Classic Tessa

Tessa's new thing is sucking in her cheeks while making a kissing noise. Yes, even when eating.

A happy Tessa, a none-too-thrilled Sam

Tessa's Quirky Side

A Visit to the Farm

Tessa & Aunt Joan

Daddy & Tessa in the tree house

Daddy gets ready for Tessa's future boyfriends ...

... Mommy does, too

Tessa & Uncle Mike

The weekend of July 18 and 19, we trekked up to Lily, SD, to visit the farm where Great-Aunt Joan and Great-Uncle Mike spend their summers. It's also where Grandpa Bill grew up. Tessa loved being outdoors - walking on grass for the first time and on the long, gravel driveway, smelling flowers (she does NOT like the smell of marigolds) and touching tree leaves. Tessa loved the farm!

'Don't Blame Me, I Just Got Here'

Mmmm hmmm. That's what they all say. And that's what Tessa says, too. When we say: "Tessa, it's bath night - woo hoo!" she hears: "Tessa, feel free to take fistfuls of your turkey vegetable rice supper, squeeze it between your fingers, and then run it through your hair!"

Baby Steps

This is how excited Tessa was after she took seven – count 'em, SEVEN – steps from Daddy to Mommy without assistance on Saturday night. After her first two steps by herself, she knew we were excited about something, and that's when she became uber giggly. So, Eric and I had to settle down so that she could regain her focus. And focus she did! I think she knows we're proud of her, and it's great to see how proud of herself she is!

Play Ball!