Dunham Days

Pictures and more Pictures

2010-09-10T15:14:00.000-07:00

If anyone out there is left who checks our blog, I apologize for my lack of posting. In order to get myself caught up this is going to be a mass picture posting, in no particular order, as well as a list of the latest and greatest in the Dunham household.

moved to a new home

started a business

TJ built a sandbox

TJ got poison Ivy (really really bad)

Will turned 3!

TJ started a new job

Family came to visit (big thank you to my mom who helped us move in, Couldn't have done it without her! and has come out several more times to help us get settled. Thank you dad for lending us your wife :)

Dicy and Morgan plus three and 1/2 kids came to visit (yall are the best!)

trip to Utah

trip to texas (where there was lots of egg finding)

Steve (little brother) got married to an amazing women!

Overalls (you'll see)

Five Fingers

Sandbox

Five fingers, my new loves!

Caught in the icing

Seeing his bride walk down

My sweet parents

Oh yah!!!!

Told you you'd see :)

Who's that old short man?

Steve's new family

Charlie

Helping grammy hang clothes (yes people use clothes lines in the south)

Dad found an egg

Will found an egg

Finn found an egg

Another one??

Ginger

A few more from Boston

2010-04-24T09:56:00.001-07:00

TJ's dad sent over some pictures from Boston.

Three generations of Handsome boys

Finn just being Finn

My sweetie and I

Future Boston runner

Ginger

Boston Marathon 2010

2010-04-22T19:15:00.001-07:00

Monday the 19th TJ and his dad ran the Boston Marathon together. It was such a great experience for the two of them. Tom was able to qualify again for next year, TJ's already qualified so looks like they will be back. There were a flood of emotions when I saw the two of them running together, once in a lifetime to run Boston as father and son. Only with these two, they get to do it again, crazy! I'm so proud of TJ, I was happy Will and Finn got to see there dad accomplish one of his goals, though they are still young I feel it will have a lasting impact on them. TJ has such a strong mind, he always accomplishes what he sets out to do. Maybe some of that will rub off on me, but until then I'm happy just being the PROUD wife. He's my hero!

Will cheering on the runners

We see them!!

Looking good at mile 25!

I love this man

Stopping mid run to take a picture with the finish line in the background

Done

Picture in the hotel after the run

Celebrating Daddy

Ginger

Finn turned one!!!

2010-04-12T21:05:00.000-07:00

Our baby is no longer a baby, well kinda, well until we have another baby he will be our baby. And no, no other baby as of yet. Enjoy....

PS: I was what some would call a bad mom, not making Finn a cake for his first birthday. We had Finn's favorite treat, fruit smoothie with granola, bananas and a little drizzle of raw honey on top. YUM!!

Sweet Kisses, I looooove this one!!

Who's gift is this?? Who's birthday is this? Finn looks wind blown!

Oh, fun crocs!

eating a birthday cookie (rice cake) he'll never know.

Thank you Sandra and Tom for the car, Finn loves it when he can get Will out of it.

Ginger

Easter

2010-04-07T20:25:00.000-07:00

Hi all!! We finally got some pictures taken of our precious boys. One of our good friends from church was kind enough to shoot two crazy Dunhams. We had a relaxing Easter watching conference and enjoying our time together. Finn turned ONE March 30th, it's hard to believe, both boys are growing up so fast. I always say it makes me sad but happy. It's so fun getting to know all the many layers of our boys. We feel so blessed that Heavenly Father trusted us enough to send down such precious spirits for us to have and to hold for eternity. What a blessing it is to know families are forever. We love and miss all of our family and friends that are so far away, may you feel peace and love through the atonement of our Saviour. Happy Easter.

The one shot that turned out of Will and Finn together

So big huh?

We love that smile

Can't get enough

Sunshine

Our little boy

Our big boy

Ginger

We're Alive

2010-03-23T15:38:00.000-07:00

We took a trip to Hawaii, thanks to my wonderful husband getting REP OF THE YEAR! TJ and I haven't been on a trip without the kids since we had Will (almost 3 years) so needless to say we were beyond thrilled to have 7 days to play and relax with just each other. We began our adventure by flying to Utah to drop off the kids with TJ's parents, they were so kind to keep the boys (Finn was getting in two teeth, poor grandma). I was a little concerned about how I would do leaving the boys, I'd never been a night away from Finn and only one night away from Will, while I was having Finn. We went to the island of Oahu, home of the capital Honolulu and the famous Waikiki beach. My sweet husband, in true TJ fashion, had our week planned, my only request was to have 1 day to lay on the beach, read and truly relax (which only lasted about 2 hours, then we were off and running). A quick list of the thing we saw, ate and accomplished. Went paddle boarding, where TJ fell off the board on the reef and cut up his feet on the first day there, just for the record I never fell off. Those of you who know the Tennessee Dunham's know we LOVE Asian food and boy did we indulge...... Pho, Dim Sum, Korean Food, Thy and Sushi. We went to Punch Bowl Cimitary, went on 4 hikes (one to get away from the tsunami that never came but scared the you know what our of me) , watched a move (at a real theater, something we haven't done in way to long, we snuck in treats and all), visited Haliwa on the north shore where we ate fish and chips and shaved ice, Watched the surfers, saw the Mormon temple, went to the Bonzi pipeline, visited sharks cove, saw BYU Hawaii, Hiked to two waterfalls and did two ridge hikes (not for the faint of heart), watched the body boarders at Sandy beach (the beach with the most back and neck breaks in the world), went snorkling in Hanauama Bay (one of my favorite experiences), took a catamaran out sailing, whale watching and snorkling (where we swam with BIG sea turtles). We had the time of our lives and were so excited to see the boys again.

I've included some updated pics of the boys. Will 2 1/2 and Finn 11 months.

View from our room

Punch Bowl

View of the city from Punch Bowl

Beautiful Temple

Where we went paddle boarding

Catamaran

Yes, we hiked it!

Notice the rope

The top

Will

Finn is walking at 10 1/2 months

Action photo

Ginger

Utah, Hawaii then Utah or Bust!!

2010-02-16T08:12:00.000-08:00

Ok, so it's been sooooooo long since I've posted anything, sorry. It's been snowing here in Nashville like it's Chicago so the boys and I have been locked inside. I haven't taken my camera out of it's case in over a month. What am I thinking? I need to capture our sweet boys who are chancing everyday. We are leaving on Friday for Utah where we are dropping the boys off with TJ's parents for 7 days while TJ and I head to Hawaii!! We are so excited to have a trip for just the two of us, it'll be the first time ever since we had Will over 2 1/2 years ago. I've only ever been away from Will for one night and that's when I was having Finn. I've never been away from Finn for more than 4 hours so I'm a little anxious about leaving both our boys for so long. I know we will have a blast and the boys are in GREAT hands with Grandma and Grandpa Dunham. Will and Finn are also going to get to hang out with there 6 cousins. I'll post pics when we get back of Hawaii and the boys in Utah. Till then...

Gun Range

2009-12-08T21:45:00.001-08:00

Don't Mess With Texas!

Brother Steve

Hubby

Dad

Seriously??

Texas Visit

2009-12-08T20:51:00.001-08:00

We returned home from Texas yesterday, it was a great time hanging out with the family. My little brother's surprise birthday party was on Saturday (which is the reason we headed to Texas) and our family Christmas party was on Sunday. Will was in heaven with all the cousins, cows, tractors and trucks! He stayed up way to late every night and woke up way to early (we're paying for it now). Saturday morning Steve (little brother) took us to a shooting range, there were about 10 guns between both my brothers and my dad. I shot all but one (Steve's new gun kicks way to hard) we had a blast!! More pictures to follow of the Gun range, that requires a post of it's own. We miss yall already!! Oh, it snowed while we were there!!! Can you believe it? We had to go to Texas to get snow.

Uncle Same and Finn

Finn's first present and Will's first one he remembers

Finn on the move

Our Will

Second attempt at a family photo

Cousin Ashley and Finn

Aunt Dawn and Finn

Surprise

Cousin Sydney and Finn

Can you see the snow?

Grammy and Will

Grammy and the boys

christmas Tree Oh Christmas Tree

2009-12-08T20:34:00.000-08:00

Ginger

Grandma and Grandpa Dunham

2009-12-08T19:50:00.000-08:00

The week before Thanksgiving TJ's parents Tom and Sandra payed us a visit. We had such a great time hanging out , eating, seeing some sights and playing cards. We hiked to the biggest waterfall east of (something) I can't remember, but it's a big deal around here. We went to mammoth cave (no pictures my battery was dead, oops), played frisbee golf, saw some Civil War sights, walked around down town Nashville (our first time down town and we've lived here since June), viewed Christmas lights at Opry Mills, and had an early Thanksgiving. I hope I'm not leaving anything out, it's been a few weeks and we've been soooooo busy.

Down Town Nashville

PS: TJ was with Finn in the car, Finn was sleeping, so Will and I had to shoot solo.
Ginger

Three days of Halloween

2009-11-03T12:14:00.000-08:00

The Saturday before Halloween was the church Trunk or Treat, which was a lot of fun. There was a little carnival inside the cultural hall then off to the parking lot for trunk or treating. Will wanted to stay in the back of our car and eat candy out of the big candy bowl. It took him a bit to grasp what trick or treating was. The following Friday we had our spooky dinner complete with dry ice and all foods some variation of pumpkin. Saturday before trick or treating we decorated a haunted house (most of the icing ended up in Will and TJ's mouth) while Finn cruised around in his walker eating a banana. Afterword Will and Finn got dressed to trick or treat and had a blast. Sunday and Saturday morning I was woken up to Will holding his costume saying tricky treaty. So cute.

Trunk or treat

Spooky

Brave

Banana face

Finn pulling the walls down

Our cute little trick or treaters

Ginger

2009-10-31T06:22:00.000-07:00

The many faces of Finn

2009-10-20T10:03:00.000-07:00

Finn is such a sweet baby, always happy go lucky. I captured a few of the many faces of our Finn.

Ginger

YMCA

2009-10-16T18:47:00.000-07:00

Will Finn and I went to the YMCA fall festival in Brentwood. We had so much fun despite the steady drizzle and 49 degree temp. I took a few pictures, it was hard to get quality shots while trying to look after two boys. They had train rides, hay rides, pizza, face painting, drinks, all kinds of bouncy things, popcorn....... well you get the idea. TJ had to miss this one, he was running late from a case in Memphis. We missed our daddy!

threw an extra pricture of Finn in (I just noticed this car is a choking hazard!!)

Ginger

St. George

2009-10-09T04:59:00.000-07:00

TJ ran the St. George Marathon last Saturday and finished with an outstanding time of 3 hours and 5 min, looks like we are going to Boston in April!!!! In order to qualify for Boston he had to run it in 3 hours 10 min or under. My husband is such an inspiration for me in so many ways, he continues to amaze me every day. I always say I ride on his coat tails, it's hard to keep up with this guy. He's one who sets goals and always reaches them, I set goals and well, reach for them. We are so so proud of him. TJ's dad and sister also ran the marathon with great times, we are so proud of them as well. All of the hard work paid off and made for a great couple of days for the whole family. We headed to St. George a few days early to meet up with TJ's mom, dad, Sister, her husband and for kids, TJ's brother, his wife and two kids. We went to Zion National park, Snow mountain or snow fall (can't remember) state park, outlet mall, splash park for the kids etc. It was such a great time for our family. The marathon was on Saturday, we left Sunday evening to fly to Chicago. TJ had meetings for work so it was a perfect opportunity for the boys and I to visit friends and soak up some of the city. Unfortunately I forgot to get my camera out of TJ's bag before he headed to the hotel, so I'll have to get pictures from friends and post the Chicago visit later.

Zion Nation Park

Will does not like to take pictures

Will had a blast playing with the rocks in a river running through the park

So did daddy

TJ, his sister and one of the girls

Grandma Dunham and Finn

Go baby go

Still enough energy to goof off!

Almost to the finish Line

Proud Wife and son

Our most recent family photo, Celebrating our hero

Ouchy, look what it took to get that metal.

Sister and dad

Grandpa Dunham

Snow fall (or mountain) state park

Ginger

Big Boy Bed

2009-09-23T13:16:00.000-07:00

This has been a couple of weeks full of change for our little Will, first giving his binki away to the dentist and now giving his crib "baby bed" to Finn and getting his toddler bed "big boy bed". Finn has been sleeping in our room since he was born, now that he's almost 6 months (where dies the time go) we decided it was time to move Will into a new bed and move Finn into the crib. We have had the best experience. We got the bed last Saturday evening, let Will play on it for a bit during the day then he slept in it that night. He did try and get out of it a couple times but all I had to stay was " if you don't want to sleep in your big boy bed we can put you back in the baby bed" and it worked! I did lay with him for a bit in the bed to make sure he wasn't scared. After laying with him for about one minute he wanted me to lay on the floor beside the bed then he wanted me to leave the room. The next morning TJ got up to take out the dogs and heard a sweet little voice yell form the play room "Binn (Will's name for Finn) crying". Who knows how long Will had been awake playing but he was having a grand old time. Finn has taken to his new bed just as well. He does still wake up for one feeding in the night forcing me to walk up the stairs 1/2 asleep usually at 2:00 or 3:00 in the morning but it's nice having our room back. It was easier to move Finn up stairs since I know Will is up there with him. Will is still Binki Free, it'll be two weeks tomorrow!! The secret was letting him think it was his idea to get rid of the binki. I have the pictures from frisbee golf that I forgot to post earlier.

First time sitting in his bed

Finn getting used to his new bed

smiles all around

first night sleeping in his bed, very sad for me, he's growing up

How I usually find him now, the toys get most of the bed

Go daddy

Good job Will

Ginger

Brothers?

2009-09-13T17:42:00.000-07:00

I have a little compilation of Will and Finn. This is them at the same age, 5 1/2 months. Do they look like brothers? You tell me.

Ginger

Binki no more.......

2009-09-10T18:19:00.001-07:00

Today Will had his first checkup at the dentist. After getting his teeth cleaned, with much coxing from the nice ladies in the office he traded in his binki for a prize! Everyone was clapping including Will. He clapped, yelled and danced around, they even gave him a certificate saying he was Binki Free. As soon as we got in the car he said "Bink?" We kept reminding him all day that he gave it away. When TJ got home Will told him he gave his Bink away and we all danced around giving high fives. It's now 8:20pm, I'm listening to one sad little Will next door in his bed crying for his Bink. It makes me sad, I'm glad he's done with it (it's about time, he's over two years old) but it's been a part of him for as long as I've known him. Maybe it was more of a security for me than for him, I felt like if he had a binki he was still a baby. It took a good scolding for me to realize what I already knew, THE BINKI NEEDED TO GO! Wish us luck on this hopefully short and no doubt painful journey.

Ginger

You gotta love two things

2009-09-09T08:20:00.000-07:00

#1 Tennessee #2 Frisbee Golf

So, today the boys and I headed out to do some errands. Fist stop was Pet Smart, when we got to the dog food isle I noticed our brand of dog food was on sail for 1/2 price with only two bags left (a $47 savings!). Once we checked out the manager walked out with us to help load the two 35lb bags of dog food in the car. He noticed out Illinois license plates and commented on them, I told him we just moved here from Chicago. His reply was like every other Tennessean who finds out we just moved here......."Welcome to Tennessee" he said with a smile. Next we headed to Publix the local grocery store (it took me a while to learn how to say this word, you can only imagine my first pronunciation). While paroozing the produce section an employee gave Will a little banana for munching as we shopped. At the checkout stand we found out there was NO need for a "rewards card" we get the deals of the day simply by stopping in. This is huge to me, one less card to carry in my wallet or hang on my key chain or one less card to forget and have to pay full price. As we headed home and sat at a stop light a nice man in a big truck motioned for me to roll down my window, now if we were in Chicago I would have never rolled my window down for obvious reasons, upon doing he said "mam, your right brake light is out" I said "thank you" with a smile and he said "thank you" with a smile. What a beautiful day! You gotta love Tennessee.

#2 Last Monday we had our hubby/daddy home for the day, it was GREAT! We found a new love....... Frisbee golf. TJ was jogging about a week ago and found a Frisbee gold course. We ordered the necessary equipment for the game (thank you Amazon) and headed to the course. Will had his little Frisbee which some may call a "marker" and we had ours. Finn of course had to hang out in the stroller but I think he enjoyed all the action. This is a game we will play whenever we get the chance. All you families out there with toddlers looking for a family activity this one is perfect, just let the little fellas free to run the fields, with little to no threat of injury, while you play and everyone enjoys the day. You gotta love Frisbee golf. PS: bring snacks and drinks for all, it's actually a pretty good workout.

I had some great action shots of TJ and Will, they are on our other camera which I can't find the cable to download. I'll post later.

Ginger

An answered prayer

2009-09-03T18:31:00.000-07:00

I write this blog through tears of gratitude to our Heavenly Father. TJ left tonight for a work trip, as he was leaving Will kept saying bye bye, bye bye over and over at the door. I walked outside with Will to watch daddy drive away. Upon returning to the front door I realized we were locked out and our baby Finn was locked in. I ran to the street to try and stop TJ but he was long gone. I checked the door two more times then Will and I knelt down in prayer to our Father in Heaven. I simply asked him to please prompt TJ to come back home. Within a few minutes TJ was pulling in the drive to be greeted by an emotional wife and concerned little boy. It turns out he forgot something that he didn't necessarily need to return home for but decided to come back anyway. As I explained what happened, he asked if I was surprised when I saw his car. I was not at all surprised to see him return home, we were actually waiting for him. Just another testament that God knows each one of us and our situation, he hears our prayers big and small. My faith has been strengthened beyond measure once again.

Ginger

A Day in the life

2009-09-01T09:50:00.000-07:00

I love our little family! The best times are when daddy is home and we get to just hang out and play. Last Saturday was one of those days. We tipically wake up on Saturday morning with a full day planned starting out with our green juice before TJ takes off for one of his insane runs (he's running a marathon in about 5 weeks). Once he returns I go for my workout while TJ and the boys take the dogs for a walk. Once I arrive home it's feed Finn and lay both boys down for a nap. That's the "set" Saturday events, once the boys wake up we are free to do as we please. This past Saturday we went on a nature hike around lake Radnor. We love to spend time outside whenever we get the chance. The weather has been so nice here in Nashville we just can't get enough of it. Once we arrived home the boys got a bath then we had build it your self pizza's (thanks to the Burtons for the idea). Another blissful day. I'm starting out the pictures with one of Finn playing, I felt bad not having a picture of him on this post (he was of course in his stroller on the hike so..)

our sweet Finn Harper

Yummy Green juice

Will on the hike

Will and Daddy
Pizza Fixins

Ginger

Gross

2009-08-31T11:56:00.001-07:00

Ok, there are no pictures to go along with this blog and you will soon find out why. So, we have been preparing to potty train our sweet little Will, we have been talking about poo poo and pee pee more than normal and making it seem like so much fun to go on the "big boy potty". I put Will down for his nap today and listened as he played contently with trucks as he usually does before falling to sleep. He started calling out my name, I ignored is for a bit just thinking he wanted to get out and play. After a while I thought "what if he is trying to tell me he needs to go potty?", so I opened the door ever so slowly to check in on him. Please brace your self for what's to come............. First, the smell hit me like a ton of bricks, next I saw the piles of poo poo on the floor beside his crib dripping off toys and books (that'll teach me to not keep his room clean). I followed the poop trail up the crib to one Will J Dunham smiling ever so sweetly with one hand reaching out saying "poo poo, poo poo, poo poo " without a care in the world. Like poo all over him, the bed, toys, pillow, sheets, sippy cup, books, did I mention him form head to toe, his blankee and binki was nothing out of the ordinary. Like today was any other day. If this is like any other day in our near future please............. somebody HELP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

PS: any ideas on how to potty train, anything that worked for you? Please pass in on.

Ginger

Finn at 5 months

2009-08-27T20:08:00.000-07:00

How come rolls and big cheeks only look cute on babies? Since our 50 mm lens has been acting up we've had to use the "big daddy" lens which is not as easy to pull out or cart around. So, I haven't been taking as many pictures. I snapped a couple of Finn on our walk today with my phone, they are not the best but you'll still get to see how big he is getting. I will start shooting more pics as of tomorrow, I promise.

Ginger

Lululemon

2009-08-22T07:04:00.000-07:00

Huge fan of LuLulemon Athletica work out apparel. All you girls out there try the groove pant! I know you will love them. They have stores in most of the cities yall live in.

Ginger

Coming Soon

2009-08-18T19:00:00.000-07:00

Hi all!! Updates on our lives will be coming soon. Still trying to get our office together. Till then......

Ginger

Oh Dear!

2009-07-24T07:58:00.000-07:00

I swore that if I had another boy I'd not let him go through his early days with the "old man fringe". You know, where the hair falls out everywhere but the base of the skull? Will went through much of his first year this way. Finn had it doubly bad, a mohawk and the old man fringe with nothing in between. Notice I said "had". Now, I swear if we have another baby boy I'll never cut his mohawk and old man fringe.

North Carolina

2009-07-23T11:48:00.001-07:00

We've has such a fun week so far. We just got back from a mini family vacation to North Carolina's southern outer banks. We knew that was one of the trips we wanted to take this summer but decided last minute to go. We left the dogs at a boarder (it's so nice not traveling with two dogs) and we were on our way. The trip started off with an airplane ride much anticipated by our little Will. "fy away, in sky" he says while making a flying motion, his hand starting from his hip up and over his head. Upon landing there was a short drive till we reached the beach. Will had a BLAST playing with daddy in the waves, piling up sand ( we forgot beach toys so had to improvise with the hotel ice bucket and lid) etc.... while Finn and I hung out on the towel trying to keep the sand and sun out of his face. Finn doesn't like when he's hot so the late afternoon beach day was not his favorite. We toured an old Civil War fort , strolled the streets of a historic water front twon, tried to find a light house (but never did), went to the beach again (earlier in the morning this time so everyone had a good time), and ended the trip with an aquarium visit. Will had the pleasure of attending the Chicago aquarium a number of times but found this one to be much more exciting as they allowed the kids to touch some of the fish. Through all that fun the icing on the cake was when we headed back to turn in our rental car and take the "Big Bus" aka Hertz shuttle back to the air port. The driver sat Will in what she called the captains chair and made a big production out of it. He was having the time of his life! As all little boys he is obsessed with big machinery especially buses. There are lots of pictures of Will and TJ, not so many of Finn and I. I was the camera women and finn was strapped to me so.............. Till next time

notice the ice bucket lid
what Will likes to do in the hotel (so cute)
what Finn likes to do in the hotel
reading Civil War history
Action photo, Will was not wanting to pose

at the fort
Historic ocean front town (Will not wanting to pose again)
Town of Beaufort 1709
I love this picture
standing on the dock of the bay.....................
wastin time
sweet huh?
Ginger

Takes a Lickin and keeps on tickin

2009-07-22T20:00:00.000-07:00

If I were a betting women, I'd bet on Will.

Ginger

Grandma Dunham

2009-07-22T19:48:00.001-07:00

Grandma Dunham came to visit all the way from Utah, our first visitor since we've been in Nashville! We had a great time touring around and playing. Thank you for all your help Sandra!! It was nice to have an extra pair of hands around to help with the boys. Will wanted no one but grandma the whole time she was here. He totally forgot he had parents. Finn had a great time as well, he did allot of sleeping. We didn't forget about him he just wasn't in very many pictures. oops

A beautiful hike we went on

Will and Grandma Dunham

Daddy and Will on one of the oldest trees in Tennessee

Ginger

It's begun...........

2009-07-13T19:37:00.000-07:00

As many know my Husband would be quite happy with a small zoo. He's never met an animal he hasn't liked. Well, today Will got his first Fish and is loving every moment of looking at "Fishy". I wander if this is the start of our zoo. Just the other day TJ came home saying he almost got a GOAT, that they were selling them on the side of the road (only in the south). He preceded to tell me about all the goat milk, goat cheese and butter we could have at our disposal. I reminded him of the time constraints we would be under with having to milk a goat, and that travel would be out of the question (unless we found someone to milk our goat for us). So, as of now we only have two Poodles and a fish, I'm sure it won't be long till we gain another family member. Life is grand!!!!

Proud owner of Mr. Fishy (and a new hair cut)

Pictures of Finn playing
So curious
Ginger

For you mom

2009-07-08T17:52:00.000-07:00

Finn and I were playing around tonight, he is always super smiley. These pictures capture Finn's personality to a tee. I've been scolded by my mom twice in the last week for not putting quality pictures of Finn on our blog so....................This one's for you mom!

Three months and 15lbs of snuggles

Ginger

Kombucha

2009-07-07T22:24:00.000-07:00

We are borderline addicted to this drink. It's hands down our favorite treat. If you haven't tried it you've got to. TJ ordered a book to learn how to brew it ourselves, I'll let you know how that goes once we start the process. But in the mean time enjoy!!!!

Ginger

The 4th

2009-07-07T21:14:00.000-07:00

We had such a fun 4th, we did miss our families in Utah and Texas though. We headed to a festival in Franklin (one of the areas we are looking to buy) and both boys did well for about an hour then it was time to leave. But that hour was packed full of excitement, for Will at least. Finn took a nap and had a huge dirty diaper that got all over TJ's hand which then got wiped on my diaper bag when Will started freaking out in the jumping thing and needed daddy. Will and daddy slid down slides, jumped in a bouncy thing, but the highlight of the day was the pony ride ( I don't agree with pony rides at festivals but let Will do it just this once)!! We weren't sure how Will would do, he loves to point out horses and there's not an animal he hasn't liked, but actually sitting on something so big?? Well, he did great!!! We were so proud of him. That evening we set off some fireworks, just as we got set up a thunderstorm blew in and we all got soaked, that may have been the funnest part. We hope yall all had a great 4th of July and counted your blessings for living in this great country!! We love you America, happy Birthday!!

Can you see Will?
Getting ready for the pony ride

Firework time!
Watching them explode in the air
Ginger

Friday the 3rd

2009-07-05T16:32:00.000-07:00

It's 6:30 on Sunday night, TJ just left for an overnight trip, Will is asleep (since 4:30, so if he wakes up it'll be an all nighter), Finn is taking a nap as are both dogs. I was torn between writing this blog or curling up in bed to read my book with some leftover cookies from the 4th and a tall glass of something cold. As you can see being productive got the better of me. TJ was off Friday, after a morning run and trip to the temple we decided to take Will to a Spray Ground. A spray ground is like a playground but with the water that shoots our of the ground, drips from buckets etc for the kids to splash around in. We looked it up online plugged it into our GPS and we were off. We haven't seen any "not nice" parts of Nashville but knew they had to be here. Well, we found one. Those of you who are our Chicago friends this spray ground ended up being somewhere south of 95th street. We pulled up and quickly pulled away. Feeling bad about getting Will excited for an outing we came up with another idea. About a week ago as I was struggling to get some grocery shopping done, one kid sitting where the food goes while the other sits where the kid goes, while the kid in the the spot where the food goes was throwing a fit, I spotted the baskets with a car attached to the front. I quickly found out two things. #1 Will loves to ride in the car and #2 other shoppers hate the baskets with the car attached. Let's just say there should be a sign attached saying "Wide Turns". I almost took out a whole line of senior citizens in one foul swoop! Anyway, back to our "other" idea, we decided to take the boys to Kroger and let Will ride in the truck!! I watched as a frustrated TJ loaded the kids into the basket (took a bit for him to figure out how it was done). I stood back laughing and snapping pictures. We ended up having a great time croozing Kroger as a family.

Will's reaction to riding in the truck at kroger
Poor Finn, good thing he was buckled in

My boys and simple pleasures
Ginger

2009-07-01T15:19:00.000-07:00

A word about our little Finn, he loves his blankee!!! Even more than Will if that's possible, I've never seen a baby at such a young age get attached to anything accept a binki. Finn has to have it to sleep, if ever in a freak out give him his blankee and the world it right. I need to give Ericka (a dear friend from Chicago) props on the blanket, it was a beautiful gift from her family to Finn. Below are some pictures of Finn and Mr. Blankee, I know what your first thought will be, SIDS!!!!! But not to worry he likes it that way and he's quite good at moving his head. Oh yes, he also sleeps on a pillow (go figure). As for Will we went to an activity at a local plantation, he got to color, have a horse race and play some other game that I didn't really get the point of. Will had enough of that game and decided to run up and down the hallway (whatever tires him out). We have big plans for the rest of the week (TJ is off Friday) so more to come.

My money's on #2

Run Forest Run!!!!
Ginger

Guitar

2009-06-30T15:14:00.000-07:00

Will, Finn and I had the opportunity to attend a musical petting zoo put on by the staff of the Country Music Hall of fame. We traveled out to a little library on the out skirts of Nashville where the event was to be held. We arrived a little early so Will looked through a book or two before the event began. He gravitated to the guitar and even held it and strummed it with no direction on how to do so. He was by far the youngest one there but was the most into the music. For those of you who know Will he loves his music! Maybe we moved to the right place for this kid, watch out music row!!

Ginger

Red White and You

2009-06-26T11:17:00.000-07:00

Today Will, Finn and I went to a Red White and You birthday party! We were celebrating America's birthday ( a little early). Will was by far the youngest kid there and the only one dressed in green (oops) but hung in there like a champ. He was the first one out at Hot Potato though. The kids had birthday cake, got there first tattoos, played games and danced to music. After Will got out at hot potato he opted to play on the slides instead. what a lucky kid, cake twice in one week! Oh dear......

Standing in line for his first tattoo
Getting his tattoo

Ginger

Water balloons and Dino

2009-06-26T11:08:00.000-07:00

TJ and Will enjoyed the Tennessee heat while playing with Water Balloons. Dino (our new standard poodle pup) was right in the mix.

Ginger

We love our............

2009-06-26T10:54:00.000-07:00

BOB!!!!! I can't say enough about this double jogger and the boys love it to!! It has a car seat adaptor (compatible with most car seats) for babies who are not stable enough to ride through a jog sitting up. Although, just strolling around Finn does fine at 12 weeks laying in there on his own. If you are a walker/jogger who wants a sturdy (it actually has shocks which makes for a sooth ride for the boys) stroller consider this one. The only thing is it's kind of big, you need space to store it and a big car to get it around. I'd consider this more of a suburban stroller as appose to a city stroller. Anyway............. Here she is!

Ginger

Here's to you Daddy

2009-06-21T18:31:00.001-07:00

What a fun Weekend we had!! First let me start by wishing all you dad's out that a happy Fathers Day! So, my sweet husband is training for another Marathon to be held in St. George this October. He's squeezing in training whenever he can between traveling (allot), playing with the kids, playing with the dogs and hanging out with me. Saturday morning TJ got up early to head out for a run, once he returned I headed to the gym for my first spin class since having Finn. It felt really good to get back in a "workout" routine. I came home from the gym scooped up Will and headed to Whole Foods where we decorated our very own cookie cake for Daddy. Will had one taste of the icing and went banana's, this was just a foreshadowing of what would happen about an hour later. Will barley ever gets to have sweets so when he does boy is he excited. He couldn't wait to give daddy his Fathers day gift he'd maid with his own two little hands. We arrived home and before I could even get situated with the camera Will was off and running to give TJ his cookie cake. In a matter of about 7 min (no joke) the cake was 3/4 of the was devoured by one little boy and one happy daddy. Later that afternoon we headed to Belle Meade Plantation, a historic plantation just down the road from our house. For those of you who want to take a look here is the link http://www.bellemeadeplantation.com/ . Will and Finn behaved beautifully while TJ and I took in the history. We've only just begun our exploration of Nashville and the surrounding areas. There are tons of Plantations and Civil War Battle ground sites to tour, we are so looking forward to our time here. Will fell asleep in a matter of two minutes once we left the plantation right in the middle of chewing a granola bar. Guess the 95 degree weather pays a toll on a little fella. We arrived home to a cool home and settled in for the night.

This morning (Fathers day) TJ got to sleep in till 11:00, had Mate and breakfast in bed then headed to church. We have only attended this new ward a few times and for some strange reason I thought Sacrament started at 12:00. We were running a little late this morning so arrived to church at 12:05, we could here that the meeting had started (so we thought). On my prompting we rushed in to a full house, not a seat available except up toward the front. Once we settled in TJ asked if I recognized anyone, about that time the hymn started, the hymn I thought was the opening but soon found out was the closing!!! We rushed in to the last 5 min of the 11:00 sacrament, ours didn't start till 1:00. I wonder what the congregation was thinking seeing a family of four come to church just to catch the closing hymn and prayer. And the circus lives on...........

PS: We love you so much Daddy!! You make all our dreams come true!!!!!!!

Ginger

settled......sorta

2009-06-16T19:31:00.000-07:00

We are here in Nashville and having a blast. We are in a rental home for another month and 1/2 why we continue to try and sell our Condo in Chicago (wish us luck, cross all your finger and as Will would say "Piggies"). We have been busy to say the least. Will, Finn, Polly, Dino and I have traveled with daddy on a few work trips. We headed down to Memphis where we had the best Bar- B-Q on the planet and being from Texas I've had allot of Bar-B-Q. Then we headed to eastTennessee right around the Smokey mountains, some of the pretties country we've seen. The boys and I have had fun playing in the hotel while TJ works. Last weekend we headed to Utah to visit TJ's family, what had a blast. Every body had the chance to finally meet our little Finn, or should I say not so little Finn. He is now 2 1/2 months and weighs in at a hefty 14 pounds, just to compare will (who turned 2 today) weighs 22 lbs. The boys couldn't be more different, it's so much fun getting to know them a little better each day. Will had his birthday party in Utah at TJ's parent's house, there were lots of cousins to help celebrate the big occasion. It's hard to believe Will has been in the world for 2 years, one thing is for sure he's left his foot prints and continues to each day. He is the happiest kid, saying hi to everyone he meets and flashing that heart warming smile. He's changed our lives in a million ways, not sure what we did to deserve that little fella.

Finn is smiling all the time and making those cute little baby sounds that melt the heart. We are loving him more each day and can't believe we are parents of TWO!!! We always say we still can't believe we are married then we look around and see two little boys in our home, time flies when your having fun...... sometimes I wish it would slow down just a bit. Life is good here in Tennessee!!!

What Finn thought about Will's party

Blowing out all two candles on his train cake from Grandma
Lots of goodies!! Thanks all
The train was a hot item
Winding down with a movie
Yipee
Sweet baby Finn
Can you believe how big he's getting?
A true embrace
Grandma, Grandpa and kiddies

First time to pet a cat (yuck)

Ginger

One last night

2009-05-24T23:34:00.000-07:00

Tonight is our last night in Chicago. Chicago will always have a special place in my hear, all the memories we have together as a couple and family are here. We had a great last week, I had a girls night with my closest friends. We spent time with the Kasmers on Saturday having Italian ice, taking kids to the park and playing Bachi Ball (that we won without a fight I might add). We spoke at church on sunday and of course I cried the whole time while TJ gave the best talk ever!!! How can guys hold there composure so well? Must be nice. Tonight the Burtons had us over for home maid Italian pizza and chocolate cake. It was the perfect last Chicago dinner. Our emotions are mixed when it comes to saying goodbye to our Ward and friends but we are ready to move on for our next adventure. There is something to be said about moving to a new place and just having each other to hold onto. TJ and I are the same in that we love the experience of starting in a new place, meeting new people, making new friends to add to our old ones and exploring a new part of the country. We love you all and will miss the friends we have here. Will is going to be sad about one thing, leaving Eleanor, his first Best Friend. Thank you for the memories..............God with you till we meet again.

Ginger

Bath time/sleepy time

2009-05-21T20:53:00.000-07:00

I caught some cute pictures of Will in his bath while Finn slept like an angel.

Ginger

can sharing get out of hand??

2009-05-21T20:09:00.000-07:00

Just before bed time tonight a lot of sharing went down in matching jammies (how cute).

Will decided he wanted to share his toys

   even more toys
   Will this one fit?
   Maybe not
   Satisfied with his work
   Finn doesn't know what to think
   You ok??
Funny boys,

Ginger

Play date

2009-05-21T04:21:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we had quite the play day, we met up with Dicy, Trey and Eleanor (clearly Will's best friend) at this cute little park by hour houses. We found a nice tree to put Trey under, I wore Finn (we are still lacking a double stroller) and the two of us chased our toddlers around the park. It was bitter sweet,this will be one of the last times Will and Eleanor play together in Chicago. He will miss his "Elno" tons!!

Will at play

   His classic "where is it?" look
   heart warming, don't you think?

Thanks for the great day Burtons,

Ginger

Grand parents and Baby Blessing

2009-05-16T11:25:00.000-07:00

A couple weeks back Tom and Sandra came to visit Will, meet a new baby Finn and participate in Finn's blessing. We had a great time, Will kept grandma and grandpa busy with the zoo, aquarium and nature museum. Not to mention countless walks and the park. We loved having them here and are always sad when they have to leave. Thanks again for all your help with the kiddies and doggies. We love yall!

Fun with Grandma and Grandpa

At the blessing

   Will's best friend
   Blessing day


Ginger

Time to smile

2009-05-15T16:58:00.000-07:00

No time to write but to say............big time smiles and lots of giggles!!

We love our boys,
Ginger

Finn 3 week update

2009-04-22T19:48:00.000-07:00

Sleepy days.........we love this boy!!!

Ginger

Barnum and Bailey have nothing on us

2009-04-19T13:32:00.000-07:00

It's official, as of yesterday we became a full fledge three ring circus!! We have added another little addition to our family...........Dino the 9 week old standard poodle. This is all daddies doing, but I have to admit I'm a little excited (well, I will be once house broken status has been reached). We've had quite the exciting week, we packed up the family (two week old Finn and all) and headed to Nashville for a home hunting trip. As most of you know we are taking a transfer with TJ's new company to the Nashville are. We are super excited for the new adventure and to have a house with a yard so the boys and dogs can run and play (and I can actually regain some of the sanity I'm bound to loose in the next few weeks). So, for now we have in our two bed two bath condo located in the South Loop of Chicago, 1 new born, 1 toddler, 1 neurotic miniature poodle, 1 Standard poodle puppy, one happy husband and one delirious mama (visit at your own risk). Life is an advenutre to say the least and we wouldn't have it any other way.

Finn is growing like a weed, a really really fast growing weed, like the kind we had in our yard as a kid, the ones that always grew 10x faster than the grass. Will is the best big brother, he went through a little rough patch (may or may not had to do anything with the arrival of Finn) but now he is back to his angel self. TJ is working a lot, still working this territory and starting his new territory which consists of Tenessee, North Carolina, Kentucky and Indiana. I'm adjusting to the three hour feeding schedule of our little Finn and learning how to run on an empty tank. I wouldn't have it any other way, I love my boys! We still have our condo on the market and are hoping it sales by the end of the month (keep your fingers crossed). We have showings with sometimes a few hours notice, you can add that to one of the more entertaining circus acts we pull. If prospective home buyers knew what we had to go through to get our house cleaned and out of it(on time) I'm convinced they'd make an offer out of pity.

meet Dino Dunham

   Will in Grandpa's boots
   One of Will's circus acts
   Balancing act (peanut butter anyone?)

   Waiting out a showing in the back of our Pilot

Ginger

Happy Easter!!

2009-04-12T09:58:00.000-07:00

Saturday we attended a neighborhood easter egg hunt. We'd been having our own practice hunts around the house to prepare Will for the "Big Hunt". I must stay the practice paid off, he did great! Will went off on his own, collected eggs then came to show us his lute. We don't let Will have much sugar..........that translates to an unhappy kid which translates to unhappy parents.........so, we brought him gum and a cliff bar to swop out for the candy ( I think he's beginning to catch on to our sly ways), he got ahold of a now and later and thought he'd died and gone to heaven. He was eating paper and all. They had a little petting zoo filled with baby animals, that was Will's favorite part.

This morning was nice, TJ got up with will at 6:30am and let me sleep till Finn woke up (and needed breakfast) at 8:30. WoW what a treat!! Once I was awake we let Will find his easter basket and spread easter grass all over the house (uhhhh) then we made green drinks for breakfast (pictures to follow).

Daddy and Will getting ready to hunt eggs

   Opening eggs with Daddy to find surprises

   Easter morning, Finn has no clue (poor fella)
   Will sampling his green drink creation
   Must be good!!!

Ginger

Blissful Days

2009-04-03T19:38:00.000-07:00

Heaven.......................

Ginger

I love this life!!

2009-04-01T17:53:00.001-07:00

What an exciting last couple days here at the Dunham house hold. As most of you know we have been anxiously awaiting the arrival of our second baby. He has finally arrived!!! Though a bit past due (which made the waiting game that much worse) Finn Harper Dunham was born Monday March 30th at 3:58am weighing in at a whopping 8lbs 14oz and 21 inches in length. I actually went into labor at church, during the last hour contractions started up and by the time we arrived home they were 5 min apart and coming on strong. TJ and I grabbed some dinner then headed out the door. My mom is in town and stayed behind to be with Will (what a great help she has been, thank you , thank you, thank you). I was at 5 cm when we arrived and ready to go. Once admitted we settled in for an exciting night. The birth was amazing!! Will came through a c-section but we were blessed to have Finn vaginally, something TJ and I really wanted. Hands down the coolest experience, we loved it! It seems there was allot of baby hiding in my belly, even the Dr. was shocked when we saw him come out. He has the thickest black hair and cheeks to die for. Will loves this little bundle already and oh boy...........so do we!!

a few minutes old, first kiss

Life is grand

Safe in Daddy's arms

My three boys

arriving home, less than two days old
Ginger

playing catchup

2009-02-17T10:09:00.001-08:00

Ok, so I have a little confession, I've been reading the Twilight Series in all my free time so that's why I haven't blogged in a while. Well between reading, napping with Will and going to bed at 8:30 or 9:00. Things are good at our house, TJ's been busy with work (still waiting to see when and where we are going to relocate ) and Young Mens (he's the YM president at church). There are about 15 boys between the age of 12 and 18 that keep him pretty busy. Will has been changing everyday, not so much in looks but in his personality and words. He is supper funny, has a huge love for life and is starting to mimic every word we say. He is in nursery at church now and loves all the new songs. We've gone to a couple of museums lately, the museum of Science and Industry was not his favorite but he seemed to like the aquarium, since one of his favorite words to say is "Fish" it was nice for him to finally get to see some in action. I'm just over 35 weeks now!!! We are so excited to meet our second baby, TJ still thinks the baby is a girl and I am not sure. I used to think the baby was a boy but...........who knows. A couple of my dear friends are throwing a shower for Dicy and I this Saturday. Dicy is one of my close friends jut three weeks behind me. I'm excited to have some girl time and just hang out. It's not going to be a traditional shower in that we are going to a restaurant (in China town) kind of a girls night out. Valentines was great!! Dicy came over to watch Will so TJ and I could go to lunch in peace, we had Korean Bar-B-Q, one of our favorite foods (other than sushi), then we came home to spend the day with Will. TJ had a sweet scavenger hunt for me and the flowers were beautiful. Will made me my first drawing and helped daddy decorate. There are plenty of pictures to document the occasions.................

Will in his tumbling class

   Will likes to travel in his PJ's
   Playing hide and go seek
   Everybody loves Daddy!!
   Where's Will??
   35 Weeks and Counting!!!
   Flowers from my boys
   Picture for momma
   Life is Good!!


Ginger

It's been a while

2008-12-16T18:28:00.000-08:00

Ok, so it's been a while since I've gotten around to posting a blog or two. There is no real news to report except that we are so so so so so excited to leave this Thursday the 18th for our Christmas trip. We hit both families each year, instead of splitting Thanksgiving and Christmas between the two, we celebrate Thanksgiving with friends and see both families for Christmas. We head to Utah first this year, stay there till the day after Christmas then meet my family in Colorado for a ski trip. We are getting one big cabin for all four families!! Steve, my younger brother will not be able to make it with his family, he has to work. We will miss him. I know Will is going to have so much fun playing with family and getting out of the condo. It's been really cold here so we've been stuck inside for the most part. Last Sunday we found Will sitting in a shoe box with his "man" and dog. Look real close and you'll see what he thinks of the pamphlet "For the strength of the youth". Oh dear! When we were at my parents a few weeks back mom had will helping her with the dishes, it wasn't long before he was in the sink up close and personal with each dish! I've also posted a pic of the growing belly.

Helping Grammy wash dishes

27 weeks

Ginger

Lawn Mowers, Tractors, Halloween and "The baby"

2008-11-07T16:34:00.000-08:00

Will, TJ and I took off for Texas Halloween weekend. TJ flew home on Sunday but Will and I got to stay a few extra days. Oh, the fun we had!! My parents live a bit out of town on 5 acres so Will had allot of room to run, play, fish etc. Will was literally outside from sun up to sun down, he had lots of play mates with grand parents, aunts, uncles, and cousins. Around those parts Will is know as "the baby", Where's the baby? shhhhhh, the baby's asleep, what does the baby want to eat? etc etc.... I thought it was cute and Will had no idea they were talking about him. There were allot of firsts... first time to ride on a lawnmower, first time to ride on a tractor, first time in a boat,first time to fish, firs time touching a fish, lizard and frog, first time to trick or treat, first time to kick a foot ball. Will didn't sleep so well in my mom's pack and play (especially at nap time) so in order to put him to sleep we rode him around on the lawn mower, before he was 1/2 way around the yard he'd be out every time. Halloween was a blast, we went over to my sisters to celebrate with her kids and take part in there neighborhood festivities which included a hay ride from house to house for trick or treating. My sister had a back up trailer to pull incase there were to many kids for the other 4 they already had. It ended up Laura had to use the trailer but didn't have any hay to put on it so technically we didn't go on a hay ride, it was more like.........well, a trailer ride, but fun just the same. below are quite a few pictures of the time in Texas. Oh, notice the BIG FISH TJ caught, we were so proud!

Our sweet puppy

Trick or treat!!

   Family fun
   Will's cousin Kobe

   Grandpa and Will
    Grammy and Will taking a ride

   TJ's big catch
   Grandma O' and Will playing with bobbers
   Who knew bobbers could be so fun?
   first time touching a fish, not his favorite thing

17 weeks and counting

2008-10-14T10:58:00.000-07:00

Well, the time has come. My belly has just started to pop out and we are so excited!!! We love the belly bump around our house. I'm glad I have a husband that loves me pregnant. The sad thing is, I think he thinks I'm the cutest when I'm pregnant, that could make for allot of kiddos! I've had several requests for a post of the bump so before we left to workout this morning I took a couple of pictures. Drum roll please.................

Will watching his crazy mama take pictures of her belly.

Ginger

Hair cut'n time

2008-10-14T10:48:00.000-07:00

So, Will had his first haircut!!!! But, these are pictures of his second. I forgot to take pictures of his first so I hope #2 will do. It looks the same as the fist trust me.

His new "I don't like that" face

Ginger

Happy Birthday Baby

2008-10-14T10:27:00.000-07:00

On September 30th my dear husband turned 31, can you believe it? I know you can't by looking at him. We had an early birthday party for him on Sunday since he had to work on the actual day of his birthday. We invited over 7 couples and there kids. We just hung out and ate lots and lots. On TJ's actual birthday I sent him to a Korean spa for a little relaxation. If you don't know what a Korean spa is well.........let's just say they have body scrubs and crazy massages that are done in the nude!!! This seemed a little strange to me but thought it was right up TJ's ally as he had been to a similar spa in Turkey. He said it was a little creepy at times but all and all the message was good. Oh, the women go to a whole different spa so............not to worry.

Ginger

Let's swim

2008-10-14T10:11:00.000-07:00

Will had his first swimming lesson a couple weeks back. We are attending with two of our friends and there little girls. TJ was home for a 1/2 day so he went in the pool with Will. I was thankful not to have to get this ever growing belly into a bathing suit. During Will's second lesson he went totally under water twice, not by choice mind you, but he lived through it without any tears.

TJ was a lone dad hanging with the girls

Ginger

Thank You

2008-09-15T17:18:00.001-07:00

A big thank you to my mom and dad!!! A few weeks back my parents came to visit, my mom flew in a week early to spend some extra time with Will (she said all of us, but we know the truth). She had no idea what she was in for, we waited till she got here to tell her I'm pregnant. Once Will came in with his "I'm a big brother" shirt on I could breath a HUGE sight of much needed relief. The sick first trimester mama came out in full effect. No more posting a painful smile on my face while struggling to hold my eyelids open. Mom was GREAT! She totally took over, allowing me to sleep when I wanted, lay on the couch when I wanted and I didn't even have to feel guilty about it. She played with Will, changed Will's diapers, changed Will's cloths, bathed Will, took Will to the park, walked Polly, Fed Will and even picked up after not only Will but all of us. I felt a little bad because I was no fun at all. Once my dad arrived I struggled to play games with everyone but let's face it no body wanted me on there team. The first night my dad graciously accepted me as a partner and the second night TJ was stuck with me. Whatever team I was on, you guessed it, lost. The day after my parents left I was almost back to myself, one of two things went on. #1 I was really never that sick but was taking full advantage of my moms graciousness or #2 I sucked it up and felt better because I had no choice but to take car of our little angle boy. Any way, prayers were answered in more that one way.

Ginger

Living the good life

2008-09-04T11:10:00.000-07:00

For those of you who don't know what a Love Sac is, let me introduce you. Well, I'll introduce you to the Kid Sac. Will loves to watch his baby einstein movies before he goes to bed (or when mama needs a break). TJ would pile up Pillows to make him a nice comfortable place to lounge. TJ had the great idea of getting him a Kid Sac (a smaller version of the Love Sac). It's the same idea as a bean bag but the inside is filled with heavenly foam peaces. Is Will living the good life or what? Check out his lounging position.

Ginger

OH BABY

2008-09-04T11:06:00.001-07:00

New baby coming March 24th!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! From the looks of this picture, Will's not sure how he feels about it.

Ginger

Tool Bench, sidewalk chalk and nose picking

2008-08-06T15:32:00.000-07:00

We have a couple new additions to our home, a work bench and sidewalk chalk. TJ and I wanted to get Will a work bench for Christmas. Every time he enters a little girls house with one of those kitchen sets he goes crazy so.............. we thought we would get him the "boy" equivalent. A friend called the other day saying she saw the work bench at Target on sale so I ran up and grabbed one, and several other things (dang it!). Who can just buy one thing at Target? Amongst the other things grabbed was a wagon full of sidewalk chalk. To an unsuspecting mama this seemed like a good deal since Will played with some (or should I say ate some) the other day at the park. I figured if anything else this would make for a couple of cheep meals. Once I got the bucket O' chalk home, I realized this chalk would be around for a long long time. If any friends in the area need some side walk chalk head my way, we will gladly share. Back to the work bench, if you know me you know I had no intention on waiting till Christmas to put that sucker together and give it to Will. Once home I quickly assembled the bench (in record time I might add), once Will awoke from a long nap he got his Christmas present 5 months early. oops! He won't know the difference right?

Last but not least we captured Will's first nose pick!!! Thought we'd share. The picture is a little fuzzy, no time to focus for moments like that. What a cute little boy!!! That is only one "boyish" thing he has started to do lately. Those of you who have little boys (or brothers) know what I'm talking about. It's just a stage right??? We hope!

   I lost count.

   Who need hands??
   First of many I'm sure.

Ginger

beach and sleep

2008-07-31T05:49:00.000-07:00

We have been having just the best time this summer. Will is old enough now to enjoy the outdoors, everything so brand new and exciting for him. My favorite part of the summer is sitting back and watching Will explore the world. We took a trip to the beach with some friends, Will is fearless when it comes to water. He wanted to go as far as he could, I let him go up to his waist (with me holding his hand). The water in lake Michigan is still a little chilly, venturing in a little further will have to wait for warmer waters. Once Will gets his sunscreen and swimming trunks on I let him run around the house for a while so the sunscreen can soak in. Will was in his room playing but I didn't hear a sound, I've come to know this is usually a bad sign. It means he's doing something he knows he's not supposed to (like dripping the content of his bottle in a nice little pattern on the carpet then smearing it around), so I headed in to asses the damages. Much to my surprise he was perched on his book basket having quiet time. It turns out this basket is just the right size for a little seat (picture to follow). That night Will fell asleep for the first time in his play toy watching his sleepy time movie.

Seattle, tumbling and Vancouver

2008-07-23T16:46:00.000-07:00

We took a last minute family vacation to Seattle/Vancouver. We left Thursday evening for Seattle. By the time we landed there was only time to grab a burger from Dick's Drive- in ( a local hamburger chain in Seattle) if you go up that way it's worth the stop, then went to our hotel for a few hours of sleep. Friday we headed out to the Public market, Pike's Place Market, on the water front. They sold fresh fruits and veggies, fish, flowers etc. It was fun to brows and people watch. After eating lunch (fish and chips of course) we took Will on a ferry ride. He really enjoyed it, but we had to seek shelter 1/2 way through. The high temp was 65 our little one was turning blue. I'd always heard how much it rained in Seattle, while we were there not a drop. Will got his first real ouchy in Seattle. While speeding down the sidewalk (he has to walk as fast as he can, no matter where he is going) he took a tumble, picture to follow.

poor little one, ouchy

The last leg of our trip took us to Vancouver, what a fun city! We drove up there on Friday after seeing the sights in Seattle. It's only about a 2 hour drive but silly us, we didn't factor in customs on a Friday evening, that added another hour and 1/2. Those of you who have small children will be able to only imagin what was going on inside or car as we sat in line, but once we arrived it was totally worth it. We mostly ate lots of asian food, who would have thought? My favorite was the jap-a-dog, one of those carts down town that sold an asian twist to an american dog. Let's just say it was topped with nori instead of relish....Yummy. Saturday morning we hit the lululemon outlet (my new found addiction), picked up a couple of things then headed to the second largest Urban park in North America. On arrival much to our amazement there was much much more than just 1,000 acres of wilderness. We took Will to a petting zoo which I'm totally against, any kind of zoo for that matter, but TJ assured me that the animals like it there, they live the good life......never having to hunt for food and getting there backs and bellies scratched. Before I knew it I bought in and believed for a split second that we were doing a good thing. Will had a great time but seemed to like the tractor more than the animals. Truth be told TJ had the most fun and now wants a couple of goats, he's added them to the list of animals he wants once we move from the city. After the petting zoo we headed to a little water play park, you know the kind that has water shooting up from the ground, a little stream running through the middle, water guns to shoot and rain fall to run under. We found a parking place for out stroller, stripped Will down to his onesie, rolled up our pants and headed in....... and right back out! You'd never know by the way little kids were darting around, in out out of the water having the best time of there lives that the water was ice cold. We put Will's feet in it for one second and screams followed for all to hear. TJ calmed him enough to touch the shooting water and run through a couple of times. Will was more than ready to go after the water adventure and fell asleep right as his head hit the car seat. Sunday we left to drive back to Seattle to catch our 4 hour flight home (after 3 hours in the car), our prayers were answered and Will did great on the flight home, what a trooper! We couldn't have asked for a better trip.

First time on Canadian soil

view from the park

It was so nice being able to spend time together with no distractions. I know Will really enjoyed having his daddy for 4 whole days, and so did momma.

Ginger

Swimming and Walls

2008-07-07T15:33:00.000-07:00

Will went swimming for his first time (well first time he can remember) Saturday after the picnic. Thanks to the Burtons for letting us use there pool, it was perfect that they have a one foot pool for the little folk. Will, TJ and I splashed around and had such a good time. Will is wearing his new swim trunks complete with a rash guard. Not sure why babies wear these little swim shirts but he seamed to like it.

After swimming we promptly headed home to get Will bathed and fed before he hit his wall. Ya'll may have heard of the term "hitting the wall" we use this to describe what happens to our Will on a daily basis, he takes after his dad in this respect.........he's a happy fun loving kid, it's all or nothing with him and there is not much warning. The "wall hitting" is usually preceded by a spurt of supper silliness.....out of control laughter about nothing, running around aimlessly, or attacking momma and daddy with kisses. Then out of know where, it happens. A happy baby Will turns into a very unhappy boy, ready for bed and he means now. We are getting better at reading the signs. We are now quick to get him fed, change his diaper and into Jammie's when the signs present themselves so that when he starts to go down hill he is ready to get in his crib, and BAM he falls right to sleep if we play it smart. Bellow is him eating dinner, going through his silly stage and hitting his wall (oh yes, sometimes hair pulling is involved, his own hair that is). Le me clarify, when I say he takes after his dad in this respect, TJ does not pull his own hair, run around laughing at him self etc.......but he does get tired all at once and needs to hit the hay.

   Silly time
   come give me a kiss momma
   Wall has been hit

Ginger

Picnic and Kegs

2008-07-05T17:41:00.000-07:00

We had our ward picnic today and it was so nice getting the chance to sit and talk with friends. TJ and I are a little concerned though, Will may soon be known as Will "The Tank" Dunham. Upon arrival Will gravitated to the keg of homemade root beer and didn't leave its side for 1/2 the picnic. He would reach out to touch it, then back away when people come to fill there cups. All the while studying intently how it was they got the brown beverage to come out.

   Thinking about it
   Should I do it?
   Nows my chance

Ginger

Happy 4th of July

2008-07-04T18:58:00.000-07:00

HAPPY 4th OF JULY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! We hope everyone is having such a nice day and getting to enjoy family and friends on this special occasion. We are so blessed to live in this glorious country and the freedoms it affords. We sang the national anthem last Sunday at church, it brought a tear to my eye and a feeling of gratitude and pride to my heart. We are so thankful for our many blessings and to live in this land. TJ and I had big plans for the day, it was to be all about Will. We discovered this great little park by our house that's full of wooden trains and play houses for kids to explore. The park was first on our list and taking him swimming at the Burton's pool was second on out list. We had a great time at the park (pictures to follow) but the swimming will have to wait for tomorrow, our little fella fell fast asleep at 5:00 on the dot (he missed his afternoon nap). Tomorrow we have a ward picnic starting at 11:30, TJ has to get his run in, then we are off to the swimming pool. Oh yes, notice Will's "new" baseball hat, he feels like a big boy wearing it. He tried it on in the store and trotted around wildly with a big smile on his face refusing to take it off.

TJ and Will giving Polly a ride
Pausing to touch his shadow

A day together

2008-06-28T16:08:00.000-07:00

Today was just beautiful all around. The weather was so nice, lots of sun and a nice breeze,much needed time together with TJ and Will and a good visit with family. We started the day with a happy baby Will, walked up to the museum to meet TJ's grandma, two uncles and aunt who are in town visiting one of there daughters/granddaughters. We had lunch and came back to our place for some visiting. Since TJ, Will and I had the opportunity to walk around Chicago we thought we may as well show Will some of the sights, we may not live here forever you know. We blended in well with the rest of the tourists, snapping pictures, pointing and smiling all the while. What a great city in the summer! TJ finished off the day with a 13 mile run (part of his training), Will fell asleep at 6:oo sharp and I had a nice visit with a friend.

Will with Grandma Great

   The Field Museum
   My two boys, aren't they cute??

   Classic

Ginger

Baby at Play

2008-06-27T17:06:00.000-07:00

Just a few pictures of our baby boy WALKING and hanging out with momma. He has gotten pretty good in the week and 1/2 he's been walking. He can almost get up on his own without having to pull up on something, it's all very exciting but tugs at the hear strings a little as well. We always say how special Will is, the world has great things ahead of her with Will in it, but it's starting to hit me, will is like every other baby in that he has to grow up. I know I'll enjoy all that is to come but every now and then I can't help but wanting him to stay just like he is today........... for a bit longer.

The joy a baby brings,

Ginger

A Day in the life

2008-06-27T16:02:00.000-07:00

So we we watched one of our dear friends child (Ruby) on Thursday. I documented some of the day for all to see. After Ruby arrived the kids played together for a bit then Will got his morning nap why Ruby and I watched Curious George upstairs. Once Will woke up both kids were scooped up to head to the park.

   Needless to say Will was not having the best time.
   we tried a new spot on the play ground
   and another
He finally calmed down enough to enjoy the swings for a bit before heading inside for nap #2

Ruby on the other hand was having a glorious time just hanging out.

After nap#2 for Will and nap #1 for Ruby we walked up to target where both Ruby and Will got new church shoes! The double stroller made for a fun trip.

By the end of the day momma was tired and the house was a mess but there was still love in the air.

Rugby

2008-06-21T18:35:00.000-07:00

Today TJ, Will and I went to watch England play Scotland in Rugby. There was an international tournament being held in Chicago, we had tickets to see all three games but our little Will only made it through one......and that was pushing it. Needless to say TJ was in heaven, right in his element, I had a good time as well. I was happy TJ was not playing for two reasons 1) he was sitting right there beside me, it was nice hanging out and if I had a question about that crazy game he could answer it 2) there was no way he could walk away with another concussion, black eye or cracked rib, and for that I am sooooooooooooo happy (though I do like watching him play). Will's favorite part of the whole experience was the Corona guy, he just kept staring at him walking up and down, up and down, yelling "CORONA......GET YOUR CORONA HERE". The Corona guy was oblivious to the sweet baby Will watching his every move, he missed out.

Ginger

New Ride

2008-06-19T14:04:00.000-07:00

Summer has finally arrived here in Chicago which is cause to celebrate! We ordered a bike trailer to pull Will around on the Lake front. We got it put together on Monday just in time for Will's birthday, then took a family ride (when Will promptly fell asleep, his head was flopping out of control so we turned around and came home) which was quite enjoyable, at least for TJ and I. This trailer has proven to be a great purchase and we've not even had it a week. Will and I take a ride most days and even rode up to the beach to play. We tried to put Polly in with Will, not a good idea, there was lots of pulling of the hair and kicking of the dog. Polly may have to sit this one out for a bit. Notice the beach cruiser, TJ and I both have vintage bikes we race around town in.

Ginger

movin and shakin

2008-06-19T13:56:00.000-07:00

The day has finally come, Will is walking!!!! He started walking Monday the 16th, on his birthday, can you believe it??? He still crawls from time to time. He can't stand up without pulling up on something first but once he is up he's that way for a while. Action photo follows....

-Ginger

Slight addiction

2008-06-19T10:57:00.000-07:00

Ok, so our son may have a slight addiction. Let me first set the scene then you decide. Now that Will is one year and getting all his nutrients from "big food" I was a little worried that he may not be getting all the things his body needed by way of nutrition. I did some research and found the answer...........Green smoothie (which we call green drink). Will now gets a heeping bottle full of green leafy veggies and fruit each day (ex: Kale, spinach, collard greens, kiwi, apple and banana, that was todays mixture) this gives him all of his fruit, veggies and fiber needed in a day. Each morning I get out the Vita Mix pack it full and turn her on..........this is where the fun begins. No matter where in the house Will is, he comes a runnin (or crawling) hangs onto my leg and cries hysterically till I get the green drink in his bottle and into his mouth. Please see pictures below of a happy baby Will drinking his drink........then a really happy baby Will after his drink is done. Notice the eyes! Yikes!!!!!

-Ginger