November Leftovers

What happened to November!?! I guess I need to recap most of the month....

The first couple of weeks we kept busy with unpacking, moving stuff around, buying stuff so we could unpack more stuff, and just getting comfortable with our new place and neighborhood. Darius finished up his job training and so far is enjoying his work.

Our couch is officially broken in. It looks as if we've had it a year already.

We joined our local YMCA and are happy to be adding regular workouts to our days. We love the facility and all its amenities. It's especially nice that we can take the boys with us. They very much enjoy playing in the Child Development Center while we workout. They ask us almost everyday if they can go to the Y and often scream bloody murder when it's time to leave.

Zach got his first black eye. No dramatic story here, just horseplay with his brother. Blankets over the heads...one head meets the other's face. Zach had fun telling his aunts he had a shiner.

For Thanksgiving we joined the Bacons at their home for a delicious feast. The past couple of years it was just our little group of 4 for the holiday, so we were happy to be able to spend the day with our friends!

Our Thanksgiving Day entertainment....poems read by a turkey.

Nothing says Thanksgiving like a post dinner nap.

I didn't really have plans to do any crazy, late-night, pre-Black Friday shopping, but Patti had a few stores she was going to hit Thursday night, and I was eyeing a great deal on a sewing machine and kitchen mat, so I decided to tag along.

This was my first experience at Black Friday madness, and it definitely didn't disappoint! Darius and Michael had gone ahead to scout out Walmart to see if any lines were forming for a certain item Patti and Michael were looking to buy. Turns out we hadn't planned to leave soon enough, so we headed over to meet up with them. Darius had been busy checking stuff out for the boys and found some awesome deals, so I unexpectedly ended up stalking some ride-on toys for a couple of hours before the clock struck NUTS! I can't even describe the madness that ensued. I ended up leaving with all limbs in tact and the boys Christmas shopping pretty much all done.

Black shopping is definitely not for the timid, and although I'm not a shopper at heart...and no where near a competitive shopper, I must admit I found it strangely fun. Patti said it best..."it's an adrenaline rush"...so true.

We've been transitioning into Christmas mode this weekend, and we've got our tree and lights up, but we can't seem to move past that yet. I'm kind of preoccupied with baby shower stuff, and I guess with that and Darius' birthday coming up next weekend, I'm content with putting it on the back burner for now.

This is the part that obviously plugs into the wall, and where did I put it? Yep, at the top of the tree. Doesn't everyone have an outlet on the ceiling?

Moved in..mostly and FOOD!

It's been just about a week now, and we're almost there with the unpacking. Last Tuesday was our move-in date, and the Bacon's were awesome to help us out. Michael helped Darius with the heavy lifting, and Patti watched the boys for us while we unpacked the first day and a half. I started running out of steam after about the third day, and those final few pesky boxes are still lingering, and I'm still avoiding them! I guess I kind of got sidetracked by some post-birthday fun the last couple of days.

Patti, Michael, and Dylan gifted me with a visit to Epcot for their annual Food & Wine Festival. Michael, Dylan, and Honey watched the boys while Patti took me to spend the afternoon sampling world cuisine and drink. It was SO much fun! They know me well, and the route to my heart is much like the way it is to a man's...through the stomach!

We started out with a stop to the Craft Beers tent where I sampled the Full Sail IPA. We killed some time at a couple of shops while we waited for an afternoon rain shower to pass, and by the time we finished our sampling from Greece (Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki...YUM) and Moosehead Beer from Canada, the rain had stopped and we enjoyed perfect weather the rest of the day. We moved on and tried a cheese plate from Ireland, (Yes Carrie....Ireland does have delightful dairy!) a 16th Anniversary Festival Beer from Samuel Adams, a Harissa Chicken Roll and Baklava from Morocco.

We perused the shops at the different countries to give our food time to settle before moving on to Schofferhofer Weizen beer from Germany's Brewer's Collection, to warm caramel popcorn from the Werther's Original sweet shop, to a Strawberry Lime Margarita from Mexico, to a Beef Empanada from Argentina, to a Frozen Rock Coconut Mojito from the Caribbean (RIDICULOUS!), to Mahi Mahi with Coconut-Lime Sauce from Brazil, to a Lamington from Australia, and finally one last stop to the Craft Beers tent before we called it a day. Note: My sweet friend is carrying some precious cargo and was unable to indulge in the drink with me. I think she wishes she could have though...especially that insane mojito! Next year Patti....

So I know what you're thinking now...."Wow! What a lush little piggy you are Ruth!" Hmm...yes a little, but in my defense I was drinking 6 oz pours, eating small samples, and doing a lot of walking inbetween, so it's not nearly as bad as it sounds!

It was such a fun outing with my dear friend Patti....thank you, thank you, thank you! My belly and I thank you (and all the other Bacon's too)!

As if that wasn't enough culinary fun to last me for a year, I got another treat today. Darius took the boys and I into the restaurant he's working at for a nice belated birthday dinner. I'm embarrased to admit it, but I wasn't looking forward to our meal tonight....and not because I didn't want to try the food, but because I was a little freaked out by taking the boys into a really nice restaurant. I should have just relaxed and enjoyed myself more...it was dinner, the boys were fine, and the restaurant was still standing when we left.

Darius works at a really nice place! Ocean Prime has some unbelievably good food, and I can see why Darius was anxious to take us in to try it. We had Ahi Tuna Tartar for an appetizer. Darius had Chilean Sea Bass with Whipped Potatoes and Champagne Truffle Sauce, and I devoured the Blackened Snapper with Wilted Spinach & Jalapeno Corn Tartar. The boys had their fill of Macaroni and Cheddar Cheese with glazed carrots, and Mini Sliders with shoestring french fries. They also got to try OP's homemade strawberry sorbet and vanilla ice cream. There wasn't room for dessert, but I knew they had this ridiculous 10 layer carrot cake, and I was happy to take it home after a few bites.

Yup, I think I'm good and full for the next few days...or maybe at least until the carrot cake in the fridge starts calling my name. It's been fun to indulge and enjoy some really awesome food the past couple of days (and weeks)! Time to get back to getting those last few boxes unpacked, and time to add a solid workout to my daily routine!

Have I mentioned yet how good it is to be back?!

Homecoming

The day Ben and Zach were born was of course a huge day, but when I think back to the first days of their lives, the day they came home from the hospital is much more vivid and seems to stir up more emotions for me. Maybe I'll always remember that day clearly, but I won't chance my memory, so this will serve as a little reminder.

It was St. Patrick's Day, and we dressed the boys in green footed jumpers a friend had sent to us, and they had green knitted caps to wear which were supplied by volunteers from the hospital. I think it was the first day I was able to change their diapers. They were so tiny, and I remember I was nervous as I changed and dressed them.


After the boys were born I had a couple of cold sores break out on my mouth, and I couldn't kiss my boys until they cleared up, so I remember nuzzling my little babies the first week or so with my nose.

I received the customary ride to the curb in a wheelchair with my little bundles of baby cradled in my arms. When we got outside, I remember how awesome the fresh air felt after spending the past few days inside with all the hospital smells.

Since we only had Darius' truck at the time, Michael was there to drive me and the boys home in his vehicle, which was great because he was able to help us get the boys strapped into their seats too. Even though we had practiced putting them in their car seats in the hospital room, our nerves got the best of us and Darius and I needed the help.

The drive home felt really odd, probably because I was still in a fog from pain killers, but also in the sense that it felt like I was seeing things for the first time. I remember passing by an Irish restaurant/bar which had a big tent set up in their parking lot for a live band and an overflow of patrons. I thought back to past St. Patrick's Days and the different people I was with and the things we had done, and it all seemed so far removed from where I was at that moment.

Once we got home it sunk in that living in a 2nd floor apartment would from there on out present us with an extra challenge, especially when it meant one of us was alone to carry both baby-filled seat up the stairs. Darius would always caution me to be extra careful on the stairs with the boys, and I could clearly hear his warning in my head every time I headed up or down.

I remember how content we were to just sit and hold them and study their faces, little hands, little feet, and pick out the traits that reminded us of ourselves and others in our families. They were really our children, they were home, and our lives were forever changed. The months that followed are a huge blob of a blur, but that first day home is still clear.

To all of you celebrating today, whether it be St. Patrick's Day, a birthday, the start of an awesome trip to Ireland, a homecoming, or just another day...Slainte!

More Disney

After the baseball game on Thursday, Darius dropped the boys and I off to meet Patti and Dylan at the Animal Kingdom at Disney World. It was our first visit to the park, and we made the most of the time we had in the park before it closed. We got to see a parade, take a jungle safari ride, ride on some adorable triceratops, and Dylan and I took a ride on my first coaster in quite a long time.

After Animal Kingdom, we stopped at Hollywood Studios for dinner at Pizza Planet, visited Lightning McQueen and Mater, and Dylan and I took a ride on the Tower of Terror before we headed out.

We stopped back at Jimy's place to pick up our stuff and say goodbye to Darius. My husband is awesome. He knows how much I was dreading the return to winter, and he was okay with the boys and I staying a little longer. And then there's the awesome Bacon's. They were beyond kind and generous with giving us the green light to stay here longer with them. I feel leaps and bounds beyond lucky.

A whole lot of thanks to you, Darius, Michael, Patti, and Dylan! You've made me one very very very happy woman and mom!

Lunch & Dinner

The boys and I joined Patti for lunch with Dylan at his school this afternoon. We had another beautiful day, so we dined alfresco and then the boys enjoyed running around the school yard with Dylan before he had to go back to class.

After lunch Patti generously offered to watch the boys for Darius and I so we could spend the rest of the day together. We enjoyed an unusually quiet afternoon of a little shopping, and then we stopped at our favorite pizza joint, Mellow Mushroom, for dinner before heading back.

Best pizza...best crust!

It's still a strange feeling to go out without the boys, but we did enjoy ourselves. Even though I always feel a little guilty for leaving the boys, I know it's healthy to have some adult time away from them every so often. It makes for a happier mom and dad! Thanks again Patti & Michael!

Disney

We've enjoyed a fun-packed weekend! Saturday we got an early start and drove to Orlando to hit a couple of the Disney parks. We ended up visiting Epcot and Hollywood Studios. The boys were excited that we were going to see Mickey, and Mickey they saw. We made our way through a little character meet and greet at Epcot, and the boys got to meet Mickey, Minnie, Pluto, Goofy, and Donald (my favorite). Zach was very social and went right up to all of them after doing his little happy dance. Ben was excited too but preferred to keep his distance.

We enjoyed eating and drinking our way through the countries of Epcot's World Showcase, and the boys really enjoyed The Seas with Nemo & Friends Pavilion. They even helped out with dolphin impersonations at the Turtle Talk with Crush show.

In Hollywood Studios we heard all about Buzz Lightyear from the boys. There was definitely a lot going on with Toy Story 3, and the boys were going a little nuts. They waited "patiently" in line to meet Buzz and Woody (in their Buzz & Woody shirts no less) and then I completely missed my photo op once it came.

Another favorite was the Honey, I Shrunk the Kids Movie Set Adventure. It was a massive play area for the kids to explore, or get lost. It really was like stepping into a bug's shoes. It was a good thing we had Dylan with us to keep up with the boys. With all the kids playing and with the size of the play area, I was surprised anyone could keep tabs on their kids.

Even with all the fun in the parks alone, there was also the additional treat of riding on the parking lot tram, monorail, boat, and bus. All high quality entertainment in Ben and Zach's eyes'.

Another great Disney experience! Thank you so much Michael, Patti, and Dylan for making it happen!

Sweet!!

I was hoping that we could bring a little sunshine and heat back with us from Florida...didn't happen. But despite the dreary weather we're continuing to have, we're trying to make the best out of it. Darius took Michael and Dylan fishing over the past few days. They caught one good-sized halibut and were able to see some wildlife and a couple of the fishing vessels from Deadliest Catch.

Patti and I stayed closer to home. We walked around town a bit, took the boys to lunch, did a little shopping, and Patti graciously allowed me to go off on rants about everything and talk her ear off. I must keep reminding myself not to get so carried away....you're a saint for putting up with me Patti!

Dylan was excited about his first encounter with snow.

Today we took a drive out the road to Childs Glacier. The weather was chilly and overcast and we weren't too sure how enjoyable it would be when we got there. We left prepared to have a good time regardless. We took firewood, hot dogs, and fixings for smores. We ended up having a great time. I've been to the glacier a number of times, and I was blown away with how much activity there was today. I have never seen it calve so many times, and I was so excited the Bacons were there to see it.

We had a full carload as it was, so the boys stayed home with Grandma. Thanks Mom for helping out!

Making Magic Memories

We have some pretty amazing friends. Michael, Patti, and Dylan have graciously opened their home to us while we're here in Florida visiting. The day after we arrived, they threw Ben and Zach a birthday party at Honey's and Pop Pop's home, and Patti made them an incredible birthday cake. It was equally appealing to the belly as it was to the eye! The whole Bacon clan was present and rounded out by Tricia, AJ, and Austin. Our friend and former coworker also came with her son who is about the same age as the boys. It was a great party and we sincerely appreciate how good everyone is to our boys and us!

The following day we visited the Magic Kingdom at Disney World in Orlando. Again, all made possible by our awesome friends! I know there are several of us that agree that when we get to relive a first time experience through children, it's something very special. It was such a fun day to watch Ben and Zach take everything in.

My first memory of Disneyland was from when I was about 3 or 4. I remember the music from It's a Small World and looking up a lot, but that's about it. I think when Zach is older he may recall similar memories. He absolutely loved this ride. There was a lot of pointing, oohing, ahhing, and oh wowing going on! I loved watching his expressions.

Ben on the other hand took a much more quiet approach to the rides. Sometimes I think there's an old soul behind that young face, and it's already done and seen everything. When he does show emotion it's definitely out there. He had the most fun whenever we'd let him loose. He loved the play area outside of Mickey's House in Toontown, and enjoyed The Magic Carpets of Aladdin ride.

We can't thank you enough, but we'll thank you again Michael, Patti, Dylan, and Honey for sharing the day with us and helping us make those memories with our boys. Your veteran knowledge of the park, and selflessness when it came to making the day all about the boys took all the load off of us and made the experience nothing short of perfect. We love you all so much. You're nothing short of family in our book!

Friends and Family in Florida

The hardest part of leaving Florida, for me, wasn't the beaches, the consistent sunshine, or the mostly fabulous weather. It was leaving a small group of friends behind. Most of these friends are part of the Bacon family, and although I can't technically claim them as family, family is what they feel like to me.

When Ben & Zach were born last year, Darius and I didn't have any immediate family in FL to be with us at the hospital. It's intimidating to go through your first delivery experience, especially when it's a cesarean section, there are two babies, and you have no idea what to expect. I knew that the Bacons were coming to see us later after the boys were delivered, but I wasn't expecting to see Honey and Patti waiting in the recovery room. What a huge relief and a comfort it was to have them there with us.

Even before the boys were born, the Bacons were just as wonderful. They threw me a baby shower, visited me in the hospital and at home while I was on bed rest, and came over to visit me and the boys before I was ready to venture out with them.

Before Darius started working for AA, I seriously thought that it might be years before we'd ever get back to FL to visit. Imagine my absolute delight when years turned into 10 months instead. Darius had a rare string of days off from work and wanted to take advantage of the chance to get down to FL to ship the rest of our stuff back on the airline. Darius' good friend Randy has been kind enough to store our things since we left, and Darius felt it was important to relieve him of the chore while he had the chance. I knew it wasn't going to be a trip of leisure for him, so I didn't ask to go (although I really really wanted to). When he did ask if I wanted to go, I jumped at the chance. It was a mad dash to get us all ready to leave the next day, but I was more than happy to do it!

Randy was great to let all of us stay with him our first night we were there, and Darius the rest of the time. Ben and Zach loved Randy's dog, Tibado. He'd lick their faces and they'd laugh and follow him around the apartment. We're pretty sure that Zach's first word was 'dog' as he was interacting with Tibado.

Honey and Pop Pop were kind enough to let the boys and I stay with them the next two nights. What awesome people they are to open their home under such short notice (while remodeling their only guest bathroom) to me and two toddlers! I can't thank them enough!

Zach is modeling some fine Tigger eyewear..courtesy of Honey

Ben's taking a little breather from play

While we were there we enjoyed visiting with them and the rest of their family...cousin Dylan, Patti, Michael, AJ, Trish, and Austin. Joni even stopped by with her three young charges in tow. We were also able to see many of Darius' former co-workers when we went to Bonefish to have dinner.

Dinner/workout time

Dylan gave the boys a toy shark and some excellent pictures he drew of Curious George and the Man in the Yellow Hat, which are now hanging above their cribs. He followed them around the house and kept a close eye on them. I think he was more excited for the boys to go in the pool than anything else. Before we moved, he would always ask when the the boys could go in the pool. I'm guessing he may have been a little disappointed when neither of them cared much for it when they finally got in. They had more fun splashing from the sides of the pool.

Here's cousin Dylan watching an episode of Curious George with the boys, and playing peek-a-boo with Zach.

Although it was a short trip, I thoroughly enjoyed the time we had and loved seeing everyone! Special thanks to all of you for the great visit, and your wonderful hospitality. Love and miss you all!