Thursday, July 2, 2009

Take your Dog to Work Day!

Sophie and I at my desk

Lori and Buttons



Emily and Campden
Last Friday was National Take your Dog to Work Day!

My office allowed us to bring in our dogs for the day.

So I loaded Sophie into the car and took her to show here where I work.About after two hours I decided that "Take your Baby to Work Day" would have been easier.

Sophie barked at EVERYONE!

Other dogs were so good and quiet, but not Sophie. She was social and wanted to get to know everyone!

She was voted LOUDEST dog! I don't think I will participate next year...and I think my coworkers will appreciate that! :)
Posted by Picasa

Wednesday, July 1, 2009

Best Wishes Jill and Russ!

Justin, Kristen, Aaron, Kristin, Amanda, Noah,
and the parents to be - Russ and Jill.
Jill and Jackson (in his PJs)
Cookies in Baby Will's honor!
This past weekend, Justin and I got the chance to celebrate the
upcoming arrival of Baby William Harms.
Our good friends, Jill and Russ Harms, are expecting their first baby
at the end of the summer.
Amanda and David Noah, Kristin and Aaron Charles, and Justin and I threw a couples baby
shower for them this past weekend. It was so fun to get together and
celebrate with everyone.
Even Jackson brought a gift for Baby Will. He gave Will a few of his
favorite things...some paci's, a photo book, some toy keys, and a few other things.
Jackson thought Will should have these things too...all things every little boy needs! :)
Baby Will has lucked out - he has two great parents.
Best Wishes to Russ and Jill!
PS. Sorry this post is centered...It won't post any other way -
perhaps it is too early for my computer! :)

Tuesday, June 30, 2009

Summer


Ok...so the blog posts are have slowed a bit.


I have noticed. I know some of you have noticed, because you e-mailed me to complain! :)


Well, it is summer and we have been spending a lot of time outside. Blog posting is just a little harder when the beautiful weather is calling my name (and Jackson's too - he loves being outside).


So - more posts to come...more often.


I will get back on track...or at least try to!


Thursday, June 25, 2009

The Bucket List


Justin and Kristen with MJ at the New York Wax Museum....


The Bucket List.

Justin and I each have one.

We shared them with each other when we got married.

Ever since, Justin has been making sure I mark my "to-do's" off my list.

I want to do the same for him.

A few years ago, when the Colts won the super bowl...we were there. We both marked that one off our list that year. Justin has already made certain that I got to see New York City at Christmas time. It was a MUST on my list. And..yes, I cried when I saw the Rockefeller Christmas tree (hey, its the small things in life).

In April, Justin and I stayed up most of the night and waited our turn to purchase tickets to see Michael Jackson in London. Our tickets were for Feb. 18. We would be celebrating Justin's 30th birthday. I couldn't wait for Justin to be able to mark seeing Michael Jackson in concert off his bucket list. I was so happy that for once, I would be making sure he marked something off his list.

Seeing Michael Jackson live has meant so much to Justin for as long as I have known him. He use to warn me he would spend our "life savings" to see him if he had too...lucky for me, that wasn't necessary.

Since we ordered the tickets, Justin has been talking about his excitement for the concert daily. Needless to say, he was a fan. Needless to say, today was a very sad day for him.

Justin is out of town with no cell service. I sent him a text that he needed to call home. When he did, he had already been told that Michael had passed away. Justin is very disappointed we didn't make it to London.

So am I.

I wanted Justin to mark this off his Bucket List...and he was so close.

So very sad.

Wednesday, June 24, 2009

It was even too hot for ice cream!




Tonight was hot. Very hot.

I decided that I would treat Jackson to some ice cream.

Justin is out of town. So Aunt Ashley is staying with Jackson and I for the rest of the week.

Ashley, Jackson, and I piled in the car tonight and went for ice cream.

We couldn't eat it quick enough. Before I knew it...Jackson and I had more ice cream on us than we had eaten.

It didn't matter - it was great fun.

A big thanks to Aunt Ashley for helping this week...and for snapping some great photos! :)

P.S. Still downloading vacation photos...stay tuned.

Posted by Picasa

Tuesday, June 23, 2009

These are for you, Mommy!


Last night, Jackson came home from a shopping trip with Justin and had a surprise for me.

Flowers.

How sweet, right?

It was. I immediately ran for the camera.

This photo shows exactly how he handed them to me. However, what I didn't catch on camera is that before I could say "thank you" and take them...Jackson beat them into the carpet.

The flowers are in a vase, but are looking a little rough.

He may want to work on his delivery before he starts dating. :)
Posted by Picasa

Sunday, June 21, 2009

Happy Father's Day, Daddy!

Father's Day 2009



Father's Day 2008

...And, we're back.

Justin and I arrived home last night (Sat. night at Midnight) from our first week away from Jackson. I will tell you more about that later this week.

We have not sat down since we arrived in Indy.

We made it back in time to attend a birthday party for my brother in law, Tom and my niece, Maddie. More about that this week too.

We came home and realized we didn't celebrate Father's Day. So...Jackson and I have a little something planned for tomorrow. After all, Jackson can celebrate how much he loves his Daddy any day, right?

So..stay tuned this week for vacation photos, updates and more.

P.S. Thanks to all who called, text, and e-mailed me thoughts today as today was my first Father's Day without my own Dad. I have such great friends! He was missed...more than you know.

Whew......I need a vacation from my vacation! :)
Posted by Picasa

Thursday, June 11, 2009

Happy Birthday, Maddie!

Jackson, Olivia, Maddie

Who knew turning six was such a big deal? Well, Miss Maddie does.

Our niece, Madeline turned six today (it is 12:09 - so I guess it was yesterday) and she couldn't be happier.

Maddie has had a big month. She graduated kindergarten, toured her "big-kid" school, played a major part in the spring recital (part included a Hannah Montanna wig), and has now turned six. You would think she would have ran out of energy...but she just keeps going.

Maddie's personality is full of spunk. She never will surprise you with her quick wit. We just love having her around.

However, we aren't the only ones who love having her around. In fact, I called today to wish her a happy birthday and I also got to talk to her older sister, Olivia. Olivia explained to me that she was a little sad because Maddie had declared that she would not be calling Olivia "sissy" anymore. She was too old for that now. She would be always calling her Olivia. I explained to Olivia that I was sure she would continue to use favorite nickname, but Liv wasn't so sure. Shortly after our conversation turned to something else...I heard Madeline scream for Olivia from the other room...."S-I-S-S-Y". Olivia just giggled and said, "I got to go - Maddie needs me". See what I mean, we aren't the only ones who love her. I hope Maddie always calls Olivia "Sissy"!

Side Note: Justin spent his afternoon trying to catch Maddie on the phone with no prevail. Later tonight she called and said, "Well, I guess I'm going to have to tell you it is my birthday..." Ha! Say a prayer for the man that will one day marry her...she doesn't miss a beat!

Happy Birthday, Maddie...We love you so much!
Posted by Picasa

Tuesday, June 9, 2009

BUSY!


Why is the week leading up to a vacation so hectic?
Perhaps it is so you will appreciate the week away even more.

Not a lot of time to post this week. We are busy packing and preparing for a week away.

However, here is a quick update on our week.

Jackson is still making us laugh each day. He certainly knows the word "no" and is very dramatic at shaking his head to get his point across. He is quite partial to the VeggieTales DVD that Aunt Shel bought him for Christmas last year. In fact, I am attempting to catch him on camera dancing along with these singing vegetables. Jackson's appetite has taken off and one needs to be warned if he/she is eating watermelon, cantaloupe, or cheese! Jackson will want it and he doesn't want to share! :)

We have officially signed Jackson up for pre-school. We have enrolled him at Learning Time Pre-school in Geist. He will start in August and we are super excited for Jackson to begin school. We look forward to him coming home and showing us what he has learned each week.

In the next couple of weeks, Justin and I need to make some decisions regarding where we are living. Our lease is up in mid-July and we are moving back to the north-side of Indy. Those of you who know me well...know that I have wanted this for a long time. Justin and I are so excited to be close to our family and friends again. I am smiling just typing this!

We are busy packing and preparing for vacation. I can't wait to come back and tell you all about our vacation...
Stay Tuned...


Sunday, June 7, 2009

A Great Summer Weekend!

Jamie, Sara, Kristen

Justin, Adam, Dallas

Jackson - loving the warm water!

Justin, Jackson and I had a great weekend.

It felt like summer had officially arrived.


Our weekend was full of fun.

Friday we started the weekend off with an Indians Game. Jackson has become a favorite on the suite level at Victory field. He goes in and out of each suite to see who has the best food. Justin and I spent most of our night chasing after him. We both voted that we might have to get a baby-sitter the next time we go...so we can actually report who won instead what each suite was serving. :)

Our Saturday night plans made me feel like summer was officially here. We attended the Rascal Flatts concert with great friends. It was great to spend some time with Sara and Adam and Dallas and Jamie. I will admit, I enjoyed the company more than the concert this year. (Not sure why - but Rascal Flatts just weren't that good). However, it really was great to see our friends and get to laugh and catch up. My favorite part of the night was some of the fashions that were displayed at the concert. Jamie and Sara also provided some good commentary to go along with the fashion show! :)

Today, Jackson and my Mom and I "broke into" Michelle and Tom's house (they were out of town) and went for a swim. I had stopped by the night before and turned the pool heater up so it was nice and warm for Jackson. I wouldn't say he is a "water bug" just yet, but he did enjoy himself. I'm sure by the end of summer he will be loving it...he just isn't sure what to think yet.

My mom is staying with us tonight and we have already been out to enjoy a wagon ride. I am just loving this great weather. Jackson loves being outside!

Here is hoping for a great week...and more great weather!
Posted by Picasa

Thursday, June 4, 2009

The Best Sound Ever...

I have decided I could listen to Jackson giggle all day!

Happy Friday too all of you.

Have a great weekend!

Enjoy!

Tuesday, June 2, 2009

Let's Rock N Roll...




I couldn't resist sharing these photos. Check out the ACDC t-shirt
(purchased by Justin) along with Jackson's Rock N Roll pj's!


This kid is ready to rock!

This doesn't mean we need a drum set delivered to our house. So don't get any ideas! :)

P.S. I'm not sure the pacifier does much for his "Rocker" image? :)
Posted by Picasa

Sunday, May 31, 2009

Lions, Tigers, and Komodo Dragons...

Today we packed a cooler for lunch, some sunscreen, and our walking shoes and headed to the Indianapolis Zoo. We had such a great time. It was fun to see Jackson react to some animals and be completely unimpressed with others.

Jackson had his first train ride, his first carousel ride, and fed his first Giraffe (I think it was Justin's first Giraffe feeding too). The poor Giraffe almost didn't get his food from Jackson, because Jackson tried to eat it first. We had to ask the zoo keeper what we were feeding the Giraffe just in case Jackson actually swallowed a little piece. Turns out - it was just a piece of sweet potato...Jackson's favorite!

We had a great family day! Justin and I are looking forward to a summer filled with days like today!

Enjoy some of our favorite pictures from today!


Wednesday, May 27, 2009

This makes it worth it...

For all of the times I wondered if being a working mother was worth it or not...tonight convinced me it was.

I wouldn't trade my "welcoming committee" for anyone else.

Coming home to this makes leaving each day worth it!

Check out how Jackson greeted me when I arrived home from work tonight! So glad to have moments like this on camera! There will come a day when kissing your Mom isn't so cool...and I will have this to remember!



Monday, May 25, 2009

Way to go, Helio!

Last week, Justin and I decided to attend the Indianapolis 500 this year. At the last minute, we searched online and purchased two tickets. We were so excited!

I had not been to the Indy 500 since I was young. Justin last went before we were married.

We had a great time! Our seats were amazing (see pictures). We could see so much and had such great people around us to add to the fun. Justin and I have already decided to attend next year! :)

The start of the race has always been my favorite. For years, my parents and I would stop what we are doing to listen to Jim Nabors sing "Back Home Again in Indiana." My Dad loved hearing that song and would often spend race day singing it. So when it came time for Jim Nabors to step up to the microphone...Justin and I were both in tears. We toughed out the song and thought of my Dad. Then, we realized that the people around us must think that we either really love Indiana or we really love Jim Nabors. Either way, I'm sure they thought it was odd that we were in tears. :)

Before the race, Justin and I met up with my cousin, Ryan, his girlfriend - Mandi, and her entire family. The Corn family is so much fun! A big thanks to the Corn family for letting us join in their fun.

Enjoy some pictures from race day!


Thursday, May 21, 2009

Do I have to share?


If you know us well, you know how much we worried that Jackson didn't like solid foods.

We worried so much that Justin starting joking that Jackson would be eating Gerber Stage 2 foods while on dates with girls during his teen years.

Well, we are worried no more.

For the past two weeks Jackson wants anything and everything off my plate.

At first, I was so excited about his new appetite.

But that excitement was halted tonight when I was enjoying my favorite snack. I had just opened a package of Fudge Striped Mini-Cookies when Jackson heard the package open and came running.

Of course, I shared my beloved snack...and then, as Jackson was licking the fudge off each cookie, I realized I would now be sharing ALL of my snacks...


Hmmm...I'm not sure how I feel about this...I hear teenage boys eat a lot.... :)

Enjoy your holiday weekend!
Posted by Picasa

Corn Hole Season has begun...

...And Jackson's is ready to play. Who wants to be on his team?



Posted by Picasa

Tuesday, May 19, 2009

When did he get so big...


Lately, I look at Jackson and wonder when he became this "big-boy."

Tonight I felt like I had a teenager with me at dinner.

We were eating at one of our favorite restaurants. Jackson actually devoured a meal off the kids menu. While I sat and remembered the Gerber Stage 2 days.

When it was time to leave. Jackson climbed out of his high-chair (with a little help from Dad)...and then proceeded to walk (or waddle) behind Justin all the way to the car.

I walked behind Jackson. I was ready to pick him up if he fell, kiss a scraped knee, and suggest that I carry him the rest of the way. BUT...he never fell.

Instead, when Jackson arrived at our car. He threw his hands in the air as if to say, "I did it" and/or "put me in the car, Mom."

When did he get so big?

Friday, May 15, 2009

Jackson's One Year Photos!

Justin and I recently met Brooke and Dan Brand at a nearby park for Jackson's one year old photos. I had hoped for great weather and that is exactly what we got!

Jackson had a great time at the park - but wasn't always willing to "pose." But I didn't worry. I love the photos of him just enjoying himself at the park.

Check out the photos on the Brand Photography Blog. The link is below.

Enjoy!

http://brandphotodesign.blogspot.com/2009/05/jackson-is-one-year-old.html

Thursday, May 14, 2009

Wishing you were here, Dad!



Today is my Dad's birthday.

He would have been 65.

All week I have felt as if I should have been rushing out to buy his gift. I probably would have bought him Ann Coulter's new book. I would have given him a hard time about buying into her right wing theories. Then, I would have read it when he was done just to argue some of her points with him.

I remember running to Cold Stone Creamery with my Mom last year for his birthday cake. He loved ice-cream cake. I don't care for it, but would give anything to share a piece with my Dad this year for his birthday.

In honor of my Dad's birthday...I would like to share just a few stories to show what a great father he was. My Dad was a "girls Dad." I'm not sure he would have known what to do with a son. Well, I'm sure he would have figured it out...but, boy, was he great to his three girls. Here is why:
  • When Michelle had just started Valley Grove Elementary as the "new girl", she entered a cake decorating contest. My mom insisted she decorate the cake herself (even though my mom is an expert). My mom thought it would be a good lesson for Michelle to try on her own. My Dad and Michelle arrived at school with her sloppy cake she decorated ...only to find other cakes that were obviously decorated with Mom's help (if not a local bakery). Dad calmly looked at Michelle and said, "Want to get out of here and go to McDonald's?" Michelle took him up on his offer.
  • Years later, when it came time for me to compete in the "invention" contest at school - Mom and Dad learned their lesson. Dad was to "help" me invent something. Dad pulled out his electrician skills and built the "Teenage Telephone Timer." The timer would automatically shut the telephone line off in an instant when the call time was over. I didn't win the "invention" contest...but I think it was because it was obvious I had "help." I didn't care that I didn't win. I was so impressed with my Dad's skills. I thought he was so smart.
  • Having three girls, Dad never complained about attending beauty pageants for us when we were young. Instead, Dad would sit in the back and "gossip" with all the other mothers. At night, after dinner and a swim in the hotel pool...Dad would dish all the scoop he had gathered that day. I remember thinking all the Dad's did this. However, I know that wasn't true.
  • When it came time for Deb and Shel to be in the band in high school. Dad was the "Band Booster President." His plaque showcasing his service to the high school band hung in his office for years. He wasn't so much proud of being president as he was proud to be a part his daughters activity.
  • When I started high-school. I soon realized it wasn't "cool" to ride the school bus anymore. Dad immediately offered to take my friend, Jenny, and I to school each day. However, Dad made sure a stop at McDonald's for breakfast was part of our morning routine. Dad would ask Jenny and I about school, our friends, and activities. I can still picture sitting next to Jenny and across from my Dad with my Egg McMuffin.
  • Speaking of Jenny...She was married in Florida a few years ago. Another long-time friend of mine was married in Florida the same year. As soon as the invites came in the mail. Both my parents were on the computer arranging flights. I always loved the way they loved my friends...and continued to do so as we became adults. My Dad would often ask about them or call me with excitement if he ran into one of them.
  • At the end of my senior year in high school I tried out for cheerleader at Franklin College. I didn't make it. I was crushed. I vividly remember my dad sitting on my bed with me while I cried. All over cheerleading. He didn't care what it was over. He wasn't leaving until I felt better. A couple weeks into my freshman year at Franklin, I was notified that a girl had quit the cheerleading squad and I was asked to join. I had a matter of days before our first game. It was at another college 3 hours away. When the bus pulled up, there was my Mom and Dad. Decked out in their Blue and Gold ready to cheer on the Grizzlies...and me. They came the next week, the week after that, and the next week...
  • My Dad never missed a Prom. I look back at all of my pictures of me getting ready for prom, photos with my date outside, pictures walking into prom, photos with friends after prom...and you can see my Dad in all of them. Both my parents were always involved in After Prom. I can remember Deb's After Prom vividly. My Dad dressed up as a clown in a park and "married" couples who had been to prom together. My mom was the "bag lady" and stood up with each couple as they got "married." I got to attend that After Prom with my parents...and I loved every minute of it. So did my Dad...
  • Having my Dad walk me down the isle at my wedding was one of the bests parts of the day. Justin knows this. We talk often about how much it meant to me. I am Daddy's Little Girl...and I had looked forward to that moment for so long. Dad waited with me downstairs while the rest of the bridal party took their place. I remember he said to me, "I'm proud of you." I thought this was odd...I hadn't really accomplished anything. I fell in love and was marrying the man of my dreams...but I hadn't cured cancer or solved world hunger. Dad explained he was proud of the judgement I had in choosing a husband. He was proud of the adult I had become. I walked down the isle glowing partly because of who was standing at the other end...but also because of what my Dad had said to me.

There are countless other stories I could share to show you how truly lucky my sisters and I are to have had the father that we did. He was one of kind and couldn't have loved his daughters more.

I miss him everyday. I'm sad there won't be chances to create more stories like the ones above. So, instead, I hold on to the ones I do have.

Happy Birthday, Dad. We miss you...and love you even more.

Monday, May 11, 2009

One of these things is not like the other...


Kristen, Deb, Michelle, Mom, Grandma

On Mother’s Day my Grandma, Mom, and sisters sat down for a photo. We were excited that it turned out great.

I quickly came home to download the photo. As I looked at it...I realized how much I don't look like my sisters. Both my sisters have blond hair (though they get a little help with that) and both have very fair skin. I have dark hair and tan easily.


Everyone has always teased me that I was the "Milk Man's" child. Of course, that isn't true...but often think it is funny that I just don't look like my sisters. However, when I pull out old photos of my Mom - I see her short dark hair and I see myself in her a lot. :)

So…I thought it would be fun to take a poll...check it out on the side to the right of the blog. Who do you think I look like? Mom, Michelle, Deb...or the Milk Man?


Jackson's First Birthday Party - Part II

This past weekend, we held another birthday party for Jackson. This time, it was at Grandma Marge's house and all of Justin's extended family joined us to celebrate.

This is such a fun group of people and they have instantly fallen in love with Jackson. We are so lucky to have so many people who love him and who love us.

My Mom and Grandma also joined us for the celebration.

Check out the photos...you will notice a lawn mower, a four wheeler, a baseball mitt, and even an interactive pony...add that to a wagon, a firetruck, and a drum set...and this little boy is set for one year of fun! ...And our place officially looks like a Toys R Us. No worries, we are loving it!

A big thanks to all who helped us celebrate Jackson's birthday!

I feel like he will graduate high school next week. :)




Sunday, May 10, 2009

What a difference a year makes!

Mother's Day 2008

Mother's Day 2009


Mother's Day 2009

I hope all of you had a wonderful Mother's day. I hope all of the mother's were showered with love and I hope the rest of you showered your mother with love.

Jackson surprised me with a Spa Day that I am already looking forward to. (He got me the same thing last year and remembered how much I loved it!)

I feel so lucky to be Jackson's mother. Motherhood has surprised me in so many ways. Yet, it challenges me each day. Each night when I tuck Jackson in to bed, I thank God for giving him to us. He has been the sole reason I have made it through a very tough year.

Jackson brings me happiness when I can't find it. He shows me strength when I don't seem to have any. He gives me laughter when I can't seem to laugh on my own.


It seemed odd today for Jackson to give me a gift...because I feel like I owe him so much already.

One day, I will repay him.





Posted by Picasa

Happy Mother's Day



Happy Mother's Day to all Moms reading this.

Justin and I wanted to take minute to wish some of the special Mothers in our lives a very happy Mother's Day.

Some of you have been moms for quite some time and have fun stories to share.

Some of you became a mother about the same time I did. I have enjoyed swamping "war" stories and laughing together.

Others are celebrating their very first mother's day today. How special!

No matter which category you fall under, we are blessed to have you in our lives.

Happy Mother's Day! Enjoy every minute of it!
Posted by Picasa

Thursday, May 7, 2009

Best Wishes, Jake and Jill!


JT, Jake, Adam, Justin, and Joe

Our good friend, Jake is getting married this weekend. Justin and I wanted to send Jake and his fiance', Jill, our best wishes for a wonderful wedding day...
and an even more wonderful life together.


Congrats!
Posted by Picasa

Tuesday, May 5, 2009

Jackson's First Birthday Party

Well, I think Justin and I both survived Jackson's first birthday. I never questioned whether or not I would make it through the party...but I wasn't sure I would be able to accept that my baby was turning one.

Well, I did it.

Justin and I have spent the past couple of days talking about how big he truly is. We know that there are so many more "firsts" and exciting things to come. Jackson surprises us each day with something new. We look forward to year two!

Thank you for all the calls, texts, e-mails, gifts, cards, and birthday wishes for Jackson. Justin and I know how lucky we are that we have so many people who care about Jackson. We will be sure to remind of this each day.

Also, a BIG thanks to Michelle and Tom for allowing us to host the party at their home. We owe you one!

Enjoy some of our favorite photos of Jackson's First Birthday party.


Watch the larger version in the picassa web album (link on right).

Note: Did you notice Jackson's REAL golf clubs! Grandpa John figured he needed to start his golf game a little early! Tee Hee!

We are celebrating more this weekend with one last party...we will have fun photos to share next week too.

Monday, May 4, 2009

Birthday Update is coming...


I'm still recovering from Jackson's party.

Jackson is still on a sugar high from all the birthday cake. We have all the gifts put away. All the left overs are in the fridge.

However, I just realized I took a gazillion pictures that day and it will take some time to go through them.

Check in tomorrow for the official birthday update...this Mommy is moving a little slow.
Posted by Picasa

Sunday, May 3, 2009

Jackson is pooped...

Who knew turning 1 is so exhausting?

... and so is Mom and Dad!

Before we hit the sack, we wanted to say a big thanks to all our friends and family who helped us celebrate Jackson's first birthday.

We are very lucky to have all of you in our lives.

Check back in this week to see photos and video from the big day.

One party down, one to go...we will party with Justin's family next week. Can't wait!
Posted by Picasa

Happy First Birthday, Jackson!



Can you believe our little "baby" is one?

We can't.

We are enjoying a great weekend with Jackson.

Stay tuned for a full birthday report later this week.

For now, join us in wishing Jackson a very happy first birthday.

Dear Jackson,

Happy First Birthday!

It is hard to believe you are already a year old. And what a year it has been.

Your Dad has always told me that everything happens for a reason. This year has been tough and it is hard to say why things had to happen the way they did. But one thing is for sure, God gave us you to help us make it through this tough year. That is exactly what you did. As a mother, I always want to be here for you to lean on. However, the first year of your life I leaned on you. And you never let me down. I promise to never let you down.

I will always be grateful for having you in our lives during this time. Our first year with you wasn't what we expected, yet it was so wonderful. Words can't describe the joy you bring to our lives.

Thank you for being exactly who you are. Thank you for giggling the way you do, for crying at 5:15 a.m this morning, for clapping every time you hear music, for insisting you sit on my lap when I'm at the computer, for wanting to "help" Dad load the dishwasher, for loving to play in the bathtub, for FINALLY eating solid foods, for loving all of your grandparents the way you do, for the best kisses in the world, for always making diaper changes interesting, for having the cutest dimples in the world, and for just being all that makes you...you.

I was so scared to become a mother, yet I can't imagine not being your mother. I wish I could slow time down and soak in every moment with you. I promise to do my best to enjoy life with you and I know your Dad feels the same way.

I wish you all the happiness life can hand you.

I can't wait for the next year.

I love you with all of my heart.

Love,
Mom
Posted by Picasa

Friday, May 1, 2009

1 year ago today...

I just received an e-mail from a friend, Kristin. She forwarded me an e-mail that I had sent to all of our friends 1-year ago today.

Little did I know, Jackson would arrive ON MY DUE DATE!

Kristin, thanks for sending this. It reminded me how excited I was when Jackson finally decided to arrive!

From: Kristen Bixler [mailto:krisbix@gmail.com]
Sent: Thursday, May 01, 2008 10:40 AM
To: Kristen Bixler Personal
Subject: Baby Jackson

Hi all,

Justin and I wanted to let everyone know the update on Baby Jackson.

My due date is Saturday. However, Jackson is showing no signs of arriving on time (must get that from me!). In fact, I even told Justin to go ahead and make a Tee time for Saturday - Only Justin would golf on my due date. :)

I am scheduled to be induced on May 9 (next Friday) unless Jackson comes before then....and babies do have their own agenda.

We will keep you all posted on Jackson's arrival. Thank you all for your love and support through this exciting time!

We hope you are all well.

Kristen