The Weeks Family

What a year!!

2009-12-26T12:49:00.000-08:00

I told my mom the other day that I spend a lot of time sitting on the computer now days trying to decide what to look at next... Why is it I haven't started working on my blog again?? So here we go. Who knows how it'll go..

We have been so incredibly crazed since I last wrote. We got licensed as Treatment Foster Parents. Have had 3 placements (2 of which HAD to leave). We had very specific ideas when we started... NO TEENAGERS!! Well - our 3rd placement is 13 1/2 has been with us since June and next week is discharging back home to her dad. She's been a lot of work - but has fit so well with our family. We will miss her terribly but luckily her dad is open to us remaining in contact so we'll see and talk to her often.

That means the search is on for another kiddo. We are praying and praying that it happens quickly! This time however we are shooting for a younger boy.

Earlier this year I got diagnosed with Diabetes. Not like we didn't know it was coming - it just sucks that it did!!

Over the summer Jarod started staying at Grandma and Papa's house alone. He's been able to go several time since for a few days at a time. In October I went to General Conference and he was at Grandma's for almost a full week and STILL didn't want to come home. I enrolled him at our city ran pre-school earlier this year and he LOVES it!! It's only a few hours 2ce a week (or in January it'll be 4 days a week) but it's so nice for him to go somewhere and have a nice time. Every now and again you can catch him singing his ABC's or doing his Months.

Zachary is growing like a weed!! He has beautiful curly blonde hair which I refuse to cut! He's as busy as any 2 year old. I enrolled him in a gymnastics class and he's done 2 sessions and LOVES going to 'school'. He refuses to go to nursery at church without me - and also refuses to go to the daycare at the gym... At some point in the near future I'm hoping to torture him and Donna (the daycare lady that Jarod went to for a year and a half before pre-school) by having him to go her house a few hours a week (while Jarod is at school)... leaving me 3 hours of completely kid free time!!

Jake is still working at Sitel.. he's a supervisor for DirecTV and I think he doesn't really like it - but it's a paycheck! I know he'd love to quit and stay home and do nothing! Someday's I'd trade him.

I feel so blessed this year. We've been able to provide for our family and have had everything we've needed. Our Christmas was very well taken care of! In fact I'm taking some things back b/c we just had to much!! (I shopped all year).

I really hope to update frequently and get more pictures here! For my birthday I got a new camera and I LOVE to use it!!

Helicopter Fun

2009-03-08T15:40:00.001-07:00

Up or Down?! I haven't a clue!

2009-01-20T11:50:00.001-08:00

As I expressed prior to my actual joblessness I couldn't have been more excited. I had grand plans to fully update the blog, put up my pictures, make some changes around the house. After all - a mom with no job should have so much free time she should be crying of boredom, right?!

Well one thing is absolutely for certain... I LOVE IT!!! Oh bring on the good days - why in the world did they not fire (I didn't actually get fired but semantics) me sooner? (When I'm groaning in March b/c my van was repo'd please refer me back to this blissful time). I've been so busy doing nothing of any significance that I can't even account for my time! Needless to say - updating the blog hasn't been done... pictures are still in a box... BUT I did change the sheets on my bed! :o)

My in-laws are here visiting... unfortunately my MIL has come down with a nasty case of something and is holed up in bed trying to feel better. My FIL on the other hand is restless as can be. So yesterday we 'reorganized' the front yard, making some necessary adjustments for us to be able to pass our home study. He's currently out on a mission for large, unbreakable trash bags for some further 'reorganization'.

On Monday, Jake and I start our class. It's 6 evenings and 2 days of learning. After which, I have loads of paperwork to do and then the home study. Once the home study is done, and the criminal information is back we will be getting our new kid sometime very soon (Sometime in March, hopefully before the van is repo'd). We (and I do really me we) are excited. Jake is very supportive in my desire to be able to stay at home with the boys and this new venture seems to be an answer to my prayers (stay tuned for April's moaning when I have a houseful of kids for spring break and they are all pulling each others hair out).

So until my next free moment.. since I do so much anyway...

Jarod's Birthday

2009-01-11T09:16:00.001-08:00

Only a 3 year old

2009-01-06T14:45:00.000-08:00

Yesterday Jarod was hanging out with Sarah and DJ. The story goes something like this:

Jarod was sort of dancing around, wiggling his hips, his hands were on his hips, butt, etc. So DJ asks: Jarod do you need to go potty? Jarod stops.. looks at DJ, pats his front and says: DJ the pee thing is empty.

(Sorry I quoted the quote wrong and had to fix it).

Santa Clause Came to Town!

2009-01-04T19:50:00.001-08:00

Holiday Cheer

2009-01-04T17:52:00.001-08:00

Well I've got loads of updating to do... which shouldn't be a big problem now that I'm officially in the ranks of the unemployed. Should one really be kind of excited for such an event??? I mean really????

I suppose while I'm on the subject.. after much, much reflection and various other activities... Jake and I are going to be attending a 'class' later this month which will hopefully be the first step in being licensed through the state to be treatment foster parents. Now - why on earth would we embark on such an adventure? I just CAN'T put the boys in day-care (even though I have a wonderful babysitter who watches Jarod a couple days a week already). When I say can't.. it's literal. Doing treatment foster care compensates very well. It's a lot of work - a lot of appointments and such but it will also give me an opportunity to do something for someone in need. (BTW - in case you don't know treatment foster care children have a mental disability of some sort and they will live with us and be part of our family). It's something that I feel really good about doing and it fits the requirements needed for our family. After the class (really a very extended interview) the licensing will proceed (or not if they decide we aren't functional enough) and take about 6 weeks to complete. Then we just wait and see. Truly I'm excited for the next stages of my life and I feel very blessed to be at such peace with everything that's going on.

So onto others.. Jarod turned 3 on Christmas day (talk about someone who could NOT wait for his birthday).. Pictures to uploaded soon. On Christmas Eve day he decided that wearing underwear would work. I could scream from the rooftops I'm so excited!!! (In-lieu of the rooftops I'll use the world wide web). We are still working on one 'area' of potty use... but who cares?! It's great!!!

I feel like I shouldn't leave out Zachary... He's doing well.. minus the talking thing. He shows no signs of being 'premature'... except in speech. As of yet we don't know if he's delayed or just doesn't talk. He does however point and screech.. His vocabulary includes momma and dada (of course), uh oh, papa and a version of thank you. Mostly the boy is a little pistol. If anyone thinks for one second the kid will not be able to hold his own against Jarod - think again!

So stay tuned in the next couple of days for more posts (pictures) about the holidays, birthday and such.

Welcome 2009!!

Bike riding

2008-12-18T16:10:00.000-08:00

So the other day we were at Walmart and they had all their kids bikes out on the patio. Jarod walked over to one and just got on and started going.

Excuse the quality of this video - it was taken from my mobile AND I was chasing him (turn down your speakers if they are up - it's kind of loud).

Needless to say he's getting a bike for Christmas and has already placed his request with Santa.

Oh the weather outside is frrrrrrrightful!

2008-12-18T10:36:00.002-08:00

For I 'think' the 3rd year in a row, we here in the high desert received an early Christmas snow.

We were getting ready for Jarod to go to the babysitters house on Monday morning and he looks out the window and says 'Oh my gosh mommy, it's snowing!!' I said 'oh no it's not'. Then I looked - sure enough the snow was falling, falling, falling. Is there anything more exciting to a 3 year old than snow?? It snowed ALL DAY LONG.

Tuesday morning Jarod can NOT wait to go outside and play. He comes inside eating a snowball and says 'look Mom, Jarod is eating snow, Christmas snow'. It was cute as could be... my floors on the other hand would disagree as he came in and out all day.

Today it's windy and rainy - so maybe we're in for another round. A friend of mine who hails from Utah said she hates it when it snows... I promptly informed her that's because she's from somewhere that GETS snow... here in the desert we love every little drop we get!!

brrrrrrr

2008-12-18T10:36:00.001-08:00

A GREAT Saturday!

2008-12-18T10:30:00.001-08:00

A couple of weeks ago Sarah said she wanted to take the boys to the Temple to see the Nativity. Later that same day she said "California Pizza Kitchen sounds soooo good". So the following Saturday we loaded up the car and surprised her by going to California Pizza Kitchen. We LOVE that place!!! But it's reserved for only special occasions as it's a little pricey (but the boys LOVE the pizza and chocolate milk).

After we headed over to the Temple to see the Nativity and take some pictures. I think we got several nice pictures and Jarod took some too. Zachary was in a bad mood so we have no smiling pictures. Getting them to look at the camera at the same time was incredibly fun and impossible. Going for family pictures this year is going to be GREAT!!!

Anyway.. enjoy.. I love taking pictures at the temple b/c the scenery is just nice for photo-taking... anytime of year.

The boys trip to the Temple

2008-12-18T10:29:00.001-08:00

December Fun

2008-12-18T10:22:00.001-08:00

Shoes?! Woah.. you've GOT to be kidding me!

2008-12-16T09:25:00.001-08:00

Ok so this post is about something that might have happened oh two months ago. But I've got pictures so I've got to share.

I took Zachary to the gym one morning (this was his first time). He was fully dressed (that hardly ever happens) minus one article of wear - shoes. The nice lady tells me she will let him come in today but in the future he's got to have shoes on. No problem.. I love buying shoes. So for his birthday (sort of late) we hit the shoe store and find the most adorable little shoes.

The following took place when we got him home and put his shoes on:

Now I'm not a proponent of 'crying' pictures... I don't think it's nice.. but this was just to classic to miss:

Please don't think I'm a bad mom.. moments later:

The shoes get put on the dresser - only to be brought out on the 'special' occasion of going to the gym. I sign him in and set him down... 45 minutes later the kid hasn't moved.

I'd like to say the situation has improved.. but I'd be lying. If he has his shoes on in the car - he screams... if he has them on in the house - he screams. I bought him Converse softies - and he tolerates them but in the car he pulls at them and screams.

So I ask: Who needs shoes???? Well evidently if they are MOMMY shoes they are OK...

Silly boy!

Smile!

2008-12-16T09:20:00.000-08:00

Probably all toddlers love taking pictures, Jarod is certainly no exception. As I was transferring the pictures from the camera to the computer to post long over-due photo's I was bombarded with pictures of the tile, the couch, the dogs, the cabinets, feet, Jarod's nose, etc. To start the picture extravaganza I thought I should post his pictures.

Funny thing - I'm always the one behind the camera so there are never any pictures of me... well with Jarod at the controls I've suddenly appeared.

As a side note: he will be receiving his very own kid friendly camera for Christmas.. then he can take 'smiles' whenever he likes.

Jarod - the master photog

2008-12-16T09:18:00.001-08:00

The bare November

2008-12-03T20:59:00.000-08:00

Wow - I did a terrible job in November. I guess my excuse would be - I didn't have anything to say. But I guess that's not exactly true.

My birthday was really good... enough said.

Jake and I celebrated our 7th anniversary on the 16th. In true fashion - we did nothing.... enough said.

My moms birthday was on the 24th - she's old. We had a mini-family gathering on the Sunday before to celebrate... enough said.

On Tuesday the 25th, after a call from my boss I found out I will no longer have my job after Dec. 31st... What can you say?

Thanksgiving was NICE. My mom, dad and Becca all were staying here with us. And of course my brother was over for Thanksgiving dinner. My mom and I made the pies on Tuesday. We sort of went crazy - I think there were 8 pies... and only 6 adults... that was FUN and yummy. I made the turkey - it's actually something I'm pretty good at. Everyone said it was great. I pat myself on the back... good times!

Now we are headed into Christmas and a busy December. Next weekend we are all headed to my parents for the annual Elephant Butte Luminario Festival. Last year the wind was so horrible it didn't happen (first time in 7 years they said). They line the lake with luminario's and the boats all get decorated and they do a floating parade. It should be fun!!

As though Christmas could mean more.. here in the Weeks house it is also the very memorable day of Jarod's birth. Seriously how could 3 years have gone by already? Mostly I'm ready for about 4 1/2. We'll see if we live through 3.

And in case you are wondering 'so mb what are you going to do now'. I just don't know. I have been pondering and praying and talking and doing it all over again. Working outside the home really isn't an option for a few reasons. The biggest being I can't send my kids to daycare 45hours per week. I have been playing with a few ideas that will keep me at home.. we'll see how those ideas develop. If I think back 8 years ago (that's how long I've been with my company)- I can't even begin to put to words how much I've grown in various directions. Professionally I've grown leaps and bounds. Personally who'd have ever thought you'd hear me say 'I want to stay home with my KIDS'.

Hopefully December will be a better posting month. I need to put up pictures of the boys.. they are growing TOOO quickly!

Someone's turning 30!!! tomorrow....

2008-11-04T07:15:00.001-08:00

Can you guess who? I'll give you a BIG hint... this person also happens to be the author of this blog.

Did you get it??? ME!! ME!! ME!!

I've been pretty excited about it - for no good reason. When I think 30 I don't think it's any big deal. BUT when I say 'I'm going to be 30' holy cow it sounds old (not as old as my dad old but still pretty old). Sarah has been dating boys and she knows one who is super cute but he's 28 and she says 'that's soooo old'. I said 'that's still younger than I am... do I seem that old?' She says, 'no not really'.

Some years I don't know what I want my family to get me for my birthday (and most years I don't care if I get something or not - but considering the significance of this year.. I've almost demanded gifts). I even knew exactly what I wanted (somethings are going to have to carry over to Christmas - my list was pretty lengthy).

Here's Jake's gift to me:

Let me just say - I LOVE IT!!!!!! I've had a 'smartphone' for about 4 years now and this one is by far the best one. There are a few things I miss about my Windows based phones - but most of the features on this one make it so I don't care. If you even 'think' you want a Blackberry - DO IT!! (BTW I did not get paid to say that - bummer).

My MIL sent me a gift certificate to LL Bean. Little did she know I've been eying a pair of sheepskin slippers at Shoes on a Shoestring and LL Bean has some. So last night I put my order in for:

So does wanting slippers seriously put me in the OLD category? Seems like it's something my Granny would have asked for. TO BAD!!! I'm so excited I can't wait for them to get here.

And finally my parents. Well technically they are going to be a little late - just because my mom won't be here until Friday. But I've requested a large capacity (over 6 quart) pot/steamer (with lid - very important these days). So HOPEFULLY this is what I will get:

I'm also not ashamed to campaign for as many Happy Birthday's as I can get! I will also campaign on my Facebook (Just to make me feel good about myself turning so 'old').

So here's to my first 30 years.. and I guess to my next 30 (may they be better and RICHER than the first 30).

A Walking Zachary

2008-11-03T11:19:00.000-08:00

As I posted he took his first steps a little over a week ago. This video was taken on Monday.

And as we sit today he is doing more walking than crawling - even when he wants to get somewhere fast!

WTG Zach-attack!!!

He walked!!! He walked!!!!

2008-10-23T19:56:00.000-07:00

Zachary has been cruising on the furniture for months.. we thought for SURE he'd walk before Jarod did (right at his one year birthday). Nope.. has all the balance and strength - just no gumption to do it. Well tonight he was in the kitchen holding a bunch of cups not paying any attention and he took a step. My mom and I both looked at each other like: did you see that??? Then she said 'do some more while you aren't paying attention'. And on queue - about 3 more steps. He then went into the other room and promptly stood up all by himself. He did several more 3ish steps and was so proud when we cheered him on. Papa got home from work and he wouldn't show off his new skill (my dad has been working with him at least 2ce per day since last weekend) he was toooo tired. Of course I left the camcorder at home b/c what exciting could possibly happen while I was out of town for a few days? Argh!! I'll catch it when we get home. He's going to be running down the halls in no time!!!

And... they're off!

2008-10-23T10:27:00.000-07:00

I don't know quite what happened. Last week was a little rough - Zachary required ALL the attention and to be carried everywhere making Jarod a little uptight. So I was doing OK until Saturday... sleep had been interrupted all week and the boys were sitting across the couch from each other SCREAMING at the top of their lungs. Luckily Sarah came home while I was in the pit of despair (please re-watch Princess Bride) and volunteered to take Zachary out to the mall.. oh how nice it was! Jarod even went and took a nap with me.

Sunday wasn't much better - Jarod's nose started running and Zachary was STILL screaming. My mom and dad came down as they both had doc appts on Monday. I tried to convince my mom to stay for a few days. She was FULL of excuses about why she couldn't stay... no medicine... didn't bring clothes.. etc. So I told her 'if you don't stay we are going back with you'. So Monday evening I packed up the boys and we left to my parents. Sarah said 'I really thought you were kidding when you said you were going to go'. I told her nope and she says 'yeah I can see that'. She wanted to know how long I was going to stay and I told her til I was tired of being here. She said she'd give me 3 days.. I told her I packed 4 pairs of underwear.

So far we've just been relaxing (as much as you can with 2 small boys who both have severely gross running noses). I've been working... my moms been helping me with the boys. I actually have decided she's going to kick us out b/c we are a NOISY group of folks!

So that's what we are up to.

Thursday, October 9th - 4:30am

2008-10-12T10:51:00.002-07:00

There is voluntary activity in the Weeks / Smith household. As was the case 2 years ago when my mother-in law (Julie) and sister-in law (Abby) rolled into town during balloon fiesta, I INSISTED that my visiting mother (Jeanette) we head over to Balloon Fiesta park for the special shapes mass ascension. I advised both parties that it would hurt mightily but it would be completely worthwhile.

This year - I was especially right. It was one of the coolest experiences. There were so many special shapes that at one point I said 'hey mom look there's a something' and she says 'oh yeah I saw that one taking off'. (I'm slow).

The boys both had a great time. Everywhere Jarod looked he'd say 'look there's a something' or 'look mom what's that'. At one point Zachary saw a balloon that was to much for him and he did his I'm completely excited talking and expressions (see pictures).

After the special shapes were all off the ground they cleared the field for competition. The idea was the balloons would take off (from a field just to the north of balloon fiesta park) and they had to pilot to the park where they would drop a flag from the gondola to a designated 'pole'. The pilot who's flag was closest to the pole wins (I think they win money but I really don't know). There was a pole about halfway and the pilots would get close enough to touch it (they won nothing but mighty cheers from the crowd for that). There were HUNDREDS of balloons in this competition... they kept coming and coming and coming. All flying less than 50 feet off the ground in 75% of the cases. Remembering that you can not 'steer' a balloon... there were pilots that came across the field, headed west toward the river, came back north, then east and finally west BACK over balloon fiesta park. That was TRULY amazing. The Albuquerque box is what allows them to fly in a square - but I'd never seen it in action. The skill required to hit the winds going the correct direction at the correct altitude just blows my mind. Seeing all those balloons was just as cool as the special shapes mass ascension.

Of course we couldn't leave without purchasing a big huge bag of cinnamon roasted almonds. mmmm mmmm mmmm Both boys were asleep in the car before we were to far away from the park.

If I had to summarize it.. I'd use Jarod's words: Mommy that was AWESOME!

Balloon Fiesta - Special Shapes

2008-10-12T10:50:00.001-07:00

A year in the life of Zachary Aaron Weeks

2008-10-04T20:55:00.001-07:00

52 Weeks Ago

2008-10-03T19:30:00.000-07:00

I'm almost weepy... At this time 52 weeks ago I think I'd asked my mom about 5 times if my dad was really on his way to my house to watch Jarod so Jacob could come to the hospital and be with me b/c the baby (who was at this point nameless) was causing me pains (no epidural) and he must be on his way.

Wow! Of course weeks, months and years don't line up so Zachary's birthday isn't until Sunday but he was born on a Friday night - the day before Balloon Fiesta kicked off.

Time just flies... more nostalgia to come.

Jarod-isms

2008-09-30T15:30:00.000-07:00

This past week has been full of Jarod funnies so I thought I'd post them really quickly:

In the car waiting at Sonic (blurts from the backseat)-
Jarod: Oh my gosh, are you kidding me? Are you KIDDING me?

Outside in the courtyard waiting for me to come get in the car-
Sarah: Zachary stay away from the ants they can bite you. Sarah turns her back.
Jarod: ZACHARY GET AWAY FROM THERE THE ANTS WILL BITE YOU.

Sarah coming out of her room-
Jarod: Wow Sarah, nice glasses

Jarod at church on Sunday (it was testimony meeting which is when members of the congregation can get up and say whatever):
Jarod: Mom I want to go up there and talk

I know there were more - but when I started writing I forgot. So I'll have to remember and come back to it later. The kid is a kick a minute.

The weekend

2008-09-22T14:30:00.000-07:00

It's been busy since coming home. My mom stayed until Saturday (thank goodness we just wore her out on Friday and she decided to stay over). We did some shopping and just in general enjoying being home and together as a family.

Then on Saturday was the Young Women in Excellence Luau. I have been so incredibly stressed over the thing that I could hardly stand it. Then throw in our unexpected hospital stay and it was almost to much. But finally Saturday came and when we all got together it was really great. The girls had a nice time (I hope - they wrote thank you notes that said they did). Mostly.. I'm just glad it's over. That's my last major event of this year. I still have a couple of activities to do - but those are typically pretty smooth.

Now we are to Monday. I've been chasing my tail all day. Completely forgot and missed a visiting teaching appointment (after reminding my companion about it earlier in the morning)... I've gotten my floors halfway done - which is a GOOD thing.. they were driving me insane. And now I'm back to working and debating on going to the gym later... something I REALLY need to do - but I'm already just exhausted.

Get me outta here!!!

2008-09-22T14:23:00.000-07:00

Just for myself really I'm posting about leaving the hospital....

After 3 days of entertaining I was sooo over it! I was worried about Zach's IV but the nurse said it was fine (it was in his foot). Then about 40 minutes into his IV antibiotics he popped it out. So she stopped it and said we'd wait for the docs to tell us to put it back or not. So about 4 she called the doc to ask what to do (as we STILL hadn't seen them) and they said to leave it out until they came down. About 5:45 they came in (smart me said 'ohhh good morning'!!!) Anyway they looked at him... showed me how to take care of his 'dressing' and told us we could leave. I was soooooooo excited!!! Then I called Jake and said 'take your time but come back up here and get us - we are out of here. However the doctors and nurse were super quick writing up those discharge and they were done within a half hour. I called Jake and he was doing exactly what I said... taking his time - he hadn't even left the house yet! We had to wait for him for about 45 minutes but then all was right with the world as we came home. Whew! Zachary goes in on Thursday for a follow up. But so far I think he's doing great! I'll have to try to get some video of him pushing/being dragged around behind Jarod on his tricycle.

And... we're... HOME!!!

2008-09-17T20:09:00.000-07:00

I'll post more jibberish about it tomorrow - but for now I just wanted to update that we blasted out of that joint this evening! YAY for being home. I'm soooooo looking forward to my own bed - and an uninterrupted by noisy nurses sleep!

Deja - Hospital

2008-09-17T08:32:00.000-07:00

So last year on September 20th I had to go into the hospital 31 weeks pregnant with Zachary and stayed for 4 days... fast forward almost exactly a year to Monday September 15th:

Zachary has had what the doctor thought was a lymph node infection. He'd been on antibiotics for 11 days yet he still had a huge lump on his left jaw so we headed back to the pediatrician on Monday morning. She looked at him and called up to the University Hospital to talk with the pediatric ENT (ears, nose and throat doctor). The ENT told her Zach should come in and in all likely-hood be admitted for IV antibiotics. So we headed to the pediatric ER at UNMH. Sure enough the ENT came in and said 'yep he's staying and also we need to drain that infection out'. Because Zach is a baby that has to be done in the operating room. So yesterday morning (thank goodness early b/c of course they'd cut him off eating at midnight) he headed into surgery. It was really very quick - I was back with him within an hour of them taking him. He woke up alert and happy and really not a care in the world.

For the surgery they had to make a little incision (now he matches his dad) and they drained out all the yuck. Then they stuffed it full of this stuff that looks like string. The wound has to heal from the inside out (obviously so the infection doesn't come back). He's got this elf hat on so that they don't have to 'tape' anything to his face to cover up the infection site.

So here we sit... he's on IV antibiotics so that's why we haven't left yet. Imagine keeping an 11 month old happy while having an IV in his foot and not letting him on the floor to play (which is life to him). Later this morning the ENT team is coming in to check on him and hopefully the doctors will tell us how much longer he has to be on IV antibiotics - then we can go home!!! I'm expecting that it will be tomorrow - but I do have a secret wish that she'll let us go later tonight after his 6pm antibiotics... all will depend on his culture that they took of the bacteria - as long as the antibiotic is killing it we'll be doing good.

I hope that this hospital trend ends this year!! I sure don't want to spend another 4 days in the hospital next year.

TBC

The Weeks-end on the lake

2008-09-17T08:26:00.000-07:00

So last weekend Rebecca had some friends come down to the lake to celebrate her soon to be 16th birthday (Sept 21st - oh my!!). Being the amazing sister I am - I volunteered to taxi them. So we headed down on Friday afternoon and then on Saturday morning we got a boat. Because Rebecca works at the marina (really she's only worked there once but dang the perks you get) she gets to rent boats for free - only pay for the gas. We wanted to get a ski boat but they were all taken - so we got a pontoon boat which turned out to be great b/c we got my mom on the boat too.

I got to learn how to drive (sloooooooooooow boat) but for the first time I guess that was OK. The boys had a great time! Enjoy the pictures!

Zachary on the boat

2008-09-17T08:24:00.001-07:00

Jarod out on the boat

2008-09-17T08:17:00.001-07:00

Zachary will not be outdone!!

2008-09-10T20:50:00.000-07:00

Hello.. my name is MaryBeth and I'm a diet Dr. Pepper-aholic... it's been about 30 minutes since my last can was finished.

Needless to say - I passed on my problem to Jarod... who will ask for a 'pepper drink' when we go to Sonic (or sometimes even when we are driving around and we pass a Sonic and he'll ask 'mom can we get a pepper drink'). Sad.. sad.. sad (I can see my mother-in-law shaking her head).

So the other night Sarah and I were both sitting at the island on our computers and Zachary was just wondering around. I hear the trash next to me crinkle and I look over to this:

A picture is worth a thousand words... but let me just add some of my own... that would be my 11 month old.. in the trash... having found a pepper drink.. and knowing EXACTLY what he's supposed to do to get some of that deliciousness.

And this is mom attempting to take it away:

Jarod's Pictures

2008-09-10T20:44:00.000-07:00

The first few are when we got on the bus to go to the fair. As you can see... he does the peace sign great - to bad when you ask him how old he is he pretends he's never practiced!

The others are from the other night when he and DJ got a hold of the camera and took 75 completely random pictures. Please excuse his dirty face - it was dirty but man the camera makes it look waaay worse!!!

Oh and while on the subject of Jarod - he did the greatest thing tonight!!! He went potty in HIS potty!!! I've wanted him to sit to pee - so as not to have to clean up 'oops' well evidently if he's going to pee he's going to do it the 'right' way - upright! He took his diaper off and sat down himself - no prompting (I've given up on trying to coax him into doing it) and then he stood up and low and behold PEE! Now only a mother with 2 young children - both of whom are in diapers can truly appreciate the excitement of the 'first pee'. But since this is technically my 'diary'... I guess you all get to share! LOL (He can beat me later - then apologize when his child does it).

Jarod, Jarod and umm.. more Jarod

2008-09-10T20:43:00.001-07:00

Oh see how they've grown!!

2008-09-10T20:35:00.001-07:00

Fishing at the Lake

2008-09-07T13:24:00.001-07:00

Jarod at the lake

2008-09-07T13:17:00.001-07:00

Zachary at the lake - he LOVES the water

2008-09-07T13:14:00.001-07:00

Balmorhea - Scuba Class

2008-09-07T11:01:00.001-07:00

Stolen from a friends site.. but I thought it was cool!!

2008-09-07T08:00:00.000-07:00

visited 37 states (74%)
Create your own visited map of The United States or determine the next president

The long weekend

2008-08-30T13:20:00.000-07:00

Ignore the 'timeline' as it's off - I'm just finishing up the post that I started last week...

Really I haven't got a lot to say about the long weekend - mostly I was just going to jabber about various things this past week.

We had a great time at my moms house last weekend. We spent all day Saturday at the lake. Jarod wanted to go ride on a boat soooo badly! But DJ showed up later in the afternoon fishing license and rod in hand and so they went fishing. DJ caught 3 little catfish and Jarod thought that was GREAT. However, the best part were the worms. Jarod took to two of the longest worms in the tub and well - put them through the ringer and had lots of fun talking to them and giving them instructions. Then when it was time to leave - he didn't want to leave them behind. My mother and sister were appalled that I let him bring his 'pets' along for the ride home.. In the car he put them on his blanket and was telling them to go to sleep now (my mother was making snide comments about 'that's the only thing those worms can do now' - meaning they were already dead dead dead). Then he was telling them to wake up and was rolling them around in his hands. It was really a complete riot! I attempted to get him to give me his pets by bribing him with Dairy Queen ice cream - even ice cream wasn't enough temptation to give those worms to me. Finally though he did give in and he traded me his worms for ice cream. Such a BOY!! Fast forward to the current week and he's been asking for worms. So we were at the grocery store and I bought gummy worms. I kept telling him he could eat these worms... and he's telling me 'no mommy'. I told him again when I put him in his car seat that he could eat the worms that they were yummy - he proceeds to tell the worms 'don't worry worms I won't bite you'. I don't know where the kid comes up with this stuff.

We've had a houseful of sickness. The first wave came in the form of ear infections for both boys. Zachary was up ALL night one night so I took him in and drug Jarod with me. So the doc looks at his ears and yep he's got an ear infection. As we were leaving Jarod said 'hey what about looking in my ears'. So she said 'ok I can look'. Then of course he didn't want to let her - but I made him let her and he had one too. Then Monday Zach was acting and sounding still sick. I called the doc and she wasn't terribly concerned so I decided to just wait it out. Tuesday night he was up all night again so back we go (I draw the line at being awake all night). While I was waiting for the doctor I noticed that the left side of his face was completely swollen. I have ZERO idea how I missed that. It was also hard as a golf ball right under his jaw. The doctor thinks it's just an infection in his lymph node there. She gave him a stronger antibotic and had us come back on Friday. He slept Wednesday night and on Thursday was acting way more like himself. His swelling also looked like it was going down and his fever hadn't been so constant. So when we went in she looked him over and double checked her 'books' and said she still thinks it's just an infection and to watch it. Yesterday I sort of freaked out b/c his swelling was back and he was being a cuddle buddy again - but today he's back to being more normal. We'll see how it goes. In the meantime of all that - Jacob decides that he's got to get sick too and came home on Thursday with flu-like symptoms. He stayed home from work Friday and Saturday but didn't have much choice and went back today. I think he's feeling better though - I'm just hoping whatever he had doesn't spread.

Last night Sarah convinced me that we should go to the NM State Fair. I really love the fair - but I'm TERRIFIED of taking my children and loosing them in the crowds. Zach stayed home with Jake (a nice combination they could cuddle each other) and I took Jarod. I told him we were going to go to the fair on the bus when DJ got home (keep in mind he doesn't know what the fair is - he does know bus and he can't wait til DJ comes over). So DJ pulls up and Jarod sees him out the window and runs out and tells him 'common DJ lets go to the fair on the bus'. Of course it was way faster that anyone could make out except for me who'd been telling him for an hour we had to wait for DJ. Jarod thought the bus ride was GREAT! We went straight to the animals and saw bunnies, chickens, horses, cows and sheep (we couldn't find the pigs and Sarah's allergies were so bad by that point that she made us leave the animal area). Jarod stayed in his stroller except to pet the horses. And I'm pleased to report I didn't loose him once! LOL We went to the indian villiage where there was great food, music and dancing. Jarod found a new food to love - beans... from my Navajo indian taco. When we were close to home he says to me 'mommy I'm tired can we go home and go to bed'. Sheesh it only takes a $40 trip to the fair to tire out my kid.

This weekend we have planned to go down to the lake. Rebecca turns 16 on the 21st and has started working at the marina. Part of being employeed there is she gets to rent any type boat she wants. She's going to have her birthday party on a house boat and then on Saturday take out a speed boat and go skiing with some of her friends that I'm taking down with me. It should be fun! I can't wait for Jarod to FINALLY be able to ride in a boat.

Wow! That was a handful! Sorry it's so long.... Enjoy the pictures.

Zachary Walking

2008-08-19T20:58:00.000-07:00

I swear it wasn't that long ago that I was posting Zachary's first crawls and already I'm having to post his first walks. This toy is one of Jarod's favorites and it's been put up for over a year - it's fun trying to get Jarod to 'share'.

I figure if Zach is going to walk he might as well get a move on - it's definitely cleaner than crawling.

And so... here's my little boy... learning to walk. (Please excuse his lack of clothing. It was about 730 this morning and he'd just gotten out of the shower).

Will life be normal now?

2008-08-19T20:07:00.000-07:00

It seems like the summer has flown by in a huge blur. It's been packed with vacations and moves and work trips and activities. It doesn't appear to be slowing down yet either. This weekend the boys and I are headed to my parents house to have a little 'fun in the sun'.

Last week I headed off to the ATL for work. It was a relatively productive trip. I got some training and cleaned up some things that have been 'dirty' for sometime. I can't say it was nice - but it's always good to go rub noses with my co-workers. They forget I do actually work out here!

On Saturday everyone was up super early and so I decided to take the boys to the zoo - by myself. We were there when the doors opened which was my plan... unfortunately the first series of exhibits were all being cleaned and so we missed all the monkey's. The earth may have stopped turning if the Rhino's had been put away - but thankfully they were out - eating. Then we hit the train and went over to the aquarium. Both great fun for Jarod who loves trains AND fish! Mostly it was just a HUGE accomplishment for me. I took them both myself, and we all survived and we didn't even want to strangle each other when we were done. It was fun to hear Jarod telling his daddy all about it when he got home from work.

Speaking of Jake he's got a panel interview for supervisor tomorrow afternoon. We've been waiting and waiting for this interview. I don't know how long it will be until he hears anything but we are hopeful. Also hopeful that he doesn't get stuck with an evening shift should he get the promotion.

I was prepared to spend some time downloading photo's when I realized my camera is DEAD and my charger is still at the other house. I'll swing by and pick it up at some point and get pictures up soon.

......and time flies

2008-08-05T12:57:00.000-07:00

I'm horrible! Here I promised to keep updated and I've let some things slide. I hope you all will forgive me for not having rambled on for a few weeks... especially once I ramble about what's been going on.

As everyone knows my mom, dad and sister have been planning their big move. Well - 2 weeks ago my dad calls me at 10:30pm and tells me that some friends of ours are having a scuba certification training on next Tuesday at the lake - would I like to go. Now that's a really silly question! However, fundage is a problem. After discussing it, my parents graciously give me one of the best presents I've ever gotten! However, that moved our moving time line way up. So we worked and worked at the big house to get them ready to pack up and be at the lake by 3pm Tuesday afternoon. In the midst - my little brother got ants in his pants to move into his new bachelor pad (otherwise known as my old house - with my beautiful lawn). By Monday night he had all of our beds and dressers to the big house... everyone on top of everyone.

Scuba class was great! We started in the water Tuesday night and that was fun watching everyone orientate to life under the water. Rebecca was a natural - all of her set up and movements in the water came super natural. Sarah did great too - although she's more analitical and so she was a little slower. I won't go into me... I've been before, knew I'd love it, and hmmm I 'think' I know my way around the water (at least without a regulator). On Friday we took off to Balmorhea State Park, TX. Jake took off Friday and Saturday so he could keep the boys so I could go play. Balmorhea was NOT what I was expecting. Really I'd pictured something like Bottomless Lakes - a little beachy area, some water, a big hole. Uh think again.. yes.. it's almost really a big swimming pool, with a hole in the middle about 14 feet deep. The days were LONG we were in the water from about 3 until 7 on Friday, then we were back at it at 830 Saturday until almost 4. Then we had to drive the 5 hours back to T or C. But it was still GREAT!!! There were some fish - who think you are going to feed them if you hold your hand out (think trying to make a bird come onto your finger - that's the fish), there were soft shell turtles, and then there was just the awe of being underwater for long minutes at a time. Needless to say now I'm trying to figure out how to make time in my schedule for diving. A little difficult as I'm the mother of 2 small children, work full time and I'm a wife (really need I say more than, wife?)

So now we've been home a week - and things are going. A whole lot of my things are still at the green house. As Ben was in a bit of a hurry he just put all my stuff into my old guest room. We got the majority of my kitchen last week - but there's still a lot left. I haven't really been diligent in going and packing up. Work has crazily picked up and I've just been swamped. I'd planned on getting everything done on Friday and Saturday but then my mom and dad came into town and well we just sailed right threw the weekend and nothing got done.

This week I'm headed to the ATL for work. I thought I'd gotten out of having to go. But then I got an email from my boss summoning me to the mother ship. The same week he told me to come they laid off 7 people in the office - making it more important that I hurry up and get there b/c they need me to take on more work. We'll see how that goes.

I need to post pictures - but I haven't downloaded them off the camera and at this moment I'm pretty tired. When I get back from ATL hopefully things will slow down and I'll be able to catch my breath. Stay tuned...

How could it be?

2008-07-15T11:06:00.000-07:00

That my little boy could already be 9 months old?? Wasn't I JUST pregnant??? Oh well - try as I may I guess I have no control over such things.

On Friday he had an appt with his gastro specialist. His spitting up has gotten worse, and it's terrible now that he eats real food. She told me that GERD (reflux) can peak between 8 & 12 months. This seems to be the case. HELP!!! She increased his medicines as he's grown enough to get higher doses. So far - I haven't noticed any difference.

On Saturday morning he went in to his Pediatrician for his 9 month appt. My little man now weighs in at 19lbs 12oz and is 28 1/2 inches long. He didn't have to get any shots and after looking him over she said 'well you can't get much more perfect than that'.

Other than the spitting thing (which I've decided is now full fledged throwing up) he really is doing great. He's mastered crawling and knows when he hears me behind him to speed up. He pulls up to his knees ANYWHERE there's help and up to his feet if he feels comfortable (namely in his crib and some chairs). He loves to walk if you help him. He's also found his vocal chords. His sounds range from flat out screaming when Jarod takes a toy away (and immediate stopage when Jarod gives it back), to a very annoying squak he uses to tell you all about his day, to his ba ba ba's (usually when he's crying) and ma ma ma's. All in all - he's a very busy boy! Oh and I forgot - last week his two top teeth broke through. He's now got 4 teeth and 4 more that'll be coming in any day now.

Which brings us to his big brother. Jarod is just fun (most of the time). He loves going to Donna's house (his babysitter) on Monday's and Friday's. I don't know what she does to him but he always takes an early afternoon nap. As I type he is sitting on the couch eating an ice cream cone - and getting it ALL over. He thinks he's big stuff. He loves going to the pool and to the gym especially when his friends Keegen and Emma go. He thinks they are the best! He also just talks and talks. One night while I was in Mexico it was thundering outside and Sarah's boyfriend DJ told him that the sound was 'tractors in the sky'. Well no when he hears thunder he says 'oh mommy what's that? Is it tractors in the sky?' Today I asked him if he really thought there were tractors in the sky and he basically told me yes because DJ had told him so.

The big moves still loom. But seems like time passes and nothing much gets done. Especially not at my house. I haven't even started thinking about it really. I've convinced myself I don't have all that much stuff to move so it'll be a piece of cake. I'm sure I'll regret thinking that but for now I choose to believe that's the case.

The 4th of July

2008-07-07T09:43:00.000-07:00

I might have said I was just going to rest on the 4th after being gone for a solid week. But both boys were up at 730 - and by 8 I decided we were going to the zoo. Called my mom, told her we were getting dressed and going - did she want to come. So off we head to the zoo (forgetting a pair of shoes for Jarod b/c the kid would rather go barefoot).

We had a GREAT time. Normally we go to the zoo and if we spend $5 that's a LOT... I don't know if we were all in the holiday spirit or what but I swear we probably spent over $100 between me, my mom and Rebecca. I bought Zachary a hat (see photo's) and I got myself a hat (which I had wanted to get in Mexico but never found one I liked - who knew all I had to do was go to the Rio Grande Zoo?) (for a peak at the hat see Jarod feeding the Giraffe). Then there was all of the feeding of the animals to pay for, the camel ride, the train ride, ice cream - the list probably is bigger.

It was already hot by the time we got there and a lot of the animals were in the water. Jarod's favorite Rhinocerus were all the way in the back of their exhibit in the shade... no matter how much he called for them they weren't going to come.

We had a great bbq at my parents house. Just the family and we had sooooo much food!! Later we lit off fireworks that Jarod started calling 'fireplace'. Then we walked down the block to watch the city fireworks display. Jarod liked it for about 10 minutes, then he was pretty much done: no more fireplace.. lets go for a walk to trama's (grandmas) house. Might have been he was so exhausted he could hardly stand up! Overall - a great day was had by all.

In other news: my parents finally set the date for their big move. Looks like moving will commence starting August 1st. They are supposed to hire a moving company - so that'll take a lot of stress out of the process but LOTS has to be done before that. We will probably start moving our stuff to the new house the weekend after.

The People on Holiday

2008-07-07T09:42:00.001-07:00

Jarod's Camel Ride

2008-07-07T09:41:00.001-07:00

Feeding the Giraffe

2008-07-07T09:40:00.001-07:00

The Zoo animals on Holiday!

2008-07-07T09:39:00.001-07:00

Playing at the Pool in T or C

2008-07-06T16:44:00.001-07:00

Zachary Playing Around

2008-07-06T16:36:00.001-07:00

4th of July

2008-07-03T16:13:00.000-07:00

Well - I wanted to take off to the lake today. My brilliant plan was we could stay at my parents new house... hit the lake, go out on the water, maybe (I have a couple of friends with boats). Well my dad found out that the little 12,000 people town swells to over 100,000 friendly folk over holiday weekends. He wanted NOTHING to do with it (and the house isn't even sort of ready for a sleep-over).

So - we went yesterday! My dad wanted to show my mom and sister the remodeling going on at the house and to get any requests before the contractor's plans were to far gone to be changed. Jake was off yesterday and today so I made him go with me (yeah that was fun). The boys did great on the ride (it's a bit over 2 hours). We also hit the motel pool yesterday evening. The water was FREEZING. I told everyone it was colder than the ocean was in Mexico. Jake had fun swimming with the boys. It's the first time he's been with us at a pool. (I have pictures of that - I'll post them later).

This morning we spent over an hour at McDonald's letting Jarod play on the huge slide. We've sooo got to get one for our new backyard.

The house actually is looking pretty good. The remodel is making it livable for my mom. Wider doorways, ramps, bathroom modifications, new flooring, carpeting, painting, fixtures, etc. I was worried that it'd be way to hard for my mom to get around. Although it won't be her brand new custom home - I think they are doing a really great job of making it pretty accessible. She'll need lots of Becca's help for kitchen things - but I'm a lot less worried after seeing the progress and the plans.

I'm telling her that I think she needs to do a little 'splurging' and get window treatments she loves, some pictures to put up on the wall... maybe a rug or two, some new lamps, entertainment center... really decorate it nice... should help it feel better.

Tomorrow Jake has to work (at least he gets holiday pay). The boys and I will probably just stay home and do nothing. I'm sort of out of tired out. Church has a big party in the evening, the only reason I'm thinking we may go is for the free food & it's at the park and Jarod LOVES the park!!!

One of Zachary's new tricks

2008-07-01T18:24:00.001-07:00

While I was gone, Zachary decided to sit himself up and evidently pulling up is in the beginning stages. This was just to cute!

And... she's BAAACK!!!

2008-07-01T08:40:00.000-07:00

Well I must say - 4 1/2 days is a long time to be away from my kiddos. But I'm home and hopefully I gained a few more doses of patience. Alright.. so I must tell all about my trip!!!

There were 7 of us, representing 19 children's moms. Of course we couldn't go all that time and not come up with nicknames.. I think we were sworn to secrecy to not tell who's was what.. but I went with Joy, Jamie, Tracy, Karen, Mieke, Sarah and me... I came home with Stubs, Boss, Juanita, Short Stuff, Jelly Belly, Webz and Nelly (unofficial I think).

We left Thursday and drove to Tuscon. We stayed with Mieke's inlaws (note to self: if you want to get somewhere... print your own map... Mieke is VERY helpful with 'oh shoot.. turn around that was it').

Friday we headed off to Rocky Point (Puerto Penasco). It took me about 2 minutes to toss my bags in a room, change and be ready for the beach. Funny enough.. everyone walked out on the beach, turned around and sat by the pool. Everyone that is but Jamie and I. I just drove 11 hours - no sitting by the pool for me!!! The only drawback to the beach is that there are TONS of Mexican's selling things... jewelry, hats, sunglasses, cover-ups, masks, porch decorations, etc. So you don't really have any peace b/c you are always saying 'no thank you'. Unless you are with Jamie, who looks at about everything and then you end up having to say no about 8 times before they finally leave after you've 'looked'. At around 9pm we decide that it'd be a good idea to go eat.. so we head to Hacienda de la something... directions: 'Ok go to main road.. there'll be a huge sign that says something something, can't miss it. We'll turn there then the restraunt will be down the street'... I think it was about 45 minutes after that we FINALLY found it. Sure enough the sign was unmissable... to bad we turned BEFORE it. However, the food was GREAT!!!!!!

That night as we were debating on sleeping arrangments Sarah and I decided that the couch bed would stink. So we found these long, thick foam pads, perfect little cot mattresses... we took them out on the balcony and all 3 nights we slept on our little pads on the balcony. Funny enough only one fly ever bothered me, although Saturday night I found a HUGE cocroach (before I went to bed) - which Tracy was kind enough to 'shew' off the side of the balcony.

Now Saturday was a great day!!! The girls wanted to go to town shopping... Can you hear the conversation in my head? beach.... shopping.... beach.... shopping..... hmmm Back to the beach I go with Jamie... 'have fun shopping girls! Find me a hat!!' When they got back they'd run into the friend of the family who owns the condo we stayed at. He and his wife are in the final stages of construction on their new condo... 15th floor, 5 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms (maybe 6) HUGE kitchen... and a balcony that would make anyone completely gah-gah. He had invited the girls over to the new condo. So off we went. We layed out at the pool and then he found us and took us up to see his new place. While at the pool Jamie and I decided that we'd really love to go parasailing - if the price was right. After looking at the new condo, the girls all went down to the beach to take a banana boat ride. Hmmm.. I was on the WRONG side. I got tossed 4 times.. the other side - once. It was fun.. but I lost my sunglasses (on my last toss). Then we went to find out about parasailing. After talking him down a few dollars, and scrounging around borrowing $$$ (since none of us brought down much) up Jamie and I went. Oh man - it was GREAT!!!! So peaceful.. it was super smooth and relaxing. I don't know what I thought it'd be like - but what it WAS like I loved!!! For dinner the girls went to a restraunt where the fixed up whole chickens right in front of you.. Hmmm.. lets see... who do you know who doesn't do bones??? I opted to stay behind and hold down the fort.. that turned into a nice little nap. That night we went down the beach for the sunset. All the girls went swimming in the ocean - all but me. I was FREEZING so the water wasn't appealing. Turns out - thank GOODNESS for cold!! I was just about to give in and go in when there's these screams coming from the water. I look over and the girls are all running out of the water. Turns out it was a great night for the jellyfish.. 3 of the girls got stung. Sorry girls!

Sunday everyone went off to church... I might have just stayed back and slept in. When I got up I went back down to the beach. I was down there about 3 hours (they'd gone shopping after church). Then we headed back over to the other condo to go to the pool. It was just a nice chill day. When we got back some of the girls decided to make dinner... but Sarah, Mieke and I went out on the quads. Lets just say I'm a WUSS!!! Sarah was INSANE... Mieke just drove fast.. and I was slow. I got stuck on a hill - couldn't get it in reverse.. Sarah had to come up and rescue me.

I'm sure the girls thought I was anti-social... I had just drove 650 miles- I was going to be at the beach as much as possible! They'd look around - and I'd be gone. Love you girls - but I'm a beach bum!!!!

Although I had an absolute FANTABULOUS time I was very ready to come back home to my family. Zachary was very excited and all but wiggled out of his swing to get to me. Jarod said 'oh there's mommy' then waited a couple of minutes before running to me and making me pick him up for hugs and kisses. Jake might have felt left out b/c I hugged and loved on the boys before going and giving him his loves. (Sorry hunny).

I really would like to try to go back soon. The drive wasn't horrible - and the beach was WONDERFUL!!!

Rocky Point Sunset

2008-07-01T08:39:00.001-07:00

The Girls in Mexico

2008-07-01T08:35:00.001-07:00

Hey... Lame-O

2008-06-25T16:16:00.000-07:00

So I finally decided to cruise around and find some of my friends blogs... BIG mistake!!!

First - when I think of blogging - really I think funny commentary. Well anyone who ever reads my nonsense knows there's no funny going on here (no matter how hard I try to think of lame jokes)! I hooked up with a friend of mine from when I was a kid... blogging was MADE for her! She's insane hilarious. Then you have my other friends who have great pictures of a Tim McGraw concert... the beach... check out my pictures - MY PLANTS! Seriously now that's funny stuff right there.

Anyway - I've decided that I get to top the list of lame bloggers!

In other news: MOMMY LEAVES FOR MEXICO TOMORROW!! WAAAHOOO. Ok - really now I'm getting a bit nervous. I have been really fine about it... until today. Now I'm freaking out just a little. I know the boys (Jarod and Zachary) will be fine... mostly. I'm worried about Jake having to do full duty for 5 days... I'm worried about Jarod at night - since he can't usually go to bed unless I'm cuddling with him. I'm worried that Zachary will flip out b/c his mommy is nowhere to be found. Well I guess they all HAVE to be ok.

And this story really should make you crack up. Last night Jarod and I went to a 'meeting'. I took Jarod b/c the girls house it was at has a daughter who's just a couple of months younger than Jarod. So the two of them were in the backyard playing and I look out and Payton had taken her diaper off (she's in the midst of potty training and going commando is totally cool). So her dad goes to take her inside to get dressed and he starts laughing b/c Payton had on Jarod's camo flip-flops (and no diaper)... She gets dressed and heads back outside to play. Next thing you know her dad comes running through the house with the camera... Jarod and Payton were outside 'cuddling' on a tarp in the yard. So he starts out the door and happens to catch (on camera) my son, leaning in and giving his daughter a big ole kiss-a-roo. I thought I'd DIE!!! The pictures are GREAT... he caught them in the second before lips locked... then he caught the kiss... then they got embarrassed because everyone was laughing and they laid back down 'cuddling'. I asked them to email them over (and told them I intended to put them on my blog) and her dad says 'that's cool.. you can't tell it's my daughter' LOL. Now - how often does a dad catch on camera his daughters first kiss???? It was cute - but mostly totally embarrassing. Jarod - my Casanova! Pictures coming soon......

So until next week - this is my life... signing out.

June Plants - Part 2

2008-06-25T15:08:00.001-07:00

June Plants - Part 1

2008-06-24T08:26:00.001-07:00

Wow! My new backyard!

2008-06-24T08:21:00.001-07:00

Saturday

2008-06-21T12:25:00.000-07:00

So this week has definitely been fun. We've been to the pool a couple of days and there's been a little bit of shopping (mommy has to have some new things for Mexico)!! While at the pool on Wednesday Jarod had to be 'rescued' by the lifeguard. (HUGE EMBARRASEMENT). He was following his friend who is a foot taller - and just stepped a step to far. I was right behind him, but he was right under the lifeguard who couldn't see me right there. She jumped in and I was less than an arms length away. Ugh it was terrible (for me not Jarod..)

Yesterday I took my van into the shop to have a maintenance check done. I'm driving for the girls trip and I wanted to make sure it was road trip ready. Of course they called me and told me all these things are wrong with it - total cost to fix over $700. Begin the freak out!! So I called my dad and asked him if he'd help Jake look at all the things the shop said were wrong (meanwhile pricing the parts at Autozone to find that parts alone were less than $150). So this morning we've been over at my parents while Jake and my dad look at the car. Only thing wrong: needs new rear brake pads (hmmm I already knew that)... Lucky for me my dad has always worked on his own vehicles! He was a bit upset that they had tried to 'swindle' me. I'm mad too! I took it there b/c it's been in before and they did a great job!

On Thursday afternoon the girls trip will officially commence! I'm really getting very excited. I bought a new swim suit and I'll be going for an outfit for our evening of Salsa dancing. WOOHOO!! BEACH HERE I COME!!

I need to take new pictures of my plants - as it's been a month since the first set - for comparision of course. All are still surviving except one lousy daisy (I had 2 - they are VERY particular!!) Pictures of that coming soon.

Wish I had something funny or note worthy to report... but since I don't... I'll stop rambling.

What a week!

2008-06-17T10:25:00.000-07:00

It sort of flew right by... mostly because I've been sick since last Tuesday. We were working in the yard on Tuesday and by the time I went to bed I was SICK. I think all the dust from the rocks just took their toll on my sinuses. On Friday I took Jarod to the pool and by the time we came home I was back in bed sick again. Yesterday I attempted to go to the gym but after about 45 minutes of lifting weights I felt TERRIBLE so we left (we were supposed to stay for a spin class).

Zachary is really crawling now - on all fours! I've got some video that I will get up soon (I don't know how to get it off the camera and Jake hasn't helped me yet). Today he discovered there is a complete world outside of his rug! Faster than I could put him back on the rug than he was off again. So I spent some time cleaning floors this morning.

Jarod had a BUSY week. Everyday Papa and his minions were over working in the yard. Papa let Jarod help him on the tractor and both had a great time! I couldn't keep Jarod in the house while the boys were outside working b/c he HAD to help. On Saturday we had a minor catastrophe.. Jarod was given a toy skid loader by DJ one day... since then he's let it out of his sight for only minutes at a time... well he must have set it down in the dirt but next thing you know - the real skid loader had crushed it! He didn't see it in pieces but kept coming inside asking 'where's tractor'? So off I had to go to try to replace tractor and of course there were none like it anywhere! I finally found one that seems to be OK... although he's not as attached to it as the original tractor.

I received my review last Tuesday and it was really positive. I have in writing from my boss the works 'outstanding' and 'good job'. I sometimes feel like they leave me out here to fend for myself and it was nice to know that all the fending I do was noticed.

For this week not much planned. Of course there will be trips to the pool and I HAVE to clean. A week of being sick with workers at my house has turned it UPSIDE DOWN.

Jarod

2008-06-17T10:23:00.001-07:00

Boys at play

2008-06-17T10:22:00.001-07:00

Jarod gets Grandma

2008-06-17T10:19:00.001-07:00

Jarod's visit to the aquarium

2008-06-17T09:54:00.001-07:00

At the pool with Grandma and Grandpa

2008-06-17T09:22:00.001-07:00

The Weeks Review

2008-06-09T15:14:00.000-07:00

Now that's pretty snappy don't you think????

Well... now... lets start at the very beginning. My dad and his minions have been working in my backyard - putting down the rock that is edging my grass. Mostly it's been a lot of dirt moving... but as of now - I have crusher fine and flagstone down. Looks like they are close to being ready to start spreading the big stuff. This time I took 'before' pictures... so once it's done I'll post the pictures.

On Wednesday KD & Julie arrived. Zachary took straight to Grandpa's beard... I'm sure there's a picture of that somewhere. We had a really nice visit; went to the zoo, the pool; chilled out at home. We had a surprise waiting for us when we got home from the Zoo - no electricity.. until the next day! Jarod thought the flashlights at night were GREAT! It also gave us an excuse to go out to eat - and we went to Zio's... Honestly I LOVED it. I thought the food was really good. I will be going back.

I hope KD & Julie had fun at the pool. Jarod is lots of fun to chase around and keep out of trouble and Zachary enjoyed just sitting letting the water run up to him. (Pictures of that excursion soon).

They left early this morning - their trips always seem to fly right by.

Sarah has been wanting to go to the aquarium for a couple of weeks so today we went. Jarod went back and forth through all the aquariums. Sarah finally had to pick him up and haul him out to get him to leave. Of course I have pictures of that too - and I'll post soon. The divers were in the big tank feeding the fish and the HUGE turtles were swimming around and that was cool. Jarod kept wanting to 'go see Nemo and Dory'.

This week I just have planned to go to the pool and work and go to the gym. I have a 'formal' performance review with my boss tomorrow morning. Akkk! Scary!! They have asked me to start doing my own billing. FUN! At least I get to learn something new - and all the mess-ups will now be because of me... instead of me telling 3 people at different steps to fix things.

And lastly - Jake's scheduled changes again tomorrow. So he'll be working 6a - 3 and be off Friday and Saturday. The reason this is noteworthy: it makes it so that me, myself and I can go to Mexico with my girlfriends the end of the month. WOOHOO I feel bad a little bit - leaving Zach-attach... but when I'm sitting at the ocean I figure I'll probably be OK. Sarah has VERY generously offered to stay home (she wanted to come with me and I would have liked that a lot) and take care of the boys while Jake is at work the other 2 days. What can I say... I've got a GREAT sister. Of course I'll probably owe her from now to eternity... wait... I have taken her to the ocean with me 2ce... hmmm I'll have to remind her of that.

Zachary.... really the crodile hunter

2008-06-08T13:28:00.000-07:00

Jake has been bugging me for a week to post these photo's.. so here they are. They really would wrestle but every time Jake got the camera Zachary would roll back over.

Look out Dr. Brady Barr - Zachary Weeks is waiting for his turn!

Zachary... Crocodile Hunterrrr....

2008-06-08T09:51:00.001-07:00

Animals mommy... Animals

2008-06-08T08:04:00.001-07:00

Jarod has been asking for a week to go see the animals... he LOVES the zoo. I've been telling him we'd go when Grandma and Grampa get here. So on Thursday off we went to Jarod's delight to see the animals.

First mistake: the adults were starving so we went and ate first... Jarod... not happy - although while we were sitting there we saw about 5 baby peacocks.

Second mistake: Jarod wanted to see the Rhinoceros (by that name)... but we decided to go see the polar bears and take a stroll through the cat walk... Jarod zoomed right threw all of it... wanting to see the Rhinoceros. Finally we went on Safari through Africa... I had my doubts that he'd even know when he saw the Rhinoceros.. well call me dumb.. he saw it... let out a huge 'Rhinoceros' and had a most delighted look on his face. We stayed looking at those Rhino's for quite awhile.. When one came to his feeding trough Jarod was calling it... and patting his chest (see pictures).

The last time we went Jarod had a great time feeding the ducks and huge fishes... this time... Jarod just wanted to eat the bread himself... great planning on my part as I had some seriously old bread to share... so we quit that experience.

I think a good time was had by all.

Who's at the Zoo?

2008-06-08T08:03:00.001-07:00

Jarod at the Zoo

2008-06-08T08:00:00.001-07:00

Some of the Zoo Animals

2008-06-08T07:51:00.001-07:00

We have.........a TOOTH

2008-06-02T09:07:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we were all sitting in church and Rebecca had Zachary... she gets a surprised look on her face and says 'oh my gosh.. I feel a tooth'. I thought.. yeah right! Sure enough.. my little bugger has cut his first tooth. It's on his bottom front.

Rewind to Friday: Zach was at home with Jake most of the day and has just been a fuss bum. Jake has said he thought it could be tooth related and I just passed it off. The kid has been drooling since he was 4 months old and we've had no teeth. It pains me to say.. but I guess Jake was right!

I swear by this time Jarod had several teeth... and I'm sure not looking forward to the first few coming in.. it's soooo not fun!! But yah for 2 milestones in a week: army crawl and teeth!!

What I enjoy...

2008-06-01T11:29:00.001-07:00

One of the greatest things about summertime for me... is flowers! It took me a really long time to find the flowers I wanted to fill out my planters. But for some reason this past week I just went flower crazy. So right now all of my planters are on the back porch - waiting to find their permanent homes. I figure since I'm keeping a 'journal' I'd just chronicle my plants success (or heaven help us; failure) right here. So here are pictures of my plants as I planted this past week. If I can keep them alive long enough to my move - I'll have no worries b/c the courtyard is a wonderland for growing flowers.

My flowers - May

2008-06-01T11:27:00.001-07:00

Jarod invades Zachary's bed..... While mom's not looking

2008-05-30T12:42:00.001-07:00

Some recent pictures of Jarod

2008-05-30T12:37:00.001-07:00

Zach swinging... and at the Anderson Reunion

2008-05-30T12:31:00.001-07:00

Finally!! A present!

2008-05-30T12:08:00.000-07:00

My Mothers Day present FINALLY arrived!!! I asked Jake if he could be trusted to pick out my 'mothers ring'. He looked at me... laughed and said... uhhhh no. So I asked him if I went and got it all ready - if he'd go back, order it and pay for it. He said that would work. Of course I waited until the Friday before mothers day... and it takes around 4 weeks... but at last it is here and it's BEAUTIFUL (IMHO).

I wanted Jake and I on the ends.. with the kids in the middle. Since I know we'll have one more (if one more person tells me we're having twins next I'll kick you) I added a 'filler' stone that I'll get changed when the next one comes along...

So it goes: Jake, Jarod, filler, Zachary and me. When we have the next one I'll move Zachary over and put them in order.

Jarod helping Papa - he LOVES working in the courtyard

2008-05-29T20:56:00.001-07:00

Boys at the Park

2008-05-29T20:39:00.001-07:00

Today's Activity

2008-05-29T18:57:00.000-07:00

We went to the pool for the first time this year! Zachary slept in his stroller - Jarod tried to remember all his tricks from last year... I hope it will continue to be enjoyable... I was a little worried b/c Zachary is so little. But we'll see!

Zachary Crawling

2008-05-29T18:56:00.001-07:00

Oh my!!

What's Up?!

2008-05-29T18:16:00.000-07:00

So this one will be a little lengthy.. as I catch everyone up and share a story or two.

I think the biggest news is that my parents are moving. My dad accepted a position with a company based here in Albuquerque, BUT the gig is in Truth or Consequences, NM (Elephant Butte; distance from me: 169 miles, 2 hours 41 minutes) population: approx: 12000 + 3 Smith's. It's a great career move for him, as he'll be overseeing 4 different segments of health care (for a private owned company), and expanding his horizons. The biggest advantage: if dinner will be ready for at 5:30 he can be home at 5:00 and set the table :o) My mom is looking forward to him being home, and not always run so ragged with this report or that report due: yesterday.

So where does that leave us? Well it looks like we'll be moving into the new house (after all someone has to keep it warm for when they are ready to come back). We've been working for 2 years on this house, the original plan was we'd fix it up and sell it. Somewhere along the way - I fell in love with it.. guess that comes from being a little spoiled by my father who's let me make all the renovation decisions. So I'm a little sad to leave - BUT... the new house has central air... TONS of room and so it's not all bad. Besides Sarah really doesn't want to move (she gets the pleasure of living with us while she figures out how to balance college, work, life)... and being the kind, loving big sister I am... well... guess she's a bit spoiled too.

Now the boys... well Zachary is crawling.. almost a completely honest to goodness crawl. As I type my Youtube video is uploading. Oh and next week he'll be 8 whole months old! How can this be??? He meets with a specialist once a month (b/c he was so early) to make sure he's not falling behind. So far he's doing great and on track with almost everything to his birth age, not his adjusted age (6 weeks behind). He is quickly growing out of his 'baby' toys.

Jarod.. well he's a laugh a minute. Case in point: last week I went to play bunko and left the boys with Jake... Jake hears the dog barking outside.. then he hears Jarod barking... he goes out to see what's going on... Jarod is squatted down, Mimi beside him... both barking at a bunny that had gotten stuck trying to escape from the grass out the back fence. Jarod is poking at it. (I was informed after the fact that had Jake captured that moment on camera we could have won some $$$... just hearing the story is enough to make me die laughing). I started taking him to a babysitter on Monday mornings for 3 hours... it's going really well. He also goes with me when I go to they gym and LOVES it.

Stay tuned to later posts for more on the boys.....

Jake is trying to get a promotion at work. We'll see what happens... right now it's equivalent of being strung along (IMHO).

Me.. I'm just working, being a mom and staying REALLY busy! This weekend I have massive cleaning scheduled. Jake's mom and dad are coming for a visit next week and well... the house is a mess! We love their visits and can't wait until Wednesday! I have a picture of Jake and his mom on my fridge and Jarod said the other day: Look mommy... it's daddy and grandma!

Coming soon: more rambling nonsense!

Ok - here we go again....

2008-05-29T18:07:00.000-07:00

Some of you may remember my previous attempt at blogging.. I did OK - for about 5 months... last time I posted on allaboutbabyweeks was in October '06.. Oops!!

So - it's summer and I'm starting anew! I read an article that said you should make a summer goal - an achievable one.. so my goal this summer is to get our family blog going. I'm going to try to write a few times a week... even if it's only something simple like something Jarod said.. or maybe something we did that day. Also - with Youtube and a new picture program a few of my friends are using - it should make sharing video and pictures much less tedious.

So!!! You have it in writing. Please feel free to share the address with anyone you think would be interesting in keeping up.

Oh and one more thing... PLEASE leave your comments! It'll be more motivation for me to keep on trucking when the going gets busy!