The Hardy Family

OVER A YEAR

2010-11-19T14:50:00.000-05:00

It has been over a year since I have posted. I can't believe it. I started posting photos on Facebook and kind of got away from the blogging world. I am rejoining, and kind of with a "year in review" plan. I will start with the Halloween 2009 photos and work my way forward. I might take a while, but I will get there. I hate to lost this because it chronicles our life so much and I would love to publish it one day for the kids. So this is my November resolution and it starts today.

PUMPKINS

2009-10-04T13:47:00.000-05:00

Our church, Larchmont United Methodist, does a pumpkin patch every year as a fundraiser for various ministries. The truck arrives during the 11am worship service and then everyone comes outside to unload and organize...and eat. Lamar was traveling this weekend, so I decided to take the kids to the early service to miss the pumpkins. Well, apparently God has other plans. The truck arrived YESTERDAY. So, when we pulled up for early service, Grace and Walter saw the truck. We ended up staying at church until after the late service (5 hours later) to assist in the removal and display of the pumpkins.

On the Way to Larchmont School

2009-10-04T13:37:00.000-05:00

Going to get Grace from school.

First Day of School

2009-09-09T10:35:00.000-05:00

Grace and Walter both started new schools yesterday. Walter started two year old preschool at Larchmont United Methodist Preschool (LUMPS...also known as my new school) Grace started kindergarten at Larchmont Elementary School. When we arrived, during the torrential downpours, we discovered that Grace's classroom had been displaced due to a leaking ceiling. It did not phase her. She loved her first day and even came home with a happy note. When you get five of them, you can trade them in for something from the treasure box. She asked me to make her four more last night, so she could get something today.

On the way to school this morning, she asked if I could just drop her at the curb and let her walk by herself. It was like..."thanks for the last five years Mom, but I've got it now." Seriously??!?! On the nice days, we are parking at the church, loading Walter in the stroller and walking the four blocks to school. It is really nice.

Oh, and Walter stuck his head in the toilet at school yesterday...and flushed. Nothing like a self administered swirlie! Pictures to follow once I get the change to upload them (of the first day of school, not the swirlie!)

My Musical Babies

2009-08-04T04:43:00.003-05:00

This is a video of Grace and Walter dancing to The Both Reached for the Gun from Chicago the Musical. Safe to say that Walter does not need a career in the dancing business.

Post Updates

2009-06-22T07:46:00.000-05:00

Be sure to scroll WAY down. Easter pictures have been added below the school play.

Classic Walter and Grace

2009-06-22T07:44:00.002-05:00

These are their classic faces...I couldn't resist!

The Ocean View Carnival

2009-06-22T07:41:00.003-05:00

There is no lack of entertainment in Hampton Roads. Throughout the summer, there are lots of festivals, carnivals, concerts, and fireworks. Many of these are free. This is one nice advantage of living in a bigger city. Lamar took the kids up the road to the Ocean View Carnival a few weeks ago, while I had a meeting. They had a great time. Walter rode a few rides. Grace played on the big slide most of the afternoon.

Beaching It

2009-06-22T07:36:00.002-05:00

Our move to Ocean View was a great idea, even if my car was stolen from the driveway last year. The children, Lamar, and I love taking advantage of the Chesapeake Bay and beach right across the street. Grace and Walter have really become beach bunnies. Grace will go straight out with no fear, as long as her face does not get wet. Walter will go in to his knees. Of course, they both LOVE the sand. I have decided that I am not going to mop my hardwoods until the summer is over. I mean, really, what is the point? The house stays COVERED in sand!!

Jackie and Alex's Birthday

2009-06-18T18:30:00.003-05:00

Jackie and Alex are in Grace's class at school. They are twins. Their birthday this year was at the "tumbling class place," according to Grace. It is otherwise known as JW Tumbles. It is a gymnastics place that caters its lessons to children. Walter was invited as well. He just played. Grace bounced on the yoga ball, knocked over the air mattress, and zipped on the zip line. She had a great time and decided that she should take classes at the tumbling class place.

Jackie and Alex's Birthday cont...

2009-06-18T17:47:00.004-05:00

Spring Time in Virginia

2009-06-18T17:37:00.002-05:00

Spring arrived early in southeastern VA this year. Now that we have a larger back yard/driveway, the kids spend lots more time outside. Grace loves to ride in her jeep from the second birthday, and she is even willing to let Walter ride...sometimes. With Walter, it is always safety first. He insists on wearing his sister's bicycle helmet whenever he rides. It is Disney Princess-themed. Gotta love the fashion sense.

Unexpected Company

2009-05-21T11:32:00.003-05:00

Dad had clean up day this past weekend in South Carolina. He had some unexpected company in the pond. Gotta love a country Southern visitor. At least he did not stay long:)

Stats For Visitor:
Length: Long
Size: Big

Actually, he was believed to be about nine feet, but no one stopped to ask him!

WICKED WICKED WICKED

2009-05-21T11:23:00.000-05:00

If it comes near you, go see it. We went last weekend and it was amazing. I cannot express it enough. It is here in Norfolk until May 31, so I am hoping to go again. Right now, I sing the soundtrack all day...ask my assistant:)

Prayers for Evan

2009-05-21T11:13:00.002-05:00

Evan Bryant Roland is my roommate from graduate school's nephew. He was born last week. He is having a difficult time right now, still in the NICU. We are all praying for his rapid and permanent recovery. Get well soon, Evan. Everyone wants you home.

www.prayersforevan.blogspot.com

Slacker 2.0

2009-05-21T11:11:00.000-05:00

I AM TRYING!! The camera is fixed, so hopefully things will catch up!

More Grace and Walter

2009-05-21T11:10:00.001-05:00

Just Random Black and White Photos

2009-05-21T11:04:00.002-05:00

School Production

2009-05-21T10:59:00.002-05:00

At the end of February, (I know) Grace and Walter had their debut into the performing arts. Their school celebrated a Tribute to Walt Disney. Walter's class did The Mickey Mouse Club and Grace did Under the Sea from the Little Mermaid.

Easter!

2009-04-02T05:26:00.004-05:00

I know that this is really sad, but I am finally getting the Easter stuff up. It is a little out of order, but it is here. Grace was very uncooperative in the beginning of the day. Of course, there is always one that will not cooperate, right. They were both pretty cute if I do say so myself. We hunted eggs are church and then Pastor Scott released butterflies in the side yard of the church. He does this every year...and it is a hit every year. We got lots of compliments on Walter's seersucker. It is not common up here, since Norfolk VA is really not the south! There are even a few RARE ones of me. Enjoy!

I am a Slacker!

2009-04-02T05:26:00.001-05:00

It is official. Actually always has been. I keep meaning to update and life gets in the way. It is not like we are not taking pictures. It is just CRAZY around here. The kids will be gone for the next week. Thank you Grammie and Pop!!! I will be taking a few days off work. Thank you Nana Sue, so hopefully I will be back on track. I mean, I am still behind on Christmas! How sad is that. To everyone, I apologize, but it will get there. I PROMISE!!

We Are Still Around

2009-02-10T10:09:00.001-05:00

We are still here, I promise. We are just VERY busy. Lamar is busy with work and studying. I am busy with work and the kids. Oh, and our camera broke over Thanksgiving. We do have a brand new one, so hopefully we will be able to start posting again. I do have some pictures of the kids on a loaner camera (Thanks, Nana Sue) We should be back up and running soon!
Jennifer

Going to GG's House

2008-12-15T14:24:00.001-05:00

Well, Grace and Walter went to GG's house for the week. They were very excited as you can tell. Walter fell asleep on the way. Then they decided that playing in the trunk of her car was a good idea. Bye Guys...Have fun!

Tents of Hope

2008-12-15T14:17:00.001-05:00

Back in November, I headed to DC with a friend of mine and her daughter to go see her sister. They were in town for Tents of Hope. This project is dedicated to raising awareness for the suffering in Darfur. The tents were purchased or donated and then painted by the various organizations to be sent to the refugees. To spark attention there was a Gathering of the Tents on the Mall in DC over that weekend. They were really truly amazing to see. Absolutely beautiful.

We Are Still Here

2008-12-11T12:38:00.002-05:00

Nothing really new to discuss. Still going to court. Still driving me nuts. We lost our camera. The shutter broke, so there are no new pictures either. Of course it would happen right around the holidays. We hope to replace it soon. We do have some Thanksgiving pictures that will be posted eventually. Other than that...nothing to report.

Sweet Memory Lane

2008-12-02T06:13:00.003-05:00

Do you remember when? Here are the rules...

1. As a comment in my blog, leave a memory that you and I had together. It does not matter if you know me a little or a lot, anything that you remember. If we are only blogging friends or if you're a blog hopper who happens upon my blog regularly...leave a comment. There must be a reason you keep stopping by. Say something! If you don't have a blog or don't know how to sign in, sign up for an account.

2. Next, repost these instructions on your blog (if you have one) and see how many people leave a memory about you. It is actually pretty fun to see the responses. If you leave a memory about me, I will be sure to write one about you. (Stolen from multiple friends)

Ocean View Fun--Update

2008-11-07T11:18:00.002-05:00

Well, so court was yesterday...The hearing was for determination of charging him as an adult. He is a ninth grader...yeah. Anyway, the proceedings were continued until December 8th. They will then decide if he will be tried as an adult. He has two charges against him, both felonies...grand larceny and hit and run. So we will see how things go. I have court for the other one on December 3.

Ocean View Fun

2008-10-27T11:20:00.002-05:00

Well, as most of you know, if you read Facebook, my car was stolen out of the driveway a few weeks ago. It was taken, involved in a high speed chase and totaled when driven into the side of a house. It has been fun times around here to say the least. I have been without my car for about two weeks. I have been driving Lamar's truck. It is a six speed transmission diesel. Again...fun times. I start all my court dates next week. I begin with the juvenile on November 6th, and then with the adult at a later time. Can't wait....
I pick up my new car this weekend from Fairey. I was given a really good deal on a 2005 Tahoe. Same options as my Suburban with a few more bells to it actually. I will keep you posted on the court sessions:)

First Haircut

2008-10-27T11:11:00.002-05:00

We took Walter for his first haircut this past weekend. He did well. Mom...not so much. He sat in Daddy's lap at the barbershop on base with a sucker. I have a few pictures now. I will post the ones of the new do later. He also got shoes. It was a busy weekend:)

Happy Birthday Grace!

2008-09-25T19:15:00.003-05:00

Grace turned four today. Wow. I can't believe that I am the mom of a preschooler! Next year kindergarten. Anyway...we had two small celebrations today. Candles in the breakfast with a song from Mom and Dad, and cake at school. We were going to have the "Friend" party this weekend, but due to the tropical low off the coast (CAN YOU SAY MESSY!!) we are postponing until next weekend. We will still do the family party this Sunday with our surrogate Norfolk family.

Happy Birthday Princess Queen!! We love you more than ever!!

Artist In Resident

2008-09-22T12:25:00.002-05:00

Grace has really gotten into art lately. She loves to paint and draw. Playdough is lots of fun as well. Her drawings of people now have heads, bodies, legs, and arms. For those not in the early education field, this is a BIG deal! This is an example of the Playdough Art done at the island in the kitchen a few days ago.

Bliss

2008-09-22T12:22:00.001-05:00

How often does this really happen with all of you that have children???

On The Move

2008-09-20T20:01:00.002-05:00

Walter is walking. Last night he took four steps across the living room to Pop. Tonight he kept walking back and forth to me and Lamar in the living room. Good thing we have the gate. He gets SO excited with himself. He grins and screeches and walks. Then he falls and claps.

Happy Birthday Baby Walter

2008-09-05T15:36:00.003-05:00

Happy Birthday. Walter is one year old today. He was born at 6:19PM, so he has about two hours until his actual birth moment. I was telling Lamar this morning that it does not seem like he is a year old, but on the other hand, I can't remember our lives without him. He is such a joyful baby. Always laughing, giving hugs, and excited to see his mom and dad. He is in love with his big sister and follows her around everywhere she goes. He is still pulling up and cruising. He will stand on his own for a few seconds but hits the ground once he realizes that he is doing it. He is such a special boy and we love him very much.

HAPPY 1st BIRTHDAY BABY TYLER WILLIAM ON THE PHONE!!!

Moving on Up!

2008-08-27T05:48:00.002-05:00

Well, it is official. Grace got her walking paper (moving letter) to the Orange Team. For those uneducated in the VA preschool system...this means K4. She will officially move on Tuesday, September 2. The cut off for kindergarten in VA is 5 by September 30, so she will go next year. We will apply for the all city magnet school and also try for out of district near Children's Harbor. She is very excited. According to her she will learn to "write colors." Meaning, she will learn to spell the names of colors, along with MANY other important events. There is a state curriculum for 4 year olds that the schools follow. We will be able to following along at home with it. She is already interested in reading. Before we know it, this year will be gone and it will be off to K5.

Lunch and Learning

2008-08-26T12:59:00.003-05:00

Pictures of Grace and Daddy working on the children's menu at "The Eating Place" on Sunday before lunch arrived...

Tripping with Brother

2008-08-26T11:22:00.003-05:00

Lamar got the jeep out of the garage. We had BIG fun at our house this weekend. I strapped Walter in, just to see his reaction. He ended up riding with Grace for about 20 minutes. Grace is an excellent driver and only hit the tree once. Walter had an absolute ball. I am so glad that they get along...for now:)

Mekiyah's Birthday Party

2008-08-26T11:20:00.001-05:00

Grace went to Mekiyah's birthday party at the skating rink. Would you believe that my little daredevil decided that she wanted to skate. Lamar walked around the rink and held her hand. She wanted him to let go. Looks like we have a skater on our hands.

Yummy Fries!

2008-08-25T14:12:00.004-05:00

Hey look! I have two french fries.

Wait!!! You mean BOTH of these are for me??!!
I have two fries. I have two fries. YESSS!! I have two fries!!

Okay. For all of your that are going to yell at me for giving the eleven month old french fries, please keep in mind that he cannot have any milk products. This means ice cream, yogurt, cheese, etc. So, he gets french fries. So sue me!

All About the Shoes

2008-07-28T16:09:00.002-05:00

These days with Grace it really is all about the shoes! Shoes are the first thing that she recognizes these days. When we were shopping with Diane and Rachel in Surfside Beach, Grace was trying on shoes in the shoe department. These are the two pair that she chose. She really liked the black patent leather Jessica Simpson Four inch stilletos. We had to promise to go and find her some shoes of her own. She really loves shoes.

Garden City 2008

2008-07-27T06:58:00.001-05:00

We are back from our annual Garden City beach trip. More information and pictures to follow....

One more set from the wedding....

2008-07-16T16:05:00.004-05:00

Here is a rare shot of Uncle Walter smiling. He pulled double duty on wedding day. Best man and as it turns out...bridesmaid. We love you Uncle Walter.

Our Front Yard

2008-07-16T15:51:00.002-05:00

As most of you know, we have moved to the Chesapeake Bay. We are right across the street from the beach...so I guess this is technically our neighbor's front yard.

More Wedding Photos

2008-07-16T15:37:00.004-05:00

These are more photos of the wedding festivities. Please pay close attention to the wedding cake. Walter did attend the wedding, but he was recovering from a bout of pneumonia. He remained on the porch with Grammy and Pop to enjoy the festivities.

America's Next Top Model

2008-07-14T12:41:00.002-05:00

Grace is definitely in the throes of preschooldom. She has discovered her skills, interests, and temper. She has a new "model walk" and pose that she spends hours perfecting each evening. She has some friends at school that watch the top model show and she is imitating them. She will start PreK this fall and move onto kindergarten next September. I can't believe how the time has flown.

Our New House

2008-07-14T12:33:00.004-05:00

Come and visit. We are right across the street from the bay.

News of Walter

2008-07-14T12:28:00.004-05:00

Walter is cruising, pulling up, and clinging. He is going through the mommy phase. He loves tomatoes and artichokes. He will eat anything that you give him and not stop until it is gone. He loves to watch his sister and play with balls. He has started to say uh oh, da-da, mama, and shake his head no. What a busy boy will have on our hands.

Hanging out at Home

2008-07-14T12:21:00.002-05:00

This is bed time at our house.

Congratulations

2008-07-14T12:19:00.007-05:00

Congratulations to Dad and Janet who married on June 21st. Grace was the flower girl and Austin was the ring bearer. Lamar took some wonderful photos, which I will post some of later. Grace skipped all the way down the aisle and dumped her flower petals at Dad's feet. Well, she is a novice flower girl.

We are so happy for the two of you....and Janet...there is no way out now:):)

SLACK,SLACK,SLACK

2008-07-14T12:17:00.000-05:00

It has come to my attention that I have turned into a blog slacker. Between moving, weddings, beach trips, toddlers, infants, and work, I have really dropped off. When your father is yelling at you to start posting, it is time:):):)

Love you Dad:)

Moving Still....One Day

2008-06-09T06:15:00.002-05:00

Incidentally, we are still planning to move. We have not closed on the house yet. It is not ready. We did the "final" walk through the other day and the hot and cold are backwards on all of the showers...yeah, big deal with two children at home. There are a few other things that need to be done as well. Hopefully it will be this week. It was too HOT to move anyhow. Supposed to be 101 today. It is not even summer yet!!! And this is NOT South Carolina:) Anyhow, I promise to post pictures when we move. Particularly of the view. It is a knock out. You can see the bay from all of the windows. I know that we are going to love it there.

Nine Month Well Baby

2008-06-09T06:12:00.003-05:00

We went for Walter's nine month well baby check up last week. He is doing "beautifully," stated the doctor. He is off the antacid, but still on the specialty formula. He is doing everything that he should be doing and even some things that he shouldn't. I had to drop the crib last night, because his new thing is pulling up and trying to flip over. He did this into the bathtub the other day, diaper and all, while Grace was in the bath and I was drying my hair.

Nine Month Stats:

Weight 20 lbs 11 oz (95 %tile)

Height 27 inches (25 %tile)

Head Circumference 48 cm (99 %tile)

Blog Slacker

2008-06-02T13:14:00.001-05:00

It is slowly updating. Sorry for the delay!!

Memorial Day

2008-06-02T12:47:00.004-05:00

We had several friends and their children over for the Memorial Day holiday. We had LOTS of food. Homemade ice cream, watermelon, ribs, hamburgers, hot dogs...the works!! We set the sprinkler up for the older kids (William, Tyler, and Grace.) Olivia and Walter played outside. Walter decided that watermelon and ketchup were wonderful things. He crawled in Grace's plate, ate the watermelon and ketchup, and then crawled through the dirt. Walter went straight from the outdoors to the kitchen sink, which proceded to turn black with the dirt. He had a great time.

Ocean View Carnival

2008-06-02T12:43:00.004-05:00

We went to the Ocean View Carnival with Lindsay and Nana Sue. Grace rode lots of rides and LOVED the big slide. She is so light. She probably would have launched into cyberspace as fast as it was running. Anyway we had fun. Grace and Lindsay rode. Walter ate. It was a typical time for the Hardy Family.

Auntie Lindsay's House

2008-06-02T12:29:00.003-05:00

This is Auntie Lindsay. Her mother is my boss at work and the kids "Nana Sue." When Grace, Walter and Lindsay are walking with Lamar, they look like a little family, with me as the odd man out. It is amazing, considering that Lindsay is only 15.

Oreo Cookies

2008-06-02T12:28:00.004-05:00

Walter is such a "special needs" baby when it comes to the foods that he can eat. No ice cream, yogurt, milk, cheese...nothing. What a sad existence! Well, considering that he could not have any yummy desserts, I decided to give him oreos. Yes, I know that they have milk in them, but who could resist this face??

Styling in Daddy's Glasses

2008-06-02T12:27:00.004-05:00

Here we are waiting for Lamar to get the mulch and pavers for the front yard. Never leave a three year old unattended.

Playing at the Park

2008-06-02T12:26:00.001-05:00

Fariss Family Honey

2008-04-10T05:19:00.002-05:00

This is my aunt's website. She and her husband have been harvesting honey from bee hives, since they married years ago. They make some wonderful stuff!! In addition to, well, honey, they make candles, lip gloss, and other things. Greg also volunteers by running a beginners beekeeper class where they live in North Carolina. It is my understanding that they are always full in rapid time. If you are interested in anything that they make, contact Susan on the information page. Check them out!!

www.peacefulvalleyhoney.com

On there you can see my cousins Courtney, Kristen, and Jordan, as well as Courtney's beautiful family:)

First Ear Infection

2008-04-09T20:37:00.002-05:00

The title says it all. Walter has his first ear infection. We are on pink bubble gum medicine (amoxicillin.) I am pretty sure that I took a truckload of this stuff when I was little. I do know that an ear infection is like a rite of passage into childhood. Grace did not have her first until 11 months old. Lamar was gone then too:) At least we are LOVING the flavor of the pink bubble gum. Nine more days of it to go.

Happy Birthday Daddy!

2008-04-03T11:23:00.001-05:00

Happy Birthday to Lamar. He is 29 years old today. We are sorry that you are not with us to celebrate. We will have cake when you return. We love you!!!

Date Set!

2008-04-02T05:50:00.000-05:00

Dad and Janet have set the date. More info to follow soon!

Great Job Brother!!

2008-04-02T05:48:00.001-05:00

Walter slept...and slept and slept last night. 8:30 PM-6:15 AM. OH MY GOODNESS. Now that I opened my big mouth, that will stop.

He is also officially sitting up on his own. He is getting so big so fast.

Special Boy

2008-04-02T05:43:00.004-05:00

Walter and I attended his gastric specialist appointment on the Monday after Easter, with the greatly needed help from Lindsay. After the exam, he determined that Walter is suffering from a milk protein allergy. We also have to eliminate soy and whey from his diet as well. Dr. Tuft did say that MOST babies grow out of it by the first year. Here is hoping right. He is currently on a prescription only formula...amino acid based. How scrumptious does that sound?? And how expensive? Thank goodness for our Tricare insurance. I thought that I would NEVER say that, but it covered all of the cost. So, it actually turns out to be the cheapest formula that I can buy.

On a shocking note, Walter gained almost two pounds in three weeks. He weighed in at 18 pounds 12 ounces. He is still 26 inches long. GOOD GRIEF KIDDO!!

Six Month Appointment

2008-03-12T19:24:00.002-05:00

Well, we went to the doctor for our six month appointment for Walter. Although he is still NOT a sleeper, (he was up every 45 minutes the night before the appointment) he is growing very well. The doctor said that he looks great. We did get a referral for the Gastroenterologist. We are hoping to get to the bottom of the screaming at night and waking often. We did stop nursing when I got the flu about three weeks ago, so that might be part of it, but the sleeping problems did begin before that.

Six Month Stats

Height 25 inches (35th percentile)

Weight 17 pounds even (50th percentile) Really!??! He seems so much heavier

Head 43 centimeters (80th percentile) still a SMART boy

He is rolling over both ways and trying to sit up on his own. I can't believe how time has flown. Lamar is TAD in Panama City again, so hopefully I will get a chance to update for a while. Grace has gone to SC for an extended visit. I will either catch up on sleep or get my house clean...only if Walter cooperates.

More Congratulations!

2008-02-15T06:49:00.004-05:00

Congratulations to my cousin, Courtney Baldwin, and her husband Steven and their son Nate on the birth of their second child/first brother.

Silas Cole Baldwin was born yesterday, Valentine's Day, at 2:08 PM. He weighed 6 pounds 8.7 ounces.

He is beautiful guys.

Congratulations

2008-02-12T06:54:00.000-05:00

Congrats to Ashley, Brad, and Grayson Cuttino on the birth of Anna Parker Cuttino. She is beautiful. And two...well, it is LOTS of fun! Good luck guys.

Tooth #2

2008-02-04T21:13:00.001-05:00

Tooth #2 came in today! At this rate, he will need to see the dentist by one year old.

Accident #2

2008-01-30T07:09:00.000-05:00

I got the dreaded phone call from school yesterday. On the other end was Grace's teacher telling me that it was an emergency!! Grace had been dancing on the rug, fell and busted her chin open.

"Does it need stitches, Ms. Tiki?"

"Yes, it does."

"How big is the cut, Ms. Tiki?"

"Big!"

So, off I run to school. When I got there Grace had a steri-strip on it. It is about an inch long, but since the steri was holding it closed, I really doubt that the doctors would remove it for stitching. Nana Su met me at school, and it was our determination to leave it alone and covered with the steri's until it heals. You can't see it unless you look underneath her head. Poor kid, she went two years with NOTHING, and then we had the eye and the chin in less than a year. It would figure....Lamar is gone:)

Oh, and she locked herself in her room on Sunday. I went up to get her and she was shut up tight. My doorknobs are as old as my house (c. 1953) so there is no way to pop the lock from the outside. I told her to hold on and I was going to go across the street to get Mr. Kris. Well, I forgot that Mr. Kris is deployed too! So Nadine and Tyler came over for Operation Grace Removal. Tyler was talking to her from the other side of the door while we worked. I finally just took the knob off. Of course, now I can't get it back on. She was fine...not worried at all. When we took it off and finally got in, she was playing happily in her room. When I asked her how it happened, she said that her daddy locked her in.

TOOTH

2008-01-27T21:15:00.004-05:00

Walter's first tooth broke through today. He has pretty much given up sleeping through the night lately. For the past several weeks, he has been getting up every couple of hours. It culminated on Thursday night with every five minutes! We went to the doctor and she upped his Zantac. Well, the tooth broke through sometime last night, so here's to hoping that was part of the problem!

Sleep Brother Sleep!!

Oh. And he now weighs 15 lbs 11 oz.

Big Boy!!

4 month stats

2008-01-27T21:15:00.003-05:00

Walter had his four month check up on January 8th. He received all of his shots, except for the HIB, which is still recalled. The doctor said that he looks GREAT. Everything is right on track. I can't believe how time is flying by. In no time, he will be walking and talking.

Weight 15 lbs, 2 oz

Length 24 inches

Head 41 centimeters

He is 45th percentile in weight and length and 80th in head circumference.

Still breastfeeding. We did start cereal do to the reflux. He is still loving it.

Ho Ho Ho!!

2008-01-27T21:15:00.001-05:00

Here are some photos of Christmas in SC. This is the time of year that my blogging seems to take a nose dive. Anyhow, these are some of the shots. More will be added later. By this weekend...or as soon as I download them from the camera:) The ones of Grace are on our camera. These came from Dad.

Yummy to my Tummy!!!!

2007-12-19T21:31:00.000-05:00

Baby Walter had his first taste of brown rice cereal tonight. I could not get it in his mouth fast enough. For the past week, he has been waking up at night again...every two to three hours...Um, yeah...WHAT!! It was killing me. When he was waking up, he was eating. Eating a full meal. Anyway, we gave the very watery breastmilk/cereal combo a shot tonight. We will see if it helps things.

Baby Addison Kate Norris

2007-12-18T10:05:00.001-05:00

Baby Addison was born on Friday, December 14th, 2007. She arrived at 5:40 PM. She weighed 7 pounds, 13 ounces and was 20 inches long. All reports are that Mom and Baby are doing great. No one talks about Dad:). Welcome to the world Baby Addison. And to Craig and Nancy...strap in for the ride of you lives:)

New Baby Countdown

2007-12-14T07:06:00.000-05:00

Craig and Nancy went in at 6:00 PM last night to begin the lovely induction process. They should have Baby Addison sometime today. What a wonderful Christmas present. Keep us posted when you can! Good luck and Speedy Induction!!!

Round and Round and Round

2007-12-10T07:17:00.001-05:00

Grace also rode the carousel on Sunday. It almost put her to sleep with her no nap self:)

The Ruby Red Slipper

2007-12-10T07:15:00.001-05:00

Finally got a picture of the infamous slippers. She actually looks like a house was dropped on her in this picture.

The Build A Bear Workshop

2007-12-10T07:07:00.000-05:00

If you have never been, you have to go. The Build a Bear is a stuffed animal store where you go and pick out your flat animal, stuff it, dress it, name it and take it home. Kids LOVE it. One opened in Myrtle Beach when I was in college, and the line wrapped around the building in the summer time. Nana Su and Lindsay took Grace yesterday for Christmas. She had a ball. She picked out the pink bear, dressed her in a Cinderella dress, and wait for it.....

RUBY RED SLIPPERS!!! The bear's name is Lisa. Not sure where that came from? Anyway she loved the trip. Then we went home to Nana Su's for Hanukkah. Please notice my lack of multiculturalism awareness when looking at Grace's attire for the evening. I am totally losing it!!

Christmas Card Attempts

2007-12-09T20:04:00.000-05:00

Well, I have pretty much accepted the fact that I will not be getting the two of my children to smile and be happy for a picture at the same time this year for a Christmas picture to add to our Christmas cards. We sure did have alot of fun trying. Maybe another day.

2007-12-09T19:41:00.000-05:00

True Peace on Earth. May God bless us all.

My very own Frosty the Snowman

2007-12-09T19:39:00.000-05:00

He is going to KILL me one day!!!!

Children's Christmas Party

2007-12-09T19:38:00.000-05:00

Saturday, December 8th was the Children's Christmas Party. It is thrown by all of the officer's wives and held in the hangar. We get bouncers, have cotton candy, bubble wrap, games, gifts, prizes, etc. The highlight is Santa's arrival. He does not come by reindeer. He arrives in a 60 sierra, or more commonly known as a helicopter. The kids love it. They all get to sit on Santa's lap and ask him for their Christmas gifts. Then they jack up on sugar and come home and crash. Grace claimed that she planned to take the helicopter to the zoo, but we could not accompany her. Here are several shots to sum up the day. The only thing missing was Daddy...

Baby News??

2007-12-08T07:43:00.000-05:00

NO NOT ME...Are you KIDDING!!!!!!

We are anxiously awaiting news of Grace's new...I guess it would be God-sibling??

Grace's Godfather, Craig, and his wife, Nancy are imminently expecting the birth of their first child, Addison Kate, any day! She is actually due tomorrow, December 9th. We are crossing our fingers for you, Miss Nancy, that you have a speedy, safe delivery (not quite as fast as Brothers:) and LOTS of GREAT drugs!

Keep us posted!!

O Tannenbaum, O Tannenbaum

2007-12-08T07:40:00.000-05:00

The tree is up. We put it up before Lamar left for Panama City. He and I have philosophical differences on the color of the lights for the tree. I grew up with white, he insists on color. See who won:) Grace also has Santa lights in her room. She is ready for Christmas.

Sleeping

2007-12-08T07:37:00.000-05:00

We have a "sleeper through the night!" For the last two nights, I have put Walter down at 8:30 PM, and he has slept until 6:00 AM straight. I am so excited, I can hardly contain myself. Since he was born, I have been going to bed when he does to get some rest. Needless to say, my house has turned into a disaster. I have not had a real night's sleep since about five months pregnant. For the past two nights, I have slept seven hours straight. I even get some ME time in the morning before they all wake up. It is amazing what excites a mother of two small children.

Dorothy

2007-12-08T07:34:00.000-05:00

Grace is now into The Wizard of Oz. We went out and got her a pair of ruby red slippers. She wears them with EVERYTHING. She told her Nana Su that she needs the blue dress to go with them. She also told me that I could not wear them or take them from her because I was the Wicked Witch...but my face is not green....

Just wait. Before I leave work one day, I am going to the paint closet and paint my face green. Then I am going to go pick her up from school...

Gotta Love The Navy

2007-12-08T07:25:00.000-05:00

Well...Lamar is gone...again.

He is cruising Panama City for cute Spring Breakers:)

HA..HA.. No, actually he is down in Panama City towing. Is it fun, you may ask? Well, not according to him. He will be down there until Christmas, will come home for Santa, and then go back to tow until February. Life here with two alone is FUN!! Grace has become slightly whiny lately. She gets EXASPERATED with Brother, telling him that he needs to learn to wait his turn. My question...when is MY turn??

Anyway, drop us a line or an email. I probably won't answer it, because I am here with two, but at least you will have tried:)

Turkey Day Excitement

2007-12-08T07:10:00.000-05:00

Well, it was another wonderful turkey day down on the farm. We had approximately 45 people join us this year. The weather was perfect, the food was wonderful, and the company was alright too:) If you left hungry, it was your own fault. If you did not attend, we hope that you will join us next year for the festivities.

Citadel Cheerleader

2007-12-08T07:09:00.000-05:00

Lamar took Grace to the Citadel/VMI game in November. The Citadel BLEW VMI away. Grace was the HIT of the game. She was apparently a very good companion in the car going up and back. She is going to be a football girl like her mom and dad.

Two Month Stats

2007-11-08T07:15:00.000-05:00

Brother had his two month appointment yesterday. He is doing really well, except he was diagnosed with reflux. You should have been at our house for the crying FITS. Not fun!! He also got three shots :( and the oral rotavirus vaccine. Loved that one! He is doing everything that he should and even a few that he should not. He even slept last night!!!! He went down at 9 and slept until 2! Yes I was the mom that dashed out of the bed and went in and checked on him. He ate at 2 and went back down until 6! I was SO excited. Probably from the shots! Here's hoping to another night of sleep tonight!

Weight 12 lbs 6.8 oz (and not from formula!! YEA!!!) 75th percentile
Head 41.5 centimeters 75th percentile (He is going to be smart!!)
Length 23 inches 50th percentile (And short!!!)

Back to the Grind

2007-11-01T16:57:00.000-05:00

Well, it is official. I return to work on Monday. I have run out of excuses, and the doctor has said, go already! She actually said that all looks good, and she is done with me. I know that my assistant is ready! Thank you, Karen, for holding down the fort all alone. I know that you did a WONDERFUL job. Baby Walter will be returning with me until there is a space available at Grace's center in December or so. He will be completely rotten with all of the ladies that work for me! Ready or not...here we come!!

Halloween

2007-10-31T15:15:00.001-05:00

Happy Halloween!!!

Walter's First Official Photo Shoot

2007-10-31T15:10:00.000-05:00

Well, I got nothing done that I set out to do today. I took Walter to get his pictures done instead. Completely on a whim. He was dressed for Halloween so I figured, why not, right?

Grace has her school pictures tomorrow. I figured since she takes those alone that Brother should get a set too. Now, tomorrow, I will go to the cleaners, return the shirt that does not fit, and return the expired tea that the commisary sold to me...

Happy Birthday PawPaw

2007-10-30T18:36:00.000-05:00

Happy Birthday PawPaw. We hope that you had a wonderful day!!! And we will keep your age to ourselves...

58

Ooops!

Gross Anatomy

2007-10-30T18:10:00.000-05:00

Lamar has been studying to further his education in certain areas recently. He is brushing up on his biology and anatomy to keep his options open. Right now he is concentrating on the human body. He was upstairs with Grace reviewing the parts of the body with her last night. He asked her to show him her radius, ulna, and humerous bones. She complied. He asked her if she had a pancreas. She said yes. He asked her if he had one. She replied emphatically no. He said that he did and they battled back and forth. He finally asked her why he did not have one. She told him that his was a blucreas because he is a boy. Blue=Blucreas. Pink=Pancreas. Girls vs. Boys. I guess that it starts REALLY early...

oh...

And Brother can now roll from his stomach to back on the other side. That boy will do ANYTHING to get out of tummy time:)

Child Prodigy??

2007-10-27T19:15:00.000-05:00

Do we have a genius in the making? Baby Walter rolled over today. A fluke you might say at seven weeks. Well, what do you say to three separate times at three different times today. The first time was the morning while he was upstairs with Grace and Daddy. The second time was a little later for my benefit, while we were all upstairs. The third time was tonight during tummy time on his playmat. Lamar told him when he rolled over he could get off the floor. So, he went flip. We are tummy to backing it right now. Great job Brother!!

The Messy House

2007-10-24T07:14:00.000-05:00

Lamar and Jeff took on a rather large project this spring/summer. They decided to buy and flip a house. Naturally, there are no before pictures, but they did take some great afters. It is listed here in Norfolk with a realty, but also on militarybyowner.com. Take a look...they are available for hire for projects. Just call me.

www.militarybyowner.com/listings/tourplus.asp?F_BASE_ID=247&F_STATE=VA&LISTING_ID=53029

Address Change

2007-10-24T07:12:00.000-05:00

Lamar's website address has changed. Thank you, Bec, for pointing out that I have not fixed it. Lamar told me to and I naturally forgot.

http://web.mac.com/curtis.hardy/Walter_Robert/Homepage.html

Caught Up!

2007-10-23T14:56:00.000-05:00

Yea!!! I am caught up! I can't believe it! It is unbelievable! Let's see how long it lasts. Be sure to scroll down past the FINALLY post. Pictures have been added before Walter was born!!