Goodbye 2004

Well, it's the last day of 2004. I've had quite a week since Christmas. Not only was it my first Christmas, but also my first time to be sick. I've finally gotten rid of the red cheeks but my runny nose persists. I guess I should be pretty thankful that I didn't get sick till I was about 9.5 months old and that it wasn't too severe. Mom and Dad have been sick too and are just now getting to feel better. I think they felt worse than me. At least we all decided to get sick as a family. We're slowly mending so maybe we can put this "viral infection," as Dad calls it, to sleep with 2004.

Do you want to hear what else I've been doing? Last Sunday, I stood by myself without holding onto anything, for about 15 seconds! I did that quite a few times in different places. And Monday, I was balancing and took a step towards Dad, without holding onto anything or anyone! I did it again in the family room while playing with toys. I've not taken more than one step, but I'm working on it. I will also now walk holding onto just one hand of an adult for assistance. That used to feel a bit precarious, but I'm mastering it now. It won't be too long, Mom and Dad, before I'm running around unassisted and you'll be out of breath chasing me!

Auntie Michelle left Tuesday afternoon to go back to California. I think that's a long way away. Maybe I'll go visit her one day and experience a plane ride so I can be one of those kids she always talks about. Wait a minute... Mom and Dad said that I don't want to be one of those kids; she doesn't talk about them like she talks about me. I'll try to stay in good standing as long as possible. I enjoyed Auntie's visit and hope I don't have to wait till next Christmas to see her again. Just think of how much I will have grown by then! Grandma left Wednesday morning to go back to Vonore; thanks for all the fun stuff you brought! It was a very nice visit.

It's the last day of 2004. I hope everyone has a fun and safe day. I don't think I'll be doing much to ring in the new year. Mom and Dad said they want me to be snoozing when the change-over to 2005 happens. Something about me still being sick and needing rest. Gotta say that I'm not so sure why 2004 has to end; I was enjoying it just fine. But, I hear 2005 will have lots of new experiences and discoveries and accomplishments for me. So, for that reason, I say "Happy New Year!"