Christmas dinner at the Phillips'
My mantel. I love the look of a burning fireplace at Christmas! So awesome and John enjoyed every minute of making a fire.
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
December 2010
Christmas was wonderful! We had my parents up from North Carolina, Jacquie and PJ's family from Maryland, Janelle and Josh, and John's parents. Christmas morning was wonderful, although my house is still not quite large enough to accommodate everyone around the living area. We made a wonderful breakfast with pancakes, french toast, meat, and of course, Carol's famous egg casserole. It was wonderful! Unfortunately, Andrew had gotten sick early in the week and never fully recovered. We missed a lot of our normal Christmas Eve parties and gatherings because he was throwing up. It was awful. Needless to say, he didn't enjoy the wonderful food we did, but he loved his Pedalyte and crackers. Bless his heart. He was so good, just wanting to be held most of the time, which didn't bother anyone.
Christmas dinner at the Phillips'
My mantel. I love the look of a burning fireplace at Christmas! So awesome and John enjoyed every minute of making a fire.
Christmas dinner at the Phillips'
My mantel. I love the look of a burning fireplace at Christmas! So awesome and John enjoyed every minute of making a fire.
Thursday, December 16, 2010
Holiday Get-up
A gift arrived for AJ from Mia and PapPap. A pre-recorded book about the miracle of Christmas. AJ loved it! He was all smiles and super talkative when we flipped the pages and heard Mia and PapPap's voices.
AJ's first haircut. Yes, there was enough hair to cut. It was super long and fine. The minute the hairdresser cut it and would turn around to put it in a ziplock, the hair would just 'float' away it was so fine. Thankfully, we have enough blond hair to cherish this memory. He was again, super good and I didn't have to use my bag of tricks... AKA: Yogurt Puffs
O' Christmas Tree
On Sunday, 12/5, we went on a hunt for our family Christmas tree. We meet about 15 people for breakfast (people that I work with) and headed to Elizabeth Farms. We took a horse drawn wagon ride out to the fields to find our perfect tree. AJ had a wonderful time watching all the other kids and he was fascinated with the horses as well.
Our baby all tuckered out on the ride in from the fields. He was such a great boy, but the gentle bouncing of the wagon wheels put him right to sleep.
Merry Christmas!
Our baby all tuckered out on the ride in from the fields. He was such a great boy, but the gentle bouncing of the wagon wheels put him right to sleep.
Merry Christmas!
First Haircut
My grandmother recently had surgery on the vessels surrounding her heart. Because she will now be out of commission for 6-8 weeks, our family has picked up some of the slack of her yearly sand tart making. She cancelled most of her orders (she usually makes hundreds of dozens) but still had a commitment to bake for the holiday bazaar. We were all clueless for the most part, but with my grandma giving instructions from the kitchen table, we did fairly well. I must say, we only burned a few and we worked well together. Thanks to my grandpa for making all the dough the night before.
AJ eating his first sand tart
My lovely Christmas decorations. I was sooo excited to finally have a mantel to decorate. I loved it!
AJ eating his first sand tart
My lovely Christmas decorations. I was sooo excited to finally have a mantel to decorate. I loved it!
Thanksgiving
Our Thanksgiving was spent with me having being able to have off work! YEH! It saved me tons of sleep so I had even more energy to out Black Friday shopping! My parents came up from NC for a few days and stayed with us. From there, we hung out and made our journey to relative's homes for a wonderful dinner. My aunt and uncle did a great job and so did Janelle. She is actually becoming quite the little cook, as she hosted Thanksgiving last year as well.
AJ had his first taste of all the good treats. He loved everything from the turkey down to the cranberry relish at the Simpson's. He was such a good boy and did a wonderful job at the table while at the adults were eating. I think we'll bring him back next year... :)
I have had this winter jacket for him which I really have yet to use. It's too bulky to put it on while he is in the car seat, so to be honest, I rarely use it. This picture just reminds me of the little boy from A Christmas Story. He truly couldn't put his arms down. Poor baby....
AJ had a blast helping me search through Black Friday ads. You better believe I had all my grounds covered and a strategic plan for the morning. This was also the first year Kohls opened at 3 am. It wasn't a problem for me as I wake up at 1am to get ready for work, but you could tell Janelle was hurting a little. This was her first year and I think she was pretty impressed with the deals she got. Lines moved super quick and I got most of my shopping accomplished.
My vehicle after 6 hours of shopping. I still wanted to go back for more, but I think John and my dad were getting a little antsy at home with AJ. Overall, we had an awesome time together.
AJ had his first taste of all the good treats. He loved everything from the turkey down to the cranberry relish at the Simpson's. He was such a good boy and did a wonderful job at the table while at the adults were eating. I think we'll bring him back next year... :)
I have had this winter jacket for him which I really have yet to use. It's too bulky to put it on while he is in the car seat, so to be honest, I rarely use it. This picture just reminds me of the little boy from A Christmas Story. He truly couldn't put his arms down. Poor baby....
AJ had a blast helping me search through Black Friday ads. You better believe I had all my grounds covered and a strategic plan for the morning. This was also the first year Kohls opened at 3 am. It wasn't a problem for me as I wake up at 1am to get ready for work, but you could tell Janelle was hurting a little. This was her first year and I think she was pretty impressed with the deals she got. Lines moved super quick and I got most of my shopping accomplished.
My vehicle after 6 hours of shopping. I still wanted to go back for more, but I think John and my dad were getting a little antsy at home with AJ. Overall, we had an awesome time together.
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
September-October
2 weeks before out big move, our basement flooded. This time, it was a disaster! The sump pump was not installed correctly and the water just rose as it flooded down rain outside. Thankfully, we had some insurance for the sump pump and were refunded only a little. My worst devastation, our wedding album. Everything else is just "materialistic," but our wedding album is all our memories. Hopefully because it was a digital album, we will be able to order another. :(
Farm show season again! LOVE IT! Unfortunately, we only went once this year because of the cold weather. AJ had the opportunity to see all the animals, I have the opportunity to get warm toasted subs, and John got a dreamy glimspe at the John Deer epiqument. Andrew seemed to enjoy all the animals except the huge pigs, which really surprised me. He knows what a pig sounds like, but I guess they were a lot bigger behind the cage. We also got to see the baby pigs born only 2 days before.
AJ has really started to crawl and scoot to wherever he wants to go. To reward his big accomplishment, John and I ventured to Toys R Us. What an ordeal! We got AJ a rockin' band set that he can sit at or push. It makes tons of noise and occupies him forever. When he showed it to him at the store, he got the biggest smile on his face. Softy dad, gave it and wanted to buy the whole store. What a change in roles for him! I wish I could upload the video of him playing with this toy, but the picture will have to speak for itself.
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Hello Garage Sale Find :)
AJ and I have become a tad-bit addicted to garage sales. John has always commented that his goal would be to NEVER have a garage sale, but I don't believe that will ever happen. After a quick scope of the newspaper, AJ and I headed out on Thursday in search of some good deals. I am proud to say I found this slightly used jumper for $4! AJ loves it! We don't have door frames in our lower level, so I was in search of a stationary bouncer in particular. Thankfully I found it and it wasn't outrageously priced.
I also have been making my own baby food ever since AJ starting eating with the spoon. I have tried fruits and vegetables and have recently tried experimenting with meats and fruit/veggie mixtures. So far, he has enjoyed everything I've made. Thank goodness he is not a picky eater like his father. Anyway, I found a box of ice-cube trays for $2, which I just had to have. It makes life so much easier when you have multiple of these for freezing foods. They are they perfect size 1 oz portions. I'm sure John had a laugh when I came home with this box.
Watching me wash dishes. He's so happy :)
Growing up so fast. I'll soon need to get him his own toothbrush!
Helping mom cook baby food, while dad made a huge pot of chicken corn noodle soup! YUM!
AJ and I have become a tad-bit addicted to garage sales. John has always commented that his goal would be to NEVER have a garage sale, but I don't believe that will ever happen. After a quick scope of the newspaper, AJ and I headed out on Thursday in search of some good deals. I am proud to say I found this slightly used jumper for $4! AJ loves it! We don't have door frames in our lower level, so I was in search of a stationary bouncer in particular. Thankfully I found it and it wasn't outrageously priced.
I also have been making my own baby food ever since AJ starting eating with the spoon. I have tried fruits and vegetables and have recently tried experimenting with meats and fruit/veggie mixtures. So far, he has enjoyed everything I've made. Thank goodness he is not a picky eater like his father. Anyway, I found a box of ice-cube trays for $2, which I just had to have. It makes life so much easier when you have multiple of these for freezing foods. They are they perfect size 1 oz portions. I'm sure John had a laugh when I came home with this box.
Watching me wash dishes. He's so happy :)
Growing up so fast. I'll soon need to get him his own toothbrush!
Helping mom cook baby food, while dad made a huge pot of chicken corn noodle soup! YUM!
Top Sail, NC
Sept. 8-12, 2010
Since my parents have moved to NC in June, I had yet to make the trip "down south." I decided I would go following a 12 hour shift of working and stay a couple of days. John was unable to take off work unfortunately, so my grandmother decided she would tag along. (In all actuality, John basically forced her to come so I would have someone to keep me awake).
My grandma, AJ, and I left on Wednesday around 10:30pm for the 8 hour road trip South. We stopped only once to stretch our legs and get a $1 cheeseburger from McDonalds. (they are not as good at 1AM as they are for lunch). AJ didn't budge the whole ride until we were about 5 miles from my parents place. My grandma kept me awake as I rode the rubble strips, hearing about how she met my grandfather, accidents my aunts had as kids, etc.
We finally made it to NC around 6am and headed right to bed. Thankfully, my parents took AJ and we were able to sleep until 9. Then, off to the beach for a fun filled 1st day!
AJ loved the beach. He fell asleep in a little sunhut I borrowed from a friend and he played in the mini pools created by the ocean. The water was crystal clear! We were out about 100 yards, up only to our waists, and we were still able to see our feet. It was very cool as schools of fish swam all around us too.
One night, we sat along the beach and went fishing. I caught 3 little fish, well actually, I caught 2. One just happened to flop up on the beach following my fishing line as I reeled it in.
My dad and AJ in their matching fishing hats :)
A beautifully created "chapel" which laid under the fishing pier. It was so cool when the waves splashed along the sides.
Aj and my mom. He is not too happy in this picture. This was one of our last days at the beach and he was starting to get cranky. It was fun, and interesting, watching my parents try to capture and copy AJ's footprint in the sand. The end product got pretty cool. Their first souvenir for their home.
My grandma and I at dinner. AJ LOVED chewing on hard rolls; I think it helped his gums and teething.
Playing "Aces Away."
Visiting the Sea Turtle Hospital. (actually a 2 car garage). It is a volunteer run hospital where turtles are rescued following boating accidents, cruel humans, etc. There were a total of 23 turtles there this day, all of which were in large swimming pools. It was amazing to hear what the people are doing for these turtles in order to get them back in the water. Did you ever think you'd hear of turtle physical therapy or a swim test? Well, believe it! My little "hatchling" LOVED the turtles! Grandma even bought him a tee-shirt and stuffed animal! And he got to meet Jean Beasley, founder of the hospital.
AJ LOVED the jeep rides! Guess we know what his first car might be?!
Touring battle ships and visiting Wilmington. It was so pretty!
Glass blowing factory
Always thinking of you dad :)
Aunt Pam and AJ on the beach.
"Can't me me naked for too long Mia and PapPap." -- should have spoke sooner AJ; right before he peed all over the bed spread.
Since my parents have moved to NC in June, I had yet to make the trip "down south." I decided I would go following a 12 hour shift of working and stay a couple of days. John was unable to take off work unfortunately, so my grandmother decided she would tag along. (In all actuality, John basically forced her to come so I would have someone to keep me awake).
My grandma, AJ, and I left on Wednesday around 10:30pm for the 8 hour road trip South. We stopped only once to stretch our legs and get a $1 cheeseburger from McDonalds. (they are not as good at 1AM as they are for lunch). AJ didn't budge the whole ride until we were about 5 miles from my parents place. My grandma kept me awake as I rode the rubble strips, hearing about how she met my grandfather, accidents my aunts had as kids, etc.
We finally made it to NC around 6am and headed right to bed. Thankfully, my parents took AJ and we were able to sleep until 9. Then, off to the beach for a fun filled 1st day!
AJ loved the beach. He fell asleep in a little sunhut I borrowed from a friend and he played in the mini pools created by the ocean. The water was crystal clear! We were out about 100 yards, up only to our waists, and we were still able to see our feet. It was very cool as schools of fish swam all around us too.
One night, we sat along the beach and went fishing. I caught 3 little fish, well actually, I caught 2. One just happened to flop up on the beach following my fishing line as I reeled it in.
My dad and AJ in their matching fishing hats :)
A beautifully created "chapel" which laid under the fishing pier. It was so cool when the waves splashed along the sides.
Aj and my mom. He is not too happy in this picture. This was one of our last days at the beach and he was starting to get cranky. It was fun, and interesting, watching my parents try to capture and copy AJ's footprint in the sand. The end product got pretty cool. Their first souvenir for their home.
My grandma and I at dinner. AJ LOVED chewing on hard rolls; I think it helped his gums and teething.
Playing "Aces Away."
Visiting the Sea Turtle Hospital. (actually a 2 car garage). It is a volunteer run hospital where turtles are rescued following boating accidents, cruel humans, etc. There were a total of 23 turtles there this day, all of which were in large swimming pools. It was amazing to hear what the people are doing for these turtles in order to get them back in the water. Did you ever think you'd hear of turtle physical therapy or a swim test? Well, believe it! My little "hatchling" LOVED the turtles! Grandma even bought him a tee-shirt and stuffed animal! And he got to meet Jean Beasley, founder of the hospital.
AJ LOVED the jeep rides! Guess we know what his first car might be?!
Touring battle ships and visiting Wilmington. It was so pretty!
Glass blowing factory
Always thinking of you dad :)
Aunt Pam and AJ on the beach.
"Can't me me naked for too long Mia and PapPap." -- should have spoke sooner AJ; right before he peed all over the bed spread.
Saturday, September 25, 2010
Family Day :)
Saturday, in the park....
"Is this suppose to be fun?"
Watching the ducks at Lititz Springs Park.
This was AJ's first time actually seeing the ducks and paying attention to our town-about day. We decided to go the farmers market in Lititz, but after a long, much needed visit with friends, we missed it. (There's always next weekend). We walked around Lititz, went to lunch, Wilber Chocolate (for some Wilber Buds of course) and fed the ducks. AJ didn't take to the swing too much and I'm sure people were around us talking about how crazy John and I were to put a baby in a swing. We didn't know, and AJ didn't fuss. There's a first time for everything I guess.
AJ loved feeding the ducks. He couldn't wait to get out of his stroller and be closer to the ground. One man actually came over and shared his corn for feeding so AJ could see the ducks closer. Over all, we had a awesome day, and I would definitely do it again!
"Is this suppose to be fun?"
Watching the ducks at Lititz Springs Park.
This was AJ's first time actually seeing the ducks and paying attention to our town-about day. We decided to go the farmers market in Lititz, but after a long, much needed visit with friends, we missed it. (There's always next weekend). We walked around Lititz, went to lunch, Wilber Chocolate (for some Wilber Buds of course) and fed the ducks. AJ didn't take to the swing too much and I'm sure people were around us talking about how crazy John and I were to put a baby in a swing. We didn't know, and AJ didn't fuss. There's a first time for everything I guess.
AJ loved feeding the ducks. He couldn't wait to get out of his stroller and be closer to the ground. One man actually came over and shared his corn for feeding so AJ could see the ducks closer. Over all, we had a awesome day, and I would definitely do it again!
Saturday, September 04, 2010
Go M. C.
Last night was AJ's first football game, at Hershey Park Stadium of all places! Manheim played Lower Dolphin and won 47-10. It was quite an interesting and long day for me, as I had been up since 1am due to working. I picked AJ up at Nan and Grandpa's around 4ish and we went home to get mentally prepared for the game... YEH RIGHT! We went home to shower, pack bags and run around like crazy. I wasn't sure how to pack or what extra clothing to bring for him.
Due the game, we sat almost right behind the band and AJ was fascinated every time they played any fight song. He watched the band and seemed to be watching the game as he lounged in the "mom chair." (AKA: my lap). Daddy's kicker was doing great and everyone was lovin' AJ. He was so well behaved. During the last quarter, Nan took AJ and they went under the bleachers as the announcer stated a strong rain was quickly moving towards Hershey. Strong rain wasn't even close to what came through. Terental downpour was more like it. Just about everyone was soaked! But we had fun.
AJ ended up not going to bed until about 1030 pm, which his usual bedtime is around 8ish. The minute I laid him down, I knew it was going to be a rough night. His nose was so congested, and he couldn't really breathe easily through it. We were up and down since 2 am. I ended up sleeping between the rocking chair and couch with AJ on my chest. It was the only thing I could do at that time in the morning to keep him upright. Poor little guy :( Needless to say, he still has a runny nose today. Maybe due to teething, I'm not sure? Hopefully this week will be better as we are heading to NC! YEH!
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