Blue Skies for Everyone

Our First Christmas

2012-01-26T18:11:00.000-08:00

Hey Kellen, there is a fat man in a red jumpsuit who is going to bring you cool stuff once a year.

"I can't wait, I can't wait, I can't wait."

Liam holding in the pacifier with his guns.

Kellen is trying to figure out how to get that big dog into his mouth.

Liam unwrapping a gift at Aunt Sarah's house...he was far more interested in the paper than the gift.

Kellen is thinking "man, I thought I had a big head."

Liam and Kellen with Grandma and Grandpa.

Liam does bear a slight resemblance to Phil Collins, which is nothing to be so happy about.

Sorry boys, we thought those bear costume fleeces were funny...guess we were right.

Kellen and Grandpa

Delicious...Awful

Batman and Superman relaxing after a long night of fighting sleep.

Liam is a hoarder in training.

Cousins Ethan and Ryan with Liam and Kellen.

Waiting for our flight out of Chicago. Thanks for the stroller Aunt Sarah.

Getting ready to board the flight, Liam can hardly stand the excitement.

Kellen riding in the shopping cart for the first time.

Liam with his new pacifier - attached to a stuffed elephant.

Minor accident in the play-yard.

Enjoying an unseasonably warm January afternoon in TX.

Action Shots

2011-12-18T10:50:00.000-08:00

My name is Liam...

and I am addicted to my feet.

"You won't come and get me out...I am going to get out myself!" said Kellen.

Kellen: Please don't feed me that cereal. It is gross. I want my bottle!

Liam: Give me more! I am hungry!

Yep. I'm big.

Just hanging out.

Happy Halloween & 5 months old!

2011-11-02T06:56:00.000-07:00

Little Monsters on their way to school!

Liam's favorite spot. This is the only place he will eat over the last few days.

Liam had a pretty big 4th month! He had a big growth spurt and is up to 12lbs 8oz. and 21 inches long. He is still sporting the 0-3 month clothes but he can manage some 3-6 month onesies. He is is out of newborn pants but only because they are too short. He continues to move nonstop. He has an excellent grip and can almost put the pacifier in his mouth once he takes it out. He LOVES the work "Yeah!" It makes him laugh almost every time you say it. He also seems to love watching football already. Last weekend the TV was on and he was quite and content when a game was on and cried during commercials. It was pretty funny. He has also rolled from stomach to back quite a few times which makes doing tummy time difficult. He wants to be albe to sit BAD. He has some strong abs and is always trying to sit up in his bouncy chair. One downfall is he may have had an ear infection and had his first round of medicine but no one really knows for sure because he refused to hold still while the doctor looked in his ear. He continues to battle some conjestion which Dave and I think is because he may have some allergies. Another downfall...he really likes his thumb which is why we always have a pacifier close by! Lot easier to lose a paci than an thumb later on!

Ridiculous how big this kids eyes are!

Kellen is a pretty happy baby. He eats and sleeps like a champ. He usually sleeps through the night. He was 13 lbs. 13 oz. and 22 in long at his last appointment. He has only rolled from his back to stomach one time (yep that one time I was in the shower) and can easily roll from his stomach to back. He is enjoying tummy time more. He sucks on everything. His hands, your shoulder, your cheek, Liam's hands, his glow seahorse...you name it he is trying to lick it. He is also a random spit up master...usually right after I put a clean onesie on him in the morning...like as I am still buttoning it. So he is continuously dirty. Kellen also loves the TV. He will turn circles on the floor trying to get a good look at it and sometimes cries when he wants to watch it. Not great news. Kellen also wants to sit up on his own and probably will first as he is a little bit stronger than Liam but we will see.

Hope you all had a great halloween!

2 month Pictures!

2011-10-14T19:31:00.000-07:00

We just received the boys 2 month pictures! They turned out really great and can't wait to get some printed. I won't be posting them all but here are a few favorites!

Catching Up Pt. 1: 3 months!

2011-10-14T19:14:00.000-07:00

K&L turned 3 months in August and have been doing great! It was a busy month as Dave and I both went back to work full time, K&L went to daycare and school started! Everyone asks me if taking them to daycare was hard and while we didn't like it, Dave and I were both exhausted and welcomed the extra set of hands to watch the boys for a while! Going to work is much easier than being a stay at home parent that is for sure! So here is what is going on with the boys around the 3 month mark...

Mr. Big Eyes

Kellen is growing like a champ and is beginning to smile all the time. He also likes to lay on his side when he is sleeping. He is moving his legs and arms and is beginning to realize he has hands. His hands always seem to be in his mouth! He can suck on his hands so loud we hear him making a smacking noise 3 rooms away. He also seems to find the quietest time in church and starts smacking away. He is a pretty happy baby and only gets fussy when he is hungry or tired.

Kellen 3 month stats:

Weight: 12 ls. 7 oz

Height: 22 in.

*Percentile...well he is on the chart!

Liam...once again I can't get this picture to flip!

Liam had a rough 3rd month. He has been dealing with what is probably allergies for a while now but they came full force this month. He was really stuffy and congested and developed a nasty cough. At first they thought it might be a milk allergy so we had to change formulas. That didn't work THANK HEAVENS...that formula was twice as much as what they are currently on! It also made him lose a little weight for the week he was on it. Luckily he is back on the regular formula and seems to be doing better. The only bad part is that he got really used to sleeping in the bouncer-he couldn't really breathe laying down in bed-and we are now trying to break him of that. Even though he didn't feel great he still started smiling a lot. Liam is a MOVER! He never seems to be sitting still. I call him Mr. Wiggles. The only time he isn't moving is when he is asleep, and even then he moves a lot!

Liam 3 month stats:

Weight: 10lbs. 8 oz

Height: 21 in.

Percentile...he is getting closer to the chart!

Garrison (1 month), Myles (7 months), Kellen & Liam (3 months)

The boys have had a few adventures already. We traveled in August to a wedding. Dave was in the wedding so it we were a little concerned how the boys would be during the ceremony. Luckily they did well and we have great friends willing to be an extra hand. They didn't however make it through the reception. The music was just a little too loud. In September we traveled to Indiana for a few days. The boys were FANTASTIC on the flight, probably because we left so early in the morning and they are morning sleepers. However going through security with 2 newborns is NOT a good time. They did get to meet many of their cousins, aunts and uncles!

So that is an update on where they were at 3 months. Please excuse the numerous scratches they have on their face. I swear their fingernails grow faster than anything. I cut them every weekend and they still seem to find a way to scratch themselves!

We are still here...

2011-10-05T09:43:00.000-07:00

I realize that it has been quite a while since I updated. It has gotten quite busy since I have gone back to work. The boys are growing and just celebrated their 4 month birthday. I will post more on that later...I promise. When the boys were 2 months old we have their "newborn" pictures taken. The sneak peek we have gotten is fantastic and we are still awaiting the full CD. It has taken a little while but if you haven't already seen them you can see the sneak peek too! I really hope to update the blog with their 3 & 4 month pictures and stats this weekend so stay tuned!

Butterfly Chaser Photography

2 Months

2011-08-04T16:09:00.000-07:00

It is hard to believe that Kellen and Liam are 2 months old! They have grown so much it is hard to believe it has been such a short time. They had their 2 month check up and they continue to impress our Doctor. They did have their shots and they (and mom and dad) did pretty great. There was a short bit of screaming but they are tough guys and recovered pretty quickly. They slept great the rest of the day after a dose of tylenol which was great for us. Highly suggest if shots are needed as late in the day as possible is great for a good night's sleep. We did have a few bouts of vomiting but that is still a regular part of our life...it happened to me today (not great when you are still struggling with clothes that fit and you find something for the day and then someone pukes all over it). So here are the current stats for the boys as of their 2 month appointment which was almost 2 weeks ago so they are even bigger!

Kellen

Weight: 10 lbs 3 oz

Height: 20.5 inches

Head: 37.4 cm

Kellen is getting so big. He is in 0-3 month clothes and has been out of newborn diapers for a while now. He is awake a lot and his eyes are HUGE! He loves to be held upright so he can see over your shoulder or facing forward. He is a pretty mellow kid until he is ready to eat.

Liam

Weight: 8lbs 6 oz

Height: 19 inches

Head: 36.4 cm

Liam has such a sweetness to him. He always looks at you like you are his best friend but with the intensity you have when you are meeting someone new. He absolutely loves to be held but will let you know when he needs a break. He is still in newborn clothes but not for much longer and we are probably finishing our last pack of newborn diapers before he moves up to the next size. He is a little guy but I think he is a bit taller because he would not unbend his legs when he was getting measured--strong legs!

We are working on tummy time. They don't seem to mind it for short spurts of time especially Kellen. They make a lot of funny faces when they on their stomach and they are getting stronger. Kellen is stronger than Liam and is able to scoot all around while he is exercising (mainly from the fabric he was on...I don't think he would have had as much success on carpet!) and Liam quietly moves his head from side to side to look at different things-he seems to always be in his little world gazing at all the fuzzy images he sees.

Liam during tummy time.

Kellen at the end of tummy time...he is minutes from screaming so someone would flip him over!


Such big boys! One of the best pictures so far-even though they aren't looking at the camera!

Next week we start the 2 week transition back to work and into daycare. Should be loads of fun. Not really but it has to happen eventually. Hopefully they (along with mom and dad) will handle the adjustment well!

Rub a Dub Dub Two Boys in the Tub

2011-07-24T15:40:00.000-07:00

We are lucky. Liam and Kellen both love the bath. They love the warm water and I think they really love being naked for a while. At least I would...a diaper looks incredibly uncomfortable, bulky, and hot, especially as hot as it is here in Texas. They are really calm and relaxed after the bath and don't mind being a bit cold as they get dried off and covered in lotion. I will say that that whoever is stuck going second doesn't love it as much at first. The seat is wet and cold as I switch out kids. The best I can do is put a warm wash cloth underneath! We aren't at the point of bath toys or really lounging in the water-wet babies are slick and really they don't have much control over their bodies yet. They are getting stronger though!

You can see how cold Liam is in this picture with all those little veins. Poor kid...he really doesn't have much body fat!

Kellen however has a lot more body fat. Look at those cheeks!

By the way...I didn't use the same towel on them. These were taken at two different bath times. I swear! They are so much cuter when they are CLEAN! Every morning they have a formula mustache!

Funny Faces

2011-07-22T07:27:00.000-07:00

This shot of Liam makes Dave and I laugh every time we see it. Dave blows on his face to try and wake him up and this is the face he makes. It is hilarious.

I would write something but someone is crying...

2011-07-12T08:44:00.000-07:00

Brotherly Love

One Month...the time flies

2011-07-03T20:04:00.000-07:00

So, I agreed to do a quick blog post in Jenny's stead...these days we have to divide and conquer tasks, so actually I was told that I had to create an entry. Apologies in advance for inappropriate references.

This past week we celebrated the one month birthday of the boys. The celebration consisted of feeding, burping, changing diapers, and begging them to go to sleep for more than 30 consecutive minutes. It was a real hoot, as the picture shows.

Since the last post the major accomplishments include: Kellen grasped a pacifier with his hand, took it out of his mouth and held if for like 10 seconds. Liam has started to burp a little bit, which is nice because the gas might be under control soon. Both have begun developing their sense of humor, as they have both found that a ripping good time can be had by urinating, defecating, or vomiting on mom, dad, or anyone else who happens to be within range. Liam even threw up on Kellen's face, which was quite a site to behold. The biggest accomplishment for mom and dad was learning the proper use of a rectal thermometer, including dealing with the inevitable valve release following the temperature taking.

The boys have also started to develop a sibling rivalry. It seems like anytime they are within an arms reach of each other they start hitting and kicking each other. It is pretty funny now, but I'm sure that will lose it's charm. Today, Uncle Jed put down Liam next to Kellen, both of whom were sleeping. Within a couple of seconds, Kellen smacked Liam, which is a pretty remarkable reaction time for a sleeping baby. What an angel.

The party goes on until the feeding is done.

Kellen falling asleep while getting burped.

Liam peacefully sleeping after a feeding...moments before he vomits on himself.

Kellen doing his favorite activity - staring off into space.

Family photo...it's impossible to get both boys awake and looking at the camera at the same time.

So, we are looking forward to the end of the month when the boys will get their shots and we can take them out of the house. We are all a little stir-crazy and will surely benefit from visiting the world outside our house. We have a lot to show them and can hardly wait!

A Day in the Life of Kellen & Liam...

2011-06-25T14:30:00.000-07:00

Liam and Kellen have been busy...growing! We went to the doctor last week and Kellen weighed in at a hefty 6lbs 8ozs and Liam was at 5lbs 9ozs. You might be wondering how it is that they have gotten so fat so here is what the day looks like for these boys...we are currently trying to eliminate a night feeding so this schedule is a bit different than the last few weeks.
8am: Food
9am: Diaper change followed by sleep
10:45am: Kellen wakes up screaming like we have never fed him before (this is true for each feeding)
11am: Food
Noon: Diaper change, wash down, change of clothes, temperature check (not the most fun part of the day) followed by sleep
2pm: Food
3pm: Diaper change followed by sleep
5pm: Food
6pm: Diaper change followed by sleep-though they may be encouraged to stay awake after this one!
8pm: Food
9pm: Diaper change and mom and dad pray they will go to sleep!
Midnight: Food
1am: Diaper change and please, please, please sleep
4am: Food
5am: Diaper change and again please go to sleep!

The last few days the boys have been asleep pretty much all day and then wide awake at night. We hope this doesn't last long! But either way the boys are doing well. Liam is a little fussy with some gas and Kellen seems to be hungry all the time! There are lots of smiles while sleeping and when awake they are looking all around to take in the lights and sounds they hear. Here are a few pics (I'll be honest w/ 2 babies it is hard to find the 3rd hand to hold the camera and take pictures!).

Kellen smiling for the camera.

One of Liam's favorite spots...the vibrating bouncer. It is amazing to see how his face shape has changed so much since he was born! He doesn't look like an old man though he can still look like Yoda every now and then.

Hanging out together in luxury. They almost look the same size but don't be fooled...Kellen has a pound on Liam.

Look who is 2 weeks old!

2011-06-14T17:41:00.000-07:00

What a crazy time it has been since May 30! The boys are FANTASTIC and came home last week! So since I am a bit exhausted here is a run down of just how fantastic they are..

Friday, June 3: Jenny & Dave home from the hospital. Hard to leave without those boys.

Thursday, June 9: Kellen and Liam are HOME! We were shocked when we went for the NICU visit on Wednesday and the doctor said we could bring them home after our overnight visit! I thought Kellen would be home first but didn't think it was going to happen that week and when she said Liam was coming home too...the best news! Though I really did NOT think I would be bringing home a baby less than 4 pounds! Their departing weight (taken on Wednesday night) was Kellen 4lbs 13oz and Liam 3lbs 12.5oz.

Friday, June 10: 1st doctor visit...Kellen was 5lbs 1oz and Liam was 4lbs. They LOVE to eat! A big weight gain in about 2 days.

Tuesday, June 14: 2nd Doctor visit...Kellen 5lbs 9oz and Liam 4lbs 9oz. HUGE weight gain! The doctors hope that they gain an ounce a day but these guys are gaining 2 ounces a day!

So as you can see they are just doing so well. Dave and I (along with my mom who is here) are doing well too. Tired of course but couldn't be happier than when we are with these little guys. They are already starting to show their personalities. Liam loves to look at you and everything around you including looking at the lights. He is starting to get round in the face as he gains his weight. Kellen...is impatient. He really likes to eat right when he wakes up and gets a little cranky when he has to wait for his food (a little like his father...). He is a sleeper and often will fall asleep as he is eating. Here are a few pictures of the boys...

Home from the hospital. Fell asleep in an instant during the 5 minute car ride home!

Mimi and the boys. (Kellen on left, Liam on right...sleeping...)

We came in to check on them and this is what we found. Unswaddled and no longer side by side.

Obviously Kellen is too cool for the camera.

Double feeding...need to get better at this! Not too bad for a first try.

Dad is tired.

Welcome Liam & Kellen!

2011-06-07T05:52:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the world! Kellen on Left, Liam on Right

Just before midnight on May 30, 2011 we welcomed our boys! Kellen Flint and Liam Flint McIntosh. They are still in the NICU but are making wonderful progress as they just celebrated their one week birthday. So let me stop writing and give you what you really want...pictures!

Hanging out in the crib ready to eat!


Kellen Flint McIntosh Born 11:56pm, 4lbs 8 oz 16 1/2 inches (One week old)


Liam Flint McIntosh Born 11:58pm 3lbs 10 oz 16 1/2 inches long (One Week Old)


Liam and his giant eyes! He makes some of the best faces and this is my favorite!

As I said they are doing fantastic! They have been in the NICU since they were born but have only been on monitors and never on an IV, oxygen, feeding tube or anything. They are really holding their own and are fantastic eaters! We hope that they are home soon! They were moved to an open air crib which is one of the big steps they need to take to get closer to home. They need to continue to consistently gain weight, which they are, and then they can come home. Kellen will likely be home before Liam as Liam has a bit more weight to gain. It is amazing to see what just one pound can do!

Dave and I are doing well. It is a busy schedule right now as we make multiple trips to the hospital each day. Along with me having a bit of a slow recovery (seems postpartum has been much harder than my entire pregnancy!),we are exhausted but completely overjoyed with these little guys and can't wait until they are home.

Nursery...a work in progress

2011-05-28T11:21:00.000-07:00

The boys will be here soon so we (DAVE) has been hard at work to get it all together. We have the basics all in but since bedrest has started the details are still a work in progress. They can sleep, eat, and chill so I think they are covered for a little while.

So if you remember here is the before...

And here is the current state of the nursery...though Dave put together the stroller so it is taking up quite a bit of space in there right now!

2 cribs! No rush on the 2nd mattress as they are sleeping together for a while!

As you can see we went with the brighter green aka Kermit the Frog...actually I think it is called Scottish Isle. It feels a lot like a kids room but at the same time with all the wood has an earthy feel too.

Glider and Changing Table. There will be navy curtains sometime soon.

Hopefully there will be more splashes of colors coming in with the green and navy.

Dave's closet and dresser...and a lovely view into the kitchen! :)

Shelves...just need a few things to put on them.

So there is the start of the nursery and probably all that is going to happen until after they get here other than the smoke detector. Hopefully the pictures give you a little glimpse into where the boys will be hanging out!

34 Weeks!

2011-05-26T18:25:00.000-07:00

We arrived at Week 34 today! Hooray! This is great as we think we will be able to make it to Week 36 which for twins is full term. Most twins arrive by that week so we are so excited that they are still in there cookin'. I spent a week on moderate bed rest and have upgraded to full bedrest. That means I get to sit around and do nothing except for 2 hours a day which means I can make my own meals, take a shower, and go to the bathroom. Yep that is about it. I am able to work from home so I don't have to waste all of my sick and vacation time before they get here. It does seem to be working as my blood pressure was down today and less swelling-except for the hands. They kinda feel like 80 year old arthritic hands not so great. One of the reasons blogging hasn't been as regular...

Here is a bit more info about everyone's progress...

Twin A is 4 lbs 12 oz and head down
Twin B is 4 lbs 2 oz and jammed into my ribcage...not comfortable
Both have hair :)
B's head is right at A's rear...lovely start to brotherly love
They are still kicking and punching
Weight Gain: 40lbs. Not sure it will be much more as it has pretty much stayed the same the last couple of weeks
Stomach measured at 39 weeks today
Jenny's cravings: none (actually getting a little more picky)
Dave's cravings: Popsicles

Week 34

More to come regarding the Shower by Mail and the Nursery...just a little slow these days!

Full Bedrest...

2011-05-20T13:39:00.000-07:00

starts tomorrow...

All is Swell

2011-05-11T12:14:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone! Sorry for the delay in the blog posting but we have been busy! Dave finished painting the nursery, we cleaned it, and added in most of the furniture. It is really coming together but there are a few more things to go before I share pictures. I am sure you are all anxiously wanting to know what color paint we chose!

Everything is going pretty well but the signs of pregnancy are starting to increase a bit and becoming a bit more difficult. The main issue is this...

Please excuse the peeling nail polish. I can't reach and they will have to wait until the next pedicure which may not be for a while since I don't think the hot water or massage will feel too great as swollen as they are!

Those would be my feet barely fitting into my flip flops. I didn't do much on this day but sit at my desk with feet up. They look like sausages with a nice tight casing. My hands are a little better but really they look like hotdogs.

Along with the swelling come the concern about my blood pressure as it was getting high last week. We go again on Friday and every week from here on out. There is a chance of bedrest at any point because of the blood pressure. The doc is guessing we won't make it much beyond Week 35. We start week 32 tomorrow if you are counting! They will be here very soon!

Here is your updated picture. For fun the doctor measured my belly and if I was having one we would be measuring at the 37.5 week mark! We also had an ultrasound last week and it is estimated that A is 3lbs 6oz and B is 3lbs 3oz. I am sure they have added weight this week as my belly looks and feels bigger than last week. Hopefully they will keep on growing!

Week 31, 5 days

I should also mention that my face is just as round as my belly...you just can't tell in a profile shot! Have a great weekend everyone!

Week 30

2011-04-30T07:16:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone! Sorry I haven't posted it a while. I have had a cold this week along with it being the last week of classes. SO...it has been a very busy, exhausting week! Here is the latest photo. As you can see I am outgrowing my shirts as this one is stretch to the max!

Week 30

We have the last growth ultrasound this week (I think) to make sure they are where they should be. They will be here soon-anywhere from 6-8 weeks. At least I hope they can stay in there that long. Doc says most twins deliver between 32 and 36 weeks...I really hope it is closer to the 36 weeks or even 38! We will see. Until then I suppose we should continue to get moving on that nursery!

Hope you all had a great Easter weekend. I think I kept my Lent goal. Last Sunday was great for Dave as he was able to have his sweet treats again. I think he ended the day at 6 ice cream sandwiches, at least 4 candy bars, animal crackers, and a Popsicle or 2. He was a happy guy that day and is now back on his running/biking today so he can do it all over again!

Hello Summer, did you happen to pass Spring on your way in?

2011-04-20T18:30:00.000-07:00

I am not sure I will ever get used to how there are only 2 seasons in Texas-summer and not summer. I love summer but every now and then it is nice to have Spring weather...including the rain that usually comes with it. We need rain BAD here in Texas! I can't remember the last time it rained but hopefully we will get some soon...preferably not on a day I have to walk around campus but I will take what I can get. So if you feel up to it...do a little rain dance for us down here! Thanks!

we heart it

Nursery Before

2011-04-19T06:55:00.000-07:00

Dave has really started to get to work on the nursery...which is probably a good idea as we get closer and closer to meeting these little guys. The room is not to big but we will definitely miss the space. It has been Dave's office/mancave since we moved in and he has had to move things all around the house though we are still not sure where some things will be going yet! Here are some pictures and you can see we are starting to accumulate some stuff (we also have a crib and glider...just not in the room)!

Notice the bobblehead collection...think they should stay or go someplace else?

If you can't tell from all the stuff there is a changing table and dresser in there...along with diapers, clothes, and other little goodies.

Dave has started to prepare for painting as you may see by some of the tape. I think the prep might take longer than the painting! There are 2 giant windows and 3 doorways in this room. Oh the old houses...so much character but also some weird stuff...3 doorways to one room-granted one is a closet but still!

Here you can see the paint options we are toying with for the nursery. Not sure which direction we will go yet but it won't be the one on the top. That was our first option and it is terrible. So what do you think? From left to right...

Option 1: I can't remember the name of this one so we will just call it Sensational Sage

Option 2: Moss

Option 3: Scotland Isle (or as Dave put it Kermit the Frog smeared on the wall)

What's your vote?

Baby Shower!

2011-04-17T15:19:00.000-07:00

My office loves a party (who doesn't love cake and punch) and threw Dave and I a baby shower last week. They were all very generous and gave us one of the cribs along with some other items. My boss, Laura, was kind enough to make the boys quilts! She also made Dave a monkey bag (he loves monkeys) a few weeks ago and I think I might be stealing it. It is a great bag! The quilts are adorable and I can't wait to watch who favors which one. I know it will be one of their favorite things...it's already one of mine!

Thank you Laura and the rest of the office!

The shower was entertaining to watch as Dave and I opened gifts. He knew what a few things were but there were a few moments of confusion. He opened a thermometer and proudly said, "I know where this goes!" and then he read the package and realized that for babies it can go in multiple places. He didn't like that so much. After the thermometer we then opened a bottle cleaner. He didn't have a clue what it was and said, with horror on his face, "I don't know where that goes." After a lot of laughter from me and the audience, we told him it was to clean bottles, not babies. Let's just say he was relieved. This is a glimmer into the many stories we will have as we raise these two boys!

28 Weeks, 4 Days

2011-04-16T17:45:00.000-07:00

I haven't been doing so well on the blogging this past week so you may see a lot of posts over the next few days to catch up! Sorry on the delay in the picture but here is the latest!


Issues with this picture! But since the most comfortable position is horizontal...I am just going to go with it!

All is still great. Officially passed the glucose test. Iron still low (boo) and these boys are MOVING! They kept me up all night a few days ago because they would not stay still. My stomach is moving a lot and it is a little creepy. They only seem to calm down when Dave touches my stomach, so he has missed some of the really big movements. I think I am feeling their heads which means they might have their father's giant head...not exactly what I was hoping for!

Twinkie Update

2011-04-09T09:57:00.000-07:00

Just a quick update to let everyone know that the babies are looking good. We have had 2 doctor appointments in the last week but really not much to report...

Twin A has moved around and is now breech. He was head down so I guess there is still plenty of room to move in there...which honestly is shocking! He is the smaller of the two right now and the least active from what I can tell...but who knows there are pokes all over the place! According to the ultrasound he is in the 50 percentile. Doctor very happy.
Twin B is still sideways and they seem to be butting heads with one another. He is in the 60th percentile and lets me know when he is not liking me laying on my right side...which is all the time. Too bad for him it is the most comfortable position!
I had my glucose test on Thursday and it wasn't terrible. I didn't react to strongly to the wonderful orange drink and the doctor hasn't called so I am assuming everything is good!
Total weight: 30 pounds. Still a bit more to go but again the Doctor was happy.
Belly Circumference: I am not interested in knowing! :) I have nightmares I will be bigger around than I am tall so I won't be gathering that stat!
Shot. Yep I got another. I was on progesterone at the beginning so really I am used to them. It is just a one time shot due to my O negative blood type. If the babies are the same as I am I won't need another if they aren't I will get another in the hospital.That's what you get for having the rare blood type...a shot.

Picture later...my photographer isn't home right now! Can you believe we are in the 3rd trimester?! It has gone so fast!

"You're Carrying Big"

2011-04-05T18:19:00.000-07:00

If you have been reading you know that Dave and I have been looking for a new car. Dave has been doing all the negotiating with our new friend Ron and I recently met him when we went to test drive. He asked when I was due and that was his response, "You're carrying big." Not something you should say to a pregnant lady. (I also was asked today if I was carrying a basketball under my shirt or if there was a baby. I let that slide too as I know he was referencing the Lady Ags in the Women's Championship tonight. Go Ags!) Luckily I am not easily offended so I simply said "Well there are two in there!" As it turns out I really liked Ron so he was forgiven and we gave him our business...finally. It has been something as we had to wait on the house refinance which was MUCH more difficult than it needed to be. After what seemed like forever we said goodbye to Cecil Civic tonight...

Cecil Civic '02 96,000 miles

He has been good to us. He had a few bumps and bruises but never had a problem in the 8 years that Dave drove him. He has been everywhere! He has been across the US from New York to Seattle (and back) and Texas to Canada. And Dave and his brother Jed both learned to drive a stick on him. While there weren't any major bumps...it was about to have one. The clutch was going to give out at any moment...hopefully Ron will forgive us for that one! So we are happy to introduce the newest member of the family...the Honda Pilot.

Honda Pilot, '11 19 miles

We now have a car that Dave and both car seats will fit in comfortably! So yes we are "carrying big". We are still working on her name. I like Penelope, Pippy, or Petey. Dave, as inappropriate as he is, toyed with Poncius. Wrong. Not going to be the name. So if you have any name suggestions...please share!

26 Weeks

2011-04-01T11:19:00.000-07:00

Week 26

We just crossed week 26 and are quickly heading into week 27 which means we are approaching the 3rd trimester. As this shirt really shows I have a pretty big belly. They are moving A LOT lately which is great but a little distracting at times. We had our 2nd measuring ultrasound this morning which by the way the tech said that I did NOT actually have to drink all that water since it was our second one...grrrrr. The boys (definitely 2 boys by the way) are doing pretty well. Twin A decided he didn't like facing down and is now has his head in my ribcage and Twin B is still hanging out sideways. Hopefully they will get into a better position before they can't move around anymore or else we will for sure have a c-section! A is around 3 oz smaller than B but both are hovering just below 2 pounds which is pretty good. We meet with the doctor again next week and the doctor's appointments will be around every 2 weeks from here on out. So there is your baby update...and I am off to the bathroom...again.

The Terrible Two's: Hostess & Little Debbie

2011-03-30T15:02:00.000-07:00

I work with college students. They are hard to feed on a budget so often times my office is filled with not so healthy food. Usually it leaves my office pretty quickly so it isn't a temptation but not always. Currently this stash of goodies has been in my office for about 2 months.

I did well for a while until Spring Break hit and I was pretty bored in the office. I broke. I stole (and replaced) a box of Little Debbie Star Crunch and in the past 2.5 weeks I have eaten them all except one. I am sure that last one doesn't have much longer to live. These need to get out of here! I really don't have much control when it comes to these two devils so I rarely buy them-twinkies, oatmeal cream pies are really the best ones if you ask me. They are a treat that I try to make last a very long time. So before you decide to send a care package to this pregnant lady, please DO NOT include any of these guys. I may want them but I will be thankful that I didn't eat them around July!!

And yes two blog posts today...I was a little off and need to get back to the Lent goal!

The Future?

2011-03-30T08:40:00.000-07:00

I wonder if this is what my house will be like in the future...

What ever happened to the Electric Car?

2011-03-28T11:18:00.000-07:00

Look what we found during our trip to Austin the weekend...

Yes...that would be a parking spot for an electric car and a "fuel" pump to charge while you are shopping! If we could I think Dave and I would have an electric car but since they have yet to make one that will fit our family...and possibly me at this point...we won't be getting one anytime soon.

So here is an OK belly pick at Week 25ish. Yep...I am huge. All is going well though my feet are starting to hurt after being on them for a while. While we were in Austin this past weekend we bought a glider and a rug so we are slowly accumulating all the stuff we think we need for the boys (turns out one of my sisters didn't love the twinkies reference-though they are one of my vices that I give into every once in a while-they are delicious if you don't think about what is in them and the fact they are probably on disaster list because they last a long time). We still have a ways to go but we will get there. We did start a childbirth class last week and that really is a whole post on its own. It is helpful and interesting after one class so hopefully it continues. We get a second level 2 ultrasound this week to measure their growth so hopefully they aren't too far behond. They are kicking, mostly after meals, but it seems to be slowing down a bit so my guess is they are running out of room in there. Also on the horizon...the dreaded glucose test. Hopefully it won't be too bad and I will pass with flying colors!

Dreaming of...

2011-03-23T08:06:00.000-07:00

we heart it

a day of sand between my toes, warm sunshine on my skin (with sunscreen of course), ocean waves crashing in the background as i nap, and a pedicure at the end of the day. anyone want to join me?

March Madness

2011-03-19T11:53:00.000-07:00

It's here! Dave has been getting so excited about this weekend as it is his favorite weekend of the year! 32 college basketball games...what sports fan isn't in heaven this weekend!

we heart it

Oh wait, that could be Dave. We booked a few projects for the house for Thursday last week because we knew Dave was planning to be home to watch the games (and we really needed to get some of these things done before the twinkies arrive. He thought he could watch the games while all the work was being done. Well...we live in a house that is 80 years so there were bound to be a few issues. When we had the front door replaced what is usually about a 3 hour job became a 10 hour job!

Many of the projects you can't see but here they are...

Foundation repair...one of the beams was rotten (I guess you can expect that after 80 years) and needed replaced. It isn't good when you can stand in the dining room and bounce like you are on a diving board.

There will be a 2nd phase to this project as it needs to extend below the back room that was added on

2 new ceiling fans...they are already making a difference since it is getting into the 80's
1 new outdoor light
plumbing issue in kitchen & laundry room

there turned out to be a gas leak in the water heater so we had to get a new one of those too!

dryer vent replaced
capped off a gas line

Somehow they were done by about 6pm that day and Dave barely was able to see any of the games. Hopefully he can spend a little time watching the rest of the weekend! Not that it matters but both of our NCAA brackets are a mess. Boo!

Lent is a Great Time to have a Lentil Burger

2011-03-18T17:22:00.000-07:00

Lentil burgers are a vegetarian treat! I know you are thinking...that sounds gross but I have always loved them. We occasionally had them growing up (they are SUPER cheap) and I was the only one other than my mom that would actually eat them in our house--there were a lot of PB&J sandwiches or bowls of cereal on those nights. It is one of the things I used to make regularly when I was a vegetarian and now I make them a couple of times during Lent. I still at times prefer these to a regular hamburger.

Dave will try anything and he did try one once when we were in Indiana and surprisingly he liked them! I was a little shocked but usually if I tell him it is healthy he will give it a good try. I should also mention that when we do make them at my mom and dad's house everyone "just wants a bite" so I think their taste buds are coming around.


Delicious!

Should anyone wish to try it...here is my version of the recipe!

Lentil Burgers

1 cup dry lentils

1/2 cup rice

3 cups water

Add some salt, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano or any italian spices you want to throw in (I don't really measure!)

Bring all to a boil, cover & reduce heat and cook until water has been absorbed. You should be able to easily mash the lentils when they are done.

Remove from heat and let cool.

Add about 1 cup of bread crumbs and 2 eggs, along with a bit more of the above spices.

The dough should be sticky and a bit moist. Make into patties and cover in wheat germ.

Bring 1/4 inch of oil to a medium high temperature and cook until golden on both side and warm in the center. They are delicate so be careful as you flip!

I like mine with a slice of provolone cheese, ketchup and some onion. Delicious and filling! Let me know if you give them a try!

When the students are gone...I do kinda miss them

2011-03-15T17:32:00.000-07:00

It's Spring Break in Aggieland! The sun is shining, traffic is light, plenty of places to park, and the students are gone! This is my first Spring Break since living in College Station that I am actually here. Usually my colleagues and I are carting 60+ students to Europe. I was lucky to go to London twice and Paris once. We have been facing some cuts at TAMU and the trip was one of those cuts...at least for a minute. Turns out we received some funding and will be taking a group to Paris in May. I won't be a part of that trip sadly but I am sure these two little rugrats will be more fun and exciting than enjoying Paris in the Springtime.

Palace of Versailles, March 2009

However right now...campus is way too quiet. I like the break from students but it makes for some boring office time. I am getting caught up on some paperwork but really that can get old after a while. I love working with students. You never know what you are going to help a student through that day, what crazy questions you will answer, how students will make you laugh, and the nutty stories they share with you (whether you want them or not). I have been so lucky to work with so many fabulous students throughout my career and here at Texas A&M is not different but I can honestly say they have probably taught me the most.

It is a very diverse group of students so my "student lens" has changed a lot as I learn more about their lives, their success and hardships, and how hard students work to make it through a great deal of adversity. I particularly have loved learning about all the cultures! I have students from Mexico, Columbia, Guatemala, Chile, Venezuela, China, Vietnam, Nigeria, and the US just to name a few. A lot of my students speak English as their second or even third language. I am amazed at their success when in some cases they have only known English for 3-4 years. They are so smart! So while I will enjoy them being gone for the week...I will be excited to have them back on Monday!

A few of the Cushing Group...some of them have been with me since they were freshmen!

And a few Gaines Mentors!

As a follow up to my last blog...I should mention that Dave does help with the dishes every night. I like to wash more than put away. Since I will be relying on him so much in the next few months, I am trying to do as much as I can. Believe me...his time will come!

Week 23

2011-03-14T15:58:00.000-07:00

We went to the doctor last week and everything seems to be going great with me and the boys. The boys are kicking and pulling but aren't super active which is nice just a reminder every now and then that they are there. They seem to be most active when Dave is not around which is not so much fun for him. One of them is VERY close to my bladder. Everytime I move I feel like I have to go to the bathroom. Twin A is head down and probably will stay that way, the other is still sideways. Other than getting tired really easy and a backache I am doing well! The big piece of great news was that the doctor was really optimistic about them making it until June! YEAH! I will be miserable but the longer they are in there the better. Cross your fingers!

I didn't think I had put on much weight before this appointment and I was right only about 4.5 pounds in the last month. Luckily the doc said it was fine just try to focus on gaining one pound a week and we will be in good shape. Not sure we are going to get to that 50 pound mark but we will see! I wish I had a few cravings to help that out but unfortunately not so much. Our doc took a measurement just for the fun of it and it looks like I am measuring at 30 weeks when we were only about 22 1/2 along. So...I am big as you can see. Hopefully they are too. They get another measuring ultrasound at the end of the month. And hopefully we will get that added confirmation that Twin B is a boy! I think it is but I would like one last reassurance since it was so difficult to see the first time and our most recent appointment. He just doesn't want to show his business!

Week 23

Since I am carrying around a beach ball I have realized a few things that are getting more difficult...

Tying my shoes. I really need for the weather to warm up so I can begin to live in my flipflops.
Washing dishes. I am short and my arms aren't long and my belly is right at sink level. Water everywhere. On me, on the floor, on the counter...everywhere.
Reaching anything above the 2nd shelf in the kitchen. I couldn't reach much before but the added six inch difference to how close I can get to the cabinet makes everything a little more out of reach.
Getting out of bed. One I am tried but two it is like trying to sit up with one of those medicine balls on your stomach.
Stairs. I really don't take them. I now park on the side of the parking garage with the elevator. A little further walk but I would rather walk than climb stairs!
Honda Civic. Dave loves that car but it is getting a bit more challenging to get in and out of. But I am letting him enjoy it as long as he can since he won't have it for much longer. We will be trading in for something longer as he and the car seats don't currently fit in either car at the same time right now. Small problem.

So there is your baby update. We are still working on names and getting the nursery together. We have a long way to go! Perhaps the next post will be the before..since it only has a car seat and a dresser in it!

By the way my blogging week is from Wednesday to Wednesday for those of you who will hold me accountable to this goal!

Lent

2011-03-12T08:52:00.000-08:00

Wednesday was Ash Wednesday which begins the Lent season. While I am not Catholic, Dave is so I usually try to do something or give up something. Afterall, it isn't a bad idea to sacrifice something or attempt to do something to not only better yourself but to also observe an important part of your faith, whatever that may be.

So, Dave has decided to give up sweets. This is a big one for him because he has a major sweet tooth on the weekends and he usually has animal crackers during the week for dessert (I get out of making Monster Cookies for a little while longer!). Obviously I won't be doing anything having to do with food including no meat on Fridays this year.

we heart it

I actually hope to have a little of this today! Sorry Dave!

I am going to do my best to blog 3 times a week. This will truly be a challenge as I am not a very good blogger but I think I can do it and perhaps gain a new habit out of it. I can't promise a ton of pictures and wonderfully written entries but I can guarantee typos and sentences that don't make any sense. I am going to blame those things on pregnancy--though it happens ALL THE TIME. I hope that I get better over the next few weeks but we will see!

In the meantime if you have any vegetarian friendly lunches or dinners please pass them along! Otherwise Dave will be eating A LOT of peanut butter sandwiches for lunch! Anybody else doing anything for Lent?

Lately...

2011-02-16T17:19:00.000-08:00

Things have been busy in the McIntosh house! Ok not really. Dave has been busy working on his dissertation and training for his next marathon while I haven't been doing much other than eating and sitting! But here is a quick run down of the latest news.

Dave, Brett, and Derek with their medals!

Dave, along with who I usually call "the idiots" Brett and Derek, completed the Houston Marathon a few weeks ago. The weather was wet, humid and warm which is not ideal for a marathon but they did GREAT! Dave finished the course in 4:54:03. His goal was to finish and to finish under 5 hours was fantastic for a first marathon. They run their next marathon this weekend in Austin which looks like similar weather but a much harder course. Wish them luck!

Note-they are not really idiots...they are all actually very smart...but they come up with some idiotic things to do.Complete an Ironman, run 2 marathons in 4 weeks...sane people don't do this.

As many of you know, we learned that we are expecting twin boys! I will admit I wanted at least one girl but as I think about it, it will be so much fun to watch these two little men grow up. I am sure they will be the best of friends and I will be spending a lot of time at even more sporting events. They are looking healthy and right on track with their growth which is really all we could ask for! I am getting bigger and bigger and I am beginning to notice the extra 20 pounds! Here I am at 20 weeks...

Week 20

Well that is all for now so we will see you later...oh wait...someone wanted to say HI!

(I don't think I will put many of these up here but who could resist not sharing this!)

Double the Fun

2011-01-23T13:40:00.000-08:00

It's been a while. I know so please don't hold it against me. Perhaps I will get a little better at blogging..at least for a few months. The big news we recently shared with family and friends is that Dave and I are expecting! Yeah! Not only are we expecting we are expecting twins! We found out in November we were expecting (excellent birthday present for me!) and then a few weeks later I saw two little heartbeats and the doctor gave us the news that we were expecting twins. My reaction? I laughed. What else can you do when you have equal amounts of excitement, joy and pure anxiety over how in the world we would manage two children at once! Dave unfortunately couldn't be with me that day due to a conference. The doctor and I both were a little disappointed we couldn't see his reaction because I am sure it would have been priceless.

As soon as I left the dr.'s office I texted Dave to say I was done and he should call ASAP. He did and I told him that he needed to come up with another nickname so that both of our children would feel included when their father was talking to them. He's reaction..."You're Kidding." and then silence. Yes for once I was able to make my husband speechless. Oh to have seen his face!! Then he started asking me all these questions that I really did not even think about when I was in the doctor's office...hello I was just told we were having twins and my brain wasn't working. But as we go to all the doctor's appointments he is slowly getting all his questions answered.

So now we are 4 months in and so far this has been a really easy pregnancy...knock on wood. I haven't had a bit of morning sickness but the Christmas holiday came at the best time because I think that was when I was most tired. I am getting bigger each day and am measuring about a month ahead of schedule which is typical of twins. I am not doing great on the weight gain but I feel like I am eating nonstop. Hopefully it will pick up this trimester. Our due date was July 5 but the doctor said we won't make that so as long as we make it to June the doc will be happy.

We will find out girls and boys in about two weeks so let the guessing begin! Here is a picture at 13 weeks and another at 16 weeks to help you in your guessing game.

14 weeks

16 weeks

In other news, Dave is running a marathon next weekend. His first and I know he will do great. I really don't know where he finds the energy and motivation to train for these endurance sports but hopefully our children will get that from him! My sister Abrah (along with Josh and Riley) welcomed their 2nd son this week. Myles Levi arrived on Jan. 19 and everyone is doing great. And another sister Chelsea along with Chris and Rease will welcome baby #2 in August! Crazy.

McLovin'

2010-08-25T18:44:00.000-07:00

Handmade Banner...so cool!

Dave and I are rockstars. Well, at least we were for 4 days this summer. We had the great honor to serve as Fish Camp Namesakes for a group of 143 incoming freshmen but really we didn't do a thing other than show up! The work was all done by 24 energetic counselors and 2 amazing co-chairs. They have been working for the past 6 months to create an awesome experience for the McIntosh fish.

Kickball Victory during Work Day #1!

Dave and I got to give a speech at camp. That was a highlight. We talked about taking chances, stepping into discomfort, and making the most of your college years. One of the themes that we used during out speech was all things 1980's (rap, like Young MC and Digital Underground; the 1985 Chicago Bears; Michael Jackson, John Mellencamp, and Bob Knight), which was funny and sad for us because everything they knew about any of this stuff was from a book or movie. They weren't alive in the 1980's...

"M-C-I-N-T-O-S-H! McIntosh, McIntosh all over the place!"

Camp McIntosh 2010


Our fantastic co-chairs Missy & Mandi

YNWA: You'll Never Walk Alone

Our camp color was red which will explain the amount of red hair in some of the pictures. They did a bunch of skits that were pretty funny. My favorites were a group of lovely men displaying their dry land synchronized swimming skills, Chariots of Fire, and Dave showing some impressive dancing skills that I rarely have the pleasure seeing (while that wasn't a skit, that was some comedy). These are incredibly talented people! For 4 days we heard "McIntosh" chanted over and over. It was SO HOT (it is Texas in August) but so much fun! We couldn't have asked for anything more!

"Snapping necks and cashing checks, we're hard CORE, how do you like them apples, huhhh"

Thanks so much Mandi, Missy, Anthony, Austin, Ben, Beth, Byrd, Chase, Cristin, Daniel, Emily, Fairleigh, J-Dunc, Jordan, Kelsey, Kevin, Kylee, Meghan, Ross, Sara, Sean, Sisi, Tara, TMac, Trcka, and Will!

2010-01-14T11:15:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday Dave!

Today Dave is 35! It is hard to believe because he doesn't look a day over 30. I am very lucky and blessed to be married to such a wonderful person. There are many things I love and appreciate about him like....

He's determined & driven

Dave riding in the 2009 Silverman...112 miles! Some might call him crazy...

He is loyal and dedicated

Please take special note of the beltbuckle...that would be chocheeze (no idea how to spell that) ...proof it did travel with us on our honeymoon.

He is creative and funny

He always suprises me...this is my suprise honeymoon to MEXICO!

He's loving, caring, and cute!

Happy Birthday babe! I hope you have a great day! Love you!

Aggie Bonfire

2009-11-18T07:49:00.000-08:00

On November 18 at 2:42am ten years ago Bonfire at Texas A&M University fell killing 12 students and injuring 27. I wasn't here on campus then but Dave was here to experience the tragedy that is still very present on the minds of so many. The student newspaper, The Battalion, has done a great job in remembering this anniversary over the past two days and I don't think I could express or share in this blog what occurs with Bonfire. I think the memorial that opened 5 years ago is one of the most thoughtful memorials I have ever seen. If you have a few moments you may want to watch the video, read the deep meaning of the memorial, or about the 12 students who fell with Bonfire.

If you think I look bad, you should see the doctor!

2009-11-04T08:41:00.000-08:00

For the past few years I have had a small lump under my right eye. No one really notices unless I point it out to them. I guess in this case I should be grateful for my round face and chubby cheeks. I however notice it EVERYDAY! I had talked to my doctors and they all said it was probably a cyst or a build up of fatty tissue so I never worried about it. It didn't bother me enough to have it cut out! Well, over the years it kept growing and after watching a few too many TLC specials about weird things people grew, I decided to get it removed.

Since it was on my face and around my eye, I decided to visit a plastic surgeon and an eye surgeon to see who would be the best candidate to remove this thing. I settled on the plastic surgeon and about 2 weeks ago I went under the knife! Luckily, he was able to do a local anesthetic and do the procedure (I don't even call it a surgery) in the office. It took about 45 minutes and I was able to see the little critter. It was about the size of a really bloated Tylenol capsule or a small Mike and Ike (candy). I stayed home for two days mainly because I looked ridiculous and had a pretty good headache. Did I mention that we had the Livestrong banquet 3 days after this...I was pretty.

Honestly it didn't look that bad. Most people didn't notice it because my glasses hid it nicely and I wore a hat for a couple of days (the bright sunny skies of TX were not my friend that week). My doctor said that I would have a black eye and he wasn't kidding. Below you can see the picture a week after I had the procedure. I had the stitches removed the following day. I promise it looks much worse than it felt!

4 little stitches & a pretty black eye

I am healing quite well. Just a little bit of a black eye remains (but I can cover most of it with makeup) and the cut is still a little tender. The results of the biopsy showed that it was a benign tumor of the nerve tissue and the chances of it growing again are pretty slim. After thinking about it this is something I probably should have taken care of a while ago but I am glad it is finally done!

Boss's Day

2009-10-16T12:48:00.000-07:00

Today is Boss's Day around the country...a hallmark holiday...but a holiday none the less to remind us to appreciate those who we work with. Today I had a great day because my group of fabulous students took a minute out of their busy schedules to remember me. I adore Allison, Tracie, Jace and Krystavel and truly am so lucky to work with them. They make my job so easy because they are so great at what they do. I didn't have a moment to get them all together for a picture but here are the BEAUTIFUL flowers they gave me that are making my office smell so great!

Of course I posted my surprise on facebook! To my surprise this prompted an even better day as some of my past students wrote little notes remembering me being their boss years ago. I have been so lucky to work with such fabulous people over the course of my career. They are all so special to me and are never forgotten. Thanks to everyone for a great day!

So I should give a shout out to all of my bosses! Here's to Laura, D'aun, Jane, Troy, Nicole, Rachel, George, Kate, Nikki, & Kathy for helping me become such a great boss...I learned from you!

By the way...I have not idea why this entire blog is underlined and I can't figure out how to turn it off!

Pancakes

2009-10-04T17:02:00.000-07:00

This weekend Dave had a bike race in Lufkin, Texas. Now there isn't much in Lufkin, TX especially at 6:30am, but once the sun came up and Dave was on his way out on his bike I was able to explore. My first priority was breakfast. I was starving! Usually I just find the nearest McDonald's but Saturday morning I felt like something a bit more. I eventually found an I-Hop and decided to eat there. At first I was hesitant because it is a sit down restaurant and I was by myself. It felt a little weird but I ventured in anyway.

Once I was in of course I wanted pancakes. I LOVE PANCAKES. I don't know what it is but they are delicious! They are fluffy, warm, soft and just heavenly. I always ask Dave to make me pancakes but I am glad he says 'no' so that I can enjoy them as a special treat. I only like traditional buttermilk or whole wheat pancakes, no butter and syrup on the side where I can dip each bite (soggy pancakes are just gross). As I was looking at the menu some of the pancake options were just ridiculous. Some of the pancakes come with so much stuff it is like a dessert! Whip cream, strawberries, chocolate chips, bananas, nuts, the list goes on and on. I just can't do it. I need to taste the pancake!

I realized that I ate my pancakes quickly (even though Dave wouldn't be done for like 5 more hours) but I don't think it was because they were so yummy. I think subconsciously I didn't like sitting in the restaurant by myself-I know it is strange since I am an introvert. After a while I realized it wasn't that bad and wish I would have eaten slower or brought my book in to read so I could waste a little time. Next bike race, I think I will find another place to hang out...maybe even go to a movie...by myself.

So I won't leave you hanging in suspense...there really isn't much in Lufkin. I went to Target (shocking I know) and found a deal on a couple of lamps, went to the mall (terrible...I was only there 5 minutes) and then decided to go back to the race. It was a beautiful day so I pulled out the lawn chair and read a book until Dave finished. It was a great day hanging by myself but I was pretty happy when he was done...with or without the stink that goes with 6 hours on a bike...I kinda like him.

Floaties No More

2009-08-16T14:53:00.000-07:00

So, in preparation for this year’s LiveStrong Challenge, I thought it would be nice to incorporate a new physical activity, to keep my mind and body engaged. It is pretty much a no-brainer that someone who has had four knee surgeries should probably stay away from running, which left swimming as my best bet…great on the joints, full body workout, easy access to a great natatorium on campus. There was only one problem: I don’t know how to swim. Yeah, I know, I know.

But I am committed to this, so I signed up last week for an Adult Learn to Swim class on campus. For some reason in my mind I thought that learning to swim would be easy – you know after a week I would be jumping off the high dive and swimming laps leisurely up and down the pool lanes. I am here to tell you that learning to swim as an adult is no picnic. I call it 60 minutes of controlled panic. Trying to remember all the things you have to do is proving a challenge – stretch the arms, flat back, head straight down, rotate shoulders, kicking legs, breathe out, head to the side, breathe in, etc. The thing that I find so troubling is that quite literally every instinct you have in the water is wrong. When you panic and start moving faster, you sink. When you want to tilt your head so you can see where you are going, your legs sink. When you are about to crap your pants in fear, you have to relax (which actually seems like a good play regardless of where you are).

So in my class I have had some small victories as well as some humble pie. The same night that I was finally able to breathe and swim at the same time (a little bit), I had a four year old jump into the pool (something I still can’t do) and literally swim rings around me. I thought I was decently athletic until that night.

In order to really get the hang of this, I was told that we’d need to continue to practice for a couple more weeks before we can even get into the lap pool. Needless to say, this was a let down. But, Jenny has agreed to come to the pool with me to help me practice…or maybe just for a good laugh. The best part about this whole ordeal is that my knees have never felt better. That whole thing about water exercise being a good for the joints isn’t a giant steaming pile of crap after all. Man, I wish I’d done this years ago…for a variety of reasons.

San Diego Surprise

2009-07-14T18:02:00.000-07:00

Since I know this is being read by many family members, I'll keep these posts clean, with only an occasional references to things that are not PG rated. So recently Jenny and I had the opportunity to travel to San Diego – I went for a conference and Jenny went because she wanted a break. We went out a couple of days before the conference and had a great time. Ryan (Jenny’s brother) came down for a day and while he was there, we did two of my favorite things: went to a baseball game and eat delicious, greasy food. It was everything I had hoped and dreamed it would be. So we saw the Cubs lose to Padres (it figures), but to add insult to injury it was the night that they honored the 1984 Padres team that beat the Cubs to go to the World Series. It was excruciatingly painful as I had to relive the pain of 1984… the year that should have been.

The day after the game we went to the beach (La Jolla and Ocean Beach) as well as to my new favorite restaurant: Hodads. Ryan found this place, that claims to have a bacon-patty on their bacon cheeseburger. Needless to say it did not disappoint. If you are in San Diego and don’t mind waiting like 15 minutes to get into a restaurant, I highly recommend it. Here is a picture of Jenny and Ryan as we waited for our angioplasty following the bacon cheeseburgers.

We also went to the world famous San Diego Zoo, which is really pretty awesome, as far as zoos go. Here is a pic of me and the Little One. Two things of note: 1. My head looks even more freakishly big next to Jenny’s regular sized head. 2. Letting my hair grow long was a bad idea. I won’t try it again unless I’m losing my hair and trying to rock the comb-over.

My Garden

2009-06-02T17:39:00.000-07:00

I have attempted to plant flowers and do a little container gardening. It seemed to be going well a first but things are looking TERRIBLE! So far of my 2 tomato plants, 4 cucumber plants, 2 green pepper plants and $40.00 worth of flowers I only have hope for the green peppers. Things are dying left and right...or some crazy bug is eating everything. I did have one tomato before we left for San Diego and when we returned...gone! So my new hobby of gardening is losing steam since I haven't been able to enjoy anything! Oh well...better luck next time. Here are pictures of my garden before and I am too sad to take more pictures of my now very depressing garden! Maybe I will try again later.

My Flowers...I think there are 2 left...

From left: green peppers, tomato & cucumbers (2 pots), and then a smaller tomato plant. The one on the right has already died and gone to tomato heaven.

Oh gardening...maybe you aren't my new hobby!

A little catching up...

2009-05-11T17:44:00.001-07:00

I am new to the blogging world so I feel the need to bring everyone up to date on what has been going on in the past year so that I can begin a more up to date blog that captures events as they happen. So here we go...it's a long one!

October 2007: Dave and Jenny buy their first house
Jenny was finally able to move to Bryan/College Station in June 2007 starting her new job in Aggie Access. We started out living in the two room apartment that Dave was currently in as we waited for the house to open that we would be living in. To say the least it was a tight fit but after 2 months we were ready to move to the new house. Please note this would be the 2nd move in 2 months for Jenny. Then after Jenny finished unpacking the last box, a great house fell into our laps. We quickly made a decision to purchase the house and we were moving again! Moving stinks but we have a beautiful, historic house that we love.

March 2008: London, England
Each year Jenny has a great perk of getting to take a group of students abroad for her job. Dave has been lucky enough to go along at a student rate. You can't beat traveling to Europe for the price of one! Our first trip was to London, England which was fabulous. We did so much including the Tower of London, soccer game, Westminster Abbey, Parliment, Big Ben, saw Wicked, Harrods, and so much more. We had true Fish and Chips which was what Jenny ate most of the time. Dave ate anything!

May 2008: Dave & Jenny get married!
The best day of our lives so far. We were married in Bloomington, IN on May 31, 2008. It was a great day filled with family and friends. Jenny's mom made the dress, our dear friend Glenn officiated our ceremony, the day was sunny and beautiful, and it was just perfect.

June 2008: A surprise honeymoon in Mexico
Dave and Jenny had agreed that they would not do an extravagant honeymoon and just go away for a weekend once they were back home in Texas. Dave of course had other plans and surprised Jenny with a trip to Acapulco, Mexico. Dave's boss, Becky gave a week in her timeshare to us for our wedding and Dave used that gift to plan the trip. Dave conspired with Jenny's boss Laura to make it seem she would have some pretty busy days when she returned. It was pretty exciting and we had a great time. Jenny unfortunately ate or drank something she should not have and ended up pretty sick for a portion of the trip. We did spend some time exploring Acapulco and just relaxing in the beach. We were able to see the famous cliff divers and visit a silver mine in the mountains of Mexico.

October 2008: Dave raises $5300 for the Lance Armstrong Foundation by riding his bike 90 miles
Dave had been searching for a way to enhance his workout regime and decided on biking. But he didn't want to start off easy so he decided to train for a charity bike ride raising money for cancer research. Dave trained by riding between 70-80 miles a weekend in order to prepare. This equals about 4-5 hours on bike in case you were wondering. Dave raised a ton of money thanks to our family and friends. He completed the ride 5.5 hours. Pretty impressive! Lance only beat him by a little. :)

February 2009: Dave is ABD!
In February Dave completed his comprehensive exams and defended his dissertation proposal. This is such an awesome accomplishment as he has been working so hard. ABD stands for All But Dissertation so once he finishes his dissertation he will be Dr. David McIntosh! I know he can't wait as I think he may be a little tired of being a student.

March 2009: Paris, France
In March we once again ventured to Europe with about 80 students. It was a fantastic trip to Paris. The weather was gorgeous. We were able to see so much including Versailles, Mona Lisa at the Lourve, Monet's Waterlillies, wonderful gyros, tastey crepes, and so much more. The pictures help tell the story of our trip.

Well I hope that you enjoyed catching up with the McIntosh's. Thanks for reading everything and we promise the next post will be much shorter!

We've joined the blogging world!

2009-03-29T17:18:00.000-07:00

So everyone I know is blogging. They are somehow able to find things they do in their life everyday to write about so who knows maybe I do too! I doubt it will be as entertaining as some that I have been keeping up with but who knows perhaps I have an inner blogger trying to get out! I have tried to keep a journal and that didn't turn out so well so hopefully the online version will work a little better, however I doubt that my most private thoughts will be written here. It is afterall on the internet! I will do my best to keep everyone up to date about what is going on in the newly formed McIntosh family. Who knows maybe Dave will get on here every now and then to try it out too! So there is my first attempt and now I will attempt to load a random photo to see how it goes! Wish me luck!