Keeping up with the Kovics

Long time, No write!

2011-01-26T14:39:00.000-05:00

Hello, Is anybody out there?
We have been busy around the Kovic house, as I'm sure you have been as well.
My business website has had a makeover, and I'd love for you to check it out!
In fact there is a GIVEAWAY going on right now! More about my sweet boys and fantastic husband to come..Just so you know, Jay is about to graduate with his Bachelors degree, Easton is Mr. Popularity at school, and Grayson is getting ready for his first birthday! You'll want to keep reading, I promise to be back!
Till then-go to Markers & Mud and enter for the free goodies I'm giving away!
Till then...cheers!

Easton is TWO!

2010-10-13T13:55:00.001-04:00

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He has grown in a blink of an eye! Easton LOVES the role of “big brother”, he is really enjoying Grayson more and more as he is able to “play” a bit more. Easton is ALL boy, with all the energy that comes with that. He weighs 28 lbs and is pretty tall for his age (I can’t remember how tall now) He is still a Daddy’s boy, he is his best friend.

Easton can swing a bat like no other 2 year old I’ve ever seen. He says “swwwwiiiinnngggg) and than hits it right off the tee. He also has a pretty good arm-His Dr. was impressed that he could throw with both hands already. This is my blog, so I can brag if I want to. :)

He has started a Montessori Pre-school on Tuesday and Thursdays.. He goes from 8am to 12:15. He LOVES it…now! Not so much at first, I cried, he cried, daddy cried, the teacher may have cried –it was rough, then he was very sick for a week and it all started over-But now he LOVES it!

He loves his friends, his back pack, his lunch box, and French class the most they say! He can hardly speak English, but hey, whatever. He walks in to his class with his Daddy, and tells him bye, no tears, and is all happy to go! He is so big! We are so blessed he is getting this opportunity to learn, and be around other kids in such a wonderful setting!

Easton is still the entertainment of our family. He loves to talk on the phone to his Daddy or to his Pops (his grandpa). He calls all his friends “the guys” and his favorite girl is “Lilah” whom he can say Very clearly! He also knows if we are near her house- There is already a small problem there because both boys love Lilah and she can’t decide whom she wants to play with Grayson or Easton!

So check out his pictures, our friend did an amazing job on them. You’d never know that he literally cried the entire time we were trying to take those pictures! He was WAY less than cooperative-but my what a great job she did! Isn’t he cute? Yes, i think so too.

And I’ll show you the Birthday party soon, it was a little much, I’m still recovering…

Sweet, Sweet, Baby Boy

2010-09-29T22:22:00.001-04:00

Our sweet babe is now 7 months old! These were his 6 month old pictures. Isn’t he a doll?

Grayson weighs 17 lbs and was pretty long at his last apt, I can’t remember exactly. He wears size 2/3 diapers, is a great sleeper/napper, and loves veggie baby food-not too found of the fruit – who knows what that is about? He is a little lazy, he sits up, but would rather lean on somebody. Grayson is already BFF’s with his big bro. Now that he plays more they are so cute to watch together. He laughs hysterically at his daddy, just like Easton did. Grayson is laid back-nothing bothers him, he has Jay’s personality, but he is still Mama’s baby!

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a sneak peek...

2010-08-30T14:00:00.000-04:00

My baby is 6 months old! I know every mother thinks this, but really it goes so fast. Just hard to believe that he is not my little newborn bundle anymore. Grayson is a lot like his brother! He is REALLY enjoying solid food, and just like Easton, he LOVES plain rice cereal the best. He is rolling all over the place, and has an interesting back crawl! He has does it so much that he has a new bald spot from rubbing on the carpet. He laughs and babbles all the time. Easton is still his favorite thing to look at, but as life would have it, daddy is a close 2nd...mama is just not as cool anymore. These are a few shots from his 6 mo photo session-I'll show you the rest when I get them. We are so thankful that our Daddy is here with us, and has gotten to be here for the first few years of his boys life. We know that at some point that will not be the case again. We can't imagine our family without this little lump of love! We love our little Grayson Bradley!

Markers and Mud has the holiday spirit!

2010-08-19T00:25:00.001-04:00

Michigan friends, jump on over to Markers & Mud and get your family holiday session booked!

a little surprise

2010-08-07T18:56:00.000-04:00

Well, I could be telling you all about...

my ALMOST 2 year old, who is talking our ears off! He says Yes Mama and No Sir, Hey you, Come on!, Oh no! and my favorite...Yes-SIR-EE-BOB-A-ROONEY! don't ask, remember, I'm not really telling you...

or tell you about my ALMOST 6 month old...who is rolling all over the house! He too is talking in his baby way, and still has a smile to melt your heart. I won't tell you that he sleeps like an angel from 7-7 and takes two pretty perfect naps during the day, or that he is totally in love with his big brother already...too bad I'm not telling you.

or how my husband saves me over and over everyday. How he tolerates me and guides me. How when I'm broken he mends me and when I'm sad he gives me HIS joy...I know too gushy-good thing you don't have to hear it.

INSTEAD I'm here real quick to pop in and tell you that I've started a little something....

Check it out-
Markers & Mud

and don't worry-I'll be back to tell you more about all that other stuff as soon as I can!

Thanks! I picked one…or two…

2010-07-09T15:08:00.001-04:00

Well you guys were on it! Thanks! I don’t have a cool or even a “not so cool” prize for you or anything, but I was just gathering opinions. I appreciate you sharing yours!

I am however, a little surprised by your overwhelming choices! Everybody here and on my FB selected the same one! Granted I only heard from 11 or 12 people, but I thought that was kind of crazy! And it was not my first pick…so, good thing I asked huh?

I do think I showed you WAY too many options…to really see each photo and what was done to it you need to look at the SOC (straight out of camera) shot and then the photo with the “special look”…so maybe I overwhelmed ya a bit…

okay so here is what YOU ALL aka Y’ALL picked…

the Magic Glasses treatment…a goody, I do like this. Very bright and crisp…

here is the one I LOVE…

the Troy, and NO for those of you that are in the “know”…I can pronounce Troy (if done so slowly and with caution) and it is not near as traumatic as when I slip and try to say Roy, (which hasn’t happened in years though, the embarrassment keeps me on my toes)…but anyway back to the photos.

So, I just love this photo…

2 of my 3 best guys are in this photo, I could look at their sweet faces all day long

This place. Our special little piece of perfection. The rain is sweeter, the fish bite better, the deer are easier to spot…Some of my fondest childhood memories are right there in that place, and on this trip, my boys got to be there too!

Easton actually rode on that 4wheeler before he was born (yikes, i was at the super beginning of our pregnancy with him-don’t go crazy)

It filled my heart to see both my Granny and my Mema, hold and kiss and love on my babies. I’ve never been this far from them, or gone this long with out seeing them…

And so, even though YOU might not can see all those things in THIS photo…I do. And I really love it!

A little help please…

2010-07-08T14:24:00.001-04:00

“straight of the camera” pic black & white lux magic glass ninja sun kissed super happy troy

which one is your favorite?

Have I mentioned that I’m in LOVE with Photoshop CS5, download the trial and try it…you’ll love it!

I know which one is my fav, but I want to hear from YOU!

Oh and the handsome guys…they are all mine, I’m in LOVE with them too!

Happy 4th of July!

2010-07-02T07:47:00.001-04:00

And I’m proud to be an American where at least I know

I’m FREE!

Hope you enjoy your celebrations, I plan on spending the long weekend with my two sweet babes, and my American hero!

3 months old…a month ago!

2010-06-29T19:52:00.001-04:00

our sweet babe, Grayson Bradley for his 3 month old pose… just pretend the cute blocks are there…for his mama forgot those!

He is always happy like this, really he is. He is laughing out loud like crazy and babbles all the time. He eats and sleeps like a champ…since this is a month late, I’ll tell you what he’s up to now soon!

Summer Time

2010-06-29T18:35:00.001-04:00

Well, I seem to have found a little time to blog! Thanks for you guys that said you still wanted to “keep up” with us! I’ll keep doing what I can- we now have Windows 7 and it is SUPER COOL-there are easy ways to get my photos on here, and it seems to be just as good a place as any to upload them…so here are a few!

Bye-bye Blog?

2010-06-22T09:59:00.001-04:00

I’m not sure about the life of the blog…I’m thinking I have MORE to do, a few MORE important things. I want to be able to show you pictures of our family, you do want to see them right?

For now, I’m just going to think about it…I do have a few fantastic pictures to show you…

Grayson is 4 months old in a couple of days! He is rolling over, laughing, and loves to babble! He is the sparkle in our family of four.

Easton is talking up a storm, as well as learning new “skills” daily, i.e. how to do a forward roll…He is 100% all boy, the mud, water, and exploration prove it daily! He is definitely the laughter in our family.

Jay and I both had birthday’s, however, 2 babies under 2 years old will keep you young! We just took a two week vacation to Texas and we have lots of pictures…the boys with both their great grandmothers on my side, both of which neither had ever met before, pics at the ranch, our first camping trip, and of course with their Grammy and Pops…

I’ll load those up shortly, as they are on the other computer at the moment…

But as for not blogging…my priorities are the same…just think I need to “give them a tune up”…

GOD-prayer with intent, study, teaching

Wife-put quality time into my marriage, it is often hard to find any “extra” time to spoil my amazing husband, but I truly want him to be my #1 here on earth!

Mother-This is where most my times goes, but I want to focus more on teaching them, experiencing the world with them…this is challenging with them so close together and so young, but I taught special ed for 5 years and we braved A LOT, I’m sure I can figure this out too.

So as you see, this is my mission field for the moment. My family. My best friend and I talk about this a lot. I’m just not sure that I have time to “internet” at all…just a thought. Email me your email address (its under my contact info, in my profile) so I can keep you in the loop for pictures…if you want to.

Otherwise, I may or may not be blogging…I’ll let you know-and I’ll show the pics I have shortly…but after that, we will have to see.

“To be still and know that Your in this place, to listen and feel Your love and Your grace, All that I need is to be with You, Please let me stay and rest in Your holiness…”

a big birthday boy...

2010-05-26T12:43:00.002-04:00

This Birthday was for my best guy! The hubby turned 3-0! He said it wasn't a big deal, because he had everything he ever wanted! Yup, he's sweet like that. Anyway, I did the unthinkable! I pulled off a surprise party for him-a surprise that I actually kept a secret! I know, shocking.

My sister and I used to go shopping for Christmas, wrap the gifts, immediately give it to each other, Re-wrap them and then put them under the tree! I also have been known to throw "surprise showers" and then tell the honoree! But this time...I did it!

It went perfectly...Jay woke up to pancakes and a gift from his boys! 18 holes of golf with a friend...so off he went and we got busy! Cake, Decorations, balloons, food...it all went exactly as planned! Lots of friends came and we were all ready for him! He made it home at exactly the right time! He was surprised and we all enjoyed a great celebration for a great guy-who is truly loved!

I was very thankful that he had a great Birthday, it is nice to be the "special one" every now and then-He is the one that always takes care of us!

Sorry about the photos...I'm not doing too well with two babies and taking pictures...I hope that gets better soon!

growing, growing...stop!

2010-05-24T20:24:00.002-04:00

Our sweet babe, Grayson is growing faster than I can keep up with. As evidenced by the fact that I am writing this post with a "2 month" picture the day before he is officially 3 months old!
It is that busy here! Grayson loves everybody! He smiles all the time, and is beginning to laugh out loud! He loves to hear his brother and his daddy's voices. But truth be told, he is a Mama's boy, right now at least!

Our trip to Holland (Michigan)!

2010-05-24T18:42:00.000-04:00

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a Makeover!

2010-05-14T13:58:00.002-04:00

Well, I wish I could say that I have had a "makeover", but nope...just the blog! Cute eh? ( I said, "eh" because that's how "we" do it up here in Michigan) I've been playing a lot with my new Photoshop (my previous version was not as fun)! As well as my new laptop, that my hubby got me! But before I discovered that I really can do all these things, that other people are doing...I had my blog spruced up! In a post to come, I am going to share with you ALL my super crafty friends and their talents-and where you too can get your hands, or computer, on so much fantastic stuff! Till then-just enjoy my new look, maybe soon, I can get a makeover as well!

sweetness is...

2010-04-23T14:32:00.003-04:00

Easton has done so well with his new baby "bruder"! He asks for him first thing when he wakes up, every morning, and he tells him "ni-nite" every evening before bed. He only wants to hold him every now and then, but he lays with him and talks to him all the time. Grayson gets a lot of kisses from his big brother, sometimes its more like Easton "licking" him! Ha-but sweet anyway...And the little pic of Grayson's perfect frown? Well, I love that little sad face, I have to say it is the sweetest sad face I've ever seen, he is always happy and content, unless he is ready for a nap or hungry, and the face is priceless!

A New Love!

2010-04-22T10:26:00.004-04:00

There is no other love like the love FOR a brother...

There is no other love like the love FROM a brother.

-Astrid Aluda

I'm a big boy now!

2010-04-21T14:10:00.010-04:00

These were Easton's 18 month pictures! Grayson was only a few weeks old, it was mid-March so we had planned for outside photos...and then we remembered it was Michigan-and it Snowed on this day, so we went to the museum! But these turned out great-they really show his personality, which he seems to have a lot of! We are usually at the beach in Alabama the week of his 1/2 birthday...this year we got him a baby brother for his 1/2 birthday-and an Elmo cake! We just love this boy!

Meet Grayson

2010-03-31T18:05:00.006-04:00

I know, He IS perfection!

Kovics...Party of 4

2010-03-10T13:59:00.003-05:00

Our beautiful Grayson Bradley is HERE! A week early, but perfect in every way! We are all adjusting and its taking all we have...SO blogging will probley not be high on the to do list for a while...If you Facebook-find Jay or I and we can show you all the pics of our very handsome family! Hope to be back soon!

But if you truly can't wait...my friend, who is a professional photography here in GR, did Grayson's newborn shoot...here is a sneak peak over at her blog New Song Photograpy! You might even see a cute Easton on her title bar!

Easton's New room

2010-02-20T09:47:00.000-05:00

Easton has moved out of the nursery and across the hall to what was our room...He is still in his crib (we hope that he stays put in there for awhile longer)! We had our friend Haley make all his bedding! You too can get her to make you something fancy or sweet! Just check her out over at Star Spangled Babies!
She made the quilt and the curtains! We have also been on the receiving end of lots of other goodies, bags, lovies, car seat blankets, burp cloths, diaper bags...SO MUCH cool stuff! Get yourself something!

Okay-So here is Easton's quilt!

Oh and there is Easton-He is all about the camera!

These are his curtains!

His night light that I made out of the same fabric, and his chair w/ ottoman-He LOVES this!

This was his mobile when he was a baby...

A Look at his decor...

His closet, which proves he got WAY too much for Christmas!

This was my shelf since about jr. high- I LOVE it and I've never been able to find another like it...I gave it to E...This was with him in his nursery...He already has lots of collections!

His name and bookshelf all from his nursery-the lamp I made from the same fabric...

Well there you have it-a little peek into Easton's Space! I don't think these pictures do it justice really-It is a super cute room!

Thats what Grandparents are for...

2010-02-19T08:55:00.004-05:00

Grammy and Pops try to come up from Texas as much as they possibly can...and when they do...somebody gets a little spoiled! It used to be me, then I was replaced by my hubby, Jay...now Easton is hands down the favorite of the group...even his unborn brother is getting quite a bit of attention!
Jay spent weeks getting Easton to say, "Pops"! And it worked...while I was in the hospital, a few weeks back, my dad "Pops" came up to help us-every morning Easton would wait for him to come up the stairs...after he left-he would stand at the top of the stairs and say "Pops?" Awww, it was so sweet!
He doesn't say Grammy just yet, but he knows very well who lets him play on the Nintendo DS...and who gives him a drink of Diet Dr. Pepper, and the occasional bite of ice cream!

Family is something I have always known, never had to wonder about our relationship. I didn't know how blessed I truly was. I'm so thankful that they fell in love with my Jay and our Easton and Grayson - right along with me!

God gave us family for so many reasons, I'm beyond blessed with ALL of mine!

No time...

2010-02-16T12:43:00.005-05:00

That is just a little taste of why I'm SOOOO far behind...Children's Museum, toys, learning to feed oneself, messy, playing, running...

EASTON! In one word, that is why I seem to not have time to blog, scrapbook, be crafty...but how cute is he?-my days have never been more fun!

Christmas Past...

2010-02-09T15:04:00.005-05:00

Ok, so we were at Halloween and now look here, its a Christmas post, and its actually February...I know this-but...I could give you ALL the excuses OR I could just show you one of the best things about our Christmas Season...Don't worry, another post is coming with ALL the excuses...

Till then...enjoy this little guy!

It was by far, the BEST Christmas I can remember, and I've had good ones...Christmas growing up was always special, the Christmas Jay came home from Iraq and we spend Christmas in shorts in Saint Lucia-that was on top of the list...but THIS year...

Easton did not disappoint! He was happy, excited, cuddly and just the true meaning of JOY! He was so much fun to watch, his little face really did light up, we don't even have great photos or video because nobody wanted to stop to take them, we were just amazed at him! I did manage to snap a few...so here we go- Oh and just as a warning this is right when he decided that he really did LOVE the camera, and when you pointed it at him, it was a HUGE toothy stretched out smile from ear to ear-with a giant CHEEEEEZE screaming out at you....just so you get the full effect!... ENJOY-

Along came a SPIDER...

2010-01-13T19:18:00.002-05:00

Easton's first time to participate in the Halloween fun! Last year, his 1st Halloween, we left Texas, on a REALLY long road trip to Michigan... This was much more fun. His costume was a gift from his Aunt Staci-He loved it! We only went to a few neighbors homes that we know, and then we passed out candy at our house...Easton had NO interest in the candy, but he LOVED all the kids and walking around free! It was COLD, but we had a really FUN time!

Family in Fall

2010-01-08T11:02:00.007-05:00

We had our family pictures done this Fall. Most of you have seen them in the card we sent out...here are the rest that didn't make the card...Easton was a total camera ham...he was on the move the whole time! And Yes, it was colder than we had expected. Staci and Mark were visiting so we were able to get a shot with all of us!

As you can see, our little Easton is NOT afraid of the camera-and the Fall was beautiful!

Fall in Michigan

2010-01-07T20:00:00.000-05:00

We marked our first year of this assignment as done, and have now officially seen all 4 seasons! It is not a myth, they really do ALL exist! Fall was a little colder than I had imagined, but the leaves and colors did not disappoint! I took these photos on a little road Jay and I drive down when we are bored or just cruising around... I REALLY did take these, at first we thought they were the ones auto saved on your computer -but seriously Fall does exist!

Where have I been?

2010-01-07T14:59:00.006-05:00

Well its been a little while since I've posted...I'm not sure we have been that busy-more like I've been that tired! Easton is just bursting with energy and our unborn, Grayson, is using up all of mine! However, we did have a very fun fall season- so I'll just show you the pics to prove it!

Daddy and Uncle Mark ran the Grand Rapids Marathon in early October, the first Cold blast of the season...I think it was about 21 when they ran! It was COLD...Mark got his qualifying time for the Boston Marathon and we all had a great time!

We went to pick apples early October, and it was COLD! Easton had a good time, but these are all the pictures because I was too cold to take my gloves off to use the camera! We did get very yummy apples, we even still have a few- Jonnagold are our new favs!

"...my cup runneth over..." Psalm 23:5

2009-11-30T20:14:00.002-05:00

Have YOU been blessed beyond what you ever dreamed of? Become the keeper of the most precious beings you can imagine? Have nothing but, thankfulness fill your heart?

I have...

My world is full of beautiful, perfect gifts from God. My husband who is my best friend, my partner with whom I share all of my life. My 14 month old son Easton, he brings laughter and smiles bigger and deeper than I ever knew was possible.

and now...

Grayson Bradley...our son who will be born March 3, 2010. Named for strength and courage; after our friend who paid the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom.

...my cup runneth over... again and again

Faster than a speeding...

2009-11-16T19:56:00.000-05:00

Riding in fast cars...just want Santa ordered-last year. Our parents gave Jay and Mark "race car rides" for Christmas last year...we just were able to go...Mark and Staci were here for Easton's Birthday and we all went to Michigan Speedway for a really fast ride...fun fun fun!

And Just Like That...

2009-11-10T20:16:00.002-05:00

He smiled at us.

He laughed out loud.

He sat up.

He crawled.

He ate solid food.

He cruised around.

He clapped.

He waved.

He said Da Da and Mama.

He took that first step.

He fed himself.

He walked.

He grew.

He turned ONE.

He changed our lives forever.

Birthday Boy!

2009-10-14T19:47:00.004-04:00

A Birthday fit for a king! We had a wonderful time. Can't believe E's first Birthday has come and gone...Grammy, Pops, Aunt Staci, Uncle Mark all came up for a long weekend! Our friends here came and we had so much fun!

Stuff him in!

2009-10-06T20:00:00.007-04:00

I had been so good at buying Easton's clothes ahead of time...Had everything all organized by size and even season. Then the craziest thing happened...He grew. And grew. I had only planned for him to wear up to 12 month clothes. I had not been buying anything, and really didn't think about it again until this..

He was literally busting out of his clothes! These were his jammies...He couldn't even stand up right because it was so tight around his back, we laughed and took pictures of course, but we did get him something else to sleep in.

So Renee and Grammy saved us with brand new jammies that fit! And I have since began shopping again. I guess he is just going to keep getting bigger. I'm not sure I'm okay with that, but it seems to be happening anyway.

A visit from Grammy

2009-09-30T21:56:00.003-04:00

Grammy, my mama, came to stay with us for a whole 10 days! She was a very busy bee! A worker bee at that! She did Laundry, A LOT of Laundry, cleaned, organized, shopped and babysat. It was super fun! She LOVED the cool days of summer, and REALLY LOVED this guy...

as you can see...He LOVES her too!

Nothing left to say...

2009-09-23T21:34:00.003-04:00

Our home has been super busy, maybe even out of control...in a good way but crazy none the less...Jay is working super hard, playing softball and knocking out college credits at record speed. Easton is growing rapidly and is literally learning and preforming new tricks daily...I'm way behind on updating here, but I'm way behind on laundry and scrapbooking too so no surprise there...I do however have a lot to tell you, I just run out of words by the end of the day...But, there are profound words of wisdom that flow through our home daily...here take a look-

"Easton, We don't put noodles in our nose"

"Easton, don't climb up the curtains"

"The toilet paper is NOT a snack"

"Really Easton noodles do not go there"

"Please don't put the remote in your diaper"

"Ok put the remote wherever, just leave your diaper on!"

"Seriously Easton NO NOODLES UP THE NOSE""

"Paper is not for eating"

"The water is best kept inside the bathtub"

"Ok fine Easton, the noodle up your nose is a cool trick, you win"

See, after my days of truly profound words of wisdom, there is just nothing left to say!

A little homesick...

2009-08-24T20:44:00.003-04:00

Our first Army Company Organization Day as a Recruiting Family. It was strange to not be burning up hot but it was a pretty good time. It is so different being here away from a post. It has been a more difficult transition than J or I thought. We miss the Army! There are a lot of blessings here in MI and we are thankful for every single one of them. We both just miss our family-thank goodness they will be here in a few weeks to see us! We miss our friends as well. We are a long way from home and we are looking forward to what the future holds for us...but for now we will take the fantastic weather and well as you can see...our little guy...he is happy anywhere!

Our trip to Holland!

2009-08-23T19:58:00.004-04:00

A very silly J...

A super cute E

E's first time on the carousel!

Me taking a pic...not sure what this photo is about! :)

E is loving it!

Ok so it was Holland, MI but it was still fun! A little chilly for mid-August but we had a good time.

Mashed, Smashed and Smeared

2009-08-19T20:20:00.003-04:00

Easton's 1st attempt at feeding himself, with mashed potatoes...

He did manage to make it to his mouth...

But he did find using the spoon to propel them off his highchair to be much more fun...

I mean really, who wouldn't?

Easton's 1st Truck...

2009-08-12T20:53:00.000-04:00

A small little truck, for a super big boy!

This is what grass should look like!

2009-08-11T20:38:00.005-04:00

For all you friends in Texas whose grass is burned up...this is what it looks like with cool 75-80 degree summers...oh and with Rain...(that is the precipitation that comes from the sky...West TX friends, you know nothing of this...I'm sorry

Oh and the cute little guy-well he thinks the grass tastes pretty good too...

even I can't "keep up" with us!

2009-08-09T20:37:00.003-04:00

Okay, so I know its been awhile...and "Thank You" to ALL of you who have reminded me that I am being, "lazy", "boring" and just plain "mean"- by not updating more often! :) I will try to do better, I am super excited that you READ this, I'm sure it's my clever whit and my sweet charm that comes across as I write such fascinating things...I KNOW it has NOTHING to do with this super cutie pie..

I know, he's a keeper, I love him to bits!

I'll be back soon, really, I have SO much to tell you!

Gym with dad

2009-07-01T13:31:00.005-04:00

Easton and I have been going to Gymboree Class since around Christmas-He has now been moved up to the 10-15 month Level 3 class...We were having a hard time keeping him from moving around in his 6-9 month old class...This class is in the evenings, and Easton gets to go with his daddy while I go workout...But I couldn't miss his first class-and I took photos just for you!

Daddy knows best

2009-06-23T22:04:00.003-04:00

J's first fathers day...we tried to make special, a few gifts, yummy lunch and lots of love from his boy...

J took to fatherhood like it was what he was born to do...from the first moment we knew we were pregnant...he was a father, he is amazing and well all these things too...

loving and fun

gentle and strong

smart and disciplined

balanced and indulging

Godly and obedient

adventurous and cautious

tender and firm

forgiving and thankful

J loves his son with his whole being (the way he loves me too). He is the role model that you want for your children.

He reminds me of my Dad. He is who showed me what to look for in my mate, who to desire for my partner in this life, who to share the blessed responsibility of raising Godly children with...My dad is this to me, the Christian example, the head of his home, loving to my mother...

and I am forever blessed to have married the man who is, like my father to me, going to love our children in that same way.

I love you honey!

And Dad...I love YOU too!

Oh So Yummy

2009-06-12T20:28:00.014-04:00

You don't have a plan for dinner tonight? Lucky for you, I'll share!

Summer Shrimp Pasta Salad (I just made that up, so feel free to call it what you like)

First, take some veggies and roast them in your oven with olive oil, sea salt and black pepper

I used zucchini, yellow squash, onion and grape tomatoes

Fix your whole wheat small pasta

Saute your shrimp in a bit of EVOO, sprinkle with Cajun Seasoning to taste (love me some Tony Chatere's)

Chop fresh basil and grate some fresh parmigiana-

Mix it all together...and voila!

Feed your hubby...YUM He likes it!

He didn't like this picture, Sorry Babe!

ENJOY-Trust me its good, and oh so healthy!

We have hair!

2009-06-11T22:48:00.000-04:00

Easton was a bit of a baldy if you remember...and then his hair was kinda like a chia pet...remember?

but look here...WE HAVE HAIR...and I spiked it up in a Mohawk!

Me and MY BABY

2009-06-11T06:00:00.002-04:00

I am 100%, totally, madly, deeply in love with THIS 19 pounds of perfection

...

I know, Who could resist?

If your Happy and you know it...

2009-06-10T15:57:00.003-04:00

Then your face will surely show it!

Take me out to the ballgame...again

2009-06-08T18:00:00.001-04:00

Easton went to his 2nd baseball game this season...at Minute Maid Park...The Juice Box...Home of the Houston Astros!

We were a little taken back by the HEAT and HUMIDITY!

We were super excited to sing..."Deep in the heart of Texas" during the 7th Inning Stretch

E had SO much fun...he pooped out mid game for a little nap

E sure does love his Pops!

E sat in Grammies lap and charmed the folks behind us...They even took pictures of our little social bug!

We had a GREAT time...Thanks Grammie and Pops! (Excuse the spit up on my shirt)

My Birthday Boy...

2009-06-08T15:07:00.003-04:00

I found a man who is loving and kind...

Who puts his son and I infront of himself EVERY time...

Who loves us with all his heart...

We love him right back! And on HIS day...

We had our favorite man a birthday party in Texas, complete with gifts, steak, cake and a baseball game...He loved it!

He is still my baby...

2009-06-03T14:34:00.003-04:00

He gets to where he wants to go on his own...

He doesn't want me to spoon feed him anymore...

He is gradually weaning himself from breastfeeding...

He explores and plays alone, he doesn't need me to entertain him as much...

He likes to face "out" in the stroller, no longer wants to be facing me...

He would rather ride on daddy's back for a better view, than so close to me in his baby sling...

but...

He is STILL my baby and I love every moment of his life.

On the Move

2009-06-02T09:35:00.000-04:00

I can crawl...

I wonder if I can get on that?

Hmm...I can get over here.

Look Mama I can stand up!

Where did my BABY go? It wasn't enough that he was sitting alone, then he started crawling, then pulling up, now he stands holding onto 1 finger...He is against all things pureed and prefers..."real food" in bite size portions...Oh this is all too fast.

Leaving on a jet plane...

2009-06-01T15:28:00.005-04:00

Easton is racking up quite a few frequent flyer miles! He went on his 2nd plane ride to Texas over Memorial Day. I was a brave Mama and we went by ourselves down to Houston on Wed and J joined us on Friday. We were able to make it in time for my mom's retirement party. E is a very good little traveler. He likes to sleep during take off and landing, and is wide awake trying to talk to everybody during the middle! As long as the flight attendant gives him a cup- He is happy! There was only one small bump in our traveling alone...Her name was Security Officer Maggy- She felt that I "made suspicious movements" while going through security.

Yes, I did. I was being very suspicious, threatening and dangerous.

It must have been my ability to get the stroller off the moving belt, grab the diaper bag, attempt to stop my flip flops from flopping off the roller belt, and answer HER questions all with a baby on my hip at 4 AM...that was shockingly suspicious...Yes Maggie, a Mama traveling alone before 5AM WITHOUT a Dr. Pepper - should be FEARED.

Your choice to, pat me down, front to back, top to bottom (at your own risk, I did warn you that I was breastfeeding and could not be held responsible for any leaking), your requiring me to use one hand to open ALL the containers of water, your choice to yell at me for asking for clarification AND for you then to want to hand me back all the contents of my diaper bag for me to put back in myself (Yes Maggie, I do have an extra hand, let me put down the kid, bottle and let the stroller roll down the ramp-and I"ll grab that stuff)...You were completely justified!

Maggie-May my Dr. Pepper be a large and your coffee be stronger the next time I go through your security line!

But Hey WE made it!

Baseball Baby!

2009-05-31T21:53:00.005-04:00

Our first baseball game of the season...Cleveland Indians (J's FAV) and our new "home team" Detroit Tigers played in Detroit and we took a road trip! We went with our friends from church...It was SO much fun. This was the first road trip in the new van. We got 4 adults, 2 infant car seats, 1 toddler car seat and a 12 year old all safely buckled and the best part was...Everybody had cup holders!

Inmate # 09-19-08

2009-05-28T15:00:00.000-04:00

When Easton learned to get himself into the sitting position-

It created a whole new level of crib excitement..

"Let me outta this jail" "Somebody???"

C is for Cookie

2009-05-28T10:53:00.000-04:00

This really does not need any words...a good cleaning but no words!

In 3-2-1...Action

2009-05-27T22:16:00.003-04:00

Okay, so REALLY- I live...

We are in full swing and out of our winter hibernation here in the Great Lakes...and man have we been busy.

I'm going to go back to where I left off...So hang in there...and I hope you didn't leave or think I forgot you...

The 1000 HIT winner was...

My fantastic sister-in-law...Kim. And I hope she is enjoying her hand-made cookbook any day now.

I also wanted to update you on the Weight/Medical situation...The Nero-opthamologist said all is good with the eyes...No fluid built up since my pregnancy scan was taken...So that is GREAT! I have apts. with Neurologist and Neurosurgeon in June. I am still fighting the baby weight, and everyday I make a decision about what I am going to eat and drink...More often than not it is good decisions...However our little vacation was an exception. We are still on track for the 5K in October...More about all that later.

Keep on Keeping up with us...I've got A LOT to tell you about!

Texas Boy

2009-05-04T14:36:00.003-04:00

So we were making invitations for my parents Memorial Day BBQ and we thought no better way to increase the "cute" factor than to add a picture of...Yes, you guessed it...the little Texan, who is currently misplaced in Michigan...
He is very excited to go "home"...He can't wait to see his first Astro's game, and he thinks he will be having some Texas BBQ and Tex-Mex...Mama's not sure about that!
I'm not sure if E is as excited as his daddy to go on our mini-vaca or if either of them is as excited as Pops to have E come see him! Either way, I see good food, family and Astro's baseball in our near future! Can't wait!

I'm still here...buzz buzz buzz

2009-04-30T19:19:00.003-04:00

I've been a busy little bee...It seems that I may have "over scheduled" myself a bit...
I had NO idea that you were waiting to read my words...Thank you for checking on me, for wanting to know about Weigh-In Wednesday and for making sure the Kovic's Were Keeping Up themselves!

A little "blog" keeping-

* We made it to 1000 hits, and quickly went past...There is a winner, there is a picture, and there is a prize! I'll get it ALL together ASAP!

* Weigh-In Wednesday - I lost 1.1 lbs...So, I'm at 171.6 Hmm...not the best but, I guess down is better than up right? We ate ok this week, nothing new to share-and we ate out for lunch several times...that is not too good. It rained here ALL week, so the gazelle was the only thing moving...3.0 miles is as far as I've gone...but I don't "almost die" when I'm done with that now! I will be back in time for Weigh-In Wednesday, next week! YOU keep working hard too!

* Vacation...I'm taking a few days off from the computer- TOO much to do!
I have mints to make for 2 weddings, FRG meetings to prepare for, baby bible class to teach, marathon/5K training, sub-division garage sale, baseball game in Detroit this weekend, dish to cook for lunch Sunday at friends, Dr. apts next week...etc etc etc...

SO...The Kovics ARE Keeping Up...BUT we will be busy doing so, and will post about it later!

If you are WAY to sad thinking you won't have anything to read for a whole week...check out my friend's blogs over on my sidebar...THEY are a good read!

Till next time...
Lesli

Marathon Man...and his daddy

2009-04-27T20:42:00.001-04:00

Easton is geared up for his first Marathon in October, along with his Aunt S, Uncle M and Daddy-I will be doing the 5K. Grammy and Pops are coming too-Might they be doing the 5 K?? E is very impressed with his daddy's speed!

Just-A-Swing'N

2009-04-25T08:36:00.000-04:00

Easton got his first swing, and at the first sign of sunshine...Out we went. The boy LOVES everything... Here-See for yourself!

LOOK HERE!! LOOK HERE!!

2009-04-24T20:55:00.000-04:00

Ok-we are nearing the 1000 hit mark!!! Go over, look at "how many are keeping up"- If YOU are the 1000 hit- take a picture for me!!! Email it to me- I WILL send you a prize, I really have one! Seriously I do. Ya'll missed out on the 500th...I know you are reading this, because my counter has hits from, Texas, Missouri, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Virgina, France, Minnesota, New Mexico and even Iraq (shout out to YOU SSG SLATER)...and many other places I can't think of who I know there that could be reading this- I really want the picture for my Scrapbook...which I've been neglecting...but that is for another post...So, come on- Snap that photo!

PS... I did not get too many comments on Weigh-In Wednesday...Just wanted to reassure you that...I am back on track...Don't loose faith- I'm still working here on my end. So, If you were working too...Don't loose faith...We can do this!

PPS...The Dr.'s Visual Field Machine that is needed to check pressure in my eye's...Broken. So, will have to go back next week...

White T-Shirt Contest

2009-04-23T20:23:00.003-04:00

My boy's in their BEST OUTFIT...what is a mama to do???

Weigh-In Wednesday

2009-04-22T12:48:00.002-04:00

What was I thinking for putting this all on here. What where YOU thinking to actually read this.
Man oh man...here it goes.
Prepare yourself, it's not pretty.

My previous weight was 172
My weight on Saturday at Dr. was 168

My weight TODAY... 172.7

Yes, that is right. depending on how you look at it, I either gained almost 1 lb OR I GAINED 4 lbs.

The Blame Game...
We were SICK, hence the loosing of 4 lbs, Then the Pharmacist of all people actually said to me..."Drink some Pop" (my southern friends, that is soda/coke)...I said huh? He went on to explain that the sugar syrup helps settle your stomach. SO...I mean HE said too. That led us down a slippery slope...A slope where I fell down it and landed at the bottom of.

Then because of the "SICK", I DID NOT exercise. At all. Nada. We went for 1 walk.

Then the best thing of all...I REALLY had the thoughts of..."Well, I've been up all night, no sleep, I feel terrible, I'm scrubbing puke, changing sheets every 2 hours...I DESERVE a soda/cookie/fast food!" WHAT kind of crazy thinking is that?
Well, It's my thinking, always has been.

But...Here is why it's going to be ok.

I FEEL terrible. Not working out, I could tell. I didn't sleep good, I ate junk, I kinda sorta missed it...Gasp!

And-because it is PAINFUL to have to admit all this to each of you. Talk about being held accountable...
I was SOOOO encouraged last week. Your words and your own dedication...You don't know how good that felt. I was proud and ready to go. I felt strong and motivated.

I am back on track. I will get to the point where a little set back doesn't completely rock my world. I will loose this weight.

This weeks goals...

Gazelle 3.5 miles
Outside Jog 1 mile
3 Dr. Pepper's from today until next Wednesday
Meal plan- back on track

I did sign up for Weight Watchers- Thanks Jamie! I'm going to do their nursing program, after beings so dehydrated, baby E and I are having to work to get our supply built back up-and I have to be carefully not to mess all that up. At the Dr., they warned me that dropping 3 or 4 lbs like that, even being sick, will diminish my milk supply and Easton will not be getting enough calories...SO, TMI??? Sorry... Anyway, WW has a good plan!

Ok guy's...No looking back, it was a bummer week, but today is a new one-and I've done well so far! Good Luck to you!
(Dr. apt tomorrow-will let you know)

Not Me Monday

2009-04-20T20:14:00.003-04:00

Due to the Kovic House Virus of 09, Not Me Monday will not be read today...I have had to spend my day disinfecting and resting from the damage done by this microscopic evil. I'll be back next week...In the mean time- YOU can be glad YOUR - "NOT ME!"

On Another Note...
Please say a prayer for baby Stellan-(click on his picture to the right to read about him)...He is not doing so well, he is in Boston now and going into surgery tonight, a surgery that is NOT safe to do on a baby his age...Pray for him, his parents and the Dr.'s...Pray that God's will is done-After all, HE is the Great Physician!

CAUTION: This post contains HAZARDOUS information!

2009-04-18T19:39:00.004-04:00

I am officially a Mother...
Yes I know, I gave birth, I am nursing my child, I've been raising him, I take care of my family...But somewhere around 3:30 am on Friday...I BECAME a MOTHER...Here is how I know...
Wednesday...Baby bug begins vomiting and having diarrhea-OH NO, call Dr. could have RotoVirus (of which he has been vaccinated for)

Thursday afternoon...I begin having potty issues as well, and start running fever, Call J-He is on his way home. Baby bug still sick-but not vomiting anymore.

Thursday about 10:30 pm...J wakes me up getting into bed saying, I'm sick (he is having a bit of a potty problem also)

Then at 3:30 am...I have 102.5 fever, Easton is exploding from his hiney and needs to be held to sleep, J is VIOLENTLY vomiting (amongst other things) in the bathroom...

I had a moment where I said, Oh man I WANT MY MAMA!...Then I said a prayer-Maybe a prayer that YOU Mother's have also prayed...Lord, please either put my mom and dad on a plane and have them here ASAP OR make me feel better to take care of them!

So, at 3:30am on Friday- I knew that I was the one who had to love on baby bug until he could sleep, and change his bum every hour as needed. I was the one who had to peel J up off the floor, and get his fever of 103 down. I was the one who had to somehow put our bathroom back together (the only thing that was not traumatized in all this was the clock).

It was me...Yes MY mom and dad would have been here in a second if I'd have called them...But, I was the Mama...It's up to me. And suddenly the Tylenol worked, or at least I thought it did and I got them all taken care of. It's been a long couple of days, but we lived.
And there is an upside to Rotovirus...At the Dr.'s office (we all went :), I weighed...168 lbs!! WHOOP!!! But I don't recommend loosing a few this way- My poor bathroom will NEVER be the same!

Weigh-In Wednesday

2009-04-15T10:34:00.003-04:00

My previous weight was...174.8

My current weight is...172.0

Total weight loss...2.8 lbs

Try to use your Allison Sweeny voice from the Biggest Looser when you say that...it sounds cool!

YEA! I think that is good, right? Since I am still breast feeding our almost 7 month old...I can not cut calories...I've just made sure they are all "good calories"...and I've SERIOUSLY cut Dr. Pepper...Like had to take Tylenol for several days...to get over the headache! Crazy, could have used a detox program.

The best thing is...I have worked out every other day! Which is more than my initial goal. I started at 30 min, moving pretty slow, total of 1.2 miles...But yesterday, I ended with 2.5 miles in 37 min! That is progress for me! Even at my thinnest, most healthy body...I am NOT a worker-outer! But, that is changing.

My husband, sister and brother-in-law are all doing a Marathon together in October. I will be signing up for the 5K!!! I know, I know- close your mouth...Yes, that is what I said...I WILL BE DOING A 5K IN OCTOBER...AND I'M NOT GOING TO WALK IT BABY!!!

So...new goals for this week...

loose 2 lbs
Increase my distance on the Gazelle to 3.5 miles...AND take it outside..."Feet to pavement" as my hubby says...1 mile outside is the Goal this week...

Dr. apt updates to come next week...
I'll also add another "healthy" recipe to my families "menu"...You would like it too?? Sure! I'll share it.
It does feel good to KNOW that I really can workout, that my body really won't shut down and die...even though that is what I think...I am trying to change that first reaction of..."I can't do that"...
I hope you were successful in YOUR goals...Let me hear about you...I'm linking you to another friend who is...working hard to loose her baby weight and get healthy too...You can read her super journey here. Join us!!!
Good luck to YOU!

As requested...

2009-04-14T08:00:00.001-04:00

Some of you have asked me to share my "new found" recipes for our family's "healthy living menu" (dare I say diet)...SO here is a goody to add to YOUR menu!

Chicken and Chickpea Chili (from Weight Watchers Complete Cookbook)

4 tsp olive oil

1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped

1 green bell pepper, seeded and chopped

1 yellow bell pepper, seeded and chopped

1 red onion, chopped

1 lb ground chicken

1 TBS flour

1TBS chili powder

1 TBS ground cumin

1 tsp unsweetened cocoa powder

1/8 tsp cayenne

3 (14 1/2 ounce) cans crushed tomatoes

2 TBS balsamic vinegar

1 can chickpeas, rinsed and drained

Saute bell peppers and onion. And chicken; break apart and cook until no longer pink, 5-7 min.

Sprinkle with flour, chili powder, cumin, cocoa powder and cayenne; cook stirring constantly for 1 min. Add tomatoes and vinegar; bring to boil. Reduce heat and simmer, until think, 45 min to hour. Stir in chickpeas; simmer until heated through, about 5 min.

Serve over whole grain brown rice.

Per serving (1 1/2 cups)

377 cal 16g fat 6g fiber 25 g Protein

This was so hearty and really yummy! Maybe the combo of odd ingredients? You should try it...it is now a favorite of ours!

Not Me Monday

2009-04-13T15:07:00.007-04:00

Well...it appears our week was a bit..."lacking"in things to share-hmmm what to talk about???

Baby food bragging...I may have "spoke to soon" with regards to making my own baby food...I know you can't believe it...Not Me! I may have seen the "convenience" in the handy individual, pre-made, store version...I may have started to see it on Spring Break...that may have continued to the present day...This might have resulted in many purchases of store bought baby food...There are so many flavors, some that Easton was not getting when his food came right out of my kitchen...If I did decide to continue buying Easton's food it would be for HIS OWN good...to explore new flavors that I can't/won't combine with fresh ingredients myself...It would have NOTHING to do with the fact that...purred turkey and chicken STINKS! Because I would NEVER think that...Not Me!

Eggstravaganza...Since our baby is only 6 1/2 months old, his daddy and I would NEVER have planned a visit from the big bunny...We would NOT have hid Easter eggs around the house, and taken him to pick them up and put them in a little blue Easter basket...and I certainly would NOT have got it on video...because I KNOW you would NEVER want to watch it...I also was NOT at all bummed that each of those little Easter eggs were EMPTY...I DID NOT expect a Reece's cup or a Robin egg to fall out...I didn't watch as Easton cracked them open...just to make sure...Especially since I was the one who bought the eggs...and walked right pass those yummy treats and said...No way, NOT buying that junk...especially since I shared my current weight with all of you -read about that here. I'm NOT at all missing those Easter treats....Not Me!

J is taking a college Biology class right now, (along with Art Appreciation, which he does NOT appreciate, but that will be another post) Anyway, Biology- J was working on his assignment, he was finished with it and asked me to look at it before he turned it in...I being the Biology major at Tech was happy to oblige. I suggested a few additions, that I knew was RIGHT ON to add...However, when his grade got posted....his professor commented about my additions, and basically, J would have done even better without my suggested add-on info...What??? I being so "easy going", that I of course just said, "oh sorry dear, I must have been mistaken"...I would NEVER had demanded we check this "so-called" professor's credentials, and even though he was a PhD, and even though he spent years researching in the Amazon this particular theory...I would NEVER have deemed HIM and idiot and me...RIGHT ANYWAY!... Not Me!

There you have it...a few things that I would NEVER do, much less tell you all about it...Not Me!

Store-Front Bunny

2009-04-09T21:08:00.006-04:00

Easton was very very excited to see the Easter Bunny! He was smiling and laughing. He wasn't scared at all. Maybe he was thinking the Easter Bunny brings gifts like Santa! It was a very successful outing...no baby meltdowns, no spit-ups, Jay got new running shoes and we found FANTASTIC Mexican food...and I mean good, really really good. We will make it here 3 1/2 more years after all. If only you could see Easton's socks...they have bunnies on them!

the NUMBER'S don't lie...

2009-04-08T07:00:00.007-04:00

My life...by the Numbers...and what to do about it.

5 Neurologists

2 Not So Nice Neurosurgeons

4 Consults from other Med. Center's

7x7x7 Spinal Taps and Blood Patches

5 Surgeries

2 Kidney stones

4 Different seizure meds tried

2 Diuretics

7x7x7 Hospital stays

1 Code blue

2 Central lines

1 Shunt still in place

100 lbs gained and lost

127 What I weighed when I got married

145 What I weighed when My hubby came home from Iraq in 07

154 My starting pregnancy weight 01/08

184 My weight at my last OB apt. 09/08

30 My total pregnancy weight gain

7.15 lb My beautiful son's birth weight

174 My current weight at 6 1/2 months post baby 04/09

2 Number of People who need me to be healthy to take care of them

7x7x7 Number of those Who were there with me while I was sick and took care of me

7x7x7 The number of times I've wondered if it is happening again...

0 The number of times I can go trough being sick again

0 Then number of times I can see my family take care of me that sick again

0 The number of other people who can do this for me.

2 The number of things we know about this...It is correlated with weight gain one way or another and it will kill you

2 The number of really fantastic, perfect fitting, expensive jeans that I could never afford to buy again...That are screaming from my closet..."Remember Me, Let Me Outta Here, Put Me On Again!!"

The Plan by the NUMBERS...

1 The ONLY Number of Dr Pepper's I can have a day

30 Number of min. to exercise 3x week for first 2 weeks (walking w/ stroller does NOT count)

2 Number of pounds I want to loose a week-the Goal, More long term goals later....

3 Number of Dr. apt I now have- to make sure all is OK

7x7x7 Number of prayers I am asking for that I am still healthy and that I will get this under control before I do become sick again- There has been a few things come up.

Obviously, not loosing the baby weight, dropping glasses, slight vision changes, few headaches...All of which could be explained by numerous other things that are going on with my body also...so no need for panic AT ALL...Just need to get a grip on this now.

7x7x7 How many times I thank our God for my family and friends (YOU) for your love, support, and encouragement...I know you are always here for me and always have been. After needing you so much before, that is why I am "going public" with this right now...

You deserve for me to take care of myself...I know I deserve it and my husband deserves it, and my son deserves it...But YOU who took care of me, You deserve it too....

So for all of us...Here we go...

Today is Day Number 1 - We will call this "Weigh-In Wednesday"

I'll post on Wednesdays with the update, and how I did..

Leave a comment, tell me YOUR story, or link me to it, Come on...Let's go on this journey together...

We can still be...Hot Mama's...Yummy Mummy's...and whatever those other goofy things are-that deep down we want to be!

YIKES! Nothing like sharing your weight with the whole world...Wish me luck!

Not Me Monday!

2009-04-06T09:27:00.006-04:00

Well another Monday rolls around...whatever did I NOT do this week?

I would only encourage Easton to "play nice". I would NEVER think it was super funny for him to use his new chompers to bite his daddy...and I certainly would NOT ever take pictures of it! NOT ME!

Everybody knows that a baby's diaper bag should include a few basic items...diapers, wipes-and what? Are you screaming it? A change of clothes???? Oh yes, I ALWAYS have a change of clothes for Easton with us, he is after all a baby and you never know when those diapers will suddenly spring a leak...So I obviously would NEVER find myself at church, with a soaked baby, no extra clothes and it most certainly would NEVER happen on the day we are to take our family picture for the directory...Thank goodness if that had happened-We have friends with a baby about the same age as Easton, whose Mommy DID remember the extra clothes... And this would definitely NOT be the 2nd time this has happened....NOT ME!

We made the cutest Easter/Spring cards on snapfish.com and had them all ready to mail out. I would NEVER use Christmas stamps to mail out Easter cards...and then I would NEVER talk about it on facebook, only to learn that our friend Renee had also used Christmas stamps for her Easter cards, and thought I was making fun of her on facebook! Nobody would use their Christmas stamps for anything but Christmas cards, even if it's April and you had a temporary lapse in memory about how many friends you actually had when you bought the Christmas stamps ...and ended up with WAY TOO MANY! I would NEVER do anything like that. NOT ME!

As the Mama of our kingdom, I ALWAYS do all the dishes/cleaning/cooking- you know all the "womanly things" around here...It would be unheard of for my husband to be cleaning the kitchen AND taking care of the baby...and I would NEVER be playing around with the camera taking pictures...NOT ME!

That's it...all the things I would NEVER have done...With the pictures to prove it! Not Me!

Get your camera ready!

2009-04-02T14:50:00.003-04:00

Ok-See the "How Many are Keeping Up" Counter over on the right sidebar...If YOU are the 500th reader- Take a picture of the counter and email it to me! (get my email off my profile) and I will send you a prize! Not a Fantastic prize, but a Fabulous prize...OKAY???

2009-03-31T19:41:00.003-04:00

My what big teeth you have...

The better to BITE you with!

Click on my picture to see them up close!

Not Me Monday!

2009-03-30T07:59:00.004-04:00

Joining the Not Me Monday Crew...Play along!

Welcome to Not Me! Monday! This blog carnival was created by MckMama. You can head over to her blog to read what she and everyone else have not been doing this week.

(Because of MckMama's sick baby boy-She is not doing this right now-but directions are on her page-Click the Praying for Stellan button on my sidebar-and Keep Praying!)

I wrote a "Not Me...Post", once before-but turned out at that time, I was not ready to "let it all out" -so to speak.

This is where we are shamefully honest in admitting our funny/wacky/somewhat inappropriate things we did this week, as moms/daughters/sisters/friends... But since I, and All of you are Perfect-I'm sure I'll NEVER think of anything to share... Not Me! Are you ready? Can you handle it? Join in on your own, Not Me Monday- Follow MckMama's links above-for directions!

Here it goes...

During an outing this week there were a couple of..."way too loud" kids, they were screaming and running around in places running should not be happening...It was very irritating! And of course being the "well seasoned" parent I am...I would NEVER let it fall out of my mouth..."Easton will NEVER act like that"....Gasp!!! Of course I know better than to say things like that, and I would NEVER be that confident in my parenting skills...so I absolutely did NOT say that...twice. Not Me!

Being organized and always on top of things here in my kingdom we call "home"- I would NEVER have decided that today's breakfast would be cereal...and then forget to tell J, leaving him to think that there was just nothing. Not Me!

I ALWAYS know what Easton needs! :) He has NEVER fussed/cried for almost two hours-with me trying everything I could-and I've never been unable to comfort him...And when all else failed-I would NEVER be "that mom"- who let him watch 2 1/2 hours of Barny and the Backyardagins On-Demand-while gnawing on the remote control...because that is ALL that would make him stop screaming! And after I did NOT let him do all that-He did not moan/grunt while having a little issue in his diaper...Because OF COARSE I KNEW all along that poor baby bug was having a terrible time trying to go poopy and that was his problem...I would NEVER have been clueless to that! Not Me!

We have Gymboree at the same time every week. I would NEVER lay down during Easton's nap time, and fall asleep...and let us over-sleep to the point that we miss Gymboree! Not Me!

So there you have it...the unspeakable truth. Good thing I would NEVER do any of that stuff...Not Me!

Prayer, People and a little Preaching

2009-03-25T13:17:00.005-04:00

This is a somewhat strange post...but it is all I can think about so I thought I would get it out this way...
The TV is full of YUK!! Like I don't watch it until J gets home at night- Well- we do watch Rachel Ray...Easton seems to have a crush on her :) and I let him watch cartoons in the morning while he plays and I fix us all breakfast before J goes off to work....but anyway its mostly YUK.
The news is sad, the economy is bad, the crime is worse...All kinds of terrible, immoral, nasty things that the world is doing can be found on TV- both in the news and on the shows. The world is full of some non-believing YUK!

BUT...There is good in this world, and mostly there is good that is not of this world! Our Lord is still in control-and he wants us to talk to him! There are people who are loving and praying and living every day- we don't even know them all...It is powerful!

I say all that to ask you this...

Will you pray for my Granny? She has had a blood transfusion and surgery last week. She is still in the hospital, my aunt is there now and my mother will be going on Friday to stay until she is able to take care of herself again.

Will you pray for my Mom? It is hard on my mom-being so far away, from everybody. She is trying to finish her last year of teaching, take care of me way up here and now take care of Granny. I need her to know that we are ALL okay...She should do what she needs too...We know she is always there for ALL of us- at all times. She is, and always has been a FANTASTIC mother, sister, daughter and friend- She is the mother that I am trying to be to my son.

Will you pray for this sweet baby and his family- that I have never met. Baby Stellan.There is a link on my sidebar- "Praying for Stellan", where you can read their story. I found them off a friends blog...I was interested in her story because of this little baby- He was sick in utero and then born healthy...She offers photography advice and shares lots of "good finds" and parenting info. She is in the northern Midwest like me and has lots of ideas for the cold...etc. Anyway- Her baby boy- Who is about 4 months old...is extremely ill. Her family has a strong faith in God-
I have been very moved by her story-and have been praying for her son.

The thing that struck me most was...the THOUSANDS of people who are praying for this family. For a baby and a Mama whom they too have NEVER met. There are GOOD people...there are people who are doing the best they can with what they have. People who are open and ready to hear about Jesus and what he has done for us...what he will do for us! The world that God created for us is NOT a terrible, sad, bankrupt, falling apart shell full of violent and mean people.

Yes, there is a lot of that-and the TV will show you it all...BUT there are loving, kind and receptive people that were created in HIS image. God made this BEAUTIFUL place for us to experience and be in awe of...look outside-even here...the birds are singing! The sun is shining! There are children laughing and dogs barking.

Don't for one second be fooled into thinking that this world is out of control. That the stock market is what matters, that illness and death is permanent or that if only things were different it would be better.

The world is in perfect control. Its just not in ours. Money matters least of all...save it, spend less-Look at your possessions, we have way too much. These bodies are on loan-and we should take better care of them. And if you are reading this...then I guarantee you that you have all you ever could need- YOU have people who love you.

So I guess-this is what I mentioned when I first started this blog...its me rambling. But hey- I feel better now!

I want to have a faith that is strong enough to stand up when I am crumbling, I want to get on my knees before I pick up the phone to call for help, I want to LIVE the things I KNOW.

My life is perfect.
I married my best friend, and he will be with me forever, on earth and in heaven.
I have a son, whom I am deeply in love with.
My parents are the most supportive, dependable and loving people I know.
I have a sister-who has been my cheerleader her whole life, whom I adore.
I have friend's, who are there for me no matter what and whenever I need them-that love me though all my faults.
And most of all...I am on the Lord's side. He does not leave me, He is right here with me at ALL times.
And the blessings go on and on in my life...
This is happy. I want to LIVE it, not just KNOW it.

"This world is NOT my home, I'm just passing though..."
But what a wonderful blessing the "passing through" is!

If Spring has sprung...where is it?

2009-03-23T19:51:00.010-04:00

Our family spent last week in Gulf Shores, a tradition we have come to LOVE!! Grammy and Pops, Auntie Staci and Uncle Mark and this year...Bim, Patsy and Sharie! We had a new house this time too-it was super cool, we didn't even wave at the old house (which was just 2 houses down). It was a FANTASTIC time had by all...

The temperature was perfect for us "snow birds" all of 75 degrees most days-and one glorious 80 degree day! We were determined to wear flip-flops both going and coming home- At midnight at the Grand Rapids airport we discovered that was not the best plan- it was 25 and woke up to a light dusting of snow when we got home!

Our little Easton earned his flying wings from the Continental Flight Attendant- I have to brag a bit...I was very nervous about flying with him...but he was SUPER! Everybody-passed by and said, he was so good! He slept in Jay's arms and played in my lap- Such a sweet boy.

Easton would smile at everybody, and most played a long. I do have to tell you- there was a lady on the flight back-whom did not want to smile...at anyone. Easton would not stop staring at her...He finally cracked her- Even the cranky lady couldn't resist his charm.

Easton had the time of his life...which by the way has reached a mile stone...He is 6 months old! We had his 1/2 Birthday-and even though he was a bit too young for cake...we have started the tradition. He has two front teeth that have now broke through his gums! He is sitting on his own and trying to pull up, and he trys with all his might to break out of his car seat! My baby-growing so fast! We go to the Dr. tomorrow for his 6 mo check up and shots- Jay is the shot parent-Bless his heart.

Easton LOVED the water, he just watched the waves and his daddy took him out in it. He was so cute-We had him all sun screened up...He had on SPF 50 baby lotion, and then his surf suit was SPF 55- so we are talking a total UVA protection of 105!!! We all returned to Michigan as white as when we had left.

Here are some pics of our little baby bug-and our Family Vaca at the Beach! It was such a great time...THANKS dad, mom, bim, patsy, mark, staci and sharie...Love you all!

It is good to be home, I like organized chaos and schedules- and I am glad to get back to ours.

I'm soooo ready for it to warm up here- it was disappointing to come back to the cold-but they say Spring will find us here too...I just hope it doesn't get lost!

The Sun WILL come out...

2009-03-10T11:07:00.004-04:00

Should have been a Cowboy...

2009-03-10T10:29:00.005-04:00

Is it true that everything is bigger and better in Texas?
I think you must sometimes leave the Lone Star State to truly KNOW what your missing.

Its Rodeo time in Texas-the Houston Rodeo to be exact. There is nothing like it, the food at the Rodeo is UNREAL! The BBQ Cook-Off is the best that Texas has to offer all in one area! And have you ever had Fried Twinkies? Or Fried Oreo? Or a Fried Snickers Bar? I mean I absolutely have NOT EVER ate any of those said fried things...but if I had-I would tell you...You have not been to the rodeo until you have tasted the snack with the longest shelf life ever...ALL FRIED UP! The Rodeo has Mexican Food and BBQ all in one place-insane! Before you actually get there, it is a must to decide what you will be eating-there is too much to choose from and if you go in without a plan...you are sure to be busting at the seems by the end of the day...There is no way you can eat a giant fajita, BBQ sandwich, Texas sized corn dog, turkey leg and above mentioned fried snack of your choice and live to tell about it- Well it can be done, but my stomach did hurt.

For four years I took my elementary students with special needs to the rodeo-it was super fun. The staff at the Rodeo are some of the best in Texas hospitality and they took great care of my kids. Last year was Jay's first time at the Rodeo- He was impressed but a little fearful of any fried Twinkies! And if you are wondering, Yes it is perfectly normal to breakout that Texas sized belt buckle and shine it up and wear it proudly...even if it says 1994!! Its OK-its a little old, but wear it anyway. There is something about watching a grown man, who is not being forced to, but by his own free will-jump up on a very upset, very large BEAST of a bull and hold on tight! The shopping, the animals, the smells (eewwwee not the smell actually) all such fun! Oh I miss going to the Rodeo.

I've found myself full of pride when I'm asked "where are you from?"...I stand a little taller, and I raise my head a bit and say "I'm from TEXAS!" I find the accent of the people from here a little funny-and I know they feel the same. There is a lady from church who is seriously amused when I say "Jr. high" :)

And Texas is warm and home to the bluebonnets. Texas has fantastic food and wide open spaces. Texas has my parents and most of my great friends. Texas Tech and the Houston Astros are all in Texas...but now Texas is missing the two great loves of my life. So I'll just miss Texas from here, loving on my boys and eating Mexican food (and by Mexican food, yes I mean Taco Bell).

Lysol, Monkeys and Spring- OH MY!

2009-03-06T14:59:00.004-05:00

Well the Kovic Household has been totally disinfected! But, before I admit to completely scrubbing our house down with the strongest "Antibacterial Surface Cleaner" I could find-you should know a few things.
First-Our family has been doing numerous things to...Go Green. We recycle every week. We belong to a Local Farmers Co-Op where we purchase all of our meet, veggies and fruit, flour and dairy-all supporting our local organic farmers. We buy natural soaps and cleaners and wash our clothes in cold water. We have the weird looking "better" light bulbs. We take our re-usable bags shopping with us and Jay takes his lunch to work everyday...We have made a lot of improvements and try to find ways to do better all the time.
So hopefully that counts for something when I say...Our house is now Sterilized! Easton, Jay and I all had what seems to have been the "cold bug". I know, not that big of a deal...but YUK. If Jay tried to "call in sick" for work...they would have just laughed and said-"uh yea, see you in a minute". So he is not allowed to be sick. Easton being sick is just terrible. I felt so bad for him-stuffy little nose, he couldn't breathe-poor baby finally stopped fighting the little "nose sucker thing" because he knew it helped him! Me being sick...NO WAY. I've learned that a home must not ever under any circumstance have a sick Mama- not gonna work.
That's where the Lysol came in...on the door knobs, staircase banister, light switches, tables, chairs, every flat surface in every room, remotes, telephones, microwave and refrigerator handles...Lots and lots of the 99% kill everything cleaner! We will get back to our good for you, you could eat off this, all natural, go green cleaning products next week!

I told you we had to take Easton's bumper pads out of his crib...Well he now has a lot of room in his bed to practice tricks. He might be part Spider Monkey. Jay and I went in to check on him the other night, he was still awake and playing in his bed. When we peeked into the room- we could see arms and legs out the crib... He had wrapped his arms and legs around the slats and was holding on sideways gnawing on the crib! He is so silly. When he nurses now-he does the same. Raises his legs up to wrap them around my arms. He brings so much joy to our lives everyday. He has hit a growth spurt...His long pants are now carpi's and his socks only go 1/2 way up. He is eating solid food three times a day and double the size he ate last week! And he has figured out that when he rolls around he gets to new places- and he is very interested in the handle on the recliner :) Just today, Easton and I went to meet Jay to have lunch and I couldn't even count the people who stopped and talked to him-because he was smiling or laughing at them! He has all the "older ladies" wrapped around his little finger...He seems to have his daddy and I right there too!

Okay so its March in Michigan. Not sure what that will bring but...Tuesday 35 degrees and we were excited, we went outside for a walk around the subdivision. Wednesday 40 degrees and Easton and Emily (a young lady from our church who comes over once a week to play with Easton) and I went for a walk-Easton was very excited that day smiling and babbling the whole time. Thursday-45 degrees and Easton and I went outside with NO jacket!!! But TODAY my friends...it is 59 degrees- that is basically HOT! We have been outside in just regular clothes, we have the fan on in the living room and we are waiting on Jay to get home so we can fix Easton's swing outside!!! The 4 foot high mound of snow around our mailbox that has literally been there since November...was melted when we got home from lunch! We have grass again!!! I'm not much of an outdoorsy kind of girl-but I don't think I will ever miss a beautiful sunshiny day by staying inside ever again...I feel like we are coming out of hibernation!

So, I must get ready to go outside- Easton is napping and when he wakes up...Out we go for round 2.
I hope this weekend you are "disinfected" and loving on your own "spider monkey" out in the sunshine!

2009-02-27T16:40:00.001-05:00

kinda like a Chia Pet...

2009-02-27T14:33:00.018-05:00

well it is Friday...not sure that means too much in our house this weekend. Easton is sick and Jay will be working tomorrow. Jay will be out at a Ski Resort for a competition...is that working? The Army is not on my nice list this week. Easton is very congested- poor little guy. First time he has ever been sick, except for the NICU visit. I hate it-even if its just a cold, breaks my heart. He is still too funny-even when under the weather. This morning he rolled from back to tummy and then over to back again-and then...drum roll please He used his toy bar to pull up to sitting!!! I know!! Such an over achiever...He then fell over-but Hey it was a great milestone! He looked a little stunned- Like "Mama how did that happen?" His hair is growing-Jay and I both have very thick hair (well I used too) but Easton was born a bit of a baldie...but it is growing in. Its just a little spiky! It reminds me of the Chia Pets! I know, that's not nice-but really that is what it looks like! He's the cutest thing to ever look a bit like a Chia Pet but- well it does stand straight up! Here are a few recent pictures...Some on the day of the big THAW!! Hit 50 degrees and melted the snow...it has since all been covered up with snow again- but what can you do? I'm ready for a little heat!

Misunderstandings of a new Mama

2009-02-23T19:32:00.000-05:00

There are some things that other mothers tell you to expect about motherhood...but they don't tell it all...some things I think they might be keeping to themselves so that they can laugh when us new Mommy's are confused!...
I've been making Easton's baby food-a task I'm pretty impressed with myself for I'd have to say. Not that it is hard, but just that it does take a bit more effort than traditional baby food. Easton is eating sweet potatoes, avocado, butternut squash and bananas...well...
My mommy friend, should I use names??? Lets call her "super mama", she is an army wife, mama to a 1st grader, twin red headed 2 year old girls and a bun in the oven, she scrapbooks, blogs, facebooks, sews, bible studies, cooks, mentors new mamas (me!) and can talk on the phone all at the same time..hence the name..."super mama"...Anyway- super mama told me to get this handy plastic thingy to go under my highchair...she told me this long ago at the beginning of my pregnancy while shopping at babies r us...I listened and as we bought the highchair we also purchased the plastic thingy and promptly put it down under the chair. What super mama did not tell me was how to protect the walls, dining room chairs, table, floor in other parts of the room that you never dreamed could get messy, curtains or myself! Easton really enjoys holding the spoon, he is already such a "helper"! Wanting to help with getting the spoon in his mouth...he just sometimes misses.
Homemade baby food is pretty impressive-smells good no mystery smells. Looks good too-doesn't make you want to eat all things pureed but you know it is still resembling "real food"...The only problem is when a busy mama forgets to thaw out the cube of food the night before! Other than that-still pretty impressed with my baby-food making skills.
We had Gymboree today- Easton loves it. He is a bit of a show-off. He is the oldest one at the moment and he just smiles and laughs...and I think flirts a little bit with the girls- today he was trying to roll onto his baby friends blanket...boys will be boys I guess. We were just finishing class and I had to go potty so bad (saying potty is a teacher habit that will just not die) and I was not sure how to manage it- another thing that old Mommy's don't tell us new Mommy's. We have the slings to put them in to get things done around the house (yippee that's fun) but how do we go while we are out and about...cause ladies you know you go!!! Well I'm still not sure about this because my Prince Charming walked in at that time and rescued me! He does that often; rescue me. And alas I could potty in peace!
Then we enjoyed a quick lunch at what we will call a little Cafe who is trying to serve Mexican food- bless their hearts it is good, but lets be serious...its not Mexican...we are way to close to Canada to have Mexican Food...but moving on-that is a painful subject we try to avoid talking about mama's Mexican food cravings.
Another thing the other mama's are snickering about is the famous nursing cover. Its great, I have 2. Love them-nursed in 6 different states with that invention. Its super! But, something happened that nobody warned me about. While eating at the "cafe" with Prince Charming, Easton is still hungry after his avocado...so I think, well I'll nurse him just so we can make it home. My honey helps me we get all situated...and YIKES. Apparently, Easton has now decided the nursing cover is a toy. Very fun to lift up and down...and even giggle a bit as to cause a bit of onlookers. So what once was a very discreet little cover for nourishing my baby-has become some what of a peep show...Needless to say-They could have put that on the tag to be aware of!
He is just growing more and more...
5 months old ~ he weighs almost 17 lbs, wore his first 6-9 month outfit today (thanks Grammy he looked cute in the puppy outfit), is trying to sit up-daddy says "keep working those abs", rolls around...and seems to enjoy his ability to lay on his back with legs and arms in the air and spin around on his sheets. That's what we get for making sure his sheets were soft and smooth- He slides around! Which led us to having to remove his bumper pads last night, because he wiggled his way to the corner and got his little head stuck! He wasn't too happy-and mama was terrified...so off they came!
The other mama's might not have told me the whole truth...but my oh my how exciting figuring it out on my own is!

laughing out loud

2009-02-22T21:59:00.000-05:00

This afternoon I heard my son laughing like crazy in the living room while he was with his daddy-when I went to check on them...I could hear jay saying something about "your big ole' belly and you can whip those other babies-you can eat them for lunch!" I couldn't even be bothered by his words because he was hysterically laughing! So by the time I found the camera that records video- the moment had passed and isn't that just how it always happens- But lucky for you I was able to get the end of another round of the "big belly" laughing a little later- Its too cute..but maybe I'm way too biased to think anything else...These are the two loves of my life...and nothing sounds sweeter than the two of them laughing!
I started working on this entry before we went to our Life groups last night...and little did I know a great thing was about to happen...Jay was baptized! Saved! Going to Heaven! Just when you think things could not get any better...It does.

here goes nothing

2009-02-20T15:30:00.000-05:00

Well after taking a look at a few friends super blogs...I though I'd give it a try. Just to let you all know what is going on with our family. I figure its like an online scrapbook-We will see how creative I can get with this...Good thing my hubby is fantastic with all things computer. Maybe just a lot of me jabbering...but I'm sure you'll enjoy seeing Easton!