Merry Christmas!

We are just back from a snowy, wonderful time with our family in Manitoba! It was somehow - relaxing, although vacations, I must say, have become much less "vacation-y" these days. The whole less-laundry, more-sleep associated with most vacations is just not reality these days. But, we made up the difference with extra chocolate and wine. And, the time we spent laughing with our family is really all we were after. As for getting back into the U.S. after the 12/25 terrorist deal, now that is anther story!!
Here are pics from our first snowfall in Baltimore. You might have received one of these on a Christmas card from us if we were organized enough to get one out in your direction! Hope you had a FABULOUS holiday!

Ian ~one month ago~

Oh Christmas Tree, Oh Christmas Tree...

Getting our Christmas Tree, 2009... Not a far cry from the Griswald Family Christmas. Everyone I talked with in our area - nope, not going out in the blizzard to chop down a tree - was I crazy for asking? Nothing doing. Out we went and the gusts of snowy wind literally took your breathe away. No coat? No problem. Connor and Noah rocked the sweatshirts to find our perfect tree. Ian and I huddled out by the hot chocolate hut (found all over Noah's face below).

One of My Favorite Moments...

Just Now (4 Months Today)

Ian did great for his shots appointment today. He flirted with all the girls in the waiting room (many commented at his happiness and how cute he was - and of course I agreed!) and he even coo'ed at the nurse (right before he got two shots). I had to slip in here quickly & update on our little man :)

Height: 25" (90%)
Weight: 13 lbs, 8oz (25%)
Head: 42cm (50%)

Today is my first day back to work. It was also Ian's 4 month check up. I am nervous but excited to be back. It feels good to use my brain in capacities beyond mommy-hood; at the same time, it makes me sad. Back to it - I just had to document this day!!

This Small for a Moment

And the moments, they are going fast...

Main things remain consistent, though. I am blessed! Two beautiful boys and my ability to give them my very best. I am so thankful for my role as mother.
Late...Connor and Noah drippin' on Halloween. Lot lots more to post and share as more time opens up... Krista's wedding and Thanksgiving...

These pics - the boys and I made for Connor's bday. Bright Blue paint, two young boys - you do the math.

Two Soggy Monkeys

Seen a ghost!





I had two soggy monkeys! Halloween night was a rainy one. Didn't stop the Bates's! Nor did a broken umbrella or a crying baby! Onward, there was candy to be pillaged!


My sweet baby Ian :) He loves to hold hands.

Brothers

Yo Bro! North Carolina Cousins

The boys and I headed to NC for almost two weeks in early October. Connor joined us for the weekends. Having all the family support was HUGE! So nice - like vacation for me:) They have so much love for our boys and my appreciation for (and happiness I get from) that is immense. I love our families so much. All the pics.

The Raynor Family

Sock it to me!

Grampie and his boys!

Chapel Hill - you should SEE Carly and Matt's beautiful new home. Wowza. Amazing!

Baby Grey

Baby Ian



Noah's nap fort he built out of pillows.

Pumpkin Farm

"Is the Bates Family ready?!" This is the question Connor rings out most Saturday mornings - errr, afternoons - it is usually around 1:00pm before we can finally get out the door. Here we are at a local Pumpkin Farm - on a beautiful day, end of September. When you ask Noah "where do pumpkins come from?" he will let you know that they come from a Pumpkin Farm, of course!



More Pumpkin Farm pics