The Pelham Family!

Just another week...

2012-02-13T14:07:00.006-06:00

That smile just melts our hearts!

Jack is always trying on new "hats"!

Our little drummer boy...he loves playing the drums especially if someone sings along.Just out for a ride on the dump truck with his hat on...

Father-daughter time.

This is breakfast at our house. Zack takes Jack down for breakfast while I finish getting ready. If Fern is up too Zack will take her down as well. Jack picks out his cereal every morning and has to have the cereal box right by him as he eats.

Fernie is helping daddy work!

In Sunday School this week Jack made a sheep. I told him to "hold it up" so I could take a picture. He took "hold it up" literally!!! I am shocked he didn't eat it in SS...

He really gets into his drumming!

Our Jack seems to have no fear when it comes to jumping or climbing! His new thing is to jump off of the ball bucket into the beanbag...

I'd give him a 10 for execution and landing!

A future explorer?!?

Fernie does not like to nap alone!! Finally today I gave up and just let her play with us in the playroom...that lasted about 5 minutes.

So smiley...I know this looks exactly like another picture I posted but I promise it is a new one from this week!

We gave Jack pudding for the first time...I think he liked it :)

Who better to watch Elmo with than Elmo!

Fernie looks like she is ready for a boxing match!

Jack likes using the boppy.

Fernie LOVES her bath and her pjs!

"Another picture?"

We took Jack to a basketball game Saturday night. The last time we took him to a game we spent more time in the hallway running around than in the gym. This time he enjoyed the entire game. He LOVED the popcorn!

Jack likes to dribble the ball on the hardwood floor before he takes a shot!

Enjoying the fruits of his labor!

A whole LOT of pictures!

2012-02-06T13:44:00.022-06:00

Fernie is getting SO big...she had her 2 month check-up last Friday! She is a strong and healthy little girl. I compared her stats to Jack's at 2 months...she is shorter and has a smaller head but weighs more!!! (must be all that hair!)

One of Jack's favorite snacks is popcorn.

Fern loves her rattle.

I absolutely LOVE this picture of Zack and the kids! Notice how Fern is fast asleep while Jack is building legos on her! She likes being right in the middle of the action.

Because our family room is very sunny...

Such big eyes...still blue.

Jack is sitting in his "nest".

Special reading time with daddy.

We took the kids to the zoo this weekend...the monkey house still stinks ;)

I can't believe I'm posting this picture! But I wanted to show how sweet Jack is to his little sister. She was crying (she was mad!) while I was making dinner one night and I turned around to see Jack put his baseball by her head. I think he thought she needed a toy! Don't worry I immediately picked her up after I took the picture ;)

GiGi just loves babies and they love her!

This is the BEST picture I could get of the three of them...

GiGi has her hands full. Jack loves giving her lotion and Fernie loves being held by her. It's funny my Grandma always tells me if I need to run some errands to leave the kids with her! She's so sweet.

We have been blessed with more warm weather and of course we can't pass it up.

What a sweet face. (Nice senior picture pose, huh?)

I'm so bummed this picture is blurry...Fernie is a smiler!

Jack received this cute outfit in the mail...thanks Nana and Grandpa.

All smiles!

One day when I had to leave for a meeting I told Jack I would bring him a surprise for after his nap...here he is enjoying his surprise - a heart-shaped york peppermint patty!

Jack thought he would rake the last bit of snow we had.

Enjoying the view from the top of the slide.

Being silly!

Our Fern pie.

Love those toes!

So sleepy...

Jack is "playing" soccer! (We are on our way to Fern's 2mo. appointment, that's why he is half dressed!)

In addition to being a smiler, Fernie is a talker and she loves holding her rattle. (if you listen very carefully at the end you can hear Jack say "Nana" in the background...obviously he was listening)

Jack and Zack have so much fun together...here is just a glimpse of their activities...

This and That...

2012-01-30T14:41:00.009-06:00

Our sweet little Fernie...we just love those eyes!

I'm sure Fernie is thinking "where are we going next??" Poor little girl has to go with mommy to all her meetings!

I went to check on Jack after feeding Fernie and this is how I found him...what a goof!

Then he decided to sit in the box.

I guess Jack needs mat time too...

Nana and Papa took Jack on a date before they went out of town for a while. I think the idea was to take Jack out alone but I think they felt bad for me and asked me to go with!!! Jack LOVED his yogurt "pize"!

Check out my cheeks...

I look Jack to get his hair trimmed on Friday...he sat this still the entire time. I love how he placed his hands on the arm rest.

My dad and Zack were working on something upstairs and Jack went up to "help" (as much as a 2 year old can help!) When I went up to lend a hand the first thing I saw was Jack...and he was helping all right...tape measure, hat and boots!

Rockin' the tutu!

Jack is very much into puzzles right now. He received a package in the mail on Friday and guess what was inside...A PUZZLE!!! Thanks Glenda and Gus.

Daddy and daughter time.

"I LOVE my daddy!"

Bedtime...all ready to sleep in my sleepbag!

Jack wanted to eat his snack in his "home"!

First of all, we DO NOT encourage Jack to work out!! Sometimes when we play in the basement he turns on the TV and plays on the workout equipment! He was actually gliding back and forth as I was taking this picture.

One cool dude!

2012-01-23T14:00:00.004-06:00

Our cool dude!

And of course our Sweet Princess! Poor girl has to wear some of Jack's sleepers because her mom and dad don't have the patience in the middle of the night for snaps! Zippers ALL THE WAY!
In addition to helping mommy and daddy, Jack loves to do things himself. He has watched us peel enough cuties he had NO problem taking care of this cutie! (I appreciate his neat pile of peelings!)

Fernanda holds her head up very well. I weighed her the other night and she checks in at 9lbs 8oz. Check out those neck rolls...

Big eyes...still blue.

Random picture, I know. I just had to include it because it's funny how someone left a cup out and Jack thought it was a perfect place for his basketball!

Taking a break for a snack. I guess Jack thought the basket would be more comfortable than the rocking chair...

My three favorite people! I love how Zack tried to keep his tie clean!

Nana joined us for story time at the library this week. I think she had a GREAT time. I know Jack enjoyed the extra attention.

A blurry smile.

The mowhawk is calming down a bit but there are still a few hairs that have a mind of their own.

Just chilling while everyone else eats breakfast.

I love Jack's silly moments.

Jack loves "pizes" (a.k.a. surprises) so I thought it would be fun for us to make Zack a "pize" for when he came home (he went out of town for a night).

He just couldn't help himself... (can you blame him?!?)

He likes it!!! I don't think there is a sweet he wouldn't like!

"Hi Nana!"

Cheese!

I absolutely LOVE this outfit (Thanks Rose) And thankfully after she outgrows it she can wear the other one someone gave her in a bigger size (Thanks Rosie)!!!

Pictures and more pictures!

2012-01-16T13:10:00.007-06:00

Jack is enjoying our last day of nice weather :( He is telling me something but I can't remember what it is!

Since there is no snow to shovel, Jack has to be creative!
Ever since we started our house project this summer my dad asks Jack if he can paint his nose. My dad paints his own nose and asks Jack if he could do the same to him. Jack always responds "No!" Well Jack finally said "Yes!" Jack didn't want me to wash it off that night and I had to promise that papa would be back the next day to paint it again!!

Jack LOVES to sit IN things and he likes to pretend he is taking a "map" (a.k.a. nap)...

Taking another "map"...

Fernanda enjoys her tummy time. It's not very long but at least she tolerates it, Jack HATED it.

I bet you don't have cool boots like these?!?!

Just chilling IN a box!

Who knew foam packing could be so much fun?!?

Jack thought it would be fun to wear papa's knee pads.

SMILE! Thanks for my jeggings aunt Brit :)

Playing some basketball with Elmo. (Notice Elmo has his own basketball hoop)

Mat time!

This picture is very blurry but I had to share it because Jack likes wearing his "pak-pak" (a.k.a backpack) and going shopping!

LOVE this expression!

Jack FINALLY opened his Christmas from Nana and Papa. We've been waiting to open it so we could use it...well we STILL don't have any snow and not sure when we will get any so...

WOW!!!

Since Jack can't use it outside, he figured Elmo, Cookie Monster and Ernie should at least get a ride!

Fernanda is VERY alert when she is awake. She is smiling more and more.

Fernanda has such a sweet personality. She is a GREAT baby.

Above Average...

2012-01-09T13:27:00.003-06:00

temperatures that is! It's been unseasonably warm here and Jack and I are taking full advantage of it. We go outside every afternoon. Jack always finds something new to play with. In these particular pictures Jack is helping me sweep up the pine needles from the Christmas tree.

Enjoying every minute outside!
Some of Jack's "outdoor" toys are getting a little small for him...but they are still fun!

In addition to Jack's obsession with balls, he loves wearing "helmets"!! Guess it makes sense, football players wear helmets. When you ask him to put his helmet on he gets the party hat (the one I have on). Since I was wearing the "helmet" he used the bucket!

Jack has come to accept that Fernanda is here to stay! He now insists she should play with him. When we were outside the other day he wanted her to go down the slide with him. When he goes in the playroom he thinks Fernanda should come as well. Here he is showing Fernanda how to fly a plane...

As you all know Jack LOVES bath time. He also enjoys "helping" give Fern a bath.

Getting so big! She may have blue eyes...

Couldn't be happier...playing basketball in his diaper!

Jack went to Sunday school for the FIRST time this Sunday. He did great...they said he was very quiet but played nicely and did the craft. This proud mother has this piece of art hanging on the fridge.

Fernanda has a very sweet personality. She is very low maintenance compared to Jack at this age. She has been smiling a bit more every day. Not sure what we are going to do with her mohawk?!?

However when she is hungry or needs to be changed she quickly lets us know...it's hard being 5 weeks old!

We're back...sort of...

2012-01-05T14:23:00.003-06:00

Well we are back, sort of...the computer and camera are still not getting along but I downloaded some pictures from my phone. So here are a few shots!

Jack was very helpful in opening ALL of Fernanda's gifts!!!

Fernanda loved all her presents.
All dressed up for Christmas Eve!

A little mom/daughter photo shoot!

Fernanda is getting bigger everyday. I weighed her yesterday and she weighed in at 8lbs., 2oz. The last few days she has had her days/nights mixed up...this too shall pass! We are all still adjusting to a family of four. Jack is very helpful with Fernanda but he also struggles with sharing mama and daddy. When Fernanda is sleeping we do our best to give Jack 100% of our attention.

Happy New Year!

Error, Error, Error...

2011-12-27T20:44:00.002-06:00

SO my new camera is NOT playing nice with my computer. I have a TON of new pictures to share but the new camera is causing technical problems with my computer. We are doing our best to get it figured out.

In other news, we had an interesting Christmas break...the 24th started out with Jack vomiting. So we had a quite Christmas eve with the adults while Jack slept. Around noon on the 25th Zack became ill and you can imagine who got sick that night!! Thankfully Fernanda has stayed healthy.

We are now all on the mend and ready to get back to our normal routine. I am SO thankful for parents who helped out with kids while Zack and I slept and brought us chicken noddle soup.

Hopefully pictures to come...

One week...without a camera!

2011-12-12T14:15:00.005-06:00

I am technically challenged today and can't figure out why the picture uploaded sideways, so sorry about that! I forgot to mention in the previous blog update that we are without a camera! OF ALL TIMES, I know! We finally bought one this weekend but not many pictures from last week.

Here is our little sleeping beauty!

Our NEW view into the playroom - LOVE it!

So Sunday morning we got up bright and early to make it to Sunday school on time. While driving to church I received a text from the SS teacher about dinner that night, I thought it was odd to get a text from her 5 minutes before SS was to start...I texted her back and asked if there was SS...NOPE, it was the children's SS program at the 10:15 service!!! Guess we missed that announcement last week Sunday :) So instead of going home we stopped at McD's to play in the playland. Jack had a great time while Zack and I sat in a booth, held hands, talked and sipped our coffee/hot chocolate...HA, who am I kidding?!?!?!?!

Jack really liked this jumping thing.
Jack was so brave climbing up so high...

And the best picture of the weekend...Zack playing with Jack in playland!!! The things you do for your children :)

More pictures to come next week of our little beauty!

Fernanda Rose

2011-12-08T13:45:00.007-06:00

Fernanda Rose arrived Sunday evening at 8:37pm. We arrived at the hospital at 7pm and she made her grand appearance in less than two hours. She is perfect in every way...although she does NOT look happy in this picture!

We thank God every day for two healthy precious children.

One VERY proud daddy!

I am so thankful for Zack and his AMAZING support during Fernanda's birth. I couldn't have asked for a better coach.

Fernie's first guests...a very proud Papa and Nana.

Just a few hours old.

Fernie's first manicure! She was born with super long nails.

All nice and warm!

Jack came to visit the next morning. He was so excited to see the baby! Fernanda was kind enough to give Jack a gift when he arrived at the hospital - a bat and ball. Jack is wearing his "big brother" shirt but you can't see it.

Kisses from Jack!

THE shirt. Jack had a good time at the hospital...so much to explore!

The second night I stayed at the hospital with Fernanda and Zack stayed home with Jack. We tried to keep things as normal as possible for Jack. The next morning Zack and Jack came to pick me up. I was just finishing breakfast and Jack thought I needed help!

Special time with daddy!

"Mom, stop with the pictures! I'm exhausted."

BIG eyes!

We are enjoying/adjusting to life as a family of 4! Jack is doing very well. He has his moments of frustration but we are doing our best to work through them. I do my best to ask Jack to help with the baby anytime I can. Jack is so proud of himself when he helps Mommy or Daddy!

Crutches for Zack!

2011-11-21T13:38:00.011-06:00

Well we had an interesting week! On Thursday Zack had a little "incident" taking out the trash and ended up with crutches! He was smashing some boxes that didn't fit in the trash can and pounded his heel full force in the cement. He called me from work saying he probably hurt his foot and asked if I would make an appointment for him to see a doctor (which I did get for 8:00 the NEXT morning). At noon I met him at a restaurant for a meeting and watched him "hop" from the car to the door...it was then I realized we needed to see a doctor immediately after the meeting. So here he is leaving the TODAY clinic. I think we both felt much better knowing it was not broken! Since then there has been lots of ice, elevation and Advil.

Jack likes playing with dad's crutches.
Our weekend was pretty quiet with Zack on crutches and me being 37 weeks pregnant! I thought for sure I would go into labor on Thursday :)
Zack is doing much better. Here he is leaving for work today...he looks much happier and is in less pain.

Happy Thanksgiving Everyone!!

"Y"

2011-11-14T13:34:00.022-06:00

Jack is working on his vocabulary...the NUK probably doesn't help things along! (Not something we are going to take away...less than 4 weeks before the baby arrives!)

Zack and I can probably make more sense of his "words" than anyone else! For the longest time Jack kept saying "Poppie" (strong emphasis on POP), we had NO idea what that meant. FINALLY days later...it means puppy! He likes to add "Y" to the end of lots of words..."nopey", "yeppy", nakky", "Jacky", "hoppy"...

Jack can always slow down for a "nakky" ("snacky").If he could carry 10 balls at once, he would!!!
Making sure Elmo reads the sports section!

Taking Papa's car out for a spin.

This weekend we went shopping for a chair for the nursery...Jack had to try out a few for himself!

Wearing daddy's hat and listening to Elmo.

Jack's FAVORITE thing to do: Reading with Daddy!

Baby update: We are down to 4 weeks until our little baby girl arrives! This week I will start my weekly appointments. We are praying for a safe and healthy delivery. We are doing our best to prepare Jack for this little girl. Baby girl received two dolls at the shower last weekend and Jack has been taking care of them...feeding them and sharing his NUK!

We have been SOOO blessed by warm(er) weather this fall. We are taking advantage of every minute.

We took Jack to the zoo this weekend - I know 3 weekends in a row! He loves seeing the animals...He tried feeding the goats this time...we will get better with practice!

Jack loves spinning around and then trying to walk! It's pretty funny to see...

Jack's second FAVORITE thing to do: Playing catch with daddy!

Jack is working on his drop-kick! (sorry for the sun!)

Nana comes to visit!

2011-11-07T15:33:00.033-06:00

Jack had a VERY exciting weekend!

Nana from Michigan came to visit.

Before she arrived Zack and Jack raked up a few leaves!

Of course you can't rake leaves and not play a little...

We kept Nana very busy while she was here. After breakfast Jack wanted to color with Nana.
Nana brought Jack a sucker! He LOVED it.

We took Nana to a park...

Driving to "papa's"

Cleaning up after Nana and Daddy!

...And we HAD to take Nana to the zoo!

Jack is trying to get as close as he can to the ducks!

Checking out the prairie dogs with Nana.

Watching the otters.

Shootin' hoops with Nana. Jack discovered if he stood on his chair he would be closer to the hoop...

Aside from seeing Jack (and us of course) Nana came for baby girl's shower. Baby girl and I were treated to a delightful afternoon of delicious food, good conversation and very generous gifts. (and YES the food was as good as it looks!!!)

I am so glad my Mother and Mother-in-law were able to make it!

This girl will be well dressed!

This shower was such a treat! Thank you dear friends :)

Baby update: We FINALLY ordered the crib...a little late I know but we figured she would be in our room for a while anyway! I can't believe we are down to 4 weeks - CRAZY! Jack has affectionately named the baby "pie"...not sure where that comes from. Every night when I rock Jack to sleep he insists on seeing my tummy and patting the baby. He is going to make a GREAT big brother.

Roar!!!

2011-10-31T20:36:00.010-05:00

Jack dressed up as a little lion this evening! He had a GREAT time. Jack wasn't so sure about putting on the costume but once it was on he was ready to go! Throughout the day we practiced saying "trick-or-treat"...it came out more like "tick-tick"! But he was very good about saying "Thank You". We couldn't have asked for better weather, it was lovely out!

"Cheese...now let's go!"
Putting on his shoes for the long walk around the block.

Couldn't resist taking this picture.

"Do I really get to eat all of this?!?"

(As I sit here and write, Zack and I are sampling the goods!)

After we got home, we told Jack he could have ONE treat...what does he pick?? The sucker! Well he got a few licks and then we promised him he could finish it in the morning.

Jack had his 2-year appointment last week. We are so thankful he is healthy and growing big and strong. Not a shocker he is in the 74 percentile for height!

Zack now has competition for the sports section...Zack usually eats breakfast before Jack and I and leaves the newspaper on the kitchen table. Jack now asks for the "balls"...he wants to look at the sports section!!

[Pointing out the football...]

Just testing out the cars after his appointment.

I couldn't find Jack's Tigers hat one afternoon so we had to borrow Zack's Pistons hat...a little big but we made it work.

Our silly toddler!

Jack and I have been enjoying our afternoons outside. He LOVES playing with bubbles. I usually blow the bubbles and he catches them or pops them with his bubble wand. In this particular video he tries to blow the bubbles!

More time at the zoo with the goats!

It's that time of year...

2011-10-24T13:22:00.012-05:00

Papa's Pumpkin Patch!!

Jack had a blast. They had a "cornbox".

Trying to decide which pumpkin to take home...

THE family picture!

Jack LOVED the slides. (video below)Last year's picture...

THIS YEAR!!!

About to take a ride on the train...

As we were waiting for the train to leave we overheard someone mention a fire. Zack went to check it out and sure enough!!! PRAISE THE LORD we were not playing in that section at the time...we had just been over there.

Just a few pictures from the past week. Jack's always up to something...

It's always nice to be surrounded by balloons when you are watching Sesame Street.

Football time with daddy.

At our trip to the zoo this week Jack's favorite animal was the prairie dogs...(video below)

Giving Papa's basketball hoop some much needed attention.

Our little climber!

LOVE that face!

"Peez can I climb this mama?"

Jack insisted he needed the umbrella...it wasn't even raining out!

Baby update: Baby girl is doing really well. I have another appointment tomorrow. Hard to believe we are less than 2 months away from meeting our precious little girl. I still feel good..although I move a little slower ;) A few weeks ago baby and I made some jam to last us through the winter!

Jack enjoying the slides at the pumpkin patch.

Jack was so excited about the prairie dogs...not sure what got into him!

For some reason Jack enjoys walking backwards. I guess he thought he would try it while walking on the bridge!!

Jack turns 2...Again!

2011-10-17T13:38:00.014-05:00

Jack had a week of celebrations! Since my parents were out of town last weekend they threw him a little dinner party Monday night. Fortunately Jack put the bowl on his head before it was filled with noodles!

My mom made Jack a cute little birthday cupcake with candy corn. His favorite part, the candy corn and frosting!
Jack has definitely caught on to opening presents...
Someone very special sent Jack a birthday package. Can't go wrong with a HUGE Elmo book and 4 little Elmo books! THANK YOU!

Jack finally had his birthday party this weekend! Jack absolutely loves Cookie Monster.

Notice the little cookie crumbs in his mouth...that was the first thing Jack ate when he got his piece of cake!

Couldn't just invite Cookie Monster to the party.

Jack thoroughly enjoyed the cake and ice cream. Unfortunately both is parents have a sweet tooth!

Opening gifts kept Jack (and daddy) entertained for a while!

I love how Jack is looking at my dad...

...and then Jack started acting silly!

Even GG got involved in the balloon fun with Jack.

Happy birthday to you!

Mmmm! In the video you will hear Zack offer my aunt a piece of cake and Jack thinks he should get another piece too...

So for some reason Jack likes to add "y" to the end of words. His "word" right now is "nopey"! Unfortunately he does not understand the importance of receiving clothes as a gift. Apparently Jack didn't like a box of clothes for a birthday gift...

Jack turns 2!!

2011-10-10T14:13:00.014-05:00

Our sweet Jack Oliver turned 2 this weekend!

Our little baby has become our little boy. Jack enjoyed the beautiful weather this week. It's good I had some leftover chalk from the summer.

Jack loves hanging out with daddy!

My dad kindly lowered his basketball hoop for Jack.

Jack LOVES playing basketball! (and takes it very seriously)

Every good basketball player needs a break.

A basketball hoop can serve several purposes...

Reading time with daddy NEVER gets old.

SO HAPPY!!!

"Are you sure this is safe?"

Jack loves going down the slide with Zack...look at that face! (this slide was NOT made for a person of Zack's size)

Jack loves the "choo-choo".

We are planning a little family birthday party for Jack next weekend but HAD to celebrate yesterday too!!! Jack had a birthday muffin for breakfast...

Guess he didn't understand "blow out the candles". He wanted to lick the caramel!

"Mmmm!"

Big surprise, Jack got a basketball hoop for this birthday!

We ended the day at a fun restaurant and Jack got a free birthday dessert! Fried "alien ears" dipped in chocolate...
More videos for your enjoyment.

A few tunes from Jack...

A cute video of Jack coming downstairs for breakfast on his birthday!

Daily activities...

2011-10-03T14:10:00.008-05:00

Just a few pictures of Jack and his daily activities!

Jack loves to knock on Papa and Nana's door...he looks in the window to make sure someone is coming...

A few weeks back we went to a picnic at someone's home, they just happen to have horses! Jack was so excited to see the horses but once we got up close he wasn't so sure...
"Too close daddy!"

At some point throughout the day Jack watches Sesame Street. On this particular day he did NOT want to get dressed...

Love the hair.

I thought this picture was so cute (as any mother would!) notice how Jack put his sandwich in the cup holder!

A slide is always more fun when you hold daddy's hand.

Jack is still not a fan of the swings but he doesn't mind swinging like this!

Baby update: We are 30 weeks along! It's hard to believe that within 10 weeks we will get to meet our little girl. We still have lots of work to do in the nursery but things are moving along.

While Jack and I were away my dad and Zack painted the nursery...the pictures don't really do it justice! Big surprise on the color, right?!?! LOVE IT.

Cousin Love

2011-09-26T13:23:00.004-05:00

While we were in MI a few weeks back Naomi and Jack had their pictures taken! As you know there is always one kid who does not want to participate...and that would be OURS! I'm blaming it on the heat because he loves Naomi :) I don't remember how many pictures she took of the two of them but here are four good ones where Jack is cooperating...sort of.

Jack received a very special gift this week. His very own desk! He loves sitting in it and eating his snack. THANK YOU Papa!

This weekend we took Jack to another parade. We figured he liked the first parade so much why not try another one. Jack made the most of our "waiting time" before the parade started. I'm sure the people watching the security cameras were very entertained!

Just taking a break. Check out his new shoes...the kid wears a size 8 1/2!

Getting ready for all the action. The weather was BEAUTIFUL.

What would a parade be without a sucker?? Again Jack enjoyed every lick! The bottom right-hand picture is my favorite...orange drool!

My new "blog" goal is to take more family pictures...Hey at least we tried!

"I had better hang on very tightly to this candy in case I don't see it again!"

...and he did, ALL the way to the van!

Kitchen Update: WE ARE DONE!

Not sure why the lighting is so dark but I wanted to show the green sink base and window trim.

Love the backsplash!

So right behind the kitchen area is a bathroom. Since we pulled out the floors in the bathroom we figured a new toilet, sink and paint would do the trick!

BEFORE:

AFTER:

Jack LOVES horses...probably an understatement. He gets very excited when he sees one or hears someone mention one. Here is a quick demonstration of Jack's enthusiasm for horses. After he makes the sound you can stop the video because he just stares into space and Zack tells me the parade route!

Lastly, Jack making his motorcycle sound and being silly!

Jack receives his wings!

2011-09-20T12:57:00.003-05:00

In Jack's short little life he has flown many times but he finally received his first pair of Delta wings this weekend!! He wasn't so sure what to do with them but he still liked them. My mom, Jack and I took a trip down south to celebrate a very special cousin birthday! We all had a great time and Jack was an excellent traveler. I couldn't have asked for better traveling companion...although I could have done without his diaper leaking while he was sitting on my lap! Oh the joys of motherhood, right?!?

While we were away Jack did lots of three-wheeling!

He also spent lots of time on the slide...sometimes with a toy!
Jack made sure his uncles pinecones were all picked up and put in the cooler.

One morning we took the kids to the zoo. To my surprise, Jack was very uncertain right away. He wasn't sure what to think of the animals. Although after we found the first park he warmed up VERY quickly!

I would title this picture: Boys Will Be Boys! As I said before Jack wasn't as impressed as I thought he would be. His cousin on the other hand loved every animal we saw. They both really enjoyed looking at the empty stage though!

I still think he is an animal lover at heart.

"Look at those giraffes Nana!"

This was the "best" picture we got of the two of us...

Jack loved every second at the park.

For the birthday party we went to a place filled with inflatables and lots of balls! Of course Jack played with the balls the WHOLE time. He was in HEAVEN!

We all went out to eat one night and Jack found the arcade games right away! (Hey it helps pass the time when you are waiting for your food.) It's good he doesn't realize it costs money to actually play on the machines!

We all had a great time and Jack did so well. Of course we had a few meltdowns but for the most part he did GREAT! I thought this pictures was so cute...we had just arrived at our first gate on the way home and I gave Jack a fruit bar and milk. He sat down on the floor all by himself!

Thanks Auntie, Uncle, and cousins for a wonderful time!

Kitchen update: Drum roll please...we have countertops. They were installed yesterday. Today they are working on the backsplash and on Thursday we will have plumbing on the main floor!!!

Baby update: Our sweet baby girl is doing great. She is one busy baby...I am glad she sleeps while I sleep and does most of her aerobics during the day! While Jack and I were away Zack and my dad painted the nursery. It looks amazing. I will post pictures soon. We need to start picking out bedding and nursery furniture...

1100+ Miles...

2011-09-12T12:56:00.011-05:00

This past Labor Day weekend we drove to MI for a short visit and of course, to participate in the Peach Festival activities! We left at 3:00am thinking Jack would sleep at least until 6:00am or so...NOPE he stayed awake until 1:00PM! We stopped about every 3 hours so Jack could get out and run. We found lots of parks along the way.

On our way to Nana and Gpa's we stopped to see Bud and JoAnn in Wakefield. Jack very much enjoyed their dog Pepper and his time outdoors with Aunt JoAnn.

What a brave woman...pulling Jack in the wagon while managing Pepper on his leash.
Jack thought this woodpile was pretty neat! He even "moved" some wood for them...

To make the trip "easier" for mom and dad we rented some Barney and Sesame Street DVDs. We had a little routine: play for about an hour, watch a video, eat a snack and play for another hour. And then start all over!

Zack and Gpa took Jack on some errands and these are the pictures I received on my phone while they were gone! I can only imagine...

One night we all went for yummy custard! Well I came a little late because "someone" lost my credit card! To make a very long story short, after dinner Jack and I went to the van because it was too hot for us to sit outside. While in the van he was playing with my wallet. After Zack came back to the van and we started driving to the custard place I starting putting my wallet back together. I realized my CC was not there and I knew I saw Jack playing with it. After searching for what seemed like a loooong time and finally giving up, I found the CC in the DVD player!!!!

We spent Saturday afternoon at Aunt Sarah's.

Jack found Adam's Tiger Stadium chairs!

Taking a break by the water.

This is a gesture we see a lot..."one more time"! We are trying to teach Jack the difference between "one more time" and "last time"!

The kid loves to jump!

Fun times in the front yard playing catch. (check out that form!)

"Don't forget me!"

Nana took Jack to the park and they both had a great time.

Jack loved the climbing wall...unfortunately Nana nor I could hang on to him all the way to the top :(

We took Jack to the children's parade...he wasn't so sure right away...

Give the boy a sucker and he is one happy little guy. He ate the WHOLE thing.

After the parade all the relatives came over. Jack enjoyed playing with Owen's toys.

Jack is already teaching Naomi tricks!

I spent a little quality time with Naomi...she is such a doll!

We attempted a "cousin" picture...oh well, maybe next time!

We had not been in the car 5 minutes after leaving MI and Jack was out like a light.

While we were gone our house started looking more like a house...

Our window was finished!

Before we left they had taken the sliding glass door out to install french doors...while the door was out we started thinking the room might look better with no doors - TADA!

We have floors and hardware!!!

Still waiting for those countertops...they are scheduled to be installed on the 19th!! Can't wait :) Jack and I are heading South in two days to celebrate a very special birthday this weekend! I'm sure I will have lots of pictures.

The weekend!

2011-08-29T14:11:00.009-05:00

I think this picture is so cute - good action shot. Jack likes kicking the ball around.

Jack is always finding new things to do on the swing set...
...Couldn't just climb up the ladder in the back!

Always a good time on the spiral slide!

The tunnel slide is probably Jack's favorite. We tried the swings again but he just isn't interested. I think he would rather run around - fine with us!

It's pretty special if Jack WANTS to hold your hand.

A dear friend came to town and we ate at a nice restaurant (I called ahead to see if they even had highchairs, I've never seen young kids there before). Jack did very well! They can even make grilled cheese look fancy ;)

Buddies!

We walk over to GG's at least once a week. Once we arrive Jack has a routine. Right away he insists on eating a banana. Then he empties all the lotion bottles out of the basket and takes each one to GG. Finally he plays on with/on the walker. Notice the whistle around his neck, he LOVES to wear his whistle! He can't figure out how it works so he just puts it in his mouth and makes a noise!!

My FAVORITE picture from the weekend!

Kitchen update: Things are coming along just fine. Most of the appliances are in.

As part of the "kitchen remodel" the laundry room/mud room somehow got included! So here is the BEFORE of the laundry room:

and AFTER (still a work in progress):

There were really large cabinets back there but we needed a little different set up. Now we have a little bench and a little workspace to put folded clothes! (Both are actually being tiled as I write.)

Kitchen with some appliance!

Just a few fun videos of our little monkey!

Such a big (independent) boy!

2011-08-22T14:21:00.005-05:00

As I said before, Jack is becoming more independent every day! He now wants to brush his own teeth. Needless to say, we have to brush them first and then he gets his turn. The funny thing about this picture is that he climbed onto the counter all by himself while I was carrying a load of laundry upstairs. I'm pretty sure he had already brushed his teeth about an hour before with Zack. I guess anytime is a good time for Jack to brush his teeth!

We've noticed that Jack plays for longer periods of time with his toys. He tried stacking these balls for quite a while. And YES he put the animals in/on the ark...

Reading is still very important to Jack. He and I read in his tent every morning. He lays on his pillow while I read!
Trying to get the very last drop!

Right now we are in the middle of a remodeling project. So we eat all our meals in the basement. Jack likes to help carry things downstairs. He is becoming such a big helper. I will be really glad when the fridge gets moved downstairs!

Back to the comment on independence...Jack REALLY wanted to wear this outfit on Saturday! He has started picking out this clothes in the morning. (I really think he only liked the shorts because of the sharks!)

I wonder if they are planning our next trip?!?!

Jack built this tower all by himself...unfortunately I didn't snap the picture quick enough!

Jack enjoys picking tomatoes and beans in the garden. I love his facial expression here!

Baby update: We are at 24 weeks! That was a very fast 24 weeks. Baby girl is very active, I don't remember Jack moving around so much. Usually Jack moved around after meals and early in the morning. Baby girl moves all day long. With Jack I craved salad, skittles/starbursts, caramel rolls and fruit. With baby girl I have craved lots of cheetos!!!

House update: As I said earlier when we purchased the home, we knew we wanted to remodel the kitchen. The first picture is the kitchen view from the family room and the second picture is the kitchen behind the wall.

After a few days of demolition!

A picture after this weekend.

More remodeling pictures to come!

Rub-a-dub-dub

2011-08-15T15:24:00.007-05:00

Our little man still loves his baths...he took a break from splashing like a mad man but he is back at it! He loves every minute of bath time.

Zack is still the designated bath-giver. I am usually cleaning up the kitchen so I listen though the monitor. Sometimes I go upstairs just to see what sort of silliness is going on!
I HAD to share this picture because it shows one of Jack's favorite bath time activities - washing his feet. You will notice in this picture he already has the other foot in position for Zack to wash it!

We were invited to another picnic at the amusement park so Jack enjoyed another ride on the carousel!

This time I rode in the little bug with Jack!

This may not sound like a big deal but I was STUNNED that I had two pictures with Jack in a week. I am NEVER in the pictures...I was just saying to Zack, "I don't have any pictures with Jack because I'm always behind the camera!"

If you can't tell by now, we love going to the zoo! Jack gets so excited when we pull into the zoo parking lot he starts making all his animal sounds!

Jack wasn't so sure of the llama right away so he stayed close to Zack!

Best buddies!

We took a quick trip to Lowes this weekend and we tried out the car-carts - BIG HIT with Jack!

Cute little zoo video - Enjoy :)

The Big 10!!!

2011-08-08T14:43:00.005-05:00

This past week Zack and I celebrated our 10 year anniversary! Whew, that flew by! When I think back on the past 10 years I am so thankful I married my best friend. There is no one else in this world that I would rather spend my life with. Zack is a wonderful husband and father. I can only imagine what he will be like with his little girl!

Zack made Jack and I a wonderful breakfast on Thursday - waffles!! Not just any waffles...waffles with peanut butter and chocolate chips - Mmmm! Jack and I thoroughly enjoyed every bite. At noon he brought me flowers - so sweet!
That night we went out for dinner and ice cream while my parents watched Jack. This past weekend I surprised Zack and took him to Medora for the day. We had a great time talking and eating! Probably should have asked someone to take our picture...oh well! The scenery is beautiful though :)

It is tradition to visit the ice cream store while in Medora. I was pleasantly surprised to discover they started selling caramel rolls!!!!!!! Yep, I ate the WHOLE thing...well I gave Zack a few bites.

Thanks honey for a wonderful anniversary!

OK, finally some pictures of the person you really want to see! Jack Oliver loves to climb ON things and IN things...

Our own Mario Andretti!

My dad now has a helper in the garden.

I don't think Jack was too fond of the birds nest...

It's a GIRL!!!

2011-08-01T13:48:00.009-05:00

Jack's picture above says it all!!

We are thrilled and can't wait to meet this little girl.

This past week we got a sneak peak (I know, pictures only parents can love!)

Check out that bicep!!!
We visited a new park this weekend, Jack had a blast! He even let us put him in the swing. He held on to dad's hand for a while...

...But he finally let go and enjoyed his brief swing ride.

He goes down the "big-kid" slide all by himself now.

He is such a monkey!

It's hard to believe he is doing all these things BY HIMSELF! But we are glad he is showing his independence (just as long as it's not in the store!!!).

A weekend with Grandpa!!

2011-07-25T13:08:00.006-05:00

Jack had a great weekend with Grandpa here! Jack kept him busy. Before Grandpa arrived though I took Jack to an indoor play area because it was too hot outside. I snapped this picture before we left...I love Jack's little expression. Now he doesn't mind sitting on the swing but does NOT like to be pushed!

Jack climbed in and out of this boat about 100 times! I was getting sea-sick!
Jack would climb on this caterpillar and rock back and forth thinking it was going to move or do something...no such luck!

"Look dad, a jeep for ME!!"

Once Grandpa arrived Jack was showing him all sorts of things. Of course the most important: BALLS! Grandpa would throw them in the air and Jack would try to catch them.

That's one happy face.

"That's cool Grandpa!"

"Try this one..."

ALWAYS room for reading time with Dad.

Jack even let Grandpa read him a book.

Jack and Grandpa had a one-on-one soccer match.

"See Grandpa, even I can throw the ball up high!"

Of course we had to watch some baseball with Grandpa.

Jack even took Grandpa to the zoo and took him on a train ride. Jack sat all by himself the entire ride.

Every once and a while it would get bumpy and Jack would hold someone's hand...very sweet!

Sadly our fun weekend ended this morning when Jack had to say good-bye to Grandpa. Thanks for coming Grandpa, come again VERY soon!!!

Curious Jack...

2011-07-18T14:04:00.011-05:00

I am really starting to see the little boy in Jack. He is so curious about everything...maybe even a little too curious. This past week he went outside all by himself (without us knowing!) I was on the phone and Zack was in the basement. As I was talking I realized Jack wasn't with me so I yelled to Zack asking if Jack was with him. Then I looked at the front door and noticed it was not locked. I immediately went outside and called Jack's name...he came running out of the garage happy as a clam!!

Jack also loves to put things in his mouth - another way of exploring! A few nights ago he gave me a huge scare. We were picking up all the toys from outside and he wanted to carry the bubbles inside. The next thing I know I turned around and he was choking on the bubbles cap. I'm sure it all took about 10 seconds but it seemed like 10 minutes. He gagging/vomiting and I was doing my best to get the cap out.

Jack definitely keeps us on our toes!!!

What more could a guy need...a snack, a sippy cup, a nuk and a football?!?!

Jack is getting so brave at the park. He loves the big slide (with dad or mom, of course!)!
He even does the little slide by himself! We are still working on the swings...

I took Jack to story time at the library. There were books and stuffed animals all over the steps. Jack managed to hang on to these three during the whole story time!

Just resting in the shade!

I thought Jack might like a pillow in his tent. Sure enough, right after I put the pillow in the tent he laid down.

Buddies!

2011-07-11T14:15:00.014-05:00

These two are buddies! Jack walked Lucy around the block...he held the leash the ENTIRE time!

We were one house away from home and Jack sat down...he was pooped!

He loves Lucy so much.

Just a few examples of how Jack is "resourceful"...he uses whatever he can find to make himself taller!

Enjoying a cool snack on a hot day. He ate the whole thing - loved it!

A very generous person gave Jack a swing set (their son had outgrown it). Before he was able to play on it, Zack cleaned it off. We kept Jack inside so he wouldn't be tempted to go down the slide while Zack was spraying it down!

After a tough "game of soccer", Jack needed a break!!!

I did NOT put Jack in the basket and cover him with legos...he did it HIMSELF!

Just love this pose! (Notice where he put his sippy cup) We went with Zack to the eye doctor this weekend (to help pick out new glasses). I had no idea his appointment would take so long. I decided to let Jack play in the car! He had a blast pushing every button he could reach.

I tried to download some videos from my phone but couldn't get it to work...I'll try again later.

Such a sad face...

2011-07-06T13:56:00.013-05:00

The tradition is that when the grandkids get together we have their pictures taken!! So far our record has been that one kiddo does NOT appreciate having their picture taken. This time we brought "W-Ws or as most people know them - M&Ms! (I have to call them W-Ws because Jack fully understands what M&Ms are!)

Unfortunately there is a story behind this sad face. Since we couldn't get all three car seats in one car, Jack and I drove separately. I left a few minutes early because I wanted to make a quick stop. To make a very long and emotional story short, I LOCKED JACK IN THE CAR!!! Poor little guy, he thought it was a game at first but after a while he started crying and that about broke my heart. I immediately called the police who sent someone out right away. Then I called Zack who was out of town...not much he could do anyway! When the police arrived they were trying to call a locksmith. Can you believe no one answered any of their calls?!?! God was definitely watching out for us, some random man stopped and asked what was going on. As I was sitting in the trunk (I was trying to get though to the backseat via the trunk but the car seat was in the way), I told him what had happened. He told us he used to open doors for a living!!! He ended up crawling in the trunk and pushing the seat down enough to get the door open. PRAISE THE LORD!! I immediately got Jack out and gave the guy a hug...that's when I started crying. That was the last I saw of the guy...I didn't even get his name! I guess I should have given Jack the whole bag of M&Ms after that!!!

The three amigos!

(ALL the kiddos are looking at the bag of M&Ms...the boys also have M&Ms in their mouths!)
I love the way Jack is standing in this picture...he is watching some kids in the corner. Notice his hand in his pocket :)

We ventured out to the 4th of July parade...unfortunately it was so hot we didn't even stay for the parade. We had arrived about an hour and half early to get seats and it warmed up so much during that time we needed to leave. Jack was sweating like crazy and I was really hot! I will admit, I do not enjoy being hot and it makes me unhappy.

During our wait Jack enjoyed the colorful barriers...perfect size for him.

Snack time with dad on the back steps.

Exploring in the backyard!

...Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go...Joshua 1:9

A new home for "Bubba"

2011-06-28T13:58:00.008-05:00

Hello from the new house! I just wanted to post a few "Jack" pictures! For the most part Jack has handled this transition very well. The nights have been a little hard. The last few nights he has been waking up 3-4 times a night. That makes for one tired mama!

This past week Jack decided his name is "Bubba"! It's the craziest thing...I asked him his name the other day and he immediately responded with "Bubba"! Silly kid :)

We took the kids on a picnic the other night at the capitol. Jack wasn't so sure what to think. In fact he sat like this for about a minute and the rest of the time he walked around. He just couldn't understand why we were eating on the ground!

Jack was very intrigued with the storage unit being removed. You will notice he is holding his blanket or "ba-ba" as he calls it. Jack has become VERY attached to his blanket in the last few weeks.
We went to a picnic at the amusement park and Jack had a great time. I think playing basketball was his favorite! Notice one of his biggest fans in the right hand corner!

Thankfully Zack took him on all the rides. Jack looks scared but I think he had fun.

I love this picture because it shows how small the cars really are...what a good daddy!!!

LOVE that smile.

A little Dora time with cousin Jensen.

Only at Papa's house...

The best seat in the house to watch Papa work.

Papa's helpers!

Enjoying the slide.

TRANSITION

2011-06-20T20:26:00.028-05:00

The Pelhams are in T-R-A-N-S-I-T-I-O-N!! I will do my best to make a VERY long story short...
April 28th - We put our home up for sale.
April 30th - We signed a purchase agreement with Family A.
June 8th - We received a call from a flood evacuee (Family B) interested in buying our house. (Zack did his best to explain we already were in a contract with someone else...)
June 9th - We called Family A and asked if they would bow out of the contract so Family B could buy the house...
June 10th - Family A agreed to let Family B purchase the home.
June 11th - We started PACKING!!!

June 13th - We officially moved out of our house at midnight.

June 14th - Family B officially purchased our home.

Present - We are now living with my parents (THANK YOU so much Dad and Mom!) All of our belongings are loaded in a semi-trailer and a small storage unit.

Future (June 23) - We officially move into our new house!

To add a little excitement to all of this, my sister and her family are home visiting for three weeks. To be honest, it's been a blast! My parent's family room has been converted to a toy room that gets picked up once a day. All the fridges and freezers are packed - food for 9 people and the food from our home. Right now there are 12 pairs of shoes in front of the door ranging from kids size 7 to size 15! Two highchairs and an ExerSaucer have become permanent fixtures at the dinner table. Bedtime for all three kiddos is 7:00pm. After all the bedtime routines, the rest of us enjoy a few hours of P&Q!

I hope my next post is from my new office :)

Photo shoot!

2011-06-03T13:13:00.009-05:00

We took Jack out for a little photo shoot...M&Ms can pretty much get him to do anything!!!

We thought it would be fun to announce our new little blessing with pictures of Jack.

That's right, JACK IS GOING TO BE A BIG BROTHER!!!

I am due in early December. We couldn't ask for a better Christmas gift. We are all very excited about this baby. Enough about us, enjoy the photo shoot!

Can you tell he has a M&M in his mouth?!?
"I will take that M&M please"...

"If you won't give me the M&M, I will come get it myself!"

You can't see it very well, but he has blue M&M drool on his face!!!

"These are so good!"

He was done with taking pictures.

The finished product!

"I prayed for this child, and the Lord has granted me what I asked of him. So now I give him to the Lord. For his whole life he will be given over to the Lord."

1 Sam. 1:27-28

This and That...

2011-06-01T13:57:00.003-05:00

Just a few random pictures of our cutie!

Until this point we usually cut the corn off the cob for Jack. During this particular meal we did cut some corn but let him try to eat the corn off the cob...We were impressed and he loved it!

"This is GREAT!"

Jack still enjoys his bath time. He has moved on from kicking and splashing to drinking as much water as he can.

Our little guy is still a huge fan of fruit. Blackberries are a hit right now, but they sure are messy.

Everyone knows the best place to build a tower is from a higher elevation!

Each day Jack and I watch Sesame Street. Some days we watch for 5 minutes other days we watch for 30 minutes. It just depends on Jack's interest! Some days he sits on my lap and other days he sits/stands where he likes!!! A tunnel is a great place to watch Sesame Street...

Jack likes watching for Zack to come home. A snack always helps the time pass quickly!

Our cutie!!!

Likes...

2011-05-16T14:41:00.005-05:00

Pretty quiet week for us so I thought I would post some LIKES (and one dislike) of our little fellow. Don't get me wrong he dislikes more than one thing but I only have one picture of him disliking something!

Jack LIKES stacking things. Sometimes he even LIKES stirring his "ingredients" like mama.

Jack LIKES hats and hoods...on his time, of course! If he finds a hat on the floor he will put it on his head.
He LIKES time at the park. We finally had a nice day yesterday and we spend most of it outside. Jack is a huge fan of the outdoors. He has really taken to the wagon...last fall he kept trying to stand up in the wagon but this summer he sits very well and looks around.

He did NOT LIKE the swing yesterday!

He LIKES watching people, he really LIKED watching these people play catch!

He really LIKES sitting at the kitchen island. He LIKES using a pen rather than crayons...not sure why... I love how his little legs are crossed in the first picture (you have to look pretty hard!) He looks so little sitting on the stool.

My favorite picture from the week!!! As I was getting breakfast ready Jack wanted to go outside and as every little boy knows you need a hat and shoes to go outside...

And that's our Jack!

(Pardon the Christmas pjs, I ended up changing him in the middle of the night and I thought I had a different pair of pjs!)

Jack is growing up!

2011-05-10T14:53:00.014-05:00

I can hardly believe Jack is 19 months old...where did the time go??? Last week we took Jack to his 18 month appointment (a little late, I know!). Our "baby" weighed in at 25.5lbs and measured at 33 inches. After the Dr. looked in his ear, she informed us he has an ear infection!!! We were shocked. So Jack is now on a 10 day Rx for Amoxicillin.

Zack and I have decided we need to come out of denial that our "baby" is growing up. There have been signs all around us he is not a baby anymore.

1) He uses his "learning table" as a climbing toy!

"Look at me Mama!"
(We have since moved the table to storage!)
2) Last week Jack decided he was done with his crib. He managed to pull himself up on the crib ledge but couldn't figure a way down other than falling off the ledge! Needless to say he now has a toddler bed.

3)When I'm making dinner or open the fridge for ANY reason Jack quickly opens the fruit drawer, helps himself to an apple and runs over to the couch! It's pretty funny to see.

4) He loves to play and be silly. He doesn't always need us to entertain him. He finds fun in everything around him. (Little did we know when Zack bought this tin, it would be used for so much more!)

5) We took Jack to the zoo this weekend and he actually ran around a little by himself and wasn't COMPLETELY scared of the animals. Notice his feet in this pictures, I tried to straighten them out but realized he didn't want them close to the bear!!

We couldn't believe he stood by the miniature house ALL BY HIMSELF!

He even waved good-bye. 6) He went shopping all by himself...HA, just kidding!!! Sweet little Jack bought me a cute Mother's day card and picked out a great gift...

Cannot wait to start reading this book!!!

Mother's day!

We took my mom and grandma out for Mother's day. The restaurant was PACKED (as we should have expected it to be!). We WILL BE making reservations next time. We made the best of it and exchanged cards in the waiting area...hey at least we had a place to sit. Jack handed out all the cards...

Although he always wanted the cards back.

Even GG got a card from Jack!

Sometimes I can't believe I'm a mother! As much as I like being prepared there is NO WAY I could have prepared for being Jack's mama. I am so blessed to be a mother, I know that being a mother is a special gift from God. I am also blessed to have a mother who loves me as much as she does.

For my mother:

Makes me special ALL the time

Overlooks my flaw and loves me anyway

Taught me to love God with all my heart, soul and mind

Helps me be a better mother

Enjoys spending time with my son

Respects me as a woman, mother, daughter, and friend

I love you mom!

Edisto Island and Easter

2011-05-01T15:06:00.023-05:00

The Pelhams finally took a "winter" vacation! We were a little behind all our friends who went to Hawaii, the Caribbean, and Florida during the COLD winter months. But the day before we left it snowed like crazy, it snowed during the week, and it was in the 30's all week!! I shouldn't be bragging but it made us enjoy our trip even more! We met Zack's parents, sister, brother-in-law, niece, and brother in Edisto Beach, South Carolina. It was very beautiful and relaxing. Jack did wonderful, we were able to keep him on his schedule - that makes for one happy boy!

Enjoy all the pictures!

Jack and Naomi ("Nomi") meeting for the first time.

Jack even went shopping for Nomi before we left on vacation.
Jack kept very busy sweeping the front and back decks.

One day we took Jack and Nomi to the Children's museum in Charleston. I think they both had a great time. This particular room was filled with golf ball...Jack was in heaven!

Jack enjoyed his time in the pirate ship - Ahoy matey!

After exploring the pirate ship, golf ball room, water room, and the grocery store we joined Nomi in the toddler room.

While in Charleston we walked around town to see a few of the sites. This is our ONLY family picture from the trip! I loved seeing all the blooming flowers, trees, and green grass.

Zack and Jack are looking for golf balls...there was a golf course right behind the house.

The weather was very warm and humid...Jack enjoyed playing outside on the back deck. Jack even had some down time...but not for long!

For some reason Jack enjoyed looking at his reflection in this lamp...

Zack and I even took time to relax.

One day we took Nana and Jack to the Serpentarium. He really enjoyed this iguana until he moved! I think Jack thought he was a statue.

Jack hung on pretty close after the iguana experience!

This is Jack's impersonation of a lizard!

We took Jack to a nearby park. We realized his love for slides. I just love his smile.

On this trip Jack experienced his first ice cream cone. He wasn't so sure right away but he quickly caught on!

Once he discovered the bottom of the cone he was hooked. He ate BOTH cone bottoms!

A little guy needs a break after all that ice cream.

My two favorite guys!

Daddy, Grandpa, and Jack deciding where to go next...

Time for a Pelham family walk!

We found this little creation as we were walking on the beach.

Watching the birds with mama. Jack loves birds and there were plenty of them!

A final good-bye cousin kiss! Jack wasn't so sure :)

We returned the day before Easter! It was nice to be home to celebrate Easter with my family. I was also very appreciative that my mom offered to have us over for a wonderful Easter brunch.
As tradition would have it Jack found a trail outside his door. (Since the "Easter bunny" was a little behind in her shopping and there was NO Easter candy left at the store she had to settle for Starbursts - they are springy right?!?!)

Someone needs to hold the candy dish...

At the end of the trail Jack found an alligator basket filled with animals from Noah's ark.

Notice whose Easter basket he is holding...Daddy's! He was more interested in Zack's basket than his own...

Daddy's basket had chocolate eggs in it. As you will notice in following pictures, Jack loves to see how many things he can carry at one time.

An Easter picture with Gran Gran and Papa. We told Jack to "smile for the camera"!!!

***News Flash***

The Easter bunny made it to Gran Gran and Papa's house too!!! The bunny hid eggs all over the living room. Do you think Jack was interested in putting them in the basket?? Nope, he wanted to carry them all!

This Easter season we were reminded of God's amazing love for us. I love Easter because to me it represents new beginnings.

God is Good!

Jack Oliver is 18 months old...

2011-04-11T14:34:00.029-05:00

We can hardly believe it, our baby is 18 months old! It seems like yesterday he was born. We had no idea when we saw this face for the first time that we could love something SO much. We love him more and more each day.

A quick trip down memory lane.

18 minutes old

18 hours old 18 days old

In honor of our 18 month old, here is a list of 18 things we LOVE and APPRECIATE about Jack Oliver Pelham.

18. We love his appreciation for animals and animal noises.

17. We appreciate how he is so gentle with Lucy and other pets.

16. We love how he shares his sippy cup with his stuffed animals.

16. We love how Jack thinks he's all grown up and tries to act like mom and dad!

15. We appreciate his willingness to learn new things.

14. We love how he eats most things.

13. We love how our "miscellaneous" drawer brings him such happiness!

12. We appreciate his "investigative" mind.

11. We love his hugs and kisses - xoxo.

10. We love his energy - climbing, dancing and jumping.

9. We appreciate his quiet times (only at bedtime!)

8. We love his snuggles.

7. We love his willingness to help!

6. We love his appreciation for the outdoors.

5. We love his appreciation of music.

4. We appreciate his willingness to listen.

3. We love his appreciation for books and reading.

2. We appreciate it when he finds NEW books to read!

1. We LOVE this silly face!!!

Happy 18 months Jack Oliver!!!

Over the river and through the woods...

2011-04-06T14:45:00.017-05:00

To GG's house we go. She is always happy to see Jack...and us! Lately she has been spending Sunday afternoons at my parents house so we visit her there. This weekend she was at her apartment. Only at GG's do little boys get CHOCOLATE!!! I think he enjoyed every bite. GG also gave him crackers. I think he liked the chocolate better...I know I would! Oops! He hasn't figured out you need to pull BOTH cords.

Our lives are about to get busier... (drumroll)

WE'RE MOVING!!! We knew eventually we would need to move but we didn't plan on moving now! But as most of you know...it's when you're not looking that something comes up! We have signed a purchase agreement but need to sell our house first. We plan to put our house on the market in a few weeks. I will post some house pictures soon so if you know of anyone who is looking for a cute house... :) I'll sign off with a father-son video. (And yes those are the balloons in the background!)

We're back...

2011-03-28T14:45:00.008-05:00

Sorry for the delay in posts...I guess life gets crazy sometimes!!

Jack continues to be busy as ever and is growing like crazy. He has 8 teeth now and loves to eat. Zack was given some balloons as a Thank You for volunteering in a classroom. Jack had a love/hate relationship with the balloons for a while. He would want to get close to them but when he did he would cry...this happened over and over. Finally about a week later he was cool with the balloons and they went EVERYWHERE with him! Jack still enjoys reading time with daddy. He likes to point things out in the books.

"Gram Gram let ME show YOU how to do it!"

St. Patrick's Day!

This is the best picture I could get of Jack's shirt. On honor of the holiday I thought it would be fun to give Jack a green cookie. He LOVED it...in the picture below I am handing him the cookie...look at that face. He wasn't so sure right away, but he quickly figured it out. Loving the cooking...check out those teeth! Our little cookie monster!

Unfortunately I could not let him eat the WHOLE cookie before bedtime....he was NOT happy :(

March Madness - nothing better than eating snacks and watching basketball with daddy!

Perhaps a future astronaut???

Jack is becoming a big helper around the house. He enjoys putting dishes (plastic, of course) in the sink, trash in the trash can, shoes in the shoe rack and laundry in the washing machine. At night before he goes to bed sometimes we undress him downstairs. When we do that we ask him to put his dirty clothes in the washer...he runs right over to the door!

Good job Jack!

Just a quick little video at the end: Jack has this fake little smile he gives when you ask him to say "cheese" or smile for the camera. It's pretty cute!

Just some random Jack!

2011-03-07T15:15:00.003-06:00

Just a few random pictures of Jack. He is in to EVERYTHING and SILLY AS EVER! You will witness the silliness in the video below. He still enjoys the kitchen cupboards...although he takes stuff out AND puts it back!

I know this is blurry but I thought it was cute!
Jack loves watching birds or squirrels from the window...I can't wait to take him outside again!!

Check out those long skinny legs...definitely got the Pelham legs!

Jack was so excited to play with Papa's mug again and spend time with Lucy...he was also happy to see Papa ;)Just a few pictures from last weekend...I LOVE this smile.

Monkey see, Monkey do!! If you know Zack AT-ALL...this picture is classic! When we were driving Jack insisted on "reading" the newspaper. This probably kept him occupied for 20 minutes!

Every once and a while Jack will crawl. He was crawling around the island barking...I thought I would capture it on video - ENJOY!

Party time!!!

2011-02-28T21:39:00.012-06:00

February has been a month of celebrations for the Pelhams and Jack is enjoying very bit of it! This past week we celebrated Zack's birthday...Lemon Meringue pie for all! Jack loves the pie...this picture was taken right before bedtime so we just let him lick the candle. (We are such mean parents)

I asked Zack where he wanted to eat for dinner and he said the the Woodhouse (local place). So off to the Woodhouse we went. Funny thing about the Woodhouse is that you have to order your food by telephone at your table!! Jack wanted to talk on the phone too...
Zack and I had the itch to "go somewhere"...Hawaii was out of the picture so we opted for our neighbors to the East - MN! We quickly realized our travels are no longer about us...we planned the weekend around the Children's museum, meals and naps. Jack did very well in the car and we only stopped once there and back. The first night in the hotel we took Jack swimming...he started to cry when we put his swim diaper on (that should have been our first clue things would get worse...). We took him to the pool and he cried the ENTIRE time. I guess we will have to try again this summer. The rest of the pictures are from the Museum - It was a great time had by all!

There was so much to see and do...

I love his expression - WOW!

A great place for an animal lover.

A trip to MN would not be complete without a little fishing!

When we arrived the bookshelf was full of books when Jack was done with it all the books were on Zack's lap!

This was really fun until Jack threw a block on a little boy's head...

Jack enjoyed pushing the buttons and hearing the different animal sounds...Big surprise he picked the owl first :)

We spent most of our time (and energy) in the "Habitot" section but we checked out some other sections. The LEGO Castle was fun...Jack liked the BIG Legos. Jack is exhausted by now...in the following pictures he is in the stroller and has his nukker!A quick stop to see the turtles.

Exhausted smiles...

5 minutes after we left the parking ramp...

We had a great time. We did manage to squeeze in a little shopping...although everything was size 18-24 mo. or 2T.

Parent Moment: Zack and I officially experienced our first toddler meltdown. After the museum we decided to pick up some lunch - keep in mind it is 12:15 on Saturday at Panera AND Jack has not had a nap. When we go to a restaurant we have a divide and conquer mentality - one person orders the food while the other tends to Jack. Zack stood in line and ordered the food while I took care of getting the table and watching Jack. Jack did fine for a while but then he wanted to be with Zack in line and he started to cry then one thing lead to another and he had a complete meltdown. (Of course I picked a table in the middle of the restaurant!) I packed Jack up and quickly headed to the car (which was two blocks away!). Zack waited for the food and asked the gentleman if we could get it TO GO. He was not happy with that request until Zack told him it was HIS son that was crying!!! I still got to enjoy my soup and breadbowl, maybe they weren't together but they were still good!!!

Pictures, pictures, pictures...

2011-02-21T13:37:00.009-06:00

So many pictures this week...I will start with the continuation of valentines day! Zack prepared dinner for his valentines! He made hearty halibut chowder, I think he spent more time in the kitchen making it then we did eating it :) He topped the dinner off with one of my favorite desserts - french silk pie. Mmmmm! Jack was more interested in this pie then HIS birthday cake!

Zack and Jack surprised me with beautiful roses.
Jack absolutely loves Zack's shoes...
Not so easy to walk in though...

"Do you wanna try mama?"

Jack now completely understands when he hears the word "GO"...I said "let's go" and he immediately ran to get his hat and then ran to the door!!!

Wrestle time with daddy!

This weekend we called Grandma...

Jack would rather play with the phone than talk on it!

We went to visit Great Grandma (GG) this weekend. Jack pretty much destroyed her place! Below he is trying to get to the dog treats! You will notice in every pictures GG looks nervous...

Jack found this spool under then table...GG doesn't want him to unravel it...!

"I love to draw GG."

"AND I love to play with remotes GG."

"But GG it's so fun back here!"

Notice GG is happy in this picture...Jack is seated :) When we tell GG we need to leave she usually asks why we need to leave so soon...not this time!!!

And who says wheelchairs are for senior citizens?!?!

This video is so funny because Jack usually insists on feeding himself but here he opens his mouth when Zack gives him the spoon...what a goof! (He's fussing at the beginning because he wants see see Elmo and Cookie Monster on the plate!)

"Baby it's...HOT outside"

2011-02-14T14:39:00.013-06:00

The weather was sooo nice this weekend...we hit a high of 44 degrees! Weather like that calls for a trip to the zoo. We had a great time...it was not very busy and all the animals were very active. Even though it was "hot" out we still bundled up! (Thanks Aunt Rosie for the fleeced lined pants.)

This is the closest we have ever been to the tigers! They are so beautiful.
Brown bear, brown bear...

I just love this picture...all the wolves are lined up! They must know Master Jack was in the house!!!

I know I have shared this story before but when we were little my parents started the tradition of the Easter bunny trail...I decided to carry it over to Valentines Day! Can't have enough candy trails, right?!? It was fun watching Jack collect his kisses! He put each one of them in the bowl. (sideways video below!)

And the kisses lead to...

We bought Jack some musical instruments...a drum, shaker, tambourine, jingle bell, and maraca. We also added three tennis balls... And I bought Zack a stud sensor...I'm such a romantic!

Of course he would like the tennis balls the best!

As I said earlier the animals were very active. The wolves were running back and forth...Jack loved it.

Not sure what I was thinking...guess I had the camera turned around...sorry :(

I'm sure next week I will have more Valentine pictures...Zack is making Jack and I dinner tonight - Mmmm!

New things...

2011-02-08T19:53:00.015-06:00

Jack is always finding new things to do. His latest thing is anything rolled up...a map, wrapping paper, plastic covering...I think his favorite is the map! Here he has put his sippy cup in the tube and is trying to drink from it - crazy kid!

Jack has also discovered the light switches! If Zack or I switch on/off a light he insists on being picked up so he can switch the light off/on.
I'm sure every kid has a picture like this. I usually put his food on his tray and he feeds himself. However during this meal he kept pointing at the bowl so we just gave it to him. Next thing we know...it's a hat!!! Good thing it was bath night :)

While I prepare dinner Jack plays in the kitchen. He probably gets away with more than he should but it's hard to make dinner and play with him. He lights up when I open the refrigerator door to get something out. When the door does open Jack is RIGHT there. He enjoys taking all the bottles out and pretending to drink from them!

His favorite bottle is the hot sauce...maybe it's because I ate so much hot sauce while I was pregnant with him??? (not sure why he only has one slipper on??)

Jack has a fascination with Zack's boots...he is always putting something in the boots. Lately Zack has found a ball, puzzle pieces, a sippy cup and a car in his boots. We thought it would be funny to put the boots on Jack or maybe I should say put Jack IN the boots...he loved it :)

And you thought these were only used for cooking!!!

Weekend fun!

2011-01-31T14:08:00.020-06:00

Our weekend fun started when Zack took Friday afternoon off...one of my FAVORITE surprises!!! Jack and I love spending extra time with Zack.

Friday afternoon we took Jack to the library for the first time...well not the first time, but the first time he played in the children's area! Zack has such fond memories of going to the library when he was little...he wants to make sure Jack has the same memories.
Jack thoroughly enjoyed the mushroom chairs.

In addition to finding new books, Jack found so many other fun things to do...

After the library we took Jack out to eat...since he has become more mobile we try to stay away from sit-down restaurants. We were feeling brave Friday night! Jack had a blast and was very good. I asked the waiter for a children's cup (I remembered the milk sippy but forgot the water sippy)...the waiter returned with THIS cup. And if you know Jack at all, once he saw the cup/straw there was NO going back!!!

He nearly drank the entire cup of water!

On Saturday we took Jack to his first basketball game. He did really well...for the first quarter! After that Zack, papa and I spent lots of time running in the hallway ;) I forgot the camera for that event but I'm sure there is more basketball in his future!

On Sunday morning Jack thought he would try Zack's slippers...

The weekend fun ended with "tent-time" with daddy!

I've taken several videos of Jack doing animal sounds. This is the best one...we didn't get all the animals but it's a good mix! Enjoy.

Football with daddy!

2011-01-24T14:54:00.010-06:00

It's been a quiet week for us in the chilly North!

Jack continues to make us laugh...He thinks it is so funny to put this box on his head.

I ran a few errands yesterday and came home to see my boys watching football. Zack said Jack sat this like for quite a while (of course Zack was feeding Jack and letting him drink out of his water cup!)
I think Jack stood up to cheer for his team!!! (not sure who he was cheering for...)
This weekend I bought Jack some BIG crayons to start coloring. I drew a few pictures with him this weekend (top two pictures). We asked the babysitter to color with him...I came home today to find the bottom two drawings! I obviously DO NOT have the creative gene!!
I have NO idea who this commercial is for but Jack LOVED the animals!!!

Smile

2011-01-17T10:57:00.011-06:00

Jack is such a happy little boy, he is full of smiles! "I REALLY get to feed myself?!?!"

Along with animal sounds we were trying to teach Jack to stick out his tongue when we say "what does a lizard do"...guess we should practice that trick when he is NOT drinking milk...

I can just imagine the thought bubble above his head..."Not fair, I have to eat raisins and they get candy bars...I don't think so!"

Some good friends came over to watch the football game yesterday and instead ended up reading books and playing peak-a-boo!

On the go...

2011-01-10T15:04:00.020-06:00

Our little guy is on the go ALL THE TIME!!! Zack and I are both exhausted by the end of the day. We can't even stay up until 10:00pm on the weekends anymore...

Zack and Jack put the tent together...Jack LOVES his tent. If you ask him if he wants to go in his tent, he runs in the tent and sits down! It's pretty cute. We tried to get a video of him running into the tent but once he saw the camera, he wanted the camera and wanted nothing to do with the tent.

(Side note: If Jack does not have pants on in a picture, that means the picture was taken after dinner. He makes such a mess eating we just remove his pants after we take him out of the high chair!) "This is so cool!"

"Peek-A-Boo!"
"Dad, this is fun but we need some toys."

Jack enjoys all his new toys but is still trying to figure some of them out.

A day would not be complete without a ride on the tricycle with dad!

I thought these next two pictures were soooo cute! Jack is so serious...

The latest favorite "toy" are the ear warmers.

Jack put these on ALL BY HIMSELF...He is wearing a visor backwards and ear warmers. What a goof!

He played quite a while like this...

We love our little goof soooo much!!!