Thursday, July 31, 2008

Watch out, she is TWO.



















Chloe had her birthday on Sunday, but we have felt it coming for a few months now. I have never had a child with so much terror to unload on the world. Don't get me wrong, she is loads of fun-- got the teasing ability of her dad-- but the girl knows all about getting into trouble. We call her our own little Kennadie--ask Megan about that one.

Bringing Zac home!!!
















It took me a while to upload the pictures, but here is my little family getting Zac dressed and ready to bring home. It sounds cheesy, but I love this crew. Dad, the calm one getting things done. Preston, the constant help. Anna, the bit of drama. Chloe, the crazy informant. And now Zac, the little one.

Thursday, July 17, 2008

Happy Birthday

It's Chris again. I am glad Melissa hasn't changed her password yet. Until she changes it, I may break in once in a while.

I just wanted to wish her a happy birthday today. She is now in her upper twenties and I have been privileged to share the last 8+ years with her. She is one amazing lady (I can say lady now that she is almost 30).

There are so many things I love about her. Here are just a few:

1. She has the most beautiful eyes. I believe you can see them in the picture at the top of the blog. They are the most beautiful blue you have ever seen.
2. She supports me and continually gives to me without much thought for herself. She is one of the most selfless people I know.
3. She gives the same support to the kids. I know that sometimes they get on her nerves, but at the end of the day she gives each one of them a kiss and she means it.
4. She could just stare at Zac for hours. I have only witnessed this complete love a few times in my life. She would do anything for him. (that goes for the rest of us as well.)
5. She has a passion for shopping but she will never bankrupt us with it. (Even if she does spontaneously buy time shares).
6. She is always thinking of others. There are many around that would count her as a true friend. That is rare.
7. She is brilliant. I frequently think, "Man, I bet Melissa could do this a lot better than I could."
8. She is patient. She doesn't think so, but I have seen what she puts up with. Between me and the kids, she has her hands full.
9. She gave up her dreams for me.

This is by no means a comprehensive list. I could sit here all day and write about her.

Melissa, I love you. I am so blessed to be a part of your life. Thank you for everything you do. I hope you have a great birthday.

Love,

Chris

Tuesday, July 15, 2008

Not so smart...

My husband has a masters degree, his CPA, and speaks Chinese, but I am beginning to question his intelligence.

Yesterday, he decided he is into cycling enough that he needed to shave his legs. No discussion with his wife who has obvious experience. Now he has some funny looking chicken legs and a serious case of razor burn. And I have two very dull razors.

Why would any man ever think that shaving his legs is cool?

Why would he not ask for some advise on such an adventure? Probably because he knows my opinion--not Cool! Not even a little.

Maybe my posting will stop him from repeating the venture. Or maybe I need to post a picture...I will see what I can do.

Saturday, July 5, 2008

It's a Boy!









































Yesterday morning Melissa woke up with some stronger-than-usual contractions. We had the bags packed, the car was ready to go and Melissa's parents were put on call. I was sure that we were going to have a 4th of July baby.

We went to the parade in Centerville with Preston, Anna, and Chloe. Melissa was having contractions all during the parade. We then went home and took a nap and had some down time. After the nap we had dinner with Melissa's parents. The contractions continued all day long and they were strong enough to stop Melissa in her tracks when they happened. After dinner we went home, got the kids to bed, and tried to relax a little. Then the contractions really started. Melissa's parents came over and we left our house at 9:30. Melissa was checked into her room at 10:00 and Zackary Brent was born at about 11:30. It happened so fast that she barely got the epidural in before he came.

Zac was 7 pounds, 6 ounces, and 21 inches long. I included some pictures that were taken on my camera phone. Like a bonehead, I left the cameras at home. We should have some better pictures later today. (By the way, this is Chris. I hijacked the blog while Melissa feeds Zac.)