Our Thanksgiving Weekend ... In photos!

We had a great Thanksgiving weekend.  We packed a lot of fun in just a few days.  Here are some photos to show the fun!

Jackson eating some turkey!

Mom and Me

Jackson's visit with Santa.  He did Okay - but wouldn't sit on his lap without me.

Waiting to go outside for the Circle of Lights in Indy.

Jackson and his Daddy

Waiting for the tree to light up!

Olivia and Griffin

Hayden and Greg

Maddie and Tom

Mom and I laughing!  :)
Jackson's 2nd tree lighting - my 30th!  :)

Dinner at Buca's

Laughing at his own jokes!

Sitting at the big kid table!

Jackson's new "cheese" smile....

Jackson went swimming at the hotel!

1-2-3- JUMP

We even went Bowling!

Jackson's first time Bowling!

But fell asleep two frames in...

Jackson woke up in time for the arcade...

We played ski ball...
But Jackson threw over-handed...

Such a fun weekend!

So Tired, So fun, So Sad Its Over...

We just returned from our annual "Symmes-Family Weekend" in downtown Indy.  

Fun was had by all.

I enjoyed (AKA - Survived) another Black Friday shopping trip with my Mom and sisters.

Justin enjoyed some "brother-in-law" time.

...and Jackson enjoyed spending time with his cousins. 

All the fun is starting to sit in and we are a bit tired.  

I will fill you in on our weekend tomorrow.  Lots to report:  Jackson's visit with Santa Claus, Jackson's first time bowling, and lots of laughs.  Can't wait to share.

For now, I'm trying to figure out while Jackson is still awake at 10 p.m......

Happy Thanksgiving!

Happy Thanksgiving!

I have 30 minutes left of this Thanksgiving holiday and I want to take some time to tell you all we hope you had a great day.  I hope you all spent the day with family and friends and those that you are thankful for.  

We just returned from a full day of great fun with both sides of our family...a lot of laughs and great food!  

Jackson surprised us with this great piece of artwork when we picked him up at school yesterday. 

Its a keeper!  Enjoy!

Falls Park in the Fall!

About a month ago, Justin and I took Jackson to Falls Park in Pendleton.  Its a family favorite in my family.  All the kids love to feed the ducks.  So of course, we brought some bread for the "duck - eeeeey" (as Jackson liked to call them).

Jackson wasn't afraid of the ducks at all.  In fact, we had to remind him not to get too close.  :)

Enjoy the photos!

Where did "Baby Griffin" go?

Maddie, Jackson, and Griffin

Lately it just seems like my family's "little ones" are not staying little like I think they should.

Today my nephew, Griffin, had out patient surgery.  It was minor, but I still called to check on him.  I had my speech ready.  I was going to pump him up and tell him to be brave and not be afraid when his mom changed his bandages....but there was no need for the "bravery talk".  

Griffin answered the phone and reminded me he was eating dinner (basically, lets make this quick).  I asked how he was feeling, he responded with "good"... As if he hadn't gone under the knife a few hours earlier.  Instead he wanted to talk about how he gets three days off school this week for Thanksgiving.  

Such a big kid.  They sure don't stay little very long.  

I had planned on posting some "Get Well Soon" wishes for Griffin tonight.  But it seems he is doing just fine.  So instead, I am posting how amazed I am that my "little" nephew is so big and brave.  Not so much a little boy ... but a sweet, big kid...

Love you, Griff!

Best Wishes to Jess, Jeremy, Campbell and Baby Baker!

Today, my Mom and I threw a shower for my dear friend Jessica.  Jessica is expecting Baby Baker in January.  It was great to get Jess' closest family and friends together to wish her, Jeremy and Campbell (the big sister) well.  

It was so fun to watch Jess open everything and anything blue!  Baby Baker is one lucky boy.  Not only does he have a room full of blue waiting on him - he lucked out in the family department.  His Mom, Dad, and sister are all anxiously waiting to hold him and show him how much is already loved.  He has Grandparents, Aunts and Uncles all waiting to greet him. Yes sir!...Baby Baker is one lucky boy!

Best wishes to Jess, Jeremy, Campbell and Baby Baker.

P.S.  I forgot to snap photos at the shower but Jess did let me snap a fun one when we were goofing off after the party.  She completely knew this photo was going on the blog!  :)

I heart Google Shopping!

I had spotted an adorable pair of PJs for Jackson at Kohl's a couple of weeks ago.

However, they didn't have his size.  In fact, there wasn't a 2T at any Kohl's in Indiana.  I couldn't buy them online either.

These just weren't any PJs - they were MICKEY MOUSE PJs.  I knew Jackson would them, so I was bummed when the customer service lady told me they could find his size.  

I came home and Googled Flannel Mickey Mouse Pajamas...and BINGO.....I found his size.

The UPS man delivered the PJs today - and Jackson loved pointing out Mickey on his Pjs tonight.  He kept saying, "Hey, Mom (his new name for me - like he is 17) - MIC-KEY" (as he points to his belly, leg, arm.....

Thanks Google!  

I absolutely LOVE google shopping!

This house is sick!

We are sick.

Jackson and I.

He has a severe ear infection - I have a sinus infection (self diagnosed, but I'm calling the doctor today).

So not much of a post today.  We are too busy blowing noses, taking medicine, and wrestling Jackson down for ear drops.

Check back in tomorrow.  Hopefully we are feeling better.

P.S.  A big thanks to Justin who woke me up last night to tell me who got kicked off Biggest Loser, who got up with Jackson in the night, and woke up with Jackson at 5 am this morning while I slept and tried to feel a bit better.  What a guy!

A Great Weekend!

Yesterday brought us great weather and we couldn't resist the chance to take Jackson to the park.  We even took the W-A-G-O-N along.  (That's right - we have to spell it anymore because Jackson will insist we go on a wagon right no matter how cold it is outside).  :)

We spent some time on the swings, the curly Q slide, and then went tried out the Wagon for about an hour!  Jackson loved it and we loved seeing him smile!

Let it Snow, Let it Snow...

Even though we enjoyed the warm weather, we are a little anxious for the holidays (Jackson makes Christmas so much fun).  Justin and I have full weekends planned between now and Christmas (so excited to visit with family and friends in the weeks ahead).  Since we had some free time this weekend we decided to go ahead and decorate our Christmas tree.  I know its a bit early - but nothing wrong with getting a head start on the holiday spirit!

We saved the tree-topper for Jackson! :)

We hope you enjoyed your weekend too.  I'm off to cheer on the Colts (If I can stay up late enough).  Go Blue!

Celebrating our Veteran's: Papaw Mike and Uncle Tom

Tonight, Justin and I attended a Veteran's Day program at Griffin's school.  

It started with serenade of patriotic music.  They even sang some Johnny Cash.  Jackson sat between Justin and I and clapped after each song.  I took pictures to send to Deb since she was in Nashville for the CMA's.  

Then there was some dancing - see pictures below.  Griffin did a great job and is never shy about performing.  I love that about him.  (I think he gets it from his Aunt Ki Ki - tee hee!)

The best part came at the end of the program.  All students and teachers were invited to submit a photo of a veteran in their family.  It touched my heart when my sister told me Griffin had asked to submit my Dad's Army photo and a photo of my brother-in-law (Michelle's husband, Tom) in his Navy uniform.  Griffin was so proud of his family Veterans.

I watched the slide show excited to see my Dad's photo.  However, I didn't expect the tears to start rushing in.  The second the photo was displayed my Mom and I both broke down.  Veteran's Day was one of my Dad's favorite holidays.  Dad would close his office and was frustrated when schools didn't have the holiday off.  He always saw it important to honor veterans.  A lesson I will always remember.

My Dad's Army Photo

Tommy B's Navy Photo (he hasn't aged a bit)

My Mom and I both commented how much Dad would have loved the program Griffin's school put on for Veteran's Day.  I wish Dad was here to see how proud Griffin was of his "Papaw Mike".  I wish he was here to stand with the other Grandfathers in the audience when the students sang the Army song.  Needless to say, I sure felt his absence tonight.

I am thankful for the time my Dad served in the military.  As a result, he taught my sisters and I to respect our military - young and old.  My Dad and I never did agree on politics.  However, one thing we agreed on was to honor our military men and women and be thankful for their service.  So, today I thought of my Dad a little more than usual...thankful for this lesson.  

Happy Veteran's Day.  

Jim, Deb, and Kevin on the CMA's!

I just wanted to remind everyone to catch the CMA's tomorrow (Wednesday) on ABC. 

 Deb, Jim, and Kevin will be accepting their second CMA award!  

Congrats to the Morning Show for scoring another CMA!

By the way, Deb just text me and said they will be sitting in the 4th row!  She will be in emerald green - make sure you look for her!  :)

Its the Holidays!

Its the holidays.

Whether we are ready or not - the stores have beautiful decorations on display and clerks are humming along to "Winter Wonderland" when handing us a receipt.

I am more than excited to teach Jackson all about Santa Claus ( he can say Ho, Ho, Ho - sort of), our Christmas tree and decorations are out of storage and ready for some attention, and I love hearing my niece tell me she wants EVERY item in the American Girl catalog (and truly mean it).  

But I can't help but think this will be my second holiday season without my Dad.  Some how my Dad made the holidays better.  He had a sparkle in his eye from the minute we cut the Turkey on Thanksgiving until he helped the men win our annual Trivial Pursuit (Men vs. Women) game Christmas night.  He loved the holidays.  Probably because it was filled with family get-togethers that we knew better then to miss.  

As I approach my second holiday season without my Dad, I will remember the wonderful traditions he taught me and pass them onto Jackson - just as he would have.  So bring on the shopping, the Christmas tree lights, the holiday parties, the meals that aren't on anyone's diet.  Bring on Santa Claus and his reindeer, holiday cards with pictures of friends, gift wrapping late at night, and most importantly - sweet family memories.  All the things my Dad loved!

Jackson's 18-Month Photos

Last week, we met up with Brand Photography to capture Jackson's 18-month photos.  He was in such a good mood.  Jackson didn't miss a chance to "perform" for Brooke and Dan and even showed them his dimples a couple of times.  :)

Brooke and Dan Brand posted a sneak peek of Jackson's photos on their blog (click here) if you would like to check them out!  I can't wait to see the rest!

P.S.  I love the one above - it was when we first started the photo shoot.  He must have been contemplating whether or not to smile.  

Get Well Soon, John!

We wanted to wish John at big GET WELL SOON!

John had outpatient surgery today.  All is well and he will be cheered up by Jackson tomorrow....Just what the doctor ordered!

We love you, John!  Take Care!

Go Yankees!

We are rooting for the Yankees!

Jackson has enjoyed watching the World Series with his Dad. They sit on the couch and Justin teaches Jackson words like bat, ball, strike, base, safe, and GO!

If only he could stay up later than two innings! :)

Happy 18-Month Birthday, Jackson!

He's just getting too big!  

Ummmm....its just Grandma Evy and Grandma Charsh!

I just had to share this fun photo from Halloween. 

My Grandma and Mom got into the spirit of the holiday.  It was great fun. 

Jackson went to hug Grandma Evy before leaving and ended up with one of her "black warts" on his face.  It took Justin and I a while to realize exactly what it was.  We are still laughing!

We Hope Your Halloween Was A Thriller!

Halloween has come and gone.  But what fun we had.

Most of you know I made Jackson's costume this year.  It was important to me to make it myself...and I'm so glad I did.

As you can tell he was Michael Jackson.  I thought it would be a fun costume and I figured Justin would love it too!    

I owe a huge Thank You to my Mom who helped keep me on task, helped explain sewing, and helped when the project became too overwhelming (all the credit for the sequined glove goes to my Mom - I lost my patience).  I have had so much fun with my Mom the past few weeks while working on the costume.  We had a lot of laughs and even shed a few tears when our conversation would turn to my Dad.  I asked my Mom what Dad would think of me making Jackson's costume.  She said, "I think he would have been very proud - but I'm not sure what he would think of his Grandson in sequins from head to toe!"  :)  Thanks for everything Mom!  

A big thanks to everyone who opened their door to let Jackson trick-or-treat.  He was a champ and never fussed about the costume.  He even told me his sequined socks were "Pretty".  We have officially retired the socks!  :)

Will I make Jackson's costume again next year?  You bet!  ....But my Mom says we are starting in July!  ;)

Check out the video below of some photos of Jackson trick or treating!  You will find some photos of my nieces, nephews, my cousin's daughter, and Baby Maddy McCord (monkey).  All of these fun little ones helped make Jackson's Halloween fantastic!

Jackson's First Pumpkin Carving

Jackson was too little to take part in carving a pumpkin last year.  

This year, I thought he would show a little more interest.  What I forgot to factor in was the fact that he would have to get dirty - something my "little pumpkin" doesn't enjoy!

The pictures tell the story...

"Hey Dad, what are you doing to my pumpkin?"

"Oh look, Mom is taking my picture - CHEESE!"

"You want me to put my hand in there?"

"Ummmm....can someone get me a wipe!"

Snack Break - "Keep working, Dad"

Justin needed some instructing...

Then he needed a little more instructing...

The finished product

"You stay out here, Pumpkin!"

"Mom of the Year" reason #137

Motherhood is an adventure.  A fun one.  A humble one.  One that teaches you to laugh...even at yourself.  

I am often quoting reasons why I won't be winning "Mother of the Year" this year.  Always saying, "there is always next year."  Maybe by the time Jackson is in his 30's - I might stand a chance!  :)

Last week - I had another "Mom of the Year" moment...

I had changed Jackson's diaper just before leaving for pre-school.  I ran into my bathroom for just a quick check in the mirror and some last minute lip-gloss.  

I found Jackson playing with his toys and we both rushed to the car.  

Our day went on as usual.  

When I arrived to pick him up, Ms. Arthur explained that they changed Jackson's diaper 2 hours after he had arrived -- only to find that he had no diaper on to begin with.  Yep!  That's right folks - I sent my 18 month old child to pre-school without a diaper.  

HOWEVER - I know I put a diaper on him.  One of Jackson's latest tricks is to reach into his pants and rip his diaper out.  He will put the diaper in the trash and just go on about his way "Free Willy" style.  Super!

I explained this to Ms. Arthur (who I was certain thought I "forgot" to put a diaper on him).  She laughed and explained that a lot of children this age have a habit like this.  She did say they never found the diaper and she was certain he had taken it off before leaving our house (probably when I was in the bathroom). She politely suggested I start having Jackson wear a onsie so he can't get to the diaper.

I was thinking more like duct tape!  :)

Again - Mother of the Year!

P.S.  Do I get points if he was completely dry after two hours without a diaper?

Rough Week!

Jackson isn't feel so great - but the Elmo slippers help!

(Elmo Slippers courtesy of Grandma Penny)

We have had a rough few days.

Justin came home from California just in time for Jackson to start having flu symptoms.  After a trip to the pediatrician, it was confirmed...Jackson had the flu.

So we have been battling Jackson's flu symptoms and everything that comes along with the flu - including Jackson sleeping in our bed each night.  Our smiling little boy hasn't been himself and has needed a little extra love.  After two days home from pre-school, I think Jackson is on the mend and will be back at school in time for "snack-time" (his favorite) in the morning.  

In the middle of helping Jackson get better, Justin found himself at the emergency room.  Justin had surgery a year ago on his finger.  After the trip to the ER and an office visit to the surgeon who performed his surgery, Justin received the news that he has a serious infection in his finger due to a possible suture that was left in his finger when they removed them a year ago. 

Needless to say - Gross.

Yesterday, Justin had his entire fingernail removed to completely clean the infection.  Justin has asked that I spare all of you the photo.  Take my word - it is more than disgusting!  

So we are hoping our week gets better.  Justin is on some good pain killers - so at least he is entertaining.  :)

We hope your week is going well!

Welcome to the World, Miss Lily Kate!

Justin and I had the pleasure of meeting Miss Lily Kate Morgan today.

Lily Kate is the brand new daughter of our good friends, JT and Kellie Morgan.

Lilly Kate is just a few days old and it was already obvious that she is winning the hearts of those around her.  Her Mom and Dad are in love with her every detail.  Her Uncle Joe and Aunt Lora (also very good friends of ours) are her very own paparazzi - snapping a photo every time she moves.  

While we are all very lucky to have Lily Kate in our lives, Lily Kate lucked out as well.  She is surrounded with such loving people who will cherish her every moment.

Best Wishes to JT, Kellie, and Baby Lily Kate.  Thank you for sharing her with us today!

Side Note:  I have to share the most adorable story.  JT set Kellie up with a Facebook account right away so she could share Lily Kate's photos with family and friends.  Uncle Joe sits by the computer in the hospital room and reads the new parents all the comments and well wishes.  Just another sign that Lily Kate is already loved by so many.  It was touching to see the excitement surrounding this new family!!

If you look close - you can see her first hair-bow!

Justin Is Home!

Justin is home...and no one could be happier than Jackson (though I'm pretty happy, too).

Jackson and I were at the airport at midnight to greet Justin.  Jackson was sporting his PJ's along with a not-so-quiet chant of "DAD-DY" - over and over and over....

Until finally.....Jackson saw his "DAD-DY".

Welcome Home Justin!  We missed you!