Spring Time! Finally!

I feel like we have had an especially cold and wet spring and I am so happy to finally drop my winter jacket, hat and mittens. It has been so dreary and finally the sun has decided to shine this week. I am counting down the days until warm summer weather.

Truman started soccer again last week and he LOVES it! I love that he is on team "Berlin" as everyone knows Germany is my favourite soccer team. Poor Oliver just wants to get in on the action and play too. Although, we can distract him for a little bit if we bring him some snacks, preferably a carbohydrate.

Oliver's words are exploding lately and he is saying more and more. He is so proud when he points to an object to tell us what it is. He can count to 10 (obviously lots of mimicking from Truman?). I can't believe he is 22 months today - how can he almost be 2 years old? Where has the time gone?

And who is that in the above picture? Its North Toronto's only Jewish Easter Bunny! Lucky for us, it also happens to be my husband! This is Jerry's third appearance as the Easter Bunny in our neighbourhood's annual Easter Egg Hunt. Love it! The kids had a grand time despite the freezing cold weather and rain. What a kid wouldn't do for a little chocolate....

We spent Easter at my parents home and had our own egg hunt. Family gatherings are definitely getting a lot more hectic with so many kids on the move. But, we had so much fun! Lucky for Jerry and I, both boys fell fast asleep on the drive home.

Shame

Shame on me! Yes, I am a bad blogger...it has been ages, too long since my last post. The Topolski Family has been very busy over the past few months. Jerry had to travel to India for work so I took the opportunity and decided to join him, how could I not? We were very thankful that our parents helped to take care of the kids. Our trip had ignited our travel bug again and I am already thinking about another vacation. Maybe this time with the boys??

We recently celebrated Elliott's first birthday! How is it that he is already a year old? I still remember the day he was born, it was a very unseasonably warm March day and the sun was shining so bright. Tina, again as usual outdid herself! The theme to Elliott's party was bow ties and Tina made bow ties for each of the boys, not to mention a bow tie cake. Avery and Truman spent about three hours rough housing with Pat's cousin Reilly. I thought for sure Truman would be tuckered out and ready for a nap....but no!

Oliver wants to do EVERYTHING his big brother does. If Truman can do something (like climb, colour, sit in a big chair, dress himself) than Oliver wants to try too. Oliver can already put on his own boots, hats and mitts and attempts to zip up his jacket. Oliver is very interested in babies and strollers. Recently we were at a friends house, where he played with a baby stroller non-stop. As we were getting ready to go home, Oliver rolled the stroller up to the front door. Lucky for Oliver, Pam ad Ashu lent us the baby and stroller. It still remains one of his favourite toys to play with. Oliver also loves to sing songs, every morning he can be heard from his room singing "Baa Baa Black Sheep" or some other nursery rhyme.

We recently found out that Truman got into French Immersion. so next year he will be starting SK in a new school. He is very happy about it and is telling everyone that he will be learning to speak french. It is still hard to believe that Truman will soon be finishing up JK. He continues to be very enthusiastic about school which I am very happy about.
The Topolski Family are now anxiously waiting for some warm spring weather to arrive. Some on spring!!

The (Not So) Magical Disney Trip

I don't want to sound so melodramatic here....but honestly the Topolskis don't have any luck when it comes to going to Disney World. Last year when we arrived, Florida was setting records for weather....the coldest weather Orlando has probably ever seen (OK, this is probably an exaggeration, but seriously it was so cold we never took off our winter coats, hats and mitts). So, we figured when we booked our trip this year, the weather had to be in check. The weather was lovely, perfect temperature to be at a theme park. It was just everything else that didn't go our way. I do have to say however, we will be booking again next year. Three times a charm, right?

There were a couple of glitches we had along the way and I don't want to go into all the details, but my poor husband was admitted to hospital and then under went surgery. How could this not put a damper on our vacation? Luckily, Jerry is fine and healing well and thank goodness we were travelling with another family who helped us out so much. We managed to have four fabulous days at Disney before Jerry was hospitalized and a few days after as we stayed in Florida a bit longer so Jerry could recover.

Truman's favourite park again this year was Magic Kingdom, but he had a new favourite ride "Buzz Lightyear". In fact, I started to enjoy the ride a lot too...how could I not enjoy trying to improve my score and defeat the evil Zurg. I think we went on this ride at least 20 times or more, Truman could not get enough. Truman loved the Mickey roller coaster ride so, I thought I would take him on Thunder Mountain. Oops! It was a little too fast for him. If you ask him what rides he liked best, he will say all of them, except Thunder Mountain!

Most days, we would go to a theme park in the morning and then either stay in the room for the afternoon while Oliver napped, or I would take Truman to Epcot since it was walking distance from our hotel. It was nice having the one on one time with Truman and he seemed to really enjoy it too. The only theme park we didn't quite understand was Hollywood Studios...we spent about a half hour there one morning and left for Epcot. I think it may be more interesting to older children???

Oliver became such a toddler on this trip. His favourite word was "walk" as he rarely wanted to stay in the stroller or in my arms. He wanted to walk with the other big boys and be in on the action. He loved the rides (especially Dumbo and the Magic Carpet). He also became infatuated with Rebecca. He wanted to hold her hand when they walked or be carried by her. Oliver was amazing on both flights (although he refused to sleep). He is becoming very proficient in letting us know what he wants. Let me tell you, my boy has a stubborn streak no matter how sweet he can be!

We are happy to be home and we are looking forward to a (more) magical Disney trip next year! Who's in?

Happy Merry

Happy New Year! It is hard to believe that it is already 2011! Where did 2010 go? We started last year with a trip to Disney World, which I have to say was probably one of the best vacations I had been on, despite the freezing temperatures. I was a huge skeptic, but honestly, it was amazing just watching the joy on Truman's face for an entire week! Our life became a little more hectic upon our return as Jerry started a long trial that lasted until May. We rewarded ourselves with another trip, this time to Atlantis. This trip too was unbelievable and we had a fabulous time relaxing in the sun.

This past summer we anxiously awaited the arrival of our Belgian relatives and spent a wonderful few days at Geneva Park with more family and friends that travelled from Vancouver, Calgary and Windsor. Truman and Joachim were inseparable and we cannot wait to reunite them soon. We are hoping sometime this summer.

Truman started JK in September and loves being in school. He especially loves doing his homework (yeah!). Oliver started crawling, then walking and now talking. Although he is extremely sweet, he does have a hot temper that shows itself now and again! Hard to believe I know, but let me tell you that he threw our iPad recently when he didn't get his way!

The biggest change for me, was making the decision to stay home with the boys and not return to work. I have to say that it was the best decision I have ever made and I am so thankful for spending everyday with them. Although, the last few months have been difficult and challenging at times, our family life has become easier.

This year, we also welcomed a new member to our family, little baby Elliott! I have been very blessed to have been able to spend this last year with my sister while she has been on maternity leave. I can't tell you the amount of hours we have been able to spend together weekly, and I will cherish the times with my adorable nephew.

We spent Christmas Eve at my parents home with the O'Brien clan as per usual. It just wouldn't be Christmas without waking up together and heading downstairs to open up the gifts Santa left for us. This year, Truman was particularly excited about Santa. It took him an awful long time to get to sleep and he kept coming downstairs to check things out (and to make sure that Avery too was sleeping). I thought it would have been more hectic having four boys in the house under one roof for two days, but it was quite manageable. Trips to the park seemed to help! We just have to get my father to work on the basement so that we have a place to throw them as they get older!

In November I lost someone very dear to me and I wanted to take the time to say good-bye and acknowledge her. Although, I was not related to Lilly, I always considered her (more than) my aunt. She is an amazing woman, someone I will always remember. If you met her, you know she is hard to forget! I have always held her close to my heart. I will and do love and miss her greatly.

I wanted to wish everyone a very Happy New Year! I hope that 2011 brings you much joy and happiness!

Olie's New Do

So, it was time, time for Olie's first haircut. The dreaded moment in every mom's life. But, alas it was time to chop off some hair. Poor Oliver had horrible tangles at the back and it was time to clean him up! He happily ate the remainder of his bagel as he had his locks chopped. It didn't bother him one bit, maybe because he was eating??. In fact, I think he was as happy as could be sitting in the red firetruck!

How adorable does my little boy look? First cut at 17 months! I still can't get over how light his hair is getting. I wonder if he too will get the same curls as the T man. Truman too had his day in the salon, but I think they chopped a little too much off. I miss his thick lock of curls.

Here's the before shot! After two weeks of Topolski Family Lockdown (due to illness), Saturday ended up being a busy day for the Topolskis. After the hair appointments, we headed to Bayview Village so that the boys could tell Santa what they wanted for Christmas. Truman asked for a garbage truck for him and a little garbage truck for Oliver. I guess Truman had to figure out that there were more exciting gifts than fruit sooner or later. Truman was surprisingly a little shy and Oliver was as happy as could be. On our drive home I exclaimed to Truman that he was very lucky and had now seen Santa three times, once at the parade, once at school and then again today. He quickly told me that the Santa at school wasn't the real Santa and was Mr. Kennedy from the office. I died. I tried to convince him otherwise, yet he insisted it was Mr. Kennedy and said it as if I couldn't figure it out. Ahhh, it begins, I've become the dumb mother already!

After Santa, we headed to the Sullivans for dinner and to see their beautiful new home. The Thorntons also joined us and it was great seeing all the kids play together. Poor Oliver wanted to get in on the action....maybe in a few more months! Then, Jerry dropped me off for the O'Brien ugly Christmas sweater party. I had a great time and ate too much as always when it comes to Tina's cooking and baking. Tina, hope you had a fabulous birthday!

Oh, and here is a pic of Truman's "Movemeber", or rather T's face after eating an ice cream bar. Truman had his first Holiday concert on Friday. I think I had tears in my eyes for most of it. My little boy is growing up (I guess that's what they do!). He sang a few songs, but mainly looked a little bored. At one point he was facing the back and talking to his friends, or playing with the bells around his neck. Regardless, it was adorable and he was so proud for Jerry, Oliver and I to be there to watch him. He had a smile from ear to ear when he saw us, which warmed my heart.


We also spent time this year to celebrate Hanukkah. Truman loved lighting the candles, and Oliver loved eating latkes. One evening we invited the Smiths over as Harry was very interested in the holiday. We had a fun evening full of dreidels and latkes!

I'm off! There is so much to do in the next two weeks! Happy Holidays everyone!

Tale of the Pink Pajamas

A couple of weeks ago Truman and I went shopping. Truman needed some new pants, as he doesn't seem to want to stop growing. We got into the checkout line and Truman ran up to a pair of pink Christmas pajamas, put them up to him and said "Mom, I have to have these pink pajamas". How could a daughter-less mother refuse her son? As soon as we got home he wanted to try them on. He watched himself in the mirror as he got dressed and said "Don't I look so sweet". Needless to say, they are his favourite pair. I think Truman totally looks like he is from the 70's in this pic!

My dear Oliver LOVES to destroy my kitchen any chance he can get. He thinks it is great fun to pull EVERYTHING out of the cupboards. The only problem, is that it is a HUGE safety hazard especially when he decides he wants to run around. Oliver is fiercely independent these days, he doesn't want my help at all. He would rather not hold my hand when we walk which has resulted in not one, but three accidents three days in a row. A huge scrape on his forehead, one on his nose and a huge bump on his head. The great thing is, he barely cries, and he is off running again!

He has been a little under the weather over the past few days and I have enjoyed having him sleep/nap on my chest for comfort. I realize that these moments will become fewer as the days and years go on. Almost makes me want to have another, almost.

On the weekend we had the O'Brien clan over for breakfast. It was fun watching the kids interact and play. Here is a shot of the boys, I love how each one of them is looking in a different direction! Too cute!

Happy Hallowe'en

Hallowe'en started on Friday for us this year. Truman's JK class put on a parade for the school, so I thought I would dress Olie up in his costume too so he could prepare for Sunday night. Little Olie stole the show in his "little stinker" costume! In fact, there were strangers taking pictures of him and Oliver didn't mind at all. Truman was so proud to be wearing his shark costume....he loved trying to scare his friends.

Truman enjoyed trick-or-treating this year...Jerry took Truman in the neighbourhood, while Oliver and I handed out candy. Oliver had to put the treats in the bags and would get upset if I did it.... my little helper. We even took Oliver to a few houses so he could get in on the action. These days he just wants to be a big boy too!

When Truman got home (after an hour) he really wanted a treat or two, how could I deny him on this night? So Truman settled on a bag of chips, and said that he would share them with Oliver and I. Well, the door bell rang and Truman went to help Jerry hand out some candy. My youngest son never misses an opportunity, epsecially when it comes to food, so he went over to the table and grabbed the bag of chips while his brother was busy. I can't tell you the commotion that this caused, but luckily there were still a few chips left for Truman!

I'm not sure if you noticed, but if you look closely in the top picture Oliver is wearing two different shoes, one brown shoe and one blue shoe. Oliver loves to play with his shoes, trying to put them on, or sometimes hiding them in places. Friday morning, I went to put on his shoes and realized that some had disappeared. I looked everywhere for them in the small amount of time I had to get the kids out the door and to school. For the next day I tore apart the house trying to find the missing shoes. Finally, Saturday afternoon we found them in my pasta pot in the kitchen!

Hope everyone had a fun and safe Hallowe'en....now I need to go and take down all the decorations!

Begging for Donuts

Almost every Saturday morning we head to Tim Horton's for breakfast. We have been doing this since Truman was able to eat bagels and possibly even before. We now have our close friends and neighbours the Smith's join us. The three older boys (Harry, Truman and Jude) share a sprinkle donut, that is until the youngest child took notice, and wow does he notice. Not only does he want in on the deal, we often have to hide the donut until he finishes his bagel. My youngest son has a sweet tooth! He loves Tim Horton's so much that even when we are out for a walk and we pass the restaurant he starts to shake in anticipation of getting a timbit (please note I hardly oblige). Earlier this week we were playing at the park. All of a sudden Oliver gets up and starts walking towards a woman with a Tim Horton's bag. My child starts begging her for some and didn't stop until he left with half a chocolate donut in hand. Yikes!

On Monday Oliver had his 15 month appointment. We were not surprised to find out that Oliver weighed 25 lbs and is 77 cm in length. Funny however, this puts him only at the 50th percentile for weight. Who are these other babies? I want to know! Oliver didn't even flinch when he received his first shot, the second one sent him in hysterics and into my arms. Poor thing.

Earlier this week we had our first library class and I had my first glimpse of Oliver following in his brother's footsteps. Wow did my son put on the charm. He hardly sat on my lap, but instead worked the room. He sat with the teacher, danced around to the music and checked out the other kids. The only time he would come to me was for a hug now and again. By the end of the class, everyone knew Oliver's name!

Truman has been such a delight lately! Funny how right now, Oliver is the more difficult child. Other than not listening to me, Truman has become, shall I say, almost easy? He is kind and helpful to his little brother, wants to help me out in the kitchen, and he is very interested in doing his homework every night. So much so that on Friday night when my parents were babysitting, Truman had gone up to bed and then told his grandmother that he couldn't go to sleep yet because he needed to finish his homework first! My mother told him it was Friday and that he had the whole weekend to complete it which seemed to satisfy him. Hopefully, when he is in high school he will still have the same attitude. I can only hope!

Fall Fun

This past weekend, the family went on our annual trip to Chudleigh's Apple Farm. This year we unfortunately were minus two family members. My mom couldn't come as she was sick and my dear hubby had a work function. It was blistering cold and felt a little more like winter than fall. Good thing we all brought hats and mits to keep us warm. But nothing could keep us away from picking some more delicious apples. Avery and Truman had so much fun playing together, feeding the animals and just being little monkeys. I can only imagine how much fun it will be next year when there are four little boys running around!

What else has been happening this fall? Well for starters, Truman got his first goal in soccer. We were all so proud of him! Although, he did pick up the ball, run to the net, put the ball down and kick it into goal. A goal is still a goal, especially at this age. He was beaming!

The last few Friday afternoons after school, I have taken the boys to Sherway Farmers' Market. Truman, Oliver and I meet Tina and Avery there for some shopping and then lunch. Truman loves to pick out a type of fruit or veggie to take home. Tina bought him a pumpkin on our first excursion and he has wanted to bring one home every week since! Sad that the market is only open until the end of October. Only a couple more weeks to bring home the harvest!

Oliver has changed so much in the past few weeks. It is amazing the independence that walking has created. He seems so much more confident in himself and is turning into a toddler. Oh how sad and exciting at the same time. Oliver insists on trying to use a spoon and fork at meal times, which can be quite messy at times. If Truman does something, Oliver copies his every move. My oh my is my youngest son strong. If he wants to get into something (usually a cupboard) he wont hesitate to push me away! Strong like ox!


Oliver continues to be sweet as ever and gives the best snuggles. However, according to my sister, he does seem to have a mischievous or adventurous side. The other day I found him climbing up on the piano stool, just standing there, on top of it. You see he saw Truman do it a few days before. So, I am sure he was thinking, if my brother can do it, why can't I?

Four Year Check Up

I am still having a hard time putting my head around the fact that I have a four year old, that he is in kindergarten, and that my life revolves around what to pack for lunch and what activity we have on any given day. How quickly life changes. A few years ago, sans children, Jerry and I would lazily wake up on a weekend morning around ten, somewhat hungover and our biggest decision would be where we would go for breakfast. Now weekends are packed with trips to Tim Horton's, the market, soccer games, playing at the park, birthday parties, going to the zoo or some other event of one kind or another. Just writing this list makes me exhausted!

Oh, so where was I going with this? Yes, I remember! I took Truman for his yearly check up on Wednesday. My eldest son weighs a mere 45 lbs and is 44 inches in height. This places him in the 90th plus percentile for both weight and height. Yikes! Soon, I will be looking up at him when I have to discipline him, which probably won't go over too well, especially since he seems to think he's the boss most days. In fact, I am fairly sure I heard him tell his father that over the weekend. Ahhh, the joys of having a four year old!

Truman started soccer last weekend, and he is part of the Polliwogs team. He really seems to like soccer. To our amazement we watched him run and kick the ball with ease. I know, not a huge feat, but for our somewhat uncoordinated, not very athletic son, we for a moment thought we had the next Beckham on our hands. His favourite position? Goal keeper!

Oliver's personality is showing more and more each day. He is starting to hold his own with his big brother and loves to mimic everything that Truman does. If Truman is doing something, you can be sure that Oliver too wants to try. Oliver prefers walking to crawling now and he desperately wants to "talk" to us.

Today we ventured to Chudleigh's Apple Farm. I took some pictures with my blackberry that I wanted to upload, but unfortunately they were small and not that clear. Regardless, we had a wonderful time even though it was extremely busy. The Topolski family will be travelling there again soon with the Braun's and O'Brien's. I can't wait to get some more Honey Crisp. Delish!

Truman's First Day of School and Oliver is walking

We are so proud of our eldest son, today he started his first day of kindergarten. It was touch and go, as last night we discovered that Truman had a double ear infection. When he woke up Wednesday morning, he wasn't himself at all, he had been crying for over an hour, he complained that his ear hurt, and he was quite mopey. Completely not himself...here I thought that it had everything to do with starting kindergarten....mommy's spidey sense was off.

We debated all night what we should do about the first day of school, but when Truman bounded into our bedroom this morning and bounced all over me, I had my answer. Wow do antibiotics kick in fast! Truman was so excited to wear his backpack and told me about all of the things he saw in the classroom that he could play with. He gave me a kiss and off he went and enjoyed his first day. Mom didn't even shed one tear!

Our little Oliver has changed so much in the past few weeks. He is really trying to communicate with us (or just communicate with anyone who will listen). He has recently become obsessed with a little bear that aunt Misty gave Truman when he was born. So much so, that Oliver must have it with him at all times. He loves "bear bear" so much, that I believe he helped Olie start walking, as he loves to hold him while on the move. So mommy's life just got busier as Olie now prefers walking to crawling. We just have to work on his stability a little bit!

Happy 4th Birthday Truman! Oliver takes a few steps!

Today, my baby turned four. I have been thinking about Truman's birthday now for weeks and anticipating how it would affect me. You see, not only is Truman turning four, but on Tuesday he finishes day care and then in a few weeks he is off to kindergarten. When I think about Truman leaving day care I am in tears....funny, considering three years I had the same response as I dropped him off for the first time. I am just not ready for my angel to go to "big boy" school...although I am also excited for the year to come. I can't tell you how many times today I just held Truman in my arms and hugged him as tightly as I could.

So, how did we celebrate? On Saturday morning we had a cooking party for Truman at Loblaws. We had a blast as we hope did all our guests. The kids made fruit kabobs, pizza and then decorated cupcakes. Fun! Later in the afternoon we had the family over for (two) cakes (made by Tina, of course) and coffee. Tina, being the super awesome aunt that she is, made a chocolate cake just for Truman. I had a piece tonight, and it was delicious, as was the watermelon ice cream cake.

Today, since it was so hot outside, we spent the entire day in the pool! What a great day to have a birthday. Then the Topolski clan went out for a nice family dinner together at a local restaurant. Both Jerry and I were amazed at how well both boys behaved. Maybe the threat of losing a cupcake helped Truman be on his best behaviour?

Our little Olie is gaining his confidence and has been taking a few steps solo over the last couple of days. He still prefers to cruise, hold your hand or crawl at high speeds, but on occasion I can trick him into walking towards me. He is gaining an interest in books and is following his brothers footsteps in his love of animals. His three favourite words seem to be "dog", "cat" and "duck", although at times these three words can sound the same!

The next few weeks I will be busy preparing for the upcoming school year. Trying to figure out what to pack in school lunches and planning after shcool activities. I am sure I will be fighting off tears on Truman's first day.

Truman, I want to wish you the most wonderful birthday. I love you with all of my heart and I am so happy that you are a part of my life. I look forward to learning more about you and watching you grow.

A Trip "North" and Six New Pearly Whites

Two years ago the Topolski Family made the (short) trip up to Geneva Park, which is just outside Orillia, or for those who like to gamble, about three minutes from Rama. This year, our family decided that a reunion was in order. So family members from all over came for this joyous mini get-away. The Dietrich-Topolski Family travelled from Belgium, Ola and Eric joined us from Vancouver, Peter and Danka from Calgary and Sharon and Morton from Windsor. We rented a lovely 11 bedroom home and it accommodated all of us wonderfully. The Topolski Family have been vacationing at Geneva Park for the last 40 years, so it was great that so many people could attend.

There were many great memories made on this trip. Truman and his cousin, Joachim played amazingly together, they meshed like salt and pepper. When Truman woke up in the morning, the first thing he asked about was Joachim. Each morning, we sent the boys to the Shire (where Anya and Truman attended when they were kids). I was a little worried about Truman on the first morning, Wanda had gone to check on the boys and she saw Truman playing on his own, away from the other kids. I had to go and see him in action myself. When I got there, he was bossing a couple of the other boys around - now that's the Truman I know. I guess he needed the time to get comfortable.

Aunt Ola was amazing with both children, no surprise there since she works with kids for a living. She also ignited Truman's desire to spell things....he had started to be interested in how words were spelled, but now he asks about almost everything. Amazingly, he remembers how to spell the words that Ola taught him. Love it!

One afternoon, I took Truman to the beach after lunch, while Oliver was napping with Daddy. Truman and I had fun collecting shells, making sand castles and swimming. Luckily, Oopa and David came to relieve me for a bit and played in the water with Truman. The water was amazing, since it only reached chest height on the kids, so no life jackets were needed. I can't even tell you how many times David threw him under the water and Truman kept coming back for more. We finally had to pry him out, shaking from the cold water, blue lips and all. I think he spent a total of 4 hours in the water.

Poor Oliver had a little bit of a rough trip, five teeth decided to pop out at once. Although, he wasn't that cranky considering the quantity of teeth coming in, he definitely was not himself. He barely ate (except for bread) and had extremely long naps. Oliver for whatever reason did not like the lake water (he's a pool guy) and also didn't like touching sand. So, basically he is not that into the beach. His favourite pastime was climbing the stairs at the house, he loves to climb stairs!

One evening, we decided to let the boys have a sleep-over, thinking that it would be a good idea, and that the kids would easily fall asleep because they were so tired. Well, both Joachim and Truman are talkers, so you can only imagine where this was going. Truman and Joachim were discussing whether or not monsters exist and if they were under the bed. After a few empty threats, turning on lights, turning off lights, nothing was going to get these kids to sleep. Both boys were exhausted, and Truman easily fell asleep in his own bed, alone. Although, when Truman woke up he asked where Joachim was. Maybe, we will try again before his cousin returns to Europe.

Baba, the amazing woman she is, also joined us at Geneva Park. I could tell she was so happy to be with her family. She completely stunned me, when one late afternoon, she walked down to the beach with Danka, to see her four great-grandsons play.

We are now home, and back into routine (somewhat) and are planning to enjoy the last few weeks of summer. Oliver has decided to pop one last tooth (why stop now?). We have Truman's birthday to celebrate in a few weeks, and one last wedding to attend. I also have a road trip to take with my girlfriends (sans kids). Woop woop! Summer, summer, summertime!

Happy First Birthday Oliver!!

One year ago, Jerry and I headed to the hospital for the birth of our second baby. We were having a planned c-section, so we believed that everything was in order. However, our doctor asked us to move up the date of the birth from July 14th to the 11th. Why would I even think about negotiating with the man who was about to cut me open?? Oliver Henri Topolski was born at 11:34 am and we could not be more delighted to see and hold him. We had been waiting for our baby for a long time. We were not shocked that we had another boy and to be honest I was happy to be giving Truman a little brother.

Since this was our second baby, things seemed a lot easier. Jerry and I adjusted very quickly to having a new bundle of joy at home. I was often told that having a second child is a lot more work, but I haven't found that. I mean, I am a lot busier, but Oliver has been such an easy baby and Truman such a helpful and excellent big brother.

I am often told by people that Oliver has a sense of calm about him. I couldn't agree more. Since his birth, he fills me with such a sense of peace and joy. He has a sweet, good-natured way about him and he rarely gives me trouble (except for eating). He takes his time with things and is very happy-go-lucky. I feel so very blessed to have him in my life. I really believe that our children teach us things about life and both Truman and Oliver have some good lessons!

We celebrated Oliver's birthday yesterday with family and a few close friends. It was a beautiful day and I am hoping that everyone enjoyed themselves and had a lot of fun. My dear sister, made the most beautiful cupcake cake and Aunt Misty was our photographer. A big THANK YOU to both!!! Oliver seemed to have a lot of fun (he loves kids) and enjoyed having cake for the first time! YUM!

There seem to be changes everyday in my youngest son, and he keeps surprising me with new tricks. He loves to climb up stairs (yes, we have baby proofed the house), he will blow kisses to say good-bye, and he loves to clap his hands and dance to music. He has become a very speedy crawler and I am hoping that he doesn't walk too soon! Then mommy will have two boys to run after!

Today we went to the doctor for Oliver's 12 month check-up. I was shocked with the numbers and percentiles. Oliver weighs 22lbs which is the 38th percentile and is 75cm long (42nd percentile). He's a chubby baby, so I thought for sure his percentile would have been higher! He's just lighter than he looks! He did very well with his shots even though the appointment was in the middle of his nap time.

I've attached a few more pictures of the party:

I think most of you already know, but recently I resigned from my job to stay home with Oliver and Truman. It is something I have been thinking about and considering for awhile now. I am very thankful and excited for the opportunity to be with them and experiencing the many, many milestones with both of them.

HAPPY 1ST BIRTHDAY OLIVER!!!