Saturday, December 10, 2011
In the drawer.
For the last couple months Baby J has been playing with all the pans in the under oven drawer. It's his favorite source of entertainment while Momma is cooking. Today he officially claimed the drawer as his!
Wednesday, December 7, 2011
2012's resolution
While surfing the world wide web I came across this.
Super cool photo album
It made me start thinking about what it would be like to look back over a year and see a photo from each and every day.
Being as it's December and the New Year is just around the corner... This photo album became my resolution inspiration!
Taking pictures is definitely not a challenge to me, I love photography Photography Blog Plug and usually end up taking too many (is there such thing as too many?!) photos. The challenge of this resolution is that I would be a forced to take a picture EACH day, even on the boring blah days when I think there is nothing worth photographing. The other challenge will be to only choose ONE photo from the really awesome days that contain so much fun and activity it's hard to decide on which ONE photo captures it best.
I can be bad about sticking to something for an extended period of time (I just get burnt out) so I can't help but be a little nervous that I'll get half way through March and stop. But I really will try to power through. Maybe if I know there are friends and family waiting to see what photo will pop up next it will give the push I need to keep snapping and posting.
Super cool photo album
It made me start thinking about what it would be like to look back over a year and see a photo from each and every day.
Being as it's December and the New Year is just around the corner... This photo album became my resolution inspiration!
Taking pictures is definitely not a challenge to me, I love photography Photography Blog Plug and usually end up taking too many (is there such thing as too many?!) photos. The challenge of this resolution is that I would be a forced to take a picture EACH day, even on the boring blah days when I think there is nothing worth photographing. The other challenge will be to only choose ONE photo from the really awesome days that contain so much fun and activity it's hard to decide on which ONE photo captures it best.
I can be bad about sticking to something for an extended period of time (I just get burnt out) so I can't help but be a little nervous that I'll get half way through March and stop. But I really will try to power through. Maybe if I know there are friends and family waiting to see what photo will pop up next it will give the push I need to keep snapping and posting.
Thursday, November 24, 2011
Giving of Thanks!
This year (and every year) I am thankful for so many things.
1. MM who works so hard to provide for his family. A man who is constantly trying to improve himself, making him a better man, husband, and father. He is not perfect, but he is perfect for me, he is all mine, and I love every bit of him. I know how lucky I am to have married a true friend. I look back lovingly on the last 12 years that he has been in my life and I look forward to the future as we continue to grow, learn, and change together, creating memories along the way and today I enjoy him.
2. Baby J who is the the smartest, sweetest, funniest, cutest little boy in the world and I GET to be his momma. It is amazing what a child can do to your heart and home. Everything changes and sometimes I am guilty of talking too much about the long nights, messes, and cries. And not talking enough about the way my heart is filled up with a feeling I have never known. One that makes me more joyful than anything in this world ever has. The way I am completely fascinated by this tiny creature I created out of pure love. He makes me smile, laugh, and feel pride multiple times every single day. Babies are nothing but a blessing!
3. Family, both mine by birth and by marriage. I feel very fortunate to have so many caring people in my life. I wish I could be sitting around a table with everyone at the same time, able to look into the face of each relative who means so much to me. My furry relatives are included in this group too... you can't think I would leave my Ruby girl princess head or little Wrigley bear out.
4. Friends, old ones, new ones, close ones, and ones who are oceans away. Friends are an amazing gift and as I grow older I recognize the difference between the people I have "hung out" with and the ones I have shared true friendship and connection with. Friends love you through it all; even when they don't agree with you, even when they are not happy with you, they continue to love and want the best for you. True friends really are the family we choose for ourselves.
5. Health, not only mine, but my husband's and son's too. There are so many functions of the body that are taken for granted until that function has problems. So to my eyes for seeing, my ears for hearing, my heart for pumping, and for all the other amazing things my body is doing every second I am alive... I am grateful.
6. Lastly and most importantly I am thankful for the mercy and grace my God has poured out on me. Sending a Savior to save me from myself and for always, always, always being there, even when I think He isn't.
Let the peace of Christ keep you in tune with each other. And cultivate thankfulness- so sing, sing your hearts out to God. Let every detail in your lives—words, actions, whatever—be done in the name of Jesus, thanking God every step of the way.
1. MM who works so hard to provide for his family. A man who is constantly trying to improve himself, making him a better man, husband, and father. He is not perfect, but he is perfect for me, he is all mine, and I love every bit of him. I know how lucky I am to have married a true friend. I look back lovingly on the last 12 years that he has been in my life and I look forward to the future as we continue to grow, learn, and change together, creating memories along the way and today I enjoy him.
2. Baby J who is the the smartest, sweetest, funniest, cutest little boy in the world and I GET to be his momma. It is amazing what a child can do to your heart and home. Everything changes and sometimes I am guilty of talking too much about the long nights, messes, and cries. And not talking enough about the way my heart is filled up with a feeling I have never known. One that makes me more joyful than anything in this world ever has. The way I am completely fascinated by this tiny creature I created out of pure love. He makes me smile, laugh, and feel pride multiple times every single day. Babies are nothing but a blessing!
3. Family, both mine by birth and by marriage. I feel very fortunate to have so many caring people in my life. I wish I could be sitting around a table with everyone at the same time, able to look into the face of each relative who means so much to me. My furry relatives are included in this group too... you can't think I would leave my Ruby girl princess head or little Wrigley bear out.
4. Friends, old ones, new ones, close ones, and ones who are oceans away. Friends are an amazing gift and as I grow older I recognize the difference between the people I have "hung out" with and the ones I have shared true friendship and connection with. Friends love you through it all; even when they don't agree with you, even when they are not happy with you, they continue to love and want the best for you. True friends really are the family we choose for ourselves.
5. Health, not only mine, but my husband's and son's too. There are so many functions of the body that are taken for granted until that function has problems. So to my eyes for seeing, my ears for hearing, my heart for pumping, and for all the other amazing things my body is doing every second I am alive... I am grateful.
6. Lastly and most importantly I am thankful for the mercy and grace my God has poured out on me. Sending a Savior to save me from myself and for always, always, always being there, even when I think He isn't.
Let the peace of Christ keep you in tune with each other. And cultivate thankfulness- so sing, sing your hearts out to God. Let every detail in your lives—words, actions, whatever—be done in the name of Jesus, thanking God every step of the way.
Thursday, November 10, 2011
November 7-10
Monday, November 7th:
My favorite part of the day would have to be group time this evening, we host a Quest church small group at our house on Monday evenings. Currently we are studying 1 John, having a different person lead each week. This week we talked about some touchy issues and experienced varying opinions. But I am so thankful for a group of strong believing friends who are respectful enough to listen to everyone's thoughts and feelings while always trying to guide the group by the Word of God. Growing in my Christian faith is not always easy and sometimes it actually hurts, but in the end it always makes me a better person with a deeper love for my Savior. And that equals joy.
Tuesday, November 8th:
The best part of today was hanging out with my friend Mandy. Her and I met, by complete chance, at a church MM & I visited once. I was bold enough to invite her to lunch and she was kind enough to accept and we have been friends ever since. We are both newish moms and we love getting together to drink coffee and girl talk while our babes play together. And by play together I mean that her little girl runs circles around Baby J, but it keeps him entertained.
Wednesday, November 9th:
My happiest moment today was sitting down the couch with MM and relaxing. Baby J is teething and he has a small cold so he has been a little fussy and quite clingy. I love him to death and don't mind cuddling him every minute of the day, but it sure makes it hard to get anything else that needs to be done, done. At the end of the day when we put him in his crib, I was happy to kick my feet up with a glass of wine and be engaged in some adult conversation.
Thursday, November 10th:
My happiest moment of today (so far at least because I am writing this earlier in the evening than normal) was the hour or so that Baby J and I spent playing in his room today. I read him stories, we played with his stuffed animals, he climbed all over me like a jungle gym, and I was able to get giggles out of him.
A notable event from today: Baby J ate dog food. And I am afraid he liked it, or at least didn't mind it. Baby J likes to get into the dogs' bowls if I am not careful or quick enough. Today I had forgotten about them and he had a great time throwing little food kernels all over the dining room. As I cleaned up the mess I noticed he was eating something.
My favorite part of the day would have to be group time this evening, we host a Quest church small group at our house on Monday evenings. Currently we are studying 1 John, having a different person lead each week. This week we talked about some touchy issues and experienced varying opinions. But I am so thankful for a group of strong believing friends who are respectful enough to listen to everyone's thoughts and feelings while always trying to guide the group by the Word of God. Growing in my Christian faith is not always easy and sometimes it actually hurts, but in the end it always makes me a better person with a deeper love for my Savior. And that equals joy.
Tuesday, November 8th:
The best part of today was hanging out with my friend Mandy. Her and I met, by complete chance, at a church MM & I visited once. I was bold enough to invite her to lunch and she was kind enough to accept and we have been friends ever since. We are both newish moms and we love getting together to drink coffee and girl talk while our babes play together. And by play together I mean that her little girl runs circles around Baby J, but it keeps him entertained.
Wednesday, November 9th:
My happiest moment today was sitting down the couch with MM and relaxing. Baby J is teething and he has a small cold so he has been a little fussy and quite clingy. I love him to death and don't mind cuddling him every minute of the day, but it sure makes it hard to get anything else that needs to be done, done. At the end of the day when we put him in his crib, I was happy to kick my feet up with a glass of wine and be engaged in some adult conversation.
Thursday, November 10th:
My happiest moment of today (so far at least because I am writing this earlier in the evening than normal) was the hour or so that Baby J and I spent playing in his room today. I read him stories, we played with his stuffed animals, he climbed all over me like a jungle gym, and I was able to get giggles out of him.
A notable event from today: Baby J ate dog food. And I am afraid he liked it, or at least didn't mind it. Baby J likes to get into the dogs' bowls if I am not careful or quick enough. Today I had forgotten about them and he had a great time throwing little food kernels all over the dining room. As I cleaned up the mess I noticed he was eating something.
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
playing catch up after a busy weekend [11.03.11 - 11.06.11]
Thursday, November 3rd:
To be honest so much as happened over this past weekend that I can't really remember Thursday, so I can't really pick a happiest moment. I can say that I on Thursday evenings we have Financial Peace University class from 7-9pm and we are both really enjoying it. Some of the concepts we were already implementing, but the class has helped MM & I to really focus, set goals, and head in the same direction. FPU class makes me pretty happy. I respect Dave Ramsey and his advice/opinions.
Friday, November 4th:
We packed up and headed south today. The drive was beautiful with all the trees changing colors. We checked into our hotel and met up with Matt and Sheila. [MM's brother and sister-in-law] Once downtown we stopped for a high carbohydrate lunch in the "City Market" area. All runners must be registered for the race by Friday evening at the expo center of Savannah. We waited in a long line for over an hour to catch a ferry to the expo which sits right across the river. The weather was originally forecasted to be calm, sunny, and 70s. It was cloudy, windy, and a cool 50 degrees instead.
My happiest moment of today was arriving to the Health Expo, checking in to receive my bib {Runner #7095} swag bag, and sweet marathon tech tee! It made the marathon feel more real to have all my gear and know that the next day I would be trying to conquer a lifelong goal!
Saturday, November 5th:
MARATHON DAY!!!
5am: woke-up, ate breakfast, dressed in layers and gathered running gear.
545am: caught shuttle from hotel to starting line area.
645am: With our gear checked and our trash bags on we found out waiting area, corral 7.
725am: National Anthem for the 23,000 runners
730am: Wave 1 starts... Corral 7 started at 737am.
Miles 1-13 were awesome!!! MM and I both felt great! We made the rookie mistake of running faster than we had trained to run. We were caught up in the atmosphere and excitement. There were so many runners filing the road, spectators lined the streets with signs and balloons cheering us on, and because it was a Rock N Roll event there were bands playing every mile or so. The prettiest part of the run was from Mile 7-11; where we ran through some of the older downtown areas with big southern homes and oak trees covered in Spanish moss creating a canopy above us. Mile 14-16 we began to tire, we were settled into the race, some of the excitement wearing off and I was getting hungry. Mile 17 I started to hit my "wall". All marathon runners know about the wall. The wall is not a fun place to be. I just felt exhausted as if all my energy was gone, yet I knew I still had 9 miles left to run which was mentally challenging. At Mile 18 I cramped up, mostly in my left calf muscle. MM slowed back with me while I fought through these couple of miles. He was supportive and motivating, reminding me to put one foot in front of the other. By Mile 19 I was breaking through the wall and feeling stronger. Miles 20-24 were a different kind of challenge. This leg of the race as on a highway running into the wind. It was long, boring, and physically hard. Marshall hit his wall in this area, he felt light-headed and weak. I slowed to stay with him and he fought through it. At mile 25 we finally exited the dreaded highway portion. I can't describe to you how much we hated that part of the race! Mile 25 was still hard, but better because we knew we were approaching the end, completion finally looked like a reality. When we hit Mile 26 we rounded a corner and there was a 2/10 of a mile stretch filled with cheering crowds, blaring music, and a huge finish line banner. We kicked it in and finished strong, holding hands as we crossed the finish line, both so proud of our accomplishment!!!!
Matt and Sheila started in Corral 5 and ran a faster pace, because they were already finished they were able to loop back up and watch MM & I cross the finish line! It was great having familiar faces cheer for us!
Post Race:
Medals. Photos. Mylar Wrap. Iced Knees. Tylenol. Bananas & Bagels. Live Music. Free Beer!
A shout out goes to Matt for completing his 2nd marathon and to Sheila who set her personal best time. We loved being able to share this experience them. Way to go Jordans!!!
That night I treated myself to lots of food and some celebratory wine!
Sunday, November 6th:
My favorite part of today was eating lunch at Paula Deen's Restaurant (Lady & Sons) with Papaw & Gigi and the McChrystal Family. Family, friends, and delicious fried chicken!!! Mmmmm
To be honest so much as happened over this past weekend that I can't really remember Thursday, so I can't really pick a happiest moment. I can say that I on Thursday evenings we have Financial Peace University class from 7-9pm and we are both really enjoying it. Some of the concepts we were already implementing, but the class has helped MM & I to really focus, set goals, and head in the same direction. FPU class makes me pretty happy. I respect Dave Ramsey and his advice/opinions.
Friday, November 4th:
We packed up and headed south today. The drive was beautiful with all the trees changing colors. We checked into our hotel and met up with Matt and Sheila. [MM's brother and sister-in-law] Once downtown we stopped for a high carbohydrate lunch in the "City Market" area. All runners must be registered for the race by Friday evening at the expo center of Savannah. We waited in a long line for over an hour to catch a ferry to the expo which sits right across the river. The weather was originally forecasted to be calm, sunny, and 70s. It was cloudy, windy, and a cool 50 degrees instead.
My happiest moment of today was arriving to the Health Expo, checking in to receive my bib {Runner #7095} swag bag, and sweet marathon tech tee! It made the marathon feel more real to have all my gear and know that the next day I would be trying to conquer a lifelong goal!
Saturday, November 5th:
MARATHON DAY!!!
5am: woke-up, ate breakfast, dressed in layers and gathered running gear.
545am: caught shuttle from hotel to starting line area.
645am: With our gear checked and our trash bags on we found out waiting area, corral 7.
725am: National Anthem for the 23,000 runners
730am: Wave 1 starts... Corral 7 started at 737am.
Miles 1-13 were awesome!!! MM and I both felt great! We made the rookie mistake of running faster than we had trained to run. We were caught up in the atmosphere and excitement. There were so many runners filing the road, spectators lined the streets with signs and balloons cheering us on, and because it was a Rock N Roll event there were bands playing every mile or so. The prettiest part of the run was from Mile 7-11; where we ran through some of the older downtown areas with big southern homes and oak trees covered in Spanish moss creating a canopy above us. Mile 14-16 we began to tire, we were settled into the race, some of the excitement wearing off and I was getting hungry. Mile 17 I started to hit my "wall". All marathon runners know about the wall. The wall is not a fun place to be. I just felt exhausted as if all my energy was gone, yet I knew I still had 9 miles left to run which was mentally challenging. At Mile 18 I cramped up, mostly in my left calf muscle. MM slowed back with me while I fought through these couple of miles. He was supportive and motivating, reminding me to put one foot in front of the other. By Mile 19 I was breaking through the wall and feeling stronger. Miles 20-24 were a different kind of challenge. This leg of the race as on a highway running into the wind. It was long, boring, and physically hard. Marshall hit his wall in this area, he felt light-headed and weak. I slowed to stay with him and he fought through it. At mile 25 we finally exited the dreaded highway portion. I can't describe to you how much we hated that part of the race! Mile 25 was still hard, but better because we knew we were approaching the end, completion finally looked like a reality. When we hit Mile 26 we rounded a corner and there was a 2/10 of a mile stretch filled with cheering crowds, blaring music, and a huge finish line banner. We kicked it in and finished strong, holding hands as we crossed the finish line, both so proud of our accomplishment!!!!
Matt and Sheila started in Corral 5 and ran a faster pace, because they were already finished they were able to loop back up and watch MM & I cross the finish line! It was great having familiar faces cheer for us!
Post Race:
Medals. Photos. Mylar Wrap. Iced Knees. Tylenol. Bananas & Bagels. Live Music. Free Beer!
That night I treated myself to lots of food and some celebratory wine!
Sunday, November 6th:
My favorite part of today was eating lunch at Paula Deen's Restaurant (Lady & Sons) with Papaw & Gigi and the McChrystal Family. Family, friends, and delicious fried chicken!!! Mmmmm
Monday, November 7, 2011
Savannah Rock n' Roll Marathon Weekend
Friday, November 4th:
We packed up and headed south today. The drive was beautiful with all the trees changing colors. We checked into our hotel and met up with Matt and Sheila. [MM's brother and sister-in-law] Once downtown we stopped for a high carbohydrate lunch in the "City Market" area. All runners had to be registered for the race by Friday evening at the expo center of Savannah. We waited in a long line for over an hour to catch a ferry to the expo which sits right across the river. The weather was originally forecasted to be calm, sunny, and 70s. It was cloudy, windy, and a cool 50 degrees instead.
My happiest moment of today was arriving to the Health Expo, checking in to receive my bib {Runner #7095} swag bag, and sweet marathon tech tee! It made the marathon feel more real to have all my gear and knowing that the next day I would be trying to conquer a lifelong goal!
Saturday, November 5th:
MARATHON DAY!!!
5am: woke-up, ate breakfast, dressed in layers and gathered running gear.
545am: caught shuttle from hotel to starting line area.
645am: With our gear checked and our trash bags on we found our waiting area, corral 7.
725am: National Anthem for the 23,000 runners
730am: Wave 1 starts... Corral 7 started at 737am.
Miles 1-13 were awesome!!! MM and I both felt great! We made the rookie mistake of running faster than we had trained to run. We were caught up in the atmosphere and excitement. There were so many runners filing the road, spectators lined the streets with signs and balloons cheering us on, and because it was a Rock N Roll event there were bands playing every mile or so. The prettiest part of the run was from Mile 7-11; we ran through some of the older downtown areas that had big southern homes and oak trees covered in Spanish moss creating a canopy about us. We found our friend Wade at Mile 8. His wife was there taking photos and while we stopped to have her take ours, he came up on us! Mile 14-16 we began to tire, we were settled into the race, some of the excitement was wearing off and I was getting hungry. Mile 17 I started to hit my "wall". All marathon runners know about the wall and the wall is not a fun place to be. I just felt exhausted as if all the energy was gone, yet I knew I still had 9 miles left to run which was mentally challenging. At Mile 18 I cramped up, mostly in my left calf muscle. MM slowed back with me while I fought through these couple of miles. He was supportive and motivating, reminding me to put one foot in front of the other. By Mile 19 I was breaking through the wall and feeling stronger. Miles 20-24 presented a different kind of challenge. This leg of the race was on a highway and we were running into the wind. It was long, boring, and physically hard. Marshall hit his wall in this area, he felt light-headed and weak. I slowed to stay with him and he fought through it. At mile 25 we finally exited the dreaded highway portion. I can't describe to you how much we hated that part of the race! Mile 25 was still hard, but better because we knew we were approaching the end, completion finally looked like a reality. When we hit Mile 26 we rounded a corner and there was a 2/10 of a mile stretch filled with cheering crowds, blaring music, and a huge finish line banner. We kicked it in and finished strong, holding hands as we crossed the finish line, both so proud of our accomplishment!!!!
Matt and Sheila started in Corral 5 and ran a faster pace, since they were already finished they were able to double back and watch MM & I cross the finish line! It was great having familiar faces cheer for us!
Post Race:
Medals. Photos. Mylar Wrap. Iced Knees. Tylenol. Bananas & Bagels. Live Music. Free Beer!
A shout out goes to Matt for finishing his second marathon and to Sheila for setting her personal best time. We enjoyed sharing this experience with them. Way to go Jordans!!!
That evening I treated myself to lots of food and celebratory wine
Sunday, November 6th:
My favorite part of today was lunch at Paula Deen's restaurant, Lady and Sons. We ate there with Papaw & Gigi and the McChrystal family. Friends, Family, and Fried Chicken!!!
We packed up and headed south today. The drive was beautiful with all the trees changing colors. We checked into our hotel and met up with Matt and Sheila. [MM's brother and sister-in-law] Once downtown we stopped for a high carbohydrate lunch in the "City Market" area. All runners had to be registered for the race by Friday evening at the expo center of Savannah. We waited in a long line for over an hour to catch a ferry to the expo which sits right across the river. The weather was originally forecasted to be calm, sunny, and 70s. It was cloudy, windy, and a cool 50 degrees instead.
My happiest moment of today was arriving to the Health Expo, checking in to receive my bib {Runner #7095} swag bag, and sweet marathon tech tee! It made the marathon feel more real to have all my gear and knowing that the next day I would be trying to conquer a lifelong goal!
Saturday, November 5th:
MARATHON DAY!!!
5am: woke-up, ate breakfast, dressed in layers and gathered running gear.
545am: caught shuttle from hotel to starting line area.
645am: With our gear checked and our trash bags on we found our waiting area, corral 7.
725am: National Anthem for the 23,000 runners
730am: Wave 1 starts... Corral 7 started at 737am.
Miles 1-13 were awesome!!! MM and I both felt great! We made the rookie mistake of running faster than we had trained to run. We were caught up in the atmosphere and excitement. There were so many runners filing the road, spectators lined the streets with signs and balloons cheering us on, and because it was a Rock N Roll event there were bands playing every mile or so. The prettiest part of the run was from Mile 7-11; we ran through some of the older downtown areas that had big southern homes and oak trees covered in Spanish moss creating a canopy about us. We found our friend Wade at Mile 8. His wife was there taking photos and while we stopped to have her take ours, he came up on us! Mile 14-16 we began to tire, we were settled into the race, some of the excitement was wearing off and I was getting hungry. Mile 17 I started to hit my "wall". All marathon runners know about the wall and the wall is not a fun place to be. I just felt exhausted as if all the energy was gone, yet I knew I still had 9 miles left to run which was mentally challenging. At Mile 18 I cramped up, mostly in my left calf muscle. MM slowed back with me while I fought through these couple of miles. He was supportive and motivating, reminding me to put one foot in front of the other. By Mile 19 I was breaking through the wall and feeling stronger. Miles 20-24 presented a different kind of challenge. This leg of the race was on a highway and we were running into the wind. It was long, boring, and physically hard. Marshall hit his wall in this area, he felt light-headed and weak. I slowed to stay with him and he fought through it. At mile 25 we finally exited the dreaded highway portion. I can't describe to you how much we hated that part of the race! Mile 25 was still hard, but better because we knew we were approaching the end, completion finally looked like a reality. When we hit Mile 26 we rounded a corner and there was a 2/10 of a mile stretch filled with cheering crowds, blaring music, and a huge finish line banner. We kicked it in and finished strong, holding hands as we crossed the finish line, both so proud of our accomplishment!!!!
Matt and Sheila started in Corral 5 and ran a faster pace, since they were already finished they were able to double back and watch MM & I cross the finish line! It was great having familiar faces cheer for us!
Post Race:
Medals. Photos. Mylar Wrap. Iced Knees. Tylenol. Bananas & Bagels. Live Music. Free Beer!
A shout out goes to Matt for finishing his second marathon and to Sheila for setting her personal best time. We enjoyed sharing this experience with them. Way to go Jordans!!!
That evening I treated myself to lots of food and celebratory wine
Sunday, November 6th:
My favorite part of today was lunch at Paula Deen's restaurant, Lady and Sons. We ate there with Papaw & Gigi and the McChrystal family. Friends, Family, and Fried Chicken!!!
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
Multiple favorites today. It was a good day.
Today was an easy day, I actually had to narrow the list down and still couldn't pick just one. So here they are, my favorite moments of today...
1. Watching (and cracking up) while Jase & Ruby (one of our dogs) play a version of peek-a-boo around a laundry basket in my closet. It was too funny to not record! I'm adding a link to the video.
Watch them here.
2. Afternoon massage in preparation of this weekend's marathon. An hour of pure relaxation.
3. Laughing out load, multiple times, while watching Modern Family with my husband. That show has some amazing writers. And great actors. "Drink-a-doodle-do!"
1. Watching (and cracking up) while Jase & Ruby (one of our dogs) play a version of peek-a-boo around a laundry basket in my closet. It was too funny to not record! I'm adding a link to the video.
Watch them here.
2. Afternoon massage in preparation of this weekend's marathon. An hour of pure relaxation.
3. Laughing out load, multiple times, while watching Modern Family with my husband. That show has some amazing writers. And great actors. "Drink-a-doodle-do!"
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
budget
My favorite moment of today was while Baby J was napping. Last night we put him to bed late and he didn't sleep very well. It's amazing how much babies thrive on routine and how the slightest change in that routine and cause problems. This morning he also fought 2 different attempts at napping. So this afternoon as silence came across the baby monitor I made myself a cup of coffee and indulged in a couple biscotti while I worked on balancing our October budget and setting our November budget. Some people might think I am insane to use my small piece of "down time" for budgeting, but I enjoy it. Budgeting leaves me feeling accomplished and in control.
One more moment that is definitely worth mentioning happened just a few minutes ago. MM accidentally swallowed an ice cube from his water cup and as the cold lump worked it's way down his esophagus he danced around the kitchen rubbing his throat and chest. He reminded me of a sexy back-up dancer under a waterfall in a music video! Hilarious!
One more moment that is definitely worth mentioning happened just a few minutes ago. MM accidentally swallowed an ice cube from his water cup and as the cold lump worked it's way down his esophagus he danced around the kitchen rubbing his throat and chest. He reminded me of a sexy back-up dancer under a waterfall in a music video! Hilarious!
Monday, October 31, 2011
Hall's Halloween Party
Happiest moment of today:
The Hall's Halloween Party!!!!!!! It was so fun to get together and everyone dressed up in costume! Including the baby and the 2 dogs (a dinosaur, a tooth, and a squirrel). Meghan & Joe built a fire pit just for the party so we were able to roast hotdogs and make s'mores. Great night of fellowship with our small group!
The Hall's Halloween Party!!!!!!! It was so fun to get together and everyone dressed up in costume! Including the baby and the 2 dogs (a dinosaur, a tooth, and a squirrel). Meghan & Joe built a fire pit just for the party so we were able to roast hotdogs and make s'mores. Great night of fellowship with our small group!
HAPPINESS
I have given happiness a lot of thought lately. I am a happy person by nature. At times I am afraid I can annoy people with my "glass is all full" mentality. You know the girl who whistles on Monday morning type. Haha! But now don't get me wrong, I can have a grumpy moment (or day, week, etc) just ask my husband or my best friend. They have seen me at my happiest and in a fit of darkness. And I have unfortunately had more than a few life experiences that have left me cynical.
But the older I get the more I learn of the control I have over my happiness; that happiness doesn't just happen. I have to direct my energy and mental awareness to the positive side of life, everyday; even on the "I just stepped in dog poop and I am late for an appointment and my house is wreck and I'm having an argument with a loved one and you get my point" kind of day .
In an effort to be more aware of how blessed I am I will be writing my favorite thing/ happiest part of each day. Some days will be easy, on easy days I will probably have a list of favorite moments.
I have never been good at narrowing things down to just 1 favorite.
Other days will be more difficult, having to really search for the sunshine in my life. But my goal is come up with at least 1 completely positive and happy moment from each and every day. So here I go with day # 1...
Sunday, October 30th, 2011
My happiest moment of today was watching my husband push my son in the swing at the CC Library park. This was only Baby J's second time in a swing, a real swing (excluding his baby swing). I love seeing Baby J and his Dada interacting! And the giggles that were coming from him, I mean really is there any sweeter noise in the entire world? I have yet to find one.
Here is a "happiness" article I read this morning as well. Thanks to S.C. Cummings for sharing it via facebook. Oh, social media. :)
12 happiness habits for busy people
But the older I get the more I learn of the control I have over my happiness; that happiness doesn't just happen. I have to direct my energy and mental awareness to the positive side of life, everyday; even on the "I just stepped in dog poop and I am late for an appointment and my house is wreck and I'm having an argument with a loved one and you get my point" kind of day .
In an effort to be more aware of how blessed I am I will be writing my favorite thing/ happiest part of each day. Some days will be easy, on easy days I will probably have a list of favorite moments.
I have never been good at narrowing things down to just 1 favorite.
Other days will be more difficult, having to really search for the sunshine in my life. But my goal is come up with at least 1 completely positive and happy moment from each and every day. So here I go with day # 1...
Sunday, October 30th, 2011
My happiest moment of today was watching my husband push my son in the swing at the CC Library park. This was only Baby J's second time in a swing, a real swing (excluding his baby swing). I love seeing Baby J and his Dada interacting! And the giggles that were coming from him, I mean really is there any sweeter noise in the entire world? I have yet to find one.
Here is a "happiness" article I read this morning as well. Thanks to S.C. Cummings for sharing it via facebook. Oh, social media. :)
12 happiness habits for busy people
Friday, September 30, 2011
50 mm f1.8 lens [1st day]
Amazon (Oh how I love me some Amazon!) delivered my new camera lens today; it was like Christmas in September! I'm not use to a fixed lens, but I had a lot of fun figuring it out today. Here are some shots I got around the house this afternoon. You'll easily discover my favorite subject is my beyond-words-adorable 11 month old son.
Click any of the photos to view larger.
[learning what it looks like to LOVE]
[our little chomper]
[upgrading from infant status]
[furry friends]
[mom + son]
[yawns]
Thursday, September 29, 2011
watermarks
Any artist - good, bad, pro, or complete amateur wants credit for their work. In the one photography class that I took the instructor drilled it into us that we should never have a piece of art floating in the world without our mark on it. She was old-school and while she used digital cameras and images she never shared her worked digitally, when I saw her photos I saw them printed and matted. On each and EVERY photograph she signed her initials and the year in the lower right corner. Hand-signed with a marker. I have started hand-signing my more artistic prints that I have framed or given away, but most of my photography "skills" are shared via world wide web. So I'm learning to watermark. If you use Lightroom 3 you are in luck because they have made watermarking EASY!
Right click an edited image, scroll down to Export, then tab over and click Export again.
Scroll down to the Watermarking portion, Check the box and use the drop down to click Edit Watermarks and you will be brought to a page that allows you to type up a watermark or use an image to create a watermark.
This watermark was created by using the fonts that Lightroom had available for me. It was simple and quick to make. Not the most creative, but gets the job done in a very time efficient manner.
This watermark was created by uploading an image in the Lightroom watermark maker. I signed a piece a paper, snapped a photo with my point & shoot camera, then uploaded it. My mistake is that when I saved the image to my computer I forgot to turn off my original watermark, so if you look very closely you will see the previous text watermark is stamped on this image watermark.
Lastly, this watermark was created by using the website www.mylivesignature.com which allows you to create your own "signature" using their various tools. Bonus it's free! After you have completed your signature just right click to "save image as..." and make sure to set the background as transparent or you will end up with a box around your signature.
Right click an edited image, scroll down to Export, then tab over and click Export again.
Scroll down to the Watermarking portion, Check the box and use the drop down to click Edit Watermarks and you will be brought to a page that allows you to type up a watermark or use an image to create a watermark.
This watermark was created by using the fonts that Lightroom had available for me. It was simple and quick to make. Not the most creative, but gets the job done in a very time efficient manner. This watermark was created by uploading an image in the Lightroom watermark maker. I signed a piece a paper, snapped a photo with my point & shoot camera, then uploaded it. My mistake is that when I saved the image to my computer I forgot to turn off my original watermark, so if you look very closely you will see the previous text watermark is stamped on this image watermark. Lastly, this watermark was created by using the website www.mylivesignature.com which allows you to create your own "signature" using their various tools. Bonus it's free! After you have completed your signature just right click to "save image as..." and make sure to set the background as transparent or you will end up with a box around your signature. Here's to leaving my mark! :)
Monday, June 27, 2011
ahellava morning
I woke up today to pee-free, poop-free, puke-free sheets.
It's going to be a good day.
Although Baby J decided to wake at 0645, I welcomed the early rise because it meant we were able to spend a little time with the daddy before he headed to his office.
I was drinking my coffee, talking to MM while he shaved and dressed, and Baby J was playing with his stacking rings on the floor. Yesterday MM spent the entire day (well into the evening) at work dealing with a soldier so the time together this morning was nice.
Due to a stomach bug Baby J has been battling over the weekend [hence the excitement over clean sheets this morning] his appetite has been virtually non-existent. But that hasn't stop me from trying to feed him, nurse him, and/or get him to drink water from a straw- something in which he usually (but not right now) finds great excitement.
Operation: Please Baby Drink Some Milk...
As I position him on my lap in hopes he will nurse I smell dirty diaper. I glance at the side of his thigh and notice that the poop is barely being contained and I tell MM how lucky I am to have caught it at this point before we ended up with a giant poop mess. But as I am moving the baby to stand up, MM starts yelling and pointing. I'm oblivious to the massive amount of leaked poop that has come up and out the back side of the diaper, coating my stomach and the boppy pillow in a stinky, yellow smear. I rush to the changing table, peel off Baby J's clothes, and start wiping his arms and legs off while trying to keep him from rolling around. MM and I tag-team him. He holds Baby J's upper half while I clean the lower half, both of us have our noses tucked into our shirts!
He is clean. I am clean. The pillow covers and clothes are in the washing machine. We are on the couch to try again at Operation: Drink Milk and as I settle him back into the nook of my arm he begins vomiting. All over me, all over himself, all over the pillow I have propping him up, all over the beach towel that was luckily laying on the floor near me and I grabbed in a rush to contain some of the mess. This time Baby J goes straight into the bath tub and MM finds his window of opportunity to leave for work. Just as the bathtub is filled with warm water and Baby J starts splashing the door bell rings. I consider ignoring it, but decide I shouldn't. Scooping J out of the tub I wrap him in a towel and run downstairs to answer the door, leaving a water droplet trail. It's MM at the door with a sheepish grin on his face. He had forgotten his keys, locking himself out of his truck and the house. Keys delivered and I am following the water trail back upstairs, praying for no more drama. I let Baby J play in the clean water before soaping him up. He chews on these little sea creature squirt toys that I always try to remember to empty after bath time so they don't have stale water sitting inside them for days, and as I squeeze out the crab I'm not paying attention to the direction it is facing and end up soaking my shirt.
What did you do before 8am today?
*For those concerned (all the grandmas!) Baby J has a doctor appointment this afternoon.
It's going to be a good day.
Although Baby J decided to wake at 0645, I welcomed the early rise because it meant we were able to spend a little time with the daddy before he headed to his office.
I was drinking my coffee, talking to MM while he shaved and dressed, and Baby J was playing with his stacking rings on the floor. Yesterday MM spent the entire day (well into the evening) at work dealing with a soldier so the time together this morning was nice.
Due to a stomach bug Baby J has been battling over the weekend [hence the excitement over clean sheets this morning] his appetite has been virtually non-existent. But that hasn't stop me from trying to feed him, nurse him, and/or get him to drink water from a straw- something in which he usually (but not right now) finds great excitement.
Operation: Please Baby Drink Some Milk...
As I position him on my lap in hopes he will nurse I smell dirty diaper. I glance at the side of his thigh and notice that the poop is barely being contained and I tell MM how lucky I am to have caught it at this point before we ended up with a giant poop mess. But as I am moving the baby to stand up, MM starts yelling and pointing. I'm oblivious to the massive amount of leaked poop that has come up and out the back side of the diaper, coating my stomach and the boppy pillow in a stinky, yellow smear. I rush to the changing table, peel off Baby J's clothes, and start wiping his arms and legs off while trying to keep him from rolling around. MM and I tag-team him. He holds Baby J's upper half while I clean the lower half, both of us have our noses tucked into our shirts!
He is clean. I am clean. The pillow covers and clothes are in the washing machine. We are on the couch to try again at Operation: Drink Milk and as I settle him back into the nook of my arm he begins vomiting. All over me, all over himself, all over the pillow I have propping him up, all over the beach towel that was luckily laying on the floor near me and I grabbed in a rush to contain some of the mess. This time Baby J goes straight into the bath tub and MM finds his window of opportunity to leave for work. Just as the bathtub is filled with warm water and Baby J starts splashing the door bell rings. I consider ignoring it, but decide I shouldn't. Scooping J out of the tub I wrap him in a towel and run downstairs to answer the door, leaving a water droplet trail. It's MM at the door with a sheepish grin on his face. He had forgotten his keys, locking himself out of his truck and the house. Keys delivered and I am following the water trail back upstairs, praying for no more drama. I let Baby J play in the clean water before soaping him up. He chews on these little sea creature squirt toys that I always try to remember to empty after bath time so they don't have stale water sitting inside them for days, and as I squeeze out the crab I'm not paying attention to the direction it is facing and end up soaking my shirt.
What did you do before 8am today?
*For those concerned (all the grandmas!) Baby J has a doctor appointment this afternoon.
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
I want a carrot puff for my next birthday cake.
Ingredients:
2 bags shredded carrots
1/3 cup butter
3 eggs
1/2 cup sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar
3 Tbs. flour
1 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. vanilla
Instructions:
Cook carrots in water until tender.
Drain.
Blend all ingredients in a food processor (or blender), adding carrots a little at a time.
Puree.
Pour into greased 8 inch pan and bake @ 350 degrees (325 degrees if using a dark pan) for 45 minutes or until firm.
Let stand 5 minutes.
Serve hot.
2 bags shredded carrots
1/3 cup butter
3 eggs
1/2 cup sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar
3 Tbs. flour
1 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. vanilla
Instructions:
Cook carrots in water until tender.
Drain.
Blend all ingredients in a food processor (or blender), adding carrots a little at a time.
Puree.
Pour into greased 8 inch pan and bake @ 350 degrees (325 degrees if using a dark pan) for 45 minutes or until firm.
Let stand 5 minutes.
Serve hot.
Monday, June 20, 2011
We do what the daddy wants.
My first Mother's Day was full of grief. MM's Nana who I have known for the last 6 years and have grown to think of as my own grandma was losing her battle with liver cancer. We spent the day gathered at Nana & Papa's Sapulpa house, whispering with family (she was very sensitive to noise) and snacking on grilled hamburgers. Nana was so weak at this point and we all knew it was a matter of days or even hours until she would be gone. Thankfully goodbyes were able to be said and Nana expressed her desire to leave this world and enter into the glorious kingdom of Heaven. A whisper of I love yous would be the last words that we would speak to one another. I know the hurt my heart was feeling and I know that the hurt in MM's heart must have been much worse, but he is a man of few words when it comes to talking about emotions. Years of friendship and partnership have given me the ability to [usually] tell what's going on in his heart by the look in his eyes. Nana passed away 3 days later on May 11, 2010; she is missed everyday. Now we hold on to the love, life lessons, and memories she gave.
When MM's first Father's Day came around I really wanted it to be a happy day. I am a sentimental sap.
The day started with a brightly wrapped surprise [He thought he had already received his father's day gift the previous week- that story to follow] package sitting on the kitchen counter Sunday morning. It was a Tervis Tumbler [These things are awesome. You should buy some. www.tervis.com] with "The Best Dad Ever" patch and inside of that a Starbucks gift card. We went to church. For lunch we finally tried Five Guys Burgers and Fries. For months we have heard how good this place is and MM has been dying to try it... what better way to celebrate being a dad than with an awesome burger?! That afternoon he wanted to wash his truck. While this seems like a dull chore to me, it's fun for him. Instead of staying inside like I usually would I put on a bikini and helped him wash and wax the cars. The day was simple and relaxing and most importantly made the daddy happy.
The Ruined Gift (again!) Story...
MM is the worst at ruining the surprise element of gifts! It's like his super power. Without fail a week before a holiday or birthday he will go out and buy or announce to me that he is planning to buy the EXACT thing that I have chosen to give him! How does he do it? I'm stumped, because usually the gift idea is something he hasn't mentioned in months. Or something I noticed would be useful/enjoyable to him, but haven't dared to utter a word about. His Father's day gift was no different [I really should have known]. This winter we moved 1100 miles across the country, while setting up our new home we noticed project after project that could have and would have been simplified with the use of a power drill. It had been 5 months since we discussed the usefulness of a power drill and I just loved the "Father's Dayishness" of the gift. You know, because all dads are to receive ties or tools on Father's day.
At the beginning of June MM received a job promotion and along with it came his very own office which he decided needed a makeover (it really did, the last occupant was a pack-rat slob). So he spent hours cleaning and organizing, decluttering and rearranging. He found himself a new desk; abandoned in a back room of the hospital sat a big, beautiful, oak desk. Out went the bulky, way too tall, ugly, metal desk that came with his new office and in came... nothing. The new desk was too wide for the doorway and no amount of turning, sliding, or taking doors of hinges was getting it into the office. The solution: take it apart and then reassemble it inside the office. A task that can't be done without the use of... you guessed it, a power drill!
And this is how another gift surprise was ruined.
MM proclaimed (just 1 week before Father's Day) that he was going to Lowe's to finally purchase that power drill we had talked about,
"Remember honey when we talked about how helpful having a power drill around the house would be?".
Anyway, he did get the power drill. Picked it out and paid for it himself. And he did get that desk put back together in his office.
 |
| A cherished moment: Nana meeting her great grandson moments after he was born. |
When MM's first Father's Day came around I really wanted it to be a happy day. I am a sentimental sap.
The day started with a brightly wrapped surprise [He thought he had already received his father's day gift the previous week- that story to follow] package sitting on the kitchen counter Sunday morning. It was a Tervis Tumbler [These things are awesome. You should buy some. www.tervis.com] with "The Best Dad Ever" patch and inside of that a Starbucks gift card. We went to church. For lunch we finally tried Five Guys Burgers and Fries. For months we have heard how good this place is and MM has been dying to try it... what better way to celebrate being a dad than with an awesome burger?! That afternoon he wanted to wash his truck. While this seems like a dull chore to me, it's fun for him. Instead of staying inside like I usually would I put on a bikini and helped him wash and wax the cars. The day was simple and relaxing and most importantly made the daddy happy.
 |
| Rad like Dad |
The Ruined Gift (again!) Story...
MM is the worst at ruining the surprise element of gifts! It's like his super power. Without fail a week before a holiday or birthday he will go out and buy or announce to me that he is planning to buy the EXACT thing that I have chosen to give him! How does he do it? I'm stumped, because usually the gift idea is something he hasn't mentioned in months. Or something I noticed would be useful/enjoyable to him, but haven't dared to utter a word about. His Father's day gift was no different [I really should have known]. This winter we moved 1100 miles across the country, while setting up our new home we noticed project after project that could have and would have been simplified with the use of a power drill. It had been 5 months since we discussed the usefulness of a power drill and I just loved the "Father's Dayishness" of the gift. You know, because all dads are to receive ties or tools on Father's day.
At the beginning of June MM received a job promotion and along with it came his very own office which he decided needed a makeover (it really did, the last occupant was a pack-rat slob). So he spent hours cleaning and organizing, decluttering and rearranging. He found himself a new desk; abandoned in a back room of the hospital sat a big, beautiful, oak desk. Out went the bulky, way too tall, ugly, metal desk that came with his new office and in came... nothing. The new desk was too wide for the doorway and no amount of turning, sliding, or taking doors of hinges was getting it into the office. The solution: take it apart and then reassemble it inside the office. A task that can't be done without the use of... you guessed it, a power drill!
And this is how another gift surprise was ruined.
MM proclaimed (just 1 week before Father's Day) that he was going to Lowe's to finally purchase that power drill we had talked about,
"Remember honey when we talked about how helpful having a power drill around the house would be?".
Anyway, he did get the power drill. Picked it out and paid for it himself. And he did get that desk put back together in his office.
All things baby [8m]
Baby J is growing up quick, right before our eyes. Just as every parent we have ever known warned! He is 8 1/2 months old, full of personality and energy!
His current stats:
Weight 17lbs. - 25th percentile
Height 28 inches - 80th percentile
1 Tooth - This was the newest milestone to be reached; with a tooth on the bottom pushing through in the last few days.
From birth he has been a laid-back and happy baby and thankfully his attitude has not changed. He is a self entertainer, but loves interaction especially if it includes clapping! He is currently obsessed with clapping. Even when he is fussy. If someone starts clapping he will probably continue to fuss, but with a smile on his face!
Speaking of smiles, Baby J has a great big one! MM (Medical Man aka my husband/baby daddy) and I still catch ourselves saying, "Awww" aloud when we see his big gummy smile. It never loses it's heart melting power.
Besides smiling, another common facial expression is the bottom-lip-out pouty look. He does it all the time, no sadness needed. It's just one of his normal expressions. If sadness does occur the pout just grows a little.
A couple months ago we started the baby food phase of life. He eats a good serving every evening, and we are currently trying to get him to eat a 2nd serving mid-day. This week being the first week he has cooperated. He is a great eater once he gets started. Sometimes we have to be a little forceful with the first spoonful of the meal, but soon he is opening up before we can get the next spoonful ready. [Inside joke: "Like a fish after the bangominnow"] On days when eating is off to a slow start, it's nothing a few claps and cheers won't fix! Again with the love of claps!
He has tried many fruits, vegetables, and combinations. Only once did he absolutely refuse something and that was a spinach, peas, and carrots mix... too many vegetables at once for him I suppose. In his defense it did smell pretty awful! His favorite food seems to be sweet potatoes, he gobbles them up fast each and every time.
He loves to jump! And is developing some very strong legs! This bouncer is worth every penny our friends spent on it (fab shower gift idea). I love it as much as Baby J loves it. It gives me a chance to get things done around the house without worrying about what the baby is doing, or better yet what the dogs are doing to the baby. Holding him can be more difficult now as he wants to bounce constantly giving my arms a workout. Even when he is sitting on my hip his legs are kicking non-stop.
He is at the everything goes straight into the mouth phase of life. Needless to say this is a house of slobber. And when I say everything goes into his mouth, I mean everything including any body part of mine or daddy's that he can manage to get a hold of, such as (but not limited to) noses, shoulders, fingers, chins, cheeks, collarbones, etc. The kid actually gave me a hickey the other day! When he gets a good latch he likes to shake his head back and forth, we call this the "Shark Attack"! With the new addition of a tooth this game is going to be retired.
He has started "talking". While the jibber-jabber has been around for awhile, recently he has started making recognizable sounds such as "da da da da" and "ma ma ma ma" and once even "na na na na". Of course "da da da da" is the most used sound (because it's the easiest to make) and his Dada is loving it. I'm starting to think that he might actually be figuring out the connection between the "da da da da " sound and his Daddy. The few times I have heard him make the "ma ma ma" noise has been a joyful experience even though I know it's just noises and there is no connection being made to me... YET! Now when I try to coax him into saying "momma" he grins real big and then says "da da da da". He also enjoys yelling. Not in an upset manner, just in a did you know my voice could get this loud? I just made this discovery and it is fun! manner.
He loves the dogs!! I think he used to be confused about the small furry creatures that roamed the house, but now I'm pretty sure he believes they exist simply for his entertainment! I am grateful that Wrigley & Ruby are very patient dogs because he has learned to grab their fur and hold on tight! The first time this happened Baby J was laying on the couch and Ruby was hovering over him. When I yelled for her to get down she tried jumping off the couch, but he had her floppy ear in his chubby-fingered grasp. She shrieked and is now a little leery of getting so close. If he does manage to grab one of the dog's fur, they freeze (silently willing J to let go). The dogs run back and forth through the house playing and chasing one another and Baby J just watches and laughs. While he is in his bouncer Wrigley likes to lay underneath and attempt to lick his feet while Ruby prefers to stand up against it and attempt to lick his face.
He makes a single "duh" sound when the dogs come around. It's a different sound from "da da", which uses the A sound and tends to be multiple syllables. So I wonder if he is learning the word dog, which I repeat over and over and over throughout the day.
GAMES. Peekaboo is fun. I hide behind pillows or cabinets or my hands and then pop out and J always giggles without fail. Stinky Feet is also a popular game. I grab his feet and put them to my nose then yell "phew-ehhh stinky feet!!" while shaking his feet in the air, that one always gets a good laugh too. Big-Strong-Baby (BSB) and Don't-Shake-The-Baby (DSTB) are the other everyday games we play. BSB is played by him laying down on his back while he grabs my fingers and I pull him up to the standing position with one quick motion while cheering "big strong baby!" and DSTB is simply me shaking him a little while signing "don't shake the baby".
He is ultra ticklish, which shouldn't surprise me too much because so am I. The slightest poke to his rib cage or squeeze of his thigh and he is in a fit of laughter sometimes laughing so hard he gets choked up.
He can roll from his stomach to his back with ease. And although we know he can roll from his back to his stomach, he Very Rarely does. He still gets his arm caught when rolling that direction and it makes him mad so he just won't do it. I'll put him on his hands and knees and he can hold himself up really well, but when he tries to make a move he plops down on his belly and kicks his feet, gets annoyed, and rolls over to his back. He can sit up all by himself now! This is such a helpful milestone for him to have reached! And because of it he can ride in grocery carts without his car seat and he can sit in restaurant high chairs.
His current stats:
Weight 17lbs. - 25th percentile
Height 28 inches - 80th percentile
1 Tooth - This was the newest milestone to be reached; with a tooth on the bottom pushing through in the last few days.
From birth he has been a laid-back and happy baby and thankfully his attitude has not changed. He is a self entertainer, but loves interaction especially if it includes clapping! He is currently obsessed with clapping. Even when he is fussy. If someone starts clapping he will probably continue to fuss, but with a smile on his face!
Speaking of smiles, Baby J has a great big one! MM (Medical Man aka my husband/baby daddy) and I still catch ourselves saying, "Awww" aloud when we see his big gummy smile. It never loses it's heart melting power.
Besides smiling, another common facial expression is the bottom-lip-out pouty look. He does it all the time, no sadness needed. It's just one of his normal expressions. If sadness does occur the pout just grows a little.
 |
| non-sad pout |
 |
| prunes + apples |
He loves to jump! And is developing some very strong legs! This bouncer is worth every penny our friends spent on it (fab shower gift idea). I love it as much as Baby J loves it. It gives me a chance to get things done around the house without worrying about what the baby is doing, or better yet what the dogs are doing to the baby. Holding him can be more difficult now as he wants to bounce constantly giving my arms a workout. Even when he is sitting on my hip his legs are kicking non-stop.
He is at the everything goes straight into the mouth phase of life. Needless to say this is a house of slobber. And when I say everything goes into his mouth, I mean everything including any body part of mine or daddy's that he can manage to get a hold of, such as (but not limited to) noses, shoulders, fingers, chins, cheeks, collarbones, etc. The kid actually gave me a hickey the other day! When he gets a good latch he likes to shake his head back and forth, we call this the "Shark Attack"! With the new addition of a tooth this game is going to be retired.
 |
| feet make the best chew toys |
He has started "talking". While the jibber-jabber has been around for awhile, recently he has started making recognizable sounds such as "da da da da" and "ma ma ma ma" and once even "na na na na". Of course "da da da da" is the most used sound (because it's the easiest to make) and his Dada is loving it. I'm starting to think that he might actually be figuring out the connection between the "da da da da " sound and his Daddy. The few times I have heard him make the "ma ma ma" noise has been a joyful experience even though I know it's just noises and there is no connection being made to me... YET! Now when I try to coax him into saying "momma" he grins real big and then says "da da da da". He also enjoys yelling. Not in an upset manner, just in a did you know my voice could get this loud? I just made this discovery and it is fun! manner.
 |
| hanging out with his DaDa |
He makes a single "duh" sound when the dogs come around. It's a different sound from "da da", which uses the A sound and tends to be multiple syllables. So I wonder if he is learning the word dog, which I repeat over and over and over throughout the day.
GAMES. Peekaboo is fun. I hide behind pillows or cabinets or my hands and then pop out and J always giggles without fail. Stinky Feet is also a popular game. I grab his feet and put them to my nose then yell "phew-ehhh stinky feet!!" while shaking his feet in the air, that one always gets a good laugh too. Big-Strong-Baby (BSB) and Don't-Shake-The-Baby (DSTB) are the other everyday games we play. BSB is played by him laying down on his back while he grabs my fingers and I pull him up to the standing position with one quick motion while cheering "big strong baby!" and DSTB is simply me shaking him a little while signing "don't shake the baby".
He is ultra ticklish, which shouldn't surprise me too much because so am I. The slightest poke to his rib cage or squeeze of his thigh and he is in a fit of laughter sometimes laughing so hard he gets choked up.
He can roll from his stomach to his back with ease. And although we know he can roll from his back to his stomach, he Very Rarely does. He still gets his arm caught when rolling that direction and it makes him mad so he just won't do it. I'll put him on his hands and knees and he can hold himself up really well, but when he tries to make a move he plops down on his belly and kicks his feet, gets annoyed, and rolls over to his back. He can sit up all by himself now! This is such a helpful milestone for him to have reached! And because of it he can ride in grocery carts without his car seat and he can sit in restaurant high chairs.
 |
| 1st time in a high chair @ Mellow Mushroom, Columbia, SC |
He is an avid reader. Big Rex and Squishy Turtle are his top picks.
Other Tidbits...
- He puts himself to sleep. Yay-Parental high five! We have been training him to go to sleep in his crib instead of letting him fall asleep on us and then laying him down in bed. I would say 85% of the time he is put into bed awake.
- Pretty sure he prefers to sleep in the big bed with Momma and Daddy, but we try to limit this to early morning only. He tends to wake between 5-6am, wants a little milk and then goes right back to sleep until 7ish. At this time we will let him lay between us in our bed. We also partake in Family Naps all together, usually on Sunday afternoons.
- He loves bath time. The splashing, the chewing on the rubber toys, the trying to drink the water. Induces great sleep as well.
- He enjoys being outdoors. We sit on blankets outside to play in the fresh air when it's not too hot. And he likes going on walks, rarely complains when being pushed in his stroller. If running with him in his stroller he always falls asleep.
- Favors his left hand when picking up toys, not sure if that means anything at this early of an age, but it's an observation we have made. His grandpa is left-handed.
- "Healthy as a horse!" He is right on track with his physical and mental development, it's easy to take this for granted. We are so thankful for it.
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
Sick baby. Weekend to Papaw & Gigi's house.
Poor Baby J, on top of not feeling well he had to have a thermometer stuck in his hiney. And with his first ever fever my "momma of a sick baby" anxiety kicked in.
Momma: "His fever is 101.7, do we need to go to the ER?"
Daddy: "He's ok. We'll watch him closely, no need for an ER trip"
Momma: "Are you sure? Did you hear me? 101.7!"
Daddy: "If it gets up to 103 we will take him to the ER"
Momma: "102"
Daddy: "102.5"
Momma: "Deal!"
His fever never rose above 101.7, and after about 36 hours of extra sleepiness and tons of cuddles his fever broke.
While he ran a fever he didn't show any other symptoms of sickness. So we continued on with our plan to visit Gigi and Papaw the Great for the weekend. Uncle M & Aunt S were going to the grandparents house too and Baby J hadn't seen them since he was 6 weeks old.
We took our 2 dogs down with us, while M & S brought their 3 dogs up with them. 6 adults + 1 baby + 5 small furry animals in one house = fun loving chaos. We ate delicious meals together, we went to church, we sat around sipping coffee and catching up, we walked downtown by the harbor and ate ice cream, we went to the beach... it was a great weekend!
The one negative to the weekend was Baby J started acting sickly again. He never ran a fever, but he became very congested and at night while laying flat on his back he couldn't breath, which meant he couldn't sleep, which meant his momma and daddy couldn't sleep either. We took him to an urgent care center where he was prescribed Claritin (what a wonderful little medicine) and Amoxicillin. BJ couldn't keep the Amoxicillin down (allergic reaction? we don't know, but we stopped giving it to him) and because we had mixed it with his baby food to try to get him to take it he went on a week long baby food revolt! Refusing to open his mouth for even his favorite foods. But all is well, that ends well and the baby is well again!
Momma: "His fever is 101.7, do we need to go to the ER?"
Daddy: "He's ok. We'll watch him closely, no need for an ER trip"
Momma: "Are you sure? Did you hear me? 101.7!"
Daddy: "If it gets up to 103 we will take him to the ER"
Momma: "102"
Daddy: "102.5"
Momma: "Deal!"
His fever never rose above 101.7, and after about 36 hours of extra sleepiness and tons of cuddles his fever broke.
While he ran a fever he didn't show any other symptoms of sickness. So we continued on with our plan to visit Gigi and Papaw the Great for the weekend. Uncle M & Aunt S were going to the grandparents house too and Baby J hadn't seen them since he was 6 weeks old.
[Side Note] Amelia Island, Florida... it's a nice place to have grandparents! Going to a grandparent's house is always nice for a visit, but put your grandparents' house on an island and you get quality family time PLUS a little vacation getaway all rolled into one! Did I mention that Papaw is a deep sea fisherman and Gigi has her own facial salon in a local spa? AND they are fabulous, loving grandparents who truly enjoy family.
We took our 2 dogs down with us, while M & S brought their 3 dogs up with them. 6 adults + 1 baby + 5 small furry animals in one house = fun loving chaos. We ate delicious meals together, we went to church, we sat around sipping coffee and catching up, we walked downtown by the harbor and ate ice cream, we went to the beach... it was a great weekend!
The one negative to the weekend was Baby J started acting sickly again. He never ran a fever, but he became very congested and at night while laying flat on his back he couldn't breath, which meant he couldn't sleep, which meant his momma and daddy couldn't sleep either. We took him to an urgent care center where he was prescribed Claritin (what a wonderful little medicine) and Amoxicillin. BJ couldn't keep the Amoxicillin down (allergic reaction? we don't know, but we stopped giving it to him) and because we had mixed it with his baby food to try to get him to take it he went on a week long baby food revolt! Refusing to open his mouth for even his favorite foods. But all is well, that ends well and the baby is well again!
Monday, May 23, 2011
Step back in time: Charleston. [day2]
We dedicated day 2 in Charleston to a tour bus ride around the city. We had a very knowledgeable guide whose accent was quite thick and who spoke quite quick, so I managed to pick up about 1/3 of the information he was giving out. Still, we learned a lot about the city’s history and about the architecture.
One interesting fact: the houses are built back (or sideways), meaning they do not face the street. They have large, usually multi-storied, verandas built on the houses as a way to escape the hot, southern, summer heat and catch a breeze. On the end of the verandas is a door that opens up to the street. If the home’s residents are sitting on the veranda, but do not wish to have guest they simply close the door to let people know they are “not available”.
Example...
Our tour ended with refreshments at The Palmer House . Also referred to as The Pink Palace. It was built in 1848 and is now a bed and breakfast by The Battery next to the Charleston Harbor. It's furnished with 200 year old antiques and has been passed down from generation to generation in the Palmer family.
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| The Palmer House |
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| These looks like stone, but it is all wood. Wood is cheaper, but they wanted the expensive look of stone. |
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| A carriage stone. Women used it to step up into the horse drawn carriages while wearing their big dresses. |
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| The veranda |
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| The large sitting room on the second floor. |
The original Citadel: Military College of South Carolina (est. 1842) has been converted into an Embassy Suites hotel, but much of the original structure is still present and easily recognized.
We ended the day by taking one more tour. The Joseph Manigault House, significant for it's Adam style architecture (18th century neoclassical style of interior design and architecture, as practiced by the three Adam brothers from Scotland) was built in 1803. During WWII the house served as a USO for war soldiers.
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| side view |
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| original stairwell columns |
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| [now painted] large metal doors that can slide shut for protection |
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