Babe in Boyland

Aaron Turns 40

noreply@blogger.com (Andie) — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 03:52:00 +0000

When I met Aaron he was 25. My, my how time has flown. He had just come back home from college when we met. There was an instant connection between us and I knew that we would be together for a long time. However, I never pictured him as a forty-year-old man. I guess I was always the one to live in the moment and took one day at a time. I was never that girl who fast-forwarded into our future and pictured marriage, kids, buying groceries together and celebrating big milestone birthdays. At first, Aaron wasn't thrilled with the idea of a get-together. I think it really boiled down to not wanting to face the fact that he is turning the big 4-0. I am starting to believe that guys take this a little harder than gals. But, I can honestly say, I'm not jumping for joy over it either. Getting old scares me. Truth? I don't care how far south my boobs fall or how flat my butt is at that age. I don't even care how many wrinkles have shown up on my face or what I weigh. As long as my kids are happy and my husband loves me unconditionally, I'd say forty would be pretty awesome.

Once everything started to fall into place with the invitations being sent out, picking his birthday location, etc., he eventually came around. I received a text from him the day before stating how excited he was. In the end, he had a great time spending time with his friends and family.

This is the pre-birthday mini party with the boys. Landon is goofy and fun. I think we've established that by his personality I capture on a daily basis. So, what does Landon (and Liam) get his Dad? Gag gifts - old man glasses and a "snore pin". I was kinda' diggin' the snore pin. I think Aaron should definitely give that a try...for everyone's sake in the house. Just sayin'.

Welcome to the Fabulous Forties, hubbers!

Water Buddies

noreply@blogger.com (Andie) — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 03:12:00 +0000

I find myself forgetting to take shots of the boys during their bath from time to time because I am so scared that Liam will slip and fall. The last thing I need is for Liam to hurt himself and put himself back in a cast or the camera to take a nice swim. This was the first time the boys were able to play a little basketball together (a new Christmas toy from his Aunt Suzie). Liam wasn't so much into the game as he was popping the balls out of the basket. Typical toddler activity, I suppose. He was hysterical. I really have to remember to switch to live view more often.

There's nothing like a "pit fart" in the tub. Landon recently discovered that it sounds SO much better when he's wet (and the echo doesn't hurt). *sigh*

A Little Sneak Peek

noreply@blogger.com (Andie) — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 14:59:00 +0000

After taking a nice little hiatus over the holidays and getting back to other things that are just as important in my life, I broke down and scheduled a family photo shoot. The break was nice, I'm not going to lie. But, there was a part of me missing during that time.

I've have said before that this particular blog is strictly for my family happenings and photos. Well, I wanted to share this session with you because I thought it was worth the share. How adorable are these kids? And why did I wait so long to get on the saddle again? I was back, baby...and it was beautiful.

It was SUPER cold outside (more windy than anything). I had to bundle the babies.

If you want to see more from this shoot or others I've done, you can visit my site. I hope everyone has a wonderful week!

Project 365 {2012}: Week Four in Review

noreply@blogger.com (Andie) — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 04:38:00 +0000

January 21st: Dad plays Tickle Monster. Liam loves to be tickled.

January 22nd: Landon snuggled up to watch TV.

January 23rd: Nothing exciting happened this day so I played with one of my lenses.

January 24th: Liam had Speech Therapy.

January 25th: I caught Landon and Liam playing together. I love Liam's laugh.

January 26th: It rained pretty hard and needed to snap a photo to try out a new action I made.

January 27th: One of Landon's chores is to help me with laundry. He actually likes it. Also, this day was Aaron's 40th birthday (he had to work).

My Wonderful Life in a Whopping 20 Minutes

noreply@blogger.com (Andie) — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 15:16:00 +0000

Liam has been cracking us up lately. He is always laughing at the goofiest things. The other day he was chilling out in our bed with Dad and watched closely as I blow dried my hair. Apparently, what would normally be dull, everyday moments to us are fascinating for curious toddlers. As I was stroking the brush through my hair (flicking my hair was more like it) he laughed so hard he lost his breath. I kept doing it because Liam has the best, most infectious laugh on the planet. What a goofy kid I'm raising. Then, just last night, I was in the living room playing with the boys when Liam's laugh caught my attention. I looked up and saw Landon sticking his stomach out so Liam could smack it and nuzzle it with his nose. This kid laughs at everything. It could be a funny face, a funny sound, flicking hair, you name it.

Oh, and in case you haven't noticed a little update section at the top right of my sidebar (which is where I think it would be easier to find out more info). Liam's Chromosome Disorder test came back normal. Very exciting news. However, when we went back to the Ortho after being in the brace for a month, supposed to be getting the thing off next month, she says, "We'll see you in three months.". Huh? I may have my bad days, and Lord do I have them, but the math didn't add up. She didn't specify as to why, nor did I ask. All I do know is he's continuing to do fantastic and she's been doing great up until now so I didn't question it. And, I don't think she would take these things lightly anyway. So, as of now, it looks like another three months in the brace for Mr. McLiam. Fingers crossed all goes well in the meantime.

By the way, my kids hate clothes. ~~Good~~ Great news? Laundry gets caught up a tad bit faster.

Everything these days is "ta da" with Liam. He turns around, I turn around, I walk into a room, pass a room when he's in it, open a door, or play peek-a-boo it's..."ta da" (his version of it anyway). Very cute. And, it's clearly impossible for him to say it without smiling.

I think it's safe to say that Liam's Indian name would be Smiles-A-Lot. Yes?

Oh, and I would like to give a shout-out to my husband for his 40th birthday. Happy Birthday, Aaron!

Up On the Dogs

noreply@blogger.com (Andie) — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 23:50:00 +0000

Liam's moving at mach speeds. I went from being worried about if he would walk normal again to "Holy crap!". I blink my eyes and POOF. The burning question in our house lately is, "Where's Liam?". Not that I wish to go back in time when he couldn't walk, crawl, sit up, and so on, but I kinda' miss those "easy" days. Just a little bit ago, I turned my back for about 10 seconds only to find Liam in the bathroom playing with our toilet paper. What a mess THAT was. When I discovered it, Landon said, "Oh yeah, Liam got into the TP." You think, Landon? Thanks for helping out, buddy. Liam is walking so much better. I've noticed that his limp is improving as he puts more pressure on his right leg. He takes my hand for guidance as if he actually needs help getting from A to B. I'm really proud of him for what he's doing.

And, of course, the TP shot. Little stinker.

Project 365 {2012}: Week Three in Review

noreply@blogger.com (Andie) — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 17:09:00 +0000

For starters, I hope this new layout is complimentary to all/most computer screens out there. I changed my look, not only because it's a new year, but because I dislike scrolling side to side and thought I would make life/viewing a little easier for my loyal readers. I went a little subtle this time. You know me, I'm all about colors - the brighter, the better (at least for my blog). I like the simplicity of it. If you notice anything out of place again (e.g. pictures overlapping), please drop a line to say so. I also created a new watermark for my blog since I lost some others when my computer was restored. Maybe it's obvious, maybe it's not. But, I created this watermark to fit better with the theme/idea/title. It's BIB, with one of the B's turned backwards to make it look like a butterfly. Obvious? It's fitting, right? Thoughts?

I'm loving taking pictures every day. I've chosen to continue this on my own because it's helped me remember dates of surgeries, appointments, or just big life happenings from months ago in general. Without it, I don't know how I would have remembered. Does this become stressful at times? Absolutely. There are days that I either don't want to pick up a camera at all or I get involved and forget to. I'm hoping to continue down this path for years to come. It's a blast!

January 14th: Landon wrote a series of books. I love his imagination.

January 15th: Landon being the ham that he is had to hit me up for a silly picture. "Hey mom, look at this!"

January 16th: I had just taken a few photos of Liam playing quietly in his room when I spotted our keys dangling in front of me. Why not, right?

January 17th: Liam had ST. We had tornado and severe thunderstorm warnings. Needless to say, we packed it up and hit the hallway.

January 18th: I found an old candle I bought for Aaron for his room back in '00. I can believe he still has it!

January 19th: Landon made himself a Solar Car that came with a book I bought him. He loves anything educational or things he can build. Future Engineer, perhaps?

January 20th: A bush outside of our home. I love the bulbs on it, especially in the winter after a good ice storm. No ice yet, but the year is still young.

Project 365 {2012}: Week Two in Review

noreply@blogger.com (Andie) — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 02:41:00 +0000

I've been so incredibly busy these last several days. It seems like I've disappeared from blogger world for what seems like an eternity. If it's not one thing in this house, it's another. I think I am slowly getting back on the saddle after re-installing my entire world onto our new and improved system. I'm pretty sure it took me a grand total of 24 hours...and I'm exhausted. I want to say thank you for your patience. As my sister would say, "You're a keeper." Now, back to the reason I originally started this post.

January 7th: Liam thought he would help himself to some apples. Yum.

January 8th: As strange as this might be, this is what I woke up to Sunday morning. I have no idea why there would be toilet paper in our kitchen.

January 9th: I caught Peyton snuggling with his favorite blanket.

January 10th: Landon built bird houses and other fun things while playing with his work shop.

January 11th: Liam is quickly learning how to work his baby gate. God help us all.

January 12th: Liam turned 29 months. He is such a big boy now!

January 13th: Liam's OT played with Liam in the mirror while she brushed his teeth. I love her.

Liam turned 29 Months

noreply@blogger.com (Andie) — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 22:48:00 +0000

He actually turned 29 months on the 12th, but long story short, I had a major computer issue to deal with and ran late...on pretty much everything (even losing pictures and other goodies in the process). Boo. It's amazing how dependent we are on technology. I couldn't get over how much of a goober head I was without it. I felt lost, and I missed connecting with my internet buds.

Liam is moving along. PT will be starting soon, and I couldn't be more excited to continue on our journey. Bathtime is still a favorite. He's in love with all kinds of music (including daily performances by us). He loves to smile and laugh. He has been playing "Tickle Monster" a lot lately. He is walking independently, but still very slow/cautious. PT will be a breeze. He's learning more and more in the vocabulary department and what the words mean. He's as sharp as a tack. He makes silly faces and tests us all the time. I could go on for days about his accomplishments/improvements. Bottom line? I'm in love with our Herculiam. He makes me so happy and proud to be his Mama.

I actually took his 29 month photo(s) on the 9th when the weather was decent. My computer conked out and lost those pictures. The day I took these it snowed outside. A lightbulb went off and I thought some snowy photos might actually be a nice touch. He was very excited about catching snow flakes in the palms of his hands as well as on his tongue. Silly kid. At first I was a little bummed about losing the photos, but the saying, "everything happens for a reason" is something I have learned to live by and accept. The snowy photos turned out better anyway. Glass half full, baby!

I will more than likely take pictures of his 2.5 year mark (30 months) and then take six month photos from there to keep it a little uniform for my own peace of mind.

Oh, and by the way, I realize my blog is wonky. My pictures are too big for the photo space available and my header is as big as Texas (which requires scrolling over). Hopefully soon I will be able to change my blog look for those who have smaller monitor screens. Mine's pretty big which explains the large layout. I'm working on it...

The Hedge

noreply@blogger.com (Andie) — Sat, 07 Jan 2012 16:45:00 +0000

Before our little one was to be put in a cast, I was thinking about all the things he wouldn't be able to do while he was in it. So, we went to the park to get some last-minute photos in of all of us playing and having a good time. Now, it's a bit of the same thing, but this time I'm thinking the opposite - what can Liam do now? We went back to the park (a different one) where Liam was able to swing in a toddler swing again. The brace isn't as bad as I thought it was going to be. We were told he wouldn't be able to walk or utilize these fun contraptions while he was still in it. Either we're doing something wrong or he's proving himself to be a rare case. He's been up on his feet (standing by himself), taking a step or two on his own, riding ride-on toys, sitting in his feeding seat, and of course, swinging without any problems. He's obviously doing something right because we got an exciting report that he won't be in the brace for a year, but around two months. I am so proud of him. We all are.

I know I sound like a broken record majority of the time, sorry.

When you experience something so traumatic, like the loss of use of your child's legs, pictures like this give me hope. It will get better.

Then, we moved on to the big boy swing.

Liam kisses himself in the mirror.

I promise I didn't deliberately put pictures #7 and #8 together (as a split photo - Liam's top half and bottom half). But, looking back I couldn't help but laugh at how they fell when loading them into the post. Funny.

Breakin' Free

noreply@blogger.com (Andie) — Sat, 07 Jan 2012 16:22:00 +0000

It has been very cold and windy here lately. We had snow flurries the other day, but nothing to really speak of or get excited about. In the last few days or so we've been able to endure some outdoor time without feeling Jack Frost nipping at every inch of our bodies. I took full advantage of those days and gave my kids some much needed fresh air. They absolutely loved getting out and spreading their wings after what has seemed like a long hiatus. We broke out the chalk and ride-on toys. It was great knowing that little Liam got a chance to ride his toy instead of just sitting there in a wheelchair or lying in the grass while Landon had his good time. And, now that he's getting into ~~drawing~~ scribbling, he loved our chalk time even more - something he could do with Landon. Before, it was about chucking them across the driveway, chasing them down and chucking them again. He's really coming along nicely. I think what makes me the happiest right now is how Landon praises him for everything. I can't help but smile, and Liam really enjoys it. His little smirk says a lot, but his eyes say it all when they light up with the gargantuan feeling of accomplishment.

My children, ladies and gents - goofy and goofier.

Love. Security. Comfort.

It's been a little while since I've posted, or visited blogs. Did anyone make New Year resolutions? How are they coming along? I've made some "goals" for myself. I've told myself to be a little more patient with my kiddos (and husband), drink less coffee and more diet green tea, lose 15 lbs.(I'm down 5lbs. already), take less pictures (I take A LOT of photos in one setting thinking I'm going to miss something, which crowds my memory), and cut down on computer time (FB, editing, etc.).

At any rate, I hope this will be your best year yet. Happy trails!

Project 365 {2012}: Week One in Review

noreply@blogger.com (Andie) — Sat, 07 Jan 2012 15:33:00 +0000

December 31st: Aaron and I went to a New Years wedding. I loved having wife and hubby time!

January 1st: Liam relaxed in his toy tub.

January 2nd: Liam found playing with my New Years headband was quite entertaining.

January 3rd: After waking up from a long nap, Liam was ready to show off his sweet faces. Naps are a beautiful thing.

January 4th: Landon and Liam bounced on the bed for a little while until Landon's art work caught Liam's eye. It was all downhill from there.

January 5th: Liam had an appointment with the Geneticist.

{update: Liam had blood work done for a Chromosome Disorder. We won't know the results for awhile. If they don't find anything, they'll move on to the next test.}

January 6th: I took the boys to the park. Liam had fun on the swings for the first time since his cast had been removed. Nice day, too - 65 degrees!

Project 365: Week 52

noreply@blogger.com (Andie) — Mon, 02 Jan 2012 00:44:00 +0000

Wow, we're finally to the end of our road. I hope everyone had a nice New Years, and I wish nothing but blessings for everyone in 2012. I will continue to document my life every day throughout the year going forward. I think it's a great idea (not sure who thought of it first). Also, I'm pretty certain I won't be doing link-ups for 2012 since I'm fairly sure my year is going to be very busy with Herculiam, and lately I've been late or just plain forgetful. So, I think I'll be taking a break from that - one less thing I have to remember and a few extra steps I don't have to include. Another thing is the collages. They take a little extra time, and if my computer is running slow, I lose interest...quickly. One of my resolutions is to be as stress-free as possible. I'm a perfectionist (which explains my desire to change things frequently), and it stresses me out to have to do extra work daily/weekly. I'm lightening my load, peeps.

359. Christmas Eve at the In-Laws' house.
360. Christmas Day/morning with our babies.
361. Liam learned that nose dives are ridiculously fun.
362. Liam went to the doctor only to get a fantastic and very unexpected report. His brace will not be on a year, but two more months! We couldn't be happier.
363. Our Mr. Landonato Head shows Mr. Potato Head how it's done.
364. Landon got new snow boots. I have a strange feeling he will be wearing them quite often.
365. Landon's besties came over for a long visit.

Mr. Landonato Head

noreply@blogger.com (Andie) — Sat, 31 Dec 2011 00:23:00 +0000

Since Liam has been in therapy he has discovered new things, such as a Mr. Potato Head. All these new toys have taught him quite a few things; how to pretend play, improve his fine motor and problem solving skills, as well as teach him body parts just to name a few. Mr. Potato Head has plenty of body parts to explore and more, including those fun accessories. But, I'm not telling you anything you don't already know. I've said it before on different occasions, Landon somehow has a fascination with baby toys. I'll find him laying on the floor in Liam's room playing with big wooden puzzles, rolling a shopping cart around as if he were at a real supermarket, or playing with some sort of Fischer-Price concoction. It's a sure thing that Landon doesn't have a problem with pretend play. The other day I caught Landon pretending to be Mr. Potato Head and thought I would snap a couple of pictures to prove how funny, creative, or just plain goofy my kid really is.

Fantastic News

noreply@blogger.com (Andie) — Thu, 29 Dec 2011 18:49:00 +0000

I know a lot of you have been following the progress of Liam. Some of you may need some info. So, I'll fill you in and keep it short and sweet.

Liam had to be put in a body cast post surgery on his groin/hip area because of Hip Dysplasia and Hip Dislocation. Normally the doctors would catch this in the beginning (0-3 months). But, because he was so flexible as a baby, they missed it. I had his Pedi call a Pedi Ortho doctor to find out what is going on and why he was limping. From there, the hip issue was detected, he had surgery, placed in a body cast for three months, and then in a brace to hold everything in place. The brace was supposed to be on a year.

Well, the good news now is Liam went back to the Pedi Ortho for a check-up appointment to see if there were any adjustments needed for the brace. They always do an x-ray every time he goes in. And, as always, he's gotten good reports. Turns out, his hip is doing better than expected and his brace is due to come off in or around two months! You don't know how happy I was to get that news on Tuesday. I started thinking about all the things he would be able to do this summer and so on. Of course, PT is going to come back into play here shortly to help him gain the strength he needs to walk normal again. Now, we just wait for our new chapter to begin. Can't wait!

In the meantime, here are some photos of Liam these last few days showing us how happy, adorable, and wild he is. Definitely a wild man.

This is him bouncing on the bed and falling face first for fun.

One...

Two...

Threeeeeee!

And, of course, cracking himself up.

These were taken after we returned home from the doctor's office.

Liam has developed a new love for his room. It must have something to do with all of his toys being in there. It must! I even catch Landon in Liam's room playing with baby toys from time to time. Liam tugs at his gate to let me know he's ready to go in or if he's ready to come out. I was comforted knowing that everything was right on schedule, so him move in all different directions didn't bother me as much. I was finally at ease knowing he wasn't some porcelain doll that could break with the slightest touch.

I was playing with Scene feature on my beast. I don't know what possessed me to do it, but definitely something I fail to get around to.

Love the Elvis hair.

Shhhhh, I think I hear something.

Food? What!

By the way, I'm not sure why links are showing up throughout my posts, but I apologize. Don't click on them. They are iPad advertisements. Anyone else having this issue, or know how to permanently fix it? I think I temporarily fixed it, but I have to change some of my words in order for it not to link. Very strange.

Christmas All Around

noreply@blogger.com (Andie) — Thu, 29 Dec 2011 02:19:00 +0000

To start the Christmas weekend off we went to my In-Laws for a Christmas Eve get-together. This was nothing short of exciting with a random, "Hey, while we're walking around the neighborhood burning dinner off our thighs, let's go caroling.". I was nowhere near prepared and a little embarrassed to say the very least. But, it was all in good fun, and a few neighbors thought it was so fun in fact, they decided to give us a good clap at the end, as well as take the time out to video tape our little spur-of-the-moment charade. *gasp* That's all I need is to become a new YouTube sensation, or better yet, a YouTube joke. It was fun, but I'm hoping next time (if there is a next time) I can be a little more prepared...to call everyone I know.

Landon was the knock 'n run guy.

Antsy, uncooperative kiddos and thirty-something frames later, this is "the one". I'll take it!

These are the bloopers. When you're busy setting up a tripod and adjusting settings for lighting, it's amazing what you can capture during the in-between times - facial expressions, people talking, sneezing, etc. They make for some pretty fun photographs.

Aaron: What is going on?

Mom: Evan, stop that.

Jen: It's okay mom, I'll just sing him a song. He'll be fine. "Ohhhhh holy......"

Evan: TAKE A PICTURE OF MEEEEEE!!

Dad: I think I'm gonna pass out.

Looks as though Mamaw and Papaw are the only ones in the Christmas spirit.

Dan: Why are we taking this picture again?

Jen: You better knock that dirty look off your face, Dan. I mean it.

Landon: I can't believe I got clothes for Christmas. How lame.

Liam: Oh man, I think I'm gonna be sick.

Mom: I think Liam just threw up. That's hilarious.

Dad: At least they're your shoes and not mine. *devilish laugh*

Here is the good one. Well, with the exception of Papaw's "high on Christmas" look.

After we left we went to a local park in town to see all the pretty Christmas lights before heading home.

Then, we had our little Christmas the morning of. I love watching my boys' faces light up. Liam finally got into the spirit...of ripping paper. I think he had more fun doing that than seeing a new toy magically revealed. Every time the paper would make a ripping sound, he would let out a big laugh. Landon got tickled just watching him.

That afternoon Aaron and I had our annual PJ Potluck Christmas gathering. We usually have a good turnout and the food is always de-lish. We had a wonderful time the entire holiday weekend. There was never a dull moment between the two sets of families.

I hope everyone enjoyed their weekend as much as we did!

project 365: week 51

noreply@blogger.com (Andie) — Sat, 24 Dec 2011 00:54:00 +0000

Gah! One more week left of 2011 and then it's hello 2012! I'm hoping our year will be a little better, more informative, or maybe just a little less stressful. Fingers crossed.

352. Honestly, I was running out of time in the day so I took a quick photo of my hubby watching football.

353. Landon started a new chore - crushing cans.
354. Liam learned quickly that he could get anything he wanted with his baby blues.
355. Liam cuddled up with his therapist. So sweet.
356. Liam pulled up and stood by himself (with a little assistance).
357. Liam channels his inner diva. Who said we don't have a girl?!
358. Landon and Liam colored together for the first time.

I Heart Faces: Holiday Bokeh

noreply@blogger.com (Andie) — Fri, 23 Dec 2011 20:46:00 +0000

This one is a little bittersweet for me. It's Liam first pair of jammies he was able to put on since his body cast removal. He is also on his knees in this picture which is a huge accomplishment for him. Since this picture had been taken, he is on his feet slowly working his legs to walk just in time for the holiday. Best. Christmas. Gift. Ever! We are so proud of our little monkey.

For more Holiday Bokeh photos, go to:

Little Diva Within

noreply@blogger.com (Andie) — Fri, 23 Dec 2011 03:59:00 +0000

As Aaron was getting ready for work this morning, Liam thought that putting on a fashion show might just keep Daddy from leaving by being his adorable self. When that didn't work, he thought standing (his new thing) for his Dad might do the trick. He grabbed my hat as well as a handmade scarf of mine and motioned to put them on. People have said that Liam is too pretty to be boy (Landon, too). I think he proved them to be right today. Big blue eyes, sandy curls, dimples in his cheeks AND cute accessories? You betcha'! Liam tolerates hats for a minute or two, but then they just become play things. Landon has been a trooper himself throughout Liam's process of change and newness. He jumps for joy and praises the heck out of Liam when he does something amazing, which is becoming more often these days. I can tell that Landon is excited to see improvement because he knows that it won't be long before he can run around with him again.

Seductive is his middle name. Watch out ladies.

SAFE!!

This is Liam actually trying to walk. He just needs a little confidence, and strength in his right leg to do it. Won't be long!

This is typical in our household. Liam plays intently while Landon focuses on a TV show.

Happy Holidays from Landon and Liam

noreply@blogger.com (Andie) — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 14:51:00 +0000

It's hard to believe that Christmas festivities start this weekend. To be honest, even though I hear Christmas music everywhere and have to fight crowds and holiday traffic every time I leave the house, it still hasn't sunk in yet. It's not as cold as it should be this time of year, nor has there been any sight of snow in the forecast. Anyone else getting snow?

This year for the boys' Christmas pictures I decided to use lights for their background. I saw it on another blog recently and thought I would give it a try. Landon was in a foul mood and Liam was getting faster by the minute. He would give me "the look" as he scooted away as if he were testing me. I just went with it. I used a few of the red and green Christmas shirt pictures for our Christmas cards this year, but the unedited versions. I got extremely busy and lost track of time. I edited them shortly after the cards were ordered when my chaotic life died down a bit so I could share them at a later time. I even played with different types of backdrops and lighting and added some fun PJ pictures. Here are the edited versions. I hope everyone was good this year and gets lots-o-goodies!

Happy Holidays to you and yours.

Color Him Sneaky

noreply@blogger.com (Andie) — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 02:47:00 +0000

Liam has been scooting on his hands and knees, rolling all over the place and pulling up on just about anything he can get his little paws on. I'm pretty sure he's enjoying this new-found freedom that the cast couldn't give him for a few months. Liam has recently discovered he can pull at the leaves of our Fica tree plant sitting in the corner of our dining room. Who needs presents when household items are what they really want the most, right? Also, he starts at one end of the great room and ends up on the other side in seconds. He's definitely a sneaky boy...and fast. He's not quite to his feet yet but we're getting there slowly. When people say kids are resilient, that is truly an understatement for this kid. In the last couple of weeks Liam has come so far and smiles every day when he accomplishes something he's never done before. He's night and day. He's proud. We're proud. The title toddler hasn't been one to call his own for awhile, but lately it's all he has been. He's movin' at mach speeds and it won't be too long before I wake up and discover Liam is ~~walking~~ running around our house. I can't wait to see that day...again. But, I think I speak for everyone in our home.

I started working on this post a little at a time yesterday because I was being pulled in different directions. Since then, and because I didn't feel like changing my entire post, I have an update. Liam IS on his feet now. He pulled up on me for the first time today. He's never been happier or proud of himself. Landon helped by running for the camera so I could at least get the FIRST attempt at it. Landon was quick to snap and now I have proof that our little man is moving right along and obviously accomplished something magnificent. He's not walking just yet, just pulling up and standing. We're on our way!

Busted.

Dreaming of the outdoors.

What does Liam do when he wants something? He tugs at my pants as he looks up at me with his big baby blues. Very smart, Liam. Very smart.

Project 365: Week 50

noreply@blogger.com (Andie) — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 15:10:00 +0000

345. Our Christmas stockings
346. We finally put batteries in Landon's old dino for Liam. Liam loves that thing!
347. It wouldn't be Christmas at our house without a selfie taken, ornament style.
348. Liam's 28th month picture.
349. Liam trying new positions in his brace. I suppose he's trying to find what works and what doesn't. Goofy kid.
350. Liam fed himself for the first time. He loves apples and cinnamon for breakfast.
351. Landon's PJ day at school. Landon's rule: We are to wear our PJs, too!

Liam reunites with an old flame

noreply@blogger.com (Andie) — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 22:41:00 +0000

Liam and I played in his room for a little while a few days ago after I cleaned out his closet. I love having Liam in there with me, but man does he make a mess. Cleaning + toddler = no good. It's almost impossible. He pulled out some toys and got busy. I caught him playing with bowling pins, balls, a few of Landon's old toys and such. But, nothing compared to or had given Liam greater pleasure than his Buzz Lightyear ride-on toy. It was heart-breaking knowing they had been separated for so long. He got a taste of the wind blowing through his locks and the open road on his tiny feet again and now that's all he wants to do. It was like reuniting with an old flame. All that was missing was a little Kenny G. Now every time we go in his room he's pointing to his ride-on toys while grunting, kicking, squealing, you name it. It's fun to watch. I'm just happy he's able to get back in the game some. Freedom, baby!

Liam turns 28 months

noreply@blogger.com (Andie) — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 22:21:00 +0000

It's hard to believe that we are inching closer to the three year mark. I really don't know where the time went. I've been so busy trying to find answers through doctors and therapists as well as making appointments along the way, I blinked and he grew up. He will always be my baby, though.

Liam's latest is he is humming various songs around the house and playing Pat-A-Cake. He wasn't clapping his hands on cue before, but has a knack for it now. When I sing Pat-A-Cake to him, he instantly puts his tiny little hands together, claps and smiles. He will continue to clap just so I will continue singing. He loves music. He hums, "I Love You" (the Barney song) and "Farmer in the Dell" to name a couple. He's getting up on his knees now and sometimes I'll catch him in a crawling position scooting himself across the floor. Pretty cute. We don't put him in his wheelchair as much anymore because we want him to build as much muscle as possible.

Liam's next Ortho appointment is Dec. 27th - a check-up to see how he's adjusting to the new brace. He goes in to see a Geneticist on Jan. 5th. I'm hoping we'll know more soon. Someone mentioned that Weisskopf takes a long time to hear anything back, so if I don't post quick updates, that is why. I have a feeling we'll be waiting awhile for those answers (or at least test results) - maybe a couple of months.

Wish us luck!

In the meantime, here is Liam's 28th month photo:

Project 365: Week 49

noreply@blogger.com (Andie) — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 16:47:00 +0000

338. My Sister came by to pick Landon up for her Secret Santa weekend. This was a last minute snap shot for our Thanksgiving sign project. I love her sense of humor. The sign reads: World's Happiest Genius (upside down for a good laugh)

339. Liam took a real bath after waiting three long months. I would be excited, too!

340. Liam rode one of his ride-on toys for the first time. He loved it!

341. Liam's therapist brought Liam a Santa hat for a picture project she's working on. The ornament was just a bonus.
342. Landon had a Santa Shoppe at school where he bought his family gifts. Dad's gift got left behind on Monday, so he placed it under our tree a couple days later.
343. The kids visited the big man. Liam is still doing very well with sitting on laps. I hope it lasts!
344. Landon held up an ornament in front of the tree. I love the bokeh, and the colors.