Introducing Baby Jo-Jo

Jonah Allen Walseth (aka Baby Jo-Jo, according to Parker) was born July 30, 2009 at 2:17pm. He was 7 lbs. 12 oz. and 20.75 in. long. After a quick labor, they put little Jonah on my chest, and I thought they handed me Parker. Wow, do they look alike! He is doing well so far, and Parker just loves him. I'm excited that he feels so comfortable with him around. He loves to pat him and kiss him and wants Jonah to use his blocks and toys. I keep trying to explain to him that he is not able to do those things yet, but Parker always invites him to join. We're excited to finally meet him and are trying to get settled at home together. Here are just a few pictures for now, but we will post some more soon. I know I'm not fast enough for some....

Butterfly House

Grant's Farm with Micah

Some friends of ours have graciously taken Parker on a couple of outings while Craig and I get some work done around the house (preparation for baby and FESs). Their first day together was at Grant's Farm. Those of you that know Parker would know that he does not always like being away from his Mama, but the Cobbs are like family to him, and he only gave a couple of fearful looks as they pulled out of the driveway. I was so proud of him. He's never really been away from us like that unless with my own family. He's growing up! He and Micah are only 3 days apart and have a blast together.

Parker and his cousins

This is from the last night at the hotel. Parker enjoyed living with all of his favorite people. He has been listing everyone's names several times a day, asking where they all are. I felt like I said "They are at work today, but we'll see them again soon" at least 10 times today. I'm glad that he enjoyed them so much, but we are not ready to ask everyone to move in with us so he can eat breakfast with Gaga (Grandma) and Papa each morning!

Chicago/Legoland

Legoland was a blast. The kids loved it, plus it helped that we were one of only three families there at that particular time. They had amazing displays of characters, the Chicago skyline, a jungle, etc. All out of little Legos! They also had two little rides. I didn't get to go on them, however, as I was rejected at the front of the line for being pregnant. It never even occured to me that the slow moving ride might not be okay for pregnant women. I guess I've never tried to hop on a ride in either pregnancy. I just had to look on and act as if I was excited for everyone else :)

Yes, my little cuddler is giving Bob the Builder a good ol' Parker hug:

My brother's special talent:

Chicago/Museum of Science and Industry

This was a big museum for our little guy, but he found plenty of things to drive. He sure loves to be behind a wheel.

Parker in the perfect-sized car---the electric car. He loved it!

Chicago/Shedd Aquarium

My whole family went up to Chicago for the week to have a little vacation together. We stayed in Schaumburg next door to IKEA (spent a good amount of time there, as usual) and drove into the city a couple of days to enjoy the museums and Garrett's Popcorn. The first full day, we headed to Shedd Aquarium. Parker loved it all. He was there a little over a year ago, but what a difference taking a 1 year-old vs. a 2 year-old! We had so much fun watching him explore.