MAUI

R.I.P. Maui Cat

July 4, 2004 - September 2, 2017

Peanut- 5 Months

What’s new? 

The last month has been my favorite with Jack so far. He's such a fun baby, and so advanced! He rolls both ways, (left and right)  all over the house. I can put him down in one spot, usually on a blanket and he winds up on the opposite side of the living room. He is already in the first stages of crawling, which is both exciting and terrifying at the same time. Baby gates are coming up! And he can sit up by himself for small periods at a time. He has been able to put himself up in a sitting position but I've only caught it after he's sat up, never while in the act of getting there. 

We had a really nice visit with Great Grandma Joanie and GrandMary. I will have a little post about that soon.

He is fully nap trained, to the point that he depends on and needs 3 naps a day and he has recently started sleeping in his nursery by himself at night. He still wakes up once, (SOMETIMES twice) usually around 3:30am for a feeding. Last night however, he slept the through the night! Because I'm at home during the day, I don't mind the night wake-ups to feed if that's what he wants/needs. I think once we start solids (in just a few weeks) the wake-ups will be less and less often. He is showing a major interest in food while Wes and I eat. I can't even drink water while breast feeding, he's so curious. 

He loves to 'explore' my face with his hands and can blow raspberries with his mouth. He is a very happy, mellow baby and brings a new joy to our lives every day. I have been having a hard time taking our weekly block photos because Mr. Nut does not like to sit still. I have given up for now and will just continue to take daily pictures. 😂

Stats:

Because of re-scheduling and summer vacations, we never actually had a 4 month wellness check. Instead we had one on his 5 month birthday. That included vaccines 😫. The doctor said he was growing at a nice steady pace weighing in at 15lbs 14oz and 26.75" putting him at the 35th and 82nd percentile. 

Hair:

One day, Jack woke up and he had hair! It's very, very blonde and beautiful. The little duck tail is starting to blend in and curl a bit. His rear view is one of my favorites. 

Eyes:

Dad seems to think his eyes are still really blue but to me they are starting to turn blue green. Time will tell! I think both of us are secretly hoping he'll have our own eye color. Haha! 

Clothes:

3 month clothing was packed away a couple weeks ago. We are in 3-6 and straight 6 month clothing now. He sleeps in 6 month sleepers and currently wears size 3 diapers.

Feeding:

Jack eats great, usually every couple of hours. His longest stretches are at night. He LOVES milksicles that I make him in this hot weather. I almost can't wait to feed him solids! But I will. 😬

Likes:

Jack loves to 'crawl'. I keep thinking, "This week is going to be the week it really happens." and while we are SO close, he's just not quite there, yet. He loves milksicles and exploring literally everything with his mouth. Jack is still a big fan of jumping in his jumperoo, and has discovered a few more of the toys attached to it. He likes his Baby Einstein activity table and really enjoys his activity gym that we have just converted into ball pit mode. Jack also likes to rough house on the floor with Dad and playing referee while he watches his puppies play outside.

He jumps so hard, he falls asleep. LOL

Dislikes: 

This month, I'm not really sure what Jack dislikes... He's so easy and seems to not mind things he didn't like before. He's not a fan of a dirty diapers. 

Mama Update: 

I'm feeling good! Hair is still shedding but is looking like it's on the cusp of becoming regular again. I'm able to wear more and more of my pre-pregnancy clothes although they're not fitting quite the same. I'm still not anywhere I would consider comfortable with my body but for now, I'm okay with it.  

Looking Forward To:

We are looking forward to solid foods. Avocado will be the first thing we try! 

Great Grandma Joanie Visits & Peanut Does Vegas

The month of August was an exciting one!

(Great) Grandma Joanie Honey came to visit. She is a very special person in my life and I am so happy that she was able to make the journey from Spokane, to meet little Peanut.

The day she arrived, we had ribs, coleslaw and corn muffins for dinner and stayed up late catching up on fun memories and preparing for our road trip to Vegas following day.

Jack warmed up to her almost instantly, as I knew he would. He was very interested in her 

grandma wrinkles.

The next morning, the three of us said good bye to Dad and set out to visit Grandma Mary. 

Once again, Jack was a traveling Angel. He slept most of the way there and hung out the time when he was awake. Before we left, I cut tube sox to put around his carseat straps so they wouldn't rub against his neck for the 5 hour drive. They seemed to really help and I have kept them on but fixed the raw edges.

While Peanut slept, Grandma Joanie and I got to reminisce about old times, talk about the exciting new ones to come and I listened as she told me stories of when she was young and when my Mom (Grandma Mary) was little. Having her along for the car ride was beyond helpful and made the time pass quickly. It was also really nice to have a long stretch of time, just the two of us.... and baby Jack.

Once we arrived in Vegas and settled, we set up the door jumper so Jack could stretch out his legs.

And we sent Dad some cute video texts

Day two in Vegas we went to lunch and met with (Uncle) Chris and his girlfriend, Sara. Jack was teething and really cranky so this day was a little tough but we still managed to get a cute photo while we were out. His face 😂

Most of our visit we spent together at home, relaxing. Grandma Mary got Peanut a big stuffed elephant, which loves! He seems to especially like gnawing on the tusks.  

The drive home was just as easy as the drive there. Jack slept the majority of the ride. Wes sure was happy to have us home. It was the longest time we had all been apart. He missed Jack and it was pretty clear that Jack missed him. 

That night we went out to the Fish District for some fish and chips and a beer.

On Saturday we took Grandma to San Juan Capistrano for pizza at Selma's, and then across the street to the San Juan Mission.

It was a beautiful, perfectly sunny day with a nice cool breeze. The Mission was hosting an event later that night and had a Beatles cover band. While we were walking the grounds, the band was rehearsing and working on sound check. They sounded great, and it was fun to have a sneak peek performance! Grandma sang and bopped to the music as we explored.

I carried around an umbrella so Jack wouldn't get a sun burn. He wasn't quite at the age to wear sunscreen yet. We looked silly but it worked! No sunburns! 

Can you tell he's teething? #droolybug

The Koi pond is my favorite to see at the Mission. Jack wasn't too interested but I have a feeling, when he's a bit older he'll love watching the fish swim around. They stay really close to the surface, letting the lilly pads brush against their backs.

When we got home, we sat outside with a couple of beers and watched Jack (attempt) to sit up. He did okay for a few seconds but he was even better at face planting! 😂

The last day with Grandma we went shopping for (much needed) baby gates, had lunch at Avilla's and then later that evening, walked down to Town Center to hear a Motown band play. 

Jack is one cool kid and got his groove on while he played air guitar.

The week went by too quick. Like the last two months. It's near the end of October and I'm just now getting this post up! Today, October 20th, (I backdate my posts at the time they happen and not the time I am writing) is Grandma Joanie Honey's 83rd Birthday.  So Happy Birthday Grandma! I've been thinking about you all day. 😊

Never Say Never

As a first time Mom, before and while I was pregnant I had a list of things I told myself I would NEVER do. Now I know better. I'm writing this down see what else changes after baby #2.

1. Post a million pictures on social media. I used to roll my eyes at the parents who would post a pic of their kid every. single. day. Now I am one of those mother's. 😂 My excuse being that all of our family lives out of state but really it's because I truly feel I'd be doing a disservice to the world by not showing him off.

2. Breast feeding in public and not giving AF. All dignity and modesty goes out the window after giving birth. If I have a crying, starving baby and I'm at the mall, Target, the airport, a restaurant or even a wedding- it doesn't matter. I will whip out a boob and not think twice to feed my Peanut. I DO NOT CARE.

3. I'm a diaper snob. Before kids, I didn't think there was a difference. BUT THERE IS. A big one. We've tried all different kinds and it's Pampers for us. If I'm doing off brand, Target's Up & Up brand is okay but that's about it. Now when making diaper cakes, I will always use Pamper's diapers.

4. I used to be a hand me down snob. But that's changed too. If it's clean or cleanable and in good condition, we will take it! Some of Peanut's favorite things (his swing and jumperoo) were handed down to me from friends and they have been life savers! I have a ton of hand me down books and clothes as well. I'm still picky about the condition of the item but I know my friends are clean 😉

5. I am not grossed out by ANYTHING when it has to do with my kid. I pick his nose like it's my own. Suck his snot out with my mouth (using the nosefrida), wash his hiney with my bare hands in the tub. Wipe his drool with my finger or my own clothing if necessary. I even kind of enjoy changing a dirty diaper- but that may change when we introduce solids.

6. Let myself go. I do miss, having my hair and make-up done every day for work. Now, I'm at home all day and have only a few things that are good to wear for easy breast feeding. My hair is shedding so badly that I only like to have it up to keep lose hairs from falling on my body *shiver* and make-up is pointless. I feel bad for Wes 😜 but right now, I don't have the time. I'm telling myself this is a temporary thing. Once I can fit back into all of my clothing, maybe I'll feel more apt to put myself back together and feel like a human again. Until then, I'll rock wearing spit up and poo. Eh, whatever. Rub a wet wipe on it and it's all good.

Which brings me to 7... I consider wet wipes to be a legitimate way of cleaning. On my hands, clothing, to wipe Jack's face or as make-up remover for me, etc. Who knew they were so amazing?! I like Amazon's Element brand for sensitive skin in the purple package.

8. Let Peanut cry it out. There have been tough days where he has been fussy and just a monster to be around. In order to keep my sanity, I have buckled him in his swing and left him to wail so I can take a 20 minute hot shower and gather my thoughts. I have learned that a baby will not die from crying for a little bit and it's either that or I jump out the window. If Jack had to choose between the two, I think he'd prefer to cry in his swing... I also let him cry it out in his crib at nap time. Lots of times he goes right down but if he doesn't, and I know he's tired, I'll let him cry. It usually doesn't take too long  but if he needs to wear himself out crying to take a nap, so be it.

9. Not keeping up with household chores. Peanut's nap time is Mama's quiet time. Sometimes watching Real Housewives with a cup of coffee in peace is more important than doing laundry or the dishes.

10. I never in a million years thought I would be annoyed having my wiener dogs. I now have little to no tolerance towards them when they don't listen. They often get most of my aggression during the day, which makes me sad. But gosh darn if they would just behave, it would be easier for everyone. They do not get the love and affection that they used to. Having a Peanut is a big change for everyone. I'm hoping things will get better for us and for them as Jack gets older. Right now, it's too hard to go to the park every day by myself with an infant. And they are terrible walkers, so that's out of the question. They're still very loved, just in a different way than before.

West Coast Farners Visit the East Coast Farners! 6.22.17 - 6.28.17

Last month the West Coast Farners visited the East Coast Farners for a week to be apart of Uncle Andy and Auntie Christine's wedding!

It was Jack's first big trip and first time on an airplane. I was pretty nervous about flying with a 3 month old. We flew to JFK airport where we had an hour and a half layover and another hour plane ride to Boston and then a two hour car ride from Boston to Putnam, Connecticut. It was a lot of travel but Peanut did just fine. Slept basically the whole trip and looked cute while doing so!

After the long travels we arrived at our home for the week! Uncle Tim and Auntie Sheena's house. 😊 We took naps and relaxed a bit before going out to Mexican to see the rest of our family. 

Our cozy home for the week. Aunt Sheena thought of everything.

We had a rock n' play, a pack n' play and a glider to nurse in.

And even weenie wine! 😅

The Mexican restaurant was literally called 'The Mexican Restaurant.'😂

A very jet legged little Peanut.

Auntie Sheena and sweet baby Brooklyn

The second day we woke up and chatted over coffee while the babes played a little. It was nice to catch up and relax.

Jack looks unsure but on the inside he's having a blast! Next time we visit will be even 
more fun when the babies are a little older and can play together.

This day was also Jack's 13 week birthday! We borrowed Brooklyn's weekly photo spot to take our picture. When in Rome!

Later, we all got ready and went to the wedding rehearsal followed by dinner at a place called The Golden Greek.

Just a couple of sisters hanging out after the rehearsal 

Me with Auntie Christine and baby Brooklyn.

At the Golden Greek, We ordered the lobsta!

Wes was so excited to get his hands on some east coast crustacean. 🍤 I was surprised that the whole head arrived with the tail.... It felt like the duck at the end of A Christmas Story. "It's smiling at me!" I didn't eat that part.

Funny enough, they had a 'Mr. Peanut' sign at the restaurant, so obviously we 
needed a family photo in front of it.

Jack was wore out by the end of the night. He actually slept through (most of) the night 

every day we were there.

The next day, June 23rd, was the wedding day (and Jack turned 3 months old)! He hung with the ladies while we got our hair done, put on our make-up and tied each other into our dresses.

The cousins rode down the aisle together in a wagon and were a huge hit with the wedding guests. 

I think this picture sums up the 1st half of mine and Sheena's day. 😂

We had ordered shoes to arrive (guaranteed) the day before the wedding but of course, 

they didn't make it in time, so bare feeties it was! 

The ceremony was lovely. Aunt Christine looked beautiful. 

After the wedding we gathered before heading to the photo sites, and then on to the reception.

Baby toesies and peach colored rosies

The Farner Family

Uncle Tim and Wes made a speech together. They prepped the entire night before, with a little 

help from Sheena and myself. It was pretty funny and also adorable.

Me and the lovely bride.

The happy couple 💕

Jack partied till he couldn't party no more. 

The next day we went to the Farner Family lake house cottage for a little RnR. 🎣

The Moon family came to hang out too!

#momlife

Jack got some quality time with Grandpa and Grandma

And he really hit it off with Hannah Moon 🌙

College buds with babes (Adam and Wesley)

Beautiful Hannah

A couple of tired but happy Mamas 

Exactly 2 weeks apart! Jack, 3.23.17 and Brock 4.6.17

The last night Grandma and Grandpa came over for some yummy Chinese take-out.

Looks like Jack takes after his Dad. He loves an ice cold beer 🍺

After dinner Grandma and Grandpa babysat the kiddos while us parents slipped out for some drinks and dessert. It was my first night leaving Peanut to be babysat and while I knew he was in great hands it was hard for me to leave.... At first! Then We hopped into this sweet ride and for a few hours I enjoyed some adult time with a few of my favorite people.

Sheena's cute little fun car 🐞🚘

I called shotgun 

Bros

Grandma kept us updated of the ongoings at home.

Grandpa is the baby whisperer and had Jack asleep in no time!

We cruised the town and got ice cream cones 🍦

Such a fun last night

The next day we ended the trip just like it began. At The Mexican Restaurant. 

Wesley getting in some last Brooklyn snuggles

Grandpa and Peanut

Thanks for the hospitality Uncle Tim, Auntie Sheena and little Brooklyn! 

Waiting for our flight home at the airport.

The weather had been beautiful all week but on our drive from Putnam to Boston a storm came in and delayed our flight 2 hours while we sat on the tarmac. Little Peanut was an angel and stayed on my lap, asleep for the final 8 hours of our trip. 👼

We'll See you again in November, East Coast Farners! 💖