Bruce's Blog

Bruce Helps Clean Up

2011-06-26T10:12:00.001-04:00

Easter Morning

2011-04-30T21:11:00.001-04:00

Bruce Napping

2011-04-30T21:10:00.001-04:00

Redeemer Easter Egg Hunt

2011-04-23T13:41:00.001-04:00

Dyeing Easter Eggs

2011-04-22T14:13:00.001-04:00

Bruce's Potty

2011-04-12T17:06:00.001-04:00

Bruce got his first potty!

The National Zoo

2010-06-05T17:52:00.002-04:00

Bruce took his first trip to the Zoo this month. And not just any zoo, but the National Zoo. We saw pandas, and elephants, and lots of monkeys. It was a realllly hot day, so we were just there for a couple hours. But Uncle Rich was able to join us and we had lunch in the park before heading home. Bruce probably won't remember much about this trip, but we're looking forward to going there a lot more in the years to come.

Bruce, Dada, and elephants in the background

Dada teaching Bruce about lion tamarins

(Bruce liked these guys, they move fast)

Bruce and Uncle Rich posing at the Lion gates of the zoo

The Zoo!

Play dates with Nate

2010-06-03T20:18:00.000-04:00

Bruce and Nate have passed the 1 year mark and are now officially toddlers. The boys are growing up fast and starting to play together (some of the time). It takes a little time for them to warm up and then the mischief begins!

They start at their separate corners

And then one finds something interesting they both want

The battle of wits begins and now they start playing together

I bet you my Mickey doll you can't jump off that thing before my Dad catches you (you can't do it, trust me, I've tried)

And I don't know what they were looking at, but it never had a chance

Playdate with Stanley

2010-06-01T20:24:00.000-04:00

Bruce's friend Stanley came over for a playdate, giving Dada a good sense of what it would be like with 2 little ones (oh Lord!). Stanley was such a good baby, he was sleeping when he came over, then he took his bottle and then was ready for some play time on the mat. We pulled out Bruce's old playmat which Bruce was very happy to see too :) Bruce showed Stanley all the cool things he could do on the mat and then Bruce nicely watched as Stanley explored his new environment. Bruce was very good with Stanley, he was gentle and kept saying "Baby" and pointing at Stanley. These two will be quite a pair some day.

Just keep swimming, just keep swimming

2010-05-31T17:05:00.001-04:00

On Memorial Day, Uncle Rich and Aunt Lisa invited us to the Army Navy country club for a fun day at the pool! This was Bruce's first time in a real pool (it was a toddler pool, about 1.5' deep). He started out okay but then Dada let him go a bit on his own and he fell face first into the water. Took a while to recover from that one, but by the end of the day he was having a blast shooting the water gun at Uncle Rich and splashing Mama and Dada. Looking forward to going again soon!

Love those Little Swimmers Nemo diapers

Memorial Day Picnic ~ Trip to Delaware

2010-05-30T21:14:00.001-04:00

This Memorial Day weekend we went up to Delaware for the Annual Green Family picnic. We stayed at Uncle Tom and Aunt Kathy's house and got there in time for some yummy Casapulla's subs for lunch. Bruce will never be able to have just any ol' sub again.

That night we had dinner at Aunt Lina and Uncle Frank's house. Did I say dinner, I meant an Italian feast! Bruce loved Aunt Lina's pasta and playing with his friends Luca, Nico, and Dylan. He also enjoyed the big play room basement and kept his buddy Channing company for a little while down there. It was really nice to visit with Aunt Lina, Uncle Frank, Aunt Barbara, Mrs Stone and all the family (we missed you Kristina!). Boy how times have changed, with the next generation starting to outnumber us.

Then on Sunday we had tons of fun at the Green Family picnic. So many aunts, uncles and cousins! and our good friends Valerie, Matt and Avery also came down from Connecticut to celebrate with us. We ate fried chicken, watermelon, and lots of other great picnic treats. Thanks to cousin Audrey we also had an impromptu water balloon toss contest/fight! Bruce also got to celebrate his 1st birthday again, for the last time this year :) Some pics are below, but will post some more when we get them. (I didn't take very many with my own camera) Enjoy!

Bruce with Uncle Rich

Bruce and Pop Pop

Bruce keeping Channing company
(Channing is Uncle Rich and Aunt Lisa's pup)

Summer Time!

2010-05-16T21:05:00.003-04:00

Well, it's been a hot one this summer. To escape the heat we bought Bruce a baby pool for the backyard. He liked the splashing and water gun fishies, but was a little unimpressed by the overall experience. We'll have to try out a bigger pool some day soon. Nonetheless, the pics are too cute to resist posting:

Mama's day

2010-05-09T20:49:00.003-04:00

For Mother's Day this year we took it easy, which was a nice change of pace from the hectic start of the year we've had. Started the day with Church services and then a nice outing to Downtown DC. We met Aunt Lisa, Uncle Rich, and their puppy Channing down on the National Mall, by the Washington Monument, for a yummy cheese/crackers and hummus picnic. It was a very nice day, just before dusk. And it was a little windy so people were flying kites which was neat to watch. Bruce had fun running around the lawn and waving at everyone who walked by. We will definitely have to do it again some time, I just love our Nation's Capitol.

And some more

2010-05-07T19:43:00.001-04:00

Bruce and his sippy cup

Breakfast prunes, he loves them!

Messy Bruce, Enjoy!!!

More photos (13-15 mos)

2010-05-06T19:35:00.001-04:00

Dum-ditty Dum-ditty Dum-Dum-Dum

Bruce sitting at his play table

He can climb in and out of it, and loves playing there on his own

Oh that Mr Brown, how he moos

Upside down Bruce

Bruce overboard

Latest milestones (13-15 mos)

2010-05-05T21:15:00.005-04:00

Milestone update

Movement: Bruce is on the move and into everything now. He walks without any help and can quickly get from one side of the playground to the other. He has also started to run and likes to play chase (even when he is not being chased ;). Bruce is now able to get up the stairs on his own and climb up on the couches, much to Dada's chagrin. Unfortunately, he has not yet learned how to go down the stairs and how to get down from the couches, so there have been a few falls here and there. For those of you who have been to our home during the Bruce realm, we've been able to get rid of most of the gates. The only ones remaining are around the TV/DVD stand and between the living room and dining room (since the dining room is not yet child proofed). Bruce is allowed to venture to the front door and kitchen and likes to explore those areas. Bruce also has developed some pretty great dance moves and will sway from side to side, bounce to the beat, and stomp his feet whenever he hears a tune.

Oral/Vocal: Bruce is up to 12 teeth, having welcomed his first molars (4 in total now), and he loves to brush his teeth (let's see how long that lasts). Bruce is now officially talking. His first (and most frequently uttered) word was "cracker" (referring to the goldfish snacks we give him). He has also expanded his vocabulary to include "shoes", "puppy" (which is the word for his stuffed animal puppy), mama, dada, and our favorite: "all done" (which he sweetly says when he wants to tell us he is done eating, very helpful). He also says either dog or Duke for our doggie Duke. He is making a lot of associations beyond these words, including knowing Mickey Mouse, ball, blocks, bedtime, sit down and "back up" (referring to backing away from the TV). He definitely is understanding a lot more of what we are saying.

Eating: Bruce eats everything and anything when he is hungry. I can't think of many foods that he hasn't liked. We were afraid he didn't like tomatoes (Pop Pop's favorite food), but he will eat them now. For breakfast he will eat a full container of yogurt, some baby food fruit (pears, prunes, applesauce), scrambled eggs on Fridays, and his latest favorite, cheerios. For lunch, usually baby food fruit and/or veggies, wheat bread, grapes, crackers, and cheese. He'll also eat deli meats (turkey and ham). And for dinner he pretty much eats whatever we are having, some favorites include ham steak, corn (of course), and shells and cheese. He has also started ordering his own kids meal when we are out to dinner (usually grilled cheese). Shortly after his first birthday, we switched from formula to whole milk with no issue. It took a while for Bruce to give up the bottle, but he has now fully transitioned to the sippy cup. (Mama was very happy to clear out the bottle station and get her kitchen counter back) He switches back and forth between milk and water from the sippy. No juice yet.

Sleeping and General Health: In the last month, Bruce has transitioned from 2 naps to 1 nap (poor Dada), but somedays he'll still go for 2 naps and when he has 1 nap it can be up to 3-4 hrs. He continues to sleep well through the night, about 11-12 hours overnight. Bedtime routine has gotten much more efficient. We go in, change into his pajamas, sing a lullabye prayer and put him into the crib awake. He then falls asleep on his own without a fuss. So much better than the struggles we used to have where we'd rock him to sleep for an hour and then put him down and he'd cry himself to sleep some nights. Bruce did experience his first fever this past month, but it passed quickly (within hours he was up and running again). At his last doctor's visit (June 7th), Bruce weighed 20 lbs 14 oz and was 31.25 inches tall.

Social/Emotional: Bruce is now spending more time out and about, taking trips to the grocery store with Dada, going to the big kid playgrounds, and having playdates with his friends (though there is not much playing together yet, just playing independently in the same room). Bruce has also started expressing his emotions, good and bad. Bruce loves to blow kisses (it's adorable) and waves hello and goodbye. He motions to be picked up and gives really sweet hugs. Bruce has become attached to a few of his stuffed animals: a light blue beany puppy and another puppy blanket. He will snuggle with them when he gets sleepy. He's thrown a tantrum here and there, but after seeing that it doesn't get him anything we've quickly moved through that stage. He'll still throw a fit from time to time if you take something away or if he is generally unhappy about something, but it lasts less than a few seconds and he moves on. He also likes to play games and can stack his blocks up to 5 blocks already. He likes to think he is being naughty by hiding behind a chair, playing chase, pulling out the tupperware, or trying to stand on his play table. He has such a great little personality. So lovable and yet independent and curious to explore things on his own. He's got a little of mama and dada in him that is already coming out.

Well, that's a long update, but it covers a good chunk of time. Below are some pictures from the last month of just everyday Bruce moments (postings in 2 parts):

Bruce showing off his pearly whites

Bruce exploring new areas of the house:

He likes to welcome us at the front door. A very nice way to come home :)

The tupperware cabinet, of course

Spending time with Dada in the Gym

Shopping for groceries! B-A-N-A-N-A-S

Pop Pop's Birthday visit

2010-04-26T21:52:00.001-04:00

The last week in April we had a nice visit from Pop Pop. We celebrated his birthday with a nice dinner with Uncle Rich and Aunt Lisa and the next night Pop Pop, Robb, and Deanna went to see the opera "Marriage of Figaro" at the beautiful Kennedy Center (some pics below, it is really a breathtaking venue). This was our first time ever going to an opera and I think we were all a little surprised at how much we really liked it. The opera was in Italian with English 'super'-titles (subtitles that are up high) and the script/lyrics were quite witty.

While we were at the show, Uncle Rich came over and babysat Bruce. They had a very nice time together and Uncle Rich put Bruce to bed that night. Thanks Rich for letting us get away for the night!

Bruce and Pop Pop

The Kennedy Center

Opera House hallway

Opera House inside

Scene from Marriage of Figaro

Bruce meets Stanley

2010-04-23T21:19:00.003-04:00

Once we got back from Jamaica/Macungie, we got a chance to visit Bruce's newest friend, Stanley Ryan Carroll. We're looking forward to good times and playdates in the months to come. You're looking great Stanley!

Robb, Bruce, Liz and Stanley

Robb and Stanley

(don't get any ideas Dada!)

Bruce the Music Man

2010-04-19T22:35:00.003-04:00

Bruce has developed quite a love for music. He loves to dance and will start to bop at even the shortest commercial jingle. His current moves include: the side to side sway, the up and down bop, and my favorite the toe tapper all conducted with a huge grin on his face. We'll try to get some video of it soon. Bruce's favorite songs are the Handy Manny theme song and the Hot Diggity Dog Mickey's Clubhouse song. The Disney indoctrination continues :) And every morning he enjoys listening to the Siversun Pickups with his Dada.

While Grandpa Heier was visiting, Bruce also discovered the piano in our living room and entertained us with a little tune now and then. He's not so bad, considering he can't even see the keys yet. Enjoy some of his latest tunes:

Hanging out with Grandpa Heier

2010-04-17T22:49:00.001-04:00

After Bruce's stay in Macungie, we were lucky to have Grandpa Heier come down for an extended visit. Bruce really enjoyed the quality time he got to spend with Grandpa. Some moments are captured below but we saved one of the most memorable for the next post (aha, teaser).

Thanks Grandpa and Grandma for all your help. We look forward to your visits!

Grandpa likes the Little People Zoo too!

Whatcha doin'

Checkin the news from Wayne, NE

Hi Computer Mama and Dada?!?

2010-04-16T22:35:00.002-04:00

Thanks to the wonderful world of Technology we were able to talk to Bruce each day through Skype. I think he was a bit unsure at first as to why our voices were coming through the computer, but then he seemed to get over it and was waving at the computer (see the photos below).

We were so happy to get back and see Bruce's smiling face. We love you Bruce!

Play, Dinner, Bath, and Bed Time

2010-04-14T22:15:00.005-04:00

More fun photos from Macungie!

At the playground!

Grandpa, I'm new at this, but I think you are supposed to push me :)

TOYS!
Aunt Rhonda pulled out the kids' toddler toys and Bruce was in heaven. Bruce found a new favorite toy...Little People! Thanks to Aunt Rhonda and Uncle Kevin we now have about 50 of them (and more followed us home via snail mail). Bruce loves them and carries them around everywhere we go, one in each hand. He's particularly partial to the little Hawaiian girl. Oh Bruce, we're in trouble.

Dinner time (Boo licking his chops)

Bath Time Fun

Pajammy time

Camp Macungie!

2010-04-12T21:44:00.004-04:00

Bruce got to spend one fun-filled week in Macungie, PA with Grandma and Grandpa Heier, Aunt Rhonda, Uncle Kevin, and cousins Lena, Brett and Boo. This wasn't just like any visit though, this was Bruce's first full week away from Mama and Dada. Thanks to their support, Robb and I got away for the week with a trip to Jamaica to celebrate our 5-year wedding anniversary. We had a very nice time. We renewed our wedding vows on the beach and celebrated with a sunset dinner. But I'll admit that I missed Bruce dreadfully. Not sure he even realized we were gone. The Heiers kept him busy and well entertained. Thanks Aunt Rhonda and Grandpa for sharing the photos of the moments we missed!

Bruce and Grandpa Heier

Grandma Heier and Brett

Aunt Rhonda and Bruce

Lena and Bruce

Brett, Lena, and Bruce

Bruce and Boo

Bruce charming the neighborhood gurlies
Helloo, ladies...

Easter 2010 and Stanley's Bday

2010-04-04T22:21:00.009-04:00

Bruce woke up Easter morning with a visit from the Easter Bunny who brought him his very own handyman tools. Bruce must have told the Easter Bunny how much he likes Handy Manny (one of Bruce's favorite Disney shows) when we visited him at the Fair Oaks mall the week before (see photo below).

Bruce then suited up in his Sunday best, wearing a very handsome suit and tie handed down from his cousin Luca. Thanks Luca! And we headed off to Church to celebrate this blessed day. Christ is Risen! Indeed He is Risen!

After church, we celebrated with a very nice Easter lunch at our friends Craig and Liz Carroll's home. Liz was nearing the end of her pregnancy and the baby must have been moved by the Pastor's excellent Easter sermon as she went into labor that evening. The next day we welcomed Stanley Ryan Carroll to the world with the tune: Bruce has a friend named Stanley, Bruce has a friend named Stan. Yay! Everytime we would sing it Bruce would clap and dance. It was really cute. Looking forward to playdates in the months to come.

Holding a newborn again made us remember how tiny Bruce was. Just for fun, check him out last Easter: Easter 2009.

Bruce and the Easter Bunny

Easter Morning

Bruce in his Easter suit

Welcome Stanley!

VA Birthday Videos

2010-03-20T21:29:00.004-04:00

Happy Birthday Bruce!

Birthday Torture = Cake (everywhere), Balloons (which he loved), Party Hats (not so much)

Bruce's 1st Birthday in VA

2010-03-20T09:37:00.007-04:00

Two weeks later we celebrated Bruce's birthday at our home in Virginia with our friends and family. Bruce's buddies Noah, Nate, and Owen were there with their mamas and dadas. Uncle Kevin, Aunt Rhonda, Lena, and Brett came down from Macungie, PA and Uncle Rich came to his second stop on Bruce's Birthday Tour. Our friends The Carroll's, The Ho's, and The King's all made it to the celebration too.

There were no bounce houses this time around, but fun was had by all :) We celebrated with red balloons and decorations, lunch from Jason's Deli, a yummy funfetti cake (made with love by Aunt Rhonda and Lena), and various forms of birthday torture. Bruce held up pretty well, despite a short nap and really got into his birthday cake this time. Thanks to everyone who came out to celebrate with us!

Brett, Deanna and Bruce

Bruce's buddy Nate and his Dada

Bruce's after party
(a boy, his balloon and his bubble mower)

Adios Miami

2010-03-09T23:37:00.005-05:00

It was such a great week getting to visit with our Guerra side of the family and celebrating Bruce's birthday together. But alas we did have to say goodbye. Bruce misses his Mima but calls her regularly so they can babble back and forth in their respective languages :)

Bruce and Pop Pop

Robb, Bruce, and Mima

Adios, Te Quiero!

Playtime with Bruce, Juliana, and Nicholas

2010-03-08T22:47:00.002-05:00

While in South Florida, Bruce met up with his friends Juliana (Maria's daughter) and Nicholas (Nicole's son). Things have changed quite a bit in 8 months (link). It was a lot harder to corral the troops for a photo. Luckily I had the video camera with me so you can see them in full motion. It's so fun to see them all growing up and exploring the world.

Swinging with Luca

2010-03-07T23:36:00.005-05:00

During our visit to Florida we got to spend some extra time with cousins David, Ana, and their son Luca. Luca and Bruce played on the swings in the backyard and got to swing really high!

Birthday Videos: And Fun!

2010-03-06T13:34:00.002-05:00

Bruce bouncing on the trampoline with his cousins.

Bruce and friends in the bounce house (this one's a little slow going, recommended only for the true Bruce fan who can't get enough ;)

Mariachis (feauring Robb in a sombrero)

Birthday Videos: Food, Folks

2010-03-06T11:34:00.002-05:00

Bruce's Birthday Party Continues

2010-03-06T02:29:00.002-05:00

The next day (March 6, 2010) we celebrated Bruce's 1st Birthday at Deanna's Tia Carola's house in Miramar, FL. It was a really fun day surrounded by family and friends. Cousins David, Leo and Tio Lazaro got the roasted pig sliced up and we all ate our fill along with the yummy Cuban side dishes (black beans/rice, yuca, platanos maduros, cuban bread, salad, croquetas, and bocadillos). Waaay too much food, but oh so good. The kids had plenty of entertainment with 2 bounce houses and a trampoline (dear Lord!), a pinata that didn't fare too well, pin the nose on the clown, and of course the Mariachis! (The Mariachis were also a gift from Tio Lazaro for Robb, whose birthday was actually on the day of the party; he said he didn't mind sharing his day ;)

All in all, Bruce had a really fun day. A big THANK YOU to my godmother Carola, my Tio Lazaro and all my cousins who helped make the day extra special. It was so nice to see Bruce running around with his cousins. We love you guys!

Alex, Deanna, Bruce, Leo Jr, and Andrew
(Leo's boys and their cousin Andrew)
(Bruce's cake was made of 40 cupcakes in the shape of a 1)

Cousin Julia (Laura's daughter)

Guests: David Arch, Robb, Victoria (Leo's daughter), Deanna, Brucito, Leo Jr, Leo Sr (holding Nikolas, Heidi's son)

Bruce's great grandaunt Tete (Mima's sister), our oldest guest

Cousin Heidi with our friends Christine and Cameron Lloyd (our youngest guest!)

Deanna with upside-down Bruce and Heidi with upside down Nikolas

The Goof Troop: Sammy (cousins' cousin), Luca (David's son), Julia, Victoria, and Brucito

Bruce's 1st birthday videos

2010-03-05T23:00:00.004-05:00

A few videos from Bruce's 1st birthday.

The Guerra's sing Happy Birthday to Bruce. Lots of munchkins in this one: Alex, Sammy, Deanna w/Bruce, Leo Jr, Victoria, Andrew, and Elyse. Towards the end Julia flies in with mom Laura and Nikolas flies in with Tia Andrea.

One hour after Birthday cake, SUGAR!!

Bruce officially turned 1 yr old at 10:19 PM. We stayed up and sang him is official Happy Birthday song. Hard to believe it has been a year. We love you Bruce!

Bruce's First 1st Birthday Party! Miami style

2010-03-05T14:09:00.000-05:00

Nope that's not a typo in the title. Mr Bruce managed to somehow have four 1st Birthday parties between March 5th and May 31st. We call it the Bruce Birthday Tour: Miami (2 parties of course), Virginia, and Delaware fans came out to celebrate.

Here are some highlights from the first celebration:

Bruce's actual birthdate is March 5th. We celebrated at Mima's and Tio's house in Pembroke Pines, FL (Mima is Bruce's great-grandmother, Deanna's mom's mom). Lots of cousins came out to help us celebrate and Bruce's birthday cake was a yummy panatela (sponge cake) flan that was made by Deanna's grandaunt, Tete.

Deanna, Bruce, and Mima

Robb, Deanna, Bruce, and Pop Pop

Robb, Deanna and Bruce

Robb, Julia (Laura's daughter), Bruce, Deanna, and Laura (Deanna's cousin)

Deanna, Bruce, and the cake!

And we're back...

2010-03-01T13:55:00.001-05:00

After too long a hiatus, we are going to try to resurrect the blog with more regular postings again. The first few will be us catching up, so bear with us, but we didn't want you to miss a single Bruce moment. Enjoy!

Bruce walking!

2010-02-18T20:42:00.001-05:00

On February 6th (just after his 11 month birthday), Bruce took his first steps. He's still a bit camera shy when it comes to the walking, but we managed to catch a couple steps. Now he's walking clear across the living room. We'll try to get some more video soon.

Bruce's First Big Boy Haircut

2010-02-13T20:17:00.003-05:00

Bruce had his first big boy haircut today (2/13/10). Bruce's locks had become more than Dada's at-home salon skills could handle, so we took Bruce to Cartoon Cuts at Fair Oaks Mall for his first real trim. He did great! He sat on Robb's lap the whole time holding a Captain America doll they gave him and watching Elmo on his own private screen. It was tough for mama to see the baby curls go, but we left with them in a keepsake bag and an official First Haircut Certificate. He looks like such a little man now, sniff sniff.

Before...

And After

And During

Walking up the stairs

2010-02-11T12:14:00.002-05:00

Bruce has learned to climb the stairs all by himself. Check out the video (guest star appearance by Duke Heier)!

Bruce Being Bruce

2010-02-09T23:03:00.001-05:00

Some recent video of Bruce to share where he showcases his break dance moves, his funny lips, his love for Mickey Mouse, and his initial attempts at walking. Enjoy!

So what happened to January...

2010-02-06T21:36:00.011-05:00

Apologies to all of Bruce's fans for the lack of posts this month!

Bruce is Back!

It was quite a month in the Heier household. Bruce is a lot more active, crawling around and getting into anything he can get his hands on, making it a little harder for mom to get on the computer. Robb also had class 3 days a week throughout January, making the work-class-family-life balance a little harder for us this month. We never would have made it without our friends and family who pitched in to watch Bruce. Becky got to hone her Spanish skills with Bruce and his Bilingual Learn and Groove table. Liz and Craig got to practice their infant entertainment skills (less than 3 months till we get to meet Baby Carroll!) And poor Nhan and Dana were the unfortunate winners of the only poopy diaper that needed to be changed during babysitting hours. Sorry, I guess it was the prunes we gave him for breakfast! Bruce even got to spend a couple days with his nanny Lorraine again. He had great fun with you all.

We had another fun visit from Pop Pop this month. Pop Pop got to see how much Bruce has changed since Christmas. He's always on the move and a lot more talkative. Deanna also had a work trip this month (to New Orleans). It was tough to be away from Bruce, but he gave me the best welcome home with his first hug! Reserved just for Mama. And I brought him back a children's book about Mardi Gras that we've read a few times, Bruce loves the colors.

Major milestones this month

Movement: Bruce has learned to pull himself up and stand on his own. He walks all along the "perimeter" (hanging on to his gate or couch to get wherever he wants). He crawls quickly from one side of the room to the other and has a funny sit spin/break dance he likes to do. The most exciting milestone last month in this area was that Bruce is now able to walk up the stairs by himself. It's adorable, he's super fast. We'll try to get a video uploaded.

Oral: Bruce is up to 8 teeth (4 on top, 4 on the bottom). He always seems to be teething, so we're wondering if the molars might be next. Bruce is "talking" almost all the time. He has started associating Dada with Robb and Ball with his red ball, and even Mama with me some times. I think he knows Doggie too for Duke, but it's hard to tell what's association and what's coincidence.

Eating: Lots going on in this department. Bruce will pretty much eat anything you put in front of him and has started eating off our plates. His favorite food by far is cheese (sharp cheddar cheese!). He also really likes grapes, bread, crackers, and pasta. He's less interested in his baby food and would much rather feed himself. He still takes his formula in his bottle (about 24-28 oz) and has started holding his bottle by himself. We are slowly introducing the sippy cup, he had very little interest in it the last month (mainly he just played with it and made a mess) but he is starting to get it the last few days.

Sleeping and General Health: Bruce is sleeping well, with 2 naps a day (ranging from 45 minutes to 2 hours each) and sleeping 11-12 hours overnight. Hard to remember the days of 2-4 hours of sleep each night. We've been working on the bedtime routine. It used to take about an hour to get Bruce down to bed, we've cut back to about 30 minutes max and then putting him in the crib to soothe himself to sleep (some nights that works better than others). Bruce has still managed to avoid his first cold/illness. He's weighing about 20 lbs and his next doctor visit is next month.

Some pictures from the last month below (I lost my camera which had his official 10-month photo :( among other photos from the past month):

Closest pic we have to 10 months

Bruce, his gate and Dukie

Bruce and his red ball

Bruce standing up by his gate

(yes, that's his Woody Doll hanging from his pocket)

Bruce with this Learn and Groove

Bruce with Dada

Christmas Trip to PA

2009-12-31T21:50:00.008-05:00

On Christmas day we traveled with Pop Pop Green up to Uncle Kevin and Aunt Rhonda's in Macungie to spend the holiday with them, Brett, Lena, and Grandpa and Grandma Heier who were visiting from Nebraska. We spent a couple of days up there and have plenty of pictures to show for it:

We had a great Christmas with the family!

Buena Noche (Christmas Eve)

2009-12-26T21:20:00.000-05:00

On Christmas Eve, we celebrated Buena Noche at Aunt Lisa and Uncle Rich's house. It was so nice and made me think of Christmas memories of Buena Noche Feasts at Mima and Pipo's house in South Florida. Lisa (and Rich) prepared a yummy meal, consisting of arroz con pollo (chicken and yello rice), puerco con mojo (pork seasoned with mojo), frijoles (black beans), platanitos (plantain chips), yuca (like potatoes? in mojo sauce), and a super yummy lava chocolate cake (not cuban, but OH SO YUMMY!). It was great to spend time with Pop Pop, Lisa, Rich, Lisa's brother Sean, and their puppy Channing and foster puppy Anabelle. We look forward to continuing this tradition in the coming years. Thanks guys!

Our Hosts: Uncle Rich and Aunt Lisa

The Cook!

Bruce (held by Aunt Lisa) with Channing, Sean, and Uncle Rich

Bruce and Aunt Lisa

Dada and Bruce

Pop Pop, Bruce, and Uncle Rich

Mama, Bruce, and Dada

A Merry Christmas indeed!

2009-12-26T20:41:00.000-05:00

A Merry Christmas to all!

We had a wonderful Christmas holiday this year. Bruce was lucky enough to spend his first Christmas with all his Grandparents and his East Coast aunts and uncles, though everyone was in our thoughts, particularly as our Nebraska family was hit by a bigtime blizzard this year, Delaware was chilly, and the Miami contigent, while warm, was equally missed.

We started off Christmas week with the greatest snowfall on record for our area in the last few decades, guaranteeing Bruce's (and Deanna's) first White Christmas (as you may have seen in pictures on our blog) . It was pretty, even this Florida girl will admit. We were joined by Pop Pop on Monday and Grandma and Grandpa Heier on Tuesday and it was really nice to have everyone around. Bruce is a lot more mobile and interactive since the last time we were all together. Everyone got to see Bruce sporting his new pearly white teeth (we're up to 8 teeth now! 4 on top, 4 on the bottom) and they got to see his new moves too as he can quickly get from one side of the room to the other by either crawling or walking while hanging on to the gates or couches with one hand. He's quite a squirmy boy, doesn't sit still for very long; that's the Eleuterio (Guerra) in him.

On Christmas Eve, Grandma and Grandpa Heier headed North to Macungie to see Lena and Aunt Rhonda in their church Christmas pageant. While we, with Pop Pop, headed over to Aunt Lisa and Uncle Rich's house for a traditional Cuban Buena Noche celebration (blog post to follow).

Christmas morning, Bruce awoke to several presents under the tree left by Santa and many family and friends, of which he was most excited about the gift wrap! Lots of neat presents and beautiful Christmas cards from those near and far. Thanks to all who sent their Christmas wishes. Then on Christmas Day we headed up to Macungie to join Grandma, Grandpa, Uncle Kevin, Aunt Rhonda, Lena and Brett for Christmas Dinner (another blog post to follow).

We hope you all had a Wonderful Christmas too and that the joy of the season made its way into each of your hearts!

Robb, Deanna, Bruce and Duke on Christmas Morning

Many of you asked what Bruce thought of Christmas, well...

I think it's safe to safe he liked it!

A cozy Husker coat from Grandma and Grandpa

A UNL Piggy Bank from Aunt Becky, Uncle Chris and the 5 C's

Start saving those pennies Bruce!

A Pop Pop (I mean Woody!) doll from Pop Pop :)

And a great time with Grandma and Grandpa, thanks for visiting!

Bruce Meets Santa Claus

2009-12-24T15:00:00.000-05:00

On Thursday, December 17, we took Bruce to the Tyson's Corner mall to get his picture taken with Old Saint Nick. After waiting patiently in line for an hour, he got to meet the man:

So let me get this straight...

You come to my house and you bring me presents?

Do my parents know about this?

Christmas Decorations

2009-12-23T15:00:00.000-05:00

We pulled out the Christmas decorations a couple weeks ago and put up our Family Christmas tree. I had dreams of Bruce's eyes lighting up when he saw the tree, the ornaments, the lights! But no, it seemed like he hardly realized it was there and he would look everywhere in the room, but at the tree. Nonetheless, we made attempts to have him help put up our favorite ornaments. It was a difficult photo day, but we managed to snap a few to share with you all below.

Hope everyone has a very Merry and Blessed Christmas!

Dada putting up the Christmas Tree Star

Bruce and Dada hanging Robb's favorite ornament

An Angel with a bell that reads 'Every time a bell rings an angel gets their wings'

From It's a Wonderful Life (Robb's favorite Christmas movie)

Bruce and Mama hanging Deanna's favorite ornament

A butterfly of course ;)

Our little reindeer trying to run away instead of posing with the tree

Robb, Bruce, and Duke posing in front of the tree

Bruce sneaking a peek at the tree when Mama wasn't looking

but Grandma Angel was watching!

Thanksgiving Visitors!

2009-12-22T15:00:00.000-05:00

We had lots of visitors Thanksgiving week, reminded us of all the wonderful people in our lives that we are thankful for. We are so blessed to have so many family and friends who have supported us through the years. We love you all!

The week started off with a visit from Pop Pop! On Sunday, we had a pre-Thanksgiving dinner at the Majestic with Pop Pop, Uncle Rich, and Aunt Lisa. Bruce had a little bit of turkey to get ready for the Big Day. Bruce and Pop Pop had a nice time hanging out together and Bruce really loves his new Learn and Groove table, he plays with it every day.

On Wednesday we said our goodbyes to Pop Pop and an hour later we welcomed the Macungie Heiers (Kevin, Rhonda, Lena and Brett) and later that day we welcomed our good friends Matt, Valerie and their daughter Avery who drove down from Connecticut. Since the only food in the house that night was reserved for Thanksgiving Day, we ventured out to the Tysons Corner Mall (our first trip that week) for some dinner and playtime at the Mall playground. We even got to ride around on the train!

Bruce, Lena and Brett at the playground

Lena, Deanna, Avery and Brett on the Train

Robb, Uncle Kevin and Bruce eatin' Coldstone Ice Cream

Avery, Valerie and Matt

(Avery showing her Bubblegum Blue tongue!)

And we ended the night with a Seussical bedtime story

(Avery, Robb, Brett, Lena, Uncle Kevin and Bruce)

And then there was Black Friday! Now for those who didn't know this about me, shopping is pretty much my least favorite thing to do...ever. But Valerie knew just how to get me on board because the thing I pretty much love most is Tradition! So we carried on with a Horsley tradition to venture out on Black Friday. Here in Northern Virginia, Black Friday starts at midnight, so there we were 11:59 PM on Thanksgiving Night back at Tyson's Corner Mall. Nothing in particular to shop for, but there I was. I'll admit, there were some good deals. A nice winter coat for Bruce (original price $54, on sale for $14). But once we hit that 2 AM mark, I was ready to drop. It was still quite an experience! I could not believe how many people were there. And boy can Valerie and Rhonda shop, you go Girls! Now I can say I've had the full Thanksgiving experience.

Thanksgiving 2009

2009-12-21T15:00:00.000-05:00

Better late than never right!

We spent Bruce's First Thanksgiving at home, hosting dinner for 11 guests plus the 3 of us. We were blessed to have Kevin, Rhonda, Lena, and Brett, our friends Matt, Valerie and their daughter Avery, and some of Deanna's family from Delaware Aunt Carole, Uncle Tom, Aunt Kathy, and Audrey come for dinner. Robb again prepared a wonderful meal consisting of a full bird plus another turkey breast, mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes, stuffing, salad, rolls, and of course, corn! And we were also pleased to have THREE pumpkin pies, thanks to Aunt Kathy and Giant. The cook is a bit of a pumpkin pie purist; the only dessert allowed was pumpkin pie. But Aunt Carole luckily snuck in some petit fours too!

We continued a few Green Family traditions including the Thank You tree, where each guest and guests abroad as well (Pop Pop and Grandpa and Grandma Heier contributed too) write what they are thankful for on a paper leaf and we tape the leaves to our Thank You tree. A special thank you to Lena, Brett, and Avery for their help making the tree and leaves. We also kept a tradition from last year of making turkey hand placemats, we had some pretty interesting ones!

What did Bruce think of Thanksgiving you ask? Well, dinner fell right at nap time so he actually slept through dinner, but once he got up he had his taste of turkey and sweet potatoes, yum!

It was a really nice day and it was great to spend time with everyone. Unfortunately, our hands were a little full that day, so we didn't get many pictures, but Uncle Tom will surely have some nice ones we can post later on.

Robb carving the turkey

Our First Thanksgiving as a Family

Snowpocalypse 2009

2009-12-20T21:49:00.008-05:00

Sorry for the blog hiatus. It's always so hard to keep up at this time of year, seems even tougher this year since we want to spend every free minute we get with Brucie.

But we had to write to let everyone know that we survived Snowpocalypse 2009! Between late Friday night and late Saturday night, we received between 16 and 20 inches of snow in our area and we are still shoveling our way out. Now, I have very little perspective on such matters, but even Robb admitted that this was the most snow he had seen fall in a 24 hour period. Thank goodness it happened over the weekend so we could watch the lovely white fluffies fall throughout the day and cover all the cars, trees, and everything outside without needing to commute to work. Unfortunately we did miss out on the Kings Holiday party and Christmon decorating at Church, but hope to see you all soon after the holidays.

Bruce's first snowfall was actually a couple weeks back, on Saturday, December 5th. A few pictures from his first adventure with snow are below too. This time Bruce stayed warm inside with Mama, while Dada went out to shovel the snow. It took 3+ hours to get the cars out. But what was nice was that all the neighbors got out around the same time and helped each other shovel the common areas. It was neat to watch everyone working together. And Robb really got a workout (he even wore is weight belt for support, thanks Uncle Darrel for the advice!). Duke was not a fan of the white fluffy stuff, but he made his way through to do his business. When you gotta go, you gotta go.

Enjoy the pictures of our Winter Wonderland below!

Bruce's first time in the snow (Dec 5th)

Hmm, this is different

The taste test

(hopefully the neighborhood dogs were not here already)

Bruce's snow angel

Snowpocalypse 2009

(December 19th)

Don't worry Bruce, we won't make you go out this time!

Where's Duke?!?

There he is!

Bruce is 9 months old!

2009-12-06T18:56:00.008-05:00

Bruce is 9 months old!
What a cute little reindeer

Well, it's been an interesting month. This one felt longer somehow ;) Bruce continues to grow bigger each day and is always getting into something (hence the transformation of our living room into a prison yard).

Movement: Bruce continues to be very active. He can crawl very quickly across the room, occasionally distracted by his toys, but always finding his way to Mama and Dada on the couch. One night, he even crawled from one side of the room to the other, when Deanna said 'come to Mama.' He is also starting to walk by himself while holding onto his gates and the couches. He can very easily pull himself up to standing position and has also now figured out how to sit back down gracefully.

Oral: Vocal development is pretty much the same. Bruce continues to babble, particularly when he is sleepy. He has a not so nice scream when he gets bored, that we are trying to put the kibosh on. He likes to amuse himself by playing with his lips and making a funny noise.

Lots more teeth to show off. Bruce now has 4 fully emerged teeth on the bottom, and just this week has cut through 3 teeth on the top. Needless to say, it's been a long, painful week for all 3 of us (short naps, fussy eating, and generally just not happy about anything).

Eating: Bruce's feeding schedule is weighed more heavily on solids now, and he seems to prefer finger foods to his baby food, but mainly still getting baby food. His schedule consists of a whole container of fruit with oatmeal for breakfast (stage 2), a whole container of veggies for lunch (stage 2-3), and various baby food meat/veggie combinations for dinner. He also continues to get about 30 oz of formula each day. His new finger foods include egg yolk, sharp cheddar cheese, turkey, pasta, peach yogurt, apple cinnamon puffs, sweet potato puffs, and banana puffs. He also has tried a few new baby food combinations: banana yogurt, turkey/sweet potato and spaghetti (which he was not so fond of). It's gotten a little tougher to feed Bruce his solids some days, and we can already sense the behavioral testing starting. He occasionally will purse his lips and he likes to look at everything around him except the person trying to feed him. There's also been some arm and leg flailing that has resulted in flying baby food. Usually, he eventually eats it all, but it's a bit more trying these days. We've learned that making him laugh or cry helps the process (whatever it takes to get that mouth open).

Sleeping and General Health: We've still been pretty lucky in this department. Bruce tends to go down for bed around 9PM and gets up between 7:30 and 8:30 AM. He occasionally wakes up during the night, but usually can soothe himself back to sleep. Bruce has still managed to avoid his first cold. He is now fully vaccinated for the swine flu and regular seasonal flu. He has his 9-month check up tomorrow, so stay tuned for the results there.

Here are some photos from the past month to share. (We got behind on a few family visits and holiday moments, but hope to catch up soon)

Bruce in his high chair

Bruce watching President Obama

(this one's for you Aunt Rhonda :)

Also, notice the new furniture in our living room!

Bruce's new toy from Pop-Pop

I highly recommend this one, it's the Leapfrog Learn and Groove Musical Table (English and Spanish)

Bath Time!

Dada and Bruce talking Gameday strategy

Brucito and Mama

Gameday with Nate

2009-11-24T21:04:00.003-05:00

We spent last Saturday with the Beck Family, getting the boys vaccinated (H1N1 booster) and teaching them the basics of football. It was so much fun watching Bruce and his buddy Nate interact with each other and play with each other's toys (of course, the other kids toys always seem cooler). Tough game ending for Nate's team (Michigan), but a good day for Nebraska (clinched the Big 12 North!). The boys then practiced a few football moves, some day this duo will be unstoppable on the field.

The boys post-vaccination, are you ready for some football!

Robb and Bruce and Neil and Nate

The boys come up with their secret handshake

Bruce exhibiting the horse collar move, 15 yards!

Nate trying to watch the game

Post-game: Nate still says, GO BLUE!

Feast O' Plenty!

2009-11-21T11:44:00.000-05:00

Our friends Dana and Nhan hosted a yummy feast with THREE turkeys (one traditional oven baked, one smoked, and one fried). Bruce had a really fun time playing with the gang and meeting a new doggie, Owen. He even got a taste of the traditional turkey in preparation for Thanksgiving. He was a real trooper and stayed up past his bedtime

Dana, The Lovely Hostess

Nhan, Our Host

Bruce is ready for the feast!

(Bruce with Liz and Nhan)

Feast O' Plenty!

Bruce with Nhan, also pictured Liz and Craig's mom Nancy

Bruce and Dana

Bruce and Craig

Bruce and Liz

Bruce with his new toy

Thank you Nancy!

Bruce's First Haircut

2009-11-19T20:23:00.000-05:00

On Saturday, November 14th, Bruce got his first haircut! While Bruce's locks were loved by many, it was a bit overdue in mama's opinion. Here's a few photos from the big event.

The "Before" Photo

Dada did the honors

Mohawk!

And After

Bruce Tries Eggs

2009-11-17T21:31:00.001-05:00

The pictures probably say it all. Bruce tried his first fried egg yolk. He was a bit baffled by the consistency and gummed it for several minutes. We're not 100% sure if he ended up eating it, spitting it out, or whether it just complete disintegrated in his mouth. But hey it's a first!

Playdate with Noah

2009-11-15T01:00:00.000-05:00

Last weekend we headed up to Gaithersburg, MD to visit with our friends Trisha, Gunther and Noah Boekhoudt. Noah just celebrated his 1-year birthday! Can't believe how fast time has flown by.

We met up at our favorite "local" Cuban restaurant (Cuban Corner) where Bruce had his first taste of a croqueta de jamon, yum! He pretty much made the same confused face he always does when we give him new food.

We then stopped by The Boekhoudt's house and spent some time in Noah's playroom, which was like heaven on earth for Bruce. Noah very nicely shared all his toys with Bruce and even showed him how to take a spin in his speedster. Thank you Noah for being such a good friend to Bruce. We love you!

Bruce, Noah, and Trisha in Noah's playroom

The boys playing with each other's toys

Bruce: Mom, do you see this!

Noah showing Bruce how to handle this puppy

Bruce: I love this place!

Noah: Can someone get this kid his own toys, please

Just Because

2009-11-12T20:29:00.003-05:00

Bruce is 8 months old!

2009-11-05T21:16:00.008-05:00

Bruce is 8 months old
watch out world!

Bruce is now 8 months old and what an incredible "leap" he has made this past month.

Movement: The biggest news this month has been that Bruce is on the move. Bruce quickly went from a pre-crawl at his 7 month birthday to crawling, climbing, and standing on his own (holding on to the couch or the gates), and last week he took his first 2 steps on his own while holding on to the couch. He seems to prefer standing to sitting and will pull himself up at any given moment and has learned to stand up in his crib too! He's also learned the hard way that what goes up, must come down. So there's been a few falls, usually on his bottom but also a few times on his noggin.

Oral: Bruce has also been testing out his vocal cords. He often utters dada and the occasional mum, but his latest sound is a not so lovely growl. My description can not do it justice really. Am I a bad mom if I say it sounds like an exorcism?!? my little monster. He also has a very sweet babble that he does when he is sleepy, kind of like he is trying to sing along to his lullaby.

Bruce also had his 3rd tooth break through (facing him, it's to the right of the center two teeth). We think its emergence was aided by one of his falls, but its there and pushing out more and more each day.

Eating: Bruce continues to be a good eater, eating solids twice a day (fruit/oatmeal for lunch and veggies for dinner) and drinking about 27-33 oz of formula each day. Vegetables, and still carrots, remain his favorite. New foods he has tried this month: peaches and corn (mixed with sweet potatoes). We also tried giving him a chicken noodle baby food (his first meat) and he was not happy about that. The first time I actually saw him spit his food out on purpose. So not ready for that yet. Bruce hasn't really taken to his sippy cup, just teethed on it and played with it. The other day we tried to use just an open plastic cup and he seemed to like drinking water that way, so maybe we'll skip the sippy cup for now.

Sleeping and General Health: Not too much new in these categories. Bruce is sleeping pretty well through the night. Strangely, he pushed his bedtime back to 10PM the week before daylight savings, so now with the time change he's back to his 9PM bedtime. He sleeps through most nights to about 7-8AM. Dada has been a real trooper, getting up with Bruce and getting him ready for the day. Bruce has still managed to allude his first cold (being at home with us I'm sure has helped). Bruce received his booster shot for the seasonal flu and his first dose of the H1N1 (swine flu) vaccination.

Bruce playing with his blocks

Bruce still loves his jumperoo
(check out my Emory hat Aunt Becky)

Bruce's new swing
(he outgrew the old one he loved)

Bruce's newest toy: a musical walker

Bruce after pulling himself up on his gate

Bruce standing up in his crib in his Hamburglar sleeper

The Bruce Grrrrrowl!

Happy Halloween

2009-10-31T22:02:00.004-04:00

Happy Halloween from Tigger!

We celebrated Bruce's first Halloween in Old Town Alexandria with Uncle Rich and Aunt Lisa. We got Bruce, Duke, and Channing all dressed up and headed out for a stroll around town.

Duke the Fire Chief

Channing as Captain Jack Sparrow

Uncle Rich, Silly Mama Clown, and Tigger Bruce

Aunt Lisa (Hermione), Uncle Rich, Dada (Husker fan), Bruce (Tigger), Channing and Duke

Pop Pop Comes to Visit

2009-10-30T21:14:00.000-04:00

From October 19th-22nd, Pop Pop got a break from work and came up for a visit. He couldn't believe how much Bruce had grown and all the new things he was doing. It was really nice to see you! Looking forward to your next trip.

Pop Pop and Bruce, Good morning!

Pop Pop got to see Bruce crawl

And Pop Pop got to read Bruce a story

Until Bruce took over!

(he may look like his father, but he's got a lot of his mama in him too)

Crawling, Climbing, Standing, and Falling

2009-10-27T20:33:00.000-04:00

Bruce started crawling earlier this month (video) and now that he is on the move things have gotten pretty "exciting" around here. Soon after he realized how fun it is to get around on his own, he started climbing over his toys, climbing over us, and he even just climbed up his first step. He also has discovered that he can pull himself up to a standing position and will grab anything in sight (stable or not!) to pull himself up.

In an attempt to babyproof, the gates have gone up and every corner of the room is now covered in pillows, but unfortunately what stands up, must fall down, so there's been a few new bumps and bruises to show. Bruce took a major fall last week that was particularly traumatizing (to his mother at least). While going through our standard bedtime routine, Bruce was on his changing table and in the split second that Deanna turned around to get his diaper Bruce dove off the table, falling about 3 feet. There was the expected screaming and crying to follow (by both Bruce and Mom), but once we checked that all limbs were still functioning, Bruce quickly soothed himself by taking his bottle and falling asleep. We woke him up about 15-20 mintues later to make sure all was okay and he was crawling, babbling, and playing with his toys as if nothing had ever happened. We're still watching him carefully to make sure all is well, but he has basically forgotten the whole drama (even though we will not!) and has just a little bruise above his left eye (this kid is unbreakable). More experienced moms have warned us that this is just the first of many traumatizing falls, so we are in for some fun times ahead!

Bruce about to take off

Bruce and his climb and play

Bruce pulling himself up

Look at me Mom!

Fall Fun in Macungie

2009-10-25T19:57:00.006-04:00

Last weekend (October 17th and 18th) we ventured North to Macungie for some Fall fun with Uncle Kevin, Aunt Rhonda, and cousins Lena and Brett. We were also very excited that our good friend from graduate school Valerie and her daughter Avery were able to join us. We had a lot of fun playing and decorating and carving pumpkins. We also got to go to Church on Sunday to see Lena receive her very own Bible in a ceremony for her 3rd grade Sunday School class. It was such a nice weekend. Can't wait to see you all again at Thanksgiving!

Bruce with Aunt Rhonda, Lena, Uncle Kevin and Brett

Bruce with Valerie

Does this look like trouble or what!?!

Brett, Bruce, Lena and Avery

Bruce loves him some Lena

Hanging out with Lena

Decorating pumpkins

Brett and Lena

Avery and Brett

Bruce's first pumpkin

(otherwise called How to Carve a Pumpkin)

Pick your design

Draw out your design on the pumpkin

Carve out the top and scoop out the seeds

Carve out the face

Name your pumpkin and Enjoy!

(his name is Jack Oliver Lantern, Nice job Dada :)

Bruce is officially on the move!

2009-10-11T16:52:00.007-04:00

Bruce had a very exciting week last week, hitting a few major milestones including crawling, waving and finally saying Da-Da! Here's a couple videos to share:

Bruce crawling away (he was chasing Duke)

Bruce waving, crawling and he throws in a Da-Da here and there

(warning: the video upload is bad...it's kind of in slow motion and the sound is a little off (so you might want to mute the sound); you can pretty much stop watching around 2 min)

Playdate with Nate ~ Bruce's first park

2009-10-08T12:40:00.004-04:00

September 20th was a beautiful day in Northern Virginia, and after Church we decided to go to a local park with our friends, Neil, Kate, and Nate Beck. After a stroll around the parkgrounds, we laid out some blankets and enjoyed the "almost Fall" day, watching the boys roll around and play with the ball. Bruce got to experience his first playground swing and his first time touching grass! (had to keep him from eating it) Thanks to the Beck's, Bruce may get out of the house once in a while ;) We look forward to lots more fun days at the park!

Bruce's first swing ride!

While uncertain of this little escapade at first (as seen in the photo), Bruce LOVED the swing, laughing and giggling the whole time.

Bruce's buddy Nate

The boys playing at the park

(pictured: Robb, Bruce, Nate and Neil)

Nate and his mama Kate

Nate and his dada Neil

Robb and Bruce at the park

Mom, please stop taking pictures, you're embarassing me in front of Nate

Bruce is 7 months old!

2009-10-05T21:40:00.001-04:00

Bruce is 7 months old!

Bruce is 7 months old today and he got to celebrate by spending all day with Dada and taking an end of the day walk with Mama and Dukie. It's been a very fun month as Bruce has begun exploring and interacting with the world around him. He has some new developmental toys, including some bright-colored stacking blocks and rings, and continues to love his jumperoo and playing peek-a-boo. He has gotten very good at sitting up by himself, grabbing objects (including mama's hair and necklace) and has started to be able to bring food and his sippy cup to his mouth.

Eating: Bruce continues his formula and is now eating Stage 2 solids twice a day (lunch and dinner). His favorite food, by far, is carrots, but he also likes squash and sweet potatoes. He still eats his greens (peas and green beans), but likes those a little less lately (the consistency is a little different/thicker for those). He's made some progress on the fruits and has now eaten applesauce, bananas, prunes and mango, usually mixed with oatmeal for lunch. He has also had a couple tiny pieces of bread and has made attempts at drinking from his sippy cup (though with little success).

Sleeping: Bruce has become a very good sleeper. He sleeps about 10-11 hours each night and falls asleep pretty well on his own (though sometimes Mama just can't resist rocking and singing him to sleep still). He now sleeps on his stomach, which we know is a no-no, but he always turns himself over, so it's a losing battle. He also likes to fall asleep holding on to things, be it his rings in his carseat or the bars of his crib. We still use the white noise machine to help him fall asleep, but have stopped running it over night because we heard it can affect their hearing. Just recently, we dropped the mattress in his crib down to the next setting when we found him pulling himself up in his crib one morning.

Pre-crawl: Bruce gets closer and closer to crawling every day, though we are certainly not in a rush for him to become fully mobile. He has gotten very good at holding himself up on his knees and hands or elbows and rocks front and back, but hasn't quite got the forward motion down yet. Nonetheless, he quickly gets from one side of the room to the other by scooting and rolling, and always goes straight for the electrical cords and/or Duke's bed (oh boy!). Just a matter of days I bet till he gets it all down (it's harder than you think!).

Oral: Bruce has become very vocal lately, trying out different sounds like ba-ba and ma-ma; we're still trying da-da. He's also been found singing himself to sleep and singing in church, very cute. The biggest development in this area was the emergence of Bruce's two lower, front teeth. They've made their way through his gums and are probably about halfway out, it is really cute.

General Health/Stats: Bruce has still managed to avoid his first cold, we'll see how he makes it through flu season. Next week he heads to the pediatrician for his flu shot booster and we'll see if the swine flu vaccine is availble in our area yet. Just hopped on the scale and he's now weighing in at a sturdy 18lbs.

I think that hits the major developments of the month. Enjoy some photos!

Bruce in his high chair
(hiding his teeth)

Bruce playing with his rings

Bruce playing peek-a-boo with his bumper book

Mama and Bruce reading Mr Brown Can Moo, Can You?

Bruce playing peek-a-boo with Mama behind my computer
(poor boy, don't worry inPractice is almost over)

Bruce taking a nap

(this is his new, favorite sleeping position: head up against the side/corner of the pack-n-play or crib, butt in the air, legs crossed. Give it a try, it's surprisingly comfortable)

Bruce hanging on to his crib bars while sleeping

Dada feeding Bruce his carrots

Yum, carrots!

Okay Mama, are we done with the pictures!

Play by FoxSaver®

Thank you Lorraine!

2009-10-02T22:46:00.006-04:00

Today was Bruce's last day with his nanny Lorraine. It was really sad to say goodbye, but we hope that we will get to see Lorraine and her son Ian again some day for a play date. Bruce loved spending time with Lorraine and Ian, and would look up to Ian like a big brother (really sweet). Ian would read books to Bruce and make silly faces so Bruce would giggle. We are so grateful for all of Lorraine's help and advice the last few months and will never forget her.

We now enter a new phase of childcare...Daddy Daycare! Robb's job at Lockheed ended this week so he will be staying home with Bruce for the next few months. Robb is looking forward to spending more time with his little boy, and helping him continue to grow up big and strong.

Bruce and Lorraine

Lorraine, Ian and Bruce at Breakfast time

Ian and Bruce Playtime

Bruce's first teeth

2009-09-30T09:40:00.002-04:00

Well, after about 3 months of "excessive drooling", Mr Bruce, finally cut his first teeth! Bruce's first two front, bottom teeth emerged on September 14th. That day and the day before we noticed he kept sticking his tongue out at us, and figured it was just something new he was trying out. Turns out it was because there was something new in the way. He fought through the pain, like a real champ (as usual), taking shorter naps and a couple bouts of fussiness and a couple doses of tylenol, but he made it through (and so did we). They haven't fully emerged, but you can see the tips. Best picture we could get is below (might need to zoom in).

UNL Campus

2009-09-28T09:40:00.013-04:00

After our trip to the fair, we went to walk around the University of Nebraska campus where Dada, Uncle Kevin, and Aunt Rhonda went to college.

Grandpa Heier and Pop Pop Green strolling on the UNL campus.

Bruce feels the love.

We walked all around the stadium:

Saw the statue of Tom Osborne and Brook Berringer:

And somebody left the gate open:

Bruce is pumped:

Wake up, boy! This doesn't happen everyday!

Bruce practicing his 2030 Heisman pose.

One of the greatest moments of Dada's life: standing on the Cornhusker's field with his little boy.

Nebraska and all its wonder

2009-09-26T09:00:00.001-04:00

We had such a great time on our trip to Nebraska, visiting Grandma, Grandpa and all our Heier family. We also had some time to see all that is Nebraska. And while I can't believe we did not get a single picture of Bruce in a cornfield (which frankly would be like a picture of Bruce in front of a Starbucks in Northern Virginia), we did get a lot of fun photos of other fun Nebraska landscapes, including pics from the Nebraska State Fair. Enjoy!

Deanna's cement chicken!

Ok, this one needs some explanation. Wayne, Nebraska (Robb's hometown) is the site of the "internationally famous" Wayne Chicken Show (http://www.chickenshow.com). We even saw it on the CNN Bottom line before. The Chicken Show is famous for its Cluck Off competition, where contestants compete for the best Chicken impersonation, and the winner of which used to go on the Johnny Carson Show (Carson himself being from Norfolk, Nebraska). The Chicken Show also includes a Cement Chicken Auction, which I have wanted to partake in for the past couple years, but could not figure out how to get a 50 lb chicken on the plane ride home. Well, this year Uncle Darrel and Aunt Betty made a bid and bought me my very own cement chichken, whohoo! Pictured below. Despite Robb's protesting, I've got a prominent spot picked out in our living room. Can't wait to get it home!

Bruce wants a Runza!

Runza (http://www.runza.com/about) is a restaurant that started in Lincoln, Nebraska (with franchises in Nebraska, Kansas, Colorado, and Iowa). They have their own unique "sandwich" called a Runza that consists of ground beef, cabbage, and spices wrapped completely in a dough bun. Pictured here is Bruce reaching for his first Runza.

Let's go to the Fair!

During our trip we went to The Nebraska State Fair in Lincoln, Nebraska (possibly the last time it will be held in Lincoln as it moves to Grand Island next year). We took a lot of photos at the Fair, mainly because Deanna had the camera and had never been to a real State Fair. I learned so much!

Lena, Brett, Robb and Bruce at the Fair

Bruce and Lena at the Fair

Bruce sees his first tractor!

Bruce (and Deanna's) first Combine

($250K, at least, for one of these puppies; it was huge!)

Prize-winning Vegetables

Bruce with a giant pumpkin

Oh, and did I mention The Fair Food...

Pop Pop and his hot beef Sundae

What is a hot beef sundae you ask? Well, you take a scoop of mashed potatoes covered in hot brown gravy with yummy roast beef, and sprinkle it with cheese and a cherry tomato on top

Robb couldn't resist the Fried Twinkie (none for Bruce yet)

Bruce's first encounter with farm life

Bruce sees his first cow

First baby goat

First baby piglet (just 1 day old)

And so many side shows....

The Frog Jumping Show

The racing pigs (Deanna's favorite)

Brett with the Budweiser Clydesdale horses

(this one was named Duke)

High School band on parade

and Carnival rides

(pictured: Grandpa Heier and Uncle Kevin holding Brett)

All in all, a great adventure of a day!

Can't wait to go back :)

Thinking of you Grandma Angel

2009-09-25T12:15:00.003-04:00

Today is 4 years since Bruce's Grandma Angel (Deanna's mom) passed away of an agressive cancer that went undiagnosed. Looking at my beautiful baby boy I'm reminded of something my mom had said to me before she died, that she always felt that my brother and I turned out so well because we had a Guardian Angel in my Grandmom Green always watching over us (one of my grandmothers had passed away before I was born too). Bruce is lucky to have Grandma Angel as his Guardian Angel and we are lucky that she was up there to pick out our precious little boy. We are so blessed.

We love you mom and know that you are always with us!

Maritza Green (Grandma Angel)

1952 - 2005

The Wilsons!

2009-09-23T12:33:00.005-04:00

During our trip to Nebraska we were excited to get the chance to visit with our good friends Sam and Sarah Wilson and their new addition, Leo!

Bruce and Leo had the same due date, but the boys ended up being born about 3 weeks apart, due to Bruce's early arrival and Leo's later arrival. I can still remember our last trip to Nebraska, last August, when Sarah and I both "surprised" each other with our big news that we were both pregnant. And then to find out we had the same due date, still can't believe it. Knowing Robb and Sam, they timed it purposefully, weirdos. It's been really fun to share the experience with Sam and Sarah as our boys enter each new stage at the same time.

Some fun photos from our visit below. It's tough to get two little boys to look and smile at the camera at the same time! It was such a nice visit, we really miss you guys. Kisses to Leo!

Introducing Mr. Leo Wilson

The boyz!

(Bruce on left, Leo on right)

Bruce and Leo on the playmat

(why are the other kid's toys always cooler)

Leo practicing standing

(He's really sturdy on his legs, Go Leo!)

Sarah and Leo

Sam preparing for twins next time ;)

Robb, Bruce, Sam, Sarah and Leo

Uncle Kevin, Aunt Rhonda, Lena and Brett in NE too

2009-09-21T12:00:00.001-04:00

Luckily it worked out where Uncle Kevin (Robb's brother), Aunt Rhonda, Lena and Brett were out in Nebraska while we were visiting too. So Bruce got to spend time with all his Heier aunts, uncles, and cousins. It had been a couple years since we were all together, so we took advantage of the chance to take some Heier Family Photos. Thanks to Grandma and Grandpa Heier for hosting us all.

Bruce wearing Uncle Kevin's hat (too cute!)

Bruce with Uncle Kevin

Bruce watch out, Uncle Kevin turns into...

THE TICKLE MONSTER!!

Aunt Rhonda with Bruce and Brett

(double trouble)

Lena playing peek-a-boo with Bruce

Robb and Brett

(future's so bright!)

Deanna and her nieces, Lena and Cassie

(I just love my nieces to pieces)

Bruce Meets Aunt Becky, Uncle Chris and the 5 C's!

2009-09-19T22:18:00.004-04:00

While in Nebraska we got to spend some time with Bruce's Aunt Becky (Robb's sister), Uncle Chris, and cousins (the 5 C's) Chris Jr, Cassie, Christian, Cody, and Corey. We really enjoyed seeing you all. Some highlights from the trip included:

Uncle Chris's tour of Grandma and Grandpa's front room (with the Husker altar, and lots of fun things to break, uh oh).
Ladies lunch out with Becky, Cassie, Rhonda, Lena, Barb and I (Deanna). I was excited to hear about Cassie's great achievements with clarinet, volleyball, and in school.
Christian's football practice, boy was he fast! Every play called seemed to be the "hand off to Christian" play.
Hearing about Chris Jr's great high school football game (go Wayne Blue Devils!). You're both going to play for Nebraska right guys :)
And Cody's babysitting night. Thanks Cody, Bruce had a lot of fun with you!

We miss you guys and can't wait to see you again soon!

Aunt Becky, Christian, Cassie and Bruce

Bruce, Deanna and Uncle Chris

Bruce and Cassie

(Cassie was impressed by Bruce's flexibility)

Bruce and Christian

(dude, they let you where that jacket in Nebraska? Notice Bruce's disapproval)

Bruce and Cody (the babysitter)

Corey, Cassie, Cody, and Christian with Bruce

Bruce's cousins: Chris Jr, Christian, Brett, and Cody

Bruce Meets Uncle Jerry

2009-09-15T13:36:00.000-04:00

During our stay in Wayne, Bruce's Uncle Jerry (Robb's oldest brother) came up from Norfolk to meet his new little nephew.

Great Aunts and Pretty Good Uncles

2009-09-14T13:04:00.000-04:00

During our trip to Nebraska Bruce got to meet his Great Aunts and "Pretty Good" Heier Uncles :)

Bruce charming his Great Aunt Betty

Bruce with Aunt Betty and Uncle Darrel (Grandpa's brother)

note my awesome cement chicken in the background, you'll see a close up later

Bruce visiting Aunt Twila (Grandpa's sister) and Uncle Rowan (not pictured)

Hope you're feeling better Uncle Rowan, glad you don't have swine flu

While in Lincoln, NE, we visited with Uncle Harlan (Grandpa's brother) and Aunt Shirley. Fun Bruce fact: Lincoln was almost Bruce's name except it lost out in the potential teasing category when we came up with Stinkin' Lincoln (couldn't get it out of our minds, we laughed all night) Fun family fact: Uncle Harlan is a retired Lutheran minister and married Robb and Deanna and also married Grandma and Grandpa Heier.

Bruce with Uncle Harlan

Bruce with Aunt Shirley

Nebraska! First visit to Grandma and Grampa's house

2009-09-13T10:31:00.001-04:00

On Saturday, August 29th Bruce took to the skies for a second time for a week-long trip to Dada's homeland, Nebraska! We had such a nice time visiting Grandma and Grandpa Heier and all Bruce's aunts, uncles, cousins and new friends. We'll post some pics from our trip each day this week. Bruce says THANKS Grandma and Grandpa, and we miss you!

Bruce's first time on Nebraska soil

Bruce at Grandma and Grandpa's house
eating a nice home cooked meal with corn of course!

Bruce hanging with Grandma, so sweet.

Watching football with Grandpa, Go Big Red!

Bruce, Grandpa Heier and Pop Pop watching TV
must have been something interesting

Bruce rolling around on Grandma and Grandpa's floor
he rolled around more than he ever does at home, he loved it

They have carrots in Nebraska too, yum!

The indoctrination begins

My lil farm boy

Bruce is 6 months old!

2009-09-09T21:01:00.003-04:00

Bruce is 6 months old!

soak it up :)

Bruce continues to be an absolute joy. It's so hard to believe 6 months have already passed. Bruce spent his 6-month birthday in Nebraska, celebrating his mama's 31st birthday :) We had a really nice time, visiting Grandma and Grandpa Heier, lots of aunts, uncles, cousins and friends, and spending time with Pop Pop too. Fun photos from the trip still to come.

Bruce had his 6-month pediatrician visit today. The doctor said he's doing great! Here's his stats: Height 25.5 inches (20th percentile); Weight 16 lbs, 14.2 oz (25th percentile); Head circumference 17.5 inches (60th percentile). He received his final immunizations for polio, pneumococcal disease, diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis, rotavirus, and Hib. They also gave him his flu shot which he has to go back next month for a booster shot. His next visit will be at 9 months.

Bruce is a very happy baby, giggling whenever anyone laughs around him or tickles him. He also likes to play peek-a-boo and gives a funny little giggle if you try to "scare" him by saying "Boo!" (he particularly likes it when his cousin Lena does this).

Bruce's favorite new activity is his jumperoo! Bruce wil jump and jump for an hour or more. One day, he even fell asleep in it. He jumped for a good hour, then laid his head down, fell asleep for about 20 minutes, then before he was even fully awake he started jumping again. We have a hysterical video of it I hope we can eventually upload (our internet connection just won't cooperate with video upload anymore, very frustrating). His jumperoo is also teaching him fun animal and food words, like yellow corn and red tomato.

Bruce sat up by himself for the first time last week! He wobbled a little bit, but got a good sturdy minute or two on his own. He's also rolling around and scooting a lot to get where he wants to go (usually off the mat or blanket he's on or moving toward a toy he wants). He's close to crawling, but I think a month or two out from getting that down just right. Tummy time is no longer torture, in fact, he seems to prefer being on his stomach now for relaxing and sleeping.

Bruce has a new favorite sound: mum mum. He said Mama, you say...well, not quite. EVERYTHING is mum mum, the dog, his toy, his bottle...if he's tired, if he's happy, if he's hungry. Ocassionally he says it to me, and it warms the heart. Will be neat when he finally associates me with the word! We are working on DaDa too :)

Bruce loves, did I say LOVES, his veggies. He eats a full container of carrots, green beans, peas, or squash each day. Still acquiring a taste for fruits, but just this week he has started back on oatmeal mixed with pears and seems to be liking it. He attacks the spoon every time, just can't get it shoveled into his mouth fast enough it seems. So his feeding schedule now is a few tablespoons of oatmeal and 1/2 container of fruit for breakfast and a full container of veggies for dinner along with about 30 ozs of formula spread out about every 4 hours each day (on average).

Bruce continues to be cared for by his loving Nanny, Lorraine. She will stay on with us until the end of September when Bruce will either start group daycare or Daddy daycare as Robb's job (group contract) at Lockheed is coming to an end.

Bruce continues to sleep well through the night, which is oh so nice. He occasionally wakes during the night but has been able to soothe himself back to sleep. His wake up routine is one of my favorites. He has an electronic mobile that starts playing music and puts his mobile friends in motion with the press of a button and Bruce has figured out how to start this on his own. So we'll hear him wake up, usually singing to himself, and occasionally we'll hear the mobile just start playing because he has pushed the button with either his hand, foot, or even his head! Now that's using his head. It's very cute.

That's the news from Falls Church! Hope all is well for Bruce's fans near and far.

Bruce's first sick visit

2009-08-27T20:49:00.002-04:00

No you're not crazy, I'm back posting, just got behind :)

Bruce had his first sick visit to the pediatrician today (8/27). He woke up Wednesday night around 11:30 PM. He had thrown up in his crib while sleeping and was shivering. It was so sad. We took his temperature and it was 101 degrees (which we later found out is considered just a low-grade temperature). As first-timers, we weren't quite sure what to do (Aunt Rhonda almost got a late night phone call). Luckily our pediatrician offers a 24-hour on-call Nurse who we spoke to and she told us to continue to watch him through the next day. He fell back asleep and the next day he was eating less and had digestive problems. Knowing that we had our big trip to Nebraska coming up that weekend, we took a trip to the pediatrician to make sure everything was okay. The doctor thought he might have rotavirus as she had seen a few cases that day. Not sure he really had that, but she said just to watch how he does over the next couple days and if his fever came back to give a call. He worked whatever it was out of his system and had no problems travelling or while in Nebraska. So we may have jumped the gun a bit, but wanted to check it out before leaving town. So we survived Bruce's first little fever/illness. We are blessed that he has been such a healthy little boy.

Will work on posting fun pics from our trip over the next couple weeks!

More August photos

2009-08-23T17:16:00.001-04:00

Some fun photos to share from the rest of August. We celebrated Uncle's Rich's birthday and had a couple relaxing weekends at home. Next week we'll be taking Bruce's first trip out to Nebraska to meet and spend time with his Heier aunts, uncles, cousins and of course Grandma and Grandpa Heier and Pop Pop too!

Bruce and mousse, what a perfect birthday!

Bruce in his exersaucer (from Lena and Brett)

He can touch the floor now!

Another outing to DC, facing front in the Bjorn now.

(on our way to the American History museum with Pop Pop)

Bruce continues to love his mat and Mr. Giraffe

Now this is trouble

(Bruce in his high chair)

Cars, Metros, Bjorns and DUKWs

2009-08-18T12:00:00.000-04:00

A DC take on Planes, Trains, and Automobiles...During the Heier family's visit we had a great adventure of a day in DC that took Bruce from the car, to the Metro, to Union Station in the Baby Bjorn and to the Potomac river on a DC DUKW (http://www.dcducks.com/history).

Riding in the car with Grandma Heier

On the Metro

Robb's a Bjorn guy

Bruce on a DC DUKW (Quack! Quack!)

first time on water

Heier Visit-July 2009

2009-08-16T12:00:00.001-04:00

Soon after our trip to Florida we had a visit from Grandma and Grandpa Heier and Uncle Kevin, Aunt Rhonda, Lena, Brett and Boo. Bruce had a very nice time playing with his cousins and venturing into DC. Here are some fun pics from the weekend.

Bruce with Grandma and Grandpa Heier

Bruce with his cousins Lena and Brett

Lena and Bruce

Oh Brett, such a cutie

Look how he's grown!

Aunt Rhonda and Bruce

(4.5 mos old) (1 wk old)

Lena and Bruce

(4.5 mos old) (6 wks old)

Carrots, yum, yum

2009-08-12T12:18:00.001-04:00

On July 12th Bruce had his first try at solid foods. First up was carrots! Boy, did he like them. At first bite he got a big smile on his face. Although at the start more came out then in, by the end of the session he was attacking the spoon wanting more and more!

He's really taken a liking to eating solids. He gets them once a day around dinner time. He eats about 1/2 the container each time, and has the same type of food for 4 days (to check for allergies/food issues). Carrots were first, then peas, then sweet potatoes, then green beans, then squash. We tried rice and oatmeal, but it upset his digestion, so we've put those on hold for now. He has also had his first fruit: pears! He wasn't sure about their tart taste and grainy texture at first, but he ate it all up. He's done a really great job learning to eat. Gets it all down for the most part, the trick is keeping his hands (and feet!) out of his mouth. We are finally gettng some good use out of his extensive bib collection. Enjoy the photos of his first taste!

Friends!

2009-08-10T12:00:00.000-04:00

While in Florida we got to visit with a few of Mama's friends and Bruce got to meet lots of new friends.

One night we had dinner with Chris and Ryan Lloyd and their cutie son Collin. That night, Christine broke the news that she is pregnant with a baby girl! We are so happy for you guys and excited for Collin to become a big brother. I can't beleive what a big boy he is.

Collin, Bruce, and Christine

We also had a fun night with Mama's friends Maria and Nicole at Maria's house. That night, Bruce met Maria, Jim and their daughter Juliana (6 months old at the time) and Nicole, Rob, and their son Nicholas (about 6 weeks old at the time). Bruce and Nicholas hung out in the gym talking about the Canes and trying to impress Juliana, but she didn't pay them much attention (her daddy's the only boy she's got eyes for). Juliana blew the boys away with her rolling over and her awesome wheels. Thanks Juliana for sharing your playmat and Bumpo with us! It will be so much fun watching them all grow up together.

Boy how life has changed!

(pictured: Maria and Juliana, Nicole and Nicholas, and Deanna and Bruce)

Juliana with her Dada, look at that smile!

Bruce meets Juliana!

(pictured: Jim and Juliana, Bruce, and Pop Pop)

Bruce meets Nicholas!

(Sleeping boys are the best ;)

Bruce and Nicholas hanging out in the gym

Juliana's on the move!

Tete's 90th Birthday

2009-08-07T08:00:00.000-04:00

While in Florida we celebrated Tete's 90th Birthday! Tete is Bruce's great-great Aunt (Mima's sister). The party was held at Deanna's godmother's house (Carola) and was a beautiful luau theme. We got to hang out some more with our cousins and got to meet lots of relatives (most of whom only spoke Spanish, so more practice for Bruce :) Bruce was also exposed to his first Mariachi group. We thought the horns might be too loud for him, but he really like it! And Mama (Deanna) liked having the chance to dance with her baby boy. We had such a nice time, and ate some very yummy Cuban food.

Unfortunately, we have no photos, but it was also nice to visit with Grandma Angel's cousin/Tete's son Miguel and Doris Nicolas, and their children and grandchildren: Doris and her husband Lester and their girls Sophia and Olivia, and new addition Jonathan (born Dec 31st!); Michael and his wife Jenny and their daughter Madison; and Susan and her husband Humberto and her daughter Katrina; along with Doris's family (also from Cuba). Also Tete's son Manolo and his wife Rita (recently immigrated to the US from Cuba).

Enjoy the photos, wish we had more!

Bruce ready to party in his Guayabera and Pipo hat

Bruce with Tete and Deanna

Bruce with Mima and Deanna

Bruce with Tete and Tia Carola

Bruce with Maria Ramos and Mima

(also in picture Nimia and Esther [Mima's caretaker] and Manolo on left-hand side)

Mima, Deanna, and Tete

Deanna and Dad

Enjoying some yummy boliche, arroz con pollo, plaintains and frijoles

(in picture Leo and Maria and Leo's cousins Andrea and Enrique)

And of course, tequila!

(in picture: Tio Lazaro and Todd [standing], Carola holding Luca, Dad/Pop Pop, and Enrique and Andrea)

A toast to corn! (no really, they toasted corn)
(in picture: Andrea, Robb with Bruce, Tio Lazaro and Esther)

Bruce and Dada had a great time!

Bruce is 5 months old!

2009-08-05T20:01:00.003-04:00

Bruce is 5 months old today!

It's been a really fun month and Bruce has hit several developmental milestones. It seems like every day he is doing something new.

Bruce is on the move! He enjoys laying on his stomach now and can roll back to front and front to back. He is even starting to pre-crawl which basically involves him pushing off his legs and throwing the rest of his body (his arms haven't quite got it down yet). Within seconds he will be in a different position from where you saw him last, so we can't take our eyes off him. We put down some foam flooring to give him some space to roll around. Haven't needed the baby gates quite yet, but will be soon I think.

Sleep, glorious sleep! Happy to report that after 4.5 months Bruce is now sleeping through the night. We went with the cry it out method (while we watched on video cam of course). First night he "cried/whined" for 12 mintues; Second night he went for 6 minutes; Third night he had a couple 3 minute bouts and since the fourth night it's been smooth sailing. He still wakes up from time to time but is able to soothe himself back to sleep without us. So now he goes from about 9/9:30 PM to 7:30/8:00 AM. It's fantastic :)

Veggies! Another big milestone is that Bruce has started on solids. His stomach was not thrilled about rice cereal or oatmeal so we've stopped that for now, but this boy loves his vegetables. He's had everything from carrots to green beans to squash and sweet peas. He loved them all, but seems to favor the carrots. We did fruit for a couple days, started with pears, but he wasn't as into it (maybe too tart?). So he gets a veggie treat for "dinner" each day (we just do once a day, about half a container right now, to introduce the concept of eating and test out different foods). The rest of the day he is on formula and some stored breastmilk. He's done great with all the new foods, very adaptable.

Other new milestones. Bruce is also starting to reach for things; he reaches up when he wants to get out of his swing and reaches for his bottle or toy if he wants one of them. He also gets excited when his bottle comes into view. He also has a really great giggle, it's hillarious when you get him going (usually a raspberry to his tummy does the trick). And pretty much everything ends up in his mouth, including his feet from time to time. Bruce has also become more vocal and will join in on our conversations. Usually comes out as a loud sqwaking sound. Surprisingly, he seems to be a bit of a chatterbox, must be some recessive genes kicking in.

I think I caught the major milestones. He keeps growing and growing and we've really noticed that he's gotten longer (hardly fits in his swing and bouncy seat anymore). Next pediatrician visit will be at 6 months. Here's some fun photos to share, enjoy!

Bruce eating his carrots

YUM!!!

Bruce on his mat going after Freddie the Firefly

Dada and Bruce in his exersaucer

Tio David, Tia Ana, and Luca

2009-08-04T11:55:00.001-04:00

We were lucky to be in Florida for Tio David's (Deanna's cousin; Lazaro's son) birthday! For David's birthday we got together at Mima's with Tio David, his wife Ana, his son Luca, Lazaro (Deanna's uncle) and Esther. We celebrated with some yummy Ropa Vieja that Mima "made" and, of course, cake! I can't believe what a big boy Luca has become. So cute :)

Bruce with his Tia Ana

Cousin Luca, Bruce and Mima

Cousin Luca and Tio David

Happy Birthday, say CHEESE!!

Tio Leo's crew

2009-08-03T12:36:00.000-04:00

We got to stop by Tia Carola's (Deanna's aunt/godmother) house to visit with Tio Leo (Deanna's cousin; Lazaro's oldest son), Tia Maria, Leo's kids: Leo Jr, Alex, Victoria, and Leo's cousins: Enrique, Andrea, Sammy, and Andrew. I think that this was the most kids Bruce has ever been around. It was a lot of fun! He particularly liked the nursery where his babysitters Victoria, Sammy and Andrew watched over him while he slept. We miss you guys!

Bruce with Victoria, Sammy (in bkgd), Leo and Maria

Bruce with Tio Leo and Sammy

Bruce with Victoria and Andrew in the nursery

Bruce with his cousin Victoria

Bruce with his cousin Leo Jr and Pop Pop

Bruce with his cousin Alex

Bruce says: "I like your shirt, Tio Leo!"

Tia Heidi, Tio Todd, Elyse and Baby Nikolas

2009-07-31T12:32:00.003-04:00

During our trip, we got to spend some time with Tia Heidi (pregnant with baby Nikolas at this time), Tio Todd and their daughter Elyse. Heidi is Deanna's cousin (Lazaro's oldest daughter). Fun family trivia: Heidi, Elyse and Deanna all share Maritza's name as our middle name :)

Family update: Baby Nikolas has now been born! Born Saturday, July 25th at 2:02 AM. Weighing 7 lbs, 7 ounces. Welcome to the family Nikolas!

Bruce with Tia Heidi

(and Baby Nikolas in her tummy)

Bruce, Elyse (and Mickey) playing in the gym

Elyse is now 3 years old!

Bruce meets Chi Chi

Pop Pop and Bruce with Tio Todd

Bruce and Robb with Elyse and Tio Todd

Tia Jasmine and Amanda

2009-07-30T12:30:00.000-04:00

While in Florida, Bruce got to meet lots of pretty ladies. Here's a couple photos with his Tia Jasmine and Tia Amanda. Jasmine and Amanda are Deanna's cousins (Lazaro's youngest daughters).

Jazz and Mandy also just became Aunts! We welcomed Baby Dylan, son of Olga (Olguita), this past April. The family tree has been growing quickly the past couple years. Three new Guerra boys this year!

Bruce with his Tia Jasmine

Bruce with his Tia Amanda

Olga and Dylan

(We haven't gotten to meet yet, but think of you guys often!)

Tia Laura and Julia

2009-07-29T12:48:00.003-04:00

Everybody's got a cousin in Miami~Jimmy Buffett

On Bruce's trip to Florida he met lots and lots of cousins! Over the next few days we'll post photos from each visit.

First up: Bruce meets Miss Julia Rose and Tia Laura! Laura is Deanna's cousin, making Julia and Bruce second cousins. Jula is almost one year old (big birthday coming up on August 5th!)

They started off in their separate corners

(On the mat (clockwise): Deanna/Bruce, Jasmine, Laura/Julia, and Amanda)

Julia: "Is this one of those Gringo babies I've seen on TV?"

Bruce: "Hey, do you know where I can get some cafe cubano around here?"

Julia's not so sure about this kid.

Then Bruce put on the charm.

Bruce: "Hola Prima!"

By the end of the week they were the best of friends

Bruce meets Mima!

2009-07-28T11:19:00.002-04:00

Bruce and Mima finally meet! After a couple days in Orlando we drove down in Pop Pop's truck to Mima's for their first face to face meeting. Bruce of course dressed in his finest Guayabera. Bruce loved his Mima and Mima adored her Brucito. They would sit in her room and babble to each other for hours on end. Bruce got to practice his Spanish during our visits.

We miss you Mima! Brucito dices: Te Quiero, Mima!

Brucito y Mima

Bruce listening to Mima

Mima speaks Spanish too!

Nap time at Mima's. Our little Cuban bebito.

Hanging at Pop Pop's

2009-07-27T13:10:00.002-04:00

Bruce had a nice time at Disney, but he had the most fun just hanging out with Pop Pop. We really liked his apartment and comfy couches. And it was a lot of fun driving around in Pop Pop's truck. Thanks for being a great host Pop Pop. Can't wait to visit again!

Bruce and Pop Pop

Zerberts are funny :)

Some face time with Bruce:

Downtown Disney

2009-07-26T13:32:00.001-04:00

Pop Pop took us to Downtown Disney (just 10 minutes from his apt) for a nice stroll and a yummy dinner at Bongos. It was a great day, nice breeze. And of course what Disney trip would be complete without the purchase of Bruce's first Mickey Mouse doll. "Traditional" style Mickey's are surprisingly hard to find. Meeska Mouska Mickey Mouse!

Bruce and Pop Pop at Downtown Disney

Strolling along Lake Buena Vista

Preparing for our trip to S. Florida with some Cuban Coffee at Bongos

(No cuban coffee for Bruce yet ;)

Bruce and his Mickey, Oh Boy!

Bruce's first Disney Adventure!

2009-07-25T10:06:00.002-04:00

While on our trip to Florida we/Pop Pop couldn't resist an introductory visit to Disney for Bruce. It'll be a couple years before he goes inside, but for now he enjoyed what we affectionately call the Hobo tour (a tour of all the free(!) parts of Disney).

Bruce at the Polynesian hotel getting ready for his first monorail ride.

Bruce on the Disney monorail

(We rode from the Polynesian to the Magic Kingdom,

and then from the MK to Epcot, and then back to the Polynesian)

First family photo in front of the Magic Kingdom

Bruce and Mama on the Disney Ferry

(shot of Cinderella's castle in the background)

On the Disney Ferry

(let's call it, Grandma Angel's "favorite" spot or at least where she spends most of her time ;)

Bruce's first plane flight

2009-07-15T11:59:00.000-04:00

Bruce took his first plane flight on Saturday, June 27th. We left at 3PM out of Reagan National Airport for Orlando International Airport. The flight marked the start of Bruce's first trip to Florida, visiting Pop Pop in Orlando first and then driving down to the Fort Lauderdale area to visit Mima and lots of Tios, Tias, cousins and friends galore!

Waiting for our flight at Gate 39

Bruce's first time on a plane

So...what did Bruce do on the plane you ask?

Started with a nap

And then a snack

A look at the view from 30,000 feet

And another nap!

I think he liked it!

Father's Day

2009-07-13T12:00:00.000-04:00

Some photos from Robb's and Bruce's first Father's Day. We had a very nice weekend which included a visit from Pop Pop and of course, a lot of eating!

Bruce and his Dada

Bruce and his Pop Pop

Bruce and his Uncle Rich

Deanna and Dad

Rich and Dad

Bruce likes Father's Day (at the Silver Diner)

Couldn't resist sharing this one :)

Bruce is 4 months old!

2009-07-05T22:56:00.004-04:00

Bruce turned 4 months old on July 5th and what a fun time it's been!

Bruce keeps getting bigger and bigger. His hair has gotten a little lighter, his feet a little bigger, and he's developed a milk belly. He gets cuter and cuter every day.

Bruce spent his 4-month birthday flying home from a fun week-long trip to Florida (lots of fun memories and photos to share in the weeks to come). He did very well. Sleeping most of the way on the plane.

A couple days later he had his 4-month pediatrician visit. Bruce is now weighing in at 14 lbs 11.6 oz and is 24.5 inches long, coming in at around the 40-50th percentiles. He received 5 vaccinations (Polio, Pneumococcal, DTaP, Rotavirus, and Hib). The doctor said Bruce is doing great and told Bruce that he should keep us :) We also spoke to the doctor about starting Bruce on solids, so more on that to come!

Video: Bruce in his crib

2009-07-02T07:00:00.000-04:00

Some footage of Bruce in his crib. Bruce loves to wake up and watch his mobile friends circle round and round. He always seems to smile when the butterfly comes in to view, it's really cute. Enjoy!

Video: More Gym Time

2009-06-30T07:00:00.000-04:00

Something to hold Bruce's fans over while we are away on vacation :) Here's some more video of Bruce playing on his gym mat. He's gotten a lot more interactive. Grabbing, pushing, and pulling on the hanging toys and he's "talking" a lot more.

Family Vacation This Week

2009-06-29T19:31:00.001-04:00

Just a note that we'll be out of town this week for Bruce's first trip to Florida. Stay Tuned for lots of fun photos and moments to share.

Have a great week and 4th of July everyone!
Bruce

Video: Bruce's Wake Up Routine

2009-06-24T07:00:00.002-04:00

One of my favorite times with Bruce is waking him up in the morning. It's fun to release him from his swaddle as he welcomes the day with a big smile and a really good, full body stretch. He then loves to watch his mobile and say good morning to his crib friends. Keeps him happy for a long while (though this kid is almost always happy). He's so good to us, we love you Brucie.

Video: Gym Time with Pop Pop

2009-06-19T23:03:00.002-04:00

In honor of Pop Pop's visit this weekend, here's a flick from some time with Bruce from his last visit: