Valentine’s Day

We decided to avoid the crowds this year and go out to celebrate the day before Valentine’s Day. Our dinner at Maggiano’s was nothing short of decadent, as we tried some new dishes and finished it all off with a chocolate mousse cake. Scrumptious! I am such a fan of Italian food. Tom was leaning toward going to a steak joint but somehow my preference won out (thanks, hubby!). To anybody who hasn’t been to Maggiano’s, mention it to us and we will attempt to fit it into your worldview.

Ian the helper

Ian loves using brooms. So it was only fitting that we show him how to use it properly (here, Grandma Carol does the duties). And Santa was loving enough to bring Ian his own broom and dustpan set for Christmas this year. Something tells me that Santa may have more than one motive!!

Christmas Day

This year we were in a different location for the big day... home. Usually we are in the car, traveling to SD. We missed my parents and sisters immensely, although it also made for a relaxing holiday. Surprisingly, Ian opened only two presents on Christmas Day... it was more than enough. He received a collapsible house to play in and a stick pony to ride to his heart's content. We hope your holidays were memorable and filled with joyful times.

Family Photo Opt

Is it true that the more time you spend around somebody, the more you become like them? The scary thing is, Tom and Ian were already dressed alike today and I just decided to join the fun. It reminds me of a Cat in the Hat book. They say horizontal stripes aren't the most flattering, so let's hope that we won't cringe when we glance at these photos later...

Lessons in Brushing

Here is our little Ian, learning one of the necessary disciplines of grooming and personal hygiene. I figured that we might as well start him off on the right foot sooner rather than later, and he seems to enjoy scrubbing those pearly whites. It's a bit of a game, which adds to the appeal. Now maybe we should start saving for braces...

Holiday Family Pictures

Too bad "holiday" and "family pictures" have to be in the same sentence. At least that is my understanding as of this week! Throw a toddler in the mix and you've got a recipe for disaster. Okay, maybe "disaster" is a bit harsh, but when the photographer has exhausted the phrase "Okay, let's try something else," you know he's praying for an extra dose of patience. True, they are probably seasoned with children of all ages, but methinks a 2-year-old just might be one of the most trying ages. My first mistake was pulling out the favored "Mr. Bear" within the first few minutes. Snapping photos was a breeze... until we wanted one without Mr. Bear. Needless to say, the following 50 minutes were a series of whimpers for the bear that had mysteriously disappeared. And it doesn't help when both Tom and I are continually remembering the hourly rate we're paying for Ian to display a laugh or even a desperate little smile that has yet to appear. We have yet to lay our eyes on any of the images resulting from that dismal day, but our hopes are that the memories captured will be priceless.

We've Got Ourselves a GIRL!

I've had at least 24 hours to ponder the idea of being a daughter's mother, and it truly evokes emotions I didn't expect. My mind is fast forwarding toward far off dates, such as ear piercing, the dreaded "birds and bees" talk (a role I dare not defy), first boyfriend/date, etc. I get emotional already and I've never even met the little lady. It also creates a sense of responsibility in me as her primary female role model. No more excuses in becoming less than I am capable of! She'll be watching. I can see why being a parent is like a dose of forced maturity... it's not necessary to embrace and accept the role, but it will sure make life more rewarding for all involved. All I can say is, we're ecstatic to welcome her!!