The Polidors

18 months

2011-11-02T20:51:00.001-07:00

Charlotte, you are 18 months old!

You weigh 22 pounds.
You wear size 3 diapers.
You wear 12-18 month old clothes still, but you are getting taller!
You wear size 4 or 5 in shoes.
You have about 50 words and are beginning to combine words. Your favorite things to say are "what's that" and "no mama"!
You are walking, running, and jumping!
You have 20 teeth.
You and I volunteer with meals on wheels every week. You love seeing your friends, knocking on the doors, and pushing the elevator buttons.
You like going to story time at the library every week.
You were a ladybug for Halloween this year. You enjoyed trunk-or-treat, but you were sick for halloween night.
Your favorite toy is your blue baby doll and you don't go anywhere without her. You also like your baby stroller, and your pretend house.
You are the funniest little girl. We love watching you discover new things! You are a constant joy in our lives.

12 months!!!

2011-05-28T19:49:00.001-07:00

Charlotte, you are 12 months old!!! (On April 23, 2011 at 12:13 am. Sorry for the delayed blog post, but you are a busy little girl!)

You weigh 20 pounds and 6 oz.
You wear size 3 diapers.
You are wearing size 12-18 month clothes.
You wear size 3 shoes.
You have 4 words: mama, dada, go, hi
You are cruising all over the place, but not walking yet.
You have 8 teeth.
You are no longer on the bottle (it was a little sad for both of us)
You are the friendliest baby - you wave and say "hi" to almost everybody we see.

To Charlotte: I had no idea what I was getting into with this parenting thing! This has been the best year of my life. I love watching you grow and learn every day. I love you all the way to the moon and back!

To Colin: We made it! 1 whole year. There's no one else I'd rather be on this adventure with than you!

11 months

2011-04-06T18:12:00.001-07:00

Charlotte, you are 11 months old (on 3/23/11)!!

We think you weigh over 20 pounds.
You wear size 3 diapers.
You have moved onto 12-18 month clothes.
You wear size 3 shoes.
You now say da-da, go, and hi.
You are pulling to stand and cruising.
You have 8 teeth, working on number 9.
You eat all table food, and take about half of your milk from a cup.
You are so much fun to play with all day!

Baby Dedication

2011-02-24T18:43:00.001-08:00

We had the Baby Dedication Celebration at our church this past week. Charlotte was so blessed to have her Mimi and Papa, Uncle Parker and Aunt Allison, and Jackson and Leslie there to celebrate with her!

10 months!

2011-02-24T18:34:00.000-08:00

Charlotte, you are 10 months old! (2/23/2011)

You weigh 19 pounds.
You wear size 3 diapers.
You are wearing 6-12 month clothes, 12 month pajamas.
You have sick for several weeks with an ear infection, bronchiolitis, and roseola :(
You talk all day long and are making lots of new sounds, but still no mama.
You pulled to stand for the first time on your 10 month birthday!
You have 7 teeth and are working on number 8.
We love you so much!!

9 months!

2011-01-30T19:28:00.000-08:00

Charlotte, you are 9 months old! (1/23/11)

You weighed 18 3/4 pounds at your 9 month check-up (50th percentile).
You are now taking 3 six ounce bottles per day plus lots of table food and some baby food. You love blueberry yogurt, cereal bars, waffles. Much to my dismay you do not yet love avocado!
You still wear size 3 diapers.
You wear 6-12 month clothes and 9 month pjs, but these are getting a little snug!
You continue to talk all about da-da, but still no mama yet.
You started crawling on January 21st (2 days shy of 9 months). You sat alone for the first time on January 22nd.
You are trying very hard to pull to stand.
Your top two teeth have finally come in! It looks like yet again you look like your daddy!
You are the most precious little girl! We love you!

8 months!

2011-01-15T19:35:00.000-08:00

Charlotte, you are eight months old (12/23/10). Sorry, again, kiddo for being late!

You weigh around 18-20 pounds, I think!
Your last length measurement was 26 inches. Can't wait to see your new length.
You now take 4 six ounce bottles per day, plus baby food, and more table food. You really like yogurt, puffs, and cereal bars.
You wear size 3 diapers.
You wear 6-12 month clothes.
You are continuing to babble all day long. Da-da is still your favorite thing to say, but we have also heard "na-na" and "la-la". Still waiting on you to say mama.
You are really liking daycare and your friends there, but you still won't nap there.
You are SO close to crawling! Any day now!
Your favorite toys are your picnic basket, blocks from Aunt Amberly and Uncle David, and Sophie, of course.
You now take baths in the big bathtub. You are starting to really like it.
Your top two teeth are THIS close to coming in!
You loved your first Christmas and you were a trooper with all of the traveling. You even went sledding in Vermont this year.
We love the sweet little girl you are becoming!

7 months!

2010-12-11T20:12:00.001-08:00

Charlotte, you are seven months old (11/23/10). sorry, kiddo, this post is incredibly late!

You weigh around 18 pounds.
You were 26 inches long at your 6 month check-up but I think you are a little longer now.
You still eat 6 oz bottles 5 times a day, plus baby food, and table food. You had your first taste of gingerbread this week!
You wear size 3 diapers.
You are wearing 6-12 month clothes.
You are finding your voice and will babble all day long. Mostly "da-da".
You now go to mother's day out at Woodmont Hills on Mondays and Wednesdays. You do not like to take a nap there!
You are getting ready for your first Christmas and have already seen Santa twice.
Your favorite toys are your Little People Nativity Set, Sophie, and your stuffed Rudolph.
You are the sweetest little girl and we love you so much!

The Most Wonderful Time of Year!!!

2010-11-25T19:11:00.001-08:00

Christmas - bring it! I'm so excited about the holidays this year with our little Charlotte. I've been thinking about Christmas cards, because we just had our pictures made by the incomparable Katie Mosley!

So, Shutterfly is doing this awesome promotion this year. You can get 50 free Christmas cards if you create a Shutterfly post on your blog ( http://bit.ly/sfly2010) !

We have ordered tons of prints from shutterfly, and we just got our first photo book of Charlotte. They are super easy to make and everyone has loved it. I also like to send personalized birthday cards to our family from Shutterfly. What grandparent doesn't love getting a birthday card, father's day card, etc with sweet Charlotte on the front.

Click on these links to view their Christmas cards:

http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery/christmas-photo-cards

http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery/holiday-cards

They also have some great birth announcements. Check these out:

http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery/birth-announcements

I'm loving this one:

Or maybe this one:

Be looking for the Polidor Christmas Card coming soon!!!

Happy Halloween!

2010-10-31T19:28:00.001-07:00

Charlotte was a spider for her first halloween, from Charlotte's Web!

This is an attempt to get a photo of Charlotte and the pumpkin. Notice my hand to the right, just in case we took a tumble!

This is Charlotte at "trunk or treat"! It was quite warm and her face is saying it all!

Charlotte and Mommy at Trunk or Treat

This was Charlotte before church this morning!

6 months!

2010-10-31T19:20:00.001-07:00

Charlotte, you are 6 months old (10/23/10)!

This post is a little late - we've been sick!!

You weigh 16.8 pounds
You are 26 inches long.
You still eat 6 oz every feeding (5X a day).
You are now eating fruits, vegetables, and oatmeal!
You wear size 3 diapers.
You are wearing 6-12 month clothes.
You were a spider for your first halloween, but you didn't like wearing your costume very much.
You went to the zoo for the first time this month.
You start a new daycare tomorrow (Nashville Christian).
Your favorite toys are Sophie the giraffe, your shape sorter blocks, and your ring stacker.
You started bringing your hands together to bang toys this week.
I love being your mommy!

Pumpkin Patch

2010-10-11T18:52:00.001-07:00

We took Charlotte to Gentry Farm this weekend! She evidently loves pumpkins! She's also got some new skills - sitting!! My friend, Andrea, made her cute shirt! Check out her blog at www.abccustomdesigns.blogspot.com. Now if I could only find a pick your own apple orchard!

5 months old!

2010-09-26T19:20:00.000-07:00

Charlotte, you are 5 months old! (9/23/10)

You weigh 16 pounds
You eat every 3-4 hours and sleep through the night.
You eat between 6-8 ounces per feeding.
You began eating rice cereal this week, but you don't like it very much yet.
You wear size 3 diapers.
You are wearing 3-6 months clothes, but all of your fall/winter clothes are 6-12 months.
Mommy started working part-time this week. I love spending most of my days with you.
You had an ear infection this month that was no fun!
You are loving your new exersaucer.
You are the greatest joy in my life.

4 months old!

2010-08-24T18:29:00.000-07:00

Charlotte, you are a 4 months old yesterday! (8/23/10)

You weighed 14 lbs, 11 oz at your 4 month check up this week (65 %tile).
You are 25 inches long (86 %tile).
Your head circumference is 16 inces (52 %tile).
You eat every three hours during the day and sleep all night!
You eat 6 oz at every feeding.
You wear size 2 diapers.
You wear 3-6 month clothes and 6 month pajamas.
You have rolled over front to back and back to front a few times, but never when the video camera is ready.
Mommy went back to work this month and you stay with Janet, Noah, and Nate during the day. You love to watch Noah and Nate and they love you too!
You had your first cold this month and got sick after your shots this month! Yuck!
You laugh every day!
You are the happiest baby and we love you so much!!!

3 months old!

2010-07-25T13:59:00.000-07:00

Charlotte, you are three months old (7/23/2010)!

You weigh around 13 pounds.
You still eat every 3 hours during the day. You sleep from 11 pm to 7 or 8 am!
You eat 5-6 ounces per feeding.
You wear size 2 diapers.
You are still wearing 3-6 months clothes.
You still love your play gym.
You smile and coo all day!
You wake up smiling every morning.
You are almost rolling over.
You did great on your first plane ride this month.
You went swimming and to the lake for the first time this month.
We love you more and more every day!

Happy 4th of July

2010-07-04T20:20:00.000-07:00

from our family to yours!!!

2 month check up

2010-07-01T20:21:00.000-07:00

Charlotte had her 2 month check up this week! Our girl weighed in at 12 pounds, 3 ounces and 23 inches long! She also had her first round of shots and my, was it painful (for me!). Thankfully, Colin held her and I basically just melted down during the entire thing! She had a rough 2 days but now seems to be back to her happy self! Here's a picture of Miss C in her "tough chick" t-shirt!

Water Baby!

2010-06-26T19:25:00.000-07:00

Charlotte is ready for some swimming. Mimi got her a fabulous new swimsuit. Now she's ready for a visit to VT and to swim in Grammy and Grampy's pool!!!

2 months old

2010-06-23T17:04:00.000-07:00

Charlotte, you are two months old today (6/23/2010)!

You weigh 11 pounds!
You still eat every 3 hours during the day. You sleep from 11 pm to 5 am most nights. You have slept through the night once!
You eat 4-5 ounces every meal.
You wear size 1 diapers.
You are now wearing size 3-6 months clothes.
Your new favorite toy is your play gym. It has been a lifesaver for mommy.
You still like to be held.
You have to get your first shots in 5 days. :(
You are smiling all the time now.
You have started cooing! A lot.
I love spending every day with you!

Happy First Father's Day

2010-06-20T08:45:00.001-07:00

Colin, Thanks for being such an awesome dad. I couldn't do it without you!

1 month old

2010-05-23T09:57:00.000-07:00

Charlotte, you are one month old today (5/23/2010)!

You weigh just over 9 pounds and are 21 1/2 inches long.
You eat every 3 hours, except at night, when you have one 4 hour stretch!
You eat 3-4 ounces every meal.
You wear size 1 diapers.
You wear 0-3 months clothes, but some are getting a little snug!
You hate to have a wet/dirty diaper and will cry the minute you have one!
You love your swing and bouncy seat.
You love to be held (sometimes all day).
You are sleeping better and taking naps during the day!
You love your daddy and are excited to see him when he comes home!
You are undecided if you like taking a bath - sometimes you cry and sometimes not.
You like taking walks in your stroller but you usually fall asleep.
You are a constant joy in our lives!

2 Week Check-Up

2010-05-16T17:24:00.000-07:00

Charlotte went for her 2 week check-up this week. She weighed 8 lbs, 10 oz (50th percentile) and was 21 1/2 inches long (95th percentile). Our big girl was also 95th percentile for head circumference!

Colin's Bottle Warming Technique

2010-05-03T18:21:00.000-07:00

First, you get a large Pendelton mug (thanks Grampy) and fill with hot water.

Next, you add container of milk to

cup and hot water.

Finally, you place your Klean Kanteen or large bottle of body wash (depending on what room in the house you are in) to keep said milk submerged in hot water!

I had no idea...

2010-05-02T18:15:00.000-07:00

... that I could love someone so much

... how little sleep I really need to function

... how much more I could love my husband

... how much laundry a baby produces

... how many times I could check on a sleeping baby

... about pumping breast milk, until now

... that when they tell you that you cannot get out of bed

after the epidural that they are serious

... how long 26 hours in labor is

... how great a shower is

... that 8 1/2 pounds and 10 days could completely change me!

First Doctor's Appointment

2010-04-28T15:15:00.000-07:00

Charlotte got to meet her pediatrician today for the first time. It was also our first trip out of the house with her. It was definitely difficult getting out of the house with a newborn. Here are Charlotte's stats:

Weight: 7 lbs, 12 oz. Her birth weight was 8'5" and she went home at 7'8".

Length: 21 inches - the first measurement was actually 20 inches, which would mean that she shrunk since birth, so we measured again!

Charlotte has mastered breastfeeding as well. She's eating every 2 hours or so, though she would love to eat every hour!

Charlotte Elise Polidor

2010-04-25T06:51:00.000-07:00

is here!!! Born on Friday, April 23rd at 12:13 am. She weighed 8 pounds, 5 oz and is 21 inches long. She looks like her daddy!!! Here are some pics!

I'm Back...with BIG News!

2010-04-02T14:39:00.000-07:00

So, I'm going to try this blogging thing one more time. I'm pretty sure my one reader already knows but we have big news. We are expecting a baby girl, whom we plan to name Charlotte, in 2 weeks!! We are super excited! I'm going to try to keep up with regular posts for the grandparents!

CSA Week 3

2009-05-22T20:46:00.001-07:00

This week we are enjoying more strawberry muffins, roasted cauliflower popcorn, and more salad. We also got honey this week, so I plan on making more granola as well. Oh and did you notice my culinary Bible in this picture. "How to Cook Everything" was a wedding gift from Amberly and David and has seriously been a lifesaver for me. I now also own "How to Cook Everything Vegetarian"!

CSA Week 2

2009-05-22T20:42:00.001-07:00

This week we enjoyed more salad, roasted kohlrabi (see pic below) and radishes, and strawberry shortcake.

Catching Up

2009-05-21T08:07:00.000-07:00

I know, it's been a while (Cara), but I've got lots to share.

The first week of May marked my one year anniversary of being a vegetarian. To celebrate, I re-read The Om nivore's Dilemma by Michael Po llan. This was the book that convinced me to take the plunge and go veggie. I don't talk about this much, but it has significantly improved my life (in GI terms). I have struggled with GI problems since early high school, but I must say I have felt better this year than at any other time in my life.

When I took the plunge, I resigned myself to thinking I would just have a limited repoirtoire of foods I would eat. But, being a vegetarian for me has made me a more conscientious eater and a more adventurous eater. I'll try anything (see radishes below) now. And since you have to be concerned with getting all that your body needs, I have become much more aware of what I eat and what I need.

Ok, that's enough. On to more exciting news...

Colin and I joined a CSA this summer. We are a part of the Avalon Acres CSA. We split 1/2 bushel of produce every week with the Wares. I love it! Seriously. We discussed it and decided that we would try everything in the box at least once. It's only been 3 weeks but here are some lessons I have learned

I don't like radishes. No two ways about it. I've tried, but I don't like them. The End.

Roasting vegetables is the way to go. I've roasted radishes, kohlrabi, cauliflower. Yum.

I like green onions, but am running out of ways to cook them.

I get really excited about produce. I know, I'm weird, but I feel like I'm getting a present every week.
There are many ways to enjoy a salad. Yum. Even with radishes.

Below are pictures of our produce from the first 3 weeks. (Side note: I had to do seperate posts for the pics b/c blogger was being difficult.)

Also, Allison suggested a website to me: 101cookbooks.com. It is changing my life as we speak. Seriously. The author is a veggie and cooks all natural. I'm sure you carnivores out there can figure out how to incorporate meat. I made this recipe for cauliflower last night and it was delish! Thanks, Allison!

CSA Week 1 - The Amish farmers

made the cinnamon rolls, not me! This week we enjoyed:

Lots of salad, potato and scallion soup, strawberry muffins

Compassion in India

2009-04-27T19:16:00.000-07:00

Please, please read.

Colin and I are supporters of Compassion International. We sponsor a child, Hector, for $32 a month. He is provided with food, shelter, medical care, education, and taught the love of Christ. We exchange letters and he always asks us to continue to pray for him! He is five years old.

I was moved to begin supporting Compassion, when several bloggers went to Uganda for a week and blogged about their experience.

Compassion now has a group of bloggers in India. Right now. They are seeing some amazing things and are sharing it via their blogs.

I encourage you, beg you, to read just one. It will change you. It changed me.

Here's the link: http://www.compassionbloggers.com/india

Favorite Foto Friday

2009-03-27T07:23:00.000-07:00

Best day of my life! (So far). I love this pic, b/c the photographer did not take it. My mother-in-law took it when we obviously weren't paying attention to anyone else!

The Joys and Woes of Renting...

2009-03-25T19:13:00.000-07:00

Today was a great day in the life of the Polidors. For a while, our refrigerator has been leaking. I don't mean a small leak, I'm talking, we could not use the bottom drawers at all. And there was an imaginary line that the milk could not go past or else you would get a milk slushie. We have been hesitant to call the landlord b/c, well, we hadn't exactly told him that we have a dog. Anyway, Colin made the call this week. Well today I get home and my landlord is there dropping off this beauty...

Can we talk about how much I love this fridge. First, it's huge! Second, no leaking! But the best part is (drum roll please)...AUTOMATIC ICE MAKER!!!!!

So these are the Joys of renting...A major appliance breaks, you call someone else, and then a new appliance shows up unexpected!!! I think you guys probably know the woes of renting, like your neighbors that you share a wall with got Rock Band for Christmas. Oh, and Danza let everyone know that he lived here this afternoon!

Favorite Foto Friday

2009-03-20T05:16:00.000-07:00

This photo is of me and my two former roommates, Autumn (in the middle) and Rachel (right). I got to chat with Autumn this week and I'm so glad we got to catch up. Anyway, we lived together in Apt E-26 at the Royal Arms. Good times there for sure. I miss you girls!!

Dinner at Allyson's

2009-03-18T05:11:00.000-07:00

Allyson made a fantastic dinner for Colin, me, Parker, Kent, and Cionna this weekend. I was super appreciative of the separate meatless version. Thanks Allyson!!!

Spring Cleaning. Check.

2009-03-17T17:04:00.000-07:00

So, I'm on spring break this week (one of the perks of my new job). So yesterday my mom came over and we accomplished some serious spring cleaning. Re-organization, the works. Tomorrow I'll be attending my first sewing lesson. Seriously, am I getting old or what? Spring break used to mean something very different. And...check out my rocking new canister set!! (please refer back to old comment). It is the one that my mom used when I was a kid. Classic tupperware in celery green. I love it!!!! I'm totally gonna ransack my parent's house for other cool items from the 70s and 80s.

Favorite Foto Friday

2009-03-13T05:00:00.000-07:00

This is Parker, Colin, Jackson, and Leslie at Flugtag. I was taking the picture. It was seriously like a thousand degrees that day!! That's all I remember is how hot it was! Colin and Jackson were roommates in college and now he and Leslie are some of our very best friends. And we're related to Parker! Just kidding - we love hanging out with you too!!

Global Food Crisis Day - March 11

2009-03-11T05:00:00.000-07:00

Serious post time. As you may know, Colin and I support an organization called Compassion International. We sponsor a child named Hector every month so that he can receive education, food, and know the love of Jesus. I blogged about it here and here. Compassion is partnering with churches and bloggers around the world to raise awareness and funds for the Global Food Crisis.

For more detailed information and how you can help visit www.compassion.com/please.

So, here's my take on it...All information gleaned from above website.

Why is there a global food crisis? Friends, to be honest with you, I just don't get it. I believe that there is more than enough food, resources, medicines, etc. in this world for everyone. I just don't think we're managing the resources appropriately. Why does anyone have to be hungry? I know that poverty is a much bigger demon than I can understand, but it still breaks my heart. Food shortages and poverty are nothing new to the developing world. It has been a problem for years. But this food crisis is much worse and more urgent. "Since 2005, food prices have risen 80%". Reasons include "rising fuel costs, rising food demands from countries like India and China, natural disasters, and the growth of biofuels".

What does Compassion do to help?

--They provide food vouchers to children and families who need immediate relief.

--They provide seeds and agricultural tools so that families can grow their own food and make extra money.

--They provide supplemental nutrition at Compassion-assisted centers around the world.

Why is there poverty and why is there hunger? I don't know, but I pray that our generation will see the end of both. Because at the end of the day, no matter how bad our economy is, I know that I will not suffer hunger like those in the third world. Be blessed friends, Tiffany

Recipe Round 2

2009-03-07T15:29:00.001-08:00

Sorry to all my faithful readers (Cara) for the omission of the recipe. I promise it was on there before. Here goes again:

Grilled Vegetable Panini

Summer squash (an assortment)

Eggplant

Onion

Peppers

Olive Oil

Rosemary

Oregano

Thyme

Salt and pepper

Slice vegetables lengthwise into strips no thicker than 1/2 inch. Combine olive oil and spices and marinate vegetables, making sure all faces of the vegetables are covered. Then cook on grill until vegetables are partially blackened.

2 loaves french bread

2 balls mozzarella

3 large tomatoes

Basil leaves

Cut loaves of bread lengthwise. Arrange bread on baking sheet and layer with slices of mozzarella first, grilled vegetables next, and last tomatoes. Drizzle with olive oil and place under broiler until cheese is melted. Garnish with basil leaves. Cut in pieces to serve.

Here are my variations:

I did not grill the veggies, I stir fried them on the stove. And I cheated with the spices and just used vegetable supreme seasoning. And we used slices of provolone cheese instead of mozzarella. Yum!

Rockin' New Recipe

2009-03-07T08:00:00.000-08:00

So I found this great new recipe for grilled vegetable panini at www.animalvegetablemiracle.com. If I haven't already told you, the book, Animal, Vegetable, Miracle is an awesome book. It deals with one family's challenge to eat locally for a year. The website has all the recipes from the book, plus menu planning based on the growing season. This will be really helpful for us this summer because we joined a CSA!! We are splitting 1/2 bushel of produce with the Wares every week. I can't wait. I'm gonna try everything in the box at least once! The panini was really good. Colin went for a less vegetarian version of turkey, cheese, and tomatoes, but he also gave it two thumbs up. Here's the recipe:

Favorite Foto Friday

2009-03-06T06:39:00.000-08:00

This photo is in honor of Amberly and David returning to America this week. We are so glad you are home. Can't wait to see you this summer!

Favorite Photo Friday

2009-02-27T00:01:00.000-08:00

Danza - Day One

2009-02-22T19:17:00.000-08:00

No, I have not become a huge rap fan, though I do enjoy Kanye. But I did run 8 miles yesterday!! I aptly named my playlist on the iPod, 8 mile, which I found hilarious. Colin - not so much. Anyway, I've been wanting to write a post about running for while, so here goes. I've always wanted to be a runner. Here's why:

1) great way to stay in shape

2) you can run anywhere. all you need is a pair of shoes. no equipment, no gym...

3) it's much cooler to say "I'm a runner" than "I'm a stair mill-er, or I'm an elliptical-er"

I have attempted running several times in the last few years. One of my best friends is a marathon coach! But I have been plagued with injuries, knee, IT band, etc...So I finally got some physical therapy at the Vanderbilt Orthopedic Institute with a guy named Hung Do. Seriously changed my life. Even the ortho doc told me, you've got a crazy gait and you'll never be a runner. But Hung said, "If you want to be a runner, we'll make it happen". So after the 8 miles yesterday, I feel confident in saying "I'm a runner". The crazy part is that as I began training for the half marathon, I hated it. Seriously. Hated every minute of running, dreaded run days, etc. But something about the day I had to run 4 miles was the turning point for me. After that, I didn't hate it so much, and now I look forward to my run days. Who knew? So, if you are in Nashville on April 25, look for Colin and I during the half marathon!!

Favorite Photo Friday

2009-02-20T00:01:00.000-08:00

So, I'm starting this new "series" of posting some of my favorite photos on Fridays! We have so many great photos that have never seen the light of day!! So here's the inaugural photo. Do I even need to explain why it's a favorite???

Grooming 101

2009-02-17T19:49:00.000-08:00

Colin and I had the great idea to start grooming Danza ourselves. It is rather expensive for little D to get his hair cut, and he needs it cut often. We thought grooming would be much easier than it was. It took both of us, and Danza only weighs 14 lbs! Here's some photos of the new 'do!

Etsy Take Two

2009-02-16T16:06:00.000-08:00

So, it appears that no one can see the pictures of the scrabble tile necklaces except me!! So, here's a second try...These pics are courtesy of my mother-in-law. The one on the left is Suzanne's and the one on the right is Amberly's.

Here's the website again: www.homestudio.etsy.com

Great Etsy Find!!!

2009-02-05T16:31:00.000-08:00

So I found these really cute pendants on Etsy. Guess what they are made of ????

Scrabble tiles!!! I know, I love them. I bought one for me, my 2 sis-in-laws and my mother-in-law,

b/c the fam loves some scrabble!! The top one is Autumn's.

This one is Suzanne's

This one I got for me

This one is Amberly's

So go check out the Etsy store: www.homestudio.etsy.com

Autumn and Amberly - I mailed them all to your mom, so she can bring them to you!

How Local is Local?

2009-01-10T18:11:00.000-08:00

So, I just finished reading "Animal, Vegetable, Miracle" by Barbara Kingsolver (highly recommend). The book is basically one family's experiment of eating "local". They define local as foods grown within 100 miles of their home (Appalachia). I have read elsewhere that local is defined as within 250 miles of your home. So I'm at the Harris Teeter last weekend in the produce section when I notice these signs that said "locally grown" by some of the vegetables. I usually buy all organic produce, but I decided to investigate. I asked one of the friendly produce people which farm the local produce was from. He said "Some of it is from North Carolina and the rest is from California". What??? California does not equal local to me! So I was slightly disappointed. But on a brighter note, Colin and I decided that we are going to join a CSA this spring and embark on eating with the seasons!! I'm currently researching local CSAs, but if you have any suggestions, let me know.

Best Books of 2008

2009-01-02T22:14:00.001-08:00

I love lists! I thought I'd share my favorite books from 2008 with you.

1. The Omnivore's Dilemma - Michael Pollan- This book changed my life. Seriously. Highly recommend. You will never think about food the same way again. Followed closely by...

2. In Defense of Food - Michael Pollan - sequel to Omnivore's Dilemna

3. Animal, Vegetable, Miracle - Barbara Kingsolver - staying on the food topic - really great book about what it means to eat locally.

4. The Twilight Series (Twilight, New Moon, Eclipse, Breaking Dawn) - Stephenie Meyer - I became a serious addict. I could not put it down. I might have read them more than once in 08! I know, I know, it's about vampires, but please give it a chance and you'll be hooked.

5. The Shack - William P. Young - a must read! It really made me think about the way I view the world and my place in it.

Coming out of Hibernation

2009-01-02T21:49:00.000-08:00

So, I realize I am the world's worst blog slacker, but I'm back to blogging in 2009. 2008 was a good year for the Polidors, so here's a recap from our family:

In January, Colin and I celebrated 2 years of wedded bliss. I can't recall any major events in February. March brought my 28th birthday. In April, we traveled to Spain with Colin's mom to visit Amberly and David. I have to recommend vacationing with "locals". We had such a great experience that we would have never found in "Lonely Planet". April also brought the wedding of my dearest friend, Mari-Etta. I served as a bridesmaid for the 11th time (no kidding). In May, I officially became a vegetarian (not vegan - I still enjoy milk, eggs, and cheese). It's been really rewarding and I feel my healthiest in years. Colin's been such a trooper. He is NOT a vegetarian, however, we do not eat meat at home. He has endured some pretty crazy dinners and has become a convert to the veggie burger. We spent the summer camping, hiking, and canoeing, including a trip to Indiana with Cara and Travis. Danza came on his first and last camping trip. Never again will I sleep in a two person tent with 2 people and 1 dog. We tried in vain to have a garden. We ended up with 4 tomatoes. My dad has ruled not enough sunlight in the back yard. July also brought a good-bye from my friend and former roommate, Lisa, who moved to the Dominican Republic! I'm still missing her every day. In October, my parents and I embarked on a road trip to Vermont to visit Colin's family. Good times. I never realized how big Virginia really was, but it takes several hours to get through. November brought Colin's 29th birthday (09 will bring the big 3-0) as well as Thanksgiving with my family, and December brought Christmas in Vermont. We had 2 feet of snow this year, which led to several snow shoeing adventures. If I forgot any major events, please forgive me.

We are both really excited about all that 2009 holds. Amberly and David return to the U.S. in March. Colin and I have big plans to run the half marathon in April. I received a sewing machine for Christmas and plan to learn to sew. I've offered to begin making all of colin's clothes for him, but he has declined the offer! I also plan to become a more adventurous cook (poor colin). Thanks for checking on us and I promise to be more faithful in 09!

It's official...

2008-07-17T20:19:00.001-07:00

I've joined facebook, finally. So if you are on facebook, come on over and let's be friends~

2008-07-02T19:10:00.000-07:00

Click here to "join the revolution".

Here's the lowdown...40 bloggers are fasting for one day and blogging about a need in the world. It began a few days ago, but you can catch up pretty quickly. My perspective on this life and my role in it continues to be challenged. For example, I was thinking tonight about how I really "needed" some new summer clothes. But friends, there are so many other uses for my money. Not to say that shopping is wrong, but for me my definition of "needs" in my life is constantly being challenged and stretched. So if you have a few minutes, check out some of the blogs and the causes...Be well friends, I am thankful for you all.

Please pray...

2008-07-01T17:05:00.000-07:00

for this sweetie. Kennedy is 4 years old and is having spinal surgery tomorrow. Please lift her up in prayer on Wednesday. Check out her mom's blog to the right - Life with My Special Ks.

2008-06-29T17:54:00.000-07:00

Check this out...super funny. The funniest with sound, though. I got this from www.ragamuffinsoul.com. It's a really cool site - check it out.

Congrats Frank & Allyson!

2008-06-24T18:15:00.001-07:00

Colin's cousin Frank got married a few weeks ago! It was a beautiful wedding.

Spain Continued...The Alhambra

2008-06-03T19:05:00.000-07:00

So this was my favorite day. Seeing the Alhambra was on my list of things to do before I die (Now checked off). Friends, I can't really put the experience into words, but it was amazing. This entire place was created for beauty. I've posted some pictures, but they could never do the Alhambra justice. If you ever have the chance, this is a definite place to see. I feel so fortunate to have experienced the courtyard of the myrtles and the hall of the two sisters for myself, and even better to share the experience with my family. Of course, I bought a guidebook the previous day (after the failed attempt to get in) and studied it the night before. I know, I'm a nerd, but I like to know stuff! I found this description of the Alhambra via the guys at google...

"On a hill overlooking Granada, the Alhambra—a sprawling palace-citadel that comprised royal residential quarters, court complexes flanked by official chambers, a bath, and a mosque—was begun in the thirteenth century by Ibn al-Ahmar, founder of the Nasrid dynasty, and was continued by his successors in the fourteenth century. Its most celebrated portions—a series of courtyards surrounded by rooms—present a varied repetoire of Moorish arched, columnar, and domical forms. The romantic imagination of centuries of visitors has been captivated by the special combination of the slender columnar arcades, fountains, and light-reflecting water basins found in those courtyards—the Lion Court in particular; this combination is understood from inscriptions to be a physical realization of descriptions of Paradise in Islamic poetry."

— Marvin Trachtenberg and Isabelle Hyman. Architecture: from Prehistory to Post-Modernism. p219.

2008-05-29T19:04:00.000-07:00

Shaun Groves has got a cool post today about simplicity. Really challenging.

"Live simply that others may simply live"... Elizabeth Seaton

Check it out here.

2008-05-28T19:37:00.000-07:00

I just finished reading this book and I must vote it as the best book I've ever read. Now I really enjoy reading about food, learning about food, and in general thinking about food. Not eating, but food. Where it comes from, is it all equal, can it really nourish and heal our bodies (I believe it can). So if you also enjoy these things, this book is for you. Or if you are interested in where your food comes from and is made up of, then this is a must. I am currently reading the sequel, and it is quickly becoming the second best book I've ever read...

More of Spain

2008-05-28T19:13:00.000-07:00

So, April 30, 2008, will live in infamy as the day the Polidors ALMOST made it into the Alhambra. The Alhambra is the one thing I desperately wanted to experience in Granada. It is even on my list of things to do before I die (now checked off!). Let me give you some backgroud. You CAN make reservations for the Alhambra, but you need lots of advance notice (we did not have). The Alhambra has a set number of tickets for sale each day. Half can be reserved ahead of time. The other half can be bought the day of. So the four of us wake up early on Wednesday and set out for the Alhambra (you can walk there from A & D's house!). We get in line and wait. and wait. and wait. For 4 hours. yep, that's right. We carefully positioned two people in each of the two lines to better our chances of getting a ticket. Well, Colin and I are at the very front of the line. The only thing standing between us and tickets is 1 guy! That's when the announcement came that all the tickets for this day had been sold. Foiled! What did we do? Well in true Spaniard style, we took the opportunity to see all the free stuff at the Alhambra and then we headed to the Albacin, which is the old moorish part of the city. We did some sightseeing, had some tapas (baby shark and fried eggplant), and ended the day with some Moroccan food (friends, I have gotten much more adventurous in my eating). Here are some pics from this day - which I must admit was one of my fav days!

2008-05-22T12:35:00.000-07:00

As most of you already know, Steven Curtis Chapman and his family have lost their youngest daughter. For more info, see The Tennessean. My heart is breaking for this family. Please lift them up in prayer today.

Guess the feet...

2008-05-22T00:44:00.000-07:00

While we were in Spain, it became popular to take photos of our feet. I'm not sure how this started, but check it out and see if you can guess the feet!

Check out our new blog!

2008-05-20T18:40:00.000-07:00

New post below...keep scrolling.

So several weeks ago, I was noticing that several blogs I read got a "face lift". In other words, got some cool new headers (i.e. Renee). So I was telling Colin that I found someone to "fix up" our blog for a small fee. So he says, "well I can do that...for free". okay. I always knew this husband of mine was a "tech guy", but I typically zone out when he starts talking "techie". I guess I never realized how it could help me. So he made this totally cool header and even picked the pictures for it. I am so impressed. Thanks, C, you are the best!

Although I'm not sure how this pic didn't make the final cut. It was one of my finer moments...

We're Back

2008-05-20T15:41:00.000-07:00

I've been a total slacker at updating the blog, but we are back from Spain. It was amazing. Seriously. I'll be posting pictures in segments because we took so many! I think the best part of the trip for me was experiencing another country through a "local's" eyes. We went to so many fabulous restaurants and sights that I know would not be found in Lonely Planet. Thanks to Amberly and David for being our tour guides for the week. It was also really helpful that they both are fluent in Spanish. We were glad to get home to our little guy who was positively spoiled during this his week of spring training at my parents' house! Below are the first set of pics!

Our first 2 days in Spain were spent in Malaga, the coastal city that we flew into. Amberly and David met us there. We visited the beach and toured the Alcazaba, which is a 13th century Moorish fort. There was also a really great ice cream place.

I think we might be growing up...

2008-04-25T09:59:00.001-07:00

I will now confess that I am a closet MTV fan. I remember being in middle school and discovering MTV. If mom would have let me, I would have watched music videos all day. As an adult, I must admit that I am a fan of the Real World and The Hills. And my all time favorites are those challenges between old cast members. So this week, Colin recorded the new season of the real world for me and I was so excited. During the show, we both looked at each other and said, "this is kind of lame". Colin then said, "Is MTV losing their touch?". I replied, "I think we might be growing up"...

Update

2008-04-14T21:07:00.000-07:00

We're temporarily using our old template while we are updating. Pardon our progress.
I omitted a pic of travis from my previous post - my apologies peep - please see pic above.
We leave for Spain in 12 days!!!
Danza is getting a haircut this week - stay tuned...

A Visit from Cara!

2008-04-13T19:34:00.000-07:00

My friend, Cara, came for a visit last weekend. We worked together at Vandy for a while before she headed home to Michigan. She also brought her husband, Travis, and their daughter, Adalynn. You see, Adalynn is 4 months old. While it's basically my job to work with infants all day and help them with their feeding, my husband and dog have never really been around an infant. But Adalynn, my friends, is pretty much the perfect baby. I think she cried once when she was hungry, but it was very short lived. And she slept all night! Even when the wii playing got pretty loud. And Danza, well, he thought she was pretty awesome. Here are some pics - and check out Cara's blog to the right.

Adalynn
Me and Cara
Colin with Adalynn
Danza really wanted to share toys!

We're going to SPAIN...

2008-04-04T22:18:00.000-07:00

In exactly 22 days (or 3 weeks from tomorrow)! I am so excited (in case you couldn't tell).

We are going to visit these guys - Amberly (Colin's sister) and David (Amberly's husband) because they live in Spain. Granada to be exact. How cool is that?

2008-03-16T19:37:00.000-07:00

I just got back from a Bachelorette weekend for my friend, Mari-Etta. 12 bridesmaids, 1 bride, and a weekend in Chattanooga. We spent Saturday at the spa, did some shopping, and threw a lingerie shower. Great weekend - lots of fun. Here's a pic of the bride to be with the crown we insisted she wear!

I was glad to get home to see my two favorite guys. Even better, I came home to a spotless house, courtesy of Colin. And he made dinner too. Who's got the best husband - pretty sure I do!! I tried to post some pics of my clean house, but Blogger and I are having difficulty.

Meet Hector

2008-03-09T20:58:00.000-07:00

I've been waiting not so patiently for our sponsor packet from Compassion to arrive. And it's finally here!!! Let me introduce you to Hector...

Hector is 6 years old and he lives in Nicaragua. There are seven children in his family. He enjoys soccer and running. His chores include carrying water, gathering firewood, and running errands. Hector also attends church activities regularly.

So every month we send $32 and Hector receives Bible teaching, medical checkups, nutritious food, health education, birthday celebrations, and homework supervision. Hector's parents also receive health education. And someone from Compassion visits Hector's home at least once a month. All that for only $32! Find out how to sponsor a child here.

Once we decided to sponsor a child, we prayed fervently for which child to sponsor. Here were some of our thoughts. First, we chose a child on the longest wait list. That means that the children had been waiting over six months for a sponsor. Next, we wanted a child with a large family because the education and support provided to the parents from Compassion will benefit the entire family. We wanted to help as many people as we could. And, finally, I can't explain this, but I knew Hector was the one when we saw him on the screen. I know that God intended us to be together! You can choose a child based on a number of criteria: age, country, special needs, etc. Go here to check it out.

I know God has big plans for Hector and I feel so privileged to be a part of his life. I urge you all to consider sponsoring a child - it's up to you and me to end the cycle of poverty. We CAN do it - one child at a time. I'll leave you with words from Jesus...

"...and whoever welcomes a little child like this in My name welcomes Me" Matthew 18:5

Free Rice

2008-02-28T19:27:00.000-08:00

Check out this site - Free Rice. It's a vocabulary game where you earn 20 grains of rice for every correct word. The rice goes to hungry people in developing countries. Colin and I are currently at Level 44 and have earned 1000 grains.

On a more serious note...

2008-02-23T08:25:00.000-08:00

About 6 weeks before Christmas, I met poverty face to face in a little girl at work. It broke my heart. Literally. I was amazed that people actually live in this kind of poverty in today's world. I mean, it's 2008 people, and 1.3 billion people in this world do not have access to clean water. Seriously? I have an endless supply of clean water and always have. Friends, we, as a country, are too wealthy to let this continue.

So, what to do?

After meeting this sweet girl, the Christmas holidays came, and we were busy with family, traveling, and the like. She was discharged, but somehow her face always came back to my mind. I began to feel that God was placing this burden on my heart. And He wouldn't let up. So, about 2 weeks ago, I told Colin, "I don't think God places this kind of burden on someone unless He wants them to do something about it". Just saying that out loud and believing it, opened so many doors. I regularly follow my friend, Beth's blog (please check it out - she is gifted beyond measure with her thoughts and words). Long story short, I found the Uganda widget on her blog, which led me to Shaun Groves' blog, which led me to read all about Uganda and Compassion International.

So what to do?

Colin and I sponsored our first compassion child. His name is Hector, he is 5 years old, and he lives in Nicarauga. For $32 a month, Hector's nutritional, educational, medical, and spiritual needs are met. He is educated, fed, vaccinated, and taught about a God who loves him beyond measure. How lucky am I that I get to be a part of something so amazing...

2008-02-21T09:37:00.000-08:00

I read this on the back of my starbucks cup this morning...

"You can't lead the people, if you don't love the people. You can't save the people, if you don't serve the people". Cornel West, Princeton University

Sounds a lot like Jesus, doesn't it?

Uganda

2008-02-15T09:51:00.000-08:00

Hey everyone, please click on the link to the right about Uganda. Just click on read and choose a blog from the list. My personal favorite is Shaun Groves. These people are all regular bloggers who traveled to Uganda this week to bring awareness to the extreme poverty. I have many thoughts I would like to share about poverty, but I need to sort it out in my head first. But please read just one blog...

Happy Hearts Day

2008-02-14T09:42:00.000-08:00

This little guy would like to wish everyone a happy valentine's day! We hope your day is filled with love...

Jericho is Back!!!

2008-02-13T18:54:00.000-08:00

Colin's favorite t.v. show, Jericho, is back on! CBS tried to cancel it, but so many fans complained that they brought it back. Check it out...

BSF

2008-02-04T19:34:00.000-08:00

I recently began a new bible study called Bible Study Fellowship, or BSF. It is an inter-denominational Bible study aimed at "growing deeper in knowledge and understanding of God and the Bible" (Learn more here). It is amazing and I highly recommend it. We are currently studying the book of Matthew and the parables of Jesus. This past week we focused on Jesus and Peter walking on the water...and having the faith to step out of the boat. Here's a thought that struck a chord with me, "Keep looking to Jesus. He knows the circumstances and the danger and would never call you if He would not also bring you through". What an awesome God we serve.

2008-02-04T19:30:00.000-08:00

Check out our new bedroom! No this pic is not my house, but this is our new duvet cover. It turns out the second wedding anniversary is "cotton", so this was my gift to Colin. He loves gray anything!!

From the mouths of babes...

2008-02-04T19:25:00.000-08:00

I was walking home from work today and I took a shortcut through Dragon Park. There is a school between the park and our house and several children were outside playing (it was in the 60s here!!!). I overheard these 2 girls talking. They were maybe 6 or 7 years old. Here's their conversation..."So, was Barack Obama the first president?", "No, he was..." I didn't hear the end of their conversation, but I'm sure it was enlightening!

Food for thought, literally

2008-01-31T06:05:00.001-08:00

Here's an article from The New York times that's really interesting. The author is the same guy who wrote my favorite cookbook, Mark Bittman.

18 - 25

2008-01-18T08:21:00.000-08:00

One of the great things about working at Vanderbilt is all the research that always going on. I'm a big fan of research, I mean how else are we going to learn new things. We often get system wide emails about different research teams looking for subjects. I found one the other day that offered compensation for filling out a survey. Sign me up. I say that the study was for people 18-25 years old. Then I realized that this no longer applies to me. Sad, but true!

Wealthy?

2008-01-17T11:32:00.000-08:00

My best friend Lisa is a high school biology teacher. She is really great at her job. Over dinner the other night she was telling me about an activity she had her class participate in this week. It was called a hunger banquet. She divided her class into wealthy, middle-class, and poor according to the appropriate percentages in third world countries (i.e. only 4 students were considered wealthy). She provided food for all students. The wealthy students received chicken parmesan, salad, and dessert. They were seated at a table with nice linens, silverware, etc. The middle class students were given rice and beans on a paper plate and seated at their desks. The poor students were given 1 cup of rice and seated on the floor. She said that many of the "poor" students were disgruntled because there was so much food left over, but they weren't allowed to eat it. This made me think about all the food I waste. Seriously. And here's the kicker...just about everyone in the U.S. would be considered "wealthy". I have never thought of myself as "wealthy" although I have given thought to what I would do if I were. But me, wealthy? As I thought about this more, I realized how fortunate I am. I have never been hungry, never feared for my life, and never not had a place to sleep. Never. I have wonderful parents who loved me enough to say "no" sometimes, and who supported me through all my educational endeavors. Speaking of education, I have not one, but two college degrees. I have a great job, great friends, and a fabulous husband. So I have a new perspective on wealth, and I would definitely consider myself wealthy beyond measure. "to whom much is given, much will be expected" Luke 12:48. If you are reading this, I count you as one of the many blessings in my life.

Cloned Hamburger?

2008-01-16T20:41:00.000-08:00

This week the FDA approved the sale of meat and dairy products made from cloned animals. I am a little disturbed by this. One of my concerns is that there will be no requirement to label this meat or milk as coming from cloned animals. While I have not read all the research yet, my initial thoughts are negative. I try to buy as much organic as possible, especially meat, milk, and produce. But who says the organic industry won't eventually get on board as well. Here's a link about this from the Chicago tribune. Would love to hear your opinion.

Tiffany

Happy Anniversary to Us!

2008-01-07T14:41:00.001-08:00

Colin and I are celebrating 2 years of wedded bliss today! Colin, you are the best husband a girl could ever hope for. I love you.

Christmas pics

2008-01-06T12:34:00.000-08:00

Here are some pictures from our Christmas in Vermont!

Congratulations Colin!

2008-01-05T20:04:00.000-08:00

Here are some long overdue pictures of Colin's graduation from Belmont. He officially has his MBA now! I am so proud of you, Colin!

Oh and Danza got a haircut today, so here's an updated picture of him.

Happy New Year

2008-01-01T19:04:00.000-08:00

From our family to yours, happy 2008! Check out our new Pendleton blanket that Joe & Suzanne gave us for Christmas. May 2008 bring you good health, peace, and love. May this be your best year yet!

5 Books that Rocked in 07

2007-12-30T20:06:00.000-08:00

I've read a ton of books this year, but these topped the list. I tried to add pictures, but the Mac and I had a fight. Obviously the Mac won! Oh well.

1) Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert

This book changed my life. No kidding. The author spends a year traveling through Italy, India, and Indonesia. She seeks pleasure in Italy, devotion in India, and balance in Indonesia. While I'm not sure if the author and I serve the same God, her search to deepen her relationship with God definitely helped me in my own journey.

2) Marley & Me by John Grogan

If you are a dog owner, this is a must read. I thought my dog was crazy, but this dog takes the cake.

3) Be Still and Get Going: A Jewish Meditation Guide for Real Life by Alan Lew

Rabbi Lew Rocks! This guy is awesome. He practiced Zen Buddhism for 10 years and then converted to Judaism. While I'm not Jewish, I loved this book. It taught me how to love God more and how to deepen my relationship with Him. If you knew me 10 or even 5 years ago, would you believe that I am a faithful practitioner of yoga and trying to learn the art of meditation? Yeah, me either. But both of these practices have added so much to my life.

4) Skinny Bitch by Rory Freedman & Kim Barnouin

This book is hilarious! It's really more about being healthy than being skinny. The authors admit in the book that they used the title to get people's attention. However, if the title is offensive to you, you should probably not read this book.

5) My Land and My People: The Original Autobiography of His Holiness the Dalai Lama of Tibet

This is an awesome story. I didn't know anything about Buddhism before I read this book, but he does a good job of explaining. It will make you want to free Tibet!!

I know this is a pretty mixed bunch, but they were all great. As I was writing, I found two more that I had to mention...

6) Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows by J.K. Rowling

So I admit I was at Borders at midnight when this book came out and I finished it in 3 days! I personally thought this was the best book in the series. It ended perfectly!!

7) How to Cook Everything by Mark Bittman

My sweet sister-in-law gave me this book for Christmas and my domestic skills have improved tremendously. I have never had a question this guy doesn't answer!

Update

2007-12-27T20:43:00.000-08:00

Whew! Is anyone still out there? It's been awhile since my last update. We've been busy especially, over the holidays. I'm still working at the Children's Hospital. Colin graduated on December 14 with his MBA from Belmont. I am so proud of him. He's been working so hard over the past 18 months, classes 4 nights a week and endless group meetings. We are both excited that school is finished. We also had a party to celebrate his graduation. Unfortunately, my camera decided to break during the graduation ceremony, so we are relying on Belmont for some pics. We spent the Thanksgiving holidays with my family. We just returned from Vermont where we spent the Christmas holidays. It was wonderful. We had about 2 1/2 feet of snow and enjoyed skiing and snowshoeing. I also spent lots of time reading in front of the fire. It was such a relaxing week. Danza was unable to make the trip to VT, so he spent a week at "camp" (my parent's house). Thanks, guys, I hope he wasn't too much trouble. Speaking of Christmas, my awesome husband gave me a Macbook. I think it may change my life. I love it. I'm still trying to navigate and get used to a Mac vs a PC. So that about sums us up. I'll post some pics when Best Buy releases my camera.

Happy Birthday Mom

2007-09-22T13:09:00.001-07:00

We want to wish my mom a very happy birthday today! She's really the best mom a girl could ask for (and a really great mother-in-law). Thanks for all you do, mom. We love you!

Back to School...

2007-08-28T20:06:00.000-07:00

So, it's that time again...back to school. We usually take Albert back to school shopping. This year we had the added bonus of shopping for uniforms, as metro schools have instituted standard attire. Basically, Albert can wear khaki and navy pants and solid colored shirts with collars. I don't know how many of you have gone shopping lately with a 9 year old boy, but it was hilarious. He even treated his fellow shoppers at Target to a runway fashion show and a few dance moves. So, Albert was pleased with all his new school stuff, especially the backpack with wheels on it. He is the sweetest kid - he made sure to get his sister some gum too! After shopping, we took Albert to Rotier's for dinner which was also quite funny. Here are some pics. Enjoy!

Albert busy filling the basket

Vogue!
Colin waiting patiently by the dressing rooms.
Headed home with the loot!

Rotier's has lots of choices!
The best hamburger in Nashville

Go Sounds!

2007-07-17T17:38:00.000-07:00

This Sunday, Colin and I took Albert to a Nashville Sounds game. In case you didn't know this already, Colin is a big brother with the Big Brothers/Big Sisters organization. He has been a big brother to Albert for over a year now. They hang out every other weekend or so and do fun stuff. Albert is nine and going into the fourth grade. Jackson and Leslie joined us for the game and Albert loved hanging around new people. I'm always taking pictures of him, so this weekend he decided he wanted to be the photographer. Here are some pics from the game. And a special thanks to Purity Dairy because it was $1 Sundae Day!

Albert posing for the camera...

Self-portrait
Jackson and Colin
Leslie, Jackson, Albert, & Colin

Tiff & Albert
Tiffany and Leslie
Albert with the field
Two peas in a pod

2007-07-11T17:17:00.000-07:00

Colin's parents, Joe and Suzanne, and his brother Justin came down to Nashville for a visit last week. We packed tons of activities into 1 week. We hit the pancake pantry of course. We also spent lots of time with the Baughs in Goodlettsville. Noah kept us all entertained! And we also drove down to Lewisburg for a visit with my parents. We had lots of good food and good times. We miss you guys already. And some more fun news. Joe and Suzanne's home town is Springfield, VT, which recently won the Simpsons contest. The premiere of the movie will be right down the street from their house!

Colin & Parker - Masters of the Grill

Danza and his grandma
Janet and Josh's new baby is due in November!
Sweet Noah
The creature from the blue lagoon
Joe and Suzanne relaxing at the pool

Joe and Joe visiting in Lewisburg
Colin and Tiff
Uncle Charlie and Frank
Justin relaxing at our house

Flugtag 2007

2007-06-23T20:30:00.000-07:00

Today, we went to see the Red Bull Flugtag at Riverfront Park. Flugtag is like a soap box derby for airplanes. Teams of five constructed aircrafts (must be man powered) and launched them off a huge platform into the Cumberland River. Needless to say, most teams did a nose dive into the river, but one team set a new record and flew 160 feet! It was at least 90 degrees, but fun nonetheless. Jackson, Leslie, and Parker joined us. Oh, and Frank Wycheck (a former Tenn. Titan) was one of the judges.

Parker, Colin, Jackson, & Leslie

Colin & Tiff

Welcome to Blogger

2007-06-21T16:46:00.000-07:00

I have finally entered the blogging world. I must give credit to Leslie Ware for introducing me to this world. So, first things first, I'll introduce our family. I am Tiffany (formerly Andrews) and I am a speech pathologist at Vanderbilt Children's Hospital. I love my job - I basically get to hang out with kids all day and help them with their speech and feeding problems. I was formerly a teacher, but I had a quarter life crisis, so back to school I went. I met Colin while in graduate school when he was living in Vermont. We got married in January 2006. Colin is currently getting his MBA from Belmont and will graduate this December. Colin and his brother Parker recently started a business, Cell Journalist. We also have a third family member, our puppy Danza. He was the gift that keeps on giving (thanks colin!). So that sums us up. We hope you will enjoy reading about our family and thanks for checking in on us!

I must also give credit to my high-tech husband for helping with this cool slideshow!