Jackie's 1st Tree

Love Your Face!

It's a Photo Purge....

We've neglected the Manning Memo horribly. Things are all out of whack. Now Jackie is feeding Colin...

This was one of the most fun nights in recent history. Christmas music, a toasty fire, pot roast, a happy baby and wine make for a very enjoyable evening.

Jackie in her glory, sitting up, surrounded by her toys.

My parents have nutty friends. They heard about this "ugly sweater" concept and applied it to a family Christmas party.

Look at my sweater, scary stuff...

I just think this is cute. Jackie's pouty mouth, staring me down - with cute baby boots. Love it!!

What will we be eating tonight mom and dad???

Rice cereal and bananas - kinda weird...

You can always make Grandma's happy with handprints on their birthday.

Jackie, in her furry bunny coat from Gramma Judy and Granpa Yarry!!

Thanksgiving with Gramma Marty.

Aunt Julia sings the best songs...

Uncle Cason's not so bad either.

Happy Half Birthday Sweet Baby Girl!!

I cannot believe this day has come!! My tiny baby Jackie is now 6 months old, sitting up, smiling, laughing, eating big people food and developing the most kissable cheeks imaginable.

We could not be more in love with her. What did we do before she arrived?

We love you sweet girl!!

Too Cute

Sitting up and taking notice

I am new to being a father and to babies in general. I was the youngest of my family so, other than my niece Abbey, Jackie is my first real exposure to a baby. I have to say it has been an amazing 5 month. To watch her go from not being able to hold her head up to now where she is starting to sit up on her own is amazing. Her personality is starting to really come out and I am sure she is going to be an amazing person. She is able to recognize people when they come in the room and smiles when I look at her (ok not all the time). I know all parents say this but I wish I could put a freeze frame on her just so I can enjoy this bit more. I know she has to grow up but the moments fly by so fast and I want more. I guess it is on to the next phase... MOBILITY!! Are we ready... we shall see...

Introducing our Newest Porch Sitter

My mom's name is Noreen. And my mom has the best porch in the world.

When Colin and I were trying to pick a baby name, we used this great baby name book that would describe what the average person assumes about someone with a particular name. For example, Noreen was on the list of "porch sitters." At first I told Colin not to tell her - it didn't seem like a compliment. Well, we all know Colin doesn't do well with keeping secrets or keeping anything in his head for that matter (love you so much Darlin :-)), so he let that one slip to my mom. She just grinned like it was the best think for anyone to assume about her.

Mom and Dad's porch is a pretty magical spot. So many great converstations occur there. Jackie loves to sit on the swing and feel the breeze on her face and watch birds fly from tree to tree. It's a wonderful place to catch a much needed nap as well. :-)