Oh, this house. We have always dreamt of having something bigger and nicer. We have been saving from soon after we got married for our “house on the hill.” However, now that our house has sold, I’m getting a little sad and sentimental about our first home. This was the first house your Dad ever bought, the home that I moved into after your Dad and I married, this was the home in which we brought you, our first born home from the hospital. This house is oozing love, memories, fun times, laughter, and all sorts of “firsts.” It will always hold such a special place in our hearts. It is just big enough for the three of us. It’s big enough that we aren’t under each other’s feet but small enough that you can’t get away from each other! This home has been the place where all worldly worries fade and the important things become the focus. Work is forgotten and dreams are realized. The Home Team has actually become a team under this roof. When the builder of this house was putting brick to brick and linoleum down (yep, linoleum) he couldn’t have anticipated the wonderfulness that would take place in these 1300 square feet. We will always fondly remember this wonderful, simple, small sanctuary. 702 Oak Lawn Lane, thank you.
Thursday, November 25, 2010
A memoir
I typically don't blog about the stuff that I scrapbook as it's a little more personal. However, tonight, as boxes pile slowly (Ugh--so slowly. Anyone want to come move us?) around me, I'm feeling quite sentimental. Thus, my three readers get a glimpse into my thoughts...
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
One year. Ups and downs
Ups go first:
Our boy is 24 lbs. (75th percentile), 34 inches (95th percentile), and 90th percentile in noggin size (that means he's real smart even though he won't wave or clap. Argh. What one year old refuses to wave or clap? I mean, he shows me his belly button to tickle, he'll high five, and will even give me the "tough guy face" on command. Why not a simple wave? I digress.)
The downs:
While he is RSV negative, he was noted to have some crackles and wheezes (lung sounds that aren't good.) He probably has a bit of bronchiolitis and will have to be watched closely for the next few days. He's also got some fluid in one of his ears but it's small so if he spikes a temp, it is probably another ear infection. This is for all you formula and day care moms out there: I breastfed for the full year and he didn't even start a mother's morning out program until around 8 months and it's only twice a week. He'll be on his 4th ear infection. Ugh. Just goes to show that no matter what you try to do to protect these buggers, it really comes down to luck, family history, and neurotic hand washing (although sometimes that doesn't even work.)
I just realized my "downs" paragraph was way longer. That's just sad. Here's some more "ups."
--He's not in the hospital and I will keep it that way with lots of fluids and fruits and veggies (and neurotic hand washing.)
--He's going to his first college football game for Thanksgiving, The Egg Bowl. I'm pretty fired up. I'm just hoping that after 5 minutes, when he's over it, I'll have a willing babysitter (read: Granna) to take him home so that we can actually watch the game. Don't worry, she doesn't like football either.
--Speaking of Granna: she looks like a picture of health. She's almost totally given up Diet Coke and replaced it with....wait for it...aww yeah...WATER! My Mom is the bomb. Next, she's going to join a gym sometime this month.
--I'm looking at 8 houses Friday and have already fallen in love with one last week. I'm making sure it's THE house before we make a bid.
--My Mother in law is awesome. I just thought I'd throw that in there because, well, frankly, she is. Also, I think it's pretty rare to have a MIL that you love and I am totally crazy about her.
--The wall came down at work. For those of you that work with us or even within a 50 mile radius of us, you'll know how big this is. We've been working in a construction zone for over 6 months now and we were over it. The new rooms are so nice and state of the art. Can't wait to see it tomorrow!!
There we go. Lots of ups!
Our boy is 24 lbs. (75th percentile), 34 inches (95th percentile), and 90th percentile in noggin size (that means he's real smart even though he won't wave or clap. Argh. What one year old refuses to wave or clap? I mean, he shows me his belly button to tickle, he'll high five, and will even give me the "tough guy face" on command. Why not a simple wave? I digress.)
The downs:
While he is RSV negative, he was noted to have some crackles and wheezes (lung sounds that aren't good.) He probably has a bit of bronchiolitis and will have to be watched closely for the next few days. He's also got some fluid in one of his ears but it's small so if he spikes a temp, it is probably another ear infection. This is for all you formula and day care moms out there: I breastfed for the full year and he didn't even start a mother's morning out program until around 8 months and it's only twice a week. He'll be on his 4th ear infection. Ugh. Just goes to show that no matter what you try to do to protect these buggers, it really comes down to luck, family history, and neurotic hand washing (although sometimes that doesn't even work.)
I just realized my "downs" paragraph was way longer. That's just sad. Here's some more "ups."
--He's not in the hospital and I will keep it that way with lots of fluids and fruits and veggies (and neurotic hand washing.)
--He's going to his first college football game for Thanksgiving, The Egg Bowl. I'm pretty fired up. I'm just hoping that after 5 minutes, when he's over it, I'll have a willing babysitter (read: Granna) to take him home so that we can actually watch the game. Don't worry, she doesn't like football either.
--Speaking of Granna: she looks like a picture of health. She's almost totally given up Diet Coke and replaced it with....wait for it...aww yeah...WATER! My Mom is the bomb. Next, she's going to join a gym sometime this month.
--I'm looking at 8 houses Friday and have already fallen in love with one last week. I'm making sure it's THE house before we make a bid.
--My Mother in law is awesome. I just thought I'd throw that in there because, well, frankly, she is. Also, I think it's pretty rare to have a MIL that you love and I am totally crazy about her.
--The wall came down at work. For those of you that work with us or even within a 50 mile radius of us, you'll know how big this is. We've been working in a construction zone for over 6 months now and we were over it. The new rooms are so nice and state of the art. Can't wait to see it tomorrow!!
There we go. Lots of ups!
Monday, November 15, 2010
Humor me.
I am fired up. Really. Our house just sold. It was on the market 35 days. We're even going to make a little change on it in the process. HOWEVER, I was not expecting for the "grass is surely greener" side. First off, I love our starter home. It is the perfect size for us. If we want another rugrat, that's another story, but for us, it's fab. It's so cozy and is in the perfect location. We are within 2 miles of restaurants, grocery, our gym, E's Mother's Morning Out, Lindsay, Mom, ice cream (oops!), etc. We're only 10 minutes from my work and about 5 minutes from Wade's work. This is the house Wade bought when we were dating, the house we moved in after we married, and the house in which we brought our first born home from the hospital. I do NOT love our neighborhood, lack of yard, and I'm not super keen on the school district. Thus, back to the fired up about selling our little home. I have looked at over 10 homes in two days for us to buy. Who knew people, in general, are messy folk? Wade and I found ourselves almost putting a bid down on a house just because it was actually clean. Never mind the fact that the entire backyard was a HUGE pool and we have a one year old. Almost every house we have looked in is a mess with "projects" throughout. I'm not even talking change the paint color. We're talking change out crown molding (with an emphasis on the molding part), sand and refinish hardwood floors, knock down walls. We will be homeless as of December 17th. Yep, just before Christmas. The guy accepted our counter offer on the price of the house but not the date of closing. We took the money and quit fussing. Anyway, I keep trying to think how fortunate we are that we actually sold our house in this market. I know a lot of people would like to be in this predicament. Someone call the wambulance. I'm back to being grateful that our house sold without hassle. Thanks for allowing me to get it off my chest.
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
First Birthday
I love a good craft project. However, with Shoog's first birthday, maybe I got in a bit over my head. I am making all the decor which includes a "Happy Birthday" banner, his invites, sewed his birthday pants (Mom says if all the stitching falls out, it really will be his birthday suit. Harharhar. I got a lot of confidence from her.), his scrapbook actually up to date for the big day, and his guitar cake/smash cake. I won't even go into all the pics that'll be decorating the place. And this is just a little family get together. I LOVE this stuff but it makes me sad that it's actually stressing me out more than anything. With the help of two awesome people tonight (Holla, Aunt L and Aunt Buff), I finally got it almost done. His birthday's in a week and a half but I work the next five. I think on the day after he turns one, I'll take a deep breath (read: drink a glass of wine), sit back, and start slowly planning for NUMERO TWO (as in second birthday, not a second child. Simmer down, Grandmas.) Anyway, here's a snap shot that went out with his invites. The theme is Sheriff/Cowboy. Ever since E could hold his head up, Wade "rides" him on his knees and does this whole monologue about E being the Sheriff "out west." Here's a snippet, "In my town, there'll be no horn-swagglin', loan jumpin' (very appropriate in these economic times), or scallywaggin'. But what will be tolerated is whiskey and wild women." Yeah, we'll have to change it up a bit soon with that last part now that he's starting to understand us but nonetheless... I actually printed the pic in sepia so all the rando colors weren't so distracting but I'm not super computer savvy so you'll just have to be distracted. Also, here's the poem I wrote for the occasion.
Howdy, Folks!
It's been a great year for our buckaroo.
We'd like to throw down and wish you would too.
He won't arrest you. Have no fear.
Unless you're an outlaw, well, then I wouldn't come near.
Saddle up, Folks, we're circling the wagons.
Keep those boots up, don't let them go draggin'.
We're ropin' you in, it's time for some fun.
Because Sheriff Everett is turnin' ONE!
You can keep your comments to yourself. It took me at least an hour to come up with it so if you have nothing nice to say, shut your pie hole.
Howdy, Folks!
It's been a great year for our buckaroo.
We'd like to throw down and wish you would too.
He won't arrest you. Have no fear.
Unless you're an outlaw, well, then I wouldn't come near.
Saddle up, Folks, we're circling the wagons.
Keep those boots up, don't let them go draggin'.
We're ropin' you in, it's time for some fun.
Because Sheriff Everett is turnin' ONE!
You can keep your comments to yourself. It took me at least an hour to come up with it so if you have nothing nice to say, shut your pie hole.
Monday, September 27, 2010
Summer is over (ugh.)
Well, after hearing about all my friends' wonderful beach trips all summer, it was finally time for the Watts/Clairain/Felder/Hill family beach trip. I never thought it'd get here. We had to wait until September this year secondary to a beautiful little addition to our family, Evan (my cousin's baby), scheduled to make his arrival in August. Don't think for one second his Grandmother was going to miss that! Anyway, we had a great time. Everett LOVED the Gulf. He thought the waves were hysterical and would laugh every time they came at him. He was mostly indifferent about the sand. He did great though and would stay out there in his little shaded pool for a couple hours everyday, happy as a little clam. He also (finally) got his first tooth the first day we were there. Just a little bitty white speck on his bottom jaw. Anyway, here's a few pics.
Not real sure why he's pulling on his nipple here...
Fam beach shot. I was about 26 weeks preggers with him last year during our trip. How time flies.
On another note, we put our house on the market the day after we got back. I am a bit nervous but trying to be excited. Neither Wade nor I have ever sold a house and he's only bought the one we're in. I've never actually purchased one since we were just dating when he bought this one. Anyway, here comes another chapter!
Not real sure why he's pulling on his nipple here...
Fam beach shot. I was about 26 weeks preggers with him last year during our trip. How time flies.
On another note, we put our house on the market the day after we got back. I am a bit nervous but trying to be excited. Neither Wade nor I have ever sold a house and he's only bought the one we're in. I've never actually purchased one since we were just dating when he bought this one. Anyway, here comes another chapter!
Monday, September 6, 2010
Splish Splash
I know most of you probably don't care what goes on at the Watts' home somewhere between the hours of 6:30-7:30 every night. However, for those of you who are interested (read: Granna, Grandma Patty, Aunt L, and probably Aunt Buff) here's a chronological photo set just for you. Yep, it's BATHTIME. Since our boy was days old, he's LOVED bath. For the first 6 months of his life, I bathed with him and loved it. As he grew mobile though, my free time got more precious. Thus, this job is happily (for Hom and I) delegated to Ev's doting Daddy. Don't think I'm off lying on the couch or anything though. I'm usually cleaning our dinner dishes. Wade allowed me in our their sacred ritual to snap a few candids. ((Side note: Who knew that Wade sings "She'll Be Comin' Round the Mountain" during his bath every night? No clue why.)) Anyway, without further ado, I give you....Bath time for men
First, you gotta run some hot water.
Only tough guys take baths.
Then, you gotta get the clothes and diaper off (throw in a little tickling for kicks).
Every night that's rolled since we first bathed Everett, Wade has done this. It's kind of a big deal.
"Let's stop and look how handsome we are today."
On the infrequent night that I bathe Ev, Wade checks to make sure I "looked how handsome we were today."
Then we're off to get our scrub on. Land of a Thousand Dimples. Bring on the wedding photo montage. His future wife is gonna love this.
Spend a few minutes playing with our bath toys. Gotta have a boat. Did I mention that his Great Grandfather, Uncle, and cousins were Riverboat pilots?
And finally, the drying. In this pic, Wade is chanting Ev's wrestling chant. I swear we don't watch wrestling but my hubs has quite the imagination. Shoogie Shug is Ev's "wrestling name."
"And now, in the white corner, weighing in at two zero point two pounds from the great magnolia state of Mississippi. The Master of Disaster, the Minister of Mischief, the Iotola of Rock and Rolla, The King of Sting.....SHOOGIE SHUG!!! Shoogie! Shoogie! Shoogie!" Again, no clue.
First, you gotta run some hot water.
Only tough guys take baths.
Then, you gotta get the clothes and diaper off (throw in a little tickling for kicks).
Every night that's rolled since we first bathed Everett, Wade has done this. It's kind of a big deal.
"Let's stop and look how handsome we are today."
On the infrequent night that I bathe Ev, Wade checks to make sure I "looked how handsome we were today."
Then we're off to get our scrub on. Land of a Thousand Dimples. Bring on the wedding photo montage. His future wife is gonna love this.
Spend a few minutes playing with our bath toys. Gotta have a boat. Did I mention that his Great Grandfather, Uncle, and cousins were Riverboat pilots?
And finally, the drying. In this pic, Wade is chanting Ev's wrestling chant. I swear we don't watch wrestling but my hubs has quite the imagination. Shoogie Shug is Ev's "wrestling name."
"And now, in the white corner, weighing in at two zero point two pounds from the great magnolia state of Mississippi. The Master of Disaster, the Minister of Mischief, the Iotola of Rock and Rolla, The King of Sting.....SHOOGIE SHUG!!! Shoogie! Shoogie! Shoogie!" Again, no clue.
Sunday, September 5, 2010
A funny thing happened...
in labor and delivery. Yeah, you read that right. Here's one of those stories that people often nod their head and state, "Only me." This is the truth according to my orthopedic doctor. I can't decide whether to laugh or cry about it so I'll share it here in order to make light of it. Maybe then it will seem funnier. Probably not.
It all started when I decided I wanted a drug-free delivery with my children. My Mom had done it with me and my brother (and I was 9 lb. 8 oz.). Now, don't get me wrong, I would never break my leg and ask for no pain meds but I had always wanted to feel the true pain of labor. It is LABOR after all. I told my doctor my intentions but that I would do whatever I could to keep the baby the safest. If that meant pitocin, epidural, etc. I'd do it against my wishes in order to get baby and mom home in the best condition. Well, my labor went exactly according to my plans. Water broke at 10 pm, at hospital by 11:30 (having 3 minute contractions but still felt the need to shower and straighten hair). By the time they checked me at 11:30, I was already 4 cm. By 0509, I was starting to push. That's when things got a little hairy. I pushed. and pushed. and pushed. I had to play a sort of "tug-of-war" with the nurses to push in the right spot. The nurse held a towel and I pulled with all my might against it. Some say that a doctor won't let you push in excess of 2 hours. For some docs, it's a 3 hour cutoff before they take you for a C section. I'm assuming because I'd labored that long successfully with no drugs and my doc knew my intentions, she didn't opt for a section. Maybe she knew I was getting close. Anyway, I pushed for 3 hours and 15 minutes exactly (0824) when my beautiful, healthy barely cone-headed boy emerged into this world. Now, I've talked to friends that had an epidural and "pushed 3 times and out popped the baby." Well, (while jealous) that's not the way my story was intended to be written and I wouldn't change it (but, God, if you're listening, it sure would be nice to only push like maybe 2 hours for the next kiddo. Just saying.) Anyway, I was cleaning up my hospital room by 10 am in preparation for visitors and felt great. I was sore all over which I would imagine is normal. A week later, things were starting to feel normal again except this nagging left shoulder pain. I assumed it was because I was holding babe with my left arm more because I'm right handed and needed it free to write, unload dishes, and all the other things multitasking moms do. Anyway, a few months go by and I tried to be more diligent about swapping him to each arm but to no avail. When Everett was about 7 months, I offhandedly mentioned it to my internal medicine doctor. I showed him what hurt and he referred me to an orthopedic doctor. The Ortho doctor then asked if it was a sports injury, accident, etc. Imagine his surprise when I casually mentioned it was from labor. Anyway, after weeks of physical therapy, a contrasted MRI (OUCH) revealed that I have multiple longitudinal tears in my bicep with some fluid accumulation along with tendonosis. He said the only cure was to scope my shoulder, cut out the "bad spot", and "tie the good ends together." Sounds easy peasey, right? Yeah, if it's not your shoulder. Anyway, so while I bull-headedly opted out of the damn epidural, I now have a torn bicep to show for it. I keep having to tell myself that it would have happened anyway. Ortho doc has allowed me to put surgery off until early next year since I have to have my thyroid out next month and my shoulder is non-emergent. I would give a moral to this story but, honestly, I don't have one. Maybe you guys can help me out and, no, I still would opt out of the epidural. Sorry. They don't call me stubborn for nothing.
It all started when I decided I wanted a drug-free delivery with my children. My Mom had done it with me and my brother (and I was 9 lb. 8 oz.). Now, don't get me wrong, I would never break my leg and ask for no pain meds but I had always wanted to feel the true pain of labor. It is LABOR after all. I told my doctor my intentions but that I would do whatever I could to keep the baby the safest. If that meant pitocin, epidural, etc. I'd do it against my wishes in order to get baby and mom home in the best condition. Well, my labor went exactly according to my plans. Water broke at 10 pm, at hospital by 11:30 (having 3 minute contractions but still felt the need to shower and straighten hair). By the time they checked me at 11:30, I was already 4 cm. By 0509, I was starting to push. That's when things got a little hairy. I pushed. and pushed. and pushed. I had to play a sort of "tug-of-war" with the nurses to push in the right spot. The nurse held a towel and I pulled with all my might against it. Some say that a doctor won't let you push in excess of 2 hours. For some docs, it's a 3 hour cutoff before they take you for a C section. I'm assuming because I'd labored that long successfully with no drugs and my doc knew my intentions, she didn't opt for a section. Maybe she knew I was getting close. Anyway, I pushed for 3 hours and 15 minutes exactly (0824) when my beautiful, healthy barely cone-headed boy emerged into this world. Now, I've talked to friends that had an epidural and "pushed 3 times and out popped the baby." Well, (while jealous) that's not the way my story was intended to be written and I wouldn't change it (but, God, if you're listening, it sure would be nice to only push like maybe 2 hours for the next kiddo. Just saying.) Anyway, I was cleaning up my hospital room by 10 am in preparation for visitors and felt great. I was sore all over which I would imagine is normal. A week later, things were starting to feel normal again except this nagging left shoulder pain. I assumed it was because I was holding babe with my left arm more because I'm right handed and needed it free to write, unload dishes, and all the other things multitasking moms do. Anyway, a few months go by and I tried to be more diligent about swapping him to each arm but to no avail. When Everett was about 7 months, I offhandedly mentioned it to my internal medicine doctor. I showed him what hurt and he referred me to an orthopedic doctor. The Ortho doctor then asked if it was a sports injury, accident, etc. Imagine his surprise when I casually mentioned it was from labor. Anyway, after weeks of physical therapy, a contrasted MRI (OUCH) revealed that I have multiple longitudinal tears in my bicep with some fluid accumulation along with tendonosis. He said the only cure was to scope my shoulder, cut out the "bad spot", and "tie the good ends together." Sounds easy peasey, right? Yeah, if it's not your shoulder. Anyway, so while I bull-headedly opted out of the damn epidural, I now have a torn bicep to show for it. I keep having to tell myself that it would have happened anyway. Ortho doc has allowed me to put surgery off until early next year since I have to have my thyroid out next month and my shoulder is non-emergent. I would give a moral to this story but, honestly, I don't have one. Maybe you guys can help me out and, no, I still would opt out of the epidural. Sorry. They don't call me stubborn for nothing.
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
MMO
So I have been looking forward to Everett being in a Mother's Morning Out program since before I knew Everett was an Everett. I just think it's a great way to ease into socialization without being in daycare 5 days a week. Plus, with me only working 2 days a week, daycare seems silly. Anyway, we had meet the teachers Monday and Ev had a ball exploring his room. He seemed shocked that people come in his size too. On the other hand, I might actually be able to wash/fold clothes, cook dinner, shower, or any other crazy things I want to do for those precious 3 hours. Well, I've been working several days in a row lately and got a bit behind on things so....
I will be spending Ev's first day at MMO.......making him food, putting up his outgrown clothes, and scrapbooking in a book that only his wife will ever appreciate. Oh well, in two weeks I've already scheduled an eyebrow wax and pedicure. The spa laughed at me because I was planning "so far ahead of time." If they only knew.
I will be spending Ev's first day at MMO.......making him food, putting up his outgrown clothes, and scrapbooking in a book that only his wife will ever appreciate. Oh well, in two weeks I've already scheduled an eyebrow wax and pedicure. The spa laughed at me because I was planning "so far ahead of time." If they only knew.
Thursday, August 12, 2010
9 months
This just sums up what my life has been the last few weeks...
Our boy can pull up, cruise, and crawl now. Anyone else out there have a kid who could walk before he had teeth? That just seems strange to me.
Also, for those checking in on my Mom...she's officially (again) cancer free. She went to Vanderbilt last week and had her "enlarged mediastinal lymph nodes" biopsied and guess what?? They were simply enlarged because of her two lobectomies. We knew this was a possibility but thought it an outside chance. Looks like we should have believed. You'd think we'd be used to believing in the unlikely, being Saints fans and all. Speaking of Saints....first game tonight! Whoop whoop! It's amazing how short the off season seems when your team plays in the final game of the season.
Our boy can pull up, cruise, and crawl now. Anyone else out there have a kid who could walk before he had teeth? That just seems strange to me.
Also, for those checking in on my Mom...she's officially (again) cancer free. She went to Vanderbilt last week and had her "enlarged mediastinal lymph nodes" biopsied and guess what?? They were simply enlarged because of her two lobectomies. We knew this was a possibility but thought it an outside chance. Looks like we should have believed. You'd think we'd be used to believing in the unlikely, being Saints fans and all. Speaking of Saints....first game tonight! Whoop whoop! It's amazing how short the off season seems when your team plays in the final game of the season.
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Body Parts
Just a little photo shoot with my boy in the hopes of never forgetting the little baby parts that make him mine.
Those legs. Oh, those legs. This close-up would be a right thigh. He's actually not that big of a baby and usually falls in the 50% range for his age based on weight. However, those thighs are pure fatty goodness. I could pinch on them all day. He even has fat on the front of his leg. We call it his "knee pads."
The hair? He got from his Daddy (or was it Granna?) At first, we thought the wild mane came from his Dad. However, since my Mom's hair has started growing back after chemo and revealed a plethora of cowlicks, we aren't sold it's Daddy's fault. I call this his "Hurricane Katrina cowlick." I mean check out that rotation.
Those fat hands. They are constantly reaching for something. I have long fingers, good for basketball and such. His Dad's are short and fat, good for...um....massaging my back. Yeah. Anyway, the boy's got his Daddy's hands. Hope he likes soccer because a basketball star is not likely in the cards.
Chin decor... There's always something hanging on that little fat chin. It might be spit, carrots, pears, milk, etc. but it's always something. It's like a dog's tongue. If it ain't wet, he's probably sick.
Those yummy cheeks. I've often wondered if he had a "kiss counter" attached to them what the tally would be daily. Who would kiss him the most when I'm working? His Dad? Grandma Patty? His total has got to be in the millions already. Oh the things those cheeks have seen.
Those legs. Oh, those legs. This close-up would be a right thigh. He's actually not that big of a baby and usually falls in the 50% range for his age based on weight. However, those thighs are pure fatty goodness. I could pinch on them all day. He even has fat on the front of his leg. We call it his "knee pads."
The hair? He got from his Daddy (or was it Granna?) At first, we thought the wild mane came from his Dad. However, since my Mom's hair has started growing back after chemo and revealed a plethora of cowlicks, we aren't sold it's Daddy's fault. I call this his "Hurricane Katrina cowlick." I mean check out that rotation.
Those fat hands. They are constantly reaching for something. I have long fingers, good for basketball and such. His Dad's are short and fat, good for...um....massaging my back. Yeah. Anyway, the boy's got his Daddy's hands. Hope he likes soccer because a basketball star is not likely in the cards.
Chin decor... There's always something hanging on that little fat chin. It might be spit, carrots, pears, milk, etc. but it's always something. It's like a dog's tongue. If it ain't wet, he's probably sick.
Those yummy cheeks. I've often wondered if he had a "kiss counter" attached to them what the tally would be daily. Who would kiss him the most when I'm working? His Dad? Grandma Patty? His total has got to be in the millions already. Oh the things those cheeks have seen.
Mom
For those of you that don't keep up with my Mom's caringbridge site...
After 29 days of believing this monster named cancer was gone, we got confirmation that there were about 5 "enlarged mediastinal lymph nodes." This is basically medical jargon for, "Crap, the cancer is likely back and has now spread to her lymph system." We met with Mom's oncologist in Oxford a few weeks ago and he recommended biopsies. So there she and Bert go again to Vanderbilt. She will have a bronchoscopy (camera down her throat) to visualize and biopsy the nodes. Ugh.
It's crazy for me to imagine a life without my Mom. We talk several times a day. She is the model of the Mother that I want to be and, with her gentle guidance, think I have been in Everett's 9 months. She is the most influential person in my life. Literally, from when I was born and she gave birth to 9 lb, 8 oz ME with no drugs. She claimed"it wasn't so bad." Thus, began my quest to labor drug free. While Ev was 7 lb, 5 oz, it was the most beautiful 10 hours of my entire life and I would do it again in a heartbeat. She kissed all of my bobos and spanked me when I deserved it (yes, Mom, I DID deserve it.) I can't imagine my children (future, god willing, and present) not knowing her. The tears have dried since the most current news as they always do. I cry for days and question how the body can lose so much water and not just shrivel up. Then, we accept the news and come up with the next plan. This is the bearable part...having a plan. Please keep my Mom and Bert in your prayers tomorrow as we start another phase of this horrible journey.
Monday, July 19, 2010
10 things...
We've had quite a draining few weeks in the Watts' household so I've been thinking of 10 things I am especially thankful for today. I encourage you to do the same!
1. My son is 8 1/2 months old and still does not have a tooth in his head. Why am I thankful for this? I still nurse him about 3 times a day and, since before he was born, have been dreading that first bite.
2. My Mom is alive today. It's been a roller coaster 18 months and it isn't over yet but, for today, she's alive and well...and did I mention that she just closed on a house 1.5 miles from me? Whoop whoop. Driving to Oxford was getting old since Everett can make it exactly 2 hours in the car before totally losing it and Oxford is right at 2 1/2. Not a fun last half hour.
3. My husband, my Homie. We met under the strangest of circumstances but he is the most perfect person for me.
4. The hours 8pm-10pm. I love my boy but I totally cherish when he crashes around 8pm every night. Wade and I have two hours of quiet bliss. We can have a glass of wine and talk, watch TV, or even hang from the chandeliers. The world is our oyster...for two hours.
5. My Dad is finally getting his house built on his land. I am ridiculous proud of him. He's been planning this for 3 years and is finally making his dreams come true.
6. My in-laws. You know, I've realized not many people are crazy about their in-laws. I love mine almost as much as my own parents. They are so wonderful to me and treat me like their own. Also, I am so thankful for the way they raised their boy to be the man he is to me, Dad he is to my son.
7. The heat. Yep, I said it. I love summer so much. I hate cold. During the winter, I always tell God that I'll never complain about the heat if he'll just make winter shorter and milder. During the summer, when it's 100+ for 12 days straight, I keep my little mouth closed and thank God for the sun. I think, "It could be worse. It could be 31 degrees."
8. This sounds so lame but I am thankful for Facebook. I live 3 hours from most of my family. I love that I can keep up with my cousin's day-to-day activities. Before, we would see each other about twice a year and they always felt like lovable strangers. Now, I know that my cousin's middle boy, Carson, graduated from kindergarten and saw the adorable pics to prove it. I would have never seen that a few years ago.
9. My job. Oh, don't get me started on how much I love my job. I'm an RN in the Pediatric ICU at Batson and have been for over 8 years now. It is what I was born to do. This sounds so strange but I LOVE to be the support to families going through the worst times in their lives. I leave most days feeling like I eased a little of the pain they were going through. Plus--you should hear some of the stories I have witnessed over the years. Here's a nugget from last week:
Me: Oh I love your baby's chunky legs! (as I squeezed on those adorable baby fat legs. you know the ones.)
Mom: Yeah, he got those from my Mom. She got fat thighs. (Dad nodded in agreement beside her but kept his trap shut.)
Niiiiccceee.
10. My gym nursery. It took me over 6 months to get okay leaving Everett there but, now, oh the freedom! I can go work out for 2 hours without a care in the world. It's especially nice now that it's so hot outside (not that I'm complaining) but it was getting almost impossible to run in 100 degree weather. Not to mention, I didn't want to take Rhett out in that heat.
This is just 10, not my top 10. God's up there somewhere but he needs no elaboration. What are 10 things you're thankful for today?
1. My son is 8 1/2 months old and still does not have a tooth in his head. Why am I thankful for this? I still nurse him about 3 times a day and, since before he was born, have been dreading that first bite.
2. My Mom is alive today. It's been a roller coaster 18 months and it isn't over yet but, for today, she's alive and well...and did I mention that she just closed on a house 1.5 miles from me? Whoop whoop. Driving to Oxford was getting old since Everett can make it exactly 2 hours in the car before totally losing it and Oxford is right at 2 1/2. Not a fun last half hour.
3. My husband, my Homie. We met under the strangest of circumstances but he is the most perfect person for me.
4. The hours 8pm-10pm. I love my boy but I totally cherish when he crashes around 8pm every night. Wade and I have two hours of quiet bliss. We can have a glass of wine and talk, watch TV, or even hang from the chandeliers. The world is our oyster...for two hours.
5. My Dad is finally getting his house built on his land. I am ridiculous proud of him. He's been planning this for 3 years and is finally making his dreams come true.
6. My in-laws. You know, I've realized not many people are crazy about their in-laws. I love mine almost as much as my own parents. They are so wonderful to me and treat me like their own. Also, I am so thankful for the way they raised their boy to be the man he is to me, Dad he is to my son.
7. The heat. Yep, I said it. I love summer so much. I hate cold. During the winter, I always tell God that I'll never complain about the heat if he'll just make winter shorter and milder. During the summer, when it's 100+ for 12 days straight, I keep my little mouth closed and thank God for the sun. I think, "It could be worse. It could be 31 degrees."
8. This sounds so lame but I am thankful for Facebook. I live 3 hours from most of my family. I love that I can keep up with my cousin's day-to-day activities. Before, we would see each other about twice a year and they always felt like lovable strangers. Now, I know that my cousin's middle boy, Carson, graduated from kindergarten and saw the adorable pics to prove it. I would have never seen that a few years ago.
9. My job. Oh, don't get me started on how much I love my job. I'm an RN in the Pediatric ICU at Batson and have been for over 8 years now. It is what I was born to do. This sounds so strange but I LOVE to be the support to families going through the worst times in their lives. I leave most days feeling like I eased a little of the pain they were going through. Plus--you should hear some of the stories I have witnessed over the years. Here's a nugget from last week:
Me: Oh I love your baby's chunky legs! (as I squeezed on those adorable baby fat legs. you know the ones.)
Mom: Yeah, he got those from my Mom. She got fat thighs. (Dad nodded in agreement beside her but kept his trap shut.)
Niiiiccceee.
10. My gym nursery. It took me over 6 months to get okay leaving Everett there but, now, oh the freedom! I can go work out for 2 hours without a care in the world. It's especially nice now that it's so hot outside (not that I'm complaining) but it was getting almost impossible to run in 100 degree weather. Not to mention, I didn't want to take Rhett out in that heat.
This is just 10, not my top 10. God's up there somewhere but he needs no elaboration. What are 10 things you're thankful for today?
Thursday, June 17, 2010
Seven
Our boy is seven months old and scary close to crawling. Ugh. How did this...
happen so fast?
Zerbert=blowing on baby's belly/side/anywhere else that might be ticklish that day, baby laughing hysterically, Mom snapping pictures furiously, rinse & repeat. Why does this never get old?
happen so fast?
Zerbert=blowing on baby's belly/side/anywhere else that might be ticklish that day, baby laughing hysterically, Mom snapping pictures furiously, rinse & repeat. Why does this never get old?
Friday, May 21, 2010
Rhett's Freezer
This is just ridiculous...
The top shelf would be the result of a Marathon Baby Food Making Day Wednesday. My dear friend, Mollie, came over and held my Boy so that I could focus on peeling, steaming, and food processing. I now have over 50 servings of pears, apples, zucchini, carrots, squash, peas, green beans, and sweet potatoes. I did all this in under 3 hours and for around $20. Not too shabby. The bottom shelf is only God knows how many packages of breast milk. Since Everett's eating 2 meals a day now, I have alot more to save. Also, I'm having surgery in July and can't feed him for at least 2 days. I'm not supposed to hold him for 2 weeks after either. We still have 6 months until my year goal. Thus, I'm now a breastmilk hoarder.
Thursday, May 13, 2010
Baptisms, Tornadoes, and sitting up
Here are a few pics from recent (major) events in our family...
Everett's Baptism...
We were delighted to have our two FAVE preachers involved in Everett's baptism. These two are really important to us because they have helped our family through so many things. Richard (on the right) was my preacher in high school. He was the solid rock during my crazy senior year and was usually one of the first persons at my side during the hard stuff. Eight years later, I asked him to be a part of the happiest day in my life (since he'd helped me through the worst days), November 11, 2005...the day I married my Homet. He also did all of our pre-marriage counseling. Two years later, we joined his church in Madison, Parkway Hills UMC. He will retire this summer which saddens me deeply but makes me happy for him. The one on the left is my one and only stepdad, Bert. He's married to my Mom and is the other preacher that married Wade and I. I don't even know where to start in how much he means to us. He's already retired but came out of retirement this one day to baptize his grandboy.
Don't know why my eyes are closed. Maybe I was praying that Everett wouldn't throw up on Richard's pretty robe.
Dad's new barn. He just completed this project about 8 months ago. There was only half a wall standing.
Fragile, yeah right. Gwendy had started moving her china and dishes to the barn since they had already almost filled a storage unit.
Dad's "home." His bedroom and closet was to the right. This is what his neighbor saw when he thought my dad had been home. You can see why he thought he'd find a body. Dad's future home site is on the hill in the background. Another blessing is they hadn't started to build yet.
My uncle's camper was parked there too. They were supposed to start on the home this week and my Uncle was going to live down here (from TN) to help build.
Our 6 month old boy is sitting up unassisted which scares me. Why, you ask? Guess what's next?...crawling. NOOOO! Wish he'd stay small forever. At his 6 month check-up, he was 50% (17 pounds, 4 ounces) in weight again and 75% in length (27 inches).
Everett's Baptism...
We were delighted to have our two FAVE preachers involved in Everett's baptism. These two are really important to us because they have helped our family through so many things. Richard (on the right) was my preacher in high school. He was the solid rock during my crazy senior year and was usually one of the first persons at my side during the hard stuff. Eight years later, I asked him to be a part of the happiest day in my life (since he'd helped me through the worst days), November 11, 2005...the day I married my Homet. He also did all of our pre-marriage counseling. Two years later, we joined his church in Madison, Parkway Hills UMC. He will retire this summer which saddens me deeply but makes me happy for him. The one on the left is my one and only stepdad, Bert. He's married to my Mom and is the other preacher that married Wade and I. I don't even know where to start in how much he means to us. He's already retired but came out of retirement this one day to baptize his grandboy.
Don't know why my eyes are closed. Maybe I was praying that Everett wouldn't throw up on Richard's pretty robe.
Rook's fan club!
The next day, we found this at Dad's land. This was the path of the 2 mile wide tornado.
The next day, we found this at Dad's land. This was the path of the 2 mile wide tornado.
Dad's new barn. He just completed this project about 8 months ago. There was only half a wall standing.
Fragile, yeah right. Gwendy had started moving her china and dishes to the barn since they had already almost filled a storage unit.
Dad's "home." His bedroom and closet was to the right. This is what his neighbor saw when he thought my dad had been home. You can see why he thought he'd find a body. Dad's future home site is on the hill in the background. Another blessing is they hadn't started to build yet.
My uncle's camper was parked there too. They were supposed to start on the home this week and my Uncle was going to live down here (from TN) to help build.
Our 6 month old boy is sitting up unassisted which scares me. Why, you ask? Guess what's next?...crawling. NOOOO! Wish he'd stay small forever. At his 6 month check-up, he was 50% (17 pounds, 4 ounces) in weight again and 75% in length (27 inches).
Monday, May 3, 2010
Life
I will never apologize for not blogging because I have been too caught up living life to actually sit down and type about what we're doing. So if you're one of these Generation Y people that gets their feelings hurt because you aren't coddled nearly enough...here's a snapshot of our life in the last 3 weeks since my last blog:
--Rhett attended his first and second crawfish boil. We were eternally grateful for the first because it was at my Dad's land and I'll get to that. We fished, ate, laughed, and planted 5 magnolia trees symbolizing Dad's grandkids (Rhett has two step cousins--the other two trees don't have kiddos attached to them yet but we're holding out that their will actually be two more. If not, Dad figured he'd plant a few extra in case a couple die, the kids won't think "their" tree died...He'll just reassign who's tree is whom's.) It's called Grand Avenue and is fabulous.
--Dad finally married my wonderful stepmom, Gwendy, after 10 YEARS of being together. We are super fired up about it being official now. In fact, I dropped them off at the train station this morning so that they could begin their honeymoon trip to NOLA!
--Dad's land got destroyed by the tornado. This was quite a surreal experience and one I wouldn't wish on anyone. Dad has worked on this land for over 5 years now and all his blood, sweat, and tears has poured into it. See Dad's a bit of a minimalist and when he sold his Vicksburg house after being on the market one day (during the housing slump), he didn't really have a living situation back-up plan. Thus, he moved to his camper on his land in Ebenezer. He has finally finalized house plans and was supposed to begin last week. The camper is in pieces as is my uncle's who had left his there (he lives in TN) because he was going to help Dad build. Both barns were nearly destroyed. One of which he just finished building about 8 months ago. His canoe that he's had since he was a teenager was found hugging a tree about 15 feet up and riddled with holes. The hundred year old trees....don't even get me started. Luckily, Dad was in Oregon on business. His neighbor came to check on him and told Dad, "I'm glad to get in touch with you. I walked into your place, took one look around, and turned on my heel to head back to my place. I just knew if I even tried to look, I'd have found your body." Ugh. PS--Grand Avenue survived because the trees were so small! Glass half full.
--Rhett was baptized the day after the storm and we had so much to be thankful for. Namely that we were celebrating a baptism instead of burying his Paw Paw.
--Mom retired from the Ole Miss School of Nursing after over 20 years. She's now a full-time grandma and we are all happy about it.
--The last three weeks, Everett has been waking up a few times a night to eat which he hasn't done since about 2 months. Let me tell you, it's one thing to wake up and function several times a night when on maternity leave. Everyone expects you to be in a fog. However, when I have to wake up and work a 12 hour shift the next day, it's almost scary. Thank God I only work 2 days a week or there would be some serious kid's lives at risk.
--E got his 6 month shots and check up. He's 17 pounds, 4 ounces (50%). He's 27 inches long (75%).
Anyway, that's all that's going on here. I'm not even going to try to download pics because I'm flat out exhausted. To you Generation Yers--will try to update sooner next time. To Generation Xers--don't hold your breath.
--Rhett attended his first and second crawfish boil. We were eternally grateful for the first because it was at my Dad's land and I'll get to that. We fished, ate, laughed, and planted 5 magnolia trees symbolizing Dad's grandkids (Rhett has two step cousins--the other two trees don't have kiddos attached to them yet but we're holding out that their will actually be two more. If not, Dad figured he'd plant a few extra in case a couple die, the kids won't think "their" tree died...He'll just reassign who's tree is whom's.) It's called Grand Avenue and is fabulous.
--Dad finally married my wonderful stepmom, Gwendy, after 10 YEARS of being together. We are super fired up about it being official now. In fact, I dropped them off at the train station this morning so that they could begin their honeymoon trip to NOLA!
--Dad's land got destroyed by the tornado. This was quite a surreal experience and one I wouldn't wish on anyone. Dad has worked on this land for over 5 years now and all his blood, sweat, and tears has poured into it. See Dad's a bit of a minimalist and when he sold his Vicksburg house after being on the market one day (during the housing slump), he didn't really have a living situation back-up plan. Thus, he moved to his camper on his land in Ebenezer. He has finally finalized house plans and was supposed to begin last week. The camper is in pieces as is my uncle's who had left his there (he lives in TN) because he was going to help Dad build. Both barns were nearly destroyed. One of which he just finished building about 8 months ago. His canoe that he's had since he was a teenager was found hugging a tree about 15 feet up and riddled with holes. The hundred year old trees....don't even get me started. Luckily, Dad was in Oregon on business. His neighbor came to check on him and told Dad, "I'm glad to get in touch with you. I walked into your place, took one look around, and turned on my heel to head back to my place. I just knew if I even tried to look, I'd have found your body." Ugh. PS--Grand Avenue survived because the trees were so small! Glass half full.
--Rhett was baptized the day after the storm and we had so much to be thankful for. Namely that we were celebrating a baptism instead of burying his Paw Paw.
--Mom retired from the Ole Miss School of Nursing after over 20 years. She's now a full-time grandma and we are all happy about it.
--The last three weeks, Everett has been waking up a few times a night to eat which he hasn't done since about 2 months. Let me tell you, it's one thing to wake up and function several times a night when on maternity leave. Everyone expects you to be in a fog. However, when I have to wake up and work a 12 hour shift the next day, it's almost scary. Thank God I only work 2 days a week or there would be some serious kid's lives at risk.
--E got his 6 month shots and check up. He's 17 pounds, 4 ounces (50%). He's 27 inches long (75%).
Anyway, that's all that's going on here. I'm not even going to try to download pics because I'm flat out exhausted. To you Generation Yers--will try to update sooner next time. To Generation Xers--don't hold your breath.
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Yumm-o Pears
Disclaimer for those of you wanting to make your own baby food and think that I'm some kind of super Betty Crocker for doing so---(I've gotten alot of comments on the squash post.)
Making baby food is SUPER easy. It's so not hard that I almost feel silly saying I'm making it. I've "made" squash, pears, carrots, bananas, and avocado and the most steps I've had to do is about 3. It's also way cheaper which, for those of you that know me, is big. I'm a bit of a penny pincher/cheap/Boxcar Willy but who's counting? The only disadvantage is the convenience with traveling which we do alot. It would probably be easier to just grab a jar for most people. However, if we're going somewhere I wouldn't feel comfortable pulling myself out to feed Rhett, I just pump before I leave and could easily put his food containers in the cold pack with the bottle. I'm not really sure how formula works but I guess you have to have a cold pack with you for those bottles? Wait...aren't they powder too? OK, maybe not. I digress...
So pears has turned out to be his favorite food yet. I'm not a huge pear fan. Something about the grainy texture kinda weirds me out. Anyway, the beauty of a pear is he likes it cold. I have discovered that he likes most things slightly warmed. I can serve the pears straight out the fridge. He also likes them mixed in rice cereal or oatmeal. The boy loves him a pear. Here are the steps and I'm telling you people, it's easy peasy so I won't even call it "making baby food" anymore. I'll call it...hmmm...any suggestions? I get such a bad rap for saying making baby food, I've gotta figure some other way to put it. Maybe I'll just keep my mouth shut and jar up his homemade baby food. That way I just don't have to hear it.
I used 3 pears and it made about 7 2-oz. servings.
Slice them up, roughly the same size and cut out the core remnants. Put the slices in a pot to steam. I, honestly, can't remember how long I steamed them. Just do it until they are easy to stab with a fork.
Peel off the skins...
I skipped a step in pics but you then Cuisinart them. I've found it purees better if you mash with a potato masher then Cuisinart them. Here's your pears.
Here's Everett dive bombing his pears. He does this arm out, mouth open thing for every bite. Is that normal? Wade contemplated how we'd all look if we all ate like that. Talk about people watching at restaurants.
Sunday, April 4, 2010
Easter Arts
Project #1
This was one that Everett and I told noone about (for those of you who know me, that's a big deal.) Anyway, we wanted to send a few cards to the Grandparents, Aunts, and Uncles so we made these cards a few weeks ago. I searched online for Easter hand/footprint ideas but all I found was these lame thumbprint chicks. My son's thumb print is about as big as a pin top so I didn't really think I could make a chick out of that. I brainstormed and came up with these cards. I'm no artist so I was pleasantly surprised that they even resembled bunnies. Here's what you need (which you probably have most of these things lying around the house--maybe not lying around the house but if you have an art box, definately in there. or maybe you're messy and do have paintbrushes lying around your house. anywho...) Michael's or Hobby Lobby sells the blank cards.
Then, you need two of these adorable little things...
And here's the final result. Write a sweet message inside like Happy Easter (Hoppy Easter gets on my nerves for some reason?) and there you have it.
This was one that Everett and I told noone about (for those of you who know me, that's a big deal.) Anyway, we wanted to send a few cards to the Grandparents, Aunts, and Uncles so we made these cards a few weeks ago. I searched online for Easter hand/footprint ideas but all I found was these lame thumbprint chicks. My son's thumb print is about as big as a pin top so I didn't really think I could make a chick out of that. I brainstormed and came up with these cards. I'm no artist so I was pleasantly surprised that they even resembled bunnies. Here's what you need (which you probably have most of these things lying around the house--maybe not lying around the house but if you have an art box, definately in there. or maybe you're messy and do have paintbrushes lying around your house. anywho...) Michael's or Hobby Lobby sells the blank cards.
Then, you need two of these adorable little things...
And here's the final result. Write a sweet message inside like Happy Easter (Hoppy Easter gets on my nerves for some reason?) and there you have it.
Project #2:
Mom came last week and we completed (read: I forced her) Project Easter Basket Liner. Mom wanted to just order a basket with liner from Pottery Barn kids but I refused. I had this fab basket and wanted Everett's monogram on it somewhere. Mom has all the equipment so my strong, willing stepdad lugged all this stuff down from Oxford so that we wouldn't have to lug all of Everett's stuff to Oxford. This is the original basket with some blue seersucker material and all those navy bags are sewing maching, embroidery machine, etc.
Here's the finished project. All that candy for a 4 month old? Don't judge. The Easter Bunny gave up sweets for Lent and anticipated being sick on chocolate for a few days. Hope everyone has a Happy Easter weekend!
Thursday, April 1, 2010
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
When thumbs just won't do...
My boy had a craving for something a little fleshy, warm, stinky, and ambitiously hard to attain. This is what he ended up with...
The toe-suckin' phase has descended upon the Watts' household.
Sunday, March 28, 2010
Butternut Squash
I have wanted to make baby food for my children since...well, since before I actually had children. I love to cook. I love babies. Why not try my hand in baby food cooking? Plus, why are the jarred bananas pink? Ugh. My friend Mollie knew this and got me this fabulous cookbook for Christmas. After the rice cereal was eaten and accepted, it was time for solids(ish). First up...butternut squash. I've never even eaten butternut squash but my child does have quite the refined palate (or it was recommended as a first food.) Anyway, it was totally easy and actually quite delish. Here's what they started out looking like... (looks like a gourd, eh?)
Then, cut in half, scrape out the pumpkin-like insides and bake. Everett's not so sure...
After baking a while, scrape out the insides and you end up with this orange mess o' stuff.
Then the mini Cuisinart (I added about a Tbsp. breast milk to thin it a bit. Just enough to make it thinner but not so much that I didn't want to gag when I tried the squash with MY OWN BM in it.)
And, voila! Yummy.
I know he's acting like he's not quite sure but he totally loved them. He's such a poser.
Then, cut in half, scrape out the pumpkin-like insides and bake. Everett's not so sure...
After baking a while, scrape out the insides and you end up with this orange mess o' stuff.
Then the mini Cuisinart (I added about a Tbsp. breast milk to thin it a bit. Just enough to make it thinner but not so much that I didn't want to gag when I tried the squash with MY OWN BM in it.)
And, voila! Yummy.
I know he's acting like he's not quite sure but he totally loved them. He's such a poser.
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