At Home with the Pattersons

Cleaning Closets

2009-11-01T12:30:00.001-06:00

I've been cleaning out the closets myself lately and this little post from (in)courage really touched my heart. I hope it does yours as well.

http://addthis.com/bookmark.php?v=250&pub=jlane03

P.S. Give me a day or so and I'll have pics of Tinkerbelle in her new fairy princess bed and out for Halloween :)

Forever and Ever Amen

2009-10-18T10:24:00.007-05:00

Today is a stunning fall day here in Kansas City. A bit on the chilly side but almost identical to the day Bill and I were married. So with the house quiet, six years and two children later...I'm thinking back on that glorious fall day at Pisgah Presbyterian Church where we promised to love, honor and cherish one another...for better and for worse. I'm thinking of our family and friends who traveled great distances to dance and toast this wild ride we were about to embark upon. I'm also thinking of another promise that Kim McKnight read for us...

Mark 7: 24-26
Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock: And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house: and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock.

When we made that promise and heard those words we meant them, I'm just not sure we knew what we were truly in for at the time. But we are learning. Because "marriage is a commitment of super glue proportions. And it's the commitment that sticks even when the feelings ebb and flow. That's the beauty and courage of marriage."

unmade beds, trips to the hardware store and endless "planning" sessions

and the rain descended

births, deaths, illnesses, travels, weddings and mornings without iced tea, diet coke or coffee.

and the floods came

KU and Duke wins and losses and endless Royals and Chiefs seasons

and the winds beat upon that house

time spent with family and friends.

but it fell not for it was built on a rock.

"Because, after all, marriage is the ultimate parable, isn't it? It's the living picture of a God who looked at us in all our silly, selfish ways and then loved us regardless, so that He could make Us. His. People. Amazing, crazy love."

I say "I do" all over again every day my handsome husband, because...

With You I Am Home.

a special thanks to Melanie Mauer who took the stunning photo and blogger Lisa-Jo at (In)courage who provided the inspiration for this post.

Happy Birthday James Henry

2009-10-08T22:26:00.006-05:00

It's hard for me to put into words the journey we have been on this past year and a half. It seems like in the blink of an eye we have gone from the heartbreaking reality of James' birth to the celebration of his first birthday.

It might seem strange but yesterday really was a celebration. We slept in then had breakfast together. Afterwards, we took out the box of momentos we had gathered. Elie wanted to take James his "lovey" that Judi, Kristin and Lindsay had given us. She also wanted to read the "new" book We were supposed to have a baby but had an angel instead book that Lindsay gave us. We re-read the prayers and sermon our ministers Meg and Tom shared on that day. Then on a glorious fall morning at about the same time he was born, we headed over to church.

Elie had been writing James and Jesus letters all morning so she added those to our flowers. Bill read scripture and we both tried to answer the question "when were we going to heaven?"

We compromised and went to Westin, MO, to the pumpkin patch and to see the barn animals. The day was stunning and we bought a pumpkin as big as Elie.

Later in the afternoon Lucy, Max and Aunt Kristin came over to sing Happy Birthday and have cupcakes. Then we all got our hands dirty and planted tulips. We had 32 of them and it was hard work, but it was fun and good. We are all looking forward to seeing them in the Spring.

Bill and I ended the night at one of our favorite spots just having a glass of wine and talking about the day, the past year and what is to come.

What we know for sure is this...going on this trip to Holland wasn't our first choice, but we enjoyed our time there. James Henry gave us many gifts during his 8 short months. Someday we will meet him but until then we will have to settle for remembering the tulips and windmills he brought into our lives.

Thank you for loving us and thank you for loving our son.

We hope you enjoy seeing our day. (copy the link below and paste it into your browser to be taken to the video)

http://gallery.me.com/nationranch#100021

Amelia Island 2009

2009-09-07T21:50:00.004-05:00

Make a Smilebox scrapbook

Finally, SOME of the fun caught on film of the Berger family trip to Amelia Island. There were hundreds of other memorable moments that we didn't capture but will remember forever.

I hope you enjoy as much as we did
Alison

The First Day of Kids Day Out...School

2009-09-04T13:28:00.004-05:00

So I know those of you who aren't on FaceBook are dying to see pictures from our trip to Amelia Island and I promise to get them up soon. This just couldn't wait...

Thursday was Elie's first day of "Kids Day Out" or "school" and what a big day indeed.

On Wednesday we had gone to Target for things to put in her lunchbox and she was soooo excited to pack a peanut butter and jelly sandwhich, strawberry bars and some peaches. She kept telling me that "all her friends would be there". I think she only kinda knows one little girl, Ellen, of the 13 other children in the class.

The outfit is classic Elie. Recently she has gotten strong opinions about what she wears and LOVES to accessorize. We show up with dozens of strands of beads and multiple bows in our hair regularly. The hat has been her summer favorite. It was one of Emma and Sophie's and she wears it ALL THE TIME. Try as I might I couldn't convince her that the hat didn't match today...she was still wearing it as I waved goodbye and she rolling play dough.

The morning started with Momma getting us there 30 minutes early, (could have been worse I guess my mom dropped me off at camp a couple of days early once) so we got a special treat scone before hand. It was actually harder for momma than Elie. She ran into the class and sat right down to roll play dough. I was waving furiously from the door..."momma loves you...see you later" Not even a glance.

When I got there at 2:30 to pick her up she was the only one still sleeping soundly in the middle of the room...that's my girl, loves her nap.

Afterwards we picked up Grandma Ruth and then went for ice cream then back to her apartment to read books and play.

What a great day! Let hope our first day at Country Club Christian goes as well in two weeks.

Da comes to Kansas City

2009-07-24T13:59:00.005-05:00

It is finally quiet after a wonderful week of having Da in Kansas City. We had so much fun it seems crazy that the time has already flown by. Da and Mommy got to go shopping, to see the movie The Proposal, out to dinner with our friend Leslie, and lots of organizing done around the house. The whole family also got to have a great dinner at Grammy and Papa's house one night.

Elie and Da had tons of fun and here is some of the proof...

The first picture is Da doing Big Magic for Paw on the phone with Elie.

Elie and Da taking baby GiGi for a walk in the stroller.

Elie and Da playing dress up and reading books.

And the last two are Elie and Da at her Ballet class.

Clearly it was a great time and we wish she could have stayed longer but Paw and the dogs need her back at Kentucky Home. But we only have to wait a few weeks before we all see each other again at the beach.

It was truly Big Magic.

Happy St. Patricks Day

2009-03-23T09:53:00.003-05:00

The family had a wonderful time last weekend at the annual Brookside St. Patrick's Day Parade. This balloon was our second of the day, Bill got some great video of us loosing our first it was pitiful and cute all at the same time. Lots of our friends and their families were there so the day was great. Check out the video at the link below.

Elie and I head to Kentucky on Wednesday for a few days with Da, Paw, Uncle Boodleheimer, Aunt Nikki, Emma and Sophie we can't wait for the pictures and videos to show you then.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DBO1dMhrsi8

Our Little Picasso...

2009-02-26T14:59:00.007-06:00

For Christmas Elie received lots of "art supplies" from Mommy and Daddy and the most fabulous box from Aunt B. Well truth be told I've been to scared to actually dig in and get "wet". So Wednesday I dusted off my courage wings and announced to Elie at 8:30..."how about we paint"! This is what we had about half way through our hour long painting extravaganza. She was so excited. She wanted to call Grammy and Papa and Da and Paw. At one point talking to Da she had gotten paint on her hands and told Da "I have muddy footprints all over my hands". This is a reference to one of her favorite books where one of the characters gets muddy footprints all over his momma's floor. But Elie's use sure was cute.

Fast forward about 30 minutes. The paper is full of color and water. So much so that the paper is falling apart. I gave Elie a little warning that it was almost time to stop painting and the drama which insued was off the charts. Big Big tears....no mommy no I"m still painting was her plea. I admit it was so cute and pitiful that I actually laughed in my sweet childs face. So how much in therapy do you think that will cost her? I finally set the timer on the oven and announced that when it went off it would be time to stop painting.

Somehow the timer worked.

You would think we had hung her "beautiful picture" (her words) in a gallery in SoHo rather than on the front door. Anyone intersted in an original work of art is welcome to contact me.

Perhaps I'll be brave enough to dig into B's box and pull out the glue next.

Happy Valentines Day and more

2009-02-13T14:52:00.002-06:00

Make a Smilebox greeting

Just yesterday a good friend sent me this quote and I wanted to share it with you all...

Family of Origin and Family of Choice. Family of Origin is the family you are connected to by law, or history, or the happenstance of genome. Family of Choice is the family you create from friends, neighbors, lovers, and sometimes even relatives, smile. It is a beautiful mosaic of past, present and future, and it's main components are love, acceptance and joy, and support in the times when the joy seems dim and the love harder to reach.

So to all of you who are my Family of Origin and my Family of Choice I say thank you and Happy Valentines Day!

Elie Turns 2.

2009-02-11T21:32:00.004-06:00

It absolutely blows my mind that on January 19th our little one turned two years old.

Since I'm not really a scrapbooker, I'm lucky to have Bill around to take our pictures and video and make an "album" of the year. Our hope is to continue doing this for her each year until we are so old we can't keep up with the technology.

We hope you enjoy watching our baby girl grow up. Click on the link below for Daddy's Ode to his little girls 2nd year on the planet.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5PfRQGlhICQ

Inaugurations make me nostalgic

2009-01-19T22:25:00.005-06:00

No matter what you think of Barack Obama or Bill Clinton few people have the honor to be this close to a President being sworn into office. I was lucky enough to do it twice, in 1993 and in 1997. I'll only bore you with my favorite memory.

In 1993, Wendell H. Ford was the Chairman of the Senate Rules Committee and therefore the Chairman of the Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies. This committee begins its work months before the new president is even elected. Working on Senator's personal staff we all had extra duties and responsibilities.

On the day of the ceremony I was in charge of Senator Ford's grandchildren, ranging in age from 6ish to early teens. Senator is fiercely proud and protective of those grandchildren and it was my job after the ceremony to guide them through a packed Capitol back to his offices in the Russell Building. Things were going smoothly until I heard "ITS BATMAN" and all I remember are children scattering like flies. I managed to grab the smallest by the collar as my life flashed before my eyes. How would I ever tell Missy and Senator that I had lost them? Fortunately Batman (a.k.a. Michael Keaton) didn't have a pen on him to give them an autograph and they all came rushing back to me to see if I had one.

Clearly the story ends well as I lived to tell. To be honest I don't even remember if I had a pen or not or if they got the autograph.

All I know is that tomorrow will hold many memorable moments for many different reasons for many different people. That is why this country is so great.

**There is an arrow that points to me in the first picture sort of in the left hand corner.

**In the second photo I"m the 3rd person to the right of the officer.

You Need To Dance....

2009-01-17T14:04:00.002-06:00

could possibly be our family motto for the coming year. As most of you know Elie turns 2 on Monday so all is a-twitter in the house preparing for the Happy Birthday Party. It will be a small affair with just Aunt Kristin, Uncle Evan, Lucy and Max but will produce ample "memorable moments" to share with you all soon.

Like this one. Ever since the holidays when Elie and her cousins Max, Lucy and Maddie held marathon "dance parties" on their days off from school, Elie has been dancing all over the house. (Please notice the shoes she is wearing, hand me down tap shoes, that make a fabulouse noise on the wood floors.) At any given moment she will look at Mommy, Daddy or the both of us and say "You need to dance".

You know she is right.

So lets all dance our way through 2009.

I know I'm planning on it.

P.S. I know many of you used this blog as a way to keep in touch with our family last year and receive updates on James Henry. Please don't feel obligated to continue to subscribe. I'll be happy to take you off the list, just let me know in one way or the other.

James Henry Patterson

2008-10-12T21:47:00.003-05:00

Born to Heaven: Tuesday, October 7th, 2008.

It was a day filled with physical pain, sorrow but mostly a great deal of joy and gratitude.

Perhaps someday soon I will feel up to writing about our day. But for now I wanted to share with all of you some images so that you may know our beautiful baby boy.

These were taken by a lovely woman from the not for profit, Now I Lay Me Down To Sleep. We have others taken by family that I will share in the coming days.

(the images will not come through on this update email so please go directly to our blog from the web: www.athomewiththepattersons.blogspot.com to view them.)

James Henry gets a check up

2008-08-29T13:19:00.011-05:00

This morning Mommy and Daddy got another chance to see our beautiful baby boy. It was so amazing and wonderful to see him again. See his face, see his heartbeat, his sweet fingers and toes and just feel close.

The news of his progress wasn't all together unexpected, but not as hopeful as mommy had set herself up for.

First of all he is doing just fine and all is well. His growth is showing signs of slowing down, however. Many normal babies at this stage of the game would be around 3 pounds and J. Henry is only about 2 pounds 3 ounces putting him in the 20th percentile size wise. Dr. Mitchell, who I just can't say enough wonderful things about, assured us that he wouldn't be concerned even if James wasn't a T18 baby. He just isn't going to be the brut Elie was.

My amniotic fluid was on the high side, but again not yet an area of concern. Dr. Mitchell describes this as more like the 80th percentile and really just means that momma feeling large and out of breath all the time is normal....we are 7 months pregnant after all.

Other T18 markers we tried to look at came in again as we might have expected, his little hands are clenched but his feet don't seem to be rocker bottom. We also found today that where the Level II ultrasound did not detect a cleft lip, this ultrasound did. His omphalacele is still there so the hope it might correct itself has pretty much disappeared.

So what does all of this really mean? Not a whole lot in the big picture. James Henry is fine, Momma and Daddy are fine and Elie is fine. Summer is over so we begin the difficult process of facing the possibilities/realities that T18 might bring us. In the next couple of weeks we will meet with the neonatologists at the hospital to go over what we might expect during his birth and after and what Bill and I feel are right for James Henry. I will meet with our Hospice worker next week for a check in. And on the bright side, begin preparing for Mom and Blair to come visit later in September.

Life goes on. Except today momma is a little sad because reality stopped by for a visit. Perhaps my eyes were lifted a bit too high.

To give you some context, Bill and I recently went to church for the first time in a long time and Rev. Are spoke of Psalm 131 My heart is not lifted up, my eyes are not raised too high;...I have calmed and quieted my soul. I invite you if you have the time to read the sermon at http://www.villagepres.org/ under the sermons catagory, July 20th was the date.

The passage that I think of on days like today goes like this:

Hope is not a sanctuary-seeking word. Hope calls us to not merely survive how things are, but to imagine how they should be. Hope is different from optimism. It was Rabbi Jonathon Sacks who wrote: "Optimisim is the belief that things will get better. Hope is the faith that, together, we can make things better...It takes no courage to be an optimist but it takes a great deal of courage to have hope."

So today momma is putting on her courage wings that only she can see and loving her sweet baby boy, his daddy and his sister. And having Hope.

BBQ Guys and Dolls

2008-08-16T21:04:00.004-05:00

We've been doing alot of traveling here in the Patterson Household this past month which is why mommy has been neglectful in her blog posts.

I thought I would work my way backwards through the summer with all the fun activities starting with the Annual Dillon Colorado BBQ Competition. As a review, for the past several years now Bill's mom, Carolyn, has led our all women BBQ team. Each year we perfect our technique a bit more and this year was no exception.

Elie's cousin's Lucy and Max joined the group with their own special talents. Lucy sold tons of Lemonade and Max had a fishing booth that was a crowd pleaser. Elie pretty much just looked cute, drank lemonade and ate BBQ. Although there were rumors that she was featured in a t.v. spot from her participation last year. If we get a copy I'll post it.

I know others got team photos and such so pretty soon I'll do a post about the entire team, but suffice it to say that "Rub This" brought home the coveted Mayors Award second place for showmanship this year. Carolyn's cheesey potatoes took first place again this year in the side dish catagory, and my Colorado peach pie and cinnamon ice cream placed 8th.

Not too shabby!

Vacation Bible School

2008-07-17T13:05:00.003-05:00

It has been quite a week here at chez Patterson. Mommy has been teaching Vacation Bible School "Red Macaw" class and Elie attended the nursery yesterday and today. The Red Macaw's are 4 years old and while the class isn't full with 9, let me tell you I'm not sure I could handle any more. Fortunately we only have 2 boys and only 1 of them is the rowdy sort.

To put it bluntly...Mommy is whipped with one more day to go but I have to admit I'm having alot of fun!

Elie has been having a blast! The heartbreaker in the blue shirt in the middle of the picture is Michael Muller (Elie is on the far right on her teachers knee. She is the youngest in the class). His parents are some of our best friends so Elie gets to see Michael alot....and has formed her first crush. She loves going to "the party" at church and seeing Michael. Today mommy even bought McDonalds afterward (a special treat if not the first time this is one of a very few times for Mommy).

The gal/teacher on the left is Kim Stratton. She and her husband Brad have been friends of ours for maybe 10 years now. As it happens Kim and Brad have a daughter Brady who has Trisomy 18 and she is 18 years old. While I'm realistic about our chances to have that much time with J. Henry, as his daddy calls him, it is nice to know that miracles do happen. Brady is a gift to her parents, beautiful, goes to school and lives a wonderful life.

That said...when we arrived home Elie had a complete meltdown wanting nuggets and milk BEFORE we could even get off the sidewalk. So my neighbor Joey comes over to help and Elie and I sit on the sidewalk to just have a picnic which seems to make Elie happy. Joey has 5 children, three girls and two boys, and has supplied Elie with so many cute outfits I can't count them. So being the wonderful nice friend she is she asked if I was ready for some little boy clothes. I was completely caught off guard and blurted out no that I didn't want any at all. Seeing the hurt look on her face made me feel terrible and I stumbled over my explanation that I really didn't want anything before James Henry arrives and if we are lucky enough to bring him home I would put out a call for some items. It just all seems so strange and surreal that something as innocent as a friend wanting to give me clothes for my baby could be such a complicated question. But it is.

I am Loved

2008-07-10T15:10:00.006-05:00

Meet James Henry Patterson.

Let me assure you that James Henry Patterson knows he is loved. Not only that, but his mother, father and sister are more aware than ever of God's love in their lives and how much they are loved by friends, family and strangers.

As most of you are aware, shortly after my last post in February, Bill and I were surprised to learn that in fact we were expecting again on November 12th. Thank you writers strike!

Spring was definately in the air and we set off for what was now to be not only a "40th birthdays, 5th anniversary" trip but also a "babymoon" to southern Spain. The trip was something we will never forget. While we missed Elie she was happy as a clam with Grammy, Grandad, Da, Max, Lucy, Evan and Kristin. Bill and I strolled the streets of Spain, rode camels in Morocco and remembered what it was like to stay up late, get up late and just be together. Those carefree days are treasured memories I'll fill you in more about those another time.

The day after we arrived home we went in for what we thought was a "routine" genetic test and learned our sweet baby might have a problem. After 5 excruciating weeks of waiting on June 12th we learned that James Henry Patterson was diagnosed with Trisomy 18, a diagnosis which according to the medical books is "incompatable with life". (See www.trisomy18.org if you would like more information)

A month later now the shock has worn off and the sadness isn't quite so overwhelming. We have settled into having a wonderful summer and just treasuring every moment we have with Elie, each other and James Henry.

Thank you to everyone who has been so supportive this past month. We've received cards, phone calls, emails, inspirational cd's and more food than we can eat. I have decided that now is the time to start updating the blog again because I know we have so many wonderful loving friends and family who wonder how we are doing....and crave updates on our amazing Elie.

So for today, this moment, please know that we are all well. Safely wrapped in God's loving arms. Most moments are happy. James Henry kicks and squirms just like his sister did and is growing on track so far.

We are blessed and we are loved.

Happy Valentines Day and more

2008-02-15T13:49:00.006-06:00

Many of you got this photo as a Valentine, but I just couldn't resist putting it up on the blog as well. Elie and I had such a fun day yesterday and the weather was outstanding. We went to the park for a swing, napped then Elie's friend Kirby came over and Mommy and Daddy went out to dinner. Yipee!

Now that Elie's ear infections seem to be behind her (we go back to the doctor on Monday for a final check) her sleep problems seem to be going away as well. Which is really great for mommy and daddy who were suffering from some major sleep deprivation.

Elie is growing up fast. Since her birthday she has given up her bottle and is slowly weaning as well.

The greatest "new feature" are her signs that she has learned. Bye-Bye was her first several months ago, then came all done..but from there we seemed stuck until a couple of weeks ago when she picked up Baby, very soon followed by more, eat and drink. Today we even think she may have signed Daddy and her version of friend. The funniest part is basically that now that she knows that when she asks she can get something to eat that is all she wants to do.

We are looking forward to a fun weekend and hope you all have one as well.

Much Love!

Pink Eye Ain't Pretty

2008-02-01T22:20:00.000-06:00

Well folks the hits just keep on comin. We have now had our first official bout of Pink Eye in the Patterson household and I'm contemplating locking Elie in the house until she is...lets say 18. I think I've held up pretty well with all the bodily functions so far, but I think I'm at my breaking point. Perhaps seeing her little eyes that are so happy be so sad and just plain gross has something to do with it.

Fortunately, my neighbor has 4 children with a 5th on the way and the answer to just about anything. Her little guy had PE about a month ago so rather than a trip to the Pharmacy she just popped next door. You wouldn't believe how much better little Elie looked after just one treatment.

Even better the doctor said that after one round of drops she was no longer contagious so off to Gymboree she and Daddy go tomorrow. Oh What Busy Days.

Growing up

2008-01-31T14:33:00.000-06:00

What I'm finding about being a mom is that there really are so many small but very important moments that go along with it. This is a picture from Saturday when Elie made her first car ride facing forward. To see her face light up and her little legs just kick and kick warms my heart...even on Thursday.

I was listening to Oprah on XM yesterday and Rabbi Schmoolie (that can't be how he spells it) was talking about making the ordinary extraordinary.

Today I'm looking for the extraordinary in the ordinary. Let me know if you find any of your own.

ABP

Elie's Birthday Barn Bash - 01.19.08

2008-01-25T19:49:00.000-06:00

Well guys I know you've all been on pins and needles waiting for this video to be released so here it is. I wish each and every one of you could have been here for Elie's very special very first birthday. The birthday girl was a bit under the weather...well alot under the weather but she perked right up when her guests arrived, especially her fun cousins Lucy and Max.

Mommy was especially thankful for her friend Pam who helped bake the homemade birthday cake and birthday cookies. We served North Carolina pulled pork sandwiches, slaw and sweet potato fries with homemade birthday cake and homemade mint chip ice cream.

Unfortunately, Saturday night was a bit hard for Elie. She ran fever all night and I'm sure couldn't sleep because mommy was taking her temperature every 15 minutes. We went to the doctor on Sunday morning and after a breathing treatment and some chest Xrays determined that we were lucky enough not to have anything more serious than a very bad ear infection.

The last shot of the video is how we spent the bulk of Sunday...curled up and snuggling until the medicine kicked in. Monday Elie stayed home with mommy and we watched Baby Einstein videos (thank you Auntie G) all day...yes all day. You haven't lived until you have watched Neighborhood Animals (twice), Baby MacDonald, World Animals, Baby Mozart and Baby Neptune all in one day.

Thankfully Elie is back to her old self and according to her one year check up on Thursday still in the 90th percentile in height and 80th percentile in weight.

She is attending her first KU basketball game tomorrow with her Daddy so watch the blog for highlites...I think he is a brave man.

ABP

Elie's First Year - The Video

2008-01-21T19:38:00.000-06:00

Well friends and family it was bound to happen. On Saturday Elwyn Ruth Patterson was a whole year old. The week was kind of surreal for me. All week I found myself thinking back to the year before and what I had been doing at that moment. To tell the honest truth I could really only remember the day before and going to the doctor at some point that week where he confirmed that she might actually be 8 pounds.

So we hope you enjoy this little review of Elie's first year, compliments of her Daddy who has recently become a wizard at Imovie.

Be sure and check in tomorrow and I'll upload the video of Elie's first birthday party for your viewing enjoyment.

Happy Holidays from the Pattersons

2008-01-17T11:20:00.000-06:00

Well I decided that I better get some holiday pics up before Elie's big birthday on Saturday! This whole week I've been finding myself stopping and remembering what I was doing this time last year. This time tomorrow I would have been in labor. Oh My!

For her birthday Elie is having a Farm Party with all her Kansas City Family. Of course we will miss all of you but I PROMISE to have lots of pics up by the end of the weekend and Bill has created a little something special for our little bundle.

Here are some pics of Daddy cutting the Turkey at Thanksgiving and Elie digging into her meal. I will have to post pictures of Christmas in another post so watch for more....

Renovation ROCKS!!!

2007-11-18T21:07:00.001-06:00

Forgive me friends and family....I cannot believe it has been nearly two whole months since I last posted an update to our blog. Shame on me. So very much has happened with Elie that I won't even get started tonight, but I will promise to update the blog over the next week with all her wonderful new "features". So much has happend in her little life thse past two months!

For now lets focus on the renovation. I've enclosed a picture of what it used to look like just for reference. What I thought would be a three month process turned into four (anyone who has been through a renovation knows why). Of course there were many reasons, but the bottom line is that it is all coming thankfully to a close. Tomorrow the electrician and plumber will be here to put the finishing touches on our fabulous new kitchen. We still must decide on a tile backsplash and the curtains are on their way (should arrive mid-December) but for all purposes we are complete.

Just in time for Thanksgiving, which Bill, Elie and I are hosting for the very first time. We will take lots of pictures and I promise it won't be February before I post them.

Enjoy.

Can we talk?

2007-09-25T14:34:00.001-05:00

Can we talk? That is what Miss Elwyn Ruth seems to be saying in the first picture to me. Now of course her Daddy thinks she has mischief on her mind, and he is probably closer to being right. Mostly this one just shows her two fabulous teeth. Which, by the way, are about to be joined by a third any day now.

The second picture is one of Elie with all our neighbor kids. Emma, Olivia, Sally and Elliot. They had propped her up like a princess on blankets and were showing her how to play with her doll that afternoon. What fun they are and how lucky we are to have them next door.

How to see the pictures

2007-09-25T14:27:00.000-05:00

Hey, I've had LOTS of comments that when you get an update in your email box you aren't able to click the link and see the picture. I"m soooo sorry. Here is the way a couple of folks have solved the problem.

When they get an email, they go to their webbrowser and type in www.athomewiththepattersons.blogspot.com this takes them straight to our page...pictures and all.

Then they marked our page on their favorites list, so that then when they get an email letting them know I've made a post to the blog, they just delete the email and go straight to our Blog.

If that doesn't work for you please let me know and I'll figure something else out.

Now on to the next post and more of what you really want.

Sometimes Life Stinks...

2007-09-21T16:49:00.000-05:00

Even when you are 8 months old. Like when mommy puts you down and you really just want to be held, or when Max won't let you play with his Spider Man. Fortunately when you are 8 months old you always have your feet around to make you happy again.

You know she really is cute....even when she cries.

Elie makes her KU debut

2007-09-10T21:41:00.001-05:00

Daddy took Mommy and Elie to their first KU Football game this weekend. KU beat up on Southeast Louisana but best of all Elie thought all 40,000 people were there just to see her. She made friends with the folks in front and behind us and sang and laughed the whole time. When KU made a touchdown instead of waving the wheat, Daddy waved the Pig (before dinner that is) She even made it through most of the third quarter when Mommy and Daddy pulled the plug on the fun. Basically it was 8pm and bedtime with no signs of Elie slowing down.

Fortunately for Mommy and Daddy she slept the whole way home.

Mom is Crazed Freak...

2007-09-10T21:19:00.000-05:00

OK, so I was having lunch with an old friend about a month ago and relating all the stupid and absolutely first time mom things I had done, when she told me that I should put a little of that on the blog, not all this sugar coated candy stuff...so here goes Patt.

This past week I was neurotic. No I'm serious completely neurotic. I was convinced that Elie was going to choke. You see we are just getting into serious real food (not just that pureed crap in the store) and I was just sure that because I didn't know what I was doing she was certain to choke to death.

My first victim was Kristin. At the pool I"m having a fruit plate and sharing with Elie...in the course of a bite of cantaloupe I asked Kristin if I should be feeding her cantaloupe, Kristin said just so long as the piece are small enough. Sure enough about 2 seconds later Elie coughed up a hunk of it and Kristin said "See pops right out!". Good thing she was there.

A couple of nights later at a friends house for dinner I had purchased organic biscuits that the box CLEARLY stated were for children at least 9 months old. So when Elie bit off a big hunk I went into fits and begged Bill to dig out of her mouth...much to Elie's surprise and dismay.

So finally the following day we were at Grammy and Grandad's. Daddy had gone to the store for supplies and mommy thought "oh this biscuit can't hurt". The poor child gave one slight cough and I went into freak mode. I wailed to Carolyn that Elie was choking just as I was turning her over and beginning to slap her back violently. Carolyn then came to my rescue and began digging the biscuit out of her mouth (which I don't really think was there). In the process she scrapped her mouth so there was just the smallest amount of blood, to which I just knew we had to go to the hospital. Carolyn level headed, got Elie a sip of water and suggested I nurse her since the poor kid was scared half to pieces and crying. Of course that did the trick and after a stiff drink mommy came down from her ledge.

The following day my weekly email from "what to expect when you are expecting" was titled...Do you Worry about Everything? So apparently I"m not the only freakish new mom on the planet, which is in some small degree comforting but also a little embarrassing.

I took their advise and went for a run. I plan to make it a habit...

Learning to Crawl

2007-09-04T03:23:00.000-05:00

Elie has been a very busy girl this last month and here is the videos to prove it. We are only weeks away from crawling and life changes once again for mommy and daddy. All I have to say is...we aren't ready.

Rub This....aka BBQ Baby

2007-09-04T03:16:00.000-05:00

It's been a while since the gals were in Colorado doing our BBQ thang, but I thought I would share some shots of "little Miss" being the hit of the BBQ. Our tent became the "one with the baby". As you can see Elie worked very hard...sleeping and playing with Aunt Barbie and Aunt Peggi. Now that is the way to be a team Player

Alot is happening

2007-09-04T03:06:00.000-05:00

Well I got a GREAT email from Auntie G who was visiting Uncle Ernest and Aunt Jane in Jackson. They all seem to be doing well and agree with Big Bill that we hope Miss Elwyn has red hair....but it just made me realize I needed to do several updates.

So first...about the house. These pictures were taken about a week ago, but as you can see things are coming along. Since these were taken the floors have been completed and now we are just putting the final touches on it all. Hopefully the guys will be finished this week so I can have my house back and then all we do is wait for the cabinets. Whoo Hoo!

My gummy grin is almost gone

2007-08-24T14:57:00.000-05:00

Well guys get a good long look, because this gummy grin is a thing of the past. Bill's counsin Claire took this picture in Colorado, and by the time we got home we had two little teeth poking out of the gums. Mommy is hoping to a get shot sometime soon for all to see, but alas this gummy little grin that makes mommy smile and smile is long gone...soon to be replaced by a fabulous toothy grin.

Puppy teeth here we come.

Beware of Singing Beasts

2007-08-15T11:53:00.000-05:00

When hiking always beware a singing beast. Elie is a natural born hiker. Bill and I took her with us Monday on a 3 hour hike between Frisco and Silverthorne and she sang the whole way....well until we started down the mountain and she got tired of being in the pack so daddy just carried her.

Colorado has been a welcome reprive from the 102 degree heat they are experiencing in KC. Also the dust and sand that are being kicked up by the drywalling currently taking place at home.

Today is our last full day here. Elie is napping this morning before we go out on another little hike. It is overcast and a bit chilly at 60 degrees, but no one here is complaining.

We plan to have a lunch of leftover steak salad and then dinner at Ti Amo tonight. We head down the mountain tomorrow and should be safely home in KC by 6pm.

Making Baby Food for Elie

2007-08-02T18:02:00.001-05:00

Today Elie and I hung out with Max and Lucy for the day while Kristin was at work. What fun! We went for a walk, played on the jungle gym out back, took pictures, had lunch and then went to the pool when Kristin got home.

But most importantly Lucy and I made Elie's first batch of baby food. We don't think it came out so great. I didn't read the directions fully so the potato was sticky and gluey and Elie wasn't impressed. We still haven't tried carrots, but coming soon to an infant near you. We'll keep you posted on how well carrots go over.

We had such a big day that Elie didn't even get out of the parking lot before she was asleep in her carseat.... and two hours later is still snoozing. I have to believe that means mommy won't be getting much sleep tonight.

Oh well we try.

Week Two of the Renovation

2007-08-02T17:17:00.000-05:00

Well we are nearly though week 3 of the Renovation and I'm just getting around to posting our week 2 pictures. As you can tell things are coming along just had we had hoped. Last week they finished much of the demolition and began framing. You can sure see the difference between the first set of pics and these. There is now a window where a door used to be and a door where a window used to be. More walls are gone and who knows what else.

I'm not sure you'll be able to see much progress this week as they have been focusing on finishing the framing and electrical work.

The exciting news is that we measured for cabinets yesterday. So once they are ordered then we are 6-7 weeks out. We have a good idea on about our countertops and sink, and will finalize our appliances before the Sears sale ends this weekend.

Next week the guys will be finishing the HVAC and begin the rock and tape process, just in time for Elie and I to head to Colorado. How did I plan this so well? We will be there till the 16th, hopefully then life can get back to some kind of normal.

Haircuts with Daddy

2007-07-29T21:11:00.000-05:00

Phil Brancato has been cutting daddy's hair since he was Elie's size. He and his wife Marie have become like family to the Patterson's...cutting Big Bill, little Bill and Evan's hair for over 30 years.

So like her Daddy did before her, Elie goes to see Phil even though she doesn't have any hair to cut yet. If you are wondering why she looks sooo cute the outfit is one Phil and Marie gave her...plus she has a soft spot for older men.

Sundays with Grammy and Grandad

2007-07-29T20:56:00.000-05:00

One of our favorite things to do on Sunday morning (besides going to church of course) is meet Grammy and Grandad for breakfast at Bell Steet Mamma's. Today was no different. It was especially good for momma and daddy as Elie has been getting up a couple of times in the night again. A good old waffle and a diet coke will cure just about anything. Afterwards we headed over to Grammy and Grandad's for some quality time with them and the dogs (Harley and Morgan). Elie helped Grammy shop, watched fun videos with Grandad and let Harley lick her feet. Momma and Daddy had a little quiet time together, then headed off to shop for appliances.

We ended the day at our neighborhood favorite Sharpe's. We usually go there for breakfast, but have recently found they have a good affordable dinner menu. Elie ate her biscut and our pal Jenny the waitress got a kick out of the mess she made...good thing:)

Getting Bigger

2007-07-26T14:21:00.000-05:00

Just a quick note to say that Elie is doing well and growing as expected. We had our six month check-up and shots just moments ago. She is 27 1/4 inches long which keeps her in the 90th percentile in height and she weighs 17.2 pounds putting her in the 80th percentile. Fortunately she didn't get the Berger head...that remains in the 40th percentile.

The bigger news is that he encouraged us to start her on REAL FOOD, not just cerel. So sweet potatoes, avacados and bananas here we come!

So I promise to get photos from the beach up. Maybe I'll start that right now while Elie sleeps and the boys bang away at the kitchen downstairs.

And the Walls Come Crumblin Down

2007-07-24T21:55:00.001-05:00

So what you probably really want to see are pictures of Elie at the beach. But I have to tell you as fun as they are the Kitchen renovation will blow your mind.

Week One: Elie, Bill and I are off to the beach and the first picture is what our kitchen looked like before we left.

The next two are what we returned to. OH MY GOSH. It was crazy and exciting all at the same time. What an incredible transformation this will be. Not only for our kitchen but for our relationship as well.

Let me illustrate by asking you to describe window depth and header beams in Spanish to a Frenchman. Think you can do it? Well, we think we can and actually are doing it. Inches of dust, no airconditioning and living in one room with Elie haven't detered us. We still love each other...but let's remember it is still week one.

I'll put photos of the trip up tomorrow. Until then, dare to dream.

Learning To Swim

2007-07-08T17:53:00.000-05:00

The dog days of summer are here and just in time for our trip to the beach. To prepare I thought Elie needed to have been to the pool at least once, since taking a bath really isn't her favorite pass-time. Much to my glee she took to the water like a fish. Looking pretty cute in the swim suit Miss Kim and Delilah Belle gave her.

Lucy is still taking great photos of Elie's summer (Monday's and Tuesdays) this past week Miss Fonise played with the kids in the sprinkler and Elie LOVED it. Since we won't make it to the pool this weekend I hope she will still love it next week when we reach the beach.

We had a quiet 4th of July. We went for a walk then over to Grammy's for a picnic. When we got home Elie took a nap and it began to rain so we skipped our annual picnic for some quiet family time.

This weekend has been a bit of a blur. Bill and I have been preparing for the kitchen remodel. I'll blog about that maybe tomorrow or later in the week. We have also been visiting Grammy in the hospital. Wow does she look great for someone who just had hip replacement surgery. I'm not sure we will make it out to see her today since Elie is napping as I write and will hopefully go down at her ususal bedtime of 8pm.

Did I mention how much I love my husband?

2007-07-01T20:27:00.001-05:00

You know how you have those weeks that aren't bad but they just make you tired? Well that would describe last week in a nutshell. Nothing particularly bad happened, it just made me tired. And then there was Bill. He sent the most amazing arrangement of flowers...just because. His words were, because we made it through June, because it was a rainy day. Just because.

We had a quiet family weekend. Stayed in all day Saturday, dinner at Sharp's on Saturday night. We had a fun breakfast today with Grammy and Granddad at Bell Street. Then Elie went over to play with Grammy and Granddad while mommy and daddy worked in the basement. We think the dogs weren't the hit they had been the week before because poor Grammy and Granddad had a crying baby for 2 hours! They are the best!

So it is Sunday night and we are winding down. Elie is looking forward to hanging out with Lucy, Max and Miss Fonise tomorrow and mommy will be working on her project with Miss Wendy and the Kitchen renovation.

Girls Lunch

2007-06-29T14:33:00.000-05:00

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Click to play Make your own Smilebox

The last couple of days have been a bit weary for Elie. And now mommy knows why....baby girl was tired. We skipped Music Class this morning for a long morning nap then went to lunch with mommy's friend Tricia from work. As a treat on my way home I picked up my usual diet coke and cookie from McDonald's and Elie didn't even make it through the drive through before she sacked out. Closing in on an hour now napping in the car seat. Tonight I'm off to a visitation for a friend's brother. If you haven't tried Smilebox it is a ton of fun, just wish they had more photo e-choices.

First day with the new blog!

2007-06-27T15:09:00.000-05:00

Well, I'm not very hip and with it. And I sure have a hard time keeping in touch these days. So I thought a quick and easy solution would be a blog where Bill and I could let our friends and family know what goes on with us on some sort of regular basis. We'll try to be brief but keep you posted on all Elie's new "features".

Stop by regularly and let us know what you think.

Ali