The Life of Weston

Happy Mother's Day

2010-05-09T18:08:00.002-05:00

Getting my ears pierced at age nine is still a vivid memory for me. I can still remember the layout of the jewelry store in the mall, the tall chair I sat on, and the sound of the piercing gun right next to my ear. Perhaps the most poignant of memories was knowing that I wasn't yet a teenager, but there I sat at age nine, getting my ears pierced, a rite of passage specifically reserved for a thirteen year old.

A few years before her passing, mom told me that when she was diagnosed with leukemia, she wanted to experience all of the milestones in my adolescent journey, and getting my ears pierced was one of those steps along the way. I was in third grade, just nine years old, when she was given six months to three years to live. It was then that mom decided that breaking her rule of "only teenagers should have their ears pierced" was meant to be broken.

A funny thing happened along the way, though. She beat the odds... big time. It wasn't until 22 years later that she succumbed to her disease.

She witnessed things that she was pretty much guaranteed to miss in her children's lives... summer vacations at the beach, first dates (well, at least for my brother), high school graduations, college graduations, weddings, and the birth of her first grandchild.

Of course, her survival could merely be her placement along the bell curve. But, I also think her zeal and desire for just one more moment gave her the impetus to hang on through some serious complications of leukemia for just one more minute, hour, day, week, year.

Of course I miss my mom. She had a gift of making everyone laugh. We argued A LOT, but nothing more than what is expected from moms and daughters. Now that I have two children of my own, I want to try and keep her memory alive by truly living not just for those years or weeks, but for the days, hours, and seconds. None of us is guaranteed our next breath. Goodness knows, I don't advocate carelessness. If you know me at all, I am nothing but cautious. But, I should try and take stock of things that matter... playing outside with my boys, when I'd much rather be inside reading a book... spending money at the zoo when I really need (okay "want") a new pair of shoes.

I know that I will be successful as a mom if my kids love me only half as much as I loved my mom. And as much as I miss just picking up the phone and hearing her voice, I am so thankful for the time I had with her. I always think of the line, "better to have loved and lost, than to have never loved at all." I was very fortunate to have such a healthy parent-child relationship, and although our time together was cut short, it was full of wonderful, loving memories. What better legacy to leave your children?

Happy Mother's Day!!!

Spring is in the air!

2010-04-11T21:45:00.000-05:00

A Weston Funny

2010-03-28T11:27:00.000-05:00

Picture this:

Toy Section of Target.

Me: I want that.

Mama: That's too expensive, honey.

Me: But, I like expensive things!

Yep, Mama's in big, big trouble.

Love,

Weston

Hippity Hoppity Easter's on its Way

2010-03-28T11:24:00.000-05:00

Insert your own entertaining commentary here... I'm all out of ideas.

Love,

Weston

Just a little eye candy...

2010-03-15T10:06:00.005-05:00

Sous-Chef

2010-03-08T10:19:00.004-06:00

I got to help make daddy's birthday cake yesterday! His birthday isn't until tomorrow, but we made his birthday cake a few days early. Who needs a birthday when you can have a birthweekend? I thought he would enjoy chocolate cake with sprinkles and that's exactly what he got.

It wasn't the prettiest cake in the world, but tasty trumps pretty any day. And, boy was it tasty!!

Even Davis enjoyed the festivities. That boy can eat some cake!

Only six more months until my birthday... I can hardly wait!

Love,

Weston

Flying Pigs

2010-02-14T20:20:00.004-06:00

News flash: Hell has frozen over and pigs are flying overhead. Impossible? Not nearly as impossible as 12 inches of snow in Richardson, TX. And not just the icy, sleety wintry mix that curses our terrain... we got big, huge fluffy snowflakes, as if God decided to shake a feather pillow.

A good time was had by all. Chances are, I'll remember the Great Texas Blizzard of 2010, but poor Davis may never see snow again. Poor thing.

By the way, after a 40ish degree weekend, the snowman has seen better days. I think he lost his head today. Sorry Frosty...

Love,

Weston

One of these things does not belong...

2009-11-18T21:40:00.004-06:00

Mama: So, what do you want Santa to bring you this year for Christmas?
Me: Trains, train tracks... oh, and some telephone poles and some dirt... and some signs.
Mama: Well, what does Davis want from Santa?
Me: Baby food.
Mama: No toys?
Me: Yeah, he wants a rattle.

I better get a telephone pole this year or I will have a MAJOR freak out. Major.

Love,

Weston

Mmmmmm... cupcakes!

2009-10-20T20:38:00.003-05:00

My brother, Davis, has never met a food he hasn't liked. For him, it's not eating... it's a full contact sport. What a little piggy. I'm much more delicate when eating a cupcake...

11 Months

2009-09-14T09:41:00.003-05:00

Little Brother is 11 months old today. Time flies...

Three

2009-09-13T18:34:00.004-05:00

Someone once said that whoever coined the phrase "Terrible Twos" never had a three-year old. As of yesterday, I made my official entrance into the "Trying Threes."

try⋅ing

–adjective: extremely annoying, difficult, or the like; straining one's patience and goodwill to the limit: a trying day; a trying experience.

Enough said.

My post-birthday celebration has involved a series of nuclear-style meltdowns, including screaming, kicking, biting, and foaming at the mouth. I am serious about the foam.

In spite of the massive temper tantrums, I've had a wonderful three years. How does one describe my three-year existence? Outdoor enthusiast. Stand-up comedian. Master orator. Candy connoisseur. Imagination Mover. Book worm. Big brother. Independent thinker. Amateur fire fighter. Truck savant. Unrivaled debater. Certified goofball. Cat nemesis. Charming friend.

Apple of mama's eye? Most definitely.

Happy Birthday Me!

Love,

Weston

Au contraire

2009-08-18T14:22:00.002-05:00

At what age does one begin knowing more than one's parents? From my own experience, I think it happens around 34 months. Yes, it finally happened. I have acquired more knowledge in my nearly three-year existence than my parents' combined 71 years. Master's degrees be darned... I know everything.

This realization of my sponge-like ability to absorb knowledge is exhilarating. I wake every morning with renewed zeal to contradict what my parents say. For instance:

Mama- "You need to go potty."
Me- "No, I not need to go potty." (all the while squirming and crossing my legs)

Mama- "Those are the fire truck's lights."
Me- "Those are the sirens."
Mama- "No, those are the lights."
Me- "NO THEY NOT. Those are the sirens."

And, of course mama's personal favorite dialogue of late:

Mama- "That's the red truck."
Me- "No, it's a tow truck."
Mama- "No, it's a red truck."
Me- "No, it's a tow truck."
Mama (turning page to discover it is indeed a tow truck which happens to be red)- "Oh, it's a tow truck."

Shampoo. Rinse. Repeat.

I'm sure it is a logical fallacy to defend your argument regardless of it's accuracy. Who cares! It sure is fun to watch mama steam as she tries to contain her anger over my irritating persistence. When they got married, daddy told mama that she was always right and that he was never wrong. They never considered the unstable THIRD variable of an obstinate, strong-willed child... ME! Regardless of what mama and daddy think, I am always right... never wrong... my ideas, conclusions, and interests trump those of said parental authority!

All I can say is that, mama, you were warned long ago that payback is H3LL!

Love,

Weston

Oh Cr@p!

2009-07-09T21:20:00.003-05:00

It was weigh-in day at the Holm house (except for Mama, but that's a given. Mama insists that some things are better left unsaid). I stepped on the scale first only to find out that I am 27 pounds soaking wet. Did I happen to mention that I will be three in September? (I don't think I've mentioned that yet. I'm into all sorts of emergency vehicles, power tools, musical instruments, and books... but I digress.) Mama thinks I'm like a colt-- long and lanky.

Next comes Davis-- and that is the reason for my title. He's not even 9 months and he scares me. Drum roll please...

...

...

...

The kid weighs 18 pounds. Did I mention that I only weigh 27 pounds? For those of you who flunked math, that is a 9 pound difference. Mama always said that I'd be in the band and now my brother is going to be a linebacker. This is not fair. Now I really have to be nice to him because from what I understand, hell hath no fury like a little brother scorned. Perhaps I shall learn to outdo him with rapier wit, devilish charm, and stunning good looks. On second thought, maybe I'll just run and hide any time I hear him thundering through the house.

Seriously, what good is it being the big brother when your little brother can bench press you with his pinky finger?

*sigh*

Much love,

Weston

The Competition is on the Move...

2009-07-06T07:52:00.005-05:00

It is with sincere sadness (and yes, a little jealousy) that I report that my sole source of competition is now on the move. That other kid who lives in my house and has the audacity to share my bedroom (the parents call him Davis... I refuse to acknowledge his existence) is crawling. He's not very good at it at all, but he's on the move nonetheless. Mama and daddy seem excited, but I'm devastated. Once upon a time all of my beloved toys were safely kept out of reach of his sticky little hands. But now, he takes my toys and I'm expected to share... the horror! "Share" is just not a part of my vocabulary (but apparently "anemone" is... I managed to impress the parents with that one yesterday).

Why do babies have to grow so fast? I miss the days when Davis would just lie around and dare not infringe upon my territory. At least he's not talking yet. Mama might have to institutionalize herself if Davis is as verbose as I am.

Much love,

Weston

Holden Beach

2009-06-24T10:27:00.002-05:00

A good time was had by all... 'nuff said. (Except for the fact that I'm still working on my sand collection. I have sand WHERE???)

Love,

Weston

Packing

2009-06-07T13:58:00.002-05:00

Hi, it's Davis. I decided to log on while brother was napping.

Here I am getting ready to go see Papa. This is not how I intended to travel. I get the feeling brother had something to do with this.

Love,

Davis

Mama here...

2009-06-06T08:59:00.003-05:00

I hope that you all have figured this out by now, but I actually write Weston's blogs. I know, I know... hard to believe. I'm Weston's mama, so I think he's a smart cookie, but I must admit, he's just too active to actually sit down and type out his blog posts himself. I usually transcribe them and yes, interject a few ideas here and there.

But sometimes I have thoughts that I want to write out, and sometimes it's difficult to do through the mind of a toddler.

Today is one of those days. I'm watching the D-Day remarks right now. When I graduated from high school, I was fortunate enough to take a trip to England and France. We toured through Mont St. Michel, the Louvre, Versailles, all the London hot spots, and even Monet's home. That was fifteen years ago and many of those memories are fading. But the most poignant part of my trip, the one memory that is forever imprinted in my rapidly fading mind (thanks, kids), is walking along the beaches of Normandy.

Have you ever seen Band of Brothers or Saving Private Ryan? Then you know just how impressionable of an experience being on the beaches of Normandy can be. I have to admit that I didn't quite "get it" as an eighteen year old. But, when I witnessed my father shedding a tear while scooping up film canisters of sand from the beach, I just begin to understand the gravity of what happened that day, so many years ago (and when my dad was only two). (By the way, I've only really remember two times when my dad has cried-- other than when mom passed-- once at Normandy and once at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. Does that tell you what kind of man he is?)

It's days like today when I can't fathom how fortunate I am to be free. I have two beautiful and brilliant children (a mama can brag, right) and with each of their passing days, I appreciate my freedoms and liberties more and more each day. For I believe that those who made sacrifices that day, were thinking about their children and MY children.

I tend to get bogged down by the little things... losing pregnancy weight, taming tantrums, fixing dinner... but today it will be the big picture, and what a big picture it is.

Thanks men and women of the armed forces for what you do. Thanks dad for showing me the importance of sacrifice (see you on Monday, by the way).

Much love,

Mama

All Aboard!

2009-06-01T00:12:00.003-05:00

All aboard the potty train... choo choo! At least mama thinks this is a good idea. The truth is that I LIKE wearing diapers. In fact, I think they're quite fashionable.

Here's some math for you: stubborn toddler + delusional mama = train wreck.

I enjoyed a nice, relaxing weekend at the lake house, even though I spent the majority of my waking hours sitting on a creepy looking plastic frog potty, waiting for mama to "cheer" for the occurrence of what I typically deem "natural bodily functions." Adults are so weird.

At least I got to go swimming and go deer watching during the off time.

During the long car rides to and from the lake house, you tend to notice things.

While looking at the moon:

Me: I see the moon. Is it broken?

Mama: No, it's just a crescent moon. It's supposed to look like that.

Me: Will it be fixed?

Mama: (silence)

While looking at the clouds:

Me: The clouds are moving?

Mama: Yes, the clouds are moving.

Me: Are they going to the moon?

Mama: (silence)

Why are my questions so difficult to answer? Isn't it funny how two-year olds are often much smarter than their parents?

Love,

Weston

Words Mama must use a lot

2009-05-28T22:03:00.003-05:00

It's a good thing mama doesn't swear (at least within my range of hearing). I've really been imitating her recently. Well, her AND the Imagination Movers. Here are some words/phrases I've been using lately:

"I guess."
"Actually..."
"Just a minute."
"Oh, I'm doing nothing."
"What else?"

Today, I asked for a "bad hair day," courtesy of Scott from the Imagination Movers. Mom got out her mousse and hairspray and did my hair all Truvy from Steel Magnolias style. Davis even got his own bad hair day, but it didn't stay very long.

I'm heading off to the beach to see Papa Waller soon. I'll be gone for two whole weeks and I plan to return with a tan that rivals George Hamilton's. I can. not. wait.

(Mama, who ARE these people you keep making me reference.)

Peace out,
Weston

Daddy smart... Mama, not so much

2009-05-05T22:05:00.002-05:00

Mama took Davis and me to Central Market today while the piano tuner was at the house. Davis spilled tortilla soup all over mama (but that's another story).

I got my green balloon from Central Market and when we got home, mama decided to tie it to a cow bell toy, so it wouldn't blow away. I've been walking around the house jangling the cow bell all day. I'm sure mama doesn't have the heart to take it away from because she knows I'll scream if she does. Why on earth would mama tie my balloon to the noisiest toy in the house... she's not so smart.

Here's hoping I get daddy's brains...

Love,

Weston

PS- Mema, if you read this, I promise the balloon will be totally deflated by the time you visit... no popping!

Dad's Blog

2009-05-04T21:09:00.002-05:00

Check it out. Book reviews. Yeah, he's smart. ;)

http://jkholm.blogspot.com/

Love,

Weston

Davis here...

2009-05-03T21:39:00.003-05:00

Hi all! It's Davis. I thought I would take the blog for a while and let you know how I was doing. First, I must get something off my chest. I find it totally unfair that Weston has his own blog, his own baby book, AND his own clothes. I have to wear his hand-me-downs... so wrong. But, that kid is hi-lar-i-ous! He is always making me laugh.

Back to me. I am FINALLY rolling front to back. I'm also sitting independently, except for when brother comes and pushes me over. Ouch. I have two teeth and two more on the way. I am now eating solid foods and enjoy peas, squash, and sweet potatoes. I've tried apples once. Mom is trying me on all the veggies first, so I won't develop a sweet tooth. Good luck with that, mom. We share DNA... I'll have a sweet tooth.

Love ,

Davis

Rise and Shine!

2009-05-02T07:23:00.002-05:00

Davis and I did it... again! We planned and schemed, schemed and planned. Davis decided to go for the 4:00 am wake-up and I went for the 6:00 am wake-up. Mission accomplished! Now I'm getting 3 straight hours of television, while mama drowns her sorrows in a bottomless cup of coffee.

I'm looking forward to the Cottonwood Arts Festival today. Kettle corn, here I come!

Catch you later,

Weston

Has it really been five months?

2009-05-01T18:03:00.004-05:00

I can't believe it's been 5 months since I last updated my blog. Daddy decided to take Brother and me out in the stroller to go see the new fire station, and since mama is my secretary, it gave her a few minutes to update my fans.

This has been a busy week. Spring is here and mama is restless, so we've been hitting the town. We've been to the Children's Museum, the zoo, and to the fire station open house this week. Yeah, yeah, we made several trips to Target, but that's all in a days work.

I got to see a pig at the zoo today. He was neither sniffling nor sneezing, so I assume he was not sick with the Swine Flu. Oh, excuse me, I mean H1N1 Flu. Apparently pigs around the world are offended by the term "Swine Flu." Other than a very sad looking piggy, I got to see monkeys, giraffes, rhinoceri (is that the plural form of rhinoceros?), butterflies, crocodiles... you name it, I saw it.

However, the highlight of the week was the fire station open house. The new fire station is finally complete, and GUESS WHAT? They opened it up for the whole neighborhood to see. I got to sit in a REAL FIRE ENGINE. Dad wanted to climb on top of it, but was afraid he would cause a commotion. The new fire engine is the coolest thing ever! I'm hoping they have another open house very soon.

Brother is still visiting. I'm not sure when he is going to leave. I mean, he's cute and all, but since he's arrived, there's less room on mama's lap and less attention overall. So, to ensure that I get adequate "mama time," I've decided to forgo my afternoon nap. Sure, I get a little cranky in the afternoon, but that means more quality time with mama, and that's a good thing, right?

I guess the worst thing about having Brother around is that he is now sharing my room. This transition has been REAL fun for mama and daddy. What they don't realize is that we take turns waking up at night. Mama and daddy aren't getting any sleep. It's all in good fun!

Enjoy the update! Much love,

Weston

Ahhh, the holidays!

2008-12-09T19:43:00.002-06:00

The holiday season is upon us! You know, the time for rampant consumerism, way too many photo shoots with dorky matching pj's, and wildly varying temperatures (at least here in Texas). Christmas is almost here and Thanksgiving just flew right on by. We had a great time for Thanksgiving. Mama was a little worried, though. This was the first Thanksgiving ever that she did not spend in North Carolina. She told Papa that she refused to fly with a toddler and a newborn. Who is she kidding? I would have behaved perfectly on the airplane. I LOVE sitting still for three hours straight in a confined space with limited snack opportunities.

Anyway, we stayed in Texas this year and had quite the Thanksgiving adventure in East Texas. Mom's friends Mr. Matt and Mrs. Janie invited us over to their ranch. I got the opportunity to sit on a horse, eat pie for breakfast, and charm the socks off of 40-some people. It was a delightful Thanksgiving. We even got to stay at the lake house and see plenty of deer.

Mama has been telling me all about Santa. I cannot wait to tell him what I want for Christmas. When mama asks me what I want from Santa I always say "a pumpkin" first, followed by a helicopter. What else would make my life complete besides a pumpkin and a helicopter? A puppy, perhaps? Yes, I even mentioned that the other day. Just what mama needs, two babies, two crazy cats, one husband, and a puppy... that'll do her in!

Merry Christmas everyone!

Love,

Weston

Chchchchanges....

2008-11-18T13:56:00.003-06:00

Just in case you were wondering, my life has changed quite a bit over the last month. It may surprise you to hear that there is another person living in our house. This person is very tiny, but very loud and has been known to steal much of mama's attention away from me... quelle horreur! This creature has ruined all of my fun. I haven't been to Stroller Strides in a while, I don't go to the park quite as often, we're constantly buying more coffee beans, and I'm constantly being told to "be quiet." "Quiet-" I still have to look that word up.

Despite this creature invading my territory, some things have become more fun. Because mama has trouble getting out of bed in the mornings, I've become a huge fan of this wonderous invention called "tv." Some of my favorite shows are Little Einsteins, Imagination Movers, and Thomas and Friends. Much to my daddy's chagrin, I could spend all morning watching these shows. (Mama's too lazy to care. In fact, I think she's a big fan of the Imagination Movers, herself).

My baby brother (there, I said it) may be cute and all, but I still think I'm mama's favorite. She always laughing at the funny things I say and do. I'm learning to say "yes ma'am" instead of "yeah," insist on going in the blue door instead of the green door at Target, and have been known to apologize to inanimate objects. Mama doesn't know whether to enjoy my antics or give me away to some poor, unsuspecting stranger in the grocery store who thinks I'm "charming."

I'm sure I'll get used to my baby brother in a few years... I guess mama has enough love in her heart for two boys (three if you count daddy). Until then, I'll do my best to stay in the spotlight. I think temper tantrums do the trick.

Love,

Weston

Water, water everywhere!

2008-06-12T20:12:00.004-05:00

Did y'all know that Texas is HAWT! Good grief. It's only June and we've hit the high 90s quite a few times already. Heck, I don't even think it's officially summer yet. Mom refuses to put the cool and refreshing nectar of the gods (aka sweet tea) in my sippy cup, so I've had to find alternate ways to cool off. My new discovery is WATER! I love it, I love it, I love it!

Now you all know that I love being outside. But being that my mother is baking me a little brother, she's a little resistant to being outside all the time, which means she has resorted to taking me to the area pools and spray parks. And when she's just too darn lazy to go anywhere, she's just squirts me down with the water hose. She even bought me my very own pool the other day. Nothing says Texas summer like your very own plastic kiddie pool in the back yard. Mom's only lived in Texas for eight years, but she's already a big ol' redneck! You should have seen her yesterday sitting in that pool. What a goof ball (but I still love her)!

She even ran out of swim diapers for me, so I had to wear a regular diaper. Did you know those things hold about 10 pounds of water? Since my diaper was so full of water, I had trouble walking, so mom just stripped me down! Okay ladies, I still had my swim suit on, but does it get any more redneck that a little boy swimming mostly "nekkid" in the kiddie pool in the back yard? Next thing ya know, dad's going to have a rusty car on cinder blocks sitting in the front yard.

Ah, summer fun! Please pray that mom makes it through the hot summer pregnant. Did y'all know that babies live in your mama's belly? Adults are so weird.

I can't wait to keep you posted in all my adventures!

Love, Weston

Writer's Block!

2008-06-12T20:08:00.002-05:00

My official excuse for not updating my blog more regularly is... writer's block. I just can't seem to effectively put my thoughts into words like I used to. Okay, maybe that's not the truth. Perhaps it is that I don't have the time anymore. I'm too busy reading and watching what the Tivo's recorded like Top Chef and Lost. But now that all of my shows (ahem, mom's shows) have ended for the season, I'll spend more time on the blog. I promise!

The Drama is Over!

2008-02-06T21:17:00.000-06:00

I'm finally feeling better! I just got over a bout with the "somesorta" virus again. Mom and I were cooped up in the house together for several days... I felt terrible and it was too cold to go outside. I never want to be sick again. All I felt like doing was curling up in mom's lap and reading books. I think mom read me every book in the house (except for D.H. Lawrence's Lady Chatterly's Lover, which mom says is a bit out of my league).

Now I'm running around again and I certainly don't have the time to sit in mom's lap anymore. I think she was getting pretty bored with reading Good Night Gorrilla, Knuffle Bunny, and Doggies over and over and over and over again, anyway... I digress.

Love,

Weston (propping my feet up on the table, just like dad) ;)
www.discoverytoyslink.com/learn_4_fun

P.S. The Carolina-Duke game is on right now and mom is not watching. She says she's way too nervous to actually watch. How weird is that? I can't believe she claims to be a real Tarheel fan , but is too scared to watch the game. Oh, wait-- Carolina's down in the second half--shield your eyes mom!!!

Discovery Toys

2008-01-26T11:47:00.000-06:00

Hi Everyone! I'm sorry I haven't updated you on my goings-on recently. Everything is going well. I'm learning lots of new words and even spoke my first real sentence the other day... "I want out!" At least that's what mom thinks she heard.

I wanted to share some exciting news! Mom has started selling Discovery Toys, and boy am I excited about her new venture. More toys for me! She loves them and I love them, too.

Here is the link to her website if you are interested in a gift for your kids, grandkids, friends' kids, or for the kid at heart!

http://www.discoverytoyslink.com/learn_4_fun

Thanks for looking!

Love,

Weston

Not expecting a lump of coal!

2007-12-20T19:34:00.000-06:00

Guess who I visited today in between screaming fits at the mall? SANTA CLAUS!!! Despite my cranky behavior this morning, Santa told me I had been a very good boy this year and that I would get everything I asked for. My list is pretty small this year. Last week, when my babysitter asked me what I wanted from Santa, I could only think of one thing... juice. I think Santa is relieved that my desires are few and my vocabulary is limited. Shoes, juice, cheese, socks... all easy orders to fulfill.
Merry Christmas, y'all!
Love,
Weston

Giving Thanks

2007-11-18T21:26:00.000-06:00

On Thursday, I will finally be able to enjoy my first REAL Thanksgiving feast. Since last Thanksgiving, I have acquired 14 new teeth, two of which are my newly developed canines, or turkey flesh rippers as I call them. Mom thinks that's a bit much, but that's what your canines are for, right? I'm so thankful for my beautiful pearly whites and for the delectable food they allow me to enjoy.

I am also thankful for so many other things. Here's my top ten:

Outside- quite possibly my favorite place to be. First thing in the morning and even late at night, I'm asking mom if I can go "outside." She rarely obliges when it's dark outside, but during the day, I love to enjoy God's creation. This leads me to number two...

Sticks- a.k.a. "free toys." Mom rarely buys me new toys, so I have to find my own... sticks are fairly good substitutes.

Grandparents- need I say more?

Macaroni and cheese- or any cheese product for that matter; I don't discriminate.

Shoes- I love shoes... my shoes, mom's shoes, dad's shoes... it doesn't matter... I just love 'em!

Ms. Eva and my dare care buddies- my home away from home... a place where my angelic alter-ego takes over. Whenever I'm with mom, the devil in me comes out.

My furry friends Mr. Bear, Mr. Moose, Miss Kitty, and Simba- I didn't name them. The "Creative Genius," a.k.a. "Mom" came up with those descriptive titles.

Running!- the faster I get, the slower and older mom and dad get. It just proves that God really does have a sense of humor.

Maya- unrequited love... I will never understand why cats don't return the love of toddlers. And finally,

Loving parents- I guess the world really is a better place with me in it.

As you celebrate this Thanksgiving, please remember to count your blessings and thank God for all the wonderful things he has given you (especially your teeth, now go eat some turkey)!

Love,

Weston

A Tribute to Nana

2007-11-10T20:56:00.000-06:00

It is with great sadness that I write this post. As you may know, my beloved Nana went to her new heavenly home on October 25, 2007.

Nana was with me from the beginning. I remember looking into her beautiful eyes almost immediately after I was born. She would look at me with such love... like I had given her a reason to live! I really got to know Nana those first few weeks of my life. She would change my diapers, fix my bottles, wash my clothes, and wake up at 2 am to soothe my crying. Now we all know, THAT'S true love!

My first trip to Nana's house was during Thanksgiving of last year. My first plane ride was uneventful, but when I arrived at Nana's house, my life seemed complete. She had set up a nursery for me, decked out with my own crib, duck mobile, toys, blankets, burp clothes, tons of clothes, and my own rocking chair! Mom and dad haven't even bought me a rocking chair, yet. The smells of Thanksgiving dinner tantalized my senses. Even though I enjoyed my bottles, it was a little disappointing that I hadn't started eating solid foods yet. Some of Nana's turkey and dressing would have really hit the spot.

It was hard leaving after Thanksgiving, but Christmas came quickly and I was back in the arms of my Nana once again. When mom suggested that I go to the nursery during the church service, Nana insisted that she hold me instead. If I got fussy, Nana took me outside and made me feel better. She shared all of her secrets with me and even told me some funny stories about mom.

Nana made a few visits to Texas the next year, but my favorite times with Nana were when I visited her house. Nana's house was my home away from home and in many ways it was better than home! By my visit in June, I had "matured" quite a bit. We went shopping, played together and ate lots of fun things. I remember going out and buying my very first pair of "real" shoes. That was a fun experience. Nana even gave me my first taste of sweet tea... the nectar of the gods! If it were up to mom, I wouldn't have tried anything like that until I was at least 20.

As diffiult as it is to admit, my last and best memory of Nana was on my birthday. Although she was in the hospital and feeling kind of yucky, she made my day special. I'll always remember sharing my birthday cake with her... Nana helped me eat it right off of my high chair tray.

While it seems unfair that I only knew my Nana for one short year, I know that it was a miracle that I even got to see her. And even though we didn't spend much time together, I already know that I'm a lot like her. I've got a vibrant personality oozing out of my every pore... that was my Nana.

Thank you, Nana, for loving me and for loving my mom. I know that I've made it this far only because you showed her what it's like to be a good mother. I look forward to seeing you one day soon.

Love,

Weston

-"Grandmas hold our tiny hands for just a little while, but our hearts forever." ~Author Unknown

First Haircut!

2007-10-08T13:35:00.000-05:00

I got my very first haircut on Saturday. Yes, I realize there wasn't much to work with in the first place, but what little hair I do have was sticking out all over the place. I was a perfect angel... I think the lollipop helped!

I've also learned to say "no," and use it in it's correct context, too. Example dialogue:

Mom: Weston, don't touch the coffee pot... it's hot!

Me: No, no, no!

Mom: Weston, don't pull out all of your daddy's cd's!

Me: No, no, no!

I've found it's much better if I say it with the cutest voice I possibly can. Whenever I say "no," mom always turns her back to me. I thinks she's trying not to laugh. Mom, don't you know this only eggs me on?

Love,

Weston

P.S. Enjoy the picture of mom and me sporting our new hair-dos!

My life... the tragedy

2007-09-22T15:11:00.000-05:00

I've never gone through such a dark period in my life before. The past week has been absolutely dismal. I'm not sure if I can go on much longer. If you know me then you understand that for me, the bottle is usually half-full. Wait a minute... did I say "bottle?" I meant "sippy cup," and if the sippy cup and it's fullness is a metaphor for my wretched life... it is DEFINITELY half-empty.
You see, my mother, took my bottle away. My comforter, friend, confidant, and most important source of nourishment- certainly not mother, but the bottle... has been stolen from me. I'm not sure how much longer I can boycott the sippy cup (at least a little bit longer than the GM workers, I would hope). ***sigh*** What's a bottle-deprived boy to do? Other than scream and kick my legs when I see a sippy cup, that is.
On a more positive note, the past few weeks have been fairly good! I got to see my grandpa from Nevada. I flew to NC to see Nana and Papa for my birthday. And, most importantly, I turned ONE!!! It's nice to be quantified by a real number. It got really old being identified as x months. I've heard that one is the loneliest number... not true... it's the greatest number. Only twenty more years and I can drink whatever I want from whatever I want! I think I'll pick up the bottle again... but not in a bad way!

Have a great weekend, y'all!

Love,
Weston <3

1st Birthday!

2007-09-13T21:30:00.001-05:00

Labor Day Weekend

2007-09-03T20:46:00.001-05:00

Press play to enjoy some pictures from my Labor Day weekend getaway!

New toy!

2007-08-31T15:05:00.000-05:00

I have a new toy... actually, it's an old toy, but it's new to me! Mom calls it an office chair. I've never seen one at Babies R Us, so we must be on the cutting edge of baby toys if they're not sold at the toy stores yet.

We're heading out of town for the Labor Day weekend. I need a little peace and quiet... some rest and relaxation! Just kidding... I'm always ready to go, go, go! I hope I get to see some deer this weekend.

The Sunday after next, we are heading to the beach! I can't wait to feel the sand between my toes. Just as long as I don't get any sand in my swim suit... yuck! Maybe I'll catch some fish.

Have a great Labor Day weekend!

Love,

Weston

Just like dad

2007-08-26T13:39:00.001-05:00

Don't I look like my dad, here? One day, I hope I can play the piano as well as he does. I mean, right now I've only perfected Chopsticks, but I hope to master Shostakovich and Mozart by next week.

By my hand positioning, it looks as if I may have mastered the theme from Jaws, as well. :)

I hope everyone had a great weekend! I did, but I'm glad it's over. Mom and dad threw a big bash Friday evening and mom enlisted my help in cleaning the house and cooking dinner. Just kidding... I didn't help at all. In fact, I decided to forego my morning nap just to make things more difficult for mom. Isn't that what we're supposed to do?

Just in case you're wondering, it's only 17 more days until I'm ONE!!! I'm sure it's on everyone's calendars, but a little reminder always helps.

Love,
Weston

Monkey see, monkey do...

2007-08-26T13:35:00.000-05:00

Separated at birth?

Bad hair day!

2007-08-18T15:45:00.000-05:00

This is what my hair looked like when I woke up from my nap yesterday...

I'm channeling my "inner Billy Idol."

The NERVE!

2007-08-16T21:08:00.000-05:00

Oh, the nerve of my parents! They went out to dinner tonight for their anniversary AND THEY DIDN'T TAKE ME!!! How dare they! I love going to restaurants (except for the one where I bonked my head). Mom always gives me a straw to play with and I get to eat off her plate... restaurants are fun!

I heard them bragging about what they ate. Mom had red snapper and lobster risotto. Dad enjoyed his pork tenderloin and perfectly whipped potatoes. I would have eaten those things! Mom told me that she didn't see a single high chair in the fancy establishment and that it would have been tacky to take me since I usually leave quite a bit of evidence of my presence (e.g. Cheerios under the table).

I had to stay at home and eat goldfish and some Gerber ravioli. I didn't even get dessert like mom and dad did... Grand Marnier creme brulee and chocolate cake. What's an anniversary anyway if you can't celebrate it with everyone? See if I invite them out for my anniversary!

I do have a little way of getting back at them, though. Mom has been trying to get me to clap for them for months now... nothing! I refuse to clap back. Well, yesterday, Eva let out a little secret that I had been clapping with my friends during music time at day care. Darn it! Now she's going to expect me to clap for her... oh, well. You can't keep secrets forever.

I hope everyone has a great Friday!

Love,

Weston

Guess what tomorrow is!!!

2007-08-11T11:15:00.000-05:00

Tomorrow is my 11 month birthday! That means only one more month until my first birthday. It's hard to believe I've been alive for SOOO long. It just seems like yesterday that I first held my head up, rolled over, sat up independently, crawled, and took my first steps. If you think about it, we learn so many things in such a short amount of time.

I'm sure mom wishes she could learn things as aggressively as I do now. Heck, she can't remember what she had for breakfast (you had cereal, mom). I hope she's enjoying this time in my life where I am learning something new every day. I think she is... she doesn't know this, but, I know that she comes into my room at night and stares at me. It's kind of creepy, but I know she's just trying to absorb every precious second of my young life.

Well, the countdown is on for my birthday!!! I asked mom if we could register at Babies R Us, but she thought it might be a bit tacky. Plus, you can't register for a puppy at Babies R Us, anyway, so what's the point.
Have a great weekend everyone! Leave a comment... I love to read them!

Love,

Weston

Tough weekend!

2007-08-05T22:28:00.000-05:00

This weekend was pretty brutal. It all started with our semiweekly trip to Target. Mom had the keen idea to go into PetSmart before heading to Target so I could look at the dogs and cats up for adoption. I thought this was a great idea, especially since mom has yet to get me the puppy she promised me WEEKS ago. Apparently, all of the dogs had already been adopted or either they had left for the day because there were no puppies at the store. Thanks a lot for getting my hopes up... I guess I'll just have to live with Maya the cat a little while longer. I don't understand what her problem with me is. She's so aloof and every time I try and pet her, she runs away. Mom tells me that petting and pulling fur are totally different and that Maya gets a little annoyed when I pull her fur. Whatever, mom! I need a puppy... I'm a puppy person... friendly, happy, and loyal.

After that, I was really looking forward to going to Target. It always seems like mom always goes through the toy ailse at Target... they have some great stuff, none of which mom ever buys for me. It's like a big tease every time we go. All I got to play with when I got home was a plastic shopping bag and a bag of paper napkins. Whoopee! Why did I get a cheapskate for a mom?

The weekend didn't get much better after that. After church, mom and dad went to lunch with some friends. Usually going to a restarant means that I get strapped into an uncomfortable wooden chair. It also means that I don't get to play with any of the fun toys just begging to be held (i.e. salt shakers, knives, forks, etc.). Mom thinks I'll poke my eye out. After about an hour of listening to mom, dad, and their friends drone on and on and on, I decided to throw a bit of a fit... works like a charm. Mom took me out of the torture chamber and held me for a while. What she doesn't realize is that I WANT DOWN!!! I tried to wiggle out of her arms and proceeded to bang my head on the table. It hurt! I even forgot to breathe for a while before I started screaming. Now I have a bruise on my forehead. At least the ladies like battle scars, from what I understand.

Being a baby is hard! Don't let anyone tell you otherwise.

Love,

Weston

It's Friday!

2007-08-03T22:22:00.000-05:00

Woo hoo! Wait a minute... practically every day is Friday for me! Today was pretty uneventful. Mom took me to Stroller Strides and boy was it hot outside! Thank goodness mom does most of the work. After class I got to go to the park. I must have been hungry because I decided to find myself a snack. Mom had some Goldfish for me, but I was tired of Goldfish. Luckily, there was plenty of tasty looking stuff on the ground. I shoved several handfuls into my mouth and proceeded to chew on this tasty new treat. Then, mom freaked out and explained that the "mulch" I was eating was unfit for my delicate digestive system. It just goes to show that just because something tastes good, it does not mean that it is good for you. I guess no more mulch for me... I don't want to see mom freak out any time soon.

I've posted a picture of dad and me reading a book. I love to read! I can even turn pages on command.

Have a great weekend!

Love,

Weston

I have a new word!

2007-07-30T11:01:00.000-05:00

"GO!" I have to say, this one really comes in handy. When mom is taking her sweet time at Target, I can yell "go, go, go" to get her to hurry up. When she's in the back of the line at Stroller Strides... "go, go, go." When she's going way to slow in the fast lane... "go, go, go!" Mom thinks I sound pretty bossy when I'm yelling "go" at the top of my lungs. She's really hoping my next word is "please."

I'm posting some pictures of myself at the Splash Park. I LOVE the water. Dad was sad because he thinks I look like a big boy and I'm not his little baby anymore. I'm almost ONE for goodness sake, what does he expect? I can't wait to be one.

Love,

Weston

Just a quick update...

2007-07-26T20:56:00.000-05:00

Mom took me to the park today! She also got me something to chew on to alleviate my pain from teething... she calls them shoes. I don't understand why they have teethers that you strap onto your feet, but hey, whatever works. I had a blast at the park. I tried to eat some rocks, but mom wouldn't allow that. I never get to do anything...

Love,

Weston

I'm getting a puppy!

2007-07-25T16:20:00.000-05:00

As most of you know, dad was a stay-at-home dad yesterday. Mom promised me that I could have a PUPPY if I behaved for dad. That's like asking a dog to bark, or a pig to oink, or Nana to "even out the brownies." Behaving like a little angel is my specialty, so of course I was good for dad. Mom hasn't mentioned the puppy again, but I can't wait to go to PetSmart this weekend.

Mom let me wear my swim suit to Stroller Strides today. I thought it was kind of odd, until I realized that she was going to let me go in the splash park after class. Boy, was it fun! Nana's upset that mom didn't take pictures (I can't say that I blame her). I think this means that I'll get to go to the splash park again on Friday. Mom promises to post pictures of me in my swim suit on Friday- you'll all be blown away by my buff physique. Today's picture is just a preview!

Mom also took me to Babies R Us today. If you haven't been, this place is a must-see! You cannot possibly imagine the fun things that can be found there. Mom didn't tell me this, but I have a suspicion that she was looking for my birthday present. Can you believe that we left that toy wonderland with just a bottle brush and a snack holder? No toys? Mom says she has no idea what to get me for my birthday. Is she losing her mind already? I saw plenty of things I would love to have. I think a "grandparent intervention" may be necessary...

Love,

Weston

Teething bites!

2007-07-23T20:50:00.000-05:00

Mom got me some teething biscuits today. As the attached picture shows, teething biscuits are detrimental to my cuteness... but they sure do make my teeth feel better. The gunk hanging from my chin is squash. Needless to say, I went right from the high chair to the bath tub tonight!

Now you may want to sit down before I tell you this... I have some shocking news! Mom took me to Wal-Mart today! Oh, the horror! I guess she noticed my complaint about Target in a previous blog entry and decided a change of scenery would be good for me. I think I like Target better and I'm sure I'll be back there in a few days or so.

More shocking news... Mr. Mom, aka, Dad, will be taking care of me tomorrow so mom can go to work. Mom knows just enough to curb my trickery, so it'll be nice to have such a naive subject to tease and torment. I'm sure tomorrow's blog entry will detail all the wacky hijinx!

Love,

Weston

No turning back

2007-07-22T21:19:00.000-05:00

I think I've discovered that I like walking much more than crawling. Yes, crawling makes getting from here to there much easier, but no one claps and yells when I crawl. For some reason, when I take a couple dozen steps or so, mom and dad clap and yell "Yea, Weston." I never got that with crawling, so I've decided that walking is my preferred mode of transportation. Of course, if I need to quickly escape them, I will swiftly go to all fours; but if I need my ego inflated... walk! Now if I could just convince them to get me a bike.

My teeth hurt today. Mom says I'm incredibly cranky because I'm getting my molars in. Ouchy, ouch, ouch. Mom has no sympathy for me. I think I'm going to call Nana and ask her what mom was like when she was cutting her molars. I bet she was a crank, too! She's still a crank, sometimes, if you ask me. She must be getting some new teeth in.

Thanks everyone for reading my blog. Papa- please tell Nana that I love her and I hope she gets well soon so we can share some ice cream!

Love,

Weston

I'm officially walking!

2007-07-21T20:39:00.000-05:00

Just wanted to share the good news! I'm still a little wobbly, like a newborn foal, but I'm walking! I guess running is next! Yippee!

That's my only news for today!

Love,

Weston

I love Fridays

2007-07-20T21:15:00.000-05:00

Today was a good day. I got to go to Stroller Strides this morning and see my new friend. I think I'm in love! There's a new girl in the class and I really enjoy my time with her. She's a bit older, though... thirteen months and I'm only ten months, but I don't care.

Mom thinks I'm in love with her because we're always talking to each other and exchanging goofy smiles during class. Plus, today I started babbling like she does. I must have her on my mind.

Today was also "Take Your Baby to Work Day." At least I'm assuming that's what it was because mom hauled me to her work today for an hour or so. She had a meeting and she got the go-ahead to bring me along. I didn't see ANY OTHER BABIES, so I made sure to show my sincere displeasure. Every time mom put me in the pack-n-play, I screamed and cried. I was even more wiggly than usual, too. Did the other mom's not get the memo?

After work, mom took me shopping at Target... again. I've been alive for a total of 312 days now, and I think I've been to Target at least 311 times!!! At least it was a different Target this time. I keep hoping that mom will forget to buckle me into the cart- doesn't she know that shopping is no fun when you have to stare at your mother the entire time. Note to self... when you are old enough to invent something, invent a shopping cart that allows the baby to face the opposite direction... you get to see much more that way!

I hope everyone has a great weekend. I know I will... unless I have to go to Target again... sheesh.

Love,

Weston

Bleh!

2007-07-19T18:40:00.000-05:00

Well, I got some not-so-good news today. Papa said that Nana was not going to be able to make her trip to TX to see me. Needless to say, I'm disappointed, so mom said she'd UPS me to NC for the week. I'm almost inclined to believe her, so keep a watch for the "man in brown." I miss you, Nana!

On a positive note- and momma's insisting that we stay positive- I got to eat some more mac-n-cheese this evening. I think I'm in love. It has my favorite ingredient... cheese, and it's just divine. I've attached a picture of me enjoying my new favorite meal. Mom's going to post a link to the recipe to share with everyone!

I also got to participate in Splash Day at Eva's. I just love the water and pretty soon I'll be perfecting my breast stroke.

Thanks to everyone for reading my blog. Mom says it's "cathartic." I have no idea what that means...

Love,

Weston

Say Cheese!

2007-07-18T21:58:00.000-05:00

This is my first blog entry. My mom is pretty lame when it comes to writing things down and since I'm growing and changing everyday, I thought it would be nice to start my own blog... at least for her sake.

Today was pretty uneventful. I went to Stroller Strides this morning and to Eva's this afternoon. I've been taking a couple of steps here and there, so everyone's convinced that I'll be moving on to full-blown walking pretty soon. Really? Actually, I'm still partial to crawling and having my mom lug me around everywhere. Who needs to expend so much energy walking, when you can have someone CARRY you. It's much better than doing it yourself.

Everyone gets a kick out of hearing me say "cheese." I like the word, myself, but I wish mom and dad would QUIT SAYING "CHEESE" all the time just to get me to mimic them. Don't they know I have other words I enjoy saying, like "Hi Maya" and, well... that's about it. If I hear them say "cheese" one more time, they're getting some projectile cheese all over their fancy digs.

I did enjoy a sample of mom's homemade mac-n-cheese this evening, though. I can't wait to try more of mom's gourmet creations when I get a little older. Dad sure is lucky to have such a good cook in the house.

Thanks for reading my new blog. Stay tuned for more!

Love,

Weston