Maggie's De Coco Cafe

After much thought and deliberation we have chosen a Chocolate Lab to join our family....We have been thru the entire realm of dogs...from Mastiffs to another bulldog...to another Bernese Mountain Dog...from puppies to older dogs...from shelter pups to dogs from a private breeders...of course there are no guarantees to anything in life... but we are very excited about Maggie...and think she is going to be a wonderful fit in our family...we decided that this year we would be getting another dog to join our family we just didn't realize it would be this soon...but the opportunity has presented itself for both Maggie and for us and we are going for it....Maggie is a 4 year old Chocolate Lab...she comes from a stellar breeder nestled in the rolling hills of Santa Margarita California...her first 2 years of life she was quite busy crossing the state of California showing off in dog shows and has 13 First Place Ribbons to be proud of...her last 2 years she has had 2 litters of pups...she has been great mother but had difficulty delivering both litters and had to have c-sections (see we already have something in common)...after the 2nd c section her current owners decided that breeding was not in Maggie's cards and had her fixed...Maggie has been resting and getting back on her feet after motherhood and will soon be ready for a new home....and this is when the rest of her story will begin here in Cheyenne Wyoming....we are very very excited...our paths crossed by chance...I was actually in contact with a different breeder talking about what we were looking for...and making possible plans to purchase one of her dogs later this year....somewhere along the conversation ..Maggie came up...see this breeder I was visiting with actually provideds all the breeding stock for a neighboring Breeder...she told me that she knew of a great female Chocolate Lab and that the owner wanted to place her with a good home.....and that she thinks it would be a great match...we looked at pictures of Maggie and were so excited...but we didn't want to get our hopes up...maybe the owner already had a new home in mind for Maggie...maybe she wants a different type of family for Maggie...maybe she changed her mind about finding Maggie a new home....after a hour or so conversation with Maggie's owner and a long chat with Collin finished by a good night sleep on it....we will be picking up our new family member later this month...above is a picture of Maggie we feel so honored and so lucky to bring her into our family...

Mr Mooks a pretty cool cat

We have been blessed with a wonderful cat....Mr Mooks...I have had Mr Mooks for a long time now...he has always been a pretty cool cat...he really loves the dogs...people....and has become quite fond of Dylan...Wherever Dylan is...you can count on Mr Mooks is pretty darn close...he loves to sit next to Dylan and thinks it is just great when Dylan pulls and pets on him....I am not sure why Mr Mooks has such a fascination with Dylan but we are just fine with it....Mr Mooks has never really been Collin's favorite cat....but Collin has grown to love our little fat gray haired tabby...especially since he has been so great with Dylan....did I mention that Dylan thinks he is a pretty cool cat too.......

Christmas Eve

This year we celebrated Christmas on Christmas Eve since Collin had to work on Christmas...Collin's mom made it up for Christmas Eve and it was thoroughly enjoyable day...the morning started out slow with the whole family snuggled together in bed...we eventually made our way to the kitchen where we started the day with biscuits and gravy and Dylan and Collin finished the morning playing together and I enjoyed my time baking Gingerbread men for Santa's plate....Collin's mom made a apple pie and chocolate pie which we are still enjoying.....Dylan got a early start on opening his gifts....and after the 8th gift or so he was wore out from opening gifts...fell back into his boppy and soon was fast asleep.....it was

quite impressive all the gifts under the tree this year...and all for our little guy.....we didn't intend to buy so much for Dylan but we would see this or see that and pick up this and pick up that and before you know it between his Aunts and Uncles, neighbors and grandparents Dylan racked up over 30 presents....alot of great books....toys...darling outfits...and jammies....we really enjoyed the day....

And a good day had by all.......

Today was a good day had by all...Collin started out the morning early...delivering food baskets to needy families thru out the city of Cheyenne...Dylan and I were suppose to join him...but when the alarm went off at 6:00 am...I couldn't bare to walk up my little Dillybar all snuggled up close in my arms...so with that Dad gave us a quick kiss and was on his way....Dylan finally began to stir about 8:30 we took a quick shower together...and then Collin came and picked us up...we headed down to the fire station for a family style breakfast that was served to all the fireman and their families who helped distribute the food baskets....after breakfast we made our way to the Salvation Army were Collin found the most horrid looking Christmas sweater ever....he was very proud of his $3.00 find and is confident that he will win the ugliest Christmas sweater contest being held at one of the Christmas parties we are attending tomorrow ...the real problem is 2 other parties we are attending are going to think that he just has really really bad taste...after Salvation Army we made our way to Hobby Lobby....ahhhh home away from home...I love this store...with the final stop by my office at work...then we headed home....where Dylan and I took one of our sumptuous 3 hour naps and Collin actually ran to Fort Collins to get the car looked at...once Dad was home we went out for a early dinner....Dylan is really such a good baby...and does so well in restaurants....of course if we are eating ...then he wants to eat also...we came prepared with baby food...the meal was very enjoyable for all of us...we are now home....Dylan is down for another nap....Dad is multi tasking taking in a little tv and computer at the same time...I am going to enjoy a hot cup of tea and start working on my newest craft project...........

Pictures of Dylan

Trip To Grandma and Grandpa's

We just got back yesterday from a quick trip to South Dakota....the weather was bitterly cold with a high of 12 below on our drive to Grandma's house....we had a early Christmas and Dylan got all kinds of good toys....he loves his Elmo Live doll and has a new toy the hippos sings, monkeys throw balls, all kinds of things for Dylan to play with..we all really enjoyed our time with my mom and with Darrel it is very special to see your child interact with their Grandparents....it warms your heart like nothing else...

Happy Sunday

Today was a very cold very enjoyable day....the whole family slept in....had a relaxing morning...and then made our way out to go and do the remainder of our Christmas shopping....mainly stocking stuffers...we also had to get Dylan his very own stocking...in good Moody fashion we found a beautiful stocking with a needlepoint picture of Santa on the front at 50% off...we also picked up 2 identical collectible ornaments....one will be for us...one will go with Dylan once he is a adult...we will collect one a year for both of us...well I guess from now until forever....one of those tradition things that I am so crazy about...last night we went to Collin's work Christmas party...it was a good time and child friendly which made it even better...this afternoon we had my Christmas party which was also nice...we shared dinner with about 160 other agents and their families...the food was pretty darn good.......a local fine dining restaurant here in Cheyenne catered it for us....not sure Cheyenne and fine dining can be used in the same sentence...but the food was surprisingly very good...salmon, chicken, steak, pasta, and all kinds of good food....we are now back at home getting ready to head to South Dakota tomorrow to see Grandma and Grandpa Davis for a early Christmas...lucky us we get 2 Christmas celebrations this year...we will be back on Wednesday....until then stay warm

Jack Lalenne Power Juicer....forever

As we laid in bed this morning scanning the Sunday paper for Christmas deals...my eyes could not help but become fixated on the Target add that offered the Jack Lalenne Power Juicer...no please don't buy us one....we are already or I should say Collin is already a proud owner of the Jack Lalenne Power Juicer...I can remember clear as day when the phone rang in Rapid City...my darling boyfriend on the other end asking my thoughts on his pending purchase of the Jack Lalenne Power Juicer....because this part Juicer part garbage disposal had a hefty price tag of $150.00 bucks....Collin stumbled across this Wonder machine as he was channel surfing...he immediately become enamored with all the things this powerful juicer could do....he became almost trance liked when he made the call to Rapid...as his girlfriend I could here the yearning in his voice to own his very own Jack Lalenne Power Juicer...he had visions dancing in his head of fruit smoothies, ham and cheese shakes, powerful beet and carrot juice...this machine could do it all...no more leftovers in the fridge....no more need to use the garbage disposal...simply the magic of the Jack Lalenne Power Juicer will juice anything......think of the money and time you will save...literally you will never need another appliance again...simply juice your way to healthier better way of life........Collin was sold..the hefty price tag didn't begin to slow him down when he realized how much money this 8th world wonder would save him...and with that he even paid the express shipping to get started right away juicing his way thru life....Collin quickly went to the store and bought all kinds of fruit and veggies..anxiously awaiting the arrival of his wonder machine....and then the faithful day came....the juicer arrived...and reality began....Ole Jack Lalenne didn't mention how heavy this darn juicer was and that it is as big as a stove...or how many parts needed to be watched every time you use it...or the fact that $12.00 in fruit and veggies produced a whopping two 8 ounce glasses of juice....no Mr Jack Lalenne must have forgot all about these incredible features....I believe Collin used the machine once....it was the most expensive glass of juice EVER....this beautiful Jack Lalenne Power Juicer is in mint condition and would be quite a deal for someone wanting a barely used Juicer...but the truth is that we will always have the Jack Lalenne Power Juicer...it will follow us into old age...as a girlfriend I found it amusing...as a wife the reality is that we can't get rid of it..it cost to much money.....it is also almost to much to bare looking at it so it is tucked deep into the cabinets...so it is not a daily or constant reminder of the $150.00 dollars we blew.....Collin still hopes that someday his juicer will be all that was promised to him by ole Jack...until that day comes though it has provided a good amount of laughter and we quickly rush thru any infomercials that might catch our eye.......

The $4.99 Santa

I knew as soon as I walked into Walgreens that it was a bad idea...that there was a reason Santa Pictures were only $4.99....As we made our way up to the Walgreens Santa I swore to myself that never again ...that in the future we will happily choke down the $24.95 for the Mall Santa....as I made the initial decision to go to the discount Santa...I told myself....really how different can one Santa be from the next...you know the the red suit...the white beard...the ho ho ho...I actually snickered to myself thinking those poor foolish mothers shelling out the $24.99 for that over priced Mall Santa.....not me...I was going to save myself twenty bucks and then spend that on more important stuff like dog treats and overpriced hats for Dylan you know the 18 knit caps he has now just don't seem like enough...as we made our way to go see the generic Santa...I couldn't help but notice that their was no little Santa house...no snow...no Big Santa Chair...no velvet rope keeping everyone from Santa until it was your special turn...your special time with Santa ...just you and Santa and all of your dreams for Christmas...no the Walgreen Santa...was in a metal folding chair...propped up right next to the discount bargain bin at the front of the store...he did say hello in kind of a desperate way...his red santa suit was wrinkled and his beard hung low....a young girl in her WalGreens smock quickly wisked Dylan onto the discount Santa's lap...she quickly snapped a couple of shots with a cheap little camera....Cheapo Santa didn't ask what our little guy would like for Christmas...if Dylan had been naughty or nice...no candy cane to end the visit....just that will be $4.95 and then on our way...yes on our way....tomorrow is Sunday and seems like it will be the perfect day to do see the real Santa the one and only Mall Santa....the $24.95 Santa...we are going to get the whole experience..the waiting in line...the anticipation four your turn to sit on Santa's lap...I will relish the velvet rope...the Santa House...the nice little ole lady that is Santa' wife that will help Dylan onto the wonderful and kind Santa's lap...the $24.95 Santa will surely have a treat for our boy...will ask Dylan if he has been good or bad...and share that special moment with Dylan only the real Mall Santa can do....I will stand in line with the rest of the mothers...beaming with pride...telling myself how can you put a price on memories like this..happily handing over my $24.95

Good Wednesday

Who would ever think that Wednesday mornings could be so nice....the whole family sleeped in together...including Mr Mooks and Whoo man.....all snuggled up on the bed....the last couple of days have been soooo busy that we really needed close family time...all of us just close together....I am going to do most of my work from home today....with the whole family together....it is a cold winter day here in Cheyenne...but the sun is bright and is streaming thru the front window warming my face as only the Sun can do as I type this email....Winston is by my side....Dylan is playing in his jumperoo...Dad is taking a well rested couple of minutes and eating waffles and reading the news...and Mr Mooks is like myself and taking advantage of the warm sun on this cold winter day...though he is stretched out warming his tummy instead of his face....well I can't put it off any longer...it is time to get back to work .........and with that I hope you all have a good Wednesday tooo......

4th gear and shifting into overdrive.....

Busy day...had to be at the office at 8:00 am and have been running ever since...just put another property under contract....and celebrated with a hot dog from Sam's Club......we really know how to celebrate in the Moody house....we are seriously thinking about buying a nice camera for our family Christmas gift...last year we bought our video camera....I hate electronics....if I just can't push a button and call it good ....I am in big trouble....so I have completly bowed out of the decision making process on the new camera....I will be happy with whatever Collin finds for us as long as it can take quick action shots...thats what we hate about our existing camera....Dylan had a great day at home with his Dad...and did quite well without me at home today...I came home at 10:00 and nursed him otherwise him and dad have made a day of it....I made it back home at 4:00 again...the beauty of my work is so much of it is done over the phone and computer....which can be done anywhere...and literally my office is less than a 5 minute drive including the 5 or so stop lights....we are very fortunate...well with that I am going to sign off for the night.......share a beer with my husband and bake some cookies.......

Running on empty and 100 miles to go

Work and home...have been presenting a challenge...Work has started to really pick up...and Dylan is becoming more active....and throw in the busiest time of the year for Holidays.....and I am being quite challenged....but here is the good news....I am up for it....often tired....often running....a forgetful mind....but happy happy happy......thankful for all the opportunity at work...and blessed with a beautiful baby boy...and loving the spirit of the holidays...oh did I mention I am grateful for my wonderful and hard working husband.....don't get me wrong...I have my moments of feeling slightly overwhelmed....but once I put it all in perspective...the overwhelmed feeling turns to pretty much joy...and empowerment....the feeling of digging deep and knowing I can get it done...it is something that I have always thrived on my entire life...whether it was in sports or business....I have always loved the feeling of running on empty and still have 100 miles to go....it brings the best out of me....it is so awesome when the mind can take over and make things happen....when the body is ready to quit...or when your mentally baked....and physically you pull it thru...often on auto pilot....but when you look back and say wow I did it... of course I didn't mention I must have lost my cell phone 5 times this week.....I found it all 5 times ...that's what really counts....and that I showed up to a Holiday party with my dessert and gift in hand the only problem was I was exactly one week early..........oopps....dork award for the week...I am sure there were other blunders in my challenged state....but I was possibly so overwhelmed at the time I can't remember them......so I am thankful for the cranky teething baby...all of my work...all of the snow we shoveled...and the family and memories and challenges we over came this week........what doesn't kill you only makes you stronger...........on a full tank and ready to start next week.....bring it on

Long last night......leads to great day

Long night....last night was a little on the long side....Dylan is teething and having quite the time with it...I am glad that I was their to comfort my little guy though it meant not much sleep for me....had a morning meeting at 8:00 this morning and toured homes...my clients home went under contract....and was a good productive day...went and had a great lunch with Collin and Dylan...and late this afternoon had a 2 hour nap with my Dillybar.....one of Dylan's Christmas gifts arrived...we got him a little toy center for his room...so all of his small toys have a place to go....I believe Collin is going to work on putting it together tonight and I need to get the Christmas tree done...Dylan seems to be doing a little better today with the teething....we will see how this evening goes.........wish us luck

DylanMacPhieMoody@hotmail.com

Dylan had quite a busy day today...it started off with a baby sing along and read time at the library....he then signed up for the winter reading club at the library...they needed a email to send information....and with that DylanMacPhieMoody@hotmail.com was created...now if you want to email Dylan directly or send him something feel free to do so...mom and dad will manage it ...until Dylan is big enough to do so....what fun...yesterday was pretty darn quiet...we did manage though to make it out to do a little x-mas shopping for Dylan....Kohls had a 40% off on fisher price and 50% off playschool toys...so we got some pretty good deals...last night and today Dylan has been a tad cranky....he is teething and having his first little tooth coming thru....we called the Doctor and they recommended some baby liquid Tylenol....so we are hoping that helps ease the pain....otherwise had a productive day at work and should be under contract on a home later this evening......wish me luck....

A OFFICIAL MOODY SNOW DAY

What a glorious morning...cozy in our little home on 6th Avenue....snuggled up on the couch....Dylan is fast asleep on my lap as I type this....Mr.Mooks on my left and Winston on my right...listening to Mannheim Steamroller and watching the snow dance in the cold winter air outside...waiting patiently for daddy to join us....we have officially called today a snow day....that means football for Collin....decorating the tree for me....a no car seat day for Dylan....just playtime and cuddle time ...no travel time....just a easy winter day at home........

Busy Christmas Bees

What a fun and busy day....the whole family spent the whole day together...we started out with a little snow removal at 2 apartment complexes....we then made our way home and began pulling snowman and trees from the garage rafters and worked on our yard decorations...by 2:30pm we called it day...it really looks quite nice...tomorrow we will get everything lighted....and hopefully get the Christmas tree up in the house tomorrow....well we really didn't call it a day at 2:30 because we still had the highly anticipated light parade that we wanted to attend....one of those family traditions....I baked some cookies...made some hot cocoa...and we all bundled up for the big parade....Dylan was a champ at the parade and really seemed to enjoy himself and took in all the lights and sounds of the parade....on the other hand Winston was a big baby...wrapped in his blanket...bundled up on my lap...and still shivered thru the whole parade....I can't wait until Dylan is old enough to drive his little wooden car that my dad made him...we will definitely participate in the parade as soon as Dylan can drive his little car....I can't wait load it up with lights and to have him pull Winston in his wagon......and of course music...really loud Christmas music....well with that we am going to call it a evening and all cuddle up in bed and watch a movie.....the sooner I get to sleep the sooner I get to get up and finish the Christmas decorations..........am so excited

A 5 Course Nap

Dillybar and I both do best when we have our afternoon nap together...it truly is a time that we get to sleep together, cuddle, and reconnect....unfortunately days like yesterday do not allow us "our time " together...so Dillybar makes due in his car seat and I go without our nap and cuddle time....but today it was on...we took a delicious 5 course nap today...1st course a little nursing combined with play and giggle time...2nd course....the fade away we both begin to slow down and spend quiet time studying each other....3rd course...good ole deep snoring sleep....4th course...me waking up and getting to watch my Dillybar fast asleep...this is one of my favorite courses...and the final course...little Dillybar waking up with a long stretch and a big peaceful smile on his face....this 5 course nap usually takes just a little over 2 and 1/2 hours and is worth every minute....I am so glad that we got one today!

Thanksgiving move out of the way Christmas is on the way

Thats right...the turkey was great...the company was fabulous...but now its time for Christmas....I LOVE CHRISTMAS...I love the hustle and bustle of the holiday ...I love the Christmas music....pretty much 24/7 from now until the 1st....haaaa no more Zepplin for Collin.........thank goodness...unless of course they did a Christmas Album......and I highly doubt it...so I should be safe on that issue...I love baking and cooking and the holiday candles filling the air...chilly walks thru the neighborhood enjoying all the festive decorations....I do though honor every holiday...so the pumkins will finally come down today...and the reindeer will find there place among the lighted Christmas trees and whatever else we can fit in this little yard....Winston and Mooks dressed in their holiday scarfs....I now get to pull out my cheesy Christmas coat with snowman on it...to proudly wear during the holidays....I don't mind the snickers and laughs from the gals at work...laughed at I guess is better than no laughs at all....I graciously though take all the compliments to come from the old and the young...we will attend all the outings that we can fit in...tomorrow Santa comes thru downtown on his sleigh...along with the kiwanis club....fireman....the local boy scouts....we will be wrapped up in blankets on the side of the curb waiting for our sneak peak at the horses...the pretty cars...fire trucks...and then finally Santa....the warm thermos of hot choclate on your hands feels as good as the hot coaco taste...yes these are the things that I Love about Christmas.....I look forward to catching up with friends and family during the holiday time...I am even going to do a little shopping today...just enough to enjoy all the displays and what each store has to offer.....shopping will be on the short list this year but thats ok....because it never really has been why I LOVE CHRISTMAS...it is the family time that I love....reflecting on the year....listening on the news the stories of hope, stories of failure to success, the stories that touch your heart...real stories about real people.....making you feel so fortunate that you weren't one of those stories this year....with that it is time to put on my cheesy jacket...put Dylan in his adorable holiday hat...force the scarves upon the pets....pull out the reindeer and get this day started..........hoping you all enjoy the holidays in your own way...as much as I am going to.......

Thankful

This time last year we announced to our family that we were going to be blessed with a baby in our life...it was a exciting and joyous time....the dream of becoming a family had begun...planning for Dylan's arrival will always stay with me as one of my most memorable times in my life....now our little bundle of joy is here with us....his bright blue eyes ... loving smile and his curiosity he finds in every day objects....his peaceful sleep....his joyous laughs....we are so blessed...so of course this year we are thankful for our beautiful baby boy and all his life has brought to our family...our life before Dylan was like a nice black and white picture but now that picture is full of vivid colors and depth and every time you look at it you see something new.......as I drove to work yesterday I realized that I get to be Santa this year....so very cool...life truly is amazing and awesome....I feel so blessed to be apart of such a wonderful family...Collin is a amazing father and loving husband....Dillybar is perfection from head to toe even his stinky poo's are perfect....Winston is so not perfect and is needy and demanding and loves his little brother soooo much...and Mooks he is Mooks and is always a comforting constant in our lives....finally besides my family....I am thankful for our new heater this winter ....it feels really good right now on this snowy Thanksgiving morning....

Beat

As I type this I am beat...it was a good beating.....u know trying to always find the positive....though my tired feet and sore wrist...really don't know the difference from a bad beating or a good beating...but my mind though tired is happy and my feet will be happy again after a hot bath....it was just a busy hectic day...showing property...then back to breastfeeding...then off to the grocery store...then back home again Dylan down for a quick nap...then writing up the offer...then meeting with the client to sign the offer.......then off to another office to present a offer....all at the same time keeping a baby happy...and making sure that my client is full protected with paper work....trying to read the other agent so we can figure out what to offer.......changing diapers....doing laundry....making sure Winston is ok.....huhhhhhh....getting ready for the office...feeding Dylan peaches.....Collin made it home at 11:00 so I could show properties without Dylan...this was our 2nd viewing so we pretty much knew we would be putting in a offer today....was able to get the home shown and contract done before Collin went back at 3:00 but then it was Dillybar and me...off to the store......Wal Mart and Sams Club to make it even worse...then to the office....back home...then back to the office at 5:00 to sign contract..then off to another office at 6:30 to drop off offer...now home...we both changed into our comfy clothes....we both ate...Dylan milk.....me a burger...now we are off to the tub as soon as my fingers stop typing...then to the big bed for cuddles and dreams.......tomorrow I will be beat free........thats a good thing

A Merry Monday

Why not...a merry Monday...so far its been great..the whole family slept well...I could watch little Dylan sleep for hours...he is such a good little sleeper...the morning has started out well...we went to our first baby lap read session at the library....we have such a great library....it is a new facility that I believe was voted this year as the best library in the country....I can see why...wow..very nice....Dylan really enjoyed all the other babies we will make it a weekly must do...I enjoyed the time with the other mothers and watching all the babies play together...now back at home Dylan is taking a morning nap....no work today...I am planning on playing with Dylan all day and getting a little housework done...tomorrow I will be at work all day....lots of paperwork in the morning and showing property at lunch.............until next time

Sharing..... a lesson learned from Winston

It is a bright beautiful morning here in Cheyenne today....lots and lots to do!!!We were going to start the morning off with picking up a new addition to the family....Daisy a 1 1/2 old female English Bulldog...we have been discussing her for a week or so...she is really a darling dog....and would be great for breeding with Winston....but we really have just been having some concerns about how the harmony of our home would change....we both feel alot better for deciding not to bring Daisy into our home....we have though both agreed that we really miss having a bigger dog around the house....and both think another Bernese Mountain Dog would be a great family fit....we really enjoyed Solomon and miss him dearly...so perhaps next Christmas or the following Christmas we will bring a female fluffy baby berner back into our lives....so for now Winston has a reprieve...and can enjoy his only dog status for at least the next 12 months....Dylan really loves Winston...he often looks over at Winston and laughs and smiles....Winston is only to eager to give Dylan all the kisses he can handle....Winston will also be there to give Dylan some life lessons...Sharing I think will top the list....Winston is pretty good about Dylan's toys and things....but there are a couple of items that Winston insist that Dylan must share with him....one is his blanket....the blanket that I spent wayyyyyyy to much money on before Dylan was born....it has a very cute little frog stuffed animal on the end of it.....Winston constantly sneaks Dylan's blanket away....and all the scolding in the world can't keep Winston away from it....Winston is very gentle with it and just really wants to cuddle up with it on the couch....so Winston and Dylan now share the blanket.........they also share a plastic box that you put toys in....Winston loves this plastic box...he gently goes over to where Dylan is playing and takes the box away.....makes no difference whether or not we say no....Winston demands that Dylan shares his box with him...and with that a new lesson of sharing has emerged.......the rest of the day we are going to go to the Alpaca farm, put some Christmas decorations up and do a little shopping.....hopefully we can take a picture of Dylan with the Alpacas and then share it with all of you online...

The Power of Prunes

It truly is amazing how parenthood changes....last night at 8:00 pm marked one of our happiest moments in the last week or so....you might guess that perhaps it was a anniversary of sorts for us...a special meal...a hand held walk in the forest...if you guessed any of the above you would a very loud WRONG...no at 8:00 pm last night we were given a gift of relief.....after 4 days Dylan finally went poop.....and boy did he go....the excitement in Collins voice as he called for me to hurry come lucky honey....we hit the motherlode.....we were so proud of our little pooper...pretty sad that all our little guy has to do is take a dump and we are beaming from ear to ear....the more the merrier...the happier we were...once the relief sank in...also did the reality that this was particularly stinky and very messy...we hit a new record with poop making it all the way to his collarbone.......very impressive...and one of the highlights on our trip to South Dakota...our biggest highlight though was watching Dylan spend time with his Grandpa and Grandma Davis....it was very special watching the 3 of them together....all in all it was a very enjoyable trip to Rapid City.......

Thanksgiving is coming early

Tomorrow am ....we pack everything in the car except the cat and head off to Rapid City for a early Thanksgiving with my mom....we are very excited for Grandpa and Grandma Davis to see Dylan...he has changed and grown so much since our last visit....it will be a quick visit ....we will be back on Saturday...just enough time to visit....eat turkey...visit a little more and head home...the weather looks like it is going to be good....whenever we pack to head to Rapid City...I always think back to the times that Collin and I would travel back and fourth every week or so to see each other....I would often leave Cheyenne at 2 in the morning to make it back to work at 8 am....wow the crazy things that love drives you to do....what great memories.....I am glad that they are memories...because we had such a hard time in the beginning just being able to be in the same place....we are so grateful just for the time that we have together........its pretty awesome being under just one roof....the little things that most couples take for granted...like sleeping together...or having more than 3 days at a time together...we truly appreciate...even still...well most days we do........with that I must go....I have a cranky baby that hasn't pooped in 2 days...so it could be a long night......

Tired

I was really tired today....had a good morning at the office...but by this afternoon I just wasn't feeling well...came home to take a nap...it is kind of weird but I have a hard time sleeping without Dylan now...I am so use to him sleeping in my arms that I feel lost without him there...this afternoon Daddy was home and could have kept Dylan busy...in fact Dylan was asleep in his car seat but woke up when he heard me and started crying...I was glad that he woke up and couldn't wait to hold him and cuddle him up on the couch and take a nap...which we did...we slept blissfully for a good 2 hours together...I guess its just our thing....well I must get back to work....thank goodness for computers....I have a date with the couch and a bunch of files that need to be updated for work....Dylan and Daddy are planning a little one on one time with the Denver Nuggets.......

Peas, Peaches, and Prunes

Yeah Dylan has now eaten peas, peaches, and prunes....we started with the prunes since he seemed a little constipated eating only the rice cereal...then we ran out of prunes and went to peaches...concerned that he would snub his nose to peas after all that sweet fruit...he handled it like a champ and ate the peas...he seems to almost need the extra food in his diet now...he gets really excited when we get the bib out and the food out....we feed him now twice a day...and he eats all that we will give him...as soon as his little system seems that it can handle 2 feedings a day we will ease it into 3....right now though he is getting some gas pains...so we are trying to move slowly on this...but he has gotten quite demanding when it comes to food...he wants more and makes it very clear.....well its been a busy night..nursing...cuddling...playing....eating...a bath....now its time for a book and bed for our little guy........until tomorrow

Sunday visit

Another nice day...I headed to work Sunday morning.....nothing to exciting...Collin's mom came for a visit...it is so nice seeing Dylan with his grandparents....it is just kind of amazing to watch all of this love they all shower him with....his Nein (grandma) also brought a very cool gift for Dylan....this very cool plastic bib that you can wipe off....and brought him a very cute shirt...we are headed to go see his grandma and grandpa in South Dakota later this week....and then off to California in the spring to see his 2 sets of grandparents in California...what a lucky little man to be surrounded by soooo much love....well we are spending the day together......not sure what we are going to do...I would imagine lots of playing and cuddling are in order......

A restful day

The whole family slept well last night....I think we can thank all of the snow shoveling for that...even Winston and Mr Mooks slept pretty darn sound....its pretty cool that where ever the family is...Mr Mooks and Winston are close by...whether its taking a bath, playing in Dylan's room, or bedtime we never have to look to far to find Winston and Mr Mooks....it is a very good feeling to have the whole family together especially at bedtime...it truly is the family bed....Winston, Mr Mooks, Dylan, Collin and I all find our place on the bed....it does mean a little extra laundry...and a little extra patience...and often a sense of humor in it all...but at the end of the day...it is all worth it....today is being filled with rest, household chores, grocery shopping, a little cooking, and a visit to the fire station to see Daddy

Snow = work

Our first snow today....Collin decided that he would give snow removal a try as a new side business...since the lawn mowing did very well he made somewhere around $4000 to $5000 plus he got that like new riding lawn mower valued somewhere around
$1000....I sent out a quick email this morning that Collin would be offering affordable snow removal and he already has 9 clients this does not include any of the foreclosure properties which will be around another 15 or so...so he will have somewhere around 25 properties for snow removal....the whole family helped today...little Dylan and Winston cheered Mom and Dad on...we finished the evening with Dinner at our favorite Mexican restaurant....Dylan really loved being out and watching all of the action...we are now home having a hot cup of chai tea and going to take a nice soak in the tub to warm our weary bones.........until tomorrow

A good day

Today by all accounts was a good day....happy baby...happy husband and a happy mom....I think even Winston and Mooks were pretty darn content today...this evening I am heading over to a all girls evening...I enjoyed the last one so I am counting on this one to be the same....once a month we have dinner and drinks at someones house...kind of nice....had a great day at work...things are starting to get back on track...made some pretty yummy banana bread for home and work...and really not much more to say....on a strictly baby note....since Dylan has started to eat baby food...we pay alot of attention to his bowel movements....we are now anxiously waiting for one...nothing yesterday...and after 2 servings of prunes and one serving of cereal it really is time.....we won't rest easy until he goes pooooo.....wow the things that we worry about now....I am secretly hoping the explosion happens while I am having great dinner conversation and enjoy a nice glass of red wine with my friends.......until next time

Fun

Fun is the best word to describe Dylan right now....he is just so much fun....we are really just having a great time as a family....right now he is eating prunes with Dad...once our little guy is done he will be promptly taking a bath with mom...he must be going thru a growing spurt right now....he eats pretty much 24/7 ...sleep...play...and eat....that is pretty much his routine...he really likes Winston...and is constantly watching him....Winston is wonderful with Dylan and is very patient whether Dylan is petting him or kicking him....Winston always responds with lots of kisses...can't wait for Thanksgiving and then Christmas....he really loves his big toys that he plays in so much...that we are looking for something quite substantial for him to play with...he really gets good use of his toys...today he received packages from Grampa and Grandma Hill and Grandpa and Grandma Moody....Grandpa Moody always picks out the best books for Dylan...In fact Grandpa Moody picks out pretty good books for the whole family....Grandma Hill sent a really awesome scrap book.....it really is quite awesome...all the pages are done...just add photos...the lady that made it...did a really beautiful job so I am very excited about putting it together for our family....Dylan also received his first baseball from Grandpa and Grandma Hill....it even has his name on it....Dylan's gift was rounded out with a camouflage hunting outfit...must be a hint hint from Grandpa Hill....we are looking forward to making a trip out to California to see family this Spring....we might also be making our first trip to Disneyland...hint hint to Collin...can you imagine how cute Dylan will be with mickey mouse ears........so much to look forward to.......

A good day followed by a long night

Yesterday was a good day followed by a long night...the long evening started with a walk in the park at about 5:30...the warm fall day was beginning to cool as the sky grew dark....as we made our way thru the park my breathing started to become a little difficult....I really wasn't worried at this point...I could still get a pretty good deep breath but as the walk continued I wish I would have remembered to bring my inhaler....it is so frustrating that once again I can't go anywhere without my inhaler...my steps began to slow as I could feel my chest beginning to tighten...I still felt thought that if we took it slow...I could make it home...without a attack....about 3/4 of the way home...I just couldn't go anymore...my air was shallow and I was on the verge of having a full blown asthma attack which is not such a good thing when you don't have a inhaler or a way to get to one quickly....I really didn't want to wait in the park by myself in the dark as Collin ran home to get the inhaler....I kind of created a real mess for my self....my quick thinking husband decided to put in the back of the wagon with Winston and pull me most of the way home.....I can only imagine the sight...thank goodness it was dark.....I attempted to walk the last 2 blocks home but it just wasn't going to happen with that Collin ran home and brought me back my inhaler....just slightly stressful....the other stressful note of the evening was little Dillybar.....with solid foods.........comes solid poop......little Dillybar hadn't gone poop 2 days....and we began to worry....we gave him some prunes earlier in the day and at 5:00 am this morning they seemed to do the trick....you have never seen to people so excited about a crying baby at 5:00 am....we both got up....what a mess....poop...smelly yucky poop...and then Dylan proceeded to pee all over the place....he peed on Collin....on his blanket...on his onesie.....now wide awake we took a quick bath in the sink.....got our little man changed...and it was amazing he was sound asleep before either Collin or I.....a good day...a long night...with lessons learned

One good parent

Dylan is lucky that he at least has one good parent......and yes you guessed it that would not be me but Mr Perfect ohhhh I mean Collin....Dylan is also lucky that he has one fun parent and no....you guessed wrong ...that would be me....We actually are both good parents and both share alot of fun times with Dylan....but I would say that Collin tends to be a little stuffier than I....a little more cautious than I....just not quite as fun and kid like as I...I am sure most of you are saying that is a good thing.....well I am sure you are right...but I am blogging so it really doesn't matter what you think....see its all about my perception of reality...this is my blog....so it is all ab out what I think.....and I think it is ok for Dylan to have his first taste of pumpkin pie filling at Thanksgiving.....Mr No Fun...Perfect Collin...looked at me in disbelief and horror....not our child...he can't taste pumpkin pie filling...it has to many ingredients...he might get sick...he might like it.....sugar......blahhh blahhh blahhhhh....as I sternly looked at Mr Good Parent and advised him that my child will taste pumpkin pie filling if he wants...that a 1/4 teaspoon won't make him sick...and that if he likes it....well isn't that the whole purpose of eating pumpkin pie filling.....to like it......I then decided to really push my luck....lets just see how far we can push Mr Perfect Parent of the Year...and with that I let Dylan just on the edge of his tongue taste my Caffeine free sugar free diet coke......Dylan loves to mimic what we do and as I was drinking my diet coke ....he reached for the can....I let him take it....he put it up to his mouth and put his tongue on the rim to taste it......now all of you shaking your head in disbelief....lets get honest with ourselves....it was a drop......I survived after being surrounded by a fog a cigarette smoke my entire youth....if I remember correctly from home videos Collin ran around the house with a beer box on his head...might I add some of those folks in those home videos look like they could be members of the Grateful Dead .....if you know what I mean....so with that I rest my case.....I think a balance of Good and Fun is needed in every family......we actually had a pretty good laugh over the whole episode of Diet Coke....yes Collin was really laughing.....will try to get his first bite of pumpkin pie filling on camera...we are working up to it with our daily baby food.......until next time

Winstons nails painted and suede booties for Dylan

Dylan was quite the worker and did well the other day when we were out showing houses...Dylan is also quite the sleeper....we both went fast asleep last night at 8:30 we woke up about 6:00 played with Daddy for awhile and went back to sleep around 7:00 and got up at 9:30 or so....Dylan is happily playing and I am blogging with Winston snoring next to me....ahhh what a life....so today we are off....I think we are going to go to the park...go see Daddy....Winston has really wanted his nails painted so I think we will be finding the time to get this accomplished today....I also need to take down my Halloween holiday decorations that I have inside....and perhaps do a little cooking and baking....yesterday I had to work at our mall location so that means Gymboree shopping...I had a 30% off coupon in tow so the damage wasn't to bad....I have come to terms and so has Collin that I just can't fight the urge....,so I have completely surrendered to my urge and need to buy the majority of Dylan's clothes at Gymboree....I love all the darling hats...and they have great overalls...and good quality....and if you buy the stuff when it comes on sale....its not much more than the cheap stuff...and I really enjoy it and love dressing Dylan everyday....we are only having one child....we might as well really enjoy it.....so that is all of my justification to make myself feel better about shopping at Gymboree.....with that it is time to get Dylan dressed.....hmmmm will it be his blue corduroys overalls or his tan overalls....his dino knit cap or his nordic influenced green winter cap and matching suede booties....decisions....decisions

Dylan's on the job

Dylan is going to go to work with me today...to show some houses...this is a previous client of mine that is actually now wanting to move into town...I gave her the choice of going with Dylan or without....she loves babies and wanted to go on a day that Dylan could come....I of course would not take Dylan with me to work with most clients....but Chaylice and her family have become friends...and have been very excited about little Dylan coming into our lives...in fact they stopped over for Halloween...little Dillybar is playing now so about 8:30 or so I will feed him and then we will head off to work.........wish us luck...will give you a afternoon update if all goes well

Sad about Lucy

Our family is mourning a loss today...Lucy our beautiful vibrant orange and white koi jumped to her death sometime last night....Collin had just moved Ricky and Lucy downstairs yesterday from there outdoor fish pond...perhaps Lucy was depressed in her dark environment or her smaller swimming quarters were to much to take with Ricky constantly at her side...Collin went down stairs this morning to check on our beloved Ricky and Lucy to see how they were making the adjustment...he immediately noticed that our beautiful big girl Lucy was missing in action...he then began to focus his investigation of our missing Lucy on Mr.Mooks...poor Mooks he is always blamed for everything....in out of the corner of his eye...a unmistankenable sight our lovely Lucy was found laying lifeless on the cold basement floor...and with that all the pieces came together....Mr Mooks was no longer a suspect and Collin soon put together that Lucy had taken her own life....with that we can no longer just have a Ricky whats a Ricky without a Lucy...he is just swimming in circles...longing for his lost Lucy...so with the loss of Lucy we will be saying goodbye to our lonely Ricky we will be sending our little Ricky back to the big pond so that he can begin a new life...a better life...a bigger life...for without his Lucy his life here is empty...so with that we are sad about our Lucy and bidding farewell to our Ricky sending him off to find a new mate and a new bigger and better life..........

Ups and Downs

Lets start out with the downs...its so much better ending on a positive note...the downs started yesterday morning when I went back to the doctor...after 40 or so pricks on my back and 18 needles in my arms...we found out that I am highly allergic to cats....I am not a doctor but I really didn't need that many pricks and pokes on my arm and back to know that....anyways the Doctor asked me what I was going to do with my cat...I made direct eye contact with the Doc not even a blink and with a pleasant smile advised him that when I leave here that I would be going home and pet my cat...that is what I am going to do with my cat...I think he knew the answer before he asked the question...just as I knew that I was allergic to Mr Mooks before all the pokes...so with that he gave me a prescription for 4 different medicines that have to be taken daily...on the up side Dylan ate his first food....he had some lovely rice cereal with milk...and loved it....he took right to the eating from the spoon and actually took the spoon into his little hands and put it in his mouth...he is really excited about eating and really loved helping put the spoon in his mouth....infact after the first 3 bites he decided that he was not going to open his mouth until he could get his hands around the spoon so that he could put the spoon in his mouth....we are having so much fun with Dylan and I think he is having a pretty good time also experiencing so many new things....so with that I leave you on a positive note

Creating Memories

Dylan's first Halloween was quite enjoyable...at least for me...I am not quite sure he enjoyed his lions outfit as much as I did....the weather was quite warm here yesterday...so Dylan's full head to toe costume really wasn't ideal...but I was really excited about this outfit and loved every minute of it...and my little man was a good sport with it all...Dylan made his way to my office for a potluck then we headed to Grandma Moody's school in Eaton and finished the day off with a get together for the neighbors at our home....the whole day was really quite enjoyable....can't wait till next year....but until then we have alot of decorating for Christmas to get done...and that will start tomorrow....that means the tear down of Halloween and the beginning prep for Christmas...I am very excited....and Collin he is kind of like Dylan...a good sport about it all...I wouldn't say that he is excited about decorating anything...in fact tolerable might be a better word....I know what a lucky man.....all these memories we are creating....memories of frustration when we have to pull the dozen of holiday decorations from the rafters in the garage hoping not to get hit by straying reindeer head...or the wonderful memories of getting on the roof to hang the holiday lights in 40 mph Cheyenne wind just to have your wonderful loving wife tell you that the lights are not even and that they have to be redone....and once you have accomplished getting the reindeer in place..the lights on perfect....that wonderful wife of yours pipes up and says that she thinks we need more lights...perhaps on the trees....ohhh yes these are the memories of the holidays.......so with that today we will be creating memories....keep Collin in your thoughts

Excited

I am starting to get excited for tomorrow...I really enjoy Halloween...and this one is very special since it will be our first Halloween with Dylan...I am cooking this evening....since we will be having neighbors and friends over tomorrow night....it is kind of a Halloween Tradition for me.....I have always cooked and baked and have opened my home for Halloween....In years past when I lived in Rapid City I would have as many as 100 friends, neighbors, and co workers stop by for the Holiday...I would literally bake and cook for 2 days straight....I really really enjoyed it...it quickly became a local tradition not just for me but for friends and family also....so it is exciting to be starting the tradition here though on a smaller scale...which is not such a bad thing...only 1 day of cooking :)so tomorrow will be filled with a potluck at work....followed by heading to go see Grandma Moody and her class in Eaton then followed up by a open house at our home...all kinds of fun festivities await us......with Dylan in tow in his darling little lion outfit....
hardly can't wait until tomorrow........

Sweet Dreams

Our little Dillybar is quite the sleeper....he loves to sleep....loves going to bed at night...when it hits 8:30 pm he is ready for bed....he has no interest in falling asleep in my arms or cuddling up on the couch...he wants his bed....he wants in bed...wants to nurse...and wants to go to sleep...even though during the day he naps very happily snuggled up to his mom on the couch....night time---is bed time---and that means bed---not couch---he happily sleeps till we make him get up....this morning he slept until 9:30 am.....when I finally made him get up...he cat naps from 6:00 am until whenever we make him get up...he loves to snuggle....eat a little...and fall back to sleep....he then proceeded to play for a 1/2 hour or so...then he ate again and back to sleep for a quick 45 minute nap...he is playing now...and will be ready to eat and nap here in the next hour or so for probably a hour or so....he will then take a afternoon nap from 4 until 6 or so....I was a little concerned that maybe he is sleeping to much...but our Doctor assured us that let him sleep as much as he wants....so here is to sweet dream...

Good News

Dylan had his 4 month old Doctors appointment today...and all went well...he is still somewhere around 90% for his height and weight...he weighed in at 17 pounds today.....and all looks good...we talked to his Doctor about the whooping cough...and he wasn't very concerned...saying that most whooping cough cases are transmitted from adult to child...and not from child to child....also Dylan has already received his first vaccine for whooping cough at 2 months of age....so we will just have to watch and see....we still haven't verified whether or not our friends little girl actually has whooping cough.......the exciting news is that Dylan can start eating baby cereal.....so we will begin to attempt feeding him some later today.....he really has been watching us eat the last week or so....so this will be something new and exciting .........well with that until next time

Not such a great day

I usually am a pretty positive person...and most days are good days....well today is still a good day....the sun is out....and looking forward to a afternoon walk in the park with Dylan...I am sure the day will just keep getting better...but it so far has started out on shaky ground.....I received a call this morning from Collin...he was letting me know that our good friends little girl might have whooping cough....this is awful for them...and kind of bad for us....since we spent time with their family a couple of nights ago....I immediately googled whooping cough....it turns out it is highly contagious and is extremely dangerous for infants under 6 months....75% of all infants under 6 months are hospitalized........not the news I really wanted to hear this morning.....well their daughter is getting tested for whooping cough...Dylan goes in for his 4 month old appointment so we will be asking lots of questions and possibly getting tested for whooping cough.....as Iam researching whooping cough...I hear this awful noise coming from the front of our house....its a unmistakable noise of a cat fight getting ready to start....I make it out in time to somewhat stop the worse of it....Mr Mooks is just now getting over the last cat fight....which cost us almost $200.00 in vet bills....I did though get a good look at the cat and was able to throw rocks at it to scare it away....it is actually our neighbors cat down the street....we really don't want to say anything....but her cat is kind of a bully....Mr Mooks doesn't leave his yard....and this cat comes into our yard and starts the fights in our yard....every fight has been in our yard....so with that we are going to let her know...its kind of unfortunate because she will have to keep her cat inside....but Mr Mooks shouldn't have to be bullied in his own yard....well with that I am done complaining...and can hopefully move on to at least a good day

Roll Dylan Roll

It's amazing how excited the whole family is over Dylan rolling over for the first time....Dylan has been working hard on it the last week or so...and last night he finally rolled over....we were cheering him on....he would get so close and then roll back onto his back...he just couldn't get his arm out of the way....finally though with lots of hard work....it happened and just like that...he can now roll over from his back onto his stomach.......a proud Dylan and Momma and Papa slept well last night......can't wait to see what next our little Dylan will do...

Collin's new favorite day of the year

Last night we attended a firemen appreciation dinner that is held by a local church at the community center....this is the second time that Collin has gone...and I think it might be one of his favorite days of the year ....ranking right up there with Christmas....this will be a must go to every year on our calendar....the food was good....the fellowship was great...the church gets tons of donations from local businesses so after the meal they raffle off lots of prizes....there are always more prizes than fireman so everyone gets a prize and sometimes more than one prize....so you can begin to see what makes this one of Collin's favorite days of the year...free meal....free gifts.......this year Collin won a gift certificate for Sierra Trading Post...his favorite store....gift certificates for a ice cream store....gift certificates for a chicken restaurant...pizza certificates...and we came home with two brand new stuffed animals....it was like Christmas in October but you didn't have to pay for anything....its really quite nice all the work that they go to to throw this event for the firemen....they have already set the date for next year......I am sure that we will be there......well with that you can only imagine it was a happy day at the Moody household....today I need to work and Collin is going to pick us up lunch with some of our certificates that Collin won......simple pleasures..........sometimes are the best

Why sleep when you can play........

Why sleep when you can play.....makes perfect sense to me....my little Dillybar has decided who needs to sleep when you can play in your jumperoo......the last 3 nights Dylan had decided that his nap time is at 8:30 and that his real bed time is at 11:30 silly us.........what were we thinking...last night I thought I had it resolved...I didn't let him nap after 5:00 and we started get ready and went to bed at 8:30....Dylan sound asleep..........but at 9:30 his beautiful blue eyes opened and it was play time.........until 11:30...he was happy...just wanted to play....so tonight no nap time after 4:30 and will try to keep him up till about 9:30...........wish me luck..................

dishes are done---the house is clean---and my feet are warm

Today was a Happy day....cold but happy....
Baskin Robbins after dinner treat (2 for 1 Sundaes on Wednesdays)
Dad and Dylan in a bubble bath listening to the Samples on the I-pod
finishing the evening with Dylan playin in his jumperoo and takin in
Keith Oberman at the same time...
Winston curled up on the couch loving this rare moment he has his mom to himself
the dishes are done---the house is clean---and my feet are warm
what more could you ask for

Brisk

The weather today has been cold and we have had a steady brisk wind all day....I spent the morning in the office at a meeting then touring new listings...and am finishing the day with my wonderful dillybar and baking spice cupcakes for a Realtor Luncheon tomorrow....though our national economy is weak...and even our personal Moody household economy is weaker than usual since I am not bringing in to much income at the moment.....I am still very excited about spending our first winter together as a family....we are very blessed as a family that it doesn't take much $$$ to keep us happy...the luxury of time with our son and family and peace of mind knowing that we can pay our bills makes us feel pretty darn rich right now....in fact we still pretty much buy what we want...and do the activities that we want...I think we are just more cautious on how we spend our money....and when we do splurge we really do enjoy it...........I am now cutting coupons...and pretty much only buy things when they come on sale...as the National Economy becomes stronger and I become busier at work again....our goal is really to continue on the way we are right now...cutting coupons....watching our dollars....I of course will always buy certain items...regardless if they are on sale...but if I try to be more cautious on the things that are not as important to me...and save else where....then splurging on things for Dylan aren't such a big deal.......well time to go...Dylan is ready to play...........

Nain to the Rescue

We had a great weekend....Dylan's Nain (grandma) came up on Saturday to sit with Dylan.......Collin was suppose to be off but was offered a overtime and I had a couple of events that day....so it was really helpful that Dylan's Nain was able to make it up....plus I really think it was great that the two of them got to spend sometime together without us parents around....it is really going to be fun to watch their relationship grow........Dylan and his Nain....the weather was beautiful on Sunday and Dylan and I enjoyed our day together while Pops worked...today brings a brisk fall day here in Cheyenne......which I love...hoping to bundle up later and take a walk in the park....right now Dylan is playing in his new Jumperoo....yes this was suppose to be one of his x-mas gifts........oh well.....he is having a great time....we are going to try to get a video of it here today....he really loves it and is jumping all around like a wild man.....

Yeah its Friday

I am not quite sure why I am so happy that it is Friday...it is not like our family runs on a normal 9-5 Monday thru Friday work week....perhaps it because the presidential debates are over and the day after commentary is done...and that we can know get back to some meaningful tv time...life Dancing with the Stars....or perhaps its because we have to take Mr Mooks back to the vet today for his final check up from his surgery last week....we are hoping for good news at the Vet but it was obvious last night that Mr Mooks seemed to have taken a turn for the worse and was not feeling well.....or perhaps we will be getting the delivery of Dylan's jumperoo today in the mail....also not quite sure I am so excited about this..since it is suppose to be a x-mas present....I am really going to have to straighten up my act over this next year...it's just once I buy something for someone I want them to have it right then and there....Dylan is only 3 1/2 months old so right now not a big deal if I were to give him one of his x-mas gifts lets see uggghhhh 2 and 1/2 months earlier...but as he gets older this could be a very expensive problem for myself...having to keep replenishing the gifts I am giving him early...improvement always room for more....I have to go into work today and need to tackle a project that I have been putting off for the last 2 days...but I have finally figured out how to put it all together and will get the project taken care of today...I am helping out a fellow agent who has had some significant issues on a property that she is representing....having to do with a structural engineer report and some work that was done on the property...it is nice to have the confidence of your fellow agents in these matters...to make sure that the client, prospective home owner, and listing agent are all on the same page...........and all protected....and yeahhhh I get paid for this of course it is once we have secured a buyer and closed....business has been a little slow since my return to work after Dylan was born...perhaps part of it is my mind just isn't completely there yet...but I am becoming the go to person in the office on some of the tougher home sales and have been helping agents get what needs to be done to get a property sold....it all takes time to build a reputation of the person who can make it happen...I am really enjoying the people I work with though truly a first class team...well my Friday is getting a way from me...so much to do.....now I am not quite sure why I was so excited for Friday in the first place.......

whats wrong with this picture

Whats wrong with this picture....2 blogs in one day....I am home today with Dylan who is being a perfect little boy...will be back to work tomorrow for the rest of the week while Collin is on his 4 days off....was the first one in line this morning at Target to get my 2 Elmo live dolls....one for Dylan and one for Avery.....went on to do some additional shopping at Target and made my way to Wal Mart to get some additional shopping done....Collin and I had a very funny conversation last night....we called Megan to see if it would be ok to get Avery a Elmo live for one of Avery's gifts.....key word here in one of her gifts....meaning more than one...at least that was my intention...one gift for her b-day and one gift for x-mas...I about died when Collin stated to his sister that we would be getting the Elmo Live doll as a b-day slash x-mas gift....I was completely horrified by this...as far as I am concerned children have both a birthday and Christmas gifts regardless of how close they are born to x-mas...his response to my comments about the subject were that it happened to Megan all the time as a kid...and she turned out just fine....this is the same man that asked me the day before my birthday if I would like to work on cleaning the basement out after my doctors appointment....lets see I just turned 39...gave birth to your son....have to go to the doctor on my birthday in the first place...and you want me to work on cleaning the basement after my doctors appointment on my birthday....I don't think I need to state how the rest of that conversation went...except to say that no we did not clean out the basement on my birthday....I am not sure how such a great guy in almost every way ever even had those above thoughts leave his lips........so with that...I had a nice birthday and never stepped into the basement...Avery will be getting here Elmo Live doll for her b-day and we will be finding another gift for her for x-mas........and with that its been a good day

A quiet morning

I am up early this morning...it's a little after 6am I have read the paper...took my medicine and enjoying a cup of tea...my 4 boys are peacefully sleeping in the bedroom...I am often awake this early but rarely am I up to enjoy the peace and quiet the morning has to offer...often I am running around trying to get ready...Dylan ready...Winston ready....so that I can get ready for work....but this morning I cannot sleep...I am breathing a little better but not as good as I was after the nebulizer treatment yesterday...sorry I don't know how to spell nebulizer and it didn't come up on spell check...anyways so I am slightly frustrated and a little concerned...after a month of battling this ...it was really great yesterday afternoon just to breathe without having to work at it.....it's also possible that I am so wide awake is due to one of my medicines that I am on...not being able to sleep, mood swings, bloating, and a sick stomach are some of its side effects...thank goodness I am only on it for a week....we are already gearing up for Christmas...I know its crazy....but they have the newest Elmo Live doll out today for the holidays...its suppose to be a must have.....which is kind of a crazy idea...how does a 6 month old or even a 1 year old really care or know that its a must have toy.....I am such sucker for this stuff....but I will be waiting at are Target to open at 8:00 am this morning....my inhaler and Dylan in tow....ready to stake our claim to our limit 2 per customer Elmo Live doll.........will keep you posted...well the morning alarm has sounded for Collin to get up...that means that he will hit the snooze control at least 3 more times...but it does mean for me that I must jump in the shower and be dressed by the 3rd time the snooze control goes off.........wish me luck in my mission to retrieve my Elmo live dolls.........

Air and Cookies...........a good thing

Today I turned 39 and got the gift of breath....my asthma has been getting progressively worse over the last week or so...I had a scheduled appointment this morning with a Allergy and Asthma specialist which could not have come a day to soon...last night was a very difficult night so we set off to the doctor this morning after 2 hours at the doctors office we learned that I was breathing at about a 45% lung capacity after a nebulizer treatment at the doctors office and 4 different types of steroids and another 5 day dose of antibiotics we are hoping to get my asthma under control.......I was breathing pretty good after the nebulizer treatment but my chest is starting to tighten up again and my cough is coming back....it has been about a month since this first began....so I am tired of not feeling well...it really has only gotten kind of scary the last week or so after my last doctors appointment and round of antibiotics really did not do the trick....so we will keep you posted....its been a very nice birthday....Collin brought home flowers this morning and we went out to lunch while waiting for the meds from the pharmacy...we have birthday cookies in the oven....and enjoying simply quality family time at home........

Sunday a day for rest

It's been a very nice Sunday morning....Collin headed to work this morning so it's just me and the dilly bar today...we slept in till about 9:30 this morning and slept all night....Dylan is a sleeping champ...he has been sleeping about 10 hours straight....an occasional little drink every once in awhile...in fact if anything I have been waking him up with my hacking cough and need to go to the bathroom in the middle of the night...we are listening to a little music...as I am blogging Dylan is playing in this little play center that he sits in the middle of...he really loves his toys and enjoys playing with them...we are going to a afternoon get together with some friends from work and then going to stop by the fire station when we are done so that dad can see his son....Mr Mooks seems to be doing well....so that in turn means that Winston is also doing well...it has been a restful Sunday at the Moody household......

Winston and Mr Mooks friends for life

Winston Winston Winston....what will we do with Winston if something ever happens to Mr.Mooks....Winston has been quite concerned for Mr Mooks the last 24 hours or so...it seems as if Mr Mooks....our cat got in a cat fight...last night Collin noticed a wet spot on Mr Mooks side and after closer examination noticed their was a small whole on his side...a puncture wound oooozzzzing some pretty disgusting stuff...after a call to the Cat Doctor she informed us that most likely it was a abscessed puncture wound and that it could wait until morning....Winston as you most know loves his cat...and was very concerned and did all he could to attempt to take care of Mr Mooks...so last night we had to keep Winston from the cat...uggghhhh..anyways this morning the whole family went to the vet....the wound was pretty bad so the doctor decided to put Mr Mooks out and apply a little drainage....Winston was somewhat beside himself that we left Mr Mooks at the Vet....and has been fairly upset for most of the day....he is a little better this afternoon since he now knows that Mr Mooks is safe at home...the problem is he wants to take care of his cat....lick him....hump him...sleep with him.....nurse his best friend back to health...they gave us a plastic collar for the cat if needed....but I think we will need to put it on Winston to keep him away from his cat...Mr Mooks the champ that he is...is handling all of this with stride.....he is too cool to let something like this get him all riled up.....well we will keep you posted...Mooks is on antibiotics and back to the Dr in a week....Winston should also recover from his stressful day.........

Finally Fall has Arrived

Finally fall has arrived...the brisk wind...cool October air...and the leaves dancing across the sidewalks....I am in heaven...yesterday was a beautiful warm fall day...we went to the park...baked for the neighbor...and had a great meal of fresh salad with peppers from the farmers market and sweet tomatoes from our other neighbors garden finished off with a burger from the grill...I went about finishing the indoor decorations....put away my summer decor.....I am in love with my dishes...plates...bowls....and was able to pull out my decorative china and decor for the fall and winter months...it was like revisiting a old friend...they make me smile every time I walk by my hutches and open cupboard...well with that all the fall decorating is finished...now we can cozy up and enjoy the cold weather mother nature is sure to bring...most of our chores are done....we still need to put up the storm windows and tarp the central air but it will feel good to work out in the cool fall air and come back into a warm fall home.......

Our Big Boy

Wow is Dylan getting big...he seems to be growing quite a bit....I just bought him clothes about a month ago for this winter....which in my mind is January thru March or so....well I guess it will be his fall wardrobe...I think he will have them outgrown before we ever see January....the size he is wearing is 6 month to a year for Gymboree...with a little room to grow into...his 6-9 month Carter clothes are fitting perfectly at the moment and all his Osh Kosh 6-9 month old clothing are fitting him now...so alot of his winter suits we got for him...won't even fit him by the time the snow falls......and shoes...we bought him the cutest soft sole leather shoes that actually stay on....we bought these shoes about 3 weeks ago if that...he has already almost outgrown them...it is going to be interesting when we go into his 4 month old check up...just how big he is....I really do love dressing him everyday..I am really having fun with it all...and so far Dylan has been a willing sport...the family has the day off together and it is a beautiful fall day here in Cheyenne...so we will make sure that we get a walk to the park in...and I need to bake cookies for the neighbors who graciously let Collin use his trailer to pick up his almost new free lawn mower....and with that we will have to see what the rest of the day will bring

Happy Day

Today was a happy day...Dylan is happy and seems to love the fact that he doesn't have to go to daycare....and so far it has worked well for both Collin and I.....Collin is happy because he scored a practically new riding lawn mower for $0 dollars.....he was doing a lawn job for one of the other Realtors and noticed that this lawn mower was at this vacant house and offered buy it...the guy that owns the house said if Collin will take care of the lawn till the house sells that he can have the lawn mower....so so far Collin has about 1 hour with of work in and with the snow coming soon most likely it won't need to be mowed anymore...he brought it home today and it is really nice...it looks like it might be a year old or so...probably worth somewhere about $1000.00 or so...I am happy because my social like is starting to come around...I have 4 parties that I have been invited to over the next week or so...so I am very excited to be building new relationships here in Cheyenne........Dylan needs his mom so its time to go........until next time

Sad about peaches and bread......

Despite not feeling our best...the whole family made it's way down to our farmers market...Cheyenne has a wonderful farmers market every Saturday...it starts in the beginning of August and runs thru the first weekend of October....great produce, breads, jams, even organic beef...it just has a really great atmosphere all the hustle and bustle of shoppers going from booth to booth....checking for the best deals on the best produce....all summer I look forward to the farmers market to begin...I try to make it every Saturday morning whether I need something or not...another one of those family favorite things....anyways this Saturday was the last farmers market for the year....we have been pretty frugal with our purchases but since it was the last farmers market until next year...We went ahead and purchased some really great cranberry walnut bread...this baker comes all the way from a little town past Denver every week...I love this bread...we also splurged and got some really great peaches...the last of the season...so we bought extra....well worth it...they were the best peaches so far this season....big as softballs and so juicy but not mushy...we rounded out our shopping spree with some great yellow and purple peppers.....so we are kind of sad that this is the end of the farmers market for the season..but perhaps if we had it year around...I wouldn't cherish it and look forward to it as much as I do....one really cool thing came out of our trip to the farmers market was a flyer that we picked up about a working farm outside of Longmont...you go and spend the day at the farm...pick your own produce, pumpkins, and go on hay rides and feed all the animals...its kind of like a field trip for families.....this is going on my list as a must do next year with Dylan...I am already excited about it....I guess the one good thing about the end of the farmers market is it marks the beginning of fall....

Family Traditions.....and Halloween Lights

As a newly married couple of 2 years we are now just beginning to start our own family traditions....our own family favorites....some are brought from our childhood or even perhaps are parents childhoods...others are made and created as we go....I am not sure why I love tradition so much...or why I want to create it in my own home...perhaps its the memories that are built from it...or just the security and comfort in doing the same thing over and over....I have always been a a creature of habit....today was a day that we started a new tradition for our family...I have always decorated for the holidays...I love being outside...the childlike excitement in going thru the decorations and proudly putting them up...the visits with neighbors as they come by to chat....the final moment once the last decoration is put in place and to step back and to see what you have created...this is something that was new to Collin...this level of decorating...he was a little hesitant at first...but once we got going...he really enjoyed himself...and wanted to add even more lights....it made me happy to see the joy it brought to both of us...I can't wait until Dylan is big enough to be a full time helper in this family tradition....it is just something little that I have brought to our family that we will carry on for years to come....and as we were working thru out the day...I began to reflect on our life together....how last year at this time Dylan was just a tiny little guy in mommys tummy....his parents didn't even realize that he was already apart of our lives...we were actually on a bike trip across Missouri...this is another family favorite...though this is one that Collin had brought to our family...I always liked riding bikes...but not like this....not making a vacation out of it....we are already planning our next family bike trip....this time with Dylan....it is so amazing watching and being apart of our lives and seeing how 2 people have a child and become a family....how we meld and grow...how the things that we both love become apart of our entire life...how two individuals....well become a distinct family with our own family ideas, traditions, and favorite activities...so far its been a pretty awesome being the Moody Family from Cheyenne....and all of this over Halloween Lights...can't wait to see what emotions the darn Christmas Decorations pull out of me........until next time

The more you buy....the more you save

The more you buy...the more you save...have been our family motto for sometime...the only flaw to this theory is that once you buy it....you have to use it....or you really haven't saved....so the last 2 weeks or so we have been eating out of the pantry....no grocery shopping only...fresh veggies...fruit...and milk from the store...otherwise we have been eating out of the freezer and the pantry....we have had some interesting meals to say the least....we are down to our last 3 pork chops and some hamburger patties that have been avoided like the plague....so we will eat pork chops and probably rice this weekend and I will make a meatloaf and potatoes with the left over hamburger....its been kind of fun...we have decided to really work at being thrifty...we are already pretty thrifty for the most part....exception would be my addiction to Gymboree...which I am actually pretty good at...and only by things substantially reduced....we do buy most food in bulk at discounted prices...some of it from Sam's Club but alot of it is from our local grocery stores we watch weekly for their lost leader adds...we know what the price should be ....so if it is really low...and we use that item...we stock up...we buy like 10 to 20 of that particular item at a time....and as long as we use it....we do save a substantial amount....finally we have decided to cut coupons....I bought this little book to put all my coupons in...so cut them..put them in the book and use them when we can...we are only saving coupons on stuff that we actually use...whether its for dinner or dog food....last week we saved like $20.00 in coupons at Lowes and Target....well that's enough about being thrifty ....until next time

Back to the doctor

It was back to the doctor this morning for Dylan....he was a little more stuffed up than when we first originally went to the doctor on Monday...well all is well...we will watch him closely the next week or so....I have been on antibiotics since Wednesday and am not really seeing any real significant improvement...but I am impatient by nature so perhaps I am not giving the medicine enough time to work...Collin is also not feeling well so we will be sending him off to the doctor later today or tomorrow morning.....our goal is to get everyone well...and then to keep everyone well....Dylan is such a wonderful son....we are so lucky...he is really such a happy baby even when he is not feeling well...he loves action...he constantly want to go and play...he loves his toys...we are going to have to invest in some more big toys here shortly....he has a activity center that he really loves...he works so hard to make all the little toys spin, light up, make noise, and has a pretty impressive attention span at this point....we tried on his Halloween costume...its a little big but by Halloween it should fit...very cute...once everyone is well we are going to go get his picture taken in his Halloween costume we are hoping we have better results than his first photo session...will keep you posted...if they turn out well...you can all expect to be receiving a photo of him....fall is here and I really am hoping to feel better here in the next day or so....so that we can finish decorating and possibly drive up to Estes Park to take in the fall colors........until next time

There have been better days

Yesterday is gone and that is a good thing....both Dylan and Mom were sick...Dylan went to the doctor on Monday with a cold...we are watching him closely but he seems actually to be weathering this cold stuff better than I...I went to the doctor yesterday was giving some antibiotics that won't interfere with the breastfeeding...Collin has been working and at a week long class in Greeley so Dylan and I are managing this solo....waiting at Doctor offices with a sick baby and me being sick is not fun...then lugging everything over to the pharmacy to get my prescription filled with Dylan in tow...we had to stop twice to breastfeed...I have a sinus infection along with a pretty good flare up of my asthma....so everything seems twice as long or twice as heavy when you can't breathe...the good news is that I am feeling a little better today and can actually breathe without coughing and wheezing....Dylan is also managing well...we both slept pretty well and making the most of such a pretty day here in Cheyenne...also Tuesday we made the decision to pull Dylan from day care for the time being...we have been discussing this for sometime....we just don't think he really likes day care and is not adapting to it as well as we had hoped...we will be able to manage just fine for the most part without it...Dylan can go to work with me quite a bit and Collin really only works 10 24 hour shifts a month so I should be able to schedule most of my appointments around that for work...not to mention that business is a little slower than the first part of the year...back to the daycare thing...when I took him to the doctor on Monday I asked if we should hold him out of daycare for his cold he said no...and also asked the daycare and they also said no....the Doctor advised us that as long as he is in daycare that he would be a sick little boy most of the winter...its just the way daycare is....so when I dropped him off on Tuesday for daycare...this is my one really busy day at work every week....and I picked him up 5 hours later...they said he had fussed most of the 5 hours and had not eaten at all....I took him home quite worried...he did not fuss the rest of the day and ate very well....it was right then that the final decision was made to keep him out of daycare for now....he doesn't deserve to be sick all winter and then have to be in daycare where he is not happy ...so with that he is now at home with Mom or Dad....happy and eating well...and hopefully he won't get sick this winter.....

Dylan in his first starring role on the big screen

It's been sometime since we have blogged....I think about a week or so...and in that time...Collin and I had our 2nd wedding anniversary...we celebrated with a Rockies baseball game...since it was going to be for our anniversary and Dylan's first Rockies game...we splurged and got really great club level seats...Dylan also had his first starring role on the big screen at the game...sometime during the 2nd inning they came and took video of Dylan for the jumbo tron screen....Dylan took all the excitement in stride...his parents on the other hand were quite proud and even though the Rockies got demolished it was the best game ever as far as we were concerned....

A week of Grandparents

Dylan is a very lucky boy he is going to get to see his Grandma and Grandpa Davis tomorrow in Rapid City...followed by a visit with a couple of my good friends...I can't wait for my mom to see how much he has changed over the last couple of months...he also got to see his Grandma Moody this last Sunday...which I believe he will call her Nain....this is Welsh for Grandmother...new for me but this is what Collin called his Grandmother and it seems only fit for the tradition to continue.... Dylan is really quite lucky with 4 grandmothers and 3 grandfathers it will be interesting to see what names he or they come up with for him to call them.....he is coming up on 3 months...and what a fun age...he is so animated and really quite a joy....we are hoping that the car ride to Rapid City goes well tomorrow about 5 hours.....he did great last time so we are hoping for a repeat performance...keep your fingers crossed....well thats it for now...we promise more pictures when we get back........

Calamari, Peaches, and Corn

Saturday was all about the food....we started the morning off at our locals farmers market...they do such a nice job for Cheyenne...I really enjoy going to it every Saturday morning this time of year...its hustle and bustle of local craftsmen, bakers, and farmers selling their goods....we purchased peaches and corn this Saturday...next weekend we will be stocking up on extra peaches since it most likely will be the last haul of Colorado peaches this year...I will also make sure I get some fresh baked bread next Saturday...it's a little steep in price but it is so goooood....after the farmers market we made our way home....and then decided to head down to the Greek Festival which was held at Frontier Park about 10 minute walk...I had to laugh once we got their...it just seemed so odd to have a Greek Festival here in Cheyenne but it really was great fun and good food....we had Gyros, Calamari, these little fried donut things with honey and walnuts on them.....we enjoyed all the people that attended the event and the local Greeks that entertained us with dancing....so all in all we ate our way thru Saturday...

Dylan the crying lion

About a month ago I started concerning myself with what Dylan would be for Halloween...not that I didn't have plenty of other important things to worry about...I mean it was only 3 month away....but there was really no stopping me...I began searching online for the perfect baby costume for Dylan...I finally found theee outfit..it is a darling lion costume...not just any lion costume....I wanted only this one particular costume....I searched for a company that had this costume in stock...I finally found one and immediately ordered it...once I received the costume it was a bear costume...not the lion costume..I immediately returned the bear and attempted to reorder the lion costume only to be told that it was not in stock and they expected it to be in stock by mid September....well that would not do....that would still give me at least 45 days..but what if they did not get them in...or perhaps every other mother wanted this same costume and due to such high demand Dylan would not get his...I couldn't stand the thought of Dylan in any other costume...my heart was set on this particular lion costume....so with that I searched and searched...finally last week....I found it...in stock....ready to ship....I ordered it immediately....and though they said it would ship the next 24 hours...I expected the worse....after quite a extensive search with no luck...I figured that they really did not have it in stock and that it would be on back order or something...but with great surprise Dylan's little lion costume showed up last night....I immediately tore into the packaging and without a moment lost put this most darling outfit on Dylan...it truly is adorable....though it will need a little alterations it has met all of my expectations....only one problem...Dylan...he doesn't like it...he started crying....I think its the mane...he hates it....I just did not expect this...the little baby model was so happy and so cute in the little lion costume...but Dylan definitely was not....so I am somewhat disappointed....I mean it really should have been obvious to me that children at his age....would hate such a outfit put on them....but my dream is still alive....though reality is sinking in that it might just be a dream....that we might never get out the front door with this wonderful outfit on.....we will work on it over the next 45 days.....if all goes as planned you will all be getting a darling picture of our baby Dylan smiling gleefully in his little lion costume...

Christmas has come early this year for Winston

Over the last 6 months we have been discussing getting Winston a new wagon...but found them to be fairly outrageous in cost and decided that his existing Wagon works well enough...you see Winston goes almost everywhere in his wagon...on walks...to the park...parades...he loves his wagon..he feels safe in his wagon..and best of all he does not have to walk....Winston's wagon has steadily been deteriorating over the last year ithas masses of duct tape on the handle..a kitchen knob screwed thru the bottom and lots of metal staples holding it together...as we went on a walk last night we were all quite embarrassed on how loud and squeaky his poor red wagon has become...the front bracket fell off on the way home last night...we somewhat decided then that we would be getting Winston a new wagon...but during tonight's walk the back of the wagon fell off as we crossed a busy street on the way to the park...it was right at that moment that the decision was definite that Winston would be getting a new red wagon...now comes the wagon....wow so many choices....of course no ole wagon would do for My Winston...only a top of the line...of course only a red wonderful wagon would do it took alot of justifying for both of us.....lets see a whole 15 minutes...Winston will be the proud owner of a new red wagon...not just any red wagon but a F-410 Berlin Sport Wagon...this beauty is American made in fact Amish made known as the safest on the market...no tip...this is a must for my wonderful Winston...the highest quality pneumatic air tires will allow Winston to go 4 wheel in or in the park...nice safety rail and its a tough beefy wagon...much tougher looking than his old wimpy wagon....and all of this is only 7 lawn mowing jobs.....I guess you can say that Christmas has come early for Winston this year...

Coming to you live from work

This is coming to you live from my office at work....I decided to bring Dylan with me this morning to the office....wow he has been asleep since 10:00 this morning...he woke up briefly to nurse and then was back to sleep...he has been a real angel and I have gotten quite a bit done this morning....right now he is snoring....so cute...well I must get back to work....until later...by the way things are starting to pick back up here in the office ..........good news

Sunday Morning

I could almost pinch myself....we are going to have 2 days in a row without anything that we have to do on our calendar...this might be a first since Dylan has been born...we have no idea what we are going to do today...perhaps waste it away playing with Dylan and laying around the house...

A Simple Family Day

No lawns to mow...no open houses to work...no company to entertain...a simple family day for the Moody's....a couple of chores to do...helped the neighbors with a little painting on their foundation and enjoyed a little lunch with them....made our way to Sam's Club and Gymborees...had a nice dinner at home.....and planning on going for a walk to the park to finish out the evening....