Live Laugh Love

Snuggle

2011-05-03T12:20:00.002-04:00

That's all P wanted to do last night. Snuggle. Poor baby was very sick & he knew it!

When he & Todd got home last night I knew he was burning up~ those flushed cheeks & sad eyes said what he couldn't. He reached for me to hold him & when I did, my suspicions were confirmed. He was H.O.T. I asked if he wanted to snuggle, and he said over & over again "snuggle." So sweet yet so sad.

So we immediately got in Mommy & Daddy's bed & we snuggled. Todd laid down with us for a few moments, but then headed out to get us something for dinner. I ate my dinner with P in the crook of my arm & we watched Curious George & Elmo over & over again. He fell asleep around 9:15, & I finally got watch something other that CG & E.

P occasionally woke up during the night either to cry, whimper, or get some juice. Around 3 a.m. I spoon-fed him applesauce (spiked with his medicine ~ he won't take medicine any other way), & by 5 his fever broke.

Since he's still not feeling 100%, he's spending the day watching more CG & E and snuggling with PopPop. I hope PopPop gets to hear him say that sweet word~ snuggle.

TMI, but it makes a Momma proud!!!

2011-04-22T10:15:00.002-04:00

P is in a new class at school (the older 1s), and in that class they focus on potty-training. It's awesome in that P gets to see all his friends doing it, so he wants to do it too, and it is awesome in that they know how to potty-train whereas I don't. Not that I certainly can't figure it all out, but it helps that they are also helping to teach me what they do so that we can be consistent.

Well, Sunday, March 27, P went poopy in the potty!!! He told me he needed to "poppy... potty", so I took him to the bathroom, sat him on his potty seat that is fitted to the toilet, and I sat down in front of him to help him balance. I also made lots of funny grunting noises and silly faces so he would "push down" as he tried. Well, it worked! Yeah, Nathan! He gave me a high five & I told him how proud I was.

And then last night, April 21, he was snuggled in my arms, almost asleep, when he said "potty" again. We got up & I grabbed his step stool on my way to the potty for him to stand on. With his diaper off, P stepped up on that stool like a big boy & attempted to pee-pee in the potty. He would have been successful had I removed his potty seat. (It adds an extra 1.5 to 2 inches to the toilet seat.) Again, another round of high fives & a special visit from Daddy to tell him how proud he was.

I know we still have a ways to go, but we are so proud of Nathan. I told his teacher about his success last night, & she said she would do her magic. ;)

Yeah, Nathan! Mommy & daddy are sooo proud of you!!!

Ice Cream Madness

2011-04-20T15:34:00.003-04:00

We dined al fresco last night. Mom & Rich supplied the pizza & we supplied the beverages & dessert.

P enjoyed his "pizzie", but loved his ice cream more. I made him a cone, two small scoops, & it really surprised me when he said "ice cream" as I handed it to him. He's only had it once before to our knowledge, so now I'm wondering how he knows these words. But anyway...

In addition to a small cone, I also gave him a small bowl & he really loved eating his cone with his spoon.

Nate-Nate's House

2011-04-20T15:03:00.013-04:00

Sunday morning, Mom, Todd, Nathan & I headed to Costco to purchase something for Mom's backyard. With P in the buggy, we headed toward the back of the store. Just as we got to the "outdoor area", P demanded to be let out. "Out! Out!" he said. He had spotted the CUTEST little playhouse.

Well, it didn't take long until we all made the decision that he just had to have the CUTEST little playhouse, so 25 minutes later we were checking out with it on our cart.

Fast forward several hours later. P wakes up from his nap to find Daddy hard at work putting together the CUTEST little playhouse. As he peered from the back deck into the backyard, he giggled (so stinkin' cute) and immediately proclaimed.... "THAT'S NATE-NATE'S!!!" And my reply, "Yes, Buddy, that's Nate-Nate's House."

We have some landscaping to left to do, but hopefully it will be done by the end of the weekend. We've bought everything, but now we need to find a few hours to finish.

Do you see his little hand sticking out of the window?
He's reaching for the doorbell. Yes, it has a working doorbell!!!

P saying, "Welcome to Nate-Nate's House!!! Do come in."

Afternoon Fun

2011-04-19T09:09:00.004-04:00

Yesterday MeMe picked P up from school. His afternoon with MeMe included the following:

Trip to the park, a word we have to spell if we don't want P to scream PARK and insist that we go THAT moment

Watering MeMe's flower beds~ note to self: P can do this at home, too

Run around Mr. Sean & Ms. Christine's backyard

Play with Georgia on her backyard swing set

Enjoy a banana & some cookies (because what afternoon at MeMe's isn't complete without cookies?!?!)

& lots of love & hugs & kisses from MeMe & PopPop

Southern Boy

2011-04-14T16:26:00.002-04:00

Snacktime at school

Mmmm... watermelon

Wonder if they've had a seed spitting contest yet

Is there a doctor in the house?

2011-03-25T10:38:00.002-04:00

P playing doctor at school. Momma Bear is being a good patient. I hope P is being a good doctor.

Zoo Atlanta

2011-03-01T15:25:00.002-05:00

P at Zoo Atlanta, Sunday, February 27, 2011

"Nate-Nate" & "Haddie"

This past Sunday we joined the Jenkins Family for an afternoon at Zoo Atlanta. Hadley & Nate-Nate (her nickname for him) are classmates & great friends. Brad & Todd enjoyed a few beers, Laura & I enjoyed a little bit of girl & mommy talk, and Haddie (P's nickname for her) & Nate-Nate enjoyed lots of yummy snacks & the animals.

Backyard Fun

2011-03-01T10:04:00.002-05:00

We are welcoming an early Spring at our home. P's slide has been relocated to the back deck along with his toy grill that Santa brought him, and we've been enjoying our afternoon snacks out there while the dogs sunbathe & Todd works on his "Man Cave."

Snow 2011

2011-01-24T22:45:00.002-05:00

Yes, I'm late posting this photo, but better late than never.

This photo was taken Monday, January 10, 2011.
This is P's first adventure into the 2011 snow.

What's not to love?

2011-01-24T22:33:00.004-05:00

P rearranged this dining room chair following last night's dinner. He didn't like its placement in the corner, so he put it where he thought it belonged... next to Mommy! Makes my heart melt!!

And of course this totally adorable photo follows the ones of P sticking his finger up his nose, propping his foot on the dining room table, chewing with his mouth wide open, and banging his fork, plate & cup on the table. See this post on my 365 blog for the photos of his "boys will be boys" behavior.

"I stuck!"

2011-01-18T10:14:00.001-05:00

P opened his closet door, climbed to the top of the box where he now sits, pulled a few diapers out and threw them to the floor, and then proceeded to get stuck. Here he is contemplating his next move. He wound up calling out "I stuck!"

Mommy to the rescue!!!

OSS

2011-01-05T10:52:00.002-05:00

P had his first day of Out of School Suspension yesterday. Seems he was pulling a little girl's hair (out!) and hitting a kid or two on the head with a book. Overall, he was not playing nicely. I was already on my way to get him to take him to the doctor's office for an ear infection (which, by the way, I didn't know kids with ear tubes got), so it was not a problem to keep him all day. We are chocking up his bad day to not feeling so well, and after a few long talks last night from both Daddy & me about what is expected, we don't expect any more OSS days.

Christmas 2010

2010-12-30T11:58:00.005-05:00

In no particular order, here are some photos from our Christmas season 2010.

Snow on Christmas Day! That hasn't happened in over 100 years! Mommy & P with Uncle Jeff's snowman that was especially built just for P.

My favorite photo of our sitting room Christmas tree. This tree is decorated with Granny's Hummel ornaments & those collected during our marriage.

Sunday, December 19. P & Mommy making ginger snaps & rolled ginger cookies. He cut out all the angels all by himself!

Our little angel playing an angel in his school program. They danced, clapped their hands & stomped their feet to "I wiggle, wiggle, wiggle & I praise the Lord." Too cute!!!

P & Mommy on December 15, the morning of his school program.

Mommy helping P put on the first ornament, his Santa choo-choo train. Friday, November 26. P is 18 months old today!!!

Just a few photos of P's "loot." Santa was very good to him this year.

P got a talking grill & tool set. Santa knew exactly what he would like!

He also got a "learn-to-dress" monkey named Alex, a bulldozer, and a chainsaw.

This is my favorite photo of the living room Christmas tree.

Butt

2010-11-18T11:14:00.003-05:00

As in BUTT NAKED!!!

Yesterday morning P greeted me as a butt naked little boy standing in his crib! He went to bed with just a diaper on, but at some point decided even that was overdressed. I called down the hall to Todd so he could see what I was looking at. We both just giggled at that little butt naked boy... & then decided that that was the last time he was going to bed without pajamas on.

No

2010-11-18T11:06:00.004-05:00

P is getting really good at telling us what he doesn't want. He know when & how to use the word "no."

A few weeks ago it was his nap time. He wasn't really feeling like it was naptime even though the clock most definitely said otherwise. I tried for a few minutes to cuddle with him & read his favorite books & sing his favorite songs, but he was being a very wiggly wiggle worm. This is how my attempt to get him to take a nap ended...

P, let's cuddle.

No.

P, let's sing "Here Comes Peter Cottontail" (for the 20th time that afternoon).

No.

P, would you like some juice?

No.

P, would you like to take a nap?

No.

P, would you like to play with Mommy's vacuum?

~silence~ & then he runs down the hall to our bedroom where the vacuum sits.

Apples & Applesauce

2010-11-18T11:01:00.003-05:00

October 31, 2010. IHOP.

P loves apples & applesauce. He's being saying apple for about two weeks now, and he's been eating applesauce all by himself since October 30th.

Mommy's Little Helper Proof

2010-10-22T11:39:00.004-04:00

Here's a photo of the cutest Little Mommy's Helper.

Mommy's Little Helper

2010-10-20T12:06:00.004-04:00

Nathan is such a good little helper. This morning he helped me load his laundry into the washing machine & sweep the laundry room. He wanted to start the dryer (he loves pushing buttons), but unfortunately there were no clothes to dry. Perhaps tonight I'll let him unload his clothes from the washing machine & load them into the dryer... and then he can push the buttons!

Peanut LOVES Peanut Butter

2010-10-19T09:58:00.005-04:00

Sunday was spent at home. We ate breakfast in our pajamas, P helped Daddy organize the garage (hehe), and I cooked a yummy pot roast. P also snacked on peanut butter and grape juice late in the afternoon, and let me tell you what... the boy LOVES peanut butter. He ate 3 tablespoons of the creamy good stuff, and certainly would have enjoyed even more if I had let him.

Hollow Leg

2010-10-15T12:50:00.007-04:00

My grandmother always said I had a hollow leg. As a child, I could eat & eat & eat & then eat some more. She never knew where I put all that food, so she assumed I must have a hollow leg.

And since I have/had (not sure I can eat & eat & eat that much these days) a hollow leg, Nathan has definitely inherited it from me. hehe

For dinner Wednesday night, P ate:

2 ears of corn
1 stick of cheese
9 strawberries
1/4 cup green beans
1/4 cheese quesadilla
& I'm sure I am missing something!... banana maybe?

Told you he had a hollow leg... and a Buddha belly!!!

Best Buds

2010-09-22T12:08:00.004-04:00

Look at those smiles!

Go Go

2010-09-02T09:49:00.004-04:00

For the past two mornings Nathan has taken it upon himself to walk to the car on his own. All I have to say is "Go Go?" With that simple phrase, he hops out of his high chair, toddles to the back door, and makes his way down the back steps. Once I open the back gate however, he starts RUNNING down the driveway despite my telling him "No, sir" and promising him George once he gets in the car. He's never made it to the end of the driveway though... thank God! And I really don't mind the extra minutes it takes for him to make his way down the stairs or the small heart attack he gives me in his driveway adventures because this new found "freedom" of his has "freed" me of the extra 20 plus pounds that is Nathan!!!

9, 10 & 11

2010-09-01T12:09:00.003-04:00

That's how many teeth P now has. They all appeared yesterday, or at least that's when I noticed them all. They have literally just broken through, and as usual, P doesn't let us know about it. We have to find out on our own!!

Hair

2010-09-01T11:16:00.005-04:00

Nathan styled his own hair the other evening. This was after he finished dinner but while he still had food on his hands.

Some mornings he styles his hair with banana, which of course isn't easy to wash out real quick. Oh well. He probably isn't the only kid at school with food where it shouldn't be. (Ears, anyone?)

15 Months

2010-08-30T11:19:00.017-04:00

P is 15 months old. His visit to the doctor's office last week for his well-baby check revealed the following:

He's 20 lbs, 7 ounces
He's 30.25 inches tall

The doctor was also glad to hear how active he is, how he does not have the milk allergy that we thought he did at 12 months of age, and that his verbal skills are right where they should be. At this time, he can say:

Please
Thank You
You're Welcome
Bubble
Mommy
Daddy
Banana
Where's Nathan (kinda sorta)
Dog
Baba (bottle)
Blueberry

P also LOVES to eat. Some of his favorites are:

Bananas
Blueberries
Sausage
Pasta
Green Beans
Grapes
Mandarin Oranges
Pineapple
Grape Tomatoes
Corn on the Cob

P also LOVES to play. He recently got his first set of Legos from Legoland at Downtown Disney. Todd likes to play with them after P goes to bed, so some mornings P wakes up to a new "Daddy Design." One day last week it was an "Air Stair" that they use at the airport to load passengers onto the planes. P also loves the slide that MeMe bought him. This can easily entertain him for a while. His play kitchen was recently removed from his playroom because he wasn't "playing nice" with it, but the fruit & veggie basket remains. His two favorites are corn and banana, and he eats the banana likes it's corn, and vice versa. He also loves his swing, ride around cars, pool, and water & sand table that was his birthday gift from Mommy & Daddy. And yesterday MeMe & PopPop bought him a music kit, complete with a drum, maracas, jingle bells, a tambourine & a few other goodies.

P also LOVES books. Not that he reads them, but he loves to hold them, carry them around, turn them upside down, and turn the pages. His two favorites are 'Twas the Night Before Christmas and Here Comes Peter Cottontail. I had to learn 'Twas the Night Before Christmas in school, so I am able to recite much of it to him.

P also LOVES Curious George. He has two CG videos that he watches while in the car. MeMe bought him a TV/DVD player for the car, so every morning he watches a CG clip on his way to school. He also has a CG bath book that he loves to "read" while he's in the bathtub. I even told Great-Grandmother that she should get him a CG monkey for Christmas.

P also LOVES LOVES LOVES the water. Whether it's the bathtub, the pool, the water & sand play table, the big swimming pool, or a pitcher filled with water & ice, P loves it all. We visited with my aunt in Orlando earlier this month, who just so happens to have a pool in the backyard. P played in the pool two, and sometimes three, times a day. I think he wishes we had one in our backyard. (Me too, P. Me too.) P will also climb into the bathtub whether or not there's water just so he can be near the water. One day two weeks ago he climbed in the tub while I was filling it with water. Only problem was that he had all his clothes on! That was lots of fun, huh P? And the cutest thing he does is this... he pretends there's ice in the "water pitcher" in the bathtub and he reaches in, grabs a handful, and then puts in in his mouth! He'll even share his "ice" with me. Too stinkin' cute!

I'm sure there's lots more to share about P and how he has blessed our lives and made our days loads more fun. But I think I'll save those for another post.

Corn

2010-07-26T09:46:00.005-04:00

Nathan enjoyed his first corn on the cob last night. While he wanted to eat it like a banana most of the time, he did manage to figure out how to eat the sides. Todd & I demonstrated the "typewriter technique" several times, each time with better results. I even made a short video of his efforts, and if I can figure out how to get it from my iPhone to my blog, I'll definitely post it. Too stinkin' cute!

No Fear!!!

2010-06-09T10:40:00.005-04:00

Does this face look like "uh-o, I just got caught?"

P has recently started climbing on top of things- chairs, tables, his "scooters", Camper Kitty's stool, and even his toy piano. It scares a momma. He's good at climbing; that's not the scary part. It's the getting down.

Last night, he proceeded to fall backwards off the chair he was standing on. Granted, it's only a toy chair that is about 10 inches off the floor, but still. The boy has no fear! He was like the "boss man" in the Geico commercials who falls back on the poor gecko. That was P. Thankfully I was there to catch him- always am.

This morning he tried several times to climb on top of his toy piano. The toy piano that hangs our in our bathroom so he can entertain himself while we get ready in the mornings. Yeah, the floor is hard tile. Needless to say we don't let him climb onto it. A strong & steady "no!" does wonders. He knows Momma means business!

And not sure if you can tell, but he is standing in the "scooter" in the photo above. That was last Saturday, June 5. That was his first day of climbing. He's gotten pretty good at it, and all in five days!

Happy Birthday, Nathan!

2010-05-26T12:20:00.005-04:00

Here's my birthday boy!

Look at that smile! Such a happy & joyful & funny little boy!!
We are so blessed!!!

My Mother's Day... Delayed

2010-05-18T15:02:00.007-04:00

I celebrated Mother's Day this past Sunday, May 16. Our household was sick last Sunday, so we decided to celebrate when we were all feeling better. Thankfully I didn't have to wait too long.

Sunday morning we got an early start. First stop, IHOP where Nathan enjoyed a HUGE breakfast of bananas (he ate a whole one!), pineapple, scrambled eggs, and pancakes!!! I was so happy to see him have his appetite back.

We hit the road at 10:00, and made it to Lake Oconnee around 11:30. We did a quick change into our swimsuits and loaded up the boat with coolers and beach towels and set sail.

Happy Family

P did not like his life jacket, but he did not complain too much. That's probably because Pop Pop let him drive the boat!

We quickly set anchor on "Dog Island." While Mom & I fixed lunch, P swam in the lake with Daddy. He really enjoyed the water. After lunch, P walked the beach with MeMe & me and played in the water and sand. So much fun watching him experience his "firsts."

The rest of our afternoon was spent with P enjoying a nap in MeMe's lap while looking out at the lake from a swing while I took a nap in the cabin. It was a very relaxing way to spend Mother's Day.

Sigh.

2010-04-09T15:36:00.004-04:00

P & MeMe spent the day together.

P went to the doctor. He has another ear infection. Sigh. But he now weighs 18 lbs. 4 oz., so he's moved up a little bit in the weight chart. YEAH!!!

After the doctor visit, they dined at IHOP. P ate pasta, peaches, carrots & peas. He then took a nap. (I wish I could take a nap. Sigh.)

A quick trip to The Shop to visit with Uncle Charlie was followed up with a trip to Lowe's. That's where this photo was taken. Look at that adorable little boy. Sigh.

He's now on his way back to school so he can play with his friends & eat his yummy snack of yogurt & grapefruit. (I wish I could play with my friends & P right about now. Sigh.)

At least it's Friday & I can all those things tomorrow & Sunday. YEAH!!!

Baby Steps

2010-03-22T10:43:00.002-04:00

P took his first steps Saturday evening!! His first steps were to me. Awwww, how sweet!

P went on to show off his new skills Sunday morning when he walked to MeMe & then Daddy.

And no, we don't have video. We may have a photo on Arden's camera, and if we do, I'll share it.

Standing Around

2010-03-12T16:54:00.002-05:00

Here's P practicing his stand!

Sweet Curls

2010-03-12T15:45:00.003-05:00

Look at this sweet boy's sweet curls!

Paper Eater

2010-03-12T12:49:00.002-05:00

P at the doctor's office earlier today.
What can we say? The boy likes paper!

Weekend Fun

2010-03-12T11:36:00.006-05:00

Last Weekend

Saturday morning MeMe and I took P shopping at Target. And like a big boy, P stood in the shopping cart the whole time. He held on the sides and the back of the front seat like a pro. That afternoon Nathan had his first playdate. John, a boy from P's daycare class, joined us the the park for some swing action.

Sunday was Family Day. We went to the Zoo. (I'll post pictures later.) That was fun for all. We are thinking about getting a family pass. P was more into people-watching than animal-watching, so we think we'll wait on the family pass for a while.

This Weekend

Dressed in his Easter outfit (a gift from Grandma), P will meet the Easter Bunny Saturday. Mom & I are taking him to Arbor Place Mall to see Peter Cottontail, and then we'll enjoy an afternoon of shopping & lunching.

Sunday's plans are unplanned, but I'm sure we'll find something to do. We always do.

Ready for Spring

2010-02-25T14:25:00.002-05:00

I am soooo ready for Spring. I think my new blog reflects this. What do you think?

Swinging

2010-02-22T14:53:00.003-05:00

I found this swing for Peanut at a consignment sale last Fall. Yesterday was the perfect time to get Todd to hang it. As you can tell, P enjoyed it!

Shake, Shake, Shake

2010-02-22T14:49:00.003-05:00

Nathan loves the maracas sooooo much that I ordered him his own set. I am told UPS will deliver them today. He's going to be one happy little boy tonight!

Stuck

2010-02-22T14:46:00.003-05:00

Couldn't help but laugh. Don't think bad of me.

Puppy Walker

2010-02-22T14:42:00.003-05:00

So Peanut has started walking... behind his puppy walker!

Here's a sweet photo!

Balloon

2010-02-22T14:25:00.003-05:00

Todd gave moi a sweet I Love You balloon for Valentine's Day. It was part of mine & Peanut's Valentine Express mobile. It's also been decorating Peanut's high chair for a week now.

Well, Friday night MeMe decided to let P play with it. Here's what he did...

Valentine's Day 2010

2010-02-15T12:12:00.008-05:00

Yesterday was Nathan's first Valentine's Day. He was the sweetest little Valentine.

We dined at Thumbs Up for breakfast and then made our way to Target (where else) looking for maracas. After returning home, he enjoyed a cat nap (way too short if you ask Todd & me), and then we set out on an adventure.

We spent part of our afternoon spreading a little love with our "Valentine Express." With his stroller decorated with an "I Love You" balloon, we delivered Valentines and Strawberry Cookie Lollipops to our dear neighbors.

Mom & Rich invited us over for dinner, so I brought dessert & salad. Steak, fries, salad & cake were on the menu... yummy! And a lot cheaper than a Valentine's Day meal out.

Peanut's first Valentine's Day ended with Mommy & Daddy giving him a book ("Guess How Much I Love You") and a Curious George bath book & toy. We have a routine that includes bath, bottle, book & bed, so these gifts were perfect! And as parents, Todd & I got our first Valentine's Day cards from our little Valentine. How sweet is that?

Sunshiny Days

2010-02-05T09:48:00.005-05:00

I am so ready for flip flop & tank top weather. I am ready for the golden sun to warm me all over. I am also ready for a breeze between my toes & a sunkissed face. I guess what I am really ready for is a CRUISE!

My birthday is in two & a half months, and since I haven't had a vacation* in almost a year & a half, it's time for one. And since we always go on vacation for my birthday, I am ordering up a CRUISE! How about this? I think Todd will be happy to oblige.

*And no, our vacation to Florida for Labor Day weekend last year does not count since Todd & I both suffered food poisoning. That nullifies that trip's "vacation" status.

Coconut Shrimp

2010-02-04T14:27:00.003-05:00

This MUST be a good recipe since I am actually taking the time to tell you all about it. And while we all know I am a good cook (just being honest here), you know these sweet & savory shrimp-babies must have been truly divine. Here's the recipe...

Shrimp
Salt & Pepper
Pina Colada Mix
Egg
Flour
Shredded Coconut
Sweet & Sour Sauce (found in the Asian aisle)

I bought a pound of shelled & deveined shrimp, but probably used 3/4 of it, and even that was enough for two people for two meals. I had Pina Colada mix in the house, so I thought why not. The egg & flour is just a basic breading component, and the salt & pepper is what helps with the flavors. Here are the steps...

Heat oven to 425 & grease a baking sheet with non-stick cooking spray.

Season the shrimp with salt & pepper. In a bowl, add Pina Colada Mix (I eyeballed it, but it was maybe 1/2 cup) and an egg. Whisk together. Add shrimp.

In another bowl, add flour. I cannot remember if I used AP or SR, and not sure that it even matters. Use what you've got. And in a third bowl, pour your coconut. The more the merrier, but I'm like that about food & friends. Line up your three bowls beside each other & then have your baking sheet right beside the coconut bowl.

Take the shrimp from the egg & Pina Colada mixture & transfer it to the flour. Not all at once, but by the handful should be OK. Shake to cover the shrimp & to make sure all excess flour comes off, & then toss into the coconut bowl. Coat well, & then coat well again. The more coconut the better! (Can you believe there was a time when I hated coconut?) Place shrimp on baking sheet & repeat. Bake for 15 minutes, but make sure you don't burn your coconut. Toasted is good, browned is better, and slightly darker brown is best, but no black!

Serve immediately with Sweet & Sour Sauce.

This was so easy & so good that I am even rethinking my menu for next week's get-together with our neighbors. But then again, that meat & mushroom lasagna I had planned is really awesome, too!

Another Day, Another Visit

2010-02-03T13:48:00.002-05:00

Nathan's tooth fairy visited him last night. He woke up with a 3rd tooth up top. His sweet & silly smile now has 5 teeth! & he'll soon have a 6th. We think it will make its appearance before the weekend. If so, that will be 4 teeth in 14 days!

Drum Roll Please....

2010-02-01T15:28:00.004-05:00

Peanut now has 4 teeth!!!

The fourth one made its debut yesterday.

I'll try to get a picture posted soon.

YouTube Debut!!!

2010-01-25T11:48:00.003-05:00

Hope this makes you smile & laugh!!!

Mommy's Little Helper

2010-01-25T11:42:00.003-05:00

Thank God one of us LOVES doing laundry! Neither Todd nor I can stand doing it, but it seems that Peanut LOVES it!

Sunday, January 24, 2010

Or perhaps he just likes climbing into the basket?!?!

We had another visit

2010-01-22T10:53:00.001-05:00

Nathan's tooth fairy visited him last night. Peanut now has THREE teeth!!!

Will work for food

2010-01-21T16:08:00.005-05:00

So Peanut is with me at work today. It seems his daycare doesn't understand how fevers & teething go hand-in-hand, so he wasn't allowed there today. But the good news is that by this evening, his 3rd tooth will have made its grand entrance! YEAH, Peanut!!!

So anyway, we've put him to work here. He's been dusting the floors with his belly & knees, he's helped clean & untangle the cord to my dictation machine pedal (don't ask... the boy is attracted to wires), he's also licked some of my unused envelopes closed, and he's made sure I have properly alphabetized the library. (See photo below.)

He's doing such a great job that Bob may decide to hire him & fire me! (Let's hope not. Not sure P can reach the telephone yet!)

This just in...

2009-12-28T15:25:00.002-05:00

Todd's at home with Nathan... which is where I'll be tomorrow & the rest of the week. Todd just sent me this photo...

Isn't that smile just priceless?

Santa 2009

2009-12-28T10:11:00.005-05:00

Nathan sat on Santa's lap Christmas Eve & told him what a good little boy he's been & that he wanted a rocking horse & phone for Christmas. And knowing that he has been a sweet & wonderful little boy, Santa happily obliged & brought him all that & more.

Valleys & Peaks

2009-12-09T17:01:00.004-05:00

Today started in a valley...

The power went out around 4 a.m.. It was still out when we woke at 6:20. I fed Nathan in the dark (got soaked by his first bout of projectile vomit), changed his diaper by the glow of Todd's iPhone flashlight app, and showered by candlelight. I am wearing an outfit that I wore just days ago because I couldn't iron or even see what was in my closet, and I am at work sans make-up.

Nathan & I both had doctor appointments this morning. I was looking forward to HOVing, but traffic on the interstate was at a stop, so I decided to go the back roads. That was probably a mistake since it took me 55 minutes to go 8 miles. I was late to my appointment, but thankfully we were early to Nathan's.

Nathan was diagnosed with a double ear infection and Bronchialitis, so he'll begin a 10-day course of antibiotics. Following the chat with the doctor, I decided to give him a bottle, which he quickly projectile vomited all over himself, his toys & blanket, and car seat. I was in tears, and thankfully another mom was there to hand me wipes. I couldn't even pick him up because he was covered in it and I was dressed for work. What kind of mom am I?

But it's ending with at a peak...

First, Nathan gained 10 ounces in 15 days. (He's still off the charts, so we are to continue with his feeding plan. They will see him again in 3 weeks, so hopefully he'll be almost a full pound heavier by then. Keep your fingers crossed & say a little prayer.)

Second, my mom is wonderful. Nathan is so blessed to have her as his MeMe. I am so blessed, too. Without me even asking, she volunteered Rich's services today, & she even though she only asked for Thursday off, her boss told her to take Friday too.

Third, Nathan is spending tonight with MeMe & PopPop, thereby giving me & Todd a chance to have a meal sans Peanut and my girls date night with Joan after my date with Todd to be stress-free. I'll get to do some holiday baking without having to take care of a sick baby.

It's been a stressful November & December with a sick household. Just as soon as we get well, we get sick. I know this too shall pass, but can it pass quickly? God knows I am impatient.

Which reminds me of my favorite Story People print...

"Most people don't know that there are angels whose only job is to make sure you don't get too comfortable & fall asleep & miss your life"

Tooth Fairy

2009-11-30T11:20:00.002-05:00

Nathan's had a visit from the tooth fairy. (Yes, I know the TF traditionally takes the teeth, but Nathan's TF brings him teeth. Nathan's special like that!)

Nathan got his first tooth this past Saturday, November 28. Six months & 2 days old!

And since then, the TF is planning to make another stop at our home either tonight or tomorrow.

Halloween Week

2009-11-25T07:54:00.003-05:00

We (OK, I) dressed Nathan in a Halloween outfit every day the week of Halloween. (Yes, I know tomorrow is Thanksgiving, but I can't get the costume photos off the camcorder. And since I already began drafting the post that will accompany the actual Halloween festivities & will hopefully post later today, please enjoy these photos in the meantime.)

Tuesday, October 27, 2009

(forgot to take Monday's photo... oops!)

Wednesday, October 28, 2009

(Who's your boo?)

Thursday, October 29, 2009

Cutest pumpkin in the pumpkin patch!

Big boy with his spoon

2009-11-25T07:46:00.002-05:00

Sunday, November 21, 2009

prunes

This is what happens when you let Nathan feed himself.

Big boy with his bottle

2009-11-25T07:43:00.001-05:00

Thursday, November 19, 2009

This is the handsome boy & gorgeous smile that greeted me when I got home last Thursday. It sure does make a mommy's heart smile.

Today's Medicine

2009-11-17T11:03:00.003-05:00

Last night we spent several hours at Scottish Rite in their Emergency Room. Nathan has been sick for over a week now, but his sudden lack of appetite, wet diapers, and tears caused us (& his doctor) concern. And while he certainly wasn't the sickest child there, he was my sickest child, and that's all that mattered.

And before I go into my story, let me just say that things have changed since I was a sick baby & child at Egleston. Having spent many minutes, hours, days, weeks, months (& maybe even a year or two total) at Egleston, I thought I knew what to expect. Boy was I wrong. Here's the story.

We were welcomed by The Valet (super nice guy by the way), greeted by The Receptionist, inspected by Nurse No. 1, assessed by Nurse No. 2, evaluated by Nurse No. 3, assigned to Nurse No. 4 (who by the way is THE nurse but didn't do a thing), seen by The Doctor, suctioned by Mr. Suction, and visited by The Welcoming Committee (I think that was her name, literally), but guess who we spent the most time with... yep, The Billing Office. Actually, The Billing Office came to us, worked with the computer (both in-room & laptop), and while she was very nice & polite, I really hate that she is the person Peanut spent the most time with. I also hate that The Doctor answered two phone calls (both work-related, but still) while he was talking with us and "fixing" Peanut.

In the end, we at least know he's not dehydrated today, that he either has a bacterial or viral infection that just needs to run its course (which by the way they don't know how long the course is), and that Nathan makes us all liars since he faked "I'm a healthy baby" while in the watchful eyes of all those above-named people. And all of that cost us $75.00.

Smile.

See Rock City

2009-11-11T11:53:00.004-05:00

Mom, Nathan & I spent part of Sunday at Rock City. We did a "girls' weekend" with some of Mom's high school girl friends, and Nathan was the only guy (& only baby). Check out some of our photos...

Meme, Mommy & Peanut

Wonder what P is looking at.... hmmm

Mushroom Rock

Meme showing Peanut the pretty waterfall

Meme & Peanut on the swinging bridge

So You Think I Can Dance?

2009-11-10T14:30:00.004-05:00

Mr. GQ

2009-11-10T14:22:00.004-05:00

"Is this how you want me to pose, Meme?

Make sure you get my cute side!"

"How about this? Do I look casual enough?

I'm going for the 'Hey, baby. Can I get buy you a bottle?' look."

Happy 5 Months!!!

2009-10-26T21:38:00.000-04:00

October 26... 5 months old!

Nathan "found" his foot yesterday, October 25.
Started eating solids on September 28. (So far bananas are his favorite!)
Loves to roll. Left to right, right to left. Belly to back, back to belly... doesn't matter!
Loves hanging out in his exersaucer. We call it "the circus" because it has a circus theme.
Loves taking long naps with Mommy.
Loves taking long baths with Daddy. (He may be part fish!)
Loves to talk, sing, squeal, laugh with delight & abandon. The best is his laugh when I say "I love you!" (The best!)
Loves joining us at the kitchen table. Loves feeding himself & watching us feed ourselves.
Loves everyone & everything!

More Food Photos

2009-10-26T21:35:00.003-04:00

Carrots... October 25, 2009... lunch

Such a big boy helping us feed him. And while you can't see it in these photos, he actually has carrots in his ears. How does he do that?

Montage

2009-10-26T21:29:00.002-04:00

Feeding himself & helping Daddy feed him... October 25, 2009... breakfast

Prunes... October 25, 2009... snack

Butternut squash... October 21, 2009... dinner

Silly Sippy

2009-10-13T20:54:00.007-04:00

For a couple of weeks now, Nathan has been helping us feed him. He'll grab the bottle, yank it out, & then try to put it back in. Sometimes he's lucky, but most of the time he almost puts his eye out or sticks it up his nose. Give him credit though. At least he's in the right vicinity!

Well, tonight I decided to let him practice with his sippy cup. It's a lot shorter than his bottles, & the handles make it super easy for him to hold. He did an AWESOME job of holding it, & he even managed to get it in his mouth 2 or three times. WAY TO GO NATHAN!!!

Enjoy the photos...

It's official...

2009-10-13T20:47:00.003-04:00

I'm a soccer mom!

My new ride... Chrysler Pacifica

Nathan buckled in & ready for his first ride!

Since Nathan's stroller did not fit in my car trunk, that meant that Nathan & I had to borrow Todd's SUV if we wanted to go anywhere other than Publix &/or Target, which meant that Todd wasn't able to do his weekend projects.

And since it only made sense, I got a cross-over. It's smaller than an SUV but without the label of "mini-van." Gasp. No way could I have driven a mini-van.

In case you didn't catch it...

2009-10-13T20:44:00.001-04:00

Last weekend's activities were brought to you by the letter "P"

Pajamas & Pancakes

2009-10-13T20:40:00.003-04:00

Sunday morning we enjoyed pancakes @ IHOP with Meme & PopPop. As an added bonus, Nathan got to wear his pajamas (& pumpkin bib from the day before... shhh).

Pop

2009-10-13T20:36:00.004-04:00

Nathan meet his Pop this past weekend as well. After our trip to Burt's Farm, we continued north to Hiawassee (my second most favorite place on earth) to visit with Pop. We hoped to celebrate Pop's 80th birthday with him a few weeks ago, but our schedules didn't work. I am so glad Nathan & Pop got to finally meet.

PS... How many times did I say "Pop" in that one paragraph??? Four; five if you count the title!

Pumpkin Patch

2009-10-13T20:24:00.003-04:00

This past Saturday we visited Burt's Pumpkin Farm in the North Georgia mountains. A definite must if you have small children! We had a great time picking out some pretty & some wicked looking pumpkins. Just see for yourself...

Look what we found in the pumpkin patch!

Our Little Pumpkin

Halloween Candy

2009-10-13T15:17:00.002-04:00

Dear Twix & Snickers,

Why must you be so yummy? Why must you call my name? Don't you know I am trying to lose these last five pounds of baby weight?

So, if you don't mind, the next time I am at my mom's & I walk past the HUGE bag of you little sweet treats, please don't speak to me. Seriously.

Thank you in advance for your cooperation.

CA

Handsome

2009-10-08T23:06:00.001-04:00

The pjs say it all...

Saturday, October 3, 7:07 a.m.

It's Not Easy Being Green

2009-10-08T11:53:00.004-04:00

Nathan went to school this morning looking like this...

And came home looking like this...

(I think it's time I put a few outfits in his diaper bag!)

Happy Fall, Y'all

2009-10-08T11:40:00.005-04:00

October is my favorite month. Todd & I married this month because it only made sense.

I know Fall officially starts September 20-22, depending on the year, but it doesn't seem like Fall to me until October arrives.

What do I love about Fall, you ask? Well...

Leaves changing colors
Brisk mornings & evenings
Sleeping with the windows open to welcome the crisp air in
Driving with the windows down & the heat on so my toes stay warm
Long sleeves & jeans & flip flops
Pumpkins & pies, together or not
Baking Fall treats that make my house smell like home
Halloween, especially now that we have Nathan to share it with
Festivals near & far, & even better if there's funnel cake

In honor of Fall's arrival, we snapped this photo of Nathan on October 1st.

More photos to come as we visit Burt's Farm this weekend where we'll shop for more pumpkins, enjoy a hayride, & maybe make a trip to the North Georgia mountains where we we'll have lunch with Pop & see some of those Fall leaves.
What do you love about Fall?

Charity Begins at Home

2009-10-06T12:48:00.006-04:00

I watched the 20/20 story about Albinos in Tanzania. Their stories touched my heart. We are so blessed to have a healthy child, and even more blessed to live the life that we do. Very blessed.

In addition to touching my heart, their stories also made me cry... and then reach into my wallet to make a donation. If you feel the same way I do, here's the link to Under the Same Sun.

Stats

2009-10-06T10:37:00.003-04:00

Nathan went for his 4 month old appointment last Monday. While waiting for his doctor to come in, he did no less than 50 rolls! Tummy to back, back to tummy, it didn't matter. He just wanted to move! He even did a few "army crawls" to pass the time. He seriously continues to amaze us every day.

His stats are as follows:

Length- 24 1/2"

Weight- 12 lb. 7 oz.

Head- 16"

His doctor says he's PERFECT and was in awe of his ability to move around so well so early.

The not-so-fun part of the day were the immunization shots. He got DTaP, Hib, Polio, Rotavirus and Prevnar (pneumococcal) vaccines. He'll most likely get the flu shot in late November at his 6 month appointment given that he is in daycare and kids seem to be the host organisms for all things evil. (Just kidding!)

Will work for food

2009-10-06T09:46:00.005-04:00

Last Monday at Nathan's 4-month appointment his doctor gave us permission to begin him on solids. Since last Monday he has enjoyed the following:

Peas
Carrots
Apples
Squash

Butternut Squash

Pears

I personally made the butternut squash. I will be making green beans tonight and adding that to his diet tomorrow evening, and I am thinking avocados & bananas will soon follow. He still has a jar of prunes & a jar of sweet potatoes to try, but once he finishes those jars, I plan on feeding him homemade baby food. That way it's made with love by Mommy.

PS... There are lots of photos that I will be sharing very soon. They have been downloaded to our computer at home, and of course I am writing this post while at work. So check back in the coming days. They'll be a part of this entry.

Oopah!

2009-10-06T09:27:00.002-04:00

Sunday afternoon, Nathan & I joined Joan & Joe on a field trip to the Atlanta Greek Festival. I have always wanted to go, and now with Nathan to share the day with, it was perfect timing!

We enjoyed gyros & Greek potatoes (lightly seasoned with lemon & various spices... yum) while listening to some wonderful music. The weather was perfect; not too hot nor too cold.

Nathan apparently enjoys "people watching" just as much as I do as he couldn't sit still to drink his bottle. The sights, the noises, the energy captivated him. He definitely likes to be a part of the action and to take it all in!

PS... As usual, I took my camera but didn't manage to take a single picture. We were too busy enjoying it all and living in the moment. As much as I want to remember the day in pictures, I guess I'll just have to relive it in my mind.

The First Supper

2009-10-05T23:04:00.001-04:00

Nathan joined us at the dinner table tonight. Meme fed him his dinner while he sat in his high chair. What a joy to have him enjoy a meal with us.

Lazy Weekend

2009-09-23T22:33:00.000-04:00

My guys, asleep on the couch. What a wonderful weekend.

Sunday afternoon nap.

Yummy for My Tummy

2009-09-23T22:31:00.004-04:00

While we have not introduced "solids" into Nathan 's diet just yet, we have been feeding him rice cereal in his evening bottle for almost 2 months now. It's just a little something to help him sleep a little bit longer at night. (And yes, I know rice cereal technically is a "solid," but I think of fruits & veggies when I think of solids.)

So a few weeks ago, September 3rd to be exact, we decided to see how Nathan liked rice cereal when it wasn't in his bottle. We think he liked it. What do you think?

"What is that white stuff? I hope you don't think I'm going to put that in my mouth."

"You are. Wait. That feels kinda good on my lips."

"Mmmm. I'm liking it. Thanks, Mom!"

"Do I look silly with this white stuff on my lips?"

"Good. I was hoping I would. You know how silly I am."

"I LOVE you Mommy! Thank you for feeding me this white stuff."

You're welcome, Peanut!

Roly Poly, Part 2

2009-09-21T15:40:00.003-04:00

So Nathan rolled over from back to belly Saturday afternoon. 1:00 p.m. to be exact. He was hanging out on a blanket on the floor just kicking his "happy feet" when he did it. Todd & I both got to witness this amazing feat!

YAY, Nathan! We are so proud of you.

(PS... He was only 3 months, 3 weeks, and 3 days old.... this doesn't "normally" happen until sometime between the 5th & 6th month!)

(PSS... He rolled over from belly to back at 1 month, 2 days... again, this doesn't "normally" happen until the 2nd or 3rd month!!)

Lions, Tigers & Bears, Oh My! (& Puppies, Too!!)

2009-09-20T22:38:00.003-04:00

Nathan loves playing in his exersaucer. This is where he hangs out most evenings while Todd & I cook dinner. The theme of this "saucer" is The Circus, so the sounds are playful, the colors are bright, and the toys are related to the circus... big top tent, lions, tigers & bears (oh my!), & of course monkeys. He really loves it. (Thanks for letting us borrow it, Toni.)

Anyway, the point of posting this photo is to show you just how silly he is. That's a puppy hat he's wearing, and those are the puppy's ears. There is a cute puppy face on top of the hat. Isn't that just silly & precious?

Baptism

2009-09-18T14:31:00.002-04:00

Nathan was baptized this past Sunday in the church where I was baptized and where Todd & I were married. Rev. Beth did the honors, and he smiled for her the entire time.

Following the service, we celebrated the occasion with our congregation. I made a cake and bought lemonade for all. Nathan even blessed the cake by putting his foot in it! Isn't he adorable?!?!

After church, we hosted a luncheon at our home. Many family & friends joined us in celebration, and some even got to meet Nathan for the first time. He truly is a blessed little boy to be loved by so many!

PCB or Bust!!!

2009-09-18T12:16:00.003-04:00

We took our first family vacation over Labor Day weekend. I was so excited to learn that we were going to Panama City Beach, Florida since that's where I spent literally hundreds of days frolicking in the waves & building sand castles as a young child. Now Nathan would be able to do the same.

We arrived Friday evening, and promptly put Nathan to bed. Despite our early start (we left Atlanta at 1:45 p.m.), we didn't arrive until 9:00 p.m.... along with thousands of other vacationers with the same idea. Our condo was beautiful, and right on the beach. We opened the sliding glass doors and welcomed the sound of the surf into our condo. What a wonderful start to a much-deserved & needed vacation!

Nathan woke at 6:00 a.m. (7:00 a.m. EST), so we fed him his bottle while watching the waves meet the shore, and he got his first look of the beach. Wonder what he thought of it all!! We made our way to the sand around 7:45 a.m., and after setting up Nathan's sun shade, we walked down the beach with our faces to the sun. Thankfully Nathan was wearing his awesome sunglasses!

After our walk, Todd decided that it was time for Nathan's first dip into the ocean. Of course I captured the moment on camera, and I'm glad that I got to see his sweet face as the wave rose to meet his warm body. What an expression! He's definitely going to be a beach boy!! We ended our morning with Todd building sand castles, something he hasn't done in 20 years, and Nathan kicking them down with his "happy feet!" The boy loved the sand, and certainly didn't mind having a soaking wet diaper encrusted with the powdery stuff. (That's the thing about PCB sand, it's like powdered sugar.)

We returned to the condo, where Nathan got a bath in the kitchen sink. Hehe. The sink was the PERFECT size for him, and the spray hose was perfect for washing the sand off. After a quick wardrobe change, we were off to lunch.

This is where things go from awesome to horrible.

Going for the whole nostalgia thing, I already knew where I wanted to eat at every meal. Capt. Anderson's & Angelo's for our two dinners, and at Montego Bay for one of our lunches. We decided to dine at Montego Bay for lunch this day. Horrible mistake. Horrible.

Todd & both got food poisoning!!! Without going into details, this absolutely RUINED our trip. I was sick for 2 days, and Todd was sick for 1. I almost called the restaurant and told them to send an employee over to our condo because we couldn't care for Nathan. It was all we could do to feed him. I didn't eat for almost 48 hours, and Todd was not much better. Poor Nathan spent most of the day Sunday in his bouncer, and I spent almost the entire day in bed. We did manage to get showers and get to Target... we needed to buy formula (that's another story all together), but we never made it back to the beach. I never got my family photo that was going to be on our Christmas card.

As horrible as this trip was, at least Monday morning was somewhat of a saving grace. Nathan enjoyed his breakfast on the balcony with a dolphin swimming in front of the condo, and his morning snack was greeted with a school of stingrays. He loved sitting on the balcony listening to the waves.

And so while we have both good & bad memories of our first vacation, at least we will never forget it!!

A Day with Meme

2009-08-31T16:28:00.003-04:00

Nathan spent the day with his two favorite girls this past Saturday... Mommy & Meme. It was a day filled with food & shopping. How much better can it get? (OK, Daddy could have been there, and then it would have been perfect, but this is a post about a day with Meme. Anyway...)

Mom picked us up around 9:30 and we headed to breakfast at Thumb's Up. I love that place. As we were walking down the street we joined Joe & Joan as they walked to Thumb's Up, and so we decided to share a booth. As always, we enjoyed the food & conversation.

A local yard sale seemed promising (Mom's in the market for an activity mat for Peanut), so we headed down the street to the sale. While it might have advertised what we were looking for, it did not deliver goods worth buying. Oh well.

After a quick pit stop at home to feed Nathan, we headed to Phipps Plaza. We shopped at the cutest (& expensive) children's clothing store (Jaine & Jack), and Mom bought Nathan the most adorable overall outfit. It has pirates & parrots on it. Adorable! We picked up a few more things for Nathan... daycare outfits & stuff for when he's older. The boy's closet & drawers have more clothes than mine & Todd's combined!!

Mom & I enjoyed pizza & a salad at the mall, and then we continued with our shopping. I picked up Nikki's birthday gift (which she LOVED) and Jennifer's birthday gift (which she is going to love), I got a few bras & panties, & Mom got a gift from Peanut for spending the day with us. He's thoughtful like that.

After leaving Phipps, we headed across the street to Lenox Mall. I had some returns to make and a gift card to spend. I found a cute pair of Robeez shoes for Peanut at Baby Gap, so I just had to spend that gift card. I'll have to show Ms. Mona what her gift card bought the sweet boy. I'm sure she'll get a kick out of seeing him in the puppy shoes!

We finished our day with dinner at a fundraiser for Nathan's school. Several of the local restaurants and eateries offered tastes of their dishes with the proceeds benefitting his school. I think the school raised $18,000.00; not bad for a first annual event. There was music, which Nathan loved, and lots of balloons, which Nathan loved even more.

Our long day ended with a "bottle, book & bed" for Nathan and a slice of carrot cake for Mom & me.

Sniffles

2009-08-25T12:15:00.002-04:00

Nathan's sick. Mommy's sick. Daddy was sick. What a week it has been!

It all started last Tuesday. Nathan woke up with the sniffles. Poor baby! He was all congested. Just hearing him breath made me want to hold him even closer. Later that day Todd & I both noticed that our throats were feeling a little sore. Our heads & noses were fine, but not our throats.

Since then, Nathan has woken up each morning all stuffy. He's in a happy mood, he doesn't have a fever, and he's eating well, so he just has the common cold. Welcome to daycare!!!

So a week has passed since Nathan started with the sniffles, so I called the doctor's office this morning. They confirmed what I suspected... it's just a common cold, and suggested I let him sleep with a humidifier (been doing that for 5 or 6 days now) & to give him some Little Noses saline nose spray & clean out his nose with the aspirator. Easy enough. Hopefully he'll be sniffle-free by the weekend!

Sous Chef

2009-08-20T20:45:00.003-04:00

We have a chef in the making!

Nathan joined me in the kitchen tonight! We made burgers Rachel Ray style (ground beef, grated onion, & Montreal steak seasoning), tossed salad & potatoes gratin (recipe compliments of the newest Food Network star, Melissa d'Arabian).

Wonder what he'll want to cook next?!?!

(And in case you're wondering... yes, I always wear pearls when I cook. Don't you?)

Such truth in these words

2009-08-20T10:41:00.003-04:00

From Trace Adkins's You're Gonna Miss This...

You're gonna miss this

You're gonna want this back

You're gonna wish these days hadn't gone by so fast

These Are Some Good Times

So take a good look around

You may not know it now

But you're gonna miss this

Believe me, I sing these words to myself several times a week. I know there is truth in these words. I'm not wishing any of my time with my son away. I know better than that!

Having said that though, I cannot stop the inevitable. Nathan is growing up so (too) fast. Baby boy, you better stop. Now. Mommy likes you as a baby.

I'm sure I'm going to love you as a toddler and a little boy, but for right now, Mommy loves holding you, rocking you, feeding you, singing & reading to you, watching you as you play with your hands, ears & knees (your feet are next!). I love that you are starting to hold my finger and give me a baby hug as I hold you close at night. I love the smiles & giggles that greet me each morning & each evening when I get home from work. I love watching you play in the tub as Daddy & I bathe you. You love to float like a lily pad and you especially love the "waterfall" that Mommy pours on your belly.

Nathan, I love EVERYTHING about you.

Lazy Sunday Afternoon

2009-08-16T22:12:00.006-04:00

Just before the rains came, Nathan & I enjoyed some time on the lawn. I taught him about clouds & blue skies & the breeze. He seemed to listen well. He also seemed to enjoy himself on the lawn. He's definitely a boy who loves the outdoors. Wish we had a tree for him to climb or swing from. Maybe some day.

Yummy for My Tummy

2009-08-16T22:12:00.000-04:00

BEFORE: Nathan enjoying his "Yummy for My Tummy" bottle

We listened to Nathan's pediatrician & we read the literature, but in the end we decided to listen to our moms. That's right. Mom knows best!

Nathan is enjoying a little bit of rice cereal in his evening bottle. It all started a week and a half ago, Thursday, August 6, to be exact.

We had been going back & forth with the idea of adding rice cereal to his formula for quite some time, but just couldn't bring ourselves to do it so early. (We actually asked his doctor about it at his one month appointment, but decided to wait a little bit.) The earliest rice cereal should be introduced is four months of age; he's only two & a half months old. And like I said above, we read the books & listened to his doctor... we knew what was recommended. (We also know that tummy sleeping is a big no-no in today's parenting world, but we do it anyway. That's another story for another day, but at least now you know that we don't follow the rules.) But since our mothers put a little something-something in our evening bottles to help us get a good night's sleep, and since we're both alive & well thankyouverymuch, we thought we'd go ahead and give it a try.

And let me tell you what... Nathan is sooooo happy that we did. Can't you tell by the expression on his face?

AFTER: Nathan saying, "Now that's what I'm talking about!"

Please don't tell me

2009-08-12T12:14:00.002-04:00

Nathan will be crawling soon. Very soon. In a matter of weeks, or so it seems. That's what Miss Ashley at daycare tells me. I know it will probably happen when I'm not watching.

I know someone else (probably Miss Ashley) will see his many firsts... first time crawling, first time sitting up on his own, first steps. All those firsts that neither Todd nor I will witness for ourselves. And since I have to be OK with that, all I ask is that Miss Ashley please not tell me.

Right Place & People

2009-08-12T11:47:00.003-04:00

Nathan started daycare earlier this week. He attends The Learning Academy in College Park. This facility (it is also a school) is part of our church. That was part of the reason we decided that it was the best place for him.

Another reason was that our very good friend Lorrie works there. She is a very special person to me, and I know that Nathan is special to her. And not that she watches him during the day (she hangs out with the 2 year olds), but she encouraged us to place Nathan in their care. She knows that he is my heart.

It also doesn't hurt that we know several of the families that entrust TLA with the care of their children. Knowing that Nathan would be socializing with these families outside of daycare was another wonderful thing that lead us to choose TLA.

Monday wasn't that hard for me. I'm thinking that maybe it should have been. Everyone has been asking me how I am doing. My response is "I'm fine. He's happy, loves his teachers, & loves the other kids." In my heart I am happy, too. I know we chose the right place & people to care for him.

A Love Letter from Nathan

2009-08-06T17:03:00.003-04:00

Dear MeMe,

Thank you for loving me. & thank you for...

buying me the cutest clothes & letting me wear my Rock Star sunglasses.
taking me shopping with you.
taking me to have lunch with Mommy & meet her co-workers & work friends.
spending your last days of summer vacation with me.
letting me nap on you because you know I love to cuddle.
cuddling with me whenever & wherever because you know that's what I want & need.

I'm so glad you're my MeMe.

Love, Nathan aka Peanut

I miss my boy!!!

2009-07-31T15:46:00.003-04:00

Nathan is sleeping through the night now. Last night he slept from 8 pm to 7 am. That's 11 hours! That's too long!! I miss my boy!!! I am used to loving on and feeding him at 11 pm and again at 3 am. Don't get me wrong, I don't mind getting sleep; I just hate that I am not spending as much time with him these days (& nights).

2009-07-30T21:38:00.005-04:00

Nathan had his two month doctor's visit today. We learned that he now weighs 10 lbs. 2 oz. and is 21 3/4 inches long. He's still perfect.

Dr. Griffith was very impressed that he is sleeping through the night, and she is amazed at how well he holds his head up. (As a side note, Nathan held his head up for 4 minutes earlier this week during tummy time!)

Oh, he also got his first set of immunization shots. The boy was a real trooper. He only screamed for 5 seconds (really), and then fell asleep in Todd's arms before we even made it out of the doctor's office! (Probably doesn't hurt that we gave him some baby Tylenol before the appointment... we knew what we were getting into!) He then spent the day with Meme, who continued to drug... I mean give him his medicine... every few hours.

Nathan's day ended at 8 p.m. following a bottle and me singing to him. When I went to check on him at 9, this is what I saw...

Drugged from his 7:30 dose

His Future's So Bright...

2009-07-30T21:06:00.003-04:00

He's Gotta Wear Shades!

I found this adorable pair of sunglasses @ my favorite store... Target. Only $1.74 before tax.

Nathan loves them, and he especially loves the compliment he gets when he wears them. In fact, today he wore those stripped booties with the animal face rattles and these sunglasses to the doctor's office. Dr. Griffith and her nurse thought "Rock Star!" Only thing left to do is spike his hair into a mowhawk and he'll officially be the coolest baby ever. I'm seriously thinking about do it, so when I do, I'll be sure to take a photo or two and share them with you. Everyone is going to want to be this kid's friend because he's so cool.

Oh, and when he wears them, I call him "Stevie"... you know, Stevie Wonder. Too silly!

Hush Little Baby (Too)

2009-07-21T12:26:00.003-04:00

Last week I posted the words to Nathan's favorite lullaby, Hush Little Baby. I sing him to sleep every night with these classic words. However, starting today I am going to lull him to sleep with these words instead...

Hush little baby, don't say a word,

Mama's going to show you a hummingbird.

If that hummingbird should fly,

Mama's going to show you the evening sky.

When the nighttime shadows fall,

Mama's going to hear the crickets call.

While their song drifts from afar,

Mama's going to search for a shooting star.

When that star has dropped from view,

Mama's going to read a book with you.

When that story has been read,

Mama's going to bring your warm bedspread.

If that quilt begins to wear,

Mama's going to find your teddy bear.

If that teddy bear won't hug,

Mama's going to catch you a lightning bug.

If that lightning bug won't glow,

Mama's going to play on her old banjo.

If that banjo's out of tune,

Mama's going to show you the harvest moon.

As that moon drifts through the sky,

Mama's going to sing you a lullaby.

Author Sylvia Long shares these words with us in the hopes that we teach our children to appreciate the beauty in nature and the genuine love between a mother and her child, and not to focus on buying our children things and teaching them to be materialistic. I share her sentiments, so I share her words with you. I hope you enjoy!

Mr. Mom

2009-07-21T12:06:00.001-04:00

So while I'm out with the girls, Todd stayed home to play Mr. Mom with Nathan. They enjoyed some father & son bonding, Todd was able to watch a few movies, and Nathan was able to get in some tummy time and lots of TLC. I'd say it was a good day for them both!