Jack's Windows to the World

This morning Jack went to his first Optometrist Appointment. I found out about a program called InfantSEE which is a no-cost public health program developed to provide professional eye care for infants. It is a one-time, comprehensive eye assessment for infants between 6-12 months old that could detect potential eye and vision problems. He was checked at birth, but the next time unless problems arose when he would be checked again would be in First Grade.

The website is www.infantsee.org

We picked from a few local optometrist (OK...I checked websites, reviews, etc. to try to find the one that looked the best...you know I don't just randomly pick anything) and we were very please with this doctor. His name was Dr. Brantley in Plano and he was great with Jack and at explaining things to me throughout the whole exam. Jack had to look in lights, follow lights, watch rattles and he would bring a stuffed animal from around the corner to see if Jack saw it in his perifial vision. Very interesting and of course...Jack did great! His eyes are looking fine and Dr. Brantley recommends we check back around Kindergarten to make sure things are still good so that he doesn't go a full school year with problems before he is checked again in First Grade. I highly recommend everyone take advantage of this FREE program.

Doesn't Jack look so excited about the visit?!? It was the middle of his naptime and you can't tell by this face...but he had fun at the appointment...I promise.

Here is a picture that I took the other day when we had winds up to 60 miles per hour. It was out of control and we even lost power from it. There was a whistle from the wind in the entry way so Jack for about 30 minutes talked back to the wind and watch the leaves blow around the yard. Cheap fun. Luckily we didn't have to use the emergency bag and pillows that I had stored in the middle bathroom...Just in case :)

We leave tomorrow for New Orleans where we will finally get to meet Gabriella and Nick and I (Thanks to Uncle Brian) will get to experience our first Mardi Gras Ball. Here's hoping Jack is as good on this flight as he was the last time we flew....fingers crossed!!

Baby Got BACK!!

After baths getting Jack geared up for bed is quite a task. We used to fight it...but now we go with it and have fun. Jack absolutely loves to be naked! He flips over, crawls to the door, and bangs and talks away while Nick rubs him down with lotion and diaper cream...then the "fun" begins when he has to lay back down to get on his diaper and pj's. At least now he is kinda worn out since we let him play around awhile. No peeing yet on the carpet...but I am sure it will happen one day.

So sorry for my loud, annoying voice. We try to talk to him all the time and the more excited you are, the more excited he gets. It's just unfortunate for you that the microphone was right up to my mouth. Sorry!

Here he is after a mild wrestling match to get dressed...aren't his PJ's from Aunt Besty too cute?!?

Now he continues to entertain himself while I fix his night bottle then off to bed he goes.

Yes Grandpa Paul...we are going to clean off that ledge so he doesn't get into that glass!

Saturday Fun

Jennifer Collette (Anderson) was in town for the first time since we saw her at her wedding over the Summer because her Mom had emergency stomach surgery last week. We wish she was in town for happier reasons....but took advantage and met at The Atlanta Bread Company for breakfast on Saturday. It was a nice visit.

Jack and Nathan had breakfast and then talked and played with each other in their high chairs. Once the talking got "louder" we decided it was time to head back home for a nap and let the people at the restaurant enjoy their meals in peace.

After his nap Jack, Nick, and I read a book or two and then worked with his tactile flashcards. He absolutely loves feeling things whether it be touch and feel books, his flashcards, or scratching his nails on the wall.

Along with feeling things...he loves to taste everything as well. Sorry the picture isn't turned...I'm being lazy.

Ashley and Nathan were out our way and even though the boys got to play that morning, we figured it would be fun to get them together again without being strapped in a high chair. Nathan loved eating all of Jack's toys which he shared so nicely and Jack loved crawling up on Ashley and even snuggled with her (jealous here because I'm still working on him snuggling with Nick and I).

They played up a hunger so after a little bottle break Ashley and Nathan headed out. Can't wait to get together with them again because now that Nathan is more stable and Jack is more social...their playdates are a lot more fun.

The rest of the weekend was nice- playing as a family, eating as a family, walks around the neighborhood together...Jack and I love the weekends when Nick is at home.

Papa C's Visit with Jack (oh and us too I guess)

Check back in the archives under January 2008 for Jack's Side of the Story. I had to get pictures from our weekend away with Jack and the Grandparents in order to do the post.

Papa C was "in town" for a Conference this week so instead of flying back on Thursday, Jack and I drove to Lewisville to pick him up to spend the rest of the day and Friday with us.

"I know you are happy to see me Papa C. I'm happy to see you too. Now loosen that hold a little and put some clothes on me...there is a Wintery Mix on the way tonight."

"Forget clothes...this is daring and FUN!"

"Yummy, give me some more of that cat food...I mean beef in beef gravy. At least I know you won't eat it all like my Puffs."

"Rub a Dub Dub- Jack and Papa C in the tub."

"I sure am glad you were able to visit Papa C...when I wake will you still be here or is this just a fantastic dream?"

"It wasn't a dream Mom...it's morning and he's still here."

"Come closer Papa C...let me feel you and make sure this is for real."

"This is my nap time Papa C, my tummy is a bit upset from those meds, and I'm worn out. Had fun though playing with you and Gymbo."

"I don't get it...aren't those for Mommies that make milk for their babies? Are you a Mommy? Do you make milk? If so...that stuff is sweet...can I have some?"

Explanation: Betsy was having pump issues so Dad was testing the suction on mine, so that he could compare it to the suction on her pump, to determine if she needs to get a new one. Had to take the picture because, well, it is hilarious! What a Grandfather will do for his Grandchildren.

"Saying good-bye is always hard to do. Don't worry Papa C...I'll see you next week when we come in for the Bacchus Ball. I love you!"

Here are two videos I took at Gymboree. When we got there I look over and see Dad giving some lady a high five. Apparently she remembered him from a Saturday Class that Nick and Dad took Jack to and was celebrating Tigers win. Then shortly after class started Jack's teacher, Linda, who we haven't seen in awhile said how glad she was to see Jack again and how happy she was that JACK'S DAD could join us for class....after clarifying that Dad was my Dad for the rest of the class the other Mom kept commenting how impressed they were that he was participating so eagerly and actively...I secretly whispered that he'd be hurting later :) It was fun and I'm glad that they let us come to a class we weren't enrolled in because with the weather we had to do something indoors.

Jack and Papa C playing peek a boo with our fellow LSU fans from Pineville.

Jack and Papa C doing shine flights...Don't worry when Jack flipped off Dad's legs onto his stomach head first...he was ALRIGHT!!!

A Moment Teacher Mommy has been waiting for...

The other day Jack did something I have been longing for since he was born...he pushed a book across the living room floor, sat in my lap, layed his head on my shoulder, and helped me turn the pages as we read an entire book. We read books everyday but his attention span is usually pretty short and we rarely make it through a book, or if we do he is crawling and moving around while he listens....this was the two of us enjoying the love of reading together....WONDERFUL!

Peek-A-Boo

Yesterday Jack was too cute playing peek a boo with his bib that I couldn't be upset that he was refusing to eat. Before I grabbed the camera every time he would uncover his face he had just the biggest smile and giggle.

Since he was still not really eating, was fussy, and waking up every hour or so during the night we went to Dr. Mathieu's this morning. He said that Jack's ears were clearing up and to continue to antibiotics til Saturday. I was glad to hear that the medicine was working and that Jack was on the way back to his old self. He also raved about the list of doctor's at the After Hours Clinic which is great to know in case we have to use them in the future we know that particular clinic has reputable pediatricians on staff.

Jack's Way of Keeping Us Home...

Last night after the Relle's left Jack just wasn't acting like himself. He wasn't smiling as much (which after us being gone all weekend...hello...his cheeks should have been hurting from smiling so much), he was kinda fussy, and his face was BEAT RED. I took his temperature and it was 101.9. Which normally we would have just given him Tylonel and watched him til the morning...but earlier last week he had a mild fever for 3 days straight so I knew something was up. We headed to the Pediatrics After Hours (like a doc in the box..but strictly for children) and sure enough he had a double ear infection and the signs (mild rash on back and tummy) that he had a virus as well. The pediatrician prescribed him antibiotics for 10 days and told us what to watch for in terms of follow ups appointments being necessary. From there we headed to the pharmacy, back home for a bath, and put our sick little boy to bed. Needless to say with a double ear infection him being in bed didn't last through the night. He is doing better this morning but still running a mild fever....Guess it is Jack's way of trying to keep us in town because now I'll be scared if we leave him he'll be sick and won't have his Mom and Dad....and he is also getting even more attention from Nick and I (if that is possible) since he is sick. He's such a smart trickster!!

Jack's Side of the Story

Grandma and Grandpa drove in from New Orleans to stay with Jack while we went to Deborah's Wedding in Birmingham. They finished up the training course around midnight on Thursday and had their packet of information and all the supplies lined up for them. Jack had a great time and I feel safe to say that they did too. Thanks!

"Mom and Dad are gone! Call the girls, get the beer-it's PARTY TIME!"

"Ha Ha Grandpa...no napping with me...now you see me...now you don't! And they thought this little basket would keep me contained."

"Look Mom...you are just a sucker...I can hold my sippy cup all by myself...but once you're home I'm going to play you like a fool and make you hold it for me."

"Grandma and Grandpa ROCK....Mom and Dad...when are you going away again because I can't wait!"

Deborah's Wedding Weekend

Mr. and Mrs. Adam Danneman

This picture was taken after the reception back at Deb's house.

The other bridesmaids and I kept Deb away from the weather reports on Friday so she didn't know of the Winter Storm that was expected to hit Birmingham. We woke up Saturday to snow falling. Here are Nick and I on Deb's old stomping group...Samford University.

Isn't she the most beautiful bride ever (well, tied with me of course!). I'm so glad that Deborah and I have stayed best friends since the FIRST GRADE and I was honored to be a part of her special day.

The Gang representing Baton Rouge!

Although Nick and I didn't get to spend as much down time together as we had planned...it was a nice weekend getaway. Nick as usual stepped up and was there to help and befriend anyone he was introduced to. While I was with Deb doing wedding things he enjoyed some time back in the room reading and watching TV...which is amazing he could do with a "Little Miss Sunshine Pageant" all over the hotel. But by the reception we were able to enjoy each other finally. It was nice to be dressed up, with nice people, eating excellent food, and you know me...drinking.

Sunday morning our plane got delayed and that was hard because although the weekend wasn't as difficult as we thought being away from Jack (we knew he was in good hands), we were both really ready to see him. We made it home, The Relle's were off, and now it's back to life we go.

Welcome to the World Gabriella Marie Saia

After over 24 hours of labor

Gabriella Marie Saia was born on

Wednesday, January 16, 2007

8:39 PM

6 lbs. 10 oz.

19 1/4 inches

She's home now and both the ladies of the Saia house are doing well. Jack, Nick, and I can't wait to meet her in a few weeks.

Double Digits-Jack is 10 Months Old

Can you believe it...Jack is 10 months already?!?! In just 2 months our little baby is going to be ONE YEAR OLD!!

This month Jack is continuing to do well with the table foods, said is first word MAMA (he says it a lot so we're not positive it is with purpose...but it sure seems like it when he is crying in his crib and reaching up while saying MAMA), talks non-stop (Blah, Blah, Blah...I think he is mimicking me on the phone), uses the walker well...but still not standing much without assistance, crawls as fast as lightening, rides in his big kid car seat, and has learned cause and effect (if he pushes at the shape inside the block it comes out the other end\if he puts the ball in the basketball goal it comes out at the bottom), and is still the MOST PERFECT BABY EVER!!

Earlier this week I had a stomach bug that I caught from someone...not mentioning any names...It was really hard to take care of him while I was trying my best to take care of myself...but he was a sweet baby and entertained himself most of the day with his toys while I lay on the couch (and bathroom floor). And for those that are thinking...morning sickness...no Jack is not having a brother/sister anytime soon...BUT he is having a cousin TODAY. We had a flight to New Orleans today but with me being sick earlier and us (Nick and I alone...YIKES) leaving town this weekend we thought it would be best for everyone if we stayed here and got well and ready for Maw Maw and Paw Paw who are on their way right now to Dallas to stay with Jack. We'll update tonight when hopefully Cousin Papaya (name to be announced at birth) is here.

Here are some outtakes from our month picture this morning...boy...is it a workout for both of us!!

"What do you mean turn around? What is dyslexic?"

"Whose got your nose?"

"Whose got your ear?"

"Fight back Plump...I'll Daniel Son your fury butt!"

"When Mommy tickles me hear it makes me laugh....how come you're not laughing?"

"What do you mean stop messing around Mom? You'll get your picture...we're just having fun."

"But Plump started it!"

"Alright...we'll be serious now...holy cow...I'm 10 months old already?!"

"Waa Waa....Look at what he did Mom...I'm through with this...work with the shots you got."

A New Way To Get Around

Hey Party People

Since the house was already clean from the playdate and Nick and I wanted to spend time with our friends last night we had a Bring Your Own...Just About Everything Party. We provided the appetizers and dessert and everyone was in charge of bringing their own meat to grill, a side to share, and any alcoholic beverages that they wanted to wash the good food down with. We had a house full...Angela, Karen/Aaron/Olivia, Robin/Derrick/Willow, Ashley/Wayne/Nathan, and Nick, Jack, and I. After dinner the boys watched the game while the girls visited. Willow slept in Robin's arms but by the end of the night Olivia was in Jack's pack in play in our room, Nathan was in Jack's swing in the guest room, and Jack was in his crib. Wow....this time last year....things were a lot different. The night was a success but we are thinking next time it might be easier just to chip in and order pizza...babies make cooking and eating a challenge for the adults. Believe it or not I have NO PICTURES...my camera was in our room and Ashley's didn't have a battery. I'm trying to upload a video of Jack playing basketball but am having troubles...maybe I'll try again later. Off to start preparing for this CRAZY week we have ahead of us.

Jack's Playdate

Jack and I hosted a playdate on Friday so that he could share all his new toys with his friends (and because Mom was needing some adult time). That afternoon they all came over to snack, play, and visit.

"Look Luke...yes I am sharing my toys, but since it is my house and they are MY toys...if I want them I get them. Wait your turn."

"Can you believe he invited me over and then just took that green ball from my very hands?!?"

"Here Luke, Luke....come and get it."

"Come little children and I will teach you many things."

Doesn't Tina look like the pigeon lady? All the kids kept migrating to her. Guess it is because she is so nice and pretty. :)

"Little Nathan...stick with me. I'm the leader of this pack and have your back."

We had a great time and can't wait to get together again soon. It is always so fun to see how the kids interact together and the adult conversations are great too...even though they are always focused around babies.

Music Man

Jack loves his regular Gymboree Class and we both look forward to going every week. But before the Holidays we previewed the Gymboree Music Class and he was all smiles and squeals the entire class. So we tried a few more and today at our last "trial" I decided that Jack is a Music Man. Since he has already done a full Semester of Level 2 we are going to do Music til he is old enough for Level 3 then switch over to that. That way by the time I return to work next year he will have gotten to try out all 3 classes. Maybe next Summer we can do the Art class to see if he is an Art Man too.

Since I chose not to take the job I am going to make the most of our time together. We are currently enrolled in Gymboree Music, Swimming Lessons twice a week, playdates at least once a week, and I also plan to fit in some library read alouds and trips to the gym (for Mom to loose what I like to blame on Jack weight...but we all know the truth and so Jack can get used to being in someone else's care slowly).

"This week is Rhythm and Blues...Hello, I'm the 3rd Blues Brother and got the outfit from Aunt Miley to prove it."

"Let me tap you a little something- something on this hear drum. Cool Huh Baby?!?"

Big Kid Decisions Are Tough

While Nick was out of town I got offered a job to teach 2nd Grade at McGowen Elementary in Mckinney under Mike, my old Principal. Jack and I toured the school and met the team. It is the position and school that I was hoping to get a job at next year but...I would have to start no later than January 28th which was crazy soon for me. We had no Daycare lined up for Jack, had already enrolled in Spring Classes, and mentally I was thinking I had until August to be with him. After going back and forth through talking, crying, and drinking....we decided that I was going to need to follow through staying home with Jack for a full academic year and let God take where I end up next year in his own hands....am I still nervous I made the wrong choice...off and on. But that very day Jack starting saying Ma Ma, progressed with peek a boo (he can now hide himself behind furniture and pop out), and figured out how to play basketball with the Tiger toy Brian gave him for Christmas. I would have missed all of that!!! None the less...Big Kid Decisions Are TOUGH!!

Because I know your only here to see Jack...

He is everywhere nowadays. Is that normal to have such a long tongue?

T-R-O-U-B-L-E