Butt crack of course.
Saturday, August 13, 2011
Future cheap labor
Collin loves to peer out his window and watch Mike work hard building a balcony. The plastic tool set is ready in case Mike needs any help. What makes a handy man complete?
Butt crack of course.
Butt crack of course.
13 weeks
And I've already got quite the baby bump. Maternity shopping to follow. Please no monster baby. I have a feeling I'll be waddling before my third trimester hits...
Summer fun
What does Summer mean when you're three? Playing outside everyday, all day if you could, staying up late, grass stained shorts, popsicles that melt down your face, catching bubbles and of course running through the sprinklers.
Saturday, August 6, 2011
Ch-ch-changes
By now, it's no secret that I'm expecting a second baby. Currently I'm in week 12, past most of the exhaustion and overall blahness. Luckily I never got sick but did feel queasy and absolutely fatigued. Collin appeased me most of the time by taking naps with me on my non work days.
I'm excited, but it's different than last time. Last time, I obsessively hunted online for any symptom that seemed strange, I researched each stage of the growing baby's development and had mini freak outs about the huge undertaking ahead of us.
This time I'm a little more relaxed about the whole thing. I still revel in the fact that there is a growing human inside of me and that's just cool. But the mystery isn't as prominent and I just don't have the time to obsess about how my life will be different.
I mean, I work three days a week (or more), am mother to a wild three-year old and also try to fit in photography, cooking/baking, cleaning/household crap, and in the back of my mind am also telling myself I need to start writing for myself again.
To top it off, we're trying to fix up (I should say Mike is fixing) our house as fast as possible so we can get it on the market, sell and buy a new one all before the second baby makes an appearance. Our days consist of this: Mike comes home, works on the house until Collin goes to bed, we may have a brief conversation, but dinner together rarely happens. Weekend hikes, exploring, and enjoying the beautiful Pacific NW summer just isn't happening.
And I know it's temporary. That one day, we'll be in a new house, preferably a NEW house, that doesn't have numerous issues that suck our money and time. And can actually enjoy weekends together. And Collin and his sibling can ride their bikes down the street without me feeling like I have to watch every second.
For now, the baby that's growing inside of me is a passing thought that I'm reminded of when I get annoying braxton-hicks contractions, have to pee every half hour and well second time around, my belly is popping out earlier. Buttons and zippers are starting to feel like corsets and the stretchy pants are a must. I also know once I start feeling the flutters and kicks it will seem more real.
And as the time gets closer, freak-outs will happen. Mostly wondering how my life will be different with two kids. How to make sure Collin still feels loved but at the same time doesn't hurt the baby. How my career will be affected. Daycare. Money. But I have until around February to figure things out. Or to just let things fall where they may and hope it makes sense.
Because one thing I've learned in parenthood is nothing can really prepare you for what's to come.
I'm excited, but it's different than last time. Last time, I obsessively hunted online for any symptom that seemed strange, I researched each stage of the growing baby's development and had mini freak outs about the huge undertaking ahead of us.
This time I'm a little more relaxed about the whole thing. I still revel in the fact that there is a growing human inside of me and that's just cool. But the mystery isn't as prominent and I just don't have the time to obsess about how my life will be different.
I mean, I work three days a week (or more), am mother to a wild three-year old and also try to fit in photography, cooking/baking, cleaning/household crap, and in the back of my mind am also telling myself I need to start writing for myself again.
To top it off, we're trying to fix up (I should say Mike is fixing) our house as fast as possible so we can get it on the market, sell and buy a new one all before the second baby makes an appearance. Our days consist of this: Mike comes home, works on the house until Collin goes to bed, we may have a brief conversation, but dinner together rarely happens. Weekend hikes, exploring, and enjoying the beautiful Pacific NW summer just isn't happening.
And I know it's temporary. That one day, we'll be in a new house, preferably a NEW house, that doesn't have numerous issues that suck our money and time. And can actually enjoy weekends together. And Collin and his sibling can ride their bikes down the street without me feeling like I have to watch every second.
For now, the baby that's growing inside of me is a passing thought that I'm reminded of when I get annoying braxton-hicks contractions, have to pee every half hour and well second time around, my belly is popping out earlier. Buttons and zippers are starting to feel like corsets and the stretchy pants are a must. I also know once I start feeling the flutters and kicks it will seem more real.
And as the time gets closer, freak-outs will happen. Mostly wondering how my life will be different with two kids. How to make sure Collin still feels loved but at the same time doesn't hurt the baby. How my career will be affected. Daycare. Money. But I have until around February to figure things out. Or to just let things fall where they may and hope it makes sense.
Because one thing I've learned in parenthood is nothing can really prepare you for what's to come.
Thursday, August 4, 2011
San Diego Adventure
This is only about 1 month late but I'm finally getting around to it!
We decided to explore San Diego for about a week over the fourth of July. We stayed at the Embassy Suites in La Jolla which was nice and roomy (and a good value), complete with a complimentary happy hour every night with unlimited drinks, which I couldn't partake in...and a full made-to-order breakfast. The hotel was definitely targeted for families. Collin loved the Koi fish in the pond and pressing the elevator button. I think he would've been happy doing that all day. He also had fun swimming in the pool and dipping his feet in the hot tub. The downside of the hotel was the location. While we could drive about 15 minutes into town, we were in the middle of a bunch of businesses and there was nothing close we could walk to. We also had to barricade the couch against the door to make sure Collin didn't escape.
La Jolla is beautiful and expensive. We drove around the bluffs and million dollar houses. We had some gut bomb pizza and I got my Mexican fix. We also walked by the ocean though didn't really hang at the beach too much. When you're used to Hawaii beaches where you can actually swim it just doesn't compare.
Tom and Virginia met up with us and we walked around the boardwalk in downtown San Diego and explored the maritime museum complete with submarines, old fashioned sailing ships and a pirate who gave him his own doubloon. We also checked out the USS Midway Museum, the longest-serving Navy aircraft carrier of the 20th century. It was massive and had lots of cool aircraft and sights for Collin to explore.
We got our moneys worth at the San Diego zoo and spent almost the whole day there! It was crazy busy (mental note, don't plan trips around the 4th) but still fun. Collin seemed to enjoy the flamingos and the koalas. The pandas were also out for us to see after waiting in a long line.
That evening, we ended up at a park where we feasted on double double animal style In-N-Out Burgers (plus a milkshake and fries). So not healthy but sometimes you just crave a cheap, good old fashioned burger!
The 4th was a nice change of pace (no crowds, no craziness!) and we met up with Collin's new buddy Saul and my friend Robin. Collin and Saul got along great and chased each other around, swam in the pool and followed Saul's older brother around.
Then that night we saw an awesome fireworks display at Robin's synagogue. The view was amazing with the fireworks coming from over the hill and literally felt like they were spilling down on us. I managed to get a few cool shots.
Finally we made it to Sea World. It was HOT when we got there. Poor Mike, who doesn't take heat well was dripping bowls of sweat while we waited for our first show. It was also crowded but the shows, while cheesy (I don't really need the story lines or music, just show me the animals doing tricks) were definitely worthwhile. We didn't make it to too many exhibits but Mike chased Collin around a giant kids area where he had to hoist Collin up a huge net. We stayed about four hours and then were ready to leave.
One of my favorite parts of our trip was Balboa Park, where the Zoo and a bunch of other museums are. It was really beautiful and we hiked around a palm forest, walked around the gardens and just took in all the sights. We went back there twice and I could've spent another full day there.
Unfortunately the last day of our trip wasn't so fun. Mike, who has seriously bad vacation juju when it comes to getting sick, ended up shivering and running a fever. You know Mike's not well when he wants to wear a hoodie and it's 90 degrees out. I was also feeling pretty crappy as I was hitting those lovely first trimester blahs. And Collin was a tornado running around and trying to kill himself in traffic. The highlight was back at PDX while I was trying to grab a bag and Mike looked like he was about to pass out, Collin ran through the big rotating glass doors. Luckily airport security stopped him. Ah yes, never a dull moment.
We made it home ready to pass out and it turned out Mike had strep throat which luckily Collin and I didn't catch. Besides that last day, our summer vacation was pretty fun, though not what you'd call relaxing with a 3-year old wild-man.
We decided to explore San Diego for about a week over the fourth of July. We stayed at the Embassy Suites in La Jolla which was nice and roomy (and a good value), complete with a complimentary happy hour every night with unlimited drinks, which I couldn't partake in...and a full made-to-order breakfast. The hotel was definitely targeted for families. Collin loved the Koi fish in the pond and pressing the elevator button. I think he would've been happy doing that all day. He also had fun swimming in the pool and dipping his feet in the hot tub. The downside of the hotel was the location. While we could drive about 15 minutes into town, we were in the middle of a bunch of businesses and there was nothing close we could walk to. We also had to barricade the couch against the door to make sure Collin didn't escape.
La Jolla is beautiful and expensive. We drove around the bluffs and million dollar houses. We had some gut bomb pizza and I got my Mexican fix. We also walked by the ocean though didn't really hang at the beach too much. When you're used to Hawaii beaches where you can actually swim it just doesn't compare.
Tom and Virginia met up with us and we walked around the boardwalk in downtown San Diego and explored the maritime museum complete with submarines, old fashioned sailing ships and a pirate who gave him his own doubloon. We also checked out the USS Midway Museum, the longest-serving Navy aircraft carrier of the 20th century. It was massive and had lots of cool aircraft and sights for Collin to explore.
We got our moneys worth at the San Diego zoo and spent almost the whole day there! It was crazy busy (mental note, don't plan trips around the 4th) but still fun. Collin seemed to enjoy the flamingos and the koalas. The pandas were also out for us to see after waiting in a long line.
That evening, we ended up at a park where we feasted on double double animal style In-N-Out Burgers (plus a milkshake and fries). So not healthy but sometimes you just crave a cheap, good old fashioned burger!
The 4th was a nice change of pace (no crowds, no craziness!) and we met up with Collin's new buddy Saul and my friend Robin. Collin and Saul got along great and chased each other around, swam in the pool and followed Saul's older brother around.
Then that night we saw an awesome fireworks display at Robin's synagogue. The view was amazing with the fireworks coming from over the hill and literally felt like they were spilling down on us. I managed to get a few cool shots.
Finally we made it to Sea World. It was HOT when we got there. Poor Mike, who doesn't take heat well was dripping bowls of sweat while we waited for our first show. It was also crowded but the shows, while cheesy (I don't really need the story lines or music, just show me the animals doing tricks) were definitely worthwhile. We didn't make it to too many exhibits but Mike chased Collin around a giant kids area where he had to hoist Collin up a huge net. We stayed about four hours and then were ready to leave.
One of my favorite parts of our trip was Balboa Park, where the Zoo and a bunch of other museums are. It was really beautiful and we hiked around a palm forest, walked around the gardens and just took in all the sights. We went back there twice and I could've spent another full day there.
Unfortunately the last day of our trip wasn't so fun. Mike, who has seriously bad vacation juju when it comes to getting sick, ended up shivering and running a fever. You know Mike's not well when he wants to wear a hoodie and it's 90 degrees out. I was also feeling pretty crappy as I was hitting those lovely first trimester blahs. And Collin was a tornado running around and trying to kill himself in traffic. The highlight was back at PDX while I was trying to grab a bag and Mike looked like he was about to pass out, Collin ran through the big rotating glass doors. Luckily airport security stopped him. Ah yes, never a dull moment.
We made it home ready to pass out and it turned out Mike had strep throat which luckily Collin and I didn't catch. Besides that last day, our summer vacation was pretty fun, though not what you'd call relaxing with a 3-year old wild-man.
Thursday, July 21, 2011
Ugh I'm so behind
June, July where did you go? I can't believe it's nearing August already. Never mind the hundreds of photos waiting to be uploaded from our vacation and just everyday life. I'll get to them soon, promise.
I'm still waiting for summer to start--well it starts then goes back to blah, then teases us again. Meanwhile the rest of the country is suffering in a heat wave so I suppose I shouldn't complain. Mike is busy trying to finish up the house and I'm busy with work and a certain mischief maker.
Collin at three is busy, busy. He talks like a real person now which is pretty cool. Of course conversations don't always make sense. Time isn't really linear when you're three so a conversation about school can turn into, "I played with Spencer. We went on the airplane. I saw Nona and Papa."
His long lush curls are gone sadly because I tried to trim his hair. And trimmed a little more. And a little more. And pretty soon he looked ridiculous so I took him in to the salon and voila instant summer look. I miss the curls but it does mature him and it's easier to manage.
As for the mischief part...The other day I was upstairs getting ready and Mike had just left for work. The door was dead-bolted and chained yet pretty soon I noticed the house was quiet. And then I had that burning feeling in my stomach and sure enough the door was wide open. I ran down the street where Collin was strolling with a football under his arm about to reach a busy street, nearly a block away.
After that heart attack Mike bought a lock ready to install high above the door, hopefully too high for Houdini to reach. I must say, I'm happy we have an independent and smart kiddo, but the fact that caution is not in his mindset at all scares the crap out of me. I don't even want to think about Collin at sixteen.
The mischief doesn't end there of course. Here's what happened when Collin got a hold of some toilet paper. Yes he doesn't have pants on.
I'm still waiting for summer to start--well it starts then goes back to blah, then teases us again. Meanwhile the rest of the country is suffering in a heat wave so I suppose I shouldn't complain. Mike is busy trying to finish up the house and I'm busy with work and a certain mischief maker.
Collin at three is busy, busy. He talks like a real person now which is pretty cool. Of course conversations don't always make sense. Time isn't really linear when you're three so a conversation about school can turn into, "I played with Spencer. We went on the airplane. I saw Nona and Papa."
His long lush curls are gone sadly because I tried to trim his hair. And trimmed a little more. And a little more. And pretty soon he looked ridiculous so I took him in to the salon and voila instant summer look. I miss the curls but it does mature him and it's easier to manage.
As for the mischief part...The other day I was upstairs getting ready and Mike had just left for work. The door was dead-bolted and chained yet pretty soon I noticed the house was quiet. And then I had that burning feeling in my stomach and sure enough the door was wide open. I ran down the street where Collin was strolling with a football under his arm about to reach a busy street, nearly a block away.
After that heart attack Mike bought a lock ready to install high above the door, hopefully too high for Houdini to reach. I must say, I'm happy we have an independent and smart kiddo, but the fact that caution is not in his mindset at all scares the crap out of me. I don't even want to think about Collin at sixteen.
The mischief doesn't end there of course. Here's what happened when Collin got a hold of some toilet paper. Yes he doesn't have pants on.
Monday, May 9, 2011
One Lucky Mama
Even though Mother's Day is pretty Hallmark, there's always good reason to honor your mom. Especially if you happen to be lucky like Mike and myself with mothers who have given you way more than you can possibly express in a card or a gift. It wasn't until I became a mother that I realized how damn challenging (and rewarding) this role would be!
I feel fortunate that I've got a kiddo to celebrate Mother's Day with. He drives me nuts, he's a wild, crazy, mini teenager in a three year old's body but he gives me the sweetest kisses, big hugs, and tells me stories that make me laugh. He greeted me with a bouquet of flowers and "Happy Mother's Day" in his cute little voice.
I've also got a supportive husband who appreciates me and also gave me a nice break for Mother's Day. Mike surprised me with an hour massage appointment which left me feeling high. My tense, strained muscles from running and hauling a heavy kid so appreciated it.
Thank you to all the moms out there (especially ours) who help your kids grow up and learn to fly.
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