The Peterson Family

Portrait Photos

2011-07-04T19:04:00.000-07:00

Here is Blake with his one-year-old sister, Jenna, in her one-year-old photo shoot.

Portrait Photos

2011-03-01T19:51:00.000-08:00

Here are some portrait photos of Blake, with his sister, Jenna,

and with his cousin, Lachlan, over the past year.

These photos below were taken when Jenna was six-months old,

and Blake was two years, eight months old (taken January of this year).

Below are photos from Blake's and Lachlan's latest photo shoot together taken December 2010.

At 3 1/2, we had Blake's baby sister, Jenna, age four months,

join him for their first photo shoot together.

Just after Blake turned three-years-old, we took him for photos with his cousin, Lachlan.

At 2 1/2 years-old, Blake enjoyed his first photo shoot with his cousin, Lachlan.

Below are photos at Blake's 2 1/2 year-old photo shoot in his Halloween costume.

Note that this is the same outfit that he wore for his 3 1/2 year-old photos.

It was a little small for him at 3 1/2 (and a little big for him here),

but we thought it would be neat to compare Blake in the same outfit, one year apart.

A Boston Red Sox fan? You bet!

Blake's New Moustache

2010-06-25T16:33:00.000-07:00

Now that Blake is a big brother, he needs the look to go with it. Check out his new 'stache!

New Baby Sister!

2010-06-25T15:57:00.001-07:00

Blake has a new baby sister, Jenna! She was born on June 21, 2010! For more photos of Jenna, visit her photo blog at JennaPetersonFamily.blogspot.com.
Here are some photos of Blake enjoying time with his little baby sister.

Blake and His Cousin, Lachlan

2009-12-22T07:03:00.001-08:00

Blake's cousin, Lachlan, lives in Orgeon, and so they see each other only a handful of times throughout the year. But the time they are able to spend together, they both really enjoy. Here is a sample of their fun times together.

From Age One to Age Two

2009-04-30T21:14:00.000-07:00

We have gotten professional portraits taken every three to six months since Blake was born, and we'd like to share some of our favorites from age one to age two.

Blake at age two:

Blake is one happy little boy!

He loves spending time with Daddy!

The extremely proud grandparents!

Both sets of Blake's grandparents . . .

. . . with Great-Grandma -- all in one photo! Amazing!

All Blake's men.
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Blake at age 18 months:

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Blake at age 16 months:

"Don't worry, little cousin, I've got your back."

Grandpa, Grammie, Daddy, Great-Grandma, Uncle Jim and Aunt Shelley all join Blake and Cousin Lachlan for some photos.

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Blake at age one year:

Blake's Two-Year-Birthday Weekend

2009-04-27T10:15:00.000-07:00

Has it already been a year since Blake's first birthday? Incredible as it may seem, a full year has indeed flown by since Blake turned one. As our son is now two-years-old, I truly believe what people tell me: After you have a child, the years will seem to move more quickly every year.

Below are some photos of Blake's two "Two-Year-Birthday Parties." As you may have noticed from Blake's first birthday, we like to do "double duty" with back-to-back parties on Saturday/Sunday to accommodate as many guests as possible. Below are some photos from Blake's fun-filled weekend.

Here is Blake having way too much fun with his food at breakfast.

Having nearly mastered his technique at Christmas, Blake is so into opening gifts now, it's scary.

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Blake's Sunday party (on his actual birthday, April 26), began with a rousing game of croquet. The winner again, as last year, was the croquet master, Slava.

Blake's cake, although thoroughly enjoyed by him, did not result in the same facial plastering as Blake's first year's birthday cake.

Only slightly distracted by a streaker at his party, Blake with his friend, Connor, soon return to more important things.

Blake's gifts at his Sunday party included a new potty and a choo-choo train (Thomas, the Train, to be exact).

"Lawn-mow," as Blake now calls it -- a new bubble lawnmower -- was definitely a favorite gift of his. Here is Blake trying it out for the first time, to the envy of all.

In Memory of Sheen

2009-02-22T21:50:00.000-08:00

On February 17, 2009, my 17 1/2 year old cat, Sheen, died. He was my pet, my friend, for the past 15 years. Sheen was my first pet of my very own. He was my sole roommate for three years of my life. I have never known a more loving pet, a louder purr, a better face massage, a warmer constant companion. I miss him dearly.

At the little burial service that my family and I had, my sister, Shelley, shared a touchy tale:
A family with a six-year-old son had recently lost their ten-year-old dog to cancer. They sat together one evening, shortly after his death, wondering aloud about the sad fact that animal lives are shorter than human lives. The six-year-old, who had been listening quietly, piped up suddenly, "I know why." Startled, the family all turned to him. He said, "People are born so that they can learn how to live a good life -- like loving everybody all the time and being nice, right?" The six-year-old continued, "Well, pets already know how to do that, so they don't have to stay as long."

Indeed, Sheen did love everyone, all the time. His constant company was my parent's dog, Beau. Sheen loved to rub up against Beau, snuggle in close and sleep right next to him. Beau died a few years ago, and it was very evident that Sheen missed Beau greatly. He did not know where to sleep, now that his best bud was gone. Now my first best bud is gone. And even though my now best bud, Blake, may not remember Sheen, I will always have these following pictures of them together, taken during the last few weeks of Sheen's life, and will share them with Blake as he grows up, reminding him of what a wonderful cat his first pet was.

Sheen, we will always love you . . .

Blake's Second & Third 1st Birthday Parties

2008-05-16T07:24:00.000-07:00

The weekend of Blake's first birthday, we had two more parties for him in Southern California. Here's a look at the happenings:

Blake tries out Mommy's rocker from when she was a little girl.

Blake listens politely to Grandpa's long tale.

Blake and his Uncle Ken have a great time together!

Blake has learned about party hats, and doesn't think they're all that great. Mommy applies a little pressure to keep Blake's hat in place long enough for the photos.

While Blake contemplates that annoying hat that he just removed from his head, Mommy sneaks on another!

Grandma demonstrates to Blake how this birthday cake deal is done.

"Hmm, now where do I start with this thing?"
(Distracted by his cake, Blake forgets about his hat! Success!!)

"Hey, this thing tastes pretty good!"

(with mouth full of cake) "I need more in my mouth than this little spoon can handle!"

"Wow, how does it stay together like that?"

"OK, I think I'm done."

"Can I have another piece to play with?"

"But why can't I play in the fireplace?"

Blake opens (what turns out to be) his most favorite gift!

After a slow start . . .

. . . Blake picks up speed very quickly . . .

(much to Grandma's dismay)

. . . and learns to drive like Daddy:

One hand on the wheel, and one hand on the manual!

Mommy tries to tell Blake that he doen't have to drive just like Daddy.

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Blake's Third Birthday Party Begins

Blake loves his new keys!

Blake and Linda enjoy each other's wonderful company.

Blake's all ready to try out his new set of wheels!

Daddy teaches Blake how to use his new cell phone.

(Yes, we do start them young, don't we!)

"But you have to keep it open, son, if you want to use it . . ."

"Ahhh, cake again!!! I love birthdays!"

"I think I overdid it. I can't swallow this bite."

How about some up close and personal shots of Blake's yummy face!

"This is my serious cake face."

"I love being one!"

Linda, Grandma, and Beth share the spotlight with our handsome one-year-old.

Blake's First 1st Birthday Party

2008-05-15T13:18:00.000-07:00

On April 19, 2008, the weekend before Blake's 1st Birthday, we had the first of Blake's three birthday parties (you can never party enough for turning "1", right!?!). This party was for those family and friends in Northern California that live near where Blake's home is. Here is a look at the fun that ensued:

Blake's first birthday hat. (It didn't stay on for too long, however.)

Blake's first birthday cake.

The hand is well placed into the orange icing.

Into the mouth the orange hand goes.

The results are spectacular!

Blake enjoyed his first cake VERY MUCH!

The cleanup was very arduous. But Blake seems happy about it.

"All clean!" Except for Blake's clothes, that is.

Ah, and the presents!

Blake quickly learns how to play his new toy xylophone.

Blake's 9-month Photo Shoot

2008-05-14T12:38:00.000-07:00

On February 17, 2008, three weeks after Blake turned 9-months, we took him, along with his cousin Lachlan, and his Grammie and Grandpa to get some professional photos taken. Here is a sampling of the wonderful results:

New Year's Eve Party

2008-05-13T12:10:00.000-07:00

Foosball excitement kicks off the fun on New Year's Eve.

Anton tries out Todd's big shoes.

Blake and Mommy enjoy New Year's Eve together.

Explosive fireworks light up the night to ring in the New Year.

After a Cold Night's Walk

2008-05-12T11:55:00.000-07:00

Some self-photos of Daddy and Blake after a cool night's walk on December 27, 2007.

Blake's First Christmas!

2008-05-11T07:25:00.000-07:00

We spent Christmas with Grandma and Grandpa Hutchins in Loma Linda. Aunt Kathy and Uncle Ken also came to celebrate Blake's first Christmas! Here are two dozen photos of our wonderful time together:

The play mat at Grandma's and Grandpa's brings a smile to Blake's face.

Blake loves his Aunt Kathy.

Blake's mouth enjoys a tasty tiger as his eyes enjoy a spinning show.

Blake explores Grandma's buttons while Grandma explores Blake's face.

Presents! Or rather, paper!!!

Blake really likes his penguin backpack that he got from Aunt Kathy. Whether wrestling it or sleeping on it, his penguin is just joy!

Our happy boy, Blake!

Ah, the joys of sleep.

Blake with his Grandpa, someone he can always look up to.

Once Blake discovers that there's more to the fun than just the wrapping paper, he really gets into his gifts!

All this excitement has just worn Blake out.

"Oh boy! Ribbon!"

The best gift of all: Blake!

Blake and his Daddy.

"Oh my goodness! What's this on my head?!?"

"Bye-bye Christmas! Until next year!"

Christmas Weekend

2008-05-10T11:18:00.000-07:00

The weekend before Christmas, the Peterson side of Blake's family all got together in Angwin to celebrate Blake's Grammie's birthday. Aunt Shelley, Uncle Jim, Cousin Lachlan, and Great-Grandma were all there, too, to help celebrate her big day!

Blake is fascinated by Grandpa's nativity globe.

Grandpa's and Grammie's beautiful Christmas tree.

Grammie and Cousin Lachaln enjoy a few moments together before bed.

Blake has a ball with one of his new toys.

Grandpa teaches Blake the art of talking while lying on one's back.

Jim shows off how his hands can still go all the way around his son's chest.

Sabbath dinner, a.k.a. "The Feast."

Carol and her cake.
(She looks too young to be a grandmother!)

Holiday in the Park, Round 2

2008-05-10T10:59:00.000-07:00

Two of Blake's great uncles, Tom & Lowell, came to visit. As a special treat, Daddy took them along with Great-Grandma, Grandpa and Grammie to see Holiday in the Park at Discovery Kingdom on December 16, 2007.

Grandpa, Great Uncles Tom & Lowell, Grammie, and Great-Grandma pose for the camera.

More lights around the park.

The world's tallest Christmas tree.

A parting shot from the parking lot.

Photo Shoot in New Home

2008-05-10T09:03:00.000-07:00

On December 13, we moved to our new home in Martinez. Among our first visitors were our friends Amelia and Terry. Terry's cap provided a wonderful prop for Blake's first photo shoot in our new home.

"Hmm, gotta dwell on that one a minute, man."

"Hey man, what gives?"

December Photos

2008-05-03T07:39:00.000-07:00

A collection of photos taken on December 12.

"Don't worry, folks, I'll be out before you know it."

"Daddy, when you hold the camera directly above my head like that, it makes me a little nervous."

"This to-go box is even more fun than dinner, Grandpa!"

"I'm all ready for Christmas!"

The Great Dickens Christmas Fair

2008-05-03T07:09:00.000-07:00

On December 9, 2007, Blake took both of his parents and both sets of grandparents to the Great Dickens Christmas Fair in San Francisco. He had been talking about it for months.

Blake liked being up higher than Grandpa LeRoy.

"Sittin' on the Dock of the Bay . . ."

One of scores of vendors at the fair selling their wares.

What would a Christmas fair be without caroling . . .

Ah, the dancing . . .

Somehow, these men were able to remain airborne for the entire dance.

The Whirl of the Dance . . .

Naked Time

2008-05-03T06:54:00.001-07:00

Blake loves his "naked time." Mommy and Daddy aren't brave enough to let him be naked for too long. (Okay, Daddy's not brave enough . . .)

Laundry Boy

2008-05-03T06:41:00.000-07:00

Blake had some good fun with a load of freshly washed laundry (although maybe he had more fun with his toes). Take a peek:

Holiday in the Park

2008-04-08T22:25:00.000-07:00

Thanksgiving weekend we took Blake and his cousin Lachlan to Discovery Kingdom's "Holiday in the Park." Here are some photos from the wonderful time we had there.

Showing off our little boys in their toasty bundles in front of the world's tallest Christmas tree.

Grandpa tells Blake the story of Christmas.

The very beautiful Christmas Tree Forest.

Blake looks out from within his warm wrappings in Grammie's arms to take a peek at Souka, the Killer Whale.

Toys come to life on stage.

Thanksgiving Weekend

2008-03-01T17:37:00.001-08:00

Thanksgiving weekend was spent with Daddy's side of the family. It began with a very special church service on Sabbath, 11/24, which included the dedication of his only first cousin, Lachlan.

Sabbath dinner with Great-Grandma at the head!

On Saturday night, a baby shower for Lachlan was thrown at PUC (a shower, not the baby!)

Good friend, Steve with Blake sitting happily on his leg.

Krista takes in her new nephew, Lachlan.
"Hey Cousin, how can I get myself one of those phones?"

Blake sleeps blissfully in his grandmother's arms.

Blake's First Thanksgiving

2008-03-01T17:00:00.000-08:00

Blake had a very special first Thanksgiving. Mommy has very fun and wonderful relatives, and Blake got to meet them all for the very first time.

Katie provides a very nice pillow for her little second cousin, Blake.

Blake is happy to receive a bottle from his second cousin, Victoria.

Thanksgiving dinner!

Blake with his second cousin, Stephanie.

Blake seemed to find Stephanie's chin very tasty.

A truly wonderful dog, Midnight.

Time for bed! Blake loves his warm night attire.

"Hmm, I know I'm supposed to know her, but I can't remember . . ."

"I just love cousin Stephanie!"

"Bye Mommy and Daddy, I'm happy to stay with these fun folk."

1st John Deere

2008-03-01T16:56:00.000-08:00

Blake's 1st John Deere:

Happy Faces

2008-03-01T16:46:00.001-08:00

There is nothing as wonderful as the happy, laughing face of your child.

G., G. & B

2008-03-01T16:37:00.000-08:00

Grandma, Grandpa and Blake had a very special at home photo shoot on November 10 during their special week-long stay. Here are some photos of the happy trio:

7-Steps to the Big Rollover

2008-03-01T15:13:00.000-08:00

Blake first rolled over on September 5, 2007 at 19 weeks of age. But because it was a single roll over, no photos of the event were captured. These photos below, demonstrating the 7-step plan for the big rollover, were taken on Halloween Day.

Step 1: Lying full on your stomach, focus for the big move;

Step 2: Move your body into position by raising the leg and the arm of the side that will be moving through the air during the roll;

Step 3: Raise this arm up high into the air, while simultaneously rotating your head in the direction of the roll;

Step 4: Thrust this arm hard behind you as your head continues to turn in that direction; your leg should be higher in the air now, as well;

Step 5: Now kick both legs back hard behind you to give your body the momentum it needs to reach the half-way point;

Step 6: If you have done steps 1-5 correctly, you will find that your body has now flown past the midpoint of the roll, and is now automatically completing the rest of the roll; just enjoy the ride;

Step 7: Your body lands back on solid ground. Congratulations, you have just completed the big rollover.

After successfully achieving these seven steps, you may give a little squeal of delight, if you are so inclined.

6-Month Photos

2008-03-01T14:31:00.000-08:00

On October 25, one day before his 6-month birthday, we took Blake for his first professional photo shoot. We loved the results. Here is a sample of the great photos that were taken:

And as a Halloween special, some photos of our curious cat:

Halloween Party

2008-03-01T11:04:00.000-08:00

On October 28, we had a Halloween Party for Blake (he really wanted to dress up!). He was the cutest little leopard you ever saw!

Blake is fascinated by Anton's Indian costume.

"Cats."

This pirate is very good with babies.

The Petersons in costume.

Pirates and Indians come in pairs.

Daddy was a pretty crazy Skeleton Zombie . . .

. . . but he didn't scare Blake any.

Blake was a very happy "putty tat!"

Playing Piano

2008-03-01T10:30:00.001-08:00

Something else Blake really loves to do is play the piano.

Blowing Raspberries

2008-03-01T10:27:00.000-08:00

Something that Blake loves to do, is blow raspberries with his lips. Here are a few choice shots of his vigorously vibrating lips.

Kickin' Back

2008-03-01T10:09:00.000-08:00

After visiting the Stanley Lane Pumpkin Patch, Blake decided to just kick it back, and take a cruise in his stroller.

Stanley Lane Pumpkin Patch

2008-03-01T07:56:00.000-08:00

On October 21, 2007 we took Blake to the Stanley Lane Pumpkin Patch in Napa.

Daddy and Blake as pumpkins.

The cutest pumpkin of all!

Blake the Ghost.

Blake shares the moment with a new friend.

Blake had a very fun time seeing all the new things to see.

Blake's not too sure about his new pumpkin seat.

Daddy's son shines by a tall sunflower.

Daddy sits with Blake on a tower of hay bails.

Lashes and Hats

2008-03-01T07:37:00.000-08:00

Mommy and Daddy are both very impressed with Blake's long eyelashes.

Although Blake has had hair since birth, we still put hats on him occasionally. He doesn't mind them a bit, and we think he looks very cute in them.

Blake's Visits to Marine World

2008-03-01T07:04:00.000-08:00

On June 18, we took Blake for his first visit to Marine World.

Blake meets Bugs Bunny for the first time.

For the record, the official name of this park is now Discovery Kingdom (just renamed this season), but it will always be Marine World to me.

On September 30, Blake met Daffy Duck and Bugs Bunny again.

Posing with His Toothbrush

2008-02-25T08:47:00.000-08:00

"Here, meet my toothbrush."

"Yeah, that's all I ask: A dry diaper and a wet toothbrush."

"It doesn't do much, but I like it! I like it a lot!"

Muscle Man and his Toothbrush

The Toothbrush Javelin

All hail the mighty toothbrush!

Visiting Great-Grandma

2007-12-26T12:44:00.000-08:00

On September 29, 2007, to celebrate her 96th birthday the following week, Blake and family visited Great-Grandma at her lovely home.

Great-Grandma taught Blake some very important life lessons.

"Now the first thing you must learn, Blake, is . . ."

"OK, Great-Grandma. I'll try to remember all that."

Grandpa's Keys

2007-12-26T12:23:00.000-08:00

"Here, Blake. What do you think of my keys?"

"Oh, Grandpa! How exciting! What shiny noisy objects!"

"Yes, please! I would like to take your car for a spin! Give them here, please. In my hand, Grandpa."

"Grandpa, how am I supposed to drive without your keys?"

Real Food

2007-12-25T05:45:00.000-08:00

Blake's first food with taste (no offense to the baby rice cereal folk, but have you tasted that stuff?) was baby peas.

"Please, no more rice cereal."

"OK, folks. The bowl is now empty. Now may I have some real food."

"Oh yea! Now this does look tasty!"

"I'm not sure if I can get this all down, though."

"Isn't there supposed to be something on the spoon?"

"I'm not sure, but I may like the taste of this spoon better."

"Is it supposed to be green?"

"Hmm, this stuff is actually not that bad."

"May I have some more, please?"

"Not bad, Mom and Dad. But next time, can we make it Andersen's instead?"

Going for the Toes

2007-12-25T05:13:00.000-08:00

Blake has found hours of enjoyment can be obtained from learning how to grasp his toes. "Toes in mouth" was not far behind.

"If I can just find a way to get those things way down there . . ."

"Ah, almost there . . ."

"Gotcha!"

"I've got 'em. And they're not getting away."
"Notice my firm grasp on these elusive little guys."

Blake's Giraffe

2007-12-24T18:51:00.001-08:00

Blake is very captivated with shadows that the sun casts through the window blinds.

Here he is enjoying the show with his little giraffe.

"I'm so excited . . ."

Grandma, Grandpa and Blake

2007-12-24T18:48:00.000-08:00

Grandpa with His Favorite Grandson

2007-12-24T18:41:00.000-08:00

Blake's First Food

2007-12-24T18:32:00.001-08:00

At just over four months of age, Blake had his first "solid" food, rice cereal for babies.

Blake was pretty excited about this new culinary adventue.

"OK. Enough rice cereal. Give me something with flavor."

Classic Pooh

2007-12-24T18:26:00.000-08:00

Blake in his stylish Classic Pooh outfit.

Without his hat . . .

. . . and with it.

"I have WHAT on my head!?!"

Blake at the State Fair

2007-12-24T18:07:00.000-08:00

On September 3, 2007, Blake took his first visit to the California State Fair.

Blake's first look at a loghorn.

"If he gets out, he could do WHAT to me!?!"

Blake and his first llama.

Since Sacramento was very hot that day, we kept a cold washcloth handy to help keep Blake cool.

The always cool Blake with his Uncle Jim.

Gecko Boy

2007-12-24T17:38:00.000-08:00

Blake loves his Gecko outfit and his cool inchworm.

And we just love him in his cute outfit!

"What's up, dude?!?"

"I am, that's what!"

"Oooo, this IS high, Daddy!"

The Coolest

2007-12-24T16:54:00.000-08:00

Blake is . . . the coolest.

"I rule!"

"Uh, what exactly do I rule?"

"I'm so cool . . . ooo, it's scary."

"Just dwelling on my coolness."

"Just one more shot of how cool I am."

Tummy Time

2007-12-24T12:34:00.000-08:00

From very early on, Blake has been able to hold his head up. We're amazed at how long and how high he could hold it up. Blake is happiest when he is checking out what's going on around him.

Blake Playing with Mommy

2007-12-24T10:34:00.000-08:00

From the start, Blake has generally been a very happy baby.
Here he is at 16 weeks happily playing with Mommy.
These photos were taken on 8/15/07.

"Gotcha, Mommy!"

Big-Eyed Boy

2007-12-10T21:48:00.000-08:00

Blake, our beautiful blue big-eyed boy.

Doubly Dedicated

2007-11-19T07:09:00.000-08:00

Blake was doubly dedicated as we also had him dedicated on July 29 at Napa FBC where Daddy works.

Pastor Pete took Blake on a mini-tour of the sanctuary so that everyone could see him. There was much "awe"-ing as they past (we think it was for Blake).

It is very special that Great-Grandma could be here to share in the celebration.

Blake's Dedication at PUC

2007-11-19T06:22:00.000-08:00

Blake was dedicated at the PUC Church on July 28. Both sets of grandparents, one of Blake's great-grandmothers, and, of course, Mommy and Daddy were with Blake on stage on this special day. Aunt Shelley helped keep the cameras rolling from the pew. Big thanks to David for these great photos.

Daddy sang a special song for the occassion and dedicated it to Blake.

He sang "I Want to Be Just Like You."

Groovy Play Mat

2007-11-18T03:40:00.000-08:00

"Yea, man, this play mat is groovy!"

"And this mirror . . . far out!"

"Did I just miss something?"

Group Shots

2007-11-18T03:24:00.001-08:00

Four generations.

The Peterson family.

All the great-grandchildren.

And the entire family.

Siblings

2007-11-18T03:14:00.000-08:00

Siblings together again . . .

. . . and add in two of the spouses.

All four children and one wonderful mother.

Cousins

2007-11-18T03:10:00.000-08:00

Cousin Heather and Todd

Cousins Heather and Kelly

Shots on the Road

2007-11-17T21:20:00.001-08:00

Here are some shots taken "on the road" during our vacation.

Second Cousin

2007-11-17T20:49:00.000-08:00

Blake's second cousin, Mariella, looks quite at home in her car seat.

The camera flash in this second photo reveals the flying pink pig in the upper right corner. (You'll have to ask my cousin Dave about that.)

A Favorite Resting Place

2007-11-17T20:46:00.000-08:00

If Blake finds a comfortable shoulder, like his Aunt Shelley's, he tends to rest for a spell.

Blake with Daddy and Cousin Krissy

2007-11-17T20:22:00.000-08:00

Here is Blake with Daddy and Cousin Krissy.

Looks like Krissy has the baby holding down!

Blake, Daddy, and Great-Grammie

2007-11-17T20:20:00.001-08:00

Blake enjoys more time with Daddy and Great-Grammie.

Sleepy Boy

2007-11-17T19:43:00.000-08:00

It's a lot of work meeting almost 30 new great aunts, uncles, second cousins, etc. Blake needed a break. He decided to take a little snooze on his Great-Grammie's comfy bed.

Blake is very entertaining to watch . . .
. . . even while he sleeps.

Blake and Great Aunt

2007-11-17T19:40:00.000-08:00

Blake finds a comfortable place to nap, on his Great Aunt Hope.

Blake, Grandpa, and Great Uncle

2007-11-17T19:29:00.001-08:00

Blake is the center of attention (where he prefers to be) with his Grandpa and Great Uncle Hal.

Blake and Great-Grammie

2007-11-17T19:19:00.001-08:00

Here is Blake meeting his Great-Grammie for the first time. Looks like he really enjoys her company.

Second Cousins Meet

2007-11-17T19:17:00.001-08:00

Blake meets his second cousin Mariella. The grandmothers proudly observe the action.

Daddy with Blake at WAH

2007-11-10T17:15:00.001-08:00

After our Hawaiian vacation, we extended our trip to Maryland for Todd's Grandmother's 90th birthday celebration. Here are a few highlights from our Maryland stay.

Here is Daddy with Blake at the Washington Adventist Hospital in Maryland where Daddy was born. Blake thinks his hospital is better.

Funniest Jokes

2007-10-21T19:05:00.000-07:00

Before leaving Hawaii, I decided to share some classic Hawaiian jokes with Blake. They must have struck a cord, because he surely found them to be funny!

"Oh, Daddy, you tell the funniest jokes!"

Dolphin Adventure Cruise

2007-10-21T18:41:00.000-07:00

On July 19, 2007, the day before we left Hawaii, we took a Dolphin Adventure Cruise with Blue Sea Cruises. And, boy, did we see dolphins!
Daddy and Blake pose for the camera as dolphins jump in the waters behind.

Waiting for Scandinavian Shaved Ice

2007-10-21T18:33:00.000-07:00

As Blake and I waited outside for Mommy to come back with our Scandinavian Shaved Ice, I captured some mega-cute photos of our happy baby boy.

Presenting Kailua-Kona's Scandinavian Shaved Ice (and these aren't even their largest size!)

Hard Rock Cafe x 2

2007-10-21T18:25:00.000-07:00

Didn't think Blake was a rocker?
Well, he certainly enjoyed both times that we took him to the Hard Rock cafe in Kailua-Kona (although the music did put him to sleep).

Tired of the Sights

2007-10-21T18:23:00.001-07:00

"But I don't care how beautiful it is, I just want to sleep!"

"I'm going back to sleep now, okay?"

End of the Road -- Pololu Valley Lookout

2007-10-21T18:18:00.001-07:00

Pololu Valley Lookout, the end of the road, was a gorgeous spot to spend a few moments absorbing the beauty and majesty of Hawaii.

King Kamehameha

2007-10-21T18:13:00.000-07:00

On July 17, 2007, we took a drive along the west coast of Hawaii to its northernmost point. Along the way, we stopped to admire a statue of King Kamehameha.

Todd stands below the great King Kamehameha, humbled by his majesty.

Around the Big Island Sights -- Near Journey's End

2007-10-21T18:01:00.001-07:00

As we headed south along Hawaii's picturesque western coastline, the resplendent sun sank low in the sky, reflecting radiantly off the mighty Pacific.

Around the Big Island Sights -- Rainbow Falls

2007-10-21T17:30:00.001-07:00

The lovely waterfall "Rainbow Falls" was our last stop on the Hilo side of the island before heading back across the northern half of the island to the Kona side, where our condo was.

Around the Big Island Sights -- Orchid Nursery

2007-10-21T17:10:00.001-07:00

Here are some of the beautiful orchids that we saw at a orchid nursery on our journey around the island.

Blake was very enthralled by all the pretty flowers.

Around the Big Island Sights -- Volcanoes

2007-10-21T16:46:00.000-07:00

Volcanoes National Park was my favorite stop on our "Around-the-Island Journey."
Looking out toward the Halema'uma'u Crater in the Kilauea Caldera from the Volcano House where we had lunch.

The Thurston (yes, like Mr. Howell!) Lava Tube was most excellent!

Like a crater within a crater, the Halema'uma'u Crater lies in the enormous Kilauea Caldera. Blake wanted to explore further, but we could not oblige because of the sulfur in the air (not good for babies!). Mommy stayed in the bus with Blake while Daddy got these cool photos.

Around the Big Island Sights -- Puuhonua

2007-10-14T05:57:00.000-07:00

On July 16, 2007 we took an "Around-the-Island Journey" through the Big Island Discovery tour company. It was a wonderful opportunity to enjoy some of the best that the Big Island of Hawaii has to offer. The next several posts are highlights of this tour:

One of our first stops was at Puuhonua, an ancient Hawaiian sanctuary.

Puuhonua was dedicated to the people of the United States as a monument to the achievements of the polynesians who first discovered and settled these islands.

Telling Secrets

2007-10-13T11:56:00.000-07:00

Blake listens intently to Mommy's secret.

"Oh, Mommy! What a great secret! I won't tell anyone!
(Except maybe Daddy.)"

Goofy Smile

2007-09-27T18:52:00.000-07:00

On our Big Island Discovery Around-the-Island Journey on July 16, Blake shows off his goofy side, with a slightly goofy smile.

Blake's First Swim in a Swimming Pool

2007-09-27T18:32:00.000-07:00

On July 15, Blake had his first swim in a swimming pool at the Lea Casa Resort where we stayed for our week long visit to Hawaii.

Touchdown on Hawaii (the Big Island)

2007-09-27T17:40:00.000-07:00

After much pleading with Blake, he finally agreed to leave Kauaii for our next destination, the Big Island of Hawaii.

A perfectly timed snap of the camera shutter reveals the skid that the airplane wheels go through before they start to roll.

Touchdown on Hawaii on July 13, 2007.

But I Don't Want to Leave Kauai!

2007-09-27T17:36:00.000-07:00

Blake was very adamant about not wanting to leave his beautiful island.

"But I Don't Want to Leave Kauai!"

Blake tries to prevent Daddy from packing his suitcase by using himself as a baby shield against advances to pack.

Mirrored Fun

2007-09-05T23:21:00.000-07:00

Before leaving Kauai, we want to share a couple more photographs of Blake with his loving Great Aunt Marion.

Both Blake and Aunt Marion greatly enjoyed their time together.

Kilauea Point Lighthouse

2007-09-05T23:14:00.000-07:00

On July 12, 2007--his 11-week Birthday--we took Blake to his first Lighthouse, the Kilauea Point Lighthouse.

A gorgeous view from the Lighthouse.

Cousin James and Great Aunt Marion

2007-09-05T23:12:00.001-07:00

Blake's cousin James and his Great Aunt Marion.

Larry Rivera in Concert

2007-09-05T23:06:00.000-07:00

After dinner, we took in a Larry Rivera concert in a nearby hotel.

While the rest of the family enjoyed an up-close and personal view of Larry during his concert, Blake and Daddy enjoyed his music from a short distance away, just in case any of Blake's "needs" required immediate attention (and also to protect Blake's tender hearing).

Dining Out

2007-09-05T22:57:00.000-07:00

On July 11, 2007, after seeing some of the sites of Kauai, we took in a delicious dinner at Hukilau Lanai.

Blake is having a hard time deciding what to order.
"Hmmm, and that looks good, too . . ."

Blake is just too interested in the food to pose for a photo.

Blake, still hungry, is now looking behind his Great Aunt Marion to check out the food that is going into that lady's mouth.

Seeing the Sights

2007-09-05T22:04:00.000-07:00

Here are some of the sights we saw on Kauai:

Wailua Falls

Here is Blake posing in his favorite chair in front of Wailua Falls.
Although we can tell Blake when he gets older that he saw all these sights in Kauai when he was just a baby, as this picture attests, that may not be entirely accurate.

Opaekaa Falls

Spouting Horn

Blake's Bed

2007-08-25T22:15:00.000-07:00

On our trip to Hawaii, since a crib or even a bassinet was unrealistic to take, what with our car seat and stroller already in tow, we opted for a little co-sleeper that fit nicely in the bed between Mommy and Daddy. Here is Blake enjoying a good sleep in his little bed.

Cousin James and Baby Blake

2007-08-11T23:04:00.000-07:00

Blake just loved hangin' with his very cool cousin James.

Ditto for cousin James.

Monk Seal

2007-08-04T13:44:00.000-07:00

Just a short way down the beach from where Blake had his first dip in the ocean, there was a monk seal sunning himself on the shore.

As Hawaiian monk seals are one of the most endangered species in the world, signs are posted on the beaches in Hawaii and an area roped off around any monk seal that comes up onto the beach.

Blake wasn't interested in checking out the monk seal, as he was too fascinated by the sand between his toes.

Sandy Feet

2007-08-04T10:41:00.000-07:00

What's a dip in the ocean without a walk along the sandy beach?
And the sandy feet of the baby . . .

First Dip in the Ocean

2007-08-04T10:31:00.001-07:00

Later that day, after visiting the Farmer's Market, we decided it was time to visit the great blue sea.Here is our little man's first dip in the mighty ocean. Blake seemed a little startled by the experience, neither crying nor smiling, but just looking a little dazed (when his eyes were open).

After Blake's "swim," he's wiped out!

Farmer's Market

2007-08-04T10:03:00.000-07:00

On July 9, 2007, we took Blake to the Koloa Farmer's Market on Kauai.
The vendors selling their wares . . .

Blake is contemplating which fruit Mommy and Daddy should buy.

The ever colorful Aunt Marion.

Dressed for the Occasion

2007-08-02T21:28:00.000-07:00

Since we were in the islands, we had to dress Blake appropriately.

Which outfit do you like better? I think Blake loves both!

Great Aunt Marion and Baby Blake

2007-08-02T20:42:00.000-07:00

While on Kauai, we stayed with Krista's Aunt Marion.

Great Aunt Marion was so excited to be able to hold little Blake. They spent quite a bit of time together and became bosom buddies.