Cole went to his 4 month check-up this week. After much poking and prodding Dr. Telzrow gave Cole a clean bill of health. New stats for The Boy™: Weight: 14 lbs 9 oz; Height: 25 1/2 inches. Cole received immunizations again but this time I was better prepared - gave him Tylenol before the appointment, had a bottle ready for after and had Daddy the fun factory with us. Cole still screamed when he got the shots but it didn't last as long this time.

Cole is developing his gross motor skills but not always in a coordinated fashion - when on his tummy he can lift up his bottom and push forward but he can't get his chest off the floor so he doesn't get very far.

Cole enjoys looking at his reflection in the mirror - he enjoys it so much that he will laugh and laugh at the first glimpse of his reflection.

Cole is making lots of noises - babbling, squealing and screeching.

He still enjoys playing with the mylar balloon - just attach the balloon to his foot or hand and he can entertain himself for hours.

We took a trip to Utah to attend my nephew Matthew's high school graduation and show Cole off to all the family and friends. We also took a trip to Elko, NV to attend Christopher's wedding. Cole had a packed 2 weeks - In Utah he met Uncle Steve and cousins Melanie, Matthew, Daniel and Tiffany; Aunt Diamond, Uncle Randy and Zane; Aunt Pat, cousins Kim, Stef, Taylor, McKenzie and Jaycee; Aimee and Chara; and lots of neighbors. In Nevada he met all the Hooiman clan and lots of Lauren's family.

Cole has picked up some new skills:

1. Sucking his hand...he is an equal opportunity sucker and gladly sucks on either hand sometimes both at the same time.

2. Batting at things...he swings his arms at toys dangling over him and is able to hit them most of the time. Brian is now trying to teach Cole the "pull my finger" trick.

3. Rolling on his side...he doesn't do it all the time yet but a number of times he has managed to get himself onto his side from his back.