Ann's Christmas Party

Last night I got to be Ann's date at her work Christmas party. This is the third time I've gotten to go and it's always a fun event. It's fun because it's not your typical party where you eat dinner and then stand around socializing.

When you first arrive it's drinks and appetizers, then dinner and dessert. After dinner they give away door prizes to the employees (Ann didn't win). After that is when the real fun began. This year they had a Wii and an Xbox set up. On the Wii you got to play Mario Kart and on the Xbox you got to play Rock Band. You play with three other people and the top two finishers win gift cards. It's really good odds. I did ok on Mario Kart but HORRIBLE on Rock Band. I played the drums and only got a 28% - really bad.

Throughout the evening they also gave away two Wii's to the employees in a random drawing. Last year Ann won one of the Wii's. This year she didn't win one but that's ok. I think people would have been a bit annoyed with her if she did, especially since the year before at her Christmas Party I won a 26" flat screen tv.

They also had two caricature artists and a photo booth to take your picture. I didn't get my picture taken this year - just wasn't feeling it.

Off to work

It's now 10pm and I'm just getting ready to go to work. I hate that it's 10pm and I'm just now starting my work. It was 8pm before I got both of the kids into bed. Then I had to watch tonight's Survivor episode (glad Shambo is gone but Russell should have been voted off a LONG time ago!). Then I had to clean out my inbox. It drives me crazy when I have work to do and my inbox is full. I just finished that and decided to post a quick blog entry.

I meant to post one last night and tell about my day yesterday. Brett had his Christmas program and was completely adorable. He had been telling us for quite a while that he was going to sing super duper loud and he did. You could tell he was singing as loud as his little body would let him. All the kids were very cute. That was the most important part of my day yesterday.

But another interesting part of my day yesterday was when I met the 2008 HGTV Design Star winner - Jennifer Bertrand. I was at Home Goods/Marshall's and she was right behind me in line. I thought for a minute about whether or not I wanted to say anything to her but I decided that I wanted to let her know that I supported her and wish her show would have taken off. So I talked to her and she was so nice and friendly. She took the time to tell me about her son and what's going on with him and thanked me for recognizing her. Very nice woman.

Hopefully I'll post some new pictures soon. I've still got several presents I need to buy and wrap!!!! I also need to get started on my cinnamon rolls - ackkk!!! So it's going to be a busy week. Hopefully I won't be up too late working. Wish me luck!

Stupid Christmas Song

I just put Claire down for her nap and thought I'd write a quick blog entry. I was going to write a blog entry yesterday but never got around to it. I wanted to comment on this awful Christmas song (if that's what you'd call it) I heard on the radio. It was a version of The 12 Days of Christmas but was so mixed up with other songs it was very painful to listen to. Normally I would have changed the station but I wanted to hear who sang the song. It's by a group called Straight, No Chaser. Apparently they're a college band and have become quite popular with this stupid song. The DJ on the radio said it's the most requested song this year. I have NO IDEA why. I just sat there thinking how awful it was - for example, it starts out with the First Day of Christmas, then jumps to the 5th day, then to the 8th, then adds in some other Christmas songs, then the dreidel song, then a pop song (I can't remember the song's name sorry!). Anyway, it's pretty bad. Just amazing that people would like that junk.

And all this after yesterday I was finally in the Christmas spirit. I watched a little bit of "Holiday Inn" and "White Christmas" the night before (two of my favorite Christmas movies) and was all geared up for the season. I got a TON of shopping done at Target while Brett was at school and then that stupid song. But, it didn't ruin my mood. Just made me shake my head.

Now I'm off to frost and decorate cookies with Brett for his Christmas program tomorrow night. This should be interesting.

Laundry, Ugh!

Laundry isn't really that bad. But when you wait until you have practically EVERY piece of laundry in your house to wash, it becomes a nightmare. I just spent time in my laundry room - folding a batch of towels, putting in Brett's second load of laundry (which included pretreating practically every shirt and pair of pants!) and then I walked upstairs and saw the SECOND BASKET of his dirty clothes still to wash! UGHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH.

Part of my problem with Brett's clothes is that I have a matching pair of pants for each shirt he has. So that means that every day he puts on a new pair of pants and a shirt. I know this is a lot, but I buy his clothes at consignment sales and garage sales. And, it makes matching his outfits a lot easier for everyone in our family. He just picks out an outfit in the morning and puts it on. No need to figure out if the shirt matches the pants or if the jeans are clean, etc. So that's part of the problem. But, I'm not changing that. At least not now. Although it does take me a while to put his clothes on hangars and match up outfits. But in the long run I think it's worth it.

The biggest problem with my laundry situation is just finding the time to do the laundry. It's hard to put a load in when Claire's awake. But why I can't do it when she's napping or at night? That's a good question. I'll have to think about that one.

Last night as I was just finishing up Lance and I's laundry, he came into the bedroom and magically conjured up an ENTIRE BASKET worth of dirty clothes for me to wash! I just looked at him as he put them into the hamper. I had just finished folding the clothes and thought I was done for the night. He knew I wasn't happy.

I think I need to make doing the laundry more often, or coming up with a better system my New Year's Resolution. Because right now I'm really tired of all the piles of laundry in my house. Off to fold some clothes.

The couches are here!

Ok, I have to admit that I didn't think this day was going to happen. But it did. My couches arrived just now.

It's wierd having them in the room. Makes a big difference. Need new throw pillows though. And new end tables. But that will have to wait unitl next year. For now, we can finally sit and enjoy our new family room!

Christmas Cards & IKEA

So I should really be doing my laundry right now but now that my computer is in a more comfortable spot, I'm sitting at it rather than doing my chores. What's a girl to do?

What might you ask am I doing instead of laundry? Working on my Christmas card! I finally got an idea. So glad about that. It's very simple this year - all digital. Which, with two kids now is what I need. I was trying to think of something fun and clever like I've done in years past but couldn't think of anything really neat. So, simple it will be. I hope however that people still find it cute and clever. And sorry, no hints. I like for people to get my card in the mail and be surprised. I LOVE getting Christmas cards and seeing everyone's family pictures on them (hint, hint). I hope everyone I send mine to feels the same way!

Now, after more searching the internet for computer tables and scrapbooking tables I found IKEA. I have several friends that have often said, "We need an IKEA in Kansas." After looking at their website, I totally understand why. They have so many cool products for CHEAP. I found a really cool table that I think I'm going to get. I'm just trying to decide whether to get one or two of them. And the best part - the table is only $140! http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/S19849516 They have a really cool organizational cube system that I'd love to get but the shipping for it would be $300 so that's out. http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/20116071 And they have a really cute chair but it's only sold in stores. http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/80121649 I'm tempted to drive to Chicago (where the closest IKEA is located) to buy these things. Ok, so I won't but I'm tempted. If I could fit the kids and the furniture I probably would. But either Lance or I would have to go alone and I don't want to do that! So maybe I'll order the table and see how that goes. Maybe a trip wouldn't be such a bad idea . . .

A desk, a scrapbooking table and two whiny kids

Ok, just put Claire down for her nap. I also made Brett lay down today. We ran errands after I picked him up from school today and he has been so grouchy all day. He got mad at the store because I wouldn't let him get anything. He kept telling me - "I'll be happy if you let me get this." Gotta love that. But, I held firm and didn't let him get anything. He fell asleep on the drive home. Both kids did. So I let them sleep for a bit until Claire woke up. Then I got Brett up and he started crying. He came inside and wouldn't stop so I told him he needed to lay down. Oh boy. Even more crying.

Now I'm taking a few minutes to look for a desk and a scrapbooking table for my new space. I was using the built-in hallway desk but that just wasn't fitting my needs. I need a lot of space when I work and the tiny hall desk was way too small for me. Plus there was very little light and anytime I coughed or made any sort of noise, it would wake Claire up. So now I'm in the spare bedroom, trying to figure out how to make this space work. Lance's computer is in here too. He's also looking for a desk. Right now both our computers are on 4-ft tables. I'd like a 6-ft desk or something like that. Just something BIGGER. As for the scrapbooking table, I saw the coolest thing when searching the internet: http://www.theoriginalscrapbox.com/catalog/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=72&Itemid=95

It's on backorder so that'll give me time to think about it and save up for it if I really want it.

What I REALLY want is this modular system from Pottery Barn. It's the "Bedford Collection" and you can choose the parts you want to make your own custom desk. This is what I REALLY, REALLY want. And Lance did say that I get to make my scrapbooking room "right" in the new house. He had no idea what he was telling me. Of course, he'd have to work from now until next Christmas to pay for it! I guess I should buy a lottery ticket. Here's a look at it: http://www.potterybarn.com/products/build-your-own-bedford-home-office-system-components/?pkey=cdesks-home-office

Just in case anyone wins the lottery and is feeling generous I'll let you know what I want so you don't have to ask me when you want to buy it for me! I want a corner desk with the CPU cabinet, a small desktop (with a 3-drawer cabinet), then another corner desk, and two rectangular desktops (with a 2-drawer and 3-drawer cabinet each). I'd also like the smart corner desk hutch and the smart desk hutch (these go on top of the desks for a bit more storage space). And a 3x3 bookshelf. And a lateral file cabinet with two tier shelf on top. And the desktop protectors. Really, if you win the lottery this isn't too much for you to get me my dream room. Just under $5000.00. That's all.

Crazy isn't it? Just to get the corner desk it's $700.00. I can't spend $700 on a desk! So I'd better keep looking. Maybe Big Lots will have something . . .

The time change

Why do we have to have a time change? Why can't it just be the same time (preferably Daylight Savings Time) all year? I had just gotten Claire into a good schedule on going to sleep and waking up and then the time change. It's awful. Both of my kids can't figure out when they're supposed to be asleep and when they're supposed to be awake. It's driving me crazy! I know a lot of people like the time change because they get an extra hour of sleep. Not so when you have two little ones. Oh well. I guess we'll adjust. And as soon as that happens it will be Daylight Savings Time again!

(October pictures are up: http://home.everestkc.net/nrjordan/pictures/oct2009/index.htm!)

New Photos are Up

I've just added some new photos to my website. So if you check my blog but don't check my site, check it out. I've added June - Sept photos. http://home.everestkc.net/nrjordan/pictures

It's been a VERY long time

Ok, so two months is quite ridiculous. But, as you know I moved into a new house and am just now getting settled. The past two months have been SO busy. Claire's becoming a lot more active, Brett's school is taking up more of my time, and the house needs a lot of TLC.

Just today I got the "We've Moved" announcements mailed and just yesterday I finally decorated for Halloween. Lance said "I can't believe you're decorating with only a week until Halloween." I said, "At least I'm doing it." Brett was super excited to help and we covered the house, both inside and out, with cobwebs. He had fun picking up all the decorations, inspecting them, checking to see what they did, etc. Claire had fun trying to grab them too.

Well, that's all for now. I need to add some new pictures of the kids onto the website. Since the playoffs are over, I can spend some time doing that tonight. Gotta get it done before the World Series starts Wednesday night - go Phillies!

Less than a week . . .

Ok, so it's so very weird that we have less than a week left in our house. This whole process has been so long, but also gone by very quickly.

And the whole thing is bittersweet. I have loved our house. From the moment I walked into it for the first time I loved it. I've had so much fun making it ours, decorating the rooms, working on the yard (that's Lance's part) but we just need a bit more space. I'm very excited about the new house but also sad to leave this one.

We're 99% packed - it's pretty bare bones around here. Poor Brett only has a basket of toys to play with. But, it's kinda good for him. He's playing with some toys he hasn't played with in a while - his Elmo's Restaurant, his cars, and a few other things that are in the basket. I'm actually working on cleaning now. As I finish a room, as best it can be, I'm cleaning - drawers, shelves, vacuuming. The kitchen is packed - I just need to clean the hardwoods. The playroom is packed - just need to vacuum. Brett and Claire's rooms are packed until moving day - I'll put one box in each room for all the miscellaneous things that need to be left out until Saturday. Our room is packed - I have my box sitting on my sink ready to have the lid put on it. I still need to clean the bathrooms - anyone up for that job? But other than that we're ready!

Stay tuned for the housewarming invites. They'll be in the moving announcements that will arrive shortly after we move. If you live out of town, I won't be sending you a housewarming but email me if you want one anyway!

Now, back to work!

We're moving!

Life has been busy lately. I know I've neglected the blog but I've had a lot going on. And honestly, the last thing I want to do with free time is spend it on the computer.

We're getting ready to move in less than two weeks! So excited but also a bit sad. The house we've called home for the past six years is not going to be ours in 12 days. The house we've spent so much time in. The only home our children have ever known. The place where we've made such good friends. It makes me very sad and nervous to move.

But, I have to keep telling myself that it's the right decision. The highway in our backyard is getting busier every day and the great room is getting smaller every day. Two reasons to move right there.

In case you haven't seen the house, here's the link to the pictures:

http://tours.imagemaker360.com/Viewer/thumbnailpopup.asp?id=97194&mediaID=725532&clickback=1

Hopefull once we move I'll be able to get back into a routine and take time to post my POTD. I really like the idea of posting it here to have as a reminder.

Ok, I'm off to blow dry my hair. Claire is sleeping, Brett is watching Dragon Tales and eating a snack. I don't have a ton of time. Can't spend it on the pc!

The Perfect Pool Day

June 28, 2009 POTD

As I'm cleaning up dinner Lance, Brett and Magnus are outside playing.  I'm thinking about how I haven't taken any pictures yet today and am wondering what I should shoot for my picture of the day.  I wasn't even done thinking and Lance tapped on the window and pointed up.  I grabbed the camera and went outside.  Brett was screaming "It's a hot air balloon, there's fire." and thus my POTD!

June 27, 2009 POTD

Talk about a busy day!  We went to the carnival at Grandma & Grandpa's subdivision in the morning.  Since Daddy's foot is hurt, we got out of the house a lot later than we were expecting too.  On top of that, we had a showing from 12:30pm to 1:30pm so everything had to be nice and tidy before we left.  After the carnival we ate lunch at Grandma & Grandpa's.  Uncle Scott, Andrea and Elise came too.  Then it was a quick trick home to grab Brett's stuff so he could spend the night at Aunt Annie's.  Aunt Annie also babysat Claire so I could go scrapbooking with my friends!  Busy, busy HOT day.  It was fun but so glad it's over.

My ADORABLE kids

 

Blogging just got easier

Ok, so sometimes I'm a little slow.  I was playing around in my blog today and noticed something that said update your blog via email or something like that.  So I tried it and it works!  I can update my blog simply by typing an email.  I don't have to go to my page and login and then do all that fancy stuff!  I'm so excited.  Maybe now I'll blog more often.  Well, ok, so maybe not but at least this is a lot easier!

 

And as a bonus, a picture of Ann on a motorcycle!

June 26, 2009 POTD

When Brett woke up this morning, he wasn't himself. He wasn't himself yesterday either. I think he might be getting sick so I told him we could have a lazy day today. We went to McDonald's for breakfast (cinnamelts - shhh don't tell daddy!) and got two Redbox movies to watch (Open Season 2 & Diego - it was slim pickins). Brett loves getting a Redbox movie and loves taking the movie out of the machine.

June 25, 2009 POTD

Both of the kids had just woken up from their naps. I had to tidy up the house before we had to leave for yet more showings. Brett was more than happy to get to watch a movie "Bolt". As you can see Claire enjoyed the movie too.

June 24, 2009 POTD

We were going to go to the pool but this thunderstorm came on very quickly. So Brett got to play outside in the "rain" and with the hose until the thunderstorm began.

June 23, 2009 POTD

Finally Brett's birthday invitations are done! A party at the zoo for my little monkey! How perfect is that?

June 22, 2009 POTD

Yet another showing, so yet another evening at Aunt Annie's. Brett and Magnus had fun playing with Missy and Millie.

June 21, 2009 POTD

Claire's baptism. Aunt Annie and Aunt Sue Sue are her godmothers, Uncle Scott is her godfather. She only cried when Fr. Mulhearn got some water in her eyes.

Father's Day!

June 20, 2009 POTD

Brett, Claire, Magnus and I went to Aunt Annie's house because we had showings from 10am until 3:30pm. Aunt Annie didn't have her car because it was getting new brakes and a new timing belt. Daddy had to go to work (on a Saturday) to finish up some things on a case he was working on. When he was done, he came over to Aunt Annie's and she took a family photo (you can just barely see Magnus at the bottom of the picture). This was a very long day and by the time we got home in the evening, we were all very worn out.

June 18 & 19, 2009 POTD

Yep, no POTD from the 18th or 19th. Once again, I have no idea why not. Life just gets busy.

Although, the 18th was bunco for me. I didn't win but Aunt Annie got to come (after months of not being able to come from working at Sam's Club) and won. I can't remember the exact amount but I think it was $35.00!

The 19th was a Friday and we celebrated June birthdays at Friday Night Dinner. I should have taken my camera inside but didn't. Aunt Annie joined us for dessert because she had to drop her car off in Kingsville, MO (close to Lee's Summit) and then we took her home afterwards.

June 17, 2009 POTD

When Lance got home from work, I grabbed the camera to take a picture of Claire in her little outfit. I loved the puffy sleeves on it. Although it's way too big on her, she still looked adorable. Baby girl wasn't happy with the idea of having her picture taken and went down for a nap as soon as I was done!

Since June 17th is my friend Casey's birthday, I took her little boy Calen to lunch so she could have some free time on her special day. There's just something about pictures at a fast food restaurant that I love. The boys are so cute together. They both got ice cream cones for dessert.

June 16, 2009 POTD

Brett's first lightning bug. This is right before he released it (he had caught it the night before).

June 15, 2009 POTD

We went to TCBY as a family (Magnus too). We ate our frozen yogurt outside and I happened to snap this picture of Claire. Although there were some funnier pictures from this day, I thought that this picture of my baby girl was so sweet.

June 14, 2009 POTD

We went to the Friends of the Zoo "picnic" with Grandma and Grandpa. It was nice because we got to stay at the zoo until 8pm. It was a very nice day and we got to ride the tram, train and boat for FREE! Poor Daddy had to work.

June 12, 2009 POTD

Although this was Daddy's second softball game, it was our first of the season. (Claire's first ever!) Brett wore his baseball shirt (and hat too although it's not in the picture). He also brought his ballpark toys that he plays with while Daddy is playing softball (that's his truck in the picture).

We went to McDonald's to celebrate Hannah's (in the pink) birthday. The kids sat at their own table while the mommies sat at their own. After eating, the kids went to play in the play place and had a blast.

June 11, 2009 POTD

Grammy and Aunt Sue Sue came over to see the kids.

June 10, 2009 POTD

Claire's first "solid" food. This is in fact her first bite! She doesn't look like she's too sure of what's going on but she really enjoyed her rice cereal. And boy did she get messy!

June 9, 2009 POTD

We went to On the Border for lunch with Aunt Annie (hey there was a showing so we had to be out the house - I couldn't help it!). It was pouring down rain and we all got soaked. But Brett sure did enjoy his ice cream!

June 8, 2009 POTD

Brett's first day of "Summer School". He was really scared (because he had a new teacher) so I told him I'd take his picture with his friends, David and Matthew. That made him feel better and then it was ok. The kid just doesn't like change. Hmmmm, sounds familiar.

June 7, 2009 POTD

Just spending some time at Aunt Annie's during a showing. All of us, including Aunt Annie, were in her spare bedroom. Aunt Annie and I were looking on the computer (and taking pictures of course!).

June 4, 5, 6 POTD

There are no POTD's for June 4th, 5th and 6th. I don't know why I didn't take pictures these days. Sometimes I just forget. So, if you'll notice I have duplicate photos on a few of the other days to take up the space in my scrapbook! That works right?

June 3, 2009 POTD

Brett, Claire, Magnus and I all went over to my friend Jen's house to watch her boys so she could go to a doctor's appt and get her hair cut. This picture is of the boys eating lunch (hot dog for Brett, chicken nuggets for Matthew). They know when I get out the camera they might as well smile and say "cheese" because I'm not putting the camera away until I get my picture!

The boys play really well together and always have a lot of fun. I think they play nicer at Jen's house than they do at mine. Not sure if it's because she has more space or what. The boys especially liked playing with Magnus. He loved being in a new place and that cracked them up. Claire didn't have a good day over there at all. She was not happy that she didn't get to nap at home, in her bed. So, she cried and fussed most of the time.

June 2, 2009 POTD

While David's mom Sally cleaned the house, Brett, Claire, David, Bennett and Bennett's mom Julie and I all went to the pool. We ate lunch at the pool then spent time going from baby pool to big pool. The boys had fun with all their stuff and Claire did ok just sitting in her car seat. She didn't get in the pool although she had her swimming suit on. She just had to look the part.

June 1, 2009 POTD

Hannah & Hailey Gabrielson came over to play with Brett while their mom had a doctor's appointment. In order to keep the house clean we played outside for most of the time. The kids had a lot of fun playing on the swing set and were more than happy to pose for a picture! And of course Magnus couldn't be left out of the action!

Since we had a showing during dinner time we went to dinner (Zio's) with Grammy and Aunt Annie. Afterwards Daddy and Claire went home and the rest of us went to Cold Stone Creamery to get ICE CREAM! Brett wanted to eat outside so we did!

Pictures of the Day(s)

Ok, so I'm not so good at this blogging thing anymore. Not with two kids. Something has to give right? So, I think I've decided to just post my picture of the day (POTD) along with the journal description for it. So, hopefully at the end of the day I'll bring my memory card upstairs, get my POTD off the computer and post it on my blog. So, ideally I'll have something new on my blog every day. At least that's the plan. I've gone through and found my POTD for all my June days so far. I will put them into their own posts so that I can be a bit more organized! Enjoy!

It's been a long time

Ok, so I haven't blogged in a month. I just haven't had time. Between work and two children, Lance and I have decided to add another thing to our plates - we've decided to put our house on the market. Crazy huh? We were both joking about it one day and then finally started seriously thinking about it and decided that now is the best time to do it. So, we've been working really hard trying to get our house "show ready". We've done a lot of painting, both inside and out. We've reorganized and decluttered. We're hoping to list it soon, and are going into this with the idea that if it doesn't sell for what we want it to sell for, we'll just stay since we do love the house, just need more space!

As I type, there are four children sleeping in my house. Ok, not all four are sleeping. Two are - the littlest two. The oldest (Brett and his little friend) are moving back and forth between rooms. Brett is sleeping in Claire's room on the floor and I heard whispering on the monitor. When I went into the room his little friend was in Claire's bed and Brett was quick to tattle on her. I'm watching my girlfriend's two little girls because she is having shoulder surgery today. One is in my room actually sleeping, Claire is in her swing sleeping, Brett is in Claire's room (not sleeping) and the other little girl is in Brett's room (not sleeping). I was eating my lunch but now that I'm done I need to stay upstairs to monitor the little ones and make sure they get some sleep! My house is so quiet at the moment, it's making me sleepy! I wish I could squeeze a nap in today. But, I guess I have to be the adult!

I've got some super cute pictures of the kids I need to post sometime. It might take a while though.

Ready for bed

Ok, so Claire finally did fall asleep and nap for about 20 minutes. It's a start. I managed to squeeze the laundry in throughout the afternoon. Aunt Annie came over for dinner - Brett was SO excited. And now Claire is sleeping in her bedroom tonight for the first time at night. I'm a little sad. Okay, a lot sad. However, I need to do it for me and for her. I'm hoping she will sleep better in her crib and her room. And I'm able to get some things done (like laundry) that I haven't been able to do in the evenings because she's been in our bedroom sleeping.

So I'm off to bed now. And yes, I'm going to check in on Baby Girl one last time before I crawl into bed (with the monitor turned up VERY loud). Good night.

Ready to hear me tweet?

Ok, so I've finally joined Twitter. We'll see how long this lasts. But, I thought it was a good way to update my blog since I haven't been on it in so long! You can follow my tweets on the sidebar. I'm off to do some chores before I pick up Brett. Maybe one day I'll post new photos of the kids!

Another post

Look at how cute Claire is! Her Grammy bought her this outfit (at least I think it was Grammy -might have been Aunt Sue Sue - they both buy her TONS of clothes, sometimes it's hard to remember who bought what!). She's finally getting big enough to wear her 0-3 month clothes. Although there are many outfits that are still too big! I like this outfit because it has a little tutu but is still pants so she can wear it without tights!



Today I dressed her in a dress for the first time:

This picture doesn't do her justice. She was simply ADORABLE. Aunt Annie took some pictures with her camera of baby girl today so I'll need to get those from her. Brett looks super cute though!

You might notice two blogs in one day. Amazing right? I'm writing this one right now trying not to pay too much attention to the KU game. They are leading by only 3 points with 2:15 minutes to go! Too close for me! (And now Lance is screaming at the tv - "are you kidding me? it's a charge!").

Not ready for the snow!

Ughh . . .

I thought winter was DONE and Spring was finally here. But apparently not. "They" are predicting snow - lots of snow. I'm not happy about this. I don't like the cold and really don't like the mucky slush that is produced on the streets and in parking lots after a it starts to melt. Brett is extremely excited at the mention of snow and I'm sure Lance is too (although now that we no longer have the Tahoe I'm wondering if he's still excited?).

And I just got an email from Brett's soccer league that is supposed to start Sunday saying that his game has been cancelled and "per league policy we will not make up the game". Really? I paid for the game but it's not going to be made up? Not happy with this. Not at all.

So I guess we'll see if the snow really comes like "they" are claiming it will. I should make a trip to the grocery store just in case . . .

Lots of crying but little sleeping

Ok, so having two kids is tough. Especially when they don't want to sleep and cry a lot. Both my three-year-old and seven-week-old are having troubles with both these areas. Brett is having trouble sleeping at night, Claire all the time. Brett cries throughout the day for various reasons, so does Claire. Now that I think about it, there are lots of things that both are doing right now. Brett likes to spit up if he doesn't like a food (spit it out or gag) and Claire spits up all throughout the day. Bathroom accidents - I don't think I really need to elaborate on that one.

Ok, so I'm rambling. But you know that pregnancy kills brain cells and I think being pregnant with Claire killed off a few more than normal. I'm super tired as usual and have tons of work to complete, as usual. But, I'm headed off to bed because if I don't get some sleep I'll be super cranky tomorrow. Plus, it's 11pm right now so I have about an hour or so before Claire wakes up to eat around midnight, then 4am, and then at 6am. So goodnight.

I smell like spit up

Claire is a sleep fighter. She cries like mad when she's really tired. It can be difficult at times but most of the time I win the battle and manage to quiet her down by holding and rocking her to sleep. Today though, she didn't want to fall asleep and quite frankly, I am so tired that I caved and nursed her (although I knew it wasn't time for her to eat). But, when you're sleep deprived, sometimes you do things you know you shouldn't. So I nursed her. In her cute, adorable, sweet, precious, soft, cuddly outfit. And as soon as she was done nursing she spit up. All over me. All over her cute, adorable, sweet, precious, soft, cuddly outfit. I knew better but did it anyway. So now I smell like spitup and so does Claire. And we both need a change of clothes. Oh well, at least she's not crying anymore. She's not asleep yet though . . .

Super Cute Baby!

Ok Ann. You said you check my blog every day hoping I've posted something (or something like that). So I'm posting this just for you. Claire and I went to bunco tonight and she looked extra cute in her little outfit and hat that Adrienne gave her. You can really only see the hat since she's wrapped up in the blanket. I'll try to take a picture of her in the super cute outfit tomorrow. I'm getting ready to work now. I just needed to have a little "me time" on the computer before I got started. It's 11:45pm now and I've got a ton of work to do that I promised would be done by the morning. Why did I say that? Oh well, at least it'll be done right?

New Computer!

Well, I finally gave in and ordered a new computer. It arrived Saturday afternoon while I was working on a deadline. It was great timing too - the MUCH faster computer is making my life easier. It's nice being able to have several programs open at once so I can switch between them when I'm working. The biggest difference I've noticed is how fast my pictures get uploaded now. Hip hip hooray! And because of that, I'll share some new photos with you! Check them out here: http://home.everestkc.net/nrjordan/pictures

Catching Up

Ok, so it's been three weeks since I last blogged. I've got a new baby. Give me a break. So here's a bit of what's been going on in my life since I last posted. I might even throw in a few pictures if you're good.

1. I think I've relaxed a bit with Claire. I'm not totally obsessing over all the little noises she's making anymore. This means I'm able to sleep a bit better at night. She also had her 1-month checkup and the doctor said that she's getting more than enough to eat (so this means I'm not waking her up after she nurses on one side to nurse more on the other). This has helped me get even more sleep because nursing sessions are shorter and she's sleeping longer. Yeah!

2. I got a haircut. I got tired very quickly of Claire grabbing my hair and it always being in the way when I was nursing. Plus, I had it up in a ponytail so often that it defeated the purpose of keeping it long anyway. My new do is so much easier and feels so much better.

3. I took the above picture two days ago while I was helping Brett brush his teeth before his nap. Claire had just eaten and was falling asleep. Brett was so cute with is "Brettman" mask on and I thought it would be a cute picture to show what my day is like with a newborn. Brett had fun making funny faces for the camera (something he loves to do lately).

4. Claire picks the most inconvenient times to eat. It never fails - right as dinner is ready, right after I've laid down to sleep, right as it's Brett's naptime, right as it's time to leave the house. Claire has some special power to be able to tell when it's the worst time and that's when she's hungry - right then. Not in five minutes, right then. I could wait (as I'm doing now) for her to nurse and she won't wake up/be ready/etc but as soon as I switch gears and move onto actually doing something or trying to get something done, then she's ready. (Kinda like how Brett only needs to talk to me when I'm on the phone.)

5. I made cookies for my friend's little boy's first birthday party today. They are so cute. (Modest aren't I?)

6. I've really been craving enchiladas from On the Border and chicken strips from Chick-Fil-A and Culver's. (I've also been fulfilling those cravings but they are still there! Thank goodness I'm nursing so I can at least burn off some of the calories!)

7. I'm really tired right now but know as soon as I get into bed Claire will wake up to eat. It's 1:15am and she's due to eat any time now. Watch, this will be the night she waits until 2 or 3 am. (See #4 above)

8. Lance has to be at work at 4:30am today. Yuck.

9. Brett is getting SO big. He had pictures at school today so I took his picture of his new outfit before he went to preschool. Look at how big he looks.

10. Lance ordered me a new computer tonight. I am so excited!!!!

11. I have a ton more things floating around in my head but I'm too tired to type anymore. I think I'm going to take my chances and hop into bed!

Clarinet

I can't believe Claire is three weeks old already. Time goes by so quickly. Yes I'm exhausted but Claire is a wonderful baby. Plus, it's been so helpful having Lance home and having such wonderful friends and family who have been taking good care of us by bringing us dinner. It really has helped a bunch. So thank you everyone. I know I've been a bit of a recluse, but I just haven't had the energy to do anything. And, I haven't wanted to take Claire out because of all the nasty bugs that are going around. Everyone I know has either had a cold or the flu. I really don't want a sick baby!

Ok, on to my reason for today's post. Last week I was talking with my sister Ann. I was telling her about Claire's name and how I had wanted Annette. So Ann just looks at me and says "Then her name would have been clarinet." I just started laughing. Do you know how many times I had said Claire Annette in my head? Not once did it occur to me that it sounded just like clarinet. I had run this name idea past Lance and he never said anything about it either. So, I'm glad that we did not name our little girl clarinet, although I really do like the name Annette.

Introducing Claire Nicole

Ok, so Claire Nicole Jordan arrived on Thursday afternoon - 01/29/09 at 1:16pm. She weighed 7 pounds, 2 ounces (her big brother was 7lbs 1oz) and she measured 18 3/4 inches long. We're all doing well. Lance is WONDERFUL - taking care of everything so I can focus on feeding Claire and getting some rest. Brett is an amazing big brother as well. He loves "baby sister" and is constantly giving her kisses. It's really quite sweet. Oh, and Magnus is adjusting well too. He acted the same with Claire when he met her that he did with Brett. Very cute.

I've finally added some pictures of our little peanut to our webpage: http://home.everestkc.net/nrjordan/pictures/claire.html We think she's pretty adorable.

A Sweet Birthday

Ok, so most of you know it's my birthday today. I LOVE my birthday, and birthdays in general. I got the sweetest birthday greeting this morning. Brett woke up, came into my bedroom and said "Happy Birthday Momma!". That was the sweetest thing ever. I was wondering if he would remember on his own (Lance had already left for work and had no opportunity to coach him). He then told me I got to open my card and that today was a special day. It is a special day.

Oh, and he did remember to wish Magnus a happy birthday too!

Just waiting to be induced

First, I have to add to my previous post. My mother was just as guilty in that purchase as my sister was. They were out shopping together and saw it and thought it was funny. So thanks Mom! But, at least if I do have an ugly child she gets some of the blame right? :)

Ok, now on to my induction! Hip hip hooray! I went to the doctor on Thursday and had a sonogram. The baby is measuring 6 pounds, 13 ounces (yes I know this is just an estimate but it FREAKS ME OUT!). So, because my labor with Brett was so difficult, my doctor is willing to induce me on the 29th. This is only 4 days before my due date so that's really not that bad. Brett was born 1 day before his due date. I'm happy about this. It'll be nice to share January with my little girl for our birthday month. I always shared it with my dad and loved that. I guess I'm just strange that way.

I've been having tons of Braxton-Hicks contractions and am feeling extremely uncomfortable. However, I'd be totally shocked if I actually went into labor rather than being induced. I just don't think it's going to happen. So, just expect this little one to come on the 29th. I'll be sending a photo to my friend Adrienne and then she is going to email everyone with the baby's info when she is born. As long as we're feeling good we're happy to have visitors. That will be in the email.

I'm just trying to get all my last minute work done before the baby comes. Maybe she's just waiting until all that is done before she comes! I'd better get it done then. Off to work now. Happy MLK Day! (We're excited because Lance gets the day off so it's a reason to celebrate - and he really was a good man with a good cause.)

Don't Have Ugly Children

I got this in the mail last week. Isn't it funny? It was in an envelope with no return address. I knew who it was from though - my sister Ann. Partly because she had asked me the day before if I'd gotten a package in the mail (duh Ann!) and partly because we have this running joke about the baby being ugly. Let me explain.

Ann keeps joking with me that she hopes the baby is not ugly. And, that if she is, she'll tell me she's cute anyway. I told her that I'll know if she thinks the baby is ugly or not because Ann (like me) does not have a very good poker face. So, we have this ongoing joke about the baby being ugly and Ann's reaction to it. It's quite funny (maybe it's sister humor - Lance doesn't really understand it all). So Ann found this gum when she and my mom were out one day and thought it would be funny to send it anonomously to me (yet another thing us Roth's are famous for - sending funny stuff anonomously through the mail to people). The first thing she asked when I called her, laughing, to tell her I got it was "You aren't upset by it are you?". She said she was worried with me being hormonal that I'd cry instead of laugh when I got it and that's one reason she "told" me she sent it. I assured her that I wasn't upset, especially since I know my little girl is going to be beautiful - look at Brett - Lance and I make pretty babies (cocky too aren't I?).

Anyway, I've been wanting to post it for a while, just haven't gotten around to scanning it. Just wondering if I should chew the gum just to be on the safe side?

This made me smile

I walked into our bedroom today and this is what brought a smile to my face. Lance had brought the cradle upstairs from the basement. I knew he had done it but forgot about it. So, when I walked in and saw it, it made me smile.

This is the cradle my dad made when my sister was born (38 years ago!). Lance repainted it when Brett was born and made a base for it to sit on. It's such a pretty piece of furniture and it fits perfectly in our room. Now we just need our little one to put in it!

3 weeks, 2 days . . .

Ok, so I had told myself at the beginning of this pregnancy that I would not be eagerly waiting in the last few weeks for the baby to come. Rather, I'd enjoy the time being pregnant and having only one child. Not happening. I can't focus on anything and just cannot wait to see what my little girl is going to look like! Is she going to look like me (I think so) or like her daddy and brother? Am I going to be induced or will I (hopefully) just go into labor and have to wake Lance up in the middle of the night and say "It's time!". I'm a complete freak right now and I guess I knew I would be.





I have a lot of work to do but it's the middle of the day and I have a three-year-old so I'm not working. I work better at night anyways. I am working on painting the baby's room. Check it out:

Didn't Lance do a good job with the pink, green and brown? Now I'm working on the flowers. I'm painting them all in white first then I'm going to go back and color them in. It's a lot of work, but I'm a dork that way. I get an idea in my head and there's really no way around it. I think Lance knew this when he saw my idea for the room and just sighed heavily. But, it's close to being done. Now I just have to figure out what I'm going to do for bedding, etc. If all else fails I can use Brett's yellow bedding. It won't look wonderful but it'll work. I'm going to use the rocker and drapes from his room which are orange so I'm making sure I put some orange flowers in the mix! I am having a lot of fun with all the pink!

Speaking of pink, one day I was washing some of the clothes I had bought for the baby at a consignment sale. Lance transferred them from the washer into the dryer for me. A few minutes later he said "I can't believe you'd wash something red with all those white things - everything is now pink." I frantically ran to the dryer to see and just started laughing. Everything was pink, but not because anything had been ruined by the laundry, but because it was all pink when I bought it. I guess he's just used to having a boy and there not being any pink around.

Another funny thing today. Brett was telling Lance all about what was going to happen when the baby comes. He then said that the baby is going to look like Grandpa (Lance's dad) because the baby is not going to have any hair and Grandpa doesn't have any hair. We got a good chuckle out of that one!

Ok, well Brett is still napping (hip hip hooray!) and I need to type up instructions for my friend to take care of Magnus while we have the baby (thanks Casey!).