Life Can Change So Fast

I guess I wasn’t good about keeping posts up, my last post was last April?! It’s now 2025. Sounds so weird to say that, especially when years like 2001, 1999 don’t seem that long ago. And then I do the math and I’m absolutely shocked. 

Last March I was diagnosed with cancer. Again. Life is so crazy sometimes. A friend of mind reminded me that I was diagnosed on March 4, 2008 the first time (her birthday), and this time around it was March 3, 2024. We all thought I was in the clear and having cancer was so far in my rear view mirror I rarely even thought about it. People were always shocked when they would find out that it is part of my story. I never dreamed I’d be faced with it again. Maybe that’s naive, but I’m also glad I lived those 17 years in that state of mind - ignorance can be bliss! I actually think life just made it too hard to even think about. Two boys, two moves, one move across the country… a LOT has happened in those 17 years. 

My cancer was found on accident this time around. I took a hard fall on my mountain bike at a downhill mountain bike course in Galena, Wisconsin. I was trying to keep up with the boys and there was a huge berm (google if you don’t know the word) and I slowed way down because I was scared. If you know anything about mountain biking, you know you never slow down for a berm. Long story short, I rolled down the hill. The pain wasn’t instant, I got up and told the boys what happened when I eventually caught up to them, but later the pain set in. My left hip started aching and the pain just never went away. Not debilitating, it didn’t keep me from working out or skiing (two of my favorite things) - just like a nagging headache that never goes away. I have a very high pain tolerance so that’s probably why it took me so long to go get it checked out. 

Fast forward to February. We were skiing at Vail and I decided I couldn’t live with the pain anymore. Again, it wasn’t debilitating- I never even took anything for the pain- just so annoying. I made an appt for a scan when we got home. 

I went straight to the specialist, a hip dr at ILBJ. He agreed a scan was necessary and told me he’d call right away with results. I never realized how much medical anxiety I have until my phone rang. I was weak and don’t remember much of the conversation. All I heard was “swollen lymph nodes.” I hung up pretty confused and also terrified. Anyone who has had lymphoma knows the fear of hearing those words. Sure, lymph nodes react all the time to illness etc, but it hits differently if you’ve had lymphoma. I knew that moment that something was wrong. 

I had been in the pickup line when he called so when I got home and could compose myself, I called back. Turns out I had a torn labrum in my left hip (as suspected) but they also noted a few swollen lymph nodes in my right inguinal area (right groin). He recommended I get them checked out based on my history. And that is the day my life changed. I spiraled so fast I don’t even remember much of the two months after. I have never had debilitating fear like that. It was pure hell. Waiting for a biopsy, waiting for biopsy results. I couldn’t eat, I was having panic attacks and I was consumed with dark thoughts of dying and not being here to see the boys grow up. I have never been so low and I wouldn’t wish it on anyone. 

Waiting for biopsy results was the longest wait. And then it happened. Almost 5pm on March 3… phone rings and it says “Seba.” I changed the number to her name so I could be prepared for the call. I ran upstairs but couldn’t bring myself to answer it. I waited for the voicemail. It was the nurse. Such great news. In my mind, this meant it was nothing. So I quickly called back, feeling so relieved. The nurse decided to have me talk to the dr. My regular oncologist was out of town so she put me through to someone else. His first words were “Hi Katie. Tell me what you know…” Huh? I know nothing! I just had a biopsy and have been scared to death waiting for these results! I know nothing! He then went on to tell me it’s lymphoma based on the preliminary biopsy results but they would know more hopefully soon. He then said “I gotta say, this sucks! I’m only 2 years older than you and you’ve had this twice now??” I couldn’t believe my ears and that is not something I needed to hear at 4:55pm as their office is closing. I hung up in shock and quickly switched to Mom mode. I didn’t want Luke to be late to soccer. I don’t know how I managed to drive him there safely and completely forget about what I had just found out, but moms have super powers like that I guess!

I had told my book club ladies a few nights before… I needed so much support. The first person I saw after getting Luke into soccer was a book club friend. The timing was perfect and I immediately felt comfort. She told me I would be ok and those are the words I needed to hear. I went to the car and called my sister after that. I don’t remember much of that conversation other than being scared to tell her. All throughout this cancer journey, I never want anyone to be scared or worried about me. I know, impossible.. but I imagine being on the other side of it. I know I would be so worried and upset and it’s so hard to see friends and family like that. 

My sister wanted to fly out that day but I wanted to keep life as normal as possible. The boys had no idea what was going on and, well, see above. The thought of them being scared was just too much. We decided to wait and see what the next steps would be. It took me TWO days to get the courage to tell Joe. Poor guy has been through it with me. He was so positive it was nothing, I couldn’t stand the thought of telling him I was sick again. It was horrible and so painful to get those words out. 

Days later I found out this time around I have follicular lymphoma. I heard key words that stuck on the phone call “slow growing” “low grade” “looks like it’s localized.” There was a lot more info, but I took those phrases and kept repeating them over and over. We wouldn’t know for sure about it being localized until my PET scan but I was hopeful. 

My sister flew out for my PET scan and thank goodness she did. Not sure how I would’ve driven myself there. Of course friends would’ve helped but nothing better than my sister. Joe of course was wanting to help but I was so worried about keeping everything from the boys. I wanted their life to be completely normal, no babysitters, no one but us picking them up/taking them to school… 

On my way to drop my sister off at the airport days later I got a call as we were approaching the terminal. The dreaded “Seba” came across my screen. I immediately hit “reject.” Cat-like reflexes! I did NOT want to hear what she had to say about my PET scan. My sister was so mad. “I am not getting on that plane until I know the results!” I promised I would call as soon as I heard but if she didn’t get out she would miss her flight. She got out and we made a deal that I would call her as soon as I heard… and if it wasn’t good news, I would circle around and pick her back up. We played phone tag for a bit but finally I got the call and the good news that the lymphoma was just in the inguinal area. That call will be one that I will never forget. I felt so giddy. I was so happy! In that moment, I knew I would be ok… 

Wow, I forget how therapeutic writing is for me. But it’s 6:58 am and I promised Liam I would wake him up early to study for the three tests he has today… I’ll write more later.

Eight (8!) years since my last post!

Wow, eight years since my last post!  A lot of life has happened since 2016! 

We now live in the cutest little suburb of Chicago called Libertyville.  In 2018 we purchased an independent paper testing laboratory, Chicago Paper Testing Lab.  We moved from Longview on July 25, 2018.  It’s hard to believe we have been Illinois residents for almost six years.  

Libertyville is such a great place to raise a family.  I would’ve been in heaven living here when I was a kid!  Kids are always out and about on their bikes, they are close enough to ride their bikes to school and on a regular basis the police report says “nothing to report this week.”  It is not lost on me that we are extremely lucky to be in this little bubble.

Liam is now 13!  He is in 7th grade and doing great.  He is an amazing skier, mountain biker and just an all-around cool kid.  

Luke will be 10 in July.  He is in 3rd grade this year and he is sad that the school year is almost over because he loves his teacher so much.  He has the biggest heart and still has that full head of red hair!

I’m wondering if anyone still reads this.  I’m not even sure what made me think of it and I can’t believe I remembered my password!

We’ll call this post a test to see if anyone is still out there.  😅

Goodbye 2015, Hello 2016!

Happy New Year's Eve!  As always, I was shocked to see I haven't blogged in over a year.  But as today is the last day of 2015, I thought I'd take a minute to say goodbye to the year!  It's more for my memory than anything else, I almost forgot I had a blog so I'm sure I don't have any readers.

I must say 2015 was probably the busiest year of my life thus far.  They say the years start going faster, I really can't wrap my brain around that.  How is that even possible?!  And as I sit here thinking back on the year, it is all kind of a blur.  I guess that's what having two young children will do to your brain!

The highlights---vacations!  Always the best part of the year for me.  We went on a week long beach trip with Joe's family/cousins/aunts/uncles in July.  Joe's cousin and family from New York even came, it was so fun getting to bond with their kids.  We would give anything if they lived closer.  This trip coincided with Luke's 1st birthday so we had quite the celebration.

In August Joe and I got a free trip to Fort Lauderdale.  Joe was offered a job with Kemira and they had him down to job shadow.  We were SO close to taking the job they wanted me to come check out the area as well.  It was my first time away from Luke---and the farthest I've ever gone without Liam.  Both boys stayed with Joe's parents and they had a blast.  And I must say Joe and I did as well.  It's a beautiful area, we fell in love with it.  We were also spoiled big time.  Room upgrades, amazing meals.  I have to tell myself it wouldn't have been like that day in and day out if we had moved.  To say I'm not mourning that adventure would be a lie.  I think it would've been a totally amazing opportunity for our little family and a great bonding experience.  It was life a giant tug of war.  They wanted us, no one wanted us to go.  It was extreme highs and lows.  Excitement one minute and fears and tears the next.  And when I say we were close to moving, I mean it was pretty much a done thing.  Liam was even registered for preschool and we were set to go back and look at houses.  Joe decided last minute to go a different direction.  And I admit the summers would've sucked.  Big time.  We were there at the hottest time of the year.  At dinner one night we decided to sit outside to get the true experience.  I was totally soaked with sweat.  Forget eating---I had no appetite.  Looked like I just ran three marathons I was so sweaty!

In October we surprised Liam with a trip to San Diego for his 5th birthday.  My baby is 5!  Truly unbelievable.  We were down there for a week and had the most amazing time.  The real surprise was on his birthday, both sets of grandparents joined us for the remainder of the trip.  The look on his face when he saw them waiting for us to pick them up at the airport is something I'll never forget.  He was so, so excited.  The love he has for his grandparents is so special and fun to see.  I love it.

Time always seems to go fast after Liam's birthday.  We turn around and it's the holidays!  I honestly haven't even gone through all of his birthday presents and now we have a new load from Christmas.  Most say December birthdays are hard, I think Liam's birthday is too close to Christmas too.  Luke is the lucky one with a July birthday!

Joe's company (Kemira) shut it's doors in September.  It's been a very emotional process.  They saw so much potential in Joe they were doing everything they could to keep him.  But alas, he decided to be brave and make his own path.  He is starting his own business.  Me, being the one that pays the bills, was scared to death.  Like Joe says, Florida would've been the safe option.  He is a risk taker and wants to take the risk.  We are still young if it doesn't take off but it's looking like it will be an amazing thing.  With that said, there's a lot of 'hurry-up-and-wait' when starting a business.  He's been working from home since his last day in September (office space almost secured though) so we've all gotten large doses of Joe.  At first I had a really hard time---talk about throwing our routine out the window.  And I am a huge routine person!  I really changed my frame of mind after talking to one amazing person that knows our situation at MOPS.  She told me to embrace it.  It is short term and most people and children never get to spend time like that with their father.  It will be over and he'll be working long hours before we know it so just enjoy everyday.  I came home feeling like a new person.  That was just what I needed to hear.  Truer words have never been spoken.  When Joe was at Kemira, the boys would go days without seeing him (gone before they woke up and in bed before he got home).  Gone for dinner some weeks, sleeping all day other weeks.  It was really hard on all of us.  Luke especially has bonded with him in a way that is so special to see.  Liam was already his best bud but it's been awesome to see Luke with him.  Luke has the best of both worlds.  His three favorite people are with him 24/7!  And with all of that said, it will soon be ending as they've just about secured a place to launch.  So exciting!

Luke is changing so much.  He has the best personality and disposition.  He is at a really fun age but also the hardest age.  I forgot about this stage!  Throwing food, throwing little fits...in to EVERYTHING and unlike Liam, he is a climber.  I can't turn my back for even a second.  I went to throw garbage away and when I came back in, he was standing on the dining room table slipping around on the table runner.  He's getting really good, he can get up AND down now but it's still scary.  From around Thanksgiving until right before Christmas was the hardest time I've ever had with him.  I think he was going through the 18 month sleep regression on top of getting 7 or 8 new teeth.  It was so rough.  His normal wake up time in the morning is between 7-8am but he was waking up at 5 and not going back to sleep.  His normal naps also stopped.  I would've been fine with that but he was so exhausted and cranky he couldn't not nap.  Some days he was so upset and fighting nap so hard he would sleep standing up.  That's right.  Sound asleep standing up in his crib.  Most days that didn't even happen though, just screaming and fighting it like crazy.  Not normal for the boy who usually just laid down and waved to me as I left the room.  Finally it stopped, about exactly a month later.  He's back to his normal wake up time and taking awesome afternoon naps.  Thank goodness, I really thought my life was over for a bit.  It's one thing to skip nap if he sleeps until 8 or 9 but to get up at 5 and not nap makes for all of us being cranky.

I'm still participating in MOPS (Mothers of preschoolers) and actually took a position on the Steering (leadership) team this year.  I absolutely love every minute of it.  It's great being more involved in something that I am so passionate about.  MOPS has been such a great thing for me.  I've met so many great friends.  In fact, when we thought we were moving to Florida, I connected with the nearest MOPS group to the area we'd be living.  The support I got from the women was amazing---so kind, so welcoming.  It made me feel not-so-alone.  It's so important to have a community like that being a stay-at-home-mom.

I also began volunteering with the Make-A-Wish foundation.  I haven't worked on a wish yet but I am looking forward to that in 2016.

One of the things I'm most looking forward to in 2016:  SKIING!  It's been two seasons without any trips to the mountain for me.  The year before last I was pregnant, last season I was nursing and wasn't able to leave Luke all day.  But now.  Now I'm free!!!  Just gotta line the grandparents up to babysit. :)  We are going to put Liam in lessons this year.  Not sure who is more excited, him or us!  I can't wait until all four of us can ski together.  I'm sure it wont be long until I can't keep up with them!

We are also looking forward to two confirmed vacations.  I love having vacations to look forward to!  The first is a spring break trip.  Doing the annual Sanderson trip in April instead of the summer.  We'll be gone for a week, going somewhere sunny and warm with lots of pools.  Any guesses?  I don't think anyone will ever guess. ;)  Joe's cousin Katie and family are joining all the way from New York so we can't wait for some cousin time!  Then this summer we are spending a week in Sunriver.  My dad surprised us all at Christmas with a trip.  I can already smell it (Sunriver has such a distinct smell)!  Luke will be TWO and it will just be so much fun.

Joe and I also want to get away for our birthdays.  Just a little mini getaway, one or two nights.  We actually want to do Six Flags again---we are rollercoaster obsessed!  My birthday is on a Friday this year so hopefully it will work out.

I think 2016 will be a great year.  My goal is to enjoy everyday, not dwell on the past and try not to wish time away.  That's hard at times when kids are small.  Excited for when they hit milestones so things will be easier. But then I look back and miss the time when they were so small.  I really realize how fast it goes now that Liam is 5, starting kindergarten in September.  Time to step back and enjoy every crazy moment.

Goodbye 2015, Cheers to the best 2016!

Happy December

Happy December!  The picture above is my view this morning.  I forced myself to get up so I could enjoy a few minutes with my coffee and the tree.  This is my favorite time of the day and it's even better with a tree!

We used our Charlie Brown tree this year.  For the past few years we've gone out into the forest and gotten one.  I'm not talking a tree farm, I'm talking the national forest.  We buy a permit, drive on logging roads and come home with a gorgeous tree.  It just seemed hard this year for some reason.  I'm blaming it on Luke.  It's a long car ride, a lot of walking around in the woods in very cold weather....this just seemed easier.  Liam was so excited to decorate.  I'm calling this his tree this year.  All of our collectible ornaments, none of the fancy stuff.  Now all Joe needs to do is get some lights up outside and we'll call it good.  Being that this is our first Christmas in our new house, he's not sure what his plan is yet.  He had lights for our old house down to a science.  My vote is just simple and minimal this year.  Probably because that means less time outside and more time with him inside helping me with Luke.  :)

Off to enjoy my coffee before the babies wake up and my day officially begins..

Two days shy of a year

Only two days shy of a year since my last post.  I try not to let myself feel guilty about my lack of blogging, these days it's hard to even get the daily things done, let alone have time to sit down at the computer and actually write.  

SO much has happened since my last post, I'm not even sure where to begin.  Liam still continues to amaze us each and every day.  His vocabulary, his passion, his heart.  He is so special. He had his 4 year check-up yesterday and he had everyone cracking up.  He's funny, smart, tender hearted...really a perfect little human being.  He started pre-school last January.  He had a hard time leaving me, that was the first time he'd ever been left with anyone but family, but he adjusted by the end of the year.  In fact, his school offered summer camps, fun little sessions that were three hours a day, and he insisted on doing ALL of them.  I think there were six!  He's a thriving little boy and he makes me proud every day.  

Just a few days after my last blog, I announced I was pregnant!  It was on Thanksgiving actually!  Fast forward to today and I now have the sweetest little boy, Luke.  He's already four months old.  Unbelievable how fast time is going this time around.  He has the reddest hair, just as Liam predicted. :)

After we found out we were expecting, life got really busy with things we hadn't even planned on happening.  We bought a new home---we hadn't even planned on moving, my mom just happened to see an ad for it in the paper, for sale by owner, I called about it, we looked at it that day and put earnest money down a few days later.  We hadn't even listed our house so we were taking a big chance.  Everything always seems to work out though.  We sold our house to a lady in Portland, she called and made a full price offer within ten minutes of seeing it.  Full price and CASH!  So the transaction was so fast and smooth.  It was a whirlwhind!  We moved in at the end of March.  We absolutely love it.  We loved our old house but we had outgrown it.  We now have more space for Liam to play, a bigger back yard, a much better elementary school when the kids start....it just feels more like a home.  

Two days after we got moved in we took off for a week in Scottsdale with Joe's parents.  What a fun trip!  Liam still talks about it.  In May we took Liam to San Diego, our last trip as a family of three.  It was so magical.  The perfect age to take him.  He was so fun!  We went to Legoland, SeaWorld and the San Diego Safari Park.  It was a wonderful trip, so many fun memories made!

And then in June, Joe and I took one last trip just the two of us.  I saw "one last" as if we go a lot.  Lol.  I should say "one last" and "our second ever" trip. :)  We went to Vegas for two nights.  It was fun to getaway but something about being almost 9 months pregnant and being in 112 degree heat just isn't the most enjoyable.  We definitely need a re-do.  But not to Vegas.  We weren't fans.  But maybe it had something to do with the heat and the huge and pregnant factor?

After that trip it was hurry up and wait for Luke to arrive.  We got a lot of house projects done and enjoyed every minute with Liam.  My biggest fear about having a second was that he would feel left out.  I still worry but he has (for the most part) adjusted really well.  Luke was born on July 14 at 7:30pm.  It was another fast and easy birth.  Even easier than Liam actually. My dr was amazing.  Amazing!  He made it all so calm and relaxing.  Yeah, I said relaxing!  I loved giving birth this time around, I knew exactly what was going on and it was just all so surreal.  Liam predicted for months before that Luke would have a "red hair bomb."  We have no idea where he came up with that, as we don't even know anyone with red hair.  My sister got him on video saying it before he was born, he was up on the bed with me.  Sure enough, brother had/has a red hair bomb.  Everyone was totally shocked!  

Life as a family of four has been easier than I thought it would be.  The age difference between Liam and Luke has really helped.  I got to enjoy so much with Liam, and I get quite a bit of one-on-one time with Luke when Liam is at school.  The hardest part is not having as much time with just Liam.  Once I'm not having to nurse Luke as much, I think it will be easier to have dates with just Liam.  He's pretty understanding, but he has shown some regression.  Mostly at school---he doesn't want me to leave him most days. :(  But he gets over it as soon as I walk away so I'm hoping it's just a quick phase.  It breaks my heart though!  I'm so thankful for my parents, they really help so much with both boys so I don't have to miss out on volunteering in his class, going on field trips.  So at least he knows I still want to be involved in his life!  It's just a little crazier these days. 

Ok, gotta get that last cup of coffee in before my two little bosses wake up.  I feel like a weight has been lifted off now that I blogged---if I can just keep it up now!  Here's to hoping!  

Happy Thanksgiving if I still have any readers out there!

Just THANKFUL

Gosh, I'm so lazy.  I couldn't even keep up with my thankful posts!  Oh well, at least I'm getting one more in before the big day.  Today I am thankful for my health.  I was so sick Monday night and yesterday.  I can't remember ever being that sick.  It was awful.  Thankfully my mom was home and was able to step in and take care of my mom duties.  First time ever I haven't been able to take care of Liam, what a horrible feeling.  He had a fun day with Grandma though.

We went and got our Christmas tree last weekend!  It was our second year of going to the National Forest to get it and we had a great time.  It was a beautiful day, there was snow when we got there and we ended up with a gorgeous noble, probably about 11 feet tall, for $5.  Not a typo.  Five dollars.  Amazing.  I must admit I'm more in Christmas mode than Thanksgiving for the first time ever.  I blame it on Thanksgiving being so late this year.  Hopefully it's earlier next year.  Need more time to savor both holidays!

Hope everyone has a wonderful Thanksgiving!

Thankful Days 12 and 13

Thankful Day 13:  I am SO thankful how easily Liam has took on the task of potty training.  He is so stubborn, when I would ask or try, he would absolutely freak out and say he didn't want to, diapers are more comfortable, didn't want to be a big boy...you name it.  Then the day before Halloween we were at Carly's and he made a deal with me that he'd try to go on the "big boy potty" when we got home from Gavin's.  I thought he was just humoring me so I made him shake on it.  And then had to explain what shaking on it meant.  Anyway, sure enough, when we got home from Gavin's, he ran to the bathroom and went.  WHAT?!?!  Who is this kid!  And it's been smooth sailing since.  He's had a few accidents but I would say less than 10.  I haven't gotten brave enough to do the undies when we are out and about, but I think he would do fine as his diapers are usually dry when we get home.  YES.  I thought he'd be in diapers until college for sure!

Thankful Day 12:  Yesterday I was thankful for having the best day ever on Monday.  We took Joanna to a spa in Portland for her baby shower gift.  And we decided to all go with her and make it a girls day (thanks for agreeing to that, Jo)!  The weather was gorgeous, the spa treatment was heavenly and dinner and all 4 of our desserts were delicious.  My cup was full that night.  I absolutely love days like that!

Three days behind!

Thankful Day 9:  Thankful for my morning coffee.  It's what gets me out of the bed in the morning---and I go to bed at night looking forward to it.  Best enjoyed with a silent house, newspaper (yes, I still read a newspaper and it gets delivered daily!) and then phone or computer time.  Ahhhh.  Mornings are my favorite time of the day.

Thankful Day 10: Thankful that I had a boy.  When I found out I was having a boy, I couldn't imagine it.  I admit I even cried like a baby the next day to my mom.  I was worried he won't love me like I love my parents when he grows up (just because he's a boy), that he'd be crazy (I was right about that one) and I wouldn't know what to do with him.  Fast forward three years to now.  I really can't imagine having a girl.  And if we have another, although I'm not too hung-up on gender, I think I would prefer a boy.  They are so much easier.  And it's true, they sure do love their mamas---even if he does beat me daily. ;)

Thankful Day 11:  Thankful for a fun-filled weekend!  Saturday was my friend Joanna's baby shower.  It was a couples shower and it ended up being more like a bbq.  I left to help Mikie at around 10am and didn't get home that night until 8:30pm.  Exactly how I like my days to be!  We also got to enjoy a great adult-only dinner to celebrate Joanna's birthday.  It's so nice to have a meal in peace!  Yesterday was opposite at dinner.  Liam isn't the best restaurant goer.  I'm used to it, I've accepted it...we try not to eat out much anyway...but it's like taking a wild animal out of the zoo!  The place we went was packed so Joe, Liam and I had to squeeze in one side of the booth.  I was in the middle and got trampled on, fooded on, crayoned on, you name it.  I still managed to enjoy my dinner, it was SO good, but it's even better when I'm not getting clobbered on the entire time. THEN we went to PDX and rented a minivan!  We are seriously contemplating buying one so we decided to rent one for a few days.  So far I am in love.  It's the greatest thing ever.  I can't wait to go pick my parents up and give them a ride.  And then my sister and Sophie.  Liam didn't want to get out when we got home. :)

Thankful Day 8

This morning I am thankful for my discovery of these.  My favorite breakfast is two scrambled egg whites on an English muffin with Laughing Cow cheese.  These English muffins make the sandwich!  And I don't feel as guilty eating them as I did some of the others.

That's all.  Happy Friday!

Thankful Day 7

Today I am thankful for a husband who is super mechanical and can fix all of our car problems.  He has been working in Washougal this week and called and his way home last night and said he was pulled over at a gas station, the driver side windshield wiper stopped working.  He didn't know what to do, he didn't have tools (he usually ALWAYS carries a small tool set with him) and it was raining too hard to drive without them.  He told me he'd call me back, and the next time he called, he had figured it out--e borrowed a wrench from the gas station and got it fixed.  AND, a few weeks ago when our car blew a head gasket, he got it all fixed---it was a big project and he even had to pull the engine out---and saved us more than $3,000 (the price to fix at the shop).  Thanks, Joe.  You are so smart and I love that about you!

Thankful

It's that time of year again, a lot of people are posting what they are thankful for EVERY SINGLE DAY on Faceobok.  It actually seems like a lot less are doing it this year, maybe because so many people ridicule it?  Someone posted something yesterday that said, "It's that time of year again---when people who've complained non-stop for the past year are suddenly thankful for 30 days."  (Or something like that).  Lol.

I decided to try it on here, maybe it will motivate me to blog every day.  I have some catching up to do.  And keep in mind, these are no where close to being in order of thankfulness.

November 1:  SO thankful for Liam not asking a single question about his Halloween candy.  I thought for sure it would be a battle all day.  Also thankful for the best Halloween yet.  It was a blast!

November 2:  Thankful that Joe has every Saturday and (kind of) Sunday off.  He has a crazy work schedule, we value our weekends so much!

November 3:  Thankful for long-time friends.  I went to Dana's baby shower tonight, we've been friends for about 18 years.  Hard to believe, and happy these people are still in my life after all that time.  Fun to see everyone having babies, too!

November 4:  Thankful for my relationships with Joe's family. His aunt and uncle stopped by on their way home from the beach today, I love them.  They're like a second set of parents to me.  They listen to my complaints, give me advice...they are both important people in my life.

November 5:  Thankful for MOPS (Mothers-of-Preschoolers).  I started going last year but got more involved this year, I needed the accountability to force myself to go.  It was out of my comfort zone to leave Liam (and he really doesn't like it) so I knew getting involved would force me to keep trying rather than just skipping it.  I've met some great moms and it helps so much to know I'm not alone---we are all in this together!  I always leave feeling refreshed.

November 6:  Thankful that my immediate family lives in town.  Although I have a feeling my sister might not be here for long, it's so fun having Sophie and Liam grow up together.  I never had any cousins that were close in age and always envied those that did.  They love each other so much, even if they do fight like siblings at times!  And it's so nice to be able to have spontaneous lunch dates, playdates, etc.  And Liam loves being able to drop by my parents house to play.

Ok, bored out of your mind yet?  I'm making fun of myself for doing this.  We'll see if I actually keep it up.
Hope everyone has a great Wednesday!

Halloween 2013

When we have another baby, I need to remember that things really start getting entertaining, exciting and super fun at around age three.  Not that previous years weren't fun, this year was just the best yet.  And I think a lot of it has to do with the age.  Liam absolutely LOVED Halloween this year.  I'm feeling sad I didn't get a video of him trick-or-treating in our neighborhood.  It was so cute to see a tiny Minion sprinting (not exaggerating) from house to house.  Then after the person opened their door he had to make small talk with them.  It was hilarious.  He kept asking one lady why she didn't have "sloppers."  That's Liam for Whoppers.  He's never even had them before!  He was running so fast, sometimes he'd run right by a house without even realizing it.  Then he would put on his brakes.  He started making this new braking sound last night.  He'd get to a driveway and make a loud braking sound and stop.

Kim and I took the kids to the Street of Screams at the fairgrounds.  Liam was terrified of that because there was a guy wearing a scary mask in front of us.  Speaking of masks, there was a dad wearing one in our neighborhood last night and Liam kept telling him to take it off.  He has no shame!  Thankfully the guy did, it was pretty terrifying---and our neighborhood is full of little kids.

When we got back to our house after trick-or-treating, the kids were equally excited to be the ones opening our door and handing out candy.  And Liam was quick with the questions again.  "Why are you wearing a mask?" (to a girl who wasn't...oh, liam). Then a huge truck drove by blaring, "What does the fox say?" And Liam went wild.  The sugar definitely had kicked in (more) at that point and we had to listen to the song a few times before he went to bed.

Liam is already talking about what he wants to be next year for Halloween.  So far he says an orange M&M.  ;)

Hope everyone had a fun Halloween!  Happy November!

The big THREE!

Even though he's holding up four fingers, Liam is now officially THREE.  I can't believe it!  We did his birthday differently this year, instead of a huge party at our house with all of his friends/our friends/family, we just had two small family parties.  It was perfect and he loved the fact that he got to have TWO parties.  Two cakes.  Two sets of presents.  It doesn't get much better than that.

His first party was with my family and we just went to a local pizza place.  Talk about easy.  No prep work, no clean up.  I could get used to that.  His second party was on Sunday, his actual birthday, and in Auburn at Joe's aunt/uncle and cousins house.  Uncle Jack made pizza dough so we had a pizza party.  There were 22 people at this party!  And except for two, it was all family.  It was a perfect day.  I'm sad it's over, I've been looking forward to it for so long.  I feel like I can't thank the Markhams enough for letting us have his party there----and to Jack for making all of the dough and baking all of the individual pizzas.  It's a lot of work.  It was a great day though, no rain so people could be outside.  He had a fire going (besides the one in the oven) so everyone stayed warm.  I married into an amazing family.  Liam is one lucky little boy to have so many great people in his life, on both sides.  Sunday was definitely one of those days where I was on cloud nine.  Life is so good.

Liam, happy birthday.  You bring so much joy and happiness to our lives.  There's never a dull moment with you around, your humor and sarcasm amazes me (and scares me a little).  You are so smart, so sweet and at the same time, a total jerk when you want to be.  I don't think you'd be normal if you didn't have a little bit of a naughty streak though, right?  I keep telling myself that....

Here's to hoping year number three in the life of Liam is the best yet!

Slow down, October!

Today is October 16?  My favorite month is slipping by way too quickly.  We've been having gorgeous weather in the PNW, I believe the high today is 66.  No end in sight with the sun either, sunshine for the (at least) the next 7 days.  It was beautiful like this three years ago, right before Liam was born.  I walked the lake almost every morning in the fog---just before the sun started peeking through the clouds.  Little did I know that in just a few short days my little sweet boy would make his arrival.  I was already past due, but felt like he'd never come.  It's really hard to believe three years ago I was pregnant.  In some ways it feels like a lot longer, in others it just doesn't seem possible that my "baby" is turning the big THREE on Sunday. Bittersweet for sure.  He continues to amaze me more and more everyday.  He is so smart, incredibly witty and has so much love for everyone.  He loves pancakes, all sweets and broccoli is still "too good for him" to eat.  :)  He is a huge car nut and can tell you where almost all of his cars came from/who gave certain cars to him, etc.  It's also safe to say he is a huge mamas boy.  He wants me around all of the time, freaks out when I leave him and refuses to be left with people he doesn't know---when other kids his age are happy to be left if there's a sufficient amount of toys to keep them occupied.  He refuses to talk about potty training and gets mad when I mention it.  He often says, "I don't want to wear big boy underwear because diapers are more comfortable."  And yes, he really talks like that.  He is a great talker and loves having conversations.

I wasn't planning on writing all about him but I guess it's no surprise I did.  Gotta go though, the little man is demanding more pancakes.  Happy Wednesday!

Another great weekend in the books

Happy Thursday!  I feel like we are still recovering from last weekend and it's already almost the weekend again.  I think it's safe to say this has been the busiest summer ever.  I thought it would start to slow down, but fall is looking just as busy.  No rest for the weary!

I worked last Friday at Broadway Elementary school.  I was in the office and I loved it.  Joe was off, so him and Liam had a "daddy & Liam day."  Good for both of them and I came home feeling refreshed and feeling good about life.  Not that I don't when I'm at home but it sure is nice to do something different every once in awhile.  Usually my "breaks" consist of running errands or grocery shopping.  It's different setting an alarm, getting up and actually wearing "work" clothes and knowing I'm making money rather than spending it.  I was supposed to work until 2 but she asked me if I'd mind working until 3.  While I was there, I secured three more jobs for the end of September and beginning of October.  Yay!  My goal is to work all of Joe's days off (unless we have something planned).  Once I have thirty days in, I get a big raise.  Yippee!  More than halfway there.

Saturday we took off for Puyallup, Uncle Jack invited Joe and I to go fishing with him on Sunday so we needed to get up there since we had to leave at 4:30am on Sunday.  We didn't do much Saturday but big breaking news: Liam slept in a big boy bed!  His pack-n-play was becoming very cramped so they went and bought him a bed.  I was apprehensive, especially since every time I mentioned it Liam would freak out, but he was excited once he saw it and loved. it.  He woke up crying at 2am, Joe went in the room and he was out of bed and really confused.  I came in and put him back in bed and he fell asleep right away.  I thought for sure we'd have a sleepless night.  Thanks for proving us wrong, buddy!  All of these big transitions are always easier than I make them out to be.  I just gotta remember that.  Now if only he would get on the potty training train.  I feel like that one will never happen.  I think he has a hard time with change and that is one that he just isn't ready to do yet.  For the sake of my sanity (and his), I think it's best to just wait a bit longer.

Sunday we got up at 3:45 and were out the door and on our way to Everett at 4:30.  I admit I am a really bad fisher-lady but it is so much fun going.  I lost several fish but I also caught a pretty good sized one.  It's an adrenaline rush for sure.  It was a gorgeous day on the water, I didn't want to go back in.  We stopped at Cupcake Royale on the way back to get Jayne and David cupcakes, it was Grandparents Day (and for always babysitting so we can have fun).  We had a salmon bake that night with the Markham's, it was delicious and Liam and Dylan played hard.

Monday we went to the Puyallup Fair.  We were excited because Liam could ride rides this year.  Last year he was too young.  We didn't know how he'd do, he can be weird about stuff like that sometimes, but he loved them.  Especially the big huge giant slide.  He didn't want to go on it at first but after he did, he had a meltdown because he wanted to keep going on it.  The fair is EXPENSIVE!  We did the sky ride at the end, it was $18 one way for all of us!  I couldn't believe it.  It was fun though, Papa David went with us, I think he enjoyed seeing Liam on all of the rides.

Hope everyone is doing well.  Happy September!

Future class clown

Whenever someone asks Liam what his name is, he gets a mischievous smile on his face.  I can totally see the wheels turning as he's trying to think of something funny to say.  His standard answers are:  Bob, Silly Willy or Poo Poo.  Where do they come up with this stuff?  The things he says always amaze me.  Yesterday we were driving to town and passed a building that used to be a produce stand we went to a lot when he was a baby--it's been at least a year or more since they've been open.  He randomly asked if that was the building we used to go get cherries at.  How do they remember this stuff?  When I told him yes it was but they went out of business he replied with, "Well goodness, that sure is odd."  Hahahaha.

BIG NEWS in our house.  A couple of weeks ago Liam threw his binky in the garbage!  Joe and I had been in Seattle on an impromptu date night, Joe's parents were babysitting.  When we got back Jayne told us what he had done.  I was devastated.  I was needing sleep badly that night and was not very happy it was gone---it had been a rough week and this was the topper!  Not to mention it was the ONLY binky he would use and we even had.  I was about to go get an emergency one at Walgreens but I knew I couldn't do that.  To our surprise, he did fine that night and hasn't asked about it since.  He'll tell people he threw it away but doesn't get upset about it.  Thank goodness.  I did make Jayne dig it out of the garbage after we left though, I couldn't stand knowing it would end up at the dump.  That binky was with my baby for a long time---I'm going to cut the nipple off and save it.  I'm just glad it was easier than we thought it would be.  He was addicted to it.  It made for some early mornings and no-nap days as he adjusted but we are pretty much back to our routine.  I cancelled his dentist appointment earlier this month, I knew I would get lectured about him still having it because at his appointment 6 months ago the dentist said it needed to be gone the next time he saw us.  We rescheduled for tomorrow and I have a little guy who is very excited to tell the dentist what he did. :)

We also took Liam to his first movie yesterday.  We want to take him to see Planes but wanted to see if he could make it through an entire movie first.  When I say this is his first movie, it's not just his first movie in a theatre.  It was his first movie ever.  We aren't big tv/movie watchers in our house.  He did great!  He was totally taken with the experience, loved every minute of it and said he wants to go see Planes next.

Happy Wednesday, I feel good that I got some of this written down.  I'll consider this his baby book since that is totally non-existent.  ;)

This past weekend Joe and I were in Naches for Aili and Ryan's wedding (I was a bridesmaid).  It was at Whistlin' Jack's lodge.  What a fun place!  I had never been there before.  Her parents have a house right on the river, it was gorgeous.  There is a trail between their house and the lodge.  Joe and I took his parents truck/camper and camped next to my aunt and uncle.  Camping in a camper is the way to do it!  You get spoiled really fast.  That was my first time ever not being in a tent.  How nice to get up and go to the bathroom...without having to brave the elements outside! ;)  Joe's parents kept Liam for the weekend, it was the first time we've ever left him anywhere for two nights.  As expected, he had a blast with them.  So lucky to have grandparents in his life.  I always envied the kids who got to stay with their grandparents and do fun things with them.  I never had that and I really missed out on a lot of good memories.  

The reception is this Saturday so we'll be doing it all again.  Looking forward to it!  

It has been one busy summer though.  I looked at the calendar and we have been gone every single weekend since the middle of June!  No wonder summer is flying by!  It's been so fun but I have to say, I'm looking forward to things slowing down a little (if that's even possible).

Happy Tuesday!

The best day

Yesterday was the best day, we went salmon fishing on Uncle Jack's the boat in the Puget Sound. He invited us to go with him so we headed for Edgewood as soon as Joe got off work at 8pm on Wednesday, as the boat was leaving from Everett at 5 on Thursday morning. It was a long night with a super early morning, I only got two hours of sleep but it was totally worth it!

We caught four salmon and lost three. Joe and I aren't very good fisher people, we need more practice. It was so exciting to reel one in though! I used to love fishing with John when I was growing up, yesterday made me remember why.

Auntie Susie and Dylan babysat Liam and he had a blast.

Jack bbq'd salmon for dinner and it was delicious. I didn't used to like salmon but realize know I've been missing out. Yum!

Little driver

Liam is obsessed with anything that has a motor, so it's no surprise that he loves driving his truck.  He is a natural!  First day behind the wheel he was going up on the sidewalk (and staying on it) and even attempting burnouts.  Best garage sale buy ever!

We've been busy this week with swimming lessons.  I was apprehensive about it but decided to get brave and go for it.  I just never know how he's going to do with some things.  Fortunately, he is like a little fish in the water and is loving it.  We got home on the first day and he said, "I'm so tired."  I have never heard him say that before, even when he's exhausted.  I've found the new secret to wearing him out!  I have to get in with him since he's not 3 but I've enjoyed it.  The only thing he doesn't like is floating on his back but the teacher said that's the case with most kids his age.

Off to get a cup of coffee before my little man wakes up.  Hope everyone is having a good week!

Loving summer

A day short of two months since I last blogged.  Wow!  Our trip to California seems like it was years ago.  Summer is here and we've been enjoying every minute of it.  Berry picking, swimming, staying up way later than normal (Liam, that is), vacationing.....I never want it to end.

Our latest vacation took us to Orcas Island for the week.  Joanna described the San Juans the best when she said they are "magical."  We went with Joe's side of the family, there were 13 adults and three kids. Dylan took his friend Maya and Liam absolutely adored her.  The highlight of the trip for Liam was driving Uncle Jack's boat and throwing rocks into the water or the "pond" as he called it.  He also enjoyed going on a canoe ride and also did a hike with us, running most of the trail.  And also Maya.  He told my parents she is his girlfriend. :)

We were off the grid for the most part.  No TV, minimal cell service and painfully slow Internet.  It was wonderful.  Total relaxation.  My favorite parts about the trip were boating, discovering a new love for kayaking, the hikes and our many, many games of Farkle.  Oh, and the food.  We all took turns making meals, dinner time was one of the highlights.  Everyone eating together, sitting by the fire.  I want to go back!  I also loved the mornings.  I would get up before Liam and Joe and go for a walk on the beach.  So peaceful and gorgeous.  Then I'd go back to the house and Gil and Uncle Lennie would be up so we'd sit on the porch, have coffee and visit before everyone else got up.  Oh, and I can't forget the deer.  Every night five or six deer would come right up to the house and hang out. We even got to feed them pears out of the tree.  It was amazing.

On the way home we caught the early ferry back to Anacortes then met Uncle Jack and the three of us (me, Joe and Liam) rode in the boat with him back to the marina in Everett.  That was another highlight.  I love being on the water!

Lots of great memories were made this trip, I am so lucky that Joe has such a fun and loving family.  Everyone is so good to Liam and he loves everyone so much.  He is going to have the greatest memories someday. 

When it was time to say goodbye to everyone, my heart literally hurt.  I wanted to cry just like Liam.  It's hard to go from being surrounded by people 24/7 to just Liam and I (Joe has been working 12 hour days). 

Time to start planning next years trip.  Lake Coeur d'Alene.  Can't wait!