March of Dimes

We had a lot of fun this weekend! Saturday, we attended the horse races in Jackson. Everything was a buck. Four of us munched on popcorn, pop, nachos, hotdogs and gambled on horsies for3 hours on a $50 bill. Ryan had fun and even extended his bedtime until after 10 p.m. WOW!

Yesterday, we walked for babies and helped raise over $70,000 in Jackson County. And by walk...I mean, we walked...and walked...and walked. It

was 7 miles, but at 5 months pregnant it was as challenging as my 20 mi/day walk for breast cancer I participated in last year. Ryan had fun at the "party" where he hugged Poo and Tigger, blew bubbles, ate pizza, and put up with 2 hours of riding in the stroller.

Later in the evening, Jim proved his superheroism once more by playing non-stop with Ryan while I lounged. I'm still having a hard time finding the energy to even type this blog!

You Found the Refrigerator!

I had a regular check-up with my pregnancy doctor last week and I am still kind of chuckling about his salution. He says, "How are you Carol...I see you found the refrigerator!"

I'm thinking, gosh, am I having a conversation with my brother or my doctor? The truth is, I did put on 10 pounds in four weeks and am now officially wearing maternity clothes. I keep telling myself to pay better attention to my eating habits but I didn't think I was doing too badly. Lately, it seems like we are doing a lot of running around and eventually end up in the fast food line. I'm sure that's a major culprit.

Oh well, at least I have an excuse for a few more months and then I will have to be really committed to getting into shape. (Easier said than done, I know.) Jim, Ryan, and I will be walking for babies on Sunday for the March of Dimes. I have been trying to raise funds for that worthy cause. Feel free to contact me if you would like to make a small donation in the name of your children, grandchildren, or even Baby Ladd.

Remembering Norm

Today we will be going to a visitation for the death of another family friend, Norm. It is really sad to lose a loved one who always managed to make everyone laugh. It is good to hear recounted stories of all the good times shared between families and friends. That is how we help our loved ones to "live" in the hearts of the living. Our thoughts and prayers go out to those who loved Norm. He will be missed.

In Memory

I read in the obituaries today that my childhood neighbor lady and friend of the family passed away. She was a courageous lady who lost her legs to complications of diabetes. With great determination and zest for life, she persevered. She walked for years on prosthetic legs and continued to make everyone around her laugh. Her memory will live in my heart as a reminder to live each day fully and to go on with passion even when we are faced with obstacles. Rest in peace Nancy. You are fondly remembered.

Cheezy!

Here are some of Ryan's favorite poses. Of course mom and dad encourage silliness!

An Excuse to Play Doh

I love being a parent. It is so exciting to look at life through the eyes of children. Think of all the things you get to re-experience when you hang out with kids. I mean, how can you explain playing with Play Doh as an adult. That would seem weird. But with kids, you can use them as an excuse to play. My little artist is getting really good at making snakes and balls.

Eggstatic for Easter!

Sorry for the delay in posting. Time gets away from me.

Ryan adores his Easter Eggs! We colored them at Grandma's and only managed to ruin two areas of her carpet. Every time the refrigerator opens, Ryan makes a plea to hold his Easter eggs.



Keep checking...I'll post more holiday pictures soon.