the life of baby jude

I'm most excited! This is my first Halloween as a big boy and I can't wait to celebrate. After Mommy's done working today we're going to go to the mall with Evie and her mommy with our costumes on! Then, I think M&D are going to take me around in our neighborhood! I can't wait! I will be sure to add pictures of my exciting night tomorrow. I'm dressing up as a dragon. Mommy and Aunt Lynda picked it out and I very much like it.

In the meantime, let's all feast on the cuteness that was Baby Jude Halloween '05. I was a cow. Can you stand it? Moo!

UPDATE: Halloween was GREAT! I met Evie at the mall and we had a really fun time walking around. She was dressed as a ladybug and looked more cute than words can say. I even met a celebrity-- Elmo! OK, so it was a little girl dressed as Elmo, but I have to tell you, it was VERY exciting! I almost asked for an autograph, but I decided to hold back. Then I came home and ate pizza and candy and trick or treated in my neighborhood with M&D and Grandma. Everyone was very nice and I got many compliments on my costume (not to mention some very good candy for M&D to eat.) My baby neighbor Conroy, who is a year younger than I am, was also a dragon! There were tons of kids out in my neighborhood and we got lots of trick or treaters, which was neat. I like this Halloween stuff-- it's really fun!
Check out this video-- I can even knock!

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Grandma Ginny and Uncle Erik came down on Thursday and I had such a fun weekend with them! On Friday, I got to stay home from school and play with them. They took me to the park and made a liar out of Mommy. Heehee-- I suddenly LOVE the swings. On Friday night, M&D went to the movies and I got to stay home and eat delicious ice cream with them. And on Saturday night, M&D went to a Halloween party at Auntie Annette's and Uncle Mark's apartment in the city (such partiers, my parents are), so I got to stay home and bake (and eat) pumpkin cookies. Nothing like a grandmother and an uncle to totally spoil you. It was very fun and I love them very much!

As previously mentioned, M&D had a very fun weekend living it up. I heard that they really like the movie they saw and that the Halloween party was a blast. I have been to one of Auntie Annette and Uncle Mark's parties and they really do it up. M&D told me that there were all sorts of delicious treats and that they decorated their apartment to look really spooky. Auntie Chung and Uncle Mike were also there. Click HERE to see some pictures! M&D seemed a little "hurting" on Sunday, I gotta say. I guess when you're a big person, that's the sign of a really good party.

On Saturday, I got to see one of my best buddies, Matthew. My mommy met his mommy, Auntie Amanda, on the internet over two years ago when they were both pregnant with us. They live in Ohio, but have family in NJ, so whenever they visit, we make it a point to see them! It's especially cool because we're almost exactly the same age. I'm about two days older, so I try and act like the "mature one." OK, yeah, I'm just kidding. :) Every time we're together, we have such fun!!

They were visiting this time because Auntie Amanda's sister just had twin boys!! Cool right? Their names are Leo and Daniel and they're very little and cute. I didn't get to meet them yet, but hopefully I will soon. Babies are fun.

Matthew and I are no longer babies, though, so we can run around and play like big boys. And did we! First, we went to Paramus Park Mall because we heard talk of a Lego Land. Well, we couldn't find that. So we just walked around a little and did some shopping at Old Navy. Then we went to a playground near where Auntie Amanda grew up. It had been raining all day, so it was kind of wet and muddy, but I think that just added to the fun. We picked up acorns together, tried to climb up slides together, shared snacks and even tried to play with the same trash. What can I say, we're two peas in a pod. I love that kid.

They'll be back at Thanksgiving, and I gotta tell you-- I can't wait! Matthew and his whole family are just so nice and fun!

Everyone who knows me, knows I like to boogey to all sorts of tunes. And anyone that knows my parents, knows that they have me listening to everything. I've taken a liking to Jimi Hendrix lately. On Tuesday's ride home from school, we were listening to "Foxy Lady" and I was dancing it up. Mommy tried to videotape it, but I stopped dancing. She was singing to me to try and get me to do it, but honestly, that was just too funny. It was the end of the song, so it's just the same words over and over again. I couldn't stop laughing. Mommy would like to think I was laughing *with* her, but we all know the truth.

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Glutton for punishment or comedian in the making? You tell me. All I know is, these faces are show stoppers.


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On Sunday, M&D and Grandma Lisa took me to Peddler's Village in Lahaska, PA. It's right over the border of PA and NJ-- only an hour away! It was a really pretty drive-- I think (I slept for most of it.) The leaves are in full effect, though, so it was very pretty. And everyone always dogs NJ. What do they know?!

The town was really fun. It was all decorated for Halloween and autumn. They had all different scarecrows everywhere. I think there was a competition or something. My favorite was probably the Elmo one, because, well, I love that guy. Mommy seemed most amused by this one on the right: Vincent Van Crow. Chuckle, chuckle.
M&D and Grandma didn't really seem too amused by my toddler antics. To be quite frank, I was a bit crabby from the time I woke up in the car (see picture above.) Running around cheered me up a bit, though. There were a lot of doggies to pet and kids to wave at. I was having so much fun playing outside, I really didn't want to go in and eat lunch. And I REALLY didn't want to be at the Peddler's Pub for some reason. I voiced my opinion by screaming until Daddy was forced to take me outside. While Mommy & Grandma ate their lunch, Daddy did his best to keep up with me outside. Thankfully, he found a pretzel stand and that kept me busy for about... two minutes. We also saw a guy playing a guitar and singing, so I could get my baby groove on. That was fun.

After lunch we walked around and saw the sights a bit more, but I got the feeling that there was just too much trouble for me to possibly get into and it was getting a bit cold, so we headed home. Plus, my stroller didn't fit in any of the stores and I have a penchant for grabbing at fine china. So there you go. Man, being a toddler's parents must be hard work. *Evil cackle* I have a feeling that I'm really skirting by on my devilish good looks alone.

It was a fun weekend, though, that's for sure. Nothing like a little fresh air!

I've kicked the habit, dear readers. That's right me and the bottle are no more. I've been less and less interested in drinking it at night. Honestly, I just want to be put to bed. So last Friday, Mommy just gave me my sippy after dinner and then I brushed my teeth and went off to bed. Fine by me. I'm tired of her crappy lullabies anyway. Plus, I'm a big boy now, so no more bottles for me. I suspect that Mommy thought it was going to be a big song and dance, but I'm over 16 months old now-- no "baba" necessary. So, fare thee well, sweet bottle, it was fun while it lasted. See you when my baby sister (fingers crossed) is born!

For posterity, here's a picture of me back in April-- when I was a bottle lovin' fool.

One year ago today I met my best gal pals, Evie and Lucy. Back when Mommy used to stay at home all day with me, we used to go to something called "Reel Moms." Our local movie theatre used to have a movie every Tuesday morning and that mommies could bring their babies to. Mommy decided to go because she was trying to make friends and get out of the house. Well, on our first day, we met Evie and Lucy and their mommies, Katie and Sarah. I remember it like it was yesterday. Lucy was only four weeks old and sound asleep in her carseat. We met them at the ticket counter. Mommy noticed her seat was the same as mine and that Sarah "looked like she was nice." We met Evie and Katie in the theatre. They were sitting across from us and Evie was the baby "with the crazy hair." Man, I miss that hair. Anyway, Katie and Sarah talked to each other, too, realizing that they were both Southern gals with European husbands. What are the chances?? Anyway, we watched Elizabethtown that day. Even though it, like most of the movies we saw there, was cheesy, it was a monumental day. We continued to go a few months and luckily, they did, too. I think it was the only real time Lucy took a proper nap, so Sarah was more than willing to attend, no matter what the movie. Mommy was so desperate for friends that she persued them with the gusto you usually save for someone you're trying to date. She was just eager to meet "mommy friends" and knew that ones like these don't come around every day. She was right! It's been wonderful watching Evie and Lucy grow and nice to see Mommy make friends that she really cares about. Plus our daddies get along pretty well, too. Getting the families together is always good times. We love you guys! Happy 1st Anniversary!
xoxoxo

As much as I like Hassan and Isaiah, my baby classmates, I'm really not into posing in this dorky wagon! I mean, come on!! At least I'm not crying, like poor Hassan. He was REALLY not pleased. It should be noted, though, that school picture day came at a very unfortunate time. They were taken on a Thursday, and all week I was in teething baby hell. I couldn't sleep, it hurt to eat... I was a general mess. So I suppose if I was feeling a *bit* better, I would've been more up to it. No promises, though. And you think they could've posed in front of some sort of background. I'm very suspect as to just how "professional" these photograhpers are!

My single pic came out a bit better. I wished they would've combed my hair a little. I know it's a bit long, but Mommy *did* pack my comb. I thought my teachers and I were on the same page when it came to my hair concept. I guess not. Although, I'm not smiling, I was actually trying to strike my best model pose. I'm channeling "Zoolander" a bit, don't you think?

Just for comparison purposes, here's my class picture from last spring. Not much better, really. Everyone thinks we look like a band of baby bank robbers. Heehee, that's what we were going for!

In addition to snuggle factor, I have decided that my blanky also makes a very stylish scarf. I like to sling it around my neck and saunter about the apartment, looking tres chic. Aren't I hip?
On Sunday, I went to Evie's house. Wouldn't you know, she caught the modeling bug, too. Doesn't she look cute in Mommy's vest? Work it!

I'm really enjoying autumn this year! Last year, I couldn't really get that into it, being so little and all. But this year it's a toddler free-for-all! There are leaves and acorns (and some trash) to pick up and show Mommy, pumpkins to pick, pies to eat... Bring it on!

On Saturday, Uncle G and Aunt Lynda took us Conklin Farm. We even brought Mick (AKA "dog dog") along! It's a farm where you can pick your own pumpkins. There's lots of fun "fall" things to do there-- like hay rides and stuff. They sell delicious pies, mums, cider, etc. M&D got two very cute pumpkins for themselves and a smaller one for me. Honestly, I think I should've had the biggest, bestest pumpkin of the lot but I guess the three pumpkins are suppose to be "us." Whatever. I just hope they carve something cool on my pumpkin. I'm not totally sure, but I don't think M&D want me handling knives quite yet. But I will happily be artistic director if they need some ideas.
It was such a beautiful autumn day and we really had so much fun. Mommy tried valiantly to pose me on the same decorative hay bale she did last year, but I was having none of it. We were in the picture line behind a family that took it upon themselves to take about a million pics, so during that time I got restless and took off. Mommy managed to get a picture of me with Daddy but I don't look too happy in it. What can I say, I wanted to explore. Gone are the days when someone could put a crocheted pumpkin hat on me with matching booties and I would just sit wherever I was propped. Besides pumpkins, M&D bought a gallon of apple cider. I didn't get to try this last year. I gotta say-- it's DELICIOUS. I'm pretty sure it's my new favorite drink. Milk, schmilk. Note: it's not the alcoholic kind, I swear. :-) But I bet that's good, too.

Afterwards, we went to the Pilgrim Diner for a bite to eat. I was more interested in eating the crayons the nice waitress gave me than my cheeseburger, though. I entertained everyone with my barrage of funny baby faces. You should see the laughs I get. I've never made these faces in the mirror, but I'm guessing they're really funny because everyone was in stitches. As Aunt Lynda said-- "I'm the hardest working baby in show business!"

Thanks for the great day, Aunt Lynda and Uncle G. And for the pumpkins, the mum and dinner!! We had a wonderful time!

I went back to my place of birth this past weekend! It was the first time since we moved! Not only that, but I got to see ALL of Daddy's family. I saw my Grandpa Rick and Uncle Brandon, great-grandma Ford,Grandma Ginny, Uncle Craig, Uncle Erik, Aunt Jenny, Uncle Paul, my cousins Izzy and Ava and tons of other people from both sides of Daddy's family! Oh my gosh, it was SO FUN! I miss everyone SO MUCH and I know M&D do too. The reason we were all in Buffalo was because Daddy's cousin Shawn got married to Erin. We love Shawn and Erin VERY much. They used to live in Buffalo, but they moved to Vermont two years ago. It's actually pretty neat, because VT isn't really that far from Jersey. Anyway, they had a beautiful wedding right outside of the city at a beautiful country club! While M&D were at the wedding, I got to stay home with Grandpa Rick, Uncle Brandon and Aunt Lynda (my other Aunt Lynda-- Daddy's aunt.) Izzy and Ava were there, too, and we had a blast! M&D got to go to the wedding, but I got to party, too!
We also did tons of other fun "Buffalo" things that mostly involved eating. The picture above depicts me doing the most Buffalo thing one can do-- eat a chicken wing. M&D kept going on and on about getting wings while we were there. So the whole family went to Duff's on Monday night. It's a pretty famous wing joint in Buffalo. Now I know what all the fuss is about. They were GOOD! Plus, they had video games for all us kids to play!
Here's some pictures of me and Izzy, Ava and Aunt Jenny, having fun!

Mommy also took me to Anderson's for some ice cream. Mommy told me it was the best frozen custard you could ever have and boy was she right! She even bought some for Daddy (he was home with a raging eye infection, poor guy), but she wound up eating that, too. Shocking! We bought some more Buffalo favorites that you can only get in Western NY as well. Squirt, Bison Dip(the best dip for chips... EVER!) and 50 chicken wings for Uncle Jack. But I can tell Mommy wants to go steal some from him. She sure does love wings!

Besides all the eating, I really want to emphasize what a wonderful time I had with my family. I love them all so much and M&D and I were all so sad to go. After we said goodbye to Aunt Jenny, Uncle Paul and Izzy and Ava, Mommy cried the whole way back to Great-Grandma's house (she put us up!) I love you guys so much and I look forward to a time when M&D are loaded and we can visit them whenever we want.


Here's a picture of everyone having fun at the wedding! Don't Shawn and Erin look great! And look how nice Daddy and Aunt Jenny look! Mommy would post a picture of herself, but she was wearing the same dress she wore the day before and honestly, didn't look that much different.

If you would like to see all the pics from Shawn & Erin's wedding, go here. And if you like to see the rest of the picture of me and my family from the trip, go here.

Special thanks to Great-Grandma Ford for letting us stay at her apartment and sleep in her bed. She's quite hospitable and we REALLY appreciate it!

Last week, M&D were in a real pickle. They had a wedding to go to on Saturday and none of my local friend's Mommy's could watch me. Grandpa to the rescue! Not that he wasn't a consideration, but it seemed awful incovenient for him all the way down here for just a few hours. But Grandpa loves spending time with me and even though he had plans for that day, he made the trip down. I even wore my Yankee shirt for him because we like the same baseball team (don't tell Daddy, the Sox fan, I said that!)Too bad the Yanks got knocked out of the playoffs that very night. I hope my shirt didn't jinx them. Anyway, we had lots of fun. We went for walks, played with toys, ate snacks. Grandpa even humored me and played, "Hand the plant to whomever is willing to to take it"-- my favorite game. Ahh, that Grandpa and his infinite patience. The best part of the day was when I got snuggle in Grandpappy's arms and take a nap. We snoozed on the couch together for about an hour. Too bad Mommy didn't get a picture because it was quite cute. Daddy walked in before Mommy and I immediately woke up. Too bad Mommy was down showing Aunt Lynda pics from the wedding. A true Kodak moment was most certainly missed. Ahhh, well, I know there will be other chances!

Here's a picture of me making a funny face at Grandpa. He's just so fun and goofy, I find it all a bit shocking at first! I love you Grandpappy Robo! Thanks for coming down and spending the afternoon with me!

Also, here's a picture of Mommy, Auntie Marilyn and Auntie Annette at the wedding. Don't they look pretty? If you would like to see the rest of the pics, go here. It was such a beautiful day!

Look what Mommy got! A tattoo in my honor! It's a "J" with leaves and flowers. It's still healing, so it doesn't look perfect yet, but what do you think? She loves me. Oh, and I wanted to add the "daddy" tattoo that Daddy got back in March. I hadn't realized the beauty of the blog back then, so I didn't get to post about it. So, here is Daddy's, too. My parents like to think they're really cool. Honestly, as touched as I am, I just think they're blowing my college bucks on body art.

Edit: Mommy says the previous line is NOT true. So don't get worried, everyone. : )

I haven't been sleeping well lately. Last week was just miserable, actually. I seem to have recovered okay and am sleeping a bit better. Occassionally, though, I wake up at about 4am (isn't is amazing how we babies can wake up at the same time every night!) and want no part of my crib anymore. Although I can tell M&D are none to pleased, they usually wind up bringing me to bed with them. It's all part of my master plan. I cry and cry until I'm picked up. I find that if you strike them at their weakest (i.e. exhausted in the middle of the night) you can pretty much get whatever you want without a fight. I'm a restless sleeper, though, known for tossing and turning and sleeping in all sorts of crazy positions. This is fine in my crib, but there is significantly less room in M&D's bed. That's okay, I just flip and flop until Mommy can't take it anymore. After 30 mintues of teetering on the edge of the bed, her neck bent in some terribly uncomfortable position, she usually just gets up... and the bed is mine!!! Mwahahahahah! I'm an evil genius! Sorry, Mommy, but this mattress is COMFY.. and I know you spent way more on your bed than mine!

I just have one more thing to say, though, speaking of bedtime. Does anyone know any good lullabies? Clearly, my mother doesn't. I'm so tired of snuggling in Mommy's arms while she sings nothing but the chorus of Spandau Ballet's "True."

No surprises here-- but Mommy and I scammed some free meals on Saturday. I swear, that woman is going to get us quite the reputation! We went out and about early, heading off to Old Navy to do some shopping. Mommy was feeling quite rich from getting so much birthday cash, so she was eager to blow it on clothes. I was a pretty good boy in the store. I don't really mind shopping with Mommy at all. I'm sure this will change, but for now, as long as there's snacks, I'm good. And plus I got a cute shirt and pair of jeans out of it. Added bonus!!!

So after Mommy blew loads of $$$ we went off to Evie's house for an afternoon of fun. Lucy and her M&D were over because they were having an open house of sorts. Their town was doing a historic home tour, and since they're trying to sell their house, they thought it might be a good opportunity. So they had a few free hours. Since Daddy was working and Mommy and I didn't have anything else to do (shocking, I know)we decided to stop by. We were so lucky-- we arrived just in time for Mommy to eat a delcious lunch! I actually slept in Evie's crib for a good long while. It was one of my greatest afternoon naps in a long time and I woke up pretty refreshed. Her crib is just too comfy for words! When I got up, I played with my pals and we had so much fun! Evie and Lucy just get cuter and funnier by the day. I haven't been feeling well all week, but I gotta tell ya-- these two were all the medicine I needed! AND, I got a nice dinner care of Katie. I swear, we always make out while were there! I do love hanging out there and if that makes us shameless mooches-- so be it. :-)

Here are some cute pictures of Evie and Lucy. While they look adorable, I honestly think they pose too much. I have to teach them the baby Jude "art of aloofness." Sometimes you gotta keep M&D on their toes, keep them guessing. It's what any self respecting toddler would do.