You are currently browsing the motyka.org weblog archives for May, 2006.

Breaking news…

Posted In: Everyday life — May 19, 2006 @ 1:32 pm — Stephanie

…Amelia has what appears to be TWO teeth coming in on the bottom! This explains SO much! She’s had a rash, been a VERY cranky baby, and hasn’t been sleeping well lately.

She also stayed up in a sit by herself yesterday for nearly 20 minutes!

My girl is growing up!

Comments Off

Meeting Busia, Nana, Papa, Aunts, Uncle, and Cousins…

Posted In: Travel, Everyday life — May 15, 2006 @ 10:39 pm — Stephanie

Peter and I finally made it out to Chicago so Amelia could meet more of her extended family for the first time. The flight there was a bit bumpy, but Amelia did great. She didn’t so much as whimper, which earned us a compliment from a fellow passenger. Our stay in Chicago was too short, as we left feeling like we didn’t get to spend enough time with anyone–especially my sisters and brother. I hadn’t seen Autumn or Melissa in over two years, and hadn’t seen Daniel in three. My sisters’ kids are all growing up so fast, I know it won’t be long before people are saying that about Amelia.

Busia (grandma) was doing well. I loved spending time with her and seeing her with Amelia. She told me stories about my dad and his siblings when they were babies, and the kind of father my grandfather was. Peter and I took her out to dinner and just enjoyed every last minute with her. She adores Amelia and kept telling us how pretty she is, how smart she is, how strong she is, and how happy a baby she is. As often as I think those things myself, it’s amazing how good it can make you feel to hear those things coming from someone you love and respect as much as I do my grandmother.

For those who didn’t know, Amelia’s middle name (June) was chosen to honor my grandmother. It meant a lot to me to give my daughter her name, and I know it means a lot to Busia, too. Hopefully, someday, it will mean a lot to Amelia, too.

We also spent time down south in Manteno, visiting Peter’s paternal grandfather, Frank. He was a charming and sweet host, making us laugh and fascinating us with stories about his experiences in WW II. He held Amelia for a little while and challenged Peter to a game of pool. I can’t remember who won, but fun was had by all.

My father and mother both adored Amelia, and the feelings seemed to be mutual. She smiled and explored their faces with her busy little hands. Both were very sad to say goodbye and have plans to come out to visit this year.

Aunt Virg came over to Grandma’s from next door to hold Amelia and was lovely as usual. She’s a wonderful woman who is winning the fight against cancer and I couldn’t be prouder of her. I love you, Aunt Virg!

We also went out to dinner with my brother Daniel and his sweetheart girlfriend, Kristen, who I met for the first time that night. I hadn’t seen him in three years and just wanted to hug him forever! I’ve missed him soooo much!

Our hotel had a pool, so we made use of it for an hour one of the days we were there. It was really nice, and Amelia loved it! She was a little concerned at first, but soon was splashing in her little inflatable boat thingy.

We had a LOT of fun!!!

We had to say goodbye much too soon. Amelia slept the entire way home, from before take-off until right when we exited the plane. I am so proud of my wee one. She’s amazing!

More pics in the “Family” section of the pictures gallery–under “Chicago Trip”.

Comments Off