Us

A Few Things.......

2009-11-11T19:20:00.000-08:00

We went to Cabelas this weekend. Normally I avoid Cabelas on the weekend. It is a zoo! However I bought a pair of shoes and I wanted to exchange them for some different ones and i could not be patient and wait for Monday. All went well except for the LONG wait in a line that only had 3 people in it. I knew Reed would start crying for a bottle any minute. I just wanted to get out of there and get to the car to feed him. That didn't happen. I had to start feeding him while waiting. After checking out I decided that I would just sit on a bench outside finish taking care of Reed and let River people watch. As soon as I sat down and got a bottle going for Reed, River says " I have to go pee." I tell him he has to wait until I am done and we will go inside. he seems OK with this. After a bit he stars climbing around behind the bench. I keep saying get out from there, it's dirty blah, blah, blah. Of course River doesn't answer because he is busy peeing. When I finally look back there to see what is going on, all I see is a stream of pee! I just looked away and concentrated on Reed pretending I was still clueless. River comes out and announces, proud as can be " I'm all done now." Before we leave I notice pee running from behind the bench out to the side walk! What's a Mom to do?

Last night I got brave enough to take both kids out for a semi sit down dinner. We went to Doby's Pizza. Just a small, mostly take out place. While we were waiting for pizza, I tell River how I notice how much Reed likes to watch him. River started playing with his straw and laughing and Reed just kept busting out with big, long laughs at River. It was cracking us up. It ended up being a fun time and I enjoyed being out with my kids.

Yesterday River and I got our H1N1 vaccines. We got the nose mist. I felt a little run down today but am better tonite. River seems fine. He needs a second dose in 30 days. Reed is still at risk but less so if River and I are protected. I am so glad to have had this done. It opens some doors for getting out and about again. Story time here we come!!!

Reed is changing so much so quickly. He can sorta sit on his own. Can sometimes get himself unstuck from being on his tummy. Today I noticed that while he was on his tummy he was really trying to get his knees under him. He even got on his toes with his butt in the air. He loves to watch the world around him. So much so that it can be hard to get him to take a bottle, he gets so involved in checking things out. He is so cute and it goes so fast. I can't believe it.

October

2009-11-09T21:38:00.000-08:00

October turned out to me a much less pleasant month. Thanks to the swine flu or H1N1 or what ever you want to call it. After my babysitter came down with a case of the regular flu the day after watching the kids, I decided it was best to keep the kids at home as much as possible. So there went our nice little routine. No more mall, story time or babysitters. Reed started teething too!

On more positive note Reed learned to do so much! At the beginning of the month he gave out his first real, hardy, full fledged laugh. It was at river and very cute. He learned to roll over from front to back and began to try to sit on his own. Reed is no longer content to just sit and look at his toys. He wants to move. To bad he gets "stuck" on his tummy and can't do complete rolls yet. He is still very sweet and easy to cheer up.

River seemed to have a more difficult time and I think Brian being gone started to take a toll on him for a time.

With the monotony of being at home so much the days start to flow together but we did have Halloween to look forward too. Papa and Grandma went to the pumpkin patch with us. River did all the rides, the carousel, train, big slide and pony rides. As always, he loved riding the tractor out to get pumpkins. I guess he is getting older though. He was actually interested in getting pumpkins instead of just getting back on the tractor. Papa helped River carve his pumpkins and we trick or treated with Aunt Lori, Uncle Jeremy and the cousins. Fortunately we had no rain the whole evening. I have to say, the best thing about River, he gets one piece of candy and he is so happy about it we could be done. After going to a few doors he did start to get it and he had a great time. Reed enjoyed a little snooze in his stroller but he looked so cute in his pumpkin outfit.

September

2009-11-09T20:04:00.000-08:00

The first month of Brian's deployment went surprisingly well. The month flew by after working out a few kinks. I realized that I would need some time to myself and time to get things done. I had my sister watch them one afternoon a week and a very wonderful babysitter come in one morning a week. We also figured out a routine that worked well. I thought it would help River to adjust to Brian being gone if he had an activity to keep him busy. I signed him up for Tae Kwon Do. I thought he would enjoy it as he liked to play "ruff and tuff" so much. I thought wrong. He was very very unsure and shy. I could not get him to go out and participate let alone even look at the instructors. After 2 tries I gave up. The point was to do something fun and neither one of us was having fun. So, we went to the mall play area once a week, did story time and played outside. Before dinner I spent time playing with the boys. The boys would lay on the floor and I would tickle them and stuff. Reed is turning out to be a very sweet, good natured boy. This month we started to see his personality emerge. Lots of smiles. He is content to lay under his baby gym and look up at his toys.

Farewell to Brian

2009-09-11T21:45:00.000-07:00

These pictures were taken the morning Brian left for Iraq. A sad day but we all fared well, we knew it was coming. We are making the best of it. We know we have to think about the good of each day. It has been great that we have been able to see each other via skype twice a day or at least talk on the phone every morning and night. River seems to be having a hard time with all of the changes going on lately but over all I think he is doing OK. He is my special big boy. Reed is turning out to be a very easy going little baby. He is super sweet and loves to interact with people. He has the cutest smile and his baby vocabulary is growing. I am sooo tired from getting up with hi at nite but I do enjoy the alone time with him. I also LOVE to carry him around in his sling/carrier. It keeps him close and happy and I can still interact with River.

Last Camping Trip of the Season

2009-09-11T21:26:00.000-07:00

Brian was able to take a few days off before he had to leave to Iraq. We planned to stay around the house and enjoy being a family. Over the weekend my parents went to Westport. Come Friday evening Brain and I, in the middle of cooking out, decided we just had to take one last trip to the coast. After taking entirely to long to pack (what were we thinking?) with a baby to care for and multiple wrestling matches with Reed's infant car seat we were on our way. It started pouring rain on our way out. To say the least it was a rough start. However we ended up having a great time. We didn't get to do a whole lot. We spent a lot of time caring for Reed, but it was great to have a change of scenery and get out of the same old routine. We had a BBQ with my family on Saturday and Reed spent lots of time being passed around and admired. River had fun playing with Papa and getting treats from Grandma. On Sunday we were able to spend some alone time with River. We took him to breakfast and then spent some time on the beach. He has so much fun on the beach and I could tell he was eating up the individual attention.

Long Overdue Update

2009-08-24T20:55:00.000-07:00

Reed has made it into the world and is now 6 weeks old. My labor was induced 7/13 at around 7: am and Reed was here just before 12:00 pm. It all went very quick. I hardly pushed and he was ready to meet us. I actually had to wait (no pushing) for the Doctor to get in to deliver him. Brian said it was only a couple of minutes but to me it felt much longer. I had an epidural but still felt quite a bit. Once it was all over I felt NO pain!! I am lucky. I did get sick to my stomach from the epidural and I was so tired. River stayed with my Mom and Dad and they brought him to meet his new brother. He liked him right away and wanted to hold and carry him. When it was time for him to leave he left happily with Grandma and Grandpa.

I have to admit the first 2 weeks were rough!!! I had lots of help adjusting to having 2 kids from Brian and my family. Brian stayed home a couple days. My sister took me to our first pediatrician apt. My Mom and Dad came up and Brian took River to work an afternoon or morning here and there. I had been sick with a bad cold before delivering and was just so tired. Reed cried alot. I was breast feeding and he seemed to want to eat all day, like every 20 min for over an hour at a time. Turns out he was not getting enough milk. At his 2 week check he had not regained his birth weight. He started getting formula and was really a different, happy, relaxed little guy. However that was the begining of the end for breastfeeding. I never could make enough milk no matter how I tried and Reed stopped sucking hard enough. We made it for a solid 5 weeks with what I had.

For Reed's third week of life we had a visit from Papa Jim. We all had a nice time. Papa Jim spent lots of time holding baby and playing "ruff and tuff" with River. I think Reed spent all his sleeping moments on Papa's chest! We got out to see some of the local sights like Tumwater Falls Park and Percival Landing. We had a nice breakfast at Budd Bay Cafe. We even made it to both Mt Rainier and Lake Cushman, with our trip to MT Rianier being the highlight. We miss Papa Jim and wish that he lived close by so he could drop in and visit more often.

Since then we have been slowly getting back to life as normal. River LOVES being a big brother. He wants to squeeze Reed's hands and feet out of love but I have to keep him from being to rough. He also loves to rest his head on his brother as a way of hugging. Again I have to prevent him from "hugging" to hard. I think it is a bit hard for him to understand. He has been a bit defiant but I can not tell if it is because he is adjusting to having a sibling or he is just three. In the midst of it all he now rides his bike without training wheels!! Brian had raised them up a few months back and decided to just take them off before he leaves for Iraq. He is so proud of himself now. Reed is starting to really show some personality. He smiles big smiles at us and he coos, goos and gaga's a little more everyday. He is starting to fall into a bit of a pattern for sleeping and eating making it easier for me to develop a routine for all of us. It was a bit of a rough start but I am really starting to enjoy being a Mom of 2, in fact I wouldn't mind having another at some point.

River's Birthday

2009-04-09T20:41:00.000-07:00

River had his third birthday April 1st. We had a small family party with just Grandparent's and Aunt, Uncle and Cousins. We had a pinata with candy and stickers and everyone got River great gifts. He was so excited to have his party and played so hard with his cousins. He waited patiently to eat his cake and blew out the candles before we even started singing Happy Birthday. He had a great day. Our baby is definitely a little boy now. He is still as cute as ever and getting even cuter!

2009-03-16T08:50:00.000-07:00

It snowed again yesterday morning. It was was coming down hard. It was sticking but also melting at the same time. It is now 9 am and 36 degrees outside. I think that I have convinced myself that summer is just a fantasy.

ARGH!!!

2009-03-10T21:57:00.000-07:00

The last 2 days we have woke up to snow. It melts off everyday. Record cold. The daffodils and Lily's are trying to come up. I am tired of cold and am ready for Spring. Enough already!

It's a Boy!

2009-03-02T08:16:00.000-08:00

I had my ultrasound on Wednesday. Brian went with me. Our little guy looks great and is developing well. He was about 11 oz. Average is anywhere from 10 -12 oz. The technician was trying to keep us in suspense for as long as possible but while we were looking at a side view his penis just plopped down and it was obvious to us all that it was a boy. We would have been happy with a healthy baby of any sex but we were also hoping for a boy. Today I am now 20 weeks and 1 day along. I have been able to feel baby move since about 16 weeks but the last 2 weeks the movements have been much stronger and consistent. I feel him move everyday. Very reassuring. After finding out the sex I became obsessed with deciding on a name. We had the name Darby in mind for either but it just didn't seem right to us anymore. After thinking on it over the weekend we have decided on REED ALEXANDER FIELDS. Now we just have to get ready for his arrival. Can't wait to meet our new little guy.

Cute

2009-02-15T22:19:00.000-08:00

I was going thru our photos and video clips doing some organizing. I came across this. I just had to share. One of my all time favorites. It was taken in Oct or Nov last year.

It's Not Over

2009-02-11T22:56:00.000-08:00

Tuesday we got a little more snow. About two inches. It started melting before the day was done and should be completely gone early Thursday. Better than the snow is River practicing his faces for the camera. He has a mad face and a happy face. He uses them a source of entertainment for us. I guess because we laugh so much when he does it. Also check out our new sled!

Finally....

2009-02-11T21:21:00.000-08:00

First Camping Trip of the Year

Brain had a three day weekend for Columbus Day. We took advantage and headed to Cape Disappointment, our favorite place. We lucked out with some unusually fabulous weather. I think it made it to 60 degrees. It had been so cold it almost felt like 70 degree weather, almost. We had our friends Amaya, Jeremy and their daughter Chaso with us. Chaso is River's age. They had a great time playing together. We all enjoyed taking in taking in the sights, some light hiking and a day trip to Astoria and Cannon Beach.

JUST CUTE

River is growing so much. We put him to bed at night and he seems to change over night. He is getting to be so funny. He makes me laugh all day. He is so sensitive and caring always saying I love you and asking are you happy? He is really starting to hate getting into trouble. He can make the saddest face when he is getting disciplined that melts my heart. Always wanting to give hugs to make me happy again. His imagination is growing, I notice that pretending s something that is starting to be fun for him. We love him so much!! Even though we love to watch him change and grow we can't help but think it happens much to fast. A part of us misses our baby boy.

PRIEST POINT HIKE

New Years Weekend

CHRISTMAS 08

The snow stuck around long enough that we had a white Christmas. My Mom and Dad came up for Christmas Eve and Day. We had our usual spread. Mom was great and did so much of the food prep. Still in my first trimester, I was feeling tired but since I didn't over do it I felt good the whole time. My sister's family came up on Christmas day. We had our neighbors join us for Christmas Eve. Their kids and grand-kids couldn't make it because of the ad roads. River was quite the little host. He took their hands and led them to the food as they walked in. He sat in a chair and tried to sit and act like a big boy. He was so excited for the "party". We tried to do cookies and milk for Santa but he didn't fully get it. Christmas morning wa exciting and you could really see River putting together the concept of Santa. He wanted to open his presents but wanted everyone else to open theirs too. After he unwrapped a present all he wanted to do was open it and play with it.

Long Time...No Post

2009-01-26T19:06:00.000-08:00

Right after Christmas I was feeling pretty tired still. I feel so much better now, but our camera is broken again. I would like to say it's because we have a bad camera but the truth is we are not very good owners. This time we were smart enough to buy insurance on it so I am going to take it in tomorrow. I have Christmas pictures and stories to share. Also a few pics from our first camping trip of the year. We made it back out to Cape Disappointment for a long, fantastic weekend. More to come...soon.

More Snow

2008-12-20T19:46:00.000-08:00

More snow rolled in about 12:00 today. It hasn't stopped yet! We stocked up on a few groceries and spent the afternoon and part of the evening playing in the snow. The air is cold but feels so fresh and everything looks so pretty. As long as the wind doesn't blow to hard we are happy.

Let it Snow

2008-12-19T08:11:00.000-08:00

We love the snow. Two days of snow. We ended up with six + inches and two more days of below freezing temps and then more snow expected. Yay! Brian has been lucky enough to be off work since Wednesday due to Fort Lewis being closed. We have made the most of our snow days playing, drinking hot cocoa, sitting in front of the fire and listening to Christmas music. We are lucky that we did not have to go anywhere and could enjoy it.

Pictures

2008-12-11T19:12:00.000-08:00

We have been working on potty training with River. Actually he has mostly been training himself. He doesn't like to go # 2 in his pull up. Lately it has been taking a long time for him to go so I gave him a book to help things along.

River watching his first Charlie Brown Special. He knew it was a treat to get to stay up late and watch it.

I'm Pregnant!

2008-12-05T19:47:00.000-08:00

Brian and I have known we are expecting or second child for about a month now. Alot of you reading this will already know too, but there it is, the big news. We are, of course, very excited. I have been feeling well. Just an occasional day of nausea and always tired. I am 8 weeks today and see my doctor for my first real appointment on the 15th. I am already starting to form a little pouch. I don't think anyone can notice yet but I do and so does Brian. Here we go again!

Our Weekend

2008-12-01T21:28:00.000-08:00

Before

After

Theese pictures don't really do justice to the fabulous job Brian did. It really does look nice. I guess I may have been in a hurry taking the pix.

We had a wonderful Thanksgiving at my parents house. Turkey dinner with all the trimmings. We also made the most of the long weekend. Our Christmas lights are up. This is the first year we have ever had them up so early. It is usually not a job that Brian relishes but this year he was excited to do it for River. River was so excited to see them up and even had to show them to Papa when he came by. I have been busy making snowflakes that we will hang from the ceiling when we decorate the inside.

On another note, my Dad had some friends of a friend come by to look at finishing up our bathroom. (from the incident this summer) We had only really got the tear out done and Dad and Brian got the bathtub back in and plumbed. They came by on Satburday and tiled the shower surround and floor and sheet rocked and textured the walls. YEAH!! They did a great job, gave us a good deal and best of all we did not have to spend endless weekends doing it ourselves. They started at 10 on Saturday and worked until midnight to get it done in one day. We are happy and relived. We just have to install the shower fixtures, toilet and sink. Too easy! Oh yeah, and paint.

ZOO

2008-11-27T20:27:00.000-08:00

Last Sunday we took River to the zoo. We have taken him once before but he was too young to enjoy it. We all had a fun time and the weather was nice, just a little cool. River loved being at the zoo, walking around and exploring but was really not interested in the animals. Brian and I had high hopes of watching his excitement at the animals. That was not to be. We even got to see them feeding the whales. As we were leaving the aquarium we got to see a shark open it's mouth to let the little fish clean it's teeth. That was very neat and Brian got a great picture. After a quick tour of the animal exhibits and aquarium River played at the kids area. He had a blast. It was good to spend a sunny day outside enjoying each other's company.

First Movie

2008-11-13T22:04:00.000-08:00

Brian had Tuesday off work for Veteran's Day. After getting our new camera we just couldn't make ourselves go back home. It was a grey, rainy day. We decided to go to "The Rock" for pizza. It happens to be right next to the movie theater. In an effort to pass the rainy day Brian suggested that we try to take River to a movie. Madagascar 2 was playing. We got our tickets and got settled in. River seemed to be excited about being there. The previews started and he was amazed. That wore off quickly. Soon, the seats became the most interesting part. In a effort to refocus him Brian took him to get popcorn. He liked that and sat still for about 10 minutes. A bit more restlessness a few attempts by us to point out the movie and now River is most interested in hanging out in the aisle. That didn't last long. He noticed that the theater is sloped and proceeded to run up and down the "hill". We decided it was time to leave. Really, we got through about half the movie and it was more success than we hoped for. Once outside River had a meltdown because he did not want to leave and wanted to watch the movie that he hadn't paid any attention to. I guess he had fun. Brian and I enjoyed ourselves too. It was a fun day and a great distraction from the rain.

Halloween

2008-11-13T21:45:00.000-08:00

Our camera broke at the pumpkin patch. I am waiting to get pictures from family to post. River was the CUTEST scarecrow. He just looked adorable. We had such a fun Halloween. We started the evening by going to our 2 neighbors. River knows all about candy now so he was very interested in getting into his pumpkin to get at the candy. After that we headed to Centralia. Our first stop was to meet Aunt, Uncle and cousins for trick or treat at the outlet mall. There were so may kids dressed up. River was in wide eyed amazement. He was so busy looking around and taking it in that he didn't even care about getting candy. With just a bit of instruction he followed his cousins from store to store to get his candy. He seemed so big! Next stop, Grandma and Papa's for pizza and more tick or treating. After showing off costumes and taking a break for some food we went around the nieghborhood. River was so cute following his cousins and jockeying for position at the door steps. We lucked out with NO rain. It had rained earlier in the day but we had a nice evening and night. We were able to spend more time back at Grandma's and Papa's checking out the loot and just having fun. River fell asleep in the truck on the way home.

October

2008-11-13T21:22:00.000-08:00

Somehow the month of October got away from me. I did manage to take the time to get a few pictures of River.

River has learned to pedal his trike all by himself. He took a few independent pedals while Brian was away in September, but these pictures show his first "real" bike riding.

Aunt Lori's Birthday at the Olympic Club, Centralia

Our visit to the pumpkin patch. We go to Hunter's right down the road. It was a gorgeous day. In addition to getting pumpkins, River got to go on pony rides, a train ride and see the animals. Just like last year his favorite part was riding the tractor to and from the patch.

Big Boy Bed

2008-09-18T21:20:00.001-07:00

We moved River into a twin bed with a bed rail about a month ago. It occurred to me I shouldn't let the event go unannounced. The transition seemed to go pretty easy. He definitely liked his new bed and stayed there for the most part. He has had some practice learning to stay in bed while camping. He has his own bed with bed rail in the camper. Bed time had become a bit of an issue since Daddy has been gone but that should resolve itself with some time or at least when Brian gets back.

The Libray.....Who Knew?

2008-09-18T21:20:00.000-07:00

River has just recently showed an interest in books or an ability to sit still to have one read to him. I began to notice that we have a short supply of really good books to read, so I have been planning a trip to the library. Today was the day. I had no idea picking out books for River would be so fun or exciting! The selection of books seemed almost infinite. The illustrations in kids books are amazing! The subject matter to choose from was impressive. I made sure to get a few books about fall, some good nite books, the standard plane and fireman books, as well as a selection of books centered around nature or animals. We have been to the library many times before but River always seemed to consider this playtime. Today he was able to attempt to play with the other kids while I had all the time I wanted to get him books. He even took some time to look at a few books. I am excited at the thought of all the fun trips we can take to the library and the great times we will have reading new books together.

Labor Day Weekend

2008-09-14T21:06:00.000-07:00

We had the BEST Labor Day weekend. We went to Ilwaco. Spent time at Cape Disappointment and Long Beach too. We had a nice camping spot in the trees. My parents and my sister and her family came also. We had a campfire every nite. Warm days and chilly nites.

Cape Disappointment is one of the most beautiful places ever. We spent time on the beach below the high rock cliffs as well as hiking to lighthouses and enjoying the fantastic views. One of the beaches had tons of driftwood and we had fun exploring all the forts people had made with it. Ilwaco has a nice Farmers market on Saturdays.

Brian and I were were lucky enough to be able to spend an extra day. We spent time relaxing but we also took an amazing little hike to the beach through Beards Hollow. We were rewarded with some of the best beach views. Look at the photo of Brian on the rocks. The weather was warm and there were no crowds. It could not have been more perfect. The last day we packed up and parked the camper at the boardwalk at Long Beach. After getting ice cream, we dug and decorated a big hole in the sand for River. It was fun. It was a great last weekend before Brian took his trip to Germany. We miss him so much especially River.

Long Lake

2008-08-06T20:24:00.000-07:00

My sister and I made one of our many annual trips to the Lake today. We had fun watching and swimming with the kids. We have been doing this ever since River was about 4 months old. We really noticed how much the kids have all grown. River started out in a baby carrier and stroller being completely protected from the sun to wading and playing and being watched by a nervous Mom. Now he wears his life jacket and plays by himself while I relax in the grass. Josie has made progress to. She used to be by the shore or only out with Lori. Now she has a big girl life jacket and swims where she can't touch. Carson too! Carson is beginning to float and swim with no life jacket. He can even jump right off the dock by himself with no fear at all.

2008-08-03T19:50:00.000-07:00

So far we have taken 3 trips in the camper. Two to Westport and one to Lake Quinault rain forest. We had a good time at the rain forest. It was so pretty there. We stayed in a RV park right on the lake with big trees around us. We explored the area and drove all through the woods. We found a great primitive campground along the river that we will picnic at the next time we go. River threw rocks into the river and Foxy caught one in her mouth! She ended up with a broken canine tooth. Happily she's not in pain but I will have to take her to the vet to have it removed before it rots. The camera battery died as soon as we got there, so no pics. To bad!

We had some of the work done on our bathroom. It has been stripped to the 2x4's, all the rot removed and a new sub floor installed. We need to do all the finish work but have put it on the back burner until fall.

River is changing everyday. He is getting to be more and more like a little boy. No baby is left in him. He is so much fun to talk to now. We have full conversation's and he shares his observations with us. I love it! He is getting more silly and likes to try to get us or play jokes on us. He is really getting to be a good little boy. He follows instruction with out fighting me about it. I can let him do more things he wants because he listens to me so much better. He can walk across the parking lot without holding my hand because he stays with me and looks for cars by himself. He is getting to walk around in the grocery store without being in the cart. No more fights about getting into his car seat because he is big enough to do it by himself now. Gaining some more independence seems to make him happy, but he is still my little cuddle boy. I get more kisses and more loves now too.

All in all things have started to settle down for us. We are caught up on house projects and chores and have settled into a routine of work week followed by camping on the weekend. The best part of having a camper is that it is a breeze to get ready to go and to unpack. Brian has a project to finish in our front yard and that's about it. I will try to get some photos from around the house posted this week.

July Photos

2008-07-31T21:15:00.000-07:00

First Trip in Camper

Fourth of July at Westport

New Purchase and an Unfortunate Discovery

2008-07-16T22:47:00.000-07:00

Last week Brian and I made a purchase. We got a fifth wheel camper. We love it! It is perfect for family use. It has 2 sets of bunk beds and a queen size bed, plenty of room to move around too. We are going to Westport this weekend for our first trip. It is a flat drive and an easier first trip. Driving and setting it up is not really hard but there is a learning curve. Brian drove it home and parked it in our drive way like a pro. It was a tight squeeze to get it parked but he managed well. My Mom and Dad came with us to help out a bit. I have started to stock it with all the essentials...coffee pot, toaster, tooth brushes and such. We already have plenty of cooking gear from tenting. We have been so busy we are looking forward to taking River to the beach, being together and just relaxing.

Speaking of busy, the day after we brought our camper home we started a minor house project. We thought we needed to replace the wax seal on the toilet and decided to tile the floor while we had the toilet out. Turns out the toilet was fine. However, the bathtub faucet was not. It has been leaking for a very long time. You might wonder how we know it has been a long time. Well we discovered that most of out upstairs bathroom is rotten. Parts of the walls, 2x4's, flooring, everywhere. It's bad, very bad. We may even has to replace floor joists. We won't know until it is completely riped out. Brian started but we decided to see if our home owners would pay, which they do, at least for most. We are looking for a contractor and getting bids. We have only had one so far but it seems we are about $1000 off. We had already taken the house off the market. I guess we knew that something like this could happen with an older house. We are just relived that we don't have to fix it ourselves and are planning on dooing as much camping as we can while dealing with the situation in between. We were told it could take up to two weeks to repair. No one can even start until next week. So that's that, nothing left to do but get it fixed. In the end we will end up having a much nicer bathroom.

Vacation Photos.....Finally!

2008-07-16T21:54:00.001-07:00

Jamestown

Busch Gardens

Cute Pictures

My camera battery died so stay posted for Fontana photos

In Virginia Again

2008-06-29T10:35:00.000-07:00

We are back in Virginia from our trip to Fontana. It ended up being a 10 hour drive!! Actually it wasn't to bad because River traveled so well. He hasn't really been his best this whole trip, but when we need him to behave the most he has come through for us! We stayed in a nice 3 bedroom cabin, right in the middle of the Smokey Mountains. Very beautiful. We enjoyed being there and the highlight of the trip was the day Art (Brian's step Dad) rented a pontoon boat for the day. We jumped off the boat into the most perfect lake water! The water temperature was just perfect enough to cool you down with out being too cold. The water was deep, clear and a gorgeous blue-green color. The view from on the water looking to the shore was fabulous. Brian took River out on the "tube" a few times and each time he settled in and FELL ASLEEP! Everyone was amazed at how quickly and easily he fell asleep right there on the tube being pulled around a lake. He would have easily spent the day sleeping on it, but Daddy can only hold on for so long.

When we came back we stepped out of the car into the most hot, humid weather I ever want to experience. I know that this type of weather is normal for a good part of the East Coast, but for me it is just too HOT! Even Brian thought so. We spent the evening indoors and will spend the rest of today inside.

Tomorrow we will leave for home. Our flight leaves at 6 am and we arrive about 11. We will get our dogs and get back to the grindstone of regular life.

On Vacation

2008-06-20T19:07:00.000-07:00

Brian and I are ending the first leg of our 2 week vacation. We have been in Newport News, Virginia staying with Brian's sister and bro in law. His grand mommy has been staying with us also. Brian's Dad and his wife Joyce are staying in a nearby hotel. It has been great getting to know his family better and I really feel like part of the family. We have had the chance to do some sight seeing as well. Not an easy task with a 2 year old. Williamsburg and Jamestown, both historic sites and a great time. Best of all was Busch Gardens. The best amusement park EVER. River had a great time and we could not have asked for better behavior. We got there at 9:30 am and stayed until 8:30 pm. We went with Jen, her kids and Brian's Dad. The kids got to go on tons of rides and Brian and I got to go on some great roller coaster rides. Some were big enough to scare us. We wore Jim (Brian's Dad) out, but he was a great sport and really enjoyed spending time with the all the kids. It really gave River a chance to get to know him.

Sunday we will travel 8 HOURS to Fontana North Carolina. We will be staying in cabins near the lake. We will enjoy spending time with his mom and both sisters. We will travel with Jen, Bill and their kids and meet the rest there.

River did a fantastic job flying here. It was one of the most relaxing trips we have taken. Pics when we return!

2008-06-09T22:50:00.000-07:00

Busy Times

2008-06-09T21:54:00.000-07:00

As most everyone knows, our house is on the market. We have been getting at least 2 showings a week. In this market that is really good. We are glad, but it is very time consuming keeping the house in top shape at all times, just in case. We had a visit from Jen and Bill, Brian's sister and bro in law. It was a good time, but short. We tried to go up to Mt Rainier but were greeted with rain and pea soup fog. River loved getting to know his Aunt and Uncle and they were great with him. We leave on Friday to go to Virginia to visit them and the rest of the family. It will be good to have so much time to spend together.

With everything going on life has been busy and it seems one day flows in to the next with more little things that need to be done. We are glad that we can get away from it all and slow down over vacation. River is changing so much now we don't want to miss it. He does so many cute things I can't even remember all of it by the end of the day. He has been going thru a phase of being scared at nite. He has had to sleep with his light on the last few nights. After we put him to bed he cries and says the neetopper is coming. He repeats it a few times. Don't ask, because I have no idea what the neetopper is. I think that he was scared one nite and realized that brought me back to his room so he keeps it up to prolong bedtime, mixed in with some genuine fear. We comfort him and leave his light on and I think he is getting over it. He is really turning out to be such a little love boy. Tonite, Brian and I took some time out to just hang out with him on a blanket on the floor. I gave him a kiss and he kept going back and forth kissing each of us. Then he told me "I Love my Daddy" and then he kissed me and said to Brian "I Love Mommy". Heart melting. However, he can turn into a little "terrible two"in the blink of an eye. He was born testing my limits and makes it a point to do so regularly. It is so frustrating but I also admire his determination and strength of will.

The weather here has been nothing but overcast, cold and rain. I think it has only been that way for a week and a half but it feels like forever. Today the wind was blowing and it was raining, it really could have been a winter day.

I haven't really mentioned much about my Dad and what is going on with him, but I am happy to be able to say that he is off chemo for now. He has been on it since the beggining of the year. Things look like they will be good for some time. It will be great to have him feeling better. After such a long time it had really started to wear him down. Defiantly a reason to be thankful!

Questions

2008-05-22T21:46:00.000-07:00

It has always been Brian and I asking River questions, are you hungry, tired, happy? Tonite Brian came home from work and sat down at the table with us while we were coloring. He yawned, briefly. River, without looking up or missing a beat, asked, Are you tired? Brian and I looked at each other like he just asked the most profound question ever. It just struck us how much he can talk and how much he notices and processes. He changes so much recently it's hard to even keep up with him.

Quick Update

2008-05-21T23:41:00.000-07:00

River was diagnosed with a single ear infection and strep throat. Today is the first day he hasn't had a fever. His appetite also returned. I think after a good night's rest he should be much better in the morning. We had to take Jinx back to the vet on Tuesday. She hadn't really improved. She was diagnosed with anxiety again. Brian and I think that she might be scared of River. He is loud, moves fast and is full of mischief. We will have to see.

River and Jinx

2008-05-18T21:14:00.000-07:00

OK, it has been a crazy weekend. I am tired but I wanted to give everyone a quick update. To start with River started running a fever Saturday morning. It started out at 102. It took a dose of both Tylenol and Ibuprofen to get it down. I think he has an earache. Just my hunch. Anyway, he napped at 12:30 and slept until 5! Poor guy. It was a hot day so it was nice that Brian and I got almost the whole day to take it easy. We took turns getting some sun in the one spot that gets sun on our back deck. We had music playing and just did a lot of nothing. Haven't done that in a while. It was so hot that we went out to get some teriyaki after River woke up. He seemed better. He even wanted to play outside when we got back, but soon after his fever had spiked to 103.7! Whoa! We gave him a coolish bath and fever meds. It took awhile but it went down. We were up with him off and on all nite. He mostly wanted comfort. He slept in until 10 this morning. Normally he is up by 7. Again he seemed better. Just a short episode of 101 fever. He was energetic and playful for the rest of the day, but had 102 fever again tonite. Don't worry, I am taking him to the Doc as soon as possible tomorrow. In the past I would have taken him to urgent care but as he gets older he usually gets over a fever in day or so by himself. I really thought he was over the hump I didn't think he would have a fever at all tonite, especially not 102. We will see what happens tonite, we may end up at the ER yet.

Some time late afternoon, early evening we noticed Jinx panting heavily and shaking hard. She had been in the cool basement for most of the day so we weren't worried about her overheating. We put her back downstairs and she seemed fine. I let her out this morning and showered. When I went outside she was doing it again. We monitored her for the rest of the day. No improvement. I started to get worried and ended up taking her to the ER vet. The one here in Olympia had a 4-5 hour wait so I had to go to Tacoma. They were so nice. Turns out she just needed a tranquilizer. Jinx has always been easily frightened but she is still a pretty normal dog. I guess sometimes a dog like her can get freaked out and no one knows why. The weird part was as soon as I put her in the truck and drove for a few miles she calmed right down. Immediately stopped panting and shaking. As soon as I opened the door to the vet (she has never been to) she started up again. It is all very weird. Something at home is upsetting her, I wish I knew what it was. I am interested in any opinions or experiences any one has had with anything like this. Brian stayed at home and took care of River, fed him, bathed him and got him to bed. Then gave him Tylenol for his fever. I am glad I did not have to handle a sick baby and crazy dog all by myself.

Our family has kept us guessing this weekend, but so far all is well. I will be happy to get River to the doc tomorrow and see what is wrong with him. I guess we will have to put him on antibiotics. I hate to, but if he needs them....I don't want him to be sick anymore.

By the way we had a weekend of super weather. Nice Friday, hot (like 90) Saturday and a very pleasant 80 today. We are expecting rain again this week, but we'll see. Hopefully the next time we get a taste of summer everyone will be healthy so we can go camping or spend the day at the lake together.

Dog Fence Drama

2008-04-28T21:34:00.000-07:00

Things have been busy around here. About 2 weeks ago we decided to purchase an invisible fence to keep our dogs contained to our yard. We are lucky enough to have wonderful neighbors who like our dogs visiting but I don't think they enjoy the "presents" the dogs leave behind. They would never say anything though. We have always let our dogs roam the area and it has never been a problem until recently. In the past they always did their business in the woods, not the neighbors yard. So, the new purchase. From the start it turned out to be way more of a problem than expected. It took us going back and forth across town from store to store trying to find one. We finally got one at Cabela's. Brian spent the afternoon installing it in the double loop formation described in the directions. This is used to keep the dogs only in the back, instead of the entire property. Long story short it ended with Brian laughing as the dogs yelped and me very upset. The use of the fence is put on hold, I research and decide that we need to do a single loop around the whole property. We wait for the rain to stop to try again. Finally we get a sunny day and it's a Saturday. Brian did a quick and FANTASTIC job of redoing the wire. He even put up the flags, that was supposed to be my job. I ended up house hunting, another story. Sunday evening I find time to train the dogs to learn their boundaries. I walked them on leashes around the perimeter physically pointing out all the boundary flags. One mild shock each and we have dogs who seem to "get it". Our neighbor's dog even came by and the dogs stayed in the yard and away from the perimeter. I feel confident that it is all over and done with. Silly me. Today I had the dogs out, they are staying around but are a little too cautious to explore the entire yard. As I pay close attention to them I call them to various areas of the yard. Everything is great, until I relax. I am enjoying myself helping Brian wash our windows. I go over to the neighbors to return a toy and I hear Jinx cry out. She ran thru the dumb fence!!!! In the meantime Kelsy is freely wandering the neighborhood with her collar on! What? I guess that her collar was not on tight enough. Jinx is still traumatized, hours later. She hasn't stopped panting and shaking since the incident. I hope she doesn't have a heart attack. I remain determined to make this whole thing work. I have to say I think the product is great but some how, somewhere I have failed to grasp some important concept. The worst part is I have been driving Brian nuts with my research, testing of the fence and collars all to make sure everyting works properly. Back to the drawing board.

Sunny Days

2008-04-12T20:49:00.000-07:00

The sun has made an appearance in our gloomy state. Friday was a nice day, slightly brisk and very sunny. Warm by the afternoon. River and I met some friends at the farmers market, grabbed a bite to eat and walked to a nearby park. Good to see friends, good to be outside and best that my sister was able to meet us at the park as well. As the park fun came to an end, my friend Lindsay and I took our little ones for a stroller ride around Capital Lake. It was just to nice of a day to go back home for naps. We did eventually make it back for naps and Brian and I wrapped up the evening enjoying the fresh air in our yard and playing with River.

Today was AMAZING!!! It felt so warm. I haven't checked to see how warm it got but it was almost HOT! It felt close to 80 degrees. Unbelievable. We started the day with a bike ride on the Chehalis Western Trail. Brian only wore a t-shirt and felt a bit chilly at first. We stopped at our halfway point to let River stretch his legs and we all had a snack. We sat in grass and soaked up the sun. River ran around in the grass and stuck close to us and listened to us when we told him he was going to far. He really is getting to be a good boy. We could feel it warming up with every minute. Had an enjoyable ride back. After we got home, Brian mowed the grass and cleaned out the garage. I did my usual house work but found excuse to go outside here and there. We actually had to WATER our grass! After River woke up we drove to Safeway, got some bottles of water and walked from there to a park. About a 25 minute walk each way. River played at the park and climbed the little hills he called mountains just so he could run back down. Brian joined him in the mountain climbing adventure. River even got some pink cheeks from all the sun. When we were at the park a slight breeze came up and it still felt so warm! We didn't leave the park until 6:30 or so and it was almost hot walking back. After River was in bed I stepped out on our back deck in a t-shirt and I was completely comfortable and warm. So hard to believe. Just Thursday I went walking at the Nisqually Refuge and had to wear a jacket because it was just chilly and grey. Now today was like a summer day. I loved it. So did Brian and River. I love these kinds of days because River just plays so hard and doesn't have the energy to test limits. We are thankful for a break from the grey weather that is so constant here.

Happy Birthday River

2008-04-03T11:50:00.000-07:00

Tuesday the 1st of April was River's 2cnd birthday. We had planned to have a big hamburger party for him. However, I was recovering from being really sick, Brian had a minor cold and so did River so we had a "just us" celebration. We ordered Pizza and had peach pie. While Brian had River outside I put his presents in a pile on the floor. When he came in he saw them and got to open them. It was so fun. He first told us to open the presents but opened them all on his own after we told him he had to open them. He got a Thomas train, monster truck, farm animals, books and movies. He also got a really cool work bench with foam "wood" and a working drill/screwdriver. He wanted to look at each present before moving on to the next. After we finished pizza we sang to him and had him blow out his #2 candle. I think that he liked the singing the best. I can't describe how he looked but it seemed like he really felt special at that point. As we were cutting pieces of pie he was singing Happy Birthday to himself. Very cute. It was a relaxing evening and a good birthday celebration. Grandparents, Aunts, Uncles and Cousins will be coming on Friday for an official birthday party!!! Can't wait!!!

Easter

2008-03-24T20:06:00.000-07:00

Brian had to leave at 3:30 on Easter morning to go to Texas for work. We missed him but had a good time anyway. We went to my sister's house and River hunted eggs with his cousins. He took the whole thing very seriously and only had to be shown what to do one quick time and he was off on a mission. As I watched him I could see his eyes moving all around looking for eggs. The weather was cold, rainy and basically dreary. My sister and her husband have a LARGE shop so the Easter Bunny hid eggs in there. Nice and dry. There are tools and other shop stuff around, things that would really interest an almost 2 year old. River was not distracted and he kept right on track with finding the eggs. Carson and Josie were great big cousins and made sure that there were eggs for River to find. Papa made sure to help River "notice" where eggs might be. Afterward we went back inside the house and the kids looked at what was in their Easter Baskets. After enjoying the morning with family River and I headed home at naptime. When we got home we put on pajama bottoms and hid from the rain. For dinner we had ice cream and popcorn. Not quite traditional but we were happy and enjoyed relaxing together. I hope everyone enjoyed Easter and had better weather. By the way, the days before and after Easter were beautiful!

Watch Out for the Dinosours

2008-03-19T13:26:00.000-07:00

Various Pictures

2008-03-13T20:39:00.000-07:00

This is the first full day after the time change. We had went out for a casual dinner. It was such a nice evening that we decided to take advantage of both the weather and extra daylight and take River to the park. We also thought he would be good and tired and ready for bed so it would not be hard for him to adjust to the new time. When we got to the park all of these "tractors" were parked around. Brian let River "drive" them all. River was so excited he just kept running around saying tractor. We had a great time watching his excitment! Leaving was the hard part.

A day at the Park with friends from our play date. River keeps saying "member dae dae?" I had no idea what he meant until this day he said to me "play date, remember" It finally dawned on me that dae dae was play date and he finally got it out so I could understand. Mystery solved.

The ink pen incident. We now have new locks on our sliders that were installed at the top so River can not reach them. He had figured out how to unlock them and could let himself outside. I went into the bathroom for a minute and he had let himself out, found an old ink pen and scared me into thinking he had cut himself. I had to laugh! Another day he had let himself out on the back deck. Usually there is nothing that can hurt him and he can't fall from it. I needed to do dishes and he was happy outside so I let him be out there. We had recently changed our dogs food. This must not have settled well with one of them because all the sudden I heard River just crying away. I went out side and he had stepped in dog poo ( the runny kind) and he was in his bare feet. He must have slipped on it too because it was on his hands. He was so upset about it, he was crying and saying "clean, I want clean." The worst part for me was that he wanted to be hugged and kept wanting to hold on to me with his dirty hands!! With a quick bath and some comforting he was back to himself in no time.

BUSY!!!!

2008-03-11T20:02:00.000-07:00

We have been very busy with house stuff, again!!! Just when we think we are done more things creep up. I have the cutest video of River and some cute pictures also. I have a pounding headache tonite so stay posted for photos, hopefully tomorrow. I didn't want anyone to think I forgot I even have a blog!!!

Crazy River

2008-02-18T21:02:00.000-08:00

The quality of the video is not great, it was done with our camera but this was our whole nite with River. No down time at all, we barley got him to bed. It was a good day!

I Luv You Mommy

2008-02-12T13:56:00.000-08:00

Now that river is well, we have been very busy. I can't keep up on things like I am used to. We are getting ready to do a major remodel on our house, getting our taxes prepared and lots of other little things. However we are still lucky enough to notice all the changes River is making. He is becoming the sweetest little love bug ever. He has said "luv you" a few times usually in response to us saying it or after getting hugs and kisses. This morning Brian brought him to me in bed, I was trying to catch up on my sleep. He said Mommy, Mommy, I love you Mommy. It melted my heart. Hearing that coupled with all the little hugs and cuddles we get from him makes us love him more every day. River has always been so independant that it almost surprises us to see his little sweet side come out, but we are eating it up. He loves to cuddle with both of us on the couch before bed. These are the moments we have been waiting for!!! YAY!!!!

Healthy Again

2008-02-05T09:24:00.000-08:00

River had a follow up appointment with his Dr. yesterday. He has a clean bill of health. Over the weekend we stayed inside watched Cars at least 100 times. The rash he had from his allergic reaction would get better and then we would try to go to the store or something it would get worse. On Sunday it was all but gone. It started to come back again on Monday before the going to the Doctor. He was prescribed more Prednisone. After returning his rash was almost gone so we decided not to give him the medicine. All is well today. I am happy to have my happy, playful and stubborn little boy back. I included a few pictures I took of him when he was sick.

Update

2008-01-30T21:09:00.001-08:00

River is recovering well from his pneumonia. He is happy again and getting rest. He's still a sick little guy but he is much better. Tonite I went to put him in the bath and noticed hives all over his arms, hands, feet and legs. After calling the Doctor it was determined that he is having an allergic reaction to his antibiotic. We gave him Benadryl. I went in to give him a breathing treatment and the hives are almost gone. I am relieved. Off to the doctor again tomorrow.

Snow Again and Sickness .....Again

2008-01-28T14:41:00.000-08:00

This morning we woke up to a beautiful blanket of snow. It is the most we have had all year at our house. I wanted to post pictures and take River out to enjoy the snow, but it is not to be. River is recovering from being really sick this weekend. He has a virus that causes a high fever. Today the fever has broke and the cold is moving in......or so I thought. A day has now passed and River has pneumonia. We took him to the doctor after a night of constant coughing. He now has to do a breathing treatment every 4 hours around the clock and take an antibiotic. He is borderline dehydrated so we are working on giving him fluids. He has a least been able to rest this evening with less coughing so I am hopeful for tonite. We will be taking care of our sick little one and making the best of it until he recovers.

Singing, Counting and Sentences

2008-01-24T17:17:00.000-08:00

River has been growing so much since Christmas. He now attempts to sing both Twinkle Twinkle and Jingle Bells. I am not counting on him ever really learning Jingle Bells because his only exposure to the song has been Daddy's versions. He also likes to count. We start by saying one, two and then he will say three, we say four, he says five and so it goes until we get to ten. He will often say three numbers in a row before we have a turn again. Brian had started some counting games with him while he was giving baths. He also started picking it up from his morning cartoons. His sentences are really developing too. The other day I was eating a breakfast sandwich in the car and he said "I want a bite of samwich". I was amazed. I didn't realize that he had picked up the word "a" and "of" and knew how to use them. He also loves to remember things. He will start by saying "member?" and then I say some thing and then he will start saying names of people and a place where we all were. For Example: "Member?" "Amaya, Chaso" "Chuck Cheese". He is telling me about the time we met some friends at Chuck E Cheese. It was the first time he was big enough to really have a good time and it must have really stuck in his mind. It amazes me how he seems to be the same little River for a few months and then it seems overnight he is doing all these new things.

I really enjoy him more with each new development. He is busier than ever and doesn't nap as much. It is getting harder and harder for me to find time to get things done around the house. That's Ok though, because River is just so much fun. We can talk and play with each other. I am looking forward to Summer and all the new adventures we can have as a family.

Weekend Adventures

2008-01-21T12:32:00.000-08:00

Brian had a 3 day weekend this week. We had a good time enjoying the extra time off. We took River to Tolmie State Park. It is one of our favorite parks and is close by. We have not been there in a long time. River had fun exploring around. There were several encounters of booted little feet getting in the water and one quick effort to run all the way into the water. The attempt was stopped by Mon, but it was a close call. River loves to watch and wait until I am not paying attention to make his move, quick as anything. He keeps me on my toes! We did not take a stroller or pack and he was free to roam the whole time. It got to be a little to much for him as it was time to leave. He was hungry and tired, but it was a fun time. We love that now he is older he can actually enjoy some of the places we take him.

That evening we took him to open gym gymnastics. He got to jump in the foam pits and run on the running trampoline. He had so much fun. He is starting to talk in sentences now. Mostly 2 word things but we get a lot of " I want to walk" . It seems he picks up a few new words everyday. He copies EVERYTHING Brian and I say. He has sat in the back seat of the car repeating everything Brian and I say as we are having a conversation.

For the rest of the weekend Brian has been working on insulating his shop and turning it into a place that he can play his music.

Sucsess

2008-01-07T12:58:00.000-08:00

Brian and I have not particularly been in a hurry to wean River from his bottles. We never considered it important and sort of figured that when River was ready he would let us know. Well, that time has been coming. He had been down to 3 bottles for a LONG time. Morning, noon, and nite. He has been off his morning bottle for a couple months now. No big deal since he did not rely on it to help him fall asleep. I have been noticing that he really has been losing interest in his bottles and not fully drinking them. They really seem to be more of a habit than comfort lately. This afternoon was the first time I tried to give him a nap with no bottle. It went well. We went to the park this morning so I knew he was good and tired. I fed him a big lunch and put him down with a sippy. He took a few big drinks and put it down. He made some small fusses, called for me a few times, more small fusses and went to sleep. A big step for my little guy. Now I have to decide if we do the same tonite or take it in "baby steps".

Christmas Photos

2007-12-27T21:49:00.001-08:00

We had a wonderful Christmas. My parents were able to come the day before Christmas eve to stay with us and spend some extra time with River. My sister and her family came for Christmas day. We had our neighbors come to join us for dinner on Christmas eve.

River was overwhelmed with the whole idea of Christmas. He did enjoy himself, but I don't think he knew what to make of it all. He didn't know what do when he saw the tree in the morning. We gave him his stocking and after getting a candy cane, first thing in the morning, he started to figure out it was a special day. He opened all his presents himself (mostly). We had to open all his toys as he unwrapped them. He REALLY loved getting his new trike. It was sent from Grandpa and Grandma Fields. They had told us it was a nice trike, but we did not know what to expect. We were so surprised to see it. River wanted to get on and never get off. We had to push him on it all around the house. Eventually we had to hide it for a while so we could move on. River's Nama and Papa sent him some books and a cool Thomas Trian. River loves trains. He also has a neat spring horse from my parents. It is plush and it sings and talks.

It was so nice to have family together and to see River experience the holiday, but I am happy to be moving on to the New Year. Something about the end of the year makes me want to clean and get reorganized. Needless to say, Brian and I will be busy beaver's around the house this weekend. After the new year I want to find some time to take River to the snow and find some fun things we can do outside, even if it is raining. Also the days should start to get a little longer by the end of January. That is definitely something to look forward to!

Good News

2007-12-26T13:49:00.000-08:00

Our truck was returned to us this morning. We had to go pick it up from downtown at 3:30. Nothing was missing and there was NO damage to the truck at all. Weird. We are relieved to have our truck back and our life back to normal. Stay posted for Christmas photos.

Brian's Work Day

2007-12-20T23:16:00.000-08:00

Today Brian went on the Army ships to check some stuff out. It was a clear, cold day. A nice change from the grey, stormy weather.

A Great Morning

2007-12-20T13:09:00.000-08:00

Today I took River to the mall. I had one quick Christmas present to buy and I wanted Starbucks. River was a perfect angel!! He walked on his own (no hand holding) through JC Penny's with me. He did not touch, grab or break anything. We then went to Starbucks and he walked the whole way ON HIS OWN. He waited right by me while I ordered, paid and waited for my drink. He then walked all the way back to the play area to content himself with paying IN the play area and did not try to escape. This is NOT what usually happens when we go to the mall. Usually there is hand holding, carrying and tantrums. We also went to look at Santa and get snacks from Subway. River let me carry him and even snuggled me. I just can't believe that was my son behaving so well at the mall. I had a great time with him and felt like I was out with my little buddy. Maybe there is light at the end of the tunnel, can it be that all the battles we have had over behaving are begining to pay off? Most likely River just decided to take it easy on his Mom today. I won't hold my breath, but maybe I will hope a bit. Either way it was a great morning and for now I am gonna take all the credit for it.

TAKEN

2007-12-15T12:36:00.000-08:00

After shopping with friends last night , we decided to head into Downtown Olympia for a bite to eat and some fun. I parked my truck in front on the street and when we returned to leave it was GONE!!! Another car was parked in it's place. It was not towed, it was stolen. It was very shocking to all of us, this kind of stuff does not happen in Olympia. Oh well, what can we do but deal with it. I will be getting a rental car on Monday. My sister is lending me an extra car seat until we figure out what else to do. I am happy that me and my family and friends are all safe. I will miss my big truck.

SNOW!!!!!!!

2007-12-10T20:56:00.000-08:00

Although not officailly our first snow this year, it is the first snow that both stuck and River got to play in. (even with a cold)

Playgroup

2007-12-10T20:27:00.000-08:00

Friday we went with our group to the Nisqually Wildlife Delta. The weather was cold!!! We walked probably 2 miles or so and then the kids got to play. River couldn't have been happier. He loves to be around other kids and is always happiest outside. It is so great to see him really interacting and becoming independent. The Nisqually Delta is a protected habitat for birds and ducks. It is a very pretty place and all flat walking. I love to take River there. Since then, he has developed a cold. That really is a bummer since he just got over a big sickness from last weekend. I really don't mind him getting sick but I hate when it happens so close together. So far he seems to be weathering this new cold well. He has energy and an appetite. We do have more frequent tantrums but River has really gotten me used to that!!

What a Weekend

2007-12-02T16:09:00.001-08:00

We have been busy over the weekend. Friday evening was all about River and his fever. We were in full on Mom and Dad mode and camped out in the living room all night. Poor River was so sick and was running a high fever. It took doses of both Tylenol and Ibuprofen to get it down. I had taken him to the Doctor earlier in the day and he was diagnosed with an ear infection and possible stomach bug. He still has not been eating much at all, but the fever is gone. I panic just a little when he runs fever because I am so scared he will have another seizure. Brian was great and brought home pizza and brought me all the things I needed to take care of River. Most of my time was spent just holding River.

After making it through the night we attempted to have a normal weekend. Today was the day to put up lights. It had started snowing and River seemed well enough to go out for a short time. I was excited about getting lights up and having it snow seemd even better to me, however, Brian did not find it as great. He was stuck putting up the lights in bare hands! River was not at all impressed by the snow and the effort of getting ready to go out seemed to be enuf to tire him out. He was quickly back inside for a nap. Whew!!!! After lunch, Brian decided to try to finish the floors downstairs. Everything was going along just fine when a lamp tipped over and we lost power to an entire circuit. We checked the breaker box, checked ground fault interrupters, made a late evening trip to the hardware store to replace a breaker and still nothing. As a matter of fact, it got worse. We now had breakers popping and new breakers tripping. My Dad came up and took a look at things and after checking for shorts and more of the same we are still right where we started.....having to call an electrician. I guess this stuff is part of the "character" of having an older home. Fortunately, we have power to all of our major appliances and hot water. An extension cord makes the computer usable again so we are not to bad off. It could be much worse. I hate having to call some one out, wait, wait, wait and then hope they really know what they are doing. Oh well.

I have a good handle on Christmas shopping, so I am looking forward to wrapping presents and finishing decorating and shopping. I plan to get a gift for the giving tree. Even through all of the events I think the Christmas spirit is sneaking up on me. Hope everyone had good weekends and has a great week to come.

Pictures to come.......

Thanksgiving

2007-11-26T08:19:00.000-08:00

We had a great time at my sisters house. It was her first turkey and it turned out yummy. It was good to have all of us together. We were all glad to have the sun out and be able to spend some time outside. Lori has a very cool bird hanging around her house. They have figured out that it is a golden pheasant, native to Eastern Washington. We loved the bird. It is so amazing looking close up. It lets you get very close to it and I was able to touch it, briefly.

As far as the house projects go , we are still slowly poking along. The floors are almost done downstairs. Brian also spent some time getting the yard cleaned up. I love him a little bit more when he does yard work. It makes such a difference. He does a great job.

River has been his usual independent, happy self. He keeps talking more and more. He says hungry, dinner when he wants something to eat, no matter the time of day. We are starting to hear a few sentences come from him like, I want some some. He has been growing so much. He can wear size 3t now!!! His 2t shirts fit him , but there is no room to grow. The newest battle in our house is sitting at the table for dinner. He is just determined that he eats on the run and I am just as determined that we eat at the table. I have to love the fact that he is his own person and knows what he wants.

Update

2007-11-14T21:57:00.000-08:00

Brian and I have been so busy with family life and trying to finish up projects on our basement, I have not been able to get any pictures taken. As usual, Brian and I get excited to start projects and never take any before pictures. We have finished painting and we tore up all of our carpet downstairs. We are living on a concrete floor for now. Even so, we feel relieved to have the carpet gone. The dogs spend the majority of their time downstairs and it is to hard to keep the carpet clean. We need to put up trim, get new curtains and figure out what kind of floor we want. I want to wait until after the holidays to even think about the floor. It just gets to be to much. Lots to do, but we feel like we are getting close to having the house the way we want. It will be nice to get the last details done and just wait until we are ready to HIRE some one to do our garage remodel.

River had an overnight visit with his grandparents this weekend and Brian and I were able to have a nite out. It is amazing what a nite out can do. Refreshing. Thanks Papa and Granma. River's new favorite word is "funny". I think he thinks that he is very funny.

Pictures coming soon!!

River's Antics

2007-11-05T21:06:00.000-08:00

River did the funniest thing this weekend. He told on Daddy to me. He was playing with our hand held vacuum and Brian took it away and put it up. River thru his little tantrum, which he is prone to do. When Brian told him to stop and that he couldn't have the vacuum, he put on his cutest pout and came to me in the kitchen and said vacuum, vacuum. It was really funny. I am trying not to let on, but I think he just might be to smart for both of us. Some new words ... fly, firefly, sunshine and jewel (He and Daddy have named the fish), monster, Santa, weeble, temperature and more.

He has also learned a new "trick" outside. He took his little trike and launched himself down the hill on the side of our house. I saw it coming but could not beat him to it. He thought it was a great adventure. I was imagining broken bones. Luckily the trike took a turn towards the flower bed and not straight down. He was really picking up speed and it could have been bad. I hope this is not a sign of things to come.

I have been waiting and waiting for River to ask for and give kisses. I got my wish. He says kiss and opens his mouth wide and kinda sticks out and curls under his tongue. It is very wet and a little yucky but I will take what I can get!

2007-11-01T21:42:00.000-07:00

Here are pictures of our Halloween adventures. River looked so cute running around just like a little duck! He never quite got the whole concept of the nite down, but he was excited. He understood what candy was quickly. He kept saying cany, cany. Carson, Josie and Papa helped show River the ropes. He got a sucker to finish off the nite. We had so much fun watching him and laughing at his cuteness!

Trick or Treat!!!!

2007-11-01T21:28:00.000-07:00

River's Friends

2007-11-01T21:14:00.000-07:00

We met some friends from our play group at the library on Halloween morning. What a cute bunch of little ones! They have all known each other since before they were 1. It took some serious coordination to get them all lined up and in one place long enough for some pictures!

2007-10-29T20:35:00.000-07:00

We carved our pumpkins tonite. Brian did a fantastic job of head pumpkin carver. River was excited about the pumpkins at first, but he got over it pretty quickly. Soon it will be time for trick or treat. I think River will love it.

Over the weekend we started some new house projects. Brian has finished the outside, so it is time to start our bedroom. We removed a pocket door and are getting ready for paint. We have finished the wallpaering upstairs. We only have one more wall to fix upstairs and we will pretty much be done up there! Dad helped us finish the top board of the ceiling. River got to play with Grandma and Papa for awhile too. He ran a fever Fri nite and Sat morning but he has been fine since.

Happy Halloween Everyone!

Pumpkin Carving

2007-10-29T20:20:00.000-07:00

Brian's Day Off

2007-10-24T21:35:00.000-07:00

Brian took the day off on Tuesday to take advantage of the wonderful weather. We decided to drive to Mt Rainier. River was even excited to take the drive. He watched all the new scenery go by and was happy to tell us what he saw. We stopped for lunch in Elbe, at the base of the Mountain, and were pleasantly surprised by how warm it was. We had on jeans and long sleeves and felt overdressed! At The Grove of the Patriarchs we did some hiking, including a side trip. We were the only ones there. We hardly saw anyone at the Park. We drove home thru Morton and Mossyrock. It was nice to see the countryside. Brian and I had not been to Mt. Rainier since I was pregnant with River. The day made us look forward to all of the fun we will have with River next Summer. He already loves the outdoors so much.

2007-10-24T21:19:00.000-07:00

At The Cider Mill

2007-10-22T16:03:00.001-07:00

Happy Birthday Aunt Lori

2007-10-22T15:47:00.000-07:00

Jeremy and Lori

Mom and Dad

Jeremy, Carson and Lori

Josie and River

Saturday Oct. 20th was my sister Lori's 31st birthday. We celebrated at Dirty Dave's Pizza with the Family. It was a great place for the kids to let loose and have a good time and for the adults to enjoy each other's company. Lori had a great birthday!!

Mid Week Update

2007-10-17T12:51:00.000-07:00

River and I are down with a bug. We are not doing to bad though. River has a "new" word. It is elephant. When he says it, it sounds like ah-peat. He is very proud that he knows this word and insists that it is acknowledged. He has also picked up the word broccoli. We have started time out and it is working wonderfully. I just can't believe how well he understands and responds to them. I had tried everything I could think of to show River I am serious when I tell him not to do something. Time outs just do the trick. Hallelujah!!!! We are expecting a big windstorm on Thursday. I am planning on having our power go out. I hope that we don't have any trees come down on our house. We will be spending a lot of time in the safety of our downstairs and River will sleep with us. My sisters birthday and yard projects on the agenda for the weekend. Brian is not feeling that great either so not much going on here now. I will keep everyone posted on the storm. We will see if it is as bad as the "weatherman" says it is going to be.

Pumkin Patch

2007-10-14T19:07:00.000-07:00

We made it to the Pumpkin Patch this Sunday. The place we went was called Hunters. It was a great time. River had so much fun. The whole place was decorated up and there was so much to do. They had pony rides, kids train rides, a super slide, and multiple corn mazes. River was to small for all of that. They also had animals to look at. Goats, Donkeys, Pigs and Turkey. River was excited about the animals and made his grunting animal sound at the Turkey. For River, the best part was the tractor wagon ride to the patch. After being around the tractor he was not interested in much else. The pumpkins were no longer exciting. When we made the return trip on the tractor wagon we lost River to a complete meltdown because he did not want to leave the tractor. It was really kind of cute. Brian and I had so much fun watching River take it all in. We have 3 pumpkins, a Daddy, Mommy and Baby pumpkin. They are being used for decoration in front of the house now and will be carved closer to Halloween. By the way, for those of you who are interested, River will be a duck. Hope everyone enjoyed their weekends!!!

TGIF

2007-10-12T17:17:00.001-07:00

Glad to have the weekend here. The weather forcast is great. Today was a perfect fall day and we have a whole weekend of rain free weather to look forward to. We will be attending a birthday party for River's friend, Chaso. It is so amazing how fast River is growing and learning. When I watch him play with his friends, I really notice how big he is getting. He loves to play with other kids. We will all spend the rest of our weekend outside as much as possible. We have to get as much sun as we can before the long dreary winter comes. It might be a good time for a visit to the pumkin patch. Check back for pictures of the weekend's events. Enjoy your weekend everyone!!!

Outside Fun

2007-10-10T23:28:00.000-07:00

Where to start?

2007-10-10T22:29:00.000-07:00

It has been a busy week for all of us. Brian is busy at work and has a new yard project under way. We will soon have new river rock behind the garage and shop. I have been finding new recipes as my family is tired of the usual. Last night we had Walnut Raisin Pilaf with Garlic Rosemary Mashed Potatoes. It was a hit! River and I have started a new activity with our group. We are now meeting in a room at the Library. We had a great time and River had his first experience with ring around the rosie!!!! He LOVED it!!! He is still in a hitting phase so we are all trying to work that out.