Michael et al

Easter 2010

2010-09-09T08:55:00.001-07:00

So, my Easter plans didn't go as planned. This year will be memorable, with the birth of Tyler. But it didn't lend itself to developing the holiday traditions I had hoped fur. As I have mentioned before, I want to start holiday traditions so Michael will have some of the fun memories of holidays that I have from my childhood. We didn't get a chance to hide the Easter eggs we dyed or wear the Easter outfits I had purchased, but Michael did still get to participate in some Easter activities. Since Greg and I were at the hospital, our wonderful neighbors from across the street, the Millins, had Michael over for their Easter Egg Hunt. They went all out and had over 50 eggs! Michael found the last egg after everyone had been looking for 15 minutes!

Michael with his PINK Easter Basket

(Christy said he picked it out! Go figure!)

Michael modeling his Easter outfit

(looks pretty cool huh?)

Michael and Daddy before church in their Easter clothes

(Taken on another Sunday)

Welcome Tyler!

2010-09-03T13:00:00.000-07:00

We welcomed Tyler to this world at 4:12 am on Easter Sunday, April 4, 2010. What a surprise that was! It shouldn't have been too much of a surprise, it was just 9 days before my due date. But since Michael had come the day before his due date, I was sure Tyler would follow suit. Plus, my mom wasn't here yet and I still had some loose ends to tie up at work.

Saturday had been a busy day. We had been running errands around town and planning for Easter. As I mentioned in the post below, we had been dyeing Easter eggs and while I was cleaning up, I felt some contractions. This was not abnormal for me. I had been having contractions forever. I finished cleaning up and then sat on the floor to play with Michael. Then I had a contraction that got my attention and I thought, hmm, perhaps I should time these. They were coming every 7 minutes!! But I thought, no, this isn't happening. They don't hurt, plus my due date isn't for a few more days. I started to get Michael ready for bed, and they kept coming. Greg came home while I was getting Michael ready for bed and I told him that we might be having a baby tonight! He was so excited, but I had the anxious feeling...it wasn't suppose to be happening yet. My mom wasn't here, who was going to stay with Michael... Then I looked at Michael, he was being so cute and happy and I thought, "oh no! What am I doing to Michael?" His whole life is about the change and I felt so guilty. (Funny that I had this guilt now and not when I found out that I was pregnant!) I always sing to Michael before bed and while I was singing, I started to cry. I could barely get the words out. He was so sweet and asked if I was okay. I told him that I was and that I loved him very much. Then I told him that his baby brother would be here soon. After we got Michael in bed, Greg and I decided that we needed to make plans on who would stay with Michael if we did indeed go to the hospital. The contractions still didn't hurt, but they were coming every 5 minutes, but I still wasn't convinced that I was in actual labor. We decided to call Maria Hernandez to come stay the night, just in case. Maria had been on the women's golf team the year before and had become a good friend of our family. Michael adores her, so I knew that he would be okay if he woke up the next morning and only Maria was there. She got to our house around 10:00 pm and Greg told me that he thought I should at least call the doctor and go to the hospital. I still wasn't convinced, since the contractions didn't hurt like they did with Michael. Greg finally convinced me and I and finally called. The doctor told me to head over the hospital to be checked. We got to the hospital around 11:00 pm. They checked me and I was around 3 cm dilated and my contractions were consistent. They admitted me around 12:00 am. Once I got settled in, I decided I wanted to get the epidural. I was still handling the contractions very well, but I didn't want to go too far and then run out of time and not be able to get the epidural. So, I got the epidural when I was around 6-7 cms. The doctor said she thought I was a great candidate to have a natural child birth, since I was handling them so well. But I knew better! I knew it would get worse and I didn't want to try it! The nurse noticed that the baby's heart rate kept dropping with each contraction, so she checked me to see where I was and I was at 10 cms. She called the doctor, he came in and I pushed twice and Tyler was born! He was 7 lbs 6 ozs and 19 inches long. He had pink skin and reddish, blond hair, and as sweet as could be!! The Easter Bunny was extra kind to us this year!

Weighing In at 7 lbs 6 ounces

"Where am I?"

Clean and Warm

I look so tired in this picture. I would like to say that is was because I just delivered a baby, but I don't think having an epidural and pushing twice qualifies as "hard labor"! But it was 4:00 am!

Big brother seeing Ty-man for the first time. Nice to see he was welcomed with kisses instead of pinches! (unfortunately, the newness has worn off and Tyler is sometimes the victim of Michael's temper tantrums!)

My boys!

Michael looked HUGE compared to Tyler. It was as if he grew a ton over night!

Maria (our trusted babysitter) and Tyler

Going Home

(So if Tyler is in the car seat, why do I still look pregnant?)

A Proud Big Brother!

A Proud Daddy!

Grammy arrived the day we went home from the hospital. Thank goodness we were not on our own for too long!

I love this picture! Greg was taking a picture of me and Tyler and Michael popped up in the back, with a binky in his mouth!!! The identity crisis begins!! Michael still (5 months later) likes to play like he is Tyler. He likes me to wrap him up, pretend to feed and burp him! We also have to call him Tyler!

Proud Mama and her Baby!!

Easter Eggs and "OUCH", What was that, a contraction?

2010-09-03T08:18:00.000-07:00

This year I made a commitment to begin traditions with Michael so that he would have some of the same fond memories of holidays that I had as a child. Easter egg dyeing was one of those and I knew that he would love it. So, the Saturday before Easter, we headed to the store, bought a dozen eggs and some dye. Below is our product. Michael and I were both very proud.

Afterward, I was cleaning up and started to feel a few contractions. Very normal for me, I had contractions starting at week 26 and felt them all of the time. Nothing to worry about. My due date wasn't for another 9 days, my mom would be here the following Tuesday. I told myself to just relax and Greg would be home soon.

Fast forward 8 hours and....

Making Room for Baby Brother

2010-09-03T07:35:00.000-07:00

There are several milestones we look forward to as parents...our baby's first smile, rolling over, eating solid food, crawling, walking, talking. As parents we celebrate these accomplishments and compare when our children reach these milestones to other children; and when our children reach them before other children, we know it is because our kids are smarter, brighter, and more talented. (come on admit it, we all think that!) :) But there is one milestone that I think most parents face with trepidation and put it off as long a possible...moving their child from a crib to a bed! Yep, say goodbye to your evenings after the kids go to bed, and say hello to your little nightly and early morning visitor! Well, with the arrival of a new baby and the need for the crib, we decided to move Michael to his "Big Boy" bed in February. We wanted to do it early enough that he would be adapted to his new bed and no longer consider the crib his and accuse the baby of taking over. All in all, it went pretty smoothly. Although, Michael is up much later now that he can leave his bed, and he has wandered into our room every morning, sometime between 5:45 and 8:00, depending on what time he went to bed and the amount of light coming in his room in the morning. Anyway, this milestone has been met!

Michael proudly showing off his "Big Boy" bed

Now we have taken the rails down and this is what his new room looks like.

After we finished redoing Michael's room, it was time to set up a new nursery. Thanks to my Mom and Sydnee who came to do all of the labor, I think Tyler's room came together very nicely. I chose a surfer theme, in hope that this new baby would be laid back and take things as they came. (very prophetic I must say!)

Christmas in Roswell...and a few other pictures

2010-01-29T12:19:00.000-08:00

Well, I am finally getting around to posting our Christmas Pictures. This year, we went to Roswell to spend Christmas with Greg's parents, grandparents, and sister and her husband. We had a great time...once we got there! Yes, we were some of those people stuck in the Dallas airport on Christmas Eve! Because of Greg's schedule, we had to leave for Roswell on the 24th. I was very nervous about traveling on Christmas Eve, that something would go wrong and we would miss Christmas, but we didn't have a choice. I thought, if we can just get out of Indiana and to Dallas, we will be fine. What did I know. As we were waiting in the Indy airport, I noticed a TV that had the weather on. They were talking about a BIG snow storm. I didn't pay much attention at first and then noticed that the map looked like Texas. I then realized they were talking about Dallas! Oh no! After being really upset, frustrated and delayed...I relaxed and realized, that there was nothing we could do and to just let it go. I was so grateful that Michael was only 2 and wouldn't miss Santa and all of the Christmas festivities, since he didn't really understand them anyway. I couldn't imagine what it would have been like if he had been 6 and freaking out because Santa wouldn't know to come to the Dallas airport.

Well, we finally made it to Dallas and found that our flight to Roswell had been cancelled. They re-booked us on a flight to Albuquerque and Greg's sister booked us a room at a hotel near the airport. Our flight to Albuquerque was delayed for several hours and didn't leave until 1:00 am central time (2:00 am eastern, our time). Of course, Michael stayed up the whole time. Thank goodness he was very good as long as he was being pushed in the stroller or running around. He didn't want to sit or lay down AT ALL! While we were waiting it out in Dallas, I noticed that Michael had a rash. I first noticed it on his neck, then on his stomach, then all over. We later discovered that they were hives....more about that later. Finally, at 3:00 am mountain time (5:00 am eastern and Christmas morning) we settled in bed at the Courtyard Marriott in Albuquerque. What a night!

We woke up around 9:00 and went down to the lobby for a warm breakfast. It tasted so good after a day of airport food!

Michael eating breakfast Christmas morning, 2009!

Then around 10:00, Greg's Dad and JoJo's husband picked us up for the 3 hour drive to Roswell. We got to Roswell at 1:00 pm Christmas day. So much for my ideas of how our Christmas would be. But that didn't matter. We had a great time once we got there and it was great to be with family. I told Greg while we were waiting in the Dallas airport, "at least we are together. That is what is important". Everyone was so glad once we got there and anxious to start opening gifts!

Michael seeing what Santa brought him!

A putting green!

All of the loot!

Another one of his favorite gifts! A Steelers helmet!

On Saturday, Michael's "rash" had not gone away, so I called the doctor. They told me that it was probably hives, but they wanted him checked by a doctor. So, we spent 3 hours in the ER on Saturday. Finally, they confirmed they were hives and had no idea what brought them on. We got some meds and then were ready to start enjoying our time there!

This picture really shows his hives

(cheeks, neck, and hands)

After Christmas, we went backed to Greg's parents home, where everything was ready for Michael. Becky ordered a rubber mat for him to play on, since they have all tile in their home. It was like a play ground just for Michael! She also had a CD full of Elmo songs that Michael just loved. He learned to turn on the CD player and turn the volume WAY up! He likes to listen to Elmo loud! She also had some rhythm sticks for him to play with and a whole bunch of activities!

Puppy ears made by Grandma

Frosting chocolate cookies with Elmo decorations!

It snowed in Roswell too, so Grandma and Michael built a snowman

We also went to the New Mexico Military Institute

where Michael got to swim and play basketball

On New Year's Eve, we had some noise makers. Michael was having a hard time blowing his and making noise. I noticed that he was blowing through his nose, so I plugged it. When he realized that made it work, he thought he had to plug his nose all of the time. It was pretty cute and funny!

After New Year's Day, our fun trip was over. And wouldn't you know it, we were delayed on our way home too! This time it wasn't so bad. Michael was really a great kid through it all. Below is a picture we took at the Memphis airport. What a cutie!

Once we got back to West Lafayette, we were greeted with more snow. It was freezing, but I wanted Michael to have a chance and get out and play in it. It was 15 degrees, so we really had to bundle him up! They only stayed out for about 5 minutes and were welcomed back in to some hot chocolate! Yummy!

My boys bundled up!

Watching Daddy make a snow angel.

Michael wasn't interested in trying it!

Giving me a thumbs up!

Well you made it through this long post. I hope you enjoyed the pictures!

Getting Ready for Christmas

2009-12-23T13:08:00.000-08:00

We are so excited for the Christmas season! I am proud to show you that Greg and I were able to fully decorate our house this season - in spite of Greg being gone so much of December. Anyway, I thought you would enjoy seeing the fruits of our labor! :)

Michael and I sure have enjoyed it! Merry Christmas!

Little Man ready for Church

Merry Christmas!

"Mom keeps telling me not to touch the tree, but it is so hard to resist!"

Thankgiving in Bama!

2009-12-23T10:36:00.000-08:00

Well, once again, I am behind on updating the blog. But I think I have a good excuse...it being the Christmas season and all! :)

This year we spent our Thanksgiving in Alabama with all of my family. It was a blast to go see where Kit, Lib and the boys live. Everyone in my family had already visited, so we were excited to see what all of the fuss was about! :) Well, we were not disappointed! We had so much fun and let me tell you - the South really knows how to eat! We went to Lamberts - Home of the Throwed Rolls for Josiah's birthday! There you eat until you can't move! They actually throw rolls at you, the size of a LARGE grapefruit - so watch out! Then there are people coming around with pots of food - mac and cheese, fried okra, fried potatoes, and more... I can't even remember all that was passed around. And all of that was on top of your entree! I had chicken fried steak, mashed potatoes with gravy, and green beans. When I was finished, you could hardly tell I had even touched it. That is how much food there was! But it was so good! While we were there, they announced that is was Jos' birthday and a few people came by and gave him some money. I think he got about $3 worth. He was thrilled and so cute! It was just like the South to be so gracious and help make a sweet little boy's birthday even better!

At Lamberts - check out the size of the rolls!

(Mack, Gunner, Liberty, Sydnee)

The rest of the gang at Lamberts

Jos opening his birthday presents

We were also treated to a low-land boil by Kit, Lib, and Mack (Liberty's brother). We had shrimp, potatoes, corn on the cob, and green beans. All you can eat shrimp - that's what I am talking about! YUMMY! Then Kit also deep fried our Thanksgiving Turkey! So good! It makes my mouth water just thinking about it!

Kit and Mack deep frying the Thanksgiving Turkey

**They look like a couple of good ole' boys throwing back a few ;)**

Our Thanksgiving table

While we were there, we rented a house on the beach. The water was too cold for my liking, but the kids didn't seem to mind! We even rented some kayaks so the "boys" could go out and get a closer look at the dolphins. It worked, Parker, Mack and Jos were able to get within a couple of feet of some dolphins! Greg was so jealous!

Our house was the blue one

Mack and Ellee

Michael sitting on Greg's sand castle

Parker, Jos and Mack getting the kayaks ready

Greg out on a solo voyage

The boys!

Michael showing us his golf swing while on a walk along the beach.

Ellee and Michael

In deep thought - perhaps he will be able to solve the healthcare problem?

Another cute picture!

The best part of the whole trip was being able to spend time together. Michael loves his cousins! It was so fun to watch him jump in and wrestle with the boys! He already knew Parker and Ellee very well and loves to visit and play with them. But this was the first time he had seen Kit and Liberty's kids since he was 9 months old. Greg and I laugh that Michael and Gunner had a love/hate relationship! They were so intrigued by eachother, but were quick to squeal if either of them did something they didn't like. But, they proved to be great buddies and Michael is still talking about Gunner! :)

Little Buddies

(Gunner and Michael)

Wrestling with the boys!

Me reading Thanksgiving stories during Family Home Evening

Parker and Michael wrestling

(Parker was great with the little boys!)

All and all, we had a great time together as a family. We have so much to be grateful for! The Lord has blessed our family beyond what we deserve. I am so grateful for this Holiday Season when the world stops to remember the birth and life of our Savior. May we all strive to carry that spirit in our hearts all year long.

All of the Grandchildren

(Michael, Parker, Ellee, Gunnison, Gavin, Jos)

Busy Fall

2009-11-18T10:06:00.000-08:00

****Well, I started this post before I left for vacation and just finished it now. It is a little outdated, but here you go. New posts to follow soon! ****

A couple of weeks ago, we drove to Columbus, OH to celebrate Parker's birthday. He turned 12 and in our church, boys receive the Priesthood at this time. So, we had lots of family there. It was so fun to see Grammy and Papa, Dale's parents Tom and Marlene, and my sister and her family.

For Parker's birthday, we went to dinner at Kobe Steakhouse. It is a Japanese steakhouse, where they cook the food in front of you. Not only was the steak AMAZING, it was so fun to watch the chef entertain us with his slicing and dicing. Michael was particularly impressed and applauded him whenever he did something amazing. Then all of a sudden, we heard some drums and it was two Chinese dragons putting on a show. At first, I thought Michael would be scared, but of course he wasn't, he loved it!

Michael and Ellee at Kobe's

Michael and Ellee with the Chinese dragon

Watching the dragon

(Michael, Ellee, Marlene, Tom)

Fascinated by the chef

Before we left Sydnee's, we went to church and we took a picture of Michael dressed in his Sunday best! He is pretty cute, if I do say so myself.

I also had to add these pictures taken at Michael's doctor's office. This time they gave us a hospital gown to dress him in while he waited for the doctor. I guess it was because it was so cold that day. Anyway, I thought he looked adorable, so Greg took a couple pictures!

Do you feel a breeze?

Then this past weekend, we went to the Purdue/Michigan State football game. Michael really likes football and enjoyed every aspect of the game (see pictures and video below).

With Greg before the game

Watching the pre-game warm-up.

(when you go to the game with Greg, you take in the whole event!)

Future football star!

Tackled for a loss

Boiler Up!

Taking it all in....

Trick or Treat

2009-11-10T10:55:00.000-08:00

Even though I love Halloween, I have been a really loser the past few years and have not really gotten into the Halloween spirit. I didn't even carve a pumpkin the past two years. (Don't worry, we did have a pumpkin out each year, thanks to Greg - He is the master of pumpkin carving! or at least he thinks so) This year, I decided that I would dive into the festivities so Michael would enjoy it and start those fun traditions that you remember forever.

Here are some pictures of our pumpkins! Greg carved his and Michael's, I carved my own. Unlike Liberty, I insist that someone else gut the pumpkin and I just do the carving. Luckily, Greg agreed to clean mine out (after much complaining from me!)

Greg's, Ashlee's, and Michael's

(Greg carved Michael's, but I designed it!)

I guess the nice thing about Michael being two is that I still get to decide what he will be for Halloween. I am not looking forward to the days where he comes up with an idea for a costume and I have to figure out how to pull it off. I am not very creative and I'm jealous of those that are (like Liberty's eyeball and mosquito costumes for Jos!) Anyway, he went as a little monkey. He was so cute and didn't mind wearing the hat/hood all night. Michael enjoyed trick or treating, but he was a little confused. He would knock on the door and when they opened the door, Michael tried to go in the house every time! :) I guess he thought, "Hey they are opening the door for me, aren't they?"

Trick or Treat

Back with all of the loot!

Helping himself to a little more candy!

His daycare didn't have a Halloween parade this year, which was disappointing. I guess parents couldn't follow the rules and leave masks and swords at home (what parent would think it was okay to bring toy swords to a daycare! They should have to be locked in a room with 10 3 year-olds running around with swords! That would be a nightmare!) So, I guess I can't blame the daycare for not wanting to submit themselves to that. Instead they had a pajama party. The kids were invited to wear their PJ's to school. It was so cute to see all of the kids in their PJ's. You just wanted to give all of them a squeeze! They also made the cutest little bat hats. Michael loves to wear his!

Michael ready for school in his Halloween PJ's

His Bat hat

Even though he is rubbing his eyes, I liked this picture because you can really see his hat.

Now on to Thanksgiving and Christmas! Yahoo!

Happy Birthday to you....Happy Birthday to you...

2009-11-06T07:31:00.000-08:00

**Warning, this post is long and detailed. But if you make it to the end, there are LOTS of pictures.***

Michael turned two on Oct 21! He had such a fun day! He loved singing Happy Birthday to you followed by the sound of a noise maker. Greg taught him this and I still hear him doing it from time to time.

So he started the day with Mommy and Daddy singing him Happy Birthday. He had the cutest smile as he listened and tried to open his sleepy eyes. Greg had bought some noise makers and Michael thought they were the greatest things ever!

Then he went to his daycare, where everyone greeted him with "Happy Birthday Michael". I could tell by the smile on his face, he was loving the attention and knew this was going to be a fun day. We brought in some cupcakes so he could celebrate with his friends and teachers.

I picked up Michael after work and we met Daddy at Chuck-E-Cheese! What a fun place for little kids. They gave us some tokens because it was his birthday and then we got some based on our food order. So we didn't have to pay for any of the rides! Anyway, Michael loved the little show put on by the Chuck-E-Cheese band and clapped after each song. Then he went on to ride many of the rides.

Then it was time to head home for presents and birthday cake. He loved opening everything and wanted to play with them right away. He was excited about the Play dough from Uncle Kit, Aunt Liberty, Jos, Gavin, and Gunner. The books from Aunt Sydnee, Uncle Dale, Parker and Ellee were also a hit. The remote controlled car from Grandma and Grandpa scared him a little at first!. It was funny to watch him with it. He would cover his eyes and then peek out to see it. He is over that now loves to run it over my feet or step in the way when I am driving it so it runs over his feet. He thinks that is soooooooo funny! He also loves his basketball goal from Grammy and Papa. Greg has taught him to slam dunk and he wants to do that all of the time. He likes Greg to hold him up and do the Michael Jordan leap dunk! (Greg likes this too!). He also got some Elmo hands from Grammy and Papa and is now obsessed with Elmo. It is pretty cute and Greg and I go around singing the song, Tickle and Groove, ALL of the time. We can't get it out of our heads. Good thing it is a cute song or it would be driving me nuts! :) He also got some fun bowling pins from Aunt JoJo and Uncle John. Thanks to everyone for all of the fun gifts! He is having so much fun playing with his new toys!

After the gifts, we sang Happy Birthday again and had some cake. But by that time, Michael was worn out and ready for bed. He talked to both sets of grandparents on the web cam and then went to bed. What a fun day!

We are so grateful to have Michael in our family. He is like our little ray of sunshine! He is always smiling and ready for some fun! He has such a sweet spirit and I know that he is going to be a great Big Brother!

We love you Michael!!

The Birthday Boy in the car on the way to Chuck-E-Cheese

Michael applauding the Chuck-E-Cheese Band

Riding in the Jeep

More rides - but this one was too big for him, so he just pretended to play

This one with Barney

and the Tractor

With Daddy and all of the loot!

Yummy!

Yes, he still does hands - this was spontaneous

(probably brought on by the sugar and excitement!)

Reading his birthday cards with Mommy

Slam Dunk!

(proving that white boys can't jump)

Elmo Hands

Boiler Up!!

2009-10-20T08:37:00.001-07:00

Michael has been to a couple of football games this year, and much to his Daddy's delight, he loves it!! He loves wearing his Purdue jersey, he loves the band, he loves the crowd, he loves the cheers, and he loves the food!! This past Saturday, was the Purdue / Ohio State game...and guess what?!?! Purdue WON! It was Purdue's first win over a ranked opponent since 2003, so it was almost historic! ;)

Anyway, Michael did great at the game even though it started at Noon (his nap time). He made lots of friends with everyone around us. He really is quite the charmer!

Michael with Devon Brouse - Head Golf Coach

Michael loves Devon and thankfully, Coach Brouse is fond of Michael

"Hey - is that my popcorn I dropped in the 2nd Quarter?"

"Wow - 4 Quarters really wears a little man out!"

Still asleep - through the 4th Quarter, walk to the car, and the car ride.

"By the way, did the Boilers Win?"

Still asleep after the car ride and being transferred into the house.

Nothing is waking up this little man!

Below are some other cute pictures we have taken lately.

Michael proudly wearing his Purdue jersey.

He cried when I made him take it off for bath time

Michael hiding in our closet.

I love his smile!

Hiking or sitting on the football.

Or boofall, as Michael likes to call it!

Well, after a nine month hiatus, I thought I would update our blog. Who knows if anyone is reading it anymore, but I decided to give it another try.

Halloween...Grammy...Grandma.....and more

2009-01-08T18:37:00.000-08:00

Well, I am a little behind in posting on the blog (as usual). We have done so much this fall and I haven't posted any of it!

Here are some pictures from a visit to Stillwater, a visit from Greg's mom, Halloween, and a few random pictures we have taken this fall. If you look closely, you can tell how much he has grown over the fall.

Greg and our little Gangsta!

Trick or Treat

I love my Daddy!

Grandma and Michael

(Greg's Mom)

Papa and Michael

(Ashlee's Dad)

Grammy and Michael

(Ashlee's Mom)

Relaxing on the Hammock

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year

2009-01-08T17:40:00.000-08:00

This year we spent Christmas at my sister's in Ohio. It was so fun. My parents came and it was so good to see them. It was fun to be together, but we missed my brother's family. Sydnee and Dale were great hosts and treated us to too many yummy meals and desserts. When I left, I thought I may never need to eat again. Seriously, I am ready for the New Year diet!

Anyway, we had a great time. Michael loved being with Grammy and Papa and his cousins. It was so cute to watch him with Ellee and Parker, you could tell that he thought everything they did was so fun!

Christmas Eve

(Parker, Michael, Ellee)

After Santa's Visit!

Christmas Morning

At the top of the stairs waiting to come down.

Showing Ellee what Santa brought!

Enough of the presents! Let's play in the boxes!

All of the Loot!

A new set up golf clubs

(his second set at age 14 months!)

A real Steelers Fan!

Happy New Year!

Michael made his own hat!

1 Year Old - Time To Celebrate!!!

2008-11-04T20:06:00.000-08:00

Michael celebrated his first birthday with many friends. He loved the attention, the cake, and gifts. It was so fun to watch him enjoy his day. He had seriously outgrown his baby toys, so it was wonderful to get many new "Big Boy" toys. I would love to be able to know what he really thought. So many people paying attention to his antics (he really is a ham!), discovering chocolate cake for the first time (how had Mom deprived him of this wonderful treat until now!!), and being able to tear open his presents (Mom usually stops him from ripping paper up).

It was a great day, and best of all, I think Michael could tell that this was a special day for him.

Wow this is good!!

Lick it clean Michael!

Michael's little friend, Ian.

Michael's Girlfriends (or at least Greg likes to think so!)

Mia, Michael, and Maddi

Playing with his new toys!

Happy Birthday Michael!

2008-10-26T17:07:00.000-07:00

This past week, we celebrated Michael's first birthday. I have always heard that your children grow up so quickly, but I never really understood it until now. This past year has flown by so fast! Greg and I marvel when we watch Michael cruising around, playing with his toys, eating on his own; that just last year he couldn't do any of these things.

We have spent much of this past week thinking about when Michael was born. I was so anxious for him to come. My pregnancy went very smooth, so I was a little worried that I wouldn't be so lucky in my delivery. But to my relief, that went really well (thanks to the epidural!). Michael arrived at 6:13 pm, on October 21st. He was screaming before he was fully delivered, letting us know that we were in for an exciting ride!!

And that started our life with Michael and it has been a thrill ever since. Greg and I thank our Heavenly Father every day for sending us such a special little boy. He is such a happy baby. His little spirit just brightens every room. We love you little Michael!! We are so happy that you are part of our family!

Going Home

Many Late Nights!!

Oh, How Your Daddy Loves You!

What A Smile!

Our Little Santa!!

All Grown Up!

2008-10-05T17:15:00.000-07:00

I can't believe how much Michael has grown up. I look at him everyday and wonder where that little baby went! He is so much fun and just lights up every room with his smile. Greg and I love to go visit him at the daycare because he just warms our hearts when we walk in. He is so social and loves to play, but he will always stop (just a for a moment) to give his parents a smile and a hug before wiggling free to get back to the business of playing. Here are some of my favorite pictures from the past few months.

Relaxing

Samantha and Michael

(neighbor girl who loves Michael)

Such a cutie!

Michael went through a stage where this was the only way he would fall asleep. He would sit up and cry until he couldn't keep his head up any longer and fall asleep. It was so sad! :(

He loves black beans, but he makes a complete mess. I think he looks like he has a beard!

Another messy, but cute face!

More black beans!

Michael loves to play in his toy corner. He will entertain himself here for a long time!

About a month ago, Michael started to let go when he is standing up. He is getting more and more brave!

Michael and Greg sent me flowers for my birthday! I love my guys!

Some serious bed head!

Michael went on his first play date with my friend's little boy, Alex.

Alex is about 5 months older.

He is so curious about the camera!

Michael knows where his food is. He loves to open the cupboard and get his cookies and crackers out. This time, he was able to open the crackers. He helped him self to a little snack!

Where's Michael ??

2008-10-03T21:02:00.000-07:00

Here is a cute video of Michael playing peek-a-boo. Shuting doors is one of his favorite things. Greg and I laugh that to Michael, the world is just not right if there is an open door!

Grandpa Comes to Town

2008-10-03T18:27:00.000-07:00

Well, again it has been a long time since I have posted anything, but we have been very busy. In August, Greg's Dad came to visit. We had such a great time and Michael loved the time with his Grandpa. He and Grandpa roughhoused and of course Grandpa showed him how to throw a ball. But the highlight of the trip was Michael's first football game. Purdue played Northern Colorado and Purdue was able to put a victory on the board! Boiler Up!!

Michael and Grandpa

Michael and Daddy at the Game

On The Move

2008-07-19T06:10:00.000-07:00

Well, this week was exciting for Michael...he is on the move. Yep, he crawled for the first time! I was lucky to record it. The filming isn't great because he is moving towards me as I am shaking a rattle to get his attention. But it is pretty cute. He was so proud of himself! He had a huge grin on his face when we called Greg to give him the news. Then he did a new accomplishment. Lately, he has been pulling himself up on everything, but just to his knees. After he had been crawling for the first time, I was sitting on the floor with him and he was pulling himself up to his knees on the ottoman. I was watching TV and looked over and he was standing up!! So, Thursday, July 17th was a big day for Michael. Makes you wonder if there was something in the food at the daycare that day!

It has been forever since I have posted anything and lots has been going on. Michael has met Pro Bowler, Drew Brees (Quarterback for the New Orleans Saints and former Purdue standout). Enjoyed a visit from his cousins and Uncle Kit and Aunt Liberty and his Grammy and Papa. He went to the Women's NCAA Golf Championship in Albuquerque and visited his Great Grandparents. In the first eight months of life, Michael has sure done a lot and met many people. He is really growing up and everyone is telling me that he looks less and less like a baby and more and more like a toddler. He is more fun than ever, but I don't want him to grow up too fast.

On The Move

Michael with Drew Brees

Michael with Cousins Gavin and Josiah

Michael with Yia Yia and Pappou

Michael with Maria

(2 time First Team All-American at Purdue)

Michael with Purdue Women's Golf Team

2008 NCAA Golf Championship

4th Place Finish

Michael in the Bath

My Little Charmer Lounging in the Stroller

My Big Boy

Happy Easter!!

2008-03-27T17:43:00.001-07:00

We spent the Easter weekend at my sister's home in Ohio. Sydnee and Dale recently bought a new home, so my parents were there helping them paint and get settled in. It was so fun to see everyone there. My parents had not seen Michael since Thanksgiving (he was just 8 weeks old). He is now 5 months old! They couldn't believe how much he had changed. He is rolling over now! It won't be long before he is on the move!

Michael had so much fun with his cousins, Parker and Ellee. They love him and are so cute with him. Ellee read to him and Parker loved to hold him and teach him all about the NCAA tournament. It was so cute to see Parker hold him while they watched the games. Too bad we didn't get a picture of that! :)

Ellee reading to Michael - Too Sweet!

Daddy and Michael ready for church - Happy Easter!

Easter Candy...too bad Mom and Dad ate it all!!

(Check out the socks!)

Ellee in her Easter dress

Mommy and Michael

Sydnee and Dale's New Home

Yes, We Are Still Here

2008-03-09T19:58:00.000-07:00

Yes, we are still alive and well! I know everyone was worried since I haven't posted anything since January! Wow, February flew by....and so much as happened.

Michael is now 4 months old. I can't believe it! He is really growing up and doing new things everyday. He completely entertains us! And of course Greg and I are like typical first time parents, we think our little guy is the most amazing baby EVER!!!

Here are some updated pictures of Michael and a couple of video clips. Michael has started to eat rice cereal. He loves it! There is also a video of him laughing. It is so cute, but you will have to ignore the amateur video!

Mmmm...rice cereal is good stuff!
Video Coming Soon

Tickle Me Michael

I Don't Like Shots!

Hello Grammy

Super Baby

I Love My Daddy!

I've Been Tagged!

2008-03-08T18:51:00.000-08:00

Here are 7 facts about me:

I like rap and hip hop music. It's kind of a guilty pleasure. My current favorite song is by Flo Rida...."apple bottom jeans and boots with the fur. She's got the whole club lookin' at hur..."
I love sports...watching sports that is! I can't play at all, but I love watching basketball, football and now thanks to Greg...golf!
I hate my naturally curly hair...but everyone probably knows that. I wish I had straight, dark brown hair. I know...we all wish for what we don't have!
I love to shop! I really have to watch it because I could spend all of our money on clothes, shoes and ahh, a great hand bag!
Peppermint Patties are my favorite candy bar. When I was pregnant, I had one almost everyday...hum, maybe that's why I packed on the extra pounds! :)
I don't take naps. I don't know why. It drives my husband crazy!!
I have the most incredible husband and baby boy! No one can compare!!!

Alright...I don't have that many friends that blog and those that do have "retired" from the tagging game. So, if you are reading this blog and are not in retirement status, then consider yourself tagged!

Michael Goes to Nashville!

2008-01-24T19:28:00.000-08:00

This past weekend Michael et al went to Nashville to attend the Scoop for CAbi. For those of you who don't know what CAbi is, it is a clothing line that I sell through home shows, and the Scoop is the semi-annual conference that I attend. This time it was in Nashville at the Opry Land hotel. The hotel was huge and awesome! We had a great time and Michael was a real hit with the 2500 CAbi ladies. He was affectionately known at the cutest CAbi baby!! I'll tell you what, he has honed his flirting skills! He can smile and bat his eyelashes shamelessly.

During the day, Michael spent his time with his Daddy. They had so much fun exploring the hotel. The hotel is full of waterfalls and gardens. Michael loved to observe all that was going on around him and loved all of the sounds. Greg loved spending so much time with Michael. It was the most time he has spent with him on his own and he did a great job! He even handled a couple of blow outs!! Yuck!!

Michael and Greg living it up Nashville style!

Michael and Greg by a waterfall at the Opryland Hotel

More waterfalls!

Aren't we a cute family!! :)

Robertson Look-alike Meter

2008-01-16T20:59:00.001-08:00

This was fun and easy to do! I knew he looked more like me!! :)

Sick Day

2008-01-14T10:38:00.000-08:00

Today, Michael woke up with a fever. He has been fighting a cold all weekend. Both Greg and I noticed that he was fussy yesterday, but we thought is was just the cold. Usually he wakes up around 7:30 in the morning, but today it was 8:00 and he will wasn't up. I went in to wake him up to get dressed, but he was so sleepy. Finally I was able to wake him up enough to feed him and while I was feeding him, I noticed that he was really hot. We took his temperature and it was 100.4. I gave him some Tylenol and called the doctor to see if I should do anything else. The nurse said that he needed to come in. They always want to check a baby as young as he is, if they are running a fever. So we have an appointment at 3:45. I'm sure he is okay, but it will be nice to have the doctor look at him.

On to happier news! Michael went to his first Purdue basketball game on Saturday. Purdue played Ohio State and won. The game was lots of fun and Michael enjoyed most of it. He did get scared and started the cry when the crowd (as his Daddy) started booing. I think it was the first time he heard his Dad yell. Anyway, after that he got used to it and enjoyed the noise. Below is a picture of him in his Purdue gear.

Boiler UP!

Mommy Back To Work, Michael Goes To School

2008-01-11T19:30:00.000-08:00

Hello all! This is our first attempt to start a blog. We were so inspired by Liberty's blog, that we thought it would be fun to give it a try. This will be a great way to keep everyone posted on life in Indiana.

This was a tough week for me. I started back at work and Michael went to daycare at Just Us Kids. Monday was very hard, but we made it though. I had to do my best to keep from completely breaking down and sobbing. But the ladies at the daycare were so kind and really tried to reassure me that Michael would be okay. They also told me that I was welcome to come over anytime to visit or feed Michael. So Greg has been packing our lunches and we have gone over everyday at lunch. This way we can eat together and I can feed Michael. It really has made it better. Knowing that I can see him in just three or four hours has made it a lot easier to leave him in the morning.

I also received a surprise on Monday when Michael sent me flowers. They were beautiful and the card said, "don't worry Mom, I'm doing just fine". That made me feel better and I was quite impressed that he was able to order them all by himself. However, I have a suspicion that he got some help from his Daddy, when I saw the order show up on Greg's credit card. :)

Well, Michael has already melted the hearts of all of his teachers. Everyday, they give us a report card that tells us when he naps, eats, and has his diaper changed. They also tell us what his mood was. Everyday they mark that he was happy in both the morning and afternoon. One of his teachers has already offered to babysit him because she said they really like each other. As hard as it is to be away from him, it really makes me feel better to know that he is being cared for by such nice people.

Well, I better get to bed. Michael will be waking up soon...:)

Michael Ready For School

Michael After His Bath

Flowers Michael Sent to Mommy