next stop: Sadie's 1st Birthday Photos

Hi Friends,

What is your next stop this weekend?

Our big event this weekend .... Sadie's 1st Birthday Photos / Family Photos with Erin Carlyle Photography!  It is my job as Super Big Brother to make her smile and laugh for her photos.  This will be our 6th time to take photos with Erin (maternity x 2, my newborn, my first birthday, and Sissy's newborn).  We (aka Mommy) don't want to spoil all of our photo surprises, but we have a sneak peek for you today - Sissy's birthday shirt, hat, and bib by Little One Boutique (Mommy's 3rd time to use Little One).

All Images: Tara Johnson / Mad Max and Family

And this weekend we are also going to continue to enjoy heirloom tomatoes from Whole Foods.  I think I prefer mine on just toast since that is my fav food of choice lately (and Mommy makes me all kinds of good toast like DINOSAUR toast).

But Daddy also made this week... a pressed sandwich with heirloom tomatoes (tortilla, homemade black bean burgers, hummas, and salsa) and veggie soup with heirloom tomatoes (and also kale, carrots, sweet potatoes, chick peas, white beans, and spices).

How are you enjoying your heirlooms this week?  Did you know how many different kinds there are ... ??  Thank you Whole Foods for sharing this info with us!

Varieties and pairings:

Cherokee Purple: Very large beefsteak variety that is purple or very dark red.  It has a deep flavor and firm, dense texture that stand up to slicing.  Serve brined cheeses such as feta or with a sweet drizzle of honey.  Similar varieties include Black Krim.

Marvel Stripe: A large beefsteak variety that is yellow with an interior blush.  It’s mild, sweet and fruity with low acidity; juicy and soft.  Wonderful for gazpacho, paired with balsamic vinegar as a tomato relish or with earthy clothbound cheddar cheese.  Similar varieties include Striped German and Georgia Streak.

Brandywine: This large beefsteak variety can be pink or yellow.  It is sweet with low acidity; this is considered a “slicing” tomato with excellent texture.  It’s perfect for sandwiches, used as the base of a fresh summer salad or paired with the creamy saltiness of Parmigiano Reggiano cheese.  Similar varieties include Pruden’s Purple.

Evergreen: Medium to large, this beefsteak variety is green even when ripe.  Mild and sweet, try making tomato preserves, a sandwich with triple crème brie and baguette or breading and frying slices for fried green tomatoes.  Similar varieties include Green Giant.

Black Prince: A medium-sized, round globe variety that can be purple or very dark red.  Deep and sweetly flavored with firm texture.  Sprinkle wedges with vinaigrette and fresh herbs for a simple treat; pair with Rogue Creamery Oregon Blue to match the tomato’s sweetness with a wonderful blue cheese.  Similar varieties include Japanese Black Truffle.

Sun Gold: Small and will be dark yellow or almost orange.  Tangy and sweet, it’s perfect for an anytime snack, tossing into quick salads, baking on pizzas and flatbreads and pairing with Parrano cheese.  Similar varieties include Yellow Grape.

Black Cherry: Small and will be purple or dark red.  It’s very sweet and great in salads, roasting whole, baking into focaccia and pairing with Monterey Jack for a cream-of-tomato soup flavor combination.  Similar varieties include Pink Cherry, Red Grape and Red Pear.

-Mad Max

PS: Be sure to find us on Mad About Town.

weekend update: End of Summer

Hi Friends,

How are you?

We've been very busy over here ... one thing that we can now reveal that has been taking up some of Train Wreck Mommy's time -- she is transitioning into a new job ...wait for it, elementary art (K - 4)!  I've been helping her out by doing lots of art projects with her.

On that note, Mommy starts her "new" orientation training this week.  We are very sad to see summer end here (although not the heat unfortunately).  I'm sure Mommy will miss us a lot!  Don't worry, Mommy ... I will take care of Super Sadie!  I will entertain her by letting her eat all of my trains.

Anyways ... how was your weekend?  Mommy got a lot of errands done on Saturday (Lakeshore Learning, DSW, Target, Cakelicious for Sadie's cake smash), and Sunday we had a busy morning - church, AN ALL ABOARD CHOO CHOO TRAIN PARTY at Hermann Park (Happy Birthday, A!), and Whole Foods.

Speaking of Whole Foods ... we have some exciting news to share with you! ... but before we get to that, enjoy a photo of our last summer "Art Thursday" at the Menil this past Thursday.

One thing we are looking forward to this week is heirloom tomato season!  Are you going to enjoy heirloom tomatoes this week?  If so, how are you going to enjoy them?  If not... you better not miss this treat.

Whole Foods is celebrating all things heirloom tomatoes August 14 - September 10.  We will also be sharing more information about heirlooms this week.  On Sunday, we also picked up some heirlooms already to start enjoying -- and we are going to bring you our recipes this week.  Do you think even Super Sadie will enjoy some heirloom tomatoes?  I bet so!

Hot for heirlooms: (from Whole Foods)

-Heirlooms are classic varieties that are prized today because of their intense flavors, vibrant colors, and unique shapes.  They’re delicate, so they must be handpicked and packed.

-When shopping for heirloom tomatoes, be sure to choose tomatoes that are heavy for their size and store them on the counter at home – not in the refrigerator.

-Remember that heirlooms ripen quickly, so buy frequently and enjoy soon after purchase. Size and shape have no correlation with quality; large or small, they’re all delicious!

-Whole Foods Market carries a wide selection of organic heirloom tomatoes.

Be sure to check back on Wednesday, and we will share more about varieties and pairings (and we will share our recipes soon this week too!).

-Mad Max

PS: Be sure to visit us at Mad About Town.

Super Sadie's Crazy Cherry Update

Hi Friends,

Sadie here ... How was your week?

We've (Max and Mommy) obviously have had a really hard time keeping up with my Weekly Updates, ahem.  And we've had a few things pop up on us this week too (to make matters worse / less time).

But we would still like to bring you some sort of update ... so here it goes quickly!

Image Credit: Mad Max and Family / Tara J

Sadie's Week Who Knows Update Almost 9 Months (whatttttt!?!?!)

Weight: Well, I had to go to the doctor last week (and my brother too) for being sickly.   I only weighed 17.2 lbs!

Height: Not sure.  Obviously very tall!  (Probably average).

Health: See note above about the doctor.  Both myself, my brother, and Train Wreck Mommy came down with something last week ... my FIRST time to be sick, and my FIRST fever.  Turns out it was a cold / viral infection (and ear infection for Max).

Sleep: Let's not even go there right now.  Okay ... well Mommy has me to about one morning nap and one to two afternoon naps around the same time.  Where I sleep is hit or miss!  I sleep w/ my Mommy mostly at night, but that is mostly her fault.  Why would she want to sleep without me??  The good news is ...the last few nights I slept very well.  When I was sick, not so much.

Diet: Mommy's milk only and ... I'm eating all kinds of stuff now!  Daddy makes my food, I also eat puffs, and I eat some small table food / cut up pieces.  You did see me eating delicious (Whole Foods) cherries this week, right?

Social: Summer with Mommy?  When I am NOT social!  Monday was music class with Max.  Tuesday was the Toddler Time at the library w/ Mommy, Max, and YaYa.  Thursday we went to Moody Gardens (our first trip to the beach - well, Palm Beach) with Mommy, Max, Mimi, and the cousins.

Clothes: I can still fit in some 6 months clothes.  I really should probably be wearing 9 months plus clothes mostly though.

Baby Gear: I don't think Mommy has bought anything new to rave about lately, but she has several things on her list.  Yay for shopping!  Mommy is always loving her Ergo of course.  If you are looking for a baby carrier, the Ergo is really the ONLY one you should even consider (besides a wrap of course).

Crying: If Mommy leaves, time for me to pitch a FIT!

Likes: Putting EVERYTHING in my mouth!  It is so delicious.  I love also crawling really fast to electrical outlets and brother's small toys.  I also like pulling up on everything and "scaring my Mother."  And lately - I love water!  I love splashing in the bath with brother.

Postpartum: From Mommy - I'm just trying to survive.  And how are you!?

Milestones: So many ... first sickness, first beach day today ... OH the other night Mommy said "mama" and I said "mama".  Then she said "dada" and I said "dada".  So easy to please, isn't she?

What is Max Up To This Week?: Bringing lots of joy to myself and Mommy and Daddy!  He's such a hoot!  Lately he's focused on trying to go potty, playing with trains, and watching Caillou.  Tough life!

So how are you?  What is your update??

Stay tuned... this weekend we are going to make some cherry recipes to share with you, and some cherry-inspired kids art projects!  If you are in Houston, don't forget to head to Whole Foods for their Cherry Fest!

-Super Sadie of Mad Max and Family

PS: Be sure to visit us at Mad About Town.

next stop: Sweet Cherry Fest

Hi Friends,

How are you?  What is your next stop this weekend?

We don't have anything major planned this weekend (that I am currently remembering!), but we are gearing up for a small out-of-town vacation next week - next stop, our first trip as a family to San Antonio and Sea World!

But I know we also will make a stop at the Cherry Fest at Whole Foods this weekend.  We have a really nice crate of cherries we are enjoying this week (we as in Mommy, Daddy, and really SISSY of all people since I am enjoying meals of air and cereal this week) from Whole Foods.  Thank you!

Are you enjoying cherries this season?  How do you enjoy them?  I think my family prefers them just how they come! ... even Super Sadie, can you believe it?  But Mommy wants to try out some other creative ways to enjoy cherries, and we'll share that with you soon.  Any suggestions on how to enjoy them?  (We were also thinking - how can we make cherry-inspired art?!)

In the meantime, please enjoy some fun facts and foodie ideas about cherries from Whole Foods.

Image Credit: Mad Max and Family / Tara J

Where are my cherries, MAMA!? ... says Sissy.  (Notice Sadie's lovely cherry dress from Carter's).

Yes, your little one might also enjoy some fresh cherries.  Sadie is also working on her pincher grip!

Or ask your Mommy or Daddy to blend your cherries up with some apple sauce!  Mmm, Sadie ate this whole batch tonight (with a side of sweet potatoes).

From Whole Foods Market Houston:

Know your cherries
Several varieties can be found in stores throughout the summer. Each is uniquely delicious; try them all to determine your favorite!

Bing: The best-known variety grown in the U.S., appreciated for its intensely sweet, vibrant flavors.

Staccato: A large, late-season variety, this super-sweet fruit is dark red, almost black in color.

Rainier: Large cherries with a golden color and a pink or red blush, pure yellow flesh and firm, fine texture. With their delicate flavor and extraordinary sugar levels, these are considered by many to be THE best cherries!

Skeena: Large round cherries with dark round skin. This later-season variety is known for its juicy sweetness.

Sweetheart: A late-season variety with dark red flesh and skin. It’s heart-shaped, of course!


Cooking uses and ideas:
· Breakfast—Sweeten up your morning and add some cherries to pancakes, toss them into your oatmeal or yogurt or bake them into a granola bar to keep you full on the go.

· Salad— Mix cherries with walnuts, zesty vinaigrettes, and spinach for a light meal or combine it wild rice for a different spin on salad.

· Grilling—Throw them on the grill or add a sweet cherry sauce to make pork chops or any other meat choice have an extra kick

· Desserts— Add cherries to a pie or toss them into an ice cream sundae for a quick summer treat.

· Drinks—Chop and blend cherries up with your other favorite fruits for a healthy smoothie, coolers, and maybe your own homemade cherry lemonade.

More to come about cherry season and our delicious cherries from Whole Foods!

-Mad Max

Be sure to also find us on Mad About Town.

weekend update: National Eat a Train Month?

Hello Friends,

Happy July! How are you?

Mommy said July is one of her favorite months (ahem, okay, Mommy we get it – your birthday). Are you enjoying July? We sure are … although our first week of July was spent sick (me, Mommy, AND Sissy had a cold. And I had an ear infection). It was Sissy’s first time to be sick (first fever, first cold)! And since we were sick … we spent a lot of time at home / inside, and we spent some extra time with the Grandparents (thank you for your help!). How did you spend your holiday weekend?

A few highlights from us …

1) We spent Sadie’s first 4th of July with family at Ya Ya and Pop’s. Mommy and Daddy let me stay up to watch 4th of July Fireworks for the first time! I waved a flag and yelled yay! Fireworks! (What else am I suppose to do?). Happy Birthday America! (Sissy prefers to eat trains over hot dogs). Sissy's 4th of July outfit was from Target mostly, and mine was from The Children's Place.

2) I made lots of art for the 4th of July. Below is my torn paper collage flag - super easy - you can just use colored construction paper, or tissue paper, or any other paper of appropriate color!

3) I made Cool Whip art with Mommy. Mommy said I am the only kid that wouldn’t probably eat it too (hey, we are plant-strong and healthy over here).

Directions for Cool Whip Paint:
Needed: 

Big Container of Cool Whip (or Whipped Brand of your Choice)
Jello Packets (Colors of your Choice)
Bowls or Containers
Spoons
Black Paper or Other Dark Construction Paper
Paint Brushes (Optional)

Directions: Put some Cool Whip in each bowl (each bowl will be a different color of “paint”). Add some Jello color of your choice to each bowl (Mommy and I did the primary colors – red, yellow, and blue). Stir! Now you are ready to paint. You can paint with your fingers (eww – yucky, I told Mommy) or with paint brushes. We chose to paint on black paper.

We also made our own Rainbow Playdough.  Thank you Tinkerlab for this idea and recipe!

So how did you enjoy this long holiday weekend?

Also ... what are your favorite summer treats? We hope CHERRIES are on your list! We are celebrating cherries this month with Whole Foods and their Cherry Fest (this is peak cherry season, you know!). Stay tuned this week for some of our favorite ways to enjoy cherries!

Image Credit: Whole Foods Market

But in the meantime ... while you are waiting, be sure to mark your calendars (for those of you in Houston) for the upcoming Cherry Fest:

Whole Foods Market’s “Cherry Fest”

When: Friday, July 12 - Sunday, July 14 (12 - 5pm)

What: Celebrate summer with a cherry on top! Join any Whole Foods Market Houston or Sugar Land stores for its third annual Cherry Fest, from Friday, July 12 – Sunday, July 14. Cherries will be in abundance, so now is the time to indulge in these delicious, peak-of-season treats. Whether you want something savory or sweet, or simply like diving into a heaping bowl of chilled cherries you will be able to experience it all during Cherry Fest! There will be plenty of great store activities as well as plump, delicious cherries to taste either one-by one or in the many different cherry-licious recipes that will be available. Don’t miss out!

Where: All Houston Whole Foods Market locations

701 Waugh Dr.; 2955 Kirby Dr.; 4004 Bellaire Blvd.; 6401 Woodway Dr.; and 11145 Westheimer; 15900 Southwest Freeway in Sugar Land, & 6601 S Fry Road in Katy
-Mad Max

weekend update: And so it begins ...

Hi Friends,

Well, we said a few weeks ago we were REALLY BACK.  And obviously we lied.  We will try to do better!  Mommy is balancing many of her own projects (and us (me and Sadie) now during the summer time), but maybe we need to make our blogs a bigger priority.  And how do you keep up?

How was your weekend?

We are very happy to report that last week was our FIRST WEEK OF SUMMER.  How are you enjoying summer?  We definitely had a fun-filled and memorable week.  We wanted to share some highlights with you!

Monday: Outlet mall shopping with Mommy and Ya Ya (A few things for Mommy at Old Navy ... some clothes for me and Sadie at The Children's Place and Carter's ... and I got a prize at Disney)
Tuesday: Toddler Time at our local library with Mommy and Ya Ya
Wednesday: Houston Metropolitan Dance performance at Miller Outdoor Theatre with Mommy and Mommy's friends
Thursday: Art Thursday!  We went to go see a new mural of graffiti art at Green Street.  We also had lunch at Phoenicia with Mommy's friend, Daddy, and Daddy's co-worker.
Friday: Lunch with Mommy, Pops, and Ya Ya.

We were really out and about.  But we also did lots of fun projects at home - including trying some Pinterest activities out.

How is your summer?  What are you up to?

By the way, we are still working really hard to organize our digital files so it's a little difficult for us to work with our photos right now.  But please enjoy a few iPhone photos today in the meantime!

Image Credit: Mad Max and Family / Tara J

The first photo of Sissy and her bestie, O, at the graffiti mural.  The second one is of me dressing up as a man.  Obviously.

-Mad Max

PS: Be sure to visit us at Mad About Town.

next stop: Super Sadie's 7 Month Birthday and Summer

Hi Friends,

Happy 7 Month Birthday to Super Sadie!  She is 7 Months Old today exactly (May 22).  How did this HAPPEN?  The last part of her big first year ... and we have so many adventures to look forward to.  We don't have her 7 Month Birthday photos to share because we have to take those today (Wed).  Stay tuned!

There are also a few other huge birthdays this week ... Tia Tam's big 3-0 was Monday.  Happy Birthday, Tia Tam!  And Pops is on Saturday - Happy Birthday, Pops!  We love you both!

We usually ask ... what is your next stop this weekend?  One big thing we are looking forward to is Mommy said we might get to go swimming at our "resort" - Sadie's first swim! ... but mainly we are looking forward to our next big stop - summer!  About 1 and 1/2 weeks.  Can ... we ... make ... it?

But to celebrate Super Sadie's 7 Month Birthday Today ... I have ...

7 Random Things I Love About My Sissy

Image: Mad Max and Family / Tara J

Note: This image is a little more blurry than we thought it would be!  Mommy and I need more rest, obviously.  And we are too tired / busy to look for another one!

1 - She knows how to crawl like a champ now - and right to my toys.  Thanks for always finding my trains, Sissy.

2 - She's the best bath time buddy until she goes after my toys and takes up all of my space.  Hey!  Mine!

3 - She lets me feed her now!  I'll sneak you a cookie one of these days, Sissy.

4 - She let's me sing to her.  And she loves going with me to music class.

5 - She always laughs at me ... or with me?  One of those.

6 - She lets me give her lots of big kisses and hugs.

7 - I'm her favorite person!

Mommy tells me almost each and every day "take care of your sister, always."  I nod my head and say, "Okay, Mommy."

We love you, Sissy!

-Mad Max

PS: Be sure to find us at Mad About Town.

Sadie's Week Who Knows?! Update

Hi Friends,

Note: We tried to post this last Friday morning (Thursday night), but Super Sadie woke up and well... here we are!  It's the thought that counts, no?

Okay, so we didn't do so well with our Wednesday blog, but please stay with us here.  Two more weeks until Mommy's summer break from school!

So I (Sadie) am officially 6 months now ...going on 7 months next week!  How the ... did this happen?!?!?  So what week am I now...?  Well, who really knows, and Mommy and I are too tired to count tonight.  But I will be 7 months officially on May 22nd!  Wow.

So how has your week been?

Image Credit: Mad Max and Family / Tara J

Sadie's Week WHO KNOWS Update

Weight: Well, first ... remember how Mommy use to take photos of me on my back?  Well, there is no stopping me now.  Photos like that are hard to come by now!

Not sure about weight.  I was a lil over 15 lbs at my 6 months check up (Mommy is too lazy / busy to look it up right now, wow).  We are going to guess about 16 or 17 maybe?

Height: Not sure.  We'll get back to you on that one.  Actually both of these stats are written down on something that is in my closet, that is in the room where Max is sleeping... yep, Train Wreck family.

Health: Knock on wood again - almost 7 months, and I haven't ever been sick!  (Meanwhile, brother has a fever this week.)

Sleep: I was doing really well at night ...but then Mommy moved me out of my bassinet, and then we moved.  I've been waking up, and I've been wanting to sleep with Mommy.  And Mommy has been too tired to do much different right now (hah!  Tricked her!).

But Mommy is starting to slowly work with me more at night, and she said in a few weeks when summer starts, she is going to focus on it.

As far as at the Grandparents... I've been doing better at Mimi's in my bed.  I think I like my swing at Ya Ya's.  I have them all fooled, obviously.

At night I sometimes also roll on my tummy to sleep.  Then crazy Mommy hovers over me, and she wakes me up.

Diet: Liquids - I've only ever had Mommy's milk!  Yay for making it to 7 months.  Mommy and I are shooting for a year.

I didn't have food until I turned 6 months - way to hold out on me.  My first food was rice cereal that Daddy made (Daddy makes all of my food).  I also have tried sweet potatoes, rice, bananas, and apples.  We will try new things this week too.  So far my favorite is apples.  And sweet potatoes.  I'm also eyeing Mommy's chocolate.

Social: I don't go too many places during the weekdays with the Grandparents, but Mommy and Daddy sure do keep me busy on the weekend.

Last weekend wasn't anything too unusual - we hung out a lot with family to celebrate Mother's Day (Happy Mother's Day to my Mommy and ALL the Mommies!).  And we went to Froberg's Farm to pick strawberries!  (My second time to go there).  This time Mimi and Grampi went with us.

Clothes: I'm pretty much in 6 months + clothes, although still squeezing in some 3 - 6 months clothes.  Tear!  In these photos I'm in a Carter's outfit.

Baby Gear: Last weekend Mommy bought me a little seat to eat in (and sit in).  Max is still in a high chair (although probably transitioning soon to a booster - so much easier to keep that crazy brother confined though... haha.  And we will probably eventually buy me a new high chair, but we are temporarily in a small apartment, so a small seat works for now.  And this new seat is SO much better than the Bumbo!  We high recommend.  So what is it?  The Mamas and Papas Baby Snug!  I actually preferred to get the seat that changed into a booster seat, but it was not available in the store or on-line.

Crying: I think I've been crying less at the Grandparents.  Mimi has told Mom I haven't cried at all a few times.

But basically I like to cry (sometimes) if I'm not near Mommy.  It keeps her in check!

Likes: So many new likes since we last talked!  I love being on my stomach, rolling around, sitting at on my own, moving to the sitting position on my own, getting in crawling position...doing push ups and so on.  I take baths with my brother now, and I really like swimming on my stomach.  I have ZERO fear of the water!  I can't wait until my first swimming experience.  We have a pool at our resort home (temporary home) so we will do that soon (it's going in the 90s this week).  I also really like playing with brother, and basically holding or chewing on anything.

Postpartum: From Mommy - not really too much new to report.  I am looking forward to summer break to get some more rest and catch up on a LOT of things.  I'm still losing hair, and still trying to get into a better eating and exercising habits.  What are your tips?

Milestones: So many since we last talked!  Many are mentioned above.  I'm keeping Mommy, Daddy, and Brother on their toes (and me, sometimes in plank position).  The biggest one this week is CRAWLING!  As of Thursday, 5/16 - I started making small crawling steps.  Then as of Saturday (5/18) I started crawling!  So much easier to get places that way.  I also had avocado for the first time on Saturday - the best so far!  Serve me up a margarita with that next time, please.

What is Max Up To This Week?: What is he NOT up to this week?  That is the question.  My big brother was off and on feverish this week, but nothing alarming enough to take him to the doctor.  He's talking up a storm, and he's making me laugh like crazy.

-Super Sadie of Mad Max and Family

PS: Be sure to visit us at Mad About Town.

fun monday: Mommy! No pants!

Hi Friends,

Happy (Late) Mother's Day!  How was your Mother's Day?  What did you do for your Mom?

We (Sadie and I - Max) spoiled our Mommy with plenty of tears, pee, and poo, and Toms Loves Moms.  What more can she ask for?

Sorry we've been so MIA.  What have WE missed?  And what have you missed? ... lots... Basically Mommy's excuse is ... the move, getting sick, still coughing, Super Sissy not sleeping as well as she was (before the move and before the pack and play) ... end of the school year, exhaustion, too busy, etc.  But we are committed to doing better, AND summer is only three weeks away!  (So that brings me to the title of this blog ... don't you ever sometimes just NOT want to wear pants?  We are just ready to sit at home and well, not wear pants.)  So how do you keep up with everything?

Besides all of the above ... our weekends have been crazy!  We couldn't even update you without taking a year.  Mommy keeps us very busy with all kinds of fun things to do out and about.

But I look forward to updating you on Sissy's latest (and my latest)... what is exciting in her world lately?  Well, now she is in her second half of her first year.  She is just recently taking a bath with me.  Umm.  Joy.  She is also eating food now.  Luckily she hasn't moved on to my type of food because well, it's MINE.  She is also moving around pretty well and sitting, but she isn't crawling yet.  Thank goodness because all of the toys are MINE.

What about you?  What have you been up to?  We plan to / hope to be back on Wednesday - so please stay tuned!

We will leave you with a photo Mommy took of us in the bluebonnets (Sadie's first bluebonnet photos).  Not the best bluebonnet patch (they were at Memorial Park), but we didn't have time to go to the Hill Country to get better photos.  If you aren't from Texas, you may not know - bluebonnets are our much beloved state flower!  Google bluebonnet photos, and you will see what the big deal is ... And don't you love our babyGap "Peter Rabbit" collection Easter outfits?

Happy Spring!

-Max

PS: You can also find us at Mad About Town.

fun monday: Is It Summer Yet?

Hi Friends,

We hope you are well!  How was your weekend?

Where have we been?  Well, Mommy is "drowning" ... so we've obviously been taking care of her.  Between packing, moving to our temporary home, not knowing where our computer / charger was, Mommy getting sick (and still sick), Mommy busy at work and home, going out of town ... (and so on and so forth).

So with all of that said ... we still don't have a lot of time right now to update you, but Mommy said things might get better in about a week.  And even better, LESS THAN TWO MONTHS UNTIL SUMMER.  Is anyone else looking forward to summer (for different or similar reasons?)!

So a quick update ... we went to Austin this weekend (Sissy's first trip to Austin!) for Daddy's (and Mimi's) race (Austin 1020 - 10 miles, 20 bands ... this is their second annual time to do it!)  Congrats to Dada and Mimi!  They BOTH did great - ranked high.  Daddy was number 11 in over 200 people in his age group.

We were only in town Saturday and Sunday - a quick visit, but we did get to do some of our favorites - Kirby Lane for lunch.  Zilker Park playground and TRAIN - choo choo ALL ABOARD (that's my favorite saying lately).  AND there happened to be a Fire Truck and a real Fire Man at the park.  He gave us fire helmets!  We also got to visit our favorite Whole Foods - TWICE (and Sadie accidently participated in her first Flash Mob).  And of course the highlight was their race!

We didn't have time to go through all of our photos right now, but we wanted to share a few gems with you.

Image Credit: Mad Max and Family / Tara J

Sadie's first swing ride at 5 (almost 6) months.  Sissy loved it!

The family after the race.  Mommy said it's a horrible photo of her, but you just look Asian, Mom!  And she wants me to tell you the weather wasn't great, and it was VERY WINDY.  By the way, Mommy - you aren't wearing pants.

We also wanted to share a quick retro look back ... Mommy said she doesn't ALWAYS remember exact photos of first moments, but this one she does (of my first swing ride).  Speaking of looking Asian - check out THIS photo below.  My first swing ride was after a birthday party (I was around 7 months).  When I smile or laugh, I have Asian eyes too, Mommy!  Too funny.  And to prove to you that I didn't always have Asian eyes as a baby, check out the other photo below from the same month.

So how was your weekend?  Any swinging?

-Mad Max

PS: Be sure to check us out on Mad About Town.

Sadie's Week 19 - 20 - 21 Update

Hi Friends,

How was your week?  Or WEEKS in our case?  We are an absolute mess lately.

Moving in about a week.  But beyond that ... we just need to make it until June!  Or at least that is what Mommy says.

So I turned 21 weeks on Monday!  And I have a big birthday this week - 5 Months on Friday.  Happy Birthday to me!  We will share my 5 Month Update soon.

Image Credit: Mad Max and Family / Tara J

Sadie's Week 21 Update

Super Sadie at 19 Weeks:

Super Sadie at 20 Weeks:

Super Sadie at 21 Weeks:

Weight: I'm thinking I'm pushing 15 lbs now.  Or close to it.  What is your guess?

Height:  Maybe almost 25 inches?

Health: Knock on wood - I haven't even been sick yet (except a yeast infection diaper rash.  Well, that sounds pretty sick to me!)

Sleep: I slept pretty great with Mommy when she was home with me for Spring Break.  I need my Mommy!  But the good news is ... I am sometimes doing better with the Grandparents during the week.

At night ...many nights I sleep through the night (from about 8:00 pm until about 4:00 am when I want to eat - sometimes later).  Sometimes I wake up a few times.  Sometimes at night I go down right away and just sleep - sleep - sleep.  Sometimes at night I have a crying fit, but I eventually go to sleep.

One big thing that happened ... on the last Sunday of Spring Break (3/17) my LUCK ran out with my bassinet.  Mommy passed on my (and Max's) bassinet to a friend that is having a baby in April.  Bye bye Bassinet!  For now I am in my pack and play, and I haven't really had any issues with it.  Finally - hello, more room!  Mommy was sad though to move on from my bassinet.

But she is now going to start crib shopping.  We are looking for a modern white crib - not too terribly expensive.  Any suggestions?

Diet: Same - just Mommy's milk!

Social: I was super social Spring Break week as you might have read in our previous post.  This week I've just been with the Grandparents while Mommy is at work so I don't have anything new to report.

 I know I have spit up on my face above, and I know Mommy should have moved brother's Legos ... but either way, don't you love my flying picture?

Clothes: Mommy washed all of my 6 months clothes (I don't have too many - hint hint hint Tia Tam and Grandparents hahaha ... also Mommy said she is going to spoil me with some new clothes soon.  I do however have a lot from my brother, but Daddy keeps saying "she is dressed like a boy!"  No, I am just liked a mini human.  What does it mean to be dressed like a boy?).  I'm still wearing some of my 3 - 6 months clothes, but she put away most of my 3 months clothes.  Tear, Mommy says!

The 19th Week photo has an outfit from Gap.  The next two Weeks the outfit is from Carter's.  Mommy is a train wreck and put me in the same outfit both weeks. Actually she wants me to tell you, that she had a different / nicer (not just a onesie) outfit for my photos ...but I would either throw up or poo all over them.  Mommy said she snaps photos when she can since she is also busy watching brother!

Baby Gear: Ya Ya got the monkey I am holding in many of the photos - Miyim Simply Organic Lovie.  I love my monkey!  What type of lovie does your baby have ...?

Crying: Well, the opposite of crying - I am smiling and laughing in the photo above - at my brother of course!  He is really my favorite person.  I always smile and laugh at him.  Mommy has had a hard time getting a photo of me smiling (see: watching two babies), but she loves this one she caught!

Nothing out of the ordinary as far as crying for me... I sometimes still need to cry to go to sleep.  If I cry during the day it's usually because I am sleepy.

Likes: I LOVE eating my toes now.  I also love being outside.  I love when Mommy wears me.  I love to watch Daddy read at night during bedtime stories.

Postpartum: From Mommy - About the same.  Hair falling out, and now my face is breaking out - joy!  I'm still trying to now focus on watching my diet and trying to exercise more.  It isn't easy to fit it in - esp working FT!  Any tips?  (Working FT plus two babies = not easy.  Not fun.  Not ideal.  Anyone else agree?)

Milestones: I think the biggest ones are growing out of clothes (see above), and I am now eating my toes.  I think we forgot to write down the exact date of this.  Mommy says - Mommy guilt!  I also sat in a bouncey seat for the first time at Ya Ya's house.  Mommy's going to get a new one for our new (temporary) house.  Mommy and I think we had one more bigger milestone, but now we are forgetting. (See trying to juggle working FT and two babies, above).

What is Max Up To This Week?: He continues to be obsessed with trains.  Choo choo!  He also now likes Curious George in addition to Caillou.  And he's been playing in the Secret Garden at Ya Ya's.  Oh, he also (for the first time - without Mimi) went with Auntie Dana to play with Cousin R at their house for a bit.

How about you?  What are you up to this week?

-Sadie of Mad Max and Family

We Need A Break After Spring Break.

Hi Friends,

How are you?  How was your weekend?  Were you on Spring Break last week?  How was yours?

We were absent from the blog world last week ... enjoying Spring Break with Mommy (me and Sissy). Mommy said we had two main goals last week: have fun with the kidlets (that is me and Sadie June) and purge / pack (and some other minor goals, but Mommy said we would have little time for anything else with our two main goals).

How about you?

We enjoyed so much that it would take us a long time to share it all with you (and the purging / packing ...see more on this below... is keeping us busy)!

The first Saturday of Spring Break we went to the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo with Ya Ya and Pops (Sadie's FIRST Rodeo!).  We had so much fun!  I rode a pony, went to the petting zoo, saw all of the animals in the education area, went shopping, ate rodeo treats, went to the rodeo kids farm, and more.  Sadie had so much fun that she passed out in her Ergo.  Mommy really wanted me to wear my new cowboy boots and my cowboy hat, but she forgot she turned me into an urban baby.  The Wrangler shirt and jeans were about all this City Slicker could handle.

I also had SoccerTots both weekends, and park time.  (Slides are my new favorite thing).

Monday I went with Mommy, Sissy, and Ya Ya to the Kemah Boardwalk.  I had a blast!  It was my first trip there.  I rode the carousel, the hot air balloon ride, the plane - the plane - the plane ride, the train (which was probably my personal favorite), and we played games.  Mommy "won me" a puppy that looks just like Bean.  Won as in everyone walks away with a prize.  That's okay, Mommy - you did a great job!  I also played at their playground, ate lunch, and went shopping.

Tuesday we met Mimi and Auntie Dana and the cousins at Memorial City Mall for some fun.  I played in the play area, and the ladies tricked me into lunch at the American Girl store.  Luckily Mommy made up for it by letting me ride on the carousel.  Carousel!  TWO DAYS IN A ROW!

Wednesday Mommy said she was going to stay in with us, but all of us got antsy.  Mommy's friend V came over, and we walked (yes you heard right), walked to Target and a few other stores.

Thursday we went with V to the MFAH to see the Prado show, and we had lunch with V at Shiva Indian Restaurant in Rice Village.  What did I think of the show?  Well, I personally liked looking for the dogs in the art.  Oh, and the hats.  Sissy on the other hand?  Disinterested.  Napped.  We were by far the youngest ones at the show!  Now the fun doesn't stop there ...

Friday we went with Mommy and her friends on a play date to Chuck E. Cheese's.  Did Mommy spoil us this week or what?  This was only my second time to CEC.  I can't wait to go back!

This past weekend was full of fun too.  Mimi, Peeps, Auntie D, and the cousins came to watch me play soccer.  We celebrated Mimi's birthday afterwards at Ruggles Green (City Centre), and played in their "grass" area.  Everyone is having a blast until you fall flat on your forehead.  Mommy made up for it - she bought us sweets at SWEET.

Whew.

Enjoy a photo from the rodeo!  More photos to come soon.  As we mentioned before... very busy with purging and packing.  We are moving to our temporary home in less than two weeks.  Eep!  Mommy and Daddy are calling it our "resort" while our home is being built (aka an apartment with a pool - I'm not fooled).

With that being said, all of Mommy's technology is FULL - computers, iPhone, iPad, so we have a lot of work to do also on files with the tech so we can share more photos (easily).  Please be patient as we do these big transitions (moving - and organizing files!).

Stay tuned for our next stop this Wednesday, and Sissy's big update(s) on Friday!  Enjoy a photo from the rodeo.

How is your week so far?

-Mad Max

PS: You can also find us on Mad About Town.

Sadie's Week 18 Update / Happy 4 Month Birthday

Hi Friends,

How are you?

My (Sadie's) Week 18 / 4 Month Birthday update is overdue!  (I wanted to post it this past Friday).  I don't know about you, but we are all running on fumes around here for various reasons ... and Max was sick at the end of last week (and still fighting a cold now).  The GOOD news is Mommy's Spring Break starts this next week!  Much needed.

Needless to say, our weekend was somewhat uneventful because of Max's sickness last weekend.  We had to miss soccer, but we found the apt we will be staying in temporarily while our house is being built.  We are moving (as long as everything goes through with the house) at the end of the month.  I don't know if we even mentioned to you that our house was sold in ONE DAY.  That must be a record!  Mommy is starting to think of ways to organize / decorate the apt to keep us all sane without spending too much time or money on it.  Any suggestions?

Other than that, we mostly stayed at home since Max was sick.  Oh, Mommy and I did have a baby shower on Sunday.  Have you been to any celebrations lately?

Image Credit: Mad Max and Family / Tara J

Sadie's Week 18 Update / 4 Month Birthday

First, I PROMISE I smile AND laugh.  But sometimes I like to be real serious.  And Mommy just takes my photos when she can - she is watching my goose of a 2 year old brother, yah know!

Weight: 13 lbs 9 oz (We saw the doc on 2/25 for my 4 month check up so we know my stats exactly!  I'm right around average for both weight and height.)

Height: 24 1/2 inches (Over half way to be able to ride roller coasters!  Says my Daddy ...)

Health: Tip top shape.  We are hoping I don't get what Max has!

Oh, by the way... this photo session shows that Mommy said - no more blanket next time.  Mommy said that I am getting too big and active, and I just make a mess of it!  See above.

Sleep: Same.  Same.  Same.  Oh, one thing is Mommy talked to my doctor about my nap issues at the Grandparents house during the week.  The doc said (who is a believer in CIO) CIO is ONLY for the nighttime.  The baby should decide when the baby is ready to sleep during the day.  She also said I need at least 3 quiet times a day (at least 45 min each) whether I sleep or not (put in a crib / pack and play etc).  What do you think about this philosophy and advice?  The Grandparents keep trying their best!  I'm still sleeping well through the night most nights.

Diet: The doc said I can have food now!  Way to deprive me, Mommy and Daddy ...haha.  I'm still doing Mommy's milk only.  They want to wait so it doesn't affect Mommy's milk supply.  However, Mommy did let me try a teeny tiny bit of her sweet potato the other day (well two days) - delicious!

Social: As mentioned above, I wasn't too terribly social last weekend (or with the Grandparents).  I did however meet some of Mommy's co-workers (and see some of my baby friends) at the baby shower last weekend for the first time.

Mommy likes to call the photo above - Grumpy Cat!

Clothes: Still the same.  But some of the 3 months only clothes are getting too tight.  Mommy is going to break out the 6 months clothes soon - probably this week (Spring Break) when she is purging and packing.

Baby Gear: I started using the Bumbo at Ya Ya's house!  Finally.  Able to sit up.  We need to get a new bumbo for our house, but we may wait until we move - we'll see.

Crying: Nothing out of the ordinary really.  More at the Grandparents.  Sometimes at night.

Likes: I love when Mommy and other people sing to me.  I also love rolling over a lot now.  And I love grabbing things and grabbing my toes!  I'm trying to eat them.

Postpartum: From Mommy - about the same as my update last week.  Things have been CRAZY for me lately - and exhausted, but I'm going to get back into the swing of the gym and such Spring Break week.  I'm going to try not to let other things interfere in the future so I can stay in the routine of it.

Milestones: I rolled over back to front (the harder way) on 2/24!  My doc said that was ahead of schedule since that happens around 5 or 6 months.  I'm quite the mover though.  I also keep grabbing my toes, and I'm trying to put them in my mouth.

A few photos below from my 4 Month Doc Appt:

Hey Ladies, isn't this the best scale ... ?  I weight zero!  Haha.

Mommy asked brother to lay (or is it lie?) on the floor near me to take a photo.  This is what he did.

What is Max Up To This Week?: Max has had a lot of milestones lately himself.  Last night (3/6) he said "I love you!" twice on the phone to Mommy!  And Max says new words and phrases daily.  We can't even keep up.

What about you?  How have you been?

-Sadie of Mad Max and Family

PS: Be sure to check us out on Mad About Town.