Jonathan Day 365

Dearest Jonathan Harper,

Daddy and Da Da start this letter to you where we started our life with you.  Ironically, we are at Gramma and Grandpa's house like we were 365 days ago when we picked you up.  We are here because your Great Gramma Junker is close to leaving us and Da Da needed to be here to  say his final goodbye.

We were two pretty frightened new parents when we picked you up from Aunt Sherry's house on July 24th, 2010.  You were happy and silly and excited to cram in to our very small car to start our life together.  I think I pulled every muscle in my back and neck wrapping myself around the seat to watch you and talk endlessly to keep you occupied.

Da Da and I loved you the day we met you on July 14, 2010.  We cried when you left and you held your arms out saying "I want Da Da and Daddy".  I think it was that same day we emptied my office and Da Da started painting your room for your arrival.  We started shopping for cabinet locks, baby gates, and just about every item in the baby department of Walmart.

We wrote this blog so you can read and see how you changed our lives.  You my son, are the most wonderful thing that has ever happened to me (us).  We love you so much and look forward to each day that you continue to develop in to an amazing person.

You have so many people that love you and have supported us as a family.  If I tried to name them here I fear I would forget to mention someone, so read the blog, read the comments, and appreciate the people in your life.

Love your Daddy and Da Da

Jonathan Day 364

Today was a good day. JH woke Daddy up about 6:30 this morning. We have been getting in the groove of having JH crawl into bed with us in the mornings for a bit of cartoons, but this morning all JH wanted was breakfast.

After we all had breakfast and coffee, we pulled ourselves together and ran into town. We did the usual Post Office visit, Farmers Market and a trip to the local hardware store. I had to get a few things to put up a wall mounted TV in the Master Bedroom. While I was running the cable and electric through the attic and walls, Daddy and JH played in the basement.

When I finished up we headed into Michigan City and hit our favorite Mexican restaurant. JH loves his "Chips and Dip". A quick trip to grab a few groceries and we were back home for a afternoon nap. After getting home and laying JH down for a nap, we lost power. This happened last year for about a week due to the heat. So, we decided to let JH sleep as long as he wanted to till the power came back up. Fortunately, it was back in a few hours.

Later in the day after watching some Thomas the Train shows, we headed outside. JH helped Daddy and myself finish up the limestone patio that we were installing. He wanted to be a part of every task that we were doing. Gotta love it!

Pizza for dinner, a little sit nice time and before we knew it, it was 9:00pm. Way past JH's bedtime! So, off to bed we went.

Tomorrow will be day 365 of Jonathan 365 blog. It's crazy that tomorrow will be a year. This has been one heck of a roller coaster for the three of us. Both Jon and myself had no clue how much love and life that JH could bring to our lives. JH is filled with love, a abundance of energy and personality. The three of us are a family and our lives are richer and in a sense complete. I have to say the love and support that we have had from both family and friends has been very much appreciated and will never be forgotten.

Jonathan Day 363

Daddy and Auntie Jo Jo had a little too much wine last night so Da Da and JH had breakfast before we got up.  When I finally dragged my sorry self out of bed JH was in bed with Jo watching Thomas videos on her lap top.  I logged on to work and started my day very slowly.

Da Da went out and continued to work on the stone path and Jo and JH played in the basement.  I heard them laughing and playing and that is music to my ears.  I love to see and hear JH laughing and playing.  At one point I saw Jo pulling JH in the wagon and sitting watching him play on his swing set.  The heat wasn't too bad today so they had to take advantage :-)

I snuck away from work a little early so we could go to the Social Security office to officially change Jonathan's name.  Luckily it wasn't busy at all so the majority of the time away was driving the 30 miles each way to Benton Harbor.  JH played with Auntie Jo Jo's phone the entire way there and back looking at photos of Damian and "baby Avery".  

We had dinner a few minutes ago and JH is in his PJs watching Sprout with Da Da on the sofa.  He is sleepy and just said "I want to go to bed", when we said okay, he said "how about in 10 minutes".

Jonathan Day 362

It was another hot day here in MI. The heat index was 115 today.

JH woke up with a lot of energy this morning. We had breakfast and played for a bit until it was time to go to Carly's house.

Auntie JoJo came up today. She hasn't seen JH since his birthday party and she needed a JH fix. When she got here it was around lunchtime so Auntie JoJo, Daddy and myself went over and picked Jonathan up a few hours early today. After picking up JH we all went to Wendys for lunch.

When we got back Daddy went back to work, I got to get a nap in and Auntie JoJo played for hours in the cool basement. I could here laughing, screaming and nothing but pure joy coming from the basement.

Later in the day, Daddy and I headed into town to do some last minute shopping. Auntie JoJo and JH stayed home and got dinner ready for our arrival home. When we left JH was standing on a chair at the kitchen sink washing dishes. He loves to be a part of every activity! I hope that lasts for many years to come.

After dinner we all sat nice and JH was off to bed.

Jonathan Day 361

It was hotter than hell here today!  

We all woke-up and JH came in and played channel surfer for about 30 minutes before we got out of bed.  I made scrambled eggs for JH and curry stuffed omelet for Da Da.  After breakfast Da Da went out to try and get some pavers put down and JH colored while I worked.  It's amazing how much easier he is getting, he doesn't need 100% attention anymore.

At lunch Da Da and JH came up and Da Da made us all a delicious lunch.  I wish that the weather wasn't so darn hot that he and Da Da could have spent a little time outside.  Maybe later this week when the temperature drops to 90 degrees.

After work we drove to New Buffalo to look at some acreage that Rick found that is a great deal but too close to the casino.  We keep dreaming about having 10+ acres and building our dream house.  If we find the land now cheap enough we can get it and build in about 20 years when I can retire :-D

I made corn on the cob as a side for dinner tonight and JH did really well for his first time.  I started it to give him a row to start from and he actually had two pieces.  Then he had a bath and we sat nice for about 45 minutes.  While sitting nice he kept hugging me and saying "I love you, guess what? Chicken BUTT".

Jonathan Day 360

Today was a great day.

We all woke up on the right side of the bed. I went in and got JH after I heard a few "Good morning outsides!". I brought JH back to bed and he watched a bit of tv with Daddy and myself.

After watching a little TV, JH was hungry.  So Daddy got started on breakfast and I got JH settled in his chair for cartoons.

Today was a Miss Christy's day. Daddy took JH while I got in about an hour of work this morning before it hit the 90's!

Near day end I grabbed Daddy and I ran over and grabbed JH. We thought we would go to the cool basement but after looking at the next two days weather we decided that JH needed to play on his play set before being confined to the basement for the next few days. We are supposed to have temps near 100 and a 100% humidity.

Had some leftover Chinese for dinner, a VERY long bubble bath, sit nice time and JH was off to bed.

Jonathan Day 359

For the last three or four days JH gets up and comes in a snuggles with us.  Actually, he watches TV while Da Da and I try to get a few last minutes of sleep.  This morning he sat against me changing the channel about 200 times; I didn't mind at all :-)

We had....wait for it...french toast for breakfast AGAIN.  I'm hoping that he loses interest in french toast soon.  He has been drinking from a small cup since he returned from Gramma's house.  No more sippy cups; not even in the car.  Our boy is growing up so fast!

Da Da and JH ran to Home Depot to get a few parts to hang the TV we had in Chicago in the exercise area in the basement.  Now when we do the treadmill we can watch TV.  Since the majority of our projects are almost done we should be able to make time soon.

When Da Da and JH returned, Da Da made us all grilled cheese and turkey sandwiches for lunch.  JH and I shared cherries that we bought at the farmers market on Sunday for desert.  I am hoping that more fresh fruit will make him a little more regular; he went two days with no poop.  It seems to bother me more than it does him other than an occasional, "My belly hurts".

After work we all played in the basement until dinner.  I made lemon chicken, fresh corn, mashed potatoes, and broccoli from our garden for dinner.  JH wasn't too interested in the broccoli, I think next time I'll have him pick it with  me; then he may be more interested in trying it.

JH had a bath after dinner and was singing Itsy bitsy spider to his plastic spider in the tub.  Now we're sitting nice watching Sprout waiting for the sign language word of the day :-)

Jonathan Day 358

Today was a good day.

We woke up relatively early and met Uncle Michael for breakfast this morning at Louisas. Afterwards we all jumped in our car and went over to the local garden center and scored on some clearance plants.  Uncle Michael is having some yard work done and wanted us to see what he has been up to lately so we stopped by his house for a bit before heading home.

When we got home the temperature was already in the 90's and unbearable to be outside. After sitting in the basement playing we decided to head into Michigan City to see a movie. We saw Whinnie The Pooh.  Usually it's JH and myself at the movies so it was nice having Daddy join us.  Two large sodas and One large popcorn and we were set.  JH was a bit distracted as he had Daddy and DaDa to jump from.  "Can I sit on your lap DaDa? Can I sit on your lap Daddy?".

When we got home we spent the rest of the day downstairs and enjoyed the cool basement. On our way home from town the temperature read 97!

Had dinner and sat nice.  During our sit nice time, there was a show on Sprout where the host was playing with a puppet Star and a shadow box.  I can't recall what the host said but JH bellowed out in this raspy low little voice "that's fantastic!".  Daddy and I had our laugh for the day.

Jonathan Day 357

Ahhh, Saturday!

We all slept until about 7:40 AM when JH was crying "I have to go potty".  Da Da got up and dealt with Jonathan while I tried to get a few more minutes of sleep in.  Last night was a difficult night with me filled with a little drama and things that just aren't important in the bigger picture called life.  I love my family but totally remember why I left when I was 22 and lived in AZ for 25 years.  Enough said!

I suggested we go to Louisa's for breakfast but Da Da wanted to save that for tomorrow.  SO, I whipped two different egg dishes, JH and I had Turkey and Cheese Scramble Eggs and Da Da had an Egg White Omelet with leftover Chicken Curry.

After breakfast we went in to Three Oaks to get the mail and drop by the farmers market.  We were pretty thrilled to get Jonathan's new Birth Certificates today; is it crazy that I ordered 8 copies?  It was pretty warm here so after we went home and let JH play on his swing set that is luckily on a very shady and pleasant place in the yard.

Close to 2:00 PM my brother Mike drove up and brought JH a framed and signed picture of Brian Urlacher (Chicago Bear player...I had no clue).   This is something that Jonathan will appreciate as he gets older; especially when Uncle Mike starts taking him to games :-)  Mike took us to Jimmy's in New Buffalo for a late lunch, and then we came back and he and JH played trains in the basement.  Before Mike left we spent about an hour with JH pushing Rosie the train down his slide while Mike retrieved it and down came Rosie again.

A quick trip to MI City to get some grass seed and some clearance rocking chairs for the front porch and JH is now sleeping.

Jonathan Day 356

Today was a whirlwind!

We woke up in the Chicago condo this morning and I must say it was a weird feeling. Jonathan and I slept in the queen bed and Daddy slept on the sofa. It wasn't a very comfortable night for any of us. Well....maybe JH, he'll sleep through just about anything.

Since we packed the condo up the night before and we had nothing but a set of clean clothes and our toothbrushes, we headed to IHOP for breakfast.

When we got back to the condo we started doing our last minute cleaning.  The movers were about an hour late so we were a bit behind schedule.  Daddy had to work so JH was my little helper making a few trips to the car, cleaning the floors, and washing down the kitchen and bath.  Once the movers came and took the few remaining pieces from the unit we did one more walk through and Daddy on his hands and knees washed the floors as he crawled out the door. It was a bit emotional since I put many hours of sweat, tears, blood and love into designing the condo.  As for Jon, it was his dream condo in the city.  We have a renter who is moving in Monday so we had to move fast and keep our emotions in check.  As we drove away from the condo, JH said "Good bye to the Chicago!".

When we got home we were exhausted. The car was completely loaded with EVERYTHING from the condo.  There wasn't another crevice that we could have stuck anything else.  The temperature outside was in the high 80's with 100% humidity.  Daddy and I looked at each other and said, "we just can't, and it will wait until the morning!".

So Daddy went in and made us a delicious curry dinner.  JH and I played outside for about 30 minutes on his new play set until dinner was ready.  I have to say being in the city was nice, but this is now our home.  To play in the yard with no worries, to have JH run like no other child could, and to sit back and look at what we have built here in MI was just awesome.

After dinner we had a little sit nice time and then JH went off to bed.

Jonathan Day 355

Thursday was a good day.  I worked in the morning and at lunch we dashed to Chicago to sign a lease to rent the condo.  While we're both happy that we'll have some financial relief,  we poured our heart and soul (and $$$$) in to that place.  The good news is that I don't think there is another studio in the building that is getting close to our rental amount :-)

While signing the lease the guy that is renting looked back at JH and said "how old is Jonathan" we said he just turned three in June and he said "wow, he is really articulate".  It's nice to get compliments on our son.  After the signing we quickly jumped in the car and met Auntie Staci for dinner at Indie Cafe.  It was so great seeing her and finally having a moment that didn't include packing, moving, driving, or working.

We got home close to 9:00 PM-CT so that's a good 2 to 3 hours after Jonathan's bedtime.  He was exhausted and happily went to bed.  Da Da and JH slept in the bed and I took the sofa that was so narrow, that when I laid on my back 1/4 was hanging off the side :-O

All in all it was a busy but productive day and how JH puts up with all our crazy activities with a good attitude. I'll never fully understand.

Jonathan Day 354

We got up pretty early this morning so I could help Da Da finish the play set before I had to sign on to work.  JH had french toast sticks and couldn't wait to gobble it all up to get outside and "help".

The play set is easily visible from my office, so seeing Jonathan out there playing all day while Da Da did yard work and watering was great.  He was a very good boy today and didn't have any accidents.  We implemented the sticker reward system again and it seems to be doing wonders.  Not once did he say that he didn't want to go potty today.  He puts the sticker on his forehead after so I started calling him sticker head.  Before we went out this evening I went potty and JH said "take a sticker Daddy" and I did and placed it on my head and he said "let's go sticker head" while giggling.

We had Tacos for dinner tonight, and JH while eating bit his tongue and it was bleeding a little.  He was crying so hard and kept sticking it out to show us; I felt so bad for him.  The thing about Jonathan Harper is he gets over things pretty fast; Da Da gave him a vitamin and he was saying "This vitamin is making my tongue feel better" and happy as ever.

We sat nice for about 30 minutes and JH grabbed brownie and went off to bed with the usual hugs and kisses.

Jonathan Day 353

We started off to a rough start this morning.

As we have mentioned, we are trying to potty train Jonathan. We couldn't get JH to potty in the three hours of waking up and getting ready to go to Miss Christy's this morning. The last time he went potty was 11pm last night so we thought for sure he had to go. We try not to dwell on the subject but since he's in undies we want to try and avoid any accidents.

When we took JH to Miss Christy's we told her that he hasn't pottied and to watch out! Miss Christy had the kids out in the sprinkler. When I picked JH up he was we and that's all he talked about on his way home. That and "I love you DaDa." That's something we get often but only when he feels it. Miss Christy said that there were no accidents and that he was a good boy today.

When we got home, I put JH down for a nap while I went out and finished his new play set. When Daddy had a break in his day he got JH up from his nap. Daddy asked JH if he had to go potty he said "NO, I don't want to!" So, Daddy put JH in his chair and gave him an afternoon snack. Within minutes of sitting down JH lost it. He wet his pants and didn't say anything until after his snack was over. He asked Daddy to get him some dry underwear. We hope that tomorrow is a better day.

Later in the day after Daddy finished his work day, we headed into Michigan City to get a few things and went to Texas Coral for dinner. Tuesdays is 99 cent Children's menu. Can you believe that they give a child a 6 ounce steak and potato for 99 cents? Crazy!

On the way home we were talking and singing. Out of the middle of no where JH started singing "Boom Ding Choo Choo Song!" I have a feeling this is something that JH picked up at Grandma and Grandpa VanDerSnick's! LOL

We sat nice for a bit and off to bed JH went.

Jonathan Day 352

I have a feeling that there might be a full moon tonight.

It's hard to write anything good for today.  JH was happy and full of energy this morning; he snuggled with me first and then with Da Da to wake him up :-)  It was raining and stormy so after breakfast JH and Da Da went down to the basement for an arts and crafts morning.

In the afternoon JH seemed a little whiney and naughty.  He hasn't had one accident this week but getting him to potty is like pulling teeth.  "I don't want TO GO POTTY" and then he goes or holds it and dribbles, laughs, and then says "I don't want to go potty".

I am just not feeling it tonight so I'll end with, JH is the best thing that has happened to us and in spite of the crappy day it's all worth it.

Please send positive energy to Gramma Junker, she is not doing well again.  I'm glad that Gramma V took Jonathan to see her twice this month and he so remembers her and talks about her all the time.

Jonathan Day 351

Today was a hot one!

We all woke up relatively early this morning. JH was in a good morning and breakfast was effortless. After breakfast Daddy and Uncle Neil went into Michigan City to pick up the wooden play set that we picked out the other day.

While Daddy was gone, JH and I played in the yard. We built a small retaining wall, moved a few new bushes around, walked the yard at least 15 times in the wagon and attempted to water the garden. Enough was enough, it was blazing hot! So we headed in for showers.

Shortly thereafter, Daddy and Neil pulled in the drive way with the HUGE box of what seems to be a million pieces. We decided to put it to the side and drive into town and grab lunch. We hit a few stores along the way. Running from airconditioning to airconditioning!

JH has this new thing. "Go Dada", For some reason he doesn't seem to like red lights. After explaining that red means we can't go and that green means go, I get "Go Dada, Go....It's Green!" LOL The other thing I get is "Go faster," seems that JH has a lead foot like DaDa.

When we got home from a day out and about, we took naps. When we woke, we thought that we would attempt to start building the play set. After organizing all of the pieces by number and having JH re arrange them, and losing a few nuts and bolts we thought that we would give it another try another day. :)

Had a light dinner and siting nice as I type this entry. JH will be heading to bed here shortly.

Jonathan Day 350

 Only 15 more days and JonathanHarper365 will be complete.  We want to keep something that we can look back on and that Jonathan will have when he gets older so we're starting JonathanHarper52 in a few weeks.

I made blueberry pancakes for breakfast and all of us jumped in the car and drove to MI City to look at swing sets for Jonathan.  He received a good amount of money for his birthday so we're using that to buy a pretty nice cedar play set.  We just need to coordinate with Linda and Neil to have them help us pick it up since the box is so big.  They have the same station wagon that I learned to drive on in the 1970s; big enough to hold 5 kids and a swing set :-)

We all took naps after lunch and then Da Da, JH, and I went to the park.  JH wanted nothing to do with the water park part until just before we lest and he suddenly was brave.  Needless to say the car seat was drenched on the way home.  I brought a towel just in case but he wouldn't take his shirt or shorts off so he was soaked.

After we watered the garden and the yard we all went in to have dinner and JH had a turkey and cheese sandwich.   While eating he turned to me and said "would you like a bite my darling?" . . . . WTH?  Where does he come up with this stuff?  I call him my love but where my darling came from I'll never know!

I keep forgetting to mention that I'm starting to teach Jonathan sign language.  He knows and repeats:
I love you
Yes
No

Once he knows his A B C s verbally, I'll start teaching him finger spelling.

Jonathan Day 349

Today was kind of a sad day. As all things, some things must come to an end.

This morning was a early morning. We had breakfast and then we packed up the car and headed into Chicago to take Grandma VanDerSnick to the train station. Daddy logged in to work and JH, Grandma and myself spent a little time in Chicago, met Daddy for lunch at Dim Sum and then we dropped Grandma off. The three of us were sad to see Grandma leave.

JH has been connected to Grandma VanDerSnick's hip for two weeks today. I'm not quite sure how JH will do with out Grandma to save him! LOL At the same time, I'm not sure how Grandma will fill her time now. I have a feeling Grandpa will keep her on her toes.

JH has been acting up the past few days and today was a bit stressful. We met with a realtor to put the Chicago condo on the market to rent. JH wasn't on his best behavior during the meeting. Daddy and I need to reel in some of the behaviors JH has and redirect negative actions to positive reactions.

After the meeting we yet again packed up the car and headed for Michigan. JH was pooped from the day and fell asleep for the last hour of the ride.

Had dinner and the three of us are sitting nice and watching Blues Clues before bed.

Jonathan Day 348

Gramma made corn tonight and JH wasn't sure just what to do with it.

The morning started the same as the last few days, Gramma was woken-up by JH loudly saying "I don't want to go potty" and then peeing like crazy.  After breakfast Da Da went outside and Gramma and JH hit the basement.  I was busy working upstairs in my office and didn't get too much JH time other than meals and a few trips outside to see what was happening.  Today was so nice and mild that Gramma and JH put about a mile on the wagon.

When Gramma, Da Da, and JH headed to MI City I asked JH for a kiss and hug and when he was kissing me I said give me a good smack and that's just what he did, he smacked me in the face :0  I wanted noise when he kissed me.  When they returned JH came in like gangbusters and said "I have to go potty Daddy".  He has gone a couple of days just wearing a pull-up at bedtime and all week it has been dry.

Dinner was fun watching JH try and eat corn on the cob.  Now we're all sitting in the basement watching Sprout sitting nice.  Tomorrow we head in to Chicago to take Gramma to the train and I dread how JH will react.  He loves his Gramma and has spent two weeks with her getting 100% of her attention.  Daddy has enjoyed having her here too and will miss her very much.

Jonathan Day 347

Today was kinda early. Daddy and I woke up to JH chirping away...."good morning, good morning outside."

Daddy and I were trying to catch up to Jonathan's energy level this morning with a pot of coffee. Grandma VanDerSnick woke up a few short moments later.

Grandma told Jon and I to do our thing today and that she had Jonathan. Beings that we were gone for a week on vacation Jon had a bit of work to catch up on besides his normal day to day work. As for myself, I was able to fix the waterfall on our new pond and built the sub-structure of the new deck on the side of the shed.

Just before lunch Daddy and I went into town to meet a potential new babysitter for Jonathan. As we approached the house we both had our reservations but decided to keep an open mind as we left the car. After meeting with the lady of the house and hearing of the many people that live in the house (none being kids), how many kids she watched and how JH didn't respond to the other children really spoke volumes. As we left we realized that this wasn't a good fit for us. We don't really need a babysitter as much as we need to socialize JH.

When we came home, JH and Grandma took a 1 1/2 hour nap downstairs while Daddy worked away in his office and I drove into Michigan City for a few things. As he was napping he told grandma that he misses Grandpa, Paris and Fritz (my parents dogs).

Jonathan has been doing well with his potty training for the past few weeks. With a few accidents here and there he's been really progressing well. You can always tell when he might have to go. He crosses his legs and kind of stands there with a slight lean.

At the end of daddy's work day, he joined us in the basement for a little play time before dinner. Dinner was effortless while sit nice time was a little more work. Shortly thereafter it was bedtime.

(The picture above is of Jonathan wearing a hat that was in a birthday card, thank you Michael, Janine and Kiki!)

Jonathan Day 346

6:30 AM came very early this morning!

JH woke-up and was chatting away in his room, when I opened the door he said "I'm not done talking Daddy".  Da Da was still in bed and JH ran in to snuggle with him and made a ruckus on his way; poor Gramma trying to sleep :-)

Da Da, Gramma, and JH headed to MI City to get groceries for dinner with Linda and Neil tonight while I tried to get caught-up after being vacation all last week.  Gramma made the BEST pork ribs I have ever had.  It will be difficult for all of us to see her leave on Friday.  At lunch Gramma asked JH if he was going to miss her when she leaves and he said "Don't leave Gramma"; it was so sweet.

JH tried to take a nap while Gramma cooked and I worked.  Da Da was working in the garage painting some new deck chairs.  After his failed attempt at a nap JH went out and helped Da Da paint.  Gramma and I heard a very loud "OH NO, JONATHAN", yep, paint all over his hands and shorts.

Warning Poop Talk:
When JH went potty today I was in the kitchen getting a drink and talking to Gramma when we heard a very loud expulsion of gas and then, "Daddy, I'm making music in here" :-)  After, I went in to wipe him and he got up to wash his hands and when he did his "hands, pee pee, butt, and trash" routine he put the wet wipe between his butt cheeks and said "look, I'm holding it in my butt cheeks"

After dinner he wanted Linda to go in his room and play with him and walked up to her and said "Here, I will help you up" and put his hand out to let her grab his hand.  JH has been cracking us up lately with the funny things he is saying.  I have no doubt that people that know him and haven't seen him in a few weeks will so notice a difference.  

JH went to bed around 7:30 PM and had a line of people that love him waiting for a goodnight kiss.

Jonathan Day 345

Today was a good day!

We all slept in a bit longer than usual. Our neighbors were lighting off fireworks and singing VERY bad karaoke last night till 3:15 a.m.

I was the first to get up and started doing a bit of laundry left over from vacation. When I walked up JH must have woke Daddy up because they were both up in full swing. As for grandma, I think that after a week with Jonathan and the train ride up, she had nothing left in her.

With Daddy having the day off, we all drove into Mishawaka for a day of shopping. We are in search of a large wooden play set for JH, and putting all of his birthday money to a good source!

Daddy and I ran into Menards real quick to get some pricing on a play set and when I ran back to the car to get something I could tell JH was bothered. Grandma said that when Daddy and I got out of the car he cried for us and said "don't go, I want to go!" As much as that really hurt, Daddy and I smiled because we knew that we were missed and that we are loved by this special little guy.

After a day of shopping and lunch, we were pooped. JH took a nap in the car and Daddy, Grandma and myself chatted about JH, the week ahead of us and the future.

When we got home JH and grandma went to the basement to play for a bit while Daddy and I did a little yard work.

Grandma made a delicious dinner this evening, Orange Chicken.

JH is fast asleep, and the three of us are winding down for the night.

I have to say....It's great to be home, have our little guy back in our arms and to get back into our routine of things.

Jonathan Day 344

Sunday:

To see Gramma and Jonathan riding from the train platform was overwhelming today.  Da Da and I woke-up early and got ready to meet them at Union Station.  We were about 30 minutes early and stood there watching the door like kids waiting for Santa.  JH saw us and smiled and when he ran up Da Da scooped him up.  Gramma said that he asked about us several times in the later part of the week and he was excited this morning when she said they were taking a choo choo to see Daddy and Da Da.

I sat in the back seat with him (thanks Gramma) on the way to MI and got several hugs and kisses.  He is talking so much more in just a weeks time!  Not only that, Gramma had him in underwear all week long and he only had two accidents.  I think our boy is fully potty trained!!

We stopped and had lunch and decided we were all too exhausted to stop and get groceries.  Tomorrow we'll drive to Mishawaka and have a day of fun and get ready for the week.

JH just had a bath and is back on "track" for his 7:00 PM bedtime :-)  I think I missed putting him to bed and tucking him in more than anything last week.  We love Jonathan Harper so much and all is right with the universe again; no more vacations away from JH for a very long time!

Jonathan Day 343

Saturday:

Jonathan Day 342

Friday:
We are counting the hours until we get to see Gramma and JH get off the train on Sunday.  Da Da and I are heading out in a few minutes to have dinner and then come back and get to sleep early for our drive to Miami tomorrow morning.  I'll post day 343 too since we don't have internet in Chicago at the condo so Gramma can post comments on both days.

Jonathan Day 341

3 more nights and we'll get to see our boy.  As soon as we get home we'll start doing some budgeting so we can save to take JH to meet David.

I'm guessing while Gramma and Grandpa are having a blast that they are getting a little worn-out :-)

Jonathan Day 340

Are we crazy to be in paradise with an ocean view and beautiful weather and all we can talk about is JH?  We miss him so much and are counting the hours until we can give him hugs and kisses.  We know that he is having the time of his life playing with kids and having Gramma and Grandpa spoil him rotten.

We love you Jonathan Harper and will see you in a few days.

Jonathan Day 339

Look who we found today.  David Harper was born one year and one month before Jonathan. Genetics are an amazing thing because this boy and Jonathan look like twins.  I have spoken to his foster mother a few times and she sounds like a very nice person, and David is loved.  We hope to go to Texas (Houston area) soon to have David and Jonathan meet.


More from Gramma about her day with JH to come :-)

Jonathan Day 338

To hear about Day 338 please read the comment Gramma posted (or will post later this evening).  Da Da and I miss Jonathan Harper more than we even imagined!  When Gramma and Grandpa pulled away yesterday it was like a part of me drove off.  I had no idea that I would react like I did; Mr cold as ice sobbed like a baby.

Jonathan Day 337

Gramma V is going to write the blog for the next 6 days that DaDa and I are on vacation.

Jonathan Day 336

This was a very long day!

Our baby turned three today and we had a great time with family and friends.  JH woke up pretty early and was immediately kept busy by Gramma and Grandpa when Da Da and I finished getting things ready for the party.  We were a little behind schedule due to having to blow-up a pool and a bouncy room so Grandpa stepped in and JH helped Gramma blow up balloons.

There is really too much to say about the day and I'm not even going to try.  Bottom line is we have awesome friends and family.  So many people drove long distance to spend celebrating the adoption and Jonathan's birthday.  We also had our several dear friends that are only minutes away and we love you all very much!

It's after 10:00 PM here and JH just got out of the bath and is finally in bed and snoring logs!

I'll try and write more details tomorrow and while we're on vacation next week.

Jonathan Day 335

Today was an early one. I think that the anticipation of one special little boys birthday tomorrow has three of us excited.

Daddy was off to work rather early this morning while JH and I finished breakfast. After breakfast we headed out for our morning errands and to grab an additional tank of helium.
The lady at the store chuckled as JH and I walked up and down the aisles looking for helium. JH, "I don't want helium, I don't want helium!" After explaining to JH why we needed helium he was dragging me up and down the aisles saying "a-balloons", and told the lady at the checkout the he was going to have a-ballons for his birthday. I think we made the cashiers morning.

When we got home we finished a few things around the house and took some overdue naps!

Grandma and Grandpa VanDerSnick drove up today. They decided to drive up a day early instead of the morning of the party. Personally, I think they wanted a full day in before the party.

This evening we all went to a local steakhouse for dinner. We've never been so we had no clue what to expect. From the sounds of it Grandpa and Daddy enjoyed the all you can eat Prime Rib and Sea Food buffet. The nice thing was JH got to eat off of the buffet for free! JH wanted nothing to really do with all the delicious food except the carrots and chocolate cake.

Over all it was a great day! JH is playing with Grandma and Grandpa as I type this blog entry. Every toy is being pulled out and being paraded from one end of the basement to the other. Grandma and Grandpa are eating him up. As you can see from the video above, JH is showing Grandpa his duck calling toy.

We will be heading to bed soon, tomorrow will be a fun filled day for all!

Jonathan Day 334

The day started pretty well.  JH and Da Da had breakfast and headed to MI City to buy another folding table for the party Saturday.  The weather was nice so Da Da and JH got 90% of the party preparations done.

We had grilled cheese and tomato soup for lunch and then JH took a little nap.  He was quiet until 2 minutes before a call I was facilitating started crying very loud :-(  I shuffled him outside to help Da Da again and all was well.  JH was very cute following Da Da like a puppy in his short pants and rain boots.

After work I took JH to town to fill-up our gas cans and give Da Da a few minutes to shower in peace.  On the way to the gas station JH said "let's go to the bank Daddy", I asked him why he wanted to go to the bank and he said "That's where we get suckers!".

I mentioned in a past post that I had tried to find Jonathan's brother David and learned he was adopted.  Today out of the blue I called Child Protective Services in Houston and found his caseworker.  I had to leave a message but hope to hear back soon.  IF David has been adopted I would like to leave our contact info for his new family.  IF David is still in foster care we'll have a decision to make on how to proceed.

Jonathan Day 333

Today was a pretty good day.

JH as usual woke up before Daddy and DaDa. We woke up to his lovely little voice just chatting away. Daddy went in to open the door and I heard, "good morning Daddy". I laid in bed with a smile and my eyes closed. It was quiet for a few minutes before I felt a bump in the bed and then a remote hit my head. JH, "a remote, TV DaDa"!

Needless to say at that point we were all up at that point. We had our usual morning ritual of coffee (Daddy and DaDa even more than usual), breakfast, a little morning news and cartoons.

Jon had a pretty busy day at work today so JH hung outside with me. We did a little detailing in preparation for the party this Saturday. JH was all about helping me sweep the mulch back in the yard. We pruned a few bushes, moved a little wood and got the tents out.

Before we knew it, it was lunch time. Beans a Wieners here we go! After lunch we headed to the park. Above is a picture of the two of us from the park today.

When we got home JH got a little nap time in while Daddy and DaDa got a little time to catch up on the days events.

Later in the day after Daddy finished up his work day, Neil called and we headed out for more Michigan Limestone. JH was a trooper! In each of the five loads of rock he was right there. "I will help, I will help"! Sure, enough he helped.

We did however have a moment today. JH was being a little fidgety during Daddy's lunch break. In being so happy, frolickly and fidgety he kicked Daddy in the face. We knew it was an accident so we asked JH to say he was sorry. He said he wasn't and immediately said "I will go to the corner". After many talks to JH about what he did I asked JH to tell Daddy he was sorry and it would be okay, Daddy would give you a hug. JH, "I'M NOT SORRY!" We aren't quite sure how to get a three year old to know how to apologize and understand the apology for an accident.

In the end we had a good dinner, sat nice and off to bed we went.

Jonathan Day 332

Jonathan Harper was as sweet as pie today.  The day started with him crying because he had to go potty; that's nice.  He has been telling us when he has to pee pee too now.  Gramma V is going to make it her mission to get him fully potty trained and in underwear by the time we return from vacation.

Da Da went out and finally finished the mulch while I gave JH breakfast and got him dressed and cleaned-up.  When Da Da finished mulch he took JH out to help him do some final yard work and keep him away from my work day.  I saw them walking all over the yard and JH jumping in the large puddle of water in the front yard.

We had lunch out in MI City at an Asian buffet restaurant and JH ate only fruit and chicken.  The waitress kept trying to get JH to talk to her and finally bent down and gave him a kiss; it was odd but also sweet.  I had a last minute meeting so we rushed home and JH and Da Da went to the water park.  Da Da said JH wanted NOTHING to do with the water park; he preferred playing in the kids park with Da Da.

After work we moved some free pavers Neil scored for us and JH helped.  I kept giving him small pieces and asked him to put them on the bridge (about 50 feet away).  It allowed us to move about 2 tons while he moved 4 or 5 small pieces.  Da Da is planning to build a stone patio and path to the garden after we return from vacation.

JH had PB&J for dinner and sat patiently with us watching Sprout (PBS on cable).

Jonathan Day 331

For some odd reason we all slept until 8:00 AM this morning.  I think our 1st Fathers Day was exhausting for all of us.

Da Da and JH knocked around the house this morning because it was pouring outside.  They spent several hours in the basement making a ruckus and tearing the place apart.  I went down in the afternoon to put a load of laundry in and it looked like a bomb went off.

In the afternoon the sun came out and Da Da dressed JH in his worst outdoor clothes and off the went.  In 5 minutes he was covered from the waist down in mud and mulch.  I heard Da Da yelling every few minutes "Jonathan, come on, lets go this way".  I was caught-up with work and finished my last meeting so I went out to rescue Da Da.  JH sat with me on the front porch for a few minutes and when he wanted to jump back in the mud I took him in for a bath.  He played for about 45 minutes and then Da Da came in for his shower.  They dressed and then went to the park.

Seemed like a few hours later and I heard JH singing while walking up the back steps; "Itzy bitzy SPIDER"....
I made dinner and sitting nice just didn't work tonight.  He was wiggling all over while laying with me and beaned me in the eye with a flailing little hand.  He was tired and so were we so Jonathan Harper was in bed by 6:10 PM this evening.

Jonathan Day 330

Today was Fathers Day and it started off quite nicely. The three of us had the pleasure of sleeping in a bit longer than usual. Had a little coffee and Daddy made JH and myself french toast with turkey sausage.

Both Jon and I told JH to go tell Daddy and DaDa happy Fathers Day. MMMMM, not so lucky. I got a few happy birthdays but JH couldn't quite get out fathers day. Maybe next year!

After breakfast the three of us went outside and put in a few hours of more mulch. We are soooo close to being finished. JH helped Daddy load the wheel barrels and helped me drive the lawn tractor. He was working his tail of to the point he said "weeew, I need something to drink". So we all took a moment to hydrate.

Okay, enough work, so we headed into town for a Fathers Day lunch. We had lunch at a great little restaurant on the river of a neighboring town. As always the food was great and JH was on! As you can see from the above pictures JH was making quite the faces.

After lunch we headed into Mishawaka to get a few last minute things for JH's birthday party. Then we headed to uncle Michaels for dinner. Kiki and Michael made the three of us a healthy delicious dinner in honor of Fathers Day.

As always every day must come to an end, so we headed home. Showers, sit nice time and off to bed we went.

Okay, on a side note I would like to say thank you to all of our family and friends for the many great wishes on this special day. The love an support that you all share time after time is greatly appreciated and will never be forgotten.

To date I have to say being a father is one of the best things that has ever happened to me. Jon and I have a great life, but the addition of Jonathan has impacted our lives like no other. The three of us have this family thing down and it feels very natural.

Both Daddy and I look forward to many more Fathers Days!

Jonathan Day 329

A chip clip and a cheap thin towel make a great cape with a hood.


Today is Saturday and why Da Da and I thought we would be able to sleep n I'll never know!  JH started fussing at 5:30 AM and Da Da moaned that it was my turn, he had been up three times during the night.  I had no clue and slept like a baby until he nudged me.  I walked in and asked JH what the problem was and he said he had to potty.  Interesting because is pull-up weighed about two pounds.  After he dribbled I put Thomas on and hoped to return to my blissful sleep; didn't happen.  I started thinking and 5 minutes later I turned on the coffee.

I made scrambled eggs with turkey and cheese and toast for breakfast.  JH ate all his and then started picking off our plates.  I guess missing dinner last night left his belly a little empty. After breakfast we all went out and finished about 50% of the remaining mulch spreading.  It was backbreaking and having JH there to help surprisingly didn't really help :-)  Though he did help Da Da drive the tractor.

My Niece Sidney was having a graduation party in the Chicago suburbs so we decided the mulch could wait and cleaned-up and jumped in the car.  We removed Jonathan's video player a few weeks ago so we're all talking so much more when driving.  Two hours later and an Aleve each for Da Da and Daddy and we were there.  It was nice to see JH play with all the kids and get to meet some new people.  My Ex-Brother-in-law Doug was there with his wife Janet and I was really happy they got to meet Jonathan  Doug was my Brother-in-law for so long (I was about 12 when he and Jo married) that I was proud to be a daddy in front of him.  He and Jo were such great parents and probably did a little parenting on me too.

We left in the late afternoon and drove to IKEA to get a few party items for the big birthday bash next week.  JH walked nice with us the entire store and was a really good boy.  He said a few times that he was having fun.  On the remaining drive he started singing some song that we have never heard and I'm not sure there were even real words.  I have a terrible voice and would rather be flayed than to sing in front of people, I don't think it helped that my Mom used to tell me as a kid to STOP SINGING!  I want JH to sing his little heart out and not be ashamed of expressing himself in a positive way.

Dinner happened pretty late tonight so JH just went to bed 10 minutes ago.  Da Da was helping him get his PJs on and JH did something like put his leg in the wrong hole and said "Oh, sorry Scoop"; where does he get these sayings?  Who the heck is Scoop and where did he hear that?

I love being a Daddy!

Jonathan Day 328

Today was more of a day for Daddy and DaDa.

I set the alarm clock for 5:45 a.m. so I could get a little coffee in my system before waking JH up. LOL.... a few minutes after my alarm went of I hear JH talking away.

So, JH and I were off and running. The coffee was just not catching up to the energy of JH. After about 30 minutes I whispered into Jonathan's ears "go wake Daddy up", "okay" said Jonathan . I was able to slam a cup of coffee down and work on a second before I saw Daddy and JH walking out of the bedroom.

Today was a big day for Daddy, DaDa and JH. JH spent 8 hours at Miss Chrysty's, Daddy put in a full day of work without DaDa and JH and I was able to get a good 7-1/2 hours in the yard. I was able to get a good chunk of the work done for JH's birthday party in 7 days from now.

Later in the day, when Jon and I picked JH up from Miss Chrysty's, JH was on.  I worked so hard I had to convince Jon that we needed Frosty's from Wendys!  So off we went. On the way I said "oh my back is killing me", JH in turn, without skipping a beat said "my back is killing me too, both of them". Jon and I looked at each other with a look of like OMG and smirked secretly to ourselves. JH is a piece of work.

When we got home we all observed the work that has been done in the yard and watched Dan finish up seeding the lawn with grass seed and straw.

Tried to have dinner, that's right tried to have dinner. JH was not having dinner tonight. After many attempts, Daddy and I decided that it's okay, we'll wait for breakfast.

We all sat downstairs in the basement and watched a litle Bubble Guppies during our sit nice time and soon there after JH was off to bed.

Jonathan day 327

Tomorrow JH gets to spend 8 glorious hours at Carly's house!

It has been challenging balancing my work and all that Da Da has on his LIST and JH.  This morning he woke-up before us so we heard him chattering on the baby monitor.  I wonder how many more months we'll keep the monitor on?

I spent the morning working while JH colored and played at the table with play-dough.  Da Da connected all the new yard lighting and finished up some planting.   JH started getting a little crazy so he spent about 45 minutes in his room "reading" and playing with "his best friend Thomas".

Da Da came in at lunch and we ate quickly and he shuffled him outside to help with moving mulch.  I looked out 5 minutes after they went out and JH was covered in mud from neck to boots.  He didn't seem to mind; in fact, he was trudging through it rather than walking on the remaining grass.  The yard is TORN-UP due to the new septic.

After work I went out and JH helped me feed the chickens and do a little weeding in the garden.  He was assigned all the weeds in the pea-gravel and I had the raised beds; much safer that way.

We drove to MI city to order the food for Jonathan's 3rd birthday party on June 25th.  We found an amazing Thomas Train cake :-)  On the way home JH gave us another performance of Itsy Bitsy SPIIIIIDER.  We had dinner and a little sit nice time and then JH said "is it time for bed?"; it was.

Jonathan Day 326

Today was a DaDa and JH day. Daddy had a pretty full work day so we headed out pretty early to run some errands.

Started of for Michigan City and got a few more plants as well as a quick trip into Big R. Since they didn't have what we needed we drove to Mishawaka. Okay, so I had no idea how long it would take from Michigan City. 55 minutes later we arrived in the south side of Southbend. JH's exact words "DaDa these people are scary" I replied by saying "yes Jonathan they are". He then gave his cross face as we moved our way to Mishawaka.

We hit the usual stores; Lowes, Home Depot, Dollar Tree, Christmas Tree Store and JC Pennys. I have to say JH was quite the trooper. At Home depot he always requests to get into the shopping cart that is in the shape of a race car. "Push me DaDa, Push me", "faster DaDa, faster". You know what, I love hearing him laugh and enjoy himself so I of course pushed faster and faster.

Okay as if that wasn't enough shopping we ran into Niles. There we hit Tractor Supply company and then Sheltons. JH "more plants DaDa"? I hesitantly said yes. Afterwards was a trip to McDonald's for lunch and a little play in the fun land.

The day was getting away from us so we headed back home for JH's first dentist appointment. As you can see from the photo above JH wasn't quite enjoying himself. They tried every trick in the book but he wouldn't budge to open his mouth. We are going to try again in 6 months.

When we got home Daddy was still working away so JH and I played / worked in the yard. After I heard "DaDa, help, help" I wrapped up the work for the day. JH managed to get himself in quite the pickle. He was berried shin deep in a puddle of mud. I stood there for a moment in disbelief and then started laughing. We hit the garden hose and did a strip down in the garage. JH paraded himself swing in my arms straight to the bath tub. The whole way, "Daddy we are taking showers"!

Clean boy, dinner, sit nice time and off to bed JH went.

Jonathan Day 325

Our boy is growing like a weed!  When he looks like he's getting a little belly we always wait a week or so and measure him.  For all the people that said not rush because it goes too fast, you're right.  The things that come out of this boys mouth just kill us.

JH had a quick breakfast and so Da Da could get to finishing his pond, I drove JH to Carly's house.  He wanted to get in and out of the car seat by himself; I don't mind but it takes so much longer.  JH sees something and gets distracted so what should take 1 minute takes 5.

Da Da finished the pond and since I had a 2:00 PM call he had to run and get JH.  On the way home Da Da told JH that he loved him and he said "Oh, I love Christy".   We only have about 30 days left before Christy and family move so we're all very sad.  I know JH will miss all of them very much.  Once they got home my call was over so I put him on the potty and tried to get him to nap; no luck.

We just had dinner and now JH is sitting nice watching Bubble Guppies.

Jonathan Day 324

This morning was an eventful day for JH. We woke up a bit later than usual and had him at Miss Christys before he knew it.

Miss Christy and her husband Phill took the kids to the beach today. The above picture is of Jonathan at the beach this morning. As you can see he was having a blast. Miss Christy made a comment when I picked him up on the lines of "JH wasn't affraid of the sand, he dove right in!" That's JH for ya. LOL

On our way home he kept saying "I have tons of sand DaDa". So the second we walked in we put JH into the tub. After his bubble bath he took a nap.

Daddy still isn't feeling a hundred percent today. We are hoping to get in to see a doctor sometime this week.

JH and I wanted to give Daddy some quite time so he could finish up his workday and relax. So we headed into Michigan City to return a few things at Lowes and pick up some new plants/bushes for the new pond that I pretty much finished up today. 3 tons of 24-30" boulders and water filled. By tomorrow we will be 100% up and running!

The other day I thought of the perfect accessory to the pond for JH. A remote control boat! Looks like this something I will be looking for.

Home, dinner and bed. Daddy and DaDa are relaxing in the basement. Good night all!

Jonathan Day 323

Seems like Jonathan Harper is always being walked around by some new woman :-)  When Siena Rose visited she led him around holding his hand and here is Abby doing the same thing.

Derek and Mike slept in a little and JH and Abby played in his room until breakfast.  I made them french toast and since they were a little (VERY) loud Derek and Mike got up too.  We all got dressed and walked back in our yard to show our guests the chickens and the garden.  We always hope that visitors will fall in love with our semi rural life and start looking for a weekend place. 

Late in the morning we drove over to town and showed them our Main Street and since it was Flag Day (biggest celebration for Three Oaks), we walked around the festivities.  Abby and JH help hands and really didn't want us grown-ups helping them cross the streets or to guide them.  

After we said our goodbyes I crashed.  I held it together for the 36 hours we had guests but after they left I hit the sofa.  I have a massive sinus infection and was between chills and sweating.  I really have no recollection of the late afternoon or evening yesterday.  I'm incredibly lucky I have a great partner that took care of JH at the same time as trying to make me comfortable.  I'm writing this on Monday morning and feel like I'm at about 50%!  More antibiotics should have me back to normal tomorrow.

Jonathan Day 322

Mike, Abby, and Derek got here in the late afternoon.  Abby and JH immediately started playing while the dads enjoyed an afternoon cocktail :-)

Jonathan and Abby played really well together while we got caught-up and chatted.  It was a little chilly outside so we spent the entire visit on Saturday in the basement other than when we had dinner.  Jonathan and Abby watched a movie while the adults had dinner.  Mike and Derek have friends that have a weekend place near so they joined us for dinner.   It was so amazing to have an adult evening!  The kids played and we were able to have varied conversations that didn't always lead back to Jonathan and Abby.

I'll write more on Sunday in a few minutes in Jonathan Day 323

Jonathan Day 321

Daddy and Da Da have NOTHING left in us; and it has nothing to do with Jonathan.  We're having our septic replaced and the yard is a mess!  Not only is the yard a mess but we're trying to get ready for the big 3rd birthday party in 2 short weeks.

The septic guys planned on being here at 7:00 AM so we all got up early and Da Da had JH to Carly's house by about 8:00 AM.  We were running around trying to get laundry, dishes, and potty done before they pumped the old septic and disconnected the waste lines.  JH was oblivious and only wanted to play with his new tractor Grampa gave him last week.

Da Da picked JH up at 2:00 PM and they came home to watch "Dan the man" (septic guy) dig holes with the tractor.  Dan told us we would only go without a bathroom for two hours and finally at 7:00 PM we are able to flush.  It's hard explaining to a 2 year old that we REALLY want potty trained that he can't flush the potty.  Luckily JH didn't have too much business that needed to stay in the toilet all day.

We had dinner out at a place in Buchanan called Wheatberry that was fantastic!  Kid friendly and the food was fast and awesome.  JH is excited because Abby and her dads are visiting us tomorrow and they are staying the night.  That means that Abby will get the second bed in Jonathan's room while Daddys and Da Das will have the wireless monitor sitting by the new fore pit enjoying a glass of wine :-)

Pre-bed JH watched Dora for a little bit before I changed the channel.  I have been noticing that many of the cartoons talk about how some baby something is looking for their Mommy or Mommy is looking for them.  I'm sure I'm being too sensitive but I'm not sure if he understands and I'm not ready to try and explain.

Jonathan Day 320

Today started off as a wet one.

Jonathan was dry, but it was raining cats and dogs outside. The rain was so relaxing that we over slept. We had 45 minutes to get up and do our morning rituals. Needless to say, we had to call Miss Christy and tell her that we would be 30 minutes later.

When I picked JH up this afternoon, he and Miss Christy were in the front lawn. Miss Christy was telling me that they all walked up to the library this afternoon and went to the free book sale. JH got a book about a snail. He loves it!

Miss Christy said that the kids got onto the computers at the library and when she approached him JH said "get out of my office"! I couldn't help but laugh as she told me this. Sometimes I don't know where he comes up with things but in this case I do. Daddy has his computer in his office and when Jonathan tries going in there he is told to stay out of Daddy's office. The fact that he put those two things together blows my mind.

JH was quite the helper in helping me clean the garage this afternoon. We emptied it out completely washed down the trim and mopped the floor. Later Daddy finished up his work day and we headed out to get a pie for our guests this weekend. JH insisted on taking his new book. The book hasn't left his side since i picked him up this afternoon.

Along the way, we stopped by Uncle Michael's to give Kiki a few things that we found while cleaning out the garage. Kiki was making something delicious for dinner so we didn't stay long. We drove up to Sawyer Garden Center to get a pie, but no luck. Afterwards to were on a mission for something to eat.

After stopping at a few restaurants along the way home, we ended up at McDonald's. LOL!

Home bound, pj's, sit nice time and off to bed we went.

Jonathan Day 319

JH wasn't going to Carly's house today so it was a lazy morning.  I made blueberry pancakes and after he ate two he was done and pushed his plate forward, "I'm done Daddy".

Da Da slathered JH with sunblock since it was 95 here today.  They went out and while Da Da shoveled rock and sand JH "helped".  I went out about 2 hours after they started and JH was sitting on a mountain of sand in the shade burying his truck.  I walked up and he told me that his "wheels are covered" and proceeded to pull it out and spray sand all over his face.  He is such a little ruff and tumble little boy.

JH and Da Da came in and had a quick lunch and it was nap time for them while I worked :-(  Hardest thing about being home with them is not getting to participate in the fun.  On the other hand, I am so damn lucky to get to spend 24 hours a day with the two most amazing people in my life.

After work we visited the chickens, walked around the yard looking at the septic work, and then went to the park.  I made dinner and JH sat nice until 7:30 PM and then it started!  He was pottied, nose blown, lip balmed, and hugged and kissed, 2 minutes later, "I have to go potty" and he did, two minutes later, "I have to poop", and he didn't.  He is getting more and difficult with bedtime :-(

Jonathan Day 318

Today was a productive day!

We were up early. JH was awake at 5:45 a.m. and Daddy and I weren't ready to get up quite yet. When I walked in JH said "I don't want to sleep"! So, I put a video on and said daddy and dada are going to lay down for a little bit. He asked me to close his door. I had to chuckle as I walked back into the bedroom.

A bit later we were all awake and enjoying our morning coffee and cartoons. I had to leave early to go to Niles and rent a concrete saw for the completion of the firepit area. When I got back daddy had JH fed and all dressed for his day at Carly's.

After dropping JH off I came home and finshed capping off the last details to the firepit wall. By the time I finished it was time to pick JH up. When we got home he helped me work on yet another project in the yard. We put wire fencing up for our new chicken coop corral. JH is quite the helper....LOL!

By that point we were drencehed and ready for dinner. It was 95 degrees today with a heat index of well over a 100. After our showers JH had dinner and a little sit nice time.

Jonathan Day 317

It has been one year since Jonathan's mother Jenny passed away.  I dread the day he starts asking about her, I didn't know her at all.  I know she was loved, I know she was beautiful, and I know she gave us the most amazing gift.

Jonathan Harper slept pretty late this morning.  He had french toast and some of Da Da's banana for breakfast.  I had a light morning so I was able to drive JH to Carly's house this morning.  Da Da picked him up at 2:00 PM and after he gave me a hug he went in for a nap.  he slept for about an hour and then Da Da took him to MI City to get a few more cement blocks to complete the new fire pit.  We only have 19 days until the party and much to do!!

After work we spent an hours or so in the yard watering and weeding the garden.  JH was trying to help pull weeds but really wasn't helping when he uprooted a Hen and Chick plant :-(  They are pretty hearty so I just plopped it back in the mulch and it was all good.  We had showers and dinner and now JH is sitting nice with Da Da.  It's funny that 200 days ago we couldn't get this boy to sit for more than a minute at a time, now he sits for at least 30 minutes :-P.

Jonathan Day 316

At 5:30 AM-CT we heard the coffee grinder going and knew it was time to drag ourselves out of bed.  JH was sleeping in Auntie Susie's other guest room with JH.  By the time Da Da and I got out of bed the entire family was already up and drinking coffee.

We met Gramma and Grandpa at a very cool place in Iowa that is tractor themed.  JH sat between Gramma and Grandpa so they can get some good practice in for their week with him late this month.  Da Da and I are taking our very first vacation in more than a year after Jonathan's 3rd birthday party.  We desperately need this vacation!

After breakfast we dropped Auntie Jo Jo off at home and hightailed it to MI.  It was so nice to get home and to see that our new septic work has started.  They removed a good portion of our woods so they can create a 10,000 sq ft drain field.  Da Da, JH, and I started to complete the fire pit and I checked on the chickens.  I found on dead in the coop with his foot missing so I have no idea how that happened.  There is another one missing and no sign of the body!  Maybe a snake??

We all came in and had a quick dinner and put JH to bed about 7:00 PM.  Da Da and I are in the basement catching-up on recorded TV and relaxing after our weekend of 12 hours in a car.

Jonathan Day 315

Today was a productive day for all.

We all woke up relatively early here at Auntie Suzie's. Morning coffee, breakfast and off we went. Auntie Jo Jo, Suzie and Daddy headed to Grandma Rosie's to do some prep work for selling the house and getting ready for a yard sale. JH and I bummed around Burlington for the day.

After hitting Menards, Lowes, the mall, Big Lots and Hobby lobby, JH and I were ready for lunch. We had lunch at Wendys and on our way back to Auntie Suzie's, I had a craving for Dairy Queen. Lets just say that JH and the ice cream got into the fight on the ride back home and the ice cream cone won. JH was covered literally head to toe. I'm not quite sure how such a small cone could tear such a little boy up.

When we got back to the house JH went right in for a bath and after a day out and about, we woke up almost 2 hours later to Daddy returning from Grandma Rosies.

We are all showered from a day of shopping and working. Leaving in a few to take grandma out for a birthday dinner and bed will be shortly there after.

Jonathan Day 314

Jonathan Harper didn't get to sleep very late this morning.  We set the alarm for 6:00 AM so we could get JH ready to go to Carly's by 8:00 AM.  We planned on going to leave MI at 1:00 PM to get to Auntie Jo Jo's to then drive to Auntie Susie's house.  We were in the car for about 6 hours today and this boy was very good; he did have two McDonald's ice-creams and a Wendy's chicken sandwich.

We got to Sue's after 6:30 PM so it was a long day in the car!
Auntie Jojo will take over from here...By the time they got to me in Lake in the Hills they had already been driving over 2 hours. Daddy said JH talked the entire time. My thought was oh how cute. However, after almost 4 more hours for that little man before we got to Iowa I have to say, he sure is a busy little guy!! Never a dull moment. I sat in the back seat with him and we talked, sang, laughed the entire time. Auntie Jojo wishes she had a small amount of his energy!

After we got to Auntie Susie's he played shy for about 5 minutes and that was it...Mr. Personality was back! We had dinner, played and before you know it, it was bedtime. He tried to con one of us into laying down and "snuggling" but we were on to him! Ha...

Now we are chilling and discussing what we will do tomorrow!

Jonathan Day 313

The amazing company I work for has approved a reimbursement of about 1/3 of the total adoption costs.  This my friends, is reason to celebrate!

JH woke-up around 7:00 AM and was dragging  brownie by the corner saying "I want to be a baby".  The best part of after bath and early morning is JH wants to play baby.  He'll lay in your lap for 20 minutes wrapped in a blanket or towel just chatting away.

I made french toast for breakfast and then we got the call; Carly wasn't feeling well so JH was home today.  Da Da had the day planned to mix more concrete and install the posts to the new outdoor chicken pen.  JH helped :-)

We drove to MI City for lunch and to pick-up a few groceries.  Since Da Da has been really good sticking to his diet we had Mexican.  JH was eating chips and salsa ("sauce") saying "this is spicy, can I have more please".  He ate an entire enchilada with rice and beans.
After lunch I finished my work day while Da Da and JH worked in the yard.  Da Da said he kept mixing things in a bucket saying "taste it Da Da, is it good?".

After showers and a little Team Umizoomi JH gave us hugs and kisses and has been sleeping since.