All About Barrett and Griffin

December

2009-12-14T12:39:00.001-07:00

November moments

2009-12-14T12:34:00.000-07:00

Gone So Long...

2009-12-14T12:24:00.005-07:00

October photos

(This ones for you, Joyce)

Well, things have been very busy around our house as of late. I have been teaching quite a bit, which really doesn't leave me much free time for updating the blog. Barrett has been enjoying his gymnastics class and making new friends, and Griffin has just been going along for the ride. Speaking of Griffin, that little man is growing up way too fast. He is just about walking. He has already taken a few steps. He likes to show off his standing skills by lifting his arms up in the air - it is like he is saying "Tada!" Barrett is just growing like a weed. He is so tall and chatting up a storm. We really have to watch our language around him because he repeats everything. Kimball has been busy doing home improvements and is very much looking forward to some skiing. Well, that is our update in a nutshell. We hope everyone has a wonderful Christmas and New Year! I will update again in the New Year!

September Moments

2009-09-28T15:30:00.004-06:00

Griff enjoying a bit of watermelon. Cheesing it up!

Bear dancing at our friend's wedding in Sun Valley with his buddy Leah.

Making the moves on the new bride...

And let's not leave out Leah's big sis, Kayla!

A little do rag for the Griffster...

He is on a mission to crawl or walk.... not sure which!

Photo ops

2009-07-13T20:10:00.001-06:00

Some random pics of the boys over the last month or so.

Lucky Peak

2009-07-09T16:52:00.002-06:00

We spent Monday at Lucky Peak with my cousin Alexa and her friend Ropie (have no idea if I spelled that right). Kimball needed a break from painting the house - I will be posting some pics soon; just need to get out and take some... the house is beautiful by the way! The girls flying on the tube!

Do you think they are having fun yet??? Actually they wouldn't get off the tube. They rode for a couple hours I think.

Barrett "pushing" Kimball off the dock.

The "mad banana"! We had one of these of Barrett and just had to recapture the moment by torturing poor Griff.

Alexa and Barrett...

Showing off my photography "skills"... the girls jumping off the dock.

BSU

2009-07-09T16:50:00.000-06:00

The boys have been getting along marvelously! Check them out in their BSU gear!

Summer days

2009-06-04T15:38:00.005-06:00

We are missing Kimball terribly while he is Taiwan, but luckily my friend Elizabeth is here helping us out. Kimball asked for some pictures of the family, so here they are!

Griff's 3 month portraits

2009-05-25T08:44:00.003-06:00

Spring Flowers

2009-05-14T13:22:00.001-06:00

Body Art

2009-05-14T13:06:00.001-06:00

Barrett is so naughty when it comes to markers....
Check out his body art.

Tummy Time!

2009-05-14T13:04:00.001-06:00

I can't believe Griffin is going to be three months this weekend! Boy time flies!

Here are some pictures I took of him last nigh while we were doing tummy time.

Trouble

2009-05-14T12:59:00.001-06:00

Kimball and I were enjoying a quiet moment when I suddenly remembered that quiet was not always a good thing when the kids are awake.
Soon, Barrett appeared like this.

I asked him what he was doing, and this is what he showed me.

What, don't you like my creation?

Say CHEESE!

2009-04-30T14:06:00.001-06:00

Gotta love those first smiles!

Matching

2009-04-30T14:05:00.001-06:00

Kimball doesn't understand why I need to dress the boys in matching outfits...

Who couldn't resist these cuties?

This man got his first shots on Wed. He weights 15 lbs 3 oz and is 100% for weight. He is 95% for height and 92% for head circumfrence.

And, this man weighs 34.8 lbs... and is 90% for weight and 100% for height!

Boys...

2009-04-30T14:01:00.001-06:00

Griffin's favorite nap spot... and he is out!

Aw, Mom, why you gotta dress me up all funny like this?

Enjoying the nice weather and hanging at the park.

Playing with cousin Ebin.

In Bloom

2009-04-30T13:59:00.001-06:00

I love spring... the flowers are blooming, and Bear can play outside.

I have been experimenting with the camera.

Precious actually not running away from Barrett.

Peek a Boo

2009-04-25T14:36:00.001-06:00

My mom took these cute pics of Bear out in their backyard this morning.

Easter at the Lowry's

2009-04-14T11:28:00.000-06:00

The Griffster

2009-04-14T11:07:00.003-06:00

Little Griff is a sweet boy... but he has acid reflux and colic so our afternoons/evenings are not always so pleasant. (I feel for you, Jen. I don't know how you dealt with this so well with Bella). Barrett was such an easy baby - I think I was spoiled with the first one.

My chunky monkey already weighs 13 lbs 12 oz. That was last week at a dr appt for the acid reflux issue.

Oh, those rare, yet so precious, first smiles!

Speaking of doctor's visits... Barrett gave us quite the scare this week. I went to wake him up and found him crying and burning up. I put him in a lukewarm bath and he went into convulsions - eyes rolled back in the head and everything. Scared me to death. Grabbed him and called 911. We rode in the ambulance (all three of us) to the ER and his temp wa 102.5 there. I am sure it was higher than that when he woke up. They diagnosed him as having a febrile seizure. I guess this is pretty common for little kids with high fevers, but it scared me bad. He is doing much better now, though, thank goodness! The most scary thing, I think, was that he was just fine the day and night before. The fever came out of nowhere and was his only symptom of illness til he got a runny nose and cough yesterday...

Hey, Can you hear me?

2009-04-14T10:56:00.001-06:00

Barrett is really into talking on the phone - the hand phone.

He has very in depth conversations with the people on the other line, probably also talking on their hand phones.

Yo, homey, what's up?

A Bear at the Zoo

2009-04-14T10:49:00.002-06:00

We visited the new African exhibit at the Boise zoo...

this was the best picture of the lion I could get... I think I need a zoom lens.

The educational displays were pretty cool though.

We also took a ride on the carousel.

Easter

2009-04-14T10:45:00.000-06:00

Loving baby brother

My boys.

I am experimenting with the camera; unfortunately this resulted in Griff being washed out...

Bear's Baby Bro

2009-03-30T13:13:00.001-06:00

Bath time

naked baby

One month

2009-03-18T13:54:00.003-06:00

I snuck off to take a shower one morning and put Griffin in the bassinet in our room. When I got out of the shower I noticed that the music had changed on the music player. I found this:

Barrett just can't resist snuggling up with his baby brother.

Tiny hands

Sweet pouty lips

And a sleepy grin.

Griffy one week old

2009-03-01T10:10:00.001-07:00

Some random pictures of Griffin.

Brotherly Love

2009-03-01T10:06:00.001-07:00

Barrett is infatuated with his baby brother.

He gets so excited when he gets to hold him...

He says, "I hold, Gee." Of course, when he is done holding him he just pushes him away, so you can't leave him alone with him for a second.

And, Bear wants to be everywhere his brother is... Kind of sweet, I think.

The boys

2009-02-24T17:12:00.004-07:00

Daddy and his boys. Mama and her boys.

Giving baby brother a kiss...

Griff in Hospital

2009-02-24T17:08:00.001-07:00

Here are some pictures (unedited) that our friend Jason took of Griffin and Bear in the hospital.

Bear wasn't quite sure what he thought about his brother yet, but now he loves him...

More pics

2009-02-20T18:27:00.000-07:00

The Griff is here!!! Weewhoo

2009-02-17T14:13:00.003-07:00

Griffin was born on 2/17/09 at 7:59AM. Weighing 9 lbs. 1 oz. 21 inches long.

He's learning to feed as I write. Both he and mom are doing good.

Griff's big brother Bear is excited to come and meet him.

Dad is very proud of his wife and boys.

Here's to Griff....cheers. KL

Two year portraits

2009-02-09T12:39:00.003-07:00

Here are some scans of Barrett's two year portraits. I think they turned out pretty darn cute!

We had to get some baby belly and Bear pictures too!

Speaking of baby bellies... I went to my ultrasound this morning (thanks JoAnn for coming with me!) and it looks like this new little guy is already weighing about 9 lbs 8 0z and is measuring at 41 weeks. They said he was going to be chunky! I go to the doctor tomorrow for my 38 week check, but it looks like I will end up having a c-section since he will be close to 10 at delivery! Good grief! I just about had a heart attack at the appt - especially when they told me the initial numbers wer 9 lbs 13 oz! At 38 weeks! That is crazy!!! Glad I am having him a week early!!!

Barrett's 2nd Birthday

2009-02-08T11:36:00.001-07:00

Here are a whole bunch of pictures from Barrett's birthday. The first ones are from his actual birthday on the 29th and the rest are from his birthday party on the 31st.

37 weeks

2009-02-06T12:16:00.003-07:00

We are getting close! At my dr. appt on Tuesday I was dilated 1 cm. I have an ultrasound on Monday to see how big he is. Right now we are scheduled for induction on the 17th, but that may change if the ultrasound shows he is really big...

I look awful in this picture... I have a sinus infection and I have been pretty miserable...

I am going to upload some pictures from Bear's 2nd birthday here soon... promise!

Anonymous

2009-01-23T16:21:00.001-07:00

I really love reading the comments everyone leaves, so if you are posting a comment Anonymously will you please put in your name so I know who you are???

35 week belly

2009-01-22T15:18:00.000-07:00

We have a date!

2009-01-20T18:36:00.003-07:00

I just went to the doctor today for my 35 week check-up and we set a date for delivery. Griffin will be here on February 17th! I am still measuring big - 37 1/2 weeks big at this appt! We will be doing an ultrasound at the end of 37 weeks/beginning of 38 weeks to see how big he is. Depending on that we will either plan for an induction or c-section on the 17th, but either way that will be the date - unless of course he has his own plans for coming earlier ; )

Chuie and Ziggy

2009-01-12T09:52:00.002-07:00

This is nearly an every day occurence, but I rarely catch it on film.

Poor Chuie, those cats just love her...

Uncle Eric and Bear's Bday Celebration

2009-01-12T09:50:00.002-07:00

We celebrated Uncle Eric birthday on Sunday...

And Barrett's a few weeks early.

He got a lot of help from his cousins opening presents.

He really didn't want to go home.

Fun Times

2009-01-12T09:48:00.001-07:00

Being silly with Dad.

New car...

I got this for only $10! Bear loves it. He throws a fit every time we try to take him out. We may have created a monster...

Happy Boy

2009-01-12T09:46:00.000-07:00

33 weeks and counting...

2009-01-12T09:44:00.001-07:00

These are from last week. At my doc appt I measured 34 1/2 weeks.

Notice that my shirts are all getting too short...

At the park...

2009-01-02T16:19:00.004-07:00

We decided to hang at the park today. It was a bit cold with the wind chill, but Barrett never seems to mind. When it was time to leave he just kept repeating "outside, outside!"

Can you sense the excitement?

I have gone a little blog crazy today... make sure you check the next page so you don't miss any part of our exciting lives : )

Will post some new belly pictures real soon!

At the cabin...

2009-01-02T16:13:00.002-07:00

Well, this first one isn't at the cabin. Barrett likes to unload the china cabinet. This time he dressed himself up and then proceeded to dress up Chuie. So, we brought all these new toys to the cabin for Barrett to play with, and what does he decide he enjoys most?

The pitchers and pots and pans, of course!

Say cheese!

I love little boys in overalls...

Christmas memories...

2009-01-02T16:01:00.002-07:00

Chief, Nate and Brion singing for the Lowry family on Christmas Eve. Bear and his cousins watching the annual "talent show."

Our own little lamb.

Watching the talent very intently.

Look what Santa brought our little man...

Getting out some more presents.

What could this be?

Oh, so much fun!

Hanging with cousin Makayla

2009-01-02T15:57:00.003-07:00

Barrett loves his cousin Makayla... they had a good time hanging out the other day.

They played dress-up with beads.

And peek-a-boo.

Cousin Bella even stopped by for a visit...

Sledding with Dad

2009-01-02T15:52:00.001-07:00

We did have some good snow here for awhile, but, unfortunately, it has pretty much melted away. Some of us are hoping we will get another good storm so we can go sledding again!

Even Chuie joined in the fun!

30 weeks

2008-12-18T06:57:00.000-07:00

I am looking real tired in these pictures... I am still measuring 2 weeks big.

Doctors says I just make big boys. I am hoping his head isn't as big as Barrett's, otherwise, we will be doing a c-section.

Will do an ultrasound at 38 weeks to see how big he is and go from there.

Snow Days

2008-12-17T08:29:00.000-07:00

We got our first good snow of the season...

Poor Bear could hardly move with all his snow gear on.

Chuie enjoyed it though!

Look who's a big boy now...

2008-12-17T08:24:00.000-07:00

Sorry told his Mommy that he needed to go pee pee on the toilet...

and guess who went pee pee on the toilet?

I am very excited that he is interested, but we are not pushing the issue. I figure with the new baby coming, potty training will most likely take a back seat for a month or so.

28 weeks

2008-12-05T14:49:00.003-07:00

Here I am at 28 weeks. I am feeling huge. I am very much looking forward to not going to term!

Happy Holidays!

2008-11-30T16:48:00.000-07:00

Who is that bearded guy in the funny outfit?

2008-11-25T16:06:00.000-07:00

We went to see Santa today. Barrett wasn't quite sure what to think. He almost refused to sit on Santa's lap, but I finally coaxed him into it.

Of course, promptly after taking these pictures he ran to me for a hug, and I leaned over, with the camera around my neck, and whacked him in the eye. Oh, I felt terrible. As if he didn't already have some issues with Santa, now I have ruined him for life.

On a lighter note, I went to the doc today for the 27 week check-up/glucose test and I am still measuring 2 weeks big. Doc says there is no way we are going to 40 weeks - yipee! We will do an ultrasound at 38 weeks to see how big the baby is and most likely plan an induction at 39 weeks, unless, of course, he is huge, in which case we may have to plan a C-section. Hoping for the natural delivery...
So be on the look out for a new Lowry boy around Valentine's Day.

What's new

2008-11-19T09:50:00.000-07:00

Here I am at 24 weeks... I am measuring 26 weeks so even though I don't look like I have changed that much, the baby is really big and really low!

Yummy cookies!

What are you looking at? Do you like my new haircut?

Leaves

2008-11-19T09:46:00.000-07:00

Here are some pictures of Barrett playing in the leaves at Grandma and Grandpa Stanley's a few weeks ago. I took these with our new camera; I think I took about a 100 pictures...

Grandpa is blowing Bear with the leaf blower.

Poor Chuie

2008-11-03T14:57:00.000-07:00

Bear has taken to carrying around all the blankets and all of the pillows and placing them strategically around and on Chuie. The dog is very patient and lays there while he does this. Don't worry, there really isn't any menace behind that look on Chuie's face.

Okay, kid so where did you go?

And another day.... poor dog. Bear will just follow her around and do this routine all over again even after she gets up and moves away.

Love Chuie!

Dress Up

2008-11-03T14:46:00.002-07:00

Bear loves to wear this vest of Kimball's. He is also very interested in flipping the light switches on and off. He has also taken to wearing this hat. In fact, the other day when my Grandma was watching him he brought her his shoes, his vest, and this hat. Wish I had a picture of that one : )

Can you say "Moo." Here is Bear in his cow costume at Andrea and Scott's. It was Kortlyn and Katelyn's birthday parties. He is carrying my wand - I was the Sugar Plump Fairy.

Makayla and Bear playing with the new kittens.

Check out the rump on that cow!

Ever wonder what Barrett would look like as a rock star? Would have to lose the binky of course.

Love this picture! He loved his costume....

as long as the hood wasn't on.

Even though it was supposed to be a 2T-4T, it was a bit tight! Get this thing off ME!

Pumpkin Patch

2008-11-03T14:41:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago we went to Linder Farms for Barrett's buddy Koen's third birthday. Here are Barrett and Salem in the tractor pull.

Barrett really wanted to go down the slide, but he was too little to climb up by himself so Mommy had to go with him. Mommy was exhausted but Barrett had a great time!

Love the horses!

I tried to get a good pumpkin patch picture, but he wasn't nearly as cooperative as last year!

20 months and 20 weeks...

2008-10-11T11:23:00.000-06:00

The last of the cast pictures... thankfully, Barrett had his cast removed yesterday. Turns out he actually broke three bones in his hand, not just two. He broke the bones in the hand that correspond to his three middle fingers. The only one we need to watch for is the ring finger bone in the hand (the one we didn't know about) because that break is close to the growth plate. The doctor thinks he should be fine though!

Here I am at 20 weeks. I feel like a blimp already. I have only gained 9 lbs so far... I think with Barrett I had gained over 20 at this point.

I figure if I only gain another 20 pounds I am well with in the recommended weight gain.

We need to go shopping for a new winter jacket for Barrett (like the hat, its mine). We had SNOW in Boise yesterday! We broke a record for earliest measurable snowfall. Of course it is pretty much melted now, but we sure enjoyed it while it lasted!

Lately

2008-10-06T14:42:00.003-06:00

I have been eating lots of yogurt... I like this blue Trix kind cause it matches my cast ; )

Do you like cheese? I like cheese a lot, but most of all I like to eat cheese in small places like this laundry basket.

Hmmm, not sure why my mom has this book, but it sure looks funny!

I really like to put on my mom or dad's shoes. Makes me feel like a grown up even though I fall over a lot.

I went to the park with Mom and Dad and Chuie. That's my coold new minivan in the background.

The swings are still one of my favorite things to do at the park.

This slide looks pretty cool too! Dad is trying to be creative photographly.

Guess what?

2008-09-24T13:13:00.000-06:00

Here are some of the ultrasound images for our latest addition...

tiny little feet...

cute little face and hands...

and, oh my, what is this? Not a girl as everyone suspected ; ) I should just trust my gut instincts... I thought it was a boy off the bat, but then was slowly convinced we were having a girl. Surprise, surprise, it is a little boy after all :)
Everything looks good so far, took some bloodwork just to make sure. But it looks like this little guy will be following in his big brother's footsteps - he is measuring about a week ahead, but not enough to change my due date.

Ouch!

2008-09-22T11:27:00.000-06:00

Barrett had a little accident on the 13th. He was having a good ol' time playing in a pond when his hand got caught under a rock (or so I think)... anyways, when his face went under water I quickly yanked him out. Took him to the ER and he broke two bones in his hand. This is the ER cast they put on him - not very helpful for getting dressed or being an active boy.

We had a good time at the cabin this last weekend even though the weather was a little rainy; Bear did get to test out his new raincoat though ; )

And here he is in his fancy new cast. He doesn't seem to mind it one bit.

He still loves putting shoes on - the bigger the better! He even put his own shoes on the other day and on the correct feet too! What a big boy!

What's going on?

2008-09-12T09:46:00.000-06:00

Our little Barrett loves to play with the telephone. Luckily, we don't have long distance on our home line so if he does call someone it shouldn't cost us more than a good laugh. The other day I was talking to Kimball on the office phone and Barrett picked up the phone in the living room. Now, the phone in the living room is not at his level so he had to climb on the recliner and stand on the arm to reach it. Little stinker....

I love this picture of Barrett.... he just loves playing in the water.

Here I am at 16 1/2 weeks. I have only gained 4 pounds so far compared to the 15 I gained with Barrett at this point. I am measuring about a week ahead, which is how I measured with Barrett. We have our ultrasound on the 24th and I can't wait to find out what this one is.... Any guesses? Take my poll and put in your guess.

18 months and going wild

2008-08-21T09:51:00.000-06:00

Here are some recent pictures of Barrett. Things have been crazy around here lately. I have had miserable morning sickness and then when I just started to get over that I caught Barrett's cold. Both of us are in our second week but starting to feel better...

Barrett has been into wearing our shoes. The other day he had my heels on but I missed the photo opportunity. Will have to catch it again.

Here are some random pics of Barrett over the last few weeks. He has been having a good time playing and making funny faces.

I had a little photo shoot with Barrett and Chuie the other day. That poor dog she puts up with so much from him. He actually bit her the other day, but I think it scared him more when she yelped. He started bawling, it was pretty funny. I feel bad for Chuie sometimes though, but I am very grateful we have such a patient and loving dog for Barrett to play with.

Catchin' Up

2008-08-03T09:40:00.003-06:00

These are from a few weeks ago... things have been so busy around here. I started teaching and have been a bit overwhelmed.

Bear and his girlfriend Brooklan in Donnelly a few weeks ago.

Oh yes, in all my glory. Yes, that is a maternity bathing suit; and yes, we are expecting. I am 11 weeks now and just starting to feel better.

Can't get this guy out of the lake... he loves the water.

Water Baby

2008-07-14T13:05:00.000-06:00

Little Barrett loves the water. He will even climb in with all of his clothes on...

This little vest was Kimball's when he was a boy. We found it when we were "cleaning." Luckily, it still fits Barrett... he is such a moose.

Guess who?!?!

And again in the water. I swear, he practically jumped in on top of me! We've got a little swimmer on our hands!

Seattle

2008-06-18T10:14:00.001-06:00

My friend Tiffany and I just went to Seattle to do a Mona Vie Tasting for my friend Cathy. We had a blast.
Here is a picture before we left of Bear and Kimball. Bear loves to read. He loves to have Daddy read to him. This is Cathy's little boy Ben. He is the happiest kid, always smiling.
Ben and Bear playing in the movies...
Me and Bear at the beach on Puget Sound.
Bear, cousin Jill, and I on the beach. So nice to get to see family and friends!
Here is Tiffany, Brooklan, Bear and I on the beach.

And of course, a mommy/daughter picture of Tiff and Brooklan!

These are some pictures from our very spendy Father's Day lunch at Salty's on Alki. Had we known it would cost us $50 per person we would have chose somewhere else to eat. Oh well, the food was good and the view was fantastic! And of course, the company was exceptionally wonderful : )

Happy Camper

2008-06-02T14:23:00.002-06:00

We just went camping this past weekend at Lucky Peak. Luckily, we had pretty decent weather. Here are some pictures in a slideshow from our trip and also a few from before we left. A couple pictures are below that I thought were extra cute!

Happy Guy!

Walking with Dad on the dock.

First roasted marshmallow ever!!! Yummy!

I am loving this camping stuff!

Oh, and I graduated. This is the only picture I have of me in my grad gear... I was so hot I took it off before I found Kimball!

Check it out!

2008-05-11T10:26:00.002-06:00

I have been super busy with my Mona Vie business! Check out my new Mona Vie website and my new Mona Vie blog!

Website: www.mymonavie.com/jennylowry

Blog: http://monaviechangeslives.blogspot.com/

There are also links off of this blog as well! Healthy living to all of you!

Haircut!

2008-05-03T18:05:00.002-06:00

I shaved Barrett's hair off today, much to Kimball's pleasure. I actually didn't mean to cut it this short, but once you get to close to the top of the head there is no turning back...

I think he is looking all grown up now, makes me kind of sad.... He went to the doc on Wed for his check-up: 30lbs 5 oz, and 34 inches. Off the charts! He is getting so big!!!

My mom bought him this shirt today; it seems appropriate considering we are going to a BBQ where lots of our friends' daughters will be.

By the way, did you notice the shiner? He did that in his crib today. Not sure how, although I suspect he tried to pull himself up and slipped.... boys, what can you do?

Well, I am in the home stretch on finishing up my Masters. Graduation is May 17th and I am so looking forward to May 14th when I turn in my last papers and am free!!! Guess I better get busy finishing up those papers I have been procrastinating about!
Oh, it looks like I am going to get published! I have some revisions to do after school is out, but it looks good! Will let you all know! I guess getting published is as good as having teaching experience, so hopefully that will help me get a job... we will see.

14 1/2 months

2008-04-14T18:31:00.000-06:00

Bear hanging with his buddy Owen.

Enjoying the spring weather and hanging out at the park with Mom.

I like slides!

Ooohhh, tunnels!

Some pictures from last month

2008-04-14T18:20:00.000-06:00

These are some pictures from Spring Break when we went up to the cabin. We got dumped on the day after these pictures; Kimball had a blast skiing in the fresh powder. Notice something different about Barrett? Yes, he got himself a little shiner. Fell over and hit his face on the table. But he is all better now!

Future Dentist?

2008-03-21T14:23:00.003-06:00

Barrett is obsessed with Chuie's teeth. Poor dog. I wonder if this means he will follow the family profession and become a dentist? Or maybe just a dog dentist?

We have to clean all of the pacifiers out from under Barrett's bed at least a couple times a week. I just did it this afternoon and this is what Bear decided to do with them...

But he couldn't decide which one to keep in his mouth!

Last night he was so funny. He kept putting his cup on his shoulder and every time I would put it on his tray he would put it right back. Guess its no longer a chip on the shoulder but a cup : )

Dirt Biker, Make-up Artist, and Little Scholar

2008-03-14T14:19:00.000-06:00

Barrett has developed several new personalities. He a little biker:

These are for you, Grandma Chooks!

A little makeup artist! Bear is absolutely obsessed with my makeup drawer. I can't bring him in the bathroom without him pulling out all my makeup and makeup brushes!

And, he is a little scholar. This is what he was doing under my desk while I was working on my thesis.... at least he was entertained, right?

Spring has Sprung

2008-03-11T14:33:00.003-06:00

It seems as if Spring has sprung and there is a sense of newness in the air... Okay, so maybe that is a bit much but I am a week away from completing my Portfolio and I am stoked! I am also probably in a bit of "unknowingness" right now too. Meaning that all 3 of my papers are in the hands of my committee right now awaiting comments and I don't know what they are going to say, so my mind can wander to the hope that they will only offer minor suggestions for revision!

Well, enough about me... Here are some recent pictures of my little guy. He is into everything including that little rubber thing that covers the door stopper!

Yes, that is what he is putting in his mouth in this picture. Luckily, he hands such things over rather quickly and without a fuss. When he grabs a hold of something he isn't suppose to have he ever so quickly stuffs it in his mouth. It is as if he knows he will be caught and just has to get a quick taste before it is out of his reach!

I just love pictures of Barrett in his birthday suit. And, he has the longest eyelashes ever!

Along with eating rubber door stoppers, Barrett really loves cookies. Especially Girl Scout cookies. He doesn't bother to take small bites and savor the cookies flavor for a few moments. Oh no, he stuffs the entire cookie in his mouth until his saliva begins to dissolve it into mush.

Cookie eating is also quite serious business, as you can see by these pictures.

We have certainly been enjoying the nice Spring weather, of course, we forget to bring the camera. But we have been out bike riding (we bought a new bike trailer for Bear) and Kimball and I went on a snowshoeing date! Next time we will bring the camera to capture these moments.

Walking on

2008-02-26T17:54:00.001-07:00

Well, this has definitely been a week of ups and downs. This was one of our ups... the boy loves to eat!

Unless he has the stomach flu, and then he doesn't want to do anything but lay on Chuie and take a nap. I came down with the old fashioned flu right after Barrett; luckily Kimball managed to escape our illness.

Barrett has started to walk! I am so excited cause he is soooo heavy! 28 lbs 3 oz at his 12 month check-up, of course, he lost near 2 lbs being sick... He was on a roll until the flu kicked in, but now he's up and running again.

Check out the videos below to see Bear in action!

Mona Vie

2008-02-11T18:17:00.000-07:00

I have to tell you about this amazing product that a friend of mine told me about. It is called Mona Vie. It is a juice blend made from 19 fruits; the main fruit being the acai berry. The juice is not only delicious, but it does amazing things for your body. I have been drinking it for about 2 weeks and I have noticed a dramatic increase in my energy levels and I am able to fally asleep and stay asleep at night. But the best part for me has been NO HEADACHES. As you know, I have suffered from migraines for years and years, but since I have started the juice I have not had a single headache. This is amazing for me; I was taking 4 advil and 4 tylenol minimum a day.
I am so impressed by this product that I have decided to tell everyone I know about it. If you are interested in trying it for yourself let me know.

Cupcakes and Carnivals

2008-02-07T11:27:00.000-07:00

We had to celebrate Barrett's actual birthday with some cupcakes... so yummy!

And a present from Mom and Dad too!

Last weekend we headed up to the cabin, boy was there a lot of snow!

We couldn't miss the Winter Carnival of course. We drug my parents and Barrett out into the freezing weather to look at the once beautiful ice sculptures that were now covered in new snow.

Here is our little family back at the cabin! Check out the snow drifts!!!

Happy First Birthday Barrett!

2008-01-29T11:24:00.000-07:00

Today is my little boy's first birthday... he is no longer a baby! I know I should be excited, but I am kind of sad that he is growing up so quickly.

Here are some pictures from his birthday party on Saturday (thanks to Jason for being the photographer!)

I just have to share the funny faces!

Eating cake.... I made carrot cake from scratch and it was soooo good!

Yummy, this tastes so good!

Thanks to everyone for coming to the party, it was a lot of fun.

Check out this link for more pictures.

SNOW DOG

2008-01-25T12:33:00.000-07:00

This video is hilarious. My dad sent it to me and I had to share. Maybe I can get Chuie to do something like this.

The Adventures of Barrett

2008-01-22T17:46:00.000-07:00

My mom and I took Barrett to the park the other day, he wasn't quite sure what to think of this ride.
He was a little happier when Grandma was close by.

I also took him to get another haircut, he wasn't quite sure what to think of that either. He did still still for pretty much the whole time though. The tongue is on his list of favorite things to do as well.

Now his favorite thing is Chuie, of course. Poor dog, Barrett climbs all over her and she just sits there. She does growl at him if he is starting to really bother her but he just thinks that is funny. When you ask him what Chuie says, he growls. I don't think her method is working, especially since she would never bite him.

The ups and downs of Eleven month Barrett

2008-01-10T16:06:00.000-07:00

I know this is mean but I think it is really funny to take pictures of Barrett when he is crying. He wasn't hurt or anything just mad cause he wanted out. And don't worry, I got himout right after this picture.

Kimball just played with him til he fell asleep, poor little guy.

We were experimenting wtih new hair do's. I think the binky makes the look, don't you?

Someone isn't camera shy!

HO, HO, HO!

2007-12-30T18:35:00.000-07:00

We hope you all had a very Merry Christmas! Here are a few pictures of Barrett over the holiday!

Hands up! - Bear has started crusing the walls; we can't keep him out of anything now!

I'm still not sure about this guy...

I am not digging into the presents, I don't know what you are talking about...

Check me out in my fancy digs and new car!
We all had a wonderful Christmas, it was so fun to watch Barrett open his presents, although he was much more interested in the wrappings - particularly the bows.

latest pictures

2007-12-19T12:07:00.000-07:00

Yes, I do like to dress my son in sweaters. This is another sweater I made a long time ago. I think it brings out the blue in his eyes.

I am so happy that I have some snacks! My mom is starving me! Can't you tell?!?

Cousin Bella, Aunt Jen, and Uncle Ben came by last night and Aunt Jen gave Barrett his first haircut. Doesn't he look handsome? He sat very still in his highchair for most of the haircut, then we had to bribe him with food to stay still so she could finish it.

And here he is eating his lunch. He has become quite the picky eater. His favorite foods are meat sticks, cheese, yogurt, and snacks. He also likes bananas and peaches, but is not so fond of the veggies right now. But I keep putting 'em on his tray hoping he'll eat them.

We hope everyone is geared up for Christmas, we are looking forward to celebrating Barrett's first. Will post some pictures of him playing with boxes after the holidays. Merry Christmas everyone!

Almost Done!

2007-12-16T09:45:00.000-07:00

If you are interested in seeing my final project for my Cultural Studies class, Click Here. I changed the format from a Blog to a Wiki. Just make sure you click on "Sidebar" on the right side of the page so you can navigate to the other pages. The page that comes up is the Introduction; there are two more sections to read. You can get the gist of the argument without viewing the videos as well.

I am so glad this semester is coming to an end! I have pretty much finished my papers for my Writing Center class, am just waiting for some feedback before I do my final revisions. I just have an at home final on Thursday and then I am done! YEAH! Four whole weeks to relax and play with Barrett. I am hoping next semester is a little easier - although it probably won't be "easier" just different. I am only taking one class, but I also have to do my final Portfolio (it is the equivalent of a thesis, but meant for people not going on to Doctorate degrees), which is a lot of work on its own. I will also be continuing my work in the Writing Center as well as doing a Writing Fellowship for a Basic Writing Composition course - I will work solely with that class as their writing tutor. Should be fun and I am looking forward to it! Am looking even more forward to May when I graduate!

Will post some new pictures of Bear this week. Maybe I can figure out how to upload some video that we took of him with our new camcorder.

10 months and getting into trouble!

2007-12-03T12:52:00.000-07:00

I think I have been in Blog blah... not because I don't want to blog but because I have been so swamped with school work. The semester doesn't end until the 20th for me and I am just exhausted. Going to school with a baby is very difficult, for anyone considering finishing school and having a baby, I recommend finishing school first. Not that I would ever trade Barrett or being a mom for school, it is just a lot easier to do the school thing without a baby to care for.

Well, enough of that, here are some pictures of Barrett fromt the last few weeks. If you look real close you can see his new teeth in some of these pics. (If you click on the picture and open it in a new window you may be able to zoom in).

Best friends

You can see his teeth in this one, but they had just popped out so they aren't too visible yet.

We had to put our Christmas tree in "jail' so Barrett and Chuie wouldn't get into it.

Barrett has pulled himself to a stand once. I think I was overly excited because he won't do it now, but he does love to stand up and walk around furniture. He takes off like he can walk without help when you hold his hands, it is kind of scary cause he will let go. You should hear how excited he gets, it is really cute. He so wants to be a big boy!

See, even "jail" can't keep me away fromt he tree. (Another good one to zoom in on to see his teeth).

I had to get him this Grinch toy at Hallmark, I think he likes it.

When I saw this picture I cracked up; it is one thing to get the dog looking funny, but look at the expression on Barrett's face.

JoAnn sent us home with the walker last week and Barrett is in seventh heaven. He absolutely loves that thing... of course, this has also led to him getting into my plants and the bookshelf. Look at the pile under the walker!

PLEASE HELP WITH PROJECT SURVEY

2007-11-21T14:43:00.000-07:00

I just posted 5 survey questions to the LEFT. If you could please answer them honestly it would really help me with my school project. Your answers are anonymous so please do be honest. The link to the video is HERE . I didn't want to put the video in since it is controversial. THANK YOU SO MUCH! Have a Happy Turkey Day!

ON THE LAST QUESTION: Does the video of Flavor of Love confirm or contradict your opinion of African-American women? YES = CONFIRM, NO = CONTRADICT.

I tried to change it but it won't let me.... THANKS!

Mariachi Man and other things

2007-11-13T19:07:00.000-07:00

I just thought this was a super cute picture. Barrett went to the doctor last week for his 9 month check, he is a very happy boy.

He weighed in at 25.8 lbs and he his 31 3/4 inches long. He is 97% for head and weight and off the charts in height.

Bear has starting sleeping face down on his hands, you can see the imprints on his face from his fingers - no, I am not beating him.

Barrett also really likes his snacks, he is very into feeding himself.

Here is a picture of Bear playing guitar with his Daddy. Maybe we have a little musician on our hands too!

By the way, as I mentioned in my post below, my cultural study is of a sexual nature. If you find this offensive, DO NOT look at it. I would appreciate Constructive Feedback as this is a school assignment in which I will be receiving a grade. I realize that some of you will find the videos offensive; however, you can read the text without looking at the videos if you are interested in helping me with the assignment, if not, that is fine too. Thanks.

Finally!

2007-11-10T09:24:00.000-07:00

Well, Barrett finally cut his first tooth. It only took him 9 months, 1 week, and 4 days, but it is finally here. We have yet to see the little bugger, but my Grandma babysat last night and pointed out that she felt something sharp in his mouth and that she thought he had cut a tooth; of course, we were totally clueless :) I felt in his mouth this morning and sure enough, there is a tooth there. He won't let me see it though, I guess he is keeping it to himself for now; but nonetheless, it is there!

Hopefully, he will show off those pearly whites soon so I can snap a picture of him, but until then we will just have to go with feeling it.

Last night we had a lovely dinner to celebrate Deana, JoAnn and I's birthdays this month. It was really fun... good to see everyone! And happy birthday to the ladies!

Happy Birthday to my best friend for over TWENTY years, Trina! Can't believe we have known each other that long. Love ya lots!

Flavor of Love Cultural Study

2007-11-09T14:38:00.001-07:00

Just in case anyone is interested in my school studies, here is my blog for cultural studies class on the Flavor of Love (click on the hypertext). I warn you that it is a bit sexual so I wouldn't view it with your kids. I would love some feedback, though (but please post to this blog, not the Flavor of Love one or you can email me). It is a work in progress. Not quite done yet... let me know what you think.

P.S. I have yet to figure out what this has to do with English composition - my professor says we are writing and I guess that is his justification.

Commando

2007-11-04T15:17:00.000-07:00

Barrett is quite good at commando crawling. He can get up on his knees, but he is much more efficient at the commando crawl. Now, he is wanting to stand up all the time too.

He loves Chuie. check out this video (just ignore the background noises).

Pumpkin Patch

2007-10-27T15:02:00.000-06:00

Barrett is trying to feed himself now - he makes quite the mess.

We went to the pumpkin patch today. I have to say I was a bit disappointed. I had expected this bountiful patch of pumpkins, but most of them were rotten.

I staged some pictures though, so I guess everything turned out okay. Will have to go earlier next year before they are all picked over.

Halloween Party

2007-10-24T14:35:00.000-06:00

Andrea had a Halloween party at her place last weekend... Barrett's first. Here is in one of his many disguises...

We thought Winnie the Pooh was an appropriate costume for a boy named Bear.

Grandpa and the babies...

Some of the cousins... we couldn't get them all together at one time.

This week in pictures

2007-10-12T17:50:00.000-06:00

Here are a few pictures from the last week or so...

My Grandma made these little moccasins for Bear and now that it is cold enough I just had to put them on him. We dressed him up to hang out with Owen, but of course by the time I picked him up he was in a new outfit cause he is such a messy eater.

Speaking of eating, someone really does not like to have his face cleaned. This is the "here comes the evil washcloth" face.

Kimball calls this the puffy sweater outfit. When I was pregnant I made this outfit for him. I think he looks pretty cute. Don't worry Dad, it won't fit him for long - I do have more handmade sweaters though ; )

By the way, the results of my poll are in... according to poll goers the dirll incident was Kimball's fault. But in all fairness, and to save my marriage, I think we were equally at fault. I am known to be accident prone and shoudl have paid more attention to my surroundings, however, Kimball did leave the drill in an awkward position. We are equally at fault. Babe, you happy now : )

Battle of the Drill - This is kind of gross

2007-10-05T12:11:00.000-06:00

We had a little emergency this morning... I got stabbed by a drill. That is my inner right leg. We had to make a little trip to Immediate Care for a tetanus shot and some horse pill antibiotics. Thanks Dad, for coming to my rescue, yet again... but this time it wasn't my fault : )

This is the culprit, see that drill bit? That whole thing went through my leg. I am completely numb under the wound and the top of the wound is already swollen and starting to bruise. It went in at an upward angle.

This is how Kimball left the drill in the kitchen. Now, who's fault is this? I would say Kimball's.

I was just cleaning up and turned around to be impaled (maybe that is a bit of an exagerration) with the drill. I actually didn't realize what had happened until I felt the blood on my foot. And man, there was a lot of blood. I am very grateful that my dad came and helped to clean up the mess before we went to the clinic... it was pretty gross. It looked like someone was murdered in my kitchen. I am just so grateful it was me and not Barrett... I hope Kimball has learned his lesson about putting his dangerous toys away.

Doc says I will be fine. Just have to ice my leg, take these huge pills and watch for infection. It pierced the muscle so my leg is going to be very, very sore. Not to mention my arm, where I got the tetanus shot. At least we have modern medicine :)

Change

2007-10-03T10:53:00.000-06:00

Bear's favorite place to hang out is under the coffee table. He especially enjoys this place when Chuie visits him. If I could just get a little closer...
so determined.
Well, I guess I will just chew on this book instead.
I love this picture! Notice the plant in the background? Well that is gone, someone likes to pull on the leaves... was tired of fighting with him about it.
I broke down and decided I needed a change. Actually, I was tired of Bear pulling my hair and I wanted something with a little less maintenance.
Here is my "before": (excuse the self portraits)

and my "after".

Kimball's reaction: "Well, it's short." Thanks Babe.

Who does Barrett look like?

2007-09-28T15:37:00.000-06:00

I saw this on another blog... and I copied... I know, I know. I couldn't help it. Like so many new parents, the question of who the baby looks like is rampant. As much as I would like to think Barrett gets all his good looks from me, I guess he looks more like Kimball. Most people would agree with this I think. Maybe the next one will look like me : )

Another good video

2007-09-28T11:23:00.000-06:00

Here is another great video on all the wonderful things mom's say in one day. I figured since my dad and sister in law Deana forwarded it on that it was worth aharing...

Bedtime Song

2007-09-28T08:19:00.001-06:00

My sister in law, Andrea, sent this to me via email. I thought it was great and had to share with everyone. It is kind of long, but well worth the listen.

Mama's Boy

2007-09-25T18:34:00.000-06:00

I put Bear in this little "Bear suit" the other day and just had to get some pictures cause he looked so cute! My mom got this for him on our Alaska trip and it is 18 Months!!! I can't believe it fits him already... should fit for awhile since he has some room to grow. This is Barrett's latest and greatest:
He is always sticking his tongue out, it is pretty funny. Kimball was trying to get a picture of him doing it and could only get these two before Bear decided he was done with that game. Of course, as soon as the camera went away out came the tongue.

Just to show you what a Mama's boy the little man is. He does say Dada, but Mama is his favorite word right now.