Milhizer Mania

Is it too much to ask?

2011-10-13T22:47:00.003-04:00

So, I have been getting involved with the music program at Charlie's school and I am now the volunteer assistant choir director on Tuesday afternoons. This has been great for me and I love using this part of me again as well as getting to know a great bunch of kids. This also led to me being a judge for the school talent show, which brings me to the point of this post.

PARENTS - PLEASE TEACH YOUR CHILDREN CONCERT ETIQUETTE! ADULTS - PLEASE LEARN CONCERT ETIQUETTE!

Holy cow! Have we really gotten to a point in our lives where we don't understand that someone on stage deserves respect and the FULL attention of an audience? The adults running the show have enough to do than also ask your children to sit still, be quiet, stop pushing, stop laughing, stop eating candy and anything else that is possibly distracting to the person on stage. What bothers me most, is the parents that are oblivious to their children's behavior, or worse, don't care, or even worse, don't realize it's wrong. Why aren't we teaching kids that you sit still and respect the artists?

The absolute worst part of this are the adults that get up, use the restroom, get on their phones, check scores, check email and TALK during these performances. NO WONDER YOUR CHILDREN HAVE NO IDEA HOW TO ACT!

In this age of immediate information, low attention spans and complete lack of etiquette, I hope that my generation of parents may see that we are doing this world and especially our kids a disservice by not teaching them how to be a respectful, cooperative, meaningful part of society. I hate to think what the world will be like if we don't get back to worrying about these little things. It all adds up.

Has it really been that long?

2011-08-31T15:02:00.007-04:00

So, I just logged in and saw that my last post was June 30th. Oops! Not the consistency that I was going for. Oh well...I've been a little busy.

So, let's recap the last 2 months. I had a beautiful, beautiful, sweet and wonderful baby girl. Did I mention she is beautiful? Caroline Sutton Milhizer is the most content and happy little thing. We just had friends here for a wedding that stayed with us for a few nights and they kept commenting on how she never cries. Yippee!!!! She used to have bad evenings, not colic that would last for hours, but really bad spells that caused her great discomfort. I knew something must be off since any other time of day she is so calm. I freaked out one day thinking it was acid reflux, but it turns out that she has a dairy sensitivity. I have been off dairy for a week and a half now and we have solved our issue. Now the only time she cries is when she is in her car seat and awake. ESPECIALLY, if I'm driving and can't get to her.

Here's how the delivery went down: I went into labor Thursday, July 7th. Got to the hospital around 9pm. I was 3cms and my contractions were 5 minutes apart. By 11pm I was 4cms and contractions 2 minutes apart. Decided to get an epidural and everything slowed down. Finally, at 10 am the next morning (July 8th), I was 10 cms. The doctor asked if I felt the need to push, and I didn't. She asked if I would like to try anyway. I said, "sure, why not," and little Caroline was born 10 minutes later. 7lbs 10oz, 20 inches of joy at 10:18 am. For those that may recall Charlie's delivery, we were SHOCKED by how easy this was.

I have to now brag on my little man. Charlie has been amazing with his little sister. He loves to pat her and tell everyone that she is so sweet and "ooh, how cute." He goes and looks for her in the morning and if she is waking up and making noises he goes running in her room and screams her name until I can get there. We have had a few aggressive moments where he wants to really squeeze her and share his toys (by share, I mean toss his toys in her direction). Hey, the kid is sharing, just not understanding she can't play with him. He is talking SOOO much more and it's so fun to see how much more he is communicating. We have plenty of two-year-old fits, but they come and go and usually pass quickly. There are days that it seems all we have are fits, but today is a good day.

All in all it's been a busy few months. Caroline is 8 weeks on Friday, which is hard to believe. Charlie starts a program Tuesday called Transitions at the Catholic pre-school/grade school around the corner, St. Andrews. It also happens to be the grade school Bob attended and Bob's mom taught here for 20 years and still subs throughout the school year. He will go to school Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9-11. It makes me sad to think he is old enough for me to send him somewhere by himself, but I look forward to watching him grow and mature and see how much he learns. He needs the socialization more than anything.

In other news, my family just went through a rough patch with my dad. Last week my father was in the hospital for a few days after having what seemed like a stroke. Luckily, it wasn't but they kept him for testing and monitoring while they tried and figured out what was going on. At the beginning of August he had an MRI that showed he had already had a small stroke. My dad has no memory of this and the doctors can't tell when it happened. We are all very glad that he is much better and with some adjustments to his medication, looks like we may be making improvements. My mom has been strong and by his side day and night and is now having to drive him around until further notice. I'm hoping things continue to be ok so she can get some rest and my dad can feel at peace and just concentrate on taking care of himself. It's hard enough watching your children grow up so quickly but watching your parents have health issues is tough. I can't imagine a world without Harry and Carol.

I have promised many of you pictures of the nursery and updated pictures of Caroline and Charlie. It's coming! Hopefully by the end of the weekend I will have them organized and ready to upload.

Charlie's up...all for now.

Not my "version" of fun...

2011-06-30T21:20:00.004-04:00

Thank God that is over! For a procedure that took, literally, two minutes, I am worn out, beat up and sore! None of that matters because we successfully turned baby girl around and now I wait until she is ready to make her appearance. She is already slightly high maintenance, so I expect this entrance into the world to be nothing but grand and miraculous.

For those of you not familiar with a version, this is an interesting experience. I started by getting an IV of fluids, then an epidural (which kept having to be redirected so I am in a lot of pain in my back), then they give you a shot of a medication to relax your uterus. They know it's taken effect when your heart rate sky rockets. For some reason, it took me a long time to react. My doctor assumes I must have super powers and was discussing writing me up in a medical journal as the first person not to respond to this medicine. Finally, my body decided to respond and he grabbed her head from outside my stomach, another doctor grabbed her butt and they pushed down on me as hard as they could and moved her little body around almost 180 degrees until she was head down. She cooperated the first try, so everyone was thrilled and I was very glad it didn't take longer than a few minutes. Bob said he could see her outline and it was very interesting to watch. So, now we hang out and hope she stays put.

This little procedure's biggest purpose is to help me avoid having a c-section. I know there are many reasons why c-sections are safest and best, but in my case, I am better off having another baby the regular old way and not have to go through the recovery of major surgery. This has gotten me thinking about all the little and big things we do as mothers to ensure the safety and protection of our children, even before they have entered this world. Charlie will be better off if I only have a few days of recovery rather than a few weeks and now that Caroline is in position, we can let her take the lead and do things when she is ready. Motherhood is a hard job and you put yourself in any situation needed to do what's best for your child. Some would argue that letting my doctors "manhandle" her today was not in her best interest, but I believe I did the right thing and the success we had proves that my instinct and the trust I have in my doctor is right. No matter how many times this instinct is correct, we still question daily if we have done the right thing because, at the end of the day, this is the most important job in the world.

More than anything, I am emotionally worn out from this experience. Thank you to everyone that had us in your prayers and thoughts today. I appreciate those of you that let us know you were thinking of us and hoping things went well. I especially appreciate Grandma Paula being here with Charlie so Bob and I had nothing else to worry about. Now being on the other side of it, I realize how much of my worry was for nothing, but it's still nice to feel supported and thought of.

I promise the next post about this baby will be the happy news that she has arrived. I am much more relaxed about the uncertainty of when she will be here. It's much better for me to keep her safe where she is and let nature take action. Plus, I only have a tiny amount of time left with just Charlie and this time with him should be spent having a good time and loving each other, not wondering if today is the day. It's funny how you start mourning your one-on-one time with your first. You know this is the only child that had you and you alone for a few years. I am going to miss it being the two of us during the day, but am equally as excited about loving 2 little people and caring for both of them.

Ok, good night. My emotional, "coming off the meds" discussion of today is over.

Hope everyone has a great long weekend! Happy 4th of July!!

Crazy Lady

2011-06-27T15:19:00.002-04:00

I'm not sure starting this again is a good idea, considering I don't think anyone reads this (especially those that I created it for to begin with), but I was very good at updating this blog when Charlie was born and, if possible, I should do it for my second child. I would love to look back and have the documentation of our lives.

I already see how it's hard to do things exactly the same with your second. I am so overwhelmed at times with the idea of bringing a baby home, that the reality of how it will go may just be the end of me. Charlie has decided he is in a mommy stage. My neighbor says that he must know the baby is coming. However, he doesn't seem to get it when we talk about the "baby in mommy's belly" and that he is getting a sister. He is a challenging child. I wouldn't change a thing about him, he is perfect to me and Bob, but he is challenging. Verbally he is developing slowly, he is a young 27 months and has a lot of baby still in him. He also has a temper. This temper seems to be expressed by him banging his head on things - the harder the better it seems. 85% of the time, he is sweet, loving and so much fun to play with. He gets overwhelmed when people are around and I blame me! We spent a lot of his first 2 years just the 2 of us and now he just doesn't always want to share mommy and mommy's attention. Maybe this is normal, maybe I am paranoid or maybe I have done a horrible job and I can start trying now to fix it and get him ready for "school" in the fall.

Okay, I know that sounded terribly negative. He is the best thing that has happened to me and I love him more than anything. I am just being very honest about life and our "mania" as the blog title suggests. I spend my days with a 2 year old, with little adult conversation, so this online journal may, at times, be therapy for this crazy mommy.

Speaking of crazy - let's talk about nesting. For those that know me very well, you know that I don't make lists, I don't do things far in advance and I don't worry about what's to come, I just bury my head, and hope for the best. There is a very good reason that my mother has always referred to me as "my father's child" and "bull in a china shop." As my dad will attest, things always get done and it's usually ok. It just maybe last minute and take a little more cleaning up. So, the pages of lists and instructions that I have typed for any and all that take care of Charlie while I am in the hospital, the cleanliness of my house, the empty laundry hampers, the stocked fridge and the packed suitcase, are the work of someone that I am not used to being. I will tell you, it almost makes me more anxious to be so prepared. The idea of running out of things to do is not comfortable for me when I am used to working on things up to the last second. I was convinced last week that labor was on it's way, but now I feel fine. Energy is up, contractions are easing - except when I am busy or out for walks and my edgy attitude and emotions have calmed as well. Charlie was a week and a half early, so by his schedule she could be here next week. If God does his usual with me, she will be late and I will have learned another lesson in being patient and waiting for His time and not mine. I just need to relax...

My 37 week check-up is this week. At 36 weeks, she was transverse (which means sideways) instead of head down. If on Wednesday she is still not head down, we will go to the hospital Thursday morning and my doctor will try and manually turn her into the right position so that we can try and avoid a c-section. I am hoping this works and I am sent home to just let things happen on their own. This child is already stubborn! Charlie was face-up, but at least head down. I am not sure why my children like to make things difficult in the womb. I also seem to make kidneys that don't work perfectly. We are waiting to get more word on baby girl's kidneys, but it looks like she may have the same issue Charlie has. Luckily, we know this is something that we will monitor and hopefully not have to react to. Just something to keep up with.

All in all, things have been great throughout this pregnancy. Had a really rough start, but then a really easy time the rest of the way - if you take out major low back pain, major pressure in all the wrong places, trouble sleeping and other minor pregnancy irritations. Any woman who has given birth knows that these symptoms just come along with it, not anything to complain about. I have gained 24lbs which is less than half of what I gained with Charlie and my back hurts so much worse. Would it make sense that my hugeness with Charlie gave me a better base to carry him around? I am definitely all belly (well, all belly and boobs). This just makes me hopeful that the getting back or surpassing my pre-pregnancy weight may not take as long this time around.

I will end today with this in an attempt to redeem myself and my negativity: I am very lucky. I have a wonderful, successful husband. I have a beautiful, fun and loving toddler and I am about to meet my daughter. Not bad.

Little man is calling - nap time is over and the hug I get when he gets out of his crib is the best part of the day.

Mother's Day Weekend

2010-05-11T22:23:00.006-04:00

We just spent an eventful weekend in Atlanta to meet our new nephew, celebrate my friend Kim's engagement and then spend Mother's Day with my family.

We also got to attend Cooper's 9th birthday party, which was at a roller skating rink. Bob, who is a great ice skater, has never roller skated before and so I thought I would show him how to do it. Well, all I showed anyone is that I can fall really hard and land myself in the ER with a bruised tailbone and some whiplash. Days later I am still sore and picking Charlie up is hard, but worth it. I think my ego is more bruised than anything.

It was so nice to see my new nephew in person. He is a beautiful, beautiful baby! Our first meeting I bored him to death and he slept through it, but on Sunday I got to hold him for awhile! So sweet!!!

Kim's engagement party was in Charlotte on Saturday. We had a great time and it is so nice to see her so happy. It was a nice preview to how fun the wedding will be.

Mother's Day was nice. Everyone met at Mom and Dad's and we enjoyed playing with the kids and just hanging out.

As far as the Milhizers go, we are doing well. April was insane. May seems a little more calm, but still really busy. Charlie is changing everyday and learning things at a crazy pace. We are blowing kisses, saying ball, duck and Dada ( he doesn't say them consistently, but he can). We are almost saying Mama, but it will come. I am doing well. I have started working out with a trainer in addition to my runs with Charlie, but I haven't been great about any of it lately. Last week was out with a horrible cold, then out of town and now my back. I am also terrible about my diet right now, which is why I am letting the few of you that read this know that I am getting back on track TOMORROW! I really want to feel great for a wedding in just a few weeks. I know what I need to do, I just have to do it.

Enjoy the pics below. Hope everyone is well!

The Mamas and their Babies

They love their cousin Charlie

I love my baby!

Cooper and Eli

But Dad, I want to feed the geese!

At Kim's engagement party - Kim, Laura and Jennifer

Kim and Charlie

Laura and Jennifer

Hanging with Aunt Traci while I fell on my bootie!

Brady showing off his cool bracelets

The birthday boy! I can't believe he's 9!!!

Eli and Charlie

Eli likes his new book!

My beautiful new nephew, Easton!

Charlie's First Blackhawks game

2010-04-27T16:18:00.004-04:00

We had a great time taking Charlie to his first hockey game. Bob was so excited to see how he would like it. Luckily, it was an awesome game. Charlie's favorite part was pregame. All the music and lights were making him jump up and down and cheer along. The Blackhawks won 5-4 in overtime, so we picked a great game to start him with.

After the win!

Bob and Charlie cheering after a goal

National Anthem

Pregame

Sitting in Daddy's seat

Here's a video of how much fun he was having...

Pics from Barcelona

2010-04-26T22:54:00.005-04:00

Las Ramblas (think of it as Barcelona's Times Square)

The Castle on Montjuic

Parc Guell

Shot of the city

Taken from one of the towers of Sagrada Familia

Sagrada Familia

FC Barcelona Stadium

The Maritime Museum

The Mediterranean

Christopher Columbus

The Cathedral

Inside of the Cathedral

Very cool market off of Las Ramblas

Plaza de Catalunya

Charlie's BIrthday Pics

2010-04-26T17:43:00.009-04:00

Charlie loves his Grandmas!

Hanging with the Grandpas

We visited Bob at work on Charlie's birthday. Bob took the afternoon off to spend it with Charlie. Unfortunately, a high fever came on and we canceled our plans.

Helping Dad crunch some numbers

He already has the "Seriously, Mom?" look down. I appreciated him humoring me with his birthday hat.

Charlie's picture was on the morning news!

One of his birthday shirts...I know we are terrible!

Love how he is looking at me. He loved his cake!

Trying to get a pic in the hat at his party.

Opening presents

With Daddy, still eating cake

This stuff is good, but I can't quite figure it out.

with Uncle Pat and Kate

His adorable cake. It looks like his invitation!

With Aunt Traci and Uncle Mike

Mom and Gigi

Charlie's cousins Madi and Mac

Daddy!

April Showered us with Fun!

2010-04-25T22:30:00.002-04:00

Wowza! This has been a crazy couple of weeks. April started off with Charlie's birthday and Charlie being sick. Luckily, he made a full recovery and we were able to have his party and celebrate our little boy with many of our friends and family. I was lucky to have one of my sisters and her family and my parents all come up from Atlanta to celebrate with us. This was Traci's first visit to Chicago so it was fun to show them where we live and how different it is from how we grew up and from New York. My nieces, Madison and Mackenzie, were on Spring Break so they stayed for almost a week and we had a lot of fun. During their visit we got news from Atlanta that my brother and sister-in-law had their baby boy Easton on April 6th! He was a month early but already 6lbs 7oz and is doing great.
Bob and I were lucky enough to take off for a getaway. We took 5 days and headed off to Barcelona, Spain. Neither of us have traveled internationally before so it was very exciting. We had a blast! The weather was perfect and the city was amazing. We did not commit like we should have to learning Spanish, but we got through the trip with no mishaps and found ways to get around on our own or people that we could communicate with. The history that surrounds this city is unbelievable. The buildings are amazing. I absolutely loved being there and learning a different place. Plus, the idea of siestas, late dinners, tapas and sangria were all right up my alley. My favorite part of the trip was having 5 days of being with Bob and not having to think about work, responsibilities and just enjoying each other as a couple. It helps when you know that your child is well taken care of!
Once we got back from Spain we needed a little bit of time to recoup but have stayed very busy, nonetheless. We have been to the Chicago Blackhawks playoffs, took Charlie to his first game, ran a 5k and went to Bob's high school reunion.
Charlie is doing well. He is SO close to walking. He is nervous about letting go of our hands and doing it on his own but he gets a little braver everyday. I am sure by summer we will be off and running. He has still never crawled, but I think I am getting over this as he gets closer and closer to walking. Bob is great. He is working harder and harder and is very motivated to reach his goals for himself and his team.
As far as my goals go, I reached my goal of 140lbs right before we left for Spain. I am pretty certain I am no longer there after birthday celebrations, vacation and time getting back in the swing of things and not working out. I have been scared to get on the scale, so I have no idea how much I put back on. It felt great to do the 5k Saturday morning so I am back to being motivated so I will get back to it soon. Charlie and I are going to take some music classes starting in May so this is a big thing to check off on my list of goals for me and Charlie and meeting moms and other kids. We have hit the playground on a few occasions and I have enjoyed watching him watch the kids and have had some nice conversations with moms.
We are so excited about the summer and all the weddings, trips and good weather we have before us! We head to Atlanta in 2 weeks to meet my nephew! I'd love things to settle down but I am not sure when that may happen.
Hope everyone is well!

11 Months, St. Pattys and The Race...

2010-03-25T21:22:00.003-04:00

Hello again. Okay, so maybe a monthly update is the most reasonable thing to promise. This month has FLOWN! It started off with a stomach bug that knocked Charlie and Bob out of commission for a few days only to be followed by tooth #2 cutting through. I know I bragged about Charlie being a trooper with tooth #1, but tooth 2 got him good! We had lots of Mommy and Charlie time in the middle of the night. Between the sickness and the teething I was a zombie for awhile. We also got to celebrate Bob's favorite holiday, St. Patrick's day. Our good friend, Joe Mazzeffi, hosts a breakfast the morning of the parade and it was fun to dress Charlie up and take him over for the festivities ( I forgot to get a picture of him in his full green get up). Bob and I got a babysitter for the afternoon and headed to a local pub with friends to continue the celebrating. It's just nice to get out and remember how much fun you have together as a couple and not just as parents.
The following weekend was the Shamrock Shuffle 8K (5 miles). I DID IT!!!!! Slowly, but I did it. My goal was to come in under an hour and I finished in 55 minutes and 51 seconds. I have never run that far without taking a break to walk. Joe Mazzeffi was my running partner and he and I kept each other going. It makes me excited for the next race. I had a blast. The course took you through downtown Chicago and it was such a different and interesting way to see downtown. Almost 30,000 people ran this race so the crowd in front and behind was very motivating as well. Bob finished the race in 32 minutes and 21 seconds. GEEZ! I wish he could be a little faster...ha ha...You will notice he is not in any of the race photos. He takes it a lot more seriously and he had already gone to the starting line when the slow pokes were just hanging around taking pictures, freezing our butts off.
All in all it was a great month. I can't believe that 1 week from today Charlie is 1 year!!!! This has been the quickest year of my life and yet the most fulfilling. We have a great party planned for him and many friends and family will be here to celebrate. He is getting so big. Still has no desire to crawl and has yet to even attempt. He has scooted a little, but he prefers to be on his feet. He is so close to walking. He took a few steps by himself and the shopping cart walker that we have. His balance is not quite there yet and he doesn't stand on his own long enough to test it because falling backwards and having someone catch him is just too much fun! My son is about as boy as they come. I have a feeling in a few weeks I will report that he has taken his first steps.
I am doing well. I am 2 lbs away from my goal. The diet has been easier than I thought. It really helps reminding myself that I made sacrifices for Lent rather than just being on a diet. I have cheated. In fact, 4 times. I am working out much more regularly and we bought a jogging stroller so Charlie and I can go for runs together in addition to our trips to the gym or my videos at home.
The next few weeks will be very exciting. We are awaiting the arrival of my new nephew, Easton. He is due May 3rd, but he has plans of his own and is making everyone aware that he wants to join us sooner. My brother and his wife have been going through a lot to make sure he stays as long as possible. The goal is to get him to April 6th, which will be 36 weeks. Please pray that he stays put til then and that he arrives, healthy and happy! Bob and I leave for Spain on April 7th. We are unbelievably excited about our trip. So, my next post will be full of birthday fun, a new nephew and an amazing trip.
Hope you are all doing great! Enjoy the pics below.

He looks so old to me in this pic. Time flies...

Ever since we cut teeth, he LOVES his paci

He loves to sing (or try to eat) the microphone on his jammin band. I really need to teach him correct technique

We are getting really good at feeding ourselves. Since our teeth didn't arrive until 10 1/2 months we started finger foods a little late and very slowly.

Just hanging

St. Patrick's Day trying to eat the Shamrocks, which meant green glitter in the mouth. Not my best mothering moment...

So, I let him eat the remote

Another hat for St. Patrick's Day

Starting line of the Shamrock Shuffle

Just a section of the crowd of runners

Our friends that ran with us

Me and Vic

Joe, Sergio and Me. IT WAS SOOOO COLD!!

Catching Up: Atlanta, First Tooth and Lent

2010-02-22T12:44:00.009-05:00

My snow buddy!

My parent's backyard

Beautiful!

Playing with Gigi!

The Lake

I'm so hot mom! The circus is exhuasting!

Charlie loved his glow sticks!

Madi and Mac watching the elephants

Eli loved the circus too!

Playing with Cooper and Brady

Mac and Madi. Love Charlie's face in this pic! He's so cool.

Just hanging on the plane!

Danny learning to ice skate

Hello all! Hope you had a great Valentine's Day! Seems like we were all frozen during the month of February, but hopefully March will start the thaw!

I know I have fallen off the blogging wagon and haven't been doing what I said I would do. See, it's my fatal flaw! I start off great but get distracted and then it takes awhile to get back on track. Maybe I should make more realistic expectations to update you weekly or bi-weekly instead of every few days. I think we can all agree I am not interesting enough for numerous postings.

So, Charlie and I spent Valentine's weekend in Atlanta. I was meeting a few friends in Atlanta to celebrate Kim's engagement so Bob and I postponed our Valentine's date so I could be there. Unfortunately, the South was hit with snow the day we arrived and 2 of the 4 of us couldn't get to Atlanta. Kim and I spent a great day, just the two of us. We decided on her wedding dress, ate great Mexican and rented a movie. It was a lovely day! Charlie spent the day being spoiled at my parent's, so everyone was happy. The snow, although it threw a kink in my social plans, was beautiful and my parents and I had a great time playing in it with Charlie. This was the prettiest snow I have seen in Atlanta since I was a kid. My parent's backyard is absolutely gorgeous when snow covered!

Valentine's day my family went to see the circus. I wasn't sure how this would go since it started at Charlie's bedtime. He was awesome! I think he had more fun than anyone. He bounced and laughed and waved his arms throughout the entire show. I have no idea what happened in the rings, I watched him the whole time.

While we were in Atlanta, Charlie's first tooth broke through. He was such a tough guy! I didn't realize it was happening until it was visible. So many times before I thought he was teething and he wasn't, so I've stopped worrying about it. It took 10 months to get it, so I am sure the next tooth to break is coming soon.

I returned to Chicago just in time for Ash Wednesday. Prior to Atlanta and definitely while I was there my eating and workouts were not where they were supposed to be. So, I am using the added motivation of giving up sugar for Lent to help me make these changes. I have cut out white bread, white rice, potatoes, sweets, pizza and other take out, processed foods, and alcohol (except occasional red wine). I am on day 6 and I feel great! It really hasn't been hard. For whatever reason, I am not having cravings like I did in January. It helps that I put more options in the house for getting through the day.

I am back working out, which feels great. My weight is back up a few pounds, but I am not worried. This time, I will achieve my goal!

The pics above are from Atlanta and Bob helping our friend Sergio teach his son to ice skate. Below is a video of Charlie laughing at his new puppy that my mom gave him. He LOVES this dog. Thanks Gigi!

Enjoy!!!!

Snow my goodness!

2010-02-10T11:00:00.010-05:00

Hope you enjoy these pics! I had a great time taking Charlie out into the snow!

The past two days Chicago received about a 8-12 inches of snow. Last year, we got a ton of snow but it came in smaller amounts that just piled on top of each other. This is the most snow I have EVER seen fall in one day. It was so cool to watch it blowing around and covering everything with a beautiful white layer. Today, starts the beauty turning into gray sludge.

The last decent snow we had, I didn't take Charlie out and get pictures so I made sure to do this this morning. He was hilarious! He really didn't know what to do and was so bundled he couldn't move if he had wanted to. Plus, the guy shoveling our back drive was much more interesting at times than mom and the camera.

All of this snow just reminds me that I am a Southerner. I just watched it fall and fall yesterday wondering why there were so many people out and about. The Trader Joe's across from our condo was never without a full parking lot, Lincoln Avenue was as busy as it ever was, buses and trains were right on schedule. I am not used to snow not shutting down the world and people crazily rushing to stock up on milk, bread and eggs. No one skips a beat. I am definitely getting more and more used to the weather, but it still takes so much for me to want to get out.

I can't wait to be in Atlanta this weekend to have a small break from the bitter cold. There was even an earthquake last night, but we didn't feel it. Bob's brother lives 4 blocks from us and he felt it. Luckily, it was small and there is no damage anywhere.

Hope all is well. Happy Valentines Day!!!

Charlie Walker

2010-02-08T11:43:00.003-05:00

I have mentioned many times that Charlie is on his own schedule when it comes to being mobile. My mom gave us a walker at Christmas time and we have been letting him play in it since he is now too tall for his jumper. He loves being upright and independent, so this is the next best thing to the jumper. I know these walkers get a lot of criticism, but don't worry, we don't have stairs and he doesn't stay in it for long periods of time. It is really neat to see him move around and go where he chooses to go. It is definitely a preview of what's to come and how much harder it will be when he is moving around on his own. For now, it's great exercise.
This video is Charlie coming down our hallway and then clapping when I get excited for him. He has learned to clap at the word, "yay."

Off track....

2010-02-04T20:14:00.002-05:00

Good evening everyone!
First thing first, we checked Charlie's kidney today and it is considered stable. Not any better, but not any worse. This is a good thing. A great thing would be that it would go away, but for now we are thankful that it isn't getting worse. So, we wait another 3 months and then check it again. The urologist said today that we may just be doing this dance until he is 5 years or so and then they just determine that this is how he was made and nothing will ever come of it. For now, we have to monitor it so that we prevent any damage being done if it were to ever get worse again. Thank you for your prayers. Let's spend the next 3 months praying that we see improvement come May.
So, I am off track. I know it's only been a month, but the last two weeks have not been great. Last week I wasn't on top of things and this week I came down with a big cold. I am realizing how much I am controlled by how I feel and it effects my eating habits and ability to want to workout. I am hoping that by the weekend I will be over this cold and back on the plan.
Bob and I booked our flights to go to Spain in April, so I REALLY want to look my best for this trip.
Hope all is well. Charlie and I head to Atlanta next weekend. We are getting away for a few days and spending time with my family. I am getting to spend the day with 3 of my favorite people to celebrate Kim's recent engagement. I am excited about a day with girlfriends while my parents keep Charlie.
Good night!!!!

February 1st - 10 months old

2010-02-01T11:24:00.003-05:00

This is Charlie's new winter hat. He looks like Elmer Fudd hunting wabbits

Cruising around with his buddy

Happy Valentine's Day bib from Grandma

He's clapping. He loves to clap no matter what is in his hands.

We weren't great about taking pictures this past month, but these are a few of Charlie at 9 months. I can't believe that he is 10 months old today and I am already thinking about what I am going to do for his first birthday. I know it will be April 3rd, but not sure of the details and I think I have plenty of time to figure it out.

My goals are going well. This past week was not good as far as workouts. I only got in 2 runs, but I am up to running 3 miles without stopping on the treadmill so at least progress is being made. Bob and I registered for the Shamrock Shuffle last night, so there is no turning back! I am volunteering at the grade school Bob attended and it's where Bob's mom taught for 20 years to help with their spring musical. I am very excited to get to know the kids and help out where I can, especially with their singing. They are doing Seussical the Musical, which I directed the last year I taught. Such a fun show! Bob and I went off by ourselves Saturday to see the St. Olaf Choir perform and it was so nice to hear a great choir and connect to that world again. I also appreciate that Bob is willing to sit through that with me.

If I could ask for prayers this week, we go in Thursday to check Charlie's kidney again. We had such great news in November and we are hoping that they continue to find that it is getting better. If it's not, then surgery will be back on the table. I will let everyone know Friday how things went and what the Doctors say.

Hope all is well!

Long and Lean!

2010-01-21T20:22:00.002-05:00

Today was Charlie's 9th month check-up. Its a few weeks late, but that's ok. Chuckles is 30 inches long but only weighs 19.5 lbs. As far as percentages go, he is taller than 90% of babies his age, but 75% of babies his age weigh more. So what this means is that Charlie could go around looking down at other babies saying, "What's up fatty!" Long and lean is a good thing! The doc doesn't seemed concerned at his weight, so I'm not either. As far as everything else, he is doing well. She wants to see him try and move around, but that's not happening anytime soon.
As far as my mission to be long and lean, I lost 2lbs over this past week. I am down to 145! Still a lot of work to do. It's amazing how I have weighed this before and actually felt pretty good. Having a baby just makes everything different and you have to work a little harder to feel good.
I have added a new goal to my list. I am going to run a half marathon on August 1st. Bob is helping put together a running schedule. So far, I can run 1.5 miles before needing to walk. Not bad for 3 times out and the fact that I haven't run since July of 2008 (this is when I found out I was pregnant and told myself that running was bad for the baby). First step is to complete the Shamrock Shuffle on March 21st which is a 5 mile race. Wish me luck! This will be a huge accomplishment for me. I have said many, many times that I was going to do a race with Bob, but I never do. I will not chicken out or get lazy!
Hope everyone is well!

The Weekend

2010-01-17T20:15:00.002-05:00

This weekend was a busy one! Good news is that I got all the workouts in that I was supposed to. My meals could have been better, but oh well, it's the weekend. We didn't make it to a movie, maybe next weekend...but our goals talk was productive and still on going.
The church we visited today was great. We both have a few questions, but would definitely go back to find out more about it. I would really like to see how connected the families are. In the service there didn't seem to be a lot of children, but my guess is that they were either in the nursery or in a class. It's not completely convenient as far as location, but if we do further research and feel it's the right place, it might be fun to have a reason to be downtown every Sunday. Especially since it's located next to Bloomingdales, the Water Tower and lots of other fun shops. The choir was great. Their anthem was an African American Spiritual and they did a nice job. Sopranos could back off a little, but I always feel that way. I realized it's an auditioned group. I am a little scared if I have to sight-read. I am RUSTY!!!!! The search continues, but this might be an option.
Charlie has been a lot of fun this weekend. He is trying to scoot. He gets his butt up but doesn't seem to go anywhere but sideways. He is talking up a storm! I think I have a crazy man on my hands.
Hope all is well. On to week 2 of my goals. 5 workouts, no sweets...among many other things on my to-do list.

Christmas 09

2010-01-14T22:31:00.006-05:00

We started the holidays with Charlie and I heading to Nashville for a few days. It was so nice to be in my favorite place with some of my favorite people. We didn't get to see everyone and I forgot to take pictures at certain points along the way (The Bauchieros are missing from this slide show, but we loved seeing you!). Nashville is such a comfort and it was amazing to introduce my son to friends and their kids (or puppies a.k.a Albert). It's never long enough of a trip, so hopefully next time I will get to see everyone I didn't get to see in December.
Bob joined us in Nashville for a few hours and then we headed to Atlanta. We started with a family get together at my Uncles. The next day, Charlie met Santa and then it was Christmas morning! We spent the next few days with Charlie's cousins and then, unfortunately, Charlie got sick and we had to stay put and get home when he was up to it.
Outside of Charlie's ear infections, it was a blast. Thank you to everyone that made time for us and for all the gifts Charlie received.
Enjoy the slide show below.

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Plan of Action - Week 1

2010-01-14T14:51:00.002-05:00

Alright people, here we go....I have one friend on board the accountability train (thank you Rhondi!) BTW, Rhondi has a great blog that is a must read during American Idol. The link is on this page, if you are interested. Reading her comments is as fun, if not more, than watching the show. I haven't watched this week's episodes yet. I am anxious to see what the "pants on the ground" song is all about.

I am on day 3 of my new "gig" and it is going well. Incorporating Amelia into our day is going great. So, this falls under my financial goal (check it off!). Actually, it also fits under making friends. I love her parents and I have a lot in common with Andrea (Amelia's mom). I love talking with her and already know that we will be a big part of each other's lives here in Chicago.

Saturday, Bob and I are going on an afternoon date. Lunch and a movie. Check it, that's 3 things I am working on! Thanks to my friend Jill's suggestion, we are spending lunch going over all of our goals for the year and what our plan of action as a couple will be to accomplish them. I am very excited to hear what Bob wants to work on and what we are going to do as a couple to make our family better. As far as the movie, I am debating between It's Complicated, Nine, or Avatar. Any suggestions?

Sunday we are visiting Fourth Presbyterian Church. It seems to have a lot of things that we are both looking for.

Now, on to the "bigger" goal. As embarrassing as this is, I am going to share a weekly scale reading with you. This morning, 147lbs. Not terrible, but it's a flabby 147lbs. Goal by April 1st is 140 and tone. I have cut down this week on my sugar intake. It's not perfect, but I am training myself not to need sweet snacks in the afternoon or after dinner. Grabbing fruit instead or downing some water to fill the void. I am allowing myself to "cheat" on my date Saturday. I am hoping we find a fun lunch spot that I can have a margarita! I know if I tell myself that I can't ever have goodies, then I will fail miserably! I haven't worked out since Tuesday. I plan on doing some cardio tomorrow and Yogalosophy (great DVD I ordered that incorporates toning exercises with Yoga poses) on Saturday. Sunday is very busy, so I don't expect to have time to do anything. This gives me 3 workouts this week. Goal for next week is 5!

Last thing, here is my to-do list for tomorrow:
Clean bathrooms
Buy ink for printer
Print out passport applications
Vacuum and dust
Wash linens from our bed
Workout

Let's see what I actually get done. To-do list for tonight is to upload Christmas pictures. Until, tomorrow. Have a great day!

2010

2010-01-13T11:39:00.003-05:00

I have decided I am taking a new approach to Milhizer Mania. Yes, some of you may be thinking that if I actually post, then this will be new. I haven't been great about it and I hope to be better. Although, I really am not sure how many people actually look at this on a regular basis and I am sure my emails to tell everyone it has been updated are getting annoying. So, I am going to keep my postings going and trust that those that are interested are taking a peek when they can.
This new year is a very different one for me. I know most people are very reflective as January approaches, but I have been not only reflective, but much more productive with these thoughts. A lot of this has to do with the fact that in 2009 the greatest thing that has ever happened to me, happened and I want to make sure I am living the best life so that I can be the best mom and example to my family. I am also tired of wishing I was smaller, toner, stronger, not addicted to certain foods and just overall happier. I also found out over the holidays that some people that I love TREMENDOUSLY have some health issues that need to be taken care of. I could inherit these issues, so my main goal is health! Bob has always been committed to his health and is very consistent about his eating habits and workout schedule. I wish I was as diligent and this is something I am working on.
Why am I being so honest? Why am I sharing so much more than just pictures and tidbits on Charlie? I am doing this so that I have a virtual accountability. If I put all of this out in cyberspace, someone will read it and then I know that someone will be wondering how this journey is going for me. Plus, I just watched Julie and Julia and I related to Amy Adam's character in her realization that she always started something and rarely finished it. It was her blog that created her accountability and she actually finished something she started. So, whether anyone reads this or not, I have put it out there and therefore, I will be successful.
Here are my goals:
1. Find a church for our family - Bob and I are looking for a church that highlights both of our backgrounds. We want our kids to know how we both were raised but understand that our core values and beliefs are unified.
2. Be healthy - eating healthy and living healthy. Working out 3-5 times a week (preferably 5). Cutting down on fatty foods and kicking my sugar addiction. 10lbs to lose and LOTS of toning!!!!
3. Be positive - I am finding myself falling into negative traps and concentrating on the wrong side of the picture. Many times I remember what I have given up through the 2 big moves Bob and I have made instead of realizing all that I have gained. A new perspective is key!
4. Find a way to sing. Whether this is at the church we find or somewhere in the community, I need to use this part of myself again.
5. Date my husband - Bob and I always make sure to get out and celebrate any holiday, birthday or anniversary. We need to make sure we also get out a couple times a month, just the two of us, to enjoy each other and catch up on our goals or just have fun. We also need to get out with friends more.
6. Meet people. Make friends. I am so fortunate to have the girlfriends that I do, but unfortunately they are far away. I am also fortunate that Bob comes with a great core group here in Chicago, but I am hoping to get involved with more moms and people that I meet on my own.
7. Reach some financial goals. This is something Bob and I discuss often and is not for the blog. Just know we have a lot we are working toward.
8. Be more productive! I have always been the most productive the busier I am. The more time I have to complete a task, the more likely I am to wait until the last minute. I would like to work on being proactive and just get things done.
9. Get out of the house more. Charlie and I have such a great schedule and such a great time playing at home. It's hard to get out of the house. Once this bitter cold is over, I am going to work in more outings to our days.
10. Reach out and connect with friends more often. I need to keep in touch with my far away friends on a more consistent basis.

So, what's the plan of action? Good question. I am going to take this one step at a time.

On a lighter note, we have such a fun year ahead. Charlie continues to amaze us. He still has no desire to go anywhere on his own. He loves to clap and we are working on high fives. He loves drinking water out of his sippy cup. He still is toothless, but it's cute! He is definitely on his own schedule. I am learning to just relax and let things happen and not compare to other babies. I have met a wonderful couple, Andrea and Jack, who have a 3 month old little girl. Andrea just returned to work and I am keeping their daughter, Amelia, a few days a week. Charlie seems to like the company and she is a very sweet baby. My best friend from high school just got engaged! Kim and Charlie will be married in Atlanta on July 10th. We have two weddings in Boston this year, our friends Mark and Sarah (6/5) and Matt and Megan (9/11). We are also debating on attending Nicole and Paul's wedding in April, which will be in Barcelona, Spain. We want to go more than anything, but are still working out whether or not we can make it all work. Nicole went to BC with Bob and moved to New York right after we did. She became a dear friend to both of us and we would love to see her get married and experience an amazing city. Nicole grew up in Spain and her father still lives there.
Before we know it, Charlie will be 1 year old! Time is flying by.
So, to anyone reading all of my thoughts, let's get this started and I thank you for the accountability you are giving me. The overall goal is to be better. A better person, wife, mother, daughter, sister, friend. I hope we can strive to be better together.
Happy New Year! I will be posting Christmas pictures soon, so stay tuned....

Our beautiful boy..

2009-11-22T10:31:00.004-05:00

I wanted to share the latest portraits we had taken. They turned out so great!

We're back!

2009-11-21T15:54:00.004-05:00

I am not using an overused joke when I say it's Kanye's fault that I haven't posted in awhile. It really is Kanye's fault. The night of the VMA's, Bob was watching some sort of sporting event (I know that's weird) and I kept seeing on facebook people posting about some Kanye incident. I wanted to see what happened, so I googled the incident and when I clicked on the first website that popped up that said I could watch the VMAs my computer freaked out because I had just downloaded lots of viruses. So, after a few weeks of giving our computer to a family friend, it is fixed and I am able to catch everyone up on the past few months.

September was busy! We spent a weekend in upstate NY attending Bob's cousin's wedding and visiting with his family. It was such a beautiful wedding. We had a lot of fun with the in-laws and their friends and it was great getting to show Charlie off for at least the cocktail hour. THANK YOU to Gerald and Nancy (Bob's aunt and uncle) for babysitting and being willing to bring Charlie to make his appearance.

The following weekend we headed to Boston. What an awesome city! I love going back there and seeing Bob's college friends. The purpose of our visit centered around a fundraiser for the BC Crew team, but we also spent a day shopping and, of course, hit the BC football game.

October was all about Halloween. I had a great time seeing what Halloween is like in our neighborhood. By neighborhood, I am not talking subdivisions. I mean blocks of houses, apartments, pubs, restaurants and shops. We live in between 2 neighborhoods, Roscoe Village (my favorite) and Northcenter/Lincoln Square. Roscoe Village has a lot of family oriented activities and many wonderful boutiques and shops that are fun to walk around. They have a Halloween parade each year and all the families come out with the kids dressed in costume and we march up Roscoe. The stores host trick-or-treaters and the parents socialize. On the actual day of Halloween, we went trick-or-treating with our friend Erin and her daughter Emma and her nephew. City trick-or-treating is endless! Within a few blocks the kids have HUNDREDS of houses and apartments that they can hit for candy. It was funny to hear about how short blocks aren't as popular as long blocks because of the smaller number of houses. I can only imagine the amount of candy some kids come home with if they spend hours going from door to door. Charlie was the cutest monkey around.

So far, November has been beautiful and quiet. Uncle Pat turned 30! We had a great party for him last weekend. My brother and sister-in law just found out they are having another BOY! This will be the 7th grandkid for my family! We are all very excited to meet this little person in late April/early May.

Now we are gearing up for Thanksgiving and then CHRISTMAS! I am so excited for Christmas this year. I can't imagine how crazy I will be when Charlie is aware of what is happening. My mom is coming in 2 weeks!!!! Bob and I are headed to Key West for a wedding and she is going to babysit and then spend a few days. I am hoping my dad comes as well (hint hint).

I will leave you with the most AMAZING part of our fall. This past week we had another ultrasound done on Charlie's kidney to check and see if we are still in need of surgery in December. The urologist told us this was just a formality and that it was very unlikely that we would cancel the surgery. BUT, we are!!!! The ultrasound showed that things are starting to get better so we are giving it another 3 months and then we will check it again. God is good!!! The power of prayer is an amazing thing and I am so thankful to everyone that said a prayer on Charlie's behalf - it worked!!!! We will keep praying for continued improvement so that in February they tell us we can continue to avoid surgery.
Hope you enjoy the slideshow below of our last 3 months. Happy Thanksgiving! What a year of blessings!

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Some 4 month pictures

2009-09-03T15:03:00.006-04:00

A Week of Firsts...

2009-08-27T13:27:00.005-04:00

Charlie is doing great! He is days away from being 5 months old, which is very hard to believe. At his 4 month check-up, he was 15lbs 7oz and 26 inches long. He has always had a personality, but it really is getting fun to watch him become more social and watch him react to sounds, touches and games. The greatest thing is hearing all the new sounds he can make and recognizing the sounds he is beginning to repeat throughout the day. He is a happy, happy baby!
Sleep is amazing! Charlie is now going to bed around 7:30pm and we wake him up at 7:30am. Every once in awhile we have a 2am or 3 am wake up call, but I am not complaining! Naps are still a work in progress but for the most part he takes a 9am nap, a 1pm nap and most days a small late afternoon nap. The length of naps is never the same, but we are getting there.
This past week, we started Charlie on a small amount of cereal. We are merely doing this to practice with the spoon and slowly introduce food into his day. Right now, he gets a few bites with his late afternoon meal. Below is a video of his very first taste of cereal. The facial expressions are priceless.
Our other first this week is that we have rolled over! I have been so concerned over the past month that he hasn't done this yet and finally we can! Charlie has always hated being on his stomach and I am not a fan of letting him scream, so I don't force the issue. This week we have been able to have longer tummy time sessions and all of a sudden he is rolling! He can also roll from side to side on his back, so maybe we will be rolling both ways soon! It is very exciting (and scary) to think this means we are getting close to our little man being mobile.
Everything else is great. We are headed into a VERY busy September. My mom is coming to visit, U2 concert at Soldier Field, Bob's birthday (19th), a trip to Upstate NY for Bob's cousin's wedding, a trip to Boston for a BC crew fundraiser and football game, and hopefully Charlie's first Cubs game. I hope to remember to take plenty of pictures and should have lots to share next month.
(WARNING - I have a very annoying voice on video!)

We'll do anything to make him laugh...

2009-08-03T15:49:00.005-04:00

Charlie has been laughing for awhile now, but it's getting funnier and funnier and we are willing to do just about anything to hear it. You never know what is going to get him going or exactly why he thinks it's so funny, but it is the greatest thing to watch.

Yesterday, Bob was hitting the side of the couch to play around with Charlie and this is what happened...

Charlie's 3 month portrait and the Chaffin grandkids

2009-07-28T21:09:00.002-04:00

While we were in Atlanta we took care of getting Charlie's 3 month portrait and took a picture of all the kids. I am so glad we did this and hope to start a new tradition for our family. Enjoy!

The ATL and Brady's trip to Chi-town

2009-07-28T12:45:00.013-04:00

This past month has been full! We spent a week in Atlanta visiting my family and seeing as many friends as possible. Following this trip, my nephew Brady visited Chicago with my mom. Mom brought Cooper to NY when he was 6, so she promised any grand kid that wants to take a trip at 6 she would take them.
Our trip to Atlanta started with just taking it easy at my parent's. On Friday, we went to see my brother, my grandmother and then met all of my siblings at my sister's house for dinner. Saturday started with a visit to my cousin Allison and Mark's, who had a baby on March 21st. It was nice to put the babies together as well as see my aunt, uncle and cousin Meredith. For lunch, we met our friends Jessica, Katie and Robbie. Jessica and Katie taught with me in Nashville. Jessica now lives in Virginia Highlands in Atlanta and Katie and Robbie drove over to Atlanta from Alabama so they could see us and meet Charlie. It was great to catch up with them and remember our days starting out as teachers together.
That evening we went to Jennifer and Shane's to see her new baby, Sam, and her 2 year old Madelyn. We had a nice time hanging out with the Orrs and seeing Kim and meeting her new friend, "Big Charlie" as Madelyn called him. Sunday we had a nice lunch with the family at my parents as well as my Uncle Ed and Aunt Eva. My trip ended with a wonderful dinner with my 9th grade english teacher, Nancy Ward. It was nice to sit down and catch her up on the past few years. It was great to share with everyone Charlie and what a wonderful baby he is.
Tuesday we flew back to Chicago with Mom and Brady. We visited Navy Pier, took a boat tour on the Seadog, the Chicago Children's Museum, went to the Lincoln Park Zoo and went bowling (Brady beat me in both games). We spent their last day down by the lake at museum campus to tour the planetarium and then Brady and Bob went to the Field Museum to see the Pirate Exhibit. Unfortunately, the exhibit wasn't as kid friendly as we had hoped.
I loved having Brady here. It was fun to have a boy in the house to see how much fun we will keep having as Charlie grows up. It also allowed me to practice my Guitar Hero skills. We ended every night with a face off on Guitar Hero. I can't remember the last time we played our Wii, so I was very glad to put it to use.
Things keep getting better and better. Charlie is the best baby! We tossed our "schedule" out the window after our trip to Atlanta, but we are getting back on track. I just joined "Fit Mamas" which is a stroller exercise class 3 days a week. My first class was yesterday and it was nice to meet other moms and get some exercise. It really is amazing how much better my day feels by starting it right. Bob is doing well. Just cruising along.
August should be a slow but relaxing month for us. We hope to take advantage of the rest of the summer and hopefully take Charlie to his first Cubs game. It's hard to believe Charlie will be 4 months on Saturday.
Enjoy the pics - there is a ton of them!

When we arrived from the airport, Caren, Cooper and Brady were waiting to meet Charlie. Cooper was so tired, but still excited!

Brady and Charlie

Eli and his new playground. Geoff did a great job building this for him.

Charlie in his first outdoor swing

Geoff, Alyson and Eli

Charlie meeting his great-grandmother.

Mackenzie doing her "Model Pose" She is a riot!

Cooper, Madison, Mac and Brady

Silly faces!

My cousin's baby, Elizabeth Grace and Charlie

My cousin Allison, Elisabeth Grace, Charlie and me

My Aunt Faye and cousin Meredith

Lunch with Katie and Jessica

Jennifer's baby Sam and Charlie. They're holding hands...it was so cute!

Jennifer's little girl Madelyn

Sam and Charlie practicing their kicks. I forgot to take a picture of the adults.

The boys riding the train at the Mall of Georgia.

Charlie lifting his head and Cooper looking on.

Brady in Chicago about to board the Seadog

On the boat

The swings at Navy Pier

The ferris wheel at Navy Pier

The children's museum - Brady climbing the big treehouse

The dinosaur

The water world at the children's museum

In the big tree

Digging for fossils

We got to see the Budweiser Clydesdales at Navy Pier

My favorite Guitar Hero

Gigi and Charlie night bowling

About to bowl his 4th spare in a row!

In front of the planetarium

Down at Museum Campus

Father's Day, Pool Days and 3 Month Pictures

2009-07-09T12:22:00.006-04:00

June and July have been a lot of fun so far. We are still adjusting to Charlie's ever changing days. He has started on an earlier bedtime, but this means I am getting up in the middle of the night again. Hopefully, this will go away soon!
My parents visited for Father's Day and we had a nice brunch with Bob's family, followed by a walk down by the Museum's and the lake. It was nice to spend a father's day with my Dad. It has been at least 4 years since I have spent a Father's Day with him. Plus, he was pretty excited to spend it with his new grandson.
I loved celebrating Bob's first Father's Day. We got him a new phone, "Dad" clothes, as well as some new duds for work. I am very lucky to have Bob and it is such a thrill watching him as a Dad.
I know I always talk about the weather, but it's a big deal for me. The winter we experienced was the worst winter I have ever experienced. I didn't know I could get the winter blues until we moved here. The spring was chilly. Now, Bob will tell me that this is how spring is supposed to be. He thinks the southeast skips over spring and goes straight to summer, but come on! I need at least 70s and 60s not 60s and 50s. Now we are in the midst of July and yesterday it was 60 degrees. We have had some nice days, but I am ready for a stretch of nice days that last until October.
When it's nice, we like to head over to Bob's parents and hang out at their building's pool. It's a great set up with gazebos that allow Charlie to stay in the shade and plenty of sun so I can try and look human and not like a character in Twilight. We have put Charlie in the pool just to get his legs in the water. He loves to watch the water move around and Bob loves getting him in with him. I am sure my son will learn to swim before I do.
All in all, the past 3 months have been great. Charlie is starting to show more emotions - especially his temper. My sweet, "he never cries" baby is learning how to scream to let his voice be heard. He has even mastered his pouty face. His lower lip rolls out and he tilts his head at you. It's amazing seeing him learn these reactions and the reactions he gets from them. He is reaching for things and grabbing hold of what he can. He hates being on his tummy, so we have to take tummy time in small doses. His laugh is becoming more and more a belly laugh. Although, this inevitably turns into hiccups. It's terrible (but so cute) to watch him try and laugh through the hiccups.
Next week we head to Atlanta. I am so excited to see my nieces and nephews!!!! I can't wait to see them with Charlie and add him to the amazing Chaffin grandkid mix. We will also get to see some friends, my grandmother and hopefully as much of my extended family as possible. Charlie has a second cousin to meet that is 2 weeks older, Elizabeth Grace, and his buddy Sam, who is 2 months older. I am looking forward to seeing him with other babies.
Hope you enjoy our latest pics!

The biggest deal!

Go Cubs Go!

4th of July Outfit! Aren't overalls cute!

Just chillin at the pool...

Who's got the better tan? Bob or Charlie?

"First you have to blow bubbles."

Gigi on the way to the airport. We will miss you!

Bob, Pop Pop and Charlie on Father's Day

The happy couple...

The other happy couple...Happy First Father's Day Bob!!!

Happy Father's Day Dad!

Bob and Charlie at brunch. Yes, we even brunch at sports bars...

The Grandpas at brunch

"Pop Pop, why is your hair so messy?"

Pictures, Pictures, Pictures...

2009-06-16T10:47:00.003-04:00

Silly, Silly Boy

Practicing our boxing moves

He's determined to get the butterfly

Too Cute!

Talking up a storm

Bob is starting early getting him to cheer for the Chicago teams. Go Blackhawks!

Just hanging out with Grandma in my cute hat.

Reading with Dad

Thinking...

Sleeping on Daddy

Charlie was staring the butterfly down

Happy Baby!!!!

The 2 Month Update!

2009-06-15T19:52:00.006-04:00

At the 2 month mark, Charlie weighs 12lbs 14oz and is 24.5 inches long. He is just above average for weight but is in the 90th percentile for height, which means that he is a tall boy! Basketball scholarship here we come (no pressure, Charlie)!

Things are going really well. We are sleeping at least 6 hour stretches at night. We just recently experienced a 7 hour night followed by an 8.5 hour night, only to go back to our 6 hour stretches. We are very close to consistently "sleeping through the night."

Charlie is kicking, cooing, smiling and laughing all day. Rarely he shows us his temper. He is really mild tempered. He only cries when he is hungry, tired or gassy.

There are moments that it seems he is about to roll over. He gets his legs kicking so hard and high that he almost throws himself around, but we just can't figure out how to tuck our shoulder in. The funniest thing so far is that he has found his hands. He balls up his fist and moves them around as if he was boxing. We filmed this one night and we find it hilarious, but we realize it may not be funny to anyone else.

We have been visited by many friends here in Chicago, but Charlie also got to meet Kim, who was my maid of honor, MJ and Vicky from Boston College, and Melissa, who is a good friend from Nashville. We even got to see my mom again!

Bob is doing great. He is such an awesome dad! His job continues to progress and he seems pleased with how things are going.

I am trying to move Charlie toward a steady schedule but I am not stressing over it. I keep reminding myself he is only 2 and a half months old.

THANK GOD the weather is improving. It has been rainy and chilly until this week. We are getting out more, going for walks and exploring our neighborhood.

We are looking forward to this weekend being Father's Day and will get to spend it with Bob's family and my parents. In a few weeks we head to Atlanta so Charlie can meet his aunts, uncles and cousins as well as his great-grandmother, our friends and extended family. We can't wait....

Hope you enjoy these pictures and videos. Happy Summer Everyone!!!

1 Month Old!!!!

2009-05-11T16:40:00.002-04:00

I can 't believe it's been a month! Well, actually, almost 6 weeks now that I am finally getting around to updating the blog. It really has been an amazing experience and we are so fortunate to have such a good baby.
Every one's first question is, "How is he sleeping?" Well, I have to brag, he always gives us 3 hour stretches at night, but lately he has been throwing in 4 and 5 hour stretches here and there. The night leading into Mother's Day, Bob put him down at 11:30pm and he woke up at 4:00am. It was amazing!!!! I had gone to bed at 11, so 5 hours of sleep was enough to make me feel like a brand new woman!
We had a nice Mother's Day that started with brunch with Bob's family and then ended with a walk in Lincoln Park down by the lake. Bob spoiled me with amazing gifts and made it a great day for all of us.

Last week we went to the doctor for his month (or 5 week) check-up. Charlie is up to 11lbs 1oz and 23 inches long. He is shaping up to be a tall boy! Everything looked great and we are continuing to learn and adjust everyday to his changing needs.

Hope you enjoy these pics!

On the way to brunch for Mother's Day...He is so cool

We had a wonderful visit by Todd and Laura, our friends from Nashville. They were in town for a little get away and to see the Cubs play the Cardinals. It was so nice to see them and get to hang out. Charlie was a big fan of his new friends.

Latest Pic

2009-04-06T23:42:00.003-04:00

Here is a picture we took today heading home from the pediatrician. I LOVE HIM!

2009-04-06T23:38:00.001-04:00

Charles Hudson Milhizer

Wednesday, April 1, 2009

2:38PM

7lbs 11 oz

21 inches

King Charles Has Arrived!

2009-04-06T23:03:00.003-04:00

We are very pleased and excited to announce that Charlie had made his grand appearance. I have felt all along that we would go a little early, but Bob and I were very surprised this past Tuesday night when we were on our way to the hospital.

So here's how it happened...

Tuesday, March 31st
I woke up Tuesday feeling exhausted. I decided to lay down and Bob's parents called asking if I wanted to go to the movies with them. I went, figuring my being able to just go to a movie on a whim was soon to be a luxury. During the movie, I noticed I was feeling some strange things, but chalked it up to Braxton Hicks. I got home from the movie and was very uncomfortable. I decided to walk for awhile and see if I felt better. It soon went away and again I figured it was Braxton Hicks. I was still pretty tired so I laid down. Bob's brother Pat came over and the 3 of us had dinner. By 9pm, when Pat was headed home, I was VERY uncomfortable. Not contractions, just strange burning feelings. I will leave out the next few unpleasant details, but it ends with my water breaking and us heading to the hospital at 11:30pm.

Bob's favorite part of this story is that he made sure that I grabbed a towel for the car. I had the towel, I just put it in the floorboard, rather than the seat. We were driving down Addison and hit a huge pothole (0ne of thousands here in Chicago) and let's just say I REALLY needed that towel but couldn't reach it. Bob thinks it's hilarious that I didn't think to cover the seat. Oh well...

We arrived at the hospital to find out that I was not dilated and was just starting to have contractions. About 2am we headed to our labor room. At 3:3oam I was 3cms dilated and in need of some pain meds, so we started the epidural. By 9:00am I was 6cms and by 11am I was 10. Which meant we could start pushing. So from, 11:20am until 3:00pm I pushed with every contraction and was EXHAUSTED. I spiked a fever during this process, which meant once he was out he would have to be closely monitored to make sure he did not develop an infection. Then, the doctors started whispering a little and finally told me that they suspected that he was "sunny side up." I had 2 choices, forceps or C-section. Charlie had made it all the way to my pelvic bone, but couldn't get any further. I felt that he was pretty low and I liked the idea of being able to finish what I had started, so we opted to have faith that the forceps would work.

Once I made my decision, the room filled with numerous nurses and doctors. My pain meds were upped and the process began. 3 sets of pushes later, our little boy was out and screaming! I have to give praise to my team of doctors and nurses. Dr. Garb, was amazing and was the perfect person to be on call that day. He kept me laughing and optimistic that I was going to be able to get through this. We were so lucky to give birth at Prentice Women's Hospital. It really is an amazing place. So, Charlie was taken immediately to start being monitored. His poor little head took quite a beating between hitting the pelvic bone over and over facing the wrong direction and then from being yanked out by forceps. Luckily, this is healing fast and very well.
I also went through some trauma and it took about a half hour to be stitched up before I could hold my baby.

From here, Bob and I headed to the NICU to try and feed Charlie and get to know our little man. We spent the next 2 days there with him and trying to get as much rest as possible while we were surrounded with nurses and people to take care of everyone. Charlie had some difficulty maintaining his glucose levels, so we had to be on an aggressive feeding schedule. I pumped and gave him what I could, but he had to be supplemented heavily with bottles of formula.

As of now, the kidney issue is stable and looking to be moderate. The left kidney is large, but not causing any trouble for him. We will undergo a test next week to be sure that there is no sign of reflux and then go from there. In the meantime all we have to do is give him an antibiotic every morning.

So, Friday evening the 3 of us plus my mom headed home. My mom was called at 11:30pm on Tuesday to alert her that my water broke and was in Chicago by 9am the next morning - AMAZING. We had a ROUGH first night but the last two have been great. He is going 3-4 hour stretches, which is not bad for 5 days old. We went to the pediatrician today and he is 1lb over his birth weight so the doc said we did not have to wake him during the night.

Becoming a mother is the most amazing thing that has ever happened to me. Delivery was the hardest thing I have ever been through, but I would do it everyday if it meant I got to have this little one. Bob and I are learning so much and it's amazing watching him become a father. He wants to be the best dad he can be and I know that he already is. What a wonderful journey that has started for us.

Days to go...

2009-03-30T18:21:00.003-04:00

I can't believe we have just days to go before our little one arrives. It feels like yesterday that I was planning on running a 10K and telling Bob that I didn't want to get pregnant until September. Little did we know that I already was and we headed to Nashville for Greg and Annie's wedding. Then we got the news and we were headed to California for Spencer's wedding and what I was hoping to be a relaxing week in Malibu, Carmel, and San Francisco tasting wine and eating lots of great seafood. Needless to say, no wine was consumed and I limited the seafood!
Then, right before Christmas, came the news that we were moving to Chicago. I definitely have been through a whirlwind during this pregnancy and I should be grateful that things have settled down, but I am downright BORED! I know I will regret saying this in a few weeks, but I have never not been busy and I am not good at waiting.
I feel I am ready for Charlie to arrive so part of me just wants it to happen. So, my plan for the next how ever many days is to read, keep things clean and clothes washed, try to figure out a way to make our very dark hardwood floors not show dust and just relax. Bob and I are headed to the Blackhawks/Predators game on Friday, which I guess will be our last big night out before becoming parents. Keep us in your prayers!

Showers

2009-03-18T17:16:00.007-04:00

This is just a post to let everyone know that we are very grateful for all of the celebrations we have been given on behalf of our baby.
Our friends in NY had a nice farewell for us. My book club had a special night for me where they each gave Charlie their favorite childhood book. I thought this was such a great idea! Thank you ladies!!!!
My girlfriends in Nashville, led by Amanda, Jill and Laura, gave me a wonderful day of getting to see friends and being showered with wonderful gifts for the baby. Thank you everyone!!!!!
Here in Chicago, Bob's Mom, Donna and her daughter Carol, threw us a wonderful afternoon with Bob's high school friends and many of the Milhizer's family friends. We were so overwhelmed by everyone's generosity. Thank you!
I also want to thank my parents for traveling to Nashville and Chicago to attend these events. It is very nice to have you be part of these celebrations. Thank you to my sister Caren for making it to the Nashville shower.

Yesterday, Bob's co-workers treated us to lunch and gave us a TON of clothes and diapers for Charlie. Thank you ladies!!!!!!!

I promise I will be getting thank yous out soon....

We did a horrible job getting group shots in Nashville and Chicago. Very sorry that these pictures don't represent the groups very well.

The book club girls enjoying Sarah's wonderful cooking.

Sarah, Dana and Liz

After dinner we met up with Bob and his friends. We were sad to say goodbye to Geoff and Mandy (again). We hope you follow us to the mid-west soon!

Erin and Van

Stew, Danielle, Karen and Pat

Nicole and Marcus

The creative work in Nashville.

My sister Caren, Amanda, Laura and Baby Saylor! Thank you to Amanda and Laura for hosting.

Jill, hard at work. Jill was also a host! Thank you.

Bob's mom looking on at the gifts we were given.

Me, Bob and Charlie

It can't be a Chicago shower without a Cubs outfit. Thank you to Karen Colleran!

Nieces and Nephews....

2009-03-18T16:59:00.006-04:00

I posted some pictures recently of my nephew Eli and promised to post some updated pictures of the older kids as well. I know I am biased, but my siblings make some beautiful babies!!! Cooper is 7
Brady is 6
Madison will be 6 on Saturday - Happy Birthday!!!!
Mackenzie is 2
Enjoy!!!!

Madi and Mac at the beach last fall.

Brady and Cooper - best of friends (most of the time).

Don't know why I can't make this bigger....Madi has a superhero party.

Tough guy! Cooper in his football gear

Brady at Circus Day at his school...sad little tiger!

Charlie's Room...

2009-03-11T15:53:00.005-04:00

And the winner is.....Charles Hudson Milhizer

Yes, it's official, we have decided on his name. We are very excited and both feel confident that we have picked a winner. For those that don't know, Charlie was the name of my mom's father. Charles is also the river that Bob rowed in Boston for BC crew. He spent every morning for 4 years on the Charles river so it has a lot of meaning for him personally. Hudson is the river in New York that we lived on while we lived there. We spent many days at Riverside park and we felt this represented the time in our life that we moved to New York early in our marriage and then decided to start our family. Also, if you follow the Hudson river north you will end up in Troy, New York which is where Bob's parents grew up.

Charlie's room is a fun, colorful Dr. Seuss room. I have a few things left to do, but it is pretty much done. My mom was in town over the last few days and we went through everything to make sure I have enough clothes, pajamas, and necessities for the the baby. She was a big help and I feel so much better about bringing baby home. Here is what it looks like so far...

This wall was beautifully painted by Joey Lala (if anyone in Chicago needs a great painter). I told him my idea for the stripes and he made it better than I could have imagined.

We love the Cat in the Hat!

This was a floor puzzle that I found at Borders Books. I put it together and had it framed. Yertle the Turtle is one of my favorite Dr. Seuss stories, so this was an exciting find and it worked out great!

The sheet is fun and colorful! Full of lots of Dr. Seuss characters.

Changing table

Book shelve with many of the gifts we were given - Thank you!!!!

Closer shot of the wall decal...

I wanted to purchase the 4 prints Pottery Barn Kids is selling of Dr. Seuss characters. Unfortunately, they were out of my budget. So, I took the matching pillow case and cut out some of the characters. I then doctored them up and created a very similar look for next to nothing! I love it...

I can't get a picture of the room all together, so I hope this gives everyone an idea of what it looks like. 4 and a half weeks to go!!!!!

My nephew Eli

2009-02-27T18:27:00.003-05:00

I was just looking at my sister-in-law's facebook page and these pictures of my nephew Eli made me so happy I wanted to share them with everyone. Many of you have met the first 4 grandkids in our family, Cooper, Brady, Madison and Mackenzie but due to Bob and I moving to New York shortly after Eli being born, I haven't been around to share how cute he is.

Anyway, one of the funniest things is Eli laughing. He is such a happy and cute little boy. You can tell he gets lots of love!

Enjoy...I will try to get updated pictures from my sisters to share with you how much Madison, Mackenzie, Cooper and Brady have grown as well.

Transition and Baby Update

2009-02-25T11:02:00.000-05:00

Hello everyone! Greetings from the Windy City.
Unfortunately, this will be another post without pictures, but I figured it was time to update everyone on how our move has gone.
We arrived on January 24th to a bitterly cold, snow covered town. We stayed with Bob's parents until our stuff arrived. The moving company ended up being a small pain in the butt but at the end of the day, we have our belongings and only a few things were broken.
Our apartment is amazing. I am having a hard time filling it up. It only took a few days to put our place in New York together, so I am trying to be patient and let this happen a little at a time. However, that is easier said than done when you are getting bigger and bigger and the due date countdown keeps getting closer and closer.
The big priority this week is the baby's room. I have decided on a Dr. Seuss theme. I am piecing together Dr. Seuss items and decor that I have found from various places. I have always loved Dr. Seuss for his quirky way of teaching lessons to kids. His wacky characters are easy to relate to no matter how far out there they may be. Today, the room is being painted and the rest of the week I will begin putting the final touches on.
After the baby's room, we will look at finishing the rest of the apartment. Biggest items are finishing getting furniture, window treatments and then filling the walls and decorating it into a home.
I am most excited that we begin our search for a car this weekend. We lived perfectly fine in New York without one, but it's a slightly different story here in Chicago. We have been fortunate to have Pat's car when I need it. I am doing a great job learning the bus routes in our neighborhood and I could do the train to Michigan Avenue in my sleep at this point.
So, as far as the move goes, we are getting settled and learning how life works here in Chicago.

Baby Update:
We had another ultrasound yesterday. For those of you that know, we were given some great news that it looks like the kidney issue is working itself out. It isn't completely gone, but it is getting better which tells the doctors that the likelihood of it either going away before he is born or working out on it's own when he is born is much greater than expected.
I am measuring what I am supposed to be measuring, BUT little guy is measuring a lot bigger than he should be at this point. According to the ultrasound, which isn't always accurate (so keep this in mind), he is in the 90th percentile of weight and size for 33 weeks. They are guessing his weight to be 6lbs 15 oz already! Now, again, there is a margin of error with ultrasounds. They may expect him to be a 9lb plus baby and then he end up being an 8lb baby. He may just be a go-getter and decided to get all of his growing out of the way so he can just chill out for the last part of the pregnancy. All this to say, I will be mentally prepared for my big baby and hope that all goes easily and well.

I will try to post pictures soon. We just got internet at home and are having a few issues with the computer. I should have some pictures to post of the showers in Nashville and Chicago. We were very overwhelmed by the generosity and love we were shown through these two events. Thank you!!!!!

The Journey Continues...

2009-01-20T11:02:00.003-05:00

When I married Bob Milhizer I knew that life was going to be unpredictable and that he had big plans for himself and our family. Even when you know things going in, you don't have the ability to understand what that means and how it will play out. This is why I picked the quote that I did for the header of our blog...there has been great meaning in our life and many lessons learned because of our willingness to follow opportunity and take chances at the unknown.
If you haven't heard, we are moving this Saturday to Chicago. Bob's company has asked him to take over managing their Chicago office. I guess you could say this is a lateral move for him, but in the grand scheme of things he is expected to go in and fix a struggling situation. It just so happens that Bob is from Chicago and this puts us close to his family and friends from high school. I am very proud to know that Bob is looked at as the guy that they think can fix a very important market for his company. It is for reasons like this that it makes it easy for me to be supportive and willing to move again.
So you may be wondering how I feel about this move. This is a very complicated subject and I will try to answer this the best I can. First of all, let's look at the pros:
1. We will be near family and with Baby Boy on the way, I know this will be something that will be irreplaceable.
2. I am now able to make a choice as to whether or not I want to stay at home or go back to work. New York and it's cost of living was going to prove to be a little more challenging to figure out where we should live and whether my job would have paid me enough to contribute to our finances and pay for the cost of childcare. I am very relieved to not have to worry about this.
3. SPACE!!!! We are about to move into a brand new 3 bedroom, 2 bath condo that is about 1 mile from Wrigley Field, 2 miles from the Lake. Having lived with zero bedrooms for 20 months it is so exciting to think that visitors don't have to sleep in front of us, walk through our closet to go to the bathroom, and all the other "cozy" things that we have actually gotten used to. Plus, now we have a baby's room and a guest room!!!! Visitors welcome!!!! My parents, I'm sure, are pleased that they don't have to sleep in the same room with us. It is also very thrilling to know that our baby will have his own room. If we would have stayed in Manhattan we would have been sharing a 1 bedroom apartment with the baby.
4. Bob has great friends in Chicago from high school that we know will be a great support system as we get ourselves settled and I learn the city.
5. Eventually, we will get a car.......so exciting for this suburban raised Southern girl.

So, maybe now you are wondering what I will miss about New York. This is a harder question to answer. I am not sure that I ever fell in love with living here. More than anything, I fell in love with the idea that I was doing it and that I was capable of adjusting to such a different way of life.
Bob has loved living here and thrives on the big city mindset and what he has been able to accomplish in the most competitive and demanding city in our country. He is very happy to be moving home, but I know the New York bug isn't quite out of him. For me, this has been much more of a test and challenge. I have looked at this time as a step on our journey that has helped us grow as a couple and as individuals. I was able to arrive in New York without a job, find an amazing family to befriend and work for as their nanny and then move on to one of the most historical and amazing music organizations in this nation. Working at Carnegie Hall has taught me so much and I find myself very sad in leaving the work that I have been doing. I was able to find a place within my program, The Academy, that was needed and accepted quickly by the staff. My perspective coming from the classroom was appreciated more than I expected it would be and put to use much more than I thought it would be. I got to create my role and mold it to be what I could offer the most and what the program needed the most. It has opened up a new world of possibilities when I look to going back to work.
So here's my list of what I will miss:
1. Our view of the river and Riverside Park.
2. Our walks through Central Park.
3. Walking in and out of Carnegie Hall 5 days a week.
4. Going to shows and never being disappointed in the talent.
5. The possibility of running into the crazy lady who screams in every aisle of Duane Reade.
6. My job.
7. Never knowing what you might see on any given day.
8. The path to work may have been the same, but the scenery was always different.
9. Knowing I was capable of living here and being happy.

What I won't miss about New York:
1. The trash on the street.
2. The grocery stores - I MISS KROGER AND PUBLIX MORE THAN I CAN EXPLAIN!!!!
3. The general attitude and the difficulty to feel truly connected to people.
4. Having to walk no matter the weather. I have lost count of the amount of umbrellas I have gone through and shoes that are ruined.
5. Scaffolding and construction.
6. I love our little apartment and it taught us how to just deal with issues without a place to hide, but I am not going to miss our lack of space.
7. Expensive food and being disappointed in most of the restaurants we go to.
8. The cost of living..........

So, our time is running out. It is truly bittersweet. This is much easier on me than the move from Nashville. I will update everyone next week on our arrival. I am most excited that I will be in Nashville in a week and a half. I can't wait to see everyone and just relax for a few days. Lots to come on this Milhizer Mania Journey. As our friend Mandy reminded me the other night, the only thing constant in life is change.

The Last Few Months

2009-01-07T21:41:00.003-05:00

It's been awhile since I have updated this blog (sorry Rhondi!). I will try and update everyone as best as possible as to what has been going on over the last few months.

1. Thanksgiving

We spent Thanksgivng in Chicago with Bob's family. It was very nice to be there and get to relax with everyone. Bob's parents are very excited about the baby and it was fun to get to share with them my belly and the pictures from our ultrasound. Bob's brother, however, wasn't a fan of the pictures. Pat is a bit of a wuss when it comes to veins, blood and other such things! He and his girlfriend, Erin, hung out with us a ton and it was great! I really like this girl!!!!!!

I unfortunately forgot my camera so I don't have any pictures to share of our visit.

2. Christmas

We were back in Atlanta for Christmas this year. I love getting to be home and spend as much time with my nieces and nephews as possible. I am amazed each time I see them how much they have grown, gotten cuter, smarter and funnier! My brother's little boy, Eli, has probably changed the most. He is so cute and really has an amazing personality. Mackenzie and Madison continue to get prettier and are into so many things. They love Hannah Montana!!!!! Cooper and Brady are into so many things as well. They got a Wii for Christmas so they got to take on Aunt Aimee and Uncle Bob in Wii sports. I think the funniest part of the trip was watching Bob get beat by a 7 year old in Star Wars (light saber fighting) and also watching him lose 66 to 0 in football - again to a 7 year old!!!! All in all the Chaffin clan is doing well. We had a very nice Christmas together.

Pictures to come....

It's a boy...

2008-11-22T09:28:00.011-05:00

Baby Milhizer looking up, just hanging out.

This is a picture of his arm crossed over his chest.

This is one of the 4D pictures of his face. The right side of the picture if his face. The left shows the umbilical cord.

What a beautiful profile...

Yesterday was our 20 week ultrasound and hands down this was the coolest experience we have shared. Immediately, the sonogram technician asked us if we wanted to know the sex. Seems the little guy isn't shy about showing his stuff. We watched him move around as she checked every vital organ, limb and feature. I know it's hard to tell, but our boy is beautiful! He's even a little stubborn. He moved when he wanted to move, not necessarily when or how the sonogram technician wanted him to. The doctor followed up and made sure that everything was measuring as it should be and it was all "beautiful" and "perfect."

The best part was watching the baby move. At one point his mouth was opening and closing as if he was telling us to stop poking at him. Then he sucked his thumb and kept covering his face when the doctor was trying to get a good 4D image of his little face.

It is just so amazing to see what has developed and how he looks like a baby now. He is weighing 12oz. and is 8 inches long. They projected my due date might be a little earlier, more like April 7th, but my doctor will confirm at my next visit on December 2nd. I think we may have a big boy!

BC vs Clemson

2008-11-03T17:29:00.008-05:00

This weekend Kim came into town and we headed up to Boston to see some BC friends and catch the BC/Clemson game. It was great to be in Boston again. I forget how much I love it until we go back and I am reminded of the architecture, history and Bob's connection to the city. It was fun to hear the "Bob Milhizer Tour of Boston" again. Since it's been 10 years since Kim had been in Boston, he felt the need to make sure she was given every bit of information he had and his connection to it. His time at Boston College was very important to him and it's always nice to get to see him back in that element. Now, if the team could have only won.

The game was a bit of a roller coaster. BC was down 17-7 at halftime and then came back and was leading in the 4th quarter 21 t0 17. Unfortunately, there was too much time left and Clemson came back and won.

These pictures are horrible of us, but it was fun!

Bob was seriously watching the game. He gets into the zone and you better watch out!

Saylor Time...

2008-10-28T21:53:00.003-04:00

I just spent an incredible weekend away from the city in Dallas, TX. I went to visit Amanda and her new baby girl, Saylor. It was great to see Amanda doing so well, see her parents and get to meet her amazing baby. Saylor is 3 months old and is really showing her personality. I think my favorite thing is the sound she has learned to make with her mouth. She is a happy and healthy baby and BEAUTIFUL!!!!!

Our Two Year Anniversary

2008-10-22T21:21:00.012-04:00

Yesterday was our two year anniversary. My amazing husband surprised me with a wonderful day on Sunday of apple picking in the Hudson Valley. I love the fall more than any other season and to experience fall foliage in this region is absolutely amazing. I have seen beautiful leaves before, but nothing like this. It truly was the most beautiful day I have ever had. Unfortunately, the trees were seen from the car so I have no pictures to prove what I am saying. We did take a picture or two at the apple orchard, which was beautiful as well. It's crazy that an hour and a half outside of New York City we were in the country picking our own apples.

On the actual day of our anniversary we went to dinner. Bob surprised me (again) with a trip to Brooklyn to have dinner at the River Cafe. This gorgeous restaurant sits on the East River across from Manhattan so you sit at your table looking at the skyline of the lower half of Manhattan.

Facebook Smacebook...

2008-10-22T21:00:00.002-04:00

So I decided that I don't really like Facebook. I get that many people do and that it is fun at first catching up with people and seeing where people ended up. After awhile you have probably found who you wanted to and then you start getting surprised by who finds you. There is probably a reason we lost touch in the first place and now I have created a blog so that the people I want to know about my life can know about my life.
The main reason for this blog is I live in New York City and our family and our best friends live in Atlanta, Nashville, Chicago and Boston and other cities across the country. I wanted an easy way to keep everyone updated on our life and our upcoming bundle of joy. So, enjoy the mania....