Backyard Renovation

For those that have been to our home, you know that we have NO backyard.  It probably measures 10’ x 20’ at most and is more known as a jungle than a backyard.  When Shane and I moved in, we thought it was PERFECT because we HATE yard work – so we never had to pull a weed or plant a flower….until we had kids. Our BIGGEST regret with buying our house is the backyard. There is no room for a swing set or for play toys….and even less room for a table and chairs for those warm summer nights when dinner outside tastes so much better….

It’s clear that Jackson LOVES going outside….and we know Malia will most likely have the same desire. So it was time to do SOMETHING about our backyard.  Wth having a newborn, it’s hard to get out everyday…and Jackson HAS to get out at least once a day. It was time to invest some TLC into our backyard. So this is what we did this weekend…..

 BEFORE

AFTER THE WEEDING


REPLACEMENT OF SOME STONES

AND SOME SILLY TIME


PREPARING FOR THE WOODCHIPS


AFTER


MY FUTURE GARDEN…..


We got a water & sand toy for Jackson….now we just need a BBQ for us…

Back to work and new care!

I think this has been the fastest 8 weeks I have ever experienced in my life - the 8 weeks following Malia's birth!  A few months prior to Malia being born, my boss and I discussed how much time I was to take off for maternity leave. 8 weeks did not seem like nearly enough time, but it was either that or I be replaced (which I totally understand). At 7 weeks post-partum, my boss called  to check in and offered to let me bring Malia to work for the first few weeks to allow us both to get adjusted to life "back at work".  I WISH I could continue doing this - she is such a good baby, and my friend Maddie let me borrow her portable swing, which Malia LOVES. My heart just aches knowing I have to give her to someone else to watch.....but I must keep this job. They are so good to me, and I will kick myself if I lose it.....

To make matters more challenging, Jackson's care provider, his Nana finally went to the doctor after suffering through back aches for a long time. Turns out her back is a lot worse than she had thought it was and can't continue to watch Jackson - we want her to heal so that she will be able to play around with him in the future. 

Luckily, my best friend Diandra offered to watch Jackson 1.5 days a week while I am at work.  Jackson has known Diandra since birth and he absolutely ADORES her and her 2 kids, Logan (almost 4) and Scarlett (2).  He fits along perfectly with them, and Shane and I agree that he does so well with Diandra and her kids - I think the social interaction is JUST what he needs! He actually asks for "Aunty Dee, Wogan & Socket" every day! Plus, Diandra has an awesome yard and is always doing fun projects with her kids.  I know Jackson is already thriving there - I can't wait to see what he comes home with at "Auntie Dee's Daycare". 

Now we are just on the hunt for care for Malia. I think a small part of me is in denial that I actually have to give her up to someone else to care for her. Or maybe I am convinced that I can weasel my way into bringing her to work with me 1 day a week.  Either way, at least I know that it will all work out in the end.....look at how well it's turned out for Jackson. This kid is in HEAVEN!

2 Months Old

 
Malia is officially 2 months old today, and time is going WAY TOO FAST.  She has grown SO much in the last 2 months, even her pediatrician was BLOWN away how she is almost off the charts with her growing body.  She is also right on track for all of her developmental milestones – which makes us happy that we are doing everything right…..so far ;)

Happy 2 months baby girl – you make the world that much more sweeter :)

Weight: 13 lbs, 4 oz (98th percentile)
Height: 23 inches (95th percentile)
Head Circumference: 15 inches (50th percentile)

Latest and Greatest:
*The same EXACT weight as her big brother at 2 months old.
*Cooing and smiling a TON. This little lady loves to talk.
*Kisses from her big brother always puts a smile on her face.
*Sleeping in 4-5 hour spurts.
*Eating every 3-4 hours, except at night.
*Learned how to spit up….fun.
*Wearing 3-6 month clothing (Her pedi says she is the size of a 5-6 month old).
*Wearing size 2 diapers
*Takes the bottle like a champ.
*Taking more and more to the binkie.
*Had her first overnight trip away from home to visit her Uncle Chris and Auntie Krista in Vancouver.
*Loves to stare out the window.
*Already had her first “Day at work” with momma.

 

Momma’s Night Out

A few weeks ago I met up with my friend Shawna for a walk down North Creek trail. It was so nice to not only get out of the house, but to have a great conversation with a mom that has been in my shoes before (being a SAHM to a newborn and toddler).  We agreed that although we feel SUPER guilty, that it’s necessary to get out and enjoy ourselves every once in awhile (sans kiddos).  So immediately following our walk, I sent out an email to mine and Shawna’s good mommy friends Diandra and Jenny to coordinate a “Momma’s Night Out”.

The first night that worked was Friday, June 3rd-and it just so happened to be the same evening as Bothell’s “Wine Walk” (thanks for the find Jenny!) Since every momma LOVES wine, this was the perfect event for us!

I have to admit, it was really nice to get a little dressed up, do my hair and wear some make-up. I felt really pretty that night- and Shawna, Jenny and Diandra not only made me feel pretty, they looked gorgeous themselves. 4 hot mamas walking around downtown Bothell!  We had so much fun…….TOO much fun.  After the wine walk, we headed to sushi for dinner and then WALKED home to Jenny’s. The walk was hilarious and one I will never forget. I love these girls!!

     

Summer has arrived in Seattle

This weekend summer finally arrived in Seattle with BEAUTIFUL 70+degree days. I couldn’t help but want to be out and about every single moment with my family soaking up the sun.

We started out going down to Magnuson Park on Saturday where my friend Shawna told me about a “Touch-a-truck” event. She knows how much Jackson LOVES his “gucks” and thought it would be fun to take him there. The best part- it was OUTSIDE! Although the event was better suited for older kids (long lines to “touch” the trucks) Jackson got to see his beloved trucks before melting down. Since we were right next to Magnuson park- we headed over there to explore what the park had to offer.  Hands down, this is the BEST park for toddlers. We even ran into my friend Katie who was there with her husband and son Max. She got her baby-fix by holding Malia for as long as she possibly could :)
Jackson played for a good hour or two before it was lunch/nap time.  He fell asleep in the car halfway through a bite of his sandwich.
   
After Jackson’s nap – we headed down to Mill Creek Town Center for ice cream and feeding the ducks. I think Jackson could seriously do this EVERY single day. He never gets bored feeding the ducks and going on walks. I plan on going on a walk every single sunny day this summer……

   

10-day forecast: SUNNY SKIES AHEAD!!!!