Tootle Family Vacation - Ohio 2008

We had a BLAST on our vacation. I absolutely under-estimated Ryan with how well he would do on such an excursion. Our trip included a night at Grandma's, four nights in Huron on the lake, one night in an Amish country, one night in Gallipolis, OH, and the final night in Columbus, OH. Ryan seriously handled the ENTIRE trip as though he was a world traveler. He slept in closets, bathrooms, and hotel rooms with the t.v. on! I think he ate his weight in snacks while on this trip. (Whatever kept him going, we gave him). We were so proud of him. We were mostly proud of his new accomplishment of WALKING!!!! He walked right in to the arms of Aunt Tallie (which by the way....Tallie, you need to come up with your name).

There is so much to say about this vacation. I don't even know where to begin.

We started off at my Auntie Bev's house for some yummy burgers. My cousin Jason and his family drove up from Columbus to see us. That whole evening meant the world to us. They immediately threw an Ohio State hat on Rod, welcomed me with a glass of wine, and showered Ryan with lots of love and presents! We had a blast...next time we'll be visiting them longer.

Then, we headed to Grandma's house. If you've not been there, it's hard to explain how nostalgic you feel when you walk in to her house. There are TONS of memories there, so to have Rod and Ryan in her home was awesome. Grandma went with us to Lakeside, and she showed us around. The town is sooooo cute. Wish the weather was better. There were rainstorms all around us so we headed out before we wanted to.

After Lakeside, we drove on to Huron where we stayed in a neat house right on the lake. This is where we met up with Grandma, Grandpa and Aunt Tallie. And, this is when Ryan took his first steps. Now, let me say this...I had NO IDEA that when I toddler learns how to walk, that that is all they'll want to do and try. So, this whole idea played a significant role when flying home. LORD ALL MIGHTY!

Okay, so the next day, we went to Grandpa's house just before heading to the ferry for Put-n-Bay. Always nice to see Grandpa and relax out on his porch that overlooks the lake. We soon heading out to catch the next ferry...only to realize that we left the stroller back in Huron. ARGH. I bought that stroller specifically for this trip, and had been picturing us strolling Ryan around the island in his suped-up wheels. Well, turned out...we didn't need it at all. We had a golf cart that we strolled around in all over! We had burgers and beers before touring around. We were pooped at the end of the trip, so the ferry ride home was nice and relaxing.

The next day we went back to Grandpa's. The boys played golf at the club while us girls (and ryan) had lunch on the lake, and then went swimming with Mary, Joe and Lucy. (cousin and her kids). After a long day at the pool, we headed back up to Grandpa's to enjoy a few drinks and good conversation on his porch. Then, it was off to eat at Mon Ami. We're now on Wednesday....PLAY DAY for Rod and I. Tallie, Rod and I went to Cedar Point while Grandma and Grandpa so graciously took care of Ryan (they toured around Lakeside and Marblehead). We had a blast at Cedar Point. If you want to, go check out there website. There is a ride called the Dragster that is unbelievable. You go 0 to 120 mph in 4.0 seconds. Jealous Dad??? CP has soooo many BIG rides, that we didn't even get a chance to ride them all. We got home at 10pm, and were EXHAUSTED!

Thursday, we headed out to the Amish country which was absolutely fascinating! Russell (Rod's dad) found a neat place for us to stay the night. I laugh when I think about how Tallie and I saw a lady walking outside with a pan of rolls, and a dead chicken....feathers and all. Rod and Russell played golf while us women (and Ryan) went shopping in Walnut Creek. All I wanted to do was stare. I plan to get some books and read more about this culture.

Friday, we headed to Gallipolis where Millie (Grandma) grew up. I had so much fun meeting all of Rod's relatives. They were all so great and fun to meet. LOTS of kids in that family, all of which I enjoyed. We went to the town's carnival with the whole group. Saturday (hang in there...I'm almost done) we went to Columbus to meet up with one of Millie's brother's and his family. It was nice because we got to visit more with the Roderick's and relax. That night, we stayed in Columbus...I went straight to bed. I was exhausted.

Millie, Russell, and Tallie were soooooooo wonderful with Ryan. They were a huge help for Rod and I. They really made the trip so easy with a 13 month old. THANK YOU!!!!

Today, Ryan slept until 9:30am this morning, and went down for a nap at 11:00 and didn't wake up until 2:30. Actually, Rod and I had to wake him so we could go get something to eat.

Remember When...

...after a doctor's appointment, your mom would take you to Wendy's or McDonald's??? I guess I was feeling quite nostalgic and wanted to do the same with Ryan. I wanted that good bonding time. I remember having my mom's full attention, and I just loved it. (middle child syndrome) I pictured him feeding me a fry and then cracking up at how funny it is that mommy ate a fry from his precious hand.

So, after Ryan's doc appt (double ear infection, congestion) off we went to McDonald's to enjoy a cheeseless burger for my milk-protein allergy kid. I soon realized that this lunch date would not go as dreamy as I thought it would. First, we stand in line for 15 minutes. Determined? Yes. It seems as though we picked the same lunch time as the area construction workers, and the Camp Bullis Military base. So, we get up to the counter and as I'm searching for my wallet, Ryan is pulling down on the ice tea dispencer. You get the idea. (FYI...There will be no putting my child down on a McDonald's floor). So, I apologize for two things. 1. being disorganized and 2. for the mess on the floor. (not that it makes any difference).

So, we get our meals, and I realized everything is just sticky. STICKY! I roll Ryan around in the high chair, holding our food tray, and trying to dodge the people in line. Finally, we find our seat..., and I'm still thinking I can pull this off. Ryan's fries were too hot so after one bite he refused them. I place his burger on his tray. I'm trying to talk and entertain him, and he just wanted to face toward the line of people, and stare at them. Then, he starts to eat, and his eyes start getting heavier and heavier. I few sips from his sippy cup, and the eyes are rolling backwards. Oh dear. 5.5 seconds and my child will be asleep in his sticky high chair, in the sticky restaurant, with ketchup in his hair. We bolted out of there to head back to daycare. And, as I assumed, he was passed out in my car, sound asleep like an angel.

Don't worry. The determination is still there, and I'll try again. I loved those times with my mom, so I'll be sure to carry on the tradition. Except....when I take my kid to the dentist, he won't get a red slushy AFTER his teeth cleaning. :) Love you mom! You are still so fun, and the SWEETEST!

"Ryan, look at Mommy. Isn't this fun?!?"

Mom's Surprise 60th Birthday Celebration

The evening was PERFECT! There was so much love for my mom! All my "second moms" worked hard to make it so special and again PERFECT for her.

HAPPY 60TH!!!!

Mom's 60th Birthday Celebration

(Click on the link above to enjoy the photos)

HAPPY BIRTHDAY NAMA!!!!

Not only is it YOUR birthday, you're turning 60....yet, look like you just turned 45! We love you to pieces and thank you for all you do for the Tootle Family!

They've Got a Lot in Common

This picture was in August 2007 when we visited the Arnolds. Mattie Sue and Ryan have a lot in common, besides their look. Ryan was just in training back then. He's an official t.v., Knocke-chair lovin' kid. (see pic below)

13 Months!!!

Here's Ryan at 13 months... Still lovin' his dvds and his chair. Thought this would be the easiest way to keep him still while capturing his growth...little growth, but growth nonetheless.

Giving mango a try at Holden's 1 yr birthday party.

Not very often you see a Ryan and Mommy pic.Happiest 13 months of our lives!

13 Ryanisms:

1. Ryan's translation of "mom" is "mumba".

2. He can say "all done" and "more". (in sign language)

3. Still the teacher's pet.

4. Still not walking, but you're dying to take that leap.

5. You were missed terribly while I was in Phoenix.

6. You're becoming a "momma's boy", and daddy isn't lovin' it too much.

7. You LOVE to see your grandparents.

8. You're growing teeth all over the place. No real order to them.

9. Miralax is a new friend of yours.

10. You've celebrated two Father's Days!

11. You painted a fish for Daddy's Father's Day gift.

12. You fit in sizes 9 mos to 18 mos depending on the brand.

13. You make the BEST faces!

The Heat is ON!

Rod's been working in the yard the past few weekends. He's building two retaining walls, and flower beds throughout the frontyard. It's going to look sooooo nice!

NOTE: there are two dead x-mas trees in our yard. SOME, lack of a better word, human being, put them there the day after bulk trash day. Here's my theory...a teenager's mom asked her kid to throw out the two trees that had been in their backyard for (apparently) two years. Since they missed the "bulk trash day", she was asked him take them to a dumpster before he "went out for the night". Instead, the kid decided to get rid of it in our yard. SOOOO FRUSTRATING! Rod had to find a dumpster to dump them in.
So, I've learned that taking a child from a nap, straight to a cold sprinkler pool (compliments of Auntie Jenny), is not always the best idea. He was so confused, and annoyed with us. On top of it, I made him play the "so big" game. He was gracious enough to play along.

It's been hot in San Antonio. For you Blackberry users....don't leave your blackberry outside all day in the Texas heat. And, another note, if you're going to close up your tailgate to your truck, make sure your overheated BB is not in the way. For all Rod's efforts in the yard, this happened. Yep. It combusted when he was trying to shut the tailgate to a friend's truck.

We had such a fun time with the Tootle side of the family. We don't get to visit with them often, but it's always nice to see them when we can. I got to meet a few new family members that were in town. I had a "moment" when I realized that all of these people were Ryan's blood relatives. I know that sounds silly, but I just loved it! His new sneakers. Apparently, Robeez don't protect against hot surfaces in the TEXAS HEAT!

Next week, I'll be in the Phoenix heat. :( CANNOT WAIT FOR OUR OHIO VACATION!

CONGRATULATIONS TO MY COUSIN's FAMILY!!! Carrington Taylor is their first baby girl! They have two precious boys. You can see how precious they are on The Cousins blog.

Rise & Shine!

Ryan's Week in Review

We had to adjust Ryan's seat...he didn't take his eyes off the DVD player.

Before haircut (Yes, along with learning words, we're working on road rage).

I think this is the cutest. He'll cover himself up with his blanket. I had to capture it.

Ryan's "thing" is to stick his fingers in my mouth. He thinks it's fascinating.

Memorial Weekend 2008!!!

Tootle Lakehouse

Rylee and Blake LOVE playing with Ryan.

Diaperless and loving it!

Total relaxation! Grandma Tootle had Ryan, Dad was on the boat, and mom on the raft.

Baby Ryan loved the wakes from the boats.

Ryan was so much fun the entire trip.
We turned his car seat around. We did not have to turn on the DVD player the entire ride to the lakehouse. He was lovin' it!

2nd haircut pic. Had to share. He's so cute in that seat.

One-Year Ryanisms

Sweet boy, here are your little "isms" at one-year old. Mommy's sorry she made the blog about her the last few posts.

WE LOVE YOU SWEET CHILD OF GOD!

-You LOVE to snuggle. You're one of the best I know!

-You love to play with your friends at daycare, but mostly love your independence.

-You'll eat just about anything. But, anything green must be put on the plate first. Otherwise, you won't eat it.

-You do "bed-head" quite well.

-You've discovered the joy of gravity, and mostly on my unforgiving Saltillo tile.

-You'll blow bubbles, but not in the pool.

-You got a car for your first birthday, and look like you know what to do with it.

-You've now had two haircuts, and sorry kid. You'll look Amish for a few weeks.

-You have such a sweet disposition about yourself.

-Your teachers are teaching you how to pray at mealtimes...and, even snack times. Thank you CHUMs.

-You just started brushing your teeth. And, right now you have two that are "up", two that have just made their debut, and four more that are about to show themselves.

-You are loved by all of the teachers at your school...even the ones that aren't your teachers. They all know "Tootle"

-You are brave, but cautious.

-You've taken three steps on your own, but didn't even realize it.

-You're just about to walk. Just need to let go of our hands. Spread your wings, kid.

-You have lots of birthday parties coming up b/c all of your friends are about to turn one.

-You now drink Soy milk. No more of the liquid gold. (Alimentum)

-Your mommy didn't take the time to wean you off of bottles, yet you handled it like a champ. (Thank you).

-You still LOVE your baths. And, baths with Daddy make you the happiest.

-You got tubes in your ears in March. They still look great, even with the dunks from swim class. (Sorry, Dr. McCray...they make us dunk them).

-You are catching on to the book before bed routine... which means more snuggle time with Mommy and Daddy.

-You're smiling at the camera now.

-You love to climb on anything and everything.

-You made mommy purchase Babywise - The Pretoddler Phase so that she can figure out how to "train" you for freedom. (aka...discipline them, and teach them new habits)

-You LOVE the Spurs!!!

Father God, we thank you MORE THAN WE CAN EVER EXPLAIN for trusting us with your precious child! Thank you for making him the cutest dang thing ever!

(Keep in mind, this is your baby book...hence this post).

A Shout-out to Myself

Announcement!!!! I washed my LAST bottle of Ryan's today!

It was a good feeling. One I felt I should reflect on. One that deserves to have my feet up, and an hour of Oprah. Oh wait, gotta wake Ryan in 30 minutes to leave for swim lessons. I now feel encouraged and enlightened to be a new toddler's mommy. I feel that 365 days of bottles, 52 days of washing them, and multiply that by five (b/c Dr. Brown's is so sweet to give you five pieces to one single bottle), and you earn the Golden Sippy Cup award. I'll be looking for mine in the mail. It will be here, don't worry.

Now, here's my "beef" with sippy cups....some companies have mastered the "no spilling" cups with NO VALVES. Why are some companies still making sippies with valves...."Hi, Sippy Cup Makers, I'm a mom. I lose things b/c I'm a mom. You expect me to keep track of a clear, little valve for my son's sippy cups? Your valves are different from other companies valves, and so yet again I find myself playing "build the bottle" with a simple sippy cup. Please note that there are sippy cup companies that have mastered the "no valve, no spillage" cup. Figure it out. Sincerely, Momma Tootle."

Okay, I don't mean to take away from my self-inflicted shout-out...I'm just a "new mom" that will settle down to the idea she now has a toddler. Margarita, please.

...And, He WILL Cry if He Wants to

HAPPY 1st BIRTHDAY RYAN!!!! Hope your day is going better than it was this morning. Mommy and Daddy LOVE their Baby Ryan!

The picture below is the birthday boy when I dropped him off at daycare this morning. They're in the middle of their snacktime prayer, for which my son chose not to participate. What you don't see, is his cute, "Mr. Happy" shirt mommy picked out for him to wear on his birthday. Jenny, are his feet cracking you up in this picture?!?!

I'm sort of getting the hint that I'm not the cool mom of the group. It's as if he's thinking he's learning the "Mom, you're so embarrassing" face.
Ryan's classmates. This is the picture that has made me realize, he needs another haircut. More pics from the weekend...

Ryan's new thing...climbing on top of anything he can get on.
Demolition, complete! Nice work on the cupcake.My sweet friend Allison is having a baby in June! These are all my oldest, and dearest friends, some of which came in to town from Seattle, Baltimore, and Virgina.

Party Time!

This is the look he had the entire time we sang "Happy Birthday". It was seriously PRICELESS!

We plan to celebrate his birthday all week!!! These pictures are from the first celebration! Actually, I lied. Nama and Poppy had him open their presents and blow out a candle (on his personalized cake) the night before. So, we're two down, and all week to go!

Ryan was the CUTEST when everyone started singing to him. He could not grasp what in the world was going on. His mouth was wide open the entire song. He looked at the sea of adults, and was fascinated that we were all singing the SAME THING.

All was going well until the birthday boy took a fall, straight to the floor, right after we sang "Happy Birthday". It all played out like this...

"...happy birthday to YOUUUUUU" BAM! He hit the floor. Mother-of-the-year said no to a highchair before we started singing. Jenny got it on video, so cannot wait to see the disaster! I'll be sure to post it.

Ryan was showered with soooo much love and TONS of presents! We officially need a bigger house. He got it all...pool toys, books, puppets, clothes, band sets, "Where the Sidewalk Ends", Noah's Ark playset, dump truck, A Tiny Tots CAR from the Krugers (we'll be putting that together this week), learning toys (mom's favs), a penguin to pounce on, and bounce back at him...oh gosh, the list goes on! Seriously a blessed baby! Mom and dad got him pajamas. Lucky kid. :)

Ryan's Personality....

This video doesn't show the length of time Ryan tried to figure out how to get down the step safely. Holden and I must have watched him for 10 minutes try to figure it out. I learned that Ryan likes to "figure things out" on his own! So, in "his" moments, please don't bother him.

I saw him get frustrated with himself for not being able to figure it out. The video shows a little of that. He's very persistent, and determined. At one point, he had his foot down on the lower level, and was shaking as he tried to carry his little body to the bottom level. Quite a sweet moment, and I don't feel I'm explaining it to its fullest.



P.S. Ryan was bitten (is that a word) yesterday at daycare. Since this is my make-shift "baby book", I thought I should jot it down.

My Original Thought...

...was to do absolutely NOTHING this weekend. The weekend turned in to:

1. One dad gone hunting

2. One swim lesson, with three dunks

3. Dinner party with seven moms at my house, Friday night.

4. Stayed up till 1am.

5. Went shopping with Nama to Toys 'R Us (which was so fun), Party City for a soon-to-be 1-yearer.

6. Husband got home, and off we went to Sea World to meet up with the Carrolls

7. Ordered a pizza and watched the Spurs game

8. Looked for a wall oven/microwave set, only to discover we'll have to redo our cabinets.

9. Reorganized my pantry, ryan's "feeding shelf", and his closet.

10. Took Ryan for a walk, went swinging.

11. Bathed a "3 day, no bath" child. (appareantly, Jessica thinks pool water is the same as soapy water. Sorry kid.)

12. Updated (updating) my blog.

13. Took in a precious moment of my sweet husband reading to my sweet baby boy.