The Growing Gant Family...

Jan. 21st, 2012 Bit 'o Brotherly love

2012-01-21T11:12:00.000-08:00

I happened to catch a few videos of William interacting with his little brother. You can see a bit of how much he adores him...
(I had to chunk up the video into three parts)

He loves to hold Calvin and help burp him...

William knows that Calvin drinks milk, and milk only. The other day, as Curtis poured William a bowl of cereal, he asked him if he wanted milk on it...
W: "No, Dad."
C: "You don't want milk on your cereal? Why not?"
W: "Milk is for babies Dad."
He then had to explain that we drink cow's milk and Calvin drinks Mama's milk.

Here he is sharing one of our singing Christmas cards with Calvin (Thank you Wayne & Sherri-William's still carrying the card around!). He claims Calvin started dancing to the music at the end (o:

Then they had some hang out time on the floor after I changed Calvin's diaper...

William is such a big helper. When Calvin starts crying, he will often go over and start talking to him to help calm him down. Calvin knows his brothers voice and is often soothed when he hears him. Here they are having a chit chat while Calvin is swinging...

Jan. 18th, 2012 Swingin' Babies

2012-01-18T12:45:00.000-08:00

Here's a look into the past...

William: April 13th, 2009
2 months 5 days

Calvin: January 18th, 2012
2 months 10 days

Jan. 12th, 2012 Potty Training

2012-01-12T16:47:00.000-08:00

We've been working with William on potty training. We started seriously thinking about it this past Summer, when he could run around naked outside and watch himself pee (in the grass and not all over the house!). He caught on pretty quickly (to the peeing part that is) and had fun picking different objects to pee on (trees, rocks, leaves...fortunately not the dogs). Then, I decided we weren't gonna push the issue until after brother was born. I'd heard all kinds of people tell me that he would likely just regress, so I figured we'd at least introduce the whole concept and pick back up after Calvin was born.

Sportin' the birthday suit while we practiced outside...I'm sure the pool had plenty of pee in it too.

We told William that babies like Calvin wore diapers and that he wasn't a baby anymore. I guess this is where big boys wear their diapers...And for some reason I can't find this picture of this one for the life of me (one of William wearing a diaper on his head)! It was a good one too )o: If I find it, I'm re-posting it here.

It's gotten a little interesting since Calvin arrived. The frantic run to the bathroom often happens when I'm feeding Calvin, which creates a bit of an inconvenience when I need both hands to help William get his pants down in time.

Needless to say, I "wear" little brother A LOT. Here we are, multitasking while we wait for the big poo...Sometimes he gets so caught up in me reading Curious George to him while we wait that he forgets why we're there in the first place.

Calvin, you getting this? You're up next. Potty trained by 18 months?!?

Funny side note: We did actually get some results (poo in the potty, oh yeah!), which then led to some crazy dancing (yes, I'm sure I looked crazily goofy, but William loved it), lots of hip hip hoorays, high fives and a handful of jelly beans (after wiping and washing our hands of course). I was overly joyed, to say the least (any mom who's been there can share in this excitement). But results weren't achieved until after we had sat on and got off the toilet around 20 times. This led to William's bottom sticking to his toilet seat when he would get off which he explained started to hurt him. At about try #19, this was his request:

"Mama, kiss it?" As he bends over in front of me.

I laughed, which of course led to him laughing too. But he was serious. Doesn't Mom's kiss on all my ouchies make them better? I told him this was one exception (o:

Oh, the joys...

I've learned one thing: You can't push the idea. You can introduce it, provide all the rewards in the world, throw a party when it's a success...but it won't sink in until he's ready. He'll be 3 in a few short weeks and rest assured he won't be 10 yrs old and still working on it. There is an end in sight!

January 8th, 2012 2 months already?!

2012-01-08T08:52:00.000-08:00

Where does the time go?...I think I'll probably say that a bajillion times over in my lifetime. It never ceases to amaze me at how quickly the minutes turn into hours, the hours into days...

Our Calvin is 2 months old today. And even though he still keeps mom up most of the night (gotta keep up those chubby cheeks somehow!), I adore him.

He started cracking an ever so cute smile on the first of the year. I couldn't catch it on camera until a few days later, but Oooh how it makes me melt!

He still makes has his famous "grunt" noises and is trying ever so hard to turn them into a new form of vocal communication. You should seem him open his mouth wide and try!

He turns his head to my voice and has even turned to find William when he's around him. The most fun is when I'm changing Calvin on the changing table and William is behind him on his bed bouncing around. Calvin cranks his neck back to to find his jumping bean brother and it's so incredibly cute (o:

He's proving to be the "big" little brother at this point. He's gained a whoppin' 7lbs since we left the hospital just two short months ago.
Here's the stats:

Weight for age= just over 14lb & 92nd percentile (William at 2 months= just over 11lb & 43rd percentile)
*I must add that Calvin was only at the 41st percentile at 13 days old...

Length for age= 57.5cm...not sure how that translates to inches... &45th percentile (William at 2 months= 59cm & 62nd percentile)

And this one is purely for Grandpa Greg...Recognize this shirt Grandpa?

Dec. 25th, 2011 Merry Christmas!!

2011-12-25T08:50:00.000-08:00

Calvin's first Christmas!

Not that he really "enjoyed" it at all, he just got passed around between family members...

Uncle Cory.

Auntie Lori.

And here he is doing what he does best...eating (o:

William had fun opening his gifts. "Look Dad, CANDY!!!"

Okay, so maybe William didn't enjoy it ALL...Not sure what happened at this moment. I think we told him he had to wait to eat his candy.

Lots of cousin time...

Overall, a very Merry Christmas! Oh, how I love all my boys...

Dec. 20th, 2011 His sweet face...

2011-12-20T12:59:00.000-08:00

What's there not to love about a sweet face like this?...

Dec, 14th, 2011 Christmas Decorations

2011-12-14T00:39:00.000-08:00

Decorating for Christmas...

I've made a tradition of taking a picture of William wrapped up in the Christmas lights as we decorate the William...I mean the tree!

Look Mom! My ears and nose are glowing!

And now for a glowing headband...

Featuring...the glowing Brother! (William really liked this one)

Calvin, all snuggled next to Mom while William strings the lights...wait, William's stringing lights by himself?!?!

He had no idea...Too engrossed in the decorating. I'm sure I'll pay for this one later.

Dec. 12th, 2011 Famous "Williamisms"

2011-12-12T22:58:00.000-08:00

Now that our little William isn't so "little" anymore, he entertains us with his ever growing vocabulary. Most of the time, you don't have to wonder what he's thinking. And just when you think he doesn't get it or isn't listening, you're suprised and caught off guard at the next thing he says. Here's some of the latest William sayings...

While buckled in his car seat, Curtis pulled the car up to our doctor's office to pick me up after our apt.. Randomly, Curtis and Grandpa (in the car as well) tell me that William, all on his own while watching me walk towards the car, said "Mama is so cute." Don't think I'm forgetting that one anytime soon...Now, if he keeps telling ME this and not all the cute little girls he's around... (o:

I positioned William so that he would be able to see our Christmas lights come on when I went and plugged them in. As soon as they came on, he comments "Woooah!! That's so cool!" (First time something's been "cool")...I laughed at his sweetness.

Just recently we flew down to California to be with my family as they celebrated the life of my Uncle Curtis who died in a motorcycle accident. William was perplexed by the conversation as he knew his Daddy's name was Curtis too. After we straightened it out in his mind that Daddy hadn't died and it was Mommy's Uncle Curtis, he asks me "Mama, Uncle Curtis happy?" "Yes, William Uncle Curtis is happy now because he's in heaven." He just sat there with the most content smile on his face...I don't know how many times since then he's told me that Uncle Curtis is happy because he's in heaven...

Lately, when I'm trying to be consistent in my disciplining, William has made it extremely difficult to not just bust out laughing. If he senses the slightest bit of frustration on my part he'll ask me "Mama, you happy?!" (mind you, with a tone that's all giddy and excited)...I have to try REALLY hard to tell him that I'm not happy without cracking a smile because he's so stinkin' cute at that moment. And sometimes, I don't succeed and we both end up giggling uncontrollably. Hopefully some of my discipline proves effective (o:

When William is working on something and comes to a point where he can't do whatever he's trying to do, he started giving this little frustrated scream-all in an effort to get someone to pay attention, come over and help him. I put the kibosh on it quick. I told him that when he got frustrated he needed, instead of screaming, ask Mama or Daddy for help. So, what do I hear the next time he gets frustrated?..."Mama!!! I need help!"...followed by the scream. I guess we'll chalk it up to the fact that he's learning (o:

And here he is...the great big brother that he is.

Now, just wait till I type up a blog post on our recent ventures in potty training!

Dec. 10th, 2011 Calvin's Namesake

2011-12-10T16:45:00.000-08:00

While pregnant, and after finding out we were adding another Mr. to our family, we were stretched to find a name for our second little guy. William is named after my Grandpa William who, unfortunately, lost his battle with cancer just a few years before he got to meet his first great-grandson. After that, we couldn't just pull our 2nd boy's name out of a book!

Curtis and I are striving as parents to raise our children to know the Lord; to have a faith that reflects a personal relationship with Christ. My Grandpa was a spiritual patriarch in my family. I asked Curtis to think of some men in his life that strongly influenced him and his faith. He mentioned Cal Thayer. We threw around the name, midst others, and then eventually came back to it. Cal was a part of Curtis' church growing up and died just shortly after we got married. Our decision was made-Calvin would be his name.

Although I never met Cal, I was fortunate enough to have attended the memorial service that was held to celebrate his life. After Calvin was born, we wanted to honor Calvin Thayer by meeting up with his wife Betty who is doing well and living in Eugene. Here's a picture of this sweet woman and our Calvin...as she got tears in her eyes while holding him.

P.S. Calvin's middle name (Markis) derived from my dad's middle name (Gregory Mark) and the ending of Curtis' name. Little did Auntie Lori know that her creativity (she came up with the name and suggested it before we had decided on a middle name for Calvin) would result in the completion of his name!

P.S.S. We later found out that Curtis had a great grandpa named Calvin Gant...double bonus for the name pick (o;

P.S.S.S. (if there is such a thing!) We also found out after our visit with Betty, that she has twin great grandchildren...3 year olds, named William & Calvin.

Dec. 10th, 2011 Meeting Dalen

2011-12-10T00:37:00.000-08:00

Here they were in the belly's... 10/15/11

Here they are out of the belly's (o:
Dalen (born 10/21/11) and Calvin (born 11/8/11)

It was so good to finally meet little Dalen Charpie (6 wks old). Who would've thought, as friends in high school, that we would stay in touch and have little boys so close in age? Thanks for stopping by to visit Charissa (o:

Dec. 8th, 2011 One Month Old!

2011-12-08T00:38:00.000-08:00

Where has the first month gone?...I can hardly believe Calvin's a month old already. We've got a healthy little Gant boy on our hands. With the guesstimated weights I've done on various scales (weighing myself and then picking him up and weighing myself again), he's somewhere around 12lb already! And not that I'm comparing or anything, but William didn't pass up 12lb until he was almost 3 months old. They're proving to be their own individuals!

And since I never got a picture of Calvin with his Auntie Lori on his birthday (Lori was there for my labor and Calvin's birth and so fabulously documented the entire day with photos...so SHE was never in ONE of them!), here he is at a month old being held by an Auntie that has lots of love for our little guy (o:

Dec. 5th, 2011 Remembering Uncle Curtis...

2011-12-05T00:36:00.000-08:00

My uncle Curtis (Dad's youngest brother) recently passed away in a motorcycle accident. It was a sudden death...no time to say goodbye. I decided to take the two boys down south to be with my family during this time. I didn't go for myself, although I was very thankful to have been there. I went for the joy that children can bring to tragedy. I knew that, despite the heavy emotion, William's giggle and laugh could make anyone smile. And that holding Calvin would be a reminder, despite death's inevitability, of the precious "life" we get to experience.

Auntie Hermila and Calvin

Cousin Nicholas (Curtis' eldest)

Cousins Nicholas and Sara (Curtis' 2nd eldest)

Cousins Sara and Emily (Curtis' 2nd to youngest)...I'm pretty sure William left a puddle of drool on Emily's shoulder after he woke up.

All us goofy cousins...

The Pile Family...Grandpa and Curtis together in heaven

Nov. 24th, 2011 Happy Thanksgiving

2011-11-24T00:35:00.000-08:00

Us and our two little "turkeys" (o:

(Crazy to think that Calvin's due date technically wasn't until today...)

Nov. 15th, 2011 Comparing...

2011-11-15T19:59:00.000-08:00

When I was pregnant with William, there were so many times I'd wonder whether little Calvin was going to look like William did when he was born. Even though the pictures weren't taken at exactly the same age, here's one of my favorites...Calvin, proving to be the "bigger little brother"...We'll see how it pans out as they both grow.

WILLIAM: 2/10/2009 3 days old

CALVIN: 11/15/2011 1 week old

*Even though he is a bit older in this picture, he definitely fills out the onsie a bit more!

WILLIAM...

CALVIN...

Nov. 9th, 2011 First time brotherly love...

2011-11-09T13:57:00.000-08:00

What a blessed 30th birthday this is for me. I get to share it with all three of my boys together...Curtis, William AND Calvin. We held off on William meeting Calvin the day he was born due to a puking episode William decided to have at Grandma's house after we made it to the hospital in labor...Turns out, it was likely just his nerves, but we had to be cautious. He was running around like his normal self later that day and so he got to come meet his new baby brother along with the rest of his cousins.

He wasn't too sure at first. The video we took is a little long to upload to blogger, but he clung to Curtis as he approached me and Calvin for the first time. He didn't say much and just kept asking Curtis to hold him (of which he was). Then Calvin started crying and William clung to Curtis even tighter. We got some family pics sitting on the hospital bed and I had Dad take Calvin while I held William...You can see how he's still unsure of the whole thing. He nervously reached for Curtis the whole time we were sitting there...

*notice the "Big Brother" & "Little Brother" shirts (although you can't really ready Calvin's until later) (o;

Here I think he's even pinching Curtis' forehead!

My precious family...

Here they are (minus Curtis' brother Cory who was working and couldn't be there): All the Gant boys. Between Curtis and his brother, Calvin makes up the 5th Gant cousin (o: No pink for this family!

And they're ALL boy!...(don't worry, Calvin isn't amidst this bunch...yet)

Once the cousins left and it was just William, Calvin and I sitting on the couch, he started to get interested in this new little being we were calling his baby brother. He started touching his fingers and pointing out that he had toes. He was warming up to the idea...

I just sat there with both my boys in awe. I had "children"...God has given me two sons and I am so very grateful that I can am their Mommy. Never did I imagine I'd be this blessed.

Nov. 8th, 2011 HAPPY BIRTHDAY Calvin Markis!

2011-11-08T01:12:00.000-08:00

Read at your own risk...Full labor story ahead...

At 3:30am, the exact time I woke up when my water broke before delivering William, I woke up with contractions that wouldn't go away with any position changes. I decided that I wasn't going to be able to lay there any longer and try to sleep so I got up and took a shower. William, hearing the water of the shower run next to his bedroom, woke up and started asking for me. Surprisingly, he was wide awake. I hadn't woken Curtis up at this point and waiting until I could more accurately time how far apart the contractions were (I wasn't used to labor starting this way since with William is was so clearly obvious with my water popping initially!). 5 minutes or less and getting stronger as time progressed.

William asked "Whatcha doin' Mama?"

I replied, "I think we are going to go get baby Calvin today."

He responded (with much enthusiasm), "You going to go get Baby Brudder!?!" He seemed very excited about the whole prospect...

I texted Dr. Savage (sign of the times, huh?) to let her know we'd be heading to the hospital. She informed me that she was already there (and had been for the past two days), that the birth center was busting at the seams and that we might have to deliver in the nursery! Craziness! Got to the hospital at around 6:30a and was admitted to the last available room...

Today's goal: Have a baby!

Donning the hospital booties...with a smile on my face (obviously in between contractions in this pic!)

The nurse checked me and I was already dilated to 6cm with a "bulging water sac ready to pop" as they put it...My thought process at this point was that with any further contraction my water was bound to break and speed the process along.

Not so much...

An occasional check on baby Calvin...He was holding strong while mom made it through each contraction.

I remember telling Dr. Savage (Jeanne) at 10am that we had a 1/2 hr to get this baby out...This was about the time that William was born after starting labor at 3:30am and your second labor isn't supposed to be longer, right?

Well...

10:30 came and gone. By 11:30 I was dilated to 9cm and feeling God's curse to women in childbirth: contractions that were definitely pushing me towards that 10...and making me extremely exhausted and tearful in the process. I remember someone telling me that when you've hit that point in labor when you feel like you just can't continue on; like your body has no strength left to push, you're close. I held onto that twinge of hope. I hadn't realized at this point that I had been fighting my way through each contraction; that my body was ready to push and I needed to just go with it.

Curtis, supporting me as I waded through each contraction on the birthing ball.

Finally, around 12:30p...10cm and ready to push. The thought of pushing scared me at this point. I was convinced it would make the pain with each contraction that much worse. But once I worked with the contractions, the strength that re-entered my body at that point was incredible!

At about push #2, the doctor finally broke my Kevlar (as Jeanne called it) bag of waters. Within a 1/2 hr, after some panic on my part and a little tugging help on Jeanne's end to help baby's shoulder through my pelvis, I gave every bit of strength I had left in me for one last push before Calvin Markis Gant entered this world at 1:11pm. Thank you to my incredible husband and sis-in-law Lori (who I credit all of these pictures to!) for being by my side the entire time.

I remember the first thing I thought when they handed him to me was "He's chubby! And he has so much hair!" Later we discovered that he weighed over a lb bigger than his brother William did at 7lb 10 1/2oz (William was 6lb 10oz)!!! He was 20inches long with a 13 1/2in head circumference. It all made sense to me why I was so incredibly uncomfortable towards the end!

Look at those big hands!

Any woman who has been through childbirth knows the incredible relief that follows labor...both physically and emotionally. There truly are no words within our limited scope of language to describe it. It's a kind of euphoric, surreal, out of this world experience. Only God can create a feeling that makes all of the pain and strength it takes to birth a child worth it. I'm in love once again...I have another son.

My first hairwash...

And now...FOOD!

What an incredible birthday present I received today. He came a little early, but now we each have our own special day (o: I remember praying, even before we got pregnant with Calvin and were struggling with infertility, that I had wanted to be pregnant before I turned 30. Well, we serve a God who makes us laugh sometimes. Not only was I pregnant before 30, but I had a new son in my arms just shortly before my birthday...No words could describe how thankful I am. God is good!

Nov. 5th, 2011 37 weeks 2 days

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I feel so crowded out! Here's a portrait that somewhat depicts how even just sitting there can be oh so uncomfortable in the last few weeks of pregnancy (o: Oh, but it will be all worth it, I know. We just can't wait to meet our little guy!

Nov. 3rd, 2011 37 weeks...

2011-11-03T09:46:00.000-07:00

Well, we've hit the 37 week mark...I'm officially okay with having this little guy whenever he decides to arrive (o:

I never remember feeling this way when I was pregnant with William, but it feels as though, if he really wanted to, he could pop his way into this world through my belly button! My belly is so incredibly tight (the doctor even commented on how impressed she was with it's tautness) that I feel like I'm going to rip right down the middle! There's not much room in there for him to get any bigger...We'll see how long it takes him to decide he needs more space...

Oct. 31st, 2011 Happy Halloween!

2011-10-31T21:48:00.000-07:00

On the nights Daddy is at work, William and I spend the night at Grandmas just in case baby decides to arrive (I don't want to be home alone when labor starts!). William didn't have a costume this year (I didn't want to put forth all the effort of finding something just to have him not want to wear it or being in the hospital in labor!), but he did enjoy some teeth mom got him at the store with a big sucker on the back. Talk about a slobbery mess! Of all years, William was actually in to going to the door when trick or treaters came and Grandma only had four kids come (she's used to around 20-30)! Oh well, he enjoyed trick or treating out of Grandma's candy bucket himself (o:

Here he is with his slobbery teeth!

Oct. 27th, 2011 36 weeks

2011-10-27T07:50:00.000-07:00

Earlier this week at my 36 wk OB apt....

Me: Jeanne, could you check me. I've felt a lot of pressure and muscle twinges lately and am curious if I'm dilated at all."

Dr.: "Sure. Couldn't hurt to know....(As she's checking me) Oh my goodness, there's his head! Yeah Melissa, you're a for sure 2cm dilated already!"

Me: "My goodness. I figured I had felt some things changing these past couple days, but I had no idea I'd actually be dilated already!"

Dr.: "Lay low Melissa and we'll see if we can keep him in for another week or so."

So, 2cm dilated and 50% effaced...Wasn't sure what to think of that as I left the appointment, but it sure put a little jump in my step (don't worry, not literal jumping) as far as preparing for our little guy to arrive sooner than later. Never did I think that he might be born in October vs. November! These last couple days have been spent laying low. Hospital bag is now packed and friends/family have been called to drive me to the hospital just in case Curtis happens to be at work while labor unfolds. I'm hoping to keep him nice and cozy until November hits next week. The doctor assures me that if he does decide to come earlier, he should be just fine. For the past couple months I have been measuring around 2 wks further along which means my due date (Nov. 24th) might not be as accurate as we originally thought at our first 8 wk. ultrasound.

William was imitating Curious George as we took this one... "Oooh, ah ah ah"

And, I've gotten this a lot lately, "Melissa, from behind, I'd never know you were pregnant!" Figured I'd take a picture so I could see what they were talking about.

And the front view...I have to admit that this one makes makes me hurt a little. I don't know what room this baby thinks he's going to grow in to because I feel so tight that my belly button is often sore. I wouldn't be surprised if this little guy breaks my water like William did (I'm fully convinced that William was so tight in there that he's the one who kicked open the water gates and jump started delivery!),

Guess we'll wait and see...!

Oct. 21st, 2011 The bee won this battle

2011-10-22T10:10:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was a day Grandpa Greg (Grandpa beekeeper) would've been proud of his little Mr. William...He battled it out with a bee and the bee won. Not that we're excited about bees stinging our little boy, but despite a frantic first cry, he took it like a champ! We rubbed an ice cube on his cheek and he went from droplets of water running down his cheek to licking the cube and then eventually crunching it up and eating it before asking for another one. Well, we can say it served as a distraction if anything right?

Now, trying to get a picture of it...This first one was a typical shot of me trying to get a picture of William-hand in front of his face.

And then Mom won-I finally got a face shot (with a little bribing). I thought for sure his eye was going to be swollen shut when he woke up this morning. Kinda hard to tell, but his whole cheek and eye lid are pretty puffy!

Oct. 20th, 2011 The art of canning

2011-10-20T04:27:00.000-07:00

I enjoy the process of taking what we've grown in the garden and filling my canning cupboard. This year it's become so full, I've had to venture out into my freezer space and start storing some of my applesauce there! Not only did William get to help plant the garden this year, he also became quite the Master at helping preserve it!

Here he is helping me with the apple press (recognize this lovely piece of machinery Mom?)...

And the apple peeler/slicer- he LOVES this one!

And I think he would deem this one the most fun of all the duties, testing the jam!

And we've still got a bucket of apples sitting in the kitchen to use...Here comes more apple pie filling and sauce! Gotta get it all in before "baby brudder" decides to come!

Oct. 15th, 2011 34 weeks and going strong!

2011-10-15T23:23:00.000-07:00

Jeanne ("baby doctor" as William calls her-even though she sees our entire family) assures us that we can almost guarantee to expect our 2nd bundle of joy to arrive earlier than Thanksgiving day (my due date). I keep telling people that ask when I'm due, that once Nov. 1st rolls around, I'll just shift my brain into thinking he could be here at anytime (I delivered William 2 wks early). I know- watch, I'll be late this time! It sure is crazy to think that his birthday could be right around the corner...We are very excited to meet our second little Gant boy.

Here, William is trying to "Cover baby brudder up with blankie"...Looks like he's the one being covered!

Never did get another pic where William would show his face. Here he is hiding behind me so perfectly that you barely see the blanket he's holding.

My sweet friend Charissa. Our first sons are almost a year apart (her son Linus turns 2 in January) and then she beat me to getting pregnant with #2. Here we are in all our prego glory at her baby shower. Her baby boy Dalen is due to arrive sometime before the end of this month!

Oct. 7th, 2011 Baby Talk

2011-10-07T21:31:00.000-07:00

W: "Mama, I want to see baby move!"
(something he has asked often since the first time I let him watch my belly roll while his little brother was kicking)

M: Well, let me lay down and you can sit next to Mama and watch him.
(William crawls up on the couch next to me and situates himself for the show).

W: I need poke him Mama? Is he movin'?
(as he puts his cheek to my belly to see if he can hear him too)

M: Sometimes you just have to wait. He'll move when he wants to.

*Suddenly the belly rolls and the expression on William's face is priceless...

W: Mama!! I see head! ...I dig hole so baby can come out?
(as he precedes to scoop his hands into my belly like he's scooping out a hole)

M: No silly, baby brother isn't done growing yet. God will let him come out when he's done growing.

W: Baby "brudder" cry when he comes out?
(how he knows this, I'm not sure)

M: Yeah, baby brother will cry.

W: Baby "brudder" sad Mama?

M: Yeah, he will be sad when he first comes out, but then he'll be happy because he gets to see you!

W: Baby "brudder" happy Mama?! I sing him Happy Song Mama?!
(William has had a tradition before every nap time and bed time of singing him the "Happy Song"...Apparently he wants to share that with his baby brother)

M: Yep, we can sing him the "Happy Song"

William puts his lips to my tummy and smacks his baby "brudder" a big kiss (o: He then wraps his arms around him and says "I give baby "brudder" hug" ...

It's moments like this that make me all the more excited for William to meet his baby brother for the first time.

Oct. 1st, 2011 Our first mailbox

2011-10-01T09:05:00.000-07:00

For those who aren't aware, we no longer have our PO box. Since we've moved to the Gant Ranch, we have had to travel in to town to pick up our mail. We decided it was time to get rid of it (since we no longer have rental properties) and plant a mailbox out front. William had the privilege of getting our mail for the first time...

I LOVE this one. "Look Daddy, I got keys!"

Mr. shy man not wanting to touch the mail...Like it's gonna bite him or something.

P.S. If you haven't yet received our updated mailing address, contact me @ united12_27_03@yahoo.com

Sept. 17th, 2011 30 weeks (and 2 days) with #2!

2011-09-17T15:06:00.000-07:00

Really? 30 weeks already?! WHERE DID THE TIME GO???!!! He'll be here before we know it! Well, we just keep pluggin' along. Every day his kicks get a little stronger and the belly gets a little bigger-two blessings (you have to count them as that right?!) that remind me he's alive, well and growing. A couple of friends have had their baby's in July and Sept. and it's definitely become more of a reality that I'm next now that they have their little ones (o: We are SO excited and just so very thankful that everything is going so well. It's simply amazing to me how a woman can continue on with life so normally as their body is used as a station of creation by God to form a new human being..."amazing" doesn't even capture it...We serve an incredible God!

Here's me and my goofy William, posing with little brother. I got him to take pictures with me by convincing him he could roll his tongue like mom was doing...Guess my boys have a pretty goofy Mommy too (o:

A brother's hug!!

And for those who have been wondering, we've finally decided what his name will be. Unfortunately, you'll have to wait until he's born to find out (we have to keep some element of surprise for when he get's here!). Lori, we're going to have to stop asking William to say brother's name (o: If not, he's bound to reveal our secret under your pressure, and then you'd have to keep the secret! We'll keep encouraging the "baby budder" (how William says "baby brother") response when people try and sneak it out of him!

Sept. 10th, 2011 The bed modification...and lovin' it!

2011-09-10T09:05:00.000-07:00

One night while I was brushing William's teeth, Daddy quickly went into his bedroom and put his pop up tent on one end of his bed. You should have seen the surprised look on William's face when we told him to go get in bed and he got to crawl inside his tent to do so! Bus and Donna, this one's for you (o: Little did you know that the gift you gave him would turn into the exact spot he sleeps each night. He makes Mommy, baby brother and Daddy climb in each night to sing happy songs, read books, say prayers and kiss him goodnight. It gets a little stuffy in there, but the time is short and surely precious (o:

He was hamming it up in these pictures... something he rarely does.

Sept. 1st, 2011 28 weeks...Getting closer!

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"oh, Mom! Piiicaaature!" He was missing it and ran in to be a part of the action.

William has been fascinated with the fact that my belly button sticks out now...My outie belly button did the same thing when I was pregnant with William, stuck out like a turkey timer long before the "bun in the oven" was ready!

When he's done with the picture, he's done...Here William is telling me so, while pulling my shirt down.

Here's to the 3rd trimester!

(I'm thinking I need to stick my belly in the sun a little...It's stark white compared to the rest of my body!)

Sept. 1st, 2011 Sleepin' in Style!

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William has been sleeping in his brand new big boy bed for a couple weeks now. The funny thing is, he still calls for either me or dad when he wakes up in the morning (like he did when he was still in his crib) to get him out. We'll see how long that lasts! Although he's been sleeping in the bed for a little while, we just got his new comforter set today...Cars, Tractors and Airplanes! He's loving it, to say the least. Hard to believe that before we know it, the bunk bed will be up and there will be two little Gant boys jumping on the beds (o:

Just me and my Charlie horse...Last nap in the crib.

Helping Daddy put it together.

Book time before the first night in the new bed.

The first thing he did when I put his new comforter on the bed...crawled under and asked me to come get him (o:

I see you Mamma!

After getting all the giggles, jumps and energy out, we're finally ready for bed.

September 30th...a must see

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Aug. 22nd, 2011 A visit from Uncle Thomas and Auntie Mel!

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What a treat! Uncle Thomas and Auntie Mel came up and visited while on their way to vacation in the San Juan Islands. Although our time was short, we loved every minute of it! I just love watching William with them. I only wish we/they could visit more often. I make sure William remembers them by singing their names (he likes us to sing him "happy" song- "If you're happy and you know it!"- where we fill in different people's names in the verses) or including them in our prayers since we don't see them very often. You should hear William tell you where they live..."Coweeforia!" (California)...It's pretty hilarious how he says it.

Hangin' out

Walking at Silver Falls...Uncle Thomas, William and my cousin Addi

"Auntie Mel (he says it more like "Mow"), hold me!" ...He knows how to sucker her in (o:

William was loving the fort they made our living room into!

Thanks again for coming to visit us! WE LOVE YOU!

Aug. 16th, 2011 Boys and their toys!

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So apparently Curtis doesn't have to wait a couple years before William can help him with projects...Take a look for yourself...
Here he is helping Daddy level the gravel in our garage with the Compactor. I was amazed he even wanted near the thing with how noisy and vibrating it was. Guess his ear protection is working well!

Funny little side note, Curtis stepped out of the way and William got nervous that he couldn't see him. So what did he do? He left the compactor to run away by itself while he ran to find Dad. Unfortunately I didn't catch that one on camera (o:

He became quite confident in his new skill of running a piece of machinery twice the size of himself. If Dad tried to steer him in the right direction, he would promptly push his hand away...

Oh how fun this will be to look back on in a few years...

Aug. 11th, 2011 Already 25 weeks with Boy#2!

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I missed out on my 24 week prego pic while we were camping last week. So here we are at 25 weeks...Where did the time go?

Aug. 2nd-7th, 2011 Lost Lake Camping 2011

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We have enjoyed a camping trip with our Life Group from church the past 3 years. The first time we went William was barely 6 months old. This makes it his 3rd camping trip before he's even three! He only enjoys the dirt and outdoor living all the more every year! We always have a blast.

Here's William and Payton getting the kayaks ready for our trip to Lost Lake!

Daddy and William enjoying a swing on the hammock.

Our annual family pic with the picturesque view of Mt. Hood in the background. It's such a beautiful place to camp.

No, we didn't let him paddle himself out into the middle of the lake (o: Maybe some day...

His first kayak trip...and he cried the whole way. Mom had to rescue Dad from a crying William that wanted his "Mamma!"

William and Mama just chillin' by the fire...One of the many camping luxuries.

William loved it when Dad dipped his head in the lake. Dad was the only silly one to submerge himself into the frigid waters.

William and Mama on our hike back to camp after walking the 3.2 mile path around the lake! (It wasn't seconds later that his body was limp and he was asleep on top of my head.)

Our Camping Gang

Put two 2 yr olds together and you never know what's gonna happen! Jackson and William had a blast kickin' up the dirt together.

Here's our little boy in training to become like his Daddy, helping him split and carry firewood.

July 12th-25th, 2011 Sunny California!

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We headed down to CA for my brother's wedding and had a wonderful time with the family. It's always hard for me to leave, especially now that I have William and I see how much my parents enjoy being around him. I am so thankful for every visit!
William was to be my brother Chris and new sister-in-law Amber's ring bearer. He let his little stubborness shine through and wouldn't even put the dress shirt on we bought him (the little stinker!). So, mom walked him down the aisle with his dress pants and tee. I think maybe he'd make a great ring bearer in about a year or two...

Here's how our trip went...

We flew into L.A. and stayed at my Grandma's place for the night. The next day was her birthday so we met up with my parents and celebrated with family. Good times for sure. This was a momemt William was having with my Aunt Debbie that I just happened to catch on camera (o:

While in L.A. William also got to spend time with my cousin Brenden. He LOVED his big stuffed Curious George (what 2 yr old wouldn't?!).

At the wedding rehersal..."Gampa, I'm gonna get you!"

After the rehersal, William thought he was going to ride in the back of the car with his Great Grandpa and Uncle Mar. He plopped himself right in the middle of them and posed this...

Mama and her boy hangin' before the wedding. See that shirt and tie behind us?...Yeah, never did make it over that little tee he has on.

I love these boys!

One of the many times we swam in my mom and dad's backyard...Gotta love the pool!

I just love this one of William and his Grandpa.

William became quite a fish!

Soaking up the Grandma and Grandpa time.

William and his cousin Kyleigh ready to conquer Sea World!!!

William LOVED the Sesame Street rides! Unfortunately they wouldn't let anyone pregnant go on them, so he got to enjoy them with Grandpa and Grandma.

William and Grandpa sportin' their 3-d glasses before the Sesame Street movie!

William so gracefully accepting his cousins kisses (o:

The Thy's family + a William nephew.

William got to spend some time with his friend Lexi while we were there. You should have seen these two rock the piano! Oh how a 2 and 3 year old can PLAY!

Part of our plan trip I let William watch one of his favorites, "Tom & Jerry". He looks like such a little grown up sitting there. You should have heard him when we lifted off the ground. Luckily it's pretty loud when the plan takes off because he was yelling "Pane go FAST! Pane go FAST!" (he's still working on saying his "l"s ...)

Oh how we miss all of you down South! We already can't wait to see Grandpa & Grandma when they're here for William's little brother's arrival...only 3 months away!!!

July 11th, 2011 And the verdict is...

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So, I'd like to introduce to you Mama and her new little boy (William wasn't interested in being in the picture this time) (o: Yep, that's right. It's another little boy! We are very excited to spill the news that we will be expecting a little brother for William!

Happy Birthday Grandma Marsha (her birthday is today) You get another grandson (o:

July 4th, 2011 Happy Birthday America!

2011-07-04T23:57:00.000-07:00

It's tradition...Grandma Marsha lines the street in front of her house with chairs set out for the 4th of July parade in Molalla. She's got the perfect house to view the parade from. Of course, we thought William was going to be a little more into the parade this year (particularly the part where there's candy thrown at you), but he maintained his reservations and enjoyed the few pieces of candy mom or dad ran out to get him. It is definitely going to be a fun childhood tradition for William (o:

Sitting on the curb with Grandma Marsha

Hangin' with Mama and buddy Deanna

Watchin' the parade with Daddy

Playin' in the pool with Kennedy!

June 23rd 2011, 18 weeks with #2

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Today marks 18 weeks with baby #2. Only a few short weeks and we should be able to find out whether we're expecting a little brother or sister for William! We are SO excited!

...And then William wanted to climb on my back..."Monkey Mama!" he screamed! He fits a little differently these days (o:

June 19th, 2011 Happy Father's Day Dada!

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I was schedule to work tonight so I had set up for a little party that my two boys (Daddy and his son) could enjoy while I was away. I ended up getting put on-call and so got to enjoy the party with them! We had pizza (Daddy's favorite), root-beer, chocolate cake with red frosting (we're helping William learn his colors...why not through food?! (o: ) and ice cream. I rented Toy Story (William had never seen it) and we are now on a movie marathon with Little Rascals following (on of our favorites)...2 movies in a row!!! What a lucky little boy.
And that he is...one lucky little boy. I am so thankful for the family I've been blessed with. And I'm SO thankful that God has given William Curtis as his Daddy. It is so fun watching the two of them learn and grow together. I look forward to continuing to watch William grow into the man he will be one day...And if it's even half the man that Curtis is, then I will be one thankful Mama.

Here's a picture of William, chilling with his Daddy on the couch, eyes thoroughly glued on the movie.

June 14th, 2011 I felt a kick!

2011-06-14T22:50:00.000-07:00

Okay, so it didn't feel like I was being kicked in the gut, but I'm sure it was as hard as this little bean inside of me can muster up at the size of a baked potato (just giving you an idea of how big he or she is at this stage). I've been waiting (lying still each night before falling asleep...) to feel this baby move and today there was no mistaking it (No Dad, I didn't have beans or cabbage soup for dinner). Little, tiny, repetitive kicks that felt like someone was flicking me inside. It is such a reassurance that this little one is alive and well. Now that the nausea is gone and I've been feeling pretty good, I've wondered every day about the baby's health. Thank you Lord for the small things in life that make a Mommy smile. May Your hands continue to mold and shape this little one into who they will become when I get to meet them.

June 9th, 2011 16 weeks with #2

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I can hardly believe I'm approaching 4 months of pregnancy with this little one. Where does the time go? I guess having a 2 year old to occupy my time (and energy!) makes the time pass more quickly than I feel it did when I was pregnant with William. He still gives the baby (my belly) hugs and kisses and tells me there's a baby inside. I'm so curious how he will react when that little baby is actually real and occupying Mama's time (o:

He is so curious about how my "outie" belly button.

*And for those that are interested, I'm growing at a steady rate. I've grown from a 28" waist at 4 weeks to 33 1/2"! I think my body is attuned to what it means to be pregnant this time around...grow, grow, grow!

June 5th-8th, 2011 Our trip to Hermiston!

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It was long overdue...A trip to see Grandma and Grandpa in Hermiston. We had such a good time! We were able to help them out with a few house projects (our belated Christmas present to them!) as well as visit and spend quality time. And even though William doesn't see his Grandpa Terry and Grandma Loretta too often, he knew exactly who they were, "Gampa and Gamma" (o:

Yes, William did help us work. He does such a good job!

Watering Grandma's flowers...Okay, it's been raining enough they didn't need watered, but he had fun (and stayed busy).

Measuring some wood...He's still working on his measurements (o:

He even found some treasures!

Hangin' with Grandma and Grandpa

Being one of the men, while helping with the deck project...I think he could play ALL day with a drill, some drill bits and some screws. He'll even wear the battery down and hand it to you saying, "Mama, dead. Ba-rees (his version of batteries)."

Grandpa and Grandma, thank you for such a great visit!

June 2nd, 2011 Tasting the Wind...

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We were driving home from a day of shopping and had to move William's car seat next to the window in order to fit some of our purchases in the back of the car. As you can see, I don't think he liked it. Fortunately we had the camera in the car so I could catch the moment and share it with you (o:

May 20th, 2011 This year's Garden

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I remember planting the garden last year with William-pretty cute. This year-pretty hilarious! Of course, his attention span isn't very long, but he got it down pretty quick what's required to plant a seed (probably because he's seen his mom plant quite a few in his lifetime!). I'll let the pictures (and video) tell the story...

I would hand him a seed and point to where he needed to put it.

Then he would plop it in it's spot and push it down with his finger (I didn't even have to tell him. I guess he's seen me do it quite a few times!)

Then...he gets bored with that task and tries to eat the seeds I give him.

Or, sprinkle the whole package in...(it gets done faster that way, right?!)

Again, it's quite hilarious planting with a 2 year old (o: It takes quite a bit longer than if I was to just do it myself, but I wouldn't have it any other way. I'm glad I have this blog to jot this down...I don't ever want to forget these times. I'm very thankful for my little planter (o:

May 13th, 2011 Visiting Daddy at the Fire Station

2011-05-13T22:46:00.000-07:00

It's been awhile since we took William to see his Daddy at work. We were headed into Portland to visit William's Great Grandma who was up from California for a visit. I thought, since we were already in Portland, that we'd all go to the station and check it out. Little did I know, we were going to get a boat ride on the 80 ton "1927 David Campbell"...while Daddy was pilot! What a treat! Here's what I captured of the visit:

Hands in pockets, hangin' with Great Grandma (o:

Maybe a future harbor pilot in the making?...

"Move over Dad, I think I can do it now!"

Cousin Audre, Grandma, Mamma & William. It was such a great day for a boat ride!

"Dadda, I like this boat!"

Hangin' out in the fire engine

William wasn't too sure about Dad putting on all his gear...

I finally got him to stand on Daddy's lap. He was diggin' the flashlight.

May 12th, 2011 1st Trimester down...12 weeks

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Now when I ask William if he wants to take a picture with the baby, he knows exactly what to do. He climbs into position so that he can wrap his arms around my belly and then gives a great big smile (o:

We had to take a preggo pic while she was in town from Oklahoma...
Matina @ 31 weeks (with her first), Melissa @ 12 weeks (this is what happens when your body knows what being pregnant is all about-you pop right out there!).

April 28th-30th Camping at Winema

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Our church does an annual camping trip to Winema Beach. We stay at Winema Christian Camp where I grew up going to camps during the summer as a kid. Being there brought back some great memories... It was neat to see both how much it has changed as well as all of the many things that have remained the same. Little did I know that one day I would be bringing my own son here to play! Hopefully he'll grow up going to camp just like I did.

Although it wasn't real warm, we had some beautifully sunny days to play on the beach. William got to fly a kite with Dad for the first time and loved it (the coast has great winds for kite flying!)! He even held on to it all by himself.

Here's some pics (and video!) of our stay...

William, watching Dad as he helped the camp out by trimming up some of the trees. Can you see Curtis up there?

Time at the beach...

William retrieving his ball from the hole while playing miniature golf.

Daddy teaching William how to fly a kite for the firs time.

He flew it all by himself!

Any boy couldn't pass up a puddle like this!

April 27th, 2011 10 weeks "Who's belly is bigger?!"

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I told William we were going to take some pictures of the baby. Lately he has been quite fascinated with the "baby" and that it's hiding in Mamma's tummy. He gives the baby (my belly) hugs and kisses. I haven't yet been able to catch it on camera but hopefully he'll let me (he tends to quit whatever he's doing when I get the camera out). I'm sure if there was an actual baby here(taking up mom's attention) he wouldn't be too fond of it...We'll see what happens in about 6 months (o:

Once William saw I was taking a picture of my belly, he had to show me his...

April 24th, 2011 Happy Easter!

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This Easter was a little different this year. Grandma Marsha was on vacation and so we didn't have our traditional lunch and easter egg hunt at her house. Instead, Curtis' Uncle and Aunt are here from Florida and so we decided to have lunch with them at our house. We had a wonderful time! William has grown to love Dan and Patti and can say both of their names quite well (Patti has been working on him saying her name each time they visit...he got it this time!).

Hangin' with Tia Patti!

Family photo...William and Curtis both wore ties to church. What handsome boys I have!

April 23rd, 2011 Tulip Festival!

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We live within walking distance of the Wooded Shoe Tulip Festival which makes for many trips to see the beautiful flowers. Each year we enjoy having people out for lunch and then walking to the Festival. This year we started the tradition with our Life Group at church and then also held the 3rd annual Festival get together with friends from Portland. I was worried we wouldn't have good weather being that this year has been so cold! The sun decided to show and we had some beautiful weather for walking. Here are some of the moments we captured...

One of those rare moments when he smiled perfectly for the camera...

"Moma, drive?"...

His reaction after I told him he couldn't

The kids got a special ride to the Festival...and loved it!

Wandering through the flowers with Dad

Enjoying the Hay slides

I don't know how many times I told William "Don't pick the flowers, just smell." He was so fascinated with them.

April 18th, 2011 And now for Baby Gant #2...

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For those who journeyed with us in prayer over the past year and 1/2 as we struggled with infertility, we can't tell you how much we appreciated you. We are finally able to tell you that William is going to be a big brother!! Saw our little peanut on ultrasound today...heart ticking away and little body squirming around. A healthy little baby in the making. An ultrasound was done to determine my exact due date. William should meet his new little brother or sister around Thanksgiving (due Nov. 24th) and oh how THANKFUL we are!

March 10th, 2011 Two of our favorite people...

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Bus and Donna were our dear friends and neighbors when we lived in Portland. Although we moved before William was born, they have stayed in contact and absolutely LOVE our little boy. They were in our area and decided to stop by for a visit. They had missed William's 2nd birthday party and so brought his gift by. Just before they got there, I was telling William who was coming. I was so excited when he said both of their names, "Bes" and "DaDa". And even more excited when he said their names while giving them hugs before they left. What special friends we have. I'm so thankful William gets to share them with us (o:

Anticipating what's inside...

A Tonka Truck!!

Do you love it William?!

We love you both!

Feb. 17th, 2011 Dad's sidekick

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William's love for tractors and been reinforced as he watches his daddy outside working on the tractor and backhoe during the makings of our garage. It's all he can do to contain himself long enough to get his jacket, hat, gloves and boots to me so that I can help him get them on. Then he waits at the back door saying "Trekta! Mom, Trekta!" If Curtis is up for giving him a ride, I open the door and William runs (literally) to wherever the tractor is, just waiting for daddy to pick him up, sit him on his lap and get to work. It warms my heart to see the two of them out there together. Curtis has even taught William how to lift the bucket on our tractor! Boy was he proud of himself when I got to see it for the first time. Here he is waiting at the front door, crying because I wouldn't let him out yet. William LOVES to help his Daddy. Pouring down rain, and still lovin' it! Drivin' the big backhoe (and no, we don't own it)

Here's the farmer at work, showing Mom his new skill.

February 7th, 2011 Happy 2nd Birthday William!

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He's at a stage in his life where everything (I mean everything!) is about tractors. So it seemed quite fitting that I try and pull off a John Deere themed party. He only got a little upset when I used one of the tractors that he plays with for the top of his cake (after putting the tractor through the dishwasher, don't worry!). He wasn't too fond of mom's creative idea.

(I realized halfway through cutting it that I hadn't taken a picture of it yet. So here you go, a half cut picture of the big boy's ice cream cake.) We got to skype with Grandma and Grandpa, Aunt Mel and Uncle Maurice while we sang happy birthday and blew out the candle. One way to bring the far away family to the party!

It's tough to know how a 2 year old is going to react to a birthday party, but I think he had fun. If he didn't, I know I did! I only wish I could have invited all of you, but if you know the size of our house (even after our remodel) we're a little limited on space.

Auntie Lori getting him all psyched up for the party! It took a little convincing.

This was the first gift he opened. He pointed at it, hunched his shoulders in excitement and said "Trektr!" Thanks for the tractor book Great Aunt Lisa!

He didn't know what to think of the pinata. At first I thought he might get upset when all the other boys started whacking on it! He was a little timid and needed some coaching from Aunt Lori. His cousins on the other hand...they went all out!

A Family pic

Here he is after the party and a nap...Runnin' around with no pants and LOVIN' his new toys!

All in all, a very fun day. I still can hardly believe my little William is 2. I was just talking to a friend who's son turned 21 today...I'm sure it will seem like the blink of an eye when we're celebrating William's 21st, thinking back to today. For now, I'll just enjoy all the days inbetween.

Jan. 25th, 2011 Life in the Day of an (almost) 2 year old...

2011-01-25T22:54:00.000-08:00

For those of you who have experienced toddlerhood, you know how busy a toddler can be. I decided to pack the camera around today and just snap a few pictures of what Mr. William finds to do in a day. I think if I decided to do this everyday it would make for an interesting blog post. He amazes me with the things he comes up with and just how quickly he's growing into quite the little boy. Here's to a day in William's shoes...

...or his moms (and they always seem to be on the wrong feet) (o:

I told William we were going to let the dogs inside but that we had to dry their feet off first. Before I had finished what I was doing, he was already at the door with the towel wrapped around his hands. It'll be really nice when he can actually wipe the dogs feet too!

Usually, the under sink cabinet is off limits and William knows it. As any toddler does, William ended up sneaking it open to play with the dishwasher tabs. Mom clued in when it got a little too quiet...I had to take a few pictures. Then we discussed that he was being naughty...what bad parenting!

At least he helped me put them all back (o:

With all the pictures I was taking, he kept saying my name. "You want a picture with Mom?" I asked. "Yeah!" he said (with great enthusiasm I must say).
So, here's me and my sweet William.

My little William, I love living life with you.
You sure do know how to make your Mommy smile.

January 7th, 2011 Playing the piano in the...

2011-01-07T14:51:00.000-08:00

William loves music. He especially loves one of the greatest 3$ garage sale deals ever purchased: his little piano and drum seat. It plays various tunes or he can just plunk away one key at a time. It comes complete with it's own microphone that he loves to yell in to and a little seat that, when bounced up and down on, plays a drum beat. This morning he decided to play in the nude. Although these pictures would be X-rated if he was a bit older, they're some precious little buns at this age. You should have seen him bounce his cheeks up and down to the beat (o: I was laughing out loud.

Dec. 29th, 2010 Williams first Barber cut

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We decided to take William in to Barber Andy for his first official haircut. We've trimmed a few hairs here and there with our clippers but decided he needed to experience the barber shop (shouldn't every little boy?). Barber Andy is where William's Grandpa Bruce has gone for many years to get his hair cut. William wasn't into the whole experience...to say the least.

Could we have tortured him enough?

I tried bribing him with some m&m's...that didn't even work.

It's a little difficult to catch an almost two year old for a picture but you can kinda see the cut from this one. We think he looks like a little boy from a Norman Rockwell picture.

Dec. 28th, 2010 William's Christmas'

2010-12-28T19:51:00.000-08:00

William is such a lucky boy when it comes to Christmas. He's got three sets of grandpas and grandmas which of course means opening presents three times (o: Curtis and I don't have to get him anything and he's got plenty by the time he's done! He enjoyed Christmas a lot more this year and it was fun to watch his expressions (and hear the sounds he would make) as he opened each gift.

We spent Christmas morning at the Stroh house with humongous cinnamon rolls for breakfast and some good family time, Christmas day was spent with Grandma Marsha and Grandpa Bruce and the VanOrsow clan, the day after Christmas was spent with the Gant family, Grandma Kim and Grandpa Pile drove up from CA and arrived two days after Christmas, and then Grandma Loretta and Grandpa Terry stopped by on their way home to Hermiston on the 28th. It was a busy couple days! We are truly blessed with all the family we have.

William LOVED the little dog Grandma Marsha gave him Christmas day.

Tradition: wrapping paper fight after all the presents have been opened...William knocked out from a flying wad of paper. Whoever decided they could hit the little guy? Don't worry, he thought it was funny after he got back up.

Grandma Marsha made all the Gant boys matching pajamas...pretty stinkin' cute (o:

Grandpa Greg and Grandma Kim got him a little train and track. He was learning from Grandpa how to use it...(see how intently he's folding his hands-he worked on it for awhile)

Mom had to throw in this pic...Although it was pretty sad that William had to get sick around Christmas, I had to take a picture of this absolutely adorable little boy who kept putting the cold washcloth back on his head when I would take it off.

Despite being sick, he mustered up enough energy to enjoy the tractors Grandpa Terry and Grandma Loretta gave him. William LOVES tractors!

Dec. 8th, 2010 Getting ready for Christmas

2010-12-08T18:47:00.000-08:00

William is quite the little helper these days. Christmas will be a lot different this year with a toddler to share it with (o: These last few days we've had fun making sugar cookies and decorating the Christmas tree...

Makin' cookies with mom.

This is hard work Mom! How do you get them to look so good?

I think he had more fun squishing the dough between his fingers. Regardless, he had fun. And he even helped make a big heart shaped one for his daddy.

Then we decorated the tree...
Helpin' Mom string the lights

Just for kicks, here's a comparison this year to last year...This year instead of just staring at the lights, he wanted to kiss them. We'll see what next year brings...
My little almost one year old...

My toddler, almost 2 year old!

Nov. 28th, 2010 California Thanksgiving

2010-11-28T22:47:00.000-08:00

We bit the bullet, packed the car and road tripped it down to my parents house for Thanksgiving. It was a fast trip, jam packed with family and friends. We split our time on the road up by spending a couple nights at friend's houses on the way down as well as on the way back home. That's the nice thing about road trips-you get to see twice the # of people.
William is quite the little traveler. Of course, mom and dad got a little help from the dvd player (o; I think William watched more movies on this trip than he's seen in his entire lifetime.

Where William spent a lot of time...Doesn't he look like he's having a blast?!

William (and I) meeting his cousin Khyleigh for the first time!

The family...Brother Chris, new soon to be sister-in-law Amber (got engaged while we were down there!), and baby Khyleigh

The Pile family...all except sister Tune (in Japan)...We miss you Tauna!

October 12th, 2010 Bauman Farms

2010-10-12T15:07:00.000-07:00

We visited the pumpkin patch with our good friends Emily & Gavin. I had never been to Bauman Farms and they've got quite a bit to enjoy! William still isn't quite old enough to enjoy it all, but I think he loved it just the same.

We made it through about 1/4 of the hay maze (o:

Just Me and my Buddy

My favorite...Tractor!

October 1st, 2010 Following in his Daddy's footsteps

2010-10-01T23:26:00.000-07:00

William has been so cute helping his Daddy with our current remodel project. It has been so fun watching him mimick Daddy's actions with certain tools and crouch down beside him like he's ready to help. He loves to find any little empty hole to stick a screwdriver or screw into. We slid many drawers in only to take them back out and find that William had put a screw into a small hole that was hindering the drawer from sliding in. Pretty hillarious. He was always proud of himself...even clapped his hands.
Here's a picture of one of his small projects. I was working, not entirely paying attention to what he was up to (who can keep there eye on a toddler ALL the time?!). I later discovered that he was traveling from a box of screws to a wall cabinet that was still lying on the floor. The pictures tell the rest of the story...

When I finally noticed what he was doing, he would show me an empty hole, sign "more", go get another screw, put it in the hole and then clap and giggle when he was done.
What a cutie...(o:

August 25th-Sept. 6th, 2010 California here we come...again!

2010-09-06T21:17:00.000-07:00

Yes, this was our second trip to California this summer. This one was originally planned, but I'm sure glad it worked out! Curtis sent William and I down to see Grandpa and Grandma while he slaved away on our kitchen remodel . He worked while we got to visit and play...I've got such an incredible husband. We timed it so that I could see my sister before she left to head back to Japan (she had been there since Spring and was home for a summer visit) and I could attend my cousin's wedding. The time was good; always is. Makes me realize how much I miss the ones I love that are so far away...

The sista's

The clan...

William thinking he's gonna hitch a ride with Tauna to Japan...Not so fast Mister!

Saying our goodbyes...

It isn't time with Grandpa until you've gotten on a tractor...William and Grandpa, both in their elements. William notices any tractor he sees and tells me "Trekta, Trekta, Trekta Mamma!"

At the beach...

Just me and my Grandma...

Visiting Grandma at work..."What does this do?"

Downtown Escondido's Cruisin' Grand...It was antique tractor night!

William wondering what Grandpa was doing in the pool with his jeans on...

William wasn't too sure about the python (at a farm near my mom and dad's house)... A healthy fear for sure!

All the cousin's at Ally's wedding

August 25th, 2010 Learning construction with Dad

2010-08-25T12:20:00.000-07:00
We're in the middle of a major kitchen remodel at the Gant house. William gets right in there with Dad and "helps" him with whatever he's working on. It's pretty cute to see him pick up the hammer and mimick Curtis' actions. He's a little boy following his in his Daddy's footsteps. If he becomes even half the man his Daddy is, I'll be one proud mama.

"Here you go Mom, don't forget your face mask."

What a perfect little boy's hideout...

"Is it this one Daddy?"

"Okay, don't worry I'll get it!"

Along with Construction sometimes comes an "ouchie".
William experiencing his mom as Nurse for the first time.

Sittin' and watchin' Mark at work...Sometimes I just wonder what he's thinking...

August 21st, 2010 Gant Ranch BBQ

2010-08-21T12:35:00.000-07:00
Annually we try and get together our friends from when we lived in Portland for a BBQ during the summer. We always enjoy seeing old friends, eating good food and just hanging out into the evening. We cherish our friendships and are thankful that this time allows us to keep connected.

William and Lindsey.

Sarah and Petra goofin' around!

The newest addition to our clan, Lauren Marie just a little over a week old.

The kids pickin' berries...

Sarah teaching Brycen how to act rough and tough on the four wheeler.

Holdin' miss Adalie (hope I spelled it right!), one of the Huld twins.

August 5th-8th, 2010 Lost Lake Camping

2010-08-08T11:50:00.000-07:00
We were so excited for our camping trip this year! We planned to head up to Lost Lake with our Life Group from church and camp for an extended weekend. We had such a blast. I just love seeing William play in the dirt and enjoy the outdoors 24/7. What little boy wouldn't love it! We had planned to take him on his first kayak ride but time and weather didn't permit. Don't worry, I know Dad will get him on the kayak with him sooner than later! Here are some of the fun pics from the weekend...

What better thing to do on a long drive than fall asleep...with watchdog Max at your side.

Mama and William sittin' by the fire

Pickin up rocks, down by the river.

Nothin' like a lukewarm bath in the wide open nature (Okay, Mom was being a little torturous at this point! We only did it once.)

Giving loves to his little buddy!

Our dutch oven (lasagna) goodness...

Playin' with the big kids: Jacob, Ethan and Lauren.

A mouthful of red licorice...and loving it!

My precious family

July 19th, 2010 Playtime with Linus!

2010-07-19T14:59:00.000-07:00
My friend Charissa was heading up North from Eugene to visit friends/family for the week. We are SO glad she decided to make our house one of her stops! I absolutely loved seeing William and Linus play together. And it was just so much fun getting to spend extended time with a great friend. I so often forget when William was only 6 months old...Seems like forever ago he's changed so much! Thanks Charissa for the great visit! Know that you're welcome anytime.

Linus and William gettin' to know each other (o:

"Mom, do I have to share my stroller?" William slowly recognized that Linus was crowding his space...Linus on the other hand was just lovin' it!

Since we don't currently have a bathtub, William still takes a bath in the sink sometimes. This time Linus got to join him on the other side (o:

Look at how cute he is!

June 30th, 2010 Water Fun!!

2010-07-02T22:33:00.001-07:00
I think, if William could make a list of the things he REALLY enjoys, I think WATER would be at the top of the list! He loves splashing in it, pouring it, kicking it, laying in it, drinking it...I don't think there's anything he doesn't like doing in it! Here are some fun photos I've taken over this past month (in the few moments of sunshine we've gotten this June!).

Playing in the water at the park!

He had just gotten done getting incredibly dirty in a bucket of ashes from our fireplace. I decided the best way to wash him off was to entertain him with a trickle from one of our faucets (which worked fabulously by the way!). I had to pull him away because he was cold, and he did NOT want to leave that water!

Playin' in Grandma's pool.

June 28th 2010 Happy Birthday Daddy!

2010-06-28T22:05:00.000-07:00
We spent Curtis' birthday down in California while we were visiting my family. We went to the San Diego Zoo for the first time and then enjoyed dinner and some Blonde Brownies with the fam! Here are some of my favorite pics. I love you Sweetie!

First it was Mom and Dad's turn...

Then William became Mr. Construction!

I got these shirts for my boys for Father's Day. What a handsome pair.

William, so excited that Dad's gonna let him open his cards!

The mess after William was done..."Sorry Daddy!"

June 8th, 2010 June Strawberries

2010-06-09T20:34:00.001-07:00

Suspicious...

The culprit!

May 30th, 2010 Maurice's 20th!

2010-05-30T20:17:00.000-07:00
We were the fortunate three (Curtis, William and I) that got to spend Mar's 20th bday weekend with him. Sorry Mar, it wasn't a big party (o: But I loved every minute of it. I'm just tickled at how much William adores his Uncle Maurice. It's fun to watch the two interact. Here are some fun pics of the weekend...

Maurice, helping us out with a few projects for some extra $...William, learning from his uncle while trying to help him out.

"Boys, let me check your work..."

We improvised...no birthday cake to put the candle in so we decided the morning's cinnamon roll would work.

We took a trip to Silver Falls. We hiked some trails and then William had fun learning out to skip rocks...Okay well, maybe the rocks just "kirplunked", but he was having a blast!

First, you have to find a nice, small, smooth one William...

Maurice's graceful skip...William's perfect "kirplunk"!

Now, how does he do that? I can't get it to work!

May 27th, 2010 Growing like a seed

2010-05-27T21:47:00.000-07:00
I'm heavy into gardening...Many afternoons spent outside, digging in the dirt, planting. I absolutely love it. There's something about the joy that I get when I push a tiny seed into the ground and later get to see it push through the soil and become a luscious fruit or vegetable.

I went out today to find the first of what will soon become my pumpkin patch. As a reached down to brush away some of the dirt from it's leaves, a tiny little seedling had poked through. God spoke to me at that moment. There are so many correlations to God's creation and what he speaks to our lives. I thought of my son. How he is just like that little seedling. The tiny green leaves don't reveal yet what the plant will become. Only the gardener knows what seed was planted. My little William has sprouted. He's pushed through the soil. And with the tender care a seedling needs, he will grow. And he'll grow and grow and grow until one day I will be able to see what God has purposed for his life. It takes patience, and there are obstacles to overcome. So, I will wait. And with anticipation, I'll love every minute of the growing process.

My tiny little "Jack be Little" pumpkin sprout

May 16th, 2010 A visit from Ryan!

2010-05-16T21:35:00.000-07:00
My cousin Ryan is stationed up in Oak Harbor, Washington while he finishes his service in the Navy. He was headed south for a friend's birthday and decided to head a little further south and visit us! I'm so glad you called Ryan. I can't remember the last time I had seen him and it was his first time meeting William. Maurice was able to get together with us and we even caught Tauna on Skype in Japan so we could all visit at the same time. What a great family I have. Truly blessed.

We hung out in the park after church before Ry had to head back home...

William, just leaned back into Ry as they swung. If only I could insert a button you could push that would play his giggle (o:

May 14th, 2010 Silver Falls

2010-05-14T22:16:00.000-07:00
We decided to escape the hottest part of the day, drop our work outside, and take a random trip up to Silver Falls. I can't remember the last time I'd been there. Curtis suggested it and I'm sure glad he did. It was nice to get away, enjoy the sun, walk the trails, put our feet in the water...some good family time. We've decided, living so close, that we've definitely got to go more often. William had fun walking the trails and absolutely loved the water (even though it was frigidly cold!). He tromped right in, clothes and all, right after his Daddy. Pretty stinkin' cute!

On our way down the trail

He would splash and kick the water while laughing! Having way too much fun!

Hence, the stripping of the clothes and diaper before heading home...

May 13, 2010 Learnin' to garden

2010-05-13T21:49:00.000-07:00
Even if William doesn't grow up to share my love for gardening, he's already fallen in love with the dirt. As many of you have seen, I plant a pretty large section of vegetables each year and thoroughly enjoy doing it (must have been growing up on the farm and helping my mom garden all those years...). It's been pretty hillarious seeing William watch me use the garden tools and then trying to mimick my actions. We'll see if he gets sick of it...Mom's got a lot more digging to do!

"Is this how you do it Mom?"

"Uhhh...I can't read numbers yet."
(all tangled up in the measuring tape and soaker hose)

My little helper!
(He enjoyed kicking the dirt in the little mounds I made for the pumpkins...I think it's gonna take a little longer to plant this year!)

Time to water! Watch out William!!!

"Oh yeah Mom...Just watch out!"

May 9th, 2010 Mother's Day

2010-05-09T21:00:00.000-07:00
What a sweet day. Got to hang with two of my favorite people, my son and my brother (hubby was gone to work). Thanks Maurice for letting me steal your day. I wouldn't have had it any other way...Church in the morning, a picnic lunch at the park (with some absolutely gorgeous sunshine I might add!), ice cream, a lesson on changing bike tires (included a few hours of effortless attempts, but I think we're pros now!), and I even made it home to plant a row of pumpkins before the rain hit...

Here's my favorite picture of the day.

*I got two beautiful hanging baskets from Curtis yesterday, and William went all out and got his mom a digital picture frame! (o: (Thanks for thinking of me sweetie)

May 6th, 2010 "Are you done yet?"

2010-05-06T20:35:00.000-07:00
It may be a bit early, but I've decided to introduce the potty..."Am I really ready for this?" I ask myself. After hearing advice from a dear friend, I decided to at least introduce it now, even if I'm not hard core about it yet. So, just yesterday, when it seemed as though William was going to do a job in his pants, I promptly pulled off his diaper and sat him on the pot. I wish you all could have been there. Hil-lar-ious!!! If I would have been thinking I would have taken a video of it. I was having way too much fun laughing with him, all I caught were these few pictures. But, they tell the story quite well...

"Uh Mom...what am I doing here?"

"I think I should take my pants off...Yeah, shouldn't I take my pants off Mom?"

"Fine then, I'll try it myself."

Stand up, sit down, stand up, sit down...He did this I don't know how many times.

At this point, he's laughing uncontrollably. Who knew that going potty could be so fun!

*For those of you who care, the end result was an empty potty chair. We'll chalk it up to some healthy gas and keep on trying. At this rate, I can see how this potty training thing could end up being quite disasterous...As in a disasterous mess if you know what I mean!

April 15th, 2010 Gant Family Photos...

2010-04-15T22:58:00.000-07:00
For those of you who haven't seen the great job Twyla Rohde did in capturing our family, here's a little taste. And for those of you who've already seen some of them...here's a few you haven't yet! It was a session to mark William's first year of life.

I think I was tickling him at this point (o:

My sweet William boy...

I had to put this one in here because it captures the true essence of a photo session with a toddler...You can see the goldfish crackers in his mouth-He decided it was break time (o:

I know it will seem like a blink of an eye before I look back at this one after he's left us to go off to college...Okay, maybe I've got a little time yet, but it's already going by way too fast (o:

April 15th, 2010 Swim Time!

2010-04-15T22:39:00.000-07:00
Today was William's last swim lesson! We've tried out the Canby Swim Center for a month of lessons twice a week and he loved it. I think the only time he ever cried was when we had to get out of the pool. He was the youngest in the class so it was fun to see what some of the older kids could do and what we have to look forward to in the water. Two of the things William was able to do well were blow bubbles under the water and kick his feet when I had him lying on his back. Dad came to some of the lessons and took some pictures for us...

Practicing his streamline...

Jumpin' off the table...

Doin' great in a life jacket!

April 12th, 2010 Using a spoon?

2010-04-12T22:29:00.000-07:00
William, mom really got a laugh out of this one (o: I figured it was time to let you try out the silverware on your own. I'm not joking when I say that you were entertained for about an hour with some yogurt and your own untensil in hand. Not sure how much of it you actually got in your mouth, but we'll call it your first lesson in table manners...I've got a long ways to go!

Goin' for the dip...

Notice there's nothing actually on the spoon...

But if there is, he's gonna get it!

Later, that blob in his eye actually worked it's way in...He decided he was done then.

April 10th, 2010 Friends and Tulips...

2010-04-10T22:14:00.000-07:00
We are trying to make an annual get together around the time of the Tulip Festival with all of our dear friends from the Portland area. This will be the second year we've enjoyed a bbq, some tulips and some absolutely gorgeous weather! We live within walking distance of the festival and even closer to the edge of the tulip fields where they planted them this year. Pictures don't do justice, but figured I'd include a few here anyway (o:

We hook our little trailer on the back of the four wheeler and the kids have a blast! (I think it's the highlight of their day!)

This one's gotta be one of my favorites...William fell asleep during our walk and he was just waking up on Daddy's arm.

My Boys!

Okay, all he really wanted to do was pick all the tulip leaves off, but I managed to get this one picture of him being "gentle" (o:

April 4th, 2010 Celebrating Easter

2010-04-04T21:48:00.000-07:00
We always enjoy a great church service followed by an absolutely scrumptious dinner and enjoyable time with family on Easter. This year was even more fun as we watched William discover what an Easter egg hunt was (and he quickly figured out that Grandma hid candy inside the eggs!). Here are some pics to showcase the day...

Okay, so he didn't quite understand the "hide and seek" part of it, but if we threw a few out in front of him, he was all about picking them up.

And of course, dumping them out of the basket...

Mom, could you help me get this one open? (The "ear eggs" are compliments of Uncle Maurice)

An Easter Family photo

March 24th, 2010 Outside Plantin' Blueberries!

2010-03-24T22:07:00.000-07:00
We recently planted over 300 blueberry plants in our back field (I know, crazy huh?!). We caught one of the nice, sunny afternoons and went to town! We had a couple of the high schooler's from church out to help and of course...William had to get in on the action too. Not sure he actually got any planting done, but he got a healthy education on how dirt and sawdust taste! He was entertained for quite a while putting dirt in an empty blueberry container...oh, the simple joys of everything being new and exciting in life.

The field...

Like this mom?

Playin' with his pot

He always seems to find something to chew on!

March 21st, 2010 A bedtime prayer

2010-03-21T21:25:00.000-07:00
To William-
Mom's been transitioning you to a bottle recently. As I fed you some milk tonight, your eyes slowly closed as they drifted off to sleep. I had a moment that I hope never to forget (and the reason I'm writing it here). As I looked at your peacefully sleeping face, I realized how much you've grown over this last year; how much you've changed from a tiny 6lb baby into a little boy. It made me sad and happy all at the same time. I was saddened at how quickly time has passed; how moments go by that we'll never be able to live again. You'll never be that tiny infant in my arms ever again. I was overwhelmed with joy as I thought of how much life you have ahaed of you and how thankful I am that I get to travel this journey with you. I love watching you learn, and there are so many things I want to teach you! All the while, surrounding you with the love of the Lord; a love that will never leave you no matter how many people come and go in your life. You will continue to grow from a boy into a man and your daddy and I will be right here by your side as you do....I could look at your sleeping face for such a long time and never tire of it. Thank you Lord for the joy of being a mommy. I look forward to how You'll change both of our lives as we grow together.
I love you son.

(And even though a picture could never do justice, I snuck the camera out and took a picture of the sweet little face I was looking at)

March 5th, 2010 Our last visit with Tauna

2010-03-05T23:44:00.000-08:00
My sister leaves for Japan later this month. She's contracted to teach English in some of the Japanese schools for a year. Today was the last day we would see her before she leaves to head down to CA to visit the rest of the family before she's gone to Japan. What bittersweet day. I am so excited for the new adventure in Japan that awaits her, but I still hold onto that Big sis desire to have her close. I am already thankful for Skype, as it will be our way to communicate while she's gone. Here's some pics from our day...

Mar was able to join us for the day too! Look at that brotherly sisterly love...

Giving William a bear hug...Hard to believe he'll be 2 when she sees him again.

Just before saying goodbye

WE LOVE YOU TUNES! We know the Lord will use you mightily wherever He directs your path. May you shine brightly to the new faces you'll meet in Japan (and I hope to hear you speak a little Japanese when you return...You're bound to learn it!).

Feb. 20th, 2010 Spending time with Family

2010-02-20T22:00:00.000-08:00
My mom got to come up and spend a week with us. It was so nice to have her here. And Grandma sure enjoyed the time with three of her kids and of course her grandson. I had so many fun pictures I thought I'd share a few from her visit. Thanks mom for coming up to visit. Even if William may not remember it, I will. I love you.

A good one of all four of us...Mom, Tauna, me and Mar

Mom, William and I went to check out Mar's little kid's tumbling class...William had fun playing with the volleyballs before class started.

We took a dip in the pool...

Out to breakfast...Mamma leaning in for a kiss

A good one of my Mom and Sis

William and his Aunt Tauna

Feb. 18th, 2010 Playing with the baby goats

2010-02-18T21:26:00.000-08:00
We have some dear friends who live close and have a love for animals like no one else. They recently finished birthing around 40 baby goats! They have quite the herd of little "baaaa'ers" and I thought it would be fun to let William check them out. I must say, I think Mamma enjoyed it more than William did. Of course, he probably won't remember any of it anyways (o: We got some cute pictures though!

He was a little timid, but eventually reached out his hand to touch them. It was hard for William to ignore them as they kept coming up to nibble on his jacket!

Getting a little more brave as the visit progresses

The bottlefed babies got a little aggressive when the milk bottles came out...William wasn't too sure about it...

All in all, the day was good. William loves being outside and with the nice break in the rain, he's been able to get his hands and knees dirty. I can't wait till he can help mamma in the garden!

February 7th, Happy First Birthday William!

2010-02-07T15:06:00.000-08:00
I know I've said it so many times and I'm sure it won't be the last, but time flies by way too quickly. I can hardly believe that a year ago today we celebrated the birth of our healthy little William. Now he's a little boy and his parents couldn't be happier.
We celebrated his first birthday with mostly family. I was very pleased at how well he did and what a great day it was. We wish you could have been there Grandpa Terry, Grandma 'Retta and Grandpa and Grandma Pile, but here are some of the highlights to share with you...

Here's The Cake...it turned out to be a delicious attempt at a mint chip ice cream cake with chocolate letters.

The Birthday Boy's indulgence...

We didn't even have to coax him...Need I say more...

He hopped on his John Deere scooter and knew exactly what to do!

He played hard the entire day...And fell asleep in Aunt Lori's arms later that evening.

Feb. 1st-5th Inn at Otter Crest

2010-02-05T14:51:00.000-08:00
We had the priveledge of getting to spend almost a week with Grandma Marsha in Otter Rock at the beach. It was so much fun with William. Curtis was able to come up for a night and then had to return home for work. We had a couple nice days where we caught some time on the beach when the tide was out. Take a look at what we found!

A great big purple starfish!

William had to touch it...Unfortunately it washed away with the next wave of water

Playin' on the playset...

He held himself up for quite awhile!

Playin' cards with Mom...We gave him some cards he could chew and he got the biggest grin on his face.

His first pool experience...I discovered I have a little fish! He was so exhausted by the end that he fell asleep in Grandma's lap.

Jan. 25th, 2010 Not long before he'll be running!

2010-01-25T20:12:00.000-08:00
William's been progressively showing us how he's learning to walk on his own; no mommy or daddy's hands to hold onto. It's pretty cute, cause he'll look at something he wants that's a ways away and just stare like he's thinking about how to get there. Then, he'll just take off and see how far he can get before he falls. I finally captured a few moments on camera...(okay, so I couldn't figure out how to get them right side up. It's not like I shot them sideways!...so sorry)

Jan. 13th, 2010 Some Fun Pics

2010-01-13T22:50:00.001-08:00
Some random fun...

Here's William eating his first oreo...It was hilarious. Grandma gave him the oreo and he kept looking over at me like "Mom, is it okay that I eat this?" I might say that he looks pretty cute with chocolate all over his face.

Later at Grandma's house Dad was going through some newspaper. William decided that it would be fun to spread the paper all over the floor, lay down face first in the mess and flail his arms and legs. He was giggling and having a blast!

Jan. 9th, 2010 Playing the PVC?

2010-01-09T22:04:00.000-08:00
William continues to be more enthralled with Dad's tool bucket than any of his toys. It's funny to watch him pull out every tool. Some he'll put back, other's he'll stick in his mouth and still others he'll throw on the floor. Mom has to watch carefully for those small pieces she hasn't yet found...'Cause even if I don't, William will!

Our latest fascination with William's liking of Dad's tool bucket is his creativity with a piece of PVC pipe. He picked it up and started playing it like a kazoo. Then he'd take it out of his mouth and start pounding on some paint cans like drums. He was pounding so hard there's now a bunch of dents in the top of the paint lids...pretty hillarious to watch. Here's a little video I caught of Dad and William playing together. Of course, the cutest moments you always miss on camera, but I'm just glad I caught some of it (o:

Dec. 28th, 2009 On the Move...

2009-12-28T16:27:00.000-08:00
He took his first steps...Now we'll see how quickly he catches on. I better go get my running shoes!

(Haven't caught it on video yet, but I'm sure it won't be long before we can post a clip.)

Dec. 25th, 2009 William's First Christmas

2009-12-25T16:08:00.000-08:00
What a joy it is to celebrate Christmas with your child. Not that William was really interested in any of the toys, but he LOVED all the paper, bows and lights (don't worry, he got interested in the toys later)!

My parents came up for Christmas so we were blessed to be able to spend Christmas day with both my family and Curtis'. My brother met up with his biological family a couple weeks before Christmas and was actually able to bring his bio brother and cousin along with him on their trip to Oregon. It was nice to meet them and spend some time getting to know them. Here's a pic of one of the Christmas presents we made with them...some handmade marshmallow shooters.

William's Aunt Lori arranged for all the cousins to have matching sweaters. It was way too cute to see them all matching.

I am so blessed to have the family that I do.

Me and my men.

December 16th, 2009 10 months and counting...

2009-12-16T21:40:00.000-08:00
So, our camera went missing for a few weeks...William's now 10 months old and I can hardly beleive how quickly time passes. He enjoys pulling himself up on everything! Mom can't take her eye of him for very long before he's gotten into something (o: He flashes that mischevious smile after I've told him "No" and reaches out to try it again...Just in case mom's changed her mind. He's definitely said the words "Dadda" and "Mamma" and enjoys eating almost anything mom puts in front of him...as well as many things she doesn't (o: Here are some recent pics...

William decided he could help mom with the dishwasher...

My litte boy in his snow hat...minus the snow (o:

Helping Mom wrap Christmas gifts

The smile that melts my heart...Even when he's in trouble.

November 28th, 2009 Thanksgiving festivities

2009-11-28T21:17:00.000-08:00
We had 2 Thanksgiving's this year. Daddy had to work Thanksgiving Day while William and I spent the day at his Mom's with all the step-relatives. It was a great time, as always. It's taken me awhile to get this post up, but I had a few fun pics to post.

Ray, Colby and Jessie decided they'd try William's method of getting around...

Colby just loved William!

The girls (Kennedy & Jessi) and I with William. How they make me laugh.

Our 2nd Thanksgiving was spent in Kelso at my Aunt and Uncle's house. Here's some fun pics from that day too!

One of my favorites...Me and my sweet cousins Syd & Addi

So Sweet...My 93 year old Great Grandma and William...Love it.

My Aunt Lisa and cousin Syd

November 26th, 2009 Thanksgiving trip to MN

2009-11-26T23:21:00.000-08:00
William's first Thanksgiving. We actually made a trip back to MN to visit my Mom's side of the family for the holidays. Curtis had never been and I couldn't remember the last time I had been back to see everyone. We actually left before Thanksgiving Day because Curtis had to work, but were able to spend some quality time with my grandparents, aunts & uncles, and cousins. I'll post a few pics on this post, but there were far too many to post them all. For those who want to see the rest, I'll get them on Facebook...eventually (o:

Some time with Grandma Great. William is her 8th great grandchild!

Having a laugh with Grandpa Great!

Getting to know Aunt Pam

Meeting Aunt Cindy and Todd for the first time...

Getting to know Aunt Cindy's mules while visiting the Amish...
William was quite intrigued

Nov. 16th, 2009 My First Haircut

2009-11-16T23:07:00.000-08:00
Mom decided it was time to give William his first haircut. I know, he hardly has any hair, but those little hair "wings" above his ears were driving me nuts (o: I sat him in his highchair and snipped away. The photos aren't much, but you can see that he decided after the first snip that he wasn't too thrilled with having to sit still. I saved the little "snips" for his baby book.

I also recently gave William a bath in the kitchen sink...Hadn't done that in awhile! It was a nice substitute for our current lack of a bathtub in the house (due to a little remodeling). He loves water; cried when I went to take him out (o:

Nov. 5th, 2009 Pullin' himself up

2009-11-05T16:48:00.000-08:00
It's really not going to be long before William's walking. He's learned that he can muster up enough strength to pull himself up to things and he's loving it! He loves holding onto our hands and walking all around. He gets a huge smile on his face and it's pretty cute. Here's a pic of when he found mom's small stool....A very nice height to pull himself up to. He got into a stand and then just stood there for a very long time. Didn't get frustrated, just talked and smiled and bounced around like "Look at me Mom...Look what I can do!" I even left the room to see if he'd cry. Nope. He enjoyed himself for quite a while until he had to figure out how to get down on his own. He made it...little bump on the head, but he made it. I'm sure there will be many more "bumps" to come.

**William's definitely starting to talk too. He says "Dadda" all the time. And when he's not saying "Dadda", he's just smacking his lips like he's saying it but without any sound. We think he's figured out "Mammaa"...not quite sure yet. He was in Dad's lap and started to cry as he reached out his hands to me and cried what sounded like "Maaammmaa!"

I think I got it Mom...

Climbing to new heights

Nov. 2nd, 2009 #2

2009-11-02T16:42:00.000-08:00
And along came tooth #2...same spot on the top just the other side. Now we're wondering where the front two are..."All I want for Christmas is my two front teeth!" (o: