I'm sure over the last couple of years you all have heard me mention Denise's name once or twice. She was Avery's fabulous nanny during the year I went back to work. And although she's incredible with kids, her real passion lies with cooking. Among the many cooking-related specialties she offers (i.e. Cooking Classes, Catered Events, etc.) our favorite has to be the "Fresh Meal Service"! We've recently taken advantage of this since I decided to pack up our kitchen...perhaps prematurely. Not to mention, it's not always easy to find two free hands for cooking with two little ones.
Enter Denise.
Her food is so delicious. Truly. Take a look if you're ever looking for homemade meals on the nights you just don't feel like cooking (or for any other service she offers!).
I think we are going to get used to this!!!!!!
Thursday, August 30, 2012
Happenings...
Although yesterday was pretty low-key, today was quite the opposite. It was a fun day with some unexpected, happy elements included! For one, I made an impromptu visit to my old bosses, Jim & Ash and how wonderful it was to see them! Although we keep in touch often, it was so nice to visit in person and catch up like old times. Well, not exactly. We were interrupted by a lot of visitors once they noticed me back in the cubes and of course, I can't complain about that! I love the people I worked with! Especially my "Neighbs" - Andrew & Barry!
Then a quick trip to 57th to finalize some custom baby gates. All the awhile, little Warner tagged along with me and of course, was perfectly behaved.
My mom was sweet enough to watch Avery all morning so I could run my errands. The moment Avery saw her she lit up and was ready to dance! Good thing my mom is full of energy because Avery uses every ounce of it. I came home and she was in the best mood! After all, she got to spend the morning with Gramzie :)
And another exciting surprise for the day?! Tahlia came to visit! She's had a work conference in town and kindly spent her free afternoon with us! I loved having a moment to catch up with her - she always has interesting stories to tell. Naturally, I was at the edge of my seat for all of them. I swear, she could make a story about a snail sound riveting! Warner enjoyed having Tahlia around so much that he decided to forgo his afternoon nap. He apparently loved her stories as much as I did!
Some other happenings this week...
Then a quick trip to 57th to finalize some custom baby gates. All the awhile, little Warner tagged along with me and of course, was perfectly behaved.
My mom was sweet enough to watch Avery all morning so I could run my errands. The moment Avery saw her she lit up and was ready to dance! Good thing my mom is full of energy because Avery uses every ounce of it. I came home and she was in the best mood! After all, she got to spend the morning with Gramzie :)
And another exciting surprise for the day?! Tahlia came to visit! She's had a work conference in town and kindly spent her free afternoon with us! I loved having a moment to catch up with her - she always has interesting stories to tell. Naturally, I was at the edge of my seat for all of them. I swear, she could make a story about a snail sound riveting! Warner enjoyed having Tahlia around so much that he decided to forgo his afternoon nap. He apparently loved her stories as much as I did!
Some other happenings this week...
"My lack of bottles has made me one very hungry girl. I ate 3.5 jars in one sitting!" |
"Love this guy - come in for the real thing!" |
Sitting up. At least long enough for me to take this picture! |
Tuesday, August 28, 2012
So close I can taste it.
Ohhhh Project 57! You sure have turned out to be quite the project! One that I know will be well worth the wait but a wait that was 6 months longer than we expected! I have my opinions on the cause of such delay but they're not necessary sharing on here. The completion is within reach and our official move is right around the corner. I think. After all, I've been wrong on this one before. ;)
My Dad, Ann, Chris and I took our first official load of boxes over to the house today and piled them high in the garage. Other milestones accomplished today? Power - on! A/C - on! Both of which are big deals. There is a really cool story behind the A/C installation (one too long to tell) but makes me very thankful and inspired by the amazing people I have in my life.
Here's a little sneak peak on some updates. I am so hoping to be in within a week to a week & a half. Fingers crossed. And please do not interpret my impatience for a lack of appreciation. I absolutely love how it's turned out and cannot wait to really settle in! Incredibly exciting!...
My Dad, Ann, Chris and I took our first official load of boxes over to the house today and piled them high in the garage. Other milestones accomplished today? Power - on! A/C - on! Both of which are big deals. There is a really cool story behind the A/C installation (one too long to tell) but makes me very thankful and inspired by the amazing people I have in my life.
Here's a little sneak peak on some updates. I am so hoping to be in within a week to a week & a half. Fingers crossed. And please do not interpret my impatience for a lack of appreciation. I absolutely love how it's turned out and cannot wait to really settle in! Incredibly exciting!...
Chris & Dad installing the mailbox in 1 million degree weather!!!! |
The start of my chalkboard project designed by the incredible Kristin! Thanks for all the measuring Dad! |
Stairwell ready for paint! |
Misson: Bottle Weaning. Mission: Success.
It is safe to say that Avery has officially been weaned from the bottle!
She did not seem ready to let go of her emotional attachment to her bottle when our doctor matter-of-factly suggested it at her 12 month appointment. And to be honest, I don't think I was either. It's had its direct benefits to me also and frankly, they weren't easy to say goodbye to.
Within a month's time, the Morrison household faced a lot of extra tears, temper tantrums and money wasted on sippy cups that just didn't do the trick.
Grrrrrr.
Before we knew it, Warner was here and another non-ideal time to give up bottles.
But this last month I noticed an unexpected window of opportunity! Instead of stealing Warner's bottles for an added top off to hers, she would choose to share her own bottle with him! Yes, yes it's true! A sweet-hearted big sister and a little girl outgrowing an emotional clutch.
So last Monday I made up my mind and have stuck to it. Bottle count to date? ZERO. With little tears and next to no tantrums. The timing I feel......was perfect.
I know some moms face this transition with ease but it taught me to trust my instincts not as "a mom" but as "Avery's mom" and act accordingly. I will use this small but significant experience as a great learning tool for future parental obstacles. I have a feeling a few might creep up on me! ;)
And of course...way to go Avery!!
Juror #5.
Just when I thought life was getting pretty busy, Jury Duty called. It was the first time I've ever gone through the process and I must say, it was a lot better than I anticipated.
I did not like the time away from my kids and I did not like having to pay a sitter more than I would be making sitting on a jury (I'm still awaiting my $18.00 check). However, the experience was intriguing and one I was glad to have participated in. After all, it is my civic duty, right? ;)
Was it a waste of my time? Yes and no. But if you can accept the phrase "the bad guys ruin it for everyone", it serves as the foundation for that proclamation. Regardless, if I have any part in putting the rule breakers behind bars then...........cool! I'll take it. And rule breakers they were. When I found out the crime in question was less than 1 mile from my new house, it was difficult not to focus on a guilty verdict immediately. Don't worry, we got to that guilty verdict in just a few short hours.
Amongst that civic calling, we have had a pretty low key week trying to recover from the intensity of our vacation. Even still, we've been having fun and enjoying our days. Here's a little look at a few highlights!
I did not like the time away from my kids and I did not like having to pay a sitter more than I would be making sitting on a jury (I'm still awaiting my $18.00 check). However, the experience was intriguing and one I was glad to have participated in. After all, it is my civic duty, right? ;)
Was it a waste of my time? Yes and no. But if you can accept the phrase "the bad guys ruin it for everyone", it serves as the foundation for that proclamation. Regardless, if I have any part in putting the rule breakers behind bars then...........cool! I'll take it. And rule breakers they were. When I found out the crime in question was less than 1 mile from my new house, it was difficult not to focus on a guilty verdict immediately. Don't worry, we got to that guilty verdict in just a few short hours.
Amongst that civic calling, we have had a pretty low key week trying to recover from the intensity of our vacation. Even still, we've been having fun and enjoying our days. Here's a little look at a few highlights!
"Could I get a booster seat people??" |
Warner trying rice cereal for the first time. Not overly impressed! |
"Is this 2-ply?" |
"Yes. I really am this cute." |
"I know I don't look happy about it but trust me, I love my new books, Auntie Leona! Thank you!" |
Tuesday, August 21, 2012
Warner turns 4 months!
I know that I tend to be repetitive on these monthly markers but even as Avery approaches 19 months, they still surprise me. Surprise me at how fast time flies, how big my babies are growing and how much I enjoy being around them more each day!
So naturally I enjoyed Warner's 4 month doctor's appointment just as much as any other! He is getting so strong and the big news? He OFFICIALLY rolled over this morning for the first time! I am so proud of him and loved watching him then continue to roll over many times throughout the day. It seems they instantly gain the familiarity and confidence in such a task and "wah-la", master it within seconds!
His STATS:
Weight - 17 pounds 2 ounces
Height - 25 inches
*Both between the 75th & 90th percentile
He did great at his doctor's appointment and didn't even cry at the first shot and only for a few seconds on the second one!
I love this little boy. So so much. I kiss those chubby cheeks every chance I get and love snuggling that sweet chubbly-bubbly baby body! He is such an incredible baby!
Since I was such a bad baby and a big crier, you could say that my parents think it's a little less than fair that I got 2 good babies. Maybe because I made up for my behavior in later years? Haha!
So naturally I enjoyed Warner's 4 month doctor's appointment just as much as any other! He is getting so strong and the big news? He OFFICIALLY rolled over this morning for the first time! I am so proud of him and loved watching him then continue to roll over many times throughout the day. It seems they instantly gain the familiarity and confidence in such a task and "wah-la", master it within seconds!
I just rolled over for the 1st time! |
Weight - 17 pounds 2 ounces
Height - 25 inches
*Both between the 75th & 90th percentile
He did great at his doctor's appointment and didn't even cry at the first shot and only for a few seconds on the second one!
I love this little boy. So so much. I kiss those chubby cheeks every chance I get and love snuggling that sweet chubbly-bubbly baby body! He is such an incredible baby!
Since I was such a bad baby and a big crier, you could say that my parents think it's a little less than fair that I got 2 good babies. Maybe because I made up for my behavior in later years? Haha!
San Diego!
We just got back from a wonderful 9 day vacation in San Diego with the
Plas Family and had the best time! The trip seemed to fly by but we
managed to pack it full of memories and fun adventures!
Thanks to Susan, who handled ALL of the planning, we stayed in a gorgeous condo along the Bay that was a perfect fit for our two families. It was an absolute blast and one of my favorite vacations ever. Yes; it's definitely a lot more work with two little ones but brings with it a new, exciting element. Avery was just old enough to enjoy all the "kiddy" rides at Belmont Park and she loved playing at the beach with Dad! If she could talk, she would probably say her favorite part of the entire trip was getting to play with Campbell every single day! They played so well together (as usual) and Campbell took excellent care of her. Even down to painting her toe nails for the 1st time!
And I would be lying if I said I didn't LOVE having one of my very best friends with me everyday! I'm already having Susan withdrawals! ;)
Each morning I would take Avery & Warner for a run along the beach (definitely wish I had that luxury everyday) until one of my tires blew up! Since I have the most incredible Dad, he hunted down a bike shop and replaced my tire! He knew how much my morning runs meant to me and what a bummer it would be without my stroller the remainder of the trip. Thank you Dad!!!! That meant the world to me!
We filled the rest of our days with trips to Belmont Park, playing at the Beach, boat rides on the bay, sailing, driving into La Jolla and evening dinners back at our place! Wednesday we were lucky enough to arrange a date night for all the adults and headed to PB Ale House (my favorite!). The good news Jess? I didn't fall down the stairs! ;)
I loved watching Avery experience all these exciting things now that she's a little older. I've gone to Belmont Park so many times and but only now became giddy about the Carousel and the Thunder Boats! Meanwhile, Warner was PERFECT the entire trip. I cannot say enough what a wonderful baby he is! I am blessed with two incredible kids. Technically, it was our first family vacation with the 4 of us! ;)
Friday night was also a blast because Dad & Ann cooked an incredible mexican feast for everyone including Jamie, Jereme & his friend Wells! It was SO delicious and a night to remember! ;)
We stayed one last night at Jamie & Jereme's house since we weren't quite ready to leave this city we so love! Not to mention, we wanted a little extra time with the fam!
I can hardly wait to go back!
Thanks to Susan, who handled ALL of the planning, we stayed in a gorgeous condo along the Bay that was a perfect fit for our two families. It was an absolute blast and one of my favorite vacations ever. Yes; it's definitely a lot more work with two little ones but brings with it a new, exciting element. Avery was just old enough to enjoy all the "kiddy" rides at Belmont Park and she loved playing at the beach with Dad! If she could talk, she would probably say her favorite part of the entire trip was getting to play with Campbell every single day! They played so well together (as usual) and Campbell took excellent care of her. Even down to painting her toe nails for the 1st time!
And I would be lying if I said I didn't LOVE having one of my very best friends with me everyday! I'm already having Susan withdrawals! ;)
Each morning I would take Avery & Warner for a run along the beach (definitely wish I had that luxury everyday) until one of my tires blew up! Since I have the most incredible Dad, he hunted down a bike shop and replaced my tire! He knew how much my morning runs meant to me and what a bummer it would be without my stroller the remainder of the trip. Thank you Dad!!!! That meant the world to me!
We filled the rest of our days with trips to Belmont Park, playing at the Beach, boat rides on the bay, sailing, driving into La Jolla and evening dinners back at our place! Wednesday we were lucky enough to arrange a date night for all the adults and headed to PB Ale House (my favorite!). The good news Jess? I didn't fall down the stairs! ;)
I loved watching Avery experience all these exciting things now that she's a little older. I've gone to Belmont Park so many times and but only now became giddy about the Carousel and the Thunder Boats! Meanwhile, Warner was PERFECT the entire trip. I cannot say enough what a wonderful baby he is! I am blessed with two incredible kids. Technically, it was our first family vacation with the 4 of us! ;)
Friday night was also a blast because Dad & Ann cooked an incredible mexican feast for everyone including Jamie, Jereme & his friend Wells! It was SO delicious and a night to remember! ;)
We stayed one last night at Jamie & Jereme's house since we weren't quite ready to leave this city we so love! Not to mention, we wanted a little extra time with the fam!
I can hardly wait to go back!
He was such a good boy the entire car ride! |
Twinsies! |
Avery was obsessed with these rocks! |
My baby beach girl! |
Does it get cuter? |
So sweet. |
Warner looooves his Aunt Susan! |
Keep running Mom! |
Avery's 1st ride on the Carousel! |
More iPads! |
The Thunder Boats were a little scary - not gonna lie! |
Sup. |
The Crazy Submarine! Avery was braver than I was! |
Their very 1st boat ride! |
Bath time! |
Clearly, I love these shots. |
Amazing Father. It's the little things that make the biggest impact. |
Snuggles with Nanny. |
Avery stayed so still - it was hysterical! |
She had to try the Crazy Submarine with Grandad! |
Date Night! |
Beautiful Mom & Daughter! |
Long time inside joke that came to fruition this night! |
Hi Grandad. Don't mind me. |
Ann...always there to help! |
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