The Polar Express

When I was a little girl my favorite Christmas story was Polar Express.  We read it every Christmas Eve, and every time I would proclaim how I could still hear the bell (I knew if I couldn't "Santa" wouldn't come).  As I got older I began to understand the importance of "hearing" the bell.  It meant that the spirit of Christmas, the innocence and wonder of a child's belief was still alive.  So, my first Christmas out of college I received my own copy of the Polar Express. 
Now, that I have a child of my own he hears the Polar Express every Christmas Eve, and sometimes a few times before.  The Wilmington Railroad Museum hosted a reading of the Polar Express.  It was wonderfully done, complete with a "first" gift of Christmas.

After hearing a local news personality read the children got to see Santa.  Along with a bag of candy, each child received a bell from Santa's sleigh.  Collin was pretty excited, but was much more interested in the trains.  He loves trains.  Then it was off to a place of his choosing for dinner.  Of all of the places in Wilmington Collin wanted to have dinner Chick-fil-a. 
It was a good night.  Collin was a hit in his pjs with Santa in a rocket ship, and note the rocket ship slipper to match :) 

A Tribute to My Husband, My Hero

I nominated Robert for an award at our alma mater, The University of South Carolina.  He made it to the final 14 (out of more than 200), but did not make the final 5 that go up for vote.  After looking at the applicants who won I realized that Robert just wasn't who the university was looking for anyway.  I may be more disappointed than he is.  Guess we aren't as young as I thought.
In any case I am posting his application here for you to enjoy.

Why should you be the face of y'all?
I am a husband, a father, a son, a brother, a Marine, an alumnus, a Gamecock; I am the face of Y’ALL. Like so many other Carolina graduates, I have been a Gamecock since I was a young boy. I have loved, cheered for, and cried over our teams my whole life. I followed my passion to Columbia in 1999 and graduated cum laude with a degree in civil engineering in 2003. That very same day, I was commissioned by my uncle as a second lieutenant in the United States Marine Corps. While we didn’t all follow the same career path, we have all been living as ambassadors for our alma mater since the day we walked across the stage.
During the past 7 years as a Marine Corps pilot I have taken my pride in and passion for Carolina and the lessons I learned there into the cock pit and half-way around the world. With a gamecock on my helmet, I have flown the V-22 Osprey into combat in Iraq, on relief missions in Haiti, and in support of our forces off the coast of Africa. The Carolina flag has even found itself flapping in the winds of an Iraqi sandstorm and hanging on a wall of the USS Nassau . Late at night, in the ready room of a naval ship, half a world away, I saw our baseball team win the college world series. I spent my first weekend home from my last deployment in Williams-Brice Stadium enjoying the sound of 2001 as I watched the Gamecock football team run onto the field amidst a cheering crowd excited for the promise of an incredible season. I checked the status updates on my phone while training in Arizona as our football team beat Alabama this year. And even now, I am cheering our basketball team to victory as I help my squadron prepare to deploy to Afghanistan this summer. I am the face of Y’ALL.

Just like so many other Carolina graduates around the country and around the world, I am leaving a legacy; a legacy of service, a legacy of pride, a legacy of tradition, and a legacy of honor. I am proof that a dream can be realized, that perseverance pays off, and that hard work has its rewards. I am proof that the University of South Carolina educates and grooms young men and women who will leave a legacy. I am the face of Y’ALL.

What would you say to over 47,000 alumni and friends who made a gift last year?
A wiser man than me once said, “Our children are the gift we leave to a time which we will not see.” I believe our legacy is the same, a gift we leave to a time which we will not see. The change in the world we want to see and choose to make, the imprint we leave on those around us and those we love, the life we choose to live for the betterment of others; these things create our legacy.
I am leaving a legacy because those who came before me chose to leave a legacy. Years ago, someone sitting in your seat chose to support the University of South Carolina. With their simple donation, they were investing in a dream, not their own, but the dream of a young man who years before had decided he wanted to be “Top Gun.”

My dad always jokes about how parents should be careful which movies they allow their children to see. This doesn’t have much to do with ratings, but it has everything to do with dreams; because my dream to be a military pilot started in the living room of my parents’ home as we watched Top Gun. As a 10-year-old, my dream was based on Tom Cruise’s cool factor; the great glasses, the pretty girl, the awesome motorcycle, and of course the jet. But as I got older a sense of tradition, honor, and service to my country began to take root. I realized my dream had more to do with the legacy great men like my grandfather, a career marine, left; and the legacy I want to leave for future generations. What I didn’t realize at the time was the importance of the legacy alumni from the University of South Carolina chose to leave.

Because generous people with a passion for their Gamecocks and a passion for education chose to invest in the University of South Carolina, they were choosing to invest in my future. They insured that the Carolina I attended was even better than the Carolina they had left. They don’t know me, they don’t know the others who graduated with me, and they don’t know the students here today. What they do know is that they want others to have an even better experience and an even better education than the one they received, and in so doing they leave a legacy.

It’s much like the work I do in the Marine Corps. Marines before me, like my grandfather, made investments in our Corps and in our country. These investments came at a high price, for some, the ultimate price. These great men and women knew they may never see the returns on their investment, but they did it anyway. They were leaving a legacy for me, for all of us, so that our lives might be a little better. With that same thought, I invest to leave a legacy to those Marines and Americans who come after me. I also invest in the University of South Carolina with the hope that I am paying forward the investment made for me.

So when you are thinking of whether or not to donate to the University of South Carolina, think of your own experience here. Think of the number of donations, small and large, that it took to make Carolina the place you remember it to be. Think of what it takes to make Carolina the place it is today. What kind of legacy do you want to leave?

Ronald Reagan once said, “Some people spend an entire lifetime wondering if they’ve made a difference in the world. But, the Marines don’t have that problem.” While I believe President Reagan was right, I also believe that applies to those who donate to this great university. You don’t have to look far to know that your investment made a difference; your legacy matters. To those of you who donated before 2003, I stand before you as a testament to the legacy you chose to leave. I graduated cum laude with a degree in civil engineering. I attended Carolina on scholarships, some of which were possible because of your donations. The day I graduated I was commissioned as a lieutenant in the United States Marine Corps. I attended The Basic School in Quantico, VA, from there I went to flight school and earned my wings as an MV-22 Osprey pilot. I have since deployed twice and attended Weapons and Tactics Instructor Training, which is the Marine Corps version of Top Gun. While I am not here to belittle the hard work I’ve done and the contributions of my family, know that your choice to give to Carolina allows me to stand before you today as a man who has realized his dream. I am part of your legacy. I am the face of Y’ALL.

How do you carry out the spirit of Carolina today?
My freshman year at the University of South Carolina was the year our football team was 0-11. My wife, who was a freshman the same year, always tells the story of calling her dad and asking him if she should be concerned because the fans were cheering for a first down. But I think that one action demonstrates most completely the spirit of Carolina. It is a spirit of passion, undying hope, and perseverance in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds. It is the electricity you feel as the student section at Williams Brice vibrates with excitement and energy just as 2001 is about to play. It is the whisper of fall leaves as they blow through the Horseshoe while students study, question, and discover. It is the apprehension in a parent’s eye on move-in day and the prideful tear at graduation. The spirit of Carolina never dies, but lives on through its alumni.

I so often find myself living out this spirit, whether it’s at a Carolina game feeling the same excitement I did as a student; reminding my 3-year-old son that he can do anything he puts his mind to; or bringing my plane in for a night landing on the deck of a dimly lit ship in the middle of the ocean. It is the spirit I saw flying relief missions in Haiti and combat missions in Iraq. It is the spirit I feel as I study for a flight and train for a deployment. It is the spirit I see as my toddler comes running in the den, with his Carolina t-shirt on, shouting, “Go Gamecocks!” It is this Carolina spirit that keeps me always cheering for, always hoping for, and always expecting the best.

A Ho-Hum Day

Believe it or not, it was actually supposed to rain in Yuma today. I didn't believe it until I walked outside and saw the looming clouds. Contingency plan: the bowling alley. However, in Yuma fashion, the clouds lingered, but no rain. So, I decided we'd go to the park so Collin could play since we may get trapped inside at any moment. Played at the park, home for a long nap and still lots of hours left to entertain him. The bowling alley was sounding like a good idea rain or no rain. I got him all excited about it and off we went. Only to learn when we got there that it is closed, Mon - Thurs. from 4:30 - 9 for a competitive kids' bowling league. We weren't even allowed to stay and watch because apparently it upsets the parents. Wow - I had no idea that competitive bowling was that big of a deal. And now, what was I supposed to do? We had only left the hotel room for an hour today. We were not going to last until bed time cooped up in the room. In addition to concern for my sanity, Collin was crushed. He looked up at me and asked, "why won't they let me play?" Ugh - tug at the heart strings.
I couldn't think of anything around that would make it better. Then, like a light bulb: Chuck E Cheese. So, off we went for our impromptu date. He loved it!! Some pizza and basketball, cars, skeeball and so much more made all well with the world. Especially when my little cowboy saw the horse.

Then we topped it off with a trip to the ice cream store. It will never cease to amaze me how easily a ho-hum day can morph into an extraordinary day for a toddler, and his mom.

Lessons Learned in Yuma

We've been in Yuma for two weeks now, with two weeks left to go. We've visited almost every park in town, gotten to know the local shopping centers quite well, seen camels, visited the pool, played by the Colorado River and jumped aboard a Southern Pacific railcar. Whew! It's been a great time, and there's still much more in store for our final days here. In the midst of it all something "hit" me the other day. We've done more here than we ever do in Jacksonville.
This is a town that doesn't look like it has much to offer. It really was just dropped in the middle of the desert. The shopping isn't that great and there isn't much in the way of attractions. Yet, I realized we have had a fun-filled time here.
I am always willing to admit that entertaining a toddler is significantly easier than entertaining an older child. However, I was worried when we came out here that we'd both be bored out of our minds. Robert is working 12 - 15 hours a day, six days a week. I don't have a house to "keep." Not much in the way of errands to run. No appointments scheduled, no time at the gym. All of the things that end up consuming our daily lives back home just don't exist when we live in a hotel. Knowing the potential for boredom I researched and talked to friends who live here. I committed to getting Collin out on the move for an adventure at least once a day. That's what we've done. So I'm left wondering what all we miss when we're in Jacksonville.
A good friend of mine does an excellent job at planning weekend adventures for her children. I've always envied her as I read a blog post about their trip to an art museum, or a Saturday morning farmer's market. She enriches their family time with such exciting, and educational outings. In my envy I just tell myself that it's because she lives in a big city where these are more readily available. What I've learned is that we can have the same enriching adventures, it may just take a little more research.
Since we live in Jacksonville I never felt the need to research fun adventures. We just go on about our daily lives, Collin goes to school, plays with his friends, and so on. Then, what will end up happening is that when it's time for us to move we'll be running around trying to "do" all of the things around to do. So, I've decided to plan adventures in Jacksonville as if we are visiting the area. I'm going to research parks, sites, aquariums, historical landmarks (there are a lot), nature trails, anything to give Collin a chance to know his home, have fun, and maybe learn something.
So, if you're bored in your town or just tired of the "rut" get online and then get out of the house. There's just got to be something to do.

Is it a zebra, or a donkey????

No, it's a zedonk. Yes, that is the real name of this animal. It has stripes like a zebra, but the gray coloring (instead of white) and size of a donkey. It was fascinating. So were some of the other "exotic" animals at The Camel Farm in Yuma. We enjoyed our Sunday with Robert walking through the park of animals, most of which we had never seen. It was all a little rustic, but we had a blast!! Collin loved running from one animal to the next with his cup of alfalfa cubes. He wasn't completely sure what he thought about the animals eating out of his hand. He thought it was better to just throw them into the pens.
We saw an ostrich, a coati, different types of goats, sheep, deer, and of course camels. It is supposed to be home to the largest herd of camels in the United States. I'm guessing there aren't too many camels in the US considering there were only about 10 at this park. All the same, just one would have been more camels than any of us had ever seen.
While I know it won't always be so easy, right now keeping Collin entertained and squeaking out quality family time is a breeze. $13 and a little over an hour and he was a happy boy, and we were happy parents.

Roxaboxen

Forever immortalized in a children's book, Roxaboxen Park sits atop a small hill in a neighborhood in Yuma, AZ. With completely romantic notions of taking Collin and having him pretend and play like the children in the book we went to Roxaboxen. I knew we would find a hill of rocks in the middle of, well let's say, a neighborhood in which I would not purchase a home. However, I thought my toddler's memory and imagination would spring to life when he saw it. We had read the book multiple times with him oohing and aahing at the pictures. I had excitedly and eloquently explained the art of make believe and what the children had been able to create in Roxaboxen. Yet, when we arrived all he could say was, "Ooh, cool, rocks!"


It was neat that there were still some larger rocks fashioned in the same way the children in the story had placed them. Though I'm sure it was the work of someone who has read the book and visited. Not included in the book was the man passed out behind a bench. Collin saw him and very loudly says, "Is he sleeping? Why is he sleeping there? Hi! What's your name?" All of that spilled out of his mouth before I could stop him. YIKES!












So, this is the famous (or not so famous) Roxaboxen park. In spite of its lack luster appearance it was well worth the trip. Just a neat little adventure, and the first of many times Collin and I can read about something in a book and then go see it first-hand.

Parks, Parks and More Parks

Maybe I really could have a future writing for the Yuma Visitor's Bureau. It really isn't that hot here :)
The weather has been gorgeous since we arrived; refreshing mornings, warm afternoons with a cool breeze, and cool evenings. Despite the gross overuse of the color brown the landscape is beautiful. Ok, so the dirt that is used instead of grass isn't that great, but the mountains that border the town are gorgeous. The varied hues that paint the sky at sunset and wrap themselves around the mountains are fantastic. But the best part, at least for anyone with a toddler, is the parks!
This city has spent a large amount of money creating and maintaing its parks. While we have only visited a few so far, they have not disappointed.
The Gateway Park is located on the Colorado River. Granted, this portion of the river doesn't look like anything special, but it's still the Colorado River. There is a swimming area, multiple picnic areas, plenty of room to run,

and a covered playground. Now, this is the most genious idea ever. Every town that gets hit with scorching heat and blistering rays needs these. The canopy not only shades the children while they play, but more importantly, shades the equipment. This way it's not hot to the touch. Did I mention I think this is genious!

To top it all off the Gateway Park is home to a Southern Pacific Railroad engine. Collin loved this! He thought the train itself was much more fascinating than my history lesson. He could climb, and sit, and pull levers, and run, and could even fit underneath. He's pretty sure this train is Thomas (even though it's not blue), and that Yuma is the coolest town ever.

The next park we found is the West Wetlands Park, or the Castle Park (as Collin has now named it). This was unbelievable. I have never seen anything like this that wasn't in some sort of an amusement park. Built for children from tots to teens (ok, so the teens might be a stretch unless they got a good game of hide n seek going with their friends) this park is great. The castle and fortress behind are built like mazes on the inside that lead to slides, monkey bars, swings, bridges and jumping boards.

One of the slides even opens up as a dragon's mouth.

There are trails that lead to "nature" sites in the surrounding wetlands. Plenty of places to go on a nature walk and other, less interesting equipment configurations.

So, next week we are off to a local park which was memorialized in a children's book. We'll be reading the book together then off on our adventure to see it in person. We'll also be scoping on the exotic animal park, the territorial prison and a wild west show. Stay tuned.

A Dream Deferred

Every now and then my still burning passion for television journalism and that "fab" career flares up unexpectedly. Sometimes it comes from watching a reporter who should really find another career field, other times it comes from hearing the stories of friends who are "making it," and still other days it might come from the question of an old friend asking, what have you been up to?
For those of you who know me well, you remember a time when motherhood was nothing more than a fleeting thought for me. Something to check off on the list of things "to do" in a successful life. For years my career was my driving force and focus. As far back as my senior year of high school I remember plotting, planning, taking careful steps to insure that one day I'd be swinging through studio doors in New York City, or working on Capitol Hill. I could hear the Kelly Clarkson song ringing in my ears - "Buildings with a hundred floors, swinging with revolving doors, maybe I don't know where they'll take me, but I gotta keep movin' on, movin' on. Fly away, breakaway...I'll spread my wings and I'll learn how to fly."
And fly I did, off to school, a White House internship and the fast track to a career that, even on the worst day, was still great.
As I sit here, not a television reporter, but very blessed to have experienced it, even if for a moment; I wonder what happens to a dream deferred. Does it really shrivel up like a raisin in the sun? Does it really rot? I contend that it does neither. I think a dream deferred grows and matures. I think takes root in things more important than impressions, fame and self -importance. Sometimes, it may even change.
Today I am in a hotel room in Arizona, trying to squeak some family time out of a crazy, military life. I realize that now another song is ringing in my ear - "I'm letting go of the life I planned for me and my dreams. I'm losing control of my destiny. It feels like I'm falling and that's what it's like to believe. So I'm letting go. This is a giant leap of faith. Trusting and trying to embrace."
What I couldn't have imagined as the focused college student or driven professional is the joy and satisfaction that comes from being a wife and a mom. As simple as it seems, and almost embarrassing, in this "she woman, hear me roar" world, it is what it is. I am happy and mostly fulfilled with my current job - wife and mom. I can say mostly fulfilled b/c even on their best days no job is completely fulfilling. No one thing was ever meant to be, but that's a post for another day.
In the end, it's hard to believe that before I've even turned 30 (yes, i'm NOT there yet) that a dream could be completely gone. There is no telling what the future holds. I couldn't have imagined being where I am, and maybe that's part of the excitement. I can sit and plan all day, and still not have a clue about what is going to happen next. Do I think this burning desire that I still have is just to inflict pain? No. Do I think I'll be anchoring the network evening news? Hmmm....probably not. Do I think that this drive and passion will go to waste? Not a chance. I do know this, my experience and education makes me one of the most over-qualified stay-at-home moms around, but it also makes me good at my job. Because without hesitation, any day of the week, I can tell you, I am a mom and I am GREAT at my job.
So, what happens to a dream deferred - we'll just have to wait and see.

Football Season is Here

It's a beautiful sight to behold. There is not much better than Carolina football, and there we were for the first game of the season. I still get chills when they play 2001 and the players come running onto the field. It's amazing just how electric that stadium can get during a game.

We are loving our new seats and so excited to make it back for the Arkansas game. We did realize that we are going to have to get more than 2 tickets soon, because Collin loves to watch football and neither mom nor dad are willing to give up a seat :)

First Day of Preschool

It's official - Collin has started school. Ok, so it's only 2 days a week for a few hours, but it's "real" school. We went and met his teachers, and got a little list of things he needed. So, it was off for school supply shopping. Mom wanted to get the cute Pottery Barn Kids bookbag with Collin's monogram on it. As you can see below Mom lost that battle. Standing in the middle of Target Collin picked up the Toy Story bookbag, squeeled as he put it on, then with a huge smile, shrugged his shoulders and said, "This is just right." How do you say no to that??

Just a few days later he was off for his first day of school. It was way harder on mom than Collin. As much as I joke about him never looking back (which he didn't), I'm glad he is so confident and comfortable that he wants to experience new things on his own. I also know it means that he is certain I am coming back for him. Oh that we might all have someone we love and trust that much.

Collin is learning new songs every day and is studying the number one, the color red and learning to use scissors - aaahhhh!!! Don't ever dismiss the job of a preschool teacher she/he is doing something most of us would never do - teach ten 2 1/2 year olds how to use scissors, and so much more.

The Craziness...

that is my life. I'm starting to wonder how I ever had time to work. Ok, so that is a little dramatic. I am the first to admit that I lead a life of relative leisure since I resigned from teaching last year. However, my life still is, none the less, crazy.

In the past 4 weeks we have welcomed Robert home only to see him off again. But, we were able to pack in a ton of family time before he left. I was spending time with my guys instead of blogging, so here's a recap.

Thanks to a little help from my sister we had a wonderful vacation at the beach. Collin loved playing in the pool with daddy, and really isn't interested in water that doesn't have an appropriate ledge from which to jump. We took Collin to see his first movie in a theatre - Toy Story 3, of course. We went to the park, worked in the yard, watched pre-season football and just had a wonderful time being a family. Fortunately this latest trip won't be as long.

Playtime

This is my view from the couch as I sit back and enjoy watching my guys play with legos and Mr. Potato Head. This picture brings about the most amazing feelings of happiness, relief and love. My husband is home and my family is whole. Even if the time is short, it is wonderful!

Alone

Believe it or not, with all of the fan fare and people at the hangar to welcome home the men and women of VMM-162 some marines went home alone. It was such a sobering sight as I held on to my husband and watched this young man walk away alone.

He is just one of a handful of marines that returned home with no one there to greet him. Regardless of the reason(s) why no one was there for him he still returned from deployment to no one.

While all members of the armed forces deserve your gratitude and thanks, men and women like this deserve it most. Not because they are any better at their job or any braver, but because they do it all with little or no support and thanks at home.

WELCOME HOME MARINE! JOB WELL DONE! THANK YOU!

Never Underestimate...

...the power of the written word. In our world of technology and an ever shrinking world we have more "friends" than ever, and yet, we are more alone than ever. In our busy lives it seems we don't even have time to smile at each other, much less write. Despite this truth, this week I saw a show of such great thanks and appreciation come pouring into my living room floor.

About two weeks ago I took on the project of helping to welcome home the single marines in Robert's squadron. We had more than 200 young men and women who would be coming home to the barracks. Some had family in town, but not all. So, I set to securing more than 200 dozen homemade cookies (never underestimate the power of women on a mission - thanks ladies!) and a thank you note to go with each of them. With one click of the mouse the email was out and the responses came as quickly.

Men and women across this country so excited and honored for the opportunity to express their gratitude to young men and women they will never meet sent letters of thanks. Some came with pictures, some in emails, some on index cards and some in beautiful envelopes; all filled with such pride and emotion for these "kids" who risk their lives so that we may continue to live ours as we wish. One of the neatest ones said this, "If you ever wonder who you are fighting for I've included a picture of my children."

In the end I received over 600 thank you notes in just a little more than a week, most from people I don't even know. The single marines received a package of letters, as opposed to just one. While myself and those who wrote, will never hear an audible thank you or get the joy of seeing the look on a 20-year-old's face as he/she sits in a barracks room alone to read the greatfulness of a nation; we know to never underestimate the power of the written word.

And Daddy Makes 3!!

On what can only be described as the HOTTEST and MOST HUMID day of August we waited...and waited...and waited. Sweating more than I do at the gym and Collin soaked to the bone we searched the skies for Robert's plane. Ok, so Collin tuckered out and I searched.
Then from over the horizon we saw them. Finally, after 7 months they were overhead and coming home! Flying in a beautiful formation with Flight of the Valkyries playing in the background the Ospreys flew in to MCAS New River.

After a parade rest shut-down, and a formation the Marines were released to find their families; and we were anxiously waiting. The anticipation was over and a I felt a flood of relief as Robert snuck up behind us.

Kisses and hugs for everyone, and our family is back together. Our undying thanks and greatfulness to our friends and family who have supported us and prayed for us during this time. It is one of the things that gave us the strength to make it through. Just remember, they aren't all home and some are returning soon. Never stop praying for our military members.

Your People Will be My People

Ruth replied, "Don't urge me to leave you or to turn back from you. Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God. (Ruth 1:16).

While it may seem odd to be thinking of this nearly 5 months before our anniversary, it is often present in my mind due to the interesting lifestyle we have set-up for ourselves; and because I read a devotion today in regards to this very verse. Here is my adaptation of the author's thoughts (some lines are used verbatim).


It's been almost 7 years since my grand-mother stood before a crowded chapel of witnesses and read those words (Ruth 1:16), as I promised to love and honor my husband no matter what. When I made this promise, I meant it. I just didn't realize what it meant at the time. I wasn't thinking deployments, multiple careers (of mine), 7 moves in half as many years, and holidays trying to split time equally. But I would learn.
I have been learning through doing. What I promised then, I am living out now. Nearly a decade, various cities, and a child later I am learning that marriage is a committment of super glue proportions. And it's the committment that sticks even when the feelings ebb and flow. That's the beauty and courage of marriage.

Penny-pinching so you can accompany on an un-accompanied assignment. Going to family events (weddings, birthdays, graduations...) alone?
Your people will be my people.
Strange accents, foods, politics and television preferences?
Your people will be my people.
Death, divorce, and adoption?
Your people will be my people.
Trying to understand the purpose of sitting silently in the woods with a gun for an entire day?
Your people will be my people.

Because, after all, marriage is the ultimate parable, isn't it? It's the living picture of a God who looked at us in all our silly, selfish ways and then loved on us regardless, so that he could make US - His People. Amazing, crazy love. And all we have to say is, "I do."

So, now and forever, to both men in my life (God and my husband, to avoid confusion) - I DO!

(post adapted from (in)courage - http://www.incourageme.com/)

Chugga, Chugga, Choo-Choo

For those of you who do not have little boys you can't fully appreciate their fascination with trains. They love them, everything about them. They love the speed, the noise, the movement, the horns, the bells, the tracks, everything. Collin is no different.
We are very fortunate to have a train museum in Wilmington. As we embarked this morning with some friends to see the train museum I was a little nervous. It's one of those places that you know could be overrun with older folks who don't appreciate a child's energy. My fears were quickly assuaged when we got there.

It's kid friendly! There was even a play-room just for children. There was a model train that the boys could control, a wooden caboose in which they could play and toy trains galore. Then, there was an entire room of model trains set up for the boys to watch. It was wonderful. Collin and his friend had no interest in the museum part, but were quite excited when they realize there were also "real" trains on which they could play.

So, we ended our outing playing on the real trains. The boys were happy and tired as we headed to lunch. It was a good day.

Take Me Out to the Ball Game

Collin watched his first, live baseball game this weekend. He got to see The Citadel (my dad's alma mater) play Elon in the Southern Conference Tournament. It turned out to be a great day. Collin was much more immune to the elements than the adults were, but inspite of the sweat and exhausting heat we made it through almost the entire game.

Collin thoroughly enjoyed his hotdog and french fries. He's not 100% sure about boiled peanuts, since he thinks you are supposed to eat the whole thing :) He watched a few minutes of the game at a time, every few plays. he was much more interested in the food. He also was not very interested in having his picture taken, hence just one for this post.

The Citadel was not playing well and we were all roasting. Not to mention our sleepy 2 year old had had enough. So, bottom of the 9th with 2 outs we left. As we exited the stadium the place erupts with cheers. We made a mad dash to the car to find out what happened. Sure enough, with 2 outs an error by Elon's pitcher allows 3 runs, ties the game and sends it to a 10th inning and The Citadel pulls out the win. GO BULLDOGS!!!!

As a Carolina fan I should know NEVER to leave early :)

Cute Cousins

It was fun in the sun this weekend for these cute cousins.

Collin and I were so excited to have his Aunt Erika and Stella come to visit. They got in Friday and were able to stay with us until Sunday afternoon. It was a great weekend. We didn't rush to do anything. We had time to just visit and play outside - yes, the mommies went too :)
The kiddos enjoyed digging in the sand box and playing in the water.





















And posing for pictures. Ok, they didn't really enjoy posing for pictures. We had to take 10 just to get one to turn out. But they humored us every now and then. In the end they just had a great time running around and playing together.
It must have been tiring work, because at the end of the day they were exhausted.
We can't wait to see Aunt Erika and Stella again in June. We're hoping that Uncle Brian, Nana and Grandaddy will be there too. I think we'll even get to go to the zoo :)

Fun with Friends

It is definitely summer time! The temperature is rising and the water activities have started.
In a rare moment at my home it was 4 against one (God Bless you all who have more than one child). Collin was in 7th heaven. He had 3 friends spend the day with us and we all had a blast. The slip n' slide island was running, along with the plastic pool. Don't forget about the sand box and pirate fort if fingers were too pruned. The kids enjoyed diving straight into the ground in an attempt to slide through the water.
Then it was to the pool! They would kick water, dump water, put sand in the water, try to put Zach (the dog) in the water. It was great fun to watch. They definitely ran/swam off all of their energy.











Because once inside they were quiet and zoned out. It made for a wonderful day!!

Time with Papa

Collin has spent a lot of time with his Papa since we got to Florida, however this was the first trip girls were allowed to follow. So, this is the first trip that has photographs :)
Our last Saturday here we spent at the aquarium. We have visited so many times because we have a year pass. Collin loves it too :) He really enjoyed showing my dad around, since Collin is now a regular there. He pointed out all of the big fish, turtles and eels swimming in a coral reef.
Then, it was off to try to find the "hidden" fish in the tank. We saw sharks, crabs, jellyfish, Dory, Nemo and lots of other fish from the sea.










We even watched a scuba diver swim in the one of the tanks. Ok, so that show was a little disappointing and Collin could not have been less interested. It was a great day though! Collin even wore his Tampa Bay Rays hat. This is a big deal for two reasons. 1 - the Rays have the best record in franchise history, and the best record in the league, 2 - Collin never wears a hat. He always takes them right off. He is really weird about things on his head, but he loves this hat.

So, he and his Papa have matching baseball hats.

Sunset and Snow

Yes, the title says snow. There wasn't really any snow in Florida. However, when we went to the beach to watch the sun set Collin grabbed handfuls of sand, threw it in the air, and yelled, "snow!" I guess the last time he saw everything covered in white it was snowing. Just funny that this little boy from coastal Carolina, who only sees snow once a year and sees sand way more, thought the beach was snow. I'm sure everyone standing around thought this little boy was from way up north and seeing a sand covered beach for the first time. Too funny.

It was, however, a great end to a wonderful day. We concluded our fun-filled day of shopping with dinner at sunset on the beach. It was beautiful and good for the soul.

We live in a Sand Box

Per the previous post you know that Collin has a sandbox. You also know I have some slight obsessive compulsive tendencies about cleanliness. One of those is that I do not like sand. I LOVE the beach, but I can't stand sand. It only belongs on the feet. I constantly brush off my beach chair, am meticulous about having extra towels so I don't dry off with a sandy one. I don't hold Collin close to me when we're at the beach unless he's in a towel. Now, before you go crazy about what a fun draining mom I am, I am working on this. I will say I am getting better. I think even my own Mom (who LOVES sand) would say I'm getting better :) I would think so since we've been living in a sandbox since we got to Florida. While Collin is awfully tidy he has not caught on to the notion of wiping his hands and feet (and face, head, legs, arms, rear end, etc...) before coming in. So, he will play for hours outside and bring it all in with him. There is sand everywhere - and we're cleaning. You can feel it when walk barefoot or sit on the couch. AAAHHHHH!!! The funny part is that we will sweep or the cleaning lady will come and within minutes of finishing here comes our sandman. I don't recall ever getting away with this type of thing when I was child, and yet here is my child trekking "mess" all over the house. Even Papa is in on the action. Note, I am not in the sandbox. I haven't gotten that good yet.

The sins of the father...or, in this case, the mother

I am not the best housekeeper in the world. I don't like to unload the dishwasher, so sometimes dishes pile up, rinsed of course, in the sink. A few times a week toys don't get picked up before bed time, and clothes aren't put in their rightful place immediately. Important mail can, every so often, make a temporary home on the kitchen counter. With all that said, I have come to realize that I do have some obsessive compulsive tendencies when it comes to cleanliness. I have learned these things through the tendencies of my own child.

We are spending some time with my parents and they have set up a play area for Collin in the backyard, complete with a sandbox. Oh boy!

When we first arrived he would not go outside without his shoes on. When he finally did, he kept saying, "oh messy," "it's dirty." I can hear my words coming back to haunt him. My child has no clue how to play in the dirt b/c everytime he has gotten dirty his mother rushes in to clean him up. Then, we caught him sweeping the ground around his sandbox. Aaahhh!!!! While, I love his tendencies for tidiness and truly hope they will stay with him throughout his years in my home, I am also convinced that all children need to play in the dirt. So, we have worked very hard at making the mess ok. Though he still enjoys sweeping the ground, he does it with sand and dirt and mud from head to toe

The Red Barn

The name surely implies a big barn full of different types of farm animals. The perfect outing for a two-year-old boy, right? Well, I'm not sure that a series of stores full of home decor and antiques is exactly what Collin had in mind.











At least there was a little reprieve for him. He really enjoyed the open, "garden" area around the pond behind the barn. He was such a trooper.











He behaved so well. I surely didn't expect anything less, but all of the ladies working at the Red Barn were impressed. One of them even gave Collin some M&Ms for his excellent behavior. It was a great afternoon, at least for me and my mom. Collin was just relieved when we got home and he could play in the sand box.

Just Keep Swimming, Just Keep Swimming....

We have spent the last few weeks with my parents, at their home in Florida. My mother loves all things ocean. So, it is no surprise that her favorite Disney movie is "Finding Nemo." She has been watching it with Collin almost everyday since we got here (not in its entirety of course since my two-year-old doesn't have that long of an attention span). Needless to say, at this point, he loves Dory, Nemo and Nemo's Daddy. Thus, our trip to the aquarium took on a whole new meaning as he desperately searched for Nemo. If you look closely enough at the first picture, you see he found him :)

Collin loves the aquarium. He went from tank to tank singing, "just keep swimming. just keep swimming." I think the blowfish enjoyed the song. He followed Collin all along the wall of the tank. I'm not sure what Collin would have done though if the blowfish had actually "blown up." It was amazing though how accurate the Nemo movie is. Collin was able to point out each fish. There was a tank of sea anenomes with little clown fish hiding in them. It really was incredible, and even more so to see it through the eyes of an ever amazed toddler.


We topped off the day at the toddler splash park the aquarium has. It's perfect, and the most genius idea. With no standing water, children can run through misting water that comes out of every step, corner and plank. Then there are water guns (think cannon:), water spouts, water slides. Everything perfectly sized for the little guys. Though Collin is a little wary of shooting, falling, misting or splashing water - he loved it. Once he ralized the fountains wouldn't hurt he was jumping on each one, laughing. What a great day!!