ABCD...G

My Most Sincerest Apologies

2011-12-05T15:53:00.000-08:00

Sorry for the lack of posting- but there has been some catastrophic drama in the Geupel family.

The Geupel family has been disestablished.

At this time, I have started another blog to express what is happening and my feelings through the process...

If you are interested, you may start following that at www.myjourneyoutofthedark.blogspot.com

Thank you

Stress? What stress???

2011-03-05T08:52:00.000-08:00

I think everyone defines stress differently. For example, something that I would deem stress worthy (which is most everything- I may have a problem) may be totally insignificant to someone else (aka- Abe.) About a month ago I was at the doctor, and mentioned/asked about these reddish patches I had broken out with over most of body. The doctor declared them an 'eczema break out' and asked if I had been under any stress (evidently, stress is a major factor in these type of things- I did research.) I thought she was talking silly, then started thinking about everything that has happened the last few months---so here is a boring (and hopefully not too long) recap of our lives as of late.

Cole has been sick at least 6 more times- no joke. He has had two more stomach bugs (and successfully can make it to the toilet in time now- yea!) and 4 colds/respiratory infections- he's actually battling the latest one as we speak. This has meant lots of whining, sleepless nights, and trips to Urgent Care. After my last trip to UC when the doctor lectured me for no less than 45 minutes about when it is/is not appropriate to take your child to the doctor (the kid was running a 103.7 fever and complaining of "bugs in his ears"- I'm not that neurotic), what tests are/are not appropriate for diagnosis (this case, spinal tap is not necessary- really? jeez, couldn't have figured that one out on my own) and the benefits of socialized medicine in Germany- I've decided driving back to his pediatrician in Scottsdale (when possible) is totally necessary. Next year- I am NOT forgetting to get this kid a flu shot! (I'm totally blaming this rash of illnesses on that!)
We celebrated the big 3 holidays (Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years)and in between I turned 30 (BLECH!) Cole, of course, made out like a mad man, again! This year was SO FUN with him though, cause he totally 'got' the whole Santa thing, so Santa made sure to get everything on his little wish list! Abe's parents even came up and stayed the night Christmas Eve (my parents came up and took us to breakfast Christmas Eve morning) and got to experience the whole thing. It really was a lot of fun this year!
Cole and I survived his first Winter Break (barely) During his two weeks off, he got his second stomach virus, which totally interrupted my plan of potty training during break.

We POTTY TRAINED! I thought it would end up being the end of both of us. I have to say (after a tip from my mom of making him clean up his own messes) he's now a pro. I don't have to remind him, or ask if he needs to go- he just does it! It's been great not having to change diapers any more! LOVE IT!

We also have had several snow storms (FINALLY!- it took until the week of Christmas before we got ANYTHING!- which for this neck of the woods, is pretty rare)

This was Cole's first snowman of the season- he added that protruding nose himself! He was so proud!

Fortunately, our big storms were over winter break (finally, something to keep the Cole-man entertained!), so we didn't have to deal with Snow Days (yes, those exist in AZ!)

The first storm, we got about 6-8 inches, which we were pretty excited about- of course, it melted pretty quickly.Then, a few days after Christmas, we got the storm of our lives. Now I know some of you that live north of AZ, would probably find our 'little storm' pretty lame- but for this born and bred Phoenician, it was awesome! This was our backyard. I would say we even got a few more inches after that. I think we ended in the 18-20 inch range, which was record breaking for these parts.

So pretty! You can just make out Abe's tracks from leaving for work that morning. There was at least 4 inches that had fallen in them.

Cole LOVES it! Yes, that is him, waste deep! After this storm, we got him snow gear (my parents found it in Phoenix, of all places- there wasn't a single snow ready item his size anywhere in Prescott!)

That was my car- needless to say, Cole and I didn't go anywhere for a few days- it actually took more than a week for the city to clean it all up- of course, since we're county and Nat.Forest, we were plowed MUCH faster. I even (naively) told my family it was okay to come visit- which was a disaster- my dad slid/got stuck. I just don't realize how bad it is since I'm spoiled with 4WD.

Abe even broke down and bought a snow blower for the driveway/around the house!

Made all the difference.

We also got Cole his own snow shovel- he has to earn his keep!

With all that snow, its been cold. Like, we've even been below zero. Single digits plenty of times. Which means, we have been BURNING through propane. 700+ gallons to be exact (since October!) For those of you wanting to do the math- don't, it may make you nauseous- it does me! It also makes me MORE than angry- we were not in the least bit told this could be the case. With that being said...

We are more than planning on a move out of here. I'm already looking (which is a bit premature, but I picked this place, so I feel more than a little responsible to try to make it better) We definitely do NOT want to move again, but when your heating costs are this astronomical, it doesn't make sense to stay. We even offered to buy/install a wood stove (can you believe there isn't one?) and were told we could discuss it again in the summer (a whole lotta good that will do us!). Guess two and a half foot thick walls aren't that efficient after all!

I also have made several trips to PHX and Abe has gone on hunting trips. This normally probably wouldn't fall in the "stressful" range, except I always have great anxiety while driving south. (Again, I may have a problem) I always get anxious of the drivers around me- I don't trust anyone, nor their driving- especially semis- on those windy, twisting roads, going so fast. Which also means I worry about Abe when he's out. He has also been working on jobs all over the state- again, I worry!

I have also been dealing with one of those "everything I'm involved with seems to go wrong" periods in my life. Ever have those? I ordered the parts for Cole's "big boy" bed conversion (he has one of those cribs) and after waiting more than a month (and him sleeping on an air mattress) they arrived, and were the wrong color. Come to find out, they discontinued his color YEARS ago. Its really not that big of a deal (you barely notice them) but that was on top of buying the mattress set for his new bed, and then finding out we didn't need the "set" just the mattress- and of course, no refunds, store credit only. And to top that all off, I bought a ridiculous amount of fabric to make him a quilt for his new bed, spent an absurd amount of money, and then prewashed (which I never do!) and the green fabric bled all over everything. This was the same week I had to call to have the propane filled for the second time, to heat the house that I picked. That was after I had told my dad it was safe to visit, when it wasn't. It's just all been a bit much- I cried a little.

I also got to talk to my brother (who's in Guatemala) on Christmas day. I think I've been in denial. I've been trying to pretend like he's just not around when I've been visiting my parents. But after talking to him, I realized how much I truly miss him and how much it sucks that he's gone. That kid has meant so much to me in my life, and I've just taken for granted him being around (plus, I really am not a fan of where he is in Guatemala- way too close to Mexico if you ask me, and I have very strong feelings against Mexico) When I had to say good bye (my dad was footing the bill for the phone call and was being a bit of a phone nazi- just kidding dad!) I broke. I cried a lot that day- I'm crying now. I know its totally selfish, but I want him back. Seventeen months, and counting (I think!)

Well, I think that's been the most of it. I'm sure there's more, but likely my subconscious is blocking it out for me! haha! Sorry the pictures are a little lacking, Cole hasn't been doing near all the cute stuff he used to, now he just says funny/cute things (those will have to come later.) I'm totally blaming my little eczema issue on most of these things. Abe said it was just due to getting old (I instantly felt five more spots pop up!) Fortunately, I'm all better and hope to stay that way- especially since we have our first weekend away planned since before I got pregnant with Cole. Vegas baby! Although, I'm getting a little anxious at the thought of leaving Cole...and going that whole long distance......

I might need help.

Cole's First Field Trip

2010-11-01T14:54:00.000-07:00

Hopefully, someone out there is still checking on my poor, little, neglected blog. Now that we are moved, somewhat settled, and establishing our routines again- I will be writing again.

During the move, my camera suffered a tragic fall from the counter top totally busting the lens cover thingy so it wouldn't open and obstructed the lens- meaning my picture taking abilities have been impeded. Abe was very kind and generous and got me a new camera for an anniversary gift (yes, in all the craziness of the last month we celebrated our 6th anniversary!), however- with the 50+ pictures/videos I've taken with the new camera, I've liked about 3 of them- meaning I am taking that camera back and will try again (gotta love Costco and their return policies!)

In sheer desperation for Halloween pics, I rednecked taped up the lens cover on my old one (I wasn't going to risk not getting good pics with the new one) and loved every picture I took Halloween night (but I'll post those later.) With that being said, I have also promised pics of the new house to the blog, but hadn't been able to. Now that I have my "jerry-rigged" camera, I will try to get a few pics of the house up this week sometime.

In the meantime, we have had a lot happen so I have some catching up to do!

Starting with Cole's first field trip...

Cole got to go the County Fair with his preschool, and I got to go too! Here are some highlights of the day:

Being that his preschool is through the school district, we rode the school bus to the Fair. Cole wasn't too sure at first, but ultimately loved it! (He even got the coveted back seat!)
Cole sometimes has a hard time getting "involved." He is more of an observer
fortunately, thanks to his friend Austin, he did get a little involved... Here we were on the hayride- in case you can't tell, Cole wasn't too sure about the whole thing, and I think he was a little freaked out by the old yokel driving the tractor (oh wait, that was me! haha)

They also had this super cute set up for the kids to be "Farmer for a Day"

They picked carrots...

and potatoes...

gathered eggs from the "chickens"...

and plucked apples from the "tree"...

They then had to take their baskets to the "farm stand" and sort them correctly (as you can see, corn was an option- they had "corn stalks" made from PVC pipe and the corn sticking out, but Cole would have nothing to do with the corn since it was swarming with flies! Smart kid!)

After they turned in their "harvest" they got a sticker and a ribbon that said "I was farmer for a day"...yadda yadda yadda- definitely the highlight for Cole, minus the bus ride of course!

On the way back to school, the kids wanted to ride together with out the moms. As you can see, Austin is definitely Cole's buddy!

Sadly, Austin moved away two weeks ago, and I think it has taken its toll on Cole. Since Austin left, I have fought with Cole every day about going to school (and I think Austin's absence is a primary factor.) Poor little guy! Supposedly there is a new kid in his class that his teacher think will be a good "fit" for Cole (yes, even his teacher(s) noticed the change in Cole after Austin left), but only time will tell I guess.

On top of that, Cole got his first gastro virus. Yes, that's right, for the first time since he was an infant, Cole was throwing up (absolutely the thing I dreaded most about being a mother- puke!) He hadn't been acting himself for a few days and at midnight one night, woke up crying, just crying- so I took him to the family room, turned on a movie, and hoped he would fall back asleep. About 20 minutes later he started throwing up, and I ran and got Abe ;-) Abe, being the awesome guy he is, spared me having to clean up (though I did clean up, change, and comfort Cole). Cole and I sat up till about 4 am with bucket in hand (only had to use one more time) and finally got to sleep for about an hour or so.

The next morning, well- lets just say I was grateful Cole was still wearing diapers and anything involved immediately found its way into the trash can.

Silly me, thinking that was the last of the viral cycle entertained Cole's idea for lunch. He wanted a quesadilla from Taco Bell, and since it was the first time he was interested in food for 5 days, I took him to Taco Bell. He ate about half his mini quesadilla and then we went to his color blindness screening at the preschool (more on that later). He laid on the floor at school, and I thought he was just tired. We then went to a very crowded Papa Murphys to pick up pizza for dinner, and fortunately, I saw it coming in time to cover his mouth and keep the damage to covering just us two.

We left without dinner.

I took him to urgent care just to be safe and make sure he wasn't becoming dehydrated. The poor kid kept apologizing and saying it was an accident (he thought he would be in trouble for making a mess) and also started to ask to go back to his old house (which is sound reasoning for a 3 year old, he wasn't ever sick at the old house, so if he goes back, he'll get better) Abe then went hunting, so I went and sought refuge at my parents'. By the second day there, Cole finally started to act more like himself- it was a rough couple of days for sure (I think what cured him was the giant tree truck Grandma and Grandpa got him- it was the first thing he had really played with all week- which was really abnormal for him to not be playing with something constantly!)

Well, that's enough rambling for now. Like I said, I'll post more now that we're settled and I'll get pics of the new digs up soon!

Oh my goodness...where has the time gone?

2010-09-20T14:11:00.000-07:00

I don't even know where to begin with all that's happened the last few weeks.

So I'll start with the "fun" stuff that I have pictures for:

Its been hunting season up here and Abe went out quite a bit in search of his elusive first kill (well, BIG kill anyway.) Cole and I even went "truck hunting" with him a few times- meaning we drove around down the highway into the mountains until we saw something, at which point Abe would get out and try to go do his thing, Cole would "hunt" from his car seat and I would play card games on Abe's phone and text my sister- it was actually more fun than it might sound.
We also learned that, after some HEAVY rain up this way, one of Abe's job sites close to the house had a puddle bursting with tadpoles. In our infinite wisdom, we thought it might be cool to take a few home and watch them turn into frogs. Well, we took home 7 tadpoles and by the time we went to release them...

...we had 5!!! Now, we didn't kill/let any of them die, just two of them became frogs faster than we expected and jumped the coop! After the second one got away (to who knows where!) we decided to take the rest and release them back to their puddle.

Cole did the dumping honors

While I had been taking pictures from the other side of the puddle, and positioning my child for a primo shot (which, of course I never got) ...

I noticed this little guy poised and waiting- obviously for all the frogs as they grew and left the puddle. Hopefully ours were able to stay away from him!

During this same little outing, Abe gave Cole this gift from one of his hunting buddies- his first gun! (It's just a pellet gun/air rifle, and we have discussed endlessly the rules pertaining to the gun...)

Cole was sooo excited- especially since he wants to do everything and have everything just like his dad!

Learning how to line it up:

He loves his new gun- especially when Dad would just shoot it for him. Its still a little big, but I know that thing will end up getting a lot of use!

Meanwhile, I have still been looking for houses. And I mean LOOKING. I check Craigs List at least 30 times a day, check the classifieds in the local paper every morning, all the property management sites...basically making myself crazy. I noticed one that posted while we were in Michigan (yes, I was making sure to check even while we were on vacation!) When we got back, it was still available (which was a shock considering the current rental market, and the reason why I check everything so often- the good stuff just gets gobbled up faster than you can believe!) but, it was going for a little more than we wanted to spend.

After a price decrease, I thought, aw- what the heck, I'll check it out. It was this stinking cute little house (well, smaller than what we're in now), on almost an acre, in an awesome school zone, and fenced! I took Abe out the next day, he liekd it and deemed it perfect- minus the location, we want to be in the pines after all. So, a day or two later (and panicking that this house would get taken) I went out with our realtor to see the inside for the first time, and it was even better. Put in an application and decided I wanted Abe to see the inside before we did anything definite. Took Abe out, he liked it, though we were still thinking how we really wanted to be in the pines, but this house met every other criteria we had asked for, and decided we would go ahead and sign a lease that Tuesday (it was Labor Day weekend and the PM was closed till Tuseday.)

However, as cute and perfect as all aspects of this house were, I just wasn't getting as excited about it as I had the other homes we have wanted. The reason why came Sunday morning of that Labor Day weekend. Like my daily ritual, I checked the classifieds of the local paper and the second house listed was a 4000sq ft home in the pines for less than what this house we were going to sign papers on was going for. I thought there must be a typo or something, because we have watched this area meticulously and there has been nothing decent for under $1600. I decided to wait until 9:00am to call- it was Sunday after all, and at 8:59 and 30 seconds, I called. I was the first person! (this is huge in the rental market, since they usually work on a first call, first served basis!) I set up a viewing for 1:00pm (Abe was out hunting till then) and, after talking to the owner, I knew EXACTLY which house this was. As I said, Abe and I have watched this area like crazy, we will even just go and drive through it on a Sunday afternoon- and on every one of those drives, we have made a comment about this particular house.

When we arrived we were totally stoked because, if anything, we were going to get to view this house that we have been so fascinated with. I didn't say anything till we were in the front door (but I could have said it before we even walked in), but I looked at Abe and said "just ask for the lease and sign it!" He waited till we were around the corner of the entry and then said "I'm just going to sign the lease" The thing is amazing- so much so we realized once we were home that we hadn't even looked at the bathrooms, but we really don't care. There are also some quirky things that were deal breakers with other homes, but this house is so amazing we decided we could make whatever quirks there are work. It is truly a piece of art, built with recycled materials (tires and pop cans) and concrete and adobe (which put at ease our concerns of heating a 4000sq ft house in the pines!) The space is amazing, the woodwork is custom and from the trees taken down to clear the building site, the back patio is gorgeous, and its on an acre in the PINES!!! We are still working on a few details, but as long as nothing CRAZY happens, we are moving in next week! Which means I have been packing and going insane! I'll post some pictures and talk about it more once we're in.

On top of all that, Abe took a trip to Alaska this past week to go moose hunting with his dad and best friend (his mom was along, too.) And to Abe's utter happiness and excitement, he actually got one (I will get pictures from him eventually, and hopefully they won't offend too many.) Getting home was an entirely different challenge, but he's here with his antler's and Cole couldn't be more proud of his dad!

Just before Abe left, I got a text at 5am on the 9th, that my sister had gone into the hospital (she was supposed to be induced that evening- so I had planned on getting ready and heading down that afternoon.) With our family's history, I knew I didn't have much time to make it, so I mad dashed around the house and the town getting ready and was out the door by 7am. After dropping Dozer off at my parents I pulled into the hospital parking lot at 8:37 and Miss Brylee had been born at 8:33! I made it just in time for us to go in and see the happy little family (well, mom and dad weer happy- Brylee, not so much)

Here is Brylee Dell Parks, born 9-9-10, 6lbs 3oz, 19in long.

She is absolutely tiny! Definitely the smallest baby to grace this family! (smallest head too, by far!- so not fair!!! haha)

Cole is smitten with his cousin. This is the only time he would hold her, he likes it better when I hold her and he can just come over and snuggle her

So, with Abe being gone, Cole driving me nanners, and this little thing to cuddle, Cole and I went back to Phoenix this past weekend. Which also means, I have an extreme amount of packing to do- so I need to get off the computer!

But seriously, check back for when I am able to put pics up of the new house! And if you're in the area, give us a call and stop by- we are hoping to be here as long as they'll let us {wink}!

My Latest Time Consuming Endeavor

2010-08-23T13:49:00.000-07:00

Sometimes (a lot of times, actually) I find myself asking why I choose to (insist on, would be more accurate) pick projects and plan events that suck up so much of my time (and resources $$$ for that matter!)

Then I remember, its always for the best of reasons. Its for people I love and care about, I really, truly, deep down LOVE doing it, and I just flat out can't help myself.

My sister, Rachel, is expecting her first baby (a girl) really any day now. Months ago, my mom and I discussed giving her a baby shower...so I got planning.

After going through my fabric stash (which, surprisingly to me, is quite large) and purchasing a few enhancements, here's what I came up with...
and I thought, what would be better than a baby quilt.

The absolutely LONGEST part of the whole process was the laying out of pieces- couldn't have colors close to each other, had to keep patterns separated...it literally took twice as long as the actual sewing.

During all this time, poor Cole was extremely neglected and managed to find ways to occupy himself, including DESTROYING the house and taking a few fantastic photos (one of his FAVORITE things to do lately)

He took this one below, too!

The finished project! I am actually EXTREMELY proud of it (so much so, I debated keeping it and just going out and buying a gift!) It was my first attempt at "quilting" (I've always just "tied" quilts I've made) and I love it! I am already planning how I am going to convince Abe that Cole needs to move into his Big Boy Big Boy Bed (you know, a full size) so I can make another quilt. I'm thinking my room may need one, too. Ohhh, but how I am dreaming of a new sewing machine (I have a few models in mind- maybe for Christmas or I do have a BIG {gasp} birthday coming up- a girl can dream, right!)

I also pillaged the rest of my stash (and added a few supplements) and came up with this assortment of hair bands/flowers (all the flowers are on ribbon covered clips and can be switched out on the headbands)

I had to cut myself off at 12 (I do have limits, after all) mostly because, simultaneously, I was creating all this as well...

Paper Rose Topiary (no exaggeration, there are at least 35 mini glue sticks holding this bad boy together! It turned out so good though!)

I also sat and folded about 40 paper pinwheels, which covered my parents' house (I also found those polka dot stickers on the door at the dollar store- perfect! They, too, covered the house)

This was my favorite of the pinwheels. I went through (and spent 2+ hours organizing) my paper/scrapbooking stash (again, amazing to me how much paper I truly have- but can a girl ever have too much paper or fabric, really?), found these adorable letters and spelled out the baby girl's name. (In case you can't see it, it says Brylee)

I also made some of my favorite paper lanterns- I really do love those things!

My camera has been having some issues (possibly due to my budding photographer ???) so the best picture I got of my sister and the baby bump was this one (with her husband, Bobby)...

Like I said, it was all totally worth it, though I am glad its done. Now I can go back to paying attention to my son, my husband, and my house (which DESPERATELY needs attention right now since Cole has destroyed it, remember!?!)

Of course, that's until I find/start a new project.

Any ideas?

Cole's a School Boy...

2010-08-13T08:13:00.000-07:00

...well, preschool boy at least.

Cole started Preschool on Monday. Here he is sporting his new school clothes.
And making a goofy, fake smile while saying "cheese"

Walking up to the school...

Mommy and Cole (again! Darn it, I should have got one of Cole and Dad. Abe met us at the school for the big day.) It was a big day for me, as well. This is the first time we've left him with anyone that is not a blood relative! I cried for quite some time in the car after leaving him.
In front of his classroom...
Putting on his name sticker and checking out what's going on. He spotted a car wash (right there in front of him) and so Abe and I made a quick and sneaky exit.
When I went to pick him up, I walked in the room, he saw me, immediately stuck out his bottom lip, which began to quiver, and then (BREAKING my heart) he said "Mommy, I wost you!" It took everything in me to not start crying again! His teachers shared with me that he had been pretty sad that day. So, what better remedy than an In-N-Out milkshake?
He goes three days a week (M-T-W, which is a schedule that I LOVE!!! I love that we can have 4 day, uninterrupted weekends). Therefore, day two was worse than day 1. The director of the school, who was helping out in his classroom, had to peel him off me and I left the room to the most heart-wrenching cry. Again, I cried too, but not till I was out of the classroom and had my sunglasses on- I mean, who cries on the 2nd day of dropping their kid off at school?. Oh, the joys of being a mother. When I picked him up that day, there was some small pouting and about a dozen "Mommy, I missed you" (but in the cute, adorable way only Cole can say it) before we got to the car. The teacher said he cried for about half an hour, but then was a great participator and was the best helper cleaning up the play-dough.

Day 3? Well, what do you know- Cole started crying and at this point I was kind of over it, until another mom said, "oh, he's so sad, stay strong momma" and at that point I left just in time to put my sunglasses on! 3 days in a row! ...both of us ?...I know, pretty lame. But we survived the first week. My favorite part about Day 3, was Cole started BAWLING before we even left the house. I had been explaining to him for days at this point that I will ALWAYS pick him up and its just for a short time. Knowing that it was the last day of the week, I wrote on a piece of paper that he went to school on M-T-W and then was home with me for Th-F-Sa-Su. After this explanation, he proceeded to tell me that it was Saturday, not Wednesday. I would laugh and tell him that it was indeed Wednesday, to which he would say "no, Thursday, mom, Thursday." He then told me he NEEDED to go to the airport, and get dad, and go to the airport. I can't believe he is already coming up with excuses for not going to school! His teacher said he only cried about 5 minutes on day 3- though I still got (and still do get, actually) "I missed you at schoo, Mommy"

On a side note, when asked by his grandma if he liked school he said "Yes, I do" and then told her about all he plays and does.

Little stinker- I swear this kid plays me like a fiddle.

Trying to catch my breath...and just catch up!

2010-08-10T09:27:00.000-07:00

Wow- I don't even know where to begin with all that's been going on around here...I figured out the other day that since the second week of July, I have been home 3 days! 3 days! and that includes a day that I spent over 9 hours in Phoenix. Needless to say- I have not had any time to keep up on blogging, so I am about to do a blog/picture overload- but I have to catch up!

With that being said, I am probably going to give the following subjects much less blogging fanfare than they deserve, but a girl's gotta do what a girl's gotta do.

So let's get started....

After looking at Cole looking like this for too long...
Abe convinced me to give the little guy his first haircut.

It was pretty traumatic for both of us.

I will admit, it did look so much better when finished, but I don't think I will be cutting it again for a while (I want some of his curls to grow back, maybe-hopefully- even fill in!)

Cole also turned 3! I can't believe my baby boy is 3!!! We took him to his favorite, Fuddruckers, and he raced boats and shot moose all night long.

Surprisingly, when we got home, we asked what he wanted to do and his response was "pull weeds."

Weirdo!

We then gave Cole a garbage/trash themed birthday party- which, as always, I put way too much time, money, and effort into- but it was a lot of fun!

These were all my decorations. I made all the lanterns and garbage can paraphernalia, and the newspapers were abundant.

I also put all the chips/snacks in garbage cans...

...and made a garbage truck cake (as long as you didn't look too closely, it looked halfway decent.)

Our activity was a garbage pile bug search- complete with claw grabbers

I made Cole a shirt again this year, though I didn't get a good picture- you can kind of see it here, it says 'Trash Talker' under the garbage truck.

Cole did so well at blowing out his candles, that we had to relight them like 3 times! He kept blowing them out before we could sing, get pictures, etc...

I also made this little mural to go around the kitchen island, and paper pieced the houses together.

We had a Fabulous 4th and spent the evening watching fireworks off the deck, for probably the last time (one of the great benefits of living on a mountain top.)

We then spent 5 days in Phoenix, came home to get ready for 2 days, and then headed off to Utah with my family.

Here is how Cole kept entertained most of the trip...

We spent a day in Park City at the Bitner Family Ranch. Cole was totally in his element...

He really enjoyed the sheep through the fence.

Aaawww! A picture of Mommy and Cole (one of very few, ever!)

He didn't enjoy the sheep so much on his side of the fence...

While all this was going on, I was at the outlet mall across the highway on a very successful shopping trip.

We then had a barbecue with some of my dad's family. Cole wanted in on the volleyball action bad!

He got his turn!

And two bowls of homemade ice cream for all his hard work!

Cole also found ways of keeping himself entertained on yet another shopping excursion.

The ultimate reason we went to Utah was to drop off my youngest brother, David, at the Missionary Training Center (MTC) where he will prepare to serve a mission for the LDS church in Guatemala. While in Utah, David taught Cole to attempt to touch his nose with his tongue, which has become an obsession of Cole's (and which is what he was doing earlier in the clothing rack base). Here, they were doing it together.

After coming home from Utah, I spent a few hours at home, made a mad dash to Phoenix to do my friend's hair before she got married, and ran back home to prepare for 9 days in Michigan!

What was so nice about our Michigan trip was that there were no set plans. Besides making it to the Dining Hall in time for meals, the rest of the day was spent doing absolutely whatever! This year, the weather was great, so we were able to really enjoy the lake.

This was Cole's first time in the water.

He was quite unsure about going in...

Cole and his partner in crime (and hunting), Felix. Felix is one of Abe's cousins who lives in England.

Cole finally got off of the stairs.

And then he found why Higgins Lake is so fabulous. It is literally 2-2 1/2 feet deep for about the first 40 to 50 feet from shore, at which point it drops to a whopping 3-4 feet deep. At some point it does drop off to much, much deeper. It is an awesome lake for kids, since they have SOOO much space they can play in. (my depth ranges are just guesses, I couldn't find anywhere to give me exact figures)

Kayaking with Dad

Taking a rest on a raft

...and the dock

Here is Cole, Felix and Georgia making the pilgrimage to the dining hall.

Cole quickly learned that the best thing about the dining hall is the abundance of ice cream cones...

After lunch one day we took a walk and Cole decided to take a nap. He slept in his stroller on the screened in porch, with the lake breeze blowing in for like two and a half hours! Everyone was jealous!

Abe's dad, John, spent most of the trip in similar scenarios. He was such a good sport...

Cole would gather "hot nuts" (long story) for the squirrels and chipmunks and place them on the stoop of the deck. I would wait a while and then throw them to the wind and tell Cole that they had come and eaten them all *repeat* Much to my surprise, one day I actually caught a chipmunk eating them!

After two "sca-wee" firework displays in Utah, Cole began to warm up to them a bit

Cole also got to go play golf with his Dad and Gaga. Golf is his new favorite past time- I can't begin to tell you how many pictures I have from the last few weeks of this kid playing golf.

He really though he was one of the big boys...

He also did a little "work" with Dad

Cole and Felix spent much of the trip sharing their love of weaponry. They also went on several "hunting" excursions a day.

Cole even helped Abe light a few fireworks.

Family S'more time (there's a few neighbor kids there, too)

Cole getting his first taste of the Geupel Family Bongo Board...

Here is Cole driving the Ponta. *note that just about every child in the family has a picture, at about this age, similar to this. ** I also have to add that this was one of the most hysterical boat rides I've ever been on, for reasons too numerous to mention now, but it will definitely be one for the ol' memory bank.

All that driving was hard work...Cole spent the rest of the trip like this:

...and followed it up at dinner with this:

He actually fell asleep at the dining hall several times. We also celebrated Abe's birthday while we were there (along with his cousin, Ava, and aunt, Amanda). Unfortunately, I don't have any great pictures from his birthday (he got a cake and sang to at dinner), because right before we went to dinner, Cole suffered his greatest injury to date. Let's just say that a very large and heavy wooden rocking chair somehow made contact with his mouth, while his tongue was between his teeth. Let your imagination go, and you probably still won't be able to picture how gruesome it was. It's an absolute miracle that it didn't go all the way through (though, it came about as close as it possibly could to doing so!) That incident kind of put a damper on the whole evening, but fortunately, it has been healing quickly, and he is able to eat and drink normally again.

Like I said, I probably did none of these events the true justice they deserve. Things have been hectic, crazy, but ultimately fun. We have had a blast the last few weeks, and are now just trying adjust back to normality

Of course, our normality now involves school...but that will have to wait for another day.

Cole's Therapy Progress

2010-07-01T15:40:00.000-07:00

Cole and Abe headed to Costco- don't worry, there is no air bag up front and Costco is less than a mile away!

So, as a follow up to Cole and his therapy- things went great. He had been doing so well in speech, that for the last three weeks that he was still eligible to receive services (the state literally only covers kids until the day they turn 3), they sent the OT only (plus, they justified it that he will get speech services like crazy in preschool.)

Basically, the first time she came, she just sat to observe Cole and his behaviors during a speech session. Of course, Cole being the charmer that he is, was a near angel while Cassidy (his SLP) was there and his OT (Raina) was beginning to wonder what she was doing there. She, at a later time, told me she was grateful she stuck around that day, because you better believe the instant Cassidy left, Cole began to act like his self (his self around me, anyway), and at that point Raina thought 'Oh, this is why I'm here.' (this was after he walked up and smacked me for talking about him, and when Raina told him that that was unacceptable behavior and we don't hit people, especially mommy, he turned and screamed at her to "shut up."-- We can't really have that happen at school now, can we?)

She had several opinions of Cole and his behaviors, as well as suggestions and tips that have been a tremendous help to me. In a nutshell, Cole is too smart for his own good, causing him to feel he is a peer to adults (and sometimes, superior to adults-especially me) and definitely superior to his true peers. Raina also commented that in all her years, she has never seen a child so concerned with/focused on what the adults were doing and discussing, and chiming in like he did (especially for his age.) She feels there are also many other factors into his behavioral issues, that are too boring and intricate for me to enumerate here- but just know that I (as well as those who spend time with Cole) are having to make adjustments, all for his ultimate benefit. She also helped me realize things about myself and the way I parent, which has been invaluable. Because of the time constraints, we crammed 3 information-packed sessions into a week (basically, we sat at the kitchen table and just went back and forth for an hour+ at a time.)

Cole's therapy overall has helped him/me/us more than I would have thought possible. The State Coordinator also wants me to look into a developmental children's psychologist or developmental pediatrician (which I will be discussing with Cole's pediatrician at his upcoming well-check for a referral) just to help give me some more understanding and guidance at how to adapt and handle a child like Cole (you may think this all sounds crazy, perhaps extreme, but I have discussed this matter to death with trained professionals, and a dear friend who has been through a very similar situation, and they all agree that this is all/has been more than necessary to help Cole, especially for once he gets to school and to make sure he never becomes labelled the 'bad kid'- which we are quickly approaching that irreparable territory, and that would be more than awful, because he is anything but a bad kid, he just needs some extra help right now, and we've been fortunate enough to receive that help.)

I am more than grateful though that I have had the help and direction with all this that I have had. My aforementioned friend tells me all the time that she wished she had known about all these services (or that they had even had these services) when she was dealing with her son, and I will forever be grateful to Cole's pediatrician for the referral (and forever drive to Scottsdale to see her!), because never would I have known that any of this would be available and be so beneficial to my son and our family.

I think that will be it for the serious stuff- now I'll just go back to writing about Cole coloring on all his new toys, or pulling out scissors to cut open packages of Reese's PB Cups that he helped himself to out of the upper pantry, or getting himself a can of pop out of the fridge in the garage- all of which has just occurred today!

*On a super side note- with all this happening I have been more than terrified of Cole getting kicked out of preschool for behavioral issues. I have been informed that because we have an IEP (Individualized Education Plan) in place, they can't kick him out! Woo hoo! Though I am sure I will still get called into the office regularly- though I am really hoping and crossing my fingers not to!

Wow!

2010-06-30T16:28:00.000-07:00

So things have been a little hectic around here, between therapies, wrapping up MOMS Club, house hunting, house keeping, and the obvious- dealing with the antics of a three year old (yes, he is now 3!!!)

But I am happy to say that they are all DONE! Well, maybe not- I'm still house hunting and house keeping and dealing with the antics of my 3 year old! However, we are done with therapy (speech and occupational) and I am Done, DONE, DONE with MOMS Club... which means, I will hopefully have a lot more time to blog again (hopefully there are still some out there who check in to this poor little neglected blog of mine!)

That being said, I have a lot of catching up to do, and I will begin when I know that my boy child is no position to strangle the dog with his belt, spray sunscreen ALLOVER the entire house, and smash a box of Frosted Flakes all over his playroom (and I wonder why there is an ant problem in there?), which are all some of his most recent antics (honestly, I think the dog was 30 seconds away from dieing!) which is precisely why I am going to go now!

But check back soon- because I am back!

Updates and then some...

2010-05-25T14:41:00.000-07:00

First off, let me start by saying this is why I hardly blog anymore. While writing my last post, here is what Cole was up to...

baking (or so he thought)...

At least he was attempting to clean it up...

It was honestly quite the little disaster. Oh the things this boy comes up with (keep reading!)

We spent the Saturday before Mother's Day with Abe's mom. We went to Chik-fil-A on the way to the train park in Scottsdale. It was a beautiful day and Cole enjoyed it, mostly.

He became a little apprehensive as the miniature train took off. He was very relieved to get off the train.

He enjoyed the train cars that didn't move (like this one) and was OBSESSED with the model train displays (especially the Thomas the Train car that zoomed along in the window!)

This moment was particularly funny, cause Paula couldn't quite control the water pressure while holding Cole and Cole was getting blasted in the face and up the nose, and thought it was actually quite funny.

We missed the annual Mother's Day dinner at my folk's this year (due to church, it was just WAY too late,) but don't worry- I plan on taking my mom out the next time I am in town. I did craft up some little albums for both moms as gifts, and while they took a tremendous amount of time, they turned out great and both really enjoyed them (it was the craft I arranged for my MOMS Club group for April)

I took Cole on a hike one day through the Granite Dells next to Willow Lake, here in Prescott. He did so good, and walked nearly the entire way! I did not enjoy carrying him the last 20 minutes or so, so I think next time we will try to go with Dad.

Cole has also been getting a hold of my camera. While downloading pictures today, I found these beauties and had to share:

Cole also decided, again while I was on the computer, that Dozer needed a haircut and I came out to find this...

He, of course, was SOOO proud of his work

Then, while sweeping I realized one of these things was not like the other...

Yes- those are little blond locks off the head of the little boy who, at almost the age of three, has STILL not had a haircut. So, in true Cole fashion, he decided to give himself a "ha-cut." And I, in a fit of hysterics and some rage, swept all the little piles of fur and hair right into the dustpan and into the garbage. I have regretted that I didn't save that first little snippet ever since, and will be sure to save some when I ACTUALLY cut his hair. {I still try not to think about it too much!}

Cole's fish, Mack, has passed away. I found him floating vertically (not normal) in his tank and like any good wife, called Abe and told him he needed to dispose of him as soon as he got home.

Abe took Jack out and placed him in a cup, and then went into the bathroom with Mack and tank, locking the door, and flushed the fish with Cole banging on the door. We thought we had avoided any confusion on Cole's part, only to have Cole then come and say to me that "dah-ee put Mack in da potty." Obviously, we can't put anything past this kid. We explained that Mack was sick, and had to go down the potty to which he replied "get him out and get meh-yi-cine" Too funny.

...About a week later, again- I was on the computer, Cole came in and said "Mommy- Jack miss hims friend" (all in Cole-speech, of course) and I said, Yeah he probably does, and then Cole said "yeah, him falled and get a booboo." At this point I turned and said "WHAT?!?!" and Cole said "Jack falled and get a booboo" I can't begin to tell you the things that ran through my mind, so I jumped up and ran out to see the coffee pot sitting next to the fish tank- and no Jack. As I got closer I saw Jack lying on the buffet, looking as though he had been smashed by the coffee pot, and not moving. Keeping my fingers crossed, I located some paper tried scooping up Jack (at which point he started flopping- OF COURSE!!!) and managed to get him back in the tank. Miraculously, he is still alive and we have had numerous discussions about how we don't take Jack out, missing his friend or not! (I can only imagine Cole was trying to take him to the potty to be with Mack!)

We are still looking for houses. Our cute little house next to Cole's school- well, I don't know what to say about it except, supposedly, someone came in and offered to pay a year's rent, cash, up front (fishy???) so whatever...I'm keeping my eyes, ears, and internet tabs open in search for that next house, and since we aren't in desperate-backs-against-the-wall-need, we're taking our time.

As I mentioned previously, Cole had a secondary evaluation with a developmental specialist. It started off when, a couple month's back, I was having his annual review with his AzEIP coordinator and Cole decided to throw a tantrum of monumental proportions (though, altogether, not uncommon for us) The coordinator and I discussed what I could/should do in this situation, and I thought that would be that. About a week later, she called and said she wanted him to be evaluated for sensory sensitivity. That evaluation basically consisted of me filling out 8 pages of "does the child avoid this...does he prefer this...does he only do this...does he avoid doing that..." and on, and on, and on. After about another week, I got a phone call saying that since his sensory reactions (everything from touch, taste, smell, sight, emotion, interaction, etc...) were so all over the place, they are going to send an Occupational Therapist out to work with him/me during speech sessions. We should start seeing her this week, and they are only planning on her coming out 2-3 times, of course, I guess that could change, depending on what she determines. So I will keep updating on that new development.

We also were able to get Costco to take back our 5 year old TV and give us a 63" Plasma. Don't ask how it happened, we are still quite unsure ourselves. All we can say is WE {HEART} COSTCO!!!

Cole has also started to say-in screaming fits of hysteria- only what I can interpret to be that I am the stupidest person EVER!!! (at least that is as much as I can understand) He also calls Dad a "bad guy." I don't know whether to laugh or cry at this- usually I do a bit of both- but I can say that I am more than glad he is talking, seriously!!! People still make comments about don't you wish he couldn't talk still, to which I reply, absolutely not!!! He has started calling me mommy (just in last few weeks) and when he says "i wuff ooo, mommy" there is nothing more precious or magical in the world. So yes, I will take being screamed at and called the stupidest person ever, if it means that I also get to hear the good stuff. We waited sooo long!

I know that there has been so much more going on, and for the life of me, I can't remember right now. Of course, as soon as I walk away from the computer, I will remember- but I will have to save it for another time! Meanwhile, I better go and check what kind of terrible mischief/messes/trouble my progeny has himself in- I can only hope that, perhaps, he has passed out on the couch...though, I'm sure, I won't be that lucky.......

CRAZY Month!

2010-05-04T12:57:00.000-07:00

So things have been a little crazy/hectic around here. Nothing major- just things that have kept me from being able to post.

Mostly it is the out of control, curious, rambunctious, and overall crazy 3 foot tall being that resides in my home. He still will not take naps, goes to bed late, wakes up early, and just keeps me constantly on guard. Although, if I take him to playgroup in the morning, he will occasionally crash- but its usually in my arms. And I'm sorry, but while my only child still wants to sleep cuddled up in my arms, by golly, I'm going to let him- and take full advantage of it, rather than spending that precious time blogging/cleaning/doing laundry, etc. Selfish, I know, but I want to truly enjoy every moment with this little person as much as I can.

I also have a lot going on with my MOMS Club right now- mostly me prepping the group for my imminent departure. I have been planning/prepping/executing the annual Open House (where we try to sucker in new members) and preparing/corresponding/and still need to execute the election process for next year's board. Its been pretty time consuming and I can't even begin to say how relieved I am that it is almost over. I have even made arrangements to get rid of the numerous file folders and containers of junk that have been cluttering up my home for the last 11 months! YEA!!!

Cole and I have also spent a few weekends in Phoenix, and Cole spent a weekend in Carefree. We have spent every other weekend touring Prescott in search of a new home. Yes, that's right, a new home. We are going to rent for at least another year (our current lease is up at the end of the month), and the owners of our current house have their house back east on the market, meaning they could be ready to move here at anytime (though they said they would give us three months notice). I however am ready to get out of this house. As much as I will miss the view and the overall size of the house, that is it! I am so ready to move on! I think Abe is a little more hesitant since moving is so much work, but we NEED a new house. We have our eyes on one right now- 1/2 acre, middle of town-and walking distance to Cole's school, fully fenced yard, basically everything we want in a house (minus being in the middle of the forest, of course- but that will come) and I am stoked! Both Cole and the dog need a yard they can run around in, I love the overall feel of it so much better than our current home, and we will have plenty of room for all our stuff- inside and out.

During one of our "touring" weekends, we visited the Wild Fire Safety Expo that was held downtown (for when we do, ultimately, end up in the woods.) Cole enjoyed all the firemen and trucks and there was a really cool Game and Fish booth with all kinds of wildlife (though it was kind of sad, because they were mostly animals that had fallen victim to wildfires.) We even ran into a friend- though we didn't know it.

That's our friend, Damian, in that suit. Damian is the son of Abe's dear friend, Bob, who passed away a while back. It was pretty funny cause the giant fireman leaned over to his handler, who then said to us, "he says to tell you that its Damian in here" We laughed for a good while and Cole got a tattoo of the giant fireman (which he was so proud of, and then devastated over as it faded away from his arm)
That was Cole after the expo. So funny! He was using the balloon as a kind of pillow. One plus, he did take naps as we all drove around town together!

On one of our Phoenix trips, my parents treated Cole and I to a movie- his first one. We saw "How To Train Your Dragon." Cole did pretty well, though his attention span shorted out {shock!} and he spent the last half hour or so climbing all over the bars (thanks to seeing his grandpa and uncle do it-we were in the front row where the rails are.) I can honestly say, I think he did pretty well for a 2 1/2 year old, and since he is under 3 and free- who cares?!

I also made an attempt at some Strawberry Freezer jam. Cole helped by building a "housh" (aka house) with the strawberries. I haven't tried the jam yet, since I had an opened jar I want to use up, and the homemade stuff only has a shelf life of 3 weeks in the fridge. I figured I can wait- but it looked and smelled super yummy...I'll let you know.

I also have been knee deep in crafts. I don't know if I mentioned, but I started a craft group in my MOMS Club, and being that I'm in charge, I have to force myself to be creative- which I LOVE (and is the only thing I will truly miss about the club, which is why I'm going to continue it with a select group! haha) Here's the latest project (I can't share others, since they will gifts!)- its a dry erase board made from a frame and some fabric. Super simple, cheap, but oh so cute! (Not my idea- I got it from a crafting blog I read, but so simple and useful- and SOOO much cuter than a store bought board!)

I also have other Cole issues going on, including a new evaluation from a developmental specialist this week- but I'll talk about that once I know if anything is truly going on.

Until then, I think that's a good summation of what we've been up to. I will update once I know what's going on with Cole, but that might be it for a while, since HOPEFULLY we'll be MOVING!!!

More Snow, A Little Update, and a Ranch Trip

2010-03-30T13:53:00.000-07:00

Well, it has been a crazy month at our house. So I will start where I left off. **To see the pictures better, just click on them. Some of Cole's expressions are priceless!

We have had several more snow storms, and are expecting another this weekend. Cole absolutely LOVES the "no" and especially "no baus" aka snow balls. That is, until his dad pegged him in the face with one. Seriously, it was up his nose, down his throat, a full on annihilation- totally on accident of course! Now Cole always talks about "no bau, my eyes, my nose, my mouf, ow" It's pretty funny.
Cole also still has to do WHATEVER dad does. He even wanted some of Abe's morning coffee so bad, that he gave him a cup (totally iced down, obviously). Needless to say, Cole won't be asking for coffee again any time soon!

Cole is still passing out regularly in the funniest locations. Here I caught him with the Cheetos and his face and hands were totally cheese covered.

Abe and I also took Cole to the Prescott Fire Departments 125th Anniversary Celebration (its the oldest fire dept. in AZ). Cole was in heaven! There were trucks and firemen everywhere (so, Mom didn't think it was too shabby, either! haha) Cole brought his own fire hat and held onto it for dear life, since every time Dad would convince him he could let it go, it would blow off his head!

This is his favorite location to crash- in his car seat! Hey- it was a tough day saying hi to all those firemen!

We also met with Cole's preschool, and he was accepted! He will start August 9 and go 3 days a week. He will have speech therapy while in school and they will even provide a bus if I would like (its a short bus, with built in car seats.) I have to go and meet with them again at the end of April to do "goal planning" (I've said it before, a bit ridiculous in the red tape department) but we are just so thankful that he will be able to go to such a quality preschool, get the help he needs, and it won't cost us a thing! Of course, since he has been accepted he has been talking an unbelievable amount, though I know by comparison, he is still pretty behind. But at the same time, it is so amazing to watch his progression.

We then made a trip to the Ranch this past weekend. It was Cole's second time, though it was really more like his first cause he was able to enjoy it so much more this time. The one drawback with this Ranch trip was getting there. With all the rain and snow, the river is too high to cross, and the very scary rim road is, well, very scary, so we had to take the back-back-way, which meant 3 1/2 hours of ROUGH dirt road (normally its only 2 1/2 or so) To kill the time, I bought a set of "dad's wook twucks" which I would give to Cole periodically along the way. It worked!

Here is one of our breaks/stops on the way in. (Don't mind Cole's outfit, he picked out his clothes that day. Abe actually asked if I wanted to change him before we left. I figured we were just going to the Ranch, and besides, Cole was so proud of his outfit!)

Two of Cole's 6!!!! trucks he got on the way in and out of the Ranch

Once we were all settled, and had eaten dinner, we were hanging by the fire barrel on the patio and Abe noticed this...

OH MY GOSH!!!! I couldn't believe it!!! Cole was pretty cool about it and spent the rest of the weekend talking about the "nake on my butt" (snake was easier to say than lizard, though he did attempt to say lizard a few times.)

Cole wasted no time playing in the dirt with his new trucks! Sporting Dad's head lamp and all!

The Ranch was in its prime. Virtually no bugs (one of my personal peeves of the Ranch), the fruit trees were blooming, not too hot, though it was a little windy.

With those conditions, a few more fruit trees were given a home in the lower orchard. Cole was a BIG help!

Cole also found a squirt gun in the pool toys. He would talk his dad into giving it a "drink" then proceed to pull out the stopper and drink himself. It was pretty gross!

The guys decided to give the water wheel a FULL blast whirl. Dozer, who has had a fascination with splashing water since he was a puppy, kept jumping down in the well around the wheel. Abe had just pulled him out for about the 40th time, and Cole decided Dozer needed to be shot (which was tempting for all of us!) Finally, the water wheel just got shut down, in hopes of keeping our stupid dog alive for the time being.

Cole also got in some serious dirt bike time. Not only that, but he had his first dirt bike wreck (which he still talks about!). Abe hopped off, propping the bike on the kickstand, to grab something. He heard the motor rev, tires spin, and turned just in time to watch Cole and the bike fall. He had accidentally left the bike in gear (instead of neutral, like he thought) and Cole decided to "drive" himself. Fortunately, there was no physical injury, just a little psychological injury to both guys. Abe said all Cole was really worried about was if he had "bwoke da bike" Ohhh, the things that concern two year old boys!

At least we had been outfitting Cole with his helmet.

He was such a proud biker that weekend!

He also got some serious "dad wook twuck" time in, which he later learned was a "backooo"

Here he is with his "uncle" Tim, posing for the camera

This is a few of the apricot trees. All the mature fruit trees had started blooming and it was really very pretty.

Cole even got to work the levers and knobs and dumped a few loads at the Ranch dump.

getting some Mom QT

Getting some dad QT

The whole gang at the fire barrel.

(I have to say, I do like the Ranch a whole lot more with a lot less people- and having our tent trailer there (Abe took it in a while back) made it even better!)

Both mornings we went and walked around the pond and quacked at the ducks.

I'm telling you, if there is a place greater than heaven, my little outdoorsy boy was there!

Any rock Cole saw around the pond became an instant victim to its murky depths!

As we were preparing to leave on Sunday, Cole decided to do a little more "work" with his trucks. He started like this...

...and ultimately ended up here...

One last ride on the bike. Notice his double hand wave to me.

Tim said he bet Cole would crash on the way home. I thought on that dirt road it would be impossible. I was wrong...

Cole was so filthy he got an extra long bath. His face has scrapes (from when he ran into a downed tree running away from Dad), his knees are bruised. His hands are full of slivers and splinters, but that little boy wants nothing more than to go back. I hear several times a day "da wanch, bakoos, dit bikes, twackoos, nakes my butt" Looks like I will be heading to the Ranch a lot more from now on, which as long as the camper is there and there aren't 40+ people, will be fine with me.

Cole slept that entire night when we got home (a HUGE deal for us!) and I think he was still so tired, I found him here...

Oh this kid! Though, I would take him back to the Ranch just to get a full nights' sleep again, for sure

Valentine's, Sh** and then some...

2010-03-03T15:46:00.000-08:00

So, February started off with Abe deciding to feed the deer that run through the yard, which turned into feed for about 100+ birds one morning (no joke- think Hitchcock, here), which turned into a shmorgishborg for the javelina. One night, we caught 9 of them going to town on the pile of food... (it's kind of hard to see, and a few were hiding in the bushes.)
Cole, being his father's son, decided he needed his gun...

He was so proud!

We then started off Valentine's weekend on Friday with a visit to Phoenix to meet with the "tax man," Bruce. Bruce works with my mom, and is the greatest tax man ever! We were pleasantly surprised with a refund which we weren't expecting since we have all kinds of new tax quandaries due to our Phoenix house.

We then made a detour to Carefree, where Cole stayed the weekend with Abe's mom. It was a nice little treat to have the little guy entertained by someone else for the weekend, though I missed him terribly! This was his 3rd weekend away, and I still have a really hard time not having him around. We were so excited to have him come home, we did Valentine's up right for him. Here is what he came home to...

The item wrapped in a grocery sack (courtesy of dad, and furnished with bows from mom) was a Hotwheels watch (he'd been eyeing his dad's new cool watch) and two betta fish Cole and I named Mack and Jack (two names I knew he could say)

He loves them!

We followed that with lunch with Paula and a relaxing rest of the day watching Mack and Jack trying to prove to each other which one is bigger and more macho (typical guys...there is a plastic divider between their respective sides, so they don't kill each other- because they totally would!)

Cole and I also caught colds- Cole first, then me.

We also finally heard back from the AzEIP people (unbelievably slow, those people are!) and we are meeting with the preschool March 11.

In Cole's speech world, Andrew quit- so we are meeting our new therapist, Cassidy, on Thursday. Cole has been making leaps and bounds with his speech. He has been using the actual words to name things lately {shock!} and has finally started to repeat words as he hears us say them. Which leads to my newest challenge

the word

s----h---*---t (that's for those of you who take more than mild offense to swear words {*wink*})

This was a word he heard exclaimed in our house while watching the Olympics (of all things!)

Typically, when he repeats something he hears us say, its a one time deal.

NOPE! Not this time. This word has become one of his staple words. He actually uses it now in place of words. Especially "no." Now, if you have spent anytime around Cole, you will know how much he says "no." Thanks to my two year old, I have learned that "no" and "sh*t" are TOTALLY interchangeable.

For example- car falls on the ground- Cole exclaims "oh sh*t"
I say time for a bath- Cole says "sh*t"

You get the picture, I'm sure.

My brother also taught Cole the joy of "shut up" which I hear just about every time I open my mouth to speak (unless, of course, he is saying the other s-h word.) He also screams "shut up" at the dog, and I even heard him telling off some old lady at the post office today who was asking her questions a little loudly for Cole's taste.

But how do we tell a little boy, who we have been waiting to talk forever, to stop talking. I try giving him alternative words (not including "shoot," I'm worried that will be too confusing for his developing vocabulary) and they work for that immediate instance, then, 2.32 minutes later, he's swearing again!

Oh well, it was bound to happen at some point, right? (Although, I had hoped, it would have been when he was like 14!) I just keep crossing my fingers that, while in public, people don't fully grasp what he's actually saying- though it is pretty stinkin' clear!

I have been trying to become more involved in my MOMS Club lately, so that has been sucking up our time again. Abe has been bombarded the last few weeks at work, which we think is great! Being busy = job security. This all on the heels of learning his previous employer is closing their doors. Very sad to hear.

On top of all that, last week I got to take Cole into Urgent Care, here in town, with a 104.6-105.1 fever. This time, the much nicer, and appearing much more competent, P.A. diagnosed him with double ear infections (his first EVER!) and swollen tonsils. He was put on azythromiacin, to avoid a possible penicillin reaction again, which was AMAZING (one dose a day for three days- so much easier to remember!) He was pretty miserable to be around for several days, but is 100% again, and we are now HUGE fans of Urgent Care!

He is taking naps about 30% of the time, and still succumbing to his exhausted body another 20%. I found him passed out on the couch with a bag of Cheeto's just yesterday. Oh this kid! He keeps me on my toes for sure!

Snow much fun!

2010-02-08T13:38:00.000-08:00

****Evidently, Blogger has been having serious issues with video. Check back, as they have promised a "fix."

About a week and a half ago, my brother and his friend came to visit and we took Cole sledding. This is something Abe and I have wanted to do for a while, but we haven't gone and bought a sled yet, and the snow sticks around here for such a short amount of time, we just haven't had the chance to take him.

Fortunately, my brother's friend had a few sleds, so they brought them up and we went in search of snow. There was still a fair amount of snow on the ground in the woods for us to sled on, however, it was packed and icy- not the safest sledding conditions (but, fortunately, everyone made it home fairly unscathed.)

The biggest surprise was that Cole loved it! The first few times he went, he went down with my brother. Then my brother and his friend convinced me that Cole could do it himself...and he did! Now this is shocking because a) I allowed him to do it and b) he is normally such a crybaby about stuff like that, that he won't do it. Granted, we did have to force him on the sled a few times, but once he was moving, he loved it!

I still feel awful that we went out without Abe (he had headed to the Ranch/hunting), since it is something we have wanted to do for a while, but am glad I was able to take Cole, just in case we don't get enough snow again this year to go out again.

Here is a video of Cole's last/longest/highest run. Sorry its a little shaky, but my brother launched him right at me, so I had to scurry out of Cole's speeding path. Yes, I was absolutely terrified every time he went, and my heart would stop briefly in anxiousness, but he had a blast, and in the end, that's all that matters. (BTW- watch closely and you will notice Cole caught some air on a few little bumps- so scary for Mom to watch!!!)

Christmas 2009

2010-02-03T12:16:00.001-08:00

So I'm finally getting around to Christmas (Cole is in watching Little Einsteins, so I have a few minutes!) We did our "normal" routine of Christmas Eve at my family's and Christmas Day with Abe's. Here are some highlights:

The whole gang- notice Cole's pose, which he struck all on his own!
The first present of the holiday!

A box!

Nope, its pajamas!

Cole helped Aunt Brittany make cinnamon rolls for Christmas morning (he LOVED Aunt Brittany!)

So much so, he followed her the the restroom!

See, she's in there!

Cole saw his "stash" Christmas morning and came running in before I could stop him! This was the only picture I could get before he made contact with his presents!

WOW!

Dozer got in the action, too. Of course, Cole had to help.

Cole was so entertained with his car table he would move the presents we would hand him out of his way. See them back there on the ottoman?

Aunt Brittany then came over to show him his other gifts, and he became MUCH more interested. Because it was "Mee-ney" and he wanted to do anything involving her! He continued to ask for her for weeks after Christmas!

Done with Santa gifts, now onto the gifts under the tree- including the GIANT box with Cole's name all over it!

It was a basketball hoop- which like everything else, now has a home in his playroom!

Here was his haul at my family's. Such an attitude!

We then got him all cleaned up and headed to the Geupel's. And Cole's spoiling continued... haha

He got lots of goodies, including "balls"- or Whoppers. We had to hide the box and then Abe and I had to replace them with more about a day and a half later.

Cole also decided to open the rest of his Santa presents. He just wanted to play rather than open them. Can you blame him?

Cole's new train table! He was so excited for "choo-choos"

And a train set to go with it!

Loves it!

All in all, it was a great Christmas. It took Abe a SOLID 45 minutes to unload the truck and we spent all the next day cleaning/purging the playroom to make room for all his new toys. Oh the joys of being the only grandchild!

Well, Little Einsteins is over, and I can hear noises that are NOT GOOD- so that is it for Christmas. It was great as always!!!

January TwentyTen

2010-01-26T14:16:00.000-08:00

I know I still need to post about Christmas, and I will, it just wasn't really any different from anyone else and we have had a fairly busy January.

For starters- Cole still refuses to take naps, which in turn causes me to panic while frantically running around the house looking for him, only to find him in places like this:

He also likes to make his own "beds" using items like blankets, pillows, Dozer's dog bed, the couch arm covers, etc (all of which can be seen here:)

We had a visit from Gaga, my mom and grandparents came up one Saturday, and we also made a trip or two into Phoenix.

We also have made countless visits to Fuddruckers (which opened recently up here and is known around our house as "ball...guns...moose...boats...eat...cheese" )

Cole got to go on one of Dad's and Gaga's hunting excursions- and took his "gun" in case he saw a pig (insert snorting noises- since that is how Cole refers to pigs)

After his hunting excursion, when Grandma and Great Grandma were visiting, they found it only appropriate to outfit Cole in camo like Dad, along with his new "boots" that Abe and I got him. He's ready to go!

In the midst of all this, Cole has had two evaluations and a hearing test. He did fine on his hearing test (which we knew he would) and I am still waiting to find out how he did on the two evals. Then I will meet with the preschool and my coordinator to see if he qualifies for the developmental preschool. While he is talking a lot more, he is still way behind for his age in language (like 6-12 months, I think) so I'm keeping my fingers crossed that they will accept him and he can get the help he needs to catch up.

We also, like the rest of AZ, got hammered with weather last week. Including about 5 1/2 inches total of rain and a good 2 1/2 feet or so of snow...which has kept us (well, Abe really) busy clearing snow, sliding around in our cars (I actually was sliding on ice this morning still!) and giving us plenty of opportunity to play! I'm not going to caption all the pictures- they're kind of obvious, but I will point out a few favorites...

Abe thought the dirt bike would be fun in the snow, Cole enjoyed Dad riding, and was pretty bummed out when he didn't get to ride too (we didn't think it was too safe for him this time in all the slickness.)

This was Friday afternoon. We had gotten 8 inches of snow Thursday morning, which got washed away by 3+ inches of rain. It was crazy and oh so enjoyable (who would've ever thought that I would say that!?!)

Dozer got in on the fun too, though he would chicken out often and have to be "rescued"- of course, who could blame him? He would completely disappear in our footprints! Love the snow dingleberries!

Cole thought helping Dad shovel snow was awesome! Notice the tongue sticking out in concentration!

Sporting Dad's gloves

This is Jack. He was the snowman we built Sunday morning. Cole loved Jack!

Then I think Cole thought Jack was a vampire and impaled him in the heart with what was going to be the nose! We laughed and he got embarrassed.

Cole also got a super cool new toy from the neighbors (they had 3 and decided Cole could use one!) (which, by the way, does not drive in snow well. haha)

After Jack's impalement, and utter demise in the sunny front yard...Cole and I built Jack #2 in the backyard yesterday. He is still standing, but the sun claimed his face this morning. Oh well!

So that's it for January. I did try to resign from my position as President of MOMS Club, but my supervisor has temporarily talked me out of it (long story). Abe was hunting every weekend, but sadly, to no avail. Dozer is quickly making himself eligible for sedatives (he's so spastic, it is making us loopy!) and Cole is, as ever, making us laugh, making us crazy and overall just making life perfect! We're pretty lucky!

Zzzzz

2010-01-11T14:06:00.001-08:00

I know I haven't posted about Christmas yet, and I will, but lately, Mr. Cole has decided it is thoroughly unnecessary for him to take naps. Since he's still an overly active, growing little person, he still requires them. It has been a battle of unbelievable proportions (between him and me, and between him and himself), so that is why I haven't posted recently- I've been chasing/calming/cleaning after/attempting to control an exhausted two year old. Once in a while, his body wins, and he crashes- hard! Here are some of the more classic positions I have been able to capture...

Love the hand down the pants!

here, I could tell that he was lunging at the back of his chair to watch his movie, and his eyelids succumbed

Oh yeah, he has decided that stamp pads make for great makeup!

I couldn't get a better picture of this one, since he was so close to the side of the climber

He realized the previous position wasn't too comfortable, so he moved to under the slide

He totally tucked himself in here, which he rarely does, so it was noteworthy- with his new blanket from Grandma and Grandpa, by the way

This has to be the most classic! We were just glad he didn't fall!

100.

2009-12-17T13:21:00.000-08:00

This is my 100th post. This is a huge, monumental feat in the blogging world (though it has taken me a little longer than planned to get here!) And me, wanting to give my centennial moment the absolute glory it deserves, have been overly fretting, mentally writing my century post in my noggin for weeks (2, I think, to be exact.)

For such a momentous occasion, I decided to write about what has had the most momentous effect on our lives right now- Cole's speech.

Now let me start by saying that this is probably the single most asked about topic in our lives currently, not to mention the most commented on in social settings. You can not begin to fathom the frustration (on our end and Cole's) of having a late talker unless you have been there. Having such a precocious, rambunctious, and curious little boy who can not express himself is more disheartening than one can begin to understand. There is also nothing equally as frustrating as those (who think they're being quippy or cute) who make comments such as "Oh, I wish my two year old couldn't talk!" or "Once he starts talking, you'll wish he never had." Again, if you haven't been through this, you can do little to begin to understand the frustration and then the utter relief I feel with EVERY single word this kid speaks. In my world, every single word (small or big, but mostly small still) is an enormous accomplishment. Nor can you begin to understand the constant thread of doubt/guilt that weaves its way through my thoughts causing me to wonder if there is more I could have done, more I could do, or more I should have done better.

That being said (*sigh*), Cole is still receiving speech therapy once a week. He had his 6 month reassessment in October, and was determined to still require services. Then, a week ago, I met with his coordinator about beginning the transitioning to preschool process, since it is quite the ordeal, and we have to start relatively soon (January).

What makes this all so momentous in our lives right now, is the fact that Cole has been making leaps and bounds the last 8 weeks or so. Now, all you with normal speech pattern children, might think that means he's talking. Well, not quite. He is however up to over 20 words (HUGE! for us, since he started speech therapy with only 3- and those 3 he had or over a year!) and has recently been able to tell me stories through a series of words, sound effects, gestures, and prompt questions from me.

I can't even begin to tell you how awesome this is!

I was actually able to find out all about his night alone with his dad from him! (I was at a cookie exchange) I asked a lot of yes/no questions, but he was able to answer! (He's been saying no for a while, but just recently started saying "yup"- like in the last 2 weeks. HUGE!) He told me where they ate dinner, how the video game he likes was still broken- but they raced boats instead and knocked over balls, how he watched movies, ate popcorn (it was "hot" by the way) and played with dad. Of course, it was not in so many words, but for the first time EVER, I was able to have an entire conversation with my son!

We are also finally to a point where he can (in one way or another) communicate to us what he wants, whether its to "eat," watch "ball" "vroom,vroom" or "choo choo," or even tell on Dozer "oh no, maaa (that's me!) Dozer EAT"- usually at lunch/snack time, when Dozer has run off with Cole's unattended food.

We are finally making noticeable progress, and I can't begin to tell you how good it feels.

We, of course, still have a VERY long way to go, and a couple of speech delay disorders to completely rule out, but we are on our way.

I have never been so excited nor had greater anticipation for incessant talking.

Now, if only I could teach everyone else what he's saying...

Thanksgiving weekend picture OVERLOAD!

2009-12-02T12:47:00.000-08:00

So we had a fabulous Thanksgiving weekend as always. It started with a trip down the hill to the Geupel's for an amazing Turkey Day feast (courtesy of the Geupels and Hartmans). So YUMMY!

Cole couldn't resist being outside...
...nor could he resist splashing in the pool!

At least it was a gorgeous, warm, Arizona fall day!

He also decided to help Gaga with some work...

We went to the zoo the day after Thanksgiving with my family.

We took a trip on the zoo "train"

Checked out the super active monkeys in the Monkey Village

Cole tried to get an up close look at the orangutans. Good thing Grandpa was holding on so tight!

We visited the newest exhibit of Komodo Dragons (just glorified alligators, if you ask me)

(no I was not allowing Cole to play with the dragons- its just a statue outside the exhibit)

However, this tractor had to have been the highlight of Cole's trip (of course!) Anyone familiar with the movie Cars should know about tractor tipping, which happens to be Cole's favorite part of the movie. Cole repeatedly yelled HONK! while playing on the tractor and laughing!

(This is something he does with all his toy cars, too. Everything gets honked at and then tips backward!)

Saturday, we had an amazingly relaxing and lazy Saturday. We did go to Wally World to see if there were any left over deals from Black Friday, and wouldn't you know it, in our small town, there was! We scored a great price on a Blu-Ray player, which I am stoked to go buy Harry Potter 6 on my birthday next week and enjoy the "Blu-Ray Experience!"

Sunday, we started pulling out some Christmas decorations, and then decided to go do our part with helping 'thin the forest.'

We actually found this beauty about 50 yards away from where we found last year's beauty

(top secret spot, not telling where, but know that the bottom of the tree we cut last year is doing wonderfully, and we even noticed one of its neighbors that had been cut is actually flourishing!)

Cole, being keenly aware of his dad's axe wielding skills, took cover! haha

As Cole would say- Ta Da!!!

My son is really into weaponry (wonder where he gets that from?) and decided the axe made the perfect gun to shoot me with. I find this somewhat disturbing...

Although Cole was so cold that he was UNCONTROLLABLY shivering, he was more than devastated that we were leaving the forest...

I know I should not be as entertained by this as I am...

HAHAHA!!!

Good thing Dad found a rock...

Whew! And a stick. All better!

We had to change tree locations this year, since I moved the piano to the tree's home from last year.

Boy is it a monster! LOVE IT!!!

Probably the highlight of Cole's entire weekend was his acquirement of my brother David's old TV. (David scored a TV at his own Black Friday Sale).

Abe and I had been under the assumption that the TV in our bedroom had taken its last breath, only to realize when going to install my brother's TV, that the power cord was just hanging by a thread- you know, just enough to occasionally give the TV power and then have it go out 30 seconds later. So our TV is back up and fully functioning, so Cole inherited my brother's.

He is in heaven!

This could end up being a problem, huh?

To pry the little man away from "Vrooom Vroom, Honk, hahaha" (Cars) for a minute, Abe let Cole pick out and hang the first ornament on the tree.

Of course, he picked a Tonka ornament and then a "ball"

This wasn't technically from the weekend (Monday, after speech, actually) but Cole refused to take a nap that day, was being an absolute stinker, so while I tried to get a few things done, he asked to watch "Vroooom, Vrooom, Honk, hahaha" and I came back 5 minutes later to find this...

I made the mistake of waking him up about 45 minutes later (it was 6:00pm for crying out loud!) and he was an absolute stinker the rest of the night. However, he slept until 9:30 the next morning! AWESOME!!!

All in all it was a great Thanksgiving weekend, yet again, and we could not be more thankful for it. Nor could we be more thankful for this little guy who is the light and joy of our lives!!!

A Recap of Not Much

2009-11-17T13:27:00.000-08:00

I haven't posted for a while, because not much has been happening. We've been at home the last few weekends (so nice!), Cole and I haven't been going to a whole lot of MOMS Club stuff (long story), and we have just really been pretty boring lately!

We did take Cole to a Sundogs game a few weeks back. Sadly, none of the pictures we took turned out too well. He enjoyed it a lot more this time, and even started cheering toward the end. More than anything though, he spent the evening scouring the stands for "Burnie" the mascot, and would emphatically point him out to Abe and me, until we would acknowledge his find.

Lately, Cole's favorite activity is this:
I even suggested to Abe to "walk" Dozer at the same time. It worked! I didn't witness it, but I can only imagine Abe balancing Cole, tugging a yorkie on a leash, while zooming up and down the street. Too funny!

Cole did sustain his first "black eye." Fortunately, it didn't get too black, and was actually cleared up by the next morning. He had been screwing around, trying to run away from me trying to get him dressed, while in his footie pajamas, sneaking behind the chair in his room, and walking on his books (something I have discussed with him relentlessly to be not okay). Needless to say, he slipped on a book and did a face plant then slide down the wall. He cried, I lectured (feeling no sympathy), only to realize later that morning, he had indeed been hurt (and then feeling terrible that I hadn't been more sympathetic.) Oh well! I tried to warn him! (Abe and I are of the parenting philosophy that we can only tell him so many times, and he will just figure it out for himself once he ends up hurt. Like last night, with him slamming his pinkie in the door to the garage... live and learn, live and learn.)

Black eye and all, we decided to visit Dad on another job site. Shades included. Too bad we forgot the hard hat!

Yesterday I left Cole in his room to take a nap. After hearing him run about a bit and then hearing silence, I went in to check on him. I had a moment of panic when I looked in his bed and he wasn't there, only to find him here...

Shortly after, I heard some whining, because he had woken up to relocate to his bed and found his sippy cup to be empty. Crisis averted, I filled the sippy and he instantly fell back to sleep- for another 2 hours! Love it!

Today we had our Thanksgiving Feast for MOMS Club. I spent HOURS yesterday cutting out and preparing pilgrim/indian head dresses, pilgrim collars (boys and girls), cutting up veggies and turkey, only to have Cole decide that the stairs were more fun! Fortunately, I brought all the stuff home, so he will eventually have both hats, and then I will take pictures.

We are heading to Phoenix for the weekend, and then with Thanksgiving next week, I should have much more exciting stuff to talk about soon!

Halloween

2009-11-04T12:16:00.001-08:00

Well, the Candy Man made his appearance. I was a little worried, because when we arrived at our friend's house on Halloween night, Cole wanted nothing to do with his costume. But fortunately, after some good playing with friends, he allowed Abe to dress him for Trick or Treating. As you can see, I also whipped up a cane, which I think is what peaked Cole's interest in the whole thing...

Most people, at first, thought he was the Mad Hatter. When we would explain that he was Willy Wonka, they would start laughing hysterically, and then exclaim that they hadn't seen that movie in about 20 years- to which we had to reply that we hadn't seen it for about 20 minutes. Haha!

Cole ultimately got really into Trick or Treating. He would wait for his friend to say 'trick or treat' and while the unsuspecting treat giver would be handing her her candy, Cole would reach into their bowls and help himself. What was a mom to do? It was pretty embarrassing, but everyone got a good laugh at his cavalierism. He walked the entire time, refusing to be carried ever, and insisting on carrying his bucket the majority of the time (which got pretty darn heavy!)

Halloween was also a big day for Cole because he got a BIG BOY BED!!! Cole has a crib that is one of those convertible types (crib to toddler bed to full size bed), so I had planned on just using that. However, upon learning the prices of all the conversion kits, and realizing that I could buy a brand new toddler bed for less than the toddler conversion kit, which would probably be much more enticing to a two year old to have a NEW big boy bed, rather than a converted crib,
I have been pricing them out and checking Craig's list. (though we still plan on purchasing the full size conversion kit. I picked this crib specifically because it does not look like a converted crib when it is a full size bed)

Well, ironically enough, I had found one on Craig's List that I was going to place a call on, and then Saturday morning, our neighbor stopped by. They were cleaning out/redecorating their son's room and were going to be taking a bunch of stuff to Goodwill- including a RACE CAR bed (way cooler than my Craig's list find)- would we be interested. Abe said absolutely, and we walked down to their house and scooped it off their porch instantly. We brought it back up to our house, gave it a good wipe down, and made it all up. Cole was SOOO proud! Here he is showing off his new racing digs!

That night he slept for almost 6 hours straight (which is HUGE for us!) Of course, that could have had something to do with his two hours of trick or treating! But he has stayed in the bed beautifully ever since. He doesn't even attempt to get out without me coming in to get him! Our neighbor came by on Sunday to see how he was doing, and when I mentioned him staying in it, she made the funny comment that her son was the same way, almost like they are kennel trained from being in the crib. So now, we just hope Cole will keep his 'kennel training'!

What do you get...

2009-10-30T13:56:00.000-07:00

when you take all this...

add one of these...

and a ridiculous amount of this?

Just about the stinkin' cutest Willy Wonka EVER!!!

If I do say so myself!

Now here's to hoping he will actually wear it on the big night!

(Since he wouldn't wear it for his Halloween Party)

And hoping, even more, that he won't want to wear it in public after that!

5 years ago today...

2009-10-23T14:43:00.000-07:00

I married my best friend.

I know, this is the same collage as last year, but you only have so many wedding pictures, right?

Yes, Abe and I have been married 5 years, today. Sadly, I am not spending our anniversary with him, but with my other (and equally) favorite man, Cole, since Abe is out gallivanting in the wilderness with at least 3 other guys.

Marrying Abe was the best thing that I have ever done (next to becoming a mother, of course.) He is absolutely amazing, totally supportive, puts up with me and my ridiculous baggage (that's right, I have baggage- who doesn't?), and is the most incredible partner I could ever have hoped for.

He does his best to make me happy (which can be a pretty demanding job, I'll admit), and most importantly, he loves me. He is the world's best dad, and I could not be more thankful for all he does, all he gives, and all he is!

I love you, Abe! Happy Anniversary (though you won't see this until at least 5 days from now! haha)

Weekend Fun

2009-10-20T13:19:00.000-07:00

This past weekend, Abe and I celebrated our 5th anniversary. Technically, our anniversary isn't until this upcoming weekend, but opening day for deer season comes first (that was totally a joke, I just like giving Abe a hard time for ditching me on our anniversary!)

Abe and I spent Saturday in Jerome. We visited the old ghost mining town, walked around the little shops "downtown," toured the 100 yr old stage/cinema theatre that they are restoring (very cool), and then had a fabulous lunch at The Asylum (the restaurant located in the Grand Hotel, which used to be the Verde Valley Hospital, and is known as one of the most haunted places in the country-totally up our alley!) We then headed back to our beautiful town, took a scenic drive through the pines and checked out what can only be described as our dream house, and then went to dinner. We had dinner at the 129 1/2 Grill, which is this cute little jazz restaurant downtown. We laughed at some lady that had drank too much and was enjoying the music even more, we had great food, and finished off the night with more movies (we watched a few Friday night, also). We also went to breakfast Sunday morning at Wildflower. All in all, it was a fantastic anniversary weekend!

Meanwhile, Cole was spending his first ever weekend away.

Friday afternoon, John, Paula, and Paula's dad, Pops (who was visiting from Ohio), came and took the little man for the weekend. We all went out to dinner, then they drove away with my kiddo in the car. I will admit, it was rough for me. I always thought I would enjoy having him go away (and getting a break), but I really, really missed that stinkin' kid. And (I think typical of parents) everything Abe and I did all weekend, we would say how Cole would love this, or we'll need to bring Cole here, or make the sound effects that Cole makes when we would see fire/garbage trucks and motorcycles.

However, while I was a little sad he was gone, he was having a grand ol' time (and being a perfect little boy on top of that). Here are some pics of his weekend festivities (courtesy of John and Paula)

Carving his own pumpkin with Gaga.

Reading books with PG.

Watching movies.

Hanging by the pool (it was 102 out!)

And baking cookies!

Of course, you have to wear a hard hat for such manual labor!

Here is one of several videos they took. I just though this one was funny, and totally captures Cole and his personality.

Of course, once they brought him home on Sunday, he turned back into his little "devilish" self (which we had been worried that he would be while he was away!), hasn't slept at night more than an hour and a half straight (having only woken up once a night while he was away), and been screaming, yelling, and crying pretty consistently ever since.

But darn it, I'm glad he's home

Abe wants to try to send him back for a month!

Bowling

2009-10-13T15:02:00.000-07:00

Tuesday I took Cole bowling with our MOMS Club. He really enjoyed it the first 3 frames, and then had a total two year old melt down, including SCREAMING, running for the fire alarm door, playing in the water fountain, playing with the cups and water cooler they had set out, slamming locker doors, you get the picture.

I think, ultimately, he had a good time, and was actually quite the little bowler (he got 103 the first game and was at 60 something the second game before he flat out refused to bowl anymore!)

How stinkin' cute are his little bowling shoes?

Patiently (yeah right!) waiting his turn.

For those of you who have never been bowling with a two year old, this is how they do it.
(Watch the video for a better idea. Cole is OBSESSED with this video, which is the reason I assume that he enjoyed himself!)

Pumpkin Patch 2009

2009-10-12T13:28:00.000-07:00

Sunday morning we took Cole to the Pumpkin Patch. Unlike last year, this year I located an honest to goodness field of pumpkins. A bring-your-own-cutting-tool-and-assume-all-risk-and-responsibility-for-lost-limbs pumpkin patch. I think Cole thought it was fantastic, though we had to stop him several times from hurling the smaller pumpkins (and hoping all the while that no one saw!) He ultimately picked his own pumpkin, though on the way out of the field, he did try to hurl it a few times, and pick a new one. He picked a great little pumpkin though, and was so proud!

He insisted on holding his pumpkin all the way home. Of course, once we got home, we had to keep him from hurling the pumpkin at Dozer (which I think he did a few times!) Obviously, we are dealing with some throwing issues, but what more could we expect from a two year old boy?

Music to my ears!

2009-09-30T13:40:00.000-07:00

I was able to catch Cole doing his AWESOME cover of "oompa loompa" today! Enjoy!

Touch A Truck

2009-09-28T17:03:00.000-07:00

Saturday, I took Cole to the Touch A Truck event in Prescott Valley. Basically, it was a little boy's paradise. They had everything from fire trucks and semis, to construction trucks and a military grade Hummvee. Of course, there was Cole's personal favorite- the garbage trucks. They had the trucks set up for the kids to climb around, play on, and honk the horns.

I can't even begin to tell you the squeals, gasps, and giggles I heard from the backseat as I pulled up to the event to park. Then, once Cole realized we were headed to the very spot where all these trucks were, he was beside himself. Marching his little legs and swinging his arms with such determination, headed for the glory of all glories (the garbage truck) with the greatest of anticipation, until, about two feet from the back of the truck, some stinkin' kid blasted the air horn! Cole jumped a mile high, latched on to my leg, and spent the rest of the morning with a death grip on my finger.
I did manage to get him into the garbage truck, briefly, and had to snap this picture quick, before he did his leap to safety into my arms!His little pointer finger was going a mile a minute, and as we were leaving, the Waste Management folks made his day/week/month/year! We walked up to their table and I explained to them how, as much as he loves garbage trucks, his true obsession lies with garbage cans. You know what, they gave him a miniature Waste Management garbage can, complete with lid and wheels (his two favorite parts!) Let me tell you, that little boy did not drop that can for hours! It was the first thing he wanted when he awoke from his nap, the first thing he went for Sunday morning, you get the idea. He instantly (and I mean, in the car, on the way home) figured out that his new garbage can was ideal for holding beverages (he poured half his cream soda, which he got as a "prize" for getting all the "trucks" signatures, into the can, and then drank from it!), it was an even better location for his sandwich and snacks, and best when used to carry cars! He was so proud to show it to his dad the next day, and it just absolutely has thrilled him beyond all belief.

The only thing that would have made it better is if Abe had gone with us (he was in Phoenix for the day), because Abe could have helped him get in and out of trucks, shared in the excitement, etc. All in all, I think he had a great time- minus the air horns, of course!

I'm back

2009-09-22T13:17:00.001-07:00

So- I've been away for a while, and oh the amount of things that happen when one takes a break. I won't bore you with all of them. Cole and I took a trip to Utah with my family (I may post pictures of that later), I started a blog for my MOMS Club (sorry, its private), Abe took a trip to Alaska, I have been dealing with endless amounts of drama (boring to talk about), and helping with my upcoming 10 year reunion. Cole and I also took cookies to the firemen on September 11, as part of a MOMS Club function, where Cole made friends with the firemen and got his very own (plastic) helmet! He was in heaven and now yells hi at the station (which is down the street from our house) all 4+ times a day that we drive by. That's just what I can think of right now, though I know there was so much more!

Cole has started saying several more words including but not limited to, MA- FINALLY!!!, "hops"- for when he's showing off his awesome hops, and "housh"- house. He sings the "oompa loompa" song from Willy Wonka- his new obsession (he doesn't sing it well, but he gets the gist of it), and he has become an expert eye roller- which is so hard to not laugh at! He has also been consistently saying "plis" which is so hard to turn down, though he still won't say please when you ask him to. He is definitely quite the entertainer, and makes me laugh most of the day!

We also went on a MOMS Club "camping" trip this past weekend. We stayed at a KOA, hence the quotes around camping. We'd never been to a KOA before, and it was interesting. I think it would have been ultimately enjoyable if it hadn't been for the I-40 within throwing distance, and the railway, not far beyond that, keeping us up most of the night. We did have a good time though, and really enjoyed getting to hang out as a family, too.

Cole had fun. In an effort to try and "pack light' I neglected to bring toys- I know, WHAT WAS I THINKING??!!?? I guess I figured there would be stuff for him to do, and kids to play with, so carting toys was unnecessary. Abe ended up pulling out his tool kit and letting Cole play with his tools- he enjoyed it way more than he would have his toys, so it all worked out.

Dozer taking a break on the cooler.

Cole still playing with the tools- notice the "tongue of concentration"

This is one of Cole's friends from playgroup. He's a bit bigger than Cole, so I had to assist with the teeter totter momentum.

These next few are from our MOMS Club potluck dinner. We sure had quite the turn out!

Cole kept running up the ramp at the Kabin next door, and jiggling the door knob (a cabin which I believed was occupied. Poor people, dealing with my obnoxious kid playing with their door and running around on their porch, not to mention the gathering that formed just outside their door!)

We finally gained control by doing this...

Shortly after, Cole came up, told me bye bye, shook my hand (which he picked up from a TV show) signaling he was ready for bed. Really, he was ready for this...

Dozer taking a break on the luggage.

Breakfast in bed.

(This really wasn't his breakfast, more of a morning snack. We went and had real breakfast at a cute little diner in Williams. Notice he pulled the DVD player into bed with him,too!)

We needed to get the camper packed up, and needed Cole wrangled. This was what we came up with, and as you can see, it was pretty devastating!

Thinking about making a break for it...

Before the other MOMS Club people began arriving, we broke down and bought Cole some toys at the little KOA convenience store. Here he is playing with Dad.

I apologize

2009-08-26T09:53:00.000-07:00

I will be taking an indefinite leave of absence from blogging for a while. I am hoping to return to blogging sooner rather than later, but for now, apologize for this brief absence. Please check back often, as I am unsure as to when I will start again.

Thanks for checking in, and I hope to be back up soon.

A little of this, a little of that...

2009-08-12T13:01:00.001-07:00

I took Cole in for his two year check up (only a month late this time, he was "sick" remember?). He is the same, healthy little boy that he's always been. He's about 24 lbs (small, but still on his increasingly skinny curve) and 33 1/2 inches. His head is still enormous at just around 21 inches (that's huge!), and besides not talking, seems to be hitting all other 'milestones'. He also received one booster shot, and I was encouraged to bring him back next month for a flu shot (which I absolutely will do.) I took him back to his Scottsdale pediatrician (best decision ever) and relayed to her our whole story of ups and downs. By the end, she was rolling her eyes and snickering at the whole ordeal. I have decided that from now on we will make the trek. The poor kid was so traumatized by everything that happened here in Prescott, he had a very hard time warming up to the Scottsdale doctor, and hysterically screamed if her hand even approached him. She was very patient (and understanding) with him, and that absolutely reaffirmed my decision to continue with her practice.

So with all that behind us, we are now preparing for a trip to Utah with my brother and parents. I'm still scrambling as to how I am going to keep Cole entertained (and content) in a car for 14+ hours, but I think with enough pit stops, and enough toys of course, he'll do fine.

So until we get back, I probably won't have much to update with, so until then...

Station 71

2009-08-06T13:53:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, I took Cole to tour the fire station with my MOMS Club.

We started out in the lobby, with all their antiques (just like everywhere else in this town- tons of antiques! It's kind of cool though.)

This is fireman Conrad. He had the foresight to dress is in his garb in front of the kids. He said he had made the mistake once of dressing in the hall and then walking in the room with a group like ours, and swore he would never do it again. Even as it was, the kids were all still pretty freaked out (Cole wouldn't let go of my leg!)
After touring the rest of the station (it was pretty small) we went to the garage to check out the truck, with lights ablaze (sirens, again, wouldn't really have worked well with our group of youngins)
Needless to say, Cole finally became impressed.
But then he found something more intriguing...
...a helmet he may be able to snatch for his own!(He didn't, of course.)

They let the kids walk through the truck, and I was surprised that Cole actually did it and actually enjoyed it!
Although he wasn't too sure about fireman Conrad helping him out.

Photo Op!

Again, something more interesting (according to Cole). He also wandered around and found the basketball hoop, the forest service tanker, the FD's quad used on trails (there's a lot of remote stuff up here), and everything else that he really shouldn't have.

The firemen pulled out the fire hose, and inadvertently had water leak out the bottom of truck. Of course, all the little boys went running and splashing.

Cole just thought they were hilarious!

At the end, each kid got a "Firefighter badge." Cole was pretty proud.

And then he went and took his own turn splashing and running through the puddle.
Cole and a great time and was super mad at me when we left, making sure to emphasise the fact he didn't have a helmet (by motion, not words, obviously). He cried practically the entire way home! What was really funny though, was last night, before bed, we read one of his books about fire trucks, and he instantly started signalling about the helmet again. I couldn't believe he remembered! I think I take for granted his comprehension level, since his expressive level is so lacking. Cole has picked up a few new words, though. He started saying "plis" for please on Saturday (of course he said "plis" about 50 times Saturday, and has hardly said it since, especially when prompted to), and then Monday evening, started saying "up." He has been using that word more, and even said "up" when seeing the ladder on the side of the fire truck.

Abe and I swear we hear him saying other things on occasion, but then never hear them again. Andrew, his speech therapist, thinks Cole seems to be making some progress, though. He is definitely jibber-jabbering, the precursor to talking (better late than never, I suppose) and is making movements with his mouth that he wasn't in the beginning. We'll see (though I still have my fingers crossed to have preschool taken care of for him through the AzEIP)

Happy Birthday

2009-08-04T13:24:00.000-07:00

to Abe!

Yesterday was Abe's birthday. Cole and I took him balloons to work (I think we succeeded in our ultimate goal of embarrassing him!). Ironically, Abe picked the exact moment we were getting out of the car to go to his car to get something, so he ruined the surprise, but only a little. Cole still got to carry them inside and leave them in Dad's office.

Then Abe chose to have me make him fish tacos for dinner (I had offered to take him out, but fish tacos were what he wanted) I googled a recipe and they actually turned out really stinking good! If I hadn't made them and knew it was fish, I never would have guessed it!

I also made brownies. Abe's not a huge dessert guy, but I knew he would eat at least one, and that Cole and I would enjoy the rest. Sadly, I think our candles are still in a box somewhere (we never officially unpacked everything- especially things we don't use often), so I settled with Cole's #2 from his party (I totally spaced buying new ones while we were at Target yesterday, due to the fact Cole was having a COMPLETE meltdown!) Although the #2 was appropriate since Cole insisted on getting his dad an Elmo birthday card for a "big 2 year old" (we altered the card with some Sharpies to reflect Abe's true age- 34!!!!) I know this pic's a little fuzzy, but Cole was attempting to help Abe blow out the candle! Too cute!
I think Abe had a good birthday (I hope he did, at least!). Cole and I got him 2 new pairs of shoes and a new Camelpak water bottle. We also were down in Phoenix, Saturday, and were able to meet his mom for dinner in Cave Creek. It wasn't too shabby, and we can't wait to embarrass him more next year!

Michigan- Part III- the finale

2009-08-04T12:39:00.000-07:00

So this is it for pictures I have. Like I said before, I know there are some others out there, but this all for me.

Here we are enjoying the traditional Geupel cocktail hour before dinner, complete with Schuler's cheese (think Handi-snaks cheese, but for grown ups). Cole even got in the cocktail action with a JuicyJuice.

Cole also got to ring the dinner bell in the dining hall that evening. It's a very momentous occasion, followed by applause from all patrons already enjoying their meals.
We also caught a lucky break in the weather that evening, and were able to FINALLY take Cole out in the Boston Whaler (aka boat)

Here is all suited up...

...and going to catch up with Dad.

He wasn't too sure at first.

His one moment of pure elation, and I just so happened to catch it!

Of the entire week, this is the ONLY picture I have of Cole and myself. I have got to get better about that!

Abe turned the steering wheel over to Cole. We went around in a circle for about 5 minutes, before Abe finally took control again.

This was Cole's preferred mode of transportation around the cottage. Who needs a stinkin' stroller?

Cole really enjoyed getting to play with his cousins once they finally arrived from England.

(I guess, technically, they are Abe's cousins, but with a generation gap.)

We also had a brief memorial for Abe's grandmother the morning we left. The family decided it only fitting that her resting place be the place she loved most, and placed her ashes beneath a White Pine sapling.
Here is the family, in near entirety.
All in all it was a great trip. We had so much fun and are so grateful to John and Paula for making the trip possible. And also, just as grateful, that Ben was able to make the journey with us, although, I think that much time with Cole has made him certain to never have kids of his own...we'll see. It was a once in a lifetime trip (since Ben probably won't ever make it back) but we can't wait to go back next year!

Cole's Health Update

2009-08-02T15:10:00.000-07:00

Cole shakin' his groove thang, 4th of July.

I realized (after many people asked me in person) that I never followed up on the "Cole" situation.

His blood culture came back completely negative. The Benadryl really worked (aka made Cole sleep) only the first night, but did seem to ease his crankiness, and so was given to him the proceeding 5 nights (I was trying to be thorough- and maybe get a little extra sleep, haha- that was totally a joke, I'm not one of those moms who dopes up her kid unnecessarily!!!). His rash is completely gone, and we have been back in the swing of things.

After much internal debate, I have decided to take him back to his Scottsdale pediatrician for his 2 year old check up. I haven't taken him yet, due to the fact he was sick, and then I was debating on whether or not to continue with the practice here in Prescott. We go there next Monday (the 10th).

It was just truly frustrating speaking with 4 different doctors on 5 different occasions, and all having differing opinions. So, for now, I think I'll just make the 200 mile trek (hey, at least I can write off the mileage!)

Michigan- Part II

2009-07-31T13:56:00.000-07:00

On one of the few sunny days we had while in Michigan, we were able to go golfing at John and Paula's Club. This was Cole's first time on a golf course (he and I just rode along in the golf carts) and he loved it!!! This kid has always been into golf- huh, wonder where he got that from?

Here is a picture of the Clubhouse. It is a beautiful place.

Cole kept himself entertained in the dirt along the greens. Here he is carrying some dirt...

...and then dumping the dirt on a bush, just in case it didn't have enough.

Running through the greens.

Watching the guys tee off with PG.

All the Geupel boys in their carts.

Cole grabbing a quick snack. (Good thing I brought some!)

PG caught a caterpillar and put it on Cole's hand. I don't think he cared for it much, but was a good sport once he saw me pull out the camera. He seemed pretty relieved once I was done taking pictures and Paula took it off his hand.

I think he really enjoyed his first golf trip. He didn't have a single meltdown until the 18th hole, and then holy meltdown. We ate lunch at the club after, and he was totally passed out before the food even made it out.

Cole also took in some rousing games of ping pong back at the cottage, though I think he may have been more of a hindrance than anything. He wanted more to participate than to spectate.

And for some reason, all the extra balls kept disappearing.

It's exhausting being a spectator!

Dad and Cole, walking back from the dining hall.

Michigan- Part I

2009-07-29T13:47:00.000-07:00

After scrolling through all my pics from Michigan, I have decided I should do a multi-part post. There were just so many good times to document- and I currently only have my pictures. I know that John, Abe's dad, took some really good pictures and I'm pretty sure that Abe did too. But, for now, here are the start of mine:

I'm pretty sure I've mentioned, but Cole has an obsession with planes. Although this was not his first plane ride, it is the first where he could understand what was going on.

Abe had to force him to turn around and look at me- he was so interested in what the ground crews were doing.
And then immediately upon take off, we hadn't even levelled off yet, he was out!
"Hello? We've landed!" Of course, he was just pretending to talk- kid still doesn't talk, remember?

Helping Dad with the luggage.

We had to make a pit stop at a rest stop, due to the fact none of us could stand to listen to Cole cry much longer (we had a 3 1/2 hour drive from Detroit to Higgins Lake, which is where we were visiting). He really enjoyed chasing the seagulls in the grass with Uncle Ben.
That first morning, Cole and I missed breakfast, since Cole was still sleeping (its a 3 hour time change! and we didn't get to the cottage until well after 11:00pm). He was upset with me for some reason here- big surprise!

After breakfast, he made his way out onto the dock for the first time. Here he was throwing rocks with Gaga.
...and then making a break for it!

Heading back down to the lake with the fish net, but catching Uncle Ben on the way.

Dad, Gaga, and I made a trip into town and got Cole his very own "fishing pole." He thought it was so cool!

Checking out pictures of himself on the computer with Dad and PG
Gaga joining in the fun!
Well, that's it for part I, and that was just the first day! More to come...

Buggin!

2009-07-28T14:37:00.000-07:00

I still need to post about Michigan, but I just had to get this off my chest.

I hate bugs! Like really hate bugs! I hate everything about them. Their creepy crawliness, penchant for darkness, venomous natures and stingers, their jumping and flying- yup, everything about them! And, for some reason, everywhere we have lived we have had some sort of bug problem.

Our apartment, it was cockroaches- cliche, I know.

Our Anthem house, it was scorpions. LOTS of scorpions. We used to "hunt" them at night, as a precaution for Dozer (a dog his size can die from a good sting). From Memorial Day to Labor Day (prime scorpion time), we killed over 300!!! It was awful!

Our Phoenix house wasn't too bad. Although, we would get a ridiculous amount of ants and mosquitoes- both are not my friends. Not to mention flies and bees. But nothing too out of the ordinary.

Now, here in Prescott, its crickets and centipedes. Not just any crickets (like the unobtrusive ones from when I was growing up), but the ENORMOUS black crickets (and some brown) that end up in the most inconvenient places- walls, ceilings, dresser drawers, the legs of pants before I put them on (those last two caused me to scream like the little girl that I am. I mean, seriously, how do crickets end up in drawers and pant legs?!?) But what has made me write this is the friggin' centipedes! We get them pretty regularly- not like the scorpions- but enough to make us question their origin, and enough that, at night, I try to turn lights on before entering rooms and hallways.

Last year we actually had a centipede in our bathroom sink (drinking from around the drain) that Abe missed killing before it made its mad dash down the drain, so we dumped a crazy amount of bug spray down the sink (I know, not good for the environment, but what would you do if you had a 6+ inch long, dime sized around, effing centipede in your sink?) About a week later, the stench of decay that filled our bathroom was INCREDIBLE! Who knew a dead bug could rot like that? Of course, this was the disgustingly large centipede from hell, so I guess it only makes sense. Abe ripped the sink apart trying to find it, and determined that it was trapped (and rotting) in the overflow trap. After pouring copious amounts of scalding hot water down the overflow, the stench of decay eventually disappeared.

Sunday night, in my state of paranoia, I turned the light on in our bathroom, thinking we were due for an unexpected visitor- and wouldn't you know it- there scurried one along the wall and into the closet (undoubtedly looking for darkness). As I frantically looked for something to smash it with it disappeared. I have now decided that there aren't many bugs on Earth creepier than centipedes- not even scorpions, in my opinion (having been excessively exposed to both). Centipedes have these grossly elongated, segmented, snakelike bodies, but with terrible pointy legs attached, and don't forget their venomous fangs, and antennae like appendages on both ends, making them all the more creepier.

Then last night, going down the hall to switch laundry to the dryer, I saw my disgusting, snaky, little friend scurrying down the hall. I am telling myself it was the same one from the night before, because if not, I wouldn't be able to sleep at night. I quietly called Abe (I'd just put Cole down) and watched while Abe grabbed a shoe and the creepy crawly met his demise! I stood over his squished body, enjoying his last feeble twitches, and then the sound of my hero (Abe) flushing him down the toilet.

I told you- I HATE bugs!

What the...?!?

2009-07-21T12:57:00.000-07:00

I know it's been long-time-no-post, but with good reason. For one, we were in Michigan for a while, and two, I have been dealing with the medical melodramas of Cole.

It all started July 1st, when Cole began running a 102.9 fever. This was startling, because this kid has never been sick, never run a fever, nothing (with the exception of a small cold he had in February, but he didn't even have a fever then!) This continued well into the night, only being helped by Tylenol briefly, and eventually peaked at 105!!! I took him into a pediatrician here in Prescott the next day, and they couldn't find a single thing wrong with the kid and his fever had come way down. We figured it was just a freak viral thing (it had been going around)

The following week, on the 8th, he started running a fever again. Rather than wait it out (and have it get super high again), I took him back to the doctor. This time they noticed some swelling and pus on his tonsils. They took a strep culture and put him on Amoxicillin, just to be safe.

Friday, the 10th (and day before our trip), the doctor called and said the culture came back negative, but they had me take him back in since he was still running a fever. At this point they decided to do a blood culture, and some other blood work (which Cole just loved and made me a wreck), and told me to go ahead and keep him on the antibiotic, because it wasn't going to hurt. So while frantically trying to get ready for our vacation, I was running all over Prescott to the doctor and then the lab!

Saturday, the 11th, upon arriving in Michigan, I received a phone call from one of the doctors he had seen asking me to call immediately on her cell! Now, I don't know about you, but I have never been given a doctor's cell number! I called back and she said the lab had called and bacteria was growing in Cole's culture. At this point they were still unsure what kind, but I should be ready to take him to the hospital. I explained we were in Michigan (although I thought they understood that, and that that was the reason why I had already brought him in 3 times that week!) She was shocked that I had left Prescott, and wanted to know where exactly we were so she could determine if we would be close enough to quality pediatric care (she was thinking Chicago). Of course, at this point, I was mildly panicked.

Monday, the 13th, I received another message to call the doctor's office immediately. This time they informed me that Cole's culture came back positive for staph bacteria and I needed to get him back to the lab ASAP to do a follow up culture. Again, I explained I was in Michigan. Again, shock on the other end. However, they said tests showed it was amoxicillin sensitive, and to go ahead and just keep giving him that, however, if he started to run any sort of fever (99 or higher) to take him to the ER immediately, and as soon as I got home, to take him in for another culture.

Saturday, the 18th (the day we came home) I noticed Cole was a little pink in the cheeks, but still no fever (it had pretty much been nonexistent since the previous Saturday). I chalked it up to the fact that we left the cottage in Michigan around 7:30 am AZ time, and didn't arrive home until 11:00pm!

Sunday morning, the 19th, we woke up to find Cole very red in the cheeks, and very spotty/splotchy allover. I gave him a bath (we had skipped this the previous night due to the time) and noticed his "spots" were a whole lot worse than I initially thought. He also had two very swollen scrapes on his knee (which he got while in Michigan). After much debate, I decided to call the on-call nurse at the pediatrician's office. At first, she told me to just wait till Monday to take Cole in, but then when I started relaying Cole's recent history, she told me to go ahead and take him to the ER. I mentioned that he had just gone down for a nap, so I would take him after a while. The nurse called back about 10 minutes later, and said, on second thought, she didn't want me to wait, and go ahead and wake Cole up, and take him in now.

At the ER, the doctor walked in, said oh, looks like an amoxicillin reaction, but his knee doesn't look right, wrote him two prescriptions, and left. (that was so worth the $500+ that that info's going to cost!) On the one hand, I'm grateful it wasn't anything worse (because it could have been a WHOLE LOT worse), on the other hand, it would have been nice if the doctor had looked at Cole up close versus the 10 feet he stood from the poor kid! (I should mention though, as soon as Cole saw anyone wearing scrubs, let alone a white coat, he was HYSTERICAL!!! I told you his blood work had been fun- and I guess traumatizing!)

So yesterday, I took him in for the follow up blood culture (again, so fun, but I swear, for a kid who's not talking, at the end of the draw he was yelling "I done, I done, I done!" So sad!) and this morning I took hm back to the pediatrician for his ER follow up. Today, however, the doctor said, its really more like hives that he's got, in addition to the measles-like rash from the amoxicillin. He also thinks his knee sores are nothing more than giant hives, and to stop the ER doctor's medicines, because they may actually be doing more harm (and cause more rash) than good.

So, now at this point, I have a major headache, and still, no one can tell me what the heck is going on!!! We are still waiting to hear back on the culture, and the doctor wants me to hold off on any meds, with the exception of Benadryl, if I so choose, just to help Cole be a little more comfortable, because we can't imagine he is just not itching to death. He wants to see if he gets any sort of fever again, so that way, we may be able to locate its origin a little easier. But in the meantime, I'm just thinking - what the...?!?

I will post about our trip later.

Up, up, and away... and its Over!

2009-06-29T14:11:00.000-07:00

This past Saturday, we had Cole's birthday party. Fitting to the little man's obsession, we had an airplane theme. The invitations were boarding passes...
I made cupcakes and spray painted wooden aircraft (and found Oreos with the same color icing as the cupcakes)...

I stamped table coverings with planes, captain wings that said "Big Boy" and of course, the number 2...

We went all out on food, and ordered pizza and wings, too...

We had airport theme signs (and a Logo sign that matched the logo from the invite)...

The bathroom and restricted access sign

Of course our gates and terminals were all "2's"

We had "arrivals"

and "departures"

And, of course, had planes and clouds hanging from the ceiling! I even ordered one of those planes you hang from the ceiling and it just flies around in circles!

We had wooden gliders and airplane shaped suckers for favors and I sent the kids home with cardboard "wings" to decorate and wear on their arms (like they were planes)...

We had lots of good friends (about 30!)

We also decorated foam airplanes...

Here was Gaga helping Cole with like his second or third plane!

It was all very exciting!...

Cole got tons of cool gifts (including a book of "Insults and Comebacks," just what every two year old needs, haha)...

I also made his FABULOUS shirt!

He was so excited about his new bike from his great grandparents and my parents, but isn't quite tall enough for it yet...

But who needs to reach pedals when you can just put your feet up on the frame and have dad push you around?

I think his favorite part may have been the helmet. I was trying them on him one day at the store, and he has been obsessed ever since.
He wasn't too sure about the candle on his cupcake.
But the next day he found an even better use for his helmet. He wore it while riding the 70 with dad!

All in all we think he enjoyed his birthday party. Sadly, we had friends get stuck on I-17 behind a fatal crash (3 people were airlifted, 2 of them died), so one family turned around and went home, one's journey turned into a 2 1/2 hour trip (our same friend who watched a helicopter crash the last time he came up), and another family's journey turned into a 4 hour affair! We were glad they still came, rather than turn back! We loved having everyone come, and I was so grateful for the help I received with decorating and setting up from family!

Happy Birthday, Cole!

2009-06-23T12:58:00.000-07:00

June 2007

(Yes, he really did sleep like that, and yes, he sometimes still does!) June 2008
June 2009
(Doing his cheesy camera smile!)

I still can't believe my little boy turned two yesterday! (and I commend my husband and myself for getting him there!) Two years is really such a small amount of time, yet it feels like he's been a part of our lives forever! He is such a joy and I spend the majority of my day in fits of laughter at his antics- that is, of course, when I am not in fits of displeasure at some of his other antics. Like, yesterday, we started out the morning with a "beautiful art project." Now, Cole did not get in trouble for this because a) it was his birthday and b) I had forgotten to get rid of the darned calligraphy ink after the last episode! Although, this time he was much more creative and dipped a foam brush into the pot and proceeded to "paint" the mirrors. He was so proud and I only realized what had happened once he became distressed at the ink on his fingers and came to show me. Oh well!

We didn't have much going on yesterday, our speech guy cancelled on us (again!) because he had family in town, so I took Cole to In-N-Out for a burger and chocolate shake!

I also managed to talk Abe into taking Cole to Macayos for dinner (after our last breakfast episode, I didn't think he would, but finally he agreed). Cole loves chips and salsa, and I was hoping they would maybe sing to him (he would've loved that). But, I think, due to the fact that there were literally like two waitresses working, the singing was a no go. Oh well! He'll get sung to at his party this weekend!
Can you tell Cole takes his chips and salsa seriously? He even took the salt shaker and dusted his chips (I'm going to blame the observation of that bad deed on one of my siblings, though I'm not sure which one, cause I'm pretty sure they all do it)

He was certainly hamming it up last night, and he even started jamming out once we left the restaurant to the Jack Johnson song that was playing outside.

We haven't gotten his "big" birthday present yet (I know- we're pretty bad about doing things on time- but hopefully soon!) but we did take him to the store and let him pick out whatever he wanted. The garbage truck won (of course! He still has an unnatural obsession with garbage/garbage cans/ trucks, etc.) He was so excited! He has been saying "hi" and "bye" (his new word he started Sunday) to the stinking thing all day!

So overall, I think he had a great day (chocolate shakes, chips and salsa, garbage trucks- what more could a boy want?) It still makes me sad to think how much he's growing, and that he's becoming a little boy, and not my little baby anymore. Plus, I think with him not talking, it makes it more difficult to not keep thinking of him as my baby boy. A friend of mine said it best this morning- He is now a one year old with experience! And I don't think I could have summed him up better!

On a side note, it was also Dozer's birthday this past Friday (the 19th). I remembered on Saturday, so I was only a day late this year (that's the best I've done at remembering in at least 5 years! Poor dog!) He is now 8 years old. Again, so sad to think how much he's grown and all he has been through with us!

We also had a great Father's Day. Abe just wanted to stay home this year, so Cole and I woke up and made him breakfast burritos (complete with eggs, potatoes, onions, jalapenos, green chilies, bacon and of course, cheese) and then finished off the day with filet mignon, new york strip, and LOADED twice baked potatoes! Cole loves his dad so much, and we are so lucky that he is such the awesome guy that he is!

2009-06-18T13:32:00.000-07:00

I haven't had a chance to download pics lately, but I wanted to give a quick update. We made an impromptu trip to Phoenix last weekend, and have still been trying to recover. I have been coming down/getting over something, which has made our recovery a little slower than normal. Cole has been his normal, rambunctious self. I am currently trying to finalize his birthday party arrangements. I took Dozer to a groomer here in town (he's there as we speak, and I'm a nervous wreck since he's been going to the same groomer in Phoenix for over 7 years!) so, we'll see how that goes. But the best part is its the middle of June, and we have not even considered turning our A/C on!!! How fantastic is that? When we went to bed last night, it was 58 degrees outside!!! It's been nice not having it be so hot, but it would also be nice to be able to take Cole to the pool/splash park without worrying if he'll get sick from the cold! Oh well, better than what we've been used to with those Phoenix summers!

2009-06-09T12:44:00.000-07:00

This just about sums up our weekend. It was one of the busiest weekends we've had in a long time. We started off Friday with a play group, then nap (Cole never seems to nap as long as I would like him to!), and then went with Tim and Katy to Skull Valley (little town about a 30 min drive from Prescott, 2003 census puts the population at 525!!!- that's the size of my graduating class!) where Katy's old roommate owns the only cafe and serves dinner every other Friday evening. The food was fantastic (almost all of us ordered prime rib, since there were literally 4 options, one of which had sold out) and I am sure we will go back some time in the future.

Saturday started off with a trip to the farmer's market at Yavapai College, where Abe's co-worker has a stand for his BBQ business. I bought some hummus, fresh pita chips, and Cole and I shared some peach cobbler from the BBQ stand.

We also got a phone call that morning from some Phoenix friends (aka Abe's old boss) saying that they were up for the day for their son's baseball game in Prescott Valley. We swung by and watched a little of the game, caught up with each other's lives, and chased Cole around the bleachers, into the bull pen, and off the field.

Cole obviously didn't even make it out of the parking lot before he was asleep. While he napped I got ready for my Mom's Club Banquet (big party at the end of our "year" where everyone said thank you to the old board and hello to the new- although, sadly, most of my board was unable to make it!) We met at a mexican restaurant downtown and all had a great time! I even won a door prize for having the most interesting/entertaining story. We were supposed to write down something about ourselves (old or recent) that no one would know, and then guess who belonged to each. I told about the time when myself and two friends faked our own abduction, including ransom requests, when we were 14, as an April Fool's prank, and got grounded for a month (I thought this would be an entertaining anecdote in a group full of moms, and I was right!)

While I was at the banquet, Abe's old boss and family came to the house to check it out (they were impressed with the view, but who isn't?) and then they, too, headed downtown for dinner. They went to the Palace, and, as I understand, had a great time. Cole loves whenever he can get some extra attention, and it sounds as though he did. After I got home, we made a "quick" trip to a friends house to pick up Bob's old quad. We ended up being there a little longer than I had anticipated, but enjoyed the visit and acquired a quad (broken or not!)

Sunday morning, we went down to Lynx Lake and had breakfast at the cafe there. Cole was being his usual terrible two self. Abe really doesn't have patience for that sort of thing, so we ate and left, skipping Abe's intended walk around the lake. We came home and spent the rest of the day, trying to recover from the weekend and having a mini-Star Wars marathon. Cole enjoyed it (surprisingly!) and would go and grab his light saber (a gift from Lance and Ady) during every fight scene, saying zzzssshht, zzzsshht, with every swipe and stab. (the pic above is from him finally succumbing to his exhaustion during one of the movies)

It was an exhausting, yet entertaining, weekend, and we are counting down the days till the next one.

Speech

2009-06-02T16:13:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to update that Cole had his first speech therapy session yesterday. I guess it went okay. The guy, Andrew, just brought a bunch of toys and tried to encourage Cole to at least make the consonant sounds for some of them. I think Cole's opinion of the whole venture was more of a "forget you, now could you just leave the toys and go?" We'll have to see if it goes any better in two weeks since Andrew will be on vacation next week. He also says he may not bring as many toys next time, to hopefully keep Cole's attention a little better.

I also just wanted to mention I scored an awesome coupon to Old Navy in their weekly scavenger hunt. I've been trying for a few weeks, finding only mediocre coupons ( $10 of $50 purchase, 25%, etc.) but this week I scored $50 off a $100 purchase!!!! I'm totally psyched and proud of my sleuthing! Just wanted to share!

Boy for Sale

2009-06-01T13:43:00.001-07:00

2007 Model- not even two years old! Still has plenty of years in him.

Runs Great! Sometimes a little too well, actually.

Very low maintenance- ah, who am I kidding?

Been immaculately maintained- all check ups and inoculations current

Ride can be a bit bumpy sometimes, nothing a time out won't eventually fix.

All reasonable offers will be considered.

Does need some extra cleaning and requires extra supervision

Cole got into something, yet again! This time it was a long forgotten bottle of calligraphy ink (from when I addressed my wedding invitations!) Here's the thing, this kid knows he's not supposed to be doing these things! When I went in to check on him (again, I was checking my email while trying to get ready to rush out to playgroup), as soon as he saw me, he went running away as fast as he could! I'm pretty sure he has ruined his new shirt, but fortunately he took the cushion off before he dumped the bottle's contents on the bench. He did drive a few of his cars through the puddle, and did try to "clean" off his hands on the carpet. It looks as though Spot Shot may have saved the day, yet again (I really should write a testimonial to those people!), and fortunately wiped off the bench pretty easily. His fingers (and mine, for that matter) are still black, as well as his hair, nose, and tongue ( don't ask me how that happened!)

He really isn't for sale, OBVIOUSLY- but I am threatening him with Craig's List now instead of the baby drop!

A little of what we've been up to...

2009-06-01T13:28:00.000-07:00

This won't be an elaborate post, just a quick update.

Cole playing in the park at playgroup. He loved this motorcycle, and would climb up on it by himself (it was nearly as tall as he was!)
A little girl at playgroup brought her doll and stroller. Cole and his friend, Drew, would take turns pushing the stroller while the other walked in his wake. It was too funny!

Sunday, Paula came to visit and we swung by Abe's bridge (which is quickly approaching completion!) Here's Abe and Cole checking it all out. (In the distance, you can just make out the Fann Yard, and Abe's office is just on the other side)

We had our first snake (well, at least that I've seen) on Sunday, also. It was just a baby bull snake (Abe said there was a full grown one in the storage space beneath the house, when we first moved in). I was just grateful it wasn't a rattler, our neighbor was in their front yard shooting at one with a pellet gun when Cole and I were out of town a few weekends ago.

That's pretty much it. Pretty uninteresting- sorry!

Finally home- at least for a while

2009-05-28T14:00:00.000-07:00

Cole and I spent another weekend in Phoenix (Abe went to the Ranch). We were very fortunate to attend a family friend's wedding, which was absolutely beautiful, and spend some more time with Grandma, Grandpa, and Cole's Favorite- Uncle David. Cole even got to "hang out" with David and his two friends Sunday night, and thought he was just the coolest!

Here was Cole boogying down at the wedding. I had a better picture of him, but accidentally erased it while trying to rid my poor camera of the ridiculous pictures my sister took of herself and her husband. Oops!
I also just had to throw in another of Cole's awesome activities. Thursday, while I was working on packing so we could leave Friday, Cole thought it a good idea to get into my mascara. It took me a second to realize what he'd gotten into from across the room, and I was even more excited to realize he had smeared it into the bench cushion and carpet!!!
Doesn't he look pretty? So, then Friday, as I was piling stuff up next to the door to be loaded into the car, he went through my bag, pulled out my tooth paste, and proceeded to squeeze the tube allover himself, the now naked bench cushion (I had taken the cover off to wash out the mascara), and in the beds of some of his construction trucks!!! Oh well!

It's been raining a lot in Prescott lately. The late afternoon showers that roll through, dropping the temperature 10-15 degrees and has Dozer running for cover (poor dog hates storms). Its great weather (better than the 100+ temps of Phoenix) although I'm hoping the lightning stays away this year!

I also had all my MOMS Club info turned over to me today. Basically 20-30 lbs of papers (half of which, I'm told, I will probably never look at) and 4 totes of supplies (at least its in totes!) So I guess its officially official, and I am the new President. I have some ideas that I hope people will like (I've never been one to do things the easy way!) and am just really hoping that this won't be a time sucking mistake. All in all, I am looking forward to a good year!

I am also heading into crunch time for Cole's birthday. I've finally got an idea pinned down, now I'm just hoping to get everything in motion!

So like I said, we're back, for now, and hopefully I will be able to post more often, since this 3 foot tornado in my house is doing something new everyday!

This is a video of Cole doing Itsy Bitsy Spider with me. It was not his best performance, but you'll get the idea. I sing songs like this to him while getting ready for bed, hoping he may hold still, if even for a moment. Last week, he actually started doing the motions with me! I was shocked! Enjoy!

Fun fun fun!!!

2009-05-21T14:06:00.000-07:00

Like I said, it was a busy weekend- so here's a little slideshow of what went on. Cole had a fantastic time, getting all the attention he could want and more! I also made Cole his own blanket, with the help of my grandma, and my mom even helped, too! We watched David graduate high school (which made me feel super old!), and went to our friend's birthday party, where Cole jumped his heart out! It was a great weekend overall, and we are looking forward to our trek down there this weekend, too, for a wedding and some more grandparent/aunt/uncle attention!

Here's a video of Cole in the jumping castle! He was having so much fun and we were having to fight with him, trying to get him inside to cool down a bit (it was so stinkin' hot!) However, Cole's resourceful, and would sneak back outside, with out our knowledge, with all the people going in and out of the house. Next thing we would know, he was back up in the castle, jumping up a storm! He would crash so hard into the floor, and just get up laughing! Abe finally went in after him at one point! Cole, of course, loved that even more!

Oh, this kid!

2009-05-21T13:06:00.000-07:00

It's been a while since I've posted, and we had so much go on! Here's just a few pics and a video of my goofy kid!

Doing his face for the camera!

And here he was goofing around in his "fort"

Here is Cole's new favorite past time- removing his pants! He usually just takes them off and runs around sans pants, but this day, he decided they belonged on his head instead!

Here's the video of his "pants-head". He did this completely on his own! How do boys come up with this stuff? By the way- this is how he ran outside to greet Abe when he got home- one shoe and no pants!

Mother's Day

2009-05-12T12:09:00.000-07:00

We had a fantastic weekend, and a beautiful Mother's Day, making our quick little day trip to the Valley. We started off Sunday with brunch up at Desert Mountain with the Geupel's (at the clubhouse we were married at, which is always nostalgic) at the best table in the house. We were at the end of the dining room, with essentially our own private balcony. We looked over the golf course, and Cole was thoroughly entertained watching the greens keepers, and then the golfers. We couldn't have asked for better entertainment, or view, and will hopefully be able to score this table on future visits, since Cole was so entranced and enabled us to enjoy our meal. (I forgot to take pictures while at the club, so hopefully I will be able to get some from my FIL!)

We headed down to my parent's for dinner, for my dad's annual Mother's Day feast. He made his spinach&cheese stuffed chicken wrapped in fillo and roasted vegetables. He kind of cheated this year and bought a cheesecake rather than baking dessert, but he did make a homemade strawberry sauce to go with it. My dad has always gone all out on Mother's Day, by cooking some fancy meal. He has started to just make my mom's favorites now, but when we were growing up, he would study cookbooks for weeks, planning out his perfect menu. The food was delicious, as always, and we timed out the day to where we were able to make it home well before dark, which was a fabulous first. We even made a quick detour and drove by our Anthem house on the way home. It made me kind of sad, it was such a great little house. It looked fantastic! (someone's been taking good care of it)

While my dad prepped dinner, everyone played with Cole, of course. He did everything from shooting baskets outside (not for too long, since it was a nice 104+ degree day!) to playing grocery store with Grandma and Great Grandma. Uncle David then pulled out his "newly customized" scooter (oh the things an eighteen year old will do with spray paint), to Cole's utter delight. Cole even managed to hitch a ride.

My brother then remembered his other scooter, which he lowered the handle on, and then Cole was in complete heaven. Everyone tried to show Cole how to ride it himself, but I think he figured- why do all that work when David can just push me around? Smart kid! We are heading back to my folks this weekend for David's HS graduation, and to spend some QT with my other brother and his wife, who'll be visiting from Texas.

Of course, Cole had to make sure to "smile" for the camera!

Like I said, fantastic weekend, and Cole and I are looking forward to our very busy social calendar over the next few weeks (graduation, birthday party, hair appointment, wedding, MC election, MC banquet, and hopefully some speech therapy before too long!)

Smile!

2009-05-07T12:50:00.001-07:00

Cole has started "smiling" for the camera, when asked. Here's what I get when he does:

Should make our next family photo session interesting!

Cole at 22 Months

2009-05-05T12:52:00.000-07:00

This post is really just so I can remember all that this little person does... for right now!

Things have been pretty boring around here, unless you count the constant screaming/crying/whining/laughing that comes with having a 22 month old.

Cole is definitely coming into his own lately. He is still only saying his three words (Dad, Dozer and no) and has greatly perfected his use of 'no'. For a long time, he would just yell no at the dog (we must yell at the dog a lot, poor guy!), but lately he says no to everything! Ask any question and you will more than likely hear some intonation of no- from soft and defeated to loud and protestable. He is definitely getting his use out of this word, and making us laugh all the while. He also recently started saying uh-oh, so if he is not saying no, he is saying uh-oh (he's still working on the correct usage of uh-oh, but sometimes gets it right!)

He makes me laugh about a hundred times a day, and yet has me wanting to rip my hair out at about the same rate. He loves to try to help with everything (getting dressed (he will actually bring me underwear, shirts, and shoes while I'm getting ready in the morning), dishes, laundry, cooking, cleaning, feeding the dog, refilling our drinks (he helps me push the buttons at the gas station and helps Dad by "pouring" his sippy cup into his if its empty), placing groceries on the counter at check out, "organizing" the groceries in the cart- although this usually causes me more headaches than not, and helping Dad with whatever he can get his little hands on), though he typically causes more work in the end. He loves- and is obsessed- with everything "Dad"! At the grocery store today, in fact, as we walked past the liquor section he just started (and kept) screaming for his "Dad". I have to remind him constantly that Dad's at work, to the point that when we read books at night that mention work, he says "Dad?"

He is very clever and seems to pick up on everything! We have become very careful about what we do in front of him, because even though he won't repeat what we say, he definitely copies our actions! He has to imitate everything his Dad does, most of what I do, and he has even taken to going out on the deck with Dozer, popping a squat, and pretending to do his 'business' alongside him (even looking between his legs and around his backside to see if anything has 'happened'!) This is actually a very hysterically funny event, that I will really try to get on video! He loves going on the deck with Dad and his very own binoculars to glass for animals (though he has no clue that's what he's doing) and just spending every minute he can with him. He also becomes a completely emotional wreck anytime he watches Abe drive away from the house, which breaks my heart, and becomes equally excited upon his return. He is also Abe's "biggest fan". Sometimes he is mine, but he is super impressed with all his dad does, and applauds every action. He is also a huge fan of himself, clapping enthusiastically at all he does.

He also loves to "dance." His signature move is a stamping of his right foot and then he will occasionally sway side to side, and follow that with a pivoting on his left foot. He will also rub his fingers together saying "tch-tch-tch" in place of snapping his fingers (again, a funny moment I need to get on video!) He especially loves to dance to "Handy Manny" songs and will even try to "da da-da da-da" to the music, and also mimics sounds he hears in other songs. He is also a jumping fiend, and is either jumping on (and off) the air mattress in his room (long story) or jumping/galloping around the house, laughing all the way!

He is also obsessed with all things cars/trucks! He plays with his cars the majority of the day and especially loves to use Abe's and my legs as his roadways. He thoroughly enjoys Abe playing trucks with him and the two of them will drive trucks and make operating sounds for hours! He has certainly developed quite the motor sound repertoire, if nothing else, and loves nothing more than getting new cars! He is also obsessed with garbage cans. Not the ones in the house, but the big ones on the street. He spends his Fridays in a state of panic in the window of his play room, staring at the cans in what he feels to be a precarious spot on the curb.

All in all, he is the joy of our lives and the purpose of my existence. I melt every time I look in those incredible, blue eyes (screaming or not) and am so grateful he is all mine (and, I guess, Abe's too!)

Random Happenings of the Week

2009-05-01T13:01:00.000-07:00

Monday and Tuesday were pretty normal, with not much going on, so Cole and I did a little shopping and laundry, you know, the usual. With the addition of Cole doing this:

Now anyone who's a papercrafter knows that those are Glue Dots. For those who aren't papercrafters- those are Glue Dots. Glue Dots are one of the best, strongest adhesives for crafting on the market, and Cole thought it a good idea to roll my Glue Dots across the wood floors! (I guess I should just be grateful that he opted for wood and not carpet again!)

Here's my gathered ball of expired Glue Dots. They weren't too bad to pick off the floor, although my fingers were pretty raw after from the constant pulling off the glue.

Cole also developed a love of corn on the cob this week. Here he had finally picked it up, but before this and before I could grab my camera, of course, he was eating it with no hands off of his high chair tray.

I had asked him to smile for the camera and this is what I got- goofy kid!

He wouldn't smile anymore, but I just thought that this was a cute picture, plus you can really see the spices from the corn allover his face!

We also had our first Mini Mozarts playgroup this week. It's a class that my MOMS Club is basing on a music class offered in town (which costs about $140 for 6 wks, but ours is free, of course ) where the kids get together and bang on instruments, sing songs and dance/march around. It was a lot of fun and now that we have our official CD with all the songs on it, we can't wait to learn them for the next class. I also went overboard with my lyric book (of course!) and basically scrapbooked the whole thing (they had just asked us to print them out and maybe tie the pages together with ribbons!) I'll have to post pics of that another time.

After the class, in a temporarily unstable frame of mind (J/K), I volunteered to be the President of the MOMS Club. They had been looking for volunteers/nominations for the different positions for about 2 months, and I had considered inquiring about the VP positions, but thought if I just waited, others would step up and then I could just volunteer next year (after all, I've only been in the group a few months!). I overheard them talking about how no one had stepped up for VP or Pres, and so I started asking questions and next thing I know, they were all telling me to go for Pres!!! It should all work out great though, the other ladies that are up for the other positions, I get along with great, and a lady I've become friends with (who had planned on just being Treasurer) said she would do the VP job if I did Pres. So, the middle of May are 'elections' and thus far I'm unopposed, so it should be a sure thing- although that would be pretty sad if I somehow didn't get it (like if everyone voted against me), but I don't know if that's possible. Overall, I'm pretty excited, and can't wait to get to know all the moms better and to see what we, as a new board, can bring to the group this year!

Today at playgroup, (sadly I don't have any pics of this story, but I don't know that one would have wanted to see them!) we went to a park in PV that is basically a giant pond with some grass and ducks and fish. We were hoping to feed the ducks, but it appears that the ducks have all headed north again, because there were none there. Fortunately, we all had little boys and they were perfectly content with just throwing rocks into the water. After repeatedly telling Cole to stay away from the water, he took a digger off a mossy rock into the nastiest, slimiest, schmutz-y water ever! Two of the other boys thought it fun to just sit in the bank of the pond, so needless to say, we all sat stripping our children before putting them in car seats to go home. While we were all sitting there watching our disgustingly dirty boys having a rock throwing blast, some guy with a little boy came over and was letting the boy play around ours'. Next thing we knew the boy was face down in the pond, and the man was just standing there! My friend (future Miss VP) said you need to get him! and then the man looked at the little boy (who had to be younger than Cole) flailing in the water, realized he wasn't going to recover from his fall into the water, and proceeded to take his shoes off before finally going in to get him!!!! We just all sat there in stunned silence for a while, as the man scooped up his possessions, and headed back to where the rest of his family were. Once out of ear shot, we let loose!! We could not believe this man just sat and watched this little boy drowning, and then had the nerve to make him splash a few moments longer so he could remove his less than impressive shoes!!! We were all ready to go diving in after the boy, but were so in shock over the whole ordeal, and that this man was so slow to take action! It was very disturbing to witness! Cole even came up to me right after, and tried to hold on to me as best he could, though I was trying to keep him and his slimy,nasty, smelly self off me. I think the incident seriously traumatized him too, actually all the little boys were in shock. We determined (and later confirmed) that this could not be the boy's father, and heard him chatting it up later as that the boy decided to go "swim", and conveniently left out the part about the poor thing nearly drowning to death!

So that's what we've been up to. Abe has a meeting all day Saturday- which is okay since it is supposed to rain. Hopefully we will be able to come up with something fun to do Sunday.

The Evolution of Fear

2009-04-27T14:48:00.000-07:00

Sunday morning, we went out to breakfast before our friends headed back down to Phoenix. On the way home, Abe decided to stop and get my car washed, since earlier that morning I had commented on its disgustingness.

There is a car wash here in Prescott that is like the gas station car washes, with the addition of guys that scrub your car going in and dry it once you come out (and you stay in your car the whole time). Cole usually loves going to the regular car wash and watching the cars go through, so we thought he would enjoy being in it. As we got closer, I started questioning whether he would really enjoy it.

Here's what happened:

Curiosity

Unsureness

Fright

Sheer Panic and Terror!

At the point of sheer panic and terror, we stopped laughing at him and I put down the camera and reclined my seat back to try and comfort him and calm him down. We felt so bad afterward, although, just now while writing this post, I'm getting a pretty good chuckle from reliving the moment. I do still feel awful about it though, but I can't help but laugh. He is so dramatic!

RCPM!!!

2009-04-27T14:00:00.001-07:00

This past Saturday, we had the awesome, awesome opportunity to have a FREE Roger Clyne and the Peacemakers concert, downtown in the courthouse square. Now, to some, this may not seem that exciting, but to us, and our OUTRAGEOUSLY-HUGE-RCPM-fan friends, this could not have been any more AWESOME!!! (did I say that already?)

Cole was not too sure about what was going on. The music was loud (awesome), the crowd was crazy singing and dancing (awesome), and it was getting close to bed time. He was such a trooper though, and hung in there with no complaint (I think that was due to the shock factor!)

Abe put him on his shoulders. I would say he was giving him a better view, but we were only about 30 feet max. from the stage as it was, so he really was just trying to help me out, since after a while, Cole insisted on being held- by me.
Here we are with two of our friends that came up. Another couple of friends of ours (actually it was sort of a Costa Rica reunion- since this was the group we had gone there with) came up too, I just, sadly, didn't get any pics with them. (Dara- if you don't mind, send me all the pics you took too, please!)

I know this picture is blurry (its artistic- and I did it on purpose, not really, lol), but with about 45 minutes of the concert left, we found a spot literally 5 feet off the side of the stage. It was the best!!!

Abe and I have been to a couple of their concerts before (one down in Mexico, even), and our friends have each been to dozens, but this was by far the best! For one thing, the crowd was a fraction of the normal size (about 500 vs. a couple thousand), it was 5 minutes from our house, and it was FREE!!! Plus, with all the concerts our friends have been to, they have never been able to get up that close. We even got our picture taken with the guitarist afterward (we had tried to wait to get a pic with Roger, but there was a pretty good crowd around him and we were cold and hungry and it was getting late.)

Abe and I also realized that earlier that day, we had been stuck on the highway behind their old-smoke-billowing-horses-fighting-painted-totally-befitting-of-them tour bus doing 2mph on a 2% grade! We had zipped around to pass them, all the while making comments about what a junkie old bus it was! We got a good laugh out of it.

Here they are singing a portion of one of my all time favorite songs (this song came out when I was in high school when they were known as The Refreshments) Sorry the video is a little shaky, but I was filming one handed, while I was holding Cole and he was bouncing in my arm.

Just a little thought

2009-04-23T13:32:00.000-07:00

This morning at the grocery store, something stopped me and made me think.

Cole has lately taken to sitting in the basket, rather than the seat, in the cart. This is fine with me until he starts dancing around too close to the end (where the sides aren't as high). As I was pleading with him to sit down and stop stomping on the frozen vegetables and to quit squishing and biting at the loaf of bread, an older woman walked by and said "You're a great mom." As I was continuing to struggle with Cole, I thought "Yeah, maybe I'm not so bad".

The rest of the shopping trip I wondered what would prompt this woman to say this. I had not been displaying any exemplary mothering techniques (just quietly begging my nearly 2 year old to sit down, not screaming like other moms I have witnessed). Then I thought, maybe she was being facetious due to the fact I was allowing my young son to stand in the shopping cart (this made me slightly upset and annoyed). Then I thought, maybe she just likes to tell moms, walking through the grocery store, that they are doing a good job because, perhaps, they don't hear it enough, and every mom needs to hear that she is indeed doing a good job (I decided to go with this theory, as it didn't make me want to wait in the parking lot to have a word with her, lol).

I haven't been able to stop thinking about the possibility that this woman is just out there doing a great service to random stranger-moms by boosting their confidence, especially when it appears they may be struggling. I have been asking myself since if I have told a mom that she is great lately. Not okay, or good, or mediocre, but great!

Have you?

BTW- I found more of Cole's beautiful artwork this morning on the top of my nightstand and the front of our armoire. Thanks to a tip from a friend, I was able to remove all traces with a Mr. Clean Magic Eraser (why hadn't I thought of that?) and it is almost entirely out of the carpet! Yea!

Picasso

2009-04-22T12:35:00.001-07:00

This morning, as we frantically rushed to get out of the house to make it to playgroup on time (it was half an hour earlier than usual and about half an hour away), Cole got a hold of a Sharpie. Cole has, on occasion, gotten hold of Sharpies before, but usually just looks at them. Today, while I checked my email, I told Cole to go watch Elmo and get out of my office. He cooperatively obliged (that should have been my first warning) and traipsed back into my bedroom, where Sesame Street was on.

I finished checking my email, ran out and told Cole we needed to hurry and leave, only to find this

Yes, that is navy blue Sharpie on light grey carpet. There were several more locations of the same AWESOME artwork, but this was all I could stomach to take pictures of.

This is the door frame to our bathroom. Look closely. He even colored in the latch hole.

And this is what he did to himself. These are brand new shorts (literally the first time he's ever worn them). He also got the straps of his tennis shoes (Nikes for little boys aren't cheap!). His hands were also covered in the lovely blue. So far, I have left the marker on his person because it is really bugging him. I don't want him to think that every time he colors on things (including himself) that Mom can just make it disappear. So he will stay blue, at least until it starts to really bother me.

I have also been through a can and a half of carpet cleaner. It has put a pretty good dent in it (surprisingly), but I'm sure I'll go through at least another half can or more before I can call it good (thank goodness we stocked up on carpet cleaner at Costco). As for the door, my fellow moms gave me some pointers, so I'll be (or have Abe) making a trip to Home Depot for the rest of our clean up supplies. I'm just hoping to remove enough color that it blends in. So now,while Cole is still sleeping, I must go and lock the Sharpies up in a location very high!

Just another weekend

2009-04-21T13:34:00.000-07:00

Saturday was a very busy day for us! It was a beautiful day (high around 75, light breeze, very sunny) so I convinced Abe to take Cole to the zoo. Here in Prescott there is a zoo, containing no more than 20 exhibits, most of which are animals we see on a weekly basis at home, but its a zoo all the same. The best part is if you get there right around opening, you get to watch the keepers feed all the animals their breakfasts. Here is Abe and Cole watching the lemurs be fed (this is one of the few non-local exhibits). Cole was getting a kick out of the lemurs jumping all over the cage and swatting at each other to keep away from their share of the meal.
Here is another somewhat non-local exhibit. I say somewhat because we know there are bears around this area, just not where we see them. Now understand that we were literally two feet from this 8 foot tall bear scratching himself on the fence. You don't get to see that everyday!

This was after his scratching session. I've said it before, and I'll say it again, I am more terrified of this guy than the tiger!

The very best part about this zoo (besides being able to be ridiculously close to the animals), is that it is so small Cole is able to walk the entire zoo by himself! He is such the little explorer!

Here is the zoo's crowning glory- the tiger. She was being pretty grumpy because she was hungry, but if you talk and/or growl at her, she responds! Again, never been this close to a tiger before! (Getting to be so close to the bear and the tiger alone makes the $8 admission fee worth it!- especially growing up going to the Phoenix Zoo and being lucky to even see the animals, let alone so up close!)

They also have a little playground, so Cole had to get in on that action! He wasn't too sure about it though, with the sun out the slide was a little warm. This was actually the extent of his playground romping.

Okay, I had to add this picture because this is a Mexican Gray Wolf. They supposedly have these at the Phoenix Zoo, too. However, in the 20+ years I've been going to Phoenix, I don't think I've ever seen them! I always look, and they are never around. Here, they had several that were running along the fence and looked as if they just wanted to play. They are small for wolves (I think, since I really only have Alaskan wolves to compare them to), not being much bigger than a Husky. It was kind of cool to finally get to see what these things look like.

After the zoo, we decided to go in search of our beef ranchers. A few weeks ago we learned of a nearby ranch that sells organic, free-range beef raised right up the road. The price is reasonable, and they offer several different purchase options (15 lb, 35 lb, 75 lb, half and whole cow). We had seen them at a farmers market at the mall, and knew of a weekly farmers market in Prescott Valley. We decided to swing in and see if they happened to have a booth. What a trip!! This is definitely not a typical farmers market, think more swap meet. It was a very interesting experience, needless to say, and we did end up leaving with a few purchases. Cole got a pair of old binoculars so he can glass with his dad and a new Hotwheel, Abe bought a coyote call made from a bullet shell (AWESOME!) and something else I don't even remember now. I really had my eye on the throwing axes, 4-sided knives, swords and lady daggers, but decided to hold off. Like I said, interesting!

After the swap meet, we decided to drive in search of our beef ranch. We drove and drove and finally found it. It is on the same premises as Orme School (a private, expensive, boarding school in North Mayer), but unfortunately, no ranchers were to be found. We did finally get a hold of them, yesterday, and they will be delivering our beef to us in the next week or so (I'll let you know if its worth it!)

Saturday night, I left to go pick up pizza. One of the drawbacks of this house is no one delivers pizza to us, I think due to the lack of streetlights so its considered a safety issue, WHATEVER! I always tell Abe that Cole never seems to get upset when I leave, like he does for him, however, Saturday he did. Abe said he cried the entire time I was gone and took this picture as proof.

I guess Cole really does care. By the way, that bash on the corner was Abe's doing, just after we told the house contractor that we would not cause or allow damage to the walls like the previous tenants had done. Oh well!

Sunday, we were lucky enough to have Abe's dad come for a visit. Cole loved getting some more attention and we all went to Prescott Brewery for a great lunch. I didn't have my camera, but hopefully I'll get some pics from John. There were some classic moments, as always!

What goes in must figure a way out!

2009-04-17T13:46:00.000-07:00

Before Cole had to get ready for bed last night, I told him he could play on his climber for a few more minutes (we gotta try to wear this kid out as much as possible- I figure it might help him sleep through the night, eventually). I left the room for a minute and came back to find Abe crawling into the "fort" through the cargo net! Cole thought he was crazy, but also thought it was pretty cool to have Dad in his climber with him. I had to grab my camera, and as I took pictures Abe mimicked and mocked what I would post today. He's so mean sometimes!

After being ridiculously cramped for 10 minutes, Abe decided it was better to find an alternative way out versus the way he had gone in (plus he had to repair the damage he caused to the cargo net upon entry).

Cole also decided to channel my little brother last night (walking around with his pants sagging and his little booty hanging out.)

After such climber excitement, the two boys (and I mean BOYS) played a rousing game of 'Which hand's it in?

This was Cole's attempt. He didn't have anything in either hand, but whatever Dad does, he has to, too.

See- look Dad, it's empty!

Then it was Abe's turn again.

Nothing in that hand!

Ah Ha! Success!!!

And one last quick trip down the slide! Such fun!

Sadly, my plan did not work. Cole still woke up last night. However, I was only up with him for an hour (it's been 2-3 hours every other night this week, and most of the last few months), so maybe it worked a little bit. I think now he just wakes up out of habit (annoying!!!). He actually doesn't "wake up" but he starts crying and fussing, so I go running in so hopefully he doesn't wake Abe up. What to do? Oh well, I figure it won't last forever (hopefully) and during the night is the only time he will allow me to hold him like he's still my little baby. I've decided to enjoy it while I can, and just try to remind myself I will (eventually) have years to catch up on the sleep this incredible little boy has deprived me of! Until then, excessive amounts of caffeine will do the trick.