So.....This past December, we painted the upstairs living room a green, khaki, brown combo. It ended up looking great, plus gave the room (all khaki) good dimension and that "homey" feeling I was looking for.
This spring....it's time to prep for the new baby...so....we are going to move Theodore into his own room for his 2nd birthday this August. That means a big boy bed (twin with those side rail thingies), organizing the closet, getting new storage-or other, etc.
SO....I posed the question to my Facebook friends: how do YOU organize your kiddo closets?
I got lots of responses....everything from hang the clothes to use drawers to we have NO IDEA!
My sister, Karen, found a rockin ikea desk/shelf combo that she uses for my cute nephew's room. It is more money than we want to spend right now, so I have had my eyes open for a desk at garage sales. The idea is that when kiddo has outgrown the "diaper" phase of life, there will be no need for a changing table. YUP....but--we have a kiddo on the way....so right now, we have two of those cube-shelf thingies from Target put together with a changing pad on top. It works great for a changing table, but we don't use all the shelves very effectively. SO-a friend suggested I take the cubey shelf thingies and put them in Theodore's new room closet for shelving. OOH, I LIKE IT! BUT......
What about a changing table? So that's where my sister comes in. We like the idea of using a desk and then building up a platform like my dad did for her to bring the "desk" height up to waist height. Awesome! SO....I found an affordable desk....and things are in the works. Hoping to be done and have some pictures up by August.
Also....Paint colors....
We want to go with something neutral-so we tossed around the ideas:
orange, yellow, green, gray...........something somewhat "gender neutral"
We ended up choosing a gray room with a yellow closet. Odd? perhaps....but we like it. Today we are going to start the process of priming, hoping to paint later tonight and tomorrow-but we will see how far we get.
I have already repainted a dresser which I aquired from my parents. In fact, I do believe it was MY childhood dresser! It needed a round of white paint, and now looks new. I can't wait to see it all come together! Chris isn't nearly as excited as myself-and Theo--well, he has really no idea what's going on with this other room. He just keeps saying "mama-paint-wall". haha, yes--we are going to paint Teddy!!
Well, pictures to come....and hopefully more updates as well! (no promises on when pics....since my least favorite thing to do is download and upload them from the camera ! but eventually......!!!)
Saturday, June 16, 2012
Friday, June 15, 2012
Home, Sweet Home
Hello again friends. It is now JUNE. I have been pondering for awhile now WHEN to find the time to write. So, here I am! I intended on writing yesterday, but kaboom-my computer went ZAP and the power in our home went out...at 2:15pm....and the hard workers of Westar Energy finally got it back up and running late last night. THANK YOU!!!
So-here's what we have been up to:
Me: I started selling Premier Designs Jewelry this past January...and find that it is not only rewarding and fun, but also profitable. Who knew such a combo existed, right!? If you are interested in coming to or having your own show, let me know! I like to tell people my job, other than full time stay at home mom, is to give away jewelry for half price and free. What a job!
Chris: Still working hard, and (as Theo says) FLY FLY Daddy FLY up UP!! (as he points to the sky and waves, blowing kisses. How cute!? He takes after me...! : )
Theodore: almost TWO this August!! WOAH! His latest phrases:
"Doctor--Mommy--poke, belly---BAAAAAAAby!"
(Yes, Teddy, Mama is going to have a baby this November. Not sure he really knows what that all means, but he knows what a baby is, and he knows that when we go to the doctor, the doc pokes on my belly. I'm still in the "beer belly" phase as I like to call it-so just a pudgy belly....not looking too preggo yet-but anxiously awaiting the "obviously pregnant" stage so I stop getting those questionable stares!)
"Amblence--buckle--drive!" (this one just started yesterday. He calls his Grandpa Terry "buckle". Not sure where this one came from, but in his head it is Grandpa-so I suppose it works! Yesterday, Terry came into town with the ambulance from out west. He was picking up a patient and returning them home, so he swung by for a quick snack, to see Teddy, and say hi. Theodore was SO excited to see Grandpa...but not sure what to think of the ambulance...but he sure liked the lights! After Grandpa left, Theo said "NANA amblance!!! buckle!!! drive!!!!" We all got a kick out of his enthusiasm and quick pick up of the words. He is nearly speaking sentances!)
There are so many things that kiddos say and I'm sure there are novels out there with great stories. I'm thrilled to be making our own little novel of life. What fun!
---
Next week is the annual Women's Air Race Classic (www.airraceclassic.org)
My K-State girls are actually taking 2 teams this year! I am anxiously awaiting a phone call from them later today. They are enroute to the starting line! They will come through Goodland, KS on either Tuesday afternoon or Wednesday the 20th next week.I can't wait to see them! Theodore and I will be heading out west to go see the crew, volunteer, and then spend some time with Nana and Grandpa. We are really looking forward to it.
So, there's a quick brief. I'm sure there is more to come, just drawing a blank at the moment!
So-here's what we have been up to:
Me: I started selling Premier Designs Jewelry this past January...and find that it is not only rewarding and fun, but also profitable. Who knew such a combo existed, right!? If you are interested in coming to or having your own show, let me know! I like to tell people my job, other than full time stay at home mom, is to give away jewelry for half price and free. What a job!
Chris: Still working hard, and (as Theo says) FLY FLY Daddy FLY up UP!! (as he points to the sky and waves, blowing kisses. How cute!? He takes after me...! : )
Theodore: almost TWO this August!! WOAH! His latest phrases:
"Doctor--Mommy--poke, belly---BAAAAAAAby!"
(Yes, Teddy, Mama is going to have a baby this November. Not sure he really knows what that all means, but he knows what a baby is, and he knows that when we go to the doctor, the doc pokes on my belly. I'm still in the "beer belly" phase as I like to call it-so just a pudgy belly....not looking too preggo yet-but anxiously awaiting the "obviously pregnant" stage so I stop getting those questionable stares!)
"Amblence--buckle--drive!" (this one just started yesterday. He calls his Grandpa Terry "buckle". Not sure where this one came from, but in his head it is Grandpa-so I suppose it works! Yesterday, Terry came into town with the ambulance from out west. He was picking up a patient and returning them home, so he swung by for a quick snack, to see Teddy, and say hi. Theodore was SO excited to see Grandpa...but not sure what to think of the ambulance...but he sure liked the lights! After Grandpa left, Theo said "NANA amblance!!! buckle!!! drive!!!!" We all got a kick out of his enthusiasm and quick pick up of the words. He is nearly speaking sentances!)
There are so many things that kiddos say and I'm sure there are novels out there with great stories. I'm thrilled to be making our own little novel of life. What fun!
---
Next week is the annual Women's Air Race Classic (www.airraceclassic.org)
My K-State girls are actually taking 2 teams this year! I am anxiously awaiting a phone call from them later today. They are enroute to the starting line! They will come through Goodland, KS on either Tuesday afternoon or Wednesday the 20th next week.I can't wait to see them! Theodore and I will be heading out west to go see the crew, volunteer, and then spend some time with Nana and Grandpa. We are really looking forward to it.
So, there's a quick brief. I'm sure there is more to come, just drawing a blank at the moment!
Tuesday, February 28, 2012
Promotion! And Going to the Moon in My House!
It is now February of 2012. A LOT has happened since last October when I last blogged. Things have gotten a little crazy, but they are good...no-GREAT!
Right as we get into the "groove" of Chris being home, the typical constant in our lives occurred: CHANGE! About a week before Halloween 2011, I (Robin) was put on furlough from Yingling Aviation. So...I was kind-of-a: "Part-Time-Full-Time Stay at Home Mom." What a deal! I got the priveledge of trying out the staying home gig with the intent of being home only about 6 weeks and then going back to work around Christmas time. What a deal! It's like an internship...only better! I get the best of both worlds! Job waiting for me at work and wonderful time at home with my darling, Theo!
I was told to expect to go back around December 15th...ish. The date came and went. No Call. So-I enjoyed some wonderful time at home with the family for the holidays. No problem-thank you !!
I kept in touch with "the guys" and they kept me updated on progress, and how things were. Slowly, things I began to get the feeling that I wasn't going to get to go back. Long story short, Yingling was up for another contract with Cessna to discuss whether to "renew" the contract on the Skycatcher Program. I do not know all the details-but what I do know is no agreement was reached-all the individuals on the program were either repositioned as much as possible or laid off. While this is sad news for a number of wonderful individuals that I worked with, it was nice closure for me. I felt like I always "had to be ready" to go back into work, get daycare, arrange things, etc. when I got called to go back. BUT--the call never came, and it will not any more. The program has gone down to Independance, Kansas where they will continue to reassemble the Skycatcher aircraft for Cessna.
While I had a BLAST working on the program-and it was an honor to be selected-I feel I gained valuable experience while employed and expanded my skill set, yet again. I have been extremely blessed to have worked with such talented, dedicated individuals, as well as made some life-long friends. Cheers to that!
So-where do I go from here? While I am sad to not be up in the air daily, I am thrilled to be here at home with my little darling, Theo. Chris has finally settled into his job at Flight Safety in the King Air 350 Program as an Instructor. It is nice having him home and being able to enjoy some much needed family time.
So...what am I going to do now? Well, for those of you who know me well, I will always love space...and I have had the priviledge to have had the opportunity to take a little glimpse of what it might be like to go to the Moon. Last week, I was watching my friends kiddo's, and the oldest, Danny, was looking at a space book we had here on the shelf. He was so funny. He asked some simple questions, and I explained things to him. Just a few short minutes later, he grabbed a puzzle-piece foam cube I had made, and put it on his head, and was walking around the basement being "an astronaut" !!! So, while it appears that I may not be getting any closer to going to the Moon, these kiddo's sure put a smile on my face that day. And, even if I never make it there, I feel like I have gotten to experience it a little...! See a picture of Danny and his two sisters being "astronauts". They even were on the couch, pretending to "take off" and it was soooooo cuuuuute!
Right as we get into the "groove" of Chris being home, the typical constant in our lives occurred: CHANGE! About a week before Halloween 2011, I (Robin) was put on furlough from Yingling Aviation. So...I was kind-of-a: "Part-Time-Full-Time Stay at Home Mom." What a deal! I got the priveledge of trying out the staying home gig with the intent of being home only about 6 weeks and then going back to work around Christmas time. What a deal! It's like an internship...only better! I get the best of both worlds! Job waiting for me at work and wonderful time at home with my darling, Theo!
I was told to expect to go back around December 15th...ish. The date came and went. No Call. So-I enjoyed some wonderful time at home with the family for the holidays. No problem-thank you !!
I kept in touch with "the guys" and they kept me updated on progress, and how things were. Slowly, things I began to get the feeling that I wasn't going to get to go back. Long story short, Yingling was up for another contract with Cessna to discuss whether to "renew" the contract on the Skycatcher Program. I do not know all the details-but what I do know is no agreement was reached-all the individuals on the program were either repositioned as much as possible or laid off. While this is sad news for a number of wonderful individuals that I worked with, it was nice closure for me. I felt like I always "had to be ready" to go back into work, get daycare, arrange things, etc. when I got called to go back. BUT--the call never came, and it will not any more. The program has gone down to Independance, Kansas where they will continue to reassemble the Skycatcher aircraft for Cessna.
While I had a BLAST working on the program-and it was an honor to be selected-I feel I gained valuable experience while employed and expanded my skill set, yet again. I have been extremely blessed to have worked with such talented, dedicated individuals, as well as made some life-long friends. Cheers to that!
So-where do I go from here? While I am sad to not be up in the air daily, I am thrilled to be here at home with my little darling, Theo. Chris has finally settled into his job at Flight Safety in the King Air 350 Program as an Instructor. It is nice having him home and being able to enjoy some much needed family time.
So...what am I going to do now? Well, for those of you who know me well, I will always love space...and I have had the priviledge to have had the opportunity to take a little glimpse of what it might be like to go to the Moon. Last week, I was watching my friends kiddo's, and the oldest, Danny, was looking at a space book we had here on the shelf. He was so funny. He asked some simple questions, and I explained things to him. Just a few short minutes later, he grabbed a puzzle-piece foam cube I had made, and put it on his head, and was walking around the basement being "an astronaut" !!! So, while it appears that I may not be getting any closer to going to the Moon, these kiddo's sure put a smile on my face that day. And, even if I never make it there, I feel like I have gotten to experience it a little...! See a picture of Danny and his two sisters being "astronauts". They even were on the couch, pretending to "take off" and it was soooooo cuuuuute!
So, here's to the many adventures that are ahead!
Tuesday, October 4, 2011
Fall Cleaning
Well, I FINALLY did it...I moved my junk out of my parent's house...yeah...after...entirely too many years of telling them "yeah mom n dad...I am going to clean out my old room" So.....I finally did...HOW did I accumulate so MUCH junk!?
I think there is an art to cleaning and I am not so good at either art or cleaning...! Needless to say we took the 'box and sort later' approach. We loaded up our car with boxes and set out on the endeavor at my parent's house. It took most of the day...cleaning the closet, boxing up stuffed animals (a lot of cows!), and clothes. So now...all that stuff is in my garage. And this week's project is to sort through it, donate, recycle, and trash items as needed. Motivation: we need to insulate the garage and I would LOVE to park my car in the garage again this winter....and my car has been sitting on the driveway since June...when we began our bathroom project. So...needless to say, it's time to clean the garage and my junk and park in the garage again.
So...What have I found with my cleaning? Well...Memories:
I found that I have a wonderful network of friends. Some I have kept up with, some I have not. I have Had some wonderful pictures, memories, and even some funny stories to go along with the years of junk I have accumulated. I had a lot of letters that I had kept and enjoyed re-reading the memories and seeing the pictures of faces I had long ago forgotten. I am really blessed.
So the sorting began, much like the Harry Potter fans will relate to with the sorting hat. I set out my boxes: donate, trash, recycle, re-gift (toys to friends kids), etc.
I have now made it through ALL the boxes...but still not a clean garage. Well...closer! So my job for the rest of the week is to clean up the piles, etc. And hopefully we will get to start insulating the garage this weekend! Keep your fingers crossed!
So--that's my latest project.
On another note, Chris passed his King Air 350 Checkride last Friday. YAY! So proud of him!
Kiddo Update: He figured out how to open and close the screen door. Lucky us. And...he has started the "tantrum" stage....oh boy...here goes nuthin'!
I think there is an art to cleaning and I am not so good at either art or cleaning...! Needless to say we took the 'box and sort later' approach. We loaded up our car with boxes and set out on the endeavor at my parent's house. It took most of the day...cleaning the closet, boxing up stuffed animals (a lot of cows!), and clothes. So now...all that stuff is in my garage. And this week's project is to sort through it, donate, recycle, and trash items as needed. Motivation: we need to insulate the garage and I would LOVE to park my car in the garage again this winter....and my car has been sitting on the driveway since June...when we began our bathroom project. So...needless to say, it's time to clean the garage and my junk and park in the garage again.
So...What have I found with my cleaning? Well...Memories:
I found that I have a wonderful network of friends. Some I have kept up with, some I have not. I have Had some wonderful pictures, memories, and even some funny stories to go along with the years of junk I have accumulated. I had a lot of letters that I had kept and enjoyed re-reading the memories and seeing the pictures of faces I had long ago forgotten. I am really blessed.
So the sorting began, much like the Harry Potter fans will relate to with the sorting hat. I set out my boxes: donate, trash, recycle, re-gift (toys to friends kids), etc.
I have now made it through ALL the boxes...but still not a clean garage. Well...closer! So my job for the rest of the week is to clean up the piles, etc. And hopefully we will get to start insulating the garage this weekend! Keep your fingers crossed!
So--that's my latest project.
On another note, Chris passed his King Air 350 Checkride last Friday. YAY! So proud of him!
Kiddo Update: He figured out how to open and close the screen door. Lucky us. And...he has started the "tantrum" stage....oh boy...here goes nuthin'!
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
Its September!
Wow...September...ALREADY!?!
What have we been up to lately? Let me start today and roll backwards:
For me, things have been busy as ever at work...a "typical" week we deliver 4ish...more or less... airplanes. In the past couple of weeks, I have been blessed to double that number...so I have been flying like crazy. This past week, I have finally had a chance to catch my breath. YAY! I am still loving what I'm doing. In fact-yesterday I even got to make a "short approach" (aka...hurry up and go to the runway and land as quickly as possible) so I zoomed in...fast...(ok...so like 120 knots...plus a bit of a tail wind)...and that is still way slower than Chris' beloved 757 or 767..but it's fast for a Skycatcher!...landed, pulled off, and the controller says: Nice Job, Thanks for the help! (and I grin thinking, THAT was fun!)
Chris started a new job last week. Working here in town again...5 or 6 days a week, but home every night. WOW...never thought we would have a "normal" life again. I guess we are transitioning to a new "normal." Theodore is LOVING it and I am getting used to seeing my other 1/2 again.
It's funny: When we dated...we only lived in the same place for three months until Chris graduated...and dated for eight months...were engaged....then got married just over a year later...of that time...we only lived in the same town for three months...wow...I guess looking back at it-it's pretty good we are good at communicating-since we ended up spending so much time apart! In the past two years, (well, 1.75 years), our schedule has been to see each other two weeks on and two weeks off (if we were lucky)...and seeing each other every day is going to take some getting used to. Not to mention, the past year, my work schedule had been CRAZY...so we are looking forward to a new "normal" and "family" life. FINALLY!
A comical moment:
This morning, I wake up for my usual routine, then the baby wakes up. Rats. I think he heard my alarm. grr... Oh and Chris is home-uhh...maybe the baby will go back to sleep? (no such luck) ok, I shower, then get him up, feed him....get ready....happy baby? yes-he is playing with daddy. Good! (that's a nice addition) Now...breakfast..hmm..oh he wants to eat my breakfast. No bubba, you get milk and graham crackers for now...you get breakfast at daycare.....and on we go...load up the car, get the baby and the essentials...off we go!
We are getting used to the fact that I am the morning person and Chris is the night owl. Right as I am winding down from my day, he asks something "important" like about the bank, or a schedule, or something....and I look at him: Darlin, I know this is important, but it's past my internal clock's ability to function with any intelligent thought process right now. Can it wait until morning when I can comprehend this topic? (and he usually responds..but I will not be able to comprehend it in the morning...it can wait until lunch!) hahahaaa.....equal and opposite. Love it!
Last week (or two?? Whenever Labor Day was) I had the privilege of introducing Dr. Peggy Chabrian (founder and President of Women in Aviation International www.wai.org) to a group for lunch. I was honored and excited! I am the president of a local provisional chapter for this group...and still have some paperwork to finish to become an official chapter.(I need to finish that! the "to do list" keeps getting longer!) She and her husband, Jerry, were even able to come to Yingling for a tour of the Skycatchers and I was excited to show them around. What an honor.
We also finished our BATHROOM PROJECT! WOW! Yes...after about two months of anxious anticipation of the "unfinished" bathroom in our basement, we FINALLY got the walls painted, trim up, towel racks up, etc. We even had a "potty party" to celebrate the hard work of our friend and carpenter. It was a great time.
Oh---and August...we celebrated Theodore's 1st Birthday!
We had family over to celebrate his big day. Our friend, Niki, also has kiddo's with his birthday, so we even had a small friend party. Theodore enjoyed the cake and ice cream...and I think now he knows what they are....so we have to be careful!
Much before that, my brain is going foggy on what we have been up to. I spend most of July flying in 115 degree heat...in my flight suit...and chugging Gatorade like it was going out of style. It was sad when 95 degrees felt like a cold front. And now we have 75 degree weather....and colder...it feels like winter.
Other than that, we are LOVING being in Wichita with some great family and friends. I am sad to say that I will not be getting much more international chocolate. sigh....I guess there was something good about Chris flying all over the world. But I am sure glad to have him home.
God Bless Friends. We love you all!
What have we been up to lately? Let me start today and roll backwards:
For me, things have been busy as ever at work...a "typical" week we deliver 4ish...more or less... airplanes. In the past couple of weeks, I have been blessed to double that number...so I have been flying like crazy. This past week, I have finally had a chance to catch my breath. YAY! I am still loving what I'm doing. In fact-yesterday I even got to make a "short approach" (aka...hurry up and go to the runway and land as quickly as possible) so I zoomed in...fast...(ok...so like 120 knots...plus a bit of a tail wind)...and that is still way slower than Chris' beloved 757 or 767..but it's fast for a Skycatcher!...landed, pulled off, and the controller says: Nice Job, Thanks for the help! (and I grin thinking, THAT was fun!)
Chris started a new job last week. Working here in town again...5 or 6 days a week, but home every night. WOW...never thought we would have a "normal" life again. I guess we are transitioning to a new "normal." Theodore is LOVING it and I am getting used to seeing my other 1/2 again.
It's funny: When we dated...we only lived in the same place for three months until Chris graduated...and dated for eight months...were engaged....then got married just over a year later...of that time...we only lived in the same town for three months...wow...I guess looking back at it-it's pretty good we are good at communicating-since we ended up spending so much time apart! In the past two years, (well, 1.75 years), our schedule has been to see each other two weeks on and two weeks off (if we were lucky)...and seeing each other every day is going to take some getting used to. Not to mention, the past year, my work schedule had been CRAZY...so we are looking forward to a new "normal" and "family" life. FINALLY!
A comical moment:
This morning, I wake up for my usual routine, then the baby wakes up. Rats. I think he heard my alarm. grr... Oh and Chris is home-uhh...maybe the baby will go back to sleep? (no such luck) ok, I shower, then get him up, feed him....get ready....happy baby? yes-he is playing with daddy. Good! (that's a nice addition) Now...breakfast..hmm..oh he wants to eat my breakfast. No bubba, you get milk and graham crackers for now...you get breakfast at daycare.....and on we go...load up the car, get the baby and the essentials...off we go!
We are getting used to the fact that I am the morning person and Chris is the night owl. Right as I am winding down from my day, he asks something "important" like about the bank, or a schedule, or something....and I look at him: Darlin, I know this is important, but it's past my internal clock's ability to function with any intelligent thought process right now. Can it wait until morning when I can comprehend this topic? (and he usually responds..but I will not be able to comprehend it in the morning...it can wait until lunch!) hahahaaa.....equal and opposite. Love it!
Last week (or two?? Whenever Labor Day was) I had the privilege of introducing Dr. Peggy Chabrian (founder and President of Women in Aviation International www.wai.org) to a group for lunch. I was honored and excited! I am the president of a local provisional chapter for this group...and still have some paperwork to finish to become an official chapter.(I need to finish that! the "to do list" keeps getting longer!) She and her husband, Jerry, were even able to come to Yingling for a tour of the Skycatchers and I was excited to show them around. What an honor.
We also finished our BATHROOM PROJECT! WOW! Yes...after about two months of anxious anticipation of the "unfinished" bathroom in our basement, we FINALLY got the walls painted, trim up, towel racks up, etc. We even had a "potty party" to celebrate the hard work of our friend and carpenter. It was a great time.
Oh---and August...we celebrated Theodore's 1st Birthday!
We had family over to celebrate his big day. Our friend, Niki, also has kiddo's with his birthday, so we even had a small friend party. Theodore enjoyed the cake and ice cream...and I think now he knows what they are....so we have to be careful!
Much before that, my brain is going foggy on what we have been up to. I spend most of July flying in 115 degree heat...in my flight suit...and chugging Gatorade like it was going out of style. It was sad when 95 degrees felt like a cold front. And now we have 75 degree weather....and colder...it feels like winter.
Other than that, we are LOVING being in Wichita with some great family and friends. I am sad to say that I will not be getting much more international chocolate. sigh....I guess there was something good about Chris flying all over the world. But I am sure glad to have him home.
God Bless Friends. We love you all!
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
Weekend Trip
This past weekend, Chris, Theodore, and I went to Salina on Friday night. Chris went on to Kansas City and Theodore and I had a wonderful weekend. Saturday we hung out with Auntie Karen and Uncle Erik and Fur-Cousin Bailey Dog and Fur-Cousin Essie-Cat. Watching Theodore and Bailey play together was funny. As Chris describes it: They are both uncontrolled creatures. Theodore is trying to walk and then falls over. Bailey tries to move and figure out where Theodore's going, then ends up walking into him. They both end up wondering what the other is going to do! Needless to say, they both had a good time. Theodore seems to like animals. He even found Essie sitting patiently on a chair....and Theodore decided to go pet the kitty. Well, he got one or two good, soft pets in before Essie decided she was done with that! It was pretty cute.
We also went to the swimming pool. Theodore seems to enjoy that quite a bit. He loves splashing and playing with fountains of water. He doesn't seem to be afraid of getting his face wet either, so that's good! We all had a wonderful time.
Saturday night Karen watched the baby while I went to church. It was nice to have some me and God time without wondering what Theodore was getting into. THANKS AUNTIE KAREN!!!
After church, we had a quick dinner and then departed for Wakefield, KS where our friends from college, Cristina, Josh and their two kiddo's live. It was WAY past Theodore's bedtime by the time we arrived, but luckily he settled in quickly and fell asleep for the night. Cristina and I enjoyed chatting and even got a little laundry folding done. We both agreed that it's nice to have wonderful hubby's who are better at putting clothes away than we are! They also do well at matching the socks....and Chris is especially good at making sure the things get put on hangers....which is nice because by the time I get all the shirts folded, he has everything hung up. What a team. Speaking of which...I think I have at least 3 baskets of folded laundry to attend to at home....hmm....Chris....you will be home soon, right?!
Today is a little slow for me. I am not doing much flying, but that's OK. I am hoping to be "done" working today by lunchtime because the heat is...well...hot. Somehow wearing a flame retardant flight suit gets warm....it doesn't breathe much, but we sure look cool.
Last night I got to see some good friends of ours who live in Indiana! Theodore and I had a wonderful time seeing them, and hope they get to come back soon.
Tomorrow I'm looking forward to a visit from a college friend who will be in town for a few hours. We might even get to fo for a fun flight! Can't wait!
So...whatever each of you are doing today...stay cool and enjoy!
We also went to the swimming pool. Theodore seems to enjoy that quite a bit. He loves splashing and playing with fountains of water. He doesn't seem to be afraid of getting his face wet either, so that's good! We all had a wonderful time.
Saturday night Karen watched the baby while I went to church. It was nice to have some me and God time without wondering what Theodore was getting into. THANKS AUNTIE KAREN!!!
After church, we had a quick dinner and then departed for Wakefield, KS where our friends from college, Cristina, Josh and their two kiddo's live. It was WAY past Theodore's bedtime by the time we arrived, but luckily he settled in quickly and fell asleep for the night. Cristina and I enjoyed chatting and even got a little laundry folding done. We both agreed that it's nice to have wonderful hubby's who are better at putting clothes away than we are! They also do well at matching the socks....and Chris is especially good at making sure the things get put on hangers....which is nice because by the time I get all the shirts folded, he has everything hung up. What a team. Speaking of which...I think I have at least 3 baskets of folded laundry to attend to at home....hmm....Chris....you will be home soon, right?!
Today is a little slow for me. I am not doing much flying, but that's OK. I am hoping to be "done" working today by lunchtime because the heat is...well...hot. Somehow wearing a flame retardant flight suit gets warm....it doesn't breathe much, but we sure look cool.
Last night I got to see some good friends of ours who live in Indiana! Theodore and I had a wonderful time seeing them, and hope they get to come back soon.
Tomorrow I'm looking forward to a visit from a college friend who will be in town for a few hours. We might even get to fo for a fun flight! Can't wait!
So...whatever each of you are doing today...stay cool and enjoy!
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
Happy 4th of July
Well, this weekend has come and gone. I hope you each had a wonderful 4th!
I got to thinking about how blessed we all are to live in this country, where we have freedoms we don't ever think about. As many of you know, Chris travels around the world (literally) and sometimes stays in countries where there are not freedoms of speech, religion, etc. I cannot be more thankful of the wonderful country we live in. I remember several days when Chris could not even call home because some countries have "censored" or "monitored" connections. WOW. I have a hard time even fathoming that...but I know that it exists because we could not talk on the phone (well, phone via Internet) and that is an eye opener for me. Also, thanks to our wonderful military who give up years of their lives in serving this country to protect the freedoms we have. I can only understand a small portion of the sacrifice they give the rest of us, and I am so grateful for that. They give up time spent at home with loved ones, they sacrifice their lives--all for the rest of us. Thank you.
On the 3rd, our neighborhood decided to celebrate the holiday. The "party" started early--and there were things blowing up all night long. My parents and two brothers came over to see the festivities. Theodore loved the extra company and we all had a wonderful time. Our entire block comes together and has fireworks all night...it's pretty cool. So next year-anyone who doesn't have plans is welcome to invite themselves over for a good show. There are loud fireworks, pretty fireworks, and even a few smoke bombs in the mix. Plenty of entertainment !
On the 4th, we went to a fly-in at a local 99's (organization of women pilots: www.ninety-nines.org ) at an airstrip just West of Wichita. We had a wonderful time as a family! We visited with the pilots and Theodore even got to go on his first "small" airplane ride! He did REALLY well! I will try to post a few pictures soon.
I got to thinking about how blessed we all are to live in this country, where we have freedoms we don't ever think about. As many of you know, Chris travels around the world (literally) and sometimes stays in countries where there are not freedoms of speech, religion, etc. I cannot be more thankful of the wonderful country we live in. I remember several days when Chris could not even call home because some countries have "censored" or "monitored" connections. WOW. I have a hard time even fathoming that...but I know that it exists because we could not talk on the phone (well, phone via Internet) and that is an eye opener for me. Also, thanks to our wonderful military who give up years of their lives in serving this country to protect the freedoms we have. I can only understand a small portion of the sacrifice they give the rest of us, and I am so grateful for that. They give up time spent at home with loved ones, they sacrifice their lives--all for the rest of us. Thank you.
On the 3rd, our neighborhood decided to celebrate the holiday. The "party" started early--and there were things blowing up all night long. My parents and two brothers came over to see the festivities. Theodore loved the extra company and we all had a wonderful time. Our entire block comes together and has fireworks all night...it's pretty cool. So next year-anyone who doesn't have plans is welcome to invite themselves over for a good show. There are loud fireworks, pretty fireworks, and even a few smoke bombs in the mix. Plenty of entertainment !
On the 4th, we went to a fly-in at a local 99's (organization of women pilots: www.ninety-nines.org ) at an airstrip just West of Wichita. We had a wonderful time as a family! We visited with the pilots and Theodore even got to go on his first "small" airplane ride! He did REALLY well! I will try to post a few pictures soon.
Friday, June 10, 2011
Jobs, Birthday, Life
Wow...long time no chat!
Quick catch up:
In March, I put in my two weeks notice at the City of Wichita in the Operations Department. While I loved the work I was doing, the hours were tough, and getting increasingly more difficult with family life (and Theresa moving out in May). I accepted a job working for Yingling Aviation as a Production Test Pilot. WHAT?! Yes...."test" ...but "production test" is the important part. I am now back to flying airplanes...and loving it. Without going into a huge sappy story about how I enjoyed chasing coyotes...and the people I worked with, I will sum it all up in this phrase: I am grateful for the people who dedicated time and effort into expanding my opportunities in aviation. Thanks does not quite seem like enough gratitude to put into those who trained me--but I suppose it will have to suffice.
Now...Mid-March I began working as a Production Test Pilot. No...I'm not the person who is testing the limits of the airplane. Basically, in plain English-this is what I do:
The mechanics pull the airplanes off of crates and assemble the aircraft. I fly the newly assembled aircraft to make sure it meets certain specifications before it is delivered to the customer. So there is really nothing to be worried about! (heehee) As the girls at daycare say: "oh my! how dangerous!?!" But as my coworker says, "danger is not knowing what you are doing. I know exactly what I'm doing." And friends, I have to agree. I know the limits and I know when something is not right. And it's not knowing the limits that is dangerous. Thanks friend.
So...new job...yes..hours: roughtly 7am to whenever I get done. If it's too windy...well...sometimes there is work to do on the ground, sometimes not. Needless to say, I'm having to figure out what to do in my spare time. It's been great for family and friend life. I no longer to go to bed at 7pm. WOW! And yes, sometimes I still wake up at 4am...but that's OK. I get to stay up until 9-10pm now (YEAH...wow!) and I don't have to wake up until 5:15am. It's a nice change...and I'm loving the schedule.
Chris: still working for Omni and having fun going places. Speaking of....my sister-in-law, Theresa, did live with us for the past year or so. She moved out in May and also got a job at Omni...as a flight attendant! She is nearly done with training and (we are thrilled to report) that she is at the top of her class. We are so proud of her! She has missed Theodore dearly and I'm sure will pay us a visit soon.
Speaking of Theodore....he is nearly 10 months old...wow..........! He is crawling like crazy and still has only 6 teeth...but I have a sneaking suspicion that there are a handful more coming in any day. He is nearly walking...so close...but still likes to hold onto our fingers as he meanders around the house. He loves to play with open doors...and even tries to help me cook now and then. I let him play with tupperware and sometimes I even hold him while I'm food-processing stuff. He likes to watch me while I make his food. He's quite the big helper.
Birthday: Well, I'm now a quarter of a century old! wow. I had the most wonderful birthday. Most of my family/friends won the "rabbit rabbit" game...but that's OK. I went to work, came home, and had a wonderful dinner with my family. We tried a new recipe and even had time to play the game Boggle (one of my favorite games!! and Chris got it for me for my bday). I went to bed that night knowing I am loved, and thanking God for the many blessings in my life.
Well, that's most of what is on my mind for now. I figured it's been awhile, so I owed you all an update.
Much love,
The Laws Family
PS: Air Race Classic starts soon....10 days away! I'm going to be blogging for the KSU team...see the website:
ksuarc.blogspot.com
Quick catch up:
In March, I put in my two weeks notice at the City of Wichita in the Operations Department. While I loved the work I was doing, the hours were tough, and getting increasingly more difficult with family life (and Theresa moving out in May). I accepted a job working for Yingling Aviation as a Production Test Pilot. WHAT?! Yes...."test" ...but "production test" is the important part. I am now back to flying airplanes...and loving it. Without going into a huge sappy story about how I enjoyed chasing coyotes...and the people I worked with, I will sum it all up in this phrase: I am grateful for the people who dedicated time and effort into expanding my opportunities in aviation. Thanks does not quite seem like enough gratitude to put into those who trained me--but I suppose it will have to suffice.
Now...Mid-March I began working as a Production Test Pilot. No...I'm not the person who is testing the limits of the airplane. Basically, in plain English-this is what I do:
The mechanics pull the airplanes off of crates and assemble the aircraft. I fly the newly assembled aircraft to make sure it meets certain specifications before it is delivered to the customer. So there is really nothing to be worried about! (heehee) As the girls at daycare say: "oh my! how dangerous!?!" But as my coworker says, "danger is not knowing what you are doing. I know exactly what I'm doing." And friends, I have to agree. I know the limits and I know when something is not right. And it's not knowing the limits that is dangerous. Thanks friend.
So...new job...yes..hours: roughtly 7am to whenever I get done. If it's too windy...well...sometimes there is work to do on the ground, sometimes not. Needless to say, I'm having to figure out what to do in my spare time. It's been great for family and friend life. I no longer to go to bed at 7pm. WOW! And yes, sometimes I still wake up at 4am...but that's OK. I get to stay up until 9-10pm now (YEAH...wow!) and I don't have to wake up until 5:15am. It's a nice change...and I'm loving the schedule.
Chris: still working for Omni and having fun going places. Speaking of....my sister-in-law, Theresa, did live with us for the past year or so. She moved out in May and also got a job at Omni...as a flight attendant! She is nearly done with training and (we are thrilled to report) that she is at the top of her class. We are so proud of her! She has missed Theodore dearly and I'm sure will pay us a visit soon.
Speaking of Theodore....he is nearly 10 months old...wow..........! He is crawling like crazy and still has only 6 teeth...but I have a sneaking suspicion that there are a handful more coming in any day. He is nearly walking...so close...but still likes to hold onto our fingers as he meanders around the house. He loves to play with open doors...and even tries to help me cook now and then. I let him play with tupperware and sometimes I even hold him while I'm food-processing stuff. He likes to watch me while I make his food. He's quite the big helper.
Birthday: Well, I'm now a quarter of a century old! wow. I had the most wonderful birthday. Most of my family/friends won the "rabbit rabbit" game...but that's OK. I went to work, came home, and had a wonderful dinner with my family. We tried a new recipe and even had time to play the game Boggle (one of my favorite games!! and Chris got it for me for my bday). I went to bed that night knowing I am loved, and thanking God for the many blessings in my life.
Well, that's most of what is on my mind for now. I figured it's been awhile, so I owed you all an update.
Much love,
The Laws Family
PS: Air Race Classic starts soon....10 days away! I'm going to be blogging for the KSU team...see the website:
ksuarc.blogspot.com
Thursday, February 10, 2011
Snow Pictures!
Check out this link/story...
http://www.kansascw.com/kscw/news/kwch-news-dmh-crews-clear-runways-at-midcontinent-airport-20110209,0,6895925.story
AND: Compliments of my co-worker, Ty, he caught a few cool pics I would like to share. This is a great picture of a few pieces of equipment we have:
(From Left to Right: broom, snowplow, broom, snow-blower)
THIS is just GORGEOUS! It is the snow-blower:
Again, photo credit: my co-worker, Ty!!
http://www.kansascw.com/kscw/news/kwch-news-dmh-crews-clear-runways-at-midcontinent-airport-20110209,0,6895925.story
AND: Compliments of my co-worker, Ty, he caught a few cool pics I would like to share. This is a great picture of a few pieces of equipment we have:
(From Left to Right: broom, snowplow, broom, snow-blower)
THIS is just GORGEOUS! It is the snow-blower:
Again, photo credit: my co-worker, Ty!!
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
Snow-Boss 101
Plow on the left, and a Broom on the right:
Plows move the snow when it gets "thick" (usually anything more than 1/4 to 1/2 inches...they have to plow it then follow the plow with a broom to sweep the surface clean. Think of it like this (This example is compliment of my supervisor) If you took a broom out to your driveway first, it wouldn't do much good. If you took a snow shovel out, then came behind it with a broom, now that's effective)
Snow Blower:
(we pull the snow away from the lights, then "launch" it into the air over the lights and it goes into the grass...mainly it just looks cool, but serves a good purpose)
Close Up of a snow-blower:
Well, today was an interesting day at work. We had a BIG snow for the Wichita area, which meant our snow crews were out working hard all day and night. By the time the sun came up (FINALLY!) they were still hard at work. I got the privilege to work with them and help clean off part of the East side of the airfield. I can proudly say that the airfield is looking great.
It was a good experience. This morning we had an individual who wanted to get out of one of the taxiways. Unfortunately, there were large drifts-so I went to see who I could find to help out. Luckily, I found one awake soul to help. This individual jumped into the snowplow and we worked through the intersection to assist getting the aircraft out for the flight. After feeling a slight bit of accomplishment, and noticing all other individuals were busy, I got it approved to keep this snowplow to work on the rest of the taxiway. It was great. We worked North and South and I directed (to the best of my inexperienced ability) and he moved the snow. I felt like a conductor with a mini orchestra. After making a few mistakes-but learning quickly, I got to see a snowblower in action! We would pull the snow away from the lights, and the snowblower would come and “eat” the snow and blow it over the lights. It was cool. Yeah, I may be nerdy, but it was sure a good time. We finished up the taxiway and it was time for a break for the overworked and under-rested crew. With some help from the “Snow-Boss”, we were able to get the last part of the taxiway cleared off. I watched as the Snow-Boss finished up directing the clearing of the small mountain that I accidentally created. It was very educational.
I am extremely appreciative of all those involved in snow removal, and could not be happier to work with such a wonderful group of individuals. Cheers to their hard work and patience as I learn to become a “Snow-Man” (well, actually Snow-Woman to be correct). Despite the mild mistakes, I feel like I am getting the hang of this whole snow thing…and getting a chance to “conduct” a plow this morning was quite fun. I bet the “big” airports really have a blast!
Plows move the snow when it gets "thick" (usually anything more than 1/4 to 1/2 inches...they have to plow it then follow the plow with a broom to sweep the surface clean. Think of it like this (This example is compliment of my supervisor) If you took a broom out to your driveway first, it wouldn't do much good. If you took a snow shovel out, then came behind it with a broom, now that's effective)
Snow Blower:
(we pull the snow away from the lights, then "launch" it into the air over the lights and it goes into the grass...mainly it just looks cool, but serves a good purpose)
Close Up of a snow-blower:
Well, today was an interesting day at work. We had a BIG snow for the Wichita area, which meant our snow crews were out working hard all day and night. By the time the sun came up (FINALLY!) they were still hard at work. I got the privilege to work with them and help clean off part of the East side of the airfield. I can proudly say that the airfield is looking great.
It was a good experience. This morning we had an individual who wanted to get out of one of the taxiways. Unfortunately, there were large drifts-so I went to see who I could find to help out. Luckily, I found one awake soul to help. This individual jumped into the snowplow and we worked through the intersection to assist getting the aircraft out for the flight. After feeling a slight bit of accomplishment, and noticing all other individuals were busy, I got it approved to keep this snowplow to work on the rest of the taxiway. It was great. We worked North and South and I directed (to the best of my inexperienced ability) and he moved the snow. I felt like a conductor with a mini orchestra. After making a few mistakes-but learning quickly, I got to see a snowblower in action! We would pull the snow away from the lights, and the snowblower would come and “eat” the snow and blow it over the lights. It was cool. Yeah, I may be nerdy, but it was sure a good time. We finished up the taxiway and it was time for a break for the overworked and under-rested crew. With some help from the “Snow-Boss”, we were able to get the last part of the taxiway cleared off. I watched as the Snow-Boss finished up directing the clearing of the small mountain that I accidentally created. It was very educational.
I am extremely appreciative of all those involved in snow removal, and could not be happier to work with such a wonderful group of individuals. Cheers to their hard work and patience as I learn to become a “Snow-Man” (well, actually Snow-Woman to be correct). Despite the mild mistakes, I feel like I am getting the hang of this whole snow thing…and getting a chance to “conduct” a plow this morning was quite fun. I bet the “big” airports really have a blast!
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
January Update
Well, another month has snuck by! I am not sure how long I will have to type, so I will probably make this a quick post. Theodore is napping, so we shall see how much I get written...since it's almost dinner time for him!
This past month has been so busy! Between a few house projects (picture frames getting hung up), some cleaning, and overall finishing the holiday season, we have been very busy.
I felt very accomplished the other day. Theodore started holding his bottle on his own (the daycare taught him that...!! way to go daycare!!), so I was doing some cleaning and it was time for his bottle....so...I got it warmed up and he fed himself while I finished cleaning the bathrooms, floors, etc. He is getting so big! (yes, I'm sure every mother says that!) He even helped supervise my cleaning and vacuuming. He was not such a fan of the vacuuming...that could be because I had him sitting in his "bumbo" chair (we call it the captain's chair) and the vacuum was coming close to him. He let out a little whine, and so I picked him up, and put him in one of those pouches that you hook to yourself-so you look like you have a baby in a backpack-only ours goes on our front (like a kangaroo kind of). Anywho, after putting him in the kangaroo carrier thing, he was much more content to help mama vacuum! He even helped me clean the kitchen. He watched me as I swept and swiffered the floors. It's amazing how just a LITTLE cleaning makes the biggest difference.
So why all the cleaning? Well, I guess when my "weekend" is consolidated into one day the super-mom in me comes out. I got all the laundry, diapers, etc done and folded (not completely put away, but folded none the less!) so I felt like I should clean a little more, since I never quite seem to get the vacuuming done...! It sure is nice to have a clean floor again! Now, if I could only entertain Theodore long enough to get the organizing done...!
That is a question I have: WHY does organizing take so long?
For me, it's probably because I just "do" most things, then the "things" become cluttery...then I can't stand it, so then I figure out how to make things more efficient for my use...but this trial and error bit is sure a long process. Why can't I just know what will work and how I will use things? I guess that's the fun of the game, right?!
Oh, so January...what did we do?!
We went to Atlanta, Georgia for a delayed holiday with the Laws family. We took Theodore, so that was an adventure. This was his 2nd airplane trip and he did very well. We only spent 3 days recoving this time, so I guess it works out. Theodore didn't sleep as well the 1st and 3rd night we were there, so that made for long days. But we had a good time. We went to one of those Medieval Dinner show things. It was pretty cool and I think Theodore even enjoyed the horses and jousting! We even got to go to IKEA...I wish I had an "IKEA" line item in our budget! (oh...maybe I should make one?!) Theodore liked shopping...probably because there was lots to look at--but he liked it regardless.
Other than that, I've been working lots lately. Today I got to try my hand at driving the snowplow at work. IT WAS SURPRISINGLY FUN! A bit timid, I'm not ready to "solo" yet, but I had a good lesson today: Intro to Snowplowing 101. Basics: How to turn, not run into stuff, and overall-move snow effectively. Pretty good first lesson. I don't know that they will let me drive them often, but it was a fun experience! (not sure I would say that if I'd have been up all night driving them, eh?!)
Well, surprisingly Theodore is still asleep...maybe I should venture over to see if he is ready for dinner.
All the best everyone.
Robin
This past month has been so busy! Between a few house projects (picture frames getting hung up), some cleaning, and overall finishing the holiday season, we have been very busy.
I felt very accomplished the other day. Theodore started holding his bottle on his own (the daycare taught him that...!! way to go daycare!!), so I was doing some cleaning and it was time for his bottle....so...I got it warmed up and he fed himself while I finished cleaning the bathrooms, floors, etc. He is getting so big! (yes, I'm sure every mother says that!) He even helped supervise my cleaning and vacuuming. He was not such a fan of the vacuuming...that could be because I had him sitting in his "bumbo" chair (we call it the captain's chair) and the vacuum was coming close to him. He let out a little whine, and so I picked him up, and put him in one of those pouches that you hook to yourself-so you look like you have a baby in a backpack-only ours goes on our front (like a kangaroo kind of). Anywho, after putting him in the kangaroo carrier thing, he was much more content to help mama vacuum! He even helped me clean the kitchen. He watched me as I swept and swiffered the floors. It's amazing how just a LITTLE cleaning makes the biggest difference.
So why all the cleaning? Well, I guess when my "weekend" is consolidated into one day the super-mom in me comes out. I got all the laundry, diapers, etc done and folded (not completely put away, but folded none the less!) so I felt like I should clean a little more, since I never quite seem to get the vacuuming done...! It sure is nice to have a clean floor again! Now, if I could only entertain Theodore long enough to get the organizing done...!
That is a question I have: WHY does organizing take so long?
For me, it's probably because I just "do" most things, then the "things" become cluttery...then I can't stand it, so then I figure out how to make things more efficient for my use...but this trial and error bit is sure a long process. Why can't I just know what will work and how I will use things? I guess that's the fun of the game, right?!
Oh, so January...what did we do?!
We went to Atlanta, Georgia for a delayed holiday with the Laws family. We took Theodore, so that was an adventure. This was his 2nd airplane trip and he did very well. We only spent 3 days recoving this time, so I guess it works out. Theodore didn't sleep as well the 1st and 3rd night we were there, so that made for long days. But we had a good time. We went to one of those Medieval Dinner show things. It was pretty cool and I think Theodore even enjoyed the horses and jousting! We even got to go to IKEA...I wish I had an "IKEA" line item in our budget! (oh...maybe I should make one?!) Theodore liked shopping...probably because there was lots to look at--but he liked it regardless.
Other than that, I've been working lots lately. Today I got to try my hand at driving the snowplow at work. IT WAS SURPRISINGLY FUN! A bit timid, I'm not ready to "solo" yet, but I had a good lesson today: Intro to Snowplowing 101. Basics: How to turn, not run into stuff, and overall-move snow effectively. Pretty good first lesson. I don't know that they will let me drive them often, but it was a fun experience! (not sure I would say that if I'd have been up all night driving them, eh?!)
Well, surprisingly Theodore is still asleep...maybe I should venture over to see if he is ready for dinner.
All the best everyone.
Robin
Monday, December 27, 2010
December: Home for Christmas
As the end of the month draws near, I feel it is time to again update our much neglected blog : )
This month, moreso than all the rest, has been busy. I started working my 4:30am shift (normally I come in at 5:30am....!) and now get off a whole 30 minutes earlier...yay...but that still means going to bed early...ugh..7pm..yawn....yeah. So, thanks to our wonderful friends and family, I have been able to make it-and be quite rested, despite the crazy schedule. Thank goodness that Theresa lives with us, as she has made life quite a bit easier with Chris in and out of town. She is so good with Theodore that I never have to worry.
With my crazy hours, and anticipating snow, we decided to stay home for Christmas. (if it snows, my whole department-all 4 of us...are "on duty/call" to make sure the runways stay open at the airport, even if it is our "holiday" or "day off") Luckily, we did not really get anything to talk about. Last Thursday (i think-maybe Wednesday...?) we got a little freezing precipitation, so I was thinking....wow...it's going to be a long day....but luckily, we did not get more than that! I was happy, because I was really looking forward to finishing my shift and going home to spend the holiday with family. Chris was off for Christmas !! And my parents, two brothers, and Theresa were all here at our house for Christmas dinner. It was just wonderful to be home and have family to share the holiday with.
Theodore Update:
Well, he is growing so fast (like they all told me he would!). He rolled over a couple times now, but we are not sure he really knows how to do it continuously yet. But it is sure fun to watch him try! He is definitely teething...oh fun fun. We often find him with his hands in his mouth and fussing. We imagine that is "baby talk" for "Mom and Dad! my mouth hurts! I want popsicles!" But, despite the "teething toys" we have, he doesn't seem to like the cold on his mouth much yet. I'm sure he will grow into that too, right? So, instead, he puts anything he can find into his mouth...his hands, your fingers, burp cloths...etc. He hasn't figured out that his mouth is not as big as he thinks it is...but that's ok !
The last few days have been interesting. We think he is starting to transition to fewer naps. (rats! now I really have to find things to keep him busy!) A couple days ago, we fed him at 7pm, put him to bed shortly after 8pm-and he slept all night.....! wow! he eliminated one whole feeding! I guess he is getting bigger and needs the sleep, but wow! So last night, in the experimental stage again-we fed him a little earlier than that, and again, he went to bed about 8pm....and slept until 7am when I woke him up to eat! WOW! I just can't believe it....I think our son can out-sleep Chris! heeheee. So, if we are lucky, he will start going to bed about the same time I do at night : ) and then I can say that I go to bed after my son .... (oh so it will still be like 7pm...!)
Other than that, Chris is off on another adventure. He has had the priviledge of flying literally all over the world. He has yet to make it to Australia, but we are keeping out hopes up that maybe soon he will make it there.
Speaking of Chris...apparently it has been three years (tomorrow) that we have been married! wow! It feels like it was yesterday-and BLINK- three years go by! wow. So, cheers to my wonderful husband-who has made life wonderful and brought so much joy to my life. I know he has many years ahead of him of wonderful memories to make and I'm excited for each one of them.
Speaking of Traveling....
Theodore took his first airplane trip! We flew the airlines up to Chicago and then drove to Champaigne Urbana for my younger brother, Paul's, Graduation! It was a quick weekend trip, but we all had a wonderful time. Theodore even did really well through security, the airport, and even was quiet during graduation! I was so impressed. He had a blast playing with his aunt, uncle, and grandparents. Despite my "worrying" he did fine the whole trip and we all had a great time. We are looking forward to many more family trips.
This month, moreso than all the rest, has been busy. I started working my 4:30am shift (normally I come in at 5:30am....!) and now get off a whole 30 minutes earlier...yay...but that still means going to bed early...ugh..7pm..yawn....yeah. So, thanks to our wonderful friends and family, I have been able to make it-and be quite rested, despite the crazy schedule. Thank goodness that Theresa lives with us, as she has made life quite a bit easier with Chris in and out of town. She is so good with Theodore that I never have to worry.
With my crazy hours, and anticipating snow, we decided to stay home for Christmas. (if it snows, my whole department-all 4 of us...are "on duty/call" to make sure the runways stay open at the airport, even if it is our "holiday" or "day off") Luckily, we did not really get anything to talk about. Last Thursday (i think-maybe Wednesday...?) we got a little freezing precipitation, so I was thinking....wow...it's going to be a long day....but luckily, we did not get more than that! I was happy, because I was really looking forward to finishing my shift and going home to spend the holiday with family. Chris was off for Christmas !! And my parents, two brothers, and Theresa were all here at our house for Christmas dinner. It was just wonderful to be home and have family to share the holiday with.
Theodore Update:
Well, he is growing so fast (like they all told me he would!). He rolled over a couple times now, but we are not sure he really knows how to do it continuously yet. But it is sure fun to watch him try! He is definitely teething...oh fun fun. We often find him with his hands in his mouth and fussing. We imagine that is "baby talk" for "Mom and Dad! my mouth hurts! I want popsicles!" But, despite the "teething toys" we have, he doesn't seem to like the cold on his mouth much yet. I'm sure he will grow into that too, right? So, instead, he puts anything he can find into his mouth...his hands, your fingers, burp cloths...etc. He hasn't figured out that his mouth is not as big as he thinks it is...but that's ok !
The last few days have been interesting. We think he is starting to transition to fewer naps. (rats! now I really have to find things to keep him busy!) A couple days ago, we fed him at 7pm, put him to bed shortly after 8pm-and he slept all night.....! wow! he eliminated one whole feeding! I guess he is getting bigger and needs the sleep, but wow! So last night, in the experimental stage again-we fed him a little earlier than that, and again, he went to bed about 8pm....and slept until 7am when I woke him up to eat! WOW! I just can't believe it....I think our son can out-sleep Chris! heeheee. So, if we are lucky, he will start going to bed about the same time I do at night : ) and then I can say that I go to bed after my son .... (oh so it will still be like 7pm...!)
Other than that, Chris is off on another adventure. He has had the priviledge of flying literally all over the world. He has yet to make it to Australia, but we are keeping out hopes up that maybe soon he will make it there.
Speaking of Chris...apparently it has been three years (tomorrow) that we have been married! wow! It feels like it was yesterday-and BLINK- three years go by! wow. So, cheers to my wonderful husband-who has made life wonderful and brought so much joy to my life. I know he has many years ahead of him of wonderful memories to make and I'm excited for each one of them.
Speaking of Traveling....
Theodore took his first airplane trip! We flew the airlines up to Chicago and then drove to Champaigne Urbana for my younger brother, Paul's, Graduation! It was a quick weekend trip, but we all had a wonderful time. Theodore even did really well through security, the airport, and even was quiet during graduation! I was so impressed. He had a blast playing with his aunt, uncle, and grandparents. Despite my "worrying" he did fine the whole trip and we all had a great time. We are looking forward to many more family trips.
Thursday, November 25, 2010
Finished Quilt, Clean Office,...what next?
So...where HAVE we been for the last month or so (since it seems I have only updated the blog about once a month lately!)
Well, Chris has been somewhere on the other half of the world (I cannot remember all the places off the top of my head, but I can tell you he can no longer count the different countries on two hands! He is still loving the travel, but hating the time away from home-can you blame him?!) We get to talk on skype often, so that helps make things as "normal" as they can be while he is away. Thankfully, he is able to be home for Thanksgiving (and actually was for Halloween too!)
Well, Chris has been somewhere on the other half of the world (I cannot remember all the places off the top of my head, but I can tell you he can no longer count the different countries on two hands! He is still loving the travel, but hating the time away from home-can you blame him?!) We get to talk on skype often, so that helps make things as "normal" as they can be while he is away. Thankfully, he is able to be home for Thanksgiving (and actually was for Halloween too!)
We were "Cow Pokes" (people who tend to cattle...I think that's right...or sometheting like that. We were cowboys and needless to say, Theodore is our little cow!
On Halloween, we enjoyed all the little kids coming by the house. I think I had the most fun, seeing everyone all dressed up! SOOOOO many cute kiddo's. Ah what a fun night.
As many of you may remember, I started a quilt some time ago (oh-shortly after we got married...so about 2.75 years ago...but who is counting? Oh-wait-the person who the quilt is FOR!) So...said quilt-the Crown Royal one- is now COMPLETED! Yes, after many years of procrastonation, a handful of moves, a baby, and lots of other distractions, the quilt is now finished. (YAY!)
As you may know, Robin doesn't ever seem to do things the "easy way," so I took a design I liked and extrapolated it...and of course I had to edit the dimensions, make a few changes, and va-boom: I had a design for a queen-sized quilt. Now, I THINK the request was for a lap quilt...but what fun is that? I mean, really-a Crown Royal quilt to me sounds more like an awesome comforter or something...so I did just that: Queen size quilt it is!
And I quote, " It was well worth the wait." (Clint Augustin)
Thank you, dear friend! Here is a picture of my masterpiece: (yes, it is on-of-a-kind, and no, I'm not taking orders!! heeheee)
Oh, and of course, he came to see Theodore too:
Since completing the quilt, I have been at a bit of a loss for things to do (ok-not really-there are LOTS of things to do-but where to start?)
This past weekend we went to a wedding reception and Carol and Terry came to town to watch Theodore for us (I think they were looking for a good excuse to see their grandson...do you blame them!?). It was our first trip leaving our little one and also our first time away from home together since he was born. And, as sad as we were to leave for a day, we were happy we did. Teddy had a GREAT time with his grandparents, and Chris and I had a wonderful time with friends and enjoyed not having to worry about if our little kiddo. It was a win on all accounts! Theodore was a little tired when we returned, but I know it's because he had such a good time playing with Carol and Terry.
This week, we look forward to Thanksgiving. Jeremy and Ashley will be coming to town to celebrate with us this year. Additionally, since Jeremy and Ashley don't get to see the family that much, Carol and Terry decided to come in for Thanksgiving dinner Thursday! So we will have a full house!!! In an effort to have a place to put everyone, we opted to clean THE OFFICE.
Now...this OFFICE has been on our "to do" list since we moved in. And actually-when I was pregnant, I moved a number of the boxes from Teddy's room to the office-since I was not going to be going through them for awhile. Well, the time came-it was this weekend or never. SO....we decided we could have some of our guests stay in the office-once it was cleaned, and the other guests stay in our guest bed downstairs.
This is the before picture....
AND AFTER:
There IS carpet in here! I wasn't sure there still was!
And one last picture of the family. SMILE! Although it is a little out of focus, I think it's a rather good snapshot:
Sunday, October 17, 2010
October...Already!?
Well apparently it's October. Wow...and Theodore is already eight weeks old....! crazy! What has happened in the past month? Well, here's what I can remember:
Jeremy and Ashely got married on September 17, which is Jeremy's birthday : ) He better not forget their anniversary!! Theresa took a few pictures and here they are:
Carol, Terry, Chris, Theodore, and I went to Missouri to visit Terry's parents after Jeremy's wedding. Theodore did pretty well in the car, and I was pleasantly surprised. Although, despite all the fun he had with his great grandparents, Theodore was ready to be home and get some good sleep in his own bed.
Speaking of beds...Theodore recently outgrew his bassinette. WOW! One day I put him down for a nap and realized that his legs were nearly touching the end. Luckily, Chris was coming home, so we were able to put the crib together a few days after that. Chris even got the mobile up so Theodore has something to look at : ) I haven't gotten a picture of it. It is funny...every time I think about taking a picture it is whe Theodore is sleeping. And of course, he needs his beauty sleep, so I will have to remember one of these days when he is awake.
In Chris' time home, he was not bored. He had plenty to do outside: the back yard-and re-planting grass. He spent a few days working hard to get the ground prepped and ready to plant the seeds. Here is a picture of him using the tiller:
The grass is just starting to sprout nice and green. I can't wait to see his hard work pay off.
Other than that, I have started back at work full time. We are having a love-hate relationship. I love working and the type of work I do, but hate being gone and the long hours. Although, three days in a row off are nice, but it is sad to say that I usually go to bed before Theodore at night....ah the perks of waking up well before the sun. What are you to do? In general, it is nice to be back and working hard. I love picking Theodore up and coming home to play for a little while before going to bed. And I always look forward to Sundays when I can spend all day at home, or getting some errands run in between naps and feeding time.
Oh, and here is one of my favorite pictures from the last month. Chris and Theodore are having a contest...who can go on for longer fussing?
And one last one of a Kansas State game day Picture:
Jeremy and Ashely got married on September 17, which is Jeremy's birthday : ) He better not forget their anniversary!! Theresa took a few pictures and here they are:
Carol, Terry, Chris, Theodore, and I went to Missouri to visit Terry's parents after Jeremy's wedding. Theodore did pretty well in the car, and I was pleasantly surprised. Although, despite all the fun he had with his great grandparents, Theodore was ready to be home and get some good sleep in his own bed.
Speaking of beds...Theodore recently outgrew his bassinette. WOW! One day I put him down for a nap and realized that his legs were nearly touching the end. Luckily, Chris was coming home, so we were able to put the crib together a few days after that. Chris even got the mobile up so Theodore has something to look at : ) I haven't gotten a picture of it. It is funny...every time I think about taking a picture it is whe Theodore is sleeping. And of course, he needs his beauty sleep, so I will have to remember one of these days when he is awake.
In Chris' time home, he was not bored. He had plenty to do outside: the back yard-and re-planting grass. He spent a few days working hard to get the ground prepped and ready to plant the seeds. Here is a picture of him using the tiller:
The grass is just starting to sprout nice and green. I can't wait to see his hard work pay off.
Other than that, I have started back at work full time. We are having a love-hate relationship. I love working and the type of work I do, but hate being gone and the long hours. Although, three days in a row off are nice, but it is sad to say that I usually go to bed before Theodore at night....ah the perks of waking up well before the sun. What are you to do? In general, it is nice to be back and working hard. I love picking Theodore up and coming home to play for a little while before going to bed. And I always look forward to Sundays when I can spend all day at home, or getting some errands run in between naps and feeding time.
Oh, and here is one of my favorite pictures from the last month. Chris and Theodore are having a contest...who can go on for longer fussing?
And one last one of a Kansas State game day Picture:
Monday, September 13, 2010
Social Butterfly...Who Would Have Thought?
Theodore has been quite a social butterfly over the past few weeks! He has gotten to visit Salina and Oklahoma!
We even had a handful of visitors come through to visit us, including my friend, Niki. She has twins who are exactly 1 year older than Theodore....! And her girls were no smaller than 8lbs EACH...needless to say, she had never seen such a small baby...! wow! I'm truly impressed--she holds the RECORD at Salina hospital for largest twins. What a champ.... Here she is with our little one:
Theodore even had some time to visit his GREAT Grandpa Benny. Needless to say, Benny enjoyed the visitor and even held Theodore for awhile. He said that I could leave Theodore there with him. I didn't think it would work out, but it was nice of him to offer to watch Theodore for us. Here is a picture of Wayne and Great Gpa Benny:
Oh, and my favorite milestone recently, Chris got to feed Theodore with a bottle! Needless to say, Chris really enjoyed that. (And I enjoyed the time off...now I get to go to bed early and he takes over the last feeding of the evening...I never knew that an extra hour of sleep would make such a difference! WOW it does...and I'm totally enjoying the 7 straight hours of sleep!!!)
We even had a handful of visitors come through to visit us, including my friend, Niki. She has twins who are exactly 1 year older than Theodore....! And her girls were no smaller than 8lbs EACH...needless to say, she had never seen such a small baby...! wow! I'm truly impressed--she holds the RECORD at Salina hospital for largest twins. What a champ.... Here she is with our little one:
Theodore even had some time to visit his GREAT Grandpa Benny. Needless to say, Benny enjoyed the visitor and even held Theodore for awhile. He said that I could leave Theodore there with him. I didn't think it would work out, but it was nice of him to offer to watch Theodore for us. Here is a picture of Wayne and Great Gpa Benny:
And one of their hands...aww!
Oh, on the road trip to Salina, I stayed with my sister, Karen and her husband Erik. Karen was kind enough to prepare a bed for Theodore (Drawer with pillow and blanket!! Worked PERFECTLY!!) Theodore slept like a Champ!
In the morning, I was going to get ready in the bathroom and I heard Karen go to check on him. Then I heard some russeling...I saw that she moved his drawer out to the living room...and was taking pictures of her nephew. She's not excited or anything....! hehee....But he sure is cute when he is sleeping. (I think Chris sleeps just like that...just not in a drawer! heheheheee)
Oh, and my favorite milestone recently, Chris got to feed Theodore with a bottle! Needless to say, Chris really enjoyed that. (And I enjoyed the time off...now I get to go to bed early and he takes over the last feeding of the evening...I never knew that an extra hour of sleep would make such a difference! WOW it does...and I'm totally enjoying the 7 straight hours of sleep!!!)
Other News:
We have new neighbors! Our friends from Salina just moved in 4 doors down....LOVE IT! So excited! With them moving, we helped unload some boxes into their house. Needless to say, I was thinking...hmm...we have lived here since this spring...maybe it's time to work on our office....
SO: tonight we got through at least 3 boxes (I stopped counting after 2). It was great...and amazing how much more room there is in the office without those boxes....
Now...for the rest of them...!
Friday, September 3, 2010
Busy Busy....and a NEW DISHWASHER!
Well, hello again friends!
Yes, life has been busy. Lucky for us, the Good Lord has his eye on me! Our friends, Kelley and Brandon are going to be moving into a house down the street from us!! YAY! (well, don't get too excited yet--but they will close on it soon) Lucky for me, Kelley has been able to be here all week : ) So, in addition to Aunt Theresa in the evenings, Kelley has been a HUGE help! (thanks!!) Between dinner, errands, and overall keeping me sane, I have had a great week hanging out with Kelley, Theresa, and Brandon.
Theodore had a few doctor appointments this week. He has grown 1.5 inches (already!) and gained 1 lb. I'm thrilled to hear that (as from what "the books" I read say...new moms often worry about little ones eating enough. Besides...it's not like they have a gas gauge...they really should...so when it shows "empty" we know when to feed them!)
Also, for the curious minds...we started using cloth diapers. Yes..cloth...
I'm impressed so far. We will use a combo of cloth and disposable-but so far, cloth has impressed me. I like the super absorbancy and they seem more "leak proof" than some of the disposables I have put on Theodore lately. Yesterday I had him in disposables while I was out and about...needless to day while he was being held by a few of his new friends, he peed on them...oops...! Well, That's how he greets people he really likes, I suppose! Also, He likes to "slime" people (as I like to call it) with spit up. Lucky us...
Other things going on:
NEW DISHWASHER!
Like other things that have broken (air conditioner.....ugh!) Our dishwasher stopped working the other day. Lucky for me, I had extra help in the house, but none of us were a fan of doing the dishes ALL the time. SO...with the Labor Day sales, we were able to go to Lowe's and find one on sale...and have it installed yesterday. The dishwaser is QUIET and BEAUTIFUL and MAGNETIC! From the time we were married, we never had a dishwasher with a magnetic front...they were all rental houses and had plastic-so now I can get the ABC magnets for Theodore to play with on the dishwasher : )
Yes, life has been busy. Lucky for us, the Good Lord has his eye on me! Our friends, Kelley and Brandon are going to be moving into a house down the street from us!! YAY! (well, don't get too excited yet--but they will close on it soon) Lucky for me, Kelley has been able to be here all week : ) So, in addition to Aunt Theresa in the evenings, Kelley has been a HUGE help! (thanks!!) Between dinner, errands, and overall keeping me sane, I have had a great week hanging out with Kelley, Theresa, and Brandon.
Theodore had a few doctor appointments this week. He has grown 1.5 inches (already!) and gained 1 lb. I'm thrilled to hear that (as from what "the books" I read say...new moms often worry about little ones eating enough. Besides...it's not like they have a gas gauge...they really should...so when it shows "empty" we know when to feed them!)
Also, for the curious minds...we started using cloth diapers. Yes..cloth...
I'm impressed so far. We will use a combo of cloth and disposable-but so far, cloth has impressed me. I like the super absorbancy and they seem more "leak proof" than some of the disposables I have put on Theodore lately. Yesterday I had him in disposables while I was out and about...needless to day while he was being held by a few of his new friends, he peed on them...oops...! Well, That's how he greets people he really likes, I suppose! Also, He likes to "slime" people (as I like to call it) with spit up. Lucky us...
Other things going on:
NEW DISHWASHER!
Like other things that have broken (air conditioner.....ugh!) Our dishwasher stopped working the other day. Lucky for me, I had extra help in the house, but none of us were a fan of doing the dishes ALL the time. SO...with the Labor Day sales, we were able to go to Lowe's and find one on sale...and have it installed yesterday. The dishwaser is QUIET and BEAUTIFUL and MAGNETIC! From the time we were married, we never had a dishwasher with a magnetic front...they were all rental houses and had plastic-so now I can get the ABC magnets for Theodore to play with on the dishwasher : )
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
Week 1: Success!
Well, we have survived our first week of being parents...!
Our little boy is doing well, eating and sleeping lots. (well, he's sleeping in spurts, but getting more sleep than Chris and I, so at least one of us is well rested!)
I have to admit, we are extremely blessed. My water broke early in the morning last week and Chris was able to be here for Theodore's birth.(We call him Theodore or Teddy...but some of the family prefers Theo...all are ok with us!!) He has been such a wonderful suppor through this whole process, not to mention our wonderful family and friends who were able to be near us this past week. Thanks to everyone !!
Here are a few quick pictures:
And our going home picture...He is all dressed up and cute:
Got his mittens, hat, and warm clothes on:
Here's one of the Grandparents...
Our little boy is doing well, eating and sleeping lots. (well, he's sleeping in spurts, but getting more sleep than Chris and I, so at least one of us is well rested!)
I have to admit, we are extremely blessed. My water broke early in the morning last week and Chris was able to be here for Theodore's birth.(We call him Theodore or Teddy...but some of the family prefers Theo...all are ok with us!!) He has been such a wonderful suppor through this whole process, not to mention our wonderful family and friends who were able to be near us this past week. Thanks to everyone !!
Here are a few quick pictures:
And our going home picture...He is all dressed up and cute:
Got his mittens, hat, and warm clothes on:
Here's one of the Grandparents...
Sunday, August 8, 2010
Baby Brain, Visitors, and LOTS of Pictures!!
The past few weeks have flown by...why does it seem like I am always saying that?!
I have gotten to enjoy so many things, so as I think of them, I will try to include them here.
(as I am getting more forgetful by the day! Last night I was at Target with Carol...and we saw someone who looked rediculously familiar. He had a little girl in his cart and I was like-That is Maddie...hmm...what's his name....Matt. yes...NO...wait...MMMMMM ...grr it starts with an M....what is it!? He works with Karen and I can't REMEMBER WHAT HIS NAME IS! grr...Needless to say he was kind enough to remind me that it is Mike. AH ! Mike! Shep! Someone please tell me this "baby brain" thing gets better....right? Well....maybe I will recover slowly)
Let's start with some pictures:
This is myself and one of my best friends' (Brittany's) kiddo, Brandon. The last time I saw him I think it was for his 4th birthday. WOW he has grown and reminds me OH so much of her...it's amazing. And look how handsome he is! Well, I suppose I should say this photo is me, my baby, and Brittany's baby!
OK, One with silly faces: (because it is hard to get that goofy kid to sit still and not be silly...I mean come on...he is like 7 now, and very adorable!)
Look Brittany, Aaron and I both have goatee's on our faces! (oh wait, Brandon's is just ice cream...!)
As you can see above, I was able to spend some time with Brittany (best friend from grade school) and Aaron (a friend from high school) little boy, Brandon. It was wonderful to see both Aaron and Brandon again. Maybe sometime I will get to see Brittany again....(I can only hope!)
In my absence of blogging over the past few weeks, I have taken a few photos (remember, there are 40 weeks to be full term...so we are getting close...and in any "normal" pregnancy-baby can be born at 37 weeks...so it could really be any time now!):
36 Weeks
37 Weeks
In addition to a growing belly, has been me missing the Kansas Cosmosphere and Space Center, the Future Astronaut Training Program Camps! So...I got word that there was a "25 year reunion" happening a few weeks ago. REALLY!? Funny...I haven't heard anything...maybe I missed an email...? Well, regardless, I did find out about it in time, but was only able to make it to the Sunday rocket launch. It was not as big of an event as I was expecting...but there were a few familiar faces-and we had a good time. I watched the rockets go and reminisced about the "good ole days" and many memories I had from my camping days. I remembered how the Cos (pronounced Cuh-awww-zzzz) (as we used to call it) was the first time I really realized my love of aviation and space. And, some of my friends from today go back to the Cos and my camper days.
They even gave me an "up front seat" in what I jokingly called the "box office" where the 5 individuals would arm their rocket and then count down and launch it.
This is the launch pad:
The enthusiasts who were able to attend this reunion event:
And 2 of my favorite people: Kate and Tom. I worked with them while I was an employee of the Cos and was EXCITED to see two friends still living the dream and inspiring young astronauts, engineers, and everything in between! (I was once inspired at the Cos...and then went on to Kansas State University Salina to be a pilot...and came back to be a counselor for 2 years...and inspired a few of the young minds myself. Now some of those minds are becoming pilots...and the trend continues. What a fantastic opportunity!)
Last weekend was the rocket launch and in addition to that excitement, we had visitors! Can you name that happy engaged couple?
And look, they brought their "fur baby", Charlie with them. She enjoyed getting out of the car on their stop. Even though she is a basset-something mix, she thinks she is a lap dog. Well, Charlie, my lap is still occupied with baby, so there is no room on my lap for you. Sorry!
And here is a quick pic of all of us:
Robin (and baby), Theresa, Ashley, and Jeremy
We were so excited to see them and be able to have lunch while they were here. They went home to Leoti, KS for the FAMOUS fair with 25 cent rides. I was sad to miss it this year, but I have learned that pregnant people do not do well on long car rides, nor in the heat. So this year I sat it out and am hopeful for next year.
Last item for today's post: Where was Chris in the last photo? Good question. See if you can guess where he has been over the past few weeks:
Clue 1:
Clue 2:
Clue 3:
Clue 4:
Clue 5: I think this last one gives it away...
ANSWER: Vegas and Hawaii!
And we look forward to him coming home late this week. :-) Hopefully baby will be here shortly after his arrival to meet him too...we can only hope! (Chris will be home for a couple weeks after his return, hoping the little one decides to be born in his time home)
I have gotten to enjoy so many things, so as I think of them, I will try to include them here.
(as I am getting more forgetful by the day! Last night I was at Target with Carol...and we saw someone who looked rediculously familiar. He had a little girl in his cart and I was like-That is Maddie...hmm...what's his name....Matt. yes...NO...wait...MMMMMM ...grr it starts with an M....what is it!? He works with Karen and I can't REMEMBER WHAT HIS NAME IS! grr...Needless to say he was kind enough to remind me that it is Mike. AH ! Mike! Shep! Someone please tell me this "baby brain" thing gets better....right? Well....maybe I will recover slowly)
Let's start with some pictures:
This is myself and one of my best friends' (Brittany's) kiddo, Brandon. The last time I saw him I think it was for his 4th birthday. WOW he has grown and reminds me OH so much of her...it's amazing. And look how handsome he is! Well, I suppose I should say this photo is me, my baby, and Brittany's baby!
OK, One with silly faces: (because it is hard to get that goofy kid to sit still and not be silly...I mean come on...he is like 7 now, and very adorable!)
Look Brittany, Aaron and I both have goatee's on our faces! (oh wait, Brandon's is just ice cream...!)
As you can see above, I was able to spend some time with Brittany (best friend from grade school) and Aaron (a friend from high school) little boy, Brandon. It was wonderful to see both Aaron and Brandon again. Maybe sometime I will get to see Brittany again....(I can only hope!)
In my absence of blogging over the past few weeks, I have taken a few photos (remember, there are 40 weeks to be full term...so we are getting close...and in any "normal" pregnancy-baby can be born at 37 weeks...so it could really be any time now!):
36 Weeks
37 Weeks
In addition to a growing belly, has been me missing the Kansas Cosmosphere and Space Center, the Future Astronaut Training Program Camps! So...I got word that there was a "25 year reunion" happening a few weeks ago. REALLY!? Funny...I haven't heard anything...maybe I missed an email...? Well, regardless, I did find out about it in time, but was only able to make it to the Sunday rocket launch. It was not as big of an event as I was expecting...but there were a few familiar faces-and we had a good time. I watched the rockets go and reminisced about the "good ole days" and many memories I had from my camping days. I remembered how the Cos (pronounced Cuh-awww-zzzz) (as we used to call it) was the first time I really realized my love of aviation and space. And, some of my friends from today go back to the Cos and my camper days.
They even gave me an "up front seat" in what I jokingly called the "box office" where the 5 individuals would arm their rocket and then count down and launch it.
This is the launch pad:
The enthusiasts who were able to attend this reunion event:
And 2 of my favorite people: Kate and Tom. I worked with them while I was an employee of the Cos and was EXCITED to see two friends still living the dream and inspiring young astronauts, engineers, and everything in between! (I was once inspired at the Cos...and then went on to Kansas State University Salina to be a pilot...and came back to be a counselor for 2 years...and inspired a few of the young minds myself. Now some of those minds are becoming pilots...and the trend continues. What a fantastic opportunity!)
Last weekend was the rocket launch and in addition to that excitement, we had visitors! Can you name that happy engaged couple?
And look, they brought their "fur baby", Charlie with them. She enjoyed getting out of the car on their stop. Even though she is a basset-something mix, she thinks she is a lap dog. Well, Charlie, my lap is still occupied with baby, so there is no room on my lap for you. Sorry!
And here is a quick pic of all of us:
Robin (and baby), Theresa, Ashley, and Jeremy
We were so excited to see them and be able to have lunch while they were here. They went home to Leoti, KS for the FAMOUS fair with 25 cent rides. I was sad to miss it this year, but I have learned that pregnant people do not do well on long car rides, nor in the heat. So this year I sat it out and am hopeful for next year.
Last item for today's post: Where was Chris in the last photo? Good question. See if you can guess where he has been over the past few weeks:
Clue 1:
Clue 2:
Clue 3:
Clue 4:
Clue 5: I think this last one gives it away...
ANSWER: Vegas and Hawaii!
And we look forward to him coming home late this week. :-) Hopefully baby will be here shortly after his arrival to meet him too...we can only hope! (Chris will be home for a couple weeks after his return, hoping the little one decides to be born in his time home)
Monday, July 19, 2010
Baby Shower with Some Girlfriends!
Yesterday a few of my college girlfriends threw me a small baby shower with a few friends from college. It was so much fun hanging out with the girls again. Being a small group, it was hosted at my house. (which means they made yummy treats and left me some at home to munch on this week! yay!)
An old roommate of mine came up from Texas (YAAAAY!) and was able to stay with us for the entire weekend. It was just fun to have a guest over and catch up. On Saturday night, I FINALLY got to meet my friend's fiance, Dan. (whom we love calling "Dan, Dan the Fireman! so as not to be confused with our other college friend, Dan) We hung out at their house and watched a movie for awhile. Being the good friends they are, they noticed I was getting tired (even though I THOUGHT I was still doing ok), they strongly encouraged me to go home and get some sleep. Sadly (because I knew they were RIGHT) we went home. Needless to say, I fell asleep quickly : ) Thanks for being good friends and taking care of me!!
(ok, so I should give up on the "thinking I'm doing ok" thing, as obviously the further I get along in pregnancy, I believe there is a strong negative correlation between preggo thought process and reality of a situation, therefore concluding Preggo Robin is not good at making decisions about taking care of herself. Yup I just admitted it-go ahead and say "I told you so.")
When Sunday came around, my house was filled with giggles, laughter, good treats, and good friends. I could not have asked for a more fun day. I'm excited to see this next chapter of our life unfold. So far, the forecast looks like many good years are ahead. I can't wait!!
Sunday evening, I was tired from the long day of having fun (amazing how having fun and chatting all day is so exhausting!) I decided to sleep on the comfortable couch in the cool basement. Ah....cold just like the polar bears like it! About 10 pm...the door to the house opened. (uh oh...who is home? Chris and Theresa are both gone-and Theresa's not supposed to be back until Monday night-I think?) So-I lay there on the basement couch-thinking--hmm...it has to be Theresa...right?
I listened attentively for the footsteps which were moving around the upstairs of our house. Baby must have been startled too...as it started kicking. Shhh.....be quiet belly-don't kick! A few minutes later, I saw the familiar feet strolling down the stairs: THERESA!! Needless to say, she was just as confused as I was. Since I was sleeping on the basement couch, she was confused as to why my car was here but there was no Robin-and my bed was empty...and apparently I left the light on in the baby's room...oops. I was confused because I thought she took Monday off...but apparently not-and we laughed at ourselves and chatted for a bit before going to sleep. It was nice to see her.
Tonight: dinner with my parents. (yum!) I'm not sure what is on the menu, but it doesn't matter...all I have to do is show up to eat. I'm starting to work up an appetite now...
An old roommate of mine came up from Texas (YAAAAY!) and was able to stay with us for the entire weekend. It was just fun to have a guest over and catch up. On Saturday night, I FINALLY got to meet my friend's fiance, Dan. (whom we love calling "Dan, Dan the Fireman! so as not to be confused with our other college friend, Dan) We hung out at their house and watched a movie for awhile. Being the good friends they are, they noticed I was getting tired (even though I THOUGHT I was still doing ok), they strongly encouraged me to go home and get some sleep. Sadly (because I knew they were RIGHT) we went home. Needless to say, I fell asleep quickly : ) Thanks for being good friends and taking care of me!!
(ok, so I should give up on the "thinking I'm doing ok" thing, as obviously the further I get along in pregnancy, I believe there is a strong negative correlation between preggo thought process and reality of a situation, therefore concluding Preggo Robin is not good at making decisions about taking care of herself. Yup I just admitted it-go ahead and say "I told you so.")
When Sunday came around, my house was filled with giggles, laughter, good treats, and good friends. I could not have asked for a more fun day. I'm excited to see this next chapter of our life unfold. So far, the forecast looks like many good years are ahead. I can't wait!!
Sunday evening, I was tired from the long day of having fun (amazing how having fun and chatting all day is so exhausting!) I decided to sleep on the comfortable couch in the cool basement. Ah....cold just like the polar bears like it! About 10 pm...the door to the house opened. (uh oh...who is home? Chris and Theresa are both gone-and Theresa's not supposed to be back until Monday night-I think?) So-I lay there on the basement couch-thinking--hmm...it has to be Theresa...right?
I listened attentively for the footsteps which were moving around the upstairs of our house. Baby must have been startled too...as it started kicking. Shhh.....be quiet belly-don't kick! A few minutes later, I saw the familiar feet strolling down the stairs: THERESA!! Needless to say, she was just as confused as I was. Since I was sleeping on the basement couch, she was confused as to why my car was here but there was no Robin-and my bed was empty...and apparently I left the light on in the baby's room...oops. I was confused because I thought she took Monday off...but apparently not-and we laughed at ourselves and chatted for a bit before going to sleep. It was nice to see her.
Tonight: dinner with my parents. (yum!) I'm not sure what is on the menu, but it doesn't matter...all I have to do is show up to eat. I'm starting to work up an appetite now...
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
House Projects
Oh no....those two words.... HOUSE PROJECT
(I'm starting to sound like Karen!!)
After I returned from Chicago (and had the house all to myself for nearly a week, I had the opportunity to work on some things that I had on MY list to get done. (Everyone tells me that I'm "nesting" and preparing for baby....but I like to think I have been so busy that there has hardly been any time to get anything done with our busy schedules and work...maybe I AM nesting....!)
Uh oh...Power Tools!
WHY did Chris sound SO concerned when I was lookig for the drill? All I wanted to do was replace a towel rack holder "thingy" in the bathroom...I was going to let him do it when he got home, but it just looked too simple...So I thought I'd do it and check that item off my list. Hesitantly, he told me where the drill was...and then, realizing he didn't tell me where the drill bits were....I assured him I would not hurt myself or break anything : ) PROMISE!!! He did tell me where they were (and I'm pretty sure at this point, he closed his eyes and said a prayer, but who knows for sure!?) Well, the result was good. We now have a hand towel holder with two hooks (and installed very nicely if I do say so myslef). Note the one on the left with the blue towel on it:
(I'm starting to sound like Karen!!)
After I returned from Chicago (and had the house all to myself for nearly a week, I had the opportunity to work on some things that I had on MY list to get done. (Everyone tells me that I'm "nesting" and preparing for baby....but I like to think I have been so busy that there has hardly been any time to get anything done with our busy schedules and work...maybe I AM nesting....!)
Uh oh...Power Tools!
WHY did Chris sound SO concerned when I was lookig for the drill? All I wanted to do was replace a towel rack holder "thingy" in the bathroom...I was going to let him do it when he got home, but it just looked too simple...So I thought I'd do it and check that item off my list. Hesitantly, he told me where the drill was...and then, realizing he didn't tell me where the drill bits were....I assured him I would not hurt myself or break anything : ) PROMISE!!! He did tell me where they were (and I'm pretty sure at this point, he closed his eyes and said a prayer, but who knows for sure!?) Well, the result was good. We now have a hand towel holder with two hooks (and installed very nicely if I do say so myslef). Note the one on the left with the blue towel on it:
And, I decided to FINALLY hang up my cork board for my necklaces. (there are necklaces on it now, but I was just excited to finally have it up on the wall, I snapped a quick pic):
Well, you cannot tell it from the picture, but our bathroom countertop IS now clean...which I don't think I have seen since we moved in! It is SO nice to have one little corner of your house clean and be able to get ready without looking all over for things. I even took the time to go get some baskets. (Chris doesn't like them as much as I do, but I find them quite handy) I organized my drawer (and his drawer...although I don't think his drawer will stay organized...he didn't seem to like it as much as I did--but it is HIS drawer...so as long as I don't have to get into it, I suppose he can do whatever he wants in his drawer : )
After our bathroom--the bedroom! Clothes, junk, stuff...and Ta-Da! look at that brown dresser...I haven't seen the top of that since...well-I can't remember when! I got rid of some tubs and boxes that were at the end of our bed and it really makes a big difference. Makes me feel like the room got five feet bigger...oh wait...I think it did!
After that...on to the hall closet. I have towels with nowhere to put them...and washcloths-well, they don't really have a home either. (since we decided to put in a new A/C unit when the old one broke, we opted NOT to put in the desired 3rd bathroom in our basement until a later date. So our upstairs "main" bathroom is Theresa's bathroom. So, I try to leave her room for all her things she needs)
So, in an effort to do as Better Homes and Gardens does-I set out to organize: THE CLOSET. I got some wire shelf/racks (of course way more than I needed--as I wasn't sure exactly what sizes or shapes would work best for our closet-so I have to take a few back...) But the end result is quite nice.
Top Shelf:
Lower Shelf:
And after all that, I decided...one last "little" project...Baby's Room : )
Well...It had LOTS of boxes. So-still feeling motivated-I "scooted" the big boxes to the office or living room, depending on what was in them and their final destination. I finally found most of my sewing boxes, so those were set to go downstairs. (NOTE: pictures of the pre-boxed room is not shown...as to not divulge how many boxes were really moved....!)
Well, you cannot tell it from the picture, but our bathroom countertop IS now clean...which I don't think I have seen since we moved in! It is SO nice to have one little corner of your house clean and be able to get ready without looking all over for things. I even took the time to go get some baskets. (Chris doesn't like them as much as I do, but I find them quite handy) I organized my drawer (and his drawer...although I don't think his drawer will stay organized...he didn't seem to like it as much as I did--but it is HIS drawer...so as long as I don't have to get into it, I suppose he can do whatever he wants in his drawer : )After our bathroom--the bedroom! Clothes, junk, stuff...and Ta-Da! look at that brown dresser...I haven't seen the top of that since...well-I can't remember when! I got rid of some tubs and boxes that were at the end of our bed and it really makes a big difference. Makes me feel like the room got five feet bigger...oh wait...I think it did!
After that...on to the hall closet. I have towels with nowhere to put them...and washcloths-well, they don't really have a home either. (since we decided to put in a new A/C unit when the old one broke, we opted NOT to put in the desired 3rd bathroom in our basement until a later date. So our upstairs "main" bathroom is Theresa's bathroom. So, I try to leave her room for all her things she needs)
So, in an effort to do as Better Homes and Gardens does-I set out to organize: THE CLOSET. I got some wire shelf/racks (of course way more than I needed--as I wasn't sure exactly what sizes or shapes would work best for our closet-so I have to take a few back...) But the end result is quite nice.
Top Shelf:
Lower Shelf:
And after all that, I decided...one last "little" project...Baby's Room : )
Well...It had LOTS of boxes. So-still feeling motivated-I "scooted" the big boxes to the office or living room, depending on what was in them and their final destination. I finally found most of my sewing boxes, so those were set to go downstairs. (NOTE: pictures of the pre-boxed room is not shown...as to not divulge how many boxes were really moved....!)
AHA! Clean room!
And after cleaning, organizing, moving/scooting, etc...this little birdy was TIRED. (finally) And...after admitting that I had over-exherted myself...I took the next week to recover. (and one trip to my lovely Chiropractor who KNEW I had been doing something I shouldn't have...was nice enough not to make me feel any more guilty for over-exherting myself than I already felt. Although, it did come out a few days later at a get together...and she gave me the "you know you shouldn't be doing that" look...in addition to a good laugh, as she knows she is just as stubborn as myself when she sets her mind to doing something)
And then Chris and Theresa came home and I got in trouble for moving things...but they both said the house looked nice. Although, I have agreed that I will not be doing "anything" else...except for vacuuming...on ONLY one level of the house (and I won't haul the vacuum up and down the stairs). And I can vacuum as long as I don't do any other work. They run a hard bargain, eh?! Well, trust me-I have learned my lesson. I have been recovering for the last week, so I am not feeling like doing any more housework or organizing or cleaning.
Now Theresa can paint clouds on the walls, as she has mentioned interest in doing. This past weekend, she had time and was able to do just that. I have to admit, they turned out really good:
(the best part is, everyone seems to see different animals!! Gotta love the big, puffy clouds) So now I guess we can say we have "painted the baby's room."
And after cleaning, organizing, moving/scooting, etc...this little birdy was TIRED. (finally) And...after admitting that I had over-exherted myself...I took the next week to recover. (and one trip to my lovely Chiropractor who KNEW I had been doing something I shouldn't have...was nice enough not to make me feel any more guilty for over-exherting myself than I already felt. Although, it did come out a few days later at a get together...and she gave me the "you know you shouldn't be doing that" look...in addition to a good laugh, as she knows she is just as stubborn as myself when she sets her mind to doing something)
And then Chris and Theresa came home and I got in trouble for moving things...but they both said the house looked nice. Although, I have agreed that I will not be doing "anything" else...except for vacuuming...on ONLY one level of the house (and I won't haul the vacuum up and down the stairs). And I can vacuum as long as I don't do any other work. They run a hard bargain, eh?! Well, trust me-I have learned my lesson. I have been recovering for the last week, so I am not feeling like doing any more housework or organizing or cleaning.
Now Theresa can paint clouds on the walls, as she has mentioned interest in doing. This past weekend, she had time and was able to do just that. I have to admit, they turned out really good:
(the best part is, everyone seems to see different animals!! Gotta love the big, puffy clouds) So now I guess we can say we have "painted the baby's room."
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