The McGowin Pack

6-month checkup

2012-01-16T14:09:00.005-05:00

check out his two teeth

Seth saw the doctor today for his 6-month checkup. I've been anxiously awaiting this appointment because Seth has been super fussy for almost three weeks. Seth is a great night-time sleeper but has a hard time napping. For several months I've nursed him to sleep and sometimes he's stayed asleep after putting him down and sometimes he's woke up. Typically he wakes up and then doesn't get a true nap in during the day. It's almost as if our friend's visit (Jess & Avery) jinxed us. At that time they were using the Ferber method to address their baby's night time sleeping issues. It was at this time that Seth's fussy nature became much more extreme.

Throughout my parenting years (only 2 1/2) I've basically acted according to instinct. It's worked so far with Sam, but not so much with addressing Seth's fussiness. So, I decided to consult literature on sleep and then discuss the problem at today's appointment. I now feel a whole lot better about Seth's complete inability or disinterest in soothing himself.

Basically, my pediatrician said there is no right or wrong way of helping your baby sleep. Different methods work for different babies and a whole lot of sleep "specialists" are making tons of money by writing books about one method that works for a few babies. I told him someone was making a lot of money off of me with all the freakin' pacifiers I've bought for Seth (he hates everyone). As for sleep books, I haven't purchased any, just borrowed a few from friends. I asked the pediatrician his thoughts as to when babies should completely self-sooth. His feeling is that, at 9-months, parents should begin to expect their babies to sooth themselves to sleep, if they haven't already learned, but until then it is perfectly fine to help babies fall asleep.

My approach now is to use a combination of patting, rocking, and nursing to help Seth fall asleep. I will try the non-nursing approaches first, and then when necessary nurse. I just can't do the "cry-it-out" (leave him in the crib and periodically encourage him thru voice) method anymore. I've tried it and Seth has cried for hours. It makes me feel like a terrible mother....as for Seth and sleep habits after 9-months, only time will tell :)

Measurements:

17 1/2 inch-head circumference (75%ile)

26 inches height (25%ile)

14 lbs., 7 oz weight (5%ile)

Seth dropped in weight from 25%ile to 5%ile. Doctor is not worried. Thinks Seth will be on the small size and will probably gain weight at a faster rate once he's eating solid foods.

** Seth has two teeth now. They finally came thru his gums a few days ago. I do think teething has contributed to increased fussiness, but only minimally.

New Year's Weekend

2012-01-08T15:52:00.005-05:00

Joseph, Seth, Sam, & Jedi

Baby Drew (6-weeks)

Seth, Sam, and Henry

Seth & Henry trying to hold hands.

My New Year's weekend started off with a lunch and shopping excursion with my good friend, Sara and her new baby, Drew. I met Sara living in Greenville prior to either of us having kids. Sort of weird how both of our lives have changed so much in such a short period of time.

Later that night our Winston-Salem friends arrived with their baby, Henry. Jess, Avery, Joseph, and I had a memorable dinner conversation. Topics of conversation included placentas, crazy court cases, and Ferber's methods for getting babies to sleep. Jess enjoyed the white bean-chicken chili I made while Avery ate his dependable, gluten-free meal brought from home. I guess our REALLY well done steak cooked for Avery's last visit was enough to convince him he needed to bring his own food on future visits.

New Year's Eve day was fairly uneventful. I can't remember much because Seth didn't sleep well the night before and I was exhausted. I was in bed by 9:30 PM. I'm told Joseph stayed up past midnight and finished the book he was reading.

NewYear's Day we went out to eat for breakfast to our favorite breakfast place, The Early Girl Eatery and to my surprise, didn't have to wait for a table!!! Following breakfast we all went for a hike. Jedi even came along with us for the adventure.. What a great beginning to 2012.

More Christmas photos

2012-01-08T15:47:00.002-05:00

Sam and my friend's son at the Grove Park Inn

Sam with her new Princess Puzzle

Sam left Santa lollipops for Christmas.

Our perfect tree

Christmas Time Arrives

2012-01-08T15:43:00.001-05:00

Sam playing with her new Tinkerbell Flashlight (one of several x-mas gifts from Santa)

Sam and her cousin Kameran taking a break from Hide and Seek

My friend, Barb, reading to the kids.

The human McGowins ventured to Mississippi for X-mas. It was our longest road trip with kids to date. We (Joseph) drove approximately 10 hours each way while I entertained the kids. Sam collected three cow watches from "Chick Fil-A" (two red, one blue) and made some friends on various indoor playgrounds, also at Chick Fil-A. Seth tolerated most of the drive; we were lucky. Our time with Joseph's family was fantastic. Sam's hide-and-seek skills and coloring skills improved tremendously over our journey. My 37th birthday was during our stay in Mississippi and i celebrated with a vanilla latte at a local coffee shop and breakfast at Cracker Barrel. Our waitress decided I was looking a little pale so she decided to dump a bowl of gravy on my chair and feet. I have yet to wash the dried gravy off my shoes.

Previous to the Christmas holiday we received a visit from my friend, Barb, from Chapel Hill. She brought her 5-yr-old son who Samantha absolutely loved. We all checked out the top ten gingerbread houses from the National Gingerbread House competition, which were displayed at the Grove Park Inn. This was our visit visit to the "Inn".... soooo cool, but way too crowded for me. The lobby alone was packed with guests and schleps like me.

As for the canine McGowins, we utilized an in-home pet sitting service, which I highly recommend. Bailey, Jedi, Gracie, and Ella enjoyed Christmas with their new BFF, in the comfort of own home.

The funniest, most daring person in the world

2011-12-20T18:03:00.002-05:00

My friend, Jen, left for a family vacation to Italy yesterday. She has three kids and travels all over with them. She sent an email describing the start of her trip. The entire email is hilarious... here's the introductory paragraph.

"Does anyone think that a baby barfing up her chocolate stars cereal on the way to the airport is an omen? Silly me, I thought it was because she gets car sick on the way to airports. Anyway, no problem! The carseat gets folded up and put in a bag and checked with other luggage, so the smell is someone else's worry. She was wearing a jacket, that can be crumpled up and shoved in a suitcase for later cleaning."

As I think about our upcoming road trip to a very far place I am wondering what trials and tribulations we will go through...

Regrets and resolutions.

2011-12-20T12:43:00.004-05:00

Below is a post from my friend, Jess', blog. I really liked it and wanted to put it on my blog with my own responses:

This is the time of year we tend to think about next year, and why not the next part of our lives? Here is a snippet from a palliative care nurse.When questioned about any regrets her patients had or anything they would do differently, common themes surfaced again and again. Here are the most common five:
1. I wish I’d had the courage to live a life true to myself, not the life others expected of me.
This was the most common regret of all. When people realize that their life is almost over and look back clearly on it, it is easy to see how many dreams have gone unfulfilled. Most people had not honored even a half of their dreams and had to die knowing that it was due to choices they had made, or not made.

It is very important to try and honour at least some of your dreams along the way. From the moment that you lose your health, it is too late. Health brings a freedom very few realise, until they no longer have it.

My thoughts: I began living by my own expectations in college and it was liberating. I had to cut ties with a few people, though, whose expectations I'd never fulfill. I am a happier person for it and have no regrets.

2. I wish I didn’t work so hard.
This came from every male patient that I nursed. They missed their children’s youth and their partner’s companionship. Women also spoke of this regret. But as most were from an older generation, many of the female patients had not been breadwinners. All of the men I nursed deeply regretted spending so much of their lives on the treadmill of a work existence.

My thoughts: I admire Joseph for his work ethic and for sticking by his philosophy of having a balanced life. I am grateful he is around to share in family activities and for his personal desire to be present in my life and our children's lives.

3. I wish I’d had the courage to express my feelings.
Many people suppressed their feelings in order to keep peace with others. As a result, they settled for a mediocre existence and never became who they were truly capable of becoming. Many developed illnesses relating to the bitterness and resentment they carried as a result.
We cannot control the reactions of others. However, although people may initially react when you change the way you are by speaking honestly, in the end it raises the relationship to a whole new and healthier level. Either that or it releases the unhealthy relationship from your life. Either way, you win.

My thoughts: You don't know me if you think I suppress my feelings. I believe this exact statement contributed to my mother's cancer diagnosis and subsequent death and I certainly don't want the same fate for myself. Speak out people.

4. I wish I had stayed in touch with my friends.
Often they would not truly realize the full benefits of old friends until their dying weeks and it was not always possible to track them down. Many had become so caught up in their own lives that they had let golden friendships slip by over the years. There were many deep regrets about not giving friendships the time and effort that they deserved. Everyone misses their friends when they are dying.
It is all comes down to love and relationships in the end. That is all that remains in the final weeks, love and relationships.

My thoughts: I used to be better at this, but it has become difficult with children. I will try harder. My friends are so important to me and provide balance in my life.

5. I wish that I had let myself be happier.
This is a surprisingly common one. Many did not realize until the end that happiness is a choice. They had stayed stuck in old patterns and habits. The so-called ‘comfort’ of familiarity overflowed into their emotions, as well as their physical lives. Fear of change had them pretending to others, and to their selves, that they were content. When deep within, they longed to laugh properly and have silliness in their life again.
When you are on your deathbed, what others think of you is a long way from your mind. How wonderful to be able to let go and smile again, long before you are dying.
Life is a choice. It is YOUR life. Choose consciously, choose wisely, choose honestly. Choose happiness.

My thoughts:.... happiness is a choice. This really caught me in my tracks. I need to focus on the positive more and must remind myself this every day. I am happy, but could be happier. Thankfully our community is filled with happy people.... I believe happiness spreads.

New Wheels

2011-11-22T15:10:00.004-05:00

For months I have been agonizing over what new car to buy. And for months Joseph has made me get past one obstacle after another, obviously delaying the inevitable. I'm totally excited to announce my new car purchase: a Honda Pilot.... let me just list every task completed before the purchase:

1) Study Consumer Reports.... well, memorize consumer reports

2) Test drive, and test drive, and test drive again (my doing)

3) Find this or that object packed away in unlabeled boxes in our attic and garage for Joseph

a) some angel given to us by a medical practice wanting to hire joseph

b) two framed cycling pictures (of pro cyclists)

4) Choose a car, tell joseph...reconsider....choose another car, talk to joseph....reconsider

5) Study consumer reports again

6) test drive again

7) Clean the Subaru

8) Sell the Subaru

9) Debate on which model car to get with Joseph.... "His advice.... "Wether you like it or not I'm getting a camper, so get whatever you want... you'll have the car until it dies"

10) Come to peace with my decision

11) Find out how much I can get the car for... I'm not a car person and I had no idea where to start. Thanks to USAA insurance and USAA's car buying program I found a starting point.

12) Negotiate with dealers.

13) Read thru dealers' BS.

14) Negotiate, read thru the BS

15) Investigate online what others are paying for the same car. I recommend reviewing the forum on Edmunds.com for assistance.

16) Finalize out the door price

17) Purchase vehicle

I should mention this whole experience has been eye opening and very rewarding. Stressful, but educational. So, I am available for hire should anyone need guidance thru the car buying process!!!

Oh, to the people buying the Subaru, we better seal this deal tomorrow.

Thanks Joseph for your support.

J+A=HMT

2011-11-22T14:55:00.002-05:00

A few weekends ago we were visited by Jess & Avery Telligman and their new family member, Henry Miles Telligman. Sam got to hang out with her favorite Winston-Salem "auntie", Jess, who Sam confirmed was a girl, while Seth got to make friends with a fellow camper-to-be, Henry. Sam is just now learning the concept of boy vs. girl, and enjoys labeling us. Most of the time she gets it right! It was sooooooo great to hang out with our friends, meet their first born child, and observe them in their new roles as parents. They are doing a great job.

Shut In Ridge Run

2011-11-22T14:40:00.004-05:00

Joseph recently ran in the Shut In Ridge Run, in Asheville, NC; an 18-mile trail run that will ruin anyone's quads...or ankles, knees, wrists, or fingers should one fall. Considering Joseph trained minimally for this race, he did great. Sam thoroughly enjoyed cheering on the finishers while I cursed every female finisher for having the dedication, commitment, and hardcore conviction I currently do not possess. I've always felt that the excuse, lack of free time, for not exercising really meant "mismanaged time" and "I'm lazy", but now I find myself saying that. Well, I do have the time. I can get up earlier and work out, but at this point in time sleeping just seems WAY more necessary. So, someday, I hope to re-prioritize my life and be fit again. But, for now, it's just gonna have to be "sleep" over "exercising" in those early morning hours. Congrats to Joseph for a great race and finishing with a very good time.

Halloween Pics

2011-11-07T14:15:00.003-05:00

Pre-festivities

Monkey Boy- He filled out the outfit more than sam did two years ago.

Sam riding "Fred"

Samantha was Abby Cadabby for Halloween this year and Seth was a monkey, the same monkey Sam was two years ago. Rather than trick-or-treating we met up with friends at a Fall Festival downtown. We arrived early for the festival in anticipation of riding a pony. After entering the festival we made a b-line for the ponies. Sam, being one of the early-birds, got to ride a pony twice. She LOVED it and insisted we go back after her second ride, but by then, a line of kiddies was in the making. Sam's "BFF", Molly, also road a pony, but asked to get off after her pony sneezed.

Most recent visitors

2011-11-03T15:02:00.003-04:00

greg making airplane sounds at the park

Aunt Mary

The site of the festival

Greg and Mary with Seth

If you want family to come visit then have a baby. Both brothers came to visit us this past month. Greg and my sister-in-law wanted to come the weekend after Matt and his family were here, but I told them back to back visits were too much. They gladly came a few weeks later. Greg, who's all about the "country club scene" really liked Asheville, our house, and our property. He didn't get to experience Sam's favorite activity, the "drum circle" like I had hoped, but he got the idea. I think the good drummers were at the LEAF festival, leaving the "want-to-be's" to lead the circle and keep the beat, resulting in a not so great musical improvisation.

Greg gave up his weekend naps to see some of the Asheville sites on foot. We kept quite busy walking, going to the park, eating at 12 Bones, and attending Stingy Jack's Pumpkin Patch Festival. Greg and my sister-in-law, Mary, witnessed Samantha go on her first hay ride. They watched Seth so I could go along for the ride. I played "horrible hostess" again, though. Poor Mary had to cook chili b/c I, a) am the worst cook and had never cooked chili, b) had nothing planned or prepared for dinner Saturday night.... As of last week I am no longer a virgin chili-maker. I made my first batch of chili and didn't even use a spice packet.... Sorry Joseph if the chili wasn't spicy enough for you. At least we were able to eat it :)

When they're not playing tennis....

2011-10-20T14:11:00.003-04:00

My brother and his family came to visit a few weeks ago. As most of you know, my brother and his family are tennis-obsessed; so obsessed my brother had a new ball hopper and case of balls shipped to our house. Most of their time is spent on the tennis court, but every now and then the kids take a break. Ryan spent the weekend playing football, and Alexa and Taylor played with Samantha and Seth. Despite being horrible hosts, we had a great time and hope they come back to visit.

Seth completes his first Chessie Rescue Mission

2011-10-20T13:49:00.004-04:00

#4 heading north to foster care

Two weeks ago, in a matter of 3 days, I received 3 called about a total of 4 chesapeake bay retrievers needing new homes. Two chessies were litter mates whose owners wanted to surrender them because they had mange & couldn't be bred. One chessie was picked up as a stray and the last chessie's owners moved into an apartment and could not take the dog with them. Ughhhh. After secretly cursing these people out I began to coordinate their transition into dog rescue and foster care. Now, Seth and I can proudly say all 4 chessies are safe and are on their way to finding new forever homes!!... I guess I should be happy that these people contacted a rescue group rather than dumping the dogs on the side of the road.

The doctors of the house

2011-10-19T12:51:00.006-04:00

Joseph Jr.

Happy after a long days work

the future Drs. Samantha & Seth McGowin

My friend, Amy, bought Seth personalized baby doctor "scrubs" for his "welcome to the world" present.. The "scrubs" are perfect and quite funny. Too bad he will outgrow them in the near future.... Now I have to decide whether to dress Seth in Sam's old monkey costume or dress him in his "Joseph Jr." outfit for Halloween. Any thoughts?

Pumpkin Pickin'

2011-10-18T15:38:00.003-04:00

I like this pic b/c Sam looks so small among the larger pumpkins.

Not sure why I placed Seth in the direct sun.... oops. at least it was only for a few minutes.

Sam, Seth, and I went on a short trip to pick out pumpkins. It's gorgeous here today, and to my understanding it's supposed to be freezing-ass cold by the end of the week. I'm dreading cold temperatures.

New Truck

2011-10-18T15:36:00.002-04:00

Here is Joseph's new truck. Samantha often requests to ride in the "big truck" over the car.

Seth turns 3-months

2011-10-15T19:41:00.002-04:00

The children are doing great. Seth is still a bit fussy and is quite gassy, but he's a lot of fun. He sleeps well most nights, takes a long nap late-morning, and then is fussy on and off until he goes to bed, usually between 9Pm-10PM. Sam is still a good big sister. She is entering a new phase of temper tantrums and has taken to screeching when she wants our attention. I've started reinforcing good meal times with stickers. She seems to be eating more volume with the introduction of the stickers. I am still having a difficult time dressing her in pants. They're all too big around her waist. Sam looks forward to Kindermusik class every week and I look forward to the days Joseph is at home with the family.

2-month checkup

2011-09-25T18:25:00.002-04:00

Seth had his 2-month checkup on the 19th. Pediatrician said he looks great. Seth weighed 11 lbs., 9 oz., three more pounds than Sam did at this age. I don't remember what his length and head circumference were, but he was around the 30%ile for height and 75%ile for head circumference, and somewhere between 25th and 50th%ile for weight. I hated watching Seth get poked for his immunizations. Sam helped me thru the shots and we were all smiles walking out of the office.

Getting ready for Halloween

2011-09-25T18:21:00.002-04:00

Sam is going to be Abby Cadabby for Halloween. Abby has been her favorite Sesame Street character for many, many months. I tried to get away with just putting the dress on Sam today, but Sam reminded me to put on "abby ears" before I could walk away....

Bye Bye Super Bitch

2011-09-20T08:59:00.004-04:00

A new era begins in the McGowin household. Joseph's red '93 Toyota truck went "bye-bye", and has been replaced by a new Toyota Tacoma. Your departure was bitter sweet for Joseph. He has many fond memories involving the truck, including many excursions into the woods with his Brittany, Taylor, and long trips to Mississippi. Joseph recently reminded me of our nick name for the old truck, "Super Bitch", which derived from a sticker on the hitch, "Super Hitch". I originally thought it said "super bitch" and when we first started dating I often wondered why he would have a sticker that said "super bitch".

Well, Super Bitch, thank you for treating my husband so well for the last 10 years. Thank you for hauling our sh*t up the mountain to our newest home. Thank you for making our Bonnaroo experience perfect. Thank you for allowing Bailey to poop in the back of you on almost every outing. Thank you for allowing Ella to rip your screens time and time again. Thank you for teaching me how to get a car to start by pushing it down a hill and "popping" it into second gear, or something like that. Thank you for allowing us to skip your much needed vacuuming and cleaning sessions, and for allowing our dogs' hairs to pile up in your cab. Thank you for showing me how much fun driving an old truck can be, and last but not least, thank you for being the modest friend you were to me, and for being the real reason I married my husband. I love you and you will always be missed!

Seth is already two months old

2011-09-15T21:30:00.003-04:00

I cannot believe Seth is now two-months-old. Time is just flying by, even faster than when Sam was a baby. Seth's two month checkup is not until next week. I am anxious to find out how much he weighs. He seems big to me, but Samantha was always so small and I suppose boys are bigger. From my perspective Seth is doing great. Sleeping for a five to six-hour stretch at night. some how, though, I find myself exhausted by 8Pm every night.

I have been discourage about not working out. With Joseph back at work I wasn't able to get out by myself with two kids. So, to solve the problem, I bought a double stroller. I couldn't be any happier with my purchase. It is still hard to work out like I would prefer, but at least i can get some fresh air and a small amount of exericise.

First Family Photo

2011-09-11T09:56:00.003-04:00

We are on a "cliff", overlooking the valley, and looking at our house from afar.

New photos

2011-09-10T09:49:00.002-04:00

Sam's idea of "pretty"... her strategic placement of a "hairclip" on her brother.

Uncle Greggy Jr..... Seth reminds me so much of my brother, Greg, in this picture.

Scroll down to a prior posting and compare this pic with the same pose of Sam at this age. Very similar expressions.

No news, just some new pics.

LAAFF: Asheville, NC

2011-09-06T14:36:00.004-04:00

Grandpa George, Grandma Karen, and Sam (in July)

People of A'ville....

Sam

"mato", "carrot", and "corn"

G2 and "Not grandma, Aunt Jill"

Hung out down town at the LAAFF festival (this weekend): Lexington Avenue Arts and Fun Fest, put on by the people of A'ville, for the people of A'Ville. We spent the holiday weekend with our friends, Jill and "G2", who were visiting from the Boston area. Joseph and I got the weekend off from reading Sam book after book. G2 took over our responsibilities and read to Sam over and over again. Jill's new name became "Not grandma, Aunt Jill". We tried to make Sam understand that Jill was NOT grandma. Grandma IS "hot", and to be called Grandma is a compliment, but still, we wanted Sam to know Jill was a totally different person. Thanks Jill for being such a good sport!

Sam and Seth @ roughly the same age

2011-08-28T14:15:00.005-04:00

OMG- I can't believe Sam had all this hair at such a young age. It is weird to see Samantha this small. And it is weird to have a baby with some fat on him. And, it is weird to see the differences in appearance/facial features at roughly the same age.

Seth turns 1 month

2011-08-13T15:58:00.003-04:00

Still sleep deprived but am having a bit of fun bonding with Seth. Sam still loves Seth, and I think Seth enjoys Samantha's constant chatter. Seth is still gaining weight much faster than Samantha did at this age. Is it due to the gender difference or is Seth going to be a bigger kid, overall? I wonder.

Daddy Duties

2011-07-26T15:25:00.004-04:00

Gardening #3

Duty #2

Entertaining Sam (this pic taken from our backyard last night. It's looking into our neighbor's backyard) Note: Rainbow in the background with slight cloud cover just over mountains.

Duty #1 Holding and watching Seth

2 week checkup

2011-07-26T15:05:00.002-04:00

Seth saw the doctor today and got a great report. He weighed 7 lbs, 7 oz. At discharge he weighed 6 lbs., 1 oz, so he is averaging about 2 oz. weight gain per day. Hopefully he continues on this path. If so, he may actually stay on the growth chart for weight, unlike Samantha. Samantha has always been a tiny bit below the growth curve, but at her 2-yr checkup she actually was at the 3rd percentile. Joseph and I predict Seth will favor me in the looks department. I am needing sleep and am amazed I am still standing. I forgot how much sleep deprivation affects your mental and physical state..... I did manage to nail the side of our garage and destroy the side view mirror on our Subaru today. Joseph suggested I was on the phone and not paying attention. I am chalking that wonderful move up to my sleep deprivation, as i was NOT on the phone. Or perhaps, it was my first time driving for two weeks..... maybe that had something to do with my poor maneuvering. Sorry Joseph.

Sam turns 2

2011-07-19T15:01:00.002-04:00

Bringing home a tiny baby guarantees you'll look at your older child/children differently. Sam, who is petite, seemingly has huge diapers and is just, all around huge now. I feel like she's grown leaps and bounds in a few days. I decided to move Sam's diaper changing table into Seth's room, which was somewhat emotional for me. It meant Sam was big, and grown up. It's all happened so fast.

We had a small birthday celebration for Sam on her official b-day. Patti, our faithful friend and neighbor from Greenville, came to help out for a few days. The three of us, plus her husband, Tom and daughter, Jamie sang "happy birthday" and Sam opened gifts, none of which were from Joseph and me. Ours are still unwrapped, in the closet. Tom won a gold medal with his choice of gift for Sam, a Strawberry Shortcake remote control car. Sam LOVES it. Patti, Tom, and Jamie then brought Sam out for lunch. It was perfect and Sam enjoyed all of the attention she got from her favorite friends.

Seth is here

2011-07-19T14:51:00.004-04:00

Seth's first breaths of room air. And, showing off all the meconium stained

amnionic fluid.

Day of Life 4

Arriving home. Giving Samantha her big sister gift, a

gigantic Elmo balloon!

Seth Christopher McGowin, born July 12, 10:37 AM. 6 lbs. 7 oz, 19 inches long. After a 5-day NICU (neonatal intensive care unit) stay and after 2 days at home he is doing great. He saw his pediatrician yesterday. His lungs were clear and verything else checked out great. According to their scale, Seth gained 7 ounces in a day, which is impossible. I can tell he's gained weight, though. He's nursing well and sleeping well. He hasn't woken Samantha up (yet) in the middle of the night!

5-days post due date

2011-07-05T09:18:00.003-04:00

Sam and Molly

Lard-ass Ash and my dad, visiting from Florida

Molly and Sam

Still no baby. I've tried everything. Different foods, pedicure (jess, it didn't work), exercise.... everything but castol oil. This past Saturday, Sam had a joint b-day party with her friend, Molly. Molly's parents made a cake for Sam and the two of them celebrated their 2nd birthdays.

Waiting

2011-06-27T15:28:00.003-04:00

Completed shed

joseph's garden. Anyone need squash?

The front

Marigolds in a pot

While waiting for this baby to join this world I took some pictures of our "grounds". Hope you enjoy them.

Samantha preparing for her role as "Big Sister"

2011-06-24T10:03:00.002-04:00

I decided to put Sam's "big sister" t-shirt on in hopes that it would get things started for me. Here's a shot of her practicing calling her mommy's friends and family to tell them the news. Unfortunately, there is no news yet.

The Shed

2011-06-23T14:51:00.002-04:00

While I was in Greenville getting ready for the house closing Joseph was back in Asheville erecting a shed to store our lawn and garden tools. Joseph hired a guy to build a structure to support the shed and then hired the guy to help him erect the shed. It's finally done. Here they are working together.

One house "homeowners"

2011-06-23T14:19:00.004-04:00

Gracie enjoying the view from the "keeping room", whatever that is.

A winter storm in Greenville a few years ago

Joseph and i closed on the sale of our house in Greenville today so we are very proud owners of just one home!! I am relieved to have all the house stuff done in Greenville, but am sad to leave Greenville behind. I have made great friends there and I hate to leave them all. I absolutely love my new friends in Asheville. They are great and i know our friendships will only get greater, but it's hard to leave my Greenville friends. I feel like I'm "officially" leaving them and that has me feeling sad.

I've been informed that the new owners of our house are our age and have two young boys. The boys are excited about the horse farm at the end of the road. The boys will be a great addition to the large group of girls who play in the neighborhood. I think our house and neighborhood are perfect for that family. I am happy for them, but do feel a little bitter sweet.

Happy Birthday Joseph

2011-06-10T21:47:00.003-04:00

Sam and Daddy watching Gracie swim

37 weeks prego

Today was Joseph's birthday. We took a trip to Graveyard Fields, in Pisgah National Forest. I had the pleasure of driving on the Blue Ridge Parkway for several miles.... Sam did a great job on her 2nd official hike. She managed to walk up several, several steps as we departed from one of the waterfalls. The blueberries were not yet ready for picking. Hopefully we can get back there in August to pick some of Samantha's favorite fruit. Happy 39th b-day Joseph!!!

Memorial Day Weekend Cookout

2011-05-29T10:26:00.006-04:00

Mark & Nariah

Christina, Dave, and MVW

Teri, with Molly, Sam, Eleanore, & Riley

Sam & Riley

Sam and her "BFF", Molly

Joseph and I daringly had a bunch of neighbors over for a cookout last night. We are not used to hosting more than two people at a time, so it was somewhat of a new experience for us. We think we pulled it off. Hopefully our guests had a good time. The weather was beautiful so we got to use our back patio, enjoy the view, and watch all the kids play together. We thoroughly enjoyed ourselves and are so grateful for all of our "new" friends.

34 Weeks

2011-05-23T15:36:00.004-04:00

Sam, Molly, and Molly's dad

34 weeks prego

I've been told, and it's been confirmed by ultrasound that my baby's head is DOWN!!! Keep your fingers crossed for a VBAC. I really don't want another cesarean section. I've been trying to get as much rest as possible so I am not in a deficit when Baby Boy McGowin arrives. Getting sleep is tough, though, when you have restless leg syndrome. At least I only have to deal with this crap when I'm pregnant. As for resting during the day, well, I've had these household projects to get done, like painting the last freakin' room of our new house, trimming the bushes at the end of our property, and organizing baby clothes. Paint job DONE, bushes ALMOST DONE, and organizing baby clothes, DONE, except if Sam finds them in the drawer and takes them all out when I'm not looking. I NEVER want to paint again. I NEVER want to trim these freakin' bushes again. And, well, organizing baby clothes isn't so bad....

Update on Sam:

As Sam approaches 2 years of age she is becoming much more toddler-like. Meaning, she throws temper tantrums in restaurants and at home, prefers to eat chips and cookies, and says "No" to everything. Our saint-of-a-daughter is tainting her reputation. She has challenged our ability to stay consistent, which is actually not a problem for either one of us, and has tested our ability to forgive instantaneously. It is amazing how many words and sentences an almost-2-yr-old can put together. Sam is learning to share and to take turns when she plays with her friend, Molly, and is learning how to be nice to and respectful of smaller/younger boys when she plays with her friend, Michael. Although we have had some challenging moments with Samantha we still think she is the best kid and cutest kid ever.

"Look like Mommy"

2011-05-01T21:11:00.003-04:00

A few weeks ago Samantha spontaneously started arching her back and sticking out her belly when she walked.... I guess to "look like mommy". So now, on demand, she "looks like mommy" or "walks like mommy". It's quite funny. Here are a couple of shots Joseph got today. I'm 31 weeks, and 3 days pregnant... Big and fat. Stupid me tried to go for a run today and pulled my groin.... I try to run on the flat parts of my walks and was feeling relatively strong today....Boy was I stupid. Reminder to my pregnant friends: Your ligaments are loose so don't over do anything :)

Easter Festivities

2011-04-24T21:19:00.003-04:00

Bailey and me on the hike. Glad it wasn't any hotter.

Sam sharing her Easter eggs with Ella.

Sam playing with "E" (one of the twins).

R & E ----more kids for Sam to play with.

Sam's second Easter was quite busy, but also relaxing. We started the day with a hike in Bent Creek. We came home and ate "" PB & J for lunch, which is Samantha's favorite. While Sam napped Joseph and I worked on the foundation/platform for our future shed. Joseph joined us for the last few measurements, sawing, and nailing and then played with Ella.

Have I mentioned we lucked out in the neighbor department once again??? Our Mississippi-NY couple next door invited us over for dinner. Their 17-month old identical twin grand daughters were there. Sam doesn't quite know how to handle the twins. She is a bit afraid of them. She's probably like, "what the heck is going on here. It's two against one, and the two look like each other." Hopefully she'll get used to playing with them.

We had a great Easter and thoroughly enjoyed the beautiful weather and the home-cooked Easter dinner.

The Asheville Influence

2011-04-18T22:10:00.003-04:00

Sam ready to hop on a Harley....wearing one of the dog's bandanas.

Molly & Sam watering the plants.

Molly gladly sharing her sandbox with Samantha.

Here are a few pics of Sam. One with her friend, Molly, who's 3 weeks older. Molly has the sandbox and Sam has the swingset. it's worked out well. This weekend I sewed a guitar on a t-shirt for Sam. I had to remind myself how to wind a bobbin and how to thread my machine. Wish I had more time for sewing and other crafty activities.

Amusement Park Injuries

2011-04-09T09:03:00.003-04:00

I came across this website which reports injuries and deaths resulting from various level roller coaster & train rides. it's very interesting. Check it out.

http://www.rideaccidents.com/

27 weeks pregnant

2011-04-01T16:46:00.002-04:00

2nd pregnancy and a whole lot bigger. Here I am with the usual messy hair.

Some great weather

2011-03-21T17:17:00.002-04:00

Sam is wearing her apparel from Busch Gardens. I'm trying to convince my neighbor to dress our kids as the Sesame street gang this Halloween.

First Belly Shots for Baby #2

2011-03-19T19:01:00.003-04:00

25 weeks pregnant and way bigger with baby #2

Sam kissing the baby belly!

Sam with her new shades next to one cool dude, Michael.

Sam and I have been traveling back and forth b/w Greenville and A'ville these last few weeks to get our house ready for the "awesome" real estate market. I met my goal of 3/17, and the house is on the market, FINALLY. It is bitter sweet. We are back in A'ville and are now able to relax a bit. We've squeezed in a few Kindermusik classes, play groups, and unplanned play dates these last few weeks. Now that the weather is nice all of the neighbors are outside with their kids.

Sam's latest hobbies are moving clothes from one drawer to another drawer, or from her drawers to where ever the she feels like it :) some of her hiding places include: her dirty laundry basket, the edge of the master tub, the baby swing, in various unpacked boxes, desk drawers..... She also loves to put things in the toilets. I found a toilet stuffed with toilet paper one day, then found a wash cloth in the toilet the next. I couldn't help but laugh.

New Friends

2011-03-04T16:12:00.004-05:00

Maggie, Michael, Molly, and Sam

Sam has made some new friends in Asheville. We've lucked out with fantastic neighbors and fantastic kids!! We hosted play group today. I felt so inadequate in the toy department..... Oh well. At least I have a very cool swing set.

The dogs

2011-03-04T16:06:00.003-05:00

Just wanted to remind everyone that we haven't forgotten about our dogs. They get plenty of attention and love, but I was feeling guilty that I stopped taking pictures of them, so here are a few I took today.

New Pictures

2011-02-09T19:22:00.003-05:00

Sam has her Valentine's Day t-shirt on, which has two of her favorite Sesame Street characters, Zoe and Elmo. She is also hugging her Tickle-Me-Elmo doll, which she often does. The princess crown thingy was given to me by my Sister-In-Law, Chris, for my bridal shower. Sam has used it more than I have!

Any good Boy names out there?

2011-02-04T17:00:00.003-05:00

Joseph and I found out this week that the baby in my belly, which I plan to deliver on June 30, 2011 is a BOY. So, if anyone out there has any original, cool, or exciting boy names, let me/us know!!

Snow, snow, go away

2011-01-15T13:35:00.004-05:00

Bailey doing what she does best, being goofy.

I'm ready for warm weather. Luckily, the sun is out today and it's in the 30's, so the snow is starting to melt. We got Sam out for another sledding expedition before the snow is all gone.

Big Sister

2011-01-13T14:06:00.004-05:00

For those who don't know, Samantha will be a big sister this summer. I am due June 30th. Not sure if we will find out the gender of Baby McGowin #2. We are very excited. I am 16-weeks pregnant today. No need to post pregnancy photos this time around.... why oh why are you always bigger the 2nd time around?

Asheville Snow

2011-01-13T13:51:00.005-05:00

Sam's sled, made by Jamie and Tom Reid

Jedi (far left), Bailey, Ella, & Gracie in backyard

Sam getting ready for the snow

Samantha after recovering from her face plant in the snow

New home, new snow. First time shoveling snow in over 13 years. Just lovely..... The comforting thing is knowing that Greenville, SC got just as much snow as we got here in Asheville. The dogs have enjoyed the snow, as has Samantha. Our Greenville neighbors, Jamie and Tom rigged up a sled for Sam. We asked if they had an old saucer/sled we could borrow for Samantha and we got much more than that. Have I mentioned, we have/had the best neighbors in the world. Actually, we've lucked out so far in the neighbor department in Asheville. Sam has a new friend, Molly, who is 2 1/2 weeks older than her. Molly's parents are very cool. Joseph is thankful that Molly's dad is a Seinfeld fan and can joke about "Man Bags" and Miatas (the car). Molly has a canine brother, named Burton, who is 12 yrs old and is much, much more laid back than Sam's 12-yr-old canine brother, Jedi. Ironically, Samantha and Molly will both become big sisters this summer. Our other neighbors are from Mississippi and NY, ironically (Joseph is from MS and I am from NY). And, neighbors who live behind/below us delivered brownies and blueberry muffins to our house this weekend!!! Can it get any better?

My Birthday: Sam meets Abby Cadabby

2010-12-31T15:58:00.003-05:00

Joseph, Sam, and I survived our trip to Florida. We had a great time visiting my dad and Karen, and saying a quick, "Hello", to my brother, Greg, and sister-in-law, Mary. Sam and I went to Busch Gardens, in Tampa, with my sister-in-law, Chris, nephew Ryan, his friend Cody, and niece, Taylor. We had an awesome day, despite being virtually elbow to elbow with the thousands of other people at the park. Sam particularly liked watching the Sesame Street characters dance and sing on stage. She even got to meet her favorite friend, Abby Cadabby. Joseph played a round of golf with my dad and Chris' dad while we fought the crowds at Busch Gardens. Joseph continued to work on getting his CME's before the deadline, Dec. 31, 2010 during the drip and shared some computer tips with my dad, in the process. Thanks Karen and Dad for a great trip. The weather sucked, but the company was great....As for Busch Gardens, we are definitely going back so Sam can have lunch with the whole Sesame Street gang.

For my birthday we got together for dinner with Matt, Chris, the kids, and my dad and Karen. Being with my family was fantastic.

Christmas Day 2010

2010-12-26T12:10:00.002-05:00

Sam's new tent.

Sam with Tickle-Me-Elmo

The Princess in her Cozy Coupe

It has almost been one month since I last posted anything and my friend, Jess, is on my case about keeping it updated.... Gotta love Jess and her diligence with keeping her blog current. So, Christmas was fantastic. My day started out with a trip to Starbucks for a 1/2 caf, grande, nonfat, pumpkin spice latte, no whip and a piece of pumpkin bread. Not sure which was better, the fact that I got to drive somewhere without a child in the backseat, or the coffee. I love Sam, but it is nice to drive somewhere without having to deal with a carseat every now and then. Sam, Joseph, and I had Christmas dinner with our favorite neighbors, the Reids. Patti (mom-Reid) baked the two of us a carrot cake to celebrate our birthdays. Thanks to the Reids, Sam received her first set of wheels, a pink Cozy Coupe, make by Little Tykes. We are all very thankful for our family and friends and hope that everyone has a safe and healthy 2011. Thanks to all who mailed us Christmas Cards. We love all of them.

On a more serious note, my cousin, David, was in the hospital last week with a serious condition. Doctors have suggested a diagnosis of Hodgkins Lymphoma. He is waiting for a confirmed diagnosis, dependent on the results of many tests. I have always thought fondly of David and feel terrible about his pending diagnosis. I am glad he is out of the hospital and with his family. He is in my thoughts and prayers.

Enjoy the New Year and expect more posts over the next few weeks. We leave for Florida tomorrow to visit my family and will surely have lots to document.

Mississippi Trip

2010-11-29T19:42:00.005-05:00

Click on this picture to enlarge and pay special attention to what the scoreboard says. It's promoting one of Ole Miss' finest, with a GPA of 1.7 ........ huh???

Tailgate tent in The Grove

Sam and me tailgating with Mississippi State fans behind us.

Sam in between her cousins, Drew and Kameron, along with a couple of Elmo dolls.

Joseph, Sam, Gracie (one of the dogs), and I made the journey to Mississippi for Thanksgiving. We met up with Joseph's family for the first part of our trip and his college roommate for the second half. Sam thoroughly enjoyed every minute of playing with her cousins, Drew and Kameron. She left Mississippi with a new favorite toy, a toy stethoscope.... How ironic. We discovered Samantha looks exactly like Joseph's sister, when she was a baby. Pretty crazy how much they look alike. Sam was on her best behavior for all of the trip, except for our dinner at Outback Steakhouse. Joseph and I, unfortunately, had to take turns eating and walking Sam around the restaurant to keep her from screaming at top volume. I don't blame her for not wanting to sit. We'd been in the car for over 7 hours and hadn't yet made it to our final destination.

On Friday through Sunday, we joined forces with the Zerfoss family and cheered on University of Mississippi football, in Oxford. Joseph and Matt (Joseph's college roommate) actually made it to the game, which Ole Miss lost, while Melissa (Matt's wife) and I returned home to watch HDTV in a warm house. It was "freezing" in Mississippi the last 3 nights we were there. It actually dropped down into the 20's Thanksgiving night. I was more than happy to leave "The Grove" (the tailgating area) and go back home. We finally made it back to our own home late Sunday night, after 10 hours of driving. I just love it when there is a car accident on a major interstate on a holiday weekend.

Black Widow???

2010-11-13T17:13:00.003-05:00

Does anyone know if this is a black widow spider? It was on our toilet seat. Just lovely.... There was a red blob on the back, but not in the shape of an hour glass.

Colder Temps

2010-11-08T18:32:00.004-05:00

Bailey, Ella, & Gracie enjoying cooler temps

New Hat #1

this hat/sweater set was knitted by my friend, Leslie Wyatt, and given to me at my baby shower. Samantha is wearing her Ugg slippers, which were really too big for her to wear last year. Our friend, Shala Wilson, gave those to Sam last year.

With the exception of today, the past several days have been cooler. So cool, I had to put hats on Samantha. Our upstairs heat is not working so on cold nights Samantha sleeps downstairs. Our garbage disposal isn't working, either. Why does everything have to break at one time?

Some more halloween pictures

2010-10-31T22:20:00.001-04:00

Quack Quack.

The crew: Ella, Gracie, Bailey, & Jedi

The crew plus Sam

Private Invitations

2010-10-31T15:09:00.004-04:00

Happy Halloween! Quack, Quack!

Taken a few weeks ago.

Taken a few days after her surgery on her eyebrow.

Dad & Sam watching football.

I am trying to set up my blog so that only people I invite to view my blog, can. Unfortunately anyone who wants to follow my blog by "invite" only has to have a google account. Several family members do not have a google account, and it is mostly for them (friends, too) that I created my blog. Not sure what to do....

Here are a few recent pictures of Samantha.

Bike Race pictures

2010-09-20T14:05:00.003-04:00

George Hincapie, in red

Ben King, Winner

Ben King

Here are some pics Joseph took at the US Pro Cycling Championships.

For my Cyclist friends

2010-08-12T21:27:00.003-04:00

Apparently Floyd Landis' old mountain bike ended up selling at a yard sale for $5. Avery, maybe you can add this to your collection :) You got $6,000? Copy and paste the link below.

http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/post/Bike-bought-for-5-at-yard-sale-belonged-to-Tour?urn=top-262060

Happy Birthday Behrett

2010-07-15T23:17:00.002-04:00

Samantha's long distance boyfriend, Behrett, turns 1 yr old on July 16th. She's never actually met him, but she's heard a lot about him. HAPPY BIRTHDAY BEHR.

Love Samantha.

Joseph's camping trip

2010-07-14T15:24:00.002-04:00

Joseph went camping with his friend, Avery, last week. He brought his favorite dog, Gracie, and Avery brought his two canine buddies, Daisy and Fletcher. They stayed at one of my favorite campsites, which unfortunately, now gets quite a bit of traffic.

10PM to 8:45 AM

2010-07-14T15:09:00.002-04:00

These are the hours I slept last night, which means Samantha also slept these same hours. She peed in her diaper and I didn't pee at all, so we both slept straight through the night. It was absolutely marvelous. If I could only get to bed at 10PM EVERY night...... too many things to do....

My dad's visit

2010-07-09T22:17:00.003-04:00

J and S waiting for my dad and Karen to arrive.

Grandpa George (my dad) and Sam.

Sam with her new dress on.

Sam in her new dress from Grandma Karen.

My dad and Karen came into town for a few days. We "dragged" them to a Victor Wooten concert. Actually, they didn't mind going at all. This is actually their second time seeing Victor Wooten live. First time was with me when we saw Bela Fleck and the Flecktones warm up for Dave Matthews in Greensboro, NC. Surprisingly, my dad was NOT the oldest person at the concert. Karen and my dad are so much fun to hang out with. They are pretty much up for anything.

More Family Photos

2010-06-29T12:19:00.004-04:00

Chris and Matt

Sam's Aunt Chris

Sam with her Uncle Matt

Sam's cousins: Ryan, Taylor, Alexa

Sam, Ryan, Taylor

Joseph and I really enjoyed our weekend with my brother, sister-in-law, nephew, and nieces. By the last day here Taylor decided she liked all the dogs, except Jedi. Jedi was his usual self but, he got to enjoy a few moments with everyone Sunday night during our s'mores making session at the fire pit. Joseph managed to get a few games off Alexa on the tennis court while I took photos of everyone. I wanted to take Alexa and Ryan for a ride in the canoe, but between swimming at the pool and playing tennis it never happened. Samantha loved her cousins and fought to stay awake all day to be with them. I literally had to take her next door to Patti's so she would take a nap. Thank you Patti for watching Sam and for getting her to take a nap :)

Tennis Phenoms

2010-06-28T14:28:00.003-04:00

Here are my nieces and nephew playing tennis during their visit to our house. I think Taylor blows me away the most b/c of her strokes and focus at the age of four. Check them out.

Alexa Goetz (age 8)

Ryan Goetz (age 10)

Taylor Goetz (age 4)

Matt's birthday

2010-06-22T13:05:00.005-04:00

It looks like Matt turned 3. It's hard to see the candles.

Are there 12 candles on this cake?

My brother, Matt, turned whatever age today. Can't keep track. He is the last of the June birthdays I have to remember. I searched through a few of the old family albums and found these pictures. "Happy Birthday Matt. Looking forward to seeing you in a few days."

2010-06-22T13:05:00.001-04:00

Rescue Friendly

2010-06-21T11:42:00.005-04:00

Tex (Chihuahua mix found 8 months old near a car wash in TX) 22 months. Fiona (followed home on a dog walk Aug 2007 and George wanted me to keep her) approx 5 yrs; Carmen age 56; Turbo (found in Dallas on a car engine thrown out of a car at 8 wks old) is 9 months; Sassy at 15.

My friend, Carmen, loves animals as much as I do and is a big supporter of rescue groups. She has a huge heart. If only more people could be like her, friendly to animals and people. Here she is with all of her furry friends. Thanks Carmen for loving life, people, and animals.

Dad turns 70

2010-06-18T13:07:00.004-04:00

Triple Falls, Dupont State Park

My dad and Karen; May 2007

I never thought I'd have a parent that was 70 years old. I still feel like my dad should be in his 50's. Aging is just a weird concept. My brother Greg tried hard to get us all together to celebrate this milestone. Unfortunately, our independently minded selves are too wrapped up in our own lives and we couldn't make it happen. Happy Birthday anyway, Dad :) Hey, at least we all remembered to call my dad . Happy Birthday, too, to Dave (my dad's friend) and congrats on turning 70.... Dave and my dad were born at the same hospital, just two days apart and have been life long friends. Very cool!! (This post is a day late. My dad turned 70 yesterday, the 17th).

Summer Swimming

2010-06-16T12:05:00.004-04:00

Sam having a post-swim snack (watermelon)

Sam and Sally

Sam swimming with Bailey and Maggie (our canine friend).

Samantha loves water so we have been going to different pools. This past weekend we were at my friend, Sally's, pool.

Our neighbors

2010-06-09T14:29:00.006-04:00

Christine

Joseph, Sam, and Grandma S. (the neighbor's grandma)

Jamie crushing a boy in ping pong!

Christine using her graduation gift

Christine, Patti, Sam

Here are a few pictures of our awesome neighbors. They continue to be the BEST neighbors in the world. Christine just graduated from high school and is on her way to University of South Carolina. We were invited to celebrate Christine's achievement with the family. The celebration consisted of eating fried catfish (caught from the family's pond/property up north), slaw, and other southern dishes. Thirteen years ago I would never have touched any part of the meal, but after thirteen years of living in the south I've come to appreciate and enjoy some southern cuisine.

Mississippi trip June 2010

2010-06-09T14:20:00.003-04:00

Niece, Cameron

Nephew, Drew (before his hair cut), Cameron, Drew,

Kathy, Sam, Ash

Kathy's new wheels!!!

Here are some pictures of our Mississippi trip. Joseph's mom was in a car accident (she's alright). The accident was not her fault. Some goober pulled out in front of her and she did not have time to stop. Her truck was totaled so she had to get a new car. She's always loved the look of a PT Cruiser, so that is what she got. It's sooooo perfect for her.

The pack on a summer day

2010-06-09T14:14:00.003-04:00

One day last week I exhausted the dogs by hitting tennis balls for them to retrieve. It was quite hot and after several minutes they all wanted to sit in the shade. I joined them for some relaxation. The dogs sat around my chair on their own. I did not strategically place them. Knowing that makes this picture even better, in my mind. (Note: The Nuttall Oak tree in the background, on the left. Joseph planted that a few weeks ago. Hopefully it survives.)

Happy Birthday Greg

2010-06-04T10:48:00.003-04:00

Today is June 4th and today is my oldest brother's birthday. I've stopped trying to keep up with how old all my friends and family members are. It's too depressing b/c it just means I'm getting older. So, Greg, I hope you have a wonderful birthday today.... The above picture is of Greg and my mom at Disney World. I love it.

Samantha hanging out

2010-05-31T14:06:00.002-04:00

A friend's birthday party

2010-05-31T13:57:00.003-04:00

Samantha eyeing a ball, along with another child

Gabby, the birthday girl

Sam's friend, Kayla, giving me "the look".

Samantha and I went to one of Sam's friend's 1st birthday parties this weekend. Sam was in heaven watching the older children. Gabby's (the child) parents did a great job putting the party together.

Broken Dish and missing Squash and zuccini

2010-05-29T21:14:00.003-04:00

Bailey with our neighbor, Christine

Bailey enjoying the sunshine with Christine

I left the kitchen tonight for less than 2 minutes. Upon my return I found a broken bowl on the floor, which previously contained sauteed squash and zuccini. Bailey, the "counter-surfer" jumped up onto the counter while i was gone and ate the vegetables, breaking the bowl in the process. Joseph was mad about the dish and I was mad about the food. I had sauteed the veggies in hopes of adding them to a homemade pizza. My dinner consisted of a bowl of cereal instead. Bailey is such a great dog but she needs to stop counter surfing.

New Camera, New Pics

2010-05-25T10:30:00.004-04:00

Jedi and Gracie

Sam reading a book

Sam playing

Joseph purchased a new camera several weeks ago and has taken over a thousand new pictures. I still love my point and shoot, but the Nikon that Joseph bought really does take great photos. Joseph's photo shooting skills have also improved and the pictures just get better and better. Here are a few.

10-months old

2010-05-17T12:23:00.003-04:00

Ella hiking

Ella fetching a ball in our yard

Samantha turned 10-months old today. She is doing great. We were going to take her camping two weekends ago, but the weather was too cold (low was 49) and then Ella (our dog) got sick. Ella broke a tooth, had diarrhea, and had an ear infection. Ella had to have a root canal on her bottom canine because her root was exposed. We chose to try to preserve what was left of the tooth rather than extract it. Hopefully the root canal is successful. Other than the ear infection Ella seems to be back to normal. For awhile she wouldn't drink water because of her tooth pain. We were told (by the vet) her teeth are weak and she is a ticking time bomb for future broken teeth. No ice cubes or nylon bones for her.

Ray Supply Honors

2010-05-05T13:19:00.002-04:00

If you don't know, my family has a consumer electronic business in NY state. Part of the business is the installation of electronic products in home and on on a commercial level, as well. This year CE Pro magazine ranked Ray Supply (the family business) # 56 out of the top 100 costom installers in the country. Check out www.raysupply.com for all your home or commercial entertainment needs and read the article about the top 100 installers in CE Pro Magazine, the industry's top publication. Greg's face even made the magazine. Go to Page 52 for the article. http://cepro-pwf.texterity.com/cepro/201005?sub_id=jOJlOqJoz7MB#pg2

Go Greg!

2nd Anniversary

2010-05-02T12:29:00.002-04:00

Today Joseph and I are celebrating our 2nd wedding anniversary. We are both excited to have made it through two years of marriage and to have brought a new McGowin into this world. Samantha is excited about our anniversary, too.

Boston Marathon Pictures

2010-04-21T18:51:00.005-04:00

Samantha using her cheering voice pre-race.

Sam tired from cheering!

Our hosts and friends, Jill and Greg (AKA "G2")

Sam getting ready to board the plane for Boston

Joseph finished the marathon in good spirits and in good health. He didn't need an IV, didn't have bloody feet, and could walk from the finish to the closest train station... What a great accomplishment.

Planes, Trains, & Automobiles/Boston Marathon

2010-04-20T20:44:00.003-04:00

Pre-race (me, Sam, Joseph getting ready)

Post-race; Joseph looking good.

Daddy and Samantha

Sam and I completed our weeklong journey up the East Coast with a visit to Boston for the 114th Boston Marathon. We cheered on Joseph, who ran the race, and hung out with my brother, sister-in-law, and our friends, Greg and Jill. We also met up with our friend, Dick, and his significant other, Cheryl. They both ran "Boston" in the past and shared in Joseph's accomplishment, finishing the Boston Marathon.

As usual, Sam was a total trooper on the plane, on the trains, and in the car. The train (the "T") was packed with people trying to get to Fenway for the 11:05 AM start for the Red Sox and trying to get to the Finish of the marathon. Greg, Jill, Sam, and I tried to get to Heartbreak Hill to cheer on Joseph but the 2 nearest T Stations were full and we couldn't park our car. We ended up driving to a parking garage in Fanueil Hall and then taking the T to the finish, which was packed. We managed to find a spot to stand and cheer on the runners. It was lots of fun. We did not see Joseph finish, unfortunately. I set up my phone to receive text messages, indicating when he passed certain points along the course, but the messages never came through. So, for a 3rd marathon in a row, I did not get any pictures of Joseph on the course. We did meet up with him after the race for a post-race pic! Congrats to Joseph for running a great race! Thanks, Jill and Greg, for shlepping us around all weekend!

Baltimore Friend

2010-04-15T22:31:00.004-04:00

Baby Brooke

Sam I am.

Terry with baby Brooke

Jen and baby Brooke

Here are some pictures of Jen and her baby, Brooke. Jen and I lived together for 2 years while we were in graduate school. Brooke is sooooooo cute. Her skin is perfect and she has the pinkest lips.

Washington DC & Baltimore Trip

2010-04-15T22:17:00.005-04:00

Sam in a toy stroller

Courtney, Sam, and me

Sam and Maple (10-yr-old yellow lab)

The adorable Menon family.

Heather with Sairam (husband) and Kiran (baby)

Heather and Kiran

Samantha and I just returned from a trip to the DC area and Baltimore, MD. We visited my friends, Heather, Courtney, and Jen. We also saw my friend's son's (who is like a little brother to me) senior recital at Peabody Conservatory, in Baltimore. We got to see Nathan sing and then went out to dinner with Nathan's family. Samantha and I had to get on 5 different trains to get from Alexandria, VA to Towson, MD. We road the Metro, the MARC commuter train, and the lightrail. Samantha was such a trouper. She did great on the plane up north and did pretty well coming back. Our BWI to Philli leg was rough. I'm sure we annoyed some passengers on the plane. Oh well.

My friends, Heather and Jen had babies within the last 5 months. It was great to see the new moms and their babies. Samantha LOVED seeing the other babies.

Collin Family visit

2010-04-08T21:46:00.003-04:00

Sam outside the Biltmore

Uncle Chip (my mom's brother) and Sam

Aunt Debbie, Uncle Chip (an older version of my brother, Greg-in appearance & mannerisms), and Sam. their first grandchild (a grand daughter) will be born in August!

My aunt and uncle, Deb and Chip, drove their camper 16 hours south to visit Joseph, Samantha, and me. They stayed for a day and then returned north, to NY. We spent some time up in Asheville together at the Biltmore Estate and then met Joseph for dinner. We had a blast hanging out with then. My uncle is so much like Larry David (of Curb Your Enthusiasm). He is hilarious. Deb is funny, too.... They plan to take their camper across country this summer so this trip was a test run for them. It took six hours for them to attach the camper to the back of their truck and then took several more to pack all their crap for their week long trip to the southeast. We tried to get them to sleep in our house the night they stayed here, but they insisted on sleeping in their camper, in our driveway. It sort of made me want to pitch a tent next to them in my yard.

The Dogs and Sam

2010-04-04T21:00:00.004-04:00

Bailey wanting a back rub.

Bailey rolled over for a belly rub since she didn't get her back rubbed.

Sam, the dogs, and I hung out in our backyard on Friday. Bailey came up to Sam and subtly asked for a back rub and then a belly rub. It was so cute.

Moms find out everything

2010-03-25T16:59:00.005-04:00

As most of you know, my mom died thirteen years ago. After she died I learned a lot about my mom's personality and learned she was A LOT smarter than I ever thought. I found out that my mom knew I took her station wagon out for a tour of the town before I ever had my license. My mom and dad (they were still married) left the house to play Platform Tennis at "the club". "The Club" was literally 5 minutes away from where we lived. Soon after they left my friend and I took my mom's blue station wagon (the kind with the 3rd backseat that faced backward and the wood panel along both sides of the car) out for a drive. Apparently, she forgot something at the house so she left "the club" and drove home. I had already left the house and when she got home her car was gone. For years I thought I got away with taking her car out without her knowing. I could not believe my mom knew what I did and never said anything to me. I guess she felt like she had to pick and choose her battles with me, since there were lots.

This story comes to mind because my neighbor just told me that one of her screens was missing from the window. This window leads to a bedroom and is a fabulous place to sneak out of the house. After she noticed the screen was gone she went into the bedroom and found the blinds pulled up and the window unlocked. Her daughters also switched bedrooms and the older one was in the bedroom with the unlocked window. All evidence concludes that this child sneaked out of the house. When confronted by her mother the daughter came up with some lame excuses and "played dumb" about the screen missing. I laughed while listening to the entire story and reminded myself that MOMS KNOW EVERYTHING. I can't wait when I surprise Samantha one day with information she thought I'd never find out. Why is it, when we are teenagers we think our parents don't have the brain power to catch us doing things we shouldn't?

Tennis League

2010-03-25T16:51:00.003-04:00

My spring tennis league started a few weeks ago. I had mixed feelings about whether I should play in the league because until one week ago I'd only played three times in the last year. I'm happy to report that I am now 2-0. Yes, that's two victories and no losses. As many of you know I'm a complete "nut job" on the court. I put WAY too much pressure on myself to win. It's so silly. I have to say, having Samantha has enabled me to relax on the court a little bit. Either I need to have more babies or just never practice if I want to win more. I wonder which solution is best.

Attention Dog Lovers

2010-03-25T16:48:00.002-04:00

The information below came to me via another volunteer with Chesapeake Bay Retriever Relief and Rescue. Please read it so you can ensure you dog's safety if she/he likes stuffed animals.

Last night at agility class, a vet, who is a fellow agility student was telling us about a case she had this week. The dog ate a child's teddy bear and was very sick. When she opened the dog up to remove what she thought was an intestinal obstruction she found a huge gelatin type mess inside and the dogs intestines were black and the tissue dead. The dog will die no surgery can fix him up there was no living intestine left from stomach to colon.

This was not an obstruction. .... so she called the manufacturer of the Teddy Bear on a quest to find out what the gel was and what killed the dog. Turns out the stuffing in children's toys contains ingredients for flame retardants and mite control! It is designed to be come a gel. It is highly toxic. Now you would think a child's toy would be safe because it is for children, but they don't expect a child to eat the stuffing of the toys... huummmm that seems a bit scary too. But we all know dogs demolish stuffed toys.

So do not give or buy your dog any children's stuffed animals... some people get them at goodwill etc. The vet will be posting a warning and story and I will send any other facts as needed and as I learn more. Maybe some children's toys do not have this ingredient, but better to be safe then sorry. So meanwhile, make sure all your dog toys are for dogs. Please pass this on... it is a horrible death she described and one that can be avoided.

Charlotte, NC trip

2010-03-22T21:35:00.004-04:00

This is Samantha at the very end of our visit in Charlotte. She was exhausted from all of the socializing. This picture makes Joseph and I laugh.

Lynn and her boys

Sam and her little friend

Samantha and I drove to Charlotte to say goodbye to our friend, Jennifer, who is moving to England in a few weeks. We hope Jennifer and her family enjoy lots of adventures in England and all of Europe. We will be looking forward to seeing them again in August, and will be excited to hear about their new home, school, and culture.

We enjoyed our visit with Lynn, Matt, their kids, and their dog, Fozzy. Samantha got to take her first trip down the slide (with mom) and I got to see what it is like having two children age 3 and under. Wow, is that a lot of work!!! Not sure I'm ready to go down that path quite yet.

Sam turns 8-months

2010-03-17T20:28:00.003-04:00

Sam's boyfriend, Levi (he's 9-months)

Sam at 8-months

Sam and Audrey

8-months-old

Sam turned 8-months-old today! She spent the day babbling and crying. Quite often she is pensive, but today, she was very vocal. She has her 2nd cold, which she got from me. Joseph also has a cold. The dogs, thankfully, have been feeling well and we have gone a nice stretch of time without any vet bills.

This week has been a social week for Sam and me. On Tuesday we received a visit from our friend, Audrey, who drove down from Charlotte, and then went to "play group" that afternoon. This morning we had a "play date" with Sam's boyfriend, Levi. And tomorrow, Sam is going to come to my tennis practice (and hopefully sit quietly in her stroller while I play). Friday we are going to visit our long lost friend, Kari, who literally lives 5 minutes from us, but whom Sam has never met, due to conflicting schedules.

A Chessie pup

2010-03-09T18:42:00.002-05:00

Sam and I transported a chesapeake bay retriever puppy to its "forever home" yesterday. We had fun playing with the pup until she left with her owners. If only I had more hands, more time, and more space. This pup was a keeper and it was bitter sweet to see her go. She is a beautiful chessie.

Charleston Visit

2010-03-09T15:50:00.003-05:00

Sam with the chessie pup

Rebecca shooting free throws

Sam watching the twins play basketball with their father.

Samantha and I drove to Charleston this weekend to visit friends and to transport a chesapeake bay retriever. We had a great time hanging out with our little and big friends. Rebecca and Kelsey (identical twin 11-yr-olds) are so much fun to hang out with. Sam, of course, was on her best behavior and the girls loved her. The drive home wasn't so much fun. Samantha puked up her breakfast and dinner from the night before about 20 minutes into our drive home. Yuck. At least it didn't get on me.

In Memory of "Daddy", Cesar's pitbull

2010-02-23T13:51:00.002-05:00

Cesar Milan's right-hand "man" died of cancer. I am so sad. Joseph and I loved that dog. Why can't dogs live for ever and ever? Cesar has a memorial fund set up for medical emergencies for dogs that have been abused. If you would like to donate to the fund or just leave a comment for Cesar and his family (staff, too) go to the link:

http://www.cesarsway.com/news/daddy-memoriam

Sam's new best friend

2010-02-19T18:39:00.002-05:00

Some friends of mine bought me a "flying pig" in Sweden several months ago. It's something you would see at the store, Spencer. It hangs from the ceiling and flies around in a circle. I have not screwed the pig into the ceiling, but have hung it in front of Sam's face for her enjoyment. Here is a short video clip. The pig reminds me of a flying cockroach, but it has provided Sam with lots of enjoyment, so I've become a fan of him.

Sony Handycam vs. Sony Bloggie

2010-02-19T18:12:00.003-05:00

I am debating whether I should get a HD handheld camcorder with 25X zoom from Sony or get the new Sony Bloggie (the one with 5X zoom). From what I have been told the Sony Bloggie is good for uploading videos to Youtube and the CX150 or CX110 camcorder is great for viewing video in HD on your TV. You can upload the video to You Tube, but you have to condense it. The resolution difference is 1080 vs. 720, apparently a big difference. We've tried to take decent video of the dogs with our camera, but the quality isn't "there". Now that we have Samantha I'm wondering if we should just take the "camcorder plunge" and go with the Handycam. Please let us know what you think we should do and why. I know people who have the Flip Camcorder (it's itty-bitty) and love it. The regular handheld camcorders are so small these days, but a High Def one is expensive. I wonder how much time we would really spend watching the video we take. The HD handycam video is easy to use with IMovie from Mac, which is what I have....

More snow pictures

2010-02-13T14:22:00.001-05:00

All four canines

Borrowing the neighbor's snowman

Ella & Bailey