Cousin Ozzy

Today we attended one last Christmas gathering, making the short trip to Lacey's parents' home to visit with some of her relatives from far-flung areas. It was nice to see everyone, and even Madeline had someone her own age to play with.

Little Ozzy, Madeline's distant cousin, was born about a month before her, and they share many similarities in mannerisms. I've always found it interesting to see other babies the same age as Madeline - you realize that many things they do, from their noises and motions to the way they react to certain objects and situations, are almost exactly the same.

Madeline and Ozzy enjoyed playing together and Madeline quickly opened up, unlike the last time she had an organized play date and took a little longer to warm up. I wonder if her weekly visits to the daycare at my gym have helped acclimate her to other kids? She seems to be opening up in public much more easily - sometimes I wonder where her outgoing nature comes from.

The two babies were the center of attention all day, but the highlight of the afternoon came during our stroll along the quiet road where the Englands live. At one point the two strollers were about a foot apart, and both babies reached out to hold the other's hand as we walked!