Gabriel Unplugged-Life From The Crib

Gabe and the Dreamcatcher

2010-07-30T10:58:00.000-07:00

I came home from school with a dreamcatcher on Tuesday and daddy filmed me talking about it, and what I think is a good dream, and a bad dream. I would have kept talking but I had to go pee.

News From Shitago Part Two - Fishing!

2010-07-26T13:35:00.000-07:00

So, after little Michael's baptism, we drove for a long time in the car to go up to Aunt Maureen's cabin in northern Michigan, on the Cisco Chain of lakes. The drive would have felt really long but we stopped at a place on the way that had lots of cheese and I made a new friend:

When we got to the cabinet (Gabe-speak for 'cabin'), I was surprised at all the cool stuff there! A big lake, a four-wheeler, boats, a fire pit and lots and lots of grass to play on!

Uncle Tommy took me and my daddy and older brothers on a fishing trip, and I caught my first fish - perch and large mouth bass. I also got to drive the four wheeler with Uncle Tommy, feed a deer, and ride on a pontoon with Aunt Maureen. We also saw some real bald eagles and fed them some of our fish!

One day my daddy tried to take me on the inner tube behind the boat but that didn't go so well. I got over it with some S'mores that night. Here are some of my favorite photos from the trip:

I will post some more photos of my brothers and everyone else in the next few days. There is a lot to share! Over and out for now. I have to go put out some fires...

News From Shitago - Michael's Baptism

2010-07-21T10:05:00.000-07:00

Hey readers! My family just got back from our trip to Chicago - or as I pronounce it, Shitago. We went to get my little brother baptized. We let my older brothers run the cameras so the photos and videos are all over the place but some of the ones I like best are below.

Michael did great even though the masses lasted for about 14 hours, and afterwards there was a fun party for family at Aunt Maureen's house. I slept through most of it but I hear it was really great.

For now here are some photos from Michael's big day. Tomorrow I will post some stuff from the rest of the trip where we went to a cool cabin on a lake, caught fish and rode four-wheelers! Yay vacation!

Firehouses, Dump Trucks, Beaches and Stuff!

2010-05-19T00:06:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone. Wow, it's been a long time. We've all been super-D-duper busy, though. Mommy went back to work (boo), and Lisa is back at our house helping out (yay). I go to school three days a week now and have one day with Guya and Fridays at home, and I like that.

Baby Michael is doing all sorts of cool stuff now -- he can roll over and over, he smiles a lot and he likes to talk in a high screechy voice! Alex and Cameron are in the middle of their lacrosse seasons and I like going to their games because most of them are at parks with play structures or sand boxes.

We have had some fun family visits. Kerrianne and my little cousin Connor came out in March, and it seems like I have seen almost everyone from my Midwest family in the last couple of months! Except Timmy - get out here Uncle Timmy!

Just a couple more things and then I have to go night-night. Mommy took me to see a real firehouse, and I got to go in a fire boat too. And just last weekend we went to Dozer Day, where I got to ride in two dirt movers and work a giant drill. Totally cool.

Well, I will try to be better about updates but that's it for now. Here are a few pictures of the stuff I have been up to:

Settling In With My New Family

2010-01-21T11:52:00.000-08:00

Wow, so much to report on this time. My brother came home about a month ago, and he met everyone else in the family -- my older brothers, Guya, Papa, and even Uncle David and Aunt Sherry and some of mommy's friends from work.

Right after we got home it snowed one day -- it all melted the next day but daddy and I had enough time to build a cool snowman and throw snow at each other. Fun!

We have also had lots of mommy's family come to town. So far, Grandma Green, Aunt Patty, Uncle Paul and Aunt Maureen all came for visits. I kept them all very busy with numerous requests for fort building, fire station remodeling, and book reading.

One of my favorite things we did was to hike to the top of these waterfalls called Multnomah Falls. Daddy had me in the backpack and we hiked all the way to the top. I told daddy I was tired part way up and he laughed because I wasn't really walking. But hey, fresh air does that to a kid!

We also went to Guya's for a nice birthday dinner for her. It was a great gathering and all of the brothers were together. Here are some photos from the last couple of weeks:

Meeting My New Brother

2009-12-18T10:56:00.000-08:00

Wow, what an exciting week! First of all, I got to stay at Guya and Grandpa's for the whole weekend. We went to a Santa party and like I said, I wore my Santa suit and it was super de dooper fun.

Then, I got to go to the hospital to visit my new brother, Michael. He is soooo tiny! His little feet (we call them 'stinkas') are so small! I got to hold him and kiss his head.

The next day, Michael came home from the hospital and my older brother Alex met him. Today, Cameron will meet him and we'll all be together.

I was also excited to go back to school yesterday to see all of my friends. They made a big deal out of me being a big brother now!

Finally, I am getting really excited for Christmas and keep asking when I can open my presents. I also hung a new stocking for Michael so he's covered too!

Gabe Gets A Big Brother!

2009-12-13T18:33:00.000-08:00

Well, I am typing this from my Guya and Papa's house where I am staying while my mom and dad are at the hospital. My little baby brother is there with them, and he was born just two and half days ago!

I have not met him yet but hope to tomorrow when we all get back together at home. I can't wait to show him my new Santa suit and all my cool toys.

For now, here is a picture of me in my new Santa outfit. I wore it all week, and the kids thought it was neat when I wore it to the Santa party in Guya's neighborhood.

My Brother's Football Highlights

2009-12-02T09:47:00.000-08:00

My older brother Alex finished his first football season and daddy put together a short video that has three of his coolest plays. I went to a couple of games and had fun watching but I prefer to tackle Alex and Cameron myself when I see them!

My First Haircut!

2009-11-30T16:23:00.000-08:00

Yep, I am 3 and a half (almost) and I just got my first haircut. Papa L will be happy but I am sure he'll say they didn't take enough off.

I was a little afraid at first because I thought that maybe the scissors would hurt my hair. But once I walked into the haircut store, I forgot all about that. They had a fort, a big firetruck and all sorts of toys.

I got to ride in a jet plane (just like Uncle John back in the day) to get my haircut. They even had a video about cars on a tv, and before I knew it I was all done. I think it looks great. What do YOU think?

Trick or Treating!

2009-11-04T16:29:00.000-08:00

Wow, Halloween was so fun this year! It was the first year that I walked up to people's doors, rang the bell and said "Trick or Treating!" And you know what? They gave me CANDY! I went to about 20 houses in Guya's neighborhood (yeah that is the other thing - I can almost count to 20 now!).

I was a firefighter for Halloween. My Grandma Green bought me the outfit a while ago and mommy got me some great boots to top it off. I wear the costume all the time at home though - not just for Halloween. I love to pretend I am a fireman and mommy got me a bunch of fireman books from the library so I can learn even more about it.

When I was done, I spilled my candy out on Guya and Papa's floor and looked at it all. I ate some too. Their doorbell kept ringing and I was as happy to open it and see the kids in costume as I was to be dressed up myself.

The next day, my brothers came over and we traded candy. They seemed to have a lot more than I did, but I think they were out for longer than 20 houses!

Catching Up

2009-10-27T13:45:00.000-07:00

Well, it's been a busy month. I really love my new school. I got to bring Sally, our class' guinea pig home last weekend. Now when mommy makes my lunch, if she asks if I want something in my lunch and it's not something Sally eats, I don't want it! I also got to make a 'me suitcase' to help teach the class about me and my family.

My older brothers have been playing lots of soccer and football. My little brother is still growing, and moves in mommy's tummy a lot more!

We had a fun visit from Grandma Green this month and went to a cool pumpkin patch where they had a train ride, jumpy house and spooky reptile tour.

I am going to be a fireman for Halloween this year and have been practicing my trick or treating! This is the first year I will go out and knock on doors. Exciting! Well, that's it for now. I will catch up more after Halloween.

First Day Of Preschool and My New Brother

2009-09-13T08:55:00.000-07:00

Wow, what a summer. I went to Chicago, swam in the pool at Guya's house and learned how to ride my tricycle. And I turned three! I also found out that mommy is growing a baby brother in her tummy. My gosh I am going to be a big brother for Christmas.

Lately the little guy has been moving around in mommy's tummy and I can feel him with my hand, but that kinda freaks me out. Mommy asked what I might want to call my brother and I said, "Um...sister." Daddy said, "sorry dude, ain't happening."

Summer vacation is over for my brothers and they are back to school - Alex started sixth grade at something called middle school and Cameron is now in fourth grade. Alex plays football and looks cool in all of his pads. And Cameron is playing soccer again, because he is such a fast runner.

Anyway, my other big news is that I am done at Kindercare and am now in the preschool class at St. Clare, where we go to church. I loved Kindercare and have lots of my artwork from there hanging on my walls in my room. But I like my new school a lot. Teacher Pat and Melissa are really nice and there are tons of books and a guinea pig called Sally that can come and stay at my house sometime.

Here is me on my first day, and some of my artwork from Kindercare:

I am a Rock Star (Yes, I'm Are!)

2009-08-03T14:27:00.000-07:00

Lately I have been squeezing in some groovy musical jams between playing with my garbage and fire trucks and dressing like Fireman Sam. In fact, I joined my daddy's band, colorfield, last night for a couple of really rocking songs. I even learned how to do a rocking 'hair flip' from the guitar player, Pat.

I have also been helping daddy build a new play structure in the back yard. It's been really hot lately, so the project stalled a bit (come on, dad), but I am ready to get out there with my screwdriver and hammer and make it happen.

I was also in a wedding! Our friends Andrea and Brian got married last month and despite the crazy heat, it went really well. I got to carry a pillow up to the front. Once I got up there, the cool dudes gave me Skittles to reward my good job. I got all dressed up and even danced with mommy after dinner. I got to stay up until waaay past my bedtime, too!

Well, my life never gets boring, so I'll be catching you up more later.

A Hot Time In Chicago - Part One

2009-07-11T07:28:00.000-07:00

A couple of weeks ago, my whole family got on a plane (or did we get IN a plane), and flew all the way to Chicago to see lots of family. It was super duper hot but that just meant more time in the pool! Here are some of my favorite things I did the first couple of days in Chicago.

We spent some time at Aunt Maureen and Uncle Tommy's place. He let me drive the tractor!

I loaded logs for them...

They let me play with the pressure washer, which was super fun.

After working hard all day, I got to play with the Money Box! I really like this thing but it kept eating my quarters.

At my Great Uncle Mickey's party for being a priest for 50 years, I kept making everyone crack up.

Great Uncle Bill told me to Pipe Down! Ha ha, not really...

Aunt Patty put me on Brandon's head - I am Brandon's Hat!

My cousin Michael showed us the helicopters he flies for work. I think I could take one of these for a ride!

I also got to sit on the fork lift there. Get out of the way!

I will post more photos in a couple of days.

Fun In The Sun!

2009-06-02T21:18:00.000-07:00

It's been really hot out lately but that hasn't stopped me from having fun. In fact, some sprays of 'sunscreen' and I am all set to roll!

Last Friday I went to my big brothers' school carnival and got kind of obsessed with the big inflatable slide. It was probably as tall as our house and I had to climb these really steep blow-up stairs to get to the top. Then I got to slide down and do it all over again. Daddy filmed me on his phone but couldn't figure out how to get the video to play anywhere else. So you'll just have to use your imaginations!

Then yesterday I went to Cameron's baseball game but I didn't watch any of it. I instead got in the middle of Alex and all of his friends who were playing football. Pretty soon they gave up their game and played mine instead, which involved me chasing them around, tackling them and throwing grass everywhere. It was great. This time daddy was able to get the photos off his phone.

And finally, I am very into my music these days. I will break into a rousing "If you're happy and you know it" at any time. Back at home, I borrowed Alex's guitar and rocked out a bit. Check out my first music video:

Gabe Rocks

2009-05-20T08:45:00.000-07:00

Mommy and daddy have this new word for some of my pictures. It is 'stoic' and I think it means that I don't smile. Well, sometimes I don't feel like smiling. I laugh and giggle all day long sometimes, so when someone sticks a camera in my face, I am not always going to perform for you. Sorry!

Speaking of performing, I have been entertaining my teachers at school. Last week I was running around the class and yard with my first in the air yelling "rock and roll."

This week we were sitting in a circle discussing bugs, and our teachers asked us "what do ants do?" I said "ants bang their heads like rock stars." Then I gave a demonstration, bobbing my head up and down slowly.

Daddy has been very proud of me the last couple of weeks...

Spring Has Sprung

2009-04-21T17:46:00.000-07:00

It's been really nice outside. Very sunny and warm - I have started wearing shorts and sandals to school. I hope it lasts!

A couple of Sundays ago, we had a visitor called the Easter Bunny. I guess he comes every year but this is the first year I remember him. We went to church really early and when we got back, there were eggs all over the place! Not only was it fun to pick up the different colored eggs, but there was yummy stuff inside of them!

Afterwards, mom and dad said something about a 'sugar high' but they must have been talking about Alex and Cameron - I only ate a few jelly beans. Enjoy the photos daddy took:

Catching Up

2009-04-06T21:07:00.000-07:00

Wow, there is so much to catch up on. First of all, it's been really sunny outside the last few days. People are saying silly stuff about springs and springing. All I know is that I don't have to wear a coat all day and we can have the windows open in the house!

Last weekend, my brother Cameron started his baseball season. I watched a couple of minutes and then took over the play structure next to the field. Alex is playing something called lacrosse but I have not gone to his games yet.

My Uncle John visited recently and we had a great hike with him around two really cool waterfalls - but it was raining the whole time. I mentioned wearing jackets, right?

Mommy, daddy, me and my brothers took a super fun bike ride on Sunday. I rode on the back of daddy's bike and afterwards I had a tasty burrito at some place called cha cha cha. Yum yum yum.

Well, there is a lot to tell but sometimes it's easier for me to just have daddy post a video. I have a lot to say and I even whip out a little song and dance for anyone who can make it all the way to the end. Yay Spring!

Gabeism #1

2009-03-21T07:33:00.000-07:00

Sorry I have not posted in a while. I have been busy learning fun role playing, like having everyone I know be my patient while I play dentist and doctor. I will post more about that later. For now, here is something mommy and daddy though was 'cute.'

Mommy moved the blender off of the counter top and put it away and I said, "Where did the smoothie player go?"

Pnuemonia, Pox and Snow

2009-01-25T16:36:00.000-08:00

No, it's not the name of a screamo band. It is what I have been dealing with all month. Whew!

The week after New Years, I came down with a really bad cough and then a bad fever. My temperature shot up to 104.5, which is my personal record. But I didn't feel much like celebrating. The doctor took pictures of my lungs with the X-Ray machine, and said I had pneumonia. I guess if you get a cough and THEN a fever, that is bad. It should be the other way around. Taking notes, mom and dad?

My Grandma Chickie came to visit and got here a day early to help because daddy was out of town. The medicine kicked in quick, though, and I bounced back really fast.

Then we had a super fun three day weekend, with Grandma Chickie, Alex, Cameron and two of their friends all staying over.

Then I went back to my school for the first time in a long time and when daddy picked me up, they said they had an 'unconfirmed case of Chicken Pox.' Well, that night I started getting some, so I had to stay home all week.

Luckily I had the Chicken Pox shots when I was little (those hurt but now I am glad I got them), because I didn't get sick and only had a few pox. They are almost gone now anyway.

And then last night, it snowed! It was just warm enough for me to go outside to the park with mom and dad, but cold enough for the snow to stick around all day.

I have to say, 2009 has been very eventful so far! I wonder what the rest of the year will bring?

I wanna Rock-n-Roll all night

2009-01-06T21:38:00.001-08:00

Happy 2009 rockers! My first resolution this year is to be diaper free and so far I have not fallen off the wagon (maybe momma should try a resolution she can stick to like me). I still require the padding while sleeping (and for other nameless acts), but whatevs, I'll shake that habit in due time. My second and most important resolution is to rock out more. I've adopted daddy's guitar stand as my mic stand and my auntie Therese bought me a tititar (aka guitar) for Christmas so game on! To document the early stages in my career I've enlisted mommy and daddy as my video crew (they might not always get the best shots, but for my budget they awright). Check out my latest vid--I like to call this one Baby Beluga/ABC medley. Enjoy! Oh and P.S. for those of you who might be lyrically challenged--I am saying Baby Debuga(aka beluga) rock and roll, baby debuga whoa whoa whoa.

Gabe Gets His Groove On

2008-12-21T23:31:00.000-08:00

There has been snow on the ground outside for more than a week now. We have gone sledding down our street and I will post some of those photos later.

But after a hard day of sledding today, we, as mommy said, 'got our groove on.' Daddy filmed it and now you can enjoy the show too!

Snow Day!

2008-12-14T13:50:00.000-08:00

I woke up today and snow was falling around our house and in the yard. It was neat! Mommy said that at least 2 or 3 inches came down. We bundled up and went into the back yard to make snow angels and throw snow at the dogs and each other!

It was great but got really cold so we didn't stay out too long. Mommy made me hot chocolate, and then I had what daddy called a sugar high. Fun!

The weather lady says it will be below freezing for the next week. Wow, that could be great - all of us stuck in the house for a whole week. I am so exited about that, I mixed up my numbers when daddy had me count to ten:

December Is Fun!

2008-12-13T18:56:00.000-08:00

This month has been a blast so far. Mommy and daddy bought what they are calling a 'baby backpack' and I ride on their backs in it. I guess I am very 'heaby' but I sure have fun looking around while they do all the work on our hikes.

On our last hike, we ended up at this cool waterfall. The spray from the water was freezing so we stayed away from that but we did take some neat pictures with my brothers.

I can't believe it has been a whole year since Santa made me cry. But this year I am not so scared. I actually really want to go see Santa! Mommy and daddy promise to take me to see him soon. I'll be sure to write about that.

We did go to a tree farm last weekend and while it was great to get our very own Christmas tree, they had tractors and dirtmovers there! I almost jumped our of my dipies I was so excited. Daddy sat me on the tractor and before long I felt like I could very easily drive it.

We also got to ride in a "Gator" that daddy drove, to get the tree we had chosen. That was almost as fun as the tractor but it wasn't as big, so not quite as fun.

When it got too cold, we went into the house with our friends who run the tree farm and had snacks.

I found their dog's kennel and thought it was really super fun when my brothers put me in there and locked the door. It was really cozy in there and I made them give me my blanket and a drink.

The day ended with a super colorful sky. It looked like a painting I might have made with my favorite teachers at school. I was really tired but man, what a great day! The next day we all decorated the tree and aside from being sick for a few days, everything has been hunky dory since then.

Halloween is FUN

2008-10-25T10:18:00.001-07:00

Last night after school I got to put my dragonosaurus costume on and go BACK to school for a super fun Halloween party. It was kind of weird to be back at school with loads of mommys and daddys there and different things to do in every classroom. It was also dark, and I never go to school in the dark. Fun!

I got to see my teachers and some friends from class and it was a good time. And daddy found out that the school director is a big fan of The Who, so he had a good time too!

Watch Me Rock Out!

2008-10-23T17:56:00.001-07:00

As mommy, daddy, my brothers and Miss Bev from school can attest to, I am turning into quite the drummer. Daddy made my first rock video the other day and here it is:

Alphabet and Numbers With Style

2008-10-19T11:15:00.000-07:00

I heard someone talk about how hard it is to walk and chew gum at the same time. I have no idea what that is about but I do know that I can jump in my crib and sing the alphabet at the same time! Daddy says I am missing a few letters but I think I sound pretty awesome. My numbers are coming along too. Check it out!

Just a regular 'ol fall weekend

2008-10-12T15:57:00.000-07:00

Jam packed weekend--all sorts of fun to talk about. Uncle David and Auntie Sherry came over yesterday for some play time. I got to feed Auntie Sherry's granddaughter a bottle--aren't I good with the babies? See--I've got a sensitive side too :)

Saturday night I watched a video with mommy and daddy and got my very own popcorn! I feel more like a grown up every day. I was happy we watched a video I picked out, not that I don't like Iron Maiden videos, I just feel that animated shows are much more my speed (sorry daddy).

Today we went to the pumpkin patch! We saw all the animals in the barn and took a hay ride to pick out my very own pumpkin. It was a beautiful day and I loved my first (and hopefully not last) hay ride. The day ended with me throwing a 2 year old blow out tantrum because I wanted the "WHOLE" elephant ear--not shared with mommy and daddy. I thought I'd let mommy and daddy know that this type of decision will just not do, so I cried for the entire ride home (30 minutes). I got the last laugh though--cuz I threw the whole thing on the ground and no one got to eat it! Did I mention it was past my nap time? Irrelevant really, the point is I should be in charge of rationing the elephant ears.

I FOUND IT!

NO WAY DADDY--THIS IS MINE, I DON'T WANT TO TRADE!

HAY RIDES ARE FUN!

I Love My Family

2008-10-07T20:38:00.000-07:00

I have been learning all sorts of things at school, including how to share and serve others. Here I am making coffee for my brothers and giving mommy and daddy big hugs. Of course I can't help but being a bit bossy here and there - it's in my DNA (or at least that's what daddy says!)

Summer Is OVER

2008-09-12T19:57:00.000-07:00

Wow, that went fast. The last I remember, I was oohing and ahhing at these fancy things called fireworks, and now Daddy is already driving my brothers to school in the mornings.

I had a fun and busy summer. It seemed to rain a lot but now it's sunny all the time. I think that is weird but Mommy and Daddy say that is "Oregon." Here are some highlights to catch you all up:

I learned how to make pizza:

And I am starting to become what Grandma calls a 'chatterbox.' Here is what I had to say on my picture day:

The Mokus and Other Tales

2008-07-29T15:22:00.000-07:00

So, daddy filmed me talking about some of the interesting stuff that has been going on with me lately.

Mainly, I am very interested in the mokus (smoke alarm) at Grandma and Grandpa's house, as well as buses, trains and motorcycles that are too loud for my small ears. We discuss my brothers' various minor boo-boos. And of course daddy makes me laugh so hard that I throw up my ice cream dessert. I have to say, it tasted as good coming up as it did going down - all in all a fun time. Enjoy:

Oh, and here is a bit of an older video where I discuss a visit to the zoo:

I'M TWO!! 2!! DOS!! DEUX!!

2008-07-07T21:42:00.000-07:00

I can't believe I'm two so soon! It seems like just yesterday I tried my first solid foods--now I am already trying to bargain my way into eating animal crackers at every meal.

To ring in the big day I had a dinosaur themed party--soooo fun! I got a new fire engine that I have to use my feet to move (think Fred Flinstone style), and I had a hard time sharing because I love it so much!

Since I have been such a delinquent blogger, this birthday post will hopefully get me up to me up to date!

Gabriel reads?!?!

2008-06-09T22:29:00.000-07:00

I learned a new expression--it's called "NO WAY". I say this when I have vegetables on my plate, when mommy wants to wash my hair, when daddy tries to tickle me, when my brothers won't let me play with their toys, and when I am asked to make animal noises and don't feel like performing.

On another note--I love my book "Moo Baa Laa Laa Laa" and have memorized almost the whole thing! Generally I let mommy read most of it (I think she enjoys the actual story), but join in for the animal noises as I think I add more excitement than my mom (she negotiates for a living--I perfect animal noises--it all works out).

I still keep talking about my zoo visit from well over a month ago--I just love those animals! But when it comes to animals in my own house, I often find myself yelling "NO" at the top of my lungs. Those darn dogs can be so obtrusive when I am walking around eating a cracker.

You may notice my determination to do everything on my own, and lash out if I am offered help. Clearly I get this from daddy :)

The year of the 2

2008-05-21T21:47:00.000-07:00

My friend Jaylee was the first to take the plunge into the 2's. We celebrated her birthday in style--water tables, play structures, yummy food--oh my! I only got into a minor scrap with one of the girls about a mini-wheel barrel. Guess who won? I'll leave that up to you to decide.

I will say this--Jaylee's party's are always top notch. I hope I am still friends with her in high school when parties count :)

Oh yeah--I also got marked. Got my first tattoo--a skull and cross bones. It happened to be purple and green, but still bad-ass nonetheless. Ooops, I just used one of those words that are "mommy and daddy only" words.

My first day of school

2008-05-13T20:34:00.000-07:00

Monday was my first official day of school! I started daycare and we were all a little nervous (mommy), but after a few tears were shed (mommy), we managed to embrace the day and only call to check in 4 or 5 times in a 5.5 hour time frame (mommy). Turns out this daycare thing is pretty fun--on Monday we played outside, I met some cool kids and had waffles for breakfast. When Mommy came to pick me up I was still napping so she caught my zen state on film.

Let's just hope there is no homework at this joint. I have enough to manage with my cars, blocks and basketballs.

Spring Clean-Up

2008-04-27T21:13:00.000-07:00

Am I a fashion statement or what? I personally think the froggie boots and plaid shorts are a winning combination straight from of the streets of L.A or London. Anyway, I was finally able to wear some spring clothes and help mommy and daddy outside in the yard. I thought it would be a good idea(?) to help mommy sweep the herb garden. She did digging stuff and I used my broom to sweep the dirt and help clean the herbs. Apparently I was a little "rough" sweeping the sage and rosemary, so mommy politely excused me from my chores.

Earlier in the day my brothers and I played ball in the front yard. I stood on the front porch while Alex and Cameron volleyed the ball over the railing from the front yard--Basically I shagged the ball and threw it back and waited for the next. What do people without brothers do with their time?

I also went to Alex's baseball game this weekend--it was fun! When there was a lull in the excitement I took the opportunity to entertain everyone in the stands(well if we are being honest--I was really on my "game" the whole time, not just during a lull:) . Whenever the batter hit the ball I yelled "GO GO GO" as loud as I could. I also yelled "YEAH" and clapped a lot. Next time maybe I will exercise a new found discretion and only cheer for my brothers team (I couldn't help myself--the whole thing is so exciting!).

Hope everyone is enjoying their spring (whatever your version of that is!)--ours seems to be a lot of rain.

Gabe out.

Cirque Du Gabe

2008-04-24T22:11:00.000-07:00

In keeping with my clear direction of wanting to be in the X-Games before the age of Five, Mommy taped one of my performances. I also hear there is talk of wanting to equip me with a helmet? Whatev mom.

Say no to drugs

2008-04-10T20:42:00.000-07:00

So, here I am in the aftermath of my first use of drugs (Amoxicillin to be exact). Check out the picture closely--I am covered in unsightly red bumps! I had a double ear infection a week ago and have been dosed on the A ever since, then on the 10th day woke up with this crazy rash. I think I've seen pictures like this on the news before with the caption "what you might look like if you abuse....."

Mommy checked with the doctor and it appears I may be allergic to the A. Needless to say, I hope all of you will use this as a lesson to stay off drugs! Look what happened to me, It's like I have the chicken pox without having all the advantages of family sending me get well gifts.

Mommy put some anti itch stuff in my bath water and let me play in the tub for more than 30 minutes! I sure hope this dumb rash goes away soon--it is sooo itchy!

I am looking forward to my brothers baseball games this Saturday and I was also supposed to have another play date with my friend Kate. If all goes well this thing will clear up, and if not---does anyone know a good make-up artist?

Talk to me people.....

Decoder ring

2008-04-02T21:38:00.000-07:00

I have been remiss in my posts, mea culpa. I think that is religious for I am a slacker. Mommy has made a list of all the things I am saying since sometimes daddy or others are confused by my vernacular.

Dadish = ketchup
BahDee = Popsicle
Futbul (football) = Cameron (for some reason I think my brothers name is Football)
SaaSaa= Roxy (our white dog)
FIE= Fire (we like to read books before bed by the fireplace)
Shy= Shower (love the showers)
Beep Beep = Car
Choo Choo = train

Cats and Dogs

2008-03-17T18:32:00.000-07:00

So today is Saint Patty's Day!

Wow, my Aunt Patty is so special they made a whole day just for her. Or was that for my cousin Kerrianne's dog Paddy? I get it all confused.

Well, mommy made it back in one piece from Japan and I got a cool shirt with some crazy writing on it (all I got was that lousy T-shirt!).

I had a lot of fun with daddy, but I sure am glad she's back.

While mommy was gone, I worked on my animal noises, and daddy made a tape one night - enjoy.

DNA transparency

2008-03-05T21:25:00.000-08:00

Well, I might not look like my mom or dad--but no doubt about it I am related to my brother Cameron! Here is me and my bro at the park last weekend. How on earth did I get so lucky? We played catch, then laughed with each other, then we went home and got a yummy snack of pretzels. Here are a few pictures of our park fun!

Mommy is off to Tokyo on Saturday--I will miss her, but on the other hand that means more time alone with my dad! When mommy's gone daddy and I eat less vegetables, stay up late, and drink less milk! Travel safe mommy--I will miss you :)

PLAY BALL

2008-03-02T20:20:00.000-08:00

Last night I got to hang out with my Godparents David and Sherry (that kind of sounds like a 70's folk band doesn't it?)

Uncle David and I played catch and it was a blast!

Good catch Uncle David! (How could he miss--I'm like Nolan Ryan with a football)

I'm out-c-ya!

Eat My Dust, Michael Jordan!

2008-02-29T21:11:00.000-08:00

Man, did you see how much air I get when I shoot hoops? In case I haven't mentioned it before, I love to play ball. Mostly basketball, but really any game involving a ball will get me going. Last Saturday at Cameron's basketball game I showed my support by running up and down the side of the court yelling "SHOOT" and "GO." I think the players appreciated my enthusiasm.

I can't wait until I can get my game out on the court and show everyone how it is done. Until then I'll practice shooting footballs at the hoop.

Day O' Fun

2008-02-26T20:33:00.000-08:00

I am really being misleading by titling my entry a "Day o' fun" when in reality I had quite a week of fun. Lisa took me to the zoo TWICE and of course I got my weekly visit with "Ma Ma and Pa Pa" (Grandma and Grandpa Lesinski). I also was outside a lot last week as we are having incredible (don't know what that word is--but I think it means go to the park) weather.

Last Saturday we started the day by going to Cameron's basketball game. My big bro shot a couple of great baskets and I cheered him on emphatically from the sidelines. When Cam was sitting on the bench I waved to him across the court and he waved back! We waved back and forth for a few minutes, each time I laughed harder. What great brothers I have!

After the game we stopped at the park, took a nap then went back to another park to meet my friend Kate. I spent most of the time running around checking out the equipment. First, I loved walking up and down the see-saw (with mommy holding my hand of course--I'm not quite ready for Cirque du Soleil), sliding down the slide--solo of course, I am MUCH too independent to require assistance (clearly I get this from daddy), and playing in the sandbox.

Next stop after the park was painting! Mommy and Nicole (Kate's mom) took us to a paint the pottery place. I chose the colors and let my artistic juices flow. After we finished painting, well after Kate and I finished painting--we left the remaining grunt work to our mommies--we chatted by the entrance for awhile.

First, We are just acknowledging how much fun we had.

Then I told Kate about the advertisement on the window for an upcoming art show, she proceeded to tell me that the artist is actually a local favorite of hers!

I talked up the other artist on the white advertisement and Kate clearly disagreed with me at first.

But in the end I think I won her over when I offered to take her to the showing and give her a lollipop! Sugar works everytime!

We parted ways shortly after our artist discussion, and I gave Kate a few smooches on her check and gave her a very strong "BYE-BYE". I overheard our mommies talking about doing this again--yeah!

Arizona Fun

2008-02-22T11:24:00.001-08:00

Well my travel schedule has again picked up.

This time I jetted off to Arizona. At this juncture it might be prudent for mommy to sign me up for my own frequent flier miles so hopefully one of these flights I can get bumped to first class (I totally deserve the pampering). And I'm sure all the folks in first class would have been receptive to the 20 minute screaming fit I had on the way to Arizona - good times for all.

I decided to abort my afternoon nap so I guess I was a little cranky :) Mommy handled it like a trooper and actually laughed. I overheard her telling the person sitting next to us that it's times like this she wished she had a lolly-pop stashed in the bag. Hopefully she'll learn from her mistakes and keep these more handy. You know--for the sake of others :)

The trip was planned to meet all my aunts and cousin for a ladies weekend (hey, wait a minute... how did I get suckered into that???) and celebrate Grandma's birthday. I had so much fun. Those gals sure know how to spoil me with attention and also give mommy a lot of breaks. I learned to say everyone's name (translations below):

Grandma (Chicki) = Kick-key
Therese = teece
Maureen = reen
Patty = addy
Kerrianne = kee-kee

Here are a couple of shots of me and "Kick-Key" walking around the golf course behind her house. She was showing me all sorts of things, including the moon which was out during the day! I shouted "MOO" at the top of my lungs when I saw it. Then me and "Kick-Key" decided to play football! Just kidding, but doesn't it look like we are about to huddle up? Pretty funny if we were--what a team we'd make!

On Sunday, we went to church where my Great Uncle Mickey said mass. My daddy's Uncle George and Aunt Zita met us there and they even sat in the cry room with me and mommy! It was fun to spend some time with them, even if it was during the mass. I was a bit more "active" than the other kids in the room so mommy took me for a walk in the back of the church.

We made our way up to the balcony and when mommy prevented me from climbing on top of the people already sitting there I screamed "NO," just at the quietest part of the mass. I think Uncle Mickey was very courteous when he paused the mass just so I could be heard. Needless to say, my "behavior" warranted us stepping outside so I got to run around on the lawn and play in the sunshine (boy, bad behavior is really "punishable" isn't it...hee hee). Aunt Patty chased me around and helped me climb a tree.

After mass we all ate breakfast together at the church pancake breakfast and got to visit more with Uncle Mickey, Uncle George and Aunt Zita. Here is a snap from after the mass--me and mommy w/Uncle George and Aunt Zi.

I got to spend another couple of hours hanging out before we packed our gear and took off. I was very good on the plane ride home and was really excited to see daddy when we landed.

Another successful trip logged!

Happy Valentine's Day

2008-02-14T19:54:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone. Today is my second ever Valentine's Day. Even though I have been through this one time already, I just could not think of what to write on mom's card, but then it came to me, and I dutifully scribbled my love onto the paper.

The last few weeks have had a lot of milestones for me. Mostly, I got all of my sharp teeth in - you know, the ones that look like doggie teeth. Boy did those keep me up at night, and mommy and daddy too.

I also am saying a lot more, and have a lot of my own words for things. Just today, I started calling cars "beep beeps" and I say "Bailey" really clearly when I am calling our dog. Of course, I call every dog I see "Bailey." Dogs are "Baileys."

My brothers have been showing me how to play touch football, and when they tell me to "go long," I run as fast as I can yelling "Go!" over and over. In fact, I really love to throw balls and daddy says I have a really good arm for a kid my age.

But after all of this hard work, I like to relax and watch a show. Everyone knows when I want to do that because I bring the remote and say 'show, show, show.' I like Baby Einstein videos and also the Animusic videos daddy got me for Christmas.

Well, that's it for now. Tomorrow I get to ride on an airplane with mommy to go to Arizona to see Grandma Green and all my aunts and cousin! Yay!

Kickin' it

2008-02-06T21:31:00.000-08:00

So what's new? Well, I have learned a lot of words and some of them I cannot repeat as my mom and dad say "nooooo Gabe" every time I say them, so for now they remain sacred (I'll give you a hint---several of them have four letters, what is the big deal?)

One of my new words is SNOW! Believe it or not, I have seen more snow this year in Portland than I've seen in my entire life (wait, this is only my second year alive during the winter--whatever.) I realize nothing compares to my midwest relatives who can actually measure the amount of the snow on the ground, but it is fun!

Hope everyone is staying warm! Ciao for now!

Couch Surfing

2007-12-30T13:23:00.000-08:00

I know I might be a little young to follow the true Portland definition of being a "couch surfer", but based on my latest discovery of couch fun--I'm sold! Don't worry mom and dad, I hope to grow out of (not in to) "couch surfing"!

Bottom line--what a blast! Mom and dad have been discussing my lack of fear quite a bit after my couch diving incidents. Is it wrong to be a thrill seeker?

**BTW, A typical "couch surfer" would be unemployed and crashing on friends couches indefinitely. Mommy and daddy have many experiences with couch surfing (ya' do know we live on the West Coast--right?)

Visions of Sugar Plums........and a FREAKY SANTA

2007-12-27T22:08:00.000-08:00

One picture. 'Nuff said.

Last year I was just a naiive young infant who didn't know any better, this year I can sniff out a scary situation better than drug dog at an airport.

Glad we got through that one. Hey wait a minute, I didn't even get to eat that candy cane!

Gettin' fit before the holidays

2007-11-27T21:23:00.000-08:00

With all the holiday goodies I am ready to partake in (whether my mom knows or not--don't forget I go to Grandma and Grandpa Lesinski's every week and I KNOW they are stocked with goodies), I thought I'd better keep up my fitness regime. Now that we are in the rainy season I don't get to the park much so I like to get my exercise by walking on the treadmill. Just today I logged a whopping 0.06 miles at 1mph! Whew, talk about a work out!

Hopefully my exercise will keep my waistline fit, us young ones can't afford to have our bellies hanging over our diapers.

Picasso who?

2007-11-21T19:46:00.001-08:00

In keeping with the Lesinski family heritage of promoting the arts, I have now taken to the canvas (well, some people call it construction paper--but whatever).

Here are a few samples of my early works (as they'll probably be called someday at the MET). I have named them "Red Hands On Yellow Paper", "Green Circles" and "Tree". Moving, isn't it?

I do love art and am so glad to take such a fun class! Wonder when we will start sculpture?

Fun at the Park

2007-11-18T08:35:00.000-08:00

Last weekend it was supposed to rain but it didn't, so my brothers and I checked out the brand new play structure at the school up the street.
We had been watching them build the thing for the last couple of weeks but it was worth the wait. Nice new red slides, fun stairs for me to climb on and a cool climbing wall for Alex and Cameron.
Daddy and I went home to get a snack to bring back to the park, and these things called "Nerf guns." My brothers sure are fun to watch when they run around shooting green foam balls at each other. I joined in by running around and yelling, and throwing the balls and some bark chips around.

Back at home, I rearranged the cupboards (something I really like to do) while Mommy made dinner. I pulled some things into my favorite corner - the one behind my high chair.

Daddy took funny pictures of me standing in one of the bowls. He said it was 'my first bowl' but I am not sure what he meant. They sure thought that was funny, though.

Halloween and Soccer

2007-11-06T18:24:00.000-08:00

I got over my jet lag and time change craziness just in time to suit up for this fun day called Halloween. Sometimes I am unclear on these weird special days that happen randomly in my life but this one was easy to understand - candy and costumes.

Mommy thought I would like to be a skunk because she calls me her little stinker. I did like the costume because it was really soft and people thought I looked cuter than usual. I wore it to two Halloween parties, to Grandma and Grandpa's and even to swimming with Lisa before I got into my swim suit. It was awesome!

I am now also in an art class and I made my first paintings by dipping matchbox cars into paints and driving them on pieces of paper. I was really proud when Mommy hung up my first painting. It made me want to make some more.

My big brothers Alex and Cameron finished their soccer seasons in October. I was bummed because I liked going to their games and running all over the place. But it's kind of dark after dinner these days and it rains too so I guess it was time to end that stuff for now.

My Trip to Ireland - Part Seven - Wrap Up

2007-11-02T15:20:00.000-07:00

At the end of our trip to the northern coast, I got to run around on the beach in Portstewart where we stayed that night. Daddy kept talking about how nice the light was for photos, but all I know is that Mommy was chasing me around, and I really like that a lot. I shriek and laugh and it makes me sleep really well at night.

We spent our last couple of nights back in Park, and then pretty soon it was time to drive back to Dublin to get on the plane (personally I'd rather get IN the plane) to fly back to the USA. It was a lot of travelling but I did pretty good with all the time changes, driving and flying.

The trip went by so fast, but it also felt like we had been gone for a long time. I was excited to see my brothers, Lisa, Grandma and Grandpa and of course the dogs. It took me a few days to get back on schedule but pretty soon I was back in business and looking forward to my next adventure...

My Trip to Ireland - Part Six - Northern Coast

2007-10-27T19:28:00.000-07:00

Near the end of our vacation, we took an overnight trip all the way to the top of Ireland to visit more family and see some cool sights.

The first place we went was this place called the Giant's Causeway. The story was that this very big giant ripped a piece of land out of Ireland (leaving a lake in its place) and threw it at Scotland.

I can really relate to that because I like to throw things too, even though I am still small. I many times will pick up stuff like a toy, shoe or even my sippy cup and throw it at the wall or at one of the dogs. It's super fun. Maybe the giant's dog was named "Scotland." I don't know.

Anyway, The Giant's Causeway is supposed to be the place where he stood when he did his throwing. It's pretty amazing. It looks like a giant version of my blocks, all laid out in a long and wide formation that stretches into the ocean. Daddy took a bunch of photos. He is such a tourist.

From there I hear we went to a place called Carrick-A-Rede, which sounds like the noise that Mommy's CDs make when I break them out of their cases. Anyway, I didn't see Carrick-A-Rede because I fell asleep in the car.

But while I napped, Mommy and Daddy made the long walk to the rope bridge that everyone was talking about, and from the pictures it looks like it was pretty short but very high. I probably could not have gone on it anyway. Aunt Therese stayed with me in the van while I slept. She's so nice.

On the way back to where we stayed that night, we stopped at a castle called Dunluce. I really liked that because I got to run all over the grass while Mommy and Aunt Kerrianne chased me around while Daddy took pictures. He said something about the place looking like the inside cover of Houses of the Holy, another record by Ted Zeppelin I guess.

Anyway, we couldn't go into the castle because it was closed. But we still got to play and breathe nice fresh air. It was very misty and pretty. It actually felt like my room when the humidifier is on. Maybe those are from Ireland?

Tomorrow I will wrap up my story of Ireland, because it's almost Halloween and I have all sorts of things to report from when we got back home too...

My Trip to Ireland - Part Five - Some Photos

2007-10-23T09:20:00.000-07:00

We all liked Park so much (I told you I liked parks) that we stayed there most of the week. Mom and Dad took a lot of photos, and here are some of my favorites. Things were so green, which is cool because that is mommy's last name (or is it Syzmonyk? - that's baby talk for 'inside joke.') Next post I will tell you all about our trip to the Northern Coast - castles, bridges and five-sided stones. Sounds kind of like a song I heard in the car one time from some guy called Ted Zeppelin.

My Trip to Ireland - Part Four - Park

2007-10-21T10:29:00.000-07:00

After we spent the night in Dublin (or was it daytime? I had no idea what time it was), we spent a really fun day in the big red van, driving to see our family in a little town in the North called Park. I like parks, so that was OK with me.

I ate lots of yummy munchies and made sure my Aunt Therese turned the overhead lights on in the van. It was important to me to have those lights on!

Uncle Paul and mommy had some trouble getting us out of Dublin, as the streets are not marked too well. But we made it, and a few hours of pretty Irish scenery later, we made it to Park.

I met my mommy's cousins Rita and Michael, who had soup waiting for us. They had a crib all set up and some fun new toys for me to play with. They are really amazing people.

I hear they run a store, hotel and even a bar where they let me pour drinks for a minute.

Mommy took me around town and I got to look at the sheep and how all the farms look like big squares with bushes for fences. I got a great night's sleep that night, and it was great to have a nice place to stay for the rest of our trip.

My Trip to Ireland - Part Three - Dublin

2007-10-16T20:37:00.000-07:00

Dublin was a very big city. I was tired from the flight but dad insisted in walking me all over the place. Like me, he'd never been to Ireland before and I guess he wanted to see as much as he could see. I fell asleep.

Actually, before our walk, we ate yummy Italian food at some place called Baritalia. We had a lot of Italian food in Ireland. I don't quite understand that but then again, I am just learning!

Next post, I will tell you about the town we stayed in and the people we met in Northern Ireland.

My Trip to Ireland - Part Two - The Flight

2007-10-11T20:13:00.000-07:00

OK, so I have been on some plane rides before (twice to Chicago and once to Washington DC) and I am a premium member of the under-two frequent flier program. But I have never had my own seat thanks to my cheapo parents (just kidding - I still love you!).

But on the plane ride to Ireland, I had my own seat. Daddy strapped my regular car seat into the airplane seat and it was great.

My family was all around me, and I kept pointing at everyone just to make sure I was not seeing things. There was Aunt Maureen, Uncle Paul, Daddy, Me, Mommy, Grandma Green and Aunt Therese, all in the same row. I could also see the TV - it was right in front of me - and made friends with some big green guy named Shrek.

I overheard Daddy say the flight was going to be seven hours long but it went fast for me. I had a good nap, ate a bunch of yummy snacks and played with some cool toys I had never seen before.

Before I knew it we were landing in Dublin Ireland, making our way out get the cool red van we rode in all week. It was just like one of my toys except we could all sit in it and our bags fit too.

Somehow my Uncle Paul got drafted into driving and I heard all sorts of interesting things come out of his mouth about having to drive on the wrong side of the road and stuff. But he did a great job and we never wrecked once.

We were all pretty tired but spent the day looking at Dublin. Daddy walked me all over the city even though I fell asleep in the stroller. Next post, I will show you some of my favorite photos from Dublin.

My Trip to Ireland - Part One - Chicago

2007-10-09T18:56:00.000-07:00

I just got back from my first trip to another country, and since I am now 15 months old, all I have to say to mom and dad is, "It's about time!"

The whole thing started a few months ago with this thing called a 'passport.' To me it was just another photo shoot, but mom said something about 'paperwork' and 'expedited fees' so I tuned out and played with some dog hair on the floor. Grown ups are silly.

Anyway, we left last week, first flying to Chicago in a big plane. That was very cool, because I rank planes as one of my favorite things of all time. No matter what I am doing, when I hear a plane, I drop everything, point at the sky and say "oooh." Then I wave. We stayed for a couple of days at Grandma's house so mommy could go to something called a 'high school reunion.' I got to go to the park and point at lots and lots of planes. Did I tell you I like to point at planes?

I also got to see some of my family who could not go to Ireland with us, who came over to watch me practice my sign language and peekaboo skills. I can now say "more" "thank you" and "please" using sign language. Not bad considering I couldn't really walk until a couple of months ago! I have a lot of family in Chicago so I had plenty of catching up to do before we left.

There is so much more to tell but I am tired so I will post again later about my BIG plane ride to Ireland.

Fun at the Beach - Labor Day!

2007-09-24T19:04:00.000-07:00

Earlier this month I made my first trip to the ocean for a long weekend with mom, dad, and my big brothers. The car was packed. Mommy looked warm with both dogs on her lap, but I had lots of room in my awesome car seat.

The beach was even better than my brothers said it would be. It was the biggest sandbox I have ever seen! I got in a lot of walking practice and played in the sand. I threw a few sticks around. Life is good.

Mom and dad rented a big house with a hot tub and a fire pit, and dad took me for a long walk every morning in the three wheel stroller.

It was Bailey's first trip to the beach too and she chased the ball until we all thought she was going to fall over. But she still had enough energy to take food out of my hand when I was done eating.

The ocean sure is big. It made me think that maybe there is more to life than pooping and my soft blankie.

Mom and dad took loads of photos and here are some of my favorites:

Catching Up

2007-09-05T20:17:00.000-07:00

Wow, I have not posted in a couple of months. It's been a busy summer and I guess learning to walk and say "Dog" in sign language took so much out of me, I didn't make the time to do my regular Web entries. Sorry about that. What is sign language for "bad blog etiquette?"

Where to start?

Well, I took a fun plane ride out to Washington DC to spend the 4th of July holiday with my Aunt Heidi and Uncle John, my cousins Dan and Emily and four large dogs. Did I tell you I can say "Dog" in sign language?

We saw all of these cool building called "monuments" and things called "memorials" for people who fought in wars or something. We swam in the pool non stop and went on some hikes and of course saw fireworks. Man are those things loud! All I could do was point and say "oooh" but that is what everyone else was doing, so I felt grown up.

The plane rides were fun too, and right when we got off the plane I got to sit in the car facing forward. Man, is that cool! The view out the front of the car is so much more interesting than the back of the seat.

I also went to my first Major League Baseball game - The Nationals played the Cubs and mommy's team won (that would be the Cubs). I liked the yummy food and all of the lights. My brothers liked the snow cones that turned their mouths blue for two days.

And of course, I turned one years old and got turned on to this stuff called 'cake.' I can't wait for next year so I can have some more!

The rest of the summer has been great. Since we got home I have gone to the Zoo a bunch of times. Lisa takes me on the Zoo Train and I love the wind in my curly hair. I also made friends with an orangutang who puts his hand on the glass when I put mine up there too. Fun!

There is a lot more but I am tired. It's time to go night night with my soft blankie. I will post more soon.

Hangin' with my ladies

2007-06-25T10:02:00.000-07:00

So this weekend I attended a birthday party where I was outnumbered by girls 4 to 1! Not bad odds, huh? It was really fun--I got to pet a pony named Rocky! I thought it was a dog and got excited when I saw him and kept saying "dog", but mommy corrected me and told me it was actually a pony (thankfully none of the girls heard me call Rocky a dog--what a silly mistake :)

We also played on some really cool blocks! All the girls were really nice and we laughed and enjoyed the sun for at least an hour. After the outdoor play we went inside to have cake and snacks. I think I discovered my new favorite food--chocolate cake!

So many adventures so little time....

2007-06-24T07:52:00.000-07:00

I can't believe it's been a whole month since I last sat down to update my friends! How deprived you must feel. My apologies. So much has happened in the last month I'm not sure where to begin :)

First I'll report about my follow up play date with Kate! Kate and her mommy came to my house and we had lunch together then played with toys. I started out showing her the refrigerator magnets, then I threw a block at Kate (I think she secretly liked it), then plowed over her while she was crawling through the frog tunnel. A great success, wouldn't you agree?

My mom kept saying something about manners, but since I am not sure what that means I chose to ignore her. I did blow Kate a kiss at the end of our visit so that should count for something, right?

The day after my play date, my Godparents Dave and Sherry came over for a visit. It had been way too long since I saw them and I was so happy to spend the day with them. Auntie Sherry helped me crawl up my new slide and Uncle David threw me in the air and made me laugh. They are so much fun! Auntie Sherry always gives me lots o' kisses which I love!

My brothers are on something called summer vacation. I don't know the meaning of this summer vacation, but now they are able to play all day instead of going to school and that makes me happy! Lisa took us to the library and swimming all in one day! We had so much fun, I laughed so hard all day that I had to take extra long naps because I was so tired. Mommy and daddy also took us swimming and we had such a great time. I got to ride down the water slide with daddy! Mommy was waiting at the bottom, and she could tell by the look on my face that it was one of the most fun things I've done in my 11 3/4 months here! Wonder if me and Alex & Cameron could lobby to get our own water slide in the back yard? Just a thought.........

We also celebrated Father's Day! We all got daddy a new BBQ grill and torches for the back yard. We all helped daddy out in the yard (well mostly Alex and Cameron), then went to Grandma and Grandpa's for a visit.

I told you I had a busy month! Stay tuned for more postings as we are on our way to Washington D.C. on Thursday and we are all so excited! I am meeting my Uncle John, Aunt Heidi, cousins Dan and Emily for the first time. Mommy said they are so nice and knows I will have a great time.

Oh, and while we are there---guess who is turning ONE!? ME!!!!!! It's hard to believe a mere 12 months ago I was camped out in mommy's tummy not wanting to greet the world (I was late in arrival). Now, I am having the time of my life :)

The Garden of Good and ............

2007-05-29T20:52:00.000-07:00

A weekend chock full o' fun... I think I like this Memorial Day!

I helped mommy plant a new herb garden, then we played in the yard with the dogs. I took the ball from Bailey, threw it then yelled at her when she ran away with it.

We also went to a few bbq's where I continued to expand my food palette. Mommy doesn't even bother packing the boring jar food anymore since I eat like such a big boy (and have 6 teeth to chew with!). Some of my favorite things to eat include scrambled eggs, kiwi fruit, avocado, beans, ravioli, sweet potatoes and of course Cheerios. There's something about those O's!

I should also mention that I like to eat my alphabet refrigerator magnets my daddy bought me. For some reason I think the "S" tastes the best :) Actually, I took to the refrigerator magnets in the hopes that I could kick the crib chewing habit. Tough stuff--good thing I have a good support network (and newly installed plastic covers) to help me get off the hard stuff. So far so good--ya' know one day at a time.

My Brother Is A Stud

2007-05-20T10:41:00.000-07:00

Check out my brother Alex pulling off a major league quality slide into home last weekend. He and my other brother Cameron are having a great season and it's very fun to watch them on the field. Baseball at its finest!

Me and my mommy

2007-05-20T09:59:00.000-07:00

I wanted to add that my mom is so pretty. I was feeling like crumbs when daddy took this picture but I think she looks very nice! Also note the newly stained fence in the background. Yes, daddy is finally getting around to all those yard projects he has been talking about since I was born...

Melrose Place and Flu

2007-05-20T08:47:00.000-07:00

Wow, I had my first real flu and boy was it a doosey. I woke up last Friday and had all sorts of fluids coming out of me. I'll spare the details, but needless to say I spent the weekend laying on my mom and dad as they attempted to keep me hydrated. On Mother's Day I napped all day on my mom and caught up on Melrose Place season 2. Because I was so out of it, Mommy was able to finish the whole season. If I wasn't so sick I would think this was a good gift for her! Here is a picture of me trying to eat a cracker, which wasn't so easy in my condition. Whatever I had, I wouldn't wish on my worst enemy. Thankfully no one else in the house caught it!

I finally came out of it about a week later. We spent this weekend going to my brother's baseball games and if the rumors are true today we will go for a walk.

Cheers! Make sure you are taking your vitamins!

My Date With Kate

2007-04-23T19:57:00.000-07:00

Well, it's official, I had my first date. A little early some might say, but given the fact that I was practically 10 months old I felt totally ready (plus our parents supervised) :)

Kate's mom Nicole and my mom go way back, and as matter of fact Kate and I were due on the same day! However, Kate beat me to this world--what a go-getter!

A few weeks ago we went to Baby Disco at the Crystal Ballroom. There were DJ's that spun records and all the kids danced and played with scarves, hula-hoops, and little shakers made from plastic eggs. Kate and I kind of ignored each other (silly games) but I generally got the sense that she dug me, especially when I aggressively grabbed an egg from her.

All and all a success, I think she'll agree to see me again even if we both ended up a little cranky after the event.

Unsolved Mysteries--The Easter Bunny

2007-04-10T21:02:00.000-07:00

So there was all this talk last week about someone called "The Easter Bunny". I'm not sure who this bunny person is, but they brought me and my brothers baskets filled with goodies!

We did an Easter egg hunt after church on Sunday (did I mention how I like to yell at the top of my lungs during the quiet times of mass? I don't cry, because then we might have to go home--but I talk VERY loudly until mommy takes me into the quiet room with all the toys. Boy, is she easy to train, works like a charm every time....sorry, I digress) ANYWAY, we started to do the egg hunt and discovered that our dogs Bailey and Roxy had found the eggs before we did! Busted! Mom caught the evidence on film--check it out:

There were still plenty of eggs for us to find in the yard. I let Alex and Cameron find most of them since they seemed a little more eager to find the eggs then I did.

When we brought the plastic eggs inside my brothers showed me what these things were all about.

I played with the empty eggs for a long time, I found this to be

just as much fun as shredding paper. It was a lot less messy

for my mom AND I couldn't fit these into my mouth. Overall a win-win for everyone.

Later in the day I decided to practice my new exercise of stair climbing. With all the practice I am getting mommy said I'm going to have a nicer bootie than J-Lo! I climbed up the stairs unassisted 5 times in a row. I fear this practice will be coming to an end as there is constant chatter between mom and dad about the need for something called gates. Doesn't sound too good.

Overall it was a great week! Now that I have mastered the crawl I am pulling myself up on everything that doesn't move. So far I've only drawn blood once from a fall, so it's looking promising!

Hope everyone had a great Easter and if possible could you drop my mom a note and ask her not to put those embarrassing bunny ears on me next year? I need all the help I can get.

Gabe out.

Me and my peeps

2007-03-29T20:51:00.000-07:00

First I'd like to give a shout out to a couple of special people on their birthday. HAPPY BIRTHDAY GRANDPA LESINSKI, AUNT MAUREEN! Isn't it fun that they share the same birthday? Hopefully they will both have a great day, as I hear birthday's can be quite fun(since I haven't had a real birthday yet I am going on what I have heard). Also, HAPPY(belated) 18TH to my cousin Emily! I haven't met Emily yet, but am looking forward to meeting her this summer when I visit Uncle John and Aunt Heidi.

I was happy to see my mom come home from Germany.

I did try and stow away in the suitcase, but she noticed me. Not sure how--she sure is smart (and did I mention pretty, too?). Next time I think I'll try and wear all black and maybe I'll blend better.

I spent a lot of this week learning how to pull myself up on things and I am even trying to stand. This process also comes with real battle wounds like the bruise on my head from one of my failed attempts at standing. I think it makes me look cool, and I hardly even cried! I overheard mommy saying to daddy "....this is when the fun begins...." I know this is fun for me, but I didn't realize it would be fun for them too! How great!

Signing off for now, we pee-wee's need our beauty sleep.

Pictures from spring break week. My brothers with their Lincoln Log battle (those are soon to be mine--hee hee hee). Also, me and my dogs.

P.S. Did you know if you click on the picture you can see it in a larger size?

Catching Up...

2007-03-18T08:16:00.001-07:00

Wow, it's been a while since my last post - lots has been going on. First off, I adjusted to my very first time change. It only took me a few days to realize that 6 PM was now 7 PM – OK, whatever! The grownups do a lot of strange thing but changing time? Come on!

I also got over a nasty bug that made me not want to eat or even drink that much. I am not sure where I caught it, but I know I got good revenge because I gave it to a lot of people in return! I was very happy to finally get a bath after being sick, but I gotta say, I felt like a big watermelon or something, sitting in the kitchen sink!

Here I am going over some agenda items with mom – I was not pleased to see my visits with Grandma moved due to make up swim classes!

Lisa has been taking me to music class, and to the indoor play park at the Mall. She also bought me a great new drum and I am starting a drum circle with the little Deadhead babies from sign language class.

Aside from that, I have just been generally more busy and curious. My crawling is transitioning from me pulling myself across the floor to getting my rear in the air and doing it proper. But whatever the method, I can get around pretty well on my own and like to make mom and dad chase me around into my ‘unauthorized areas.’

One more picture to share - last weekend, Dad took my brothers to the snow. Looks like they had a lot of fun but I don't think I would have been able to crawl around in all that powder! Maybe next year.

Mom is off to Germany today so that means I will be hanging out with Dad all week. Good thing I am Jonesing to hear some Marillion, Tool and old Who!

It's a bird....It's a plane.....It's.......

2007-03-07T20:41:00.000-08:00

Here's me high above Portland....pretty cool, huh? Lisa took me for a ride on the new tram and even though I look super cute I thought all my faithful readers out there would also like to see a cool view of Portland.

That same day I also went to the park and played on the swings! We in the Pacific Northwest know the value of a sunny day during the winter (at least that is what my mom and dad always say), so thankfully I could take advantage of it!

Last weekend also proved to be nice, so mommy and daddy took me for a long walk around one of Portland's great parks. I got tired of being in the stroller so daddy had to carry me for awhile (sucka!) it was really just a ploy to get hugs :)

In other news, I still am working my tail off at crawling. My latest move looks a lot like my mom's favorite yoga pose--the Downward Dog. Maybe I learned this during mommy's pre-natal yoga? Naw, I was too busy sleeping. Whatever the move, I am working diligently at mastering this crawling thing.

I still attend music and signing classes every week. Here are two picture of me happy doing what I like to do. I guess I should explain since the picture on the right looks like I am doing nothing....look closely, I am picking at a thread in the carpet. I love to use my little fingers as pinchers and grab threads and stuff. Strange? I don't think so, at least I'm not eating boogers like the other kids in class. The picture on the left is me singing along with the teacher. Already I am proving to be a brown nose in class, quite the opposite of my mom I hear.

This blogging is hard work. Last night daddy caught me working away (before I could finish my masterpiece--a writer should never be distracted mid stream).

Hope all is well out there. Signing off from me and my two teeth, G-love

Life of a Jetsetter

2007-02-27T20:43:00.000-08:00

So I've been a little busy lately with travel and unable to keep up with my blog, maybe someday I can hire a staff to assist with my administration...........but for now I juggle my responsibilities.

I went on yet another airplane ride! I really do enjoy flying and have proven to be a great travel companion (If I do say so myself). Mommy, Daddy, Carrie and I flew to Lake Tahoe where we met Grandma Green and Aunt Maureen. It is so beautiful there and I hope to be a frequent visitor :) I kept Grandma and Aunt Maureen very entertained with my crawling, sitting up and talking (granted we don't quite speak the same language yet, but I am trying to teach them as best I can!)

Here is a picture of me and Aunt Maureen overlooking the lake. See how gorgeous it is? (yes, and you are too Aunt Maureen).

The other picture is Grandma giving me a giant smooch, and even though I was trying to look cool in my hip hop hoodie, I still enjoyed getting lot's of kisses since I don't get to see Grandma G all the time.

On the way home I made friends with the flight attendant and waved to her! I've never done that before which leads mommy to believe I already have a soft spot for nice pretty ladies. I'm not sure what the influence was (perhaps one too many bottles on the runway?), but I executed such a fine wave even the Queen Mum herself would be proud.

Lately I have just been chillin at home. I am very lucky to have brothers and dogs that keep me entertained and show me a lot of lovin (and occasionally I get the same from mom and dad).

Long live rock,

G

Whew, what a week!

2007-02-14T20:57:00.000-08:00

Hey all, thought I'd catch up mid-week since so many exciting things have happened already (and it's only Wednesday!).

First, let me start with Happy Valentine's Day! Lisa brought over a giant balloon and stuffed animal to get my day started. I think balloons are one of the things I love the most (well, maybe after chewing on things, and my soft blankie, and playing with my blocks, and laughing at my brothers, and kisses from my mom and dad) O.K., let's just say I like balloons A LOT.

You may not have noticed in my picture, but I cut another tooth! Yes, I was waking every 2-3 hours for a reason (not just to produce bags under my parent's eyes). Actually, I went quite easy on them if you ask me--only 2 nights of interrupted sleep. I don't think I am ready for a toothbrush yet, but should be showing off my pearly white (well now it is white(s)) very soon. Stay tuned for more pictures of my choppers.

Lastly, I started my first swim class on Monday. Boy, is that fun! I got dunked under water a few times and instead of crying I smiled and kicked my feet like a true dedicated student!

We did all sorts of cool stuff in the class; I floated on my back, we sang a few songs and splashed around, I bobbed up and down, and generally just got used to being in the water. Oh yeah and did I mention the 2 five month old hotties in pink bikini's? And mommy thinks I was just smiling because I loved the water.........

So as I said previously this has been a pretty exciting week so far. The next couple of days I hope to take it easy as I am going to Lake Tahoe with Mommy and Daddy and we are meeting Aunt Maureen and Grandma Green there. This will be my 3rd time on an airplane--how lucky am I?

Signing off for now.

Yours in drool, Baby G

Hellooo out there......

2007-02-08T21:38:00.000-08:00

Hello cyber world, I am ready to take my first ride on the information highway! Even though my daddy is kind of a computer geek (shhh, don't tell anyone only mommy is supposed to know that) this is the first time I am making a go at it. Honestly, I don't see all the rage...but I guess until I learn how to record music and shop for cool CD's on the computer, an online journal will have to do.

I'll start with an update of what kinds of things I have going on right now. Probably my biggest news is that I have a tooth! Well, it's not a full tooth (my daddy says it looks more like a piece of rice) but it's getting there. I can't quite chew a steak yet, but I am getting good practice gnawing on my toys.

The other big thing I am doing is scooting. Other than picking up piles of dog hair all over my face and clothes every time I cruise around, I really like it.

What a workout! If only mommy could work up that kind of sweat she wouldn't have to worry about losing that remaining baby weight. Needless to say, it's only a matter of time before my parents are chasing me around (hee hee).

Notice the determination in my face--I take this job very seriously.

Lastly, I'm more than ever enjoying the silly antics of my brothers. Who knew these dudes were so funny? That's it for now, thanks for reading. Stay tuned for an upcoming weekend recap.