Roll baby Roll

Joey can roll both ways and WILL roll across the room if you let him :0)

This boy

is my springtime in winter....

is growing up much too quickly....











Loves Go-Gurts, Macaroni & Cheese and Scooby-Doo

lots going on

But just wanted to share this cute alien

I think every almost 7 mos old boy needs one...love the face and eye! I picture it to be covered with teething drool soon!

Seriously Funny

I love a mom who can find humor in most things her kids do....

Check out the header of Michele's blog...Love it!

So long

Since I blogged...what to say??
The boys have been great. Joey is teething again we think and has another cold. We are all fighting a slight bug -I blame this crazy MN weather-cold in the am...warm in the aftn.

Last weekend I was able to finally clean the screen porch and hang Joey's swing up. Yesterday Jack pushed him in it. It was a fun family moment..and I was able to run around doing chores while Jack entertained his bro...love that!!

Also got a few flowers planted. The gas/formula/diapers cost is cutting into my flower budget so we are keeping it minimal this year. I will once again be sporting the best WEED garden in the tri-state area -come over and check it out.

Joey started on solids recently. At first he wanted to just suck and chew on the spoon but has finally mastered it I think. He figured out if he gives the spoon back..he gets more yum-yums!
It is SOOOO messy though. Forgot about that part!
A good excuse to buy more cute bibs!..or ask Ma-mma Joan to sew some more!

(note to self..ask mom to sew bibs)
This holiday weekend we are hanging out on the home front.
Sat night I am invited to attend a bachelorette party..woah..havent been to one in forever and I am thinking I will be the oldest one there! Bring on the fun old school style!
Can anyone out there suggest some good drinks for me..I am boring and usually just order Honeyweiss beer or Cap'n Morgan cokes.

I am participating in a consginment sale May30-June1 at the Eden Prairie Ice arena.
Fresh Threads Consignment is the sponsor..hoping to sell a bunch of stuff and maybe find some treasures for Jack or Joey. I have a lot of work to do for it yet.

How about that American Idol finale! I stayed up and watched the TIVO of it..dang that FOX for cutting off the ending..I had to go online to see David Cook had won! Hooray-I liked him best.
Who do you think should have won?

finally sunshine

Jack's latest fascination...playing house..it has been a favorite in the past and he has rediscovered it lately..Dora and Diego moved in last week.

morning surprise

7:20am..breakfast in bed.

Everything tastes better when made by your husband, it is presented on a tray while you stay in bed and your 3 year old helps you eat it!

having your 3 yrd old write MOM on the envelope: priceless

mamarazzi homework

I am a frequent poster on the mamarazzi forum..trying to learn more about my DIGI rebel xTi camera and all its abilities and functions.

Joey makes for a wonderful model on a daily basis..

Jack has figured out he can just make silly faces everytime I point the camera at him.

I submitted these 3 pics for a contest/homework at mamarazzi -the task was to use a low apeture (2.0 or lower) and take a close up, mid range and full body shot of your kid and try to get the Blurry background..here is my submission

Rain, rain go away

...but not until my mom gets some pics of me in my new rubber boots!!

great weekend

It was a busy weekend but productive and fun!

Friday night my mom drove down in the rain to stay over.

My goal was to get Joey's nursery/bedroom cleaned up and ready for him to move in. He has been sleeping in our bedroom in his carseat in a basinett. The carseat was good for keeping him upright to help with the breathing/coughing troubles he had this winter.

It was "dump day" in our town...one of my favorite days right behind xmas eve! We got rid of a bunch of junk and I was not one bit sad to see it all get crushed in the garbage truck..next year I am bringing cookies for the nice man who unloads my crap!! Now I might be able to finally get our 3 season porch looking decent!

I finally put up the wall words I ordered for the boys rooms. (Pictures to come)
Sat night my brother and his girlfriend (who I adore-Hi Jill!) came down and we all went to the Kentucky Derby party at the golf course.
Jack was in heaven cuz he rode over to the course with his Dad in the golf cart. It turned out to be a nice day afterall..they had predicted snow on sat am! YIKES! Luckily we woke up to nothing!

Sunday, Daddy played in a tourney a few hours away so I decided to be super -mom and take the the boys shopping. We went to USA baby to test drive a Peg Perego Pilko3 in Mod verde (green!)- I wanted to see if it truly could hold both boys at once...sadly..no way. I still love the green color but it is a bit pricey to be a 2nd stoller- I am looking for something lightweight to take on our trip to NY...and then to be my easy mall stroller.
Last night surfing I found this one...which always has a strong reputation but..no snack tray?Any of you have one of these? Are they really that great?

Anyways...we then went to the BIG STORE...IKEA! Jack loved playing with the toys and I love all the cool colors and good deals. I had a short list of items to accessorize Joey's room and we found them all..I managed to squeeze all of it in a cart with Jack riding in the basket part of the time..He didnt seem to mind being surrounded by rugs and blankets and picture frames.
I bought these goodies :

red shelves for books
storage thingee??-looked cute.may go up in the toy room in the loft.
this floor lamp for Joey's reading nook
these round rugs...in orange, red, yellow and blue-for both Joey and Jack's room
I may use this rug in Joey's room..have to try it out first
some picture frames for our room and some poster frames for Joey's

I cant wait to get it all put together!
Once we made it through the store I promised Jack an ice cream cone at the end!

then we headed over to MOA to pick up a gift card for Grandma S. Because it was just across the hall from Barnes and Noble I really spoiled Jack and let him BUILD A BEAR!
and he picked out this one ...the cheapest one and added the sound "I love you"
then proceeded to talk to his bear while we waited to have it stuffed.:

Jack: "Hi bear...do you want to be stuffed?"
whisper, whisper
Jack: "Mom, luv bear says he wants to be stuffed"
Mom: " ok- honey -we will do that then"
whisper whisper
Jack : "Mom, luv bear says he is glad I am taking him home because he was scared"

He didnt want any of the over priced outfits for luv bear...just the tennis racket and balls...somehow I didn't think they were really for the bear and I had visions of small tennis balls flying all over our living room..but I let him buy them anyway.
Pushover Non -that's me

I cannot tell you how cute he looked walking thru the mall clutching onto this bear-it made him go backward at least 1.5 years in my eyes. (of course no camera with me)

We then had a nice dinner out with the in laws to celebrate Mother's day early. I love the salad bar at Ruby Tuesday's-but I wouldnt recommend the paremsan shrimp dish...blah.

Tonight Non gets to sit outside the pre-school for 3 hours waiting to sign up Jack for the fall morning session. Rumor is the afternoon session is already filled up and only 20 kids will be allowed to sign up for the morning session.
I figure this is a 1st of many times I will go the extra mile to get our kids the best opportunities?!
:)
Now if you have read this far...please leave a comment! I know somebody is reading this becasue my new blog counter is up and running!
And suggest some songs for me to add to my imeem playlist at the top!
NON

Soccer!

Thanks to my friend Nancy for the comment!

Apparently soccer went pretty well. I had to miss it but Daddy gave me as many details as a man is allowed to remember. ..(hee hee -you women get that joke right?)

There were 40(!) kids signed up for this under 6 group.
At first he kept up but then John said he thinks Jack "got intimidated" by all the kids and just kicked his ball off on his own for awhile. Overall he said he liked it and fell asleep at 7 pm that night! Crashed in his chair in front of a Weebles movie.

I hope to get some pics next week and post them!
Non

so big

When Jack and I were sitting in the living room this a.m. I had one of those moments...MY little boy is growing up. I caught a glance of his profile - the way he spoke- the fact that his pj's are getting short all over...

You get a little lump in your throat realizing you can't go backward..only forward.

I get that same lump when I read other mom's write about sending their babies off to kindergarten, or college..the lump that starts in your heart and ends up in your stomach and your throat.

They grow up so fast..what happened to my little guy who needed me to pick him up out of his crib..needed me to zip up his coat..needed me to open up his snack package.

How do you let go?

How do I convince myself it is good for them to grow up?

And that is when I reach over and ask him to hug me and for a moment I am just his momma and he is my baby boy again.

photo taken Winter 2006

Non

end the guilt

Make their artwork in art...

http://www.coolmompicks.com/2008/04/your_child_20032008_an_artisti.php

Make a Baby Romper from a T Shirt - wikiHow

thought this was kind of cute..imagine the possibilites!


Make a Baby Romper from a T Shirt - wikiHow

Joey at 6 months

First tooth came in Friday 4/18/08...bottom left
Still drools like crazy..needs to wear a bib all the time..which covers up his cute shirts!
Is ticklish under his armpits..
Likes to play "This little piggy went to market"
Is overall a happy guy -only fussy when he is hungry
Gets VERY excited when you show him his bottle..he shakes and puts his hands out to grab it
Tried rice cereal for the first time 4/24..pretty messy and he was mostly interested in chewing on the spoon
Can roll over! Best at stomach to back...just gets his arm stuck on back to stomach.
Still loves his brother Jack so much..he can always make Joey smile.
Will have a toy in each hand and bang them together..then let one drop and sucks on the chosen toy.
Sitting in a highchair pretty well..it has new toys connected to it so that fascinates him at the moment.
Doesnt like to sit on your lap for too long...enjoys walking around and looking at everything
Loves to play peek a boo
Will smile at his reflection in the mirror..esp if Mommy asks him.."Who is that Baby?"
Caught another cold and that makes him cough again but he seems improved over the previous problems (using the flovent helps)
Loves attention..play with him and he will smile and be your best buddy..likes to flirt with restaurant waitresses
Wearing 6-12 months clothes
Still eating about 5 -6oz bottles daily
If he doesnt have a toy in his mouth..his hands are there.
Loves his Daddy...he will smile when he hears his voice
Goes to bed around 8:30 and wakes for a feeding sometimes at 5 or 6 but sometimes will sleep until 7!

Likes it when mommy brushes her hair on his tummy like a "car wash"

Loves to GRAB mommy's hair and glasses in a death grip!

Likes to swing in the airplane at daycare outside

momma & me

taken by Daddy..6 months old

update soon

Joey turned 6 months old yesterday..I need to upload the pictures yet.
Tonight I am going to meet Molly at Archivers for a school days class. I am pretty sure Molly could teach the class and I could come up with the layouts myself but we both decided we want to have a start on the kid's school books..this will be a jump start.
And an oppotunity to see each other w/out the kids in tow.

Jack has his first night of soccer practice and I will miss it. Daddy is taking him and I HOPE it goes well...they are letting the 3.5 y olds on the team even though the min age was supposed to be 4.

one week later-10 on Tues

1. thanks to my blog/scrapper star friend Michelle I have added the ability to leave anon comments...so leave some people! But be nice!

2. I had a very interesting weekend up north scrapping at Sugarleaf in Cross Lake, Mn.

I didnt arrive until 11pm on Friday and then woke up with pink eye (thanks to my lovely boys) and had no drops with me. I was lucky enough to visit the BMC (branierd med ctr) urgent care and get help.

I figure it was God's way of telling me I need to know where the urgent care is with 2 boys and our in-laws lake place in Cross Lake. Something is gonna happen someday.

3. We have friggin ants in our living room. We welcome spring whole-heartedly but not the bugs that go along with it. We put out the liquid poison and had a lengthy discussion with Jack about why we dont touch it, go near it etc. Crossing fingers he will keep a distance ....and that the little buggers will carry it back to the homeboys and kill the whole stinkin brood.

4. I am considering buying an external hard drive for my pictures and the A&S acct info. Then I can sleep peacefully at night..(I dont have a problem sleeping now but I am c-m-a- covering my a**)

Anybody have any recommendations? Looking at this dandy one possibly.

5. We are going to pick up the Jetta tonight and Jack and I convinced Daddy we should have dinner at my FAVORITE place too..Champps.

Love the seasoned sour cream and fries..

I used to work at one the summer before my junior yr at college- and I gained about 15lbs from it and the beer cheese soup..well maybe it was also from eating big mac value meals at 1:30 am when I finally got off work- and not carrying huge acctg books across the college campus to burn it off.

6. The Jetta was being driven by hubby to court on 169 near Jordan and as he crossed over the bride (ie-nowhere to pull off) some 'yahoo'(my families term for idiot) 3 cars ahead of him had their ladder fly off and onto the road and approaching traffic. John said later it was scary..and that is saying a lot for my big tough hubby. We needed to get the old black bart in for an oil change anyway.

7.Naturally the afforementioned Yahoo had an expired license and no insurance -3 dwi's -(you are not supposed to be able to drive Dirt Bag.)

8. Naturally we dont have collison anymore on a 10 yr old Jetta so no luck on claiming all the work that needs to be done on it.

9. Here are some of the fabulous pics Olivia took of Joey and I am considering which photo to select for a big canvas...what do you all think..which one?

10. Still trying to learn on my new xTi and decide if I should invest in Lightroom ..I just cant afford Photoshop right now! What do you all use for post processing?

10 on tuesday

Yes I am copying this idea from everyone else in blogdom..

1) We had a good weekend. Attended a crop on Saturday at a local church. Yeah...only a 5 minute drive to crop instead of the usual 30-60 mintue one. I only got a few pages done but I was able to dust off the cobwebs on my supplies and get creative after a long hiatus.

2) Hiatus..that word reminds me of an old boyfriend. ugh..

3)Joey is sooooooo cute and snuggly Still..thank goodness- I still fear I will miss his baby stage completely -they grow way too fast.

4)Today we had Jack's last ECFE class at Ney nature center. It was so cute watching he and his little friends run around the grass looking for birds in their toilet paper roll binoculars.

Afterward we had a fun dinner at DQ with Dylan and his parents. They are so easy to hang with and talk about the boys.
Michelle is prego with #2 and I am excited to see if it is a girl or boy.

5) We talked at length about the boys starting preschool this fall. Man there is so much to figure out with kids. Which preschool to pick..how many days to go..Should they start kindy in a year or 2? I didnt want to be the "anal" mother but you almost become one when you want the best for your kids.

6) It is REALLY windy out tonight. We finally had warm weather today but wind gusts of 50mph..it looked like a dust bowl at work with the dirt from the nearby farm fields blowing onto the runway.

7) John and I and Jack all have bad colds. Hopefully mine will subside in time for the weekend

8) Because I am going scrapbooking AGAIN! YIPPEEEEEEEEEE! Another year at Sugarleaf with the gals from New Horizon. Man I dont miss that job at all..But it is always nice to see old friends.

9) I have not printed a single pic of Joey yet..that is soooo bad. Take stock in Shutterfly because it is going to be a massive order my friends!

10)Trying to decide wether to buy Photoshop elements or Lightroom. Hoping the mamarazzi school will come to MN or Chicago to teach me how to use my camera and post processing better!

off to bed...I will post some pics soon..uploading them now.
nite
NON

GAP love

I admit it..I am addicted to Baby Gap clothes..I REALLY wanted to get this one piece for Joey for the summer but they only show it in teeny sizes..rats..I swear it was never available in larger than 0-3 mos. Oh the horror! LOL

too fast

The days just fly by. Work is crazy busy..the 15th of April is approaching and I am so far behind on getting the co stuff done for taxes. Also behind on Anderson & S stuff..ugh.
I just read a great blog entry..a mom wrote a letter to her 11 mo old boy about all the things he is doing in anticipation for his big 1 yr bday.
Makes me feel guilty for not recording enough stuff that Joey is up to.
I need to add more pics to the blog Iknow..our ocmputer at home is slow in uploading and it takes time. I start the process and then I get distracted by the boys needing me or it is late and I know I should just go to bed.etc...

Going to scrapbook this sat..where do I begin?
better get to work..

Busy weekend

Whew...what a busy weekend.

I survived the Doodlebops show..we almost didnt go once Jack threw his lollipop stick at me in the car...then proceeded to wail for 5 minutes yelling "I'm sorry Mommy, I sorry" . He just wanted to eat at the McD's in Jordan and I said no -trying to get us up to St Paul in rushhour traffic.
I bought him his coveted guitar..he stood for the entire concert and "played along" - I think he enjoyed this concert/show the most out of all we have seen so far.
Sat was get ready for the anniversary party day..I was able to sneak down to Mankato to get a chin fong pedicure (u pick color..). a new outfit (Kohl's is my ace in the hole always for that kind of last minute stuff) and my hair done by my wonderful stylist Allison. I just can't get that salon look at home even with my Chi flat iron!
The party was super fun. My cousin Robyn was up from IA with her handsome boy Wil (8 mos now?) There was a great mix of relatives to honor my folks and we played a super fun game of Jepordy- personalized to my parents -nicknames, Twin City Furnace (my dad's business), Polish pride and family tree. My bro made it up and I thought it was really fun...even if my team took last place:(
Today Jack actually took a nap! Yes the rivers parted and the pope was seen flying by..Jack took a 3 hr nap willingly for us. I was able to get a little work done and then took him to Dairy Queen for supper and Horton Hears a Who..we were the only ones in the theatre-cool. He could talk as loud as he wanted
I thought the movie was just ok..not really that great for kids at all I think..young ones at least.
Enough for now...nite
Non

cool idea

So I am already married but if we were going to do it all over again I would so have one of these babies at the reception..
http://www.fotocabina.com/

Your own photobooth where guests can have goofy fun and then leave a copy of their photos for your guestbook! Sounds like a much better idea than giving everyone a dumb bag of gross Jordan almonds wrapped in tulle!

Love these..

I may need these someday for Jack...

One night I had to put his HUGE Flounder (think Nemo) stuffed animal behind the chair in his room to keep monsters out of the corner...

Behold the monster under our bed BOMB

Do u think it works on dust bunnies too?

AND

The tooth fairy pillow...

A little creepy looking..I may be able to find a happier looking one..I have a few more yrs I think before this would get any use..

I worry about being the parent who falls asleep and forgets to have the tooth fairy visit! :(

Tommorow night I have to take Jack to the Doodlebops concert at the X. Cant say I am looking forward to it..I enjoyed the Sesame Steet show (because as a child I LOVED SS) and the Playhouse Disney was fun because I love Handy Manny ...

But the crazy scary painted face Doodlebops..not so much------->>>>>>

I bought these tickers awhile ago when I was still very much pregnant with Joey..I was worried about still spending time with Jack...(which was a silly thing to worry about I know now!)

great ..now I have that freakin song from their show stuck in my head.."Just get on the bus.."

nite nite

Non

Mom & Dad's 40th anniversary video

Here is a short video I made for my parents 40th wedding anniversary party this Sat night. It should be a really fun night!

Anybody know how to convert from a burned cd video to a DVD?

Mom & Dad 40th

Things I want to remember

Isnt that the main reason mom's blog?

Jack has such an immagination lately. He makes up little stories as we drive down the road. He is either trying to figure the world out or is bored or both!

He is constantly telling longwinded explantions for what we are going to do or did do..and then at the end says "OOOO-KAY?????" (sounds more like O-hay?)

And he will end many stories with..."mee-member that mom?" (remember..)

He tends to get details mixed up or just makes things up and it is hilarious to listen to.

Today I took both boys to Olivia Wagner's new photo studio..it was a fabulous space with brick walls and wood floors. She was so patient with us and I think she got some great shots.

Then a trip to McD's because I promised Jack..he was so well behaved during the entire 2 hr appt. Olivia had some great toys he enjoyed but I was very proud of him.

Tonight John is off again to watch the NCAA tourney. He still has a few teams in it. I am glad I planned a few scrap outings next month to make up for all this single mommy time.

Tommorrow Jack and I will meet up with Ma-mma Joan at Burnsville to have lunch (yum) and get Jack some new tennis shoes. Hooray!

family time

We have a good amount of it these past 2 days.

Yesterday after Joey's appt we stopped in Eden Prairie and had an early dinner at Friday's (Jack's favorite place). It was nice to just sit back and have a good meal all together.

The dr appt went ok...I was not thrilled with the outcome but I cant complain that the dr didnt do anything. Pulmonary is tough to diagnose. It could be so many diff things. we will follow this plan for 1 month and then decide if he needs a reflux test.

I think we should do the test first and then decide if he needs medicine for his lungs.

Tonight we met Joe and Jill at the Coachlight and had a fun time..lots of basketball watching buddies were there. Joey had Karen Malm wrapped around his little finger. She can make Joey smile just like my Aunt Judy..they look alike. Joey must like the short haired blondes..taking applications for girlfriends now.. jk

Tommorrow we go to our photo shoot. He is 5 mos old today but it was too busy to take the teddy bear pics.

He has been really fussy at night this week. Crying or whining etc. He needs a bottle to help him fall asleep and then even wakes up on the transfer to the carseat.

picture time...I CAN TOUCH MY TOES MOMMA!

Joey and The Ranger.

catching up

Time flies...when you are busy!


I drove the boys up to mom's last Thursday and then drove home at 11 pm in the blinding snowstorm that just started.

Mom said the boys were great. The best part is that my Dad helped out A LOT she said. Joey apparently loves him the most. Awesome.


Easter was good. We drove up on Sat to get the boys..got new tires on the white Denali - cha ching...then headed over to the Skuby household.




We had take out..(my favorite)for dinner and then Kathy proceeded to pack for their trip out to NY. I find it funny (not) that she packs for her husband.. and I mean EVERTHING. Right down to picking out a book for him to read on the flight...whatever.



We had a fun morning with Jack -actually I did since John slept until 10- Jack found all 6 "eggs"-actually this year the bunny put candy in Lightning Mc Queen containers and Tonka dump truck containers..so cool and boyish.


He also made a good haul in his basket..A Harry book (no roses for Harry), a mini kite, some purple bunny peeps (that Non ate most of-YUM)a bunny on a motorcycle, a chocolate Spongebob (that I just threw out tonight.he doesnt need more candy) and a Max & Ruby DVD.




The BEST part of all was I wrapped up a Rub-a-dub-dub shaving kit and let John give it to Jack. Jack LOVES to help his Dad shave..he gets to shake up the creme and then he watches him..so naturally this gift was a HUGE hit.


I had a Dentist appt from H*ll yesterday..4 shots of novocaine, one permanent crown put in that apparently was way too big -the dentist even remarked what a "good sport" I was for sitting thru his yanking it in and out numerous times...and 2 fillings. The whole agonizing time I kept thinking about Joey smiling at me. It helped..and watching Run's house on the Tv (yes one of the reasons we go to this dentist office!)

I also promised myself some kind of treat for sucking it up and making it thru. I have always hated the dentist but I know it is important to go. yadda-yadda-yadda



Tommorow we take Joey to a pediatric pulmonologist at the U of Mn. Hoping they can figure out what is wrong..perhaps just reflux. Please let them fix it!


Tonight I took Jack to get a haircut and then to Mankato to get soccer equipment. A cool silver/green ball, shin guards, soccer shorts and he picked out 2 orange cones for pratice.


He is really good at putting one cone on each side of his head..goof ball.


Picture time now


Here's Joey and his Daddy




Here is one for Grandpa!




More pics later
nite nite
Non

more snow and baby tricks

I drove the boys up to my parents house last night after work.

First we had a "fieldtrip" to Southdale Mall so I could get their pics taken with the Easter Bunny.

I was disappointed to see the bunny no longer wore his bright green vest and hot pink tie..It would have co-ordinated beautifully with the boys' green outfits.

They had him dressed in navy blue...boring!

The dumb-clucks running the camera decided to keep taking pics trying to get Joey to smile. Well they suceeded with that but didnt understand english apparently when I said I liked the 1st shot (because it was good of Jack) and after 2 pics...Jack looses interest.

Then we sat and Jack ate his sucker and I fed Joey.

Jack then proceeded to say: " Mom, I'm cold (in his short sleeve polo shirt) Let's get me a sweater.

Non: "ok! "(if my boy WANTS to go shopping (my fav activity) do you think I am going to talk him out it?)

So we went to Baby gap and Jack picked out this nice hoodie

Isnt it great..love the brown and blue

He of course had to try it on first in the dressing room..his new thing after helping me a few times find maternity jeans.

Jack "Mom, you sit here (on the chair) while I try this on"

ok buddy!

One chair was for Mommy's and the other for Daddy's.

We did a quick swoop through the baby stuff and I ended up with more than we need...I do love Baby Gap and Gap kids.

We were on our way home when Jack announced in Macy's that he needed to pee...so why not go down to the kids section and use the "little toilets there" while I window shop on the way by.

We walk out with a super handsome 4 piece suit for Jack. Hoping he will wear it for my parents 30th anniv party and then this summer for our new cousin's baptism in NY. It came with an orange tie...that sealed the deal for him..lol.

On to the latest baby tricks...Joey has mastered putting both feet in the air and grabbing on to his feet.

I LOVE This trick..next fav is when he puts his feet in his mouth..

Babies!

Congrats to my college roomate Denise on her new bundle of joy- Brock Potter

What a cutie pie!

Also congrats to this new momma..JJ..she has been waiting a long time for her little guy.

Makes me melt seeing all these new ones.

We are supposed to get a winter storm tonight..trying to figure out if Gramma can drive down in the am to watch the boys..STRESS!

McD's

Jack, Joey and I went with daycare Katie and Liz and her 3 boys and Mckenna to the St P McD's. Jack has been asking to go to their playground for months.

He decided he didnt want to play on the slides and only played with a whimpy lego table containing only 7 blocks. Amazingly it kept him occupied for quite awhile.



Then the bad part...he pooped in his pants..yes he has been potty trained for 6 months with very few accidents but this was poop accident #2 (no pun intended) in 1 week!!

I tried to not make a big deal of it. Hoping this is the last of it. I may need to invest in one of those super poratable toilet inserts from One step ahead. He wont go on public toilets....says he needs his insert. This may be coming from a fear of falling in..he did fall in last week when he forgot to put the seat down...cruel wife I am..I blamed his Daddy for not putting the seat down.;)

BWAHAHAHA!!



John is at the basketball draft...I know where he will be living for the next 2-3 weeks..with the couch permanently attached to his butt in his "man-cave" in our basement.



Hoping to take the boys to see the E bunny on Saturday at Southdale...he is my favorite picture bunny. Even if Noerr (the co running the show) is corrupt and overcharges for their photos..I still LOVE that bunny.



My mom is coming down to watch the boys on Friday...hoping to dye eggs with Jack over my lunchhour.

My mom is a saint..it is true -you dont realize how hard your parents work until you have your own kids. I am a super lucky girl..I have GREAT parents and they are celebrating their 30th wedding anniversary this month:)



I need to post some current photos from our recent WI dells trip. And some cute ones I took of Joey tonight. He was wearing an outfit Jack got and he is starting to grab his feet with his hands..I need to find the pic of Jack doing the same thing in the same outfit and compare!

I love my boys and I am a lucky Non.
Thanks to the great idea from Susan ...Here is my first mommy and me pic with Joey. This was taken a few weeks ago. Watch the hands little man!
(I can't wait to get Lasik someday)


Non out!

snow!

We woke up this am to a beautiful dusting of snow....maybe the last this winter??

the wearin o' the green

So the boys are a bit Irish from John's mother's family-Kelly...so I had to dress them up.

I know the hat is a little big..but for $1 at Target you can't go wrong? Even Jack liked it...

More tommorrow..our WI dells trip...

Got a haircut, wax and color tonight..finally -a better looking Non.

nite

The one

So I have been trying to get that one special shot of Joey..the smile. That adorable, precious smile that I have figured out how to get to come out by:

Blowing zerberts on his tummy

Blowing on his neck

and best of all..smelling his feet and telling him his feet stink..PU-PU-PU!

And once I do these things I can get this face...and tonight with John's help I was able to finally capture it on film ..er.. digital card?

He was just laughing tonight when we would just look at him and say hi..what a cutie pie.

At his 4 mos check up yesterday he was 15.6 lbs and 64.5 cm

Dr. S decided to try to treat his cough/breathing troubles as reflux and prescribed him Prevacid. We will try the meds for 2 weeks and if no help..we have to see a pediatrician about steriod treatments. crossing fingers.

He loves to suck on his fingers and when laying on his back he sticks his feet straight up in the air

We leave for the Dells this Friday..Joey will stay with my parents again. It probably isnt the best place to have a baby along and will give us a chance to give Jack all the attention...but I will miss him again!!!

This is the 2nd night I have eaten my dinner at 10pm..just too much to do. With daylight savings time it stays light later..fools us that it is earlier...oh well I will take the sunlight anyday!

Finishing watching Young&the Restless on Dvr then off to bed...
Non

Sick Again!

yes Non was sick again...Mon night..the dreaded FLU came upon me. I am back at work today (friday) but not 100% yet. I feel sick like I was pregnant with Joey. UGH.

Hoping no one else gets it! To be careful we had Joey go stay with my parents until tonight. I cannot wait to see the little guy again. I miss him and have to always be suppressing those feelings while I work and now becasue I needed to get better first for him and Jack.

Jack is happy to have his mom back. He and Dad dont always get along. grr....it hopefully will end soon.

I had to cancel the bunny photo shoot! WAA!! I rescheduled for Sat March 29th..hoping it will be fantastic and I will come away with some great shots of Joey

I played around with my new rebel yesterday..I got some good shots of Jack just being himself on the couch while we watched Caliou episodes. That is his favorite show right now..I love it because he is 4 and going through all the normal questions and experiences Jack is to. It is a slow moving but interesting show..no shoot 'em up-Sponge Bob crap.

So the week has consisted of laying on the couch and sleeping alot. We leave for Wi Dells next weekend..I need to start packing..where are my flip flops??

Hope to post some pics of Joe soon..here is a favorite of Jack from last fall

Non

Anderson Visit

We had a great time with the Anderson's this weekend.
Sara, Bryn (5), Kie (4) and Reese (9.5 mos) came on Friday night.
The kids played and we had supper.

Bedtime was tough for Jack. He was really acting up and crying
He wants his bedroom door shut, the Andersons want it open. He is such a bossy pants.

Kie loved Jack's car bed and slept in it both nights.Wo-hoo..glad someone is using it!

We took them to Edinborough indoor park on sat aftn. Jack was not too thrilled with it. He told me the slides were for bigger kids. They weren't but that was of course ok with me being the overly sensitive mom I am.
Then Sara bought a super cool expedit bookshelf at Ikea while I stayed in the car with the kids.
We squeezed the boxes into the truck...they ended up going right down the middle of the truck seperating the boys- it was funny.

Overall it was a great visit! She is a super mom and friend and I learn alot of good ideas from her..and she is just easy to talk to.
I wish they lived closer!

Joey @ 4 months

a few days late but nonetheless..

What is he doing??

Loves to suck on his fingers and hands/knuckles

Will make low gurggling noises while sucking too

Wakes up around 5:30-6 am and squeals and "talks" really loud..I have to take him out into the living room in the am because otherwise he will wake up Daddy and Jack

(yes Jack is sleeping in our bed most mornings now!:( )

Still loves to get dressed. Now I always grab his feet and smell them and say -Pu-pu PU! he loves it! His eyes get all twinkly and then he smiles and sometimes a little gurgle laugh comes out too.

He will smile and laugh sometimes when I tickle his neck (under the rolls!) or if we blow zerberts on his tummy

Sits pretty well in his swing- will talk to the orange fish or the star if we attach it to the top

Also likes his bouncy seat..our chair of choice if bringing him into the bathroom with us

Now has a lime green Bumbo seat- I didnt buy one for Jack..thought they were silly. But I am glad we got one for Joey..it is good for taking pics!

We just put him in the highchair this weekend. Reese Anderson was over (she is 9.5 mos) and was using it. He is actually better sitting up in it than reclined back!

His coughing is still bad..wakes him up about 3 times a night but finally he will go back to sleep and doesnt need to be fed.

Sleeps from about 8-6

Naps are different everyday!

Eating pattern is different everyday.-Katie says he will eat up to 9 oz for her at one sitting and the most we get is 6..sometimes only 4?

His favorite person in the world is Jack. He will sit in front of him in his swing and say silly made up words and songs and Joey stares and smiles and squeals at him.

I had no idea how great sibling LOVE can be.

He will LOOK for Jack if he is in the room talking but Joey can't see him.

He weighs about 14-15 lbs and his 3-6 mos sleepers are getting too short for him.

He likes it when I sing to him at night and we rock in the lazyboy in our room.

When drinking his bottle he will grab onto my fingers and squeeze while eating.

It is so precious I love it.

And I truly, madly, deeply love him

love

Non

guests coming

today....Sara and her 3 kids are coming for a visit..hurray!

trying to keep up

So much happens..so fast.

I was home last Thus and Fri with double pink eye and strep. Hoooray for sick days.
Joey stayed home with me on Friday while Jack had a "play date" aka another mom watched him while daycare was closed. It was at Bryson's house..the Voss's. He had a great time.

Thank goodness daycare is back open..was in FL..rough life

I got to oogle and hold Joey as much as I wanted..he needed it too I think. Every night lately I take Jack and John gets Joey. Not too fair but Jack doesnt want it any other way.

He still insists on sleeping with me in our bed. I can get him to sleep in "Ma-maa" 's bed first ..his bed is starting to collect cobwebs.

Joey is still coughing..a lot. It sucks.

Jack and I went to Playhouse Disney on sat at the Target center. I bought him WAy too many souvy's. Trumpet, handy manny tshirt, rusty (for me actually;), turner, popcorn and a cup with asnow cone that he never ate and melted into super sugar juice. I secretly dumped out and told him it was bad later. If there had been a Handy Manny t in my size I would have bought it!

He danced the to the "hot dog" song from MM clubhouse...so cute. that kid has rythym for sure.
The inlaws came down Sat and Kathy did all our laundry..I had not seen the floor of that room for months. It is just best if I am not around.

Still schemeing to get a digital rebel xti camera..will it really work better for me? Is all this for nothing?
the plot thickens...

Jack cute things lately:
He makes up songs and words and dances in front of Joe in his bouncy chair or swing...Joe loves it..he can always make Joe smile.
Still says he wants to do whatever you propose...TOMOrrow...right..his way of delaying things.

He fell asleep in the mall stroller yesterday while watching the tv at Gymboree..his head was tilted to the side and he slept so hard he had zipper marks on his face...poor thing..I carried him plus 2 large shopping bags much too far to the car..I think I almost passed out. My only exercise.
Of course then he woke up for the ride home and the entire rest of the day.

Should I get a bugaboo stroller?? hmm hmm?

Jack and I went to the dentist on Thurday am..even with my pink eye..shh dont tell.
He did wonderful..no cavities I guess and they said his teeth are looking good. Surprised me. He loved watching the Tv...Dora was on. The Dentist practically had to take off the headphones so he would hear him.
He wanted to have "Pictures" taken of his teeth too.. (xrays) so I guess that wont be a problem next time
He surprises me with how easy he adapts to new situations..I am lucky.

I was not so lucky..2 cavities and 2 crowns...$2grand! WTH! Where is dental insurance when you need it!
That is why I work dam**t
love
non

a day with Momma

Joey came to work with me today. So far he has really charmed everyone. Scott held him and I am pretty sure he enjoyed it.

He is sleeping now..gives me such a peaceful feeling when my boys sleep during the day.

Grandpa John is at our house watching Jack. They are having a great time. I said to Jack as I walked out the door after lunch.."Have fun!" and he yelled back .."I AM!"

Went out with Gail and Ida last night..I am glad we asked her out. She told me she was thrilled when I called. She has lots of photog knowledge so hoping I can get her help.

Ida is also into lots of neat things like TAI chi..need to check out that out with her..positive healing!
non

Happy heart day!

What a special day this has been..lucky mom to 2 cute boys and I was served breakfast in bed this am! I can't believe John thought of it. His one nice action wipes out 25 bad ones.

I had fruit loops, english muffins, oj and water.All served on a tray that he had to put together..cant even believe he found it stashed away since our wedding!

Jack wanted to sit on my lap...doesnt quite work that way dude..he helped me finish the cereal. Wow..I cant believe how lucky I am!

Joey has a bad cough still..we wakes up around 1 and 3 and I bolt out of bed to check him...it sounds like he is choking sometimes. Hope there is not something we could be doing for him and are not!

I entered some old pics into a photo contest today at mamarazzi.com.
My new photo stuff comes tommorrow -cant wait.
I also ordered a photo book and "the bearhunt" cd for Jack..overnight -yippee!

I think I have the outfits for the bunny pics decided..just lt blue but I think ok.
Going to dinner tonight with gail and Ida.
Yummy beer!
Non

adorable at 3.5 months

MR Bubble!

Isnt he the cutest thing?

I think so..even if he wakes me up early in the am..today I went and scooped him up before he woke because he was coughing so much..I felt bad for him.

Poor little guy shouldnt have to be sick so little!

I wuv him

Non

3 little bears

So Jack has decided that he has to sleep with me now in my bed every night!

It started with him just coming up early in the morning and we would go out to the couch and watch cartoons..then one am he agreed to climb in to bed and fell back asleep.
Now it is at bedtime ..he begs and I have fought it for so long..I knew once I caved it was all over..

he has slept with us for the last 2 nights..he tends to wiggle towards my end of the bed and full out ounches in the face while sleeping. It is not fun. But I am getting more sleep probably then continiuing to go downstairs putting him back in his bed...listening to him cry.

Joey has a bad cough again..started on Sunday morning...stupid RSV. I hate that he is sick and sounds miserable when he coughs. I just wanted to stay home with him today so bad. NExt week I should be bringing him in to work. Katie is going to Florida. Jack is going to be watched by different people over the week.
ON the 23rd we are going to Playhouse Disney at the Target Center. Hoping he will enjoy it!

I went to a cute shop called Pacifier on East hennepin yesterday. Spent way too much $. Got Jack a wooden banjo. Joey a sock monkey shirt for when he is 1yr old, a wooden toy, a pair of robeez 50%.
Checked out the ultra chic and expensive strollers and again decided I cant get one because they dont have a cupsnack holder in front for the child. How dumb is that??

Picked up the fiasco JCPenney pictures yesterday too. Not as bad I I thought but Jack's head looks oblong...his hair was too long too..cant win.It is either too short or too long in pics.

Too early!

Jack has been getting up at 5:30 am! I am soooo tired. Beyond tired. I have been fighting a bug of some kind too and I took Nyquil to help last night so that made me even more groggy!

He comes barreling up the stairs ..I can hear him everytime no matter how dead asleep I am..
"MOM! Let's go in the living room!"...I bleary eyed grab my pink blanket and pillow and hold his hand out to the living room couch where I try to grab a few more winks inbetween changing the channel for him and giving him "uh-huh's" every now and then.

Apparently Joey was up late last night too -according to John.
When am I going to catch up?

I started back to work full time this week....missing my little guy and remembering how tough it was to leave Jack at first.
Bubba Lou..he is so good.
His beautiful blue eyes are my favorite.

xox

momma's boy

This morning John was gone and I had to get both boys ready and off to daycare.
I had left Jack at the table to eat his breakfast (he wanted both Lucky Charms and French toast sticks) while I took a shower.

I came out to find he had only eaten the cereal and was glued to the television...
I asked him to hurry up and finish his breakfast or we would be late..to which he replied.

"here Mom, you eat these French toast sticks because you have not eaten breakfast yet..."

Always looking out for me..I love my guy.
Non

Jack can read

In the fall of 2007 I would say you started to be very interested in reading books to us.

The first book you ever read out loud, front to back was

Blue Hat, Green Hat

By Sandra Boynton

A very simple but funy book that makes you laugh.
We checked it out from the local library but this one became special the minute you said
" I want to read it to you mom" and you did..it made my heart melt.

We took it back to the library and I mentioned it was the 1st book you ever read aloud and the librarian, Diane Pinney, came around the checkout desk and proceeded to sit on the floor with you while you read the book to her..it was a priceless moment.

I tried to take you to the library at least once a week this past summer.
It has been tougher to get there in the winter and now that Joey is with us. As he gets older I am sure we will continue our weekly trips -
Reading stories with you every night before bed has become a ritual and one that I hope we can continue for years to come.
Some of your favorite books now are:
Harry the Dirty dog
Party time with Blue ( actually has a clock face on the front..you read it so many times in bed that one of the buttons does not work anymore)
"I spot" books
Let's Go Froggy
anything by Sandra Boynton

Some nights you will finally get into bed and then ask me to read you " one more book"...I cannot say no...I tell you "you can read this one to yourself bud"..and you give me the sad eyes and pouty lip and say "but I cant read the words mom"

I know the list of favorites will continue to grow and I am so proud of how much you have accomplished so far buddy.
love
non
xo

Jack and his imagination

I want to record how wonderful your imagination is now Jack.
Tonight, like many nights before this, you wanted to play "store" with me.

You rounded up all kinds of items: Cd's, DVD's, 2 puzzles, and a lunchbox and circled them around you -"your store".
You always greet me (the customer) so nicely - "hello, come on in!"
You have fair pricing - a dvd was only $3,a puzzle was $2

You also love to play grocery store.. (pronouced by you as "Groshery Whore")
I almost peed my pants the day you took your pretend microphone and "annouced" over your loudspeaker that "Aisle 1 is now closed!"
You get confused between the aisles and the checkout lanes.

When we actually go to our town SuperValu store "Rademachers" you always pay very close attention to what the check out girl does. Now I see why!

Tonight was one of those aha moments when I realized I needed to stop worrying about getting everything done around the house and finish my work I had brought home (since Joey has been sick) and just PLAY with you. It means so much to you and I get sad thinking about the day when you won't want me to play with you (sniff sniff) . I know those days will come and it will make me sad but I know I am trying my best to give you a happy, fun childhood that I can only hope you will look back on fondly.

You will be 3 1/2 next month and I just stop and look at you and cannot believe how fast you are growing. I can see in your profile a glimpse of myself which is a nice change over everyone always saying how much you look like your Daddy.
I know you have some of my fun-loving, goofy personality..I am trying to enrich your life with music and movies and some of the things I enjoyed as a child:
The Muppet Show
Coloring and making cards
Dancing around the room
building houses with blocks

My wish for you, is truly, for you to just be happy no matter what your life may bring you.
I love you so much my son
You will always be my Jackers crackers, pumpkin pies and I will forever be your Non.
xo

And then we were 4

Joseph Ryan was born October 28, 2007 at 2:49 am

7lbs 11 oz , 20 inches
a bit early but I was so ready...he was really low and I was really miserable!

JAck has adjusted pretty well to being a big brother..much better than I anticipated!
We made it through the holidays without any major problems

but now..in Jan 08
Joey was in the hospital - ISJ in Mankato for one night. He has RSV. The very thing my sister warned me about. Joey's cousin Katie has the same birthday and had the same thing...but earlier (before Christmas) and I am hoping his being a bit older helped his case be less severe.

He may have problems now because of it. As Grandma Joan says: dammit!
He is handling it so well. He is such a good baby to begin with..so good natured. Only cries when he is really hungry. A Smiling , chatting sweetheart.

Jack just tonight told us his "baby" Max is sick and needed to go to the hospital -Daddy and Jack then played hospital in his room.
Dad said he also dug really deep to find his "I'm a big brother" book to read. He must be worried about Joey. It is so sweet to see him try to make him smile - he says silly words and danced around in front of him..and sometimes it works!

I am so blessed to have 2 wonderful boys. Life can be crazy most days - working and keepipng the house up is tough there is no denying it.
I just hope I can record all the wonderful moments enough to look back on!
I love my boys
AM (non)

3 years old

It has been awhile...so much to say about what a wonderful boy you are becoming Jack.

Last week on Monday I brought you home from daycare with a head full of sand! Apparently you and another boy, Tristan, must have been throwing it around in the sandbox at daycare.
I convinced you to take a bath right away to get it out..I had to remind myself this would be a first of many baths scrubbing something out of your hair!!

You are a pro at potty training now...What I think worked was we took a casual approach to it until you showed you were really ready. You loved that we promised to take you to Chuck E Cheese once you suceeded and were wearing big boy undies. You love to wear your Diego and Elmo underwear and I have to say you look so darn cute in them too!

You have moved into your "new" big boy bedroom. Grandpa John came down and painted it blue and we had Wise Furniture put in new carpet. Mom put the room together and decorated it on a weekend you were up north with G & G Skubitz (just before you b-day) so when you came home on Sunday night to unveiling you were really surprised and fortunately loved it!
I had bought a race car bed earlier in the year and he hid it. You had no real problems switching into it that very night..goodbye crib!

Your favorite part is the car string lights I wrapped around a floor lamp..you like to turn off all the other lights and look at them and say..."OHHH..cool!"

You are handling the talk of your new brother coming pretty well..You can tell people he is in my Belly button and his name is Joey. I am unsure how things will be once he is really here with us but I promise you I will do my best to give you a lot of love and attention as always!

love and hugs
NON

misc thoughts

We are slowly starting you on potty training. You love your Diego potty seat but we cant get you to tell us yet when you have to go. Slow but sure I keep reminding myself.

I mostly want to write about how much I love that you are able to enjoy your Grandpa Dave. I was worried he would not live to see my kids...but here we are and you LOVE your BOPPA dave.
Last night we called G & G Zandlo to tell them about your potty training experience and he always sounds so happy to hear from you. You answer in either a really loud exciting voice or a very soft voice...no in between!

You asked your Daddy and Mommy to dance with you last night...I loved it. I am trying to turn off the tv and put on more music or nothing at all and just have you play. I know the dancing and running around are good for you.

This Sat we are going to Sesame Street Live- your 1st show. More later! I am excited for it!

love
NON

Big news

It was a very big day at Grandma and Grandpa Zandlo's house. While I went shopping with my cousin Robyn for maternity clothes you stayed at G & g's house.

When I got back Mom told me you had gone poop in the big potty! We had bought you a Diego toilet seat and I bet that made the difference!

You proceeded to show it to me and try to flush it down 3 times!

Then you agreed to get on the potty and went pee too!!

WOW!
What happens now??
NON

almost 2 and a half years old

You are growing up into a normal toddler for sure Jack.

You Still LOVE Blue's Clues and like to act out the songs and shows while listening and watching.

If I call you Steve or Joe you say in a disgusted voice....no JAckie!

You wiggle your butt so cute to the music and throw your elbow up -your signature move!

You are not potty trained yet but we will have to start soon I am afraid. You do not seem too interested in the process.

You seem to favor saying Grandma Kathy which bothers me a bit. Of course I want you to like Grammie Joan the best because I love her so much.
You really love Boppa dave who is big and strong and has always played fun things with you like Peek a boo, play doh and gives you his big flashlight.

You are starting to show more affection to your Daddy which is nice but makes me jealous. I always want to be #1 in your book. I am happy you saw things like " go downstairs and play with daddy" and you start to march your way to the stairs. You can now slide down them on your butt rather well but it make sup nervous..those stairs are steep!

You can count pretty good too...1 2 3 7 - seven is your favorite number
you know your colors very very well and your letters to some degree.

at grandma Joan's you can fiind and place all the letters in your alphabet puzzle.
you are a little hugh strung wanting everything to be just so and in its correct place. You notice immediatley if something is off or has been changed.
Gram is worrried you will always need to be calmed down. I dont know what to think. I just want you to be happy and you genuinely are most of the time!

You are starting to switch to eating at the table all the time..a big move!

I bought you a race car bed and we are saving it fo rlater...no hurry to get you out the crib until you jump out!

I love you buddy so much some days I hurt. After eating lunch at home and driving by Katie's house I want to surprise you and pick you up and just sweep you home.

xox
NON

Summer Fun

We started taking Jack to Water Babies class at the community pool. He likes the water but is a little leary at first to get in and let go of Non.

John came with last night for our 2nd class to take pictures.
James from his ECFE small wonders class was there too..he is so cute and it is amazing how big both of the boys have gotten.

Jack is continuing to try to speak short sentences and communicate with us. It is frustrating for him and us when he tries to say something and we cannot understand what he is trying to say!

Last Friday the 16th we had a bad storm with lots of thunder before his bedtime. Jack was pretty spooked and clung to me pretty much all through it. It was REALLY great for me to feel so needed by him and he snuggled up to my shoulder like he has not for a long time. It was funny when the loud cracks would come he would stare into my eyes and then try to kiss me. Grammie Joan says he must have been trying to get as close as possible to me.

He lOVES TO read a new little golden book I bought us...I Love Mommy...how approproproate huh? It is amazing how he will be all wild before bed running around the room but when I whip out that book he crawls up into the chair and settles down. He also enjoys reading the fire engine book, the best little word book ever (by Richard Scarry) and the good morning farm..he can now MOOO and say BAA for the sheep and a very weak Neigh for the horse.

He loves to point out pants, shirt, shoes, socks and eyes on book pictures.

He is Very interested in the bathroom and the toilet. I am thinking I need to get a potty chair. Oh the questions never end do they? what to buy..how to help him? Hoping we can make it a smooth transiition.

love you Jack
Non