Getting To Know Me

1. WERE YOU NAMED AFTER ANYONE?  My mom says yes, my dad says no.  I say I was named after the Brooklyn Bridge since my parents are both from New York.

2. WHEN WAS THE LAST TIME YOU CRIED?  April 23, 2010 - muscle cramp during softball game.

3. DO YOU LIKE YOUR HANDWRITING?  Sometimes

4. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE LUNCH MEAT?  Salami

5. DO YOU HAVE KIDS?  Yes, an 11-month old boy

6. IF YOU WERE ANOTHER PERSON, WOULD YOU BE FRIENDS WITH YOU?  Probably not, I'm not very compassionate

7. DO YOU USE SARCASM?  Yes

8. DO YOU STILL HAVE YOUR TONSILS?  Yes

9. WOULD YOU BUNGEE JUMP?  Probably not

10. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE CEREAL?  Cheerios

11. DO YOU UNTIE YOUR SHOES WHEN YOU TAKE THEM OFF?  Only if they're tied too tight

12. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ICE CREAM?  Mint Chocolate Chip

13. WHAT IS THE FIRST THING YOU NOTICE ABOUT PEOPLE?  Their height

14. WHAT IS YOUR LEAST FAVORITE THING ABOUT YOURSELF?  Oh my....too many to list but my VERY least favorite is my negativity

15. WHO DO YOU MISS THE MOST?  My son while I'm at work

16. DO YOU WANT EVERYONE TO COMPLETE THIS LIST?  Sure....why not?

17. WHAT COLOR PANTS AND SHOES ARE YOU WEARING?  Denim jeans and white sandals

18. WHAT ARE YOU LISTENING TO RIGHT NOW?  Only You by The David Crowder Band

19. IF YOU WERE A CRAYON, WHAT COLOR WOULD YOU BE?  Radical Red

20. FAVORITE SMELLS?  My husband's cooking and just my husband in general

21. WHO WAS THE LAST PERSON YOU TALKED TO ON THE PHONE?  My husband

22. DO YOU LIKE THE PERSON WHO SENT THIS TO YOU?  I actually searched through Google to find this questionnaire but I do like Google!

23. FAVORITE SPORTS TO WATCH?  Football and baseball

24. HAIR COLOR?  Brown with a few strands of gray

25. EYE COLOR?  Brown....boring I know

26. DO YOU WEAR CONTACTS?  Yes

27. FAVORITE FOODS?  Pad Thai (4 star)

28. LAST MOVIE YOU WATCHED?  In the theaters?  The Blind Side

29. WHAT COLOR SHIRT ARE YOU WEARING?  White with gree polka dots

30. SUMMER OR WINTER?  Summer but Fall in preferred

31. HUGS OR KISSES?  Hugs

32. MOST LIKELY TO RESPOND?  Probably my mom

33. LEAST LIKELY TO RESPOND?  Probably my mom now that she read #32

34. WHAT BOOK ARE YOU READING NOW?  Sheet Music 

35. WHAT IS ON YOUR MOUSE PAD?  Black colored with wrist support

36. WHAT DID YOU WATCH ON TV LAST NIGHT?  In order: Friends, The Office, Community, The Office

37. FAVORITE SOUND?  My son laughing

38. ROLLING STONES OR BEATLES?  Beatles

39. WHAT IS THE FARTHEST YOU HAVE BEEN FROM HOME?  Hawaii

40. DO YOU HAVE A SPECIAL TALENT?  Not really 

41. WHERE WERE U BORN?  Dunedin, FL

42. HOW DID YOU MEET YOUR SPOUSE / SIGNIFICANT OTHER?  Went to High School together.  Me c/o 99.  Eric c/o 01  Then got re-introduced at a local college Bible study in 2005

Change of Plans

After a few sleepless nights this week, Eric and I have decided to not bring Gavin with us to the baseball game this Saturday.  Gavin has had a runny nose for the past two days and he has not been sleeping through the night.  We know for a fact that it's those stinkin' teeth.  They're poking through but not fully exposed.  He has been cranky beyond belief!  I can't put him down without him screaming his head off.  So, as a result of his misbehavior (which is out of his control), we're not taking him.  I was really excited to take him, too!  My dad even bought him a little Rays outfit.  I guess he'll have to wear it while cheering from home.

Rush, rush, rush

Lately while driving, I've noticed how many people are in such a rush these days.  They zoom past the flow of traffic just to reach a red light.  They tail others as the universal sign of "you're going too slow!"  They violate a bunch of traffic laws and never get caught....at least not in my presence.  It makes me think that they are so focused on their destination that they become impatient, wreckless and almost rude to those around them.  Do we do that in life?  Are we so focused on where we're going that we neglect the needs and concerns of those around us?  Just something to think about....   

I'll admit that I do go over the speed limit but I try to stay with the flow of traffic and tend to be patient with those idiots around me.  My husband, on the other hand, he goes from one extreme to another!  Sometimes he doesn't even know that he's going 10 mph under the speed limit.  His excuse, "I'm carrying precious cargo."  Then other times he'll be speeding down US 19.  His excuse, "I'm going with the flow of traffic."  My response, "Not if you're ahead of everyone else!"

Scenario:  If there is noticeably a red light ahead, Eric will literally slow down when he's not even half way there.  The car behind us is tailing us then angrily swerves around; probably waving the inappropriate finger and yelling words that are bleeped out on tv.  Then Eric says something, "Why speed up just to slow down?"  It made me smile because he really looks to see what's ahead and he chooses the appropriate actions to take.  He looked at the big picture!  The car that was behind us only saw what was in front of them:  someone that was not going their speed.  I hope all of this makes sense because it sounds good in my head! :)     

To sum up, don't be in such a rush.  Be aware of those around you.  You'll get there when you get there.  (Speaking literally and metaphorically)

This topic made me think of this safety commercial.  It's very powerful!

First Baseball Game?

So I just heard word that we may be taking Gavin to his very FIRST Rays' Game!  Our friends have season tickets and they can't make it this Saturday.  So they extended the offer to us.  I have a feeling this is going to be quite an adventure.  So....if you happen to have any Rays' apparel for toddlers (oh my...is my son actually a toddler?) or adults, let us know so we can support our home team! :)

Feeling Helpless

This past weekend was definitely an emotional adventure for me.  Eric went to South Florida again this past Friday night.  My dad was working.  My mom said she had been sick.  My mother-in-law was in downtown St. Pete.  And I wanted to play softball!  A friend had asked me to fill-in so I found a sitter to attend the game so I could take Gavin.  Everything was going alright.  I suck at playing 3rd base.  I suck at hitting.  And now, I figured out that I suck at running!  Here's what happened:

I was up at bat.  0 balls - 2 strikes.  I hit the ball just past the pitcher and into center field.  I ran to first base and made it!  Next up, John Sims.  Not sure where he hit the ball but I took off to second and made it again!  I saw that the ball was loose so I definitely could run to third base.  And that's when it happened.  As I'm about three steps away from third base wanting to round it and run home, my left quad cramped up.  I will say that I made it to third base though!  But I was done for.  I was limping to the stands with a feeling a disappointment and defeat.  I was trying to stretch it out but my leg muscles wanted nothing of it.  I saw my son crying for me and I couldn't hold him.  I saw the team and I know I let them down.  Then I did something that I didn't even do when I was in labor; I cried.  Yes, the paid hurt so much but add the feeling of helplessness and I'm an instant wreck.

After the game, it took a long time to get to the car.  I was using Gavin's stroller as my walker.  Thankfully it was my left leg so I could drive.  I called Eric right away.  Then I called my mother-in-law; she was too far away to help with Gavin.  Then I got a hold of my sister-in-law.  Thankfully she was home and after my hysterically explanation, she offered to meet me at home to help put Gavin to bed.  Heather and Dylan were my heroes!

If you know me well enough, then you'll know that I'm not one to ask for help.  But every now and then (lately often), God breaks me of my pride and shows me that I can't do everything on my own.  He's given us family and friends to assist us when the burden is too heavy.  They're gifts from God!  Like salvation, why wouldn't you want a free gift from God?!  Lord, thank You for the many "gifts" You have blessed me with.  I only pray that I can help others as You have equipped my family and friends to help me.       

Footsteps continued....

Here are my attempts to get Gavin's steps on video:

Footsteps

Yes, Gavin took his first steps tonight!!!  He took at least 4 steps and it was such a surprise!  My friend, Tina, and her little girl, Alyssa are in town and we had planned to hang out for a bit.  So we went to Tina's mom's house so the little ones could play.  Another friend, Alison, came over because I haven't seen her since last year.  So....Gavin was standing against some cabinets while holding a tennis ball.  We were just talking then all of a sudden he started walking towards me!  All of us were shocked and so excited that we just screamed praises to Gavin.  I think he knew he did something amazing because he kept smiling and clapping.  He did it a couple more times and he was just as excited as we were!

Sadly, Eric was at school when all of this happened.  I was hoping that Gavin would stay up long enough so Eric could come home and watch his new trick.  Didn't happen.  So we'll try again in the morning.  I've been trying to get it on video but alas, no success.  So be on the lookout for a video soon....

YAAAAY!!!!

When Daddy Comes Home....

Learning Bad Habits....

Wonderful Visit

I know I have been absent for almost a week but I have a good excuse!  Eric's dad and stepmother have been in town since last Friday.  I wish I could write about every detail but that would take forever.  Take my word for it, we had a great time and a wonderful visit with them.  (Pictures to follow later this week)  Sadly, they left this morning. 

I will mention that Gavin went to the beach for the first time this weekend.  It took him awhile to get used to the sand but he enjoyed it.  He only tried to eat it once.  Then it took him awhile to get used to the water but then he loved the waves!  Gavin would laugh every time he got splashed by a wave.  I can definitely see us being an "every-Saturday-a-Beach-Day" kinda family. :) 

Well, just wanted you to know that I'm still here.  Have a wonderful evening!

P.S.  So glad Glee is on again! 

Easter Pictures

Emperor's New Clothes

My husband, Eric, is performing this Saturday morning, April 10th @ 11:00 am at the Largo Cultural Center. 

The production is The Emperor's New Clothes. 

Largo Cultural Center
105 Central Park Dr., Largo, FL 33779
http://www.largoarts.com/

$8 Adult, $7 Children
$25 Family 4-pack
Buy tickets now by calling the Box Office (727)587-6793

Hope to see you there!

Newly Weds

Sometimes it's difficult to think that Eric and I are still newly weds.  Having a baby in our first year marriage can do that to a couple.  :)  So to remedy that thought, I consistently look at our wedding and honeymoon pictures.  Here are a few of my favorites:

Our Honeymoon in North Carolina

At the Biltmore Estates

A romantic evening out

On a train through the Great Smoky Mountains

I am a Friend of God

Time to Breathe...

I'm just now catching my breath since the last time I posted an entry!  Whew....I must say that we accomplished EVERYTHING we had planned to do this past weekend.  Now I can let out a huge sigh of relief....

Thursday night, we went to the batting cages while Gavin stayed home with Mema.  We then went out with friends for those 007 wings at Hooters, however, we didn't get the "hot" sauce we ordered.  Instead, we had some sort of asian hot spice which is NOT the same.  Oh well....it just makes me crave them again.  After Hooters, we went across the street to Chili's for the Perfect Margarita.  Love those drinks! 

Friday morning, the three of us went for an hour long walk around the neighborhood.  It was so refreshing.  Then we headed up to Palm Harbor for lunch with my brother and his fiancee.  Believe it or not but Palm Harbor is half-way for us.  We had a nice time and it was good to see them before they head over to Hawaii. 

After lunch, we dropped a few clothes and toys at our friend's house.  Brandi, Gabe is so handsome and he's growing so fast!  Remember to keep taking pictures even if you think you already took too many.  After our little visit, we headed down to the hair salon.  Gavin was first and this time he was a lot more fidgety.  So Mema cut as much as she could. 

Then it was my turn.  We took these pictures first. 

Then we put it in a pony tail and measured out 11 inches.

Then you know the rest.... 

She actually cut off about 3 more inches to get it as short as it is.  The final result are in pictures further down. 

Anyhow, continuing on with our weekend.  I filled in for co-ed softball league Friday night.  We lost and I don't think I helped at all.  But it was fun. 

Saturday morning, I got some "me" time!  I headed down to the mall around 9:30, hoping that Macy's (MY FAVORITE STORE) would be open.  Sadly, it didn't open till 10:00.  So I got a chai tea latte and I walked up and down the mall.  Then I waited outside Macy's in anticipation.  I'll admit, I got a little irritated when my cell phone said it was 10:07 and the doors were still not open.  I noticed that they ended their staff meeting and I saw one of them walk towards the door.  My heart was beating so fast!  I haven't shopped in this store in a VERY long time.  As the clerk unlocked the door and was sliding it open, I felt like running through the whole store!  But I kept my cool and I was struttin' like I come here every week.  My first stop was the baby dept.  I had to find Gavin an Easter outfit.  I took pictures with my cell phone and sent them to Eric.  We made a decision and now it was my turn to find an outfit.  Let's just say that it took 15 minutes to find Gavin's outfit and it took me an hour and 45 minutes to find mine!  I guess I should've prefaced my Macy's shopping spree with the fact that I had gift cards from about 2 years ago to use.  I then headed home.  Then we headed back out again.  We went to the fish store and got to look at all the pretty fish.  It was good family afternoon time. 

Saturday night, we went to our friends', the Kalil's, house for dinner and games.  We brought Gavin with us and he absolutely loved their dog, Miley.  She kept licking Gavin's face and he would just giggle and crawl after her for more.  It was a good, relaxing time.  :)

Sunday morning, Gavin was definitely not in the mood to do anything we wanted him to!  He was fussy playing, taking a bath, and getting him dressed.  It wasn't until we put him in the carseat when he just zonked out!  So, this day I'll just briefly explain.  We went to church, we went to Mema's for brunch, we went to my mom's for dinner, then we went home and went straight to bed.  The End!

We still haven't heard anything about the house.  However, our realtor told us a bit of interesting information.  Apparently, beginning April 1st, the banks are supposed to have an answer within 10 days on short sale and foreclosure offers.  So, hopefully we'll be able to hear something within the next week!

Hope everyone had a blessed Easter and a wonderful weekend as we did!  More pictures from Easter Sunday to follow....

Countdown: 1 Day

So I measured my hair today.  I used to do this a lot when I had long hair before.  The longest it ever got was 22 inches because I would joke that it was longer than a newborn baby.  Today, I created a new record of 26 1/2 inches!  I actually feel a lot better knowing that it's longer than I thought.  That means I'm only cutting less than half my hair off. :)  Gavin will also be getting a haircut tomorrow.  He had his first hair cut at almost 6 months old and now again at 10 1/2 months old.  Thank God we have a hairstylist in the family! :)

I've always known this but it became very evident last night....Gavin LOVES bathtime!  He was all over the tub; splashing, kicking, bouncing and slipping.  I was worried about him bumping his head so I got him a faucet cover.  Gavin's uncle would be so proud because it's a Fire Fighter Duckie!  Since Eric was at school last night, it was difficult to video tape Gavin and his excitement for bathtime.  I'll try next time.  

Tonight was supposed to be batting practice with the team but apparently I'm the only one who needs the practice.  Everyone else bailed.  Oh well.  Eric and I are still going and then we're heading to Hooters for 007 Wings!  I'm SO excited!  I've been craving these wings since the last time I had them in December.  

Tomorrow will be quite busy as will the rest of the weekend.  First of all, we have off for Good Friday.  So, we're having lunch with my brother and my soon-to-be sister-in-law.  (They're getting married at the end of this month in Hawaii.)  After lunch, we're going to stop by my friend's house and drop off clothes and toys for her 5 month old baby boy, Gabe.  Clothes for Gavin have never been a worry for us because we get all of his cousin's hand-me-downs.  We are actually stocked with clothes till he's 4 years old!  Then after our visit with Gabe and his mommy, it'll be haircut time.  I'm telling you all of this now because I doubt I'll have time to post anything tomorrow.  Hopefully on Saturday, I'll be able to upload the before and after pictures of my hair.  Have a great Easter weekend!