It's official! We are homeowners!
With the help of family and friends, we moved into our new home on December 23, after one of the most stressful weeks either of us has ever had. The mortgage was held up a week due to an unresolved identity theft issue. That same week, Bub contracted roseola, and was about as sick as we'd ever seen him. This co-occurred with his pediatrician's annual holiday vacation. To say the least, we were stressed (despite the smiles we're donning in the photos, Jen had actually just been vomited on, and I was holding a baby with 103 degree fever).
Thankfully, we were surrounded by good people who helped us through. Aunt Beast was actually visiting from China, and happened to be staying with us that specific week. Having another set of hands on deck was priceless. It was also wonderful quality time, as we were pretty much housebound.
Christmas and Hannukah came and went with little notice. We did "trim our tree" (which, as a Jew, I'll have you know means "decorate our tree", not prune it), host Christmas dinner, and display the menorrah. Other than that, and a little eggnog in our coffee, the family traditions will have to begin next year. We both are chockfull of fun ideas we can't wait to implement, but we figured we should a) have more than 2 days to prepare for said ideas and b) have a child who can participate. By next year, I'm sure Bub will be far more aware of the holiday season!
Speaking of far more aware, our little man's receptive language has really taken off! He understands most directives, and, if he's feeling amenable, will even respond to requests like "Owen, can I have a kiss?" (big, wet, sloppy, open-mouthed baby kisses!!!) or "Owen, can you point to Ashby dog?" or "Put your head down, please". He's also begun signing. He will sign "more", "all done", and "milk". It's so nice to be able to communicate with him in this new way! He's beginning to look and act more and more like a little boy. He isn't walking yet, but it's not too far off. While I sometimes get sad at how quickly he's growing up, it's amazing that each stage truly is more exciting than the last.
Oh, and we have a new addition! Cowboy joined our family on Christmas Eve. He's a lover of a cat, and is only too happy to take up residence on your lap if ever you have a free moment. He's definitely not too comfortable with Ashby or Owen yet, but if you're over the age of 10 and have 2 legs, he's all over you.
With a new home, a (now) healthy and happy baby boy (don't you dare call him a toddler), the best dog in the world, a sweet kitty, and the love of my life, I'm pretty sure 2012 is going to be full of wonderment and joy! The Hopping-Winn clan wishes all of our friends and family a VERY happy New Year, and wishes only the best for you! Oh, and if you happen to be in the area, we'd love to show you around the new house! :)
