workin' it

Moving

2011-02-26T17:22:00.000-06:00

I'm rebranding the blog! Please join us over here from now on:

Our Great Delight

What is Love?

2011-02-14T08:00:00.001-06:00

I read this post a couple weeks ago and it brought tears to my eyes. Love through the eyes of children is so different than how we see it. It is simple and pure. It isn't about flowers and chocolates and jewelry, even though these things are nice.

Sidenote: Actually, I'll pass on the chocolates. Can I tell you about Valentine's day 2003? Chris was living in Canada. I was in Lawrence. And he sent me like 5 (yes five) pounds of chocolate for Valentine's day. Did you know we got married in 2003? That is what every bride-to-be needs...five pounds of chocolate. Riiiiiight.

I hope we can all remember what love is all about today. And every day. Keep it simple. Keep it pure.

Child's Definition of Love

Happy Valentine's Day

Here and There

2011-02-09T09:28:00.000-06:00

Here

There

I really don't want to be here any more. We'll be there in SEVEN days.

House Tour: Master Bathroom

2011-02-06T15:39:00.000-06:00

This is the room that has seen the most transformation. The original master bath was tiny (and so so gross), only had a shower stall and ONE SINK. There was no way we were making it with only one sink.

Next to the bathroom was the worlds smallest walk-in closet. Our plan was to gut the entire bathroom and the closet, put in a double vanity with two sinks and then a separate toilet/bathtub room (with a door) and convert the walk-in closet to a reach-in.

Once all the walls were down we determined it would not be possible to get the toilet and bathtub behind another wall/door within the bathroom. We had already moved that far wall on the right as far as it would go (which even included altering the walls in the hallway).

The construction was finally done in August, just in time for us to have house guests (seriously, who wants to share one bathroom between six adults and two kids?). It took me another five months to finish painting the trim : )

The one thing I wish we would have done differently is having a separate switch put in for the ventilation fan light. The fan noise drives me insane, but the extra light on that side of the bathroom is nice to have. Good to know when we renovate James' bathroom.

I'm always bookmarking new decor. I'm contemplating changing the shower curtain to one of these:

West Elm

Overstock

I would also love to incorporate this print

Etsy

I don't know what it is about those flamingos, I just love them.

We've still got a bit of work to complete the master suite. All the doors need to be sanded and painted, it is just too darn cold right now to be in the garage to do that. And we still need to install the closet systems (soon though!). I was hoping to have the master completed by the end of February, but we'll see. My mind is swirling with ideas and it may take me a little longer to get it completed (and save the money to do it)!

Sources:

Paint: BM Wythe Blue

Floor Tile: Carrara Hex

Wall Tile: Imperial Gloss Subway

Vanity Light: Robert Abbey Chase

Faucets: Grohe Arden

Shower Curtain: Amy Butler Bucharest

SNOWPOCOLYPSE! SNOWMAGEDDON!

2011-02-02T19:02:00.000-06:00

The Great Blizzard of 2011 hit us hard overnight. We estimate we got between 20 and 22 inches of snow, with drifts in places being 3-5 feet tall. After two hours of snowblowing this morning we made our way out for a little snow fun (until it was time to go back inside for some hot chocolate and marshmallows).

It all started last night when we noticed water dripping from the attic fan.

(that white stuff is snow)

Mr. Fix It got it all fixed up so we didn't have any more snow in the attic though.

The view out the window this morning:

(shoveling a path for Sydney so she didn't get buried alive)

The snow was finally over, so it was time to plow (so thankful for the French's who left us their snow blower when they moved to Texas!):

And then it was time to play!

James may (or may not) have been yelling at me to help him up because he was stuck...and really cold.

Did I mention that we leave for Arizona two weeks from today?

The Funk

2011-01-25T20:19:00.000-06:00

I've officially hit my winter funk. Amazingly we have been spared the ridiculous amount of snow the east coast (and Kansas City) have gotten this year. But I'm still in a funk. It's cold, it's dark when I wake up, it's dark when I come home. I'm dreaming of sun and warmth.

That is why in 22 days we'll be heading to the southwest for a long weekend (which just happens to be my birthday weekend)! Top on my list of things to do is visit Taliesin West. Chris and I will also be slipping away for the weekend...without James.

22 days can't pass quick enough.

Summer 2010 in South Haven, MI

House Tour: Kitchen

2011-01-22T12:26:00.002-06:00

Here is the kitchen when we first saw it, complete with pickeled cabinets, bad tile job, no appliances (except for a microwave that didn't work) and terrible lighting (or none at all in the eating area).

We had to rip out the bottom cabinets to raise up the subfloor to be level with the hardwoods,

and while we were at it had all the cabinets sprayed (the same color as our trim).

Appliances arrived about a week after we moved in (due to a shipping issue), and we lived without a fully functioning kitchen for a few weeks after that due to a gas line that needed to be fixed, a water line to the fridge that busted when we tried to hook it up, and just normal other delays that seem to always happen during a full house remodel (as we've come to find out). I think I'm still working off the fast food diet we lived on during this time!

Eventually we got everything hooked up, and finally had the countertops replaced in December and the backsplash was completed this month. I can't tell you how nice it is to have a fully functioning kitchen that you love walking into each day. Of course, this doesn't mean I necessarily love cooking in it!

Sources:

Appliance - Whirlpool Gold

Cabinet Hardware: Home Depot (here, here)

Granite Countertops: Black Pearl

Backsplash: Imperial Bone Crazed Subway Tile

Wall Color: BM Grant Beige

Cabinet Color: BM White Dove

Faucet: Moen Boutique

Rug: Target

Eating Area Light: Shades of Light

Kitchen Light: Bellacor

Weekend Recap

2011-01-16T21:24:00.001-06:00

James started a "mini-kickers" soccer class last week. If the class were only two minutes long, he'd be on his way to the World Cup. Unfortunately he doesn't exactly have the attention span for 45 minutes of soccer yet.

We took advantage of some great sales. Highlight (other than some new clothes), was James crawling under the fitting room door at Gap and running through the store looking for Chris. Luckily I had pants on.

S'mores.

Finger painting

Followed up with 35 minutes of cleaning up toys (= too many toys).

Chris is out of town for the next three days. James is not a fan. And neither am I.

House Tour: Piano Room

2011-01-15T16:54:00.005-06:00

I'm back to update another finished room. Actually, the entire first floor is D O N E, and I'll be sharing the progress as soon as I can get some pictures (its pretty overcast today).

This is the room off the kitchen that accesses the backyard.

Previously it had carpet in the room, which we knew would not work with little kid and dog feet going in and out.

Then it went to this during construction and in the process of moving in.

We lived without a floor in here for months. Finally this fall we had wood floors put in, and while we were at it we had the rest of the hardwood floors on the rest of the first floor stripped and refinished so that all the stain would match.

And here is the room now:

The piano was purchased by my parents 25 (?) years ago when I was learning to play. It is actually over 100 years old and was manufactured in Chicago by the Smith & Barnes Piano Company (incorporated in 1891 and located on Clybourn Street). When they decided to move I claimed the piano and am happy to have it in my home now.

O Night Divine

2010-12-25T21:04:00.001-06:00

Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you.

A white Christmas

Gifts under the tree

Learning to ride

Indestructible wrapping paper

Super James

We are reminded today of the many blessings bestowed onto us, both in the form of the many gifts from each other and our families and friends, and in the form of our Savior whose birthday we celebrate.

Merry Christmas!

First Sip

2010-12-11T20:34:00.001-06:00

First sips of hot cocoa were a big hit tonight. Note to self...buy marshmallows.

Success

2010-12-06T21:46:00.001-06:00

No tears = SUCCESS!

Getting two three-year-olds to look at the camera with a normal smile? Notsomuch.

A Very Magical Birthday

2010-12-05T22:24:00.003-06:00

This year we celebrated James' 3rd birthday with a magic show party. There was a magician, balloon animals, magic hats to decorate, magic wands in the gift bags, and of course cupcakes. The party was a huge hit, James was a gracious host telling everyone "thank you for coming to my party", and I was glad I didn't have 15 3-5 year olds in our house.

Three was the year that he really understood it was his birthday (we were talking about it for months). Three was also the year of Toy Story 3. Three is the year that my baby became a ~~little~~ big boy. He is full of opinions, of "doing it myself", and stubborn as can be. He is very helpful (when he wants to be). He is fearless. He can start a nail with his little plastic hammer. He loves to help in the kitchen no matter if it is baking or washing dishes. He loves to do puzzles and color. He is proficient at using the iPhone. I love to listen to him as his imaginative play is really taking off. I'm pretty sure he has an imaginary friend named Bobby. I can still get a hug out of him, and love to sneak in kisses on his neck.

Happy Birthday James

Ride It

2010-11-14T21:23:00.001-06:00

Riding a bike is hard work*.

We finally made good on our promise to get him a bike when he said goodbye to the binkie. Still trying to work out peddling (forward) vs. breaking (backward). But he is pretty darn proud of that bike.

*Actually, I think it is hard work for Dad.

Wear It

2010-11-12T20:16:00.001-06:00

I have a ton of clothes. We have this huge walk-in closet in the new house that I have completely filled. But I always seem to have a hard time finding something to wear (or at least feel like I don't have anything to wear). I could wear an embellished t-shirt and cardigan every.single.day. But that gets a little boring.

That is why I have loved looking at the "What I Wore" series on Jones Design Company. I think our style is very similar (if only I could wear jeans every day!) because everything she wears I want to recreate! Today Emily posted about how to tie a scarf. So I busted out my ~~only~~ favorite scarf and used her weave example to tie it.

scarf: jcrew, sweater: gap

A few weeks ago I saw this post on Frugal Fashionista, and determined I could recreate that outfit with what I have. I loved this outfit!

cardigan: banana republic, blouse: ann taylor loft, pants: jcrew, shoes: jcrew

I still have a $50 Groupon to Gap (that I got for $25) that I need to spend. Maybe I'll spend it on a new scarf.

Moving On

2010-11-10T20:44:00.001-06:00

This time it wasn't us (we're staying put for a L O N G time). My parents, after many months on the market, sold and closed on their home last Friday. It was the house we grew up in. It held over 20 years of memories (and STUFF). More memories than could ever be put into words.

When I moved to Iowa after Chris and I got married, we always planned on returning to Kansas eventually. I had dreams of a pony in the backyard and our future children going to grandma and grandpa's house to ride. To gallop along the fence line where I had as a kid.

But then we moved to Chicago and settled down. And it became more and more difficult to travel back to Kansas with much frequency. And the snowy cold winters finally got the best of my parents and a life in the desert looked much more appealing.

I am thrilled for my parents that they have the ability and option to move onto a new chapter in their lives. But it is still bittersweet saying goodbye to the home I've always known and loved.

(But I'm not complaining about having a winter escape to Arizona either!)

To infinity...

2010-10-31T18:04:00.001-05:00

...and beyond!

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

Featured

2010-10-23T18:38:00.001-05:00

James' playroom is featured today over at 6th Street Design School! Check it out, as well as all the other awesome playrooms!

JameSpeak

2010-10-22T08:57:00.000-05:00

Long days ago = a long time ago (meaning yesterday or maybe last weekend)
Buffalo shirt = polo shirt (and he made Daddy dig through all his clothes so he could wear one today too)

He also told me he would get ready "all myself" this morning, and shooed me away with his hand and told me to "go get dressed" as he tried to brush his teeth, wash his face, comb his hair and go potty. It went something like this:

J: Mommy, I do it all myself. Go get dressed.
(30 seconds later)
J: Mommy! I need help with the water! (and) The toothpaste won't come out!
(Mommy helps to turn on the water and squeeze the toothpaste onto the toothbrush)
J: Mommy, go get dressed.
(30 seconds later)
J: Mommy! I need help with the water!
(James rinses out toothpaste and Mommy hands him washcloth to wash his face)
J: Mommy, go get dressed.
(30 seconds later)
J: Mommy! I need to go peepee so I don't go in my pants!
(potty time, flush, put the seat down, wash hands with soap)
Mommy tries to water down his "crazy hair"
J: Mommy, give me the brush, I do it myself. Go get dressed.

What I learned this morning:
He still needs me more than he thinks he does.
He needs me less than I think he does.
I (aka Chris) need to replace the faucet in the bathroom so he can turn the water on "all myself".

Edwards Orchard - 2010

2010-10-20T21:58:00.002-05:00

A perfect day

feeding the goats

driving the train

being a turkey

and seeing how big we are.

Going solo on the pony rides

and getting locked in a cage...

or maybe its just a maze

Victory!

Pick a perfect pumpkin

and say goodbye to Edwards

until next year.

2007 / 2008 / 2009

eDesign

2010-10-14T21:36:00.000-05:00

We're getting to that point where I can start decorating versus just renovating. Oh, don't get me wrong, there is still some renovating left to do, but I would much rather be doing the decorating. Which is why I was so excited when I won a giveaway from awesome designer Kirsten Krason at 6th Street Design School! I picked our family room for the design board I won, since we'll be spending most of our time there, and it is the first room you see when you enter through the front door.

Awesome, right? We ordered the sectional that will go in the room last weekend, and will slowly add more pieces...you know, as funds allow.

Let the decorating begin!

let's go fly a kite

2010-09-12T14:20:00.001-05:00

Hands down this was my favorite moment during our week in South Haven. James flew a kite all by himself. My heart swells with pride and awe. How does one's heart take a lifetime of memories like this?

sidebar

2010-09-10T21:32:00.002-05:00

The web is a beautiful thing. Mostly because I have found so much beauty from across the country to be inspired by! One of those sites that I have recently found is jones design company. I think another blog I follow linked to her little girls' nursery and I've been following ever since (browse her blog and you will be too!).

Two recent posts have really spoken to me, and you'll find pictures on the side bar ---> linking to those posts. The first is a reminder to myself that I just can't do it all (and why I will go weeks at a time without a blog update). Obviously I know this, but I really do need to be reminded at the same time.

The second is a about a verse she included in the nursery. I love this verse. And I need to be reminded that even when I can't do it all, the Lord still takes great delight in me. When James is being "naughty" (his new favorite word), the Lord takes great delight in him (and in me even when I lose my patience). My mind needs to be reminded of these things. My heart needs to be reminded of these things.

I thank Emily for her inspiration, and can't wait for what I find next!

wake up time

2010-09-01T21:31:00.001-05:00

James' room is pretty dark with the dark brown paint on the walls and the blackout shades on the windows. The nightlight just hasn't been cutting it. I wanted to find something that would provide a little extra "glow" at night, and found this awesome alarm clock/night light combo. The things I James loves about it includes it speaks the time when you push the right button, it turns yellow when it is time to go to bed and glows green when it is okay to get up. The first morning James sat up in bed and yelled "It's green! It's wake-up time!"
We'll see how well this works this weekend and how late I can push that magic green light back (do you think I can get him to sleep until 10 AM? One can dream...)

night time

2010-08-09T10:00:00.004-05:00

Next up, James' BIG BOY ROOM! The bedroom set used to be Kelly's. It has a bunked bed as well, but we are missing an entire bag of hardware (and hoping it is still in KC and not really missing). There isn't much style right now outside of the totally awesome bedding (that I scored on sale), but luckily two year olds don't have much of an opinion on decor.

Before

During

After

Wall Color: Martha Stewart Ganache
Furniture: This End Up
Bedding: Serena and Lily
Blinds: Smith + Noble
Lamp & Shade: Target
ABC Print: Penny People Design
Adirondack Chair: Pottery Barn Kids (last year)
Football Nightlight (and closet door knobs): Pottery Barn Kids

play time

2010-08-08T20:29:00.006-05:00

We are cranking out little projects over the next two weeks, because we are a) hosting our neighborhood happy hour and b) hosting my entire family after we return from our VACATION in Michigan. The two rooms we finished this weekend are seriously my two favorites. And guess who they belong to? First up, the play room!

Before

After we moved in (and walls were skimmed)
Now

Wall Color: Benjamin Moore Duxbury Gray
Curtains, Striped and Polka Dot Pillows, Light, Art Line: Ikea
Bench: Pottery Barn
Kids Table: Pottery Barn Kids
Numbers Artwork: Penny People Designs (Ikea frame)
Train Table: Santa via Toys R Us
Other Artwork: James originals

enjoy the ride of life

2010-07-15T20:51:00.006-05:00

At least one of us has been working our tails off for the past two months, and unfortunately that has meant that James has not been getting the attention he needs and deserves.

So we walked away from the housework (for at least the day) last Saturday and deemed it "James' Special Day". We went out to breakfast, went downtown to Lincoln Park Zoo, and then went to the FRG fireworks that night. It was great for ALL of us to be out of the house for a while...and to not think of all that is still left to do.

James got to ride the train

and the carousel

and practiced his jumping skills.

"Enjoy the ride of life" is the dedication plaque that was placed below the zebra James chose to ride on the carousel. This has been one bumpy ride the past couple of months, and I know I need to do a better job "enjoying" this time, embracing it for what it is, and to know that there will be smooth roads ahead as well (and to be realistic, I'm sure there are more bumps to be had too). This day was a great reminder of what is really important in this ride we are on.

sneak peak

2010-07-03T21:04:00.004-05:00

Our slave labor (aka my dad) returned this weekend to help out around the house and to celebrate the 4th with us. Lots is getting accomplished, including painting our master bath. Chris finished the floors last weekend and the vanity got delivered on Friday. Now if only I can talk Chris into hiring out the shower tile installation we might have a functioning bathroom before the end of the year : )

(I don't know that I love the wall color...but it will work for now until we get all the fixtures installed and I can see how it looks finished).

hooked up

2010-06-28T21:54:00.003-05:00

I got hooked up with some Toy Story 3 private screening passes from a vendor/supplier at work (seriously, I have no idea what this company does for us, but gladly took the 6 free tickets offered to me through the VP I work for). The screening took place the weekend our good friends were back from Texas visiting, so we were able to bring along James' best buddies (and their moms...no way was I bringing 3 2/3 year olds by myself). Best part about it was concessions were FREE! I totally would have ordered more than just the kids pack if I had known that. Especially since James ate an entire bag of popcorn, 2 bags of fruit snacks and 2 granola bars throughout the flick. One thing I've learned as a mom is to always bring extra snacks!

I've decided I hate 3D movies (they make my head and eyes hurt), and that I never knew a cartoon could make me cry so much. Seriously, if you go see this movie, bring the kleenex. I wasn't minding the fact that the 3D glasses were hiding the tears in the end.

i want my life back

2010-06-13T16:02:00.003-05:00

Everywhere I look all I see are unfinished projects. I hate this house for that...but at the same time know there is such potential if only I could give it the time it needs.

But it is wearing on me. The slowness of it all. James underfoot. Trying to find time for routine activities (you know, like going to the grocery store, doing laundry, even showering on the weekends) in the midst of sanding, priming, painting. I'm sick of talking about it, I'm sick of doing it.

I'm hoping a year from now I'll be able to look back on this post and smile because all those unfinished projects are done. And I will know the blood, sweat and tears that went in to getting it done, and it will be beautiful.

And then I'll be able to take my son to the park, or the pool, or go shopping somewhere other than Home Depot and not feel guilty for what I'm leaving undone.

My Dad is 30

2010-06-02T18:48:00.006-05:00

er...wait a minute. I'm 30. 30 years ago my mom made me a onesie that said "My Dad is 30", so that would make him...well, you do the math!

Some favorite pictures from our weekend in KC of the two Jameses on the tractor (the highlight of the weekend for me).

Happy Birthday Dad.

Peaches for you, Peaches for me

2010-06-01T22:23:00.004-05:00

a surprise

2010-05-31T20:26:00.006-05:00

Me and Kelly

I miss my family terribly. Especially when going through this especially stressful time in our lives. It would be awesome to be able to drop James off for an afternoon, or day, or entire weekend so we could actually make some real progress on the house.

So instead of staying home this long weekend to actually work on the house (or distract James so Chris could work on the house), I hopped on a plane early Saturday morning and surprised Kelly and Scott for Miss Tessa's first birthday party. They were completely floored to see me standing on their porch, but I wouldn't have missed it for the world. Baby girl only turns one once...and they did it up right!

Cotton candy, cupcakes, popcorn and LOTS of balloons

Tutu
and monogrammed bloomers
One
just like that

It isn't a party unless you've got cake on your face (and up your nose and in your ears).

Happy Birthday Tessa!

The Transition

2010-05-27T22:13:00.005-05:00

One of my biggest worries of moving was how James would react and deal with not only a new house, but a new school as well. After speaking with the director at his new school, we made the decision to just make all the changes at once. The Friday before our move weekend we took James into his new school for a half day so he could meet the teachers and get a general feel for everything. After 15 minutes or so he seemed fine so we left him. We took him back to his old school for one day the next week to say goodbye to the teachers and friends he's been with since he was 8 weeks old (I think that was harder on me than on him), and ever since it's been new school all the way. He seriously hasn't missed a beat and loves his new teachers.

They do a great job of putting the kids on the potty ever single diaper change (probably 6-8 times a day). And last week James finally went pee in the potty for the first time! Actually, it shot across the room. With everything going on at home and all the traveling that has gone on I haven't been pushing it at home (actually, every time I ask him if he wants to sit on the potty he says no, so I don't push it). But I'm thinking next week is our week!

James really seems to love his "new house". We took the front off of his crib when we moved, and he's only fallen out a few times : ) We did have a rough patch of him waking up at 5AM for a few weeks, but after we got a door hung back up on his room to deaden the noise he started sleeping until a more manageable hour.

Syd and Lily seem to have adjusted fine as well. We don't have a fence in the yard yet, but James makes sure that Syd goes out and stays in the back yard. He is quite bossy when others don't follow directions...not so much himself.

And because it just isn't fun to post without a picture, my favorite little guy on our trip to Oswego

And my favorite little girl...who just happens to be turning ONE this weekend!

10 on Tuesday

2010-05-25T22:03:00.006-05:00

1. We're still here. We've just been a little busy...

2. Ripping out carpet, installing new carpet. Scraping walls, sanding walls, painting trim, painting walls. Ripping out a kitchen, painting the cabinets, and then putting it all back together again. Gutting a bathroom, moving walls, moving plumbing, moving electrical, and then putting it all back together again.

3. To be completely honest, we haven't done it all ourselves. We've hired a few guys to help with the construction, plumbing and electrical.

4. And my dad was here for over two weeks helping, free of charge. We worked him so hard that he ended up getting an ulcer and a sinus infection when he got back to KC. Okay, I have no idea if all are related, but we worked him REALLY hard. And I (and Chris) will be forever grateful. His work is all over this house, and not a day goes by that I don't think about that.

5. And then Chris went to KC, we all went to KC, and I went to the West Coast for a week. It is HARD to get anything done when a) you both have full time jobs and b) when there is a two year old in the house!

6. In between feeling like I'm going to have a nervous breakdown and the other roller coaster of emotions that comes with renovating and moving into a new home (with a 2.5 year old no less), we've made a lot of progress.

7. Family Room

8. Half Bath
9. But there is still a LONG way to go! We've made a ton of progress in the last week/two weekends, so I'm hoping that I'll be able to keep the 'ol blog updated as we continue to make progress.

10. And a funny picture from our trip to KC. This is for you, Mom and Dad!

This is what we do

2010-03-24T20:23:00.006-05:00

Wear mom's headbands and watch "Minnie Mouse" [Mickey Mouse] on the phone
"Make" [wash] dishes with daddy

And watch videos of Baby Tessa in "Airnona" [Arizona]

Justice

2010-03-23T20:15:00.003-05:00

The message at The Chapel really spoke to me this week. Gary Haugen, President/CEO of International Justice Mission, and former US Department of Justice attorney and Officer in Charge of the genocide investigation in Rwanda, was the guest speaker. I'm embedding the message from the week because it really is worth the 47 minutes it takes to watch. The two things that really stood out to me are:

1) WE are the plan God has for this world. There is no plan B.
2) God is not asking what we NEED to make this world a better place. He is asking what we HAVE, and HE will provide the rest (see the story of Jesus feeding 5,000).

Justice - with guest Gary Haugen from The Chapel on Vimeo.
What do you have to give? That is what is on my mind now.

"How 'bout me?"

2010-03-16T20:20:00.004-05:00

That is what James asks when he sees us doing/eating something that he wants too. Seriously, there is no way we are forgetting about this kid (he wouldn't dare let us). He is a full-fledged two year old; I joke (joke people) that he needs to be on baby Prozac. One minute he is happy, laughing, talking away and doing his thing, and then all of a sudden he is in full meltdown mode. I totally realize it just comes with the territory of being two, but it still tries my patience on a daily basis!

So in honor of "how 'bout me?", here is James' inspiration board for his new, "I'm a big boy" room. Pottery Barn Kids Star Quilted Bedding / Asher Collection / Chambray/Red Sheet Set / Red Letter Pillow / Bunk Beds (used to be Aunt Kelly's!) / Red Color Frame Sham / Alphabet Print / Ikea Kulla Lamp (no longer online) / Chocolate Paint

Moving On

2010-03-15T21:00:00.004-05:00

Next month I will be able to check one item off my "30" list.

We're buying a new house.

And we sold our house.
In three days.
And we had two competing offers.
It's been a busy couple of weeks around these parts.
If all goes well we'll be closing on that house up there on April 19th and our house closes on April 30th.
Be on the lookout for lots of design ides in the coming weeks. The new house needs a lot of work!
We have been blessed beyond our wildest dreams. And are thankful to a God who provides.

139 Days

2010-03-05T15:05:00.003-06:00

That is how long it has been since I ran outside, until today. 37 degrees and sunny felt like summer after another seemingly endless winter. After a quickie trip to Houston this week (seriously, we landed at 6 PM on Wednesday and left at 6 AM this morning) I came home to work, but just couldn't resist the sun and the first run outside of the year.

And after my run, Syd and I went for a walk. That dog loves her walks, and she just doesn't get the attention she deserves, unless its from a certain two year old, which I think sometimes she would rather go without!

Hello 30!

2010-02-17T10:00:00.001-06:00

And I'm excited! I'm excited for the possibilities, for all that is in store for me and my family. I'm finally comfortable with where I am (Chicago actually feels like home now) and with who I am becomming. Becomming, because there is still much for me to learn and to improve in myself. But we are all a work in progress, right?

As I turned 20, I don't think in a million years I could have predicted all that I would do and accomplish in a decade:

studying abroad in Italy and traveling to Switzerland, Germany, France and the UK
graduating college (okay, I could have predicted that)
getting my masters degree
meeting Chris and getting married and moving to Cedar Rapids right after graduation
working at Deloitte as an auditor
getting a cat...then a dog
then moving to Chicago
getting a job at ADP and having five different positions in five years
running a marathon and a half marathon
traveling to Hong Kong and China as Chris finished his MBA
traveling to Brussels, Finland and Amsterdam for work (okay, Amsterdam wasn't work related)
welcoming James into the world and watching him grow into a brave, talkative, and sometimes challenging, two year old

When I look back when I'm 40, I wonder what I will be able to add to this list. But for right now I'm focusing on Year 30. There are big goals and small goals I have for this year:

pay off the car this Spring
buy a new house that is closer to work and has a little more room (the family will expand...eventually...but I vow never to have another winter baby in Chicago!)
take more photos and improve my photography
enjoy a vacation with my family on Lake Michigan
work on creating new and nurturing the existing relationships in my life
focus on serving God

But some days, I know, I'm sure I'll be happy just to make it through the day : )
So I say goodbye to my 20's. You taught me a lot, challenged me in ways I never could have expected, but also brought more joy than I ever thought possible.
And say hello to my 30's.

Lazy Sunday Morning

2010-02-07T10:14:00.004-06:00

I guess in James' world, a lazy Sunday morning means hanging out in your diaper and snow boots! We skipped church this morning because J has a birthday party to attend this afternoon, and we're going to a Super Bowl party after that. It's been nice having a lazy morning to hang out in PJ's (or nothing, whatever floats your boat), to watch movies and play.

Apparently somwhere along the way he got a boo boo. Choo Choo Pack to the rescue!

Ikea Hack - Complete

2010-02-04T20:54:00.004-06:00

Remember this idea I found to turn some $40 Ikea tables into something much prettier? Well, consider this "Honey Do" complete!

The hardware cost more than the tables did, but the total cost was still pretty reasonable for two solid wood tables. And I LOVE them!

a new decade

2010-01-30T17:55:00.003-06:00

A new decade, which means I'm turning another decade older as well (30!). And we're already a month into this new decade and I can't figure out how time can pass so quickly!

Last January I posted my goals for 2009. And I feel like I did pretty well. A quick recap:

Simplicity: Simplify and organize our home (everything should have a place, and everything should be in its place), our finances (I have some bold ideas that I need to run by Chris before throwing them out here) and my life so I can spend what quality time I have at home with my family versus running around.

I feel like the majority of the house is much more organized than it was a year ago. That includes my closet! I started taking my clothes and handbags I no longer wear or can't wear into a consignment shop to subsidize my shopping addiction. The one area that I just can't get a hold on is the basement. We have gotten rid of so much, yet I still feel overwhelmed down there!

I turned over the bill paying to Chris and we're actually utilizing an ING account to transfer funds into to pay the bills. That way whatever is left in our checking account is what we have to spend during the month. And this is working really well! I had hoped to have our car paid off in 2009 (a year early), but we're going to be a couple months short. We should have it paid off this Spring though, at least 6 months early!

I'm still usually running around like a mad-woman on the weekends. Spending almost two hours commuting a day and working a full-time job just doesn't leave much time to get much accomplished during the week. It takes real effort on my part to try and do housework at night after James goes to bed so that we have time together on the weekends to do fun stuff, like go to gymnastics class.

Health: Physical Health (I haven't had a true physical since probably high school), Mental Health (see Joy), and Spiritual Health

I ran a half marathon with my dad, and feel and look great. I'm also going to the gym by my work 2-3 days a week during lunch.

We have become more involved in our church and small group this past year. We also both volunteer in The Great Adventure (Sunday school) every other week. But I still have a long way to go. I seriously lack discipline in carving out time during the day to spend time with God.

Joy: finding and embracing the joy as a mother, a wife, an employee; to live life joyously in 2009!

James bring a ton of joy into our lives. He makes my heart swell every time he laughs, gives me a hug or kiss, or learns something new. He amazes me every day. And I am amazed that he is already 2 years old!

I started a new position at work this summer. It provides a new set of challenges, a new set of people to work with, and will allow me to travel. I'm always up for a change!

I fail pretty miserably as a wife. We both focus so much time and effort on our jobs and on James that time for "us" is severly lacking. However that will be much more of a priority in 2010 (and beyond).

So that was 2009. Goals for 2010 coming up next.

Leavin' on a jet plane

2010-01-15T21:46:00.004-06:00

I had good intentions of doing a wrap-up of our Christmas and trip to KC this month. And to talk about the goals I have for 2010 (it's a big year, turning a decade older and all), and to see how I did with my goals in 2009 (does anyone remember what those were?).

But alas, it is already midway through the month, and as of 10:00 AM tomorrow morning I'm off on a business trip. To Helsinki. And Brussels. And Amsterdam.

So my blog plans will have to wait until next month. But I'll have lots to talk about!

An inch of snow?

2009-12-26T16:19:00.004-06:00

Really? Does this look like an inch of snow to you?

Because that is what was forecasted...even as late as this morning. Needless to say, our planned departure for Kansas got delayed for a day. It appears the snow has let up, hopefully for good (or at least for the next 12 hours), and hopefully the highways will be nice a clear for us tomorrow!

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-25T19:16:00.003-06:00

Next stop, Kansas!

...and to all a good night

2009-12-24T20:31:00.005-06:00

Every Christmas Eve was always the same growing up. We always spent it with my grandpa, eating pizza (you can read more about that here), with my aunts and uncles and cousins. We went to church, sang "Silent Night" by candlelight, then hurried home to eat more leftover pizza, rounding out the day with a reading of "Twas the Night Before Christmas".

This year, there was some familiarity to Christmas Eve's past. But we're also trying to find our own traditions to start for James, for our family.

We made Christmas cookies this morning (the oven is fixed, yay)!

We still ate pizza. It took a couple calls to find one open at 6:00, and when we did get an answer they didn't sound too thrilled to be working on Christmas Eve. But who can blame them?

We started a new tradition of opening one gift on Christmas Eve...pajamas (pictures to come tomorrow morning).

We said goodbye to Charlie the Elf. See ya next year, buddy!

And of course we read Twas the Night Before Christmas (we have this one...it is awesome).

But my favorite part of the day was Christmas Eve service at The Chapel. And in particular this song. My prayer is that we all would remember why we celebrate this day, that this is the day that the Lord sent his son to earth.

"Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord." Luke 2:10-11

Merry Christmas to all...

It must be genetic

2009-12-12T14:56:00.002-06:00

James is petrified of Santa. He had to sneak in behind us to get this picture (as soon as James' face was removed from being burried in my shoulder).

Maybe next year.

Charlie

2009-12-11T22:00:00.005-06:00

It's hard to keep track of a two-year old. Especially when the Big Guy up North is finalizing his naughty and nice list. Good think he sent in some reinforcements by way of Elf. Charlie the Elf. He's been hanging out since the first of December keeping an eye on the little guy for the Big Guy. I'm not sure if it is helping, but it sure is cute to watch him find out where Charlie is each morning.

So far, Charlie has taken a ride on the reindeer.

And this morning I found him hanging out on the KitchenAid. I think he's jonesing for some cookies. Too bad the oven doesn't work. Maybe next week, Charlie.
Charlie is one of many Elf on the Shelf that are helping Santa make sure that all boys and girls are on their best behavior.

honey do

2009-12-09T19:58:00.003-06:00

I saw this AWESOME Ikea bedside table hack (by Lindsay over at Penny People Design, seen via Little Green Notebook) and this has quickly gone on Chris' honey-do list the week before Christmas (since he'll be off work and it will probably be -30 with 2 feet of snow on the ground).

I've been on the hunt for bedside tables for at least a year, and we can get two put together for around $100 for two tables, a little paint and stain and some knobs.

Hopefully I'll have pictures of a finished project next month!

and now he's two

2009-12-07T21:13:00.006-06:00

and he's counting to ten
and abc'ing
and singing
and running
and jumping
and talking
and talking
and talking a lot

he is kind
and loving
and caring
and empathetic

he gives great hugs
and i still love his laugh

he loves to read
especially "girl book"

he loves animals
and trains
and football
he loves his friends (abby, abby church, ryan, nikolas, conner, ben, sydney, mackenzie)
he loves his honeys and papas
and mommy and daddy

and we love him...a lot.

I can't believe he is two, but at the same time I can't believe he is only two (we have a long way to go with this one). We celebrated all weekend long with Honey, Papa, Honey Coleman and Papa Coleman (the way he says Coleman is really cute) with a trip to Lincoln Park Zoo and a trip on the train to the choo choo. By the end of the birthday day he was running laps around the house with only a diaper on and wouldn't go to bed until 10 PM! It took us all a week (and two 3+ hour naps this past weekend) to recuperate.

Happy Birthday, buddy.

This will be the year...

2009-11-26T20:50:00.003-06:00

There was the year that we had Thanksgiving dinner from the microwave.

There was the year that we went to a restaurant buffet and had cold turducken.

There was the year that I was THIS BIG because I was days away from giving birth.

There was last year where we served 11 people a completely homemade meal, when our house really only sits 4 comfortably.

And then there was this year, when our friends Ben and Shanna graciously invited us to their family's Thanksgiving dinner since we don't have any family to celebrate with in the area. And where I offered to bring rolls and salad. And I decided to cook rolls...from scratch...for the first time ever. And after two hours of prep work, the *!&$ oven decided it wasn't going to preheat. And I had almost 4 dozen uncooked rolls that weren't going to get eaten. And an emergency trip to the grocery store was made 30 minutes before we needed to leave.

Yeah, this will be that year...

Happy Thanksgiving

2009-11-26T07:05:00.001-06:00

champy1013 via flickr

"in everything give thanks; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus"
1 Thessalonians 5:18

We have much to be thankful for this year. Our health, our jobs, our home, family and friends. But most of all I think we are thankful for the Lord, that he continues to provide for us, and always will. That he has provided a wonderful church and supportive group of friends.

May we continue to give thanks for everything, for it all comes from God.

Just for the record

2009-11-24T21:56:00.003-06:00

He beat me.

Okay, so the half marathon I ran with my dad was over a month ago, but I have to get this recorded because 1) I can't guarantee that I'll ever run this far again and 2) I know my dad won't!

Dad - 2:16:57

Katie - 2:16:58

He beat me by one second. Way to go, Dad. Pushing 60 and you can still run faster than the rest of us (or at least me...and mom).

Kelly posted a lot more pictures here.

It's coming

2009-11-22T21:03:00.002-06:00

The countdown to two is on. T-minus 6 days...

Frank Lloyd Wright

2009-11-07T21:11:00.003-06:00

Today a friend from work and I went to Oak Park (no, not the mall) to tour the Frank Lloyd Wright home and studio. It was a gorgeous fall day to spend outside, taking in the architecture and wishing a lot that I had an extra million dollars (or more) to actually live in one of them.

The Ginkgo tree outside the home studio entrance

Front Entrance These are on the pillars to the entrance to the studio: Tree of Life, an open book of knowledge, and an architectural scroll flanked by a pair of stork, representing wisdom (and fertility I think).

Hills House
Moore House
(this home sits right next door to the Hills House, which I find amazing as the two are so completely different) Back side of the Moore House

Thomas House - the first "Prairie Style" home in Oak Park

Young House

Cheney House (needs a little work!)

I recently read a fictionalized tale (Loving Frank) based on the true events in Wright's life when we left his family in 1909 to run off to Europe with his mistress, Mamah Cheney, who he built the above home for. It is a fascinating story, that I really recommend reading, and has really peaked my interest in the man and his work. I'm hoping to bring the moms down here to tour the home/studio over Thanksgiving, and will hopefully be able to go on the Wright Plus Housewalk in May to actually go into some of the homes that are privately owned!

Maa's Eat!

2009-11-04T21:42:00.007-06:00

When we were in KC we went here:

It was cold, it smelled, but there were goats (J calls them "maas"). And James was determined to make sure they ate that day.

No one wants to eat this empty corn cob?

I found more corn! Maa's Eat!

Poor Tessa. I think she is still thawing out.

ROAR

2009-11-01T13:54:00.003-06:00

I think that last picture just about sums up how our Halloween 2009 left us by the end of the night; head down, dragging the treat bag behind us.

We partied it up big time yesterday afternoon (and into the night) with a group of friends who generously invited us to trick or treat in their neighborhood and back to their house for dinner, drinks and more good fun. We knew we had all worn out our welcome when every child was in tears from the sugar let down/pure exhaustion at 9 PM. But our little lion had a great time trick-or-treating for the first time (despite the chilly temperatures). And we thoroughly enjoyed having a few hours of hanging out (and saying goodbye to one very specially family) while the kids worked off the sugar consumed during the day.

Can't wait until next year, guys!

*I have a ton more pictures, but I'm trying to be cognizant of the fact that not everyone wants their kids plastered over the Internet.

That's what friends are for

2009-10-29T21:49:00.003-05:00

I miss my friends in KC terribly. The loneliness comes and goes, and it came right before we made the trip back for the half marathon. So it felt good to spend the evening with my best friend and her family. We always joked that we would live next door to each other and our kids would be best friends as well. Life doesn't always work out how you think it will, but that doesn't mean our kids can't be friends the couple times a year they get to play. And for a couple of two-ish-year-olds, I think they did pretty well!

Play-doh time
Lulu

There were many trips around the basement in the wagon

And the race is on!

The whole crew

Punkin'

2009-10-25T22:13:00.002-05:00

Two things:

1. I know I am way behind on updates as we've gone to KC, had a surprise visit from Grandma Honey, Aunt Kelly and Baby Tessa, run a half-marathon, and done some other fun stuff this past week, but it is after 10 and I'm tired. So a full update will have to wait until another night.

2. Aunt Kelly bought this outfit for James. I wonder if she knows these are Bears and Illini colors? (I really can't bring myself to cheer for either one...good thing there isn't much to cheer about).

Autumn

2009-10-13T20:38:00.005-05:00

Every leaf speaks bliss to me,

Fluttering from the autumn tree.

Emily Bronte

Edwards Orchard - 2009

2009-10-10T21:51:00.004-05:00

We made our annual trip (year 1 here, year 2 here) to Edwards Orchard this afternoon with our friends the Frenchs and the Dixons. I ran 10 miles (!) this morning (in preparation for the half marathon next weekend), so I had plenty of room to consume lots of hot cider and apple pie. Unfortunately the trip was cut short when the snow started, but we had a great time despite the cold and completely botched weather forecast (it sure wasn't 50 and sunny)!

Nikolas takes his tractor driving very serious

James loved riding the "neigh" (pronounced "knee")

Nikolas and Ryan

Nikolas, James and Ryan

Annual Family Photo (and Nikolas too)

See you next year, Edwards! We'd appreciate some warmer weather though!

This is what I want to remember

2009-09-15T21:17:00.003-05:00

I don't want to remember that my battery died at the gas station this morning.

I don't want to remember that the bonding on the wire bar behind my teeth broke loose during lunch, and I have to go to the orthodontist for the first time in 14 (15?) years to have it fixed.

I want to remember the way you put your feet up on the bar of the jogging stroller, kicking back as I pushed you along.

I want to remember how you point out every "puppy" along the trail, every "airpane" in the sky.

I want to remember the way your little legs look at the end of summer; tanned from playing outside, bruises up and down your shins, and a scraped knee from trying to do a somersault on the sidewalk.

I want to remember that this summer, you still let me push you along on my runs (and I still had the strength to do it).

A Special Ride

2009-09-05T20:42:00.003-05:00

You took your first train ride today. You waited patiently, eating your fruit snacks, as the train was 20 minutes late. But it was well worth it when you saw that choo choo's light in the distance and felt the rush of the wind and the clanging of the wheels on the track as it pulled up next to us. You sat on my lap as we pulled away, looking out the window at the world whizzing by the window.

Your friends Nikolas and Ryan joined us a few stops later. We were on our way to the Choo Choo for a special lunch that was brought to the table by a real train. And a cupcake too. (We pretended it was your birthday so they could play the birthday song. Don't worry, we'll bring you back when you really turn two). We missed the next train home so we went to the library and read books and looked at the fishes until the next one came along.

It was our special day; your reward since you were such a good boy while Daddy was away this week. I promise that we'll have many more special days, buddy.

And I run

2009-08-29T08:41:00.003-05:00

I am not fast.

If you saw me walking by, you wouldn't think "there goes a runner".

I think that my body is weak.

But then I get up on a Saturday morning,

and I run.

There are walkers, and bikers, and other runners, and the occassional deer,

and me.

I run.

My feet pound along the pavement to the beat of the songs on my iPod.

(thank goodness for iPods)

The sun starts to poke through the trees, the wind is in my face, and I just go.

And it feels good.

Dad and I officially registered for the Waddell & Reed Kansas City Half Marathon this week. Seven weeks to go, seven more miles to add to my long runs.

And I run.

I guess I missed the memo

2009-08-28T20:15:00.003-05:00

Everyone was wearing blue! Scott's parents generously invited us over to their family gathering in St. Louis last weekend, and we were able to get some family shots of the aunts, uncles and cousins together (see more shots on Kelly's blog). Tessa has grown so much since I saw her at one month (even though she is still a little peanut; just moving up to the size 1 diapers and still just barely fitting into the 0-3 month clothes). I'm hoping that 1) I get to see her at Christmas (if not before) and 2) she has moved up to the 3-6 month clothes so she can wear this cutie I bought for her!

Ten on Tuesday - Favorite Weekend Photos

2009-08-25T20:50:00.004-05:00

Shoes

2009-08-24T19:05:00.004-05:00

James loves shoes (shews). He loves to put on my shoes, Daddy's shoes, and his own shoes (successful with the Crocs, its a little more difficult with the others since they have velcro). James also apparently loves little white shoes with red bows on them that belong to little 3-month old girls. Tessa received a pair of shoes this weekend, and James just had to put them on...and was quite upset when they didn't fit.

"elp"

"I'm sure these will fit."

"WHAT?!?!? Why don't they fit?"

The shoes, back on their rightful owner.

Seriously, the pictures do not do it justice. We were all cracking up at James' disgust/frustration that he couldn't get those teeny tiny shoes on his feet. I'm hoping that Kelly got a video of it!

St. Louis

2009-08-23T20:50:00.002-05:00

5.5 hours in the car

First view of the arch and a ride to the top

St. Louis Zoo

Meeting Tessa for the first time

Swimming in the pool

Saying goodbye to Tessa (hopefully not for long)

and another 5.5 hours in the car

It was a whirlwind weekend trip, but so worth it to see our favorite cousin. Lots more photos and stories to share this week. But for now, I'm exhausted!

Fears

2009-08-11T20:45:00.005-05:00

It was hot and muggy this weekend (I guess summer did decide to arrive in Chicagoland), so I bought a sprinkler for James to play in. I thought this was a great idea since he loves the water (and has no problem sticking his face under the faucet, splashing, etc.). But he was seriously terrified. Want to see?

He couldn't get any further away!

Thinking of getting a little closer.

This was about as good as it got.

I'm pretty sure Chris was more wet than James was.

And in other news, our house was infested by BATS (two to be exact) last night. We heard a bunch of rustling in the attic around 1:30 AM, which woke both of us up. And it didn't stop for the next hour, so Chris got out of bed. And his solution to the problem was to climb up to the attic access and open it up to "scare" whatever was up there away. Well, he scared them away all right...right into our HOUSE. Bats were flying around the house at 3:00 AM! Chris was able to knock one of them out with a snow shovel, and we're hoping the other one that was flying around went out one of the open doors, but we're not 100% sure. We've got an exterminator coming tomorrow morning to install some one way (out) access panels on the roof so these suckers can't get in again. But for right now we're just walking around the house with a racquetball racket in self defense. I'm still really creeped out to know that we have, and will probably continue to have, bats around us.

Twinkle Twinkle

2009-08-06T21:20:00.002-05:00

I randomly started singing Twinkle Twinkle Little Star one morning this week, and James started singing along (with hand motions)! I teared up, full of pride and amazement of what he knows, all that he has learned in his short 20 months. And then I gave him a big hug, trying to hold onto what little there is of my baby left, I think. And it was a little bittersweet to hear him sing (okay, like every fourth word), because I know that I didn't teach him the words. The curse of the working mom. There are other people who teach your kids stuff all week long. And sometimes you really have to wonder where they get stuff (his latest "huh?" thing he says is "oh man!". It's really cute though).

But the songs I sing he loves. I make up words to "Splish Splash" and "Rubber Ducky" (for real, I sang the "Rubber Ducky" song sitting in a bathtub in my kindergarten play). And he always wants more.

And some day there will be things that I will have taught him; important things like riding a bike, driving a car, and how to sing the Rock Chalk chant.

Keep learning, buddy. You truly amaze me.

Lions and Tigers and DINOSAURS!

2009-07-30T21:12:00.004-05:00

Jayne and Gary visited last weekend, and we took James on his first trip to the zoo. He LOVED it. He is such a fan of animals, and making all the animal sounds. The dinosaurs were his definitely his favorite. Seriously, I don't know why we waited almost five years to go to Brookfield. There was so much to see, that I know we'll be going back. And you know its a good time when the kid is three hours past his nap and still wants more.

You can see more pics of all the animals here.

Grrrrrmama

2009-07-29T20:26:00.004-05:00

Chris has been traveling a lot lately (he was out of town for three out of the past four weeks). Mom took pity on me and came to spend one of those three weeks with me to be my back-up (aka baby-sitter, dinner maker, house cleaner and party planner).

What it really turned into was a full week that she got to spend with James. She got to experience how fun, funny and BUSY he is (seriously the first day I called at 10:45 and she was ready for a nap). He can't really say "Grandma" properly yet, but "Grrrrrmama" works just fine for us : ) So here is James' week of fun with grrrrmama.

You can see more pictures here.

Day One

2009-07-14T21:26:00.004-05:00

Day one of what, you may ask? Day one of my training for a half marathon! That's right. I'm not nearly as crazy as the last time around I trained to run the marathon, but on paper I think that this looks pretty doable. But, it's only day one (but I made it the full three miles without walking, so that counts for something).

My dad is going to train for it, along with his brother and some other "old" people. So I figure I can keep up with the pushing 60 crowd for sure. It will be quite a family affair if we all make it to October in one piece.

So put it on your calendar. We'll be in KC the weekend of October 17th!

Chicago Marathon, October 2005

Belated 4th of July Pics

2009-07-12T22:02:00.003-05:00

Not sure what to think of the lightening bug

Tired boy. And all he wanted was "more" when the fireworks ended.

My Little Vacay

2009-07-08T21:15:00.004-05:00

I took a week away to visit AZ a couple weeks ago to "help" Kelly with her duties as a new mom. In reality, I did a lot of relaxing (I watched four movies that week), I worked out every morning, had meals cooked for me every night, and my mom and I even got away to Scottsdale for a night to stay at the very trendy Hotel Valley Ho (because we're trendy ladies). In addition we went on a scorpion hunt (with a blacklight, they glow neon green!) and we had the original mai tai at Trader Vic's. I missed my boys that week (luckily there were lots of phone calls to James at night that went something like this: "Hi Mama! Hi Mama! Hi Mama!"), but I'm not going to lie, it was nice to get away for 7 days. I didn't take many pictures (you can see some of the pics I took of Kelly, Scott and Tessa here), but here are a few.

Sleepy Miss T

Backyard Sunset

Can I tell you about my day yesterday?

2009-07-01T08:24:00.002-05:00

Note: Chris left town at 4:30 Monday morning for a week long business trip to Mexico.

Monday evening when I picked up James from daycare, they told me he was very "sensitive" (their code word for clingy, whiney baby), had run a low grade fever and had several loose stools throughout the day (gross, I know). So off we went home to eat a bland dinner (he only ate applesauce and saltines), and we went to get him some Pedialite to deal with any potential dehydration issues from all the loose stools (again, gross). And at 8:00, off he went to bed...or so I thought.

I went to bed around 11:00, only to be woken up at 1:00 to a crying, screaming baby. I went in to change his diaper (no loose stools, thank goodness), and we rocked for about 30 minutes until I thought he was asleep enough to put him down. No such luck. Crying, screaming baby was awake again. I went to get him his cup of Pedialite. That seemed to calm him down some, but he didn't want to give it up, so I just let him keep it in his crib (note, this is the first time I've ever let him sleep with a drink in bed). When I went back to my room, crying, screaming baby was back, but at this point I think he is just playing me and doesn't want to go back to bed. Mom needs to go back to bed though, but that didn't happen for about the next 2 hours due to crying, screaming baby. Finally we both fall asleep, only for James to wake up at 5:00 (and maybe before that once as well, I can't remember now). Mom needs to get up at 5:30, so I just let him cry. I fall back asleep, only to wake up at 7:15! My alarm DIDN'T GO OFF!. Cue frantic mom trying to get herself ready before crying, screaming baby wakes up (I get a quick shower in before that happens). So now I'm not only exhausted because I got only about 4 hours of sleep the night before, but now I'm running over an hour late for work. Off to daycare James goes, with his bottle of Pedialite.

And as I sit down to my desk Tuesday morning, I realize that the shirt I put on has stains all over it. And I'm supposed to meet with the CFO later in the day to discuss my new job (Finance Manager, Mergers and Acquisitions!). So at lunch I run over to Ann Taylor Loft to get myself a new shirt, go to Potbelly for a sandwich, but first do a quick change in the bathroom and throw the other stained shirt in the trash.

I'd like to think that once my child(ren) is to the point where he does actually sleep through the night, and I can sleep through the night (I'm sure it will come at some point, he has to move out eventually) that I'll look back with fondness on these times, and it will be really funny. I do have to admit that the whole changing shirt in Potbelly restroom/throwing away shirt in trash is kindof funny now.

James did sleep all night last night, so I'm thankful for the 7 hours of sleep I got. And I'm also thankful that I'm not a full-time single parent! My mom told me James would get me back for being away for a week. Consider us even, buddy.

They are doing just fine...?

2009-06-24T10:01:00.001-05:00

(this is what happens when mom leaves town)

Heading Out

2009-06-19T19:28:00.006-05:00

I'm leaving in the morning for a week (an entire week!) away from the boys to spend some time with the girls...more specifically Tessa...and my dad down in Arizona. Chris and James are fending for themselves for a week, which will be the longest I've been away from James. So I have to post a few pictures of him playing with his new water table so I have something to look at while I'm away.

Kisses, buddy. I'll miss you!

Summer Lovin'

2009-06-14T19:22:00.006-05:00

Chris said tonight as we were having dinner on the new patio (chicken off the grill, cole slaw, corn and black bean salsa, and homemade strawberry shortcake for dessert...yum!) that it is days like today that make the winters bearable. I totally don't agree (because we have months and months of terrible cold and snow and only a few nice days like this), but today was really nice.

So without further ado, here is the new patio (you can quit hounding me, Mom).

Adirondack Chairs - Chris' birthday gift this year

(See James' new water table over there in the corner? We got it this week, and he LOVES it. More pictures to come this week).

Flea Market Find

2009-06-14T09:53:00.005-05:00

When my parents came for a visit in May, my mom and I went to the Kane County Flea Market. I was on the hunt for some bedroom side tables, but ended up walking away with this:

James now has the coolest toy box on the block! How could I pass up an "Eat Quaker Oats" box when my husband is the King (Emperor? I can't remember how high up he is now) of Oatmeal.

Come to find out that "The American Cereal Co" was only used until around 1908 (according to the Emperor of Oatmeal), so this box is over 100 years old! Knowing how old it is (and how good of condition it really is in) made me feel a little better about how much I paid for it : ) (And no I'm not telling!) But I sure didn't spend anywhere near what this one costs!

Sneak Peak

2009-06-08T21:44:00.005-05:00

Are you ready for this?

2009-06-08T21:07:00.011-05:00

Here is a rundown of our lives the past month. Sorry for the lack of posts/pictures. I've been a little (lot) distracted and busy with work stuff. But that is sure to improve soon : )

We had James dedicated at church at the beginning of May. My parents came to visit (and to see James for the first time since Christmas!).

He's become a big fan of dipping things, and then just eating the condiment. Favorites include ranch and ketchup. I think I was a big fan of dipping as well. I will never live down dipping pickles in Cool Whip. James gives me a run for my money by dipping peaches in ketchup though.

Still a big fan of the swing.

We went back to the petting zoo with our friends Nikolas and Connor (oh yeah, and their moms Emily and Kelly were there too; as well as a couple of younger siblings, Nathan and Avery). The big hit of the day was the pony ride (unfortunately I have no pictures of it though).

James is saying a lot more words now. I think my favorite is "ow-wa". He has lots of "ow-wa's". Scraped knees, elbows, stubbed toes; I think its just part of being a boy. But if you ask, he'll show you all his "ow-wa's". He's a big fan of being outside, of "dydney" and "lililily". And he's quick to tell you "bye bye" whenever you leave the room.

This is going to be a fun summer : )

Just call me Aunt Katie

2009-05-29T20:43:00.002-05:00

After a long wait, Baby Mac finally decided to make HER appearance early this morning. Tessa Harper (but I'm going to call her T-Mac) is our first niece, and we couldn't be more thrilled for Kelly and Scott! It is going to be a loooonnnnnggggg three weeks until I get to see her (and Kelly, Scott, Mom and Dad too)!

Mother's Day

2009-05-10T19:48:00.004-05:00

I bought Kelly a book for her first "pre" mother's day called "I Was a Really Good Mom Before I Had Kids". And I really think there is some truth in that! During your pregnancy you are catering to the every wish and desire of that little baby. French fries craving? Sure! Dessert with every meal? No problem! Your 100% focus is on making your body a haven (okay, maybe french fries and dessert aren't the best thing to make it a haven, but whatever), to be sure that baby grows and develops so he/she can enter this world ready to take that first breath.

And then it all goes downhill from there. From then on you are challenged on every decision you make (breast or bottle feed, when do you start solid foods, do you vaccinate or not, daycare, nanny, stay at home). You go from providing anything your baby desires to saying "no" a lot (a lot). And all these choices are made in their best interest, in your best interest, in the best interest of your family. But it is hard. Every single day is hard. Every single decision is hard. Being a mother is hard. And you never really get it until you step into those shoes.

This is to all the moms, especially mine (and Chris'), out there. Thanks for all you did, all you do. Because no matter how old I get, I'm always going to go back to you (no matter how far away you are). You did, and you do, do a good, a great, job.

My mom and James last weekend

I could live here

2009-05-07T09:58:00.002-05:00

I recently came across elements of style, a blog of a designer in Boston, and she posted today that she is putting her condo up for sale. I love the mix of traditional and contemporary; the creamy walls with pops of color in the accents. This is what I want in my home! I could totally move right in (especially since she is willing to include the furniture in the purchase!).

I've told Chris that if we ever had to move to Canada, that I would need to have Candice Olson or Sarah Richardson design our house (and Quaker would have to up the payroll A LOT because there would be no holding back). I guess if we ever make it out to Boston, I've found myself a designer there, too!

HUT, HUT, HIKE!

2009-05-06T20:00:00.002-05:00

We had lots of fun with my parents this weekend as you can see! Lots more pics to share, but that will have to wait until another day (or probably this weekend).

10 on Tuesday

2009-04-28T20:14:00.005-05:00

1. I'm so excited for our friends the French's! They welcomed another baby boy this afternoon, Nathan Edward. Congrats to Emily, Justin and big brother Nikolas!

2. We've been teased with warm weather, only to be right back in damp, cool days. I've had my eye out for some outdoor toys for James, and after seeing Lyndsay's post today on the the coolest water table ever, I'm going to get this play sink. Looks like fun, huh?

3. My parents are coming this weekend for James' dedication at church. They haven't seen James since Christmas!

4. I think I've talked my mom into going antique hunting with me (either at the Kane County Flea Market or the Volo Antique Mall). I'm on the hunt for some bedside tables.

5. We're having our concrete patio torn out and replaced in the next couple of weeks. And with the money the guy knocked off for paying in cash, we're going to hire a landscape designer to help with the landscape as well (and plant it ourselves). I'm really looking forward to having a nicer area out back to enjoy!

5. In preparation for the backyard work, James helped Daddy this weekend cut down some grasses and rake.

6. I'm loving this dress, but I'm afraid that a new dress and potentially new furniture (on top of the new patio, a replaced water softener and some work that needs to be done on the car) probably isn't a very wise purchase right now. But if it were, I'd wear it with a blue cardigan and orange flats.

7. Another view of the pic posted yesterday. I can't believe how grown up he is.

8. He is so grown up that he helps put dirty (or clean) clothes in the hamper, vacuums the floor and wipes his own mouth when he is done eating.

9. He also says "bye bye", "all done", "more", and "Sydney".

10. Kelly is due with Baby Mac in just 24 days! And I can't wait to be Aunt Katie : )

J-Man

2009-04-26T20:55:00.001-05:00

These are the days

2009-04-24T17:53:00.003-05:00

Leaving work at 4:00, busting out the jogging stroller, cranking up the iPod and hitting the pavement with J in the stroller (its a full body workout, people!). Apparently my water bottle was much cooler than Diego. That's alright, I'm down with Diego. Hope your weekend is starting out as warm and sunny as ours : )

Shiner

2009-04-16T22:36:00.002-05:00

James finally graduated to the toddler room last week (hurray!) and he came home with three (yes three) incident reports in seven days! Climbing and falling (bump on the head), climbing and falling (bloody nose), and climbing and falling again (big fat goose egg on the forehead and a black eye). You would think the kid would learn! Maybe he did as we haven't had any more incidents since Tuesday. Or maybe this is just what little boys do. I'm sure this won't be the last shiner.

Friday is supposed to be a glorious day here in Chicago, so I'm taking the day off, getting a much needed massage, and getting some errands done that I've not been able to fit in the past month. And we're having company Saturday night (Nikolas is coming for a visit so his parents can get a night out before baby #2 arrives in just a couple weeks)!

Happy Weekend!

Easter

2009-04-13T20:17:00.013-05:00

We spent our post-church Easter lunch with our friends the French's (since they don't have any family in town either!). The boys were big fans of the bunny cake that Emily made, but not such a fan of hunting for the eggs that we "hid" outside. But the boys looked too cute and there wasn't snow on the ground, so we called it a successful afternoon!

I need to remember these moments

2009-04-12T07:17:00.003-05:00

I love to be the one to get James out of bed in the morning (you know...as long as I'm already awake, right?). As soon as I walk in his cries subside and as I lift him out of the crib he cuddles up to me, resting his head on my shoulder, wrapping his arms around mine. He has taken to patting me on the back as I rub his. It is really cute. I love to sing my good morning song to him as he slowly wakes himself up and we go to the window and say good morning to the trees and the birds. I need to remember these moments.

I love the look and sound of pure joy as we play outside. His favorite activity is to be picked up and to spin in circles, the afternoon light hitting his face, his head back, laughing. As soon as we stop he says "mo mo" making the sign for "more". So as soon as we have both regained our balance, we spin and spin again. I need to remember these moments.

I need to remember these moments when I'm rushing out the door in the morning trying to make it to an 8:00 meeting and traffic is at a standstill...AGAIN...and I'm reworking the plan file...AGAIN...and all of a sudden it is 5:05 and I have to get out the door so I can pick up James before 6:00 and I'm sitting in traffic...AGAIN...watching the clock as it ticks closer and closer to the cut-off...5:45...50...55...58...just in time to run in, last one to be picked up...AGAIN...drive home to start dinner, but James is hungry now so he's picking up dog food off the floor and eating it...AGAIN..."James, don't eat the dog food, that is for Sydney!"...give James some goldfish to tide him over, hoping this doesn't mean he won't eat anything for dinner....eat...play...bath...8:00 and I'm exhausted but there is more work to be done still.

I need to remember these moments so during my hurried day I know there is something to look forward to when I get home, my sweet, smiley boy, that makes it all worth it.

2009-04-10T21:17:00.002-05:00

"rid me of myself...I belong to you"

These words really moved me tonight at the Good Friday service at church. There are parts (sins) of us all that I think we would like to be able to forget about, to leave behind. The wonderful thing about our God is that he sent his son to bear those sins for us. We are able to take ownership of our sins, and then rid ourselves of them because of what Christ did on the cross for each and every one of us.

Enjoy your Easter weekend! We'll be spending Sunday afternoon with the French's and I'm sure I'll have pictures to share.

Dollar Tree beauty, would you dare?

2009-03-24T22:14:00.002-05:00

This article from Suburban Turmoil cracked me up. Would you/could you buy your make-up from the Dollar Tree? The result looks like Paris Hilton gone bad!

I tried to cut back on the cost of some of my beauty products, but I'm not having much luck. I used some Herbal Essence shampoo when my Bumble and Bumble ran out and I HATED it. The B&B is pretty pricey, so I'm going back to Aveda (slightly cheaper) for a while to see if that suits my hair fancy. I checked out "Don't Go to the Cosmetic Counter Without Me" by Paula Begoun to research facial products, and I'm in process of trying out her line of products (first set I got did weird stuff to my face, on to set #2). The book is a great resource if you have any sort of inclination to research the best buys in face wash, toner and moisturizer (as well as make up), because her staff has tried them all (and she doesn't just recommend her own line).

So after all this work and trial and error, I really don't think I'm going to save any money by cutting back on beauty products. Guess my couponing will have to do : )

Lucky Boy

2009-03-19T21:16:00.005-05:00

Aunt Laura sent James a t-shirt for St. Patrick's Day (because it is her favorite holiday and all). This is the first year out of 5 that it has actually been warm enough on St. Patrick's Day to be outside without a coat, hat, gloves, etc. And actually it has been fairly nice all week, so we've been spending a lot of time in the backyard after we get home from work/daycare. James loves it, we love it, and Sydney especially loves having someone to throw the elephant around again!

Daddy's home!

James loves to throw his ball (or "bawl" as he says it)

Grow with Baby Mac

2009-03-16T20:43:00.004-05:00

I'm not feeling so hot (I think I'm coming down with the plague that swept through the finance department), but here are a couple of shots from Kelly's baby shower this past weekend in Kansas City. My cousin and I hosted it at her house, and Erin did a FANTASTIC job on everything! More to come later in the week, because right now I need to sleep...

Favorite Activities

2009-03-16T20:29:00.008-05:00

Putting on mommy's gloves

and hat.

Chowing down on pancakes

and a little bacon.

But my favorite is a little Iams

with Tabasco!

Kansas City Here I Come

2009-03-13T14:24:00.003-05:00

I'm heading to KC this weekend for Kelly's baby shower (yay!). I had good intentions of getting some pictures posted this week of Mr. J (as the grandparents are getting restless to see pics of this growing boy), but time got away from me and it just didn't happen. Sorry. We seriously just haven't taken that many pictures lately. J is just a hard one to get to sit still long enough to snap a picture! He is always on the move; as soon as I get the camera in hand he is walking toward me, dirty hands all ready to touch the lens. But Chris did manage to get a few shots of him the other night with his favorite thing out of the fridge (a bottle of tabasco sauce) and eating dog food (okay, I think we usually catch him before he eats it, but he seriously really likes dog food).

This will only be the second time I've been away in 15 months. And it isn't so much that I need a weekend away from them, I need a weekend away from all the stuff I do on the weekends that takes me away from them anyway. A weekend where I don't have to pick up the house (over and over and over again), do the laundry or make a meal plan for the week, make the grocery list and actually go to the grocery store is much needed right now. Next week we'll probably be eating Mash and Cheez-its all week since Chris is in charge of the list making and grocery buying, but its only for a week, right?

Have a great weekend! I'll have lots of pictures next week, promise!