Just Call Me Betsy Ross!

Mom and I before we started the pattern

Jackson taking his own measurements 

Just call me Betsy Ross...or just plain CRAZY!

I have decided to "make" Jackson's Halloween costume this year.

I have great memories of my Mom making my Halloween costumes each year.  My favorite costume was the poodle skirt and matching shirt...along with a matching outfit for my poodle, Midnight!  Midnight and I won the Costume contest that year in Chesterfield.  Thanks, Mom!

I want Jackson to have great memories like this too.  So, I decided it was only right that I start learning how to sew and creating great costumes just like my Mom once did.  So perhaps my Mom was a Home-economics teacher - and I'm not.  But I took Home-economics and sewed a pillow once.  Does that count?

So the project has started.  I bought fabric and a pattern.  My Mom came over (Thanks, Mom) to show me how to cut out the pattern.  I expected that part to be the easiest...  Let's just say I'm a little concerned about how the rest of this project is going to go.  But I'm not going to give up - or change my mind.  

If Jackson shows up on your door-step with his trick-or-treat bag  - please give him candy no matter what.  It isn't his fault his Mom isn't Martha Stewart....

Note:  My sister, Michelle, tells me that there are two types of kids who wear home-made costumes:  1.  Kids whose Mom's can sew and 2.  Kids who look stupid.  Let's hope Jackson will fall into category #1.

I will post pictures of the final product after Jackson gets to trick-or-treat with many of you. :)

A Lazy Sunday

Jackson enjoying his lazy Sunday

Lazy Sunday's are the best!

Stay tuned to hear about our trip to the park and my trials of making Jackson's "home-made" Halloween costume. 

For now, I will continue being lazy and root for the Colt's from bed!  :)

A Souvenir From NYC!

Justin recently visited New York City for work.  Like any good Daddy, he brought home a souvenir for Jackson.  Check it out! 

Jackson wasn't enjoying this "photo shoot"

I Stand Corrected...

It has been politely pointed out to me (see comments on the last post) that Olivia was actually 8 when she spoke at my Dad's funeral.

This is correct. She turned nine a month later.

Olivia should be an attorney - or a human encyclopedia! :)

Happy 10th Birthday, Olivia!

Olivia and her little sister - Maddie

Aunt Deb made the cup-cakes

Olivia with our gift - a personalized cosmetic bag :)

Can you believe Olivia is 10!

Those of you who knew me ten years ago can remember how excited I was to become an aunt when my sister, Michelle, gave birth to her first daughter. In fact, I'm not sure I met a soul that didn't hear about Olivia. Justin and I both were smitten with our brand new niece immediately. We quickly became Aunt "Kicken" and Uncle "Ustin" (even though Justin wasn't really an "Uncle" quite yet).

Ten years later, not much has changed. Uncle Justin - is officially an Uncle; but even though Olivia can say my name now - she still calls me "Aunt Kicken"...and I wouldn't have it any other way.

We haven't missed much in the 10 years. Justin and I have always attended Olivia's spring recitals, cheerleading competitions, school plays, t-ball games, her first official school bus ride (we both cried), and have even helped with homework (though its getting a little complicated for Aunt Kicken and Uncle Justin).

After turning 10 this year, I realized how soon we will be watching her go to prom, get her driver's license, and even pack for college. This makes us more than happy to be Aunt and Uncle and not Mom and Dad. Though, I know our day is just around the corner.

Olivia has made the past 10 years sweeter than I can imagine. I can't wait to watch her in the next 10 years.

A note about Papaw Mike:

It just isn't right to celebrate Olivia's 10th birthday without a mention of my Dad. As I have told you before, my Dad celebrated being a "Papaw" more than anyone I know.

I can't imagine what he would have said about Olivia turning 10. He probably would have told her she wasn't allowed to get any older. She would respond with a sweet smile and say "But, Papaw..."

Boy, I wish I could have seen that conversation today. Olivia was my folks' first grandchild - I know she held a special place in my Dad's heart - as he does hers. Why else would a 9-year old little girl speak at her Papaw's funeral?

Theirs was a sweet relationship to watch. One I admired.

Brush Your Teeth!

Some parents have to pin their toddler down to brush his/her teeth.

Not us.  In fact, I caught Jackson in the bathroom on his own taking care of this duty...

Problem was - he went straight for the fudge striped cookies right afterwards.  Hmmmm....

I'm on Pacifier Patrol!!!

Jackson has grown quite attached to his pacifier.  He even has his favorite (seriously - he will take one out of his mouth and trade it for his "favorite").

About 4 weeks ago, I decided it was time to start breaking away from the pacifier.  However, it seemed the minute I decided that - he was very sick and in the hospital.  So, I used the excuse that he wasn't feeling well to put off this horrible task of taking away the pacifier.

Now, he is feeling better and I am determined to break him of this habit.  However, I'm the only one.  Justin hands Jackson his pacifier about as often as I hand him a snack.  And it seems that the pacifier is a Grandparent favorite.  Either that - or they just can't tell him no!  :)

So...I'm officially on pacifier patrol...I am watching all Grandparents, Aunts, Pre-school Teachers,...and even one push- over Daddy!

Any tips on how to break Grandparents of the pacifier?  :)

Go Colts!

We wanted to share some pictures of Jackson in his new Colts jersey.  Can you believe it is a 2T??

We searched for a Marlin JACKSON jersey, but they don't make them in toddler sizes.  So, We went with Dallas Clark's jersey because that was the jersey my Dad had.  So Jackson is cheering for Papa Mike, too.  Except today...he slept through the game. :)

Enjoy the photos!

Congrats to Jim, Deb, and Kevin!

Jim, Deb, Kevin after CMA win in 2007

I wanted to wish my big sister, Deb, and along with her co-hosts, Jim and Kevin "CONGRATS" on their recent CMA Personality of the Year nomination!

Way to go!

I'm keeping my fingers crossed for another win!

Our Old Life???

If I think long and hard I can remember the days when it was just Justin and I.  We slept until the afternoon on Sundays, had cereal for dinner, and never thought twice about a 4-day weekend away somewhere.

As I am typing this, I notice that I am in desperate need of a manicure, my eyebrows could use some attention, and let's not even discuss the sit-ups I should be doing this very second.

Last night, I missed the premiers of 90210 and Melrose Place because I was so tuned in to our latest Handy Manny DVD (he won the citizen of the year award).

Needless to say, our life sure has changed.  But only for the better.  I say this at the end of a very long day.  

My day started with Jackson wiggling his way out of a diaper change only to "smoosh" his dirty diaper all over my pajamas.  I never flinched.  I just finished up his diaper change and jumped in the shower.

My day ended with a great family dinner.  Justin has been working so hard lately that it is a special occasion for the three of us to have dinner together.  We celebrated at Bob Evans (it was my turn to pick).  After a great dinner together, I picked Jackson up out of the high chair.  Two steps away from the table, Jackson vomited all over himself, me and the floor.  Again, I didn't flinch (though Justin did).   I rushed Jackson to the bathroom, stripped him down and loaded him in the car with nothing on but a diaper.  What is a Mom to do?

At the end of this long day, I don't long for our old life.  I couldn't be happier with the joy Jackson brings to our family.  

Of course, my nails, eyebrows, and sit-ups are on my agenda for tomorrow...and Justin and I will always find time to be together.  But tonight I am more than thankful for the little boy asleep in the next room.  

I am thankful for ALL that he brings into our life...

...perhaps the people at Bob Evans don't feel the same.  :)

Jackson is sick...AGAIN!

It seems like Jackson has been sick from the minute we walked into Day Care that very first day. However, the doctor says most of it has been viral (even the pneumonia) and isn't contagious. So he isn't getting it at school - there goes that theory.

At any rate, Jackson is sick again. On Friday, I thought it was just a cold. Saturday he didn't want to eat much. I figured it was because we were at a party at the McCord home - Jackson prefers spending all of his time "kissing" Baby Maddy (and I'm not kidding). Sunday Jackson spent the night with Aunt Deb and Uncle Greg - and he was up at 3 a.m. with a fever. I felt terrible - but not as bad as Jackson (or Aunt Deb with no sleep).

I am afraid Jackson is still fighting the viral Pneumonia. We are heading back to the doctor tomorrow. I don't think we will be back at the hospital. We are a step a head and have already begun the at-home breathing treatments.

Keep you fingers crossed that we are home tomorrow after the apt...and not in the hospital again.

Speaking of our stay in the hospital. Ashley, Justin's sister, sent me some photos she snapped while we were in the hospital. I thought I would share. Even though he was so sick - Jackson still managed to be adorable in his hospital Pjs. :)

The machine in his hands tracked his oxygen levels - he hated it!

Happy Birthday, Grandpa John!

We want to wish Justin's Dad, John, a very happy birthday!

John is a fantastic Grandpa and father ...And he's not to shabby of a father-in-law! :)

Justin is always enlisting his Dad to help us with miscellaneous projects. John never says no!

Just recently, he even volunteered to help my Grandma hook up her television. She needs it fixed before Dancing with the Stars starts this season! :)

John truly is one of the nicest people I know.

We are all so lucky to have him in our lives!

Happy Birthday, John! We hope you enjoy your day!

Where is Handy Manny!

As I have already told you, Jackson is a huge fan of the Disney show Handy Manny. 

 

My friend, Jessica, gave Jackson his very own Handy Manny tool box for his birthday.  It is one of Jackson's favorites.  The infamous tool box usually travels with Jackson wherever he goes.  If we mention the tool box at home - he must run and find it immediately.  

Sometimes Justin and I ask Jackson where the toy is - JUST FOR LAUGHS.  His immediate reaction and insistence on finding it is hilarious. 

Tonight, I tried to get it on video.

P.S.  We're working on getting rid of the pacifier.  However, after 8:30 - it is a lost cause!  I'm not sure who is winning this battle!  Wish us luck!

Bring on the Football!

This weekend, Jackson and I took in my Nephew's football game.  I promised Griffin a few weeks ago that I would be at his SECOND game of the season.  I knew I couldn't make the first one and was hoping to be able to make the next game.  

I called Deb to check in on time and location on Friday.  Deb mentioned that Griffin had told her that I PROMISED I would be at the second game.  This kid doesn't forget anything!  I didn't mind...I was really looking forward to it.

Jackson and I piled in the car - along with his Notre Dame Football that Uncle Greg gave him before he even arrived into this world - and headed for some little league football.

The game was lots of fun!  I laughed seeing my sister cringe at each time Griffin (or any kid for that matter) was at the bottom of the tackle.  Griffin's brother Hayden even kept Jackson and I entertained at half-time.  He is half-time show all in himself - he cracks me up!

Griffin looks so big in his "full pads" and even completed a "quaterback sneak!"  

I told Justin that night...it is hard to believe that our little guy could be out there in a few years scoring touchdowns... or more like playing linebacker!  :)

Enjoy some photos from the big game!

Jackson, Kristen, Griffin, and Haden

Jackson and Hayden at Half Time

Jackson watching the game (he kept running onto the field!)

Griffin and Coach Pope - Greg is the Assistant Coach!

Congrats to Jill and Russ!

Quick Post:

Justin and I returned home late last night.

We were visiting our friends Jill and Russ in the hospital.

Their precious baby boy was born August 25. He is adorable.

Mom and Dad are also doing well.

They are over the moon about their baby boy, William, just as they should be.

Congrats to Jill and Russ - Baby William is perfect!

Feeling Better...Much Better!

Jackson is feeling so much better.

Thank you to everyone who has called or e-mailed us to ask how he is doing

(and for checking on Mommy and Daddy too).

Here are a few photos I snapped tonight.

I thought I'd share them to show that he is almost back to being the smiling Jackson that we all know and love!

P.S. Tonight, Jackson actually pooped in the tub while I was giving him a bath.

Of course, I snapped a photo...but Justin said I must spare all of you from looking at it. :)

Happy Birthday, Deb!

Happy Birthday, Deb!

Monday is my sister's birthday.

Justin, Jackson, and I just returned from a family celebration in her honor. Our time together tonight was full of fun stories and laughter that reminded me why we all love her so much!

Deb is always the one sending me cards or nice e-mails when life gets me down or when I have a need to celebrate. In fact, I recently found a card from her that she sent to my dorm room my first year in college wishing me well...one that I have kept all these years!

A couple of years ago Deb asked me to join her at the CMA awards as she and her co-host accepted their first CMA award as Radio Personalities of the Year. I was so excited to be at the big event - amongst all the country stars I listen to on the radio. While Deb and I still laugh about me shoving snacks in my purse while back stage (hey - I was 3 months pregnant), how I made her help me HUNT Carrie Underwood down so I could meet her, and how we were both taller than Kenny Chesney even with our heels off...still my best memory from that night is seeing my big sister accept her big award!!! I was and still am so proud!

Deb has a great sense of humor and is often our family comedian. Sometimes we are laughing with her..and there are often times we are laughing at her (the funniest stuff happens to her). I admire the way Deb is an open-book and is willing to share the good with the bad. She never minds sharing her stories about loosing her keys, leaving milk in the car, or how the starbucks-guy knows her by name.

Deb is a great mother, sister, and friend. I admire the way she

manages to be all three and so much more!

I want to wish Deb a very happy birthday! I hope

you enjoy your day and feel loved all day through!

First Hospital Stay

We are just returning from the hospital.

Jackson had his first overnight stay in a hospital.

He was treated for Pneumonia and a Asthma Attack.

He was a trooper....Justin and I tried to be troopers.

I will post more later.  For now, I must tend to a toddler who seems to be on the mend.

P.S.  Thanks so much for all the phone calls, texts, and e-mails wishing Jackson a quick recovery!

Family, Friends, and a lot of Fun!

Wow. Is the weekend over already?

Justin and I had a packed weekend full of visits with family and friends. We were so lucky to get to visit with such great people all weekend. Justin and I are so blessed to have such great family and friends.


So here is the run down of our weekend:


Friday-


My nephews, Griffin and Hayden, came to visit for the evening. These two boys are full of energy and enough one liners to fill a comedy club. Justin and I were constantly laughing. Whether is was Hayden telling us his mother has been threatening to wash his mouth out with vinegar - only because he really doesn't mind soap or Griffin offering to share his arcade tickets with his younger brother - and then only gave him 2. The final count was Griffin 35 - Hayden 5. Seems fair. We had a great time putt-putting, eating pizza, playing in the arcade, and even swimming when the pool was clearly CLOSED. It was a great visit and Jackson, Justin, and I were sad to see them leave.


Saturday-


Early Saturday morning, we loaded up the car with swim suits and towels (and a million other things) and headed to the Weller cabin. Once a year, Tom and Paula Weller along with Stacey Bowman (Weller) open up their cabin to our group of friends from high school. In the past, we have made it a girls weekend. I love this weekend! It is so fun to catch up with everyone and laugh about old memories. This year we added another event at the Weller cabin - Family Day. Most of our families are growing and we stay up to date by blogs or facebook. But having a day where we all came together with husbands and children was so fun! Not to mention - Jackson had his first boat ride (Tom even let Jackson sit in the driver's seat - Thanks, Tom!), swam in the lake, and flirted with Little Miss Cami Bowman for the first of what I'm sure will be many times! It was so great to visit with everyone! Girls weekend is scheduled for a few months from now! Can't wait!


We left the Weller Cabin a littler early to make it to Indy in time to get Jackson to Grandma Penny and Grandpa John - and make it to meet friends for dinner. We met Kristin, Aaron, Amanda, Jill, and Russ to celebrate Kristin's 30th birthday! It was good food, great company and lots of laughs. This group also went to a movie (something we rarely get to do anymore) and saw "The Goods"...so funny! Let's just say there was a lot of loud laughing that embarrassed Justin!


Justin and I both ended Saturday by commenting how lucky we are to have such great friends!


Sunday-


Sunday morning we picked Jackson up from the Bixler's and loaded the wagon, diaper bag, camera, and a spritzer bottle (it was hot) and headed to the Indiana State Fair. I was excited for Jackson to see the animals and ride the rides...okay, so I was excited for a lemon shake-up and a corn dog too. :) Jackson loved the horses, he didn't know what to think of the pigs and goats, and he LOVED the rides. Let me just say, that I can't believe I have a child that his tall enough to ride the rides at the fair (so maybe we spiked his hair really tall today to add a couple inches). Jackson loved this Bee ride and of course, the Merry-Go-Round! Jackson also tried Cotton Candy for the first time. Justin handed him a piece, he tried it, and handed it back (half chewed). Who doesn't like Cotton Candy? I also made sure to sneak in a cup of ice cold tomato juice from the Red Gold barn...it was one of my Dad's State Fair favorites!


We rushed back so Jackson could have a nap (me too) and we could attend a family cookout at The Boyd house. Michelle and Tom invited my family over to cookout, swim, and catch-up. It was so nice to visit, laugh, and watch Jackson enjoy the pool - he is starting to love the water!

Below is a slideshow of a whirlwind weekend! It was busy- but so fun! Enjoy the photos!

Happy 30th Birthday, Kristin!

Kristin, Kristen, and Amanda at FC homecoming

Justin and I want to post some birthday wishes for our good friend, Kristin Charles. Today, Kristin joins the rest of us (except Justin - he is a baby) as we make 30 the new 20!

Kristin and I met in college and have great memories of our time at FC. However, as the years have flown by, Kristin and I have grown closer. I cherish my friendship with Kristin, Amanda, and Jill - as the four of us have helped each other keep laughing during some tough times, and helped each other embrace the good things life has handed us. These girls are great!

Each month we meet for dinner at least once. We call Kristin our "cruise director" as she is always e-mailing us about where and when our next Girls Night Out will be. I look forward to her e-mails and to our get-togethers that she organizes.

Kristin has a great sense of humor and is always keeping me laughing. She has a way to make me laugh when I don't want to - yet I always know she is sincere and only wants to see me smile! Kristin is a great mother, wife, sister, and friend and we are all lucky to have her!!!

Kristin,

I hope you enjoy your special day!

I wish I could give you a big hug to tell you how much you are loved!

Hugs,
Kristen

Pudding + Spoon = FUN!

Jackson is learning how to use a spoon and a fork...in fact he INSISTS on using them.

We had been practicing with apple sauce.  But, last night I let Jackson practice with pudding.  

Needless to say, Jackson had pudding everywhere but his mouth!  :)

I will capture this great adventure on video soon!  Stay tuned...

Heat Wave!

Finally, it feels like summer has arrived!

The 90 degree weather has even forced Jackson into the pool...something he has been a bit hesitant of this summer.  

I think he even enjoyed himself...

Dear Dad,

Dear Dad,

Today marks an entire year since I got to pick up a phone and tell you about my day or Jackson's latest achievement.  It is hard to believe you never saw him roll over, let alone see him walk and talk like he is today.  You would laugh if you were here to know that his favorite word is "snack"...just like his Papaw Mike.  

I often think about how fitting it is that the last time I spoke to you I was calling for your help. I was lost and needed you to help me find my way to Indianapolis from a detour.  You immediately knew how to help and your directions were a success.  Had I known that was the last time I would talk to you, I would have told you how thankful I was for those directions and the countless other times I had leaned on you.  

This past year has been harder than I could ever imagine.  Yet I still sit here today with happiness in my heart.  Partly because of the little boy asleep on my lap right now, partly because of family and friends, and partly because I know that is what you would have wanted. 

I try to live my life the way I think you would approve of...but deep down I know that you just wanted happiness for all of us.  So, even though missing you is the hardest thing I have ever done...I will keep going.  

I will keep living, loving, and laughing just the way you taught me...

I miss you...and love you even more.

Kris

Jackson's First Lovers Quarrel

Today Jackson had his first "Lovers Quarrel" at school.

Yes, funny...but very true.

When I picked him up today I saw "the dent" in his forehead right away.

The teacher explained what happened.

She explained that Jackson and one of the triplet girls were having a long "embrace."

I chuckled...but she was serious. She went on to explain the the little girl was done "embracing," but Jackson wasn't. Jackson wanted another hug and ran after her. As he was running, he fell and hit his head on a toy.

Thus, the dent on his head.

I hope she was worth it!

The teacher explained to me that she thinks Jackson is going "love the ladies"...I smiled and said,...."just like his Daddy."

Check out "The Dent"...it isn't a bump...it is a dent!

So now I'm really curious?...

Ok...here is the deal.

I've been blogging for a little over a year. I love it. It is fun to be able to share our lives with the people we love...friends and family.

I know most of the people who read this. Or, at least I think I do.

For example, I know Lori from work checks in on the blog about twice a week. I know friends from college do the same. I know friends from high school are often catching up with our busy lives (like when we are moving next) by reading the blog. I even know that friends of friends read the blog. For example, I know Sara's friend, Kara, checks in from Wisconsin every now in then. I know our friend's parents even take a peek sometimes...I love it . It is such a neat way to share our joy in raising Jackson.

How do I know all the people read the blog? I'll admit it. I track it. I don't have names, but I have the business names and locations...I like to look see every once in a while just to make sure no-one from the Terre Haute Federal Prison is checking in on Justin, Jackson, and I. :)

But...in all this tracking...I have one person I can't figure out. I don't know anyone who works for the company and don't know many people from this city either.

So....If you are the reader from Throttle Design in Carmel, IN....please let me know. I'm sure you are a friend or a friend of a friend...can you please just ease my mind!?! Who are you?

Why am I paranoid? I just received this clip from a friend...and now I just have to know.
http://www.cnn.com/video/#/video/us/2009/08/02/wcvb.ma.kid.for.sale.wcvb

Happy Birthday, Cory!

Still friends after all these years...

Justin and I want to wish our friend, Cory, a very Happy 30th Birthday.

This past weekend we were able to celebrate with him.

It was great to see the whole "group" together. Summertime is so busy for everyone and it was nice to take a break from the usual routine and see good friends. Justin and I both left wishing we could do that more often! :)

A big thanks to Cory's parents, Patty and Larry, for hosting all of us. It was great fun!

Happy Birthday, Cory!

Need a laugh?

Need a laugh?  I do (read post below to see why).

Justin's Dad recently downloaded an old "home movie" from Justin's high-school years.

This video was taken at the Highland High School Cheer annual banquet.  This "co-ed" squad was the entertainment for the evening.....and for many years later thanks for John Bixler video taping the event. 

Please notice that Justin is the short one, Jake Pinkerton is the tall one, and Cory Riggs is also in there...all still great friends today.

To all the HHS cheerleaders reading this....its funny - but oh so true!  They got us down - even to the awards ceremony!  :)  Justin needs to work on his jumps!  

Enjoy!

Click the link below to view and laugh! 

CheerBanquet
http://gallery.me.com/bixler4647/100060

Day 2 - Not So Great!

Ok...so Day 2 of Pre-school didn't go as good as the first. I had expected this. I think it didn't go well for a few reasons. I think it turns out to be a longer day than Jackson is used to. Jackson is awake earlier and is used to two cat-naps a day. At pre-school he is asked to take one long nap.

It is just a change to his normal routine.

I also think Jackson is missing his Daddy. One bright side of Justin loosing his job this past January was that he got to me home with Jackson for almost 8 months. They are best buddies and I know Jackson is missing him.

Jackson's day didn't go terrible, but he was in a terrible mood when I got to school. I took one look at him and knew he was tired. We said good-bye to the teacher and to the triplets (his girlfriends) and we were out the door. We got to the car and then I started thinking I had picked up the wrong child. This child started kicking, screaming, and even scratching his way out of his car seat. I was sweating trying to fight him into the seat. Where was Jackson - this was not my son!

I was too busy realizing that Jackson had ripped my dress to notice that all of the other parents were staring at us.

By the next time I took a break from fighting Jackson into the seat, I realized all of the teachers were heading to their cars. I'm pretty sure they won't be honoring me as "Mom of the Year" anytime soon.

I decided to walk Jackson to the ice cream parlor next door. I know I shouldn't have "rewarded" his behavior, but I this point I was hot - and wanted some ice cream. As I sat down with Jackson - we both took a deep breath. Just then, my friend Sara McCord (who I had chatted with in the middle of Jackson's breakdown) called to check on us. The next thing I know she and her husband, Adam, pulled up to help.

Jackson went right to Adam. I think I even saw a SMILE at one point as Adam gently put Jackson in his car seat. Adam and Sara must think I made all of this up...I just watched with amazement.

A big thanks to Adam and Sara for coming to my rescue!

Adam and Sara,

I'll just meet you at the Pre-school every day about 5:30 - sound good? :)

Here is to hoping tomorrow goes better.....

P.S. I did fix the song in the slideshow in the post below. Notice the song says "I get in my seat" - Jackson must not have heard that part....

First Day of Pre-School!

We survived the first day of pre-school. And...when I say "we", I mean Justin and I.

Jackson did great.

He wasn't too excited about getting up earlier than usual. He is used to sleeping in and enjoying a "late" breakfast. Today, it was a quick bowl of oatmeal and some milk.

Then...we were off.

Justin and I each had reservations about how the "drop-off" would go. But that was set aside by our pure excitement for Jackson to start pre-school. We know that this is the right thing for Jackson and for our family.

We both feel very lucky to have moved back to the north-side so we can send him to a pre-school that we are familiar with. Jackson is attending the same pre-school that all of my nieces and nephews have attended. It is so nice knowing that he is getting such great care.

When we arrived at the school, Jackson insisted on walking in by himself. He wouldn't let me hold him. I have to admit, he walked in like - "I have arrived!" While Justin and I were still a little unsure about leaving him.

When we walked into his classroom, Ms. Paula met us with a smile and showed us Jackson's cubby already labeled with his name. Justin and I gave her the diapers, wipes, and extra clothes we were asked to supply. Ms. Paula kind of laughed when we also had TWO blankets for nap time and when we asked that he get neosporin if he were to scrap a knee - but shook her head as if she understood.

Then it was time to say goodbye. Jackson was cautiously "talking" to the other children. Justin and I lingered a bit to watch and then Justin looked at me and said quickly, "we need to leave." I quickly noticed Justin's eyes had filled up with tears. We said our good-byes and were out the door....Jackson never cried, but did look a little confused. When we got to the car, I asked Justin to drive around back so I could peak in Jackson's classroom. Is it considered stalking if he is my own son? :) Justin then announced he would need McDonald's - he needed comfort food. Jackson was probably having a great time - while Mom and Dad drowned there sorrows in an Egg McMuffin!

I called twice yesterday to check on Jackson. Ms. Paula said he ate well and even took a two hour nap. Yep - my little boy who only naps in my bed with us cuddled up next to him - napped on a COT all by himself. I think he may have us fooled at home....we thought he only napped with us! :)

Justin and I were both so excited to pick Jackson up yesterday. We peeked in the window to watch him play. He was enjoying some time with the other children. But once he saw us - he was done. He was ready to go. He quickly said "bye-bye" to Ms. Paula and we were out the door.

Jackson talked all the way home as if to tell us all about what he learned that day. We loved listening!

Here goes Day 2. Wish us luck!

Check out our slideshow of Jackson's first day!

Happy Birthday, Michelle!

I wanted to take a minute to wish my oldest sister, Michelle, a Happy Birthday!


Michelle is celebrating her 40th birthday today.


Michelle and I are very close. That is no secret.


I have missed living a short drive's distance from her these past few years. I am lucky to be back in Fishers living so close!


For the time I lived Bloomington, Michelle is how I passed the time for the long drive. I would dial her up as I was leaving the office in Indy and would chat the whole way home. I have the cell phone bill to prove it!


Now that we are living closer - I love being able to swing by her house during the week for advice, a laugh, or to use her pool (tee hee).


What can I say?

She's my big sister...and I couldn't live without her!


Happy Birthday, Michelle! I hope you enjoy your day!


Lots of love,

Your YOUNGEST Sister!

Turning 30...

Today is my 30th birthday.

It is my first birthday without my Dad here to celebrate.

I didn't feel right letting the day go by without mentioning that I am thinking of my Dad today. His absence has left a huge void in my special day.

I will miss him on my car ride to work. Any other year, he would have called me as I started my day to wish me a good one. I'm sure he would have had some snappy one-liner about me turning 30 this year. I will miss hearing it.

I will miss him arranging my family "birthday dinner." We would usually celebrate my birthday and my sister Michelle's birthday the same night. Any other year, he would have called us earlier in the week to make sure he and Mom planned a dinner that would please both of us. And...it always did. I probably would have requested his smoked pork chops glazed with orange juice.

I will miss opening his gift...especially his card. While my mom would find a card to capture how proud they were of the adult I had grown to be, my Dad would find a card that captured his quick wit and great sense of humor. I often got cards that mentioned my messy room, terrible driving record, or how I still kept him up at night worrying...which wasn't far from the truth.

So today I am 30. A new chapter in my life has begun. One I wish my Dad was here to see.

In my 30s: I look forward to giving Jackson a sibling (or two), watching my children grow, and teaching them everything my parents taught me (even Cave Man Named Dave). I look forward to spending this next decade with Justin as we finally settle down and find a place to raise our family. I look forward to cherishing old relationships and fostering news ones. I have had a tough year - 29 was tough. Yet, I know there is more to come. More tough days, more great days. I look forward to each...

P.S. I did hear back-fat starts at 30...not looking forward to that. :)