First Steps

Here is some footage of some of Miles' first steps walking along the couch. This video was taken July 30th. He still doesn't walk on his own, but he has certainly improved from these first wobbly steps! Enjoy!

Everyday Life and Fun in Ludington, MI

Here are a few scenes from everyday life with Maximus Miles . . .

"What are you doing, Miles?"

"Nothing Mom!"

Eating . . .

. . . is one of Miles' favorite activities . . .

. . . topped only, perhaps, by playing with balls and/or putting things on his head.

Better yet is playing with balls in the bathtub . . .
. . . or the greatest of all, SCORING A BASKET!!!!

Waking up from a nap is pretty fun too.

But wait! There's more! What can beat a trip to Ludington, MI with friends?
Or riding on Daddy's back?

Manny and Miles in their PJs

Manny's brother, Jonah, shows off his coloring skills.

Miles watches longingly as Dad and the guys play bocce ball . . .

Here the boys pose for their junior high-esque "best buddies" photo.

Can you believe this is the wall art from our cottage's dining room wall?
It took up the ENTIRE wall . . . no kidding.

Thanks for organizing these good times in Ludington, Todd and Miriam!

The Jothen Wedding

Our dear friend, Peder, got married this summer in Northfield, MN. Since he and Brian (and Hanuman!) shared an apartment for four years during graduate school, we figured we better make the trip. Peder married a delightful poet named Kaethe, and it is clear they will live happily ever after.

We arrived the night before the wedding and were able to meet up with old friends from University of Chicago.

The ornery groom . . .

Do you like Warren's tie? Yes?
Well, it's Brian's. Way to save the day, Brian!

Don't you just love weddings?

Miles does! Especially the dancing part!

These two photos were taken by the wedding photographer.
Am I lucky to have such handsome guys in my life or what?!

Congratulations Peder and Kaethe!
God grant you MANY years!

Chicago Birthday Party!

Okay, okay! I know I have been very delinquent about posting on our blog, and I apologize. It has been a very busy summer between traveling and working. You'll be happy to know that we've been taking lots of photos and plan to share them here as we are able. For starters, I take you back to Miles' Chicago birthday, which was hosted by Uncle Seth and Aunt Carina on July 5th:

Take a look at the birthday boy on his new airplane from Dee and Granner!

We were grateful that so many friends and family came to celebrate with us.

Godpapa James showed up in his fancy convertible.
He truly is 007!

Miles assumed the car was his birthday present . . .
. . . not until you're 16, son.

Miles received MANY generous gifts . . .

. . . but as usual, he preferred the envelopes and wrapping paper.

Is that kid picking his nose back there? . . I think so.

Another M&M cake, although this time it was a train theme in honor of Dee.

This is one joyful one-year-old, folks!

THANKS to all our family and friends for making this such a special birthday!