Happy 1st Birthday Nate!

We celebrated Nate's 1st birthday at our house on April 2. We didn't go too overboard; we just invited our family and close friends. I did a jungle animals theme. The decorations were green buckets with animal cookies in them. The cookies were both the decorations and the party favors. Throw in a cake and some balloons, and you've got yourself a great birthday party. We cooked some our homemade gumbo for the meal; I think it was a big hit with everyone at the party.
I can't believe we have celebrated our last 1st birthday in the Rau household. Nate has been such a blessing to our family. We love you so much little man! We look forward to many more birthdays in the future.
At Nate's one year check-up, he was a little on the slim side weighing in at just over 19 pounds. He was in the 25%tile for his weight, but made it into the 50%tile for his height. He is by far smaller than Kade and Brady were at one year of age. He got some shots that day and did great with them. The tears only lasted a few seconds. Nothing his thumb and blanket didn't take of. We're not talking too much yet, but we say a few things. He shakes his head yes when he wants something and no when he doesn't. He can throw a fit like nobody's business and turn around and love on you the next minute. Nate sleeping through the night like a pro now, which mommy and daddy love. We are pretty much through with bottles. All the baby stuff is coming to an end. Our little baby is growing into a little boy now. It's exciting and sad all at the same time. Next were off to public school, then college, and then married and gone.

Opening Day of Little League!

Kade is playing his second and last year of t-ball this year before he moves up next year to pitching machine. Dane, Cody Stelter, and Clay Sparks are coaching the team again this year. They are the "Blue Claws" this season. During opening ceremonies this year, all the team were introduced out on the field at Fireman's Park where the Cubs play and then we had the pleasure of listening to Dustin M. as the guest speaker. It was a great turn out and a great way to kick off another season of Washington County Little League.

11 Months Old! Belated!

At 11 months old, Nate was full speed ahead. There was nothing that could stop him now. He had that walking business down pat. He waves bye-bye and tells you "Bye." He does not act like an 11 month old baby; he wants to be 4 and 6 years old like his brothers. He has started drinking whole milk now, which means we start cutting out those expensive formula bottles. He continues to eat all table food, and for now we haven't found anything that he doesn't like. He loves to take baths. It is so funny because he loves to lay down in the tub and blow bubbles in the water. Dane and I think he will be our little water bug like Kade is. Nate is just such a joy to be around. He continues to be such a happy, upbeat baby. He always has that precious smile plastered on his cute face. He brings nothing but fun, joy, and laughter into our lives.