Letters to Keegan

Life with a two year old...

2012-02-14T19:26:00.001-08:00

Dear Keegan-
You are a riot. You say and do some of the funniest stuff, and I am so thankful I have cameras and smart fancy phones to help capture or pick it up. Here is a little review of some of the stuff you have said and done lately and just some images and footage I have randomly collected. The quality isn't always super because most of these are super random times when I just grab whatever I have with me and hit record, but it sure is worth putting out there for us ALL to remember just how adorable you are these days.

It has been cold as all get out, but you still LOVE to go to the playground, and manage to keep hold of some sort of car or truck in your hand the whole way down. Hey! Remember that time after Mattie' birthday (which I still need to blog about) when I thought it would be cool for us to go back to their neighborhood play set and have some adventures but then it was locked and the password changed? Yeah, like me promising you Disneyland and then Disneyland had burned down? That was awesome!

You and your dad have also taken to exploring the "woods." You have loved hiking with him, taking rides on his shoulders, and running up the mountain near our house!

Having a blast with Colby

This is what you and Andrew were up to when Mom and Dad were watching the Super Bowl at the McKinley's with some friends. You guys were giggling like crazy and had the tub FILLED with push toys, stuffed animals, a step stool, you name it!

Adventures in the basement on a typical night with you!

Another thing you have gotten into recently is singing. You belt out tunes and love for me to make a song up about most everything...like "we saw a forklift...at the home DEE pot!" and other big hits. The funny part is that you have the theme song of Veggie Tales in your head and at the end they vary the pitch up and down and up and down almost like a yodel, so EVERYTHING you sing these days tends to have that fluctuating note on the end. It's sort of like R&B. Not my fave, but you did earn some huge points back after I popped in a Widespread CD in the car and I saw you pumping your fist from your car seat. :)

I admit, once I was convinced you were not on the Autism spectrum, I loosened up a bit and let you watch Thomas. Here you are filling in the blanks of the wretched theme song following my "They're two, they're four, they're six, they're eight..." and you are singing the next line "Shunting trucks and hauling freight!"

Because who DOESN'T wear frog boots with pajamas, sing a train song we discovered on Pandora, and read a construction book with wheels?

We have a pedaler!!!

You also do some really sweet things, like say "no hanks" and "bless you" when anyone within ear shot sneezes. You have come out with "I love you, Mommy" or "Daddy" at some really spontaneous and heart-melting times. You make associations to people and places that literally astound me. Like coffee and newspaper always brings up Grandpa, and we can turn a corner and you KNOW there is a "mango store" (Trader Joe's) nearby. There is a car we have had hostage by accident that you always remind me we need to take back to Andrew, and you can point out your classmate's parents from miles away it seems as we are pulling up to your school. You have become super independent and will open the garage door for guests, like when CC came over the other day and you bolted out to catch her first. You turn lights on and off, wash your hands, and even try to get dressed. We are going to work on the potty soon, because you still go nightly without fail before we get into the tub, and you seem like you might be ready to at least give it the old college try.

In short, you amaze me. You are such a joy, and will be such a great big brother. I cannot wait. I love you to infinity and beyond, little fella!
Mom

Happy Valentine's Day!

2012-02-14T18:49:00.004-08:00

Dear Keegan-
Thanks for being my sweet Valentine today. I would like to start off by thanking you for the handsome dudes you set up for me in our tub...

...and also for the 4:00 am wake up call. The poop in the bath last night was sort of awesome, too. Man, I am one lucky lady!
Ok, so actually I am. Totally 100% lucky. Blessed. However you want to put it. I have been on a mega-organizing kick lately and tearing through this house like a tornado, tossing things right and left, finding unused space and generally making everything around here a little more efficient. Sort of a tall order, because that usually is how I like to run this ship, but let's just say I have been into overdrive lately. So with that organization has really come a sense of calm for me. I just feel at peace with everything in our lives.
We had a great day together, starting it off from a sweet card from your dad and a special set of diggers for you. Currently they are up in bed with you - all 5 of them. You have not let go of them once today, and they traveled in the car, the tub, the sink, and back in bed with you. I don't have the heart to say no, because you aren't really attached to a blanket or "lovey" or anything, so the vehicle of the week tends to be allowed in bed with you these days.
The weather was super yuck here today, so I decided we would take an adventure to the mall - where you love three things: the train, the carousel, and chicken and fries. I guess that's 4 things. Nevertheless, we checked them all off our list. I had a sort of secret agenda to pop into Pottery Barn Kids to scope out a quilt for your big boy bed that is backordered online. Boo. They didn't have it. But, I did get something else, and once we get your bed all set up, I will post some pictures. I think it will be pretty awesome. We decided to hit the food court and carousel first, sitting overlooking some big windows where you were able to drive your diggers in between bites of nuggets.

The carousel ride was next, and this time you headed right for the lame couch one that doesn't move up and down. Thank goodness you were easily swayed to pick the zebra that actually did qualify as a "real" carousel feature in my mind, and then later switched a mere two or three more times before ending up with the unicorn (no, I won't tell Dad that part.)
We got dizzy on the carousel and then headed back (the long way so as to pass a few of my favorite stores coincidentally) to the "train" which could maybe best be described as a sort of scary Russian man with makeshift conductor hat who drives the battery powered vehicle throughout the bottom floor of the mall for a mere 3 minutes and $8 of my well earned money. It was fun, though, and you waved to the onlookers (other jealous kids whose moms weren't so nice) and pointed out your new diggers to the annoying dude with the flat iron kiosk and grouchy woman offering free samples of tea. "Choo Choo!! A-da board!"

To top that, we got a call from Dad, who encouraged us to stop by his station and say "hi." Sure thing! We went to visit him, climb in some fire trucks, and for me to get a lovely bouquet of Thin Mint cookie boxes. Can you say "victory" all around? Your dad knows me pretty well.
Yes, I have already taken down an entire sleeve. It's been like 9 hours!!
So that was most of our morning. We came home for you to nap and me to think about blogging but not quite get it done, and then to try your diggers in a few new spots: the fake moss at the base of some decorative trees upstairs, the indoor sandbox I created and your dad could potentially divorce me over, and the bed, matching them up as we looked at pictures of construction equipment on the iPad. Yes, you say it correctly now. Boo.
Fun times had by all, and I couldn't think of two better loves of my life to spend it with.
Much love, sweetie!
Mom

Trains, trains, trains

2012-01-24T19:10:00.000-08:00

Dear Keegan-

This weekend we went to an event that your grandparents told us about at a train museum in Kennesaw. You are a big train fan these days, and you soak up adventures like this, so we headed out in the gross rain and wind to go see the exhibit they had set up for little train lovers like you.

All aboard!

Testing out the signals

The massive train table

Fun day except for the monsoon that greeted us on the way out. Whoops! Guess we didn't plan well for that.
Love you, little conductor!
Mom

Molly Pipe

2012-01-17T18:55:00.000-08:00

Dear Keegan-
We have some really big, really fun news that you got to help share with our family!
Friday the 13th was the day--a normal school day for you, but for your dad and me, the big day to find out whether your sibling would be a "baby sister" as you kept saying or a baby brother.
Unfortunately your dad had to work that day sort of last minute, so I had to brave this adventure on my own. i dropped you off at school and headed over to the doctor's office. Before the sonographer could get two words out, I blabbed "My husband isn't here and I don't want to know the gender without him so please don't tell me." Relief. I said it. She knew the drill. Ball was in her court to not screw up. I did my part. So I laid on the table and proceeded to hear her explain how this was a really cool ultrasound at 20 weeks and it was a shame your dad couldn't be there. It sort of made me sad, but I knew it was ok. Then she mentioned this "wasn't like an emergency so it could be rescheduled." Really? Let me just hop up off this table with this jelly all over my tummy and call it a day, then. It's not like I have been waiting the past 18 weeks of my life for this or anything. Sure, I'll go grab a bagel and just chill until you get out of school.
What!?! NO! Get on with it.
And she did. She fired that ultrasound machine up and instantly I recognized the little body inside of me. I sort of half closed my eyes, worried I would discover something I shouldn't. I felt guilty so I asked her to make sure to remember to tell me to look away when it was "reveal" time. She started with the baby's brain and worked her way down, checking to make sure everything measured ok and was in the right spot. Check, check, check. "The baby has a brain, two eyes, a nose and mouth (a good looking palate-I asked!), and it is kicking a bunch! This little thing looks like it's waving. Two arms, two legs." Phew! I am letting the breath out a little bit each time she goes down the list. She looked at the heart and stood back and then re-positioned her probe thing. I started to sweat a little bit and I asked if she was concerned. "Oh, sweetie, please don't be nervous. The 4 chambers of the heart are the hardest thing for us to visualize. The baby has to cooperate and be in just the right position for us to get a good look. I am going to enter some stuff into the computer and then I will try again. No problems." So she did just that. She got back on and measured the beats per minute. And I got teary. Just like with you. Just hearing that beating inside me is so special. And then right as I was silently praying for those 4 chambers to pop up, I heard it: "He looks good!" I turned white. I did a silent fist pump hearing the four chambers but then the word "he" echoed in my head. It wasn't bad that it was a "he." It was devastating that I knew this secret without your dad. I couldn't talk. She awkwardly seemed to try and cover it up by even saying "This kid..." Kid? This is an 18 week old baby here, not some punk delivering pizza. Weirdness. I asked for my envelope with the reveal pictures and she explained that they typically give a letter telling the sex. Sure, whatever, lady. Just hand it over and let me get on with my day. "What will we name him? He will already have a sweet closet full of clothes. Wow! I am going to be outnumbered now!" all flying through my head. I somehow made it from the doctor's office to your school to pick you up somehow come up with a lunch and do therapy that afternoon. It felt surreal. I hate secrets. And more than secrets, I hate ruined surprises. So I tried to play it cool and think about other things...anything! You and I played in the basement and ran around a bunch. Your dad was supposed to be home around dinner but I was getting text messages in a steady stream wondering what the outcome was. At about 5 I started getting crazy. He got out of work later than he thought. Then there was traffic. Meanwhile, that envelope was burning a hole in our counter tops. Finally I got the five minute warning. I calmly tried to put on my best poker face and greet your dad by the door. Hugs. Kisses. Open the darn thing! I let him do it because, duh!, I already knew. So I saved the surprise for him. Or so I thought. The next few minutes went a little like this: rip, read, scream, tears (that would be me on the last two!) A girl? What!? She said HE!!! Holy cow! This is not what I planned as of 10:46 this morning. Holy cow! HOLY COW!!! I explained the story to him and we laughed and sat in shock and laughed and hugged and then realized we needed to step on it to make it to the grandparents houses and home in time for you to get a decent night sleep. We made an executive decision to head to Alpharetta due to the traffic on the way to your Beck grandparent's. It should have been their turn to find out first, but there was no way we were going to navigate stop and go traffic with this kind of news! We made it to your Corrigan grandparents with a little surprise for them, even stopping at the front of the driveway with the lights off to make our grand entrance super special. You rang the doorbell and had the "Baby Girl" balloon in tow. Dad picked the tricky "blue in color, but really says "girl"" balloon to throw them off. It worked. It was dark enough that they said hello and gave us hugs and about two seconds later CC screamed "Wait, it's a girl!?" Hugs, kisses, more hugs, kisses. What fun! We played trains, talked about names, and her life plan and then packed you back up to do it all over again. Your Beck grandparents were shocked and squealing with joy, too! We all couldn't be happier, and who better to deliver the news than you, Best Big Brother Ever.

Tricky, huh?

What a great messenger!

Ding dong! I've got some news!

Hooray!

So, we have been talking about this new baby who is coming to live at our house with us. You think she is inside my belly button and occasionally ask to check it out. Funny. I heard from a friend that she felt like talking about a new baby was like promising a kid a puppy in 9 months, so I have tried to tone it down a bit, while still preparing you. So we have asked you what you think she should be named. We have always loved the name Molly, but the name Piper sort of crept up on us and felt like it would fit well with Keegan. So we asked you, "Should we call Baby Sister Molly or Piper." Your answer: Pipe.

So your dad and I have been referring to her as Molly Pipe. You think it's pretty funny. We think you are pretty darn cute.

And there is the story of you delivering the fun news.

We have lots to be thankful for and lots to look forward to. Love you, Keegan Paul.

XOXO

Mom

Merry Christmas!

2012-01-03T19:55:00.000-08:00

Dear Keegan-
Hey! Remember that time when your Dad was like "Um, my wisdom teeth really hurt! I think I am going to get this looked at!" and I was like "Yes, please do that since you have complained about it for at least a few years now and they are certainly not making you any wiser" and then he was like "Hey! I went and they need to take 3 of them out" and I was like "Okay! Let's do this!" and then he was like "How about December 23rd?" and "By the way, they are sort of worried my face will be paralyzed!"
... And I was like "This is my life...."
Well that time was this year. Christmas. Boooo.
I jest. It was the worst timing ever, true, but your dad was in a world of hurt and requiring something like the most complex surgery EVER on the face of the planet, so we made arrangements for a Corrigan sleepover for you and I woke up at 4:45 (yes I am still trying to get mileage out of that favor) and drove him to the surgeon to do a pre-office hours removal. Long story a little shorter, it is January 3rd and he is still trying to recover. It was rough, but he was a total trooper and made the best of the bad timing.
Here is a recap of all the other stuff that we did in the past week or so.

Christmas eve at Grandpa and CCs! They brought the train table downstairs for even easier access for you. How great is it to have grandparents who redecorate their home for your comfort?? Pretty awesome, methinks.

3G (Great Grandma Gert) with her two grands. We couldn't quite get everyone looking at the same camera, but it was still a pretty cute moment!

Adam and Jessie and "Baby Mattie" - poor girl is almost one and I fear that you may call her this for life!

Daddy trying his best to smile through the pain but still pretty swollen from surgery about 24 hours prior!

Taking Mattie for a ride as your caboose!

Traditional family Crackers, filled with paper hats, cheap party favors, jokes to only be read in a foreign accent, and LOTS of laughter!

Even you got in on the phone with the paper hats!

Sweet roller coaster from Daddy and me!

Helping Mattie out with the opening and showing her your prized new truck book from 3G!

Santa brought you some good stuff, too! I love the look on your face!

Santa brought you this great car track/parking garage. CC helped you test it out...

...and Grandpa got in on the action too!

We spent Christmas with your Beck grandparents on the 26th. What a cute picture of you guys!

Sort of awesome when you are the only boy grandchild and the only grandchild around for Christmas. I thought the gifts were never going to end!

Papa gave you a ride on the mower, too, since you love to do that!!

You also have gotten a pretty big kick out of my big present from Daddy, my ipad (or as you call it, "Mommy's ipag!") Why not put Dad's goggles on your head, climb up on the coffee table, and take a turn?

So here we are in the new year.

We are so thankful for you and our family, that Daddy is healthy, and that we will be a family of FOUR in 2012. We'll talk more about that later, but we truly are BLESSED!
Big hugs, my love, and Merry Christmas!!

Mom

It's the most wonderful time of the year!

2011-12-22T19:17:00.000-08:00

Dear Keegan-
The Elf is back, Rudy the Rudolph is chilling in your glider, and Colby is decked out in his fancy green and red collar. It's Christmas! Yippee! You helped us decorate the tree this year, and though I think you may have taken more ornaments OFF than you actually put on, it was so wonderful having you look up with saucer-sized eyes at our little tree in sheer amazement.

We took our annual trip to look at lights on houses and I got to pick out our next house in my dream neighborhood over in Milton. We had a funny thing happen because Dad thought he had a new place for us to add to our rotation. We searched and searched and he called some of his firefighter buddies hoping they would have more detailed directions for us. Nobody could figure out the road we were looking for, and finally the combination of my phone, GPS, and some good old common sense helped us realize poor Dad had seen the address from a Facebook friend who lived in Milton, FLORIDA, not GEORGIA. OOPS! Too funny! Needless to say, you were sort of over being in the car by this point and were more interested in your CARS dvd than the lights synced to music, but we got our fix and checked "driving around looking for lights" off of our 2011 Christmas bucket list.

I decided to take a few days off PRIOR to Christmas this year because I always have a case of the post-holiday blues and regret that I didn't take more time to stop and smell the poinsettias beforehand. This year I wisened up and your dad and I again happened to be off on the Tuesday before the big day. Thinking I wanted to immerse myself in some more Christmas cheer, we decided to head to the mall. Being mostly done with my shopping, it was going to be a leisurely time of watching the hustle and bustle and walking around as a family. Well, once we got there, we had no time to relax. We were greeted by the train and then ventured up to do the carousel ride. It was like Disney World to you. We had a lot of fun watching you relish every single second. I laughed when we got to the carousel and you requested the reindeer of all animals to ride. Guess who else loves this time of year?!?

Dad had a hard time catching us whiz by him. You are in the next tow back behind the large tiger. It was super fun! And we had a pizza party (we call it that whenever any of us eats pizza) and chicken and fries (your meal) at the food court, too. Felt like I was 15 again. Except I didn't use to ride the carousel at the mall...or walk hand in hand with a two year old. Nevertheless, it was awesome.

Merry Christmas!
Love,
Mom, your fearless train and carousel partner

Diggers!!

2011-12-13T12:25:00.000-08:00

Dear Keegan-

Have I mentioned your love for anything construction related?? Well, your dad and I decided to take you on a little adventure on a rare mutual day off to watch the planes take off and land at a local airport and we stumbled upon this goldmine on our way there. Pardon the pun, because there was no gold, but we did see tons and tons (literally, again) of dirt, asphalt, and glorious front loaders, excavators, and dump trucks. Can you tell I have gotten quite the education from reading books and watching shows with you that explain all about these various vehicles??

This cool little spot had a large deck overlooking a rock quarry where there was so much activity I thought maybe we would come have a picnic and watch them again some day in the spring. Roarrrrr!

Love you, little construction dude!

Mom

All aboard!

2011-12-04T18:19:00.001-08:00

Dear Keegan-
You and your Grandpa have had some great quality time as of late. You make up silly names for things, invent funny games, and even have a soundtrack to your adventures that goes a little something like this: "KeeganandGrandpaKeeganandGrandpa." I always tell people we are so thankful to have our family so close and it really is true. It is so wonderful not only to have the help while Daddy and I work, but just how well you know both of your grandparents is so awesome.
Last week was a big week of two full days with Grandpa, since Dad was working extra and Mimi was out of town. One of your days was spent in school and then playing at home, and the next day Grandpa came up with a great plan for the two of you.
You went to the Southern Railway Museum to get a load of some trains. It was like Disney World. But better. Grandpa took a ton of pictures which I was able to upload so I will document the rest via images. All I know was that you had LOTS to talk about that night once I got home. Your brain and mouth were going about a mile a minute until your head hit the pillow and you cashed out. It was the measure of a great day.
Thanks, Grandpa! We sure love you lots!

What a fun day!

Love you, little conductor!
Mom

Updates

2011-12-04T17:48:00.001-08:00

Dear Keegan-
Have I mentioned that you do some really funny stuff? That I love being your mom more than anything else in the world? More than Orla Kiely bags, sour patch kids, and Widespread Panic...COMBINED??
So if I have forgotten any of those things, forgive me. Here are a few more things I should mention as of late:
1. Guess who is 13/14 on the potty? No, not Dad. YOU!!! We bought a little potty many months ago (literally, like when you were a little over a year) because you started notifying me of your "number twos" as they happened. I thought maybe you were going to be the earliest kid potty trained ever. Well, not quite, but maybe the smartest little whippersnapper ever. You quickly figured out that telling me about "your business" meant me ripping you away to promptly re-diaper you. Not so fun when you are in the middle of playing, you realized. And therefore the potty has been collecting dust for almost a year. Recently you started getting a kick out of taking a tinkle in the tub (yum) and I started realizing it seemed almost volitional. On a whim, I mentioned trying out the potty, and low and behold after sitting on it for a few seconds, you created a little puddle. YEAH!! So we now put you on during the transition from day-type diaper to night and you are 93% accurate with little to no prompting! (Had to insert that dorky little SLP reference there.) Point is we are really proud of you. Granted I have no idea what to do now, but we are enjoying seeing you so proud of yourself going on command and then jumping up to do the exciting part of flushing it into the big potty. Gotta love the little things.
2. Along the lines of growing up so fast, I would like to announce that you, my friend, are also now sleeping in a pseudo-big boy bed. It's amazing! I was realizing that hurling your 32 pound self over the railing of the crib down to the floor where we had lowered your mattress was not the most comfortable or ergonomically efficient method of putting you to sleep. Not to mention the part where you think it is funny to get limp like a noodle as I am carefully lowering you. So, Black Friday became Big Bed Friday at our house. I decided to remove the front face of your crib, thus making it like a daybed (still with mattress on the floor). You thought it was awesome. You jumped, stepped up and down and ran around like a crazy man. Too funny. We had a chat about staying in the bed, as your dad and I were nervous that you would be out and about as quick as we could tiptoe out the door. I should add that you are skilled at opening things and blessed in the height department so you can open doors, push the button to open the garage door, etc...Basically it terrified both of us to think of you not confined in your ~~baby jail~~ crib. So, I tried it out for the first time during your nap. You initially got out twice but I had been staked outside your door should said escape plan be enacted. I tucked you back in and we had a little talk about remaining in the bed until you woke up and at that time you would need to call for Mommy or Daddy to come get you. A few minutes later you were quiet, I went about my business, and the next thing I know it is an hour and a half later and you are calling for me. I threw open the door to check the situation and potentially catch you in the act, but lo and behold you were sitting up with a cup of Joe reading the New York Times! (Ok, not the last part, but you were just bright eyed waiting for me to come get you liked we talked about!) Nice!! And ever since then it has been the same deal. We do respond rather quickly to your first call, but you still have been up there patiently waiting EVERY time. I am so proud.
3. And I have another instance at school to brag about. I picked you up on Friday and Ms. Beth handed you over to me but sort of paused like she wanted to tell me something. She called over to Ms. Janice and asked "did he do it by himself?" to which she responded "yes!" Now I was eagerly waiting to hear what was next since I wasn't sure exactly whether it was good or bad, and she said "I have to tell you the sweetest thing Keegan did today!" (sigh of relief) "Avery was wrestling to get her coat on for playground time and Keegan saw she was having trouble and helped her put it on! He is going to melt some hearts someday!"
Um, already done, lady. Already done.
You have such a kind spirit, little guy. I love that you are so great to your school friends. And I do love that your teachers remember that stuff to tell me. I get a lot of mileage out of those stories!

And just to make things not ALL sappy, I had to post this little gem. That's Colby's stocking on your foot. I think the whole concept of hanging socks up near the fireplace has you totally confused. But hey, nice hat, Santa!

XOXO
Mom

Thanksgiving...rounds 2 and 3

2011-11-30T12:09:00.000-08:00

Dear Keegan-
We got to celebrate Thanksgiving two more times this year with your Mimi and Papa and then with your Corrigan grandparents. I will try and do my best describing the first because I ended up with a major camera/memory card malfunction that day. Totally inconvenient since you had a blast with your cousins also celebrating Christmas early with them. Sad face.
And here goes:
This year Lindsey brought the girls down from Nashville for a Thanksgiving and Christmas combo day. They will be in Colorado over the real Christmas holiday so we decided to exchange gifts and merry wishes that day instead. You played your heart out with Aslyn and Odyssey, keeping us busy trailing you guys from the basement to the upstairs to outside. You got to ride on Papa's "tractor" a.k.a riding lawnmower and play monkey in the middle while your dad threw the football in their backyard. You ate some non-traditional Thanksgiving food, though I thought you would have loved the sweet potatoes and yummy bread your Mimi made (among like 19 other things). Instead, you settled on chicken nuggets, blueberry muffin, dried mangoes, and applesauce. Just like the pilgrims, again, right? I, of course, stuffed my face til the point of food coma and enjoyed laying low while you kids ran around like wild Indians. (Note: Should that say wild Native Americans?) (Next note: not sure...don't mean it as offensive. Sorry those that this might apply to.) We made it home later that night with a new train set from your cousins--tons of track and trains complete in a big Rubbermaid bin (one of my favorite things in itself). You took some of the trains up to bed with you and were ready and raring to use it as soon as you woke up the next morning.

Well, thank goodness we could take some of those trains with you the next morning to CC and Grandpa's house, where your big train table is housed. It was Black Friday and a big day of shopping for CC, Aunt Jessica and I was about to begin. You and Grandpa had plans of your own since Dad was at work and he agreed to watch you during our annual ~~spending~~ shopping spree. You guys played a bunch inside, went on a (toy) motorcycle ride outside, and I think made a visit or two to their neighborhood playground to throw some rocks in the lake and try out the swings.
Us girls did some shopping and eating and then CC and I came back to you and Grandpa when you had just woken up from your nap. We decided to head home a little bit before dinner, since Colb Colb had been solo most of the day and we needed to get ready for our Thanksgiving meal with them the next day.
Saturday morning we packed up the car with Colby, fixing for the mac and cheese I was going to make, and all the luggage you and our big dog require for an overnight trip. Since the next day was Sunday, and Daddy was working an extra shift that day, we spent the night with your grandparents for a fun change of scene. Adam and Jessica came with Maddie around 11:00 and we all got comfortable to watch the Georgia game. You had your Georgia Santa hat on and some of the streamer shakers I STILL have from my glory days as a freshman up in Athens. Go Dawgs! We ate some yummy appetizers, hung out, cheered on the team, and visited. You played so well with Maddie and took a nap for a decent amount of time, too. I love that you can entertain yourself and play so gently with Maddie and other kids so that I don't have to hover around you like I used to feel like I had to when you were younger!
We ate a big, delicious meal and as usual had lots of laughs, and shared and reflected what we were thankful for. I think when it was your turn, your automatic thought was probably trains and cars, so you asked to get down and head into the toy room. Next thing we knew you were flying past the dining room on your toy motorcycle. Yes, I think we know you pretty darn well.
We rounded out the night with a few of our favorite grown up games (The Game of Things and Guesstures) and then put our stuffed selves to bed.
We have so much to be thankful for, as always, and you, my friend, are at the top of my list.
I love you, little turkey!
Mom

Even in the middle all of her cooking, CC still offered to take you on a "motorcool" joy ride down by the tennis courts. She rules.

Home of the Bulldogs, and one wild turkey.

My happy camper...just toting the bus around

I couldn't decide because these all were so cute. I'm your mom. I'm allowed to be partial.

Showing Maddie how the trains go

"Are you ready for the ride of your life? I know you can't walk yet, but why don't I try and and race you across the hardwoods at lightning speed? It will be awesome. I promise."

Say What?

2011-11-19T19:24:00.001-08:00

Dear Keegan-

You are an absolute nut. You crack me up daily. This little gem is of you while we were waiting for your latest round of antibiotics. Stevie Wonder, perhaps? I died. Hilarious.

There are a few other key things that you say that I feel the need to post to help me remember your funny vocabulary. Following is a list of silly ones from your current vocabulary:

Concumin--computer. (This one gets stuck in my head a lot so I am afraid I have probably reinforced it by saying it a few times. It has a nice ring to it.)

Alligator--currently means elevator, excavator, in addition to it's true meaning

Too loud--generally means "I can't hear it very well"

Purple Haze, Big Cheese, Mom Van, Fast Food -- some of the names of your Matchbox cars, courtesy of Grandpa

and the others are just cute:

"Daddy be so careful" -- when we passed Dad running on the road while we were headed to school

"Go get it!" -- cheering Daddy to go fast during said run

Smooches, Silly Goose!
Love,
Mom

Thanksgiving feast...#1 of 3

2011-11-18T11:14:00.001-08:00

Dear Keegan-
Happy early Thanksgiving!
We got to celebrate by having a feast with you and your class on Friday. Among other things, I was thankful that Dad was off work so we both got to be there.
I was not thankful that Dad signed us up to bring turkey sandwiches and pasta salad (hello...drinks? paper plates??) but after an email to Ms. Beth clarifying that I truly should be making little triangle sammies for you kids, I felt better about my lack of expertise in the cooking department.
So...we packed our stuff up and got to your school for the 11:30 feast time. We helped get the food set up and mingled with some of the other parents while you kids finished playing on the playground. And the rest I will describe via pictures...

All of you kids were sort of shocked and confused to see us hanging out in your classroom. I snapped this one of your first seeing us. Notice your buddies Avery and Garrett with that "deer in the headlights" look. :)

We got to sit at your little circle tables and eat turkey sandwiches (wow, those were good!), fruit salad, cheese and crackers, chocolate cake ball pumpkins, and goldfish crackers. You know, the stuff the pilgrims ate...

After you got your fill, you hopped up to show off some of the cool things you have in your class. Ms. Janice is on the right there and she is the assistant teachers.

No rest for the weary, turkey. Get busy hammering!

Some of your cute artwork hanging in your classroom. I love it!!

At the end of the party we lined you kids up to take a group photo (minus your buddy Hank, who was out of town.) You all sat so still and while we had you there, Ms. Beth and Janice led you in a few rounds of "Jesus Loves Me" and "Wise Old Owl." It was so cute to see you all sit and sing and watch so intently. I love this school for you so much!

On that note, I thought I would include some of the email response that Ms. Beth sent to me when I was in my turkey sandwich panic..

"Thank you so much for the kind words; Keegan is such a wonderful child. His smile and heart could launch a thousand rockets. Janice and I were talking today about how spoiled we are. We have such a great group of kids and parents. You have done a super job with Keegan; he is so happy and well-adjusted."

I am so proud of you, turkey lurkey...and so thankful!

Love,

Mom

GOOOOOO Dawgs!

2011-11-13T21:57:00.000-08:00

Dear Keegan-
It was music to my ears to hear you chant "GOOOOO Dawgs, Sic Em, Wooo-Wooo-Wooo-Wooo-Wooo" the last time we turned on the TV to a football game. You even like to call that out when we pull in the garage and you recognize the G logo magnet on our outside fridge. You can imagine that when we walked into Sanford stadium last week that I got a little choked up to be behind you, walking with Grandpa, and seeing you on top of Dad's shoulders in total awe. I have come along way since the student section (ahem, 11 years ago.)
It was a typical crisp fall day in Athens-fans everywhere, us fighting to find a parking space, and a little tailgating before heading down to the stadium. It was magical!!

Wow!

Go Dawgs!

We took turns taking you down near the field which is where you preferred to be! When you get a little bigger I will tell you the story of me being on that field...wahoo!!

Dad and I had to keep tradition by taking a "selfie" from our seats

This was so awesome! We were walking near the hedges when Hairy Dawg came by for pictures. Naturally, I made sure we got our turn and even if we couldn't quickly catch you smiling about it, this one is imprinted in my Georgia girl brain FOREVER!!!

It's great to be a Georgia Bulldog (and a bulldog mom)!

Love you, sweetie!

2011-11-01T19:06:00.000-07:00

Dear Keegan-
I have to share with you one of the coolest things that happened to us today. Let me paint a picture for you since this wasn't a moment I had the camera ready.
I picked you up from Mimi and Papa's a little bit later than usual due to a new patient I had at work from 5 until 6 today. We talked about your day, and you had some crackers and watched some Sesame Street in the car on the way home. I was thinking about what to quickly make us for dinner, how I hoped Colby didn't get into the Halloween candy, and how I had to get the garbage and recycling out tonight when we pulled onto our street and you spotted the neighbor kids waving at our car. Right on cue, I hear an excited "kids!" from the backseat, and I tried to reason with you about how it was getting dark and we needed to just head inside and get started on dinner. Next thing I knew the kids ran up to the car in the driveway. I stopped before pulling in the garage to pull down the back windows and let you say hi. It was then that sweet Christopher (our 4th grade neighbor across the street) eagerly asked "Can he play?!!!"
And there melted my heart. You, in all your two year old glory, were the one the kids were running to come greet and ask to play with. It was the sweetest thing. So, yes, of course, dinner, Colby, and garbage waited. We ran around with Christopher and Evan and Emma and then came inside.
I am so proud of how much fun you are, how you can light up a room, or shall I say the front yard, running in circles with the big boys and girls. You are such a joy and I feel the same way as those sweet neighbor kids when I race in after work to see you or upstairs to get you after a good nap.
Much love and hugs, sweet, fun Keegan!
XOXO
Mom

Curious Beck

2011-11-01T18:51:00.000-07:00

Dear Keegan-
We had a blast partying it up for Halloween with neighbors, friends, and family this year. I tried to take lots of pictures to help tell the story, so hope this helps you remember how much fun we had. One of my friends' sweet little boys saw your picture and thought you should be called Curious Beck. I think that pretty much fits. Your costume was hard to find and sort of on the flimsy side, but it was definitely a hit, and I thought you looked adorable.

The McKinleys hosted a costume party for you kids. It is hard to believe that it was two years ago now that we were lining up all you new little babies at their house for a Halloween picture!

Annie was adorable in her homemade (can you believe it?) chicken costume. Please check out the yellow rubber gloves on her feet. Love it!

Landon loved going through the tunnel and I was so excited to catch him mid-action. Poor guy took a little spill right in time for a black eye on Halloween. He still was a pretty cute little frog!

Little fairy Ashlyn on a firetruck. Too funny. She doesn't miss a beat!

I think I might have caught Taylor red-handed in this picture, but I had to include it of the two girls. Taylor had a colorful witch costume and Livi was dressed in a button down and jeans mimicking her daddy. She even had a fake beard! Ha!

Dava was a UPS girl, complete with packages to deliver. I told her to be sure NOT to smile for this picture. Thank God for reverse psychology, because I think this big girl was over the little kid party by this point!

Andrew as Super Pumpkin. I have to include the fact that Andrew's pumpkin front is actually a dog costume!! Throw on a cape, and there you have a costume fit for a super hero (who was not super jazzed about dressing up!)

We are glad he did because we had FUN with him later!!

Daddy and Keegan listening to some tunes on Halloween. (Note the guitar in hand)

Checking out this whole pumpkin carving thing...

"Okay--I will stir it up"

"What the ---? Are you kidding me right now? YUCK!"

Trick or treating with ~~Andrew~~ Super Pumpkin!

Happy Halloween!

"This is a little weird"

Ding dong!

The best part about watching you trick or treat was the fact that you would ring the doorbell and try to run inside everyone's house. It was seriously the funniest thing I have ever seen. You totally did not get the idea of what its all about, which is totally fine, because it's a pretty weird tradition. What can I say? You were CURIOUS!!

"Before we ring their doorbell, lets bang on their garage a bunch!"

This was a pretty grand entrance. You were a very brave monkey to walk through this one!

It was a long walk on those monkey legs. Thank goodness for "shoulders-daddy!!"

Can't wait to do it again next year!

Love,

Momma Monkey

Fall Festival

2011-10-29T06:39:00.000-07:00

Dear Keegan-
I always used to love summer and winter and sort of think the in between seasons were just "okay," but every since I became a mom, I have grown to love this time of year. Sitting outside and watching you chase the big kids playing in the yard, or going on walks and looking at all the beautiful changing trees are some of the things that make me just want to freeze this time of year. I just love it. We also seem to have so many fun events during this time, and now that you have started school, we got to take part in another one--your fall festival!
This week I had a meeting the day of your festival but I was technically off work. You hung out with Grandpa while I went downtown and then after you woke up from your nap at their house, we made our way home to feed Colby and then got your costume on and met CC at your school. Daddy was at work on Wednesday, so he couldn't make it. But he loved seeing the pictures and hearing about how funny you were.
You got to decorate a pumpkin, play some carnival games, and jump on the inflatables in the gym. It was a really cute event. Here are some pictures to help tell the story:

This one actually wasn't from the festival, but I had to sneak in a picture of how much you love wearing your new backpack from GG. You really love to store your cars in there, which is pretty funny considering that there are so many it sort of makes you wobbly and "back-heavy" but it really is the cutest!

Pumpkin decorating!

You sure have some grandparents that love you like crazy, George!

Playing some carnival-type games like rolling golf balls down a track. Not too shabby!!

I don't know how we got you out of the bouncy house. You loved it and I thought you would never leave. I kept worrying about other big kids knocking you around but you certainly held your own.

Not afraid of the big slide! You climbed up the ladder and slid down all by yourself. Like 27 times! Very brave!

Posing for a picture with Grandpa and the scarecrow outside your school!

What a great night!

Love you, Curious George!

Mom

MHS is the BEST!

2011-10-29T06:09:00.000-07:00

Dear Keegan-
Last Friday we decided to go to my high school homecoming football game! It was a beautiful fall night and we had CC and Grandpa meet us to come watch too. You were in heaven riding on Daddy's shoulders, chasing after the Eagle, and watching the big kids on the field. Go MHS!!!

You loved riding on Daddy's shoulders!

I see sports commentating in your future...
(actually I think you were watching the cheerleaders or some little girls playing down below. Oh dear!)

GO Eagles!

Thanks to CC for chasing you around all night! What a blast!

We had such a great time! I can't wait to do it again!!
Love you, buddy!
Mom

Birthday Bonanza

2011-10-22T05:48:00.000-07:00

Dear Keegan-
We had the best weekend! You and your dad celebrated birthdays this weekend and we had so much fun partying with our family and friends!
I have to say that this one hit me a little harder and that I just can't believe how fast it has all gone by. I mean, I know that CC and Grandpa still say that about me 26 (okay, 33) years later, but I really felt it this year for some reason. I shed some tears dropping you off at school just reminiscing about you as a baby, but then my sadness was quickly overcome by you bouncing out of your car seat and happily running in to see your friends in your class. My how you have grown! And, my oh my, how much I love you!
We took some homemade car-shaped sugar cookies for you to share with your class. I kept a few unfrosted for you, Picky Pants, and I know you loved them! You had some pictures taken at school and got to wear a crown they made for you. We came home and played with Dad and tried to get him to wear his birthday crown too. We were very festive!
We actually ended up scoring in the birthday entertainment department, as Dad found a guy to help fix the wood floor (in the 11th hour) and you thought watching them work with the saw, nail gun, and other various noisy tools was absolutely the coolest. I frosted cupcakes like it was my job and got ready for our parties the next day while you took a nap, and then when you woke up we spent some quality time outside (which is pretty much your favorite these days). The kids were outside and you loved chasing them and rolling down the hill trying to do cartwheels like they were doing, and kicking the soccer ball, and throwing the football. We were outside so long, but I don't think you would have chosen to spend your birthday ANY other way.
Since you and Dad share a birthday and this year was his big 30th, I planned a smaller family party for you in the morning and a big neighborhood get together for Dad Saturday night. It was a busy weekend. But, so fun. Here are some pictures of it all:

Happy birthday. Now get to work! (Don't worry, I double checked it was unplugged before I got my camera to capture this impromptu turn you took at the saw!)

Your sweet Dad surprised you (and me!) with this awesome work bench he made for you by hand. It sits perfectly next to his tool box and you think it is pretty cool.

We decided to do presents BEFORE dinner and cake so we could have some daylight left to use your cool new toys. You got a leaf blower, saw, and mower from us. Just like Dad. You were SO excited!

Dad also made some special hooks for you to hang your new tools right next to his. How cute is that?!

You were very serious about blowing the grass off and keeping your safety goggles on!

Dad wanted to do some last minute yard touch-ups so it was a perfect chance for the two of you to use your lawn tools.

Happy 30th birthday, Dad! We love you so much!

Happy 2nd birthday, Keegan! I wonder what you are wishing for!!

The set-up for your party Saturday morning. I made apple and grape cars, race car cookies, stoplight krispie treats and some cupcakes. I had a lot of fun getting it together for you. I think it turned out really well, and since you were so happy, I was thrilled.

Mostly for decoration cupcakes! (You are not a huge fan of sweet stuff!)

Dad grilled some great burgers for us!

You with two of your Beck cousins, and your bestie, Andrew!

Happy birthday to you!

Sweet Mattie trying out my "road."

Present time. What is this?!?

Yeah!!! A digger!! (from CC and Grandpa!!)

So fun!!!

Mr. Scott helped you with the cool remote control jeep they got you. Nevermind the Tupperware in the corner. We were trying out different things for you to pick up with your bulldozer!

Enjoying the cookie too much to take smile breaks while posing with your Beck grandparents. But you were so glad to have everyone around that you love so much.

and same thing for pics with CC and Grandpa! (*those cookies WERE pretty good!) We love you, CC and Grandpa!

The Andrew and Keegan landscape company. Established Oct 2011.

Your big cousin, Aslyn

Aunt Lindsey

We had a great time! Happy birthday, little buddy!

Punkin punkin punkin punkin punkin

2011-10-08T12:38:00.000-07:00

Dear Keegan-
We had such a fun fall day today! The weather was gorgeous and you had a special treat of your Grandpa and CC coming over to go to the pumpkin patch with us. Daddy had to work today, but now that we tested it out, we will know where and when to go next year.
First, Grandpa and CC surprised you with some fun Halloween books. You loved to listen to Grandpa read you the Curious George one and CC helped you with the lift-the-flap spooky surprise book. We read those before your nap today and you loved them all!
We showed them around some of the new and different changes in the basement and upstairs and then climbed in the car to go. When we arrived we saw our good friends and old neighbors, Kim and Patrick and Kara! We talked to them for a little bit and then checked out some of the farm animals. There was a goat (which CC kept calling a cow) and an old sheep. There were some chickens and a random dog. Y-uck. They were sorta stinky. And more than sorta mangy. I promise we will get you to the zoo one day, but this mom is not a huge farm girl, ya know?!
We did get to check out a machine making ice cream (and lots of noise). Grandpa held you and bounced to the beat it was making and you thought that was pretty funny. Hey-Baskin Robbins in your future like your madre, maybe???
Then we waited in line to take the hayride to the pumpkins. You were pretty pumped about the tractors pulling the hayrides and you played your own tractor spotting game while we waited a bit. We loaded up and bumped down the dirt road to the patch.
We said goodbye to the tractor (and, I think you said "goodnight" too) and walked through the rows of little baby pumpkins. They were pretty cute.
We walked through a field of cotton (the fabric of our lives) and then found the bigger pumpkins, and a large crowd of moms, dads, and grandparents scoping the perfect pumpkin shot. You found some great pumpkins to try and pick up, kick, or sit on. You did a nice job locating the gourds and other odd-looking produce that did not seem to belong.
Then, behold, another tractor came by to whisk us back to pumpkin headquarters. You hopped up on the tractor and I think snapped your fingers to get our driver going. Never mind the mothers and babies flying off the back. "Let's let this tractor stretch its legs! What does it do-like 0-2 in 5.7?"
We got to try out another tractor for you to sit on and steer and then you climbed up into the playground/tree house. Shout out to CC for helping you (and at least 7 other kids) on the vertical ladder.
What fun!
And, what sounds better after pumpkin patching than some Chick-Fil-A? (Don't think about the farm animals right now. Don't)
We zoomed back to reality (Roswell) and gave you some "chicken and fries" and some playtime in the play place. (You are welcome for chilling out a bit on the germ phobia). You are also welcome for the 6 times I sanitized your hands afterward.
Fun day, pumpkin buddy. Glad you are taking a nice nap and resting up for a big week ahead. I hear someone is turning two! (And someone else is turning 30!)
Much love, little farmhand.
Mom

Baby pumpkins are the cutest! Like you!!

Hay ride!!!

Hey, Goat?!? Cow? What are you??

One of these things is not like the other, one of these things is not quite the same...

This one looks good, I think.

Apparently you missed the "no kicking pumpkins" sign. You were determined to get them rolling.

You been farming long?

Did we mention how much you loved the tractors?

Thanks for helping me in the tree-house and slide, CC!

Stay thirsty my friends...

2011-09-26T18:22:00.000-07:00

Dear Keegan-
I'm going to take a few moments to discuss some of the shenanigans you have been up to now that you are nearing your 2nd birthday. See above for exhibit A. Not sure how a milk/water mash up would taste, but leave it to you to try it out. Ick.
Let me also share the recent "Matt!" you have been shouting from upstairs trying to get your dad's attention like I would. "Matt!!!" Ha.You're nuts.
Well, I should be a little more careful with calling you that, or any other name for that matter. Lately if I ask you a question with "buddy" or "silly" at the end of it, you have developed a new tendency to repeat that part back to me as well. Let me illustrate this point a bit further:

Me: "Keegan, do you want the milk OR the water, silly?"
You: "Watersilly"
Me: "No, I meant the...(giggling and aborting mission)..."

In the food and drink realm, I am also a little embarrassed to admit that while we play with your toy barn or read a book with farm animals in it, you now refer to roosters and the like as "chickenandfries." Perhaps we need to lay off the nuggets, fella.

I am proud to say that the treadmill is back out in the basement and I am ready to use it. This mom is gonna get those last few baby lbs off sooner or later. Even if you are practically driving now. Good thing I have you to motivate me, too. So maybe one of us has put it to good use. And that one, my friend, is you. You like to hang from the handrails, jump from the front of it, and drive your cars down it like the Autobahn. (All while it is unplugged and off, of course).

You are a riot, and you definitely keep me on my toes.
I wouldn't have it any other way!
Stay thirsty my little monkey,
Mom

With pride...

2011-09-10T21:07:00.000-07:00

Dear Keegan-
Today is a very significant day in our country with the 10th anniversary of the awful attacks on our country. I know you are too young to understand all of that right now, but one thing you can start learning and understanding is how thankful we are for people, like your dad, who choose to put their own lives at risk to help others. So many people did so that day, now 10 years ago.
It isn't the most glamorous or high paying job, and the schedule can really suck. But, we are so proud of your dad and we are so thankful he works so hard for us and for all the people he helps everyday.
Here are some pictures from the last time we visited him on shift. We love him and he loves you dearly. God Bless America, and God Bless your super hero dad.
With love and a whole lot of pride-
Mom

This one melts my heart. You surprised Dad by literally running to him! He was so thrilled!!

The smiles on you two...(lump in my throat)

Hey guys!!!

Labor Day

2011-09-10T20:47:00.000-07:00

Dear Keegan-
We had an awesome opportunity to go on a trip with lots of friends for labor day. We had such a great time, I am still reeling from finally getting to the beach with you. I am going to try and tell you the story via pictures.

We miss you, Yellow House!!
This is the cool house we got to stay in right on the beach. We were in Isle of Palms outside of Charleston, and you thought it was pretty sweet that we had to take a few massive bridges to get way out to the coast where we were staying. It was such a treat to be staying on the water, and to be able to kick it to the pool or down to the ocean in a matter of seconds.

This was our gorgeous view. It got cloudy and rainy on the last day, but it was still so nice. We stayed in one of the bedrooms that faced the water, so we got to look out on this every morning. You loved opening the shutters first thing (and I do mean FIRST thing) in the morning to yell "beach!" as if excited it was still there each day. Truthfully, our trip conveniently barely dodged a hurricane, so I guess you were right to be extra thankful!

Your first dip in the water was a success. You thought the tide was awesome, but you were a little wigged out by that weird feeling of the sand pulling away as the water retreated. (I think it feels kind of strange, too.)
You loved the waves crashing and you even got to go check out a sail boat anchored down the beach from us.

When it got too hot or we needed a break, it was so nice to have the huge screened in porch and TON of boy toys out there for you and the kids to play with. I didn't even mind being in there out of my precious sun time because the sound of the waves was so close, it felt like I was out there anyway.

There is something about the beach...and something about my sweet boy. Loved it!!

Did I mention that we vacationed with three of my besties?? And their kids?? Yes, there were 10 adults and 8 kids. We met a nice new couple who were friends with our great host and hostess, and they had a cute little guy close to your age who you hung with a lot. You called him "Dack." Clearly, he enjoyed a brownie before this picture.

Sweet Cailey. I think she made your heart skip a few beats.

CJ-the oldest. He was SO good with you little kids!

Luke. The streaker. This was one of the few times the little guy actually had clothes on. He was hilarious!

Reesie. She is a pistol. Walking at 10 months and into EVERYTHING. Also hilarious.

Sweet John. Love this kid.

...and this guy is pretty awesome too.

We didn't take many pictures of the grown ups but I did get to have some great quality time with my girls. We sat on the porch, beach, and hot tub, and talked. We had some cocktails, walked in the sand, and generally solved the world's problems like we always do. Your dad and I also had some good time to reconnect and vacay together. It was nice to get away with my favorite travel partner.

We had such a fun time. Alison and Wyatt were so nice to have us come up and stay with them for the weekend. Hope we can all get together soon!

No phone, no phone!

2011-09-10T19:54:00.000-07:00

Dear Keegan-
A blogging friend of mine posted a few months ago about something that really stuck in my head. She addressed the idea that her writing about their family's life might make it seem like they live in a land full of roses and butterflies. She explained that, like everyone else, they have their share of ups and downs, and that she is not trying to pretend that things are easy all the time. She just feels that her blog is a place to share the good parts of their life and that the other dirty details just don't need to be included.
Well, Amen to that. I have pretty much done the same as I have been writing these past two years. (Yowza!) But, I feel like maybe I am doing you a disservice by not mentioning some of the times I would have liked to have taken back. Or...the ones where I sort of wanted to wring your neck!!
Lately, I have been feeling at times like I am a solid C+ at everything I do. I have been burning the candle at both ends, so to speak, logging late nights to get work done, and up with the birds with you calling "Mommy!" to start the day. I recently got a promotion at work which I am super excited about, but the sudden process of resume writing, interview preparing, and now schedule-changing has taken a toll. I feel like I haven't been great at being fully present all the time that I do spend with you. And, typing this out makes me totally feel the working mother's guilt HARD CORE. It came to a head a few days ago when you looked at me, motioned to my hand and said "no phone!" Ugh. Like a punch to the stomach, I felt you noticing what I knew I needed to do. So since that day I set some boundaries for myself and for this blessing/curse "smart" phone of mine. With that came a promise for me to make your room a no-phone zone for me, and for me to really be aware of how much I have that stupid thing with me, alerting me to every email, Fox news alert, and Facebook update. I am tempted to throw it off the deck at times, just annoyed that I feel like I need to be so connected, but I think just limiting my active phone time as much as possible to when you are asleep or napping should help me with that balance.
There. I got it out.
Hopefully I can get some extra credit for at least recognizing and trying. Am I at a B- yet??
As for the wring-your-neck times, I am sure some of that also is impacted by the "when I'm at work all day, the last thing I want to do is have to discipline or say no to you" deal. The biggie really has been with you testing me in the road. Seriously. You look at me, hear me say "no street" and then take off like the Flash. I absolutely hate it because it channels so many emotions, I can barely get one foot in front of the other to hightail it after you. I am so mad, so nervous, so thankful every time the coast is clear, and then so winded that I just want to collapse and cry. You have done it to me twice now and at least once to dad. Don't think I don't get it, though. You may be my first child, but this ain't my first rodeo when it comes to child psychology. Go ahead. Test me on my boundaries. But for the love of God, can we keep these shenanigans inside instead!!?
I will add another rainbow to this note though, in true mom fashion, and add that today we had a great day of "mowing" the grass at least 74 times, tossing the tennis ball with Colb, and you darting down the driveway and then screeching in your tracks, smoke billowing from your Crocs as you stopped completely on my command. Mom 1. Keegan 0. Thank God.
As far as the rest of it goes, I have to say you really are a blast. If you are ever being a stinker, I can usually attribute it to something physical, like the boulder size molars emerging from your upper gums, or lack of sleep or hunger. You throw stuff sometimes, but I am going to single-handedly blame that on your dad, who by the way, thought it would be cool to start chipping golf balls in the basement. (Can't wait for you to imitate that one.) You have tantrums sometimes, and a propensity for the jumbled up "uppy please" phrase to pick you up - mostly with the lucky yours truly.
I know life's not perfect, and neither are you or me. But there's one thing I do know, my little buddy..that YOU are the perfect child FOR me.
I love you. I love every joyful, frustrating, stressful, and sweet moment I have with you and I really wouldn't take one of them back.
Roses and butterflies? Maybe. I am just so fortunate to have you. I can't help it.
Thanks for reading, my sweet sweet.
Mom

"...and now it's time for having fun at school!"

2011-08-24T19:16:00.001-07:00

Dear Keegan-

We finally got to sing "I love my mom! My mom is cool! (snap snap) And now it's time for having fun at school! (giggle)" This is from your favorite show of all time, Sid the Science Kid. You love it. We watch it on the regular. We have 30 of them saved on DVR. No lie. Today we got to sing it for real because it really was your first day of school!!!

What a rock star you were.

Let me back up.

Earlier this spring, CC inquired about the idea of school for you. School?! You are still in diapers! It was not something I had in mind for you, just yet, but apparently I should have been surfing the web from the hospital October 15th, 2009, since that is about the time I should have registered you. Knowing me, you will not be surprised to learn that soon after this conversation,I made researching schools for you my life mission. I looked at tons, took notes, made pro and con lists, sent emails to directors in the middle of the night, and made your dad crazy with the amount of time I was putting toward this decision. We ended up choosing the school where you were baby Jesus in the Nativity play the Christmas after you were born. So, technically, I think you should have "aka Jesus" on the sticker name tag you wear on your back or we should get some sort of VIP treatment in carpool or something. We don't. But, that's not to say that I'm not thrilled so far. And it is just the beginning of the year.

Fast forward to orientation last week. Dad and I got to go on a Wednesday night while you played over at Andrew's house. We ran into several neighbors and I saw some church friends and former patients. We got to see your classroom and learn about parties we would need to volunteer for and which weeks we would need to bring snack. It was super cute and made me really excited for the next day when you got to meet your teacher and some of your classmates.

Thursday, when you walked in, I think you rubbed your eyes and pinched yourself a few times. A massive firetruck was conveniently on display and the same slide/climbing apparatus we have on the deck was parked right in the center of the room. You made a beeline for the vehicles and the rest is history. Sold. I was elated.

Then came today. We talked up the school and the awesome playground and cars. Dad left you a sweet handmade card AND the red plate this morning before he went in to work. We were the lucky winners for snack this week, so we got that all packed up and headed off. Despite the fact that you were fighting bed til about 10 last night, you were chipper and excited in the car. We got to the door and as I was waiting for your infamous "up me please!" (which is your jumbled desperate attempt at "pick me up"), you marched on in like it was your job. I could barely catch up to get a picture. I think you were one of the later ones to arrive, but I passed you over to Ms Beth and it was done. No tears. Not you. Not me. And then I realized I left the snack in the car. Whoops. I did a mad dash back, secretly brought it to the room and snapped a quick pic like the Mammarazzi I am. It was sort of against the school rule of "don't come back and peek at your kids because it makes all the other kids cry all over again" but I think I deserved a pass. Just today. I mean it's the first week and I got snack duty and all...

I was beaming on my way back to the car, knowing that you were so content playing with your friends and just soaking up the experience like the little sponge you are.

This first week is a short week, so I had a little bit of time to play with and I actually went and got a pedicure. I felt like a woman of leisure (for about 27 minutes) and it was awesome. I had a work meeting later this afternoon so those few moments to breathe were just what the doctor ordered on this day off for me. I got stuff together for you to hang with Mimi and then went to pick you up.

When I got back to school a few of the moms from your class had discovered a little peek-hole in the curtains so we were taking turns covertly looking in. There were bubbles and you were climbing up the slide. A note outside the door said that you kids all sat together for snack and listened to two stories. Your teacher wrote "these kids are so smart I think they may be reading by the end of the year!'

Duh. Try by Christmas, Ms Beth.

Just kidding. It was awesome. She said you "played so well with everyone." Score!

I grabbed you up and squeezed you and told you how proud I was the whole way out to the car.

Still no tears. Either one of us.

It was a great first day.

I am so proud of you-

Mom

Your cute card and red plate from Dad

"I got this!"

The "gentleman's club" in the corner

"I don't even know where to begin!"

Me: "Do you love school?"

You: "YAY!!!!!"

Down with disease

2011-08-17T20:53:00.000-07:00

Dear Keegan-
Illness. Sick! Yuck! It is all around us right now. Your CC is in the hospital after feeling yucky over the weekend and then finding out her appendix had ruptured! She ended up having emergency surgery and will be in the hospital for several more days. We went to see her and visit as Grandpa is still on a trip, and you were so confused why she was "in bed" and not bouncing up to hug you. To tell you the truth, it is not my favorite thing either. I like it better when she takes care of me, not the other way around. (Though I was happy I could be there to help!)
Well, lucky for you, you also came down with something, albeit WAY milder, thank goodness. You and I both ended up with a stomach bug that left us both pretty MIZ for a few days. We logged some hours in the basement watching Sid and napping our fevers off. Boo.
We sure hope CC feels better soon!
Love
Mom

Wedding! Chicago!

2011-07-30T19:36:00.000-07:00

Dear Keegan-

I have so much to write about from the past week. I am going to do my best to describe everything since I didn't have my camera the whole time, and a certain someone was a little more needy than usual so I had less opportunity to click away, but I can tell you that we had a blast.

We started the trip with your first airplane ride. Your dad and I were pretty nervous, but you had a ball! We breezed through the airport and you were mesmerized by the moving walkways, shuttles, and buses we got to ride. You watched the planes take off and you just soaked it all in.

We boarded the plane with a ton of goodies for you-new books, snacks, and your Dad, CC and I all strategically seated in a row with a window. You were great. We had to wait an extra 45 minutes to take off, but you were truly a champ, making friends with a similar-aged boy behind you, and making a game out of sticking Colorforms to the window with CC. I couldn't have been more proud...and relieved. We then took a car to Uncle Mark and soon-to-be-officially Aunt Lisa's which is also where Grandpa has been staying while he does business up there this summer. You were so excited to see him, and GG and everyone else. We unpacked and let you stretch your legs a bit, and you quickly made friends with their dogs and cat!
The next day, Dad and I got to go into the city with Uncle Adam and Aunt Jessica. CC offered to babysit you and Mattie so that she and GG could spend some time with you two and we could get away as grown ups for a bit. I'm sorry you didn't get to go with us, because there are parts of it you would have loved, but I know you would not have been into the 120 degree temperature that day and the fact that we walked the majority of the magnificent mile about 10 times.

We started our day at Wrigley Field for the boys, and ate the best sandwich I have ever eaten at Lucky's in Wrigleyville. It was on a TV show so Adam and Jess knew about it, and seriously I have been thinking about it ever since. They put french fries ON your sandwich. Really. Doesn't get much better than that!

We then headed back over to the Grant Park area and the Art Institute, then to Michigan Avenue, and this big shiny bean thing. We took a water taxi to Navy Pier and then to the Shedd Aquarium. We saw some cool fire boats and lighthouses that I wished you were there to see, so I took a few pictures!

I know Dad would love to take you to a Cubs game!

Yum!!

Fire boats!!

That night, we got back to hear that you had been a champ all day, helping CC even when she needed some toys for Mattie. I was so proud of you. Grandpa went out and bought you some toys to play with in their backyard, and one of them was an inflatable pool. You were so excited to get in that we just let you do diaper-only. Though I was sorta embarrassed that you didn't have your suit on, your were just too cute splashing and playing with your cars and the hose. What simple fun!

Car wash!!

Friday was the day of the rehearsal dinner, which was in a tent in their backyard. It was fun to have all your Great Aunts and Uncles there and my cousins and soon-to-be-cousins too. We ate some super yummy food, and the grown ups had some grown up drinks and laughs after you went to bed.

Saturday was the day of the wedding and much hustle and bustle. Grandpa and CC took you to the neighborhood park for a while, which you loved, and got to blow off some steam.

The wedding was outside and you wore this adorable seersucker suit. Unfortunately, it was 1806 degrees out so your coat stayed on for a split second but it was seriously the cutest thing I have ever seen. Hopefully CC or Jessie have pictures of it that I can post later! The ceremony was lovely and then we went in to the club for the reception. We ate and danced, and danced and danced. You hung with it until almost 11:00! I know THAT is definitely in the genes from me! You loved looking at the lights and jumping up and down to the DJ. I think you showed off some sweet new moves too. They even played "Boom Boom Pow" for you per my request! YEAH!!!

Here are the few pictures that I have that sort of tell the story. More to come later since I am going to check with CC to see if she has some more of our little family and the bride and groom. How did I miss those?!?

We had fun, though.

Love you, little trooper!
Mom

The guys before the wedding

The groom!

"Mark." You loved to say his name.

But I kept getting confused with you asking for Mark or milk!

In the middle of the dance circle

Still going strong

Look at this sweaty dance team

We had so much fun!

Summer loving

2011-07-30T19:06:00.001-07:00

Dear Keegan-

Some of my favorite memories from growing up were spent over the summer. I loved being at the pool, going to camps, and getting to spend the day just playing outside. We have had a great time this summer doing many of those things and I am so thrilled you are enjoying all of them.

A special thing you got to do a few weeks ago was go to Music Camp at a nearby church. It was really cute, and similar to the classes we did there when you were a little babe. What was extra special was that CC got to take you the first day while I was at work. Though you were somewhat timid, I know you loved the music and seeing the other kids. You marched and played instruments and (sort of) sang. :) I got to go with you the second day, too!

Camp!!!

Another fun thing we got to do was head down to the Spray Park to play in the fountains and on the playground. What a fun place!! Still not sure about all of it, which I think may also be due to the fact that I scarred you during your first shower experience a few months back at CC and Grandpa's. I couldn't figure out why you were complaining about hot water when I was standing in there with you and it was tepid at best. As I was enjoying the spa-type set up, and trying to calm you that we were just fine, I realized they have a totally separate shower head that was on and spraying directly down on you. And, it was like blistering. OOPS! So, maybe that is why you wanted me to hold you tight while the water was flying all around at the park. It was cool. Literally and figuratively. We will definitely try it again. You have been talking about it all afternoon now, and since you passed out in the car on the way home, I think your need for a nap and some food probably spoiled the fun.

FIRE TRUCKS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2011-07-15T18:46:00.000-07:00

Dear Keegan-

I do have to admit that I have had a little bit to do with steering your interests. As a mom now, I sort of realize that all parents do. I mean, you are not carrying an Orla Kiely and listening to Widespread or anything, but once you started showing an interest in fire trucks, I definitely went with it. It's in the genes, right? I have a few toys and characters I have tried to steer you away from (read: Thomas), but I will say the car and trucks came pretty naturally for you. I love it. You now count them every time we pass the station into our neighborhood, proudly shouting from the back seat "two fire trucks!" and you can detect a siren before any of the rest of us can. The same goes for airplanes flying overhead and motorcycles within a 15 mile radius.

Anyway, I think boys loving cars and trucks is cute, and a boy loving fire trucks when his daddy is a fire fighter is just precious. We have been trying to get over to see Dad at least once while he is on shift for 24 hours and this time I happened to have my little camera with me. The joy on your face and the pride on his made for some pretty special memories...

for all of us!
Love you-

YEAH!!!!

"My dad rules!"

"Nah, I'm good."

For the love of the game...

2011-07-07T13:07:00.000-07:00

A quick family pic--sinceyou were dying to get down

I think you liked the grounds crew maybe better than watching the game

"Mow graaa?!"

Time to go???!!!

Dear Keegan-

We never turn down chances to go see the Braves play...especially for free! Dad got some tickets from work for us to go to a weekend night game and we were excited to have the McKinleys go with us. We met up with them at the park and scurried down to our seats for a few minutes. Knowing that you probably wouldn't sit for very long, we hung in the aisle trying to figure out our game plan. Not more than 5 minutes later, did we feel our first drop, and then the wind started to pick up. We left Dad with the stroller at our seats, since he wanted to thank the other firefighters who had given the seats to us. Mr. Scott, Lindley, Andrew, you and I started the trek up to the upper deck to take cover in case the bottom dropped out. Well, we weren't the only folks with that idea, let me tell you. Next thing I know, it was like a mass exodus of men, women, and children. We made it up to the tippy top and perched on a little cement half-wall with chain link fence behind us...like 4 stories up I think. Sheets of rain were coming at us sideways. And then you decided to scale the fence. And definitely not sit in my lap. And then people started joking about tornadoes. And it wasn't super funny at the time. Dad was trying to call on his phone to check on us and I was busy praying to God that we would see him again. I finally got a hold of him and let him know we were safe. Apparently he decided to head up to make sure. And that was at the same time we decided we had had enough hunkered down in the drizzle and made our descent. We got back to our seats...but no Dad. Guess where he was? Yep. Tippy top. Probably sizing up that fence just like you had.

To make a long story longer, I will add that we made it safely together back at the seats for about 10 minutes when the TV camera guy warned us that though the weather looked like it was getting better, it was actually about to get worse. Fair enough. We made a beeline for the exit. It was not a moment too soon, since half way to Alabama, where we apparently parked, we got completely soaked. Like jumping in the tub with all of our clothes on soaked.

I wish I knew what you were thinking as Dad pushed you in your stroller so fast that I thought the wheels were going to fly off, and I would run, stop and pull up my jeans, run, bend over from laughing too hard, and then run some more. That will be a funny mental image if you were able to store that one in your brain!!
Needless to say, it was an adventure. And I am sure there will be many more of those to come, my friend.

Love and hugs-
Mom

Happy Birthday, America!

2011-07-05T12:51:00.000-07:00

Dear Keegan-

Happy 4th of July!

We started off the festivities by heading over to CC's to spend the night so she could watch you and Mattie the next morning when we did our annual Peachtree Road Race. You played with the trains and showed off a bit and got to ride your new big wheel/motorcycle.

Grandpa was still out of town on his business trip so we missed him and we know CC kept very busy having BOTH grandchildren to watch. I know you had fun heading up to her neighborhood's parade of kids on bikes and wagons and we decided that if Dad and I are still running next year, that we will be sure you are set to do the parade too.

We met you guys for breakfast and then headed home for showers and naps. We had planned to wake up and head down for some big fireworks, but we discovered that it was pretty stormy and not too many fireworks shows would be taking place. Colby thought he dodged a bullet with the fireworks, but instead they were replaced by booming thunder most of the night. Sorry, bud!

We did put you in a cute red, white, and blue holiday Jon Jon--and you logged some miles in it running around the house.

We are proud to be Americans around here!!

Love you, little patriot!
Mom

Extreme Makeover: My Sweet Baby Edition

2011-06-22T19:55:00.000-07:00

those curls...
First Haircut

Not a huge fan...

Sweet relief...

*Note the lingering tear under left eye!

Dear Keegan-

OH MY GOSH I AM SORRY I LET YOUR HAIR GET THAT LONG BUT I LOVED IT AND I MISS IT AND I AM SAD WE DID IT AND WAAAAAAAAHHHH!

Okay. That felt a little bit better. You are adorbale no matter what but I do miss those curls. They were wild, and I am sure it was hot for you, so I know it was the RIGHT decision. But right doesn't always feel good. Right?!?

We took you to a really cute place nearby called Pigtails and Crewcuts. They definitely have the market cornered on kids haircuts. They had toys and movies, snacks, and a train table. You got to sit in a firetruck (of course you picked that), and Dad and I stood nearby to distract and entertain you...or at least attempt it. Tears were shed. You more than me. But you were a happy camper to play afterward and pretend to drive the car over to Chick Fil A where the three of us had lunch before I headed back to work. You look like such a big boy, now, and I am relieved it is over and done with. I think I see more long hair in your future though. It's just you.

Love you, little mullet man!
Mom

Sunday Fun Day

2011-06-22T19:00:00.000-07:00

Dear Keegan-
We had a great Father's Day weekend, which wrapped up with a fun play date at Andrew's house! You and your partner in crime had lots of fun running in sprinklers, jumping in the little pool, and pushing cars around their yard. Oh yeah, and probably scaring the heck out of their neighbor's cat as you two would run up and press your faces against the back door to peek inside. (Sorry about the fingerprints, Ms. Natalie!) You boys are just two peas in a pod!
Earlier that day I decided to volunteer in the church daycare since they were low on people for Father's Day, and your dad would be working. I also thought it would be good to keep it a consistent part of your schedule...and, yes, secretly I kind of wanted the inside scoop as to how they run that church so well.
It was really fun, but very exhausting. There were 22 kids in your room with 5 adults. I held some criers, led storytime, helped make Father's Day crowns, met a nice pediatrican couple, and wiped some runny noses. It was cool to see you around such a big group of your peers, and I was really proud of you. I think it must have been weird for you to feel like you were sharing me with 21 other little tikes. Though I always used to worry about sharing my love with a second child someday, I can tell that by the time that day comes, I think you will be ready. And, I can promise you there won't be 21 more children to worry about!!
We stopped at Dad's fire station after church to give him a special card and a big "It's officially Father's Day" hug. You were in hog heaven to be around all of those trucks. You still love to talk about "daddy-fire truck" when I mention that he is at work. We miss him when he is gone, but we certainly get a lot of miles out of discussing his line of work, looking it books about it, and driving the 39, 000 rescue vehicles we have scattered around this place!
Saturday was our attempt at celebrating your Dad and being together as a family. He had to play tennis in the morning and we had spent the night at CC and Grandpa's so we met up around lunchtime. We played for awhile and then put you down for a nap to be ready in time for a 4:00 Braves game that we were going to later! Nap 0. Keegan 1. Awesome.
We hauled it down to Turner Field, and met up with the McKinley's. The clouds appeared to be getting a little darker and you started getting a little antsier, so we decided to mosey up to the nosebleeds despite our pretty decent seats. We left Dad to chat with the guys who had given us the tickets, and told him to meet us up top when we got to a good spot. Problem number one. We started up stairs, escalators, and got out our ice picks and cramp-ons to make way to what felt like the top of the world. Did I mention that you were 29.5 pounds according to our bathroom scale this morning? I was carrying you due to the crowds and your strong desire to make your way to home plate personally, and looking back I think this was one of those times those baby backpack leashes I loathe might not have been such a bad idea! We got up to the section where I think they pay YOU instead of having you buy tickets and perched on a semi-sketchy cement wall with chainlink to sort of protect us from plummeting off the back of the stadium. Remember those clouds? It was full-on Armageddon heading towards us. Clouds, wind, and drunk baseball fans started towards us with reckless abandon all seeking some sort of cover. We ended up thankful for three friendly college kids building a human wall to shield Ms Lindley, Scott and I who were huddled together protecting you boys from the rain. Someone mentioned how wild it would be if it was a tornado. Not funny, I thought, in between wondering how dry your dad probably was chilling in some air conditioned lower level food area near our original seats. Well, I should have known better that he would be making his way up to rescue us. Problem two. I didn't have the multi-tasking ability to keep an eye on my phone during the Great Typhoon of 2011. We carefully headed down the bleachers when the rain let up to a slower drizzle and while I was watching every step and occasionally checking the skyline, Dad must have passed us in his effort to save us. What followed was a blur of me chasing you through puddles, trying to sneak back to our seats, getting the inside info from a TV camera crew man that worse weather was headed our way. Dear TV guy: the heads up would have been awesome about 10 mintues earlier. We made the executive decision to take off during the 6th inning rain delay, and just as we exited the gates, the bottom fell out. You thought this was hilarious. I did too, for a few minutes, until I remembered we had parked in Tennsessee. Without fear or delay, your dad hauled it with you in the stroller, full speed ahead to our car. I kicked off my flip flops, rolled up my jeans, and followed...ducking with every lightning strike and then sprinting to make up for lost time. YIKES! Close call!
Happy Father's Day, Dad! Sorry about the soggy clothes!
What an adventure-

Timber!!!!

2011-06-22T18:50:00.000-07:00

Dear Keegan-
What the heck is this? A tree on our deck?
It was a crazy night last week with some VERY strong storms and, therefore, a very nervous Colby. Apparently, a VERY tall pine tree in our neighbor's backyard just couldn't hang through it and decided to come crashing down in the middle of the night. I woke up to branches outside the usually clear kitchen window. You couldn't believe your eyes when we walked outside later to check it out. But the best was yet to come for you with the neighbor and his chainsaw "SAW!!!!" chopping it up later that evening. You still mention it when we go out there, like you aren't really sure if it was a dream or it really happened.
We just keep crossing our fingers that its buddies don't have any similar plans, since this one just grazed the back of the house and deck railing. A little too close for comfort for me with these frequent summer storms we have been having!
Lots of love, my little lumberjack
Mom

Scrub a dub dub...

2011-06-14T19:43:00.000-07:00

Andrew and Keegan in the tub!!

Dear Keegan-

You and your silly pal Andrew had some tubby time TOGETHER a few weeks back. It all started when we got to spend a fun day on their boat at the lake, swimming in the water and playing in the rocks and sand. You loved going fast on the boat, and kind of wasn't a huge fan of the beach/water part. It's okay because we have plenty of summer and pool time coming up to get you swimming like a fish with us. You even got to drive the boat! What!?! Then, you peas in a pod sat through dinner with us at the lake front restaurant, and we headed home.

Once we got about 10 minutes away from the dock, Ms. Lindley realized they were locked out. Whoops. Dad and Mr. Scott had zoomed off to dock the boat and it was going to be impossible to get them in time. So, you know what we did? We took those lemons and made lemonade. In the tub. Tub-on-ade. Kinda gross.

VERY funny.

Love you, Silly Goose!
Mom

Birthday Party Bonanza

2011-06-14T19:21:00.000-07:00

Dear Keegan-

Birthday, birthday, birthday. Thank goodness for all of your neighborhood pals keeping your social calendar slammed. You have such great friends with fun families for us to celebrate with and go to cool places like Gymboree and other cool tumbling gyms.

Bubble machine! And Mom had to majorly restrain herself from trying a few gymnastic stunts on the bouncy floor!!

"This place is awesome!!"

"You mean I get to climb on ALL of this stuff? And it's okay?"

"Next party-I have found THE perfect tailgating set up!

Goonight, Cars!

2011-05-26T19:18:00.000-07:00

I started this little ritual on a whim one night a few weeks ago when trying to convince you that it really was time to hit the hay. Since then, it has been an every night routine and is so sweet to see you giggle and sit down to watch me set it up and then run to "wake them up" in the morning. So these days, every night we do "brusha brusha brusha" (teeth), turn on your music, and then I put you in the crib, cover the row of cars/trucks/boats/trains up, give them a blanket, rub their backs, and give them a stuffed animal-just like you.
Sweet dreams!!

Surf's Up!

2011-05-26T19:08:00.000-07:00

Dear Keegan-
Bring on the hot weather! We love it!
Since last week was pretty chilly, I was thinking the big pool might not be toddler (or Mommy)-friendly yet, and I decided we would improvise on the deck.
I am proud to say that the daredevil in you took right to my idea of 610 Whitewater...
Yeah!!
You loved sliding into the pool and then climbing out, running a lap around the table and doing it all over again. It was like your own mini-triathlon. And you won!
We had Colby outside with us, too, and you thought it was hilarious (like, collapsing in giggles-hilarious) that he would periodically lap up the baby pool water. I snapped some pics from my phone but I was having trouble playing Mom/lifeguard/photographer with my good camera.
I got your new safety gear for the big pool today and I think we might be ready to head down this holiday weekend! Here's to lots more water fun this summer!!
I can't wait!
Love,
Mom

Happy Birthday, Bestie!

2011-05-26T18:08:00.000-07:00

Dear Keegan-
You have gotten some GREAT practice on the birthday song, recently, which is good, because we have 4 more parties coming up in the next two weeks! I will say this was an extra special one because it was for your good buddy Andrew who turned 2!
We had a great time at their house and felt honored to be invited to their small family get together. There were tons of big boys to play with and Andrew's toys were a hit to you too!
Happy birthday to your awesome playmate, "Daddoo!"

Happy Birthday to You, Andrew!!

Woohoo! Another vehicle to test out! One hand on the wheel, another on a hot rod. Pretty typical these days!

like two peas in a pod!

Andrew was so sweet to share his new birthday present with you.
I can't wait to see the two of you riding outside on your almost matching bikes!!

Happy Mother's Day!

2011-05-23T12:57:00.000-07:00

Dear Keegan-

You make me the proudest mother. Every day. Whether you are wild and playful, or relaxing and snuggly, you somehow always make me beam with pride and happiness that I get to be your mother.

We had a great Mother's Day, visiting both of your grandmothers and getting to just spend some family time together.

Your GG was in town from Michigan, too, so you got to celebrate with 3 generations of moms. That is pretty special! You got to hang out with her a little bit while I had a girl's night out, which was also a sweet treat for me!!

Since I last wrote we have made huge progress on the major basement project and it is now your favorite place to play in the house. You love to say "maymeh" for basement and run down there. Since it just got carpeted and Dad is finishing up the trim, we haven't brought everything down, but there are PLENTY of toys and a lot of running space for you. I think you think it is heaven. I must admit, it is pretty fun.

We had a fun play date with your H-Aunt Alli and John and baby Reese. We watched you guys run around and take turns on the bike and other toys...well, sort of take turns.

I have been super proud of you going to the church nursery like a champ. You talk about playing with the "kids" and seem to enjoy it once you get over the initial separation anxiety-which sort of just kicked in.

Another cool thing you just started doing is using two word phrases. I think I can credit the great basement build of 2011 for your first 2 word combo: "daddy saw." You love to imitate noises of a whole new world of power tools that you were recently introduced to, and the saw was definitely one of your faves. You were pretty adorable using your own plastic kid versions of the hammer, screwdriver, and saw. Thank you, Bob the Builder. The air compressor for the nail gun definitely threw you for a loop because you kept saying "gah!!!" when it would periodically come on, thinking it was a lawnmower (hence "grass!" and then what the heck was it doing inside!?" It was too much for you! And too funny!

You have expanded to some other cute little phrases, too, like "big truck, "fast car," "mommy shoe," etc...You have started to indicate where you want to go and are very adamant about it: upstairs...outside...down....walk! It is really cool that I can ask you to get something for me now, too, and even if it is in another room or out of sight.

I love watching your little brain work. You have your moments that certainly test me, no lie, but you are growing and maturing and just soaking up everything around you and I freaking love it.
Being your mom is the best thing that ever happened to me. Bible.

I love you sweet boy!
Mom

Catch up

2011-05-05T18:04:00.000-07:00

Dear Keegan-

I am going to throw a whole bunch of stuff into this post since we have had a whirlwind April and it is already May, and I am WAY behind.

Last weekend after Touch-a-Truck we went to celebrate Uncle Adam's Master's Degree. He finished graduate school and we are so proud of him! That is such an awesome accomplishment that I hope you choose to follow when you are big, too! Yay, Adam!

He was nice enough to not feel jealous of you stealing the show at his chosen Taco Mac celebratory lunch spot. Perhaps it was you playing ambassador to the diners in the sun-room area or climbing up the brick and window wall about 6 feet up with CC spotting you. I am sure it had nothing to do with you yelling "car" and throwing french fries. Nah.

We also had a check up with Dr. T for your 18 month well visit. I am happy to report, that although your dad and I went in with guns blazing and a united front against the MMR, we bought another 6 months out of not having to give it to you. I truly believe in vaccinations, but this one was supposed to be given at 12 months and I wasn't ready. We put it off til 18 months, and I wasn't ready again. Yeah. I can't help it. You know what I do all day and all the parents and all the kids and you being a boy, and all the stuff they load into those shots...Ugh. We are going to wait til 2 and then I told Dr. T she can kick us off her caseload if we opt out again. We won't, but that's what's up...I mean, in case you and any of your friends start having the vaccine talk. :)

Your stats were great: 34 inches long and 27.6 pounds. You are in the 90th percentile for your height and 75th for your weight and head circumference. I guess the waffles and yogurt for breakfast, peanut butter-jelly time for lunch, and chicken dinners seem to be doing their trick...even if it sometimes seems more of it ends up across the room or on the floor (or in Colby's mouth) these days!

We have been lucky to have some great weather lately and some fun playdates with your buddy Andrew. Here are a few pictures of the last time we hung out with them. I have some other pictures I snapped quickly with my phone, but apparently I need a Master's degree in computer science to be able to send them from my iphone to my laptop. Stay tuned...

You were thrilled that the McKinleys have their car INSIDE. What fun you two had pushing eachother around!!

Oops! We caught you red-handed, Andrew!!

This was left over from Easter. You. In a bucket. Still doing it.

Kisses from the Becks!

Touch-a-Truck

2011-05-04T18:19:00.000-07:00

Dear Keegan-

You hit the jackpot this weekend. Alpharetta hosted an event called Touch-a-Truck where they brought all sorts of vehicles from the city for kids to climb in and on. Well, we couldn't miss it, since Daddy was working AND it is trucks. It was a beautiful Saturday morning, and apparently every other man, woman, and child in the city had the same idea. Thankfully we got the hookup from Dad on a good parking spot, and we braved the crowds so you could get an up-close look at all kinds of multi-wheeled apparatuses. What fun!

My two guys

Look at how big those wheels are next to you! You were amazed!

We saw old cars...

...and trains...

...fire trucks...

...an ambulance...

...and my personal favorite!

You got to drive Daddy's work vehicle...

(and I got to get a great shot of those curls!!)

"Hey folks! Read the sign: Stay back 500 feet!"

Beep! Beep!
Love you, honey!!

Easter 2011

2011-04-30T19:57:00.000-07:00

Dear Keegan-

Happy Easter, little bunny!

We had a great Easter weekend with so much fun with family and friends! You got to meet Karla and Jason-Daddy's cousin and her husband and you were able to run around and play with your Beck cousins too. We got to see the Corrigan family on Saturday night before Easter when we celebrated CC's birthday by having a cookout at our house. You had so much fun playing with baby Mattie and you sure showed her a thing or two!

Here are a few pictures of the weekend:

Love you,

Mom

"What?! What is that?!!!"

You carefully inspected for a few seconds and then saw the "TRUCK!!!!!!" book

The bunny must have had a momentary lapse in his/her "No Thomas" rule

We put this toy up on the couch to entertain Mattie while we ate, but you thought it looked too fun to not join in. It was adorable to see you climb up next to her and carefully play and look at her periodically. Oh, my melting heart!!

Happy early Easter from CC and Grandpa!!!

Shenanigans...

2011-04-12T18:56:00.000-07:00

Dear Curious George-I mean, Keegan, You are such a goofball. This past week has been extra fun with my birthday (woohooo!) and you just doing the silliest stuff. You have enjoyed showing off for your Great Grandma who was in town this past week, and for CC and the Choo Choos (and Grandpa--or Bubba, as it sounds like). We went to their house for my birthday dinner Sunday night and found you climbing in and out of Mattie's carseat...Thinking about the good old times??

...wait for it...wait for it.... Bucket head!!

"Just chilling at CC and Grandpa's waiting on myfood...gonna put my feet up for a bit"

Opening Day 2011

2011-04-12T18:42:00.001-07:00

Dear Keegan- This year I got to be a part of the Braves Opening Day tradition. We packed up the car and headed down to see the Braves play the Phillies on a very warm Friday April night. It was so fun to see you mesmerized by the crowd, and though we were nervous the clapping and cheering might scare you, you soaked it up and clapped and cheered with the best of them. Often, you made for more entertainment to the fans than the game! We went up near where they shoot off the fireworks and you got to run on a mock-field from 3rd base to home plate. I started off with you since you were at least a foot shorter than the rest of the kids in line to try it, but quickly realized that you were fully capable of doing it yourself. You tore away from my hand and trotted down to home plate where you checked to be sure everyone was clapping with you. What fun! Thanks for letting me be a part of it this year! Love, Mom

"Coooooool!"

All you wanted to do was get down and run!

I think you caught the fever...

PLAY!

2011-04-12T18:32:00.000-07:00

Dear Keegan- Last Tuesday we tried out a fun indoor activity place called Play. It was a blast for you and a workout for me! You had no fear when it came to jumping into a foam pit, bouncing on the trampoline, and sliding down the slides. I wish I had taken more pictures of you and your buddy, Andrew, but I think I was too busy chasing you and wiping the sweat off my forehead. What a blast! Thanks for coming with us, too, Miss Lindley and Andrew!!

The Hired Help

2011-04-06T18:08:00.000-07:00

Who knew you would be such a help around the house? in the laundry room...

in the dryer...

...and running the vaccuum!

Now, if I could just get you folding laundry.

Love you, Mr. Clean!

Mom

March Madness

2011-03-28T10:15:00.000-07:00

On the lookout for leprechauns

St. Patty's Day 2011

Dear Keegan-

I have no clue what is going on with college basketball this year, so don't be misled by the title. I just mean I feel like this month has whizzed by and here it is three weeks since I last posted. Sorry, little guy. Good news is that we have had so much going on there has been little time to sit and write. I think that counts as good, right? Work is continuing in the basement so you have gotten used to the periodic pounding and sawing coming from below. "Dadda?" you ask.

The cool thing is that now I can answer and I really feel like you understand. You have become so much more conversational and so intentional as far as your likes and dislikes. I ask "what do you want to drink, milk or water?" and you say "wawa." You walk to the fridge to try and get it and sometimes pull us to what you want instead of pointing. We have started working on please and thank you and both of them are so adorable! You will bring us shoes to get us to go outside and you are sprinting up and sliding down the stairs like a maniac these days. You have gotten so good at it, Dad and I just sort of watch you now and tell you to be careful instead of frantically scrambling up behind you.

You are still eating your standard foods, but are becoming a little bit braver by the day. Though the slimy stuff tends to freak you out, we had some grapes this weekend and you tackled a chicken quesadilla like it was your job! You pick up your food with no problem and we have started to work on having you use the spoon to feed yourself "sauce" or yogurt. We practice like a truck..."scoop!" and "dump!" The vehicles have also helped when needing you to finish your food. Nothing gets you eating like the "peanut butter delivery system" which is one of your wind up cars with sandwich chunks on top. Thank goodness for our imaginiations, right!?

You have had some great playdates with Andrew and the other boys in the neighborhood, and you have been a rockstar at Sunday School. Adam and Jess and Mattie stopped by to play and hang out and you are loving your new train table at CC and Grandpa's.

You love to slide at the playground and run around the field down by the lake, running near the ducks and quacking after them. They hate it. I love it.

We have really been having a blast together and I am so thankful for better weather getting us oustide more!! I am going to post some pictures to help sum up the past few weeks.

Happy Spring, little bud!

I love you,

Mom

Dinner at Mimi's for her birthday Reading with your Papa Playing with Andrew

This is about .3 seconds before you both stood on the chair, tipped it backwards, and started wailing about it. BOTH of you!!

Another fun trick you have learned...shaking your finger "NO!"

If I've told you once, I've told you a thousand times...

2011-03-09T17:43:00.000-08:00

Dear Keegan-
You sweet, sweet boy. You are so funny! Lately you have been extra chatty. And somewhat demanding with those words. If I had a dollar for every time I heard "tatta..tattta...tatta!" college would be paid for in full and you would be on your way to a full time Indy 500 announcing job with ESPN. "Car...car...car" and "touch it" ("tatta"). These are the words I hear all day. Does it drive me a little crazy? A little. But then, just seeing this face makes it all worthwhile. I love it.

You have not ceased in the climbing department. Now you are able to get into your high chair (note: key word HIGH chair) and you think sitting in the regular chairs are sort of more fun. Awesome.

Lately I have had my camera around a lot since you do such silly things and since I got to take a class last weekend about how to use it a little better. It is so complex that I have to take lots of practice shots, but you are fun to be my little guinea pig! This one was you playing hide and seek while I put our dinner dishes away. Nevermind the cookie in your mouth. I think this is a great pic!

I think this one below was from Sunday last week where we did something super fun - Sunday School! We took you for your first day at church with your good buddy Andrew. We have never left you with anyone but family, so it was a little nerve wracking, but seeing you mosey in there and playing with the other kids and bubbles when we got back assured us that you were just fine. Now we hope to make it our Sunday tradition since we had been bad about going to church, worrying about leaving you. Good job, little blue eyes!

oh, look! Another cookie in your hand!!

The night before church we had some of our friends and neighbors over to grill out. You played with Andrew, Anthony, and Alex, and Griffin hung out too! The grown ups ate some great food and got to hang out and then us moms took off for a Cloud 9 run for frozen yogurt. Yes, it is a crazy life I lead as a mom now...closing down the yogurt shop at 10pm on a Saturday. Oh, but so worth it!

Here Alex and Anthony were crawling one way through the house while you backed out the other direction. Who would have guessed you all would still love this thing so much!?

Andrew checking out a VERY sleepy Griffin who Miss Lindley got some snuggle time with. I always joke that she is the baby whisperer, since she can make a little one "coo" like no other. I think it is the sweet Mississippi talk!!

Alex kept asking for me to take his picture which I was glad to do. It is so funny how you kids now know to run around and look at the back of the camera to check yourself out in the display. Cheese!!

Another big thing going on right now is that the workers started framing in the basement. It is VERY loud, but we have done a great job taking you to Monkey Joe's (which possibly your dad loves more than you) and over to CC and Grandpa's to have some quiet time to nap. Colby is not a fan, but we will all LOVE the new space to play and hang out. And I think you might have a very special playroom in your future! Can't wait, Honeybuns.

Love you!
Mom

A day in the life...

2011-02-24T18:41:00.000-08:00

Dear Keegan-
I think it has been a long time since I have written about a typical day for you. I know with the blink of an eye you will be big and off at school and we will forget what it was like with you being a little explorer, so here is a little insight into what your life was like at this age...
First of all, you are a great sleeper. Thank goodness, since your dad and I are too! We put you down at around 8:30 and you generally sleep til at least 8:30 or 9:00. Read on and you will soon learn why! We get up and you toss your pacifier in your bed after Dad or I give a little head nod and nudge. You know the drill. These days your paci doesn't have much to it, since I have chopped it down to almost a nub in an effort to get you completely off of it. Sorry. You will thank me later. You still are attached to it, but we keep to a strict "car, crib, and crisis" rule (thank you, Aunt Alli) and you are losing interest I think as I secretly slice a little more off the end every few days. Hopefully by the next time I write, it will be a thing of the past completely. Fingers crossed!
Usually we change your diaper and head downstairs to play a little and eat breakfast. You love waffles and yogurt and picking at our cereal...but not with milk. You eat a good breakfast, glance over our head and label the family pictures on the wall ("Papa, CC, Dadda, etc...) and then ask "down?" or "done!" depending on the urgency you feel to get busy playing. On a day where your Dad and I are home in the morning, we spend a ton of time on the floor with you building block towers, doing a noisy puzzle, racing cars across the wood floor, and knocking the towers down. You give your best shot at climbing on some furniture and one of us briskly swoops you off. These days you are labeling things and people like crazy and your favorite phrase of "touch it" has given way to lots of new experiences of Dad lifting you up to reach the ceiling fan (while off, of course), turning off lights, helping open the blinds, and ringing the doorbell. Seriously, does it get more fun than that?!
Depending on your wake time we may try for an AM nap still. Usually you rub your ear(s) when you are getting tired and sometimes you make your way up into your comfy chair with a book, beckoning me to come join you. Since that is one of my favorite times with you, you can be sure I am usually climbing in with you in less than 2.2. We read no less than 3 books and have been known to empty the basket having so much fun pointing out pictures and making the animal and car noises we see. You definitely enjoy the routines of car beeps and bell rings for some books, and snake noises and finger/toe counting on others. I am always amazed at how much you remember and how you connect your experiences so much. It so miraculous to see your little brain thriving on learning and associating. I LOVE IT.
If we succeed in the nap department, you are typically down until your tummy rumbles for lunch--maybe an hour or so. Then you start talking and naming everyone you can think of who might possibly hear you: "Dadda, Colb Colb, Papa, CC..." even "car, cookie, vroom" sometimes make their way into your list. I let you chill for a little bit if you sound content and then make my grand entrance to come grab you up, get dressed for the day and then get our lunch on! A funny thing happened to your dad and me recently since your mattress has been on the floor. Apparently we didn't survey the scene around your crib and after hearing some a motor-like noise and some singing over the monitor, we realized your toy lawn mower had been just close enough for you to grab through the crib slats. Now we know better to clear the scene when it is bed time!
The past few afternoons I have had with you when I have been off have included LOTS of play time outside. In fact, you have added that word to your vocabulary recently. "A-side?!" We push your fire truck, swing, and now you like to do laps around the house. We go on walks down to the lake, the playground, and the big swings. You soak every minute of it up. You have no fear when it comes to the big slides, and even Colby comes up the playground stairs to look out for you!
After our play time outside, we may play upstairs and you will run from my room to yours and back tossing things in the bathtub or playing in your truck fort. You still love to empty baskets and tonight I found you unrolling the toilet paper in the guest bathroom. Funny thing is, the door was closed, so now you can officially turn the door handle and open/close them. You have become particularly gifted in the hoisting and tossing things over the banister department. Currently there is a significant red bruise on your forehead from trying to toss a dump truck overboard and it not quite making it. Nice rebound with your noggin, though!
Dinner time comes just in time for us to take a breather, and you do a decent job of putting away a few chicken nuggets, some applesauce, veggies, and maybe a cookie or two. Maybe more if you bust out "cookie + please" like I swear you tried tonight!
We play some more, read more books, and then it is time for "tubby" and bed. You still love your bedtime music, a small cup of milk, snuggling, and "brusha brusha" which is our toothbrushing ritual. Another new thing is you saying "Keegee" when I point to us in the mirror. LOVE!!!
I reach over and blow you a kiss since you are now too far for me to bend over and reach. Sometimes you grab my hand, sometimes you like my hair tickling you by shaking down in your face. Sometimes there are tears, and sometimes you stand up and protest, but ALL the time I tell you "goodnight and I love you" and choke back a big amount of pride and awe that I get to be YOUR mother for another day.
Thank you for making each one so unique and special.
I love you, Sunshine!
Mom

Checking out the lake scene...

"Catch me?"

"DUCKS!!!"

The best half time show ever...

2011-02-15T10:03:00.000-08:00

I am so glad CC captured this sweet moment on video of you with baby Mattie right before we were leaving the night of the Superbowl...totally unprompted...

XOXO

Happy Valentine's Day!

2011-02-15T09:38:00.000-08:00

Dear Keegan-
Happy Valentine's Day, buddy! What a great day we were able to have since I was off work and it was gorgeous outside. Here are a few pictures to help tell the story of what we have been up to lately...

Thankfully the weather has been really nice this week so far, because we have had to spend a lot of time inside...even riding bikes indoors in pajamas! How silly is that?!

You really are getting into your cars and trucks more. No matter the size, you will try to ride it and/or carry it throughout the house. Sometimes at night I have to do a little switch-a-roo to get a truck out of your hand and give you something soft to take to bed. You are all boy, for sure!

Unfortunately that "boy" in you has led to lots and lots of climbing. You have no problem getting up on chairs, tables, and even now trying to climb out of your crib. Thankfully we caught you red-handed on this one, and I found you trying to get out of your bed and then quickly lowered your mattress all the way to the floor so there is no way you can get out. You are just so tall and apparently part-spider monkey. Eyes on you at all times, these days!!

Here is the Valentine's Day card from CC and Grandpa. We woke up to several cards and the special red plate today. You loved it and held it for most of the morning, driving it on the floor, your highchair, etc...

Vroom vroom!

We went to a Valentine's Day party in the neighborhood and you played with lots of little boys your age. The plastic chair from the playroom was a huge hit for some reason and it looks like I caught you trying to take it right back from this little guy who tried to swipe it out of your hands. Goofball!

Later on we got to play outside and go for a nice long walk with Colby while we waited for Dad to get home. It was such a great day!

Off to play some more. Check out those curls!!!

Soooo cute!
Love you so much, monkey!

Mom

XOXO

2011-02-01T17:35:00.000-08:00

Dear Keegan-

Happy February!
Mwah!!
I thought I would take the opportunity of the first post of a new month to make a list of your recent accomplishments. See below (and above) for some picture documentation, too!

Words:

Dadda (yep, still saying that a mere 176 times per day)
CC
Colb Colb
Cracker
Cookie
Done or all done
Cool! (yeah, I guess I say that one 176 times per day, don't I? Touche.)
Dog
Down
Go Go Go!
Georgia (as in Bulldogs, since you can see the UGA logo from your changing table!)
Key (thank you first word flashcards, and Chatterbox DVD in the car)
Ball

You are definitely imitating a ton more than that, but these are the ones I hear on a daily basis. It is great, and I will continue to swallow my frustration on the no -"Mom"- yet if it means you keep this great vocabulary growing and growing!

Not to mention, the blowing kisses totally melts my heart!

Some other things you have been doing include mastering going down the stairs backwards (thank you, Mimi), climbing on furniture, and emptying the pantry. I guess these are life skills, but I swear you act more like a 3 year old than 15 months and some change.

We have been having a great time visiting baby Mattie but I haven't been great at balancing snuggling her, keeping an eye on you, and getting pictures of you interacting with her. And, you keep trying to steal her paci, so I think it is best to not document that on film, you little clepto!!

I had a great time being home with you on my typical Tuesday off and I can't wait for the weather to stay warm like this weekend so we can enjoy playing outside with your toys more.

I love you so much, my little climbing chatterbox!

Mom

"Why has my ball pit shrunk?"

Almost...

Closer...

"I did it! And all with an apple slice in hand and cheek!"

2011-01-23T18:43:00.000-08:00

Dear Keegan-
Today was a very special day in our family as your baby cousin, Mattie, was born this morning. Aunt Jessie went in to the hospital last night, just as I was on my way out with some friends! I spent most of the night laughing with them and having a great time while keeping my phone close at hand in case there was any news. I came home and stayed up late trying to decide when the best time would be to go down to the hospital. When Uncle Adam updated me after midnight that things hadn't changed much, I decided to try and sleep and have him call me in when we knew that she was closer to coming. Adam called at 6 am and I was so excited I threw on some warm clothes and made the trek down to Northside. CC and Grandpa had been there since earlier that night so I met up with them and got to go in and give hugs to Adam and Jess.
At 10:00 am, the most beautiful baby girl was born, and I am just so proud of your aunt and uncle. There were so many moments that I was so fortunate to be a part of and it just made me think back to not long ago when we were there for the most special day of MY life--your birth.
I will never forget seeing your Uncle Adam proudly walk out of the delivery wing, and then pick up to a jog up to CC and Grandpa with tears streaming down his, and theirs, and my face as we all sort of melted into a big family hug. I love that I was able to see him beaming while he held her and said "you pretty girl" while he rocked her in the chair next to a glowing Jessica in her bed, and I will never forget being a part of the big crowd of family that just poured out love into that delivery room soon after she was born.
Being a parent is such a blessing. We always talk about how you never know how much you can love something until you have a child. I am so thankful I get to be your mom, and so thankful that Adam and Jess get to share that same feeling.
Love you, sweet pea.
Mom

More from Snowmaggedon 2011

2011-01-13T19:00:00.001-08:00

"I know my paci is in there! Pu-puh?!"

Love reading books. Especially ones with firetrucks and cars!

Love our "tubby time!"

Snow Week 2011

2011-01-13T18:35:00.000-08:00

Dear Keegan-
It is almost day 5 of the biggest snow storm I have seen in Atlanta. Holy cow! It has been crazy. It started Sunday night with some snow that fell very hard and fast and covered us with about 5-6 inches. I was called out of work Monday and Dad was home so we hunkered down and played inside and ventured out too. We took you out in a snow suit that I had kept randomly as a hand-me-down and it definitely came in handy! We had you in your stroller for a while to deflect the cold wind and check things out as a family. Colby was thrilled to be outside and off-leash, but I think his paws were not such big fans. We found some neighbors sledding and your Dad and I tried it out. Since Dad had sledding on the brain, we borrowed the sleds the next day and found bigger hills to try out. Yeehaw! It was fun. He loved it, I loved it, you liked it, and Colby HATED it. He barked the whole time we would slide away from him and then come bounding down the hill to rescue us. I think he probably didn't love my squealing the whole way down! Woohoo!!
And, yes, I did say "the next day." Feel free to repeat that phrase 3 more times. School has been out for an entire week. I finally went back to work today, Thursday and will go in tomorrow for a bit. It is icy everywhere and this city is just not prepared for bad weather like this. So, instead everything shuts down.
We have had some great play dates though as we have been home more. We got to go to Miss Michelle's house and play with lots of your neighbor friends. It was a wine date for the moms and a play date for the kids. It was very fun. We also got to play lots with Andrew and you taught him your toss the ball over the gate trick at the top of HIS stairs. He taught you some wrestling moves too! You guys are playing so well together. So cute!
I have been able to spend some time playing with my nice new camera too. Some of these are practice shots, and some are with my little camera since I was worried about taking it in the bad weather.
It has been a great few days home with you my little snowman!
Love,
Mom

"Really, Dad? A baby pool?"

Dad was in sled-heaven!

All bundled up and thankful for the big weather shield on your stroller!

Woohoo!

"Let's do this!"

It's a "Rap!"

2011-01-13T18:23:00.000-08:00

Dear Keegan-
Thank you for being such a good sport when it was SO cold and we tried to squeeze in a photo session a few weeks ago. Our friend and neighbor, Lisa Rappa, took some great pictures of us and I just adore them. I think they capture your personality so well and I am so grateful she offered to do this for us! Here are some of my favorites.
Hugs,
Mom

Happy New Year!

2011-01-13T17:53:00.000-08:00

Dear Keegan,
Happy 2011! It has been a great year so far! Let me recap some of what we have been doing:
For New Year's Eve this year, we decided instead of celebrating with a bunch of random people like some year's past, we wanted to keep it more simple and close-knit with family. We wanted to be with you and knew we would have Colby to worry about with all the fireworks, so we decided to share a gift card we had with CC and Grandpa and go have some hibachi! Hi Ya!
We went over to their house early to get Colby settled and pre-party a little bit. To you, that means "stretch your legs before sitting at the table for a while." To us, that may mean something a little different. When you are big we can talk about this more. Anyway, we ended up at a long table with a couple at the other end who were very nice and thought you were pretty special. You were mesmerized by the big fires and the cooks tossing their utensils and shakers around. CC helped you make your rounds in the restaurants and say "hello" to all the guests. We ate some delicious food and then headed back to the house. When we got there you got to play a little bit more, and then we played games like Catchphrase and Taboo. We laughed and laughed and I am surprised we didn't wake you up with all the fun we were having! We watched the ball drop, had some celebratory champagne and then called it a night. To me, it was the perfect new years...spending it with the people I love. (We missed you, Adam and Jessie.)
2011 started off a little rocky with a raging sore throat for me. I ended up being sick for a few days but some amoxicillin magically knocked it right out and thank goodness you didn't catch it. Yuck.
One thing I should probably document is some of the resolutions we talked about. You and me. Here goes:
Yours:
1. I will spend more time climbing on furniture, such as the red couches, my new toy box, and the cardboard blocks I got for Christmas. Progress: very good. You have really stuck with this one. Well done, kid.
2. I will recognize the woman who brought me into this world and acknowledge her by name and stop calling her Santa, Colb Colb or Dadda. Progress: Not going well. Lucky for you, I love your every sound and will patiently wait for the first time you say "Momma." And I am overlooking the fact that you can look at a picture and point out "Ssss-Ssss" for CC. (Yep, that just started!)
3. I will throw more things down the stairs through the wrought iron baby gate at the top, with no concern for size, weight, or potential dents into the walls below. Progress: I would say we have met this goal. Be it water bottles, a laundry basket, a leather belt of Dad's or Colby's stuffed animals, at any given time there is a graveyard of items on the landing of our staircase. I guess you are working out your shoulders, right?
Mine:
1. Continue to love the heck out of being your mom. Progress: Exceeded.
I love you, bug. Can't wait for another year together!
Mom

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-28T12:43:00.000-08:00

Dear Keegan-

Merry Christmas!

We had such fun this year with you tearing into presents and climbing in and out of boxes. You said "Ho Ho Ho" and "Santa" at least 100 times each and you were the most gracious gift receiver, investigating and truly looking excited about each thing that you opened. I love that!

We kicked things off with Christmas Eve day at the Corrigan's with CC and Grandpa and Adam and Jess, Great Grandma, and Colby!

We ate brunch and you discovered CC's delicious cinnamon rolls. Mmmm! We played with some of the toys you have at their house and then you got to open some of your gifts after your nap. We played games, ate more food, played foosball and ping pong in the basement and laughed and laughed. We had our traditional delicious lasagna dinner with our funny hats and then opened presents til midnight! Here are some pictures from Christmas eve and Christmas morning:

Our annual family shot in front of their tree.

This was the first time I can ever remember where we skipped church Christmas eve, so we didn't get as dressed up as usual, but you still looked pretty cute in your Christmas sweater and khakis. PS-We went to North Point on Wed night before for their Christmas service, so that counts, right?

Santa slippers-so adorable, but kinda weird to walk in, I think!

CC and Grandpa got you this train set among lots of other things. You love it.

They loved setting it up!

Santa brought you your red chair with your name on it. I wasn't sure you would be in to it but you climbed right on with such an eager grin!

Santa also brought you your first tricyle.

You were so intrigued, and how cute is this of you looking up to Daddy to teach you how to go?

You had such fun with all your toys and got some really cool stuff. You love your shopping cart that Daddy and I bought you and all the books from your aunt Jess and Uncle Adam-especially the noisy lift-the-flap book. Whenever you are squirming in my lap between books at bedtime, I know it is because you want to reach down and get that one in the book basket next to us, and likely we have already gone through it two or three times! You got a really cool recorded story from your Great Uncle Mark and Aunt Lisa. How fun to hear their voices read to you! And you got noisy trucks and this cool turtle that makes stars on your ceiling from your Great Aunt Robin and Uncle Brian. We have fun new bath toys from your Great Grandma J-foam stickers for the wall that I am trying to convince you do NOT taste good, and a water scooping fish. Lots of clothes and another book with crazy puppy eyes from your Great Grandma C. Whew! There are toys all over this house!!

Christmas day we headed up to your Mimi and Papa's around lunch time. It started snowing on our way up and didn't stop til late that night. We had a white Christmas! It was beautiful-and I think I heard it was like the first time in 100 years that has happened!

We had another yummy meal at their house and you played with your cousins until you were worn out. You opened tons of gifts from them including a 4 foot long fire truck that lights up and makes noise. It is hard to miss! You got a cool toy box from your Mimi and Papa and lots of clothes too. Since I got a sweet new camera from CC and Grandpa, I spent some time playing with it and having your Uncle Jonathan show me a few tricks. I have yet to get those pictures off my camera, so here is one I took on my small camera of your cousins listening to your Papa read you the story of Christmas. You were playing with your firetruck, I think. Whoops. We will be sure to get you to church next Christmas Eve, I guess!

Well, buddy, I hate that Christmas is done, but I know that we have the best gift ever-YOU. Thank you for bringing us so much joy this season and always. You light up my world, little guy.

Merry Christmas, Sweetie!
Mom

Twas the night before the night before Christmas...

2010-12-23T22:25:00.000-08:00

Dear Keegan-

It's almost here! It's December 23rd and you have had a VERY long day! CC watched you during the day with Great Grandma while Dad and I were at work. We all had dinner together and then Dad had a Christmas surprise planned for all of us. We bundled you up in the car and he got off a little early along with his partner. We drove up north to Canton to a Christmas house where they decorate their ENTIRE house and yard with lights, Santas, angels, and other holiday stuff. Wow! It was pretty wild! They had tons of those light up inflatable yard decorations and Mr and Mrs. Claus were there to greet us.

Here are a few pictures I was able to snap while we were there:

Here CC is holding you in one of the rooms with LOTS of Santas.

You were determined to walk around by yourself, and LOVED watching the lights outside. It was cold, though!! Brrr!!!

12 days of Christmas

2010-12-21T09:16:00.000-08:00

Dear Keegan-
The countdown has really begun! We have been shopping and wrapping and going to parties and listening to lots of Christmas music. Here is a little catch up of what we have been doing the past few weeks getting in the Christmas spirit!

You and little Anthony play together so well. I think this picture is foreshadowing a lot of trouble you two may get in. I am not sure that is Anthony's sippy cup in his mouth AND I know big brother Alex will not be thrilled when he sees Keegan demolishing his prized train table. You boys!!

Last night we went to eat pizza at a new place called "Your Pie." Let me first say that Your Pie=My favorite new restaurant. It is near our house, they have delicious food, cool music, and last night we showed up on Kids Eat Free night. Well HELLO! That was fun too! You ate some cheese pizzza and crust and then we went on our annual Christmas Light hunt. We found some good ones in Roswell, and though you were WAY overdue for bed (hence the wretched pacifier) you loved to look at the lights and say Ho Ho Ho. It was extra special to me too because they were taking donations for the Sibley Heart Center at Children's. Plus, the lights were in sync with an FM station to play over the car stereo! Very cool.

You are still enamored with Christmas trees and we love how Grandpa (we think) taught you to put your hands behind your back to check it out. We have been redirecting you with "don't touch" but now you tend to just get up close, take a peek and walk gently with your hands almost clasped behind your back. Dad thinks it is because you are practicing standing at Parade Rest which is some sort of military term. Nope. I think it is just cute.

"Just wanted to remind you guys...I can still fit in here!"

You have also started saying some more new words. Dad said you were saying "cakepan" the other morning for your breakfast pancakes, and you know how to call Colby with "CoCo" like how I sometimes say "Colb Colb." You have gotten the hang of tossing him your unwanted food, but not before you call out "done!" Every man, woman, and child in your life is either Santa or Dadda, and as I type and you are waking up from your am nap, I hear you chanting "ho ho ho!"

We are off to run some errands this afternoon and maybe make a visit to CC's house to drop off some of our presents so our car isn't so full of them on Friday when we pack up and go for Christmas!!

Hugs!
Mom

Santa!

2010-12-14T21:35:00.000-08:00

"So...it's really you?"

"Mind if I just give it a little tug to make sure you are the real deal?"

Santa: "You know about the naughtly list, right?"

Keegan: "Done yet? I prefer my Santa up on the mantle and that Elf sitting somewhere funny in the kitchen. Let's motor!"

Keegan: "Santa was okay, but that train over there is looking right up my alley!!"

The 3 of us: "We did it. Merry Christmas!"

SNOW!

2010-12-12T09:07:00.000-08:00

Dear Keegan!
It snowed! In December! Maybe this means we will have better luck for a white Christmas this here?! Fingers crossed! We had such a fun day relaxing inside and watching the pretty snow fall. Then we went out for Uncle Adam's birthday dinner at Taco Mac-his pick. You ate some chicken fingers, threw some on the floor, and flirted with lots of folks around our table. We had our neighborhood progressive dinner-turned family party last night and you had such fun playing in the Wallace's cool playroom and with all of Dava's toys. The adults got to eat and socialize while all you little kids ran wild. I think there were about 20 adults and 10 kids. It was FUN! On Tuesday of this week, your H Aunt Allison came over (H for Honorary). She brought baby Reese for us to finally meet now that you are feeling better and they were finally in town. We didn't get to play with John but Reese was cute and you enjoyed checking her out in that carrier. Once you went down for a nap, we had some great time to chill and have girl talk -- Allison, Baby Reese, and I! :) It was a fun week!

Love you, Buddy.

Mom

December

2010-12-06T19:49:00.000-08:00

Dear Keegan-
It's December! I love it! It is my favorite time of year!!
Judging by how quickly you expanded your vocabulary in the last few days, I am guessing it may be your favorite time as well.
Let me explain:
A list of your words prior to December would be: Dadda, all done, cracker, uh oh, roar, and vroom.
In the past few days you have picked up "Santa" and "Ho Ho Ho." Funny how similar Santa sounds to Dadda, so perhaps you truly ARE the smartest kid alive to have made that connection!
You are enjoying the tree with full sensory experience. That is, you touch it, ram into it with your push toys, climb under it and I am sure had a few of those ornaments in your mouth. You are able to point out any Santa in the house and God help any remotely overweight stranger we see in red in the next few weeks. And we have the Elf on the Shelf keeping watch of your behavior too!
You have picked up a few other tricks like turning the TV on and off and climbing up on the couch! You are full on running these days and resort to your "turbo" crawl (head down, super speed) rarely when you are really on a serious mission (like trying to avoid a diaper change.)
We have a great routine of reading books before bed, and you have certainly developed some favorites. We love to read The Little Blue Truck, Dozer, and the soft book with family pictures so you can individually point to each one.
Lately when I put you to bed you lie there and give me a gentle wave. It melts my heart. Dad too. I love to hear you talk and wave and giggle.
I can't wait for all the fun things we have planned in the next few weeks.
Love and hugs, my little Elf!
Mom

A sad goodbye

2010-12-01T19:44:00.000-08:00

Dear Keegan-
We spent some time tonight thinking about your Great Grandfather Beck who passed away today. Daddy will be heading to Indiana for the funeral and since you have been sick and it is an 11 hour drive, we decided it would make more sense for the two of us to stay behind. I met your Great Grandpa when your Dad and I were engaged and he was the sweetest, most gentle man...except during intense games of UNO!
Your Dad has told me lots of stories about how brilliant he was and how esteemed he was in the military. He is where your middle name, Paul, comes from.
We will miss him, but we know he is in heaven watching us and smiling.
God bless you GGpa Beck.

So much to be thankful for

2010-11-26T19:32:00.000-08:00

The big boys ended up pulling out the soccer ball after the traditional football tossing

Just getting you ready. 5 months until we get you into the real thing. (I can't wait!)

Helping Uncle Adam with Guesstures

Dear Keegan-

Happy Thanksgiving! We had a great time spending the day at CC and Grandpa's house, eating brunch with them and Adam and Jess, and then eating our big meal just the 5 of us. Colby came, too, so we got to stay over night so I could be ready for my big Friday shopping trip!
You had a great time chasing the soccer ball outside and watching Dad climb 20 feet up a tree to rescue the football that he and Adam were tossing. We played our favorite "Game of Things" and an outdated version of Outburst and laughed and ate til we passed out. Literally.
It made me think about how blessed we are as a family. You are surrounded by people who love you and just love taking care of you and it is so great that we are here near them.
Love this time of year, and love you little guy!
Hugs-
Mom

Double trouble

2010-11-18T19:25:00.000-08:00

Dear Sweet Keegan-
Bad news. First ear infection. Both ears. I am so sorry! You have been kind of a bear to get to sleep recently, not super hungry, and just overall not yourself and Dad took you today to find you had a serious case of otitis media. Boo.
I have to say I am secretly relieved that something WAS wrong because your total 180 in demeanor was making me nervous, but I think a round of antibiotics and some TLC will do the trick to have you back up and running (literally) in no time.
Another secret I will share is that I have been able to get a little extra snuggle time with you while you have been feeling sort of puny. We took a long nap together in my big bed and you have just wanted to be held and cuddled more. I am ok with that!
It seems like a ton of kids your age in the neighborhood have had what you have too, so I think it is just the time of year and the weather and that you really just didn't get over your Halloween cold too.
Feel better, little munchkin-
I am so sorry you are sick
Love,
Mom

Monkeying Around

2010-11-16T18:20:00.000-08:00

Dear Keegan-
Today was our last day of music class so we did that this morning and got to spend some time with all the friends you made and their mommies. Then we came home and you took a snooze and then we went to Monkey Joe's! It was so fun for you because there were kids bouncing on the jumping castles and sliding down slides and you just loved soaking it all in. It was fun to be there on a weekday when it wasn't super crowded and it was nice that they have a special place for little ones like you. Thanks, Mr. Scott for telling us about it! We will have to go one day with Andrew!!!

The first bouncy house was like an ocean and Dad and I got to come in too! I first tried to climb up on the Loch Ness looking thing on the right and sit on it with you in my arms. Well, thankfully Dad didn't have the camera on at that point because it deflated as I put more weight on it and I ended up tumbling backwards and doing a back tuck off the thing. Oopsie.

You did a good job navigating all the sea creatures!

This was the 2nd time you went down the huge inflatable slide and Dad decided you were ready to do the sliding part by yourself! Holy cow! I couldn't believe how fast you came down! Note: I held you the whole way each time I did it!

However, you LOVED it and weren't scared at all!

Love you my little brave bouncing (and sliding) monkey!
Mom

We didn't invent the chicken...

2010-11-16T18:14:00.000-08:00

Dear Keegan-

Yesterday you and Dad had some guy time and went to Chick Fil A for lunch while I was at work!

You ate chicken nuggets and waffle fries for the first time ever! He said you loved your new treats and the ladies working there thought you were pretty awesome. You are pretty lucky to have such a fun dad taking you on special little trips! Just PLEASE don't pick up any spelling habit from those darn cows!!!

Love,

Mom

Sweet November

2010-11-16T17:37:00.000-08:00

Dear Keegan-

You are 13 months now, officially, and learning new things every day. Thankfully, I have been trying to take pictures and video to keep up with all of your cool new skills and this funny personality of yours we love so much. You are a riot!

Hanging out with Dad and he snapped this one. I love it!

You are walking 20-30 steps at a time and lately have been trying to challenge yourself further with carrying objects while you walk. I had to take a bunch of your toys upstairs since your trick of dropping them, ahem, throwing them, on the wood floor has not a happy Colby made!

Your CC delivered the Laugh and Learn Piano that she and Grandpa gave you for your birthday. Unfortunately when I tried to put the original one together I realized (after a mere 30 minutes or so of trying) that they had put two of the same side legs in the box, so she returned it for one that is just right. You love to bang on the keys AND dance to the music it makes on the TV. It is like a Keegan Wii!

So fun!

You are still very interested in reading...

...and pushing...

..and riding on Colby!!

...and I know if I am missing something to first check the tub!

I love you, silly boy!

Love,

Mom

Halloween Ha-ha-ha-CHOOO!

2010-11-06T18:38:00.000-07:00

Dear Keegan-
Your second Halloween. Your first cold. Such a bummer!
You made an adorable Bulldog for the twenty minutes total that you had your costume on this year, and we are so thankful that our pals, the McKinleys found that costume for you as part of your birthday gift. It was so perfect!
Thankfully, we got to go to a neighborhood party on Tuesday before Halloween (Sunday) when you were still well. It was great to see about 15 of your neighborhood friends all dressed up. We tried to get a group picture like last year, but you kids are older and not as content sitting in a long row, so I snapped a few randoms, but the group shot was a bust!

You liked the little playpen at Miss Lisa's house (the hostess of the party)

Dominic dressed as Bam Bam, Kara as a little fairy

Really wanting to play with the big boys...

By Halloween night you had been to the doctor after starting to really cough hard on Wednesday. They said it was just a cold and we would just have to wait it out. Apparently they have recalled all cold/cough meds for little munchkins like yourself so we had to rely on home remedies like ice water to help your cough and the vaporizer to make your room nice and humid. I stayed home Thursday afternoon to take care of you and I think I may have caught it then, too. So on Halloween we were both pretty miserable. We laid around and snuggled but we did manage to carve our pumpkin and get you in your costume again for a few minutes when your buddies stopped by to trick or treat.

Carving the pumpkin in your pjs since your are still feeling yucky

Quick pics

Your friends were so nice to come sit and take pictures with you since we missed Trick or Treating with them. Andrew is Elmo, Alex is a firefighter, and his little brother Anthony is the dalmation. I am just there trying to keep you from spreading your germs!

We took you right inside and up to bed right after that. It was amazing you stayed asleep since we had a TON of trick or treaters this year!

I insisted we at least get a little selfie with my quickly carved 2010 pumpkin. Then it was off to bed for my sick self!

Happy Halloween, my sweet Bulldog.

Mom

Guy time

2010-11-06T18:26:00.000-07:00

This must be what happens when Dad babysits. He has you do his chores. AND is that a knife in your hand???!!!!

Junior firefighter in training

Dressing like Uncle Adam - shorts in cold weather, Patagonia fleece. Love it!

Woah!!!

Checking out the gear at "Touch a Truck" day. You LOVE fire trucks!!

Kickoff with Keegan! Happy 1st Birthday!

2010-10-24T08:45:00.000-07:00

Dear Keegan-
Here are some pictures from your party. I have to admit, I don't have a whole lot on my camera, because we were pretty busy, but here is a little taste of what we did. And, I will hit up your grandparents and aunt Jess since I know they took a lot!
It was such a fun day for us to celebrate you with lots of family and friends!
We had the party at CC and Grandpa's new clubhouse and had a GA football tailgating theme since the party was during the UGA/Vanderbilt game. Thankfully we won, and CRUSHED Vanderbilt!
You played in the ball pit, crawled and walked all over the place and ate lots of new foods. We had cupcakes that I made and football sugar cookies, snack foods and dip and lots of kid foods and juice boxes. We set up Cornhole, and a little kid sized basktball hoop, sidewalk chalk, and a bowling game.
It was such fun! Thanks to your Corrigan grandparents for helping out soooo much and to Aunt Jess and Uncle Adam and Miss Amy for helping us get everything set up!

"It's my party and I want to PLAY!"

Fun in the ball pit with Kara

Your football smash cake

You suggesting that Dad give it a try first!

If only I had made one giant sugar cookie...those were your fave!!

Cruising around in your cake-eating outfit

Some of our friends on the porch

Birthday Boy! About to open some presents!

After a great nap...ready to play some more!

Check up check in

2010-10-22T18:11:00.000-07:00

Dear Keegan-
Today was your 12 month check up! Yes, you did have to get some shots, but I did you a solid and put one off until 18 months, the MMR. We can talk more about why I did that when you are bigger, but for now, just realize I tried to do as few as possible. You are more than welcome.
Here is what we found out today:
Height 32 inches (over the 95th percentile). Weight 24 pounds (70ish percentile). Head circumference 19 inches (90th percentile). You are staying pretty much on your same track which is great! Doctor was pleased and she gave us the green light to change a few things in your life. We are drinking REAL milk now. No more formula! YEAH! And, you can eat peanut butter since we don't have family history of any peanut allergies, that we know.
Some of the other things you have learned now include taking 10-15 steps on your own (!), saying "dadda" "all done" and "go" pretty consistently, drinking from a straw in addition to various sippy cups, waving bye, giving hi fives, and sometimes doing the "Gooooo dawgs" cheer (when the Dawgs are playing well, that is!)
You love to play with your trucks, balls, cars and books. You can climb the three steps on your slide and throw your leg over to pretty much do it all by yourself. You love your tunnel and climbing up the stairs. Colby gives you a giggle anytime he comes near, and you love to throw your hands over his back and give him a kiss. You love to play with us but you also are content to investigate toys on your own and pull out your flashcards and try to say the words OR throw the cards all over your room. You are so fun and learning every day.
I love that you are so social and easy to pass to pretty much any friend or relative who wants to hold you. You recognize names and get excited when Daddy walks in the door and sad when he leaves.
I love you to pieces and I am so proud of you, big guy!
Love,
Mom

What a special day!

2010-10-14T23:07:00.000-07:00

Dear Keegan-
I can't believe a year has already gone by and you are one now! What an amazing year we have shared! You have lit up my world with your enormous grin, infectious giggle, and cuddly hugs. I never imagined how wonderful it could have been and a year ago last night when I was wincing in pain, I would have multiplied it by a million if I knew you were the outcome.
Pretty much every night, after you have been tucked in bed and your dad or I check on you, one of us without fail will come out, look at the other and say "Gosh, he is so awesome." You really are. You still take my breath away every time I look into your sweet face, and I have a hard time being too sad about you growing up because I am just so excited for all the neat things you are doing now and the wonderful things I know God has in store for you.
I love you more than you will ever know...
Well, maybe once you have a little one of your own you will know.
Thank you for being my punkin punkin and sweet sweeeeeet sweeeeeeeeeeet baby. You will be both of those to me forever.
God bless you big one year old!
Mom

Happy Birthday, Big Boy(s)!

2010-10-14T23:00:00.000-07:00

Dear Keegan and Matt-

Happy birthdays!

I love you both so much!
Love,

Mom (Kelly)

The next American Idol

2010-10-05T14:27:00.000-07:00

Dear Keegan-
In all the excitement of the past few weeks, I can't believe I didn't write about our music class!
We started last Tuesday at a nearby church where there are several classes of kids your age (about 9 to 18 months is the range, I think). It is so fun!
We go every Tuesday from 10:00 to 10:45 for 8 or 10 weeks. We got a CD of all the songs and we have been really jamming out in the car. You absolutely LOVE it!
Today in class we used rhythm sticks and scarves as part of our music and movement. There is a little scripture reading and message and you have made friends with the 10 other kids and their moms. I am so glad I am able to do this with you!
Love, you little rockstar!
Mom

Scarecrow Festival

2010-10-05T14:19:00.000-07:00

Dear Keegan-
This past weekend was absolutely gorgeous again. Your Dad played tennis on Saturday morning, and I got to play in the warm sun on Sunday. After his match, we headed to Alpharetta for the Scarecrow Festival.
Schools and groups from the city created scarecrows that were placed on lampposts or telephone poles all the way down Main Street. They were so cute and fun to look at. Your dad was partial to the Chick Fil A cow, surprise surprise and I like the Space Camp one (for obvious reasons).

Dad's favorite

One of my favorites

You slid down the big inflatable slide like the big kids, too!

"Let's do it again!"

I know we have lots more fun planned this month! Can't wait, buddy!

Love, Mom

Updates, Updates!

2010-10-05T14:10:00.000-07:00

We have some steps!!!

Last week, I had my camera in hand because I had just been joking with Dad about how I should make a post called "What Not to Wear - Baby Edition" for putting you in this outfit that is clearly too small. Well, lo and behold you happened to show off by taking a few unassisted steps to Dad! HUGE!!!
And maybe the karaoke gene from me DID get passed down...

This could be so much more time efficient than your bath...

It's getting cooler in Atlanta, so we brought out your CUTE and warm winter clothes!

Livin' the Moontime

2010-10-05T14:05:00.001-07:00

Dear Keegan-

September 25th was a very special day for us. Your Dad and I went to see Widespread Panic in Alpharetta! You are wearing your WSP onesie in this picture, but unfortunately it was getting cooler and we had just thrown some PJ pants on you. Anyway, CC came to babysit you while Dad and I went to the show. Uncle Adam and Jess were there along with some of their fun friends. It was a blast! Don't worry, there will be PLENTY more that you can come to maybe when you are a little bigger, my little wrangler!

Love, Mom

Gatlinburg

2010-10-05T13:19:00.001-07:00

Dear Keegan-
Two weeks ago, we took a trip to Gatlinburg with your Mimi and Papa, Aunt Lindsey and Uncle Johnathan, cousins, and Great Aunt Karen. It was a special place for them because Dad and Aunt Lindsey used to go there for family reunions when they were little.
We stayed in a cabin (or as they call it, a "chalet") at the top of a mountain. We went up steep and winding roads and had a very pretty view of the Smokey Mountains from our deck and back huge windows. The weather was beautiful and it was fun to spend time with family and get to play with your cousins more. Aslyn made you laugh hysterically and Odyssey mostly tried to steal your toys. We played games and ate tons of delicious food, and we went down in the town a few times. I am not going to lie...It was a little weird. Lots of airbrushed tee-shirts, candy stores, "Ripley's Believe It Or Not" and pancake houses. But, we embraced it and soaked up the sights, sounds, and smells. And, it was truly very cool how they had lots of harvest decorations up everywhere. Here are some pictures and more details about what we did!
P.S. You were really good in the car for 4+ hours each way there and back. Love you, punkin!

This was a place called "Ogle's Farm." I was picturing pigs, cows, and corn, but it was actually more of a historic site. It was very green and hilly and Dad had to lift your stroller most of the trail and over a log bridge (Go, Dad!) There was an old cabin and we wheeled you through it. Aslyn started hopping on the way out and you thought that was hilarious! You can even see your little legs kicking with excitement in this picture!!

Playing chase in the chalet with your fire trucks and bus. Aslyn was such a good "lifeguard" to always keep an eye on where you were and make sure you weren't climbing up the wood stairs!

These are REAL bear claw marks on the wooden trash can holders outside. YIKES!

You had your first taste of some pizza crust. YUM!

This was one of the fall displays they had outside in the town. I thought it looked like us. In fact, I think Dad has that vest.... ;)

Playing Peek a Boo with your Mimi

Big family picture on the porch

Happy fall!

Game Day!

2010-09-18T13:51:00.000-07:00

GOOOOOOO Dawgs!

Just two boys watching the game...

A Day in the Life of Me...

2010-09-18T12:59:00.000-07:00

"What do y'all think about me moving some stuff around in here?"

The wheels on the bus go 'round and 'round...and 'round and 'round and 'round...

It's a four alarm fire!

Babies!!! (And drooling in books!)

Mom's closet aka Keegan's Personal Six Flags

It keeps you entertained for a while if we are showering or getting ready and it makes for a great crawl trek or game of chase from your room!

First Day of School

2010-09-16T21:28:00.000-07:00

Dear Keegan-
Today was a heartwrenching day for your Dad and me.
Your Mimi was unable to watch you today like usual so we had to scramble to get childcare for you at the last minute since we both REALLY had to be at work. Thankfully, I had just talked to Aunt Jess about having you go to her preschool if we were ever in a pickle, and lo and behold, it was pickle time! I called her and asked if it would be at all possible to bring you and she said "Sure! No problem!"
I talked to her about 17 times last night about what to pack, how to check in with her, and I typed a page about all the things you like and do, your doctor info, and all of that. I wrote your name on all of your stuff and packed a bag full of lunch, bottles, and a changes of clothes. Oh, and my cell phone number and "It's totally ok to call me" about 17 more times.
Dad had to do the hard part of dropping you off at 11:30 and I was scheduled to pick you up at 6.
Well, you would think I was sending you off to summer camp the way I was nervous and missing you. Really in my head I knew you would have a blast and do great, but it was more me I was really worried about.
We have been so blessed to have you watched by family ONLY in the past 11 months, that I just felt bummed that this day one of us wasn't there with you. BUT actually they were! Aunt Jess's office looks right into the baby room where you were. She texted me right when you got there and said you were doing great. What a relief! After my lunch meeting, I found this picture of you emailed from her saying that you were having a blast:

I had a huge smile on my face and a little tear in my eye. I showed 17 people who all knew I was a nervous nellie and to tread lightly on me that day. I should have known you would adapt just fine, find friends, and flash that huge grin like the big grown up boy you are becoming. So proud!
My day went on and luckily my last patient was able to come earlier so I could rush to get you at 5:00 and not 6:00 -- again, because of me. Not you. Aunt Jess sent me a few more messages and then this picture at about 3:30:

This was taken from her window during "nap time." You were flirting with her and grinning STILL! When I picked you up, the teacher said you and 3 other boys your age all played and had your cribs near eachother and refused to sleep AT ALL. Hilarious! You were the life of the party!

When I picked you up, you were chilling in your little feeding table with your sippy cup and peach puffs, happy to see me, but just as content as can be. You zonked out in the car and I held you and played with you until you crashed that night.

What an emotional day but such a big help from Aunt Jess and a special feeling to know she was there looking out for you, and you were being your sweet smiley self.

I love you and I am MOST proud! And we love you, too, Aunt Jessie!
Mom

Happy 11 month birthday, Keegan!

2010-09-14T18:30:00.000-07:00

Dear Keegan-
Happy 11 months today!
Today was extra special because it was also my first full Tuesday off of work for a while! Next week we start our music class on Tuesdays, but today we had nothing, so we played a lot, went for a walk, and celebrated with some of your favorite things.
Let me refresh your memory on what is cool to you right now:
1. You LOVE trucks and anything with wheels that you can push around. You love your Tonka fire truck that lights up with sirens and your Fisher Price bus, which sadly is not the new model but the old boxy kind with the bubble gum heads that ride inside. You LOVE that thing, though, and you push and follow it from room to room upstairs and downstairs. And, we are very thankful for CC and Grandpa's neighbor who gave you a bunch of those cool toys!!
2. In the spirit of pushing things, another favorite pastime has become rearranging the downstairs furniture. While I think the wood floors are sometimes sort of a pain, you feel otherwise and skate around pushing chairs and the kitchen barstools all over the place. Once one gets stuck, you move on to the next. I even moved the couches around today to give you a better path. (Sure, you can thank me later.)
3. Goldfish crackers-YUM. I still smush them up into Goldfish smithereens, but you cannot get enough of those things. And, thank goodness for the mega carton, so we will likely NEVER run out! You are also trying new foods as I get more and more brave - like toast with apple butter, banana bread, and boiled carrots. Dad said you were tossing carrots right and left the other afternoon, but you have done ok with them for me. Nice work.
4. Babies. Pictures of babies, videos of yourself, or any child in your line of vision under the age of 10. You love to watch them, touch them and giggle your little heart out when you see them. I always add to it by squealing "beeby!" when we see one too. So much for the no-baby talk zone. Guilty. However, please see number 5-
5. Yes, you love to talk and babble. I still hear lots of bababa and mamamas. You are doing a "ga" when we get near your trucks and it makes me wonder if you are associating the "ready set GO" with the vehicles. I'm sorry, did someone say genious?? Just kidding. But I love pretty much any sound that comes out of your mouth these days. There is one I am not such a HUGE fan of (the infamous moan/whine) but I know that usually means "get me out of this car/highchair" or "I am hungry, Mom, remember?" And, I know that it is your only way of communicating right now. Hall pass granted.
6. Stairs and playing chase. These should be listed as number one. When you are playing downstairs and the bottom gate isn't closed, you will book it to the stairs, and scoot around the metal gate door fast enough so it doesn't swing too hard and smack you in the diaper. Then, you giggle like crazy as you tear up the first few steps. I come running and scoop you up. You laugh. I feel dumb for forgetting to close the gate, and securely lock it in place. OR, sometimes, just sometimes, I let you hike the rest of the way up, tell you "I'm gonna get you" and hit the floor repeatedly with my hands. You die laughing. I tickle you. We start over. It is awesome and I am in awe that I get to be the mother of such a fun kid.
You really are the best!
Here are some other things we have done since the last time I wrote:
A few weeks ago your dad and Todd were scheduled to play in a cornhole tournament in downtown Woodstock as part of one of their Friday night festival things. You know that trophy on the floor of Dad's closet that you love to try and gnaw on? Yeah, same tournament. No trophy this year. Uncle Adam filled in for Todd, but they were a little rusty, I guess. It's okay, though! Your Mimi and Papa came to watch and we ended up eating with them and Adam since Aunt Jessie was out of town. That same weekend, Adam surprised Jess by painting in their house. We went over to check it out and deliver pizza to your hardworking uncle and CC and Grandpa. It looks so good! And now we will hopefully get to help with your cousin Mattie's room before she comes in January! YAY!
We have had some fun playdates recently with Allison and John, and our neighbors and friends, too. We went down to Buckhead to see Allison and John and you loved playing with all of his toys, trying out their wood stairs, and stealing John's pacifier when he wasn't looking. We got to see John's baby sister's room too as it is in progress and we can't wait to meet her in October, right around your birthday hopefully! This weekend we went over to Adrienne and Brian's house to watch football and have a cookout. Dad had to work which was no fun, but you stayed up so late wired from playing with all the boys that you got to see him for a little bit before bed. They had a fun playroom with lots of boy toys and you got to play with Alex and Anthony and Andrew while Griffin chilled and the parents ate and talked.
You also had a tennis filled weekend as Dad played on Saturday morning, and you guys came to watch me play on Sunday. I love this fall weather and being able to sit and play outside. We have had dinners out on our new bigger deck and it is just perfect!
Well, it is off to bed for me and off to check on you in a little bit. Dad's home! I love you, sweet boy. Happy 11 months!
Mom

August Round Up

2010-08-31T13:18:00.001-07:00

Dear Keegan-
I posted some pictures to help show what we have been up to lately. I feel like it was easier to show than describe a few of them so I hope the visuals help. You're welcome.
Last Thursday I raced home to let Colby out, pick you up from Mimi, and then get over to Jackson Healthcare in Alpharetta where Dad was running in a fun run 5k. Small problem. Not real "fun" for Dad, who decided it would be extra-intense to wear his SWAT gear for the race. Yeah. It's Atlanta. It's August. SWAT dudes wear bullet proof stuff. I just shake my head. We were very proud of him, though, and cheered him and the rest of the runners on near the finish line where we waited and you met a little guy named Keller who was a little younger than you.
Friday, Daddy had to work really late so you and I hung out at CC and Grandpa's after I saw my afternoon patient. You napped and I ate some yummy pizza and then you played and we headed home. Saturday, CC left for Arizona to be with her mom and we took Grandpa out (well, he took us out) to a restaurant we hadn't tried yet, but will certainly go to again: The Olde Blind Dog. Y. U. M. It was so good! We had to wait about 45 minutes for a table but we sat out on the porch and had some drinks and watched little 4th grade girl cheerleaders "pump, pump, pump it up." Then we told the next people who stood in that spot that they had to do a cheer too. They didn't. LAME-Os!! You loved watching the cheerleaders. Yikes. I guess if you are anything like your dad you will go for an older woman...just not that much older, ok?
You had a late bedtime Saturday, and slept in Sunday morning. We took a walk and played and Dad hung your swing finally. When I put you down for your afternoon nap, I told you I would have a surprise for you when you woke up. Well, you acted like it was Christmas morning and didn't sleep a wink. But, I think the swing was worth the wait. We have been on it everyday since!
Last night we took a walk with Miss Lindley and Andrew. You talked about 3/4 of the way...mostly saying "dad" or "dadda" or some variation of the word. I am not taking it too personally...yet! Just kidding, Monkey. I know that sound comes first.
I think I hear you waking up and since those top teeth have almost totally emerged, I know you will be teeth-to-crib in about 2.2.
Love you, little Beaver
Mom

"You guys have anything other than baby food around here?"

2010-08-31T13:16:00.000-07:00

"Hello!? Can Keegan come out to play?!"

2010-08-31T13:11:00.000-07:00

Uncle Adam stopped by this weekend and Keegan giggled hysterically when he would ask if he could come out to play in a very silly voice!
We can't wait for Cousin Corrigan to come out to play in 22 weeks!

Best Buds

2010-08-31T13:06:00.000-07:00

People always ask us how Colby is with Keegan. This picture pretty much sums it up. No lie, we were playing outside in the shade of our front tree and Keegan climbed up the slope to crawl in between Colby's paws and relax for a minute. We love you, Colb Colb!

2010-08-24T14:17:00.000-07:00

Loving the "Laugh and Learn Play House"

(And I kind of wish I had that when I was little, too)

Giddyup, Zebra!

Somebody get this boy some clothes!

(I forgot to post about how much you LOVE diaper/wardrobe changes these days!) Houdini strikes again!

"I'm looking for a certain one here..."

Stairs. Awesome.

WOOOOHOOOOO!!!

Shooooooeeeeeyyyy!

2010-08-24T13:39:00.000-07:00

Dear Keegan-
You are ten months now, bud! Double digits! I can't believe it, but I sure do love all the cool fun things you are doing and that some of the same old things have stayed.
We definitely still have our bedtime routine where you (and sometimes I) fall asleep snuggling in your comfy glider after we read a book and you have your last bottle. You still love the Spot books, your "Guess What I Am?" flap books, and the texture-y "That's not my ____" book. (No, a bad word does not go in the blank, by the way, dear reader.) You have a few of them: lion, sheep, bunny. We like to read those. We are still enjoying going to the pool, and have been taking lots of walks and runs in the neighborhood and at the park. I have tried hanging out with you in the yard some, but it seems like you are not a fan of the feel of grass. We will work on this my little outdoorsmen, don't worry.
The weekend before last Dad and I played kickball in a charity tournament for Alzheimer's. It was lots of fun to get out to Piedmont Park and play such a silly game. Our team didn't do so hot since our first game was against some VERY serious kickballers, but it turned out to be a nice day and Dad and I walked through the Botanical gardens on our way back to the car and I definitely made a mental note to take you there soon. It was so pretty and will be fun to stroll you through when it is a little cooler.
That weekend we also got busy with the baby gates. We have one at the bottom and one at the top of the stairs. Since Dad and CC have both decided to make you into a full fledged mountaineer, we had to block you from going up in addition to accidentally tumbling down. It is pretty amazing to watch you tackle all 14 stairs on your way up now.
This weekend we went to Riley's first birthday party and you got to see cute Hudson and Makenna, too. Riley has the same swing as you do up on their new covered deck. You had a blast trying it out, and I tried not to think about the fact that you were swinging about 15 feet over the ground. Dad is on assignment to finally get yours hung this week. (And we will keep it about 5 feet from the ground at most!) It was cool to see another 1 year birthday and start thinking about yours! It is going to be such fun!!!
We had dinner with Natalie and Todd on Sunday and you loved playing with their chocolate lab, Roxy, who licked you from head to toe while you crawled across their floor. We ate some yummy burgers, and you played and enjoyed getting into their non-childproof cabinets! Not the case for long! (wink, wink!)
This week you have tried some more new foods like graham crackers and you really love peaches and watermelon. I am going to try and make something for us tonight, too, while Dad is at work, but we both know how my cooking skills go, so don't expect much, little guy! I promise to feed you, though! :)
You are waving now, and you love to do that for hellos and goodbyes. I think you may be showing a little bit of separation anxiety, but thankfully it is not much and I can still hand you off to pretty much anyone and you will smile and giggle. Gosh, you are fun!!
Dad has had some funny times with you too like when you were finished with your bottle before a nap one day when I was at work and you kept trying to stuff it in his mouth! He said he was crying he was laughing so hard! And, you have been loving playing chase and when we pretend that your little feet are stinky and say "shoooeeey!!" really loud. (Like they smell anything less than wonderful with your little baby skin, but it is a pretty hilarious game in your world.)
Such fun we have! I am going to post some pictures and check on you soon, little sleepy boy. I sure hope those top teeth pop out one of these days since that right one seems to be HURTING! Ouch! I can't imagine.
Much love and squeezes!
Shoooooooeeeeeeeyyyyyy!
Mom

I love my silly grandpa!

2010-08-10T18:19:00.000-07:00