February 28th

A couple of weeks ago I bought Elmo Fizzy Tub Color Tablets at Wal-Mart, and tonight we used them for the first time.  Zach chose red, and was amazed when the water changed colors.  Chris was worried it would stain his skin, but it didn't.  He still doesn't like bubbles in the bath, but at least we found something new to make bathtime more fun!

February 27th

We had a GREAT weekend away.  Here is a picture of Zach in the resort lobby while we were checking out.  He was exhausted from all the swimming, staying up late watching Elmo DVDs, and sleeping in a big bed!

February 26th

Saturday at Honey Creek brought more swimming and a delicious dinner (and drinks) at Krazy Connie's Landing.  See more pictures of the weekend HERE

February 25th

Friday night we rushed down to Honey Creek Resort after work to meet Papa, Mimi, Uncle Kyle, and Aunt Amber.  The water park closes at 9, and we wanted Zach to swim a little so he would be really excited about Saturday.  He had a blast running between all of the water features, and was a natural in the pool.  He called the slides "weeees" and convinced everyone to go down with him.

February 24th

No words needed...just my handsome little boy.

February 22nd

Today when we got home from daycare, Zach found the Sunday newspaper in the garage, still in the bag.  He picked it up, carried it upstairs, dumped it out and flipped through section after section like a little old man.  It was adorable!  Once he was done, he put them all in a big pile and went on to playing with toys.  He is such a character.

February 21st

Zach has gotten so expressive lately with both his stories and his facial expressions.  After a few shots, we finally got a smile!

February 19th

Today we had lunch with some NICU nurses, graduates, and current NICU parents.  Walking into Blank with Zach is such a surreal experience.  It looks and smells exactly the same as it did a little over 2 years ago when our whole world revolved around that one room, but this time I am holding the perfect little hand of my amazing little boy.  My heart is full of love and contentment instead of worry and anticipation.  I wish I could eloquently express how those 19 days changed me forever.  I love more deeply, I genuinely appreciate kindness, and I know true fear and strength.  I can't wait until Zach is older and we can tell him how our families rallied around us and got us through the scariest thing we will ever have to go through.  Everyone at the lunch was amazed at how big Zach was and how well he talked for barely 2.  I beamed with pride showing off my little survivor.

February 18th

Little Man, you are fearless...and you scare the heck out of your mama!  You are going to be a man's man just like your daddy, assuming you can get over your disgust of having your hands dirty.

February 17th

Just when you think you can't take anymore winter, God sends a 70 degree day to Iowa in February!  We took advantage of every minute.  Zach got to ride his new bike he got for Christmas.  We walked to the pond by our house.  We played basketball in the driveway.  Chris and Zach played with tools in the garage.  It was a great night, and made me very anxious for Spring!  Being outside definetly agreed with Zach, because his blue eyes were as bright as ever!

February 16th

This picture is actually quite horrible.  You can see the garbage can, and the messy kitchen floors, and the shadow is terrible...but Zach wouldn't stand still or get into the "good" light long enough for a picture.  :)  He was so proud to be pushing baby Buddy in his new shopping cart.  Less than 2 minutes later he dumped over the cart and the baby on the floor and drove over him with his dump truck.  I guess that is a great respesentation of my little man though; sweet & loving combined with rough & tough.  I guess he is his Daddy's boy afterall.

February 14th

Today was not only Valentine's Day, but also Mimi's birthday.  Since Zach is a pro at blowing out candles from his own birthday, he decided he wanted to help Mimi out.

February 13th

As a member of the Lil' Cyclone Club, you got invited to a women's basketball game to celebrate January birthdays.  You got to eat cupcakes with Cy and your name on the scoreboard!  You thought the band was the best part, just like at the football game.  Those music lessons are paying off!  More photos of the day HERE

February 12th

You and your daddy are two peas in a pod.  This picture is of you two "patiently" waiting for the waffles to be ready for breakfast.  You both look like you could have used another hour of sleep!

February 11th

I know someday you will get in trouble for sticking out your tongue at people...but not today Little Man!  This face warms my heart and makes me smile!

February 10th

Today we got our Valentine's Day cards ready to be sent to our family & friends.  I have always dreamed of doing projects with my kids, and today you actually helped decorate the envelopes with stickers, even signing "more" when you were ready for the next sticker.  I look forward to many more holiday projects!

February 9th

Is winter almost over?!?!?  You are adorable in your hat, but I am tired of bundling you up!

February 7th

Our busy weekend caught up with Zach, and today he woke up with a terrible cold.  We spent the day watching DVDs, cuddling, and playing tractors.  The top picture is him on the couch watching Elmo.  He made sure baby Buddy and his stuffed Elmo got to enjoy it too.  The bottom picture was him watching for his Daddy to come home from work.

February 6th

Today was Super Bowl Sunday.  We had a party at Mimi & Papa's house.  The best part of the whole game was watching Zach dance to the half-time show music.  He had a blast boogieing down with Uncle Kyle & Aunt Amber, and even learned how to "fist pump".  In an attempt to save them the embarrassment, I won't post pictures of the dance party, but just this picture of Amber & Zach being cheesy!  Go Packers!

February 5th

 

Today was a busy day!  We started the day off by watching Noah's first wrestling meet at Southeast Polk.  He looked adorable in his singlet!  Later we went sledding at Lion's Park in Altoona.  To finish the day off, we went to dinner with Grandma & Papa Palmer.  Zach was exhausted by the end of the day, and so were his parents!

February 3rd

Tonight Zach got his picture taken for Valentine's Day cards.  Love was definitely in the air...or maybe on the arm.  <3  Here is a preview!

February 2nd

I just can't get enough of Zach's facial expressions lately.  This morning we were playing and he started laughing and covered his mouth to hide his giggles.  Everyday he is a little less baby and a little more big guy.

February 1st

Let the fun begin!  Zach has started to show signs of potty training readiness, so today we officially started trying.  He likes his new potty, but has yet to successfully use it.  Wish us luck, we are going to need it!