Thursday, September 30, 2010

Happy Birthday Jeb!

Last week we celebrated Jeb's third birthday. Yes, for me it was all the usual feelings - unbelief that my baby is this old, happy to reach this milestone, etc. Except this year I had the feeling of hope. Hope that Jeb is just going through a stubborn stage, hope that we were getting out of the terrible twos, and hope that this wasn't the "trying threes." On September 25 I realized all hope was lost! Oh well, so what if Jeb's stubbornness keeps building, at least he's still cute right?!


In spite of it all, we had a great celebration - smaller than in years past, but Jeb and I are actively seeking a new BBF for him! But, in keeping with tradition, Jeb had requested a Lightning McQueen cake. So, he got it for the second year in a row. This time made not by me, but the local bakery. It was seriously the worst cake I've ever tasted - even Jeb wouldn't eat it - but it looked really good. So, that is all that matters.


Jeb's one request for his birthday was an orange car. Easy request, but hard to purchase when the child is always with me! Let's just say that Jeb saw all his presents being bought, yet still acted surprised when he opened them. This may be the last year of that happening.


On Saturday we had a family day and Jeb got the choose where to go. The zoo of course! Brookfield Zoo is an easy 20 minute drive for us and we had a great time. Jeb loved petting the sting rays and was fascinated by the penguins as they dove down to see us. I can still hear the laughter - priceless.

So, here is to the next year and whatever it may bring. My wish as he blew out the candle was for good health, less dirty looks, and no more nappies!!!!! (I don't see the last two happening anytime soon). Happy Birthday Baby!

Monday, September 13, 2010

Mayberry RFD

Some days I really do believe that we moved to Mayberry. The friendliness of Elmhurst is unbelievable! People have been so welcoming - our calendar is getting full already! But, this past Saturday really made me believe that Elmhurst is the nicest place on earth!

After numerous people telling us that we needed to take the kids to Riley's pub for a Saturday lunch and to watch the game, we did. Only I didn't really think it through. Michigan was playing Notre Dame. Elmhurst is a HUGE Irish Catholic community and Rileys sign has a shamrock. We walked in with our Michigan stuff on like lambs being led to the slaughter!

After a few harassing, but friendly remarks and a completely embarrassing 100 yard touchdown by ND, we began to bury our heads. But, alas, Michigan came back and we whooped it up, much to the rest of the bars dismay. The game ended and at least 3/4 of the bar came over and said "great game!" Had we been anywhere else I think our tires would have been punctured. Welcome to Mayberry!