19 Months

Dear Gwendolyn Rebecca,
You are 19 months old! Which means all of my emails regarding what to expect at your age are saying things like "pushing two years old" and "nearing 2nd birthday." I don't like to fast forward time, so I ignore those statements. You're plain and simple 19 months old and thankfully it seems you're right on track developmentally for all sorts of things that 19 month old's (who are almost two) do and go through. We've got five more months before that day, so I prefer to just say "year and a half." Please don't rush us, time!

Awhile ago there was a commercial running that said, "you will have a child forever, but a baby for just one year." I disagree. You're a walking/talking machine who loves to play pretend and is learning to follow direction. You soak up kisses and hugs and sometimes just need a little extra snuggle time. Babies eat and sleep and poop a lot and you do all of those things too. Although, you don't need to be burped anymore, and thankfully you sleep through the time (most of the time). I can see where they're coming from, but no matter your age, you'll always be our baby girl.

You are officially weaned. I was dreading it and surprisingly it went pretty well. Actually, it went great. I had someone (with cow weaning experience of all things) make the suggestion to me to offer it before bed and then skip 2 or 3 nights and then offer again. We eventually made it 3 or 4 nights in between (with morning sessions as well) and by the end of two weeks of that, you weren't all that interested anymore. I was most nervous about how I'd comfort you if you woke up in the middle of the night and couldn't nurse anymore, but  all you need is some sweet singing and rocking (in our old position) and you're pretty content now. We made it 18 months, which had always been in the back of my mind. I think we did well.

You are very attached to your baby dolls. It kind of depends on the day which baby doll you like better, but both are soft and you can carry them around and sleep with them too. You brush their hair, change their diaper, wrap them in a blanket, and give them a bottle (which is your sippy cup.) It's just absolutely amazing to see how you've picked things up that we do for you, and how you have such a natural motherly instinct and tenderness. I do believe a baby stroller will be on your Christmas list. The one and only stroller at music class apparently has "Gwendolyn Only" written on it b/c just yesterday you got a bit upset when another little girl attempted to "steal" it from you. Oh no you didn't, you said to her. We had to have a little talk and go apologize. We didn't have any issues after that.

But we can't forget about your other stuffed animals, who you love almost as much as baby doll. Just like your mommy, you're a lover of all things cute and fluffy. If only daddy didn't have cat allergies....

You love to read. Sometimes you read books to yourself or to your baby doll, which is adorable. We read books before nap time and bed time and sometimes in between. You also love story time at the library too, which is our Wednesday morning activity.

You know what a lion, monkey, duck, puppy, cat, horse, bear, and snake all say. We're working on elephant and fish. Your monkey impersonation is the best though, and I was so excited when I found the perfect monkey Halloween costume for $8. Daddy thinks it needs a pink bow.

I love seeing your reaction when you walk into Miss Kathy's and see all of your friends. They run over to you and give you hugs and then you run to Kathy and sit on her lap. It's so precious. It's been working really well for us - you love being there and I can get a lot of work done at home. I miss you like crazy though when we're apart - I don't know how I ever survived 3 full days! Seems a bit silly of me, doesn't it? (Don't answer that.)

It pains me to write this, but you're a picky eater. We went through a phase of making you your own separate meal, but after some encouraging from Miss Kathy, we decided we couldn't allow that to continue. It's tough though. I'd say sleeping and eating habits have been the hardest part about being a new parent. Those are just two tough areas to figure out and be consistent about. What is frustrating is knowing that if you would just try it, you'd probably like it! We'll keep at it though and like all the articles say, if we serve it to you enough, then you have tried a few new things eventually. You finally tried oatmeal the other morning (and liked it!) only b/c I gave it to you in your own bowl and with your own spoon. We've tried that with other meals at dinner time though, and you still refuse. There have been quite a few nights you've gone to bed  having barely eaten anything. Hopefully you change your ways. Soon. You're missing out big time on mac-n-cheese, girl! You're still a lover of all fruit though, so that's a plus. Eggs, cottage cheese, cheese slices, hot dogs, chicken nuggets, yogurt, raisins, pancakes, and toast are all safe. Of course you love crackers, granola bars, and cereal as well but we try to limit the carbs and sugar.

You are well-behaved. You listen well to instruction although you definitely test the limits here and there. Like this morning when trying to put your coat on, our conversation when something like this...

"Gwendolyn, please put your coat on." 

"No."

"Gwendolyn, please put your coat on."

"No."

"Gwendolyn, do you want to go outside to go to Miss Kathy's? Then you need to put your coat on."

Which did the trick. I think you just want to see what you can get away with, which like I mentioned in the very beginning means you're right on track as that seems to be the case with a lot of 19 month old's. You definitely know when you should not be doing something, and respond fairly quickly when you know daddy and mommy mean business. You follow direction well and help us when we pick up toys. You've even slid your grocery basket back under the ottoman without our asking, which is hilarious and adorable that you know where it goes. When you put your toothbrush away, you also close the drawer. And you put your shoes back on the mat instead of just leaving them on the stairs. Yay! These little things are so helpful, and you're already contributing to this family. Let me say that you don't listen 100% of the time, but you make us so proud with the little things that you do so well already.

I love how you stand totally relaxed with your belly out. And at other times, with one leg out, bent and toe pointed at the ground. You crack us up.

You know where your eyes, head, ears, mouth, teeth, nose, cheeks, hands, and toes all are. We're currently working on elbows.

You easily have 20+ words and amazingly, we can understand a lot of what you say. My favorites are "I see you" and "I don't know."

You were consistently easy to put down at night and sleeping through the night until about a week and a half ago. You suddenly started not wanting to be separated from us and screaming. And screaming. We did a few nights of co-sleeping just to survive and then screwed our heads back on straight and realized that was not the answer for long-term success. We had a couple difficult nights of crying for an hour or longer and then eventually you fell asleep. We've tried not to go in and pick you up if you wake up in the middle of night, which is so sad b/c you hug us as we lean against your crib and have almost fallen asleep standing up a few times not wanting to let us go. Last night was back to our old ways and you only cried for a few minutes before sleeping until 7 am. I just don't know what the deal has been? Breaks our hearts to hear you like that when you're sooooo tired and just need to close your pretty eyes and go to sleep. I will admit I secretly love co-sleeping, but I know that's not a habit we want to start. During our 3 nights of sleep-overs, you would reach around and gently touch my face. Randomly lean over and kiss me and then smile at me only 3 inches from my face. Play with my hair. And just in general, try to be as.close.as.possible. Loved it. But I learned it is difficult to sleep well with a little person all up in your business all night. Anyway, hopefully the better sleeping continues tonight and tomorrow and beyond. We know you have it in you, girl! On a normal day though, you're in bed between 8 and 8:30 and up around 7:15. You typically take a nap around 1:00 and sleep for anywhere from one to two and a half (sometimes longer) hours.

You still love collecting things. I couldn't find your sippy anywhere this morning. I kept asking you, "Gwendolyn, where is your pink sippy?" And you'd follow me through every room upstairs and say, "I don't know." Until AH HAH! in the little compartment of your cho-cho train. You love hiding things and finding new spots for things. I was surprised you didn't know exactly where it was when I asked you b/c in the past you've been able to help us find lost sippy cups and cell phones.

You love Elmo. Love, love, love Elmo.

Your hair is long enough to finally have bed-head. Makes my day.

We had your 18 month check-up back on September 28th and your stats were:

Height: 33" and 85%

Weight: 24 lbs, 13 oz and 50%

Head: 19" and 90%

It seems you're not so tall and skinny anymore and meeting more in the middle. Some people have commented that you seem to be "filling out more" *smile. You're wearing size 4 diapers, 18-24 month clothes, and size 5 shoes. 

I told daddy last month that I think I constantly need an 18 month old in my life b/c I absolutely adore this stage. You're funny, smart, entertaining, sweet, loving, can play on your own but still love to be held. You like to help out and say the cutest things and understand so much and can really tell us what you want/need. I just love it! And I love you so much there are no words to fully express the depths. I remember when you turned one week old and I was sobbing and I just didn't want you to get big. Well, I'm glad you got big. I'm glad you didn't listen to me and you kept growing and learning and changing b/c you are a JOY and while I loved you at a week old, I love you 100 times as much as a 19 month old. I didn't even know that was possible, but my heart is overflowing.

We love you! And we always will.

Love,

 Mommy

Thank you Jesus for entrusting Gwendolyn to us for the time that you see fit. Help us raise her well.

Movie Friday

Gwendolyn says "I see you" clear as day. It's hilarious and I love the sound of her little voice. She'll lay on the floor and look under the ottoman at your feet and suddenly you'll hear, "I see you!" Squish. And she is definitely a physical touch person who needs to refill her love tank often. She's constantly going off and then coming back to quickly hug me or wanting to be held briefly and then down she goes again. Or putting her hand on my leg if we're both sitting on the stairs putting our shoes on. I wouldn't have her any other way, but it definitely makes videotaping difficult when she's always right up in my business *smile.

I hope you enjoy anyway.

Happy Friday.

Love, us.

September in pictures

Yay! As promised, this post is done before Halloween *smile. September was a fabulous month. In addition to turning 30, we enjoyed some football, great weather, and some sweet moments with our 18 month old.

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Goooo CLONES! 

ISU vs. Iowa game, September 8th

As you probably know, we pulled off a win, but Gwendolyn was more interested in all of the fabulous food. She's definitely my daughter.

Our friends Nicole and Brooke!

Our first time at the Afton Apple Orchard. She was so cautious going down this slide and then it turned out to be the slowest slide in the whole world. Unless you're an adult going down it and then it's very fast and will make you giggle.

Their petting zoo was pretty fun too.

Yay for mommy/daughter dates!

Aunt Becca picked her up her rain coat and boots. 

For next year.

Grandma and Grandpa Sinclair always seem to come prepared with large and small treats and BOY! was this new car and trailer a fun surprise! In and out and in and out she goes...she's been taking many trips to Target but it seems she always comes back empty handed.

Jacob and Nathan in their own vehicles.

(Can we talk about how fun it is to be a kid?!)

She's mastered the delayed bedtime. Here she is clapping after watching "So You Think You Can Dance."

And yes, she DOES think she can dance. She's got unreal moves.

Like daddy. Like daughter.

Time for a bike ride! Everyone must wear their helmets!

We enjoyed a nice Saturday afternoon picnic and then did some playing on the playground.

No words.

It's not always easy waking up from naps you guys.

 ~ ~ Curls!! ~ ~

Do I dare cut them?!

Could.not.love.her.more.

Eating pizza, which is a big deal since she rarely tries new things.

She often has to be right up next to you.

Dear Grandpa,

My car needs gas. Please come visit again soon.

Love, Gwendolyn

My (awesome/amazing/over the top) 30th birthday

I turned the big 3-0 on September 18th. I just know what you're thinking..."how can she be THIRTY?! I mean, she's so young and fit and barely has any wrinkles!"

I get that alllll the time. (not)

Yes, I am 30 years old. I will never, ever, ever in my life be 20-something again. That's pretty crazy. The last 10 years definitely had it's ups and downs. College was fabulous and an awesome experience, but had it's share of heartache. Finding "the one" and getting married was exciting and being newlyweds buying houses and cars and traveling the world was so much fun. (Ireland...how I miss you.) And then having our first baby and becoming a mother and experiencing the immense joy that is Gwendolyn Rebecca Barntsen - gets me every time! My 20's were a time of growth, change, soul-searching, clinging to God, and some of the hardest and best moments of my entire life. It's bittersweet to say good-bye, but I'm ready to see what's in store for the next 10 years.

I had mentioned to Tom back in March that I thought it'd be fun to spend my 30th birthday with Becca. Well, he didn't forget that and she surprised me with the greatest 30th birthday present ever - HERSELF!

Let me start from the beginning....Tom came home from work and I could immediately tell something was up. He told me he'd been in a car accident (he can be a bit dramatic sometimes. Can't we all.) Turns out he was rear ended (on his way to pick her up from the airport, of all times) and so he was coming inside to grab the camera to go take pictures. I thought nothing of this and immediately wanted to see the damage myself. 

(I've had people ask...no, I didn't know he was videotaping. I knew he had the camera, but I never looked up to see that he was recording my every move.)

You can imagine my SHOCK when I finally realized it was my sister in the TRUNK! It was so great. Took a few seconds to register as I just stared blankly at her. Oh man. So glad we got that moment on camera.

This was Thursday, September 13th so I wasn't even thinking about my birthday at this point. We still had 5 days to go! I still can't believe they both pulled it off and I had no clue. 

Aunt Becca and "Woo-tang" (Becca somehow went from calling her Winnie to Woo to Woo-tang) watching "puppies".

Noodles & Company for my free birthday dinner! Woo was so happy Aunt Becca was in town!

Friday we headed to Stillwater for some shopping, lunch and ice cream sundae's, of course. Gwendolyn loved her first ever cherry. 

And then much to my surprise AGAIN, we rolled into the driveway after our little adventure, I looked down to turn the car off and looked up to see my dad standing right next to my door. My parents had driven up! Which is hilarious since I had JUST said to Becca, "does it make you sad that you can't see mom and dad while you're here? I wish they could be here." Ha!

It's almost too much excitement for me to handle. But it didn't stop there. I knew we were headed to Scott and Nikki's for dinner, but I didn't know that Tom had arranged for our sitter to come over so we could stay out late (11:00!) and have a bonfire - one of my favorite fall activities. It was so nice and relaxing to not have to tend to Gwendolyn (that sounds horrible, but you know how meals go with little ones) and then rush out to get her home for bed.

My dream come true - a power wheel I can ride! I always wanted one as a kid, and Jacob's new 4-wheeler did not disappoint. 

Scott made one of my favorite meals - his fish tacos and then out walks Tom holding an angel food cake with pink frosting and sprinkles.

Angel food cake with pink frosting and sprinkles.

Those are words I said every single year to my Grandma Stauffer when she asked what kind of cake I wanted for my birthday. I about lost it.

Ok....I did lose it.

You have no idea how much this meant to me. My grandma died 15 years ago and for a split second it was like she was back. The cake looked exactly like her's as her frosting is a special recipe and I haven't had it since before she passed away. I knew right away that it was "the frosting" and I could barely keep it together. I was already emotional with all the love being shown to me.

Turns out my mom and Tom worked together to make this happen. It made my day! And was so delicious. 

I finally got to meet baby Lydia too! (Nikki's "other" niece. *smile)

Bonfire time!! So great.

I woke up on Saturday morning to this sign from my dear hubby...

Are you exhausted yet? I was. So much fun and excitement and no time for naps.

What in the world could still be left?!

A day at the spa with my sister, of course! I mean, why not. You only turn 30 once.

And this was the real deal. Massage, facial, nails, hair with lunch included. Are.you.kidding.me?! I have DREAMED about doing this.

Our new haircuts! (Only one of us was brave.)

We came home feeling so refreshed and relaxed. Gwendolyn, on the other hand, was apparently still a little bit sleepy after her afternoon nap...good thing Aunt Becca had time to snuggle.

That night, Becca stayed home with Gwendolyn so Tom and I could go out for dinner (best mac-n-cheese EVER) and go to a movie (The Words.) Tom was iffy about the movie given the bad reviews, but he sacrificed for me. It had an interesting story line, but was definitely a renter.

Walking to the park with Aunt Becca.

Becca left on Monday, and we were sad to see her go but so thankful we could spend so much time together. At this point, I didn't care one bit about my actual birthday on Tuesday - I had been spoiled enough.

But then the doorbell rings and it's Nikki, Jacob and Nathan with chai tea and monkey bread from Caribou! God timed their arrival perfectly as I had just taken a phone call from Natalie who told me that Tom had passed out on the bus (he didn't have a cell phone) and had been taken by ambulance to a hospital. I immediately thought that if it had been bad enough to call an ambulance then there was something very wrong, so I was a bit frantic when they arrived. Nikki helped calm me down and after a few phone calls, we found Tom at St. Joe's Hospital. He was totally fine, praise Jesus. Gwendolyn and I went and picked him up a bit later and he spent the rest of the afternoon resting. It turned out to be an pretty eventful day after all!

Two still in pj's - cracks me up. I love these three.

I love yearly pics, so of course I needed one with my Scoots on my actual birthday like we had taken last year. Daddy was napping so we struggled just a bit...

Are we done yet?!

Finally daddy helped us out later that night.

She LOVED (I did too) the hilarious video John and Trisha made me and posted on Facebook. We watched it many, many times.

Sophie also got in on the birthday fun and surprised me the following Sunday with a balloon, lunch, gifts, and a card! I hadn't seen her in over a year, and she was in town with her mom for a weekend girls trip. We caught up quickly in an hour, and then they were off to visit one more friend before heading back down to Iowa. She currently lives in Washington, D.C. so it was totally random and out of the blue and awesome!

I'd say that was quite the birthday celebration. I felt so loved and thankful. Thanks to everyone who made it such a special weekend - it was a birthday I'll never forget! Love you all!

And Tom...you are amazing. You continue to outdo yourself and the way you lavish me with love and consideration is incredible. Thanks for all of your attention to the tiny details and going to so much effort. I'm so blessed to be your best friend and wife! I love you!