RDTs Dictionary

Ryan's New Words -

"Sup" - Favorite word of the weekend. If you're not familiar with the word "sup", it's a shortened version of "Wazzzzz-up?", or "What's up?" (The RDT dictionary is all the rage).

"Wazdat" - said with a point of a finger. Also known as, "What's that?"

"Yahyah" - repeated three times means, "come get me out of the crib".

______________________________________________

We had a fun weekend. Lots of swimming, visiting friends, and too much eating out. Friday, we went to Trilogy pizza. It was delicious. Turns out that I knew the guy we ate with. He graduated from Clark a year before me. He had played golf with Rod just before dinner. He has two precious boys that Ryan LOVED tried to follow everywhere they went. He even walked everywhere, trying to be like them. It's funny who you run in to when you live in San Antonio.

Saturday, the fam went to lunch and then Ryan and I went to Casey's house for a pool day! LOTS of fun. Ryan LOVED everyone there. LOTS of kids too. He literally played in the water for over two hours. He zonked out on the car ride home. ZONKED! Ris was sweet to read to Ryan as I got my three swim bags (ridiculous), a float, and myself together and in the car.

Sunday, we went to church with the Hardens. Always fun to sit with friends during church services. And, of course going to church means going out to eat afterwards. I know. I know. That seems silly, but when I was little, we would go out to eat and then bowling! (One of my favorite childhood memories).

After eating with sweet little JW and the Hardens, we went to a Hannah Montana pool party! hahaha! The cake was huge with stars shooting out of it, and a glazed picture of HM. All the little girls LOVED it. Even the pinata (absolute necessity for a San Antonio birthday celebration) had Hannah Montana on it. So cute.

Now, here's where it gets good....I still got "it"! I can still do a flip with a twist off the diving board. The diving board was one of those old school, super-unsafe diving boards. I put all the guys to shame! WHOSE YO MOMMA?!?! (as it was a mom body that went off that board...didnt' feel the same...a little jiggle).

I was really off with this shot...probably still jolted from my diving board moment. Ryan and Rylee (the birthday girl).

That evening, we went out to eat and met up with Shawn & Lisa, and sister Jenny and her friend Kyle. Lots of fun, and Y-U-M-M-Y margaritas!!! Delicioso. Needless to say, Rod and I were in a major vegetative state at the end of the night. I did manage to run a load of laundry before hitting the bed...HARD.

We're (well, Rod) still working on the front yard. It's looking really nice. Can't wait to get it all finished and planted!

Cleaning Out My Camera.

I know. What a doozy to start with.

We came home from Ohio with a leak under our sink. This is a cabinet next to the sink. I had all my cookbooks stored here. Lost them all. Most were SEALED shut. I still have the most important cookbook that includes all my friends/family recipes.

Below is my new FAVORITE dish to make. It's perfect for parties. The Tootles are lovin' on it. Pasta, chicken, cherry tomatoes, celery, cucumber, mozzarella cheese, avocado all mixed in Low Fat Hidden Valley Ranch dressing. Must get Hidden Valley. Super easy, and SO DELICIOUS.

Wednesday night, we went to private opening for a restaurant called BJs. Melanie (the one that doesn't keep up with her blog) and Sister Jenny joined Rod and I. We had a great time. The waitress was nervous/new and spilled water all over Rod. Other than that, the food was delicious!!! Good company!

Thursday, I got a call from daycare saying Ryan had a fever and someone needed to pick him up. This was my first time I couldn't play "Mom to the Rescue". I was heartbroken. (I run a big meeting twice a week, and I was in the middle of it when I got the call). Killer.
So, Daddy picked him up. When I got home, he was just waking up from a 3.5 hour nap. One picnic on the floor, please! We went to the doctor's office on Friday to figure out what was going on since I was just getting over Strept throat and a sinus infection. Turns out, four teeth are coming in at the same time. Get this...they're all the MOLARS. Poor little thing. He was weighed when we were in there and only weighs 19.5 lbs. Ryan's now <3%>

Group, I FOUND THE SOCKS!!! The Gap and Wal-Mart were the winners. So, after a trip to Old Navy, Ross, The Gap, Gymboree and Wal-Mart, I found a "shoe-sock" combination that I like. Shoes are Stride-Rites from Ross (yes, I found them in a bin).

Check out this room! This is in Susan's house. When Mattie Sue saw this room (in June), she said "This is perfect for me." This room has it all. Dolls, Care bears, a kitchen, several bassinets, My Little Pony's, etc. We all piled in this room to let Hudson (the son of the mom that won't keep up with her blog), Hannah and Ryan play. I cracked up laughing when Melanie pointed out that "Only Aunt Susan's play table would have a table runner."

Kellie and Ryan were buddies at the pool on Saturday. The pool party was the second celebration of Julia...Lauren's baby girl due in October. From the pool party, we had a pizza/wine party at Susan's. The evening was gorgeous. We sat outside, loving the breeze and all the stars that were out. Fun day!!! (I think Ryan was still annoyed that I put him in the pool right after waking up from a nap).

Isn't this the cutest?! Hudson and Ryan took their first bath together. Our excitement to have the boys in the tub together ended here. CRYING. And, when I say "crying", I mean "screaming crying". Both of them. Mel and I just cracked up laughing, as we both realized our vision of a fun bath time would not exist this time.

Marisa, Val, Ashley and I had a few drinks at Soluna the other week. Marisa and I gave strict instructions to make sure no rolls, double-chins, or evidence of "extra arm space" were showing. We feel pretty good about how this pic turned out.

As if Ryan Even Cares....

...but, I do. And, that is what matters. So, here is a picture of Ryan this morning on the way to school.

Navy socks, not buckled in well, tired, and trying to dance to the music... all while thinking Mom needs to give up trying to dance, take pictures, read emails, and play with Ryan while driving.

See what you think. Sorry for the poor image. Took it with my phone, while driving, and looking at the ROAD...not the child.

14 Months Old!!!

14 things about our Toots, Tooter, Stinks, Ry Ry, Tooterton:
1. He started walking, but soon decided it was no big deal, and has now stopped.
2. Mommy calls him "Ryan Donovan" when he voluntarily throws his sippy cup on the floor.
3. He's decided to become a blanket-lover...for which he's starting to snuggle with more than mommy.
4. When he's dropped off at daycare, he'll crawl all over the room before committing to a location.
5. His teachers said they've never heard him laugh harder than he did when they were juggling balls for the kids.
6. He loves it when I take off his shoes in the car on the ride home from school. Big smile!
7. He can stand up on his own and throw a soccer ball (ball of choice it seems) without holding on to anything, or anyone.
8. He thinks its hilarious when Mommy does the "washy washy" dance in the kitchen. Don't ask to see it.
9. He needs a lifejacket for a puddle of water. Take your eyes off him for a second and he's trying to JUMP in a pool. (not my favorite trait...scares me).
10. He says words like "Dat", "taaatee", "ahhhyeahhh", "weeeee", "mommmmamomama" (I'm sure that means Mom). :)
11. When we go over the railroad tracks on Dreamland, we both go "weeeeeeeeeee". Then, he'll give you the biggest smile.
12. He loves the art of dancing. "So You Think You Can Dance" just might pick up his moves as a style to pick from.
13. He's wearing new tennis shoes with socks. And, honestly, I think they look a little dorky on him. Not sure what to do about that. Auntie Stacy suggests no white socks. But, I can't use patterned socks, b/c they look a hint girly. So, does that leave me with just navy or brown socks? Oh, and there are no cool sandals for boys. All of them look like 1990s Dad sandals.
14. He still LOVES his red coupe car from the Kruger clan. We are due for a drive-in movie soon.

I'll post a pic tonight!

Life is Good - Ryan & Abby

Good friends of ours had a grand opening for their new Life is Good store...on the San Antonio River no less. PRIME LOCATION! Ryan always has a great time seeing Abby! So, it's always a treat for us to get to see the Grays. I may be stealing their blogging material, but I couldn't help myself. They're just the cutest pictures! Martha (Grandma and experienced photographer) took these precious pics.

Do pictures get cuter than this?

Here are the two of them when Ryan was one month old. Time is FLYING!

All the Pics of Our Trip!

Click on this text link www.thetootlefamily.shutterfly.com

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.