The Nanney Blog

NLCS

2011-10-13T18:16:00.001-06:00

Go Brewers Go!

1, 2, 3s

2011-10-08T18:01:00.001-06:00

Noah showing me how he draws his numbers.

KINDERGARTEN

2011-08-22T19:39:00.002-06:00

Noah is attending private kindergarten this year. We thought he was going to do another year of preK, but the staff thought he was ready. We could potentially do another year of kindergarten in the school district next year - one day at a time though!

REST IN PEACE BUGGY

2011-07-28T08:30:00.001-06:00

OLD PALS

2011-07-23T09:07:00.004-06:00

Noah and Buggy hanging out.

HOT

2011-07-09T19:36:00.002-06:00

Eating outside in 100°.

CHECKING MY EMAIL

2011-07-05T14:41:00.003-06:00

Whenever I take Noah to work, he jumps on my computer. He tells me he's checking his email.

GOO

2011-07-01T18:45:00.001-06:00

Noah's teachers made his some gooey plasma type stuff. He played with it for a while - longer than most toys. After he was done, I saw just how much fun he was having with it.

ALL SET

2011-05-15T10:13:00.001-06:00

Noah told me he has every thing he needs: dog named Figaro, flashlight and lunchbox.

DATE NIGHT

2011-05-14T17:01:00.001-06:00

Mini golf sans child.

CAR RIDE

2011-04-22T11:49:00.001-06:00

Noah occupying himself during the long car ride.

Haircut

2011-04-09T08:19:00.001-06:00

At mama's work getting a haircut.

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY

2011-04-03T18:26:00.001-06:00

Here's to a great 7 years! Can't wait for the next 7 to unfold.

It's Been Too Long

2011-04-02T06:56:00.001-06:00

I don't find time any more to post to the blog, but now I can do this from my new phone!

This pic is of Noah wearing his new swim outfit he wants to wear all the time.

TRIP TO WI CONTINUED

2010-09-24T15:19:00.008-06:00

After Elkhorn, we headed to Stoughton to stay with my mom and Ron and have a reunion with her side of the family. We had a great time there as well - it's been too many years since I've seen many of my cousins.

Uncle Adam showing Noah off to the family.
Yup, he just picked him up and started walking with him.

Noah's second cousin, John.

The car didn't work, but Noah didn't mind.

Too much going on - he was out for a while.

My beautiful cousins Dena and Anna.

Papa Ron and Noah out grillin'.

ELKHORN PICS

2010-09-21T06:30:00.007-06:00

Our trip to my hometown consisted of a trip to the local fair and staying at G'pa Rick and G'ma Donna's house. They were still playing the same 80s music at the fair - love it! It was awesome to now take my son to the same things I had gone to at his age.

Someone needed to ride with him.

Noah and G'pa Rick.

Noah and Nana.

Noah and Nana on the ferris wheel.

Tummy tickle.

Beautiful, large draft horse.

This should give you an idea of how big he really is.

Lots of personality.

So sad, yet cute.

Noah shoving a piece of straw in the bunny's eye. Must be a boy thing.

I'm pretty sure this is my first pig race (and last).

Hangin' out.

Second cousins.

G'pa Rick and Noah in Elkhorn.

PLANE RIDE

2010-09-20T19:11:00.004-06:00

Noah and I (sans daddy) took a trip to Wisconsin to visit family. We had a great time. This is Noah's second time on a plane, but possibly the first time he'll remember it. He really enjoyed the turbulence and others laughed nervously around us since he wanted to do it again.

Noah and Buzz. This timing was unplanned!

YOU CAN DO IT SAM

2010-09-11T13:03:00.003-06:00

One of Noah's favorite books to read, especially with Ryan, is "You Can Do it Sam." Here's a clip we find amusing - he does this every time we read it to him. I'll be sad when these days are over.

SCHOOL DAYS

2010-09-11T13:01:00.001-06:00

Noah's first day of pre-kindergarten.

POTTY PARTY

2010-08-14T07:26:00.004-06:00

Noah's potty training was about a year and a half in progress (or lack thereof). Then one day he decided it was just his time. The day before Mother's Day, Noah went potty on the toilet for the first time (and poo poo two days later)! He said for his reward he wanted a skull and bones cake. Enjoy . . .

OVER THE PAST FEW MONTHS . . .

2010-07-19T06:48:00.001-06:00

If you enjoy looking at pics of Noah and our family, would you mind leaving a comment on this post, so I know if I should keep up with it or not? I just didn't know if anyone looked at it anymore.

Noah and Granddad at the Arch in St. Louis - Easter 2010.

Noah at school posing for the camera. Can you say too cute!

Noah's first time ice skating. I think it lasted 30 seconds.

Noah and daddy digging for dinosaur bones. He may not look like Ryan, but he sure does act like him.

Noah sleeps with his Bible every night. It took about 3 days for the pages to all curl up.

VIDEO

2010-02-16T06:05:00.001-06:00

Just a little something we find amusing . . .

MORE SNOW PICS

2010-02-14T14:18:00.004-06:00

Here are a few good shots of our 10 - 12 inches of snow from February 11th. By Valentine's Day, it was almost all gone. Thank you, mother nature, for a day off work!

Looking down our street from our house.

Just down the road from our house. It was actually closed from downed trees.

CHRISTMAS

2010-02-12T13:40:00.004-06:00

In case anyone's still interested . . . .

Dressed for Christmas Eve service, which we turned around after 2 miles trying to brave the "snow storm." He looked cute though.

Santa did a great job.

Ooh, M&Ms - his fave. How did Santa know?

More M&Ms? Oh, happy day!

Yes, a dinosaur.

Christmas morning at Starbucks with a new toy.

Taking the new toy for a test drive.

SNOW IN TEXAS - FOR REAL!

2010-02-12T13:26:00.004-06:00

Since these pics were taken, we actually had several more inches of snow fall. I'll post more soon. Noah got to make his first snowman, too!

MAMA'S LITTLE HELPER

2009-12-27T21:23:00.004-06:00

Noah's really good at helping around the house (when he wants). Sometimes he'll grab anything (paper tower, kleenex, hand wipes) and wipe the doors or the floor. He's great at putting the dishes away. Here he is helping me make dinner.

Showing off his mixing abilities.

He takes it very seriously.

Very proud of his work.

CHRISTMAS CONCERT

2009-12-27T21:15:00.003-06:00

The moment I have been waiting for since Noah came into this world - school concerts and a Christmas one at that. I was so excited and had no idea his daycare would be putting on a concert until two weeks before. Noah did great. We have it on video too, but too large to load on here. I'm so glad we have more of these ahead!

Not into it at first.

Started to move a little.

What's this? He memorized the choreography.

Aw, look at him!

2009-12-20T21:06:00.001-06:00

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

HALLOWEEN

2009-12-05T14:42:00.003-06:00

Here's Noah trick or treating on Halloween.

Is that a smile while he's standing still?

Even the sky knew it was Halloween.

Admiring the Halloween decor.

Hamming it up for Daddy.

TRICK OR TREAT

2009-12-05T14:36:00.002-06:00

Almost caught up . . . here's some of Halloween. These pics are from Noah's costume party at school.

Doesn't look happy.

If you look a little closer . . . if looks could kill!

Costume parades are hard work.

Mama and Noah, of course.

Here's a shot of the whole costume. Noah was a dinosaur in a dragon costume.

PUMPKIN PATCH

2009-11-09T07:08:00.001-06:00

Sometimes it take a bit for Noah to warm up!

Where's Noah?

Noah's the only one taking a good family picture.

We had to bribe Noah with popcorn to get him out of the bounce house.

See, it worked!

Same pumpkin house as last year!

HAPPY THIRD BIRTHDAY TO OUR BABY!

2009-11-08T13:28:00.005-06:00

Noah celebrated his third birthday mid October. He had a fascination this year with dinosaurs - more specifically a dinosaur cake. Thanks to all who celebrated with us and for all the wonderful gifts. Noah had a great time!

The long awaited dinosaur cake.

The men out grilling.

Some of the party-goers.

More party-goers.

Noah had fun playing dinosaurs with his cousin Leif.

You can tell who's excited about what.

Ooh a dinosaur!

Hmm, is that green frosting from a dinosaur?

Tasty!

Family photo opp, of course.

TOOK THE MIDNIGHT TRAIN TO ANYWHERE

2009-11-03T20:26:00.003-06:00

One of Noah's favorite songs is "Don't Stop Believin'" by Journey, which I have on my phone. The conversation must have been too loud for Noah to listen to it, so he held the phone (already on loudspeaker) up to his ear for full enjoyment.

BIG BOY BED

2009-10-05T07:00:00.001-06:00

Ah, the bed's finally here!
Noah's wearing baby sunglasses he found underneath his crib. I swear this kid's like Bono with his sunglasses. He wears them everywhere.

Sheets and all!

The next project is completely revamping his bedroom - paint, furniture and all. Seeing as I have loads of time to blog, redecorating a room should take no time at all!

BYE-BYE CRIB

2009-10-04T13:22:00.004-06:00

Noah five months old staying the first night in his bedroom.

Noah's last time sleeping in his crib.

DINNER TIME

2009-10-04T12:48:00.004-06:00

Noah's version of trying something new to eat.

FAMILY VISIT

2009-08-24T06:21:00.004-06:00

We had Ryan's family in town this past week. It's been more than a year, since we've all been together. It was so much fun watching Noah's cousin, Morgan, and him play together - they had a great time. Here are a few highlights . . .

Noah enjoyed sharing his beverages with Morgan.

Family dinner out.

This is how Noah protests leaving Mama's work - Morgan joined in.

Playing in the cardboard "house."

Family photo opp.

NATE'S B-DAY PARTY

2009-08-23T13:59:00.003-06:00

Sorry for the blogging delay. There's plenty to catch up on. Here's all the way back to Nate Hellerman's 3rd birthday party in early July. We had a great time. At first, Noah was hesitant to join in the fun - by the end, we couldn't get him to leave.

Ryan had to coax him in the water.

He warmed up, and wanted to play in the water jungle gym.

Then we wanted to take on the slide - the other direction.

And finally, trying to get Noah to leave.

THE HARMONICA

2009-07-12T13:09:00.006-06:00

Noah received a harmonica for his birthday last October, and yesterday, he finally decided to make use of it. Maybe it's because I'm his mama, but I find much joy watching these.

Don't you love how he just puts it away.

OUTSIDE THE BOX

2009-07-06T17:01:00.003-06:00

We've been moving into the new Aveda Institute at work, which means loads o' boxes. My new co-worker Kate loves kids. Once she heard I had one, she decided to build Noah a house. He's had a box house before, but was thrown away due to over usage. My boy's happy to have a new box house again!

CEO

2009-07-05T06:43:00.002-06:00

Noah and Ryan came to visit me at work the other day - I think we (Aveda Institute) were the only ones working on the 3rd, which made my LONG commute shorter than usual.

Getting my baby acquainted with the 9-to-5 life (now 8 to 5).

Let's schedule her a fake meeting.

Noah Nanney, CEO, how can I help you today?

Here's a sneak peak of the new Aveda Institute Dallas (partial retail area).

AFV

2009-07-04T14:01:00.004-06:00

Ryan, Noah and I have been looking forward to Sundays lately. We found out that Noah loves to watch the full hour of America's Funniest Videos. We sure do love that HOUR!

WEDDING

2009-06-21T19:54:00.007-06:00

We attended my cousin's beautiful wedding last weekend. This time, Noah didn't burp as the bride walked down the aisle - just a hearty laugh while someone was singing. We had a great time, and Noah did really well. He enjoyed watching everyone on the dance floor as well as the pool at the reception. I also enjoyed dressing him up - he wore his first tie (non-clip) with skulls and bones with pin-stripe pants and sandals. Good thing I don't have a girl to dress up - we'd be poor.

This pic gives the full view of the outfit.

Family photo opp.

Check out those cheeks!

My cousin Rife watching his new wife Angie coming down the aisle (parents in the foreground).

The vows.

Too cute!

Wanting to play in the fountain and pool.

Noah with all the girlies on the dance floor.

Noah's big into observing. No dancing here, but I can tell he's having a great time.

WARNING: BAT IN THE CAVE

2009-06-14T07:34:00.001-06:00

One of Noah's regrettable pictures he'll learn about later on in life that his mama posted to the world.

JUST LIKE MAMA

2009-06-13T07:32:00.000-06:00

When Noah and I get ready to head out, he's a great helper - he loves to grab my purse to get us out the door. What a ham. He usually has several stuffed animals in the car as well.

Come on, Mama! I got all our stuff.

NANNEY'S SHOOT A BOGEY AT COLONIAL

2009-06-11T20:03:00.004-06:00

Ryan won two tickets to The Colonial. We had just been talking how we've enjoyed going to the Bryon Nelson but have never it made it to the other local golf tournament. We were very excited. Even though Noah came down with pink eye Friday night, all was under control, and we thought it safe to venture to the tournament Sunday morning.

Maybe the first sign that our day was to not go smoothly is that we skipped church. Then we started out at McDonald's with cold beverages. Noah drank a lot of orange juice quickly. Our thought: wow, he was thirsty!

Noah's starting to whine a bit when we're arming ourselves with sunscreen and before we venture onto the shuttle to take us to the grounds. Nothing out of the ordinary though.

It's warm out, but nothing a little cool air can't fix in the retail tents every hour or so. We thought it was a little weird when we were finally cooling off and Noah was starting to whine more. Hmm, maybe he doesn't like golf. We continue to venture further into the course.

We found Ben Crane, a professional golfer who attends our church, so we thought we'd stop to watch him line up his shot on the 17th. Just then, Noah starts wailing. The only time we stopped to watch a golfer and our kid is screaming. We yank him out of the stroller and run down the hill hoping it's out of ear shot of most golfers. Noah's inconsolable and can't begin to figure what's wrong with him, and then he vomits! He vomited all his orange juice just of the 17th fairway on me and all over himself. Yup, we were those people!

So we calmed him and stripped him down and carried him all the way back to the shuttle. We did catch a glimpse of Jim Furyk and watch Vijay Singh warming up, but that's about all.

We remembered something the doc said at urgent care regarding Noah's pink eye. If it's viral, he may experience flu- or cold-like symptoms later on. We gathered that was it. He was so uncomfortable the rest of the day and after a round of Tylenol, slept most of his discomfort off, yet the pink eye continued for almost two weeks.

So much hope and excitement around these tickets!

Noah was ready to go! No signs of flu or cold.

Post 2-hour nap in his crib - he wound up in our bed for another 2 hours.

Noah in Buggy's domain.

PS: No pics of the tournament since no cameras or cell phones allowed.

POOPED

2009-05-18T08:00:00.000-06:00

This is what long school days and lack of naps will do to a kid on the ride home. He's out!

PARTICIPATING

2009-05-17T08:00:00.000-06:00

I headed to New Orleans recently for a few days of training and left Ryan the title of super dad. I just had this strong feeling Ryan would dress Noah in the whitest outfit possible on the very day they would get hands-on at school. Boy, those motherly intuitions were right on.

Thank goodness for washable paint!

Too cute!

LIFE CHANGES

2009-05-16T12:35:00.004-06:00

In case you're not aware of what's been going on in the Nanney household since our last post, I have started a new full-time job, which means Noah has entered daycare for the first time - ever!

We're slowly, but surely adjusting to our new life, and everyday gets a smidge easier than the previous. It sure makes me so thankful for my two-and-a-half years home with Noah. What a gift. Looking back, the time has flown. Thankfully, we were in a good spot in our lives for this shift. Noah's gotten to an age where he needs more stimulation and interaction than I could provide for him, and it was getting to a point for us to think about preschools.

The daycare/school we found for Noah provides everything we were looking for. I hate being gone from him so long every single day. We can just pray this will all be for the better. As of right now, Noah's just starting to take naps at "school" and has been participating from the beginning in activities. The lack of napping wreaked havoc on our home life at first, but like I said, each day's getting a little better. Here are a few snap shots of the transition.

Daddy and Noah before leaving for the first day of "school."

Mama and Noah before leaving for the first day of "school."

Noah in the car right before the big change - that's the school in the background. He looks a bit nervous! Dont' worry, he didn't even cry - a bit clingy, but no tears.

AND FINALLY, EASTER!

2009-04-20T13:46:00.005-06:00

We started off the day with an amazing church service - very powerful. Later, Noah got a small Easter basket. I decided not to overdo it since he doesn't need the extra sugar power. We still have many more Easters for him to indulge. No worries, Noah still got his fill of candy. We then had my aunt and uncle over for a nice afternoon and meal, and we finished up the day with egg dying.

Papa and Noah before Easter service.

Noah chowin' down on candy.

Easter Bunny got him bubbles complete with a large wand.

Swatting the bubbles.

Hey, Daddy made it in a picture.

Noah went for the blue dye.

DAY BEFORE EASTER

2009-04-20T13:33:00.004-06:00

Our church put on Easter festivities for the children the day before Easter. We decided to take Noah for the first time. It was still a bit overwhelming for a 2 year old, but overall, I think he enjoyed it.

Noah tried the (regular) bounce house . . .

the maze bounce house . . .

just enjoy this pic (that's Nana's head)!

the slide coming out of the maze bounce house . . .

a Noah fave - petting the animals . . .

can't forget the Easter egg hunt . . .

and Papa documenting it all! Love the basket, Papa!

FAMILY MOMENTS

2009-04-20T13:08:00.004-06:00

I'm way behind on posts with lots of pics. Here are the pics from my mom and step dad's visit. More to come . . .

Noah was always into their stuff - sunglass, altoids, phones - you name it!

Noah and Nana (my mom) before the Easter festivities at church.

Noah giving Papa the run-around (and around and around).

Thanks to my mom and Ron watching Noah, Ryan and I were able to go out for a nice meal and drinks to celebrate our 5-year anniversary. Love you, Cutie!

FROM BABY TO LITTLE MAN

2009-03-31T12:33:00.003-06:00

Noah and I were cleaning out his closet the other day, and he came across a few baby items. He had fun reminiscing. He's such a little man now, it's hard to believe he was ever an 8-pounder.

Testing out his baby bathtub.

He seems to remember how to use his tummy-time mat.

Future architect or stocker boy?

Already has the manly leg cross happenin'.

NATURE

2009-03-25T12:56:00.004-06:00

Here are some random pics of nature around the Nanney household. I thought they were pretty or weird enough to post.

Is this straight out of Ghostbusters or what?!

That would be a police woman on horseback in our neighborhood.

Just because she's cute to her mama.

First rose bloom of the season.

WALK THE DOG

2009-03-20T14:13:00.004-06:00

Noah and I have been spending many of our days outside. It's been so beautiful, and he loves it. Buggy wanted in on the action but may have had second thoughts when Noah wanted to take her for a walk.

MAXIMUM COMFORT

2009-03-16T14:35:00.003-06:00

Noah's idea of a wagon ride on a nice day.

LITTLE STINKER

2009-03-13T09:53:00.003-06:00

I had some relatives in town from WI, so my aunt and uncle hosted a BBQ at their house for a big get together. I didn't get any shots of the relatives since I was so busy taking pics in all the natural lighting and running after the little man. Here a few faves.

Here's the sweet side.

Noah loves doggies.

Sherry, this one's for you. Here's your "Little Stinker."

Noah wanted to join in so badly.

Daddy and Noah photo opp.

Noah's famous "all done" pose.

My mischievous baby.

REACH FOR THE STARS . . .

2009-03-12T13:36:00.003-06:00

. . . or the nearest overhead light. In our house, markers aren't just for coloring. Noah enjoys making a wand and standing each marker upright very carefully.

Almost there . . .

Even after I blow on Noah's hot food, tell him to blow on it and warn him it's still hot, he still eats it and cries that it's hot. Here's a pic of us practicing.

Obviously, we're a little low on exciting goings-on in the Nanney household.

MARCH

2009-03-11T13:30:00.005-06:00

For some reason lately, Noah finds enjoyment when he marches really quickly and I say march, march, march, march. Whatever works, right. Please excuse his outfit!

TJ MAXX

2009-03-04T18:56:00.003-06:00

That last time we went to TJ Maxx, Noah got very upset at the new system that tells you what lane is open. It's a loud woman's voice telling you what lane to go to expediting the check-out process. I think it freaks Noah out that this loud voice doesn't seem to be coming from a person. He even gets upset when he hears walkie talkies at Target. We drove by TJ Maxx one day and he started crying. A mama needs her discounts.

PARTY FAVORS

2009-02-24T14:25:00.004-06:00

Noah got these sunglasses as a party favor at friend's birthday party. I think they work!

BOOGEY

2009-02-16T13:16:00.004-06:00

Just something funny . . . shortly after I put Noah to bed last night, he started crying. Usually this means he's gotten his leg stuck in the crib slats or threw his lamb out of bed. I went in and didn't immediately see anything wrong. I turned on the light, and he handed me something . . . a decent-sized booger. Apparently, this upset him. Ah, kids.

WASH YOUR BODY - YEAH!

2009-02-12T07:51:00.004-06:00

I sing to Noah all the time for about anything we do. When I bathe him, I sing a song about washing his body set to a Backstreet Boys' song. The other day, Noah grabbed his empty shampoo bottle and started washing his body and whined until I sang the song to accompany him. Here you go - enjoy the vocals too!

And this next video is actually our first take. I wasn't going to post it since Ryan and I start laughing and the vocal track goes a little off key, but I love Buggy's reaction. She's so unimpressed by all of it and even offers a yawn. Awe, she's sweet.

THANKS HELLERMANS

2009-02-04T16:12:00.004-06:00

We visited with the Hellerman family recently to catch up, eat and play. Thank you guys for having us over. The meal was wonderful, and it was so nice to visit.

Noah had a great time playing with new toys, a dog that actually liked him and sitting at his own table with Nate.

Tee ball anyone?

Father/son moment. Too cute.

Watching Nate maneuver the playground.

Hey, this dog likes me.

Noah was not shy about sharing Chris' soda.

ICE DAYS

2009-01-29T14:31:00.003-06:00

We've had some treacherous weather recently: ice. We all survived and stayed inside. Plus, we were all a little under the weather, so we weren't going anywhere anyway. Noah and I are usually out and about at least once a day, if not more, so he found these days a little unorthodox. I did brave one morning to make a trip to Starbucks and pick up some logs for the fireplace. I knew if I had to be cooped up, I wanted to make it worth my while.

Ready to get the fire started.

Mama, this way. It's cold.

Curious George, would you like some Chex?

Bored by mid-morning on the first day of two.

POTTY TRAINING

2009-01-21T13:47:00.007-06:00

Let the games begin . . . we've been planting the potty-training seed for some time now and thought it was time to pull the trigger. We have the toddler toilet seat, pull ups, Elmo underwear and potty progress chart complete with stickers.

Noah sat on the toilet three times on Monday and hasn't been on it since. Oh well - he's a little skiddish about it now and usually has hesitations or butterflys when change is a comin'. We'll try again in a few days. Here are a few highlights of the first day.

As you can see, no stickers . . . yet!

He's very excited at the prospect of wearing underwear.

He's been carrying them around for two days.

First time on the toilet - what a ham!

Noah found a corner in the kitchen to play with his underwear.

WARM, WINTER DAYS

2009-01-19T14:10:00.004-06:00

We've had a volatile winter this year: 70s to 80s one day and 30s the next. This weekend was a perfect 72 degrees and sun, so we headed to the park along with the rest of the city.

Oh, and right after our fun in the sun, Noah smoked both Ryan and I in our faces because he didn't want to leave the park. Um, yeah. We'll chalk that one up to a discipline loss since we forgot to give him ample warning that we were leaving, but normally he does not get away with that behavior. Oh, the workings of a two-year-old.

Noah ready to make his move around Ryan.

I have to thank my husband for this awesome pic. Apparently, my hernia acts up when I push Noah on the swings.

Look at that blue sky!

Getting ready for the slide.

Noah loves the slides. I had to contain him for a sec to get a pic.

TROUBLE STRIKES AGAIN

2009-01-19T14:04:00.004-06:00

Just wanted a moment to myself, and this is what I found after taking a shower. Seriously, I've never seen him dump all the trash out. Usually I find our toiletries or some toys thrown away, but not our trash spewn across the floor.

Notice his dirty, little hand still holding a used Q-tip.

WITH OR WITHOUT

2009-01-12T15:48:00.002-06:00

What happens when you take away work and school for a week in Ryan's world?

A mustache!

Honey, you look cute with or without it, but I prefer the baby-soft feel. Thanks for letting me post this.

MY FUTURE'S SO BRIGHT . . .

2009-01-08T15:37:00.003-06:00

. . . I gotta wear shades (and flash cheesy smiles).

EXTREME MAKEOVER

2009-01-06T17:35:00.006-06:00

This is the first house for Ryan and me, and let's just say we learn more about home ownership every day. We found out the previous owners covered up some water damage in the master bath. We didn't just find this out, but we recently got to find out how bad the problem is.

Thankfully Ryan's dad was able to help us out majorly (this is not covered by insurance). He demoed and started building back the walls. We also killed a family of roaches living in the walls, which were still damp after two months of the shower not being used. It's not finished yet, but we're on our way to a very water-proof shower.

Getting ready for the demo.

Ryan "demoing."

After the frame came down, you could already see some rotting.

Close-up of one of three damaged areas.

Close-up of more rotted wood.

Noah wanted to be in the middle of it all.

No more shower.

I had no idea it would look this way.

Noah giving Granddad his two cents.

Is it level yet?

Noah pitching in.

DIEGO

2009-01-02T20:52:00.003-06:00

Noah received a Diego explorer belt from one of my aunt and uncles, and he sure enjoys playing with it. There's one thing he does though that's peculiar - he lays back on the couch, but only with the belt on. Go figure. Don't mind the open-chest pajama look.

CHRISTMAS MORN

2008-12-26T13:22:00.005-06:00

Noah was more into Christmas this year than the two previous. I think he liked getting presents, but mostly because he enjoyed tearing the wrapping paper off. Next year will probably begin the recognition and desire of particular toys.

The candle-lit Christmas Eve service. The church was completely black, but since there were thousands of people attending, the church glowed. It was beautiful.

Can never have too many books.

Not interested in what Mama's showing me - just the big present.

Hey Daddy, look at this big present I have!

Ooh, it's mine, it's mine!

Bye-bye, off to see the grandparents.

UH OH

2008-12-25T13:43:00.003-06:00

Looks like Santa forgot one of his reindeer while visiting Noah last night. Good thing it wasn't Rudolph.

GONNA FIND OUT . . .

2008-12-22T15:41:00.003-06:00

. . . who's naughty and nice. Santa Claus is coming to town! Merry Christmas, everyone, from Ryan, Elisha and Noah.

CHRISTMAS PARTY

2008-12-22T15:32:00.007-06:00

Ryan and I headed out to my company's Christmas party the other night. We took a horse-drawn carriage to look at Christmas lights. One house had larger than life-sized sculptures of their family's heads in jack-in-the-boxes. Creepy or cool - you decide.

This is the one pic that turned out. There were 6 to 8 of these jack-in-the boxes in the front yard. I still haven't decided if this is the coolest thing ever or just weirdness.

Tried to get a decent shot of us semi-dressed up.

ALL I WANT FOR CHRISTMAS . . .

2008-12-14T13:03:00.004-06:00

. . . is my two front teeth back! Noah chipped both his front teeth this weekend. He has a smaller chip out of another tooth, so that is a total of three chipped teeth by two years old. Ugh!

Even earlier in the week, he was running to get around me, tripped over my foot and went head first into a door. He actually had a dent in his forehead. After some ice and arnica, he looked good as new.

Then yesterday, same thing - running to get around me, tripped over my foot and superman dove onto the floor face first. This time, he's not looking good as new, nor will he for the next three to five years or until those teeth fall out. So far he's not showing any discomfort, but we continue to monitor him.

I can only hope and pray that his permanent teeth will be more resilient, but if we look to uncle Adam, that's not looking too promising. Here's to finding a good dentist!

JUST FOR FUN - AGAIN!

2008-12-09T17:54:00.001-06:00

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

MERRY CHRISTMAS - ENJOY

2008-12-06T15:43:00.001-06:00

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

WAKEY, WAKEY

2008-12-06T08:07:00.003-06:00

I woke up to David Hasselhoff in Noah's bed this morning. I have no idea why he tried to undo his pajamas or how long he slept like this, but he did wake up a little earlier than usual - perhaps from the draft.

Is this a good look for me?

THANKSGIVING WEEKEND

2008-11-30T20:54:00.005-06:00

It's amazing how a few days off of work can get you used to not working - like going back to work on Monday morning is foreign after two days off. I love this holiday season for so many reasons, and I'm very grateful that Christmas is still ahead of us. Meaning, I'm enjoying the three of us hanging out and doing family events. I guess that's what's make these kinds of days so special - there are so few of them. Anyhoo, here's our Thanksgiving weekend in a nutshell of pictures.

Visiting a nearby town's Christmas decorations. That's a big tree!

Is it me, or does it look like he's singing to this nutcracker?

What's a nice Thanksgiving day without a trip to a park?

Look at that timing!

Noah trying out the big-boy swing.

Thanksgiving Day. Noah's meal: juice and . . .

. . . crackers. He didn't feel like partaking in the feast. Maybe next year. Texas went on to belittle A&M!

A town's holiday festival complete with petting zoo. It rained only from the time we stepped out of the car to the time we left. Ugh!

Noah loves animals. Can't figure out why!?

He even stood in a fire truck. Very cool!

Not much of a pic, but his first time (this year) seeing our Christmas tree all decked out.

CHRISTMAS SPIRIT

2008-11-23T14:01:00.004-06:00

We wanted to take Noah to see one of the largest Christmas trees in the area at the Galleria. The place is so beautiful all decked out. I even called ahead to make sure the tree is already up.

The tree's so big, it won't even fit into the shot.

Noah enjoying the view.

Daddy joined in.

My one shot with Noah that turned out.
I'm supervising his door opening and closing fascination.

NEW TOY

2008-11-19T20:55:00.005-06:00

After taking pics of Noah trick-or-treating and half of them not turning out, we thought it was time for a new camera. The old one had been dropped a few times and the zoom wasn't working. My how camera technology has changed in five years.

I took pics of our roses - their last bloom of the season - with the new camera. I love it already. Here's to another five years of exorbitant picture-taking.

I love the short depth of field.

A little PICNIK magic.

Should have pruned this one first.

Ah, nice touches. I love editing pics.

NEW STADIUM

2008-11-18T16:42:00.002-06:00

Ryan and I drove past the new Cowboy's Stadium recently. We hadn't seen it up close in a while. First of all, it's so large, you can see it 20-25 miles away. I'm sure Jerry Jones had it built on a hill for all of North Texas to ogle. The thing is simply ginormous. It looks like we're preparing to host the Olympics. Thought you might want to see it.

LIKE MY BIKE

2008-11-14T10:48:00.004-06:00

Not much to update lately. Noah still looks around the neighborhood for pumpkins. I try to tell him Halloween is over, but now we can look forward to Christmas trees, which he points out on TV and at Target.

Hopefully the neighborhood will start decorating soon. I'm one of those who doesn't mind early Christmas music and decor - 'tis the season! But Ryan and I don't decorate the house because we have the potential to be those people who leave their lights up for six months.

Again with the faux headset . . .

. . . and Mr. Potato Head's glasses.

And a shiny, new bike from G'pa Rick & G'ma Donna!

HE'S BAAAACK

2008-11-05T16:40:00.003-06:00

It was a nice night out last night so I had the front door open, and Buggy, the ultimate lazy dog she is, laid in front of the door catching the breeze and scoping out the neighborhood happenings.

All of a sudden, we hear her going crazy at the door - barking and scratching - so Ryan and I jumped up and ran to the door to see what made her become psycho dog. I immediately thought it was a cat - they're always lingering around the neighborhood and pooping on our doorstep. Nope, it wasn't a cat. It was a LIVE armadillo - no way!

It had been gone for months. I noticed our landscaping was rustled through again recently, so I assumed our beloved armadillo couldn't stay away. I had seen several around the area as road kill and was reluctantly hoping it was our armadillo. We either have great garden grubs or that armadillo just won't die, or I mean, go away and bother a new home.

I frantically grabbed my camera, and this was all I got. I forgot to turn the flash off. I promise you it's there, you just can't see it.

The ghost of armadillo present.

TRICKS OR TREATS

2008-11-01T07:36:00.005-06:00

Last night was Noah's third Halloween already! The first year, he was a pumpkin, second year a monkey and this year, if you haven't guessed it already, Elmo. Surprisingly, we didn't see any other Elmos in the neighborhood.

Noah was so good through the whole trick-or-treating experience. He knew the objective. It's almost as if he remembered it from last year, and this year he was intent on participating on his own instead of us carrying him from door to door. He took one piece of candy at each house then also handed out candy at our house by putting it in the kids' buckets. We had so much fun with him.

Ready, set, go!

Elmo's closeup.

He was always in motion - many of our pics turned out like this.

Still on the move.

Venkman and Elmo.

Plain ol' Mama and Elmo.

LET'S PARTY!

2008-10-29T16:04:00.006-06:00

We had Noah's birthday party this past weekend with family. My dad and stepmom flew into town, and were a great help. Thank you! We did a light Elmo theme - plates, cups, napkins, cake and a few Elmo gifts. I thought it all went well - hopefully everyone had a nice time. Can you guess what Noah's going to be for Halloween?

The night before, Noah received Elmo slippers!

Please, please can I open presents yet?

Warm jammies from uncle Adam!

Can't forget the Elmo bathtub toys. Thanks aunt Bonnie.

Ooh, I love to tear things!

Ryan & I bought this for Noah. I couldn't get it over his noggin, so I took it back for a larger size. That didn't fit his head either. We opted for an Elmo dish set instead.

I thought the cake turned out so cute.

Please stop with the attention and give me my cake!

Wait, we have to sing Happy Birthday still.

He actually didn't get much dirtier than this!

GREAT PUMPKIN PATCH

2008-10-23T17:18:00.005-06:00

We took Noah to his first pumpkin patch last weekend. Previously, he'd been pointing out pumpkins everywhere. He seemed to have a good time, but mostly enjoyed the hayride. We thought that by skipping church and going on a Sunday morning, we'd avoid any crowds. We were very wrong. The place was packed - I guess everyone had the same idea. There was room for everyone though. We actually didn't spend a dime - the patch was free. Pumpkins were for sale, but an average size one was $15 more than the ones at the grocery store. We opted for the store!

A little moody at first.

Enjoying the hayride.

Hey Donkey. I produce Entourage. Say hi to your mother for me.

The house o' pumpkins.

Daddy needs a break.

See Ryan?

Our best attempt at getting Noah near the cutout.

Family photo opp at the end of our pumpkin journey.

Hayrides and wagon rides - it doesn't get much better than that.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY NOAH

2008-10-19T13:38:00.013-06:00

Our baby recently celebrated his second birthday. Happy birthday, Noah! You're such a sweet, funny, mischievous, smart, entertaining little boy. You most certainly keep our world interesting, and we love you to pieces. I still can't stop kissing your cheeks. I'm so thankful they still remind me of your baby face. You're quickly leaving the baby stage behind and bringing us into whole new territory. Good luck to all of us!

Every day is a new adventure in raising a toddler, who's officially in the terrible twos. I'd like to say Noah doesn't take part in that, but I can't. However, there are just as many good times as not so good times though, and we love it!

Here are some pictures of his birthday. We'll have more to share when we have a good ol' fashion birthday party.

We met Daddy for lunch.

Noah didn't want his special Sprinkles birthday cupcake.
What a surprise!

Opened presents.
Apparently, Noah likes to pose with his presents...

...and sit on them.

He got a shiny, new laptop. Thanks Mimi and Granddad.

Uh, oh - noticing Mickey Mouse now. Look out Disney World.

He also got a shiny, new harmonica. Thanks Nana and Papa.

And what does any kid do? Play with the packaging.

Our baby on his first birthday.

Our baby on his second birthday.

Mama spinning in circles to get Noah to smile for the picture. Daddy too trigger happy to wait for the right moment.

Taking pics in front of neighbors' homes. Noah likes the pumpkins. (Ryan calls this his McCain pose. Notice the stiff shoulders. Ah, that's funny!)

Ending his 2nd birthday in the wagon G'pa and G'ma got him.

BAKING BLUNDER

2008-10-16T19:55:00.003-06:00

Several months ago I heard about a terrific chocolate cake recipe on the Today Show that was supposed to be decadent, moist and from scratch. I found the recipe and saved it thinking I'd make it for Noah's birthday party.

I decided to make the cake as a trial run for Noah's b-day party next weekend. I was very excited - I've never made a cake from scratch. Everything was going smoothly except one of the layers was thicker than the other so it took longer in the oven. I checked it every 3 minutes for a half hour until it finished (2 hours total mixing and baking time). As soon as I put it on the cooling rack, the rack slipped sending the cake flying topside down, right onto Buggy's food!

I stood in disbelief then let out a loud shriek. Ryan came running in and gave a poor-you laugh. It still erks me that I did that. At least one layer was salvaged. And yes, it was very yummy! We had it mostly eaten before I decided not to attempt the frosting. I guess I'll try it again for Ryan's birthday. I think for Noah's birthday, we'll try an Elmo cake from the bakery instead.

The aftermath: this was all that was salvaged after the cleanup. If you see a light brown spec there, it's Buggy's food. We had to throw the entire half away since it landed in her blasted food.

TESTING, TESTING 1, 2, 3

2008-10-10T14:20:00.003-06:00

Noah found a prop I used for Halloween one year.

I was a frantic business woman. I even had lipstick on my teeth.

THE EYES OF TEXAS ARE UPON YOU

2008-10-01T07:51:00.000-06:00

The last time we were in Austin, we forgot the camera, so this visit we made up for it. We went to Darrell K Royal Memorial Stadium and actually made it onto the field. That's what happens when you don't ask permission and the gates are open. Oops. It was a big highlight for us though.

Hook 'em!

Noah standing on the "O" in Longhorns.

Family photo opp taken by some Indianapolis trespassers.

Noah vs. the UT Tower.

Noah very ready to go home.

CONGRATS SHAMA & HOPE

2008-09-29T12:13:00.003-06:00

Ryan, Noah and I headed to Austin again for Shama and Hope's wedding at The Driskill Hotel. It was one of the most beautiful weddings we have been to. It was quite the adventure taking a two-year-old, but we managed. Noah made it one to two minutes into the ceremony. He was quickly escorted out after belching followed by a hearty chuckle. That's my boy! Thankfully, not many people we asked heard him. We didn't take too many wedding pics since we had our hands full, but we managed to get plenty of Noah - we couldn't resist with him all dressed up. What a cutie!

All dressed up (and playing with doors!) before heading out.

Daddy trying to get Noah to take a pic. No such luck.

Mama fared a bit better.

Thanks Shannon for taking a family pic.

Noah being extremely well behaved BEFORE the ceremony began. Thank you Newman's Own Organic Raisins.

I started to get nervous that his good behavior peaked too early.

The Newlyweds!

Noah trying the mustard dip.

PICK A WINNER

2008-09-25T13:19:00.001-06:00

As I mentioned in my last post, Noah doesn't sit still very long. He did the other evening, however, for us to enjoy him picking his nose. What a sweet boy! The photographic effects add a nice touch to this moment.

GRANDPARENTS

2008-09-25T13:09:00.002-06:00

I know my September postings have been lacking, but I've had a few good reasons. We've had grandparents visit, then I forgot to have them upload their pics to our computer - and that's about it.

Anyhoo, I really don't have any good reasons for not posting. Noah doesn't sit still long enough to get a good shot and the camera has a delay. Mix those two together and you don't have as many pics during the toddler times.

First Ryan's parents visited for a few days while Ryan and I headed to San Antonio for a weekend by ourselves. We brought back Noah a guitar, which he loved - maybe some natural abilities?!

Then my mom and Ron visited for a few days. They had fun taking him on wagon rides.

TRIP TO AUSTIN

2008-09-03T08:24:00.002-06:00

We had a short overnight trip to Austin so Ryan could participate in his fantasy football draft. Noah and I decided to tag along for a change of scenery. We forgot the camera when we went down to the UT campus, but I did manage to snap shots of what kept Noah occupied for hours in our hotel room. He got into everything. I was surprised, the room was almost baby proof until he found the knives in the kitchenette. Oops.

PS: these pics are boring, but in case any of you forgot or don't know what toddlers do to occupy themselves, this is it - or at least what Noah does.

The dishwasher.

The kitchen cabinet and garbage.

The menu, which was torn up by the next day, among any other solicitations.

Climbing on and off the couch.

Opening and closing all doors, hundreds of times.

Checking out the closet, which became his bedroom that night.

Can't forget the vents.

And the infamous knife drawer. We avoided any bad scenarios here.

RADIO FLYER: PART 2

2008-09-02T08:51:00.000-06:00

Noah has been enjoying his wagon. We've taken several walks even in the awful heat. He kept playing with the box though, so I decided to cut a door into it. Noah loved it! We call it his house, and he can occupy himself for at least a half hour at a time. What a nice treat!

He always get frustrated with new things. Check out those abs!

Hmm, how many times can I open and close this thing?

Wait, this is smaller than my closet.

Approved - I love it, Mama!

RADIO FLYER

2008-08-18T07:28:00.001-06:00

Noah received an early birthday gift from G'pa Rick and G'ma Donna - a radio flyer! This isn't just any wagon. No sir. It features 4 cup holders, 3 positions and a canopy. Ryan and I were very excited to try this out. We didn't install the canopy this ride since it was cloudy.

We showed the neighbors Noah's new ride.
He showed them his new shyness.

Daddy also lovin' the new toy.

Buddy, those are cupholders, not a footrest. Whatev!

Mama going fast and Noah enjoying the speed.

I will not smile at the camera
no matter how many times you say my name.

WATER GARDENS

2008-08-05T08:38:00.005-06:00

We're obviously tired of all the heat here and try to find ways to entertain ourselves without melting. The other day, we were out the door by 8:30 a.m. to visit the Water Gardens. It's a beautiful urban park of, well, water. I believe we were home within an hour of our visit and already sweating. But we did it - we found something to do outside that we'd never done before.

Looking into the large waterfalls.

Photo opp, different view of the waterfalls.

Yes, you can walk down into the waterfalls, but we quickly turned around. One slip could spell disaster hanging on to a little one.

The walls surrounding this pool were waterfalls. We left this area quickly because it smelled of urine. What you don't see in our pics are the homeless people that hang out here.

Aerated waterfalls.

Family photo opp.