Brush'a-Brush'a-Brush'a

Now that Jagger has almost 4 whole teeth, I decided it was time to start teaching him how to brush them...

he's a quick study!  (Notice: his finger is actually INSIDE the "toothbrush" like it is supposed to be)

A little Arkansas dirt

Was smitten with his cousin Edy (8 months his senior), she however, was not too interested in his charms...

he even made her cry a few times, but he of course tried to make it up to her the best he could.

He got in the flower pots, and (FINALLY) got to try a little dirt for the first time,

yes, he loved it! Mommy was excited.

He gots lots and lots of his favorite things; LOVE and attention. 
From Grandmommy and Grandpa:

Uncle Caleb and Aunt Hannah:

Uncle Josh:

and Uncle Luke and Aunt Caitlan:

He even developed a new friend (the Grandparents new cat, aptly named "Meow-meow", by cousin Edy):

After 6 months of not visiting, we had an amazing time catching up.
We were all in for exciting news to discover that Aunt Hannah is due with baby #2 in Nov! Of course she is as beautiful as ever and already in the second trimester and you can barely tell! We can't wait for another little Hall!

The countdown begins (7 weeks) until Florida. The entire Smith clan (Aud, Noah and Abel included) will all be together for the first time in over a year. 
Can't wait!

First Mother's Day

Every day is Mother's day for me.  I am spoiled by this amazing little boy!

Sunday Brunch

Last weekend Jacob was home (a rare treat), and we were able to grab some delectable brunch with friends. It was noisy, busy, and booming; but I guess in the comfort of your daddy's arms you can sleep through anything!

8 Months

So, blogging isn't exactly my strength...and quite frankly, almost every photo on here is from my phone. I am far from the artsy mom types who seem ready to capture every cute moment on film.  But lucky for me, I have a phone and do my best! Here are a few moments I wanted to share of Jagger at 8 months.

STANDING...on his own.  He is strong, sweet, independent and adorable!

WALKING FURNITURE.  We have this game where I get on all fours and he "runs" away via the furniture while laughing uncontrollably.  He can manuver himself pretty effortlessly through our condo now.

CRAWLING INTO SMALL SPACES.  Enough said.  He can get himself in, but not always out. 

We are smitten.

Easter

A little late, but I really loved this pic. He was so excited to wake up at my parents and find this Easter basket that was bigger than he. I wish you could see the balloon, it was a giant "Peep", and many hours of entertainment. Next year, I am hoping for an Easter egg hunt! 

Hawaii--A few snapshots

First Tooth

Jacob discovered this the 17th while we were sitting oceanside at Duke's having breakfast in Hawaii.  We were thrilled. It was a great day, and will remain another sweet St. Paddy's memory!

(Insider tip: St. Patrick's Day is special to us for many reasons including our first kiss, the day he proposed and now this).

Kentucky

Jacob had to work on his birthday this year, and so Jagger and I packed a bag and hopped his flight to help him celebrate.  We had the joy of all being together while discovering beautiful Lexington, KY. We were treated to great weather, sunshine, (grass!), history, and a day to adore the most amazing, wonderful man we are blessed enough to call husband and daddy! What a great day it was.

Spring? Ha.

Well in a desperate attempt to indugle in some sunshine, and escape the cage of our condo for the outdoors...I dragged Jagger to the park.  If you notice the large snowy landscape in the background, you can imagine it was far from warm.  He HATED it. (the cold). Can you tell?  We didn't last too long at the park.  Please come Spring. We want to play outside again.

First Bloody Nose

Crawling and standing-up while having not quite yet perfected the art of sitting; then landing face first on hardwood floors, made for a sad day and one of many (I am sure) bloody noses. 

West Coast Lovin'

Last week Jagger and I hit the road to see some of our west coast friends and family.  I took very few pictures to prove it, but we had an amazing time.  Jagger got to add a few new states to his map (at 7 months old he has now visited 10 states-layovers not counting). 
Jacob joined us in California and we got to spend some quality time with Audrey, Noah and Abel.  Best of all, Abel and Jagger got plenty of play time together.  Jagger proved his love of pounding out some notes on the baby piano. That he loves being outside. That nothing is better than riding in a red flyer wagon when daddy is pulling it...except sleeping in it. (Who wouldn't with such a comfortable cousin to lay on?) And of course, that cousin Abel is so much fun to play with. We adults had quite a great time too.
To all my Salt Lake City and Vegas friends...I miss you already.  We hope to be back soon!