The land of all things Ernie

Sorry folks...

2011-03-29T13:59:00.000-07:00

No photos of our holiday because we've run out of space!

Please bear with us while we try to rectify the situation...

STAY TUNED!!!

Its flippin' Christmas !!!

2010-12-28T12:14:00.000-08:00

Shenanigans

2010-08-12T04:51:00.000-07:00

Daddy, Nana and Grandad are from (Northern) Ireland. I need to teach them lots of things due to the differences in culture when they are in England.

This is me teaching them about shenanigans - Nana in particular is a natural.

Walkies!!!

2010-08-09T09:52:00.000-07:00

As some of you know, it is important to take regular exercise, particularly in later life when the joints are prone to seize up. I believe in taking a proactive role in my family's well-being and leading by example.

Ok people, let's work!

Not only does a brisk walk keep you trim, it gets the circulation moving, gives you plenty of fresh air and puts colour in your cheeks!

Some bloke called Morris

2010-08-09T08:53:00.000-07:00

I took Mummy, Daddy, Nana and Grandad to Compton Verney again because its been about a year since I was there last. It was brilliant! Not only we have some nice scran at the cafe but the waitress fancied me and gave me some free ice-cream...it was abso-flaming-lutely delicious! What I want to know is why have I not been given ice-cream before. Mum? Dad?

After lunch we went outside to watch some bloke called Morris, dancing.

It turns out that there were LOADS of people called Morris dancing...some of them were even girls!

It was bloomin' interesting, I can tell you!

Then one of the
ladies called Morris put this hat on me and asked my Mummy if I would like to be called Morris and dance too!

SoMummy and I decided that we wouldn't mind being Morrises if it meant we could dance together and wave some big sticks around. I have no idea WHAT it was all in aid of but it certainly made Mummy very happy and very tired and you know me, I do like a dance - especially if banging things is involved...

That done, I decided it was time to give Daddy a good work out...catch me if you can Daddy!

Birthday Lunch

2010-08-09T06:23:00.000-07:00

Vegemmtablemm Lasagnemmm mmm mmm, num num num

Sandwell Valley Park Farm

2010-08-09T06:13:00.000-07:00

Ooh whats that Daddy?

On my birthday day I did lots of cool stuff...and some scary stuff too. Mummy and Daddy took me to look at some animals in their houses. Some of them were very smelly and didn't appear to have any indoor plumbing...


"Hello there Ernie! Happy Birthday!!! 'Scuse the mess, I weren't expectin' no visitors..."

I tell you what, I didn't like the cows very much. One of them was big and made of plastic and I just didn't like the way it looked at me ONE BIT- especially after Mummy freaked me out in the gift shop by putting on an owl mask and then whipping it off again...

Thank goodness they had a puddy cat! A bit of normality in amongst all this weirdness!!

Luckily I was able to cuddle Daddy all the way around the farm because although he would never admit it, I think he was a little bit frightened and needed a bit of reassurance.

Pooped

2010-08-09T05:02:00.000-07:00

Opening presents can really take it out of you...

Happy Birthday to ME!! Happy to ME!! Happy Birthday dear ME-EE!! Happy Birthday to MEEEEE!!!!

2010-07-26T08:48:00.000-07:00

Its not at ALL grim up North!!! :-)

2010-07-26T06:01:00.000-07:00

Me and Mummy went 'oop North' a ways to see our mate Anne-Marie who is expecting a wee July man to arrive shortly...as we all know, July men are the best kind of wee men to expect! Anne-Marie was full of beans and already full prepared and psyched up for her bundle of joy...she made MY mum look like a right schlub in comparison, I can tell you! Posing in these photographs is a friend of Anne-Marie's who had also come up from the Midlands to say "howdy" (hmm, or is it "'ow do?"). His name is Alan Cheeseman - it was very exciting for me because I got to meet a man made out of cheese!!!

It was a big long drive on the motorway and I HATED it - strapped in for hours on end with only the back of Mummy's head for entertainment...she sang me some songs but that wasn't very impressive... She did redeem herself slightly by taking me to this cute B&B for the night in Marple down a bumpy track in the middle of nowhere though...I got a brilliant nights sleep cuddled up with Mummy in this big bed. Mummy seemed a bit bleary-eyed the next day though - no idea why that was...the big bed was a-mazing!!! There was plenty to play with as you can see. I had my first shower (didn't think much to that to be quite honest with you) , my first climb into a bay window (now that was ace!) and my first experience of watching Dick and Dom in Da Bungalow (I thought it was a bit silly but Mum seemed to enjoy it). We also went to a local ale house for our tea and the old men that propped up the bar made a big fuss of me. So did the barmaids - eee it were proper good!

Would love to go again but maybe next time I'll take the train?

A lovely day out with my Mummy AND my Daddy!!!

2010-07-01T09:40:00.000-07:00

Mummy took the weekend off work so we could all spend some time together as a family and catch up with all our friends. We went to two picnics, Bourneville fete, heard Carillion bells played by the minimalist composer Charlemagne Palestine (I am big on the minimalism - I think its something to do with being shorter than other people) and went to this brilliant playground near our house! Afterwards we put a blanket down under the trees so I could stretch my legs and frolic about whilst Daddy had a quick snooze (Daddy is really good at snoozing). Summer is really good fun. I like it best when the old folks get their act together and their priorities straight...it all about quality time and getting that work/life balance. I mean, look how happy and relaxed they are. They should focus all of their attention on me more often, theres so much for them to learn that only I can teach.

The Razzies

2010-07-01T07:43:00.000-07:00

You call that a raspberry? Step aside Daddio and let me show you how its done...

As you can see, mine is clearly cuter

Weekends with Daddy II - Duck Tales

2010-06-14T09:50:00.000-07:00

This is a duck. They go "quack, quack". I know this because I have a book called Quack Quack and recently Daddy bought me this a-maaazing book called Hairy Maclary and Zachary Quack. If you haven't read it, you should check it out - so many plot twists and such a happy ending and Zachary Quack is really cute and you can point at the pictures and...oh, sorry I digress.

Anyway, I went to the park with Daddy the weekend before last and guess what? There was a real actual duck there!!! I couldn't believe it. I just had to meet this duck but the question was, how?

I was dead casual about it and tried not betray my excitement.

Maybe Duck was hungry so I checked out the list of ingredients on my banana pudding - all organic and a.o.k...

"Hey Duck! Would you like some pudding? Its organic and really yummy and stuff..."

"Ok then, how about a nice big cuddle instead? Wait there! Duck? Duck! Where are you going Duck? Here Duck! Heeere DuckDuckDuck! DuckyDuckDuck...Duck? Where'd you go? Duck? Du-uck!!..."

I bet David Attenborough never has days like this.

Weekends with Daddy

2010-06-14T09:30:00.000-07:00

My Mummy works on Saturdays and Sundays so my Daddy takes me out on adventures. We go for lots of walks and fresh air and just generally hang out together and take things easy.

Last weekend Daddy took me to the park. I recently discovered the joy of swings - not only are they comfortable and relaxing but when Daddy pushes me its a total adreneline rush! I wouldn't say I was a thrill-seeker but it is nice to get the pulse racing and then just sit back and enjoy the view.

Hey Doubters!

2010-06-14T09:18:00.000-07:00

I've heard that there is a rumour going around that my blog is ghost-written...shame on you!!! I write every word and I even spell-check. This is me uploading a video clip.

I'm actually right-handed but I sometimes use my left because I'm too young for R.S.I.

In case you were wondering I don't "do" Windows - I'm all about Mac...I asked the folks for a nice shiny new I-Pad but they told me that if I really wanted one I'd have to get a job. As if being their child wasn't hard enough work! I bet all my friends at Busy Bees have one. Life is so unfair.

Big Boy stuff

2010-06-07T09:49:00.000-07:00

Surprise!!!!!!!

I'm a BIG BOY!!!I've been growing and growing since I checked in with you all last and as you can see, I can do all sorts of cool stuff. I like to have a full day and mix things up a bit - a bit of talking, a bit of reading, and I find a bit of exercise works wonders for keeping the brain active and the body in good working order. You may notice that whenever you see the folks these days they are generally sitting or lying down...I try to encourage them to keep up with me but they are well out of shape! Mummy heard someone on the radio the other day saying that having children when you're a bit older is like facing Roger Federer on Centre Court with an old wooden racquet and long pants - whoever that is!

Look at Daddy - he's fallen over with exhaustion - and Mummy's posture is nothing to be proud of! get with the programme you pair!!!
New balls please!!!

A word from our sponsors

2010-06-07T09:22:00.000-07:00

Teething is a right flamin' nightmare. One minute everythings fine and the next, my teeth are biting, biting, biting!!! :-( :-( :-(

I've got two big tooths coming through on the top and ooh can they ever sting.

Thats why I choose Bonjela Teething Gel. Bonjela brings relief, fast. When it comes to pain, think once, think twice, think Mum, get me Bonjela. (Available at Boots, Tesco and other quality retailers).

Granny Jen's Birthday

2010-06-07T08:31:00.000-07:00

Sometimes when inspiration strikes you've just got to follow your creative instincts and see where it leads you. My Granny Jen had a BIG birthday on April 21st so I just had to reach for my sketchbook. As my parents are too stingy to give me pocket money (see previous post) I had to put on my thinking cap and go freestyle with some original artwork. When it comes to art, I prefer a 'less is more' approach and prefer to make small interventions on paper following the Surrealist notion of "automatic drawing" - I just put the pencil on paper and see where it takes me. Its best not to over-think things y'know? I put my completed picture in Granny Jen's Birthday box - I haven't had any feedback yet but I hope she liked it. If not, hey! The worlds a critic...I can't help it if I'm ahead of my time.

Peepo!

2010-06-07T08:05:00.000-07:00

I've been quite busy over the past few months and I just haven't been able to keep up with my correspondence. My PA has been on extended sick leave and to be quite honest with you I have been considering terminating her contract.

This photo was taken in February/March for heaven sakes! I don't even look like this anymore! (Although I confess I do look good).

Mummy took me to visit her friends Mariko and Pedro in London and we stayed overnight in the big smoke!! I made friends with their daughter Lirio *sigh* (she's b-eaut-iful) and Matteo, although he didn't seem that bothered about me for some reason. I don't think he liked his Mummy Mariko paying me any attention. He made me laugh though because Mariko brushed his teeth on her lap and he put on his big sister's blue tights! They made me feel very welcome and we had a lovely time. There are so many lovely things to do and see in the Big Smoke but its very, very busy. I saw lots and lots of stuff I wanted to buy but Mummy didn't give me any pocket money to spend :-( One day I'm going to get a job and buy all of the important must-have items that a young boy needs from that toy shop at the bottom of Portobello Road. Until then, I'll keep dreaming and working on my CV.

Thank you Mariko for taking such good care of me and making me feel so welcome and at home - and thank you to the lovely Lirio for playing with me and reading me stories. You make me feel all dreamy inside. Ahhhhhhhh....

We apologise for the interruption to our usual service..

2010-04-16T01:44:00.000-07:00

Mum says that the "jolly interbobs" or something like that wasn't working at our house for almost a month. Then she went and started work and sent me to Cov...I mean, Busy Bees Nursery and then she got a throat and chest infection and has been more less than useless for ages! She's such a old D.Q (thats Drama Queen)!! I mean I have a snitty-snotty nose and a cold too but at least some of us can make the effort!

I've been having HEAPS of adventures - I guess thats why Mummy keeps calling me "Genghis". When she's back to normal I'll crack the whip a little harder and fill you all in on what I've been up to...

Laters potaters!

By Nayb is Michael Caine

2010-02-22T06:52:00.000-08:00

Chris lent me his glasses so that I could see clearly that I am indeed my father's son.

Meet and Greet

2010-02-22T06:18:00.000-08:00

And what do you do hairy man?

Every now and then I like to get out there and press the flesh with the man in the street. I traveled a long way to meet this one because he is a dear friend of my Mummy's and he invited us to stay for the weekend.

Never one to miss a photo opp, I happily posed for some commemorative photographs which recreated our first meeting - although with that beard it was somewhat like meeting Tarzan upon his return to Greystoke.

An appeal has been launched to raise funds to buy this man a razor and some shaving foam under my new initiative The Save Christopher Plant From Becoming a Total Beardy-Weirdy Foundation. All donations gratefully received - together we can make a difference.

Sound asleepies

2010-02-21T13:46:00.000-08:00

Can you believe she just left me there??!! That siren is probably the police coming to tell her off for leaving me in the front room and then interfering with my shut-eye.

Lots of videos to catch up on Part 1

2010-02-21T13:26:00.000-08:00

Ernie Nappy - Nappy, Ernie

Mummy finally managed to clear enough space on my computer to be able to sort my old videos out! So I've asked her if she can slowly start adding them - you can see me growing up before your very eyes....some of these are so old they were shot in 2009 - get with the programme lady, its 2010 for heavens sake!!

Sorry folks :-(

Don't know what kind of order they'll be in because they are not dated but I'll do my best to remember and talk you through it.

This video was shot before Christmas - its shows you my supercool nappies - some of them have Ernie from Sesame Street on them!!

Uh-oh!

2010-02-05T14:03:00.000-08:00

Hello.

My name is Ernie, pleased to meet ya!

Ohhh nice kitty!

Whats yourname? Liddycat?
Thats pretty...

Ooh, ooh

I wonder what happens when

I grab this??...

..where you going Liddycat?

Liddycat? Oh. No. You. Don't.
You. Are. Staying. Riiiiight
heeeere....awww Mum! What
did you make me let go for?!
Why did you suddenly put the
camera down? We were
having a lovely kitty party
weren't we Liddycat?
Liddycat? Oh, Liiidycaa-aaat!
Where'd she go???

On the move

2010-02-05T13:39:00.000-08:00

Woo-hoo!! I've finally convinced my Olds to buy me a set of wheels! I'm a busy man on the move - just don't even think about getting in my way buddy -places to go, people to see! AND I can move around like a big boy - better than walking, its got a radio that changes songs when I push the buttons, a rear view mirror and a horn...Oi! You! Getouttamyway Mummy! Beepbeep!!

Tears after tea time

2010-02-05T13:04:00.003-08:00

Remember when I said that teething was no big deal? How wrong can a man be?? It turns out this whole teething lark is really painful...these pictures were taken mere minutes before the whole world turned upside down.

This is me showing Daddy how to eat with a spoon like a big boy. Unfortunately Daddy is very messy - look at the state of me! Cute though...

Silly OLD Mummy

2010-02-05T12:47:00.000-08:00

Mummy decided to make her first snowman before she turned 40...she did it very quickly and even though it was a bit rubbish she was ridiculously proud of it. Daddy and I came out to see her being silly in the snow - we didn't stay out long because it was freezing. I think the cold made Mummy go a bit funny in the head...maybe it was just old age.

Holiday!!!!!!

2010-02-04T13:38:00.000-08:00

Mummy and Daddy and me went away on our first holiday together to celebrate the fact that my mum is really old. We stayed at a fancy country cottage in deepest Derbyshire and it was ACE. I even had the use of a highchair and I sat up like a big boy! I am such a big boy I eat big boy food from a spoon (although I sometimes have my buddy boob visit sometimes just so Mummy feels useful).

My main man Chachi came to visit - he brought his Olds to keep mine company...we weren't allowed in the outdoor hot tub though because it was too cold and we are too little apparently (surely that is discrimination against short people). They looked silly running around in the cold all wet and wearing not very much. We had a lovely log fire in the cottage and there were even chickens, cats and a horse...the big ginger cat Carrot even let me touch him!

Only problem was I didn't like the sleeping arrangements so I let Mummy sleep on the floor with me because she gets a bit scared trying to sleep in unfamiliar places. I started to get a tooth coming but it didn't hurt...don't know what all the fuss is about!

I hope we go away on holiday soon...I heard something about a caravan....whats a "caravan"? Is it yummy? :-p

More Derbyshire

2010-02-04T13:26:00.001-08:00

This is the view from Monsall Head over the old viaduct - we stayed in a really lovely little B&B about 2 minutes from here...I had been all um, blocked up shall we say for a week and the combination of the fresh air peace and quiet and the log fire just helped me relax. I think Mum and Dad nearly fainted for some reason and I heard some rumblings about whether we had bought enough wipes but after a good five minutes of constant "relaxation" on my part The Olds were in hysterics, bless 'em. I don't know what was so flippin' funny - the whole idea of going on holiday was to relax and let go of all your cares wasn't it? Sheesh...

Anyhoo, I had a bath in the biggest cast iron tub Mummy had ever seen (over 6 feet long) - Mum had a bath later on her own and she said she had had an almost "primal experience" - I don't know what that means but as if shes happy it makes life a lots easier on the Johnston men ifyouknowwhattamean...

Mum ate quite a lot of breakfast...homebaked bread, homemade compote, fresh laid eggs, Derbyshire oatcakes, fresh squeezed juice. She went a bit weird and dreamy like she'd been hypnotised.

No Trouble at Mill

2010-02-04T13:06:00.000-08:00

My Mummy and Daddy took me on holiday to Derbyshire and I had a brilliant time! Unfortunately something was wrong with Mummy's big camera so she used a really, really old one...it used fillim or something...only she didn't have much of that so she only took a few.

These were taken at Masson Mill in Matlock Bath - its a World Heritage Site and it was amaazing...we had the whole place to ourselves! Mummy panicked because she lost me and Daddy but we were just looking at all the old looms. Did you know the loom punch cards were the earliest form of what we call the computer? Me neither. I'll tell you one thing though, it sure was cold in there - especially by the river outside where I'm posing. Of course I was snuggly buggles in my trusty snow suit and hat combo - Mum and Dad, not so much...

My parents really fell in love with Derbyshire and The Peak District even though most of it was closed for Winter! I was disappointed not to go on the steam trains that Mummy and Daddy kept going on about so they better jolly well take me when the weather is warmer or there will be ructions.

The Noughties list

2010-01-08T11:47:00.000-08:00

I've been reading in the papers about all of the lists of things that were popular with people in the Noughties. I've had a think about it and here are mine:

Best song : "Heads, shoulders, knees and toes / Party in my pants" by my Mum

Sooooo funny AND educational although maybe rhyming "farty" with "party" might raise a few eyebrows...

Best book : "Hairy McLary from Donaldson's Dairy" by Lynley Dodd

This has a thumping good read and keeps me riveted page after page. In fact its such a page-turner, I just have to get involved because I can't wait to see what happens next! I must thank Mummy's friend Belinda for sending this to me. I never get tired of hearing it!

Film of the year : Ernie : The Movie

No contest. The best performance by a baby in a leading role. Great plot. Believable characters. Whats not to love?

Best toy :Bee

My Great Auntie Jean in New Zealand sent me this - Bee is ACE (even though Mummy mangled him in the steriliser) and when Mummy passes him to me in the morning I am always so happy to see him. Daddy can make him fly down to me (I think he is using magic or something) in my bouncie. Bee is cool because he fits in my hands, has lots of textures and shapes for me to handle and "test" in my mouth. He smiles at me too so I know he likes me. He sometimes comes out and surprises me when we are out and about and he makes me feel relaxed. Bee is good company. Thanks Great Auntie Jean :-)

Best friend : Boob

Sorry Chachi - no offence my there brother! You're my mate and all - no doubt! But my buddy boob has been there for me night and day through thick and thin whenever I have needed comfort and a place to lay my head.

Highpoint of the decade: Being born!!! (Christmas comes a close second)

Being alive is brilliant!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Not only that but I got to meet my Mum and Dad - they're a bit weird but they mean well! Only joking (kind of)!! We have such fun and so many adventures together.

Most mornings I wake up and see my Mummy and it makes me smile because I love her and I get to have another brilliant day singing songs, playing with my toys, getting nice clean nap-naps put on and going out of the house and exploring the world. My Daddy gives the best cuddles in the world and I always look forward to spending time with him and getting him to watch what I can do. Mummy gives the best kisses, knows all the good songs to sing and is always there to comfort me. I am very loved and I am a secure and confident little man-mans.

Mummy and Daddy also dance with me, read me stories, put me to bed, and have bath-time with me.

Best invention : The internet / my Blog

Its so amazing that I can communicate with all of my friends and loved ones anywhere in the world. Thank you for being there for me and all of the love you have sent me means so much.

Lowpoint of the year : Its a tie between injections and being forced to dress up as flippin'
Santa.

How. Humiliating.

Blessings : My Grandparents and Great Grandparents

Astor John Wallace McConnell for my middle name (next to me he was the man Mummy loved most in life AND a beautiful human being).

Granny Jen for being there for my Mum and my Dad (especially my Mum in more ways than she can express) and for looking after little me! Mummy couldn't have had me without your support you know! ;-)

Nana and Granda' for loving me so much and thinking of me and reaching out to my Mum and Dad with generosity and support when they needed it.

Grandma McConnell for being interested in me and being such an inspiration and support to my Mummy and Granny Jen. For always being on the end of the phone and having such a beautiful spirit and kind heart (and brilliant knitting fingers!)

Mac for helping Granny Jen financially and emotionally to be there for us.

Poppy and Beth for their kindness and generosity - and for the rockinest booties that got compliments and attention everywhere I went! Also, for being there for Mumma and Pop in a very difficult and trying time when Mummy and I weren't able to be. Thank you, thank you, thank you.

Mumma and Pop Rouse for being superstars, loving and supportive care-givers and staying so positive in the face of so many challenges.

Dude of the year : Unc

He wears a leather jacket and he brought Tom Waits into my life. He and I are gonna have a lottttta fun at my parents expense...I can hardly wait. ;-p

A walk in the park

2010-01-08T11:08:00.001-08:00

Crickey it was cold in Harbourne Park last Sunday...its a heck of a lot colder than it looks...so cold in fact that I had to fall asleep just to keep my strength up. We didn't stay long because it was so cold. Mummy and Daddy went for hot chocolate to try and take the chill out of their bones. Did I mention that it was really, really cold? Well, it was. Cold, that is. Very cold indeed.

The famous January 2010 cold snap

2010-01-08T10:37:00.000-08:00

Brrrrrrrrr! Its COLD out there!!! Luckily my Nana bought me this amazing snowsuit which keeps me warm even when its freezy cold. Matched up with my gorgeous new hat and mittens that Grandma bought me I am nice and toasty. In fact its so warm for me Mummy sometimes has to remove my mittens so I don't overheat!

I think we have to get a snowsuit for the Ernie-mobile. Mummy had to remove all of the snow by hand and the following day she found a row of icicles on the bottom of the car. Snow makes everything beautiful and bright and puts colour in your cheeks. It is also nice and quiet, the pace of life slows down and people build snow men and women. Mummy is nearly 40 and she has never built a snowman...I hope I don't grow up before I get to build one..that'd be so unfair.

Nana and Granny Jen Christmas combo

2010-01-08T10:15:00.000-08:00

Funky slippers + funky jim-jams =

Chillin'

I'm now able to kick back and relax
in comfort AND cuteness

Tank top buddies

2010-01-08T10:08:00.000-08:00

Who has the best one - me or my Dad?

Fashion Update!

2010-01-08T09:53:00.000-08:00

Look at my ace new hat! Bet you wish you had one just like it. Well, you can't. My Grandma in New Zealand knitted it especially for me. It is a perfect fit and keep me snuggly, buggly warm. It also has matching mittens which keep me looking super cool while keeping me super warm.

Thank you for caring Grandma!

xo

Christmas Day photos

2009-12-26T05:45:00.001-08:00

http://www.flickr.com/photos/misspennymoney/

Please double-click on the link above to see our Christmas Day photos!

xx

PS:
I had a BRILLIANT day - I was shouting out with pleasure up until 11pm when I finally passed out! I just couldn't calm down - I was too excited and over-stimulated to keep it to myself! This could possibly have been the best day of my life so far.

Mummy told Daddy that if she had to live a day of her life over and over, she wouldn't mind if it was that one. I couldn't agree more. Christmas RULES!!!! :-)

Special Christmas photo

2009-12-26T03:26:00.000-08:00

MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYBODY!

Lots of kisses and cuddles,

Ernie, Mummy and Daddy

xxxxxxxxxx
ooooooooo

In case you didn't know folks...

2009-12-23T16:50:00.000-08:00

If you double-click on the pictures, they get BIG ! Go on Grampies, give it a try!

x

Me and my Mummy

2009-12-23T09:33:00.000-08:00

Sherrie was wondering why there were so many pictures of me at her son's christening - well my cheeky mummy begged their friend Howie to take some pictures of us together using Howie's posh professional (several thousands of pounds worth of) camera - shes a camera geek and she is always moaning about the lack of nice pictures of me and Mummy together.

I look cute as a button in the cashmere jumpsuit Nana bought me and Mummy pulled out a new toy for me to keep me amused.

As a special treat there will be a special picture posted for Christmas Day for all the family from me, just because I care and I wish I could be with you. Be warned though, I look GORGEOUS!!!
I'm just catnip to ladies of a certain age y'know! Just ask my Mum...

Chachi's christening

2009-12-23T08:42:00.000-08:00

Charlie got christened a few weeks ago and he invited me along to celebrate. I'm not really sure what a christening is but Charlie sure seemed full of the holy spirit after a man in a big dress poured water all over his head.

I met some very nice people and Charlie looked all grown up in his suit - Mum think the shot with him and the cucumber stick reminds her of a young Al Pacino (whoever he is). Everyone was all dressed up and looking fancy - especially Chachi's mum - shes very pretty and was very proud of her big man on his big day. She did all the catering and managed to stay beautiful and even-tempered! My mum couldn't do that!!

Best of all, Charlie's soul has totally been saved from eternal damnation! AND he'll get to go to that cute school next to the church! Way to totally get educated and thwart Satan dude!!! ;-)

Christmas shopping cuteness

2009-12-17T15:18:00.000-08:00

Me and my Mum have a right old laugh wherever we go - Mum makes me giggle and squeal but shes always laughing her head off and being silly - thats because I'm FUNNY! I've been practicing standing up like a big boy and when I concentrate really hard I have to stick my tongue out. When I think I've done something special, I stick my tongue out. Most of the time I just go about my bidness smiling and laughing but when Daddy's there for me to show off to well...I stick my tongue out. You're seeing what my Daddy sees. I love it when he watches me. Hes a big boy too and he likes to notice me and smile back.

Christmas shopping is brilliant - when we were in HMV it was awfully loud so I just laid back and got some shut-eye. It snowed today and although I didn't get to see it, it was jolly cold. Mummy got me a rockin' new hat which actually fits my head (its size 18-24 months - I've got a big head because of all the brains) which was an early Chrissie pressie from Granny Jen. I look like a tree-hugging lumberjack (I heart trees, remember)! Its enormous but its soooooo snuggly warm :-)

There were a lot of shopping bags I wasn't allowed to look in - I wonder what was inside??? We took some time out and the old folks had mince pies and I had a Christmas boob! Ho-ho-ho!!!

Full of Christmas spirit (hic!)

2009-12-17T15:09:00.000-08:00

Has anybody seen my Dad???

I don't know who this guy is but he came to my house late one night when Daddy was at the office Christmas party and tried to kiss my mum. I think he must have been ill because he wasn't very steady on his feet. Maybe he was a reindeer because he has googly brown eyes and a red, shiny nose.

I'm a big boy!

2009-12-17T15:02:00.001-08:00

I know you all still think of me as a little baby but actually I am a great biiiiiiiiiig man-mans!! AND I can wear shoes. I'm all in velour because its cold out there!

Miracle on Milner Rd!

2009-11-05T08:06:00.001-08:00

This is my magic room. When the sun shines in just the right way loads of tiny rainbows come out to play with me. I hope that there is a magic room in our new house...

Yo McFrancis family gabba gabba !

2009-11-05T06:31:00.000-08:00

A couple of weeks ago Mummy took me to visit Pip,Finn and Seth. I had a bath there because our boiler was on the blink and Finn helped me get dry and helped put my clothes on. Seth shared his toys with me and gave me some fashion tips (he's a bit of a style icon for boys like me).

Pip made yummy raspberry muffins - I assume they were yummy as I'm too little to have any but there were squabbles over how many muffins were allowed to be eaten and fierce debate over whether any should be left for Ian when he got home.

A splendid afternoon all in all - I had lovely cuddles with Pip too. I love visiting the "Mc-Francis" family of a Sunday afternoon. They're way more fun than the "McC-Johnstons"! They even gave me some toys so maybe I can get a little more play action around here (hint, hint Mum and Dad!). I can scarcely dare to dream...

Owwwwwwwwwwwwww!!!!!!!!!!!! :-( Part 2

2009-11-05T06:19:00.000-08:00

That nasty lady at the doctors surgery made me cry again...I overheard her tell Mummy that I have to go back again in 4 weeks and have 3 more next time. Not if I have any say in the matter!!

I was so upset that Mummy had to give me Calpol to help me sleep it off. It really hurt me and I don't understand why :-(

Me and my buddy Charlie

2009-10-29T15:58:00.000-07:00

This is me and my buddy Charlie. He's a little bit older than me but like his Mum Sherries says, age and nothin' but a number and anyways soon enough the 5 months separating us won't make any difference... Charlie is a cool dude with a good sense of humour and generous to a fault - he's given me heaps of really cool things and as you can see he is good at sharing! He is my first little dude buddy and we are gonna have heaps of adventures together : when we start walking man, there'll be no stoppin' us. He teaches me all the cool stuff like how to 'gimme five'...we'll probably be blood brothers and have our own special gang handshake one day. Its always good to see him and I think maybe Mummy and Sherrie should be friends so they aren't in our faces cramping our style. They really need to get out more...

Charlie's Bumbo seat

2009-10-29T15:52:00.000-07:00

Can I have one Mum pleeeeeaase?? Its so comfy and I can sit up like a big boy!

Vital Statistics as of 13/10/09

2009-10-29T15:44:00.000-07:00

61.5 cm
14lb 4oz
100% gorgeous

Short clips from Daddy's phone

2009-10-13T12:27:00.000-07:00

So many clips, so short in length...as you can see I'm a chatty little man. Mummy and Daddy think my voice is the most beautiful thing they have ever heard. I'm really loving to make sounds at the moment - the sound of my own voice is fascinating. I practice being loud and singing...yesterday Mummy caught me trying to talk to a table.

Mummy and I chat all the time and I tell her lots and lots of things about my day (just in case she missed them or had forgotten about them). Most of the time I'm a very happy chappie and I talk to people when I am in a good mood. Sometimes I take a break from my friend boob and tell Mummy how much fun I am having...that can take up to ten minutes when I'm having a good day! When I am tired I make one heck of a racket!! Luckily Mummy and Daddy come and soothe me and once I get to bed with boob all to myself I can kick back, relax and get some shut-eye. I'm not a complicated guy. You just have to listen.

Ernie Fashion October 2009 Part III - My First Fashion Shoot!

2009-10-10T04:17:00.001-07:00

Hoodie Gap (from Mariko)
Onesie M&S (from Nana)
Socks Gap (from Mummy)

Shot on location outside 106 May lane, Kings Heath, Birmingham in my car seat in my Mummy's Renault Kangoo whilst waiting for an estate agent.

Ernie Fashion October 2009 Part II

2009-10-10T04:03:00.001-07:00

As I may have already told you "I heart trees" and heres the proof. Daddy got this for me before I was even born. He must be psychic because I do heart trees - a lot! They fascinate me.

Anyhoo, this is me having a bit of chillaxation in my bouncie.

top: H &M
leggings: American Apparel
socks: GapKids

Ernie Fashion October 2009 Part I

2009-10-10T03:35:00.001-07:00

Its starting to get chilly in old Blighty. On a recent trip to Berkswell it got cold so I was able to get my trusty favourite hat out of my change bag to keep my head and ears warm. My Great-Grandma knitted this especially for me and I love it. Mummy likes to push it around my head to give me various looks - this is the "McMurphy".

My Great-Grandma is very special - she knitted matching booties which I have now outgrown. I have inherited the McConnell family curse - and my Poppy has HOOOOOOJ feet too so I guess I'm going to get through plenty of footwear. I wish Mummy had taken a picture of me in those booties because I looked cute in my knitted hat and boot combo. Silly Mummy - again!!!

Ernie Fashion September 2009

2009-10-10T03:15:00.001-07:00

This September was all about a cool blue and white palette with bright accents.

This little onesie came courtesy of my great uncle and aunt from New Zealand, John and Diane. It has buses, cars and taxis printed on it and even though they had never met me they got the colours just right for my complexion. The striped bib is just for fun but it picks up the colours of my blue eyes and any assorted dribbles and sickies that may happen along the way.

Ernie Fashion August 2009

2009-10-10T03:00:00.000-07:00

Look what my Poppy bought me! All the way from New Zealand, these funky bootees have been getting me a lot of attention. Other Mummy's and random old ladies comment on them all the time. I'm a regular old chick magnet whenever I wear these! Whatever I am wearing, these babies always keep my look bang up to date. They look particularly effective with my little robot onesie don't you think?
I think this whole look shows off my legs to good effect - if you've got it, flaunt it, right?

Unc Part II

2009-10-09T13:55:00.000-07:00

Unc had to leave on the Sunday but when the "super-memory masters" (my olds) finally managed to leave the house half the day had gone...sheesh! I mean how long does it take to have breakfast and read a newspaper anyway??!

We drove to Kenilworth to have a look at the castle - it was £7 each to get into the grounds so we walked around the outside...

...where the gate was too small for my pushchair so Daddy and Unc had to dismantle my pushchair to get me out of there. Just as Daddy was putting my seat back in a massive dog came bounding over and...

...slobbered all over Daddy <chuckle>

This is the only photo I have of me with Unc because silly Mummy didn't manage to take one that wasn't all blurry - this one is not much better. Hopefully I'll have some more "photo-opps" with Unc soon. Us Johnston men have got to stick together...

Unc also has a chapter in Mummy's good books because he did the dishes and he sent us flowers through Interflora to say "thank you" for the weekend - even though Mummy and Daddy were RUBBISH! Now thats what I call manners. I can respect that.

My Unc came to see me Part 1

2009-10-09T12:37:00.001-07:00

I finally met my Uncle James - or "Unc" as we refer to him around here. Silly Mummy didn't think to take a picture until the day after he arrived. Here we are at the Victorian Tea Rooms : the waitresses made a fuss of me but I just wasn't in the mood for papparazzi bothering me while I was trying to have a meal with the family. Gimme a break, y'know?

I felt sorry for Unc because my olds were up to their usual tricks again and he had to trail around saving them from themselves (a lost parking ticket at the airport, a broken mobile phone that needed replacing, car keys left across town...). I just let 'em get on with it.

Owwwwwwwwwwwwww!!!!!!!!!!!! :-(

2009-09-30T07:00:00.000-07:00

BEFORE: I had been enjoying a lovely day: 40 minutes in my gym listening to the sounds of the rainforest and practicing my 'reach and grab', did a standing up and tummy crunch work-out, had a bit of tummy time and a nice bath with Mummy. When she suggested we went for a walk I had no idea what horrors were awaiting me. The lady in the picture seemed really nice but then she made Mummy hold me tight and then...

AFTER: ...she really hurt me. I screamed and bawled and got really upset - almost inconsolable. I have never experienced pain before. Its really horrible. Mummy was very upset too and the horrible nurse lady kept asking her if she was okay...I wouldn't stop crying so Mummy took me to a vacant examination room and soothed me with a feed. I had tears in my eyes the whole time - so did Mummy.

Apparently I had two injections in my legs to protect me from nasties...it didn't prevent me feeling miserable and sad all night. I cried and screamed on and off until finally (about half 10 and after another bath with Mummy) I ran out of steam and fell asleep being fed in Mummy's arms under Daddy's concerned and watchful eye.

Injections are RUBBISH :-( !!!

I heart trees...

2009-09-27T04:44:00.000-07:00

This was taken at Waseley Country Park. I was asleep and didn't even know we had gone there and I woke up in a howling bad mood absolutely flippin' starving Mummy and Daddy took me to have a snack in the woods out of the sun. I forgot my troubles for five minutes - the light coming through the trees made me gape in wonder. It was so quiet and peaceful. A man could get used to dining al fresco if he could have a picnic in the woods more often.

Oi! You two! Leave it out!

2009-09-27T04:41:00.000-07:00

My Mummy and Daddy love me very much...I have to be very patient with them. They don't give me a moments peace.

At last!

2009-09-27T04:38:00.000-07:00

A picture of me and my Granda...don't we look cute together?

Bathtime with Mummy

2009-09-17T02:57:00.001-07:00

My friend Charlie gave me this cool floaty thing when he had finished with it...I can use it to float safely in the big bath with Mummy and Daddy. Once I got the hang of it I really enjoyed it. Mummy and Daddy are trying to teach me how to splash. They are going to buy me some bath toys when I can sit up - I can hardly wait...hang on a cotton-pickin' minute Mum! Did you have to publish one with my bits and pieces on display?! I don't think anyone reeeally needs to see my noo-noo!! Yeah okay, I guess I do look kind of adorable. Maybe you have a point.

Lots and lots of beautiful smiles!

2009-09-17T02:18:00.000-07:00

Mummy thought you might like to see some of my smiles ...I only laugh when I'm asleep for some reason.

If you think that's cute, you should hear me talk!

Nana and Granda's visit

2009-09-14T04:27:00.000-07:00

My Nana and Granda came to visit me all the way from Northern Ireland!

Poor Granda was poorly when he arrived so we let him have a sleep and I met my Nana and greeted her with lots of great big smiles :-) We went to Pizza Express - they had pizza and I stuck with my friend boob.

The next day Granda was all better and we went out for the day to Compton Verney. Granda pushed my pram...

We had a nice lunch - the restaurant had a new menu. Mummy had soup and everyone else had mushrooms in cream on brioche. I had a bottle which Daddy fed me. They were naughty and had pudding - Daddy shared a sticky toffee pudding with Mummy (he said it was the best he had ever tasted) and my grampies shared some local ice-cream.

I slept through the exhibition of English Folk Art but we had a nice walk in the sun afterwards and I got to wear the stylish sunhat that Mariko bought me.

The next day we met up in town and went for lunch at the Edwardian Tea Rooms in The Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery. I didn't eat any of the expensive food - Nana fed me my bot-bott so Mummy could eat her lunch in peace.

We walked around the old paintings in the Museum but I found it very boring so I voiced my displeasure. Nana and Daddy tried to comfort me and it worked for a bit...we went for afternoon tea at Hudsons and Mummy gave me a big feed in between trying to stuff a cream tea in her mouth. I was the centre of attention all day so that was good.

Granda took some photos on Daddy's camera so Granny Jen could have a more up-to-date family portrait. (Daddy will have to help me with my blog as he needs to update it with his photos). Mummy realised that Granda hadn't cuddled me yet and so I had a nice cuddle with him although I was a bit windy after such a big feed I hope he enjoyed it even if I seemed a bit niggly. My tummy gives me a bit of gyp sometimes!

I was sorry to see Nana and Granda go and maybe I can visit with them again soon. Nana will be back in November so I can have some more "Nana-cuddles" then.

Look who I visited!

2009-09-01T11:40:00.000-07:00

On the way back from Compton Verney I stopped into Sara and Matt's because I was a bit peckish.
Sara was very funny but Matt made fun of my hair and Mummy got cross...

...we went to see Pip, Ian, Finn and Seth the next day and they made an amazing BBQ feast for us all (although I stuck with my friend Boob) - Sara, Matt and Katy were there too. Sara made an amazing butterscotch pudding which made Finn and Seth go skippy with sugar. We watched Yo Gabba Gabba and had great fun - it was all about robots!

Ian made funny " boogla-boogla" noises and bounced me on his knee. Finn rocked me in my bouncie and Seth told me he wanted me to be his friend when I am big enough to play with him. Pip cuddled me and rocked me off to sleep in her arms - she is a professional...unfortunately the batteries in Mummy's camera ran out so she didn't take any pictures :-( Matt made fun of my hair again and Mummy got cross...

Thanks to the McKnight-Francis clan and all our friends for a wonderful day.

Me and my Daddy

2009-09-01T03:33:00.001-07:00

Compton Ernie II

2009-09-01T02:53:00.000-07:00

Another reason to love Katy - she took some photos of me and Mummy!

Compton Ernie

2009-09-01T02:25:00.000-07:00

On the Friday, Mummy's friend Katy Connor came up from Devon to stay...she made a spaceship put of some wrapping paper and kept me enthralled for hours. She also fed me and rocked me to sleep...then the next day Mummy drove us all to Compton Verney which is an amazing art gallery set in an enormous country estate.

Katy asked if she could carry me in my boing-boing. As you can see, I was quite happy to go with her.

She is lovely and when I'm older she'll probably be my girlfriend.

Blimmin' baby acne :-(

2009-08-26T07:44:00.000-07:00

I'm not even a teenager yet and already I've got flippin' acne!

It was all red and nasty and my folks were a bit worried for a while. Thankfully I've been to the doctor and got some cream and Mum washes my face with a cotton ball soaked in cool water twice a day so that it has started to get a lot better.

I've got some photos on flickr so you can see how I'm looking and what I've been up to. The address is:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/misspennymoney

Come and see!

Sweet new ride

2009-08-26T04:56:00.000-07:00

I've got a sweet new ride - the ERNIE-MOBILE!!!

You can almost see it in this picture - I go in the back seat, Daddy sits next to me, my buggy goes in the boot and Mum drives us around on all our adventures...I've already been to Wolverhampton (woo-hoo?!) three times in the past week to help Mummy set up her MA show.

Boing-boing

2009-08-26T04:29:00.000-07:00

My mate Charlie outgrew his boing-boing so he gave it to me.

Now my Daddy can take me out for some fresh air.

One day I hope to be able to see where I'm going.

You may also notice that I am wearing my new hoodie - none of my new clothes fit me yet so Mummy bought me this to keep me warm...

Mummy normally cries when she sees me in big boy's clothes because she thinks I'm growing up too fast but at least I won't look out of place when I'm hanging around Selly Park. All I need now are some sovereigns and a mobile phone...I just need to figure out a way to get my olds to buy them for me...

More overseas visitors!

2009-08-26T03:45:00.000-07:00

Flippin' 'eck, they're coming from everywhere!

Last week my second cousin Leslie came to visit me all the way from Washington.

We had a lovely day together and I took her to the Kitchen Garden Cafe (they don't mind if Mummy feeds me in there). I got a bit over-excited and knocked over a glass of water!

It was really nice to see her (even though I slept through most of it) and she brought me a really gorgeous sweater from Edinburgh from one of the stalls at the Festival. We were very sorry to see her go. I would love to go and see her in Washington DC but my folks are too poor :-(

Hopefully we'll catch up in New Zealand when I go on holiday to see Granny Jen, Poppy and my Great-Grandies...

Welcome!

2009-08-26T03:00:00.000-07:00

A lot of people from all over the world want to know what I'm doing, where I'm doing it and who I'm doing it with...

People ask after me all the time and being a busy, on-the-move little man, its hard for me to keep up with my everyone, so Mum agreed to help me set up my own blog. That way, you can globally access all things Ernie at any hour of the day or night.

I hope to regularly post news and pictures and occasionally the odd video so you can see what I have been up to - I'm not getting any smaller you know!

Ernie Wallace Johnston
xx00