Mister Manners

I take back what I said about his manners. His pronunciation may need some work, but Emily Post would still be proud.

First Day of "School"

Today was Henry's first day at "school." He knows that big kids go to school, and I don't have the heart to break it to him that his "school" isn't really school. It's a drop-in Mother's Morning Out program at the Church down the street, and it's a great way for Henry to socialize away from yours truly. I may take advantage of it once in a while after Baby Mak arrives (especially as I get the hang of 2 under 2!), so today was a good way to introduce Henry to a few hours away from home.

The worst part about all of this is how old it makes Henry in my eyes. That little backpack and lunch box are tear inducing. Throw in the fact that Henry happily ran into the classroom, started playing trucks with a friend, and didn't even look up when Mama said goodbye and, well, Costco doesn't have enough kleenex to help me.

Last Minute Dates

Before Henry was born, Gus and I went on many dates because we knew how much life was about to change and how rare dates would become. Now that Baby Mak's arrival is just around the corner, I've been squeezing in lots of dates with the other tall, dark, and handsome man in my life. I know how much life will change as we become a family of four, and I want Henry to enjoy lots of attention these last couple weeks because he will soon have to share it.

Our afternoons used to routinely consist of a trip to the gym so I could get an hour to myself to workout and Henry could enjoy some playtime with new toys and new friends. Now that waddling has become the new jogging, we've traded afternoons at the gym for date time. Train rides at the mall, picnics in the park, carousel rides on the bench (someone was too afraid to sit on a moving zebra), lunches at Chick-fil-a, rainy days at the bookstore, and, Henry's personal favorite, ice cream al fresco! His facial expressions were those of true love and enjoyment, and his loud "MMMMs!!" could be heard across the parking lot. He shoveled the entire cup into his mouth and pouted when it was "all done". Clearly we need to work on his date manners, but for now, he has been a perfect gentleman with whom to spend the afternoon.

Traditions: Old and New

Remember this? In case you're wondering, yes, Baby Mak's middle name will be Augustus, and he will wear the Cornicello and vintage Dior romper home from the hospital. These traditions make life easy, and I like knowing that even as many things change, some things stay the same.

A few new traditions:

The Hat

I bought a knit bear hat (handmade by a sweet old lady) for Henry to wear in the hospital. Our nurses said he was the "most fashionable" baby on our floor. They were right, clearly.

I was able to track down the same old lady to knit another darling bear hat for Baby Mak. I was sure to tell her that she needs to stay in business because, God willing, I plan on being a customer again.


The Name List

We will arrive at the hospital with a short list of names (like last time). Once Baby Mak is born and we get a chance to meet him, we'll pick one that feels right. I don't think we can go wrong.


The Baby Pool

Feeling lucky? Then follow the link to the right to take a guess in the Baby Mak Pool! Be sure to pay attention to the hints at the top of the page. In keeping with tradition, the winner will recieve a dozen of my (not-so) famous chocolate chip cookies!

Our boy needs a brother.

Gus and I probably say that once a week. Henry is at this magically fun age where he loves to play and explore and imagine. But let's be honest, playing with your parents does not compare to playing with your little brother. Until then, he will have to enjoy giving his Baby Brother a nice belly rub and sharing his trucks. Just a few more weeks, sweet boy.

Oh my darlin', Clementine!

Henry-boy loves him some clementines, and it certainly shows. Henry is usually pretty calm, and I am fairly certain he doesn't get that from me. He has also been very expressive lately, and I'm pretty sure I know who that comes from, too. (Watch for those crazy eyes!)

My Funny Valentine

How could you not love Valentine's Day when you wake up to this face in monkey pajamas?!?


We started the morning by making Daddy a valentine and then hiding it in his car before he left for work. I have a feeling those Reese's Pieces were his breakfast.




When Daddy came home from work, he wooed me with roses and Sour Patch Kids. Clearly he knows the way to my heart (and Baby Mak's).


Nine years ago, Gus and I dined at a Cracker Barrel in Howell, Michigan on Valentine's Day because it was the half-way point between our two colleges. And from that night, a tradition was born. Tonight we spent our tenth consecutive Valentine's Day dinner there with our almost 2 year old and almost newborn. I'm hoping by the time we're 70, I will have enough photographic proof of our children aging in those cute rocking chairs that Cracker Barrel will fall in love with our story and throw in a dinner on the house.