Off to Ohio We Go.....

First off, this was no vacation, but a necessary trip to visit Grandma Jane.   Grandma Jane has been in the care of hospice for almost a year.  As of late she hasn't been doing well, has been in and out of the hospital and she'll be 96 in July.  However, the trip was scheduled since the hospice nurse is doubtful of her ability to make it to her birthday.  The last time my parents were over for a visit I told them I would love to go and visit but it would be next to impossible to drive that long with Isaac by myself. Well, within a few days the trip was scheduled and it was a Strickling road-trip to Ohio.

Memorial Weekend

Our Memorial Weekend was fairly low key.  Since papa was tied up several nights this past week with work functions I submitted a "vacation" request for Saturday.  ;)

11 Months Old

Isaac,

I watch you grow with each passing month and I can't believe you're almost a year old.  I have to say, the 11 month milestone, more than any, you look more and more like a little boy.

My Helper

Since we have a real, for sure, moving date that isn't going to move this time......there is lots to be done.

Dancing Isaac

Since Isaac had such a great time at Gymboree classes the last time we went back for another class.  It still took him a few minutes or so to warm up to the environment but this time it was much shorter.  Within the first 10 minutes he was ready to explore.

More Packing.....

The house saga has ended.  Earlier this month, when asking for a status update from our Realtor regarding the short-sale house we've been attempting to purchase since January, we were informed of more delays and it didn't look like we would be able to close in May.

Brush-a....Brush-a....

Given the amount of teeth Isaac has we're supposed to be wiping his teeth with a soft cloth daily.  Well, Isaac wants no part of this activity.  While he does chew on puppy numerous times throughout the day, I'm not too concerned but since I had an extra toothbrush I thought I'd open it up and see if he would be interested on chewing on it.  Worst case I thought it might feel good on his gums.

Isaac's First Gymboree Class

Isaac has been having play-dates with Parker every couple of weeks or so and I've been wanting to get Isaac around more little kids to help him socialize so I took him to a local Gymboree class with my friend Kali and the little boy she watches, Parker.

Our First Mother's Day

Mother's Day.  I can honestly say Mother's Day has a new meaning.  Its not only a day of celebration but a day of reflection.  I've read many blogs this year and there are so many different perspectives from mother's who want nothing than a day off from their family, not as a complaint, but to cherish silence and hear themselves think or maybe experience a cherished trip to the bathroom.....alone, to others that want recognition from spouses and many just don't want to cook for the day.  For me, I  have a new perspective on life and the sacrifices made of all mothers.

1st Trip to the Pool

Today was the day!  It was beautiful outside and a perfect afternoon to venture out to the pool for the first time.  I got him all lathered up in sunscreen, got him in his swim diaper and swim suit, packed up the beach towels, his yellow floatie and off to the pool we went.

Prepping for the Sunshine

It's almost pool time!  So, in preparation for our little fair-skinned child, we found a great little tent that collapses and pops up easily to take with us when we go to the pool to keep little man protected.  I also wanted to try it out and practice a few times before actually heading to the pool.  Since I was practicing what kind of mama would I be if I wouldn't let Isaac test it out too??  So, before he got up from his morning nap I made sure it was all set up for him to investigate.

Say Cheese

Wait for it.....wait for it......  Oh, okay, I'm in a good position now.  It's okay to take my picture now.  

Hungry Man

Isaac's appetite was in full swing today!  This little boy is growing and needs lots of fuel to keep him going all day.  He surprised me this morning with his quick consumption of four (4) ounces of yogurt, 1/4 cup of oatmeal combined with 3/4 of a jar of pureed apples and since that wasn't enough he also enjoyed 1/4 of an apple that I chopped up into small bites.

The Dressing Room

It was one of those days and Isaac and I needed to get out of the house.  I also, really, needed to do some shopping and find some shorts.  So, I devised a plan, met up with my shopping buddy Jennifer and off to the mall we went.

A day with Isaac

Little man had a great morning.  He polished off his bottle in a snap and then devoured his morning yogurt.  What's a boy to do with full tummy and lots of energy until nap time?  Play of course....