An afternoon at Uncle Steve's

Phoebe's almost 5 1/2 months old. And as her Yia-yia, I would love to write something really profound, inspired, insightful, but I can't find words to express the joy it is to being her Yia-Yia. I'm sure Deno would agree. I think if anything, I want not to make my words in this blog so meaningful, as I do the time Phoebe and I get to spend together. I want her to know that her Yia-yia and Papouli loves her and prays for her that God would be the closest friend she ever has.

One thing I'm experiencing is being a grandmother who is present in her granddaughter's life. This is a completely new adventure for me and for my kids, but one I'm sure will be treasured for years to come. Growing up Deno nor I never had the privilege of having extended family living close by. The Newells and Rousopoulos' were blessed by the church being our family. But now, we're blessed by having our kids living close by and the joy of their company.
This is Steven's new home. It's a townhouse down in the Broadripple area close to the Indianapolis Art Center.


After church today, Rose, Phoebe, Ryan, Deno and myself all went to Steven's home. He's so proud of it and we all celebrate with him in this new purchase. We pitched in and had lunch together. Phoebe slept through part of lunch, but then awoke not quite having slept enough. She's having some challenges of not sleeping long enough to be well rested during the day. She is doing pretty well through the night though. Rose and Ryan are doing great as parents.


Phoebe never fails to make us laugh and say all kinds of babyish things. She's wanting to sit up by herself and she's getting stronger every day. She's curious about her hands and feet--which both find their way to her mouth often. She loves to try to mimic sounds or have hers mimiced. She loves music and watching her mother dance. Note, I said mother and not yia-yia.

I had a new experience this week in regards to Phoebe. I went to a friend's resale shop and found some cute things to have here at the house for her. I love denim and found a little jacket and jumper for her. Last week I went to a neighbor's garage sale and got some baby blankets and a toy. So we're slowly getting our home "grand-daughterized!"