What a month it has been! A new president was elected (and the one I wanted for a change), the Phillies won the world series, Alison had her first Halloween, she’s sleeping in her own crib without a swaddle, she’s grabbing her feet, she’s trying to sit up like her life depends on it, and this weekend she starts on solid foods! She had her 5 month appointment today and she weighs 20lbs 12oz and is 28 inches long. We were told she’s the size of a 10 month old baby – that’s our girl! So, as you can imagine, with so much happening this month, there are lots and lots of great pictures, and unfortunately I can only post so many here. Above is a picture of her, as you might have guessed, right after we voted on Tuesday, the day before she turned 5 months. Following are some more of out favorite pics:
Baby Legs and Pumpkins
We got babylegs for Alison, and they are just adorable and so convenient. Then we took her to the pumpkin patch at Linvilla Orchards – a place where my family used to go every year when I was kid. One thing I did not remember was the enormous crowds there.
Milestones
This month Alison shed the swaddle and moved to sleeping in her crib in her own room. I must say, it was bitter sweet. She also acheived a very fun milestone, she’s now grabbing her feet, or should I say foot, she really only grabs her left foot with her left hand, could she be left-handed? Hmmm…
2 Million Strong
For the first time in 25 years, Philadelphia won a championship. When I was a kid I loved the Phillies, I remember the 1980 world series win quite well and with great affection. Over the years I have lost interest in baseball, and with that, the Phillies and all of my interest and love has gone to the Eagles. But I have to say, this win has brought some of the love back. After watching the Phillies win on the big screen TVs at the Comcast Center, I decided I needed to march to Broad St. with the thousands of other people on the streets. For those not from Philly, Broad St. is a major street that runs through the entire city. For years, all we have heard is “I’ll see you at the parade on Broad St.” whenever we think we have a winner. After so many teases, it was hard to believe it finally happened. People couldn’t wait for the parade, and minutes after the win, thousands of people gathered in the middle of the street. I went to Broad St. more as an observer, and what I saw was an incredible mass of people celebrating in complete joy. It was infectious. As I walked away towards my home, I saw smile after smile, and heard cheer after cheer. It was hard for me to not feel a lump in my throat and remember how I felt when I was 9 years old when the Phillies last won, or to imagine how I would be jumping up and down in the middle of the street if it was the Eagles. I decided I needed to go to the parade with Alison. This was something that I needed to be a part of. So me, Alison, and my brother Rich marched down to Broad St. on Halloween afternoon and witnessed a moment of true human kindness. There was an estimated 2 million people at the parade and every person I encountered was incredibly nice. There was not even a hint of anything negative. Person after person cleared the way for me as they said, “here comes a little baby, get out of the way.” People were shaking hands, hugging, and laughing, and I never felt so proud to be a Philadelphia sports fan. It made me even more frustrated by the national reputation Philadelphia fans have. For those who say we are “fare weather” or “obnoxious” or “mean”. Or the laziest of all reporters who say ”we booed Santa Clause.” Sure, we have our moments, and we have a few individuals who really mess things up for us all. But overall, we are passionate fans who are always there. And when you bring us a championship, the best of all of us comes out. I never really believed that sports can bring people together until now. And dare I say it, a Phillies fan may have been reborn. And so, after my diatribe, here are some pictures of the event…
Getting ready to go to the parade:
Halloween
Two years ago, I realized the neighborhood we live in is Halloween central. Kids from all over the city come here, and the neighbors really get into it. Small streets close off and decorate with music, candy and celebration. It’s an amazing atmosphere. Two years ago I said I hoped we would have a baby in this neighborhood so we could take her/him out in this wonderful celebration. This Halloween I got my wish. After taking Alison to the Phillies parade, we dressed her up like a witch (and we dressed to match her costume) and took her out to see the trick or treaters. She was a huge hit. After her big day, she fell asleep in Rich’s arms as we walked around. Next year I’m sure she will take it all in a little more.
Asleep in daddy’s arms after her long day:
Election Day
I never felt so good going to the polls. As I closed the curtains and pushed on Obama’s name with Alison in my arms, I actually felt optimistic and excited – something I haven’t felt on election day in 8 years. Lets hope it’s not the last time!
