Tootsie and Squish

2009-03-14T16:24:00.001-07:00

The following was written on June 27, 2007. I'm deleting the "Bebe to Be" blog - as it's just too much to keep a separate blog for Katie and the boys. So - here's what I had written:

Well!! We found out on June 7th that we are expecting our 3rd bundle of joy!! Sometime around Feb 11th. We went and had bloodwork done - my progesterone was 12 - so the doctor put me on Prometrium. My betas looked great though! The 1st one was 347, the 2nd was 824! I wasn't sure of when I ovulated - so they did an ultrasound on the 19th - and got to see our tiny little pumpkin - and the heart just beating away! It's so exciting! I always love being pregnant - and I am so completely happy about this one. We told my mother at her 60th birthday party. My sisters and I gave her a charm bracelet with all the grandsons' monograms on small silver discs - and their birthdays are on the other side of each charm. We left the 6th one blank. It was very sweet. We told my father on Father's Day. We have yet to tell Jason's parents - we're waiting for Jeanette's birthday party around July 4th. So - then everyone will know!!!! So far, I feel ok - just really tired. And I can't eat Mexican - or a lot of cheese - or hot dogs. This baby LOVES fresh fruits and veggies - which is wonderful - better for me. And definately better for baby.I told my boss last Thursday - he seemed genuinely happy for me. So that was a relief. I really can't believe that I'm going to have another sweet baby!!!!!! I can't wait to find out what it is - I realllllly hope it's pink. But - I swear to the Good Lord Above - whatever God gives me - as long as it's healthy and happy - that's truly all that matters. If it's another boy- then I will proudly bear the theme song of My Three Sons - but I really want a girl. Just a sweet little girl. It would be really special to me.Anyway - I'll update more and post pics as I progress!YAY BABY!

2009-03-14T16:14:00.000-07:00

Yeah... apparently, I'm not so great with the blogging stuff - but I swear I'll get better!! Life with 3 kids is great - and very interesting. My 2 boys and my baby princess certainly keep me busy. Camp, who is now 4, is amazingly grown up. He doesn't miss a trick at all. He gets jokes, he's very perceptive regarding moods of others - and he wants to help. Always wants to help. He and Andy's song that I made up for the 2 of them goes "Camp a lamp is my Hero, camp a Lamp, is my champ. Andy Pandy he's so dandy, Andy Pandy, he's my man" - and oh how true it is of both of them. Camp is the helper, the enforcer of rules, the leader. Andy, who is now 3, is my snuggle bunny, my tender heart, my stubborn as all get-out kid. He takes his time doing anything you want him to - unless you make it a game. But - he loves to give kisses, he thinks he's hilarious, and loves his cars. He likes his Mama and Me time - which, unfortunately, I don't get that often with Pan... but I try. Katie is absolutely the princess. She's just really taken several steps in a row without falling today. I predict she'll be running in another 2 weeks. She's demanding and dramatic - but very confident in her cuteness and it's ability to get her just about anything she wants. She's not really talking - occasional Mama or Dada - or even "ba" for ball. But, that's really all. And that's ok. I'm not ready for her to grow up at all.
Today's been raining, so the kids have been making up games in their room or in the den. Camp recently declared the tent in their room to be off limits to katie - it's a no girls club. I had no idea that this started so early! Andy has declared, while grabbing his boy-parts, "My tushie is soooooo big". That starts too early, huh? And the other day - we were in the car and Mississippi Queen came on and Camp shouted "Rock it to the Roll". Andy also called the cartoon tom and Jerry- well, he calls it "Tom and Sherry". These kids crack me up! I love being home with them.. but I really do miss the working world too. One day at a time. They aren't little forever.

2008-08-16T09:27:00.000-07:00

And I forgot the latest bit of trivia in our world. So yesterday, I get a call from the Director of Parks and Recreation here in our small town - and he asks me if I can COACH soccer this fall. Umm.. I've never played, watched or cheered for soccer in my life. I told him this - but he sounded desperate - so what the hey. Now, I'm going to be Coach "T" to a bunch of 4 and 5 year olds! We're The Panthers and our color is teal. I have to email all of the parents today and let them know that what's going on with practices and such, games, etc. Thing is - I have no clue what to even do with these kids at the practices. I'm sure I'll figure it out. Should certainly be a fun challenge. Adventures of a real soccer mom.. I tell ya..

2008-08-15T20:03:00.000-07:00

WOW - has it really been so long. Funny - I've got pics of Jason's 30th b-day party in the mountains.. but I haven't put up the pics of the happy result! HAHAHA! Well - she's Katie and she's 6 months old. She weighs 22 pounds, 8 ounces (today) and is 27 inches tall! What a monkey!

I quit my job at my old company, thankfully. And now I'm pretty much home all the time with my babies. Which I love. I've been spending insane amounts of time at the pool with the kids and they are loving it!

Camp's changed SO much. He's definately all little boy. He's going to be playing soccer in the fall - and lucky me - I got drafted to COACH! I know nothing about soccer. Less than nothing - but I do know how to have fun - so it should be a great learning challenge for all of us. Here's a picture of a very happy Camp ready to play!

Yep - he's pretty jazzed. He's also just about the sweetest big boy in the universe. The other night, I was encouraging our new dog - Dot-Dog - to climb into bed with us as we watched the Olympics - and she landed on my face, by complete accident, cutting my lip wide open with her front claw. Camp was so worried, he went and got his favorite Bunny, Monkey, and Andy's stuffed kitty and brought them to me to sleep with so I'd feel better. Is he precious, or what?

Andy - wow - what a HUGE change in him too! He's jabbering up a storm, playing and is just the sweetest, most thoughtful, tender little boy ever. He loves to hug the dogs, and says Hi, How are you to just about everyone. He laughs a lot - loves to "Superman" into his bed. He also adores cars, trucks, trains, being loud, my shoes and carbs!!! He's my boy alright! He's definately dramatic at times and when he's been sent to clean up his mess - he'll hang his sweet, precious head and slump his shoulders and give this huuuuge sigh. It's hilarious! He constantly has me laughing. And he's so concerned for Katie too - if she's upset, he sings to her or will kiss her. Camp sings the "Katie-Bug" song when we're in the car and she's not happy. Bless her - she's not all that unhappy. I think it's such a rarity when she is that they get concerned. Here's an updated pic of Andy-Pandy!

And finally - my Katie Bug. I've already given you her stats. She's a pretty incredible baby. I do have to admit that I loooove having a girl! It's been great to dress her in all that pink. She's happy, chubby, loves to giggle. She reaches for toys and blowing raspberries is one of her newest tricks. We had her Christened this past Sunday. It was just the sweetest service ever. The minister, Rev. Chris Lollis, got the joy of having Katie as his very first baptism ever. How sweet is that! He got a little too much water on her though.. LOL! It's ok - she's good and covered for sure. Katie is just so bright and active. She doesn't like to take long naps though. But that's ok - she's so happy that I love spending time with her. Here's her pic form the christening:

Jason and I are doing fantastic. I think me not working has lowered my stress level so much, that I am a genuinely happier person. I mean, things are tight - but that's ok. I'm with my babies and I love it. I love him. He's been an amazing husband and father to all the kids. Katie has him completely wrapped. LOL!

Anyway - now that I can remember my login and password, I'll definately be updating more!

2007-06-03T13:41:00.000-07:00

Well... it was bound to happen. Camp got a bloody lip today - poor baby. He was happily running around in the front yard and tripped on a garden hose - and ouch... I felt horrible. But, much Mama love, and some ice seems to have done the trick.. Sad looking, isn't it?

On a lighter note - it's been a great weekend! We finally cracked open the watermelon I bought last week - boy - was THAT yummy! Both of the boys loved it! Drippy, sticky sweetness, that absolutely signifies summertime!!! It was overcast and raining (yay) most of the weekend - so we spent a lot of time inside playing. Camp has enjoyed vacuuming every square inch of the floor - fine by me! He also has been helping me cook - cinnamon rolls, scrambled eggs, macaroni and cheese... you name it - he's been by my side! Andy has been chatting a ton! He was hilarious in the grocery store - they had a small racecar blowup on top of the aisle - and he started screaming - "CAR!! CAR!!!!" - people around us laughed. HAHHAHAHA

I love weekends. I have such a great time playing with my little men. They are changing so incredibly fast - I wish that I could remember every blink and every breath forever.

2007-05-29T16:17:00.000-07:00

What a weekend!!! It was GREAT!!!!! We had such a great time hanging around town and the house - just enjoying being a family! A nice long, Memorial Day weekend - perfect!

Saturday was a lot of housework, laundry, etc.. not too much exciting during the day. J and I had a cook-out to go to Saturday night - so the boys Favorite Aunt Shay in the UNIVERSE and Mr. Moonpie came over to sit with them - and they had fun. :) I was out way too late that night - but that's my own fault. I don't regret it - I got to see a bunch of people I hadn't seen for ages - so that was fantastic!

Sunday, after church, D-Daddy came up - and Ford got to come over and have lunch with us! He is *so* cute - I adore him to pieces!!! Then, after Ford went home, we all piled into the car and headed out to Knights Stadium! The boys got to go to their very first ballgame - and considering how young they are - did incredibly well! We stayed about an hour and a half. Camp was so funny - he kept pointing at the field and saying "I like that Baseball game over there!" Andy REALLY enjoyed seeing Homer the Dragon. (or rather Homer's female counterpart- I can't think of her name right now). Anyway - as soon as she walked by - he LIT up!!!! She stuck her hand out and he just grinned and laughed. He reached out and touched her. Camp and I were walking around - but he say both of the Dragons later on and thought they were pretty neat! He's not real sure about them if they are near - but Andy loved them!!! Camp also cheered a bunch "go Knights!" - but he sure did say "I like that Baseball Game over there" a bunch.

After the game, we came home and played in the new sprinkler and in the pool.

Monday, ahhh.. we hung around in the morning and just did errands - grocery store, home depot - errands. The boys went down for a nap at noon - and I started in the yard! I should have taken a picture - but we have this massive flower bed running the width of the house - and I ripped up all the weeds, tore out all the old pinestraw, and then trimmed all the bushes. Then I put down 9 bags of mulch - and put up edging!!!! It took about 4 hours - but it was SO much fun. I was completely filthy - and loved every minute of it. Camp came out and helped my by watering the garden! He's so good!! Then - NaNa came over!!!! Both kiddoes were SO happy to see her! We played and splashed and screeched and laughed for 2 more hours in the back yard!

Aunt Shay and Mr. Moonpie came over at 5, and we had a delicious bbq! Ribs, grilled asparagus, grilled corn, baked home fries, lemon bars, and brownies! (they were YUMMY Shay!). It was a great day! I am sore and sunburned - but what a fantastic weekend.

2007-05-24T16:20:00.000-07:00

Silly boys!!!! Both of them woke up full of smiles and charm this morning. Camp was soooo cute. Shay came over last night and went out to have coffee, but not before she played with the boys a while! *they wouldn't have allowed her not to* - We're talking some SERIOUS adoration here. Anyway - I was in the kitchen this morning doing some 6 am dishes and I heard Camp trying to get out of his room. So, I met him in the hallway with a bright smile, and a "Good Morning Sunshine" - and he swept right by me, poked his little head out into the den, looked back up at me and said "Where Sharon at?" - noooo good morning to Mama - nope... it's all about the Shay! And I love it! I love that my sweet boys adore my friends. I love that they find joy in playing and sharing and everything - and I love the fact that they can just so completely open their little hearts up.. sweet sweet boys.
Andy must have been a hungry mungry this morning - he downed 2 pieces of cheesetoast and a big glass of milk. Tonight - he ate 2 hotdogs and carrots and pudding! Along with his milk .. I swear he's getting ready to go through another growth spurt.
Ahh.. I love it. Right now, they are in the bathroom taking their bath and splashing and playing - Camp is singing into a cup - Andy is just generally screeching. :) How happy that sounds!!!
I love these boys.

2007-05-20T18:39:00.000-07:00

HAPPY 30th Birthday Jason!!!!

Yep - my sweet hubby FINALLY turned 30 and we had a great weekend! The boys and I gave him a Wii gamesystem, the Wii Play game, and an extra Nunchuck controller - he was flooooored! On Saturday, his actual b-day, we drove to his hometown and took 2 little munchkins to get their haircuts. That was traumatic. It was my Aunt (their great-Aunt) who is a barber - so she's not a stranger. All I can say is this woman has the patience of a Saint. And they look fantastic!!! Then, we went out to lunch with J's parents. The boys downed a "healthy" meal of hotdogs and french fries (well.. it WAS a b-day lunch... I should stop feeling guilty). Then we headed back to their house for birthday cake and presents. After that - we put the kiddoes down for a nap, kissed them bye for the day - and J and I headed to the mountains! My sweet friend Amy let us use her cabin for the night - and it was SOOO much fun! We got there and immediately started "lounge-fest 2007" - I mean, shoes came off and snoring ensued. After we rested, we hooked up J's gamesystem and drank wine and played - he kicked my tail! (it was his b-day - of COURSE he was going to win) LOL! I made a fantastic lasagna dinner, we hung out in the hot-tub, then we came inside and proceeded to watch a Star Wars movie before finally crashing for the night. Hey - it might not sound like a thrill a minute to you - but believe me - that was his perfect b-day. This morning, we slept in until after 9 am!!! 4 hours later than we normally do!! We went to this great little greasy spoon for b-fast. It was yummy! Then we went back to the cabin and packed and cleaned - and headed back out. We stopped on our way back and went hiking. The flowers were gorgeous! Amy's yard is full of Mountain Laurel blooming- that's what the flower is in the picture. The waterfall was stunning - and I think J really enjoyed the hike. He loves the mountains. Truly loves the mountains - as much as I truly love the ocean... ahh - opposites attract, right? We're going to the beach in September. I can NOT wait!!

The boys had fun in church! Both of them went to the service and were their usual clowns. Apparently - every time there was a prayer there were a lot of "Amens" coming from those 2 monkeys. And they charmed and smiled to everyone. Andy ate a ton of Cheerios in the service - but reportedly toward the end, got tired of sitting still - so he had to go out in the hall with his Granddaddy. That's ok.. he is only 1 and a half. Camp was good as gold! Both these boys are so sweet! We had fun at J's parent's house this afternoon -Camp mowed the lawn with the bubble mower, Andy hit golf balls and slid on the slide. As soon as we left though, Andy was out! OUT! Camp stayed awake most of the drive home.

What a great b-day! I have to say - I have one heck of a hubbie. He's kind, and sweet, and incredibly patient. I am a lucky woman to have someone in my life that I completely adore - and I suspect, completely adores me as well.

Happy Birthday dearest - I love you very much.

2007-05-08T19:00:00.000-07:00

FINALLY!! I get to update. We've been without any access to the internet for a while- so I am so terribly sorry that I haven't updated!!! So much has changed! The boys are growing like weeds - as you can see. Andy is talking more and more every day. Today he added "Stir Fry Chicken" to his vocabulary. We were talking about what to make for dinner and it came out "lkdjsflksjdflsfjsf fry!".. :) He's a funny monkey. He's practically running every where he goes - and has developed quite a sense of what he wants. And he's CLIMBING on everything! I can't keep him out of chairs and off the coffee table! Camp never climbed like this - I tell you what - he's fearless! He's toppled off the couch a couple of times - but it doesn't deter him in the least. And he loves to laugh. Sometimes I'll blow my bangs on my face - and he will chuckle until he can't breathe. I love the sounds of his giggles. Little bubbles that float up and burst with smiles. He's getting more teeth too! 4 molars have finally finished breaking the surface and are in. He's a cuddle bug too - if he's watching tv - he wants to be in my lap, on the floor - thumb in mouth, his other thumb in his belly button. And if he's not watching tv - he's flipping though books and talking to them. This makes me happy - I want both my boys to read - and it does secretly thrill me when I see them so involved with a book.

Camp is growing up so fast! He chats constantly - and makes sense 99% of the time! It was so sweet - I went to go and pick him up from school and on the front of his classroom door the teachers have posted "I love my mother because..." and each child has his or her picture with the reason. Several kids said "She buys me toys" - one child said "Apples" - but MY darling, sweet, perfect child said "She is my friend". I teared up RIGHT then and there I tell ya. I should take a picture of that - it really is the sweetest thing in the universe. AND - today on the way home - he told me he loved me. That's my favorite - hearing that squeeky little voice say "I love you Mama". Awwwwwwwww. And what a help he is too! He loves to do the dishes (play in water), do the laundry (play in water), sweep (hit stuff with the broomstick), and clean off his plate (feed the dogs the leftovers). He's funny too! He thinks it's hilarious to say "forbidden things" right now - like stinky butt - that's a big no-no... he'll tryyyyy to start to say it and get as far as a "sttttt" before he looks at me all slyly and then cracks himself up! And - I just remembered - when I ask him what various animals say - Camp - what does a snake say? He does his arm all wiggly and goes - "Dun-nu-nuh-nuh nuh.." HAHAHAHAH!!!! I love this boy! And that's what he is - not my baby anymore - he's allll boy!

Well -now that I'm online - I'll be updating more!

Love,

Me!

2006-12-01T13:53:00.000-08:00

Drumroll please!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Mr Pandy took his 1st tenative steps in the world today - all by his big self! Yep - this morning, as we were all getting ready - he was playing with some Christmas beads - and he took 2 steps. I cried - but then quickly got my camera and got some video of him taking some more. My little bitty baby boy - starting to walk.. WAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!
Aunt Shay asked too - so here are some cutie patootie pics of their Halloween costumes.

2006-11-28T14:18:00.000-08:00

Hi there!!!
What a whirlwind month in the Reeves household! We had a lovely Thanksgiving. Went to my grandmother's house - and got to see my family - and of course, the boys got to play with their Na-Na! Always an adventure! My cousin had her puppy there - a sweet bassett named Lucy - and Camp had a ball playing with her! Too cute watching them run around after each other in Mimi's backyard! LOL! A dog his size! He didn't know what to do with himself.
I hit the malls at 3:30 am for Black Friday - got some good sales. Then we hung out at the house all day with the boys and were just us.
Saturday - we headed to Jason's hometown for his Grandmother's 90th birthday! His mother had organized a surprise reunion - so we had lots of folks we hadn't seen since our wedding. Which was great! The boys were very well behaved - and by the end of the night were just worn out. Andy was being Mr. Charming - and laughing with everyone. Camp had a great time playing fetch with the neighbor's dog - Maggie. We all ate too much, and socialized too much - but that's what you're supposed to do at these, right?
Camp got his GeoTrax from his Grammie in from his birthday. He loves it and carries his Choo Choo around everywhere. Heaven forbid Andy try to touch it! D-Daddy came up this past Sunday and Camp proudly showed off his new golfing skills - which pretty much involve just whacking the poor golf ball in whatever manner works.. We have to start somewhere. He's also realizing what Santa is. We were out to lunch the other day and there happened to be a bearded gentleman sitting at the next table. Camp stared - then quietly leaned over to Jason and pointed and whispered "Santa Claus" - tooooooo cute!
Andy has added "Uh-Oh" to his vocabulary. He now has 4 words - Mama, Dada, Bye Bye - and Uh Oh.. :) He loves the Uh-oh - he's into dropping everything over the edge. The edge of the table (food) the edge of his changing table (toys and socks), the edge of the bathtub - toys... He's soooo close to walking too. Just nooot quite there. I bet he will be by Christmas.
We put our tree up last night, and Jason and I plan on taking a day off work - which we both need desperately - and decorating. I'm a holiday freak - as anyone who knows me can tell you - and I'm really looking forward to dressing the house to the 9's.
Both boys go to the ENT tomorrow. Camp for his post-op appt from his Adnoid surgery - and Andy - well - to see about getting tubes in - bless his heart. He's having tough infections - they aren't wanting to clear up.. so looks like he's getting tubes as well.. sigh. He's also just gotten his eye-teeth in! And - I love it - he's got the same gap in his front teeth as I have! I think he may be dressing like David Letterman next Halloween. LOL!
That's about it for now!

2006-11-17T14:20:00.000-08:00

Well - poooor Andy Pandy. I took him to the doctor today for his 1 year visit! The good news - he weighs 25.3 pounds, and is 30 inches tall. His head measures 18! He's in great shape weight and height wise..
Now the bad news - poor Pandy's ear infection didn't clear up. This will now be the 2nd time he's had an ear infection that has required 2 antibiotics.. his 4th infection in 6 months. So - I've got an appt for him to go to the ENT next Wednesday for a consultation about tubes.. You'd think I would be used to this by now - but it scares me to death. He's also got a touch of bronchitis and a new tooth breaking through. And yet - despite all of this - this sweetheart continues to smile and laugh and play. I tell ya - I don't think I could be so stoic.
THEN - he had his shots. Breaks my heart to hear him cry like that. I hate it worse than anything... I know it's for his own good.. really! But man... his darling face looked incredibly wounded. I picked him up and just held him and rocked him for a long time. He finally subsided to a sniffle.
His hemoglobin tested wonderfully though - YAY!
I took him to his school - and they cooed and loved on him. And - we arrived at snack time - so he was very happy to sit and chomp on some cheerios.
Sigh - how much love can one person hold? I am afraid I will never know the answer to that.

2006-11-15T14:34:00.000-08:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY BOYS!!!!!!!
Camp turned 2 years old on the 6th - I simply can NOT believe it! We had originally scheduled to have his party on the 5th - but he started to run a fever - so we had to cancel it. It was SO cute too!!!! We just postponed the party until this past Saturday, November 11th- and had a combined shindig for both boys! It was fun. Not a lot of my friends showed up - but since the party was a last minute change - I can understand completely. My family was there to help us celebrate - and I think it turned out perfectly! Camp was a maniac - running everywhere and acting shy at times. What a sweetie!
ANDY turns 1 today! HAPPY 1st Birthday Lovebug!! I just cried this morning when he woke up - my sweet baby is not a baby anymore. We're cooking him dinner and his sweet Aunt Shay is coming for dinner - I can't wait! I am just astounded that he's one. Darling, precious boy.
To fill in everything else that has happened..
Camp had his Adnoids out last month and seems to be doing much better. He hasn't had a problem at all. He was hoarse for a few days afterward.. but generally bounced back very well. He went as a duck to Halloween. My LORD he was cute! I brought him to work - and everyone thought he was adorable - which he was! We had his cousin's birthday on the 29th- and both the boys went to that in costume. Andy was smooshy-cute in the bunny costume. He actually really didn't mind the bunny hat at all. Did well wearing it.
Then - the party for the boys! We had it on that Saturday. Much fun! I made 2 cakes - one the cat in the hat "hat" and the other was a darling yellow crown. We ate, played and then had cake. Our friends and family are so generous. The boys got some wonderful presents. Books! Matching outfits for Christmas from their Na-Na. A train. A racetrack. Camp got a new piggie bank from Aunt Shay.. REAL golf clubs from D-Daddy, some precious outfits. And this awesome Tent for Camp from his aunts - and Andy got this really cool Constellation turtle - that projects stars on his ceiling. LOVE it!
And now - Andy's actual birthday is today. I seriously can't believe it. Growing so incredibly fast, my boys.. and every day, my heart grows a little more filled with love for them.

2006-10-18T14:36:00.000-07:00

ANDY STOOD!!!!!!!!!! My littlest man turned 11 months old this past Sunday and he chose that day to stand ALL by himself!!! I can't believe it! He's done it a few times since then - but WOW!!!! I am astounded. Amazed - and sad.. my youngest is growing so fast! We also are slowly weaning him off the bottles and onto whole millk - so he's down to 2 bottles a day. Man - it's amazing how fast time flies - especially when you're having as much fun as I am with these two precious boys!
Camp went to the ENT today - he had his 2nd ear infection of the month diagnosed last week.. so off to Dr. Clive we went. I even made up a song for us to sing on the way to the office - "We're going to Dr. Clive, We're going to dr. Clive - he's going to check our ears and make sure that we are fine.." And of course, in the car - Camp was yelling "HEY DR. CLLLL" - couldn't quite get out the "live" part.. but oh well.. he did really well. Dr. C looked at him - he was excellent. And he even tossed Camp his football back and forth while he and I discussed our options. So - Camp will be having yet another ear surgery on Tuesday, Oct 24th... More tubes - and his adnoids are coming out. I am nervous as anything.. always scares me to death. I pray that my baby boy will be fine. Please God, let 3rd time be the charm - and make this the last time he has to have surgery for his poor ears. My little pumpkin.
After the appt - we went and picked up lunch, and met Jason. Then - back to daycare.
I love these boys... so much. I am constantly amazed at how perfect and awesome they are.

2006-10-11T09:38:00.000-07:00

Slack Mama strikes again! Ok - not so slack - but I lost my login to this site and they finally sent me the link.. so now we're up and running again! YAY!!!
The boys.. well, let me start with the oldest..
Camp is doing great! He had a slight ear infection last month - but seems to have recovered beautifully. He's doing so many new things. I think the most adorable new thing is when he's looking for someone or something - "Mama, Are yooooooooo?" (he leaves out the where). LOL!!! He's also jabbering up a storm. I can understand about 70% of what he says. He's been a great boy at school and they are continually telling me how sweet is - and how well he plays with everyone else. And he does. He's got a couple buddies in his class and they have a great time. He went and spent some time with Jason's parents at the end of Sept. He actually slept in a big boy bed and loved it! Good Camp! We took off 1 side of his crib and put in one of the safety rails. He's been doing fabulous. I think he likes the fact that he can get in and out of bed as he chooses. Makes all the world of difference to his little independant self. He also got to see his beloved Aunt Shay recently - and as always - flirted and acted coy. He's such a mess. I adore him. I can't believe that in a few short weeks, he'll be 2! I was working on his birthday party ideas - and I believe that I am going to make his birthday be a Cat in the Hat theme. As much as he loves to read - why not? He's been a big help around the house too. Starting to do much better about eating his dinner. I think he's going through a growth spurt - his appetite has greatly increased. I just love my little Doodlebug. (which he now says too!)
Andy is just changing with every breath. He also had an ear infection - and seems to have recoveded He goes to the doc for a recheck this Friday. He is just growing and growing. Crawling and cruising everywhere. We've started adding whole milk to his diet - which is his new favorite dinner time toy. He finds great pleasure in knocking it on to the floor with all the strength in his little arms. He's eating whatever we put in front of him. If he can pick it up and feed himself - then he's a happy clam! He's gotten a new toofer too - His top left finally broke through. That was a mess. Andy is always so happy - and for him to be Mr Grumpface is so completely out of character for him. But wowser - was he ever!!! Glad that stage didn't last long. His favorite time of the day still is bathtime. He and Camp will just splash and splash - soaking poor J. Andy also discovered that he has the ability to blow bubbles and made himself crack up the other day. He'd stick his face in - blow a bubble - then sat up and just laughed and lauged - which made Camp laugh. It's the best sound in the universe - the sound of children laughing like that.
Halloween should be fun! Andy will be going as the Bunny - Camp's costume from last year. And Camp is going be tortured one last time - he's going as a duck. Hey - I can only dress them this way for a very VERY short period of time.. I'm gonna do it!!!
Anyway - that's about it for the kiddoes. I miss them so much during the day.

2006-09-12T10:41:00.000-07:00

New days - new developments!!! I hate that I'm always writing about Andy all the time (well, I don't HATE it - I just feel guilty because I don't have a lot to say about both boys all the time).
ANYWAY - Andy's just changing so fast right now - He's crawling at the speed of lightening. Pulling up on everything and even doing some cruising. He's officially said Mama!!! He did say Dada last week on the 8th - but poor J wasn't around to hear it. He's clapping now too. And he thinks that is a great deal of fun! He's also learned to shake his head no. LOL! So sweet. I love his little personality. He's eating anything we put on his plate - which is great - we thought for a while we'd have a tougher time switching him over to solids.
Camp is "Mr. Splashy". His new favorite activity is creating the biggest waves possible while in the tub - he takes great joy in his ability to soak his poor father. Who am I kidding? Jason loves every minute of it. He's also just recently added" What's that?" to his vocabulary and will point at anything and everything and get us to tell him what it is. It's great! He was puzzled by a kangaroo the other day - so cute. I can just tell we're not all that far off from the "Why?" phase. He's also started going "mmmmmmm" anytime he takes a bite of something he likes for dinner. Which, as the head chef, I can appreciate.
Andy has his 9 month (way late) checkup tomorrow. He has a cough - so I hope it's just this nagging cold that has besieged our family and nothing more serious.. I can't wait to get his stats!

2006-09-07T02:23:00.000-07:00

Hee Hee- my boys are funny!!!! We had a really great Labor Day weekend. Did not do a whole heck of a lot other than just hang out as a family. Took them out to play, went and did some shopping. Lots of fun! Monday, Camp and I were in the front yard kicking a ball - and Andy was content to sit in the grass and watch - but I thought I would try to see if he wanted to crawl and play as well! So - I walked over and put him on his belly - and then the laughing ensued. He was on his belly - arms and legs sticking straight out. He would not put them down for anything. Just kinda looked lost. Definately has zero affection for grass! After a couple minutes, whimpering started, so I had to go and rescue him from the evil blades and put him back in the sitting position. Too cute. My monkey - hates the grass. HAHAHAHAHAHA.
Camp got a nice bruise on his head from bumping into something - we have yet to figure out what exactly.
I decided to change up my look over the weekend - went on Saturday and got it all chopped off. Then, Sunday morning - I used a temporary dye (the kind that says it will last through 28 washes) to see how I felt about being red again. It came out AWFUL. The parts that were red were quite lovely - but it was the big patches of blonde that made me look like I had some weird hair disorder. And, to make matters worse - I had to attend the church nursery, and there was no time to go back to the store to get something else to fix it. So, I decided that if anyone asked at church - I'd tell them I was doing a play. But - no one asked. Did get some strange looks - but hey, that's alright. Immediately after church - I headed straight to the store and got a permanent color - and I love it! It's sassy! I needed a little spicing up - so why not?
:)

2006-08-30T04:50:00.000-07:00

Yep - Andy is a crawling machine. I came into work early this morning to get caught up on some stuff - J just called. He said that he put Andy down in the den while he went and started breakfast for the boys - and he turns around and the next thing he knows - there are Camp and Andy in the kitchen. It has begun. LOL!
Camp was adorable last night. He had a serious case of the giggles - and was just laughing so hard in the tub. At one point, I was popping my head around the door playing peek-a-boo with he and Andy - Camp pulls the shower curtain in front of him, hides behind it and yells "PEEK BOO". What a cutie. He calls it Peek Boo. Cracks me up.
Ahh, my boys. I hope they have a wonderful day. I can't wait to go and get them tonight - hug their little selves tight.

2006-08-28T09:38:00.000-07:00

It was a nice weekend! On Saturday, we decided to take the boys to Ebenezer Park for a picnic. Met our friend Amy with her daughter, Grace - who is just the sweetest little girl. She and the boys played and fed the ducks and kicked balls around. At one point, I was on the swings with Camp and Grace wanted to swing too - so I had Grace on one leg, Camp on the other and we were all swinging away. Loved it. I laughed and told Jason - " See - we could handle another one." To which he replied, "later dear". I'll win one of these days. It was a lot of fun. The kids passed out when we got home - go figure.
Later, that afternoon Camp did the sweetest thing in the entire world - made me cry. I was holding Andy on my lap and Camp was dragging out toys from his room and making a pile in the middle of the den floor - he got done and came over and said, "Andy Play?" awww.. I asked "Do you want Andy to come play with you?" He nodded then reached out his chubby arms and tried to pick up his brother. SOOOO sweet. He carried Andy's top and I carried Andy's bottom. Both of them cracking up the entire way to the toy pile - then they just sat and played with each other for the longest time.
Later, Jason mowed the lawn - Camp was fascinated. At one point, J was out in the front yard. Camp put his lawnmower on the couch and proceeded to "mow" it while he watched Jason out the front window. Back and forth, back and forth. I was dying!!!!!
Sunday, we lazed around the house. Played, ate, read and played some more. I met my friend Dana for afternoon coffee and we had a great chat. I have missed hanging out with her.
Well, that's about all. Will update again soon.

2006-08-25T09:31:00.000-07:00

Big news around the household!!!!!!! Andy Pandy crawled for the 1st time yesterday. I went to pick him up from his class - and I sat on the floor and reached my hands out and he took 3 little crawls forward to reach me. The teachers were estatic! They said they had been trying to get him to do that all day! Way to go Andy! Then - this morning - he was standing up holding my fingers and the little man took some steps forward. I can't believe he's already starting to "cruise". My bets are that he'll walk before he crawls. He's growing just so fast.
Camp thought it was thoroughly cool. He was so sweet this morning. Woke up in a fantastic mood. Always great for 1st thing in the morning. Andy was fussing in the den while I was in the kitchen fixing their bags - and I said to him - Camp, go give your brother a hug - and he did. Went straight in there, gave Andy a huge hug and then turned around and smiled at me brilliantly. It was a very proud moment, I have to say. Then - as we were getting him in the car to go to school - he spotted the neighbors lawnmower and wanted to play with it so badly. Silly boy. Luckily - in his class, they have this new tumble-mat with a ramp and everything. He went straight in and hopped right on it and started playing with all the other kids. He's so smart. He has this wonderful ability to figure out mechanical stuff - floors me how fast he "gets" things.
Ahhh.. I love it. My boys - my sweet sweet boys. No matter what is going on in the day that is just weird - one look at them and all is right with the world.

2006-08-23T11:10:00.000-07:00

Poooooor Andy Pandy. Little man has been so sick with an ear infection. He started running a fever this past Sunday, Monday - woke up with 102.5 temperature. Jason and I split the day, so I took him to the doctor in the afternoon. Sure enough - ear infection. Poor monkey. He's one of those babies that doesn't really act sick until they are feeling completely horrible - so he was still in a fairly good mood. Then, Monday night - his temperature spiked to 103.6! I lost it! Gave him motrin, a bath and he crashed - but tossed and turned all night long. Woke up again yesterday morning with 102.5. He was really fussy yesterday morning and didn't want to be out of Jason's arms. We put some eardrops in and he started feeling better. By the time I got home at lunch, he was laughing and playing - still not eating well, but he seemed a lot better. No more fever too. He slept like a log last night and woke up feeling much better today. Thank heavens. There is nothing harder than having your sweet child feel awful. And it just breaks my heart when I have to give him medicine and he looks at me with tear filled big blue eyes and wonders why I am doing that to him. Kills me. I just checked on him - and he's fine and dandy. Eating and playing. Sweet angel.
Camp has been a dream through all of it. He's so worried about Andy when he cries - just says "Andy crying?" and goes and hugs him - or gives him a toy - or tries to make him laugh. I love how he genuinely cares about the wellbeing of all of us. The cutest thing he does - is anytime anyone sneezes - he now says "Bless you" and smiles so sweetly. Ahh.. my darling son. He can be so trying with his little exercises in independence - but his true nature always shines through and I love him for it.
I'm just glad the house seems to be back on the mend.

2006-08-17T03:03:00.000-07:00

Happy Thursday!
No particular reason for that - just wanted to say Happy Thursday. The boys are doing so well. Camp had a bit of a cold over the weekend - but he's so sweet and wonderful. I just can't get enough of him. He's so funny. He absolutely LOVES being outside. Last weekend, we all went to work in the backyard - and he helped me rake and played on his toys. Then, I sat down to start pulling weeds out of the flower bed - and he came and just started helping. At one point, he had a weed in his hand and pulled so hard, he fell backwards! LOL! We both just cracked up.
He's recently gotten into the "Mine" phase of toddlerhood. Fuuuuun. It's just a phase - and this to shall pass one day. But for now - we're just going to try to keep teaching him about sharing and just because he can't have his brother's sippy cup when he's got 2 of his own already does not mean the end of the universe. My friend Deb brought over a wooden rocking horse. He loves it!! He pats it, pokes it's eyes and climbs on and off pretty regularly. He's also talking more and more each day. One of my favorite things Camp says is "Bless you" anytime anyone sneezes. So sweet. And he loves The Itsy Bitsy Spider - but he calls it "Up Down", and does the hand motions. Or at least tries to. It's so hard for me to believe that he's going to be 2 in November. Not all that far away. My sweet boy. Getting so big.
Andy is also growing by leaps and bounds. His 2nd toothy has broken through on the bottom. He's also starting to eat more solids - thank heavens. He had mac 'n cheese over the weekend and really liked it. This week he's added yogurt, a raisin, a potato chip (thank you camp for sharing), milk, green peas, carrots, and pears to his diet. Along with his usual puffs and cheerios. I need to do better about exposing him to more stuff. He's also getting the hang of the sippy cup and is starting to drink water at his dinner. Which is great! If I can break him of the bottle by 11 months, that will be fantastic.
Andy is pulling up on everything. Still no crawling yet - but he's soooooo close. He can get onto all 4's - then he rocks back and forth a bit - and slings his bottom way back and sits up. It's his version of scooting on the floor. He's got the backward movement down. Now - we just need to get him going forward. He loves bathtime too. He and Camp will just play and play.
I'm so grateful to be a Mama. A good friend is just starting down her fertility treatment journey, and I pray and pray that God blesses her with the joys that I have in my boys. The pure, unimaginable joy is amazing. Plus - I know she and her husband are going to be fantastic parents. As you read this - say a quick prayer for her.

2006-08-02T04:16:00.000-07:00

It's been a while, so I thought I'd check in and let you know all that's been happening with the 2 cutest boys in the universe. And they are! Nooo - I'm not biased!
Well - we moved to our new house on July 10th. I was in Washington the day the boys came home from spending the weekend with Grammie and Granddaddy - but J said that Camp was so funny. It took him a minute to warm up, but then he recognized the furniture and was fine from then on. Andy broke his 1st tooth on July 12th! It's SO cute. Just the smallest sliver of a tooth poking through. I checked him last night - and it looks as if his 2nd tooth - the bottom right, will be coming through any day now. What a trooper.
Camp is a little parrot! He's talking more and more. It was so funny - the other morning, I was washing dishes while the boys ate breakfast and Camp yells "MAMA!" I look at him - he points to the chair - and says *very* sternly "Mama sit!" Well now - alrighty - so I quit washing the dishes and went and sat by my precious boy. He was happy after that. LOL!
We got him his first "Bag o'Dinosaurs" recently - boy- does he love those! "Dinos" have even had to come in the bath with him. I have a sneaking feeling that a Dinosaur theme might be his 2nd birthday. At least I found some cute cakes for that! It's either going to be this or bicycles- which he calls "Bye Sybils". He's the heart of his classroom at school. Poor munchkin got bitten by another kid for the 1st time last week. The teacher called and her 1st words were "Camp's ok". Well, if that isn't enough to make any heart drop! He and another child were wrestling - and yep - he got bitten on the face by his right ear. Looked like he had a permanent kiss mark on his face. The teacher said he was fine - cried for 2.3 seconds and then forgot about it. That's my sweet boy!
We had my father's 60th birthday party this past Sunday - Camp was very excited to see "D-Daddy" and sat in his lap most of the time. Even helped D-Daddy blow out his candles. :) He and Andy made plates for Na-Na and D-Daddy to have with their handprints. He adores his Na-Na - and just wanted to hug her. She makes him laugh and smile - and that always makes my heart sing.
Andy has had a busy month too! He's (this) close to crawling - but still hasn't managed to kick one of his legs out from behind him. I have a feeling that in his new class - he'll learn quickly. But - what he HAS learned to do is to pull up! This happened last week! He's adorable while he's doing so - because he just gets this rumbly laugh going the entire time he's standing! Once he's completely upright - he just chuckles and smiles. Precious lamb. Oh - and he had a goldfish cracker over the weekend!! And last night - I gave him a sippy cup to start introducing that idea - he "sorta" got it - but not really - to him it represented another giant chew toy.
We've offically taken out the bath seat - which is cute to see 2 little bare bottoms playing in the tub. Camp has also started showing more interest in the loo - I won't go into details, but you get the idea.
We had a wonderful playdate this past weekend. Our 1st one. My friend Amy brought over her beautiful daughter and she played with the boys! I thought they did so well - and little Grace with her amazing smile. Man - I ache for a little girl. One day - maybe. Grace liked to play with the house toy - and laughed and smiled. We gave Camp and Grace mac-n-cheese and hotdogs for lunch - they devoured it! It was Grace's 1st hotdog experience. She did wonderfully.
I'm so thankful for everything I've got. I admit - this last couple of months haven't been easy and I've been down in the dumps. But every single day, I gather my boys into my arms and thank God for them. No matter what happens during the day - the moment I walk into Camp's class and he yells "Mama!" and runs to me with his arms thrown up - it all disappears.
It's funny - I talk to people who never wanted kids and who have them now - and its amazing how much perspective changes. My older sister wasn't sure she wanted children - but she is a natural Mama - and her son is so wonderful. And she's just great at it. My younger sister is also a brilliant Mama - so we're all lucky and blessed. I can't imagine my life without my two children - nor would I want to.

2006-07-03T07:43:00.000-07:00

HAPPY 3rd Of July!!! Well - tomorrow is the 4th - and the boys' daycare has an annual parade - so we got to go this year and walk them both around and take TONS of pics. Camp was so funny - he waved and cheered and said "WOAH!" a whole bunch. Andy just hung out and enjoyed watching the procession. Camp's class made t-shirts for all of them - and they even made one for Andy! Matching shirts for my boys. So sweet.
We had a bit of sadness over the weekend. One of my best friends lost her father yesterday morning. I loved him very much and considered him a surrogate father to me - it is a great sadness and a huge loss for everyone that knew Gene. I hate that while my boys met him - they never got to know him and love him like I did. I spent a good deal of the weekend with the family at the hospital. I know he's no longer suffering or in pain, and that brings some small amount of comfort - but I hate more than anything to see my friends suffer and be sad. Watching the family go through something like this makes me grateful and terrified at the same time. I can't imagine being a mother and outliving my children. I can't imagine being a wife and losing my soulmate. I can't imagine. It hurts. But mostly, I wish there was something more I could do to ease the heartache that my friends are feeling. And I can't. It's something everyone has to go through, and it makes an outsider such as myself feel utterly useless. I'll write more about it some other time.
And back to the happier notes. We're moving next weekend. I'm SO excited!!! The house is tiny - but it's got a darling little fenced in backyard, in a wonderful neighborhood - so I'm looking forward to it. I just dread the actual moving and packing and unpacking. Ugh. Oh - we also took the boys outside and let them play in the kiddie pool on Saturday - so fun. It was Andy's first time in the backyard pool. He wasn't really sure at first, but after he got comfy to the water temperature, he played and played. Camp was utterly fascinated by the hose and watered everything, including his brother. :) I had to laugh. He got me pretty wet too.
Well, I suppose that's a sorta update - Happy 4th! God Bless America - and God Bless the Landrum Family.

2006-06-25T16:47:00.000-07:00

Ok... so I'm am completely slack. I realize it has almost been a MONTH since I have written a thing.. I am so bad! Well.. I suppose I should update all the happenings in the boys worlds.
Camp is great! He was mister "NO NAP!" today though. I can't believe in a couple weeks' time he'll be 20 months old. SOOOOO unreal. He broke 2 more teeth this week. And, when he went in for his 19 month check-up, he also had an ear infection. His doc said that his tubes had also fallen out. Poor kiddo. I hope this doesn't mean another long winter of massive ear infections - he needs a break already. But - he's been just a great boy lately. Tonight, after he finished his dinner of chicken & rice, green beans and cucumber (a new item he's discovered he likes) - he was saying "Nite nite din", ( goodnight dinner), Nite dogs, and then, totally unprompted - he walks into the den and says "Nite Mawnmower" KILLLLLLS me! I just laughed and laughed. He absolutely loves his lawnmower, and any motorcycle that comes through the neighborhood - and water hoses. :) What a sweetheart. He's also been much more interactive with Andy - bringing him all sorts of toys to play with. I think it makes a difference that Andy can sit up totally on his own and thinks that Camp is hilarious. Camp goes over and gives him a huge hug and a kiss - and of course, my heart gets bigger with love for them both at every moment. Oh - and Camp was 32 inches tall and weighed 28.4 pounds at his checkup.
Andy is also doing very well. As previously mentioned - he is sitting up beautifully! He is eating level 3 foods and occassionally, I'll sneak in a bit of a Cheerio or a Veggie Puff for him to munch on for a while. He doesn't seem to mind all that much. He was HUGE at his 7 months! He now weighs 23 pounds. This is a big boy - but so completely happy. He loves to laugh. Tonight, while he was eating dinner, I was singing and he was swaying right along, just laughing and smiling. He's a great baby. Very easy-going nature. And he has the best smile in the universe. He's also getting better about keeping his legs stiffer when we stand him up. Oh - and if he's excited about something he sees - he bobs up and down frantically. And - he's making a ton of noises. Still nothing like dada or mama - but the raspberries, the coos, the screecehs - all of it - music to my soul. Right now - I'm listening to Camp and Andy play in the bathtub - and Andy is just laughing at something Camp is doing. I can't wait until they are able to play together.
I'm really also excited about moving. As much as I'm going to love this big house, I'm actually really excited about the move. I dunno.. I know the boys are going to absolutely love the fenced in yard - but so many things are going to have to change - and it's scary, I admit - but at the same time.. I've been in the same space for so long - that maybe a little shaking up is exactly what I need in my life. Anyway - we close on the 27th of July - so I've got a ton of packing to get done. I'll post pics soon.

2006-05-29T17:30:00.000-07:00

Happy Memorial Day! WOW - was it busy today.. ok.. not really. I slept in late (YAY!) and the boys had a bunch of fun with Dada this morning playing. We hung around the house most of the day. Camp got a new "Mawnmower" yesterday since his other one broke. And - he will not put it down. It has a bubble maker AND makes super-cool mowing sounds. It's his new favorite. Who can blame him? All I can say - that in about 15 years when he's trying to back out of mowing the yard - I now have evidence that he once LOVED to mow.. and will use it appropriately. We took an afternoon trip to Winthrop Lake to hang out and just be outside for a while. Camp brought his "mawnmower" and of course, proceed to mow as much grass as he could. And tonight - we grilled hamburgers and a hotdog - and corn. Camp ate corn off the cob for the 1st time tonight. He thought he was hot stuff too - he'd take a bite, then just laugh and laugh. He loved it - at all his "dotdog" and most of his corn that I had already cut off the cob - and then some of the corn still on the cob. He's so funny. I think it must be one of those phases - some nights he'll eat like crazy - other nights, he just doesn't want to do anything but pick - and it could have been the same thing he had devoured the week before. He was good last night about eating a new crockpot chicken recipe - he wasn't sure at 1st, but ended up eating it all. For some reason - he just does not like to eat when Jason and Andy are in the kitchen. But, once J takes Andy upstairs and he's got Mama all to himself - he chows down. Go figure.
Andy chilled with me on a blanket and laughed at the dog near us jumping in the water, his brother mowing, and his Dada making goofy faces at him. Andy pretty much laughs at anything. He's silly and so sweet. Once again, he brought out his big appetite for lunch. Had 2 jars of food at lunch (prunes and mango - what a combo) - and had quite a few bottles today. He goes back for his ear recheck on Wednesday. He's been acting fine - so I'm pretty sure he'll get a clean bill of health. He's making all kinds of very loud screechy sounds. Half the time, if I'm upstairs changing out the laundry, and I hear one of those - I fly down to see what's wrong - usually - he's screeching at a toy on his exersaucer. Never fails to make me run though. I guess after he's been doing it longer, I'll get used to it - but since it's new - man... makes my heart thud. He's also learning to pick up small objects. I put a couple Veggie Puffs on his tray yesterday - and he can rake them up and then get them between his forefinger and his thumb - he's even managed to get one into his mouth on his own! wasn't sure what to make of it when he did - but he'll get there eventually. We're also trying to inspire him to want to crawl. He does excellently with Tummy Time - and is really pushing himself up on his forearms - and started to kick his back feet - I predict in a month, he'll be really really close to crawling, if not already. God save the Queen (me). I'm going to be one busy woman once that starts. 2 to run after. sheesh.
I went over to my sweet friend Amy's last night and just hung out on her porch and drank way too much wine as we chatted until about 11. It was great to just hang out and be and go over stuff that's going on in my world and get some good feedback.. I'm lucky that I have really good friends in my life. Really. I wish they all knew how special and loved they are... so - LOVE YOU!

2006-05-27T13:27:00.000-07:00

Well - as you can see - Andy Pandy had his 6 month portraits done today! Someone had given us a gift for the portrait studio when he was born - so we figured it was a great time! I put Camp's 6 month picture up as well. I feel so bad that I didn't have this online blog when Camp was a baby - so I think I'll highlight some of his big moments from his 1st year as I can.

Anyway - Andy is a star! He just laughed and laughed and flirted like crazy with the photographer. She loved the angelic one of him in his baptism gown - that she asked if she could submit it for one of the Walmart ad pics. Sure, why not - then everyone can see how beautiful my baby boy is.

Poor Camp has refused to nap today - so he's TIRED - but I think his teethies are just bothering him too much, despite the Motrin... sweet boy. He was excellent, as usual, in the store - And his beautiful blue eyes always attract comments and smiles. He's so funny because he will act as if he is the coyest boy on earth - but man, if you get to know him - you'd learn differently.

I had a good time with them. I love being out and about with them. They really are just sweet and wonderful and I love them to pieces.

2006-05-26T21:03:00.000-07:00

The boys are doing well today. Camp has yet ANOTHER tooth coming in - poor baby. I know they have to hurt like crazy. Ugh.. I'll be happy when he's done with that for a while. He's still a sweetheart though - I'm madly in love with both my little men.
Andy is doing great! His hair is coming is so well - and it's sooooo incredibly soft and fine. I just love to pat his sweet head. He's aparently started with the separation anxiety early - if I leave the room - he is an unhappy boy.. sniff.. breaks my heart - but hey, I have to work, I have to clean the house - I have to do laundry.. LOL!
On a personal note - I'm more than likely not going to leave this comment up long, maybe just the weekend, then I'll be a chicken and take it down.. but on a personal note - i am not well. My poor family is having a hard time (though don't tell the kids) and well - I'm really really depressed about the whole situation. We're having to move - which means finding new homes for my beloved dogs, leaving my wonderful house, and upheaving my entire life.. but I couldn't keep up with the illusion, so in misery, we have to give in. I'm not at all happy. There hasn't been a night where I haven't cried myself to sleep and woken up sobbing in the last 2 months. I'm beside myself. But - short of a miracle - we just can't continue. So - we're looking for a rental. I found a possible right down the street from my sister. It's very small - but, on our budget, what can we do, right? I'm trying to convince myself that I am not the worst mother in the world, and the worthless human being I believe that I am - but it's hard. Really hard. And I am dealing with some old demons now. I just wish someone could make it all better.. but that's not going to happen. I get the feeling sometimes that the world would just be better off without me - but then I look at my kids, and I think about what they would grow up with. So, I smile, I laugh, I fake that absolutely nothing serious is the matter - when in truth, I'm falling apart completely. I hate this. I hate everything about it.

2006-05-23T17:37:00.000-07:00

Camp KILLS me!! He's just now getting to the phase where he's trying to assert his independence, and expresses when he's displeased because he's not getting his way. I about DIED laughing yesterday morning because we wouldn't let him take his vacuum cleaner (our REAL Electrolux) with him to daycare. He just thought that was the end of the universe, let me tell you!! LOL!! KILLS ME! He's also into saying this "mama, dada, andy" over and over again - at varying intervals of holding the sounds.. so Mama may be mama, maaaaaama, mamaaaaa. It's awfully cute, let me tell you. He picks up new words left and right too. Elbow is another new one today.
Andy is still chubby - but what else is new. He loves his tongue recently - he's sticking it out at every opportunity! Today - he ate like a fiend too. He had 2 jars of food for lunch today at daycare! 2 jars in one sitting! No wonder he's my chubby monkey! He's also discovered his hands and thinks it quite fascinating to stare at them while he's taking his bottles. Also, very cute.

2006-05-21T19:01:00.000-07:00

Well!!! Andy got baptized today! It was a really important day in his little life. And I was so glad that Dr. Tim got to perform the baptism - he's leaving next month to work in Columbia - and even though we haven't known him all that long - he has been very special in our lives. He also baptized Camp in that same outfit a year ago... awwwwww.. Andy did very well, and was gorgeous as always. Except when Dr. Tim was holding him to actually perform his baptism - Andy stole the foam covering off of Tim's microphone and tried to eat it. LOL!

My parents, J's parent's, Grammie, Aunt Gail and Uncle Bill, and Beth were all at the church. Aunt Shay and MP, and dear Jermaine came to the house afterwards. We had a nice lunch and hung out with everyone. Camp had a ball!! He LOVES to have people to play with. He was so sweet during church - just sat wide eyed and sweet. He is just a doll. Love him to pieces. He did have a bit of an accident though - he was running in our kitchen and smacked the floor with his face and got a bloody nose - poor boy. I felt just awful for him. He howled - but we got it all cleaned up and he was ok. Then they took a nap, and afterwards, we went to do a little grocery shopping.

Jason's birthday was this past Friday - the boys and I got him some cards, and a couple of his crossword books that he wanted - and his mom got him some shirts, which he needed. And I had a birthday cake for him today at the party. So that was nice. I can't believe he's 29 FINALLY - his last year in his 20's. Gonna have to plan something huge for him next year! I can't wait!!!

2006-05-19T18:41:00.000-07:00

Andy had his 6 month check-up today! He weighs 21 pounds, 14 ounces, is 27.5 inches long - and his head measures 17.5... he's getting SO big! He had 3 shots - and did ok with them. I hate when they have to through stuff like that.. good thing he'll never remember it. I just can't believe how fast he is growing.
Camp had his last day in his pre-toddler1 class today. They are sad to see him leave - but a lot of his friends - one in particular - Gabe - is in his new class - so he'll do great. He's so funny. He absolutely loves being outside. He even says "out-shide".. LOL!

2006-05-17T16:48:00.000-07:00

OK - so my boys are just cute today. Andy is doing MUCH better this afternoon. He had a great day at "school" as well - so I know that the medicine is working. YAY! He tried 2 new things at dinner tonight - the Ham - which he did NOT like and prunes - which he did. I was hesitant to give him too many of the latter - so he ate about half of his jar. The pic is of him looking an awful like Oliver Hardy (Laurel and Hardy). It made me laugh- so I thought I'd share.

Camp had a GREAT day at school. He will be moving to his new classroom on Monday - so he's been spending quite a bit of time there during the day. His daily reports are so cute. They have a smily face, a neutral face, and a frowny face by each item - such as, "I shared. I napped. I kept my hands to myself. I used nice words" LOL! He got all smileys! YAAY! So sweet. He was full of spit and vinegar when he got home too - just played and played.

I swear, these kids keep me going. If it wasn't for them.. I dunno. I wonder sometimes. But looking at their precious, cherub faces just lights my heart on fire. I love them so much. I hope they know that one day.

2006-05-15T17:36:00.000-07:00

Andy Pandy turned 6!! Months old today!!! What a sweet boy. I picked him up from daycare and they said his eye was awfully crusty.. so we got home, I gave him a bottle and called the doc. I took him in and she said he has a double ear infection and pinkeye!! WHAT? He's not complained once! And - he hasn't run a fever, he's been eating fairly well - I am just astounded that he has such a yucky infection - and his poor eyes.. My monkey. She gave us antibiotics as well - so that was something good. My brave little man.

Camp had a good day though. He moves up to his next class next Monday - so they had him visit his new room today. He did really well. His daily report showed all smiles all the way down! That's my sweet boy! :) Then, when he got home - he took his lawnmower outside and mowed for a bit - as you can tell from his picture. Then, we came in and he had some grapes. He and Jason played and ate dinner while Andy and I were at the doctor's office. When I came back, he was just about done with dinner, so he and I finished that while Jason took Andy upstairs to rinse him off, give him a bottle and put him to bed. Then - Camp discovered a golf ball, took it into his bath, and is now currently asleep with his golfball in his hands.. I should have gotten a picture of THAT! LOL!

Charlie's birthday party was fun! Camp certainly had a great time playing outside with everyone - he was asleep in the car within 3 minutes of us leaving my sister's house. Charlie was SOOOOO cute. He just had the sweetest, happiest expression on his face when he had his cake. At one point, he was leaning down, sucking on the icing - soooo cute. He's such a beautiful little boy - he looks a lot like my sister, except with dark hair! My other sister, Ashley, had arranged with our favorite children's artist to paint a sweet picture for Charlie's room. It turned out really well - and Beth was very surprised. I thought it was really sweet.

Well, I suppose that's enough gabbing for one night. My mother will be here in the morning - so I need to go and clean my house before she arrives.. otherwise, I'll be mortified.

Ta Ta!

2006-05-13T16:29:00.000-07:00

Ok.. so I was slack this week. Sorry about that my darling boys - but it was a busy, busy one for your Mama. I've been up most nights of the week working on various sewing projects, with the hope that someone will actually like what I create and buy them from me - any income is good income.
Camp had a good week. His right front/side tooth FINALLY broke through. Now he's got his 2 center fronts, and the side right - and his side left should be officially broken through any time. I hate when he teethes - I know he's uncomfortable and ouchy. I think this is why we have to go through all this stuff as babies - so we won't remember it. I still adore the way Camp says "Go Kah!" Ahhh.. a future Gamecock!!!
Camp also had his 1st official swimming lesson today. I was expecting us just to basically get in the water and splash around for 45 minutes or so. We got there, changed and stepped out into the pool area and Camp immediately began to cry. He was scared. So I picked him up - he *slightly* lessoned his complaints... but was making it clear he was NOT happy. So - we put our stuff down, met the instructor - Ingrid (very nice, by the way - English, I think). And then we gently and slowly got in the water. Camp complained for a bit more - so we sat on the edge of the pool until class started. I was impressed with the kids in the class. All around Camp's age - some had obviously been in the water quite a bit more than my boy - but some, not so much. Anyway - we started off by singing "this is the way we... wash our face, wash our hands, kick our legs, wash our hair" just to get the kiddos warmed up. It worked. Ingrid then showed us how to get them to blow bubbles in the water. Camp did twice!! And then drank half the pool. Then - the next task was to get them to the edge of the pool, have them latch on with their hands, and with our assistance, climb out. A little toy motivation was all it took for Camper. He found these little water balls and LOVED them. He was sitting on the edge of the pool and chucked them in - then - on the count of three - I lifted him into the pool and he went and got them. By then end of class he was jumping into my arms. Very brave. The only thing he did NOT like was the part where the kids had to be on their backs - I think it bothered his ears. After class, Jason picked us up and Camp was sound asleep within 5 minutes. Love this kid.
Andy is doing more and more every day. He's now sitting up pretty well - and putting anything and everything that's within his reach into his mouth. I think he has a swollen spot on his right lower jaw - and he's drooling a bunch more. He's also had a bit of a cold this week. Poor monkey. He's started doing blowing raspberries as well. Growing too fast. One thing about Andy - I adore his little smile. I think my favorite thing in the entire universe is to go and get him out of bed in the morning - and when he sees me, his whole face lights up and he wiggles and just grins. It makes my heart sing. I can't imagine my life without my little Pandy. Tonight, I had peas for him to eat. Let's just say - he doesn't like peas all that much right now. We'll try it again - but boy - the look on his little face - and the peas all over the place - pretty much indicated it was not gonna happen tonight.
Tomorrow is Charlie's birthday party. It was supposed to be last weekend, but Ford was awfully sick and running a fever, so Beth postponed it a week. Which is fine. It's actually really sweet. Tomorrow is Mother's Day - and Charlie was born on Mother's Day last year - May 8th.. how fitting that his 1st birthday party is on Mother's Day too. I think it's nice. I found a cute toy for Choo Choo - along with the other surprise thing that we're getting him. I can't say what it is - in case Beth reads this before tomorrow. LOL! But - I think she'll like it! I know Charlie will! I'm looking forward to seeing everyone tomorrow. And it's Mother's Day!!! I never imagined I'd be so happy just to be a Mama. My boys are gifts enough - they are all I ever need.

2006-05-07T17:11:00.000-07:00

Y-M-C-A!!!!! Yep - as you can tell - the fam all went swimming today! It was Andy's very 1st time swimming - and Camp's very 1st time swimming at the Y in such a big pool!!!!
Camp was not really very sure about it at first. He pretty much clung to Jason and I and was very wary. It took a while, but he finally warmed up to it and started splashing and pointing and laughing. He's so sweet. What a cutie. His swim shorts are only about 18 sizes too huge - so they looked completely adorable. Camp ALSO learned how to say "Go Cocks!" today - sorta... it's more of "Go Kahhhhhhhh" (the gamecocks are our football team - we LOVE some USC!!! Especially since ONE day I will get my degree from there.) I love the fact that he is picking up on everything now. God God and Oh-Man are my other 2 favorites. AND the way he says Andy - AAH-Dee. I could squeeze his lips off.
Andy, on the other hand, loved absolutely every second. From the moment he got in the water, his legs just kicked and kicked. I took him out a little bit, and spun with him in my arms and lifted him up and down gently - and he just laughed and laughed. All smiles. A very nice woman commented on how adorable he is (he is!) and when I told her it was his very first time in the pool, she said, "aww!! A water baby! Hey Honey (to her husband) - It's his very first time in the water - isn't he adorable?" that was sweet - and a little odd - but still, sweet.
Charlie's turns the big 1 tomorrow. Beth had originally scheduled his party to be today - but Fordums is not well. He was up all night with an upset tummy and his ear was hurting him. Beth took him to the doctor this afternoon and he's got a really nasty ear infection and white spots on his throat (though he was strep negative) and a virus of some sort in his eye. Bless his heart!!! I can't stand when any baby is sick - but it's 20 times worse when it's someone I love - and I absolutely love Ford. Ok - I love ALL the babies in our family - but you know what I mean. So - Choo Choo's party is NEXT weekend.. which will still be very much fun. I think I might run a small present out there to him tomorrow.. you can't have a birthday without a present! Sheeesh!
I guess that's about it! Ta!

2006-05-05T16:47:00.000-07:00

Andy had a big day today!!!! He rolled over completely from his tummy to his back tonight for us! YAY ANDY!! I can't believe how fast my little baby boy is growing up. Awwwww... He's also chewing on anything and everything he can get his chubby hands on - so I have a feeling that teething is not far off. I'm just so tickled with him - he makes me laugh all the time.
So does Camp! What a funny monkey. His favoritest human alive, Aunt Sharon, stopped by - and he went and got his golf club for her - just so he could show off his fine putting skills. :) He's also definately getting more and more independent every day. His new favorite word is "No". It was so cute - we were sitting at the table feeding the 2 boys - and we started singing the "God our Father" song - Camp folded his hands (sorta) and said GOD, GOD. LOL! Love him!!!!
I made a couple purses to have Danita take to the Fort Mill Festival this weekend - let's hope they sell. I could use the cashola. I'm heading to Columbia with Sharon tomorrow so we can help out my sister Ashley do the flowers for a Bar Mitzvah at the Capital City Club. Should be a lot of fun. Can't wait!! Oh - Happy Cinco de Mayo too.. I think having to listen to it ALL day today at work, I just tried to tune out the thought of it.

2006-05-03T15:47:00.000-07:00

What a day. I am tee-total exhausted. Really. Completely worn out. We had a cookout at work today, and I was up late last night preparing for it. Then, I had to get up really early and go to my class at the Y - and my trainer wore us all OUT this morning. Yikes - so that exhausted me. Plus - well, without going into details- this has just been a bad week so far. Not one I care to repeat. Someone very close to me disappointed me, not that it was unexpected - but nevertheless, shocking. So, I've been dealing with that issue, and it stresses me to no end.
The boys are ok today. Andy took 9!!! ounces before his lunch today! I think that's the most the boy has ever consumed in 1 sitting - then he ate on top of that. Sheesh. He's sleepy tonight - and is currently in the bath with his brother - and he's getting tired. Off to sleepy land for him early tonight, from the sound of it. He ate carrots tonight for dinner with his oatmeal and LOVED them. Ate every ounce.
Camp had an ok day too. He didn't get much of a nap in, and he's a slight grump tonight - but everyone is allowed their off days. He's so funny. I got him a plastic golf set over the weekend from Walmart - nothing expensive - but he carries the clubs everywhere. He tried to even take them in to his school this morning. He's addicted. My father will be proud.
Well, not a lot for me today. I'm melancholy and tired - so definately not the most entertaining state of mind to be in for putting in a journal entry.. but what the heck. Life is not always exciting.

2006-04-30T16:56:00.000-07:00

Well- as you may be able to tell - tonight was a landmark night! It was important for 2 reasons - the 1st being that Andy had his first bath in his bath seat - and the 2nd - the boys took a bath together!! they did REALLy well. I wasn't sure how it was going to go - Camp was a little leary - but Andy enjoyed himself immensly. I think that after Camp loosened up and was figured out that it was fun to stick the foam letters to Andy's head.. he loosened up quite a bit.

We had an interesting morning at church - I had to work the Assimilation Committee's Ministry Fair - so we took both boys to church. Camp was grouchy!! but calmed down after a few minutes in his classroom. At one point, the lady who was working in Andy's room brought him to me because he was acting hungry, but wouldn't take the bottle - so I had to explain how he's very particular and has to have the bottle a certain temperature (HOT!). He took it after I warmed it and tried to fall asleep. Jason took the boys home after the service so I could stay and work the fair. Then, Beth and I went and did some shopping for Charlie's 1st b-day next week. I can't believe he's one already! And then, we came home and just hung out. Jason mowed the yard and Camp followed him from window to window, utterly fascinated. That boy just loves his Daddy. It was a good day today. I love my boys.

2006-04-29T19:39:00.000-07:00

What a DAY!!! It was fantastic! My friend Alexa and her son, Aiden came over this morning. Alexa wanted to learn how to sew - so I showed her how to make some roman curtains for her sons' bedroom. Aiden is a hoot and a half! He's 3 and he and Camp had the best time playing today!!! It was great. Camp was worn out tonight - as you can imagine. Aiden was so sweet and played great with him. I loved it!! I adored having all the noise (good, happy noise) in the house. I adored hearing both Aiden and Camp screech with joy. I loved fixing them all lunch and listening to Aiden talk to me about the tractor at his Grandaddy's and how he got to help plant some corn. Really - I could have a house full of boys and it would thrill me to no end. Andy found all the activity fascinating! He just watched and laughed. At lunch, he was hungry, but exhausted. So I gave him a jar of Applesauce, and I kid you not - within 3 minutes, he was passed out in his bouncy seat. I kept him in the kitchen with us as we sewed - so it was a little more quiet. But you know, this kid doesn't care - if he's tired, he's going to sleep. :)

On the other side of the coin - I had to make the purse on the left as a prize for the church function tomorrow. I love it! I think it's the cutest purse - and the fact that I actually made it! Well - I'm going to have to make myself one - that's all there is to it. It was my very first purse. I think it turned out well. I hope whomever gets it tomorrow likes it. I do.. I guess that's all that should matter.

And now, I'm exhausted. So I am going to sleep myself!!!

2006-04-26T18:52:00.000-07:00

Bathtime for Andy!! Tonight, Andy had his first lay-down bath. He's been using the baby bath - but really, truly has outgrown it. And he splashes EVERYWHERE!! So - in light of the fact that my sister has his bath seat that I've neglected to go and get (I'm slack!)... we decided that he's get to try it this way for a bit. He had a BLAST! Loved every second of it. He laughed and played and splashed and squealed. And he's SO chubby. Ahh... my precious boy.
Camp had a great day too. His beloved Aunt Sharon came by to play a few minutes and she blew him bubbles - he just screeched as he ran around trying to pop them. (Thank you Aunt Ashley for the bubbles!!) And, Jason went to get his new ball out of the car, and he was standing at the door watching - when he saw J coming back with the ball - he said "WOAH!" - except is was more like woehoh. My Southern boy. LOVE IT!!!!
Not much to write today. Went to the doctor about my knee - just said it was a little inflamed and to rest it and ice it.. no biggie. Dang, I can't get out of my excercise class - LOL.

2006-04-25T17:04:00.000-07:00

It truly never ceases to amaze me what each day will bring. Today, my friend Dana buried her beloved Father, Wes. I went to the funeral - it was absolutely beautiful outside. The birds chirped, and the crowd was quietly moved by the serenity of it all. So, tonight I'm melancholy. I stood and watched my friend and her family mourn the loss of the biggest impact on their lives. I watched her shoulders shake from behind, her hand dart up to her face, and her sweet husband wrap his arm around her and gently stroke her back. I can not imagine myself in her shoes - I don't want to. ever. Though the remembrances were sweet, and touching and funny.. it's still utterly heartbreaking. I feel for my friend. I wish I could tell her how my own heart aches for her and fears for me. After the service, I hugged her and her mother. Such sadness. And as I drove away, I promptly picked up my cell and called my own parents, just to tell them I loved them. I tried my sisters too - but couldn't get either - and I called my best friend to talk to her. And of course, my Jason. All the people that I adore and love - I had to call them and tell them. I only wish my boys could talk on the phone.
On brighter notes - Camp is just doing more and more every single day. He is utterly hilarious. Tonight - he was spinning and singing in the kitchen while waiting for me to finish making his dinner. I walked over to him, took his little hands in mine and swung him around - he just screeched! He's saying more every day too - we're still working on please and thank you .. but he's getting there. Did I tell you that he calls hot dogs "dot dogs"? cracks me up!
Andy had a great day as well! His favorite teacher was with him all day today - so I know he got plenty of love and kisses all day long. He's eating 2 meals a day now, in addition to his bottles. I weighed him over the weekend and he's up to 21 1/2 pounds!! Good grief!!! When we got home this afternoon, I had him on my lap and was shaking one of his peek-a-balls for him - this one has a "mini" tambourine in it of sorts - he just laughed and laughed and laughed. I have no clue what was so funny - but if it started clanking - he just cracked up. He has the brightest, most bubbly laugh in the universe. I could dance on it.
Well - I'm signing off for the day. I thank God for all my wonderful friends and family - and I really hope they all know how much they mean to me. I hate that it takes sad days like today for me to make sure they know.

2006-04-22T17:06:00.000-07:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY WALKER!!! My gorgeous (no kidding!!) nephew Walker is 1 today!! The party is tomorrow and I can't wait to see them. I'm hoping to get some pics - and I'll be able to post one tomorrow.. but it just makes me all sentimental when I think about Wah being 1. He was sooooo teeny when he 1st arrived - he was early too - but man, he sure has changed! He's bright, and active, and is just adorable. Wait until you see his unbelievable eyes... My sister makes pretty babies. I hope she has another one. I swear I had a dream about her last night and she was pregnant - but she told us on Mother's day? Anywho...I'm really excited for them. She and David are awesome parents.. I'm so grateful to have them and my beautiful nephew in my life..
So - today was interesting. We all got up early, and went to breakfast. Camp once again entertained everyone walking by with a loud "HEY!" He even tried to grab the poor waitresses as they walked by. oy. But he ate his melon, egg, bacon, and hashbrown - then more melon and some raisins.. so sweet. Andy ate an ENTIRE jar of bananas today at breakfast! Not only was this his 1st time having a breakfast - he ate the whole thing!!!!!!!! He's growing - fast! We're pretty much in 6-9 month closing - some 9-12. I NEED to try on his christening gown to make sure it actually fits! Yipe! After breakfast, we came home - I ran out to an auction they were having in town - but because of the rain, they cancelled it. Shame too - they had a really cute child's piano I wanted for the boys.. Then, I ran to Walmart. Well, maybe RAN is the totally wrong word. Drove slowly through blinding rain only to totter around Walmart for the next hour and a half... then having to come home and help with kiddos. I gave Camp a grilled cheese sammich for lunch - he ate a little, but was SO tired. So he went to sleep. I mopped the kitchen, did some laundry, and put away dishes before reloading it.. and then had to run to my hair appointment. I finally FINALLY got my manicure/Pedicure that Sharon gave me - I looooved every second of it - and my nails look so pretty. Course, I also got my hair cut - and Jason hates it, even though he says he doesn't. It was one of those reactions "well, what do you think?" and he shrugged and said "ehh".. NICE... well, there goes any hope of trying to be cute for me. I just give up..
Gave Camp and Andy dinner, and they are currently down for the count. We're grilling out tonight.
Oh - sad news. My friend Dana's daddy passed away at 1:20 am today. I am so incredibly sad for her. The heartbreak in her voice - man... I didn't know her Daddy that well - but I know about him and I know how much Dana loved him. It's just tragic. Dana is trying to be strong - but this is killing her and all I want to do is wrap my arms around her and just hug her. The visitation is on Monday night - so I am definately going to that. I may even attend the graveside service, if I can. I'd really like to anyway.. I'll pray for Dana and her family. I can only imagine the pain..

2006-04-19T09:12:00.000-07:00

Cuteness in the morning! Got to LOVE it! So - Camp woke up all bright eyed and bushy tailed this morning. Got him dress and we headed downstairs to make breakfast - a glass of milk, cheerios and cheese toast. He said it this morning! The 1st time! It came out more like "thee toes" but hey, I'll take it - the adorable factor alone kills me.
Andy was the same way when he woke up - all wiggles and sunshiney smiles. He's a doll. I think we're going to start giving him cereal in the morning soon. He's sucking down 6 and 7 ounce bottles like there is no tomorrow - and eating a big bowl of oatmeal with bananas at night. We tried to give him carrots last night - he did great when mixed with the oatmeal.. but man - the face he made at just the plain carrots - HAHAHAHAH!!! Too cute!!!
Ahh, my boys - here I sit, at work, on my lunchbreak typing about my darling boys.. Can you tell they are pretty much all I think about?
:)
OK - so here's my Evening Update!! Andy is such a sweetheart! I swear - he really, truly is just a great baby!!! Tonight he started a new thing with his oatmeal - blowing it - I ended up with it ALL over me - but hey, that's perfectly ok with me. It's currently 7:33 pm and I just put him in his bed for the night.
Camp is saying new stuff CONSTANTLY! He's got "bye" down - and whenever Jason or I leave the room - he's waving and yelling it. So cute!!! He had mango as his snack when we got home! His 1st mango - he ate almost the entire thing! (I snuck in some bites too). And then he ate most of his pasta shells with cheese for dinner. But - after all that mango, I'm not surprised he didn't devour his dinner as usual. He's in the tub, at this very moment. I can hear him talking to Jason in his jabber. Non-stop too. This kid LOVES water. We signed him up for swim lessons too - so he'll really get a kick out of that.
Me tonight? Tired. Really tired. I've started this training class at the Y - 3 days a week from 5:30 - 6:30 AM! Yes folks - I get up at 4:40 in the morning and go to the Y at least 3 days a week. I really like the class and I'm learning alot about the way I should be working out and what's best for my body!! And - I've quit smoking! I started smoking again after Andy was born - 1st at work, then at lunch, then at night after the boys went to sleep (outside of course! Never in the house!!) and I've quit.. I don't want to keep doing that to my body - or risk my kids seeing me and picking up such an awful habit. So - no more for moi! :)
I had a review today at work - and it went pretty well. It was my 1st one in a supervisory role - so that was neat to see.. and I've been challenged with some great goals - and I can't wait to get started on learning all that I can.
Well - I think that's it for the day. I'll write more another time.
T

2006-04-17T19:57:00.000-07:00

Not gonna write a lot today - just another Monday! Andy was so funny this evening. He was HUNGRY when we got home - so we gave him a 4 ounce bottle, then a ton of oatmeal and he passed slap out in his bouncy seat - with oatmeal all over his face. Jason managed to wake him back up and get him a bath. But then, he only wanted 2 ounces and then he wanted to go to sleep!! So funny. Squirmed and fussed until I put him down on his side - and he popped his thumb in and went right to sleep. My little sweetheart.. just has me all sorts of wrapped around his fingers.
Tonight Camp tried a fish filet for the first time. He loved it! Course it helped that he had "dip dip" as well (ketchup). And his mixed veggies. I'm lucky because he likes veggies SO much. And he passed out during his 1st book tonight. Poor little guy has 2 new teeth coming in near his front 2 on the bottom. His gums are so swollen. I wish they would go ahead and break through, ya know? Good thing it happens when they're babies and don't remember any of it.
Oh well.. it's late for me and I'm pretty exhausted. I had a friend and coworker, Amy, come in from NY tonight - so we had dinner and went for coffee. Love her too!!!
Nite!

2006-04-16T16:55:00.000-07:00

HAPPY EASTER!!! I love Easter - I really do. It was Andy Pandy's very first Easter - and Camp's first Easter where he was actually semi-aware of the festivities. The picture is taken at my beloved Mimi's house in Columbia. I have such wonderful memories of happy Easter's at her home - and I hope my children's memories will be just as wonderful.

AND - Happy Birthday to my absolutely terrific best friend Sharon!!!! She's 29 and holding today!! (Shay - if you ever read this - you will ALWAYS be 29 in my postings.. no matter what!)I called and left her a voicemail. I hope she's had a faboo day. I know she was going to have lunch with her family and her darling boyfriend.. I hope she's had a great day! She's amazing and wonderful and talented and very pretty - I should hate her endlessly - but I can't!!!! You see those movies about those women that have remained friends through there entire lives - well - that's Shay and I. I'm lucky - I have a few women in my life who I just know will always be there.. and Shay is one.

The day started well for us! Andy slept until 6:30!!! YAY!!! I love when he sleeps ALL NIGHT. It's finally becoming more and more frequent. Which is such a wonderful thing. Camp got up around 7 - and we all had breakfast. Lo and Behold - the Easter Bunny came for the boys. Camp got some candy, a bunny that hops across the table (when you pull on it's pull-string), a Hollow Easter Bunny, and - his very 1st Matchox car! It was a yellow Plymouth something or other. Jason liked it - and Camp sure did. He would not put it down. It has officially begun. Andy had a basket with some plastic eggs in the shapes of balls - football, soccer, etc - and he has a new stuffed bunny that says "my 1st Easter" on it - it's yellow and white. Course, next year - he'll get HIS first matchbox car - but it's way way too early for that.

We all went to church this morning. It was packed. We dropped the boys off in their classrooms - and Jason and I were helping with the 3 year old nursery room. Good thing - as there were 16 kids today! Wowser! I like helping with the 3 year olds - they're so funny. We read, and did puzzles, and had snacks. And best of all - my sweet, precious, nephew Ford got to be in the room too! He's 3 and a half. I could eat him up he's so sweet. He played really well with the other kids - even when some child kept taking the dinosaur he was playing with. I am very proud of him. Not only is he brilliant and handsome - but he's such a sweet boy too. Our family is very lucky.

Then - after church, we all packed off to Columbia. My grandparents are getting so old. It breaks my heart to see them getting that way. I think back when we used to play with them - and go to the beach with them - and man - they were so lively and energetic - and we did everything with them. And now - time.. marches on - and it's just sad to think about. At one point, my Grandaddy was in his recliner, leaning to one side so his arm was off the far edge so he could pet his dog- and the expression on his face, and how ridgid his body was in that position. It just made me view the inevitable right then and there. I know what he'll look like when he dies - I saw it today. And it broke my heart. I got up and kissed him on the cheek and told him I loved him. Which I do, very much. I've never understood much about his life - I know he was an orphan - and he was given up for adoption during the depression. He was also in the Military. But - how sad is it that I know so little about the rest of his life. I need to fix that asap.

My Mimi - whom I want to grow up and be just like - is terrific. She's old too, now. But she's so sweet and always smiles at me and has the most affectionate look in her eyes when she does. I just want to reach out and pick her up and put her in my pocket. I think she's proud of my boys - she thinks they are sweet, I think. She repeats herself alot, and is not in the best of health anymore - her alzheimers is wearing on her too - but I love this woman. Very much. I really do want to grow up and be a lot like her.. or at least the her that my memories are of. She's amazing.

So - now back from the tangent.. We saw a lot of the family today - my cousin Mark and his wife Trisha and their beautiful son, Evan. (he's got the most gorgeous dark curls). My cousin Andy (whom my son is named after). My cousin Ginny and her handsome new hubby Bubba. And of course, sister Beth and Will with Ford and Charlie. And my other sister Ashley, her hubby David and their gorgeous son Walker. I hadn't seen "Wa" in a LONG time - he's gotten HUGE - and BLONDE! When did that happen. He'll be 1 this coming Saturday. My Mama and Daddy, Mimi and Grandaddy and my Aunt Gail and her husband Bill - who I consider my Uncle. They've not been married but more than a couple years - but it seems like he's just been part of our family forever. I really adore him. And he treats my aunt well - which is the most important thing. I love my family. All of them. Maybe they just don't realize how much - but each one just plays such a roll in my life, quiet though it may be.. but significant.

We had lunch, Camp and Ford played in the yard with the spigot (it doesn't take much to entertain toddlers). Andy just kind of hung out and looked chubby and cute - which he is. We left Cola about 4:15 and came home. Jason mowed most of the yard, before the lawn mower died, then we fed and bathed the boys and put them to bed. It's now 8:15 ... and I'm WIPED! LOL! Sad, sad, sad. Oh well - still have to clean the downstairs, or at least make it look decent, wash bottles and RELAX a bit.. ya know? Anyway - my life is boring - but I don't care. It's my life, and I love 98% of it. (ok - make me really skinny and rich, then we'll be at 100%).

2006-04-13T15:26:00.000-07:00

Aww- what sweeties I have in my 2 boys. Today, Camp had a class party for Easter. So Jason took off early to go and play with him - then he picked up Andy too and brought them to work to see me. I love when they do that. And I had them in matching outfits too. So sweet. Everyone just says how beautiful they are - and how they are so chubby and sweet and happy. And it's true. I am proud, can you tell? Then, when we got home - I fed Andy and Camp was playing with his ball - his soccer ball. He loves that thing. And then Andy went into his exersaucer. Camp brought him his stuffed ducky that their Aunt Sharon gave to Andy and was trying to play with his baby brother. I'm telling ya - this kid knows exactly how to wrap me around his finger. He was all bubbles and laughter at Muzak. And he got to play with his favorite play-person, Mr. Grey, whom he promptly knocked in the head a bunch of times with a hard, plastic car. Poor Grey. Tonight - we're just going to hang out and be a family. And tomorrow, I took the day off to be with the boys, since they are off too. Should be FUN! I love it. I wish I could stay home all the time with them. Maybe we SHOULD downsize our house. Find an older home and make it our own... hrm.. options, options.

Day one in the life of Boys

2006-04-12T10:20:00.000-07:00

Well...
This is new and interesting. My friend Amy got me started on writing a blog - how cool is THIS? I keep a diary for each of my 2 boys.. but now I had an online place, just for ME! Maybe I should introduce myself, or something.

Well - I'm a Mama. 31, married - and have my 2 precious boys - Camp and Andy. Camp is a family name - short for Campbell, and Andy is short for Andrew- after a beloved cousin of mine. I also own a slew of dogs and cats, and work full time. Yes - I stay very busy.
Now - a little about my two sons. I struggled for years with infertility. So, after shots, and IUD's and all that fun, I decided to have Gastric Bypass in July 03. I have PCOS - so that makes me insulin restistant and more apt to gain weight - which makes me me insulin resistant, and so on..
Anyway - I had the surgery adn lost a lot of weight - 100 pounds in 6 months. So in Feb 04, my Reproductive Endocrinologist decided to try 1 cycle to see how my new improved body reacted to the Gonal-F. Well - in November, Camp was born. I can't tell you how very amazing that felt. to have miscarriages, and finally, finally have my miracle boy - wow. Then, in March of 05.. I was feeling SO tired all the time. I wasn't even late, but I decided to test - why the heck not? And sure enough - PG! Andy was born in November as well. They are 1 year and 9 days apart.

My boys - I can't even describe. Camp is active, and vivacious and stubborn and smart. He absolutely loves to entertain whomever will watch and play. He loves to laugh. His newest trick is to "tickle" people. So - he sticks out his pointer finger and pokes you - and then cracks himself up in the process. Sweet, silly boy. His smile lights up my world.
Andy is my happy, chubby baby. He's so laid back and just loves to coo and talk and smile. Today, after we got home, I had him playing in his bouncey seat, and he just starts running. LOL! I don't know where he was going - but hey - he was running. And laughing. He's got a bit of a cold right now - so that makes him all stuffy.. poor monkey. But my favorite thing about Andy is that he's just so happy. And he's SO chubby. He'll be 5 months old on the 15th - and we had him weighed at the dr. office yesterday - and he's 19.8 pounds. WOW. Big boy.

I'm married to Jason - I love him deeply. We just celebrated our 6th anniversary this past Saturday. Amazing how fast time flies. 10 years together, 6 years married. unreal. And for the most part, we've been very happy. I think I fall in love with him all over again when I see him holding and playing one of the boys. So sweet. And how he takes my hands when we're driving, and just holds them.

The other thing that's going on in our household - my beloved cat Niles is missing. My parents came up to babysit the boys for the night on our anniversary, and they let Niles out. He's an indoor only kitty - and he's been missing ever since. I can't stand it. I just wish I could see him again and hold him and hug him and see his sweet little face looking expectantly, and his sweet little meow. I keep dreaming about him. I wish I knew. I miss him.