Mini Vacation

We took the weekend and went to check out Duluth. We've been there before, but now we are looking at it with new eyes. Eyes that are realizing that this is going to be our new home. We are currently still planning on living separately during the weeks and spending that weekends together. It really is a hard decision and not ideal, but it is what it is right now. Things can change, but we are prepared for this to go forward, too.

We stayed at a water park hotel, and Sean loved it! The water was warm, but he still got cold so we took warm up breaks. He loved the kiddy area with the zero entry, slides, and water falls. Graham loved the big kid slides, and I loved the hot tub. I am kicking myself for not bringing the camera. I have a great memory of little smiles and giggles, and Sean can even tell us the story of the pool. He did great on the drive, it was the longest one he has been on since the last time we went up with Alli, Amy, and Braeden. Fun times ahead!

Jewelry...

Who would've thought my son would've had so much fun with my jewelry? This is what I came out of the shower to find last Wednesday morning. I couldn't resist a picture to share with his girlfriends later on!

New PJs!

Auntie Alli spoils the young ones again this year by getting them the lush Gap PJs for an early Christmas present! Don't they all look so cute! She took them upstairs to change them while we were finishing the cleanup from Thanksgiving. My son comes down the stairs screaming with excitement! They are his favorite.

Sean's first snow pants and boots...

The day has finally come when Sean can be bundled up in all his snow gear! I was really prepared for the scene in "A Christmas Story" where the kid can't move, let alone put his arms down! But my son surprised me! Not only did he help me put on his gear, he walked right outside and into the snow. It was like he just "knew" what to do! He took his dad for a walk down the sidewalk, then helped him shovel. He talked the entire time and wants to go "ahee ide" (outside) every time he passes the door!

Duh!

I have been trying to switch my background for days now. I finally had a revelation while I was just about to give up...DELETE the old one first! Ugh! That is all it took. I am slowly but surely catching up to some of my techie sisters and friends!

Our little helper...

Our little Sean is the best little helper! Whether he is putting away wash clothes or toys, dusting or unfolding laundry, he does the best he can at all times! Tonight we had him help us decorate the Christmas tree, and he loved every minute of it! There is one perfect section where he placed all of the ornaments that he could, multiple ones on one branch! Just precious! What an exciting and amazing Christmas this year. He is noticing everything and loves to see all the lights and decorations. I wish for this month to last long enough so we can enjoy all the beautiful things and the magic of the season! Life just gets better and better!

Crayons

We had Braeden and Emma over this weekend for a little sleepover. Oh what fun it was! Graham, Sean, and I went out on Saturday to stock up on the good stuff. We got new coloring books and crayons for all three. Well, we bought Braeden and Emma's coloring things separately and Sean's was a package deal with the big fat crayons. I should have known that he would've wanted the "normal" crayons I got for his cousins. He tried to get theirs the whole time, not enjoying his big fat ones at all! What a bad mom! Of course the cousins didn't want to share their brand new, pointy, beautiful crayons with a crazy 1 1/2 year old who might eat them and/or break them for fun! Needless to say, I bought him some "normal" crayons today. It was so fun to see his expression of disbelief! He kept handing them to Graham and saying "Emma," and we had the joy of telling him that they were his! He played and played with them; colored, sorted, lined them up, pushed them on the floor, boxed them up, dumped them out, etc. Loads and loads of entertainment. Who would've thought!

The F Word...

It has happened. The F Word yelled loud and proud out in public. We know it wasn't used in vein. We think that it is a name for something; a big truck, a star, something that is stuck. Right now we are hoping that the people at Best Buy forgive our foul-mouthed son! How embarrassing! We couldn't help but laugh under our breath at this. He is so innocent!

PS: He has also gone peepee in the potty 3 times! Most of it made it into the potty, too!

Potty Training?

Two nights ago, Sean went potty on the potty!! Well, not really in the potty, more like all around it with a little in it. He sits on his fun potty before he gets into the tub...we got lucky and made a huge deal out of it. I am hoping it will happen again soon, so we can start encouraging it. So much excitement over a little pee. Life has changed.

"Eat Food"

Last night I was upstairs cleaning up after dinner and Graham had Sean downstairs playing with him. Well, I hear "something" dropping into the dogs' food dish. Thinking it was just toys, I ignored it for a minute. It kept happening, so I went to check it out. There was Sean feeding Gus (who NEVER misses a meal or extra snack). He was taking a handful of food from the closet and walking to the food dish, repeatedly. Gus, tail waging and all, lapped up every morsel. I asked him what he was doing, and he said "Eat Food." Way too cute!

Doots and Itches

Well, Sean had to say goodbye to the "doots and itches" today (spooks and witches). Again, cracks us up! My mom has these figurines out on the driveway and every morning and afternoon he kisses them and talks to them. I am so glad Christmas is coming so that he will have more fun to see/do. I feel sad for him since all the "doots and itches" are getting put away for the year. Poor buddy.

Dancing

I love watching "Dancing with the Stars," and what makes it even better is that my son loves to dance when they are dancing on tv! Cracks me up! He has a blast, we even clap when the song is over. A great way to wear him out before bed, or at least try to wear him out.

Medical School, here we come!

Graham found out yesterday that he was accepted to the University of Minnesota Medical School Duluth! We are so excited and nervous at the same time! He starts in August and will be in Duluth for 2 years. The remaining 2 years will be spent at the U of M in the twin cities. We are so proud.

Costumes

We took the kids a few weekends ago to get fun Halloween pictures, but they just didn't turn out. We decided to try again, but this time on our own. Here is the crew on our front step having a blast. Sean loves his costume and even is saying "roar" in one picture!

Ghost Feet

Sean went to Amy's house today to play and make "Ghost Feet." When he woke up today, I told him where he was going, and he just couldn't wait. Can you tell he had a blast?! Great memories!

Getting ready...

My mom and I continued our tradition of spooky treat bags. We worked on them this weekend and are set for Halloween! Nick, Amy, and the kids came over on Saturday to take Halloween pictures in front of our house. All four of the kids were so cute and had a blast! It really is amazing how much Sean adores his cousins. They can do no wrong in his eyes.

It was a great weekend of catching up. I was able to see all of my sisters and spend a little time with each. Better than nothing! It is amazing how we can all live in the same town, but have a hard time connecting. Life is too short.

I guess the funniest thing that happened this weekend is from Sean. He loves looking at the Halloween decorations, we call them "spooks" and he calls them "doots." Well at my mom's house, he was saying hello to all the "doots" and I was telling him what they were. When I said "witch," he said "itch." Now he can't stop talking about the "itch." Between that and the "moo" (moon), we are busying searching for one or the other. Have a great week.

Horse, Apples, Goats...

Graham and I had planned on taking Sean on a mini vacation over MEA break, but it just didn't work out. So we promised to do something fun and new with him. We took him to an apple orchard where he got to experience many, many new things!

He rode a big horse named Tootsie! Graham led the horse and I had an arm around Sean while trying to take pictures. It was amazing, and he loved every second of it! So sweet!

He was able to go on a tractor ride out to the orchard where he picked apples! Some were easy to pick, others not so much. He'd pick one and put it in the bag. Toward the end, he picked one and began eating it right there! Don't be alarmed, there are signs posted everywhere telling us to try the apples on the spot. It was adorable!

Then we went into their "petting zoo." Remind me next time to leave the animal food at the door. We walk into this gated area, carrying the "food" sold to us at the counter, when we were nearly run over by a family of billy goats! It was quite scary for Sean, because they would not back off! We didn't know that the animals ran free, and it was a cool experience, that is once we ditched the "food!" He was able to pet the babies, see some cows up close, and even be followed around by an Alpaca (kinda scary for mom)!

He had so much fun that once we got him fed and to bed for his nap, he couldn't stop talking about the horse! Needless to say, no nap. Which later meant, no date for mommy and daddy because he was soooo crabby. We couldn't leave him with a sitter acting like that! We improvised and ordered pizza after we put him to bed early. Worked out great for everyone involved, except the sitter who I canceled on. Oh, well. Life happens.

Facebook

I have finally joined the ranks thanks to my husband! He is so much more "with it" than me. I try. I have a new computer, so I need to get my camera hooked up and start downloading pictures. That is my MEA break goal!

New Stage

We have hit a new stage at our house. It is called "Independent Sean" and it can be wearing and exciting all in the same time.

The other day he was in a time out in his crib for hitting (the "wearing" part) and he was being awfully quiet, so I thought he was ready to come out. Low and behold, I walk in and there he is straddling the crib, swinging his legs, and smiling the biggest smile. I couldn't help but smile inside as I ran to get him safely down. I tried not to make a big deal about it, hoping he'd forget he'd done it. Wrong. His time outs are now on the chair in his room. At bedtime, he is usually too tired to goof around (as of right now), but daddy plans on changing it to the toddler bed very soon.

He loves to be outside and recently we took him to get pumpkins. He loves them. We got a quite a few and used them to decorate the front of our house. He calls them "apples" and rearranges them whenever he can! He also has discovered the moon, and he always wants to look at it and bring us with him. We read "Goodnight Moon" regularly and do many window checks. These would be the exciting times that we are having.

He is truly amazing! Although, I could do without the hitting! Where do they learn that!

Getting with the times

I have been admiring everyone's blogs and didn't now how to get mine so cute! My sister finally gave me the directions. Next, I am hoping to get my pictures updated. We'll just see how fast I move!

We have spent what seems to be millions on the cutest toys for our growing boy. The toys he prefers are the life-like toys we got at Tractor Supply of work trucks! He carries them everywhere. Runs them on the floors, window sills, counters, tables, legs...where ever he can. We are also learning about his temper as of lately. Wow! All I can say is it can't come from me;) I am praying that the timeouts will help this "stage" move quickly. I am praying that it isn't permanent!

Hope you have a fantastic Monday. Mondays are the toughest day at my house. It is so hard to get back into the swing of the week again.

Husbands...

"I have a new appreciation for all you do," are the words spoken by my husband after I wrenched my neck and back the other night and HE had to do all the weekend chores. He did a wonderful job, and I am thinking that this is great! We recently watched an "According to Jim" TV show (one of our favs) and the main character ran an errand for his wife, and he did a great job at it. Soon his wife was sending him on all of her errands. His motto, "When you do a good job, it becomes your job for the REST OF YOUR LIFE!" Made us laugh then, and now I can totally relate to his wife. :)

I just don't know when this neck thing will heal... ;)

Back On-line...Again!

I have to apologise for being so slack on this! I think summer went to my head and I didn't keep up with anything! Now that I am back to work, I am on a regular schedule and getting this accomplished. So, here is a quick catch up on our family :)

Graham is still working on smaller projects around the area. He is staying very busy building decks and remodeling bathrooms. Seems people are in the mood for a little change, so that is good for us. He is deeply invested in applying to medical schools. It is a lengthy process and he is holding it together well. He is a really great writer, as he is writing tons and tons of essays. We are praying for the next step. . .an interview. . .because getting to talk with someone will be his way in. I have faith, and I know there is a plan for him/us, and I am excited to see what that will bring. Keep him in your thoughts.

Sean is absolutely incredible! He is almost 19 months and amazing us with all his new skills and desires. He is so passionate about everything he does. He is a climber, he would climb to the highest point of anything, that is if we let him. He loves cars, planes, and trains. He makes all the motor sounds, so boy. He is also learning about "time outs" and so are we. He laughs and thinks we are playing around, so that is working well. We put him in his crib and he has a hay day throwing everything out. He is able to make fun out of about anything. Mondays are the hardest day for both of us. I hate dropping him off and he hates me leaving him, but then it is over and we are both on our way for the week. Check out his new pictures at http://www.dinsmorephotography.com/ Click online photos, type in "king," and the code is Patsy. Enjoy. He is truly a gift.

I am busy learning a new grade, I moved to teach 2nd this year. I am loving their independence and I have the pleasure of having some of the same kids again. I am tired of writing lesson plans, as I can't reuse anything from previous years, but that is how it goes. I have a student teacher working with me this fall, too. She is eager and tries hard, so it is fun teaching her, too. Otherwise, I am trying to organize my time better so that I can get in my exercise. I think I need to get up at 5am, but who am I kidding?! I hate mornings! Nights are tough because I always have school work to do after Sean goes to bed, so I have to figure it out.

We are looking forward to getting our basement done soon. Graham is working on the trim, then it is just carpet! Hooray! Hope you all are well. I will update pics soon.

Funny and true!

We met some friends for dinner last night and got home a little late. Sean was still up, so I gave him his bath and put him to bed like a normal night. Recently, Alli babysat and bought him a new big boy blanket and new toys. Well, I had his new blanket in the wash, so I used his old favorite. After awhile, Graham and I hear our little man's voice calling, "mommy, mommy..." I go in to find him standing in his crib with his old blanket saying, "No, No, No..." while throwing it over the side. Well, his new one was now dry, so we went and got it, put him back to bed, and didn't hear a peep until this morning. Too funny!

We have a swimmer!

Wow! The warm weather and warm pool brought out the swimmer in Sean. We spent the 4th, 5th, and 6th hanging by the pool, playing, relaxing, and having fun. He spent the whole time on the steps or in my arms in the pool! Much different from the last time when we had chattery lips and cries to get out! It is so exciting to see him grow and learn.

The 4th was nice. We were at the pool all day, then headed out to the lake for the evening. Sean came down with 5th's Disease (hand, foot, and mouth) so we had to call it an early night and missed the great fireworks. Oh, well, next year! Seems like there is a major case of this disease going around. We are not sure where he got it, but friends and cousins have it too. Yuk. Needless to say, we are staying away from other kids for awhile. He is finally feeling better and not so sad. That is good news!

To Do Lists

Today I decided it was a good day to look back at the "to do list" I made for myself at the beginning of summer. One item intrigued me more than the others; pictures. See, I have this huge pile of pictures taking over a rather large area in our office, so today was the day to hit it. I recently bought this amazing picture frame that displays Sean's first year and a couple of nice photo albums, so I was all set. I couldn't believe how much fun I had and how many memories came flooding back. It was a powerful, emotional, and amazing afternoon. I spent Sean's whole nap in there and got the majority of it done. I will go back and finish some day, but for now I am going to enjoy looking at my new frame of Sean and my new albums full of my growing little man.

As for the rest of the list...I still have time...I have gotten a few things checked off...nap times are not long enough...I might have a small case of ADD...I'll keep you posted!

Graham is currently building a deck on a house across the pond from us. It is an awesome thing to watch him cruise through it! He is incredibly talented and fun to watch.

Happy 4th of July to you all. We are heading to the pool, golf course, and lake for the day. Should be super fun. The weather is supposed to be fantastic! Hooray for some good summer days, finally!

Finally!

First, sorry it has been sooooo long! I have no excuse...except...school ended and summer began and we haven't looked back! It has been an awesome summer for me! I have been able to stay home with Sean, and I am loving it! It is actually going to be really hard to go back to work in August! I am beginning to get the same feeling I had when I knew my maternity leave was coming to an end. Some day I won't have to worry. I know it will be fine when I return.

We are actually looking at putting Sean in a daycare for one day a week, and then keeping him with my mom the other four days. I am really nervous about it, Graham is really excited about it. We want him to socialize and have fun with other kids. He plays with his cousins, but we just want him to get more. Make sense? So...my friend Mandy has given me her daycare providers number. I need to call and get him going and get him used to it before school starts. That makes me sadder, because I don't want to give up a day, let alone minutes with him. Sick, I know. I have some friends who can't wait to have a "break", not me. Graham wants to go away for a night, I know we need to but YIKES! That is my goal for this summer.

Blah, blah, blah. Hope you are all doing well and have faith in me. I will get back into working on this regularly. I have gotten side tracked a lot this summer!

Cousins

You gotta love the reactions kids have with one another. Last Friday we brought supper to Amy and Nick's house. When we were driving down the street, Sean's legs started kicking and he started squealing. When we pulled into their driveway it just got louder, and I could have sworn I heard a YAHOO! back there. Incredible! My mom had been telling me about this during the week when she'd go visit (she's Sean's daycare). It's not that I didn't believe her, I just thought she was exaggerating. Nope, dead on! Super cute!

Meanwhile, he had a ball. He didn't eat because he was too busy watching, listening, laughing, and playing. He crashed when we got home. It is amazing what a little fresh air and cousins can do to your system!

Busy, busy!

We have a graduate! Graham walked the stage on Saturday and his mom, Sean and I were able to witness the grand occasion! We are so proud! It is also nice to have our husband/dad back! He has been studying like a mad man, and it is nice to just "hang out" guilt free! I will enjoy for now, since I know Med School will be no different.

My sister Amy had a baby boy on May 9th at 2pm! His name is Charles James Otto, and we'll call him Charlie. He is a honey of a babe and weighed in at 7lbs. 2oz and was 21 inches long. Check out his pic!

We are now putting Sean to work. He is a great house keeper, but prefers to work outside. Dirt, rocks, grass, water, rain, and sand don't phase him. We are so proud to have a outdoor kid! Now to get him some grass to play in, and maybe a fence to contain him...He keeps us on our toes!

School is winding down for me and I can't wait. This year is different than previous years, and I just can't seem to finish quick enough. I think we all have the summer itch, kids and teachers. I am looking forward to a summer playing with my boy, watching Good Morning America, and staying up late with no consequence. Vacations are wonderful!

Have a great rest of your week. Finally it will be warm enough to go without coats! Bring it on!

Wanderer

We spend most of our time after work outside playing in the driveway (until we get a yard). I really like having our dogs out there, too. They are usually not too poky and stay by us. I always keep their leashes on, so they are easier to grab if need be. Gus has been always been a protective dog. A couple of weeks ago we were dog sitting Max and Bella, and Graham decided to take all four dogs and Sean for a walk. They met one of our new neighbors (she lives kitty corner to us), and she stuck her hand out for the dogs to sniff. Everyone's tails were wagging and they were licking her. That is everyone except our beloved Gus. He nipped her. Great first impression! He has never done this before, so we are in shock. We truly believe that he was stepping into his protective roll, protecting Sean, Graham, and the other three dogs and that was all he could think to do. Listen to me make excuses. She was very nice, I still need to make her cookies. Anyway, Sean, Gus, Nala and myself were all out playing in the driveway last night. When I realized I was missing a dog, I got nervous because it was our little nipper. Not the one you want roaming a new neighbor meeting new people...luckily we found him behind a neighbor's house. It took awhile and my heart was racing, man these dogs can put you through the mill! He will now stay safely in the house until we have a nice fence to keep his poky self confined.

Outside anyone?

Who would've ever thought that being outside in the hurricane winds could be so fun?! Sean absolutely LOVES to be outside! It doesn't matter if it is freezing cold, hurricane winds, or raining, if he can be out he is one happy camper. We are working at getting a yard to play in, so as of right now we play in the driveway. He can't stop talking and pointing and running and touching and picking up sticks, rocks, dirt...he has a ball. The toughest part is coming inside...I am sure the whole neighborhood hears his desire to stay out.

Graham...

Well, he is graduating on May 10th and is looking forward to being done with all the homework for awhile. Sean and I are looking forward to some extra time with him, too! He didn't get into Medical School for this next school year, so that has been a big disappointment for him. He has his game plan for this next year and will be applying again for the following year. Please keep him in your prayers. We are so proud of him and can't wait to watch him cross that stage! It is a dream come true to graduate and it is only the beginning! He is so smart and caring, and I know that one day he will be a great doctor. Right now though, I am just so darn proud of him!

Black Eye :(

Our little baby boy got his first black eye and deep cut last week. He was playing in the family room like he does everyday, he played by the sofa table that he always plays with, and that day he happened to fall. Normally he bounces off of things and is up and running again. This time it sounded different and with the delayed reaction, I knew it was a bad one. I saw a bump on his forehead and thought that was it until I was rocking him and saw the blood coming from his eye lid. We checked it and it was split pretty deep, so we made an unexpected trip to Papa's house. Thank goodness he was home and was able to fix him right up. He only cried for a little bit, then he was ready to play. What a tough kid I have! My dad says I am in for it! I just hope that means dirty clothes from playing so hard...I'll post pics of the eye soon. It is looking better now and healing well.

We have been busy at our house. Graham is mudding and taping the basement, meaning it is one step away from paint! Yahoo! I have decided to switch grades again next year. I am going to go to 2nd grade and am looking forward to it. First grade was fun, but it just wasn't the right fit for me. I feel really good about my switch and am looking forward to moving rooms and seeing some of my little ones again. Some, not all:) Sean will continue to go to Nana's house. We are very lucky. He walks in like he owns the place and his best bud is Papa.

We are still sick! It has been a tough week for me. I haven't been able to catch a break. I told Graham to admit me to the pysch ward tomorrow if I am not better, because I am going crazy!! My class caught on to my sickness, but instead of being on their best behavior decided it was time to take advantage and test the limits. My patience was run very thin by 2:40 yesterday afternoon! Fortunately the new meds I am on seem to be helping...my fingers are crossed.

I am excited to be an aunt again, Amy is due in one month! She was having contractions yesterday, so I am sitting by the phone...nothing yet!

It is supposed to be near 70 tomorrow. Here's hoping for the sun and warmth!

Sickness stinks.

Our family is trying to get healthy. We spent the long weekend sick and couped up inside. It started with Sean on Thursday morning, then me that evening, and now Graham today. I am hoping tomorrow will be a miracle day and we'll all be able to breath through our noses again. Here's to your health!

The sun helped our moods today, and we even took a short walk outside. The fresh air really does a body good. We are hoping the weatherman is right and the 70s will be here this week!

Meltdown...

Well I can officially say that I have lived through a "Sean Meltdown" in the middle of Target. It happened last Monday afternoon. I met my mom to walk the mall after school, because it is still too cold to go outside to do it, and on our way home from the mall, we swung through Target for a few things. He made it to the back of the store before he decided that he wanted to get out and walk on his own. My hands were full and he isn't one to "hold my hand" or "stay close," it is more fun to run and play "hide and seek" or "chase." Needless to say, I left my cart and I carried my screaming baby out of the store and buckled him into his seat and headed home. Once we were outside, he was fine.

Tickle Monster

My little man is so darn cute. He had an enjoyable night of running around the house naked while waiting for his bath to fill. He giggled and ran from room to room, gotta love the freedom! Then, he has started putting his face in in the bath! He does really well with it and even gets on his tummy and kicks his feet. I, swim teacher at heart, am so darn proud of his exceptional swimming skills! Every night when I am feeding him in the rocking chair before bed, he looks at me, smiles, and puts his feet by my hand. He wants me to tickle him! We play the tickle game for awhile, and I always end it with a big kiss before laying him in bed. Who would've thought that would settle him done to sleep?! What a perfect way to end our day together. I love being a mom. It truly is a gift from above.

Is it sick to want one more snow storm?

I am craving the warm sunshine like everyone else, but with the threat of a big snow storm on the way, I can't help but get a little excited! We haven't gotten much of anything down here this year. We haven't had a snow day yet, so I have regressed to my childhood days and am doing my snow dance tonight, praying for the "big" one to make it worth it! We are all kids at heart, and those unexpected days off are the best days! Anyway, wishing all of you warmth soon.

Dog Dish

Sean didn't sleep well last night, so I didn't sleep well. We stayed home today to get well and to catch up on sleep. Well, as I am trying to multitask with my unexpected day off, Sean got busy in the kitchen. Our house is Sean proofed, most of the time. We usually put our dogs' water dish down when they are thirsty, but then it is back on the counter for reasons I am sure you understand. Well, I am in Sean's room going through his drawers, when I look around and he is nowhere to be found. As I am walking down the hallway, I am hearing some giggles and splashing sounds. Guess who forgot to put the water dish back? Guess who was soaking wet and having the time of his life? Cute, cute, cute, but water was everywhere! Ahh, to be one again.

We have a WALKER!

When we were checking into our hotel down in Cabo, Sean started to become a little more brave and would let go of things to walk on his own. He wouldn't go far, but he was trying to do it on his own. He still preferred to crawl.

That was then, this is now.

It all changed on Saturday. As Sean and I were playing in our living room, he began walking and walking and walking, he wouldn't stop! He would walk around the island, then down the hall, to the window, and so on. He gets up from a sitting position on his own, and is off! It is so darn cute! His arms are up like Frankenstein for balance, but man can the little tyke move! He had a ball showing off his new skill at Nana and Papa's house for Easter, and today was following me where ever I went. I love it! He is amazing! Here are some pics of his new skill! I think he is trying to run...wow!

Mexico

We did it! We took our first family trip! All three of us made it down there and back in one piece, and along the way, we had a blast!

Graham was a trooper, he was in charge of hauling the luggage. Let me tell you, this was no easy task! We had our max of 4 checked bags, plus a car seat, plus a stroller, plus a diaper bag, purse, and Graham's carry on. He did it beautifully, without complaining once. I would've been pushing it bringing the pack-n-play, so I am glad the hotel provided a crib!

Sean is a natural flyer! He loved the take offs and landings, played with everything he could get his little hands on, and was even able to take a nap! Gotta love that!

Mom was worried about everything from packing to flying to the crib to water, and everything went so smoothly! We will do this again!

Sean was able to swim everyday, play in the sand, take walks, wear shorts and a baseball hat, and give the eye to all the beautiful women. We are in trouble...Enjoy the pics.

Our One Year Old!

Well, Sean's first birthday has come and gone, and we really partied it up! He loved having his cousins and friend over to play. They ran (and he crawled) up and down the hallway all night! It really cracked us up! Sean giggled and chased and watched and chased and giggled some more. I love how he loves other kids. It makes me want to find more time in my day to get him together with other kids. He is absolutely spoiled by my mom all day and has the pleasure to hang out with his parents all night, but some times I think he needs more. Enjoy his birthday pictures. He really enjoyed himself.

We are heading to Cabo San Lucas on Sunday and can't wait! This winter has been so long! I am a little nervous to travel with Sean, but we went shopping this weekend and got him some new toys to open on the plane. I am hoping this will help! Our flight is early, so I am hoping he might sleep, but I am not going to count on it! He is going to love the beach and pool, I can barely get him out of the tub most days!

Otherwise, life is going on as usual. We are very lucky to have each other, our families, and friends. We only wish we could see everyone more.

We did begin using a babysitter...and it went great! She is 20 years old and I am friends with her mom. Sean loves her, and she actually wants to come back so that is a good sign! Our first date night was pretty comical. We told her we'd be home around 10, and that we'd be going to dinner and a movie. Well, we went to dinner and had a very nice time. We only looked at the end of the table (where Sean would've been sitting) a dozen or so times. When we finished dinner it was 8pm, so we were too late for a movie. We tried to think of something to do to keep us out until 10. Well, we went to the mall and looked at all the campers on display. I could've shopped, but Graham wasn't in the mood for that:) The mall closes at 9pm, so we then decided to go get gas and wash the car. Now it was 9:15. Well, we needed cash to pay the sitter, so we drove across town to our bank and got some cash. Now it was 9:20. We decided to stop at one of our favorite bars for a drink, this was a good idea, and it gave us a little time to laugh about our night. Needless to say, we were home right at 10pm. We couldn't wait to kiss our boy and rub his back. I hear it gets easier. We'll try again when we return from our trip!

TGIF!

What a week! I am not sure what it was about this week, but it has been one of the longest weeks that I can remember! Now if my weekend can last just as long, I'd be set!

No walking yet...We are really going to have lots of time to practice this weekend, since it will be too cold to do anything! I wonder if he'll walk by his birthday. I remember thinking he'd walk by Christmas because he was so determined to do it, but here we are. He is amazing and learning so much. He can play by himself, but loves to wrestle with his dad. He is also a HUGE fan of his Papa! Their relationship melts my heart. Since I bring him to my parents everyday for daycare, they have been able to spend a lot of time together. Nana tells me that they eat lunch together on the days my dad can make it home. The other day I was dropping him off and my dad was sitting at the computer. Sean crawls up behind him and just stares. I told him to say "hi", and the next thing I knew he was in Papa's lap with a huge smile. Buddies.

Graham is still anixously awaiting his scores and to hear back from the U. I am nervous everytime he opens his email or goes to get the mail. Please keep him in your prayers. Otherwise, he is doing great. He is looking awesome and feeling great about himself. I am so proud of him for sticking with it! We treated ourselves to McDonalds the other night, and it really didn't taste as good as we remembered it to be. What a huge accomplishment for us!

School is going well. It was a crazy day with parent readers and dog visits. I also do "hot chocolate Fridays" so I was just asking for it today! We all survived and left with smiles, and I am once again ready for bed at 9pm. What an old lady!

We were so glad to hear that our good friend passed his first 3 month check up after finding out and fighting stage 4 throat cancer. It is a miracle, and their family lives 3 months at a time now. They are looking at planning a vacation, I say go for it! We continue to pray for them.

I hope you all are doing well and staying warm. I could've screamed when the groundhog saw his shadow. I had taught my first graders a cute little song about him;

(sing to "I'm a little teapot")
I see a groundhog
furry and brown,
He's popping up to look around.
If he sees his shadow,
he'll go down.
Six more weeks of winter, OH NO!

What more can I say?

Getting Brave!

Our little man is getting to be very brave. In just the last couple days, he is starting to "let go" when he is standing by something. We make a big deal out of it, and he gets so excited! He smiles so big and raises his arms up like a cheer. We are so proud! I am hoping I am there for his first steps. I just know it is right around the corner, so we practice it every night. It is so cool to watch them learn and try new things. I can see his brain working, and it just makes my heart leap! I'll keep you posted!

No news on Graham's test or schooling yet. He has a plan B, just in case things don't fly this year. He has heard that it is a common thing to have to apply more than one year, so I am glad that he is at least thinking about next year. Otherwise, he is busy with school and work, and he always makes time for us. He has really gotten into exercising and eating healthy. He was frustrated with himself, but now feels great and is liking the results. It is fun to have another cook in the kitchen and help with grocery shopping. We are actually planning meals and saving money! What a treat!

School is going well. We had a late start yesterday due to the cold weather. The kids need to get outside and get the stink off them today. It is hard to have them couped up in here all day. Otherwise, I am trying to get on the exercise wagon, not quite there yet, but am thinking about it. That is farther than I have gotten lately! Eating right is easier since we are doing it together. It feels good to not remember the last time we ate McDonalds. For awhile there, we were their best customers. Sad, I know.

Have a great day and I'll keep you posted on the "walking!"

Done!

Well, Graham took his MCAT yesterday! His brain hurts, but he made it through. We are praying for good results and an interview to follow. He has done awesome, and he is already on the couch studying for some college tests. It never ends!

I am patiently waiting for my little man to settle himself to sleep, so then I can take a nap! He is busy talking to his animals and reading his books. It may be a lost cause. He was tired...

Have a great rest of your weekend. Our lives haven't changed too much lately! Just in first birthday planning mode. I have looked all over for a giraffe pan to make his first cake, and I finally found one today! I am going to try to be a "Betty Crocker," so we'll see!

Warm Thoughts...

It has been a crazy week at our house. Graham is busy with his last minute prep work for the big MCAT this Saturday. I have to say, that he has been easy to be around. I would've predicted it to be the opposite! Keep him in your prayers. He has worked so hard for this. He is striving to be above average and hopefully that will spark a Med School interview!

It has been a busy week at school for me. It is end of the quarter, so lots of testing to be done. Amazing how much we know about how our little first graders think and learn! It has really been cool to see what is working and where we need to pick up the pace. School is becoming so much more individualized which has been so beneficial for our students!

Sean is still crawling and walking behind his lion toy. It could be any day. My mom says that he'll just surprise us and walk around the corner some day...I just hope I am there when it happens! He is really into any drawers and cupboards that he can open. I have had to do some rearranging and Graham is in the process of making some areas "kid proof," totally bumming out his son. But life is one big learning lesson! Check out his new pictures at dinsmorephotography.com, click on "online proofs," then on my name, and enjoy! My favorite is the first one...

Hope you are all warm! We are praying for a heat wave, anything in the 20s would be great!

Haircut!

Our little man got his first haircut on Monday night. He was looking a little scruffy, so we brought him along to Graham's appointment. Lindsey took great care of him. He was so darn cute and curious. I saved his hair to put in his baby book. I can't believe he needed one already. Enjoy the pictures!

Where did the year go?

Our little boy is going to be turning one year next month. I ordered his birthday cards tonight. It is so exciting and a little sad all at the same time!

He is going through a new stage of experimenting and falling. We feel like horrible parents every time we look at his forehead. The poor kid has a huge bruise smack dab in the middle of it, and the worse part is, he continues to bump it! Ouch! I only wish I could take his pain. We were doing so well. He was steady on his feet and happy exploring and playing. Now, he has the desire to walk, but is getting clumsy again. I think he gets that from me. I have been known to take some good diggers a couple times a year.

Hope you had a great weekend. I just hate it when they come to an end. Someday I won't have to worry about it, someday.

New Years Resolution

My goal this year is to try hard to stay with things and not get so far behind! I uesd to give everything 110%, and once Sean arrived I wanted to continue on the same track, but am finding it impossible. I am not settling for sub standard, but I am becoming more realistic. I may not always be right on time, but I will be darn close!

Anyway, we are doing great! We survived our move into our new house. Graham did a fabulous job! We are slowly adding pictures to our walls and unpacking the rest of the boxes. I figure whatever I don't open before spring can go on the garage sale, because I must not need it if it has been packed away since July!

Sean is on the verge of walking! He is like Spiderman walking along the walls. He doesn't trust himself enough to let go...yet. We'll keep you posted! He is getting closer to his birthday, and what a day that will be. I am already in party planning mode. It has got to be a special one! He is keeping us busy with crawling around everywhere at the speed of light. He loves his puppies, and he tries to "pet" them every chance he gets. They love him, too, and are very tolerant of him. I am so proud of them! We are working on the bedtime thing. He has an ear infection, so I am being "easy" right now. As I type, 9:39pm, he is opening and closing the office door. I just hope he doesn't learn the finger lesson tonight! Oh, well.

I am doing well. It was hard going back to school after our two week break. Today was easier, and I know each day will get better. First grade is fun, the kids love me (can't believe they do after all our "talks" about right/wrong and good/bad), so I can't complain. I am trying to get back into exercising, but really need two more hours in my day.

Graham is anxiously awaiting his final semester at Mankato State. He is really enjoying school and is very dedicated. He is in the process of applying to Medical Schools and hoping/praying for a chance to interview. Please keep him in your prayers, because it will be a dream come true for him.

Otherwise, our families are doing well. Amy is pregnant and due in May. We can't wait to have that baby in the family! Christmas was amazing this year and we are looking forward to a great new year.