Talking up a storm

Jackson has really started to talk a lot more and I want to keep track of this since I can't seem to right in his baby book to save my life!

Dada- Calls Daddy, Grandpa and Pablo from Backyardigans this.
Mama and Mommy
N-ma- Grandma Mary
Nana- Grandma Holly
Nee- Courtney (Cousin)
Lady- our Dog
Dee-Koty (Cousin)

SSSSS= Horse
Cheese
Keys- sounds a lot like cheese
Uh Oh Uh Oh
Baby
Boo Boo
Come on
Dog
Straw
Side= Outside
Shoe- could be shoe or socks

I know there is more than this but I can't think of any more.

20 Questions for My Toddler

Okay, so I saw this idea here Scary Mommy today and I had to do it to!  I have been a terrible blogger and so I am going to try and get started again by at least posting photo's and scrap booky kind of things.  You know so my monkey knows we owned a camera when he was little.

Dear Jackson aka Monkey,

1. Do you know that you only have one name or do you think Monkey, Punkin, Punky, Munkin, JackJack and Jackson are all your names.....sorry mommy and daddy like nickname's!
2. Do you REALLY like the taste of dog food?  Cause I can't get you to eat anything grown from the earth to save my life but I think left to your own devices you would eat the whole bowl of "daaawg" food.
3. Do you think Pablo from Backyardigans name is really "DaDa" cause its not and when you call him that it kinda hurts Daddy's feelings.
4. Why do you shake your head no when you want something and when you don't?
5. Do you withhold kisses on purpose?
6. Is the car seat really that bad that you have to arch your back and scream 50% of the time when I put you in it?  I mean you have a DVD player, a drink and a velvety soft seat, how bad can it be?
7. Do you know that I almost cry or melt into a puddle of happy mama every time you wrap your little arms around my neck and put your head on my shoulder.
8. Do you know that a cut or a scrape is really a "Bo Bo" not a "Boobie" but just say it that way cause it makes me crack up?
9. What do you think when EVERYONE we see ANYWHERE comments on your red hair?
10. Why do you pull Zoe's hair constantly?  I can tell you want her to like you and that it not the way to help that along!
11. Shower's huh?  What happened to baths?  A bath is nice every now and then at least..
12. Do you really think resisting is going to get me to not change your diaper?  It can't feel good and we have been doing this for 2 years now.
13. Don't you get tired of the 10 food items you eat?
14. How come you want to sleep in on the days I have to go to work but are up early on the days I don't?
15. How did you pick up on this time out thing so quickly?
16. Why do you laugh when Mommy and Daddy yell at you but quiver your lip and cry if someone else says anything like no to you?
17. Do you want brothers and sisters?  Do you even know what that means?
18. How come you don't talk more?  I know how smart you are so that isn't it.  It seems like you aren't interested, I can't relate to that ...sorry!  :)
19. Do you know that the skies the limit for you, you can do anything you want to do and me and Daddy will be behind you every step of the way!
20. Do you know that I love you so much it hurts and when you say "Mama", hold my hand, give me a hug or kiss or even just flash me a smile I feel like the luckiest person on the planet?

Love,
Mama

Impress your Mother in Law with this one....I did!!

We had my MIL and her husband over for dinner tonight and I made this Salmon dish and drunken fruit salad. She actually complemented me It was a big hit!!

Salmon with Puff Pastry and Pesto

Recipe courtesy of Giada De Laurentiis

Ingredients


4 pieces of purchased puff pastry, each cut to be just larger than a piece of salmon

4 (4 to 6-ounce) pieces salmon
1/4 cup sliced almonds
1/4 cup purchased pesto
2 tomatoes, sliced

Directions

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.

On a foil-lined baking sheet, place the 4 pieces of puff pastry. Also place the 4 pieces of salmon, being careful to make sure they are not touching. Sprinkle each piece of salmon with 1 tablespoon of the sliced almonds. Bake for 10 minutes.

To serve, place each piece of puff pastry on a plate. Top each puff pastry with 1 tablespoon of pesto. Top the pesto with 2 slices of tomatoes each. Top the tomatoes with the salmon and serve.

Drunken Fruit Salad
Recipe courtesy of yours truly

Fruit of your choosing
I used...Rasberries, Blueberries, Kiwi, Strawberries and bananna's

Mix Orange Liquer with honey and pout over fruit, stir and enjoy!

I meant to take pictures I really did but,  I had a hard enough time cooking with a toddler on my leg!  Argh!  Oh Well!

What's for dinner at your house this week?

April 10th

Two years ago today I had an out of body experience at around 6am...

My life hasn't been the same since I saw those 2 pink lines.  I have been in love with my baby boy since the very second I found out and I am more in love with him every day!  I can't wait to see how his life unfolds...I know whatever it is it will be great!

This is a song I listened to, cried and rubbed my big preggo belly...



It was good to think about all this today after he threw himself on the floor and kicked me....we are fast approaching the terrible 2's!  HAHA!

I GOT NOTHIN!!

No Modivation, No Willpower, No blog posts...


Ever since the weather turned nice all I want to do is sleep, eat sweets, drink wine and play outside with this sweet boy!

So.....I GOT NOTHIN!  Well except....a couple extra pounds, a messy house, empty bottles of wine and this incredibly riveting blog post!


Oh and this happy boy and that is REALLY all I need...right?!?!

What about you?  Got any modivation to share?

RUDE!!

Webster's Dictonary Definition:


adjective,rud•er, rud•est.

1.discourteous or impolite, esp. in a deliberate way: a rude reply.

2.without culture, learning, or refinement: rude, illiterate peasants.

3.rough in manners or behavior; unmannerly; uncouth.

4.rough, harsh, or ungentle: rude hands.

5.roughly wrought, built, or formed; of a crude construction or kind: a rude cottage.

6.not properly or fully developed; raw; unevolved: a rude first stage of development.

7.harsh to the ear: rude sounds.

8.without artistic elegance; of a primitive simplicity: a rude design.

9.violent or tempestuous, as the waves.

10.robust, sturdy, or vigorous: rude strength.

11.approximate or tentative: a rude first calculation of costs.

This is going to make me sound old I know....but people these days are just downright RUDE!

Example #1

Today me and my boys were at a Bulk/Club store and we started to walk through the store a Direct TV salesman tried to get our attention by interrupting our conversation (strike 1) then when my hubby POLITLY said we "were not interested thank you" he proceeded to say "You haven't even heard about it Buddy!". Okay so he has a job to do, he is a salesman I get it but, I don't have to take my precious time to listen to something I have not interest in and especially when I KNOW we definitely don't want Direct TV. Oh and newsflash if you want me to buy something interrupting me and then barking at me is not the way to do it!

Example #2

I work Tuesday's, Wednesday and Thursday's so my Tuesday is like everyone else’s Monday with one difference....they have one day up on me. They have read all their emails, gone through their inboxes and are just generally in the groove. Inevitably, Tuesday morning I will be bombarded with people in my office and buzzing my extension with "a quick question". I have learned to accept this and roll with it! Here is where the rudeness comes in lately I will be in someone's office discussing business and someone else will stick their head in and not say "excuse me" or "stop by my office on your way back" instead they just blurt out their question.....as if they are or their question is much more important than whatever I could be discussing with my other colleague! As if that was not bad enough I also have been getting people who come in my office and see that I am on the phone and just proceed with their question or worse yet stand their and wait for me to get off the phone and I am not talking about outside my door even....RIGHT AT MY DESK!! AAAAGGHH!!!

Okay so these are just 2 of my most recent issues/pet peeves and they may seem like little things but I just feel like people need to slow down and think about how something might affect someone else!

Am I the only one that notices this? Anyway, I for one and going to make an effort to be courteous and respect other peoples time and feelings! Will you join me?

I'MMMMMMM BAAAAAACK!- Wordless Wednesday!

UNDER CONSTRUCTION!

I just wanted to let all of you (if there are any of you left) know that I will eventually be back!  I had some issues with my blog and at the same time decided to have my Blog designed by Jennisa over at http://www.onceuponablog.org/.  I only have 3 people in front of me now and I am so excited, I have my drafts of post written and I am pumped to get back on the horse!!

Hope to see you soon!!

What if the three wise men were women?

My mom and I noticed this posted in the kitchen at Church...PERFECT!!

What if the three wise men were women?


They would have asked directions
Arrived on time
Helped deliver the baby
Cleaned the stable
Made a casserole
Brought practical gifts, and there would be peace on earth."

Also here is a little preview of the birthday bash!  More to come!!

I am having problems with the layout of my blog as you have probably noticed so I am not blogging too much!  My wonderful hubby bought me a new blog design and I am just waiting, I have a month or so to go on the waiting list at http://www.onceuponablog.org/ .  YEAH!  Once I get my new design and everything fixed I will be back in full force!  I hope you will stick around my 12 followers!!

Merry Almost Christmas!!

It's begining to feel a lot like Christmas!!

Almost ready!! How about you??

Happy Thanksgiving- Safe Travels!

Happy Turkey Day!

May your stuffing be tasty. May your turkey be plump.

May your potatoes ' n gravy have nary a lump.

May your yams be delicious. May your pies take the prize.

May your Thanksgiving dinner stay off of your thighs.

MAY YOU ALL HAVE A BLESSED THANKSGIVING!

A Lovely Story About Me!

One day, long, long ago, there lived a woman who did not whine, nag or bitch.
(That would be me...)

But that was a long time ago and it was just that one day.

The End

Sad but true!!!

Words of Wisdom

Written By Regina Brett, 90 years old, of The Plain Dealer, Cleveland , Ohio"To celebrate growing older, I once wrote the 45 lessons life taught me. It is the most-requested column I've ever written. My odometer rolled over to 90 in August, so here is the column once more:"

1. Life isn't fair, but it's still good..
2. When in doubt, just take the next small step.
3. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone.
4. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your friends and parents will. Stay in touch.
5. Pay off your credit cards every month.
6 You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.
7. Cry with someone. It's more healing than crying alone.
8. It's OK to get angry with God.. He can take it.
9. Save for retirement starting with your first paycheck.
10. When it comes to chocolate, resistance is futile.
11. Make peace with your past so it won't screw up the present.
12. It's OK to let your children see you cry.
13. Don't compare your life to others. You have no idea what their journey is all about..
14. If a relationship feels good; it is good.
15. Everything can change in the blink of an eye. But don't worry; God never blinks.
16. Take a deep breath. It calms the mind.
17. Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautiful or joyful.
18.. Whatever doesn't kill you really does make you stronger.
19. It's never too late to have a happy childhood. But the second one is up to you and no one else.
20. When it comes to going after what you love in life, don't take no for an answer.
21. Burn the candles, use the nice sheets, wear the fancy lingerie. Don't save it for a special occasion. Today is special..
22. Over prepare, then go with the flow.
23. Be eccentric now. Don't wait for old age to wear purple.
24. No one is in charge of your happiness but you.
25. Frame every so-called disaster with these words ''In five years, will this matter?".
26. Always choose life.
27. Forgive everyone everything.
28. What other people think of you is none of your business.
29.. Time heals almost everything.. Give time, time.
30. However good or bad a situation is, it will change.
31. Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does.
32. Believe in miracles.
33. God loves you because of who God is, not because of anything you did or didn't do.
34. Don't audit life. Show up and make the most of it now.
35. Growing old beats the alternative -- dying young.
36. Your children get only one childhood.
37. All that truly matters in the end is that you loved.
38. Get outside every day. Miracles are waiting everywhere.
39. If we all threw our problems in a pile and saw everyone else's, we'd grab ours back..
40. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.
41. The best is yet to come.
42. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up.
43. Yield
.44. Life isn't tied with a bow, but it's still a gift.

Pretty Cool! Huh!?!?!

Happy Monday.

Season of Giving

I was thinking today about the upcoming holiday season, how excited I am for Jackson so experience it all, to see family from out of state, bake cookies and give gifts! As I thought about what I wanted my son to get from the holidays I realized how much I dislike the commercial feel that some people and the media give this season.. like it is all about gifts and products. I want my son to understand the true meaning of the holidays and understand what real giving is about! With this said I was thinking about how I could give and what cause I wanted to give to!

Through my excessive blog reading I have come across two opportunities to give this holiday season! I am not asking you to give I am just giving you an option if you are looking to give!

If you have not read or followed Matt Logelin's Blog you should, Matt lost his wife as she gave birth to their daughter. Matt is a remarkable man and a excellent father if fact I am kicking myself for not adding him to my Mom's I look up to post! Anyway definitely read his blog and if you feel so inclined you have the opportunity on the sight to give to the foundation he has started in honor of his wife!

Blog: http://www.mattlogelin.com/

Foundation: http://thelizlogelinfoundation.org/

I know I have talked about 4 Little Men and Girly Twins before! Well they need help! They are going through a hard time and I for one want to help! Read the post that I link to below to find out the whole story. Some people are criticizing her but I just a family going through a tough time I am not concerned with the gory details! But you can make your mind up for your self!

http://www.4littlemenandgirlytwins.com/2009/11/were-asking-you-guest-post.html

Like I said I am not asking you to give I just wanted you to know of a couple options if you were looking to give!

Happy Holidays!

Mom's I look up to!

So I read a lot of mom blogs and recently I have been very touched and filled with admiration when reading a couple posts from a couple mommies I follow and I wanted to share with you!

MckMama-

http://www.mycharmingkids.net/2009/10/yes.html

How could you say it any better!

http://www.mycharmingkids.net/2009/10/wishes.html

My heart goes out to their family, please join me in praying for all of them!

4 Little Men and Girly Twins-

http://4littlemen.blogspot.com/2009/10/god-knew.html

WOW! I can't wait for Jackson to have brothers and sisters!

http://4littlemen.blogspot.com/2009/10/proof.html

All mommies need to get in FRONT of the camera a little more!

Three Little Snaps-

http://3littlesnaps.blogspot.com/2009/10/mommy-mask.html

So True!!

Kelly-

http://www.kellyskornerblog.com/2009/10/treasures.html

I really try to treasure every smile, snuggle, smell and touch!!

I really wish I could put my mommy feeling into words like these ladies have....don't you?

ENJOY!!

October in review

Wheeeew! It has been a crazy couple of months and October was no exception! Wedding, 10 month birthday, 1st Halloween and Monday Night football!

My Husband's Baby sister affectionately referred to as "Aunie" got married on October 17, I was a bridesmaid and Justin walked his beautiful sister down the isle! Jackson......he provided eye candy! Seriously between the magnificent beauty of the bride, Lexie (our niece) the most stunning flower girl ever and my little stud muffin I think these pictures are remarkable! I can't wait to see the professional photographer's pictures!!

Can you all believe my little guy is almost a year old? We got family pictures taken recently...I will be sharing those shortly.

Tonight is Jackson's first trick or treat, so last night we carved a pumpkin he loved getting all the goo out and he was so proud when it was all done and lit up! see.....

Oh and my hubby went on a guys trip to DC for a Monday night football game and had a great time. I think I feel a girls trip coming on! Ha...we will see!

How was your October? I would love to knot what you all have been up to!

Happy Halloween!!!

"Motherhood" the movie!

I read about this Movie on Jill's hysterical blog http://www.scarymommy.com/ Can't wait to go see it!!! I think it calls for a girls night out, complete with adult beverages don't you??

Check it out http://motherhoodthefilm.com/index2.html

Enjoy!!

Belated -10 Months

Dear Jackson,

Happy 10 Month Birthday baby boy!!! For some reason as I write this I find myself tearing up, you are growing up so fast and I just want to cherish every minute! Let me tell you what you have been up to...

• You are crawling around like crazy and you are in to EVERYTHING! You are also standing up and walking while holding on to the couch etc. You are very proud of yourself!
• You still have no teeth
• You "talk" all the time! Most of the time you say ma, da, na and ga but you are starting to try and say more and more things like moooo when we talk about cows! Oh and you do say hi in a very high pitched voice. Daddy laughs because a lot of your time you spend following me around saying ma, ma, ma........MOM!
• Unfortunately you have spent most of the last month sick with little viruses, but you are a trooper and you keep smiling and laughing through it all. It has made you a snuggle bug though and now I can't get you to sleep in your crib because you have been in bed with us so I can keep my eye on you while you were sick!
• You LOVE daddy's helicopter and every time he flies it you get so excited! Daddy is very excited for you two to have that hobby together someday soon!
• You LOVE lady and she adores you! You stand at the baby gate and yell if she is on the other side, you feed her your puffs and lay your head on her when she is next to you!
• You still won't eat veggies much, I sneak them in when I can. You still eat lots of fruit and puffs are your new absolute favorite. The only real big boy food you like is chicken and noodles especially from Bob Evans! Daddy gave you vanilla ice cream when you were sick and you loved that! Oh and water out of a big boy cup is pretty cool to you too!
• You are very good at shopping with mommy and you like going out to eat and sitting in the high chair. We never go anywhere without someone commenting on your red hair and how adorable you are! We think you might be the cutest baby EVER but then again we are a little biased!

This is just a small sample of the things that you do to make mommy and daddy smile. We love you so much and get excited about your future and all of the fun things we are going to do as you get older and we can't wait to see the kind of boy and man you will become! The sky is the limit for you and that is so exciting, just know we are right behind you in whatever you do!

I love you higher than the sky and deeper than the ocean and that NEVER ends!!!!

XOXOXO
Mommy

TGIF... it's time for Five Question Friday!!

I am joining in the Friday fun over at http://fivecrookedhalos.blogspot.com/

You wanna play too right......copy the following questions, paste them to your blog, answer them...then, grab the MckLinky code and link up! I'd love it if you'd link back to me...but, that's not a requirement! ;) And, if you don't have a blog...feel free to answer the questions in the comments below!
Here we go!! (Special thanks, this week, to A., Liz, and Sandy for their questions!)

1. What is the one thing that you reach for the most in a day (excluding phones and computers)?
2. What is the farthest you have been from home?
3. What kind of cell phone do you have? Love it or hate it?
4. Coke or Pepsi?
5. If you could go back and change anything about your wedding day, what would it be and why?
--------------------------------------

1. What is the one thing that you reach for the most in a day (excluding phones and computers)?Nail file, I always chip my nails and I am afraid i will cut my little guy!

2. What is the farthest you have been from home? Hawaii, I went once with my parents and best friend in High School and then once with the family that I was a nanny for. Pretty cool huh.....I am a lucky girl!

3. What kind of cell phone do you have? Love it or hate it? iPhone! and I more than love it, I don't think I could live with out it now!

4. Coke or Pepsi? Diet Coke!!!! I can't live with out it....I think I would have to go to a treatment center! I limit myself to 1 or 2 a day:)

5. If you could go back and change anything about your wedding day, what would it be and why? First of all I loved my wedding day and I tried to enjoy every minute! The photographer commented at my wedding that " I was such a happy bride" me...aren't all brides happy? guess not!! So my advice to all of you is that if you are getting married don't get all wrapped up in the little things and ENJOY YOUR DAY!!

boy did I digress! Oh well it's my blog and I will digress, wander, go on and on, swear....(digressing again) if I want to!!

Any way to answer the question, I would make sure the staff at my venue would have kept all the guests out of the reception area so we could have gotten the pictures we were supposed to get in there without all of my guests there! We were planning on doing most of our pictures there because it was beautiful....see...

Oh well:)

Have Fun!

I'm Back!!! Did ya miss me?

So where have I been you ask...what have I been up to....let me break it down for you....
I've been very busy!

On Business Trips to Scottsdale, AZ

Celebrating my Brother in Law's 40th Birthday's 1980's style

Chasing Busy little Boys
Oh..and Cheering on the Buckeyes!!!

But now I am Back to Blogging!!!!!