The Mom Jeans Memoir

eleven/eleven/eleven

2011-11-29T10:31:00.002-06:00

Halloween and Baby #2

2011-11-06T12:49:00.003-06:00

Here's our little Sheriff! He was SO adorable I don't even know what to do with myself. We didn't do a lot of trick-or-treating this year. Three houses. Two were the grandparents. But, he enjoyed himself and actually made it home with a TON of candy. Ah, the life of the only grandchild! He's had a really good run. Next year we'll do more for sure.

A little baby #2 update:

We're scheduled for an induction on 11/11/11! (if we make it to friday) We're getting geared up around here. And by "we" I really mean me. Lots of laundry, charging of camera batteries, packing of bags, freezing of meals, stocking of shelves and general house cleaning. Meanwhile, Daddy is spending his weekend on the couch with a little stomach bug and Dean is recovering from a nasty cold. Not ideal but, we are grateful that our parents are so close and SO HELPFUL! We love them and appreciate them more than they know!

I'm also so grateful for such a sweet, loving, happy and adaptable 2-year-old! Dean, I love you and adore you and thank you for hanging in there with Mommy, even when she's big and fat and doesn't want to do anything fun. Even when she can't bend down comfortably to play trains with you. And, especially when her patience is running thin. I'm sorry and I love you. You are the best and I couldn't ask for anything more.

Baby #2 is getting bigger everyday (praise the Lord!), kicking my right side non-stop and moving around every time he hears his big brother yell, talk or play....which is a lot. :) I'm so excited to introduce Dean and the baby. What a moment that will be. Wow. Please keep us in your prayers this week. Specific prayer requests for a safe and healthy delivery and baby AND for a speedy and full recovery of Daddy & Dean so everyone is on their game by Friday!

See you soon!

Lions & Tigers & FROGS! Oh my!

2011-10-25T12:11:00.004-05:00

This morning was Dean's Noah's Ark Parade at school. (We borrowed the adorable frog costume from a sweet friend! Thanks Alix!) I was about 98% sure he'd throw a fit when I tried to dress him in it, and he didn't disappoint. I handed the costume to his teacher and said, "you can TRY to put it on him but, I'm not sure he's going to go for it."

I took my place in the lobby along the parade route and waited for my little guy to come out dressed as himself. But, apparently there was some magic teacher voodoo that happened because Dean rolled out fully dressed in the costume. EVEN in the hat. I was dying. I don't know how they did it?!

He was such a cutie pie and I got some great shots of our frog!

Happy Fall!

2011-10-17T11:18:00.003-05:00

Dean: 25 mos. (completely uninterested in having his picture taken with Mommy)

Mom: 28 years (slightly tired of carrying a pumpkin under her shirt all day)

Baby Boy #2: 35 weeks (almost ready for his big debut!)

Daddy: 28 years (not pictured but, also very ready to meet his second son)

I'm Back...

2011-10-06T13:44:00.005-05:00

"I'm back," probably isn't the BEST title for this post because:

A) I physically never left.

B) I'm getting more pregnant by the minute and, let's be honest, mentally I'm more than a bit checked out.

C) This is just my half-hearted-I-feel-guilty-for-not-posting-in-over-a-month post.

If that doesn't get you excited to read the rest of my post...well, sorry.

But, we have had a whole stinkin' lot going on. Since my last post we hosted a Baylor couples weekend at the lake, I co-hosted a bridal shower, my brother got married, my first born turned 2, and started Mother's Day Out, AND went to his first dentist appointment. Oh, and I turned 28 and entered my 3rd trimester somewhere in there, as well. There's been a lot of activity which also means a lot of excuses NOT to blog. But, I'm going to give myself a break on this one...I'll save my usual mom-guilt and harsh self-criticism for another day.

NOW for a little photo dump to get you up-to-speed:

This was our 2011 Baylor lake crew. They are all so much fun and such a blessing. We only wished we all lived closer to each other.

Our big 2-year-old! We got him a train table this year and it is by far his FAVORITE gift. Yippee for Thomas!

First day of Mother's Day Out. It was just like everyone tells you. The first day's drop-off is rough on the little one and Mom. The second day? You're there 10 minutes early to drop-off and you're racing out the door to enjoy your new found freedom. Yes, we BOTH love MDO. (Isn't he the cutest little stinker!?)

9-9-11 started out with a birthday breakfast and play session at Chik-fil-a with our main man, Scotty.

After breakfast we headed to the Children's Museum with Scotty and played and played and PLAYED! They had so much fun.

We opened lots of gifts and blew out candles with Ya-Ya and "Days."

We then opened MORE gifts and blew out MORE candles with Peach, Big, Nanny & Poppa Brown. Most spoiled grandchild in America? I think so.

Celebrated our wonderful Daddy at "Dads and Donuts Day" at school.

Still loving our swim lessons. And still mastering our skills on the big slide.

Dean's first dentist visit. Completely hysterical. Start to finish.

Ya, I'm in the home stretch. This is one of those moments you hear the picture sound go off on your phone and then immediately hear your husband giggling like a girl. Dork.

Here is our littlest guy. We have (finally) decided on a name and we're looking forward to meeting him VERY soon! :)

And, here are my two handsome dates for my brother's wedding.

yet another bold move toward being a big boy

2011-08-09T20:59:00.003-05:00

Me: Hi, this is Dean. And, he needs a haircut. Well, not really a haircut, just a little trim.....I don't like to call it a hair-CUT.

Barber: Ok.

Me: Really though, don't cut his curls off. Seriously, I cried the last time someone did that. It was a disaster. He looked like he was 3 or 4 and really he's not even 2, yet. Well, he'll be 2 in a month but, you get the picture, right?

Barber: (odd look) Yes, ma'am.

Me: I like it longer. You know not too short or anything. MAYBE, like a 1/4"-1/2" off. (I grab a piece of his hair between my fingers to show him specifically what that looks like to me)

Barber: Yes, ma'am. The curls are staying. Mom likes the curls. Hey, big man. Hop up here and let's do this thing.

Me: Well, ACTUALLY (the barber picks him up and places him in the chair) he likes to sit in my lap during his haircuts. He gets nervous and really doesn't like the clippers. (At this point the smock is on and the dum-dum is in his mouth) I'd hate to cause a scene.

Barber: Are you sure about that, mom? I think he's going to do it all by himself today.

Me: (in my head) All by himself?! ALL BY HIMSELF? TODAY? Well, I'll give it 30 more seconds and then I'm sure he'll remember how much he hates those clippers around his ears. THEN he'll need me. For sure. No doubt. He'll need me.

(Insert video of Dean doing just fine with clippers here)

Barber: Man, this is big-boy-stylin' today. Mom, he's really doing great.

Me: He sure is. Go Dean. Big-boy-style. woo-woo.

Me: (in my head) He's doing great without me. That IS good but, I also want him to cry. And need me. And he doesn't anymore. Great. Am I going to cry? Oh my goodness, I'm going to cry. This is a moment. Hold it in. Suck it in.

Barber: How am I doing mom? You ok with the look we've got goin' over here?

Me: No, I'm not. Wait, ummm, ya-ya lookin' good. Lookin' good.

He's killing me softly, folks.

Recent Firsts

2011-08-03T14:58:00.005-05:00

Dean's First Astros Game! It was definitely way to early for him to truly enjoy a baseball game but, we had great seats & thought he might enjoy a hot dog. And ice cream. And he did. The game? Not so much. He did get a kick out of the big choo-choo train though. He also enjoyed tooting and stinking up our seating area so badly that I'm sure those around us found it difficult to believe that those smells came out of a little boy and not his big pregnant mom. We left during the third inning. Maybe next year?

Dean's first sno-cone. This was a slam dunk. There was not a lot of talking. Not much movement. Just spoon to mouth, spoon to mouth.

I was (finally) able to finish my first commissioned painting for Jo & her husband! Thanks, Jo, (if you're reading) for your patience with this new artist. Painting for someone else adds much more pressure - but, I did enjoy creating a piece for some one's home. It is now in the process of being crated & shipped to it's new home in Australia! Yippee!

Dean's last time sleeping in his crib and first time sleeping in his big boy bed happened last week. I cried. I cried while I was reading him bedtime stories in his big boy bed. Michael had to come fill in because I was getting super emotional - and Dean couldn't understand why reading Elmo was making me sad. I couldn't help it. He's almost 2, he's moved on from the crib, he's starting mother's day out, I bought him a lunch box this past weekend...it's all kind of happening at once and it takes me by surprise. Everyone tells you the grow up fast but, they REALLY DO! The transition has tapped me out. The first night he was out and back in bed (I counted) 84 times. I had back spasms the next day. But, here we are on week two and we've made serious improvement. He was only out of bed twice last night! I went with the Super Nanny method. There is probably a great book out there I should have read but, I just decided to go for it. The funny thing is I thought getting him to nap in his crib was tough. I know when he starts potty training I'll laugh and say, "Whew, and I thought the big boy bed was hard!" I have a sneaking suspicion that these transitions aren't going to get easier. (eek, I just mentally pictured him moving into his college dorm. I must stop. I'm tearing up.)

A weekend without the kids

2011-07-25T14:47:00.005-05:00

We spent the weekend with some of our neighbors soaking up the sun (I really soaked up way too much) and enjoying each other's company without the company of our small boys. I will say, when I first moved into our neighborhood I was sceptical about meeting couples that were our age. But, God has really provided us with some great friendships that are conveniently located within walking distance of us. And, since our lives will be slowing down a bit with the new baby this fall, I'm really trying to focus some energy on having fun with friends! We boated, floated, golfed, got our nails done, enjoyed the pool, ate some delicious meals together and most importantly got a chance to relax just a bit! Here's what six parents on their "off-time" looks like...

Mr. Z

Dad can do tricks too, Dean!

Deanna & Christine

The Cresaps

Mr. Cresap trying his hand at boat dock swing

The normally hard-working moms

Nathan's Mom & Dad

Scotty's Mom & Dad

Dean's Mom & Dad

2011-07-12T14:03:00.003-05:00

Oh my. There are no words to describe my love of Pinterest. It's amazing and I love it to pieces. I would take time to explain it a little more for those of you who have never heard of it but, that would really cut down on my actual Pinterest time. Sorry. Here are some of the images I've been Pinning lately...

I have a board called "She can do no wrong." It's all my favorite Kate pictures. It's true, she can do no wrong. I love her.

Fun table ideas for future parties and showers.

Such a creative idea for adding some fun to a plain envelope.

This is brilliant. Maybe the next house?

Fun birth announcement ideas.

Cute sibling photography for future.

This one is on my "Maternity looks I don't totally hate." This girl looks adorable. Clearly this is her first child because her button down is still buttoned up completely and there are no large stains on her - and it appears to be midday. Maybe I'll give this a whirl on my off day. ;)

I'm a sucker for chevrons. I'd take one of these in every color of the rainbow.

Great nursery ideas. I love this book wall.

ALMOST the boy on the milk carton

2011-07-11T14:42:00.002-05:00

Let me start my little story by saying that I know most moms have their own version of this same nightmare. This was comforting in the aftermath of our little "Nordstrom incident" on Friday. So, THANK YOU to all the sweet moms who shared their stories with me in an attempt to make me feel a little better. It helped.

We headed to Nordstrom on Friday morning to shop around a bit.....ok, ok we headed to Nordstrom because I wanted a new pair of sandals. But, we ended up on the third floor in the kid's shoe section trying on Crocs with a Lighting McQueen charm-thingy on it. I'm such a sucker - I know. I sat Dean down with his new shoes on to color and look at the fish tank 3 feet away from me. I turned to hand the cashier my card and turned back around to an empty little chair. I darted around the shoe section looking for him and FULLY expected to see him pop out from behind a chair. After realizing he was not in the shoe section I began to get hysterical. I remember repeating, "My baby is gone. My baby is gone! MY BABY IS GONE!"

Folks, there are no words to describe the fear and adrenaline that take hold of your body when you cannot find your little one.

So, the louder and more unglued I got, the more moms in the store began to notice. The sweet guy helping us called someone and said, "We have a code 7 on the third floor." I then instructed one mom to stand at the exit (which is right by the shoe section) and, "don't let anyone leave with a kid!" I then sprinted toward the escalator all the while thinking he was about to put his precious little fingers in the moving parts and get his arm ripped off. Just as I got there the escalator came to a screeching halt. Apparently, they shut off the escalators when a mom can't find her little one. Thank goodness for that. I then ran through a women's clothing section and began flipping up the clothes on the rounders.

No. Dean.

I continued screaming his name thinking he would pop out of somewhere. By this point a few other sweet moms had begun to call his name and help me search. After about 2-3 solid minutes of screaming and sprinting one mom yelled, "I'VE GOT HIM!!!!"

Music.

She had found him in a women's fitting room....laughing. I rounded the corner in tears, shaking and hugged him tight. I scooped him up and hugged the mom who had found him. When I finally stopped sprinting, baby #2 would not stop moving. Poor kid. He probably thought I had decided to take some sort of upper and go run a 5K!? I hope I haven't already damaged his psyche.

I returned to pick up the contents of my purse and pay for his new shoes that apparently give him the super-human powers to run faster than a speeding bullet and make himself invisible. Sheesh.

I'm so grateful to the sweet moms who spread out and help me look for him. They are angels. I was going bananas in that moment and I'm so glad they were there to look in all the places I probably should have checked first.

So in the wake of that experience I'm now in the market for a kid leash. Does anyone out there have any good kid leash suggestions? Actually, if I could, I'd just put a chip in his neck so I can track him from my cell phone or something. Kinda like baby Lo-Jack. Hey, with another little boy on the way I think these type of precautions are the only thing keeping me from going completely grey haired before my next birthday.

Here's a recent picture of the ultimate hide-and-seek winner....

Lake Rat

2011-07-06T13:05:00.004-05:00

Our Fourth of July was lots of fun! Dean turned into a little lake rat on us and decided that he would try everything that mom & dad allowed him to try. He went for a ride on the jet ski, he drove the boat, he hung off the front of the boat, he jumped off the boat dock with dad, he floated in the lake and he did lots of swimming in the pool. This made for a very exhausted mom & dad. There weren't any fireworks to watch this year but we were having so much fun they were hardly missed.

It seems that over the past few days Dean's vocabulary has really exploded. It made the weekend even more special to listen to him say new words and really perfect some of his current vocab. It also scares me to death that he is now trying to repeat every. word. I. say. He was in my bathroom drawers the other day and I told him, "Nope. Mommy doesn't want you playing in here." And he immediately opened a different drawer and repeated, "Nope!" and then closed the drawer. This was repeated about 2o0 times. Times are changing that's for sure!

Hope everyone had a safe and fun Fourth of July!

Cars 2

2011-06-27T14:37:00.002-05:00

This weekend we took Dean to see his first movie - Cars 2! It was fun to see him experience watching a new movie in the theater. To my surprise, he never got really scared by the loud volume or the dark. Turns out, when you feed him Crunch n' Munch he'll do just about whatever you want him to. We lasted for about 1 hour of the movie and then went home for a nice long nap/sugar crash. Lots of fun! I'm still an original Cars fan - the sequel was lacking the fun music and funny characters. But, I'm sure we'll own this movie the day it comes out on video and it'll eventually grow on me.

Iphone Pictures

2011-06-14T13:34:00.005-05:00

I've been so bad lately about taking out my camera and taking pictures. I DID get a few pictures of Dad's 28th backyard birthday celebration - see below. But, for the most part, I've been lazy. We have tons going on around here....new carpet (so fun!), trying to pick a paint color for Dean's new room, a new color for the nursery (because I'm SO SICK of the green color that's in there now), doc appointments, a wedding, a lake trip, swimming lessons etc... We're having lots of summer fun around here!

A baby boy #2 update: I had an OB appt today. I'm 17 weeks and all is well. Hallelujah! I started feeling him kick around 15 weeks (I didn't feel Dean until about 18-20 wks) and - drum roll please....I've only gained 3lbs so far! Double Hallelujah! Now, this could all change at my next visit but, for now, I'm enjoying this small victory and hoping this means I won't reach whale status by November. Healthy baby & not a ton of weight gain (yet) - best. news. ever.

Enjoy some recent pictures....

Enjoying the water slide until they got kicked off. :( Boo!

New carpet! You really had to live on the old stuff to truly appreciate the new stuff. So soft!

Water table in the shade.

Our little stop at BU a few weeks back. Love the sound of those bells!

Sipping a "Beet & Berry" smoothie. Sneaking in a veggie at every turn! :)

Lazy cartoon watching morning.

Daddy's Slip 'n Slide Birthday

A little quiz for you...

2011-06-07T13:42:00.005-05:00

Alright folks, I have a little quiz for you. Don't get nervous - it's not hard. Promise. What do I now have in common with these ladies...

No, I've never shaved my head. Duh. Keep guessing.

No, no, no I haven't dyed my hair dark brown. Guess again.

Nope, I haven't started my own clothing line.

Nor, have I recorded any hit albums. Keep guessing.

And, no, you won't see me on any sitcoms in the near future.

Stumped? Alright, let's see if these pictures help you out at all....

Yep, that's right.

We're having ANOTHER BOY!

We actually found out this special little tidbit three weeks ago. The ultrasound tech told me she was 99% sure it was a boy. But, we wanted to wait for the "confirmation look" which was today. Plus, it's taken me about three weeks to get used to the idea of having TWO little boys - I was sure this was going to be my girl. But, when I heard the news again today I was really excited, and, of course, Michael was too!

I'm looking forward to having another healthy little boy to love and chase after.

He's a blessing for sure.

Big Boy Room

2011-06-05T13:58:00.003-05:00

I have spent the last three weeks racking my brain and scouring the Internet trying to find ideas for Dean's big boy room. And FINALLY I stumbled across LayBabyLay. Just what I've been looking for!!!!! Joni's mood/inspiration boards are seriously amazing. Her "Steve McQueen Vintage" board is the direction I'm going for Dean's big boy room. It's the perfect marriage of what I love (cute, fun, non-matchy-matchy rooms that have some amazing art) and what Dean loves (Cars & Lightening McQueen). Perfection! Check out her site!!

Mommy & Dean's 2nd Annual Tour of Texas!

2011-06-01T14:25:00.007-05:00

We're back! While Michael was "down under" last week we took off to visit some of our favorite people. We started the week in Fort Worth visiting my best college friends Jess & Marlo and we stopped by TCU to visit Uncle Carson too. Carson showed us around campus but, having visited Baylor a few times, Dean just wasn't that impressed with what TCU had to offer. But, he loved seeing his Uncle anyway. Dean also got to see baby Charlotte (Jess' daughter) and love on her for a few days. He was such a sweet boy and did nothing but give her hugs and kisses. This made mommy VERY happy! After a few days in Fort Worth we made our way to Austin but made a crucial stop at BAYLOR on the way! It was fun because campus was completely empty. We got to stretch our legs a bit, look at the bears, play in a new fountain and (of course) get some new Baylor gear at the bookstore. After a few days at the lake where we got to meet the cutest bulldog puppy we've every seen, we headed back home to pick up our favorite guy at the airport. We all spent most of the weekend recovering from our fun travels. I'm so glad we're all back under one roof!

Last Weekend in Photos

2011-05-19T14:10:00.003-05:00

Perfect Saturday

2011-05-14T20:45:00.005-05:00

I'm exhausted, my back hurts and I just finished cleaning fecal matter out of the tub BUT this mom is happy. I spent all day with my boys having fun and snapping up a million pictures of everything we did. My camera class seems to be paying off because I'm trying more with my camera and having more fun taking pictures! There's more to come but here's a teaser...

Our little boy is pooped! (get it?)

p.s. this is pre-accident (for those of you concerned)

20 months

2011-05-13T13:59:00.004-05:00

Here is a little laundry list (mainly for my record keeping) of all the fun things our big boy is up to lately:

- his favorite foods include: chicken & ketchup, turkey & ketchup, fish sticks & ketchup, ketchup a la carte, beans, yogurt, applesauce, cookies, goldfish crackers, raisins, fig newtons and the pureed fruit/veggie squeeze packs (this is the only way he will eat veggies) **Side note: Yesterday, I told him that the raspberries on his plate were cookies and he actually ate one.

- he is still saying lots of fun words: bird, hi, bye, mamadada (he has mushed together the two words when he addresses his parental unit), Nemo, Bambi, car, cookie, up, out, down, more, milk, two (he refuses to say any other numbers), and cool

- he is very sweet and loves to blow kisses. He does the hand motion and says, "MWUAH!" I have to get this on tape. It melts me every time.

- he adores his dada. When dad walks in the door in the evenings Dean is completely energized and over the moon. They play trucks & cars, they watch a bit of a movie together, they play games in the yard...it's very sweet and makes this mommy very happy.

- his favorite book is Parts (thank you Sarah Joseph!). He loves the page that says "something gray and wet fell right out of my NOSE!" I'm learning to love the boy humor.

- we are still working on his separation anxiety. I know he's going to get better but, for now he doesn't like it when mommy leaves. (and I secretly love it)

- he's developed a funny.....quirk? He has started to sniff Michael & I. He walks up to us and will put his nose on us, audibly sniff, and then look up with a big smile. It's hysterical and we always sniff him back. I'm sure I'll be getting a call from his teacher this Fall about him sniffing classmates or glue or something.

- he also seems to fancy licking lotion off of himself and trying to eat hand sanitizer at The Little Gym. I'm sure this will be another call from his teacher.

- he still enjoys Ms. Pat and The Little Gym. He doesn't enjoy his new "Tadpole" swimming class without mommy in the water yet. But, I know he'll get there. I (of course) am LOVING his new swimming class because I stay nice and dry!

Needless to say, we are enjoying every moment with our big 20-month-old. He is loving and sweet and exuberant and has such a good heart - what more could we ask for!? We are trying to enjoy the simplicity of just having one child because there is definitely an expiration date on that. Dean still doesn't understand it when we talk about the baby in mommy's belly but I know he's going to be a great big brother. We will be finding out the sex of baby number two in June and I am equal parts excited and nervous - our family is definitely going to be changing and we feel very blessed.

Mother's Day 2011

Sweet boy.

Easter

2011-05-07T13:00:00.006-05:00

I've been working on a huge Easter post all week and I'm still far from being done. So, here's the short version with fewer pictures:

Easter was great this year. We spent Saturday morning with my family eating brunch at Royal Oaks and enjoying their big Easter party for the kids. There was a petting zoo, egg hunt, Easter bunny, a DJ, cookie decorating and lots of yummy food. Saturday evening we ate at my in-laws house and enjoyed yet another fun egg hunt and more yummy food. Easter Sunday was just the three (err, well, four I guess) of us. We went to church, lunch and a had the third and final egg hunt in our front yard. The Easter bunny was good to Dean this year and brought him a giant chocolate bunny, a book about being a big brother, the Bambi movie, eggs full of mini M&M's, Fruit Loops, Hot Wheels, Play Doh and some Moon Sand. We had a very blessed Easter and we're so lucky that all of our family lives close so we can see them on holidays like this!

Here he is checking out the baby chicks and ducks. I love this picture because it's equal parts precious and completely naughty. I love his face.

Rare family photo.

His first Easter egg hunt! He did fantastic and found LOTS of eggs. He had plenty of family cheering him on!

Royal Wedding Fever!

2011-04-27T14:18:00.004-05:00

It's full-on 24-7 coverage of the royal wedding around here. My pregnancy with Dean had me in a deep relationship with all things NBA and LeBron James. This time around it looks like the royal wedding is going to be my "thing." After hours of Internet searching I found the single piece of wedding memorabilia that I couldn't live without. Here it is....

I love it. I haven't decided if I will be up at 4am or not. But, last night I got up at 4 to use the bathroom and thought, "hey, I can do this." Plus, it might be the only time I can watch the whole spectacle in its entirety without interruptions. I can't wait to see what her dress is going to look like, how she'll do her hair, her jewelry, etc.... SO EXCITED!

Jello

2011-04-23T16:33:00.003-05:00

I know I'm biased but, I think this could be a viral video. It cracks me up every time I watch it. We were eating dinner last Friday at Luby's (weird pregnancy craving I can't explain) and we got Dean some blue Jello. This was his first encounter with Jello and he really loved it!

New Baby!

2011-04-14T13:36:00.003-05:00

After a bit of a hiccup this week that landed me in the doctor's office for a quick ultrasound (everything is OK!) we got to see baby #2 for the second time. Last time he/she was a little dot - really not worth an entire post. But, now there are arm & leg buds and alien-looking eyes. He/she was moving all over the place during the ultrasound which was just as cute as it was reassuring. So place your bets now....boy or girl? We'll hopefully be able to find out the sex sometime in June.

Who needs a pool?!

2011-04-07T15:41:00.002-05:00

This is all I have the time/energy to post. Most of our afternoons are spent outside running in the sprinklers, playing with the new water table and making me chase him into the street and spank him. Happy Spring!

Long Time No See

2011-04-01T14:27:00.007-05:00

In case you haven't noticed, I've taken a bit of spring break from blogging. However, lots has been going on. We've visited with friends, continued swimming lessons, enjoyed The Little Gym, attended a few fantastic birthday parties and we joined my parents, brother and his girlfriend on a little trip to Mexico. Here are some pictures...

We ran up and down the beach

Even Lightning McQueen made the traveling squad

We enjoyed the cozy beds

Too cool for school

We did LOTS of swimming and splashing

Playing on the beach was fun and exhausting

We spent some quality time with our favorite guy in the world, Daddy!

Played in the sun with Peach and Big

Wrote a few words in the sand...

And got a new t-shirt for my trip....

That's right...our little boy is going to be a BIG BROTHER in November! We feel very blessed to be expecting another little bundle and we're looking forward to being a family of four. This second little one is the main reason for my spring blogging break. I haven't been feeling up to doing too much. But, now I've got a few anti-nausea meds and I'm ready to get back in the swing of things. Stay tuned for more baby updates soon!

Recently...

2011-02-28T14:59:00.004-06:00

This weekend there were some great-grandparents in town! Michael's grandparents came to visit and meet D for the first time. It was a lot of fun getting to catch up with everyone and D (of course) enjoyed entertaining.

Great-Grandpa Harry

Great-Grandma Marge

We've also been trying to enjoy this beautiful weather as much as possible!

In this picture he is chasing after and clapping at some birds in an effort to scare them away. It's hysterical.

Bravo!

2011-02-18T14:53:00.003-06:00

GO DAD!

The Boys

2011-02-17T13:54:00.004-06:00

Tonight, these two gentlemen have a date. They will be taking their first swim lesson together. They're thick as thieves. Hopefully I'll get a few good shots of the boys in action. I'm very excited to be sitting on the opposite side of that mirrored glass watching in my dry clothes.

17 months

2011-02-15T14:50:00.002-06:00

Here is a little glimpse of Dean at 17 months:

- cars. he LOVES hot wheels. he also really loves the pixar movie, cars. lightening mcqueen is his main man. he plays cars on the coffee table everyday. he's also gotten quite good at making car noises. such a boy thing.

- he's a dancer. music gets him moving.

- about 2 months ago Dean officially dropped his morning nap. which I was nervous about but, it's actually wonderful.

- swimming lessons. we've been in swim lessons for about one month now and today D was promoted to the starfish 2 class. his teacher told me, "Dean is what we call an eager swimmer." however, she forgot that he can't swim. which means he's an eager boy who has no fear of the water. our goal is for him to be able to float on his back with ease by the summer. fingers crossed.

- talking is still a slow moving process for us. this week he said bubbles which sounded like bubba. baby steps.

- we have a climber. he tries to climb on everything.

- he spends quite a bit of time in the time out chair. see above.

- his little personality is showing more and more. lately, if you are not sitting, standing, or doing what he wants you to, he will try to shove, push and move you into the correct spot. it's hysterical and very bossy. hmm, wonder where he gets that?

- the other day at tiny tots and tunes he pushed a kid over and immediately threw his head back laughing and patting his chest. he of course did this in the middle of the circle with all the other moms watching in horror. he never does that kind of stuff in the corner when no one is looking. the whole thing made me sweat.

- he is a goof ball in front of his grandparents. total hot dog.

- after about 3 months his curls are finally back and better than ever. i love them.

- he isn't quite adjusted to sunday school yet. when we go to pick him up he is usually in the "bye-bye buggy." (see video clip below) hopefully his rather severe separation anxiety subsides very soon.

- he is the light of our lives and our constant entertainment. i don't know what we did before we had him!?

My new camera bag!

2011-02-04T12:39:00.003-06:00

Meet my new favorite bag....the Kelly Moore B-Hobo camera bag. I've had my eye on this for some time and finally just went for it. I actually want to carry it around everyday because it is such a great bag. It has the perfect Iphone pocket, zipper pockets for cords/batteries/chargers, padded dividers that fit your camera body, lenses, and a flash, a shoulder strap and a longer messenger bag strap, the perfect color gray.....I could go on. If you love your camera I would definitely put this on your wish list for Valentine's Day!

Pretend

2011-01-31T14:00:00.003-06:00

I can't really tell what is going on today in Dean's car world. From what I can gather the cars were all waiting in line for something. Then the green car got ahead of the pack & collided with a red eighteen-wheeler. Then the yellow car was stranded with no roadside assistance. Alas, the yellow car somehow found his way back to the others and the green car escaped his previous run-in with the big rig completely unharmed. Incredible.

I'm sure Dean's version is much more interesting than mine.

Baylor

2011-01-28T13:43:00.004-06:00

When the weather is perfect like it is today I tend to miss Baylor, and wish I could time travel back a few years and go walk the bear trail with my best friends. Now that we are all married, two of us have little ones and one is back in school it's difficult to sync our schedules up for some quality time. When I think about it now, we walked and talked for HOURS and hours on that trail. So instead of wishing the day away I'll head out for another walk this afternoon once Dean wakes up. And, maybe I'll be able to catch Jess or Marlo on the phone while I'm walking.

Swimming

2011-01-19T20:28:00.003-06:00

Today was Dean's first swim lesson and I wanted to post a video (mostly for our family). He did great and loved the water. I am SO grateful that Michael was able to pop over on his lunch hour to video a bit and watch him in action! He went under water without protest and was a wild man for the remainder of the thirty minute class. Needless to say, Mommy is heading straight to bed.

Old Friends

2011-01-18T13:09:00.006-06:00

We spent part of last week in Austin getting to catch up with my very best college friends/partners in crime, Jess & Marlo. At our last get-together in January 2010 Jess told us she was pregnant. So, this year she brought her sweet baby girl, Charlotte, with her. It was a really big weekend for Dean because he got to meet his future wife, Charlotte. With the exception of poking her the eye a couple of times & trying to bash her over the head with the Bumbo tray, I'd say he was successful in making an OK impression. Despite the slightly chaotic couple of days with two little ones on completely different schedules we did manage to catch up between crying fits, feedings, spit ups and naps. 3 days out of 365 is just not enough. Marlo, who hasn't yet fallen victim to parenthood, was a trooper and a big help - thank you, Marlo! I'm pretty sure that after spending a few days with two kids has rid her of any desire to procreate in the near future. Which is why next year the rule is, no kids! (for Marlo's sake, of course)

Charlotte is such a doll and a very good natured baby.

Char & Jess. Jess is also very good natured despite the lack of sleep. :)

Lounging around with Marlo.

The lone boy on the trip.

This is a pretty accurate snapshot of the trip. Now if you can also picture me gasping, throwing the camera down, grabbing his well-meaning little finger and saying, "be GENTLE."

My bouncing baby boy at 16 mos. I adore him.

Side note: Dean is beginning to talk! To say that I've been concerned about his lack of verbal communication is a severe understatement. I know, I know boys are slower to develop verbal skills. But, when it's YOUR little boy you tend to freak out a bit. So, I'm so happy to report that the verbal wheels in his head ARE turning and churning out new words like:

- banana (he actually doesn't like eating bananas but, hey I'm not going to question it - it's a word!)

- Dean (turn up the volume and watch the video of him saying his name)

- Mom

- Dad

- No (he adds a little German accent to "No!" I believe it's for extra emphasis. I'm trying to get this one of video)

- Door

- Tree

- Baba (bottle)

- He also attempts to sing the Bob the Builder theme song along with Dad. Which really just sounds like he's trying to sing the word Bob.

iphone pictures

2011-01-14T14:06:00.008-06:00

I'm finally ready to upgrade to the iPhone 4. So, I've been making sure all my precious pictures have been safely retrieved from my current iPhone. I've had this phone for a long time! Here are some of the places we've been together.

NYC with the hubby.

An amazing trip to Italy - so glad we did this together before we had a baby.

A trip to Las Ventanas with some family & friends. Still my favorite place on the earth.

A work trip to Taiwan...

...and Xiamen...

..and Hong Kong...

...I really loved Hong Kong.

Another trip to see and work with one of our factories in El Salvador.

A trip to the hospital. (the most important picture on my phone)

A trip to Michigan.

A fun trip to the Dallas Aquarium with friends.

A day trip to Lubbock for a body scan - for fit model work.

And a memorable trip to get D's hair cut...more like chopped off.

Even though we've been together for a while, I'm not sad to trade it in for the newer model. I can't wait for flash photography & video! Plus, Dean splattered ranch dressing on it today at lunch and I can't seem to get it completely clean. So, now I get a wiff of ranch when I hold it up to my ear.

better late than never

2011-01-06T07:39:00.004-06:00

Here's our Christmas update....(late, I know.)

Dean's early Christmas gift was his own little chair. He really loves it and looks so adorable sitting in it!

The only photo I got to be in this year. Please notice the sugar cookie he's shoving in his mouth. This is what happens when you go to grandma & grandpa's!

Christmas morning at our house consisted of Dean dumping out his stocking and discovering his new love....his off-road school bus. Who knew a school bus could be SO COOL!

This year Peach and Big got D his own iPod Touch loaded with Elmo apps, Elmo songs, Disney movies & pictures. It's pretty trippy to watch him "slide to open" like a pro. Needless to say, D scored big this year. (Disclaimer: Don't worry folks, we don't let his brain go to mush by playing on electronics all day. He also got puzzles, blocks, books and other things that don't require batteries and an iTunes account this year.)

Oh the Baylor game. After sprinting through torrential rain, lighting & thunder to see our beloved bears they lost. It was a gigantic disappointment. However, we got to see some good ole Baylor friends and introduce them to our little bear! D couldn't get over the size of the TV in that place!

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-21T11:18:00.004-06:00

Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; He is Christ the Lord.

- Luke 2:11

I hope you all have a very Merry Christmas and that the Lord blesses you immensely in the New Year.

Our 2010 Christmas card artwork by:

Ashley Goldberg

Christmas Cards

2010-12-13T22:26:00.002-06:00

Just tracked my package of 2010 Christmas cards. They're in Memphis and scheduled to be delivered tomorrow. I always get excited about Christmas cards. I TRY to come up with something a little different each year. And, I was really jazzed about our cards this year because I thought, dang, I really thought outside the ole' box this year. That is until I came across this ridiculously talented family. The dad dabbles in film & photography and the mom is an artist/blogger. Don't get me wrong, I truly appreciate my husband's talents and his chosen profession. He's great at it. But, after I watched this video I'm like, dang, could you take some night classes or something and learn about movie making so we can do this next year!?

I'm slightly less excited about that package arriving tomorrow.

You can check out her blog here.

WItchery Kids

2010-12-08T10:41:00.004-06:00

In an effort to keep D looking fly I often check out clothing brands from around the world. Yesterday, I discovered Witchery Kids, an Aussie brand. Although I don't love the name, these clothes are seriously cool and have become my new favorite - sorry Crewcuts. After looking at the too-cool-for-school boys stuff I browsed the girls section and found our daughter. No, for real. If we ever have a girl, this is what she will look like. (Dear Lord, please give us a girl. Amen.) She will actually walk out of me looking exactly like this. Classic trench, nautical stripes, studded belt and killer sandals. Her name will be something very euro-cool like...Allegra or Daphne. But, she will have to teach me how to do that effortless looking tie/loop trick with a belt. And, despite her father's best efforts to force her into a convent, she will end up being an artist, designer, model, volleyball player or writer. She will also do all of this while living very close to her father and I. The end.

PS- I know y'all are getting SICK of my dining room but check out Remodelaholic.com today! I'm featured. Thanks Cassity! :)

Climbing

2010-12-01T19:39:00.002-06:00

This is what happens when I leave Daddy & D in a room alone for more than 10 minutes. I return and D has all these new tricks. Like, climbing on the coffee table.

ps- he got his 3rd haircut today. we tried out a new place. and apparently they don't speak English because I said I wanted to keep his curls but just trim them up a bit. after trying to distract him with my iphone I looked up and they were all gone. good news: they will grow back. I guess I should have explained more clearly that his curls are his trademark. they're what he's known for. his signature look. his flair. a distinguishing characteristic. they go with everything, you know? maybe Santa will bring us back his curls for Christmas?

Santa

2010-11-27T11:51:00.004-06:00

Today we made an attempt to get D's photo taken with Santa. Last year it was pretty simple. No crying. No arched back. No make-my-body-go-limp-so-that-I-slide-off-your-lap move. Last year it could have been Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer holding him and he wouldn't have cared a bit. However, despite the hysterics this year, I adore these photos. (And so does my husband because we didn't have to pay for them) Maybe we'll try visiting Santa again before he comes to our house next month?

Better After Blog Feature

2010-11-25T10:39:00.003-06:00

Lindsey over at Better After has featured my dining room before and after photos. I love looking at all of the great before and after projects on Lindsey's blog - it's very inspiring. Be sure to check it out. Thanks for the Turkey Day shout out, Lindsey!

Thankful

2010-11-23T15:55:00.004-06:00

I thought I'd share what I'm thankful for this year. Pretty simple really. It's these two guys.

Everything else is just a bonus.

Happy Thanksgiving.

Catch up

2010-11-10T10:55:00.006-06:00

Hey everyone! Here are the pictures that I've been promising of our little man's second Halloween. He celebrated Halloween all. week. long. We had a bash at the club with my family, we celebrated at the neighborhood party, dropped by Daddy's office to show off my costume, got to see Uncle Travis, trick-or-treated at Dusty's house and dropped by to visit my in-laws. Whew. Lots of pictures and lots of fun!

This year D had two costumes. The first was a blue monster costume - which he unfortunately hated but kept it on long enough to get a few shots. His second costume was his skeleton PJ's. This was much more tolerable in the heat. He was cute in both but, we were partial to the blue monster. I think we laughed hysterically for about 20 minutes after we put it on him. But, the combo of the hairy and very hot polyester plus the humiliation factor was just too much for him to handle. We learned our lesson.

This year Mommy & Daddy had costumes too! I was a human kleenex. It was pretty simple. I just wore my normal clothes and every time D had a runny nose he wiped it on my shoulder and/or my legs. Daddy also had his own Halloween get-up. He was Tom Selleck - see mustache photo below. ;)

D with my parents & grandparents

Pacing & crying. He HATES the blue monster!

Plenty of sugar at the club bash!

They had a DJ, trick-or-treating, a bouncy house, dinner & prizes. He was a little overwhelmed by all the kids & music!

Spinning in Daddy's work chair. Is there anything more fun?!

Visiting Grandpa's office

Charming all the ladies.

Playing on Uncle Trav's Iphone.

He spotted the train at the neighborhood party. We then waited in line for twenty minutes for a ride.

No one wants to think about dental health at Halloween. Get lost tooth!

First cotton candy.

Visiting more grandparents

Tickling the ivories.

Jumping on the trampoline with Daddy/Tom Selleck. Love that moustache.

Trick-or-treating at Dusty the dog's house. Holly & Chris live there too!

Design Sponge....OMG!

2010-11-04T14:49:00.004-05:00

Now that I've caught my breath and stopped shaking long enough to type, I am excited to share that my little dining room re-model has been featured on Design Sponge! I visit this blog daily and love, love, love it. When they said they were accepting "before and after" submissions I thought, why the heck not?! I submitted my dining room photos and they actually thought it was cool enough to put on their big-ole'-design-blog. (insert loud squeal here) Me? Cool? NO WAY!!!! Needless to say, I'm on cloud nine. The excitement is a little lost on my son (he gave me an odd look as I was jumping in place and screaming) and my husband (who is beginning catch a little bit of my excitement after I explained that d*s is kind of a big deal in the design world). Really I think my hubby is worried this might give me another reason to spend more moolah re-doing another room. Take another gander at my baby-changing-station turned dining room on d*s!

Here is where I found everything....

Chevron Rug - West Elm

Mirror & Table - Laurie's Home Furnishings - Tomball, TX

Drapes & Drapery Hardware - Calico Corners

Upholstered Side Chairs - Restoration Hardware

Louis Ghost Chairs - AllModern.com

Light - Overstock.com

Halloween Preview

2010-10-29T11:03:00.002-05:00

All the Halloween parties have begun and we have a little blue monster and a baby skeleton running around our house - 1 costume for warm weather and the other for cold weather. Here's a little preview. I'll be posting more soon. Happy Halloween to everyone!

Haircuts & Homecomings

2010-10-25T11:05:00.004-05:00

Pardon my short blogging break. I've had double ear infections and a sinus infection for the past week. However, I seem to be on the mend. Despite being under the weather we still have had quite a few things going on. Aunt Amy, the Auburn Tiger, came home for a visit - we always love to see her! Dean got his first haircut, and we went to Baylor Homecoming! GO BEARS! Here are a few snapshots. Enjoy!

Aunt Amy & Dean (this is pre-haircut)

Yummy!

First haircut with Sonny. Sonny has done my hair since I was 12 so it's only fitting that he cut Dean's hair for the first time!

After a small meltdown Dean recovered nicely with the help of some chocolate cookies. And his new do is so precious!

We met up with the Dotson family in Waco. Here is our little crew heading to the tailgate. We rolled up with our babies and strollers to tailgate with all the students. Total buzz kill for that crowd. But, we always have fun the Stephen, Katie & Knox!

I got a chance to see my darling and very pregnant friend, Natalie! She looks fantastic and we can't wait to meet her daughter, Jules!

This man's boots are, in a word, divine. And, his wife's green track suit and big gold necklace were pretty dang cute too! I think this is what Michael and I will look like at homecoming in 30 years. Except I will be wearing the boots & a necklace and Michael will be wearing the green track suit of some kind.

A few videos

2010-10-17T11:09:00.002-05:00

Here is some recent footage. The first is Dean saying Mama after waking up from his nap. This is his new favorite word and I LOVE it!

This little clip was taken last weekend. We took a trip to Toys R'Us to spend the last of Dean's birthday money. He came home with hokey pokey Elmo and a few other things. Elmo is the clear favorite.

Uncle Carson

2010-10-15T15:33:00.004-05:00

Uncle Carson's fall break was this past week/weekend so he came to town for a little visit. Dean wore his TCU football jersey in honor of his Uncle's return home. However, Dean told me when we got in the car that he didn't like purple (it washes him out) or frogs and to please take it off of him and put a Baylor shirt on. He said that he looks a lot better in Baylor green and that bears are way cooler (and more ferocious). This is all paraphrased of course, but you get the picture. Sic'em Bears!

Pumpkins

2010-10-11T16:34:00.003-05:00

We took Dean to MDUMC's annual pumpkin patch this weekend! Last year he was itty bitty and this year he's walking around & picking up small pumpkins (and throwing them). My how time flies.

Outside!

2010-10-06T11:12:00.007-05:00

We've been out and about trying to enjoy every minute of this gorgeous weather! We took an Austin trip, we went to the Houston Zoo and we spent an afternoon at Dewberry Farm. Lots of fun and lots of pictures.

{Just another beautiful day on the lake}

{OMG moment at the zoo}

{Loving the slide at Dewberry Farm}

{He wasn't so sure about the goats at the farm}

More Birthday Details!

2010-10-04T15:42:00.003-05:00

Since I did such a BAD job at documenting my son's first birthday party here is a little peek at some of the things that Lauren at Letters by Lauren helped me out with. I was super please with all the fun things she designed! Thanks, Lauren!

CLICK HERE TO SEE...

Dining Room

2010-09-27T11:06:00.006-05:00

The dining room is done! And I must say, I'm quite proud of it. If you have ever stopped by our house before, then you know what the old dining room looked like. It was an empty, catch all, mish-mash, big table with no chairs, beige hole and after Dean was born it became the diaper changing station. Gross. I finally got myself in gear and got inspired. And, despite the minimal complaining & eye rolling Michael did throughout the process I know he is proud of the final product too - and REALLY glad it's done. You won't catch us changing any diapers in there from now on. Promise.

Here are some before & afters.

{The before picture. Made even more awful by the iPhone picture quality. Eeek!}

{Ahhhh...the after shot. Updated paint color, Ikat drapes with metallic drapery rod, new light fixture, rug, chairs, mirror & art. Voila!}

{I am pretty obsessed with the work of artist Cy Twombly. His pieces can cost about as much as a car. Soooo, I decided to commission myself to create the perfect piece of art for the dining room using his work as my inspiration. This is one of my favorite pieces.}

{Here I am. Budding artist. I had just purchased my canvas, paint & brushes. Blank, clean & full of ideas. I painted during nap time in my garage.}

{Here I am again. Completely frustrated artist. After 2 weeks of relentless painting and re-painting I have a complete MESS and the worst color blue I've ever seen. Thank goodness my sweet neighbor - who happened to have a degree in art and is a painter herself - saw me in my garage and dropped by to see what the heck I was doing. She was able to get me past my block and fill me full of new ideas. Thanks Caroline!}

{A few weeks and one new frame later...done. Exactly what I had wanted all along. Definitely not a Cy Twombly BUT good enough.}

We're still here!

2010-09-26T19:12:00.002-05:00

We're still here. We've been busy cheering on our Baylor Bears, visiting the Houston Aquarium, playing with the hose and playing outside with new toys! We've been having too much fun which has left little time for blogging. Here are a few recent pictures...

One!

2010-09-20T16:32:00.004-05:00

Welp, I've been procrastinating this post. If you know me well you know I don't like change. SO....needless to say, my first and only son turning one-year-old brought on some emotions and change I wasn't ready for. For about a week leading up to his birthday I rocked him to sleep every night and sobbed - you can confirm that with my hubby, who I'm pretty sure thought I was slowly losing my mind whenever he caught me in the glider mid-sob. I put out a few pictures for the party of Dean's first year. Michael was looking at them the night before and said something like, "wow, he sure is a big" or "he certainly doesn't look like a baby anymore." I immediately burst into tears and turned Michael's shirt into a wet, snotty mess. But, I'm certain (correct me if I'm wrong) that every mom goes through a version of this at some point in time. The bad news is change is inevitable so I've eventually got to pull myself together and put on my big girl pants, otherwise I'll be the mom clinging to my son's leg sobbing uncontrollably when he walks across the stage to get his diploma. So, the past week when folks ask me, "how old is he?" I've been working on replying, "he's one" without breaking into the ugly cry in the middle of the bread aisle.

Here are a few pictures of Dean's birthday party and his actual birthday. We had a great time at his party and Dean was surrounded with loving family and friends - which is just how we wanted it to be. Because I was a little bit busy putting things together for the shin dig, I managed to not take a single photo of the set up - which was super adorable! :( So, this will have to do.

We woke him up on 9.9.10 with birthday waffles. We sang to him and measured how tall he is on the wall in his closet.

For lunch he got a birthday fig newton. I sang to him again and helped him blow it out. Singing, holding a flaming fig newton, taking a photo and trying to keep it out of Dean's reach not the BEST idea I've ever had.

I had grand visions of Dean jumping into his cupcake cake and getting COMPLETELY messy. Not so. This is about how messy he got.

A little batting practice with Unchie Carson.

Showing Peach all my new toys

This was taken a week before Dean's birthday at my Dad's birthday dinner. He did get into the chocolate cake here. I guess it was too much pressure with everyone watching him?! I adore this picture. So full. So happy.

Adam Nyholt

2010-09-14T12:00:00.003-05:00

I'm still trying to get everything put back together after the big party this weekend. I promise I'll be doing a big birthday post soon! In the meantime...here are a few pictures from the talented Adam Nyholt! My mom surprised us with a big photo of Dean for his birthday. While she was babysitting him for us one weekend she met Adam for a little photo shoot. He looks SO adorable and I think all of these pictures show his little personality. I adore Adam's work (it's hanging all over our house) and what Mom doesn't love professional pictures of their baby?! Here's the link to his blog where he has posted some of the pictures...

-------> CLICK HERE <--------

Pre-Birthday Cookie

2010-09-08T15:26:00.003-05:00

Today I thought it was appropriate to take Dean for a pre-birthday treat. He enjoyed a mini-chocolate chip cookie. He looks a bit drunk in this iphone shot but, I'm pretty sure that's what I look like when I eat a cookie. Tomorrow is the big day! One year old! I'm so excited and will most likely have a happy tear in the corner of my eye all day. We're so proud of our big boy!!! I'm starting to cry right now...

Exposure Therapy

2010-09-02T10:52:00.004-05:00

In one of my more brilliant parenting moments (please note intended sarcasm) I decided to start "exposure therapy" with Dean to treat his deep aversion to grass. I learned about exposure therapy from a reality show - at the time I concocted this whole diagnosis & treatment in my head it sounded COMPLETELY legit and then I said it out loud to my husband. So...we went to a park yesterday that has an enormous grassy prairie-like area. After we played on the swings, tried to eat various found objects and played on the slides we began our therapy. Here's how it went...

{How the heck am I going to get out of this?}

{AH-HA...narrow cement step. Safe!}

{Walking the little cement plank. Up and back}

{Up and back. This process went on probably 8 times.}

{Hmm...Mom's camera bag. If only I could get to it without touching the grass.}

{Placed back into the middle of the grass & immediately headed back to the cement.}

{Grabbin' a drink before we head home}

{Walking along the sidewalk at home}

Oh Boy

2010-08-26T10:15:00.005-05:00

Well, it's been a wild week at our house and there is no slowing down. Last weekend I enjoyed some time away with two friends and without a husband & baby. It was a sweet couple of days. We relaxed, shopped, slept and actually ate a meal with two hands. We were all giddy with excitement the entire trip. I'm so grateful for friends! However, upon my return I came down with a nasty little bug that left me completely unable to function as a human being for about two days - this is why I have been noticeably absent from the blog lately. Thank goodness our families live close by! What would we do without them?!

So...since I've been back on duty Dean has kept me on my toes! Yesterday, was Dean's second bloody incident and I'm certain it won't be his last. His mouth had a little run in with a toy basket which left a gigantic gash on his tongue & a river of blood spewing from behind one of his new front teeth. Like the calm, cool & collected mom that I am, I immediately called Michael at work to ask/yell why wasn't he home already and when would he be home b/c his son was spitting blood all over the place. Genius. Right? So after running aimlessly around the house with a SCREAMING, bloody baby on my hip I put a Popsicle in his mouth & called my mom who talked me down a bit. After about 20 minutes, 27 Popsicles & another bath the bleeding stopped and Dean was on a hard core sugar high. Status as of this morning (after shutting his finger in the cabinet door): Dean is completely fine but, now wants a Popsicles for breakfast. He stood at the freezer this morning and whined. I think I need to man up a bit if I'm going to be a boy mom. Blood, scrapes, stitches, cuts, sweat, broken bones & dirt are going to part of my day to day. Just ONE girl....please God, just give me ONE girl that loves fashion, decorating, shoes, cleanliness, tea parties, volleyball, head bands, jewelry, fur coats & makeup. Please.

Speaking of girls, one of my BEST college friends had her darling daughter on Monday. Charlotte Joy. I am dying to meet her and squeeze her and put a head band on her. She is precious! Jess sent Dean an early birthday present right before she went into labor last week - who does that!? If it wasn't edible, it wasn't on my radar - that was my mindset days before labor! Jess is awesome and Dean stinkin' loves his new bubble mower - thank you my darling friend. Even though he HATES the grass, he still enjoys mowing the back porch. (photos below)

We are headed back out of town this weekend - together, without Dean (gasp!). Stay tuned for some great photos next week!

{A manly moment}

{When the ball goes in the grass he stares at it and refuses to go fetch it}

{Look at this physique. He is the MOST darling butterball}

{We've also recently learned how to kick a ball. Lord help me}

{Nope, I won't do it, Dad}

{Love them both. So handsome}

{This one kills me. I had just told him, no, don't touch that. He glanced at me, smiled and grabbed it. How can you not laugh?}

{Look Camille....PANTS! This might be the first time all summer! ;) }

{The moment before he picked up the keyboard and ripped off the space bar}

Popsicles & Sidewalk Chalk

2010-08-18T15:47:00.003-05:00

Cute, right?! Sidewalk chalk and popsicles on a warm afternoon. Drawing something precious for Daddy to see when he pulls in the driveway - his first piece of artwork. Great summer activity....for a 2 year old. If you mix popsicles, colorful sidewalk chalk, and an 11 month old you get a sticky 11 month old eating sidewalk chalk. I'm such a rookie.

We started with the popsicle. Adorable photos. He thought it was super delish and didn't mind that he was so sticky - I didn't either. Then we shifted to the sidewalk chalk which to Dean looks exactly like what he was just eating. Duh, Mom. The last photo is Dean with blue chalk all over his mouth. I couldn't get a great photo of his chalk face because I was to busy frantically scanning the chalk box for poison control information.

For now, the chalk will live in the garage. Maybe we'll pull it out next summer?

Basketball

2010-08-17T11:25:00.003-05:00

Michael has been playing on a church league basketball team this summer with his brother, dad and some guys from work. Last night we went to watch him play and it was a great game! Lots of fun and they came from behind for the win. After the game I insisted on getting a few pictures. I was only allowed to take 3 - and this is what I got. Maybe next time we'll bring some orange slices & Juicy Juice for half time.

Lately

2010-08-15T16:19:00.005-05:00

Here are some recent photos. Enjoy!

{I bought a new pillow for Dean's room. Subliminal message? You betcha'. This will be the first phrase I teach him to read/say.}

{The deep love affair with Daddy continues. When asked, "where is Daddy?!" Dean retreats to his front window spot to wait for his old man to come home.}

{I got to attend a lovely bridal shower for the even more lovely Courtney Comeaux. Here's the blushing bride opening one of her many gifts.}

{Courtney and her sis, Erin, who happens to be a bride as well!}

{Our buddies from Little Gym, Ethan & Scotty, stopped by this week for a little play date. This is the oh-so-adorable Ethan and his Mama, Amalie. Love his smile!!!}

{Ethan & Amalie}

{Scotty & Dean had a little Cheerio eating contest. However, Scotty was unaware that this contest was taking place. Until, Dean began violently choking on the 92 Cheerios he had hoarded and then shoved into his mouth.}

{Scotty: Dude, slow down. My Mom has plenty more of these things.}

{Dean: Did I win?}

{Mr. Z - such a doll!}

{Impromptu snack time with Daddy in the hallway. Maybe this is why he likes Daddy more - he lets him eat off of the floor?!}

{We dropped by this afternoon to see Dean's Great-Grandpa, Poppa Brown}

{Exploring}

{We loved the glass top coffee table. It's the simple things.}

{The dudes}

11 months

2010-08-10T16:05:00.006-05:00

Yesterday was Dean's 11 month birthday. With all the prep for his big first birthday party there are these precious images that keep running through my head - a replay of the past 11 months. We have so much to celebrate this year.

We have a walker!

2010-08-03T17:26:00.002-05:00

Yep, Dean is on the move. I feel bad that I haven't posted anything about this big event until now. But, that's just how it goes sometimes. Here is a short video of the little man in action. He actually started trying to walk around 9mos. He would take one step here or there and then fall. The last week of July is when he started taking lots of steps at a time. It's pretty wild to be at the sink and turn around to a little midget standing right behind you. Startles you. We are so proud of him and absolutely love watching him test out his new freedom. A joy!

"Obama Zombies" by: Jason Mattera

2010-07-29T11:17:00.002-05:00

I bought the book, "Obama Zombies" by Jason Mattera, for Michael's birthday last month. I picked it up and began reading it earlier this week and cannot put it down. Each night I crack open this book and end up completely ticked off about what Barack Hussein Obama has done to brainwash (not all) most of my generation. Yep, there I am at 2 am FUMING which has made it very difficult to get any sleep. You should be losing sleep too. The video below is a short synopsis of the book. I love Mattera's way of explaining the idea of redistributing wealth in the name of social justice - the redistribution of GPA points. It's time to wake up Zombies!

Our little Sunday afternoon

2010-07-26T19:33:00.002-05:00

This weekend was a (much needed) quiet one at our house. We ventured to the dog show Saturday morning so Dean could see all the pups. He enjoyed watching the dogs compete in the agility course and dog dancing show. Yes, dog dancing is really an event. Then we headed to the pool for a bit until the skies opened. Sunday afternoon we got in some splash mat time in the backyard before it rained AGAIN. Dean discovered how to put his face in the water and I actually caught it on tape. He hasn't learned how to hold his breath while doing this new trick but, I'm sure that will come. He had us in stitches! (please excuse my annoying voice in this video - ugh, is that how I really sound!?!?)

P.S. - The swimsuit D is wearing in this video is goofy and slightly ridiculous looking however, it does save me about 15 minutes of wrestle-mania trying to get sunscreen on him. Thanks for the suit, Peach!

Thanks Katie!

2010-07-23T09:23:00.013-05:00

We received a pleasant surprise in the mail this week! My friend, Katie Dotson, sent Dean his first monogrammed shirt. On our road trip to Dallas a few weeks back I had told her that Dean had no monogrammed clothing so she went out and took care of it for me! SO SWEET! However, now I want everything to be monogrammed because it's just so darn adorable - plus I kind of love his initials. Thanks for thinking of us, Katie!

Michigan Trip - Part 2

2010-07-22T08:46:00.003-05:00

And here is part 2 of our trip. Family & Frankenmuth.

Little Logan pushing Dean around in the stroller. This activity went on for quite some time.

Cousin Michael

Cousin Angela

Uncle Joe and the boys

Joe, Laura & Jeanette

Schmeling boys & Feigleson boys

Cousin Laura

Family photo by the barn. No, I'm not pregnant...it's just the shirt.

Bronner's in Frakenmuth - click here to see the website. AMAZING and HUGE Christmas store!

Bronner's parking lot. Yep, baby Jesus was watching over our car while we shopped inside.

Covered bridge in Frankenmuth

My Bavarian baby

Frankenmuth flowers

We had a nice time in Michigan visiting with everyone! A big thanks to all the family members who drove to the farm to visit with us. We felt very special and enjoyed seeing you all.

Michigan - Part 1

2010-07-19T20:01:00.004-05:00

I've got so many post worthy images there is no way I can fit them into just one. So, enjoy part one of our trip to Michael's Grandparent's farm in Munger, MI.

This is the big red barn sitting right next to their home and the huge field full of soy beans. Beautiful.

Quite possibly my favorite Daddy & Dean picture to date. So handsome. Sitting outside on the farm enjoying the breeze.

Great-Grandpa DuRussell and the boys.

Grandma Feigleson (aka J-Wow) & Great-Grandma DuRussell giggling at Dean.

This is the big corn field across the street from their house.

Well, maybe this is my favorite Daddy & Dean picture?!

Great-Grandma DuRussell & Dean strolling.

We're back...

2010-07-18T13:46:00.002-05:00

We've been out of town the past few days and arrived home very early this morning. I will try and post some pictures once I have slept for eight consecutive hours but until then, enjoy the view.

Chuck E. Cheese

2010-07-12T15:59:00.003-05:00

On Sunday afternoon Dad suggested we go to Chuck E. Cheese to entertain Dean and to burn some energy before his afternoon nap. I'm still not sure what he thought of the little outing. He seemed cautious but not entirely unhappy. We'll just say he was neutral. I guess I too would be a little weirded out to see a gigantic rat running around while people were eating pizza.

Mommy & Dean's Road Trip

2010-07-09T14:40:00.005-05:00

Hello again. Dean and I got home yesterday from a long road trip that took us to Austin, Dallas, Waco and back home again. We had so much fun visiting our long distance pals. Here are some highlights...

**I didn't really pick up my camera over the July 4th holiday, which explains why there are no 4th pictures below. Just imagine some of our other Austin/lake pictures, add some red, white & blue, a few fireworks and you got it. **

Our first stop was at the Zolfo's (Baylor friends) house on Tuesday. We got to catch up with Walker & his momma which is always a treat. Dean got his first taste of dog food while hanging at the Zolfo's - delish! Baxter was super sweet to share his puppy treats with Dean! When we looked up, Dean had 2 pieces of kibble rolling around in his mouth and had a perplexed look on his face. Hysterical. We also got to see the lovely Lindsey Brewer who was kind enough to drop by for a visit too! I love getting to see the Lindseys and only wish that we all lived closer.

Pretty sure Walker and Dean had no clue there was another baby in the room. Maybe next time they meet they will play TOGETHER?!

Future Baylor roommates!

Iphone image - better in B/W Linds?! ;)

On Wednesday we headed over to see Stephen & Katie Dotson (more Baylor friends) and their baby boy, Knox. He is ADORABLE. We lunched and went to the Dallas aquarium which is one of the most memorable activities I have done with Dean to date. Everything was so new & so amazing. It was a treat to watch him see a zillion different animals. And what is a trip to the aquarium without getting pooped on, right? They have a huge open jungle-like area where exotic birds fly around and I was lucky enough to get a little gift on the back of my head. Haven't I been pooped on enough this year?! Luckily Katie was there with an abundance of baby wipes to save the day. Thanks for entertaining us Dotson's!

Look at these big blue eyes. He's is watching sharks swim all around him.

He especially loved the penguins. Amazing.

Katie, Knox, Dean & Mommy - The petting portion of the aquarium.

Wednesday night we met my dearest friend in the whole world (who happens to be 8 months pregnant with a little girl) for dinner. Jess is one of my BEST Baylor friends. It was such a tease. Why can't we live closer?! I am looking forward to holding Charlotte sometime soon - and so is Dean. Jess, when are you starting your blog?! ;)

Dean told me on the way home that he was going to marry Charlotte one day. I have given my blessing.

Finally, on the way home, we stopped in Waco to see Holly, Margaret & Stella Fish. Holly and I have been schoolmates from grade school all the way to Baylor! Mrs. Fish was kind enough to whip up delicious quesadillas for the weary travelers. We enjoyed playing with the big girls. Thanks Fishes!

Margo reading to a captive audience.

photo by: H. Fish

Mrs. Fish is an excellent cook.

Margo

Stella

Last night, after a long trip, Daddy was very glad to see his little man! Dean was also very happy to see Daddy again. They were doing bath mohawks. I absolutely LOVED our little Tour of Texas and I'm so glad we got to see everyone! Thanks to you all for making time for us this week!
Whew...is anyone still there?

The Weekend

2010-07-01T10:42:00.003-05:00

I'm just now getting around to posting a few photos from our Austin weekend and we're about to head that direction AGAIN for the 4th. Dean and I invited our good friend Holly Carr up for the weekend while the big boys had their own "guys weekend" on the other end of the lake. Unfortunately, I never got a photo with my camera of Holly but she got some great shots you can check out on her blog here.

Chillin' on the boat dock. Look at that grill - he's got 6 teeth now and LOVES to grind them all. day. long. Which is absolute TORTURE for his mommy to listen to. I would rather listen to 4 million babies cry all day long than his teeth grinding. Yucky.

Headed up on the tram.

Dean loves splashing and being naked in the pool! He also loves to pee in the pool - unfortunately that picture is not "blog appropriate." :(

Sidenote: I had a small mole - no actually I'm going to call it a beauty mark because mole sounds huge and hairy and gross - I had a beauty mark removed from between my toes a few weeks ago. I COMPLETELY underestimated how painful and annoying this little process would be. After nearly two weeks of limping around I just had the 3 stitches removed yesterday and I'm still not 100%. But, a warning to you all - CHECK YOUR FEET! Beauty marks on your feet should be removed ASAP. Don't mess around!

Wild Man

2010-06-19T15:18:00.002-05:00

I haven't been so great at getting the camera out. However, I did take some recent flip video. I don't know what's going on but lately Dean has been an absolute WILD MAN. In Little Gym this week we were borderline disruptive - screaming, clapping, talking, smiling, laughing, crawling toward the teacher while she was talking. He also has a new "move." I think it's an attempt at dancing - he rocks back & forth on his bottom while scrunching up his face and nose, all while smiling and breathing/panting. He is cracking us up. This video doesn't begin to capture the extent of his new wild attitude - he's a little lamb in this video compared to some of his recent moments.

Bad Blogger

2010-06-15T18:21:00.002-05:00

I have been a bad blogger. I blame my lack of posts on the fact that I am currently in the decorating/party planning/trying to keep D from splitting his head open on every solid object in sight mode. Decorating is coming along very slowly because it must be done on my "free" time which I don't have a lot of. Same with party planning. And, I spend much of my days racing, darting, sprinting and running to catch our little guy before his head comes into contact with yet another inanimate object.

Unfortunately, we have had two pretty nasty spills as of late. In his first daredevil stunt he pulled up on a bar stool which promptly came crashing down on top of him. Tears. Blunt force trauma to the head and face. Crying. It was nasty. Number two happened on Monday morning during an impromptu bath. He tried to stand up in the bath, and just as I was trying to grab him his precious little face hit the side of the tub. Blood. Fat lip. Tears. Screaming. Mother of the year, I know.

So, since Dean looks like he has been in a bar fight and I have developed twitch today is the first day we have ventured out in public. I will try and get my camera out again soon so I have something to share with everyone!

xoxo

9 month check up

2010-06-09T13:20:00.004-05:00

Welp, today was our little man's 9 month check up. A rare doctor's visit because everyone left with a smile. No shots - YEA! Dean seems to be right on track with developmental milestones and is tipping the scales once again. The doctor said to me after reviewing his stats, "He will be a formidable competitor." We're are just pleased that he is a healthy, happy boy. However, this does explain why my arms look like I have been juicing...and I don't mean squeezing my own orange juice.

Height = 31 1/4" (100%)

Weight= 25 lbs 120z (100%)

Head Circ = 18 1/2" (90%)

I am now beginning to look toward Dean's BIG FIRST BIRTHDAY PARTY! Yea! We've got our theme, date & place all picked out. I have also begun to work with Lauren at Letters by Laurenon our invitations - she's awesome. Here's a little sneak peak...

Happy Birthday Daddy!

2010-06-07T14:30:00.002-05:00

Today is Michael's 27th birthday! Thanks for being a fantastic daddy and amazing husband. We love you so much and couldn't live without you!

Summer!

2010-06-01T12:14:00.007-05:00

It has been non-stop action around here lately. This past week we have been to the Children's Museum, The Little Gym, the big gym (that's mommy's gym), a little league baseball game, riding on the boat in Austin, dinners with friends & family, swimming, swimming and more swimming. AND to top it all off Dean's got a top tooth coming in and he's is now standing up unassisted. Here are a few pictures and a little video for you. We hope everyone had a wonderful Memorial Day weekend!

Dean & Hunter at The Children's Museum

Precious Hunter!

Little Drummer Boys

The Little Gym

Peach came for The Little Gym experience and got to see D shamelessly flirt.

Singing and clapping

A little QT with Uncle Carson

Remotes are delicious everywhere we go!

Reading with Aunt Amy at the condo in Austin

Not sure what the caption should be for this one, Uncle Jack.

Daddy & D swimming at the lake!

Pray for Stevie

2010-05-24T12:26:00.002-05:00

Please take a moment right now to PRAY FOR STEVIE! Stevie is undergoing surgery TODAY for a brain tumor. She needs your prayers. Read her story....

http://prayforstevie.blog.com/

Just another weekend in the burbs

2010-05-23T22:11:00.004-05:00

Here are some highlights from our weekend!

Dean is now standing unassisted for short periods of time. Geez, wasn't he born yesterday!? Where has the time gone?

Opening & closing doors is a new hobby. Stay tuned for a pinched finger photo - that is the next logical event in my mind.

Oh these eyes.

It's all about the food. Clearly, I was not moving quickly enough!

Long but still adorably chubby legs.

We broke out the new water mat in the backyard. Thanks Peach!

The water mat deserves a clap.

The golfers got a little clap too.

And finally, the crab pool gets a clap.

Friday!

2010-05-21T12:12:00.004-05:00

D & I have not been feeling 100% this week. Which is why I haven't been posting much recently. Now that we are both on the mend here is a photo from my first Mother's Day. I haven't posted this one yet because it took me so long to airbrush myself. No makeup = lots of work in photoshop. I'll be posting some more later! Hope everyone is having a great Friday!

Diaper Changing

2010-05-19T12:00:00.003-05:00

This is what I look like while trying to change D's diaper lately. click here

Standing Up

2010-05-14T21:21:00.003-05:00

Well, things have gone from zero to sixty in about 5 days. We've gone from trying to crawl to crawling and straight into pulling up and standing up. Freaky. I tried to start baby proofing the house today but I still cannot find anything to cover the edges and corners of our enormous - but oh-soooo-beautiful - coffee table. All of my art, fashion and photography books are slowly being relocated. I'm trying to think of it as a design challenge. Certainly someone out there has written a book about chic baby proof decor!? ugh. Well, my back is killing me and my eye is twitching from constantly flinching and sprinting to catch Dean before he busts his little noggin' on something. The twitch is probably going to last until he is 35...maybe longer. Goodnight.

My First Mother's Day

2010-05-12T10:15:00.007-05:00

I had a wonderful Mother's Day with my boys. The most amazing gift I received was watching my little man crawl, clap and pull up all weekend long. He has turned into a little mover almost overnight. Which has called attention to the importance of baby proofing the house. However, I think it might be cheaper and less time consuming to just wrap him in bubble wrap and let him go. Enjoy the photos...

{ Pulling up! }

{ When Dean gets excited he bangs on any surface available and says, "oooohh!" It reminds me of a monkey. I'll try and get it on video. }

{ Mama's precious baby. }

{ When he crawls, he's all business. Furrowed brow, squinty eyes and full of determination. Not to be confused with the face he makes while pooping. }

{ Spontaneous clapping. Not sure yet what makes something/someone deserving of a clap? }

{ Hi Daddy! }

{ Mama's shoes look delicious. }

{ Everyone should get a taste of chocolate on Mother's Day. }

{ Grandpa Dave heard that Dean liked chocolate so he wanted to know if he liked pink icing too. Surprise, surprise. He loved it! }

{ I have introduced Dean to chicken recently and this is what happens when it hits his tongue. Full-on gag. He repeats this with every single bite. I have tried tons of different chicken mixtures and I get the same reaction each time. It's funny for about the first 3 bites. }

Mother's Day Preview

2010-05-10T20:47:00.000-05:00

Here's a little preview of our Mother's Day weekend. There was a lot of this going on...

More to come.

Facade

2010-05-06T14:00:00.000-05:00

Today I took 1 and 1/2 hours for myself and went to see Corinne at Facade. Corinne did my makeup for my wedding and every other important event since then. She is so fun. She is the fabulous kind of southern girl who uses phrases like, "this color will totally bitch-out your eye." Corinne works in a cloud of powders and potions and has her own makeup language. She also has her own makeup line. She's named glosses, lipsticks, blushes and eyeshadows names like: toots! and pussytoes. She is a girly-girl to put it mildly and I love her. I got a "summer update" and I walked away with so many fun new colors and techniques (thanks to the generous Christmas gift card from mom & dad). It made me feel like a new woman. Now, I wish I had somewhere to go....

Baby Pool

2010-05-04T20:24:00.001-05:00

To all my neighbors:

Yes, it is a baby pool. Yes, it is shaped like a crab. And yes, it is in our front yard. (we wait for daddy to come home in the front yard) Look, mama needs a tan and the baby needs a change of scenery. Stop with all the dirty looks. I put it away at night. But, if I get one more sideways glance from y'all it will become permanent yard art. Seriously. Try me.

Me & D

2010-05-02T21:02:00.000-05:00

We had another fun weekend in Austin (yes, again) with family and friends. Michael managed to pry my camera away from me to take a couple of shots of (gasp) ME and my son. My mom also snapped a few with her iPhone. I am so grateful they both caught some of these mom/son moments. I will treasure these photos one day when Dean has to change MY diaper. Sick. Just kidding. Try to enjoy the photos...

Blue water and blue eyes.

This could be one of the only pictures EVER TAKEN of my child not smiling and he just had to save that frown for a picture with his mom?! Throw me a bone man...it's almost Mother's Day

My oldest and dearest childhood friend, Caroline Babb. SO nice to see her & her parents!

Mommy Calling Cards

2010-04-27T15:25:00.000-05:00

The "pre-Dean me," who was thinner and never concerned with the bowel movements of another human being would have thought mommy calling cards were utterly ridiculous. Oh how motherhood changes you. I recently found myself fumbling around for a piece of paper and pen in my purse/diaper bag so I could give my phone number and email to another mom that I met. Ha. I am lucky to get out of the house with my wallet, a couple diapers and a pacifier why on earth did I think I would actually have a pen and paper!? This incident got me searching for some calling cards. Luckily, I jumped on Esty.com and found the talented Laura Beth at Happy Girl Greetings . (side note: I've always wanted to have two names like Sarah Elizabeth or Mary Liz - those are the girls that ALWAYS won the Silver M's at Camp Mystic) Laura Beth helped me design my calling cards and I think they turned out fantastic. I can't wait to start handing them out! Laura Beth also does invitations, moving announcements, business cards, birth announcements, stationary and recipe cards. Check her out!

I went a bit overboard and decided that Dean needed his own "play date cards." I ordered these on Felix Doolittle. Very cute and you can customize what drawing you want on the card. A fun gift idea.

Boating at Windy Point

2010-04-26T11:21:00.001-05:00

This weekend we spent Friday night and Saturday in Austin. We boated, I wake boarded (somewhat successfully), Dean skinny dipped in the pool and I did not. We then traveled to Hamilton Texas for the Weber/Rankin wedding at the beautiful Argenta Ridge Ranch. I am so mad I don't have photos of us all at the wedding! I had too much to carry and the camera just had to stay at the hotel. But, it was such a wonderful wedding with good friends, family, food, fireworks, music and stunning scenery. Needless to say we are still recovering.

Having fun on the boat for the FIRST TIME! He wore his shark swimsuit with matching rash guard and hat. It'll be the last time he is able to wear that ensemble because when we finally got his noggin' through the neck hole he looked like he was wearing sausage casing. Far too tight. Then we had to put his life jacket on which didn't zip over his belly. Poor kid. He didn't seem to mind though.

The spread. Now we just need a boat!

My Dad dropped Michael's sunglasses in the water so he had to improvise.

Daddy & D driving the boat.

The Oasis.

Again with the spitting.

Laughing with Peach.

This was one of many attempts to get the boat into the boat slip. To the right of the boat dock there is a no wake area where people scuba dive and the wind was throwing the boat all over the place! Michael has serious boat maneuvering skills!

Fieldtrips & Visitors

2010-04-21T15:13:00.000-05:00

This week we took a field trip to see Poppa Brown. Poppa is my dad's dad. We had so much fun visiting with him!

Poppa, Dean & Big.

Spitting. See I told you, he spits all the time!

Sweet. This one make me miss my Grandma Brown. Wish she was still here to see her first Great-Grand baby.

We love Poppa!

We also had a recent visitor at our house...Uncle Jack. I would like to take this time to let all the single ladies know that yes, Jack is single. I'm just not sure if he's ready to mingle. In any case, if you're interested just email me and I can give you his cell number, direct work number, personal email and home address. Joking. We had fun when Uncle Jack took a stab at feeding Dean. He's a natural, ladies...well kinda. ;)

Story Time

2010-04-20T10:13:00.001-05:00

Here is another short home video of Daddy & D reading a bedtime story. Dean's book du jour is Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See. Other current favorites include Where is Baby's Belly Button? and Goodnight Moon. And when I say favorites, I mean that they are short enough for us to get through before he squirms off our laps. Enjoy!

7 months

2010-04-15T08:04:00.000-05:00

Here's a quick video of where we are on our quest to crawl. Dean just turned 7 months and is trying his hardest to get the hang of it. Just LOOK at those chiseled arms and legs. He's ready for bathing suit season!

A few other new 7 month activities...

- face first diving expeditions in the bathtub. this scares the pants off of mom & dad.

- spitting. all. the. time.

- trying to pull out his own hair. this one bothers me more than a little bit.

- pulling out the remaining portion of my hair.

- squirming, jiving, wiggling, squiggling and fidgeting all the time.

- grabbing, reaching for and picking up any object that isn't nailed down. and subsequently placing said object into his precious little pie hole.

- chewing on his toes.

- crying every time Clement, the nice greeter at HEB, gives us a balloon. can't figure this one out. but by the time we're at the apples he's chill.

- fake coughing. demonstrated in the video above.

- laughing and smiling at everyone he meets - except for Clement. poor Clement.

- letting mom & dad brush my two new teeth.

- bringing immeasurable amounts of joy, happiness, smiles, laughs, hugs, kisses and fun to our family. this is not new but definitely worth mentioning again.