Christmas 2010- The Christmas Weekend

We had a good 3 day weekend. We started Christmas Eve with friends and waffles. They were delicious. Well, both the company and waffles. Jesse Jay ate a ton. He has been such an eater lately. I think he is getting ready for another growth spurt. Then we spent the majority of the day just relaxing, spending time and enjoying every minute of it. That evening we took Melinda to Messenger Pizza and finally tried the Chuck Norris pizza. Interesting, but not my favorite. I'd have named the Jalapeno Popper Pizza the Chuck Norris- that one is like a round house kick to the mouth of DELICIOUS. We then took the boys around neighborhoods to look at Christmas lights. Not many neighborhoods did lights this year. But Jesse Jay liked pointing to houses and saying "prrrrreeeey lights!"

Christmas Day we all woke up to open presents. We pointed out to Jesse Jay the cookies and milk he left for Santa were misteriously gone, but he didn't really get it this year. We video taped us opening presents, so pardon my lack of pictures. Toby let Jesse Jay or us help him open his presents. Forgive him, he is 8 months old. He got a new car seat, a drum with lots of instruments in it, a new bath tub toy collector (a big turtle), some tub toys, a tent, Little People toy set, an infant teether toy, a firetruck, a light up/glitter strobe ball, etc. Jesse Jay got Elmo (x a million). He got Elmo underwear that he loves to wear (can you feel the potty training bribery), Elmo PJs, an Elmo bath toy, an Elmo Wii Game from Grandma, Grandpa, candy, building blocks, a Veggie Tales Bible Book, some more glow in the dark stars and planets for his ceiling, a nightlight that projects a constellation on the wall, a Mr. Potato Head projector toy, books, clothes, etc. They made out like Bandits!

Santa brought both boys an Elf on the Shelf. If you havent heard of this, it's awesome and I highly recommend it to your family. It comes with an Elf and a book. Check it out at: Elf On The Shelf.

Then we had a lovely brunch. I made a potato, kielbasa, egg, cheese, onion and green pepper mixture while Jesse made fresh homemade Apple Cider Donuts. It was delicious. We played games and with our respective toys for hours. I got 5 Wii Games: Super Mario Wii, Mario All-stars (all the old NES games in one), Zelda: Twilight Princess, Just Dance 2, and Raymonds Ravving Rabids. All are super fun. I am obsessed with Zelda right now. Jesse Jay likes to (pretend) play with me and gets his own Wii-mote and makes all the motions. He is so cute. I also got a laptop lap desk (my old one broke and this one comes with a fan you plug in via USB!) and some new headphones for my workouts.

For Christmas Dinner, we got to spend that with good friends. The Allen's had us over with a lot of our other friends for yummy prime rib. We felt spoiled by everyone. They also gave us gifts. We got a Mom calendar, candied walnuts that we all love (Jesse Jay too), picture frames, etc. The boys got some clothes, toys, an ornament, and a Giant Stuffed Microbe- MRSA (complete with cape). We sang songs. I had the boys dressed super cute. See.

I love little boy ties and they are so hard to find. I love my little men in ties. I found these on sale at Target. I figure they'll soon outgrow matching and wont let me do that to them. Might as well get away with it while I can.

The next day we went to church as a family, then I took the girls out for a movie and some lunch at Northern Light Cinema and Grill. I had coupons which made me go- but I have been there a couple times now and I love that place! Jesse Jay got to see Megamind there the 22nd for his first movie and did so good. I'm sure the popcorn helped, but I was so proud of him.

I have immensley enjoyed having my husband home the past 2 weeks. I am going to miss him when he is busy subbing again, and updating and keeping his applications on-file and up to date at local districts for when they are looking for teachers next school year. But he is helping me so much. Mostly to get over this dreadful cold I have suddenly developed.

I need to go to bed. Goodnight.

The Things That Keep Me Going......

The boys are such fun! I have missed them. I got most of the day with them today as I only worked 4-8. Tomorrow I work day 7 of 7, and finally, a coveted day off. We moved Jesse's first movie experience to this Wednesday and we are getting excited. We still haven't decided to see Megamind or Tangled. But I am so looking forward to it.

I got to sleep in a little bit recently, since Jesse has been out with schools being on break. I love having him home and he has definitely needed the R&R. He works almost as hard as a full-time teacher. He has been blessed with tons of subbing opportunities. His name is getting out there and he is getting "rave reviews" from all the schools he subs at. It's been great at boosting his confidence. Today we were at the eye doctor and a mother of a former student he had went on and on- made him feel like a celebrity- "It's Mr. Maddux!!!"

Jesse Jay just loves Toby. Toby laugh's at almost everything Jesse Jay does and he loves to make him laugh. Toby's tooth has finally come through completely- and think its actually his front left lower tooth. The second must be right behind it because he has still been a pill. At least he went to sleep without a fuss tonight. He is pulling himself up now to a full standing position- and gets the biggest smile of triumph you have ever seen, when he accomplishes this feat.

Oh, and he is 8 months old now! Can you believe it??

Jesse Jay has been trying to play mom and dad at bed time and keeps asking for things hoping to get out of bed. I came in after work tonight and he wanted his "bankie." It's my old baby blankie that he loves to snuggle with in the living room. And he has been such a snuggler. He always wants to be with us now. At least after he got to say "nigh-nigh" to mommy and got his blankie he went to bed, this time.

And to his father's pride (an avid Jim Henson fan) his newest word is "Miss Piggy." We have an ornament of her on the tree he likes to point to and his father has been watching a lot of the Muppet Show episodes we own. He also says Fozzy bear. Kermit is a bit hard for him and its comes out "Mit."

I love Christmas. Two more days of work this week left. I am so excited for quality family time and to see everyone's faces as they open presents. Thats my favorite.

So Sweet I Had To Share

Jesse Jay has really taken an interest in helping us out with Toby more. He likes to hold his bottle and feed him his "o's." He did it again for breakfast this morning, so I took a video of it since he wasn't being shy about it this time. Doesn't it just tug on your heart?

And we didnt sleep well last night. Toby's teething has meant frequent night time awakenings. I was exhausted at normal wake-up of 730 this morning. Jesse Jay walked in to our room. Jesse had already left for work. I had him crawl into bed with me. He wouldn't sleep. I instead compromised with putting on PBS and he watched quietly until well after 9 am. He occasionally would snuggle in close and whisper, "mommy nigh-nigh." What a sweet boy I have!

Toby Gets His First Tooth

And now he is chewing on the furniture. No wooden surface or mama's knuckle is safe anymore. He got his bottom left lateral incisor in today. I felt it as he was gnawing at my fingers this evening. Shark bait.... ooooo haha!

Christmas Decorations

Today was wonderful too. I think I am trying to squeeze every ounce of wonderful out of this long break before I return to work. The plus side is, it's working!

After repeating my delicious chicken tortilla soup for dinner, we rearranged some furniture and got the Ol' (aluminum) Christmas tree out. One of these years we are going to get a real one because how can the grand daughter of a Christmas tree farmer not have a real one- at least once. Darn allergies keep me saying, "maybe next year."

So this year Jesse Jay was actually old enough to help, a little. He helped daddy "fluff" the tree, then helped string lights and hung ornaments.

Ornaments and lights need to be hung just so. The hat is a Tigger Christmas hat I bought while working the Christmas holiday in 2002. We bring it out every year for the decorating.

This is our tree fully decorated! It may not seem like much, but it works and the best thing is the ornaments are out of the crawling infants reach! We are starting a tradition of getting the boys an ornament every year until they're 18. When they get married- they'll inherit the ornaments for their first Christmas.

And no Christmas would be complete without the stockings hung by the chimney with care! I love the boys' new stockings- Leah and I found them at Winco in Spokane. She got cowboy boots and the boys got these awesome high top sneakers!!

And the evening was completed when Jesse made hot "chalkey" for us to celebrate. Someone is in chocolate heaven....

A Really Great Day

My husband, is wonderful. He had opportunities to sub today, but I have been feeling pretty down and overwhelmed with everything we need to get done. So he took the day off.

It started off this morning with sleeping in until 930! Wow, I felt glorious and human again. Then Jesse made us breakfast- potatoes, bacon and eggs. And it was delicious. Then we got the kids bathed, and now Jesse Jay smells great. It's lovely when he loses that ferret smell.

The boys went down for their naps and I cut Jesse's (Sr) hair. I got to take a hot shower which felt great on my back- which has been sore for months now and had recently flared up again. It's nice to have time to shave your legs too. Hahaha, thats one of the "you know you're a mom when" things.... time to shave your legs without being rushed, is coveted.

Jesse woke up from his nap, but Toby napped for 3-4 hours or so. So Jesse Jay and I went to run the errands I have been needing to finish for months. We had a blast!

We started out getting a gift card for a friend. Then we went and stopped by work so I could say hello to one of my co-workers. Then we dropped off some presents. Then we got another gift card. And then we got ice cream. Jesse Jay was in love. We got a cinnamon bun blend that was to die for. Then, I wanted coffee (I am trying to kick back) but I had a terrible "you're addicted- face it" headache. Jesse Jay kept asking me for "foffee." I needed to make a Target run so we got him his own (hot chocolate) that he devoured. Best dollar and 17 cents ever spent. He was in heaven. Then we went to Other Mothers for another bed railing to move Jesse Jay's bed and Winco to buy chicken to cook for dinner.

We came home and Jesse (Sr) helped me unload as the boys played. Melinda came home and played as well. Toby, meanwhile, was playing with Jesse Jays pop up toy. You push/pull/rotate buttons so characters pop out. I did that for him. I turned around a second and all of a sudden they were all down again. I couldn't believe Toby had done that. My 7 month old is a genius, I tell you. So I did it again... and again. Yep, definitely him. He also fed himself O's today. And they actually made it into his mouth! His fine motor skills and comprehension are just sky rocketing right now!

This evening we got to watch the new Shrek movie, Jesse Jay had picked out at Target. He had some left over grandma money so we ok'ed one early present. He loves it too. We also got to go to the work Family Christmas party. The boys got to meet Santa. Jesse took a photo and quickly bailed. Toby tried to pull Santa's beard off. He wasn't fooled. I took Jesse aside and said, "Didnt you want to tell Santa Clause what you want for Christmas so he can bring it to you?" He ran over to him and said, "Elmo!!" and ran away again. He got some cookies and a ornament project to do at home.

Then we came home. Jesse (Sr) made fresh homemade linguini pasta with our garden supplied pesto sauce and it was delicious. He made a rosemary encrusted chicken breast as well. My friend from work, her family came over and had dinner with us as her little boy and Jesse played. He loves "big kids." They both ran around giggling and playing hard. Jesse Jay was so happy and running around that he was red in the face- smiling the whole time.

We didn't have time to set up for Christmas. But that's ok. We are doing it Saturday. I have a doctors appointment tomorrow and a house to clean in Christmas decoration preparation.

Saturday we will Christmas-afy the house and then Jesse and I get a date night/work party. Sunday Melinda and I are planning to take Jesse Jay to his first movie theater experience. The big question is Tangled or Megamind. Hmmm.... still haven't decided.

Then Monday and/or Tuesday we are going to do our baking and take it easy. I work all but one day before Christmas Eve before I get multiple days off again, so I gotta enjoy this pre-Christmas time to the fullest.

Oh, and I am officially done with Christmas shopping. Yes!! Now just to finish "prettying up" a few gifts. And on to the horrible daunting task of wrapping. I used to ask my sisters to wrap presents for me. Wish they still could!

Snow Day 2010

Today is a snow day. All the districts Jesse subs for are closed. So far we've had 7+ inches. I was working last night and drove home in it. It was that moment that I was extremely grateful for a job a mile away from the house. I wasnt worried about the drive because its easy to be very careful and vigiliant and not feeling rushed for a 5 minute commute. I'm supposed to be at work right now, but my boss told me to stay home and be "on-call" to come in. It's been a very slow day as everyone seems to be staying home.

I woke up this morning to my husband and two little boys saying "get mommy." I quickly grabbed Toby and snuggled him in. Toby and I pretended to be asleep while Jesse Jay decided it was his mission to wake us up by pouncing on us. Giggling all the while.

Jesse made gingerbread shaped pancakes, eggs, and turkey sausage for breakfast. While we waited I gave Jesse Jay a snow pre-view. He loved pushing snow off the grill in the back. He didnt like it when snow stuck to his clothes and had to wipe it off. He threw the biggest fit I have ever seen from him about coming back in.

Then after breakfast, warming up and some Elmo we were ready for snow- round two. Jesse Jay loves playing in it and says its "hot." We're working on that. Him and daddy started building a fort together and he loved that too.

Toby did not like the snow and preferred to be brought inside and near the fireplace. We snapped a few pictures to commemerate his first "real" snow and quickly brought him in since he has an ear infection.

After 10 minutes inside I heard little boy whimpering at the front door and a smooshed Jesse Jay face on the window by the door. I was worried he would just playy and play until he got frost bite, but he certainly knew when he was done. We got him out of wet clothes, into dry ones and near the fire (with some Sid the Science Kid) and he was golden.

Now we are eating some turkey soup that is oh too delicious to be leftovers and some warm rolls. Snuggling together and getting ready to watch Glee. It's been a good day.

More Wacky Antics From the 2 Year Old

Jesse Jay is chattering and giggling and as hyper as ever. Too much time indoors I think. I need to find a non-fast food associated indoor play place to let him roam and play.

He was supposed to be down for a nap today. I heard some banging come from his room and "Mommy!!" I go in to find, he ripped off his diaper and handed it to me. He pointed at it and said, "Icky!" Because he had peed in it. Nice.

He continues to be a little clown for his baby brother. Always smiling and laughing, or playing "Peek-Boo" just for jeers. I had Toby in the play pen today and Jesse Jay decided to bring his toys and chat with him while I did the dishes.

He loves to jump, dance like a maniac, and try to sing- but he only gets excessively repetitive 1-3 words lyrics. Like on the Cat & the Hat- "Go, go, go, go on 'venture!"

He still doesn't understand why mommy wants him to go pee pee on the potty for candy. And still is being rather obstinant about it. He just bats his long eye lashes and tries to "cutsy face" his way out of it. Goodness.

Well, gotta run. Have a house to clean and two babes who need caring for. Well, one at the moment as Jesse Jay is down for a nap. Finally. :)

Jesse Jay Antics & Day Care

So Jesse Jay has the really cool music guitar that Rachel & Tim bought him for his birthday. He is pushing the buttons and dancing and bouncing on the side of the couch like a crazed lunatic and yelling "yes!" and "AWESOME!" Its making Toby giggle hysterically and squeal. I am dying with laughter. Where does he get this stuff?

When he watches movies these days, he screams "naughty" at the bad guy throughout the movie. Hey, at least he can identify bad behavior, right?

And now, as per his DAILY ritual, he is unzipping his jammies and is proclaiming nakie time. Ok, he still has a diaper. So not complete nakie time. Either way, this 2 year old has me in STITCHES.

And can you believe Toby is 7 months old today. He loves laughing at his brother. His brother likes making him laugh. It's a wonderful symbiotic relationship they have.

The boys got to try an actual day care yesterday. We were fortunate to find a day care close to where Jesse was working that takes drop-ins and a lady we know (who is awesome) runs it. They did well, but I acted like a FREAK of a mom. I called (only once- don't judge me) to check in on them and acted like a nervous freak at work. They did great though and I think we have found a solid plan B when we need it. Jesse Jay is usually my shy one- but he ended up acclimating quickly and playing with the other 2 year olds. Toby was the baby, by far. And they were all fascinated with him and crowded him a bit. He lost it. One of the nice day care teachers grabbed him and took him off to a quiet corner in a rocking chair. Daddy picked them up and got a good report. That'd made me feel much more at ease.

We have had a good- albeit VERY busy week thus far. Today is my Friday then I work all weekend. Thanksgiving week I only work two days. I will be getting some much needed time off.
The boys jumper music piano has been dead since we got it. I emailed trying to find a replacement part- and despite being well out of warranty, they replaced it for FREE. Kids II makes a lot of little Einstein products. I will be buying their products more often in the future as they had excellent customer service!

So looking forward to Thanksgiving and some needed time off. And I think I am starting to feel a little better, finally! :)

The Crud

The boys' and I have all had colds for quite some time. Mama (me) started it a week earlier. Mine has lingered on and on- into a sinus infection, again. My head hurts, my ears hurt, my face hurts.... you name it, it hurts. It makes me a little cloudy and difficult to think quickly. Ugh. I sucked it up and saw my doctor about this and other issues I have been having. I'm on an antibiotic but it certainly is taking its sweet time to work.

So I have quarantined myself inside our home to recover with the boys who also have had runny noses and coughs the past week. No fevers, sleepless nights, or problems breathing so we are waiting it out before I take them in. Don't worry- I know what I am doing. Er, I think? Being in the medical field AND a mom doesn't make my judgement perfect, by any means. Outside of being quarantined, I go to work and that's it. Don't worry- sinus infections aren't contagious.

I am getting cabin fever. I have badly wanted to go out and shop. I don't generally like to shop, but I love this time of year. I love Christmas! I have found great gifts for nearly everyone. I have succumbed to online shopping for much of it this year, which has helped sizzle some of this NEED to get out. Free shipping, online discounts (hard to forget your coupon when your AT home) and being able to find EXACTLY what I want and compare prices within seconds... has been lovely. We also hadn't bought us (the parents) clothes in a long time- so Jesse and I used our Kohl's Coupon and got some new work clothes at killer prices.

I had to miss a couple workouts last week with my workout partner because I have just been SICK and not getting better. I hate to cancel. I hate not working out. But it seemed to start making me feel worse, and not better. I have had a lot of rest now and I am hoping I can handle getting up tomorrow and resuming my workouts again. I need to do something that doesn't involve my house or work.

On the bright side, I have been far more domestic lately, working on new recipes, even baking. Oh goodness... who IS this woman.

I hope you like the new pictures for the blog. We had Heidi do them for us, as per our usual. And I think they are lovely.

Jesse Jay hasn't repeated his potty trick. In fact, he seems to not want to use the potty because we want him to. So we are asking on occasion but not pushing him to go. He gets pretty resentful and dramatic about the whole process if we do. He is talking a lot more. A real parrot and repeats most things I say. He is going around counting to 5 every chance he gets. Oh and today he decided he was "scared" of the sound of the garbage truck. I took him outside and showed him what the noise was- a big truck. He watched it until we couldn't see it anymore. He didn't say he was scared anymore, so I think it may have worked. He likes watching his PBS programs and responds now to the ones that ask him questions, though it's all confidently stated jibberish.

Toby is sitting up more and more, with little assistance these days. He is getting on all fours and inch worm crawling. He still is a very happy guy and giggles at almost anything. We are battling a horrible diaper rash. I think since he went to solids its making the whole thing worse- especially fruits, I have noticed. We are doing just formula and rice cereal until it clears. He is blowing raspberries and mimicking us any chance he gets.

Both boys have mild colds. Though neither one seems very down and out about it. Me on the other hand, I feel like I have the plague. Mornings are far worse than evenings. My body just aches and I just cant get enough sleep right now.

I have been busy with work, though still loving it. The fall-winter months are always busier in family practice/urgent care settings because of cold and flu season. I also think its because kids are back in school, a huge breeding ground for germs. Other than being sick, we (Jesse and I) had our 5 year college reunion at NNU this weekend and got to spend time with friends, and really had fun. I am still working out 4-5 times a week, though my body is just hanging on to every pound it can. It's hard to diet when you feel ill too- your body just craves fluids and calories for energy. But I am not giving up and I am still sticking with it. Only 35 more pounds to go to my goal weight. I have lost 9 total in the past month. Not too bad. But my clothes look worse because I am losing it in weird areas. Oh, and in an idiotic moment- I burned my lip on scalding hot pizza the other day. My bottom lip was VERY painful. Still is cracked and swollen and tender to the touch. Hopefully that heals quickly.

Jesse (Sr) has been getting a lot of subbing jobs. People are requesting him specifically and it is wonderful. He took a few days off last week and it was extremely difficult for him to do because he kept being offered jobs left and right. He felt bad declining, but really wanted to spend time with our friends as it really was a once in every 5-10 year kind of opportunity. We are feeling very encouraged for next year. Lots of people (in high places) think he will have no problems finding a position next year.

Please just pray we get over these colds soon. Mine has been going on for 10 days. Pretty soon I will likely suck it up and get an antibiotic, but I prefer to do what I advise my patients- give your body a chance to fight this.

Potty News......

Jesse Jay went pee-pee on the potty today. I am so proud. No pictures though. We will save those for blackmail and girlfriends in the future. We got very excited. High-fives. Praises. and 4 M&M's.. the little guy was in heaven. He even got to stay up later than his nap time and watch one of his PBS shows. Go Jesse Jay! Go! Hopefully this is a new trend.

Halloween 2010- Thing 1 & Thing 2

We had a wonderful Halloween. We got to carve pumpkins Aunt Sarah's house and then went to some houses to go trick-o-treating. Jesse Jay still can't say it. He just stares at you blankly until you give him candy. Right now he is going through his loot. Every once in awhile the doorbell rings with the neighborhood rug ruts asking for candy- and he loves giving out candy. Unless you have a scary mask and then he backs up against a wall and refuses to give you candy. He likes giving out candy so much he even started going into his bucket to give kids candy. I love my little man's heart.

For Halloween dinner I have been really wanting to make Chicken Tortilla Soup. It turned out delicious. I used a bunch of people's recipes. Took what I wanted and common themes in all recipes that were blaring necessity's. Melinda wanted seconds, she liked it so much. And it looks almost as good as it actually tasted.

And this is a picture of my guys. Thing 1, Thing 2 and Cat in the Hat. Aren't they just super adorable. A big thank you to my sister-in-law Sarah, who helped make the hats (hair), gloves and shoes. They looked amazing!

Now if you can tell from Jesse Jay's mischevious grin, you're supposed to act the part of Thing 1. The moment his costume was on, he took to doing the very opposite of whatever mommy or daddy said. Such a toddler....

This is the boys at Sarah's house. She made a big pumpkin with leg holes to put all the kiddos in. We got a ton of photos. Check out the facebook album if you want to see more.

We hope you and yours had a Happy Halloween. We are getting these kiddo's relaxed and ready for bed soon. Then the adults are going to watch Rocky Horror- which we do every Halloween! :)

Toby & His Giggles

Jesse Jay Trying to Pray

Forgive the fact he is eating and it's prompted. Honestly, he is two. But what a great start. It just melts my heart!!

5 AM Workouts and Baby Land News

It's official. My postpartum thyroid issues have resolved and I am back to "normal." Well, as normal as a working mom of two kids in diapers can be. I suspected things were getting better as my hair hasn't been falling out in clumps, my moods have been better and easier to control, and I have some semblance of "energy," though, at times it is fleeting.

My weight has still been an issue. I lost 8 lbs immediately after re-commiting to my weight-loss regimen 2 weeks ago. And now my body is holding on to every pound so tightly, it's hard to get the scale to tip in my favor. So now that the "diet" is pretty solidified- I decided I needed to exercise. But time is hard to come by and I need consistency. The only consistent time is 5 am. I hate mornings. I would like to highly stress that I am not a morning person. For years, the thought of doing what most successful people at weight loss tell me to do- early am work outs, was just something I could not commit to.

Then I was watching the Today Show last week. One of the Biggest Loser contestants is someone I felt like I could identify with. She explained how much she hates getting up and isn't a morning person. But if she can do it, so could I. It's hard at first, but it gets easier. Boy was she right!

After just 2 mornings, I already feel a difference in my body adjusting to a new consistent wake up time. I just need my body to adjust to a new bedtime.

I picked my workout partner when I was discussing the need to find an accountability buddy (at work) who would "kick my butt" if I didn't show. I'm too social and I need to go to the gym with somebody. She told me she was thinking of starting at the gym too. Our personalities are so similar. We don't let people get away with much, but are very much go getter's. She pushes me to wake up every morning, and I push here in the same way. And it is really working!

So far the scale is still hanging on to every pound. But I know eventually I will break this platue, and it will fall off in a big way. It's just reminding myself constantly, when I feel discouraged- is the key.

In baby land news.....

Toby is sleeping through the night, most nights. We moved his crib to the playroom to give him a trial at his own space, and it's working. Most times he whines for a minute or two and falls back asleep. Jesse Jay has been doing mid night wakings the past couple nights, though last night was a good night.

Toby is trying to crawl. Currently he is doing floor time and has his little bum high in the air. Then he falls over, rolls over on his brother- which irritates Jesse Jay. Then Toby smiles and giggles at his brother and all is forgiven. Repeat over and over again, and you get a few for my morning. Add in coffee with pumpkin spice creamer and you're right here with me.

Today is a coveted day off. We have to drop of Kookies (yes, I spelled that right) to work for the prison ministry, drop some stuff off to my sister-in-law, grab coffee for Melinda, clean house, make dinner, and get these boys dressed- but not in that order.

Hopefully the weather improves this evening for family photos with Heidi.... praying about that because the weather man is trying to depress me.

Jesse-ism

This morning, we made Jesse Jay a sausage Mcmuffin. I know- best parents, ever. Sausage because he loves it and the Mcmuffin part because it's full of nummies he won't usually eat. He picked at it, and kind of refused to eat most of it. He wanted down. Or juice. Or.. anything that would get our attention off him not wanting to eat.

After a battle of wills between him and his dad, Jesse (Sr.) finally said, "Ok, Jesse Jay. I'm just going to wrap this up and you will eat this later. Say hello to lunch."

With a straight face and not missing a beat, Jesse Jay replies, "Hello Lunch."

How do you not giggle at that?

The Boys' Well Child Checks- 2 years & 6 months

Today started out as a hectic morning. Jesse Jay refused to eat breakfast. Toby was behaving, but decided to poop as we left. By the time we got to the doctor it was starting to come out the sides of his pants (Gross!!). All the while, I am trying to give a credit card, insurance card, and answer questions to the patient front desk lady. I finally had to excuse myself while she was registering Jesse Jay (he was a new patient for Dr. Freeman today) and took the kids to the bathroom. Of course, Jesse Jay kept slamming the bathroom doors as I was trying to change Toby. I just prayed silently, "keep me patient, dear Lord!" Luckily there were some nice older ladies around, who we patient and smiled at me as I struggled to wrangle my monsters.

Finally we were all clean and I was able to grab my receipt from the lovely front desk lady who offered this frazzled mom a smile and reassurance when I must have looked overwhelmed. It didn't help that despite my best efforts, we were still 5 minutes late. Grrr, I really hate being late.....

Then to top it off, I forgot Jesse Jay and Toby's shot records. Thank God for IRIS (this is the statewide shot record that any physician can access to verify immunization status). Because Jesse Jay's former pediatrician is the infectious disease specialist for Idaho- He was good to go, the doctor recommended we give him one extra shot because it carried more coverage for strep pneumonia strains. And of course, I wanted flu shots/mist for the boys.

Well the doctor checked them out one at a time. When it came to Jesse Jay he didn't want to do anything without his mama holding him. Wouldn't you know I didn't bring a stroller or a car seat to put Toby into so I wouldn't have to hold him 24/7? Luckily the clinic was slow and the nurses were more than willing to hold Toby for me. They are so nice.

So Toby is in the 33th percentile for weight still. He only grew a half inch so he is now in the 55th percentile for height. Other than a lingering mild diaper rash that will not got away with my best efforts, he is doing awesome. The doctor prescribed him some prescription strength "butt balm" and upped his reflux medication since that hasn't gone away. He commended our tries to keep him on his back while sleeping, but at this point we can not worry about it since the SIDS risk has dramatically decreased. I told him we kinda had given up on that since he wasn't sleeping well and we have a movement monitor that would let us know if he had stopped breathing.

Jesse Jay is a giant. Those of you who know him- probably aren't surprised. He towers over most kids his age and is often mistaken for a 3 year old. In fact, he is taller than a neighborhood boy who just turned 3 years old. We have been asked for months when he is starting preschool. The doctor laughed when I told him this. He is in the 99th percentile in everything. Height, weight, head- you name it. I thought to myself, hmm... future linebacker maybe? The doctor told me not to worry about the weight as he looks thin/lean and certainly with his height considered, he is not overweight. But maybe consider switching his milk from whole to 1-2%, so we are going to do that.

He got showered with toys and lollipops after his 1 shot and Flu mist. He went on and on about his owie and kept having mommy kiss it. Amazing how the pain went away as soon as he got a lollipop, isn't it? :) When we got home and I changed his diaper, he saw the band aid and went on and on about how awful his "owie" was. Too cute. And the Emmy goes to....

Toby got 4 shots today. He usually gets very tired, fussy and mounts a fever in the 102 F range. He isn't doing any of that today. He is eating well, happy and no fever- thus far.

As I told my husband, Jesse Jay is a giant and Toby is a shrimp. I'm not worried about either one. Toby will likely grow here soon. His brother was on the shrimpy end of the spectrum until he was nearly one- then he just took off. And even if he does remain smaller than Jesse Jay- I think that's great too.

The boys are meeting all of their milestones. We have been oober blessed with some pretty healthy boys.

Tobin David Maddux's Church Dedication- October 17th, 2010

Our baby boy, Tobin (Toby) David Maddux was dedicated at our church today. It was a special occasion for so many reasons. Not only did so many of our Idaho friends and family come, but today Toby turned 6 months old. Can you believe it and didn't I just have him? Additionally Toby's birthday buddy, Natalie was dedicated today too. We didn't plan it, but it just happened.

Today we vowed to be examples of Christ to Toby (and of course Jesse Jay) in our lives and our daily walk. Wow, what a powerful and HUGE responsibility that is.

We love you so much Toby! What a fun little boy you are turning out to be. Your mommy and daddy are smitten with you and your brother. (And PS: That's a dedication gift from our friend Jenn in Toby's hand- it is a GIANT microbe E. coli).

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And PPS: not to jinx it, but we took a friends advice- we moved Toby's crib into the playroom and we are all sleeping ALL night. Let's hope this becomes a repeating trend.

Linder Farms & The Maze 2010

Jesse and I have lived in Idaho for a total of 8 years (interrupted by PA school and our Nashville experience, in the middle) and have never, ever been to a corn maze. Pathetic, we know. But we finally went today with the family (and that always includes Melinda). It was a blast!

We started out at the petting zoo. I have been wanting Jesse Jay to experience one now that he is two. We paid our 1 token for the admission and food. Jesse Jay had to watch me feed the animals a few times for him to decide he was interested. He is definitely his father's boy in that regard. Contemplative. Has to see you do it a few times before he decides it's safe. But once he figured it out, he loved feeding the animals. He would giggle as the animals mouths and tongues tickled his fingers. He just needed a few reminders to straighten out his fingers.

We tried to see if he would handle a pony ride. Since I couldn't show him how to do that (weight limit is 75 lbs) he wanted nothing more to do with the ponies than petting them. He wouldn't even sit on one. The people running it were real nice and let us take our time trying to see if he'd go for it or not. He was definitely NOT having any of that.

Then we went through the Bronco's corn Maze. The first part we seemed to just fly through. Probably because we appointed Jesse Jay as our guide. He appears to have his mama's good sense of direction. When we got to the median bridge to proceed with the second part, we couldn't make a correct decision to save our lives. Jesse Jay didn't want to walk anymore and was over it. We ended up back tracking to the beginning again, since that part we were actually good at. And it was starting to get dark and I didn't think the babies would appreciate the haunted version of the maze that goes on past dark.

When we finally had made it back to civilization, we wanted to sit for a little bit and thought a hay ride was in order. So we sat the boys down and rode around the farm. After the hay ride we wanted some hot cider since it was getting cold. They also made yummy Mini Donuts Jesse just couldn't resist. And yes, they were DELICIOUS.

We ended the evening in front of the fire. Melinda showed Jesse Jay how to keep his hands warm. She also taught him a new word "Okie dokie" which makes me giggle each time he says it. Jesse was rolling Toby around in his arms and called over to me "Hey look Mommy, it's a Toby on a spit." It was so funny and Toby seemed to really enjoy it.

Jesse Jay fell asleep on the way home. Toby was too busy letting Melinda feed him and than chatting it up with her afterwards. His hair after we took his hat off made everyone giggle.


Now this Mama has to get to bed before she has to work tomorrow. One 12 hour shift, then Tobin's dedication on Sunday. I have had a lot of needed time off and we have been making the most of it!

A Trying Day

So this past week has been fun, but rather trying with the boys. A friend of mine recommended an exercise in ending the day on a positive note by writing down five things I appreciate about each of the boys:

Jesse Jay:
1. He has such a helping spirit. He always wants to do something to help us out.
2. He completely adores his little brother and loves to give him hugs and kisses. He also likes to make him laugh. "Peek boo" is his favorite game to play with him.
3. He likes to "pat pat" mommy when she is sad and say "there there."
4. He is his fathers mini-me/clone. I like my husband a lot, so this is a very happy trait to me.
5. Today, he liked spinning in circles with his head crooked over to the left side. He fell over a couple times. Laughed heavily and repeated over and over. It made me laugh a lot which only encouraged him to do it more.

Toby:
1. Has a HUGE and infectious smile/laugh.
2. Can certainly scream his lungs out- but stops to smile the minute Jesse or I enters the room.
3. If he is crying, and I am on the phone with his dad (at work) he calms down for a brief moment as if to say, "hey, that's MOM!!!"
4. He loves his brother. He watches him dance and laughs at all his wacky antics.
5. This morning, when I woke up, he gave me one of the biggest smiles I have ever seen when he saw me.

Focus......... focus, focus on the positive.

Flights and Family Time

So the past couple weeks have just flown on by- literally and figuratively....

At the end of September my mother and I flew out of BOI airport to our individual destinations. She to Seattle to return home from her visit for Jesse Jay's second birthday party and I to Spokane for the WAPA (Washington Academy of Physician Assistants) Conference. My friend Leah lives up there and I got to stay and attend the conference with her. It was so much fun and I learned a lot.

The conference was held in the Davenport Hotel in Spokane, which is a beautiful place! The food is decadent and the hotel is just breath taking. They fed us lunch daily and we had amazing 3 course meals. Unfortunately I gained 3 lbs from this yummy trip. The best part, by far, was catching up with my friend and seeing what has happened the past couple years.

I flew home to a warm welcoming from my guys. They stayed busy while I was gone. Jesse has been getting a good number of subbing jobs between everywhere he subs for. It appears he is building a pretty good reputation and people are starting to specifically request him- we hope it keeps up. He likes subbing, but is just aching to get a job next school year.

I had a couple days off after I returned and then worked 3- 12 hour shifts in a row at our satellite location. I enjoyed them. We were slow, and I am hoping that location picks up soon. I like being busy. It keeps my mind off missing my guys.

Now I am on day #4 of 5 days off. We have accomplished a lot, but not nearly the amount I thought we would. Kids really slow down the clean-up and errand momentum. They're worth it though. Just forgive me, I will never have a totally clean house until they are much older (how much older is not yet determined). But I'd rather be spending the time now than having a museum- I have to say this because sometimes I get really discouraged with the piles and to do lists. Now I make an effort to keep what's on my to do list on there, and cross out completed items. That way, when I feel like nothing got finished, I can see that's not the case and feel better about it.

I also think about how, granted we LOVE our house- but one day we would like to move out and build our "dream" house. It's no where close to being in the immediate or foreseeable future- but its something to think of when I feel the need to dream and plan for something.

I am going round #3 to restart my diet. Life has calmed down and physically/emotionally I am starting to feel better since postpartum Toby. I have my TSH repeat test coming up soon. I think it will be normal, but we will see. I also figured given these 5 days off I have the time to invest in the mental game and the tiredness that first sets in. Day #3- so far so good. I am doing light workouts and making it a priority. So far, down 4 lbs. Here is hoping that's actually REAL.

Lastly, I wanted to share with you all how I did Jesse Jay's Thank You Cards for his birthday gifts- I sat him down in his chair, grabbed a small box, opened one side. Tapped down the corners of the cards and gave him markers. This was a heavily supervised activity, mind you. He colored all over them. He told me when he was "all done." Then I took the cards and wrote in a sharpie over them "This is Jesse Jays way of saying Thank You for the gift. He loved it. Love, Jesse Jay." It was adorable and everyone loved them!

Now to enjoy an unexpected, but blessed day off with my guys. Oh the possibilities are endless....

Toby's First Attempt At Food

The night of Jesse Jay's party we decided to try Toby on rice cereal. You can see below some of the photo "ops" from the event. Oh my look at this intent face on the spoon. I personally love the rice cereal mustache in this one.

He is convinced that leaning backwards is somehow helping him figure out the tongue part. Mom is convinced that monkey-see, monkey-do.. if I open my mouth real wide, maybe he will too? Didn't work. He ended up spitting most of it up, but kept coming back for more.

After each bite he made this pained look of disgust. Real food is apparently some weird stuff!

We were hoping maybe once he started getting some rice cereal and more food on his tummy he might start sleeping better. Nope. We are starting this Sleep Sense program. Sometimes it works, sometimes not. He seems to be growing through a growth spurt right now and is extra drooly. But now is starting to take a pacifier on occasion (here is hoping we break him of the thumb).

Happy 2nd Birthday, Jesse Jay!

Our oldest, our Jesse Jay, is 2 years old today. Hard to imagine that 2 years ago today we were in the hospital holding him after a tense 24+ hours of watching his little heart rate drop and climb, for no obvious reason- wondering if I'd have him naturally or if I'd have to have a C-section at a moments notice; just to hold a healthy (slightly cone headed) wonderful baby boy who has charmed us since before he was even born and continues to do so. We love him so much!

Now he is an active 2 year old. He gets really quiet and very contemplative when he is scared or surrounded by new people. He is shy, but an outgoing animal around those he knows and loves. He has beautiful blue eyes with eyelashes that go on for days, and curly hair that is most certain to drive the girls crazy someday. He loves his little brother. He loves animals and books. He is a happy little boy who strives to be a helper for mommy, daddy or brother. Even at the age of 2 he has such a wonderful personality. And he already has such a wonderful little heart. You can watch his face struggle with "I want to do this, but I know I am not supposed to. What to do?"


He had a wonderful birthday party. Filled with family, some friends, and lots of toys and laughter. He got Monkey cup cakes that looked awesome! The snacks were mostly animal themed- catepillars on a log and ants on a log, gummy bears, circus cookies, etc.

Jesse Jay made out with an amazing amount of toys. Elmo palooza, trucks, some clothes, an awesome Monster Hoody from Aunt Sarah (it's amazing!), books, blocks, toy tools, etc. He was in heaven. Usually he likes to go "bye-bye" with mama. When I invited him to go somewhere with me. "No, no, no." As he busily continued to play.

Grandma Sharon came into town for the occasion. She got her coveted photo with the boys. She bought matching outfits for them for the party. Aren't they super cute??

I did a little name research and found out that Jesse Jay's name meaning isn't just "wealthy & bird" Actually, it's based off the Hebrew and Latin for: "the Lord exists" and "happy." I think this fits him perfectly.

The Cutting Back TV Outcome

We have survived a week of very little TV. We are talking less than 6 hours total. More has been accomplished and the boys nap better throughout the day (as in go down without fussing and crying). My favorite thing has been watching Jesse Jay play more and become more creative. We don't miss the TV. We put on the music more and what a blessing to see little Jesse and his dancing (comical really).

With the upcoming new episodes/Fall premieres we may have to move our hour from Elmo to about after bed time. Though, considering I am getting a lot of OT this week (thank you God!) I probably won't even care. And I love that a lot of my shows are on the Internet now and I can watch them whenever I want too.

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Toby is still not really sleeping. Jesse is working on letting him cry it out. I slept on the futon upstairs to get some much needed rest (as I worked all weekend) and Jesse dealt with it. Hasn't changed anything. He is trying keeping him up a couple more hours to see if we can move the 3 am wakening to a more reasonable 5-6 am. Here is hoping. But oh boy, do I have the most wonderful husband in the world or what??

I just re-read that paragraph. Ewww... really? When did 5-6 am become reasonable???

This is one of those, God knows what he is doing moments. And we can see why Jesse doesn't have a job this year. We couldn't imagine both of us working AND going through these sleep problems.

The Boys' Halloween Costumes 2010

This year Jesse and I decided that the boys should be Thing 1 and Thing 2 from Dr. Seuss' The Cat and the Hat. Jesse and I made the outfits tonight and I think they turned out pretty cute:

It's hard to see but Thing 1 has "Thing A" in the back with a picture of Thing 1. And Thing 2 has "Chocolate Thunder" in the back with a picture of Thing 2. It's from the Mike Meyers version. We came up with the idea on the way to Oregon with Aunt Kimmie while they were watching the movie in the back of the car.

Also the boys will have matching red mittens, long red socks and red shoes to go with. I will not be dying their hair blue (sounds excessive in baby/toddler) but with use some washable hair glue to pull it up in true Dr. Suess fashion. What do you think?

Dear God, Please Help Toby Sleep....

Toby isn't sleeping. I suppose I should say he isn't sleeping well but when your exhausted everything goes to extremes. He has no fever. But incredibly fussy and prefers to be held ALL the time. When he wakes up, he screams like he is dying. He never wakes up happy. I finally caved after this has been going on for a couple weeks and had him checked. And he is fine. No ear infections or any obvious source for his grumpiness. He just loves his mama and daddy so much he can't stand being asleep and missing out on us, I guess. Somethings gotta give because I am losing my patience and possibly my sanity.

During the day he coos and smiles. I looked pretty silly having his ears checked the other day as Toby is smiling and babbling to the doctor. "Don't let him fool you, his evil twin comes out at night," I wanted to say.

He is such a different baby from Jesse Jay. Jesse Jay was the epitome of laid back. Not a whole lot phased him or got him riled up. He slept all night from 6 weeks on. Doesn't fuss much. Happy kid. I see him as the kid who breaks an arm, but doesn't act like anything is wrong until 3 weeks later when it's falling off (yea, I am being HIGHLY over dramatic, but you get the idea.)

Toby, I see as the man cold type. Poor little bunny has a cold. If you haven't seen the Man Cold.. You Tube it.. it is BEYOND hilarious. Now don't let me over exaggerate. He is still a very good baby. He fusses mildly, but is usually all giggles and smiles during the day. He just has a rotten time with sleep. And he will go a day or two sleeping all night, and then a week or so for pay back for the luxury. I was already at the point of mandatory coffee to get through the day coherently. This is pushing me a little over the edge. At least Jesse doesn't have to leave tomorrow for subbing until 820. Maybe we should try and get some sleep.

Lord knows if I stay up anticipating he will wake up, he sleeps. Until I nod off.. then let the screaming commence!

Wonderful Sunday with the Family

The house is quiet.

Jesse Jay went down to bed, so did Toby. Jesse (Sr) is subbing tomorrow and is headed to bed so he can go to the gym early- eww to 5 am!

We had a lovely day. Jesse and I talked today about how the TV is becoming too big of a distraction. We have this conversation every 3-6 months and go a few weeks TV free. And oh man, I do not miss it. I love the new HDTV and all, but sometimes it really is just an idiot box.

This morning was interesting. Jesse (Sr) is feeling under the weather. And I am a night owl. Meaning, he and Toby are always asleep before me. Because Jesse has a cold, he snores so I slept on the couch. I woke up at 640 am to Jesse Jay running out of his room and crying as he was running towards our room. I looked up and said, "Jesse Jay, mama is here." He stopped immediately. Listened again. So I repeated myself. He giggled. "Mama!" And came running over to me on the couch. We snuggled until Toby demanded us up at 715 am. Then daddy took the boys while I got to sleep another hour.

Because Daddy was sick, I went to church with the boys and Melinda. We had fun. Jesse Jay is oober shy though. He is pretty stoic in the nursery. I think preschool will be a good prep for school for him. He doesn't know what to do if someone he knows isn't in the room, or he doesn't have his Emma. It's interesting- instead of acting out or screaming- he just gets really quiet and behaves VERY well. This is definately a trait of his fathers.

Then we went to the Flying M with friends and chatted as we hadn't seen each other in such a long time. Then we came home to check on daddy. He got to rest and was feeling a little better and was doing laundry! Yay!

He canned some more Memphis-Style BBQ sauce he makes from scratch (and I mean tomatoes straight from our garden- and it is YUMMY) this afternoon while I put down Toby and Jesse Jay for naps. Jesse Jay was a terror and was way overtired. Took about an hour to get him to bed- after dumping over his humidifer.

As the boys slept, I went to Winco and got a few items to make dinner for everyone. I made a garlic white clam sauce with wheat pasta and tossed in diced zucchini and tomatoes. It was a yummy experiment.

Then we all went outside so Jesse Jay could play in his pool. He loves the pool and is a little fishie. He would never get out if he didn't have to. Jesse (Sr) and I played in the garden and cut herbs, tomatoes, zucchini and cucumbers. We had enough that I made pesto tonight that we will eat tomorrow. Mmmmmmmm.

We are starting a new bedtime routine where daddy takes Jesse Jay (Toby will get to go every other time when he is older) and picks out a book and reads to everyone. Jesse Jay brushes his teeth, gives kisses, and goes to bed without a peep. He really seemed to enjoy that tonight.

And not once did we stop to turn on the television. And we didn't regret it one bit. Sometimes its just an awful distraction.

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The boys are such good brothers and get along really well. Jesse Jay shares a lot with his brother and has picked up playing "PEEK BOO" with him. Toby laughs so hard- it's absolutely adorable. I have to get it on camera sometime because that will make an excellent memory to look back on. And when Daddy read a book to us tonight, Jesse Jay insisted on holding Toby's hand. (I melt).

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In other news Jesse has been fortunate that despite a bad economy for teachers, he got a third interview. This time for Vallivue School District (one of his favorites). He didn't get the job. But we are ok with that. Hopefully he will get a lot of subbing opportunities this year and be able to get one next year.

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Alright, this mama is toast from such a busy and productive day. Better get to bed. Toby will otherwise get it in his head that he needs to wake up WITH daddy at 5 am. Oh, pray he and his brother sleep in a little.

Canning, Canning, Canning

My husband loves to garden. Since we moved into our house he has had a garden. He loves it, and it gives him his little bit of farmer I think is just down right genetic! His whole family gardens and he is really good at growing stuff- he seriousluy makes it look effortless. Why does everything I touch seem to die? This year he promised the garden would be smaller. It's instead bigger, but we are getting a lot out of it:

This year we planted: carrots, sugar snap peas, 3 different kinds of tomatoes: cherry, roma, and beef steak, zucchini, cucumbers, ever-berry strawberries, herbs: chives, oregano, basil, dill, cilantro, oh- and green beans. Our green beans, cilantro, dill and cucumbers tried to die off this year. Luckily my neighbor sent her extra cucumber sprouts to us this year and we have had another productive year.

For Father's Day, I bought Jesse 2 dozen canning jars and a granite canning pot of his own. You'd have to know Jesse to understand that this wasn't a practical presents, but a really AWESOME one. And he has gotten such great use out of it.

So we are canning the tomatoes and a couple jars from todays picking's for pickles. He gets such a joy from this, and it's such a wonderful feeling making something from a seed and turning it into something you can use later. Oh, such pioneers are we! My grandma Judy would be so proud. My dad and mom gave us the thumbs up that Jesse got Grandma Judy's spicy dill recipe down pat. I think so too.. it's yummy.

Next year we are contemplating making raised beds. Probably will help on the weeding and the current location of our garden is getting shaded by our now very giant and beautiful willow tree. We also want to put in an apple tree in the side yard as its getting flooded easily over there and would provide cover to the bathroom window and shade for the dogs. Not to mention the stuffing of some YUMMY apple pie and I could make some dehydrated apple slices (a favorite snack of mine).

So looking forward to next summer and how our plans will turn out. We have a lot of idea's for home improvement projects- but we will have to wait for now. I love dreaming......... and creating!

A Day Off in the Life of Mommy Maddux

I love my boys.. I know, I say it all the time. But they truly are my pride and joy! This morning we are watching Elmo together (really whatever is on PBS) as daddy is at the Nampa School District filling out hiring paperwork with them to be a substitute teacher. I am drinking coffee and playing on the Internet.

Jesse Jay is cracking me up. As he watches Elmo he likes to spin in circles until he is so dizzy he almost falls over. Then he sneezes and has boogers all over his face. He runs up to me asking for me to wipe his nose, then starts spinning again. Then he is dancing. Shaking his hips as though he is Elvis. Wait, now he stops so he can talk on his Handy Manny saw, which he has quite convinced himself is really a cellphone, and talks to Aunt "Fafa" and Aunt "Mimi." Now he is throwing the phone, says "Noooooooooooooooooooooo" and then "Uh-oh." He runs to get the phone and starts talking on the saw again... oh wait, Elmo is on.

Rinse and repeat. He is so funny. He tried tickling my feet this morning. Silly goose. Now he counts.. "Un, tooooo, teeee, fooooow, fise......."

Then Toby. He was in his jumper today, which he only likes to tolerate for a few minutes before insisting on being held. I wouldn't say he is high maintenance, but certainly higher maintenance than Jesse Jay was at the same age. But then again, that's what I wanted. A second child that was a little more cuddly than Jesse Jay was- and that's certainly Toby. He was really upset and I tried to let it play out and him get over it. It worked. For about 15 minutes, then he was even more mad.

I rocked him and started to feed him. He fell asleep quickly. Overtired and overstimulated I guess. He slept about 20 minutes and started crying again. Now he is sitting up in my lap as a type. Completely enthralled with technology. They're daddy should be so proud. He loves playing with his toes and watching as I type.

Jesse Jay meanwhile is trying to dance like the people on the TV. So cute. Occasionally he stops to bring a toy to Toby. He is a pretty good sharer with his baby brother. He only occasionally steals his things. But if Toby starts crying he brings it back, or brings him his bottle or blanket. Such a little helper.

Now Daddy got home. We will finish some chores. Feed everybody lunch, get in a nap for Jesse Jay and then take the kids to the Rec Center pool before it becomes flooded with school kids. Then off to Lemon Tree to get letters with Toby's name on them for the playroom. I am contemplating having the short-version of the serenity prayer made up for the entry way as it would be a great daily reminder for me, and my family.

We are having fresh corn from Marie's (one of my nurses) garden, zucchini from our garden, and pulled pork in the crock pot for dinner. Sometime today both Jesse and I will go to the Rec for an hour to get a workout in. It has been helping immensely with weight loss, my attitude and I am sleeping so much better. I really missed the Rec Center. I love it. Its where I can get my workout, a little "me" time, and CABLE TV.

So, I will not delay this lovely day off any longer. I love my life. We are so blessed. Even if things don't always work out the way I think they should, God knows so much better.

Another Interview, Another Door Closes

Jesse got an interview Tuesday morning with ANOTHER elementary school in Kuna, this time Indian Creek. It went well. He didn't get it. The only reason was lack of start-up experience and since they already began and the principal would be tied up at two schools, she couldn't help out much. Rejection sucks. At least he has had a couple interviews. Everyone likes him, but it always comes down to the irritating "E" word- experience.

He did get an interview for substitute teaching for Nampa. So now a lot of districts he is subbing for. So ya- if you are a teacher for Nampa, Vallivue, Middleton, or Caldwell you should request him!

Interviews and the Babies

Jesse got an interview for a Kuna Elementary School position. It went really well too. He had great answers for all of their questions and got them laughing when they asked if he HAS kids. He answered "a 4 month old, and an almost two year old- now two year olds are scary." We were really hopeful, but he didnt get the position. He continues to look for last minute openings, but is resigned to that he is likely subbing again this year. It's just rotten, because Jesse is a gem and I know he will make a great school teacher. So if you're a teacher in Vallivue, Middleton, Caldwell, or Nampa Christian- Jesse is a great substitute!

The boys are doing well. Jesse Jay acts more and more like a two-year old every day. I must admit that I hate the word "no." Sometimes he gets in such an obstinate "no" mood and we will ask him, "Can you say anything else but the word no?" To which we quickly get "Nooooooooooooooooo!!!" He is saying other stuff and his words are getting more understandable, and he is putting words together. He can count to three, sometimes five.

Now Toby is still happy. But his sleeping habits are just erratic. He will sleep through the night and then wake up at 1am the next night. He keeps us on our toes and we never know what to expect. He is starting to sit up assisted.

Finances are tight, but we have to get back to the gym. My joints are all just aching every night, my back hasn't improved with resting it, and my insomnia propensity has returned. Plus my thyroid symptoms are getting better and I think if I started working out it would no longer be like running into a brick wall. More like at a slight incline.

Despite some of the less than ideal turnouts recently, we are all happy and everyone is healthy. I love my family. I have wonderful friends that care about us. Praise God!

The Serenity Prayer

Mostly because I need to hear it and remind myself....

God, grant us the...
Serenity to accept things we cannot change,
Courage to change the things we can, and the
Wisdom to know the difference
Patience for the things that take time
Appreciation for all that we have, and
Tolerance for those with different struggles
Freedom to live beyond the limitations of our past ways, the
Ability to feel your love for us and our love for each other and the
Strength to get up and try again even when we feel it is hopeless.

Amen.....

August 2010- Trip to Oregon

We went to Oregon last weekend (not the one that just past) to visit Jesse's parents and family, and drop off aunt Kimmy in Salem for my parents to pick her up and take her back home to Washington. It was a really good trip. We left early Friday morning (430 am) so the kiddos could sleep through at least part of the trip. We went through Burns and Bend through to Eugene and then down I-5. We had a lot of fun getting there and aunt Kimmy was so helpful entertaining the boys. She even shared her ipod with Jesse Jay.....

The boys got to love on and be loved on by relatives. Especially grandma Rose. I love this one of Toby and Grandma. :D

Jesse Jay loved playing with the buckets we went and picked blackberries with. Isn't he sooo funny? I sure think it's adorable.

Well, in a place like Myrtle Creek how can you NOT make sure your child actually gets to see and play in a creek. Jesse loved it and went nuts. When we tried to get ready to leave he cried and didn't want to get out. He had so much fun splashing and looking for "fishies."

When we picked blackberries, grandma Rose gave him his very own bucket. Any low berries he picked went into the bucket and then into his mouth. When we picked we would occasionally drop a berry or two in. They were quickly eaten (as you can see). He also enjoyed picking dandelions at Grandma's. There is one in his bucket if you look close.

Toby had a great time being a charmer and getting everyone to just ADORE him. He coo'ed at all the right moments. Only Aunt Wanda got an uncharacteristic meltdown. She seemed pretty forgiving and patient with it though.

We had a really great time seeing family, even though it was a short trip. We all wish we had more time to spend. We had pizza with the Maddux's and even got to go to church. Unfortunately Sunday morning Jesse discovered the car had a flat and the new Costco in Roseburg was the only place open and would not fix a tire.. but were more than willing to sell as a new one for 120 dollars. :(

We went up to Salem that day to visit my Uncle Larry and his family. We got to see my cousins kids and had a blast! Then we stayed the night up near Aurora with my Uncle Luke and his family. The next morning Grandpa and Grandma Arendt came by to see us, and loved on all of us before we had to head back home.

The trip was pretty easy going on the way back. We stopped in the Dalles at Cousins- one of Jesse's and my favorite restaurants. They serve country food and massive pastries. They even have a country store. We had a good time and a HUGE brunch to tide us over on our trip. Isn't that cinnamon roll amazing?

We had to pass on a trip to Multnomah Falls this time. My back has been killing me since the night before we left and had gotten worse, to the point I couldn't stand up straight. Hopefully I will be ready for it next time and the kids will want to go and hike the trail.

We had such a fun time. I can't wait until our next vacation. Hmm... when is THAT going to be?

The Loves of My Life

I'm more of a night owl. After work, I have a very hard time falling asleep and need a few hours to wind down. I just established care with a new family practice doctor, whom I adore, and I was diagnosed with postpartum thryoiditis. It's a problem that usually resolves on its own, but can lead to breastfeeding problems, moodiness, fatigue, insomnia, weight problems, you name it and it probably effects something.... but my point being is I have a hard time falling asleep and a really hard time waking up. I wish I could blame it on having an infant, but Jesse gets up with him. He truly is a wonderful husband and I am so blessed!

Despite all this, I , having a hard time falling asleep, have all three of my boys (Daddy, Jesse Jay, and Toby) asleep right now. They are so precious and wonderful to me. Each one of them is such a joy and I am just smitten with each of them. I am such a lucky wife and mother!

Toby's 4 Month Well Child Check

Toby saw Dr. Freeman (our fantastic pediatrician) today. He is a STRONG boy with excellent head control! Dr. Freeman went on and on about how advanced his motor control is.... (he sure knows how to win with this mama!). :) His growth is good too. Here are his stats:
Height = 26.5 inches (72nd percentile), weight= 14lbs 12.5 oz (33 percentile), head circumference = 16.5 inches (40th percentile).

He got his shots too. Again with the sleeping all day, wakes up cranky, and has a low grade fever (100.8 F or so). Poor baby. Hopefully it passes soon.

Jesse Jay got to go to the appointment too. He wore his OWN stethoscope for the occasion. He got a lot of "aww's" and "how cute." He was kind of a punk though when Toby got his shots. I swear he snickered at him! Such a brother! :) He actually smiled and interacted a bit with Dr. Freeman... he is so shy these days so its kind of wonderful when your child actually likes his pediatrician.

I got to show off Toby to some people at work after. We got a lot of "you have such a beautiful family" comments. I never get tired of hearing it, and must admit I completely agree. I love my boys!!

Hand Foot and Mouth Disease

Our house got the plague a couple weeks ago. I had just taken a shower with Jesse Jay when I noticed he had a blister on his foot. Then I noticed another, and another… and so on. Then I saw some on his hands. The PA in me took action and looked in his mouth and sure enough. Blisters on his tongue. Classic hand foot and mouth disease. He hasn’t had any REAL fever above 99.8 F or so, so it wasn’t something that presented the way it usually does. So we started isolating him from Toby.

But wouldn’t you know that 18 hours later, Toby started being irritable and a fussy eater. Then he got a couple blisters on his foot and one on his hand. His fever never was above 100.8 F. After two days everyone was down with some form of it, including my poor sister and husband. All I ever got was a sore throat, but I was so sure I had caused it. But then, an email from our church came to tell us that the nursery had an outbreak of it.

In other news, no word or peep from any school districts on jobs. We are accepting that Jesse will be subbing this year and spending more time with the kids. Hopefully he will get a few more interests next year. But as we see it, there is nothing horrible about spending more time at home with the kids. Especially since they are so little.

We went on a vacation to Oregon this week. It was quick and went by fast. It was a good time. The only bad thing is I have horrible back pain that will not go away. I go back to work today, and I still feel mentally and physically on vacation. I will blog more about our trip later, but for now this mama has to go get ready for work.

Milestones

Jesse Jay is teething. He has never been a good teether either, but this episode has been by far the worst, and probably because he has both 2nd year molars coming in on the right side, at the same time. He is biting, drooling like mad, cranky, fussy, mildly feverish, etc. The other day I went to check on him before I had to leave for work, and he just sat on his bed sobbing, holding his arms out for mama to pick him up, and saying "owie, owie, owie" and pointing to his teeth. It was tragic and adorable all at the same time. He did well once he had some Motrin and he LOVES his baby oragel this time.

The "owie" thing personally cracks me up because the only time he has EVER heard that is the morning before I had Toby, as I was contracting quite painfully and we were getting ready to go to the hospital. And he said it EXACTLY like I did that April 17th morning..... :) So cute.

He is doing better now. Still really cuddly. He loves kissing and licking people. Ya. Unfortunately he picked THAT up when he licked Toby and I laughed hysterically. Now it's nearly impossible to break him of it.

Toby remains as giggly and happy as ever. We were so worn down with Toby's refusal to sleep that we decided to retry things that hadn't worked previously to try and get him to sleep more. So we resumed swaddling in his flannel St. Luke's blanket. And for the past two nights, it has worked! He has slept 7 and then 8 and a half hours without interruptions the past couple nights. We are feeling less crazy and a lot more sane these past couple days.

And he can not only roll from his back to belly, but his belly to his back! He has been doing that for about 2 weeks now.

Today was his first time in the church nursery. He was either sleeping, or happy and giggly the whole time (I know because I was in there working).
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As for the parents: I am working lots of overtime. I still really love my job and like that everything is always new and there is something you have to learn all the time.

Jesse Sr has all of his applications in to school districts he would like to work for. In the event he does not get hired, he will be substitute teaching and spending time with the little ones. We are still waiting to hear something. We figured we probably wouldn't until this month.

We have a small vacation coming up in a couple weeks. We are visiting family in Myrtle Creek and Aurora Oregon. It'll be good to get out of town for a bit and have grandparents snuggle on the boys. Unfortunately we have to give my little sister back. It's been such a blessing to have her here and I am certain Jesse Jay is going to fall apart when she goes.