The Ochs Family

A lost battle

2010-02-15T20:20:00.003-06:00

Cora is the queen of fighting her naps. Really, I think she would be completely thrilled with the option to never take naps or go to bed at night. Today she fought her nap with all her might, so I brought her downstairs and finished making my cookies. I was in the kitchen for 10 minutes when I decided to check on her. This is what I found :)

Finally!

2010-01-26T20:18:00.005-06:00

I have officially committed to start blogging again. I know it has been a very long time, and I have a lot to update. It very well may take me a week or 2 to get all my pics uploaded. Here are a few pictures in the meantime.

Cora and Tyler playing the Wii

A good mommy always feeds and reads to her babies

Getting ready for some sledding!

Cora has to have at least 3 babies with her at all times

Hammy

2009-05-07T15:40:00.000-05:00

Cora has decided that she loves the camera. She puts on a production whenever I turn it on. I just wanted to get some pics in her cute outfit the other day, but these are what she gave me. Such a ham! I couldn't believe how big she looks when I uploaded them to my computer...not a little bambino anymore. Oh...please disregard the giant bruise on her forehead - she had a collision with the cocktail table a few days ago.

Walking the dog

2009-05-06T09:49:00.003-05:00

Cora has an obsession with Lily. She hears her eating and says "dau dau", hears her barking and says "dau dau", tries to throw the ball to her, pets her, hugs her and most recently, started trying to put her leash on her. We appeased her wishes the other day and this was the result. Poor Lily...bean just kept saying "dau dau" while walking to different parts of the room trying to "walk" her. Lily is such a good dog :)

Good Morning

2009-04-26T21:10:00.004-05:00

This is how I get to start my day :) Cora loves her new chair. She comes downstairs every morning, and piles her babies, moo cow and bunny in the chair with her to watch a few minutes of sprout while mommy makes her coffee. I am constantly amazed at how fast she is turning into a "big" girl, as the baby traits fade away. Seriously, I know I am her mom, but how could you resist this face :)

Happy Birthday Cora Bean! (I know, I am way behind!)

2009-04-23T20:00:00.000-05:00

I can't believe a whole year has gone by! April 11, 2008 enriched my life beyond words the moment the doctor announced we had a little girl. Cora Genevieve, Cora Gen, Cora Bean, sassy pants or peanutty - whatever you would like to call her, has rocked my world for the past year, and I look forward to watching her grow into a young lady. Yes, I know that between her daddy and big brothers she will have lots of rambunctious moments, but I can tell in the way she loves her babies and daintily picks up her food, she will be a sweet little girl. I had high hopes of doing all kinds of first birthday blogging, but our week was beyond crazy. So, I am nixing all the birth story and sentimental posts, and jumping right into the big day. Cora's party was absolutely fantastic! We are so grateful for such wonderful family and friends - near and far. She was blessed with so many thoughtful gifts, and will have plenty to keep her entertained for a very long time. I was shocked she did so well! No nap from 7a until 4p usually makes for a cranky Cora, but she must have known it was her day and turned the charm on the moment people walked in the door. Thank you to everyone who shared in Cora's special day, whether in person or spirit, we are grateful to have you in our life.

sans the tutu - such a bean pole

checking out Clive
sharing grass

Cora with Dani, Aunt Maddie & Natalie

Cowgirl Cow Print Cake

Cora hugging Miss Lily

Taylor showing ladybug a new present

Cora was more interested in her baby than presents

Ah...the stroller - we take the stroller everywhere

Had to have the baby in the high chair for cake

mmm...and yes, baby enjoyed icing too

Mommy & the birthday girl

Cora and great grandma Cora

Baby and Moo Cow - her new favorites

A new ball! (she loves to throw balls)

Easter 2009

2009-04-15T22:05:00.006-05:00

I am still working on the birthday post, so I thought I would share a few Easter photos while you wait. Easter weekend was huge this year with Jason's Baptism, Cora's birthday and the actual Easter holiday. Since Jason was baptized at the Easter Vigil, we decided to have a very laid back Easter morning, followed by brunch at Cora's great aunt Laurie's and a late lunch at great grandma Bettie's house. My grandmother (whom Cora is named after) made me several smocked dresses when I was a baby, and we were so excited that sassy pants fit perfectly in my toddler Easter dress that she had made. Cora loved her Easter basket, which was pretty basic after all the spoiling on Saturday, and she lugs her new bunny everywhere. She even got to hunt for goldfish filled eggs at Laurie's house. All in all the Lord blessed us with a wonderful weekend with family and friends!

Checking out the loot

Very happy with her new presents

Her favorite new activity - piling all of her stuff her the new chair

Sweet Easter dress....have to keep the toothbrush in hand (good habit I guess)

terrorizing Maggie

shake shake shake

sweet face

hiding with a few eggs :)

mmmm....I like this surprise!

no more goldfish :(
All eyes on Cora

Countdown To One!

2009-04-06T15:15:00.007-05:00

I can't believe we are inside the 7 day countdown to Cora's 1st birthday! This week has been crazy busy preparing for the big O-N-E, Jason's Baptism and Easter... all with a walker -working on molars. I have so much to post about Cora's first year, but it is going to be slow since I can only blog when she is asleep. Here are some photos from the past 12 months to keep you entertained while I put the posts together.

5 minutes after birth

1 Day Old

3 Months

6 Months

9 Months

5 Days after turning 9 Months she stood for the first time on her own

11 Months 2 Weeks

Hooray!

2009-03-24T22:00:00.000-05:00

Well, it's official....Cora is walking! She has been taking 4 or 5 steps to get to kids/toys/lily on a daily basis, but today was the first day of real walking. Of course, I took the video cam out of my diaper bag and we weren't at home when she started, but I will post a video as soon as possible (she wouldn't cooperate once we were home).

However, here is a video of our brave little climber - please excuse the quality as I was trying to prevent an injury....oh, and she did actually make it in the stroller the second time around...I think she might be trying to copy her friend Madeline in TX.

The boy next door

2009-03-22T21:07:00.001-05:00

Charlie, our neighbor, turned 2 on St. Patty's day. He was so sweet to bring some birthday shamrock cookies and green/white balloons to Cora. They really play well together, but this took the cake! I am starting to think we may have to worry when these playmates get into high school! Cora pushed Charlie around the living room trying to get his balloons, climbing all over him and putting her fingers in his mouth. Charlie was so well natured - he just stood there and was so gentle with our little taz. Cora actually started crying when he left, and we had to go give kisses at the door to appease sassy pants. Oh my, are we in for it when she gets older!

Sweet Charlie

Fingers in the mouth
Funny Girl

My Fave - she is "talking" to him

Trying to get the balloons away

New Chair

2009-03-17T09:21:00.003-05:00

Cora's grandma and grandpa got her a new chair for our patio...and, she absolutely loves it! This way she can sit outside with us like a big girl and enjoy the summer nights. Right now she loves to pile all her babies and animals in the chair...then she tries to climb up with them - too cute! Here is a video of her showing off her big girl kicking skills in the new chair. (as a side note - please excuse my voice...it is so high pitched in this video - lol)

Fun Day Outside!

2009-03-13T22:23:00.000-05:00

The weather finally started to warm up enough to have some play time outside. Cora loves...loves playing outside! She stands at the screen banging and yelling at the kids riding up and down the street on their scooters, hoping that I will let her crawl through the grass to participate in all the fun activities. So, last week we spent half of our days either on the back porch, in the front yard or cruising in the jog stroller. Here are some photos of Cora enjoying the beautiful weather.

The spring air makes for great naps in the stroller

really trying to convince me to let her take her giraffe outside
Oh, how I love this face

trying to give me a piece of dirt, or a stick

Dancing

2009-03-09T22:43:00.003-05:00

I am attempting to upload a video to our blog for the first time!
This is a glimpse of what Cora looks like when she is dancing :) - although, I am sure there will be more to come once sassy pants warms up to the video cam and throws her hands and head into motion - what a riot! Oh, and notice how she faked us out cruising to the edge of the drawer...such a sass! Now that she took 2 steps, she is going to keep us on the edge of our seats for more walking :)

So marks the beginning of Lent...

2009-02-25T20:10:00.003-06:00

Tonight Cora and I attended mass to celebrate Ash Wednesday, and the beginning of Lent. Cora was so darn cute with her ashes, that I just had to share with everyone! Oh, and as a side note: I think Cora is already into the boys :) - we sat in the cry room with a 2 year old boy (yes, an older boy), and Cora followed him around the entire mass...not to mention that when he gave her a hug, she bounced up and down and bobbed her head yes, as if to say she wanted another hug. Ha! I was trying so hard to focus, but they were so cute together :)

Smiling for the camera (I think she knew she was cute)

Eating is hard work!

2009-02-05T18:51:00.002-06:00

Cora was unable to finish her dinner tonight...and, of course I had to get a cute pic for the blog!

Snow Baby

2009-02-01T22:26:00.004-06:00

We finally managed to get a decent snow last week! Since Jason was home, we decided to take Cora down to the park for her first sledding experience. She seemed to like it...as long as she wasn't on the sled by herself - so naturally mommy had to go down the hill with her..

Trying to get some sled practice in before we went in the snow

Our little snow bunny
Mommy and Cora on our first trip down the hill

Playing in the snow

Loving the snow (until she face planted :) )

Sweet face

Mini Jason

Yay for sledding!

Big Girl Bath

2009-01-27T20:42:00.004-06:00

Tonight was Cora's first bath in the the big girl tub! Of course I had to celebrate with lots of pictures.

Pre bath dirty girl...but, oh so sweet

I just had to get a pic of the bedhead

This has to be my fave photo!

mmm....yummy sheep!

Love at first sight...and a little playtime

2009-01-25T22:22:00.006-06:00

Cora loves Gymboree. From the moment we hit the mat, she is on the go - exploring, climbing, crawling, cruising...every mobile adjective you can think of - aside from walking! Thursday was like any other day; we had a yummy lunch with our Gymboree moms and babies, and then hit up Gymboree for some much needed playtime. However, this time when we made our way over to the play mat, Cora seemed to notice Gymbo the clown for the very first time....okay - maybe not for the very first time over the course of 6 months, but her face definitely lit up this time. Cora had no desire to climb or explore; actually, every time I took her to the play on the gym equipment, she would make her way back to Gymbo; kissing and hugging him. The other moms thought this was hilarious...I guess I can only be thankful that she doesn't have a fear of clowns. However, I will not be purchasing this Gymbo, as it kinda creeps me out. I am adding in a few other shots from the previous Gymboree trip, as it has been awhile that I have posted any Play & Learn pics.

Poor Brynn can't show Gymbo any affection

Sweet hugs for Gymbo

Can I take him with me?

Having a "conversation" with Gymbo

Cora insisted on sitting with Miss Jessica and Gymbo for class

awww

Sweet Brynn

Bubbles for everyone

My little teenager
Already dunking...daddy would be proud

I think she looks so cute when standing like a big girl

No task is too hard

All by my self

2009-01-23T08:14:00.003-06:00

Cora has been keeping secrets from me...or maybe I just haven't pushed my kid to her full potential. However, I can count on gamma Vicky to get Cora to try new adventurous activities. My mom came over the other night to play with Cora, and while I was in the kitchen she was having Cora practice her balance. Low and behold the photograph below will show you what I found when I walked in and saw my sweet pea. She isn't consistent as of yet, but as with anything with Cora, it will only be a matter of time :).

Fun day with bff Lily

2009-01-16T17:35:00.004-06:00

Our friends Kali and Lily joined us for lunch today & a little play time for the girlies. Cora had a great time showing Lily all of her toys and the girls played so well together. They apparently had a lot to talk about as well; with their fair share of dadadas, aahs and plenty of babble. Kali and I had a wonderful time watching them interact; Lily is such a sweet, laid back baby and well, you all know Miss Cora and her nonstop personality. Cora was really bummed when Lily had to leave and insisted on staying right by her car seat as she was bundled up. Unfortunately, I couldn't get any really great shots, as neither one of them would look at the camera when I wanted them too! Thanks girls for a terrific afternoon!

Lily enjoyed the gymboree drum...who doesn't like making lots of noise?

Of course sassy pants got mad when I took her from a toy (diaper bag) and made her take a pic...see how concerned Lily is with Cora's unhappiness?

2 sweet girls.

Cora didn't want Lily to leave :)

Why do we need toys?

2009-01-13T20:51:00.003-06:00

Cora never ceases to make me smile. I catch her doing the cutest things everyday, and I have been lucky enough to get some of them on film. Her latest activity is climbing in baskets, boxes or even the place she hates the most...her car seat. Apparently the car seat is a fun place to play as long as we aren't driving! Our little string bean is so tall; she can climb right into all her fun places without even tipping them towards her first...only problem is she thinks she can just climb right out of them the same way, which usually results in a crash and burn. The best part is the looks she gives me when I am taking her picture. I don't have many to share, but her expressions are priceless. Oh and I had to add one of the stairs, as we make several trips up them each day. She makes a beeline for them every chance she gets!

Favorite toy

I haven't quite figured out this eyebrow...I think it's "hey, how u doin?"

My favorite smirky face...Smirky McSmirk

Silly Cora...socks are for feet

2009-01-05T21:45:00.002-06:00

Cora is enamored with putting things in her mouth. Whether it is paper, cardboard or lint from our area rug, anything is better than real food. Yet, when I thought she couldn't find anything else...she discovered socks are yummy too. Cora loves to "help" with the laundry, which usually consists of destroying the folded clothes or climbing in the laundry basket. Well, last night she didn't want to "help"...she picked up a clean sock, stuck it in her mouth and proceeded to crawl around and play while behaving like a little puppy. This is not very ladylike behavior, but I have to admit it is pretty darn cute. (and yes it is a clean sock!)

A Very Merry Christmas

2008-12-27T22:56:00.006-06:00

Joy, peace, love and gratitude are the 4 words that filled my heart this Christmas. Life is so much more complete with a child in our home and her love in our hearts. We are so thankful for our wonderful family and friends, and their generosity this holiday season. Cora did well as we toted her from house to house and she ate a ton of food! Our house is definitely full of toys now...most of which make lots of noise. Cora couldn't be happier as she crawls from toy to toy and turns them all on! :) Happy Holidays to everyone and a safe New Year!

We spent Christmas Eve with grandma Bettie (my dad's side) and Cora was overwhelmed with kisses from her cousin Henry (6.5 months) - she looks so thrilled :)

Hurry...Run from the kisses :)

Unwrapping her new activity table...so intense

Forget the present; paper is much tastier!

Trying out the new activity table
Her new wave drum (no batteries required - yes!)

Checking out her stocking goodies!

Petting her new pony (thanks grandma & grandpa) :)

Telling us how much she loves the pony!

Riding her pony...yay!

We headed to my parents house for Christmas Day fun, food and family! (and enough presents for Cora to fill our car!)

Cora checking out the loot at grandma & grandpa's

So cute...and check out her load of toys - sheesh!

So excited :)

Apparently the best part about Christmas - the boxes!

She loves her new walk n ride bike!

Let me open one present....please!

2008-12-20T22:15:00.004-06:00

Jason decided it would be fun to put a few wrapped presents under the tree to see how Cora would react. Well, up until today Cora had very little interest in the tree, lights and pretty much anything having to do with Christmas. Ha!...not anymore :). She spent a good portion of the afternoon sitting under the tree...trying to unplug it, pull off the lights (which she successfully accomplished one time), roll in the skirt and unwrap the presents. I was too busy preventing her from eating the light bulbs and playing with the extension cords to get great photos, but I did manage to get some cute shots of her working so hard to open the presents. She was concentrating so hard...nothing would break her intense determination to open one of the packages. I think we won't be putting any more presents under the tree until Christmas Eve... ;)

Playing with the lights

Playing with the present

Trying hard to unwrap the present

Still trying...but, realized she was caught

Such a mischievous grin!

Whatcha doin?

2008-12-18T21:29:00.004-06:00

Well...I haven't been a very loyal blogger lately. My apologies to all those who love to look at pics of sweet Cora. I promise I will get better, but things have been so crazy with the holidays, travel, appointments and sickness, that by the time I sit down to blog I can't think of anything to write. I know, soooo unlike me not to talk...ha! Since I didn't blog about Cora turning 8 months, I figured I would do it a week later. ;)

Cora turned 8 months on December 11th....time is flying! Here is what the little monkey has been up to (or should I say in to) :)

She is cruising like crazy, climbing the stairs and climbing Lily (poor Lily)

Peek a boo has become one of her favorite games - she crouches down on the other side of the cocktail so you can just see her fingers (although I don't think she realizes I can see her fingers :)) and when you say "where's Cora" she pops up and smacks the table with her hands and does her little huffing through the nose bit.

Dadadada is about the only thing she is babbling, but that is nonstop

She loves to give zerberts! Whether it is your cheek, arm, belly or shoulder...she is hysterical if she can create that noise

Food isn't going very well...she only likes mashed potatoes, avocado, sweet potatoes (not baby food) and applesauce. She shakes her head and refuses to open her mouth with just about everything else

She is persistent and bossy! We are working on "no touch", but she just smiles and tries again. When I move her she lays on the floor and throws a nice screaming fit (mommy has to figure that one out still!)

She loves to make noise. Banging toys on toys, pots, spoons, maracas....well you name it, if noise can be made she is game.

Separation and stranger anxiety are in full swing right now.

She gets all flustered when the cold air hits her face (which I personally love - not to pick on her, but it is so darn cute)

she is working on at least 3 teeth right now - and her cheeks turn the color of cherries when she teethes...so cute

When she gets frustrated she hums through her raspberries...so it kinda sounds like a whistling motorboat

She loves to lay on the fireplace and suck on the edge protectors

Okay...I am done. She is so cute I could go on forever and ever, but I will stop...until 9 months :)

Finally!

2008-12-10T10:50:00.007-06:00

I finally feel like blogging now that all 3 of us are over the nasty stomach flu! I don't even know where to begin...I will have to play catch up with all that has been going on! I will keep some of it short, as I know everyone is more anxious to see pics of ladybug.

Thanksgiving week was absolutely wonderful! We flew out to Denver to spend some time with Jason's family, most of whom had never met Cora in person. Tuesday we spent the day with Cora's great grandmother in Eads, a very small (maybe 500 people), but fantastic town 2 hours south of Denver. Her house was filled with everything that a curious baby would love...porcelain figurines, vintage records, unprotected outlets and so much more, but oh how Cora enjoyed herself :). She loved her great grandma smokey and I am pretty sure grandma was smitten with her too! Wednesday we picked up the boys and enjoyed some bummin time around Denver and relaxation at the hotel before turkey day. Thanksgiving was fantastic! We had a nice breakfast and headed into the foothills of the mountains to take our Christmas picture. Afterward, we headed to aunt Renee's for a wealth of yummy food, some football and genuinely wonderful family time. Cora had sweet potatoes, but that is about all the wiggle worm would sit still for without a high chair. Friday we loaded up 2 kids, 2 nephews, a niece, Jason and myself and headed into the mountains for some skiing. Jason and I took turns watching Cora so we could both ski a little bit. Cora is such a mover and shaker that I think I was more worn out from carrying her in my ski boots than actually skiing :). She really enjoyed the snow, but pulling the games out of the cabinet in our condo was a much more entertaining game...trouble to the max! All in all it was a fantastic trip (aside from the plane..ha!) and we can't wait to go back!

Riding the tram at the airport

Big bubba Tyler

Cora and her mommySnow bunny

So cute in her ski bibs :)

Getting into the game cabinet

She will be skiing soon enough!

Help!

4 generations

Cora and Great Grandma

A little holiday football

Hmmm....where can I get into trouble....

Cousin Paige

Aunt Gina, cousin Becca, cousin Page & Cora

Cora & Daddy

Loungin before dinner

My fave photo!

Don't Worry....

2008-12-01T10:18:00.004-06:00

I haven't forgotten to blog :)....
I am so backed up from such a wonderful holiday with family, skiing and Cora's first experience with snow, that it will probably be another day before I can get the blog updated. Check back soon!

Hamming it up in the hotel :)

Cora the Explorer...

2008-11-18T08:09:00.005-06:00

Our friend Stephanie nicknamed our little adventurer, Cora the Explorer, and I think the name suits her well. So, when we spent the weekend with her grandma, grandpa, aunt Maddie and all of her great grandparents on my side, Cora was more than happy to show off her mobile skills and then some. Cora always seems to amuse everyone....even my parents new puppy! Unfortunately, Sophie (the puppy) seemed to think Cora was a puppy too...she tried to play tug of war with her, but usually Cora would get knocked over or just stare at Sophie like she was a crazy lady. Lily, our lab, is so great with Cora...letting her stand on her and chase her in the walker, but Sophie still has some baby lessons to learn - it was very cute though :). Cora was quite the mover and shaker this weekend...she even climbed a few steps twice! Maddie seemed to think it was awesome that she was "finally getting it", but I wasn't too keen on having a mountain climber so soon. At least Cora doesn't need lots of toys to entertain her...there is always the dishwasher, exercise ball, cabinets, laundry room, stairs, dogs and the list goes on. Her great grandma Cora did by her some great spanish/english/musical maracas that she now carries with her everywhere, making wonderful music as she crawls and bangs them on the floor...uno, bang, dos, bang, tres, bang....just like Dora.

Cora and Sophie

I'll just sit right here....

So determined while shaking

I got this mom...

See...I told you.

Helping with the dishes
hmmm...can I make it across?
I like to help!

Maybe I have a little exerciser in the future...or maybe the big ball is just really cool

What happened to crawling?

2008-11-10T10:23:00.004-06:00

Cora has only been crawling (true crawling not army style) for 2 weeks now, but apparently she has decided to move on to bigger and better things. Last week she started trying to pull herself to the standing position on a regular basis, but it was always a half stance and was met immediately with a fall to her bum. Not anymore! Yesterday she pulled herself completely up on the side of the chair...and actually stayed there for awhile! Well, it only takes one time...now that is all she wants to do! Sure, she still crawls to get her toys, chase Lily or follow me around the house. However, crawling is now the means to get to her end (her spot to practice standing)...i.e. the entertainment center, shelving, fireplace, chair, sofa, daddy...well you get the idea. Any dibs on how soon she will be walking...?

Need I explain any of these photos....

Happy Anniversary!

2008-11-06T20:47:00.004-06:00

Today is our fourth anniversary! Wow! Time really does fly when you are having fun :). I am so grateful to be married to such a wonderful man and father. Each day I thank God for putting Jason in my life and giving me such beautiful, smart and talented children. Jason is everything that I could have ever asked for in a husband. He is intelligent, kind, generous, funny, honest and a great cook. I am honored to be his wife and thankful that he works so hard...which allows me to stay home with Miss Cora. I just can't believe it has already been 4 years! Here are some photos from our wedding...

so young, yet still dapper

Cora says....

2008-11-04T15:14:00.003-06:00

Get Out And Vote!!!!

Cora got up at 5am to vote today....so, no excuses :) (she even has her voter sticker on)

Trouble never looked so cute

2008-11-02T21:35:00.006-06:00

Well....Cora is officially mobile! She has been army crawling for quite some time now, but she finally decided to crawl for real last Thursday. Now all she wants to do is see how fast she can get to the areas of the house I have made off limits. The little stinker has actually turned and smiled at me when she goes to touch something on the fireplace or bookshelf. Needless to say, we spent Saturday Cora proofing :). We still have a lot of work to do, but I think she is out of harms way (at least for another week or so). Cora is going to keep me busy though....I spent the entire weekend pulling her away from everything that she shouldn't be climbing on, but 2 seconds later she was back in the same spot trying again to explore her surroundings. I think I am going to need a daily nap now that she is on the move ;).

Crawling around the chair just to get to the only spot of the fireplace that was unprotected

Caught red handed :)

This took 20 seconds to achieve

Second time going to get her off the fireplace

Hey...lemme outta here Such a ham
Please mom...I promise I won't try to climb the stairs... Working on pulling herself up

Cora's First Halloween

2008-11-01T21:11:00.007-05:00

Our very first Halloween with Miss Cora couldn't have been more perfect. We were so busy that I didn't get to take a ton of pictures, but enough to capture my sweet baby in her costume and trick or treating. Jason had an appointment with Cora's grandma at Rothman, so we had to take grumpy bear and show her off to all of my old coworkers. Cora had her serious teddy bear role down pat and everyone loved her costume. I had originally bought her costume thinking the weather would be cold and rainy (as it is every Halloween in St. Louis), but it was sunny and 75 degrees! Poor thing was so hot in her costume, but she was still a good sport and didn't even try to pull it off. After Cora finished showing off for everyone, we headed home for some trick or treating with our neighbors and their son Charlie. Unfortunately, Cora is a little too young for the candy, but I certainly enjoyed taking her around to show off my grumpy teddy bear...oh, but she did get a toy! Once we had exhausted ourselves after 2 blocks of trick or treating, we headed home to share some yummy chili, cornbread and oatmeal cookies with grandma (gamma) Vicky, grandpa Mike, great-grandma Gwen & great-grandpa Vito. Thank you great-grandparents for the wonderful Halloween pumpkin flashlight and jammies! Cora will love using the flashlight in years to come :). Of course Cora had to show everyone how she has perfected her crawling, and was persistent at pulling herself up on great-grandpa's pants :). We are so blessed to have shared Cora's first Halloween our family and friends! Until next year....

Not so grumpy :)

Cora and Charlie...they look so happy in their costumes ;)

Mode of transportation...Cora couldn't really figure out why I was making her sit in the wagon

Mom, can I get out now?

I love this little bear....

Grumpy Bear

2008-10-28T21:14:00.005-05:00

Yesterday (despite the fact that we didn't get home and in bed until midnight the night before) I decided to stick Cora in her Halloween costume and attend the Moms Connection Halloween Party. She didn't wake up until 9, so I figured she might be in a decent mood to visit her playgroup friends and party with some other babies. Poor thing was the quietest I have ever seen her! She lounged in my lap for the entire party (so unlike her) and refused to crack even one smile for the camera. Needless to say, I didn't take too many photos of my little grumpy bear (no worries though...I will take a million on Halloween!). Afterward, we decided to show the little ones off to our friend, Sister Frances Therese, who heads up our Moms & Tots group at church. She was so excited to see the kiddos all decked out in their costumes. I know I am a little partial to my sweet punkin, but I have to say she is just too darn cute in her Teddy Bear costume (I think I could dress her up everyday)! She was so good about the head piece and the paws too...she only tried to pull them off once :). Stay tuned for photos from trick or treating!

No smiling for momma...(at least she sat still with the pumpkins!)

Cora and her buddy Joseph from playgroup
Harrison and Joseph....and my grumpy bear in the backgroundSuch a sweet teddy!
Cora, Joseph and Sister....I just love Cora's expression, always the serious one

Texas fun with family and friends

2008-10-27T19:03:00.007-05:00

We took our monthly trip to Texas this past weekend. Cora loves hanging out with her big brothers so much! I know she is little, but the adoration on her sweet face when she sees her brothers lets me know that the plane rides and change in sleep schedules are totally worth it. I just wish we could see them more often. We had a nice relaxing weekend with family and friends....not to mention some yummy Mexican food :)! Most of the weekend Cora spent snuggling with Taylor and Tyler and watching them play basketball in the beautiful Texas weather (all that fresh air also made for some great naps!), but we did get to celebrate our friend Madeline's first birthday. The party was wonderful and we are so blessed to have friends as wonderful as Nikki and Madeline. I think Jason wanted to feed Cora some of Madeline's delicious cake, but I said no (such a mean mommy)...even though I did catch him giving Cora a piece of celery to suck on (no comment). I still can't believe that Cora still has so much changing to do before her first birthday! Cora really missed spending time with her G'Ma this weekend though and I know her G'Ma missed her just as much. Cora is such a little jet setter and she did so well with all the traveling...even on the 10pm flight back to St. Louis (okay, okay that flight was a little rough, but hey at least she fell asleep when the plane hit the runway).

Cora and big brother Taylor

Beautiful weather for a little scrimmage

ah...brotherly love :)

Madeline...really enjoying her birthday cake!

Cora loved all of Madeline's toys...especially this number 9 (it was in almost all my shots!)

Snuggle time with Tyler

I just love when she furrows her eyebrows :)
helping Tyler play the XBox guitar

Jog Stroller, Oh How I Love Thee...

2008-10-22T18:04:00.006-05:00

It's no secret that Cora doesn't nap well. I can maybe squeeze three 30 minute naps out of her a day, but for the most part she is to curious with her world to really get a good nap in. No matter how much white noise I play, she will wake to the sound of me doing dishes, Lily's collar or a car honking....through her closed door! She is just such a busy little bee that naps are apparently not that interesting. I have tried letting her play in her crib until she wears herself out, but she will just play...and play...and play. She is just like her daddy! Nighttime is a piece of cake, but this sleeping during the day business is quite a hurdle. That was until the jog stroller came along... I L-O-V-E this stroller! No matter how hard she tries, after about 15 minutes it's snoozeville. Last week she even slept in her daddy's office for an extra 2 hours...while he worked away! I must say, that is pretty amazing for a baby who wakes at the littlest noise. Maybe it is more motivation for me to go out for a daily run too....

Pre run sweet face

All bundled up and ready to go!

50 minutes later...ah, so peaceful :)

Trip to the Pumpkin Patch

2008-10-17T12:42:00.006-05:00

I can't begin to express how much I love fall! Everything from the leaves changing, sweaters and the first fire in the fireplace to the family gatherings and pumpkin spice latte at Starbucks, this season is by far my favorite :). Needless to say, when it came time to take Cora to the pumpkin patch for the very first time, I was ecstatic at the very least. I am a big holiday person, so I had to put Cora in the perfect Halloween attire complete with a bow on her head (actually, her very first one!) We decided to head out to Rombach Farms, my childhood pumpkin patch. I still can't believe how much it changes year to year...now they have a haunted tunnel! It was a perfect, crisp evening without the crowds of the weekend, which was awesome and allowed us to take lots of pictures of Cora without having to move out of the way for other families (taking photos of a baby can require lots of shots ;)) We picked out a family of pumpkins...a daddy, a mommy, 2 brothers and a baby one! Oh, and lots of little gourds for inside the house. This will soon become one of my favorite family traditions! Enjoy some of the best photos from the evening, but stay tuned to see how the carving of 5 pumpkins turns out!

Sweet Girl

Family Photo

Such a tiny pea among the pumpkins

Picking out the "daddy" pumpkin

mmm...tasty pumpkin :)

6 Month Check Up & Fun With Rice Cereal

2008-10-15T12:29:00.006-05:00

(her favorite activity...spitting raspberries)

Today was Cora's 6 month well baby check up. Dr. Norton was very pleased with how Cora is growing! She happily commented about Cora's "chunky" thighs and how big she is getting. We talked about Cora's desire to be mobile and she agreed that Cora seems to think she is older than 6 months :), but we have to get serious about the baby proofing. (as a side note on the baby proofing - I caught Cora taking her band aids off her legs and trying to eat them...sigh, I am so not prepared) We got the go ahead on rice cereal, water in a sippy and after 2 weeks we can start trying other new foods. Cora is just such a wiggle worm; we had to do the entire appointment with her sitting on daddy's lap. The only downside to the check up were the shots...3 vaccine shots, 1 flu shot and 1 oral vaccine. Needless to say, my lil' punkin was not thrilled with the nurse. Here are Cora's 6 month stats:

Height 27.5 inches (96%)

Weight 16lbs 1oz (54%)

Head Circ 42 (45%)

Tonight we decided to give Cora her first "meal"! I think Jason was hoping for spaghetti and meatballs, but right now we will have to stick with rice cereal. I thought we would have a huge mess, but boy was I wrong. Cora opened her mouth like a little bird after the first initial spoonful and by the end she was trying to put the spoon in her mouth on her own. I guess she is definitely ready to eat off a spoon. She actually was sucking on the clean spoon, banging it on the high chair and squealing when all the cereal had been consumed...I think she wanted more :). Here are some photos from the big event (I took a video, but apparently it is too large to upload and has to be edited...once that is done, I will upload it to the blog).

will ya feed me already?!

hhmmm very interesting...

Hey...this is pretty good!

A BIG Weekend

2008-10-12T20:25:00.013-05:00

As I sat rocking my sweet baby to sleep this evening, I realized just how big she has become. My tiny newborn has been replaced with a curious 6 month old (who just happens to be in 9 month clothing) :). I have to be honest, as I thought about this blog, I became a little teary. (I know, I know...being a mom has made me even more sentimental) We just had such a "big" weekend and I don't think I was mentally prepared for all the "firsts" we have had lately. It seems as though everything is happening at once! Two teeth came in, she is working on crawling, she knows to bang her toys together to make noise (beautiful noise), she started making the sound "la", using her tongue to make spitting sounds, smiling for the camera and now the biggest one of all (you'll have to see at the bottom). Okay - enough of the emotional moment and onto our "Big" blog!

This weekend was Cora's first half birthday! I can't believe it has already been half a year since she entered this world. That alone would have made this weekend big enough, but as you read through the blog you will find what momentous event topped the "big" list. Since Jason, grandma and grandpa were out of town, we spent the weekend with Cora's aunt Maddie. We had a blast going to Maddie's volleyball game on Friday and spending every waking moment showing her how badly Cora wants to crawl (she actually moved both knees today before face planting, so I think the crawling will be any day now). On Saturday we went to Babies R Us to by some important "big" girl stuff. The list included: Rice cereal (organic of course), cute bowls for her to eat out of, baby food trays (that's right, I plan to make some of my own), 12 month clothes, bigger shoes and now that she is mobile, some much needed baby proofing supplies. Sunday we went to church and headed to the Wallich's for a play date with our "big" friends, Rosie (3) and Jilli (1). Cora and Jilli played so well together and she really held her own with the big girls. Thank you Melissa for having us over! Here are a few photos from this weekend...(don't forget to scroll down and read the second part of the blog for Cora's biggest moment!)

Cora and Aunt Maddie before her volleyball game

Cora and Rosie
Getting acquainted
Jilli and Cora playing
aww sweet hugs

Ok....the "big" event (at least I consider it big - she only turned 6 months yesterday). Tonight, I sat Cora in her crib to play while I got her bath started. This is usually no cause for concern, but when I walked in the room and saw Cora, I knew we had reached a major milestone. Jason was just talking about how we needed to lower her mattress this week just in case she started crawling. Well, I don't think the crawling is going to be the issue anymore....

Getting in position

Ta Da!!!!!

And one sweet pic to end the weekend

Movin on up (insert song tune here) :)

2008-10-09T15:40:00.009-05:00

Well today was very busy for Miss Cora. I decided to take her to our normal baby Gymboree class for one last hurrah before we moved up to the "big" 6 month class. She is definitely ready! All the other babies lay on their blankets while the mommies sing to them, but not Cora. Cora has to be on her hands and knees or rolling all over the place 95% of the time. This means that I am always singing songs to her back while she tries to become mobile. In between classes we went to lunch with 3 mommies from the "small" class and 1 mommy who was going to try the "big" class. Since Cora took a quick cat nap and was in a good mood we went back for more Gymboree after lunch. (I think I am Gymboree'd out for the day :) ) It was a hit! They just started another session and right now it is empty so it was just Cora and Brynn and one big play gym. At 6 months they get to play on all the play gyms, which Cora absolutely loved. She got to go down a slide, roll in a wheel and play on the peek a boo bridge. Today was the first day that she really enjoyed peek a boo. Every time I would jump up she just laughed and laughed - of course she had to have something in her mouth the whole time she giggled so no good photos of that big sweet grin. All the playing must have loosened her diaper (not that it is ever tight anymore since she is such a wiggle worm) and when she rolled over I noticed she had wet her clothes. Needless to say, when I went to put a new outfit on her, my little sassy pants threw a huge fit when she had to leave her toys. Soooo, we spent the rest of the play time in just a diaper and then we had to walk home without any clothes on. Everyone was probably looking at me like I was a looney toon! Here are some shots from today!

Tasting scarves on the peek a boo bridge

Cora and Brynn on the bridge
Trying to get the bubbles
Naked with the beach ball (read post for explanation :) )
More bubbles
Lounging on Gymbo the Clown (it's nice she feels so relaxed)
Practicing her crawl stance
In the middle of peek a boo (she was laughing through the toy)
My fave shot of the day....she just was letting me know she was having fun

Taylor's 16th Birthday and fun with Tyler

2008-10-08T22:01:00.005-05:00

I forgot to add one of the most important events of Cora's life so far: her big brother, Taylor's 16th Birthday! Happy Birthday Taylor! His first car is a Nissan X-Terra....sweet ride! He was so excited and surprised. We are so proud of you Tay.

This is the only girl who should be in your backseat :)

Tyler was sweet enough to watch Cora while I got ready. She certainly enjoys playing X-Box with her big brother...or maybe just tasting the controller.

Music together....and a little rockin'

2008-10-07T20:37:00.006-05:00

I decided to sign me and Cora up for a music class with our friends Heather and Clive. She loves music and dancing, so I figured I would encourage her musical ability :). I was a little hesitant at first since it is an all ages class, but she really enjoys her surroundings now that she is sitting unassisted. The class is turning out to be a hit! She really loves all the instruments (she likes to taste them more than anything) and gets a kick out of mommy dancing around the room with her. Robert, her instructor is awesome and watching her take in all the other children dancing around is quite fun too. Today we played with the tambourine and maracas. I like to think she is musically inclined, but it's kinda hard to tell when there is a whole room of kids playing different instruments at the same time...to their own tune.

making beautiful music
I think I will taste the maraca now
First try shaking that tambourine
mom...you're always taking my pic
Shakin the tambourine....ah, so talented

Ok...now the rockin part...:)

Cora is trying so hard to crawl, but I can never seem to capture her on her knees rockin back and forth. She always quits right when I pull the camera out. Well, my quest is over! I only got one good shot, but you can get the idea. She is so mobile...rolling and scooting all over the place...from one end of the room to the other. I figure it is only a matter of time before the crawling begins.

Rockin' Rockin'

Dang...you caught me...

I thought I would throw this one in here too. She loves to take the velcro off her puppy. She had this guilty smirk when I caught her on camera tonight. :)

C'mon Already

2008-10-06T21:15:00.005-05:00

I just want this next tooth to come through...sigh. Poor Cora has had the sniffles, rash and general cranks all day as this tooth works its way in. Anyone who has met Miss Cora knows that she isn't one to cry, squeal at the top of her lungs...yes, but not cry. This is why I know today has been particularly tough on my sweet punkin. We had to leave our Moms & Tots group at church early and I have spent most of the day holding her (which I have to say is nice - she is such a busy little bee that we rarely cuddle anymore). I did manage to get a sweet smile out of her though....really the only reason why I am posting...it was too adorable not to share.

We thought our hearts were full

2008-10-05T22:33:00.005-05:00

Yet a baby can fill an emptiness you didn't even know was there.

It is hard to believe that on Saturday, October 11th Cora Genevieve Ochs will be 6 months old. I have been trying to put this blog together for some time now, but the days have passed before my eyes. My sweet baby is growing so fast! I will keep this first entry as short as possible. These are some snapshots into the past 6 months of sweet baby Cora.

Cora was baptized June 23, 2008 at Holy Redeemer Parish in Webster Groves. Thank you Grandma & Grandpa for the beautiful christening gown from New Orleans! She was such a sweet baby that day - no naps - but in a wonderful mood!

Cora's first vacation! Mackinac Island was a beautiful place and it was wonderful to be with family! It was a little chilly at the beginning - hence my little eskimo, but all in all it was a great first trip for the baby!

Cora and her big brothers Tay and Ty

Already has so much to say....just like her mommy :)

and I like to think she is sooooo smart

Cora loves to *taste* all of her toys :)

Ok - now that my first blog is finished, I promise to keep up on my posts of sweet Cora. I have so many things to add....especially with 2 teeth coming in, starting solids in 2 weeks and she is on the verge of crawling any time now. If you made it this far - thanks for reading! I look forward to sharing all the joy that Cora brings me each day.