Ryan, MaryAnn and Jackson

Busy,Busy,Busy

2012-02-11T14:46:00.000-08:00

I have had no time to update this poor blog lately- we have been VERY busy these days, doing special things and everyday things.
We have 3 Muscovy ducks that stop by every night around 6 pm for their dinner. We stand on the porch and toss the ducks all of our leftover bread, which we always somehow seem to have lots. Ryan named them Huey, Duey, and Lewey. Jackson loves it and calls them "Our ducks." Yes, we now have a dog, cat, neighborhood cat, fish, and 3 ducks. I'm trying to give him a 'country' childhood people, anyway I can.

Our big man over here has been really into writing his name and recognizing his letters. Here is "J" "A" and "C." I'm a proud mommy.

My inlaws came to visit this weekend, so Jackson and I made Grandma Randy a birthday cake, even though her birthday was in Jan. Devil's Food Choc. with home made icing made by yours truly! So easy and so much better. I will never buy store icing again. One more step towards living more simply and like the 1950's;)

Friday night Ryan and I went to Seven Bridges for happy hour with our friends. We played pool, drank martinis and ate a yummy dinner- Our group for the night included me, Jacki, Heather, Faith, Josh, Jared, Ryan and Michael. Here's a pic of us girls!:)The boys refused one.

Jacki and I had lunch yesterday at an Irish pub by her house and last night Ryan and I headed to Outback for our Valentine's Day dinner. I guess a diet needs to start next week, ha! Especially because we are now going to CB for breakfast this morning. I can't wait to actually read the newspaperand drink my coffee at my leisure. It's the little things these days!:)

In Another Life...

2012-02-01T10:51:00.000-08:00

On Monday Jackson and I met my college room mate Sonia in St. Augustine for the day. I love St. Augustine! I try to convince Ryan all the time that we should live there!

I love this garden shop and stop here every time- Here's Jackson standing by my new theme for this year, Live Simply!

We stopped at The Inn on Charlotte to have our picture taken- this is the B&B Ryan and I went to when I was 3 months pregnant to celebrate. I took J here on his 1st birthday, and now it has become a tradition to stop and take a picture everytime we are here. I'll have to post them all one day, but for now here we are, January 30!

I have been going to St. A for years, literally, and every time I go I find something new that I love. While walking on a side street, we stopped at this little store called "The Way We Were." Now you know, if you know me well, that I truly believe I was born in the wrong era and clearly should have been born in the 1950's. (Yes, I am pretty much anti-feminist, but that's another post for another day.) I love the 1950's- everyone was friendly, lived for their families and community, and the world was safe. So in this shop was everything from the Victorian Era up 'til the 1960's- wedding dresses, jewelry, shoes, hats...like dress up for a grown up. The owner is like a talking history book and every single thing you looked at she could tell you ALL about it. As soon as my inlaws come and watch Jackson for the day I am going back down there for an entire day trip! I would love to dress up everyday, vacuum in heels, make big homemade dinners every night with my beautiful, spotless apron served at 6 pm. In another life, of course, because my patience level and my husband's work schedule just won't allow that. Oh yes, and wonderful pink knockout roses would grow all over my yard.

I love the mystery of old cemeteries. I always try to read the old tombstones and figure out how they passed away. I have no idea why I find it interesting!

Sonia and Jackson standing in front of the Love tree- two trees growing into one!

We finished our day at an old fashioned ice cream shop located in the back of an old drug store. I don't know which was my favorite part: the country decor with bright red cabinets, the live-in-cat-adopted-stray named Brutus, or my coffee cappucino milkshake. Or the sounds of Phil Collins and Hootie and the Blowfish coming from a small radio with the windows and doors open, letting the beautiful weather inside. I love little shops like this! And you know I love cats.And my kid. Heaven!

In ANOTHER another life, I have convinced Ryan to buy a wonderful Victorian B and B in downtown St. Augustine....ok that's as far as that can go because we all know THAT isn't happening. :)

Growing Up Outside

2012-01-27T18:11:00.000-08:00

I say this all the time on here, but I am so glad Jackson loves being outside and I want to encourage it as much as I can. The weather has been wonderful so we've been doing all kinds of fun stuff around town. My favorite thing to do in Jax is the zoo- I love it! We met our friends there on Wednesday!

Checking out the gardens and feeding the Koi fish.

Jackson and Vivi on the Trout River! So pretty!

And..

I also posted some pics from J at the park this week- one of HIS favorite things to do around town. I like it just as much because now he is passed out while I eat cookies, drink hot tea, blog, and watch gross shows like infested or reality shows on MTV. On a Friday night. I.AM.SO.OOOLLLLDDD.

Have a good weekend!:)XOXO.

Wonders of Little Boys and Girls.

2012-01-24T18:53:00.000-08:00

“Play is the highest form of research.”
― Albert Einstein

“All of us are products of our childhood.”
― Michael Jackson

“I have found the best way to give advice to your children is to find out what they want and then advise them to do it.”
― Harry S. Truman

“Childhood is the one story that stands by itself in every soul.”
― Ivan Doig

“Childhood is the most valuable thing that's taken away from you in life, if you think about it.”
― Heather O'Neill

(How do you occupy 2 toddlers for twenty minutes? Give them stickers!)

“In a child's eyes, a mother is a goddess. She can be glorious or terrible, benevolent or filled with wrath, but she commands love either way. I am convinced that this is the greatest power in the universe.”
― N.K. Jemisin

xoxo.

Oh, We've just been livin' the dream...

2012-01-22T18:07:00.000-08:00

Ok, this is without a doubt the longest post I have ever written. I'm cramming a bunch of different updates/events/pics into one so I can finally stop saying 'last week' or '2 weeks ago.' If there is no real transition between each picture I am excusing it with this sentence! We have been having the best time spending time with friends and eachother and trying to spend as much time outside with the best weather. Ready for the post? Here we go:
1. I have the best friends ever. The end.
2. I should seriously consider becoming a personal trainer because in the last 72 hours I have shown Jackson's ENTIRE Gymboree class parents/teacher how to do my favorite excerise move ever, as well as a friend I ran into at the mall. Yes, right in the middle of the mall. A few years ago I would have been embarassed but now, not so much.
3. I have to give a SHOUT OUT to my awesome husband for being the best dad ever lately. We have been doing so many fun family things (hence why I haven't been able to update this blog in a timely manner), including the decision to expand our fam! Not with a baby. Ha. Did I get you? Meet our new beta fish Gru, and his most expensive beta fish home ever.

Ryan had off MLK day and the weather was perfect (again)! We rode our bikes across the street to Tijuana Flats and had lunch. There is a small park with a kayak/canoe ramp that we stopped by on the way home. It was gorgeous and I love showing Jackson God's beautiful creations!

I had to put one in sepia, my favorite.

Last weekend Jackson went to his friend Olivia's birthday party at 02B kids. I've never been before and we had so much fun! The little girl in the pink dress was the birthday girl. Jackson and Olivia are in the same preschool class but about a year earlier had been in the same Gymbore class. Jacksonville gets smaller while you are getting oder I swear!

About 2 1/2 weeks ago I stopped letting Jackson have afternoon naps. I have been dreading it since he turned 2 and I am lucky I got 3 whole years! But having him yell, "Mom! Whatcha doing out there, Mom? What show you watching?" at 11pm and then waking up at 6am everyday got old quick. So now he is going to bed around 8 and up around 8 and it is lovely! Except when he was just to much fun some days and I catch him sleeping in the most awkward positions. I was pushing him in the swing from behind and all of a sudden he stopped talking. I looked to the front and he was sleeping sitting up while swinging(back not touching the swing!) Of course when I ran to get my camera he had leaned back. Still had to document!:)

Last night we had a wonderful time at the Copeland's cookout. Here is their 8 month old baby Aiden, and Jackson being a rockstar!

Today we spent about 10 minutes trying to get both balls down from the trees. Sorry Ladies, the handsome man in red is taken.

After the ball in the tree fiasco and Ryan complaining that he was now so hot, we randomly decided to hop in the car and take J to his absolute favorite place in the world, the beach!

When we got home from the beach, we rode bikes to the lake and fed the ducks. Jackson and I let Ryan watch the football game and then picked up Cracker Barrel for dinner. CB makes every day better!:)My entire house was asleep tonight by 8:10- that makes a Mommy even happier!:)

Have a great week!

New Appreciations

2012-01-21T11:43:00.000-08:00

This August will be 10 years that I have lived in Jacksonville, which just feels crazy! I can remember moving here like it was yesterday into my dorm room with my cute white and pink striped comforter and tons of fun expectations. And truthfully, for about the first year, I LOVED my college but hated the city. And now, 10 years later, having lived in 5 different sections of the city and becoming a parent I have a totally different view of Jacksonville. I love the part of town we live in because it encourages us to get outside and I can have Jackson grow up in the outdoors as much as I can living in a large city.

Our new favorite thing to do is go "hiking." Last Friday the weather was gorgeous and the air crisp and we headed outdoors! This is at a nearby park less than 5 miles away.

I want J to grow up preferring to be outdoors in the dirt with sticks, rocks and insects instead of some playtstaition game, tv, or ipod. I'm hoping I'm instilling an early love for him:)

Isn't the weather beautiful again today? Jackson and I went to Gymboree, baked gooey chocolatey brownies, and all 3 of us are going to a cook out tonight with some good friends. Family weekends, the best:)

2012-01-20T18:32:00.000-08:00

So far this month Jackson has been busy over here making me laugh and hanging with friends! I have fun, beautiful pictures I have taken but I am sitting here in the recliner with a tea and the tv to myself (a rarity) so I'm just too lazy to upload them. Here are the ones I already have:

As for me, I have been really following my simplify lifestyle I am implementing. Besides ordering pizza tonight, I have made big homemade meals for my two boys, been keeping the house spotless and have begun decluttering. I can now add baking to my repetoire- baked homemade banana-cranberry-walnut bread (to go with coffee-yum!) for us and the neighbors. Have I ever mentioned I live in the best neighborhood ever? That might have to be a whole post in itself. I have also 'repurposed' some window curtain panels to make a fishtail curtain and napkin rings (pics to come, once I get up:) )Ryan and I both have "settled down" our weekend plans and are trying to have more relaxed schedules. Yes, this is only the second weekend we have purposefully kept plans simple but it has already made a huge difference!

Have a good weekend,xoxo!

BTILAF Edition 1

2012-01-15T10:46:00.000-08:00

The Best Things in Life Are Free-my new theme for this year which Ryan promptly told me, "HA!" when I told him I wanted us to simplify and appreciate. Hmmmight take some work for him. But look what we've been up to, God's little ways of reminding me He is there!

We have a little family of 3 Muscovy ducks that live in the neighborhood. Some people don't like them but they know I am an animal lover and will often come to the front door to get some treats. Last week they stopped by twice and ate half a loaf of bread, and to hear Jackson laugh and talk to them was worth every slice! We also think they prefer whole wheat by the way:) And if you notice, there is an orange cat food container in one picture. That's for the two stray cats I like to feed as well! So I guess technically we have lots of animals!:)

Nothing like taking an afternoon walk and stopping to make wishes. I wish people never became too old for this.

My Japanese Magnoia is blooming! It's so beautiful that I have even had a neighbor comment a few days ago that she was excited it was starting to bloom!

How lucky am I to spend my day with these two?

We are starting our family board game collection. Here's my family playing classic Hungry Hungry Hippos. What child did not love this game?! I am going to make family game night have a comeback!

And just when everyone is taken care of and I think I finally has a moment to myself, I see this, begging for some petting. Sometimes I just want to lay in bed all day, watching reality shows, ordering food with the air conditioning full blast, just like most of my afternoons in college. But when it comes down to that or all of the eyes I have on me wanting my attention for one more thing or minute, I remember how much I am loved and wanted!

:)

DILLIGAF and BTILAF.

2012-01-14T12:07:00.000-08:00

One of my best friends in high school was a guy named Ben. We had an odd friendship in which he called me Scary Ann and I usually ignored his phone calls, but he understood my love of Journey long before it was 'cool' and I helped him analyze why no one was ever good enough to date 'us.' Did you ever just have one of those friends in your life that just got you, had your back, was fun, exciting, didn't care what anyone thought, and was annoyingly optimistic? That is the complete description of Ben. Spontaneously dangerous would be another description, such as proposing to me in a bar parking lot at 2AM and asking me to move to Japan..but I digress.

Ben's philosophy on life is DILLIGAF- Does It Look Like I Give A F#@k. He taught me to live this way and it became my theme through college. I would even qoute Shakespeare, "To Thine Own Self Be True" when I was being called out for being selfish and possibly rude. I know, me?? I used this phrase often.

And now..I am a wife and mommy and I want to teach Jackson to be nice and (gasp) care.So, my new year's resolution for 2012 is implementing a new theme into my life-BTILAF.

Btilaf- Best Things in Life Are Free. My resolution this year (one and only) is to teach J, Ryan, and Myself to appreciate the little things in life that we often ignore in our hurried, busy lives. Probably Cliche. But I really want us to change our ways and Simplify. Simplify our Ways, Our Life, and How we spend our money. We've already started and I have taken pictures to share but they haven't been uploaded. (Today We have been to Starbucks, Gymboree, a birthday party and Zaxbys and it is 3:30. See?)

Although I made it into an acronym. I got this idea from my idol SB. She has my DDRREEAAMM job (get paid to blog, cook, do art and write books at my leisure? Yes Please!) It's probably the old lady that is coming out in me. I looked at quilts in Cracker Barrell the other day and literally said aloud that none are country enough. Now that, my friends, is an oLd lady talking.

So, here is to simplyfing, and remembering that the BTILAF 2012!

Allergies!?

2012-01-13T18:04:00.000-08:00

We finally got in an appointment with a local allergist and had a "prick test" on Jackson's back. He did awesome and barely cried. And we finally got our answer to the random runny noses and congestion- He is allergic to dust, dust mites, and oak trees (every variation)!
Here is my tough man:

I am so relieved and happy to finally have an answer but had to come to terms I can't enjoy 2 FAVORITE things ever for the next 15 years- enjoying a nice day with the windows open and bringing J to the library. Yes, the doctor told me I can never open my windows (pollen) and no library trips (dust mites in the carpet). Sad!

New Year's Eve 2011-2012!

2012-01-13T17:51:00.000-08:00

It's Friday night and I am updating my blog from 2 weeks ago..happily. I am so old!

I still can't decide if it's NYE 2011 or NYE2012 but either way, we had a party and here are the pics finally!:)

Yes, beads ended up in our tree..

Here's to a wonderful new year!!!

New Orleans through Pictures

2012-01-09T11:37:00.000-08:00

Christmas Day 2011- New Orleans!

2012-01-09T11:21:00.001-08:00

Christmas Day in New Orleans with Ryan's family was special this year because we hadn't been there or seen everyone in over 3 years. We had the best day- here is a picture of everyone after lunch on my inlaws front porch!

Christmas morning!

We loved having time with Ryan's family!

Here is Ryan's Grandparents with all of their grandchildren and great-grandchildren- special pictures like these are hard to get without anyone missing!

Merry Christmas 2011!XOXO

Special Dates with my Husband.

2012-01-05T12:15:00.000-08:00

Ryan's parents loved having Jackson in town so they offered to watch him so we could do things alone (which was so nice and much appreciated!) I called them my special dates. The first picture is the most ridiculous experience I think we have ever had. Even though it was POURING, I insisted we go to the French Quarter and be 'touristy' and luckily my awesome husband agreed. We grabbed two umbrellas and thought we were good to go.

We drive the 10 minutes to the square from my inlaws house and can not find parking. Everything is packed, even in rain, so I convince Ry to use the parking garage. In any other town that is the logical choice but not here. It is 5 stories with no walls and if I can stand on my tip toes I can reach the roof of the next level. The ramps are not covered so you squeal out just by pressing the gas pedal and are the lencgth of a car and a half. There is no elevator just steps so steep I can not put one entire foot on one step. But...we did it and were ready to walk around.

As SOON as we walk away from the garage, it monsoon rains. We pop out our umbrellas and the wind immediately blows them inside out. We start running because there is no overhang from the buildings, only to step in literally feet deep puddles (holes) because no road or sidewalk is stable there.

After about 5 minutes of running, trying to yell to eachother over the wind, rain and ridiculous drivers going by, we find a tiny alcove next to a very shady building (several homeless people were there because it was the only available overhang) and we decide we will shop later and go eat lunch first. If you know my husband at all, you know he was LOVING every minute of this day.

We get to the restaurant, Muriels on the Square (a very fancy restaurant). Although it is 11, they will "Not serve us food yet because they are not open until 12 but we are welcome to come into the bar and drink if we want." Obviously this would only happen in New Orleans and obviously we say of course! So here is the picture of us at the bar, soaked, dripping wet tennis shoes, and happily drinking our drinks at 11 am.

We had lots of coffee dates at (Me: "This looks sketch." Ryan: "It will grow on you.") this hidden coffee house.

Fancy dinner at Cheesecake Bistro!

Here we are on the main square, Andrew Jackson Square. Ryan says our Jackson is named after Andrew Jackson the Defender of New Orleans.

Even though it was REALLY cold we toughed it out and got frozen drinks to go...because that's just what you do there.

We walked around for almost an hour (in the freezing cold wind) looking for a certain restaurant that Ryan used to go to with his parents on Christmas Eve. When we finally found it, it wasn't open! So we ende up at goold ol' Bubba Gumps where I was promptly informed by Ry and the waiter that seafood should NEVER be fried when I tried to order fried shrimp.

We went to Harrah's on Christmas Day night and only won $38 bucks but it was fun!

I loved having a husband-tour guide!<3

New Orleans Aquarium

2012-01-05T11:55:00.000-08:00

On the first full day in New Orleans we took Jackson to the aquarium. Ryan used to love going here as a kid and couldn't wait to bring Jackson (Ryan has been asking to bring him since before J was one).

Not sure who loved eachother more, the penguins or Jackson!:)

I LOVE that my husband willingly does things like this just so I can get a picture!

My favorite part was going to the life size tank where you can actually see how big the sharks, fish, and turtles are compared to you:

I love showing Jackson God's amazing creations!

I wish we had an aquarium closer than we do (Atlanta, GA). I love to do something educational such as museums or historic sites every vacation. I've always been like this and I hope to pass it on to J.

Aren't the pictures pretty?!

Christmas in the Oaks, New Orleans!

2012-01-04T12:41:00.001-08:00

After an 8 1/2 hour drive, we arrived in New Orleans! That night we took Jackson to a downtown park where they were having Christmas in the Oaks. There were gorgeous light shows, Christmas decorations, a train, Christmas music, a Cajun Christmas Story show...all of it together FINALLY put me in the Christmas spirit!

The Bush Family 2011- Beyond Blessed to call these two loving people my family.

Jackson with Ryan, and Ryan's parents Grandpa and Grandma Randy checking out the mini trains.

The city added carnival rides and live music on one side of the park, and we were amazed our usually shy kid ran right up to do the rides, "All My By Self."

The last ride we did was a wooden, hand carved carousel that was salvaged and refinished after Hurricane Katrina in 2005. The line was long but worth it, it's a piece of New Orlean's history and Ryan's parents loved watching him ride a carousel that's been around since they were little.

I love making and keeping family traditions more than anything!Ryan was brought here when he was a child for years. It had been over 15 years since he had been to Christmas in the Oaks so it was very special for us!:)Jackson loved it!

(Side note: The day after this night Jackson woke up with congestion. We didn't really think anything oof it. Eight days later we had a doctor appointment with the allergist we had been waiting for 2 months to see and guess what!? He's allergic to Oak Trees. Hmm!)

Christmas Came Early in 2011!

2012-01-04T12:23:00.000-08:00

Our Christmas plans this year were to go to New Orleans to visit Ry's family, but we both kept thinking we wanted to have our "own little" Christmas at the house before we headed off to Louisiana. So on the Tuesday before Christmas, about an hour before bedtime, we both just said, "Wanna do Christmas?" "Yes!" And do we did. The presents weren't even done being bought, wrapping not finished, and no cookies or milk for Santa, but it was perfect!

Jackson and Our very Mini Christmas

My two favorite boys opening gifts:)

My 2011 ornament from Ryan!

Santa's favorite toys to bring to Jackson are educational! Yay to fine motor skills and hand eye coordination. Have to stick some education in there somewhere!:)

Lots of people ask if we "Do Santa." Yes, we do and I think it is silly for so many new generation moms to put so much thought into it and tell the people who do "Do Santa" such as I that I "am lying to my kid." The way I present Santa to Jackson is that Santa comes to our house with presents to celebrate Jesus' birthday. Our main focus is Jesus and Santa does not bring a million toys. It's simple, works, and is the truth. So, Merry Christmas!

Kristen Graduated!

2011-12-19T12:37:00.000-08:00

Last Friday Jackson and I went to Ocala for Kristen's graduation. She is officially a Physical Therapist Assistant!

Lining up for diplomas...

This picture is a litle blurry, but that's her shaking the guy's hand on the right.

After the ceremony, we went to Longhorns for lunch, and Jackson surprised Aunt Kristen with flowers!

Congrats Kristen!! (Doesn't graduation music make you want to go back to school for another degree just so you can 'walk' again? I am really jealous of the master and doctorate gowns!)

Before the weekend was over, I wanted to take J's picture by the nativity scene because I've done it every year that we've been there for Christmas since he was born. He INSISTED that he take a picture of me so guess I won't get one of him. Excuse the outfit, I was only supposed to be photographer.

And no visit would be complete without checking on the horses a few houses down. No, I did not pose him, he did this himself!

On Saturday we went to St. Pete and visited my mom and other family. I miss her and wish she lived closer!!

Childhood Friends

2011-12-18T13:32:00.000-08:00

Jackson and I drove down to Ocala this past weekend for my little sister's college graduation. The night before we met up with Jackson's first friend ever Emma at a nearby McDonalds with a huge indoor playset. Emma's mom is my oldest friend from 4th grade Nicole!

Aren't they cute? Emma would be in the top of the playset and he would come down the slide asking where she was- very sweet!

St. Augustine Holiday Tour 2011

2011-12-12T05:40:00.000-08:00

This weekend was the St. Augustine fundraiser Historic Homes Holiday Tour 2011. This was my first year going but it will now be an annual thing because I loved it! You got to tour 25 Bed and Breakfasts in historic homes and each house was sponsored by a restaurant with food and drinks. I didn't take many pictures the first day so I tried to take more the second.

Stephanie and I in front of Augustin Inn

Here's all of us: Me, Denise, Jacki, and Stephanie

We braved the next day with umbrellas, even though it looked like this:

The food the second day made the rain and wind seem not that bad!
Here is the Cedar House, which seemed to be everyone's favorite! Amazingly it used to be the boys' dorm for Flagler College.

This weekend made me want to live in a Victorian house even more! I've stayed in 3 B&B's in St. Agustine and all 3 were on the tour. Picking up ideas from all for our future Victorian farmhouse:)

Sunday night Ry and I picked up 5 guys for dinner and I thought I would wrap some presents while Jackson was out of the house. Wyatt didn't think that was a good idea.

As for TODAY, the house is quiet, I have my coffee, the Christmas tree lights are on, and I can hear the rain hitting the sky light. I love this morning!

But not this guy. Look at those eyes. He just was wants to go outside to use the restroom. Apparently he thinks I am in charge of the rain because he is promptly giving me a stink eye.

Have a good week!

Starting Traditions

2011-12-09T14:32:00.000-08:00

The other night I took Jackson on a walk in the neighborhood to see lights when it got dark.

Of course we had to first feed "Pretty Girls" the neighborhood shared cat who hangs out our porch because we buy the best cat food:)

This is my personal favorite- a set up manger scene with a baby doll. True meaning of Christmas!

He's been asking for 2 weeks if we can go to the store to get a tree. We finally got it down and tried setting it up. I put all the lights on and just when I'm about to plug it in, Wyatt eats a bulb and so half the lights won't work! I took them all down and only had one strand left. I told Jackson to decorate only where there was lights, which was half way up. Looks like we will have a Charlie Brown tree this year. He decorated ALL by himself and is very proud of it!

Last weekend I went to Courtney's annual ornament exchange and got some cute homemade ornaments! Here are some from this year AND last year!

This is the ornament I made. I painted each with the football colors for each families' team and with the monogram of their last name. Stephanie did the same thing without knowning what I did and Ryan promptly told me hers was better once he saw them. Hm.

Jackson left for Disney this morning with my inlaws for his first time! I am so excited for him. While he is gone, I am doing this:

Scrapbooking, gourmet coffee, and supervision from my cat Puckett= BLISS.

Now we're off to triple dinner date with the Sweatts and Camachos! And tomorrow is the Bed and breakfast tour in St. Augustine!

Taking in God's Creation

2011-12-06T18:46:00.000-08:00

Yesterday morning I woke up to a house that was a complete mess. The sink was filled with dirty dishes, garbage can full, and Christmas card supplies strewn on the dining room table. So I did what any logical person would do. I left.

I threw some clothes on Jackson and I and we headed to the zoo to enjoy the gorgeous day. We saw two school buses in the parking lot but once we got inside we didn't see anyone. The zoo was so quiet you could hear the noises from animals across the park, the sun was shining and there was a constant breeze. It was a PERFECT day! I'd even have to say it was the best trip we have made to the zoo so far!

Isn't the world so different through a child's eyes?

No trip to the zoo is complete for our family without feeding Duke the giraffe!

One of my favorite things to do when I was younger were ropes courses..He is already getting ready for one at 3 years old!

Can you spot him? I think he likes this beautiful water fountain patio as much as I do!

Recently Jackson has really been into the monkeys. We went to the primate section of the zoo and we were literally the only ones in the whole section. We caught them during their afternoon nap,lazy with the mommies cuddling their new babies, except this big guy who was very annoyed he was on display. Isn't it eery the way he is using a stick to scratch his eyebrow? So humanlike!

I am so glad I made the chores wait...today's memories are priceless. Can't you tell by this sweet face below?

Lately...

2011-12-04T20:39:00.000-08:00

What's been happening lately at the Bush house?

Playing outside in this beautiful weather..

Getting ready for the holidays..

I bought the supplies while J was in school and we made it together when he woke up. I love it! And only $12 bucks. My kind of decoration.

On Thursday Jackson had a Christmas program where he sang Alleluia with sign language. I am ashamed to admit that I haven't video taped anything really between ages 1-3 so now I am determined to use my recorder more often! So glad I brought it to his school, he did amazing and it was so cute!

Ryan is working on his MBA and this weekend was a take home final exam. I told him I'd get Jackson out of the house so he can work. We went to Ollie Koalas and had a lunch date at McDonalds.

We went to the mall to ride the train and start Christmas shopping...

And today, still trying to stay out of the house, I took Jackson to a new cafe down the street. It's very tiny with only 7 tables but cute so I'll probably go again. After this cute picture was snapped..

..He spilled my sweet tea all over himself and the table. I let him eat lunch without his shirt which ended up becoming a scene because the other kids in the cafe saw he was shirtless and they wanted to take their shirts off. Ahhh fun.
This afternoon Jacki was kind of enough to take some pictures of us for our Christmas card and I'll post 'em soon. Ry was finishing uphis last essays so I took J out to dinner at Red Elelephant soley because he was been saying in his nightly prayers he wants to go back to the "red vroom vroom" meaning motorcycle.

I also went to Courtney's annual Ornament exchange but haven't uploaded pics of my goodies yet so I will when I do. Busy busy busy. Have a great week!

Playground Etiquette

2011-11-28T11:38:00.000-08:00

Yesterday evening I took Jackson to the playground to get him out of the house while Ry did some reading for his graduate class. The weather was perfect so we went to one of the smaller parks with a pond and large oak trees. When we got there we saw there was a family having a birthday party and had apparently invited about 100 guests, who all parked by the picnic tables rather than the empty actual parking lot. Some days I really struggle with me either being too Type A or the only person in public with common sense.

Here's a few questions for you..

Even though there are several slides that are not being used and are far better (bigger/faster) than the one your child is on, why do other children insist on using that particular one?

At what age is it apropriate to sit down on a bench,let your child run loose on the playground, and you read a book or play on your phone?

What do you say or how do you react if you and your child walk FAR away from the playground to one particular tree in a field of trees and a family (mom, dad, sister, baby brother) follow you to the same tree but will not say one word to you? Awkward.

How do you not laugh when you see several people "working out" on the work out trail either wearing flip flops or drinking diet coke? I saw both.

Do you say anything when you see people deliberately litter? One of my BIGGEST pet peeves.

Do you say anything when people are deliberately letting latex balloons go with long ribbon attatched? Am I the only one this bothers? Do they know these ribbons WILL kill wildlife?

Do you discipline another child when you see them bullying another, or behaving dangerously such as climbing on top of the playset where they are not supposed to?

I don't know, maybe I'm too type A..just some thoughts.

My Gratefuls for Thanksgiving 2011

2011-11-26T12:20:00.000-08:00

My birthday fell on Thanksgiving this year so we got to celebrate a 2 in 1 with family and I loved it. Very calm at home with family, my have I changed!

I started the day exactly how I wanted to, a few quiet moments with Jackson before everyone arrived. We rode bikes, made wishes, took a walk and feed the fish. When I make a list of my blessings, I always start with having a healthy child. I remember being 8 1/2months pregnant on a Sunday morning in church, pleading with God to give me a normal and healthy child. He did. And I will forever be grateful and make sure to always start with that blessing.

Grateful to spend my birthday with family and tons of food..

Grateful for moments like these...

Grateful that my brother married a true country girl that can catch fish with her hands to show Jackson...so I don't have to.

Grateful for laughter and memory making.

Grateful for this surprise blessing EVERDAY.

Hope you had a great Thanksgiving!

My Kind Of Day.

2011-11-23T09:09:00.000-08:00

Today we woke up to wind, rain and dark skies. I loved it-it's my favorite kind of morning! I snuggled onto the couch with Jackson while he watched Lion King and I had my coffee and newspaper. When I was working and woke up to this kind of weather, I would think the whole drive there how great it would be to be in my PJS with J and yummy coffee, and now I make sure to never miss the opportunity when it arises.

When spent the whole morning in PJS eating Panera muffins and watching Disney movies. When the rain stopped we put on our rain boots and headed outside.

And last but not least, not only is tomorrow my 28th birthday...

..It's also Thanksgiving-Lots to be Thankful for over here at our house!

Happy Thanksgiving Y'all:)

Thankful Thanksgiving Feast!

2011-11-20T16:24:00.000-08:00

This past week Jackson had his first school luncheon (ahhhh how is he 3, how I am going to school lunches as a mommy and not a student, how am I still in disbelief that he is not my baby anymore?!) The moms brought a side dish and we got to sit with our friends Savannah, Vivian, Olivia and Bailey. Depending on the day you ask him, one of the above lucky ladies is his "best friend/girlfriend." We had fun and I love getting to see him interacting with others when he does not know I am there. We spotted his class through the window:
Jackson's class on the way to the fellowship hall...

Here he is, ready for Thanksgiving Lunch!:)

Ahh Melt my Heart!

This was the only picture I could post of the kids- the girls were wearing dresses and are 3...

I am so thankful I have a happy healthy 3 year old!

Ryan's parents are now in town so we got to have a fun lunch date- we rode our bikes to the new Tijuana Flats near the house. I can not remember the last time we had a pitcher of beer with lunch- it makes me feel so old! We bought steaks at Publix next door for dinner and strapped them into the green car seat, which only adds to making me feel more old.

This is the only picture Ryan would let me take...the weather is beautiful today so I had to get us out doing something after church.

Have a good week!

Special Days!

2011-11-17T10:53:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I had a ton of errands to run and a long 'to do' list..but instead I decided to make the day special and fun with Jackson and do none of my errands. We started with a nature walk to collect and crunch the fallen leaves...

We found and smelled oranges, which he has now decided we need an orange tree.

Red Light, Green Light..

Jackson and I made yummy homemade pizza for lunch- somehow I had all of these ingredients already in the pantry.

We spent the afternoon playing in the backyard..

Sometimes I want to just pack up and move to New England so I can see all of the leaves change and have windy, rainy fall afternoons.

Or in the deep country where little boys live in barefeet...

...and play all day outside collecting walking sticks.

He likes to pile things in my lap...

Our inside cat has been trying to be an outside cat for about 2 months. She watched us play from the window with a scowl. (She escaped about 10 minutes after this picture was taken.)

Thanksgiving Potluck with Friends

2011-11-15T11:50:00.001-08:00

Yesterday our friend Robin was kind enough to host a Thanksgiving Potluck at her house for us to catch up and the kids to play. We did this last year too so I am assuming this is now an annual lunch?:) Jackson loves Robin's boys Sammy and Matt and our neighborhood is off the same road so we will have to get together more often! Savannah was there too so of course Jackson was excited to see "Nanna."
The kids enjoying their lunch!

Jackson and Savannah

The boys having fun in the red sports car!

I meet many moms who do not have a playgroup and support circle of moms like I am fortunate enough to have! I am so grateful for my friends that are going through the same things I am!:) (Yes we missed you, S and V!)

Just some other random thoughts that have been going on around here lately: Have you heard of homesteading? Google it. (Isn't that strange how Google is now a verb? Hmm.)

For about 2 minutes of everyday I start to think I really may try homeschooling for elementary school. Then I think, 'No way girl you are crazy.' And then the next day comes, and I think, 'But what if I..'

Jackson has officially been diagnosed as allergic to dust/dust mites.

And last but not least- My dear husband was happy to report to me that Heidi Klum said the secret to her marriage success is putting her husband first, religion second, and kids third. After I stopped laughing, I told him I will make sure I carve out time just for him, but sorry, he is second after religion. We had a fun date night at Carrabbas last night thanks to Courtney and Al for watching J:)

Small Town Feelin'....

2011-11-13T12:01:00.000-08:00

I have always felt I was born in the wrong decade. People are just not personable and community/family driven anymore. Maybe this is just Jacksonville? I love small towns because of the sense of community and the fun things to do that are for families!I do have to put it out there that Jacksonville is made up of several small sections of town that identify with themselves- such as Beaches, Southside, Northside, etc. The longer I live in the Mandarin section, the happier I am that we live in the most family friendly, 'small town feeling' section of Jax.This thought has been proven again and again, by the person who was behind me in the McDonald's drivethru and bought me lunch to the number of festivals here compared to any other part of town.
Yesterday Heather came and spent the day with Jackson and I and we decided to do fun, small community things!
In the morning we went to the 14th Annual Mandarin Chili Cook off. I had no idea there were so many ways to make chili, and we both agreed the chicken with green sauce was the best! Strange for chili, huh?:) Of course Jackson's favorite part was the bounce house!

After the chili cookoff we headed home for my neighborhood's annual Fall Festival. We rope off one cul-de-sac and have lunch and games for the kids. We walked behind J while he rode his bike. As soon as we got there he spotted the train and wanted to ride- of course he only wanted to sit with Heather! So I took back seat and got to see this sweet boy's silly faces.

The nieighbors brought side dishes for a buffet while the men grilled hot dogs and burgers, so after the train ride we stopped and had lunch...even though we were stuffed from so much chili!

And then played games with our 'new' friends-even though we have lived here for 2 years we just had not met them yet!

Our neighborhood has two entrances and about 200 houses built in 2 phases in the
1980's- this is what I have been told, never had the desire to actually count. If you only use one entrance you can essentially never meet the others that live in the opposite phase as you! So what do you know- while at the fall festival we run into one of Jackson's friends from school! She lives at the opposite end of the neighborhood and we had no idea!
After the festival we came home, watched the game and grilled with the boys, Ryan, Josh, and Jackson. And to finish of this fun weekend, this morning we went to church where Jackson cried when it was time to go because he loves Ms. Dot, who takes care of him in the nursery. And I secretly loved it. Who doesn't want their kid to love church?!Have a good week!:)

Just keeping it real.

2011-11-12T18:53:00.001-08:00

Keeping it real in the Bush household..

I've been really thinking about traditions I want to keep, change and add to our family with Jackson. One thing we are adding this year is a Thankful tree for all of your family/friends/Thanksgiving guests to write on the leaves what they are thankful for- sounds easy and cute until you remember your child AND your dog will not let you have 5 minutes to yourself and your 3 second project ends up looking like this..

..Or you turn your back for 1 second to get the vitamins and you catch him in the candy bag..

..or then the time I put J in timeout for not listening. When the oven beeped signaling he may get out of time out and come apologize to me, he refused to get out because, "I'm not sorry anymore!"

Ahhh. I may be in trouble during teenage years!He's been being so funny lately. We had to get blood drawn to test for allergies and on the way I asked if he wanted to play in the backyard. "Oh Mom, I want to. But..I just can't." (referring to his hurt arm) Or when I tell him to come on and he is shuffling his feet BARELY moving, "But Mom, I am coming." His new favorite however is , "All my by self!"

"Call 911!"...and other events this weekend.

2011-11-06T14:04:00.000-08:00

We are having a prettyyy eventful weekend! Friday we kept it calm and casual and had steak and chili and watch random shows on tv. Saturday morning we went to a good friend's birthday party at a playgroud in town. Jackson's friend Savannah was there and here are some adorable pictures I took of the two. I say it's love:)

After the party we stopped at Panera for coffee and muffins, and my Uncle/Dad arrived soon after to visit for the weekend. Josh came over for dinner and the game, which Ryan made his shrimp ettoufee (spelling? don't know) it was delicious! Josh, Ryan and Uncle Rick enjoyed their specialty beers and decided to start a fire in the fireplace. Apparently someone thought it was a good idea to put 3 logs in our fireplace and soon it got way out of control and huge- to the point of me yelling, ok begging, to call 911, Jackson standing in the front yard, "I scared!" and refusing to come in, Wyatt running around barking, ridiculously loud mutliple fire alarms going off (for 30 minutes or more, not exaggerating), Ryan getting the logs outside while they are still on fire, Josh hosing down the fiery logs outside, setting up fans to get the smoke out, me still begging for 911, Ryan running for the fire extinguisher...whew. Scary. You get the idea. Sheer pandemonium.(Oh I did mention all 3 had been drinking right??) Ryan is OFFICIALLY on fire suspension. Im serious.Because besides THIS scary incident apparently there was another fire incident 2 weeks ago when I went out of town.
So, other than the chaos of fire and almost being homeless, we played soccer, tball, and 'hit the pinata' for hours when the weather was nice!

This is what Jackson does everytime he kicks the ball far-he yells , "Go Noles, Touchdown!"

We finished the weekend with Cracker Barrel and naps, and Jackson beginning to get sick. I know, what are the odds after my last post?!

Revolution

2011-11-04T10:39:00.000-07:00

"For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." Luke 12:34

Yesterday I gave Jackson his breakfast and walked into the kitchen to get coffee. When I walked back out the living room where he eats at his bench, his eyes were closed and he was praying aloud. You can only imagine how that made me feel:)

There is a revolution going on at this house...a FOOD revolution. This has been going on for about 3 weeks unbeknownst to Ryan because he sees green (veggies) in his food and he runs. I was told by him and his mom when we were married he likes steak and potatoes and was given that 4 to 5 times a week. I do not like steak. So.

I've been thinking about it for quite a while but let's be honest, my laziness got the best of me. When you live literally across the street from Zaxby's, Subway, Panera, McD's, and Chilis you get used to just ordering. Then about 3 weeks ago, Jackson got pretty sick. I gave him all of his antibiotics/vitamins etc, and he wasn't getting better. I had heard of a thing called Calcium therapy (yes people I am acquiring even more old lady characteristics and using holistic meds because sometimes I just know I know better than the Doc)and guess what, it worked. I tweaked it for his age/body size.
So now, J and I religiously take our daily vitamins which include probiotics. Ryan is a struggle. And I then realized while pumping vitamin c into his little body, when was the last time I fed this kid something with natural vit c?? Um don't remember. Why you ask? Because we got into a horrible horrible habit of eating fast food 4 nights a week.(Ok I'll be honest, all 4 were from Zaxby's so it doesn't exactly taste like fast food..) Once I realized who often that was I was disgusted and thennnn thank goodness it was like a lightbulb which trust me I don't know why it took me so long to realize this, but THIS is why your kid is getting sick. When you the know the drive thru people by name and they know how your kid likes his order, not kidding, there may be a problem.

So, we have been having a food revolution here. I have been sneaking in healthy foods, lots of fresh veggies into our meals. Ryan can not know or see it or he will not eat it, so I have to cut everything up really small or make dark foods so he can't see it (ha I know, silly). For example, last night I made meatless spaghetti with a TON of fresh chopped spinach hidden in the sauce. And of all the times I have made spaghetti (backstory, you do need to know I make it weekly because it's my fav but I go through phases of how I make it, he hated it when I made it with peas which I thought was yum) he said last night's was his favorite- hm! I just smiled. Now I need to figure out how to hide more veggies in more food. I am in the process of making purees as I type this.
For today though, the house is clean, the windows are open, the babe is sleeping, my fridge and pantry are stocked from this morning's grocery trip and I am making chili and cornbread for dinner...pretty good day:)

Happy Halloween!!

2011-11-02T10:29:00.000-07:00

This year for Halloween we decided to combine Halloween night with a very small and casual birthday party for Jackson. We already had a big party in August for his baptism so we just had something to mark his 3rd birthday with our friends. Jackson has been 'practicing'his trick or treating by ringing our doorbell, me answering, and him saying T or T. He has been so excited to dress up as Woody he could hardly stand it! And here he is:

He loved it and has even been known to where this hat out to restaurants and the grocery store!

Jacki was nice enough to dress up with Jackson as Jessie from Toy Story!I loved it!

While Jacki, Heather and I walked around with J while trick or treating, he was especially excited that Grandma Liz was there!

While we trick or treated with Jackson, everyone else sat in the driveway and passed out candy.

After trick or treating, we hit the pinata in the back yard. After Savannah's party and seeing one there Jackson insisted that he have one too. Jackson, Jared, Grandma Liz and Josh hit the pinata, with the adults blindfolded. Josh knocked it down!:)

Yes, Ryan put trick candles on a 3 year old's cupcakes...and they didn't work so we had to song Happy Birthday twice to get them to work..

We had a great time- thanks to everyone for coming!

Conner's A-maizing Acres Farm

2011-11-01T16:41:00.000-07:00

On Jackson's 3rd birthday (October 29th) we took him to a farm about an hour away. He absolutely loved it and we had a great time, despite getting lost for over an hour on the drive up. We might have to make it an annual thing!

Jackson had a great time walking from the corn maize and climbing the corn maize towers. There are 8 acres of maize but thankfully we didn't get lost!

We did all kinds of fun things at the farm- we played in a tub of corn, climbed haystacks, rode a tractor train, a hay ride, and played on the playground!

We fed the animals, which included horses, cows, donkeys, goat (including a 3 legged one!),a huge hog, and we tried chickens but apparently Jackson is deathly afraid of them- who knew ha!

Daddy's favorite- Funnel Cake!

for my sepia obsession:

Reason 5, 463 why I want to live on a farm- don't you love this picture?

He had a great 'birth' day!:)

My baby is 3! How. Just how?!

2011-10-29T18:37:00.001-07:00

Jackson turned 3 today- I can not get over how fast time is flying with him!

9 months pregnant- Oct. 28,2008

Oct. 29, 2008 I had the best and easiest labor there could have been. I was literally laughing during delivery and the midwife had to tell me to stop laughing and focus ...and at 2:01, He'd arrived:)!

6 months old:)

1 years old and loving sweets just like his Dad!

2 years old at Busch Gardens!

And just to keep it real...Here is Jackson holding up 3 fingers for his 3rd birthday. In his night time pull up. With his cookie cake still on the oven.

Happy Birthday Sweet Boy- WE LOVE YOU!

Happy Birthday Grandpa!

2011-10-25T11:08:00.000-07:00

Jackson and I took Grandpa Liz (my Uncle Rick)to Silver Springs on his birthday. Jackson loved the glass bottom boats and feeding the animals the best!

Silver River- so pretty!

We fed the animals in the petting zoo, and this lovely llama spit in my face..supposedly good luck in Central America so I am going with that story.

Happy Birthday Grandpa Liz!

Fall Parade!

2011-10-24T10:18:00.000-07:00

This may be picture overload for some but I couldn't help myself. Jackson's school had a Halloween costume parade on Thursday (10-20-2011) and he wore half of his Woody costume. It just so worked out that Judy (kiki/christian) was in town and he came with me to see J.

Jackson is in Ms. Melissa and Ms. Becca's class- there are 10 kids total. Aren't they seriously so cute?!

Here is the best one of the class I could get- 8 girls and 2 boys!

After school we headed down to Ocala for my uncle's birthday. We stopped at Druid Hills Pumpkin Patch, my childhood church. I've spent many fall days standing in the back of a hot semi truck unloading pumpkins here. My family would then 'man' the stand and collect money for the pumpkins. Very surreal to bring my child to a place where I used to spend so many of my childhood days. (Crazy sidenote: I have not been to this church in over 10 years. When I got there the people manning it told me to take off my glasses so they could see who I was-and immediately said, "You're the oldest Corley kid!" And that my friends is why I can not bring myself to attend a church where there are parking attendants and golf carts. You lose the sense of community that smaller churches have!!
Here is J at the DHUMC pumpkin patch!

I keep telling him he will be 3 in 2 weeks, and he just says "No silly Mommy, Action 2." :)

Pumpkin Pickers Part 2

2011-10-23T11:01:00.000-07:00

My kid has taken after my own heart and loves the fall as much as I do- including pumpkin patches. We met up with some friends last week (10-19) to take pictures and let the kids play. We did the same thing last year and I can't believe how much they have grown! I would post an old picture but they aren't uploaded to my new computer yet.

Aren't they all adorable?! (L to R) Josh and Vivi, Savannah, Jackson and Jack- Josh is the oldest but the rest of the kids are the same age!

The kids had fun running through the aisles and playing with eachother!

And just some more in sepia because it makes me happy...

On a sidenote- somehow I have made amazing friendships with these kids' moms. I am so SO so lucky to call them my friends. (I know you are reading this- thank you and I love you!:) )

ALMOST 3 years old..How?!?!

2011-10-18T11:07:00.000-07:00

How is Jackson almost 3?! Just how. I can't get over how quick these last years have been!!

Yesterday I had a Playdate Birthday Party at the house for Jackson with his best friends. We kept it small and very casual and he had a blast!!

Here are the kids in their costumes! From left to right: Vivian, Matt, Sammy, Jackson, Savannah and Cecilia on the floor. All the boys were "Woody" from "Toy Story" and would only wear the hat from their costume!

The kids wanted a candle too so we put a candle on each cupcake so they could all blow oneout- Jackson blew his before the song was even over.

Happy (almost) birthday to you baby boy! This was the best smile I could get...

I need a farm.

2011-10-16T11:22:00.000-07:00

I desperately want to live on a farm. I ask Ryan seriously if we can move about once a month. I don't want a ton of animals just an old farmhouse, an older barn where I can throw fun kid parties, and lots of property with trees that change the colors of their leaves every fall. That's not too much to ask, is it?!

I know one day we will buy one (he promised! if I let him choose where- deal.) and so I have begun "my farmhouse furniture acquirings" unbeknownst to him. Shhhh.

Yesterday I took Jackson with me to the craft festival at the same church where J goes to school/pumpkin patch. In my head I think it is a fun afternoon with cool things to find and yet every year I go I am reminded what a headache- have you ever been to a craft festival that has parking attendants as well as police direting traffic? I think I may stick to smaller churc festivals from now on...but, I did find something in honor of my new idol and complete obsession Susan Branch!

(It might be sideways- sorry)If you don't like them that's cool, I am an old lady deep down so I understand. But I love them and really needed something to cover the ridiculous holes in my garage the previous owners left by my washer and dryer- and only $11 total? Done.

And, this will look lovely in my farmhouse:

I finally got around to taking a picture of the antique buffet we bought- isn't it gorgeous?! I love it.

One last thing about farms- guess who is going to an ADORABLE farm animal in December?? I signed Jackson up to be in the children's Christmas pageant at church- I can't wait but am very nervous- wish us luck!

S'more or Schmore??

2011-10-15T10:15:00.000-07:00

I've been thinkng about some of my posts recently, and isn't it our job as parents to make the best memories for our children as possible? Last night was one of those nights. After Ryan came home from work we played in the backyard and grilled steaks. Once it got dark outside we broke out the fire pit and had our first fall bonfire. We told Jackson we had a special surprise for him, gathered up the supplies from around the house, and made his first s'mores!

My happy 2 boys:

Ryan and I disagreed as to whether or not they're are called "s'mores" (me) or "schmores" (him). Pretty sure I am right and although it may be spelled incorrectly, I am calling and typing them what I want.

Jackson's first s'more!

Now you know we're a 'sharing' kind of family, so yes, even Wy-Wy got a s'more (he loved it of course)..

..and even Pucky joined in!

This morning we headed to Cracker Barrel for breakfast and then the MUMC craft festival- pictures to come tomorrow!

Pumpkin Patch Pickers.

2011-10-14T10:16:00.000-07:00

I love fall- it is by far my favorite season. It has my two favorite holidays, Halloween and Thanksgiving, as well as my whole family's birthdays. Jackson's is Oct. 29th and Ryan and I are two days apart, Nov. 24th and 26th. (This year my birthday is ON Thanksgiving!:) ) I also love fall because we have a lot of family rituals during these months that I live for. The rituals that we didn't plan but just started and we've kept them are the best. I want Jackson to look back and have THE BEST memories. One of our favorites is going to the Methodist church's pumpkin patch. This is the third year that we have gone and this is also the same church where J now goes to school.
They started putting the pumpkins out and because he saw them when I would drive to school and would ask if we could go, I knew we'd be there opening weekend. I can finally put these pictures up because all of the family should be receiving them in the mail today and I wanted them to be surprised.

My happy pumpkin picker! (I think we were able to walk away with only 4 minis)

We had a great time picking out our pumpkins- we always pick one our own each-smallest for J, Medium for me, and Ryan picks out the large family one.

I love this picture- I definitely am an old lady (if you have ever been shopping with me then you know what I am talking about). I am sure one day when I am old all of my pictures on the walls in my house will be in sepia- my favorite.

On Wednesday, Jackson and I baked a pumpkin pie cheesecake and gave it to our neighbors. He was very proud of it and I had to include it in this post about pumpkins!

Luck-E.

2011-10-13T08:31:00.000-07:00

I am so lucky!

When We Are Old...

2011-10-11T11:25:00.000-07:00

I ran across a blog I read and she has a son the same age as Jackson. She wrote a list of things she hopes her son remembers when he is older about his childhood and how he remembers his mother. It was the exact thing I needed yesterday because sometimes I need to keep things in perspective with the mindset of, "This too shall pass." So instead of remembering me as the mother who yelled at the pediatrician's office staff to get their act together because we had been there for over 2 hours because they forgot we were in a backroom, or the mother that is yelling and running across the house trying to get to the backyard in time, "Gross! Stop! This is so gross! Lord give me patience! Oh my God Gross!" as Wyatt eats Jackson's poop because he decided to go the in the backyard instead of the toilet (yes friends, this all happened within a 3 hour span yesterday) I got to thinking about what I want him to remember me by.

When Ryan and I are very old and Jackson looks back on us, our house, and me as his mom, I hope he remembers me as:

A mom that always supports him and always says the right thing at the right time. I hope I never say a comment off- hand that sticks with him forever. Someone in my family said something that I am sure they don't remember because they weren't trying to be mean but it was to me and I will always remember.

That I am a mom that loves God, her family, and friends. In that order. Yesterday Jackson picked up a book and told me since I have a special book (bible) he has a bible too. I'm doing something right.

A mom that made her house welcoming and a safe place for him. Where his friends were always welcome to come over, eat dinner, etc. (Secretly so I can watch what he is doing- HA.)

That I am a mom that is cheerful, patient, kind, and honest.

That I have correctly taught him 'the golden rule' and the importance of helping others happily.

I hope he remembers me as a mother that contributed positively to every aspect of his character. That I taught him with my modeling of how you should and should want to behave (and obviously the pediatrician's offic was a big fail. Still working on that.)

I want him to remember his childhood as genuinely happy with patient, sincere, and generous (to others/community) parents that love him more that anything.

Most of all, that I am a mom that made him proud. I am so lucky God gave me him as my son!

"Who Dat."

2011-10-04T10:58:00.000-07:00

Ryan and I have been blessed with great friends and I am so grateful for them, especially my girlfriends. It's hard for women to make genuine, strong friendships with eachother but as I have gotten older and wiser (and put most of my pettiness aside) I have really made some wonderful friendships that I hope will last a very long time! One of these friendships, for both Ryan and I, are with Josh and Heather. We hang out with them quite a bit and last weekend we went to the Saints game (10/2/2011). Even though we cheered for Saints and they cheered for the Jags we had a really good time!

Josh made delicious jalapeno burgers!

This is my very proud husband happily talking 'crap' to Jags fans- I had to keep apologizing and saying sorry, that he is a very passionate Saints fan...

winning score- 23 to 10..and Jags players are pretty sore losers fyi.

Our tailgate spot was pretty with the skyline and river right there, but they are SO. MUCH. CALMER. than college tailgates! Saints won 23-10 which made Ryan very happy:)If you notice in some of the pictures the seats around us look empty. The stadium was packed when the game began and by the 3rd quarter most Jag fans left- which only gave fuel to the fire for Ryan to yell things such as, "Where is everyone going?" "Duuvvaalll!!" (yes they do cheer that, I know) "What's that? Oh, I'm sorry, 23-10" Ha!

"No Crying Mom, No Crying."

2011-10-03T19:03:00.000-07:00

How do you know as a Mom you are doing something right with your child? Because of this:

Friday night Ryan and I got extremely sick- the most sick we have ever been at the same time. We were still super sick on Saturday and I ended up getting sick while sitting on the couch with Jackson. I ran to the guest bathroom and the next thing you know he is next to me patting my back. He brought me a 'throw up bucket' with a bottle of water and a roll of toilet paper (because I cry when I throw up)and kept saying, 'No crying Mom, no crying. It's ok. I'm your big helper." Seriously?! I love him.

How could you not love his "teeth smile"?

Mr. and Mrs. Chamberlain!

2011-10-03T18:50:00.000-07:00

OK I finally got around to the third post of our vacay weekend in Apalachicola!! We went to Ryan's fraternity brother's wedding Brad Chamberlain to Rachelle Donaldson! They got married at First United Methodist (yay) Church of Apalachicola and the reception was across the street at Coombs Historic Bed and Breakfast. Here are some of my facorites:

We had a great time- Congrats to the newlyweds!!:)

...That Blows from Memphis Down to Apalachicola.

2011-09-27T11:18:00.001-07:00

Did I mention I have decided I am going to become a photographer? I am. Ryan laughs, but I am serious. Why do we love this small fishing town so much? Because:

(Carabelle Beach, Fl on the way home)

Coffee and sunrise literally 10 feet from your hotel door with fishing boats going by = THE. BEST.

PS. I promise I took all of these- don't they look like postcards!?

I Don't Want No Scrub.

2011-09-27T10:42:00.001-07:00

Ryan and I went out of town this weekend to Apalachicola, FL for a college friend's wedding. We fell IN LOVE with the city- would move there in a minute- so there is picture overload big time so I had to split this up into two posts. Sorry if it bores you but we loved it there and I had take as many pics as possible!!

We stayed at the Apalachicola River Inn and our balcony was waterfront. It was so amazing to see the fishing and shrimping boats go by right outside of your door and then eat at the restaurant the same food they caught that day! As we checked in, we had to walk past the restaurant cleaning oysters right outside the door straight from the water. So fresh and yummy! We checked into the room and headed right over to the rehearsal dinner where we ate at the best seafood restaurant in town!

Our Room (Notice FIRST thing Ryan does is turn on ESPN. Seriously.)

Ryan and I at the Owl Cafe for the Chamberlain Wedding Rehearsal Dinner!

Best Friends Together Again AT LAST! Ryan has been going through Judy withdraw since he moved last month. He was dyinggg to see him!

Ryan and I with the groom Brad. They were pledge brothers in college and I was introduced to Brad by his dad "Brother Bob" as a lifelong friend. Cute!

Brad's birthday shots with Trish, Ryan, and Christian

After the rehearsal dinner, everyone was pretty tired and decided to go back to the bride and groom's bed and breakfast to hang out and go to bed. I knew Ryan was pretty persuasive but didn't quite know just how much- he somehow dropped me and judy off at the Spoonbill lounge (where we got the party started!) and went back to the bed and breakfast. He convinced the entire bridal party, parents of the groom included- to come the bar, dance and sing karaoke. Here is the proofm including Brad's parents!

Us with the soon to be newlyweds Brad and Rachelle

The crowd was slow in dancing and singing so Judy and I jumped on the dance floor and got the party going:

cChristian, Me and Trish, the maid of honor, sang TLC's "I don't want no scrub." We definitely were the best singers in the place! I think this may now be my all time go-to karaoke song.

Ryan and Christian singing Tim McGraw's "Indian OutLaw" Pretty sure there was a guy there (also named Ryan) that had a man crush on my Ryan- he kept following me around and asking if he could do a duet with my Ryan. Wierd.

It was so nice of the Chamberlain family to invite us to the dinner. We had an amazing time! The night turned out so crazy we left our credit card at the bar overnight- haven't down that in a very, very long time. When we went back to get it the next morning we didn't even have to tell them who we are- they just laughed and said, "How you feelin this morning!?"

Golden Girls Prayer.

2011-09-19T11:17:00.001-07:00

Do you ever give a quick prayer and say thanks for certain people God has placed in your life? I have been doing this often lately. Over the last several years I have formed deep friendships with a few women that ironically I had prayed for before I had even met them. (That's a post for a different day because I don't even know how to explain it with words.)One of these friendships is with my college friend and room mate Lori. Lori and I met in August 2002 while living in the same dorms at UNF. Lori is best friends with Sonia from high school. While I almost got kicked out of the dorms..several times..Lori was a 'rule folower'..or so I thought. Turns out she knew how to be sneaky way better than I did and once I found that out- we were instant friends! Long nights of dance parties, dancing at the Roxy, and causing general college chaos ensued for the next 5 years. Here is one of my favorite pictures of us- this was taken while we were actaully having a dance party at our downstair neighbor's house:

Lori and I in College! This was taken in 2006 while we were living together- almost done with college!

Around the time of graduation, Lori and I got into our biggest fight and did not talk for about a year. Within 15 months of eachother we both became pregnant and had sweet, dark haired little boys. It's amazing what happens when you have baby- perspectives become clearer and things you thought we a big deal all of a sudden aren't. We picked up the phone and started talking like we had just seen eachother yesterday.

On Saturday Lori and Bryce came to Jacksonville and we got to visit with them! We went to UNF to get a few things at the bookstore and I had to take this picture of Jackson for Ryan:

He's a Legacy- our future Kappa Sigma!

We stopped at Angies for Lunch which was one of our favorite places to eat in college. I hadn't eaten there since 2008 and Lori hadn't since 2007. I have NO IDEA how that place is so popular- furniture does not match, I don't think there are many health code rules that are followed (flip flops- gross) but it has sentimental value and good sweet tea so..

After lunch we brought the boys to my neighbor's new bakery they opened to get some cupcakes. Snickerdoodle and peanut butter- to die for! We had a wonderful time catching up and letting the boys play. So grateful Lori and I weathered our fight and are as good as friends as we are today.

After we left the bakery, I ran home, picked up Ryan and headed over to Courtney's house for a pool party birthday for Savannah. You should have heard us negotiating who had to get in the pool with Jack- the things toy don't think about before you have a kid- ha! We had a wonderful time and Jackson had a blast. Here's a few snapshots of the evening:

Birthday Cupcakes for Savannah at the Park!

Celebrating Savannah's 3rd birthday!

Jackson swinging at the Pinata- he was the last one and took it down!

We had a great Saturday- so glad I have friends like Lori and my friends from Savannah's party- God put these women in my life right when I needed them. Reminds me of the saying, "Make new friends but keep the old, one is silver the other is gold." But they're all gold to me of course:)

"Thank you Jesus!"

2011-09-15T12:35:00.000-07:00

Reason 895,409 why I love my husband:

Tuesday night after 6 timeouts and a spanking that ended with me crying and Jackson consoling ME, the adult, Ryan walked in from a long day at work.

"Thank you Jesus!" I yelled from the couch, covered in toys, in PJS with hair not brushed. Not kidding. And yes it was 7pm, Pjs from the night before.

His response was so Ryan and so what I needed.

"Pizza Night?"

So lucky to have him as my husband- he's the BEST.

Inside, Outside, Upright, Downright..

2011-09-12T11:41:00.000-07:00

..busy all the time! I used to love singing that song in church when I was little. I always say we are busy but really, we only seem to get busier and busier. We've been to 3 birthday parties in the last 2 weeks, went out of town, playdates, Jackson started preschool, etc. I was nervous but dying for preschool to start. He cried on and off the first day and just in the beginning the second, so some progress. I went to breakfast and painted pottery with Stephanie and Courtney the first day and cleaned out my office and car the second, and didn't think cleaning without interruptions could get any more glorious.

On Friday we did this:

This is Jackson and I with our friends Stephanie and Vivian (9/9/11)

Ryan and I had to actually write in our planners- FREE weekend- for this last weekend so we could just spend all day together at home. I took Jackson to Barnes and Noble after his nap to give Ryan an hour or two at home in peace watching football and my heart literally soared-I'm talkin' I had to use every face musle I had to not smile when I had to tell Jackson that no really, it was time to go- because he threw the biggest fit when it was time to leave. He absolutely loved the bookstore and has been asking to go back. When you become pregnant and have a baby you have these little tiny hopes for them that you may not even realize until it happens but I have always had this little hope he would LOVE to read as much as I do and.. he does. So, all is right in the world.

Ha. Right.

On Sunday we went to breakfast where I occupied Jack by feeding leftover toast to the black crows in the Wendy's parking lot. I'm sure they loved that. We then went to the zoo, fed the giraffes and birds, ate snowcones, and he took a long nap. Josh and Heather came over for dinner and we had a chance to finally catch up. A pretty good "free" weekend. :)

Today we went to Savannah's birthday party at the park and then the pediatrician to check on his allergies. And guess who was right about not putting tubes in his ears against doctor, nurse, and even family advice? ME. Yes Me. Maybe it's because the nurse literally laughed when she asked, "Why are you canceling his ear tube appt?" and I responded, "Because I'm his mom and I don't think he needs them." that makes me so proud of myself. I don't know why but mothers just know. So now instead of tubes he is put on Singulair indefinitely as well as prescription nose spray (who knew this existed?) $330.98 later I should have a healthy kid. Jussstt kidding, thank goodness for good insurance. But what if we didn't?!

Now that he is in school and I do have a few hours to myself, I am determined to start cooking very healthy meals everynight and use as many coupons as I can for the groceries. Right now I have meat and veggie sloppyjoes in the crockpot, which I think is de-li-cious but Ryan call it my 'crockpot crap.' I told him he needs to get over the steak and potatoes every night. No, really, that's what he wants. Every. Night. I also have my coupons organized but won't become like those crazies on TV. Who has 40 hours a week to spend on couponing!?

Ok last thing, I am buying a camera tomorrow so my posts won't be long boring texts sans pics. I promise!

Labor Day Weekend!

2011-09-06T11:45:00.000-07:00

Ryan, Jackson and I went down to Ocala for the weekend to visit my family for my brother Rick's 26th birthday! We hadn't seen him and his new wife Jamie since May and Jackson couldn't wait. Of course I have no fun pictures because I have no camera due to my lifesaving abilities..we hung out at the house on Saturday night and ate wings from my fam's favorite wing place and drank wine and played board games.. Good ole' Ocala fun.
We went to Farmhouse for breakfast on Sunday which I always say is my favorite place but everytime I go I want to conduct a class on southern hospitality to the waitresses and the food is only mediocre at best. I guess it's because it's decorated the way I forsee my future kitchen- so country it's almost tacky. Yes, that is my dream. In my future farmhouse. So it will go together, don't worry.
I then had the pleasure of sitting in the lobby of a walk in clinic for 3 hours with Ryan who told me he was so sick he might have to go to the ER. We saw the DR for literally only 4 minutes, after I had to tell the male nurse to, "Drop the attitude." You can tell what type of professional place this was. Ha.
We ended up going to a really fancy dinner for Rick's birthday and had a good time (after Ryan was Z-packed up). We went to IHOP the next morning and headed back to Jax- we already miss them.

My Brother Rick with Ryan (the night before Rick's wedding)

Happy Birthday Rick!

Best Weekend.

2011-08-28T11:01:00.001-07:00

You know when you just unexpectedly have one of the best weekends? That happened this weekend for us and it was desperately needed for Ryan's sanity and his crazy work. Ryan's mom was in town watching Jack for us so we did things just the two of us and we had so much fun!

(I may have already put this picture on here but I am running low on picture supply until I get a new camera.)
Saturday we planned to have a picnic on the beach and swim in the waves from Hurricane Irene. We were starving and didn't make it out of the car to eat so we just sat with the AC on eating our lunch and then headed out to the beach. Besides having to dodge surfers and me losing my sunglasses we had the BEST time. We took a three hour nap (you have no idea what a privilege this is unless you have a kid) and then went out to dinner with the Roches, Jacki and Jared.
Jared and I

Jacki and I (she is standing on my right)

I tried to find just a picture of Jacki and I, but like I said, low pic supply. We went to Carrabbas in St. Augustine and then to the historic district. We went to a tiny bar that is themed for the St. Aug time period and had sangria while the boys smoked cigars. We played a board game there that went along with the decor of the bar and it reaffirmed I am not got at math but we had fun.
And now, after having Panera for Sunday breakfast and Zaxby's for lunch, both of my men are sleeping while I am cleaning the house. Why am I cleaning my house, you might ask, since I keep it in perfect condition at all times??
Because I have a new antique buffet! WHOOOO. You have no idea how excited and happy this makes me. My DREAM, and I mean it will happen one day, is to have a farm with a Victorian farmhouse fille with antique souvenirs. I love to look up old furniture online and price them. My neighbors knocked on my door yesterday and randomly are getting rid of their buffet. They bought it a long time ago at an antique shop and are giving me a very good deal. And after negotiating with Ryan to let him sleep all day today he would buy it for me- DONE. :)

Best Weekend.

All Boy.

2011-08-22T12:05:00.000-07:00

Feedin' Fish.

Ridin' Bikes.

Climbin' Trees.

Raising him to be a Southern boy:)

My view from the couch.

2011-08-21T15:52:00.001-07:00

"Mom, I see Biiiigg Waves!"

2011-08-19T18:51:00.000-07:00

I told Jackson that when he woke up from his nap I would have a big surprise for him. And what do you know? He woke up, yelled from his room, "Hey Mom!" I went to his room and first words out of his mouth? "I want big surprise!" The kid has an unbelievable memory. This is what we did:

We picked up Zaxbys on the way home for dinner, his favorite. Afterwards we visited with the neighbors and had popsicles in the backyard:

And just to make sure he was extra tired and would sleep the whole night, we painted a homemade birthday card for his friend Bradley's party tomorrow! Let's hope it works:)

Cooking...That's right, I'm a Chef. Don't Laugh.

2011-08-17T11:10:00.001-07:00

It's the start of a new school year and as any teacher knows, it's only logical to divide the school year into August-July, not January-December. So, even though I'm not teaching this year, I am still planning to do 'New Year Resolutions.' Yes, I have two sets of resolutions and no, I usually don't follow through but this time I am going to be diligent! I have several planned in my head but the main thing I am promising myself to get good at is COOKING. In my mind I am a great cook, especially when I cook in my crockpot, which coincidentally I am doing today. If you've eaten the majority of my food, you'd probably disagree (especially if it it came from the crockpot) Anyways, I love to read and usually spend 4-5 hours a month in the library browsing and checking books out. I always check out 1-2 cookbooks and try new recipes. And guess what? They usually suck. I've tried Southern Cooking, Simple meals, 5 ingredients or less, Soups, Pink Ribbon Diet cookbooks, Award Winning Country fair cookbooks, Flavors of the Keys, etc. Nothing great. But in my defense I don't cook the stuff that I KNOW would be delicious (such as the 7 cheese baked macaroni and cheese which sounds to die for) because I don't want anything that fattening being eaten at my house. UNTIL.dun dun dunnn. I checked out an African American cookbook (hopefully that's pc??) and BAM! I am freaking the best chef ever. I tweaked the recipes so far -in cheddar cheese biscuits I used heart healthy flour with red. fat cheese, and in the chickn parm I baked instead of fried with whole wheat bread crumbs and red fat chese- and it came out like I've been cooking (edible food) for years! Who Knew. I would post pictures of my awesome creations but I think there is NOTHING more annoying than when people on facebook put of pictures of their dinner or even tell me their entire menu of their menu. NO. ONE. CARES. ESPECIALLY ME. So, I'll spare you because you probably don't care.
So, in addition to becoming a better cook, I am attempting to get my picky eaterS, yes both of the men in my house, to eat my veggies- hidden. Ryan sees color on his plate and runs. (His mom admitted to me she served him steak and baked potato 4 times a week when he lived with her. Hmm. Explains the aversion to colorful vegetables.
I got the Deceptively Delicious cookbook where you sneak pureed veggies into the book's recipes. 8 ingredients for scrambled eggs? Not happening. So I am coming up with this on my own. I am also trying to 'present' the veggies in a fun, kid way which is supposed to be the secret to getting kids to eat. We'll see how it goes, but that's my plan...

Long and boring but I figured if I wrote it down I'd be more likely to do it.

Also, Random thoughts:

1. Beautiful Taylor Armstrong's husband Russell on RHW OF Bev. Hills died (suicide) on Monday. Weird.
2. I have offically lost 2 marriage certificates.One from the city and one from the Catholic church. How does this happen?
3. I really want to take line dancing lessons..

Ok, this is all.

Mommy and Jackson

2011-08-10T10:32:00.000-07:00

It started to rain yesterday while Jackson was taking his nap. Usually I have a huge list of things to do while he is sleeping and rarely get it done by the time he wakes up so I love nap time..except when it rains. Then I have to force myself not to go into his room and wake him up because I love our new tradition! Everytime it rains, he makes us both hot tea with chocolate chip cookies. Yes, other than me opening the splenda (yes we use splenda, bad mommy i know) and me pouring the milk, he makes the whole thing. We will either sit in the garage with the door open and watch the rain, at his play table and dunk cookies, or, as in yesterday, on the front porch. This was my day after the "hot tea!" was gone:
"Mom! It's raining!!!"

"Can I go play in the rain? Pleaassee??"

"Jackson, why do you want to go out in the rain?"
"I want to dance in the water like this!"

"Hi Mommy!!"

He has the best personality ever and I'm not just saying that because he is mine. He is so funny and just starting to learn to be sarcastic. He also knows that whenever he says, "xcuuussee me" that I will prety much give me whatever he wants.
As soon as the rain dance was over he fell twice, scraping his toes, knees, and elbow. Then my pretty pink tree in the backyard decided to abruptly fall and die after the storm. Sweet moments are short lived!

Jackson's Baptism:)

2011-08-07T14:30:00.000-07:00

Ryan and I finalllyy baptized Jackson yesterday August6th, 2011. We baptized him at St. Joseph's Catholic Church with Father Dan Cody.

Blessing of the Mothers

Blessing of the Fathers

The Bush family with Father Daniel Cody

This is Jackson and his best friend Savannah Sweatt. I am planning for them to get married<3

"He will be a joy and delight to you.."- Luke 1:14

Jackson's Baptism Celebration:)

2011-08-07T14:00:00.001-07:00

After the baptism we invited everyone over to the house to celebrate. We have the BEST friends and are very grateful for those that drove long hours (McGuires thank you!) to come be with us.

Jackson loved the bounce house even though it was so hot inside!

My girlfriends from freshman year of college Sonia and Lori drove an hour and a half to come help us celebrate!

Jackson and his best friend Savannah

Ryan's fraternity brothers

The girlfriends/wives of the Kappa Sigma men

Saying good bye to Kiki (his godfather) before he moves to Tallahassee

The Bush Family 8-6-11

Crazy?

2011-07-30T13:37:00.001-07:00

Would you think I am crazy if I told you a secret little part of me has always wanted to be a missionary in a 3rd world country? I actually began the peace corp application process a few weeks before I met Ryan unbeknownst to anyone. I don't know why I haven't really told people. I met Ryan and have a family so..Life just happened. I have been on several mission trips in the US and although they were amazing and life changing, a little part of me knows one day, I will go to Africa. Crazy yes. Necessary for me? Yes.
My favorite blog of ALL time is kissesforkatie.blogspot.com. I've written about her once before. A beautiful college student from an all american family who one day, dropped out of college, broke up with the love of her life, moved to Uganda. People called her crazy. Her parents fought with her. She is younger than me, and a mommy to 14 little girls from Uganda. People that are dismissed by others come to her door for food, love, and medicine. When I read her blog I cry...because I understand. And Oh how I long to go there.
Yesterday I went to visitingorphans.com and looked at the upcoming mission trips. Of course, Africa is the most expensive but that is just where I know I need to go.( I am hoping this will be my birthday present for my 30th birthday?) I figure if I make it a milestone birthday present and ask Ryan he will say yes. And maybe, just mayybbee will come with me.

3 Year Anniversary!:)

2011-07-25T11:02:00.000-07:00

It's a few weeks late but I never have time to sit down and blog- just way too busy. Still trying to keep at it though for the sake of my own memory!
Ryan and I celebrated our 3rd anniversary 3 weeks ago. I can't believe it's been 3 years!

Our first date:) June 2007

Just engaged!

Our Wedding and all 15 of our guests, us included- 7-3-08

The Bush Family, 4th of July, 2011

We were actually at a family reunion this year on the day of, so on the 4th we went to Jax beach and stayed the night in a hotel. We hung out on the beach and had crablegs and margaritas in mason jars. We then picked out a spot on the beach and watched the fireworks:) Maybe the best anniversary so far;)

Jax Children's Museum

2011-06-30T13:34:00.000-07:00

Last week Jackson and I were driving eachother crazy. A complete mixture of cabin fever, him continually asking me the same question over and over with me thinking 'Quiet kid, Mom's taking a nap'..and then I realized it was 2:30 and there was no way I was going to take a nap with a VERY active 2 year old and my helicoptering mother ways. So after 20 minutes of this failed attempt of napping I packed us up in the car, went to to Starbucks for a pick me up, and drove to the other side of town to play at the kid's museum. It is very old. It was crowded. The parents that were there seemed to have forgot they actually have children because besideS my kid no one else was being supervised. (My biggest pet peeve. Watch your kids people.)Of course, Jackson loved it.

...and lo and behold, he can "slide down pole like big boy."

We're going to party like it's...2005!

2011-06-21T12:49:00.000-07:00

Last weekend was Katie's birthday and we spent it at Jax beach, of course. With our best friends from college, circa 2005. If you could gather a group of people that are complete opposites and yet the same,that would be us. I have too many memories with these people to even begin, most ending with I can't believe we did that or didn't get arrested. Ah college days.
We spent the day at the beach and at the hotel pool. The best picture I had was erased by Jackson of course while he was looking at my camera, but you can get the gist of the weekend by the pics. So much fun!

After the pool, we went to get dinner where we ended up being accused to stealing food, having to pay ( a whole 5 dollars) so we proceeded to eat the food we didnt order and then ordered another plate because it was so good. Of course this is after Chelsea tells the table who accused us , " Snitches get stitches!" We ended our night with 80's dancing and waffle house..just like 2005. Except this time I'm pretty sure we were the oldest at the bar.

I miss our Tuesday night traditions!

Double Dates.

2011-06-21T12:36:00.000-07:00

It is so easy to sit at home and fall into a routine, especially if you have kids. If you are reading this and you have kids you know what I mean. If you are reading this and are married but with no kids and still agree, you are in trouble. It gets 100xs worse when you have a kid trust me. So much effort- babysitter, babysitter notes, did my kid have a nap today so they will be good for the sitter questions,etc- just for a few hours of alone time. But so worth it.
A few weeks ago, Ry and I went on a double date with Jared and Jacki. Just dinner and mini golf. We went to ale house (which randomly we ate there 3 times in one week and ordered the same exact thing- what does that tell you about the Bush house and routines??) and then we went next door and played at the really old mini golf. Jacki remembered playing there when she was a kid! Of course Jared and Ryan were playing so we had to stop at ABC for some whiskey to add to our coke. But hey, it got us there and them to play, so Jacki and I went with it. We had a really, really good time!:)

Jared and Jacki Roche

Definitely need these more often.

Mr. and Mrs. Corley!

2011-06-06T10:24:00.000-07:00

My brother Rick and his fiance Jamie got married on May 29, 2011!! It was the first time my extended family got together in a really long time so I really loved it. We went down a few days early, and took Jack to Silver Springs and Wild Waters, places where I used to go when I was a kid and it was SO much fun! They got married at Jamie's childhood church and then had their reception at a 6th floor restaurant called SKY.

Getting measured for a tux with mom!!

The bride and groom left the church and arrived to the reception in a helicopter!

We had the best time at the reception! And Jackson literally danced the whole night!:)

Congrats Rick and Jamie!

In the last month..

2011-05-18T11:01:00.000-07:00

It's been over a month since I last updated this blog! I'm not even sure if anyone really reads this, I just update it for my own memory for when my sweet baby boy gets older.. He, by the way, is becoming more fun and funny recently. We've been having lots of baby and Mommy dates at the beach...

..which he clearly loves. While standing in the water he will say, "Mommy, I at beach! I have fun!" He is the BEST.

Some other fun/cute/ridiculous things he has been saying recently:

"Dad, give me hug."
"See you in the morning. I have two dreams!"
"Hellllooooo Papoo, How you doin' Papoo?" (on play cell phone"
"Silly Daddy."
"No, 5 minutes." (when it's time to go to bed)
"Mommy, I pee-pee. Change diaper, there's peepee in there!" (Yet he refuses to go on the toilet, and he will ONLY wear big boy underpants when I tell him Judy wears them)
"Mom, Share." (when he wants something I have)
and my possible favorite "Aw, you're too much."

..buuttt of course, everything can't be all rosy with a 2 1/5 year old right?! My once great sleeper has now become an insomniac. The last 5 days in a row Ryan and I have been woken up to "Good Morning! Get Up. Wake Up. I watch Big Bird!" Cute right? Yeah, not at 5 am. 5 days in a row. This does not include the at least once a night I am having to get up in the middle of the night and rock him (for an hour)...day 4 I had a meltdown due to lack of sleep. (Please tell me I am not the only mom who sneaks into my bedroom and hides under my sheets hoping he doesn't find me for a least 5 minutes in the middle of the day??) So day 4 comes..I get up and he is already bouncing off the walls, whiny, won't let mommy fall back asleep on the couch, won't leave my side, and even hs the nerve to expect me to make him breakfast this early because dry cheerios were not cutting it..so finally I have to swing open the bedroom door and yell to a soundly sleeping husband, "This is it!!! I will not have any more kids! He WILL be an only child!" Ahh the Bush household. Lovely.

In other good news though, I have become a legit deal finder.In a week and a half, these are my deals:
1.) I have been trying to make recipes out of this country veggie cookbook (with a husband who does not like vegetables) and didn't like spending $3.50 on one pepper at Publix. So I went to Walmart (where I usually buy most pantry staples) and everytime they do not have the exact ingredients I need. So rounded up Me, Jackson, Ryan, and our friends Josh and Heather and went to the Riverside Farmer's Market. Wow! Let me just tell you- for $10 bucks I got: 7 sweet potatoes, enough cherry tomatoes to equal two plastic cherry containers, 2 huge peppers, 4 zuchini and 4 squash, and enough green beans to fill a colander. And to think last May I spent $50 dollars on a home garden that literally grew 2 cherry tomatoes. The next night we had steak and veggie kabobs and last night I made veggie lasagna. Yum!
2.) I have been trying to buy two big/long cherry wood shelves for Jackson's room but the cheapest I could find were $44 each, which I refuse to spend. So after looking around, albeit for a few months, I came across two unfinished shelves at Hobby Lobby, 50% off so they were 6.50 each. I then bought a certain acrylic green paint that matches his room and painted them myself. I had to use two things of paint per shelf, which was fine because the paint was only 58 cents each!! I will post some pictures once his entire big boy room is done.
3.)And my BIG deal was Monday at Michaels. For $21 dollars, I got..7 scrapbooks. Yes,7! They were on clearance for $2.99. Whoo!!

Ok have to run, because who has decided he refuses to nap today!? Everyday I must say "LOrd, Give me patience.."at least 5 times! Ha!

It's Official.

2011-04-14T11:55:00.000-07:00

Beginning when I was five, I knew and told everyone I wanted to be a teacher. I would line my teddy bears, Barbies, and dolls up and teach them from my chalkboard easel. When I was in elementary school and played 'school' with the neighborhood kids, I was ALWAYS the teacher. I was more excited to go shopping for school supplies than school clothes. (Seriously, who doesn't love the smell of brand new Crayolas??) And then after 5 long years of internships, paperwork, and mock lesson plans, I did it. I graduated from college and I became a teacher.

The first time I ever walked into my own classroom, I arranged the desks, dusted the book shelves...and cried.Have you ever been so proud of yourself, you just cried? Not only did I finally become a teacher, and a good one at that, but I was the first person in my family to graduate from college. I made it.

I will forever hold my first year teaching in my heart. Yes, I had great lessons, met great coworkers, and perfected my classroom management. But I also created some deep and lasting relationships with students that I will never forget.They still text me, email me, and facebook me with questions and events going on their lives. (Yes text and facebook, I know in 'our' day that would be unthinkable. Get with the times.) Of course there were some bad days, we're talking hormonal 11 and 12 year olds, but truly I loved my job. I could not think of another thing I could ever possibly want to do.

And then.....I became a mommy.

And my world changed. Everything I thought was important..wasn't. Thus began an intense mental conflict that no one warns you about. Do I stay home? Do I go to work? Is it faIr for my husband to pay my student loans while I am not working? Yes, I thought this was an easy decision before I had kids too. But you will see. Not so clear cut.

This year I was lucky enough to have the opportunity to stay home. I have filled our days with playdates, zoo trips, homeschool activities, the beach, museums, cooking, nature walks, feeding the birds/fish/anything that will eat stale bread, visiting family, reading books, watching MeMe Mouse and WooHa (Toy Story 2), Gymboree, painting, gardening, visiting the neighbors, keeping Chik Fil A in buisness, storytime at multiple locations,library trips, and as many festivals as possible. What a wonderful and special year for me. The mental conflict slowly quieted down.

Then two weeks ago I received an email from my boss asking to come back to work. I was given a few pretty sweet incentives...and after a week of back and forth discussions, a loud and not a loud, Ryan and I both decided it's best for all of us to stay home another year. This was tough for me. I was not just a teacher for most of my kids who come from the 'projects' and broken homes.I was much more than that.

But, my own child comes first. I know this is the right thing for me and my family. I will have plenty of years to work when the time comes, as many people like to remind me. And recently I read an article about parenting that said, "The days are long, but the years are short."

Next week I am putting Jackson on the waitlist for kindergarten. Yes, the years are short and I am so lucky to spend the time I do with 'Action.'

Just some MORE things going on....

2011-04-07T14:54:00.000-07:00

Yup. My computer is ancient so now pictures won't even upload from my camera. Hopefully getting a new one soon- for now I'll just have to post sans just for my own memories:)

Ryan and I are finally making some changes to yard. He took off last week to work/possibly lay sod/etc but of course it stormed like crazy here in Jax so we took a last minute "staycation." Yes I hate that word but we actually had a really good time. He told me to take him to do all the fun stuff I do with my mom group- which I found cute and really funny. So Thursday, amongst the thunder, lightning, pelting rain and even hail..we set off for the zoo! We looked on the scanner and it seemed pretty clear in N. Jax so we took off. We got there and what do you know- barely sprinkling! There was one school there and maybe 5 other families so we pretty much had the place to ourselves. I have gone to this zoo TONS of time but this was a pretty cool experience because ALL of the animals were acting differently with the dark sky and loud thunder. We were there the whole afternoon and had such a great time! Ryan's favorite part is the Austrailian aviary and the last few times we have gone we haven't had time to go to it. While we were walking up to the door, he realizes it's locked. He automatically says, "What?! This is bullcrap!" and guess what little man yells in response- "BULLCRAP!" Ahh, so we're at the stage of language censorship.

On Friday I took them both to Pump It Up, a possible venue for 3rd birthday party!!! (How is he almost 3? Seriously. No Seriously.)Ryan had more fun than Jackson and the older boys that were there were going crazy over Ryan's attention playing guns with them. And I? Oh you know, just doing the usual and getting hurt at childrens' establishments. Still have a wound going down my back.

On Saturday I took Jackson to Mandarin Park to play and see the boats. And was put in a position where you always think you know what you would do but then it actually happens and you reconsider?? Staying home with J I usually go to places during the week, ie all Dads are at work, so I really only see Dads at the park on the weekends, which I rarely go on Sat or Sun because now I am spoiled and like it to be empty. Anyway, Jackson and I are walking around and I see a bunch of dads, and just think 'awe thats cute.' So, we are walking around the bathroom and all of a sudden I hear irrate screaming, silence, then a kid screaming bloody murder. So of course I stand there waiting for this guy to come out so I can let him know I heard him hit his kid and he should be a shamed of himself. As he is walking out with a 4 yd old, blood red face from crying and pretty much limping on one foot, the dad says," Keep on crying and I'll spank you again." Uh nice logic 'Dad'. So what 4 yd old do you know that would stop crying after that?? So the dad drags the kid back in by the arm and again, screaming, silence, crying. But this point I am so angry and flabberghasted I can't say anything right away because I have to be careful what I say in front of my own kid so I needed to calm down. So they come out of the bathroom and the poor kid, still trying the get Dad's loving attention, while crying, says, "Daddy look, a catepillar." The dad responds with, " Oh so what. Grow Up. Go play." Ohhhhh boy, blood is boiling now!!!! Remember- I said he was about 4? Way to miss the teaching momemt Pops.

So...after I calm down, Ryan arrives after getting lost even though he's been to this park at least 5 times, I have to say something. If you know me, do you really think I was going to let that go?! I walk by the mom and say, "I would NEVER, EVER, let someone hit my child like that. I can't believe some people hitting their kid." Mom does not even bat an eye. Poor kid.

Ok after THAT ridiculous episode, we stopped at Sonny's for lunch and I headed to Ocala the next day. I visited with fam, took Jackson and Emma to Chuckie Cheese, and then drove to St. Pete with AM on Monday to surprise visit my mom for her bday. I took lots of pictures for the family scrapbook I am making. Oh did I not mention? My new career while I stay home is writer and scrapbook extraordinare. Yes, I said writer. Being watching your book stores.

We came home a day early and today met up with Uncle Kiki (Judy) for the library and lunch. Finally I have a library partner that's older than 2- whoo!

Ok last thing. Jackson is seriously funny. Not because he is my kid, but just ridiculous. Examples:

Me : "Ok buddy, in 5 minutes we're going to bed."
J: "No ten. Ten minutes." while holding up 2 fingers.
_____

Me: "Ok do you want to go potty on the big boy potty?"
j: "Oh Lordy."

Ahh there's quite a few more but I have to go actually take care of him:) Hopefully pictures soon!

Just some going ons...

2011-03-28T10:22:00.001-07:00

I haven't been on here in a while, so lots to catch up. We've been super busy... like always! Jackson has become quite the little negotiator. We've been playing outside with the nice weather so I usually give him a popsicle when we come in. He always says, without fail, "No Mom. Two popsicles." Of course I can't say no to my baby. Except when the conversation goes like one we had last week:

Me: "Jackson?"
J: "What?"
Me: "No, when Mommy calls you, you need to answer with a yes or ma'am."
J: "No, Jackson say what."

Ha! Yes, 2 going on 20. Already. I can at least still correct him without cracking a smile even when he is being funny. Ryan has no chance- he has to turn around so he won't catch him laughing.

We are finally starting to change up the yard a bit. I replanted some areas of flowers, pulled up a few things, and am trying to talk Ryan into pouring a slab of concrete but he's not going for it. This week we are hoping to pull out a few trees and bushes and make room for an orange tree. We hired a lawn company to come and spray this year (even though I am still not really comfortable with the chemicals in our yard) before we decide what to do about the grass.

Ryan has been out of town this past weekend. Jackson and I went to a few different parks, out to eat, and church. I really miss the Methodist church, it's so different than Catholic, and my childhood pastor that married us is now at a church in Jacksonville so I like to go as much as I can. We went to the mission trip garage sale on Saturday and service on Sunday. He did good during the opening songs and announcements but then had to be taken to the nursery. My over-protectiveness is coming back to haunt me because now I can't just drop him off, I have to stay because of his shyness. So we stayed for 3 hours in the nursery- yes, 3 hours! I got to visit with Amy, my pastor's wife and ah- such sweet memories of Druid Hills, the church in Ocala where I grew up. I would love for Jackson to have those type of memories with the PEOPLE of the church. In the Methodist church, people will make it a point to come say hello to you before you even get to the pew. In ALL of the times we have been to the Catholic church, guess how many have come up to us and introduced themselves? Not. One. I don't think the Catholic church is "bad" I just prefer the Methodist way of conversing with one another.

Ryan was in NOLA picking up furniture for our guest room, so yes, after a year and a half, we now have a full bedroom set in the guestroom. We actually have too much furniture now, but it's all nice- real cherrywood, so we are trying to figure a way to work it all in. We also got a little desk for Jackson's room so I am moving out the changing table. And speaking of the changing table, I am getting really tired of the diapers and pacifer. I am just going to cold turkey quit both one day soon. I though maybe by August before preschool, but now maybe sooner, like next week. I am just being lazy and don't want to have to battle the public bathrooms. Gross.

On a different note, we have always been big recyclers at our house. A few days ago while going through a stack of papers to be recycled, I came across a magazine a had thrown aside and read an article on "Precycling." I had never really though about it but it is now going to be part of our home's routine. I know Ryan will be thrilled. Precycling is buying items in the grocery store that doesn't have excessive wrapping so you will have less trash to even be recycled. Such as, why buy 20 yogurts, like we do, when you can buy one big one and use small plastic containers for work lunches? See, this is what happens when I actually have a calm day and have time to think. I tell Ryan I am 'revolutionizing our household' but he just gets annoyed. I have also decided after the box of ziploc bags we have runs out we will not be buying more because we will use plastic containers. I know he is definitely going to be happy about that- ha! We are pretty addicted to our paper towels, napkins, and ziploc bags so this will definitely be a big adjustment! I even thought about buying block cheese instead of sliced but if you know us and how much our kid and dog likes cheese- yes, we HAVE gone through 24 slices..in one day..- then you know I would be asking for a death wish! HA!

Another thing we do recycle is the newspaper. We recently got a subsription and if you don't have one you NEED to get one! I love reading it in the morning with my coffee and catching on my current events. If I don't read one day of it I feel so behind in the world. I also have been into couponing with the coupons in Sunday's paper. I am not an "extreme couponer" I don't have the time or patience or that, and I can barely get through one shopping trip without a 2 year old meltdown (In Walmart he wants chips from Subway, and in Publix he wants a lotto ticket. Yup. A lotto ticket.) So after about 3 months of using an actual coupon binder and cutting coupons, I finally have worked out out what is best for our family. I use coupons and shop at Walmart. I used to be the person who would get annoyed when I was stuck behind someone at the register who was digging for their coupons, no more my friend. I have seen their worth! Also, did you know that according to some research, it was in the newspaper so obviously it was true :) , that something like 75% of coupon users are college educated stay at home moms? Hmm. I love saving money- I'd rather use my extra money on vacays than at the grocery!

This week we have lots of plans for the house and yard and then J and I are going to visit the fam in Ocala. We are going to order his ring bearer tux for my brother's wedding. I can't wait to see him in a tux- with tails! So cute!!!

Just like his momma..

2011-03-14T08:34:00.000-07:00

It is so easy to be lazy when you stay home with your kids. You can easily stay at the house, play in the backyard, and not leave for days. Well, at least I cane. So last week I decided to surprise Jackson when he woke up from his nap and do somehting fun! We stopped at Chik Fil A and picked up the new Banana Pudding Milkshakes and went to go play on the beach. As soon as he rounded the boardwalk and saw the beach, he he took off running!

Jackson loves the seagulls, and yes I am one of those people that feed them so my kid will have fun even though I make the others on the beach annoyed!

The boy loves the beach, just like his momma!

Some Favorites.

2011-03-05T18:43:00.000-08:00

We've been really busy lately. Playdates. Zoo trips. Spur of the moment quality time ideas. Planning vacations. Birthday dinners.Baby showers. Gardening. House Renovations. Helping my brother set up his engagement- whoo!!!:) Welcome to the family Jamie- he proposed today! Doing things that make a family family. I am currently in Ocala visiting and am on Kristen's computer. I am in desperate need of a new computer and haven't been able to post pictures, so I thought I would add some of my own favs from hers to keep the blog colorful. There is no order whatsoever, just some favorites of mine.

Jackson's First Nursery- I spent hours rocking him on that chair, letting the fountain sing both of us to sleep.

Our entire wedding- families and pastor on Jax Bch. I insisted on the beach picture, only to have waves run up and ruin shoes. But I loved it and it's the bride's day. Right?!

Our wedding day, July 3, 2008

My college graduation, May 2007- so proud of myself on this day. And yes, you are allowed to be proud of yourself, that's what life is about.

This stage seriously went by in seconds.I don't even remember him looking like this!

The Bush Family, 3 days old. I remember feeling and thinking I was SO skinny.Ha.

My baby shower for Jackson, 2008. So strange to see my body stretched liked that!

Ryan and I had to actually sit down two nights ago and compare our planners.How does life do that? We have every weekend booked with no end in sight. Some weekends are all fun (like next,can't wait:)) and some planned strictly for work on house and yard. I can't wait to plant an orange tree in the back to make fresh OJ in the morning for breakfast (and mimosas??) and replant pretty flowers in the front since I am the queen of killing all plants and last year's died. I often think, "Who am I!?" Since when do I garden? Like cooking? Wanting to eat fresh, organic,healthy only foods? Here are more points as to why I question this daily:

Kristen is going on a cruise to Mexico next week.My first response is not telling her how much fun it is going to be, it is disbelief and questioning the parents if they watch the news? Do they not know the unrest- drugs, war, trafficking-that is going on over there? Anndddd then, I remember the version of me that wouldn't think twice of walking around a foreign country (albeit Bahamas) by myself...in the dark. Most likely intoxicated.

And today we went to the BBQ bash in the villages. I almost didn't have a margarita because no one else was drinking. Since when do I care?

Ok, just some pictures and thoughts. Oh, I went to AH last night with a group that included Ashley and Nicole. I am so happy to have friends that I don't see for weeks and then just pick up right where we left off like we had just seem eachother yesterday. Laughter and Laughter the whole night. The best!

Valentine's Day Weekend!

2011-02-16T15:53:00.000-08:00

My computer is not letting my upload all of the pictures I want and so I only ended up with these two.. I had a great weekend! On Friday my college room mate Sonia came to visit me and I have been dying to see her since she moved! We went to lunch at Al's for old times sake and then to the mall to occupy Jackson while we caught up. I have really missed her! In college we would always order a 16 piece sicilian pizza and not think twice about eating almost every bite. Now we ordered half of that and still tried to be healthy by adding spinach- ha! On Saturday I was finally able to get a lazy day and do things around the house. I hung out in my pjs most of the day with Jackson and did some of my to- do list. On Sunday, Ryan, Judy, Jackson and I met my parents in St. Augustine and walked around the town. I have been here a million times but it will never get old to me! We ate at my favorite place, Scarlett O'Haras and got some delicious coffee from Kenya! Everytime I open my pantry I want a cup of coffee no matter what time of day it is!
For Valentine's day I got a delivery of 3 dozen roses from Ryan! It was very thoughtful of him and they are looking beautiful on our dining room table- I took a great picture but of course this is one that won't upload. I have always known I am so much like an old lady, but man I am really old these days. I refused to fight Valentine's Day dinner crowds so we just ate at home. Judy came over and I made some healthy stuff since we are all trying to be healthy. Jackson loved seeing Kiki so it was a good night for everyone!
The weather is finally getting nice so Jackson and I headed out into the backyard yesterday afternoon for almost 2 hours straight! I laid out a towel and we looked at the clouds, squirrels, birds, trees, etc. It as been years since I have done that!
Jackson hanging out back with Mommy

Our very pretty pink tree!

We also checked out this BEAUTIFUL blooming tree that is outside of our dining room and Jackson's bedroom. We know it's a type of Magnolia tree but not sure what kind?

Today we met Robin and her two boys Matthew and Sammy, and Amy and her son Bradley to play at Chik Fil A. The boys wore Jackson out and he had a 3 hour nap so I got to clean my office, start dinner, and cut coupons. I am determined I will master them!

All over..

2011-02-10T12:42:00.001-08:00

This blog is going to be random and all over this place, sorry no pictures. I think I might even just list is since it's just an assortment of thoughts.

1. I took Jackson to his 2nd dental exams today- he was a little champ. He's been a big fan of 'American History X-ing' himself- first the coffee table and now our headboard. He was jumping on the bed- I know bad mommy- and took a chunk out of the cherry wood with his front teeth. I even had to pull wood out with tweezers behind his front teeth! The xrays are looking good so far.

2. Today I met a second person who's kid is my dog's name. It takes everything in me to not say, "Ohh that's cute I have a dog with that name." This time it was my current dog Wyatt (morbidly obese and I don't care).

3. My college room mate is coming to visit me tomorrow- whoo I can't wait to see Sonia!!!

4. The Bush Fam is going GREEN!! I read a blog 3 days about about this girl who is married and with a son the same exact age as Jack. She was writing about how stressed she and her husband are when their house isn't clean and organized and what they did about it. If you have ever stayed home from work you know how quickly you become severe OCD about your house (I literally just cleaned the bathroom for the 3rd time this week). Apparently I am the last to know but most stay at home mothers have "home binders" with calendars, cleaning schedules, budget stuff, ideas, recipes, etc. They keep this binder on the counter and check off what they did each day.I thought this was a cute idea,for organization's sake, for about 30 minutes while I tried to make one. Then I realized I will never use it, put it on my counter, check stuff off, mostly because it means more work and we are way to busy going places. So I did make a one calendar on my desk with which days I need to clean things. This helps me not try to clean everything everyday- unfortunately I was turning into that person- and lets me spend more time with Jackson without thinking about housework I could be doing. That night I was organizing a stack of books and came across the BEST BOOK EVER which I highly think every woman should read, it's called "Salt, Lemons, Vinegar, and Baking Soda"by Shea Zudowski and it had hunddreeedsss of recipes of how to clean things with just these ingredients. Cheap, green, easy- I'll do it!! I went to Walmart today and bought these 4 things in bulk to try it out tonight. And the book only cost me 6 buckss at Barnes and NOble!

Crooked River Vacation:)

2011-02-08T08:22:00.000-08:00

Ryan and I went on vacation last weekend with our friends Josh, Heather, and their puppy Abby. I tried to upload more pictures but I seriously need a new computer and they are taking way too long, maybe I will try to add some to fbook. Anyway, we had so much fun! Originally we picked out a cabin the mountains but decided the drive just wasn't worth it for two nights. I found this cabin on Crooked River in Georgia and we stayed there. It is actually a state park, in which Ryan was soley concerned about alcohol, but we were able to bring it because we were spending the night. We rented a two bedroom cabin on the river and at the edge of the wood's trail and it was cute! The dining room window and porch with rocking chairs had a beautiful view of the river!

We got there on Friday and Heather and I started the trails while the boys drank and started dinner. We woke up on Saturday and had a big breakfast, walked trails, rode bikes, and played mini golf. By the time we finished the last trail on Sunday we walked almost 10 miles! Ryan and I have never excercised that amount of time together..ever! We decided from now on our vacations have to have some physical activity!

Ryan and Heather on the banks of Crooked River

Ryan and I hiked down to the water's edge...

Heather, Josh, and their puppy Abby

Ryan in the Marsh, follwing a pair of bobcat footoprints- Heather and I heard "renegade or feral" hogs but the only actual wildlife we saw besides the usual was an armadillo that hung out by the cabin. Once we heard the hog though, we were armed with a buckknife and pink pepper spray! Ha!

The cabin was only an hour away and we had such a great time! We went to Dicks Wings on Sunday before heading home and picked out our next two vacation spots at Georgia State Parks. We are pretty stuck (Ok maybe I am and force Ryan) on my bed and breakfasts but I think cabins in the woods are moving on up there!:)

Playdate Catch Up!

2011-02-03T13:49:00.000-08:00

Courtney and Savannah came over tp play in the backyard on Monday. I took no pictures but we played and feed the fish. On Tuesday, Jackson and I met Savannah and Courtney, Johanna, Ana and Cecilia at PBK for storytime. Everytime we go he seems to enjoy it but I think the lady needs to be much more lively- we're talking 2 and 3 yr olds here and even my adult attention can't be kept with her. I also pretty much try to redecorate Jackson's room everytime I go in there.

After story time, we went to Crisper's for lunch- they have an easy kids room in the back that lets the moms and kids be as loud as they want and not bother other customers.

Big discussions with Ana and Savannah

Jackson and Ana walked like this from Crisper's back to the car- Seriously, how cute?!

Grandma came last night to watch the baby for our weekend vacation with Josh and Heather this weekend- whoo!

Guess who loves baseball?!

2011-01-30T17:31:00.000-08:00

I took Jackson to a softball (baseball to him) game today to cheer on our friends Bobo, Josh, and Heather. We went to Ed Austin park, which was much prettier than I thought it would be, and sat with Kristen in the stands to cheer! I was in complete shock but Jackson was attentive the entire time! He sat and watched the game and yelled, "Bobo!" from time to time. Ryan and I will definitely bring him to more games now around town!

After the game we all met at Jason's Deli for lunch and it was so good- I haven't had it in such a long time. We ate wit Josh and Heather, Bobo, Kristen, Judy, and Zach and Kelsey.

Jackson and I watching the game!

St. Augustine Day!

2011-01-29T17:15:00.000-08:00

Jackson has been on antibiotics and feeling better so we decided to take a day trip to St. Augustine with our friends. We went with Aunt Kristen, Jacki and Jared, Heather and Josh, and our friend Michael (aka Bobo). We met early in the morning and had a quick breakfast at Cracker Barrel. We got to the historic part of St. Augustine and started our shopping day. I was on a mission to find ceramic handpainted drawer pulls for the guest bedroom closet I am renovating and went from wanting "Mexican" pulls to "Country" pulls and found the cutest pair! We went to everyone's favorite stores and even though I had to talk Ryan into going he actually bought more things (or treasures as I call them)than I did. Here are some fun pictures of the day:

We stopped at the fountain to let Jackson throw coins in, here are the girls searching for extra pennies. Thanks to Jacki for the good idea of turning in quarters for pennies:)

Aunt Kristen and Jackson

The Bush Family

The boys stopped at Stogies for a cigar and beer : Jared, Ryan, Josh, and Bobo.

While Jacki and I went to my favorite store Around the World and a sidewalk art show, the boys found this hot sauce shop. They had sauces with chips and meatballs in a crockpot to try the different spices. They spent so much time trying all the sauces and...

Here is Bobo after having the hottest sauce they own! He was in pain but got a sticker for it!!:)

We had lunch at Cruisers, got ice cream, and got some treats for the dogs at Paradise Pooch- yes our dog is already described as 'morbidly obese' by our vet but we love giving him treats! and headed home. While I was putting Jackson to bed, Ryan ran to Publix and got me a milkshake and two new gossip magazines while he was picking up dinner.

I love great Saturdays!

Clarks.

2011-01-27T14:30:00.000-08:00

Ryan and I started a tradition of going to new places to eat (besides vacations, eating out if our favorite hobby apparently) whenever his parents came to visit while they watched Jackson. We've tried New Orleans Cafe (good, but Ryan's cooking is better) Red Elephant (their homemade ranch is soooo yummy!) and this time we switched it up a bit. We've been to Clark's Fish Camp numerous times but Judy has never been so we took him for his first time. Of course the pic with him actually in it wouldn't upload..so here is one of Ryan and I! As much as I LOVE to 'document' is as much as Ryan hates it. We love Clarks! (But I am NOT a fan of some of the taxi. animals- under no circumstances should giraffes be shot!!!)

Ryan and I <3

Cabin Fever Round 2!

2011-01-26T09:47:00.000-08:00

We are in the middle of cabin fever round 2 with a very sick baby! He has double ear infections and an upper resp. virus so I am updating the blog during the litle time I have while he sleeps..so this means a post with not pictures, I know, boring, but I still wanted to update for my own memory. We have been working like crazy renovating the house. We replaced the carpet in 2 of the bedrooms and it has made such a difference! I also (yes, I as in me and by myself!) took down almost all of the doors, repainted them bright white, changed the hinges and doorknobs to satin nickel, and painted the trim to match. I have a few more doors to do but have to wait until Ryan's parents come back in town to watch Jackson so I can finish. I have been doing all of this work in the driveway and it has taken double the time because all of the neighbors come over with glasses of wine and want to chit chat. I think they are shocked to see a woman doing all of this work! Ha! Atleast that's what I keep telling Ryan:)I think I know my way around Lowe's with my eyes closed by now..

Another huge thing that happened this month so far- Ryan passed the CFP exam and is now Ryan Bush, CFP, CRPC. I am so proud of him! It makes me want to add some letters behind my name:) We had a bbq the weekend we found out he and our good friend Jared Roche passed and had some friends over. I have great pictures to show but they aren't uploaded yet..My little sister Kristen came to visit that weekend and we went shopping in St. Augustine and then had fun at the BBQ.

Last weekend Ryan and I took Judy (Uncle Christian) to Clark's Fish camp, one of our favorite restaurants. He loved it and we can't wait to take Jackson when it warms up. The 3 of us were supposed to go kayaking last weekend (my Christmas present to them)but it got moved to March because of the weather.

Next weekend we are taking a short vacation with our friends Josh and Heather for an early Valentine's Day trip. I am trying to add in a bed and breakfast somewhere in there, but we'll see;)

I don't want to share too many details on this yet, but we are definitely getting Jackson baptized within the next few months:) Can't wait!!! I already have the invites picked out and the whole invite/colors/party will be white and gold!

And lastly, after yesterday's monsoon we had to get out this morning and took a short walk to the pond in our neighborhood to feed the ducks. I saw something in the water and at first assumed it was a tire and but then saw some ears so I walked closer..and it was a baby black bear that drowned in the water:( How sad! I didn't let Jackson see and we walked to a different pond but I hated it!

Okay, hopefully the next post has pics and is alittle more fun!