16.

The first fall tree we’ve noticed.

See more progress on: post 43 photographs from the morning walk

…ernie… aware of autumn…bizzaroverlea…coloring books…st. francis of assisi…

So today was first day of watching niece. It went swimmingly.

We watched her favorite shows right when I got there, as she was still in jammies and waking. Bro and Lysa changed her and then left for work, so we just chilled in the LR talking and watching tv. Programming included Sesame Street, which was a nice trip for me. She got a bit restless of the tv (and so was I—a good sign for the future) so we colored a bit and read a few of her books, many times over.

After a small snack, we went outside and threw the soccerball at one another, then attempted a walk with all four legs of ours, but the two little legs gave way after half a block and wanted to be carried. So, we went back inside for lunch. About 11:30 we feasted on pbj and a coupla teddy grahams. Then we suited up for a long stroller walk.

Anna waited so patiently (pictured) while I figured out how to work the damn stroller. Figured it out, finally. Walked around the short block and then just kept going for about forty-five minutes. It was a gorgeous early autumn day. The neighborhood is pretty hilly for Baltimore, made of of mostly brick duplexes. I passed quite a few mowers of lawns and a jogger or two. Also, a guy just sitting in front the driver’s seat of his red pickup on the roadside. Some odd lawn ornaments. It was great to point out all I saw to Anna, who just sat and listened. Quaint and quiet neighborhood, long and tiring (in a fantastic way) stroll. Anna fell asleep once I switched from the bumpy sidewalk to the smoother roadside. Once home, she barely woke as I unhitched her, got her vest and shoes off, and carried her inside and over to the couch where she continued zonking while I brought the stroller up to the porch. Then, I carried her upstairs to her crib, gave her Giraffe and and her binky and let her nap away. I read on the couch, feeling as if I could nap myself. Lysa came home about 1:30 and Anna woke up with a cry when she heard the front door. But as soon as her mum and I appeared in the doorway, all was well.

All told, I didn’t stain anything or burn the house down and Anna is getting very good at saying a word that resembles my name. (Closer than most people get, really…) Can’t wait for next time!

See more progress on: Spend more time with my niece.