tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6315133646061439182024-03-19T04:11:29.455-07:00Are We That Lame?jer_z_chickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01615140919574974483noreply@blogger.comBlogger85125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-631513364606143918.post-51309394825231096452017-08-15T08:22:00.000-07:002017-08-15T08:22:06.317-07:00First Birthday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfLGmjqrYvWZBxV4Yaw5fEZjd-pr30gGzAMhssL2joaxdUA9nUUpPAiLP__Hj9sDiuoqv7oRSdHTzhMyoZVkb6o7OmwbvE8EkI6iBxW3aS29pDMpiEwyun_OxzRMzdBfMXpvlpMrxRbazG/s1600/IMG_6135.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfLGmjqrYvWZBxV4Yaw5fEZjd-pr30gGzAMhssL2joaxdUA9nUUpPAiLP__Hj9sDiuoqv7oRSdHTzhMyoZVkb6o7OmwbvE8EkI6iBxW3aS29pDMpiEwyun_OxzRMzdBfMXpvlpMrxRbazG/s1600/IMG_6135.JPG" /></a></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
Ashton turned one on Wednesday. An entire year has passed since I sheepishly went into the hospital, not really knowing why but feeling <i>off</i>. Those first few days in the hospital had me anxious to get out and get home to be with my family. There were many nights when I didn't sleep enough. There was a lot of frustration over balancing my attention between a newborn, toddler, and husband. Not to mention time to myself. We adjusted though. It wasn't always graceful. In fact, I remember a lot of yelling and tears. I remember so many tender moments too though - countless hours nursing, rocking, cuddling, and kissing that boy. Oh man, the kisses!</div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
The greatest thing about this year has been really getting to know Ashton though. He's our wild child - fearless and curious. He's climbing everything in sight and always ready to go. He claps and smiles. He knows when he's about to do something he shouldn't and laughs or smirks when you tell him to stop. He's saying a ton (but mostly baby babble). Mostly he's asking "whatsat?" or he wants to go "ouside".</div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
I love him fiercely and know it'll just grow as I get to know him more.</div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQEnFggCvOKGvQmu0e920stxO0tWjbeWjYLmelPnlRr_UZ3mYbKiaSmscJrcyB3tSbVnR3BJHKphVkzyLv_K65p0-kk7tEobmGY8ZSsO8vrQjACeLriu6iGU62Uk_KiugjEhhDYZ8XBhM1/s1600/IMG_6090.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQEnFggCvOKGvQmu0e920stxO0tWjbeWjYLmelPnlRr_UZ3mYbKiaSmscJrcyB3tSbVnR3BJHKphVkzyLv_K65p0-kk7tEobmGY8ZSsO8vrQjACeLriu6iGU62Uk_KiugjEhhDYZ8XBhM1/s1600/IMG_6090.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgstj3AHVTGtb9bKzNh_3Pr_9WN88lYsycFizaUCAx8856DminISp7G9N5j1t3BJLjWzxlz3jPQQiujTFVtJmziIdgeygDROUZtQ6nCcaRnJJYmnnqKMBVmOnzifD1fUMqKNThm0BlvDr3S/s1600/IMG_6133.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1068" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgstj3AHVTGtb9bKzNh_3Pr_9WN88lYsycFizaUCAx8856DminISp7G9N5j1t3BJLjWzxlz3jPQQiujTFVtJmziIdgeygDROUZtQ6nCcaRnJJYmnnqKMBVmOnzifD1fUMqKNThm0BlvDr3S/s1600/IMG_6133.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ_qeaFml0DZVlXYdR8EkO2chmxw0ytMsrmuXixQP2urKulmwTd5v-D6EB-QriZmN2pGBSBhBQ7LQw_wKA0_bz8l0LwKPMLae2r2URQMvLSyBU_A5N3t2hDCd0Bi42Ai7vPHZIxs5v8h3Z/s1600/IMG_6190.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ_qeaFml0DZVlXYdR8EkO2chmxw0ytMsrmuXixQP2urKulmwTd5v-D6EB-QriZmN2pGBSBhBQ7LQw_wKA0_bz8l0LwKPMLae2r2URQMvLSyBU_A5N3t2hDCd0Bi42Ai7vPHZIxs5v8h3Z/s1600/IMG_6190.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr5zbO15KlrO4FH4BkABuMYoIZBH0UjENUZBQCSRro8w1eXrSx9kqS6TZyFEP3xNUW0PgFD3AQYQhdDaAYkbqFeCybeSUrvS4f-DrXvJDEQEcaxujzsEq_ICFFAL79MJoiOlUPSKbo5Yn7/s1600/IMG_6306c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr5zbO15KlrO4FH4BkABuMYoIZBH0UjENUZBQCSRro8w1eXrSx9kqS6TZyFEP3xNUW0PgFD3AQYQhdDaAYkbqFeCybeSUrvS4f-DrXvJDEQEcaxujzsEq_ICFFAL79MJoiOlUPSKbo5Yn7/s1600/IMG_6306c.jpg" /></a></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
jer_z_chickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01615140919574974483noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-631513364606143918.post-83656953234414486762016-10-17T17:45:00.000-07:002016-10-17T17:45:17.108-07:00Berry Picking<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KtrdoS78EFg/V8SXn4AjrDI/AAAAAAAAXdM/cSteAri25d4PD08508Om_ZE0sL89Us_JQCPcB/s1600/IMG_4824.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KtrdoS78EFg/V8SXn4AjrDI/AAAAAAAAXdM/cSteAri25d4PD08508Om_ZE0sL89Us_JQCPcB/s1600/IMG_4824.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
We went berry picking exactly one month before Ashton's arrival and I just never got around to posting it. And OH MAN, look at Cohen! I think this was just before Nathan cut Cohen's hair and got rid of the awesome long part in the front (I was so upset when he did it) and he just looks to different to me here. He looks so young! How could he change so much in just a few months?<br />
<br />
Anyway, we found a farm not too far from home and got to picking! I was heavily pregnant, and basically dragged my body along the rows. Cohen would run back and forth between us, having the time of his life. It was a tough day for Nathan, as his ankle was still healing. The day was great though, and Cohen and I both ate a ton :)<br />
<br />
Some adorable baby (or so he seems to me) photos of Cohen below!<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7ZP2wQOdUrw/V8SXmtLtCJI/AAAAAAAAXdM/TTszFkapnaMEEBAwkOE_bzZkZ5HU4lHhgCPcB/s1600/IMG_4787.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7ZP2wQOdUrw/V8SXmtLtCJI/AAAAAAAAXdM/TTszFkapnaMEEBAwkOE_bzZkZ5HU4lHhgCPcB/s1600/IMG_4787.JPG" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Eating pizza in the car. Guhh, look at those eyes.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-X6EKXGWloBU/V8SXo3xBdpI/AAAAAAAAXdM/vAhwSnGXoJYEhaKPwd3CaKxc6YPSunBGwCPcB/s1600/IMG_4792.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-X6EKXGWloBU/V8SXo3xBdpI/AAAAAAAAXdM/vAhwSnGXoJYEhaKPwd3CaKxc6YPSunBGwCPcB/s1600/IMG_4792.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dT29X6eKOzY/V8SXnNMOwlI/AAAAAAAAXdM/Li_VpdoLfjkYxqYdOYOnxSheveBXZX0BQCPcB/s1600/IMG_4803.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dT29X6eKOzY/V8SXnNMOwlI/AAAAAAAAXdM/Li_VpdoLfjkYxqYdOYOnxSheveBXZX0BQCPcB/s1600/IMG_4803.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-y1bNvlvtDYA/V_eNUvow4HI/AAAAAAAAYIw/bZjOy5q6nvovlKjkpdo-DfzQNCsQMwHngCPcB/s1600/IMG_4827.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-y1bNvlvtDYA/V_eNUvow4HI/AAAAAAAAYIw/bZjOy5q6nvovlKjkpdo-DfzQNCsQMwHngCPcB/s1600/IMG_4827.JPG" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I do really miss that hair!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FP2v9DF9ncA/V8SXqj7FsAI/AAAAAAAAXdM/yynFhPIv1YcjLCVThhP8QQbhzVM72QnGACPcB/s1600/IMG_4842.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FP2v9DF9ncA/V8SXqj7FsAI/AAAAAAAAXdM/yynFhPIv1YcjLCVThhP8QQbhzVM72QnGACPcB/s1600/IMG_4842.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-y17h9YoCOLE/V8SXpmRwGiI/AAAAAAAAXdM/6eZpxzLTq5A-95zzRHKnYgBi4LGds6jPACPcB/s1600/IMG_4845.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-y17h9YoCOLE/V8SXpmRwGiI/AAAAAAAAXdM/6eZpxzLTq5A-95zzRHKnYgBi4LGds6jPACPcB/s1600/IMG_4845.JPG" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Notice the colour of the strawberry in his hand. We constantly had to sort through the berries he was putting in our baskets. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-B6XtYUSPbKs/V_dRJcuo8fI/AAAAAAAAYII/CO9R38XkuZQWE1GpmgVtnA7pGj5d-55WACPcB/s1600/IMG_4846.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-B6XtYUSPbKs/V_dRJcuo8fI/AAAAAAAAYII/CO9R38XkuZQWE1GpmgVtnA7pGj5d-55WACPcB/s1600/IMG_4846.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-snOnslsGtK4/V_b0TITiqMI/AAAAAAAAYGI/_z-6jfApicsx-SAYovff_Yfkt5q-Wz9SwCPcB/s1600/IMG_4849.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-snOnslsGtK4/V_b0TITiqMI/AAAAAAAAYGI/_z-6jfApicsx-SAYovff_Yfkt5q-Wz9SwCPcB/s1600/IMG_4849.JPG" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">That mess though :)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />jer_z_chickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01615140919574974483noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-631513364606143918.post-47040890483056516422016-09-29T08:21:00.001-07:002016-10-01T10:07:59.669-07:00Baby Boy (again)!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3qziIlPEReU/V-6xlLiZDxI/AAAAAAAAX-0/NGONN26XlR0qxZOn75mjkp8KewGpyh-cwCPcB/s1600/2016-08-14%2B03.15.36%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3qziIlPEReU/V-6xlLiZDxI/AAAAAAAAX-0/NGONN26XlR0qxZOn75mjkp8KewGpyh-cwCPcB/s1600/2016-08-14%2B03.15.36%2B2.jpg" /></a></div>
At 3:57 AM on August 2nd a tiny little boy was placed in my arms. As I waited for his cries, I felt the overwhelming fear/joy/love that a parent feels. This time I knew just how much I would love this little guy.<br />
<br />
The day before I woke up feeling off, and as the day progressed I felt worse and worse. We had planned to have family over for dinner but I was totally useless and all the prepwork was left to Nathan. After dinner (I had very little) I got up and felt a really intense contraction. Then another. But they weren't consistent, so I tried to brush it off. My sister and law saw me hiding in the bedroom. She convinced me that we should go to the hospital - just to be sure.<br />
<br />
Before we left, I went to grab the hospital bag and Nathan asked if we really needed to bring it. Luckily I insisted.<br />
<br />
Ashton Quinn was born 6 pounds 1 ounce, measuring 50 cm long. He came six days early and was a little small, but passed all the tests. He's perfect.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ll1q5jw_JQU/V8SX8LiE0CI/AAAAAAAAXdM/q33XVNmKpI02ckDTImHQSL3qHmiCRbMVQCPcB/s1600/IMG_4885.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ll1q5jw_JQU/V8SX8LiE0CI/AAAAAAAAXdM/q33XVNmKpI02ckDTImHQSL3qHmiCRbMVQCPcB/s1600/IMG_4885.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-m2qVeVBEUoQ/V8SX7iAJPmI/AAAAAAAAXdM/8NR5BosNUs0teOoL944nIgE9fvxxFJBqgCPcB/s1600/IMG_4903.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-m2qVeVBEUoQ/V8SX7iAJPmI/AAAAAAAAXdM/8NR5BosNUs0teOoL944nIgE9fvxxFJBqgCPcB/s1600/IMG_4903.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wyqzZ6vt8pM/V8SX6ak1RQI/AAAAAAAAXdM/FlbaS_eHxZg9pzWT2sHu5Y7S4unO-NFnwCPcB/s1600/IMG_4908.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wyqzZ6vt8pM/V8SX6ak1RQI/AAAAAAAAXdM/FlbaS_eHxZg9pzWT2sHu5Y7S4unO-NFnwCPcB/s1600/IMG_4908.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />jer_z_chickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01615140919574974483noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-631513364606143918.post-66695822332860699082016-09-07T18:00:00.001-07:002016-09-07T18:00:58.684-07:00Babymoon II<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2iy4HZHRYxQ/V8SYJgPSRcI/AAAAAAAAXdM/kYMY96cPs-klnOkk2ZcppvhQTUGkQXJiwCPcB/s1600/IMG_4345.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2iy4HZHRYxQ/V8SYJgPSRcI/AAAAAAAAXdM/kYMY96cPs-klnOkk2ZcppvhQTUGkQXJiwCPcB/s1600/IMG_4345.JPG" /></a></div>
We'd planned to visit family down in Michigan for a couple days before the new baby arrived, but my pregnancy brain kicked in to ruin it. My passport had expired, forcing us to stay in the country.<br />
<br />
Since I had already taken time off from work, Nathan and I each spent a few hours searching the internet for other options - Groupons to Niagara Falls, a couple days in Ottawa or Montreal - but finally settled on cabin camping a few hours north of the city.<br />
<br />
We drove up Saturday morning, grabbing groceries and other supplies along the way, and arrived in the early afternoon. We took some time to check out the site. There was a fire pit next to our cabin, a little area on the lake for fishing, and a playground that Cohen soon became obsessed with.<br />
<br />
It was nice to get away for days, and I am so glad we chose to stay in cabins rather than tents. My pregnant self would have hated sleeping on the ground.<br />
<br />
Scroll down for some shots from our trip :)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sYNdHV6eNb8/V8SYKOgCNKI/AAAAAAAAXdM/fwIKCd9dcy87EzoQZMxxjh2qMDDStS5qQCPcB/s1600/IMG_4362.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sYNdHV6eNb8/V8SYKOgCNKI/AAAAAAAAXdM/fwIKCd9dcy87EzoQZMxxjh2qMDDStS5qQCPcB/s1600/IMG_4362.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HcJ6w5zuaQs/V8SYIajgyhI/AAAAAAAAXdM/SPRT2si5c4YW0JSG34zxxNk3Wee7943BACPcB/s1600/IMG_4371.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HcJ6w5zuaQs/V8SYIajgyhI/AAAAAAAAXdM/SPRT2si5c4YW0JSG34zxxNk3Wee7943BACPcB/s1600/IMG_4371.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--3LMM4Gl1W4/V8SYJ9wNanI/AAAAAAAAXdM/OKESm0bO2Hw6gnNg7f7u_LVXkmoNVNgCwCPcB/s1600/IMG_4417.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--3LMM4Gl1W4/V8SYJ9wNanI/AAAAAAAAXdM/OKESm0bO2Hw6gnNg7f7u_LVXkmoNVNgCwCPcB/s1600/IMG_4417.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1k_UyWKqiPo/V8SYLhwtm1I/AAAAAAAAXdM/I-f-7cLQsVg1Av9ZscSkAdgaMcGD0dFBwCPcB/s1600/IMG_4421.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1k_UyWKqiPo/V8SYLhwtm1I/AAAAAAAAXdM/I-f-7cLQsVg1Av9ZscSkAdgaMcGD0dFBwCPcB/s1600/IMG_4421.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HsVnkOteMhE/V8SYI5cIJjI/AAAAAAAAXdM/2GfTCcKmvNcFFE1o5XVHlzu1aMg0zhZKwCPcB/s1600/IMG_4427.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HsVnkOteMhE/V8SYI5cIJjI/AAAAAAAAXdM/2GfTCcKmvNcFFE1o5XVHlzu1aMg0zhZKwCPcB/s1600/IMG_4427.JPG" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Mjv19IJGzTI/V8SYK8GLZ7I/AAAAAAAAXdM/tu3NCLf1YBE84kJ5dpAtI9p_ccoYYd4HwCPcB/s1600/IMG_4446.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Mjv19IJGzTI/V8SYK8GLZ7I/AAAAAAAAXdM/tu3NCLf1YBE84kJ5dpAtI9p_ccoYYd4HwCPcB/s1600/IMG_4446.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XMxUizjexUw/V8SYIpXJUvI/AAAAAAAAXdM/X7lhfgFRdQwaTjoDdDhSiSMW-H4Ui0J7QCPcB/s1600/IMG_4450.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XMxUizjexUw/V8SYIpXJUvI/AAAAAAAAXdM/X7lhfgFRdQwaTjoDdDhSiSMW-H4Ui0J7QCPcB/s1600/IMG_4450.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YfYFpwqIv4A/V8SYLJIvNoI/AAAAAAAAXdM/byj4yWwWhbIEwmucCdTp3QTfAtiGrgdbACPcB/s1600/IMG_4473.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YfYFpwqIv4A/V8SYLJIvNoI/AAAAAAAAXdM/byj4yWwWhbIEwmucCdTp3QTfAtiGrgdbACPcB/s1600/IMG_4473.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VpnH6_AAJ_w/V8SX1DGOgGI/AAAAAAAAXdM/N6UG7Z8hN3EHAX2LlUe-j_MdSJnE6KpDQCPcB/s1600/IMG_4478.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VpnH6_AAJ_w/V8SX1DGOgGI/AAAAAAAAXdM/N6UG7Z8hN3EHAX2LlUe-j_MdSJnE6KpDQCPcB/s1600/IMG_4478.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sgvFhxfQJI4/V8SX6RTPA0I/AAAAAAAAXdM/ZRSQ2zKHSBkSTiZADbteRyUbDGVbx-HWACPcB/s1600/IMG_4492.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sgvFhxfQJI4/V8SX6RTPA0I/AAAAAAAAXdM/ZRSQ2zKHSBkSTiZADbteRyUbDGVbx-HWACPcB/s1600/IMG_4492.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IPFAgXoVyOA/V8SX4bCjCEI/AAAAAAAAXdM/qFuU3ZoFsuYUC0Gyq74iqVBaXFeMG77aQCPcB/s1600/IMG_4501.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IPFAgXoVyOA/V8SX4bCjCEI/AAAAAAAAXdM/qFuU3ZoFsuYUC0Gyq74iqVBaXFeMG77aQCPcB/s1600/IMG_4501.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LbWDnhuMt-8/V8So5f5UEwI/AAAAAAAAXgM/YH_-ZyYVHxYejtoIrsbwYufcKzH5M5_YgCPcB/s1600/2016-08-15%2B11.57.16%2B1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LbWDnhuMt-8/V8So5f5UEwI/AAAAAAAAXgM/YH_-ZyYVHxYejtoIrsbwYufcKzH5M5_YgCPcB/s1600/2016-08-15%2B11.57.16%2B1.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8ogkbyJYESg/V8SX5SmVUKI/AAAAAAAAXdM/v5zLoqrG2-M0LDCKlDcaMK_giATpciJPQCPcB/s1600/IMG_4568.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8ogkbyJYESg/V8SX5SmVUKI/AAAAAAAAXdM/v5zLoqrG2-M0LDCKlDcaMK_giATpciJPQCPcB/s1600/IMG_4568.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oMP94kLt5xc/V8SX4wnvJJI/AAAAAAAAXdM/607Y1YqIMTgzQg1eEOaiNhtmN0rhUfSGACPcB/s1600/IMG_4516.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oMP94kLt5xc/V8SX4wnvJJI/AAAAAAAAXdM/607Y1YqIMTgzQg1eEOaiNhtmN0rhUfSGACPcB/s1600/IMG_4516.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dZB1QeMRV5U/V8SX9COLzlI/AAAAAAAAXdM/QAhna6lBTc4lhnVemkRxRSOMPSPcAOOEQCPcB/s1600/IMG_4602.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dZB1QeMRV5U/V8SX9COLzlI/AAAAAAAAXdM/QAhna6lBTc4lhnVemkRxRSOMPSPcAOOEQCPcB/s1600/IMG_4602.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_DZBnWxez10/V8SX8UvMMxI/AAAAAAAAXdM/TAuo1crmHQcZI-R9ntf1zcLwzakspahYwCPcB/s1600/IMG_4612.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_DZBnWxez10/V8SX8UvMMxI/AAAAAAAAXdM/TAuo1crmHQcZI-R9ntf1zcLwzakspahYwCPcB/s1600/IMG_4612.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9qFAQwDNCNg/V8SX1K7onxI/AAAAAAAAXdM/VjN-tzRtVs4ojZk1T1IJHDPskq33DGWWgCPcB/s1600/IMG_4704.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9qFAQwDNCNg/V8SX1K7onxI/AAAAAAAAXdM/VjN-tzRtVs4ojZk1T1IJHDPskq33DGWWgCPcB/s1600/IMG_4704.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-24S1rDU7WLE/V8SXzvj8OFI/AAAAAAAAXdM/Ab2lnFnYDhM07EVXc5A7Y1ytCRKH9GNAACPcB/s1600/IMG_4710.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-24S1rDU7WLE/V8SXzvj8OFI/AAAAAAAAXdM/Ab2lnFnYDhM07EVXc5A7Y1ytCRKH9GNAACPcB/s1600/IMG_4710.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-J7FZQWXgWnk/V8SX1_MKdsI/AAAAAAAAXdM/8s3h0EKUsOQ5jt5XaVhg0M-dfhPPmGcgQCPcB/s1600/IMG_4733.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-J7FZQWXgWnk/V8SX1_MKdsI/AAAAAAAAXdM/8s3h0EKUsOQ5jt5XaVhg0M-dfhPPmGcgQCPcB/s1600/IMG_4733.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
Eeep, typical family photo - a little awkward but I'm glad we took it!<br />
<br />jer_z_chickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01615140919574974483noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-631513364606143918.post-75956304941837823902016-04-25T18:22:00.000-07:002016-05-16T17:37:17.836-07:00Who Taught Them This?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3RIiPV1B8rU/Vx1zLYragyI/AAAAAAAAWDQ/zMbSkbTGIU0J_wdPBwOwZ0fXvZ9ln8zSwCKgB/s1600/IMG_3874.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3RIiPV1B8rU/Vx1zLYragyI/AAAAAAAAWDQ/zMbSkbTGIU0J_wdPBwOwZ0fXvZ9ln8zSwCKgB/s1600/IMG_3874.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
Tonight Cohen seemed so grown up to me. There was just another glimpse into the coming years with this kid. I can see he's not going to make it easy, but he's definitely going to make it fun.<br />
<br />
He's had a tough couple of days. I'm not sure why - because he's normally happy about it - but over this past week, he has cried and screamed about being left at bedtime, at school, and at nursery. He hugs me so tight and refuses to let go, sobbing over his words. I have to admit, a couple times I held him a little longer than necessary simply because it was nice to feel so loved and needed. He's growing up fast, and he often bids me farewell with a, "bye, mommy," while waving a hand and looking in the other direction.<br />
<br />
Tonight he had one of these fits. I nearly fell for it, worrying if something is wrong - he isn't feeling well or he's feeling sad. He so quickly turns his mood though, the second he feels safe from whatever he's trying to avoid. As he's (still, somehow) potty training, I rushed him into the bathroom when he told me he needed to go, mid tears. Suddenly, he was having a ball. He was asking about everything in the room, poking my leg and giggling, almost carrying on a big kid conversation with me. At one point he told me he wanted his water, and asked me to get it from "in my bedroom." He didn't seem upset at all.<br />
<br />
Once he was done (and he legitimately did need to go, thank goodness), the fit returned, this time, insisting that he sleep in "daddy's bed."<br />
<br />
Where do kids learn these tactics? He has no older siblings to example this behaviour and I doubt he and his friends have the language skills to conspire at school. How great is it that it appears to be an innate human skill... Yet, somehow I'm infinitely proud and love him more than anything.<br />
<br />
Oh, and if you're wondering if he ever did get to bed? Yes. I felt defeated, so his father went in with him, and from what I heard from the next room over, Cohen didn't protest at all. Figures.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-J6rfZG3oOF8/Vx1zS2vO1II/AAAAAAAAWDQ/tc9fhk7_WeACc6BeYHnYggTz6vvnNwwHQCKgB/s1600/IMG_3902.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-J6rfZG3oOF8/Vx1zS2vO1II/AAAAAAAAWDQ/tc9fhk7_WeACc6BeYHnYggTz6vvnNwwHQCKgB/s1600/IMG_3902.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5_h4zOniOa0/Vx1zHxVGRjI/AAAAAAAAWDQ/7TUt5Hfk9nULMNDlwp47EE4bKgQE_r8EwCKgB/s1600/IMG_3850.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5_h4zOniOa0/Vx1zHxVGRjI/AAAAAAAAWDQ/7TUt5Hfk9nULMNDlwp47EE4bKgQE_r8EwCKgB/s1600/IMG_3850.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BbPQPWNI9ls/Vx1zM1CACYI/AAAAAAAAWDQ/EFVeyV_W0VQO77p2KnqRt0fl0yCakPkJQCKgB/s1600/IMG_3881.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BbPQPWNI9ls/Vx1zM1CACYI/AAAAAAAAWDQ/EFVeyV_W0VQO77p2KnqRt0fl0yCakPkJQCKgB/s1600/IMG_3881.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bM7uERVVqNk/Vx1zOeESnJI/AAAAAAAAWDQ/5Jl8UX-D3GQkegicCuVlYF8fL76UUUelACKgB/s1600/IMG_3886.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bM7uERVVqNk/Vx1zOeESnJI/AAAAAAAAWDQ/5Jl8UX-D3GQkegicCuVlYF8fL76UUUelACKgB/s1600/IMG_3886.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />jer_z_chickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01615140919574974483noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-631513364606143918.post-46807614367318495082016-02-11T18:27:00.000-08:002016-02-11T18:42:51.760-08:00Mornings Lately<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6TG7c-eUd4I/Vr1EpKDDumI/AAAAAAAAVlg/a4Z-egftOQ0/s1600/IMG_2523.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6TG7c-eUd4I/Vr1EpKDDumI/AAAAAAAAVlg/a4Z-egftOQ0/s1600/IMG_2523.JPG" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #383838; font-family: "gotham" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #383838; font-family: "gotham" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;">A couple nights ago Cohen periodically woke up from coughing, he would chat to himself about puppies and chocolate, and then drifting back to sleep. But at 5 AM, he woke up for good - crying and yelling for us to come get him. When I opened his door, I found a tear streaked boy with snot all over his sad face. He was coughing up a fit. After gathering his clothes for the day, I brought him downstairs where we joined Nathan back in bed. But he continued to cough and wipe at his nose. We saw what looked like a little blood. As I was beginning to worry, Nathan pointed out that it looked like he was about to throw up. This cemented my thought that it might be best if I call the health line for a little direction and reassurance.</span><br />
<div style="border: 0px; color: #383838; font-family: gotham, helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<span style="color: #383838; font-family: "gotham" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;">After being on the phone, answering a slew of questions about Cohen's breathing, couching, and eating habits (and being told he essentially had a cold) , I felt overwhelmingly grateful. Sure, he was feeling awful and acting cranky (and we were all in need of a little extra sleep) but he is an overall healthy kid. The nurse had asked so many questions about his history or medical problems or concerns and I responded no to every single one. What a blessing!</span><br />
<div style="border: 0px; color: #383838; font-family: gotham, helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<span style="color: #383838; font-family: "gotham" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;">These early mornings, when the sun hasn't yet come up and my toes freeze as I tip toe through the house to him, can be tough. I usually let out a big sigh of defeat as I haul myself out of bed. I want nothing more than to stay cozy in bed during these cold Winter months. I'm reminded how lucky I am to have this time with him. Whether I'm cramped on a kiddie chair eating breakfast at a kiddie table with him or rushing to get ready for work while he watches Paw Patrol next to me (shouting "puppy!" or repeating random words), it's a good way to start the day. Together.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Sp3JzPu6h-0/Vr1D7vnifcI/AAAAAAAAVlE/7WL3slp9AGk/s1600/IMG_2465.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Sp3JzPu6h-0/Vr1D7vnifcI/AAAAAAAAVlE/7WL3slp9AGk/s1600/IMG_2465.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--2oNz6YK0P4/Vr1D-MPhaHI/AAAAAAAAVlE/-BqlaXopJlE/s1600/IMG_2469.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--2oNz6YK0P4/Vr1D-MPhaHI/AAAAAAAAVlE/-BqlaXopJlE/s1600/IMG_2469.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Pa7oM0w9q4g/Vr1D7wfjAQI/AAAAAAAAVlE/GuHAd9n6eDw/s1600/IMG_2473.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Pa7oM0w9q4g/Vr1D7wfjAQI/AAAAAAAAVlE/GuHAd9n6eDw/s1600/IMG_2473.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WURL7WH_LeQ/Vr1ENTk0PyI/AAAAAAAAVlE/nHkqOi50pLM/s1600/IMG_2474.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WURL7WH_LeQ/Vr1ENTk0PyI/AAAAAAAAVlE/nHkqOi50pLM/s1600/IMG_2474.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OeVhiQjmpY8/Vr1ELbnhnKI/AAAAAAAAVlE/IDxuE2UOc8Q/s1600/IMG_2486.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OeVhiQjmpY8/Vr1ELbnhnKI/AAAAAAAAVlE/IDxuE2UOc8Q/s1600/IMG_2486.JPG" /></a></div>
He had so much fun running around in the cleared-out mid-renovated kitchen.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-C1v0JVkJzng/Vr1EW3oap1I/AAAAAAAAVlc/l8Wb-dEnyI8/s1600/IMG_2503.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-C1v0JVkJzng/Vr1EW3oap1I/AAAAAAAAVlc/l8Wb-dEnyI8/s1600/IMG_2503.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LtS1F3zosuc/Vr1Emvh1RcI/AAAAAAAAVk0/tI4yslwE2IM/s1600/IMG_2510.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LtS1F3zosuc/Vr1Emvh1RcI/AAAAAAAAVk0/tI4yslwE2IM/s1600/IMG_2510.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZVg18tgmJv0/Vr1ErLAEAUI/AAAAAAAAVlA/i1YFDCmG7YY/s1600/IMG_2516.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZVg18tgmJv0/Vr1ErLAEAUI/AAAAAAAAVlA/i1YFDCmG7YY/s1600/IMG_2516.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-08VKXwm6xJ0/Vr1Ew9gbWJI/AAAAAAAAVlI/TJL9zYqT5fc/s1600/IMG_2527.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-08VKXwm6xJ0/Vr1Ew9gbWJI/AAAAAAAAVlI/TJL9zYqT5fc/s1600/IMG_2527.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-peQhzom5LwU/Vr1E1ShpXAI/AAAAAAAAVlQ/dxkG-zPx78w/s1600/IMG_2530.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-peQhzom5LwU/Vr1E1ShpXAI/AAAAAAAAVlQ/dxkG-zPx78w/s1600/IMG_2530.JPG" /></a></div>
Can you believe this gorgeous golden hair?!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-u76T3zQdOzE/Vr1E88gLGEI/AAAAAAAAVlY/br-8pZyNEzI/s1600/IMG_2561.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-u76T3zQdOzE/Vr1E88gLGEI/AAAAAAAAVlY/br-8pZyNEzI/s1600/IMG_2561.JPG" /></a><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-u76T3zQdOzE/Vr1E88gLGEI/AAAAAAAAVlY/br-8pZyNEzI/s1600/IMG_2561.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
<span style="color: #383838; font-family: "gotham" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #383838; font-family: "gotham" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;">That's what it's all about right there :)</span></span>jer_z_chickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01615140919574974483noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-631513364606143918.post-70183425945055669152015-12-20T18:07:00.000-08:002016-02-11T18:08:08.221-08:00Weekly Portrait: 50 / 52<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rcbvhYr3lnA/Vr07Qb_cP1I/AAAAAAAAVjg/SRTCtePrWqY/s1600/Week%2B50.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rcbvhYr3lnA/Vr07Qb_cP1I/AAAAAAAAVjg/SRTCtePrWqY/s1600/Week%2B50.jpg" /></a></div>
We put the tree up this week. I was super excited to decorate it with Cohen, but he wasn't really into it. Mind you, the next day he was allll for rearranging the ornaments. Isn't that how it always works out?<br />
<br />
He did run around naked (in a diaper only) while we (read: I) decorated. And it was adorable. That itty bitty body!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Portrait of our son each week in 2015</i></div>
jer_z_chickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01615140919574974483noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-631513364606143918.post-49793557779444682312015-12-13T10:20:00.000-08:002016-02-11T18:01:59.115-08:00Weekly Portrait: 49 / 52<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qiSxlmrPdV0/Vr085xBnTjI/AAAAAAAAVjk/Satq3gWeEBI/s1600/2016-02-08%2B09.23.14%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qiSxlmrPdV0/Vr085xBnTjI/AAAAAAAAVjk/Satq3gWeEBI/s1600/2016-02-08%2B09.23.14%2B2.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Cohen seems to be very interested in the way things work. Now, that may be a normal stage for all kids but he is my first, so it's all brand new to me! He has mastered the one wooden puzzle he has (it's six animals with little knobs to grip them with). I remember just a few short months ago he would get so frustrated with trying to get them into the proper shapes (they are in the shape of each animals, so you've got to be precise when fitting each piece in) but now he gets them in nearly every time. Sure, he's also learned to ask for "hep", but I think he's also learning it's easier to get mom or dad to do it for him! That rascal.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Portrait of our son each week in 2015</div>
jer_z_chickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01615140919574974483noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-631513364606143918.post-43563966693454163242015-12-12T18:37:00.000-08:002015-12-12T18:37:01.241-08:00Cohen Gets His First Hair Cut<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Pl_Xi7KvSUA/VmuOkbVH46I/AAAAAAAAU3c/Z-gGS1R_-Fs/s1600/2015-12-11%2B07.50.44%2B1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Pl_Xi7KvSUA/VmuOkbVH46I/AAAAAAAAU3c/Z-gGS1R_-Fs/s1600/2015-12-11%2B07.50.44%2B1.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Just over a week ago Cohen got a haircut. It wasn't really planned and I just cut it myself, but I think it turned out pretty well.<br />
<br />
I know there are a lot of posts on many social media platforms taking a stance on hair length for little boys and girls. We were constantly asked about Cohen's hair and why we have cut it yet. People thought we were making a point by keeping it long. We kept it long because, as a toddler, Nathan had longer hair and we both thought it was cute to be like dad. Nothing more than that. I just adored my baby with his wild and crazy long hair.<br />
<br />
People were always telling us to cut his hair: "He's a boy. He should have short hair." A bit of a dated idea, but everyone is entitled to their own preferences. We liked his hair and Cohen didn't seem to mind it, so we saw no reason to change it.<br />
<br />
I will admit to a couple concerns though. The first: he might get overly attached to his hair and get upset when it finally was time to have it cut. The second: his hair constantly in his face, getting covered in food, snot and anything else!<br />
<br />
So on a Wednesday or Thursday I mentioned it to Nathan and sent him s could pictures of little boy haircuts. He grudgingly agreed and we planned to do it the upcoming weekend.<br />
<br />
Then we forgot.<br />
<br />
On Sunday morning, while I was dressed for church and minutes from leaving, I said, "let's just do it now". And we did - with a lollipop in hand, Cohen sat in his high chair and got his first haircut (at 19 months old).<br />
<br />
Hair stuck to his lollipop and his sticky little fingers. After a few minutes he was getting restless, whipping his head back and forth. And my skirt was covered in hair.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-D9Qt-i2UWms/VmuOlMZTB6I/AAAAAAAAU3g/gOS5ET8o4Rg/s1600/2015-12-11%2B07.50.53%2B1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-D9Qt-i2UWms/VmuOlMZTB6I/AAAAAAAAU3g/gOS5ET8o4Rg/s1600/2015-12-11%2B07.50.53%2B1.jpg" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DejYmI-syC4/VmuOmhulA-I/AAAAAAAAU3o/b2QsUMBAZWM/s1600/2015-12-11%2B07.50.56%2B1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DejYmI-syC4/VmuOmhulA-I/AAAAAAAAU3o/b2QsUMBAZWM/s1600/2015-12-11%2B07.50.56%2B1.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It's funny, strangers often mistook Cohen for a girl. We always thought it was the hair, but people still call him "she" with the long hair. I guess we've hot a pretty boy!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--yNLJphB0GM/VmuOkELZvVI/AAAAAAAAU3U/RyAcrjT7k9k/s1600/2015-12-11%2B09.59.46%2B1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--yNLJphB0GM/VmuOkELZvVI/AAAAAAAAU3U/RyAcrjT7k9k/s1600/2015-12-11%2B09.59.46%2B1.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Terrible quality, but he's looking all handsome and grown up!</div>
<br />jer_z_chickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01615140919574974483noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-631513364606143918.post-26395899723593312382015-12-06T18:55:00.000-08:002016-02-11T17:49:04.582-08:00Weekly Portrait: 48 / 52<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-t5GfPIKnEOk/VrVjwQxgF0I/AAAAAAAAVfI/sl9noT_UNYw/s1600/IMG_2513.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-t5GfPIKnEOk/VrVjwQxgF0I/AAAAAAAAVfI/sl9noT_UNYw/s1600/IMG_2513.JPG" /></a></div>
Cohen has been laughing so much this week. Just randomly! He'll just be sitting there, and start laughing. It's so cute! He loves being silly - tickling mommy and daddy, imitating those around him, or making funny noises - and seems to love an audience too.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Portrait of our son each week in 2015</div>
jer_z_chickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01615140919574974483noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-631513364606143918.post-29097414800565445112015-11-29T17:44:00.000-08:002016-02-11T17:48:18.011-08:00Weekly Portrait: 47 / 52<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6693HnT4Gi0/VrVn3VFcl7I/AAAAAAAAVgY/8kBdUmUD7Cc/s1600/Week%2B47.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6693HnT4Gi0/VrVn3VFcl7I/AAAAAAAAVgY/8kBdUmUD7Cc/s1600/Week%2B47.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Here he is, looking all grown up after his FIRST haircut!<br />
<br />
It snowed a little this week. There was a thin layer of small hail-like snow covering everything. Cohen was able to play with (read: eat) it. We kept opening the back sliding door to fill a bowl with snow. He loved it!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Portrait of our son each week in 2015</i></div>
jer_z_chickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01615140919574974483noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-631513364606143918.post-57144951951914854042015-11-22T17:38:00.000-08:002016-02-11T17:44:48.696-08:00Weekly Portrait: 46 /52<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-c9v6-HCrqDw/VrVnQQIajiI/AAAAAAAAVig/M6d0AYyxP40/s1600/Week%2B46.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-c9v6-HCrqDw/VrVnQQIajiI/AAAAAAAAVig/M6d0AYyxP40/s1600/Week%2B46.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Ha! I don't know what brought this on, but he's been climbing into everything. We've got a few baskets around (one for blankets, a couple for his toys) and he's been emptying them so he can climb in! He even tried to get into the tall laundry basket!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Portrait of our son each week in 2015</i></div>
jer_z_chickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01615140919574974483noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-631513364606143918.post-57815508181642645752015-11-15T18:53:00.000-08:002016-02-11T17:37:54.974-08:00Weekly Portrit: 45 / 52<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QPHjkGx5Liw/VrLB24-PGvI/AAAAAAAAVcE/S7Gea3wBkj8/s1600/Week%2B45.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QPHjkGx5Liw/VrLB24-PGvI/AAAAAAAAVcE/S7Gea3wBkj8/s1600/Week%2B45.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
He loves to "play" games like dad, although he seems to be catching on. We won't be able to do this for much longer!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Portrait of our son each week in 2015</i></div>
jer_z_chickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01615140919574974483noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-631513364606143918.post-22966313329368114822015-11-08T18:52:00.000-08:002016-02-11T17:36:18.757-08:00Weekly Portrait: 44 / 52<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uVv5HC1GBkk/VrAR-vRlgXI/AAAAAAAAVao/MgvooUwRggc/s1600/Week%2B44.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uVv5HC1GBkk/VrAR-vRlgXI/AAAAAAAAVao/MgvooUwRggc/s1600/Week%2B44.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Our man.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Portrait of our son each week in 2015</i></div>
jer_z_chickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01615140919574974483noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-631513364606143918.post-77334972335971523682015-11-01T18:49:00.000-08:002016-01-31T19:23:08.224-08:00Weekly Portrait: 43 / 52<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OAueBt-dB3c/VqmBox3FF2I/AAAAAAAAVVo/gHKP2jsEXtg/s1600/Week%2B43.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OAueBt-dB3c/VqmBox3FF2I/AAAAAAAAVVo/gHKP2jsEXtg/s1600/Week%2B43.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Cohen loved Halloween. He quickly learned that behind each door, a bowl of candy was waiting for him. He kept going for over an hour - he was the cutest thing!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Portrait of our son each week in 2015</i></div>
jer_z_chickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01615140919574974483noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-631513364606143918.post-8684578793772991262015-10-25T18:46:00.000-07:002016-01-31T19:19:54.502-08:00Weekly Portrait: 42 /52<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tKZQSSAM8w0/VqmERhgXOFI/AAAAAAAAVV0/Izqr7ABMdBs/s1600/Week%2B42.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tKZQSSAM8w0/VqmERhgXOFI/AAAAAAAAVV0/Izqr7ABMdBs/s1600/Week%2B42.jpg" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Portrait of our son each week in 2015</i></div>
jer_z_chickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01615140919574974483noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-631513364606143918.post-10149742780861204472015-10-18T18:47:00.000-07:002016-01-27T18:52:36.364-08:00Weekly Portrait: 41 / 52<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Dr3dVYEyXFY/VpRpQa7AYSI/AAAAAAAAVN4/YXKYGteyv9w/s1600/IMG_1686.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Dr3dVYEyXFY/VpRpQa7AYSI/AAAAAAAAVN4/YXKYGteyv9w/s1600/IMG_1686.JPG" /></a></div>
This day was beautiful. It was the perfect Thanksgiving, spent with family (and friends who are now family!), eating, exploring, and chatting. To see Cohen interacting with his cousins, aunt, uncle, and grandparents was so much fun. I love to just watch him play and laugh with others. He's his own little person. And he's incredible. I'm so proud of that little person.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Portrait of our son each week in 2015</i></div>
jer_z_chickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01615140919574974483noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-631513364606143918.post-86707847485002781032015-10-11T18:44:00.000-07:002016-01-27T18:52:22.808-08:00Weekly Portrait: 40 / 52<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-e2npnjcghew/VphsDzcEB-I/AAAAAAAAVRg/vG6BdtQJ7lM/s1600/Week%2B40.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-e2npnjcghew/VphsDzcEB-I/AAAAAAAAVRg/vG6BdtQJ7lM/s1600/Week%2B40.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Exploring everything with such fascination. Such a fun age.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Portrait of our son each week in 2015</i></div>
jer_z_chickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01615140919574974483noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-631513364606143918.post-59988633024906246332015-10-04T18:35:00.000-07:002016-01-27T18:52:02.973-08:00Weekly Portrait: 39 / 52<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-b7TfHZfrBn0/VpWu67QeJII/AAAAAAAAVP4/8wo00xU1FeU/s1600/Week%2B39.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-b7TfHZfrBn0/VpWu67QeJII/AAAAAAAAVP4/8wo00xU1FeU/s1600/Week%2B39.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
He's become much more confident in climbing stairs and exploring. We do need to keep an eye out because he is quite prone to accidents lately, but that doesn't mean he won't try to sneak away!<br />
<br />
In this photo, he was actually going <i>down</i> the stairs. It was something that he was really nervous about for a long time. But after watching a few of his friends do it, he quickly followed suit and descends stairs quite well!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Portrait of our son each week in 2015</div>
jer_z_chickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01615140919574974483noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-631513364606143918.post-89239873295272665492015-10-01T11:54:00.000-07:002015-10-18T12:09:47.807-07:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB-WfADwXO202od8HQW_87L9OnEOwcRXU5N-zR3THWZeEjH1nV6L3msT4JY1nJK_vGxKmOSdACTThgyiKumzT6hSszNv-aMeIShzq5HrhOqF_Ex-83KZ_uivtJc97cvjrmK4f9EwPUwpEZ/s1600/IMG_0472.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB-WfADwXO202od8HQW_87L9OnEOwcRXU5N-zR3THWZeEjH1nV6L3msT4JY1nJK_vGxKmOSdACTThgyiKumzT6hSszNv-aMeIShzq5HrhOqF_Ex-83KZ_uivtJc97cvjrmK4f9EwPUwpEZ/s1600/IMG_0472.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
Sometime I feel like I get a glimpse of Cohen as a teenager. It's usually a look, nothing big. Just for a second, I see him all grown up. And it makes me so proud and happy and excited (and sad!).<br />
<br />
We've had a few rough moments this past weekend - scream fests, refusing to sleep. During these episodes I often feel helpless. I can't think of anything to do to change the situation. It feels as though he will cry forever. For. Ever. Truly, it can be so overwhelming.<br />
<br />
Nathan will often tell me to simply relax (to which I consistently get even more worked up). But once the chaos has calmed, I see that he's right. I need to take a second, breathe, and look at the situation from a calmer place.<br />
<br />
A few photos below of my favourite munchkin to test my patience...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CjpFus_0IV0/ViPrjBq8rCI/AAAAAAAAUMI/I2KChxgZFA8/s1600/IMG_0451.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CjpFus_0IV0/ViPrjBq8rCI/AAAAAAAAUMI/I2KChxgZFA8/s1600/IMG_0451.JPG" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Ha! I mean, come on. This face!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Hy8Dwi2VjiA/ViPrmZ0MQOI/AAAAAAAAUMY/Ny6xlPDpTSQ/s1600/IMG_0389.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Hy8Dwi2VjiA/ViPrmZ0MQOI/AAAAAAAAUMY/Ny6xlPDpTSQ/s1600/IMG_0389.JPG" /></a></div>
These two were so cute together. I love watching Cohen play with other littles!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Da59Dz-4iuY/ViPrlvE2Q1I/AAAAAAAAUMU/6uIJFNMmPmQ/s1600/IMG_0540.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Da59Dz-4iuY/ViPrlvE2Q1I/AAAAAAAAUMU/6uIJFNMmPmQ/s1600/IMG_0540.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZYfbs81v8lw/ViProSrQwBI/AAAAAAAAUMg/3x7-Zgif_0w/s1600/IMG_0567.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZYfbs81v8lw/ViProSrQwBI/AAAAAAAAUMg/3x7-Zgif_0w/s1600/IMG_0567.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-T9ftOx_j364/ViPrsi5uQNI/AAAAAAAAUMo/AHWyfxay_Cw/s1600/IMG_0591.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-T9ftOx_j364/ViPrsi5uQNI/AAAAAAAAUMo/AHWyfxay_Cw/s1600/IMG_0591.JPG" /></a></div>
I think he was feeding me ice here. Look at him using both hands and being so sweet to share. (insert heart eye emoji here)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GXbmV1GQloE/ViPr4W_AtrI/AAAAAAAAUM0/j5rC3od_Wto/s1600/IMG_0605.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GXbmV1GQloE/ViPr4W_AtrI/AAAAAAAAUM0/j5rC3od_Wto/s1600/IMG_0605.JPG" /></a></div>
Just me, while Nathan adjusts camera settings.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HZfufYccvwM/ViPsK-CYAmI/AAAAAAAAUNA/lYmMp7XC4SI/s1600/IMG_0619.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HZfufYccvwM/ViPsK-CYAmI/AAAAAAAAUNA/lYmMp7XC4SI/s1600/IMG_0619.JPG" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Uz :)</div>
<br />jer_z_chickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01615140919574974483noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-631513364606143918.post-15286768434345644712015-09-27T18:30:00.000-07:002016-01-27T18:51:41.905-08:00Weekly Portrait: 38 / 52<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dUdvc82OFoY/VpWtSzD4IMI/AAAAAAAAVPk/0HUxwz7vmZA/s1600/Week%2B38.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dUdvc82OFoY/VpWtSzD4IMI/AAAAAAAAVPk/0HUxwz7vmZA/s1600/Week%2B38.jpg" /></a></div>
We took Cohen to the park and explored. After having a little picnic, he made a few friends, tried to run off with the birds, and ran around the playground. It's been great doing so much more with him, and watching him experience new things.<br />
<br />
Also, those eyes (!!!).<br />
<br />
<br />
Portrait of our son each week in 2015jer_z_chickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01615140919574974483noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-631513364606143918.post-15677868384313508152015-09-20T18:18:00.000-07:002016-01-11T18:22:56.513-08:00Weekly Portrait: 37 / 52<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YxtModNNTzI/Vl0TwhwWOEI/AAAAAAAAUzM/fZ25ITzpBQY/s1600/Week%2B37.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YxtModNNTzI/Vl0TwhwWOEI/AAAAAAAAUzM/fZ25ITzpBQY/s1600/Week%2B37.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
He's so much fun. When he was young I was simply in awe of him and could watch him sleep or coo for hours. But now, it's so much fun to really interact with him. More and more every day, he's becoming the greatest little person. My best friend.<br />
<br />
<br />
Portrait of our son each week in 2015jer_z_chickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01615140919574974483noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-631513364606143918.post-45177163916531911592015-09-13T11:15:00.000-07:002016-01-11T18:17:35.425-08:00Weekly Portrait: 36 / 52<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-L_vm2wpe02U/Vl0TrtOiWiI/AAAAAAAAUzI/2sJc3cn_uPY/s1600/Week%2B36.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-L_vm2wpe02U/Vl0TrtOiWiI/AAAAAAAAUzI/2sJc3cn_uPY/s1600/Week%2B36.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
A sleeping babe is just the sweetest thing (though I suppose I'll find it just as sweet when he's in his twenties!) - deep breaths, his chest slowly rising and falling. Rare are the days when he'll fall asleep in my arms any more. My boy is growing up.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Portrait of our son each week in 2015</div>
jer_z_chickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01615140919574974483noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-631513364606143918.post-59967907206312353732015-09-06T11:14:00.000-07:002015-11-30T18:52:14.425-08:00Weekly Portrait: 35 / 52 <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3l-MY5PaCbs/Vl0KKIq0hBI/AAAAAAAAUyk/WwHCH-D8rxg/s1600/Week%2B35.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3l-MY5PaCbs/Vl0KKIq0hBI/AAAAAAAAUyk/WwHCH-D8rxg/s1600/Week%2B35.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
He loves playing with his cousin and he loves to eat (fists full of watermelon on this particular day), so this wedding was a blast for him. He was a great little party goer at his uncle and (new!) aunt's wedding this past weekend. He even woke up after a couple hours and joined the party with us old folks!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Portrait of our son each week in 2015</div>
jer_z_chickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01615140919574974483noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-631513364606143918.post-32223917789186945662015-08-30T11:13:00.000-07:002015-11-30T18:40:09.440-08:00Weekly Portrait: 34 / 52<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3K1KftW_iqQ/VlcG3T7z0YI/AAAAAAAAUxU/znQ_IxHy8Io/s1600/Week%2B34.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3K1KftW_iqQ/VlcG3T7z0YI/AAAAAAAAUxU/znQ_IxHy8Io/s1600/Week%2B34.jpg" /></a></div>
My independent boy. This shot was taken at a birthday party of one of Cohen's little friends. It was great to spend the afternoon outside, although he did get a little two independent a few times and decided to run off with the birds! Luckily, it's hard to keep my eyes off him :)<br />
<br />
<br />
Portrait of our son each week in 2015jer_z_chickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01615140919574974483noreply@blogger.com0