December Dailies: Day 11

Today I got back from another quick business trip. These trips will always and forever make me feel so sad, guilty and wrong for being away from my son for any amount of time. I always pray that nothing happens while I'm gone. Alas, it's reality and I've worked hard to make the best of it. 

As I had some time to kill at the San Diego airport today, I was perusing the airport store and ran across this ridiculously adorable bear. I immediately thought of Sawyer and how much he'd love it. Without question, I snatched up this tiny fortune and put him in my suitcase. About halfway through my flight home, the typical routine set in. I started to get giddy, started imagining walking in the door to Sawyer running to greet me with that sweet smile, arms wide open and plenty of stories about his day on the tip of his tongue. I SO look forward to this every time - coming home is the BEST part of business travel. The cutest thing is that sawyer is obsessed with airplanes and seems to completely grasp the concept of my packing my suitcase (which he's obsessed with) and getting on an airplane. This boy loves his planes. 

I decided to start a new tradition. At the end of every business trip, I'll get him a present from wherever I am, I'll put it in my suitcase, and let him fish it out when I get home. This is what I did tonight and he loved it. He loved getting to open my suitcase on his own and search out his new toy. 

I love that I get to make up whatever new traditions I want. I forget sometimes that I can, and should do that. And why not create a little silver lining to these trips? I also love the symbolism of bringing him back a treat from my travels, because he's the reason I deal with last minute travel and being away from my family - so I can build a better future for him. 

This kid is about to have a lot of San Diego and San Francisco swag. 

December Dailies: Day 10

Tough times in this old house. Man I can't wait for vacation in 2 weeks! I've been sick plenty of times but it's not often I'm so sick I can't hang and have to go home. This was one of those days. Luckily I had one sweet pup to cuddle, and I'm also, selfishly, very thankful that you're in preschool and I have the luxury to take a sick day. I know plenty of stay at home mamas who've got to work through this type of sickness. I'm thankful I only get to do that in the evening. 

Here's to a better back half of the month. 

December Dailies: Day 9

It's rare that something happens and I don't know what to do. Those motherly instincts have an amazing way of kicking in, most days. Tonight was a rare exception when I almost called my mommy to ask her what the heck I should do. We were chatting next to our awesome wood stove and you accidentally burned your arm. You've been hurt plenty of times (in fact, you've had a particularly accident prone month now that I think about it), but this time, I heard that terrifying scream cry and I knew it was serious. Luckily, your daddy saved the day and took over while I just totally froze up in the moment. Yay for daddies!! He stayed calm and wrapped your arm in a cold compress right away. You calmed down a bit but still weren't quite right. I finally caught up to daddy and gave you some Tylenol. After an hour and a quick trip to walgreens, you were on the mend. 

It's times like this I am so incredibly thankful for two things:

1. The resiliency of children, a healthy babe who will (hopefully) heal quickly and your ability to be easily distracted by the likes of an iPad. ;-)

2. Your daddy. It's true that two parents are better than one and your daddy is someone real special. We each contribute something different to this team and I am so thankful for his level-headed nature, incredible patience when it matters most, and his ability to step in and save the day when I need it. 

Also, you've hit your December quota on injuries. No more please. 

December Dailies: Day EIGHT.

8 days in and I'm already reeling with excitement for Christmas Day. It's pretty awesome what a different experience it is with a babe vs. just us, as a couple. It was super fun before you came along, now it's just super funnererer.
Today we went and hunted down a tree at our favorite spot up in the mountains. Daddy has been working like a madman, so we were lucky enough to steal him away for a Sunday afternoon to go tree hunting. We found THE PERFECT TREE, hitched it to our rig, and rolled on home. Of course, you hadn't napped, so you were a little sassy and not so into photos, which made for less than awesome pics (and likely no xmas photos, as a result, sorry y'all). This photo may actually end up just being our xmas card, bc it pretty much encapsulates what's happening right now with your sweet little attitude. We'll take your sass: We're telling ourselves it's the foundation for a strong resolve and perspective. Moving right along...
You had way too much fun decorating the tree, I couldn't hardly contain myself and neither could you. You were amazed at the lights, the ornaments, far too many times you said adorable things like:
"oh the lights are so beautiful, mom!"
"the tree is so big, it's perfect, mama!"
"Just look at that beautiful star at the top! That's amazing!"

You actually say these things, and I just can't hardly handle it.

You are so expressive, and present and in the moment. You remind me to just slow down and BE. Stop with the phone, the TV, the work email, and just BE. Hang out, pay attention, sit and be quiet. You keep me sane, bud, and I could not be more thankful for this thing that you do for me. I cooked daddy's favorite burritos, had some awesome wine, and watched you squeal over every perfect minute of this night.  Thanks for helping me NOT stress out about the day of madness that awaits me tomorrow.
Here's a few pics from our day. Another perfectly imperfect day. I would not have rather been anywhere else in the world but right here with you and our people.

Also, we got a super special treat: Your grandpa stopped by for a surprise visit and brought us the movie polar express!!! So we got to watch that magical movie while we dressed up the tree! We are constantly so thankful for our family who lives so close and today was no exception. We love you Grandpa! 

December Dailies: Day 7

After 2 days wine tasting in Walla Walla (unbelievably fantastic btw), I needed a break....for at least a few hours. Today you were kind enough to tag along and supervise mommy while I tasted some fresh Willamette Valley Pinots. A shipment had just arrived for me and I couldn't stand to leave my baby boy for one sec, so you came with me to pickup the goods. What a champ, dude. It was literally 18 degrees out and you handled it like the stud that you are. Thanks for being awesome, always. and may you FOREVER establish a love affair with chemistry. =)

December Dailies: Day 6

Man, you LOVE your puppies!! and they love you too!!
I got home tonight from my trip to find you wrestling around with these hounds. They're about as close as you get to having siblings, and it's pretty dang cute. You take such good care of them, you wish them a good morning and a good night every day, complete with loves and kisses, and they kiss you right back. I always knew I'd want dogs, and kids, but honestly never thought about how cute it would be to raise all of them together at the same time! Love you 3 kidlets.

December Dailies: Day 5

On Day 5, I was gallivanting around Walla Walla wine country while daddy took super good care of you. I asked him to send me something because I missed you like crazy, and here's what you were doing on 12/5/13:

 I die for that bitty giggle. too much.

December Dailies: Day 4

Life's busy right now. Running two huge pieces of business during each of their busiest time of the year is no joke! It makes our time together that much sweeter. After nonstop meetings all day long and barely dragging myself in the front door, you running in with that big beautiful smile and arms wide open makes my heart a little bigger each time. You're my reason for everything. I go to work every day with one mission: to build you the best future possible. You give thanks every day when you run to greet me at the door. And if I don't see you at night because I'm working too late...your sweet kisses and snuggles in the morning are all I need. You whispering "Good morning mama"...be still, my heart. 

Here's us, tonight, cuddled into bed together just hangin. 

The BEST. 

December Dailies: Day 3

This ain't pretty. If kids owies freak you out, stop here.

You came into our room this am and said your finger hurt.
In my professional experience, I've learned you'll come up with any excuse to get into bed with me. You ain't the first one, kiddo. Hah. I digress.
You crawled into my bed and cuddled up like the sweet little bug you are.
We woke up. Mommy, my finger hurts. again? I thought that was just a line to get me into bed? I scoped it, and woah. Woah dude, your poor little finger. So, I get it now. it's pusssssy, swollen, red, that's one miserable finger. I don't do well in these situations, esp when my babe is unhappy, I almost can't handle it. ok, so it's just the one finger.
He goes to the doc, doc says just watch it. Mom's not entirely happy with that result, but I'll deal. Sawyer goes back to school.
Just another tiny reminder of how much I love you. I will forever give anything to make you happy and keep you warm, happy and comfortable. I love you bud. Also, I'm totally in for it when you really do have a serious injury. May that never, ever happen. Get well soon, soldier. 

December Dailies: Day 2

Sawyer: "Daddy, I'm hungry, what are you making me?
Sawyer: "Daddy, what are you making me?
Repeat x4

Your favorite things for breakfast are:
Yogurt
Berries
String Cheese
Toast
hard boiled eggs
hard boiled eggs
hard boiled eggs

December Dailies: Post #1

I can't believe I'm doing it either - Just go with it. I am so insanely in love with this bunch I don't even know what to do with myself. Such a great day hunting for leaves and making a glorious breakfast.

Here's us at the park...aaand on the couch. Pretty much sums up our day. 

2.5, going on 7.

Seriously. This kid takes my breathe away. Every. Day!

Work is IN-SANE right now. I almost can’t breathe…but this little guy…oh my.  Bud, you make everything better. You give me purpose, comic relief..you bring me back to Earth when I forget that advertising is just...um…advertising. After 80 hrs/week, there isn't an ounce of me that's willing to apologize for locking us up in the suburbs and not going anywhere. Home is where the heart is, always.

What a rad dude.

You’re funny – inflection and timing are your strong suits… who knew? You were born with this uncanny ability to deliver a joke with the perfect timing, inflection, and response. You can thank your daddy later.

You’re compassionate. You don’t want to hurt anyone’s feelings, you want everyone to be happy and content.

You’re self-aware. You get it and understand when you’re in trouble. It’s funny, you can totally call it when you’re about to go to timeout – sometimes you put yourself there before we have a chance to. Doesn’t mean you don’t act up, but you correct yourself when you do. Awesome…you can find me napping in the other room. KThanksBye.

Favorites lately:

1. POTTY TRAINED!!! You’re like 90% there. It’s sad, I want to take a pic of every epic defecation. It’s disgusting but so pride-inducing I almost can’t help but instagram it. Good God. Your favorite reward after doing the deed? Washing your hands. Really, dude? Really? Your 2^nd fav reward? Skittles and/or fruit snacks. You are your mothers son. Also, bacon and peeing seem to work well for you...

2. YOUR VOCABULARY! It’s insane. We can have an actual conversation, about anything, and you get it. A few of your favorites:

- observing the random cars/trucks/tractors/school busses on the road on our way to school

- watching for traffic lights and instructing your driver how to proceed (whew!)

- telling us what you learned at school – each week is themed

3. YOU CAN WRITE YOUR NAME! What? You’re 2.5. are 2.5’s supposed to know how to write their names? Trip out

4. YOU LOVE YOUR UNCLE CAM! Oh man, do you. It's weird, it's like you two speak the same foreign language and just get each other. It's the best thing ever. You think he's the COOLEST dude ever and the feeling is so clearly mutual. He loves you to pieces and would do anything for you. Yay for family and awesome uncles.

5. You have naturally adopted the concept of control, and you like it. Weird, no clue why this concept is so appealing (oh hey, mirror). On occasion, we’ll put you down for a nap or bedtime, and you don’t love the idea of sleeping where we want you to. You're into sleeping, just on your own terms. In these cases, you’ll pass out anywhere BUT where you know you’re supposed to sleep. Your favorites lately are the kitchen and the doorway of your bedroom. Our philosophy? Let the boy sleep...

5. You just cannot get enough of your cousins. You love them to pieces. We are so thankful to live so close to our friends and family. They are your favorite – watching you grow up with my best friends kiddos is an absolute dream come true.

My favorite things you say:

I love you too

Mama, you’re so pretty (unprompted, I guarantee no one taught him this...no really)

Ending every statement with “RIGHT?”

I tooted!

(after you go potty) “and now I get a skittle!”

See my cool shoes?
When I wake up, I'm going to the mountain with daddy
elk call.

Statements of appreciation/affirmation: “Good Job on the nuggets, Cam!”

Your favorite foods:

Skittles (duh)

Asparagus

Bananas

Any berries

Fettuccine

Any version of breaded chicken

Sammich

Mac & Cheese

...and the very first photographic evidence we're related....

RESET

Mama needed a TIMEOUT today after working 3 weeks straight; thankfully, it all culminated in a very big, very successful meeting in California. So many days of nonstop working will do a number on your old lady. We needed a reset button.  First on my list of things to do? Hang with you, of course.

We called in FUN to school, cancelling your day of growth and education (much to the dismay of your teachers, and my conscience), gave cause to launch into breakfast and a day of awesomeness with our favorite cousins. We ate pancakes, we drank hot chocolate, we went swimming, we snacked on pistachios. We were human again. Nothing like a reset day with the best, most fun, hilarious, and energetic little dude on the planet, and our super cool friends. It just melts my heart to see you play with your boys, Jackson and Maverick. It's truly the cutest thing - you love them, and they take SUCH good care of you - like you were their brother, I mean, you basically ARE brothers. Each day I am more and more thankful for this beautiful life and these incredibly amazing, generous, thoughtful friends (family) we have. We are so, so lucky bud. What a great day. 

It.

Was.

Awesome.

Adventures in berry picking!

Your school is closed this week so mommy and daddy are taking shifts staying home with you. Also, it happens to be summertime and absolutely drop-dead gorgeous outside!!! 

This morning we decided to go on an early morning berry picking adventure with our favorite friends, Maverick and Lori! (Before work emails started to really roll in).

Too fun!! Who knew this farm was right in our backyard just up the hill? 

We rolled up to the Skeeters Farm for u-pick blueberries. $2 bucks a pound. Whatta deal. 

At first you weren't so sure. 

Then you started helping pick the berries and put them in the bucket.

Then you realized you could actually eat them right there, and you were done for. 

...and then you got cranky and it was time for a nap - at your request of course. 

We live in such a beautiful part of the country. I'm so thankful that we can take a drive up the hill and pick berries in our bare feet overlooking this gorgeous valley. We are one lucky bunch. 

Now...what to do with 5 lbs of blueberries?!?

Love.

talk to me.

talk to me, kiddo.
talk to me.

I love that you can communicate.
sometimes. hah.
That, and you're so dang expressive. You never hesitate to tell us when you want a "love" (hug) or a kiss. I want you to always feel safe and comfortable when expressing your feelings, and it makes me so happy to see you loving up on everyone. Before bed: "Gimme WUV, gimme kiss, mommy, daddy". My heart sings.

You tell us everything you want and need. and it's awesome. Your daddy, well, he's a talker, and I can't help but feel like this is you taking after him. You talk us through your every emotion, feeling, thought.
You have so many opinions and observations. It's inspirational, really, to join you in your world. It's way more fun through your eyes.

Here's an interview with you yesterday all about your favorites:

Favorite Color: Yellow (later, in a video, it was pink, flipflopper. perhaps you have a future in politics?)
Favorite Food: Yummy
Favorite Teacher: ShiShi (Shannon)
Favorite Animal: Tigers
Who's your best friend? : Benny (and later, it was Dustin)
Mommy or Daddy? : Daddy
Grandpa or Grandma? : Grandpa
(guess you're a dudes dude for now)
Hamburgers or Hotdogs? : Tacos (duh)
Camping or Beach? : Camping at the beach (smart kid, no really, you said this)
Ocean or Mountains? : mountains

Other favorite sayings lately:
When you're cranky and don't want to do ANYTHING: "I JUST NOT" ~whatever that means
cute, agreeable you: "yep"
still: "I'm so happy to see you"
While we were camping, you rolled over to daddy in the morning after sleeping in bed with us (for only the third time ever): "Hi Daddy. You're so nice to me".

You also have books memorized to such a tee that you can read them back to us. Trip out. Your favorite books that you've memorized are: Dr. Seuss' Marvin K Mooney (Go Go Go book), Dr. Seuss' Green Eggs and Ham, Skippy Jon Jones, Dinosaur Friends, Dr. Seuss One Fish Two Fish. It seriously blows my mind that you can read entire books to me. and you don't know how to read - as far as I know.

Guess what else? You LOVE camping. I mean really, I've never seen a kid more in his element. You explore, you throw rocks in the river, you ride your bike, you build fires (with assistance) - I shouldn't be surprised; from the time you were born, all it took to calm you down was to take you outside. You're just like your daddy.
We've already gone camping a handful of times, there's too many trips to document, but here's a few shots of you and your buds in the great outdoors.

And here's you talking about your favorite things: