Toddler Times:

We took our last little family trip down to Branson around Sept. 8, 2011. To give you a break from traveling, Mason, we stopped off at Bass Pro Shop in Springfield, IL. You were all about exploring the giant fish tanks and sprinting around the store, while hanging onto our hands. We even went up and down the stairs several times and watched some little ducks play in the water. You were so thrilled!!! If we took you away for the fish tank, you navigated yourself right back to it -- and this store is enormous! It was an impressive journey! There was a few times, I seriously thought you were going to just take off running by yourself. (You have been walking but always holding onto someone's hand for that little extra support.)

It wasn't just two days later, on Sept. 10, you took your first solo steps down at the condo!!! Mommy and Daddy were so elated! We even managed to catch you on camera! You were being a little shyster to boot! Daddy and Mommy would ask you not to touch the TV/stereo electronics but you did anyway. You thought it was a game -- humorous even -- when we told you, "No."

Cute story: One day Mommy was getting ready to take you outside to play. You noticed her sunglasses on top of her head. So you started talking about wanting to wear yours. It was the cutest thing. Although your words were a bit jumbled, I knew exactly what you were requesting: "Can I wear my shades Mommy?"

Ever since those first steps, you've been getting stronger and stronger! It's been so amazing to watch you grow. You still say please and pat your little chest when you want a drink, fruit snacks or other goodies. It's currently Oct. 17, one day past your sibling's due date. When you are hungry you either grab onto our fingers and pull us over to the kitchen or go to your high-chair and attempt to crawl in. You still like to grunt and point a lot. It's precious!

In attempt to get up onto your feet, I've caught you bent over on all fours. You'll even stop to look between your legs for a bit before getting upright. You love to push your Match-Box-Cars around the house. Thomas the Train is your favorite bath toy. Daddy can make you giggle the best. You love to wrestle around, ride on his back, climb on him and play! He can tickle you and give your zerberts on your tummy and you just giggle and giggle.

You started saying, "Da-da," about a month ago or so. It was a weekend were we helped daddy prep for deer season. You were in your high chair, daddy was in the garage and you just blurted it out. "Ma-ma," and "Ba-ba," still seem to be your favorite catch phrases...but you throw daddy's name in there for good measure.

We've taken you back down to the farm a few times and have let you hang out in the driver's seat more and more. Whether you're actually driving or while the car is in park, you LOVE to be behind the steering wheel. You be-bop around, bounce up and down and babble, all the while attempting to push various radio buttons.

I took you to the PEDS office on Oct. 4. You weighed 27 lbs. and are 33" tall! Big boy! :o) With lots of hair! You weren't feeling so well -- some allergies were bothering you. We had just returned from a quick trip to WI. You played in the fall leaves, chased the chickens around, enjoyed eating apples from the orchard -- all by yourself! You snuggled with Grandma and Grandpa. You had the BEST time rolling around on their new mattress. You were as happy as can be!

Last week you helped me spruce up our car to get it ready for the new baby. Helping me wash up the floor mats with a scrub brush and bucket was a favorite chore for you! You managed to stay fairly dry, with a little help from mommy. Otherwise, you were content crawling around different parts of the car -- you're such a great helper!

You acknowledged and understand so much these days. Mommy said, "Mason, Mommy and Daddy are going to be bringing a new baby home soon." You listened so intently and then looked around the house, as if to gesture, "Where is the baby?" It was priceless!

You know what birds are and love to point them out! You know what pumpkins are. You enjoy playing in your sandbox and being outside. Last night, we went for a walk in the new subdivision by our house. You stopped several times to pick up rocks along the way. Sometimes you'd kneel down in the gutter and place the rocks up on the curb. You just love to play!

You love the train DVD Grandpa Cowell got you! You request to watch it every morning and you smile real big, with your pacifier in, when the song starts up! To see your face light up with anticipation every morning is the best part about my day! :o)

We've been watching "The X Factor" a show about finding musical talent. You'll get into the performances and start "raising the roof" with your little hands. It's too cute. I've even videoed you line dancing. Some times you just wiggle your middle around, for no reason.

Sometimes, when I come to wipe off your hands and face, after eating, you lean your body and head all the way over to one side. I don't know why, but it's cute seeing you lie your head down on your tray like that. Other times you shake your little blonde curls back and forth or just start talking to the ceiling about this and that. You also like to cover your face with your hands and play bashful when it's time for clean up.

You are definitely a Grandpa Cowell's boy! Whenever you see him, you start kicking your legs like crazy and get sport the happiest of faces! When he has to leave, you pout your little lip and even whine/cry a bit. It's adorable!

You like to play hide and seek with the pillows from our bed. You'll climb around on the floor and snuggle in and smile and giggle, as we come to get you. Sometimes you get really in to it and end up bonking your head, which is never fun for anyone!

You avoid having your diaper changed or getting dressed. You think it's a game and you'll try to escape from us and then lay flat down on the floor, trying to blend in with your surroundings. It's too funny to watch you avoid us...not as funny when we try to get you ready for bed...but that's ok...we get through it.

Things you love: fruit snacks, dried cranberries, Nilla Wafers, pancakes/waffles and syrup, oatmeal and homemade applesauce, fruit, baby snack bars, raisins, etc.

Things we love about Mason: EVERYTHING!

Mommy can't think of anything else right now. So she'll check back in again soon. And we'll be a family of four! Wowie! Are you ready Mason? I hope so! We love you lots!

Journal Entry of current on-goings:

Last week, you (Mason) came down with an unexplainable fever that lasted a few days. On Sunday, August 14, the rash displayed itself. Roseola. Poor fella! I don't think I've ever seen you fussier. I felt so bad for you. You wanted mommy and you didn't know what else you wanted. Luckily, you're on the mend and displaying a much happier disposition today!

Daddy and I took you down to the farm tonight. On the ride to Ruma, daddy said you were be-bopping in the back seat to Luke Brian and clapping your hands! Mommy was following in her car -- she could see daddy really getting into it too! HA!

Once we off the beaten path, we let you out of your carseat and into the driver's chair, with daddy's guidance of course! Seeing your face light up, your eyes crinkle and your mouth sporting the biggest smile, was beyond words. You are a true country boy, through and through -- that's one of our favorite things about you! As we survived the terrain of the field (mommy is 31 one weeks pregnant and those bumps can be doozies), you got the biggest charge out of picking up speed, cranking the wheel and riding those bumps! You were down right giddy with excitement! Daddy and I were laughing. The truck ride held such a happy atmosphere -- all because you've got the best personality, Mason! We love you so! (We can't wait to get you some cowboy boots...when you're older!)

These days you'll come up to us and grab our fingers and take us where you want to go. You really enjoy curbs, climbing stairs, the landscape ledges or anything that provides a challenge. Unfortunately, you want to play on the side of the road (our subdivision lacks a sidewalk) and it becomes extremely upsetting to you when you're told otherwise. But with a little distraction we get you turned around and happily on your way again.

When you get into something new around the house you talk to us about it. It's really cute. We're not sure what you're saying, but we listen intently and explain to you what you're discovering.

You get the biggest kick out of climbing on daddy. He gives you rides around the house like pony. You like to play rough with him and tumble around too.

Today, when you woke up from your nap you were the happiest baby ever. We played balls -- you'd drop them over the rail and mommy would hand them back to you. Then we broke out Alvin, Simon and Theodore -- an all time favorite!! Mommy couldn't help but snap some photos. Later this evening you tried to snack on their fuzzy little hairdo's. You made the cutest, funniest little face when it tickled your lips and nose!

Even though we've tried to steer you away from the TV you really do enjoy "Rio." You'll bounce, dance and groove along, while watching it. You also fancy the "Alvin and the Chipmunks" DVDs too. You're still really into "Toy Story." You've also been known to watch "Bambi" and "Fox and the Hound."

You'll pat your chest to say, "Please." Most of the time, this is for a jellybean at the office. But you're doing it more and more. It's so precious.

This week we also "FaceTimed" Nanna Boo and Bear Paw. I will always remember the way your face light up in a big 'ole smile when you saw them on the computer screen. Technology is amazing! How fun it will be to keep tabs on family this way!

Sometimes you'll go to hide from us and put your face sideways, down on the ground, tuck your little legs up under you, which pushes your hind-end up in the air. It's so precious when you do this -- your little blonde curls, your mischievous smile -- you think you're hiding and you anxiously await us to discover your sweet self!

Yesterday mommy and daddy where in the kitchen talking. You were in the living room watching a little TV. Even though we were right there, you managed to climb up onto the end table and hang out with the remotes! You're a stinker that way!

Daddy and I both agree, you are getting more cute with each passing day! In about two months you're going to be a big brother. We're so excited to be able to share all our love with you and your new sibling. There aren't enough words to describe the magnitude of love that our heart's hold for you, Mason. You're truly the best thing about our lives. We look forward to all the new, fun, exciting and wonderful things you're going to show us about life.

There's so much that you do each and every day! We are living the dream and loving life -- together!

What Mason has been doing in July:

Mason is changing, growing and continuing to make us smile as he melts our hearts, day in and day out.


Last week at the office, just before Matt dashed out the door, we smooched. I was also holding Mason at the time. Mason watched this display of affection as he drew his hand to his mouth and gave us his precious "crinkle-faced" smile. (Almost in a bashful, embarassed manner.) It was so darn cute, Matt and I couldn't help but smooch once more and wait for his reaction -- there is was all over again. I hope to recall those very moments forever.

Lately, when out and about people keep referring to Mason as "she, " despite our best attempts to have him sport blue and/or very boyish clothing. His "Goldilocks" fool 'em every time! We don't mind correcting people. We also have no intention of cutting his hair anytime soon. It's such a part of his personality -- all bubbly, all the time.

I have been playing with Theodore, from Alvin and The Chipmunks...as I make him slowly walk up to Mason...then sneeze and go flying through the air...hitting Mason in the belly!!! I am then privy to a zealous belly giggles and squirming. Mason hands Theodore back to me and we repeat this entertainment again and again. Then he'll pick up Theodore, like a little puppy, and carry him around in his mouth as he crawls away, head held high in the air. Sometimes he'll bite and carry his "Woobie" (favorite blanket) or Sweet Pea Baby (the baby doll I've introduced since he'll be a big brother soon).

Mason also really enjoys pushing his walk-behind toys. It's so much fun to see him make laps around the living room. It's too cute that he knows how to pick up the walker and maneuver it accordingly, while sharing his "old man grunts" with us.

Mason says "Ma-Ma" quite frequently. He's been saying this off and on now since about eleven months. We work on "Da-Da" but he just won't spit that one out yet. He'll also say "Bub-bub" and some other talking, rambling, singing, etc. He enjoys hanging onto the little black IPOD boom-box we got him, while cruizing in his stroller. Lately, anytime there's music playing you can see Mason do any and/or all of the following: bob his head, swing his little left hand to the beat, while on all fours -- bebop frontwards and back, clap his hands and I just saw him try to snap his fingers (7/24/2011). I can't say for certain if he was completely aware of this snapping fingers attempt but either way it was priceless.

Mason likes fruit of any kind, Jelly Bellies (just like his Daddy and Grandpa Cowell), whatever it is we're eating -- regardless of spiciness, Cinnamon raisin toast, bagels, homemade Nutri-Grain bars, Graham Crackers, yogurt, tomatoes, cucumbers and just about anything else. He likes it when I make sloppy joes, Mexican dishes, Crock-pot chicken/beef with potatoes and carrots. He'll scarf down Nanna Boo's Ham and Bean soup too. He's definitely a good little eater. He's more than happy to share his food and he'll even feed you.

While in a playful mood, Mason will attempt to hide from us. He'll bury his face underneath a pillow and lie flat on his belly. Or he'll poke his head in a corner and maybe even bonk his head on the wall while doing so. As long as his face is hidden, he thinks he's invincible, as he waits for us to surprise him.

When we go to get Mason out of his crib, he'll first hand you his "Woobie" and then raise up his arms.


Mason gets a real kick out of our vacuum. Nanna Boo took him for a ride on it! So now he's excited to ride it around the house and leans forward and "headbangs," if you will, while it's moving. Or he really enjoys being dragged around the house on a blanket. Anytime we're folding up a blanket he comes a crawlin' and "climbs aboard" anxiously awaiting his ride.

Last week, Mason decided he really wanted the TV remotes. He climbed over the arm of the couch and onto the side table!! Needless to say, Mommy came running to his rescue! Little stinker! Mason likes any working gadget. It brings a smile to his face to "point and click" the remotes, press all buttons on our cell phones or the IPOD, bang on the computer keyboard or wield around the mouse. He's into technology like his Daddy.

We've been working on signing please -- or at least patting our chest during demonstration. There will be times when Mason will involuntarily conduct this sign language in exchange for food. At just under fifteen months, each and every little milestone, giggle, wiggle, facial expression or potential word is such a thrill for Matt and I!!

When new people are friendly to Mason he grins big, clings on tight and acts playfully bashful. It's so cute to watch him be shy.

At the playground, Mason likes to climb up the slide --he's always game for a challenge. It's his workout. He likes exercise, obstacle courses, crawling through the grass and up the stairs or rolling around on the ab ball.

He knows where the "toy drawer" is in the kitchen and helps himself to the its contents often.
He dismounts off our bed, backwards and gently flops onto the floor -- thank goodness for the diaper padding under his little tush! LOL!

He's been getting stronger and stronger and prides himself on independently standing every now and again. We know it won't be long and he'll officially be walking. Until then, we're enjoying each and every moment.

He likes to tap his little index finger at various animals or insects during story time, just like I do, when labeling the item. It's so cute to watch him mimic my finger tapping. How neat it is to know his little mind is learning and churning. When asked where the deer is in Daddy's office Mason happily points to the buck on the wall. Speaking of deer, Mason loves to watch anything to do with StruttinBucks on Daddy's computer. He jams to he music or sports of big smile during each video clip -- he definitely is a mini version of Matt and I. When God created Mason He made him with equal parts of the both of us!

The First Year...

This is me jumping in, like a playful child into freshly fallen rain puddles:

My first year of motherhood has gone by in the blink of an eye. It has changed me for the better. It has made me even MORE passionate about life. It has given me the deeper yearning to celebrate the little things. (This is a simple summary, for being a mother has deeply impacted my soul inexplicably so.)

Mason's first year has been sufficiently documented in photo and home video mediums. However, I have been harboring feelings of regret when it comes to anecdotal writings. In attempt to "journal" the wonderful happenings of our days, this blog has come to fruition (along with the encourgament from some friends and my husband). I plan to share comical instances, heart-melting moments and the joys of being a wife and a mother. This is my electronic, social media, trendy/savvy way of documenting, the way we are "Living the Dream."

I'm not sure I can quite describe the cute, one-sided shoulder shrug and downward finger point Mason's uses when gesturing to his choice destination -- most times the food pantry. Or any of the other priceless mannerisms of his character, but I look forward to reviewing these blogs with fond recollection.

At thirteen months and four weeks, Mason enjoys making happy, nose-fully-crinkled, eyes squinted -- smiles, in which he displays his four top and four bottom toofers and perfect blond curls. (This face reminds me of a male version of Shirley Temple -- that's how sweet, innocent and captivating it is.)

When eating a blueberry he'll make the above described face as he "pops" it in between his teeth displaying his accomplishment for you to see!

During certain moments of play/wrestle time, Mason will let out a delighted shrill of anticipation before erupting into a full-blown belly giggle as we "rough him up a bit."

He'll move and groove, clapping his hands and shaking his head anytime there's a musical beat in the air.

Despite the daily required tasks, it's easy to find myself simply observing Mason. There's something so captivating and fascinating about being privy to viewing life through the eyes of your children. My husband, Matt, and I can have lengthy conversations about Mason and his discoveries.

In closing, I might add we're expecting another child come the middle of October. We're more than thrilled to give Mason the gift of a best friend, a sibling.

I look forward to composing more entries as our life unfolds, our funny bones are tickled and our "Living the Dream" continues. Matt and I have a one-of-a-kind relationship that allows us to work together, be extremely supportive of each other's interests and hobbies, love one another timelessly and raise a family with core values. Thank you for reading this and I hope you come back to catch up with us often. Peace and blessings.