Studio 111

Fall Fashion

2010-09-29T15:09:00.004-04:00

I really want a striped shirt for the fall/winter. This one would do if I couldn't find anything I like better. It's not exactly what I want, but my maternity options are limited. I also really want some skinny jeans, but at $70 a pair I may have to pass. If they weren't maternity, I would probably get them. And the shoes? Well, I love them. Of course I do, they are on the Gap models but aren't on the site or Piperlime.

Everything from Gap - of course.

28 Weeks

2010-09-28T13:37:00.003-04:00

and....

We're Back

2010-09-22T11:51:00.005-04:00

We got back Saturday from a week long vacation in Disney World. It was amazing and exhausting. More pics and stories to follow. I'm still trying to unpack and catch up at work.

First Day

2010-09-10T11:20:00.006-04:00

Chase started Pre School this week. He is going to the same facility where he's been since he was 4 months old, but he's officially in a pre school class. I may be biased but I think he's the smartest, cutest kid in his class.

I feel like my baby is growing up too fast. Why can't he stay small forever? When I ask him, he says it's because he wants to be a "big boy" and that he's "already "free" years old"... Tear.

If I weren't pregnant, I would be experiencing some major baby fever. I need to remember to soak up every second I have with the new baby (and Chase) before they are both too busy or big to want to spend time with their Mom. Cleaning can wait, my boys need me now!

I Turned 30! Part 2 Of Where I've Been....

2010-08-31T13:05:00.008-04:00

I turned 30th on August 5th. My husband, being the amazing man he is, bought my BFF a plane ticket to come celebrate with me. Our time together was much too short - as it always is - but I was so happy I got to spend my 30th birthday with her. She flew in the morning of my birthday and we spent the day at the salon with her NJ competition. After that, we went to dinner with Rob's parents. I wanted Chase to come with us, so I picked a restaurant that was family friendly, but still has amazing food. The next day we headed down the shore. It was so hot! Like really, really hot. I think I almost passed out on the beach. The next afternoon she left to go back to GA. We were able to fit in a few hours of shopping before her flight left.
Dani- I miss you! Come visit again soon!!! Chase misses you too.

Danielle and Chase. Isn't she pretty?

Danielle and I before my dinner.

Birthday Dinner. Rob, me, Rob's dad, Rob's mom, Danielle and Chase.

Rob's dad.

Rob and I.

Danielle and Chase after dinner.

Down the shore. Chase obviously was forced to take this picture. He looks like he's standing at attention!

Thinking About...

2010-08-26T13:35:00.005-04:00

cutting my hair!! I LOVE a good pixie cut and I'm getting tired of longish hair. My goal was to grow it long enough to wear a ponytail for Disney in two weeks - I accomplished my goal. As a reward, I may cut it short again when we get back. What do you think? I know it takes a special kind of girl to pull it off and I think I could be that girl. :)

Ginnifer Goodwin is my inspiration. So cute!

Getting Ready...

2010-08-25T09:06:00.005-04:00

I'm 23 weeks pregnant today. In 3 months my maternity leave will start - I can't wait!!! My plan is to be out until April and come back to work part time until Chase starts Kindergarten. To say I'm stressed is an understatement. I'm not really sure how to express how I feel about having two kids - a combination of shear joy and gut wrenching fear. I know I can handle the physical and psychological demands of having two kids, but the financial part of it scares the crap out of me. I know I need to trust that the Lord has a plan for us and our finances - He will provide everything we need. TRUST and FAITH... I may have to write it on post-it notes all over my house so I don't forget.

Guess Who Isn't Allergic to Peanuts?!

2010-08-24T19:13:00.005-04:00

CHASE!!

Thank God!!

His first peanut butter cup experience.

mmmmmmmmmm!

Where I've Been.... Busy (Part 1)

2010-08-11T10:59:00.018-04:00

Time flies in the summer! Maybe more when you have a 3 year old, a full time job, a husband and are pregnant! I can't believe how long it's been since I blogged. What is wrong with me?! I know, exhaustion... :)
So this is what I've been up to....
Over the 4th of July my SIL and nephew came to visit. We had a very busy few days together.

Gabe is the mini me version of my brother. I love him so much! I was so glad we got to spend time with him. He was an angel the entire visit... I miss him.

Chase and all of his cousins. Every one of them. Gabe is his only cousin on my side of the family. Angelica, Madison, Rylee and Scott are Rob's sister's kids. Angelica is 15 going on 25.

We did fireworks in our backyard instead of driving to see them. Chase was scared of the big ones, but did great with the sparklers. Yeah, we are the worlds best parents letting our child hold fire.

We went to this tiny zoo in DE. It was like looking at animals on the sun - I think it must have been 110 degrees that day.

We also made a trip into Philly to the Please Touch Museum. Chase loved it!! He asked when we could go again.

I think Gabe liked it too!!

My brother, Mary Jane and Gabe are going to visit again after Baby T is born. I can't wait to see them all. I miss my brother alot.

Part 2 coming later today or tomorrow.

I Live with Two Dorks!

2010-06-29T15:49:00.001-04:00

Proof...

Who knew...

2010-06-29T14:48:00.003-04:00

Jasper from Twilight was this H-O-T?! I sure as heck didn't until I saw this picture in People Magazine. Then my BFF - who, by the way, saw Eclipse lastnight at a special screening (ho) - told me she is now "team Jasper"... I may be switching teams too.

You know your kid is a redheck when....

2010-06-25T13:01:00.004-04:00

he is passed out wearing camo shorts and no shirt.

Look how cute he is! I love him! Gabe, hurry up and get here!
One week and counting.

My Love..

2010-06-22T13:03:00.011-04:00

I had an ultrasound a few weeks ago for the triple screen (or whatever they call it now). We didn't do the screening with Chase because if the baby did have Down Syndrome or any other birth defect, it would not have changed our minds about wanting him. This time, we decided to have the screening just for the 12 week ultrasound! With Chase, I had ultrasounds every week for 8 weeks so I got to see plenty of him. This time, I would have only gotten one at 20 weeks and I couldn't wait that long to see my new Love. Everything looks great! I was 12 weeks to the day when we had the ultrasound and the baby measured exactly 12 weeks! We will have another ultrasound at 20 weeks where we will find out the sex. We didn't find out the sex with Chase, but want to this time. I think it will make it easier for Chase to know if he's having a brother or sister before the baby gets here. Also, if it's a girl, we can get rid of the bags and bags of boy clothes we have.
I have found myself getting more and more excited to have another baby. Not that I wasn't excited to begin with, but there was also shock, nausea...did I mention shock? Financial concern, childcare worries, exhaustion. I still have alot of these "issues" but I'm getting over them. A new baby is too great of a blessing to worry about all the small (or big) "issues" that I have. Everything will work out. I have faith and trust that God has a plan for us.

My New Car?

2010-06-16T13:19:00.003-04:00

Ha! I wish... If I could afford this car, I sure as helz would not be sitting at this darn desk doing this boring job!!

Swagger Wagon

2010-06-14T12:19:00.007-04:00

Have you seen these commercials on You Tube?!?! I saw the Swagger Wagon rap video commercial this weekend and peed my pants. At first, I didn't think it was real. I guess Toyota has to step up their advertising so people start buying their death mobiles again. The commercials series almost makes me want to buy a Sienna... Almost.

Summer Essentials - Pregnant Girl Edition

2010-06-10T15:13:00.008-04:00

White T's. I can never have enough! I have this "problem" with faded black and dingy white clothes. I think I buy atleast 5 white T's through the summer.

Gray comfy shorts. I wear them pretty much everyday after work. I could live in them.

Havaiana's. I have a gray pair (surprise, surprise) but I plan to get a black pair next week. They are the BEST flip flops ever.

Gray tanks. I wear them under shirts or on their own. I can't have enough!!

Jean shorts. Ladies, these should ONLY be worn by you. Not your husbands or sons or really any man in our life. Jean shorts are for WOMEN/GIRLS ONLY!!!!!!!!!

I went through a phase where I thought this rule applied to me, but I'm over it now. Jean shorts are back. I may even have to rock a cut off pair circa 1990. Maybe not.

Guess Who is Coming to Visit??!!

2010-06-09T11:52:00.004-04:00

Him:

and Her:

Sadly, I don't have a picture of my BFF - Danielle. I will be sure to take some while she's in town for my 30th birthday in August!!

Missing...

2010-06-07T09:08:00.003-04:00

Gabe-

I miss you so much!!! I hope I get to see you soon. Enjoy your summer with your Mommy(teachers have the best schedule)! :)

Merry Christmas!

2010-06-04T14:57:00.002-04:00

Christmas?!?!?!
Yes, Christmas.
The Christmas season always makes me think about the blessings in my life. My son. My husband. The birth of my Savior. My family. My friends.
The blessings of this Christmas are going to be more than I can imagine. The blessing of a new baby. A new little person to add to our family of 3. I will become a mother again and Rob a father. Chase will become a big brother. This makes me smile and thank God for all he has done and will do for us this year.

** This is the reason I have not blogged in so long. The nausea and fatigue really hit me hard. I'm finally starting to feel "normal" again.

Where have I been?

2010-05-19T14:46:00.003-04:00

I don't know, but I will be back soon.
Things are crazy these days.

I was working on getting a new blog header from the lovely Amber, but for reasons I will explain later, my little blog has fallen by the wayside.

I miss you. Be back soon. Promise.

Chase's 3rd Birthday Party

2010-05-04T15:42:00.007-04:00

The weather was perfect for an outside party - Thank God. April is usually rainy so we were worried about planning something outside. Everything turned out perfect and we all had a great time.

Philly Soft Pretzels shaped like the number 3! They were delish. If you come to Philly, you have to try a pretzel.... They are only good in Philly. Don't let the commercials for the frozen ones fool you - they are not as good as the original.

Decorations.

Daddy, Mommy and Chase.

Cupcake Bar. This was a great idea - in theory. A great idea for the kids, not such a good idea for the parents who had to help their kids make the cupcakes.

Chase was very serious while decorating his cupcake.

Singing Happy Birthday. He loved it! He sang to himself!

The End.

A New Tee and Chase's First Phils Game

2010-04-30T12:49:00.008-04:00

I ordered a new Phils T for the game tomorrow. I've wanted a T from Birdland for a while, but never got around to ordering one. I have to say, I'm glad I finally did. I love it!! Check out their site for great Phils gear.
Tomorrow's game is Chase's first. I am so excited! I know he's going to love it. I told him this morning he is going to see Ryan Howard in real life - I may have been leading him on a little, but I find in unlikely that he will be disappointed.

Westsiiiiide....

2010-04-26T08:52:00.004-04:00

Chase isn't really throwing up gang signs... :)
His party was a success! He had an awesome time! Details later.

Party Time!!

2010-04-20T10:42:00.008-04:00

Chase's birthday party is Saturday at the park across the street from our house. We are so excited! Amber from Amber's Announcing You Etsy Shop designed the invitations, matching poster (above) and stickers for the gift bags. I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE them all! My plan is to decorate in green, blue and orange - no brown since there is already so much brown in the pavilion where the party will be held. We are going to have a cup cake "bar" where the kids can make their own cupcakes and a candy/gift table! Oh, we also got a Monster Truck pinata! :)

Since I'm still blogger illiterate, here is the link to Amber's shop. I really need to learn how to make her name the link. http://www.etsy.com/shop/announcingyou?ga_search_query=invitation&ga_search_type=handmade&ga_page=4&includes%5B0%5D=tags&includes%5B1%5D=title

I'm Growing Out My Hair... But...

2010-04-15T15:20:00.002-04:00

I sure do love Heidi's new cut.

He's 3!?!?!?

2010-04-13T08:15:00.010-04:00

When did this happen? When did my little 8lb baby turn 3?! Craziness. The past three years have flown by. Where did the time go? 3 years ago today at 10:16 pm my life changed - my little man was born. It is the happiest day of my life. He is my everything. I love him more than words. He's my angel. Our miracle.

When we were in VA last weekend, my family threw a little party for him.

Chase-

Daddy and I love you so much! We thank God everyday for giving you to us. You are our world. I hope you have a wonderful birthday!!

So Much to Say...

2010-04-12T12:45:00.007-04:00

I feel like I have so much to stay and don't know where to start. So, while I sort through my thoughts, I will leave you with a few photos of my man.

Ryan F. - These 2 are for you...

My boy turns 3 tomorrow so I made him this shirt to wear to school today. I know the pictures aren't that great - I'm sorry. Once we get our new camera I won't be able to stop taking photos. I can't wait!!

8 Years Ago... Where It All Began

2010-04-06T08:56:00.007-04:00

Rob and I were married 8 years ago today in Fabulous Las Vegas Nevada! We were planning a large wedding, but decided Vegas was a better option because of it's affordability. So, four weeks after we were "engaged" we flew out with only his best friend and his girlfriend. I wanted to share some wedding pics, but couldn't find them lastnight in our flooded basement (another post all together) but I will try and eventually post them.

This is the chapel where we were married. It was right out of 1975 - wood paneling and all!

Looking back I sometimes wish we had a large wedding, but then I think about how much I love Rob and know that it isn't the wedding that matters, but the marriage.

Happy Anniversary Rob! I love you! Thank you for being such a wonderful husband and the best dad ever (that's what Chase told me the other night and I agree). Thank you for all you do for us and for loving me long after my prime. ;)

Happy Easter... Monday

2010-04-05T13:11:00.008-04:00

Oops... I meant to post this weekend, but things got crazy!
Friday I was off so Chase and I made it to Good Friday service. It was really nice... with the exception of the Philly traffic on a Friday!
Yesterday was a very nice Easter Sunday! Church was awesome! I kept getting chills. We sang all of my favorite hymns and afterwards had a so, so breakfast at a new restaurant in town. After our naps, we headed over to Rob's sister's house to celebrate with his family.

When Chase saw the table he said "The bunny came..." very calm with no excitement at all. I asked him what was there and all he said was "candy"... Nothing about his monster truck, or his new Phils t or even the book he has been pestering me about for weeks. Eventually, he got excited...

The following pictures are proof that Chase is a descendant of a Redneck family. On my southern side, not Rob's southern New Jersey side.

Clean, happy and blowing bubbles with his cousins.
This is where it starts. No shoes.

No shoes... on a Barbie Quad.

At this point, I looked outside and saw him. I told my mother-in-law that he was "such a redneck"... She thought it was pretty funny knowing my family and all. ;)

No shoes... holding a Walmart bag. Enough said.

Hope you had a wonderful Easter celebrating the Risen King!

Yesterday...

2010-04-01T17:16:00.005-04:00

when I got home from work, Chase and I took a walk to the park across the street from our house. The park is one of the major advantages of living where we do. It's a National Monument so it's is very well maintained and clean. After a LONG, COLD winter, my boy was so excited to be outside. Thank God it's finally spring! I need some Vit D!

Look how happy he is!

We were racing and I wanted to get a picture of him running in the field. It's VERY blurry, but I kinda like it.

He is my sunshine.

Look at those eyes! I love his face.

Chhhhhhhhhheese!!

Chase, we love you so much! Thank you for making everyday so special. You really are the best little boy anyone could ever ask for. I love you!

Stella For Gap...

2010-03-31T08:35:00.003-04:00

I will take one of each please....

and these sneaks.

Party Animals!

2010-03-30T14:01:00.008-04:00

Saturday afternoon we went to a First Birthday Party for our friend's son, Matt. Matt's parents had a petting "zoo" come to the house to entertain the kids for an hour or so. Chase LOVED it! It's amazing how much little kids love animals.

Chase and his friend Ben (Matt's brother). I see trouble in my future. I do love this picture. I plan on adding it to the slide show presentation I've been preparing for Chase's wedding rehearsal dinner. ;)

Chase loved the pony ride. I think he rode 4-5 times.

I love this boy! I can't believe he will be 3 in two weeks!! Where has the time gone? We have big plans for his Monster Truck and Dirty Bike Party. I have the invitations and as soon as they get sent out I will will post them here. They are AWESOME!!

Ben, you are pretty cute too! ;) I love this picture.

He's Back!!

2010-03-24T08:34:00.005-04:00

The Silver Fox is back from his mini vacation to the AZ... While there he visited Frank Lloyd Wright's Taliesin West in Scottsdale. BEAUTIFUL! Taliesin was designed as a home but is also an architecture school that only takes 20-25 students a year - depending on the current enrollment they may not even take that many! This place is amazing! I wish I could have been there to experience it first hand.

Rob brought me home this beautiful "print"... I'm not sure if that is what it's called. It's silver and painted glass. It's stunning! I love it!!

This is the brochure for Taliesin West. The design on the front is perfection. I may have to cut it out and frame it too. :)

Thanks Rob for my gift. I love it!!

Peace Out...

2010-03-18T15:23:00.004-04:00

Rob is leaving for Arizona tonight. I'm sad. Chase and I are going to miss him so much! I have our weekend booked solid so hopefully the next 5 days will fly by. Our big plans involve cleaning out closets and painting stripes on his bedroom wall. Rob needs a break and I know he will enjoy spending time in the sunshine with his sister. Tuesday will be here before we know it!

Happy St. Patrick's Day!!

2010-03-17T10:11:00.005-04:00

Enjoy your holiday! For some reason, it's my favorite. Easter is my second favorite and Christmas my third. I think it stems from when I was younger and could drink for three weeks straight using the celebration of St. Patrick's Day as my explanation. :)

Rock and Roll...

2010-03-15T08:48:00.004-04:00

Here is a small sneak peak at Chase's "big boy" room. I ordered this bedding yesterday at a SUPER reduced price at Land of Nod. It's not the bedding I originally wanted, but it's cute and was SUPER cheap. I'm a little sad thinking about my "baby" moving into a big boy bed, but it's time. He's almost 3 and has pretty much out grown his crib. Tear.

Have you seen this?

2010-03-08T12:52:00.003-05:00

J.Crew is featuring real women. Love it! This necklace - AMAZING!!
I can't believe I lived minutes from the J.Crew outlet for over 2 years and only went a handful of times. What was wrong with me?

Sick... Again.

2010-03-05T16:46:00.004-05:00

Chase is sick... Again. Today we went to the doctor for the second time, got a third prescription, went for a chest x ray and then blood work. Jealous? Isn't that how you want to spend your Friday off? The chest x ray was negative so there is no pneumonia - Thank God! We will get the results of the blood work early next week as well as the strep test results. The worst of it isn't even his cough it's the fever. 104 was the highest and it's been around since Tuesday. My poor baby! I hope he starts feeling better this weekend. I'm thinking of contacting an infection specialist. Aren't there doctors who specialize in infection? I would think so. Chase already sees an ENT and Allergist who's course of action has not worked. Allergy meds everyday, breathing treatments, nose sprays, tonsil removal, adenoid removal, ear tubes - twice, CT scan, numerous chest x rays.... I could go on and on. I want a healthy child. It's not fair to him to be this sick. I'm scared he's going to become immune to the antibiotics because he's on them so often. I'm going to start researching other specialists that we can see. I swear the doctors think I have Munchhausen syndrome.

See you soon...

2010-03-02T14:24:00.005-05:00

How sad is it that the most exciting part of our impending Disney trip is that I get to eat at Earl of Sandwich? Pretty sad, right? I'm so excited!!!! I love the Earl! See you soon E!!
**By soon, I mean September, but I feel like it will be here before I know it.

Revolutionary Road....

2010-02-25T11:57:00.008-05:00

I saw Revolutionary Road a few weeks ago and loved it. It was the type of movie where I went "ew".... "EW"... "EW!!"... then was sad. The acting was phenomenal! Seriously, some of the best acting I've ever watched. I loved the set design. I need the furniture in my house.

I'll take one of each chair, the coffee table and the couch.
I wonder if my house ever had furniture like this in it. It was built in the mid 1950's, so I'm sure it did. I wish they would have left it behind for me. Thank GOD they left the hardwoods - most of them.

Abby's Shower... It was full of LOVE!

2010-02-24T09:21:00.006-05:00

We threw a shower for my friend Abby the Saturday before Valentine's Day. It was supposed to be the week prior but a HUGE snow storm hit that morning. We had so much fun... It was "love"ly and very girly! Abby and Aaron are having a girl in April - Riley - so the heart, pink theme was perfect.

The invitation was courtesy of my favorite etsy vendor - Amber's Announcing You. It's it beautiful. Amber, thanks again for working with me to create the perfect invitation for Abby's special day.

Decorations: I made the banners out of Valentine paper in the $1 section of Target. The puff balls have become a staple at any party in which I am part of the planning. They are super cute, easy to make and affordable.

My pink vintage Pyrex was perfect! I bought the silver desert stand at a yard sale over the summer and hadn't used it yet. I think it worked well to hold the MANY, MANY cupcakes I made.

Mom and Dad....

Opening Gifts...

Seriously, the cutest thing I've EVER seen!!! I need one! I love it! Abby's mother in law made her. She is so talented.

Abby-Thank you for letting me be part of your special day. It was a pleasure helping your mom plan your baby shower. Riley is one lucky little girl to have a Mommy and Daddy as great as you and Aaron. Enjoy every second of her newborn months - they grow fast!

This shhh is B-A-N-A-N-A-S....

2010-02-22T15:08:00.007-05:00

Banana Republic has gone Chino crazy and I love it! Banana is a close second to JCrew for the perfect clothes.

Belly...

2010-02-19T13:41:00.003-05:00

Gabe- You have a big belly! I love it!! I love chunky babies... I love your chunky legs too. If you were a girl, I would not be saying these things to you. I know girls can take things the wrong way - I would if someone told me I had a chunky belly (I do) or chunky legs, but your mom told me you're cool with it.
I love you so much!

I'm Sorry...

2010-02-17T10:39:00.005-05:00

Dear Blog-

I'm so very sorry for neglecting you the past week. I have so much to share and write, but things have been crazy busy! I promise to take better care of you.

Love you,

Christian

Here are a few pictures from the past week... Only 3 because I want to save others for new posts.

When did he turn 15? He got his hair cut Sunday and now looks so much older! I don't like it - He needs to stay little forever.

This is how I found him in the bathroom Saturday. So funny!!

Is this not one of the most adorable things you have EVER seen. My friend's mother in law MADE it for her new baby. It was love at first sight. Abby, please ask your MIL if she can make me one... Blue and choc brown... Please!!

Sick...

2010-02-11T07:19:00.002-05:00

We are sick, sick, sick... And snowed in! I'm going back to bed.

Peace.

Necklace.... From Lynne

2010-02-08T12:39:00.008-05:00

If it's possible for someone to read more magazines than I do, it's my friend Lynne. Because of this talent (it's a talent to read 20+ mags a month with a 3 year old), Lynne is always up to date on the latest fashion trends, jewelry, celebrity hook ups, celebrity break ups, ect. Today, she sent me a link to Sarahchloe.com and I fell in LOVE with this necklace. I would get it with Chase's initials so instead of SRA it would read CTR. The best part is that she sent me the link while still in the hospital from delivering her baby boy. What a friend. Thanks Lynne for sending me the link and congratulations on baby Lucas.

**Please note that Lynne does not read 20+ magazines a month - it just seems like it. ;)

It's Coming.... Again.

2010-02-05T09:33:00.004-05:00

We are in for another HUGE winter storm tonight and tomorrow. This will be the second big storm of the season - our first was right before Christmas. We could get up to 24 inches of snow! I've lived in NJ for 8 years and it's never snowed this much in one season. It's beautiful and fun but at the same time annoying. We had to reschedule my friend's baby shower and now I can't go see my other friends newborn baby. Annoying. Maybe we will take Chase sledding... Or maybe we will just stay home, watch movies, eat snacks and stay warm. At the very least, it will be a weekend spent with Chase and I'm ok with that.

My Silver Fox....

2010-02-04T10:21:00.008-05:00

I love this picture of Rob and Chase (yes, Chase has other shirts, but this one seems to keep popping up in the photos I post of him). Rob is going to AZ in March to visit his sister. I'm excited for him, but not sure what I will do without him for 5 days!! Really, I'm more worried how his stalker (Chase) is going to do with not seeing his Daddy for 5 days. It's amazing how much this kid loves his dad. When Rob is around, I don't exist. I do get jealous, but I thank God everyday that Rob is such a good father and that him and Chase are so close. I hope they always are.

Blog Design Giveaway! I NEED to win...

2010-02-03T13:22:00.004-05:00

One of my favorite blogs is giving away a blog redesign... I NEED to win! I've been thinking about getting my blog fancied up, but can't justify spending the money. I would love to win! Pray for me. If I don't win, I hope you do.

Head over to the Suaviloquy blog to enter. Good luck!

One word....

2010-02-02T13:28:00.001-05:00

FINALLY!!!!

I heart JGK!

2010-02-01T15:04:00.004-05:00

Look at this boy! I can't believe he will be 6 months old on the 9th! Time flies! He looks just like his mommy (my brother doesn't believe me and swears he looks like him... He doesn't).

I love you Gabe! I can't wait to see you in April. Chase and I talk about you alot. I think he's also excited to see you.

I had to put it back...

2010-01-28T13:38:00.011-05:00

I'm not much of a reader. I would much rather read magazines than a book. I am, however, a sucker for Nicholas Sparks. His books are easy reads and are quite entertaining. Today I was killing time on my lunch break at Barns and Noble. My intention was to get the new InStyle but I forgot that Rob had gotten me a subscription for Christmas. So, I started looking at the new fiction section and saw The Last Song by Nicholas Sparks. I picked up - quite excited - finally, something to keep my nights busy when Chase is asleep and American Idol isn't on. What I didn't realize is that apparently The Last Song is about a pop star, with a weird voice, competing in a wet tee shirt contest, on the beach with a local frat boy. I can not be seen (even at home) reading a book with Hannah Montana on the cover. It makes my belly hurt just thinking about her. So, I put the book back, got my Starbucks and left. I hope my Instyle comes this week.

No words, just pictures of my boy from a party last weekend

2010-01-27T16:16:00.003-05:00

Potty Trained... and some GAP pants

2010-01-25T13:50:00.005-05:00

Things have been crazy around my house and work the past week. It was a rough one, but this week is looking better.
Chase is potty trained!!! We are taking him for his present this weekend. He calls it a Batman Castle, but it's really a Bat Cave.

GAP is doing a big khaki promotion for the spring. I love every pair! I wear khakis to work alot but these are so cute I may have to wear them on the weekend too.

How about these shoes!?!?! OMG! I think they deserve their own post. They were on the GAP site, but they aren't GAP shoes. I'm not sure who makes them, but I love them!!

Beef.. A Funny Story

2010-01-19T14:37:00.007-05:00

*Warning* Rob and I seem to be the only ones who think this story is funny, but I still wanted to share it.

Yesterday at the food store this happened in the raw meat isle:

Chase: Barf (throw up noise)

Me (laughing): What was that?

Chase (looking at the raw meat): That gross. It make me sick.

So dramatic. Wonder where he gets that from.

Argyle Socks

2010-01-14T16:07:00.003-05:00

I miss my flats.

It's been FREEZING here so I've been rocking my boots most days. Well, I'm tired of them and I miss my flats. So, I pulled out some argyle socks and threw on my flats for a pretty cute combination. I had on khaki pants and a purple shirt.

Crewcuts

2010-01-12T12:34:00.005-05:00

If you know me, you know that I have a love/hate relationship with JCrew - I L-O-V-E the clothes and hate the price. I remember a few years ago they did a childrens line that was available at the store but it didn't last long. Well, Crewcuts are back and cuter than ever. I adore the boys clothes, but truly LOVE the girls clothes - it's like having a mini me. I want one!

They even sell Wellies for kids. Adorable.

Proof that the girls clothes are absolutely precious! OMG, Rob has to be so thankful we have a boy.

Catching Up...

2010-01-11T14:17:00.009-05:00

Chase had is CAT Scan last week and did well with the procedure. Since he is so little and has to sit completely still, he had to be sedated. First, the nurse gave him meds up his nose which made him loopy. He had the same meds prior to his tonsil, tube and adenoid surgery last year. It's like watching a drunk 2 year old. The nose spray med is so that he will relax enough for the nurses to put in the iv and also so that he can be transported to the CAT Scan room without a scene. Once in the CAT Scan room, they give him more sedation meds in his IV. This part freaked me out. He was totally still but his eyes were open. I told Rob I was a little weirded out and he just looked at me like I had 3 heads. When he came out of the sedation, he did really well - a little too well. He ate and drank too fast and got sick. After that, he wouldn't drink but we were able to leave about an hour after the procedure.

The doctor called with the results the next day and I was told that he currently has a sinus infection. Well, the kid has no signs of an infection! The problem seems to be that he has a constant sinus infection and whenever he catches a cold or his allergies act up he gets a full blown sinus infection. Talk about frustrating! The pediatrician put him on antibiotics - again - he just got off of them 5 days prior. We made an appt with Chase's ENT doctor at DuPont Hospital in DE. He is the same doctor who removed his tonsils, adenoids and placed tubes last year. SO, on the 26th we hope to get some answers. It looks like another surgery will be needed to clean out his sinuses and make the drainage holes bigger. Poor kid! The good news is that everyone I know who has had the surgery is a million times better afterwards. I hope the same will be said for Chase.

{Rob gave him a snack and this is where I found him eating it.}

{After the CAT Scan and a really long nap. I gave him a new monster truck for doing so well at the doctor - he was excited.}

{"Playing" with his new truck.}

{Friday night he asked for another snack and I opened the frig to get him one. I couldn't find what he wanted so he stepped in front of me. Check out those chicken legs!!}

{Love this one. My two favorite things - Chase and food!}

Sunnies...

2010-01-08T13:02:00.003-05:00

These sunglasses are exactly what I want and can't seem to find. My mission this weekend is to find them. Now if I could only have her clothes and body too... :)

Smiles....

2010-01-08T08:58:00.004-05:00

I LOVE this picture of Gabe. He's getting so big!! It makes me sad and happy at the same time. I want to see him soon, but I may have to wait until the Summer. I miss him lots and lots. He's starting to look more like my brother - his daddy - but I do think he looks more like his mommy.

Getting Through... Fleet Foxes

2010-01-07T10:57:00.008-05:00

In economic times like these, I feel like a complete ass for complaining about my job. That being said, I'm barely getting through these days. I've been listening to this album alot at work. It helps me get through the day and blocks out the "noise". It's amazing! If you haven't heard of Fleet Foxes or heard their music, they are totally worth checking out. Maybe it will get you through your next bad day at work.

Pray for us...

2010-01-05T14:38:00.006-05:00

Chase has a CAT Scan in the morning of his sinuses. We are hoping that this will FINALLY help us figure out why this baby is so sick! They have to sedate him for the procedure and I'm a little nervous.
I found this picture today of him from his First Christmas! Look how tiny he is. He's like a mini version of himself now. This picture was actually taken Christmas Eve before bed. In the pictures of him opening his gifts, he has on different PJ's because he was so sick the night before and coughed so hard that he threw up. This was the beginning of our long journey of finding out what is wrong with our baby. He is NEVER healthy. We see specialists all the time and have been able to manage his issues a little better since he turned 2 - the older he gets, the more medication is available to him. I hate medicating, but it's what we have to do to keep him somewhat healthy.

Highway To the Danger Zone?

2010-01-04T10:03:00.005-05:00

If I got these Ray Bans would I then look like....

this???
I don't think so. I'm getting them today!

Resolutuions???

2009-12-31T08:44:00.007-05:00

Since today is New Years Eve, I was thinking about resolutions. I'm not a resolution type of person, but I do like the idea of setting goals for the New Year. Maybe even saying a hopeful prayer for the year ahead. Maybe both. Goals are good. Prayers are good.

Goals:

-lose the last 20 pregnancy pounds. Yes, I have 20 extra pounds left from being pregnant 3 years ago! Sad, I know. I did gain 10 or so pounds prior to actually being pregnant because of medication I had to take. I'm going to start Weight Watchers again next week. It's tough and I STARVE the first week or two, but I lost 12 pounds last year when I did it. Jules, over at Pancakes and French Fries, wrote an excellent post yesterday about starting Weight Watchers again and I was super encouraged.

- spend more quality time with Chase. I work a full time job so life is pretty hectic in the evenings. Weekends are normally packed with errands, cleaning, play dates, ect. so Chase and I don't get as much quality time together as I would like. I don't work because I want to - I work because I have to. If it were up to me, I would quit today. I have to work to provide food, a home and clothing for my son. That's all my job is - a means to provide for my family. Unfortunately, it takes up most of my week.

- find a new job.

- enjoy the next 12 months as a family of 3. I hope to be pregnant next year (God willing) and I want to make sure that I soak up every second of the next year with Rob and Chase.

- pray more.

- shop less and save more!!

- start a bible study and a daily devotional.

- be a better friend. I don't think I'm a bad friend, but I want to be a better friend. My friendships are very important to me and as I get older good friends are few and far between.

- get a new camera and take a photography class. (this may not go with shopping less)

There are a million other goals I could set for myself, but I think this is a good starting point.

Although times are tough, I thank God everyday for my family and friends. I thank Him for my home and food on my table. Bills may get paid late, but atleast we have the means to eventually pay them. Rob works two jobs, but I am thankful that the darn papers can be delivered in the morning before his "real" job.

Thank you Lord for this boy! He's my love....

On a side note, see the bandaid on Chase's arm? There isn't a boo boo there. He wears them as stickers and calls them bug bites. Strange.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!!!!!!!

New Bag...

2009-12-29T08:43:00.003-05:00

After months of searching, I have finally found a new bag. My friend asked me yesterday if buying a new bag was really a "lunch time" decision - I said I had been thinking about and looking at bags for months, therefore it was not a "lunch time" decision. At first, I thought it was a little too big, but the more I use it, the more I like it. In fact, I love it!

B. Mackowsky London Crossbody Satchel

Christmas Morning Continued....

2009-12-28T08:32:00.003-05:00

My boy and me... I look tired!! :) We pushed all of his "old" toys away from the tree so they wouldn't be mixed in with his gifts... What a mess!

Chase and his daddy... This is the "after" picture. Again, what a mess!!

Later that morning Chase and I were watching his new Diego video and I laughed when I realized that we were watching Diego while he was wearing his new Rescue Pack. He wore it everywhere for a good 4 hours. It was the only gift he asked Santa for. He was pretty excited when he opened it.

Christmas Morning

2009-12-28T08:20:00.007-05:00

{My favorite picture!}

Christmas morning was awesome!! I was so worried Chase wasn't getting enough gifts, but I was totally wrong. He said many times "I got so many presents"! He was so excited! Can you tell? Look at that face...

My Second Favorite Boy in the Entire World...

2009-12-22T09:24:00.003-05:00

Look how adorable this boy is! I love him soooooo much! I wish he lived closer so I could see him more often. I miss him. Even if they live 1000 miles away from eachother, I know Chase and Gabe are going to be BCF (Best Cousins Forever)!

Merry Christmas - From The Trautner Family

2009-12-21T09:01:00.003-05:00

I have been waiting to blog my Christmas cards because I wanted to wait until everyone had received them. It's been hard because I love them SO, SO, SO much! Amber, at Amber's Announcing You etsy shop did such an amazing job on the design. Her shop has so much to offer and it took me a while to finally decide on the design I loved. Amber was great to work with and I plan to use her for years to come! Thanks Amber!! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

Without further adieu.....

SNOW!!!!!

2009-12-19T10:56:00.002-05:00

The snow is crazy!! I took these after we got back from the grocery store (which was a zoo!!). We will play more tomorrow when the wind and snow stop. Until then, we are just hanging out together inside. It's kinda nice. :)

Something in the Mail...

2009-12-18T11:07:00.004-05:00

My BFF Danielle and her husband sent Chase a package that arrived yesterday. He was so excited to open it...
Thanks Danielle and Ryan for thinking of Chase at Christmas. We love and miss you both very much. Hopefully we will see you in the spring.

{"a dirt bike Mommy!!!!!"}

He was very excited when he found the dirt bike in the box.

He has this "thing" with looking at the back of toy packages. Is that odd? Do all 2 year olds do that?

Wasn't quite as interested in the shirts as I was! He is wearing one of them today.

The vest is awesome!!! It's a little cold these days to only wear the vest, but it will be used quite alot on warmer winter days and in the early spring.

Thanks again Danielle and Ryan!!

Trimming the Tree

2009-12-18T10:37:00.003-05:00

Look at that concentration!

Thank you SJP...

2009-12-17T09:01:00.002-05:00

for finally putting pants on your son that are the appropriate length.

PS - LOVE your outfit too. :)

Geared Up

2009-12-14T14:00:00.007-05:00

My boy has the Christmas Tree Hunting Essentials.

-coat: check

-gloves: check

-hat: check

-Diego: check

-Diego jeep: check

-juice box (pouch): check

-BB: check

I was looking at this picture and laughing because this is how Chase looked on the way to get our Christmas tree Saturday night. Everything in the picture is very "Chase". He loves his BB (his blanket). I'm not sure where the name BB came from but it's what he has called it for atleast a year and a half. He is addicted to it. Honestly, I don't care. Partly because I like him having a safety blanket and also because I still sleep with my blanket (shhhhhhh). He loves Diego and keeps telling me Santa is going to bring him a Rescue Pack like Diego's. I hope he does! He just started drinking juice. He always asks for "milky" or water - never juice. He has a cold, so I let him drink a little more juice than normal this weekend.

Broken?

2009-12-11T14:11:00.004-05:00

Yesterday I got a call from my mother in law informing that Chase was limping and not walking correctly on his left foot. I told her I would just look at it when I got home - I honestly didn't think anything was wrong. An hour later she called me back saying it had gotten worse and he said it hurt. I called the doctor and left work an hour later. The doctor didn't see anything wrong with it, but his limp was very obvious. We went for x rays - this time I honestly thought it was broken and felt bad for blowing it off earlier in the day. It is not broken - Thank GOD! He has to rest it for a few days and may have to see a specialist if it's not better by Monday. My question is: How do you make a 2.5 year old rest?! It's nearly impossible. I guess he will be watching alot of TV this weekend. To top everything off, he has a cold and a cough.... again! This kid can't win for loosing.

What Rob Found in the Garage...

2009-12-08T09:37:00.004-05:00

I can only imagine what you guys were thinking when I mentioned in my last post that Rob had made the discovery of the YEAR in our garage. Money? I wish! Jewelry? Nope!
He found............................................................. a vintage Little People Sesame Street Townhouse!! It was a MESS, but I cleaned it up and it's good as new. Along with the townhouse, there were a number of vintage Little People as well as the accessories that go with the townhouse. I was sooooo excited! Chase was pretty excited too. I love vintage Little People. They are so much better than the new ones. Chase plays with them at his MiMom's house all the time.
When I asked Rob where he found it and he said the garage, I then asked if he knew it was in there.... He said YES!! I was too excited to be mad, but d@mn Rob if you knew it was in there years ago, why did you just decide to bring it out now? Also, it was HIS when he was little. All the more reason to LOVE it!

Am I crazy to be this excited about a toy? Maybe so, but I don't care. What is the best item you have EVER found in your house? Was it a vintage toy, an old letter (remember that episode of 90210 where Brenda found the letter from the 60's?), vintage appliances or magazines? Do tell.

Leaves

2009-12-07T14:13:00.005-05:00

I forgot to blog these last week. My boy is so cute!! He loved the leaves. This weekend he asked where they all went.
The same day we were raking Rob made the discovery of the YEAR. In our garage. Let's just say, it was the BEST item we have found in that dirty old garage since we moved in. This weekend he found squirrels that he thought were huge mice. Whoa... The other discovery is much better. Pics to follow.... :)

Gabe's First Santa Picture

2009-12-07T08:27:00.004-05:00

I think his belly may be bigger than Santa's! :) I love this picture of him... I can't believe how clear my SIL's iphone pics are - I really need one. Chase had breakfast with Santa Saturday at my father in law's union hall. He came home with his face painted like Batman - pics to follow. He saw Santa there and went right to him. They are supposed to send a picture to us. We are going to take him to a small photo studio for his Santa pictures this week. There is no line and the Santa is the best in town. He has never cried on Santa's lap which is good, BUT I would love one of those "kid freaking out on Santa's lap" pictures. They crack me up. Is that wrong?

Vintage Christmas...

2009-12-04T15:19:00.001-05:00

I ran across this vintage Egg Nog set on Etsy today via thevintagethread. I need them! I don't even like egg nog, but I would make an exception to get these beauties.

She's Crafty.... And She's Just My Style

2009-12-02T13:43:00.003-05:00

Advent Calendar:

Isn't this such a cute idea!?!?! Check out the entire post on This Happy Home.

*On a side note, I forgot to start Chase's advent calendar yesterday! Oops. I guess we will do two tonight.

Too Big

2009-12-01T11:35:00.004-05:00

My baby boy is getting too big!
Lastnight Rob and I we were making his bed and discussing how I want to redo his room in the spring. He still sleeps in his crib and it made me really sad thinking that it will be over soon. My baby will be a big boy, in a big boy bed (and hopefully going on the potty).

He looks like he's having a good conversation with Woody. I wonder what they are talking about. Maybe Buzz.

I love this picture! I think it's a great shot of him and his toys... This kid LOVES his toys! I also like how the light is coming through the curtains.
Speaking of light - Chase's Sunday School teacher told us that he is "a ray of sunlight"! He always participates in the activity and genuinely loves to be there. Talk about making a mom happy! Last week he told Rob and I that his best friend is God. Melt my heart....

Busy Busy

2009-12-01T08:41:00.004-05:00

I have been so busy since we got home from VA - thus the lack of posts. I plan to post the rest of the VA pics this week. Here are a few more taken with my brother Polaroid iphone app. I LOVE it. I need an iphone.

It's funny - When I look through the pics from VA (especially the one above of Chase), it looks like my grandparents home is straight out of 1974. Wait, it is! :) It wouldn't feel like their house if they changed it though.

I miss you sweet Gabe. I hope we get to see each other again soon. Maybe in the spring.

Papa loves babies. He says every home should have atleast one baby at all times. It probably has to do with him being 1 of 10 children!

VA - Part 1

2009-11-27T08:30:00.008-05:00

Thursday night, Friday and Friday night we stayed in Richmond with some college friends. I didn't take ANY pictures!! Bummer because her kids are adorable and Chase had so much fun playing with them.
Sonja, Brandon, Micah and Braden - Thank you so much for letting us stay with you. We miss you guys so much and always have such a nice time when we are all together. I hope we get to see you soon!!
We left Richmond Saturday morning and headed to Lynchburg to see my family. My Nannie and Papa live in Lynchburg and my brother drove up from GA for the weekend. The main reason we were all together was to celebrate my Papa's 80th birthday! I was also there to see my nephew who I hadn't seen since he was born in September (9/9/09).

{Chase in the car - He was so good the entire trip. Thanks buddy!!}

{Chase and his Papa on the lawn mower. My Papa's "thing" is cutting grass. Every grandchild and now great grandchild has ridden on his lawn mowers. I remember it was always the highlight of our family trips to visit Nannie and Papa. The first thing Chase did was run into the backyard and get on the tractor with Papa. He LOVED it!!}

{Gabe and Nannie. I'm not sure how to rotate my picture - ugh!}

Papa's party to follow.

VA in Poloroid Pictures

2009-11-25T09:08:00.004-05:00

We're back! Here is a brief post of some awesome pictures I took with my brother's iphone. Gabe is amazing! I hated to leave him... He is such a good baby and super cute too! We had a nice visit with friends and family but are very glad to be home. We hit hella traffic in DC yesterday driving home. What normally takes around 5 hours took 8! Chase was a trooper though and did great considering he was in his car seat for an entire day!! More pics and a detailed post to come later today or first thing tomorrow. Just in case, Happy Turkey Day! I hope everyone has as much to be thankful for as I do! :)

The Carroll Family

2009-11-19T14:12:00.000-05:00

Are words even needed??

Um, Yeah

2009-11-19T09:37:00.005-05:00

Remember this opening scene from the movie Office Space? This is what my daily commute has been like lately. Thank God today is my Friday!! We leave for VA tonight and I can. not. wait!! Sleeping in, relaxing, drinking, spending time with friends and family and - best of all - seeing Baby Gabe!!! I told my SIL she better not expect to hold, feed or change her son for the next few days. This weekend could make or break my "baby fever". It's been sticking around longer than usual. Hummmm.... :)

More to be Thankful For...

2009-11-18T09:53:00.002-05:00

This little boy. He's 2.5 going on 25. Doesn't he look huge?? This is is professional Christmas picture. I will post more later.

Venting...

2009-11-18T09:08:00.006-05:00

Sorry to be Debbie Downer today. I'm a little anxious and stressed. I have alot to do before leaving for VA tomorrow night. I know I can get it done, I just need to stop worrying about it. Also, I have a pimple the size of a grape fruit on my chin. What the?!?! I thought pimples stopped after high school. Annoying. I feel like people are staring at it when they talk to me. Of course I can't leave it alone, so now it's a red, swollen, flaky mess. It picked the worst time to rear it's ugly head because when I'm in VA someone always has something to say about 1) my weight or 2) the pimple on my face. It's awesome. Totally reassuring.

J Crew what the what!? Why are you so expensive? I love you so much but I refuse to pay for your clothes. Back in the day you were so affordable. Word on the street is that high school kids in Atlanta are buying your clothes now. High School kids? Really? What about the "real" people who don't have rich parents?

I will try and focus on the positive the rest of the day - I get to see Gabe in 2 days, I get to celebrate my Papa's 80th birthday, my son is somewhat healthy, my husband is wonderful and loving his new job, I have food to eat tonight and a roof over my head. Thank you Lord for all you have given our family.

Yes? No?

2009-11-17T10:53:00.004-05:00

I want a pair of fingerless gloves. These are cute from Gap. American Eagle also has them, but I'm WAY too old to shop there. I'm pretty sure you have to be under 16 or a mom that wants to be 16. You know who I'm taking about.
We have a crazy week ahead of us. Tonight Rob and I are both getting our hair cut. Tomorrow is a play date with Chloe and Thursday we leave for the VA - first Richmond to see college friends and then Lynchburg to see family and more college friends. I finally get to meet Gabe! I can hardly wait. I will take lots and lots of pics. I hope I don't blind him.

Flats

2009-11-13T15:27:00.003-05:00

These shoes may or may not be on their way to my house. Sorry babe. It was too good of a sale to pass up.

Love ya.

First Gift

2009-11-13T15:23:00.004-05:00

Your first Christmas gift will only cost $10 this year!

Unsafe water and lack of basic sanitation cause 80%
of all sickness and disease, and kill more people every
year than all forms of violence, including war.

$10 will provide one person in Africa clean water for 10 years!!

Donate here:
http://water4christmas.com/index.html

(information from Ashley Ann's site and Joy's Hope Blog)

Chase 2.7

2009-11-13T08:32:00.003-05:00

2 years and 7 months ago Chase was born. It was Friday the 13th. Who knows why 13 is supposed to be an unlucky number, but it's not for us - even if I don't believe in luck. The biggest blessing of my life was given to me on Friday, April 13th.

Chase - You are getting so big! You talk non stop and we have actual conversations about your day, your dog and sometimes Handy Manny. You still don't eat well, but you are growing and drink alot of milk so I guess we are ok. You still love your Daddy more than anyone else in the entire world. I think you could spend all day watching TV with him or reading books. Your favorite book is Where the Wild Things Are. You have a big portion of it memorized. Funny. You love school and tell me when I pick you up that you "no scare Remi anymore" which is good because we asked you to stop and you did. Thanks buddy.
We have alot going on the next few months. You are going to meet your new cousin Gabe next week. I think you are excited (mommy is!!). Christmas is coming and you know that it's Jesus' birthday and that you are going to ask Santa for a Rescue Pack. The other night I asked you who made you so smart and you said "God"... :)
Happy 2.7 birthday bud! I love you so much! Thank you for being such an amazing kid!

I'll Eat You Up....

2009-11-11T14:33:00.004-05:00

Rob was at Old Navy today and got Chase this shirt. I love it! Chase saw it and said "Mommy, that's your movie!!!"

His favorite line in the book is "I'LL EAT YOU UP" - I know he can't read, but he "reads" that line.

Weekend Fun

2009-11-11T08:01:00.003-05:00

The weather has been beautiful around here so we have been enjoying alot of outside time. Sunday Chase's friend Ben, his brother Matthew and his dad Mike came over. We went to the park across the street from my house and then played in my backyard for a while. The boys ate their nutritious lunch (Wendy's) on the picnic table attached to Chase's swing set. Needless to say, Chase took an awesome nap that afternoon!

This doesn't even look like Chase. He actually looks alot like me in this picture.

Christmas Picture Attempts

2009-11-10T08:28:00.004-05:00

I've been trying for weeks to get a good picture of Chase for our Christmas Cards. Here are a few of the attempts.

I hope he never comes home looking like this after a night out with his friends.

TV face. I think Chase may need a little break from TV.

After church in Philly. I thought it would be cute to get a picture of him on the steps of this house. He wasn't into it at all!!

"NO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"

I did finally get one that's ok. I will post it later once I receive the cards I'm ordering from an Etsy vendor today.

Run, Don't Walk

2009-11-09T13:39:00.002-05:00

I love music! Always have, always will. I listen to pretty much everything - including country. I was just listening to this Bon Iver album and it's AMAZING! I heard about the album on NPR months ago - it's amazing! Get it. You won't stop listening to it. Ever.

Christmas Pictures

2009-11-06T14:36:00.003-05:00

I know it's super early for Christmas pictures, but Chase is getting his done next weekend. Mainly because we are going to VA the weekend before Thanksgiving and are celebrating Christmas and my Grandfather's 80th birthday with my family. I always give my mom and grandparents pictures of Chase for Christmas in nice frames. They love them! So, Chase needs an outfit for his pictures. I'm not a dressy person and I don't like to dress my kid like a total dork. Here are a few things I found at Gap. We are a Gap family. I know alot of people don't like Gap, but I do. It's stylish and affordable (especially when you get cloths on super clearance). The first shirt is my favorite.

Oh, if you are wondering what to get Chase for Christmas that he will freak out about - how about getting him this tee. Also from Gap.

Can you tell I like Gray?

36

2009-11-06T12:49:00.004-05:00

(sorry about the pic, it was the only one on my memory card)

Tomorrow is Rob's 36th birthday!

A funny story:
Last year Rob, our friend and I were on the train going to the Phillies World Series Parade. We started talking to a group of college girls who were maybe 20. They asked me if our friend was my husband, I laughed and said no he was just my friend. Another girl points at Rob and asks if he is my dad?!?! It was hilarious - atleast Mike and I thought so. Rob, not so much. He doesn't even look that much older than me.

Happy Birthday Baby!
Thank you for being a wonderful husband and amazing father. God blessed my life the day we met a little over 11 years ago.
You are a wonderful example to our son. He learns so much from you. Not only the fun stuff like how to play baseball or throw a football, but the important things like how to love God and pray.
I hope you have the best birthday ever! And shoot a big 12 pointer hunting tomorrow.

SMILE

2009-11-05T10:18:00.002-05:00

From Becks, With Love...

2009-11-05T10:09:00.005-05:00

Until next season Phillies Phans.

My friend Rebecca summed it up pretty well. Here is what she had to say:

Well, my facebook existence has revolved around the Phillies for the past few months. So, I thought it fitting to write a note as the 2009 season came to a close tonight. I am very much saddened by this loss. SO CLOSE. I have watched every single game this season. I feel like I know all the players....and what a group to know and love. Being a Phillies fan, for me, has been more than just watching a game on TV. It has been a way to get together with friends on a Friday night to have a few beers and a good time. It has been texting my dad during all the games and making eachother laugh -- throughout the season, we made our own nicknames for all the players (Feliz Navidad, Mr. Utters, J Hole). It has been an outlet for all of us to take our minds off of our crazy lives. My one friend Dan Rosz, has sent me text messages since the beginning of the season, "Magic Number 100...Magic Number 30....Magic Number 2". Every single day I knew I would see this text message. It has been making fun of Tom McCarthy (but sure miss him after listening to this clown I like to call Joe Buck). And nothing like getting those text messages that said "RAULLLLLLLLLLL" - probably got about 1,000 of them this season.
And my dad just texted me and said "you know what I'm going to miss most?" (texting me throughout the games ). Geez could this get any harder? It was just the connection everyone had, me and my dad, Paul, my family, and friends had over this team.
I could literally go on and on about this sappy stuff. But this is a MANS sport - so I gotta man up and stop being such a girl.
Got to see a few great games at CBP - was at the game where Harry Kalas was inducted into the Wall of Fame. I remember the last homer he called, I believe it was Matt Stairs' HR. I was napping on Paul's couch half watching the game and heard the voice I grew up with. I hope he realized how much PHILADELPHA loved him.
How bout all the awesome games the Phils played??? Winning the NLDS, NLCS, getting into the World Series for the second year in a row? How about all those records we broke this season? How about picking up some unbelievable players. I don't remember our team when we didn't have Ibanez, Lee & Pedro --- they fit right in. And how about THAT RauLLLLLLLLLLL? Everybody loves him. He is an unbelievable talent and seems like the most awesome guy. Remember when Jimmy Rollins was in a 2 month slump and he got himself out of it by hitting close to .500? Brought that average right up. How about the BOMBS that Howard hit? How about that Chase Utley and his intensity? There aren't many players out there like him. He's a student of the game. And Victorino...he is something to watch. He is an animal! Remember when he got that beer thrown in his face? Priceless. And Chooch! He is the backbone of our team -- on his knees every game, determining the flow, trying to make it work with all of our pitchers, hitting clutch balls and you literally say "how the hell did he do that". Feliz's 3rd base skills are incredible. And Jayson WERTH, how could I forget. So fun to watch, he has quite an unnatural approach in his fielding and batting but it MORE than works for him. Boy looks like he wants to smoke a blunt and play guitar, but instead he's hitting homers and diving for balls in the outfield. J Happ - great rookie year. Wish I got to see him involved more in the playoffs, but he will have quite the career ahead of him.
Brad Lidge - I stuck by him all year -- I'll always have someones back that truly loves the game and comes out to each game trying to fix his mistakes and yea sometimes it is just not enough. People have bad years and I can understand that. He swallowed his pride on many occasions and I truly believe that he wants in the worst way to back up his boys and close out games. Don't forget he is one of the major reasons we won last year. He'll be back on point next year. Madson, took over for Lidge at times and came up with some big closes. Chan Ho - remember when he wore the Vote For Victorino cardboard sign? He's not too bad either.
CLIFF LEE - PIMP, MACHINE, MAN ON FIRE, WITHOUT NERVOUS SYSTEM! CANT WAIT TO WATCH YOU MORE NEXT YEAR.
To all the other Phils - the pitchers, the pinch hitters, the players brought up from the minors : you all contributed in major ways.
CHARLIE MANUEL -- like I said before -- someone you wish was in your family. He's a goofy dude, but he knows baseball and I think one of the reasons that the Phillies do so well is because he keeps things light and loves all of his players. Shout out to Dubee, Lopes, etc. too.
To the Phillies: Thanks for giving us an exciting and memorable season. I will miss this 2009 team.
To Dad, Mom, Paul, Jenn, Dan, Friends, Cousins, Work Peeps, C. Hahn, J. Heis, Squints, D Rosz, RJ Moffa, R. Brown & all the people that commented on my crazy pictures and posts - It's been fun. I WILL REALLY MISS THIS WITH YOU JENN DANDO (& Jr) - but atleast my cell phone bill will be a little lower!
What am I gonna do now ??? What a void!! Til next season.
Oh yea, and to Kate Hudson --- it won't last with that a - hole!!! He has a mural in his house of him as a Centaur -- that's right half horse/half man with his face. WHAT A DUFUS!