Owen is 1

 When did that happen?  All of a sudden he's a little man.  He's walking everywhere, grew his fifth tooth a few days ago, and almost always eats more than his brother.  He loves his mommy, adores grandpa and grandma, thinks Dad is the most fun, and aspires to be just like his big brother {which means trouble for us in a couple of years!}.  He loves dancing and singing.  I'm pretty sure he's going to be my little musician.  Lately, he's been trying to verbalize a lot more, sometimes he gets his words pretty spot on.  His usual go-to words are mama, dada, this, done, eat.  He's had the tendency to say difficult words like, "virtue" when we start with the old adage, "Patience is a....." but it's still kind of hit and miss there.  We had two of his fave meals today {mac and cheese for lunch, Spaghetti for dinner}, gave him a chocolate cupcake to smash/eat, and a box of Hot Wheels cars to celebrate.  He looooves his cars, tractors, or really anything that he can make a "bbbb" motor sound for.  Another reason for loving the cars, he can just hold them in his hand.  All day.  Seriously, he's gone hours just holding a car (or a small ball, or circle puzzle piece, or other small object) in his hand. never letting it go. Fascinating.  I don't understand the psychology behind that one yet, but it sure is cute!  Happy first birthday to our little cuddle-bug, chub-a-lubs.  We couldn't be happier to have you as a part of our family.  Thank you for being a part of our lives!

And, here's a video of Owen playing with his cars.  He makes the cutest face when he makes his "bbbb" sound.  Please excuse my terrible grammar, "What do you got Owen?"  I'm so embarrassed!

Fantasy football time

This time of year brings fantasy football to our household.  Blake does 2+ different leagues every year, and takes each one very seriously.  He has a whole set up.  A blank roster sheet so he can fill in his draft picks, a top 200 hundred player ranking sheet with his ideal choices highlighted and color coded by field positions and defenses, some other stats jotted down in pen, his laptop, a beer, and a day-long, "you better not make me late for my draft" attitude. Yep. Watch out world.  This stuff is serious around here!

Groceries

Grocery shopping with my boys can sometimes take forever.  Owen likes to push the cart, Isaac likes to ride in the basket, and Blake is usually eyeing some goodies.

I promise

To resume Thursday deals next week! :)

I also want to finish Owen's alphabet book posts for you - I've already ordered the book, and it is awesome!

But, here's a sweet picture from my visit to Taiwan.  Love those people!

Every once in awhile

Every once in awhile, you meet people who can bring sunshine into the rain, smiles out of sadness, and laughter from tears.  And, in one giant bear hug, all that matters is that this person genuinely loves life and the people in their life.  Any moment with that person is the best moment of that person's day.  Tomorrow, my family will bid farewell to one of those people.  Rest in peace, Patrick.  May the angels speed you to paradise.  Watch over us always.  I'll always wish for one more of your hugs, one more of your smiles, and one more smart comment to make Susan snort. :)

Forgetful

Everyone tells me that you get more forgetful as you get older.  I'm in so much trouble.  I forget my keys frequently, I often lose/forget where I put my camera transfer cord, and I have even managed to forget to show up to play for a couple of masses in the past!  Tonight, on yet another search for my camera cord, I discovered that my CAMERA itself is MIA.  Well, I was at a wedding on Saturday.  I took pictures at the church and none afterward.  I can picture the last moment I saw my camera (sitting on the organ bench at this church), so I'm hoping it is still there.  Looks like I'm making some phone calls in the morning.  Ugh...so frustrating!

In peace

After my last post, we were able to work it out so that I did end up going to Taiwan to offer my mom her support and pay my respects to my grandmother.  I returned state-side today, and learned of my young uncle's passing.  Just a reminder that you never know what can happen. I hugged my family extra close when I was re-united with them this evening. 

More thoughts on everything later.

She'll be missed

My grandmother passed away Sunday night (Monday morning Taiwan time).  Various members of my family are headed over to Taiwan now.  I am so sad, and wish I could be there to honor my grandmother and offer support to my mom.   She's going to need it.  

Thursday Deals - 8/4/2011

Happy Birthday to my big sis!

1. FREE sample of Purina Beneful Wagpack, plus they'll send you a FREE copy of their magazine, Wagworld.

2.  Ruby Tuesday is offering 2 FREE mini burgers with fries when you purchase two nonalcoholic beverages.  You have to like them on Facebook to claim the coupon, and there limited amounts.  Details here.

3. FREE Post-It products sample here.  You need to sign up for Post-It perks, but still a good deal!

4.  FREE Sun-maid recipe booklet here.

5. Snag 5 Gifts to Grow points with code BABYISDUEANYDAY

6.  $10 off $25 at JCPenney with this coupon through August 6!

7. Get FREE fries and a drink at Arby's with this coupon when you purchase an Angus Cool Deli sandwich or wrap.

8.  Request your FREE sample of Huggies Snug & Dry diapers here.

Owen's Alphabet Book - I, J