Oregonian in South Carolina!

Grandpa and Grandma Nelly Visit

2011-11-28T22:00:00.000-05:00

Yay, more visitors! Ryan's parents came to visit late last month. Unfortunately, we had cold weather while they were here. We did a little sightseeing, but mostly they just doted on Bryce.

We went to Drayton Hall Plantation, shown below, played at the Beach, went on a carriage ride downtown, went shopping for Bryce (early Christmas).

On Halloween we went to Firehouse Subs for lunch. Bryce tried the salt and vinegar chips! Silly boy.

Hugs from Grandma.

So scary!

We took Bryce to only a few houses trick-or-treating. Our poor judgement decided to take him to a decorated house first. He clung to me very tight and was very scared. So we tried a 'boring' house and he let us put him down but he was not about to knock or say hello. We gave up shortly after.

Proof that the grandparents were here.

Yuck! We have taught him well.

Olivia's 1st Birthday

2011-11-28T21:12:00.000-05:00

Ryan, Bryce and I traveled upstate to take part in our cousin's daughters 1st birthday and christening. It was wonderful to meet and visit with family.

Bryce enjoyed showing Olivia how to open gifts and had a blast playing with them.

Ooh, a new wagon. A fun ride for a while, but Bryce enjoyed playing Cornhole more.

Umm cake.

Of course I should have taken more photos, but this time my memory card was full and my battery went dead! I should not be in charge of capturing memories.

Auntie Steph's Visit

2011-11-28T20:59:00.000-05:00

My sister Stephanie came to visit us for a week back in October- yes, I know I am way behind. We had wonderful weather and got to spend a lot of time outside. First we headed to the pumpkin patch...

Bryce enjoyed taking a spin on all of the antique tractors

Silly guy kept sitting on the pumpkins

Man, these are heavy

Sadly, Bryce got several fire ant bites while we were in the field. Took it like a trooper.

Steph, Bryce and I headed down to Savannah for the weekend. We enjoyed the local park and had a great lunch.

We walked downtown, which was a bit disappointing. The following day we headed to the beach. Beautiful.

I had to work much of the time during the week so Steph and Bryce headed into downtown Charleston.

Auntie Steph thought Bryce wouldn't go in the fountain...must not check out the blog!

Before my sis headed home we went to Magnolia Plantation to do some sightseeing. The gardens were nice, but it would have been brilliant in the spring/summer.

Bye Auntie Steph, Thanks for visiting, Come back soon!

The rest of our NW trip

2011-11-13T11:12:00.000-05:00

The rest of our NW trip home was spent with family and friends that we truly miss. If only Charleston was only a short drive instead of a long, expensive flight way.

We went to the zoo and Bryce enjoyed it much more than the first time. He was very excited to see all of the animals. Luckily all most all of them were cooperative and were active.

A long day at the zoo is tiring! I only wish I had a stroller to get pushed in.

We also had a beautiful, but brisk, day at the Oregon Coast.

Bryce didn't understand why he didn't get to go in the water

Bryce's favorite puppy

As always, I wish I had more time in Oregon. And I wish I had taken more photos... So many family and friends came to visit- We appreciate it and had a wonderful visit with everyone.

Off to the Merkel Family Reunion.

My cousin's house has a great backyard for fun and games. Bryce took full advantage off all of their toys.

Bryce racing Hope...

Playing hide and go seek with Jordan

Merkel's Rock

Hanging out in the pool with Kylee

Thank you Kennewick Kids for the fun weekend!

A celebratory trip home

2011-11-13T10:10:00.002-05:00

I'm so happy Jane has joined our family! Here are just a few of my favorite photos taken professionally and by family.

I think Uncle Marques was happy to see Bryce!

Bryce cleaning up the backyard during the rehearsal, thanks Kristen.

A beautiful backyard wedding. So artfully done.

The first moment...

And the ceremony begins

Steph and Ryan, Jane's brother, read the blessing

And it's official!

One big happy family!

Cheers, we DID it!

The Hase Dance Off!

Grandpa Nelly lemons are sour!

Yay, lots of gifts. Quick work with Bryce's help, ha.

Bryce helping unpack the cooler

Congratulations Marques and Jane!

Month 14

2011-11-12T15:52:00.000-05:00

My precious boy

Nelson Boys are #1

Loves the Water!

Grandpa Steve look at how strong I am!

Playing at the Beach. I think we could get used to this.

Month 13

2011-11-06T21:21:00.000-05:00

It seemed like this summer Bryce was always in his new highchair. And he was always eager and willing to eat just about anything we gave him.

One of his games is to flop his head from side-to-side while we mimic him. Silly.

Bryce decided to clean out the dresser. He pulled out all of the diapers and wipes and spread them all around.

Yummy, some of Bryce's favorites- blueberries and watermelon.

The Spoken Word

2011-11-06T21:13:00.000-05:00

It seems that Bryce is learning new things everyday. He understands so much of what we say now its amazing. His is also talking a lot now and I can't seem to remember all of his words so I decided to make list...
Daddy
Olive
Kitty
No, no
that's not nice
bad boy
football
eye
ball
truck
duck
meow
hiss (sound a cat makes when it doesn't like Bryce)
doggy
woof woof
up
golf ball
Thomas
roar (dinosaur)
uh oh
Elmo
I did that
Bubbles!
hot
that's not nice

bad boy
banana
moo
cracker
wow
crispies (as in rice crispies)
shoe
cheese
ick/yuck

Month 12

2011-11-06T21:02:00.000-05:00

Sorry all that I have been terribly slow in getting photos uploaded. These photos were from just after Bryce turned one and we moved to SC. I'll continue to get updated over the next few evenings. I've downloaded them from our cameras, picked out my favorite ones and now just need to upload and put in a few captions.

Enjoy!

There is a great waterfront park in downtown Charleston where Bryce enjoys playing in the two water fountains.

Also at the park is a long pier with several relaxing porch swings

Kitty!

My cute little piggie

I previously put several videos of Bryce playing in his box. If you didn't see them, see the posts below. He loved it. I think Santa may just bring boxes!

Second trip to the beach. He may actually catch one of these birds, they are quite friendly.

Playing in the fountain at the park near our house. We frequented it quite regularly during the warm summer.

Bryce playing with his LOUD popcorn popper. Why did I get this for him?

Wish I had someone to push me.

Kisses.

Banging on his drums

As promised

2011-10-09T21:54:00.000-04:00

Sorry everyone. I've been terrible and haven't posted in a LONG time. So as I promised Marques, here are a few photos I've taken in the past few weeks. I'll try and get more up by the end of the week.

Snuggling with his paci and blanket. Must have been in a cranky mood, because we don't give it to him unless its time for bedtime.

Loving his watermelon. Never imagined that he would be such a good eater. Eats most everything we put in front of him and only recently has he decided that he will be a bit more picky.

Playing kickball at the park. He loves his red ball!

Getting a ride from Daddy.

Riding on Mommy's legs

Bryce loves to help vacuum and swiffer. As you can see, he likes to blow into the vacuum extension and make noise.

Hanging out in his toybox. We may need a new system because he stands in it and trys to reach to the top shelf of the bookshelf behind him where we keep a few of his 'adult supervised' toys.

By himself, he has started using his ball as a little seat.

Bryce's second haircut! He was helping comb his hair when it was done. I was disappointed in it when it was complete. I asked her to make sure and trim around his ears and she cut off his sideburns! He looks a bit silly but it isn't so shaggy.

Poor sick/tired boy. He was so sad for a few hours but bounced back shortly afterwards. He has been cutting molars, but overall it doesn't seem to bother him much. He has 4 upper front teeth, 4 molars and only 2 lower front teeth.

I used the lint brush on Bryce's pants after he crawled around on our cat hair-covered bedspread. He then took it and 'brushed' his hair!

Bryce has been finding acorns on our back deck. Quite the prize.

And he showed me how they are good for poking!

Snacking on cheese and watching the Steelers game today.

And they actually were playing well! Something to cheer about.

And some more videos!

2011-07-21T23:59:00.000-04:00

Getting more daring on the box!

Good thing Grandpa screwed the gate in well

More cell phone practice. We are testing him now....

Gooey hands

Being naughty

More action shots

2011-07-21T23:27:00.000-04:00

Mean mommy laughing at him when he gets his foot stuck

Hide and Go Seek and then Chase, you know, whatever makes him laugh

Playing chase with Daddy

Making beautiful music

Bryce sure does love his yogurt

His new favorite toy, Mommy's volleyball

How fast can Bryce open an iPhone?!

I love that after its open he looks around like he did something bad.

Playing ball with Daddy. Super balls are super bouncy!

Bryce in Action!

2011-07-21T22:55:00.000-04:00

If you didn't notice, I changed the title of my blog! That being said, can I still call myself an Oregonian? My heart is still there, much of my family and many of my friends reside in the state. But what if I get yet another new license that states that I am not an Oregonian? Even though Bryce was not born there, will he ever consider himself an Oregonian? Or A Texan?!

Anyways, I have not loaded many videos recently and we have acrued quite a lot being that Bryce is tremendously active. I love watching him grow and learn, even if he has learned to unlock my phone (see below, if you get random calls from me you know why)! They take a while to load so I'll likely post them a few at a time, so continue checking back.

Just being silly

Our Silly One Year Old

2011-07-19T21:28:00.000-04:00

Hanging with Daddy on the Deck

Oooh, Olive

Priceless!

We finally broke down and bought Bryce a highchair so that I can wheel him into the kitchen to keep me company (or keep his tray full of food) while I get meals prepared. The best part is that Bryce has got to play in the big box for a few weeks. He started off just playing in the box, then it moved to getting on the box, and as the box began to sag it became his slide. Now he stands on it and bounces!

Chasing seagulls!

My new routine is to get up and go running with Bryce first thing on Saturday mornings at James Island County Park and then treat him to time on the jungle gym or....in the spray fountain. It was pretty cute as we were pulling up to the fountain he began grunting and kicking his feet. I think he likes it! All of the onlookers seem to be quite impressed with how couragous he is. Most days he just runs right in.

Bryce also likes to follow the big kids around.

Our 4th of July family photo. A bit windblown but we had a good time. The fireworks were shot off the of the battleship behind us so we were very close. Bryce was a bit scared but I held him and covered his ears and we made it through without any tears. We arrived much earlier than needed so we got a great parking spot too. Unfortunately it took us over an hour to get home!

10, 11 & 12 month oldies but goodies

2011-07-14T21:04:00.000-04:00

Here are photos that I took with my phone and finally downloaded to the computer for posting. Enjoy!

10 months- Having fun on the swing and showing off his 1st tooth

Auntie Sara giving Bryce lemons. Despite the silly faces he likes them

11 months

So Big!

Despite Ryan's disappointment, Bryce likes onions

More lemons!

Playing in the water in Kemah.

Bryce really enjoyed the water until all of the water pumps went off at once. We have now played in a few fountains here in Charleston and he loves it. I took Bryce running morning and had to park facing a fountain that I had intended on taking him in later. He saw it and got so excited and was grunting and kicking his feet. He got mad when I steered us in another direction to head out on our run first.

Loading the Penske Truck to head East...will it all fit?!

Barely!

My bound Dissertation!

One last Tx hoorah

with friends

12 months

Bryce pondering on the stairs, wonder what he is thinking?

Showing his ability to get into Everything!

Its interesting how active Bryce is, but when bigger kids are around he loves to just watch them play

Hello!

US OPEN!

2011-06-26T21:39:00.002-04:00

I feel like Ryan should write this post. I'll give you some photos and hopefully Ryan will fill in later with details. It was a very awesome experience. We were only allowed cameras on the course during the practice rounds, so of course that is when these photos were taken. Two of us at a time also got to walk along the course with Ryan. The crowds were bigger during play, which made it often times difficult to see his shots. As family we got a lot of perks like getting free lunch and snacks in the clubhouse, discounts on merchandise, special parking lots, shuttle services, free daycare (with police security outside), cell phones on site. I also got a spouses gift pack with lots of goodies inside like a scarf that retails for $110, candle, wine, congressional charm, coupons and had I arrived earlier I could have gone with the other wives on a tour of DC! I could get used to that lifestyle! It was all so amazing. I just hope Ryan got a taste of the good life and it lights a fire under his rear to really take his game to the next level.

The first 2 videos were of Ryan on the 18th green and was shown on ESPN!

This was the photo in the New York Times! Along with the link to the article.

New York Times Article

And here is the link to the article in the News Times (Forest Grove, OR local paper)

News Times Article

The rest of these photos are a out of order as I stole them from multiple sources. Enjoy!

Bryce got to hang out with Daddy for a few holes during the practice round, otherwise he was playing at the complimentary daycare. The ladies watching him really enjoyed his company. It was also great because they had shuttles between the course and the daycare facility for us parents!

Ryan's name plate for the range. We got to steal it!

Bryan and I on course during the practice round.

The car Ryan got to drive around for the week!

Signing autographs! So proud!

So glad Paul got to come and experience this awesome week.

3 generations!

Ryan with his swing coach and caddie for the week, Neil

Ryan's official 1st shot from the 1st tee box of the 111st US Open (that I illegally took with my phone)! It was so wonderful to hear them call out his name just before he teed off. I got a little teary eyed. I was so proud of him. Hopefully we will get to experience it again next year.

Bryce having some fun on the driving range after the 2nd round.

If you have not already checked them out, Ryan also has these and many more photos on his facebook page.

Washington DC

2011-06-26T21:39:00.001-04:00

Since we were in the area and had never been to Washington DC, we decided to see the sites last weekend. I was quite disappointed. I had expected that the area just surrounding The White House would be pristine with lush lawns, flowers, etc. Instead it was dirty and run down. It didn't seem to portray what a great nation this is.

The mud we waded through to see the White House

Stupid terrorists! This was as close as we got!

Bryan, Neil, Dad, Bryce and Ryan in front of the Washington Monument

The WWII Memodrial, Lincoln Memorial and the Reflecting Pool (which was non existant as it was under construction) as viewed from the Washington Monument.

Bryce enjoying the long stroll

I really liked the WWII Memorial, it was very nicely done.

The Lincoln Memorial

Vietnam Memorial

The back of the White House. Thankfully we were able to get much closer.

Of course we were behind a gate and could see snipers all around.

The street sign outside the White House.

I'm glad I went to visit and hopefully will venture back to see the rest of the city.

Mini Birthday Celebration

2011-06-26T21:38:00.002-04:00

Sadly, Bryce had a mellow 1st birthday. No giftwrapped presents. No party. Just my Dad and I. We got him a piece of cake from a local restaurant and sang him Happy Birthday. I'll let the video and photos tell the story.

I think he had fun.

So much more enjoyable to play in the cake than eat it. Maybe he takes after his mother and doesn't much care for chocolate.

Mom, I think I am done, get me out of this baby seat!

We intended to just hose off the seat, but Bryce seemed a bit interested.

So we hosed him off too

And then he got to play in the water

Angel Tree, Folly Beach & our pool

2011-06-26T21:38:00.000-04:00

My Dad, Bryce and I did a little sight seeing near our house to visit the Angel Tree. It is estimated to be 400 years old! Its quite impressive, see for yourself.

Bryce had fun playing in the leaves... and eating them.

His dirty face after trying to consume some fiber.

A few days later we ventured to Folly Beach, about 10 miles from our house. Much nicer than Galveston. Warm water, waves, wide-open beaches to run. I'm in love.

I can't belive how comfortable Bryce is with the water already. Some fear, but overall he loves it.

A view down towards Folly pier

Grandpa chasing Bryce

We have had this blowup pool since last fall, but never took the time to blow it up and fill it. As you can see, Bryce loves it.

Bryce showing off his clapping and splashing skills!

Early Birthday Gifts

2011-06-04T16:40:00.000-04:00

Grandma Nellie and Auntie Caitlyn sent Bryce his birthday package early. He won't know any better so I gave him a shot at opening it himself now instead of waiting a few weeks. He enjoyed ripping the tissue paper and eating his shoes, his shirt and the tags. I'm sad that we will have left Texas before his birthday so we won't have any friends around to celebrate with. Hopefully he won't be traumatized from the lack of a celebration. We will still give him a traditional, sugary frosted cake that he can make an utter mess with. And of course I will blog about it so you all can be a part of it.

Playing with the Ball Popper

2011-06-03T21:40:00.000-04:00

One of his favorite toys right now is this ball popper that I got him around Easter. Unfortunately, we often lose the balls for several days. Sometimes its Bryce's doing, but much of the time Olive bats them under the bed, sofa or refrigerator.

So I asked Bryce how big he was and I got the one arm- Guess he is feeling only half as big today.

Playing in the Pillows

2011-06-03T21:35:00.001-04:00

What started as a post-bath escape turned into a romp in the pillows. I guess thats one good thing about being in a hotel, lots of pillows.

Reading is Fun!

2011-06-03T21:30:00.000-04:00

Bryce is very much into reading (looking at) his board books, especially the ones that have flaps or sliders. He can enterain himself for quite a while now, which is nice.

Playing at the Park

2011-06-03T21:19:00.000-04:00

There is a park just a few blocks from our hotel. I've taken Bryce there a few times and he enjoys walking around on the bridges. I'm not too fond of the recycled, blue dyed tires they have on the ground because we both come home black with dirt. I've also gone running a few times in the quiet neighborhood. My goal this week is to run one last time on the Seawall before I leave Texas. Oh how I will miss my Seawall runs!

My free pair of running shoes (didn't have to pay tax either)! Buy 6 and get the 7th free...Although I don't need them just yet I had to get them before I left.

Showing off his walking

2011-05-27T20:53:00.000-04:00

Bryce found his paci! Who cares that it's attached to his daycare diaper bag.

My first trip to the zoo and haircut

2011-05-23T10:17:00.000-04:00

So I thought since Bryce was so interested in our cats that he might like the zoo a lot. I was wrong. He wasn't at all interested in the animals, although we didn't make it there until the afternoon and they were for the most part sleeping. He did enjoy watching the other kids get excited about the animals and playing with stroller wheels.

Bryce loves banging on things, but enjoyed watching the other kids play the drums more than doing it himself.

Oooh, stroller wheels! One of his favorite things right now. We have the stroller in the hotel room and he loves trying to push the stroller around (but I have the brake set).

He also enjoys spinning around in our office chair, so I thought he might like to ride on the carousel at the zoo. Nope, wrong again. He was scared to ride on the animals and so we had to settle on sitting on the bench, which was better, but did not enjoy it.

Bryce did like seeing Daddy when we got off!

I've been wanting to get his hair cut for some time. Lisa and I took him to Cool Cuts for kids for his very first trim. He really enjoyed sitting in that car. Actually too much, because he was yanking on the steering wheel so hard that the stylist couldn't cut his hair so we distracted him with a playstation controller.

Sorry you've got to turn your head, I can't figure out where I can rotate videos. Enjoy!

10 month videos

2011-05-22T21:45:00.000-04:00

Me trying to get Bryce to walk for the camera...yeah right

Good thing this isn't our dishwasher anymore

Peek A Boo! Bryce trying to get Kitty's attention and he could care less.

Playing in our hotel room. If you can catch make it out, Bryce says Olive at the beginning of the video. We are certain that his first two words are Olive and Kitty. He seems to clearly say their names when he sees them enter the room. So much for Mama and Dada.

I can't believe how well Bryce is walking now. Just within the few days I was gone to San Francisco for my conference, he became quite an expert at walking. He rarely crawls now and likes being chased.

If you have not already heard, we sold our house and are now living in a hotel room. While my parents were here we rented a UHaul and had moved most of our large items into a storage unit. I then left for the better part of a week for my interview in South Carolina and San Fran for a conference. Ryan's mom has been in town for the past two weeks and was a big help in finalizing the packing and moving the rest of our stuff into the storage unit or our temporary living situation. Without our families' help I am not sure we would have made it out in time for signing last Wednesday. Its been tight quarters since I returned with three adults, 2 cats and a baby in a one room hotel. At least its temporary.

Friday I sent off my signed offer letter to the Medical University of South Carolina to work with Dr. Paulos on T cell immunotherapies for cancer. I am excited to move on to the next stage of my career/life. I think Ryan is going to be much happier without the 16hr drive between Houston and North Carolina. We are in the process of looking for a rental house and daycare facilities. Right now my start date is July 1st and we will be moving June 9th.

I'm sad to be leaving all of our new friends at UTMB/TX. I'll miss you all!

Schlitterbahn and Packing

2011-05-22T21:17:00.000-04:00

My parents and Tanner were down for graduation. We went to Schlitterbahn waterpark for the day. Unfortunately, it was overrun with middle schoolers out on a field trip, but we had fun anyways. Bryce was a bit put off by the water initally but warmed up to it as the day progressed.

Bryce was very cute in his shark swimsuit!

Empty boxes are fun!

So are empty cabinets!

More photos

2011-05-22T21:15:00.000-04:00

My mentor had a going away party for me last month. As we were leaving, Bryce was introduced to stairs! He had a lot of fun going up (of course he had assistance going down). I can't believe how well he did.

My mom gave Bryce a fruit pop. Yummy!

Another sleeping photo. So cute!

The Drunken Sailor!

2011-05-15T10:51:00.000-04:00

Graduation

2011-05-13T14:07:00.000-04:00

Well a lot has happened since I last posted, so I'll break it down into a few posts because I can't get it all uploaded before my flight takes off for Cali. I officially graduated, my parents and brother came to visit, my mother-in-law has arrived, we have mostly moved out of our house, I went for a postdoc interview in S. Carolina and Bryce has started walking!

This video is of me getting hooded. I was disappointed to hear that we didn't get to keep the regelia. Although, I guess like my wedding dress, it wouldn't have as much impact the second time I wore it.

The graduating class of 2011

My Hood

My mentor Gregg Milligan and fellow labmate Alison

Our House Site

2011-04-27T11:50:00.000-04:00

Our house is for SALE!! Check out the link...although now we have an offer on it now!

http://search.har.com/engine/130-Bristol-Bend-Ln-League-City-TX-77539_HAR6950804.htm

Easter

2011-04-26T16:37:00.002-04:00

Ryan has been in NC and SC the last few weeks playing quite well. Yesterday he qualified for the Nationwide tour even in Georgia so he will be there this week before travelling home for my graduation.

We have big news...we got a cash offer on our house! It has only been on the market a week so it was quite surprising. Originally the buyers wanted us out by May 10th! After some negotiations we have settled on a price and plan on signing on May 18th, just after I return home from CA from a conference. This is inconvenient as I still don't have a job and we have no where to live. Hopefully my job interviews next month pan out and we will have a start date early in July. That still leaves us with a bit of time in limbo. I'll need to do some searching as to where we can live and where to store our stuff. I'd love to be able to use PODS as it would be much more convenient, but its quite a bit more expensive. Maybe I'll play the lottery and Ryan can play really well this week on tour. My family is coming into town for my graduation so we will have some help packing/moving if only I can figure some things out. It will be Tanner's 1st time to see our house (and I guess the last). Then Lisa is coming down to visit and volunteered her services as well. Yeah, I love visitors!

We also sold Ryan's 98 Nissan (240k miles)! I hope that it gives the girl who purchased it a break and continues running for another few years. Overall its been a good little car. I dont' know if I mentioned it but Ryan bought a 06 Honda Pilot. Much more comfortable for 16 hour trips to the East Coast.

So below are a few videos that I took of Bryce getting into his Easter Basket that the Easter Bunny brought. (I can't believe how annoying my voice is in them, I think I'll quit talking from here on).

The weather has been great here lately so Bryce and I have got to the park on many occasions. He loves swinging! And thinks its pretty funny when I swing along side of him.

I realized I hadn't taken any photos of him sleeping lately. He is so cute and peaceful. Bryce doesn't seem attached to any blanket or stuffed animal outside of the crib but he does like having them to snuggle with while he is in there.

They made bunny hats at daycare and of course Bryce ripped his off the second they put it on him to show me when I picked him up. After a little tape job I tried to get him to wear it just long enough that I could snap a photo, but it didn't happen. Here are a few attempts though.

Trip to San Antonio and Fredericksburg

2011-04-13T21:13:00.000-04:00

So we headed over to San Antonio to try and find wildflower fields for a few photo shoots. Well, with the drought we are having the flowers were few and far between. We did get to have dinner along the Riverwalk and then headed to Fredericksburg for shopping. The best wild flowers we found were near a church, but we did a few shots in a local park.

Bryce standing on his own! Today he was up to about 5 steps before he dove into my arms. It won't be long...

3 whole steps!

2011-04-05T22:53:00.000-04:00

Obviously we didn't get his first few steps on video so we tried for quite sometime yesterday to get him to do it again. But not with the same success. I've up loaded just a few of the videos we took. He sure seems to be really close, but who knows, maybe it will be another few months before he really starts walking.

(Pardon the mess in our entry, we are trying to clean so we can get the house on the market, so of course its even more of a disaster than usual.)

So we eventually resorted to getting him to walk around the table really fast!

New Photos

2011-03-27T20:15:00.001-04:00

Bryce finally has a tooth! Took me a few tries to get an actual photo of it because his tongue is always sticking out. Surprisingly, I didn't notice that he was more fussy than usual and his sleep patterns didn't change- thankfully for the both of us. Now we can finally say that all that drool and chewing on things is actually from his teething!

So I assume most everyone has already heard, but Ryan won his first tournament of the season on the Adams tour. He came from behind, so I was fairly surprised to see his name moving up the leader board last Sunday. Bryce got to celebrate with a little alcohol too.

Showing how cute he is in bunny ears.

In his St. Patrick's Day outfit. He has recently started bear crawling (on his hands and feet) when he is on the concrete or on the tile, usually when he is in shorts but not always. Yes, it is shorts weather here!

Month 9 Videos

2011-03-27T18:48:00.000-04:00

Steph got him some dinosaur squirties when she was here. The first time we tried to play with them he cried. I think he has warmed up them!

Recently Bryce has been watching shadows of himself and others. Here he is fixated on his spoon. Pretty cute.

Ryan caught Bryce talking to himself in the shower door reflexion. Wonder what he is telling himself...probably how handsome he is!

We were trying to capture him cruising around the table. When he gets to the corner he often stops momentarily to suck on the rubber protectors. We call them his bases...getting from 1st to 2nd etc.

But in this video he had discovered another target then my coke....no wonder the cats don't like him!

Again, finding something better to play with....

Bryce really likes to RIDE his alphabet train, he he

Baby Bryce- month 8

2011-03-14T19:54:00.002-04:00

Cutie Pie

So during the Superbowl there was a little puppy there that Bryce got quite a kick out of, especially when it play growled. He was a bit overwhelmed when the puppy crawled on him and licked his face.

He also had fun chasing around a remote control car

Say Cheese!

So we have these plastic bands that we bought for the cat to play with, well Bryce has found a few and enjoys carrying them around in his mouth! Silly boy.

Bryce in his sexy pose.

He got this choo choo train from our neighbor. Its fun for him to sit on, he can't push it around yet. So adorable.

My mom and sister came down for 'girls weekend' and we went to the rodeo and saw Keith Urban, Martina McBride, Rascall Flatts, and Lady Antebellum in concert, got mani/pedis, went shopping, went to NASA and ate lots of good food.

Bryce and Ryan came to the rodeo with us a few nights. Bryce got his photo taken on a horse and was able to pet a few farm animals in the petting zoo. He was quite intrigued.

Hanging out at the park!

A few videos

2011-02-17T18:05:00.000-05:00

Bryce isn't saying much, but he sure likes to use his tounge to spit and slobber. He has just recently started saying dadada and mamama, but its not yet directed towards us.

Bryce is getting very proficient at pulling himself up. He has always loved to stand, so we anticipated that once he could get around, he would quickly get good at this. Now he can walk a bit along objects too.

Bathtime! Bryce loves bathtime. I think he would splash away for hours if we let him. We have tried taking him into shower a few times, but he doesn't much like that.

Showing his climbing skills. I guess at daycare he loves to climb up onto their little stairs. We don't have any so while I was changing his sheets I'd see how he did. Not too shabby.

Another video of Bryce showing off his muscles.

8 months!

2011-02-15T18:08:00.000-05:00

As most of you know, I passed my dissertation defense last week and therefore I am an official doctor (of philosophy). I was terrified to give my oral defense, mostly because I have a great fear of speaking in front of others. Overall I think it went OK. The closed door portion went smooth and I was able to correctly answer/discuss the topics that were addressed. So now my job is to amend my written dissertation based on the comments of my committee and FIND A JOB.

Bryce is getting so big. I've have not been keeping up with the blog as I should (as other things have been on my mind), but I am finally updating you all. Bryce is crawling like a champ, pulling himself up easily on everything, walking along the table and sofa and is getting good at eating puff cereal. He still isn't talking as much as we had hoped and we can't get him to mimic us with clapping or waving. He loves to chase the cats around and get into their food. I've finally taken him out for a few jogs (that term is used loosely). My family got me a jogging stroller for Christmas but soon after it arrived Bryce got sick, then I got sick and then we had freezing temperatures for a while. I think finally we are in the clear for me to start putting in some miles on my BOB.

Ryan watched some Discovery Channel show on a 3 year old who was as physically developed as a 7 year old. I don't think Bryce has that genetic abnormality, but he is pretty strong. Here he is 'flying' like Superman.

I've been making him baby food for at home and then send Gerber food to daycare for easier storage. He has liked everything from Gerber and most everything that I have made for him except asparagus and chicken. Usually I can mix the chicken in with something else he likes and he will eat it right up. I think it is more of a texture thing for him. On this particular occasion Ryan was feeding him chicken mixed into his sweet potatoes and he was not happy! Thankfully he hasn't learned to spit things out that he dislikes. Enjoy!

Bryce loves to play with the Kitties.

Showing how well he stands

Playing in the box of toys shipped from Oregon. Where do I start?1

Getting ready for the Steelers game- so sad they lost!

Poor Bryce caught a cold the first week he went to daycare. He had several rough days. Ryan and I both got it and were quite miserable as well. I don't recall feeling that awful for so long. Guess this was the first of many illnesses to come. If only I could have been more productive at grad school and come up with a few more vaccines!

Daycare is going okay. So far Ryan has been taking him and picking him up. Bryce still isn't sleeping well there. At home we get him to take 2-3 good naps (1-2hrs), but at daycare he is either taking one 1 hour nap or 2 half hour naps! I know that all the activity is making it difficult but I'd just hoped by now he would get used to it. He is finally sleeping better at night, at least for him. He and I are only up twice a night now, once about midnight and then again about 4 for feed. If he wakes before then we let him fall asleep on his own. I think we will give him another month before we try and wean him of night time feedings. Hopefully he will do it himself.

Too many deaths recently. Ryan's golf coach, Mauro passed away last week and my Aunt Angie passed away this week. We don't know any details, but Mauro passed quickly after being diagnosed with cancer. Angela has been wheelchair bound and unable to feed herself since she had a severe infection a few years back. She quit eating a few days ago. I think it was a prayer that she resting with my grandparents now. I believe that there will be a service for her next week. RIP Mauro and Angie

Christmas 2010

2011-01-08T21:36:00.002-05:00

Bryce flying for his 2nd trip home. He did great and slept most of the time.

We started our trip in FG. Travelled over Mt Hood to stay in Prineville. Then to Sunriver. Back to Prineville. Back over the mountain to Corvallis. And Finished in FG again! With a few trips to Hillsboro, Beaverton Portland, West Linn, Bend and Redmond. Too much with a little one.

Oh, Grandma gets to hold me again!

Spoiled by Auntie Caitlyn and Uncle Andrew

Bryce- Which do I open first?!

Mom- How will we ever get this all home?!

Playing with Grandpa

Sporting his new cute hat made by Caitlyn's friend.

Bryce did well opening presents. Could undo a few bows and rip paper. Of course he usually like the ribbon, paper and boxes best.

Yummy, apple juice. Thanks Cait

Kisses from Grandma. And another homemade knit hat.

Uncle Marques, can we go outside now? I'm getting hot!

Jane and Marques at the ice rink

Family Photo

Uncle Tanner

True Texan? Or does he take after his mom and dislike the cold?

First time on his new Radio Flyer. Loved it, but will have to wait a year to get it to go.

Aunt Steph spoiled Bryce with lots of gifts

On a walk in Sunriver.

Visiting Grandma Lois who sadly passed on January 5th at 93. I was so glad to have seen and hugged her one last time, but sad to see her in that state. She had severe dementia and was very weak. I don't think she knew who any of us were, but she enjoyed seeing Bryce. I love you and will miss you Grandma.

Trying to get hand and foot prints of Bryce...emphasis on trying.

We got to visit a few of our friends in our Oregon tour. As usual I just wish we could spend more time with everyone and hadn't missed seeing those that we couldn't connect with.

Getting a tutorial by William on how to play with his activity seat.

Getting hugs from Great Aunt Nancy.

Bryce's admirers Hailey and Holy. Someday they will be great babysitters

The gang, with 2 additions from last Christmas.

Bryce's toys lines up once we got home. What do I choose? Oh, the cardboard box that wasn't supposed to be an option!

As stated in my previous post, we tried to 'wean' him off nighttime feedings. Well a few nights back in Oregon and we ditched all that we had worked towards. We were at my parents' small house and Bryce cried for about an hour straight and we gave in. So again, I have been getting up with him again. It could have been caused by the 2 hour time difference and the fact that he wasn't napping as well as he did at home. He had been a bit more fussy and may have had a mild cold. Now we are back in TX trying first to get him back to central time.

We went into the pediatrician when we got home and Bryce was a champ getting his vaccines. He is still in the 50th percentile in both height and weight, but is a bit advanced with his sitting, crawling and standing. During our trip home he has become very proficient at crawling (no more flopping) and is pulling himself up on us. He has been doing great with all of the foods we are giving him and is getting close to being mess free! I guess until we let him feed himself. The Dr. recommended that we start him on finger foods (which he wasnt' too sure about the first time) since he seems to have good hand coordination. She also suggested that we put off nighttime weanings for a bit longer since he is eating only 6oz of milk every 3 hrs during the day and is still spitting up. She thinks that he may still need the nutrition since he isn't heavier. Of course I was a bit saddened, I was enjoying the additional rest. We'll try again in another month, if he doesn't figure it out on his own.

Happy New Year all! I hope you all stick to your resolutions.

6 months!

2010-12-16T21:58:00.000-05:00

Well Bryce turned 6 months this week and also started crawling! Of course this coinsides with getting the tree up. I think that I keep saying this, but the time has been going by so FAST. Its been so much fun and I just love being a mother.
Until now, Bryce consistently gets up 2 or more times per night and I end up feeding him. He usually falls asleep just fine, but wakes in the night. Everyone keeps telling me that one day he will just magically sleep through the night. It hasn't come and we, well I, am tired of waiting, literally. Well Tuesday we decided to try tough love and let him cry himself back to sleep without feeding him and without picking him up. The first night he woke 3 times, 2 of which he easily went back to sleep with only light soothing, but the third was a bit tough on all 3 of us. He cried for 40 minutes! I was very close to giving in. Ryan did the hard part and checked on him every few minutes and to give him his pacifier, I just hid in the bedroom. We made it through the night and Bryce didn't hate us in the morning. I have to thank Ryan for being great. Hopefully this won't last long.

Bryce took his first baths within the big tub. He was splashing too much to be doing it on the counter anymore.

Sorry these are sideways, but they won't upload any other way. Bryce showing off his golf duds and how well he stands.

We walked to the park and Bryce got to go down the slide and swing for the 1st time. He had fun! Staying warm in Grandma Hase's sweater and hat- first time it was cold enough here in Houston

Oooh, Christmas lights. Bryce loves stareing at the tree. He and Olive 'helped' me put the lights on.

Ryan took Bryce to see Santa. He did very well and wasn't scared, but forgot to tell him what he wanted. Guess we have to wait until Christmas morning to find out.

Giving Thanks

2010-11-25T13:46:00.001-05:00

I feel so blessed to be where I am today. I have a happy, healthy baby and a wonderful husband. I can't believe Bryce is already 5 months. Time is flying. I'm trying to soak it all in, but it seems harder now that I've been going into work. My dad came to stay with us for a few weeks to take his turn watching Bryce so I could go into work. I'm getting closer, but still didn't finish writing. If only I had put in more effort a year ago. Guess hindsight is 20/20. I think since the last time I posted I had a manuscript published (Nelson manuscript) and am trying to complete one last experiment for another that needs to be resubmitted. Ryan had made it through the first stage of Q school, but not the second unfortunately. So he will be back playing on a mini tour again

Bryce has started a new trick-sticking out his tongue! Of course my dad taught him. One night Bryce and I were going back and forth sticking out our tongues and luckily we caught part of it on video. Enjoy!

Bryce now likes to drop toys now and watches us pick them up. Caught Ryan playing with Bryce after we cleaned him up after dinner.

Bryce was little monkey for Halloween. Quite a cutie if I do say so myself.

We all went to a Halloween party. Bryce is posing with Sara and Joanie. I won't show you Ryan and my slacker costumes (Ryan as a pro golfer and I as a cowgirl)

So while my Dad was in town we headed down to Galveston to see the Bike Rally. We fashioned Bryce a bit of hearing protection, but I'm not sure how well it helped. I was worried at first because Bryce cried a few times when the bikes reved their engines near us, but after a short while he settled in and actually slept a bit. His Jack Daniels bandanna was quite a hit with the bikers.

So Bryce is desperately trying to crawl, here he is sticking his butt in the air as a tripod.

Trying oatmeal for the first time. Not liking it as much as rice cereal.

Again showing how close he is to crawling. Right now he is able to turn in circles and scoot backwards.

So we had a bout of constipation, therefore we started Bryce on prune juice and pureed prunes. The first try was a bit tough, but he learned to like them and thankfully has pooped...and pooped and pooped some more. Bryce has now has sweet potatoes and carrots too, both of which he likes. Hopefully he won't end up as picky as Ryan.

I love his big eyes! Will they stay blue?

In the last few weeks we have been transitioning Bryce from the cradle in our room (the one my Dad made) into a crib in his room. He has been doing great taking his naps in there. Just realized I haven't posted photos of his room, so I'll try and get those up next post.

Kisses!

Thanks Grandpa Steve for coming to babysit for a few weeks.

Finally, I had to add the Merry Christmas shot. We got this adorable outfit from Declan, but realized the last time I cleaned out Bryce's dresser that it likely won't fit at Christmas. So I put it on him prematurely so we could get a few shots. So at 4.5 months old and 2.5 months early, Bryce is taking his first Christmas photos!

Bryce Moving and Shaking

2010-10-30T18:20:00.000-04:00

Bryce showing how close he is to sitting on his own

Bryce eating rice cereal for the first time. I think he enjoyed it!

He is a champ at rolling over now and started last weekend rolling over in either direction.

Having fun in his Johnny Jump Up. He can entertain himself for quite some time. Thanks Lisa for the fun toy!