1. The DVR. Ok Ok, so I technically didn't even have this long before I had Grant, but it is definately something I don't remember what I did without. If it wasn't for the DVR, I wouldn't be able to stay awake for those late night feedings. I taped the entire series of 90210 and watched it at 2am feeding time. I was so into it and I literally started to think my husband was looking more like Luke Perry
2. The Crock Pot. So much you can do with it (if I was just a better planner!). I don't use it as much as I like, but I love it when I come home and don't have to think about 'what's for dinner?' See the blog I follow where a woman used her crock pot every day for a year. There must be SOMETHING you can eat on there!
3. The Shark. I just got it a month ago, but I can already see where it will be one of my favorite products. I can clean my floors without that GROSS mop and bucket. Its quicker, easier, and just more sanitary. I could see a real difference on my floors the first time I used it.
4. The Portable DVD Player. We got one free back when we got married when we signed up for DirecTV. It had never been used until our son became a toddler. We found out this is the best way to keep him entertained in very long car rides. In fact, I saw "Robin Hood" 2 times on the way home from our Spring Break trip to see family. I'm pretty sure I can quote it line from line.
5. Laurie Berkner. Oh, Laurie! How I love thee! I was introduced to her via The Noggin network when I watched "Jack's Big Music Show" with my nephew. My son is now a fan of the show so we bought her CD of kid's songs. Every song is written and performed by her and each song has an interesting story behind how she came up with the funky and fresh songs. I found that I have even made up dances to go with her songs so I can dance with Grant. I'm excited to see if the Easter bunny brings another one of her CDs.
6. The digital camera. Even though mine is now DEAD (long story involving the camera and dirty dishes) I love the digital camera. I have a full fledged video camera but of course I can't carry around that thing 24/7. But with my digital camera, I can carry it with me and capture great moments. I just wish I was fast enough sometimes. I had a great moment to film today and by the time I turned my 'temporary' camera on, Grant stopped what he was doing. I think he's on to me!
7. The giant 'mommy' purse. They are not just for hiding goodies to carry into the movie theatre anymore!! In my purse, I now must have the following: wallet (not the cute little compact ones, must have room for checkbook!), cell phone (which I can never find when needed), pen, hand sanitizer wipes, mini-cosmetic pack (full of band-aids, nail file, nail clippers, and more hand sanitizer), pocket Bible (which I just again found the other day, it was MIA for awhile), pocket calender, Kleenex, and 2-3 cars, toys, etc. Do I need all of this all the time, well no, but I'm pretty sure I can now win that purse scavenger hunt game if I ever have to play it!
Is there anything you have come it appreciate???
Here is "B"'s little sister, "K". Such a sweet smile, again holding onto her blanket we made.
I got a stomach bug that had traveled around the children the week before, halfway through the week long trip. For about 2 days, you could see me with constantly with Sprite in my hand. I remember that this night I was so glad to be out of bed and back with the kids. Pictured is Anna and "S" and "M" (yes, I still remember their names!)
Our electricity went out for about 2 and a half days so we camped out at my parents home. One day while Grant was napping, Daniel and I put together a our 'snow-woman'.
When Grant woke up, he was ready to play!
By the way, when it got this cold, I realized I did NOT have the proper cold weather attire. I had to borrow Daniel's hunting gear..haha
Fletcher got himself a balloon sword which he was very proud of. Very much a boy's boy just like Grant is turning out to be!
I bought this 'magic backpack' as an extra hand for Grant in crowded situations. He is good about holding hands for about 90% of the time but I want him to have a little freedom as well. Ok, so it does look like a leash and Fletcher wanted to take the reigns for a while. Poor guy needs a puppy I think!
No 'magic backpack' here! There was a great playground at the ballpark and he was having a blast!
Finally, my favorite picture from the day. Fletcher helped Grant get to the top of the playground at Chick-Fil-A and I think he was so proud of himself. Oh, those dimples...they will break some hearts one day!