The Peterson Post

Thankschristmas/Christgiving in Santa Rosa

2010-01-13T09:11:00.000-08:00

We had so much fun celebrating both holidays with Scott's family in Santa Rosa, Calif. Dave, Jill and family were such great hosts and we squeezed a lot of fun family time into 5 days. A highlight was a picnic and wine tasting at a nearby winery. Here's Grandma Pat with all of her grandkids in the vineyards.
Lindsay enjoyed watching movies with her cousins. Uncles Dave and Chris rigged up a family room theather for them to enjoy (w/ a sheet and an LCD projector)

We had a fiesta for Grandma Pat's birthday - complete with a pinata. Lindsay had fun taking her turn. And, all the kids had to pose with their loot.
The classic Thanksgiving stairwell portrait - 7 cousins! Back row(L-R) Keegan, Andrew, Joey. Middle row (L-R) Matthew, Caidyn, Grady.

At Long Last!

2010-01-13T08:47:00.000-08:00

When we were in N. California celebrating "Thankschristmas" with Scott's family I finally had the chance to meet my dear friend Jennifer Hearn's little boy, Samuel. Sadly, the rest of my pictures were lost in a downloading accident. Lindsay had so much fun meeting Jennifer, Brian and Samuel as well but I don't have those pictures to share.

I would never tire of this view!

Pumpkin Time

2009-10-12T04:53:00.000-07:00

We had so much fun going to Didier Farms with the Hubert family yesterday. Lindsay and Tommy (HOMMY - as Lindsay affectionately calls him) had lots of fun checking out the pumpkins, teepees, farm animals and rides. We even took them on a horse-drawn hayride (pics of that later) and Tommy did a pony ride. The adults enjoyed the long-awaited cider donuts!

Tumbling Tot

2009-10-03T17:52:00.000-07:00

Lindsay had fun at her first gymnastics class with Chicago Park District. There was so much to check out that she was kind of overstimulated but I think she'll get better at following directions, etc. as we continue to go each week. She especially loved the horse/slide and rings!

"School Days" & Soon-to-be-Halloween

2009-10-03T17:43:00.000-07:00

I think Lindsay looks so cute and grown up in this little number. It is almost as if she's headed to kindergarten. You can see she had a lot of fun opening up her Halloween package from Grandma & Grandpa Lindsay!

Aunt Jamie in the House!

2009-09-25T16:52:00.000-07:00

My best girlfriend from growing up visited us this week in Chicago. It was so much fun to get to spend time with her. Lindsay loved the darling outfit Aunt Jamie brought her. She is such a squirmer it was hard to get a good shot!

And, we all had so much fun together at the zoo. Aren't these pics of the two blondies too cute for words?

German Fest

2009-09-25T16:46:00.000-07:00

Lindsay loved dancing to the band at German fest. Scott and I enjoyed some pretzels and German food...

One of Lindsay's favorite things to do now is spin around like a ballerina until she gets dizzy and falls down. Here she is winding up...

Labor Day at Starved Rock

2009-09-25T16:36:00.000-07:00

We had a great day hiking at Starved Rock over Labor Day weekend. After a scene in the parking lot, Lindsay settled into her backpack chariot and pretty happily stayed there for three hours. Thanks to Matt & Lili for letting us use it - awesome!

Now the trick will be to go again soon so she remembers she likes it.

The view. This is a great place for Chicago families to go for easy hiking. It is only about 1.25 hours from the city and almost all of the trails are covered in wooden walkways.

Great Fun with Grandma & Grandpa Lindsay

2009-08-27T08:50:00.000-07:00

My parents saved the day and came to help us with childcare needs for 1.5 weeks in August. For Lindsay, it was a wonderful summer vacation in the city with "the spoilers". Their adventures documented here included: The Farm at Lincoln Park Zoo, going out to brunch, playing with water on the front porch, eating Frosties (can you tell how much Lindsay liked it?), going to a Little Miss Ann Wiggleworms concert in Millennium Park & playing in the fountain there and enjoying a new obsession: coloring with the coloring supplies from Grandma & Grandpa.

Honky Tonk Woman

2009-08-09T17:01:00.000-07:00

Scott, Lindsay and I went to one of the free outdoor concerts in the North Center Square last week. It was a country/honky tonk concert and Lindsay really had fun dancing to the music.

Cutie Courtesy of The Gassaway Family

2009-08-05T11:31:00.000-07:00

The ever stylish Gassaways (parents Tom & Virginia and sister Carrie of my lifelong friend Eric) sent Lindsay this darling summer lounge suit when she was born.

I am so excited it finally fits. She is looking very "South Beach" in this number!

A Ski Trip (Use Your Imagination)

2009-08-05T10:47:00.000-07:00

Today Amanda and I took our girls to the park. I think these pictures of Charlie "driving" the fire engine (and Lindsay along for the ride) are hilarious. I think you have to consider them a mini series... "I have to put the pedal to the medal," said Charlie. "Hold on, Lindsay!"

"Pipe down in the backseat! I have to concentrate arond this turn!" (I'm envisioning them on the outskirts of Denver starting the hairpin turns in the mountains for a ski weekend).

"Uh, oh...I think I just hit that ice patch a bit too quickly. It is not funny, Lindsay!"

"Whew, that was close. Now it should be smooth sailing, Lindsay."

Lindsay takes the wheel.

Both girls doing their "out" motion for Itsy Bitsy Spider.

Millennium Park Fun

2009-08-05T10:10:00.000-07:00

After checking out the new wing at the Chicago Art Institute last weekend, we had a fantastic plan to finally take Lindsay to the famous Millennium Park fountains. It was fantastic until it started raining right when we arrived. I included these first three pictures to show scale...

Fun with Daddy...

Splashing in the puddles was more interesting to Lindsay than seeing the fountain.

Marathon Walk

2009-07-30T10:53:00.001-07:00

I took Lindsay on an 8+-mile walk this morning, including a visit to Montrose Harbor. Lindsay was very excited to see the boats but annoyed that she couldn't get in the agua (as she called it). Here we're looking south and you can see the city skyline in the distance.

Lindsay's boat view from her stroller.

She is also very into trying to apply her "block" these days.

And, Little Miss is all about the products. She is always begging to wear my lip gloss.

I put in this shot because it shows the hair (that really is growing, I promise) on top of her head.

Boyfriend Pool Afternoon

2009-07-28T13:47:00.000-07:00

Our friends Julie, Matt and their son Tommy (Lindsay's boyfriend) came over for a BBQ and some fun in the sun Sunday afternoon. This picture pretty much recaps pool time: Tommy playing nicely with all of the pool toys and Lindsay climbing in and out of the pool repeatedly and drinking the pool water.

I did mangae to get this one picture of both of them semi-facing the camera.

Thanks for coming to play, Tommy! Lindsay and Tommy also had fun playing the piano together but I didn't get any good shots. I'll post them when Julie & Matt share with me.

Park Time

2009-07-28T13:32:00.000-07:00

Scott, Grandma Pat, Lindsay and I all went to a park with a water park feature on Saturday. Lindsay was a little young for lots of the elements but she loved filling her bucket in all of the waterfalls/fire hoses...

...and splashing in the water.

Fun with Grandma Pat.

Daddy got in on the action too.

Foster Avenue Beach Day

2009-07-28T13:20:00.000-07:00

Last Tuesday, all of the moms' groups from my church gathered at a local beach. It was the perfect day weather-wise and tons of moms & kids participated.

In these pictures, Lindsay is clowning around with her friend Charlie (notice their color coordination).

Lindsay always gets a big kick out of trying to play with the big kids. Here she is hanging out with a few of my friends' kids, Abby & Audrey.

Lindsay and I are definately going to have to hit this beach again. It is only about 10 minutes from our house!

Hello Auntie Beverly & Uncle Noel

2009-07-19T12:52:00.000-07:00

My piano teacher and her husband sent Lindsay this darling outfit for her first birthday.

It was her Sunday best for church and brunch today.

As usual, she was "hamming it up" for passersby at brunch.

Cubs vs. Cards

2009-07-19T12:45:00.000-07:00

We had fun taking my parents to Wrigley for a Cubs/Cards game last weekend. It was my mom's first time! They enjoyed the local Cub's passion with a few "Red Bird, Dead Bird" jeers on the street and bus.

Ultimately, their team was victorious which was sad for Scott (and me too since my parents call me a traitor/Cub's fan).

Bye Bye Canadian Lindsays

2009-07-19T12:36:00.000-07:00

Lindsay was sad to see Uncle Matt, Aunt Lili, Connor & Brendan go back to Toronto. She had so much fun with them!

Thanks Grandma & Grandpa

2009-07-06T10:03:00.000-07:00

We had a great time at the farm!

Lindsay's Two Faces

2009-07-06T09:55:00.000-07:00

Excited and yes, "playing" with matches...

...pensive, watching Connor & Brendan light fireworks.

Love at First Bite

2009-07-06T09:33:00.000-07:00

Lindsay had a little taste of heaven when we shared our s'mores with her. The reality is that she probably polished off a whole s'more herself.

Notice how she grabbed...
...and chased us for more...

...and was terrified when the sugary bliss ended!

Fun Times in the Farm Yard

2009-07-06T09:27:00.000-07:00

Too bad the weather was bad. Grandma & Grandpa had all sorts of special toys for Lindsay to enjoy in the yard. She loved talking on the phone in her kitchen...

...and taking her doll for a ride in the mini wagon.

And of course, she loved going down the "SIDE" time after time!

Cousins Forever!

2009-07-06T08:37:00.000-07:00

We headed to our family farm in Salem, IL for the Fourth of July holiday. Lindsay hadn't seen her Lindsay-side cousins since Christmas so she had a ball. Here she is posing with Connor & Brendan (all wearing their holiday outfits from Grandma & Grandma).

Lindsay was mezmerized with Connor reading her bedtime stories.

She loved how Brendan did sparklers and pop-its.

Since it rained most of the trip - this was a pretty common scene. The big boys were so nice to let Lindsay join in their fun.

Dads & Daughters on the Fun Slide

2009-06-30T13:04:00.000-07:00

The girls loved this "ride". Jeff and Scott seemed to as well...

Moms and daughters at the top of the slide.

Merry Go Round Trauma

2009-06-30T12:55:00.000-07:00

We took the girls to a carnival in our neighborhood. Who knew this would cause such fuss from Lindsay? We thought she'd like her first Merry Go Round whirl. Clingy...

Scared...

Finally happy (although at this point we're getting off)...

Swinging, Sliding and Splashing

2009-06-30T12:25:00.000-07:00

Well, that was the plan. We went to a park with a "spray pool" but the water was freezing so the girls didn't really jump in. They did manage to swing together...

Slide together...

This picture is for you, Jeff. I think Mary looks pretty cool in these shades of Lindsay's.

Playtime with Mary & Aunt Betsy

2009-06-30T11:55:00.000-07:00

We had such a great visit with our dear friends Betsy, Jeff & Mary Borchers last weekend. Here are the girls playing in Lindsay's favorite new spot.

Sweet Mary...

Mary brought Lindsay a water and bath baby just like hers. She loved it!

Fun in the Sun

2009-06-25T19:16:00.000-07:00

Lindsay loved wearing her new swimsuit from Grandma Pat today! It is darling...

I tried to get her to help me water the flowers but she had the most fun watering herself.

We got Lindsay a "baby pool". She enjoyed splashing a bit but got out pretty quickly. The hose water was cold so she'll probably enjoy it more tomorrow when the water is warmer from sitting overnight.

A little dance break.

The whole shebang...

Thanks Mom & Dad (Grandma & Grandpa)

2009-06-25T19:12:00.000-07:00

My parents were recently visiting. Well, more like working themselves to death at our house. With their help, we got lots of big painting and organizing projects done. We are so grateful. We were so busy this is the only shot I got of them with Lindsay.

P-Jammy Time

2009-06-25T19:05:00.000-07:00

Lindsay's friend Charlie Bischoff was the only other wee one at a recent small group BBQ at our place.

The girls both sported cute pajamas. They also did a lot of goofing off/showing off. Too bad I couldn't get a good shot of them together...

Ribfest Laughs

2009-06-16T20:00:00.000-07:00

Lindsay had her "Aunties" Kari & Jessica wrapped around her little finger on Sunday. We all checked out the Northcenter Ribfest street festival and Kari snapped this picture of Lindsay on the way there. Funny none of us ate ribs - but we did enjoy some cold beer and hot funnel cakes!

Sunday Best

2009-06-14T11:25:00.000-07:00

We thought Lindsay looked cute in this green number today (and notice the bow that is staying in more these days). Although, she LOVES to squat so we couldn't get her to stand in the photos.

Lindsay loves to demonstrate her squeezing skills (too bad you don't have the benefit of audio - she also grunts when she's doing this move).

Modeling her sunglasses...

...and mom's sunglasses!

Lemonade Out of Lemons

2009-06-13T14:01:00.000-07:00

I think my friend Julie said it best when she said this re: us having turning our Ravinia kids concert plans into an indoor picnic today. Best laid plans... Having not been to Ravinia, Lindsay and Tommy didn't know what they were missing. Here they are making their own music.

Tommy enjoys the play stroller - even pushing fruit!

Check out my drum! And, I'm modeling the dress Tommy & his parents got me for my birthday!

This looks like a recreation of Lindsay hanging out with Bruce! She was begging to sit next to Matt (she knows she needs to kiss up to her boyfriend's parents).

Ahhh, the apple of Lindsay's eye:)

Thank You Scott!

2009-06-13T13:50:00.000-07:00

I had a wonderful time visiting several of my close friends in NY, NY last weekend. I appreciate Scott being Superdad and encouraging me to get away. Here I am with Colleen & Jamie on the Brooklyn side w/ Manhattan in the background.

Speaking of backgrounds....here is a cool one.
Enjoying before dinner drinks with Kip & Patrick...

With Jamie in front of a fun outdoor installment at one of the art galleries we visited in Chelsea.

A Day in the Life

2009-06-02T11:37:00.000-07:00

Lindsay is obsessed (like most children) with cell phones. But at least I was able to use mine as a way to snap a few shots of her. I thought she looked cute in this outfit today.

As you can see she is also REALLY into squatting. She must have buns and quads of steel!

She moves so fast!

OK, Mom, we can leave after I make just one more phone call...

Maifest with My Boyfriend

2009-06-01T06:37:00.000-07:00

Scott and I met up with our friend Julie to hit one of our neighborhood's German Festivals - Maifest. We enjoyed some brews and pretzels and adult conversation while Lindsay and her boyfriend Tommy had fun entertaining each other in their strollers. Clapping...

Singing!

Isn't Lindsay's main squeeze handsome? He is looking SO grown up these days. Must be his hair and his height - two areas where sweet pea is a bit challenged!

Congratulations Diane & Josh

2009-06-01T06:22:00.000-07:00

We had so much fun celebrating the marriage of our dear friends Diane Kamil & Josh Berin. We had the night "off" while Grandma & Grandpa stayed with Lindsay. It was so nice to sleep in a bit. I wish I managed to get a picture of the beautiful bride and wonderful couple.

Goats & Guinnea Pigs At the St. Louis Zoo

2009-06-01T05:59:00.000-07:00

St. Louis has a great Children's Zoo and Grandma and Grandpa took our family there over Memorial Day weekend. Lindsay loved the animals, but the question became, did the animals love her?

In these shots, she's chasing the goats...

...eventually, she was fed up with her multiple failed attempts at prolonged petting!

But then, she met the guinnea pigs who were more tolerant.

You can see how much she loved them. Here she's giving them one of her signature "loveys".

Introducing...Jessica James

2009-05-29T20:05:00.000-07:00

My dear friend Beth had a beautiful baby girl at the beginning of April - Jessica. Beth is a natural mom and Jessica was such an alert, but calm baby.

She has such a thick head of red hair that she can wear a real bow (no "no slippy hair clippy" or velcro for her).
Jessica with Uncle Eric - he chose fashion over friendship first avoiding holding Jessica who was having a bit of a spit up issue. But we guilted him into holding her with a burb cloth.

Sweet girl. Posing already...

Girl Time with Grandma Ann & Miss Donna

2009-05-29T19:54:00.000-07:00

Grandma Ann & her dear friend (and my second mom growing up) Donna Larson came to visit and help us with some decorating in our house. Here Lindsay is hamming it up with the two of them after lunch out.

Although blurry, I had to include this picture of Lindsay with my mom's cell phone. She was obsessed with it and two days later (while under Grandma Ann's watch) she threw it in the toilet. We discovered it a few hours later...

Present Fun with Grandma Pat

2009-05-29T12:30:00.000-07:00

Lindsay loves to "help" people open presents. Here she is with Grandma Pat doing a number on her Mothers' Day gift.

Pat was so nice to stay with Lindsay the night before so Scott and I could go out.

Mothers' Day Zoo Trip

2009-05-29T12:22:00.000-07:00

Scott planned a fun Mothers' Day complete with church, brunch and a trip to the Lincoln Park Zoo. It was great to spend it with Grandma Pat. Here's a family shot on the zoo bridge with the Chicago skyline in the background. You can see it was a beautiful day!

Lindsay and Scott checking out some of the big cats.

Happy with Grandma Pat!

A Visit from the Ball Gals

2009-05-29T12:09:00.000-07:00

My good friend from working at DMI, Serena Ball, brought her two darling daughters over for a playdate in mid-May. The adults and little ones had a great time together. We lunched, played and wagoned. Not to mention playing "wedding". Notice the veil Sophia is wearing in the photo. Alethea (usually called Thea) is just about 3 months older than Lindsay.

Grandma Ann & Girlfriends

2009-05-29T12:01:00.000-07:00

Grandma Ann had a girls trip to Chicago and Geneva, IL in late April. We had fun when they stopped by to check out our new digs.

Happy Belated Birthday Lauren

2009-05-29T11:48:00.000-07:00

Well, Lindsay's good friend Lauren Mouse turned 2 in early May and her mom/my friend Liz had a fun Friday brunch playdate party. I didn't manage to get a picture of the birthday girl but here are my friends (L-R) Amanda and Colleen with their daughters Charlie and Anna. Oh, and Lindsay.

"Hugging". Anna gave Lindsay a sweet hug and Lindsay - who has since improved her hugging skills greatly - kind of acted like she didn't know what Anna was doing.

Happy Belated Birthday Aunt Jess

2009-05-29T11:17:00.000-07:00

Lindsay's beloved Aunt Jess' birthday is in mid-April and we celebrated it close to that time but I am just posting the pictures. Here we are headed to a girls lunch to toast her...

...Lindsay definately gets some of her great fashion sense from Jessica. Check out their pretty, coordinated spring dresses!

A couple of cool babes.

Easter Day

2009-04-18T13:07:00.001-07:00

Lindsay had a fun Easter. She looked pretty in pink in this soft, ruffled number from Grandma & Grandpa Lindsay!

The full effect...
We had a fun brunch with our dear friends (Aunt) Kari & (Uncle) Bruce. Lindsay loved the sweet lamb they brought her for the occasion.

Lindsay also wore her special jade bracelet from Aunt Jessica. Doesn't she look sophisticated (ignore the face)?

We went to an afternoon Easter Egg Hunt at our good friends the Bischoff's house in the afternoon. It is a sign of Chicago that all of the kids were wearing winter coats. Here's Amanda (Bischoff) with her daughter/Lindsay's friend Charlie.

Easter Fashionista

2009-04-18T12:54:00.000-07:00

This was Lindsay's reaction when she saw...

...her Easter treats!

This is what she donned for an Easter "party" we took her to at Borders. That's a story for another day!

Playing peak-a-boo in a dress that was Megan's.

Good Friday attire.

A Child Who Doesn't Like the Easter Bunny?!?

2009-04-09T17:54:00.000-07:00

So, we heard you could take your child for his/her picture with the Easter Bunny at CostCo (great way to kill two birds with one stone!). Lindsay didn't think it was such a great idea though...

She mellowed out when Dad hopped in the photo with her.
Mom too!

Easter Is Just Around the Corner

2009-03-31T17:42:00.000-07:00

Lindsay has been practicing wearing her ears. Here, she's chasing Sydney - one of her favorite hobbies.

And, she's learned how to put the ears on herself!

Hairclip: Part Deux

2009-03-31T17:34:00.000-07:00

Well, I managed to get a clip in Lindsay's hair again today. She is also modeling a sweater that was mine when I was a little girl.

I'll admit the hair flair is a bit silly in the wide shot (because you can see just how little hair it is holding) but this close-up is pretty darn cute.

Lindsay loved the Hello Kitty easter eggs Grandma & Grandpa sent her in the mail!

Let it Snow?

2009-03-30T12:37:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we had a good amount of snow in Chicago. Despite everyone complaining about "Spring snow", I loved it. The city looked beautiful and we were out all day surrounded by snow-dusted trees and heavy flurries. After church we had brunch with our good friends the Biscoffs. Here, Vann and Charlie Bischoff pose among the snowflakes with Scott and Lindsay.

Yes...We Think it is Growing!

2009-03-30T12:29:00.000-07:00

Lindsay has quite the collection of bows that have been collecting dust in her closet but yesterday I managed to scrape enough hair together for this sparkly "L" clip (from Aunt Kari, of course) to stay put.

Happy 85th Birthday Grandma Pete

2009-03-30T12:04:00.000-07:00

Lindsay helped Scott's Grandma Peterson celebrate her 85th birthday in Indiana last weekend.

Four generations of Petersons... Lindsay with Dad, Great-Grandma and Papa.

Oh Ya Got to Have Friends

2009-03-29T18:13:00.000-07:00

I guess some things change when you have a baby...you start making your friends pose for pictures with them! Here are Eric & Lindsay on our front porch.

Lindsay and Aunt Kristi playing "kitchen". Maybe they'll make cheese & crackers or chips & salsa.

Blue-eyed babes!

Uncle Eric showing Lindsay her purse (aka murse).

This "happy couple" shot reminds me of the ones we took with Eric & Jamie soon after Lindsay was born, that looked like hospital shots.

The gang's all back (although we missed Colleen, Beth & Deanna!)...

While Lindsay Was Sleeping...

2009-03-29T18:05:00.000-07:00

I had so much fun with my dear friends Kristi & Eric when they visited Chicago last weekend. We had a great night out with Kari, including dinner at Cafe 28 (complete with surprise Angelfood Bakery cupcakes from Scott) and then went to a few bars. Here we are at Carol's - if you haven't been there, it's hard to explain. Scott already went home to relieve the babysitter at this point - what a good guy!

Styled By Aunt Kari

2009-03-17T21:06:00.000-07:00

It was over 70 in Chicago today so we had to enjoy it! Lindsay, Aunt Kari and Megan had great fun walking, swinging and lunching.

Lindsay modeled the darling Splendid dress Aunt Kari got her for her birthday. She WALKED the catwalk so to speak...

Getting a Move On

2009-03-17T20:59:00.001-07:00

Lindsay started walking the week before her birthday and she literally pauses to "dance" every few steps. That is what she is doing in this shot (although it might look like she's falling) - it is hilarious.

Walking pride!

It is Official - Lindsay is 1!

2009-03-17T20:49:00.001-07:00

Lindsay loves to show off her newest skill...in response to our constant question, "How old are you?"

I can open two presents at once!

Lindsay really loved this fun tunnel we got her to play with in the basement. It is sure to bring hours of entertianment!

I decorated this Hello Kitty cake for our little cat lover.

Ready to rip into her cupcake...

Getting into spirit as the kitty queen.

Cake Time

2009-03-02T12:32:00.000-08:00

Lindsay awaiting her cake on her throne.

Hmmmm...this cupcake looks pretty good!

I am going to attempt to fit the whole thing in my mouth in one bite.

Ignoring Mom & Dad while I continue to continue to focus on my cupcake.

There will be trouble if you take this away from me!

Sugar coma...

First, First Birthday!

2009-03-02T11:50:00.000-08:00

When we arrived in Florida, Grandma & Grandpa had the stage set for Lindsay's Florida birthday celebration. Check out the festive spread!

How many minutes until I can get my hands on that cake and those presents?
With Grandma & Grandpa modeling her feather birthday tiara (you're only One once, right?).

A close up of Lindsay's homemade Ballerina Bear cake. Grandma Ann is a cake genuis!

We have a family tradition of rainbow cakes for our birthdays and Lindsay's first cake was no exception...

First Big Girl Bath

2009-02-28T20:05:00.000-08:00

Scott was happy to lose the baby tub and have Lindsay graduate to the full adult tub. You can see Lindsay was happy too!

Afterall, we wouldn't want to put boundaries on her creative bath play...

You can see Lindsay's hair is slightly growing (humor us, OK?).

Cradle Fun

2009-02-28T20:01:00.000-08:00

Grandma Pat put Lindsay in her cradle with all of her stuffed animals and she loved it!

Happy Valentine's Day!

2009-02-15T16:56:00.000-08:00

Here's Lindsay posing with all of her nice Valentine's day gifts from Grandma & Grandpa Lindsay, Aunt Lili & Uncle Matt & Family and Fabiola & Family (oh- and Mommy & Daddy)... Spoiled girl!

To all of my admiring public...read my shirt!

Happy girl...

Modeling her tres chic PJs from Grandma & Grandpa and playing peak-a-boo around the corner with Daddy.

Giving her baby a lovey for V-Day. Lindsay had so much fun playing with Grandma Pat while Mommy & Daddy went out for Valentine's dinner. We'll have to post some pictures of her playing with the cute love bunnies she brought Lindsay soon!

Nature Museum Fieldtrip

2009-02-05T18:28:00.000-08:00

Lindsay and I went to the Peggy Notebart Nature Museum with a few friends today. I wasn't successful in getting a "group shot" because my friend's daughter is a bit too young to pose sitting up. Lindsay was tooling around in a play boat in the museum's activity center in these shots.

Isn't this pose/expression hilarious? It makes me think of one of those forced senior pictures where they have you pose like you're popping out from behind a pillar (as if you'd ever be in that situation). But this was genuine which makes it more funny!

Watch Out Liberace!

2009-02-05T18:22:00.000-08:00

I'm so excited that Lindsay is OBSESSED with the piano. She always races into the dining room to bang on the keys even though she has to stand on her tippy toes to do it!

Waffle Party!

2009-02-05T18:20:00.000-08:00

Lindsay and I had waffles together for breakfast this morning. This is a good shot of her six teeth!

Strolling her "Baba"

2009-02-05T18:09:00.000-08:00

Lindsay loves her baby doll (she pronounces it baba) and giving her a ride in her stroller. She is putting this great Christmas gift from Uncle Matt & his family to good use.

Watch out, Connor & Brendan, I will chase you down next time I see you!

DONE!

Football...No, Commercials...No, Football!

2009-02-02T16:15:00.000-08:00

We had fun watching the big game with our friends Kari, Bruce, Jennifer & Thad. No one was excited about the game but the commercials weren't hot and the game proved to be exciting afterall. Lindsay had fun clowing around for everyone.

Aunt Kari brought Lindsay these ADORABLE Juicy legwarmers from her recent work trip to Monteray.

The total look...

Jennifer is always a big hit with Lindsay. Her laugh/smile is in reaction to Lindsay's squeal about reading with Jen.

First 2009 Triple Date

2009-02-02T16:05:00.000-08:00

Lindsay and Tommy had a lot of fun playing together when we got together with our friends Julie & Matt (aka Tommy's Mom & Dad) on Saturday night.

Tommy is a champion walker!

Go Tommy Go! Lindsay was mezmerized. Major progress from our early triple dates where the kiddos barely made it out of their car seats.

Tommy's hair is also growing gangbusters! This is a perfect illustration of Lindsay's lack of hair.

Three Walkers and a Lindsay

2009-01-30T14:42:00.000-08:00

Lindsay had a fun playdate with her friend Walker today. They especially loved tooling around with the two "walker" push toys in the background. Walker's mom Jorie and I are looking forward to getting them together again soon.

Saturday Play

2009-01-24T14:23:00.000-08:00

This captures Lindsay's routine of emptying her toys off the shelf in her playroom.

I've mentioned Lindsay is an equal opportunity "lovey" giver and doesn't understand the difference between loving: her parents or furniture, a stuffed animal or the floor, a doll or an item of food. Here I caught her giving a lovey to a pillow.

Rocking the chair and rockin' out. Lindsay was "dancing" (shaking bum and swinging hips) when I snapped this shot.

Lindsay loves playing with this Christmas gift from the Lawell family!

Visit with Grandma Ann

2009-01-24T14:10:00.000-08:00

Grandma Ann had to make an unexpected trip to her hometown in Southern Illinois so she was able to spend the week with us in Chicago. Lindsay had so much fun with her. Here are some shots of them playing together...

Lindsay loves giving her baby and Grandma Ann "loveys" (leans her head in for a cuddle).

Ladies...All the Ladies...Louder Now, Help Me Out!

2009-01-24T13:57:00.000-08:00

Lindsay had a fun playdate with her girlfriends. At this age (10 months - 20 months) response rate isn't the best. The girls were all playing kitchen. Lindsay and Lauren are facing the camera in this shot...

...and while Lindsay is fleeing the scene, we managed to get everyone facing the camera in this shot. Anna and Charlie are in the front (L-R).

Cute...

...not so cute. This is one of Lindsay's favorite new faces. It resembles an overly excited beaver.

Baby It's Cold Outside!

2009-01-23T16:33:00.000-08:00

In early January it just didn't stop snowing in Chicago. Here are some shots of Lindsay and us enjoying the winter wonderland from our front porch!

More Family Fun

2009-01-23T15:41:00.000-08:00

We loved having everyone from the Peterson side of the family over to hang out, dine and play games over the holidays. Uncle Chris and Aunt Michelle pose with Lindsay by the tree.

Grandma Pat with all seven of her grandkids!

Matthew, Andrew and Joey played with Lindsay lots and Scott and I enjoyed playing Catchphrase and Uno with them.

Aunt Jill, Keegan and Lindsay

Uncle Dave and Lindsay

Matthew and Lindsay playing in the basement

A final photo op - the Cali Petersons with Lindsay

Christmas in Crown Point, Indiana

2009-01-23T15:12:00.000-08:00

Lindsay was so excited to meet her cousins and many of her aunts and uncles for the first time over Christmas. Here she is in front of Grandma Pat's decked out Christmas tree with the whole gang: (L-R back row) Joey, Matthew and Andrew Lawell and (L-R front row) Caidyn, Grady & Keegan Peterson.

Matthew is Lindsay's baby whisperer cousin and couldn't wait to get his hands on her when she walked through the door!

Opening presents with Grandma Pat...

...and Aunt Michelle!

Peterson gals...Caidyn, Aunt Jill and Lindsay.

Uncle Dave, Grady and Lindsay show off their matching baby blues!

Chicago Christmas Morning

2008-12-31T13:01:00.000-08:00

Santa left lots of gifts for Lindsay!

Lindsay with the man behind the mask. She loved the musical insturments from Uncle Bobby!

She was also immediately "busy" with her new kitchen from Mommy & Daddy.

Lindsay really got into opening gifts with everyone, especially Grandma Pat!

What's next?

Santa Claus is Coming To Town

2008-12-31T12:36:00.000-08:00

Uncle Bobby sacrificed a lot (includnig wearing a moldly wig) to give Lindsay a true first Christmas celebration. She was very interested in Santa...

She finally tuckered out...

...but Grandma Pat got her to cheer up quickly!

There's No Place Like Home for the Holidays

2008-12-29T15:45:00.000-08:00

We returned to Chicago on Christmas Eve and spent the evening and Christmas Day in our new place. Scott went a little "Clark Griswald" putting up lights complete with a remote system for turning them on from inside.

Our neighbors thought we were pretty gung ho when they saw Scott adjusting the icicles on multiple nights. We're just so excited to be able to do lights on the outside of our building!!!

Bag 'O Tricks - Start at the Bottom

2008-12-29T13:53:00.000-08:00

Ugh, I'm tired!

See you later.

I think I will pretend it is a rollercoaster!

Playing in my dolly cradle is fun...

Fake Christmas

2008-12-29T13:41:00.000-08:00

Between naps, meals, gifts, etc. Lindsay never made it out of her PJs on our St. Louis Christmas, so we staged these shots the next morning.

Note to self: don't save the pictures with mom & dad for the end or this will happen...

Happy with Grandma & Grandpa

Hours of Entertainment!

2008-12-29T13:34:00.000-08:00

Lindsay LOVED playing with this activity cube from Aunt Lynne Anne, Uncle Jackson and Beecher.
We missed them in the U.S. but are sure they had fun celebrating their first family Christmas in Hong Kong.

Toronto Lindsays

2008-12-29T13:26:00.000-08:00

Matt, Lili, Connor and Brendan DROVE from Toronto to St. Louis for our Christmas celebration. It was so much fun to be together.

Cousins with the awesome toy they got for Lindsay...

Sitting pretty with her Aunt Lili and birthday twin Uncle Matt.

Brendan modeling the cool Bears scarf his mom knit for him.

Connor has unwrapping gifts mastered!

Ode To Uncle Oscar

2008-12-29T13:18:00.000-08:00

Many of you have met the famed Oscar - but if not - you have at least heard of him.

Here he is "opening" his stocking...

...it is a perfect match!

A Special Christmas Gift

2008-12-29T12:59:00.000-08:00

Lindsay was pleased to get the babydoll cradle that Grandma Ann's father, Great Grandpa Stevenson (to Lindsay) handmade for Ann when she was a child. Megan also spent many hours playing with the cradle.

You can see she also loved the babydoll from Grandma & Grandpa Lindsay (although all she wanted to do was bite it).

The Christmas Tree is so Tempting!

2008-12-28T06:11:00.000-08:00

Lindsay thought Grandma & Grandpa's Christmas tree was amazing!

Grandpa gave Lindsay some early gift unwrapping practice...

VERY excited!

Visit with Betsy & Mary

2008-12-28T05:59:00.000-08:00

Lindsay, Megan and Grandma Ann were so excited to have a play date with Betsy and adorable Mary! Here they are ready to brave the cold (although it was much less cold in St. Louis than Chicago).

Where is the snow for a snow angel?

Mary giving Lindsay a little lovey...Lindsay is not so sure about that lovey.

Two gals in skirts, tights and boots (Lindsay - you missed that last part of the trend!).

Old Friend, New Times

2008-12-27T22:17:00.000-08:00

Megan was so glad to see her dear (and one of her oldest) friends, Erin, who was visiting from London.

It was fun to introduce Lindsay to Erin...

You can see they were instant friends!

Christmas in St. Louis

2008-12-27T22:05:00.000-08:00

Lindsay posing with Grandma & Grandpa in front of their Christmas tree.

With Mommy...

Enjoying Christmas stories with Grandma Ann

Welcome to the World, Drew Cassat (and other baby news)

2008-12-26T19:30:00.000-08:00

Megan had fun seeing her college friends (L-R) Deanna, Kristi & Beth in St. Louis over Christmas. Deanna is holding Kristi's 3-week old son, Drew and the two people who haven't recently had babies in this picture are pregnant. Exciting times!

This photo includes another important member of our college posse, (Uncle) Eric.

Beautiful Beth!

Perfect baby Drew. He was too sweet for words.

Happy mom, dear friend.

At Home Water Park

2008-12-19T16:36:00.000-08:00

Lindsay continutes to love her bath time. These shots loaded in reverse order so start at the bottom for the full bath experience!

Cute or scary? I'm not sure but since she's my daughter I'll say cute...

Toys, toys and more toys!

Walking...Well, Sort Of

2008-12-16T21:43:00.001-08:00

Lindsay has a new skill: walking...with her walker of course!

You'll notice she cruises around with a good deal of confidence...

...and is clearly very pleased with her accomplishment!

Cruising off into the sunset, errrrr TV stand.

Holiday Elves

2008-12-15T21:56:00.001-08:00

Check out the last photo in this post to see what Lindsay is watching...

Lindsay and Tommy had a very fun Christmas date. They were so busy goofing off together that it was hard to get a good shot (not to mention how orally fixated both of them are now).

Friends dressed in their holiday best!

On the move...

I'm over here, climbing the stairs. Come on, Lindsay, I'll show you how to get into trouble...

To Capelet or To Not Capelet - That is the Question

2008-12-15T21:48:00.001-08:00

We got a new camera so we're back in business! Lindsay was dressed in her (faux) fur finery this weekend and we enjoyed taking pictures in front of our tree (the first one we've had in three years!).

SO Big!

2008-12-06T22:25:00.000-08:00

Lindsay is obviously VERY proud to finally be able to play the "so big" game. She's started to do it spontaneously any time she isn't getting the level of attention she deems appropriate.

Here she is squirming and being slightly shy in displaying the "half so big"...

Big Smiles with Grandpa

2008-12-01T22:16:00.000-08:00

Lindsay was sad to leave Grandma & Grandpa's house after a great Thanksgiving visit!

Goofing Off

2008-12-01T22:11:00.000-08:00

Lindsay loved hanging out with the big kids. Her cousins Connor & Brendan loved playing with her and helping take care of her.