Little Men Blues

Blogs

2010-10-11T08:35:00.000-05:00

So who needs blogs with facebook. Your friends are on facebook, relatives even your mom. Family photos are posted on facebook, videos, everything. So why do people keep their blogs going?

I started this blog it was so everyone could hear about, see and enjoy our family. Now everyone is on facebook (except my Dad. He is the lone hold out). So what do I do? Do I keep the blog? Do I change it? If I could I would write about antics at work. Being a Public Defender can be, at times, quite amusing. However I would be breaking many rules so alas I can not.

I guess my question is, can anyone give me any good reason to start up this blog again? If you can comment on this post. I'm sure you'll just comment on my status instead.

One month in

2009-07-30T19:59:00.004-05:00

Well, we're one month into being a family of four and you know what, it's going pretty well. When people hear how far apart the boys are, 17 months, they tend to say, "you must have your hands full". We do, but we wouldn't have it any other way and we don't know any different.

Elias is a great older brother. He rocks Oliver, checks on him when he's crying and rips his socks off. Okay that last part isn't super nice. Sometimes Elias gets frustrated but that's to be expected. He tries to smack Oliver on the leg when he's nursing or pokes him in the head. Overall, not too bad.

The Big Man just turned 18 months old. He can pick out some animals when asked, knows some numbers and can say plenty. Mostly we don't understand what he's saying, but he sure gets a kick out of it. He also LOVES Wheel of Fortune. When we say, "Pat and Vanna" he runs to the TV. I know, I know kids are not supposed to watch TV but that's really all he watches and he shouts out letters, so he is getting educated.

Oliver, the Little Man, is getting big as well. He's just four weeks old. Since we're veterans in the parenting biz now our Doc said we could skip the one month visit and move right on to the two month. He was back to his birth weight by his 2 week appointment and looking good.

Brad and I and the boys have had plenty of adventures. Oliver is already a man about town. The Arboretum, the splash pad and about 500 trips to Target. He are some pictures and to top it off my lovely, wonderful, adorable boys!

Now for seconds...

2009-07-03T15:09:00.003-05:00

For those who've followed our blog over the last 17 months, you'll notice a significant change. The blog name is now plural, reflecting the very recent addition of our second son, Oliver.

As we move forward in another exciting phase of our life, we'll chronicle the adventures of Oliver and older brother Elias.

Stay tuned.

Our little Tiger

2009-06-20T20:08:00.001-05:00

neglect

2009-06-08T07:25:00.004-05:00

Okay, so I've been neglecting the blog. I can't help it. We've had a lot of things going on recently. First, Little Man had his procedure. All went well but it was the scariest thing I've ever had to go through. I'm sure it will be followed by broken bones, stitches and many more trips to the hospital but he's still so little. He took it like a champ. The whole family spent the night in the hospital and Gramma Bette came down to help on Thurs. Little Man got to watch a lot of TV for a couple of days since he was supposed to stay off his feet.

We head back to the Doctor on Monday to make sure the plug is still in place in his heart and then he doesn't go back for a year. By that time the tissue should have grown around the plug and it is like another working part of his heart.

Also six months from now we should have a 5 month-old in tow. Baby Oliver is due in four weeks. I'll have to say, boy am I ready. This pregnancy, even thought it went faster, was tougher. No leisurely naps or sleeping in until 9 a.m., but in the end it will be all worth it.

So I'll leave you with Elias eating a Popsicle.

New, new, new

2009-05-04T12:06:00.004-05:00

New haircut, new basketball hoop, new picnic table, lots of smiles!

Nice to see you again....

2009-05-01T11:40:00.001-05:00

Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy

Happy Easter

2009-04-12T19:42:00.003-05:00

Hope everyone had a great holiday. At our household the Easter Bunny came and Elias did a little egg hunt in the backyard. He also got some wonderful things from the Grandparents.

I enjoyed the day waddling around behind Elias. Oh the joys of the third trimester. I had a nice bought of sciatica today that was nearly debilitating. I actually had to lay down for a while to be able to walk around. Thankfully it went away. Hopefully I can convince my Ob/Gyn to send me to message therapy.

I never had sciatica with Elias. I've talked to a couple people who've had more than one child and they've told me the second is much harder than the first pregnancy. I think the second is harder just because you're chasing the first (or second) one around. Just like other things in pregnancy I guess it prepares you for all the running around you'll need to do when you have two!

Shout Out

2009-04-05T09:59:00.002-05:00

Congratulations to Gus, Michelle, and big sister Liza on the birth of Jake on Tuesday March 31st. He was 8 lbs. 2 oz. and 21 inches. Elias can't wait to meet you!

Slacker

2009-04-02T12:10:00.004-05:00

Okay, so I've been totally slacking on the blog but I'm tired. Seriously! I haven't had a good nights sleep since November and I'm chasing a 14 month-old around. But enough of my complaining, here goes.

Elias is doing wonderful! He's walking like a champ. He can say about 20 words but his favorites are "I'm done", "down", "Mom", "Dad" and a whole handful of others. He can take our keys and try to unlock the doors, attempt to put on his shoes and socks and even tries to take his own shirt off. Elias knows how to comb his hair and is getting so big I'm thinking he'll be monkeying his way out of the crib pretty soon.

Elias had his first sleepover on March 21st at Gramma Sonny's and he was a wonderful boy. Mom and Dad got to go into the city have some lunch, shopping, dinner but that was the extent of it. Being six months pregnant doesn't allow for too much clubbing.

Oh and Elias loves to dance. When you sing "dancing, dancing, dancing" he'll move his feet like Fred Astaire. He has also developed an attachment to Elmo, which I find strange since he's only seen Sesame Street a handful of times. Those toy product designers really know their stuff.

The new baby is also growing, kicking and having fun with my bladder. He's different than Elias in that he does sleep at night and not have a soccer tournament but I still don't sleep. He loves to kick when he hears Elias talking so he already loves his big brother. I'm not too sure the feeling is mutual yet but hopefully in about 20 years it will be :)

Other than that we're headed out to visit Anna, Katie and new baby Mikey this weekend so Elias can flirt with the girls and meet a new friend.

I forgot to add Elias got two teeth yesterday. Count 'em, two!

Weekly Giggle

2009-03-27T13:14:00.003-05:00

Click here for weekly giggle!

Shout Out

2009-03-25T12:47:00.004-05:00

Congratulations to Ken & Carla on the birth of their daughter Abigail. Check out Ken's blog for pictures and story!

Also, stay tuned for my post on our first night away from Little Man. We had a wonderful time and stayed in a sweet suite!

Shout out!

2009-03-11T19:42:00.003-05:00

Congratulations to Jon and Meera on the birth of their baby boy Nathan. He was born on March 10, 2009 at 2:50 pm. He is 20.5" long and has a full head head of hair!

The Irony

2009-03-09T13:11:00.003-05:00

I just clicked on the blog and lo and behold in the upper right hand corner was an advertisement for AirTran Airways having a sale. I find it funny that they decide to advertise on the blog after I ripped them a new you-know-what. Again, I repeat, DO NOT FLY AIRTRAN, EVER! I guess some companies will take bad publicity over no publicity!

Holiday Road

2009-03-06T10:57:00.006-06:00

Okay, now that I have decompressed from our Florida vacation a bit I can tell you why I hate AirTran airways and why all our vacation was missing was a Family Truckster.

We set out at 4:30 a.m. last Thursday for our Florida getaway. AirTran has a policy you arrive for your flight 40 minutes before take off. Well, we arrived 45 minutes before take off and the AirTran (ATA) customer service representative proceeded to tell us we needed to arrive 40 minutes before take-off so that our bags would be on the plane. When I kindly told him it was 45 minutes before take-off he basically said too bad. So without letting us know if the bag would be on the plane, what flight the bag would be on if it wasn't on the plane or what to do he shuffled us off to security.

Of course the bag wasn't on the plane and no one at ATA knew where it was. Long story short it wasn't until 7 a.m. the next morning that they located the bag and told us to come pick it up. That was after spending $150 at Target buying the shorts, t-shirts, suits and the toiletries we needed to actually start our vacation without our luggage.

Things were going beautifully until Friday night when my poor baby boy got the flu. He spent the entire night with his little head in a sand bucket throwing up every hour until about 3 a.m. He recovered beautifully and off to the beach we went on Sat. I did forget my camera but am hoping to get pictures from someone who didn't.

Sunday rolls around and we are going to meet our college friend Greg and his wife, who we haven't seen in 7 years. Guess who gets the flu! I spend the day throwing up. I do make it to lunch but gave Cafe Boulud bathroom a work-out.

Finally, Monday we're supposed to leave. As you all know, the East Coast gets slammed with storms and since ATA sucks our plane coming from White Plains, New York, is delayed 5 hours. After speaking with 3 different ATA people, telling me 3 different things, I finally get a supervisor on the phone who informs me, I'm supposed to be at the airport for the last 7 hours. When I proceed to ask him why, he tells me that if we're not at the airport an hour before our ORIGINALLY SCHEDULED DEPARTURE, not the delayed departure, they can give up our seats. I kindly explained to him that I'm not going to sit at the airport with a 13 month-old for 7 hours, and then asked him why they tell you to check the status of your flight before leaving the house. He explained that it is for the convenience of the people picking you up and not for the passengers. I again KINDLY told him if he saw the irony in making it more convenient for people who pick you up than the actual paying customers. He didn't find it funny.

To make an even longer story short, we rush to the airport and they end up bumping us off our flight and want us to sit stand-by with a 13 month-old in Atlanta. If we don't get on OUR flight, the one we PAID to be on, the next flight doesn't leave Atlanta for 10 hours. Of course ATA will not pay for a hotel since it is weather related. So as you all know, you can't really sit in an airport for 10 hours with a 13 month old so we opt for the next flight which isn't until WEDNESDAY. Yes, Wednesday. They could get us on a flight on Tues. but we would miss the last connection in Atlanta and have to spend the night there. Wow, thanks, that helps.

We opted for the Wednesday flight. Unfortunately the weather in Florida did not cooperate and it was about as warm there as it is today in Chicago. However, Brad, Elias and I had a nice day shopping in Palm Beach.

After all that we're home and yesterday night Brad got the flu! You gotta love traveling.

Doggate

2009-02-17T06:59:00.003-06:00

So silly me. I really want to get Elias a puppy. I was scouring adoption sights, filling out applications and making contacts. A beautiful chocolate lab puppy caught our eye in Indiana. We filled out an application and was in strong consideration. That's when I realized, "Oh My God" I don't think I can handle a puppy and two kids under two. I think when the realization of actually getting the dog hit me, I freaked. Believe me I really want the boys to grow up with a dog, and they will, but I don't think I can handle it right now. A newborn keeping us up all night, a puppy waking up the other hours, chasing after Elias, chasing after the puppy, my head is already spinning.

Brad and I talked it over and decided we're going to look into adopting a puppy next spring or summer. That way Elias will be 2 1/2 and the New Nolan will be about a year. I'm sure things will still be crazy, I have a feeling they are going to be around here for a while, but at least a bit more manageable.

However, if anyone is looking for an adorable chocolate lab puppy, or any dog, check out Petfinder and Sklyer. My heart breaks every time I look at him but I know that we can not provide enough time and love for him at this time.

Welcome Number 2

2009-02-10T07:14:00.007-06:00

So it's official. Brad and I are expecting our second boy. I always envisioned myself surrounded by my boys. Brad and I in the backyard playing football and soccer with the boys. Sounds like a dream to me. Plus bunk beds! I always wanted bunk beds and now I can get them for the boys. So here's a preview of Mr. Nolan.

Also, we're have a name debate and we want to know what you think! The middle name will be Dele (pronounced Dell)for my Grandmother Adele, but we want to know your opinion on the first.

Horrible Mother

2009-02-03T19:16:00.004-06:00

Okay so I'm a horrible mother. I never did a birthday post. Well between planning the party, picking up the food, running around, then taking a weekend for us, I just didn't have time. So here's my birthday post a few days late.

The party was fantastic. Elias had lots of friends come over including Carla, Ken, Liza and her parents, Alex, Auntie Erin and Mike, all the Grandparents and more.

At one-year-old Elias can say, Dad, Mom, duck, all done, nite, and red. He's almost walking and actually brings me things on command. When he picks up things off the carpet I tell him, "bring them to mommy" and he actually does. He can also give himself a round of applause (clap), raise the roof (so big), dance (he's got major rhythm). He likes to sort things on his shelves at Gramma Sonny's and our house and like Gramma Bette he loves coasters.

Elias eats almost everything. Tonight he had pasta and spinach with Mommy for dinner. He also loves Gramma Sonny's beef stew, pizza, bagels and a whole slew of other things. He took to whole milk like a champ and loves his water during the day and snacks.

After dinner tonight Elias and I danced. He boogied to Lauryn Hill and Mark Knopfler. Like his Grandpa Bill he's got great taste in music (except country music, still yuck).

So here's some pictures from the party and Little Man having his first taste of sugar. Surprisingly he liked it but didn't go crazy. I'm proud of him for that. I'd love to keep him off sugar as long as possible.

Finally, I apologize for the late post. Our laptop is finally back up and running so it's much easier to post when Little Man is sleeping. Hopefully I'll be updating more. See you soon!

Shout out

2009-01-21T21:31:00.002-06:00

Congratulations to Carrie, Matt and big sisters Anna and Katie on the birth of their little boy, Michael Matthew. He weighed in at 8 lbs. 10 oz. Elias can't wait for another new buddy!

Grandparents

2009-01-15T13:14:00.002-06:00

So now that we're approaching that milestone of one year it's given me time to reflect. Upon reflecting I realized I also have to give a big huge thanks to Elias' grandparents. Not only did my mom, dad and brad's mom take turns watching him when I went back to work, they also eased my apprehension, stress and worry. Thankfully we are one of the lucky few that gets to keep Elias out of daycare and the transition back to work wasn't as bad knowing he was in the hands his grandparents.

My dad, Bill, took the first shift and he fell back into changing diapers like a champ. He played Elias country music and they played lots of games. My dad also drives to see Elias once a month. Elias loves hanging out with Grandpa Bill. They dance, play and have lots of fun. I know my dad will keep him thoroughly entertained as he grows up.

Bette, my mother has been like having a built in nanny. She also jumped back into baby rearing like an old pro. Mom comes to stay with us for a week or so and gives this mother some much needed relaxation. The woman actually offers to change diapers, now you can't beat that with a stick. Mom has also let Brad and I have a couple of dates. She feeds, bathes and puts Elias to bed. Secretly I think he loves it because it's extra snuggle time with Gramma.

Finally, we have to thank Brad's mom Sonny the most. Sonny takes care of Elias two days a week when Brad works days. Elias loves Gramma Sonny and Grandpa Jim's house. Sonny has it set up like a grand daycare. He has great toys, wonderful food, and the loving care of Gramma. Sonny's taking care of Elias has allowed us to keep him out of daycare, let Brad and I see each other more than half the week, and to aid in raising Elias in a loving, caring environment. She also babysits on a whim! How much better can it get.

One last time, thanks! Brad and I truly, truly mean it. All the grandparents have been an invaluable part of Elias' first year of life. He has shared a bond with them that will never be broken. We love you all!

Another year

2009-01-13T13:33:00.003-06:00

I can't believe Elias is going to be one year in 10 days. Wow, 10 days. The time has flown by.

Kids are amazing. I'll have to say Brad and I always talk about how our life has changed for the better and you never knew you could love something so much. We've adapted to parenthood quite well, I believe. I have to give my husband major props for being an all around wonderful dad. He watches Elias 3 days a week and I usually get a call around lunch time about all the fun things they've done that day. He puts him down for two naps, dresses, feeds him lunch and gives Elias plenty of Dad time. As a family we couldn't ask for anything more.

I of course love getting home at a reasonable time. Usually I get to be with Elias when he wakes up from his nap and we play, grocery shop, he helps me cook dinner and take his bath. Today he got a hold of the toilet paper while I was showering and wrapped himself up. He looked like a baby mummy.

Recently Elias has been waking (just the last couple of days) at 9:30 p.m. crying. I feel so bad for him because I don't know what he wants. Usually he comes into bed with us, falls asleep and then goes back into his crib. It's got me worried and frustrated so I had to rely on my infant rearing skills again on how to combat this issue. I told myself today, we've gone through this before just a LONG time ago (like 7 months but feels like ages). Tonight if it happens I won't take him into bed but rock him in his room, put him down and if he cries NOT take him into bed. See these skills are always needed ;)

Anyway, this is just a post on my reflecting. We're going to have a small party for Elias on the Sat. after his birthday. Nothing fancy, cake, food and great friends and family. E and I are also heading to Green Bay this weekend to visit some relatives who haven't seen Little Man in a while. I'm sure they'll be shocked to see he's not so Little anymore...

As promised...

2009-01-06T16:54:00.001-06:00

New Year's Eve

2009-01-06T13:19:00.002-06:00

Oh and if you want to see a video of me and my buddy Liza at our family New Year's head over to Liza's blog. Mom and I went out for dinner with Liza, her parents Gus and Michelle and some other friends. It was totally cool because they did a count down at 5:30 p.m. instead of midnight so us kids could have some fun too. I think we may do it again next year. Peace out...Elias

I promise...

2009-01-06T12:36:00.003-06:00

I promise to post more pictures once I get my lazy butt upstairs to upload them from my camera. Hopefully it will be tonight (wink wink).

Katie & Anna

2008-12-29T13:24:00.003-06:00

Katie got tired of Santa real quick but Anna's an old pro. She brought her catalog page and everything! Thanks Carrie!

Santa

2008-12-26T09:14:00.003-06:00

So we took Elias to see Santa and he sure didn't like it. If you think about Santa is a very scary dude. You put your small child on the lap of a man who yells "HO HO HO", is wearing a bright red suit and has a big beard. Elias thought he was SATAN not SANTA.

However as a parent you have to take the obligatory crying on Santa's lap picture. My parents have one, Brad's parents have one and it goes on. So now Elias has one. We didn't get any of our own pictures since he was crying so hard I couldn't leave him on Santa's lap any longer but the one the "elf" got (the elf was wearing pink Victoria's Secret sweatpants) is priceless.

So I want to see your Santa pictures. Crying, laughing, stunned, send them here!

Christmas morning...

2008-12-26T09:11:00.002-06:00

Holiday Magic

2008-12-16T13:06:00.003-06:00

So Mom, Dad and I went to see Santa on Sunday. We drove all the way out to Woodfield Mall only to find out Santa had a wait. A wait, since when do people have to wait for Santa. Anyway, the wait was 2 hours and I wasn't having that. I can barely wait 2 minutes let alone 2 hours. Mom and Dad said that we can go see him next week when Gramma Bette comes to town and Daddy is off work. That way I can tell him what I want right before he comes.

In other news Mom and Dad put up the tree. I really don't care about it one way or the other but they keep telling me that this Santa guy will make it worth my while pretty soon. They also dressed me up and sat me in front of it to take pictures for our holiday cards. I think they turned out pretty good, but I know I'm handsome.

I'm starting to talk a lot more. Well, what I call talking anyway. It's mostly a bunch of syllables but I know what I'm saying and that's all that matters. Today though I thought I'd throw them a bone and I pointed at a yellow chicken and said, "DUCK". Daddy said that was close enough. Hey it was yellow and if it walks like a duck....

We're having a big snow storm right now so Mommy's going to try and hurry home. Peace out...Elias

St. Nick's Day

2008-12-08T22:04:00.009-06:00

In my family we always had a bonus present day on December 6th, St. Nicholas Day. We celebrated St. Nick's Day since we are predominantly Dutch (Grandma's and Great-Grandma's). As Wikipedia explains...The Dutch celebrate Sinterklaas on December 5th, St. Nicholas Eve, with festive family parties when gifts and surprises are exchanged. In the Netherlands, unlike other places, adults as well as children join in the fun. As the Dutch like an element of surprise, a small gift may be wrapped in a huge box, or it may be hidden and require following clues to discover where it is. Where St. Nicholas is prominent, his day, not Christmas, is the primary gift giving day. Parties may be held on the eve, December 5th, and shoes or stockings left for St. Nicholas to fill during the night. Children will find treats of small gifts, fruit or nuts, and special Nicholas candies and cookies. St. Nicholas gifts are meant to be shared, not hoarded for oneself.

We mainly did small gifts left in one's stockings and/or candy treats. As a kid it meant bonus presents. This weekend we continued the tradition with Elias. St. Nick brought Elias books, a teddy bear and some ornaments.

And for all you kids out there reading this blog, psst don't forget to tell your parents about St. Nick's Day ;)

Oh and thanks to Grandpa Bill for helping to get our Christmas tree. It was a very cold and snowy day!

Excuse me...

2008-12-03T19:13:00.003-06:00

Sorry, I just brain-farted. Yes, that's what I said brain-farted. I deleted ALL my Turkey day photos from my camera thinking they had already been downloaded. So...I'm going to email my sister-in-law so she can send me hers. In the meantime I would love to see your photos. Email them to me and I'll post them on the blog! I'll leave you with the cuteness that is my Little Lumberjack!

Asher Clyde

2008-12-02T11:38:00.003-06:00

Asher Clyde is getting SO BIG! He's grown a foot (well maybe not quite that much) since we've seen him. Elias misses you!

Also, don't worry people, I have plenty of pictures from our feast, as my niece Sophie called it. Oh and by the way, my turkey rocked.

Pictures of Gabe Michael

2008-11-25T13:42:00.002-06:00

Rachel and Oren's little sweetheart!

Buds

2008-11-24T12:58:00.001-06:00

Erin and her big man Alex on Halloween. The clan misses you!

If you're happy and you know it...

2008-11-16T17:20:00.004-06:00

Okay so Mom hasn't let me at the computer in a long, long time. She says I don't sit still long enough anymore to actually type a post, but I'll show her.

For all my peops, I'm crawling, creeping and almost standing alone. Because of all those things I bang my head a lot and I mean a lot. Mom, Dad and Gramma Sonny have a penguin ice pack on hand for my bruises and bumps. I think it makes me look tough Mom worries about someone called "DCFS". I can say dadda, hi and hey. They keep harassing me about momma so I keep stringing them along.

Also, I recently acquired the skill of clapping and man do I love it. My toys and Mom and Dad like to sing this song, "If you happy and you know it clap your hands" and darned if I don't clap my hands. I just can't help myself. Today I picked up the phone and said, hi. Hey they do it, why not me.

Oh and I got another tooth. Mom and Dad think it's funny because I didn't get the top front upper, I got the one on the side called the lateral incisor not the central so I may be chewing on the side of my mouth.

Like Dad I love cheese. I've been eating it a lot lately. I also like crackers, raisins, bananas (always have but know they're chunky) and bread. This food thing is pretty cool. Mom said that I can have some turkey and mashed potatoes on Thanksgiving. I can't wait.

Speaking of Thanksgiving I get to see my cousins Sophie and Shelby again. We had so much fun the last time I can't wait till they get to see my pad.

Well I showed Mom and updated y'all so hopefully I'll be back sooner than later. Peace out...Elias.

Packers win and Elias claps!

2008-11-16T17:17:00.003-06:00

Shout out!

2008-11-13T06:57:00.003-06:00

Rachel and Oren are pleased to announce the birth of their bouncing baby boy Gabe (Gabriel) Michael, 7 lbs. 6 oz. 20 inches long. We can't wait to meet him and

Elias is so happy to have a new friend!

Pictures to follow...

Creative Mommy

2008-11-07T14:08:00.004-06:00

Okay, I actually can't take credit for the wonderful idea of Babysitter Notes but I did copy the idea. I saw these notes on Cool Mom Picks but of course didn't want to shell out the $8.00 plus shipping and handling so I got to work. Here's what I came up with.

It looks a little weird since I couldn't get the formatting correct but you get the gist of it. If anyone would like my ingenious document I would be more than happy to email it to you! Of course I would actually have to leave Elias to use this note but Brad is bound and determined to go see the new Bond film so I may be using it sooner than later.

I voted!

2008-11-04T06:56:00.002-06:00

Elias and I just got back from voting. He had me up at 4:45 a.m. so why not hit the polls at 6:00. Guess what, there still was a line! Instead of being upset I was happy. Of course we live in Illinois which isn't a battleground state but it is so nice to see people voting. In Cook County they're expecting an 85% turn out. It's my opinion that you have absolutely no right to opine on politics if you don't vote. Thankfully we don't know many people who don't vote but if you do not vote, don't speak.

We're back

2008-11-03T19:02:00.007-06:00

So it's been a long time since I posted pics and updated everyone. Couple of things prevented my blogging. One of course Marbs. It was very painful (and still is) to sit down and try and be clever, witty, funny, you know all the things I usually am. The loss was very hard on our family. I still cry when I think about him. The worst is going in the back yard. I spent 13 years worrying about stepping in poop. I never thought I'd miss it. Brad and I did plant an oak tree for Marbie right along the fence line that he loved to walk by. Elias and I are going to go and get a garden stone and put Marbie's name on it so it can go under the tree. It's next to the other tree Marbs used to eat all the time. So Marbie's got his own little grove in the back yard.

I thought I'd want another dog right away but I don't. I miss Marbie too much and I think I'm not ready to move on. Brad and I joke that when we do get a dog that poor dog will constantly be saying to itself, "who the hell is this Marbie guy and why do they keep saying, Marbie would never do that! Jeez!" Like licking. Marbie never gave kisses. Well if you had some meat on your face maybe, but otherwise no kisses. In a way we always wished for kisses but it really wasn't too bad. He didn't lick people. I think he didn't want to lower himself to that ;

Also our laptop died. We lost everything on it and it took a couple of weeks to get up and running. It's not too easy to tie yourself to a desktop long enough to post.

Anyway, I didn't post any pics from Vermont, Halloween or anything so here's a quick recap. Vermont was fabulous. Beautiful, relaxing, and all around fun. It was so great to see our nieces Shelby and Sophie. Shelby is a pre-teen, or as the kids say tweener. Ah it brings back the memories of me at that age. Reading, sulking, sleeping, and making fun of people. Well, I still kind of do that. Sophie is your typically two-year-old, full of energy, smart and too cute. We loved visiting.

Then this weekend was Halloween. Of course we really didn't trick or treat but had to put Elias in the obligatory laugh-at-your-baby-costume. He was a skunk and surprisingly he didn't mind the costume too much. He kind of melted down at the Great Grandparent's house but he had just spent three hours in the car (most of it not sleeping) so it was warranted.

We also went to my cousin Cory's wedding this weekend. He married a wonderful girl, Hannah, and the wedding was beautiful. Elias was very talkative during the ceremony but was very good at dinner. Our friend Katie came over and watched Elias sleep while Brad and I enjoyed ourselves at the festivities.

Finally, daylight savings time is a bitch. Trying to push back a nine month old's bedtime is hard. Elias is now waking up at quarter to five, yes that's right 4:45 a.m.! Not cool. Tonight I actually got him back to 7 p.m. It was a little dicey at time's but we prevailed. On that note, Elias is crawling, commando and now regular, he pulls himself up on everything, he eats everything, he has two teeth and smiles all the time. He is just the greatest and this pictures proves it!

Go vote, or you'll be left with your pants down!

Vote, Tom Cruise says so!

2008-10-29T15:44:00.000-05:00

Update

2008-10-24T13:13:00.004-05:00

As you all know our beloved dog Marbie was laid to rest on Saturday. It's taken a while for me to able to talk/write about it without crying (still not successful). Marbie had been having a lot of trouble walking. We know he had been in a lot pain. This was the hardest decision Brad and I ever mad. We agonized over it. In the end we know it was the right decision to make. It was all very peaceful and Marbie fell asleep in my arms (here's where the waterworks start again).

Our house is very quiet without him, except for our now crawling, cruising, yelling nine-month-old. But there is no barking when we get home or when the pizza guy comes. No clicking on the hardwood of his nails and no shaking of his ears.

Marbie touched our lives in a way that we know no other dog will. The next dog will be a family dog, Elias' play-mate. Marbie was our first baby. Brad and I raised him from 7 weeks old in a small apartment in Madison. He moved with us four times, two states. We called him Fuzzball, Stinky, Buba, Mr. Pants, Louis Leekey, and Monkey.

Marbie will be missed every minute of every day. I miss his bed, food, and crazily enough his smell. I just finished a book The Art of Racing in the Rain where the dog believes when he dies he'll be reincarnated as a human but first his soul gets to play. I hope that Marbie's now running through fields, swimming and eating everything in sight. Hopefully he'll come to me in my dreams to let me know he's okay and I hope I'll get to see him again one day.

Marbie Mufasa

2008-10-18T12:56:00.010-05:00

We'll always love and miss you Fuzzball.

My arm, my arm

2008-10-16T10:32:00.002-05:00

So the reason we haven't posted in a while, besides enjoying ourselves in Vermont, is because our laptop died. Yes, dead. I feel like my right arm has been cut off. We don't know why it died, Windows Vista (yeah that is probably your answer right there) just refused to start up. Dell said that they could reload Vista but that means we LOSE EVERYTHING. All my pictures, all our emails, programs, everything.

Thankfully nowadays there is Geek Squad. Those little, tie-wearing, dark glasses geeks should be able to come to our rescue. If we bring our laptop in they should be able to put our hard drive on to an external hard drive therefore saving all our information. Once Vista is reloaded we can then put our hard drive info. back on our laptop.

So people you're going to have to wait for the beautiful pictures of Vermont, my gorgeous nieces and handsome son. Of course unless I get off my butt, walk upstairs to our laptop and actually download the pictures at the speed of molasses and then post them on the blog. If you wait long enough that might actually happen.

Talking Little Man

2008-10-07T21:15:00.001-05:00

I've had this song in my head since having Elias.

Another day, another cold

2008-10-05T15:53:00.002-05:00

So since we've have kids it seems like I've gotten more colds. I mean I know how I catch them from Elias, all the kisses. Seriously how can I stop giving him kisses but I thought I wouldn't catch anything from him. They say kids in their first year of life get 8-12 colds. Well parents must get at least 1/4 of them.

Elias came back from Texas with a cold that turned into an ear infection. If we weren't flying to Vermont this weekend the doc wouldn't have worried but we didn't want any ear issues on the plane so she gave him some antibiotics. For the past week Brad and I have been fighting what we assume are also sinus infections. They're not bad enough to take off work but nagging and persistent sinus issues. This comes after a cold a couple of months ago that put me out of commission for 3 work days.

Before Elias Brad and I had not gotten sick for two years! We both take vitamins and eat well but alas we're still getting sick. I have to say though, all those kisses are worth it! Have other parents experienced the same thing?

A "Swell" Weekend

2008-09-30T21:28:00.011-05:00

So Elias and I set off for Austin, Texas on Thursday and I have to say he is a great baby. On the first leg, a two hour flight we sat next to a gentleman who had twin one-year-old boys and said, "If he cries, don't worry, I'm used to it". But Elias didn't cry, not once. He played, played and played. Grabbed people, newspapers and the in flight magazines, but never cried. He finally fell asleep about a half-an-hour before landing. On the second leg he continually grabbed an older woman sitting next to us but thankfully she didn't mind. The flight home was just as easy with him despite an additional two hour delay in Houston because of beautiful Chicago weather. Oh and I have to give him even more props considering he got his first tooth on the flight back. Yes finally a tooth! Only 6 weeks later than we thought. He also had a cold. He's a trooper.

So we arrived in Austin to see Leanne, Chris and Asher. The boys got along great and Asher is too cute! It is absolutely amazing to spend time with your friends' kids. When we were back in high school, or in Leanne's case college, you couldn't imagine having kids. Than as you got older it was a dream to still have such close friendships and then watch our kids get to grow up together. You can't ask for anything more!

So Thursday we arrived, had a little play time, ate some great burgers and Elias slept through the night. He actually slept through the night two of the four nights, only waking up when we entered the room the second night and because of his cold the last night. That made Mom too happy.

The boys got to do a lot of playing. They rolled on the floor, grabbed each other and tried to take each other's toys. Well, Elias tried to take all of Asher's toys.

Brad came into town on Friday and Leanne and Chris had a great BBQ where we got to meet all their friends (who I have to say are very fun and cool people).

(I do have a picture of the Johnson/English family that I will post here later, it got accidentally deleted at work so check back.)

We also have to thank Aunt Leanne for babysitting on Sat. night. Shout out to her for that. It allowed me and Brad to enjoy some Austin music at The Paramount Theater. Brad and I had wanted to see The Swell Season when they came through Chicago but it was too close to the R.E.M. show. So when Leanne's friends Erin and Craig said they were going the next night we jumped at the chance. We are very glad we did. They were wonderful. I would highly recommend seeing them. The songs were energetic and even there "new stuff" was really good. Glen Hansgard is great. He's funny, energetic and can see why they cast him in Once.

Sunday we made dinner for Leanne and Chris and just relaxed. It was a wonderful end to a great weekend. We really hope the family can make it up to Chicago so the boys can go to the zoo, we can listen to some Chicago blues music and again enjoy each other's company.

Oh I almost forgot, not only is Elias saying Dada but he's also saying Dad. On Sunday when Elias was sick I was snuggling with him in bed to try and soothe him to put him back to sleep in the Pack N'Play when Brad came in. Brad went to snuggle with Elias on the other side when Elias rolled over, grabbed Brad's shirt collar and said, "Dad" in the sweetest voice I ever heard. Again, I never realized you could love somebody that much. I love ya kid!

I am 8 months old!

2008-09-24T11:55:00.003-05:00

Guess what people I am 8 months old (35 weeks). Mom and Dad are having a heck of a time confining me to the blanket on the floor. I like to crab crawl and grab the radiator, the DVR the coffee table, well just about anything. I'm trying to pull myself up but I'm not quite there yet. However I do love yelling for Dada. Yup, everything and everyone is Dada. Dad loves it though. Mom keeps asking me to say Mama. I'm not there yet so she'll just have wait.

I can use my finger and thumb to pick things up now. Mom got me some Banana Smiley Snacks but I don't like putting them in mouth. She also has been coarsely blending peas and apricots so I get chunkier foods. At first I did NOT and I mean NOT like it. Gramma Bette was visiting and I was gagging, spitting and making faces to let them know my disgust, but they weren't getting it. Mom just kept trying to feed it to me. Eventually I gave up and now I'm eating the mushy stuff.

Gramma Sonny and I also do "So Big" as you saw from my previously posted adorable photo!

Tomorrow Mom and I are leaving for Austin to visit Leanne and Asher. It should be so much fun. My first plane ride. I think Mom's got some new hidden toys for me and I promised her that I would be as good as possible (yeah right)! Peace out...Elias.

Happy Birthday Shout Out!

2008-09-23T10:47:00.004-05:00

I have to say Happy Birthday to my Aunt Crisanne! I sure hope I get to see you soon! Love, Elias.

So Big!

2008-09-21T21:18:00.002-05:00

Elias is SO BIG at Ikea with Gramma Bette & Gramma Sonny. I'll post more pics from Gramma Bette's visit later this week. Then, Elias and I are off to Texas to meet Asher. Don't worry I'm sure we'll have way more pictures than anyone will want to see upon our return!

Major Milestone

2008-09-17T19:46:00.006-05:00

As Daddy would say, "I served under Major Milestone," but I'm not talking about that type of Major. We had a momentous day in the Nolan family. First, Elias started to commando crawl and on camera to boot. I was just sitting there video taping him and all of a sudden he came forward to me. He's going to be a crawling whiz in no time.

Secondly, he started talking a few days ago but today we heard a lot of "dadadada". We know he's not actually referring to Brad but it sure sounds like Dada. And guess what, I got that on video too. So here's a little treat for you folks, my handsome baby boy!

A Worthwhile Cause

2008-09-15T13:29:00.001-05:00

CLICK HERE to read up on and donate to a very worthwhile cause which hits close to home for us!

"The Children’s Heart Foundation is the only organization that was created to exclusively fund congenital heart defect research.
- Congenital heart defects are common and deadly, yet CHD research is grossly under-funded relative to the prevalence of the disease.- Only one penny of every dollar donated to the American Heart Association goes towards congenital heart defect research.- Of every dollar the government spends on medical funding only a fraction of a penny is directed toward congenital heart defect research.- The NHLBI has stated that Congenital Heart Defects are a serious and underappreciated global health problem.- In the last decade death rates for congenital heart defects have declined by almost 30% due to advances made through research.
As the country's leading organization solely committed to CHD research funding, CHF dedicates itself to bringing health, hope and happiness to children and families impacted by a CHD.

My new best friend!

2008-09-14T19:51:00.008-05:00

So Alex and Auntie Erin came to visit yesterday and boy was it fun. Alex and I played cars, trucks, we played with my ball and had a really good time. All five of us went out to dinner. I got a little tired and Mom took me home to get ready for bed.

When Mom was changing my PJ's we could hear Alex calling for Mommy. He was saying "Cawee", "Cawee". Mom thought it was too cool. When she would come into the room Alex would say, "Hi Cawee" and she would say "Hi Alex". Alex would also pat my head and say, "Baby Elias is nice." I think you're nice too Alex!

I can't wait until I can talk. I'm going to talk Mom's ear off.

After I went to bed I think Mom, Dad and Auntie Erin stayed up pretty late because they all looked really tired this morning. Dad napped with me on my first nap and then Mom did on my second. It sounded like they all had a really good time though. I heard Mom telling Auntie that we should all see each other more often. I would really like that because I totally love them. It would sure be fun to go and visit them in Wisconsin. Alex has lots of cool toys.

Well, Gramma Bette is coming next weekend and in two weeks we're off to Austin to meet Asher (that's him on the right). Mom keeps asking me if I'm going to be good on the plane. I tell her, "Don't worry about it." I actually say, "THBBTT, woooo, heeeaahh" but I think she's knows what I'm talking about. Peace out...Elias

Picture Overload

2008-09-08T19:18:00.004-05:00

Sonny Crocket - the early years...

Me & my Badger...sing with me...

The new addition to the Taco Bell Dollar Menu, the Baby Burrito. He wraps it himself!

My new toy, too cool.

Shout out!

2008-09-05T07:43:00.002-05:00

Happy Birthday Carrie! I'll save you the heartache and leave out your age. Also, I know this picture is almost a year old but it's the only one I have! You look a little different now, expecting number three! Have a great birthday.

I'm sick...

2008-09-04T14:32:00.002-05:00

So I have been really sick for the last two days. I haven't even gone to work. It's been almost 2 years since I've gotten sick so I guess it's my time. Of course Little Man has a cold as well but his is much less severe and he's in a MUCH better mood. He's spending the day with Gramma Sonny so Mommy can sleep in a NyQuil induced coma. However upon waking up I feel worse. My throat hurts and my nose is burning.

I've had to reschedule two interviews, one which I was really looking forward to. Thankfully she was understanding once hearing my voice. I still don't like rescheduling though, for some reason it seems like a sign of weakness. I keep telling myself that NO ONE and I mean NO ONE would want to be around me like this, plus it would be a terrible interview with snot running out of my nose.

Elias and I also had to cancel plans with Jack and his mom Meghan. We'd been looking forward to a Mom's and Baby's night out for a while. I would just feel really bad if we got either of them sick.

Being a Mom now you don't have much time to be sick. It's amazing the strength you can find when you need it. Personally, what is the most ironic thing about this situation is that Elias is finally sleeping through the night and now I'm not. Isn't that the s*#t.

Water torture?

2008-09-02T11:34:00.003-05:00

So this weekend we set out to try and get Elias to sleep through the night. Our theory was, every time he woke up we would give him water in his bottle instead of formula. Well, the first night it worked great. He woke up, gave him the water, he fussed for 20 minutes and went back to sleep until the morning. Lo and behold, the next day he slept through the night! Not a small sleep, 7 p.m. to 6 a.m. ALL NIGHT! Next night, slept through again. He cheated a little bit since we came back from Carrie & Matt's and he woke up before going down again but still through the night.

Then Sat. came. He woke up at 1:30 a.m., got the water, fussed with Brad for 20 minutes and back to sleep. But this time he slept for only 30 minutes. I always said I would only let him fuss for an hour then I'd relent and give in. He fussed for 57 minutes. Not straight but 57 minutes nonetheless.

I rocked him, gave him water (which he actually drank), he'd fall asleep and then wake up when I tried to put him down. We repeated this scenario several times. Finally he fell asleep and didn't wake up until the morning. The results were good though, he slept through the night again last night. All the way.

We don't' know what to expect tonight, tomorrow or the next night but at least we're heading in the right direction. Hopefully sometime soon we won't have to make bottles at night anymore and Little Man will get his rest. Keep your fingers crossed and wish us luck.

P.S. Check back for burrito baby!

Welcome Labor Day

2008-08-29T19:44:00.005-05:00

Sorry I've been neglecting you all. I truly am, however my priorities have taken a sudden turn. I am completely 100% obsessed. I can't control myself, like David Duchovney I should enter rehab, not for sex addiction but for reading addiction. Yes, you heard me right, reading addiction. Thank you Rachel for getting me addicted to to Stephenie Meyer's Twilight Series.

As some of you may know I like horror. Stephen King, Clive Barker, Freddy, Jason, the whole bit. This is horror with teen angst attached. At first I thought, there is no way I'm going to like this and I have to admit there are some hokey parts but seriously I can't get enough of it. I make sure and leave it at work so that I don't neglect my family.

Rachel lent me the first three books and I just bought number four yesterday night. It is a 750 page book. Guess what page I'm on, 301. Am I crazy, I think so.

Part of the reason I think I'm so obsessed is that I started reading the series when all four books were out already released so I'm dying to find out what happens. I'm not a big fan of surprises or waiting. I have no patience. Well, that's not entirely true. Since having Little Man my patience has gotten a lot, lot better but not when it comes to surprises. I always want to know my Christmas presents before I open them. For me it doesn't ruin the surprise, I still enjoy it. I'll hound Brad until he gives up any type of secret or surprise. So given that, I want to know what happens with Bella and Edward (you have to read the books to know what I'm talking about).

So loyal readers, that is why I have been neglecting you. However, it should be short lived. Brad is working tonight so I'm sure I'll be reading at a fevered pace to try and finish these damn books. I promise tomorrow we'll get back to what this is all about, Elias.

We're heading to see Anna and Katie tomorrow and then more friends coming over on Sun. I'll have pictures galore. You'll probably want to puke. So I'm off to stick my nose back in book!

I am 7 months old!

2008-08-23T20:57:00.008-05:00

Hey everybody I thought I'd give you all an update. I'm seven months old today. I can sit up, scoot around and roll around like crazy. Mom and Dad can't leave me on the floor anymore because I like to bang on the DVR. I also love, love, love to squirm when they change my diaper. It's hilarious to watch Mom and Dad struggle to get my diaper on right. I'm eating a ton more solid foods and enjoy pretty much everything. I think I heard Mom talking about starting to blend the food they eat and feed it to me pretty soon. That will be too cool.

I still like to wake Mom and Dad up at night as well. It's just too much fun to see them at 3:00 a.m. to stop now. I'll give them a few more months. Oh I can also stand up. I'm a bit wobbly but I'll get used to it.

Also, I should be getting a tooth any day. I'm drooling like crazy and guess what, I learned to stick out my tongue and spit. I spit lentils and rice all over Mom yesterday and today I pretty much spit not stop.

I can wave and shake my head no, I also push my bottle away when I'm done and I like I said before spit food at Mom when I don't like it. These are all great new talents.

Grandpa Bill is coming to visit tomorrow and Gramma Sonny and Granpa Jim are coming over for a BBQ. We're going to see the beautiful Anna and Katie next weekend and Jon and Meera are also coming to visit. Then Auntie Erin, Mike and Alex are coming in Sept., Gramma Bette is going to visit and we're heading to Austin to see Leanne, Chris and baby Asher Clyde (he's bigger than I am!). Phew, we have a busy Sept. but I'm up for it. Plus I'm sure Mom and Dad will document our every move. Peace out...Elias

Haircut Story

2008-08-21T19:30:00.006-05:00

So some of you had heard my haircut story but some have not so hear goes. Last week I had an appointment to get my haircut. I had decided to chop it all off. As you women know, this is sometimes scary and you have to work up the nerve to do. So I psyched myself all day to get it chopped. I entered my hair salon and said I had an appointment. This is were the craziness begins.

They tell me, oops its for next week, which was their mistake not mine. Again as you ladies know, since I had worked up the nerve the haircut was going to happen that day! I decided to find another place and see if they could fit me in. After several calls and searches on the Aveda website I found what I thought was a reputable place in a decent suburb. I checked out their website, called and lo and behold they could fit me in. Now let me paint the picture as I walked in.

First, it was in a strip mall. Not that all salons in strip malls are bad, I usually just don't happen to go to them. Second, there were a number of little old ladies getting perms. Again, nothing wrong with little old ladies but they tend not to frequent the salons I go to. Third, my hairdresser walks out and he visibly has Parkinson's. I know many people live long, happy lives with Parkinson's (look at Michael J. Fox) but you usually don't want your hairdresser to shake as he cuts 13 inches off your hair.

I almost turned around and walked out, but I'd come this far. It couldn't be that bad, and it wasn't! I actually got a cut I really, really like. He cut off 13 inches of my hair and I donated it to Locks of Love. My hair is easy, healthy and now baby-proof.

Even though I did like the cut I don't think I'll be returning. Not for any of the aforementioned reasons but they charged me for a blow-dry! Are you kidding me!

Patent Ductus Arteriousus

2008-08-21T11:07:00.002-05:00

Sounds like a new fangled thing for your furnace right, but it's not. It is actually a congenital heart defect that we just found out the Little Man has. Before we get into the basics I'll tell you he is right as rain. Thankfully our wonderful pediatrician heard a possible murmur and sent us to a pediatric cardiologist who than diagnosed patent ductus arteriousus (PDA). Elias has had no outward signs of PDA besides the murmur. He is very active, very happy and very healthy. Actually he probably inherited it from Gramma Bette who also has PDA but did not learn about until she was in her 30's. That doesn't mean I of course didn't freak out, cry and have a breakdown (all outside the presence of Little Man).

So here's the deal. Patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) is a heart problem that occurs soon after birth in some babies. In PDA, there is an abnormal circulation of blood between two of the major arteries near the heart. Before birth, the two major arteries—the aorta and the pulmonary artery—are normally connected by a blood vessel called the ductus arteriosus, which is an essential part of the fetal circulation. After birth, the vessel is supposed to close within a few days as part of the normal changes occurring in the baby's circulation. In some babies, however, the ductus arteriosus remains open (patent). This opening allows blood to flow directly from the aorta into the pulmonary artery, which can put a strain on the heart and increase the blood pressure in the lung arteries.

In normal birth-weight infants such as Elias the larger a PDA is, the greater the amount of extra blood that passes through the lungs. A small PDA might not cause any problems (such as in our case), whereas a larger PDA is likely to cause problems. PDA can increase the risk of bacterial endocarditis that is why Gramma Bette has to take antibiotics before going to the dentist. Bacterial endocarditis is an infection of the lining of the heart, valves, or arteries. In the case of PDA, the increased flow of blood can irritate the lining of the pulmonary artery where the PDA connects. This irritation makes it easier for bacteria in the bloodstream to collect and grow there.
A large PDA that is allowed to remain open for an extended period of time can cause the heart to enlarge and to have to work harder. Also, fluid can build up in the lungs.

If Elias' PDA does not close up on it's own he will likely have to have a procedure when he is one or two. The procedure is an out-patient catheter procedure explained next. Catheters are thin, flexible tubes used in a procedure called cardiac catheterization (KATH-e-ter-i-ZA-shun). Catheter-based procedures are often used to close PDAs in infants or children who are large enough to have the procedure. Your child's doctor may refer to the procedure as "transcatheter device closure." The procedure is sometimes done on small PDAs to prevent the risk of bacterial endocarditis. During the procedure, your child will be sedated or given general anesthesia so he or she will sleep and not feel any discomfort. The doctor will place a catheter in a large blood vessel in the upper thigh (groin) and guide it to your child's heart. A small metal coil or other blocking device is passed up through the catheter and placed in the ductus arteriosus to block blood flow through the vessel. Catheter-based procedures: Do not require the child's chest to be opened; Let the child recover quickly; Closing a PDA using a catheter is often done on an outpatient basis. You will most likely be able to take your child home the same day the procedure is done. Complications of catheter-based procedures are rare and short term. They can include bleeding, infection, and movement of the blocking device from where it was placed. If you want even more info this is a great website to check it out.

So that's the deal. I'm still taking it all in. Every time I look at my beautiful baby boy I see a healthy, happy baby and I am extremely thankful for that. It seems with or without the procedure Elias should be fine. Still, until you're a parent you can never realize the feeling of helplessness when your child is sick or diagnosed with an illness. In my heart I know he'll be fine. That doesn't mean for the next several months/years I won't be watching Elias like a hawk and I probably will need Valium if he has the procedure. However I do remind myself everyday how truly lucky and thankful we are to have him and for him to be as healthy as he is. Elias is the absolute best thing that I have ever done in my life. I love him more than anything and always will.

P.S. Shout out to Asher Clyde who got his first tooth at 4 1/2 months! Way to go Big Man! Elias is still waiting for his to poke through.

Gratuitously cute

2008-08-18T14:11:00.002-05:00

Elias Tooth Results

2008-08-18T11:53:00.003-05:00

Alas, Elias has yet to get a tooth and we're all out of dates. Gramma Bette came closest with today's date. However, we still don't have a tooth. As a consolation prize Gramma Bette received a clothes pin holder and dinner on us during her next visit.

Check back tonight or tomorrow for updated picks of Elias and my haircut story!

Asher Clyde

2008-08-15T07:16:00.002-05:00

Asher Clyde is getting so big! Can't wait to meet you in six weeks. We're going to have so much fun!

Et tu stomach flu

2008-08-12T12:26:00.002-05:00

Sorry we've been distant lately but Elias is suffering from some sort of stomach bug. I'll tell you, being a parent is extremely nerve wracking. There is nothing more horrible than watching your Little Man vomit and there's nothing you can do for him.

His loss of appetite starting a few days ago and then Saturday he threw up twice. I called the urgent care nurse and she told us he had to be seen within 24 hours so off to the ER we went. Now me, being the neurotic mother that I am, wanted an MRI a CT Scan everything done to make sure my boy was okay. All they did was say he's not dehydrated, give him Pedialyte and feed slowly. Okay, are you sure? I mean it could be an intestinal obstruction, brain tumor, anything. Brad of course has to calm me down because I'm a wreck. I used to do this with Marbie but now it's magnified by 5000! I truly have to learn to keep my emotions in check since I don't want Elias to feel my fear. I have to learn to be calm and collected and not Shirley McClain running through the hospital halls in Terms of Endearment, screaming, "Give my son his medication."

Okay, so here we are today. Last night Elias threw up twice, one little one and one big. I got my pediatrician on the line and she thinks because his little body had some sweet potatoes and pears that it may have been too much. Of course I wish they would have told me that in the ER. So he was up with me from 10:00 p.m. to 12:00 a.m. We played in bed until we both fell asleep. Brad came home and we all slept together to make sure the Little Man didn't vomit in his sleep. He woke up a couple of times, ate some more and fingers crossed, hasn't thrown up since. We're keeping him off solids for a few more days and hoping he starts to feel better. I guess being a parent not only teaches you patience and persistence but also how to keep your composure and helplessness. I just want to do whatever I can for my Little Man to feel better. It is so tough leaving for work when you wish you could take care of him. Thankfully he's in the loving arms of his Gramma Sonny and I'll be home soon.

Also, for and update on the Elias Tooth Game, no teeth yet so only Gramma Bette is still in the running!

Hallelujah

2008-08-08T11:09:00.002-05:00

Elias slept from 7:30 p.m. to 5:00 a.m. this morning. I know that may not sound like a lot to you but it is a lot to us. I actually got 7 hours in a row of sleep. Thank you to my beautiful baby boy for giving your mom and dad some sleep. Now believe me we're not counting on that tonight, but we're taking it night by night!

It's a sad day in Titletown.

2008-08-07T07:04:00.002-05:00

Click here.

Asher Lee

2008-08-06T12:28:00.003-05:00

New photos of Asher Lee,

my cousin Nathan and his wife Jackie's little boy. Too cute!

Happy Bronze Anniversary

2008-08-05T08:57:00.003-05:00

I have to give a shout out to Mom and Dad. Today is their 8th wedding anniversary. As Mom said to Dad this morning, "Eight years ago today, as of this moment, I was getting my hair done and you were sleeping." Dad said, "Not much has changed." Well I have to disagree because I think I'm a big change. I think Mom and Dad agree though that it has been the best change in their whole lives. I love you Mom and Dad. Peace out...Elias.

Packer Dilemma

2008-08-04T12:29:00.004-05:00

Okay there is no escaping the Brett Favre drama going on and especially not in our household. With Brad as an editor of a sports section and both of us rabid Packer fans, there has been much discussion. Not that anyone cares but I feel the need to voice my opinion. The Packers are being idiots. Yes Brett said he was retiring, yes he wants to come back, yes he's being a bit whiny but come on are you seriously going to sit him or worse, trade him. You can't tell me that Aaron Rodgers is going to be a better quarterback than Brett. There's only a few quarterbacks that MAY and I say MAY be better than Brett and Aaron Rodgers is not one of them. As Brad keeps saying, he's no Steve Young waiting in the wings, it's Aaron Rodgers. Brett should win the starting job hands down.

Let's talk trade. If the Packers trade Brett Favre I'm done. Seriously. I don't think I can watch football this year. If Brett goes to the Vikings, or worse yet the Bears I'm selling my Packer stock. Again I'm serious. If Brett goes to another NFC Central team he will kill the Packers. We will suck and Brett will come back and kick our butts (unless it's too cold, as we all know Brett hates the cold now). I really truly hope that Elias gets to see Brett Favre play in a Packers uniform. The team owes it to him, to us and the city of Green Bay.

So now that I've vented, what's your opinion? I'd love to hear it, even you Bears fans. Also check out Brad's paper's blog. Click here to check it out.

Yum Yum

2008-08-03T20:36:00.004-05:00

So yesterday Mom and Dad went out for dinner and I came along. They said it was an early anniversary dinner. We walked to Trattoria Gemelli. Mom and Dad ate and I sat in a high chair for the first time. I mostly smacked my hands on the table and tried to grab food but it was fun. Mom and Dad said I was really good. I didn't cry or yell, I ate some summer vegetables and prunes and oatmeal along with Mom and Dad. Earlier in the day Mom let me suck on a nectarine and it was really good too.

My new favorite thing is Mom's Cookie Monster voice. It is so funny. I go into fits of laughter everytime she says, "C is for Cookie". Here's a picture of me laughing.

I'm getting over a little cold but I'm starting to feel better. My nose was stuffy and it was hard sleeping. I still wake up because it's hard to breath. Friday we're going to Liza's new house so it should be fun!

Pcace out...Elias

Madtown

2008-07-28T18:52:00.014-05:00

So we headed up to Madison this weekend for my buddy Alex's second birthday party. I have to say Alex is too cool. He can name is colors, say his name and do all kinds of other cool stuff. He was really, really nice and gave me kisses and hugged me good-bye. I'm going to miss him and hope I get to see him again soon. Mom took lots of pictures from his party. Here is Alex in his cool new hat.

Here is Daddy playing ball with Auntie Erin's nephews, Sam the guy batting and Anthony with the t-ball.

Me and Daddy hangin' while Alex opened presents...

And Alex and I chillin' the next morning.

On Sunday Mom and Dad took me into Madison. They said they were very nostalgic because that's where they went to college, met and fell in love. I guess I should be happy since I'm the result. So I say On Wisconsin to that. They took a lot of pictures. I'm not sure the places but Mommy told me so I'll try and remember to tell you.

This is where Mommy and Daddy (and Carrie, Becky, Nick and Auntie Leanne's) dorm used to be. There is one tower left but the other is gone. It was named Ogg. Funny name, but Mom and Dad met there. Mom lived on the seventh floor (near Carrie) and Dad lived on the sixth (near Nick). Mom was sad it was gone, Dad said he's sad but the place was really a dump. I'll have to take his word for it.

Here's Daddy hanging out outside where Mom, Dad, Carrie, Nick and Leanne used to hang out.

Here's me with Abe Lincoln at the top of Bascom Hill.

Here's Daddy and Me in the big chair on The Terrace.

Mommy and Me at Amy's where Mom and Dad had their first date and lots of other wholesome fun times, so they say.

Finally, a couple of me in my totally cool new Badger hat. Thanks Mom and Dad!

Overall I had a blast. I can't wait to go back to Madison to see Alex and go to a Badgers game. It was a fun weekend and I'm still kinda tired so I'm off to bed. Peace out. Elias

The Elias Tooth Game

2008-07-27T18:18:00.009-05:00

Come one come all and let's play,

Elias will get a tooth any day,

Take a guess on the date and leave it in the comments,

and that may be the end of this little sonnett.

But wait it's not over yet,

There will be a prize so do not fret.

Brad and I have not yet figured it out,

However there will be a reward without a doubt.

We have picked August 5th,

That's a special day for us and that's not a myth.

So everyone pick one day*,

You never know it may pay!

*Please check the comments to make sure you date has not yet been taken.

If it has you'll get no bacon!

I'm Six Months Old!

2008-07-25T11:29:00.000-05:00

Can you believe it. Half a year already. So I went for my well-visit and I'm a svelte 15.5 lbs, 26.5 inches long and 46 inch head. Yes, I have a big head but you need it for all those brains. This weekend we're off to Alex's 2nd birthday party. It should be a blast. I'm sure Mom will take plenty of pictures. I'll keep you all posted! Peace out...Elias.

Picture Overload

2008-07-22T22:21:00.015-05:00

So sorry I haven't updated in a while but I've been busy. My Great-Aunt Brooke and cousin Micheal were in town and it was so cool to finally meet them. We got to hang out at the BBQ and then later at Gramma Sonny and Grandpa Jim's house.

Then Mom and I went to Green Bay this past weekend to visit cousins, great-aunt & uncles and especially my Great-Gramma and Grandpa. Here are some pictures of me, Grandpa Bill and my Great-Grandpa, and me and my second-cousin Braelin. I'm sitting in Great-Grandpa's chair. My great-aunt Theresa was in town with cousin Mary and it was awesome to finally meet her too!

I also got to see Gramma Bette and the cool new nursery just for me. She put in new carpeting and Jackie painted and decorated. I love the fish and I even took a nap in my crib. Check out my new digs below. I can't wait to go back.

Finally, Grandpa Bill and I ended the weekend with a little dip in the pool. Man do I love the pool. I was kicking and splashing and even tasted the water. Mom freaked out and told me icky but heck you gotta try everything once. Peace out...Elias

Grills away.

2008-07-15T11:23:00.008-05:00

So Mom and Dad had a BBQ on Sat. and lots of my peeps came. Liza's Dad said it turned out more of a play date instead of a BBQ but us kids sure enjoyed it. Let's see if I can remember who came. As you saw above Liza came with her parents' Gus and Michelle, Lucy & Charlie (yes they know the Peanuts reference) came with their mom Heather, and James & Charlie with their parents' Becky and Mike. Mom and Dad's friends Rachel and Oren and Jon and Meera came too. Also Gramma Bette, Gramma Sonny and Grandpa Jim along with Great-Aunt Brooke and cousin Michael. We all had a blast. Mom took lots of pictures, mostly of the kids. You can also check them out here.

I know you have all been dying to hear what I've been up to as well. I'm almost sitting up. I can do it for a few seconds then usually take a header into the floor. Mom always catches me so I don't get hurt. I love to make dolphin noises. Mom and Dad say that I may be messing up the dolphin tank at the Brookfield Zoo but I'm sure those dolphins are fine. I've learned to yell. This morning I sat in my crib and yelled and yelled. I didn't cry, just yelled. I can also roll and roll and roll. And what has to be Mom's favorite is I can spit. I put my lips together, and sometimes stick my tongue out, and blow. Either spit, bubbles or sometimes food goes flying. Speaking of food I've enjoyed rice cereal, bananas, sweet potatoes and much more but I HATE peas. I will spit peas at you if you try and give them to me. What else, what else, oh I can stand. My legs are getting really strong and I like to stand up a lot. I'm still not sleeping all night but after the BBQ I slept from 11:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. and the next night I slept from 7:00 p.m. to 4:00 a.m. but last night I got up at 1:00 a.m. and 4:30 a.m. But hey, give me a break, I was very wet at 4:30. My sheet was wet, my PJ's were wet and it sucked so guess what, every one's getting up.

That's all I can think of right now. Gramma Bette is going to take me for a walk. I like to chill in the stroller and look at scenery. Peace out...E

More vacations pics...

2008-07-13T15:22:00.002-05:00

Speaking of Asher's

2008-07-11T18:57:00.002-05:00

I thought I'd give everyone an update on Asher Clyde, Leanne & Chris' little man, or shall I say big man!

Shout Out

2008-07-10T19:31:00.005-05:00

Congrats to my cousin Nathan and his wife Jackie on the birth of their baby boy. He was 8 lbs 1 oz and 20 1/2 inches long. Tall like his Dad! Pictures and a name (when they decide on one) to follow! Also, congrats to my Aunt Mary on becoming a Gramma, Gramma Bette welcomes you to the club!

UPDATE: Nathan and Jackie named him Asher Lee. The Nolan family welcomes you!

More vacation photos

2008-07-09T18:57:00.002-05:00

Vacation all I ever wanted...

2008-07-08T19:22:00.008-05:00

So we just returned from my first vacation in Lake Geneva and boy was it fun. We went with the Stevens' family which is like Mom's second family. Katie and Bill rented a beautiful house (Ava's Grandparents) and we all came for some relaxation. Ava's parents Will and Carissa and their Aunt Patty and her kids Andy and Brittany came and brought their friends Kayla and Meghan. Also Mary (Katie's sister) and Gary and their kids, Grant his wife Jenny, and Kyle who brought their friends as well. We also had friends Tom and Judy hang out. To round out the group Gramma Bette! Mom and Dad even got a date night at Gilberts. Gramma Bette watched me, well I actually slept through the whole thing.

I went swimming in Lake Gevena, it was a little cold but I had fun. We also went on the boat and Mom and Dad videotaped it. Below you can see Grant and Jenny, Meghan and Andy, Daddy driving the boat and then Kyle, Grant and Jenny's friend, and Brittany and Kayla (they banged their heads together, it was funny).

Overall I had a great time. I'm looking forward to doing it again next year when I can run around and jump and swim and I think Mom and Dad will be happy because hopefully I'll be sleeping through the night. I'm off to bed, tired from VK as Gramma Bette would say. Peace out! Elias

P.S. Mom screwed up the sound somehow so it's set to soothing background music ;)

For the hubby...

2008-06-30T21:42:00.001-05:00

My Little Chirper

2008-06-30T21:27:00.004-05:00

Rise up this mornin',

Smiled with the risin' sun,

My little bird Pitch by my doorstep

Singin' sweet songs

Of melodies pure and true,

Sayin', ("This is my message to you-ou-ou:")

Mmmmm, highchair

2008-06-28T19:25:00.005-05:00

So I like sucking on my highchair, sue me. I also like sucking on my bug, my Bumbo, my blanket, my, wait I like sucking on everything!

Sorry I haven't posted in a while but Daddy has been out of town and Mom's been keeping me busy, not the other way around of course. I miss Daddy but he's coming back tomorrow. Mom, Gramma Bette and I have been keeping busy. For instance I now like to roll and roll a lot. The only problem Mom says is that I roll onto my stomach and cry. Yeah, that's right I forgot how to roll back. I used to do it all the time but I've had a lot on my mind. It's just easier to cry, make Mom get out of bed and come roll me back over. That way I get to see her every 20 minutes in the morning. Just wait until Dad gets back, than he can play that game with me!

Oh, I've also been laughing up a storm. I love it when Mom hides under my highchair and then pops back up. Man is that funny.

We're heading up to Lake Geneva on Thurs. and Mom and Dad are really excited. They say they need a "vacation" real bad. I'm not sure what this "vacation" is but I'm sure I'll enjoy it. Mom got me and Ava, that's her on the left, life jackets for the boat. If I fall off, which Mom said she'll have a grip on me like a steel claw, but if I DO happen to fall off it makes my head stay up and me on my back so my face isn't in the water. That's pretty cool. I may not post a lot but I know the 'rents are bringing the video camera. Peace out for now. Elias.

Green Clean & Booties

2008-06-24T11:48:00.004-05:00

Green and Clean Mom is giving away four pair of Isa Booties. Go ahead and enter here. And while you're there check out her site. It is informative, witty and all around good for you.

Portrait of a five month old.

2008-06-23T20:00:00.004-05:00

Wet & Wild

2008-06-22T20:19:00.008-05:00

So Mom and Dad decided to take the day off from yard work and head to the pool today. It was my first time "swimming" and I loved it! We met Gramma Sonny there and went to the kiddie pool. It had fountains and jets and a slide. I'm a little too small to hit the slide yet but let me tell you, give me a year or so.

Mom & Dad also bought me a turtle, not a real turtle but a floating turtle. I floated around for a while and got splashed by a couple of little girls. I'm assuming because of my good looks that they were just flirting. They also liked my turtle. I'm looking forward to using it again in Lake Geneva in a week or so. After swimming I relaxed a bit in the ol' stroller.

Mom is hoping that all the fresh air will help me sleep. I haven't been sleeping well the last couple of nights. The 'rents think I may be teething but all I know is I've been crying for an hour and I only want to be held. It's only late at night but again it's gotta be done. Peace out...E

Mmmm, pears

2008-06-18T16:17:00.003-05:00

So this is what happens when Mom lets me feed myself. I tend to miss the mouth and hit the forhead but that's okay. I still love her.

King of Cute

2008-06-17T19:25:00.001-05:00

Electric Grant Avenue

2008-06-15T20:29:00.006-05:00

Well we're broadcasting from a remote location today, Father's Day, since our power has been out now for 12 hours. Thankfully we celebrated Father's Day yesterday with Gramma Sonny and Grandpa Jim at our house. Dad cooked some great steaks and Mom made potatoes. Dad and Grandpa got really cool BBQ tongs and I got Dad a new bedroom TV. He's finally getting something called HD in the bedroom. He assures me when I'm old enough I'm going to love watching it with him. Especially old Bond movies.

Back to our broadcast. Mom, Dad, me and Marbie all headed over to Gramma and Grandpa's in Hinsdale to have a sleep over. Our power went out when we were at breakfast at Blueberry Hill. We came back and it was scary. There were trees down and branches all over. In our back yard was a huge branch that fell from our next door neighbors tree and dented our fence. Yeah, that's how big the branch is! Dad and Vig (the next door neighbor) are going to have to get it cut up and put on the street. Grandpa Bill is coming Tues. He may have to help. At least I get to have a sleep over in my nursery at Gramma Sonny's. Marbie even has his bed.

I wanted to end the post by saying Happy Father's Day to my awesome Dad who takes care of me every Monday and Tuesday when Mom's at work. I love spending time with you and I can't wait to watch these Bond flicks you're always talking about. Peace out...Elias.

Handy Dandy BPA-Free Wallet Card

2008-06-12T10:43:00.004-05:00

Because being a new mom means completely and utterly losing your memory this BPA free wallet card is perfect. Now when you're at the store you don't have to wonder if that toy or teether has horrible toxic chemicals for your precious little one, just pull out this handy dandy wallet card. Z recommends has the PDF version for you to print out and save so click here. Also if you're unsure whether a product has BPA you can text that product to Zrecs and they'll let you know. Have a great, chemical free day.

Let the good times roll.

2008-06-10T07:35:00.004-05:00

So Elias' rolling over has turned from super cool to making me nervous. He now likes to try and sleep in his side. I usually wait until he's asleep and then I move him onto his back. Well, most of the time he wakes up from this and gives me a whine of disappointment but then goes back to sleep. Last night, from 3 a.m. to 4 a.m., yes I'll repeat that 3 a.m. to 4 a.m. he decided to have a rolling over party in his crib. He wasn't disturbing us but with that video monitor I kept having to look to make sure he wasn't on his side. Twice I went and moved him, also mind you he did a FULL 180 degree turn. Yes his head was facing south when I put him down and when I went into his room later it was facing north. At approximately 4 a.m. he started crying. Well looking at our trusty video monitor we found him on his stomach with an arm outside the crib.

I'm going to call our pediatrician today but does anyone have any experience with this? I feel I shouldn't let him sleep in his side but he seems to SLEEP that way. Any words of wisdom would be great!

Oh what a night

2008-06-09T10:27:00.004-05:00

Sorry I haven't posted in almost a week, egad, but it's been busy. It all started last Thursday night. First, and obviously best, Elias rolled over. You seriously gotta love those video monitors. If it wasn't for our video monitor we would have never seen it.

I was up getting ready for bed, Gramma Bette and Brad were downstairs finishing watching the news. I always like to take a peek at Elias on the monitor before I go to bed and as I turned it on I saw him trying to make his way from his back to his stomach. Well lo and behold he turned over. I rushed downstairs to show Gramma and Dad and then he rolled back over to his back.

Well, that was the last Mom and Dad got to see of the rolling. Gramma Bette said he did it twice (from stomach to back) while playing the next day. Brad is bound and determined to get it on video to show everyone but Elias is not having that. We do have a lot of video of him being tickled and laughing his head off, which I'll post shortly.

But wait, our night was not yet complete. Enter Hero Dog and Daddy.

The scene, around 11:00 p.m., I'm asleep and Brad is watching TV in bed. Marbie starts barking so Brad goes to investigate. He doesn't see anything so gives Marbs a pat and tells him to go back to bed. Just as soon as Brad is back in bed Marbie starts barking again. I hear him and ask what he's barking at. Brad again goes to investigate. Next thing I know, Brad comes running upstairs and tells me to stay put there is a very drunk man trying to get into our house.

Here's the scenerio, when Brad went downstairs the second time (thanks to Hero Dog's continued barking) he opened the door and saw a drunk guy at the bottom of our porch. Brad told him to leave or he'd call the police. Well he didn't. Brad called the police, told Gramma Bette to stay in her room and came upstairs to get our trusty baseball bat that is kept under the bed. When he got back downstairs the man was now trying to open the door. That's when Hero Daddy yelled, "If you try to come in this door I'll bash you *&^#$ head in." The drunk man replied, "But this is my house."

I then called 911 and the Brookfield Police were already outside. Thankfully the drunk was not a mean drunk, just a sloppy drunk. The police spoke with him and tried again to tell him that our house was not his house. They finally found a phone number and got him home.

After a very scary night, we all had a good laugh about how truly wasted this guy was. I mean, there is a guy screaming at you with a baseball bat and you still think it's your place. To make matters even worse it looks as though he might have driven. The next morning I got up and behind my truck, parked the WRONG way on our one-way street, was an unfamiliar car half on the grass. It was gone by the time I returned but assumptions point to our drunk guy.

To end this VERY long post I have to give a shout out to my 13 year-old Hero Dog who barked and barked to make sure we knew something was wrong and my wonderful Hero Husband/Dad who protected his family like no other. Big props and kisses to you both...Carly

The more you know, the more you grow.

2008-06-03T12:25:00.002-05:00

Okay, I know I'm bombarding you with eco-friendly toys, but hey they're good for our kids and the environment. Check out ImagiPlay. They've got cute, eco-friendly wood toys made from splinter-free rubberwood with no toxic chemicals, paints, or dyes. I particularly love the Arctic Expedition!

Stress

2008-06-03T11:13:00.006-05:00

So I'm really stressing out about childcare. We're waiting to hear back from some friend's about nanny sharing, which would be ideal, but it has to be okay with their nanny. I've been checking out other options as well. The idea of leaving Elias with someone I don't know, scares the hell out of me. I know people do it every day and maybe I'll get over the fact but right now I'm scared.

Since there are no "big" daycare centers close to home we're looking at either a nanny or in-home daycare. I would prefer a nanny. The price is higher but you may get some cleaning and laundry out of it. Elias gets personal service and I'll worry less (I'll still worry a ton mind you) that he'll be left screaming in a corner while they attend to other children. In-home is not bad either if there are not a lot of kids. I had one lady email me back saying she's licensed for eight at a time, but only 3 infants. Eight at a time! Are you kidding me. So you're telling me my child will get 1/8 of your time. What does he do the rest of the time? To me that seems crazy. Some tell me prices of $4 an hour (which seems really low) and other $8. For $8 I might as well get a nanny.

I think I'm more upset about Elias going into daycare or leaving him with a nanny than I was returning to work. When I came back to work I knew Elias was safe. He's with his grandparents. They love him, nurture him and take care of him like the miracle he is. If we can find someone who adores him even 1/10 the amount I do hopefully he'll be okay. Actually I'm pretty sure I'll never be okay. Carly

Aren't we truly "Organic by Nature"

2008-06-01T16:23:00.003-05:00

Another great website to find safe toys for your little one. They offer organic apparel for Mom and Baby, chemical FREE skin care, unique Fair Trade toys, complete cloth diapering system for your little one, organic products for your pet and more! Check them out. http://www.organicbynature.ca/

Snoozing on a Sunday afternoon.

2008-06-01T09:59:00.000-05:00

Don't tell Mom the babysitter's Us!

2008-05-31T16:18:00.005-05:00

Today Mom and Dad had two extra kids around, Katie and Anna. You know what, it was really fun. First Mom and Dad put together our double stroller and we strolled on over to the park. I took a snooze and Katie and Anna played in the park. We went on home and then we all played. Anna colored, Katie played with Legos and I hung out in my bouncy seat.

When 3:00 p.m. rolled around I was exhausted so I had some chow and fell asleep. It had been a long day. I slept from 7:30 p.m. to 4:00 a.m. Mom said I'm almost there. I've been wanting to sleep in lately though. Mom woke me up the last two mornings. Mom says I get really cranky when I sleep in. It doesn't bother me getting woken up. I just am happy seeing Mom.

We also went to the farmer's market this morning. There are not too many vendors there yet but we got some more herbs, some onions, asparagus and organic bacon. All sounds good. Also Mom put on my cool shirt that Gramma Bette gave me. Mom said she gives all her clients this advice. Peace out...

Alex

2008-05-30T19:38:00.002-05:00

Erin & Mike's son Alex is 22 months old and too cute!

Four months already!

2008-05-29T11:11:00.003-05:00

Well I had my four month check-up yesterday. It went well except for the shots. I do not like those shots. Thankfully Mom was ready with some chow so after a few glugs I forgot about them. I even smiled at the nurse after she gave them to me. Besides the shots I weigh a hair less than 13 pounds and I'm 25 inches long. I've grown over a half a foot since I was born. Mom thinks that's not too shabby. My head is 43.5 centimeters around which is pretty big, but I have a big brain.

I'm laughing and laughing away. My most ticklish part is under my chin. I like to be tickled right before my bath. That is a ton of fun. I talk a lot, but Mom says that runs in the family and I'm almost rolling over. I can get my feet all the way over but alas (I know big word for a four month old) I can't get all the way.

My favorite toys are my bug, which Uncle Craig and Aunt Kasie sent (I bet cousin Sophie loved it too), my Winkel Gramma Bette bought me, and my O'Ball that Liza brought me. I love them all!

The Grandparents have been babysitting and doing a wonderful job. I love spending time with them. Last week I was at Gramma Sonny's and we had a blast. This week Grandpa Bill is back and next week Gramma Bette gets to put me to bed and watch me at night alone for the first time. Mom, Dad, Ken, Carla and Jon and Meera are going to see R.E.M. and Modest Mouse. I'm sure they'll have a good.

Mom will post another pic soon (like she hasn't posted enough already) and I'll continue to update you. Peace out...Elias

Memorial Day.

2008-05-26T00:00:00.000-05:00

Take time to remember our Vets on Memorial Day (Thanks Dad!). Love, the fam...

What should we name boy #2
	Silus
	Oliver
	Everett
	Other

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