Cole Slaw

Droopy Drawers.

2012-02-16T21:34:00.000-08:00

Someone change this kids diaper!!

TP.

2012-02-15T09:13:00.000-08:00

Pros = we are saving toilet paper

Cons = these little suckers are everywhere, remind me of easter eggs & absolutely add up

My Valentine(s)

2012-02-14T08:19:00.000-08:00

I could not live without them.

These 3 are my everything!

Super WHAT?

2012-02-13T21:22:00.000-08:00

I heard there was a Super Bowl several weeks ago, missed it, too busy talking and chasing KIDS.

I do know that the Patriots lost though because Gisele Bundchen got a lot of heat for something she said about Tom's teammates playing bad...see, I got the low down on the game.

big smiles.

big rolls.

Pure Bliss.

2012-02-13T21:02:00.000-08:00

Tree Climber + Toddler Boy = All Day Entertainment.

Big Apple Love.

2012-02-13T14:00:00.000-08:00

Sicker than a dog with a fever....this one still LOVES New York!

Special thanks to Mego for his NY attire.

BBB & Momma Showered!

2012-02-12T20:57:00.000-08:00

Today we honored and showered Meg and baby boy blalock!

It's an understatement to say that we are SO excited to meet this little guy - he's got a whole crew anxiously awaiting his arrival.

With 6 weeks to go, she's looking fabulous and her heart is full.

Wonderful day surrounded by her favorite ladies.

Those that know this special gal know that she's already an amazing mom to her first love Lu, can't wait to see her fall in love all over again with baby boy!

hot momma

3 generations, love their excitement

group picture - 1 of 10

love to see the faces people make after several timed shots

proud nonnie & daughter

we each decorated a onesie

special guest Maddi - she's Adorable.

girl talk.

brunch goodies.

the guests - all smiles.

preggers together - how cute are these 2?!

if you look closely, you'll see so many smiles in this picture, love that.

US.

big sister - she's the BEST.

we got crafty.

don't forget your candy bag!

Lunch, Kids & Beer.

2012-02-01T06:41:00.000-08:00

We met the Prentice clan (minus husbands) at Redhook Brewery for lunch. It was between Red Robin and Redhook - the choice was obvious. Perfect lunch date. We were the only table with kids and I like that. We gabbed, Cole & Hadley played, Carson ate everything in site and Case smiled then slept. I really, really, really like this girl and her kids.

he is funny, pretty sure I know where he gets it.

love this picture of a momma and her son.

lil man.

shocker, Cole's eating crayons.

his eyes are amazing, look at those lashes.

yes, I asked the server to take our picture - that's me.

we let Hadley watch the boys while we continued to gab.

Boys & Their Dog

2012-01-31T20:31:00.000-08:00

The poor dog, he was simply trying to log his 22nd hour of sleep when......the boys found him.

Case getting cozy with the beast.

Then Cole moved in on Case.

Case asked me to save him..Cole yelled "no, he's all mine".

Every day is initiation in our house.

Two Birds - One Stone

2012-01-31T15:23:00.000-08:00

You mean we can clean them both at the same time?? Amazing. Safe? Only with adult present.

3 Months was F.A.S.T

2012-01-30T20:27:00.000-08:00

Case Michael Conniff, you are 3 months old!!!
Life with you is quit easy.
You have started to blow bubbles.
You love the bath and kick vigorously, splashing water everywhere.
You turn maroon red when you are mad.
You have started to watch in awe of your big brother, you are tracking him and his every move.
You absolutely know who your mom and dad are, when you see us you smile and begin to talk.
Speaking of talking...you are a talker.
You are LONG - you are wearing 3-6 month clothing.
You always fall asleep in the car, almost immediately.
You are a dream sleeper.
You are an observer.
Your smile is infectious.
You are our Case.

It was time - FIRST haircut

2012-01-30T14:41:00.000-08:00

Longgg overdue, but it was really hard to cut these lovely locks. Curly Cole got a trim and he was a champ!

Take note, this was actually his second appointment, I cancelled an hour before the last time - we (mom & dad) just weren't ready.

In addition, I told Jackie (the hair stylist) immediately that I was going to be "that mom" shooting photos the entire 30 minutes. I did not fail her, trust me.

So, here we have it - his first haircut at almost 2 1/2 years old.

He had a fro - super puffy and frizzy hair this morning.

First cut, which she saved for me and his baby book (where exactly is THAT book?)

less than thrilled.

I should mention he was watching a Curious George movie.

hereditary tongue - got that from his dad.

finished product.

he looks way older now.

My Cup of Jo

2012-01-28T14:44:00.000-08:00

I've been meaning to blog about you for months, maybe even years.

I love you cup of Jo...BUT, I heat and reheat you about 5 times a day.

You see, kids are distracting and unfortunately I don't have the luxury to just drink you in ONE sitting at ONE time.

I take a sip, then bounce around the kitchen tending to the kids and even the husband. You sit there and begin to cool off...I can see your steam slipping away from me.

Sometimes I misplace you.

You end up in the bathroom, the kids room, even in the laundry room. Whenever I find you, you are rarely more than half way empty and always cold.

I appreciate you, you make me happy - I look forward to you each and every morning.

I'm sorry that we aren't closer, maybe one day.

Grandpa (E-Pa) & Gramma.

2012-01-27T14:41:00.000-08:00

Pretty sure they really, really love this kid AND he....loves them too! Nothing better than living close to family, we are blessed.

Teammates For Life.

2012-01-25T08:35:00.000-08:00

Pat is always telling Cole that him and Case are teammates, they are on the same team, they protect each other forever. The idea of them being teammates for life gets me teary!

Marching Band.

2012-01-24T12:48:00.000-08:00

If you know Cole, you know how much he LOVES the marching band.
We're confident that the marching band currently trumps all sports!
He received this trumpet as his "big brother" gift when Case was born (boy, was I dumb to get him a loud horn). After a few Husky football games this past season, he can 100% mimic a band member with both his horn and his drums (not pictured). It's quit the site to see and I never want to forget this!

Not So Stinky

2012-01-23T23:23:00.000-08:00

NOTHING is better than a clean babe. Literally, nothing.

Same Hat, Different Kid.

2012-01-23T20:21:00.000-08:00

Brothers, but definitely not twins.

Sledding!

2012-01-17T12:50:00.000-08:00

We are having way too much fun in this snow!

There's the best sledding hill by Nonnie's house!

just his size.

this picture was from Sunday, we had about 7 inches on our back deck!

proper snow gear, jersey over down coat.

yep, Case and I were outside too.

Nonnie braving the hill!

Mini Pilots

2012-01-16T14:31:00.000-08:00

Four Fashionably Late (see sidebar) invited us to the Museum of Flight on Friday and we had the very BEST time. The rascals (Cole & Reece) were in heaven. They are regulars, so Reece was thrilled to show Cole the ropes (different from the ropes that block off where you're NOT supposed to go, pretty sure my kid sounded off an alarm in that area). Very fun day, thanks again Carrie! If you have not been to the MOF, highly recommend it.

Cole was obsessed w/ the airplanes that he could climb in.

Sharing the Little Einsteins rocket ship.

Case enjoyed it from a different view - little Celine was there too, all snuggled in her Ergo.

I love this kid, he's hilarious.

Taking Turns..

A real fighter pilot like his grandad.

I Blinked.

2012-01-13T13:21:00.000-08:00

And you turned 10 weeks old my baby boy!

34 degrees AND he chose the beach.

2012-01-12T21:00:00.000-08:00

It was freezing, but beautiful. I asked Cole what he wanted to do on this day, he chose the beach.

I bet you can guess who took this picture.

TT - from his view.

2012-01-11T20:08:00.000-08:00

Tummy time, just Case and the inch worm.

First Day Of Preschool

2012-01-11T09:10:00.000-08:00

The morning went by way too fast, before we knew it, we were almost late to Cole's first day of school!

Geez, getting out of the house with an actual start time in mind is not easy.

Very first full day at Preschool = Success.

I did get a call from the school around 11am - I took a deep breathe and answered the call....oops, I packed him a peanut butter & jelly sandwich, rookie mistake - no peanut butter allowed at school (allergies). So, they made him a bagel.

Dad and I went to pick the big kid up in the late afternoon, he jumped up and down several times.

We learned a few things about Cole at school today; some the teachers told us, some Cole told us:

He did not nap on the mat, but was able to look at books quietly.

He was the only kid in his class who did not nap.

I play with kids.

He ate really well, all snacks and about half of his lunch.

Poopy, teacher changed me, gloves.

Overall, great first day.

I sing ABC's and play with tractor.

The day went by SO slow for mom, I kept looking at the clock thinking "wonder what he's doing?" - ok, ok, so maybe I read your daily schedule a few times and then thought about what you were doing. You caught me!

Two things to note: the dog stayed home & I barely made it out of your school last week before I broke down into tears and sat in my car alone.

If you'd let me....

2012-01-10T14:40:00.000-08:00

I'd like to give you 287 kisses today.

Thank you Safeway!

2012-01-09T16:32:00.000-08:00

I always thought these horses and other riding contraptions outside grocery stores were so odd and somewhat trashy. But guess what.....Cole loves this horse and knows exactly how many quarters it costs to ride it. If you ask me, 50 cents is kind of a rip off, but the 30 seconds of joy it brings my son is priceless.

Big Grin.

2012-01-09T14:40:00.000-08:00

What's he smiling about?

I think it's because he gets 100% mommy time for now on Tuesdays and Thursdays!

Bobbleheads

2012-01-09T14:26:00.000-08:00

True bobble heads.

Cole & Deacon.

Recent Amazon Purchases

2012-01-06T14:24:00.000-08:00

I am totally weird and Amazon.com would second that notion. How would they even demo target me, besides being a mom? Drum roll please, for my most recent purchases.....

Big Day!

2012-01-04T09:20:00.000-08:00

Someone starts preschool today.

We'll it's just a 2 hour introduction, but still....he's going to preschool with other kids and teachers.

He's excited, but keeps asking me if I'm going to be there.

I will be there, BUT next week he goes solo and I'll probably cry when I drive away.

He's a Giant.

2012-01-03T19:47:00.000-08:00

Starting at Guard, at 6 foot 4 inches tall......he's a Freshman, wears lucky number 13, Case Conniff!!

Maybe I'm slightly exaggerating, but he's in the 95th percentile which is totally new to me. I know, I know...many of you have "off the chart" kids, but 95th percentile is a whole new ballgame for us. He's outgrowing his 3 month clothing at a more than rapid rate!

TWO month stats: 12 lbs 12 oz AND 25 inches long - like an inch worm.

Christmas 2011

2012-01-02T10:28:00.000-08:00

It was simply perfect.
Cole was a hoot - so much fun watching him Christmas morning - the magic of Santa Claus truly is magical.

Our Christmas Tree.

Santa visited the chimney downstairs - note the Leaf Blower.

He loves to blow leafs with dad - now he has his own toy blower. He had asked Santa for this over and over again, any time we'd see a Santa...which was often. "Santa, Blowder".

Safety glasses.

dad and dog - snuggle buggle.

yep, Case was chillen.

more blower - now with the backpack like E-Pa.

The very tan and well rested Blalock clan came over late morning.

Cole asked me if Case's shirt was a candy cane - hilarious. Thanks Aunt Judy...you gave Cole this little get up!

Getting ready for dinner.

He's such a little boy!

blower in site.

e-pa with Cole & cousin Will.

little rascals.

Trouble.

E-pa brought out the train - it was his when he was a little boy - its magical.

loved the train,

cousin Abbey and Cole sharing duties.

Aunt Sara and Case.

Big and little cousin time.

the kiddos.

In her mid 90's - Gigi and Cole!

Getting ready...for family photos on the stairs.

Pretty sure all the kids are finally looking!

my parents with their kids and grandchildren!

family Christmas photo!

Garbage Disposal.

2011-12-30T08:48:00.000-08:00

He weighs over 170 lbs.

He religiously takes his position during each meal time.

He's been known to move chairs - with people in them.

He's our garbage disposal.

look closely for the large paw and nose.

He's under the chair.

Here he is, waiting for scraps - take note of the "snow" that Cole made out of his napkin in the background.

Grandad & Grandma Patty!

2011-12-29T20:18:00.000-08:00

Lucky for us, Grandad and Grandpa Patty will travel across the country to see the kids several times a year!

We had a fun visit with them prior to Christmas.

They will be back out to visit when baby Blalock is here!

Great picture of the 5 of them!

After ice cream.

Family of Four.

2011-12-29T09:00:00.000-08:00

We each have one buddy at all times.

It's amazing, so blessed.

I'll always be their first love & I cherish that.

I'm thinking that our hearts have to be bigger than our fists.

picture courtesy of the talented Kim Charie

Christmas with Nonnie!

2011-12-28T20:37:00.000-08:00

Cole is obsessed with Nonnie's airplane. She is a flight attendant for Alaska Airlines and whenever we see a plane in the sky, it's Nonnies plane. Whenever Nonnie's not home, she's on her airplane. She had to fly on Christmas, so her and Cole celebrated earlier in the week. He loves his city play mat and especially his new airplanes.

Who's Who?

2011-12-28T20:32:00.000-08:00

There's one way to tell these boys apart...the butt chin. Here's the boys just about the same age when the picture was taken (8 weeks).

Hermanos

2011-12-28T20:13:00.000-08:00

Yep, this is my brother.

Case Conniff - 8 Weeks!!!

2011-12-26T09:22:00.000-08:00

Case Conniff.

How are you already 8 weeks old?

I have a serious crush on you, I really do.

I probably kiss your little head about 42 times a day.

I just about know every square inch of your face, the tiny light hairs, the red marks from a recent scratch, the way your eyes look when you coo at me, your balding head and how you rub your eyes when you're tired.

You are nothing less than perfection.

Let's talk about a day in a life of YOU:

- You really do live in 3 hour increments - you eat, chat for about an hour, then you sleep...you do this all day long. When you are tired, you are quickly thrown into a swaddle and put to sleep. We messed this up with your big brother, you're lucky you're the second born.

At night, you give us a 6 hour stretch - every single night. Too bad it's from 8pm-2am, but I'll take it.

Then, we're up together about every 3 hours until we start our day.

You love the car and fall asleep every time.

You never fall asleep in your swing, but you'll amuse us for about 20 minutes.

You love to chat, I have a feeling you're going to like to talk just like your brother (all.the.time).

Case, you make time go by way too fast!!

Staying Busy.

2011-12-22T21:09:00.000-08:00

We are packing as much in as we can during my maternity leave.

In actuality, we must stay busy as Cole cannot sit still.

He's loving his play dates and so is his momma.

Strolling the Phinney streets with Cannon - yes, they are holding hands.

Nordstrom women's lounge - babies needed to eat!

This was comical - these two were the only kids in the Nordstrom Cafe for lunch (minus the babies who were sleeping). They actually did quit well.

Jumping in the booth at Panera with Deacon - yep, we let them continue to jump after meeting at Kidz Bounce (I think that's what it's called). Deacon's mom and I needed to catch up!

Jump Planet with Jonah - this place was amazing! I could probably write an entire blog post on the jump companies and all the dirty socks that walk out the doors!

Pool Table.

2011-12-21T14:42:00.000-08:00

We (my husband) bought a pool table several months ago with the intentions that we'd play pool all the time.

Thanks to Craigslist, we can't return it.

But....we can put both kids on it and do a few load of laundry!

Double Stroller - WHAT?

2011-12-20T09:40:00.000-08:00

Who needs a double stroller!!?

I trekked these kids through the mall the other day without one.

Case was in his carrier on my left arm and I pushed Cole in the stroller with my right hand.

I was forced to stop in the kids shoe section in Nordstrom, just to take a break....lucky Cole scored a new pair of kicks.

Lack of sleep does indeed effect your thought process.

Sorta "Fun" Run.

2011-12-19T21:38:00.000-08:00

On Saturday morning, I committed to the Jingle Bell 5K run - to be held Sunday morning.

By Saturday night, I was thinking of every possible excuse to get out of it.

All night long, during each and every feed with Case - I came up with a new excuse to not do the run.

Sunday morning came quick and there was no cancelling on my dear friend Suz.

She's the greatest, she ran with me the entire time - although my pace was turtle like. We didn't talk after minute 2, as I couldn't speak!

Take note: the last time I ran was over 2 years ago....with the exception of running after Cole all the time.

Again, Suz is the BEST - she runs marathons and insisted on running with me.

Oh yes, Cole was there - dad did the run too and pushed Cole in the stroller. Shout out to dad - he was the 2nd stroller to run through the finish line - he's FAST.

Before the race - trying to stay warm and dry.

The run was actually fun, I loved the finish line.

Good luck running number (4719) - Pat's football number and my soccer number, weird.

I'm so sore, just about every square inch of my body.

30 Seconds In Heaven.

2011-12-15T21:35:00.000-08:00

For some...this could be good birth control.

Others, may like this kind of action and noise.

As for me, I was wearing ear plugs.

Side note....aren't they cute when they cry?

6 Weeks Already?

2011-12-14T09:43:00.000-08:00

Case turned 6 weeks on Sunday, more to come with updates on our little man.

Forgot The Marshmellows.

2011-12-13T21:40:00.000-08:00

Someone loves hot chocolate.

He kept calling it coffee and chocolate milk.

He stuck his fingers in the mug to lick the chocolate out.

He has an insane sweet tooth.

Run Mom Run.

2011-12-06T15:00:00.000-08:00

I ran away the other night to get my hair did.

Left the boys with their super dad and 1 bottle.

Dad's amazing, he has NO problem sending me away for a few hours.

Why is it that leaving the house without your children feels SO free - like a jail mate let loose for the first time in years!!??

You have this desire to run a million errands, walk into Starbucks (opposed to the drive thru), chat on the phone uninterrupted, maybe get lost while driving, AND listen to the music really loud in the car.

Truly free as a bird.

As I sat under the dryer, I checked in with the hubby and sent this picture, I could have sat there for hours!

Sometimes, a mom on the loose just needs to sit with foil in her hair.

I do realize this picture is far from flattering.

Our Christmas Tree.

2011-12-06T08:50:00.000-08:00

We found him this weekend (the tree).

He's perfect.

Cole said amazed "look, the Christmas tree in our house!" when he awoke from his nap, AFTER dad had snuck the tree inside.

Fun little family event.

some of the u-cuts were about 2 feet tall.

a dad and his son, with a saw.

missing a hand.

we see this look often.

family photo - I wore Case - poor guy had to wear a reindeer outfit.

yummy hot chocolate.

Our Huskies!!!

2011-12-05T21:00:00.000-08:00

Aren't they adorable?

Guess.

2011-12-05T20:50:00.000-08:00

Who wears ONLY boots and a diaper while riding their motorcycle?

Cole Slaw.

He is stylin.

On One Cold Day...

2011-12-01T12:56:00.000-08:00

We ventured to downtown Kirkland to the park.

Our 2 year old has more energy than a 12 week old puppy!

Love me some park pictures - nothing better than being outside.

dad followed right after.

I'll most likely canvas this - if you know me well, I love canvas.

I'm Alive.

2011-11-30T13:00:00.000-08:00

Moms seem to get shafted from 90% of all photos - so here I am, alive and doing well. VERY sleep deprived, but I do remember taking this picture - so that's a good thing. I showered and did my hair - this was an amazing day!

Turkey Day!

2011-11-29T15:12:00.000-08:00

It was a perfect day and evening, filled with family and lots of food - too much food!

We hosted Thanksgiving dinner at our house, first year ever and it turned out really well.

The guest list included.....

the bird.

the chef - he's an amazing cook!

Ari, Auntie Meg and nugget.

babe Case (the one who sleeps during the day, but not at night).

best friends - Ari and Cole in their football jerseys. that was NOT Ari's beer.

the pup - hoping for scraps of bird.

la familia.

Case & E-pa

Meg & Zeb and his mustache.

Gigi Laura, Gamma and new momma + babe.

Gigi is 95 years old!!

4 Generations!

Nonnie and her grand kids!!!

One Couch - 2 Boys

2011-11-29T14:50:00.000-08:00

It's perfect - the couch watches both of them while I quickly try to pick up, throw a load of laundry in the washing machine, put the eggs and milk away from breakfast and...if I'm lucky, I can pee really quick!

Good Times With Kiddo Friends.

2011-11-23T16:52:00.000-08:00

We recently had a play date with these rascals and boy, did we have fun!

How sweet is Hads kissing Case. The babies are so unaware of the fun.

This is Camilla & Case - they are getting married in 22 years. It's an arranged marriage.

Teeny Tiny.

2011-11-18T10:04:00.000-08:00

I forgot how tiny newborns are and how much they sleep during the day.

Breakfast of Champions!

2011-11-16T15:00:00.000-08:00

Eating breakfast on the windowsill watching a dump truck and tractor at work.

Many Faces of Case.

2011-11-16T10:03:00.000-08:00

This kids got a lot of different looks.

Consider this early initiation to our household.

sad lip.

little piggy.

tiny mouse.

little old man.

SO Many Firsts.

2011-11-10T14:14:00.000-08:00

Case is 2 weeks old today!

Cole is just over 26 months, where does the time GO?

We've had several FIRSTS for Case & Cole over the past few weeks.

Check um out.

First time Cole used the breast pump...kinda missed his boobs here.

First Bottle for Case.

Lots of questions about moms milk versus cows milk.

One of many first kisses.

Too bad he's too young to babysit.

First attempt at getting some good shots.

First bath at home.

Success and clean baby.

First picture home from the hospital with both boys - I must have been asleep as I don't remember this.

First time in his hand-me-down slippers from Cole (given by Auntie).

First car ride together - I took them both to see the pediatrician. Have you ever wondered which kid to get out or in the car first?? I paused like a rookie, how does this work with two?

I must really like this picture.

First lesson on the anatomy of babies face - eyes, nose, mouth, etc.

A real live baby.

First pictures before leaving the hospital - love his tie.

Ditto to the above.

Family & Friends To See Case

2011-11-10T13:57:00.000-08:00

Case has met several of our favorite people over the past 10 days! He is SO lucky to live by family and will see them all the time.

Gamma and Nonnie (aka, baby hogs)

E-Pa

The clan!

Auntie Meg Prentice - google eyes over newborns, then she remembers that they don't sleep.

Sitter Hadley (Cole's first GF) and buddy Carson

Gamma.

I die over our "going home" picture - the nurse was far from a photographer, she missed our heads!

Meg, her chicken and Case.

A real live American Doll.

proud dads and their stache's - I see many camping and hiking trips in their future. ha!

super cousin Ari - love their smiles here.

Ari is going to be the BEST big sister come March.

Cole love Uncle's, but not his creepy stache.

So funny!

Auntie! She has been dying to hold Case - last night, her wish came true! She's got a little buddy cooking in her - half way there!!

Part II: Case & Cole's First High Five

2011-11-09T21:11:00.000-08:00

I can't imagine the boys first meet and greet going any better.

Cole came running into the hospital room with baby boy balloon in hand, SO excited to see us!

He said "baby"!

Cole being thrilled to meet his brother is an understatement - he was ecstatic.

To see your firstborn, your first little love bug, meet your newborn and new love is beyond special.

I simply cannot scribe the perfect words, but it's magical.

Cole loves Case, he loved him from the moment he met him.

It is an honor to be the boy's mother.

Cole hopped right on the bed, so gentle as he touched Case.

My boys.

First family photograph.

Loving on Case.

First time Cole held Case - once he's done, he says "I'm all done".

Such a proud big brother - my 3 guys (just missing the dog)

Cole was playing Curious George.

momma and her boys!

Family hug - from 3 to 4, just like that!

Baby Case Arrived!

2011-11-08T21:02:00.000-08:00

On Sunday, October 30th Case Conniff entered this world at 8:47pm.

He weighed 7.3 ounces and was 21 inches long.

His blog announcement has been delayed as we've been busy snuggling and staring at him, we're attempting to capture every single moment! I'm quit aware that the newborn stage does not last forever - I'm embracing and soaking in each and every moment. He is a special treat to our family, he's the absolute perfect addition.

We are blessed and thankful to get to know this sweet little guy!

I can most definitely say that TWO is in fact better than ONE, which I never thought was imaginable.

Case completes our family.

So I don't forget...here's how Case entered this world:

I had been really dilated for several weeks and was convinced that I would go into labor prior to my induction date of 11/1/11 (my due date as well). Since Cole was born on 9/9/09 - we figured we'd stick with simple birthdays in terms of numbers. A nurse called me a ticking time bomb based on my dilation, saying that when I did go into labor, she wanted to make sure I was indeed near the hospital.

Sunday, October 30th:

4pm: contractions, similar to what I'd been experiencing for the past few weeks

4:30pm: we began timing contractions, but they seemed to be too far apart

4:45pm: Pat downloaded a "labor" iphone application which timed the contractions and the frequency

5pm: Best $0.99 spent as we discovered that my contractions were on average about 3 min apart, lasting on average 50 seconds - let's head to the hospital!

5:45pm: We arrive at the hospital and they wanted to make sure that I was in labor prior to placing me into the delivery room

6:30pm: Confirmed, in labor - heading to our hospital room shortly

7pm: Jump into the hospital bed - let's do this!

8pm: Epidural in play - thank God for modern medicine

8:15pm: Epidural works and dilated to 9 cm

8:20pm: Doctor arrives - she wasn't working or on call, we bribed her - she's amazing!

8:47pm: Case Conniff is here - umbilical cord around his neck, just like his big brother.

It all happened SO fast, I barely had time to think about what was really going on, Case was coming today!

instant love.

a father and his son.

my labor coach and amazing husband and father.

little buddy.

round up, 7.3oz

first bath.

love this look.

my girls.

our doctor - she's the best!

Case, we love you!

proud grandpa.

since we completely missed dinner, I was starving at 10pm.

this picture cracks me up, my lovely husband did capture several pictures of me experiencing contractions. He took video as well, what us women go through is wild!

The Park.

2011-10-31T15:07:00.000-07:00

I took Pat and Cole to the park the other day.

They had a blast, I played photographer.

My husband is fun, really fun.

False Alarm.

2011-10-31T13:00:00.000-07:00

Baby Boy,

I was certain we were going to meet you on Thursday. In fact, I never thought I'd still be pregnant awaiting your arrival. But...I am.

On Thursday, we headed to my doctors office to make sure I wasn't about to deliver you at home.

Being really dilated for several weeks and having tons of contractions, the nurse over the phone told me I was a ticking time bomb and that I needed to be checked immediately.

Checked and sent home all within 1 hour.

I insisted we have these last photos taken as this was your birthday - but it wasn't your birthday!

XOXO, momma

Our Main Man.

2011-10-30T14:57:00.000-07:00

We are soaking in our time with just Cole, as we know it won't be long until we're a family of FOUR.

dinner for daddy's birthday.

funny kid.

Double Trouble

2011-10-30T14:49:00.000-07:00

These unborn boys will be 5 months apart.

Can't wait for them to meet in March.

Cousins, close cousins - they'll share a lot together.

Very fun to be pregnant together, but can't wait to share a drink together again too.

Potty.

2011-10-27T10:24:00.000-07:00

He was totally into it, now....not so much.

I just love this picture, makes me laugh.

Movember.

2011-10-26T10:35:00.000-07:00

During November each year, Movember is responsible for the sprouting of moustaches on thousands of men’s faces, in the US and around the world. With their Mo’s, these men raise vital funds and awareness for men’s health, specifically prostate cancer and other cancers that affect men.

Please donate to team Mustache Man (supporting my husband and his friends)!

Donate Here - Movember

How cute are these Movember members??

Birthday Man!

2011-10-25T08:00:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday PC!

I married the greatest guy, husband, father, son, brother and friend.

I am one lucky gal, let me tell you.

He is like a fine bottle of wine, gets better with age.

He is all of these things and more:

Patient - mostly with his son, I think it's harder with your wife

Artistic - he's a closet artist

Talented & athletic - he beats me in nearly everything

Risk taker - he owns a dirt bike for goodness sake

Intellect - he tends to know the strangest things, have you ever played Trivial Pursuit with him?

Caring - he has a HUGE heart

Killer guy - he's one of a kind, amazes me more & more each year!

He's a super dad

love this!

This Look....

2011-10-24T21:22:00.000-07:00

Is a look of someone watching Disney.

Guess Who?

2011-10-24T11:30:00.000-07:00

Deacon & Cole.

We caught these two chatting up a storm at the bottom of the stairs the other day.

They were cheering for the Huskies - yelling touchdown!! Although the Huskies did NOT score many TD's on Saturday.

Can't get enough of these 2 boys together.

I was spying on them.

So stinking cute.

The Patch

2011-10-23T21:03:00.000-07:00

I have no idea what the name of the patch was that we visited last weekend - nope, no idea.

But....it was in Kirkland/Redmond - about 6 minutes from our house and it was perfect for the little man.

I think it was geared towards younger kids - because there were about 50 of them there.

Cole seemed half asleep during our visit - maybe I was half asleep too?

The crow is scarier than the little guy.

happy participant.

feeding the goats.

this animal needs a haircut (probably like our kid)

yes, I wear white pants after labor day.

family photo opp - may be our last of just the 3 of us!

Cole liked the wheelbarrow best.

child labor.

he could probably work here - IF, I could remember where we were.

dad and cole slaw.

Stupid Scale

2011-10-18T22:32:00.000-07:00

True or False?

Our dog has lost several pounds over the past few months.

True or False?

I officially weigh more than him.

True or False?

Evergreen Hospital's scales are OFF.

Family Husky Game!

2011-10-17T13:38:00.000-07:00

Here's the deal......

For the past month, daily, Cole has been talking about the football game that he went to with "daddy." I'm really not even exaggerating, he talks about the football game and the band all.the.time.

So, I had to get in on the action.

You see, daddy is WAY cooler than mommy. Daddy has the dirt bike, daddy plays rough, daddy watches football and played football, daddy likes to play in the yard...the list goes on and on and on.

I really want to win - so I invited Cole to the football game with ME on Saturday.

We took the bus (his very first bus ride) and met daddy at the stadium.

All was perfect, we had a really fun day - this kid LOVES football games, obsessed with them.

After the game, we took the bus home - he was sitting in the back of the bus singing and acting as if he was leading the marching band.

When we got home, I asked "Cole, did you have so much fun today?" He replied, "YES, I went to the husky football game with daddy!"

I tried, I think I'm going to take him to Disneyland solo next weekend - that should stick in his little pea head.

Family photo!

Watching the band at halftime.

This could be a framer.

whatever satisfies your taste buds.

The bus ride.

The Waddle

2011-10-13T15:31:00.000-07:00

I've got it going on.

I'm at a 2cm, why do I feel like a 15cm?

Pelvis pressure is an understatement.

Flashbacks to soccer - getting kicked really hard in the pubic bone.

I could have sworn HE was going to fall out last night.

My doctor says any day, but that means any day between today and November 1st - which is actually 19 days away - to me, that's not any day.

I was 4 days late with Cole and induced.

My spirit is good, my pelvis, not so good.

Is this kid wearing a helmet?

36 weeks

2011-10-09T20:42:00.000-07:00

Pictures from last week at 36 weeks - almost there!

Can't wait to meet this little guy, but also can wait....I do know that I'll actually get "less" sleep when he's out of the womb, so no rush.

BBB - Due March 2012

2011-10-05T15:25:00.000-07:00

It's simply and understatement to say we're excited about Baby Boy Blalock and his early Spring arrival.

We cannot wait to meet this little guy!

Over the moon excited - wish we could speed up time, so that he'd be here sooner.

Oh and he's a boy, I saw for myself this past weekend.

Can you imagine how much trouble BBB and baby Conniff are going to get into?

Biggest congrats EVER to this special family!!!

This was several weeks ago - she's MUCH bigger now....kidding, the momma is teeny tiny.

I'm a sucker for profile pictures - he's SO cute!

Heavy Head.

2011-10-05T14:00:00.000-07:00

He's ready for fall.

I think I know what Santa could bring Cole this year.

Spoiled & Blessed

2011-10-04T12:17:00.000-07:00

WOW, I almost get blinky eyed when I think about how spoiled and blessed I am to have some amazing women in my life! They spoiled me this past weekend with gifts, laughs and love for baby boy Conniff.

Baby boy now has some of his "own" things!!

Thank you over and over to my besties for an amazing morning.

Beautiful hosts!

Group picture.

4 prego women together with buns in oven - Brooke (unknown baby gender), Carrie (girl), Me (boy) and Sissy (boy).

The table.

The pretty Jan's!

Suz and her new baby boy (J/K - that's baby Nash)! Dare you to say my face looks FULL?

My uterus sister Brooke - we have the exact same due date and were apparently "busy" on the same day in January!

Kirkland or Hawaii?

2011-10-03T10:30:00.000-07:00

We said goodbye to summer this past week in downtown Kirkland.

Although some of these pictures could be from somewhere tropical or at least sunny and gorgeous!

Love where we live, even if we have a summer that lasts 1 month.

We likely will not return to the Marina until June or July - for more ice cream, boats, rocks and ducks.

SO pretty.

The toddler picked cotton candy ice cream and had maybe 3 bites.

Hot Husband.

Gorgeous sunset.

The 35 week belly

He loves the water.

Swingggggg.

Handstand - he wanted to go in the water, so we let him put his hands in.....

Love this, he pinches Pat's face when he rides on his shoulders.

"I am 2 and crazy!"

Isn't the background amazing?

Get back here ducks.

He was so close, he could touch them - they thought he had bread, he just screamed and ran after each of them, until the very last one flew away.

Too Close?

2011-10-02T21:15:00.001-07:00

He doesn't have vision insurance, is this too close?

Proof - Husky Tailgate and Game

2011-10-02T20:26:00.000-07:00

Proof that I attended the UW vs Cal Husky game last weekend - at 35 weeks pregnant.

Swollen, sporty and sober!

go dawgs.

How cute is Emily post pregnancy only 3 weeks?

Ali & Kyle are back in Seattle - yeah!!

(Pictures courtesy of Emily)

12 Days Ago....

2011-09-30T15:25:00.000-07:00

I turned 33.

Celebrated with the greatest friends.

Was spoiled.

Ate Mexican food.

I kind of celebrated ME, because sometimes I forget to do that.

Oh, and I didn't cry - not one single tear.

I picked this restaurant.

A Megan/Meghan sandwich - Suz was the photographer.

World's greatest cake and chef.

I'm fairly certain Cole thought it was still his birthday.

Bless YOU.

2011-09-26T11:19:00.000-07:00

Me: HUGE sneeze

Cole: "Bless you mommy"

Me: Shocked..."Thank you, Cole".

Even if he never sleeps again, at least he'll have good manners!

From Crib to Bed....No Going Back!

2011-09-23T11:15:00.000-07:00

Monday night, the mattress came and graced Cole's floor. He was thrilled jumping on it and kept saying "big boy bed". He wanted to sleep in the bed that night, but we were not prepared at all (no bedding, hadn't moved the crib, etc).

Tuesday night: "big bed, big bed" So...we gave it a whirl. He was so proud of himself when we left the room, he kind of gave this look like, "now what, is this for real?"

I sat outside his door in the dark for 25 minutes that first night, waiting for him to come out of his room....nothing, not a peep.

Wednesday morning: We heard him talking in his room, then he knocked on his door...opened it, quickly shut it and yelled "momma".

Wednesday night: I found him crying sitting on the floor about 2 feet away from his bed, 2 hours after he'd fallen asleep. Dad found him standing on the bed crying, facing the wall at some point in the middle of the night.

Thursday morning: Tiny knocks on his door, door opens, quickly shuts and he yells "momma" - standing at the door with EE and EBRA in arms.

Thursday night: Night night Cole.....(1 min later) Cole is standing at his door weeping, walk him back to bed. (3 min later) I catch him tiptoeing down the hallway, literally as quiet as a mouse...walk him back to bed and have a quick pep talk about the bed and it being night time. (2 min later) back in the hallway....asking for another book and milk. hmmmmmmmmmmm. Back to bed and he stays.

Somewhere between the hours of 11pm and 7am (Friday morning) we were up all night long. Someone would be sitting in the middle of their floor crying, standing at the door, etc. I do recall around 5:30am, the entire family was laying on a twin mattress on the floor in Cole's room, I snuck out.

I'm thinking night #3 was the worst and would presume that any book would say the same thing, I remember during sleep training that night #3 was called the extinction night....I'd rather call it the night from Hell!!!

so cozy.

do you think he has enough friends in bed with him?

big kid.

My Monkey

2011-09-21T16:09:00.001-07:00

You amaze me each and every single day.

New Co-worker

2011-09-20T14:12:00.000-07:00

I hired an account manager.

He's perfect.

He eats Cheetos and watches Mickey Mouse Clubhouse most of the day.

Not sure how long he'll be able to keep this gig.

He's overpaid.

But really good for office morale.

Little Boys Birthday Party

2011-09-18T22:04:00.000-07:00

I'm slightly behind, but here it is......Cole's 2nd birthday party!

We supported 2 fast food chains with happy meals for the kids and KFC for the big kids.

Baseball themed cake and pinata.

perfect evening, weather was in the 80's.

this kid loves a good happy birthday song, we probably sang it 15 times last weekend.

tons of pictures below, hang on for the ride. thanks for all your help family and friends in preparing for the party, I needed it. :)

kids table, what could hadely be saying to deacon?

love how reece is holding the guitar

someone preferred to take 2 swings and watch his friends

sweetest little baseball player landin.

Ari was our big hitter!

birthday cake.

Suz & Landin playing cards

prentice boys

super grandma's - huge helps!

Guest Blogger: Suzanne Hart

2011-09-18T21:15:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday, Heather Anne Conniff!

Happy
Energetic
Always there for you
Talks A.L.O.T.
Honest
Extreme love for the Lord
Rarely cleans out her car (unless boss is in town)

Athletic
Nerdy, have you heard her jokes?
Nice looking pregnant lady…the cutest :)
Easy to talk to, she makes you feel important

Caring to all people…she makes friends with cashiers, strangers, EVERYONE!
One of the hardest workers, probably is the hardest worker I know
Naps during movies at the theaters, aka ‘expensive nap’
Not the best “hearer” but a great listener
Infectious personality
Funny, really funny (read her blog)
Forever best friend

The Girls

2011-09-12T21:02:00.000-07:00

Great friends.

Fun weekend together.

Very funny memories.

Big Ol' Red Bird

2011-09-12T20:57:00.000-07:00

Keeping up with tradition.

We visited Red Robin on Cole's birthday.

They sang, he ate - we shared his sundae.

Never disappointed.

This face is so priceless.

All for me?

Nope, you must share with wild daddy!

Birthday boy!

First Real Husky Game

2011-09-12T13:15:00.000-07:00

Cole and dad ventured out on Saturday to Husky stadium - where dad played 10 years ago!

Washington played Hawaii and won 40-32.

They had a father son date with Greg and buddy Deacon.

It's my understanding that these little boys had a blast yelling and cheering on the dawgs.

I'm sure these dads were also a huge hit as they are rock stars taking toddlers to a 6+ hour event!

Group picture!

Halftime, they were watching the band and refueling.

TWO - Birthday Boy!

2011-09-09T13:51:00.000-07:00

First half of the birthday day = success.

How are you TWO years old?

When I asked if you heard a birdie outside the window this morning you said, "no, a CROW" - that's how you're two. You actually know what a flying rat is.

You are SO smart.

Incredibly funny.

Very energetic.

Highly coordinated (we think).

Compassionate - you kissed the dogs paw when you ran over it with your bike.

Fun loving.

Adorable, especially when you bat your eyes at the ladies.

Cole Slaw, you are everything we could imagine, perfection in every word. We are loving watching you grow and change practically daily. We are proud, proud, proud of you! Each day with you is a blessing and we are thankful. If two is so terrible, then this is nothing.

LOVE, mom & dad

7:30am - it's my birthday!

Cole loves baseball, now he has his own helmet in case he gets called to the big leagues.

Opening his Motorcross motorcycle with anticipation.

Nonstop fun - it even makes noises.

Batter up - we're working on his swing.

32 Weeks = 8 MONTHS

2011-09-06T21:26:00.000-07:00

I say this all the time, but you are actually pregnant for 10 months - 9 is a lie. Not sure who came up with 9 months, because last time I checked 40 weeks divided by 4 equals 10, NOT 9.

My two (or more) cents:

husband says I'm hormonal - duh.
I am swollen, like I drank too much water.
I am up some nights in the kitchen between 2-3am searching for "healthy" snacks - who wants carrots in the middle of the night?
all of my clothes are too tight, even the ones I wore a month ago
I got on the scale this morning at the doctors office and just laughed, I even took my shoes and coat off prior to weigh in.
I wore all white today, even though it's against all fashion laws (white after labor day) - bite me, I was somewhat comfortable
I would have preferred to wear Pat's over sized basketball shorts and T-shirt to work, believe me.
I pop at least 8 tums a day - pretty much everything gives you heartburn, Google "foods that cause heartburn"
the grand finale.........
I have aged over the past several years....the tank I'm wearing in this photo was once a dress, a dress that I wore to a bachelorette party in Vegas. If I were having a daughter, she would NEVER know this little fact, never EVER.

Proper Way To Eat A Donut

2011-09-06T20:55:00.000-07:00

If you'd NEVER seen a donut with sprinkles on it before, WWYD?

Examine the tasty circle pastry - recognize the chocolate and wonder what are these colorful flakes?

Move in cautiously...take a small nibble, just a little taste.

Cole approves and asks for donuts at dinnertime moving forward.

Curls

2011-09-01T14:07:00.000-07:00

I LOVE these curls, he will probably be 14 and begging me to cut his hair.

Summertime

2011-08-31T11:51:00.000-07:00

Love that these two boys can run around in their diapers together.

Love that Deacon is going to be a big brother any day now.

Love that Cole tried to steal Deacon's ice cream when he'd finished his own bowl and sweet Deacon finally yelled at Cole...."no".

These two are going to be trouble together, no doubt.

so tired from spending time in the lake.

buddy Deacon.

this kid loves ice cream, just like his dad.

bogey should learn how to wipe his own mouth with his rag.

toys are taking over momma's life.

Jonah.

2011-08-31T11:47:00.000-07:00

Fun surprise last week, lunch and playtime with Jonah! We tend to get most of our better pictures at the kitchen table.

Construction Site

2011-08-29T09:24:00.000-07:00

The home next door has been the longest ongoing project, but in all honesty has been a great teacher for construction vehicles. Cole has learned all about excavators, tractors, dump trucks, asphalt pavers, etc

I'm going to miss the free entertainment.

Meet Colette

2011-08-28T21:32:00.000-07:00

If you were a girl, I'd name you Colette and put headbands and barrettes in your hair. I think you could start a new trend little guy....