One Busy Boy

December

2010-12-06T05:58:00.000-08:00

So its the start of Christmas and I have been trying to keep up with Ali' Edwards December Daily. I am gonna try to keep track of our days here and then put it all together at the end of the month.

December 1:

Wednesday - one of my work at home days. We waited for our new Christmas Tree to arrive, but it never did. It was a low-key day. I did manage some pictures of Noah by the tree and we got our first snow that day.

December 2 :

Our tree arrived. We put it together after Noah went to bed and even had to break out the big ladder to get the top on. It turned out gorgeous - but wow - is it tall!

December 3:

I had two Christmas Parties. We had our work Christmas lunch at Andiamos. nice to get out of work for a few hours and have a blast chatting! I relieved mom for a few hours, Noah and I cleaned and then mom came back and I met Jim for his Holiday Party at the Marriott in Livonia. nice to see people I used to work with and catch up with them.

December 4:

Made it to Walmart to try a picture with Santa and one tired little boy was having NONE of it. We did get one picture and it may be the best we get this year. Picked up some Christmas gift and later in the day hit up Target to finish decorating at home. Came home and started putting up ornaments on all of our trees.

December 5:

Had a 31 Party. Bunch of people. lots of food - makes for a good recipe for fun. Was nice to have everyone over and kick off the Holiday Parties here.

I'll post pictures later of Noah and Santa and our tree!

Judy

Halloween Costume

2010-10-28T17:58:00.001-07:00

This is Noah's Halloween Costume - thanks to Lisa who sent me a photo of her son who Noah couldnt stop looking at - well at least its one that he will wear!!

Look what I made

2010-10-17T12:50:00.000-07:00

An addition to our Halloween Decorations.....

Made with Tim Holtz stamps, Happy Haunting Cricut Cartridge

Landscape

2010-08-22T16:54:00.000-07:00

Noah has been jumping more and more - in fact he now understands how to just randomly jump in the air - makes for fun times!

The landscape is complete, not without drama from The Soil Erosion Committee....but complete...and specks of grass are sprouting all over the place.

Above are a few pics of the front of the house, Noah's swingset and the back. He did an awesome job!

Jim, his dad, my nephew, jim's sisters boyfriend, his sister, and my brother have started the basement - long way to go - but definately nice to see progress.

Vegas & Landscape

2010-07-27T18:19:00.000-07:00

We went to Vegas last week and had a blast. Noah stayed with the in-laws and we took a much needed break. So nice...a bit hot...but hey - it's dry heat! We stayed at Paris, our first time staying there and I have to say that I don't recommend it - the room was small, our view was a brick wall and well everything seemed a bit old - plus, they were refinishing the gaming floor while we were there so everything was under constant construction. We also got delayed coming back and ended up in Cleveland for an hour due to heavy storms in Detroit.

Our landscaping is coming along. The patio is basically done. They still have all the lighting to do and the front pebbles and more trees plus all the seed work. Still a ways to go - but it looks awesome.

Been Awhile

2010-06-30T06:22:00.000-07:00

We've been busy - and its been crazy - oh and we've been up north - and our landscaping has started - and we spent 200 bucks on the cat - and I had my company picnic - and we've been planning for Vegas - and we've played in our splash blow up thing - and watched the fireworks from across the man made lake here -and we've played in the lake - and we have taken Noah to see Toy Story 3 not once - but TWICE! We are headed up north for the fourth of July - nothing like a little Higgins Lake to make you a little happier in life!

Memorial Day Weekend

2010-06-01T03:49:00.000-07:00

We headed up to the cabin this weekend for some much needed relaxation, sleep and movie watching. The weather was awesome. Decided Sunday that Noah needed a small pool up there so Sunday morning we went to Kmart to buy him one of the small plastic ones. Filled it when we got home- and then decided while it warmed up we should go to the lake. packed a few things and headed on down. Noah loved the water, he took a long stoll out to the middle of the swim area and back with Daddy and had fun playing in the sand with grandma. Although, he wasn't too fond of the sand in between his toes- but I can't blame him - I'm not either. We came back from the lake, he played in his pool for awhile and then crashed for an hour nap (it probably would have been longer but we had a gust of wind blow a bunch of doors shut that thats what woke him up! Didn't do much else that evening - it was muggy that night so it made for harder sleeping conditions. Yesterday on our way home we stopped at the outlet stores and then came home for laundry time- fun stuff I tell you! Hope you had a great memorial day weekend!

Judy

Busy Weekend!

2010-05-26T07:34:00.001-07:00

SO - on Saturday Noah decided enough was enough with his crib - so he climbed out of it...many times - we decided that climbing over the top probably wasn't safe- so off we went to buy a Toddler Bed. He is so little in it! And the bed is so little to top it off - but, he loves it - that's all that matters. Over the weekend we finished the rubber mulch around Noah's swingset - it looks awesome - and I think he has become the envy of all the neighborhood kids- since he made a new friend Nick - the neighbor kid across the street who is two years older than him and wanted to come play on the swingset. Noah was in 7th heaven with someone to play with!

This weekend I also made a card for my friend Stephanie's graduation. Nothing too extravagent - but it was nice to play for a change. We also saw some hot air baloons fly right over the house Sunday night - quite the sight!

Required: Two moderately handy people

2010-05-17T10:39:00.000-07:00

So- we bought this swingset - awesome - cedar - the best one for the best price. The instructions say that it will require two moderately handy individuals. um - yeah - no problem. So, we had 5 at one point - but hey - whose counting? And, we still don't have a swingset. And, I am amazed after working on it with just my hubby yesterday we are still married - because it should also have a warning - caution - may cause yelling, screaming and walking away. So, by day two all we managed to have is the tower (a completed tower) - but no swings, or other stuff yet - why? Because I told him that the bolt wasnt big enough....but what do I know?? Here are some pics from the weekend fun. Soon it will be done - maybe.....

Happy Mother's Day

2010-05-10T11:56:00.000-07:00

Happy Mother's Day!

We had a good one- had brunch at a really nice banquet facility in the area and Noah got me a gift card for Michael's. Also, put all the scrapbook stuff away from the crop at the Mega Meet. Had fun on Friday doing that. I finished a 2-page spread for Noah's birthday layout - which Val told me that I have to post. It's not completely finished - still need journaling- but here it is. Also, I'm posting the fantastic new home card that I got in the mail from Val.

Nes House, Noah's Two!!

2010-05-02T14:20:00.000-07:00

Moving...it's crazy...it's stressful....it's expensive....and it makes you touch every single thing you own and wonder- why do I own that? Somewhere in the midst of packing and moving, Noah turned TWO!!! We celebrated at Chuck E. Cheese where he was VERY overwhelmed by the kids and the big giant rat. But, he got lots of cool stuff - and I am so behind on the thank you's and the moving announcements -

Anyway- a short tour of the bottom level of the house- minus the giant playroom - since it looks a little like Toys R Us threw up in there right now.

Been Super Busy

2010-04-04T04:56:00.000-07:00

Last weekend when we went to the house all the carpet was installed. It looked nice- although the carpet in Noah's room was a little more blue than we had anticipated. We also went to an Egg Hunt at the model where we met a couple of new neighbors and Noah got to see the Easter Bunny. Noah loved the Easter Bunny he wanted to take him for a walk- and he really got the egg hunt. This week flew by- we cleaned the garage and the basement and packed some boxes. I had Good Friday Off so we went to Sams to check out a swing set for Noah. We ended up with the swing set and a water play thing. Can't wait to use that. Yesterday we headed over to the inlaws for a BBQ. Noah had an Easter Egg Hunt there too. We also went and saw the Easter Bunny yesterday morning (I'll scan the picture in later). We saw the house yesterday too- the dishwasher, oven and microwave were all installed and look awesome. We are still missing the granite :o( All the cardboard is off the flooring - so we could see the hardwood and the other two shelves are stained. Looking good- but I can't wait to see the granite in!

Today we are off to see my brother for Easter- lots of good picture potential there

Happy Easter!

More house pictures

2010-03-22T17:26:00.000-07:00

This weekend we went- everything is looking good. We also ordered all the drapes and bought everything that we needed. I'm exhausted- and in need of a kid break...any takers?? Just two hours??? I think I need Calgon to take me away today. The alarm system was in, and all the appliances was there.....can't wait to see those installed- and did I mention that my Tub finally showed up???

Moving Weekend- for mom!

2010-03-22T05:55:00.000-07:00

We moved mom this weekend. On top of that- we took Noah to get his two year pictures at Portrait Innovations. I wasn't impressed with the photographer- but really didnt have a choice since Kiddie Kandids had gone out of business. We also went to the house on Saturday (and Sunday)- the alarm system is in- the speakers are in, the faucets are in- its totally looking like a house- one month from today we close- OH MY GOD!!! Here are some pictures of Noah's photo session!

Have a great Monday!

Busy, Busy, Busy

2010-03-15T18:42:00.000-07:00

So- Busy - just so stinking busy.

We moved bits of moms stuff this weekend - big moving weekend is this upcoming weekend. So glad when that will be done. We also went to my cousin's daughter's birthday- lots of family, fun and good food. We headed to the house this weekend, we were temporarily locked out (and somehow I managed to get the door open!!). All the hard wood is laid, the cabinet in the scraproom is up, the island is in, the closets have shelves, the mirrors are up in the bathrooms, all and all- things are coming together.....

Sorry- It's been awhile

2010-03-12T03:41:00.000-08:00

So- lots has happened.

1. They have begun painting.

2. More cabinets were stolen (sawed from the wall)

3. Mom found and rented an apartment in Milford.

4. The outside lights on the house have been put up.

5. The Banisters were stained.

6. Shelves were put up above the fireplace.

7. We've moved some of mom's stuff to her new apartment.

8. We have a close date.

9. Noah ate pizza for the first time (and liked it!!)

Yeah- you can say it's been busy.

Brr - It's cold

2010-02-23T18:11:00.000-08:00

It snowed here- lots. So, we've been inside mostly. This past weekend we did see the new house- all the woodwork (trim, etc) is up. Looks nice. And the fireplace is stoned. And while that is nice- seems that it is missing two shelves we asked to have put up. Hopefully this is an after thought- and they will get put up later- but we haven't heard from the builder yet. We also picked out our granite. Plus, all the ceramic tile is in. Looks awesome. Noah and I played outside on Monday- and just like his mommy- he is NOT a fan of snow or cold. Can't say I blame him. I also got some more layouts done this weekend, watched some Olympics and did some shopping. We hit the outlets and picked up some cute things for the house.

Happy Belated Valentine's Day

2010-02-15T06:11:00.000-08:00

We had a good weekend - I even scrapbooked a little. We also visited the house. They have almost all the doors hung, the moldings are going up, the coloumns in our bedroom are up and most of the vanities in the bathroom are in. The cabinets are all in the house (just not hung) and most of the windows are framed. It looks awesome and is really coming around. We had a low key Valentine's Day here. Noah got a new puppy (the battery-operated kind) and a Zhu Zhu Pet. Jim got a Guitar Hero that we've been playing. Jim and I had dinner last night at J.Alexzanders. On Friday Jim had sent me flowers, chocolates and a bear to work. Happy Valentine's Day

We made the news

2010-02-12T05:10:00.001-08:00

Well the new house did anyway. Is it some kind of omen when this appears in the paper before you even move in?

Baby- It's Cold Outside

2010-02-10T13:42:00.000-08:00

Our first big snow at home- so Noah and I tredged outside (after I got him dressed)- and played for about 15 minutes. He even made a snow angel (with a little help from mom!)

I need to keep up- Ann Arbor Hands On Museum and House Update

2010-02-08T04:19:00.000-08:00

Wow- I've been bad- REALLY BAD at this. So, here is goes- last Saturday (1/30) - We took Noah to the Ann Arbor Hands On Museum as they had a Bob the Builder Exhibit and he's really liking him right now. So - we took DH's car to the dealer and with my mom and met the inlaws at the museum. He had a blast going in and out of things and going up the ramp in the preschool area. It was a good change of pace for him. We did learn that we need to get him in groups with other kids as he has a little issue sharing and when you say "No" to him. Sunday- that week- we went to the house to meet another basement guy out there. When we got there- the doors were left open and the garage was partially open. We told the sales girl and found out later in the week that someone had actually broken in and stole the cabinets that were in the garage- TOTALLY crazy!! The week flew by- Chi- Chi's twin did arrive in the mail and he also got a new hamster (the Zhu Zhu pet kind). He learned to tell you "it's dead" if the battery has died in one of his animal friends. If you don't fix it right away he tells you "dead, dead". This weekend was busy as we babysat my neices on Saturday and Noah got to play with them. On Sunday we did manage to get to the house- they had primed the whole house- looks totally different - and then watched the Super Bowl with my brothers last night. I promise to be better- time just gets away from you! The one picture above is the hallway last week and the bottom one is the same hallway this weekend - time flies

Judy

Chi-Chi the Dog meets his demise

2010-01-25T06:49:00.000-08:00

Noah had this dog, he was a Chihuahua we found in the Orlando Airport on the way home from Disney. He made noise, barked, the works - but most of all Noah loved him. He thought he was the best. We noticed a few weeks ago that his little foot wouldnt move anymore and he grinded more than barked. I did some research and found a replacement Chi Chi at Amazon, and kept him in my shopping cart for the last few weeks. Well today I had to hit purchase, Chi-Chi finally went to battery operated dog heaven. So, RIP Chi-Chi- your replacement arrives on Thursday.

Resolutions to the Wayside

2010-01-20T04:32:00.000-08:00

So I had all these great ideas for the New Year - lose weight, scrap alot, keep the blog updated, etc. But sadly- I've failed at least the first one....and the third one....but the second- I got 9 layouts done this weekend- with the 7 from last time - thats 16 (basic math!) So- I am on my way to 250. This past weekend we did visit the house and nothing has changed-so no new pictures to show. I wish it would get done. Things in the current house are just falling apart- it started with the dishwasher and now the lock on the door is having issues (as in not closing). Last night Noah got a new chair for the table. He is now a big boy and has a booster seat to sit at the table with. It will help when we move and our chairs don't have wheels on them! But, he's doing good with it. He also carries all his electronic friends everywhere with him. They sit at the table with him and they play with him until he has to go to bed (which was NOT early last night)- and they sleep downstairs in a basket (mainly b/c he knows how to turn them all one and it will either freak me out at night OR get stuck in his hair). Either way- he loves 'em.

New Fish

2010-01-15T06:48:00.000-08:00

3 new fish friends arrived last night. A catfish bottom feeder, an orange one with a mickey mouse head on his fin, and a dalmation one. And yes, those are fish, not dogs. I guess once I figure out HOW to photograph them they will be stars here. We are scrapbooking tomorrow and on Sunday going to see the house- can't wait to see what they have done. Hope you all have a good weekend (and a long one for those off on Monday)
Judy

Brr....it's cold out

2010-01-11T10:04:00.000-08:00

And we have been warming up inside. Noah has played endlessly with all his new toys. Especially his Zhu Zhu Pet and his Elmo. He is also particularly found of Chi Chi the Taco Bell Dog and the Weasel (both of which he got before Christmas). These are his friends and from the time he gets up till the time he goes to bed they are on and with him all the time. We have gone through SO many batteries- in fact tomorrow I have to go to Costco to get more or the devestation would be of epic proportions if they didn't run. Daddy also brought him home a Cozy Coupe from Grandma and Grandpa's this weekend and he has had a blast riding it around the house. He takes his animal friends on rides and loves steering. It's hysterical. I, on the other hand have been scrapping. I've completed a total of 7 layouts this year- and we are cropping this weekend so as long as I don't play with all the new toys I might be able to get some stuff done. Here is one of my latest creations for the Disney Book. Also want to congratulate my friend Val as she is Guest Designer of the Month at Papertreyink.com. She won their contest you can read about it here http://grandma-extraordinaire.blogspot.com/. I am very excited for her and her stuff is truly amazing. We have also been packing stuff up around here-and cleaning and organizing. Stay Warm! Judy

2010- doesn't that sound like a space movie?

2010-01-04T04:26:00.000-08:00

I had to write it yesterday and it looked like something out of a space movie- aren't we supposed to be living in houses in the sky with flying cars by now? Guess the Jetson's had it wrong! We had a fabulous/relaxing last four days- even though we did not make it till midnight. We had Christmas at my brothers on Saturday - Noah got a Zhu zhu pet- its one feisty little hamster. But, he loves to chase after it. I guess thats all that matters. Noah also got to play with his cousins (okay second cousins- but whose counting?) and he loved running after them and chasing them. Hopefully in the next few weeks we can get him talking- he says some things- they arent clear yet- but we are getting there. I also scrapped this weekend- got a whole 4 pages down- but thats like one a day! Hopefully I can stay on track- I set a goal of 250 pages to be done and I should easily hit that since I have all of Disney to do yet.

Happy New Year!

2009-12-31T04:48:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!! We don't do anything big tonight- and I still need a run to Target and some wrapping for our last Christmas this weekend and wrap gifts- so those are the big plans!! Hope it's safe and happy for everyone.
My New Year's Resolution is to lose some weight, learn some patience, purge and clean the house, and use the scrapbook stuff I have.....
Happy New Year's Eve! And Happy New Years Day!!
Judy

Time to clean up (or in other words- reorganize!)

2009-12-28T18:19:00.000-08:00

We spent most of tonight sorting through Noah's "baby-ish toys" and cleaning up the family room. Countless times I heard Jim say - "he has too many" - but I guess my whole thought process is: 1) we didn't pay full price for any of them (most are used, garage sale, mom 2 mom sale items 2) He plays with most of them during the week 3) and - isn't being messy what childhood is all about? Sure- he doesn't clean right up after him- and SURE he loves to dump the ball pit or the blocks- but if we teach him that cleaning is fun- does it really matter? So- when Jim says that- I ignore him (and please don't ever tell him!) and figure- the smile on Noah's face is all that really matters.

We also had to clean because of the loot we got for Christmas (well- I should say Noah). He didn't get a ton- but he did get enough that forced tonights Great Purge. I also put away the DVD's we got (in alpha order- obsessive compulsive I know), and the Wii Games we accumulated the last week. I did get one from my in-laws that is the Family Game Night 2 (with operation)- I really want to play it- I just haven't had ANY time. I also have to upload and print Shutterfly pictures before my coupon codes run out.

I did score alot of nice things for Christmas - for instance- Jim bought me a ruby bracelet and a necklace, I got a cute Paris wallet from my in-laws, some DVD's I wanted, the rest of the 39 Clues Books (if you haven't read them I encourage you to go buy the first one- and you will likely be hooked), the Sherlock Holmes books (always wanted to check those out!), a bunch of Quickutz dies (they were $1.00 at the craft store up north), 2 Hobby Lobby gift card, a Visa Gift card and some assorted other things. We still have Christmas with my cousin, aunt and other brother this weekend. I still am trying to figure out what to get with the HL gift card. I was leaning toward a Slice, but now I think I might buy the 12 inch QK adapter for the revolution and the stuff for that.

The munchkin loved Christmas and scored some new shakey cars, the shake and go race track, some Tonka Cars, and this really cute Elmo Live that he absolutely adores. In fact I think if I let him sleep with it he would- but can you imagine how freaked out I would be if I heard Elmo at 3 am because he rolled over on it? So- Elmo stays safely downstairs.

Hope you all got everything you wanted- I know I did!

Judy

Merry Christmas!!

2009-12-24T12:24:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas!! This is my absolute favorite holiday!! I love it!! (and even better it lasts like two days!) We will have a quiet Christmas Eve and an even quieter Christmas letting Noah open his gifts from Santa and playing lots with all his new toys. When I was little we opened our gifts on Christmas Eve before we went to bed. All after Midnight mass. It was so much fun- I loved it. We all have our little traditions. Jim's family eats the Pillsbury Orange rolls on Christmas morning - so we have been making those the last few years. It's nice to let Noah see all the family traditions and even nice to have a white Christmas. SO- Merry Christmas!! Hope you get ALL that you want from YOUR list!

Happy Holiday's from the Great White North!

2009-12-22T12:42:00.000-08:00

So- so far- we've put the tree up (Friday Night)- played endless games of Mario Kart on the Wii - played Guitar Hero for the Wii (and I am HORRIBLE!!), watched Julie & Julia (excellent movie- Meryl Streep is phenominal!), watched HangOver (Hilarious!!), watched I Love You Beth Cooper (cute - not a run out and rent- but had cute moments), and watched the Ugly Truth (it was okay- definately a rental). We also let Noah play in the snow (he loved it!), ran to Walmart, and hit the Family Dollar Store and Glens for milk that I forgot to buy there- and ended up spendijng 4 dollars at the gas station. Tomorrow we might go into town and I might actually get to go to Arnie's - one of the best scrap stores up here! Also need to finish up wrapping the munchkin's presents. It snowed up here yesterday - so we have to brush the car off before heading to Walmart and Ponderosa (and maybe the outlets tonight!)....how sad does that sound? Jim also gave me this Scene It game for the Wii- so we've had some fun playing that too.

Off to finish reading my chapter from Vampire Diaries since everyone else is napping.

Happy Christmas!

Judy

New House Pics & A Visit with St. Nick

2009-12-12T18:48:00.000-08:00

These pictures are from the Saturday we got back in town. All the drywall was done and we had shutters. It's nice to see it all coming together.

Took kiddo today to see the Big Guy in Red at the Elks with my cousin and her son. He loved all the kids that were there and was pretty good at sitting on Santa's last. But, his favorite thing in the whole place was the inflatable decorations - how cute is that?

Watched Angels and Demons tonight too- maybe I can catch up on all the shows I wanted to see in the theaters but never did. Have some Christmas shopping to do tomorrow.

Happy Saturday Night!

Judy

Disney Day 6 - Hollywood Studios

2009-12-10T05:37:00.000-08:00

It will always be MGM Studios to me. Our last day at Disney was spent at Hollywood Studios. Jim, Mom and I headed over early- did some shopping in the stores and had breakfast at the Pastry shop. We also took Noah over to the Honey I Shrunk the Kids playground, saw Prince Caspian and the sets of the movie, met Sulley and Mike from Monster's Inc and then headed over to the Sci Fi for lunch. We were sat pretty quickly and had one of the rudest waitresses there. She did the same thing that the guy did the night before (ripping the salt and pepper shakers from Noah) and she even insisted that she charge us for Noah's juice (which is fine- but since we were on the dining plan and this was our last day- we hadnt been charged until then). Had a relatively LONG lunch - since she also happened to be the SLOWEST waitress too. After lunch, Noah fell asleep and we headed over to the Animation exhibit. Mom and I went through well Jim stayed out with Noah. Did some of the stores around there (and I was a bit irritated by the snack vendors over there since they all had trouble taking our cards for our snacks on the dining plan). When Noah woke up we went over to Indiana Jones and then headed back to see the characters of Up (which he loved-especially the doggy), then on to Toy Story Mania (we had fast-passed). We left pretty early and headed back. By then- we were SICK of Disney Counter Service food- so we took Noah swimming and opted for ordering Dominos (which was probably the best food we had all week). When we left the next day- we had issues with Magical Express (which I won't go into). Suffice to say- I was glad to finally get home. I have some new pictures of the house I will post soon (maybe this afternoon). I have to finish cleaning the house and I finally got Noah unpacked from Disney. Need to also do some Christmas shopping.

Have a good one! J

Disney Day 5

2009-12-09T11:21:00.000-08:00

Epcot!! Jim hates it- I like it! It turned out to be a pretty warm day too. We arrived at Epcot and rode Spaceship Earth - which actually has been revamped and now has this cute video in it- that starred Noah (it takes a picture of you in the car...oh never mind- just trust me- it was cute!). After waiting for the in-laws and not having much luck- Mom, Noah and I hit the gift shop- picking up a stuffed Pluto for Noah and a ball and some other miscellaneous stuff. We then decided to have lunch and start the countries. We started in Mexico and took the "new" boat ride- much better then the old one- actually has Donald in it- really cute! Then we were Norway bound - where we rode the boat - Noah was *okay* on this ride- certainly no match for the Carpets of Aladdin! Onward we walked to China and purchased some Peach Iced Tea (not bad- could have used less peachyness) and then Noah fell asleep. We meandered through the rest of the countries- stopping for fried ice cream in America and even taking in the Japenese Marketplace. Mom and I hit the shops in France and the shop at the edge of the World Showcase. By this time- Noah was up- and it was warm- and he was warm- so we changed him into a swim diaper and his shorts and some sandels and let him run through the splash pads. He had a blast. People stopped to watch him, take pictures of him, and one person even took a video of him. It certainly cooled him off- and I think it helped us get him moving again. After we changed him - we went to The Seas with Nemo and Friends. They brought back the old Living Seas ride- it was fun- really interesting and Noah loved all the fish. We hung out there for a little while, took him up to the observation decks to see the fish and stuff. When we headed out from there we went to the Land. We took the boat ride in the Land (not one of his favorites) and headed to the Garden Grill for dinner (meeting up with the in-laws there). We were sat in this booth- that faced the Living Seas boat ride. The restaurant actually rotates too. It was a tad bit annoying- as they stuck Noah's high chair in between two tables- so his back was actually to my in-laws for the entire dinner. Our waiter (Jeffrey)- also proceeded to take things (namely the Salt and Pepper Shakers) out of Noah's hands when we sat down- and he basically was rude to us the whole rest of the meal. We have a sneaking suspicion he didnt like the baby- cause he was nice to my in-laws- just not to Jim and I. Our characters were Mickey, Pluto, Chip and Dale. The food was decent- even though our service left much to be desired. When we left the Garden Grill (after a two hour meal) - my mom and I headed to the bus- we made it- and by the time they were done loading mom and the scooter- Jim made it to. We went back to the hotel- and Noah feel pretty much right asleep. Jim watched Noah and mom and I checked out Downtown Disney. It was raining a bit when we got back- but Jim and I still hit the hot tub- and then off to bed we went- ONE more day in Disney to remain!

Disney Day 4

2009-12-09T08:01:00.000-08:00

Disney Day 4 - Food Posioning Day

Woke up that morning with HORRIBLE food posioning. We had breakfast reservations at Tusker House in Animal Kingdom. I really didnt want to miss it- so we treked ourselves over there. We saw Mickey, Goofy, Donald and Daisy. Had breakfast- didnt eat anything- but the waitress still charged us a dining service (which I didnt think was right- given that I was sick). Rode the safari - Noah LOVED it- he loved the animals, the ride and everything. Walked through the Pandgoni (sp?) Forest Expedition- saw Gorillas and other Monkies. Then walked over to Asia to see the Tigers. Felt sick to my stomach- so left eveyone back at Animal Kingdom and Jim and I took Noah to the hotel for a nap. We napped for like 3 hours- and then took him down to the pool. He had a blast swimming. Met the in-laws for dinner (at the cafe in the hotel) and then got ready to go to Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party. The Magic Kingdom was all decorated- and I was feeling "marginally" better by then. Rode the Carpets (AGAIN) and took Noah to the Carosel and to ride Dumbo - another big favorite - also let him run around in the Pooh Corner. Rode Small World again and then headed back to the hotel. Jim and I did the hot tub again - and surprisingly I was starting to feel much better- but Jim was starting to get a cold.

Disney Day 3

2009-12-09T04:43:00.000-08:00

Day 3 - Monday

Headed to the Magic Kingdom. Ended up at the end of Main Street outside the Barber Shop waiting for Jim's sister. Noah had fun chasing the ducks and other birds. Took Noah over to the Carpets - AGAIN - and then on to Pirates. We fast passed Splash Mountain and ate at Pecos Bill (note to anyone who goes- DO NOT EAT THE CHICKEN WRAP!!). Rode Splash Mountain and mom got Noah to take a nap. Ate a funnel cake while he was napping and then headed over to Fantasyland. Almost got to see Pooh and Tigger but everytime we got in line they took the characters for their *break*. Rode the carousel and then let Noah run around in the little Pooh thing and then took him over to Toon Town to see Mickey. Saw Mickey and Minnie (Noah was awesome with them and the characters were really good- they even got on the ground next to him when he sat down). The line was a little long, but overall he did good. Walked through Tomorrowland. Met the in-laws at Crystal Palace for dinner- was VERY dissappointed. First, we checked in around 4 (our reservation was scheduled for 4:30- which they then told me was really 4:45) the lady at the podium told me it would be like 15 minutes. So at 4:30 - I went up to the door and asked. They said we were the next table. At 4:45 - I went back and asked AGAIN- they said- "This is your reservation time and we are only seating 4:25" - we got sat at 5:05 and our waiter didn't show up at the table until 5:15. He was horribly RUDE. In fact he basically ignored Noah the whole time. By this time- Noah had enough sitting around- we did manage to see Pooh, Tigger, Eyeore and Piglet. The food wasnt all that good and once again- the selection was horrible- but it was the first time we actually got Noah to eat something solid instead of french fries. After dinner, we went over to Buzz Lightyears Space Ranger Spin. We headed back towards Liberty Square to watch the Spectromagic Parade and the fireworks. People were very PUSHY and rude, plus it was way more crowded then I thought that it would be. Hung out a bit after the fireworks and then rode Haunted Mansion (since it was technically Disney Magic hours). Walked back up toward the Jungle Cruise, Jim and the in-laws rode it, and I took Noah on the Carpets (again!!). Headed back to the hotel- Noah falling asleep on the bus again and Jim and I hit the pool. We were going to do the Hot Tub- but I walked up on some people doing....you...know...what...in ...it - eew!!

Disney Day 2

2009-12-08T10:01:00.000-08:00

Bright and early on Sunday we hit Magic Kingdom. We had breakfast in the hotel and took the bus over to the park. It was a tad chilly (Noah had jeans on) and we all had sweatshirts. The first ride was the Jungle Cruise. Our guide was REALLY loud- so Noah wasn't a big fan. The second ride of the day were the Magic Carpets of Aladdin which Noah LOVED. It was his favorite ride while we were there. We also rode Pirates of the Carribbean (which he also wasnt a big fan of), took in Small World (which he liked) and the Carousel (another favorite of his). Also rode the tea cups. Then we headed back up Main Street and checked out Santa- Noah had a good smile (and it is definately the photo for the Christmas Card). Took a train ride and then headed over to the Contemporary for Chef Mickeys. Jim's sister was going to meet us there for dinner. Checked in and were sat pretty quick. His sister ended up meeting us and got to see Noah's first experience with the characters. He loved them. Thought that they were funny and most of all wanted to touch their noses. We saw: Minnie, Donald, Goofy, Pluto and Mickey. Noah's absolute favorite was Pluto, and even followed him around the restaurant. The food was okay- I didn't think that the selection was very good for a buffet, but we had a very good server. Left Contemporary on the bus and headed toward Hollywood Studios (formally MGM Studios) to check out Fantasmic since that was going to be our best opportunity to see it. Met the in-laws there- had a rather good seat in the handicap section because of mom's scooter. Noah liked parts of Fantasmic and then parts not so much. After walking out with the swarms of people for Fantasmic (we really should have waited till it cleared), we headed to under the Sorcers Hat (my father in-law and sister-in- law and her boyfriend rode Tower of Terror and then met us there). Headed back to the Osbourne Festival of Lights which danced to the musci (very nice), and then stopped so the in-laws could have dinner at ABC Commisary. Took Noah back to the hotel (he fell asleep in the boss) and then DH and I went to the pool, we even managed to take in the hot tub too.

Disney - Day 1

2009-12-08T09:48:00.000-08:00

Disney Day 1:

Arrived on Saturday - checked in- had some issues with the hotel having the corrected information. Also had to convince the lady that I really wanted a crib, not the pack and play in the room. Then signed for my box that was supposed to be delivered to the room with the rest of Noah's diapers and swim stuff. Headed to the room (which was really far from the lobby- given that we were checking in at 1pm). Let Noah explore the room and took some pics of the animals outside our room (we got the Svannah View at Animal Kingdom). Took a walk to the counter service restaurant by the pool, bought out mugs and some quick lunch for the starving little boy. Checked out the animals by the pool and the gift shop before heading back up to the room to chill out. Didn't end up getting the box till around 4:30 in the afternoon. Headed over to Animal Kingdom in the evening for our dinner at Rainforest Cafe. Sat by the elephants and enjoyed a relaxing dinner of BBQ chicken wrap (for me), Ribs (for Jim), Stir-Fry (for mom), and Chicken nuggets (for Noah). Headed back to the hotel- watched some TV- put Noah to bed and then Jim and I hit the pool.

Back from the overpriced, horrible customer service, most infant unfriendly place in the world - Disney!

2009-12-05T05:39:00.000-08:00

Now don't get me wrong, the whole trip wasn't HORRIBLE - but there were moments that made me NEVER want to step foot in a Disney Resort again.

I'll recap it soon- I promise- we had some fun times, like Noah LOVING all the characters, him playing in the water at EPCOT, and the Giraffes and animals on the safari.

The low parts included the horrible customer service at some of the restaurants (i.e. the two waiters/waitresses who ripped the salt and pepper shakers from Noah's hand), the Magical Express people who apparently thought it was okay to arrive by magical express but who truly wanted to make it difficult returning to the airport with an infant, to the people doing some "extracurricular activities" in the hot tub. Overall I found the customer service to be very disappointing. And let's not forgot the day I got food poisoning from Peco's Bill in the Magic Kingdom.

I was never MORE happy to get home and sleep in my OWN bed. I'm craving some home cooked meals - so I am off to the grocery store today and to Walmart. Might also check out the new house.

I'll follow up later!

Judy

Happy Pre-Thanksgiving and Off to see the Mouse

2009-11-25T05:26:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving. We are off to Indiana to see grandma and the rest of the Lucas clan. Then we leave to see the Mouse. So I leave you with this picture. Courtesy of the disney blog. Soon I will be looking at signs like that and well that just makes me happy!

Happy Thanksgiving!

Judy

Sad News

2009-11-23T16:15:00.001-08:00

We had our first Fish Casualty. The little yellowish orange one went to fish heaven....Guess we have to get a replacement fish when we get back home.

Missed a Week

2009-11-22T15:23:00.000-08:00

Last week - we had columns on the porch, some siding and a bunch of duct work started in the basement. This week - we have.....DRYWALL!!!! For the most part, the ceilings were all drywalled. Our bathroom was done, one of the bedrooms upstairs was done too. Some of the siding in the back was done too. And all the duct work in the basement was done. Nice to see progress.

Only a few more days till we go see the mouse...first we have a stop at Great Grandma's for Thanksgiving!

It came....

2009-11-11T07:19:00.000-08:00

We are now the proud owners of a new IMAC. Such a cute box....

November?? Already???

2009-11-09T07:24:00.000-08:00

I had one of those moments when I counted the weekends to Christmas and about fell over. Time is flying by so fast. This past weekend we had some of the MOST beautiful weather here- so we took a ride to check on the house. It's been two weeks since we were able to get there. But, what a difference two weeks make. The whole house is INSULATED - and it was so nice and warm in there....it was nice to see all that pink insulation (and see the true depth of it all). So nice....plus, all of our cabinets were the garage in their respective boxes. It was fun to see all that. We also saw some of the siding up there- there were two guys who were just setting up to finish one of the sides with the siding. The furnace was also in, as was the water heater and everything seemed to be getting ready for them to start the inside. They also poured the front porch- it was nice to see that completed too. We also have three new members of our family- they are nameless - although my mom suggested Huey, Dewey and Louie....not bad....we'll see. But for now, Noah LOVES them....

The Big Hallows Eve

2009-11-01T17:10:00.000-08:00

We had like maybe 50 kids. It was so cold. We didnt even take Noah out cause it was cold. We did however let him come to the door and help pass out candy and see all the kids. And he was a Pirate - I totally didn't get a great picture- but I did get a couple of cute ones.

Scrapped today too- got 3 layouts down...pretty good for a Sunday. now to settle in and watch Amazing Race....

Happy Weekend

Happy Halloween!!! (One Day Early)

2009-10-30T07:14:00.000-07:00

Happy Halloween!! Noah will be a pirate- tonight is pre picture taking and some more in the am. Might also run to Toys R Us to get some Christmas shopping done. Meeting a friend at Archivers at lunch. I "need" absolutely nothing. Last night I tried to reorganize a few things and it was a fiasco- I have WAY to much stuff - way to much patterned paper. Once I get it all sorted I will post pictures. I did close my stampin up party last night too- like I needed more stamps!
I'm gonna be better about posting everyday- I'm trying to challenge myself more
Happy Halloween!
Judy

Sweetest Day - oops we forgot!

2009-10-19T17:32:00.000-07:00

Yes, what you are reading is true- my usual romantic self and my usually romantic hubby forgot Sweetest Day....darn Hallmark Holiday!!

We went up north this weekend to pack away the patio furniture and to turn on the heat - and MY GOD it was freezing up there.

Took Noah to get his 18 month check up- he weighs a whopping 29 lbs and is 33 1/2 inches long - just call him gigantor! He's in the 90th percentile for both. Plus, he learned a new word today- Fish! Although it sounded more like sish.... But when you are pointing to the swimming thing in the water at the Doctors office - you can basically see what he was trying for.

Stopped at the house on Sunday- and we have bricks on the front! Yeah- all the way up!! Plus some garage doors, the outside wiring and our front staircase!!

Have a scrapbook crop with the Michigan girls this weekend - just have to get the house in order- lots of work to be done around here!

Judy

Weekend Update

2009-10-12T05:06:00.001-07:00

So- Friday night the in-laws moved and Jim went to help them. That left my mom, Noah and I to fend for ourselves- so what's a girl to do- but go to Hobby Lobby!!! Didn't buy much- picked up a few cute papers and some clearance stamps - I am toying with that 50% coupon at Micheals today though!

Went to the in-laws on Saturday to see their new digs- cute house- lots of land - and a pond- real cute area too- lots of horses. Stopped and saw the house- and we have the beginnings of brick work and all the electrical is wired (except for the cable, alarm and the phone). It was nice to still see progress.

We are going up north this weekend - so we will probably stop on the way home.

Veered off WW on Thursday and Friday and then Saturday wasnt a great day either. So- my mom and I made cabbage soup for this week- costs me about 1.5 pts - so hopefully I can make up ground this week - I'm debating about going back to the meetings- it worked the first time- but I did it with someone else- so it was nice to compare....

Happy Monday

Welcome to our Front Door

2009-10-07T05:16:00.000-07:00

I would like to say hello to our new front door. That's right- we have a front door, some electrical boxes and some miscellanous duct work from this weekend. We also let Noah walk around in it- his eyes were so lit up- he looked so happy. We also have bricks- so we figure that by this weekend- the outside will be pretty done. Oh! and they layed the septic field..

Also went jean shopping this weekend- and that sucked! Back on the old WW diet. So far- two days down- so good.

Tomorrow is our electrical walk through. Should be pretty fast-

Been windy here- so sleep was not in high quantities last night- maybe I can get a nap later!

Have a good one!

Judy

We have a well! And Need some Halloween Costume Ideas

2009-09-28T09:57:00.000-07:00

We took a ride on Sunday out to the property- we have a well, our fireplace is in and some of our bathtubs are in. Plus, there is some outside work going on preparing for the gutters and they laid the sewer piping downstairs. Fun stuff!

I also took Noah to look at Halloween Costumes, he hates anything on his head- so no fluffy chicken, skunk, etc. We even bought a Wags the dog one at a Mom2Mom sale and he hates that one too. We tried on a pirate one and he was okay with that. I'm thinking I might order an Elvis one- but first I am going to go to Party City tomorrow at lunch (after I search for the Home Sweet Home Album by 7 Gypsies and maybe a stop at the Salvation Army!) Have any ideas?

We also bought Noah a Ball Pit this weekend and he loves it! He is constantly in it. I even brought it upstairs so that he could play in it while I was working from home.

Noah also visited the Cider Mill for the first time- he saw some goats, pigs and chickens and laughed at everyone of them. He especially thought the goats were cool and even got to feed them a carrot.

I have to finish the current scrapbook page I am working on (Noah's first Bounce House Trip) but I've been playing around with a title and still havent found one I am loving. I was thinking "Bouncing Baby Boy" - but he's not really a Baby anymore- so I am stuck- any ideas?

Hope you have a great day- here are some of the pictures from this weekend!

Judy

Shingles, Soup, and Colds

2009-09-21T09:12:00.000-07:00

So-we all have the cold. Jim gave us all his cold from last weekend. So, we basically hung around the house

We did manage a trip to house on Sunday- had to go pay for some shelves over the fireplace- and we were pleasantly surprised to find all the windows and the shingles on the house. we even had basement steps- so we could walk down and see how big the basement is really gonna be.

Stopped at Best Buy on the way home and picked up a 4gb SD card for the Disney trip- plus Jim wanted to look at tv's. We also made veggie soup and chicken soup for this week- back to the old diet for me.

The weather cooperated and Noah got to play outside alot. I think he will like the new house, lost of places to run.

Have to start cleaning the basement for my crop in October- not a lot of weekends left.

Have a good one!

Judy

Busy Weekend & A Roof!

2009-09-14T11:53:00.000-07:00

We had our first (and only) garage sale in this house this past weekend. We made a little over $300.00 - which is good. I couldn't believe the people who were out for something **FREE** and wanted to bargain something down from 10 bucks to 1 dollar. And then at the very end- we placed some stuff by the curb and said "free" - within 10 minutes it was all gone- crazy!!

We also had dinner with Jim's parents for his birthday at Outback- celebrated with some cake and had some good family time. Yesterday, even thought Jim was battling a sore throat (probably from all his yelling during the Michigan/Notre Dame Game), we took a ride to the house- and saw.....a ROOF!!!!

We walked through and even took Noah in to see his new room...

So cool!

Wonderful Labor Day Weekend & A Second Floor

2009-09-08T10:12:00.000-07:00

We have a second floor! And we had an awesome labor day weekend up north! It was good to be around family, let Noah play outside and enjoy the peace and quiet up there.

Stopped on the way home on Monday to check the progress. We have a second floor and lots of boards holding that up. We also have all the rooms blocked off downstairs-pretty cool without the drywall and windows.

Cleaning out the house for our subdivision garage sale this weekend. We have a ton of stuff that we can get rid of. I will be so happy to move and clean more stuff out. Here is a photo of Noah from over the weekend and the second floor. It's rained here all day- so hopefully by this weekend I might have a roof.

We don't just have floors- we have walls!!!

2009-08-30T11:08:00.000-07:00

Spent the week cleaning, etc- was nice to get some things organized- and I scrapped (exactly two pages)- but it's a start.

Last night we went to my neice's birthday dinner at Olive Garden and then took a ride out to the property- fully expecting a basement floor- nothing else - but we were SHOCKED to see not only a floor- but WALLS of the mainfloor. Rough walls- but walls still.....

Kiddo is napping right now and then once he wakes up we will brave the cold and wind to head to a picnic with my sister-in-law and her family.

What a Great Weekend

2009-08-17T13:35:00.000-07:00

What an awesome weekend.

Friday we took Noah to the Wiggles. He loved it- had alot of fun. Loved when they sang "Big Red Car" - he had a minor meltdown at the end- but after 1.5 hours for a 16 month old sitting still- I think I can deal with that!

Saturday- Jim and I took a ride to see our property- and what do you know- we have a FOUNDATION!!! Yep- a beutiful concrete foundation!!

And Saturday afternoon we set up Noah's little pool and out in the water our little fish went. He had a blast swimming and splashing. Kept him cool & occupied- and for Mommy that is a good thing!!

Hope you all had a good weekend too!

Judy

Wiggles Live!!

2009-08-14T07:50:00.000-07:00

We are off to see the Wiggles today- you know that annoyingly cute Austrialian foursome-the Beatles for little kids...

So, Noah is going to his VERY FIRST concert- and I will be there camera in hand. I'm so excited to go (okay- I'm convincing myself here)- but you know, I probably know EVERY word by heart.

Hopefully my little boy will be very excited with his little adventure this afternoon.

We have a Hole!!

2009-08-10T11:01:00.000-07:00

We have a hole!! And in less than a year we will have a new house...Yep- a new house!! Brand spanking new- I cannot wait!!

Things have been busy around here- Noah has been busy learning to climb on EVERYTHING. He's particularly found of this rocking horse that we got from my cousin before he was even born.

Gotta put away the scrapbook stuff from this weekend that is over taking the upstairs. Someday soon I hope to actually post that stuff!!!

Have a great Monday!

Judy & Noah

One Boring Weekend and One Busy Monday

2009-07-21T05:11:00.000-07:00

We really didn't do much this weekend- in fact chalk it up to laziness on my part, but we mostly stuck around the house. Noah did visit Uncle Terry and Aunt Jackie's so that we could go see Harry Potter...which wasn't as bad as I thought it was going to be. We also did some grocery shopping and watched the Blue Angels fly over the house.

Yesterday Noah had his 15 month checkup and shots. I never understood why they have to give them SO many shots. He had 3 yesterday - and they are so expensive- especially since on top of the cost of the shot- the Dr's office bills my insurance $128.00 just for the 15 minute office visit! Highway Robbery!!! He slept most of the afternoon and I was able to get a lot of stuff done before a quick run to Target, some Barbequing and then some chilling around the house. I did manage to scrapbook a little last night too - and the most exciting part - the live-in nephew started moving out yesterday!! So happy to get my basement back!!

Happy Tuesday!

A New Beginning

2009-07-15T17:31:00.000-07:00

So my first post- seems like I can DO this.

My goal is to document my little boys life so that I can remember our daily activities-

Today Noah was crabby and whiney. Usually he is a big fan of spending a day at home with mommy- but today nothing made him happy- not the Wiggles, not the cats, not Mamma Mia!.

He even went to bed early.....

Maybe tomorrow he will wake up on the right side of the crib.