As we get older, the years just seem to by faster. I thought I would reflect back month by month on some highlights of 2012!
January:
In January I started the Biggest Loser at my gym again, ready to up my fitness some more. I love this program, and was on Team DJ, the black team, once again. I had the chance to go to a training in Yakima, on Wraparound Coaching, with the infamous Laura Burger-Lucas, one of my heros in this world. This month, Ryan and I decided to go forward with our dream of adopting a child through foster to adopt. I scheduled our orientation class, and unbeknowst to us...our baby girl made her way into this world!!
February:
We attended our foster parent orientation and started the application process, one that wouildn't be complete until July. Ryan and I began a new side job adventure through our friend, Matt. We started as DaVinco vendors, ordering and stocking shelves at Cash and Carry. I continued with my Biggest Loser challenge, competing in Team Challenges. I hosted a Pull-Ups potty training House Party.
March:
I finished the Biggest Loser Challenge this month, having lost weight and inches. I had struggled a bit, due to low blood pressure and orthostatic hypotension. I did a Tilt Table Test at the hospital, which was a very crazy experience!! Not one I would like to repeat. On Saint Patricks Day, our family made the trek to Grand Coulee for a Memorial Service for Ryan's Dad and Grandma. We were able to celebrate their lives and see all of Ryan's family. A highlight for me was a Jury Duty Summons! I have always wanted Jury Duty, and finally got summoned;) Ryan and I competed in a 15K Badger Mountain Challenge together. It was freezing cold, but be completed it, and hope to do it again next year!
April:
I got to go in for Jury Duty! I was excused by 11, but I thought it was amazing! For Easter, we headed to my Mom's, where the 4 cousins hunted egss together and we ate too much. It's always fun to see the little boys together! Casey went to a date to the park with his girlfriend, Mya. They rode in the wagon together, and shared lunch in the picnic basket. I completed the PRIDE training required of foster parents, inching us closer to our foster license. I got a new bike!!
May:
We headed to Bend, where I hosted Jolene's bridal shower! Ryan started his softball season. I competed in the Sage Rat Run, a 12K! That was 7.4 miles, and I ran every step! My Mom, Dad, Jenna, Matt, Kelly and Caleb brought the RV's over and visited in the Tri-Cities. A good time was had!
June:
I had the chance to fly to San Francisco and attend an amazing training by Dr. Ross Greene, on Collaborative Problem Solving. I got to walk across the Golden Gate Bridge! I had been training for a sprint triathlon, and went for a team open water swim. Due to Immersion Pulmonary Edema, I had to be pulled out of the water, by 2 heros. I spent a few days in the ICU, and the next week recovering at home. A VERY scary incident, and I didn't get to complete the tri.
July:
In the beginning of the month, our foster license was finally approved, 8 weeks late!! And on July 9th, one phone call changed our lives forever! We met Emily that day. It had been a rough day for her, but she still was all smiles for Ryan and I. We fell in love and brought her home! My Mom and Jenna came that weekend, loaded with bags of pick presents. Our little girl who came home with a onesie and nothing else, suddenly had a closet full of clothes and toys! We had photos taken, of her and as a family this month. A friend of mine hosted a welcome party for her, which was lots of fun. I started FMLA leave, 6 weeks worth, to bond with my baby girl.
August:
Ryan had 2 weeks of vacation, which was also the last 2 weeks of my FMLA leave. We went to Seaside with my family, and camped at a KOA. We slept in a tent 5 nights, with 2 kids! That was quite an accomplishment. We had a blast, Casey loved the ocean! We also went to my Grandpa Al's 85th birthday party at my Mom's house, where I got to see my Aunt Barbara from Tennessee, and meet her daughter, Marty, who is my Mom's cousin. We also got in some boating and sunshine in Tri-cities.
September:
As I got ready to go back to work full-time, M's daycare situation wasn't working. I made arrangements at work to return part time the rest of the year, until M could attend daycare with Casey. I started another Biggest Loser challenge! I had the unique opportunity to fly out to Duke University in North Carolina and be part of a study on Immersion Pulmonary Edema. I was the 10th athlete they flew out. I have some neat pictures of my experience, which was just crazy! It was very mentally and physically challenging. And probably deserves a blog of its own:)
October:
October started with a trip to Seattle to say good bye to my little brother, as he leaves for Marine boot camp!! I am so proud of him! It was Ryan and I's birthdays, although, as we turned 32, it's not nearly as exciting as when we were younger! Jolene, Nick and Kayla came out for a weekend, and we went to the Pumpkin Patch. It was a great weekend that went by way too fast. Halloween was a blast, our kids were dinosaurs. They enjoyed trick or treating, especially Casey!
November:
This month, we were lucky enough to have my little sister fly over and spend 2 weeks with us! She also got to be here for Casey's 3rd birthday and his Construction themed birthday party. I finished my Biggest Loser challenge at my lowest weight ever. I was 3rd place! For Thanksgiving, we headed to my parents house, and had a fun filled weekend. We did some black Friday shopping, and again, ate too much.
December:
We had family Christmas photos done, and the kids met Santa....we got THE best Santa photo, and both kids are smiling! Ryan and I got to go on a date, dinner and shopping! It was our first solo date since M arrived! I officially went back to work full time mid December, but have the last week of December and first week of January off! We celebrated Christmas with my family mid December, and went to Zoo Lights, made gingerbread houses, wore Ugly Sweaters, ate, drank and we were Merry! We celebrated Christmas at home, Ryan was off Christmas Eve and Day, for the first time in years! Christmas Eve we went swimming at the gym, and did a special 12 days of Christmas work out. We had dinner with Nicole's family, and finally saw a baby belly on Nicole! Christmas Day it snowed! All day long! We stayed in our jammies all day, opened presents and played with our new toys.
We had a wonderful year! We certainly had our share of ups and downs. This year we had to say good bye to Matt and Kelly's lab, Otis. My first nephew. A true "Marley and Me" story. Otis was Caleb's best friend, and I was always amazed at the capacity at which Otis loved Caleb. Otis joins some other boys at the Rainbow Bridge, they are probably having a ball together.
Shauna's best friend was taken from us this year as well. Stacy was hit by a driver under the influence of drugs, as she walked to her car outside her home. She was a fighter, and hung in there for a month. Her friends and family and co-workers rallied to raise money for her, held benefits and shared stories. She brought a whole community together. Stacy was a rare gem on this earth. She had a beautiful smile, a positive attitude, and was an elementary school teacher, who loved her students and job. Stacy left behind her high school sweet heart, Jason, they celebrated their 6 year anniversary while Stacy was in the ICU at Harbor View. I can't think about Stacy without tears. Stacy was Shauna's best friend, but was at my house so often, my parents referred to her as their other daughter. She worked at the theatre with me, as did Jason, and pretty much all of my friends and Shauna's! Stacy was just one of those people who never had a bad thing to say. She had a nervous laugh that she did, when something was awkward. She was so cheerful, and called her friends "sweetpea". I think of her everytime I call my daughter that. Stacy was taken too young, she did so much good in this world, and had so much more to give. I just can't comprehend that she isn't here. My heart goes out to her family, especially Jason, and her sister Ashley.
Now that I have dampened the mood, here is to 2012! You were wonderful and heart breaking!
Bring on 2013!
Monday, December 31, 2012
Saturday, December 22, 2012
I have a 3 year old.
Casey is the funniest kid. He cracks me up! He is all boy, loves to rough house with his Dad, well, really everyone, but his Dad plays the hardest back with him! He has embraced being a big brother with 100% of his being. He loves to help...especially vaccuuming and doing the dishes. He loves to feed his dogs. He is very big into dancing right now, and he has some serious moves.
I love that Casey climbs into our bed every morning. The time varies, this morning it was 4am, he brought his Cars blanket in, snuggled between Ryan and I, and slept till 7:20. Yesterday, I heard him wake up and get up, and when I went to check on him, he was in my spot in bed, with his arms crossed behind his head and feet crossed at his ankles. Just chilling:) I cherish snuggling i bed with him, because he is a busy boy, who doesn't have a lot of time for snuggling. I take it where I can get it.
I love the way Casey talks. It's that cute 3 year old conversation. A big topic is around the bathroom, because of potty training. We talk a LOT about poop and potty. But Casey hasn't mastered the first "p" sound, so it's "hooping", and "I have to go Hotty". "You hooping Mommy? Bee one? Wiwow one?" I always hope he doesn't go to school and share if my poop was big or little. The other day he said "Ew Daddy, that's nasty!". We laughed til we cried. I don't know how kids can have such funny imaginations, or how their little minds work. When Ryan put up the Christmas lights, we were outside and Casey went indoors. We both went to go inside, Ryan through the front door and me through the garage. We ended up back in the front yard, and said at the same time "Casey locked me out". Uh oh! We went to the front door, where he was peeking through the window. "Casey, unlock the door." was met with "No! HAHAHA!!" Crazy evil laughter and a scrunched up nose. He threw his head back and laughed more. We had to hide and laugh and laugh and compose ourselves, because really? How did he decide to do that?! Ryan had his keys, so we got in, and Casey got a time out. I couldn't look at him...I was still laughing!
Casey went on a lot of adventures this year. His favorite was probably the ocean, with his Aunt Kelly, Uncle Matt and cousin Caleb; and Grandpa Fish, Grandma Bock-Bock, Uncle Dustin and Aunt Jenna. He hasn't stopped talking about the ocean! A lady asked Casey how old he was, he answered "5". (Yea, we are working on that...people believe him! He is the same size as his 5 year old cousin!). She asked if he was going to Kindergarten next year. "No", he replied, "I going to the ocean". He tells me all the time we are going to the oceran. "Later. When Daddy done working". For awhile he was convinced his Aunt Kelly was still at the ocean. Couldn't convince him otherwise! Casey loves to bike, and to ride in the trailer behind our bikes when he gets tired. He loves the park. Loves to go boating. Swimming. Loved horse back riding. Picking cherries. The splash park. Really likes getting his own frozen yogurt or ice cream cone. He loves to read. To count. (Counting is a mix of english and spanish. Not usually in the right order either. One, two, uno, dos, eight, nine, ten!!). He will steal your nose and eat it. He loves to tickle, and to get you with spiders. He teases and makes up games.
Casey loves M. While he can be wild and crazy and knock her down, pick her up and drop her...he really loves her. He likes being a "brudder". He wears his brother t-shirts with great pride. And he tells his friends she is HIS sister. NOT theirs. "Pabas has his own sister. M MY sister". When she cries, he will pat her head. "It o-hay baby". He will hold her hand. Rock her car seat. He even climbed in her crib, covered her with a blanket, layed next to her and patted her back. He likes to help feed her, although her cheerios seem to disappear rather quickly with his help. He has been shushing us, and whispering "Be super quiet, baby sleeping". Sometimes, he gets so impatient to play with her, he will wake her up from a nap or in the morning. Not cool. But really cute.
I love to tuck Casey in at night. We brush the uckies out of his teeth, and then a great search commences for what will be in his bed that night. 20 trains? A huge book? A stuffed animal bigger than he? Blocks? Who knows. Then we have to decide on which blanket. Cars? Moon? Bubbles? They have names. Then we need to read one book. Then we need to sing a song. Then we need to give hugs and kisses. He now needs the door open. Several minutes after this finishes, and I am downstairs....we will hear him run down the hall, into our bathroom, go potty and race back to his room. It doesnt matter if he went right before bed. We hear it every night. We laugh every time.
Casey is a little firecracker. He is busy, and funny and loves to play with his cousins and friends. Not much scares him, although he is giving me early grey hair. Nothing is sweeter to hear than "I yuv you Mommy". Or his sweet kisses. I am so excited for his future, but I am really enjoying this crazy ride as Casey's Mom.
Wednesday, December 19, 2012
A family built through adoption.
I experienced foster to adopt as a sister, but it's so much different as a parent. Ryan and I talked a lot about this decision to build our family this way, it meant a lot to both of us. I am lucky to have married someone like Ryan...we were definitely meant for each other. It's a long process to get licensed through the state, and one we kept private. We wanted the emphasis to be on our child, and not being foster parents. As my Dad told me this last weekend "Just wait til everyone says what a good person you are, and thanking you for adopting. But we are the lucky ones, blessed with these children, not the other way around". We've heard it, and it's what we hoped to avoid by not sharing until we got Baby "M". She is our focus!
The love part is easy. Being a family is easy. It's normal and perfect to us. The hard part is the conversations with others. I think everyone is well-meaning, has positive intentions and is interested in our story. But I have to share what makes this journey hard for me as a Mom.
"What happened to her REAL Mom and Dad?"
Ryan and I are M's REAL Mom and Dad. We are not her BIOLOGICAL Mom and Dad. We kiss her boo-boos. We rock her to sleep. We teach her to crawl, and to play, and we love her. We are Mommy and Daddy. Casey is her big brother. From the moment she was placed in my arms, she was mine. Just as Casey, when placed in my arms in the hospital was my son...she is my daughter. I am her Mom. Kids accept this so much more willingly than adults. My good friends daughter asked "Mommy? Did Baby M grow in Megan's tummy?" Her Mom just gave birth to her little brother, so she was an expert on tummy's and babies. I looked at my friend and she answered so eloquently, "No, honey, another Mom grew M in her tummy, but Megan is her Mommy now". And her little girl said "Okay!" and ran off to play with Casey. It hurts my heart when others ask about her real Mom. Because I'm it. We get asked a lot about the details of her Biological parents. But that is private. That is for Ryan and I to know, and someday, when M is old enough to understand, that will be for her to know. The rest of the world gets to know that we are a family, that M is our daughter, Casey is our son, and we love each other.
"Did her Mom use drugs and alcohol while she was pregnant?"
Would you ever ask a friend if they used while pregnant? I would hope not. So, why is it okay to ask me that, about my child? Why would you need to know that? And how is the answer going to matter to you? Would you think of her differently if the answer is yes? Would you think of her differently if the answer is no? What if we don't have that answer? I have been asked this so many times. It hurts a lot to hear this question. What are you implying when you ask me that? The answer to that question, whether it be YES, NO or I DON'T KNOW, has nothing to do with you. If the answer makes a difference to you, you probably don't belong in my life, or the life of my children. But it hurts my heart and my feelings every time I am asked.
"Is the adoption finalized? Is she yours yet?"
Adopting through the state takes a long time. A really long time. Private adoption is finalized nearly immediately after placement, but that is not the case in foster to adopt. A finalized adoption won't change anything but the legal paperwork. It won't make me any more of a parent, I am already her Mom. It won't make me love her more, I already love her to the moon and back. She loves me, she loves her Daddy and her big brother. A stamp of approval by a Judge is just that. And trust me, we will share that day when it comes! We will celebrate that day, it will be a BIG deal...but it may not happen for awhile. We are patient. We live our lives as a family, like any other family. We are excited to celebrate Christmas with our kids, and to celebrate her first birthday...she is ours. She is our daughter. She is a little sister. A Granddaughter. A Great-Granddaughter. A niece. A sweet, smiling, giggling 11 month old. She is OUR daughter. I know people mean well when they ask. I don't doubt that at all. But, in our eyes, the status of the legal mumbo-jumbo doesn't determine the status of our family.
"But she doesn't look like you...."
Nope. She doesn't. And that is the extent of the answer that I give strangers. I have a fair skinned, tow head blonde, blue eyed boy. And I have a dark/olive skinned, jet black hair and beautiful brown eyed girl. They are strikingly different. They accept that, they love each other, play with each other, kiss each other and fight with each other. They are brother and sister. Casey protects his little sister (when he isn't knocking her over); he lets his friends know at school "That's MY sister, NOT YOURS!" Again, I love the innocence and acceptingness of kids. It's just pure love. And we will foster that while they are young, and hope they are the best of friends when bigger. For some reason, others seem to need a reason as to why our kids look so different, but again, our looks are not what makes us a family. Love makes a family!
So please, love M with us. Know that we are her parents. Don't ask us about her past. Don't ask us about the legal stuff. Ask us what she's up to. Ask us what her latest trick is. Ask us if we are getting any sleep. And please, don't ever refer to us as anything but her Mom and Dad.
The love part is easy. Being a family is easy. It's normal and perfect to us. The hard part is the conversations with others. I think everyone is well-meaning, has positive intentions and is interested in our story. But I have to share what makes this journey hard for me as a Mom.
"What happened to her REAL Mom and Dad?"
Ryan and I are M's REAL Mom and Dad. We are not her BIOLOGICAL Mom and Dad. We kiss her boo-boos. We rock her to sleep. We teach her to crawl, and to play, and we love her. We are Mommy and Daddy. Casey is her big brother. From the moment she was placed in my arms, she was mine. Just as Casey, when placed in my arms in the hospital was my son...she is my daughter. I am her Mom. Kids accept this so much more willingly than adults. My good friends daughter asked "Mommy? Did Baby M grow in Megan's tummy?" Her Mom just gave birth to her little brother, so she was an expert on tummy's and babies. I looked at my friend and she answered so eloquently, "No, honey, another Mom grew M in her tummy, but Megan is her Mommy now". And her little girl said "Okay!" and ran off to play with Casey. It hurts my heart when others ask about her real Mom. Because I'm it. We get asked a lot about the details of her Biological parents. But that is private. That is for Ryan and I to know, and someday, when M is old enough to understand, that will be for her to know. The rest of the world gets to know that we are a family, that M is our daughter, Casey is our son, and we love each other.
"Did her Mom use drugs and alcohol while she was pregnant?"
Would you ever ask a friend if they used while pregnant? I would hope not. So, why is it okay to ask me that, about my child? Why would you need to know that? And how is the answer going to matter to you? Would you think of her differently if the answer is yes? Would you think of her differently if the answer is no? What if we don't have that answer? I have been asked this so many times. It hurts a lot to hear this question. What are you implying when you ask me that? The answer to that question, whether it be YES, NO or I DON'T KNOW, has nothing to do with you. If the answer makes a difference to you, you probably don't belong in my life, or the life of my children. But it hurts my heart and my feelings every time I am asked.
"Is the adoption finalized? Is she yours yet?"
Adopting through the state takes a long time. A really long time. Private adoption is finalized nearly immediately after placement, but that is not the case in foster to adopt. A finalized adoption won't change anything but the legal paperwork. It won't make me any more of a parent, I am already her Mom. It won't make me love her more, I already love her to the moon and back. She loves me, she loves her Daddy and her big brother. A stamp of approval by a Judge is just that. And trust me, we will share that day when it comes! We will celebrate that day, it will be a BIG deal...but it may not happen for awhile. We are patient. We live our lives as a family, like any other family. We are excited to celebrate Christmas with our kids, and to celebrate her first birthday...she is ours. She is our daughter. She is a little sister. A Granddaughter. A Great-Granddaughter. A niece. A sweet, smiling, giggling 11 month old. She is OUR daughter. I know people mean well when they ask. I don't doubt that at all. But, in our eyes, the status of the legal mumbo-jumbo doesn't determine the status of our family.
"But she doesn't look like you...."
Nope. She doesn't. And that is the extent of the answer that I give strangers. I have a fair skinned, tow head blonde, blue eyed boy. And I have a dark/olive skinned, jet black hair and beautiful brown eyed girl. They are strikingly different. They accept that, they love each other, play with each other, kiss each other and fight with each other. They are brother and sister. Casey protects his little sister (when he isn't knocking her over); he lets his friends know at school "That's MY sister, NOT YOURS!" Again, I love the innocence and acceptingness of kids. It's just pure love. And we will foster that while they are young, and hope they are the best of friends when bigger. For some reason, others seem to need a reason as to why our kids look so different, but again, our looks are not what makes us a family. Love makes a family!
So please, love M with us. Know that we are her parents. Don't ask us about her past. Don't ask us about the legal stuff. Ask us what she's up to. Ask us what her latest trick is. Ask us if we are getting any sleep. And please, don't ever refer to us as anything but her Mom and Dad.
Sunday, October 28, 2012
The difference a year makes.
I realized I haven't posted in over a year. Time to make up for lost time! As I read back, I love the memories, which is inspiring me to restart a blog. With some new security, and a new child! Chances are, is you are reading this, you know my kids and I...but from now on...they will be referred to as brother and sister, rather than posting their names. Maybe if I totally figure out all the security settings that will change. This is a test....gotta see if this works beofre I go posting exciting stuff:)
Monday, August 29, 2011
Summertime and the livin is not so easy....
Well I can't believe summer is almost over. Our weather is supposed to start cooling down, and not heating back up again. Normally this would devestate me, but I think I am ready to say goodbye to this summer. It's been too busy, too stressful and too sad. A Mama can only take so much, and I am done!!!
Casey of course is still growing like a crazy weed. He was 3 feet tall today, and outgrew the Doctor's table to get measured. He is 31-32 pounds, which is down a little, as he has been sick. He is working really hard on communicating, and picks up new words and phrases all the time. This makes him really happy and excited, he loves when we understand each other.
I made my first batch of laundry soap the other day, and homemade Draino, and next on the list is dishwasher soap. We seem to run the dishwasher every single day, since we eat all our meals at home, and actually cook!! Together, we have lost 75 pounds! And more importantly, the healthy way. As the weather changes and everyone else goes back to school, I feel this nesting craze, and since I have no one to get ready for school, I am getting us ready for fall:) Lots of organizing and getting rid of stuff, cleaning, cooking and freezing meals.
Stress means Ryan needs a project, so we moved 12,300 pounds of pea gravel in the play area in one day. It looks great. Even he couldn't believe we did it that fast!
I finished up my 2nd Biggest Loser challenge, this one was 22 weeks, as opposed to 8 weeks. It was from March to August. I was in 3rd or 4th place all the way just based on percent of weight loss, but after the final measurements, I WON!!! Still waiting to collect my prize and see what it is:) The next 8 week challenge starts Sept 11. I am already signed up!
We have started the tornado of 2nd birthday parties, starting with Casey's cousins, and a friend, and now we have a few every month for the next year, lol. We know a lot of babies from me teaching prenatal water aerobics for so long:)
We are really enjoying the fresh produce this time of year.....melons galore, corn on the cob, onions, peppers, jalapenos, tomatoes, green beans, peaches, plums, nectarines and oh the berries.....I will be sad when the season ends.
Well, I have to get back to Words with Friends...so that is all I have for now. I need to come up with a good topic for the blog....
Casey of course is still growing like a crazy weed. He was 3 feet tall today, and outgrew the Doctor's table to get measured. He is 31-32 pounds, which is down a little, as he has been sick. He is working really hard on communicating, and picks up new words and phrases all the time. This makes him really happy and excited, he loves when we understand each other.
I made my first batch of laundry soap the other day, and homemade Draino, and next on the list is dishwasher soap. We seem to run the dishwasher every single day, since we eat all our meals at home, and actually cook!! Together, we have lost 75 pounds! And more importantly, the healthy way. As the weather changes and everyone else goes back to school, I feel this nesting craze, and since I have no one to get ready for school, I am getting us ready for fall:) Lots of organizing and getting rid of stuff, cleaning, cooking and freezing meals.
Stress means Ryan needs a project, so we moved 12,300 pounds of pea gravel in the play area in one day. It looks great. Even he couldn't believe we did it that fast!
I finished up my 2nd Biggest Loser challenge, this one was 22 weeks, as opposed to 8 weeks. It was from March to August. I was in 3rd or 4th place all the way just based on percent of weight loss, but after the final measurements, I WON!!! Still waiting to collect my prize and see what it is:) The next 8 week challenge starts Sept 11. I am already signed up!
We have started the tornado of 2nd birthday parties, starting with Casey's cousins, and a friend, and now we have a few every month for the next year, lol. We know a lot of babies from me teaching prenatal water aerobics for so long:)
We are really enjoying the fresh produce this time of year.....melons galore, corn on the cob, onions, peppers, jalapenos, tomatoes, green beans, peaches, plums, nectarines and oh the berries.....I will be sad when the season ends.
Well, I have to get back to Words with Friends...so that is all I have for now. I need to come up with a good topic for the blog....
Sunday, May 22, 2011
A post about ME!
I love to talk about Casey...but today, I want to brag about myself. Because I am so proud and I feel so good!
Since December I have lost 43 pounds! I have tried lots of times to lose weight, and I lose 10-15 pounds, only to gain it back again. I tried weight watchers 3 times. I tried the South Beach Diet twice.
I have it figured out. It's a lifestyle change, not a diet. It's calories in and calories out. I enjoy this. I feel so much better. I have worked really hard, and I feel strong. My endurance has increased so much. I love the outside, and I LOVE walking, hiking, biking etc. I love kickboxing, step aerobics, water aerobics and working hard!! I have a heart rate monitor that tracks my calories burned. It makes me work harder when I know my HR, and I can increase it, and watch the cals burned increased!
I got a wonderful compliment yesterday, that I have totally transformed my body:) While I still have a long ways to go, that felt really good to hear. I also got to go shopping, and bought a whole new summer wardrobe! I started selling my old clothes, because I will never need them again! I am down 3-4 sizes. It was fun to grab clothes to try on, and they all fit.
I know this is a lifestyle change, because even after surgery, I lost weight. Even after 2 weeks of traveling, and eating on the go, I lost weight. No excuses. I can do it.
I have a wonderful support system. I have a wonderful group of "Biggest Losers" from my gym. We have a facebook page and do challenges together. We encourage each other and push each other. I have my "myfitnesspal" group too. And my family, who is also a bunch of "losers". And my wonderful hubby, who continually encourages me, and reminds me that I am awesome, regardless of what I weigh. He has also lost weight, and is my favorite workout buddy. Now we have gym dates! And also, I am just a couple pounds away from weighing less than him...which has never happened as long as I have known him (4 amazing years!!).
I am looking forward to hitting my next goals. 45, then 50 pounds lost! Thanks to everyone for your support and kind words!!
I will have to post pics soon!
Since December I have lost 43 pounds! I have tried lots of times to lose weight, and I lose 10-15 pounds, only to gain it back again. I tried weight watchers 3 times. I tried the South Beach Diet twice.
I have it figured out. It's a lifestyle change, not a diet. It's calories in and calories out. I enjoy this. I feel so much better. I have worked really hard, and I feel strong. My endurance has increased so much. I love the outside, and I LOVE walking, hiking, biking etc. I love kickboxing, step aerobics, water aerobics and working hard!! I have a heart rate monitor that tracks my calories burned. It makes me work harder when I know my HR, and I can increase it, and watch the cals burned increased!
I got a wonderful compliment yesterday, that I have totally transformed my body:) While I still have a long ways to go, that felt really good to hear. I also got to go shopping, and bought a whole new summer wardrobe! I started selling my old clothes, because I will never need them again! I am down 3-4 sizes. It was fun to grab clothes to try on, and they all fit.
I know this is a lifestyle change, because even after surgery, I lost weight. Even after 2 weeks of traveling, and eating on the go, I lost weight. No excuses. I can do it.
I have a wonderful support system. I have a wonderful group of "Biggest Losers" from my gym. We have a facebook page and do challenges together. We encourage each other and push each other. I have my "myfitnesspal" group too. And my family, who is also a bunch of "losers". And my wonderful hubby, who continually encourages me, and reminds me that I am awesome, regardless of what I weigh. He has also lost weight, and is my favorite workout buddy. Now we have gym dates! And also, I am just a couple pounds away from weighing less than him...which has never happened as long as I have known him (4 amazing years!!).
I am looking forward to hitting my next goals. 45, then 50 pounds lost! Thanks to everyone for your support and kind words!!
I will have to post pics soon!
Sunday, May 8, 2011
Mother's Day
Happy Mother's Day! Now there are 2 reasons to celebrate...my wonderful Mom, and the fact that I get to be a Mom to Casey.
I think becoming a Mom is the ultimate bonding between Mother and daughter. I have always been close to my Mom, my whole family, really. But, sharing experiences throughout my pregnancy, through childbirth, and now as a Mom, is just a whole new level:) And also, it is so much fun to see my Mom (and Dad of course) play with Casey! I am pretty sure my Mom takes Gramma of the century award...there are 4 very lucky little boys who call her Gramma!!
You can't read it on Casey's shirt, but the shirt he is wearing says "Dad is the boss, until Mom comes home". LOL. We had a fun family day. Still limited with my broken wing, but we walked an hour this morning. Slow and easy....it's really weird not pushing the stroller. Did a little shopping, had Subway for lunch. We took Casey to the neighborhood park this afternoon to go sliding and swinging. We made a turkey breast tenderloin in the crockpot for dinner, with potatos and asparagus. Yum! I am not the most fun person without pain meds....or with really. I am either zombie or cranky...but hopefully this arm will be back to normal soon.
I really love being Casey's Mom. He can melt my heart with a smile, a hug, a laugh....or when he comes up and holds my hand. He took his Dad's hand at the store today, than mine. He looked back and forth between us and laughed. Just precious. When I pick up Casey from daycare, I love that he runs full speed from where ever he is, shreiking and laughing and arms raised to hug me. Makes me feel pretty dang loved! Casey has been giving kisses, but he really likes open mouth kisses, pretty sloppy! He loves the dogs so much. We are working on being gentle, and petting them gently. He likes to play fetch with them. He likes all dogs he sees on our walks and points them all out.
Friday, May 6, 2011
17 months and counting
Totally missed the 16 month blog. Been pretty busy around here for sure:) Won't be long til 18months, yikes! Guess we should do some family photos....oooh wheels are turning in my head....
Back on track. My little monkey man. Busy busy child! Casey just never really slows down, although he is definitely more huggy and lovey now. He is really picking up on language and saying some cute things. Unless you speak Casey-ese, it's really hard to understand. He is still on the top of the growth charts, he is almost 30 pounds and 33.9 inches. He is blonder than blond, and cuter than cute:) No bias here of course. He went from eating everything to next to nothing, although he still loves pretty much all fruits and veggies. That's good, we can build on that. We switched daycares and are happy with his new care. It's hard to trust someone else, and we really have to do a center, as we have no family for backup here. We will rethink our options with baby #2. No, no news on that. No, you can't ask.
Casey LOVES to be outdoors. This is perfect, because so do Ryan and I:) Casey loves to go for bike rides, walks in the stroller, hikes in the pack, he loves to ride his trike, his wagon, push his trike and wagon, play basketball, play in the grass, tell the dogs what to do, go to the park, swing, play in the cul da sac (and let's be honest, the street is far more exciting). Casey plays hard and naps hard. He likes to ride his trike away from the house, but screams if you go twards, because he thinks you might take him inside:). I have to trick him into letting me push him fast, so it's a game. Casey also loves the bath, and swimming. He likes splashing:) He is a big fan of doing things himself. The spoon, the stairs, carrying his shoes, putting his cups in the sink, helping put clothes in the dryer, sweeping, mopping, wiping things with rags.....so helpful!
Well, pian meds are wearing off and it's bed time.....will update more later....
Back on track. My little monkey man. Busy busy child! Casey just never really slows down, although he is definitely more huggy and lovey now. He is really picking up on language and saying some cute things. Unless you speak Casey-ese, it's really hard to understand. He is still on the top of the growth charts, he is almost 30 pounds and 33.9 inches. He is blonder than blond, and cuter than cute:) No bias here of course. He went from eating everything to next to nothing, although he still loves pretty much all fruits and veggies. That's good, we can build on that. We switched daycares and are happy with his new care. It's hard to trust someone else, and we really have to do a center, as we have no family for backup here. We will rethink our options with baby #2. No, no news on that. No, you can't ask.
Casey LOVES to be outdoors. This is perfect, because so do Ryan and I:) Casey loves to go for bike rides, walks in the stroller, hikes in the pack, he loves to ride his trike, his wagon, push his trike and wagon, play basketball, play in the grass, tell the dogs what to do, go to the park, swing, play in the cul da sac (and let's be honest, the street is far more exciting). Casey plays hard and naps hard. He likes to ride his trike away from the house, but screams if you go twards, because he thinks you might take him inside:). I have to trick him into letting me push him fast, so it's a game. Casey also loves the bath, and swimming. He likes splashing:) He is a big fan of doing things himself. The spoon, the stairs, carrying his shoes, putting his cups in the sink, helping put clothes in the dryer, sweeping, mopping, wiping things with rags.....so helpful!
Well, pian meds are wearing off and it's bed time.....will update more later....
One last surgery
Well I am just ridiculously behind on my blog. No promises to change, I'll just update:) Monday I had the titanium rod out of my arm. Surely third surgery is the charm. I wasn't even going to do it, but Dr. Hazel said it would never get any better than how it was, and I think it was holding me back too much. At least now I KNOW, I have done everything possible. It's best to do the surgery while I only have one child, before summer is here, before I am elderly! All my favorite things seem to aggravate it, so now....it is gone. And man, it was huge! I can see how my arm rejected that thing! I can totally see why it was hurting! So glad it's out. And I was very lucky my Mom, Kelly and Jenna came up to help with Casey and I. Ryan was able to stay with me at the hospital and Casey got to play with his cousin:) Casey just adored his Auntie Kelly, and also the fact that the more he loved on her, the more upset his cousin got....silly monkey! How do kids learn these things?! It was a beautiful weekend pre-surgery, perfect to go to the park, have some MyFroYo, take lots of walks in the sun, and play in the pool at the gym. So Ryan and I got a "hospital date", which wasn't as fun as our first overnight date for our wedding anniversary last year. I am not much of a conversationalist when glassy eyed and morphined up. And throwing up wasn't exactly flirty. Nothing hot about an allergic reaction! I am lucky Ryan keeps me around:) I would have traded me in a long time ago.
Friday, February 18, 2011
15 months
In a few days Casey will be 15 months! He is busy growing, learning and changing.
We are really liking the "school" he is at. He comes home with new tricks each time he is there. One day he came home and spun in circles the rest of the day. He really likes to shut the door, and put things away. Although, not necessarily when I want him to:) We did Valentine's for his little class of 7. And a little basket for Miss Cynthia. Casey has been stealing pacifiers in class. Not surprising! He was bit the other day, and has a huge full bite mark on his arm! I am sure it won't be long til he bites someone. He played in shaving cream the other day, and gets to paint a lot. So we got a bath time paint set for Casey for Valentine's Day! He got the cutest animal book from Gramma and Grandpa....when you press on the fuzzy animal it makes the noise....its adorable and he loves it!
We are still fighting the runny nose and cough, the nose may be from all the teething he is doing. The Doctor thinks he has Reactive Airway Disease, which is basically baby asthma, which he will hopefully outgrow. We have done a lot of breathing treatments...I am an old pro, after doing those with Jenna growing up! Going to a new daycare is hard with germs too. Casey got sick at school last Friday, so I left work to go pick him up, poor guy developed a 100.8 fever after I dropped him!
Casey is getting way too big. He learned to climb up on the couch, and then the kitchen chairs. Then he almost got all the way on the kitchen table from the chair! He is trouble!
I took him by my office to see everyone. He walked into a full room of mostly strangers, and he just lights up. Laughs, chatters and melts every ones hearts. He is so happy and full of life. He loves everything. Tonight we went swimming, and he laughed and shrieked and splashed. He is always content going for a walk in the stroller or hiking backpack. He loves his bath. He loves to chase the dogs and pull his wagon, ride his toys and throw anything and everything. He has the best personality. He is still a great napper and a great sleeper. He helps with the laundry by putting the basket on his head. He is hilarious. He loves to "get you" and to chase you. We played hide and seek a few days ago, where I hid and he came to find me. He enjoys everything. He is just a great kid!!!
Ryan and I are also doing pretty good. We have been getting quite a few date nights, trading with a couple friends. We have been working out a lot and playing outside anytime it's not raining and blowing us away outside. I am back seeing the Dr to see if my arm can get any better. We have been doing Badger Mtn again, now that the weather has warmed a little. We can't wait for spring and day light savings time. Almost time to dust off the bikes.....
We are really liking the "school" he is at. He comes home with new tricks each time he is there. One day he came home and spun in circles the rest of the day. He really likes to shut the door, and put things away. Although, not necessarily when I want him to:) We did Valentine's for his little class of 7. And a little basket for Miss Cynthia. Casey has been stealing pacifiers in class. Not surprising! He was bit the other day, and has a huge full bite mark on his arm! I am sure it won't be long til he bites someone. He played in shaving cream the other day, and gets to paint a lot. So we got a bath time paint set for Casey for Valentine's Day! He got the cutest animal book from Gramma and Grandpa....when you press on the fuzzy animal it makes the noise....its adorable and he loves it!
We are still fighting the runny nose and cough, the nose may be from all the teething he is doing. The Doctor thinks he has Reactive Airway Disease, which is basically baby asthma, which he will hopefully outgrow. We have done a lot of breathing treatments...I am an old pro, after doing those with Jenna growing up! Going to a new daycare is hard with germs too. Casey got sick at school last Friday, so I left work to go pick him up, poor guy developed a 100.8 fever after I dropped him!
Casey is getting way too big. He learned to climb up on the couch, and then the kitchen chairs. Then he almost got all the way on the kitchen table from the chair! He is trouble!
I took him by my office to see everyone. He walked into a full room of mostly strangers, and he just lights up. Laughs, chatters and melts every ones hearts. He is so happy and full of life. He loves everything. Tonight we went swimming, and he laughed and shrieked and splashed. He is always content going for a walk in the stroller or hiking backpack. He loves his bath. He loves to chase the dogs and pull his wagon, ride his toys and throw anything and everything. He has the best personality. He is still a great napper and a great sleeper. He helps with the laundry by putting the basket on his head. He is hilarious. He loves to "get you" and to chase you. We played hide and seek a few days ago, where I hid and he came to find me. He enjoys everything. He is just a great kid!!!
Ryan and I are also doing pretty good. We have been getting quite a few date nights, trading with a couple friends. We have been working out a lot and playing outside anytime it's not raining and blowing us away outside. I am back seeing the Dr to see if my arm can get any better. We have been doing Badger Mtn again, now that the weather has warmed a little. We can't wait for spring and day light savings time. Almost time to dust off the bikes.....
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
14 months old
Oh goodness, it gets harder and harder to update this...but I love writing these things down.
Casey is doing awesome. He is still getting over a nasty bronchitis/ear infection, but he is definitely feeling better. We are getting the giggles we love so much. His antibiotics are a pain, he can't have milk 2 hours before or after, so we have been doing formula again around med time. Luckily we are almost done.
Casey is working hard on talking! He has mastered Uh-oh, it used to be uh-uh. He says doggy (without the g sound) and he says Dada and means it! He also mastered nana, and ba, but hasn't quite put them together for banana- his most favorite food ever. He seems to know mama, but doesn't always use it. This morning Ryan swears he said ello, when Ryan said "do you have jello?" He is definitely imitating sounds. Casey also answers your questions with "yea"....to every questions. It's pretty adorable. When he wants your attention, he will come up and say "eh?" until you answer him:)
This month Casey started at a full day preschool. He still goes just part time, but he is adjusting well, and interacting well. The teachers at his school all have to have a Bachelors degree, and are all bilingual, so Casey is learning Spanish, lol. I went to pick him up and he was sitting with 4 other kids on a rug with his teacher, Miss Cynthia, who was reading in Spanish, then English. Adorable. Miss Cynthia said Casey is warming up to the other kids (they are all 1-2 years old) and participating. They are curriculum based and have lots of fun. We get a classroom newsletter on what they are working on each week, so we can reinforce it at home. Casey painted the other day, the first time he didn't want to, but this time he held his hand out for paint when his little friends did. (Already influenced by his peers, oh man!) He danced with them, and sits nicely at circle time. They feed him breakfast, lunch and 2 snacks per day. We are really happy so far. This morning, he smiled and laughed when we pulled up. He is adjusting to naps there, which are on a cot in the classroom. This week they are focusing on the color red, and fire trucks. Last night, when he was at the gym daycare, he ran and found a red truck and brought it to us very proudly...he is learning! Smart kid!
On New Years we headed to Spokane to meet up with our good friends Casi and Chamisa, who were in town from Missouri, where Dr. Chamisa is interning at the Univerity of Missouri. We went to Chuck E Cheese...which Casey loved! He did try to steal some skee balls- and was pretty mad when I stopped him! He had lots of fun on the toddler slide, and even found a little friend, a cute little girl whose butt he patted! So funny! She taught him to go down the slide backwards, which he then took home and went down the entire set of stairs backwards! Yay! We had been working on going down stairs, but it wasn't clicking till a little 15 month old cutie taught him how. We won't tell his girlfriend, Maya.
He is quickly outgrowing his 18 month clothes. He is very long in the torso, and has a big belly, so he isn't fitting well into 18month shirts, we are doing mostly 2T. His 18 month pants still fit, but his 18 month jammies are getting tight. Such a big boy! Still 97% for height:)
We are just plugging along after the holidays, back into the routine and day to day life. Seems like we are always busy, but we have been getting some date nights! We have 2 different couples we have been trading date nights with...looking forward to this Sunday, our next date!!
Casey is doing awesome. He is still getting over a nasty bronchitis/ear infection, but he is definitely feeling better. We are getting the giggles we love so much. His antibiotics are a pain, he can't have milk 2 hours before or after, so we have been doing formula again around med time. Luckily we are almost done.
Casey is working hard on talking! He has mastered Uh-oh, it used to be uh-uh. He says doggy (without the g sound) and he says Dada and means it! He also mastered nana, and ba, but hasn't quite put them together for banana- his most favorite food ever. He seems to know mama, but doesn't always use it. This morning Ryan swears he said ello, when Ryan said "do you have jello?" He is definitely imitating sounds. Casey also answers your questions with "yea"....to every questions. It's pretty adorable. When he wants your attention, he will come up and say "eh?" until you answer him:)
This month Casey started at a full day preschool. He still goes just part time, but he is adjusting well, and interacting well. The teachers at his school all have to have a Bachelors degree, and are all bilingual, so Casey is learning Spanish, lol. I went to pick him up and he was sitting with 4 other kids on a rug with his teacher, Miss Cynthia, who was reading in Spanish, then English. Adorable. Miss Cynthia said Casey is warming up to the other kids (they are all 1-2 years old) and participating. They are curriculum based and have lots of fun. We get a classroom newsletter on what they are working on each week, so we can reinforce it at home. Casey painted the other day, the first time he didn't want to, but this time he held his hand out for paint when his little friends did. (Already influenced by his peers, oh man!) He danced with them, and sits nicely at circle time. They feed him breakfast, lunch and 2 snacks per day. We are really happy so far. This morning, he smiled and laughed when we pulled up. He is adjusting to naps there, which are on a cot in the classroom. This week they are focusing on the color red, and fire trucks. Last night, when he was at the gym daycare, he ran and found a red truck and brought it to us very proudly...he is learning! Smart kid!
On New Years we headed to Spokane to meet up with our good friends Casi and Chamisa, who were in town from Missouri, where Dr. Chamisa is interning at the Univerity of Missouri. We went to Chuck E Cheese...which Casey loved! He did try to steal some skee balls- and was pretty mad when I stopped him! He had lots of fun on the toddler slide, and even found a little friend, a cute little girl whose butt he patted! So funny! She taught him to go down the slide backwards, which he then took home and went down the entire set of stairs backwards! Yay! We had been working on going down stairs, but it wasn't clicking till a little 15 month old cutie taught him how. We won't tell his girlfriend, Maya.
He is quickly outgrowing his 18 month clothes. He is very long in the torso, and has a big belly, so he isn't fitting well into 18month shirts, we are doing mostly 2T. His 18 month pants still fit, but his 18 month jammies are getting tight. Such a big boy! Still 97% for height:)
We are just plugging along after the holidays, back into the routine and day to day life. Seems like we are always busy, but we have been getting some date nights! We have 2 different couples we have been trading date nights with...looking forward to this Sunday, our next date!!
Monday, January 10, 2011
Sick Baby
I am sitting in the family room, afraid to move other than typing. I am cursing the barking dogs, and my cell phone somewhere in the house that just rang, and who ever called it...Casey is laying on the living room floor....asleep. He is sad, crabby, feverish and just plain sick. I was up most of the night with him, he just feels awful, poor guy. We slept in the guest room half the night, so Ryan could sleep for work. I called in sick today, and am snuggling with Casey. Well, I was, until he wandered off, laid down and fell asleep. For the most part, he has been using me as his snot and drool rag, laying in my lap and dozing. As long as he is sleeping, even on the floor, at least he isn't crying! Poor baby. It's no fun when you can't make them feel better.
Friday, December 24, 2010
13 months
Casey's birthday has come and gone, and December is flying by. Casey is now 13 months old! He has mastered the whole walking/running thing...and is working hard on being verbal! He has been saying mama,dada, baba for a long time....but he doesnt use them in association with anything, so we are working on that! The first thing he has said with meaning, is Uh-Oh, although he pronounces it "uh-uh". He says this when he drops/throws something. He even uses the right tone! He is starting to say d-d-d-d-d when he sees his doggies. He says Eh? with the inquisitory tone when he wants you to pay attention to something. Last night, we babysat a friends little girl, who is 3. When she stopped paying attention to Casey, boy did he get vocal! He stood next to her and yelled "Eh?! Eh?!" over and over.....as in "Adeline, play with me!!"
Just now, I had to get up and find Casey, because he tore down the baby gate at the bottom of the stairs and went up. He thought it was hilarious when I found him, and promptly ran away, looking back to make sure I was chasing him. He loves to chase and to be chased! Casey also really likes pretending games. He will pretend to be asleep and then wake up, he loves peek a boo, he loves to give you his pacifier and then take it back. He likes the round laundry basket, he puts it on his head and walks around. He likes to try and put on hats, if you hand him one he knows where it goes. Same with socks, when he sees them, he hands you a foot, then the other.
Casey is now giving hugs, and loves on his own. He also gives kisses, with his mouth open and tongue out! While he is as busy as ever, he will come over and hug you, and go back to playing, he also hugs your legs. Last night, he went up and gave Adeline a big hug. So cute....talk about melting your heart! He also gets so excited when he sees Mom or Dad, when we come home from work. He smiles and laughs and wants you to pick him up and smother him with love.
It's amazing how quick he learns, and how everything is so fun and exciting for him. He learned to give high five, and is so proud of himself when he does it. He just thinks it is the funniest thing. He loves the wii fit board, and will stand on it forever. We are very glad he ignores the TV when it is on, he is too busy playing, going from one activity to another. The American Pediatric Association recommends no TV time, computer or video game time til at least 2, so we never put shows on for him, and never try to get him to watch. Luckily, this is easy, as he is just not interested anyways.
Casey starts in January at a full day preschool. He is going to love it, and will get lots of exposure to learning on the days he is there. He only goes about 2 days a week, and is home with Daddy the rest of the days. He loves the daycare at our gym, and has learned they give snacks....when we put him in there, he will go stand next to the high chair!
Today is Christmas Eve, we are waiting for Daddy to wake up! He works all weekend, but we celebrate when he is home. We make it work for us:) We are glad Ryan has a job he enjoys, and take the hours and shifts as they fall. It just happened to fall on Christmas the last 2 years. Casey isnt old enough to notice of course.
We celebrated Christmas with my family last weekend, where Casey got to play with all his cousins. They are so funny together. We were very spoiled with fabulous prime rib, made by my Dad....along with more appetizers, food and dessert than you can imagine. YUM! We got lots of fun gifts, and went to Zoo Lights with Matt, Kelly and Caleb. We took more photos with Santa at the WSU Cougar reception there!
Merry Christmas everyone! We are off to celebrate and spend time together as a family:) I love this little family I have been blessed with! And the HUGE extended family we have!
Just now, I had to get up and find Casey, because he tore down the baby gate at the bottom of the stairs and went up. He thought it was hilarious when I found him, and promptly ran away, looking back to make sure I was chasing him. He loves to chase and to be chased! Casey also really likes pretending games. He will pretend to be asleep and then wake up, he loves peek a boo, he loves to give you his pacifier and then take it back. He likes the round laundry basket, he puts it on his head and walks around. He likes to try and put on hats, if you hand him one he knows where it goes. Same with socks, when he sees them, he hands you a foot, then the other.
Casey is now giving hugs, and loves on his own. He also gives kisses, with his mouth open and tongue out! While he is as busy as ever, he will come over and hug you, and go back to playing, he also hugs your legs. Last night, he went up and gave Adeline a big hug. So cute....talk about melting your heart! He also gets so excited when he sees Mom or Dad, when we come home from work. He smiles and laughs and wants you to pick him up and smother him with love.
It's amazing how quick he learns, and how everything is so fun and exciting for him. He learned to give high five, and is so proud of himself when he does it. He just thinks it is the funniest thing. He loves the wii fit board, and will stand on it forever. We are very glad he ignores the TV when it is on, he is too busy playing, going from one activity to another. The American Pediatric Association recommends no TV time, computer or video game time til at least 2, so we never put shows on for him, and never try to get him to watch. Luckily, this is easy, as he is just not interested anyways.
Casey starts in January at a full day preschool. He is going to love it, and will get lots of exposure to learning on the days he is there. He only goes about 2 days a week, and is home with Daddy the rest of the days. He loves the daycare at our gym, and has learned they give snacks....when we put him in there, he will go stand next to the high chair!
Today is Christmas Eve, we are waiting for Daddy to wake up! He works all weekend, but we celebrate when he is home. We make it work for us:) We are glad Ryan has a job he enjoys, and take the hours and shifts as they fall. It just happened to fall on Christmas the last 2 years. Casey isnt old enough to notice of course.
We celebrated Christmas with my family last weekend, where Casey got to play with all his cousins. They are so funny together. We were very spoiled with fabulous prime rib, made by my Dad....along with more appetizers, food and dessert than you can imagine. YUM! We got lots of fun gifts, and went to Zoo Lights with Matt, Kelly and Caleb. We took more photos with Santa at the WSU Cougar reception there!
Merry Christmas everyone! We are off to celebrate and spend time together as a family:) I love this little family I have been blessed with! And the HUGE extended family we have!
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
xmascard
Classic Greeting Christmas 5x7 folded card
Shop Shutterfly for elegant custom Christmas photo cards.
View the entire collection of cards.
Sunday, November 28, 2010
Casey is ONE!!
Well, somehow Casey made it to one. A year ago, it seemed so far off and here it is. Everyone says they grow up so fast. It's true. Everyday is something new, something exciting and something fun. Definitely a learning experience. When I took Casey in for his one year check up, the nurse, Cindy, told me that she loved to see Ryan and I's enthusiam for being parents, how excited we are over everything Casey does, and how interested we are. That made me smile. 
Casey is still a happy go lucky kid. He laughs at everything. Smiles at everyone. Flirts with the ladies. Squeals all the time. Shrieks at his dogs, chases his Dad, He and Daddy try to sneak up on Mommy, but Casey gives it away everytime with giggles. He is fearless and bold. He tries everything with reckless abandon, and shakes off injuries. He is tough. He loves trucks and toys that make noise. The higher the swing the better. The higher Daddy throws him, the louder he laughs. He likes to play in mud puddles and splash in puddles and crawl in wet grass. He plays hard...go go go, and naps hard. He still takes 2-3 good naps during the day, but when he awake, he is always on the move. He goes to bed at 8, and is up at 6:30-7am.
We had an open house for Casey's birthday, from 3-7 at our house. There isn't much 1 year olds can do, and they don't get the concept...so we figured people could drop by and say hello and celebrate if they could. Casey wasn't interested in heping open gifts...he was interested in ripping paper, boxes, playing in the mess...like any 1 year old. And who am I to force him to sit down and open his gifts, so I did most of it for him. I did manage to get one picture!
Casey loves Mya, his girlfriend. Look at that silly, giddy grin. The sugar high may have had something to do with it as well.
CAKE!!! He demolished his cake. I couldn't believe how much cake Casey ate! He just kept eating and eating and eating.....
Happy Birthday Casey! At his one year check up, Casey weighed 23.5 pounds (68%) and was 31.5 inches long (97%). So, he continues to be huge:) He is already quite the athlete, and appears to be left handed! Daddy can't wait to teach him some sports. As busy as he is, he is going to need to play a lot of sports to stay out of trouble.
Casey is still a happy go lucky kid. He laughs at everything. Smiles at everyone. Flirts with the ladies. Squeals all the time. Shrieks at his dogs, chases his Dad, He and Daddy try to sneak up on Mommy, but Casey gives it away everytime with giggles. He is fearless and bold. He tries everything with reckless abandon, and shakes off injuries. He is tough. He loves trucks and toys that make noise. The higher the swing the better. The higher Daddy throws him, the louder he laughs. He likes to play in mud puddles and splash in puddles and crawl in wet grass. He plays hard...go go go, and naps hard. He still takes 2-3 good naps during the day, but when he awake, he is always on the move. He goes to bed at 8, and is up at 6:30-7am.
We had an open house for Casey's birthday, from 3-7 at our house. There isn't much 1 year olds can do, and they don't get the concept...so we figured people could drop by and say hello and celebrate if they could. Casey wasn't interested in heping open gifts...he was interested in ripping paper, boxes, playing in the mess...like any 1 year old. And who am I to force him to sit down and open his gifts, so I did most of it for him. I did manage to get one picture!
Casey loves Mya, his girlfriend. Look at that silly, giddy grin. The sugar high may have had something to do with it as well.
CAKE!!! He demolished his cake. I couldn't believe how much cake Casey ate! He just kept eating and eating and eating.....
Happy Birthday Casey! At his one year check up, Casey weighed 23.5 pounds (68%) and was 31.5 inches long (97%). So, he continues to be huge:) He is already quite the athlete, and appears to be left handed! Daddy can't wait to teach him some sports. As busy as he is, he is going to need to play a lot of sports to stay out of trouble.
Turkey Trot 2010
We were pretty excited to do the Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving morning this year, except for one thing: SNOW! The Turkey Trot is the Benton-Franklin Red Cross's Annual Fundraiser, and I was sad maybe they wouldn't have a good turn out this year, because seriously, who wants to run in the snow? Turns out, everyone does! This was the biggest turn out ever, with 3300 people! It was 14 degrees and snowing. We dressed in underarmour and as many layers as possible. Ryan reminded me the last time I wore his underarmour it was cut off me in the emergency room. While I promised this would not happen again, I was not entirely convinced, because we were planning on running/walking on snow and ice. Alright, there was really no running involved, because of 1) the snow and ice 2) the 24 pound baby strapped to my chest decked out in a snowsuit and 3) the pulled muscle in my left calf.
We saw some pretty amazing things at the Turkey Trot. Let me highlight some of my favorites. I would like to reiterate that it was 14 degrees and snowing, quite heavily at times. 
We saw some pretty amazing things at the Turkey Trot. Let me highlight some of my favorites. I would like to reiterate that it was 14 degrees and snowing, quite heavily at times. *A man who ran the entire race in teeny tiny running shorts and nothing else (At the end Ryan ran after this man like the paparazzi trying to take his picture)
*Men running with no shirts
*Multiple people running with short shorts
*A guy with running shoes that looked like socks with toes
*A man with spandex that were neon pink and flowered.
*Lots of people with turkey hats (like literally looked like cooked turkeys on their heads), turkey feathers and boas, turkey beanies. One entire family had bright neon orange matching hunting hats....a good way to not lose a kid.
*Gumby was running the race.
We had a great time. Casey stayed super warm with his multiple layers, snowsuit, and snuggled in his Mai Tai wrap. We shared body heat! I think he may have the warmest person there. I don't think it has ever snowed over here this early and stuck around. Feels more like Christmas than Thanksgiving!
Monday, October 25, 2010
Tis the season to make your Christmas cards!!
I love Christmas! And it just so happens to be on its way! I love sending Christmas cards, and love receiving them. My favorite to receive are photo cards...I scrapbook all the ones we get in the mail.
In the past few years, I have gotten engaged, married and had a baby, and so have many of my friends and family members!....so I have designed many, many, invitations to showers, and many thank you cards...along with Christmas cards.
My *favorite* site to make Christmas cards is Shutterfly. I just recently made Halloween cards from shutterfly, with my favorite pumpkin, Casey, as the centerpiece.
There are a whole bunch I am contemplating for my Christmas card this year... Check these out , I am really liking Starlight Snowflakes, No Mistletoe Neccessary....and a whole lot more. In fact, there are 747 to look through. I can't give you my final choice, you have to wait for it in the mail.
Shutterly is currently offering 20% off all holiday cards, Go Make yours!
In the past few years, I have gotten engaged, married and had a baby, and so have many of my friends and family members!....so I have designed many, many, invitations to showers, and many thank you cards...along with Christmas cards.
My *favorite* site to make Christmas cards is Shutterfly. I just recently made Halloween cards from shutterfly, with my favorite pumpkin, Casey, as the centerpiece.
There are a whole bunch I am contemplating for my Christmas card this year... Check these out , I am really liking Starlight Snowflakes, No Mistletoe Neccessary....and a whole lot more. In fact, there are 747 to look through. I can't give you my final choice, you have to wait for it in the mail.
Shutterly is currently offering 20% off all holiday cards, Go Make yours!
Monday, October 18, 2010
dog show!
Ryan and I train and compete with our aussies, Josh and McKenzie. He competes with Josh, and McKenzie is mine. We are members of the Columbia Basin Dog Training Club...a fun crowd! I have been competing with my dogs since I was in the 5th grade....first Bailey, then Tobie and Rylie, now Josh and McKenzie. I have always loved training, I love my dogs like they are my children, and I am pretty sure any of them would have laid their life down for me if presented the chance.We had our big club show of the year the first weekend of October. I showed McKenzie in Rally Excellent both days. While she didn't behave as well as I had hoped, we still qualified with 3rd place each day. This finished our RE title!! McKenzie is now, Country-Ways French Kiss, RE. She has earned her Rally Novice, Advanced and Excellent titles! Training consistently is difficult with a baby, and with working full time, but we do what we can. Our dogs are certainly pets/children first, training is a necessity to teach them to be good dogs, and competing is just a hobby.
Another fun part of showing, is that my friend Nicole also competes, so we can go together. Nicole and I started showing dogs in 4-H together almost 15 years ago. We also went to the same high school together, worked together in high school, were together at WSU for 4 years, 2 as room mates, and were then in each others weddings! After all these years, Nicole still associates with me:)
Here is Casey at the dog show! He is very busy, but did well 2 full days of shows!
Friday, September 24, 2010
The Pizza Bubble
The Pizza Bubble is one of our new favorite recipes. I found it on a website contest for 7 ingredients or less and the cheapest you can make a recipe. This was the winner. I never follow the recipe exactly, but here is the basics.
1 can pillsbury rolls
6 ounces turkey pepperoni
1 jar pizza sauce
1 can fat free cream of mushroom soup
pineapples
green peppers
onions
2 cups mozzarella cheese
Mix the cream of mushroom soup and pizza sauce. Cut rolls into fourths, add them in, cut pepperonis into fourths, add them in. Mix in pizza ingredients (you can use whatever you like on a pizza...onions, peppers, pineapple and pineapple happen to be what we like). Mix in 1 cup mozzarella cheese. Bake at 350 for 40 minutes in a 9x13 pan. Top with another cup of cheese, bake til melted.
Soooo good, and the leftovers are really good too! Super easy and fast to make. As you can see, pretty cheap, especially because a lot of the ingredients go on sale.
1 can pillsbury rolls
6 ounces turkey pepperoni
1 jar pizza sauce
1 can fat free cream of mushroom soup
pineapples
green peppers
onions
2 cups mozzarella cheese
Mix the cream of mushroom soup and pizza sauce. Cut rolls into fourths, add them in, cut pepperonis into fourths, add them in. Mix in pizza ingredients (you can use whatever you like on a pizza...onions, peppers, pineapple and pineapple happen to be what we like). Mix in 1 cup mozzarella cheese. Bake at 350 for 40 minutes in a 9x13 pan. Top with another cup of cheese, bake til melted.
Soooo good, and the leftovers are really good too! Super easy and fast to make. As you can see, pretty cheap, especially because a lot of the ingredients go on sale.
Sunday, September 19, 2010
Mya's birthday
Casey's girlfriend, and future wife, Mya turned one on Sept. 11th. We went to her birthday party at Keewaydin Park in Kennewick. Casey has never had any real sugar, and I figured we would wait until his 1st birthday, when he could have his very own cake to play in. But when April and Mya asked Casey to strip down and eat cake together....we couldn't say no!
Casey, Mya and Mya's cousin all stripped to their diapers (Casey was super relieved he was wearing his cool Huggies jeans diapers) and we put them on a blanket with the cake. Casey dove right in! He absolutely enjoyed his cake, he is like his Mom! At one point, in an attempt to get closer, Casey sat in the cake! I think he has a good idea...cake should be a whole body experience! At one point, Mya's cousin got too close to the cake, and Casey- full of green frosting- pushed her away, with a trail of green across her chest. Then it was just down to Casey and Mya....eventually Mya started crying because April put a party hat on her, and Casey was the last man standing, or sitting, in the cake. He just kept eating! He was pretty serious about the cake, and looked at it in wonder. When he was done, he went after some party hats and ate those too. 
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)