Another Winner & The Cleveland Zoo

My first winner for the PowerSox didn't reach out to me, nor was I able to track down an email anywhere from her meaning only one thing. Someone else gets to be a winner! And that new winner is Lauren M!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

(Please reach out to me within the next few days!)

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Also, you can officially call me the bird lady. This morning at the zoo I was able to get a Lorakeet to crawl onto my hand. I was more excited than a kid in a candy store and had to literally be pried away from the exhibit.

We also pet a donkey, caught rain on our fingertips and chatted in log rockers, all after riding the train. It was a good time.

Hope you're having a nice weekend as well! 

Friday's Letters

It's time for Friday's Letters again!

Dear Parents: So excited to see you guys next week and thanks in advance for letting us get out for some date nights. And potentially for watching Drew the mornings after while we sleep in.

Dear Zoo Animals: Wanted to warn you that you might hear some strange, high pitch sounds tomorrow morning. Don't worry, it's just Drew's excitement to see you. Be glad there is a cage between you and him.

Dear Nutella: Hate that I didn't try to prior to this year but hate that you can't be like 50 calories. I will still devour you though.

Dear Elmo: I'm so sorry that I leave you in a hot car all day just to be attacked at 5:30 when Drew gets in the car and spots you. At least you get a big kiss and hug each time, right?

Dear Drew: I'm worried you'll be a 4 year old that's still not potty trained. I realize you're not even 2.5 yet, but you don't seem to realize you can't just read books for hours on the potty. I'm not sure how to explain that you need to actually DO some business in there before expecting a sticker or stamp.

Dear Job: As much as I love you in general, I need you to not throw so much at me in one week again. Thankthelawd that tomorrow is the weekend and I can have a break from you.

Dear Blog friends:  Just noticed the other day that I have over 500 followers. Let me just say that it warms the cockles of my heart. Oh, what's that? You don't really read anything, you just enjoy the pictures of my adorable kid? I guess I'd be in the same boat if I were you.

Hocking Hills, Ohio

Ambitious: Holding high aspirations and a 

strong desire and determination to succeed.

I was a bit ambitious with this camping trip. And yes, I consider staying in a cabin to be "camping".

Ambitious that my spoiled husband, who doesn't realize 'pitching a tent' actually refers to camping, would be able to start a fire in the pit without lighter fluid coated charcoal.

Ambitious that we would be able to figure out the fishing poles my friend let us borrow on our own, without the help of nearby fisherman.

Ambitious that growing up camping (in a large camper) would curb my fear of the spiders and wasps we would find around our cabin.

And ambitious that co-sleeping with Drew in the big bed would be a breeze since we've done it before. (Actually, it was only the first night that wasn't fun, but he did great the 2nd)

But despite our issues, it really was a fun, unique trip. Located about 3 hours from Cleveland, the Hocking Hills state park has so much to offer for being in the middle of nowhere. You can zipline, horseback ride, kayak, paddle boat, hike anywhere from 1/4 mile to 10 miles, and see some amazing waterfalls. There are tons of secluded cabins, all equipped with hot tubs and wildlife everywhere you look.

With no phone reception, social media and communication with the outside world was put on hold. I actually quite enjoyed it and loved focusing 100% of my thoughts on nature and my family. Although he would tire quickly, Drew hiked right alongside us and loved spotting wildlife. S'mores were devoured, sparklers were lit, fishing was attempted, ducks were fed, and turtles were found. Mostly, though, fresh air filled our lungs and the amazing sights were taken in. I would highly recommend this getaway to anyone!

Don't worry, I didn't snap a picture of the 4 inch spider we saw outside our cabin. Oh, you think I'm exaggerating? Um, no.  It was the size of a tarantula, just not as fuzzy. Doesn't mean it wasn't as scary though. Thankfully, not a single bug was spotted inside our cabin. Trust me. Every nook and cranny was searched.

Ash Cave

Old Man's Cave

Cedar Falls

8 Years of Bliss

"Soulmates; two halves of the same soul 

joined together in life's journey."

Happy 8th Anniversary babe. 

There's no one in the world I'd rather be on this journey with than you. Period.


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Also, congrats to Sondra for winning the PowerSox! 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

You have 48 hours to reach out to me and claim your prize!

Summer Brew

So for Derek's birthday a few weeks ago, we had a backyard get-together and I made my friend, Collette's, Summer Brew. Everyone, like usual, loved this stuff and therefore I'm passing on my recipe to you! I know there are several variations out there, but here is hers....

Enjoy!

See The Resemblance?

It was crazy hair day today at school and I texted this pic to daddy. He then pointed out how much he looked like that Jerry Maguire kid! I should have thrown daddy's old glasses on him and snapped another!

Happy Wednesday!

Royals vs. Indians

We always look forward to when our beloved Kansas City Royals come up here to Cleveland and play the Indians. We've made it to a game each summer since Drew's birth with last night being our 3rd game. It was part of Derek's Father's Day gifts and I knew he'd have fun explaining everything to Drew.

The game wasn't until 7:05 so we didn't get to stay until the end, but thanks to silly bands and snacks, we made it through the 6th inning. We also might or might not have indulged in a delicious pretzel and cheese. Baseball games aren't complete without greasy food, right?

Oh, and the best part? The ROYALS won! I actually have kinda made fun of Derek for years about loving this team that always seem to suck. I guess this year they are in 2nd place right now? Hopefully they stay awesome!

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Also, stay tuned for my June giveaway starting Thursday morning!

Perfect Picnic

70 degrees

+

lush woods

+

yummy food

=

the perfect picnic

BTW - if anyone's looking for a large picnic blanket with waterproof backing, I'd highly recommend the Mega Mat! 

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Also, not to completely change the subject, but if you are needing a gift for a special guy in your life, I have an idea for you! I'm seriously in love with one of the gifts I got Derek for Father's Day and had to share the idea. Below is a picture from the website, but essentially it's the same thing. I found the latitude and longitude coordinates of where Drew was born (and our next most likely will be too) and had her use that location on the vintage dog tag keychain. I love that it's so personal and is the exact location in the world where he became a father and met his children for the first time. Adorable, right?

Happy Father's Day

... to the best dad I could have ever asked for.

... to the best dad Derek could have ever asked for.

... and the best dad Drew could have ever asked for.

Love all 3 of you.

Spring Picture Session

This is what happens each time I get pictures back from our photographer...

And this awesomeness is why...

Could you tell that Drew had a fever the day before as well as a cough and runny nose throughout the shoot?

And that, my friends, is why she has been our family photographer for 2 years now.

PS - If you live in or around Cleveland and need a wonderful photographer, click here for her info. 

Throw Back Thursday

When we went to Kansas City last month, Derek and I got to snap a duplicate picture on KU's campus from one we took exactly 10 years prior. The problem? See for yourself...

Um, yeah, we totally forgot that Derek was on my back 10 years ago. Oops.

But instead of stopping there, I've never posted pictures of one of our most favorite vacations ever; 

Costa Rica
(April 2007) 

We've done Europe, the Caribbean, Mexico, Hawaii, etc, etc, but there's something to be said about getting a massage in the middle of a rain-forest. It was magical.

If you ever need a new vacation destination, I'd highly recommend Costa Rica. You can stay along the beach, but I'd get deep down into the middle of the rain-forest. There are tons of safe areas with amazing food, beautiful sights and so much to do!

Linking up with Amy today!

The Next Donald Trump

I've always been a good negotiator and am very proud of that. I got high school summer jobs for a bit more pay than my friends, talked my way into a couple better grades in college and now use this almost every day with my job. Throughout my ad agency, I'm known for being a tough negotiator and generally can get what I want, often surpassing what others have in the past. And what's weird? I love it. To me, it's a challenge and I get excited when November rolls around and we start negotiating contracts for the upcoming year.

And guess who is following in mommy's footsteps? Yep. My little non-stop talking turkey has already been negotiating with his parents and I think it's hilarious.

Examples -

{After telling him we're going up for a bath in two minutes} 

"No mommy - I want 5 more minutes".

{When it's weekend nap time} 

"Not yet mommy, not yet, play a little longer first".

{I tried to get him to take a bit of chicken before giving him another raspberry} 

"No chicken, I'll eat potatoes and then get raspberry".

{After picking out two books to read at night} 

"No mommy, I get FOUR books. 

Me: No Drew, we're just going to read 2 tonight. 

Drew: Ok, mommy read 3 then?"

(we end up reading 3. he wins)

I'm sure some parents uphold the "we don't negotiate with toddlers" theory, but I actually like fostering this assertive, smart side to him. It can't hurt to let a toddler feel the satisfaction of winning from time to time, right? Plus, he got so many of Derek's physical and personality traits that when I see something he's received from me, it makes me happy..... I mean, I was the one who spent 13 hours in labor birthing the thing.

Look out Donald Trump, this little smarty might take over your throne someday!

The Color Run

I was ubber excited to hear that the Color Run was coming to Cleveland and quickly formed a team with 5 other girls to partake in the fun.

Team name: RMAO (I'll let you figure it out)

Oh and remember the glitter, puffy paint and jello shots I mentioned? All part of the pre-game makings.

We ran some, we walked some, we sang some and we jumped around some. It was a great time with some great friends followed by brunch with bloody's. Perfect day, right? I think yes!

And the obligatory before and after pics for your viewing pleasure. Don't mind my way-too-excited face.

I would highly recommend this run to anyone who wants to have a fab time! It was refreshing not to run a 5K with headphones on trying to hit a certain time. Oh, and acting like a 23 year old again was fun too.

Balloon!

Oh Drew.

Someday you are going to hate yourself for this picture. I know you're only two so balloons are where it's at, but man, what an opportunity you missed out on. Not many people get the chance to take a picture with their future idols, let alone one with an awesome camera (thanks Matt for snapping this!).

I'm pretty sure I'll never forget this picture. How you're longing for that balloon and not realizing who you're standing next to is awesome. Just awesome.

And for the majority of you who have no clue who this man is, let's just say he's one of the greatest basketball coaches of all time. Ladies and gentlemen, that man who we were lucky to stand next to for a picture on the campus of our alma mater, is none other than Bill Self.

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And other news I feel like I'm back in my sorority this week. Why? Let's just say there is puffy paint and glitter everywhere along with jello shots setting up in the fridge. More on that later.....

Remember when....

... making $8.75 at your lemonade stand was the highlight of the summer?

... you fell asleep on a late night car ride home and your father carried you all the way up to bed?

... you built sandcastles at the beach for hours until your fingers were shriveled?

... you caught lightning bugs and kept them in a jar to light up your room at night?

... you drove to visit grandparents and listened to their magical, endless stories?

... watching fireworks on a big blanket surrounded by cousins?

... the summer rains would flood the grounds and those puddles kept your attention for hours?

... slip and slides were what you looked forward to every Friday?

... you played red rover with the neighborhood kids until the sun went down?

... a red licorice rope at the pool's concession stand was $.25?

... you tried to count all of the stars with your brother while on a camping trip?

... the sound of the ice cream truck put the biggest smile on your face?

Remember when summers were spent in the sprinkler?

Happy Birthday Derek

Happy Birthday Babe! 

I know I say it a lot, but you really are my best friend and other half. Without you, this life would not be as fun, happy or adventurous. Thank you for being my loyal partner, lover and trusted confidant through it all. Cheers to another birthday!

XOXO

Meet the Trucks '13

Ambulances, Firetrucks, Police Cars, Tractors, Dump Trucks.... all in one place at the same time? Pretty much a little boy's heaven. That's why I refuse to ever miss Cleveland's "Meet The Trucks" each May! Despite waking with a fever in the middle of the night Friday night, his temps had dropped a bit by Saturday morning and I'm glad we made the decision to go.

Drew was SO excited when we pulled up to the event and continually pointed out each of the trucks in attendance as we made our way to the firetruck. He was pretty tentative about sitting in some of them at first but quickly warmed up and loved honking the horns. He wouldn't sit in the back of the police car, however, and I hope he NEVER wants to! 

A great morning wouldn't be complete without the best friend and girlfriend around. Check out that adorable hand-holding action.

And for comparison's sake, the below are exactly one year apart. The weather, Drew's size and my hair were the obvious differences. :)

Hope you all had a great weekend!