And Tristan makes 3 (well...5 actually)

New blog

2010-04-10T17:52:00.000-05:00

Many have asked... come see us at http://tristanholt.blogspot.com/

See you there!

Train for Da Da...um, I mean Mr. T :)

2010-01-14T10:27:00.001-06:00

John Deer ATV Baby!!!

2010-01-14T10:13:00.002-06:00

He gets another lion - tee, hee, hee

2010-01-14T10:09:00.001-06:00

Guns for Da Da - Game on!!!!

2010-01-14T09:54:00.003-06:00

FIRST STEPS!!!!!

2010-01-14T09:31:00.001-06:00

Cake face

2010-01-14T09:25:00.002-06:00

Time with Grandpa

2010-01-14T09:14:00.002-06:00

snuggle time

2010-01-14T09:10:00.002-06:00

From Tristan to his cousin!

2010-01-14T09:06:00.001-06:00

2010-01-14T08:40:00.002-06:00

Early birthday in NY

2010-01-14T08:35:00.002-06:00

Happy Early Birthday Mr. Cheeeks!

Christmas videos

2010-01-14T08:01:00.002-06:00

I am late getting these up... nothing to do on a sick day but sit home and catch up!

T's new Big Boy Chair

2010-01-14T07:56:00.002-06:00

Happy First Birthday Nugget!

2010-01-14T07:47:00.002-06:00

Yes...it's a birthday banana! He only eats certain things... work with me here!

Excuse my voice too, I'm sick!

Tomorrow my heart will rejoice...and break

2010-01-13T11:47:00.002-06:00

Well, tomorrow is the day my little man turns one. How the heck did this happen? I am NOT prepared. I am so sad that a year has flown by but so thankful for what it has held. You.

I celebrate the last 364 days, all that Tristan has brought to my and so many other's lives. He is far greater than I ever thought he could be. I don't deserve this sweet little man but am so thankful that God chose me... the horribly imperfect Julie to be his mom. Wow.

Tomorrow I will start his new blog and do my best to get this one bound. I want Tristan to have this ... the good and the bad.. to someday look back on and smile.

I love you sweet boy. I look forward to a million more laughs and snuggles and I can't wait to hear "Mommy, I love you." For today however, I will take your sweet little head nod and your open mouth kisses... and be thankful that you are EXACTLY the way you are. I wouldn't change one thing about you, not one single second (maybe take away you EVER being sick) but even that I know is preparing you for the world.

Tristan Holt Barber.... YOU are the greatest thing I have every done, your daddy and I love you more than you could ever imagine. Thank you for what YOU have given to us - God is good!!

Love, Mommy

He WON - AGAIN!!!

2010-01-11T15:43:00.004-06:00

Sorry..it's small. I couldn't post any other way. Ugh!!

BBC Photo shoot

2010-01-08T16:32:00.024-06:00

On December 11, 2009.... we tried to get all of the babies together from the last 24 months. We failed miserably... many were sick. Here's what we go though. I've only included some... cute ones of course!

Do not like this of me...

Connie loooooooooves some Tristan!

2 of my good friends here - we had our little ducks right in a row!

think she likes him?

EE and Mr. Cheeks

aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaw

So loved!

All the moms

T says "GOOD GRIEF!!"

More smooches!

Group shot!

Me n the gals!

My little man - I love you Tristan Holt Barber!

T and Mommy........

again

sweet face!

Happy Belated birthday Mama... sorry I didn't have the picture with the sign - I would have added to the blog!

The end!

Love, Tristan

I was Photo Shop-ped in!

2010-01-05T15:31:00.000-06:00

Random shots from Grandpa

2009-12-31T12:54:00.007-06:00

Here's Tristan with my FIRST Ridgeback... Nikita...

Tristan loved Nikita and Nikita loved food droppings :)

Dada with his new toy Rifle from my dad! Holt said his favorite was when he and his dad were getting ready for bed and he say the gun outside hanging on his door. He thought - WUHOOOO - It's ON!!!!

Singing Happy Birthday to The Nugget!

Freaky picture of Mama! Right before dinner in Syracuse - YUM!!!

Nugget opening his toys... he was pretty excited!

And finally... having some cheese PIZZA - YUM! He doesn't look like he's enjoying it but trust me... he did!

My dad sent these... thought I'd include! Thanks Dad!

Tristan's "FIRST" birthday... almost

2009-12-31T11:04:00.027-06:00

Well, I decided to throw Tristan's first birthday a little early so my family could join in on the fun as well! We'll have similar decs here for his party on January 16th.... so fun!!

Here's T's Yankee cake...

with a candle....

And Uncle Johnny... not sure what he was planning on doing with the remote, but Tristan was on to him. It WAS his favorite toy - ha!

Then he got a ton of fun stuff! Grandma helped open his toy from Aunt Kelly, Uncle Lee and Zach... it is a guitar! WUHOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!

Aunt Tracy loooooooooooooooooooooves the Nugget but he was antsy pants and wanted to play!

God bless you Tracy Poole... you put up with this extended family and always have!! We love you!!

T on his Christmas present from the Kinsons..... and the Lion rider from Grandpa!

First family pic!

Then I got in and Poolsie took it! I'm trying to crop myself into the other and have one family pic! Maybe I can crop Auntie T and Uncle Mike in too! :)

Little cutie........

Mom and her girls!

Kel and Aunt Jeanne

Kelly and Zach... I can't believe my nephew is 21 and I have an (almost) 1 year old - YOWZA!!!

Me n my mama!!

Uncle Johnny getting some quality time

Tristan says I'm ONE!!!!! He looooooooooooooooooooooooooves his Grandpa. I have seriously never heard my child belly laugh more than when he is with his Grandpa. They crawl all over the place and laugh and laugh and laugh. Great to see him and my dad THAT happy!!!

Yes... believe it or not people... my sis and I ... getting along. AGAIN. Who knows, maybe sissy and I are all grown up! :)

He's puzzled... MORE GIFTS? Yes, buddy.. more gifts!

Zach and his baby cousin!

Sweet little Nugget. Man... you are CUTE!

He loves his Aunt and Uncle! So many people vying for his attention!

Me n my best friend on the planet. I love you Tracy!

Hopefully more pictures will surface... sorry it's so crazy but I'm so stinkin' busy that I had to make sure they made it before the end of the year!!!

I hope everyone had a fantastic Christmas and of course...

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

SEE YOU IN 2010!!!

Sad...but only pics I have from Christmas day!!

2009-12-31T10:56:00.005-06:00

Aunt Jeanne and Uncle Johnny came to Aunt Kelly and Uncle Lee's house to visit Mr. T. Ok, they came to see us too but we can all be honest here.... Tristan IS the focus!!

Two of Grandma's Ya-Ya's!!

Daddy on Christmas morning with his Cowboys Santa hat... Santa does have good humor...

and his fly fishing vest from mommy, a bottle opener and a bottle of vino from the Kinsons!!

We were all spoiled rotten!!

Holt had fun with his new DROID phone....

And Tristan found his thumb again for Christmas. Little cutie!!

I'll find more pics... someone HAS to have them. This is pathetic!!!

Off to see Auntie T

2009-12-31T09:56:00.011-06:00

My mom, Holt, Tristan and I traveled on Monday to see Aunt Trisha, Uncle Mike, Aunt Teen and T's cousins Nicholas and Sophia. Aunt Trisha... you look BEAUTIFUL and I'm so thankful that you felt well enough for us to come and visit!

Here are a few pics with everyone. I miss you all more than you know!!

________________________________________

Grandma/Aunt Trisha... with the kiddos.... beautiful!!!!

Oh T and his Uncle Mike and Daddy...........

Me and my boy!

This is Nicholas and Sophia...Tristan's cousins - too bad he didn't want to play in the snow too!!

Uncle Mike loves Mr. T.................

This is Auntie Teen...........from our last trip.... sadly we didn't take one this time - oops!! Next time we have to get Christine AND Lamonte too!!

Not sure who enjoys the trains more...the kids... OR HOLT!!!

I wish we could have stayed longer............ we love you all!

Christmas Eve Post....

2009-12-25T19:12:00.002-06:00

I didn't have a chance to post but yesterday...

But...for (almost) my whole Yankee family to see...

Tristan took his first steps.

Two times...

then repeated again today when my Aunt Jeanne and Uncle Johnny came.

It's confirmed.... our boy is walking!!!

Maybe he'll show off for Poolsie at his birthday party on Sunday...

Maybe Aunt Trisha and Uncle Mike will get a "show" on Monday..

We'll see!

Merry Christmas T - you found your feet!! I love you!! Mommy

Merry Christmas!!

2009-12-25T19:06:00.002-06:00

Tristan met Santa... and it couldn't have gone ANY BETTER!! (Thanks Elizabeth)

Merry Christmas everyone!! God bless you and your family - and don't forget...

Santa rocks...but Jesus blows him out of the water!! :)

Christmas with the Olivers!!

2009-12-21T15:42:00.009-06:00

So, Tristan spent yesterday with the Olivers (minus John) and boy oh boy... did they all have fun.

Here is Auntie Connie...and two of her presents from T... HIS Christmas card (with a hand written note of course!) and a photo frame ... with pics behind it so she can flip and change it out whenever she wants. Plus, as I get more cuties... I can send the size I KNOW she can stick in there and the black matches everything!

Connie, her kids and her mom spent the day baking Christmas gifts and here's the little taste tester....

A break from baking.... cookie snuggles!!

Here's the clan. Mitchell is a bit peeved... Connie said that was about the 15th picture - hard to get everyone to cooperate!

And Mitchell feeling a bit more cheery... probably shot # 2! Ha!

Lauren (far left) is just as addicted to Tristan as Connie. Megan and Mitchell (both on right) love Tristan but like to play and then go..play and go... kind of how I am with kids.

I like giving them back!

Mr. T who apparently found a new best friend in Sandy. Worked for Little Orphan Annie, why not T!

Daddy and I came to pick up the Nugget and he had a Christmas surprise that was huge - he unwrapped it and had a blast playing with the paper. What's inside... hmmmm????

Well, it's awesome! It's something for him to ride then eventually peddle himself. It's awesome! He (and we) love it!!

Thank you for loving Tristan the way that you do. We love you guys almost... ALMOST as much as you love T. You guys are fabulous. Merry Christmas and we'll see you when we get back from NY!

Texas sledding!

2009-12-19T16:26:00.002-06:00

Silly Nugget

2009-12-19T16:24:00.003-06:00

He does this every night in the bathtub for about 2 minutes straight. It's only a second but you get the picture....

Welcome to the family Christmas!!!

2009-12-19T15:53:00.002-06:00

Holt bought me a kitty for Christmas!!! I love it!!!!!!!!

Let's Go Cowyboys!

2009-12-07T19:58:00.012-06:00

Well, it's official...he's a fan!!

(Nat....doesn't he look just like Christian in this picture??)

Yeah...I'm a Giants fan BUT............

BAM! I'm a Barber... Go COWBOYS~~~

A little cough to start off the game....

WUHOOOOOOOOOOOOO - he looks like he's picking bugs out of my hair!

He wants to be on the team.........

He shot off a quick email and told Marion he'd give him a run for his money!

WUHOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO! GO COWBOYS! Last week was a fluke...playoffs here we come!

I don't know how my boy did it...

2009-12-07T19:49:00.006-06:00

We got a gift from our son in the mail today.........

Yes, you read that right, it's from Mr. T ... SEE?

A gift certificate to mommy's FAVORITE restaurant. What a sweet and thoughtful boy we have! We love you Nugget, thank you!!!

PS - I think I know who did this............. but I'm not sure........... and you obviously won't say... SO, from the bottom of my Outback Steakhouse lovin' heart....

THANK YOU!

Sick but snuggly

2009-12-07T19:40:00.011-06:00

The ONLY "nice" thing about T being a bit under the weather is.... he's snuggly... he's NOT a snuggler.

He and I were watching our Praise Baby CD... whoever gave me that - it ROCKS!

I sang, he listened and watched...

sweet baby moments.........

He tries to hard to be happy even when he is sick

I'm trying, I'm trying he says!!

cuties!

There's my happy boy....

hmmm, I think he's D-O-N-E!

The tears break my heart...but again, he tried!

AWWWWWWWWWW!

Poor Nugget.....he's almost better..and now daddy is sick. BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO

Hey Aunt Trisha... Hey Grandma!?

2009-11-27T12:44:00.023-06:00

My mommy said that Gwama fell down and went BOOM and Aunt Twisha has a owie and feews icky.....

I wuv you duz dat make ewe feewl any beduh?

I wish you kuld-a come to my hows becuz we decowating fowa Chwissmus!

I pwayed jingle belws..

do you pway jingle bewls?

Den my mommy tolded me about Santa Cwas.

And dat he has a big bag of pwesents just wike dis one...

sept he doesn't bwing big boys wike me.. he bwings toys!!

My Da Da said dat I am gonna fwy to NY for Chwismus and I feel vewy vewy excwited!

but my mommy keeps twying to stick me in dis stupid hat and I don't wike it!

and you fink you have problwems!

I gettin ticked off at my mommy now.......

Hewe we go wiff da stupid hat again Gwandma........

Aunt Twisha, now you feel more bettew since you see me?

Did you see my twain video wiff my Da-Da?

I wook cute don't I? It was my twains from my Gwampa Hawold!

See I can be wike a Choo Choo too!

Do you fink I wook whike a Choo Choo when I did dat?

Ok, well it's time for my nap now... Mommy says I cwanky.......

I kept telling her it was becuz of dat hat. I don't wike it!

I wuuuuuuuuuuuuv you bofe!!

Feel bettew! Bye bye

Daddy set up the train from Grandpa!

2009-11-27T10:46:00.003-06:00

Daddy set up the trains from Grandpa Harold.

WOOOOOOOT - HOOOOOOOOOOOO

(get it.... train whistle... WHOOOT - HOOOOO)

Silly video

2009-11-17T06:14:00.002-06:00

Hiiiiiiiiiiiicuup!

2009-11-17T06:05:00.002-06:00

And I forgot to mention

2009-11-15T17:15:00.002-06:00

and THIS is for Tristan when he reads someday......

TODAY...

YOU ATE...

YOUR FIRST....

BUG. Poor moth.......that sucker didn't have a chance.

Thankfully "most of him" was on your chin. BLEEEEECK!

Auntie Margie is here for a visit!

2009-11-15T17:00:00.007-06:00

Auntie Margie flew in from Chicago to meet Mr. T and I think she likes him!!

I only took pics THIS morning at 5am before she left, I am so bad......... BUT we'll make up for it when we come to Chicago!

Thank you for his 2 sweet books......the birthday box cracks me up - so perfect for kids (and animals!!)..and I'll get a shot of him in his t-shirt soon.

Love you!

WHERE has 10 months gone!?

2009-11-15T16:51:00.008-06:00

Can he REALLY be 10 months old already? Everyone said time would fly.......and it has.

*SIGH*

Ok, so this is pushing it.......but it's one of my favorite pics of Tristan and Daddy, I think it qualifies for the friends and family wall for sure!

Last week our little stinker started all of his new moves... pulling himself up, crawling down a step, holding his sippy cup (we're still working on getting the stuff OUT...but it's progress), crawling on his knees vs. the army crawl.......

But, yesterday he started to really "bust-a-move" and cruise all over the place.

Today.......he stood himself up and just STOOD THERE.... first it was 5 seconds, then 10... so as I was getting ready, Holt called me out to look and he stood there, just stood there looking at daddy and I for at least 30 seconds. I was so proud of him but I felt the lump in my throat.... the little guy...well, he's getting bigger. I knew it would come but SO FAST? So much progress in a week? Sheesh......

But I'm proud of you Tristan. Still, it's very hard for me so I'm getting my tattoo soon. It will be a DAILY reminder that he is not mine to "keep" but to train and release to the world and I will need God's hand and help with that one.

Anyway....... here are some sweet pics of T and his "woobie" not a blanket mind you, not a teddy bear.... oh yeah..... you GUESSED IT...........a USB CHORD. I know.... ridiculous.

He loves it...first thing he goes and grabs in the morning....

Can you see the love in his eye?

"Ahhhhhhhhhh, I'm with you at last" he sighs!

That was after he kissed it... which he does after he sucks on it for a second. I'm quite sure I can get in to trouble for DSS for this.. Hee, hee, hee

Crazy, crazy baby..................maybe it's just a sign that he'll love Excel spreadsheets just... like... his... mama!

Aunt Tracy makes the Auburn Hall of Fame....

2009-11-15T16:48:00.005-06:00

Holy crap... I am proud of my best friend on the planet. I love you Trac!!!

I am sick to my stomach that I couldn't be there.... but so glad most of the Ya-Ya's made it!!

WUHOOOOOOOOO POOLSIE!!!

Last one....

2009-11-08T18:41:00.003-06:00

Playin with Da Da...

For the family.......

2009-11-08T18:29:00.003-06:00

These really are ridiculous....

Video silliness

2009-11-08T18:16:00.002-06:00

We FINALLY have a computer again!

2009-11-06T20:31:00.021-06:00

Hi evweey-one! Do you wike my toy fwom my Aunt Jeanne and my Uncle Johnny?

I'm not exactly sure how it woooks.........

I fink I might wike it.......

Oh yeah........dat's wight.......... I do, I DO!!!

It makes Aswan a wittle nervous dough cuz it moveded all by itsewf!!

Can you come pway wiff me?

Here awe my cawds fwom my Aunt Jeanne & Uncle Johnny and my Aunt Twacy.......my ma ma caws hew Pookie.......I wuv dem awl

Dese are da punkin guts my da da took out of my scawy punkin!

Do you fink he wooks wike me? Same teef, wight?!!

Dese awe my bwuvawwwwwws, Aswan an Simba

Dis is mommy's favorite picture of us boys!!!

we sure are handsome! Do you wike it?

My da da is siwwy!!

I fink he wuvs me............

Ma Ma's second favewit picture.......

she says dat we are waaaaaay too cute!!

tickle tickle!!

Can you see my Hawwoween cosume?....... it was vewy vewy good...... wook...........WOOK cwoooooooooooooooser........ can you see wha I am?

A SEEPING BABY SIWWY!!!!

Hope you all had a safe holiday, and NO CAVITIES!! We love you!!

Daddy chaser!

2009-10-29T21:25:00.002-05:00

Holt returned home after a week in Rhode Island... and he and Mr. T had a blast!!

Hope you enjoy!

Pumpkin patch fun!

2009-10-25T10:05:00.012-05:00

Yesterday we joined the Oliver clan at the pumpkin patch.... Tristan was NOT in a good mood but that's what happens when we don't take a nap!

I think she loves him....

Close-up of the cutie!

Grumpy!!

Lauren Oliver....

FREE Ride..........

That's the Nugget and Mitchell's "Pete-y" too funny...Mitchell was in love with his pumpkin!

Wait.......is this a smile I see?

Random pics from home....

Comin' to get me.......

Someone's mad because I won 't give him the camera

hee, hee, hee

Have a happy Sunday!

We're having a hard time with veggies!

2009-10-24T17:40:00.002-05:00

Can I get a...............

2009-10-23T18:22:00.002-05:00

WUHOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!

Grandma came home the the hospital! See, God DOES answer prayers!!

Love you Grandma!

Pssssssssssssssssst!

2009-10-21T14:08:00.010-05:00

(Spoken in his best Italian blah blah blah blah tone...)

Hey....YOU!? Can 'ya help me out ova'hea? I'm a little...uuuh... STUCK!

I'll trade you a mum mum, a squishy toy or a blankie.... HEY - can ya get me outta here?

I can smell you... I know you're still there....

HEY - I'M TALKIN' TO YOU!! Don't make me call Bruno!!

Pleeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeease?

I'll give you kisses!!!!!!!!!!

Fine......

But you better watch out........... I got my eye on you! I know where you live buddy!

That's it... I'm gonna close my eyes and count to three.....

Uno.........

Due...............

Tre.........................

Nada........

I'll just sit........and wait........for my Da Da............

*SIGH*

The End

9 months old....WOW

2009-10-21T13:59:00.006-05:00

Hey did you hear dat I am 9 months old? I'm a big boy now......

Yup, uh huh... I even weigh 18 powns 'n 10 ownziz.... they say that dat is 25th pewrcentile, whatever dat means... I tink I'm juuuuuuuuust wight!

and guess what else?

Dey said dat I am 29" tall and dat is da 75th pewcentile.... so my mommy says dat I am tall like my Da Da!! 'N my head is 45 3/4 so I'm weal, WEAL, WEAL smawt...........

So, see, I'm a big boy 'n I'm happy 'n I'm healthy 'n since I didn't have to have any shots, I'm happy. Wanna come over and pway wif me?

______

Well, what they say is true...time flies!! We are having a blast!!!!

Have you seen my rattle?

2009-10-21T13:52:00.001-05:00

Well, HAVE YOU!????????

Crawl...out the door!

2009-10-21T13:51:00.004-05:00

It's official...life has forever changed...

the kid can fly... ok, maybe not fly....

but he's crawling all over the place.....

oh boy... are we in for it or what!?

MiBo!!

2009-10-21T13:46:00.004-05:00

When MiBo first arrived.... T says - "BOO!"

Tristan loooooves his Auntie Michelle...Peek-A-Boo!

I think she liked him too - can you tell? Great having her here, we miss our Chicago friends so much and are so thankful when they come to stay with us!!

Come back soon 'Chelle!!!

Hubba.... Bubba?

2009-10-21T13:40:00.012-05:00

Tristan's first experience with gum....

this looks interesting...

can I have it?

Closer....

Daddy loves Hubba Bubba... he loved it so much he at the WHOLE thing......

I'm warning you... it gets worse....

Is that a TONGUE or GUM? It's GUM............

See?

None left Nugget... sorry!

Nasty daddy........

He can't stop laughing!

Silly Da Da!!

Happy Birthday Holtie AND Baby Hill!

2009-10-20T16:23:00.004-05:00

I've been bad about blogging... I've just been so dang busy. I have lots of pics to post but I just had to say... HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO Holtie.

Daniel and Liz (our friends from Chicago) had their little guy... Alexander Hill in Holt's honor! Ok, not really...but it's fun to pretend! 8 lbs 11 oz a...nd was 21.5 inches - wow! That's a baby!!

First shot of little Xander! So sad we aren't there to see you in person little guy. We'll see you soon!!!

Tonight we are headed to dinner with two of our other great friends from Chicago... Phil and Michelle. They are moving and stopping along to Dallas on the way- can't wait!!! I stole their picture from Facebook... :)

That's Bubba...Aslan's best friend. Just don't tell Simba!

Will post more pics tomorrow!!

These are silly and boring...

2009-10-13T18:13:00.002-05:00

I can't believe I am even posting these... but my mom and dad will love I'm sure. :)

I look HORRIFIC......it's my Halloween face - LOL

Angie........... YOU are amazing........WOW...

2009-10-13T13:43:00.003-05:00

This family has a story that I cannot imagine... this is the first link... and her story goes on and on...

If you have the time......it's life changing..... there is every possible emotion involved.........

the beginning....

http://audreycaroline.blogspot.com/2008/01/beginning-of-story.html

and this.... make sure you watch the video and read the letter to her daughter.

http://audreycaroline.blogspot.com/2008_04_01_archive.html

I could read for HOURS! She inspires me as a believer as a mother......as a friend.... what we leave is a LEGACY.......life should not be taken for granted.

Thank you Jennifer. What a blessing this woman is!! Honestly, I aspire to be 100th of who she has proved to be. Wow...........

Happy Halloween Dad!!

2009-10-07T18:14:00.015-05:00

Mommy, can you teach me to be scaaaawee for Halloween?

Like RRRRRRRRRRRAR..........scaweeeeeeeeeeee?

That is funny mommy......... what is it?

When you were little gwampa said to you "I want my HEAD!!" and you would hide undew da cuvewrs and undew da bed?

I bet gwampa was scaweee mommy but you aw funny....not scaweeee....

tell me how and I will twy and be scawee wike my gwampa did ..............

ok, ok, i fink i godit now.........

i have on my scawee halloween shuurt from auntie connie........

and I do one awm like dis.........

and one awm like dis..............

den i yell

"I WAAAAAAAAAAAAANT MYYYYYYYYYY HEAD!!!"

how did i do gwampa?

mommy got scawed so i said

WHAT MOMMY?

IT WASN'T ME...... i pwomise!!!

This is so fun!

2009-10-07T09:06:00.004-05:00

More pics of my cute face!

2009-10-06T21:08:00.023-05:00

Life is...........hard. No one said it would be easy. But these men in my life.......they make it all worth it.

Kickin it.......

Streeeeeeeeeeeeeeetch!

Now I lay me down to sleep I pray the Lord my thumb to keep!!

Can you see my peach fuzz?

I could eat him!!

Think he's cute?

Giggles

I see Grandma..........and Grandpa........... (it's the NY version of the family picture book! There is a Dallas and soon to be a Ya-Ya book - never too early to quiz the little man!)

Topsy turvy with Da Da!

wuhooooooooo

Can you see my teeth?

Not really........

GRIN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Peek-A-Boo!

Weeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!!

C-U-T-E!

Flyin high!

More of an update on us this week...........love you all!!

Sweet moments

2009-10-03T13:28:00.017-05:00

This is what Saturdays are made for........

Time with my boys!!!

It was going well......

Aslan accidentally scratched the Nug!

Poor Bubba!

He's happy now.......gonna try and post a clip with him laughing so you can see him 3 and almost 4 new teeth!!

My boys and their bottles....

2009-09-29T19:39:00.003-05:00

Tee, hee, hee

Let me outta here!!!

2009-09-27T09:06:00.007-05:00

Tristan was standing in his window yesterday watching Daddy work.......

and he kept pressing his face up against the glass.... it was too cute!

then we let him lean on the screen......

Here is out little guy lookin' like such a big boy.......... the fur kids are behaving as well.

*SIGH* the time is going by so quickly. I'm excited for all the fun stuff we can do and things we can teach him but the days of my snuggly little I'll -just-sit-here-until-you-move-me days are - OVER! Ha!

Time to head back to Dallas... ha! Or so we thought...

2009-09-23T14:56:00.004-05:00

So we get up and have coffee with Chrissy after Josh and the kids are off to school/work. Tristan is tugging on his ear so I decide it would be good to take him to get checked out. Then, I go online to check-in and our flight has been moved up FORTY FIVE minutes AND we weren't sitting together.......... UH OH... kill me now.

I yell at Holt and we pack and get in the car SO fast. We are out of gas... lovely. But we JUST make it. Off to the Emerga-Care place. Thankfully they got us in quickly and had a great doc. He saw Tristan and as suspected, ear infection. Wonderful. At this point we had exactly ONE HOUR to get to the airport, return the rental car and get on our flight. If we stopped and got T's prescription filled, we would miss our flight. The doc said give him Tylenol and he'll be fine. I felt like a horrid mom but we trusted him and off we went.

We got to the airport with 30 SECONDS (and I am NOT exaggerating) to check-in. I was SPRINTING with Tristan in the stroller and Holt was returning the car. He just made it and BAM... in! $300 saved. WHEW!

We get on the plane and off we go. Ugh oh...captain says BAD weather in Atlanta.

We land and find out it's a 3 hour layover. Now due to weather, it's a FOUR hour layover. 8 month old sick little guy that is cutting 4 teeth. Lovely. So, we wait. We have lunch, Tristan eats and we plop down on the floor to let him crawl around. I watched the news and things looked GRIM so I called my Ya-Ya Lisa to see if she and her hubby were ok. She said as far as she knew.... all was ok. So I told her I loved her and hung up.

The more Holt and I talked and looked out the window...the lightening the thunder... we KNEW we weren't going anywhere. So, I called Lisa and asked if we could spend the night. We turned in our tickets and headed for the MARTA (train system) to go meet Lisa. She called me back and ALL ROADS are flooded. Lovely. We get on the train. We wait. After about 20 minutes, the dude comes on the system and tells us that the tunnels are flooded. We aren't going anywhere. Well, we can go north BUT have to get off and take a bus for the rest of the stops. Lovely. So, we wait. Lisa calls and tells us her area is FLOODED, everything is under water, she can't even drive her car to her house. So, she will get us when she can. The dude comes back on and tells us that FINALLY, the water has receded and we can ride the train up. At this point, Tristan is wailing...and all of the riders are clapping and smiling trying to get him to be happy. It was kind of cute - and surprising for Atlanta.

We FINALLY get to the stop and get off and Lisa isn't far. We jump in her car and off to CVS..maybe 2 miles away. AN HOUR LATER........we get there. Holt goes up and give the pharmacy T's prescription and they tell him 30 minutes. In my nicest tone, I walk up and tell them that i am about to miss my flight and that I desperately NEED them to fill my prescription. Tristan has been traveling for almost 10 hours now... my little white lie won't kill anyone. He fills it. God bless that man! Off we go to Lisa's.

We get there and this is what we found:

This is her golf course.......... with a man kayaking on it......

looks more like a swimming pool......

this is the street....... they PUSHED the car out of the way - it was INSANE!

Sooooooooo, Thad comes home and he and Holt scope out the area. Impassable. So, we drive up on top of the hill and cut through neighbors yards to get to their house. The dogs are shaken up a little but ok... we get in. Home... at last!

Tristan gets a bottle and a bath and then I lay on the bed with him until he falls asleep. I then put him on his makeshift bed on the floor and he sleeps. Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah. Time for a drink. Uh oh........... lights O-U-T! Power..............GONE! ugh

Thankfully Lisa got creative in the kitchen and fed us because I was starving. We hit the hay and then got up VERY early to make it back to the MARTA and then back to Dallas. Yesterday was uneventful. Holt had to work and I had to stay home with Tristan due to his fever. Thankfully it's just teeth and his ears. The Swine Flu is going around my office and I'm a little freaked by it...trying not to over react..but it's scary.

Well, that about sums up our trip. It was great to see Lisa and Thad (sad I didn't take pictures but the camera died right after those above) so that was all she wrote.

A beautiful city, some relatives, two ya-ya's and family and a whole bunch of great friends! We missed a few people but I have a feeling we'll be back to Charleston soon to see YOU too!

Pray for us...... lots to decide! Thank you to everyone who was so generous to my family - it made the trip even that much more fantastic. I miss you all!!! Jul

Lester, Ash and the gang!

2009-09-23T14:28:00.018-05:00

This is my friend Ashley...... I call her Ash. We all used to work together at LifeQuest... oh how I miss you friend!

This is Lester.... meeting Mr. T for the first time. yahooooooooo

He wasn't as sleepy as he looked.......

Did I mention she's kicking' cancer's butt!?

This is her daughter Lexi..... adorable.. but she was onto me... anytime the flash went off, she closed her sweet little eyes!

And here Lexi is sharing with Tristan. She even went and got him his own paper and marker!!!

TOO CUTE!

This is Rhett... Lester's hubby... I'm not sure if he's picking his foot or not.. but for the record, he would and he'd throw it at you... HE ROCKS!

And crazy, crazy Wayne... Ash's hubby........ big goofball!

T, kickin' it with the Moores!

It was close to bedtime and close to the start of the game which sadly, 8pm was too late for the little man so we had to leave. BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO :(

She was teaching him to stand up like Ya- Ya Lisa did!!

Holt snapped this and I think it's funny.... I said WHAT!? and he took it - ha!

I think she loves my boy - wanna baby sit Lester?

Here's Ash again... she and I had the camera most of the time so we weren't "in" much....

exactly what happens to my sister-in-law... now I get it!

Lester gave me a little goodie box with cute clothes for Tristan. I of course, forgot it... or I'd post the cute things! We looked around their neighborhood...just checked out the area..and gave Holt a feel for "things".

I know... I know... you want to KNOW...but I don't KNOW... so this is it ... for now. :)

Church and more!

2009-09-23T14:13:00.013-05:00

On Sunday, we got up and poor Chrissy was sick! Josh got the kids ready and off the 8 of us went! We met my Lester and her hubby Rhett and kids...and Ash and her two kids at Seacoast. it was awesome!

I saw my old Pastor, Greg Surratt and Michael Morris. Both of their jaws dropped as I approached and said who I was. Hey, a lot changes in 7 years - plus I'm brunette and have a baby in my arms... that's a lot!

After church Tristan desperately needed a nap so back to the house and when he woke up we were off to the Norris'!

Tracy and Fred have been my mentors from the day I said yes to my faith. They have been through ups and downs, and have stood by me thick and thin. I have loved their children like they are my own and to see who they have become today... heck, that just shows you who Fred and Tracy ARE. And that........ is fabulous.

This is Tracy......

Keating showed us a video of him singing and it was awesome... then Julia Ann (Ju Bug as I call her) jumped on the piano and played and sang something she wrote. I cried my eyes out.. I mean tears streamed down my face and I could cry again now. They are beautiful and I love them so very much.

Good ole' Freddy boy chattin' with Holt!

Tristan was getting hungry and I completely spaced on what time it was. Mr Fussy was just Mr. Hungry - sorry Norris family!!

He got a little ball from Mrs. Tracy and he looooooved it!

Family photo!

Too sweet!!!

I LOVE YOU GUYS!

So I jumped in! I think I'm happy........

Mr. T looks hungry doesn't he? Oops!

Off to see Lester and the gang we go...........

Goooooooooooolie!

2009-09-23T14:02:00.006-05:00

Well, we met up with my niece Brooke (I call her Schnookie, she now goes by Amber Brooke - her given name) and her daddy Wayne (my ex husband's brother) I know that may be confusing but read again, you'll catch on!

I haven't seen either of them in years but have been in touch via Facebook and it's been great! I have known Brooke most of her life..... she is even MORE fabulous today than she was the last time I saw her and I am SO proud of the woman she is becoming. There is a chance she'll be on American Idol this January......... I mean, I don't know for sure, I can just say there is a chance...... and IF she is, you don't want to miss it. Trust me!!

As she walked closer I heard "Gooooooooooooooooooolie!!!!" - that's what she and my step-kids used to call me. I don't like saying "step" but it's confusing if I don't... so anyway... she came flying up to me and hugged me so tight and then (as most everyone does) was like - whatever - GIVE ME THAT BABY!! ha! It was awesome... she's a natural and Tristan loved her!!

Here's Wayne jumpin' in the photos too! We were at a restaurant on the top floor of a hotel, it was beautiful and truly one of the best views of the city.

Daddy doing some arm curls with the little man... he loved it!

We had just attempted to get on a carriage ride. We made it about 15 minutes and then Tristan had enough! He was hot, bored and began to roar. So, we jumped off and walked...... A LONG WAY - no stroller... and it was HOT... so pardon how sticky and sweaty I am but here I am with my Schnook!

We only had about an hour with them because we needed to get back and get ready for our date. It was awesome seeing both of them and truly, for ME personally... it was life changing. Brooke looked right at me and said "You were the person I most looked up to when I was little, you were the person I wanted to be like" - it was bitter sweet because she deserved a PERFECT mom (which I know none of us are, certainly NOT me) but so wonderful that I made even a slight difference in her world. God used that moment to cement something for ME.... that my past served a purpose and it was NOT a waste.

Amen.

Charleston fun

2009-09-23T13:53:00.005-05:00

We arrived on Thursday night and after putting Tristan down, we just hung out with Chrissy and Josh and ate and had some red wine and caught up. It was MORE than fun to see my Ya-Ya and just relax and get away from it all.......

Friday morning, we got in the rental car and headed downtown. Holt has never been before so it was time to show off my old stompin' grounds!

We had lunch at A.W. Shucks..... and it began the eating frenzy!!

Fun times with Daddy... and I was present... but I never get in the pics..although I did below... and it ain't pretty!

Not sure what happened to this pic... check out the sub in the back though! My dad will love that one......

Then me and my boy......

So we spent the rest of the day touring Folly Beach, James Island and walking all over downtown. Tried to get a hold of little Rally but couldn't find him so we just raced around....and then headed back to the VanScoys for dinner that night! All 9 of us hit the road and we went to Shem Creek........

We went to a restaurant that all the old shrimp boats pull up to. Needless to say, my hubby was in awe. Tristan ate a bunch of new stuff and appears to be a MUCH better eater than I ever was. He LOOOOOVES some food!

Then, back home to chill... gearin' up for Saturday!

Tristan + sand is..um...sticky!

2009-09-23T13:37:00.010-05:00

Most of you know this but in case you are new to reading.......we are beach ADDICTS. I LOVE the beach and Holt... he loves anything involved with water. I think he'd actually become a fish if he could. So, we took Tristan and introduced him to the ocean.

I couldn't resist this though........ a drawing of Mr. T... so Mr. T met our Mr. T!!

Then Holtie holds up Tristan and we laugh our butts off when we see this because he looks like a baby doll!!

This is going in a frame..... it doesn't get ANY better than this....... period!

THIS picture is 100% ME... ok, FINE... if there was a LION hauling all of YOU down the beach in the background - THAT would be MY LIFE!!!

Sweet little feet in the sand......

Daddy was dipping the Nugget's feet in the water and he quickly learned how to watch the wave and pull his legs up to avoid the chilly waves...... if I only had the Flip with me!!

Life uuuuuuuuuuuuuuup!

Now, let's see what he thinks of sand........ he'd never seen it......... and he LOVED to feel it through his hands. He played for a while - it was ADORABLE!

Then my boy buried my boy.........

Well, it was time to go... we still had lots to see and lots to do....

Uh oh........sand is sticky.......... there was sand in places that had never seen the sun. I wiped and cleaned and blew and wiped and cleaned... to no avail...........

So, this is how it ended until I could get to the stroller........

DADDY CAUGHT A BIG FISH!!

OH TRUST ME............ the stories GET better!!

Aaaaaaaaaaaaaah, Charleston!

2009-09-23T13:22:00.009-05:00

Well, I'll post as many as I can today... busy day catching up at work so I'll keep it short and sweet.

We didn't get our camera out and I could just smack myself...... here is dinner with the VanScoy gang and man are they the fun bunch!! Katie didn't make the cut in this picture... but here she is in all her glory below - ha!

Here's Bean with my little man - sho looooooooooooooves Tristan!

Tristan meets Pixie... first time with a kitty and of course, Will getting his goofie on!

More Pixie time.......

and after all the fun......the games began.........POKER TIME! Please don't call DSS on me... :)

And Holt and I went on a date night on Saturday. We went to the Boat House, enjoyed a cocktail and some seafood... right up my alley.

We came home to find that after a walk with the VanScoys .... my little man was eaten alive. Apparently he has MY blood......Holt never gets bit and I am their prime target. Poor Nugget!

I'll get into more trip detail in a few......

Charleston stories will come...

2009-09-22T18:28:00.002-05:00

I just had to post that tonight!

8 months and counting...

2009-09-14T09:41:00.004-05:00

Well, I cannot believe my little man is 8 months old today. How the heck did that happen? Wow. My mom asked me this morning if I every remember a time without him and to be honest...... my heart doesn't. I have never been more blessed.... I have a husband that loves me more than anything and he is SO good to me...... and he's ridiculously handsome and he's probably one of the kindest people I know.

Then, I get this little boy who is so sweet and loving. He's a great sleeper and becoming quite the snuggly little guy. He's a little serious in this picture but it's because the flash kept getting him, tee, hee, hee

Happy 8 Months Bubba...... Mommy and Daddy love you more than you can imagine. YOU mean everything to us!!

PS Nugget..... a little not from Grandma.....

Happy 8 months old today to my little Tristan...wow, the time has just flown by!! you make me smile all the time, little sweetie!!

Love, Grandma

I REALLY need 5 lb handweights......

2009-09-13T19:44:00.003-05:00

That is pathetic!! Bottles of red wine........... I GUESS that's encouraging. Work out, burn fat, celebrate with a glass of red........

A word from our CHAIR-man

2009-09-11T19:35:00.006-05:00

Good evening everyone, may I have your attention............ I'll like to address a topic very near and dear to my heart. While you may think my job as chairman is easy, it's not. I have very serious things to consider like - WILL I let my parents sleep, WILL I decide to eat or WILL I pull a hunger strike, WILL I be held by anyone OTHER than my mom or my dad and finally.... there are the diaper issues.

Personally, I'm a fan of diapers. I've heard of potty training... but seriously... why bother? There are no lines because the bathroom is "local", I don't have to pull over cuz "I gotta go" and if there is not toilet paper... NOT MY PROBLEM.

What? I live the life of reilly? Sooooooooooooooo - what's your point? Don't hate me because you fell for the "potty training" scheme.

Ladies and gentlemen... this is a very serious matter. I think it makes sense financially too... I'm checkin' with Dave..... while diapers can be pricey, I am saving time, gas, and the list goes on I'm sure.

But for now, I'll need you to watch the following video. I truly feel that this subject

LAUGHING

MATTER.........

BAD, I KNOW......BUT I JUST COULDN'T HELP MYSELF.

This kid is nuts!

the verdict is in.......

2009-09-10T19:18:00.002-05:00

He's crawling!!! Yowza...........

Last one (for today.........)

2009-09-09T20:01:00.002-05:00

just more kinda boring bouncing... for the grandparents!

2009-09-06T18:48:00.003-05:00

To crawl or not to crawl...that is the question!

2009-09-06T18:30:00.004-05:00

You decide....did he crawl? I still think MAYBE... a little...

Giggles

2009-09-01T19:59:00.002-05:00

For Grandma....

2009-09-01T18:23:00.003-05:00

Just for YOU Mom..... (and sorry Uncle Lee.....I tried to get everyone!)

he's not doing much but you needed a change of "scenery"..

Cousin Grace is drivin!!!

2009-08-27T18:50:00.002-05:00

Yum Yum Mum Mums!!

2009-08-27T18:16:00.005-05:00

Time with Grandpa

2009-08-27T18:09:00.002-05:00

Sorry it took me so long!!!

Just stuff...

2009-08-27T11:56:00.003-05:00

I was just reading my friend Kristin's blog... I love Durby. I love her pictures, notes, laughs, I love her fabulously fun blog and I love her honesty. Honesty is so important. The thing about it though... is... sometimes, it's hard - it's a tough nut to swallow. While I struggle with WHAT I should and shouldn't put on here... I've decided that Tristan will know the good and the bad. I'll be leather binding these pages for him once the year mark hits so he can see his crazy mommy's world... including him... and some day, he'll get a better perspective of who I am. Good... and bad.

Life has been quite the struggle lately. Surprisingly, Tristan has been the easy part. He sleeps 12 - 13 hours straight, he's eating well, he's a ball of laughs and our lives are the better because of him. He is loved by so many and he has truly been the ONE thing that on certain days, made me get up.

Holt and I went back and forth as to whether I was struggling with depression. It's not the easiest thing to diagnose. As I noted before, I tried meds and they sucked out loud... so then I tried the gym. It worked MIRACLES!! I know that about myself and I know that about staying physically fit, it is KEY to happiness. I couldn't afford my gym membership and a friend at work shocked me and paid for my membership for 6 months. I won't say who... but I will just say that it ABSOLUTELY changed the life of my family because while I am not THINNER... YET... I am much, much happier. I am a nicer version of me.

I sent an email to my core group of girls that love me unconditionally, that know me the best - the ones I TRULY allow to speak truth into my life. I gave them the skinny on a really bad fight that Holt and I had... and they loved me enough to hear me, to call me out on my behavior and to challenge me going forward. Heck, Audra and I had breakfast and she got right in my grill and asked when I was making time to get my nose in the Bible. Ar, she and Pic spent a few days praying and sent me a letter reminding me that some of the old "stuff" that I had hope was long gone...actually wasn't and reminded me of what they know to be true of me as well - it was awesome. There were many, many more.. including my mom - God bless her I beat the proverbial "dead horse" over and over with her. I love you Mommy!!

My heart is heavy for my Auntie T and for Lester struggling with cancer. My friend Deb's heart is broken and I'm angry FOR her. My friend "A" is longing for her life partner and I think she's ready and so PATIENTLY waiting but COME ON GOD! Sheesh! Holt is working his butt off in real estate and the market is better... but seriously - come on!! My sis and bro could be out of a job any day now and that is just down right scary. Our good friends are possibly getting a divorce and another set is just in a complete mess - pain, pain, PAIN and I know it's life but I'm sick of it. Sick of it. The co-dependant side of me wants to fix it all but I know better. I know what I need.

Balance.

So now I am just doing my best to FIND balance. But it takes effort not to let yourself get overwhelmed with others burdens. Holt and I are doing great, we are able to talk about the hard stuff and sometimes we agree and others, well, we just agree to disagree. I think things are safer in our marriage. I don't think he's walking around on eggshells with me (as much) and I'm hoping that he can see how much I love him not only because of my words but because of my actions. Both are vital in a marriage and it's easy to SAY I love you and then your actions say otherwise. I don't want to be that wife.

Having a baby changes everything. People can tell you that until you are blue in the face but until you are THERE.... you have no idea. Not just the physical, or the raging hormones... your entire WORLD changes. And quite frankly, I think for the better.

I can no longer just do as I please. I have to be home by 6:30 or 7pm ...well, I don't HAVE to but I WANT TO. I want to feed and bathe and play with my little guy and then put him in his crib after I pray with him. I don't want to miss a moment of his life...well, more than I already have. I have a few friends that don't get this but they are stay at home moms and see their kid(s) all the time. I see him 30 minutes in the morning and then for about an hour at night and I miss him. I miss him terribly. Last night I sat at his crib and cried because I went 2 days of not getting much time with him and I missed him. My heart was sad.

So, for today, I am seeking balance. Holt and I need to do stuff for us too and I realize that. I am "coming around the corner" and know that it's not healthy to be 100% focused on Tristan but cut me some slack, I'm a first time, still relatively "new" mom. We have about 20 people begging to babysit and I need to take some of them up on it. I hate that Tristan isn't in his own bed but he'll get used to a pack and play. Sleepovers... yeah, no offense anyone but that ain't happening for a while. Judge me however you'd like to but giving him up for a few hours at night is fine but not seeing his sweet cheeks first thing in the morning? I'll pass...

I will say though... it really, really hurts my feelings when people's comments are "you never DO anything anymore", I never see you, you're no fun", blah, blah, blah. Whether you know it or not... I'm a full time mom, full time assistant to two VERY demanding men, a full time wife and in my spare time, I'm trying to lose 20 pounds. I have a ton of friends that I am SO blessed to have but try SO hard to pray for and stay in touch with. I am serving at church, trying to do my Bible study and spend some much needed time walking and training my dogs. So while my life doesn't look very "FUN" to YOU.... it's FUN for ME. People really should be more careful with their words, myself included.

I'm looking forward to heading to Charleston next month. Holt and I know our next "chapter" is beginning......... we're hoping this trip provides the "where".

Thanks for those of you that love me for being ME and not asking me to be someone I'm not. Because, for the record, I'm pretty sure this is the ME that's staying. Thank God Holt loves "her"!!!

Whew...I feel better now.

He is loved....by many!

2009-08-23T07:11:00.008-05:00

Auntie Margie sent Mommy.....ok, FINE... she sent Tristan this blankie she made for him. I love it and I want to steal it but she's calling and checking on me to make sure that I've let my son enjoy it... hee, hee, hee... It is SO soft... and it's the perfect color... ORANGE is the Barber color for sure!! Thanks Margie!

Yesterday, Tristan and I went to IHOP to meet his Auntie Audra! Mommy's very, very good friend........... and he was a bit of a "poopy pants" at first...

I think he was hungry is all............BUT...after Audra's nose ..... and .... some pancakes...

He got better......... I think she loves him.......

What do you think?

My child is very, very loved. And THAT makes a mommy............HAPPY.

Weekend fun

2009-08-10T21:11:00.031-05:00

We all met Friday afternoon at the firehouse and watched our kids play and met new spouses and laughed our butts off with old friends... this was the beginning of our pyramid... we will do this for as long as our arms let us... come on Reunion in 2059 - ha!

This was the first fun reunion event I was able to do since I got hit with the plague... I made the most of it but passed out every night at 10pm. Well, ALMOST every night!!

This is Amy... a friend I've had forever and I swear, I lived at her house for a few years. Her mom Sharon and Dad Louie are another set of parent for me!! Tristan was so sick but still such a trooper!!

same except we add Missy Commesso!

And Karen came - wuhooooooooooooooooooooooooooo! She would NEVER have let my child be in that state and not see him!

She and her friend Michelle brought Tristan a sweet little gift... he loved it!

This is Holtie and Ya-Ya Debbie

Ya-Ya Chrissy!! Not sure where Josh is but her hubby has been my friend FOREVER! Love you Josh and of course YOU Meyers!!

YA-Ya Lisa and her hubby...Thad... Daddy looooooooooooves Thad - I think we'll be visiting Atlanta A LOT!!

Ya-Ya Tracy.... Mommy's best friend since she was 5!!

Ya Ya Lisa and Ann Marie........... oh I go waaaaaaaaaay back with Bean too - rollerskating days! WUHOOOOOOOOOOOO - you little boogie breaker you - Ann Marie!!

Ya Ya Treva and Ya Ya Nancy.......... oh and Treva's new little one - LUCY!!!

The Bandits back together again!!

Ya-Ya Jenny............ she's the much thinner version of me :)

In all seriousness if I had to pick anyone on the planet that I am most like - it's Jenny. Oh how I love her (poor little sick Tristan!)

Jen and her daughter Reese..... ADORABLE!

Me n the gang!

And of course - the final pyramid! Between that and the head banging I did... my neck is SORE!

Holt golfed on Saturday morning. I was off to see Aunt Trisha. Because we were sick, we couldn't see her until we were on antibiotics for a few days.

Holt, Jenny and Becky - these girls looooooooooooooooooove Holt!!

Pookie took care of Holtie and Holtie pulled some serious pranks!

felt bad ... like that Holt was bored... does he LOOK bored to YOU? I think not.......

Holt and my crew..... I'm told he fits right in...imagine that!!

I went out for ONE drink on Thursday............ then straight to bed!

My mom and I took a quick walk around Hoopes Park... So many memories there and now one more to add to it!!

Me n my man!

Here are the pics from my Aunt Trisha's house... it was SO nice to see her and she FINALLY met Mr. Cheeks!!

She wasn't supposed to hold him because of her surgery and she DEFINITELY shouldn't get anywhere near me... she hugged and kissed me and balanced Tristan on her leg. She couldn't do it... (I don't blame you, I would have done the same!!)

Aw, the Nugget and his Aunt Trisha!

Grandma gets another squeeze from the tired little boy!

He was soooooooooooooo sick of the BOOGER SUCKER... oops.... wonder who operated that? Hmmmmmmmmmmmm

Tristan met some of his cousins!! Sophia, Christine and Nicholas

OH and I couldn't forget this... Holt in between golf attire and "dancin' threads"

Again............ they just love him...........

Some of my girls - Tracy, Ann Marie, me, Sue and Amy

Sunday, we went to breakfast with my dad and I forgot to bring my camera. I was still SO sick........ but it was so fun to go and the place is filled with cow stuff so how could I NOT love it? Then, Holt and I headed to the Great Race...juuuust in time for a torrential downpour... so we went to Debbie's - she and Steve were having a party. So we stayed for a little bit then headed back to my mom's for my dad to come over for dinner.

I swear, I have been sick once a year and it's usually a doozie... THIS was a doozie. I just can't shake it. I could barely keep my eyes open. My dad stayed then said his goodbye's - Tristan had a bath and then in bed. Tummy full - check! Baby bathed and in bed - check! Packed - CHECK!

Date time!!! Holt and I were off to the drive in movies. I haven't been to one in years. So we got some hot chocolate, then drove in and snagged some popcorn and watched GI - Joe (great movie by the way). There was an awesome lightening storm and Holt loved every second of it.

On the way home... American called... flight........ CANCELED.

Uh oh.........

So Holt called and maneuvered our way onto UsAirways. WUHOOOOOOOOOOO

So 5am came VERY early today but we made it. Only to find ourselves in Philly with a 3 hour layover. Lord help me............ my son was OVER TIRED and it was a bit of a beating. Holt sat up from for the leg from Philly to DFW and I believe he watched a movie. I ... I sat in back and had a WONDERFUL woman who took turns holding, playing with and singing to Tristan to entertain him.

Kimmie and the kids picked us up and dropped us off home. I began to unpack and noticed that was NOT the luggage that Kimberlee May just gave me. Oh no no and when I opened it up, I was POSITIVE those weren't my clothes or shoes (UM NO WAY!) so I called Holt and he came back, snagged the bag, drove BACK to DFW and picked up the correct bag.

I loved being home with my family and friends but what a bummer to miss out on so much. Oh well, no sense in freaking out about it but I need ZERO drama the rest of the week.

if "you + life = drama"... please stay away at all costs.... I need a little free time.... wonder if that will happen... RVC is out tomorrow but Layman... is in. Happy Tuesday - ha!

I miss my friends and family SO much and while I'm happy to be home, there is just a little part of me that wishes I were still there doing life THERE, not here. I love you all - thanks for helping me make the most of my sickness!!

Thursday with Grandpa - and a quick trip to the Kinsons

2009-08-08T17:02:00.018-05:00

We woke up on Thursday and Tristan and I were NOT doing well. Our noses were like Niagara Falls and oh my oh my... I WAS SICK!

Here is Tristan with my sister... Aunt Kelly to him. We were hoping to get some sun but it was cold so we headed out

After he hung out with his cousin Zach of course...

then we popped over to the Poole's house to meet Aunt (Ya-Ya) Tracy (who refused to be photographed because she just got back from the lake with the Ya-Ya's)

So I snagged a shot of Kripper, Tracy's sister... who I've known most of my life and love!!

That night we headed over to Grandpa's house for Piccarillo's pizza and salad 0 MY FAVORITE AUBURN FOOD. Oh my gosh it was good.

Grandpa hanging with the little man....... one of my favorite pics of the week... too cute!

Then Grandpa fed the unhappy...then VERY happy little man!

See what I mean?

then Bubba was hangin' with Daddy.....

he was then prepped for his photo shoot... hee, hee

then he went to school and Grandpa taught him all about grass and leaves...

Then it was time for recess....(Cut me some slack, I was VERY sick and VERY ugly)

Flying lessons...

Then his riding lessons!

Food arrived.... we were pooped! And hungry!!

and needed a rest......

Finally it was time to go - Tristan was getting VERY tired. BUT my dad had a surprise... JUST... FOR... ME!!!

We drove through town and then past Weedsport only to come upon a farm with ....

drum roll please..........

ALPACAS! Never heard of them? Me either but they ROCK! I apologized for trespassing and they invited me in to pet them. ALL 22 OF THEM! Oh my gosh, I almost died I was so excited.

they have the BEST haircuts and are so stinkin' sweet and cute - unless they kick or spit on you but I didn't have that problem... they loved me.

I want the Alpaca that doesn't spit on you and I want it NOW!!!!! (name that movie - hee, hee)

the brown one was so curious and sweet - he followed me everywhere I go. I LOVED HIM!!

Hey Holt... I think Aslan and Simba would love him - what do you think Holtie? Hee, hee, hee

So I don't have pics but I mustered up enough energy to meet my sister and Lee for a drink then we went to meet the Ya-Ya's and the rest of my old friends at Tinkers. I had no voice, was chowing on Halls like there was no tomorrow. Sick, sick, sick. Tristan was home with my mom and he was still very sick too but his antibiotic was kicking in and he was getting better. Poor little man!!

Once again, I dragged my hubby back home and called it an early night. No more Ya-Ya's for me. :( So sad. But, there was always tomorrow - right? Right. Or so I'd hoped.

I have my pics on the other camera and I'm out of time so for now, this is all the blogging I can do. To be continued next Monday when I get back to Texas. Friday Tristan met ALL the Ya-Ya's and met all the friends from my class and even some of their kids. Then, we hit Tinkers for a whopping 2 hours. Today, we saw Aunt Trisha (Auntie T, you'll have to send me a few pics to post) and then tonight is our dinner dance. Holt went golfing with all of my friends today so it's been a long one for him. Tomorrow is breakfast with my mom and dad, then the Great Race, then I have a little surprise for my hubby as long as it doesn't rain. May the weather gods be on my side!!

Barber over......and out........

Yeaaaaaaaaaaah for family!!

2009-08-08T16:20:00.016-05:00

This is my step-sister - Tristan's Aunt Alleyne and her kids Maddy and Michael - they are just meeting their cousin Tristan. Alleyne and I when we were young played with a ton of Smurfs and bought each other some for Christmas.

She couldn't help but to get one for Tristan...

The Smurf and Baby big Bird became good pals... TOO CUTE! Oh and the hat.. it says class of '89 and it was an absolute coincidence... that I graduated in '89 and it's my 20-year reunion!

Here is Mr. T in his new hat. I could barely get him to smile because he was so sick. We went to the Dr. that morning and BAM - DOUBLE EAR INFECTION. Sucks. Oh and did I mention... I am sick as a dog too. Lovely....

Trying to get him to smile... NOT happening!!

My Aunt Jeanne and John arrived ready for my mom's fabulous food. My Aunt is absolutely IN LOVE with Tristan so she bee-lined straight for him. TOO CUTE!

Soon after Alleyne and the kids left.... Aunt Kelly came and holy cow, I thought she was going to eat him. She was SO excited to meet her nephew! She never thought she would be an Aunt because Lee's sister Flur lives in England and I'm not sure they are sure she will have kids. Never say never... Tristan is living proof of that!

Then Tristan hung out with Aunt Kelly and Uncle Lee...

and got some one-on-one time with our resident Brit ... and lee somehow brought out a smile from my sick little man.

Then... it was THAT time... Tristan tried his first (smashed up) meatball and some sauce.... my mom stood over the table saying "please don't spit it out, please don't spit it out" - it was hilarious...

HE LOVED IT - a TRUE ITALIAN!!!!

My sister and I laughed our butts off for about 20 minutes... it was greatness - I NEEDED to laugh - Thanks SISSY!!

Here's Holtie and my sis, mom and my almost 21 year old nephew Zach - WHERE HAS TIME GONE!? I remember him when he was Tristan's age. ugh

These two were great sports, we took about 20 of these pictures because I didn't have the memory stick in my camera. OOPS..hee, hee, hee

They got very serious...very quickly.. too cute! If Lee hadn't left so early - this would have been a threesome I can promise you that. My brother-in-law is nuts!

Well, the family packed off and headed home and my plans to head out to the lake to begin my Ya-Ya weekend failed. I was SO sick. SO SICK. I wasn't sure the z-pack was working but I knew that if I planned on doing ANYTHING with ANYONE this weekend... I needed sleep.

Poor Holt... Fun Day #1 comes to a screeching halt... to sleep we went. Boooooooooooooo

BUT - YEAAAAAAAAAAH for family!!!

PS - As I type this... My mom is giving Tristan a bath and it is so stinkin' fun to hear him SCREECHING with laughter and her too... music to my ears. My family is in love all over again!! Thank you Lord!

Ya know the saying.... the best laid plans.....

2009-08-08T16:00:00.007-05:00

Well, my plans blew up in my face!! On Sunday I took Tristan to the doctor to have his ears checked to be SURE he could fly. ears... awesome! WUHOOO!

Monday came and I was sneezing like crazy and when I picked Tristan up from daycare, so was he. Uh oh....

Tuesday morning came and ........... off to the airport we went. First flight is to Chicago.... well, that didn't go so well...someone was getting sick. OR someONES!!! I started to not feel so hot and by the time we landed I could see by Tristan's red eyes and runny nose that he was sick. back up in the air we went on the smallest plane on the planet. When Holt got in his seat he was physically STUCK and could not move. Somehow he ended up with his backpack, my purse and Tristan on his lap. ASLEEP...he didn't dare move. uh oh....

My Aunt Jeanne and Uncle John picked us up in Syracuse. They brought Tristan a baby Big Bird.... TOO CUTE! A picture is in tomorrow's blog...

Anyway, here they are when we all met up with my mom at her house.

Think they are happy to see him?

Grandpa soon followed and boy oh boy was he excited. My mom was the only one who has seen Tristan in person so my family was SO excited!

Here's me, Tristan, my dad and my mom.... proud grandparents!!

Then Tristan met my cat (well, now my mom's cat - thank you mom!!) - Storm...

Let me just tell you - I think my son is going to be an animal lover like me. He LOVES Storm and fusses until he can pet the kitty. It is TOO cute!

This is before Tristan went to bed, he said good night to his Grandpa and then hit the hay. it was a long day and my little man and I were both getting sick. Thankfully my mom had a z-pack for me or I swear, I would have been in the hospital. I had to get better... SO much to do with my friends.

Well, as I said, the best laid plans... I knew that night as I mentally prepared to meet my friends at the lake that this would be a not so great trip. I WAS SICK..........

Lo' and behold.... I decided that Tristan needed to go to the doc in the morning. CareNow... here we come in the morning. Ugh.

No lake for us... to bed we all went.

Until "tomorrow"...

The "straw" that broke the dogs back!

2009-08-01T13:01:00.004-05:00

My little guy the day after we brought him home...

Well, it's official... I've been semi scolded from my vet. Aslan has gained 20 pounds since last year. Ugh... B-A-D. I'm ashamed of myself for letting my dog get fat... I know better. This is what he looked like at 105... that is a healthy weight for him. Luckily for all of us... I can't find my camera for a recent snapshot (or two, maybe he can't fit in one.. *SIGH*)

My vet kindly reminded me not to confuse love with food... oh isn't that true for we as humans as well. *Sigh #2. I don't even LIKE to eat.. if there were a pill to be full, I'd take it.

So, I'm putting it on "paper" .... I'm committing to walk my dog every night. It's gonna suck because I have committed to running 4 days a week too because I need to lose 10-15 lbs. It was so much easier when I was playing soccer!

Anyway, we are gearing up to head back to NY. We have a new dog walker - her name is Diana and she will be walking the dogs twice a day while we are gone. It'll be good... it'll start a new habit that Aslan will NOT let me quit. When he likes something, he gets radar (like 5am and 5pm feedings - he KNOWS what time it is because he whines at those hours even on Saturdays!!) so I'll have to take him. Simba..heck - he's up for anything.

We are starting to pack and prepare for Tristan to meet the rest of his family. Aunt Jeanne, you will promptly be frisked before you leave my mom's house... we are wise to your ways. Tee, hee, hee and I know how excited everyone is... the little man is too for sure. We'll have to talk about Skyping more too now that my entire family can. It's important for Tristan to know his family and until we are in driving distance... Skyping will have to do.

Connie is on her way over to give Tristan goodbye kisses...she won't see him for 10 days and obviously, that is going over like a fart in church... I love that saying... makes me laugh-out-loud every time I say it.

My Auntie T is doing quite well and Lester had her party yesterday so both of those things makes my heart happy. EE is out of surgery and hopefully feeling better today than she did the last couple of days. Still... my mantra remains...cancer SUCKS!

Ok, off to shower and start the afternoon... I LOVE SATURDAYS!! Maybe I'll start planning our RV trip with the Smithwick's next year... THAT is gonna rock.........

Here's to thinner days *CHEERS*

Tristan (FINALLY) meets Carter... well, in person that is!

2009-07-27T21:55:00.010-05:00

So... this is Durby... Kristin that is. She and I worked together at Balfour Beatty. Oh how I miss her! She found out she was preggers and after the shock I mocked her .... little did I know... dum, duh, dum, dum, DUMB!!! I was preggers too.

Kristin met Tristan a while back so to her surprise, he's grown, just a touch!

This is her little munchkin... Carter. Tristan and Carter - met... well, belly met... I mean they were both sloshing around wreaking havoc on our ribs so in some way they have a sneaky little connection that we will never quite understand.

Carter and Mommy........ TOO CUTE!!

This is the boys with Trenton, Durb's older son. He's 5 and he's a heart breaker and if I could get away with it... I'd steal him. The kid will chat you up about anything. He's FABULOUS... last time I met him he wanted to know if I had a boyfriend. Kristin broke his heart and told him I was married. Thanks a lot Durb, way to ruin my future prospects!

So the boys were hangin.... and I was feeding Tristan some sweet potatoes. Carter saw it and crawled right over. He's no dummy... he knew what was in that plastic container!!!

Tristan, in his normal way was like "food, what food? Who cares... I like this shiny SPOON!"

Tristan was in a bit of a food coma I think... but Carter... he's no dummy, he was looking for a container FULL of food... not with scraps!

Durb kinda reminded Carter "You just ate honey"... so he decided that the "empty" container didn't look so empty after all. I mean, come on, look at those thighs... then look at my skinny little light weight. Yes, Carter is almost 2 1/2 months older than Tristan but my little man doesn't eat... and in this photo - it shows!! He does love the spoon though! LOL~

They are both working on their own "problems here" Tristan is juuuust mastering getting the spoon into his mouth but when he got it in... it was ... well.. BORING... NO FOOD!

By this point, if I snapped one more picture, they were both going to lose it. This was the end of our play date... hugs were exchanged... then into the car we went. Tristan passed out the moment he got into my hot stinkin' car... I don't have air in the back... POOR BUBBA!

I miss you Durb, great seeing you, kissin' on your kids and let's do that more often... my house... SOON!! xoxoxoxoxo

DA DA!!!

2009-07-26T18:40:00.004-05:00

IT'S DARK BUT YOU CAN HEAR - WUHOOOOOOOO

Off to swim!!

2009-07-25T16:14:00.003-05:00

YIPPPPEEEE - LET'S GO SWIMMING!!

My daddy is gonna go to Big Lots and buy me my own pool...

but for now we are pool hoppin' - hee, hee, hee. Next time will be at my Aunt Kelly's house in NY!

I will take a video while we are home...it's pretty dang cute!!!

He crashed the second we got in the car.....I have another water lover on my hands!!

A lotta life and a little tattoo

2009-07-24T19:35:00.002-05:00

Well, today marks the 5th VERY hard phone call I've received this week. One more set of friends that are headed for divorce. Holt and I are hoping that this is just a "thing" that can be worked out but SHEESH... ENOUGH ALREADY!

We have SO many friends that are struggling...heck, we are struggling. Holt and I rarely have BAD days... but we had one and we're working it out. That's what I love about us. When it's icky... it's ICKY BUT I know he's not going anywhere. I'm sure there are moments where he thinks "what have I gotten myself into with this crazy chick" BUT even when he's mad at at his wits end, he still makes sure that I know he loves me. I'm not so good at that, I like him to "suffer" a little but I force myself to apologize because I DO mean it and I DO want to but I'm horribly stubborn. Usually though, the good in me wins out.

My Aunt had surgery on Tuesday. She is doing SO well... except for today... they had to take her back in and do a little damage control. I know she's ok but I just HATE that she had to have surgery... again... 2 days later. YUCK! She was supposed to go home today... oh well, I guess maybe tomorrow. This is her Caring Bridge site that I am writing. I have to tone it down a touch though... she's a touch more... well, careful with her writing than I am naturally. As you know, I'm a blabber. https://www.caringbridge.org/visit/trishapanarites

My friend Leslie is doing well... she's just gearing up for more "stuff" to be done. Her birthday is comin' up and they are throwing her a big old party. I WANNA GO!! Boooo! Well, I can't because I'll be in Charleston in a few months and I can't afford another trip. Sad to miss BUT hoping that God's timing is involved in this and that when I DO go... it's the perfect time for me to see her. Her site is linked here... Warriors Wear Pink... you should read her writing - it's amazing. Her latest post got me thinking... I've been talkin' about a tattoo for years... I've been on a search for the perfect one... and I still don't know - BUT...

I'm getting one. I'm getting one soon. I saw one on my friend Wendy, it's under her hair on the back of her neck and it rocks. I mean, the bad thing is I won't be able to see it but it's a cool place to get one. There are MANY things that mean a lot to me... like drama faces... but all that I've seen are freaky. I love my son and have toyed with something about him - if he were from another country I would soooo steal Angelina Jolie's idea and get his longitude/latitude... I think that rocks. A cross has always been something I wanted. I really, really wanted one with a crown of thorns and I still may get that but some of them are creepy. So I'm on a hunt and I'm gonna get one. Maybe I'll find the perfect one that reveals the drama of me... all 38 years (who's counting) - I'm not sure if ONE thing can portray that but know... I'm looking and I'm goin' for it. Warriors Wear Ink... I'm on the front line Lester... so I'm joining you very, very soon!

Off to journal, think and pray... my mind is filled with concern for so many, my heart is broken because I miss my friends so much and wish I were closer. It literally HURTS some days because while I love my friends here... I have a heart-BOND with a few of you that are miles and miles away and it's days like today that I'd give ANYTHING... ok, not ANYTHING but close to it... to be with you - just sitting, saying nothing, and feeling COMPLETELY understood.

Off to have a glass of red wine... cheers to you Arlene, Lester, Jenny, Tracy x2, Chrissy, Nancy, Treva, Lisa, Debbie, Ginger, Liz, Deb, Margie, Audi, Nat, Bub, Stacy, Sarah, MiBo, Ash, Brig, Carol... and so many more... with all of my heart... I MISS YOU........

SPECIAL DELIVERY!!!

2009-07-24T19:27:00.005-05:00

My Auntie Trisha is in the hospital.....

So Tristan thought he could crawl into the box and send himself to her....

I told him that he couldn't and he was VERY, VERY sad....

But I explained that we'd be going to NY VERY soon and he can give her kisses and hugs and fly on a plane vs in a box....

I think he's ok with that now... WHEW!! He can't wait to see you all in NY... he loves his Yankee family!!

Muuuuah! xoxoxoxo

Oopps..pictures from Connie's bday lunch

2009-07-24T19:25:00.006-05:00

Meant to include..sorry!

Bad quality from my phone... I'll be fixing the resolution SOON!

Happy Birthday Auntie Connie

2009-07-24T19:14:00.002-05:00

So Tristan had his first photo shoot as you know....

Because he was voted CUTEST BABY EVER... (ok, my words, not Balfour Beatty's) he got a $50 gift card... JUST in time for Auntie Connie's birthday! So Tristan gave her a Happy 1st Birthday card (ya know... first year that he's KNOWN Connie) and then made her this little goodie basket. Isn't my little man creative?! Hope you can see what's in there - his picture and a saying is on EVERY SINGLE thing... HILARIOUS!

Happy Birthday CONNIE!!!!

HE WON!!

2009-07-20T10:28:00.002-05:00

This will be framed... Tristan's first photo shoot - WINNER!!!!

And Tristan makes 3 (well...5 actually)

New blog

Train for Da Da...um, I mean Mr. T :)

John Deer ATV Baby!!!

He gets another lion - tee, hee, hee

Guns for Da Da - Game on!!!!

FIRST STEPS!!!!!

Cake face

Time with Grandpa

snuggle time

From Tristan to his cousin!

Early birthday in NY

Christmas videos

T's new Big Boy Chair

Happy First Birthday Nugget!

Tomorrow my heart will rejoice...and break

He WON - AGAIN!!!

BBC Photo shoot

I was Photo Shop-ped in!

Random shots from Grandpa

Tristan's "FIRST" birthday... almost

Sad...but only pics I have from Christmas day!!

Off to see Auntie T

Christmas Eve Post....

Merry Christmas!!

Christmas with the Olivers!!

Texas sledding!

Silly Nugget

Welcome to the family Christmas!!!

Let's Go Cowyboys!

I don't know how my boy did it...

Sick but snuggly

Hey Aunt Trisha... Hey Grandma!?

Daddy set up the train from Grandpa!

Silly video

Hiiiiiiiiiiiicuup!

And I forgot to mention

Auntie Margie is here for a visit!

WHERE has 10 months gone!?

Aunt Tracy makes the Auburn Hall of Fame....

Last one....

For the family.......

Video silliness

We FINALLY have a computer again!

Daddy chaser!

Pumpkin patch fun!

We're having a hard time with veggies!

Can I get a...............

Pssssssssssssssssst!

9 months old....WOW

Have you seen my rattle?

Crawl...out the door!

MiBo!!

Hubba.... Bubba?

Happy Birthday Holtie AND Baby Hill!

These are silly and boring...

Angie........... YOU are amazing........WOW...

Happy Halloween Dad!!

This is so fun!

More pics of my cute face!

Sweet moments

My boys and their bottles....

Let me outta here!!!

Time to head back to Dallas... ha! Or so we thought...

Lester, Ash and the gang!

Church and more!

Goooooooooooolie!

Charleston fun

Tristan + sand is..um...sticky!

Aaaaaaaaaaaaaah, Charleston!

Charleston stories will come...

8 months and counting...

I REALLY need 5 lb handweights......

A word from our CHAIR-man

the verdict is in.......

Last one (for today.........)

More videos

just more kinda boring bouncing... for the grandparents!

To crawl or not to crawl...that is the question!

Giggles