Summer fun with Gigi

Gigi took off a couple of Fridays in June so we could go to the Zoo and the Arboretum. We had so much fun!

Getting bigger every day!

Hey, Mr. Dylan, please stop growing up so quickly.  Okay???

Dylan is getting so big and is happier and sweeter every day.  I think we are up to 7 or 8 teeth.  Dylan loves to giggle and thinks it's hilarious when mom says "Psssttt....."  He is now eating all people food.  His favorites right now are still berries, bean burritos and peanut butter and jelly.  When he is eating something he likes he says "Mmmmmm"  He loves to laugh and point.  He dances (by bouncing up and down).  He says dada for most things and points at himself and says mama (which make sense because when I say mama, I point to myself...must've been lost in translation).  He also calls most animals "dada" in various tones.  He LOVES dogs and points at every dog during our nightly strolls.  He also loves his stuffed animal dogs the most.  He face plants into stuffed animals and anything soft and cuddly.  He still sleeps like an ostrich with his butt up in the air.  He also still sleeps pretty consistently from 8:30pm to 7:00am.  He has this sweet glo worm that he plays with before he goes to bed and then by himself in the morning as he is walking up.  He also loves throwing all of his stuffies and blankets out of the crib before he dozes off...the glo worm makes quite a thud.  He loves playing peek a boo (throwing a blanket over his face and then pulling it down), building with his blocks and just being such a wonderful boy!

We started swim lessons and at first I thought it was a bad idea.  Dylan screamed for most of the first lesson but he now seems to like it a lot and even puts his face in the water on his own.  He isn't as crazy about his splash days at school but I think that's mainly because he doesn't really understand the allure of getting sprayed in the face by a sprinkler.

We have been spending time together going to the grocery store and doing other fun things.  I have loved being part time so much  This is truly such an adorable age.

Uncle Don Graduates

The youngest in my family, Uncle Don, graduated this past weekend!  It's crazy because I realized that he was Dylan's age whenever I graduated from high school.  Dad was fishing with his grandpa and cousins in Minnesota so he wasn't able to attend so I faced the great unknown with a newly walking toddler.

Don had quite the crew for your graduation.  Aunt Phyllis, Uncle Peter, Elissa, Ryan, Ann, Dad, Nonnie (Ann's mom) and of course me and Dylan.  Dylan was AMAZED by the chandeliers in the ballroom in the room that Don graduated in.  He loved pointing at them and couldn't take his eyes off of them.  He did great when he was sitting with me but about 10 minutes into the ceremony - we had just watched the graduates walk in - he promptly tried to wiggle out of my arms and I took him out of the room.  We were right in front and I thought it was the best for everyone.

Don's class was very small - 35 people - but the ceremony was VERY long (over 2 hours).  Rick Santorium (running for president) was the speaker which was pretty cool.  Dylan had quite the time in the back area...  He was crawling at mach speed from one part of the room to the next leaving a wake of toys in his path.  He tasted lemonade for the first time - yum.  And had a cookie - he freaked out he loved it so much.  Mom was really glad when the ceremony was over. 

Afterwards, Dylan and I met Don, Elissa, Paige, Nonnie, Dad and Ann back at their house.  We ate cake and berries and had a fun time catching up.  Dylan especially loved climbing the stairs (mom did not love it as much).

We are so proud of you Don!  Sic 'em bears!!!!

Walking

Dylan didn't even wait a whole 24 hours to show us his new moves - 2 BIG steps!  We woke up the day after returning from Italy, brewed some much needed coffee and headed up to Dylan's playroom to let him play while we digested all of the jet lag.  Dad was playing with Dylan near the yellow playhouse but apparently the playhouse was not near enough because right before our wondering weary eyes should appear but this kid, standing up and taking two steps before grabbing the top of the house.  We couldn't believe it!

Our lives are about to get much more busy!  And we are excited!

Camp NAG 2.0

Italy

Final Days of Full-time

For the last few months, my heart has been really troubled in that I really wanted to be able to spend more time with Dylan.  Dylan's school has been a great spot for him.  The teachers are so wonderful and loving and I have enjoyed hearing all of his stories when I go to pick him up but at the same time I've felt very sad because I want to be there to share these memories with him.  I feel like I am missing so many precious moments being stuck behind my desk.  I talked with Matt about it one night and he agreed that financially we could take a hit and let me be part time.  By being part time, this would give me more time to dedicate to the house, be able to cook (which I love to do) and have time to take Dylan / me to doctors appointments....basically be able to slow down.

The timing honestly could not have been more perfect.  My current company is going through a bit of a transition and I wasn't sure that my position fit in to the new plans.  There were some recent layoffs of highly tenured people and my position's responsibilities had dwindled in recent months.  I still really enjoyed the people at my company but when I approached my boss about my desire to go part time, he didn't think that this would be a possibility.

One of my sweetest, bestest friends had left my current company to go back to work for a company that I had actually met her at.  I had been at AHS for 5 1/2 years (from 2005-2011) and so I was very familiar with the people and product.  I had shared with her that I wanted to go part time and she worked to create a position for me.  I would be home Mondays and either Wednesday or Thursday (depending on the week) and at the office Tuesday and Friday.  She also ensured that I would have flexibility to log in should Dylan get sick - which was very important because the little guy loves to contract little bugs here and there.  I gave my boss at my current position my letter and he was very supportive.  I can't wait for all of the fun things that we will be able to do little Dylan.  I have already signed you up for swim lessons and can't wait to be your full time mama with a part time job.

Speaking of being a mom...  I had a wonderful Mother's Day doing two of my most favorite things - eating Italian food and being with my family.  I am truly blessed.

Helmet head no more!

Big day in our household!  Dylan got his helmet off!!!!  Dylan's little noggin had rounded out and the DOC band days were FINALLY behind us.  Mom was ecstatic!

The DOC band made a huge difference and I am so glad that we did it.  The flat spot on his right side of the head had smoothed out and his head was not so pointy and cone-like.  I had really psyched myself into thinking that this experience would be horrible but it truly wasn't.  It's amazing that a piece of plastic could do so much for our little guy.  We are so pleased with the results and this type of day should be celebrated with frozen yogurt!!! 

Crawfish anyone?

Brian and Thip had their annual Crawfish party which was a blast!  Last year, Dylan was just a little guy and slept the entire party.  This year, he is quite the active little dude.  He met up with his old pal Ruby (they are two weeks apart) and had a great time playing in the yard and being held and bossing everyone around (by pointing at something of interest, saying "ah duh" and then like magic the person holding him takes him to that place).  He is quite bossy!

Like always, there was a ton of food and drinks (the margarita machine made another appearance).  We spent the evening catching up with old friends and telling stories.  Dylan made it for a couple of hours and went home with Mimi and Papa.  It was a fun night!

The next day, we went to the Earth Day event in Fair Park.  Matt's company had a booth so we went by to say hi and lucky for Dylan, one of Matt's co-workers brought her dog.  Dylan absolutely thinks dogs are the BEST.  I think they are giant stuffed animals that move in his brain.  He had a great time watching Cooper play catch and then strolling around to see all of the sights.

ACM Awards

For the first time ever, the American Country Music (ACM) Awards left Las Vegas and came to Dallas and it was THE event to be at.  I REALLY wanted to go and Matt nicely obliged (he doesn't really care for country music).  So, we got floor tickets with Steve and Cherie.

Cowboys Stadium was packed with quite an eccentric group.  Some people dressed to the 9s while others rocked the jeans / wife beater fashion.  The floor area was open with no seats, right under the enormous jumbo tron.  All of the big stars were there - we saw Miranda Lambert, George Strait, Reba and many more present and preform.  It was quite an experience.  Since it was a TV event, much of the show was interrupted by commercial breaks, which gave us time to get food/drinks or head to the bathroom so you didn't have to miss anything.  It was a lot of fun!  Come on Jerry, get it back for us :)

Dylan is crawling, pulling himself up and loves to dance.  He moved into a new classroom which was scary for us (we LOVED Miss Ann and Miss Bekah) but he has been doing great - he sleeps on a mat (instead of a crib) for naps, is drinking from a sippy cup (good bye bottles and formula) and is starting to eat real food.  Fruit is his favorite.  Any fruit but likes blueberries, raspberries and blackberries the most.  He loves to turn on and off light switches.  Like a LOT.  You might even say he is obsessed.  He also really likes stuffed animals and seeing Missy when she comes out of her hiding spots.  He is doing great and is such a happy little guy.

Happy Birthday Sweet Boy!

Since Dylan loved "C is for Cookie" so much, I decided on a Cookie Monster theme for his first BIG birthday!  Friends and family packed our house.  We had baby blue and navy balloons, Cookie Monster decorations, a Cookie Monster smash cake, cake pops and TONS of glorious cookies (that Dylan with Nonnie's help kept sneaking).

I made a slideshow with many of the highlights of the first year.  Because of the amount of pictures that we take and the highlights, the slideshow was over 30 minutes long!  Dylan TV!  Once everyone got there, we attempted to get Dylan to open his presents but he was a little distracted.  He got so many cool things like a giant giraffe (to match your other giraffe) from Brian and Thip, a gloworm from Uncle Alex, a fire engine, little people farm set, blocks and TONS of toys that make noise and music (that make mom and dad reach for the aspirin).  The grand finale was the smash cake.  We changed Dylan down to his diaper and put the cake in front of him.  (insert crickets)  Dylan didn't really know what he was supposed to do.  With Dad's help, Dylan finally took his first swat and tasted the glorious blue frosting.  After that, there was no looking back.  All he wanted to do was eat the sweetness.  Not much smash.  MUCH more cake.

After a big face full of icing, Dylan made a beeline for Nonnie.  Good thing Nonnie was wearing white pants.  Eek!  Everyone had a wonderful time and Dylan took a nice, long nap afterwards.  A great success for everyone!

Dylan, this has been the best year of our lives.  Your sweet smile and demeanor is a true blessing and we are so fortunate that God chose us to be your parents.  Thank you for being such a wonderful baby and for teaching us more about ourselves than we ever thought possible.  We love you monkey and wish many, many blessings for you as you get older.  But don't ever forget that you will always be our little boy.

One Year Old Pictures

We met Ashley for your one year old photo shoot in McKinney.  We brought all sorts of props and balloons but alas Dylan was NOT having it.  He got SO MAD when we wouldn't let him eat the blue confetti eggs.  Even though the little guy is NOT HAPPY  in some of these pictures, they are so darn cute. 

Can't believe we have an almost 1 years old!

Cousin John

Mom's funny cousin, John, came in town this past week!  It was great to meet for dinner with him, Daddy D, Momma D, Uncle Ryan, Great Aunt / Uncle - Peter and Phyllis, Cousins - Todd / Grace (and new baby on board!), Beth / Matt (and another new baby on board!), Fiore, Elizabeth, Peter Jr. and Julie went to Mi Cocina.

First Haircut and Easter Parade!

Dylan had his first hair cut this past weekend!  The mullet was getting completely out of control so it was time to cut the wild mane.

At first, Dylan didn't know what to think.  The hair stylist put the cape on which was bright and silky.  Dylan kind of liked sitting on the high chair but then he got ....really ...bored and wanted OUT!  Daddy had to hold Dylan's arms to his side and try to keep him still so the stylist could continue to cut.  And then Dylan got MAD!  His face turned bright pink.  Finally, after what seemed like a billion years, the stylist finished. 

Dylan looks like a little boy now!  Sob sob.

Dylan's school celebrated Easter this past weekend with silly hats and an Easter parade.  It was so funny to watch the babies being wheeled around the playground in their hats.  Dylan's class had little Easter baskets for their hats.  Once I got back into the room, the babies weren't really liking the Easter party.  All of them, Dylan included, were in a complete meltdown.  It was nice to be there to comfort the little guy. 

After the parade was over, there was an Easter egg hunt on the playground.  Dylan and Connor naturally ruled the hunt.  Connor has become Dylan's best baby bud.  Once Dylan had his loot, he crawled over to the fence and promptly started putting the eggs between the posts so they would roll onto the street.  Such a little boy this one! 

 

Hippity Hoppity Easter's On It's Way!

Dad had his office Easter party the day after we got back from Turkey.  There was a great amount of eggs, fun and jet lag!

This was Dylan's first time to participate in an Easter egg hunt.  He didn't know what to think.  And he really didn't know what to think of the bunnies at the petting zoo.  We thought the bunnies would be a huge hit but Dylan cried when he was in the same pen as them.  Oh well - maybe next year. 

Dylan discovered a love of popsicles!  At first he tried to take the entire thing down but it was very cold!  And Dylan doesn't like his mouth or hands to be cold.  Once it melted a bit (all over Dad), Dylan was in sugar heaven.

The hunt was mass chaos of kiddage (all ages 5 and under).  Dad helped Dylan score some eggs.  He would hover over an egg and Dad would swoop him in for pick up - helicopter style.  While the technique was effective, it was not the quickest and Dylan was no match for some of the little sticky fingers he was up against.  Alas, he got 5 eggs and a goodie basket.  We took pictures, ate a cookie and were out the door.  Early entries are the life of parents with almost a 1 year old :)

 

 

 

Camp NAG

Mom and Dad left for Amsterdam / Turkey starting March 14 - 26.  It was SO hard to leave you little buddy but you were in the BEST hands with Nonnie and Grandad.  Grandad kept a journal of your time at Camp NAG.  You have become quite the stair climber, dog chaser and have TWO new teeth. 

March 14, 2015

• Dylan goes to the airport with mom and dad to see them off to Turkey and then falls asleep in the car while Granddad and Nonnie take him back to McKinney where his toys are all laid out in the family room just waiting to be played with.
• Granddad and Nonnie have a new cover on the fireplace to keep Dylan from turning the fireplace into one of his playgrounds.
• We took Dylan to church where I discovered the fun of the kneeling benches and that he could pull himself up on the chair in front of him. As hard as he tried, he just couldn’t lean over the chair far enough to grab the lady’s shiny Coke key chain sitting on the chair next to her. Dylan loved the singing and the lights, he loved the lights!! He found a couple of babes behind him, Nonnie types, that he flirted with until he decided he was tired of church and made Granddad take him out so he could play with all the church banners hanging from the wall and the security keypad. He found the choir room and all the electrical outlets in there, but Granddad ruined his fun when he lifted him up and wouldn’t let him play the let’s-shock-dylan game! After Dylan got tired of all he could play with inside the church, we went outside and enjoyed the benches while watching all the people who left church early, like Dylan and Granddad.
• Dylan went to Italian Gardens with us and had penne pasta and was a complete hit with the waitress staff!
• Dylan came home and was tired, but didn’t feel like he was ready for sleep so he played with the toys, laughed at Casey, and went to Nonnie instead of Granddad!! Granddad had to check him to make sure he didn’t have a fever!
• After staying up a little longer than he should, Nonnie comforted Dylan until he was ready to say goodnight to everybody with a great big smile and a wave, then went up stairs with Nonnie to go to sleep and rest up for another great day at Granddad’s and Nonnie’s!

March 15

• Dylan slept in this morning and played in his crib until Granddad got him up and took him downstairs to look around the house, play with the lights and then grab a bottle on his way to a diaper change. Granddad performed spectacularly except that he couldn’t find a shirt to go with Dylan’s pants so he’s crawling around the house shirtless right now until Nonnie gets up and can find the perfect shirt for him to wear.
• Nonnie found the perfect shirt for Dylan and then we were off to McDonalds;
• Nonnie, Alex, Granddad, and of course, Dylan. Dylan enjoyed pancakes, though he seemed to like squeezing them in his hands more than eating them!
• Newsflash!! Dylan likes playing with dental floss and the REAL phone, no toy phones for him!
• The tide is turning. Nonnie feeds Dylan teething cookies and Granddad feeds him liquefied chicken. Needless to say Nonnie is Dylan’s favorite… for now!
• Son, Laura, Casey and Dylan went for a walk in his stroller today. We went to the park and played on the swing and slid down the slide.  We are wearing Dylan out, which is difficult since he slept today from 11am to 2:30!
• After dinner, Granddad, Nonnie, Sun, and Laura gave Dylan a bath. He played in the tub, got his hair washed, lotioned up, his teeth brushed (both of them), had his booger juice and then medicine in the ear. We dressed him and were getting ready to take him to bed before we realized it was 6:00, not 8:00! So we gave him a bottle and now we are taking turns showing Dylan all the pictures in the house.
• He’s still a Nonnie’s boy. I think it’s going to take some work to bring him back to Granddad, but maybe when his medication takes hold he’ll come to his senses. Let’s hope!
• New discovery, Dylan LOVES his teething cookies. He recognizes the bag they come in and cries the instant he sees it! We are really off today. We’re eating a cookie just after having our teeth brushed!
• Dylan asleep at 7pm!! Another great day!

March 16

• Dylan work up around 7:30 and played in his crib until 8:15 before letting Granddad know that he was ready to play downstairs. He was changed and fed, then played with Nonnie for awhile where he was quite upset when Nonnie left to go visit with one of her friends. Dylan and Granddad stayed behind and got all the toys out before deciding to ride the elephant and make it sing.
• Dylan and Granddad went on a short walk so Dylan could enjoy the fresh air. He was a little fidgety this morning and had a runny nose. The walk relaxed him. When we got back to the house, we ate a pouch and some bananas; played in the backyard and the family room for an hour, then took a nap at around 10:10. Dylan was tired so I’m looking forward to a fun afternoon with him when he’s recharged!
• And one more thing, of all the toys we bought Dylan and have from Mommy and Daddy, his absolute favorite is the phone in the family room!
• Dylan napped from 10 to 1. He work up in a great mood! He had bottle and played with Granddad and Nonnie, thought he mostly played with Nonnie. He played with the phone again and then we fed him a pouch and half of a small banana. Mommy and Daddy facetimed with him and then Nonnie just now took him out for a walk! What a day!
• Nonnie fed Dylan a tasty pouch and banana this evening while Granddad napped. I’m not sure how it got there but when Granddad got up, Dylan had bananas in his hair.
• Dylan spent some quality time out back this evening looking at all the trees and shrubs. He made sure he touched everything in the backyard, except for the pool which we promised him we would get to when it got warmer.  I don’t think the dog next to us like Dylan and Granddad too much because he spent a lot of time barking, but that’s okay because we don’t like him.
• Dylan had another great bath and played a little bit more before going to bed at 7pm. He was a tired little boy!

March 17

• Another fast start to the day today! Dylan missed Granddad and Nonnie so much that he got up at 6:20 this morning! He started out around 4am, coughing and sneezing a little, and by a little after 6am, he was ready to be sprung from his crib! Granddad wasn’t feeling well so Nonnie got Dylan up this morning and got him ready for the day.
• Dylan showed us how smart he is by crawling and pushing his merry-go-round toy all the way across the family room, to the kitchen floor where he knew there was no rug and that his toy would spin and sing to him.  He also knows that the backdoor is the way out into the backyard where all the bushes and birds are. He loves going outside!
• Dylan showed us how he likes to eat today. He gathers as many banana slices as he can in his left hand, and just holds them in reserve while using his right hand to pick up a sliver at a time to eat. He’s pretty consistent here and clearly knows what he likes.
• On another front, Nonnie referred to herself as Tyta while talking to Dylan.
• It’s almost 9:30am and since Dylan got up so early, we might put him down for his nap in 15 minutes or so. More to come.
• Dylan spends a lot of his time climbing up and over Nonnie’s chair in the family room. It seems it’s his favorite place to play with his favorite toy, the telephone!
• Nonnie and Dylan had another great walk today. It was hot so Nonnie lathered him up with sunblock and off they went. We try to give Dylan a bottle of just water once in awhile but he’s no dummy, it’s clearly not his milk and he has nothing to do with it.
• We took Dylan’s playpen outside today and enjoyed a few minutes in the in the pen watching the birds, the pool, and of course the bushes which Dylan loves pulling on.
• Dylan slept from 3-5 today. He was tired but woke up happy and is now exploring again. This time he’s in Nonnie’s pantry exploring!
• Dylan went outside in the backyard this evening and got his hand wet in the pool. He sat on the chairs around the table on the patio and was in awe of all the birds, trees, shurbs and waterfall. He pointed EVERYWHERE and we followed everywhere he pointed. It looks like it’ll be an 8pm bedtime tonight.

March 18, 2015

• Today’s entry will be short because we are taking Dylan to day care! Granddad got  the happy Dylan up at 7am, then changed and dressed him, including his new shoes! After getting him in the car seat and prepped his school bag, we woke up Nonnie so she could kiss us before we took off for school!
• Because of weather and traffic, it took us over an hour to get to school but Dylan was perfect the entire time. He listened to Mike and Mike on ESPN and provided his own commentary during the trip. We arrived at school where Granddad screwed up the keypad. Thankfully, the nice people at Primrose helped me get through the door and check in Dylan. I wet to Dylan’s classroom and met his very nice teacher. Then best of all, Dylan would not go to his teacher and when I finally handed him over, he cried and cried! It was the best morning ever for Granddad. I can’t wait to pick him up today!
• Granddad woke Dylan up at 3pm when he picked him up at Daycare and CLEARLY, he was the best looking baby in the place! We drove home with Dylan singing and talking the entire ride home. We got back and Nonnie played with Dylan, showing him the great outdoors in our backyard which Dylan now loves doing!
• Granddad and Dylan shared some Rice Crispies while Dylan played in Nonnie’s pantry. When he got bored, Dylan showed Nonnie how he now goes down the stairs, face first! We need to work on that, but he’s definitely fearless when it comes to the stares.
• I think Granddad is going to take Dylan to daycare tomorrow, mostly because they short-changed him two nipples this afternoon. I think they are skimming nipples at daycare.

March 19, 2015

• Dylan got up at 7am in a great mood. Granddad had him changed, dressed and in his car seat before he finished his bottle! We kissed Nonnie good-bye and then took off to school. A much quicker ride this time which was a shame because Dylan was talking it up and playing in the car. He entertained himself very well.
• I picked Dylan up at about 3:15 and took him home where Nonnie took over, and played and fed Dylan. He had bananas again, a food packet, a bottle and was about a messy a little boy as there ever was. Nonnie took him outside and they splashed in the pool, pulled the leaves off the bushes and touched everything there was to touch. Dylan played with Nonnie in the family room and all around the house wanting to see every picture and wall hanging we have, several times over!
• Dylan had a bath at 7 and once again was the perfect boy, playing and laughing the entire time. He didn’t even cry when Nonnie put ear drops in!
• Finally it was bedtime at 8:15pm and like the good boy he is, he took his bottle, played a little with the giant bear in his bedroom, then went to bed. I expect another great day tomorrow!

March 20, 2015

• Dylan missed his Nonnie and Granddad so much that he got up at 6am!  He is a little fussy this morning but is still the cutest boy in the world. Right now he is crawling around at My feet putting teeth marks in two more of Nonnie’s Easter eggs. I think we are going to have another fun day. No day care today!
• Dylan spoke to mommy and daddy this morning over his morning banana. He was happy, but still tired. After playing for awhile, Dylan had a pouch and then was ready for his nap at 9am. After he naps and recharges, Granddad and Nonnie will take Dylan outside for another memorable day.
• Dylan slept for two hours and woke up in great spirits. He played in Nonnie’s pantry, which is quickly becoming a favorite place for him to hang out. He tried to get into Casey’s food so we quickly relocated the dog food, but from them on it was smooth sailing
• Granddad worked at the kitchen island with Dylan completely content crawling through the legs of the bar stools at the island. He was a little unhappy with being kept out of the living room and stairway, but he quickly got over it. We went out in the rain for a little bit but then quickly came inside, though Dylan’s vote was to stay out in the ran.
• Dylan at a good lunch and then Nonnie cleaned him up so he looked like the perfect baby he is for his Grampa and Grandma Enzler.  I already miss him.

March 23, 2015

• Dylan is back! What a good boy he’s been.  I got him up at 7 and hand him changed, dressed, and in his car seat by 7:15. Granddad has the routine down pat. We went to kiss Nonnie goodbye and then it was off to school!
• It took us over an hour to get to school today, but Dylan was a happy camper until his teacher tried to take him from Granddad. He wouldn’t go and finally when he did, he cried like he should have!
• Mommy and Daddy are going to be amazed at how well Dylan’s teeth have come in. He looks like a beaver with those chompers!
• Dylan is pointing at everything. He loves being carried and points to all the places he wants to see, touch and play with. He definitely knows what he wants to do!
• I picked Dylan up at about 4:45pm today. He was sitting in one of the playtoys and immediately recognized Granddad through the window. I went in and picked him up and then sprung him from the joint. Then it was home to Mckinney. The trip took about an hour and Dylan was a little fussy. Granddad had to drape his hand over the car seat so Dylan could play with my fingers while we drove home. Nonnie took Dylan on a walk when we got home. Dylan was a little hungry so she cut the walk short and came home. We have a new stroller game in the drive way we’ll have to show mommy and daddy when they get home.
• After Dylan’s bath, Nonnie and Granddad took Dylan for a walk to the park where Dylan got to see to cotton-tail rabbits playing, some boys playing basketball, and then ride on a swing. We got home a little after 7:30, we played for awhile and then Dylan went to bed at about 8pm and fell right to sleep.

March 24, 2015

• Dylan was excited to go to school today so he got up at 6am! Thankfully, Granddad was ready for him so he was changed, dressed and packed by 6:30. He was all smiles for Nonnie when we went to kiss her goodbye. We got to school at about 7:15am and Dylan had no problem going to his teacher and get ready for his day. Dylan played and sang for Granddad during the entire trip to school!
• Granddad picked Dylan up from school around 4pm. He played outside and made a nice cotton ball picture. He was so excited to see Granddad and wanted to show Granddad all around his school. We eventually left school and got into rush hour traffic for the ride home where Dylan played with his school bus keys and laughed and giggled the entire trip.
• When we got home, Nonnie changed Dylan and then Nonnie’s friend Mary held him. Dylan was his usual perfect self. After Granddad got him back, Dylan and Granddad played in the bedroom for a good hour. Dylan got hungry so we went to the kitchen and Dylan fed himself a banana and Granddad fed him a pouch.
• After dinner Dylan played in the tub and got squeaky clean. We dressed him and took him on a good walk. He almost fell asleep but made it home before he could close his eyes. We played with his toys for awhile and then it was off to bed at 7:50. Dylan had another great day and I can’t wait to see him bright and early in the morning.

March 25, 2015

• Dylan got up a little early this morning, right around 6:15. Dylan and Granddad then did their morning routine. Got Dylan out of bed and let his eyes adjust to the lights. The played with the fan and lights switch before heading downstairs for a very brief stop in front of the mirror, which Dylan never really enjoys and probably gets a little irritated that Granddad keeps putting him through this torture. We then head to the changing room, Daddy’s old room, grabbing the bottle along the way where Granddad undresses Dylan, changes him, and then dresses him for the day in the outfit Nonnie selected from the night before. Granddad is on the clock as he has to get Dylan dressed and in his car seat before he finishes five ounces of sweet breakfast! Once in the cars seat we go back and visit with Nonnie while Granddad finishes getting dressed. Once dressed, Dylan and Granddad kiss Nonnie goodbye and we are off to the car with Dylan’s bottle back and today, wipes for school!
• Dylan was an angel in the car. He say quietly the entire trip. We got to the school around 7:15 where Dylan enthusiastically went to his fun teacher. Granddad got to meet Dylan’s s chef, which was a nice experience.  Granddad kissed Dylan goodbye and left.
• Tonight Daddy said he would call Dylan around 6pm so Mommy and he can talk to their perfect baby boy. Next entry will be after dinner time where I fully expect Dylan to have a face full of bananas and whatever pouch he gets fed for his talk with Daddy and Mommy!
• Dylan talked to his Mommy and Daddy this evening at about 6pm, but was distracted by all there was to see around him so Dylan was in full motion by the time Mommy and Daddy said goodnight and got ready for their plane trip home.Dylan showed us how strong he was during dinner. Evidently he now likes to take a banana in each hand, squeeze as hard as he can until his arms and head shake! He’s a monster!
• Granddad and Nonnie bathed Dylan which is always fun. We went through our normal routine, trying to keep Dylan off the pillows while we dry him off and dress him, brush his teeth, give him his ear drops, de-boogerizing him, rub Vicks into his chest and lotion up his beautiful skin! He wasn’t as mad as normal at Granddad and Nonnie tonight which made them both happy! After dressing Dylan we played with toys for a little bit before getting a bottle and going right to bed. I think Dylan was excited knowing that his Mommy and Daddy were coming home to see him!

March 26, 2015

• Dylan started waking up at around 6am but didn’t come downstairs with Granddad until 7am. Granddad was a little late this morning and paid dearly for it. But once Dylan had his bottle secured, he was happy and agreed to let Granddad change and dress him.
• After the bottle, Dylan climbed on Granddad for awhile, played with toys, and then went outside with him to see what was going on.
• I’m going to have to check with Nonnie, but I think we had a Dylan first! He went to the stairs, which he really hasn’t shown much interest in lately, and climbed straight up to the top. Usually he’ll climb a couple of stairs and then turn around to come back. This time he climbed straight up to the top without stopping! He was a little worn out after that climb but he quickly regrouped and went right for Aunt Laura’s room to read her books, play with her GIANT stuffed animal, climb up onto her bed, stand with the help of her nightstand so he could get out of her Christmas fairie. He played with a Baylor-No-1 Finger and some ugly octopus that Aunt Laura had in her room. He then went into the TV room upstairs for a quick visit followed by a trip to Uncle Alex’s room. All in all, a successful trip upstairs!
• Big news all around this morning. Dylan wore himself out culminating in breaking Nonnie’s lamp with a crash on the floor that scared him right into Granddad’s arms. After the clean up he crawled onto Nonnie’s lap and is now sound asleep!
• Dylan napped for about an hour and not much more. Granddad on the otherhand napped for two. Dylan didn’t eat much, but he did play with his toys. Granddad and Nonnie spent the afternoon bathing Dylan and then packing his things. Now it’s time to go to the airport to pick up Mommy and Daddy!

Viva Las Vegas

We took a quick trip to Vegas with some of our friends.  No big winnings but we did get to go to the pool, some shows, ate our fill of Chipotle and see some dolphin and tigers.

We left Saturday morning and got to the Mirage in the late afternoon on Saturday.  Once we unpacked, found our friends, got some very large margaritas and headed to the casino across the street (Casino Royale) for the excellent (and affordable) craps tables and penny slots.  Cheri introduced me to the fishing game (penny slot game) which was a blast even though I lost all of my pennies.  We decided to have dinner at Chipotle before heading back across the street for the Tim Allen standup show - which we left in the middle of because we were falling asleep. 

The next morning, we headed to a diner in the casino and then headed to the Hard Rock for Rehab.  We rented a cabana right by the pool.  It wasn't very crowded (especially at first).  We were a little early in the season but the sun was hot and the water, once you got used to it, wasn't so bad.  We had a great waitress who was an ex-pro tennis player from Australia.  She made sure we were never without a cocktail.  We met some new friends from Sweden, Netherlands and some college kids from Michigan.  We pretty much shut down the pool and headed back to the Mirage.  It was the most expensive pool party I'd ever been to. 

Matt and our friends went out that night and went back to Chipotle and Casino Royale.  Steve ended up making some money.  I fell asleep after rehab.  I got up around 10:30pm when Matt came in to check on me.  I decided to stay in so I ordered room service.  It was the best hamburger ever I think.

On Monday, we started out very slowly.  Cheri and Steve had been playing cards for a couple of hours before we got up.  Matt and I decided to go to a restaurant and eat.  Then we met Steve and Cheri at the game - let it ride.  I tried to play but felt like I was doing everything all wrong and that the dealer was getting mad at me so I gave my seat to Matt.  After a few more hands, Cheri and I went to the Siegfried and Roy dolphin and tiger exhibit at our hotel.  They had 10 dolphins - many of which were born at the hotel.  Much like Sea World, the trainers would prompt the dolphin to do a trick for fish.  We stayed for a few minutes and went into the big cat exhibit.  They had probably 50 large cats - many white tigers, lions, jaguars.  In one of the cages, there was a guy playing with some of the tiger cubs.  Those cats LOVED their balls.  The highlight for us was actually getting to meet Siegfried.  He was a really nice guy.  He signed pictures for us and we posed for a picture. 

We met the boys back at the roulette tables in the Mirage.  We decided to go back to Casino Royale for the craps tables.  Matt and I stayed for a little while before going back to the hotel to get ready for the evening.  Steve and Cheri went back to Chipotle (again) and played more craps / penny slots.

We had tickets to the Cirque Michael Jackson One show, which was playing at Mandalay.  Matt and I went early and ate dinner at a fantastic Russian place called Red.  Then we went to an ice bar!  Everything was made of ice - the bar, the seats, even the drinking glasses.  We got these fun fur coats and hats to wear.  I felt like a polar bear.

We met Steve and Cheri afterwards and headed into the theater.  Cheri was able to get us even better seats.  We were literally front and center of the stage.  The show was amazing.  There was acrobatics, dancing and even a hologram of Michael during the last song.  You really felt like you were seeing him.  It was such a great show.  Afterwards, we headed back and passed out.  We knew we had a big day of travel ahead of us.

Such a wonderful trip!   The only thing missing was our little guy.  Not that he was missing us!  Dylan stayed with Nonnie and Grandad in McKinney.  His days were filled with chasing Casey, playing outside, going to the park, eating pancakes at McDonalds and having so much fun. 

SNOW again!

Love Texas weather.  One day it's 70 degrees and then next you get THREE inches of snow.

Deer Valley

Mom and Dad went to Deer Valley, UT for a little ski trip this past weekend.  It has been my dream to go back to Deer Valley.  When I was a teenager, I went with my whole family to Deer Valley and it was so magical.  I couldn't wait for this trip.

Boy was it an adventure even before it started!

On Thursday, we cut it just a little short and missed our flight to Park City.  Doh!  So, we put our names in to fly standby for the later (and last) flight that night.  We had a few hours to kill, so we went to Pappasitos and had some queso (yum) and margaritas because why not...  When we went to the gate, we were really nervous because there was a long line of people also on standby.  Luckily only 3 standby passengers made it on the flight - your dad and I were two of these three.

Once we got to Park City, we had to collect all of our bags (full of ski stuff), find our rental car and drive about an hour into the mountains.  It was bone dry in Park City but in Deer Valley it was kind of snowy.  We brought the snow... but I'll get to that later.

Early Friday morning, we got up, ate breakfast (Dara had trouble with the waffle maker), went to the rental place which was in our hotel and then we hit the slopes.  By lunch time, there was HUGE snowflakes coming down and the skiing was really fun.  We went down a lot of greens and then blues.  For lunch, we went to the lodge and had French fries and Paninis and texted with our friends and family back home.  There was a huge snowstorm in Dallas and so we got the update and high fived each other that we didn't have to deal with that.

After skiing, we headed to the hot tub.  The snow was still coming down pretty consistently.  It made for beautiful surroundings.  For dinner, we went to the Viking Yurt!  We met a group at the Park City resort and loaded into a huge snow cat with a ginormous sleigh.  At first I was sad that we couldn't get to ride on the sleigh but the snow cat cab was so nice and warm, I quickly go over this.  We rode for about 30 minutes up one of the green snow runs to a Viking Yurt.  The yurt was very small and held about 30 people plus waiters and cooks.  We sat by this really nice couple with a 6 month old.  It made us miss Dylan so much but it was funny to share "war" stories about raising a baby.  They were a very interesting couple.  He was from Croatia and she was from Detroit.  They met in college, moved to Switzerland for awhile and then landed somehow in California.  After the five course meal, we went back down in the snow cat cab.  We tried to go get a drink in town but the bars were packed....and closing...at midnight.  Sigh.

The next morning, we woke up, again went to dinner (again Dara had trouble with the waffle maker) and loaded into the van to go back to the resort.  We were some of the first on the slopes that morning.  The runs were covered in fresh powder and it was beautiful.  We rode up the life with a guy and his wife that worked with Blue Bunny and so we talked shop about ice cream.  I wish I had his job.  Or maybe just the ice cream :)

During lunch, we went to the cafeteria and again the snow started really coming down.  We skied a couple more runs and then again went to the hot tub.  Dad the greatest thing!  He booked a couples massage right in our room...well, our room was a little small so we went next door to this ski palace...  and the massage was amazing.  Afterwards, we went up into the mountains to go on a sleigh ride and have dinner at a place called Fireside Dining.  The sleigh ride was a lot of fun.  The sleight was drawn by Jan and Dan the horses and a cowboy.  We went vertical up one of the ski runs.  And then at the bottom near the restaurant the horses did donuts in the sleigh as we skated around.  It was so much fun.  Dinner was incredible.  They cooked everything by fireside.  There was melting cheese as an appetizer.  The most amazing cheese I've ever had.  Dad had 3 plates.  Then there were stews and leg of lamb and amazing sides.  And then... uhhh one of the best parts of the meal...a fondue bar.  It was heaven.  After dinner, we slowly made our way down the mountain (it was still snowing!) and we went into town to get a drink.  The place we really wanted to go to was again packed so we went across the street and had some chocolate milk and beers.  We watched some college basketball in the bar.

On Sunday, we went shopping in downtown Park City.  We got some gifts for everyone and really just enjoyed taking it easy and being with each other.  We found out that there really hadn't been that much snow this season but the weekend we were there, there was 11 inches of snow.  You're welcome Utah.

On the way back to the airport, we stopped to see Leah, Chase and their kiddos.  Nash is only 90 days younger than you.  We also got to see the plot of land where they are building their house.  Since we just went through that process, we shared many tips and ideas.  I can't wait to see their house.  I'm sure it will be so beautiful.  The trip home was uneventful.  We were delayed a little but made it home and little Dylan was there courtesy of Papa.  I know they loved having the little guy stay with them and we were so happy to get back to him.  It was a wonderful trip - one that we hope to take Little D with us sometime on.

SNOW!

Well, we thought we would be starting your new school on Monday but Dallas has had it's share of weather issues this week.  Sunday night, it started raining....sleeting...and then icing.  On Tuesday, we got a ton of snow (which melted in the afternoon).  We have been taking advantage of the weather.   We have spent the days playing inside (you love the giant exercise ball, the rock learning table and barrel of monkeys. 

On Friday, while mom and dad were in Park City, UT, there was even another snow storm.  You were staying with Mimi and Papa for the weekend.  They told us that there was no shortage of toys for you to play with .  On Saturday, you guys got to go to the mall.  You were in heaven pointing at everything.  Sunday, they attempted to take you to church but had to take you home early because you melted down during the service.

New School

We got news that the school we had wanted to put Dylan at originally would finally be opening on February 23rd.  So, while this was good news, we had to tell this sweet school that he had been attending that we would be leaving.  We have really enjoyed getting to know the teachers and administrators over these past 8 months.  His new school will be much closer to my office and their hours are a little better so it will make pick up and drop offs much easier.

We went to meet the teacher night this past Friday and met Dylan's new teachers - Ms. Ann and Ms. Bekah.  It 's a beautiful new school,  His class has it's own baby playground and even a chef!

Dylan has been pointing up a storm.  Your point is much more like a L.  You stick out your pointer finger and thumb.  You LOVE light switches.  You love to turn the lights on and off and look back to see if it worked.  Most of the time it does.  You clap and shake your head "no" to dance.  You actually shake your head "no" to a lot of things.  You giggle when your dad swats flies (grrrrr flies) on the front porch.  You sleep like an ostrich with your face planted and bottom up in the air.  Even with a helmet, this is your sleep position of choice. 

Be My Valentine

You are just a ball of energy these days.  You crawl everywhere and get into everything.  You have started opening cabinets.  I found you the other day in the midst of tons of plastic cups that you had pulled down off the kitchen island shelves.  You are QUICK when you crawl.  You stop yourself by sticking out a leg and pointing your toes.  Speaking of pointing, you are pointing nonstop.  Every light, speaker, fire alarm, speck of dust and even people’s faces are prime pointing places.  You love to “pet” Missy by touching her with your pointer finger.  Every time you point at something, you always say “ooh.”  You also have found joy pushing this enormous blue exercise ball across the kitchen floor and love to play.  You have started clapping.  You clap when you do something that you like or to music.  You just love music – especially the toy house radio that you play with in your playroom.

Your dad went skiing out of town last week (Thursday – Sunday) for work.  He takes an annual trip to Beaver Creek with people from his work.  This meant that I got you all to myself – which was so much fun.  We spent much of our weekend eating (of course), playing, taking walks, going to Gymboree, playing bubbles, going to the park and just hanging out with your mom.  On Saturday night, mom hosted her old book club for one of the girl’s pre-bachelorette party.  After a little bit of time to warm up, you loved being held and passed around by everyone.  Although you did NOT want me to put you on the ground to crawl.  There was way too much action for that! 

Poor baby.  This past Tuesday, school called and you were sick.  You were running a 101 temperature.  We gave you Tylenol and Pedialyte (which you loved) and cuddled you tight.  Luckily the next day, even though we kept you home from school, you felt much better.  We received notice that your new school is ready to open so I sadly had to tell your other school that February would be the last month that you will attend there.  I was heartbroken.  We have really loved our time there and the teachers are wonderful.  Your new school is much closer to my work and there are so much fun things that you will get to do.  There’s a theater, Spanish classes, a garden, daily book readings, health eating and physical activity.  You will have a playground that is made just for your age!  We start in a couple of weeks and I’m excited that you will get to attend.  You were the first kid to register for this school.  I registered you when you were only a month old.   

This weekend was Valentine’s Day and it was extra special to me this year because I got two valentines.  Saturday morning, we met in Addison for a meeting to do with a restaurant chain that we are investing in.  You didn’t last long in the meeting.  You wanted to crawl and point, so I took you in the lobby.  We pointed at all of the lights, ate bottles and purees and looked at some new apps that I downloaded for you.  After a while, Granddad came out to play with you too.  You promptly threw up on him.  Poor Granddad.  After the meeting, we met Nonnie at BJ’s in Plano and had a great lunch.  You slept through the first part and sat in a high chair for the second part.  You just love being a part of the group.  Instead of going out, your dad and I decided to stay in a make a special Valentine’s Day dinner (steak, mashed potatoes and artichokes).  You snoozed right through it.  We also started planning an Italy trip that we are going to take this summer.  Sunday, your day was filled with playing, Gymboree, and even a nice run outside.  You love to be outside.     

New Band Bling

This past weekend I took you to Grand Prairie to get your band all blinged up.  I had been working with a lady over email to pick out a band design and get your measurements over to her.  WOW.  What a huge difference.  I picked out a camo design with your name on front and almost immediately it made that very clinically feeling white band much more fun.  You don’t mind the band at all these days so I doubt you even noticed a difference but it really makes this process much easier for your mom and dad.  The band is going great by the way.  We went last week and I’m already seeing great results.

You are SUPER busy these days.  The days of taking you to restaurants for a nice, relaxing dinner may be over.  On Friday night, we went to Matt’s and halfway through dinner you completely lost it.  We chugged our drinks and grabbed tortillas for the ride home.  On Saturday, while your band was getting done, I took you to Michaels.  OH DEAR.  You lunged for every fake flower and Valentines Day decoration.  On Saturday night, we went to dinner with Mimi and Papa and you bawled until we picked you up and walked around with you.  It’s okay.  You are a baby after all but we have just been spoiled.

You saw a building implode with your daddy!  The building had to come down to make room for a Sam's club. 

Sunday night, we went to the Blankenships for the Super Bowl.  The dads watched the Super Bowl in the media room while the moms chatted in the kitchen.  You got to hang out with the big boys!  Their sweet boys took great care of you and let you play with their toys – which you loved!!!

We started Gymboree classes this past weekend and even though you were way too old for the other babies in the class that we took you too (you were literally running over the other babies), you LOVED the slides, the bubbles (blew your mind) and that parachute.  I can’t wait to take you to other classes.