We're In For It....

Wordless Wednesday- Happy V Day!

2012-02-15T07:45:00.012-05:00

Linking up with The Paper Mama for her photo challenge this week. Also wishing you a Happy Valentine's Day from my little man with the chipped teeth!

It was bound to happen....

2012-02-13T21:01:00.001-05:00

No parent, of course, wants to see their child get hurt. But it happens. I often worry about one day when Gage gets older and he breaks something, or falls off the swing set, or cuts himself so bad that he'll need stitches. I think about rushing my kid to the emergency room for one reason or another. And then I think, maybe I'll get lucky and he won't hurt himself too badly.

I was 4 when I fell at my babysitter's house and my teeth went through my bottom lip. I needed stitches on the inside and out and had to be 'restrained' to put the stitches in. I have still a nasty scar to prove it. I remember breaking my wrist at a skating party in the 6th grade. A LARGE girl fell on me- a girl who wasn't even supposed to be there because it was an elementary skating party.

I remember when my brother gashed open his leg and it required stitches, just playing with my cat. I think he also hurt himself being a boy and jumping out of a swing.

At any rate, kids get hurt and it sucks! Today coming out of daycare, Gage took the wheel chair ramp as he usually does and I took the stairs. He turned the corner and I was no more than 6 feet from him when he broke into a run. He tripped, as he often does and I watched him fall on his arms first before his face went down into the pavement. He started to wail and when I grabbed him up I saw no blood- just a little gravel on his chin. He was really screaming though so I kept checking and then just tried to comfort him to get him to calm down a little. After he was calmer, I gave him another once-over and that's when I saw it. He had the smallest, most symmetrical, I might add, chip out of both of his front teeth. Are you kidding me, I thought?? Anything, but his teeth, which are already a little wacky. By this time he wasn't crying anymore and I checked them and they didn't seem loose and there was still no blood. His lip must have never hit, he literally must have just come down on his little teeth. I felt awful! I was standing no more than yard aways from him when it happened and it was just like any fall. I was always scared of something like this and my worst fears have come true. So much for pictures for the next 3 years! Oh well, I guess it will add character.

The dentist was able to take us right away and she confirmed that she didn't think they were loose or that any 'serious damage' had been done. I'm telling you, he barely even came down on his teeth. We have to go back in 6 weeks to assess the damage. She did warn me his teeth might discolor! Can't wait for that! Not only will my kid have chipped teeth, but chipped brown teeth, really?!? Awesome! Let's hope she's wrong on that one. My poor baby!

And what do you know?

2012-02-09T19:01:00.000-05:00

It's almost been another 2 weeks since I've written a legit post. Ah, I'll catch up someday. So what's been going on here??? I've been taking NO pictures so I can't even share any good ones with you. I still enjoy reading other people's blogs more than writing in my own. It's already Thursday and I feel like this week has flown by and gone SOOO SLOW all at the same time. I've been super busy at work as usual and by the time dinner, bath and bed is done at night, I'm almost ready to turn in myself. I've been hitting the sack NLT 9pm every night!

Nana and Grandiddy came to visit this past weekend and it was so nice to have them. Gage LOVES having them visit and always loves that Nana brings him something new:). This weekend they got to watch him play teeball (I should try to steal some video from her) and got to play with his trains and tool bench with him. He and Nana also made some Valentine's Day cookies. Too bad it wasn't warm enough to make it outside. Mom and I also got to spend a little QT together and went shopping for her birthday, although she didn't find too much she wanted. She did get a few new books. I think I still owe her a little more.....

The weekend went by too quickly as usual and we tried to get a few good photos of Gage and the g-parents, although none turned out well. Hopefully Nana got a few good ones on her camera. The rest of this week and last just seem to blend together. Working my hiney off 'til around 4pm, going to get Gage, running errands or coming home to play for an hour before dinner, bath and bed and it starts all over again. We're kinda in a rut and I'm itching to get out. It's been super nice this year for January/February but it's just so inconsistent that it's driving me crazy. One day will be 30 and the next in the 50's. One day we can play outside and the next we can't. It won't EVER snow, which of course, as a teacher is pretty depressing. I have to say I think I'm over the chance and am just ready to move on to Spring time.

Speaking of Spring time, nothing says Spring like the beach- where Luke and I are headed next weekend, for the 1st time in 6 months! I'm beyond thrilled! More to come on that. So yes, we're still alive, just doing nothing exciting!

AND I don't think I can think of anything funny to post for tomorrow. Gage cracks us up every day, I just forget to document the funny things he says! Have a good weekend! Tomorrow's Friday!

Wordless Wednesday: Better Late Than Never

2012-02-08T18:46:00.000-05:00

Gage eating his 1st nectarine- big boy style!

Happy Birthday Nana!

2012-02-02T08:32:00.000-05:00

Happy Birthday to the best Nana on the planet! Here's a kiss from Gage!

Wordless Wednesday: Favorite Photo(s) of January

2012-02-01T07:53:00.002-05:00

Today I'm back to link up with The Paper Mama and her photo challenge: Favorite Photo of January. I know I've already shown you the one of Gage in my hat, but I really do love it. This top one is pretty cute too, don't you think?

Oh So Silly!

2012-01-30T19:40:00.005-05:00

I know I know, not a real post, just another submission to a photo challenge. But how could I resist putting up a not-at-all-flattering picture of myself just for laughs?

Whew....

2012-01-29T13:15:00.003-05:00

I haven't written a real live blog post in almost 2 weeks. I was so proud- at the beginning of January I was entering challenges and posting almost 5x a week! I was also getting lots of picture taking in. Let's see, where to fill you all in...we've been busy busy around here. Midterms were last week and I spent most of last weekend creating and preparing for the midterm and this weekend grading them. I have been super busy at school having tons of meetings a week...I'm so thrilled to have only two on my calendar for this coming up week! And when I get home I am BEAT! I've been trying to motivate myself to start a new book but by the time 9pm rolls around, I'd rather slep than read!

Gage and I did get to spend some time outside this week because the weather was so super nice. We went on a nice long walk, which we haven't done in months and went to the park one day. Although I'm loving the weather, I have come to the realization there will be no snow days this year, although we did get a 2 hour delay Monday am for ice. We had 3 playdates in the last week and a half and they're getting to be a bit more interesting these days. I'm so involved in making sure everything is going alright that I completely forget to take any pictures.

I do have a few pictures from a couple of weeks ago of Gage's new found love- his tool bench. A colleague of mine who has older kids offered his Home Depot tool bench to Gage before it went to Goodwill. If you remember, at Christmas, Gage had just started liking to 'fix' things, so I said, 'sure, bring it over.' I have no idea.......Gage has been wanting to play with it every.single.day since and asks about it before we even leave school.

This is Gage's drill face

Checking out the circular saw

The toolbench is even complete with a clock.

In the last week, I also received my super cute new camera strap, courtesy of Swanky Camera Couture, an esty.com shop. You likey? These are iPhone shots so might be hard to see the color. I still can't figure out why everyone raves about the iPhone camera.....grrr

I think that's all for now. Hopefully I'll regain my blogging spirit and won't leave you hanging for a week or two next time.

Wordless Wednesday- A Year Ago Today

2012-01-25T06:05:00.000-05:00

My how times have changed. And yes, it looks like somehow I had a combination of chocolate chip panckes plus bologna and cheese.

Happy 1st Birthday Addison!

2012-01-22T08:24:00.002-05:00

I can't remember when I started reading Kat's blog (sometime before she had Addison), but I do believe she is my blogging idol. I LOVE to read her blog and am envious of the amount of comments she gets on her posts. I think I need her to mentor me. But, enough about that. Kat's beautiful little girl, Addison, and I do mean beautiful, is turning 1 today! Please stop over and wish her a very happy day. From what I can tell, she's gonna have a bang up birthday party!

Friday Funnies

2012-01-20T21:07:00.002-05:00

Since I don't have a Twitter or Facebook account, which I think would be a perfect outlet for such things, I'll be posting Gage's 'funnies' of the week on Fridays. Gage is constantly cracking us up and saying the craziest things. He's only 2, so I can't imagine what he will come up with in the future. Last night, Luke and I lay in bed and cracked up about all the things he's been saying lately and go figure, I can't remember a damn one of them right now. To be continued....

I thought of one of many, but it'll hold you over until next week.

Me: Gage, do you want to sit on the potty?
Gage: Yeah, I want to sit on the potty like Baby Jesus!

Yes, folks, that's right, apparently Baby Jesus sat on the potty.

Wordless Wednesday- Mommy's Silly Hat

2012-01-18T08:57:00.002-05:00

I don't know why, but I kinda love this picture

Photo Challenge: White

2012-01-17T13:18:00.003-05:00

Linking up with the Paper Mama for this week's photo challenge: White

Happy Birthday Knox!

2012-01-16T15:37:00.002-05:00

Back in my early blogging days I found Jessica's blog about a Southern girl who had just had a baby and how she was dealing with being a new Mommy. She had great giveaways and I always envied her for losing cloth diapers. Now she's on Baby Boy #2 due in about a month, but yet she still has time to blog. She always has something interesting to write about. Today is her little boy, Knox's 2nd birthday! And boy is he cute! Funny thing is....in certain pictures he reminds me of Gage. Please head on over to wish him a Happy day and leave Jess a comment wishing her luck on her recent pregnancy.

If I had a Facebook or Twitter account....

2012-01-15T12:49:00.000-05:00

Last night I would've posted.....

I'm not sure which is more pathetic, watching the Denver Broncos attempt to play the Patriots or Miss NY attempt to sing 'Disneyland' on the Miss America pageant??

Happy 4th Birthday Rylie!

2012-01-14T15:33:00.003-05:00

Today Gage turns 26 months...ha! In more important news, Rylie over at The Life of Rylie....and Bryce, Too turns the big 4! I am sure her Mama can't believe she's sooo old. Anyway, head on over to wish her a Happy Birthday and check out LeeAnn's awesome blog. LeeAnn shared some blogging secrets with me early on, so help me pay her back by stopping by her blog and saying Hi!

Snow 2011

2012-01-12T07:53:00.004-05:00

First off, let me say that I'm pretty darn frustrated with Blogger. I know for a fact that I specifically checked to see if my Wordless Wednesday post was labeled 'scheduled' or 'draft' and sure enough it was 'scheduled' as of last night and sure enough today, I had to go and pull it out of cyberspace and post it again because the status had been changed to 'draft'. Why does this happen to me? Anyone else have this problem??

Anyway, back to my original post. I call it 'Snow 2012' because tomorrow it's supposed to be 60 and who knows if we'll ever see snow again this Winter. Monday called for 40% of rain and a high in the low 40's. About 1130am some of my kids noticed that it had started to snow, but we're talking you could maybe if you looked really closely, see some white stuff falling from the sky. Not really considered snow, but since we haven't seen any at all this Winter, the kids thought it close enough. Anyway, it proceeded to 'snow' for quite some time, only making the ground a little wet. By dismissal though, at 2pm, actual large snowflakes were beginning to fall and it was sticking a little to the grass. Of course the kids were excited, they're always excited about snow!

By 3pm and the time I left work to pick up Gage, it was snowing the most beautiful large snowflakes ever. You know, the kind that you can look straight up at and see them falling and it was hanging on the trees just perfectly. Really, awesomely, pretty. Too bad I had no camera. By the time I got Gage and came home it was starting to stick to everything and was soo soo pretty. I couldn't wait to let Gage play in his 1st snow ever (that he can actually play in). We ran in and got his snow boots and went to play on the back deck, if nothing else, to see the huge flakes falling from the sky. It was breathtaking. Anyway, I busted out my old point and shoot and ran outside to snap some good pictures of Gage's 1st snow. Just an inch, but snow is snow, especially to a 2 year old. I wanted so badly to get out my new camera, but was so scared of getting it messed up....the snow was the real wet kind. I'll break here to ask if any of my DSLR camera friends know of anything to protect cameras in the snow, or if it's no big deal if they get a little damp, etc.?? I need suggestions! I.will.not. miss another snow with my good camera. Once Luke got hoome (thankfully early, that day to play) I was able to take some pictures from inside the house and the porch with my DSLR and catch some pretty awesome snowflakes. I wish I could've gotten closer to Gage....maybe I'll risk it next time.

Wordless Wednesday: Favorite Photos of 2011

2012-01-11T07:34:00.009-05:00

Today I'm doubling up and linking up with the Paper Mama for her weekly photo challenge! Here are my 3 favorite photos of 2011. And yes, they are all taken within the last 2 weeks of the year with my new camera!

I think this picture turned out really cool (on accident). It would be that much better if it were Gage's Daddy in the background and not a good friend of mine!

Thought this was a cool angle

My 2 boys!

I Heart Faces Photo Challenge

2012-01-09T21:01:00.000-05:00

Although this photo challenge is completely out of my league and overwhelming, it's still fun! Here is the Best Face of 2011 as far as I'm concerned.

This is Gage's 'sour' face.

A few things...

2012-01-08T15:28:00.001-05:00

I want to remember. This past Thursday, Jan 5th (2 years and 1 month), Gage peed on the potty for the 1st time! Don't get me wrong, I don't think potty training is right around the corner or anything, but just wanted to document it for memory purposes.

Also, a kind of funny situation from daycare on Friday morning. Somehow I managed to get Gage to school with only half of his breakfast and didn't realize it until I was all the way there. Daycare is just 8 mins. from my house so it's not too big of a deal, but usually if I forget something I notice before we get all the way there. In any case, I just brought him oranges and left his waffle at home. I knew he didn't like what they were having for lunch that day so I figured I should probably run home and get it, although I had a 730am meeting. I sat him down at his table as usual with his friends and breakfast and told him I'd be back in about 20 mins.

When I got in the car to race home, I couldn't help but think that by the time I got back Gage would be up and playing with the other kids and could careless about the waffle I sped home to get. I figured it wouldn't even get eaten anyway. When I got back (about 19 mins. later) I walked in to find all the kids in Gage's class playing and Gage still sitting at the table, already done with his oranges. I gave a questioning look to the teacher and she said, 'I told him to go play and that he could sit back down when you got back and he told me, 'Mommy coming back, she bring me waffle'. and he wouldn't budge. My heart melted a little.....what a sweet boy!

Finally this weekend was Gage's 1st experience with toddler teeball! As you all have heard me talk about, Gage's coordination is AWFUL and I figured the only way it's going to get better is by putting him in activities that promote coordination. The SoccerTots program is very popular in our area and I'm guessing because it's the easiest sport for a kid, alot of people enroll their kids in it early on. Neither Luke nor I are very interested in soccer, so I wanted to try the Lil Sluggers program instead. As we suspected, Gage is a little young and a little uncoordinated, but I think we're going to stick with it anyway. There was only 1 other kid in the class and he got alot of attention, so we'll see how it goes. Maybe he'll at least learn to catch a ball. Here are a few pictures, not very good, but at least something to document his 1st lesson.

Can you believe the size of those bats?

Gage's Vocab....

2012-01-06T22:38:00.000-05:00

Long ago, when Gage first started to talk I began a vocabulary list on the side bar to keep track of what Gage said and how many words he had. Obviously now that he's 2, the point is moot and I'd like to use that space for something else. But I still wanted to save the information somewhere, so I thought I'd post about it.......albeit months later.

In no particular order learned... begun at 10 months...

kitty, Daddy, poo-poo, bye-bye, meow, eat, tree, cheese, hi, uh- oh, 'blu'- balloon, 'bir'- bird, 'gook'- book, 'buh-buh'- bubble, 'tuh-dow'- touchdown, 'booooo'- moo and 'boo' for when he's trying to scare you, 'bye-pur'- diaper, 'it-c' (as in the Bitsy spider), 'bal'- ball, baby, 'beh-b'- belly, up, all done, bee, apple, socks, 'Bobby'- Mommy (still no M's), 'El-bo'- Elmo, hat, 'daw'-dog

30 words at 15 mos.

Favorite word at 17 mos.- NO

Favorite phrases at 18 mos.- "I did it.", "I see (insert object)", "See ya", "Oh NO"

"I love you!"- 5 days short of 18 mos.

Photo Challenge: Sparkle

2012-01-05T19:20:00.004-05:00

I have to say that the photo challenge over at Paper Mama wasn't easy this week and I've lost a little of my photographing mojo after being so busy this week at work. I looked through pictures, tried to take some and looked through more pictures. I wanted to have a different 'sparkle'. This is what I came up with.

Wordless Wednesday- A few pictures

2012-01-04T20:28:00.000-05:00

Today's WW almost got away from me. Here are a few pictures I wanted to share that Blogger rejected the other day. Let's see if it works this time. My 3 favorite pictures I took last week.

Toodee!

Tick tock

Bennett, 19 months

A Year here at We're In For It....

2012-01-03T21:33:00.001-05:00

Although it's not original anymore and it seems to be more of a norm, I still wanted to take a look back at my year and the significant events I blogged about, therefore being some of the more important days in our year. It was pretty fun to read through the blog and to remember things that seem like forever ago.

In 2010, instead of writing Gage monthly letters, I wrote him one every other month, at 14, 16, 18, 20, 22 months and of course for his 2nd birthday in November.

January brought Gage's 1st words caught on video and his 1st and hopefully last surgery for quite a while. At 14 months old, Gage got tubes put in his ears that to this day, he still has. Gage stood for the 1st time alone and therefore got his 1st pair of big boy shoes. Our area made National news because of the most awful commute EVER, we had more snow days, of course (you need to catch up 2012!) and dealt with our 2nd round of the stomach flu. Gage also knew around 25 words at 14 months old. We were still having the sippy cup battle, but had a breakthrough at the end of the month. It's funny that when going back and reading these posts, I mentioned that Gage would probably never be a big milk drinker. It's still true a year later. He's not milk's biggest fan.

Februrary consisted of another beach trip canceled, a funny conversation with one of my students and fun link up to Living Like the Kings. The HUGE news was that Gage started walking at 15 months! We finally made it to the beach and Gage had his 15 month appointment that I will never forget and got to visit the aquarium. We also found a really sweet park (one that we sadly have not been back to). And Gage showed us his muscles.

In March Gage had a bunch of 1sts, including his 1st handsome haircut....one of which he could use right now. He also moved up to the toddler room at daycare. We were so nervous when he moved up, we had no idea how much he/we would LOVE the teachers. I posted about a commerical that cracked me up and posted a flashback picture. Gage checked out the Victoria's Secret magazine, got a Power Wheels and was super sick....again. Nana and Grandiddy came to visit and we found an awesome Easter festival. We got to see a great movie (a rarity these days) and I got to see a peacock spread his feathers!

April brought an awesome Spring Break trip in Wilmington, NC. Ever since we've gotten back, I've been dying to return. We also took Gage to the circus for the 1st time. We celebrated Sawyer's birthday and Gage's 2nd Easter. I got my much sought after jogging stroller, which I still love. Gage said his 1st 2 word sentence at 17 months. I actually did a little yard work and Gage learned to count to 10!

May was a slow month on the blog because it was a busy month at work. Gage turned a whole year and a half old! There were many celebrations- baby showers, births and Mothers' Days. Gage had his 1st experience with a babysitter other than my parents. Gage said 'I love you' for the 1st time and went on a job interview. Gage had his 18 month appointment and he was still small. I started the Couch 2 5K running program that I have not yet completed 8 months later. We enjoyed a beautiful weekend at the beach with friends.

The year was only half over in June. But I was so excited to be getting out of school and getting to spend 10 weeks as a SAHM. Gage started Little Gym classes and I completed Week 3 and 4 of the C25K running program. Nana and Grandiddy came up and Luke and I got to enjoy a date night of the Melting Pot and Bridesmaids. We also started our search for our new car. Gage and I got to enjoy a perfect few days at the beach and I continued to study for my Praxis test that I failed by 3 points. I got to hang with 2 of my best buds and their families (our sons are all the same age). I didn't know it at the time, but it was the last time we would all work together.

I posted the most in July of course, because I had way more time without my job. Only missed 7 days all month. I failed the Couch 25K running program, just 2 months after I started. I took the dreaded Praxis test and FAILED. We bought our awesome new car and broke our 4th of July tradition. My BFF and old roomie and I began our Dawson's marathon (we are only on Season 2 still). We saw a few summer concerts and Gage turned 20 months old! We lost our babysitter battle and I ended my month having a playdate over at The Life of Rylie and Bryce Too..... Ha....seems like I failed at more than one thing this month. And most of this month's blogging revolved around me and not Gage.

August was the month of beach trips and some interesting ones to say the least. It was almost time to go back to school and end my summer with my little man. We celebrated one of Gage's good friends 2nd birthdays. Gage found a stuffed animal that he adored. Gage got another, cuter haircut. Luke and I celebrated our 4 year annivesary and I hosted another Carmex giveaway.

September is always a busy month for me and for the last 2 years I have taken a 'September Break' and not posted anything other than pictures, a letter to Gage and birthdays (which seem to be plentiful). However, reading through my September this year it sure does look like I had quite a thing or two to say. In September, Gage also turned 22 months old. I posted pictures of our semi-annual beach trip and our trip to Chesapeake.

October brought Halloween and all its fun. Gage had a great time this year dressing up in his homemade Mickey Mouse costume. The month off of blogging really took it out of me but I finally got our 19 month photo shoot pictures posted. We also attended Gage's Auntie Ann's wedding and Gage was the ring bearer. Gage's language exploded and he was talking in 8-10 word sentences. We took a trip to the pumpkin patch and I celebrated my 2 year blogiversary! Also one of my childhood friends got to bring a sweet baby girl, Malia home from Russia for adoption. It also snowed for the 1st and last time!

Holy Smokes! November was a big month for us and for my blog! In November, my sweet baby boy turned 2! His birthday party was a week after his actual birthday and I was so overwhelmed with having a 2 year old I completely forgot to ever post pictures of it. We traveled home to Chesapeake to be with family for Thanksgiving! Gage got his 1st peek at his train table (thanks to Grandiddy). My brother, Brian also came to visit and we surprised my Mom and Dad with an awesome dinner and Brian's presence. I hosted another Carmex giveaway and finished up the month starting A Glimpse series.

Finally, December came and went in a flash. I turned 31, we decorated our Christmas tree, Gage fell in love with Christmas lights and Grandma Sandi and Grandpa Steve came to visit. It never snowed:( and we went to see Elmo Makes Music. I finished up my Glimpse series and was proud of myself for blogging and photographing for 7 straight days. My blog finally got a makeover a few months in the making! Thanks again to Sheila! Gage had 2 Christmases and New Year's was pretty uneventful. Gage also had a blast at the Christmas parade. I also entered my 1st, but hopefully not my last photo challenge.

And there you have it ladies and gentlemen, 2010 in summary. My goodness, that took a long time! I've been working on this post for 3 days. It was fun to go and take a look back, but I had no idea it would take so long to link up. Next year I'll be doing a review in pictures or one event from each month. And I'm writing this now so I'll remember that! In any case, it's done and it's time to move on. I don't even remember what other posts are in my queue! Whew! Until next time.

Christmas 2011: Round 2

2012-01-02T13:01:00.000-05:00

*I have come to the realization if I wait on my computer to not be a piece of junk, I will be waiting for quite some time, or until I have the money to buy a new one. I have figured out how to change the image size on my camera (thanks to my For Dummies book) so hopefully I won't have the same problem in the future. However, if I want to move on with my blogging life and post other posts that are waiting in my queue, I'm unfortunately going to have to give you a pictureless post for now. When I figure out how to resize my pictures (does anyone know if you can do this in bulk?) then I'll be back in business. For now, you'll have to read, instead of look at my cute kid.*

Well the 2nd round of Christmas 2011 is over and we have lived to tell about it. We chose to leave Wednesday night after Gage's bedtime, which we have done before and will probably not do again. In any case, no matter when we leave the 1st night Gage isn't is in his own bed is always rough. After not enough sleep Wednesday night, Gage woke up to yet another Christmas. After breakfast, he ran in to tell Daddy 'it's Santa time' and thus we started. And Gage must've been a pretty good boy this year because Santa left him a whole SACK of presents at Nana and Grandiddy's house too! Gage had quite a Yo Gabba Gabba! Christmas. He got a nap mat for daycare, 2 Beanie Babies, a CD, and a singing toothbrush to name a few. He also got a super cute pair of Sesame Street rain boots, a soccer ball and a basketball hoop. He was very excited to open more presents and to roll in paper yet again. Gage also got a few more cute books to add to his library. Mommy and Daddy got hooked up too, as always. Luke got a book, movie, gift cards, music stuff and money. I got a North Face, a rain jacket, rain boots and some gift cards that are already burning a whole in my pocket. We had some nice family time along with Auntie and Doris and a nice dinner to round out the night. Gage of course continues to be a naughty 2 year old (more on that later) but nevertheless it was a nice night.

Friday morning we got together with a high school friend of mine and her 2 little men. It was great to see her again, it had been way too long and as you can see, her two sons are handsome! Gage had fun playing with new kids and new toys.

Saturday, Mommy and Daddy got to enjoy some shopping time and lunch to theirselves, thanks to Nana! We each got a few gift cards that we wanted to use and Nana had a blast hanging out with Gage in the 60 something weather on New Year's Eve! Crazy! You won't find me complaining, though. They also colored and painted, such a treat! Yesterday afternoon we got in another playdate with one of my high school BFF's and his little girl. Again, how awesome was a 65 degree day at the park at the end of December??

This morning we headed home from another fun weekend (this time, extended) with Nana and Grandiddy. Gage loves going to their house and playing in their leaves and Nana always has some kind of new book or toy. Even after all of the new Christmas gifts he got this weekend, he still asked to find 'more toys' several times. We came back today so that we would have one day to recoup from all that Christmas was before returning to work on Tuesday. It was fun, but it has now come to an end. Thanks Santa for everything you left at Nana's house. Sure beat what you left here! hah....

*Yes I realize, pretty lame w/o pictures. Oh well, I'm cutting my losses.

Like Always....

2012-01-01T22:06:00.003-05:00

My computer blows and I can't post any of my Christmas: Round 2 pictures as planned. My new camera's pictures are too big for my POS computer, therefore it shuts it down once every 10 minutes. Until then...

Happy New Year's Eve!

2011-12-31T09:59:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year's Eve! Please be safe whatever it is you decide to do tonight. Although I did buy Gage a New Year's horn and noise maker he will obviously be in bed long before the ball drops. Us on the other hand will be doing nothing exciting except hanging out with family on the couch. Happy 2012!

Also a big Congrats goes out to my college friend, Andrea who just welcomed her 1st baby into the world on Thursday morning. Welcome Alex! You made it in 2011 after all!

Elmo Makes Music!

2011-12-30T11:19:00.001-05:00

A few weeks back we took Gage to see Sesame Street Live: Elmo Makes Music. I was so excited to take him and he was very excited as well. At first I think he was just in awe of all of the characters and the loud music (it was pretty loud for a kid's show, I thought) but as soon as Bert came out doing the disco he was sold. He danced with the best of them. We had great seats and overall it wasn't that expensive. There was hardly anyone there, only about 2/3rds full. I was also very impressed with the pricing of the merchandise. You know, you go to the circus, etc. and everything is crazy expensive, but T-shirts were actually $15, what I would normally except to pay for Sesame Street merchandise. Overall, a good experience and Gage did really well....there were lots of younger kids there, but I think that he was the perfect age. Just wanted to post a few pictures to mark the milestone. Enjoy!

A captive audience

Bert doing the Disco

My personal favorite, Grundgetta, Oscar's trashy girlfriend

Favorite Picture of December

2011-12-29T11:15:00.005-05:00

Since I got my new fancy camera, (I know I'm sooo behind) I thought it would be fun to enter a couple of photo challenges while I play around. This week's photo challenge is over at The Paper Mama. Check it out, enter and Enjoy!

Oh and by the way, this obviously isn't my favorite picture because I think Gage looks super cute, but rather b/c it is 'him' at the moment. Messy, long hair, snotty nose and a Goldfish lover. Also I love that I caught him cramming in tons of Goldfish while looking my way.

Happy Birthday Finn!

2011-12-28T07:56:00.002-05:00

Casey again is another real life friend, so of course it makes me happy to wish Baby Finn a very Happy 2nd Birthday as well! Although Casey and I go way back to grade school, living half way across the country, unfortunately I've never met Finn. Nevertheless, he's so close in age to Gage that it's been fun to watch him grow up via her blog. Now head on over to Colby. Casey. Madison. CJ. Finn + One and wish Finn a wonderful day! Casey, you like how I just renamed your blog?!?

Chirstmas 2011

2011-12-27T20:42:00.001-05:00

After reading everyone else's posts (I must do this before I post, hence why it seems I don't get to it very often) on Christmas this year, so much is running through my mind of what I want to write about/share. So, I think I'll just start from the beginning and random thoughts will most likely just come from my fingers. And, by the way, this post has TONS of pictures.

Needless to say this was a very special Christmas for Gage, not only because it's the 1st one he remembers and was excited about, but also because his Grandma and Grandpa from Texas were able to come up and spend the long weekend with us.

For the whole month of December Gage was super excited about Christmas. Of course from the first moment we put up the tree Gage couldn't keep his little hands off of it. I mean, who can blame him....we have just about every Hallmark ornament on the Earth that sings and plays music and moves or talks, etc. Anyway, it definitely took a good few days and some 'talking tos' before Gage understood he couldn't just pull ornaments off the tree whenever he wanted. I also bought Gage the Little People Christmas CD, as mentioned before, and just about every day in December we listened to it in the car. He knows a few Christmas carols by heart. I tell you, this kid's memory is outstanding!

In any case, we spent the month talking about Santa Clause and what he would bring us and continuing a long family tradition from when I was a kid-driving around often to look at Christmas lights. Gage LOVED it....'Oh, look at that' was probably his favorite thing to say. Along with 'oh, I see Frosty snowman, I see Santa, I see reindeer, etc'. He definitely loved the lights as much as I did when I was a kid and asked to go often. It took us a while this year to go see Santa. Gage was sick and I was trying to avoid a runny nose Santa picture, but just last Monday, we finally made it. And just like we planned Gage wasn't scared at all and just wanted to chat Santa up and make his requests of 'drums' and 'choo choo trains'. Although he was too busy chatting with Santa to really care about getting his picture taken, at least he wasn't wailing like last year.

Christmas Eve was special this year since Grandma Sandi and Grandpa Steve were here. We were going to attempt church but after no nap Gage and I bowed out. We were going to go alone anyway since Daddy and Grandma and Grandpa were going to go to midnight mass. At any rate, church was not in Gage's 2011 Christmas agenda. I ended up going later alone after putting out all of the presents. But before that Gage, as grumpy as he was, and I made Santa cookies and left them and carrots for the reindeer.

Gage wanted to try some reindeer food

Christmas morning was so special this year. Gage loved every minute of it and absolutely loved opening gifts. Funny thing is I've seen a kid or 2 just tear into gifts one by one not even looking at each one, but Gage was the exact opposite- he wanted to play with every gift and could care less about the next one. He didn't seem to notice he had many more to go. His favorite was his 'motorcycle' (AKA tricycle), his drums and his guitar, of course. However the gifts of all gifts was from Grandma Sandi and Grandpa Steve- Gage's very own cuckoo clock!

I'd say Gage made out pretty well and we haven't even had Round 2 at Nana and Grandiddy's house. As I mentioned Gage loved opening the presents, but he also loved rolling around in the paper, much like the leaves at Grandiddy's house (see Christmas card).

The spread

Gage immediately loved his 'motorcycle'

....that was until he saw his guitar

.....and his drums!

Gage was a champ at unwrapping gifts

Happy boy!

This was his favorite part

And this was the aftermath

Gage jammin' out

Our Christmas 2011 family photo

Gage, Grandma Sandi and Grandpa Steve

We rounded out the weekend with the Grandparents by going to the Air and Space Museum. Gage must have run for an hour and a half straight just saying, 'oh, look at the huge airplane' over and over. I don't think he ever.stopped.once.

Awesome picture

But definitely my favorite (I know, I say that all the time)

'Da airplane is HUGE'

very appropriate

Luke and I forewent gifts for each other this year to get A gift for each other- our new kitchen table. Although it was a little anticlimactic and not fun to 'open', it's what we needed and it's definitely a welcome change. ha...my, how Christmas changes when you're an adult.

Merry Christmas to Us!

My favorite part of Christmas this year however, was a carry over from my birthday. I got the.best.pictures.EVER, well for me anyway of Christmas this year with my brand new camera! I don't even know how to work it yet so I can't imagine when I actually start learning about it AND even editing. Currently I'm just happy pointing and clicking. My favorite part of my new camera, which I imagine is lots of peoples' when they go from a digital to a DSLR, is that I can click, click, click and eventually get some good looking pictures. My old camera was sooo slow. Well, I imagine I missed a few things about our Christmas 2011, but there will be more to come. I'm just excited about my good quality pictures this year! More posts to come on Elmo Makes Music! and Round 2 of Christmas 2011!

Merry Christmas Eve!

2011-12-24T09:18:00.000-05:00

To all my Internet friends...

Happy 4th Birthday Carson!

2011-12-22T07:52:00.002-05:00

I am so happy to wish Carson a very Happy Birthday today! I actually got to visit Carson in the hospital the night after he was born- crazy that it was 4 years ago! His Mom, Bonnie and I have been friends for years, it's too bad we don't live closer or our boys would get to hang out more often. Please head over to Three Men and a Lady and wish Carson a Happy 4th Birthday!

Happy Birthday Jillian!

2011-12-21T07:48:00.002-05:00

I have been reading Karen at Home for quite some time now, probably around the time that Jillian was a few months old. Karen is an impressive half stay at home Mom, half accountant that still manages to keep her house decorated to the nines and share good recipes, while updating us on her little girl, Jillian who turns 2 today! Please head over to wish Jillian a happy birthday and hear about Karen's new addition in 2012.

And I'm back.....hopefully

2011-12-20T20:19:00.001-05:00

I'd be a broken record if I said I was the most awful blogger around. I'd be a broken record if I said I was tired and unmotivated. I would be a broken record to say I don't know how people find the time to update their blog between work, families and especially Christmas. But that's how I'm feeling this week and apparently for the last few.

Can you believe I was ever dedicated enough to do a Glimpse series? I can't! At least I made it though and didn't puss out half way through. However, I think it took all the blogging out of me for the month of December. It was crazy. I wanted to blog about my 31st birthday and our day long expedition of Christmas shopping, but then I got sick and I got really sick.....I hardly ever miss work, but I was out 2.5 days last week. Since then I've just been blah, busy at work and actually reading a really good book that I would rather read than blog. (More about that later.) We went to see Elmo Makes Music Sunday evening(another entry) and I got a new camera for my birthday that I need to learn how to hook up to my computer so I can actually check out all the new pictures I've taken. However, if I sit down to figure that out, I won't be blogging either. Plus my 11 day break is actually non-existent when you factor in guests and visiting.

So....as one of my favorite Darius Rucker songs says 'I got nothing'....

However, I did want to give a shout out to Sheila at Blog Designs by Sheila. Isn't my 1st ever professional blog template awesome?? She was so great to work with and super helpful since I know basically nothing. She took my 389 requests and kept tweaking until it was perfect. She is also VERY reasonably priced. Check her out if you are in need! Thanks again, Sheila!

Happy Birthday Kerri!

2011-12-15T20:28:00.000-05:00

Head on over to Chronicles of a Carolina Mama to wish Kerri a very Happy Birthday! She's the Mommy to the cutest little boy, Camden and always has great stories to share. Camden and Gage are one week apart so it's been fun to read her blog and follow along with her life of being a SAHM and her insights into having a now 'Terrible Two'. Kerri, Happy Birthday, hope you have a great day!

Hopefully I'll return to my regular blogging before too long.

Wordless Wedensday: Worst Blogger Ever!

2011-12-14T20:24:00.000-05:00

Wordless Wednesday- Last Year This Time

2011-12-07T18:51:00.000-05:00

Enter my Giveaway!

2011-12-04T06:45:00.000-05:00

Guys, I have another Carmex giveaway! Please hurry to enter. I have to have the name drawn by tomorrow morning.

A Glimpse- Day 7

2011-12-03T22:08:00.074-05:00

Here it is folks, the last of the Glimpse series. I hope you all have enjoyed. I'm not sure I'll ever be able to write again without telling you every detail and writing in stream of consciousness. Ah well....

This morning my was my morning to sleep in, hurrah! Gage woke up at 5am when I went in to tell him it was still the middle of the night and to go back to sleep. He laid back down and we heard from him again at about 10 'til. Luke got him up and brought him downstairs to entertain him while I got a few more hours of beauty sleep. However, this particular morning they were very loud and I didn't really get all that much more sleep. I did lay in bed; however, until 8am. I got up to come downstairs and within 10 minutes Luke was upstairs showering so we could get ready for the Christmas parade this morning in town. Gage and I put another ornament on his advent tree and got ourselves dressed.

(Oh no, no picture of me today! What was I thinking?) I was just so excited for Gage to go to his 1st parade.

I always hear about the HUGE crowd that is so we decided to park at a friend's house that's about a 5 min. walk from downtown instead of trying to brave the crowds. We had a stroller and were able to walk over without a problem. We also got really lucky because it was around 40 this morning, as opposed to 20 or so that it's been in the past at the beginning of Dec. We got there early because of said crowd but found somewhere close to sit to see the parade. Apparently we missed the memo that everyone else got about bringing lawn chairs....oh well, don't ask me why we didn't think about it, but even so.

Regardless after about a half hour wait and entertaining Gage by running around an empty lot, the parade began!

My attempt at a picture of us

Watching intently

Frosty!

The hats were given out, after I put it on my head, he said 'Gage wear it' and he didn't take it off for the next hour.

Another attempt....notice I didn't cut myself out;)

It was a slow start but Gage was definitely interested. He got to see plenty of fire trucks, horses, cool cars, big trucks, even some tractors. His favorite were the high school marching band and the Washington Redskins Marching Band was also a part of the parade. According to veterans, the parade usually lasts about 2 hours, which I'm guessing we'll be able to do next year, however, this year Gage lasted about 2 hours total. So we left about a half hour before the parade ended and didn't get to see "Santey Claus". However, Gage just saw him last night and we'll go again in the coming weeks so it wasn't a big deal. Gage did get to see Frosty and a few 'reindeer' so he was satisfied.

We went to Noodles and Co. for lunch because we didn't know what to feed him at home....(oh no, more fast food) and he passed out on the way home. I'm sorry I didn't get a picture. I was pretty bad about that today.

By 1pm we were home and Gage was alseep. I spent the next 2 hours making a grocery list and going to the grocery store. One of my least favorite chores EVER.

And yes, I only have a family of 3.

I put the groceries away and it was already 330pm. Gage woke from his nap just in time to see him for another few minutes before I had to leave for my work Christmas dinner. Gage was pretty sleepy and we cuddled a bit when he got up (something we rarely get to do anymore.)

After he got more awake, he and Daddy ventured off to Walmart while I headed out to Carrabbas for a nice dinner with co-workers. I LOVE Carrabbas and it was nice to just chill out with a nice dinner and drink and chat with good company.

I enjoyed myself so much I didn't even think about taking pictures of my food or dessert. Oh well...that's what eating out is about.

It's 8pm and I got home just in time for the Va Tech/Clemson game....yay! Just kidding, I could care less but now I'm listening to my husband talk to himself, yell at the TV and pace around the room. I would take a picture but my camera just died since I put batteries in it 2 days ago. I guess that's where documenting your every move for a week will really get you. Only another week 'til I get this baby anyway!

I'll spend the next hour or two checking out and finalizing our Christmas cards. Since most of you won't get one, I'll give you a little preview. I'll shower and head to bed early tonight since I'll likely be up before 6am. Goodnight, I hope you have enjoyed my series!

A Glimpse- Day 6

2011-12-02T22:01:00.137-05:00

TGIF! I love Fridays! I didn't use to live for them as much as I do now, but this year's been a rough one. On Fridays when I only teach 2 classes, I tend to get up a little later, I feel like I deserve an extra 10 mins. of sleep and I don't care if we're a little late since I have more than one planning period in my day.

510am- Alarm goes off, I get dressed. Today in a staff shirt and I pull my hair back. I rarely, if ever do my hair on a Friday, unless I'm going out after school, etc.

Today I'm in a staff shirt and because it's so cold in our office wear a hoodie over it. Not real professional for my meeting after school today, but oh well.
By the time I get downstairs today it's almost time to get Gage up. I make his milk and get his breakfast together, a waffle and yogurt.

540am- Gage starts to talk and Daddy gets him up. I go upstairs to pick out his clothes, because Luke dresses him in some crazy stuff sometime.

Gage gets to put a new ornament on the advent tree this morning and of course wants to put more than one.....whatever floats his boat.

He is a little whiny this morning and gets mad because we won't let him stare at the computer. He reads and plays a bit.

Daddy leaves and I change Gage because he has already peed again. I start to get us ready to leave and have to run upstairs to get a coat/gloves since it's all of 27 degrees. I get back downstairs and realize that Gage has pooped. It's already after 620 so we're definitely going to be late. I run out to the car to start it so it can warm up. I change him and then try to conquer the coat. I swear I'll never buy my kid the kind of coat he has now again. It's nice because it's double layer which means thick and has a zip out fleece but it takes forever to get his arms through! The sleeve always split apart and it takes more than a few tugs to get his arms all the way through, not too mention the sleeves are too long so that doesn't help either. That takes a good 5 mins. Then he dilly dallys as we go down the stairs and then after putting him in the car, I still have to come back in to get diapers to take to school. It's cold and even I wear a scarf and hat today.

We get to school 15 mins. late today and after dropping Gage off I still have to go back to the car to get the diapers I brought. By this time it's already 7am and I have no chance of getting to school on time, so....I decide to go to CFA for breakfast.

I didn't pack a breakfast and will be late anyway, so I figure, what the hell? Wow, I bet you guys think I eat so well!!? I'm actually pretty ashamed of all of our eating this week. Oh well, I'm going to the grocery in the morning so next week we'll be good to go.

I get to work at 720am, just as the bell rings. I get a few things done this morning with my planning and chat with some coworkers about nothing work related. It's 830am before I know it and I have to go to my Physics class to give a test. Usual test days would mean I'd get work done, but not with these kids....they are AWFUL, talk during the test, are disrespectful, have their cell phones out, etc. I really cannot stand this class, can you tell?

By my planning period I'm already spent and get a whole lot of nothing done during 4th. I had big plans, but instead I slack off. I tend not to work hard on Fridays....it's a bad habit of mine. I look up sweatshirts on our athletic site I want to buy, BS with coworkers, and plan a party we're having next week. Yes, I'm the designated party planner. I honestly spend a good hour doing NOTHING. I chat with the guy next to me about his past relationships.....I talk with others on their lunches and find other ways to waste my time. All while not eating lunch. My dept. chair is going out later and says she'll get me something....yes, that's right, fast food twice in a day (is Panera considered fast food?)

1230-2pm- My last class of the day. We have the same test but they are good, because they listen and take good notes. They don't complain and don't act a fool. I get some work done while they test. It's 2pm and unfortunately like most Fridays I don't get to leave in 20 mins.

Once again after school today I have an IEP meeting. This time I'm the designee and it's not one of my kids. The IEP goes ok, the case manager is 10 minutes late and it sucks to have to entertain a parent when one of your teachers isn't ready. It's 335pm and I'm just leaving school. I'm going to get Gage and I'm angry it's so late and he's been at school since 645am. At least Luke is getting home early today too. I arrive to pick him up and he's in a different shirt.....got paint all over the one I put on him this morning. Awesome, already ruined 2-3 brand new shirts this year at school. It takes a miracle to get his blanket, tupperware, lovey, coat, water bottle and child out the door. Of course he has to stop to look at the Christmas tree.

We get home at 4pm and play for a few minutes. Daddy is home 5 mins. later. Gage finds his drum he hasn't played with in a while and wants to play with blocks.

We read a book and I ask him what he wants for dinner because we need to feed him early tonight in order to go to our neighborhood celebration and to see Santa. He gets mad because he thinks I want to stop reading RIGHT NOW. I explain he has to eat early tonight to go see Santa and he runs towards the kitchen table yelling "peanut butter jelly". He eats the whole sandwich, half a banana and half a pouch.

It's 6pm tonight and the neighborhood is having their annual Holiday gathering, complete with Santa Claus, carriage rides, hot cocoa and apple cider. Last year was the 1st night of the annual event and it was absolutely awesome as the snow fell from the sky right as it got dark. I remember how cold it was last year, this year, not so much. This was also where Gage met Santa for the 1st time last year- a picture that would grace our Christmas cards for 2010. Let's just say Gage wasn't a big fan last year. However, this year we've talked alot about Santa and he's excited to go meet him. I'm not sure how it'll end up but we pile in the car about a quarter to 6pm. Last year we walked right in, got our picture with Santa and enjoyed the snow and music. But oh my, when we get there this year the line is OUT OF THIS WORLD. They are supposed to have a seperate line for babies under 2. We were going to lie and say Gage would be 2 next week; however, when we get there they say 2 and under. The place is a mess and it's so disorganized. There are tons of people and they have a good turnout but we have to wait forever to see Santa. Gage manages to hang in there and we look at lights and decorations on the way.

He is so excited to see Santa once we get in there and is overwhelmed with the lit reindeer, Christmas tree and other decorations.

However, he walks right up to Santa and sits on his lap.....thinking nothing of it. It's too bad we didn't get a picture of him looking at us, but needless to say he was still checking out the decorations.

We were in and out in a minute without a good picture and it seemed anticlimactic to me, but....Gage did see Santa and did not cry, so maybe we'll actually get a good picture at the mall this year.

We play outside for a few minutes, run around and check out more decorations.

We look for Gage's friend, Logan and he's just now getting in the door, which means he has at least another half hour wait. We leave around 650pm to head home, Gage is asking for his Nuk and Lovey. This is what we looked like last year at this event.

We get home, get changed for bed, read one book and I help him brush his teeth, he's in bed by a quarter after 7pm.

Can you tell how teeny Gage is from this picture?

Luke and I order....wait. for. it......wings for dinner! Just reading this post makes me a little sick to my stomach, I swear I don't eat like this every week. We pick up Gage's disaster while we wait for dinner. The wings come way quicker than they ever have in the past. We eat and watch football. I shower and start looking on Snapfish for our Christmas cards for this year. So many choices. I am tired but am happy to know I get to sleep in in the morning. Goodnight all!

A Glimpse- Day 5

2011-12-01T22:54:00.003-05:00

MOST BORING THURSDAY EVER. I can assure you guys, I would say stop reading now, but I'll keep writing to hold up my end of the bargain. I wake up somewhat rested this morning- Gage is sleeping through the night again since being sick. Morning routine before Gage awakes is always the same.

Holy crap though- today is the 1st day of December. Crazy! My birthday is in 10 days. I hear Gage start to talk around 530am and Luke gets him up at 545am. Today is pajama day, so he changes him out of one pair into another....he chose to wear his monster jammies today.

Outfit complete with his Chiquita banana sticker

Today was cold enough for footie pajamas, but then how would the kids play outside?

At 530am, I'm getting my and Gage's breakfast together again for one of my busy days. No packing lunch today, I have half a sandwich from yesterday. Gage has cereal and a banana for breakfast today. Today I will teach straight through 2pm and I have another meeting, this time with Brain Injury Services at 200pm today. I'm not sure how long it will last, but my guess is I'll be drained when it's over and just leave to pick up Gage. Gage plays for a few this morning and gets to put the 1st ornament on the advent tree.

He didn't understand the concept of just one

Gage doesn't have a good morning, he is whining over everything, doesn't want to put his shoes on, doesn't want to put his coat on, etc. He gets to choose a stuffed animal to take with him to school today and he keeps changing his mind. He eventually picks Elmo. He runs from me and wants me to chase him as we're trying to get out of the house. I can't seem to get my crap together this morning and it takes us 10 mins. to leave.

I have to run back in to get the charger for my phone.

We definitely get to school late today and other kids are already done with their breakfast. Some parents brought their kids in footie pajamas and the teachers are annoyed. Gage sits down to eat his cereal and banana and is happy. I leave daycare late, but somehow get to work on time. There has been so much less traffic this week for some reason.

700-830am- I try to get some last minute planning done but don't seem to be successful. I make copies for my team teacher and discuss a student with my department chair. It's freezing in our building and I wear my scarf for an hour. I then put my jacket on with my scarf, because we are about to have a fire drill. I catch formerly mentioned student before fire drill and read her the riot act.

840-10am- More proofs and practice with congruent triangles. Zero happens that is of note. It's not as cold upstairs.

10-1030am- Scarf down half of sandwich from yesterday. Put hoodie and scarf back on because it's FREEZING in my office.

1040-1220pm- I review with my guys for their Geometry test. They complete a writing prompt based on this picture.

1230-200pm- More geometry practice....more proofs. More preparing for one of the hardest Geometry tests we give all year. I leave class for a minute to take incomplete quizzes and a failure notice to a kid.

2-3pm- Meeting with Brain Injury Services on one of my students. Kind of interesting, kind of a reality check.

It's 3pm and I'm leaving my meeting now to go pick up Gage. I'll only get to spend 2 hours with him tonight because I have my fabulous textbook adoption meeting tonight. Are you reminding me not to do this again? I go pick up Gage and of course he hasn't eaten lunch again and he has snot coming out of his nose. We see Sawyer's Mom on the way out and plan to have a playdate next Tuesday. We get home around 415pm- I think the earliest all week. Gage asks to watch Yo Gabba Gabba! I let him because we haven't watched TV since Sunday.

While he watches TV I get things together for my textbook meeting and change clothes- to my comfy after school outfit.

After TV Gage and I get to play a little bit. He wants to color. I love the Color Wonder markers.

At 525pm, Luke walks in the door and I walk out. These nights suck, I barely get to see my kid or my husband. I pick up a committee member who lives in my 'hood. For the next 3 hours, our group hashes out which book we want to put up for recommendation to the school board. We listen to publishers present their books and try to convince us to choose theirs. The committee has been interesting and insightful; however, I still won't miss it and won't do it again.

At 830pm I walk in the door and eat cold tacos and yogurt. I read email and a few blogs and shower. I'm tired tonight and want to go to bed early, although it's already 10pm. At least the Eagles are losing and it's Friday tomorrow. AND I told you this was the most boring day EVER.

Enter my giveaway!

A Glimpse- Day 4

2011-11-30T22:53:00.139-05:00

And it's Wednesday already! No Wordless Wednesday here, but instead Day 4 of my Glimpse series. 5am- alarm, get dressed, do hair, makeup. You guys know the deal.

Today I hear Gage up at 515am calling for Daddy. We ignore him for a few minutes. He then calls for me. I go in and found out he woke because he pooped. After being changed he asks for 'grasshoppers on' and Nuk and Lovie and says he 'wants to go night-night'. It's only 10 mins 'til we have to get him up anyway so I leave the projector on and the door open. He says 'turn out light, Mommy' and 'close door Mommy, I go night night'. Of course that doesn't last too long. Luke gets him up while I get breakfast together for Gage and I, pour him a cup of milk. Also I remember to grab a snack for him today since he has his 2 year appointment and will miss snack at school.

He comes down and is grumpy again because he woke up early. He asks to watch 'Grandiddy's clock' (yes, we watch clocks on You Tube) and he is happy for a few minutes.

He always wants more and we have to have a limit. He gets to watch a few this morning so I can cut his nails. He then finds the clock I just bought at Target and proceeds to move the kitchen chairs so he can stare at it.

We play for a few minutes as usual and we're on our way. Have to get ready a few minutes early today so we can get his hat and coat on.

618am, we leave the house to attempt to get to daycare and school on time. We're doing pretty good this week at staying on schedule. And today is an 'easy' day at school. I drop Gage off, talk to his old teachers for a minute. He wants to sit by himself again today, he is happily eating his pancakes. Since I'm not in a particular rush today getting to school to get my planning done, I treat myself to Starbucks. However, I have the same reaction that I do every time I go (about 3 times a month).....'holy crap, $5 for coffee'!

I still get to school by 7am and am settled ready to do some work. I get a few things done that are overdue, but slack off a little and chit chat about non school related items.

830-1000- my most unfavorite class. Today is typical and the kids who don't like to work don't work. We are doing a fun lab today, but they are still unmotivated. It takes a lot of explaining but once we get in to it most understand- those that care anyway.

1000-1220pm- my glorious planning period with no meetings today. I have to review an IEP though and it takes me much of the 2 hours. The teacher that I'm fixing the IEP for goes to buy me lunch though, so I can't complain. No school lunch today. It's Subway for me, baby!

1230-200pm- Uneventful class, sorry guys, I got nothing today! It's a slow Wednesday around these parts.
However, I do schedule the behavior meeting I've been trying to set up and write a kid up for skipping.

2-230pm- Last minute changes to the IEP that I've found, attempt to check in with AP about our meeting Tues. No luck, lots of people in his office.

230pm- leave school to get Gage for appointment. I'm hoping there aren't shots today, but I can't remember. And by golly, do I have 548 questions for the doctor. I swear I feel like having a 2 year old is so different than a baby. It's a whole new set of rules.

250pm- get to daycare to get Gage and have to hurry to change him and get his coat on. The teachers remind me of PJ day tomorrow and report that he ate lunch. He wants me to read him a book but we don't have time. I promise him one at the dr's office.

316pm- We arrive with only a few minutes to spare. I forget my list at home even after printing it out at work for a 2nd time. I try to make one while we wait. Gage loves to play with the Legos at the office anyway and we only wait a few minutes.

The nurse takes him back to measure and weigh him. He is 33 ins. as we suspected, but weighs less than we thought. The last time they weighed him at the office he had all his clothes on. He only weighs 22lbs, 13oz. (3rd %ile). He reads books while the doctor and I chat and is overall pretty good. I have tons of questions for the doctor and take up way too much of her time. I think she was done talking to me after a few minutes. Learned a few interesting things. Psychologists say you shouldn't take a Nuk from a 2 year old and wait until he's closer to 3. Too much going on at this stage in life. We had planned to do it before now, but he'd been sick so we put it off. Sounded like she was suggesting to wait some more time before we make our move. She wasn't happy about the way we've been feeding our child and wants him to eat what we do and not to fix him something different. Easier said than done since we don't eat dinner at a decent hour. She says it's not about eating with us but just eating what we do and not offering him other things. I find it hard to believe that kids never get 'special' meals just for them, but we will at least try to hold off on doing it every night now that we know. Other than that it seems he's pretty much where he should be AND we don't go back until 3! That's crazy, what will I do without the dr's. advice?? He then had one shot and didn't even cry! He flinched, we sang B-I-N-G-O and that was that! Gage picked out a Nemo sticker and we were on our way.

Pre-shot, reading books

Post-shot, OUCH!

5pm- Home late again today! Grr.....I read my email while Gage plays and we wait for Daddy to get home with the taco kit for dinner.

Daddy's home by 540pm with a few groceries, but.....wait for it.....NO TACO KIT. He forgot! What?? It's 545pm and no dinner for Gage. Daddy makes him a grilled cheese, he eats that, grapes, a pouch and chocolate pudding. Pretty good for eating lunch today too! We got another package tonight- new clothes for Gage for Christmas. Children's Place always has decent deals online on Black Friday.
Gage has a few minutes to play before bath since it's already later than usual. We pick out the holiday/winter book he gets to bring to school tomorrow and we read a few books before bath. Gage takes a bath and plays with his letters. He recently has come to love laying on his stomach in the bath, tonight he gulps up water and is hacking for a few minutes. No longer than it took him to stop coughing, he lays down again....and does the.exact.same.thing.

We dry off and he asks me to sing "Rudolph" and the "Snowman" song. I got him a new CD of kid Christmas songs last week.

Those and 'Jingle Bells' are his favorite. I still don't know all the words to Frosty although I've heard it a dozen times this last week. We read 'The Foot Book' before bed and Daddy takes him up to brush his teeth and get tucked in.

Without a taco kit, who knows what's for dinner. I still have to plan and finish reviewing this stupid textbook. I hope to have time to review my new blog design as well. The designer got back to me Monday and I've hardly had time to look at it to give her feedback. I spend another 45 mins. reviewing the textbook that I already know we're not picking because it sucks. Luke has made himself a PB&J and I've given up on the possibility of having a real dinner this week. I eat some chicken nuggets from the freezer and some applesauce. I spend another 45 mins. planning for class tomorrow. I forgot to bring my papers home to grade- oh joy, that's what I'll be doing 1st period tomorrow.

Luke decides to make brownies- yummy! Haven't had them in a while. I try to check out my new blog design and make a few tweaks; however, apparently after you view it once (I looked very quickly last night) you can't view it again without another invitation! What?? I'm not one who would view it once anyway....grrr...maybe tomorrow. Yummmm.....I smell brownies!

I shower, read some blogs and am about ready to turn in. But I must end my day with a brownie and ice cream! Goodnight! Also, don't forget to enter my giveaway!

Now, I must leave you with a funny picture I snapped today to show you guys how I roll!

ha! and YES this was BEFORE I picked up Gage!

A Glimpse- Day 3

2011-11-29T22:35:00.071-05:00

It's only the 2nd day and you guys know the morning drill....or what is supposed to be anyway. 5am- alarm clock, get dressed, do hair and makeup, make breakfast AND lunch today. Tuesdays are so much harder than Monday, this morning I really wanted to close my eyes and go back to sleep. Oh yes, but this morning at 507am, just 5 mins. after rolling out of bed I hear Gage up. I turn on the monitor to see him sitting up in bed. Part of me thinks if I ignore him he'll lay back down for another 45 mins. Part of me thinks to go in there and tell him to lay back down but then I think, what if he wants to get up and read books....I don't really want him up at 5am. I lay low for a few minutes and then he summons me...."Mommy, Mommy- grasshopper on!" He has a projector on his ceiling that he likes to look at, a cow scene, a fish scene and the jungle scene.....not sure which one has a 'grasshopper'?? but he is satisfied with the jungle theme.

hah...look at my awesome mess of a closet behind me!

I have enough time to come downstairs, get his breakfast togther- peaches and a bar, my breakfast AND lunch together. Good thing I made the chicken last night. At 530am, before Luke comes downstairs I hear him get Gage up, or rather out of bed, since he's already up, and get him dressed. Gage is grumpy because he got up early and spends much of his morning rolling around whining and pitching mini-fits.

One of the fits.

In between fits.

We do get out of the house on time though, once again, a miracle for a Tuesday, when I have to pack lunch, and Gage gets up early. It's warm outside this morning but supposed to rain all day.

We're at Gage's school by 635am and he's eating happily with his friends when I pull out of the lot at 645am. I debate whether to go get Sbux this morning since I've left my mug at home AGAIN, even after I thought about it at least 3 times this morning. But then I remember it's my long day with only a few minutes of planning and I better get to school. I pull in around 7am again- my office is cold and I don't even have a jacket because it was so warm this morning.

Today is a busy day at work. It's the day I have planning only from 720-820am and teach the rest of the day. I struggle to get everything I need to do done in this hour. I have a parent to call to try to set up a tour of the alternative school, I have someone from Central Office calling to attend the meeting of said parent and I have a behavior plan to write for one of my 19 year old students, whose son happens to be older than Gage.....awesome.

830-10am- Pretty uneventful Geometry class. However, the kids are really struggling- congruent triangles and proofs are hard- hard to teach and hard to learn. I try to grade papers while I copy notes for the kids who need them.

10am is lunch time. Gotta love the school's schedule. I chow down in 20 mins. to get back upstairs to my next class. Again, thank God for leftovers. Also I stole one of Gage's Snak Paks;).

1030-1230- My remedial Geometry class where we study yet more proofs. I loved proofs in high school, then again, I loved math and didn't have a Learning Disability in it.

1230-200pm- The kids are cranky, it's the end of the day and they have Geometry/proofs coming out of their ears. I have to step out of class in a minute to make a phone call to the alternative school so I can get a parent in for a tour.

The person from Central Office is supposed to call me back but of course she has a meeting at 1pm and I have class 'til 2pm and have to leave at 230pm.

After school today I leave straightaway again- this time to get a haircut and some highlights. I've been toying with getting my hair really cut, but I also want to donate it again, so I think I'll wait. To me there is something anti-climactic about getting highlights and not getting your hair cut. Even so, I do it.....however, I decide I actually don't want highlights but instead want to go back to my original color, which seems so dark these days. I meant to take before and after photos, but I forgot You'll have to settle for just one 'after' shot.

My hair appointment is over around 415pm and I rush to get Gage- I still feel bad he has to be at daycare 9 hours plus some days. Oh but when we get home, it's magical. Angela, our housekeeper, has been here today and I sure do love coming home to a clean house and sparkly bathrooms. My house was getting pretty gross, not to mention. She missed a few places on the steps, but nevertheless it's cleaner than it was this morning and my shower and bathrooms are SPARKLIN'.

We get home and it's already 5pm...crazy! We never get home this late. Gage hasn't eaten all day since he refused both lunch and afternoon snack so I throw fish sticks in the oven.
There are 2 packages waiting for us when we get home! One is Gage's new booster seat- I can finally get rid of the high chair!

And a fabric advent calendar I ordered a while back. I was pretty annoyed it was the 29th and it hadn't arrived yet. Just in time!

Looks pitiful now, I know, but you get to decorate the tree everyday!

Gage's new booster seat is a travel one as well, with storage for food, pretty cool contraption if you ask me and just the perfect size for Gage to eat with us at kitchen table.

Gage devours his fish sticks and yogurt because he's so hungry from not eating since 930am. He gets some chocolate cookie because he ate his meal. Daddy and Gage play while I clean up from his dinner and I sit down for a total of 10 mins.

I read a few blogs while Daddy gives Gage a bath, knowing I have a crapload to do once he goes to bed. We read 2 books, brush our teeth and head to bed. It's 7pm and I'm preheating the oven to eat my leftover sub from 2 nights ago. Just remembered I need to finalize the questions for the pediatrician tomorrow for Gage's 2 year appointment.

My house is clean so I don't have to worry about that tonight. For the next hour I pour over the final textbook of our adoption committee and decide that it sucks.

We already have one picked out but of course have to go through the motions of the rest. We meet the pubishers Thursday night when they get to convince us to buy their book. I pretend to evaluate the book, write down some semi-intelligent comments and watch MD play basketball. Remind me how stupid I am the next time I decide that reviewing textbooks sounds like a good idea, as long as there's money involved. It's really not that much money and I have been grumbling about it since Sept. I can.not. wait. until it's all done next week. Whatever will I do with my time.

Tonight Luke is out playing an open mic. Something he hasn't done in quite some time. I am relaxing in a clean house glad that tomorrow is my 'easy' day. I shower, do some more laundry and settle down with my Parenting magazine. Might try reading some too.....or ahhh.....sleeping! Goodnight all!

*Tomorrow I'll try to get some more interesting photos, I thought I did pretty well yesterday, but today sucked! Bleck!

A Glimpse- Day 2

2011-11-28T22:03:00.003-05:00

As always, my alarm went off at 5am this morning (502am to be exact) and as I rolled out of bed I thought, 'Great, it's Monday and Damn, it's gonna be a busy week'. My morning routine is the same every morning: get out of bed, get dressed (I take showers at night), do face and attempt to do hair. This last attempt usually is successful once or twice a week. However, today 22 mins. after I got out of bed, I was dressed and my hair was fixed! Record!

My hair really is fixed, that's just a stray piece...ha!

I go downstairs to make Gage's milk and get his/my breakfast together before I get him out of bed. I figured out long ago the more I get ready before he gets up, the easier things will go....especially these days since he's gotten the memo he's a Terrible Two Year Old. This morning, I packed Gage cereal and yogurt and myself a breakfast bar and applesauce. I know- a healthy meal! Trust me, I wish I had time for something better.

At 535am, Luke comes down the stairs to ask what he can help with. He's right on time every morning and 90% is done.:) Unless of course he oversleeps and isn't even ready himself until I get Gage up. At 550am I get Gage out of bed, this morning he's sleepy since he talked for an hour last night before going to sleep and Luke gets him dressed before we come downstairs. He gets his milk and plays for a few minutes while I finalize what needs to get out of the house and since it's Monday, that means a blanket for him and usually, the journal (not needed today b/c last week was a short week).

We try to leave every morning at 618am, it's the perfect time to get out of the house and to get to daycare 1-2 mins. after they open. Lately though, Gage has fit pitched in the morning and it's a struggle to even get his coat on. This morning we are good to go and end up leaving right on time. Today went really well for a Monday. We show up to daycare 7 mins. after we leave the house and I sit him down to eat breakfast with his friends. Today he chooses to sit by himself (the 1st time ever) and he is happily eating his cereal when I leave.

This morning I pull into the parking lot at 7am on the dot. No traffic for some reason. Typically I spend a good few minutes sitting in the bus traffic leading into the parking lot. Today is my easy day where I only teach 2 classes instead of 3. But during my LONG planning period today I have an IEP meeting with a translator and ESOL teacher, which will make it twice as long. Of course because I'm a teacher I can't disclose specifics about my day due to confidentiality reasons so I'll speak in general terms. I get into school and realize my phone is dead and I've left the only phone charger at home....great! No phone today- hope daycare doesn't need me.

715-830am-This is my planning period and this morning I get everything done that I need to. Copies for my meeting, a few things straightened up. hah....did I say straightened up? Look at my desk- I have a bit of a problem with organization.

This is the top.

This is underneath!

And before you judge, no, I do not teach kids in this room, I don't have a classroom so we're all in an office together. I look in my purse for my coffee mug and realize I left that at home too. Always something. That means I get to drink coffee out of the Dixie cup size cups the school has.

830-10am- My most dreaded class of the week. Nothing of note today, but my gosh are those kids lazy. And I don't use that term lightly, I am not one who assumes every kid who doesn't do work is lazy, but I have never had kids quite like I do this year. Lazy and disrespectful!

1015am- IEP meeting- Student and parents don't show. What should've been 1hr+ meeting just turned into 15 mins. Good for my planning period, but not good because they didn't show. It's so frustrating after we called Mom and asked her twice and she said she'd be there. The kid has an attendance problem anyway, so this wasn't too promising.

By 1045am I'm free to do other work. However, somehow I manage to do so many things that I work through lunch and am having a convo with my AP when I realize I have 10 mins. 'til my next block. I grab a handful of pretzels and a Coke. You'd think in a 2 hr and 10 min planning period I'd have time to eat....but grr...I hate to stop working to eat.

1230pm-2pm- Another one of my least favorite classes, but at least it's the end of the day. This class is GOLDEN compared to my 2nd period. It's not so bad, I get a little work done while they work as well. And did I mention, email the girl who is going to do my new blog design! Finally!

I am busy this week and have appointments EVERY day after school. Today is Gage's tube check for his ear tubes he got last January. This usually takes all of 8 mins. and I get the 'looks good, see you in 4 months' speech. Kind of annoying that I have to leave work before I get everything done to take him for such a short check up. However, who can complain when this is the time and temperature when they get out of work.

It's the end of November people AND we live in VA!

That's right ladies and gents, my contract hours are over at 220pm everyday. Can't complain about that. But explains why I get up so early

So I speak too soon. Usually we're in and out of the ENT- today we had to wait 20 mins. before we were even taken back. Thank God Gage behaved himself and we got through it with no meltdowns.

Gage loves this toy at this doctor's office, he looks so big for it now!

Also thank God they had books to read, Mommy forgot to bring anything in with her, because the appointments are usually so fast. We read a strange Eric Carle book, a Berenstein Bears book, Wocket in my Pocket and a Dora book. They finally called us back.

That's when the appointment proceeded as normal, the NP looked at his ears for 4 mins. and sent us on our way to come back in March when they will probably have already fallen out. Gage got his scarecrow sticker and we were on our way. That's when something noteworthy happened. Gage walked out holding my hand and walked the entire length of the parking lot (probably 100 yards or so) by himself and didn't ask ONE time to 'get up'. It was crazy. See, Gage can't even walk out his classroom and out the door of day care without asking me at least 3 times and then most of the time has a meltdown when I won't pick him up. I was actually pretty proud of him! Since we went to the dr. and waited AND he was good AND walked, we went to CFA to get a special treat. Ice cream and a brownie!

He also got to play in the play area which he never gets to do because there are so many big kids trying to run him over. There was noone there and he really enjoyed it.

Following CFA we headed home to hopefully have enough time to get a walk in before dinner, but it gets dark SO early here now that it just didn't happen. So we played some more until Daddy got home.

As soon as Daddy walked in (early tonight!) I headed out to Toys R Us. We had a return AND I had a $13 coupon that expired today and damn if I'm not my mother's daughter, I will.not.let. a coupon expire...not one for that much anyway! So I returned a gift Gage got for his birthday and picked up a Cars drum pad from Santa Claus. I got home just in time to read Gage a few bedtime stories before putting him down.

7pm- Gage is in bed and Luke is out the door (I know, it's like a revolving door around here). Which means I'm by myself for dinner and the chicken in the fridge is not getting any younger so I throw something together real quick with ingredients I have. Nothing special- spicy garlic lime chicken, rice and brocoli and cheese. I sit down to eat and start to realize it's already 745pm and I have SO much to do tonight before bed.

I still have to pick up the house, plan for tomorrow and review a text book for Thursday. I kinda detest picking up for the cleaning lady to come, then again, it's better than actually doing the cleaning. I always feel like a chicken with my head cut off every other Monday night. I have to pick up everything I can so she can clean as well as she can and usually I end up making piles places, which is not good....but it will do the trick for tonight. One of these days I'm going to REALLY clean so that she can REALLY clean.

I shower, do more laundry and start to think about plans for tomorrow....at 930pm....awesome! I'm tired and I want to go to bed and I didn't get any of the textbook reviewed. I have 2 more nights, now of sessions hours long to get through the book before Thursday. It's fine though, I'll have more time tomorrow night when I'm not running around trying to get things picked up. The Saints are beating the Giants! Yay! Signing off for me. Good night!

Now if you're still with me, don't forget to enter my giveaway!

A Glimpse- Day 1

2011-11-27T22:08:00.067-05:00

Now since all of you know what a fabulous blogger I have been lately, I should be crazy to even try this. But, alas... Back in August, one of my favorite bloggers Living Like the Kings did a Glimpse series that did a play by play of her days for 7 days straight. I thought it was pretty cool and by gosh, my life is so cool (hah, sarcasm there!) that I thought I would try it too. In any case, I really really hope not to disappoint and to be able to keep up. It's a busy week, so again, I'm CRAZY, but nevertheless, here is Day 1.

This morning was my turn to get up (Luke and I trade off on the weekends getting up w/ Gage.) After 2 years it hasn't gotten any easier and we definitely aren't 'those' people who say that they're so used to getting up at 5am during the week that they do the same on weekends. At any rate, lately Gage has been dying to get up at 530am; however, we usually give him books to read, bring him in our bed, etc. until 6am. We are trying to teach him that you can't get out of bed until 6am. (I know what you're thinking....good luck). He lasted until 550am today so lucky for him he only had to entertain himself for a few minutes before I was up and at 'em.

As I do every morning I get up with him, Gage and I go downstairs and I make him a bottle of milk to hold him over until breakfast. (As I just wrote this, I thought, OMG, do most people do this with a 2 year old?) Anyway, Gage usually doesn't eat breakfast until 645am or 715am (weekends) so in my mind it makes sense. We mostly sit around and play in the morning, while I try not to fall asleep and Gage almost always asks to watch Yo Gabba Gabba.

This morning it was Mickey Mouse he requested and then proceeded to have a meltdown because Mickey Mouse doesn't come on until 7am and it was only 647am. This morning we're out of coffee (oh, what fun) so I fix green tea instead.

I eat Boo Berry cereal while Gage plays. Then I realize that last night I couldn't find the tie that I wanted Gage to wear today for his pictures and that somehow I'll have to search the house for it while entertaining a 2 year old. This is where Mickey comes into play. By 7am, Gage is watching Mickey and I'm searching his room for the tie....lucky for me I didn't look real well last night and it only took me minutes.

Watching MM's Clubhouse

On typical Sunday mornings we hang out and play, read books, etc. until Daddy gets out of bed around 8am. However, today because we have Gage's 2 year old pictures at 915am so by 745am I'm trying to rouse Luke to get up and get ready so we can get there on time.

745am, I get Luke out of bed and leave Gage to hang out in his while I get ready. He plays with his Tag books and listens to music. In the 15 mins. that it takes for Luke to get in and out of the shower and me to get ready, Gage has undressed himself.....the 1st time he's ever done this (aside from 15 mins. ago while waiting for Mickey Mouse).

There's a 1st for everything!

Luke takes Gage downstairs while I finish getting ready and by 830am we are ready to roll, snacks and change of clothes in hand. We head off for pictures- a place that has come highly recommended and pray that because we're there so early we won't have to wait.

905am we arrive at said portrait place that apparently opens at 9am and we have a 910am appointment. Funny enough there are already several families there as well as families looking at pictures they have already taken. I get worried that this will turn out like every other portrait session, but luckily Gage amuses himself for a few minutes playing with Legos while we wait. Fast forward 30 mins. and they really got the best pictures that we've ever gotten in a place like that. However, the one thing that really gets to me and the reason they do it I'm sure, is that you HAVE to order the pictures right then and there while your child has a meltdown b/c they are sick of sitting around AND so you say, sure, give me whatever you want. Gage had his meltdown right on cue so we ordered only a few pictures (that's all we wanted anyway) and paid more than we wanted. Ah well....there's his 2 year old pictures. I have to say they really did a good job, what do you think?

This is my favorite!

My big boy!

This is 'the look'.

What a handsome boy!

They proceeded to tell us it would be another half hour for the pictures to be printed, so we took Gage outside to play and run around. We checked out a 'car show' in the parking lot and were done in a half hour and headed home. Gage fussed the whole way home and proceeded to act like a 2 year old. I figured he wouldn't eat when he got home, but instead would take a nap.....he surprised me and ate a damn good lunch.

Naptime for Gage means getting things done for Mommy. This is always such a struggle for me- I have anywhere from 90-120 mins. of time that I need to get things done around the house, but I also need to have a few mins. to sit down and do what I want to do. Today I try to get a combo of both in. I do some laundry, pick up a little, blog a little and since I have a lazy 2 year old ;) I write Gage's Thank You notes for him. Not even 2 hours later, he's up and we're off again.

I had forgotten we made plans this afternoon. One of our friends who now lives in Australia is in town visiting and they're having a cook out for him. He's just announced he's having a baby and you can't complain about the weather. Upper 60's the last weekend of November. For 2 hours, Gage played in the dirt and leaves and admired the cats, chickens and horses. I ate one hot dog, but other than that chased him around. We got no family pictures as I had hoped.

My kid looks so small next to this horse

Gage and Mommy on the farm

530pm we're home and I'm already thinking about getting things together for tomorrow. Supposed to be another beautiful day. For now, I'll catch the 2nd half of the 'Skins game. As I watch the game, Gage puts on his normal routine for Daddy and refuses to eat what we've made him. Gage wins and Daddy makes him a peanut butter and jelly. This is what dinner looks like.

Disgusting

Luke gives Gage a bath while I lay on the floor and pretend to watch the Skins game and really fall asleep for 10 mins. Gage and I read books for 20 mins. and it's off to bed for him. I am so tired and need some caffeine but I have a lot to do before tomorrow. I fold clothes and put another load on. I sit down, grab a Dr. Pepper and catch the end of the game.

720pm- 45 mins. after Gage was put to bed, he's still talking to himself. I've checked on him twice and he's just lying there talking. But the Redskins have won! Hallelujah!

730am- My baby has just stopped talking....it's gonna be a long Monday. We have no food in the house so I'll eat a meatball sub from Tony's Pizza and veg out. So much to do for the week, but I think I'll settle for a shower, more football and a book. Day 1 done!

Good night!

Carmex Winter Review and Giveaway: (Healing Lotion and Healing Cream)

2011-11-27T14:08:00.000-05:00

Once again, I am back with another great Carmex giveaway! This time I was very excited to get to review their new skin care line! As you know, I've always been a fan of Carmex's little yellow jar, their lip balms and recently their 'click sticks' from this summer. So when I got the newest package in the mail and it contained Carmex Healing Lotion and Carmex Healing Cream I was super excited. The last few winters my hands have been a mess, so I was hoping this would be just the thing I needed.

In addition to the 2 tubes above, I also received 2 small purse size tubes (about an oz. each) of both the Lotion and the Cream. These are perfect, because my husband is always asking if I have any lotion with me and on these cold winter mornings coming up, I can always have some at my fingertips when I get to work.

The Carmex Healing Lotion comes in a 5.5oz tube (and now a pump!) and retails for around $5.99. It contains Aloe and Vitamin E and if you use it for a few days in a row, you can really start to feel the difference! It's a thinner consistency lotion, but that's ok because Carmex has the Healing Cream as well. It has a fairly pleasant scent, but that's probably my least favorite part about the product. It is fresh and 'clean' smelling but reminds me a little too much of baby lotion. If you're not as sensitive about the smell of your lotion as me, you'll love it because it's not too strong but yet isn't odorless. Although neither are particularly greasy, the Lotion is more so than the Cream.

The Carmex Healing Cream is definitely my favorite from the two. It comes in a 4oz. tube (also for aroud $5.99) and contains 9 healing ingredients. It's definitely not as greasy as some creams and I don't feel the need to wipe off my palms after applying it. Also, this tube will probably last you a while, but a little really does go a long way when using this. AND this is exactly what I was looking for when it came to my dry, cracked knuckles.

Overall, I was pretty pleased with these products and to have some new lotions/creams to try out this Winter. I am excited also that the lotion comes in a pump still (for some reason I prefer that) and it would certainly come in handy on my desk at school.

Now it's your turn to try Carmex's new line of beauty products: their skin care line! You can either head on over to Walgreens, CVS or Walmart or you can enter to win one of these great packages!

One of my lucky readers will win one full size tube of each the Carmex Healing Lotion and the Carmex Healing Cream, as well as one purse/pocket size tube of each! (MSRP ~$14) They come packaged together in a cute little yellow bag and would make a great stocking stuffer!

There are 3 ways to enter my giveaway! Just leave one comment for each entry.

1) Leave me a comment telling me your favorite lotion in the Winter time.

2) Follow me with GFC.

3) Leave a comment on any other post.

This giveaway will end in one week on Sunday, December 4th. I will contact the winner by the 6th and you will have 48 hours to respond! Good luck and thanks so much for entering!

Also, I'm excited to report that Carmex has a few new flavors of their Carmex Moisture Plus lip balms that I reviewed last year this time, plus they have a jar of healing ointment that I'd love to check out too!

*Although Carmex did contact me and send me these products to review, the above thoughts and opinions are all my own!

A first...

2011-11-26T09:47:00.002-05:00

While we were visiting my parents, we also discovered that Gage had not ever engaged in something that most kids his age probably have. Or rather most kids his age that live in 'tree-ful' neighborhoods. One of my favorite things about the neighborhood that I grew up in when I was a kid was the size of our lots and the amount of trees we had. If you ask my husband, I still to this day have an affection for houses that have big lots and tons of trees, they just feel homey to me. I suppose it's what I grew up knowing. In any case, my sweet little Gage didn't know what he was missing. He had never before November 12th, played in a pile of leaves! What a great childhood memory and something all kids shoud get to do! He thought it was the cat's meow! I took so many pictures because it was so much fun to watch him play and do something new. I also wanted to make sure I got some cool 'action' shots. Enjoy!

Throwing leaves is AWESOME

My favorite action shot

Not sure why he felt the need to eat the leaves

Loving every minute

Trying to make a new pile

Leaf Angel

So cute, if not for the zipper pull!

Home Sweet Home

2011-11-25T09:39:00.001-05:00

Whenever we visit my parents house, a place I still call 'home' I am always reminiscent of my childhood and think about what it would be like to raise Gage where I grew up. I know change is always good and things don't have to be exactly the way they were when I was a kid, but I also miss the area and imagine living here again some day. Funny that I say these things, because when I teach kids whose parents went to the high school too, I think, 'Geez, this town ate these people.' Pretty ironic being that I feel exactly the same way.

In any case, a few weekends ago when we were in town to surprise my parents for their anniversary we took Gage to a park my brother and I frequented when we were kids. I can remember long long ago going to the park with my parents and feeding the ducks, having picnic lunches and riding a train called the 'Smokey Pokey'. For the last couple of years it had been rumored that 'Pokey Smokey' was reopening (it closed 6 years ago, due to safety concerns). By the time I heard it was reopening, Gage was born and I thought it would be pretty cool for him to get to ride the train like I did when I was a kid. For one reason or another the train never reopened until last weekend, when we happend to be in town. It was a perfect time and Gage was at the perfect age that he would be very excited about riding a train! It was a little cold and windy but we had to take advantage so Luke, my brother and I packed up and bundled up and headed down to the park to ride the 'Smokey Pokey II' and play on the playground.

Gage checking out his railroad token

Although it wasn't exactly as I had remembered it, the park still has some charm and Gage enjoyed his ride. It's too bad that it wasn't a little warmer.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-24T07:31:00.000-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving one and all! I know I have been a horrible blogger these days and I still have so much to post about our trip home a few weeks back and now here we are 2 weeks later and are back home again to spend Thanksgiving with my family.

Although I would rather this not be the obligatory 'thankful for' post, I do think it's so important to slow down and remember all that we have and those things in our life that we are truly thankful for and are important to us. I haven't even had time to blog lately, so I definitel haven't taken some time out to reflect about all of the good things in my life. In saying that, here are the things that I am thankful for, in no particular order.

Family. I'd be nowhere without them and the fact that I still get to come 'home' and celebrate with over 20 people each Thanksgiving the way I did when I was a kid is awesome. Not something everyone can say. Not only extended family, but of course I'm thankful for the awesome husband and Dad that Luke is and the unbelievable blessing that Gage is in our life.

My job. Although some days I want to scream and have work coming out of my ears, I will always be thankful for having a job and one that I love. I am thankful that I was given the gift to teach and make a difference in someone's life.

Friends. I have so many great friends that I can't even keep in touch with on a regular basis, but I am oh so lucky that when we do catch up it's like we've never lost touch. I have such great friends from high school, college and some I've made in the last 10 years. Sometimes it's just crazy to think that I've known some of them for over 18 years. Also nice to know we have several friends that we could call on any time and for any reason at all.

Neighbors. This year we have been lucky enough to have some amazing neighbors move in. They are wonderful to us and Gage and we are looking forward to being close with them for a long time.

House. Although sometimes it seems small and seems to get even smaller as Gage gets bigger, the housing market still sucks and we are lucky that we have somewhere to call home that is comfortable and in a good neighborhood.

Health/Wealth. We are thankful that all 3 of us and our extended family are in good health. Gage is smart and thriving and Luke and I can't complain. And although we're not wealthy, again, we are comfortable and can make ends meet and not everyone can say that.

On a not as serious note, our housekeeper! I am messy and it is so hard for me to want to come home and clean after a long day at work. I just want to spend time with Luke and Gage and have a little time to myself too. Although we still can't keep our house clean for a whole 2 weeks, it helps so much to have a baseline and to keep our bathrooms clean!

Although the above things seem like what everyone is thankful for and kind of generic, I think it's good to at least acknowledge them and to think about how/why they are important in our lives. I encourage you to take a little time to reflect today and be thankful for all that you have. Now LET'S EAT!

P.S. I'm sad I didn't do my 30 days of Thanks this year!:(

Wordless Wednesday- Better Later Than Never....

2011-11-23T19:31:00.000-05:00

Gage's 2nd birthday cake

Happy Birthday to Camden, Happy Birthday to You!

2011-11-21T07:52:00.001-05:00

Aside from being a horrible blogger and feeling busier than I ever have in my life, we're hanging in there and there should be some good posts coming soon. However, today I want to wish Camden over at Chronicles of a Carolina Mama Happy Birthday. I swear that Gage and Cam will meet in person one day and be the best of friends! For now, they're Internet buddies. Kerri and I can't believe our little men are 2! I'm sure she'll be much better about getting timely birthday posts up than me, but what can I say? It is what it is. Please visit CCM and wish him a very Happy Day! I can't wait to hear all about the festivities!

Happy 2nd Birthday, Gage Paxton!

2011-11-20T21:19:00.002-05:00

Dearest Gage,

I will try not to state the obvious…time flies. My sweet baby boy is no longer that! You are a full on toddler now and are becoming quite the little man. Your language and vocabulary has exploded in the last 2 months. You were already ahead of the game to an extent, but now you are speaking in full sentences and we can actually hold a conversation. I’m not sure there’s anything you can’t repeat and you understand 100% of what we say. You say things like, ‘I forgot’ and ‘right dare’, that crack us up. You sing like nobody’s business and you know probably 12-15 songs from beginning to end. You speak in 5-10 word sentences almost constantly. You have acquired a small stutter that we will discuss with the doctor in a few weeks.

You recently moved up to the ‘big boy’ room at daycare, which I’m still a little nervous about. You seem to be adjusting ok though and like your teachers so far. You are the 2nd youngest kid in your class, yet you are still the biggest talker, of course. You will really miss Ms. Crystal and Ms. Yvette though…they were so good to you.

Your absolute favorite things these days are any kind of music, playing with your choo-choo trains and reading books. You love to play with Sawyer and the girls next door, Alyssa and Jessica. Every day on the way home from school, you talk about your choo-choo trains constantly. You amuse yourself by reading books (you know almost all of their titles), drumming with your drumsticks and playing blocks and cars with Mommy and Daddy. You are smitten with clocks….not quite sure why, though you love “Granddiddy’s clock” and have been mesmerized with it since last Christmas. You constantly ask to see “Granddiddy’s clock” on the computer “one more time” and to watch videos of yourself. Your favorite TV show is still Yo Gabba Gabba and not much else (aside from Mickey Mouse) can hold your attention for more than a few minutes. I guess I can’t complain about that though, I don’t want to rot your brain too much with nonsense.

Another recent part of your 2nd year was your trip to Texas last month to be in Aunt Annie’s wedding. You were quite handsome and walked all the way down the aisle by yourself.

You have become quite the 2 year old lately, whining and fake crying if you don’t get your way. A couple of mornings this week you have thrown quite some fits and Mommy just walks away and lets you have your space. You also are quite the master manipulator when it comes to getting up in the middle of the night and trying to get Mommy and Daddy to do favors for you. “Fishies on, soothy bear off, water, please, etc.” You are still a little peanut and wear mostly 18 month clothes. Some of your pants that we bought you for this Fall are still too big and you’re currently rotating about 4 pairs. You weigh in at a little over 24lbs and are 33ins tall. You don’t have your 2 year appt. until a few weeks from now so I’m awaiting all the advice they’ll give us for potty training and dealing with a 2 year old. You still like to eat NO VEGETABLES WHATSOEVER. The only way we can get you to eat them is through baby food pouches (gross!). They offer them to you every single day at school, but nothing…. Your favorites are of course, grilled cheese, PB&J, grapes and oranges. You have branched out a little and eat some chicken at school and hamburger. I know it shouldn’t be a fight, but sometimes it’s so frustrating that you don’t eat a variety. That’s about all for the milestones.

Now I’ll move on to bragging about my sweet baby boy. You are so so smart, Gage. I know that’s all what Mommies say, but your memory is outstanding. You will hear a book or song once and can finish it the next time you hear it. You make connections very easily, the other day I said we needed to go to the book store and you said ‘I buy Yo Gabba Gabba book’ before we even went inside. (We haven’t been to the bookstore in ages.) You do love the library and aside from Mommy forgetting to take your books back, we try to go there often as well. You know all of your letters, numbers and colors and are working on counting to 20. You amaze me every day with new phrases and your adaptability. Daddy and I will continue to thank God for bringing you in our lives. And although you’re 2 years old now, you’ll always be Mommy’s baby. I am sure like always I have left something out, but it will have to do for now. Your next letter will come in May when you’re a big 2 and a half year old! I love you my sweets….to the moon and back.

Some favorite phrases at this age—“I like it”….which really means I don’t like it, ”’Scuse me”, “toots, PU”, “that clock plays music, right?” (every clock we see all.day.long), “oh no, what happened?”

Mommy

November 14, 2009

November 14, 2010

November 14, 2011

Of course....

2011-11-14T21:08:00.002-05:00

my laptop is on the fritz again, so I got nothing for you today. Not even pictures of my sweet baby boy born 2 years ago today.

Happy 2nd Birthday, my sweet Gage!

More to come later in the week....

A letter is in the works, but this one's gonna take time, can you believe I'm writing to a 2 year old?

What We've Been Up To...

2011-11-13T22:04:00.000-05:00

I'm a horrible, horrible blogger that's for sure. I'm like a broken record now, I seem to say this every week. I haven't posted since last weekend, but I have a teensy bit of an excuse this time. See, this past week, my brother from California came into town.....however, it was a surprise for my parents, so of course, I couldn't blog about it. So the last week around here was busy, busy.

Last Monday, we had a play date with Sawyer....no pictures, of course! Why in heaven would I ever take pictures of Gage and Sawyer since that's my goal EVERY time we get together?

Tuesday after work, I went to pick my brother up from the Metro and we got to spend all week together. It was really nice for Gage to get to spend some time with his Uncle B and us to spend some quality time together when there's not 28 other people there like at holidays, etc. For months, Brian and I tried to figure out what to plan for my parent's 40th anniversary and we finally figured out that what they would like most is for all of us to be together. Since Brian lives in CA, this rarely happens and most often happens during Holidays when we get together with extended family as well.

Because I had off work on Friday, we all piled in the Pilot and headed down Thursday afternoon to attempt to surprise my parents for their 40th! I think we succeeded, I don't think they had any idea! We dropped my brother off down the street and so he didn't even come in with us, if they had suspected anything, they would've been disappointed. A few minutes later, he rang the bell and walked on in! I think they were very surprised! The biggest surprise though was probably the super nice dinner that we had planned for them as well. My dear husband, Luke stayed home with Gage so the 4 of us could have a nice dinner out without worrying about a toddler. It was sooooo nice! The food was delicious and since my brother knew the head chef, we got hooked up with extra samplers and appetizers. I took no pictures because, one, I didn't think about it and two, I think that's kinda weird, but trust me when I say everything was very nice! We even got them a nice cake brought in from a bakery (I don't know how people who blog about dinners get by with that, maybe Iphones?) Anyway, it was really one of the best dinners I've had in a long time.

In any case, in addition to surprising my parents and having a nice dinner out, we celebrated Gage's 2nd birthday this weekend! Can you believe it? Tomorrow, my sweet little baby will be 2! OMG! That's an entirely different post in itself. But in any case, Nana got him a Mickey Mouse cake and along with my brother, my Auntie and cousin Lee came over to celebrate, too. We were so lucky to be able to all be together for Gage's birthday. Next week, Nana and Grandiddy can't make it to Gage's birthday party:(

Uncle B and Gage playing the 'pee-no'

The cake Nana had made for Gage (after it was cut)

Enjoying the cake

Gage opening Auntie's present

Gage checking out one of his gifts

Yay! for puzzles

Taking a break from opening presents to pick lint from his toes! (no joke)

Gage and cousin, Lee

Gage's new jammies from Nana

Gage and his Uncle B

My sweet boy!

We did a few other fun things this weekend that I'll save for another post. Until then, let me off the hook a little, it's hard to blog about something that is a secret, plus having quality time with my brother who I only get to see once a year is too good to pass up.

Our Week...

2011-11-05T20:25:00.000-04:00

Ok, so I promised I'd be back Tuesday for an update about our weekend; however, now we're on to another one. Where does the time go? Here's what we've been up to.

Last weekend my parents came to visit 1) b/c they haven't seen Gage in over a month and 2) so Luke and I could enjoy ourselves at a friend's wedding. Other than the weather (the very 1st time I have ever seen snow in October in my life) it was a nice night. Meanwhile, Grandiddy spent the ENTIRE day putting together Gage's early 2nd birthday present---a train table! Gage was sooo thrilled on Sunday morning and proudly announces every afternoon on the way home from school.....'I play choo-choo trains'. Here is his new passion.

Monday night, of course was Halloween and Gage got to dress up at school in the afternoon even before trick-or-treating. After getting him home, feeding him and giving him a bath because we knew it would be too late when we got home, I think he was actually ready for bed. BUT, we instead made him dress back up as Mickey Mouse and after a meltdown, headed out to trick or treat. If we hadn't had a friend coming over, I probably would've bagged the whole thing, however, as soon as he got outside and saw the neighbors all dressed up, he was ready to go.

Trick or treating at school

Sawyer, the giraffe and Mickey Mouse checking out the fish

Mickey Mouse and a cupcake

Ready for trick or treating

Alyssa (10), Gage and Jessica (7)

Unfortunately this is the only picture I got of Logan, the blue monster

Gage's 2 favorite girls

A neighbor's pumpkin

Gage doing his thing

We are so blessed to have such great neighbors, Gage absolutely adores them!

The rest of the week has been a blur full of doing school work, going to meetings and meeting old friends for dinner. Gage is still a little sicky and his cough doesn't seem to have improved so much. I had a conference today at Gage's school b/c he'll be moving up to the big 2 year old room on his birthday....which, did I mention is 10 days away? OMG! I feel like I have so much to do before then. Gotta buy all the icing for his birthday cake, etc. At least we don't have to prepare the house for a birthday party, too!

Tomorrow is a baby shower for an old friend and Sunday is shopping with a new friend! In between, I need to get Gage fitted for new shoes and prepare him for his 1st trip to the dentist on Tuesday....not sure how that one's going to go.

I feel like I had so much to talk about.....now, as usual, I got nothing!

PS. This would've been posted last night if Blogger was accepting pictures!

I AM....

2011-11-03T21:57:00.002-04:00

AN AWFUL BLOGGER.....THIS WEEK HAS BEEN SOOO BUSY.

Happy Halloween!!

2011-10-31T19:53:00.000-04:00

Happy Halloween, you guys! I hope you have a wonderful night and that your kiddies' costumes are a success! I'll be back tomorrow to share with you our jam packed weekend. Until then, you can enjoy my little one all dressed up for Halloween, as his favorite, the one and only Mickey Mouse! And yes, I made the costume....I didn't like any of the pre made ones....I think it turned out pretty good. Just disappointed we didn't get the gloves on him:(

Too bad you can't see his bouncy tail in this one.

Our 1st Jack-o-Lantern!

Happy Birthday Kylie!

2011-10-30T08:47:00.000-04:00

I want to wish a very Happy 3rd Birthday to Kylie Marie over at Our Favorite Miracles. I have been reading her Mom's blog for quite some time and have enjoyed following. Kylie just recently got a baby sister, Piper and I think Katie has been busy busy with the two little ones while her husband is deployed. Katie's girls are gorgeous and I love to see all the pictures she posts. Head on over, take a peek and wish Kylie a Happy 3rd!

Happy 2 year Blogiversary to Me!

2011-10-29T09:46:00.000-04:00

Two years ago today, I started my blog in anticipation of my little man's arrival. Now 370 posts and 180 followers later, I'm pretty satisfied with what I have created. Sure, I'd like to advertise and have a few more followers, but with working and being a Mommy full time I'm content with the content....ha. I have met more than a few cool people that are now my Mommy blogger friends and have gained many new insights into motherhood and life. It's a work in progress, but something I'm going to enjoy one day looking back on it.

To celebrate, I'd like to give my blog a facelift. I've always done it myself, with the help of a few Internet friends here and there, but I think this month, I'm going to pay someone to do the whole shebang. I just have to figure out what kind of theme I want, etc. If you know of any good and affordable blog designers or any good websites to see samples, let me know. Until then, Happy 2 years to We're In For It!

Nick......You're Slacking On Me

2011-10-27T21:44:00.000-04:00

I have always been a huge fan of Nicholas Sparks. I have read every single one of his books as they came out-skipping Message in a Bottle (because the movie sucked so bad) until last year, when I was craving a good romance novel. It didn't disappoint and it even made me want to watch the movie again. In any case, I'm not a good reader, nor am I an intelligent reader. Call me lazy, but I don't want anything that makes me think or learn, I just want to read about some love story/family story, etc. that is just heartwarming and true to life. I'm a slow reader and it's only for fun, so if I want to read my cheesy novels, I can.

I have enjoyed every last one of Nicholas' Sparks book until the last two. You can read my review about Safe Haven here. I have even preordered the last few, just to get my hands on them quickly because I couldn't wait to read them. And they are the only books I can read in less than 2 weeks a pop. Although I wasn't a big fan of Safe Haven, I still couldn't wait to get the new one.

Nicholas Sparks' latest book The Best of Me is a story of two high school sweethearts that have since gone their seperate ways who become reunited. Sounded like my kind of story and at times I couldn't put it down. However, once again toward the end of the book, much like Safe Haven it became unrealistic and too coincidental. Although not as bad as Safe Haven, I still didn't buy what he was selling. See, for me, the book has to conclude well. I don't care what leads up to it, if the ending sucks, the whole thing sucked. In fact, I once read a book by Anita Shreve that I wasn't sure how I felt about it until the very last page and then I wanted to read it again, I loved it so much. And I digress......bottom line, The Best of Me isn't a great book and am getting antsy for a new one by Sparks that I'll really enjoy. Can you help me out, Nick? Can you somehow find it in you to write a book like The Guardian or The Choice again?

Being that I'm hard to please, there are really only a few authors that I enjoy anyway. If you don't like to read to think and just like to read to relax, check out Anita Shreve (above), Jodi Picoult and for a small town country feel, Dorothy Garlock.

Wordless Wednesday- Auntie Ann's wedding

2011-10-26T09:13:00.000-04:00

Looking like a handsome young man

Gage (23 mos.) and cousin, Ianna (7)

Sweet boy

Cousin Madison (15), Gage and Ianna

Slow dancing

Gage and Great Uncle Jan

Gage and his Auntie Ann

Gage and Grandma Sandi

My favorite!

The beautiful bride

Happy Anniversary!

2011-10-23T21:16:00.002-04:00

Although I'm not at home and can't post any good pictures, I do want to take a quick moment to give a shout out to my parents who have been married for 40 years today! Wow! I can't even imagine! Happy Anniversary! Love you guys! Perhaps we have a special treat coming up in the future for you ;) ;)

Home tomorrow, thank God.

Happy Birthday Jacob!

2011-10-22T16:46:00.001-04:00

Although today we're celebrating a wedding in Austin, I had to pause a moment to wish Jacob over at Our Family of Four a very Happy 3rd Birthday today. I have been reading his Mom's blog for quite a while now and it's definitely something to check out. Not only Jamie share all of the happenings of her kids' lives, but she also shows us her crafty side, as well as her cooking side. You never know what you're going to find...pictures, recipes, crafts, etc. She also dabbles in web design so her blog always looks AWESOME! Head on over, check out her the blog and wish Jacob a Happy Birthday!

Leaving on a Jet Plane...

2011-10-20T06:46:00.000-04:00

In just a few short hours, we will be embarking on our 1st flight w/ a toddler. Sounds like loads of fun, if you ask me? See, I'm not a big fan of flying anyway, traveling stresses me out and on top of that, traveling with an almost 2 year old during his nap time, on 2 different flights, half way across the country really stresses me out. I'm trying to think the best and cross my fingers for an uneventful flight and a fun trip with family. Luke's sister is getting married and it will be nice to see everyone, since we haven't seen them in 18 months. But I have to admit, that what I'm really looking forward to is getting home....safely. What can I say, I'm kind of a homebody. Wish us luck, I'm sure I'll have some good stories to share.

Wordless Wednesday- Fall 2011

2011-10-19T07:02:00.002-04:00

Gage and his buddy, Logan

Pumpkin Patch w/ the Brosius'

Pumpkins!

Gage and Mommy- Oct. 2011

Toddler Talk.....

2011-10-18T20:48:00.001-04:00

According to most I've read, it seems that by age 3, 50% of your toddler's speech should be understandable to strangers. I am sure that even parents who have kids with advanced vocabularies are still a little skewed when asked to make this judgement. In our case, Gage seems to have quite an advanced vocabulary for his age and we get comments often about how much/well he speaks; however, I have realized recently that I probably understand WAY more of what he says then most others. Not that that's not often the case, but in 'mommy' ears, 90% of what he says I understand. Gage has actually begun stuttering lately and it's mostly when he strings 6 or more words together which makes sense. I think his little brain is just thinking so hard of how to put the words together and his mouth is already running. It has become a little more severe, but I do think it's natural. In any case, I want to play a litte game. Luke got about a 10 word sentence (no stuttering) on video the other night. So let's see if you guys can tell what my little man is talking about! Comment on your guesses!

Happy Birthday T and C!

2011-10-15T16:42:00.002-04:00

Shortly after I started my blog when I began to look for other Mommy bloggers, one of my real life friends pointed me towards her sister-in-law's blog about her 2 super cute twins. They are just a month older than Gage so it's been fun to follow them through the blog to see what they are up to and what Gage might/might not be able to do in another month. I can't believe they are 2 and I'm sure Mandy can't either! Head on over to Twice Blessed to wish Tyler and Caroline a very Happy 2nd birthday!

So Happy, So Busy, So Tired....

2011-10-14T23:19:00.000-04:00

I am so so happy for a friend of mine and her husband who FINALLY after MONTHS of trying are bringing home the sweet 2 year old girl they adopted from Russia tommorrow. It has been a long time coming and Malia has no clue how WONDERFUL her life will be because of her new Mommy and Daddy.

I am so so busy this weekend, getting ready for our trip to TX, preparing for traveling as well as preparing to be gone 3 days from work and meetings.

I am so so sleepy....it's been a long day and I have a long weekend in store for me. Thankfully, I can relax tomorrow night and get to go see Zac Brown Band with a good friend. Hope the weather will be nice. Good night.

Sorry....

2011-10-13T09:51:00.002-04:00

my cropping was AWFUL on yesterday's Wordless Wednesday post. Ah...it is what it is. Today is more of busyness, then a playdate this afternoon w/ Sawyer. I'll actually try and get some pictures this time......then more of the same. I'll attempt to post something good this weekend. BUT I did get the new Nicholas Sparks book this weekend AND I'm going to see Zac Brown Band! Woo hoo!

Wordless Wednesday- 19 month photo shoot

2011-10-12T09:25:00.000-04:00

Courtesy of Georgia Nelson

I am boring myself...

2011-10-11T20:19:00.001-04:00

That's right, I can't even stand to read my own blog anymore. Are you kidding? I haven't written a post of quality since August, and probably mid-August at best. I want to write, I really do, I just can't even think of sitting down for the 20 mins. that it requires. That's how busy I feel.

I want to scan and upload our awesome family pictures from June (now 4 months ago).

I want to show you pictures and write about our fun day at the pumpkin patch with neighbors last weekend.

I want to tell you how CRAZY busy I am with school this year and being a part of a textbook adoption committee that has me disecting textbooks for their every number.

I want to tell you that I'm using every free minute I have tracking down items to make Gage's Mickey Mouse costume with.

I want to tell you that my kid will be 2...yes TWO in 34 days!

I want to tell you that's it's incredible how MUCH my kid talks and how many titles of books he knows and how many songs he can sing word for word.

I want to write fun and interesting posts every day.

I want to tell you how much I'm NOT looking forward to getting on an airplane with an almost 2 year old next week only to get somewhere that we then have to drive 2 more hours to get where we're really going.

However, that would mean that I'd have to take 10 mins. out of my day to write something that doesn't totally suck and isn't stream of consciousness. And I just don't have time for that.....

OMG...

2011-10-08T21:51:00.000-04:00

I have totally lost my blogging mojo. After a month's hiatus in September and my super busyness, I just don't feel like I have it in me anymore. I'm in a rut, as I have been before. I have just been so busy that each moment I have free time, I just feel like doing NOTHING. I'm sure it will pass. I'd love to blog about our family pictures that we finally got and our pumpkin patch outing today and the things that have been keeping me so busy.....maybe tomorrow I'll be in the mood. This, too, shall pass......

Wordless Wednesday- A Year Ago

2011-10-05T05:47:00.000-04:00

Fall 2010- 10.5 months old

Happy 5th Birthday, Alana!

2011-10-02T08:21:00.000-04:00

Hey ya'll! I'm back from my blogging hiatus and have lots to share! However, 1st things 1st. Alana over at more than a Mommy is 5 today! Crazy! I feel like she was just 3 last year! I can't even imagine what it will be like when Gage turns 5. In any case, I've been reading Alana's mom's blog since I can remember and although she's been busy with school she still has time to post pictures of her beautiful girls and continue her creative and witty posts. Head on over to read her blog and wish Alana a Happy 5th Birthday!

Wordless Wednesday- Gage's School Picture

2011-09-28T09:30:00.000-04:00

Happy Birthday Grandiddy!

2011-09-22T08:24:00.000-04:00

Gage would like to wish his Grandiddy a very Happy Birthday today! He can't wait to go and visit this weekend and to see Grandiddy's clock!

June 2011

Wordless Wednesday- One Year Ago

2011-09-21T20:16:00.000-04:00

Look at my toothless 10 month old babe!

22 months...

2011-09-18T20:34:00.003-04:00

**Disclaimer: I did in fact write this letter on September 14th; however, didn't get it posted until now. It was another deviation from my September Break, but a necessary one. Enjoy!**

Dear Gage

It makes me nervous to even think that in just 60 days, I will have a 2 year old. My little baby is growing up. And although I look forward to the future, I miss the days of old when you would sleep on Momma's chest and want to cuddle all of the time. You are getting to be quite independent these days.

I just read your 20 month letter and I do have to say that I'm surprised about how much of it I would still write today. Maybe this is kind of a plateau age. I mean, I can't quite think of much more that you could do to amaze me. Your language skils are way above average I can imagine and you are getting more interested in your friends, which is super cute. You've grown a teeny bit since last the post it seems and are right under 23lbs. I didn't measure you tonight, but will check on that tomorrow. (32.25 inches) Everyone at daycare seems to think you've grown and I look at you sometimes and agree, but then when I measure you, it doesn't seem I'm right. You are wearing 18 month clothes now, I have finally packed away 90% of the 12 month stuff.

You can recognize all of your letters now and about 6 of your colors regularly. If you had asked me 3 weeks ago, I would've sworn you see in black and white because you were always 100% wrong about your colors. We read books so much now, you can finish most of the sentences/rhymes on your own. You ask often to go to the 'lie-buh-ree'. I will try to take you at least every other week....I had gotten slack at the end of the summer.

Of course you started back to school at the end of last month and were not happy about it. You said, 'Momma, I can't believe you're bringing me back here after 10 weeks away.' hah....not really, but it was written all over your face. You do tell me when I pick you up, 'I had good day.' and after you eat dinner, you always run over to Daddy and tell him, 'I eat......'. You are STILL a picky eater, nothing has changed there. You are more agile with stairs now although you crawl up them and slide down on your butt. At least you attempt them now. You don't have any super favorite toys at the moment, but have taken up a great interest in doodling and scribbling. You do have 11 teeth now! Crazy, I know! You have all your molars, 3 other bottom teeth and your top 4. One of your bottom teeth is coming in WAY crooked, guess the apple doesn't fall far from the tree.

Lately we have been having more playdates and it's fun to see you actually 'playing' with other kids. You are getting a little more coordinated lately and have almost learned to jump. Unfortunately the Little Gym is over for the summer, but we hope to go back next summer! You haven't been sleeping the best lately and I'm not sure if you just need less sleep or what. You have definitely been taking 'crap naps' since you've been back at school. However, you have also gotten at least 3 teeth in the last 3 weeks, so that could have something to do with it. I also have a feeling you're about to get naughty as you are nearing your 2nd birthday. Who knows, maybe it's just a stage....

I'm sure I'll think of a hundred things tomorrow to add, but I think that pretty much sums you up these days. I am falling more in love with you every day and cherish every moment I have with you when I'm not at work. I love your hugs and kisses every day when I pick you up and before bed. I can't believe I will be planning your 2nd birthday party in the coming weeks. I love you, my Gage, to the moon and back.

Love, Mommy

This is what getting 3 teeth simultaneously looks like.

Happy 2nd Birthday Bryce!

2011-09-12T09:31:00.000-04:00

Although I'm not posting anything this month, I had to make an exception and wish Bryce over at The Life of Rylie....and Bryce too! a very Happy 2nd birthday. As I've said before, Bryce's Mom was a huge help to me when I first started blogging and her blog is totally awesome! Not only does she have great pictures and stories of/about her kids, but she also has great giveaways and weekly memes! Definitley something to check out. Head on over and wish Bryce a wonderful day!

10 years later- Never Forget

2011-09-11T14:04:00.000-04:00

Happy 8th Birthday Madison!

2011-09-09T19:39:00.001-04:00

I almost missed this one....good thing I was looking through last year's posts. On my birthday list, I had that today was Madison's birthday and I was pretty confused b/c I knew that yesterday was Madison's birthday. I just figured I made a typo. Well yesterday was Madison, our niece's birthday and today is my friend Casey's Madison's birthday. Too much to keep track of! haha.....Anyway, my real life friend Casey's little girl turns 8 today, so please head on over to All Because Two People Fell in Love and wish her a good one!

Btw, Casey, for some reason last year, I spelled your name with a K....I must have still been crazy and sleep deprived! Happy Birthday Madison!

Happy 15th Birthday Madison!

2011-09-08T09:36:00.000-04:00

It's our niece's 15th birthday today! Here's wishing her a great one! I'm embarassed to say we have NO recent pictures of her. I promise I'll try and get some during our October visit!

Wordless Wednesday- Hair Gel?

2011-09-07T07:46:00.000-04:00

Yes, ladies and gentleman, that is peanut butter in his hair

Nana and Grandiddy's house

2011-09-04T14:41:00.000-04:00

The newest edition of Pillow Pets

Sea turtle nursery

Va Beach Aquarium

Scary Komodo Dragon

Outer Banks- August 2011

2011-09-03T15:28:00.000-04:00

Nana and Gage

Sportin' his Cap'n Franks shirt

Gage's best touchdown pose

I'm watching YOU!

A Wrap Up...

2011-08-31T21:25:00.001-04:00

Sorry guys, I have been waaaayyy busy with the start of the new school year. I know, I know we got home on Friday from our crazy vacation and I haven't posted any pictures or anything. I think I just needed some down time. As I mentioned it was a vacation for the books and I spent the weekend relaxing. We spent more than a week away from home and that's exhausting in itself. Not to mention....an excessive amount of vomit, a busted lip, an earthquake, an almost really bad accident that resulted in an Urgent Care visit, an electrical current through a pool, a bad reaction to medicine AND a hurricane evacuation....it's definitley enough to wear you out. So....as I said, I have been regrouping and preparing for another crazy school year. We didn't get as many pictures as I had wished, but I will post some in the next few days.

A few more things to wrap up....my Carmex giveaway ends on Friday. Please enter if you haven't.

Also, aside from birthdays and my monthly letter to Gage, I will refrain from posting anything other than pictures for the month of September. Last year, I took a 'September Break' in order to get a little more organized at the beginning of the year and to spend some time with my family, now that I seem to have less of it. I enjoyed it and will do the same this year. I'm pretty sure October will be here before I know it and I'll be back in the saddle. Until then, I will still read blogs when I get the chance, but am really going to try to limit my screen time (computer) and spend more time with myself and my family. Plus, it's football season so I'l have plenty to do! Talk with you soon! And don't worry, I'll still post pictures of Gage!

Also had to get rid of the rainbow, I felt this background said 'Fall' a little better. Now I gotta get working on a new banner as well.