11 Months Old "PITA PAN" and TINK Kelson

Apparently I've been slacking- just realized I missed posting a few months :( living the life of a full-time working mom, wife of two kids, and a supporting my talented musician husband takes a lot of time. Its ok though, good thing about blogs is you can catch up in one post.

Janson aka PITA (Pain in the A$$) Pan is his new nickname- we mean it in the sweetest way- he's just into everything and wants to be going going going all of the time. I wouldnt' trade him for anything, but whew is he a handful. i can't believe my baby is 11 months old already- time is flying by. For his first bday we are talking about having a WHO-ville themed party for him. Since we have the luxury that his bday falls on November 1st (the day we put up our Christmas tree) it would be a neat theme for his bday. He still has only 8 teeth, which is quite a bit considering at 6 months he only had 1 or 2. He is signing a few things now: More, bath, puppy, so smart, touchdown, light (just started that one). He has a few gestures that he has made up that we notice: starts to say UH-OH, but just says uh uh... no oh yet when he drops something, copies Kelson with the "EEEE" face- makes a fist and holds out the other hand (its hilarious). His smile and personality light up our lives. Him and Kelson looked a lot alike as babies, but he is starting to get his own look. Kelson has really started playing a lot with him now that he's not just a newborn anymore and likes to do things. She is a WONDERFUL big sister to him.
He's pretty much eating table food now- no more baby food- don't blame him there. Been drinking his ORGANIC (thx to Keri) vitamin D milk now. His favorite foods are noodles, banana, cookie treats, bread, yogurt, pizza crust, and as long as it doesnt' have a weird texture he will try almost anything.

Everything goes STRAIGHT into his mouth... again- he's into everything. Has had a few bumps and bruises, but nothing major. He is determined to stand up on his own and walk. This past weekend he finally learned how to crawl on all fours instead of doing the "army scoot"- we were calling him scooter. He finally grasped it when I put him in the grass outside then I turned around and saw him actually crawling- he's a smart little man- then yesterday, on Weeza's bday he was walking with his wagon all by himself we were all getting dinner and he just started walking with it. He's such a determined boy. I wouldn't be surprised if he starts walking on his own in a few weeks.

As far as sleeping- he is sleeping an average of 9-10 hrs per night, with an occasional wake up during the night. Sometimes he just isn't tired and wants to play a little longer. We've been trying to get both kids into bed around 8pm to give us a little "US" time, but it doesn't always happen. Kelson and Janson both like to snuggle and be with mom and dad in their bed- can't blame em :) PITA PAN is such a sweet little boy and I look forward to going home every day after work to see my precious babies and great "mr. mom" husband.

Kelson- our big kindergarten girl is doing very well. She loves Asbury and goes M-F 9am-1pm and loves her school. Her teacher this year is Miss Kenney. She gets to see Miss Carla a lot too and they all seem to really love Kelson. They always mention her beautiful personality and smile :) Next year she will go to Endeavor, public school, but I have a few friends who kids attend it and they really like it, so we shall see. I'm a little nervous about it, but I know it will be fine once we get the routine going. We are spoiled by the 9am school start time.

We went to the Madison Street Festival this past weekend and she got her face pained like a fairy- she's such a pretty little girl and I love that she is so well mannered- people comment on her all of the time- makes a mommy proud. She has such a huge heart and she gets very upset if you are upset with her or dissapointed- its a great quality to have. She started taking dance @ Southern Sensations in Sept and so far is doing really well. We're not allowed to attend the classes (its a drop off kind of thing) so I assume she is behaving and catching on well. She doesnt' tell me much about the class. We are still attending the little gym for gymnastics too. She seems to be alittle older than most of the kids and advanced, but she still loves the opportunity to jump around, swing from things, and do cartwheels (which she does VERY well now). I'm looking into signing her up for piano then some vocal lessons maybe next summer after dance and softball will be over. Don't want to overwhelm her :)

Other than that- life is the same. Heartland released a new single and it seems to be doing ok. Jason's voice is still "in work" and we are still trying to figure out the right botox dosage to best fit his need. Its been a little stressful, but his great band members and supporting family have been wonderful. I'm still working at Boeing, Business Development, I really am enjoying this line of work. Hope to try to work myself up to a P4 in the next year or so ;)
I'm still in braces and have an appt Thurs so I think this appt will fix my bottom teeth to get em super straight- the tops are straight already and they look great. I don't see how people wear braces for years and years- UGGG. Bless em! I'm still working on losing weight. I'm about where I was when the biggest loser contest ended in July, (185) so I really hope to lose another 25lbs. I've told Kelson that when I get home from work she needs to encourage me to get on the elliptical or go for a walk with the kids- we did a stroller ride in our neighborhood a few weeks ago (the weather was gorgeous) and both kids had a GREAT time. It was a good workout pushing that stroller too. Well fingers crossed that I continue with my motivation.

Atta boy Albert

Janson is finally starting to sign :) His first sign is "More" :) Just like his sister. He is 8.5 months old. He does it more like the "patticake" version, but he understands the concept. Yea Janson! Also he has two more teeth coming in- up on top- but not the middle ones- kinda weird, but we like unusual ;)

Kelson left this morning for a 2 week Florida trip with Nin and George in their motorhome. Both Jason and I cried a little- and so did Kelson- but I think we are going to be ok. She will have so much fun. She is planning on hanging with my family when she gets down there. Apparently Aunt Keri has LOTS planned for them. Its goin to be very weird not having Kelson around, but I know how life it, and it will fly by. Gives us a little alone time with Janson too. Looking forward to here coming back already. She's only been away from us for a few days- so this will be a real test. Worth case my godmother has standby passes for Papa and Kelson to fly back to HSV :) but I have a feeling she is going to have a great time.

Happy 8 Months/Kelson's Bday to be/Mommy on her way

Holy Moly-8 months old - ALREADY! :( Time flies when your having fun. Let's see, still no signing, but we are working on it all the time. I added "fish" into the list of signs since their Nemo bathroom has a lot of fish in it. Our ritual after bath time is to show him all the fish on the wall and sign fish, so well see if that will be his first sign. Let's see- Janson is still eating like a horse, makes that YUM sound with every bite (its adorable- it almost sounds like he is savouring each bite)- lol, he is sleeping very well through the night. Going to bed around 8pm ish and getting up around 8am ish after he plays in his crib for a while. The last couple of nights I have been able to just lay him down in his crib, still awake, (after bath and dinner time of course) and turn on his rainforest mobile and he goes right to sleep by himself- no crying at all. He's such a great baby. He's finally getting to an age where Kelson can play with him instead of just fetch things for him :) She's really enjoying being a big sister and is VERY good at it. No jealously EVER from her- she only wants to love on him and play. The age difference has been wonderful. Janson has been doing this "king kong" move as Jason calls it where he beats on his chest- its hilarious. I don't want to forget any of these moments. We watched home videos of Kelson around 1 and I had forgotten so many things that she used to do, so we are trying to write down everything and capture it on video. Jumperoo is still a huge hit. Memere Lucy has taught him to turn his head to the side- its adorable- almost like he's shy. She would do it to him and he mocks her. Its adorable. Janson has been such a wonderful addition to our family, I just can't wait to capture so many more memories of him.

Well I finally registered Kelson for her 5th bday party at Chuck E Cheese this year. She is very excited about the ticket blaster and seeing all her kids. A/C and the staff doing all the work- I'm excited about that. August is just too hot for an outdoor party. I think this year she will get "BRAVE" stuff- new Pixar movie that the family went and saw a few weeks ago. Its very cute and now Kelson wants a bow and arrow :) Can't believe my baby girl is going to be 5 :(

Kelson leaves with Nin and George on Sunday to go to FL for a week. My family is SUPER excited to have her to themselves for a week and I know she is excited about going to stay with her cousins. She has been a little hesitate to go since we aren't going, but I think with all the "fun stuff" I mentioned that she would be doing, that I have convinced her to go. She tends to want her mommy and daddy at night, so I'm hoping she will be ok and were only a skype or phone call away. I'm gonna miss my little girl, but she will have a great time and I don't have to worry about her at all.

Kelson starts Kindergarten in August at Asbury- we decided to keep her there for another year since we love them and the schedule is so nice (9am-1pm M-F). I told Kelson that when mommy has to go to work, she has to go to school, but that we are both off together on the weekends, so she liked that. I think she misses being at school. I try to keep her on her toes by doing her workbook, but she has got all that nailed down. I'm thinking of signing her up for dance this fall. She is gonna get a free year at the little gym cause Jason is playing at their street festival again- yea- that's like $600 worth of free classes :) Also considering starting piano- got lots planned for that little one. She loved playing tball this spring, so we will definetly do that again next year. YEA!!!

So me- well we have been doing this biggest loser competition since April 30th- I'm down 13lbs and 3% body fat, but that last two weeks I've been REALLY trying hard- working out every day and eating under 1200 calories. I've been maintaining my weight at 189 and its VERY frustrating because I've picked up the pace yet still haven't lost. All the girls tell me to stay off the scale and focus on inches, but the problem is, inches doesn't win the competition :( It ends July 23rd and first place gets $650. I'm really trying hard to win that money and the title! Jason is in it too, but hasn't really motivated himself to pick up the exercise- he is eating right so that make a difference and has lost, so I guess that's a good thing. I'm really trying to get back to where I was before I had Kelson- or at least in the 170's. I think if I stay with the way I'm going I"ll be just fine, it will just take some time. Wish me luck-- I'll let you know how it goes.

Orajel please

Janson cut his second tooth lastnight- not sure if that's when it popped up, but that's when I noticed it. Its next to his other tooth on the bottom. He's been drooling like crazy, but that's nothing new, so I didn't think anything of it. He's still doing really well with sleeping- goes to bed around 8-9pm and gets up around 7-8. Not bad for a 7 month old. He is QUITE the eater- he normally eats around 8 jars of baby food a day and his 2-3 bottles. He's over 20lbs now. He's gonna be a big ole boy! But he's staying fit with his jumperoo- LOL!
So I finally did it and got braces- I have been wanting them since I was a teenager, didn't need em medically so mom didn't make us wear them, don't blame her there. So I finally decided I was going to just do it- so I made an appt with Dr. Amy Thompson for a consult and she said I indeed was a candidate for the clear 6 month smile braces. So I had them do the molds right then. So Monday, June 11th I got them on. Putting them on didn't hurt- little uncomfortable- but nothing I couldn't handle. The worst part was the sound that they make filing/flossing your teeth down- OMG- i almost couldn't handle it- its like nails on a chalkboard- torture. come to find out they are gonna do that each time I go in to get them tightened- good times. Oh well- it is what it is. So they are still sore and very uncomfortable- I still can't believe I finally did it and have to do a double take when I walk past a mirror. Definitly not as cute as a pretty smile, but I'll have it soon enough. How long I have to keep them on is up to my teeth. One patient got them off as early as 3 months, another patient- who works at the office got hers off in 7 months, so it just depends. I'm hoping for 6 months at the longest so I can get them off around Christmas- what a nice present that will be to have beautiful white straight teeth for christmas :) I'm really looking forward to it. Another good thing about getting braces is I can't eat much- just soft foods like soup, yogurt, etc.. so I've lost 1.5lbs since Monday. Since I've been slacking I plan to start working out- between not eating and exercising I should lose 5 lbs/week. I want to win that biggest loser competition and we only have around 1 month left so I have to step it up a notch. The other good thing about getting braces is I can't bite my fingernails, so its a win-win for me :) I'm so excited and can't wait to see the progress.

7 MONTH JANSON- teefy, sitting up, and what an eater

Our little man has really made some progress this month. He's now sitting up on his own, has a little tooth coming in on the bottom (right side) and is still eating like a toddler :) LOL! He's been such a great baby! We fed him mashed potatoes and carrots, applesauce, and his milk lastnight and he slept longer than he has before. I left for work at 8:30 and he was still in bed (the night before he slept from 6:30pm-7am)! He's such a happy baby too. He gets lots of compliments on what a good baby he is and he's always smiling. I got some real cute videos of Janson and Kelson talking (aka coughing) at eachother. The aunts have taught him to cough on demand now- and he responds and understands. Yesterday he started popping his lips at me- it was adorable. Smart kid. We've been doing the signing, so I have a feeling he will be doing that before long. He said dada about a month ago and says it on occasion now.

We've also found out that Kelson is QUITE the hula hooper- it started out she was just trying it in her bedroom while watching cartoons then the other day she started doing it and OMG- it was amazing. She was spinning as she did it and it stayed up for a long time. I was shocked. She tried to teach us how to do it too, but we weren't able to do it- LOL! She's grown up so much and has been a WONDERFUL sister to Janson- she is so helpful and doesn't whine about having to help at all. She's made it through her good girl twice (she got to go to the Play Place for 10 stickers, then she choose Chuck E Cheese for the 2nd set of stickers). She's really doing great! Speaking of CEC- that's where she wants to have her 5th bday party this year- OMG- 5 years old- my baby is really growing up :( and fast. I'm trying to savor every moment I can.

All about the Alberts!!!! 6 MONTH JANSON!

Janson Cole is a whopping 18lbs 2oz this month :) I guess all that eating shows. His height went from 50% to 90%, he is at 27 1/2 inches. She said if he continues to grow at this rate he should be around 6'2. Jason was excited to hear that since 6' is seen as average these days. He still doesn't have any teeth, but Dr. Zbell said that the taller the child, the longer it takes for their teeth to come in. The same was true for Jason. Our handsome little man is doing very well and sleeping well in his bed. He's had a few up at 5am-6am moments, but is ready for bed around 8pm most nights. He has been spoiled and doesn't like to be put down unless your talking to him and likes to be the center of attention- no idea where he got that ;) He said dada... well is mumbling some dddd and bbb words- already. Time is flying. I'm still working on doing signing with him, but he hasn't done anything back yet. He's such a cutie and a great snuggler. I just can't believe how big he is getting already. He's a little fishy and loves bathtime just like his sister. Kelson has really grown attached to Janson since he is starting to play more and his personality is really showing through. When the two kids lay side by side they look so much alike. Mother's Day was this past Sunday and it was so neat to have my two babies to love on. We went to the play place to celebrate Kelson's 10 stickers on her good girl chart. It was a nice break for us to get away as a family. Kelson has been doing so good and the teacher mentioned the other day when I dropped her off at car line that she really misses when Kelson isn't at school- she has the best personality :) I had a flashback to when my mom used to tell me the same thing about my teachers :) Look out world- we got another Kelly on our hands- LOL! Kelson is going to attend Asbury again next week for Kindergarten- i can't believe my baby will be at real school- M-F 9am-1pm- we wanted to stick with that easier schedule for one more year, then well send her to Endeavor for 1st grade. i'm hoping by keeping her at Asbury that she will be a little more advanced than the other kids. She already seems to be. She's reading some with me at bedtime. I love my babies and thank God every day for them!!!!! Jason and I are doing another biggest loser competition. We are looking forward to getting healthy together for our kids. I started it up on April 30th and it will run for 12 weeks. I've started off slow, but I have a feeling I'm gonna kick it up a notch and really start losing. I'm hoping to get down to pre-Kelson weight!! :) Mom and dad have both been doing Favao supplements and doing great. Mom has lost like 25+ lbs and is wearing a size 10- this is huge for my mom!! She's always struggled with losing weight, so I know this works! Jason and I recently celebrated our 8 year anniversary. We went to eat at the Scene- sushi- and watched "The Avengers". We don't get many date nights anymore due to his playing schedule, my work, and the kiddos. It was a nice evening. Jason's botox injections aren't working nearly as fast as we thought it would. Its been almost a month and a half and he is just now able to talk clearly- his speaking voice doesn't have the breaks anymore, but its affected his singing voice. He tried to sing last weekend and was only able to sing a few songs. I'm hoping that if he does another procedure that it will work better next time, but Jason is pretty frustrated, so well see what he decides to do. Heartland's song, "The sounds a dream makes" (Jason not singing on it) is supposed to be released sometime in June, so well see what happens, but if Jason's voice continues to be the way it is, I don't see him pursuing this career path again. Also my "career" life has been all over the place. I'm still trying to get a promo within BD at Boeing. Its finally starting to get some attention and it looks like it could happen soon. I finally heard back from Disney and they apologized for not getting back to me and said that they were doing a re-org and would get back with me- that was two weeks ago, so I'm not sure what is going on with them. I also applied for a virtual staff analyst job working for corporate, it shows I'm still under consideration, so who knows!!!?? I love to have options, so well see! God will lead me to the right place for me and my family- I truely believe that!!!

Are you sure he's not a pig? Sure eats like one :)

This is the famous line from ET and this is how our little man has been eating lately. He's really wheened off so much milk and going straight for the food :) He eats 2/boxes at each serving now with oatmeal mixed in twice a day. he's really starting to realize that the food tastes better than the milk- LOL! Smart man. At such a young age its so easy to tell that he is going to have a passion for music. No matter what is going on, he can be screaming his head off and if he hears someone singing he immediately stops and looks for them. Its insane how intuitive to music he is. I have a feeling he will do something in the music biz maybe a producer or something. We all knew he would have a passion for music, but to notice singing and seem so into it at 5 months is amazing. He seems to think that our singing soothes him to sleep too ;) Janson is still sleeping in the playyard in our bedroom, but after Theana's wedding is over, I think we are going to try moving him to his own bed. He is sleeping now from 8pm-7am these days, which is great for a 5 month old. He's still alittle diva and quite the snuggler. Kelson is the BEST big sister- she is such an awesome helper! PS- Just an update- I never did hear back from Disney on the job, but I'm still seeing that its in the interview process online and I havent' received a "no longer under consideration" e-mail, so who knows. I know Boeing gets behind on a lot of their interview processes, so well see what happens. Whatever God has planned for us I'm game! This weekend is Theana and Mike's wedding- I can't believe it! So exciting! They both deserve to be married and together! Good ole Toodles and Speedo ;) I'm soooo excited about all the family coming up for the wedding- PARTY time and its not even November- LOL! Plus mom and dad are making the trip- so I'm VERY anxious about that. Kelson's FIRST ever t-ball game is tomorrow and pictures and also a game on Sat. I'm so looking forward to that. I bought her some cleats yesterday and her own bat. How stinking cute! Be looking for updates and pictures! Jason got the Botox shot last Friday and as of Sunday he couldn't talk- he's still at a whisper and this is 4 days later, but they said that his voice would be weird for 7-10 days after the shot. So I'll be anxious to hear him after this weekend. Fingers crossed and big prayers that this will give him a temporary fix for his voice.

Month 5- Rolling over, Diva King, and Jumping

Our little man is rolling over all the time now. He's got that part nailed. I can't believe how fast he is growing already. Lately he's been such a "diva king" when we aren't in his site and holding him, he's crying for us. We have tried to make him be more independent so we can get things done around the house while we watch him, but he won't have it. We pulled out the jumperoo and he LOVES it- another Kelson trait he inherited. Now that he is able to reach the ground he jumps like crazy. He still smiles more than any other baby I know and what a great personality. He is such a WONDERFUL morning person. He is still sleeping in the playyard in our bedroom, but I think after Theana's wedding, next weekend, WOW! we are gonna try to start putting him in his own crib. He doesn't get up during the night much anymore and is sleeping usually around 9pm-7:30/8am- pretty good for a 5 month old. What a great snuggler he is too. Kelson has been getting up several times during the night to sleep with us, we are trying really hard to avoid her doing that often, as we like to have some alone time when we can, plus she needs to learn to be in her own bed when its bed time. But then again I think about the future and when we will BEG for her to come snuggle and cuddle with us, so a lot of those memories make me want to hang on to her snuggling with us at night. Last weekend Jason played at the Gaylord Opryland hotel for a Boeing function and since I had the kids, I stayed at the Raddison hotel with them to hang out at the pool. This was his first time in a pool, the water was pretty cool, although it was supposed to be heated. Kelson had a BLAST and did very well swimming. We all dipped in the hot tub too- Janson seemed to like that, but since it was so hot we didn't stay in there long. Jason also watched Kelson and I play in the pool while he chilled in his stroller. Tomorrow, April 6th Jason gets to go to Vanderbilt for his first round of botox shots. We are PRAYING that it works the way we hope it will. Those shots are expensive, but the label is paying for them- thank goodness. I just hope he gets the results we have been hoping for. Heartland's new song should be coming out at the end of May, so I hope that Jason's voice will get better so he can record the next song in the studio. The other lead singer, Chad, has a phenominal voice as well so good luck to them all!

It was bound to happen

So I came home from work and noticed that Kelson's hair looked layered. Knowing that I hadn't cut her hair and that its normally straight across I asked her to come see me. When i did I grabbed her hair and it was short - like 5 inches- in the front than in the back. I said OMG, Kelson did you cut your hair!? She just looked at me and said she didn't know she wasn't supposed to and said she wanted to look like her friend Lola. Funny thing was Jason had been at home with her all day and didn't notice at all. So I made her go to her room for 10 minutes and told her that she wasn't allowed to use scissors for a month. She was more devistated that I was mad at her than anything. She is such a tender hearted child. So I told her that we would talk about it after she got out of time out. Honestly the cut was rather cute, but I wasn't gonna tell her that. So I went into her playroom and saw the glob of hair and scissors right next to it- LOL! I guess she was telling me that she wanted a summer haircut. I'm just so glad that it wasn't her bangs like most kids do, especially since Theana's wedding is next week. My feedback from facebook is that all kids do this- boys and girls- so I knew not to get too angry. She is a very smart girl and realized what she had done wrong and promises to only let mommy and Stacey cut her hair from now on. I took her to the beauty shop a few days later to get it all one length. It turned out cute... little schmuck! Ah- so it begins :) I have to admit she did look miserable and so sad in the before picture-- LOL! That's not my sweet Kelson.

More on the little man :)

Lastnight I laid him down in his playyard and went to do something and came back and he had rolled over :) I tried to get him to do it again, but he didn't seem to want to have a crowd when he was doing it. I noticed he looks like he's trying to pull his knees up too to crawl. My little man is trying to grow up WAY too fast. I've been calling my little piggly wiggly lately- he's been eating like crazy. At least 7oz of milk each feeding with food two times a day. He's a growing little guy- that's for sure. He smiles (flirts) more than any other baby I've ever seen. He's really start to coo and make noises, especially when someone speaks baby or french to him.

After looking at Kelson's first food, they pretty much had the same "first foods" :) How cool!
1st fruit- Bananas-- He loved em
1st veggie- Sweet Potatoes- seems to be his fav
2nd fruit- Applesauce- he loved that too
3rd fruit- Peaches- yummy- loves that too
He is a good eater no matter what I've given him! :)
Peas- those are coming up next

All About Me!!!!

Well, I just turned 33 years old last Thurs. So hard to believe, but life is going by fast anyways. I celebrated with friends at Jefferson Street Pub (where JAB was playing) then some fun time at the cave. Saturday we pretty much laid around and then we went to eat at CASA, then watched "Puss in Boots" in our new home theater. Its sooooo flipping awesome. Jason has been researching the perfect equipment to buy for over 2 years now (within our price range), so we were finally able to buy it all since we sold our Santa Fe. I will miss that great car, but Marian (Keith Donald's sister) wanted one, so we gave her a good deal on it, just like Keri did for us. So it was a WIN WIN for everyone. All in all we've spent around $10K for the home theater, but its so worth it. Jason and the kids gave me the Christmas Carol (Jim Carrey movie) in 3D with two pairs of glasses. Its great! We watched a little bit just to experience it. Its gonna be awesome. Jason is very pleased with everything we got and spends a lot of time in there- already. The kids watched "The Wizard of Oz" while I was at work a few days ago, so it looks like the whole family will get use out of it. So back to my birthday, I got some really great gifts. Kohl's gift card, Amazon gift card, blue ray movies, cute and stylish laptop carrier, bath and body works set, a blender for my low-fat smoothies, a cute shirt, and some adorable flip flops and AU lounge pants. All in all it was a GREAT bday. My sister had given me some cute Disney stuff.

So with all that going on, over the last couple of months I've been applying for Walt Disney World jobs. Well March 2nd, I got a call that my resume was pulled and I have a phone interview in about 5 minutes with the professional recruiter, so I'm excited and thrilled at the experience and gesture, but whether it will be a "move" I can make is the question. I haven't even gotten the job yet, so there is no promise there, but just considering it is a scary thing. Not scary, but different. Different place, move to FL, etc... all things have to be considered. Anyways, with that being said. I have to go finish preparing for the interview, so fingers crossed and may God show me the path for my future career and the right path for my family. Amen!

Month 4- Smiling, Eating, and Diva'ness

We had Janson 4 month checkup on March 6th. He weighs an even 15 lbs. He's 25 1/2 inches tall (same as Kelson was at this age)- we still think he will be around 5'11 or 6ft. His blue eyes are still blue as ever. He's starting to sit up very well on his own, therefore Dr. Zbell put him on fruits and veggies already. He's tried apples, bananas, and sweet potatoes already and ate them all quite well. I've been trying to sign "more" and "milk" already. He's a little young, but he's a smart little man, so he should catch on quick. He already blows bubbles back at us. He loves tummy time and looking around. He does not like to be put down or someone not paying attention to him. He is quite the snuggler and lots to smile. Bathtime is a joy with him- he has been splashing like crazy. Kelson and I get a big kick out of him when we all hang out in my bath tub. Since Kelson has been more interactive with him, she seems to really like having a little brother around. We did nickname his wee wee... since we call hers "Tuti" from Yo Gabba Gabba, I decided to call Janson's "muno". The character already looks like one anyways- LOL! I had to explain to Kelson while Janson had a muno and she has a tuti- that was fun!
Janson is quite the Man-diva... he is always wanting someone to play or hold him- no matter what. He is still sleeping around 10-11 hrs a night. Its exciting, but sometimes doesn't seem long enough... Overall we have two WONDERFUL children.

Kelson's spring break is this week so I'm gonna try to see if we can organize her playroom and toys and possibly donate some. She has SOOO many and lots of them were "phase toys" (where she was into something for a few months, then lost interest). Some I can keep for Janson, but she does play with a lot of her toys. She is getting cuter and more personable every day. She has so much fun at school and has learned so many cute songs. Her t-ball practice starts in a few weeks so I can't wait to start her on that. Our two babies are perfect!!! Having our big spacious van has been a lifesaver.

Update on the Alberts'

Lastnight Kelson asks me, Mommy, what age will Janson be when I get a baby sister? I have to admit I was a little shocked, as most of me feels we are done with having kids, although part of me really would like ONE more. I told Kelson that I wasn't sure if another baby was going to come along or if it did when it would be and I couldn't promise it was going to be a baby sister. She determined that Janson will be 18 (didn't say months or years), but I know I can guarantee it won't be years :) I did have the IUD put back in so we were planning on having anymore anytime soon, if at all. Don't want to mess with perfection, but we do make some adorable kiddos though.

Like I mentioned we went to visit the FL family a few weeks back. Got to hang out with Belle for her 6th bday- wow time flies- and go to disney with the family. The sad thing is that our family, Belle, and Kyle all got bed bugs from a rental house we stayed at in Orlando :( This has not been a fun process. Jason and I didn't notice the bites until a few days after coming back home, so I was scared that we may have brought them home with us. From what I can tell they are no easy thing to get rid of, so fingers crossed we didn't. Jason had a HORRIBLE reaction to them- over 100 bites, I had around 30, Kelson around 20 and luckily Janson, who was in the playyard has none. The owner told us that only one of the bedrooms had bed bugs, but it goes to show they can spread and the whole upstairs was infested- YUCK!!! I feel so dirty and always feel that something is crawling on me. They bite in 3's. good indication thats what we have. Other than this and coming back with colds, we are doing great and our little family is very happy and complete!

My job is going good. I'm working on reclassifing into the Marketing and Sales classification instead of being a staff analyst. This could mean more money and its better for growing within the company. More professional. So again, fingers crossed this goes through. I've been working this for a while now and would hate to leave my division, but being the bread winner I have to strive to keep our family comfortable and happy.

Another great thing about our FL trip was after we traveled down there we became proud owners of a 2007 Honda Odyssey van. I wasn't sure if I was going to be "cool" with becoming a van momma, but I LOVE it. Keri bought a new van, so she gave us a great deal on her used one. I don't mind hand me downs. So far I love it and its sooooo family friendly. Kelson seems to like it too. The perks on it are awesome too-sliding doors, dvd player, built in navigation, etc... What an awesome sis I have. We plan to sell our Hyundai Sante Fe- I will miss that car terribly, but its too small for our family. When we sell it I plan to pay Keri and give jason the money for our home theater- he's sooooo excited!

Jason and I are going up to Nashville on March 21st for Jason's vocal appointment with Dr. Garrett. She works for Vanderbilt and specializes in spasmodic dysphonia and administers the Botox shots. Jason felt excited and comfortable when I made the appt, almost like a relief to have someone who was actually going to help him. So well see what happens, but we have got to do something. Being from Vandy she has to be a GREAT doctor. We'll keep you posted.

Yesterday myself and Carissa, Mike Speed's sister, hosted a shower for Theana. It turned out really cute and we had around 25 guests. Theana was pretty sociable, although we had to remind her a few times to smile and say thank you ;). Overall it turned out great and she got some really nice gifts. So hard to believe she is gonna get married sometime this year.

Month 3- spitting and snuggling

This month Janson has really been spitting up a lot. We've tried several different formulas to meet his needs, but none seem to stop the spitting up. That's how we say he says hi to new folks- by soaking them- LOL! Poor guy. We started supplementing some oatmeal/rice to his milk to see if that would help make it thicker and stay down easier. Well first off we tried this because he was still hungry after 7oz of milk. He is taking to EATING very well, but still having spit up issues. The pediatrician says its normal, so I'm gonna gonna be concerned, just be sure to have plenty of bibs, hand towels, and detergent.
JAnson is quite the flirt and snuggler. He doesn't mind going to anyone and will usually smile to anyone as well. He is so happy most of the time and is such a joy to watch. His eyes are still super blue, so fingers crossed they will stay that way. He seems to be growing so much. We spent some time down in FL with the family and Juliet, whose 8 months now, is about the same size as our little guy. Its nuts. He has Jason's small eyes when he smiles.

He has a very sesitive stomach, so we've been giving him sensitive forumla. He LOVES to snuggle when its time for a nap, he loves attention, smiles almost all of the time, and loves his bathtime just like sister. He has a lot of the same similarities Kelson had at that age- drooling, chewing on hand, etc.. thank goodness I had a blog to remember it all.

I started working with him on "More, Milk, and Fan" signs. I know he's early, but wha the heck ;) It's so neat having a little boy around- especially one with so much personality.

Sharing the LOVE

Lately I've been trying really hard to share my time and love with both of the kids. I know that Janson doesn't understand, but he seems to feel rather comfortable with his mommy holding him, so I try to show Kelson lots of attention if I'm not holding him. Kelson has been wonderful with sharing me, she understands a lot for a 4 year old and doesn't get jealous. If I am holding Janson I ask Kelson to come snuggle with us or to come talk to her brother so she doesn't feel like he's getting all my attention. I love love love having a little baby around the house again. Although I've been AWFULLY tired this last week being at home alone, its been wonderful hanging with my babies. The house is a wreck though. I've been working full weeks, no virtual, so my schedule is a little harder to maintain, but so far so good. The weeks are flying by. With all the activities life brings I'm sure I'll just get even more worn out and tired... but hey, that's what makes life so great!

Heartland- TAKE TWO

This week Jason is in Nashville meeting with the record label and manager. They are working on a new and improved "Heartland". We are anxious to see what is going to happen. Because Jason has voice issues aka spasmodic dysphonia he is getting frustrated and unable to do any lead singing. Fingers crossed for him to try botox shots into his throat. Its been known to temporarily help. Surgery is LAST resort. He's been trying to do natural ways to cure it, but nothing seems to help :( I feel so bad for him, but we will find something that will work. I have a good feeling.
So the new Heartland group is just three guys: Jason, Charles (Heartland's fiddle player), and a new guy named Chad. Chad is singing the lead on the new single and he has a really awesome voice. VERY country- almost Meryl Haggard like. Jason Miller and Chopper are hired hands in this venture.

So I guess I'm getting the feeling of being a single mom this week and WHEW I don't know how some mom's do it and work full time. At least I have "the corner" to help me.

Like mother like daughter

I'm sooo excited-- I just signed Kelson up for T-ball this spring/summer. She was really excited too when I told her the good news. I thought she wouldn't be able to play for another year or so, but a friend of mine found out that Palmer Park, where I grew up playing softball, was taking kids at 4 years old. I offered to assistant coach, if needed. Asked what 3 things made me a good coach: 1) strong knowledge of the sport 2) playing in college 3) love kids and its just fun to play. I said that I had no experience coaching, but wouldn't mind helping out if needed. I can't wait to see little Kelson in her ball uniform. Well see if she takes to the sport like I did. Thanks to my mom and dad telling me I wasn't going to sit indoors all summer when we moved to Hsv in 89. It all started there. Annabelle and Corgan have been playing since last spring and Kelson has asked why she couldn't, guess they start em early in FL, so when I told her she was going to "run fast" (in the voice of Keith Donald) she was really excited! Course, mommy is too. Stay tuned! Oh- I suggested team names : Pirates (since we love pirates), Rangers (since my dad played Minor league ball for the Texas Rangers), or Marlins (Florida team that I've seen play a few times).

Month 2- Smiles and Growth

Janson had his checkup this morning with Dr. Zbell. He was a good boy. Had to get 3 shots :( Never fun to watch. BUT, he has gained around 5 lbs since his one week appt :) LOL! That's insane. So he weighs 12lbs 12oz (80%). We were all guessing around 10lbs. His height is 23 5/8 inches (75%) and he is gonna have BLUE eyes. I'm sooo excited. I was hoping both my kiddos would have blue eyes. Yea!!! I just imagine myself loving and hugging on him like my mom does on Kyle. Such a sweet thing. I'm starting to understand the whole mommy's boy thing. Janson's been doing really good at night- only getting up once now a night. Still eating around 6-7 oz (hence the weight gain). He's started to try and talk to us by cooing and holds his head up very well. He likes to be patted on his butt and snuggled. He LOVES bathtime :) just like his fishy sister. he wasn't sure at first, but since we give him baths so often he really loves the feeling. Its still hard to believe that he is here and been here for two months already. He's changed our lives and Jason, Kelson, and I have been a great team.
Kelson's still at Asbury Weekday and LOVES it. She looks forward to going. I still think the M/W/F thing works out great. I'm going to sign her up for Kindergarten soon. Sadly, the school only goes through Kindergarten so after that she will have to attend Endeavor (public school by our house). In the meantime she is learning about God, praying, crafts, and loves "her kids" etc.. I'm so blessed to have found that place.
I started back to work full time on Jan 3rd- wasn't as bad as I thought. I'm busier than ever so it makes the day go by and I have a good feeling I'm gonna get a promotion this year- fingers crossed.