Making a Case

A Busy Month for Case

2010-09-27T22:42:00.006-05:00

Case has had a BUSY month! He's been...

Taking care of his new brother.

Playing in the sprinkler with Papaw.

Playing in the sandbox.

Playing in the pool with Uncle Beeper.

Driving the tractor with Poppy.

Reading with Grandma Josie.

Making and sampling a birthday cake for Dad.

Blowing bubbles.

Climbing on his clubhouse.

Holding his brother. He's feeling Trent's hair not knocking him in the head.

Napping.

Reading and cooking. They read If You Give a Mouse a Cookie and then made "mouse cookies."

Eating "mouse cookies."

Playing in the rain.

To see what Trent has been up to click on Trent.

Pictures

2010-08-29T23:20:00.001-05:00

1 Week Old

2010-08-28T23:07:00.001-05:00

1 week old

6 lb 4 oz

19 inches

Breakfast Pals

2010-08-24T09:23:00.002-05:00

Proud Big Brother in Action

2010-08-22T05:21:00.002-05:00

So proud of BOTH of our boys!

Case becomes a Big Brother!

2010-08-20T16:10:00.003-05:00

Case is now officially a big brother. Thanks to everyone who has helped us out over the last few months getting ready. Please welcome Trent Daniel Freeman into the world.

Whoa!

2010-07-06T21:36:00.003-05:00

Wow Wow Wow

2010-06-29T22:23:00.002-05:00

When it's quiet...

2010-06-29T22:10:00.002-05:00

you should be worried. This is how Case emerged from behind a chair.

Then he said, "Uh oh," like he didn't know how it happened. Funny thing is he was laughing right before he appeared. Sometimes you can't help but laugh with him. Not sure how he keeps finding these markers! And despite being washable, it does not come off easily!

2010-06-15T20:45:00.002-05:00

Case finally figured out how much fun his slide is. It was a lot easier once I cut the 3 foot tall grass in our back yard. Houston in the summer means cutting the grass once a week or it gets out of hand. On the plus side my wife believes we have the nicest back yard on the street. Nice to know all the hard work we put into it is worth it.

Case is going to have a little BROTHER.

2010-04-30T22:04:00.002-05:00

2010-04-17T07:57:00.002-05:00

Dear Case,
You are such a funny and observant little boy. You have had us laughing this week!

Earlier this week he said, "Moma, here." and handedme some toilet paper. He has gradually been saying "mom, moma, mmmommommom" more this week. Yesterday I heard a ton and it made me smile every time. We got a new monitor for his room and this one can stay on all the time. I called his name last night and I could hear him answer on the monitor, "Mom." Too funny.

His other favorite sayings this week are "uh oh," "oh no," "Coal," and "like that." Everything he sees in a book or on tv is followed by him finding something in the house and saying, "like that." He's a sharp little cookie. I was reading Noah's Ark to him the other day and we were pointing out of the animals. I showed him a giraffe and he looked up and pointed to 4 other giraffes his room.

We are amazed at what all he understands. I told him "Let's open the door so the cat can get some water." He went in the bathroom, got the water, and then poured it on Coal. Luckily most of it sloshed out before he got to Coal.

Yesterday he started spitting out the back door. I asked Keith if he taught him that. He said he didn't so I was wondering where he picked up this newest thing. We found out later that it was me. Keith and I were standing in the bathroom talking and Case went to the toilet, grabbed both sides, leaned over and started spitting just like he were puking. It's been about a month since I was puking in the toilet with this new baby, but I guess it was memorable to him.

He still loves Wubbzy. I think he'd watch him around the clock if we'd let him. I don't know what is so funny about that yellow creature but he gets Case laughing, dancing and wound up. Sometimes he'll be running aound my bed yelling, "go, go, go" to Wubbzy and his friends. At appropriate times I might add- when they are racing, in a fire truck, etc.

He's a riot. Speaking of, he just woke up. Guess it's time to go!

Moms

2010-04-08T14:00:00.006-05:00

If you think I am a "stay at home mom" because I am lazy you are wrong. If you think it's because I don't want to work you are wrong again. If you think being a "stay at home mom" means I can do whatever I want whenever I want you are VERY wrong. If you think all I do is play on the computer and watch soap operas all day you are also wrong. If you think it's easy I'm willing to bet you've never done it.

I'm not saying that I'm not grateful for the opportunity to be home with Case. I am very thankful that Keith works hard so I can be here with him. I'm not saying that moms who work outside the home aren't working just as hard. I know that they are. They get up, get ready for work, get their child ready for a sitter or daycare, work all day, come home tired, have to tend to dinner and laundry, and try to spend a little time with their kid before they all crash in bed. I am just saying, don't ever assume that being a mom of any type is fun and easy, and don't assume that because I stay at home I've got it made in the shade.

If you think I am lazy and don't want to work, here's a glimpse of our day. I got up and went to the bathroom by myself for once because Case was still asleep. I went and made myself a cup of coffee while I picked up toys in the kitchen and living room. I loaded the dishwasher, threw away trash, wiped down the counters, went upstairs to get Case because he woke up and was crying. I changed his pee soaked clothes and pull-up because an unnamed person gave him an adult sized fruit punch from Long John Silvers at 7PM last night. Fixed him some milk, a banana and some yogurt mixed with a probiotic. I opened the windows, went upstairs to get Lightning and his potty, put stuff in the garage, piled dirty laundry up by the stairs to take up on my next trip. I chased Steiny and closed the back gate that was open for unknown reasons. I cleaned Case up from breakfast and opened his markers. I got out the ground beef to thaw f,or dinner, washed dishes in the sink, stopped to clean marker off the floor and cabinet.

Went upstairs to get dirty dishes to wash while the sink had hot water in it, put a movie in for Case, took more stuff to the pile to go upstairs. I moved the dining room chairs and swept the kitchen and dining room even though I swept and mopped on Tuesday, swept again on Wednesday and it's now Thursday.

I talked to myself, cleaned the junk off the table, got out more paper towels, stopped to give Case a mini-lesson on open/close, please/thank you and not screaming when you don't get what you want. I made sugar water for Case's hummingbird feeder,stopped to console Case when he pinched his fingers in the fence, took markers away from Case, cleaned marker off fence and chair, stopped to talk to Case about shapes and remove him from standing in plastic chair on the tile, went through last week's mail (still haven't gotten this weeks), went through the coupons, more discussion about open and close. Had to go remove Case from plastic chair again, cleaned stuff off what I thought was the last counter, wiped it down, poured the sugar water in the hummingbird feeder finally, stopped to look at the Garden Center ad with Case, gave him goldfish because he was hanging on me wheile I tried to put away the dishes I washed, started the dishwasher, cleaned up the junk by the fish tank, killed a spider, emptied the fish tank, took it to the garage, picked up the shoes Case brought in while I took out the fish tank. Then I stopped everything because Case fell and busted his lip on the tile while chasing Steiny, cleaned up blood and wet clothes, fixed him some milk, stopped to hold him and talk about the stuff on the frig, went to bathroom with my shadow, cleaned the counter where the fish tank was, punished Case for screaming about not getting his way, warmed up his lunch. Then I had to stop and punish him for throwing his toys on the floor because his food wasn't ready fast enough, put his food on the plate to cool, fixed him some more milk, put him in his chair, find crayon all over the floor.Finally sit down with my lunch (not sure when I warmed it up)to watch the news. Only sat long enough to get my food down because he was throwing beans on the floor and climbing out of his chair. Clean him up and then talk to him about the crayon all over the floor. had to spank him (pop his butt) for kicking the dog, sit in the floor with Magic Eraser and scrub up the crayon, pop him again for throwing his Tag reader at the door, make him go pick it up, disinfect the sink after pouring fish water in it, took Tag reader away because he threw it again, washed more dishes, turned off the fuzzy stereo he turned on and scared him self to death, became hysterical and tried to climb me. Then Steiny went barreling out the dog door. Went to see what was going on. The back gate was open again, trash everywhere and Steiny is up the street going after a moma pit pull who was unattended. Managed to get him back home while Case was screaming in the backyard, left the trash, put the dog in and locked dog door since the gate keeps opening itself, took Case out fron to look for mauled cats, he started calling for his dad and threw a fit when we came back in and put the garage down. I sat down because I was exhausted, we looked at book. Then he threw a fit because he couldn't get his sock off. I got up and moved some stuff on the counter and picked up the crayons that were somehow back on the floor. Decided it was time to go upstairs for awhile. I picked up the laundry, sorted it, started it, sprayed all of Case's clothes with stain remover while he played. Took all of his toys out of our room and moved them back to his, cleaned off the entertainment center, stripped our bed he peed on, turned on Wubbzy for him, gathered more trash, stopped to rest (write this while he went to sleep), started a grocery list, switched the laundry, and then came downstairs, let the dogs out, took some tylenol and ate some pudding all before 3:30.

If you think I can do whatever I want whenever I want let me tell you a little about that. Yes, technically if I need to go to the grocery store we can just get up and go, but in reality by the time I get Case dressed and ready (I usually go with a pony tail, no make-up, a t-shirt and stretchy pants because I'm too tired to do anymore) and get him loaded in the car with some snacks and a drink, I am worn out. Then we get to the store, I unhook all those darn hooks on the carseat, put him in the shopping cart, he rides about 5 minutes before he starts screaming and trying to climb out. I try to distract him with something, 5 minutes later he's trying to get out again, I consider popping him on the leg because he needs to straighten up but look around at the 10 people staring at me and my out of control child and think "Which of the 10 think I should bust his bottom and how many of the 10 are just waiting to pull out their phone to call CPS because I 'spanked' him?" So instead of popping his leg and making him sit down like my good sense tells me to, I take him out of the cart and attempt to let him walk holding on to the cart. Not 5 or 10 minutes later he's bored with that and contemplating another tantrum. So this just goes on and on about every 10 minutes, meanwhile I am trying to read my list, collect the things we need while still looking for the best prices. When we've both just about had all we can take of that we get to the check-out where every lane has at least a 10 minute wait. He's wailing and people are looking at me either sympathetically or glaringly. I'm exhausted and ready to sit in the floor with him but we still have to pay (still have to get up to the cashier first), load our stuff in the car, load him in that carseat with the five zillion buckles while he screams bloody murder because he wants to drive rather than ride, make the 5 minute trip home to unhook those freaking buckles, and corral him while I unload. Or I could leave him buckled in screaming like a banshee for all the neighbors to hear while I unload. Generally the better option because at least I know he's contained somewhere safe. After that ordeal all I want to do is collapse (remember I am 4 months pregnant) and not fix our lunch.

What if you were thinking that a shopping trip is never fun and that surely I can do other fun things and it not be a problem? Well, let's see. I tried to go to MOPS which I dearly loved but he screamed like a maniac and got kicked out of his first class. He moved to another class and did better, but then we had some unavoidable circumstances where he had to miss a few weeks. I took him to church to the nursery in preparation for his next visit to MOPS and he cried and screamed. They didn't page me to come get him but I know the teacher wanted to. Then he started screaming before we even got in the building when we'd go to church. Finally I gave up. It's stressful when your child is the one that screams and all the teachers dread. I don't know how to make him quit. I've tried to the best of my ability. He freaks out at home when one of us walks out the door. He'll even freak out when someone he doesn't even want walks out the door. I know. I know. It's just a phase. We've been in this phase for a LONG time and it's just getting worse. We even sent him with his Grandma for several days. I thought he'd come back a little less attached. I think he's more attached. Are you thinking maybe he's crazy? See later paragraph.

Maybe you thought I could do something relaxing with him...well we get tired of being cooped up in the house so we like going outside. Right now our backyard is a mud pit so we have been working on that. I gave in to playing in the mud pit yesterday since we got our broken windows fixed but an airplane flew over and he freaked. I'm talking mass hysteria. Climbing up up my body. The more I try to pry him off the more he freaks out. Finally just sat down with him and and his mud drenched clothes until he chilled out. Airplane flew over again and he did the same thing. Are you thinking he has a problem? Don't worry- it's crossed my mind. I could take him to the pediatrician, but for $25 Ialready know what's she's going to say. "It's just a phase." Or another of my favorites- "It's behavioral and you are enabling that behavior."

We could play in the front but then you have to watch out for weirdos and keep him out of the street and you still have the problem of airplanes. We could go walk around Home Depot or The Garden Center and get some things we need to finish the backyard so that the next time he climbs me at least he isn't muddy but that's basically like the "going to Wal-Mart" experience.

Maybe I could just leave him with Keith and hang out with my friends. No, that doesn't really work either. Since I'm not working anymore, I haven't kept up with my work friends. They're all busy with their own families or they don't have kids and can do non-kid activities. I could go do non-kid activities if I had Keith baby-sit but in reality I don't have much in common with my non-kid friends because I spend 12 hours (sometimes more) a day talking to an almost 2 year old who doesn't respond much. My day is consumed with bodily functions, eating and putting out figurative fires. My best friend is in Dallas. My mom is 6 hours away. My mother-in-law is about 5 hours away. I tried to make friends at MOPS/church with other mom's but obviously Case was not a big fan of that. Hmmm... I'm at a loss. Occasionally someone comes to visit that I can go out with or it's someone we can leave Case with without him freaking out and I can go out with Keith. By occasionally, I mean a few times a year. Granted we do live 5 or 6 hours away from our family and don't have easy access to baby-sitters. If you are close to family or have reliable baby-sitters you are fortunate.

If you think that I watch soap operas and play on the computer all day you are mostly wrong. I often have soap operas on in the background if Case isn't watching Nick Jr., because I need to hear some adult conversation. Granted it's generally ignorant conversation but at least it's some conversation. Am I frequently checking my email and Facebook? Yes I am. Am I addicted? No. Again, I spend most of my waking hours with an almost 2 year old. We have no contact with the outside world. See the above paragraphs on MOPS and hanging out with friends. So I go on Facebook to connect with the outside world. Sometimes I read what other parents are going through and it makes me laugh. Sometimes I offer advice. Sometimes I go on just to chat with my mom because we're both too tired to talk on the phone or we can't talk over Case's squealing and screaming. Sometimes I go on and vent. One piece of advice though...if you don't want people in your business don't put it out there. People like to be in people's business.

I'm sure after people read this they'll be in my business. Am I complaining about my life as a stay at home mom? No. Am I thankful every day that I can be at home with Case? Yes. Does he make me crazy some days? Yes. Is he bad all the time? No he really isn't. For the most part, aside from the recent crazy airplane and fly phobia, I think he's a pretty typical 21 month old. Does that make it any easier to get through the day? No, not really. Along with his craziness, he's very smart and he's VERY busy. Although, we're about as baby proofed as you can be, he always has bruises. He's always into something I haven't thought of. He is always climbing something, emptying something, filling something, taking apart something... he goes non-stop and I have to be on my toes non-stop. If I put things where I think he can't get them, he will. If I think it's something he wouldn't mess with, he does. If I don't think of it, he will.

So all I am really saying is don't think I've got an easy job. I don't. No mom does. It's 24 hours a day 7 days a week. Even when he's asleep, I'm working either physically or mentally. He's been pulling his ears for 6 weeks. Do I need to take him back to the ENT? Well the ENT isn't going to give him meds and he doesn't have fever. Should I put him in Mother's Day Out to force him to get over this attachment issue? What if he has a brain tumor and that's why he acts crazy? He hit his head. Does he have a concussion? What if he turns out to be a brat because I don't make him stay in the nursery? Do I pop him on the leg too often because Keith won't. How do I make him quit throwing tantrums without popping him on the leg or bottom? Should I let him just throw fits when he doesn't get his way or will that prolong the tantrum throwing? What if everyone thinks I am a terrible parent because I am not doing it like they think I should or because he acts like a banshee? Afterall, being his mom is my job so if he acts like a heathen, isn't that a reflection of how I'm doing my job? Those are just a few of the things that go through my head on a regular basis. Stressful? A little.

Parenting- Not to be taken lightly. All of this and he's not even two. I know there are worse days ahead. Talking back. Being a teenager. Doing things that will break my heart and disappoint me. I know they are coming. I did my fair share of all of those things. All I can do now is my best and pray that he turns out ok. Sometimes, despite how you raise them, they don't turn out the way you want and you love them through it even though it hurts. That's what being a parent is about. It's wonderful but it also hurts. It's probably the hardest job you will ever do. Think about it before you consider it or before you judge someone because of their kid's behavior.

P.S. You don't get paid to be a parent. You don't get a raise. Sometimes you don't even get Mother's Day gift. And sometimes your child doesn't like you. And if you think you want a baby so someone will love you unconditionally, don't count on it.

21 Months

2010-04-06T21:39:00.002-05:00

Case recognizes the letters in his name.
He recognizes 8 shapes.
He recognizes several colors.
He can point to his head, ears, eyes, hair, teeth, tongue, mouth, nose, hands, fingers, belly button, privates and feet.
He also recognizes the cats' and dogs' body parts including tail and paws.

Potty Training Part 2

2010-03-23T19:33:00.004-05:00

Case went to his potty and peed three times yesterday without prompting! Yay for our big boy.

So far this has been a much less stressful experience than I anticipated. Quite honestly I did NOT want to potty train. The good thing about Case is that he is very observant. He watches and absorbs so much. And he is at a stage where he wants to help and he is thriving on verbal praise and clapping. He does things, claps for himself and then looks to see if you're clapping too. I guess this is really helping with our casual potty training attempt.

Today he used his potty once without prompting, twice with a prompt and had an accident while eating his lunch. At nap time I put a pull-up on him. He was restless and would not lay down. Finally he pointed to his pull-up and said "that." I asked if he needed to go potty. Of course he didnt respond but I took him down the hall to his bathroom where there is an Elmo potty seat on the big toilet. His little potty chair was downstairs. He peed on the big potty. Then he was asleep within about 5 minutes.

Case's Announcement

2010-03-15T21:54:00.002-05:00

Do I look like a BIG brother?

I had other precious pictures of Case that I took today but the camera ate them.

I am not a happy camper.

Potty Training Part 1

2010-03-11T17:48:00.002-06:00

We weren't planning to start potty training yet but he seemed very interested today. So far he doesn't want to tee tee in his potty, but we did accomplish a few things. He will go sit on the potty, scoot his booty back and tuck his little business in. It seems like he knows what to do but nervous about not peeing in his diaper. He started to tee tee in the kitchen and when he realized it he stopped. So he can control it. We'll see how it progresses.

ENT Update

2010-03-10T11:32:00.003-06:00

First of all, Case has been tugging on those ears again for the past 2-3 weeks. He hasn't run a fever and we generally don't take him to his pediatrician for these symptoms because she ALWAYS diagnoses him with an ear infection and sends us home with antibiotics. We have taken him to the ENT in the past to get him checked when he does this and our ENT ALWAYS says his ears are fine. Once again, I took him in to double check and the ENT assured me that his ears are clear and he's cutting his 2 year molars causing the ear pain. He said this could go on for awhile. That's fine. We suspected as much. Reassuring to know though. He also said, if it were an ear infection he would not treat it with antibiotics unless he began running a high fever anyway. We appreciate his anti-antibiotic approach after our 3 month battle with antibiotic induced diarrhea.

I also wanted to have Case checked for a sinus infection because of the amount of drainage he has in his throat and his obsessive clawing at his itchy eyes and nose. He also has strong sinus breath. This is not a new problem either. More like a chronic problem. We have talked to his pediatrician about it at nearly every well and sick baby appointment and we have been told the same thing...He doesn't have allergies. Just use saline drops, nose sucker, Vicks, humidifier, prop him upright when he sleeps, warm showers, Johnson and Johnson Vapor bath, Afrin. We have tried it all-REPEATEDLY. The nurse once told us we could try Children's Claritin or Zyrtec. The pediatrician told us he didn't need that because he doesn't have allergies. Well, she was wrong. Our ENT said today that he DEFINITELY has allergies and he can tell by just looking at him. His eyes are dark and puffy. He's congested and guess what. Allergies are hereditary. If you knew his mother as a child you would know that allergies were definitely a major problem. The doctor said chronic allergy infections can lead to sinus infections but antibiotics for the sinus infection is only a temporary solution. We need to start by treating the allergies. This is what we suspected. Case will be starting an allergy nasal spray which we hope we make a significant difference in this problem.

We are grateful for the outcome of this visit. We were reassured that his ears are fine and the doctor actually listened to our concern about this chronic allergy problem, agreed with us and is going to attempt to treat it. Case is home, happy and hoping for a good night's sleep.

Check back Monday for more news.

Dear Case

2010-02-23T09:28:00.003-06:00

Dear Case,

This stretch of getting up at 5am has been driving me crazy. We are exhausted. Why aren't you?You spilling red soda in my bed is not high on the list of things I appreciate today either. Neither is the fact that I had to reach my hand in the toilet and grab out a little tupperware of cat urine as you were flushing it. Why you even had access to cat pee is another story for another day. But, when you dance around the living room to the Weather Channel music with your milk in one hand and your Bible in the other, I can overlook all the little things that you're doing to make me nuts today. I love you.

Mom

February 17, 2010

2010-02-17T10:47:00.002-06:00

Case thought 6am was a good time to get up this morning. We watched some Wubbzy, drank milk, ate some Cheerios and watched Yo Gabba Gabba. He played a little while I did laundry. Then we went downstairs and apparently he forgot who he was and went a little crazy. First he was standing in his highchair-big no no. Got him down and spanked him. Next thing I know he's in the kitchen spitting his milk all over the floor. Needless to say that didn't go over real well either. We cleaned up the floor and swept it and then came back upstairs. He decided he wanted to go under the covers and pester Maddy. I really thought she was going to bite him. Every time I would look under the blanket he'd laugh and pull it back down. Next thing I know he's sound asleep at 10:45. Hmm...wonder how long he'll sleep.

Phrases he's saying:
Take baaa- take bath
good jooo- good job
looka dat- look at that

He also thinks he's getting a goldfish.

Playing with Steiny

2010-02-05T16:46:00.002-06:00

Crud Update

2010-02-05T11:25:00.004-06:00

Keith just took Case to the pediatrician. He has developed a sinus infection from his cold. He's getting amoxicillin and a decongestant. Hopefully he'll start feeling better pretty quick. And yes, this was the same pediatrician who not even 4 months ago, told us children his age don't get sinus infections. I'm going to the doctor after lunch. Hope I get meds too. Ready to crawl in a hole. :)

I have strep and sinus infection.

It's already February?!

2010-02-02T23:47:00.002-06:00

I guess it's been a good start to 2010. Not quite what we'd envisioned but it's going well. :)

Case is on day 8 of a nasty cold that he decided to share with me. Even though he got sick first, I seem to be getting well first. With his past history of antibiotic nightmares, we are trying desparately to avoid the doctor. So far he hasn't run any fever but his cough is pretty nasty. We're going to try and hold out and hope he starts perking up in another few days. I read that the common cold last 7-10 days with the cough lingering a few weeks. We'll see. We don't want any unnecessary antibiotics and we dont want to go spend 2 hours at our pediatrician's getting exposed to more junk.

In other news, he keeps us entertained. It's 11:50 PM and he just came running into our room laughing and saying "mom mom mom." Our success at sleeping in his bed came crashing down along with this cold. He's saying new words every day. His favorite phrase is "take bath, take bath." He's also been saying "minnow minnow minnow" but we aren't sure what he means. We haven't been talking about minnows, the fish, at our house. Maybe he means Muno, the guy from Yo Gabba Gabba. He's really enjoying books right now and rearranging the kitchen chairs. He just started bringing us a diaper and laying in the floor waiting for us to change him.

Guess I'll go see if we can get him back to sleep.

Playing Trains

2010-01-24T21:26:00.002-06:00

Milk

2010-01-24T20:58:00.001-06:00

Case has learned how to open the frig and get the milk out. Tonight he walked into the living room with a half gallon of rice milk.

January 20, 1010

2010-01-20T17:33:00.001-06:00

Slept all night in his big boy bed TWO nights in a row!

Said "bed' today when I sat him on it.

18 1/2 Months

2010-01-14T21:51:00.005-06:00

Case is such a big boy now. He is starting to follow directions. For example, Take this to Mom. Take this to Dad. Go get a diaper. Go to your chair. Go get the toilet paper. He understands A LOT. If we ask if he's hungry, he says "yum yum." If we ask if he is thirsty, he will say "cup" or go the frigerator and point out his milk when we open it. If we ask if he is ready for night night, he goes the gate and waits to go upstairs. He understands where "your room," "upstairs," "downstairs," "mom's room," and "outside" are and will go to the appropriate place. If we ask if he wants to take a bath, he goes straight to the bath tub. He loves baths and showers and washing his hands. He feeds himself independently and refuses if you try to help him. He loves beans, crackers, bananas, cheerios, cheese-its, Chef Boyardee, cooked carrots, chicken nuggets, fish sticks, FRENCH FRIES...really he eats just about everything we do as long as it's not hard or tough. He doesn't eat things like nuts, most chips, or raw veggies, tough steak, small, hard candies, or gummy things. He drinks Rice Milk. No cow milk for that boy! He loves doing puzzles, playing with cars, playing instruments, looking at books, dancing/singing animals, trains, Lightning McQueen, Baby Einstein movies, Yo Gabba Gabba, Wow Wow Wubbzy, Cars. He likes to put toilet paper in the toilet and flush it but he cries if you put him on the potty. Good thing we aren't in a hurry to potty train. He waves hi and bye to cars driving down the road, strangers in Wal-Mart. He stands at the window and barks with the dogs. He plays squirrels with Steiny. He runs and climbs. He squeals and laughs. He cries as soon as we walk into any doctor's office now. He loves shoes. He always wants them on. He likes to put things out the dog door...still. He loves to play peek-a-boo. Sometimes when I'm tickling him I say "giddy giddy giddy" and if I quit he says "gee gee gee." Other things he says are "dad," "gee gat" (kitty cat), "horse," "dat" (that) or "dere's dat" (there's that), or "what's dat?", "cup," "up," "wow wow" or "wub wub" which both mean Wow Wow Wubbzy and occasionally "yes," "no," "stop," "go," and "moma." He also started saying "yogi gogi o" which we think means Yo Gabba Gabba. Not sure though. He also says "hello" when he's playing on the phone but never to a real person. He understands a a lot of words and will point or look at many people or objects when named. If we show him a picture of a cat he'll point to our cats. Same with a picture of a dog. He signs "more" for just about everything he wants. If he wants to watch a movie, he picks it up, gets his dvd player and signs more. If he wants the light on, he looks at it and signs more. We're trying to get him to say "on." He's just a little hard headed. No surprise there (gets it from his mom) but we're working on it. He likes the color, red, Lightning McQueen, Mater, music, and tractors. He is 32 1/2 inches and weighs 25 pounds. He's growing up too fast and is so pleasant to be around right now. He helps put things away, helps dress and undress himself, helps wash himself, helps brush his teeth, helps brush his hair. He gives kisses and hugs. Waves night night. Only blows kisses to Maddy dog. He loves watching sports. He has all of his teeth except 2 year molars. I hope we can have a few months of calm before those start coming in! He goes to sleep in his bed and sleeps about half the night there. We're working towards all night. We ask if he's ready for night night between 8 and 8:30. He goes to the stairs and waves. He gets a bath. Gets in his bed with the lights off and one of us and he's been going to sleep within 15/20 minutes this week with no crying. I forgot he likes coloring too.

I Can Finally Walk!

2009-11-15T20:44:00.003-06:00

November 15, 2009

Finally more than just a few steps!

Halloween 2009

2009-10-31T22:43:00.002-05:00

The Great Pumpkin...Patch

2009-10-24T21:21:00.009-05:00

Case got to go to the Pumkin Patch in Pittsburg, TX today. There was so much to do he wore himself out. He did have a lot of fun. Now the pictures.

Larry, Curly, and Moe...yuk yuk yuk

Family in the patch.

Grammy and Poppy on the mountain.

Pumpkins are funny.

Look dad, PUMPKINS!

....And HAY!

For some reason case thought every pumpkin was "Hot Hot".

Bubba plowing his field.

Crawling, through the pumpkins...

Poppy and a tractor

Mom and the scarecrow.

Bobbing for pumpkins.

Rockin' Out

2009-10-05T12:13:00.003-05:00

A few pictures for Grandma Josie

2009-10-03T19:57:00.001-05:00

Small Steps

2009-09-21T19:48:00.003-05:00

Video- Click the arrow to play.

video

2009-09-19T23:00:00.000-05:00

Video was too big. Have to get another one tomorrow. Sorry.

Happy Bithday to Dad

2009-09-17T22:08:00.004-05:00

Yes, I am getting old. As of today I am 28 years old. Here are the pictures. I think Case enjoyed the cake the most. He pointed to it all night.

Bustin' a Move, Eating a Banana & Being Shy

2009-09-08T20:56:00.002-05:00

Dancing to America's Got Talent.

Moma's Boy...

2009-09-02T22:36:00.004-05:00

Aversion to his feet dangling...

Chronic green nose... I had hoped this would not be a trait he inherited....

and a passion for animals.

He had a wonderful time playing with his Grandma this weekend!

I bet it took her a few days to recover from all of their dancing and Cozy Coupe driving.

13 Months

2009-08-21T14:36:00.009-05:00

I almost don't even recognize this kid. Looks more like a toddler than our baby. No I did not cut off his curls. His hair is just flat today.

Scoping out the neighborhood.

Thinks he's funny because he can climb into the rocking chair.

Having a good time with Dad and Grandpa.

I love that hair!

Tackling his cousin, Branson. They are 6 weeks apart.

In front of something that's actually been in space.

Can you guess what this precious little face is up to?

Under the Hurricane Ike high water line in downtown Galveston

In front of Moody Gardens Aquarium

Laughing at the fish

Not too sure about sitting on fake coral

Pointing to the fish

with Uncle Brian at Tim and Amanda's wedding

Mad at me because he pushed all of the books out, climbed in and then got himself stuck.

Eating a chocolate covered pretzel downtown Galveston.

With Mama at the ocean.

checking out the water with Dad

Not too sure he wants to be an astronaut.

Playing Hockey Already!

2009-08-20T16:31:00.003-05:00

Hope he catches on to baseball as easily.

What's going on with Case?

2009-08-17T16:30:00.002-05:00

I know you are having Case withdrawals so here's what's been going on.
July 13- Case ate half a June bug
July 16- trying to stack objects
July 19- went to the Splash Pad
July 20-turning pages in a book and looking at pictures
July 22- putting shapes in shape sorter
July 25- quick trip to Hallsville for a fundraiser for my friend, Danny; they raised $12,000
July 31- Tim and Amanda's rehearsal dinner; Case's 1st time to stay with Grammy and Poppy
for and extended amount of time
August 1-2 Tim and Amanda's wedding; he had a busy time visiting with Brian, Katherine,
Grandma Josie, Uncle Beeper, Grammy and Poppy, Comb and Simone
August 3- went to the doctor for stomach problems
August 5- said "mama" 3 times; has only said it once since then
August 7-9- spent the weekend @ Clear Lake and Galveston visiting Moody Garden Aquarium,
Johnson Space Center, The Strand district, La King's, the chocolate factory, the ocean,
Kemah Boardwalk, rode a ferris wheel and 2 story carousel and swam
August 9- started clapping and said "water"
August 14-16- back to Hallsville for Mamaw and Papaw's 50th Anniversary party; there was a
wonderful turn out of friends and family

For now the only thing we have on our calendar is Brittany's wedding the weekend of September 26. We are looking forward to some down time but are planning to visit Grandma Josie between now then. Probably sooner rather than later.

Case's stomach problems are improving. He's not back to normal but much better. For now he is off of cow milk, cheese yogurt and soy and that seems to be helping. He has gained 3 lbs since stopping the milk products. He's up to his highest weight ever- 22.5 lbs

He still isn't walking but is getting closer. He's very busy driving toys all over, pulling pots and pans out of the cabinets to bang or drive. He plays with every single toy he has. He's showing interest in books now and some videos. Right now he enjoys Baby Einstein signing video, Baby Einstein Noah's Animals and Baby Babble. We have been checking DVDs out from the library to see what he likes. Also, checking Half Price Books for Baby Einstein videos. We're looking for Baby Einstein Old MacDonald and I'd like to find some Praise Baby DVDs. I am so thankful that he finally interested in some videos. It's nice to be able to put 1 in and him be entertained for 30 minutes. It also helped a lot when he started fussing in the car our last trip. Instant attitude change.

Things he eats: cooked broccoli, cooked carrots, soft cooked green beans, ranch style beans, refried beans, whole wheat waffles and whole wheat toast, peanut butter and jelly, spaghettios and chef boyardee, cheerios, fresh cantaloupe, pineapple, strawberries, watermelon, peaches, apples, apple sauce, pumpkin puree, pumpkin bread, strawberry bread, muffins, tortillas, pasta, french fries, mashed potatoes, some ground beef. He loves bananas. I think he'd live on bananas if we let him.

Things he used to love but isn't eating because of his stomach: mac and cheese, grilled cheese, enchiladas, quesadillas, cheese ravioli, yogurt.

Words he's saying- not necessarily clearly but we know what they are:
da da
dad
daddy
ma ma
dog
cat
this
that
horse
hush
hey
water
no
yes

Cute things he tries to do: put his socks and shoes on

Something that's probably not a big deal but impresses me: taking his straw out of his cup and trying to put it back in; seems like a good fine motor skill

Things he does but shouldn't: unroll the toilet paper, turn on bathtub water, put bathtub stopper in, turn on dishwasher, play in dog water, put things out the dog door, empty his dresser drawers, empty the bookshelf, open the baby gate if it isn't locked

That's all I remember at the moment. He's also pointing to everything and doing roll 'em up from pattycake. He loves playing in the water, swinging at the park and riding in his wagon.

We'll post pictures soon!

Cullen Park Splash Pad

2009-07-19T17:52:00.006-05:00

birthday pictures

2009-07-16T13:38:00.004-05:00

pictures postponed

2009-07-12T06:49:00.001-05:00

we're all sick- some more than others. i'll post more pictures when we've recovered.

More Party Pictures

2009-07-08T23:06:00.003-05:00

Still more coming.

1 Year Old

2009-07-06T15:11:00.003-05:00

More pictures coming as I sort through them and get them edited.

Born To Be Wild

2009-07-03T21:08:00.003-05:00

Case had to take his motorcycle safety course before he could get on his Birthday present from Cousin Billy and Marcy in Pennsylvania. Once he got used to it and learned the ropes he was off and running. And he is a wild man. Meanwhile mom and Christian were busy making cakes for the party and they turned out great. The fun starts tomorrow. Tune in soon for pictures.

Happy 1st Birthday, Case!

2009-07-01T00:17:00.006-05:00

June 30, 2008- Josie, Mom and Harley were in town because of some early labor signs. On Sunday night (the 29th) I quit taking the medicine to stop the contractions. Monday morning we went to Target and walked around awhile and got a few last minute things I needed in case our doctor decided to go ahead and do the c-section after my Tuesday, July 1st appointment. Maybe it was a Wednesday appointment. Not too sure now. Anyway, Mom spent the day trying to get me still long enough to paint my toenails. Wanted them to look nice. I wan't in a hurry really. Thought there was time. Got on the Wii Fit to weigh and did a few step aerobics just because I could. It was close to time for the doctor's office to close. Decided on a whim to call them just in case I needed to be checked. I wasn't really feeling contractions ever. Well, I felt them but they weren't strong enough for me to count or recognize. It was more pressure and a knife in my back. Somehow I ended up going to the hospital to get checked with Mom and Josie. My best friend and her husband were on their way down for the night-on a Monday night from Dallas- a little random, but ended up perfect timing. I told her I wan't going to have the baby while she was there. I didn't dress up for the trip to L&D. Just showed up to get checked. After an eventful experience with a crazy nurse a few days earlier, they remembered me and that my baby was breech.
They did their little exam. Called my doctor. I'm just chilling. Wondering if there's been any change since the last time. I'm not sure who was more surprised- me, Mom or Josie- when the nurse came back and said, "What do you think about having your baby in about two hours?" Was that an option? Because when it came right down to it I wasn't sure I wanted to. Turns out, it wasn't an option. After that there was a lot of scrambling about, phone calls being made and quite a bit of nervousness. We watched videos last night, from that time and it takes me right back. I remember it very vividly. Keith, Mom, Josie, Harley, Christian, Joey were there. Tim, Amanda, Dad, Grandpa, Chickie, Paul and Heather were on their way. I went back a little before 8 PM. At 8:09 Case was born. 6 lb 9 oz. I thought he was so big. Between 8:30 and 8:45 I was back in my TINY room. I don't remember much between then and when Dad came and they brought the baby in finally around midnight. I must have been a little drugged because I wasn't freaking out to see the baby. I was calm. They showed me pictures on the camera and told me things the doctors said and I waited patiently. Even when they brought him in I didn't hold him right away. My dad held him first. Not sure who was after him. Probably a long list of people. There were a lot of people there.

I think they all left between 2 and 3. The baby left to go get checked or something. I called for them to bring him back though and he stayed with us the whole time except for baths and tests. I remember a lot about how unfriendly and unhelpful the nurses were but we all survived.

Today, June 30, 2009, we celebrated Case's 1st birthday. We celebrated that we all survived the 1st year in one piece.

The day started with his Dad telling him Happy Birthday before he left for work even though Case was still asleep. A few hours later, Case woke up saying "good" anf then the usual "daddy." I sang Happy Birthday to him. He got a text from Grammy and Poppy and a call from Grandma Josie. We took a bath and played with letters. Then we tried to take some pictures.

Big Harley wishes him a Happy Birthday!

We played in his room. He looked out the window and called for Daddy.

He didn't want to sit still for any pictures. He's just too busy.

So he just decided to stand up.

In the rocking chair of course. I mean where else would a little boy stand for the first time?!

Then we had breakfast. He had milk in a sippy cup, yogurt with cereal, cheerios and cantaloupe.

After that he tried out his new paints from Uncle Brian. Thankfully they are non-toxic because he thinks they are to eat.

We played. We sang. He had lunch-juice, eggs, cheerios, cantaloupe, toast with cream cheese. He napped. Alison and the boys brought cupcakes andbooks. When he woke up we read and played some more. We basically celebrated all day.

Then we went to the party store and I bought a swirly straw for his birthday dinner because he just learned to use a straw. I also got him a candle for his cupcake and who cake resist the First Birthday hat?! We couldn't.

We took him to Chili's for his birthday dinner. He ordered pineapple juice, Mac and Cheese and Cinnamon Apples from the kids menu. He even ate a few fries. He was stuffed. Then we went home to have our cupcakes.

At first he didn't know you could use your hands. He was so precious! Finally he let loose.

He ate about half and then decided to share it with Maddy and Steiny. Once he offered it there was no time to change his mind. It was gone.

So he washed it all down with his swirly straw. Then he got a bath and played. To close out his special day we went to watch Daddy play hockey and his team played a great game winning 6-5. During the 1st period Grammy, Poppy and Uncle Beeper called to sing Happy Birthday and talk about his special day. Then Mamaw and Papaw called. He got a lot of Happpy Birthday wishes on Facebook and hockey. I think he had a pretty great day.

Yesterday, he got a great surprise in the mail from Billy and Marci and their family. It is so cute! Pictures will be coming Wednesday or Thursday. In the mean time you can be guessing what it is. Few hints- I've never seen one. It is adorable. His Poppy would like his own. When he was in the hospital he had an outfit to match it.

Thank you everyone for celebrating this special day with us!

To remember this day last year click this link.

He's Here

In 1 week...

2009-06-23T12:25:00.002-05:00

Case will be ONE!

Case & Daddy after church on Father's Day

Almost One

2009-06-15T21:33:00.005-05:00

Our baby is growing up. In 2 weeks he'll be 1!

For his birthday we bought him a big boy bed and he LOVES it!

Jabber Mouth

2009-05-28T18:45:00.002-05:00

Case's ENT appointment went well. His ears were all better and there is no need for tubes at this point. Since his ears have cleared up he's started "talking" non-stop and very loudly. He talks so much he doesn't even want to sleep. Yesterday I was so ready for a little peace and quiet that I put him in the car and drove to the bookstore. I knew the car ride would finally put him to sleep. It worked until we strolled into the bookstore. Then he started squealing, screeching and screaming at the top of his lungs. The silent bookstore was not appreciative.

Words that he now says:
dad
daddy
daddad
doo doo
bye bye
dog
hey
hush
love you (once)

Update

2009-05-20T19:44:00.002-05:00

Case is starting to run low fever again. We had a few days where he was normal, but he's up to 99.6 with the Motrin. The doctor won't do anything until we get to 100.4. I guess the shots and latest antibiotic are not doing the trick. Please pray that he gets feeling better soon, that the fevers go away and that the ENT will fix him. That appointment is Friday at 10am.

Just Pictures

2009-05-18T22:03:00.006-05:00

helping himself to the yogurt and grits... the consequence of helping himself...

eggs for lunch

Tribute to a Dear Friend...

2009-05-18T19:40:00.004-05:00

It's a sad day for Mom and Dad's beloved pet, Case's Uncle Austin and the thorn in my side (just kidding). In all honesty, I really love that dog but don't tell him. It will seriously go to his head. Today we learned that Austin's herding days will be no more. After a few weeks of leg trouble, yesterday Austin blew out his knee and I mean totally blew it out. He completely tore his ACL in two. He will soon be undergoing surgery and extensive rehabilitation. Our thoughts are with him during this difficult time.

We love you, TT Dog!

Ear Infection Part 50

2009-05-18T15:53:00.002-05:00

Case's ears are slightly better. Last week the doctor said we could expect drastic improvement. We are continuing the Suprax and have an appointment with the ENT Friday morning. We'll see where we go from there. He was running low temp in the doctor's office.

Grandma Josie Comes to Town

2009-05-17T23:10:00.001-05:00

Case is glad his Grandma came to see him before she had to go back to Pennsylvania. We miss you already and we love you Grandma Josie.

Where we are today

2009-05-15T11:52:00.003-05:00

Exhausted. Tired of multiple trips to the doctor in a week. Even multiple trips in a day in some cases. I had an appointment this morning and have a sinus infection. I'm taking Case back this afternoon at 1:45. He has actually been fussier if that is possible the last 2 days. Holding his ear in his sleep and sounds like some congestion may be building back up. I know it seems crazy that I keep taking him in and not letting him run a full course of antibiotics, but I did try an 8 day stretch and he was worse when I took him in. I know that something is still wrong and after 3 weeks of this he needs a break. We need to get this fixed. If he needs tubes in his ears lets just get it done. How many more things are we going to try? The child is miserable. His parents are miserable.

We are also excited to just find out that Josie is coming! She sounds so excited and so are we. I hope she has a nice relaxing weekend enjoying watching Case. I hope he will perk up and be in a great mood for her.

Still sick

2009-05-14T14:55:00.002-05:00

We got a 2nd opinion after our pediatrician started Case on a 3rd antibiotic for his ears. The new doctor said only one ear is infected and prescribed a 4th antibiotic. Case has been pulling at both ears so I guess we're really not sure which doctor is correct. He's still crabby. Actually seems fussier than he has been. Quit taking his temperature because neither doctor really cares unless it gets to 100.4. In the last 3 weeks the highest it ever got was 99.9. He's been on Motrin around the clock so I don't think the temps are accurate anyway. Not sure if we'll call back tomorrow or Monday or just wait out the 10 days on this antibiotic. I do know that we are all 3 EXHAUSTED!

Happy Mother's Day

2009-05-10T13:56:00.004-05:00

Happy mother's day to my wonderful wife and my favorite mother and mother-in-law. We love you and miss you all. Click the link below to download your mother's day surprises.

Case and I appreciate all you have done for us and always being there for us.

You'll have to adjust the volume. Some music is louder and some is quiet.

Debbie's Link

Josie's Link

Case Update

2009-05-08T10:30:00.002-05:00

congestion improving
sleeping better
still having low temps off and on
still tugging his ears
vomitting and diarrhea off and on
had a screaming fit in the middle of the night last night
still sleeping upright in car seat

Ear Infection Part 2

2009-05-04T15:15:00.002-05:00

I took Case back to the doctor today after seeing no improvement on the antibiotics. He now has a double ear infection. His right ear has gotten worse and the left has become infected too. We are starting a new antibiotic and should not expect improvement for 24-48 hours.

Happy 10 Month Birthday, Case.

2009-05-01T10:56:00.003-05:00

With Case's illness and the pig flu drama, I forgot to mention yesterday that it was Case's 10 month birthday! Only 2 more months until he's 1. Hard to believe it went by so fast. I think after his party Keith and I deserve a party for surviving and seeing to it that he survived a whole year.

So far Case has had an eventful first 10 months. He's seen 2 major hurricanes. Became an evacuee for one of them. Saw snow very briefly. Witnessed the inauguration of the first African American president. Had a flood. And now watching the world's response to the Swine Flu outbreak. Hoping for a calm last 2 months until his birthday! :)

As for his cold/ear infection, he slept a lot yesterday and last night. He seemed to be resting more comfortably with less congestion than previous nights, but the congestion is building back up. His temps are staying below 100. He continues to take Tylenol and his antibiotic. I believe he's doing alright. He's back to getting in trouble this morning. I just caught him chowing down on a piece of cat food. Now he's in the floor playing with his Learn & Discover Driver. If I hear "Slow down little fella" one more time I might hide that toy. Ok, not really. He loves that thing.

Later I will post a new 10 month old picture.

Happy Friday! I think we're about ready for this week to be over.

Current Diagnosis

2009-04-30T15:25:00.005-05:00

UPDATE: Case has been resting comfortably for about 5 hours this evening. Temps are staying below 100. He started his antibiotics and is taking regular doses of Tylenol. Hopefully he will continue resting comfortably through the night. He hasn't slept well in several days and neither have we.

Case was diagnosed with an ear infection and cold. He is on antibiotics. He had a bad night. Was much worse this morning but has perked up this afternoon. I will continue watching him and taking his temperature. He was not tested for swine flu. He has not yet grown a tail but should he get worse we will take other measures besides the pediatrician. In the meantime, please pray that we are able to rest better tonight.

Little Buddy Doesn't Feel Well

2009-04-21T21:19:00.002-05:00

Silly Case

2009-04-18T09:04:00.002-05:00

2009-04-17T23:04:00.002-05:00

Tornado Shelter

Case being funny

Pseudostrabismus

2009-04-16T20:34:00.005-05:00

Case's eyes are just about perfect. He was thoroughly examined and the consensus is pseudostrabismus.

http://www.eyecareamerica.com/eyecare/conditions/pseudostrabismus/index.cfm

http://www.health.state.mn.us/divs/fh/mch/webcourse/vision/pseudostrabismus.cfm

Light reflections appear to be appropriate.

Adventures of Case

2009-04-15T13:14:00.002-05:00

Case and Papaw

Case and Grammy at the World of Outlaws

Case loving the cars!

Case riding the zebra

Trying out the saddle

Easter Part 2

2009-04-15T13:07:00.002-05:00

Cowboy Keith

Keith riding Amigo.

Case playing with his Easter eggs.

Happy Easter Part 1

2009-04-12T20:38:00.001-05:00

Long Tall Texan

2009-03-22T21:28:00.005-05:00

Happy Friday!

2009-03-19T23:29:00.001-05:00

Nap Time

2009-03-17T19:54:00.001-05:00

That's about how he was in the womb- folded in half with his toes at his ears.

A Little More Case

2009-03-10T21:55:00.005-05:00

Riding my Cozy Coupe at Grandma's house.

Jesus Loves Me

Crawling to Mom and Dad's room

8 Months Old

2009-03-04T23:26:00.003-06:00

Case wearing Uncle Beeper's old shirt. He's so handsome in red.

Lots More Coming Soon!

2009-03-02T10:59:00.003-06:00

Until late tonight or early tomorrow, here are a few sneak peaks at what our 8 MONTH OLD is doing!

Videos and more pictures coming soon!

The Couchy Mountain

2009-02-22T21:30:00.006-06:00

Case decided today would be the day for an adventure. Today he would attempt to climb the Couchy Mountain.

This would be no small feat so he decided to get to it.

He carefully made his way up the treacherous slope of the mountain.

Then he slipped.

What fate will await our hero!

He held on for dear life with one hand in hopes of rescue.

Luckily Dad was there to help him out.

Thanks Dad.

Now it's time to relax with Mom and enjoy the triumph of the day.

Happy Baby!

2009-02-21T20:14:00.001-06:00

New shoes and new play table.

I want my milk!

2009-02-18T21:36:00.003-06:00

Case Can Crawl!

2009-02-18T20:58:00.003-06:00

Our Sunshine....

2009-02-04T15:47:00.004-06:00

Our baby has an ear infection and he is miserable. The dogs have spent most of the day outside because they can't stand the wailing and now I'm taking tylenol right along with him. My head is pounding. This is right after we got home from the doctor. He finally fell asleep.

Here are a few other random pictures.

This is a dog I made him. He loves chewing on it.

His new skill- hands and tip toes.

Playing with his toy basket. So cute.

So rotten!

Mad because he had to get his face cleaned off. :)

Practicing standing.

Just a Swingin'

2009-01-31T16:46:00.002-06:00

Case went to the park and learned to swing and slide! He had a lot of fun.

In the video you can see he also learned to defy gravity as he was swinging sideways in the video. Either that or we accidentally took the video vertically and couldn't rotate it.

Probably the latter. Hope you enjoy the pics as much as Case did the park.

Our last fun adventure of the weekend....

2009-01-27T17:36:00.005-06:00

We took Case to a hotel with and indoor pool and spent the night. It was a great mini vacation. The hotel was about 30 minutes away. The pool was heated and the room was nice. And it was just the 3 of us away from home for a night. Case isn't smiling in any of the pictures but he really did like it and he was laughing and smiling whenever I would turn the camera off. He actually loved the water. Click on the pictures to see them larger.

Case in his Little Swimmers.

A Trip to the Houston Zoo

2009-01-27T17:30:00.002-06:00

This weekend we decided to take Case to the zoo. To be honest he was more interested in the vegetation than the animals. He did pet the goat that came and sat in front of him though.

Case's New Trick

2009-01-27T17:23:00.004-06:00

We're going to have to start raising his crib rail. He hasn't pulled himself to a standing position yet but he's pulling himself to a sitting position. I think he's quite impressed with himself.

Tootie Facts

2009-01-16T01:24:00.002-06:00

1. He is the cutest baby on the planet. (According to his Dad.) I think this qualifies as an opinion.

2. He thinks Big Harley is hillarious.

3. He got 2 teeth for Christmas.

4. He loves bath time.

5. He sleeps 10-12 hours a night.

6. He gets up on his hands and knees now.

7. He loves to eat.

8. He weighs 17 lbs 2 oz.

9. He's 26 inches long.

10. He has slept in his own room since birth.

11. He has a birthmark called a hemangioma on his shoulder.

12. He loves to watch football.

13. He just had his first cold at 6 1/2 months.

14. He cannot stand being on his back.

15. He crawls backwards.

December 30, 2008- 6 Months Old

2009-01-16T01:17:00.002-06:00

A Glimpse of Christmas

2009-01-16T00:54:00.007-06:00

Sorry it took so long. There were way too many pictures to sort through. Click on pictures to see them bigger.

6 Months Old!

2008-12-30T12:42:00.004-06:00

Our baby has officially spent half a year with us! Look how much he's changed.

1 week

6 months

1 week

6 months

Fluor Children's Christmas Party

2008-12-13T20:16:00.004-06:00

Santa said, "This age is easy. They don't ask questions."

Then Case tried to rip his beard off.

Case really liked the cotton candy!

He tried to grab it away from me and shove it in his mouth!

The balloon was intriguing too.

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

What Case is doing now...

2008-12-11T12:37:00.003-06:00

Today Case tried sitting up on his own. It only lasted a couple of seconds.

"Yeah, I do things. So what."

The other day he actually got his belly up off the floor a few times and scooted. I wouldn't really call what he does crawling because the movements and direction are pretty haphazard but he is moving! The other day he went from the middle of the living room to the kitchen tile!

He interacts with toys now. He even reaches for them on his own.

He is also reaching for peoples' drinks and food. He has figured out that cups go to your mouth. Of course right now he thinks everything goes to your mouth. He's eating baby food without any trouble. The other night he ate a jar of carrots AND half a jar of pears. He grabs hair and earrings so watch out. This morning he grabbed a handful of Olivia's hair and yanked it. If you know Olivia, you know that anyone else she would have ripped their hand off but she just turned and looked at him and then casually walked away. Last night he was in his car seat and she went and curled up next to it. Olivia is NOT a people person but I think she likes him. He grabbed big Harley's ear and patted him on the back. Those dogs had better watch out. He'll be after them in no time!

Today at Case's House...

2008-12-10T19:37:00.003-06:00

It snowed. He didn't like it very much.
The flakes were a lot bigger before we finally decided to go out.

Case remembers Aunt Sandy

2008-12-10T17:16:00.009-06:00

Aunt Sandy rubs Case's feet.

"No, Aunt Marcia, I will not go with you. I'm good here."

Sandra Kay Curry, 63, went to be with her Lord and Savior while at home, surrounded by family and friends. She fought a courageous battle against a lengthy illness. She was a wonderful wife, mother, "Maw," aunt and sister. She was blessed.

She was in the band and was a drum major at Marshall High School and graduated in 1964. While in high school, she met the love of her life, Harry, at the skating rink. She won him with a smile and a wink - true love. They were united in marriage October 16, 1964.
She enjoyed gardening and yard work. She loved to ride horses and take buggy rides with Harry. After graduation and marriage, Sandra went to a local beauticians' school.
Sandra had two children, Michael and Marcia. She raised them in the ways of God and loved and supported them as they reached for their goals in life. She was an active member of Trinity Baptist Church, where she sang in the choir and taught children's Sunday school for many years. She was a faithful servant. Sandra worked for Hallsville ISD for 23 years in food services. “Maw” had four grandchildren and loved to attend their activities even through her illness. She was sustained by the tender care and love from her husband, family and friends.
Sandra was preceded in death by her parents, James Rade and Martha Nix; and her husband, Harry.

She is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, Michael and Beckie Curry of Hallsville; her daughter and son-in-law, Marcia and Michael Oxsheer of Hallsville; her grandchildren, Danielle Curry, Nick Curry, Mason Oxsheer and Luke Oxsheer; her sister and brother-in-law, Barbara and Vernon Weaver of Longview; a niece and her husband, Debbie and Craig Schulter of Omaha, Texas; and her sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, Larry Curry, June Dyke, Jan Turner and James Curry.

A homegoing service will be 2 p.m. Thursday, December 4, 2008, at Trinity Baptist Church of Lakeport, with Dr. Gary Orr officiating. Burial will follow in Rosewood Park Cemetery.
The family will receive friends 6-8 p.m. today, December 3, 2008, at Rader Funeral Home in Longview.

Memorial donations may be made to the Society for Progressive Supranuclear Palsy at Executive Plaza III, 11350 McCormick Rd., Suite 906, Hunt Valley, MD 20131.

Case meets Claire

2008-11-28T11:37:00.003-06:00

He was laughing up until we grabbed the camera to get their picture. Suddenly, he started shrieking and Claire was like "What's this kid's problem? I didn't touch him." It really was precious. This was Case's first time to meet another baby.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2008-11-27T23:11:00.004-06:00

Case goes to Grandma's

2008-11-24T20:00:00.005-06:00

Case and Kody

Kisses from Grandma Josie

Laughing at Dad

Relaxing with Grandpap

Hanging out with Aunt Barb

More to come

2008-11-24T12:00:00.000-06:00

Just a Few Pictures

2008-11-17T18:43:00.004-06:00

4 Month Check-up

2008-11-11T18:57:00.002-06:00

Case went for his 4 month check-up today. He weighed 15 lbs 9 oz and was 24 1/2 inches long. The doctor said he was in the 25th percentile for height and head circumference and the 75th for weight, however I don't think he took into consideration that Case is actually 4 1/2 months at this check-up. I looked at the growth charts and I think he's actually in the 50th percentile for weight. Not that it matters. The doctor said he wasn't too fat just gained more than he expected. I really think these extra 2 weeks made the difference because when we weighed him 2 weeks ago he was a whole pound less. I don't want anyone thinking he's eating too much! : )

As you can tell I'm very into his height and weight and percentiles and such, but just as important are his developmental milestones. He met most of those. They actually are things he should meet between 3 and 5 months so they told me not to worry if there are some he hadn't met yet. The nurse said he may be behind on some and ahead on others. The one thing that he's definitely not doing is reaching up for us to pick him up. Otherwise, everything else was mastered or almost mastered. I wasn't sure if he made 2 syllable sounds, or short a and o sounds or was comforted by a a familiar voice but after talking to Keith and thinking about it, we think he does those too. I guess we'll be working on reaching for people in the next couple of weeks.

Healthwise, the doctor said he looks great. Eyes, ears, nose, stomach, arms, legs- everything looks good.

I was very excited going in today thinking they would say I could officially start solids. Imagine my shock when they said they generally recommend waiting until 6 months. I guess the shock and disappointment was all over my face because he conceded. He did tell me how there was no nutritional value to feeding solids at this point and that it was probably going to be more trouble than it was worth. I think he was trying to discourage me. I didn't bother to tell him that we've already tried it and it's no trouble at all. Case is turning into a snapping turtle and will grab that food right off the spoon if you don't give it to him fast enough.

On another note, many people seem shocked that Case sleeps 10 hours straight at night. So much that I was starting to be concerned myself, but after finding out today that his weight is good maybe even a little heavy and that he eats a little more milk a day than the average baby I'm not going to worry anymore. Instead I'm going to revert back to my original thinking- it's a blessing. Plain and simple. The good Lord knows how much my body needs rest and this is His way of making sure I get it!

Thanks for checking in. We'll put up some new pictures soon!

Oh. I forgot to mention that Case got 6 vaccinations today. So far he hasn't been cranky. Just a little sleepier than usual for this time of night.

Halloween Part 2

2008-11-01T17:00:00.004-05:00

Good Morning.

Mutton Bustin'

Mmmmm. Smarties!

I want all of it.

I don't know about this candy.

Ok. Give me more.

Watching football.

Beware of the Sock Monkey!

2008-10-31T23:33:00.006-05:00

Aparently most of Houston is unfamiliar with the sock monkey as case was more often called Curious George by the people who's house we visited. They all still thought he was cute though so I guess it's alright (though not with his mom). He even had one girl take his picture.