Lessons for my boys

I am constantly thinking of things I want my boys to know and learn from Ryan and me about life. I recently came across an article that said everything I want my boys to know. I changed some things but these are very important to me and I hope they are as important to Brennan, Shane and Owen too.

1. Dream BIG, because there’s nothing more satiating than being hungry. One of the most eye-opening experiences will be the moment you realize there’s a big world out there that’s just waiting for you to make your indelible mark on it. If you believe in yourself even half as much as Dad and I believe in you, you’ll be unstoppable.

2. You won’t be liked by everyone and that’s all right. I won’t insult you by suggesting you always let that roll off your back, as it’s bound to hurt from time to time. However, I strongly encourage you to be yourself even when others don’t recognize how special you are.

3. Do your part to protect those who can’t protect themselves. Rescue animals. Stand up for the little guy. Defend the underdog. Loyalty can be a man’s best friend too.

4. Keep smiling. It’s a cure for the common scowl.

5. Don’t do favors or charity with the expectation of gaining acknowledgement for them, or having the favors returned to you. Extend them because that’s what is in that lovely heart of yours.

6.  Love is not meant to be a fairytale; it is meant to be a work in progress. Cherish it, nurture it, embrace it, and let it lead you.

7. Take risks (safely)!

8. Keep your family and your true friends close, and surround yourself with phenomenal people.

9. You are beautiful inside and out. You won’t always feel that way when you stand in front of a mirror, look through magazines, watch TV shows, try on clothing or wear a bathing suit in front of your friends. This was often a source of difficulty for me too. The world can be cruel and relentless about appearance, and there’s a ton of pressure to be “perfect.” Be your own version of perfect. You may not feel totally comfortable in your own skin until you are in your thirties (if at all), but own it anyway. One day you’ll wake up and realize you’re no longer just pretending to be confident … you’re wearing it as a badge of honor.

10. Master the following three things: another language, how to change a tire, and how to handle your own finances.

11. Do what you love and love what you do, because passion begets more passion.

12. Foster the funny. Laughter truly is the best medicine, and should be consumed in high doses. If you find a partner who you can laugh with for the rest of your life, you’re a giant leap ahead. Beauty fades, but wit is forever. Don’t forget to have a healthy sense of humor about yourself too … Benign self-deprecation is a gift worth giving!

13. More often than not, people will expect you to behave badly … Disappoint them.

14. Never forget that you were literally the answer to our prayers. All of the dirty diapers, lack of sleep, drool, vomit, tantrums, scrapes, scars, tears, snot, and dollars spent are more than worth it, just to see you smile. Your dad and I know you may not fully appreciate our efforts until you have your own children, and we don’t expect you to. Every time you say, “I love you,” it will be a reminder of why we wake up each day trying to be the best parents we can be. I will never tire of saying those words to you. Along with how proud I am of you.

15. Take solace in the fact that I will forgive you, even in the moments when you aren’t willing to forgive yourself. Rest assured, I love you with all I have. When you are exceedingly angry with me, and all other reasoning is out the window, please know that fact is true above all else.

Owen's First Steps!

Owen offically took his first steps (unaided) last evening! It was maybe 2 steps but still! PT thinks he'll be walking within the month.

I think Brennan's more than ready to go back to school. He needs someone other than me to teach him letters and numbers. He's constantly wanting Shane to do what he wants him to do. He plays nicely with Emma but I think he needs to be around his school friends again too.

Marylynne and the fam came down this past weekend. The boys got a ton of gifts from them and had a great time hanging! Brennan was his normal worried self but quickly warmed up. Owen wouldn't let Marylynne hold him but she got some good quality time with the kids. She loves Shane's name and would cuddle with him. Katelyn helped me watch Owen so I could relax.

Work is getting better as I'm understanding how they work!

It was a crazy busy weekend!

Owen's 1 year well check

Owen had his 1 year well check. He's 21 lbs 1 oz, 44th percentile for weight. For height he's only in the 35th percentile!! OMG I don't think we have a basketball player on our hands. I think the older boys were always in the 70th percentile.

Got 4 shots and Brennan was so nervous for him! He had to leave the room when it happened.

Random Updates

Owen is still napping in the morning and having a short afternoon nap. Some days if he gets up late (7) then I wait til noon to put him down. He's starting to stand for longer periods. No steps yet. Very picky eater.

Shane's audiology appt went much better than the first one!  They aren't ready to discharge him due to this one test that he failed. But she thought it was due to background noise (aka Owen). So she wants to see him in January/February. His speech is really coming along now I feel. He always wants me to 'kickle his yegs.' (tickle his legs). He still says words that I don't understand. No interest in potty training. Loves Monsters Inc and Peter Pan. Still naps almost everyday but if he doesn't, he's fine.

Brennan still is struggling to let go of his beesh. I cannot believe we haven't gotten rid of it yet but then again it would make nighttime horrible for us. He is into video games now with Ryan on the Wii. Him and Shane go up in Brennan's room a lot and just play. It's so nice. My mom joined the pool so he loves going there. Loves to swim and play outside.

Owen's 1!

I cannot believe my Owen is 1!!! His actual birthday was busy with errands, appts. But his big party was yesterday. Everyone we love was there. He had a great time!

August 2, 2012

'Happy Birthday to you...'

Uncle Russ, Alexa and Owie

Silly Sabos

Jilly and Tom



Jack