The Merriman's

Changes..

2009-01-08T10:50:00.000-08:00

It's been quite the eventful end of last year and start of the new one (which partly explains my lack of posting :P) so I have decided to follow Kerry's lead and start a new blog!

Visit us here from here on out!

Holiday Happenings...

2008-12-26T13:40:00.001-08:00

We are on the Island right now, having a VERY white Christmas. Santa spoiled us all — good thing we brought the utility trailer so we can haul it all home! Ben is having a hoot, especially because he is getting a great big huge dose of Granny (his favourite person!) and the combination of Christmas — fun fun fun! Mike totally surprised me and got me a Nikon D60 camera.. WOW. I am in love LOL! So much to learn and remember from high school photography, but I am up for the challenge. What's another thing to do right?!

Sleeping kids on the way to the Ferry... they are great travelers.

We hadn't turned the lights on.. but he could still see there was gifts under the tree!!

Ben seeing what Santa left him..

Presents! Let's open them!

Daisy all ready to go for a ride in her sled! Snug as a bug.

The gingerbread man has seen better days..

Stella, with her Snuffleupagus eyes

Ben got a kazoo in his stocking. He figured it out right away!

Brrr! Lots of snow.. Christmas was so nice and sunny :)

It's my first Christmas!

Blue!

Yay! My first My Little Pony!

Ben isn't liking his picture taken lately (hence them mostly being of Daisy). This is the general expression I get LOL!

I surprised Mike with a snazzy iPod!

I still can't get over her blue eyes! They are even bluer with this camera!!!

Dazed and slightly overwhelmed by Christmas! But his eyes are such a gorgeous shade of brown.

All set for turkey...

Daisy had her first Christmas dinner!

Tis the Season..

2008-12-19T22:44:00.000-08:00

... to be crazy busy!

Wow. I didn't realize it had been that long since I posted! I post in my mind you see, thinking through my days "Oh ya, I should post this, post that" but then I never seem to get the pictures off of the camera. *sigh* But here I am!

We took the took the kids to see Santa last week. Ben was SO excited. He was vibrating, jumping ahead of line to sneak peeks, saying hi to Santa, asking not stop if it was his turn.. but well behaved!

Daisy did what she did best — be adorable! It was so much fun taking them.. Ben was in AWE, answering all his questions, nodding along and in a trance. Daisy was awesome, didn't play strange at all. Santa thanked me at least three times for bringing her and that she was a pleasure :) I guess any baby/child that doesn't cry is a welcome treat!

The tree got put up the first weekend of the month.. again, a very happy bouncy Ben. He went to bed very happy, that it was up at last. We had wanted to go to a tree farm nearby, but the weather was really cruddy and Daisy still had a cold. Didn't want to push our luck, so the artificial one came up from the crawl space. I think I say this every year, and it's been since Stella was a puppy, that I look forward to the day when I can use my ornaments. The one that aren't entirely pipe-cleaners, felt and plastic!

Ben's tree in the dining room..

Mike finishes work on Monday, then he starts school January 5th — last term! I know he is anxious to get it over with. No more school! We will be down to one vehicle during the 10 weeks, so it will be interesting coming up with things to do with the kids and not getting cabin fever. I sense lots of play dates at our house!

Ben's new thing the past week is not napping. And let me tell you, it SUCKS. He is so crabby. Every other day he either falls asleep at the dinner table, or on the couch. Tonight he didn't even eat a thing of dinner. Was in bed just after 6. Will be an early morning... again.

Yes, he is asleep at the table.

Daisy is getting tooth #8. May even be in this weekend.. she is so strong at standing it freaks me out. Is this early?!? She pats us on the back now when we cuddle, I swear she waved tonight. Playing peek a boo with her bib is a fun game at her high chair..

The kids have been "playing" together, Ben asks to go in Daisy's crib with her. He piles all her stuffies and they crawl and roll around LOL! There are no tears, so if we limit it to a few minutes, it's great!

This will probably be the last post before Santa comes, so everyone please have a happy and safe holiday! Merry Christmas!

~ The Merriman Family

My warm happy little sunshine after her morning nap!

Trying out her walker.. Santa might bring her one for Christmas though :)

Ben decided that he wanted to have a picnic with Daisy.

My wee man of mystery

I finally finished our photo wall in the living room!

Another first...

2008-12-02T09:43:00.000-08:00

Daisy has her first cold :( So far she is handling it like a trooper, but it's still a cold. It's got a bit of a loose cough, so using her sucky isn't an option because she kind of gags. We'll see how tonight goes.. I woke up a ton last night, worrying every time I heard her cough. Poor girlie. But she is amazing at everything else, no doubt this will be gone in a flash.

What else is new.. Ben is done swimming lessons for the year. They would like him to repeat this level again (Guppies 2) as he didn't complete a couple things that he should have, and that is because he just didn't focus as much — because he was too excited every class LOL! We won't be able to go back until the spring, but will try to get to the pool more on weekends.

The Christmas preparations are underway! We are planning on getting a real tree from the Christmas tree farm nearby on Saturday, but if the weather is cruddy, then I think we will just use the artificial one we own. No sense suffering in rainy cold weather. Hopefully I can get the rest of the house decorated this week! It's normally all up by now, but I have been too busy and a bit under the weather to find the energy. Shopping is nearly done, just a few odds and sods, and then will have to hours and hours wrapping LOL!

Hopefully this weekend we will take the kids to see Santa, too! Ben and I wrote him a letter and I am curious to see if he asks for the same three things that were mentioned in the letter: a dinoraur (dinosaur), a hamster and a hippo toy. Such a strange child! Somehow I don't think his list will always be this small & cheap!

Must go do one of my many things on my list today — Happy Tuesday!

Eight

2008-11-27T22:50:00.000-08:00

- THEN -

Shortly after she was born at 9:02am, 8 months ago tomorrow morning

- NOW -

Happy 8 months, Daisy-Roo!
You are our happy little miss sunshine and we love you SOOOOO much :)

Christmas!

2008-11-24T13:36:00.000-08:00

On Saturday we took the kids for Christmas pics.. they turned out so great :)

Daisy dances...

2008-11-22T23:49:00.000-08:00

Daisy just stared dancing.. usually when she is kneeling in front of something, she has kind of bounced. Today though she started to do this hilarious head side to side wiggle. SO funny. She rocks our world.

Oh, she is now crawling in the conventional method. I think she has learned it's much easier than the tummy infantry crawl she has been doing since 4 months!

Extra voice work by Ben.

Hair!

2008-11-20T19:33:00.000-08:00

Daisy finally has a tuft of hair on the top of her head that I can put a clippie into.. purely for looks!

Randoms of Daisy...

2008-11-20T19:30:00.002-08:00

Rarrrrrrr!

He really does like her!

2008-11-20T19:30:00.001-08:00

Snowman

2008-11-20T19:29:00.000-08:00

Ben made me a snowman!

Boo!

2008-11-10T19:28:00.000-08:00

Well, here is my super late Halloween post! Halloween morning, we met Eva and the kids at gymnastics, which turned out to be an absolute disaster.. Ben was so wired after 4 days of no play groups that he was pushing, shoving and generally not watching where he was going. So, tantrum and all, we left that place soon after we arrived.

But after lunch and a nap, he was right as rain. We went to the local mall for some indoor treating and had lots of fun. We only saw one other Buzz Lightyear!

Home for dinner, lit the pumpkins and time to suit up again! The rain held off for the most part, and we were planning on all going as a family, but Mike decided to stay home to hand out candy so Ben and I were solo. I didn't even get a picture of Daisy in her cute pink flower bunting bag!

Ben was SO funny, a total hit to the neighborhood. He kept his goggles on the whole time, lifting them up when he was at houses, said his goodbyes (after he tried repeatedly to enter peoples homes!) and then pushed them back down on this face. They were so handy though, didn't need a flashlight because they lit up! I seriously didn't recognize that boy from the one I saw earlier in the day. It was a GREAT evening, I had a blast just him and I. After a bag full of candy, we walked home for some cocoa and both were in bed before 8.

Next year will be even BETTER!!

51

2008-11-08T22:16:00.000-08:00

My mum would be 51 today. I woke up sad, but had to shrug it off and keep my chin up. I found this picture recently that I forgot I had...

Arr!

2008-11-04T21:29:00.000-08:00

For Ben's birthday, I got him a new Mally Bibs, toddler size. We LOVE these bibs! Ben had a whale one when he was a baby, but it got too small for him, so we upgraded to pirate sized one :D

I put pirate eye patches in the kids goody bags, and after his birthday he proudly wore it at dinner, along with his bib. I just had to take a picture and submit it to Nicole at Mally Bibs.

And he won the October contest! Now I have to pick out a bib.. too many to choose from!
http://mallybibs.com/node/932

Happy 7 months Daisy-Roo!

2008-10-28T14:07:00.000-07:00

Daisy-Roo, you are 7 months old today!

You are such an incredible girl already! So happy, calm and easy going. You love to smile, especially at your big brother. You are crawling around the house, not in the "typical" crawl, but in a method that works for you — pretty fast, too! You are saying "mama" and "dada" noises, and you seem to know the difference between us. When Daddy isn't here and you want something, you say "mamamamamama" and vice versa. What a clever girl!

Eating is something you love to do! You have liked all the foods I have made for you so far, which makes me so happy. I think we have weaned from nursing, but that is okay. I am glad we have made it this far along — and it makes me nervous anyhoo with all those teeth (six of them now!).

You are such a blessing, a complete joy to have in my life. Making this montage of pictures from when you were born brought back so many memories, how you came into the world in such a hurry! What a wonderful morning that was.

You are a love, and we can't get enough of you :) xoxo

Using your duck-tub for the first time!

(See my teeth!?)

My Grandma :)

2008-10-28T13:55:00.000-07:00

Most of you already know that my Grandma passed away Friday morning, but today would have been her birthday (I *think* she was turning 78) so I thought I would post a happy picture of her.

I took this when I was 11, at my Aunty Sarah's wedding. Not the greatest — gotta love the reflection off of the satin! But they are smiling!

Pumpkin Patch

2008-10-28T13:39:00.000-07:00

Sunday afternoon we finally headed out to the pumpkin patch. We didn't get to go last year, so it was Ben's first! He liked it, but only lasted about 30mins before he was acting up. Typical. Anything is usually only good for that amount of time before he goes koo-koo. *sigh* But, the time we were there was fun!

Picking "eggs".

Wow!

Pumpkin surfing.. no, he didn't fall. He did this intentionally
.

Daisy was in the carrier, and did lots of this...

Once Ben started acting up, Mike did lots of this...

The kid was zipping around so fast, I couldn't get a picture of his face! Nice toque though, eh?!?

Itty bitty pumpkins

Tractor time!

My turkey :)

Kung-fu Ben

2008-10-28T13:37:00.000-07:00

We had our "assessment" witn Sensei Ron for Karate on Friday — he loved Ben! He loves his energy, and thinks that he would be GREAT, but his attention span still wanders (you think!?) so we are going to wait 6 months.

It was so cute to see him do the little punches, bowing, etc. My future little black belt :)

He did it!

2008-10-23T23:19:00.000-07:00

Today was Ben's last day of swimming, and he successfully completed all the "to-do's" of the 10 week class! He loved it so much, his instructor was great, I just wish we could keep going, but the next class booked up too soon. Hopefully we (I) can find something else to get him active. Tomorrow afternoon I am taking him for an assessment for karate! Can't you just picture him in the little uniform? Hilarious. So we'll see how he does.. I like that they do it this way, rather than me sign him up, fork over all this cash and then he doesn't like it and can't focus.

And two more...

2008-10-22T20:11:00.000-07:00

Tonight I noticed that Daisy got another tooth (her other top front). Then I looked about 15 mins later — there was another one poking through beside the other front tooth!

Besides drooling a bit more the last couple days, I had no idea she was teething! This girl is amazing! Ben used to always have flaming red cheeks, not Daisy...

Her grin looks different already.. I will have to get a picture of her tomorrow.

Happy Birthday Ambrose & Maisie!

2008-10-21T12:08:00.001-07:00

Yesterday was Ambrose & Maisie's third birthday! Their mum Debbie threw a fun party on the weekend, and the kids had a blast (except when the singing took place — we won't talk about that though LOL!). They are the cutest twins ever!!

I made the cakes for them, which were a hit — and tasty! A lady bug for Maisie, and a robot for Ambrose. Yum!

This was pretty much the first time I got to dress Daisy up for a party! It was fun :D The lighting was so pretty behind her in the front room that I had to snap this photo..

The cakes!

Ambrose & his cake!

Maisie checking out her lady bug!

Finger lickin' good!

Gotta love BLACK icing! Love his new shirt though!!

My darling Daisy :) Little miss sunshine...

Hmm.

2008-10-20T13:59:00.000-07:00

This kid has an imagination. He came up with this get-up all on his own... Buzz goggles, ray gun and vampire teeth. He LOVES it. And the best part?! He can't talk with the teeth in so he is QUIET!! And yes, that is drool on his shirt LOL!

Designer Apron!

2008-10-20T13:42:00.000-07:00

My step-mom lived in China for a while earlier this year, and she picked me up this rad apron.

A Kamloops Thanksgiving...

2008-10-20T13:31:00.000-07:00

This Thanksgiving, we drove to Kamloops to see family, my Grandma being the most important. She is quite ill with cancer and we aren't sure if we will get to see her again, so it was imperative I see her (and she see us & the kids!). It was a good trip though. My sister and nephew stayed at our place and looked after the animals for us.

We stayed at my Auntie Sarah's, which was a lot of fun — my cousin's Katie (6) and Sophie (3) are such great kids. Ben LOVED playing with them, and they sure loved up Daisy!

We also did a quick detour to my Auntie Laurie's house in Hefley Creek.. I haven't seen her since Ben was about 6 months, and she was so wanting to meet Daisy! It was a short visit, but a great one :D Hi Auntie!

The kids travelled SO great on the trip, doing this mostly LOL!

Top of the Coquihalla.. toll booths no more! On the way back they were nearly gone, busily working all weekend to remove them. No turning back now!

We stopped in Merritt for some lunch, and picked Dairy Queen simply for the "Play Palace"! It was a hit with Ben, burning off some energy. Well worth it!

Daisy at my Auntie Sarah's.. happy happy happy!

Kamloops' hillsides are known for Mountain Sheep (at least they are to me, having grown up there). There is a specific section, near the Indian Reserve, on the way to my Grandparent's house that has a new 'wildlife fence' and signs posting for a couple km's that they are present. Apparently they have re-located a huge portion of them, but one you look hard enough you see a TON! This was on the way, and coming home we saw probably a hundred.. but of course my camera was in the back :(

Rub a dub dub, three turkey's in a tub! Sophie, Ben & Katie had a BLAST!

Look at that face! SO happy!

Daisy had her first sink-bath!

My wonderful Grandma, getting a pic with Ben. Daisy snuck in there, too :D

Grandpa, Grandma, Daisy and myself. I was so glad to go see them. They moved into their townhouse a couple years ago and I hadn't seen it yet. She was so proud to show it off to me!

I love you guys! xo

Random Facts About ME!

2008-10-15T00:09:00.000-07:00

I was tagged by Cathy!

Here are the rules: Link to the person who tagged you. Post the rules on your blog. Write six random things about yourself. Tag six people at the end of your post. Let each person know he or she has been tagged. Let the tagger know when your entry is up.

**Random Facts About Me**

1. I have moved a lot in my life, mostly as a kid because of my Dad's work. I lost count at 40...

2. I used to get chronic nosebleeds — almost daily, despite trying to correct it multiple times. And not once did I mess a pillowcase! Luckily I have grown out of this and it's not much of an issue.

3. I got my driver's license (L) at the age of 28!

4. I want to get a tattoo but I am too chicken :P Plus I have no idea what it would be of..

5. I make my own baby food for Daisy (and did so for Ben back in the day..)

6. If I weren't a graphic designer, I have no idea what I would be! The high-school-career thingy said I would be a police officer — ya, right.

I am tagging: Debbie, Leanna, Cynthia, Jillian, Cat, & Hillary! I am also tagging Tamara as a lucky number seven!

SO FUNNY!

2008-10-09T14:09:00.000-07:00

This morning was swimming, and our treat sometimes is to go to Starbucks (drive-thru) to get a hot cocoa.

We came home with our cocoa's and shared a date bar.

Ben took a big sip and he looked at me and said "You say how is it Ben".

Me: LOL.. okay "How is it Ben?!"
Ben: He smiled "Good!"
Ben: "No, you don't say 'delicious'"
Me: Okay. (trying to stay serious)
Ben: "Mmm! Delicious!"

*Funny thing is he calls it "dewishous". This kid CRACKS me up.

Numero three

2008-10-06T23:16:00.000-07:00

This evening Mike's mom, aka Granny, noticed that Daisy has cut tooth number three! Top one this time. She's been a gem, too! I didn't even know she was close to getting another!

She never ceases to amaze me, this girlie. So awesome.

Robot Party Ex-tra-va-ganza

2008-10-05T10:44:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was Ben's 3rd birthday. I can't believe he is THREE!!!

I made a robot themed party for him.. it was a lot of fun! He had such a great time with his friends & family. My sister couldn't make it because my nephew was sick (poor guy) .. hope to see them on Friday.

I came down with a terrible horrific migraine on Friday, so the original plans on decorating the cake fell through. It still looked great (tasted even better!) but I had higher hopes for it. Oh well!

Here is the run-down of the very loooooooong day!

Granny & Grampa gave him an awesome desk/art station — fully stocked! Here is the artist busy at work.. He is even wearing the yellow finger-painting bib apron that belonged to Mike and his brother as kids!! Cute!

Superman!

Gift opening — gotta love it when the kids get all glazed over,
mega-jealous and drooling over the toys LOL!

Daisy was content rolling around on the floor playing with the wrapping!

I think he liked the cape I made for him!

Uncle Trav got him a big-a** dump truck!

The cake (and below, Ben seeing it!!)

*Shirt thanks to Dana at Sweetbean Co!! Thanks Dana! He LOVED it!!

And because I didn't have ENOUGH things to do, I made

this for the kids.. snapped pics as they were leaving :D I think it was a hit!!

Above are brothers Cole & Mitchell.. Cole was hilarious. He kept saying
"I am a rob-ot" in a funny voice!

Ben & Uncle Travis

Mike & his brother Travis

Joshua & his Dad Cameron

Ben & his buddy Aiden!
Can you tell that Ben was just given his birthday cake?!

Mike & I.. late in the day. Dark outside, crappy hall light LOL!

My girlie Daisy & I!

Ben & Mommy.. he didn't want to let go of his lolli!

Pappa & Ben!

We gave him his big gift this morning, a Huffy three wheeled scooter.
Granny is suiting him up in his pads!

All ready to go! In Buzz PJ's of course LOL!

Good food (haw dawgs!), good friends, good fun, good day. But I am glad it is over!

Immunization time..

2008-10-02T12:29:00.000-07:00

Of course with turning 6 months, comes immunizations! They don't honestly bother me any more (then again I am not the one getting the needles!) but I know it's for the best, the crying doesn't last for long. None of the kids have ever had a reaction to them, which also makes me more comfortable with the whole ordeal.

Today was busy though.. Ben had swimming this morning 10 to 10:30 and then we had to hurry to get changed and run over to the appointment. Luckily in the same block, we made it with time to kill! But the two 10:30 appts didn't show, so we got in earlier! Woot!

Daisy is great though! She hardly cried for needle #1, then a bit more for the second. Ben stayed out in the main room playing with toys, oblivious :D Here are her stats:

Weight: 17lb 5.6 oz — gained 3 pounds since August
Length: 27 1/8" — grew over 2"
Head" 17" — 3/4" bigger

So, in weight she is in the 90th percentile, and length she is in the 95th percentile. These don't really mean much, but still makes me feel like I must be doing something right!!

Go Daisy go!

Swimming Lessons

2008-09-29T10:24:00.000-07:00

(he is the blur on the left here, making an escape to go on the slide!)

Ben has started swimming lessons on Tuesday and Thursday. Swim guppies level 1! He is such a little fish that he could have gone in the older class I think. It is going really well, has no fear of the water, but learning things as well. The hardest part so far has been leaving the pool in one piece (he always wants to stay longer). He loves dunking his head, laying on his back and kicking and holding his breath. It's fun to sit back and watch him with his instructor! It's a small class (just three other boys his age) but I think that is good.. he doesn't always like large groups of kids. Over stimulation!

Mike took him swimming on Saturday afternoon while Daisy and I went shopping. His instructor Ann was there. She came up to say hello but he didn't recognize her because she didn't have her swim cap on!

Six months :)

2008-09-29T10:05:00.000-07:00

Daisy-Roo (as we call her) turned 6 months yesterday. SIX MONTHS! Already!

She is such an amazing baby. No really! She is! Happy all the time, hardly ever crying or fussing, napping now during the day and still continuing to sleep through the night.

Her grins and giggles are infectious, making us smile from ear to ear. She just loves her big brother, and I think the feeling is mutual for Ben (but don't tell him :P). For the past month she has been trying to crawl in this funny commando-push-pull style. And let me tell you, she can MOVE! And fast! Who knows when it will happen, but I can already tell that nothing is safe LOL! Ben is learning that he has to put his toys away if he doesn't want her drooling all over them!

Feeding her is a breeze, she loves everything I have made for her so far. I am still nursing her during the day, except for the bottle she gets at lunch time and before bed. Going to just leave it up to her for now on how long she shows interest in nursing. I have already made it further than I did with Ben (he didn't stop biting and then just was not interested at all) so that makes me happy. It's our special time :D

Onesie from Sweetbean Baby Co! Thanks Dana!!

Ben was playing hide & seek with her LOL!

I bought this outfit when I was preggers,
hoping I was having a girl! So glad I bought it :)

I took a wee video of her last week, laughing at nothing in particular. Ben makes a small appearance, as do Mike's feet and a ukelele.

Photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Follow me!

2008-09-23T15:53:00.000-07:00

C'mon! As Ben would say "It's easy!" Under my links to the left, add yourself as a follower :D It's fun to see who is ready our blog!

We've been busy..

2008-09-19T13:31:00.000-07:00

.. going to the park and digging in the sand

.. chewing on our fingers

.. sliding and making weird faces

.. being king of the castle

.. getting our feet gobbled up, and loving it

.. having picnic lunch breaks after painting the railing
on the deck with Dad (note the clothing)

.. trying mum-mum's for the first time

.. being a crab cake

.. laughing and laughing and laughing!

.. cuddling with Daddy

.. picking the last of our sweet peas

.. getting loves from Granny

It's September already!?!

2008-09-14T22:11:00.000-07:00

I didn't realize it had been so long since I posted last. Geesh!

There are a lot of things to update on, of course mostly about the kids. I got strep throat this past week, which knocked me on my tushie (to put it nicely). Luckily Mike's work week wasn't as intense and he had some time to stay at home and help in the area of BEN! That boy is a wild one! I can't believe that one little child can be so equally entertaining, loving and happy and so frustrating, stubborn and rebellious! I have heard that the 3's aren't much better than 2's, but I have hope LOL!

Daisy is doing super! She is on pablum twice a day and have introduced pears, apples and bananas to her as well as squash. She has a wonderful appetite and is quite fun to have at the dinner/breakfast table with us. We have even ventured out for dinner (twice!) with her. Still nursing as well, which I am glad about. She knows it's a good thing and the teeth haven't been an issue – thank goodness! Tonight was the first time she sat solo, without my hand right there! She's chewing on her hands again, so will have to check for more teeth. Either that, or she wee bit of runny nose/congestion she is getting is from the starts of a cold. I hope for just teeth though!

This evening we had our family photo shoot with Jillian Kirby. Wow! I was fortunate enough to do an ad for her recently, and was excited to meet her in person.. had heard such wonderful things about her! And she is my new favourite gal :) Plus she takes some damn good pics of my kids! Here are some sneak peeks we got from her.. family ones to come! Ben was so comfortable with her, and she is so cool with kids. I love seeing him interact with other people. Such a ham!!

I love my kids :)

Strike a pose

2008-08-29T22:25:00.000-07:00

Smile. I need more smile.

I just don't understand this one, dahling.

Runway couture.

Beautiful. Show me love!

What we have been up to...

2008-08-29T22:17:00.000-07:00

... I started Daisy on rice cereal a couple weeks ago.. she loves it! The bib tastes not too bad, either!

... She got another tooth!

... we baked an angel food cake :D

... the kids have baths together nearly every night! Lots of fun — and lots of splashing!

... Ben is growing like a weed. 2.25" since March 4th. Ga-zooks! Yes, he tried to measure himself, hence the scribbles.

... getting cute shots of the kids sleeping at night. A favourite, the tushie in the air.

She's at it again!

2008-08-21T14:14:00.000-07:00

Last night Daisy cut another tooth, the other front bottom! I can't believe how fast she is getting teeth, just like her brother did!

My baby is growing!

Daisy's update

2008-08-10T21:53:00.000-07:00

Thursday marked Daisy's next round of immunizations.. and once again she was amazing! I was able to take her solo (thanks Mom for watching Ben!) and she dazzled everyone with her smiles and big blues :)

Her growth is right on track! Weight: 14lbs 11oz. Length: 25.25". Head size: 16.25". She hitting the charts with 90% for all! She cried for a few seconds when she got the needles (three this time) but not for long. The nurse was impressed, as was I! I thought the first time was a fluke, but she did equally as good as her first round.

We had a nice chat with the nurse, and discussed starting her on pablum probably at the end of the month. We'll see.. she is showing all the signs of being ready, but "they" like to wait until 6 months. Yesterday she grabbed Mom's sandwich out of her hands! Like I said.. we'll see.

Exersaucer fun!

2008-08-03T14:12:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we got out the exersaucer for Daisy, see how she would like it. As you can see, it was a hit! Next comes the jolly jumper!!

Ben at 4.5 months.

A tooth! A tooth!

2008-08-02T09:36:00.000-07:00

Daisy got her first tooth! She beat her brother by five days!

Nursing is going get interesting LOL!

I think this should be mandatory attire for fence painting...

2008-07-28T14:01:00.001-07:00

Looking good, Mr. Merriman.

Four months

2008-07-28T13:45:00.000-07:00

Happy 4 months to our smiley girl!

You are such a little ray of sunshine, staring constantly with your big blue eyes (so happy they are staying such a brilliant colour!). Your brother keeps you very entertained, the giggles are now coming out for him — which he is liking.

You are having successful day time naps (well, going on the second day) thanks to an afternoon bottle. Yesterday you ate a big bottle from Daddy and then peacefully slept for almost 3 hours! This is out of the norm for you. I was able to give you a bottle today, too, and you fell asleep all on your own! Good girl!

I think we will be shopping for a new booster seat/highchair for you soon, you are showing interest in food already, but we need to wait a *bit* more! Your eyes follow our spoons all the time!

Rolling over is a breeze for you now, easily going from back to tummy and vice versa. Your neck is so strong, you have no problem laying on your front looking around — at least you don't hate it as much! And you are already getting your knees under you and your little bum in the air. My goodness you are going to be a mover!

Party on, Daisy girl.

My Wordle

2008-07-22T22:13:00.000-07:00

Thanks Tam for sharing the Wordle site :D

I think it is hilarious how Ben's name is front and centre.. a lot like his personality, non?!?

My funny dude...

2008-07-16T22:53:00.000-07:00

Ben has been so hilariously entertaining lately that I am afraid I am going to forget some of the things he says to me! These are just a couple things he said today..

While eating pizza for dinner (trying Wild Mike's! Ben picked it out at the store, saying "Hi Guy!" to the character on the box LOL!), he took a bite and said "Hmm.. Not bad" and carried on eating a ton more. It is such a Mike thing to say.

Later on, while he was eating a freezie at the table, he got a bit too wiggly and nearly fell off of the chair, I managed to get an arm and a foot out to save him (I swear I do this daily and avoid near disasters! Cat like reflexes!). He sighed and said "Good catching, Mommy!".

We watched Mary Poppins this morning (his choice!) while I fed Daisy. Dick Van Dyke came on singing a song, and Ben got into it, wiggling away. He said to me "Dance your head, Mommy!" so I wiggled my head/shoulders, playing along. He laughed and then praised me in a super squealy voice saying "Good!". He then asked me to dance my feet, dance my arms, dance my toes, dance my tongue, all the while he is giggling and dancing away himself.

I know there is more, and will be so for many many years, and perhaps these aren't as funny reading, but if you know Ben, you can picture him doing these :)

My funny dude.

I came out from the bathroom the other morning, and I couldn't find Ben. Instantly I thought that he went outside (which he has been known to do in the past!) so I searched, nothing. I heard a giggle and he was hiding so carefully behind the table. PEEK A BOO!

3 months, 1 week and 4 days old...

2008-07-09T21:18:00.000-07:00

... and Daisy rolled over!

She has been working on it for a couple days, but this afternoon she officially did it all by herself while we were playing on a blanket outside! Mike's dad caught the sequence on his camera :D

I think she is trying to go for a record — or at least beat her brother. Ben was *just* shy of 4 months (two days before his birthday) when he rolled from his back to his tummy. We'll see if she does the tummy to back in the next bit!

Bye Bye Bucka

2008-07-09T20:57:00.000-07:00

This past Saturday, a dear family member passed away. Don was my mum's boyfriend, I had known him for nearly 15 years, and he was family. After my mum died, he was left heartbroken, and never really got over it.

Within a year of her passing he was diagnosed with lung cancer, which he courageously fought and it went into remission. He had such a wonderful attitude about it all, despite us all being so upset this happening to him. But then the cancer came back, this time in his brain. The doctors told him treatment might not help, but he did it anyways. On April 21st, he was given a letter saying he had 1 year to live. He got swelling and fluid on the brain, and when they tried to drain the fluid, they hit a small artery. His condition worsened and he was hospitalized, then transfered to Hospice care shortly there after. Once there, his spirit got a bit brighter, being in a much better environment, but it started to wear on him seeing the people around him dying.

We all went to see him on Tuesday, and I am so glad we did. I knew deep down after that visit that it wouldn't be too long before he died. He looked so tired and thin. Not a nice way to remember someone, but we saw him nonetheless. Ben was so sweet with him, sitting on his bed watching cartoons, sharing candies, giving big hugs.

I am glad he isn't in pain anymore, and he is with my mum. It was so hard losing my mum so suddenly, but in some ways this way was even more difficult, seeing the suffering and unhappiness.

We love you and miss you Bucka (my nephew couldn't say 'Grandpa' as a toddler, and this is what stuck :D ) and will remember you forever.

Allco Park

2008-07-05T14:20:00.000-07:00

Thursday was beautifully sunny here, and not as hot as the previous days, so the kids and I ventured to Allco Park down the road from us. A short drive, but worth it. It's right off of the river, with lots of trails and paths to explore.

We found a nice rocky shore that Ben could play in (and fall in!) while throwing rocks and sticks. Daisy quite enjoyed herself in the Kangaroo carrier :)

Three months

2008-07-05T13:05:00.000-07:00

Our little sunshine is three months already! As always, time is flying by but I am excited to see what she will be like at 6 months, 1 year and all the milestones after that! She is such a sweet baby, cooing and talking a ton, discovering her hands. She is drooling like mad, possibly starting to teeth like her brother. Maybe a tooth like he did at just over 4 months? Hmm.

Her eyes are still as blue as ever, and I really think they will be staying blue. That is so exciting to me... we don't have blue eyes (mine are brown, as is Ben's and Mike's are hazel/green) but my Grandpa and Mike's Grandad both had big blues.

She has been sleeping great still, but have had a few nights of waking up. It's really not like her, so it makes me wonder if the teething is beginning, but she is also fighting the swaddling. She gets her arm(s) out and then doesn't know what to do. I have a sleep cozy for her, but the one or two times I put her in it she didn't like it. But then again if she is not digging the swaddling anymore, then might as well get her into this seeing as she is already waking in the night! We'll see how that goes.

Daisy + Sophie

2008-07-05T12:59:00.000-07:00

Love at first sight.

Excuse while I suck on your face.

Summer fun

2008-06-22T21:55:00.000-07:00

Is it Sunday already?!? We had an awesome weekend.. Saturday, Mike did a trip to the dump and cut the lawns in the morning. I had a day planned with Kerry to go see the Sex & the City movie (FAB!) and some shopping afterwards. We had a blast of course, catching up, gabbing, shopping and whatnot. Pedi's would have made the day even more complete, but we were picking up Chicken Chalet for dinner, and I NEEDED to get home to feed Daisy. A near disaster LOL!

This morning Daisy woke up extra early, not like her at all, but she got unswaddled a bit and was not happy. Into bed with us, followed by Ben. Mike made yummy German pancakes (not sure if they are German, but that is what the recipe is called.. it's like a BIG Yorkshire pudding) for breakfast and we had coffee together while Ben played. He went for a bike ride with his friends and had a great time. They all came back laughing and reliving the ride.. such goofs :)

I ran some errands this afternoon, and scored a Slip 'N Slide for Ben at a deal I couldn't pass up. They are the best!! Trying to teach him what to do was a bit of a trick, but he had fun with Mike launching him & pushing him down it. I originally had him in his UV swim shirt and shorts, but they are too snug on him. Shirt off. Then the shorts. Nothing says summer like nude slip and sliding!!

Holy Bear Batman!

2008-06-21T23:00:00.000-07:00

Right after I put Daisy to bed tonight (9ish), I went into the kitchen to get a drink. I looked out the window to our driveway and look what I saw!!

Our back door was open, so I was worried the dogs would run outside.. I silently yelled for Mike to come upstairs LOL!

I grabbed the camera as fast as I could, snatched a bunch of photos, he got the phone to call our neighbors (they were bbq'ing earlier so we didn't want the kids to go running out or anything) as the bear sauntered through their driveway and by their front door. Not even 10 seconds after the bear walked through their hedges, the little girl opened their door. We ran to the door to tell them to get back inside! Luckily their mom was there to shoo them in. It sauntered across the road, checked out stuff as it went, and then "napped" in a back yard. The dude across the street was spying on it updating us. The other neighbor was on his roof looking over the fence at it. Apparently it is still there.. freaky. Mike called the wildlife conservation people, so we'll see what happens.

Talk about getting your heart rate up! Hopefully we don't have any incidences like last year, involving a mess of garbage. Our cans are now locked up in the shop!

I am thankful Mike was inside, as he was going to go out and work on his bike.. the shop door is always open when he does so. Phew!

Daisy is ready for the sun...

2008-06-19T13:20:00.001-07:00

R.I.P Sucky...

2008-06-17T22:39:00.000-07:00

I can successfully say that I did it!!! Ben no longer has a sucky! Well, he HAS it, but he doesn't use it, and only asks for it at bed time and not for his nap. He asks for it to be clipped to his shirt, but he takes it off soon after. We no longer get the "Gross. Broken. Different one. Daddy fix it!" requests while sobbing! It's only a matter of time before we throw it in the trash, but I will wait a while so he can accept that his sucky is broken.

We have been making a big deal out of him being a big boy not using a sucky now, and he agrees LOL! And he is totally fine with Daisy occasionally using one (not stealing it or anything!)

Bring on the toilet training!

Here is my big boy sleeping SUCKY FREE!!
LOL.. and I don't know why he piled his stuffies like that! Such a nut..

Happy girl!

2008-06-17T22:33:00.000-07:00

Daddy was giving her a bath for the first time..
she was so cute, staring up at him with her big eyes!

Brother & Sister

2008-06-11T23:11:00.000-07:00

One of the rare occasions that Ben wants to hold Daisy (and she is happy!), I seem to only have my cell phone handy to capture the moment.. they don't last long!

Ben and his Super Powers

2008-06-11T22:10:00.000-07:00

Thought I should do an update on Benjamin, seeing as he is a force to be reckoned with!

He has been a big brother for 10 weeks now, and he is wonderful. He likes helping out, gives Daisy toys when she is in her crib listening to her mobile, shares his Teddy and asks to hold/hug her more.

Potty training is coming along, still working on his telling us when he has to go, rather than us harping on him, but he is usually willing to go. And he doesn't care if he gets treats for peeing (a tactic we used in the beginning). Going poop gets a big reward though, a new Hot Wheels car. A good day when it's one less poopy diaper to change!!

Our latest challenge is trying to wean him of his beloved "sucky". It's a huge security for him, but I know he is old enough to give it up now and it's for the best. Even though he only has it at nap/bed time (usually), it's time to give it up. We wanted to do it sooner, but with a baby on the way we thought it would be best to wait. I wasn't ready nor prepared to do it cold turkey on him, so I did what I know other parents have done, and cut a wee hole in the top yesterday. I had no idea it would have affected him so much right away.. talk about breaking MY heart.

And of course he got a hold of it (he has just one) before bath, so needless to say bath time was a chore, and Mike was working overtime so I was washing him, against his will, and keeping Daisy happy in her bouncy chair at the same time. Oy vey! He put his sucky in his mouth, spat it out, said it was gross and he wanted a different one. He went to bed okay, got up more than normal, and kept begging for a different one. LOL.. kept trying to tell him over and over that he is a big boy, a big brother, sucky's are for babies like Daisy, and that it's broken so it has to go into the trash. Well, he thinks Daddy can fix it. Poor guy. I have had some nice cuddle time though, saying that he has his own super powers and doesn't need it.. he is really into Superman, Batman, etc and the Super Friends books. So, I made up his own powers — jumping (gumping!), dancing, making us laugh, being a super big brother.. just to name a few. Let's hope for less drama and sobbing tomorrow. My poor guy. No turning back now.

Height wise, he is growing like a weed. A whole inch an a half from March 4th to May 24th, bringing him to 38 1/4"! He is around 37 pounds (haven't weighed him recently) and is wearing size 3 and 4T clothes, size 9-10 shoes. He ain't no weakling!

He is counting more, we do the alphabet together, colours are hit and miss, but it's fun learning through his eyes and ears!

Lake Days

2008-06-11T21:39:00.001-07:00

This past weekend, Daisy went on her first Ferry ride, first visit at Granny and Grampa's and first parade at Lake Day's!

It was a lot of fun, and great to get away for a few days. We hadn't been to Mom and Dad's since like September (I think?!?). Ben was already there so we were just traveling with Daisy and the dogs, made awesome time and caught the 11am ferry, almost driving right on. Makes life with a 10 week old baby that much easier!

Daisy was entered into the Baby of the Lake contest, but of course the ONE time she decides to get into a deep sleep during the day, it was then! I couldn't wake her, and those big blues didn't make an appearance so she didn't win.. LOL.. which totally doesn't matter. I hope they do it better next year though, as they only had 2 age groups — 0 to 12 months, and 12 to 24 months. That is a HUGE age difference! So the baby that won in Daisy's group was much older, standing, smiling and laughing. She was cute though :)

We had a nice get together with other family members, too. Uncle Travis came for dinner on Friday, and to meet Daisy. On Saturday Dad made a yummy roast on the bbq, Mom made some delicious salads.. mmm! Mike's Nana & Grampa came, as well as his Granny and two sets of Aunts and Uncles — and throw in a Chihuahua, a Lhasa Apso (named Daisy!) and a Multi-poo, it was crazy there. Ben doesn't do well with crowds, kind of loses it after a while, so we were all happy when bedtime came!

All in all it was a great trip, both there and back. If I could guarantee a repeat of the kids behaving as well as they did, dogs being great and scoring with the Ferry's, then that would be awesome!

Daisy and her Great Granny

Happy girl!!

Mom, Mike and Ben

Daisy enjoying her first parade :)

It was getting loud (fire truck coming!) and Ben wasn't so sure about it.
Hold onto Daddy!

The dreaded immunizations

2008-06-04T13:53:00.001-07:00

Yesterday afternoon Daisy got her first round of immunizations — and she rocked!

First I weighed her and measured her.. my goodness she has grown! She is now 12lbs 7 oz and 23 3/4" long! She is in the 80th percentile for her weight, and 90th for her noggin size! Atta girl :D

Then I held her in my arms, walking around waiting for the nurse, and she fell fast asleep. The needles in her chunky legs just made her cry for about 20 seconds, then she went back to sleep! The nurse was so impressed, as was I.

Friday we are going on our first trip to the Island with her, off to Mom and Dad's. Ben is there right now for his wee vacation, so we will go visit for a few days and bring him home. It is Lake Days in the town, and Daisy will be entered into the Beautiful Baby Contest! Of course we are hoping for a win!!

One of Daisy's photo sessions...

2008-06-02T23:22:00.000-07:00

Happy two months Daisy!

2008-05-28T07:42:00.000-07:00

My sweet little Daisy is two months old today!

She is growing in leaps and bounds. Smiling all the time, giving giggles and being so laid back. She loves cuddles on shoulders, kicking and talking to her Rainforest friends on her mobile — what she would give to be able to grab those animals!

I am so very lucky to have a baby that sleeps through the night! Her bright happy eyes are so welcoming in the morning, no matter how early.. always waking up perky and cheerful! She kicks with excitement when she sees me, smiling so big that I can't believe it! Mike is loving that he can make her smile now, too. Warms your heart!

Bath time is now even more fun.. kicking up a storm and loving a deep warm tub. She stares right into your eyes, smirking away. When she is more stable, we will be able to put her in the bath ring and have a bath with her big brother — I know he is excited about that. He asks if she can bathe with him :D

Next Tuesday she gets her first set of shots.. will she cry a lot, a little or none at all?!?

We just had a week long visit with my Grandma and it was a lot of fun. She just fell in love with Daisy of course, and was constantly entertained by Ben. I know she will miss the kids. Next time she sees them they will have changed SO much!

(I caught her smiling in her sleep... hilarious!)

Tiny little pants...

2008-05-28T07:41:00.001-07:00

Superman + alligator boots = FUN!

2008-05-17T13:30:00.000-07:00

7 weeks!

2008-05-17T13:17:00.000-07:00

Daisy is a lot more entertaining now.. she smiles, coos and giggles quite often, those BIG eyes looking around, taking the world in! We are still working on her taking a bottle (hasn't been too successful lately, especially by mum!) but we will keep trying.

Her little cold passed fairly quickly, and she handled it like a champ, still sleeping through the night! She is a fabulous sleeper at night-time, as was her big brother :) A lovely trait to pass on! We are still working on getting consistent naps during the day and learning her routine. And getting her to nap in her crib.. that is hit or miss most days.

She is getting so big, already wearing her 3-6 month clothes. Got to measure her length, see how much she has grown. Her neck is very strong, and she doesn't seem to mind tummy time (yet!).

Ben is doing great with her, giving her kisses before bed and talks about her. Last night he wanted her in his bath, so we sat her on his lap for a bit and he thought it was quite neat — for a minute at least! Daisy looked at me with fear in her eyes LOL!

Big brother, little sister

2008-05-13T12:19:00.001-07:00

I found these adorable t-shirt/onesie sets at a fun site. So cute.. and tempting.

Mother's Day..

2008-05-12T08:52:00.000-07:00

I remember calling it "Monster Day" to my mum, giving her a handful of wet lilacs on her big pregnant belly!

This Mother's Day was nice.. Mike & Ben got me lovely new Corelle dishes, he finished the pot lights and installed an awesome new Moen kitchen faucet with a filter! The kitchen is slowly getting finished..

The new dishes.. colours will match the kitchen when it's done!

Am in LOVE with our new faucet. Our old was C-R-A-P!

I had some errands to do yesterday, so while Ben napped and Daisy fed, I went on my way. We have been thinking about starting Daisy on a formula bottle once a day (or so) and thought now was the time. Mike made one up while I was out, it took me way longer than expected, and she drank 90ml's for him! And no spit-up! Yay for Daisy :) She didn't get the hang of it right away, gagged a bit in the beginning, but then realized that if she sucked on it she got food LOL! Atta girl! I tried to give her a bit later on, but she either wasn't hungry or I was just confusing her so it was a no go. Will try another time.

Ben and Mike had a great weekend together, too. He just loves being outside with Daddy, whatever he is doing.. He played on his slide and whatnot while Mike mowed and pulled weeds. Part of the afternoon was nice enough that I could nurse her outside (until the cool wind came). Mike also bbq'd a yummy beer can chicken last night and Kerry & Trevor came over to share the feast. It was gooooooood. Complete with brown eyed susan cookies made by my wonderful hubbie and homemade chocolate chip muffins (Thanks K!), it was de-lish!

Achoo!

2008-05-08T13:23:00.001-07:00

Butterball

2008-05-08T09:35:00.001-07:00

Yesterday I took Daisy to the Public Health Nurse to get her weighed, etc. She is 11 pounds! In the 75th percentile for her weight, she is one healthy little girl.

Unfortunately I think she is fighting a bit of a cold right now. She has a very sensitive gag reflex (which we already found out the hard way!) and she seems to have some phlegm/mucus that is making her sick. So messy. More laundry..

Here are some updated pics of the chickie though. Ben is at his Granny and Grampa's, so it's much quieter here without him :(

Mike got a new job! He started this week, and seems to be really liking it. He has a company van (which of course I love because now I have a vehicle during the day! Bonus!) and a lot more responsibility. It is going to be great experience for him, and great for all of us. Yay Mike!

Daisy is one month!

2008-04-29T11:19:00.000-07:00

And how fast the month has gone by! Daisy has changed SO much the past weeks.. she is cooing now and smiling at me on a regular basis (the best feeling ever!). Really big smiles show two adorable dimples — I wonder if they will stay??

I am taking her to get weighed next week, find out how much my chunky monkey weighs now. She is out of her newborn clothes and wearing mostly 3 month and 3 to 6 month clothes. Sleeping is still pretty good with her, she wakes up just once in the night. Gotta work on more naps in her crib during the day, though.

We think Ben has accepted the fact that she is here to stay! He is pretty good with her. Every once in a while he surprises us with asking to hold her, or give her a kiss. It's really sweet. Just gotta watch the unpredictable two and a half year old boy — he's got quite an arm on him!

Our update...

2008-04-15T13:19:00.001-07:00

Life with two kids is.... interesting! I should re-phrase that. MY life during the day (solo!) is interesting. Trying to keep Ben happy & occupied is a challenge, and trying to not have the TV or a movie on all the time. So far so good. We have managed to get out for some walks, and yesterday we baked oatmeal raisin cookies - all with Daisy in the sling. Was a challenge but we did it, and I think Ben had fun. Daisy slept after dinner so Ben and I were able to spend some outside time together. It was great. Swinging like we used to (before my big pregger belly!), chasing each other and LAUGHING! I love his laugh :)

Ben is going through a big growth spurt... his pants are getting short on him LOL! I measured him last night and he has grown half an inch since March 4th!

Brother & Sister :)

2008-04-15T13:16:00.000-07:00

I heart Daisy

2008-04-15T13:09:00.000-07:00

Daisy's Blue Steel

2008-04-15T13:06:00.000-07:00

Life with Daisy...

2008-04-09T13:48:00.000-07:00

Things are great!

Daisy is such a wonderful addition to our family. Today is my first whole day alone with the kids as the in-laws left this morning. We actually got out for a walk! And Daisy didn't cry! And Ben listened! Both the kids are napping right now (for almost two hours!) and it has been nice to get some "me" time.. eat lunch, pay some bills, catch up on my blogs!

Hopefully we have more good days than bad, but I know Ben likes to test our patience and see what he can get away with. The story of a two year old! Could be a lot worse though... Daisy is sleeping most of the night (6-7 hours straight usually) and being generally very easy going. Ben is showing more interest in her, kissing herand saying "hi!". Think he realizes she is here to stay?!

We also had our first check-up on Monday. Daisy is 8lbs 13oz (up 3oz from her birth weight and 10oz more than when we left the hospital) and doing wonderful! Dr. H said she is perfect! And yesterday she lost her belly button stub. Yay!

Mike's Granny (Daisy's GG) came for a visit last week.
This is her 8th Great-Grandchild — 4 boys and now 4 girls!

She made Daisy a pink ceramic boot with her birth date and name on it..

Big brother Ben having quiet time and reading his new favourite book..
my old Richard Scarry's Cars and Trucks and Things That Go!

Little miss pink.. she sure is changing!

... and getting chubby!

The Birth of Daisy Rayne!

2008-04-04T10:02:00.000-07:00

Mike took this picture 13 hours before Daisy was born!

My labour began early Friday morning, March 28th at 4am. The night before I was feeling "off", lots of cramping, nausea and just not right. I thought partly that it would be nerves as I was to be induced Friday morning at 8am. This little one was 6 days late and we were ready to meet him/her!

I wasn't sleeping well, lots of butterflies, but at 4am I started to get contractions about 15-20 mins apart. At around 5:15 or so, I woke Mike up telling him I was having pains. By this time they were 10 mins apart and lasting for about 20 to 30 seconds. I decided I better get ready as we might be going to the hospital sooner than expected!

Mike's parents were going to be staying home to watch Ben, and Mom was up and ready to go at 6am... only to find me having contractions in the kitchen, trying to get ready. Mike was frantically eating a bowl of cereal and wishing his coffee was done sooner! Mom was joking that we might be back in time for lunch if things keep going this fast! As soon as he was done, we were ready to head out the door, Ben waving at us like a good boy and making me super emotional. I wasn't even in the truck and I was a blubbering idiot in the driveway missing him already!

The drive to the hospital (10 mins away) was the longest drive of my life. I think I had 3 contractions on the way. Once we got there, we walked to the elevator, only to have it not work as soon as the doors open. Great. I get to take the stairs, stopping to have contractions. There was too big of a line-up of people at the registration desk so I said screw it and we just went up the the maternity ward (taking the stairs again!) and they admitted me right away. They couldn't find my file — they were VERY busy from a rush of deliveries the night before — and put me in an exam room while Mike did the paperwork. Poor guy was running around frantically, but remaining so calm and cool the whole time. They checked me (once they found out who I was and that I was supposed to be induced at 8am!) and I was 5cm. It was just after 7am at this point. Good thing I was in labour on my own because they wouldn't have been able to induce me that day because they were so busy!

A short while later they put me in a delivery room. I was asked about the option of an epidural, and I thought about it. I decided on getting what they referred to as a mini-epidural, so I wasn't completely numb. Turns out the anesthesiologist was in an emergency c-section so I was out of luck. I got my gas though.. thank goodness! Mike put on my CD that Kerry made for me.. better! The contractions were coming so fast and strong, like every 30 seconds, I couldn't believe it. Dr L. came in at about 8:45 and checked me again, my water breaking in the process, and he said I was still about 5cm.

I was in the middle of a contraction (that just seemed to get worse instead of better!) when all of a sudden I was pushing and the rest of my waters gushed! I remember saying that I couldn't help it! My nurse, Helene, checked me and sure enough, her head was there! I couldn't believe it! In my mind I thought I had like an hour of pushing because that is what I had to do with Ben! I heard Mike say that he could see the head, and I was so focused on pushing and getting it out. The cord was around her neck, which Mike got to cut, then one or two more pushes and she was out! After 7 or 8 mins total of pushing, at 9:02am, my little Daisy Rayne was born! It was such an emotional experience. I didn't know if we had a boy or a girl at this point. I asked what it was and Mike told me it was a girl. We both cried and cried and then Daisy was put on my chest. It was wonderful! She was placed in the bed beside me, so I got to see her get checked out & measured while they took care of me. I missed this whole experience with Ben because I hemorrhaged so bad and he was at the other end of the room.

About 20 mins or so after she was born, I got to nurse her. Such a better experience this time around. Fast, but awesome. Mike and I were in shock all day at how fast it all went and that we were both healthy. He has nicknamed me turbo LOL! And Daisy was born to Walnut Tree by Keen! Fab! We decided to stay one night in the hospital, to make sure my bleeding was under control. Mike's mom came to meet her new granddaughter when Ben was napping, then they all came back later in the afternoon. Ben was adorable with her, but I think he was more curious at all the buttons, cords and machines in the room! Cat came by with her two boys and a most delicious Subway sandwich for me! After visiting hours, friends Kerry and Trevor snuck in to meet Daisy.. it was great seeing our friends :D

She is a wonderful little girl. We love you Daisy! xo

Daisy Rayne, born March 28th 2008 at 9:02am

Spider-Ben!

2008-04-02T14:48:00.000-07:00

More Daisy

2008-04-02T09:49:00.001-07:00

We are settling in nicely at home with Daisy — she is a WONDERFUL addition to our family! She is a happy girl, doesn't cry very much at all, and sure does love to eat! I think we are pretty lucky with her sleeping as well.. nighttime has been stretches of 3-4 hours between feeds. Yay! We are in awe at how much she has changed already in just 5 days!

Some of these shots are a bit blurry. She was moving so fast I didn't have time to focus but I didn't want to miss them!

She's here!

2008-03-29T14:44:00.001-07:00

Daisy Rayne

Born March 28th, 2008 at 9:02 am
8 pounds 10.3 ounces / 21.5 inches

Ben at the Park

2008-03-23T10:56:00.003-07:00

Yesterday morning Mom and I took Ben to the park.. it was a blast! He played well with other kids (always a good thing!), ran around a ton and we even left without too much of a fuss!

And yes, if he looks different, it's because Mike gave him his first piggy-shave hair cut that morning. I wanted to get pictures of it, but I was too busy helping hold hands out of the way, head still, wiping tears, etc. I am still not used to it!

As you can see, this new "cheese" face is a hit!

Cheese!

2008-03-20T13:05:00.000-07:00

March update..

2008-03-06T08:56:00.000-08:00

It's been so busy around here I haven't even taken a picture of ANYTHING in nearly two weeks. Bad mom.

Ben is doing great... he has grown almost an inch since Thanksgiving and weighs 35 pounds! My little tank! Talking up a storm, copying what we say.. it's hilarious. He loves Superman lately (Easter bunny is on the lookout for a Superman action figure), reading, his tool box, riding his bike (is actually steering and using the pedals more!) and of course, Curious George. Or "MONKEY!". He is a monkey. Luckily he is sleeping better.. no more getting up in the night for no reason, and waking at the wee wee hours. Phew. Let's hope this stays.

Today is his last day of daycare (and my last day of work!) and I am sad about that. I know he will miss them terribly there. He has changed and grown so much since starting there in June/July. I hope we can keep in touch, and possibly get together for a play date every once in a while. He is such an active little boy I am going to have my hands full!

On Sunday Mike and I celebrated our 6th wedding anniversary! Wooot! My sister and nephew came out for a visit & dinner, and she "babysat" Ben once he was in bed so we could go to a movie. A date! What fun! It was nice to get out.. seats are not so comfy for a very pregnant lady, but still a treat. Even more of a treat that we got to use free passes!

Mike has been busy working on the kitchen.. re-wiring, adding plugs, adding 6 wonderful pot lights.. ahhhh. It's going to be fab when done. Soon. It's hard when the only time he gets to work on it is after Ben goes to bed. Otherwise I can't keep Ben away from him.. he constantly says "Doin'?" in the cutest little voice you can't help by snicker EVERY time! He sure loves his Daddy.

This Saturday, Mike's parents are coming over to wait for the baby to arrive! It was going to be Wednesday, but I haven't been feeling so great, in some pain and worry that it's going to be before then. So they are putting us all at ease and coming a few days earlier. Will be a wonderful thing to have help with Ben, too. And that means we can start work on his swingset! Well, I can do a great job of supervising from the sidelines!

In the meantime I am trying to take it easy, finish last minute things for the baby/nursery (still waiting to hang the drapes/blind in there or I would share pics!) and have packed the bags! Can't wait to meet this little trickster!

Bouncy Castle Fun

2008-02-25T08:54:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I took Ben to a birthday party for Amy's 1st Birthday. It was a lot of fun (and chaotic at the same time!). Mike needed the opportunity to do some wiring in the kitchen — Ben free! — so we took the ferry over to Langley and hung out. Didn't stay for the gift opening or cake though.. that just spells trouble for a 2 year old with no nap (and a very pregnant solo parent!)

It was Ben's first Bouncy Castle experience and was a BIG hit! I didn't go inside with him so the pics are mostly through the mesh.

Here are some kitchen reno shots, too :D SOON we will have pot lights. Lots and lots of glorious lighting! And lots of outlets!

Ben's artwork!

2008-02-10T13:40:00.000-08:00

One thing that I LOVE about Ben going to daycare, is on Thursday's they go to a more pre-school style playgroup and he does crafts. Haven't quite gotten him interested in doing crafts at home yet, but we're trying!

These are the lastest presents I have gotten over the last two weeks. I just know I will end up keeping everything he makes for me!

An update at last!

2008-02-10T12:45:00.000-08:00

It's been a busy start of the year, and yet I can't think of what we have done! A lot of it has been stuff around the house, getting the nursery ready and preparing for the baby, and overall just doing day to day things!

Ben is doing great.. growing like mad and talking up a storm. It's hilarious to have him try to talk sentences, when some if it still comes out as gibberish. He tries though! Daycare is going well for him, he really likes it. His last day is going to be March 7th, which I am sad about but if I am not working we can't afford to send him. Hopefully I am able to entertain him enough so he (and myself!) doesn't go stir crazy! Until then we just wait for the baby's arrival!

We have been getting the baby's things out slowly but surely, hoping it will make for an easier transition once his brother or sister arrives. It will be an adjustment either way.

Small renovations have started around the house. As I type, Mike is upstairs in the kitchen ripping down tile, removing drywall (and laughing at the way a lot of it was constructed! Pictures to come later!), making a pass through from the kitchen to the living room and installing more outlets.. something we REALLY need in there! Hopefully we can get a new hood fan/microwave combo soon for above the stove so we can gain some needed counter space. So nice having a handy hubby!

Granny and Grampa will be coming sometime early March, in preparation of the baby. Ben is getting an early birthday present of a swing set! That will be the big backyard project while we wait.. so exciting! Since it's not really going to be used in October, the timing is going to be great with having it in the back yard for when I am home alone with two little ones. My arms will be mega toned from pushing him on the swings! I got a sling for the baby though, so I intend to use it a lot this summer and be able to be out there with him. He LOVES swings. Getting him in the house might be tricky :D

Captain Ginchy

Story time with Grampa

Safari hat from Uncle Trav and Aunty Nat

Suiting up in the duck suit to go splash around.. thanks Uncle Trav & Aunty Nat!

Snack time in Granny & Grampa's trailer.. fun!

Cheese!

Ben finally got to wear his snow pants.. I asked if I could take a picture
of him, so he went and got "his" camera to take a picture of me!

Our big snowfall from last week..

Christmas time..

2008-01-06T11:16:00.000-08:00

We had a wonderful Christmas in our "new" house. Mike's parents and Granny came over from the Island, and Ben was sure the star! It was by far the best one we have had, and know that next year will be even better! We were all surprised at how well he did, no meltdowns or fits, helped each of us open gifts, took them to people. It was sure cute..

Christmas Eve dinner

The tree and stockings after Santa came!

Ben and Daddy tuckered out after a morning of opening, assembling and playing :)

Our mega 23 1/4 lb. turkey, given to us by a family friend
who raises them. The BEST one I have ever had. YUM.

While we were making dinner, Ben decided that he would go to the table and help himself with the cranberry sauce... concentrating using a knife and fork. Funny boy.

And finally, all sitting down to eat our feast!

Ho ho ho!

2007-12-09T12:31:00.000-08:00

So we took Ben to see Santa on Friday night at the local mall. I have been trying to teach him bits about Santa, he has a book or two and he can say "Santa"! I even got him saying "Ho ho ho!". Well, more like "Ho ho!". Either way it is funny :D

He did not cry with him this year, thankfully. They had a play area there for the kids to keep busy while we waited in line (there were only three kids ahead of us). What I didn't like is that I had to pick my photo package before the picture was taken! This was not the by-donation type Santa, and then I find out that they just print the pictures there, so they will fade over time. Bah-humbug! So I got this $15 package, and Ben won't sit on his lap. Oh well, no screaming fits. I tell you though, if they had candy canes he would have sat! A stuffed bunny just doesn't cut it with a 2 year old boy! Needless to say Mom got to sit in the picture.. had to get my money's worth!

When he was at Mom and Dad's last week he saw Santa there and all was well because of a candy cane! It's not blood in his mouth :D Santa is a bit crazed looking, but they are humorous pictures!

Here are his two other past Santa pictures. His first picture is by far my favourite! That Santa was the best.. perfect!

It's Christmas time!

2007-12-05T08:59:00.000-08:00

When Ben was away at Mom and Dad's, we figured it would be a good opportunity to pull out all the Christmas decorations from the crawlspace and set some of them up. We left the big tree to be decorated, hoping we could do it all together, but didn't really work out that way since we all got sick with the flu! It was done in small doses! The last few years we have set up a little tree (which I decorated for Ben for the front window!) and I realize that I don't really have many non-breakable ornaments!

It snowed a lot on Saturday/Sunday, but then the rain came and washed it all away. Mike built Ben a snowman! Lola didn't like it so much and kept barking at it.. silly dog. We didn't get a change to go play out in it this time, because he had a bad couch and whatnot, so hopefully it'll snow again and we can use his snow pants and the sled!

Ben's tree!

The wreath I made!

Our mantle.. we are having Christmas at our house this year. Mom and Dad are bringing Mike's Granny, too! Will be lots of fun :D

The big fake tree lacking in decorations! But Mike did a fab job putting the lights on! Note the reindeer in the bottom right corner... it "walks" and sings a song and Ben HATES it! He kicks it repeatedly and runs away!

Sleeping Ben part deux

2007-12-05T08:55:00.000-08:00

Who can resist a sleeping baby? Well, he's not really a baby anymore but he is as sweet as one! He was getting over the flu (hence the towel on his bed as a potential easy clean-up measure!) and I was so relieved that he was sleeping soundly, buried in his blankets!..

Sleeping Ben..

2007-11-15T12:02:00.001-08:00

I love checking on Ben before we go to bed.. he looks so innocent and calm! And yes, all those stuffed animals (he calls them buddies!) are mandatory. There are more under the covers with him.

Fun with a box

2007-11-15T11:59:00.000-08:00

Our long weekend...

2007-11-15T11:51:00.000-08:00

Friday was ultrasound day, so Mike took the day off. That was nice.. we got to go for lunch, get a few things from the mall, take it easy. He went to Chiro that afternoon, we got Ben and had dinner. Saturday morning he made us breakfast (I got to sleep in a bit!), Ben needed an early nap so Mike and I got busy outside: I raked the leaves in the back yard, he mowed it and tidied. Then he put up our new LED Christmas lights and I did some more gardening until Ben got up.

It is so exciting to be decorating for Christmas in our OWN house! I can't wait to put up the tree, start baking and just enjoy it all. Start our traditions!

Sunday was grocery shopping. It started to get quite windy and you could tell that a storm was coming. We came home and after Ben went to bed Mike said "You know, we aren't really prepared if the power goes out!". So I dug out the candles, then Ben got up and BAM! The power went out! No sooner did I put the candles on the counter did it go out.. that was freaky. Ben got a candlelit diaper change and I had to lay with him to get him to fall asleep. It weirded him out a bit.. no nightlight or music. Plus the bushes were scratching on the house (which Mike pruned back the next day — thanks Daddy!). The power came on a bit during the night, but was out in total for 25 mins shy of 24 hours. That was a LONG 24 hours! I am SO thankful we bought a house with a wood stove — and to have married a guy that a) chops wood and b) knows how to start a fire!

So that was our weekend. Ben was sure happy that the power came back on! He kept trying to blow out the candles during dinner LOL!

The new lid

2007-11-15T11:48:00.001-08:00

Ben was WAY overdue for a haircut. But, we finally got it done on Saturday. Ta-da! Ya, he doesn't look too impressed in the after pic, but he was busy watching 2 kids scrap it out.

Happy 50th

2007-11-08T10:26:00.000-08:00

Today is my Mum's birthday. She would be 50. I am trying to keep busy today, not think about it as it is innevitable that I always get upset. When she died, I was 5.5 months pregnant with Ben. Now it is her "big" birthday, and I am 5 months pregnant with the new little one. Crazy.

She was 21 in this picture, and I was just a few months old.
Love you Mum xoxo

Halloween...

2007-11-01T10:23:00.000-07:00

Wasn't too exciting this year. I think part of the problem is the last 2 houses we have lived in, we never got any trick or treaters. I mean NONE! Well, maybe the 2 neighbor kids and my nephew and that was it!

I had heard that a lot come to our neck of the woods (being by an elementary school and a high school you would think so) but our street doesn't have lights. So, that just brings out the punks and hoodlums once it is really dark.

Ben actually wore his costume at daycare! She took them to the local mall for trick or treating.. brave lady! I laughed so hard when I saw him.. the last time he wore it (about a month ago as a test drive that didn't go so well!) it was not this snug on him! So funny.. had tears.

Raced home, fed Ben. Made our dinner, ate and then asked Ben if he wanted to go out again in his costume. BOOM! At the door wanting his shoes on. So changed him, costumed him up and Mike took him out while I was on candy duty and cleaned the kitchen. Woot! What fun. I thought it would be best for him to take him out as he can handle him a bit better when out and about... that kid is getting HEAVY!

We didn't get a pumpkin this year, which sucked big time. Everytime when we were going to go to the pumpkin patch, it rained. Or Mike had to work. Then we would go to the store and they would be out, or it was too late and had to get home. Mom gave Ben a blow up ghost thing for the yard, and that kicked the bucket Halloween night! Of course! There was smoke coming from it.. not good!! Got pictures of it before though..

All in all we got about 70 kids though. I think. Haven't counted how many goodie bags are left. I had to turn the lights off at 8 as Ben would NOT sleep when kids came to the door and he was TIRED and cranky. They had pretty much finished in our area though.

Our house, pumpkin-less *sniff*

Ben got glow in the dark teeth in a goody bag from a birthday party. And LOVES them!
No, they were not part of the lead-paint-recall. I checked!

Here is froggy boy at the mall.

Eating a sucker, getting daddy's hair all sticky.

Bye! Going to get more candy!

Ben looks more like me!

2007-10-31T10:34:00.000-07:00

Mmmm... marshmallow pumpkin.

2007-10-10T22:14:00.000-07:00

A very much enjoyed treat from Granny :D

Ben's birthday weekend

2007-10-10T22:08:00.001-07:00

Here are some shots of Ben over the weekend..

Mommy and Daddy got him a tricycle!

Get off of my bike!

The birthday cake I made for the party... mmmm banana monkey cake.

I got Ben a Mr. Potato Head, and the glasses were a HIT!

Ben's first experience with Playdoh!

Happy Thanksgiving :)

2007-10-08T13:55:00.001-07:00

Happy 2nd Birthday, Benjamin!

2007-10-04T09:14:00.000-07:00

You are TWO! Such a free spirit, charming little monster! The last year you have changed so very much it is hard to believe.

You have such a wonderful personality, full of spunk! A tough cookie, you have no fear playing with the big kids (or dogs!). You are talking so much more, copying what we say and making us laugh so much in the meantime!

I just know you will be a WONDERFUL big brother next year. We look forward to seeing you change even more!

Happy birthday our darling beautiful boy! xoxo

Make photo slide shows at www.OneTrueMedia.com

5 days..

2007-09-29T11:02:00.000-07:00

FIVE days until Ben's second birthday! Can't believe it!

He is sure keeping us busy, and sleeping terribly! Sometimes up more than 2/3 times a night, and then still waking up super early (like 4:30 or 5am!). The last couple nights have been better, has gone to sleep on his own, as opposed to us having to lay with him after he gets up repeatedly. Just early early mornings. Hope he gets out of this before the baby is born.

I think a lot of it has to do with him getting his final molars. I was finally brave enough to stick my fingers back there and feel, and there are huge bumps on the bottom. That would explain the crankiness, runny nose, the fact that everything goes in his mouth! Can't wait for the teething to be done with him, then we will tackle it again ;D

Next weekend we are having a little family party for him, seeing as it is Thanksgiving weekend. Our first Thanksgiving in our new home! Will be nice.. look forward to the wonderful smells of turkey and pumpkin pie!!

What does Blogging mean to me?

2007-09-16T10:38:00.000-07:00

1) Name the person, with link, who tagged you.
2) Complete the questionnaire without changing the questions.
3) Tag other people. This tag is a questionnaire to be answered on the topic "What does blogging mean to me?" I was tagged by my wonderful friend Cathy :D

QUESTION 1: Are you happy/satisfied with your blog, with its content and look?
The purpose of my blog is to simply share with friends and family a wee bit of our day to day lives, especially the ones we don't see very often. It's like an online diary/baby book of Ben's life, too!

Appearance: It's simple. I like it that way. Have spent more time tweaking my pregger blog!

Content: Might be boring to some people, but to heck with them! It's just me getting the thoughts out of my head! Not meant to be amazingly insightful or mind blowing.. but hey, if I amaze someone then great!

QUESTION 2: Does your family know about your blog?
Yep, quite a few of our friends and family know about it and I think check in every now and again!

QUESTION 3: Do you feel embarrassed to let your friends know about your blog or do you just consider it I private thing?
Not at all! I love blogging, just wish I had more time to update more often.. it's not totally private. It is just a way to share pics and stories of my funny monkey and our day to day crazy life!

QUESTION 4: Did your blog cause positive change in your thoughts?
I usually think about what I am going to write, long before I write it. So for the most part that is true.

QUESTION 5: Do you only open the blogs of those who comment to your blog or do you love to go and discover more by yourself?
I love finding other blogs, bookmark them and see what they are doing. Especially the ones with kids.. seeing them grow is amazing! Then look at their links, etc. It's a lot of fun. Have met a lot of new friends this way!!

QUESTION 6: What does your visitor counter mean to you? Do you care about put it in your blog?
I have a counter, but could care less about it. Not a contest!

QUESTION 7: Did you try to imagine your fellow bloggers and give them real pictures?
Seeing pictures/videos is the best! I think that is one of my favourite parts of blogging.. sharing!

QUESTION 8: Do you think there is a real benefit to blogging?
100% yes. It's a great way for support, asking lots of questions about parenting, etc. Getting stuff off of your chest so you don't feel like you are going bonkers! It's been a lifesaver for me!

QUESTION 9: Do you think that bloggers society is isolated from the real world or interacts with events?
I'd like to think not! We all have lives (even if they aren't exciting!), that keeps us doing lots of other things. As Cathy put it, it's a balancing act!

QUESTION 10: Does criticism annoy you or do you feel it's a normal thing?
Haven't had any bad criticism through my blog, thankfully. But yes, it annoys me a bit! Depends on the situation of course. But that is why we have the power to DELETE nasty comments if it comes down to it!

QUESTION 11: Do you fear some political blogs and avoid them?
I avoid them like the plague! I like just reading friends blogs and other simple ones. Can't be bothered to get my head wrapped around mumbo-jumbo online..

QUESTION 12: Did you get shocked by the arrest of some bloggers?
Arrest? Where have I been?!

QUESTION 13: Did you think what would happen to your blog after you died?
I dunno... haven't ever thought about that! I hope that blogging in general is around for quite a while. Not necessarily mine, but would be nice if it was kept up somehow in the family!

QUESTION 14: What do you like to hear? What's the song you might like to put in a link, in your blog?
I love hearing Ben laugh so hard he is gasping for air. A nice deep down belly laugh.. the best. Hearing him play with his daddy. As far as a song, I like songs that make Ben dance — he has some great moves! Low Rider by War... he loves that.

Tag You're It! Here are my three tags of choice. . .

1. Kerry kerry bo berry. My lovely friend I have known for 10 years!! Happy Anniversary LOL!!

2. Debs! An awesome chick.. can't wait until she is closer! I know she is super busy with the twins and moving, etc, but get to it when you can!

3. Tamara!! Such a sweet little birdie. She is a wonderful friend, and I have been fortunate enough to do some work with her.

And a fourth one just because! ;D

Cat! One word, awesome! She and her hubbie introduced Mike and I waaaaaay back when. A total gem :D

The Merriman's

Changes..

Holiday Happenings...

Tis the Season..

Another first...

Eight

Christmas!

Daisy dances...

Hair!

Randoms of Daisy...

He really does like her!

Snowman

Boo!

51

Arr!

Happy 7 months Daisy-Roo!

My Grandma :)

Pumpkin Patch

Kung-fu Ben

He did it!

And two more...

Happy Birthday Ambrose & Maisie!

Hmm.

Designer Apron!

A Kamloops Thanksgiving...

Random Facts About ME!

SO FUNNY!

Numero three

Robot Party Ex-tra-va-ganza

Immunization time..

Swimming Lessons

Six months :)

Follow me!

We've been busy..

It's September already!?!

Strike a pose

What we have been up to...

She's at it again!

Daisy's update

Exersaucer fun!

A tooth! A tooth!

I think this should be mandatory attire for fence painting...

Four months

My Wordle

My funny dude...

3 months, 1 week and 4 days old...

Bye Bye Bucka

Allco Park

Three months

Daisy + Sophie

Summer fun

Holy Bear Batman!

Daisy is ready for the sun...

R.I.P Sucky...

Happy girl!

Brother & Sister

Ben and his Super Powers

Lake Days

The dreaded immunizations

One of Daisy's photo sessions...

Happy two months Daisy!

Tiny little pants...

Superman + alligator boots = FUN!

7 weeks!

Big brother, little sister

Mother's Day..

Achoo!

Butterball

Daisy is one month!

Our update...

Brother & Sister :)

I *heart* Daisy

Daisy's Blue Steel

Life with Daisy...

The Birth of Daisy Rayne!

Spider-Ben!

More Daisy

She's here!

Ben at the Park

Cheese!

I heart Daisy