Monday, December 29, 2008

A Holiday Update!

We hope that everyone had a great Christmas. We had an eventful one. It all started when I got home from work on the 23rd. We had a waterfall in our laundry room due to the ice and rain we had for two days. Our landlord came over and had to scrap our roof and then it finally stopped. We lost power on the 23rd at 7:30pm and we didn't come back on until 12 the next day. We took the boys to Christmas Eve lunch at Steak n Shake and then went to the mall to play. They had fun and it allowed us to get our of the hosue and Grandma Marj to get her wrapping done. We went to Danville on Christmas eve and then came home and got the boys ready for Santa to come. Christmas morning was nice and we had a great time with Grandma and Grandpa Lopez and Grandma Marj along with Uncle Matt and Lora and we had breakfast and opened gifts. It was fun. Christmas afternoon we went to Aunt ta-ta's and it was fun to see th boys play with all of their cousins. The boys got way to many gifts and they were exhausted but we had tons of fun. We are sending ouf Christmas cards out late due to the bad weather we had here. Please look for them at the end of this week. Love, Us

Tuesday, December 23, 2008

Merry Christmas!

From our family to yours we want to wish you a safe and merry Christmas! Please remember the reason for the season!

Friday, December 19, 2008

So long ago...

It has been so long since I typed something and for that I am sorry. Here is a little up date on us. Payton is now on Christmas break and does not go back to school until the 5th of January. He made a lovely ornament for our tree at home. Braxton is done with therapies until the new year. He will get development therapy every other week and speech therapy every week. Both boys are doing great and talking up a storm.

We got an ice storm last night and we are without power going on 14 hours. I am not happy and Jeff has been a saint and has been with the boys all day with out anything to do except play with each other and their toys. Hopefully our power comes on soon. I will let you know.

Monday, December 8, 2008

Monday!

Well all is well in our household. We had a fun but mostly relaxing weekend. We got our tree on Saturday and it was snowing so the boys stayed in the van with Grandpa while Jeff and I picked it out. We got housework done and really just enjoyed the day together yesterday. It was nice to not have anything scheduled.

Wednesday, December 3, 2008

Picture

This is my favorite photo from our vacation. Two of my favorite people in this world. I love you two so much.

December already

Just wanted to wish everyone a happy Decemeber and let you know that our household is slowly getting back to where it should be so that means toys every where and boys running from room to room.

Payton is getting back to normal with the school and loves it. He is a chatter box now and we love it.

Braxton is back to normal and loves everything and he is also a chatter box.

Sometimes I try to remember what it was like when it was Jeff and I and quiet in the house but then I think how our house felt empty and now it is so lively all the time. I know it is late but I didn't talk about what we are thankful for as a family.

We are thankful for all the love and support our family and friends give us. We are thankful for the life we have and the precious time we have as a family to enjoy each other and just have small conversations about nothing. Those are the times I am thankful as a family. We are thankful for a lot more things like how thankful we are that the boys are able to get the education and therapies they need. Well I could go on and on but I think you get the point. I promise I will post some pictures from our trip just have to get the hubby to get them off the memory card first.

Sunday, November 30, 2008

Happy Thanksgiving...I know a little late!

Well we took off for Green Bay on Tuesday and had great weather for the drive. For some reason when we stopped Braxton threw up all over me. It was so much fun. Well we made it to the condo and could see and hear the bay from where we were staying. It was a nice place and perfect for us. Wednesday was a lazy day and we went into Green Bay and went to Shopko...my favorite store. Grandma Marj came and met us for dinner and then we went back to the condo. It was nice spending time with her and the boys loved seeing her. We went out to dinner for Thanksgiving and had a very nice meal. Friday we went and visited Great Grandma and had lunch with her. It was great and we hadn't spent time with her since Great Grandpa had passed away. She was glad to see us and couldn't believe how big the boys had gotten. It was a very lovely visit. Saturday we packed up and came home. Hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving like we did. I will post some pictures of our trip later. Have a great Day!

Friday, November 21, 2008

A long week!!

Sorry we have MIA but we got the flu. We are just getting healthy and will post more later.

Tuesday, November 11, 2008

Braxton moves up!

We finally converted Braxton's crib to a toddler bed. On Saturday we decided it was time and he is so tall I was scared that he would topple over the top of his crib. Thank goodness neither Braxton or Payton were climbers and tried to get out of their cribs. At first I think Payton was more excited than Braxton and kept thanking me. Braxton and Payton both were laying in the bed together. It was so cute. Braxton's first nap time was not successful due to Payton and their friend Kolten letting Braxton out. Night time was successful and ever since then he loves to go to his toddler bed. Braxton loves to climb in and lay down. It is so cute.

It was rough on me because when we moved Payton from his crib to a toddler bed he was 18 months old but I had Braxton growing in my tummy and I knew that I was going to have another baby very soon. This time was different because I know Braxton was my last baby and that we will never use the crib again. I love my boys and I am glad that Braxton is now officially a toddler.

Friday, November 7, 2008

Mommy!

Well for those of you who do not get to spend time with Payton he usually calls me mom. Well lately everything is "mommy". It is so cute. Payton didn't say mom until after he turned two and now for me to hear him "mommy" puts a huge smile on my face.

Payton didn't have school this morning and I got up at 6:00 to get to work by 7. I woke up to him saying "hi mommy" with the biggest smile on his face. I told him to go back to bed but he said no. So I put on his favorite movie CARS and he climbed in bed with Daddy (who was still sleeping). I gave him a kiss goodbye and told him that I had to go to work. I was almost out the bedroom and I hear "stop mommy" I turned around and he had his arms out and said "mommy hug". Well of course this put a smile on my face and I had to go hug him.

For a child that 12 months ago didn't say over 50 words, now he talks all the time. It great to hear him talk and tell us stuff. He is growing up so much.


Braxton's favorite thing is to yell for me from his crib. I usually hear "MOM" "MMMOOOMMM" that means he is ready to get up.

How could these boys not make you smile. They smile all the time.

Oh I we want to put a shout out to our cousin Kegan. He turns 2 today. HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

Monday, November 3, 2008

Happy November!

Well it is November 3rd and life couldn't be better. We are all doing great. We had a great Halloween and it was the first year that I could tell Payton really enjoyed it. Braxton thought he was suppose to eat the candy as he received it. Payton was a great brother and showed him that it is more fun to leave the candy in your bucket. I was so proud of both of them. Thank you Grandma Carol for going with us.

Tuesday, October 28, 2008

Last weekend!

Happy Tuesday night to everyone. It is below freezing and I am happy but sad because I love fall and the changing of the weather but hate it because I knowt here will be snow so very soon. The great news it is suppose to around 65 degrees so we should have a great Halloween. We are going to meet up with our friends Kadince, Kolten and Brayden. We are so excited. Payton can say "trick and treat" so it should be great.

We went to the grade school for their fall festival. We met our friends there and we were all dressed up. Here are a few pictures. Kadince went as a butterfly. Kolten was the lion. Braxton was a green fish and Payton was suppose to be little einstein's rokcet but he didn't want to wear it.



I hope you enjoy the blog and I am working on updating pictures.




Wednesday, October 22, 2008

Good Wednesday Morning!


Well now that I am feeling better I thought I would type more of what has been happening in our household.


We had our yearly goal setting meeting at Payton's school on Monday. It was a great meeting and it is nice to hear how Payton is at school compared to home. He become great friends with Charlie. We are told they do everything together. Payton has improved so much from August and the goals that were set for Payton are right on cue and I know he will exceed all of them. If you haven't heard Payton's vocubulary is growing everyday. Payton gets speech therapy twice a week, occupational therapy once a week and physical therapy once a week. He gets speech therapy because of his verbal apraxia. He gets occupational therapy to get over some of his fears of getting his hands dirty and some other things and physical therapy to help stretch him. When Payton is not in shoes he walks on his toes. This has made him very tight in his achilles/calf region so they are going to work on helping him with this. He has great muscle tone for a 3 year old especially his calves.


Braxton is really starting to talk up a storm. He loves to pretend he is on the phone. He can sit and have a conversation with himself for 10 minutes. It is so cute. Due to Payton's delays Braxton is getting speech and development therapy every week. They come to the house and he gets to have play time with them for an hour. He loves this and we can see the improvement. He was getting occupational therapy but he was doing so well they are only going to see him every 6 months just to make sure he is still doing what he is suppose to be doing at his age.


Both boys are tall and lean. We know where they get the tall from but still trying to figure out the lean aspect. They love playing with each other and getting in trouble together. While Payton is more cautious and ask for permisson before, Braxton is more of ask for forgiveness and doesn't have any fears. Payton doesn't like to be dirty and Jeff and I have nicknamed Braxton "Pig Pen" because he is always dirty...
Well I guess that is all from our house for now. I know we have not posted pictures in awhile so I will try in the next couple of days. I promise.

Monday, October 20, 2008

It's Monday again!

Well it has been awhile since I have blogged anythign and there is good reason for this. Two weeks ago Braxton had to go to the doctor for a viral infection that was making him do unpleasant things. Last Tuesday we had to take Payton to the doctor because we could not get his fever down from 103. Well he had an ear infection and had to stay home from school for two days due to fever. Of course Saturday I started to feel bad with sore throat and then yesterday I woke up with a severe sore throat and a stiff neck. I went to the doctor yesterday and found out that I have a middle ear infection. I got medicine and this morning I have now lost my voice. So it has been an interest few weeks. Hopefully the cycle will stop of one of us being sick every week.

Thursday, October 9, 2008

Backyardigan's

Last night Payton and I went to Backyardigan's live at the Assembly Hall. We had a blast and he really enjoyed it. It didn't start until 7 pm and by the time we got home he was pooped. It was a great experience for both of us.

Sunday, October 5, 2008

One for the record books!

It is after 9 in the morning and all my boys are sleeping. YES YOU READ THAT RIGHT....they are still sound a sleep. So as a mother/wife what am I doing with my time. Well I went out and got a coffee and a newspaper and I am sitting here enjoying the quiet.


Got to go. Payton is up!

Thursday, October 2, 2008

Putting things into perspective.

This post is because I taped Oprah yesterday. It was about the lady who left her 2 year old in the car for 8 hours. For those who didn't see it she was an asst principal at a middle school and it was the first day back for the teachers and her husband who usually takes the girls two daycare and preschool had a dentist appt so he was unable to take the 2 year. Well she was to early to drop her off at the sitters and of course this whole time the little girl is a sleep in the car. She stopped and got donuts. Well she forgot to drop her off and went to school. They showed video tape of her driving to the front doors and unloading her stuff at school. She then got in her car and parked it, not once did she remembered her daughter sleeping in the car. She said that she had a busy day and that she even talked about her daughters with the new teachers and that still did not make her remember she forgot to drop off her daughter. Well at 4 pm one of the teachers walked by the car and saw the little girl. Well you know the end of the story, the little girl passed away.

After I watched last night and I cried of course because I was touched by the story but also had some questions. My first question was did the babysitter not call and ask why they didn't drop the little girl off? I am very fortunate to not have to take my sons to the sitter but if I did everyday and I just didn't show up and didn't call I would think that my sitter would call and make sure that everything was ok. My second question is would I be able to go about my day and even talk about my children and that not jolt my memory of what did or did not happen that morning. I don't know?

So after I watched and they talked about how overwhelmed mothers become. I have been there and looking back I realized that I had put my job (coaching) before everything else. When I was hospitalized to be induced to have Payton I remember having my blackberry next to me and still taking calls from athletes while in labor. After I gave birth to Braxton I was dividing my time between my very sick baby and coaching still. Why would I do this? I look back and wonder how stupid that was. Was I throwing myself into work so I didn't worry about my sick baby? I dont' know? Or was I so overwhelmed with everything that I didn't know when to stop and think about the situation.

As of today I still find myself feeling overwhelmed but I feel that I have a better handle on it. I am not scared to say "I need me time". Do I say it enough, NO, but I say it when I need it the most. So you are probably asking what is the point of my blog entry. Well I am glad you asked. After watching Oprah last night I decided that everyone should step back and re-evaluate their lives and remember what is most important to them. I know I did and my first job is to be a great and loving mother and wife. Putting things into perspective....I feel everyone needs to do this.

Wednesday, October 1, 2008

October already!!!

Hello all and welcome to October. Finally (knocking on wood) I think all the sickness has left our house of course just in time for the cold weather. We had a busy September and looks like we are going to have a busy October.

This past weekend we had a visitor from Florida. Uncle Andy came to spend the weekend and the boys loved it. Jeff and Andy went to the Bears game on Sunday and had a blast. Don't get me wrong we love being close to family but we do miss the "family" that we made down in Florida. Thank you Uncle Andy for a great time.

Well I will type more when I have time but just wanted to let everyone know that we are great and Happy OCTOBER!

Thursday, September 25, 2008

CoCo!



Sorry this is delayed but I would like to introduce the newest member of our family. CoCo. We picked her up on Saturday morning. She is a 8 week old Cockapoo. She is a great addition to our family. Everyone loves her. Here are a couple pictures.

Monday, September 22, 2008

A long Weekend!

Well when I last reported I said we all had stuffy noses and coughs. Well it got much worse. Payton woke up throwing up on Saturday morning and running a 103.3 fever. He couldn't keep anything down. After the day of him just sleeping and not wanting to do anything I decided I wasn't going to take any chances and took him to convienent care. When we got there he was running a 104.6 fever and they told us that we needed to go to the ER because they were unable to do labs there and they thought it might be his appendix. Well I rushed him to the ER and Grandma and Grandpa went to our house to watch Braxton so daddy could come and be with us. He fever was starting to go down but he kept telling us he had a boo boo and would touch his stomach. We had a great doctor there and he decided to do chest x-rays and we were told that he has bacterica pneumonia in his left lung. The doctor told us that with little kids that pneumonia will make a kids stomach hurt so that explained his boo boo on his stomach. So after a long afternoon we were able to go get medicine and take him home and doctor him up. We kept him from school today because he really just started eating yesterday afternoon and still a little weak. He is still sleepign this morning. I will write more later.

Thursday, September 18, 2008

Thursday evening

Hello all from our house to yours. Thank goodness it is Friday tomorrow. I think we are all ready for the weekend. Unfortunately our house has a cough and runny noses. I believe we are at the peak and we can only feel better. Yes we all four have it. So really nothing much to type I hope to type more later this weekend. Til then GOOD NIGHT!

Monday, September 15, 2008

When I grow up!


Jeff took this picture of Payton today and I put the subtitle on it. Yes my throwing shoes are on the wrong feet but isn't he just precious. Start them young!

Monday, September 8, 2008

New family member...arriving soon!


We have decided to add a new family member. After a lot of talking and discussion we decided to add this sweet little girl to our family. Yes we still have Lily but she is celebrating her 12th birthday next month and likes to live her life in quiet and only play when wanting to be played with. With two high energy boys they want more. A lot of research has shown that adding a high energy dog has done wonders for a child with verbal apraxia. She is a cockapoo (part cocker spaniel and part poodle) and she will be able to come home in a few weeks. We are having problems deciding on a name. Of course Jeff wants to name her Bronco or Butkus after some football greats to go with Payton but I don't think that sweet face deserves such a name. If you have suggestions please feel free to comment. I have fixed it so anyone can comment. Thank you!

Happy Monday!

Well it is Monday again and back to a busy week. Life is going great and we had a great weekend with Grandma Marj and Grandma Carol and Grandpa. Grandma Marj was here on vacation and spent most of her time spoiling the boys rotten like always. We all enjoyed having her here.

They boys, Grandma Carol and I went to the Bloomington Zoo on Saturday and we had a great time. It is a smaller zoo but it had a lot of animals we have never seen before. We had tons of fun.

What a great weekend. Thank you to all that were involved.

Monday, September 1, 2008

Happy Labor Day!

Good morning all. In case you didn't know it is my birthday also today so I love Labor day this year. Last night we had a cookout and it was fun to have all the kids out and playing in the water and getting along. Thank you all that came and brought food.

Today we are just hanging out and getting ready for a visitor. Grandma Marj is visiting this week. We are all excited.

Post more later. Blog with you later.

Tuesday, August 26, 2008

A few new pictures!




Well it is Tuesday night and the boys are in bed. We all got haircuts tonight and everyone looks sharp. Payton is now ready to start school on Thursday. He says "no school" but we are sure he is going to love it again. I wanted to share a few pictures of the boys that we took last night. Hope all is well with all of you.

Sunday, August 24, 2008

Sunday, Sunday!

Well it is Sunday and what have we gotten done. A lot of housework I would say. Is it enough...never but I guess I can feel good about doing it. We have a busy week and so getting things set up and clean is good. I am exhausted but oh well. Everyone is good here. Payton starts school on Thursday. Ok off to more cleaning. Hope everyone is having a great weekend.

Thursday, August 21, 2008

Dr Visit

Well we made it through our Doctors visit with flying colors. Braxton is off the charts in height at 36 1/2 inches and 68% for weight at 27-3.5 lbs. We got our last shot until we turn 4. Yeah.

Tuesday, August 19, 2008

August 19, 2008

Wow well it has been a while since I last typed. So what has been happening in the PBJJ family?

Braxton is cutting his bottom 2 year old molars. Why would he wait until he actually turned two well maybe because he cut his first tooth at 10 weeks. Oh yes you read that right. He goes tomorrow for his 18 month check-up and I will have to update you on how BIG he is. I am sure he is off the charts but we will see tomorrow.

Payton went to the ENT doctor last week and his ears have cleared up on their own which is great news. He is talking more and more. He showed me a picture of the following things: butterfly, lady bug, flowers and bees. I would say them and then he would say them. He did great until we got to the Bee and I said BEE and he said "no mom, bumble bee" I started laughing and said yes bumble bee. I didn't know he knew what a bumble bee was but he does. He is a very smart boy.

So we have a mystery at the house, my car keys are missing. I had them on Saturday and I left with my mom to go to a memory service and we can't seem to find them after I got back. I suspect a little boy knows. Last night I came home and asked Payton if he knows where my keys are. He said yes and so I took him into Braxton's room and said "Payton are they in here" and he replied "Not in here". We go into his room and the same results. We go into Jeff and I's bedroom and I get a "in here", "in a shoe". So we have continued to look and have not found them. Wish us luck.

That is all from the PBJJ family. Stay tuned for how big Braxton is at his 18 month check-up.

Monday, August 4, 2008

A hot summer night!

Hello all...we are sweating here in Illinois. With the heat index it felt like it was 107 out today. That is just nuts. I thought I wouldn't have that kind of heat here but I forgot in the Midwest you get it all.

So you are wondering how we are doing after our weekend. Well I think Braxton finally caught up on sleep which is great. He was being a pistol. Payton is feelin mighty fine...lol They are both rotten as ever.

Ok so I said I would inform everyone about the doctors visit that we had over two weeks ago. Well as I said we went and saw a developmental specialist pediatrican...I am sure this is not his technical title but that is what I call him. We went through Braxton first and they ask a lot of questions and what to know about him and how he acts. Pretty much he is a normal 17 month old and we need to stay in Early Interventions and he will have speech once a week and an occupational therapist see him once a month. Really it is a precautionary due to Payton's delays. He has a hearing test just to make sure that it is "normal".

So we get to discussing Payton. Payton has his normal rituals and likes things a certain way. We had already had his hearing test once before Christmas and it was adnormal and then again in February, which we were told that it was ok. Well the Dr pulled the results from his last one "have to love computers" and said he did not like it all. He told us that the results showed that Payton's hearing was like if you or I would have ear plugs in our ears all day. That with his significant speech delay he would recommend that we get it tested again and then if the results came up the same then to have tubes put in his ears. So of course we were upset because we thought his hearing was ok but come to find out there was a problem all along. Really that was his main concern was Payton's speech. He did say that he felt that Payton does have verbal apraxia which is a neurological issue. Verbal apraxia is when the brain has problems telling the mouth what to say, unlike his mother that has no issue speaking her mind. Also if the hearing test comes back the same then that also been a problem since he can not hear us completely. Both boys are anemic and are now on iron.

Jeff and I had a long road to getting pregnant and then staying pregnant. With our first miscarriage we didn't know if we would ever be parents but then God gave us Payton. Then of course we had to go through another lost and then we were give Braxton. Both boys are a gift from above and we cherish every minute we have with them. Of course we didn't have the easiest of pregnancies and then Payton was born early and had to hospitalized and no one ever could have prepared us on how to survive that but we did. We survived him having stomach surgery at 3 weeks old also. Then we no one could have prepared us for almost losing Braxton when he was born. I feel the only people that truly knew how serious the situation with him was us, the doctors and our parents. For of those that don't know we had him blessed because we didn't know if he was going to survive. A month later our a "big" boy was home with us finally. You are probably asking why I am typing all of this. Well I was asked why I keep this up and how to do I find time. This is relaxing to me and to be honest I never knew if I would be a parent ever. Sometimes I look at them and realize what a blessing they are and that they are they way there are suppose to be. In the beginning I would ask why us, when it came to them being sick when they were born and now with Payton having speech delays but then I say to myself why not. I stopped comparing my children to others their same age it isn't fair. I stop comparing myself to other mothers because it is not fair to myself. I stopped comparing my family to others because to be honest we are one of kind. We are who we are and we live our lives the way we see best. I feel that Jeff and I have lived through so much because we are strong and can handle it. Has it made us better people I don't know but it has made us a stronger FAMILY and that is what counts. I am proud to say that I am a wife to a disabled man and a 3 year old with special needs and a 1 1/2 year old. I will tell everyone that asks how my husband is doing and what a great and patient father he is. I have never been shy and will not now. I am a proud wife and mother to my perfect family.

Saturday, August 2, 2008

Boys first visit to Soldier Field.


It is 9:30 on a Saturday night and both boys are asleep. It has been a long weekend so far. Yesterday we all went to the Chicago Bears Family night at Soldier Field. It was the boys first trip and Daddy was so excited. We got there aroung 3:30 and parked the van and got the stroller out and went for a walk. They had an area where they were giving beads away and some other things. Of course the boys got beads and that kept them busy for awhile. It was very hot and the sun was blaring down on us. Finally at 5 the gates open for us to get in to Soldier field. We were all hot and tired already and we had to ditch the stroller at the van before entering. Try keeping track of a 1 1/2 year old and 3 year old with tons of people around. It is nerve racking. We had great seats on the 50 yard line and got some nachoes and frozen lemonades. The boys were in heaven. Finally at 7 pm they started with announcing the players and the boys favorite part was watching Staley the bears mascot dance around. Practice started and we watched. Well I should say we watched the boys make a mess and start to act out due to the heat and being tired. SO at 7:30 we packed up and left. We had no bad traffic which is a miracle in Chicago. We stopped and had Fudruckers for dinner and then we finished driving home. We got home around 11 and put the boys to bed. It was exhausting. My goal was to take a picture of Jeff with the boys the first visit at soldier field and that was the best picture we could get. That was right before we left. Payton was hot and had to take off his Urlacher Jersey.

Tuesday, July 29, 2008

Vacation

Yes we were on vacation last week. This is how our week went.

Monday-I worked

Tuesday--Doctors appointments

Wednesday--Boys have to have blood test done and then Payton, Cousin Jacob and I meet Kasey, Kolten and Kadence at the pool. We had a blast.

Thursday--We went to the Indianapolis Zoo and it was our first time we took a trip as a family. Our favorite animals were the penguins and the giraffees.

Friday was a relaxing day.

Saturday we had a play group at our house. The boys had a blast.

Sunday we did laundry.

Now I need a vacation from my vacation.

I will type more about the doctor visit. It was interesting.

Thursday, July 17, 2008

Fun days of Summer


Well we have had fun this summer and Payton's summer vacation is just about to start. Today is his last day of summer school. I have updated a couple of the pictures of the boys. Hope you enjoy. We played in the sprinkler and had to get out their "VROOM" that is what Payton calls his power wheel. He decided to take his brother for a ride.

Tuesday, July 15, 2008

Tuesday...

Hello everyone. Well what a great weekend we had. We got housework done and had time to play. This is Payton's last week of summer school. Braxton only walks now and is starting to pick up speed. IT is wonderful. I have pictures to post but just haven't found a moment to get them on here. I just got a great deal on a digital camara for $35 and it is better than our Sony that we bought over 3 years ago. I am a bargain shopper. We are all doing great.

Tuesday, July 8, 2008

Update on everyone!

Well once you read this post you will know why I haven't posted in a while.

Great-Grandpa passed on June 29th. We went up to Wisconsin on Monday afternoon and was in Wisconsin until July 5th. It was great to see everyone but we had hoped not under these circumstances. We miss you Grandpa.

After we got home you know we had to do the normal get back into the routine and I think we finally have. Poor Braxton is the one to suffer since he goes from sleeping in his crib to a play pen. I know it is not comfortable.

Yesterday morning we woke up around 3:30 am and it was storming and Payton came into our bed because he was scared. He came in our room and I said are you scared and he said yes and then I told him to get in between his dad and I and he did. He has a special pillow that he uses when he is in our bed and all he kept saying was Thanks Mom. Well just about that time the power went out. I called the power company at 3:50 am and we didn't get power back on until 11:30. So of course I didn't sleep that well because I was scared to over sleep.

Well it is Tuesday and it looks like there is going to be storms again today. Hopefully this will be a relaxing week for us.

Wednesday, June 25, 2008

A downer post....Sorry

Well we got bad news this past week. I found out that one of my former athletes lost her two and half year old son last week. I just can't imagine what she is going through. Our prayers go out to Erica and her family during this difficult time.

Great-Grandpa Vander Logt had a stroke and is in the hospital. We got the phone call on Sunday night. We are all taking it hard.

The boys were both sick this past weekend with a high fever and we took them to the doctor to find out that they had a virus and there is nothing we can do but let it runs it course. They are just now feeling better.

As you can it was a long weekend and so far week. We hope tomorrow will bring better news.

Monday, June 16, 2008

What a weekend!

Well Payton had to go to the doctor for an ear infection. His first one every and the first time after he came home that he has ever been on antibiotics. Which I think is great! He is doing better now.

Braxton is now walking every where and it is great. We are so happy. A long time coming but I guess he just wasn't ready.

We had our 6th wedding anniversary on Sunday and Jeff and I were able to go out Saturday night for dinner and a movie. Thank you Mom and Pops for watching the boys. We had a great time and it seem so wierd to be able to have an adult conversation and for me to eat my meal right when it was served. Usually I am getting the boys plates ready. WE had a great Anniversary and wow I can't believe it has been 6 years since we were married.

Fathers Day was Sunday also and we let Daddy do what he wanted for the most part. LOL We went out for breakfast and Jeff go a bears bbq set that he can use while he tailgates. I think he was surprised. We had nachos for dinner because that is what Daddy wanted. Jeff is a great father and a wonderful husband.

Kasey, one of my best friends, had her baby on Friday the 13th during a scheduled c-section. I was able to go and see them on Saturday. Kadince Rilee was beautiful and she was 9lbs 4oz and 21 inches. She has ton of hair. She is adorable. I got to hold her and it was great. I never got to hold my boys that young. Payton I got to hold for the first time at 5 days old and poor Braxton wasn't able to get held until he was 16 days old. It was great feeling to see this sweet little baby. Kasey looked great as always. Thank you Kasey for letting me hold your darling little girl. It makes me want another one.

Well another week has passed and Payton starts summer school tomorrow. It has to be on the bus at 7:50. It should be interesting. Oh I have to brag, Payton said "lemonaide" on wednesday night at dinner and now he thinks everything is lemonaide. TO cute! We are proud of the progress Payton has made with his speech!

Have a great week.

Friday, June 6, 2008

We almost missed it!

Last night we were all in the living room after dinner and Braxton was on the other side of the living room. I don't know what made me look up but I did and he had walked from one side of the living room to me with a hugh smile on his face. IT was great and Jeff and I both got to see it. Then of course he crawled to the middle of the room to get a toy. At least we know he can walk. LOL

Thursday, June 5, 2008

Long Post! Catch up time!


Hello all. Wow what a busy few weeks we have had. Here is a a little catch up.
Payton-Finished school yesterday and now has 12 days until he starts summer school. School has been such a blessing. Jeff and I went to his school carnival last Saturday and then went on Monday to his class recognition. It was so cute to see him up there. He loves to go outside and play in the water. Now if it would stop raining we could do more of that.
Braxton-Well walk if he wants but it is faster for him to crawl so that is what he does. He is talking up a storm and says bye and waves any time he is leaving a room. It is so cute. He is my eater and will eat from the time you sit down until you make him leave.
Jeff-Spent Memorial Day in Wisconsin to help him mom. Enjoyed the time away but we could tell he missed us a lot.
Me-Working hard. Trying to get organize, better said than done. Organization should be my goal for meals, housework and kids. Trying to spend special time with each boy. Working every day from 7 to 4 now and I am looking forward to spending extra time with the boys. Today is my official first day so I will let you know how it goes.
Family-Well both Grandma's are recovering and trying to get things back to normal. We are so glad that both of them are on their way to a full recovery. It has been stressful worrying about the Grandma's.
The picture above was when Braxton tried to hijack Payton's birthday gift and then Payton got in. We are not sure who was driving who but it was funny.

Tuesday, May 20, 2008

The last week wrapped up in one post!

Ok I am not going to promise any more that I will post more often. I am horrible and to be honest at night I am exhausted and don't remember. I am on the computer all day at work and don't feel like getting on at home. I know there are others out there like this.

Friday night the boys got their haircut. It was Braxton's first haircut and he didnt mind it at all. It went smoothly. Thank you Pat!

Saturday was suppose to be clean the house day while Daddy played with the boys outside. I got one bathroom done and went to do the other and sliced my finger on a broken ceramic tile. I had to go to and get it glued back together and get a shot. Mom and Pops came over and we cooked out hamburgers and have a good afternoon.

Sunday we went to Peoria and spent the afternoon with the Hawes family to celebrate Dylan's 6th birthday. The boys had so much fun.

We would like to tell you that Marj is doing a lot better. She had to have surgery due to bowel issues. They did the repairs needed and she is still recouperating. We wish her a speedy recovery.

Well I think that updates you! Please let us know how you are doing.

Thursday, May 15, 2008

Life with a 3 and 1 year old.

Like is hectic at time but we love it. Just this morning Payton turned around and didn't realize Braxton was there and made contact with Braxton's mouth. Braxton started to cry and Payton decided to kiss him to make up with him. All I hear is Jeff say "Jenn, I don't know which one is bleeding they both have blood on them" Well after Jeff cleaned Payton up and I cleaned Braxton up we realized that Payton's knee hit Braxton in the mouth and busted his lip. It was an accident and Payton tried to make it feel better with kisses. Everyone is good now and they still love each other.

Monday, May 12, 2008

Mother's Day!

Well happy Mother's day to all the mothers and soon to be mothers. I love the day because it reminds me to be thankful for my family and to appreciate them and them to appreciate me.

Friday, May 9, 2008

You are a big BOY!

Well Braxton had his 15 month check-up and everything went great. He has all of his teeth except his two year molars. He was 34 inches tall which puts him in the 99% tile and he was 26 lbs 9 oz which is in the 75% tile. His height has always been in the 99% tile. So like I said he is a big BOY! He took his two shots like a champ!

You will always be in our hearts!

Three years ago today a great man was taken to heaven to soon. Ron was a devoted husband, father and grandfather. You are always in our hearts. We miss you!

Thursday, May 8, 2008

Update on Everyone!

Hello everyone. Well it has been awhile but I promise to get better. I have a lot to say usually but it is hard for me to find time to get on and type. Let's do a quick update on everyone!

Payton--Loves school, loves the bus. We have noticed such a change in him and it is for the good. Turning 3 was great for him because he got to start school and get more help with his speech. He is loves looking at the moon and usually every night he wants to go out and look for it. Of course the last couple of nights we had storms and the moon was not visible and he said "mom, no moon?" and my heart sank because that was the first 3 word sentence he has ever said.


Braxton--still not walking. We go for his 15 month check-up tomorrow, I will update you tomorrow about it. He loves to eat and he is starting to talk more and more also. His favorite words are NO, Bye, Out, up! He loves to dance to music. Everyday I look at him and realize he is no longer my baby.

Jeff--getting use to Payton being gone in the afternoons. He has his good and bad days. He is a great father and takes pride in raising our kids. I love him tons!

ME--well went to the dr today because I stubbed my toe on April 20 and it still hurts to walk. Had to have an x-ray to make sure I didn't crack something in the foot. Toe is still big and ugly. Can't wear my tennis shoes because it hurts. I don't knwo when I will get the results back but hopefully it is a just a broken toe and nothing else.

I know I told everyone that my mom had surgery due to cancer. She is recovering. She had 48 staples in all. She is so strong and the test came back and said that the cancer had not spread. Thank you all for your love, support and prayers through this.

Well we had a garage sale last week because we are happy with our two boys and decided not to have anymore. We made $150 dollars and got rid of a lot. It was sad to see the preemie clothes that Payton wore and to sell them but it was time. I would love to have another baby but I dont' know if I chance having another sick baby after birth. I don't know if I would be strong enough to deal with it. We were blessed two times and they are the light of my life.

Ok well I will write more later. Sorry for the vacation I took but I am back on track.

Monday, April 28, 2008

April 28th

I know it has been awhile and I will post more but I wanted to add a picture of the boys together. It has been a year since we had their picutres professionally taken. I know we are horrible parents.

Saturday, April 12, 2008

wahoo for Braxton

Braxton took 3 steps on his own. YEAH for Braxton!

Oh and it snowed today. Yes on April 12th....

Friday, April 11, 2008

My First

Well I had to sign my first permission slip yesterday for Payton to go on a school field trip. I know it is my first of many but he is not even 3 yet.

Wednesday, April 9, 2008

Today!

Payton had another successful speech session. they can't believe how quickly he picks up different sign language signs. He will now sign "please" It is so cute. We go tomorrow to meet his teacher and talk about his goals for the rest of the school year.

Braxton is starting to walk a little more when we hold his hands. He knows my schedule and will wake up at 6:30 am to see me and then will lay back down. He loves his mom! He is to cute.

Monday, April 7, 2008

Family News!

Well last week we got some bad news that my mom has cancer. She is going to have surgery in the coming week and hopefully it hasn't spread to her lymph nodes. We won't know the stage until they do surgery.

Wednesday, April 2, 2008

Oh Poop!

It has begun. Braxton will not leave his pants on. Daddy found him yesterday with his pants off diaper off and poop everywhere. Daddy had to clean up and give Braxton a bath. Payton did this once. Braxton loves to take things a part. He took his pants off and had half his sheet off his bed. He is a destroyer!

Monday, March 31, 2008

Oh Ketchup!

Well the boys are bonding. It started last night when we saw them go in to the kitchen together. We didn't think anything of it until Jeff and I started to hear them both laugh and get quiet and then laugh and laugh and laugh. I made the comment that I wonder what was making them laugh so much. Jeff went in to the kitchen and then I heard "Jenn you need to come in here". Payton and Braxton were both covered with ketchup. Payton had gotten it out of the refridgerator and then squirted it on the table. They were both finger painting my table and eating it. They had also decided to play with the matchbox cars in it. So I took Braxton and cleaned him up and Jeff cleaned Payton up. Jeff and I both looked at each other and said this is only the beginning. WE love having boys...

Wednesday, March 26, 2008

Catch UP!

Well I know it has been a while since we wrote anything but here is a catch up. Payton is now signing more and has learned go and shoes. He is picking up some words also. He loves to look at the moon and point it out and say moon a hundred times. We are very proud of him.

Braxton is not walking but he is getting into more trouble. He loves to throw things and he likes to touch the tv. Anything he can open or close and he loves to terrorize Lily (dog). He is a destroyer.

Payton and Braxton are playing more together and it is good to see. We still have to remind Payton that he can tackle him like he does his dad. Payton's birthday is a month and he will be 3. We can't believe it.

We had a cold but fun Easter. Jeff went to visit family in Wisconsin and the boys and I had some alone time together. We had activities everyday. We look forward to Spring so we can get outside.

There we are all caught up!

Monday, March 17, 2008

looking at picture

Have you ever looked at a picture and couldn't believe that was you in it. You look so terrible and look a lot older than you want too. Well that happen to me. I saw this picture of me that was taken very recent and I couldn't believe that tired looking girl was me. I am definetly over weight and I just look horrible. I came to realize that if I looked like that in the picture then I definetly look like that every day. What happen to the 'lets go' attitude. As a mother do we just get in the same routine day in and day out and don't take time to look at ourselves? I could tell you my schedule right now and it hasn't changed in a long time. I won't bore you with the details...But why not change that. I do miss Florida because Payton and I would go outside everyday and I think that helped. I forgot what it was like to have a winter and be stuck in the house. It is not fun but that is life. What do you do to break up the infamous schedule and add some spice into your life. I hate how I look and have decided that I can change that and that is something that I will do after the boys go to sleep. Oh yes I started tonight I was able to go 20 minutes on the eliptical machine. To bad before I got pregnant with Payton I would do it for an hour three times a week.
So you can work on yourself and change what you put in your mouth. Yes I have done this whole thing before but I really think that working out is an outlet. I have been so stressed on whether Payton could start school and get the help he needs that I really was so fixed on that I forgot about everything else. That is working out and then I start to think about other things. Yes I am a worrier. Always have been and always will be I don't know if you can change that. They boys are getting older and I am so happy with my wonderful boys. They are truly a blessing and I think of how I can become a better mother and a more understanding one. What is the right way to mother a child? I know there is not a right way but what way is best for Payton and Braxton? Am I good wife? Am I the wife that Jeff thought I would be? Am I to demanding? The list could go on of the questions I ask everyday. Then I wonder how I can be a better person and how I can treat my body better. Putting ice cream or candy bars is not the right way but am I so in the habit or the routine of doing this that I will never be able to change this? Life is so complicated sometimes and I know that everyone asks themselves questions and strive to be the best at whatever they can be but do you ever wonder if you will find the answer or will there only be questions?

Sunday, March 16, 2008

Its Sunday!

Well it is Sunday and we are just relaxing and getting ready for a short week. I get good Friday off so that will be exciting to have three days with the boys. We have had a good weekend. Payton had a play date with Kolten last night. They both really get along well.

Braxton is having some issues with biting because he just bite his brother on the arm. I didn't see it happen until Payton came to me and was holding his arm. I then noticed that his shirt was wet. I lifted it up and he had a bite mark on his arm. He said"it hurt". He will definetly have a bruise.

Thursday, March 13, 2008

Its official!!!

Payton will be starting school on April 21st. Yes my baby will be riding the bus to and from school. We met with the school today and we have to hurry to get everything in order but they feel the same way we feel that he needs to start right away and not wait until September. When we left we got to see all the little kids arrive at school and they were happy. It was refreshing to see because I wasn't to sure about sending my 3 year old to school. The school is for ages 3 to 5 and he will be going everyday for 2 1/2 hours. He will get speech therapy while at school. We feel it will be great for him to interact with other children his age. I know I will cry when we put him on the bus for the first time. The bus will come right to our drive way and will drop him off the same place. I am crying just thinking about it. It is the best for him and his development.

We found out that he has fluid on the middle ear and we don't know why. It is not an ear infection but it shouldnt' be there either. It was there when we had his hearing tested in November and it was there and they wanted to do a repeat test and it was there still. We are waiting to hear what the ENT doctor thinks. We don't know if it has anything to do with his speech delay yet. Now it is just waiting and see. That is all the news from us for now. Have a great Friday.

Tuesday, March 11, 2008

Happy Tuesday!


Well it is Tuesday and we are doing well. Nothing really going on. Braxton is now only taking one nap instead of two. The boys are trying to get use to the daylight saving times. It is wierd how losing an hour can bother you but it does. Braxton is walking more and more behind things but he just won't let go. I don't know why we think about it because Payton was 14 months old when he really started walking and then he went from walking to running. Daddy is going to be in trouble when this happens. We are enjoying the warmer weather that we are having. Suppose to be 60 degrees tomorrow. That means it will probably snow this weekend. We can't wait for spring. In Florida we would go outside everyday but now it stinks that we are stuck inside. Well hope everyone have a great Tuesday.


Here is a picture of Payton that they took at his playgroup. He was just getting over a cold.

Sunday, March 9, 2008

WAY TO GO PAYTON!!!

We have to brag about Payton just a little. He has started to sign when he wants more and help with things. It has changed him a lot. We use to have a lot of frustrating moments and screaming when he couldnt' tell us what he wanted. But now that he has started to sign we have had NO screaming fits. It is amazing. He is the smartest little boy I know. We are now working on the sign for Thank you now.

He also went to his first Illinois game yesterday and yes we got to see the Chief.

WAY TO GO PAYTON!

Thursday, March 6, 2008

Payton!

For those that don't know Payton has been diagnosed as speech delay. His speech level is that of a 15 month old. He has been seeing a speech therapist every week and will be starting half day of school in April so he can continue to get the help he needs. If you have never had a child that can not tell you what he wants let me explain that it is the worse feeling as a parent. A typical time usually starts with Payton trying to tell us or show us what he wants, needs or desires but we can not understand so then he gets very frustrated and throws a fit and then in turn we as parents get very frustrated also. I know that both Jeff and I feel lost sometimes and feel like a failure as a parent because we are unable to understand what our child needs. I know there are other parents out that feel that way and there are also the parents out there that have no idea what it feels like and judge us because of how we do things. When you have a child with a delay or a special need you have to think different and you have to discipline different. Please do not judge us if you don't know what we are going through. Just be supportive. Be there if we need to cry or just listen if we need to talk out our frustrations. Please do not try to tell us how to do things because believe me we have tried. We have asked a million questions and I know we will have another million to ask. Payton is a sweet child and loves to have people pay attention to him. We know you can't understand what he says but if he decides to talk please listen and give him a chance to be him.

It has been so long...and for this I am sorry.

Well a lot has happened. First things first. Braxton turned one. Yes my baby turned one. Can you believe. He turn 1 on February 1st. Just look at the pictures. In a year life has changed so much.

PhotobucketOnly a couple days old in this picture.

Birthday Cake
Enjoying his cake on his first birthday!

I still cry when I think back to the time when they told us that you were so very critically ill. We came and saw you in the NICU and kissed you for the first time. We said a prayer and then went on to the chapel to pray more. We didn't know if we would have 10 more minutes or a lifetime with you. We are so glad that our prayers were answered and we are able to see your smiling face every day. We all love and realize what a miracle you are.

Monday, January 21, 2008

Monday, Monday!

Happy Monday to everyone. The boys are good. Braxton has cut all of his I-teeth and stomach teeth. He is babbling more and more. He gets very excited and loves to play with whatever his brother is doing.

Payton is doing great. He is starting to learn colors and it helps that his favorite candy is M&M's.

Jeff and I are great. Just enjoying the boys while they are still little.

Have a great week.

Monday, January 14, 2008

Wow!!

Well it is Monday and really we had a good weekend. The best way to spend the weekend is with your babies and husband. We straightened up the house and just had a relaxing weekend. That is as good as it gets.

Tuesday, January 8, 2008

Flat Tire!

Well don't you hate it when you have no choice but to hit what is laying in the road. Well I hit a tire or something in the road and got a flat. Of course I didn't have the lug wrench so I had to wait for a friend. Then I went to get it fixed and it cost $70 for one tire. Oh well....I went home and played with my boys and then had a beer and went to bed. What a long night.

Friday, January 4, 2008

It's Friday!

Well nothing really going on. We are all looking forward to a relaxing weekend. It is suppose to get in the 50s so we are going to cookout and take the boys outside. I can't wait. Well have a good weekend.

Wednesday, January 2, 2008

Ok...doing good

Did you know that only 10% of people keep their new year's resolutions. So I am striving to be one of those 10%. So one of my new years resolutions was to at least blog every day if not every other day so I guess I am starting out right. LOL Also I have decided to exercise at least 30 minutes a day. We have an elliptical and really there is no point to me not doing it so today is the first day. I am trying to figure out whether to do it in the morning or at night and I am really thinking that at night right after the boys go to sleep would be ideal. So I know the first week is the hardest and I am excited to have a challenge.

Payton had an evaluation today with a occupational therapist and he did very good but we were told that we need to start stretching his legs because at home he does wear shoes and he walks on his tip toes a lot. Now I know he gets it honestly because as a child I walked on my tip toes until I was in the 6th grade. I have great looking calves now. He has tight calves and achilles tendons and of course he has the greatest looking calves for a 2 and half year old I have seen. I am not bias at all.

Braxton is starting to cruise along the furniture and he likes to stand for as long as he can. He is in 18 month clothes and wears a lot of 24 month onesies because he is so tall and long. He will try everything and loves to feed himself.

Jeff is doing well. He enjoys spending his days with the boys and of course the Chicago bears season is over so he has to find something else to take up his time. I know he will come up with something.

I am doing great. I love my job and I love all the time I have to spend with Jeff, Payton and Braxton. I would like to get in shape again. I hate how I look but I am working on that. I have a super supportive husband and that helps. We are eating healthier and that helps alot.

Well that is the update for now. Until tomorrow. Have a great evening.

Tuesday, January 1, 2008

Long time










Well first things first...Happy Holidays. We have been so busy so it has been so long. Well the boys had a great Christmas. It was nice to be with family again. Now we are starting to get ready for Braxton's first birthday. It will be around the corner. Here are a few pictures of the boys now. They are getting so big.

Where did it all begin.....

This is a blog about the lives of a non-traditional midwestern family. I am a full time working mother of two beautiful boys and a wife to a stay at home husband. We were married on June 15, 2002 and were blessed with two boys, Payton (4-19-05) and Braxton (2-08-07).