Baby Buckaroo

Back to Work...

2010-12-25T23:14:00.000-08:00

On December 1st, I started working part time at Reynolds High School. Yes, Sean and I work at the same place, and yes we do see each other "hard at work" sometimes. However, my job is completely opposite of Sean's :). I'm in the Community Preschool. The high school offers a child development class where high schoolers develop and teach lessons to children who are enrolled in the preschool. I never thought in a million years I would work at the high school level. I absolutely love it and the other teachers I work with!

So, with Sean and I both working, Taylor had to start going to "school" too. It was SO difficult for me to leave him! Taylor only had a few tears but now he LOVES it.

Here's a few pictures of the "Christmas party".

He goes to one of Sean's player's mother's... whom I might add watches 3 other BOYS!? Poor Lady.

The Horn

2010-12-25T16:25:00.000-08:00

I turned around one way and found this little guy tooting away.....on Grandma's antique tea pot.

Playing a song before we go to Daddy's football banquet.

Halloween 2010

2010-12-25T16:10:00.000-08:00

The Bog

2010-11-17T16:20:00.000-08:00

My sister and I laughed when we heard our parents were going to buy a cranberry bog. The bog they purchased hadn't been harvested for many years. It was over grown and needed a ton of work. This year they were able to harvest their first crop to Ocean Spray.

My father is now in LOVE with it and my mother...well, she has entirely too many recipes that involve cranberries.

Working hard at the bog.

He likes Grandpa to pick up the sticks.

2010 season comes to an end...

2010-11-17T15:59:00.000-08:00

The Seniors.

The high school football season has come to end at our house. Reynolds went 1-10 for the season. Nearly every game that they lost was by just a few points. Those poor boys played their hearts out. The last game brought tears to everyones eyes. The next few years look very promising according to Coach:).

He absolutely idols the players.

The end of game speech.

"We will never give up"

Bad News and Fantastic News

2010-11-04T15:02:00.000-07:00

The bad news is that Sean's team has only won one game this season. The kids have been doing a fantastic job. However, during the last 30 seconds of every game the other team does something miraculous. I just don't get it!? They have a play-in game tomorrow against Forest Grove. This game will determine if the season continues or not.

Ok, on to the fantastic news! Taylor has been using the potty! He is growing up so quickly I just can't believe it. I won't be taking him out of the house wearing underpants just yet. But, we are well on our way! Woo Hoo!

He went for his 2 year check-up (or in our case his 2 year and 3 months) and he weighs 28.8 lbs (43rd percentile) and is 3 feet and 1 inch tall (85th percentile)! The Doctor was slightly concerned about Taylor's speech. He suggested we take Taylor to get his hearing checked. I was never concerned about his speech before so this came as a complete surprise. Unfortunately, we can't get into the audiologist until Dec. 13th. We will now be encouraging Taylor to pronounce dump truck correctly instead of "d@mn f*ck". Wish us luck. :)

Pumpkin Patch

2010-11-04T14:33:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago Sean got the day off so we headed to a pumpkin patch. This was Taylor's first trip a pumpkin patch and it took him a while to actually enjoy it. It was about 30 minutes outside of Portland and there was so much to do! A corn maze, tractor rides, a petting zoo, and a fantastic produce market with fresh apple cider!

Not happy about getting woke up.

He kept saying, "Eeww, Yuck!"

It was so muddy our boots stuck as we walked.

Dada made it better by carrying me.

"I want that one way over there!"

Riding the Cow Train

So muddy!

He was using the flowers as a microphone singing, Life is a Highway.

It's a song off the Cars movie.

Eating our fresh picked corn for dinner.

The Months of August and September

2010-11-01T14:20:00.000-07:00

We absolutely love cleaning ears!

In August, Taylor got to meet his new cousin Ashlynne and visit with his Auntie Michele from Mississippi.

You can take the boy out of Laredo but you can't take Laredo out of the boy.

Daddy was cleaning out the storage room and found some goodies for Taylor.

Hut Hut!

Taylor's 2nd Birthday, July 14th

2010-11-01T13:44:00.000-07:00

Although we didn't have a party, I must dedicate an entire post to Taylor's Birthday. Sean and I took Taylor to Oaks Park. He truly enjoys anything with a steering wheel or wheels. Later in the evening we took Grandma Wanda and Grandpa Geno out for pizza. Then we came home to have a cake and open gifts.

The Month of July

2010-11-01T13:30:00.000-07:00

Taylor's first ride on a carousel.

Not so sure about it.

Ok I've done this before.

Taylor getting a bath in his Sand and Water Table.

4th of July. What on earth are they showing him?!

Taylor's boo boo :(

He fell on his face while running to watch summer football.

Reading books with cousin Emmy.

We are so happy to be close to family!

An Oldie but a Goodie

2010-10-25T22:05:00.000-07:00

Oh yeah! I am so excited that I can finally post videos. Remember this post? He's got a thing for his shadows. Make sure your volume is on that's the best part.

Taylor was 6 months old in this video.

Our Last Days in Laredo (May/June 2010)

2010-10-25T15:21:00.000-07:00

I still haven't found my camera cord so I went to Costco to have a CD made. There were 345 photos! I had forgotten about many of the activities we had done since May! Don't worry, I wont bore you with all 345.

United's spring scrimmage at the SAC. For the first time, Sean was in the stands with us. Just a few days earlier he was declared the Reynolds Head Football Coach in Oregon! Woo Hoo!

This little guy wont sit down for anything! Trying to steal the show.

March of Dimes in May with Baby Eddie.

Safety first! These two loved cars!

One last wedding celebration before we leave.

They do crazy things in Laredo. The kids loved it!

The Bride and Groom. Sean coached with him at United.

Last family photo with our first home.

Moving is so much work! Especially when it's 100+ outside.

Sean and Jean getting ready to hit the road.

Long Overdue!

2010-09-03T11:57:00.000-07:00

I must apologize for MIA...I have been working entirely too much this summer. Now that things have started to slow down I wont be working nearly as much. We all have been very busy this summer.

Most importantly, we SOLD the house! We ended up closing on August 1st. The new owners were eager to move in and it saved us a mortgage payment. We are still searching for the perfect home in our not so perfect price range. Sean is in no rush but, I was hoping to be in our own home by Christmas. We shall see. The market is continuing to drop.

Sean has his first football game tonight in Newberg! He has been working with the kids all summer and hopefully it will all pay off. Unfortunately, I have to work tonight! So, I will miss the game...but, Grandma and Grandpa offered to bring Taylor. Taylor has become quite the "foo bowl" player; as he calls it. He gets in a three point stance, locks out (something the players do when the coach blows the whistle), and runs around like crazy when anyone says the word, "hut hut". Grandma and Grandpa will definitely have their hands full this evening.

Sorry, there hasn't been any photos lately. I have no clue where I packed the camera usb cord so I have no way of transferring photos to the computer. It's in storage somewhere just not sure where...like many other things. Oh the joys of living out of boxes...

House Update

2010-07-21T13:38:00.000-07:00

The house sale is moving right along. They did the inspection last week and the appraisal yesterday. I'm thinking no news is good news? We are expecting to close on August 10th.

Sean and I have been looking at houses here. Boy, it's a full time job! We are going out with an agent this afternoon. We have been out two other times but nothing has caught our eye. It's been difficult because of all the short sales in the area. They say it can take up to six months but then, there is a large possibility the sale won't go through. We are just trying to be patient. :)

Troutdale Parade

2010-07-21T13:19:00.000-07:00

Taylor went to his first parade on Saturday. I can't believe it took us two years to get him to a parade! Poor kid. Taylor knew exactly what to do when they threw the candy though! He loved hearing all the motors on the cars and tractors! We all had a good time and ate tons of sweets.

Jenica and Addie, Rachel and Luke, Momma and Taylor

Great news!

2010-07-02T10:48:00.000-07:00

Things have really started to come together for us. I was getting a little discouraged about the housing market but we finally got an offer. I know that an offer doesn't mean sold, but in a market like this, we are just happy that people are still want to buy. I'll keep everyone posted as we find out more.
I have been incredibly busy this past week because I got a job! No it's not a teaching job :( but... it's my next favorite occupation....a summer server at McMenamins. I have always had a love for waiting tables and of course the tips. McMenamins is nothing compared to Pig and Pancake, but I love the diversity. They grow their own herbs for the food and brew their own beer. The hours work out too, Taylor gets to have lots of Daddy time. I'll be honest, I'm a little jealous. Taylor used to cling to my leg and scream when I would leave. Now, Taylor simply says, "Bye, Bye Momma." and then continues to do whatever he's doing. My job as a stay at home mom is no longer. Although, I'm so grateful that I got to spend his first two years at home.

Good Bye Texas!

2010-06-08T15:04:00.000-07:00

It has been forever since my last post but I have a good excuse this time! We are officially residents of Oregon. It's music to my ears! Things are far from perfect but we love it here. Taylor is having a blast with family! My mother has already come to visit twice! The weather hasn't been too cold either. Sean had been incredibly busy, working 12 hour days. His hard work is paying off because 106 kids signed up for camp! That is double from last year! He says there's a lot of talent at Reynolds, even though they were 1-19 in the past two years. They have a scrimmage this Saturday, so we shall see.

Moving went as well as moving can go. We only ended up with a few scratches and dings on our items. Sean and his dad drove the moving truck 3,500 miles in three days! Then, unpacked everything into our storage unit! By the time Taylor and I flew in everything was done! We are settling in nicely at Sean's parents. Grandma Wanda, Grandpa Jean and Great Grandma Me Me love having Taylor around (well, I think...lol).

As with our house in Texas, we haven't had any offers. Hopefully something happens in the next couple months. It's a great time to buy here in Oregon, but we couldn't imagine having two house payments. We are just going to be patient things will fall in to place.

Going Away Party

2010-05-17T11:37:00.000-07:00

We have made some of the greatest friends here in Laredo. This past weekend the neighborhood had a get together for Sean and I. It was our favorite, a crawfish and shrimp boil with all the fixins'! Of course it was excellent, my mouth was on fire the entire night. One great thing about Laredo is everyone here can cook... and I mean cook! I haven't had a bad dish yet. And as a going away gift, everyone put their favorite recipes in a cookbook for Sean and I! I will cherish those recipes forever! Thank you everyone who took part in this celebration! Sean and I are so lucky to have such great neighbors! I took ZERO pictures the entire night. What was I thinking?! I pulled these pictures off of a friend's Facebook page to share.

Checking out our new cookbook.

Our last Toddler Tuesday :(

2010-05-06T11:06:00.000-07:00

It has been fun going to the library this past year. We have meet some great friends and we will miss them dearly. This past Tuesday was our last time. They had a graduation for all the kids. Each child was recognized and given a certificate. My baby isn't such a baby anymore. He walked up and received the award on his own. So proud! I always said I wasn't going to be one of those mothers who boast about their children but look.... how can I not?

Group photo. lol...I just noticed the security guard had to step in.

(Grandma and Grandpa..I've been meaning to tell you, lol is an acronym for laugh out loud.)

Baby Eddie and Taylor.

"The Ranch"

2010-05-04T17:03:00.000-07:00

Some friends invited us to a ranch for a spanish celebration called Dia de los ninos or Day of the Kids. We all had so much fun! They spoiled the kids.

This is the "so called ranch."

It was beautiful!

Playing in the sandbox with Josecito's parents.

Loved the tractor!

Now on to the big one! Where's the key?

Gabby took ALL the kids for a few rides! She was fantastic!

Two peas in a pod!

Our little fish!

2010-05-04T13:12:00.000-07:00

It has been getting hot! We set up the pool in the backyard for Taylor. He runs around the yard with his trucks and takes a dip to cool off.

Daddy put the slide in the water! Fun! Fun!

My cars can go fast too!

Austin, Texas

2010-04-29T10:47:00.000-07:00

May 28 is the tentative date for moving. My sister and Emmy are coming down May 26th to help pack and then us girls and Taylor are headed to San Antonio for a few days.

We had open house this weekend so we thought it might be a good time to visit neighboring cities around Texas before we left for good. We left the house on Friday and drove to San Antonio. There was a Fiesta going on, so downtown was packed. We went to the carnival thinking Taylor would be able to ride some rides but unfortunately he was too short. Later we found a kiddie park on the way to the hotel and spent some time there. Taylor absolutely loved it!

The next morning we headed to Austin. I LOVE Austin! It reminds me of Eugene. It's real "organic" and they love their Longhorns! We spent the entire day at Barton Springs Park. There was so much to do. We rode a train, became environmentally aware of pollution in our rivers and streams, and Taylor played on the biggest play structure I have ever seen. Later that evening we went back to the hotel and played in the pool. Taylor can hold his breath under water!

We headed home on Sunday, but after visiting the capital building, University of Texas, and eating some Texas BBQ. The restaurant was called Salt Lick. Sounds weird I know but, if you know me, you know how much I love sauces. Their BBQ sauce was wonderful. My mouth is watering as I write this.

We got our food to go so Taylor could run around at the kiddie park in San Antonio again. Taylor got an unlimited ride band. We got our money's worth...until.....it happened! Taylor got kicked of the ride for misbehaving! He was riding his favorite ride, of course the cars. He began dragging his hand on the ground as the cars were going around. It was a very dangerous act that was not tolerated in the park. The operator, other parents, Sean, and I were asking Taylor to pick his hands up but he refused, with a big grin. They stopped the ride and Taylor had to get off. After that event we thought it might be best to just go home.

Taylor's first ride. Mommy was scared so Daddy had to ride too.

Horse and carriage. So well behaved.

THE RIDE.

He looks at this picture and says, "Coo coo." I don't think he has a clue about safety.

Official University of Texas helmet worn by #6 in 2008.

Misc.

2010-04-26T11:49:00.000-07:00

I never know what to do with the random pictures I take between blogs. So here's what we've been up to...

Our last United High School football banquet on April 21st.

Chocolate cupcakes for Daddy. He turned 30 on April 22.

Eating a cupcake that momma brought home from another baby shower. So many babies are being born!

Now we need two binks? He's never gonna give them up.

He is getting really good at stacking. I had to give him guidance but he built this.

Sonia's Baby Shower

2010-04-26T11:27:00.000-07:00

A couple weeks ago we had a baby shower for our neighbor Sonia. She is due June 4th but she's thinking he might come sooner. She is going with the jungle theme.

Taylor has a crush. He gets all giddy around her. :)

Long night...

2010-04-14T12:15:00.000-07:00

Sean has been in Oregon this past week interviewing coaches. Taylor and I were left home alone. It was nice not having to cook dinner but we missed Daddy. On Friday night, Taylor was up from 2 - 4 am! He would shrug his shoulders and ask, "Where Da Da?" I would repeatedly tell him, "Daddy's at work, he'll be home soon." Then Taylor would begin to tear up. I felt terrible. At 2:45 am, I brought him into our bed and he asked about Da Da again! Just as I began to refresh his memory, Taylor looked at the wall and started screaming. I couldn't figure it out. Every time Taylor would move around, he'd begin screaming. After what feels like forever, I finally realized what was happening.

You see, I feel it's necessary to keep a night light on in our room when Sean's gone. It gives me a sense of security I guess. Well, the night light casts a shadow of Taylor on the wall, so every time Taylor would move, it would show his outline. I tried doing shadow puppets on the wall but that made it worse. Then my hair shadow didn't help when I got up to put him in his own bed. He finally fell asleep at 4 am. Poor guy, he's scared of his own shadow!

Here's a few pictures from last week.

I buy entirely too many bags of Cheetos.

We've started packing. And no, we haven't sold the house. We've been showing it about 2 or 3 times a week but not one offer. :(

We hadn't seen Josecito in forever. Look at his cowboy boots!

oh and... yes, Taylor did get a haircut right before Easter and he hated it!

Hoppy Easter!

2010-04-09T10:50:00.000-07:00

We spent our Easter here in Laredo. The weather was actually bearable. We had a picnic on Saturday with friends in the neighborhood. Then on Sunday after church, we had a crawdad and shrimp boil with a smaller group of friends. Taylor had four egg hunts this year!

The first thing he picked up was a car. Surprise surprise.

Big boy riding a bike! We had a hard time getting him away from it.

This is how the Louisiana folks eat. I'm sure gonna miss them!

Hamming it up.

Little stinker!

Mod Podge

2010-04-01T19:16:00.000-07:00

I've packed most of my craft materials but a friend of mine told me about Mod Podge. She had made some adorable picture frames. I had never heard of it so of course I had to give it a try. This is Taylor's Easter basket for this year. It's a little time consuming but incredibly easy.

Easter Bunny

2010-04-01T11:24:00.001-07:00

There was an Easter party and egg hunt at Toddler Tuesday this week.

The teachers.

They do such a great job with all the kids. They love to sing and dance with them.

Looking for eggs.

He kept calling them balls.

Eating snack with Reagan. Cheetos again.

Petting the bunny.

A little nervous... but hey this isn't so bad.

Ok ma! I got my treat let's get outta here!

Spring Break Part I

2010-03-23T21:18:00.000-07:00

During Sean's spring break we decided it would be a good idea to stay close to home and not spend much money on vacation since we will be moving in a few months. We decided to take an overnight trip to San Antonio. It worked out just fine, I didn't have to cook and Sean got to spend quality time with Taylor and I. We went to one of the museums next to the zoo. We decided to go to this particular one because they had a new dinosaur exhibit. Word on the street says the museum broke records on attendance this week. Just because of the dinosaurs! The dinosaurs moved and growled! I thought I was living in the Mesozoic era. Taylor wasn't scared either. There were all sorts of great activities for the children too.

The following picture is a must have since we will be leaving Texas soon. Last year people were stopping on the side of the road to take pictures laying in these flowers. We later realized it's a tradition some people do around here. The state flower is a blue bonnet and they grow wild during spring time along the highway. So of course when we saw purple flowers along the road, we had to do it too. However, after stopping, my green thumb told me they were something other than Blue Bonnets.

Spring Break Part II

2010-03-22T16:17:00.000-07:00

We went to the San Antonio Zoo and it was a zoo...no pun intended. Everyone in Texas must have had the same idea. Finally we got parked, paid our admission, and entered. Our first stop was to get food because I didn't want to stop while Taylor was being a good boy in the car. While standing in line, I asked Sean what he wanted and I thought he said nothing So I proceeded to stand in the entirely too long of line. After I got Taylor a hotdog and me a pop Sean asked, "Where are my Nachos?" OMG....So Sean, Taylor and I shared a $6 hotdog and pop. The rest of the day went rather well. The zoo was fun and we were all beat after a long day!

Jumping lily pads.

Trying to get a better view.

Being a big boy.

Father Son Bonding

2010-03-22T15:47:00.000-07:00

The local hockey team here is called the Laredo Bucks. Sean loves to go to the games when he has a chance. Sean took Taylor a while back so I could get my homework done.

Concentrating on the game.

Geography Lesson

2010-03-22T15:37:00.000-07:00

The Rio Grande is within walking distance from our home. It's not as grande as the maps make it out to be.

Oregon Trip

2010-03-22T15:11:00.000-07:00

Tub time with Cousin Emmy.

Daddy getting ready to go to "the interview" that brought us back to Oregon!

Looking at Taylor's baby pics.

Yay!!!

2010-03-05T22:05:00.000-08:00

I'll try to make this short and sweet....Sean got the job! He is the new Head football coach for Reynolds High School in Troutdale, Oregon. We are so excited to move closer to family. Sean's family is right down the street and my family is 2 hours away. We are feeling pretty blessed right now. The whole neighborhood was praying for us. After no phone calls for a week, I thought for sure he didn't get it. Wow! Is all I can say is the power of prayer is amazing. We have a lot of things to do before July, we are just taking it one step at a time. We just put our house up for sale this week and we're looking online at houses in Oregon. Seriously, I can't believe this is happening.

Still Waiting...

2010-02-24T12:53:00.000-08:00

As I sit here at my parent's computer doing homwork the only think I can think about is Sean's future. We all made a trip from Texas for Sean to have an interview at Reynolds High School, just outside of Portland. We flew in on Wednesday and Sean flew back on Monday since he couldn't take too much time off. meanwhile, Taylor and I are spending some time at the coast with my family. The weather has been pretty nice and Taylor is loving the escavator, 4 wheelers, and bobcat. He gets his motor running as soon as he spots a machine. He has yet to make it down to the cranberry bog but I can only imagine the noices he will make. We will be here until March 3rd. It was a spare of the moment trip but everything has worked out well. Hopefully this will be one of the last trips we take from Texas. We are still waiting on the call. They said sometime today. I will keep everyone posted!

Pictures by Sonia Perdomo

2010-02-16T06:13:00.000-08:00

Sonia came over yesterday to snap some photos of Taylor. She captured the true little boy. She is so talented. Check out her blog! Thanks again Sonia!

Sonia's dog. He calls her Mar Mar.

One of my favorites!

Another favorite!

Daddy's boots.

Baby Shower

2010-02-13T15:39:00.000-08:00

This past Thursday we had a baby shower brunch for a good friend down the street. We had a fun time getting together and the Mommy-to-be received lots of great gifts. As we started talking we realized there were only three ladies at the shower who were NOT pregnant! Oh my! I have got to get out of this town before God blesses me with another child.

The mommy to be.

It was rainy outside so 13 kids were forced to play inside.

They actually played good together.

It was a tough day of sharing for this little boy.

Play Time

2010-02-13T15:08:00.000-08:00

Here's a few pictures from the past month and a half.

Watching Saturday morning cartoons.

Taylor and Gavin.

I seriously think he might want to be in the band. At the football games I can't get him away from the tubas!

Hiding from mommy.

18 Month Dr. Visit

2010-02-13T14:57:00.000-08:00

Yeah, I realize I am a month late on posting. But everything was great! Except he hates the Dr. He screamed the entire time and the Dr. didn't even do anything. He weighed 24 lbs. and was 34 inches long. He's in the 50th percentile for both.

Taylor will be 19 months tomorrow!

Baby's New Haircut

2010-02-13T14:52:00.000-08:00

Alamo Bowl

2010-02-13T13:59:00.000-08:00

We had the opportunity to go to the Alamo Bowl with all the coaches at Sean's school. It was a once in a lifetime chance to attend an actual "Bowl Game". It was nearly sold out since Texas Tech was playing. Unfortunately, we had to leave after the 3rd quarter. It was almost midnight and Taylor was out for the count by the time we got to the car. Texas Tech won against Michigan State.

The Masked Rider.

I can spot a horse a mile away! She gave Taylor her autograph.

Natural Bridge Caverns

2010-02-12T08:58:00.000-08:00

A while back we went to the Natural Bridge Caverns north of San Antonio. We were 1/2 mile underground! Sean was totally amazed. As for me, it was neat but the humidity did nothing for my hair. We were advised not to take the stroller but I thought it will be fine. After all, I had Sean to do all the work! They said once you go down you can't come back up until the tour is over. It was a long and strenuous 90 minutes of up and down staircases. We got our workout in to say the least. The temperature is always 70 degrees with 100% humidity no matter the outside climate. It was very interesting to see the wonders of mother nature.

Making a souvenir penny!

Pictures don't do justice.

The Natural Bridge.

A Lesson Learned...

2010-01-26T18:22:00.000-08:00

The past two weeks have been a complete blur. I started my Master's at Texas A&M in Curriculum and Instruction. I am up to my elbows in homework. But I have to do it.

Last weeek I experienced something that I hope no one has to experience. I went to the college on the first day of classes to drop off a few forms. It was extremely busy and I was toting Taylor with me. After finding a parking spot in the North Forty, I got Taylor out of the carseat and let him roam around in the car while I got the stroller out of the trunk. When I went to open the door, he had locked it! Are you kidding!? Everything was inside! i.e the keys, cell phone, and my son! OMG!

I kept tapping on the window, repeatedly telling him, "Push the button baby." He sat as big as you please in the driver's seat emptying my wallet, pushing all the buttons on my cell phone, playing with my sunglasses, and of course grinning from ear to ear. He thought, "This is the life!"

I was causing quite a scene at this time. A young girl came over to help and offered her cell phone so I could call Sean. No answer! Then another young gentleman comes over and I hear him calling the fire department! I asked him, "What is the fire dept. going to do?" He said, "M'am there's a child locked in the car. They will break a window if they have to!" I thought for sure I was going to jail! I prayed.

While the crowd grew larger, we all kept tapping on the window, pleading with a 1 year old. Suddenly, God answered my prayer, Taylor pushed the button to unlock the doors! He had no idea what he had done. I scooped him up and the crowd gave him a round of applause.

If you learn anything from me let this be the lesson. Never leave a child alone in the car! Even if your right there! Luckly it wasn't a typical 107 degrees out. The circumstances could have been much worse!

Christmas 2009

2010-01-12T13:11:00.000-08:00

Sitting inside Momma's new weeding bucket.

Taylor's potty from Auntie Michele.

Christmas morning.

Taylor didn't wake up until 9:30! That's the latest he's slept in EVER!

December...

2010-01-04T11:16:00.000-08:00

Finally I have time to sit down and post some of our pictures. The month of December always seems so busy. Cookie exchanges, Christmas Parties, and of course BUNCO! It was at my house this month so I spend most of my December decorating, cleaning and cooking. As always, Bunco was a blast. However, I never knew how much work it is to feed 12 hungry ladies!...And 1/2 of them were pregnant! Sean took Taylor to dinner at McDonalds then to a Band concert at the High School. They came home and they both looked exhausted! Then next day Haley and Gavin came over for leftovers. The boys threw blocks, put rocks in their mouths, and gave each other rides. They are just too stinkin cute!

Toddler Tuesday Christmas Party

2009-12-15T10:59:00.000-08:00

I knew it might be a difficult year for Taylor and Santa. So I've been doing everything I can to make him like Santa. We read books and I make sure to point Santa out wherever we are. I even let him play with my glass ornament. Finally he started saying, "Ho Ho Ho!"and even gives him love! I thought for sure Santa was going to be our friend.

Today was the day we went to see Santa...

He was dancing to the beat and watchend an entire puppet show with a girl whom I don't know.

Then came Santa.....

Bath Time, Splash Time!

2009-12-15T10:54:00.000-08:00

We had Jose, Linda, and Josecito over for dinner on Saturday night. Linda and I had the great idea of letting the kids take a bath together. I think it was more fun for Linda and I. They were too cute!

November Oregon Trip

2009-12-14T20:44:00.000-08:00

It's a little late but, I still don't have a camera so my mother sent me a CD from hers. While we were in Oregon we got to meet the new addition...four sheep. When my parents picked us up they had the horse trailer in tow and they were headed to pick "the girls" up from visiting a ram. My sister and I are still baffled as to why our mother needed four! Now there will be eight!? But none the less, Taylor was fasciated by them. He would go out with Grandma to feed in the mornings. Emmy loved showing him around on the farm too! She showed him the rabbit, chickens, and then collected the eggs. I can't wait for him to learn how to clean stalls.

I'm getting sick of reading The Wheels on the Bus!

My lil Buckaroo!

Grandma brought us all Starbucks!

Wearin Momma's Boots!

2009-12-14T20:40:00.000-08:00

He was trying so hard to put them on....so I agreed to help!

Our Little Monkey!

2009-12-06T10:19:00.000-08:00

He loves his nanas. All fruit has suddenly become a nana. At the grocery store he ate two bananas, goldfish, Ritz, a Nutri Grain Bar, and then proceeded to tell me me needed another nana! As I explained to Sean, that it's the only thing I could do to keep him content in the cart! Then, the next morning we had a BIG surprise in his diaper! I'll never do that again!

Here's the monkey enjoying the rest of his nanas.

And his PB &J...

Safety First! He can't reach the petals yet but he can sure steer! A few weekends ago while we were outside hanging the lights he discovered how to push himself down the sloped drive way.

Thanksgiving

2009-12-04T09:49:00.000-08:00

The month of November was gone in the blink of an eye. Taylor and I went to Oregon for the first couple weeks. Then it seemed like Thanksgiving was already upon us. I'm sad to report that Sean's team never made it to the playoffs. Thy lost to Alexander (thier rival). Sean was bummed...but I'm happy to have him home now! He tells me every year that they hope to be playing Thanksgiving weekend so don't make any plans. He knows I don't work well without planning! So we decided to stay in Laredo for Thanksgiving. We went over to my friend, Haley's house for a huge afternoon dinner. She has a little boy, Gavin, who's Taylor's age. We all had a good time and ate LOTS of food. I didn't take many pictures though. I'm not sure why, perhaps I was eating the whole time? There were lots of other children there so Taylor didn't do much eating. He was more excited about playing with the other children. Thanks again Haley for having us!

Taylor's plate? (Dad likes to document everything.)

He'd make grandma proud! He got on the horse all by himself!

Up to no good.

He liked the Turkey best!

Happy Halloween!

2009-11-01T09:10:00.001-08:00

Our morning started off seeing dad at his work and then to the Mattel Toy Store far a costume contest. The contest was directed entirely in Spanish! Taylor and I looked dumb founded as we followed along. He had a good time eating a bag of salty popcorn while I found a deal on a trike!

In the evening Sean and I couldn't decided what to do. By the time we all got ready it was nearly 6:30. We ended up Trick or Treating around the neighborhood with our friends. The night ended at a party thrown by a couple down the street. We had a great time.

We were practicing at our house!

Our first house was Sonia and Raul's, our next door neighbor. I was trying to show Taylor how to knock, say trick or treat, and hold out his bucket. By the end of the night needless to say, he was knocking, but then trying to go inside the house to see their dog!

He looks a little nervous.

Sonia wrote on Facebook:

"Had fun watching all of our friends kids dressed up with their cute costumes... my favorite Taylor Blake the cute bear!"

As the night went on we became quite a group. Taylor walked almost the whole time! When he's around older children he tends to be a little more "grown-up".

He would stop in the middle of the street and empty all his candy out of his pumpkin, sort it , and put a few back in then leave the rest. Sean though his candy bucket was getting too heavy!

What a Day!

2009-10-27T10:27:00.000-07:00

This week at Toddler Tuesday they had their Halloween party. We had two jam packed hours of food, books, songs, and a large room filled with lil' ghosts and goblins. Dad even took the morning off to go with. Taylor ran after the other children the entire time. He even scared a little bee. Towards the end, we were all ready for a nap!

He had no idea what was in store for him.

Taylor's Teacher Cinderella

Reagan and Lily. Our neighbors.

He was sleeping before we got out of the parking lot.

15 months!

2009-10-22T19:03:00.000-07:00

If only I put as much effort into this as I do Facebook!

We have had visitors here this past week. Sean's Aunt and Uncle came to visit and Taylor was astatic. Uncle Stevie taught him how to say, "TOUCHDOWN" Now he runs around the house with his football in tow yelling, "Momma Touchdown!" I love it! He's so proud of himself. I love the age he's at right now. He loves to please you! If it only lasted through the teenage years!

We haven't been up to much lately. I booked a plane ticket to Oregon Nov. 3-17. I'm excited to see family, friends, and fall weather! I am praying that the plane ride will be smooth. Football is going well for Sean. They lost their 1st district game against a San Antonio team. They have another big game tomorrow night. They are 3rd in the league so they have a spot in the playoffs as of right now. Let's hope it stays that way.

Here's some frightening news: I found a rattle snake in the garage yesterday! It was terrible. I heard it "rattle" when I opened the garage door. Taylor and I were headed out to go for our morning walk and I looked over by the garage door and found it stuck on a sticky trap that we laid to catch scorpions! I ran down the street where contractors were building and asked one of the men if he would kill it for me. He grabbed his buddy, a bucket and a stick and headed down the street. They scooped him right in to the bucket and took him away. I kept telling to the guys, "Kill it! Kill it!" He told me he will but he didn't want to do it in front of Taylor and I. What a gentlemen...right?...I just hope he didn't bring him home for dinner!

On the lighter note Taylor had his 15 month checkup yesterday! I'm happy to report that there will be no shots needed until his 2nd Birthday. If you remember right he had 6 on his 1st Birthday. I guess that took care of the entire year. When it comes to stats he is 22.5 lbs. and 31 inches. He's finally catching up! He's in the 50th percentile for both!

Here's some photo's of the past few weeks:

Taylor's 1st PB and Cousin Emmy's homemade Strawberry Jam!

I went in to spy on him during an afternoon nap and he was cuddling with Pooh!

Driving the Car at Baby Eddie's 1st Birthday/Going Away party! Baby Eddie and family moved to New Mexico for Border Patrol.

Finally giving Mommy love! He always shakes his head no and smiles:(

Gotta Love Those HOT Summer Mornings

2009-10-08T19:22:00.000-07:00

When I water the flowers Taylor usually sits in front of the sliding glass door and watches patiently while eating his breakfast. Well...when the door opened last week, he ran out the chute like a barrel racer. He was determined. When the water would spray him he'd shrug his shoulders, wrinkle his nose, and laugh hysterically. Then top it off with a little dance. He had no fear of the sprinklers which I might add shot out with force. Pictures don't do justice but here's the rodeo.

Look! He's got his momma's moves.

Look at that face. I just love my lil bugger!

More Photos from Grandma's Visit

2009-10-03T10:21:00.001-07:00

Bedtime routine.

Looking inside the car again!

Maybe this is why he loves steering wheels.

Who needs water?

Dinner time! He's a good eater!

Playing with mom under the door.

Meeting Dad for lunch.

Babysitting.

He needed his momma that night! :)

A Visit From Grandma Wanda

2009-10-03T09:37:00.000-07:00

Grandma came to spend some time with Taylor. He loved having all the attention on him. However, he's not big on giving kisses and Grandma kept insisting. He had a blast. It also gave me the opportunity to get some stuff done and take a much needed trip to go shopping San Antonio. The weather was rainy the first few days and then it started to clear up so we could spend some time outdoors. Grandma bought Taylor a new play structure and it has been keeping him busy. He's still learning how to climb up one side and slide down the other. He hollers for me when he's ready to go down the slide.

Loves looking inside the dump truck at the steering wheel.

I would tell him, "go sit on your melon" and he'd run to the kitchen and plop right on the watermelon. It was too cute. Untill he started rolling it around the house.

Loves the staircase. He gets all giddy after bath time. He runs around the house "airing out"

Helping with film at school. They had a game last night so they're 3-2. But undefeated in league.

We couldn't get him off this lawnmower at Lowe's. He put up a fight. I can't wait for him to go to Great Grandma and Grandpa's barn to see all the tractors. My mother just bought a new John Deere so, she'll have to take him for a ride.

Yay for Nice Weather!

2009-09-08T10:06:00.000-07:00

The month has started off quite well. It has been bearable temps (high 90's) which means we have been spending more time outdoors.

In the afternoons I have been working outside weeding, spraying, and trimming back plants. I must "toot my own horn" because our yard is looking fantastic (well compared to what it looked like when we bought the house). We have had a few down pours this week and it has made a difference. Finally our grass is coming along. Now it is actually green and free of Grub Worms. The plants are flowering like crazy, the Palms are growing new shoots and I'm filling the humming bird feeder twice a week. It sounds like Paradise but don't worry, we're still in Laredo:)

This Palm started off with only three small shoots.

My Mother's Day gifts.

Big Boy 13 1/2 months old!

He likes rocks better then flowers:)

We went to the JV game on Thursday and it was Taylor's first one since he has been able to walk. Let's just say...I should have wore my sneakers and sweat band. He was up and down the bleachers with his arms in the air yelling Da Da. People were laughing at him and that even got him going louder and faster. By the end of the season I just know I'll be 10 lbs. lighter. I'm looking forward to the Varsity games. Right now they are 1-1 in pre-season and "looking pretty good" Sean says. I have yet to go to a game since they have all been 2-3 hours away.

This weekend one of my "Bunco" friends had a garage sale. The night before the sale I spent countless hours going through Taylor's outgrown clothes and toys by organizing and pricing them. I knew I wouldn't be able to communicate with the customers in English. So I made sure to write the numbers very clear. Well the prices didn't matter because the customers would pick up an item and then ask me, "How much?" so, I would say half the price of the ticket. With that being said: I made a measly $23 However, I got a $4 coffee on the way there and a $1 sweet tea on the way home. Needless to say, No more garage sales for me!

Now back to Taylor: 13 months

SO SCARY!

I went to get the camera for a "cute baby" photo of Taylor.

This is what I got when i walked in the room!

This is our typical day...EVERY DAY...I can't get him to stop jumping on the couch!

"ooh" after me reminding him time and time again "that's dangerous"

He plopped right down and started bouncing! It was too cute even though it's blurry.

Oh by the way, he pulled my digital camera off the counter. It's definitely broke:( Now I'm having to use the snapshot button on the video camera. The photo's are supposed to be better but I have to figure out the blurriness.

Pictures

2009-08-29T10:21:00.001-07:00

Our neighbor, Sonia, took these pictures at a recent birthday party we attended. She did a fantastic job.

Our Child's an Animal!

2009-08-29T09:19:00.000-07:00

Let me say we have had quite the week. Taylor has been walking more and little did I know that means more bumps, bruises, and chipped teeth.

On Sunday, Sean was taking care of Taylor while I went to the grocery store. I had 4 missed calls from Sean when I walked out to the car. Frantically I called him back and he said that Taylor had fallen face first on to the tile floor. That fall resulted into only a large bruised cheek and an upset father.

On Tuesday, Josecito was over playing and Taylor decided to show off. He was on his stomach rolling around on top of a ball. Taylor's body rolled right off and he hit his mouth on the tile. He was crying but I comforted him and then got him started on another activity. He was fine. Well...later that evening when I was feeding him dinner he opened wide and to my surprise that fall resulted in a chipped front tooth! Doctor Molly (my sister) said if he isn't in pain then to not worry about it. Thanks Mol easier said then done. I am going to worry about it until he looses it at age 8 or 9! Ugh!

On Friday, Taylor was taking his new shoes for a spin. He was walking laps around the coffee table, through the kitchen and attempting to go up stairs. I was cheering him on until he started going faster and laughing at the same time and he ran right in to the coffee table. This resulted in another bruised cheek.

He decided to crawl and rest on the couch for the remainder of the afternoon.

On the lighter note, Taylor has been having a fantastic time playing with other children. We have been going to the mall and McDonald's with other mother's who have children Taylor's age. None of them actually play "together" but they all have a great time.

A Good Lesson on Sharing

2009-08-17T19:30:00.000-07:00

I'm in total shock! Taylor knows how to share! I was taking care of Reagan the other day who is 3 and she brought Fruit Loops for a snack. Without my supervision, Taylor managed to grab the snack bag off of the table and begin snacking. I had no idea he was doing this until Reagan said, "Miss Nicole, Taylor has my Fruit Loops." I walked into the kitchen and to my surprise was two piles of Fruit Loops: one for Taylor and one for Reagan.

Vacation to Gulf Coast and Doctor Visit

2009-08-10T10:48:00.000-07:00

Taylor's first trip to the beach was very memorable. He stood up in the sand and walked a few steps! We were amazed, he wasn't even able stand by himself earlier that week. I had the video camera going and... I missed it! Can you believe it! I got the waves instead!

The ship was huge! There was even a landing strip!

Corpus Christi Bridge

USS Lexington

When we got back from vacation, we went to the Doctor for his yearly check up. He weighs 21lbs and is 21 inches long! He also had to get his shots! No one ever told me they give him 6! Two in each leg and one in each arm! Poor thing! We were both "all bend out of shape" for the rest of the afternoon! The next day he bounced right back though! I'm still a little upset about it. Do they really need to do them all in one day?!On the lighter note, Taylor will soon be facing forward and moving to a new big boy seat in the car!

4th of July!

2009-08-10T10:32:00.000-07:00

We had a BBQ at our house and Sean organized a group to go to the Laredo Broncos Baseball game and watch the fireworks. The game didn't get over until close to 11pm. Let's just say it was a late night but Taylor was a trooper.

My mommy loves giving me kisses!

This was taken right before Dad took me to see the big Bronco!

I was so scared I nearly jumped off his shoulders. No Bronco for me!

Kaylee is my new friend who baby sits me. She loves pushing me in the stroller.

The good ol' neighbors! We had a blast.

Mom has got to get it together

2009-08-10T10:27:00.001-07:00

Ok so once a month is not going to cut it. I have no excuses for not "blogging" it's been such an exciting month and half. Where do I begin. Our little boy is now a year old and has begun to take a few steps. He has very little interest in walking because he can crawl much quicker to get from here to there. He had a cowboy themed birthday and invited all the neighborhood children for the big round-up. Grandma Robin, Molly, and Cousin Emmy flew in for the ol' hullaballoo. We even had a few ducklings show up. We had a slip and slide, sprinkler, and of course the pool. There's more photos to come. We need to down load them from a different computer. Here's just a taste...

Back in Texas

2009-06-22T20:41:00.000-07:00

Wow it's been over a month since I last updated. We have been in Oregon visiting family. We had a fabulous time and the weather was fantastic. We took lots of photos of course. Taylor had a great time seeing family but got his first cold. My sister and I loaded him up and headed to Urgent care because he looked so terrible. After four days of medicine Taylor was back to his old self.

Boy was it bad...

Taylor standing in front of the Jeep at Emmy's Baby Shower.

Luckly there's no battery:)

All of us girls at Emmy's baby shower. Natty sure loves Taylor.

A bath with cousin Emmy at Great Grandma and Grandpa's.

Giving Soppy a drink.

Great Grandpa Jack had to get him his first Hickory shirt.

He says, "Taylor could be a damn good logger with that scream of his."

The Oregon Zoo.

Man, I really want a horse.

Playing in Grandma and Grandpa's Back yard.

2009-05-01T13:01:00.001-07:00

Happy May Day! Taylor is all over the place! He's drinking daily out of his "big boy cup." At his 9 month check up he weighed 19 lb. 7 oz. and was 28 inches tall. That puts him in the 46th percentile. I thought he was bigger than that but oh well. He's healthy and loves his Doctor (So do I...He's a babe!). We are up to 7 servings of baby food and we have cut back to only 3 nursing sessions a day...Whooo Hooo!

We just found out that Dad's school is cancelled for the next two weeks because of the Swine Flu yuck...he better not bring it home to us.

2009-04-24T12:14:00.000-07:00

We went to Houston for the Fair and Rodeo. We had so much fun. We got to see the Polled Hereford Show, Brooks and Dunn, and of course the rodeo. The weather was perfect but the pool was still a little cold.

Pictures

2009-04-24T12:08:00.000-07:00

March Of Dimes

2009-04-24T11:15:00.000-07:00

We did the March of Dimes last weekend with my Friend Erika. This is Taylor's friend Baby Eddy. He is only 6 months and weighs almost 10 pounds more than Taylor.

Blogging?

2009-04-18T11:28:00.000-07:00

Wow I'm getting old...blogging? I don't even know how to spell it. A girl in our neighborhood started a page with her daughter who is a month older than Taylor. She said we was pretty easy so I thought I would give it a try. However don't expect much form me. I'm just learning.