Welcome, Baby Caleb!

Caleb Michael Nickel was born on March 17, 2008 (St. Patrick's Day) at 4:05 p.m. He weighed 8 lbs. 3 oz., and was 20 1/2 in. long. He was also born with a FULL head of dark brown hair.

We thought Jackson had a lot of hair when he was born, but Caleb sure showed him up.
So far, we've had an easy transition going from a family of 3 to a family of 4. Jackson absolutely adores Caleb! He loves giving him lots of hugs & kisses, checks in on him while he's sleeping, helps with diaper changes, and tries to share his snacks/drinks with Caleb. Jackson is truly the best big brother ever! We are so proud of him.

The first picture of our new family!

Celebrating St. Patrick's Day and his birthday in style!

Sweet, sleeping baby boy.

Cutie patootie!

Daddy and his new little boy.

Brothers and best buds!

What a good big brother, sharing his milk.

Checking in on brother.

Showing Caleb how to play with his toys.

Cutest little brother ever!

All About Jackson/ Preparing for Caleb

So I guess it's about time I posted an update about Jackson (it's been quite a while, I know). I can't believe our little guy is going to be 2 years old next month! I can't even remember life before him, but it just doesn't seem like he should be two yet. He is just getting to be such a big boy, which is so bittersweet.
Here are some of the latest and greatest about Jackson:
* He calls trains "too-toos".
* His favorite sayings are "I do it." and "I did it."
* He says "more" and points to his mouth when he wants more of something.
* Even though he can say "yes" and "ya", he usually says "yow" instead.
* He loves to dance to the washing machine.
* He loves to help cook and unload the dishwasher.
* He loves trains and cars.
* He loves his baby cousin Evan!
* He goes potty every night before bath time (and sometimes during the day as well).
* He now say "bae-bae" for baby, instead of "bubble".
* He repeats a lot more of what we say (esp. when we're reading to him).
* He unfortunately had to be tested for allergies, and has a life threating allergy to peanuts.
* He is getting to be more independent each day (usually a blessing).
* He has been helping prepare for his new baby brother, Caleb.
* He still loves The Backyardiagans, but now also loves Clifford, Thomas the Tank Engine, &
Veggie Tales (yeah, a little variety).
* He likes to watch cooking shows.
* He loves to use the Swiffer (Little Mr. Clean).
* He'll eat ANYTHING with a fork or spoon, even graham crackers!

Check out some of the ways Jackson has been helping to
prepare for Caleb's arrival.

Helping install Caleb's ceiling fan.

Playing in the box Caleb's bedding came in. He played with this box for days.
(After he helped take it out.)

Making sure Caleb's bedding is soft and comfortable.

Getting ready to help paint Caleb's room.

Helping Grandaddy paint. What a big boy helper!