tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26444755236900815422024-03-13T20:36:15.178-07:00Me and MineAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16248508763723778666noreply@blogger.comBlogger529125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2644475523690081542.post-83161741679489980722013-06-03T22:05:00.002-07:002013-06-03T22:05:50.720-07:004 | happy birthday Ryan<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1v2keQHezN6XqUTi8KKWgBVYRmStYaRQ23m2RTserrVuk9iKg8soliWbBDqrAJ0-MG1JAvYIiUMfUH7PCm9bnCYu77BSpfsZG0oIPr712OraALyh3zILksTngF87OE0yv66lZ48kGihLn/s1600/IMG_1044-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1v2keQHezN6XqUTi8KKWgBVYRmStYaRQ23m2RTserrVuk9iKg8soliWbBDqrAJ0-MG1JAvYIiUMfUH7PCm9bnCYu77BSpfsZG0oIPr712OraALyh3zILksTngF87OE0yv66lZ48kGihLn/s1600/IMG_1044-1.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
31 lbs</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
3 feet 2.5 inches tall</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Ryan, </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
My sweet boy, my monkey man, my super hero. You are FOUR. You are amazing and I can't believe we have had you in our lives this long. I can't remember what my life was like before you. You are my world and I love it.<br /><br />Four might be my favorite age so far- just don't mention that to Weston ;) You are the perfect amount of independent and dependent. You can get up in the morning and get some breakfast and play a bit on your own. You are can put on your own shoes and buckle your car seat. But you still let me carry you and want me to cuddle with you before bed every night. You still take naps and want me to help brush your teeth. I also want to shout from the roof tops despite the fact that this will embarrass you when you are older- you are TOTALLY potty trained. You started #1 on the toilet when you were 18 months old, it wasn't until after your 3rd birthday that you decided to wear underwear full time. Well it wasn't until last week you when you thought it would be okay to take care of your #2 business on the potty instead of in a diaper while you slept. Thank heavens that is taken care of, we all feel so liberated! We have had many celebrations and I cried happy tears. SO proud of you dude.<br /><br />You are a good friend and a good brother, you take care of everyone around you. You help out and make sure everyone is happy! Weston looks up to you so much and you are learning how to make good choices so he can grow up having a great example. Keep up the good work!<br /><br />You are about to wrap up your first year of preschool! I can't even believe it. You are almost reading and counting to 100. You love science and math and always bring home the best art projects. Our goal is to have you reading books on your own by the end of the year, you are so ready for it! It has been so great to watch you blossom. You were super nervous about being at school and it was great that Miss Kim would text me with updates and pictures as to how you were doing. I loved when I got a message that you played with someone else, that you talked a ton turning lunch time, and that you DANCED. You dance at home all the time but it took a while for you to be comfortable with dancing around other people. I am happy with the growth you have been making there it is so fun to watch.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Along with dancing you sing. All the time. About everything. You make up songs about power rangers and monsters, you sing to your food, and to your brother. We love it. You recently decided that you love beat boxing as well. After watching it on tv and hearing it on the radio you were hooked. I made a beat boxing station on pandora for you!<br /><br />Your best friends are still Yia Yia and daddy. I know I am in there somewhere ;) but I am glad you love other people too since the first year it was all about mama time. You love papa and mimi and papi too! Grandparents are a huge part of your life. We talk to one of them pretty much every day and see them all regularly. You are so blessed to have them close and to have a strong relationship with them. Daddy and I both grew up close with our grandparents and it is important to us that you and your brother have the same thing. </div>
<br />
My favorite things about you are your laugh, your dimple that is just like mine, the way you say good morning every morning on my side of the bed, the way you say lellow (yellow) your love for your taggy, the way you still like me to cuddle with you, our talks in the car and over lunch, your love of sunshine and fresh air, that you want to start going on runs with me, your deep love of restaurants and target, the way you say your prayers and help out in class at church, your logic and 2 cents about everything, everywhere, all the time, the fact that you are still a little timid of new things and take your time, how you want to grow your hair out "long like the other Ryan at school" your fondness of personal hygiene and the way you dress, and your sweet but fire cracker personality.<br />
<br />
I am so excited to see what this year hold for you little man! You are one incredible kid and I thank Heavenly Father daily that he trusts me to raise you right. We love you!<br /><br />love,<br />
mama<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Top Mommy Blogs - Mom Blog Directory" border="0" height="59" src="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/directory/images//banners/tmb-468x60.gif" width="468" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16248508763723778666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2644475523690081542.post-82794152556084442522013-05-31T13:28:00.002-07:002013-05-31T13:28:42.273-07:00Weston | 16 months<div style="text-align: center;">
It was so fun to do monthly updates the first year, then he turned 12 months and I stopped! I miss it. He is changing so much and if I dont write it down I will forget it. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNV2KuCmFhYniALVGcy6AmHbjtBe0yeAraq2Rz7MgSR-G8Ct1MeuItU64vth-JAFqq1cnT0VUU5gyASainp7VnnXLrpJ-fhTq_zp0EqABYAw66mHpQqpj9EWA0oR9sGiIVgd4EWmzGCX3C/s1600/IMG_0450-13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNV2KuCmFhYniALVGcy6AmHbjtBe0yeAraq2Rz7MgSR-G8Ct1MeuItU64vth-JAFqq1cnT0VUU5gyASainp7VnnXLrpJ-fhTq_zp0EqABYAw66mHpQqpj9EWA0oR9sGiIVgd4EWmzGCX3C/s640/IMG_0450-13.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_-pGuJMXsE6jS3Wz9-uJ2tJgznPbOxPER7uz3Wq16Zt0TTSFRIyyKMytDPhxrSEACj8qSPVdJvKwlqnLFjtmzxO_a6pDVIutAVSTZ4CqbOyiytTSYy9NPCq0bqP75dok5yvwTJKK8Gs_b/s1600/IMG_0457-15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_-pGuJMXsE6jS3Wz9-uJ2tJgznPbOxPER7uz3Wq16Zt0TTSFRIyyKMytDPhxrSEACj8qSPVdJvKwlqnLFjtmzxO_a6pDVIutAVSTZ4CqbOyiytTSYy9NPCq0bqP75dok5yvwTJKK8Gs_b/s640/IMG_0457-15.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
at 16 months</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
finally weighs 20 lbs!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
wears 12 month clothes</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
size 4 diapers since that was what I buy for Ryan</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
cloth diapers every now and then, they stink all the time no matter how I wash them so it's really ruining the fun of it all for me</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi19FKJNdNQALbkrquW6ezJJUZSwBvgHSKEIZTNheoVVrju4e4CIVul9dzNYYmItQ2AMzu8K-sx_LBAcRGzJpRp8PSuxk_5lfVJIi4epxWmmx4M6htmvJXtlc1hHqNhw8UpDHYoaiQ9aH74/s1600/IMG_0460-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi19FKJNdNQALbkrquW6ezJJUZSwBvgHSKEIZTNheoVVrju4e4CIVul9dzNYYmItQ2AMzu8K-sx_LBAcRGzJpRp8PSuxk_5lfVJIi4epxWmmx4M6htmvJXtlc1hHqNhw8UpDHYoaiQ9aH74/s640/IMG_0460-3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhArhbzwAOd5Bmi70U1tfydRt0SfwYPVnDHv4yYZLiw-5dY60LBFDc1Zz-g5Lo-jFjZBw1lG7RdBy76RO5WaQw75-4fNQUaIEgNy4CaT6VZduW7ie5YH8MQfkVqDU9uxb1H3JsKT7yS6qp0/s1600/IMG_0462-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhArhbzwAOd5Bmi70U1tfydRt0SfwYPVnDHv4yYZLiw-5dY60LBFDc1Zz-g5Lo-jFjZBw1lG7RdBy76RO5WaQw75-4fNQUaIEgNy4CaT6VZduW7ie5YH8MQfkVqDU9uxb1H3JsKT7yS6qp0/s640/IMG_0462-4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
sleeps a solid 12-14 hours every night, its heaven</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
in between 1 and 2 naps a day, naps well too. this kid is an incredible sleeper</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
HAS HAIR. I am never cutting it. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
has 11 teeth and working on the lower eye teeth- its hell for him and he's miserable</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
walks</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
runs</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
climbs</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
everywhere</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQegTob3p4HB0i2Jy6JPDnONyesFnYpCFZJThopLb1CHcMWQRYdNHuGA4T65zNeNLyEyrJBmHZ2ddDL4jDg2URmt-c9KfZb0ObEQc04VWKc9p_IxnVtN5PYXCvnkmZTtOwQAlEyAmZF3MF/s1600/IMG_0464-19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQegTob3p4HB0i2Jy6JPDnONyesFnYpCFZJThopLb1CHcMWQRYdNHuGA4T65zNeNLyEyrJBmHZ2ddDL4jDg2URmt-c9KfZb0ObEQc04VWKc9p_IxnVtN5PYXCvnkmZTtOwQAlEyAmZF3MF/s640/IMG_0464-19.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
becoming a picky eater and gets mad when I give him a sippy cup instead of one with a straw BUT still has 2 bottles of milk a day, one afternoon and one before bed. I will kick that habit by the end of the summer. he was really under weight since 9 months so they wanted me to keep it and do half heavy cream</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
favorite foods- hot dogs, cereal, oatmeal, and pretty much any dinner I make, the longer it takes to prepare the better chance he'll eat it. meaning, he likes yummy adult food</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
hates alfredo sauce??</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYFqWitpJRpapdXaC-9kZuBKuTyKbyXjyF8-pDe-eG7-jmKws1yLWZJXE7EtUYxkoL2EB9zBJtiBEGlsGgLpsP0czkBkz4464WPdCNUMxpP8-HzF3zDiR9RS-KAOnnvYeW9icyX0_bDUYR/s1600/IMG_0465-6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYFqWitpJRpapdXaC-9kZuBKuTyKbyXjyF8-pDe-eG7-jmKws1yLWZJXE7EtUYxkoL2EB9zBJtiBEGlsGgLpsP0czkBkz4464WPdCNUMxpP8-HzF3zDiR9RS-KAOnnvYeW9icyX0_bDUYR/s640/IMG_0465-6.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
says mama, baba, dada</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
signs more, all done, waves bye, and wash hands</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
has no clue where his body parts are- I am failing</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
can follow basic instructions- get me the cup, go get your shoes, toss the ball</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
tries to color with crayons, would rather eat them</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
still OBSESSED with his taggy blanket and wubanub pacifier. we started making him leave them in his bed for nap time in hopes to wean him off the pacie by the end of the year</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
daddy his his favorite, also his best friend Brie</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
loves playing with cars, balls, and random mardi gras style necklaces </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
wants to brush his teeth and wash his hands/face all the time</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi35HbdnW8XsHZrg1rftKLnpix3HanL5B8JFv5zSkKS41jwee5I3SXrAibIN_kRQ_zjsOMiVPQ_O4XeC14kd1n4aLttt8XXy-kvKEK-JfKGwoxp6TI2KTPt9vbk22F5GrEA_8tyyfjeRCqC/s1600/IMG_0469-21.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi35HbdnW8XsHZrg1rftKLnpix3HanL5B8JFv5zSkKS41jwee5I3SXrAibIN_kRQ_zjsOMiVPQ_O4XeC14kd1n4aLttt8XXy-kvKEK-JfKGwoxp6TI2KTPt9vbk22F5GrEA_8tyyfjeRCqC/s640/IMG_0469-21.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
can finally climb down the stairs at our house without giving me a heart attack </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
loves to read books</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
still riding backwards in his car seat and will be for another year or more</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I have a feeling he will climb out of crib soon :/ </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16248508763723778666noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2644475523690081542.post-61151456589880618522013-05-31T12:52:00.002-07:002013-05-31T12:56:01.004-07:00stuff ryan says vol 10<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4hEwrQHSox2_VD30hTx4t40UY9FhttmXPdAKsKlZEAgiVrSxozEOZfyXp39UwXFTHiZYq3Ao4Yl6m2Ewoy0nZOTU7s2fO96129tgO1lgeLIKOyO_vCdG_kvhYbuDm2buzHM5dTbb3ghKh/s1600/IMG_0525-9.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4hEwrQHSox2_VD30hTx4t40UY9FhttmXPdAKsKlZEAgiVrSxozEOZfyXp39UwXFTHiZYq3Ao4Yl6m2Ewoy0nZOTU7s2fO96129tgO1lgeLIKOyO_vCdG_kvhYbuDm2buzHM5dTbb3ghKh/s1600/IMG_0525-9.png" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">changing the title to stuff Ryan says.. but whatever that's not what matters.. here's the good stuff..</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">(after squeezing weston and rolling around on the floor really rough with him) oh sorry mom I thought he was my puppet</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">the girls love green, yes they do! boys like red. no one else likes the other colors.. but pink and purple and blue.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">weston makes some serious crap</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">why did you have your freaking out face (what are you talking about?) in the store, i saw your face, it went like THIS (shows me a huge smile) why did you make it do that</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">please call me Antonio, that is my new name</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">that girl on your phone, (siri) the one we are talking too, does she play music too?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit; line-height: 17px;">when I grow up I'm going to be a daddy, a rockstar and a power ranger!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 17px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 17px;">the girl on your phone said the power rangers will be here in a minute!</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 17px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 17px;">"my mom is mean.. she won't let me be a power ranger or a monster.. la la la.." (in a song) </span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit; line-height: 17px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 17px;">I would like microwaved toasted microwaved toast with </span><span style="line-height: 16.99652862548828px;">cinnamon</span><span style="line-height: 17px;"> cereal for breakfast please.</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 17px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 17px;">HURRY my baby needs a dr, check his blood pleasure! (pressure)</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 17px;">I need to have my </span><span style="line-height: 16.99652862548828px;">protein</span><span style="line-height: 17px;"> first... ya know, like sprite. </span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 17px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 17px;">will you put lotion on my nipple tattoo so it sparkles</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 17px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 17px;">I made a CD player and it only plays music I like</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 17px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 17px;">I LOVE beat boxing, it is my FAVORITE sport</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 17px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 17px;">cows lay milk..</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 17px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 17px;">says everything is "kickin" </span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 17px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 16.99652862548828px;">in the bath- "I got moves like JAGGER" then dances.........</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 16.99652862548828px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 16.99652862548828px;">OH mom it looks like you are painting the enchanted garden, here, let me show you how to paint Daniel tiger</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 16.99652862548828px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 16.99652862548828px;">Hey mom did you know Weston and I are in a club, its called the SUPER BABIES</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 16.99652862548828px;"><br /></span></span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 16.99652862548828px;"><br /><br />and now a conversation we had, for real. </span></span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 16.99652862548828px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 16.99652862548828px;">Ryan: LOOK AT MY BOOBS</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 16.99652862548828px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 16.99652862548828px;">Me: you dont have boobs, and even if you did I don't like you saying that. You know how butt isnt a nice word and we call it a bottom? Same thing, you can say breasts, chest, pecks... chest is probably best.<br /><br />Ryan: UM mom, I can't call it a chest....<br /><br />Me: why not</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 16.99652862548828px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 16.99652862548828px;">Ryan: because then you would think I was talking about water chestnuts and you would be SO confused </span></span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 16.99652862548828px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 16.99652862548828px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 17px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 17px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 17px;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 17px;">you're welcome. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<a href="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img alt="Top Mommy Blogs - Mom Blog Directory" border="0" height="59" src="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/directory/images//banners/tmb-468x60.gif" width="468" /></span></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16248508763723778666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2644475523690081542.post-78565878819138011772013-04-22T13:56:00.000-07:002013-04-22T13:57:59.664-07:00earth day<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8zNl6yiI9N6YQhKgF6YMFXx1sKB3CmSW5SAPkNK8pHziG52K91S2F8Mea27ZKE4az0YisytGbMVw_loOGI2D3F0BBOjWKfncZ6-ZqBsd5dMRyKD0kpOHPw_q6h2QGmN_ShK-TzUmnxugp/s1600/earthdayblog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8zNl6yiI9N6YQhKgF6YMFXx1sKB3CmSW5SAPkNK8pHziG52K91S2F8Mea27ZKE4az0YisytGbMVw_loOGI2D3F0BBOjWKfncZ6-ZqBsd5dMRyKD0kpOHPw_q6h2QGmN_ShK-TzUmnxugp/s1600/earthdayblog.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
photo by yours truly. please pin. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
we celebrated by playing outside. </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16248508763723778666noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2644475523690081542.post-64571247038866671452013-04-14T22:43:00.001-07:002013-04-14T22:47:20.732-07:00#goodchoicejar<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMBCgMJHfiODOcYxRFZ5CRcr1Zu-b-FruyJGAQpiLpnRzttFc2OdiYLmKZYXZLAct_iv7BFrqlrBjvE97VL_wQI-QYSkeHIUB3ymDdR1xN5Ka94AVvcx7yUaWnSDcBl-vqIkgi0O76V36E/s1600/IMG_0040-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMBCgMJHfiODOcYxRFZ5CRcr1Zu-b-FruyJGAQpiLpnRzttFc2OdiYLmKZYXZLAct_iv7BFrqlrBjvE97VL_wQI-QYSkeHIUB3ymDdR1xN5Ka94AVvcx7yUaWnSDcBl-vqIkgi0O76V36E/s1600/IMG_0040-1.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Do you guys ever feel like you are totally dropping the parenting ball? I do, a lot, usually every day around 4:30 when both kids start completely melting into emotional messes.<br />
<br />
I will admit I resort to raising my voice more often than I should... even spanking (and the crowd goes silent while someone throws rotten food at me) I refuse to raise entitled brats as brash as that sounds. I have spent my fair share around kids and teenagers the last few years and it is a sad scary thing to witness. I want my kids to have good manners, respect their elders for the sole fact that they are older than them, freely serve others, and understand that their actions big and small effect everyone around them.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFZ4NoDwMHOBBrg4UO3WK-YvOuVrXPdQNLlkSk5MoxSDHcM7wg-QHRJwUE_aCRNmz-u_sAZBGva5ZFsL9LqcWcFQls54XEBqJPLobrkZOzMN9SMpFuGmsOaovobcGM3FwfCexhvvJoZ_ND/s1600/IMG_0061-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFZ4NoDwMHOBBrg4UO3WK-YvOuVrXPdQNLlkSk5MoxSDHcM7wg-QHRJwUE_aCRNmz-u_sAZBGva5ZFsL9LqcWcFQls54XEBqJPLobrkZOzMN9SMpFuGmsOaovobcGM3FwfCexhvvJoZ_ND/s1600/IMG_0061-1.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
I want them to make good choices because obedience makes them happy and they like feeling good about it and not out of fear of the consequences from poor choices. I can dream that they will clean their rooms because they it makes them feel peaceful and relaxed after not because they will be grounded or have their phone taken away if they don't.... a mom can dream right?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVs1vLu33Zyus-0SZO3e8vJA8cn3T8eZcPafD-Lj1BKdp1ldaYiYq9pLGG-bSZQviMFxi-iN4UNi3KX11i4w4KE0QwbHLIzeccEZbSSU7XSFEqRbjZeg4qqjmltv4sE4hmNEHu25C9HtKn/s1600/IMG_0080-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVs1vLu33Zyus-0SZO3e8vJA8cn3T8eZcPafD-Lj1BKdp1ldaYiYq9pLGG-bSZQviMFxi-iN4UNi3KX11i4w4KE0QwbHLIzeccEZbSSU7XSFEqRbjZeg4qqjmltv4sE4hmNEHu25C9HtKn/s1600/IMG_0080-1.jpg" /></a></div>
So we have started the Good Choice Jar. We had a little family meeting about it tonight- the plan is for me and hubs to keep a few in our pockets or near by throughout the day, if we see Ryan making "a good choice" like clearing his plate, helping Weston, playing nicely, getting his shoes on without a fight, or even flushing the toilet he gets a marble to put in the jar. I will be handing them out in abundance the first bit to get the momentum going, anything I see that is positive gets rewarded! There are 2 reward levels, half full and full. Ryan decided on what he wants for each and is stoked, he already earned 4 tonight.<br />
<br />
I think it will also be good for ME as a mom to look for the good things during my day, and when things are really hard I can see the jar and think of all the awesome moments we had instead of dwelling on the bad. I pray it will change my view of parenting these littles. I know I will have to focus more on them to notice the good and I hope to give at least 10 marbles out tomorrow.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQavHRG9Rad5kOJjLggw9OfdvzrW_M8CbuqncYDqfaNRV_i4mmwSxoZ3sB80P6MsNHeL5zSm9OCS9mapOTrXe6JVIwzjpJIQ6n83dDnmtZu7vlKmfnqYxYyStGoIkQKsrrRBYrMWEqGHHj/s1600/IMG_0117-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQavHRG9Rad5kOJjLggw9OfdvzrW_M8CbuqncYDqfaNRV_i4mmwSxoZ3sB80P6MsNHeL5zSm9OCS9mapOTrXe6JVIwzjpJIQ6n83dDnmtZu7vlKmfnqYxYyStGoIkQKsrrRBYrMWEqGHHj/s1600/IMG_0117-1.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
We have set some strict rules for ourselves as parents because we want the jar to be solely positive, remember making good choices because he WANTS too. No threatening "if you don't do this you won't get a marble..." or taking them away for bad behavior. Sure the bad stuff will still be punished with timeouts and losing other privileges like always but I want to shift the <b>focus</b> to rewarding GOOD behavior. Kids want attention regardless so let's give them way more attention for good than bad and hopefully if will shift overall behavior. Right....? Maybe....?<br />
<br />
I posted on Instagram about it and people seemed pretty excited so I am using the #goodchoicejar if you decide to do it with your kids use it too! I can follow it on IG or twitter, it will be fun to watch. I will update with my progress as well.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5BmPaGCZCiBXJITfwDS83lzoCYVkJRprNILYDTcWt7eBdwjFCI2gdfL1q0G_9j00jG8HpxCe1lpnv8bLKNw3BFr-39wxyVQDYRbuSane42I-6noSJhXT4iUmrQQGNpzVdrhcwN9-mlTCF/s1600/IMG_1920%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5BmPaGCZCiBXJITfwDS83lzoCYVkJRprNILYDTcWt7eBdwjFCI2gdfL1q0G_9j00jG8HpxCe1lpnv8bLKNw3BFr-39wxyVQDYRbuSane42I-6noSJhXT4iUmrQQGNpzVdrhcwN9-mlTCF/s640/IMG_1920%5B1%5D.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
wish us luck!</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Top Mommy Blogs - Mom Blog Directory" border="0" height="59" src="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/directory/images//banners/tmb-468x60.gif" width="468" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16248508763723778666noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2644475523690081542.post-22669717322606663182013-04-12T23:25:00.001-07:002013-04-12T23:25:06.669-07:00taggy love<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2jA8UUoXA3W1XUDoysyHZrDT-a0hhOGpP0TzTxQW0qKPY4vdWZkZmhzlqOD9W_GMalvYZBw4hw5MoOfo_nsckkCmlHcRgOA87MhcRDPUMUFOUbxMPwx-UoTJ_5ItfOxv7wwnOTuErHHJC/s1600/IMG_1874.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="474" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2jA8UUoXA3W1XUDoysyHZrDT-a0hhOGpP0TzTxQW0qKPY4vdWZkZmhzlqOD9W_GMalvYZBw4hw5MoOfo_nsckkCmlHcRgOA87MhcRDPUMUFOUbxMPwx-UoTJ_5ItfOxv7wwnOTuErHHJC/s640/IMG_1874.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
One thing you must understand about our family is we take special blankets VERY seriously. My boys each have them and in case of fire one of us grabs the kids WITH their blankets and the other grabs the laptops.<br />
<br />
Ryan first fell in love with his blanket around 6 months. I purchased a back up, and then a 3rd back up a few months later. He started calling it tag, which turned into taggy. Now, 3.5 years later taggy is a HE and his best friend next to Grandma. He has his "favorite" which he labeled as number 1 taggy and then the others are number 2 and 3, yes he knows the difference and will inspect them all before cuddling up.<br />
<br />
The most important part of the blanket is the tag or label, without it there would be no point. He used to suck on it, now he just obsessively rubs it in between his fingers, on his feet, on his stomach, and in his ear. He also does this weird tongue sucking thing that mimics a nursing suck. He's done it as long as I can remember and will start it every time he sees his blanket, like an instinct. He can't sleep without it, he insists on dragging it all over the house and we finally said it can't come in the car with us anymore unless we will be gone for a LONG time. Twice, the tag has actually fallen off and you would have thought someone actually died in front of him. I have sewn them back on and went over it a few more times for good measure.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdmOablvakIDmKafZYrJDdLD8j7VnJBgYLJuHLCxYl7SlfoW62QTnVwRertNY3Tz6HeQdXbR3ybZNXfh17LgpzSTThK_5Za-yxLtXbw271UojPY2gzQLM4z4lFvNwnN_Wt_CzVp1RE0UUD/s1600/IMG_1799.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdmOablvakIDmKafZYrJDdLD8j7VnJBgYLJuHLCxYl7SlfoW62QTnVwRertNY3Tz6HeQdXbR3ybZNXfh17LgpzSTThK_5Za-yxLtXbw271UojPY2gzQLM4z4lFvNwnN_Wt_CzVp1RE0UUD/s640/IMG_1799.JPG" width="474" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
When Ryan was about a year old I bought another one KIND of like his tag, thinking he would take it as an acceptable replacement. Wow was I wrong. I held onto it, I actually used the fuzzy brown side for newborn photos way back in the day. When West was born I pulled it out of a baby box and had it near by but didn't really use it as he was swaddled or slept in our bed (and you aren't supposed to use blankets, right) When he was a little older I just like cuddling with it and him so it made more appearances I actually called it "Weston's taggy" one day and hubs looked at me like I was crazy. I think his words were "not THAT again" Eventually he became pretty fond of the blanket. When he was 7 months old I found him in his crib, with the taggy part, rubbing it on his feet just like Ryan does. And that was that.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
Weston is obsessed with his blanket just as much as Ryan is his, he loops his fingers in the fold of the tag and rubs it on his face when he's tired. He gets really grumpy if I leave it in his bed after nap and must have it whenever he's sad. He is well aware that Ryan and him both have their own special blanket and he will always give Ryan's to him if he finds it. It's like they understand the sacredness of "the taggy" and it is respected in our house. You don't have to share it with anyone, don't you dare take your brothers away from him, and if your brother is sad find his taggy for him.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqa9OKD_lQqajqGGhg09n_NPPRi6kKWJsmD9C-o6R3Ez8hHOlTaoHwMkDu8VeI67TG6upjYv0mtDV-occJ50kC1yRst37NED9auZXrf-LdbqhVVB9PmI0eqN-gSvquzqOrZW5QXvI_Q3ws/s1600/IMG_1873.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="474" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqa9OKD_lQqajqGGhg09n_NPPRi6kKWJsmD9C-o6R3Ez8hHOlTaoHwMkDu8VeI67TG6upjYv0mtDV-occJ50kC1yRst37NED9auZXrf-LdbqhVVB9PmI0eqN-gSvquzqOrZW5QXvI_Q3ws/s640/IMG_1873.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Do your kids have a special blanket, lovey, or animal they just have to have?<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Top Mommy Blogs - Mom Blog Directory" border="0" height="59" src="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/directory/images//banners/tmb-468x60.gif" width="468" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16248508763723778666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2644475523690081542.post-41873512137232043802013-04-12T20:15:00.002-07:002013-04-12T20:15:33.323-07:00I packed away the toys<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRYiGctNv8PoZzsy9RFB7_dUqPxRjJCHxEJI4DSIpvsJ94TDDw6YZQ2pqWJRTdyLenenR4UksKYLweD7BiMiCZTEPtkWt2r1hja4aaLrB6TsZm0oyTml2OwY98sNBxHoLD7AS5N-fezrxC/s1600/IMG_1590.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRYiGctNv8PoZzsy9RFB7_dUqPxRjJCHxEJI4DSIpvsJ94TDDw6YZQ2pqWJRTdyLenenR4UksKYLweD7BiMiCZTEPtkWt2r1hja4aaLrB6TsZm0oyTml2OwY98sNBxHoLD7AS5N-fezrxC/s640/IMG_1590.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
I recently came across an article entitled <a href="http://www.livingwellspendingless.com/2012/09/14/why-i-took-all-my-kids-toys-away-why-they-wont-get-them-back/" target="_blank">"Why I took all my kid's toys away (and why I wont give them back)"</a> and it really resonated with me.<br />
<br />
While we don't have nearly the amount of toys as other families, we still have far more than we need. My kids (Ryan in particular) are overwhelmed by it all and actually don't PLAY with any of it. The things we do have are organized into baskets or tubs and they just dump it all out, throw things at each other and then cry when they step on something hard. After that fun is done they whine at my feet that they are bored.<br />
<br />
Ryan has even told me before that he is done with toys, they are for babies and Weston can just have them! I can't remember the last time he actually played with or did anything with the toys in our house.<br />
<br />
He spends his day at my side, doing what I do. He helps me cook, do dishes, grocery shop, plays on the computer, or watches a movie. He loves "activity" type things like games, puzzles, crafts, play dough.. those are my saving grace!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaZDDY_LqLSSHuamyRlC7VkLLplLAiv180KytVrlcEmhYPbQCC2Onz9shA2VoXXjtYVRjTXkBHoRau6TOIXzJ0aTSI1hU6XyPJbxIlCRVPxRAIdUnjvzPjxSdqSg0M_PfLI-2FluHY9ZP5/s1600/IMG_1806.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="479" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaZDDY_LqLSSHuamyRlC7VkLLplLAiv180KytVrlcEmhYPbQCC2Onz9shA2VoXXjtYVRjTXkBHoRau6TOIXzJ0aTSI1hU6XyPJbxIlCRVPxRAIdUnjvzPjxSdqSg0M_PfLI-2FluHY9ZP5/s640/IMG_1806.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I was at my wits end for sure. I was sick of the messes, the complaining, and wasting money trying to buy things I think they would like. I told friends and family not to get toys for any holidays! For Easter he got glow sticks, a book, and bubbles and it was perfect. For birthdays I am requesting books and craft supplies.<br />
<br />
Anyway, back to the TOY issue. In a fit of rage (okay just a really frustrating day) I got a huge tub and packed away 80% of the toys and donated a ton of barely used toys and old books to our church nursery. I kept out a few "sets" of things, including the only thing that kind of gets played with- a small tub of kids meal toy type things.<br /><br />So far they havent complained once, the house stays cleaner and when they open the toy cabinets they are not overwhelmed. I slowly started getting out one thing at a time from the packed away stash. Yesterday it was the kitchen and play food. Today it was the trains. You guys, they actually PLAYED with them, and for a while too! It was nuts. I was happily surprised by it. And the second they get bored and move on we clean it up together. I also noticed that Ryan can clean up MUCH easier. Even with it being organized before he had an impossible time cleaning up simply because it was just too much for him to take in. When nothing else is out, it was easy for him AND Weston to put all the trains in this one tub right here. And they did it happily.<br />
<br />
I am happy with the choice we made to simplify our life a bit. Society makes it seem like we have to buy our kid's love, we have to have the latest toy revolving around whatever favorite tv show of the moment (we did it with power rangers, no judgement here) I also know that I get excited over new toys and want to buy it all for my kids. News flash- THEY DON'T NEED IT. Raise your hands if your kids play longer with an empty cardboard box than anything else! Yeah, us too. Just say it with me "no more toys."<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLTwCZ8sSXLQhS5o_xym0_EJ5qaO0vdwJd98UN_Hfx4KJgkLn9qu0iyK6UT6VK6-DC1NxTkl0lsuElyENwiL6H__l8q4hBnGGNDmZW6WgUxxtjN7nvAa1ZtyEo80fZfA9_eqzRSj3CwY4H/s1600/IMG_1862.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLTwCZ8sSXLQhS5o_xym0_EJ5qaO0vdwJd98UN_Hfx4KJgkLn9qu0iyK6UT6VK6-DC1NxTkl0lsuElyENwiL6H__l8q4hBnGGNDmZW6WgUxxtjN7nvAa1ZtyEo80fZfA9_eqzRSj3CwY4H/s640/IMG_1862.JPG" width="474" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
follow us on IG @lauren_alberts </div>
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Top Mommy Blogs - Mom Blog Directory" border="0" height="59" src="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/directory/images//banners/tmb-468x60.gif" width="468" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16248508763723778666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2644475523690081542.post-61563946608582624232013-04-06T00:04:00.000-07:002013-04-06T00:04:38.773-07:00living with purpose<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Wow, never in my blogging life have I had a lull like the last... oh, 5 months or so. I just kept saying that I had writers block or didn't know what to write about, or even just checking in saying "we are still alive, here is a picture." </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdb8qw94hdodqtuwrr86QlXsutu9fpHMXdHidSddMhEF0vQg4E35y5q_9NROOWTmWbDgxjdSMDWax6dP8awlWl9Jr6UmqvZwi_lILZOlGB16r00_wiRADVYtw-Ty5BhWg-VQfE5lICF-ED/s1600/IMG_9722-12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdb8qw94hdodqtuwrr86QlXsutu9fpHMXdHidSddMhEF0vQg4E35y5q_9NROOWTmWbDgxjdSMDWax6dP8awlWl9Jr6UmqvZwi_lILZOlGB16r00_wiRADVYtw-Ty5BhWg-VQfE5lICF-ED/s1600/IMG_9722-12.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkZv3WE_dC9mMbbnhNuMWXu_LGI6Hl8bDVeSUazjAs_6fOMHDnmoYL3YYuitefDAPc0nazClMGKAkORS7iDKYsj4KKaT3kx7ic25cOf7k1ehj-jwSKYlsFQeNE80Jlwm1qQOJHy4khZJyb/s1600/IMG_9736-15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkZv3WE_dC9mMbbnhNuMWXu_LGI6Hl8bDVeSUazjAs_6fOMHDnmoYL3YYuitefDAPc0nazClMGKAkORS7iDKYsj4KKaT3kx7ic25cOf7k1ehj-jwSKYlsFQeNE80Jlwm1qQOJHy4khZJyb/s1600/IMG_9736-15.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: left;">Hard truth is, there were things I couldn't really talk about, and I knew if I sat down at the keyboard that it would be a huge fight with myself to not just write my brains out. I wanted to scream from the roof tops what I was going through because somehow that helps. Maybe its that the weight of it isn't on my shoulders anymore and out there in the open, or its the validation I receive. No Lauren, you aren't crazy and yes your feelings matter... I don't know. So instead of writing about light hearted, happy things I just stopped all together. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>And because I know you are wondering... it's marriage and its impossibly difficult.</i><br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcDv9kjx0dL22huC0kwyCgGdiycHLrEtoggIZJ8A82k4S5tu-aTkysnVNxaJ8BzEfLjY3XlgcCJ-pUzxthpnYfqTPaDPPVwAopr79jfe4gngMFhQgKsUMEu1jEVDatG28MYseo9uFg5Apr/s1600/IMG_9731-14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcDv9kjx0dL22huC0kwyCgGdiycHLrEtoggIZJ8A82k4S5tu-aTkysnVNxaJ8BzEfLjY3XlgcCJ-pUzxthpnYfqTPaDPPVwAopr79jfe4gngMFhQgKsUMEu1jEVDatG28MYseo9uFg5Apr/s1600/IMG_9731-14.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
But I messed up. I shouldn't have stopped. I should have kept writing. I was missing moments in my kids lives, I wasn't capturing their growth and their deepening bond for one another. While I was sitting over here in my corner licking my proverbial wounds they were out there living life and blossoming. I know that sounds weird- that I was missing moments. But let me tell you something about myself. When I blog regularly and keep my camera close I am a better person. It makes me live intentionally. Moments aren't staged so I can photograph and write about them, everything happens naturally... but I am forced to <b>notice</b> them. To stop and take in the scene and appreciate the little moments and the beauty that is this life. <br />
<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHf9DrzZdWg-OKxp-7Kbl8B-bNaUz5poVsNqS86dvWWcnX5ioIKlFKyVCGwPgkCFW2DV-rRxGmi7AI-NrWUpTLd8oZhNyvA1Pwg-0c33mT6WQEcAWBw2OvbfVBWfSZRl9VvP4wZWbSBP78/s1600/IMG_9739-16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHf9DrzZdWg-OKxp-7Kbl8B-bNaUz5poVsNqS86dvWWcnX5ioIKlFKyVCGwPgkCFW2DV-rRxGmi7AI-NrWUpTLd8oZhNyvA1Pwg-0c33mT6WQEcAWBw2OvbfVBWfSZRl9VvP4wZWbSBP78/s1600/IMG_9739-16.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhML2gx5em3sVWWYhKdUPqWwpjfyT7j1pyoQJUE91PR1WMUICkBXNV-nNhKFRDxz3UpSO1RtvA6ZninfRk3F4iGsED2-x4p2X4-KoSFKU9uO7PC5rBYU_dWjVOr9yyNd7oduICh-sUD92T-/s1600/IMG_9746-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhML2gx5em3sVWWYhKdUPqWwpjfyT7j1pyoQJUE91PR1WMUICkBXNV-nNhKFRDxz3UpSO1RtvA6ZninfRk3F4iGsED2-x4p2X4-KoSFKU9uO7PC5rBYU_dWjVOr9yyNd7oduICh-sUD92T-/s1600/IMG_9746-1.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br /></div>
<i></i><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i><i>"One of my favorite things about photography: that moment of "church" at my desk when I'm editing photos-- given the chance to stare at a moment for much longer than it actually lasted. Noticing things that might have been ignored. seeing the people and things I love with a different perspective. The art of picture-taking has truly made me a more observant, grateful, life-loving human. Amen." </i></i></div>
<i>
</i><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>- Kelle Hampton</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcKTVJFp7XVIiVDO6kTtJLjQoMxiROxtv_6-vz7Yi2j5xtOvOQXvc3V2he0iEPDryft70NNvS8HsbHn5euvxMZWV-lixbWnYXmhG9cBJH75NrGKed7iWueQYXURE6WZK1hXS09oUX9Il49/s1600/IMG_9972-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcKTVJFp7XVIiVDO6kTtJLjQoMxiROxtv_6-vz7Yi2j5xtOvOQXvc3V2he0iEPDryft70NNvS8HsbHn5euvxMZWV-lixbWnYXmhG9cBJH75NrGKed7iWueQYXURE6WZK1hXS09oUX9Il49/s1600/IMG_9972-1.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
So I was just living hour by hour, waiting for the next nap or bed time. I wasn't taking it in, I wasn't letting my kids mold me and change me. I was just stuck, frozen in my frustration and pain. I couldn't see past it. Before you get worried, I still took care of them. They were fed, bathed, cuddled, driven to activities, and played with. But I was an empty shell. My body went through the motions, my face smiled and my eyes lit up for them all while I was crying inside. It was exhausting keeping up with both sides. The inside and the out.I guess I am sitting here and nothing has noticeably changed but in my heart I am striving too.<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKyhjXnTBwxdZHqy0np66KQ3nZmobVFj26R0asFPEMkscUNCn680bT6_9n3NpbF_0F13C1QlgTA0RbAuRCGCAPIhM1aG2VORn3zGroMJBOWgTYk0nXVJq6MFH9anoBs18C1WiPL6rFLPDQ/s1600/IMG_9912-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKyhjXnTBwxdZHqy0np66KQ3nZmobVFj26R0asFPEMkscUNCn680bT6_9n3NpbF_0F13C1QlgTA0RbAuRCGCAPIhM1aG2VORn3zGroMJBOWgTYk0nXVJq6MFH9anoBs18C1WiPL6rFLPDQ/s1600/IMG_9912-1.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
In February and March I took maybe 5 photos combined with my big camera. I did use IG a lot but its not the same. I don't get fired up by the weight in my hands and the rolling of the shutter speed. This last week I photographed our day and while I am pretty rusty at photographing my own kids at home it was a healing experience. Like Kelle said, I had my church moment editing those photos.<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCxztpqZJ7qCpzvBBndexfCHLlcltas3ddMNLAJlwYxmmh4osWiXDDTWYySqimTe90sbLJw83wEKMiOaukLzRMDJ407xkNU7fapVZMuBit7pJ_dBaTjpit2UcgI4wRU50kQvUOP6p4jSg7/s1600/IMG_9931-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCxztpqZJ7qCpzvBBndexfCHLlcltas3ddMNLAJlwYxmmh4osWiXDDTWYySqimTe90sbLJw83wEKMiOaukLzRMDJ407xkNU7fapVZMuBit7pJ_dBaTjpit2UcgI4wRU50kQvUOP6p4jSg7/s1600/IMG_9931-1.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzOQ_JeF9CWKCBAI6l6pycvFjppREiEjHtA-Y1BErwJ6Rw04LiHuoj166DzKTMe5Y16D2XX9-GAEP4LT7FFGg5FITS441kmxnrDKmbiJr9HKemC72dJYfuncSdNTAwFZO7b5VYBvd1rfpR/s1600/IMG_9942-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzOQ_JeF9CWKCBAI6l6pycvFjppREiEjHtA-Y1BErwJ6Rw04LiHuoj166DzKTMe5Y16D2XX9-GAEP4LT7FFGg5FITS441kmxnrDKmbiJr9HKemC72dJYfuncSdNTAwFZO7b5VYBvd1rfpR/s1600/IMG_9942-1.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
My kids area beautiful, smart, full of love and life. They are incredible. I can easily tell when I am photographing them because I am in the moment, with purpose. I plan have more of these unbridled moments with them so be prepared for the photo overload that is coming your way.<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh86TkE2KxhZtxmeoTAFo5N1WHN-yJ3GZxKuspYEzHHpzBgu4utqdEeWS-2TGV0b84kSaMrtYx5THp0E5EtRhqerzQsz99bCUPiOukdBnl3kV7wesAPum5EzCRrtaVwNJpKuUuL4IsbHUnA/s1600/IMG_9951-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh86TkE2KxhZtxmeoTAFo5N1WHN-yJ3GZxKuspYEzHHpzBgu4utqdEeWS-2TGV0b84kSaMrtYx5THp0E5EtRhqerzQsz99bCUPiOukdBnl3kV7wesAPum5EzCRrtaVwNJpKuUuL4IsbHUnA/s1600/IMG_9951-1.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
And now for the things I have missed. Weston will be 16 months old in April. He is running, climbing, starting to sign back to us, and is obsessed with his brother/best friend. While he is still mild mannered most times he is showing us what youngest siblings are all about. He wants to be heard and have his feelings validated and if you don't.. if he thinks he is being pushed aside for any reason, boy will let you know. I find his overly dramatic tantrums laying face down on the floor sweet and welcome the excuse to validate his feelings and have a quick cuddle on the couch.<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNHIWYONTtGWPpedHgSWCoRKczF5Y00hWJtAjh-a2jRIYTKcOXdeGgiOjr4X_Xa8z7CYrPWCcnb3sfIBacKznSHyReP5PKoyx5r3vgvr2Tla0AawrHVdkynZTKTQ2APFsUoVK9leMj_DPj/s1600/IMG_9986-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNHIWYONTtGWPpedHgSWCoRKczF5Y00hWJtAjh-a2jRIYTKcOXdeGgiOjr4X_Xa8z7CYrPWCcnb3sfIBacKznSHyReP5PKoyx5r3vgvr2Tla0AawrHVdkynZTKTQ2APFsUoVK9leMj_DPj/s1600/IMG_9986-1.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Ryan is a welcomed breath of fresh air. He is thriving in so many ways. He is back in school, he is learning to read, he is finally getting the fun of "imaginative play" and wants to be he-man/power ranger/spider man at all times. He has even changed his name to Antonio (the gold power ranger) He makes me laugh and is sensitive to my needs and suggests we cuddle and take a nap every now and then. He keeps me on my toes, reminding me that stupid and hate are not nice words and lets me know what I should use instead. He prays with intent. He realizes his role as a big brother- a teacher, a friend, an ally, a companion, and an example. He will soon be celebrating his fourth birthday and is requesting a night at the Olive Garden with his grandparents instead of a big party. We are fine by that.<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7U1JIFwMAAwCPbn9WDKhy2m2OJdLnzcC6Ql2tTNvc0JyjpxvQ2MZ6jrVTQv46aU5nuw70okYx8hd97__tXyZ3JqxxhvZyQ0rPso0ziPNLL6zIaPTm_SX4zzKpLpbc4oHGZ6vVJAxHIPwP/s1600/IMG_9992-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7U1JIFwMAAwCPbn9WDKhy2m2OJdLnzcC6Ql2tTNvc0JyjpxvQ2MZ6jrVTQv46aU5nuw70okYx8hd97__tXyZ3JqxxhvZyQ0rPso0ziPNLL6zIaPTm_SX4zzKpLpbc4oHGZ6vVJAxHIPwP/s1600/IMG_9992-1.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
They are best friends. I knew they would be. While they have stubborn spats they love each other deeply and flow together well. Their personalities balance wonderfully and they are better off together than apart. While Ryan looks forward to sleep overs at Grandma's house they are both very pleased when its over and they are together again. I can't imagine one with out the other. Even 2.5 years apart, they are a packaged pair.<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFeSnCRozoIQgMWvsEPKVItIqvA5AmqxodSEy8SGbLsHVZ2TKRC8AZSGMW2R6joJoSsR3a35kY_GoQTisQNmpKMTm2yApqNsXA8fjjQJLFcy0u-IX6ADZUedQ67R3x844QgoTkg5sLEVwC/s1600/IMG_0018-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFeSnCRozoIQgMWvsEPKVItIqvA5AmqxodSEy8SGbLsHVZ2TKRC8AZSGMW2R6joJoSsR3a35kY_GoQTisQNmpKMTm2yApqNsXA8fjjQJLFcy0u-IX6ADZUedQ67R3x844QgoTkg5sLEVwC/s1600/IMG_0018-1.jpg" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16248508763723778666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2644475523690081542.post-36993659274883144202013-02-26T17:57:00.002-08:002013-02-26T17:57:36.466-08:00the hair cut. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsxpvgNUeKMFjUMQH2W4HDfKAR2gvsDhfxyu-5tqIqpbtS6kcaa9KiemeIr0u-iK5CYe9skxAB3nG7ot07P79IwzMGb8vzdN1Wb1LKx4f2OwY7RdUcZ7cfIVeH1AbGn9ovPwm5khDpJ0c/s1600/Untitled-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsxpvgNUeKMFjUMQH2W4HDfKAR2gvsDhfxyu-5tqIqpbtS6kcaa9KiemeIr0u-iK5CYe9skxAB3nG7ot07P79IwzMGb8vzdN1Wb1LKx4f2OwY7RdUcZ7cfIVeH1AbGn9ovPwm5khDpJ0c/s1600/Untitled-1.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
If we are friends on facebook or you follow me on instagram (@lauren_alberts) then you've seen by now that I had a little hair cut....<br />
<br />
To be honest I am freaking out. I knew I wanted it cut and I knew I wanted it short but the mirror shock has still not worn off. I can't see a reflection of myself without cringing a little. It's not the exact style I was hoping for and maybe that is the problem.. or maybe that I feel like a little elf boy. Either way, it's just hair and it will grow back. Hopefully it will be long, lush, and beautiful again someday.<br />
<br />
I decided to cut it because it never grew back after Weston, I lose my hair twice- during my first trimester and then again after I deliver. It was all dead and falling out, it had to go!<br />
<br />
In other news- Weston has Eczema! He started breaking out in a rash about 2 weeks ago and I took it in to get looked at. So now he is just a huge greasy blob of lotion and can't eat eggs every day for breakfast (makes it worse for him)<br /><br />Ryan is obsessed with the Thrift Shop song- don't worry he's only heard the clean version.<br /><br />I booked another wedding this summer with my photography business- happy dance, and I bought a new watch to celebrate.<br /><br />And that's it- nothing else too exciting. We are boring these days, and boring is fine by me.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Top Mommy Blogs - Mom Blog Directory" border="0" height="59" src="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/directory/images//banners/tmb-468x60.gif" width="468" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16248508763723778666noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2644475523690081542.post-12076868215166713012013-02-05T22:45:00.002-08:002013-02-05T22:45:38.560-08:00mom brain<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLP_M8FeCEVFkT1H0-8NUZfLIKaNpBjZv0VKBD8NpmhCNSYdOQdl3qUJy9fGMK0PdDMPeD1hGOKuUcpH6D66FZUnYunMuTpp_8ZH1LAFFw6BnoI5LoIUwIrpiIePcC7Zf_8L_sfdGxWvM/s1600/IMG_7278-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLP_M8FeCEVFkT1H0-8NUZfLIKaNpBjZv0VKBD8NpmhCNSYdOQdl3qUJy9fGMK0PdDMPeD1hGOKuUcpH6D66FZUnYunMuTpp_8ZH1LAFFw6BnoI5LoIUwIrpiIePcC7Zf_8L_sfdGxWvM/s640/IMG_7278-1.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI2bjcrsayBsXWl5N0W9gXdBBH6PpUURcFmAbesGrQ4tQdPeteBEic22ffjraPQwlcv3IKuBMiefJ2VetTgsdT5b61yVKZReG6LXv0Wd_a0MIGyxN5ZqMi428lVrTziARiX2QUwoUo8aU/s1600/IMG_7273-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI2bjcrsayBsXWl5N0W9gXdBBH6PpUURcFmAbesGrQ4tQdPeteBEic22ffjraPQwlcv3IKuBMiefJ2VetTgsdT5b61yVKZReG6LXv0Wd_a0MIGyxN5ZqMi428lVrTziARiX2QUwoUo8aU/s640/IMG_7273-1.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I have heard the term "mom brain" for a while, before I had my own kids, and before I had this dreaded symptom of becoming a parent myself. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I feel like I have no working brain cells anymore! I forget everything, if I don't make a note of it it will slip my mind- from play dates to picking up something from a friends house. I forget to bring extra diapers and wipes when we leave the house, I leave half the pile of library books at home. Its ridiculous! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I forget things I say to people thus making my friends think I have short term memory loss- yup you already told me that... 3 times... sorry. I think it's a combination of the lack of sleep for 4 years, the nagging for more mac and cheese and "no, not THAT power ranger episode" that have driven me into this mom brain fog. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I pray that someday, it will lift and I will resume life as a normal person. Does anyone else feel this way? Please tell me I am not the only one. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Just so you don't worry- they are fed, dressed, mostly happy, and cuddled every single day. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And if you are a photography client friend- I reserve a special section of working brain cells just for you. All of that works flawlessly. Have no fear. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Top Mommy Blogs - Mom Blog Directory" border="0" height="59" src="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/directory/images//banners/tmb-468x60.gif" width="468" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16248508763723778666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2644475523690081542.post-40086950180839398572013-01-20T23:04:00.000-08:002013-01-20T23:04:42.258-08:00just pictures<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0Q-JOl9R4DuFhFtPe_WDbQTnhDUK39HsQ_qUi24vpjJNKjPkMs32CVqSTJUGfXrMvVhSZ2MkU3xY8PlYFm8pfWWPvcLm0gXA_LJOg0rgh6b0IuAUQrPQNwykvn3zwxsegjRXVHc4A2qM/s1600/IMG_7250-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0Q-JOl9R4DuFhFtPe_WDbQTnhDUK39HsQ_qUi24vpjJNKjPkMs32CVqSTJUGfXrMvVhSZ2MkU3xY8PlYFm8pfWWPvcLm0gXA_LJOg0rgh6b0IuAUQrPQNwykvn3zwxsegjRXVHc4A2qM/s1600/IMG_7250-1.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaT37N3VpHH3vGRKa6lgTZihH-MJ-vBtvklPUBqvWbENQn2wHI0ajULAfoqnia3XPOHPpIt94OQhK2nLzkedisK6-HRAuQnu4WQjukYYmScGarqj26wdXivs8lVACKUar7CXlJHk9PVXo/s1600/IMG_7253-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaT37N3VpHH3vGRKa6lgTZihH-MJ-vBtvklPUBqvWbENQn2wHI0ajULAfoqnia3XPOHPpIt94OQhK2nLzkedisK6-HRAuQnu4WQjukYYmScGarqj26wdXivs8lVACKUar7CXlJHk9PVXo/s1600/IMG_7253-2.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
I just love them so much.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<a href="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Top Mommy Blogs - Mom Blog Directory" border="0" height="59" src="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/directory/images//banners/tmb-468x60.gif" width="468" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16248508763723778666noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2644475523690081542.post-35906906609905487902013-01-20T15:32:00.003-08:002013-01-20T19:07:34.887-08:00ryan-isms vol 9<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfNO35nvM1j3aTr8RmATV2I-aqUxCanpixyvbUJmoYQM51DfMOEx39wjgETVlQsWbjT1K5u9EcOf6xOKXnsLvwe8191DPkJNmuO8FB9Lysh-4RPGVLI_ozYpg209QmZc2UclT8-Z57mIU/s1600/IMG_5982.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfNO35nvM1j3aTr8RmATV2I-aqUxCanpixyvbUJmoYQM51DfMOEx39wjgETVlQsWbjT1K5u9EcOf6xOKXnsLvwe8191DPkJNmuO8FB9Lysh-4RPGVLI_ozYpg209QmZc2UclT8-Z57mIU/s640/IMG_5982.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">you are SO hot mommy! (referring to my temperature but it made me smile)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I have something very important to tell you, I live here now (at grandma's house, he has been on this kick for a week)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I widdy like my hodo bed</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Why are you dressed like a princess mama?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">SO tell me about your day.. no the other day, the one called Friday.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Go down that way, I am TOTALLY freaking out (in target) </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I am pumping! I am pumping chocolate milk for the sad babies so they won't be whinny.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">(6am, he comes into our room bawling) <br />I can't find my rock! I found one in my dream last night. I was at panera, the one that is really far away and there was a really big tower too, I found it for yia yia and then I lost it! I looked everywhere in my room! I am so sad! <br />(and then he cried for an hour) </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Lets do the spoons (spooning/cuddling in bed)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Why are you pointing your boobs at me? (I was changing, time to be done with that!) </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Who is that girl? You should get her number... (I was watching tutorials on the computer)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I used to play with toys when I was a baby, I am a big kid now so I dont need them anymore.. I just work on the computer and eat food instead. Weston can just have them.</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="line-height: 17.98611068725586px;">My tummy is so huge, that means I am going to have a baby. I'm having a boy baby, because I am a boy. And he's coming out after Weston's birthday, but hes just coming on his own, not with the hospital. (future home birth advocate!)</span><br />
<span style="line-height: 17.98611068725586px;"><br /></span>
<span style="line-height: 17.98611068725586px;">Is it going to be the GREEN holiday tomorrow? (st patty's day)</span><br />
<span style="line-height: 17.98611068725586px;"><br /></span>
<span style="line-height: 17.98611068725586px;">I don't want to watch the sexy zoo anymore (64 zoo lane)</span><br />
<span style="line-height: 17.98611068725586px;"><br /></span>
<span style="line-height: 17.98611068725586px;">(midnight, hear little feet running down the hall) I need a towel, I just threw up in my bed and I need to clean it up. :( </span><br />
<span style="line-height: 17.98611068725586px;"><br /></span>
<span style="line-height: 17.98611068725586px;">Are going to instadam that? ps everyone go look up the #ryaninstadams for his adventures. </span><br />
<span style="line-height: 17.98611068725586px;"><br /></span>
<span style="line-height: 17.98611068725586px;">Show me her picture on facebook (for everytime a babysitter comes over so he can see who it is) </span><br />
<span style="line-height: 17.98611068725586px;"><br /></span>
<span style="line-height: 17.98611068725586px;">Who are you texting? </span><br />
<span style="line-height: 17.98611068725586px;"><br /></span>
<span style="line-height: 17.98611068725586px;">I NEED to have stick hair and my daddy spray (cologne)</span><br />
<span style="line-height: 17.98611068725586px;"><br /></span>
<span style="line-height: 17.98611068725586px;">Oh that looks really good on you.. </span><br />
<br />
Okay West, you get to be the caboose!<br />
<br />
That one over there looks like a dream, the others look like circles. I love pancakes.<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<a href="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;"><img alt="Top Mommy Blogs - Mom Blog Directory" border="0" height="59" src="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/directory/images//banners/tmb-468x60.gif" width="468" /></span></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16248508763723778666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2644475523690081542.post-24483425332932123462013-01-15T21:24:00.004-08:002013-01-20T14:57:29.441-08:00growing up is hard | a letter to Ryan<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-px6bkMIqP3fnUXNpjYCcZOAICnN0IdCWy8thm6IxZsiPjse5kEY4wTGeJHZZrvEYnwt-J2C35f02e7ZOymeiuMtQl1mTpeL5GqCCabBXbBsmUS3faHXYLvKtztZI0Uom1rinrdHEGAs/s1600/first+day+of+primary.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-px6bkMIqP3fnUXNpjYCcZOAICnN0IdCWy8thm6IxZsiPjse5kEY4wTGeJHZZrvEYnwt-J2C35f02e7ZOymeiuMtQl1mTpeL5GqCCabBXbBsmUS3faHXYLvKtztZI0Uom1rinrdHEGAs/s1600/first+day+of+primary.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">first day of sunbeams at church</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
My dear monkey man,<br />
<br />
I have had this letter to you in my head, it plays itself over and over the past year. I hope I can put into understandable words the things I am thinking.<br />
<br />
You are going to be four years old this year, in about 4 months actually. And its hard for you. While there are some things about growing up that you like- getting to watch power rangers and walk in the parking lot, there a lot of things you don't like at all.<br />
<br />
A lot of times you tell me you are still two, and too little to do the thing requested of you. You still want to sit in a high chair and use a sippy cup, you havent given up diapers completely, you'd rather be carried around, need to be cuddled to sleep every night, and insist on having help with pretty much everything (going potty, getting dressed, feeding yourself) if I let you, you would still sit in a bumbo and chill in a baby swing and/or jumperoo. yes you still fit in all of those.<br />
<br />
I know you are able and are really good at all of those things. I know it is because you fear growing up and getting older. When you were a baby you had mommy to help you with everything and be with you for practically every moment of your life. Now that you are older, and you have a little brother I am no hands on as much. I request that you go get your own shoes from the basket in the hall and to sit at the table and eat a sandwich whole instead of cut into little bites because I am busy with a baby. I am sorry that I can't still do everything for you and that sometimes you feel left out.<br />
<br />
But my son, let me tell you something. Growing up is incredible and you will love it. Now that you are bigger we can do so many fun things together. We paint, make forts, stay up late for movie and pop corn, have tickle fights, have lunch dates, and so much more. One of my favorite things we do together is just talk. I love laying in your bed with you and talking about life. We talk about everything from your favorite toy of the moment to what you want to be when you grow up (toy swords, and a scuba diver!) I feel like I really know you so well, and not just because I am your mom but because I have spent so many hours getting inside your head trying to understand you and the personality you were blessed to be born with.<br />
<br />
Each year you will have more and more exciting things to look forward too! You will get to play sports, learn an instrument of your choosing, get to be in cub scouts and boy scouts, date, drive a car............ I can go on forever! While life is hard and growing up certainly has its rough spots- that is one I am still learning, life is something to be celebrated and enjoyed. I want to show you that there is something great in each phase of your life and fabulous things you can do.<br />
<br />
Just like the baby stage was awesome, and the toddler stage was cool... this big kid stuff? It rocks, trust me and you're going to be GREAT at it.<br />
<br />
Love,<br />
mama<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9Aot-RcSdu8KLUf-ffFNEOXGVHmHgXV3AzOCf5phxnFYo_B9kJoQlmxjRgPE1qJ0dTyRWW1xsnkXBU8FQWsgAC54fLG0iUn3qB1xJmUyuxt7J0NUP1xvHHAptK_44ZRrCdnB3BFeJYE0/s1600/IMG_5785.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9Aot-RcSdu8KLUf-ffFNEOXGVHmHgXV3AzOCf5phxnFYo_B9kJoQlmxjRgPE1qJ0dTyRWW1xsnkXBU8FQWsgAC54fLG0iUn3qB1xJmUyuxt7J0NUP1xvHHAptK_44ZRrCdnB3BFeJYE0/s1600/IMG_5785.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Top Mommy Blogs - Mom Blog Directory" border="0" height="59" src="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/directory/images//banners/tmb-468x60.gif" width="468" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16248508763723778666noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2644475523690081542.post-29868586794008444982013-01-04T20:49:00.002-08:002013-01-04T20:49:34.752-08:00writers block<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5IGVpR5QLVTpI6aSbyjYiIs1xYTuG7VggeFt3v1si5bVzQm43KaFaB8y5-D0du3RxvNJvi8aHu6MHgjKceCZqIOrJXVAS0d2kQWsBsq0ZBdAzQz9f6BiwHSOvCh_D2cautLqaY7NpWJs/s1600/IMG_6355.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5IGVpR5QLVTpI6aSbyjYiIs1xYTuG7VggeFt3v1si5bVzQm43KaFaB8y5-D0du3RxvNJvi8aHu6MHgjKceCZqIOrJXVAS0d2kQWsBsq0ZBdAzQz9f6BiwHSOvCh_D2cautLqaY7NpWJs/s640/IMG_6355.jpg" width="424" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I have 11 posts in my draft folder right now. Now 11 may not be that many to a full time blogger who plans to finish all of those by the end of next week but for me, it is 11 attempts to break my writers block. 11 times I sat down and then failed.<br />
<br />
I think part of it is because I have so many things to say and I can't even begin to organize my thoughts. I am actually contemplating doing one of those bubble style spread sheets from grade school where you put all your thoughts and ideas down then piece them together.<br />
<br />
Let's start with something I know how to do- talk about my babies.<br />
<br />
We decided not to do a huge birthday bash for Weston's 1st birthday. It goes against everything I love and believe in for little kids but I couldn't pull it together this year and I need to keep reminding myself he doesn't care one bit. We did have cake though.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5VFClvAXEqWcIOTI-YgRhUeGnxNjCwyv5D5rUrgPzXH0u2GLZHf8TvTk4elpAjSjHJej9zyUsfJK5jx58S5XShHCdj0bXWT9MzMtc-SPN3Takk1-lR_-fZu5wtED1RoBFWIO4lmfTTRc/s1600/IMG_5922.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5VFClvAXEqWcIOTI-YgRhUeGnxNjCwyv5D5rUrgPzXH0u2GLZHf8TvTk4elpAjSjHJej9zyUsfJK5jx58S5XShHCdj0bXWT9MzMtc-SPN3Takk1-lR_-fZu5wtED1RoBFWIO4lmfTTRc/s640/IMG_5922.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3yvVJ_Jf0T10QgduVU63feZp1_AUmFMaiNTT_I53M4RRlxxbtyr6UrhPnVjZTZJEcBOI24kg1beurI7cJk2bOPy2_aCDgi9LOpZNqwX4yWWuCQCras7xlK-OOS_VUFO9tjltsBB3f9Y4/s1600/IMG_5916.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3yvVJ_Jf0T10QgduVU63feZp1_AUmFMaiNTT_I53M4RRlxxbtyr6UrhPnVjZTZJEcBOI24kg1beurI7cJk2bOPy2_aCDgi9LOpZNqwX4yWWuCQCras7xlK-OOS_VUFO9tjltsBB3f9Y4/s640/IMG_5916.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Poor baby had the same thing we all had (and by all I mean the entire country!) the nasty cold/flu bug that went around at christmas. He was SO SICK on his birthday and spent most of it crying in my arms. You can tell by his little puffy eyes :( </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
He has started perfecting the art of tantrums and they are so flipping adorable and sad at the same time, he will get upset over something and throw his hands on the ground, make a loud cry, and then collapse in a ball of tears- only to be over it 10 seconds later and playing with toys or laughing at his brother. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
He hates to be tossed in the air or even held out away from your body! Every time he starts to shake and breathe really fast then grips onto you like his life depends on it and will not let go. Its so crazy! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
He is the biggest cuddle bug again, he realized that yes it is totally awesome to be adventurous with your brother but it is equally great to be in your mama's arms. I love this. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVn_OJsCkKYBKbS_SS2pvr1KEsk5oVSEuIEQzMt4Lpi1j7PBfT49nu6HjEQ8gIc_JhC2iXbn7T2GV5kDt8GBbymD7wWNM2nenYw41BUSNncazgQdVIY7rbSUkQV3anpRmI4H7ZPIWAOww/s1600/IMG_6346.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVn_OJsCkKYBKbS_SS2pvr1KEsk5oVSEuIEQzMt4Lpi1j7PBfT49nu6HjEQ8gIc_JhC2iXbn7T2GV5kDt8GBbymD7wWNM2nenYw41BUSNncazgQdVIY7rbSUkQV3anpRmI4H7ZPIWAOww/s640/IMG_6346.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Oh Ryan, where do I begin. He is seriously awesome. I LOVE his age. I am working on a whole other post about getting older, but for now I will just say that he is my favorite person to be around. Yes we butt heads a fair amount but he is just so fun. We have great conversations- that actually have a purpose and go back and forth! We make jokes with each other and laugh til our sides hurt. He is smart and cool. I love it so much now I can't wait what this year will be like with him turning FOUR. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
And that's all I've got tonight....... so tired.........<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Top Mommy Blogs - Mom Blog Directory" border="0" height="59" src="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/directory/images//banners/tmb-468x60.gif" width="468" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16248508763723778666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2644475523690081542.post-21534337611374826722012-12-28T00:06:00.002-08:002012-12-28T00:06:33.490-08:00a year in photos. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8Vf6AnXq3_qn9X08U8Khkl3kJB4mxGqQAuTas2KsS5bxub2qfyXcQ9bD-Fi1FTwf0anA80w-YYE4kp8Qc2nmyRmB89JJSiF0_CeZAl0OnSU7u_p_s3NTQEWN1_goKy07mAol2_ii9REs/s1600/year+in+photos+websize.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8Vf6AnXq3_qn9X08U8Khkl3kJB4mxGqQAuTas2KsS5bxub2qfyXcQ9bD-Fi1FTwf0anA80w-YYE4kp8Qc2nmyRmB89JJSiF0_CeZAl0OnSU7u_p_s3NTQEWN1_goKy07mAol2_ii9REs/s1600/year+in+photos+websize.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Here ya go.. a photo a week of the first year of Weston's life! I started out with big plans to do a blog photo a week but that only lasted 11 and then I stopped posting. That didnt mean I didn't stop taking them. I am SO proud of myself this year! LOTS of photos, only one of these was from my phone too :) I can't wait to get this printed. I love how he is the same, yet he has changed SO much at the same time.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Top Mommy Blogs - Mom Blog Directory" border="0" height="59" src="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/directory/images//banners/tmb-468x60.gif" width="468" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16248508763723778666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2644475523690081542.post-172602291934552772012-12-28T00:03:00.004-08:002012-12-28T00:03:52.835-08:00Weston is 12 months old<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9GtgAvoriSoD8ch6V7oBR4pXZOfdToX2gDcHaNCKcjM3tLO9Ob91t_7kd5JmQnax50FfluJ3agvlscLpvNmUm99xmdFjyj8iHSvGT2adU9OOJ4kYnC0NGAhL01oed54sxz2cD_ZU7GbQ/s1600/IMG_1659.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9GtgAvoriSoD8ch6V7oBR4pXZOfdToX2gDcHaNCKcjM3tLO9Ob91t_7kd5JmQnax50FfluJ3agvlscLpvNmUm99xmdFjyj8iHSvGT2adU9OOJ4kYnC0NGAhL01oed54sxz2cD_ZU7GbQ/s1600/IMG_1659.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
YOU ARE ONE! </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
holy cow it went by fast... too fast. I just wrote your birthday letter but wanted to do the traditional monthly update. I will probably go to every other month or something like that now. We'll see. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
12 months looks like...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
dont have stats, dr apt next week. I am guessing 19 pounds?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
wearing 12 months clothes, still a little big</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
wearing size 4 diapers, still a little big OR BG cloth</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
sleeps 12 hours a night waking up once or twice to nurse- totally okay with that</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
take 1 long or 2 short naps a day</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
go to bed around 7:30, same time as ryan. thank you!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
getting picky when it comes to food!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
weaning off formula and going to whole milk in the bottle</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
thought I would be done nursing but you are loving it again so still do that a few times in a 24 hour period</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
love grapes, cheese, yogurt, and crackers</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
favorite toys are cars and balls!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
trying to read more books but you could care less, silly boy</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
just started paying attention to the TV- likes baby Einstein </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
loves the wubanub pacie and your taggy blanket. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I found you in your bed one day- you took off your socks and was rubbing the tag on your toes just like Ryan. you guys are so crazy</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
will continue to rear face in the car as long as possible- hopefully making it another year! you dont mind it one bit and love our graco click connect 40 car seat. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
love to wear hats or play with mommys head bands</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
daddy is the favorite</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
you actually slept in our bed a bit! you roll around too much and got the boot though</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
you have had a few colds lately, I hate seeing you sick</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
you kind of understand that when I pull out the camera you should smile at me</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
you are a climber. you try to get on top of everything, can go all the way up the stairs and try to climb out of your crib- its on the lowest setting now so it should hold you a while longer</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
using the signs for more, all done, and milk</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
says mama and dada along with other babble. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
trying so hard to WALK. you take steps here and there but still nervous to totally take off. we are ready though</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
you have 6 teeth, 4 top, 2 bottom</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
you dance when music comes on and you laugh at me when I sing</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
you are getting into everything! I need to block off the kitchen because you try to get into the garbage and empty out the drawers and cabinets. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
still so happy all the time! </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl9ZCeeYYWM52kUxBkV8SlIfNdGxmkRDwJHMu6nQeYuY9t5-sW7slE82KBNVfqkF_5dpCQQnTXGzmBz67luvb4nxXmwAPbi6xjl75b7DDpyf23sdHQg_Bzjv1sAxRVSKkLomzsJHD_Z8w/s1600/IMG_1642.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl9ZCeeYYWM52kUxBkV8SlIfNdGxmkRDwJHMu6nQeYuY9t5-sW7slE82KBNVfqkF_5dpCQQnTXGzmBz67luvb4nxXmwAPbi6xjl75b7DDpyf23sdHQg_Bzjv1sAxRVSKkLomzsJHD_Z8w/s1600/IMG_1642.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<a href="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Top Mommy Blogs - Mom Blog Directory" border="0" height="59" src="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/directory/images//banners/tmb-468x60.gif" width="468" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16248508763723778666noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2644475523690081542.post-77700029208061035622012-12-27T23:50:00.002-08:002012-12-27T23:50:37.078-08:00happy birthday weston t. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: left;">My dear sweet Weston,</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Tomorrow is your first birthday! A year ago from right now I was sitting with your dad and your brother out to lunch, counting each contraction and getting anxious and excited for labor to pick up. It would be almost 24 hours later until <a href="http://www.meandmineblog.com/2012/01/weston-teuscher-birth-story.html" target="_blank">I finally held you in my arms </a>but you were well worth the wait my love. The way you came into this world is the way you have been these past 12 months. Magical and calm all the time. I love you so much for that gift you bring into our home every day. Your birth was one of my favorite experiences of my life and something I relive in my mind regularly.</div>
<br />
Everywhere we go people stop to smile at you and you always smile back. You make everyone happy! I hope that is a talent you will be able to use throughout your life. When you were first born I noticed <a href="http://www.meandmineblog.com/2012/08/my-magical-baby.html" target="_blank">your magical ability</a> to calm the mood and bring the spirit into our home and into my life. That can be such a blessing for you in your life and your future family.<br />
<br />
I want you to know how much <a href="http://www.meandmineblog.com/2012/01/meeting-your-best-friend.html" target="_blank">you are loved by your brother</a>. From the moment I told him I was pregnant he has loved you. He would lay next to me every day and rub my growing belly and talk about you. When you two met for the first time it was brotherly love at first sight. Ryan wanted to hold you and cover you in kisses right away. You are his best bud and I think you are pretty fond of him too. You both spend your days playing with toys together and cuddling under your favorite blankets.<br />
<br />
Your dad and I love you so much too of course. We sit and talk about you a lot, you came into our family when we weren't expecting it and you have been such a wonderful surprise the whole time. You are perfect for our family and we are so happy you belong to us forever. I can't believe you've been here a whole year already, it feels like it's been a month but then at the same time I can't remember my life before you.<br />
<br />
Some of my favorite things about you are your laugh, you sound like a machine gun when you get going and its hilarious! I love your big toothy grin, I love the way you use sign language and make up your own stuff, I love the way you love your blanket and the tag just like Ryan does. I love how you are independent but still like to be cuddled. I love that you a great sleeper and eater! I love how you can sit and drive matchbox cars back and forth forever. I love how much you love to throw balls. I love that when daddy comes home you crawl as fast as you can down the hall to great him- he is your favorite person. I love how much you love your grandpas. and I love your golden brown hair thats finally starting to thicken up. I love your big sparkly dark blue eyes. I love everything about you.<br />
<br />
While I wish you could stay my cuddly, nursing baby forever, I am looking forward to watching you grow up and see how your personality will blossom and see the great things you will accomplish in this life! You are my light, baby boy and I am so proud to be your mama.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Happy birthday my perfect baby boy! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Love, </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Mama</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" height="480" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/-4rjNxJ4PPg" width="640"></iframe><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Top Mommy Blogs - Mom Blog Directory" border="0" height="59" src="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/directory/images//banners/tmb-468x60.gif" width="468" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16248508763723778666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2644475523690081542.post-79959571412936861822012-12-14T21:24:00.000-08:002012-12-14T21:24:08.533-08:00things i want to remember<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgThzZ3WEdiFzwN8fJQudUeIuA1ZU92id49LXoNa_D7MWdesn_Z-wRbtjnjZvKfqcKINLETKY1DkGRozj7-IdD9hIt64IBOApO-TU5rnMW_ZYmQgIoVTMNWCQlJrku3DpLLbfaj0eVUzPA/s1600/IMG_1267.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgThzZ3WEdiFzwN8fJQudUeIuA1ZU92id49LXoNa_D7MWdesn_Z-wRbtjnjZvKfqcKINLETKY1DkGRozj7-IdD9hIt64IBOApO-TU5rnMW_ZYmQgIoVTMNWCQlJrku3DpLLbfaj0eVUzPA/s1600/IMG_1267.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
ryan tries to convince me that power rangers is a quiet nap time show, because they get the bad guys ya know.<br />
<br />
ryan waking up to eat a corn dog at 12:30am and chatting me up about how its been a long day<br />
<br />
weston crawling over to nurse, instead steals food out of my mouth<br />
<br />
westons tells me yes and no by shaking his head<br />
<br />
thinking weston was clapping at me.. he was just signing more for a cracker<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Top Mommy Blogs - Mom Blog Directory" border="0" height="59" src="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/directory/images//banners/tmb-468x60.gif" width="468" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16248508763723778666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2644475523690081542.post-63183488669316581652012-12-11T22:29:00.001-08:002012-12-11T22:29:14.799-08:00working photographer?Woah, I am a professional photographer. I work daily, I make money, I provide for my family. This is actually happening. I can't believe it.<br />
<br />
But then again I can. I have worked my tush off the past few years and really hit it hard since May when I got my business license. Its a full time job and is so rewarding. I love being pushed and stretched in my craft.<br /><br />I am still not where I want to be, but I think I will feel that way in 50 years. Its always evolving and changing. My dream is constantly being redefined.<br />
<br />
Here are some of my favorites.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRTk6xT0OdE3mOPu8_3sGEhLBqlZZz-8ti4V66NqmKI8dDfyqf26G6YWB5n37lGfydcYlTSA7AbRf7zb6K4KOsw-LnSAwHfKPuYPmmDUHMRSKVu3zJJVRn4iygX_V9hU2rKNTFbJGyotA/s1600/4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRTk6xT0OdE3mOPu8_3sGEhLBqlZZz-8ti4V66NqmKI8dDfyqf26G6YWB5n37lGfydcYlTSA7AbRf7zb6K4KOsw-LnSAwHfKPuYPmmDUHMRSKVu3zJJVRn4iygX_V9hU2rKNTFbJGyotA/s1600/4.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD_bB9JAREDe0x8HW9e-OrpueEHSUm8rpDrl6GCemmIAU0yAt3eCIFkXpCtfFS6uLyUARTyssbJmaX2o5_MgxWHNMSAo9uLx6nn3XGNbBM-N-dkhWd_K1YRb804lsOHtVezKWXixQOVSA/s1600/IMG_3145a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD_bB9JAREDe0x8HW9e-OrpueEHSUm8rpDrl6GCemmIAU0yAt3eCIFkXpCtfFS6uLyUARTyssbJmaX2o5_MgxWHNMSAo9uLx6nn3XGNbBM-N-dkhWd_K1YRb804lsOHtVezKWXixQOVSA/s1600/IMG_3145a.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmoSB_TFvByaZhT9P8TEQmpd4rW5wbf-3V6PcQ4bYmTIGXWW7QC63ur08iRrzglqbhD7s4-8Uo_NFnCCRFO4sFqgdF-UoVXBHGSad2cmoPvMBKiAWojWvoryU9wq36aKbMUCsWIYImB58/s1600/Untitled-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmoSB_TFvByaZhT9P8TEQmpd4rW5wbf-3V6PcQ4bYmTIGXWW7QC63ur08iRrzglqbhD7s4-8Uo_NFnCCRFO4sFqgdF-UoVXBHGSad2cmoPvMBKiAWojWvoryU9wq36aKbMUCsWIYImB58/s1600/Untitled-3.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB_PydVFgEIC2-wm5ncVm35fAelS4gCGQDfKD-iQE1mqIhdFSdMu_SxJdKAfCX4HIJuMOWO0epAul0Ug5bxNpCgsTFVtxJvMyLbCI4nWlnTE08vFlTpWjCG7Vlrc05qje9jfy9czdvVlE/s1600/IMG_8160.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB_PydVFgEIC2-wm5ncVm35fAelS4gCGQDfKD-iQE1mqIhdFSdMu_SxJdKAfCX4HIJuMOWO0epAul0Ug5bxNpCgsTFVtxJvMyLbCI4nWlnTE08vFlTpWjCG7Vlrc05qje9jfy9czdvVlE/s1600/IMG_8160.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_0qCguPdPcBeqBIwdP9FhdwszCejcEh8QQWF-RMe9QounLr6UXSRhPzF2DV9RkotZTJzMIzmPB_v8pu3D6rgK2IDfzANfin_P9RRE6h2LUZAXL0iTbfGJzER25rOl2SuCFYd30Lu9inY/s1600/blog3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_0qCguPdPcBeqBIwdP9FhdwszCejcEh8QQWF-RMe9QounLr6UXSRhPzF2DV9RkotZTJzMIzmPB_v8pu3D6rgK2IDfzANfin_P9RRE6h2LUZAXL0iTbfGJzER25rOl2SuCFYd30Lu9inY/s1600/blog3.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGYPFE3OyK99dV-3dtkY2dSFLsKoHQMaZ3WGD8yThyphenhyphenu3CfW56rrWgPYw7SntWH6O-2WL4CmJX8nQ1fVmko4cAaBcIoVUK-asNr6_n2VOu-UveqZeeErW_N3Ubmkl4Dsw4xpgg5zbG797Q/s1600/IMG_9619.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGYPFE3OyK99dV-3dtkY2dSFLsKoHQMaZ3WGD8yThyphenhyphenu3CfW56rrWgPYw7SntWH6O-2WL4CmJX8nQ1fVmko4cAaBcIoVUK-asNr6_n2VOu-UveqZeeErW_N3Ubmkl4Dsw4xpgg5zbG797Q/s1600/IMG_9619.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
if you are in the portland or seattle areas and would like to work together find me here-</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.lulabellphotography.com/">www.lulabellphotography.com</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://facebook.com/lulabellphotography">facebook.com/lulabellphotography</a> I'd love the like ;)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
instagram @lulabellphoto</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
lauren@lulabellphotography.com</div>
<br />
<a href="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Top Mommy Blogs - Mom Blog Directory" border="0" height="59" src="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/directory/images//banners/tmb-468x60.gif" width="468" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16248508763723778666noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2644475523690081542.post-12637577168674808142012-12-11T22:08:00.002-08:002012-12-11T22:08:47.309-08:00I love his eyes.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I should be working on getting ready for his birthday, ya know the count down posts, the video, the birthday party shtuff.. I don't want to. I am ignoring the fact that he is almost 1- maybe he will just stay little forever if I do that?<br /><br />I love him so much. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRcVynNIODq2oY7xH9WriZD224_cN7CLtbFhMzKpJUdrrSARlOlzmpFDs6rbLyuRGndo6MPdZaA9r4HRRV-JJ7GPCUWWYrrNExefkWgN2bRZlMSkemahOOt9tQAg-rbsIrdAJvS0qgmvg/s1600/IMG_0989.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRcVynNIODq2oY7xH9WriZD224_cN7CLtbFhMzKpJUdrrSARlOlzmpFDs6rbLyuRGndo6MPdZaA9r4HRRV-JJ7GPCUWWYrrNExefkWgN2bRZlMSkemahOOt9tQAg-rbsIrdAJvS0qgmvg/s1600/IMG_0989.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm_91Z8vlNphQaiEGNAbBUomFWZ3UQh1QY98oTbXY3gwb55yvv93eVdTH4V-6yO08LaiWkq9oiRZjzkW6cZoh-tgyJ6pPe2dgnHhTKmSoKN7vROxNegwkFya06n-KrRQZ0RYt_Uix8nLY/s1600/IMG_1285.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm_91Z8vlNphQaiEGNAbBUomFWZ3UQh1QY98oTbXY3gwb55yvv93eVdTH4V-6yO08LaiWkq9oiRZjzkW6cZoh-tgyJ6pPe2dgnHhTKmSoKN7vROxNegwkFya06n-KrRQZ0RYt_Uix8nLY/s1600/IMG_1285.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzaLzZZK8wRkVkbUfN-zkqavswxr85PxPBnf39f4cEpnYhtYDODAydBOYaz0FHoe_vhBA93uzZSpcieiwr16HeSB9uhcNw_ILuVFDRc6yn5vhsix6gtTXZNflFwyrX__yHpYvlbMkPPiY/s1600/weston.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzaLzZZK8wRkVkbUfN-zkqavswxr85PxPBnf39f4cEpnYhtYDODAydBOYaz0FHoe_vhBA93uzZSpcieiwr16HeSB9uhcNw_ILuVFDRc6yn5vhsix6gtTXZNflFwyrX__yHpYvlbMkPPiY/s1600/weston.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Can we just talk about his eyes for a second? Oh my gosh. They are big and beautiful and I can't get enough of them. </div>
<br />
<a href="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Top Mommy Blogs - Mom Blog Directory" border="0" height="59" src="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/directory/images//banners/tmb-468x60.gif" width="468" /></a><br />
<div>
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16248508763723778666noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2644475523690081542.post-67121418373744152432012-12-05T23:35:00.001-08:002012-12-05T23:35:16.189-08:00Weston is 11 monthsOops, getting to this one a little late aren't I! but it's the first time I've been late all year so I still get a high five, right?<br />
<br />
Here we go, 11 months old! Actually almost ONE year old. We are in the same month as his birthday. I am a mess, someone come hold me. I hate that we are here already, I wish time would have slowed down like I begged it too every month this year. I am not ready for him to be this big and its breaking my heart. Why do they have to grow up so fast?<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDnDi9CEVbMmG8UzeCToYq-nPaVaSnXyISyFu6p99Ge3DtEBBJqyzVgpT3_O9pQoaxZmvF6IyV-xn5a-FsYpQCscSwweuFeoKkMxSCA3kqsh8JEezh_G4TmKiCe4NzneI-_ear14qrkFo/s1600/3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDnDi9CEVbMmG8UzeCToYq-nPaVaSnXyISyFu6p99Ge3DtEBBJqyzVgpT3_O9pQoaxZmvF6IyV-xn5a-FsYpQCscSwweuFeoKkMxSCA3kqsh8JEezh_G4TmKiCe4NzneI-_ear14qrkFo/s1600/3.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
and isn't that the cutest outfit you've ever seen?! thank you old navy.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
But he's pretty freaking cute though, and totally awesome to boot. Here is what 11 months is like- </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
weighs about 18 pounds</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
wears 9 or old navy's 6-12 month size clothes with room to grow</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
cloth diapers or size 4 because Ryan still wears them and I am too cheap to buy 2 different sizes when they are close enough</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
goes to bed around 7:30 and gets up around 8am. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
wakes up once to nurse, I love it and will let him do it for a while longer</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
sleeps in his crib and occasionally in our bed after the midnight nurse</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
in the middle of transitioning himself from 2 naps to 1. not sure how i feel about this one yet! he stays awake and plays during his first nap and then takes a really long one in the afternoon but he seems to still need that time in the morning, even if hes awake</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
still has never had a night away from me, I'm not ready for that one at all</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Nurses morning and night, maybe once during the day. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Taking away the formula bottles because he is starting to hate them</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
eats 3 full meals and snacks of real food </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
starting to get picky with what he eats! (bahh, advice needed!)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
loves water in his sippy cup, still never had juice and I am happy about that</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
still isn't walking on his own</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
turned everything into a push toy, including kitchen chairs and walks around with them</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
loves to empty kitchen cabinets</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
busts up laughing when he THINKS he will get tickled, its the best</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
makes snorty faces at me when he doesnt like something</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
shakes his head no</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
calls me mama</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
obsessed with his blanket and pacifier</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
loves baths</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
HATES socks and shoes and pulls them off within seconds</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
getting cuddly again and wants to be held a lot</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
has 4 top teeth and 2 bottom teeth</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
thinks getting his nails clipped is the worst thing ever</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
likes to wrestle with Ryan</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
loves to have his picture taken (gets a huge cheesy grin when I pull out my camera)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
surprisingly stays away from the christmas tree! win!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
we are all his favorite people this month! he is happy with mom, dad, and Ryan all the same</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I can't wait for his birthday party! I am putting together some fun stuff to celebrate his first year and excited to watch it all come together. Keep your eyes out for some sneak peeks! </div>
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Top Mommy Blogs - Mom Blog Directory" border="0" height="59" src="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/directory/images//banners/tmb-468x60.gif" width="468" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16248508763723778666noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2644475523690081542.post-67394798302929309512012-11-18T22:31:00.001-08:002012-11-18T22:31:18.973-08:00countdown to 1<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwI7xGOjbC3OELys2x4koDrvhNY0PgjYrFcBf_b3SfZzIBL9ILkRwGnUxnJ0521n9xVTi8KW1PJ2UtehHBR0Jyj5CrtxCfLhaG-ccQlPvzn9DHxgsyLDhD-BPFGajNvxbjL65j7jLCYJQ/s1600/blogsize.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwI7xGOjbC3OELys2x4koDrvhNY0PgjYrFcBf_b3SfZzIBL9ILkRwGnUxnJ0521n9xVTi8KW1PJ2UtehHBR0Jyj5CrtxCfLhaG-ccQlPvzn9DHxgsyLDhD-BPFGajNvxbjL65j7jLCYJQ/s1600/blogsize.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
6 months of Weston for your enjoyment tonight. I am so excited to collage his entire year! I haven't done any themes or stuck with photographing him on a specific day of the week/month, BUT I have been really good at picking up my DSLR this year and taking tons of pictures with him. I have at least one a week his whole life. I love watching the changes, big and small in my little guy. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I will have a huge print of this when it is completed in December and unveiling it at his birthday party after New Years.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<a href="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Top Mommy Blogs - Mom Blog Directory" border="0" height="59" src="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/directory/images//banners/tmb-468x60.gif" width="468" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16248508763723778666noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2644475523690081542.post-52571416691265217232012-11-18T00:40:00.002-08:002012-11-18T00:40:09.283-08:00half birthday interview<iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" height="480" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/9SXjHV4_WgM?rel=0" width="640"></iframe><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Top Mommy Blogs - Mom Blog Directory" border="0" height="59" src="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/directory/images//banners/tmb-468x60.gif" width="468" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16248508763723778666noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2644475523690081542.post-83296913404968536252012-11-18T00:35:00.001-08:002012-11-18T00:35:19.022-08:00the belly shake I don't even know.... <div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I also didn't realize I was going to get such a show when I started or I would have moved, I shot this on my 7D with a 50 mm lens, it was my first time doing video!<br /><br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" height="480" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/REK5DX3IEeA?rel=0" width="853"></iframe>
<br />
<a href="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Top Mommy Blogs - Mom Blog Directory" border="0" height="59" src="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/directory/images//banners/tmb-468x60.gif" width="468" /></a></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16248508763723778666noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2644475523690081542.post-29682519330120964962012-11-18T00:29:00.001-08:002012-11-18T00:29:09.108-08:00almost weaned?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjen8WFho5Y4Rw-Vrfk2-AYj91uT-u-jmozfaYl-swy3-0cbfEoLC3PLl__nupnme9a6N4ZQ7zxqJkPMH7QMB8X7Ter17odLNY1prpMVEmk5rX6qr0e-hNFLbGR3ktIz2FDMmh9Z2tTlvQ/s1600/IMG_9759.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjen8WFho5Y4Rw-Vrfk2-AYj91uT-u-jmozfaYl-swy3-0cbfEoLC3PLl__nupnme9a6N4ZQ7zxqJkPMH7QMB8X7Ter17odLNY1prpMVEmk5rX6qr0e-hNFLbGR3ktIz2FDMmh9Z2tTlvQ/s1600/IMG_9759.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I happily breastfed Ryan for almost 18 months and expected to do the same with West, however with a super distracting brother around and not enough quiet alone time to devote to it we are losing steam. I have also gotten 2 periods already which I didnt get for over a year with Ryan and my body can't make milk and ovulate at the same time I guess. I have struggled with a good milk supply for a few months and keeping him full enough on me and table food alone. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I started adding formula which he happily took and slowly, almost without me noticing we are down to only nursing twice a day- morning and night. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I am actually really sad about this, I wish we would keep nursing longer but I really think that our days are numbered here. I am not going to stress myself out trying to up my milk supply and just let it rides its course and try to make him cuddle with me still. But I will say here and now, I don't like it one bit!<br /><br />I wish he would stay my little baby a while longer. I realized today that his birthday is almost a month away and it's time to start planning his party! I decided on a theme and I am excited to start pulling things together and share with you the fun details.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCM65I-ZaPkeuTwF8DDHibgM9jAX2v3DyHjXQsvV2IG9jBoL2QhIfn0nQqsjzrNKy3vZHc20PDg20ZK8N13Bjt3Y3KmdBYSpVQwrsgCZWoX5qFup3cqvcVPIvnKXGkWN7lkuHVVtDWPjQ/s1600/IMG_9765.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCM65I-ZaPkeuTwF8DDHibgM9jAX2v3DyHjXQsvV2IG9jBoL2QhIfn0nQqsjzrNKy3vZHc20PDg20ZK8N13Bjt3Y3KmdBYSpVQwrsgCZWoX5qFup3cqvcVPIvnKXGkWN7lkuHVVtDWPjQ/s1600/IMG_9765.jpg" /></a></div>
<a href="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Top Mommy Blogs - Mom Blog Directory" border="0" height="59" src="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/directory/images//banners/tmb-468x60.gif" width="468" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16248508763723778666noreply@blogger.com0