Squawkes

We had a nice time at the zoo yesterday with some friends. We went, unknowingly but fortunately, at feeding time, so most of the animals were out and active. Abby’s favorites were the orangutans, the flamingos, and the ducks. My favorites were orangutans, the hornbills, and the ostrich. In addition to seeing animals, Abby helped me push the stroller around (a now-favorite activity she picked up from cousin Anya), ate french fries (a special treat we get every time we go to the zoo), and made interesting patterns in the dirt with her fingers.

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Jake and I felt under the weather today, so we spent the day at home resting–which is hard to do with a little one running around. Here are some of today’s highlights:

Pics 1 - 3: Obviously Abby enjoys bath time (all but the shampooing part, when she tries to climb out of the tub to get away from the water pouring down her face and back). She LOVES splashing the water. I especially like pic 2 - I asked her to smile, and this is what she did.

Pic 4: We walked up and down the hallway for 10 minutes with Abby parading around in my shoes. She would stop in front of the mirror at the end of the hallway each time to admire herself.

Pic 5: Look at all those beautiful teeth!! She has all her baby teeth now. Wow!

By the way, Abby had her 15 month checkup this week. She weighs 18 lbs 1.5 oz (which puts her in the low 3 percent, relative to other kids her age), and she is 30 inches tall. The doctor said she’s perfect, but we already knew that! =)

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We had a delightful Thanksgiving at Mom and Dad Hawkes’ house. It was crazy, but lots of fun, with all the kids running around. They all got along well, and enjoyed sharing each others’ toys and company. 

After missing her afternoon nap (at her own insistence), Abby decided to go to bed at 5 pm on Tuesday evening. The consequence was that she woke up, bright eyed and ready to play, at 2:30 in the morning. Even the dogs, who usually love any excuse to get excited, were not eager to be awake. You can imagine how Mommy felt…

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Abby’s hair is FINALLY long enough to put into a ponytail on top of her head. Sometimes she leaves it alone, and sometimes she insists on removing it. Yes, I know it looks a bit silly; but you have to admit, it’s kinda cute, too. =)

My sister, Jill (a photographer) took some pictures of Abby in my parents’ backyard in Utah. These are just a few of my favorites. Thanks, Jill!!

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We met some friends at the park today. The kids weren’t very interested in playing with each other, but it was nice for us moms to share some time and conversation for an hour or so. As you can see, they both enjoyed the bubbles very much!

Oh! Abby learned to turn around in a circle yesterday. She’s been doing it all day. She also learned to march (not sure where from) and to walk backwards. She is very proud of herself (as she should be).

Pic 1: We went to the zoo this week. Abby was only interested in the animals if they were moving — the zebras were her favorite this time. She enjoyed walking around looking at various plants and rocks. She found a boulder near the owl exhibit and played with/near it for a long time. Silly girl!

Pic 2: We had some dividend dollars at REI, so we bought Abby this little camping chair. Isn’t it cute?! She loves sitting in it and swinging her legs.

Pic 3: Abby has taken to walking like this–with her head turned to the side–when she’s trying to be sneaky or pretending to be shy.

Pic 4: We installed a new ceiling fan this week and Abby is fascinated with it. She loves to pull the cords to turn the light/fan on and off.

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Abby and I went up to Utah for a week in earlier this month. We had a great time with my family!! For some reason I can’t explain, I didn’t take any pictures of us with my family (except Abby and Grandpa dancing together). Be warned, family, next time we come to visit, I’m going to have my camera out!

While in Utah, Abby learned to rock herself in the little rocking chair, to slither downstairs on her tummy, and to jump on the mini trampoline. She said “flower” and “pumpkin” (or something similar). She became very fond of Tickle Me Elmo and Papa Bear. And she showered Nana & Grandpa, Grandma & Grandpa, Aunt Kate, Aunt Jill, and Uncle Mike with hugs, kisses, and smiles.

Thank you, everyone, for a wonderful time!!

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The Hawkes family has a lot of fall birthdays! To celebrate Kiki’s birthday, the family (most of us) got together for a picnic at the park. The kids had a great time playing on the slides and in the grass. Abby LOVED digging in the sand with a shovel (notice she’s wearing pearls, silly girl).

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