We Have A Walker!

Just after his first birthday, Jack officially became a walker! He's been progressing all week, from four or five steps at a time, to today walking around the kitchen on his own! Usually, his staggering involves an object or toy in his mouth, hands, or both. He is very determined, though, and gets right back up after his little legs get away from him. This week brought some real snow to Chicago, and Ella and Jack both had a blast playing in it. Jack also enjoyed eating it. And Friday we finally got to meet our new nephew, Jace! Ella and Jack will have to wait a bit longer to see him in person, but Jeritt and I both really enjoyed snuggling him. We're so excited to have another baby in the family, and couldn't be happier for Uncle Jeff and Aunt Kristin!

A cookie date with her best buddy, Morgan.

We enjoyed a holiday tradition, lunch at the Macy's Walnut Room, with our friends.

Ella told me that Santa is her best friend. She is seeing a lot of him lately!

With some crazy cold temps this week, Ella decided it was time to hit the beach.

Putting on Moo Cow's swim trunks.

Checking some emails.

Sporting his new Bulls jersey, a birthday gift from Uncle Martin and Aunt Erin.

Eric and Abbie are back in town, visiting from D.C. It was so good to see them!

Cousin Abbie reading to Ella.

Modeling her new sweatshirt from Abbie and Eric.

Jack also got a new shirt from Abbie and Eric!

Jeritt holding our nephew, Jace.

The photos may be a bit limited this week, mostly because we didn't leave the house much. Ella finally started perking up from her flu bug mid-week, and Jack's 12-month appointment on Thursday revealed that he has ear infection. Let's hope we're on the mend now! At 17 pounds, 12 ounces, our little man is still, well, little, but definitely growing! We had a little party for him on Saturday, with more presents. He loves his new toys, almost as much as his big sister!

Jack loves his new puppy from Aunt Erin and Uncle Martin.

Undecorating the tree.

Enjoying some popcorn with our Christmas movie.

Getting ready to go see Santa.

Jack was excited to open his presents.

Bath toys from Uncle Jeff and Aunt Kristin.

Ella met Santa!

Jack is One!

Yes, this post is a little late, but we just returned from a week in Iowa last night. We had a a great Thanksgiving, and saw lots of family during our trip. The kids had a ton of fun with all of their grandparents, cousins, aunts, and uncles. Jack came down with a nasty cold, and Ella started running a fever upon our return last night, so we're glad to be home now. Today is Jack's 1st birthday! We may be stuck at home with snot and the flu, but at least he got to celebrate over the weekend with family. It should be no surprise that he loved cake, maybe even as much as his big sister, if that's possible. Next weekend we'll celebrate again, so more cake pics to follow!

Eating breakfast at Grandpa and Grandma C's house.

She didn't quite hit the mark during her first attempt with mascara.

Making pancakes.

Jack got a real hair cut from our friend, Kim.

So handsome!

Coloring with Great Grandma C (GG to Ella).

Grandpa C. and Jack.

Teaching Ella how to make pie crust.

Ava reading to Ella and Reid.

Uncle Jeff and Jack.

Aunt Kristin and Jack.

Jack loves dogs, especially Pitch and Beags.

Pitch patiently waiting for Jack to drop something.

The Bushaw boys and their boys - Jeritt, Jack, Landry, and Daric.

The original Bushaw boys - brothers Al, Randy, and Larry.

Making a Norwegian favorite, lefse, during Thanksgiving.

Baking is in their blood - Sue, Grandma, and Joan.

Ella enjoying some pumpkin pie with her second cousin, Briella.

Brecklyn and Jack playing together.

GG trying to hold a squirmy Jack.

Two cakes for the birthday boy!

He knows what to do.

Four generations!

Grandpa Al and Jack.