Baby Girl Hunter

Pillow Talk...

2010-04-15T22:01:00.000-04:00

The following is the actual conversation shared between mother and daughter while lying in bed...

A - "Mommy, where is God?"

B (Really!! Are you serious? You're three and we are having the God talk? How am I suppose to know where God really lives...) - "God lives in Heaven"

A - "Mommy, where is Heaven?"

B (Gee, where is Heaven...) - "Heaven is way up in the sky, past the clouds."

A - "God lives in the clouds!?!? Can we go there and visit?"

B - "No, we only go there to visit after we die." (Am I going to have to explain what it is to die? I should have been more selective with my words!!!)

A - "No. We can visit. When we go can I wear my Ariel pyjamas?"

B - "Ummm...sure...I am sure God would love your Ariel jamas."

A - "No. I don't think so. I think God likes Snow White. That is his favorite princess. I will have to wear those."

Man. Kids have tough questions...

Arrrggghhhh Matey!

2010-01-23T21:30:00.000-05:00

Nope, not Snow White, Sleeping Beauty or Cinderella. Our little princess had to be a pirate. Actually she insisted on it. Nothing else would do.
She was so excited when we came across this great costume and had to try it on each day leading up to Halloween! Then she discovered that pirates had parrots. Well, the search was on this little scoundrel's attire would not be complete without the pet on her shoulder!!
She had a blast going door to door asking the neighbours for "booty".

Bath Time with my Buddy

2010-01-23T21:11:00.000-05:00

Addison loves having her evening bath! But the best thing of all is her new favorite bath toy! She loves washing his hair and scrubbing that cute little tummy.
Bath time makes for some great blackmail shots for later in life!!
AKA: "Oops. Addison just wash his tummy sweetie! Oh...well...ummm...ahhh...they're only little."

I won't post that pic. But, let's just say that Addison hasn't really figured out yet that his is much different from hers...

If I only knew then...

2010-01-23T20:52:00.000-05:00

what I know now!!
I though being the mom to one was SOOOOOO busy! HA!!
One was a breeze compared to life with 2!!
I call it the 3 Ps of parenting. Pee, poop and puke.
If one child is not doing one of those three than the other is!! It is an endless cycle of the 3 Ps. I am just happy when a day passes and my clothes aren't covered with one of the Ps.
Ok, who am I kidding, a whole day? Really I am happy when 1 hour passes and I'm not covered with one of those!
Anyways, this really is just precursor as to why I haven't blogged lately.
Ok. Momma's got to play catch up.
Be prepared to head back to pics from the fall!
This blog is as much a "scrapbook" of memories for the kids as it is to keep friends and family updated. Hope you don't mind a trip back to the future!

A Babe and her Belly...button...

2009-11-17T21:46:00.000-05:00

Some little ones have blankies, other use soothers, some like their thumbs or find stuffies soothing. But our babe...she likes her thumb and her belly button.
We don't know how it started or why but when Addison needs a little comforting she sucks ner thumb and sticks her finger in her belly button.

The belly button is such a necessity that if she can't access it, there is some serious tears and drama! "My belly!! I need my belly". Regular shirts allow the easiest access. Skirts and dresses are simply hiked up. However, winter coats and carseat straps pose a serious problem.
When we asked the doctor if this is normal, he response was, "I've seen this before, I think...". Not very reassuring.
All I can say is that I hope she grows out of it at some point...

What I'm Thankful For...

2009-11-17T21:31:00.000-05:00

When you ask someone what they are thankful for they will often say their health, their home and their family. When you ask Addison what she would like to give thanks for she says her chairs, her curtains, her books and her baby David.
I am thankful for all of the above. But mostly I am thankful for the honour of being the mom of such a beautiful daughter.

"Addisonisms"

2009-09-05T20:42:00.000-04:00

Upon seeing Georgian Bay for the First Time - "That's a big puddle!"

Macaroni is "Crackaroni"

Hamburgers are "Hang-ga-bers"

"This is my pool" - When talking about Pine Lake (the cottage)

Answers any, and almost all, questions with: "Because yes" and "Because no"

The seashells in her fish tank are "Shelves"

Loves to tell people "You're my best friend"

I'm a Big Sister!!

2009-09-05T20:29:00.000-04:00

It is hard to believe that my baby girl is a big sister. I love that the time stamp on these pics say 12:15 pm. 4 hours and 5 minutes after David was born. Addison has been anticipating being a big sister for many months now and has taken to the role like it is what she was born to do. Upon seeing David for the first time the excitement spread across her face as she exclaimed, "Mommy! It's our baby!". Her first reaction was to go around and get him some toys to play with. Addison loves to hold David, she likes to hold him, and kisses him goodnight. But, her favorite thing to do is to help mommy change his diaper. What a great big sister!!

Egg-cellent!!

2009-07-28T20:08:00.007-04:00

Easter was so egg-citing this year! Addison woke up to find that the Easter Bunny had hidden bright plastic eggs all throughout our backyard! She ran throughout the yard collecting all the eggs in her bunny basket, not caring if there was even anything inside of them!! When she was all done she looked up at daddy and asked if there were anymore. So, she closed her eyes, daddy hid them for her and she found them all again. I think this could have been an all day activity!

After our morning egg hunt, Addison got dressed in her "princess" dress that Grandma Bright sent from Florida and we headed over to Grandma and Papa Hunters for more Easter fun and food!

After a day of way too much fun and even more sugar, our little bunny was pooped!!

All About me in March

2009-07-28T19:57:00.002-04:00

My Favorite March Sentence - "I hungy" and "Whas Dat?"

March Weight - 25 lbs

Favorite Toy in March - "Ruff, Ruff" (stuffed puppy from daddy) and "Colours" (Crayons)

Favorite March Activity - Learning to ride my "bike"

Favorite Food - "Shocklat" (Chocolate)

The Cuteness of Me...

2009-07-28T19:48:00.003-04:00

I Can Do it, I can do it.

2009-03-21T22:57:00.004-04:00

She can run, she can play, she can slide and she can climb. Even though we look at her and tell her that the ladder is to steep, the ropes are too hard, or the swing is too high. We might tell her that she is just little. But, she continually shows us that she can do it. Or she will try until she can't try anymore. All the while repeating her new motto: "I can do it, I can do it."

Our Little LOVEly

2009-03-21T22:51:00.002-04:00

She is the LOVE of our lives!!

A Belated Birthday Blog...

2009-03-21T21:48:00.005-04:00

It is hard to believe that our baby girl is now 2. It has been 2 years of daily firsts. From walking to words, every step of the way has been an adventure. Parenting presents daily challenges. But, the one thing that has never been a challenge is to have absolute unconditional love for our little girl. The party started out with everyone meeting at the house and then, those who were brave enough, headed out to the local hill for a little tobogganing. I say the brave because it was -25c before the windchill!! We had to do it for a few pictures!! We all thought it was going well until about 10 steps away from the vehicles every single child there started crying. What a sight we must have been! Horrible parents dragging their children to the top of this hill kicking and screaming all for the sake of a few pics and one slide! After a very unsuccessful "sledding" party we headed back for cake and presents.
I don't know if you can see it in the pictures, but Addison has tears frozen on her cheeks!

When we got back to the house the youngsters were able to make paper and cottonball snowmen. Addison loved this activity so much that she wanted absolutely nothing to do with her cake. We actually had to try and convince her that this was a great thing! We blew out the candle, took some pictures and then gave her back her snowman. She didn't even try a bite of her own birthday cake! Ahhh...is this what they call the terrible twos!?!?

The one part of the party that was a big hit with Addison was the presents!! She was so sweet and grateful for each gift. Each present that she opened was met with an "Ohhhh!" or "Wow!" by Addison. Then she would proceed, unprovoked, to give the gift giver a big hug and thank you. It actually got to the point that we had to stop her because the whole process was taking to long!

It was a day of love and celebration of a very special little girl. We are excited to see what the next year has in store for the three of us!!

Addison's Saying of the Week...

2009-03-19T14:47:00.004-04:00

One morning this week I was in the bathroom getting ready for my day when Addison decided to join me.
Curtis was in the shower at this time and as he exited the shower, Addison looked up at him with a big, sweet, innocent smile. Pointing at him she asked, "Daddy's 'gina'?
That is not Gina, as in the name, but "gina" as in vagina.
Curt, absolutely embarrassed ran from the bathroom quicker than I have seen him move in a long time!!

I Love This Face

2008-08-28T21:41:00.005-04:00

Stuck on Stickers

2008-08-27T23:20:00.004-04:00

Addison had her first introduction to stickers this summer. She has found that not only is it fun to put them on paper, but that it can be a blast to plaster herself as well!! Notice the focus and concentration on her face. This is serious business.

Little Miss Nudey Pants

2008-07-23T21:38:00.002-04:00

You can't deny that there is anything cuter than a little nudey baby bum...

Preparing for the Big Event

2008-07-23T21:23:00.004-04:00

We were so excited when Tim and Kate asked if we would consider allowing Addison to be their flower girl. Addison and Jax (Kate's nephew, the ring bearer) hit it off right away. Well, Addison hit it off with Jax and Jax kind of played hard to get. Jax is a sweet, shy little one and Addison is almost his polar opposite. He didn't quite know what to think when this little girl didn't hesitate to come right up to him, play with his shoes, and give him a good "whap" in the chest when he got in her way. They were definitely a great pairing for the wedding and were certain to put on a great show on the big day.

Here Comes the Flower Girl!!

2008-07-23T21:19:00.004-04:00

And what a flower girl she made!! We were a little worried as the day of Uncle Tim and Aunt Kate's wedding started and Addison was not in the best of moods. Having a toddler in a wedding party makes for a little unpredictability. But, she pulled it off like a pro.

As we approached the long aisle to the front of the ceremony site Addison was quite brave, walking on her own. Then all of a sudden she got a good look at what she was in for and all the people looking straight at her and Jax and Addison had a change of heart. She stopped walking and put her hands straight up insisting that mommy carry her. As we walked down the aisle, I pointed out Uncle Tim at the front. Addison was thrilled to see him and the big elephant he was holding. It took no more persuading. She wanted down and ran to the front to snatch that elephant from her Uncle. She did it!! We were so proud!!

Then came the ceremony... Addison was a doll through the whole thing! She spent the whole time wandering around talking to people, making sure her face was right in front of the photographer, putting on a show and generally trying to upstage the bride and groom. At one point she even wandered over to Aunt Kate and Uncle Tim as they were exchanging rings and stood right in between them, looking up to see what they were up to. During the time where the minister asks if anyone knows any reason why the two should not be married, Addison started giggling for the whole group to hear. She definitely injected a little of her own personality into the day!

Who She Will Become

2008-07-23T21:04:00.002-04:00

It seems pretty hard to believe that our baby is now 18 months old now. Actually she is becoming less and less of a baby and more of a toddler!! It has been such a blast getting to know more about the person that Addison is becoming. She is developing such a wonderful personality and sense of self. There isn't a day that goes by that she doesn't do something that makes us smile or break out into laughter.
Addison is going through the stage where she loves imitating everything that someone else is doing or saying. Today, Curtis was stretching out his arms and she joined right in doing arm circles and following right along. She even thinks it is funny to copy us when we yawn or sigh. Too funny.
There are three things that Addison does right now that makes me giggle. She has a "baby" named Mariam and she loves giving her baby the bottle. Then she will take a sip. Of course it is not a real bottle but it is pretty cute watching her "play mom". It amazes me how creative, imitative, imaginative play comes naturally to little ones.
The second thing she does is she takes anything she can find and uses it as a cloth and cleans up. We were in the boat today and she took daddy's shammy and proceeded to clean the floor and seats. I love it!!
The third thing Addison does is plays "night-night". She takes blankets, sweaters, or anything soft and loves to wrap them around her head. She will walk around forever with these things hanging over her shoulder, draped over her head, or just cuddling with them. Then she wil lie down, cover herself up and say "night-night". It is so sweet!!

They Let the Hunter's in the Zoo!!

2008-05-26T22:04:00.005-04:00

What a wonderful 2nd Mother's Day we had!! Curtis, Addison and I decided to spent the day at the Toronto Zoo. It was Addison's first visit and she loved it!! The tigers were one of the first animals
we saw. Addison looked at them with excitement and let out a "meow".

Ummm...yeah, meow...sort of... She also got a kick out of the Orangutans and the Flamingos.
It was a fabulous day. Beautiful sunshine, wonderful family and fresh air. What more could a mom ask for...

The Kleenex Caper

2008-05-15T22:06:00.005-04:00

At times Addison can be a real little stinker. We are really working on teaching her the difference between the things that are hers to touch and the things that are mommy and daddy's. She is doing really well with this but at times she thinks it is pretty funny to get into things. And, well, we happen to agree. She is so cute that sometimes we just can't get upset with her!

There is Something About Her

2008-03-28T14:57:00.002-04:00

I know that all parents feel that their child is special. But there is just something about Addison. It is like she has the ability to sense when there is someone hurting, or in need. She appears to be extremely sensitive towards others.

We were in the waiting room of the hospital today and Addison immediately took to this one older couple. She was chatting with them, shared her toys with them, wanted them to pick her up etc. We shared stories and they told me about their children who were only an few years younger than me. Addison of course was making them laugh and smile with all her crazy chatting and antics.

At one point the gentleman put Addison on his knee and she cuddled right in. Just then the woman was called in. I mentioned to the man that Addison was about to get an ultrasound and he in turned opened up to say that his wife was about to get a shunt put in for her cancer treatments. She had just been diagnosed with colon cancer. My heart broke for them. And there was Addison being a comfort to him.

When Addison was 5 months old a woman, whom I greatly admire, commented that she had a beautiful old soul. That she could see it in her eyes. I wonder...

Great Grandpa's Girl

2008-03-27T22:26:00.007-04:00

One of the hardest things about living away from "home" is not having Addison see my side of the family on a regular basis.
I never want her to feel disconnected from her "roots".
Last time we were visiting Parry Sound, we were able to spend some time with Addison's Great Grandpa Scale. They hadn't seen each other since Christmas. But, it was like no time had passed. He got right into teasing her and she got right down to showing him who the real boss was.
It was a beautiful thing to see the love in both sets of eyes.

2008-03-23T20:46:00.007-04:00

What a great Easter day it has been!! We couldn't have asked for a better day together as a family.
Our day today began with going to church together for a wonderful Easter celebration. Curtis was hired to play at a local United church and it was a delight to hear him play. Addison loves hearing her daddy play the trumpet. After the service some of the older youth hid hundreds of plastic eggs, filled with chocolate, throughout the sanctuary. Addison was ecstatic at the sight of all the colour and the kids running to gather them. She found a few, dumped out the chocolate and played with the eggs. All the while squealing with delight. It was so cute!!
Later on in the day we went to Nana & Bubs' (Grace & Sid's) house for an Easter feast. It was wonderful fun to visit with Curtis' family. We all ate too much, of course. But especially Addison. After stuffing her face with veggies and beef, we found that she was also a tomato lover!! The girl ate them like they were candy!! Then, oh boy, she found a cupcake. And that was the end of everything. She stuffed it into herself and ate the whole thing. Who knew that such a little girl could pack in the food like that!! It would almost be equal to an adult eating a whole cake!! At one point she thought we were going to take it from her and she freaked!
But, the aftermath...she became this crazed, sugar high being. It was insane!! It was like she was a different child. Addison spent about an hour running mad through the house. Pick up a stuffy, run down the hall, throw the stuffy, chase the cat, jump on grandma, pick the stuffy up, run into the kitchen, and on and on. All the while talking and babbling like a mad woman. I have never laughed so hard! Ever wonder what a baby on speed would look like? Give them a cupcake.
It was a wonderful Easter and I can't wait until next year when Addison will finally be old enough to have a visit from the Easter Bunny!!

HIGHS and lows

2008-03-14T21:02:00.003-04:00

Well, we have had a very up an down month.
It started with waking up on the morning of January 23rd (Addison's birthday) to a baby who was choking and having difficulty breathing. SCARY!! We rushed Addison to the local ER where she was diagnosed with having the croup. The doctor gave our little one a dose of steroids to help open up her breathing passageways. We left the hospital with Addison in better spirits and mommy feeling a little better. But, we were also given the warning that the upcoming nights would be a little rough. And indeed they were!
For the next couple weeks we were woken up several times a night to our baby coughing, choking and having difficulty breathing. There is nothing worse than the totally helpless feeling we had during these nights. The only thing we could do was to take her into the steamy bathroom and hope that would help relieve her congested passage ways.
After two weeks, with little improvement, Addison was finally diagnosed with RSV (a respiratory virus) and again we were told that there was nothing we could do. It would have to just run its course. But, if in another week it was no better, we were to go back.
The week that followed was one of the most difficult that we have ever had to experience with her. Addison became very lethargic. For a week she didn't play, wouldn't walk around and only wanted to cuddle and suck her thumb. We went a week without hearing our little girl laugh. She wasn't our usual joyful little girl. Our hearts were breaking.
So, back to the doctor. Our paediatrician informed us that, on top of everything else, Addison now also had an ear infection. How much more could this little one have thrown at her!?!? So, he prescribed her an antibiotic to help with the infection and a puffer to help with the cough and breathing.
We got her home, gave her the meds and put her to bed. After a two hour sleep she woke up a totally different baby! She was ready to play and we felt elated to hear her laugh. The miracle of modern medicine.
Hopefully we never have to go through anything like this again! Although I am sure this is not the last illness...

Potty Princess

2008-03-09T23:58:00.006-04:00

During Addison's 1st year check up her pediatrician and I discussed potty training. He mentioned that it was way too early to expect anything on this front but he often encouraged parents to allow the babies to become familiar with potties so that when it "came time" it wasn't such a big deal.
We decided to pull out her "potty throne" and let her have a play. Addison climbed on, and in, it. She loved it! I mean what is there not to love. It opens and shuts, you can sit on it, and it sings. Everything a little heart desires in a potty.
After seeing how much fun Addison had sitting on it, we decided to give it a go. Our goal was to sit her on the potty every night before her bath so that she could become acquainted with her new throne.
First night she sat. Stood up. Cried. Then peed on the floor.
That's ok!! She sat on it. Yeah!! And she peed in front of it. Yeah!! I felt that was a tremendous accomplishment for a 12 month old.
Curtis. Not as impressed. "Can the potty", he said!!
No way. This was too much fun!!
Night two. She sat on the potty while the bath ran. We read a book (that is what we all do on our thrones) and sang "Patta Cake". All of a sudden the potty started playing this crazy trumpet fanfare. "What the heck!", I exclaimed! "We have a faulty throne! It's only suppose to sing when someone pees in it!"
I looked down and sure enough there was pee. In the potty this time. WHAT!?!?
And the rest is history. Addison has taken to peeing on the potty! Now, mind you, she by no means potty trained. She just likes to have her daily piddle on her throne.
She piddles, points at her piddle then gives herself a big clap. What a girl!!

What A Walker!!

2008-02-09T22:41:00.000-05:00

Addison has become quite the walker. Actually, walker is an understatement. Runner would be a more accurate description! It has been about a month since she started taking a few steps here and there. Then, the day after her first birthday, she just took off! Now the girls can't be stopped!
She is so proud of her efforts and often pauses for a moment to applaud her efforts. She will literally stop and clap for herself. It is too cute!
Addison is at the point right now where she is almost refusing to crawl anywhere. She wants to show off her new talent and can often be found walking laps in the basement.
But, the road to walking has not been a smooth one. Our poor little girl has endured her fair share of bumps, bruises, and the occasional bleeding nose. Yes, bleeding nose. That is what landing nose first on a hardwood floor will do to you! But, nothing will hold her back. She shakes it off, stands up, and once again, is off to the races!

The Big Day

2008-02-09T22:20:00.000-05:00

Addison spent her actual birth day hanging out with her mommy and her best friend Ceilidh (and Ceilidh's mommy Thelma) at "Little Feet Fitness and Fun". Little Feet is an indoor play area designed for the little ones.
Addison and Ceilidh had a blast climbing in and around things, jumping in the jumping castle, playing with the balls and riding in the cars. Addison found a few things that she took a quick liking to. The first was the jumping castle. She couldn't actually jump in it but she loved sitting there while the other kids did! The second was anything that she could climb through and the third favorite of the day was the cars that she could climb in and get pushed around. What a great time we had!!
Later on that day we celebrated with Grandma and Grandpa Hunter and Nan and Bubs. We enjoyed a spaghetti dinner and cupcakes (all made by mommy). Mmmmmm...

Splish, Splash. It's a Birthday Bash!

2008-02-07T18:18:00.000-05:00

On January 19th we got together with friends and family to celebrate Addison's 1st birthday. What a party it was!! Some may have thought it a little extravagant for a first birthday party. But it was more than that. It was our opportunity to thank all of our friend and family who have been so wonderful to our new little family over the past year. I guess you could say that it was a "thank for helping us make it to Addison's first birthday" party. Who knew that "parenthood" could be so challenging and yet so rewarding. It is the love and support of our loved ones that keeps us grounded.
The party started of with some splashing and fun in the pool and was followed by some wonderful Italian food and delicious birthday cake.
Addison was given many wonderful and thoughtful gifts. But most importantly was the fact that she was surrounded with loved ones.

Ladies and Gentlemen, WE HAVE A WALKER! Sort of.

2008-01-13T21:17:00.001-05:00

Well, it has been a couple of months now that Addison has been walking around the furniture
(since she was about 9 1/2 months old). And in the last month she has shown her daredevil side and began letting go. It was the cutest thing. She would steady herself. Lift one hand. Slowly raise the other. 1..2..BOOM. On the bum. But she is a determined little one and would get right back up.
Then she would get in a stance with one foot in front of the other, lift the hands, we would get all excited thinking she was going to take a step and she would lift the wrong foot (the one in front) and BOOM. On her bum.
Then Friday. Tah, Dah!! She moved the correct foot and took her first step. It was so exciting!! She is very proud of herself and moves from the footstool to the couch all the while grinning from ear to ear.
To top it all off, she took two steps today. What a show off.
Watch out world. Addison's a walker. Almost.

Winter Wonderland

2008-01-10T22:06:00.000-05:00

Ok. This post might be a little out of order. But I love these pictures and wanted to include them for everyone to see.
Christmas Day in Parry Sound was perfect for a family walk. We bundled up and took Addison out for her first ride in a toboggan. SHE LOVED IT!!
You couldn't ask for a more perfect memorable moment. Crisp white snow, clean fresh air, and the ones you love.

Daycare Sucks!! (For mom anyways!)

2008-01-10T21:36:00.000-05:00

Well, it has begun. Daycare that is. Addison went to daycare for the first time today. Ok. It was just 1/2 the day. But that was long enough for me. I think that leaving my baby with someone else is one of the hardest things that I have had to do.
We have a wonderful daycare provider who loves Addison to pieces. And, well, Addison absolutely loves being there playing with the other kids. It seems to be mom(me) that is having the hardest time with the whole thing.
I really thought the process would be a lot easier. I have spent the last four months dying to have a day to myself. Mmmm...a day shopping, hanging with friends, maybe a movie. All of that without the worry of diapers, feeding, naps, etc. Now it is a different story.
I carried Addison with me everywhere during the nine months I was pregnant with her. And then, for the last year, I have continued to carry her with me almost everywhere I go. For almost the last two years Addison has been my life. Now someone else will be feeding her lunch, putting her down for her naps, and cuddling her when she cries. That's hard.
I guess every child / parent relationship goes through changes. This is just the first of many changes that our family will go through.
On thing is certain. Addison will always be my life. That will never change.

Addison's first Christmas

2008-01-03T22:25:00.001-05:00

What a great Christmas we had this year! Having Addison around for the holidays certainly added a different dimension to the season! We were able to spend Christmas in Parry Sound with the Bright side of the family. Grandma and Grandpa loved having Addison around and didn't spoil her at all (yeah right!). It was great fun watching her go from sitting back and watching how it works to diving right in and ripping the paper. This year it was definitely allabout the paper and boxes. I can just imagine that will all change by next year!!

The Christmas Tree Hunt

2007-12-27T22:12:00.000-05:00

We bundled up and headed out as a family to find the perfect Christmas tree. It is going to be a fun family tradition to select and cut down our own tree. Half the fun of having your own family is starting your own traditions. And this definitely will be one of ours.
Our tree was perfect. Short and plump. We love it!
One of the cutest things about the tree is how Addison lights up every time it is turned on. She has been pretty good about the ornaments as well. For the first few days she found great enjoyment in pulling of the ornaments that jingle and shine (I though ahead and put the unbreakable ones at the bottom). But, that quickly faded and now she just enjoys looking at it. We'll see how that changes next year!

Scarey, scarey Santa!!

2007-12-27T21:59:00.000-05:00

We took Addison to a "Breakfast with Santa". From the look of these photos I think that she would prefer if the breakfast was MINUS Santa!
Curtis and I thought for sure that she would be ok with the jolly old soul. She will go to anyone and doesn't seem to be sacred of beards. For some reason Santa just creeped her right out!! Oh well, it makes for great photos to embarrass her with when she is older. Isn't that what being a parent is all about!?!?

Christmas Photo Fun

2007-12-16T16:25:00.001-05:00

Addison and her best friend Ceilidh (pronounced Kaylie) got together for a fun photo shoot a couple of weeks ago. We dressed the girls, up and down, to get some cute shots. Addison was full of smiles while Ceilidh explored her serious side. We also had an interesting time getting them to stay in one spot long enough to take a picture. These are two busy munchkins!! The resulting pictures were very cute. Here are a few of them. You will also see some in the upcoming Christmas cards, which I hope you will get before Christmas!

We're back!!

2007-12-11T20:55:00.000-05:00

Wow!! It has been ages since I have blogged!! We have been out of commission for a while but we're back! Now where to being...I guess all the way to Halloween!! Here it goes...
Addison was a pumpkin for Halloween. And I do have to say that she was the cutest pumpkin that I have ever seen!!

Fall Photo Shoot

2007-10-14T21:48:00.001-04:00

Pumpkin Patch

2007-09-22T23:07:00.000-04:00

What a beautiful day it was today!! We had to take full advantage of the great weather and headed out with some friends to Whittamore's Pumpkin Patch. There was hay to hang out on, hundreds of pumpkins to pose on (which we did before noticing the "Do not climb on" sign), and even a tractor pulled hayride (which Addison missed because she spent the whole time eating!) What a blast!

Quick Catch Up

2007-09-16T22:24:00.000-04:00

Ok, ok. I know it has been ages since my last post. Summer flies! Time flies!!
I am hoping that in the next few days I will have the opportunity to post a few of our million pictures from this past month. But, until then the written word will have to do.
Addison has been growing in leaps and bounds and she is doing new things all the time! Just recently she has begun saying "mama" and "dada". Now, she hasn't yet figured out that I am "mama" and Curtis is "dada". But I am sure that she will get it soon enough.
Addison has also been teething over the past few weeks. Knock on wood, this hasn't been too bad. Some fussiness but nothing like I thought. She has one adorable tooth on the lower left and I just noticed yesterday that the right one is now working its way through. I am glad for this as I thought she may end up being a one toothed wonder.
I have recently discovered the importance of being an attentive parent. A few weeks ago, when Addison had gotten up a little too early for my liking, we went downstairs where I thought I could lay down on the couch while she played on the floor. Needless to say I accidentally drifted off while my immobile (so I thought) daughter played with her "Rainforest" mat. Well, I was awoken by the most terrifying scream!! I jumped up to find that my "immobile" daughter had made her way to the VCR and her fingers were now stuck in it!! Poor little thing! Needless to say, I no longer sleep while she plays.
Now just because I say that she is mobile doesn't mean that she is crawling yet. But she is working on it. Addison has figured out how to get up on her hands and knees. In this position she will rock back and forth trying her hardest to move forward. Only to collapse (usually onto her face) in utter exhaustion. Crawling is hard work! I'm sure she will get it sooner or later. Although Curtis and I are hoping for the later. Once they start...
Well, I guess that is the past few weeks in the tiniest of nutshells. I will get on the pictures soon. Promise...

Beauty Queen

2007-08-16T08:06:00.000-04:00

Ok. Every parent thinks that their baby is the cutest. Well, now we have the red ribbon to prove it! Last weekend was the Wilbeforce Fair and when our friend Heather heard that there was a Baby Contest she "insisted" that we enter Addison. We laughed a bit about it and then thought, "Hey, why not? It will make for a good story and some cute pictures." Well, much to our surprise, SHE WON!! Too funny! They put all the mommies and babies up on this stage and then 3 judges came around to check out the babies and talk to them. Well, as soon as Addison got up on that stage she looked around, saw the audience, and turned on the charm. I think we have a little performer on our hands! The "grand prize" was a lovely basket of baby stuff and a red ribbon. you will see her hear posing with (and trying to eat) her winnings. Hmmmm...maybe we have a future star...

Congratulations Brian and Andrea!!

2007-08-15T15:13:00.000-04:00

Our friends, Brian and Andrea, were recently married and Addison was able to attend her first wedding. It was a beautiful day for two wonderful friends to begin their "new life" together. It is hard to believe that some day our little girl will grow up to be a bride. It makes me teary just thinking about it.

Beach Baby

2007-08-15T15:03:00.000-04:00

Addison is getting a real kick out of spending time at the cottage this summer. One of her favorite activities is to spend some time playing at our beach. It is the perfect location for her to kick back and get her feet dirty (and hands, and face, and bum). She is at the stage where EVERYTHING is going in her mouth, even the sand.

Swimming Sweetheart

2007-07-22T14:12:00.000-04:00

Addison's friend, Mazie, celebrated her 1st birthday on July 7th by hosting a swimming party.
We had a blast and Addison was able to try swimming out for the first time. Addison took to the water like a little fish. She spent lots of time laughing, splashing, and watching the other kids.

I think we have a little Olympic swimmer in the making!! We will just have to work on perfecting her strokes....

Boating Babe

2007-07-21T10:08:00.001-04:00

For everyone who knows us, you know that spending time at the cottage and in our boat is one of our great loves! So, it wasn't a surprise when Addison immediately took to the boat. She seems to love it (Not that she really has a choice)!! Now, we just have to find skis small enough...

This babe will be helping her daddy drive in no time!!

Mmmmmm...

2007-06-25T23:03:00.000-04:00

I truly believe that you shouldn't feed your baby anything that you wouldn't eat yourself. So, when we started Addison on rice cereal this past week, I whole heartedly gave it a go. MMMmmmmm...a little bland but not bad. Then I passed it on to Curtis to try. YEAH RIGHT!!! He wouldn't go anywhere near the stuff!! I reassured him that it wasn't a fruit or a vegetable. But it definitely was a no go.
So far Addison hasn't picked up her daddy's eating habits and had a lot of fun trying it. She likes to put the spoon in her mouth by herself and she is finding that playing with it is the best part!! She is slowly getting used to the taste and texture and eats more and more each day.
Tomorrow we move on to Barley cereal. I'm not sure I am as excited about trying this one but I am sure our little adventurer will "eat it up"!!

UPDATE!!

2007-06-04T18:56:00.000-04:00

Well, Addison went in for her four month shots today and took them like a trooper. Although, I did pump her up with baby drugs beforehand...
The doctor commented that Addie was "long and slender". Not really sure where she gets that from!! She weighed in at 12.9lbs (only 1/2 lb gained) and 25 inches long (up from 23.6). The doctor didn't seem too concerned about the lack of weight gained because Addison is right on target for all her developmental stages. She did however give us the go ahead to start her on solids. That should make for some fun photos!!

Jungle Baby

2007-05-20T21:32:00.000-04:00

Addison just loves her new Jumperoo!! She is too little to touch the floor but she has figured out that if she shakes herself back and forth that she can get the lights and music to go off. It is So FUNNY!! She gets herself going like she is having a little seizure! I think she will have a blast in it once she is finally big enough to reach the floor! Not only has this become one of her favorite places to play but it has also become a popular napping spot. Awww....

Little Sucker!

2007-05-20T21:22:00.000-04:00

I was in the kitchen the other day when I was shocked to hear this strange slurping noise coming from the living room where Addison was sleeping in her car seat. I snuck in to take a look at Addison, where I was shocked to find her enthusiastically sucking her thumb! Now it has become her new favorite play toy. I know everyone has their own opinion on the whole thumb vs. soother controversy. But it is just too cute!!

They Meet At Last!!

2007-05-16T21:41:00.000-04:00

This Friday, Addison was finally able to meet her baby cousin. I can't believe how big Addison looks next to Vanessa! In this picture Addison is 3 1/2 months old and Vanessa is 6 days. It is amazing the difference that only 3 months can make! I can't wait until they can actually start playing together! I am sure that Addison and Vanessa will be the best of friends!

St. Peter's Pals

2007-05-16T21:25:00.000-04:00

During our last visit to Parry Sound, I took Addison to St.Peter's to meet the students that I taught last year. She was a hit!

Is that pike trying to eat little Addison?

WELCOME VANESSA!!

2007-05-07T09:45:00.000-04:00

Well, Addison is finally a big cousin!! Vanessa Ileen made her grand entrance Saturday evening around 10:30, weighing in at 7lbs 14 oz. Vanessa is beautiful! And what a head of hair!
I think Vanessa has a bit of the stubborn Hunter streak in her as Melissa began having contractions Wednesday morning at 6am and they didn't let up for four whole days. She wanted to make sure that her there was no doubt that she was about to make her big debut!!

A Sunday at the Stables

2007-05-01T22:49:00.000-04:00

We took Addison out to Chance Stables this past Sunday to watch her Grandma Darlene ride in a horse show. She absolutely loved meeting Destiny and watching all the horses! Each time one passed by her, she would kick her legs with excitement and give a little squeal. I hope she doesn't get any big ideas of having a pony of her own!!

Latest Stats

2007-04-27T10:22:00.000-04:00

Well, Addison went on Wednesday for more immunizations. The poor girl has to have one to two shots a month until she is six months old. It is horrible!! There is nothing worse than holding down your child while she is screaming and trying to pull away, while a doctor is shoving a needle in her leg!! It makes you feel like mom of the year.
I thought we were going to have a little "chunker" on our hands but at this appointment she weighed 12lbs 3oz and was 23 inches long. I know a couple that had a baby that weighed 12 lbs (poor woman!)! Initially the doctor seemed concerned that she had only gained one pound in a month but after plotting her on the graph she is following right along where she should be.
Addison has discovered that she can blow spit bubbles. It is the funniest thing! I don't know what the attraction is, the funny noise she can make or the big gob of bubbles that she has hanging from her lips. But, she loves it! I have had to start putting bibs on her because she is constantly soaked. We go through at least 3 bibs a day and a couple of outfits.
I think we should have named her River.

VOTE FOR ADDISON!!

2007-04-19T19:51:00.000-04:00

So, this may be a little shameless self promotion. But hey, that never hurt anyone!! We have entered Addison in a photo contest and WE NEED YOUR VOTE!!
Visit the website "www.babystages.ca" and click on "Photo Contest". It will take you to a screen where you will select "Vote for your Favorite Photo" (which will of course be Addison's!) At the bottom of this page you will type in 130321 where it says "Search for Photo". Addison's pic should come up on your screen and then you enter your email address. The first time you vote it will send you an email to confirm your vote. After that you can vote up to once a day and you will not receive any further emails.
It all sounds very complicated but it really isn't.
Addison appreciates your support! So vote, vote, vote!! And spread the word!!

No Little Lady

2007-04-18T17:12:00.000-04:00

Let me tell you! Our baby girl is no little lady. This sweet little package can burp and fart with the best of them. There are times I accuse Curtis of "rumbling" so loud I can hear it in the next room. Only to find out that is my little sweetheart!!
Babies are full of surprises! Addison especially likes to surprise us with the occasional "shart". This is certainly shocking when you are in the middle of a diaper change and she suddenly shoots one across the room!
Ok. This might be gross for some. But, did you know that a baby can simultaneously spit up out of it's mouth and nose at the same time!! THE NOSE!! Who vomits out their nose. Addison does (just once though. I guess I shouldn't be so dramatic). Maybe I'm just the only one in the world who didn't know that babies do this.
I think we are in for a world of surprises!!

Addison's Two Month Top Ten

2007-03-27T21:51:00.000-04:00

In no particular order...

1. Eating
2. "Filling" her diaper
3. Sleeping in with her mommy and daddy on Saturday mornings
4. Watching the Leafs game
5. Her stuffed Zebra
6. Going to band practice
7. When her daddy gets home from work
8. Car rides
9. When tummy time is over and she gets to lie on her back
10. "Talking" and laughing with anyone who will talk back

Sunday Slumbers

2007-03-21T18:53:00.000-04:00

Irish Eyes...

2007-03-18T19:56:00.000-04:00

Happy Belated St. Patty's Day!!
We celebrated Addison's first St. Patrick's day with her Aunt Melissa and Uncle Scott. While in Barrie she did her Uncle Scott proud by getting kicked out of the "bar". Can you believe it!?!? We went to a "restaurant" for some wings etc. when the waitress came and notified us that, after 3pm, no one under the age of 19 was allowed in. We had to leave. I was blown away. I wasn't about to drink and I certainly wasn't going to be sneaking alcohol to my 7 week old child. Anyways...first time getting kicked out of the bar on her first St. Patty's day. That is one for the books!!
Well, I was at it again. Dressing her up and taking pictures. How can I resist? She is too cute.

The Great Ones

2007-03-15T00:29:00.000-04:00

Curtis, Addison and I are blessed to have such wonderful families. But, I think one of the most exciting things of all is that Addison has been able to meet and spend time with all of her great grandparents!! Each one of them immediately fell head over heals for her!
This weekend we traveled north to Parry Sound and Espanola where Addison was able to meet most of my (Billie's) family take part in celebrating her Great Grandpa Bright's 90th birthday.
What a special time this was. Her Great Grandpa Bright is one of the most wonderfully kind, caring and loving men I have ever met. I am so happy that they were able to spend time together!
She also met her Great Grandma and Grandpa Scale. How much fun! Her Great Grandma Scale has put in orders that her eyes stay blue. Hmmm...we will see what we can do about that!
There is nothing like the love of your family and ours is the best!!

Baby Bear

2007-03-01T21:18:00.000-05:00

Addison's Grandma Darlene has a fun teddy bear that is dressed as a Canadian Mountie. The other day we were eying up the size of the bear and the size of Addison. Hmmm...comparable...
The next thing you know the teddy is being undressed and Addison is looking an awful lot like a Mountie.
It was too fun and she looks way too cute!! Oh boy, my daughter is going to hate me when she's older. I will have a load of embarrassing shots to show the friends.
I love having a baby...

Everyone Knows it All

2007-02-28T22:00:00.000-05:00

It is amazing how much people seem to enjoy sharing their words of wisdom with you when you have a baby. Sometimes they are just the words you need and then other times it is just entertaining!!
Addison and I were in Dollarama today when she decided to get a little fussy. I was absolutely amazed when the five women around me (who didn't know each other) stopped what they were doing and proceeded to discuss what was wrong with my baby. "Oh she is definitely hungry", "She needs a diaper change!", "Oh look. She is so tired", "I think she just needs some attention".
Too funny. I am just pleased to see that my baby girl can bring a community of strangers together.

Our Chunky Monkey...

2007-02-24T17:28:00.000-05:00

Well, we had Addison to the midwives this week and she is growing like a weed! At birth she weighed 7 lbs, then went down to 6 lbs 8 oz then up to 7 lbs 6 oz. Now, she is a whole 9 lbs 1 oz!! Let me tell you, she likes to eat!! She is beginning to develop a double chin and some good thigh rolls. Sounds like the rest of us!!
Actually, she isn't that big. While in the clinic I met 2 other moms with babies under the age of 2 weeks and each of their little ones weighed more than Addison.
I keep thinking about how quickly she is changing. I never want to forget how she is at this very moment.

Baby in Red

2007-02-15T22:51:00.000-05:00

Ok. So I had to post a few more pics of Addie in her Valentines Day dress. This was a gift from her Aunt Kate and Uncle Tim. It's still a bit big but too cute!!

P.S. The first 2 pics are before she "ate lunch" and the last two were taken after her feeding. Can you tell?

Love is in the Air

2007-02-15T22:08:00.000-05:00

Valentine's day was a fun one this year! Addison got all dressed up and went out on her first "lunch date"...with her daddy. "Daddy dates" may be the only ones she experiences in her lifetime if Curtis has anything to say about it. Lunch at Ajax high school was a whole lot of fun for this little girl. Actually, I don't think she even woke up. But, everyone loved seeing her. Our day was topped off by having some family photos taken (which we will post when we get them) and a wonderful meal from a fine dining restaurant known by the name of "Wendy's". Oh yeah. We don't need fine china and silver for romance!!

More Firsts

2007-02-11T20:22:00.000-05:00

So, I didn't want to make the post too big but, I have to continue because Addison had more exciting firsts yesterday. She had her first trip to WalMart!! Oh, come on. That is an exciting first!! She was so thrilled she slept through the whole thing. However, I didn't take
any pics of this one.
I did however, take some of her first time in her swing. The first go only lasted a few minutes. But, she is enjoying it much more now and it is a great way for her to get some variety in her day.
The most exciting first of the day was ADDISON'S FIRST BATH!!
I thought this was suppose to be a beautiful, relaxing, bonding experience. Honestly, it was just a little stressful. Not so much for her but for us. Is the water too hot? Too cold? Do we have everything? Am I holding her right? Don't let her slip. Is everything clean?
Curt was doing a great job of the bathing and I was fantastic as the photographer. Until...SHE POOPED IN THE TUB!! NOW WHAT!?!?! That is when the freak out began!! Well, needless to say, we all survived the ordeal. We definitely aren't ready to try it again tonight. But, maybe tomorrow.

So Many Firsts

2007-02-11T20:08:00.000-05:00

Wow! It is amazing to think about all the things that happen in our lives that become routine, mundane, every day events. At some point in time we did all these things for the "first time". It has been quite fun to experience all these things with Addison as her "firsts". Yesterday was a day of many firsts for her.
We went for our first family walk yesterday. Addison's first walk outside EVER!! It was great! Of course we had to pause for some video and photos. Curtis was largely in charge of pushing the stroller and I of taking pics. When I asked if he would take one of me pushing Addison he replied with "Yeah. But just pretend you're pushing her." I really don't think he wanted to give up pushing the stroller. Apparently that is his "job". I guess "walking" pictures aren't that exciting since you can't really see the baby. So I included one of how bundled up she was. Big thanks to all the "Aunts" who gave us the fantastic stroller and the cuddly bag. We love them!!

Love At First Sight

2007-02-03T12:15:00.000-05:00

Just a little update to let everyone know how things are going. Addison is such a blessing and has enriched our lives more than words can even express. I have never really been one to believe in love at first sight. But, she is a true example of that. We have loved her since the first moment we laid eyes on her and that love grows each time I see her.
Yesterday was Addison's actual due date. I can't even imagine still being pregnant.
Addison was born at 7 lbs and when weighed this week she had gone down to 6 lbs 8oz. I guess that they can lose up to 10% of their birth weight. But, the midwife didn't want to risk her losing any more. So, we had to go to 2 hour feedings (all day and night!!). Well, I think I did nothing but feed the girl for three days straight. It was feed, change the diaper, grab a quick bite to eat and start all over again. Mmmmm...the joys of being a mommy. Well, she got weighed again on Thursday and had gone up to 6 lbs 12oz. WHEW!! We were allowed to go back to three hour feedings and demand at night. Mucho Bueno!! I can actually sleep a little!!
I don't want to push my luck. But, so far things have been fantastic!! She is calm and content. I think it is because she knows she just fits into our lives perfectly.

Sleeping Beauty

2007-01-31T21:12:00.000-05:00

Toad Tuesday

2007-01-31T21:05:00.000-05:00

It is hard to believe that Addison is now 1 week old! Tuesday was our first day all on our own and we had a fun little photo shoot. Well, I had fun. I think she just tolerated it for my sake. Grandma Donna bought her the toad and since she had a onesie to match, I couldn't resist. Poor girl.

GO LEAFS GO!!

2007-01-30T15:08:00.000-05:00

Ok. So maybe they aren't the top team in the league but, we can't let our support waiver!! Addison appears to be a number one fan at only four days old!! Cup this year? Hmmmm...

A Family Matter

2007-01-29T14:50:00.000-05:00

Well, Addison is now almost 6 days old. Wow! I can't believe it has almost been a whole week. And what a week it has been. We have had a whirlwind of activity around here as family and friends have stopped in to show their love and support.

I think we are pretty close to having introduced her to almost all of our family, with the exception of those who live up North. But, hopefully it won't be too long before we can visit with them as well. We have loved all the wonderful gifts, cards, food and most importantly the overwhelming show of love and support. Check out some of the adorable shots with the family. Love you all!!

A Mommy's Moment

2007-01-26T11:50:00.000-05:00

Well...I don't even know where to start. The past few days have been an amazing whirlwind of activity. As you have all heard by now, after several days of being known as "little girl" and "Baby Girl Hunter", we have finally named our little bundle Addison Margaret Grace Hunter. I know it seems a little long for such a little person. But, we love it. Addision is a name that just seemed to suit her. Margaret and Grace are after our mother's mothers. We felt that since the new grandmas played such a strong and integral role in the happy healthy delivery of our little girl that we wanted to honour the strong women that brought them into the world.
The labour and delivery went so smooth (except for about the last ten minutes, you moms know what 10 I am talking about!). I couldn't have asked for a better birthing experience and I totally contribute it to Curtis being such a solid rock and our fantastic midwives. I am sure I will share more about the whole story as I get to speak with each of you in person. Actually, it went so well that Addison was born at 6:36 om and we were headed home by 10:30 pm. Yep, the same day. It was indescribable to be driving home with a little life that was only four hours old. But, since then she has been fantastic. We have been working at getting her on a feeding schedule and that has been going very well so far.
We have been discovering a couple of nicknames that seem to suit her already. "Sqeaker", because she makes these tiny little sqeaking sounds to just let everyone know that there is something that she is needing. but, let me tell you, if you don't react soon enough...that squeak becomes a full out screech. And, people seem to have taken to calling her "peanut". I think it is because she is just SO TINY!! Born at only 7 lbs, even her newborn outfits and diapers seem to be roomy. I am sure that will quicly change.
We will try to keep everyone up to date on her growth and progress. Thank you to everyone who has shown us such tremendous love and support. We have loved all the wonderful phone calls, gifts, cards and visits. We love you all!!

2007-01-25T20:56:00.000-05:00

a few more pics from our Big Day! We are loving every minute.

The New Addition

2007-01-25T14:58:00.000-05:00

Tuesday January 23, 2007 6:38pm

Addison Margaret Grace Hunter was born 7 pounds even , 20.5 inches in length.