Kisses fix everything?!

This morning my head was pounding (thanks to the champagne I drank while wrapping presents last night).  My little sweet bubba came  in an wanted to go get his breakfast.  I said, "Oh buddy, let's just cuddle for a minute.  Momma has a headache."  He said, "I will kiss it and make it feel better" and proceeded to kiss my forehead.  "Does it feel better momma?"  ....I hated to tell him 'no' because it was the sweetest thing ever!
Until next time...

22 Days until Christmas

It's beginning to look alot like Christmas around here.  Yesterday we were supposed to drive to Nebraska to watch my little brothers Tim and Tom play basketball, but the games were called on account of snow.  So...change of plans.  We went to "Arthur Christmas" and it gave me the bug...the decorating bug.  This year I have to balance school and prepping for Christmas so I was wondering when things would get done, but we did good.  We got the tree and mantle decorated (the extent of our decorating) last night and had a great time doing it.  We made hot chocolate with marshmellows, had warm jammies on, and Justin Bieber Christmas CD in the background. 

Jack was a big helper, but had problems getting the ornaments anywhere but his eye level.  :)  He called them "ottomans".  I had to work with him to say "ornaments" several times.  He'd pick one up and say, "Oh look at this pretty ottoman".  He'd walk to the same spot on the tree and attempt to hang it and I'd gently suggest, "What about up here?"  "Oh yes, mommy, that would be perfect!"  He's so stinkin' sweet. 
Here's the finished project:

After Mr. Jack was in bed and daddy went out to see some friends, I drank some bubbly and wrapped a bunch of presents.  It was definitely a productive night and now we're feeling a bit more prepared for my favorite holiday. 
Until next time...

Breaks. my. heart...

This morning was particularly rough for Jack at school.  I can speculate that it's a) not enough naps this weekend (we were just having too much fun), b) he is experiencing the same lack of motivation that his mom is, after the long break from school, c) he just wants to be held by his momma. 
My poor baby screamed when I left this morning and I had to restrain myself from running back in the room and squeezing him one more time.  It just tugs on the heart strings when your baby is crying.  I pray for him to have a good day with no outbursts, a nice long nap, and lots of laughter with his friends.
Today I'm thankful for his daycare teachers that love him when he's at school. 
Until next time...

And heeeeere we go!

It's here-- the race to the semester finish line and boy have I got a LOT to do!  But, it's going to fly, I know it.  19 days until Christmas break.  I. CAN. DO. THIS!  It's surreal to think we're almost in our last semester at school.  It's so close I can taste it! 
This past weekend was awesome.  We got to spend time with both of our families and that hasn't happened in the past 5 years Reid and I have been together.  Reid's family from Texas was in town and we had lots of food, laughter, and pitch playing.  I love that his family knows how to play pitch!  Me and Reid's cousin Neal beat everyone!   It was fun to play with him; he reminded me so much of my little brother Thomas.  They are the same age, so maybe it's just a 15 y/o boy mannerism. 
Thursday night Reid and I braved the Wal-mart crowds for Black Friday specials.  We have 2 more gifts on our list to purchase and that's IT!  It feels good to have that almost completed.  We put our Christmas lights up in our trees outside and we have plans to put up inside decorations this next weekend. 
My family came to KC on Friday night and left today (Sunday).  It was so wonderful to have them visit.  They came for a special Mass at our church.  Reid and I have been attending RCIA classes at St. Andrew's.  For those who do not know what RCIA is: Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults.  Laymans terms: a class for those considering entering the Catholic church, or for anyone that just wants to learn more about the church.  Anyways- Saturday was the official "welcome" by our priest, to those persons in the class.  My dad and mom wanted to be here and it worked out perfectly.  All but Tim was present (Tim had basketball all weekend) and we got to enjoy our family time with good eats, fun game time together, and celebrated my dad's 54th birthday. 
Tonight we went to meet William Joseph Altenhofen, one of my best friend's new baby.  He arrived 17 days early and we are so excited to watch this beautiful baby grow up.  Little Will has a full head of dark hair and he's just a tiny little peanut.  Jack picked out a glow worm to take him and was so sweet to him when he held him.  It made me excited for someday in the future when we're blessed with a baby brother (ok, or sister) for our little Jack.  He's going to be a great big brother someday. 
And now, since I didn't take ANY pictures in the past 5 days, I will leave you with some recent funnies from Jack:
*Last night at 54th St Jack spotted a peanut M&M character on the wall that was sitting in a armchair with his head resting on his hand and Jack said, "That M&M is sad!" 
*This morning I went in to wake him up and told him it was Ye-Ye's (grandpa) birthday today.  He replied, "And tomorrow is Jesus' birthday?" 
*He told my family today that "we put up Christmas lights for Jesus' birthday."  I said, "who puts up Christmas lights?"  Jack said, "The city does.  The whole city puts up Christmas lights for Jesus' birthday!" 

Apparently Jack's excited for Jesus' birthday and I LOVE that he knows it's Jesus' birthday.  Jesus IS the reason for the season.  :)
Until next time...

Random 10

So, I haven't blogged recently, primarily because I haven't had time.  Secondly- I lack inspiration at the moments that I actually have free time.  So, I'm stealing from a friend's (yes, Molly you!) blog to write "10 random things in 10 minutes.....ready....GO!

1) I'm so happy to have my feet up after a long day.  Gerontology clinical was today at a nursing home and as much as I was dreading it, it turned out to be a great day.  My 2 patients were so sweet and friendly.  One said to me- "I hope you learned something from me and have a great future.  Lots of kids!"  :)  He was adorable.

2)  I'm really excited for the chicken, scalloped potatoes, dinner roll meal I'm about to whip up for my boys! 

3)  I don't really care about any of the dancers on DWTS and yet I CAN'T STOP WATCHING...ugh.  Such a waste of my little TV time I get.  I have SO many shows to watch so I suppose I could stand to "trim the fat".  But, again...can't let go! 

4)  Speaking of "trim the fat"-- yesterday I signed into Facebook and was absolutely apalled to see a porn picture blazing at me on my news feed from a "friend".  Apparently some stupid bug is going around posting bad pics without the owners knowing.  So, I have decided I'm trimming the fat. I do NOT need all these "extra" people on my sight.  Yes, I may know you and I might have talked to you 4 years ago, but really you're out.  However, the process of deleting people is taking WAY TOO LONG...so I got 30 off last night...probably need about 300 or so more done.  Maybe in class tomorrow!? :)

5)  I'm so ready for Thanksgiving break next week!  I have Tuesday- Friday off-- woo woo!!  I cannot even tell you how busy this week is and I am going to L-O-V-E some time off.  I will have some schoolwork to do, but I just need a break. 

6)  I wish I had more money.  Who doesn't, right?  I have so many things I wish I buy.  And things I wish I could pay off (loans, house, cars, water purifier...but that's a whole other story).  I should count my many many blessing and not complain about money...but I guess not having a job makes me wish it a bit more. 

7) I can't wait for Jack to get home in a few minutes.  It is one of the best feelings for him to run through the door and yell "mommmmmmy" and squeeze my neck so hard.  He is the sweetest boy ever.  The other day at dinner I said, "Jack Kirby..do you know what?  I love you."  He replied, "Aww- thank you.  You're so nice mommy.  I love you too."  Ah- melt my heart.

8)  I do not want to go to class tomorrow.  Or write my research paper.  Or go to clinical on Thursday.  Did I mention earlier I'm ready for break!?

9)  I'm running out of thoughts...oh here's one- I miss playing the piano.  I need to schedule that in some time....since i have to schedule everything.

10) I'm looking forward to a trip to the KC Zoo this weekend (weather permitting).  Free entry for KC, MO residents with a proof of residency.  We love the zoo and didn't get to go this summer, so I suppose November isn't too late, right!?

DONE!  Hope you enjoyed. 
Until next time...

Funny of the day

I could probably change this blog into a "funny Jack quote of the day" blog and have enough to fill each day with laughter.  I love my little, intelligent, and inquisitive boy.  He sure makes for some good smiles.
Tonight on the drive home from dinner with our friends Matt and Lacey (in the dark mind you) he yelled, "It's a taxi!  A black taxi!"  Matt said, "You don't want to take those kind of taxis."  I realized he saw a police car and thought it was a black taxi. Too funny...
Until next time...

Time seriously flies...even if it's not all fun!

I CANNOT believe it has been been almost 2 months since my last post!  Oops...I am determined to get this updated today and it's now 950pm and the day is almost over. 
A lot has been going on in the past 2 months so I'll try to keep it to the highlights...

* I am now finished with both Pediatrics and OB rotations for nursing clinicals.  Both were great experiences and both are areas I could see a future in.  But, my pediatrics rotation really "sealed the deal" for me.  I have wanted to be in pediatrics for as long as I can remember and I'm excited to say that this is what I want to do.  I'm hopeful to find employment at Children's Mercy after graduation, but I know that it is difficult to get a job there.  My goal is to keep doing well in school and working hard and I know that it will work out the way that it is supposed to.



Our Service Project at Franklin Elementary: Handwashing Techniques with kiddos.  Teaching kids is a fun part of nursing school!

* On October 1st we took Jack to his first Arrowhead experience for the annual NW vs Pitt State game.  He did awesome!  Seriously I love portable dvd players because he was able to sit and watch CARS while mommy and daddy enjoyed the tailgate with our friends.  He also chowed down on tailgate food like a champ!  During the game he was cheering "defense" and "Go Bearacts" like he's been doing it for years.  Unfortunately the Bearcats lost the game, but it was still a fun day.

Our Bearcat family



Annual Arrowhead is not complete without this photo!

 * We returned to Carolyn's Pumpkin patch this year for what seems to be turning into another annual outing.  We now have 3 years of pictures at the patch.  It's fun to see how much Jack has changed.  He loved the animals, watching the pig races, and eating pumpkin donuts.  This year we were able to go with Jack's buddy Owen and his parents. 

These are 2 cuties, if I do say so myself

2011 Carolyn's Pumpkin Patch

* We took our family pictures in early October at William Jewell's (my school) campus.  It was a nice afternoon...and let me just say we've had a BEAUTIFUL fall!  The leaves were turned, Jack was cooperative, and I'm so happy with the results.  Clicks by Charity, Charity Trotter shot them and you should definitely check her out on Facebook!

* Halloween was just this past weekend and we had a lot of fun.  I'd say this year Jack really knew what was going on.  He was dressed up as Lightning McQueen's Pit Crew member ($5 on the last Just Between Friends sale!).  We went out with Owen, Hudson, Brynley, and Laini and the kiddos had so much fun.  We were complimented multiple times on our polite children.  And I have to say that our little people were very friendly.  They all said please and thank you at every house.  Watching Jack's methodical way of picking his one piece of candy was crackin' me up.  He'd say, "Hmm (and think for a few seconds)...I'll take this one!"  He was very excited and he got quite the loot.  Mommy is not looking forward to eating all the stuff Jack "can't eat".  :) 

* We also helped celebrate my Grandma Skoch's 81st birthday this last weekend in Seneca, KS.  We surprised her at Valentino's for dinner and took her to play Bingo.  Her face was priceless and she said her favorite phrase, "Oh, for-evermore!" when she walked through the door.  I'm thankful for that time with her and for us to see some of our extended family. 
So...those are the "big" events.  Sprinkle in a baby reveal party for our friend's, Maria and Sheldon Cook, the birth of my friend Alessia's daughter Laini, a roadtrip to Hastings with the little guy, and alot of studying and working. 

Will leave you with a recent "funny" from Jack:
Last night in church for All Saints Day, I whispered, "Ok Jack, lets go up (for Communion) to see Fr. Rogers."  He said, "Nooooo".  I said, "Yes, he will give you a blessing!"  And Jack softly replied, "And he will give you a chip?"  :)  I couldn't contain my laughter.  His innonence warms my heart...I suppose the communion wafer does kind of resemble a potato chip. 

I love this boy! 

Until next time...

BIG MILESTONE!

I meant to post this last week, but today is better than never...we are officially DONE with diapers!  Ahh-- that feels AMAZING!  In fact, I have a whole package of size 6 diapers if anyone needs any!  :)  When I picked Jack up from daycare on Friday, I had a note in his cubby that said he's been dry at nap time for 2 weeks and accident free- so they sent home the remainder of the diapers.  And we've gone 1 whole week without a diaper at home during nights!  We're so proud of our big guy. 
A big milestone for mommy- we're already 2 weeks into our fall semester.  This means we're under 8 months now until graduation!  Our current classes are Family Centered Nursing (OB, pediatrics, and gerontology), Nursing Research, and Psychiatric Nursing.  I think it's going to be a fun semester!  I start my pediatrics rotation in clinical next Tuesday.  I'm so excited.  We went to orientation at Children's Mercy today and I just love the environment.  I could see myself going to work there everyday and being happy.  We'll just see what happens when patient care starts...
Hope this finds you well!
Until next time...

Oh Jack...

Seriously my child could have his own stand up show.  :)  At least, I'd buy a ticket...
* I got a gift card to DQ from my Aunt Lisa for a study break, which was perfect timing before finals started.  So I told Jack we were going to Dairy Queen for dessert.  His eyes lit up and he said, "We're going to Dairy MCQUEEN!?"  Everything is CARS related these days :)
* On Thursday last week we got a potty report from school on which his teacher wrote..."Jack informed me that the poop on his underwear was from farting."  :)  I about died laughing and you can guarantee that's going in his baby book. 
Until next time...

"Elmo-ha"

This past weekend we took a mini-vacation to Omaha, or as Jack called it, "Elmo-ha".  I found a coupon for 2 nights stay at the Coco Key Water Resort/Ramada Inn, food voucher, and arcade voucher all for $144, and I couldn't pass it up.  Reid's family had talked about taking a trip over spring break last year, but it didn't happen, so this was the perfect opportunity to do it, seeing that I'm on break from school.  So, Judy (Reid's mom), Scott and Tes and all 5 kiddos, and Reid and Jack and I loaded up Sunday morning and made the long detour drive to Omaha.  Since I-29 is closed, it ended up taking 4 hours and we were really glad to be there.  The fun started right away as we changed into our suits and spent the afternoon at the pool.  There were tons of slides and a lazy river.  Jack was really brave (and had a lifejacket for help) and went down all the slides that he was tall enough to go on.  He loved it and DID NOT want to go in for the evening.  But, we got to have lots of good family time around the dinner/breakfast table and the food from the restaurant was awesome. The arcade was loads of fun, too.  We got a $30 voucher with our coupons and that ended up being 140 tokens to spend!  It took us 2 hours to go through it between myself, Reid, and Jack all playing games.  We ended up winning close to 400 tickets and got some fun little prizes for the ride home.  We also spent a day at the Henry Doorly Zoo.  Jack was so interactive with the animals this year.  He absolutely loved running around with the "big kids".  He got even got to pet some goats.  

I was very pleased with our stay and hopefully we'll get to return again in the future.  Here are a few pictures from the weekend.  

Jack and Ella at the zoo.  Big grins are definitely in the Kirby gene: 

Family photo opp:

All the kiddos (minus Ella) at the entrance of the zoo.  Jack wanted to play on the lions all day:

On our way home to KC, we made a detour to Seneca, KS to visit my grandmothers Sharon and Eleanor.  I was so happy we went and they were both very surprised to see us.  Jack entertained them with singing and it was just really nice to visit for a bit.  We don't get to see them hardly at all and I know they enjoyed seeing their great grandson. 

Jack, Great Grandma Bredemeier, Scooby the puppy and mommy:

Jack, Mommy, and Great Grandma Skoch.  She couldn't believe how talkative and smiley he was:

This trip was just what I needed after a hard semester.  I'm so thankful for my husband's family.  Jack is lucky to have 2 wonderful families to grow up in.  We are so blessed. 

Until next time...

Some funnies...

You may have read on Facebook the funny things that Jack has been saying.  However, I need to document them (before I forget them!) so that he can see them some year down the road.  Our little guy is quite wordy these days and honestly, I just don't know where he gets half of it! 
**The other night at dinner he ate his bread and looked at Reid and asked for more bread.  Reid said, "No, eat your spaghetti."  Jack looked at me and said, "He told me no! (with tears in his eyes)"  I said, "Well, then no more bread.  Eat your spaghetti."  Well he sat up really straight and said, "It's my life!" 
**I kissed Reid one evening in the kitchen and Jack looks up at us and said, "What is this game?!  Why are you doing this game?"
**Jack was home with Reid while I was studying at school this past weekend.  Apparently Jack didn't like the way something smelled.  He told Reid, "You're stinky."  Reid said, "no I'm not.  What smells?"  Jack replied, "Your booty."  (Ha!)
**I asked Jack about having chicken nuggets and fries for dinner the other day.  He replied, "Yep, that'd be great.  That'd be really great."  :)
**"You're driving me bonkers."  --To me the other morning while I was trying to get us ready for the day. 
**"There's a storm coming.  We have to run and hide!"  --while the storm was approaching a few days ago. 
**"Mommy, I pooped in the potty and it was BIG!"  --my new favorite saying, because it means he actually went in the potty!

Hope you've had a good laugh.  We certainly have!
Until next time...

Somebody Pinch Me!!

Ok- I can't put this off any longer!  I have been wanting to write an update for like 10 days, but I've been SO incredibly busy.  And Jack just walked through the door from school with another great "potty report card" from school, so I have to share...we're POTTY TRAINING!  Wow...I did not think this day would come!  It definitely has been up and down, but for the most part he's doing really great!  The hardest part, which I figured, would be going #2, but I think he's doing better!  He even went #2 at school today!  It's the best feeling when he comes home in the same outfit that he left in!  :)  He usually brings home his report card FULL of "potty" checkboxes filled and it makes my heart leap with pride!  He's waking up in the morning and at nap time dry.  This past weekend he had 2 outings with no accidents...it just seems like a dream!
We're doing a potty chart at home.  I made a CARS themed chart complete with fans in the stand to cheer him on!  He gets a sticker for every time he goes and he only has about 5 spots left until he gets to go to the toy store and get a new CARS figurine!  It's great motivation and fun for us to look at his progress.  He likes to count all the stickers he has. 

Another big milestone, another that I thought would never come, is that Jack no longer uses a pacifier.  About 3-4 weeks ago he just randomly stopped using it!  Reid told him it was "missing" one night and we've barely heard a peep about it since.  I'm thankful he didn't make much of a fuss...I that it would be much more difficult to get rid of. 

I can't believe how big my little man is getting.  He's still WAY into CARS, the movie.  We even got to see CARS 2 in the theatre with my whole family.  And then of course "Grandma Ginny" spoiled him with 3 new CARS figurines.  My favorite thing is to watch him have conversations with the cars.  He's so imaginative. 

Here's my big boy-- he's getting taller by the minute!

 This was funny- he was making faces at himself in the mirror before bath time. :)

Not a lot going on, besides school. This semester has been fairly rough.  I'm anxious for 10 day break starting Aug 13!  Only 2.5 weeks to go...so we're in the home stretch for this semester.  This fall we'll be having OB/Peds, Gerontology (Elderly), and Mental Health.  I'm looking forward to all of those rotations...maybe one of them is my calling!?  I did get to spend a day at KU Med yesterday, in the Operating Room.  And while you may not think it's cool/glamorous...I got to insert my first catheter before he had surgery.  He was already knocked out by anesthesia, so it took away my nerves.  The surgery was cool- they took a sarcoma out of this man's back...along with it 2 pieces of ribs!  It was pretty intense, but very awesome.  Maybe the OR is my future home??  I'm looking forward to all the possibilities. 

On that note...I just want to say THANK YOU to all of you for supporting me through this journey.  I realize I'm missing a lot of events and special occasions this year and I appreciate your understanding and patience.  I miss my "freedom" and all of my friends and family.  I can't wait to celebrate with you all when this is done.  :)
I think that's about it for now...hope this finds you well...

Until next time...

Update June 2011 edition

Well, if the absence of posting isn't saying it loud enough...I.AM.BUSY!  Phew- this past month has been a whirlwind of activity!  I will not bore you with all of the details, but I'll try to recap a little. 
School started May 18th for me and in just 4.5 weeks, I've completed the first 3 of my nursing classes!  It's been a rollercoaster ride, but I've made it!  And I'm feeling really good about where I am at in this program.  We've completed our first clinical and I'm just excited to keep moving.  325 days till graduation...not that I'm keeping track!  :) 
A few things I've found out about this type of nursing program that are similar to new motherhood.  1) You get little to no sleep!  Between having class for 8+ hrs a day and trying to read 2 gigantic-info packed books AND keeping up with assignments...let's just say my sleep has suffered a bit.  2) Just like a new mommy, they tell you "Take time for yourself."  With this program, I've really had to work hard at that.  No doubt in my mind that I am more sane today than I could've been, if I hadn't given myself some nights off to relax and spend with my boys.  3) As with motherhood, you decide how you parent your child...well in this program, you decide how much/little effort to put in.  The faculty has said from day 1 they want us to succeed, but if you don't put the work in, you won't get the results you want.  I think this time around I'm 10x a better student because I know what the end goal is.  I'm excited for what nursing has in store for me. 
My boys are hanging in there too.  It's tough to not be around as much.  Reid is so supportive and tells me all the time, "Do what you need to do and know that Jack and I are supporting you 100%."  That's the best thing he could say...especially when I feel like I've abandoned them for the next 12 (now 11) months.  Reid is staying busy at Cerner and enjoying it...I think.  :)  Jack is growing like a weed and just the funnest little kid.  His current loves are: CARS, Kung Fu Panda, bubble baths, swimming, "shooting" bugs, and reading.  His little imagination is running wild.  His excitement about the little things in life really warms my heart. 
We've got a busy couple of weekends coming up and are looking forward to the "FUN" we'll be having this summer, despite all the work.  This weekend, we're travelling to Wichita.  Reid and I have been asked to be godparents to sweet little Elle Madeleine Atchison (my cousin Jennifer's baby girl).  She will be baptized on Sunday.  We can't wait to meet her.  Next weekend, we're going home to NE for the 4th.  This will likely be the last time we go home until the holidays.  I'm looking forward to sun, fun, fireworks, and family time! 
Hope this finds you well and enjoying the summer, too.
Until next time...Here are some recent pics--

Jack's bubble beard:

Daddy and Jack playing with CARS:

Silly faces:

Loving summertime:

Jack's Cars ensemble is complete with Cars sunglasses:



Jack's a little ornery these days :)

A quick moment to share some of my favorite son's recent ornery-ness:
* We were walking out the door for school the other morning and I said, "Here Jack, carry your bag, please."  And he turned around and said, "No you carry it" pointing at me dead-seriously.  I couldn't help but chuckle and said, "No Jack, little boys help their mommies out" and he finally obliged. 
* Jack has learned how to "fake" different emotions.  He likes to pop out a fake cry if he's trying to get something.  Or at night time, his new thing is to say he's afraid of the dark.  Sometimes it seems to be legitimate fear, but the other night I went in for bedtime routine and he said, "Mommy I'm scared." I said, "What is scary?" He replied, "I see creatures!"  I said, "Where are the creatures?" "On the ceiling" (said with wide eyes and open mouth/half grin!).  Again, holding back a chuckle I said, "Tell the creatures goodnight and go to sleep!"  :) (he fell right asleep)
* Yesterday he was playing with his "Mack truck" (see CARS movie and you'll understand).  He got up on the couch and started driving it around our leather couch.  I said, "No Jack...Mack drives on the ground."  He said, (again grinning) "No mommy, Mack drives on the couch!"  I couldn't help but tackle him with kisses because he just looked so cute. 
I've got to work on my ability to keep a straight face...he's just too cute!
Until next time...

A great way to start the day!

This morning I had a very proud mommy moment!  Jack woke up dry and as I was getting ready to put the diaper back on him I thought, "Let's try to go potty!"  He jumped up and sat on the toilet and immediately went!  At first he looked surprised like, "Oh that really works!"  He was so happy and clapped and we high fived.  Plus he got to run in tell daddy, "I went potty in the potty daddy!!"  :) 
Here's hoping that this broke down some fears he may have and it will be a natural process for us!
Until next time...

It's the beginning of a very long year...

Today was my first day at William Jewell College for the accelerated track BSN program.  And accelerated is an understatement.  All day I felt like I was in a wind tunnel and information was flying by me left and right.  SYSTEMS OVERLOAD!  I'm exhausted, but trying to stay ahead of the game.  One day at a time, that's all I can do.  It will be quite an accomplishment when I'm done and I'm already counting down the days until graduation.  :)

Here's "Mommy's 1st Day of School" shot:

I sure am going to miss my little guy with all these hours I'll be studying...

Until next time...

Happy Mother's Day

Today is my 3rd Mother's Day!  And I can say that I feel more love for my son today than I thought I could ever feel for anyone.  Being a mother is hard to put into words.  It's challenging, but in the end the reward is immeasurable.  Jack has brought so much joy into our lives and I will be eternally grateful for this true blessing, motherhood.
Today I was wakened by my sweet little man saying, "Happy Mother's Day!"  He got to pick out what mommy would eat and brought me fruit loops, "Froo-ba-loops", coffee, and toast.  Also with my breakfast was a picture he made at school of his handprints inside mine.  I love getting new artwork, especially today.
We went to Cracker Barrel for lunch with all of Reid's family.  We celebrated birthdays (Aunt Jayne's and mine) and Mother's Day.  It was very special.  Jack's napping now and Reid and I got to enjoy the sun for a bit.
Tonight we've rented a redbox and one of my gifts was margarita mix-- my husband knows me too well.  :)  So, you can guess what I'll be drinking later on! 
Here's to a blessed Mother's Day to all of the wonderful women I know! 
Until next time...

RIO

Part of Jack's Easter basket was tickets to the movie Rio!  We finally got a free day to do this.  We just got back from Jack's first movie adventure.  He was pretty frightened by how loud the theatre was.  He's never been big on loud noises.  I could tell he was nervous, so I put him on my lap and his heart was racing!  But, after the movie started he mellowed out a bit.  Then when Nigel, "mean bird", came on the screen, he said, "I want to go bye bye.  I no like this movie.  I no like birds."  Ha- tough cookies--but, he stuck it out and by the end he was dancing the Samba with the cast. :) 

I highly recommend this movie if you have children.  It's colorful and fun and gets you dancing.  Plus the cast is full of great actors: Anne Hathaway, Jesse Eisenberg, and my favorites are Nico- Jamie Foxx and Pedro- will.i.am (see below).  Definitely a cute movie.

Until next time...

Catch up

Ok- I've failed in the past month...but, forgive me...life is starting to really pick up!  We've been all over the place and very busy the past 4 weeks.  We've made 1 trip to Hastings (another this weekend, then 2 weeks from now), mommy had a college reunion/girls trip, preparing for mommy to go back to school, daddy is settling in to his new job, and Jack is still loving every minute of school!
This past weekend we had a lovely, relaxing Easter--for the most part.  Aside from a little stomach bug that gave Jack (well, really gave mommy and daddy) some not so nice surprises in his diaper, we had a good weekend.  On Saturday we spent the day with Reid's family and started at their church for an egg hunt/inflatible jumpers/prizes.  It was tons of fun and Jack took part in his 1st egg hunt ever.  At first he didn't know what to think and then just started screaming excitedly and figured it out quickly. 

Jack's ready to hunt:

Cousin Ella covered in eggs:

Since that first hunt, we've been having to hide and hunt eggs every minute he sees his Easter basket.  So, we are obliging for 1 week, then the basket goes back into storage. 
On Sunday, Jack woke up to his gifts from the Easter bunny..still mostly excited for the eggs.  But, he did like his Cars bubblebath, a book about the movie Rio (which we'll be seeing next weekend), and his soccer shaped marshmallow sucker.  We went to Mass as a family and then lunch with Grandma, Aunt Sarah, Uncle Scott, Aunt Tes and all the kiddos.  It was so nice to hang out as a big family.  Sunday evening we had dinner with my brothers and Angela (Ben's gf) at 54th St.  A good way to top off the already indulgent weekend.  :)

Jack playing in the dandelions:

Family photo, Easter morning:

So, that's Easter weekend in the smallest nutshell I could find.  The next few weeks are even busier for us.  We are going to Hastings this weekend to watch Maggie and TIm in Sound of Music production at St. Cecilia High school.  Maggie is Maria and Tim is Rolf (Liesl's love interest).  We're so excited to see them and we know it's going to be great.  Then it will be May and the countdown begins for the start of my school.  May 18th is the big day.  I have lots of work to do, so I'll do my best to give updates as I can. 
Jack's doing great at school and we're loaded up on spring projects already.  It's time to send some to the grandmas!  He is getting ready to move to the 2-3 classroom, to make room for younger kids.  I think it will be a great fit.  He already interacts well with most of those kids and he is able to communicate well with them, too.  I'm happy he still loves it there. 
That's about it from the Kirby camp... hope you had a Blessed Easter!

Until next time...

Crib be-gone!

It's gone, kaput, no more, torn down, and laid to rest...the crib is no longer a crib!  Reid took off the side bars and we've converted (somewhat jimmy-rigged) into a toddler bed.  The bed that was loaned to us is over 20 years old and it is in fantastic shape, but doesn't work quite the same with all the attachments (ie; safety railing) as the new-fangled beds out there.  But, we managed to make it work...for now...and Jack LOVES his new bed.  We asked him to try and climb up into it and he got up on the first try, sat down, and said, "I like this new bed!!" with a huge cheesy grin plastered across his face.  He practiced getting in and out a couple of times before we read books and laid down.  And that's all it took...we officially have no more baby in this house!  I'm excited that he's becoming a little boy and learning all these "big kid" things.  We're on the hunt for a twin mattress set that he'll be able to grow with and use for awhile, but until then, the toddler bed will work. 
Until next time...

2 year old assertiveness :)

Jack sure showed us that he's ready for some independence this past weekend.  My family was in town visiting (pics to come) and he ate up every second with his aunts/uncles/grandma/and ye-ye, that he could get.  He led them around the living room and played "Ring around the rosey" and "Hokey Pokey" and he sat and watched the Jayhawks WIN on Friday and unfortunately lose on Sunday.  He lasted through all the heartache, screams of agony from his uncles, and cheers and jeers.  About a year ago, he would've never been able to sit through that KU vs VCU game, with my siblings, because he couldn't stand loud noises.  But, yesterday he was yelling at the screen with the rest of them!  :) 
He's also been using the phrases, "Uh...no" and "Uh...yes".  Kind of like a teenage girl talking with her girlfriends might say it..."uhhh...No!"  It's quite entertaining, even though he's telling us no.  We have no idea where he picked this up, either. 
And last but not least on the assertive train...Jack decided yesterday that he didn't like his bed anymore.  At nap time, he fought sleep really bad and I went upstairs to try and console him and he threw his pacifier out and said, "I don't like this bed!"  So, I didn't fight it, thought maybe he was distracted by the visitors and I agreed he could forego a nap.  Come bedtime...when he was VERY exhuasted after all the excitement we've had, he was crying and throwing his pacifier again.  He said, "I don't like this bed!"  So, we decided not to fight it (again) and put the mattress on the floor and made his "big boy" bed.  He sleeps on a cot at school and I'm thinking it's just been helping him transition naturally.  So, last night he laid right down on the mattress and said, "I want to sleep on the floor."  Literally 5 minutes later- he was OUT!  And slept the entire night!  So, we'll see how tonight goes and if we get another great night sleep..the crib is getting torn down and we're on the hunt for a real big boy bed! 
Until next time...

2 year stats

Jack and I visited Dr. Cattaneo yesterday for his 2 yr check up and he's healthy and BIG! 
Weight: 32.2 lbs which is just over 90th percentile
Height: 37 inches which is 98th percentile (phew!)
Head circumference: 19.75 inches which is around 85th percentile

I told my coworkers today about his stats and realized as I was saying the numbers out loud, that I better start saving for wardrobe and shoes for his teenage years...he's going to grow like a weed!  Babycenter.com height predictor (which I know is just an estimate) said that Jack will be 6 ft 4 in by the time he reaches 18!  WOW!  The disclaimer is that "there is a 50% chance he'll be within 0.8 inches and a 90% chance he'll be within 2.1".  And boys keep growing until about 21, so he could be taller!!  Holy cow!...my jaw drops just thinking about this.  It will be interesting to look back on this post in 16 years and see how they "guesstimated"! 
Until next time...

2nd birthday parties are FUN (RUN)

Life is so much fun with a 2 year old, and so are birthday parties!  This past weekend Jack had a birthday party fit for a king!  We invited 10 kiddos to FUN RUN, an indoor inflatible playground.  All of his friends showed up and I think they all had a blast!  Jack was SO excited to see this because he loves the movie Cars:

The kids played and had yummy cupcakes.  I made 48 cupcakes with green "grass" (green coconut) and I made little soccer toothpicks to go in them.  Our theme was soccer, again. 

Birthday boy's cupcake:

Jack loves cupcakes!:

I think if his love for Cars continues then that will be next year's theme.  After cake and ice cream, the kids gave Jack so many nice gifts!  He is sure one lucky little guy.  He got 2 Cars backpacks!  Here he is with one on while opening the 2nd:

I think they ran themselves silly.  I know Jack was sweating so much he looked like he had just gotten out of the bathtub!  It was so wonderful to share his special day with friends from near and far.  In fact, Jack's 2nd cousin Emery came all the way from Wichita, KS to spend the weekend with him.  They love playing together and it was very special to have him (and mom and daddy) here.  We feel very blessed to have wonderful people to surround our child.  Thank you for loving him, like we do.

Until next time... 

Happy Birthday Jack!!

2 year ago today, our lives changed in so many ways!  At 8:42am on 3/17/09, Jack Gerrard Kirby was born.  He was a big baby and shocked us with his size.  He has made every day better with his big cheesy grin, his sense of humor, and his unconditional love for us.  We could not be more blessed!  We love you baby!!!

Jack Gerrard Kirby, born 3/17/09:

1 year old:

2 years old:

Until next time...

Our independent, "school"-loving toddler

Jack is still LOVING every minute of "school".  He has been excited all 3 mornings this week so far and the last 2 days we've received a "sunny" rating on his report card.  My anxiety level is WAY down and I haven't even called to check on him today! (go me!)  I am so thankful that he's adjusting well. 
The last two morning's I've dropped him off, he's been very eager to get back in the building. 
Tuesday- since I haven't quite mastered the timing of leaving the house and getting to the building when they open, I ended up being 5 minutes early on Tuesday, so we had to wait in the car.  Jackwas squealingfrom the backseat, "I want to go to school!  I want to go to school!"  I said, "Just a minute, buddy...we have to wait for them to open the doors!"  When we did get inside, I took his jacket off and he promptly turned around and said, "Ok..buh bye mommy!" and waved me out the door.  At that moment, I realized he doesn't need me like he used to when he was a little baby.
Today (Wed)- we got there before his normal morning teacher and so he got to go to the 3 yr old room and wait.  He saw some new toys and was in awe.  He pulled out the drum and xylophone and exclaimed, "Oh my goodness!!"  Then he plopped down and smiled and said, "It's PERFECT!"  I could not even get him to say goodbye or I love you, to me because he was SO enthralled in those instruments.  :)  Not only does he take after his mother by loving school, but also her love of music.  (I knew there was part of me in his mix, somewhere...even if he's the spitting image of his father!)
Until next time...

1st day of school...1st day of school!

Today was an eventful day for us!  Reid started his new job at Cerner (days) and so Jack started at "school" (daycare).  While we were getting ready to walk out the door, I couldn't help but think of Nemo on Finding Nemo saying, "First day of school, first day of school, time to get up dad!"  I believe my son may have inherited my excitement for the 1st day of school.  We got out the door on time and when I dropped him off, he went straight for the toys and I barely got a kiss goodbye! 
Of course, I should've never worried, but in the 5 minutes I was in the building, I didn't think I could've possibly have told the woman everything she needed to know about taking care of MY son!  This was his 1st time away from home with strangers.  Would he look up and realize I wasn't there and have a meltdown?  Would he hit?  Would he say something he shouldn't?  Would he be a bully to the kids or play/share well?  I should've trusted in the fact that we haven't raised him to be an animal, and that he is actually a sweet and polite boy to others, as well as to us.  I was an anxious wreck for about an hour after I got to work.  I called Reid and started to cry and he says, "Babe, why are you crying?!"  I wailed..."HE'S MY BABY!"  And he kindly reminded me, "He'll still be your baby when you pick him up after work."  (Thank you dear) 
I told myself not to call more than once, so I waited until 8:30 and made the call.  I got to talk to his teacher, which she eased all my worries.  I had heard a child screaming in the background when they picked up the phone and my heart sank.."oh dear, that's Jack" I thought.  But, to my surprise, Danielle said, "Jack's doing fabulous!  I can't believe how much he can talk!"  (He does take after his mother!)  :)  I started crying tears of joy and relief when I heard this.  So, all was well and my fears were put to rest.  And even though I wanted to call at lunch, I knew they'd call in an emergency.
When I went to pick him up, he didn't even run over to me in excitement!  Instead, he flung himself on the floor and wailed because he DIDN'T WANT TO LEAVE!  (He does take after my love of school!)  We got a great "daily report".  He slept 1 hour and 40 minutes, ate all his lunch, and said his "ABC's" to the teacher before naptime.  And we found out he'll be moving to the 2 year old preschool room on Monday, just in time for his birthday.  Miss Danielle circled "Sunny" to describe his day.  I can only hope for an equally as good of day tomorrow.
God is good.  I'm so thankful for kind people to watch my child and empathize with me as the mom.  Here's to another great day tomorrow.  We'll see how long our morning routine/schedule keeps up! 
Here's my big boy ready to walk out the door:

My handsome guys ready for their big days:

Until next time...

Haircut

This is what a haircut looks like at our house:

Nothing like a toothbrush and a mirror for distraction.  :)

Until next time...

March is here!

Well, today is the start of an extremely busy spring for us in the Kirby household!  Our March and April, and a few May weekends are almost all full of fun activities! 
First off- I just want to put a plug in for Just Between Friends, a kids consignment sale franchise that I love!  This past weekend was the Spring sale for the northland location and boy was it awesome...again.  I took several items to consign and sold everything but about 5 items.  I made $110 and spent about $150, but hey, that's really only spending $40!  (Or at least that how I justified it to my dear hubby).  Plus I purchased Jack's entire summer wardrobe!  I got 17 shirts, 7 pairs of short, 7 complete outfits (so 7 more shorts and shirts), 2 swim trunks, 6 pairs of jammies, 3 plates, 2 DVD's, and 3 books...all for $150!  I was really excited about my finds and I think the only thing we'll have to buy is some shoes when his foot grows a little bit.  So, please, if you have children or you have children's items you want to sell, check out their website--www.jbfsale.com and search for a sale near you!  It is totally worth it!
Next BIG news for the Kirby household- Reid accepted a position with Cerner Corporation, a medical software company.  He will start March 7th and is going to be in a program called Velocity Business Consultant training.  He'll have weeks of training and then placed into a role.  This is such a great opportunity for not only him, but our family as well.  We will finally have a normal schedule- no nights and weekends (for now).  There is a potential for Reid to do some travelling, but it will likely be during the week.  And he is excited about some travelling- this is something he loves to do! 
With the new job/hours, Jack will be going to daycare.  I signed him up last night, actually.  He'll start Monday morning at Caroline's House.  The biggest "positive" for us is that the daycare is literally 1 mile (if that) away from our house, and I pass it on my way to/from work everyday.  He'll be in a room with 4 other 2 year olds.  At this point their in a transition room and then soon, they'll move into the 2 year old preschool room.  They've been waiting on another 2 year old enrollment to make the switch in rooms, so it will be perfect for all of us.  Another "positive" is that his teacher is a girl that used to work with Reid at Hy-Vee, so she's a familiar face.  I'm not as nervous about this transition as I thought I might be (ask me again Sunday night!).  Jack is very social and I think it will be such a wonderful thing for him to create new friendships and learn how to interact with other kids.  I'm hoping he will learn to share better, communicate his feelings, and learn to play in a group. 
So, lots going on, like I said.  Here's a glimpse into our calendar this next month:
March 5-6th: Jack and Mommy to Wichita for my cousin's baby shower
March 7th: Daddy's 1st day at Cerner, Jack's 1st day at school
March 10-12th: NE state basketball in Lincoln.  My brother Timothy is a Junior and this is the 4th straight year they've been to state.  They won the last 3 years! 
March 12th: Mommy has orientation for William Jewell BSN-AT program.
March 17th: Jack is 2! 
March 18th/19th: Jack's birthday party weekend, plus Sammy and the Atchison's are visiting
March 25-27th: Skoch family in town

Whew...You get the idea...and this is JUST MARCH!  So many exciting things to look forward to. 
Until next time...

17th on the 17th

Yesterday (2/17) marked the 23rd month Jack has been alive.  And he received a nice little gift- tooth number 17!  This is the first of his "2 yr molars" and boy has it been a long time coming!  Unfortunately, teething pains make being sick even worse.  Today we had to take him to the doctor's-- double ear infection.  This is Jack's 1st ear infection of his life and he's got it in both ears.  Poor little guy has been miserable.  He has been coughing and draining for 4 days now and for my own peace of mind, we took him in.  I was worried about RSV; which the doctor hasn't ruled out completely, yet.  He said likely the ear infection is causing the rest of the symptoms, so we'll treat those first.  And his lungs are clear, so that's a positive.  After his first dose of Augmentin this afternoon, I can tell we're making a little progress.  He actually ate some dinner!  So, here's hoping for continued improvements (they said he could get worse before better..of course). 
Hope you're staying well, with all the stuff going around!
Until next time...

Happy Valentine's Day 2011

This year we celebrated Valentine's Day a couple of days early.  #1- Reid is in an indoor soccer league and whaddayaknow, he has a game that evening.  #2- We took full advantage of Friday night off and thought we'd beat the crowds.  We even HIRED a babysitter for the first time ever.  I felt as though I have come full circle in the world.  I used to babysit all the time in high school and now I've got my "list" of available sitters growing!  :)  Reid and I enjoyed a night at Zona Rosa Shopping Center.  We ate at Abuelo's Mexican restaurant and then walked around the area.  We decided we'd each pick a store and buy ourselves Valentine's gifts, instead of pressure of picking out the right gift, etc.  It was a really fun way to ensure we liked them, too!  Reid got the 3rd book in the "Girl with a Dragon Tattoo" series and I got some jewelry from my new favorite accessories store, Charming Charlie.  And of course, we had to get a few things for Jack.  He'll be getting the books, "Kailan love Yeye", "My Fuzzy Valentine" (Elmo), and "Just Keep Swimming".  He loves to read, so any chance to add to his collection, we do!
Before we left for our evening out, we had to get a couple of pictures.  Jack was a little jealous he wasn't in them, so here is a Valentine from us to YOU!

We hope you have a LOVE-ly Valentine's Day!
Until next time...

22 months

My not-so-little man is 22 months old!  We saw a familiar face in Kohl's last night and she asked how old he was and I had to think for just a minute and realized he's 22 MONTHS OLD.  Wow!  I've said it before and I'll say it again- Time Flies!  In 2 short months I'll have a bonified 2 yr old, but I think he looks like he's 3-4 sometimes.  He's quite tall, as you can imagine, and just doesn't look like my little baby anymore.  In short, I'm loving this stage the most of all.  He's quite the conversationalist (If that's even a word).  He's loving, animated, nurturing, fun, and kind of crazy sometimes, but overall it's just wonderful. 

A few milestones/fun tidbits about Jack's day to day life at this point.
* He's got 16 teeth!  And I believe he's already trying to cut his back molars.  He's recently started doing the full-hand-in-mouth-chomping thing.  So, back to daily ibuprofen doses.
*Mr. Jack has an extensive vocabulary and he keeps us on our toes.  He has full conversations now and it's quite funny sometimes.  When he gets hurts (even minor injuries) he says, "Kiss it mommy".  I'll kiss it and he says, "Feel better?", prompting me to ask him "Does it feel better?" to which he always replies, "Yep!" with a head nod.  Another funny thing is how he asks us to 'find' things, such as we did when he was first learning recognition skills.  He'll say, "Where's the truck?  I no see it."  I'll say, "I see it" and he says, "Yep, I see it!" 
*He's so good at loving us.  He will hug us really tight and say, "Squuueeeze".  When Reid and I hug each other, Jack immediately wants "Up, hug too".  So, we take full advantage of a family hug when we get it.  He is always telling us "I love you mommy.  I love you daddy".  He can now tell us "how much?" and he replies, "Big much" with his arms outspread.
* I'd say that he weighs in around 32 lbs.  He has a big obsession with the scale (probably learned this from his parents..hopefully it's not really an obsession and just because he wants to weigh himself like us).  He'll get on top of it and stay, "Hold still" and then he'll tell us the numbers. 
*He is a great companion to go shopping with.  Last night in Kohl's we walked in and he said, "Lots of cute. Look at the cute!"  Lol.  And he's forming his own opinions.  I brought home two outfits to try on for a party last weekend.  I put one on and Jack said, "I no like it."  (He learned to be blunt from me).  Needless to say, I did not wear that outfit and it's already returned to the store (I didn't like it either after getting it home).  :)
*He's getting more and more into sports.  We watched daddy play soccer last night and he was going crazy!  Jumping up and down, yelling for Daddy to "go Daddy go!"  He enjoys "passing" the soccer ball and pretend headers.  He and daddy have been working on his football passing skills too, oh and basketball.  We will make a hoop with our arms and he'll throw it up.  He's pretty good!  We're hoping to buy him a basketball hoop for his birthday, so he can really practice.  And the more we get close to 2, the more excited I am for him to start soccer practices.  They really start them at age 3! 
*His favorite foods include everything that kids love: hot dogs, grilled cheese, mac 'n cheese, ravioli, "Chicken fry dip" which translates to chicken nuggets and dip, occasionally with fries (we buy the frozen nuggets as this is a request for EVERY meal if we let him choose), and good 'ol PB&J.  He does enjoy his veggies and fruit too, so I'm thankful for that.  He doesn't like to try very many "new" things.  But, hopefully his tastebuds will change soon. 
I could go on for hours, likely, but these are the first tidbits that came to mind.  Thanks for checking in. 
Until next time...

Happy Holidays, 2010.  Love the Skoch's:

Phone conversations

Lately, Jack has become more and more talkative on the phone.  He used to just want to push the buttons, but now he is starting to get the hang of having conversations.  Today was our first full conversation while I am at work-- no help from daddy! 

Me- "Hi buddy...what are you doing?"
Jack- "Pllaaaying"
Me- "What are you playing?" (no answer so I asked a different question) "What's on T.V.?"
Jack- "Frrankkliin"
Me- "Is Franklin your buddy?"
Jack- "Yep!"
Me- "Ok, I better go.  I love you!"
Jack- "Buh-bye!"

This just melts my heart.  And keeps me motivated to get my work day over with and go home and "plllaaay" with my Little Bubs. :)
Until next time...

We wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Christmas and New Year's always seem to come and go so fast.  There is a lot of anticipation leading up to Christmas; planning celebrations (with each of our families), getting THE perfect gift for everyone on your list, decorating, wrapping, and this year it included teaching our son about the real meaning of Christmas.  (I realize he doesn't fully understand that Christ was born to save us, but he at least knows who "baby Jesus" is now).  Then all of sudden the celebrations are over and ...whoa...it's a New Year! 
For the day of Christmas this year, we were in Kansas City, able to spend time with Reid's side of the family.  On Christmas Eve, we gathered at his aunt and uncles and enjoyed a great lunch (Stouffer's lasagna- Reid's favorite) and we tried a new way of exchanging gifts- a $40 pseudo-white elephant.  I'm not sure everyone was receptive of the idea, but it was fun and nice to keep things different.  We ended up with a massage (for me) and a folding table and chairs (which really is something I wanted and Reid obliged my request...thanks honey).  All in all, its not really about the gifts, but we enjoy being able to all be in the same house for even just a few hours.  I've said it before and I really am so thankful for wonderful inlaws.  I had to leave and sing in the choir at St. Andrew the Apostle (our parish) for the 4:30pm Christmas Eve Mass.  This Christmas marked the year (plus a few days) anniversary that I joined St. Andrew's choir.  It is something I enjoy doing and feel like I'm able to "give a little extra" in the way of my time to the church.  The Mass was beautiful and the music went well.  Afterwards- we finished up the evening with more games and way too many good eats. 

Here are a few pictures from the day.  Jack acted out the part of the shepherd, while Uncle Mark read the story of the birth of Jesus from the Bible.  The other is a picture of Jack dancing to the "chicken dance" song.  Aunt Jayne introduced him to it by giving him a lovely (annoying) little button that plays it over and over and over.  AND- he knows how to turn it off/on, so no more telling him that the chicken is sleeping.

On Christmas morning- we woke up and had presents with just the 3 of us.  It has been something that has been difficult for me to transition into; our own family just being 'us'.  We've always been with one family or the other for Christmas morning.   While we went to Reid's moms after our presents were opened, it's just different not having all the people around for the moment when stockings are discovered or presents are opened.  Maybe it's because I grew up with 6 siblings and there was always so much going on, on Christmas morning.  I guess it's just part of becoming a new family...another part of growing up.  I guess we need to add a few more kids to the mix and then it won't be as quiet.  I suppose I should appreciate it, while it lasts.  :)

Jack was really into Christmas this year, which is rewarding to watch as a parent.  He was so excited to open the presents and even helped to pass them out to mommy and daddy.  Santa was definitely good to us again this year and we're thankful for that.  We spent Christmas afternoon at Judy's for a delicious brunch and more games (we really love games).  Of course the weekend wasn't long enough with both of us not taking any extra time off.  But, the nice thing about this year was that both holidays were on a Saturday and for me that meant 2, 4-day work weeks!  And Reid got both Fri/Sat off, 2 weekends in a row. 

Last night was New Year's Eve and after much discussion about the "plans" for the evening, we settled on just hosting a few of our friends over to play games, enjoy some drinks, and just have a laid back evening.  We've concluded that it's easier with having Jack to put him to bed and entertain in our home.  It was a great time with great friends and we all made it to midnight for a toast! 

We're definitely excited for the upcoming year.  It's kind of like a new chapter, with each new year and we can't wait to see what this one is about.  School, new milestones with Jack, who knows what else!?  We pray for health and happiness and that God continues to bless each of you, as well. 

Until next time...