Our New Home

We love our new home and can't wait to spend the holidays in it!

We're back!

We're back in WI and I'm back to blogging. Things have finally settled down from our move. Brent has started work and is loving it! We are so grateful to live close to family again.

Chocolate Milk

Just plain silly!

Springtime is here!

This is one of John's favorite activities. He's fascinated by moving cars and will wave to people going by. It's very cute.

Don't ask me why I bought this shirt!

I guess I thought it was kind of cute. Don't get any ideas grandmas out there!!

The "Hair Dilema":

When do I first cut my son's hair? I've grown quite attached to his locks, despite the mullet affect. I just can't bring myself to cutting it.

Student Dr. John Parker

Sometimes I wonder what John will be when he grows up. Whatever he does, we will be so proud of him. I just couldn't resist putting Brent's scrub shirt on him. Doesn't it look hilarious?!

It's time for "time outs"

When we say "no John", he'll often smile and do it anyway. That's why we knew it was time to implement some discipline. This is the time out area we've created. It's the only safe place besides his crib. We didn't want to use his crib, in fear that then he would relate it to punishment. We have seen some progress. He's starting to resist temptation and obey instead.

Potty Training, Here We Come!

John just got this Elmo training seat. He really likes it. Do you notice he's reading a book a Sesame Street book (he chose it, this wasn't staged)?

Our bathroom is finally complete!

**see earlier post for the "before" picture.

Our Valentine's day:

Brent has been studying every constantly for his board exams next week. However, he took a break from his studies to give me a special Valentine's rose, gift and dinner. He is such a sweetheart!

Our little ball player...

Finally, this is what our new car looks like...

Spaghetti is not a finger food!

Snow day!!

Brent's school called a snow day today. It's been fun having him home. This is our second big snow storm this week! Below is a picture of him helping our neighbor shovel out her car.

A precarious situation...

Our bathroom has such terrible water and mold damage that our apartment complex is putting a new tub in and replacing the floor. The nice thing is that they're getting rid of the ugly and impractical tile, and putting in a tub insert instead. The mold does concern us, so we're keeping John out of the bathroom and keeping the door closed. This project is long overdue. The maintenance man put plastic and duct tape on it so we can use it in the meantime.

Burgers and Fries Revisited:

I'm not a vegetarian, but sometimes I enjoy vegetarian meals. These are delicious portabella mushroom burgers. They are served with fresh green beans and pomegranate seeds. To make these delicious burgers, you need to have lots of butter! Along with sliced portabella mushrooms, saute red onions, thyme and baby spring greens. In a separate pan, grill the bun after coating with butter. Assemble the mushroom mix, bun and a slice of provolone. You won't be disappointed!

Q: "How's John doing?"

A: John is working on his 7th tooth. He's been very crabby lately as a result. He also has learned how to whistle, clap his hands, point his fingers and wave good bye. He's still using the bottle, but we hope to wean him in the next couple of weeks. I just completed his one year scrapbook on Shutterfly. I should receive it in the mail in a week. It feels great to have it completed.

We got a new car this week. Wanna see it?

Too bad. It's covered with snow. It's a 2000 Mazda Millenia S. We sold our other car and purchased this in preparation for our move to WI.

17" of snow!

This was John's first time playing in the snow. He didn't like it very much. He didn't have boots, so instead I put plastic bags under Brent's knee high socks. His feet stayed very toasty! He'd better get used to playing in the snow, since we're moving to WI!

4 years goes by quick!

Our anniversary plans changed when we realized our car battery was dead. So instead of going into the city, we ate at the mall while our car got fixed. It was still a wonderful anniversary.

Just returned from the pediatrician...

John was 30.5 in and 23.75 lbs today at his 12 mo. well check visit. The Dr. says he is very healthy. He had 3 shots today and did very well.

His latest discoveries are clapping his hands and covering his ears to keep noise out. He is walking all over now. The other day he even stood up on his own!

Santa and Mrs. Clause

Oh wait, that doesn't work since they're cousins. Cute though, huh?

Brent's new look

Christmas Vacation

We had a wonderful time in WI visiting family. Thanks to all of our family members for graciously hosting us and sacrificing your time to be with us. We can't wait to move closer to all of you!