Catching Up

Now that I'm done with the vacation posts I can go back to posting about our exciting days with Alex!! (she says sarcastically!!)

Alex has had a pretty good week. We are still on the protein strike - and on the "milk in a sippy cup" strike. I did get him chocolate milk and he will drink that from the sippy cup. I hope to slowly switch him to regular milk.

Here are some pictures from the past week.

This is Alex's favorite position. On the couch with Daddy. He LOVES being with his daddy and it's so cute.

I LOVE this picture!! Do you see those eggs on the side of his high chair - yeah - he's not eating them. :)
I don't know what he was shoving in his face on this one, but I'm sure it's a fruit or a carb.

Jay took this picture on Sunday in the nursery at church. I just love his profile.

If you will remember from a previous post - he was a little messy eating yogurt with the spoon. Here's his latest attempt. At this point he had eaten the entire container of yogurt - and he wasn't that messy!! He really likes using his spoon, and he's getting pretty good at it. I guess the fork is next.

We did discover on Sunday night that Alex likes Chinese food. We went out to eat and he ate the inside of almost 2 chicken egg rolls. He couldn't shove it in quickly enough. We may have to eat Chinese every night to get some protein in him.

Alex was laughing and dancing to this toy in the video. Unfortunately he really didn't dance much on the video but he did laugh.

Guatoberfest

If you haven't heard yet - Julia and Kerry are organizing a weekend in Atlanta for use blogger buddies.

We need more people!!! If we don't get another 10 rooms pre-registered, we will lose our group rate on the rooms.

If you are interested in going check out this site.

http://www.guatoberfest.blogspot.com/

Alex and I are going to be there - so come on!! It will be LOTS of fun!!!!

Day 4: Naps!

This was the last full day of the conference. We started the day like we did most days - with the breakfast buffet.

The hotel we stayed at - the Williamsburg Lodge - was beautiful. There were these animal statue type things all over the lobby. Alex LOVED the Dog-Dog (as he calls it) We had to go visit the dog-dog a couple of times a day.

Here is Alex looking at a (we think) peacock. He's trying to sign bird. (it was easier that way - and I didn't know the sign for peacock!!)

As you turned the corner in the hallway around the gift shop, there was a group of animals that Alex also loved. We also had to go look at these animals a couple of times a day.

Alex did take a morning nap on Tuesday. He needed it - and it was nice. By the time he woke up, Jay was done with his morning meeting. We decided to go for a walk around the shops at Williamsburg and get some lunch.

It was HOT (I think I've mentioned that before). We ended up eating at a pizza place (which was very yummy) and looking through some of the shops.

We then started heading back through Historical Williamsburg but it was too hot to walk around too much. We just headed back to the room.

Alex ended up taking another nap and we pretty much just relaxed the rest of the afternoon.

Then we got ready for the eventing festivities. The last night of the conference there is the State Dinner. This is a "get all dressed up, have a nice dinner, dance, drink" type of event. This year they specifically stated that it was for adults only. Reality is that when I bought Alex's Easter outfit this year, I specifically had in mind that he would wear it to the State Dinner at SLC. I wasn't about to not have that happen.

So, we decided to get Alex dressed up, take him down for the pre-dinner reception, I would then take him out to dinner, and we would come back in time for the dancing.

Alex wore his seersucker suit (with saddle shoes) as did his daddy.

They looked SO cute!

Alex charmed everyone again. He and I then went to dinner. It didn't go so well.

I was reminded again how much I appreciate Jay. To all of you single moms out there - I don't know how you do it!! Alex wasn't much in the mood to sit and eat and I know if Jay would have been there, we could have tag teamed him and we would have both been able to eat at least a little bit. I shoved my food in my mouth as quickly as possible - I'm not sure I tasted any of it. (and I had a waitress who seemed to be oblivious to the fact that I had a cranky toddler and I just wanted to get out of there)

Alex and I then went and visited dog-dog - birdie and the animals in the gift shop. After what I thought was an appropriate amount of time, we went back to the ball room area to see if they were done.

Jay came out shortly after we got there - and THEY HADN'T EVEN BEEN SERVED ANY FOOD YET!!! I couldn't believe it. It was closing in on 8:00 and they hadn't even been given their salad yet. Needless to say - there was no dancing - Jay got out as quickly as he could - and we went back and went to bed. :)

I'm Back and HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!

I finished the book last night. It was amazing!! I cried when I finished. (and of course Jay made fun of me) I'm not going to write anything else about the book in case someone hasn't read it yet. If you want to discuss it with me - email me: kimhartz@hotmail.com

Today is my dad's birthday. HAPPY BIRTHDAY DAD!!!! He's at an old tractor auction this morning, so he's having fun. ;) Have a great day!!!!

Talk Amongst Yourself

Ok - I've tried to keep up with blogs, keep up my blog, take care of Alex and read the new Harry Potter book.

I can't do it all.....something has to give......and I've been told I have to keep taking care of Alex. ;)

So - you all need to talk amongst yourselves. Your topic is, "Will Ferrell or Adam Sandler - who is the better comedic actor and why."

I still have a few days of vacation to blog about and have more pictures.

But - for now, I'm going to be concentrating ALL of my free time to finishing the book. (I may even just stay up all night!!)

I'll be back when I'm done!!!

So Funny!

I interrupt the vacation recap to share this video. I thought I was going to die laughing!!!!

Enjoy!

Day 3 - Pool - Yorktown - Shakin' a Booty

The hotel that we were staying in had a GREAT breakfast buffet that we ate it almost every morning. They had a lot of things that Alex liked and was one of the better buffets I've eaten in awhile.

After eating breakfast, Jay was off to his meetings, and Alex and I got ready to go to the pool. He was quite cranky while we were trying to get ready. (I probably should have let him nap!) As we were getting ready, Alex decided it would be more fun to play in his floaty boat.

He then had to go get a book - sit in his boat - and read his book. I was cracking up laughing!!

The pool was lovely. We had a really nice time there. We had two older ladies remark on Alex's beautiful tan. I just smiled and thanked them. ;)

The funniest part was my overhearing the conversation of three older ladies. (Remember, I was at a political conference) These three ladies were all spouses of elected officials in Mississippi, Arkansas, and Louisiana. They were all spouses of Democrats. (remember - Jay and I are Republicans) They just sat in the pool - talking very loudly - about how horrible Republicans are. How we are all evil, pretend to be Christians, and are ruining the country.

Now, being around politics as much as I have, I will tell you that there are good Republicans, good Democrats, bad Republicans, and bad Democrats. It doesn't matter what side of the aisle you are on. I just had to laugh listening to them go on and on. I SOOOO wanted them to ask me about my affiliation. I was planning on telling them that I'm one of those evil Right Wing Christians that are ruining the world!! ;) (and then walk out of the pool!)

Alex and I got back to the room just as Jay was done for the day. He and one of his co-workers wanted to go to Yorktown, so off we went. Alex sort of slept - but not really - wouldn't sit still for the "historical" video - but did better when we got back in the car. Most of Yorktown is a driving tour. I'm embarrassed to say that I fell asleep in the car. ;) I'm not as into the history stuff as Jay is.

We got back in enough time to get showers/baths and cleaned up for Monday night's festivities.

We were supposed to go to the Oklahoma reception (next year's conference is in Oklahoma City), Kentucky Night and then Bush Gardens. We made it to the reception - it was nice - but crowded. Then we were off to Kentucky Night. We decided to take the bus so we wouldn't have to drive. So, stroller, diaper bad and Alex made it on the bus. Just as we pulled into the event the heavens opened up and it POURED. We were outside, in the rain, me in WHITE capris and a cute shirt, Jay trying to push Alex in the stroller UP A HILL, and the rain coming down harder and harder and harder. By the time we made it under cover, I was SOAKED, the stroller was soaked, and my hair was a disaster!!! Luckily I packed stuff to pull my hair up. I was not happy at all.

Alex, though, had a great time. There was a band and he just danced and danced and danced and danced and danced.

I can't believe we didn't get any video of him dancing. It was hilarious. And, of course, he was showing off for all of the pretty girls in the room.

Needless to say, I wasn't much in the mood to go to Bush Gardens after my soaking, so we went back to the room and actually got to bed at a half decent time. (and we found out afterwards that there wasn't much open at Bush Gardens, so we made the right decision.

Day 2 - The Birthday Party and Family Night

Alex and I had a big day planned for Sunday. We were leaving at around 9:00 in the morning to make the 3 hour trip to Soltana's for Derek's birthday.

First of all - Jay thought I was crazy. He couldn't believe that I would take our child - on a road trip - to meet someone that I had only "talked" to over the internet. (which wasn't exactly true - we did talk on the phone!!) I guess I wasn't nervous about it. He did make me promise to call when I got there to make sure that they didn't have us tied up in chains in the basement. ;)

The trip went well - Alex slept for most of it.

Then we got to meet Soltana and her family!! It was so awesome!!! Derek was having fun playing with his friends, and Cerah kept trying to escape! We had a GREAT time. Here are some pictures from the day.

For even more (and better pictures) check out Soltana's blog.

We had a wonderful time - they didn't chain us up in the basement - and we CAN'T WAIT until they come to Kentucky at the end of August!!!

By the way - I was showing Alex a picture of Cerah yesterday from Soltana's blog. He got all excited - leaned in and kissed the computer screen and then tried to give it a hug. SO CUTE!!!

We then drove back to Wiliamsburg (another 3 hours!) and got back to the room in just enough time for us to 'freshen up' and then head out for our Sunday evening event - Family Night!

Family Night took place at the Governor's Palace in Colonial Williamsburg. A drum and fife group came to our hotel and "marched" us over to the Palace. It was hot, but it was really cool. There was food, drink, and cool stuff going on.

The food was good - Alex was still on his protein and vegetable strike! (and of course he was charming EVERYONE that he saw - those old political southern ladies just couldn't get enough of him!!)

They had some old toys available for the kids to try. Here's Alex "playing" with the hoop thing. (you know that hoop that the kids would hit with a stick to make it roll over the ground) He didn't quite get the idea, but had a lot of fun hitting things with the stick.

We then went over to the outdoor stage where they had storytellers/singers/jugglers/etc.

Here was Alex relaxing!

Look how sweaty he is!! (and he's eating a "cookie" - at least that's what we call Fig Newtons!!)

We ended up going back to the room around 9:00. They were going to shoot off fireworks, and we weren't sure how Alex would handle them. He was also very tired (as was mommy).

It was a LONG day - but we had so much fun!!

Vacation - Day 1

Jay really didn't have to do anything on Saturday, so we took it easy in the morning. Since Alex didn't go to sleep until almost 11:00 the night below, he slept in the next morning. (which made mommy and daddy VERY happy)

We went and got breakfast, and then decided to walk around historic Williamsburg. We had barely made it onto the historic grounds, when we discovered this.

Alex has NEVER fallen asleep in his stroller - EVER! I just couldn't believe it. I think he was still pretty tired from the day before and his late night. Jay and I walked around for over an hour with Alex sleeping away. (have I mentioned yet how HOT it was??)

We went back to the room, where Alex woke up. We let him play around in the room for a little bit, and I went out and got lunch. This is where Alex's protein strike began. He refused to eat any protein (or vegetables) the entire trip. It was carbs and fruits the whole time.

After lunch, he was acting tired. Jay took him for a walk while I got a little nap in. When they got back, Jay and I switched. I tried taking him for another stroller ride, but it didn't work twice.

It was getting time to get ready for the evening event. We decided to take Alex out to dinner before the event as we didn't know if they would have any food for kids. (they did!)

Our Saturday night event was at Jamestown. We had the whole center to ourselves. Here are some pictures from that night.

Alex was fascinated by the Native American dancers. The little girl in the center of the picture above was ADORABLE.

It was another late night - Alex didn't get to bed until almost 11:00 again!!

My Car and our Big Road Trip

Jay - being the smart, wonderful, amazing husband that he is (why am I buttering him up? He doesn't read this blog!) - thought it would be a good idea to have the oil changed/car tuned up before our big drive. I thought this was a good idea - and we even had it in enough time to make it work. (the mechanics that we use are inexpensive, but SLOW!!!) I also wanted the cigarette lighter looked at since it wasn't working. For those of you who are worried - no - I didn't take up smoking. We wanted to take Jay's Sirius radio on our trip, and we needed a working cigarette lighter.

So, they called and said that the car was done, but Jay forgot to tell them about the cigarette lighter. Ok - so they were going to look into it, but they didn't get it done soon. Weekend passes, and the car is finally done the Monday before we were to leave. We go pick it up on Tuesday, I'm driving it home, and realize that the air conditioning was now not working. YIKES!!

We take the car back in Tuesday night - tell them that we need this fixed for our trip on Friday - and they assure us that they will look at it.

Yeah right! They didn't look at it until Thursday - found out it was something major ($800 +) and they wouldn't get it done in time for our trip.

I was SOOOOO mad. I just couldn't believe it. So, we ended up having to take Jay's car. He drives a 1987 BMW 3 series. (and please don't be impressed - it has over 250,000 miles on it and is starting to show it's age) It's MUCH smaller than my car (a 1997 Chrysler 300 - is that right, dad?) and I wasn't looking forward to the long drive in a small car. But - there was no way I was going to make this trip in a car without air conditioning. (Isn't that just so shallow!)

We did ok. We were able to fit everything in the car (with the car topper that Jay was smart enough to purchase). It was just a little cramped.

Alex did great. He slept, he ate, he read books, he slept some more. We ended up only stopping twice and we were on the road for 12 1/2 hours!! One of the places we stopped was Tamarack in Beckley, WV. We ate and let Alex walk around a little bit. There was this area outside that had things for kids to play on/around. Here's Alex having some fun.

Alex discovering mulch. I think he only got one handful in his mouth!

Our room was AWESOME!! It was a large room with a bed, a bar area, a sitting area and a fireplace. There was a room with closets, and a sink (kind of a changing area) and then another room with a door that had the tub/toilet/sink. Here are some pictures.

Here's Alex running around like a wild man when we first got there. It was very nice to have this little "room" to put his pack n play.

Those windows opened up to a nice balcony. We never went out there because 1) it was HOT and 2) there was a brick wall but it didn't go all the way across the balcony, and little man would have fit in the gap!! Yikes!!

We're Home - And LOTS of Catching Up!!

We are home! We actually survived our first family vacation. It actually went really well. I also have lots of catching up to do. Lots of pictures - lots of stories.

So, here we go.

A Week Ago

I decided to give Alex yogurt for breakfast. This by itself isn't news. The fact that I tried to let Alex feed himself is. Here is his handiwork.

He started out using the spoon....

And then it quickly went downhill from there!

He was quite proud of himself.

Alex and I then went to an amusement park where we "chaperoned" the kids from our church's youth group. I have chaperoned in quotes as they didn't require any work! They were wonderful. We had fun - but it was a long day.

My next post will be about our vacation.