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.

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.

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.

next stop: Can I Get A Yeehaw?

Hi Friends,

Update: Mommy and I added on a LOT to this post, and then it was lost ...which makes it very fitting that the original first paragraph was this:

How are you?  Mommy said she is having a CF week so this is going to be short.  Whatever that means!  I'm having a great week playing with my f*cks and b*tches.  Trucks and bridges for those of you born yesterday.

So anyways ... what is your next stop this weekend?  If you are in Houston, are you going to the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo?  If you are not in Houston ... and plan to visit Houston sometime, RODEO time is the best time of the year.  See us (me and Sissy) below in our rodeo gear before the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo parade last weekend.  (I am in ... we think a Carter's shirt and Wrangler jeans.  Sissy is in an outfit from Sheplers).

We actually don't plan to got to the rodeo this weekend, but we do plan to go the following.  What are your plans?  Our plans are the usual SoccerTots, church, Whole Foods (they are having a Street Food Festival too!) ... and Mommy and Sissy have a baby shower to attend.

New Update: I started feeling sick (a cold?) on Thursday ... it may be a weekend of being sick for me.  I guess Mommy was right about washing my hands at the Zoo before I ate my snack.  She always gets me!

Image Credit: Mad Max and Family / Tara J

-Mad Max

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

fun monday: Sadie's Week 17 Update

Hi Friends,

Sadie here ... How was your weekend?

This is my Week 17 update from LAST Monday.  And this past Friday I turned 4 months.  Can you believe it?  The Big 4 and no 0.  (Stay tuned for more photos from my 4 Month Birthday).

So first ... what did we do this weekend?  We had a big one!  Not only was it my 4 month birthday ... but on Friday part of Mommy's work day consisted of professional development of her choice so we went to the museums with Mommy.  We also first had lunch at the Black Lab (British food - thanks for waking me up guys).  Then we went to the Contemporary Arts Museum of Houston and the Cullen Sculpture Garden (The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston).  Mommy said she could do this EVERY Friday.

Saturday we went to the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo parade with "Auntie" Alicen.  Big Bro Max loved the drums in the bands.  Thanks again guys for not waking me up for the parade!  Then Max had his SoccerTots later that afternoon.  Besides our usual this weekend ... we will probably just also head to the park later today (Sunday).

How about you?  What did you do?  (Stay tuned for some photos from my weekend!)

Image Credit: Mad Max and Family / Tara J

Sadie's Week 17 Update

Weight: We go to the doc today (Monday) for my 4 month check up.  I should know the details then.  What would you guess?

Height: See above.

Health: Wonderful so we think!  We should find out more at the doc.

Sleep: I'm doing about the same.  Definitely not great at the grandparents, but I am better at home with Mommy.  We hope things get better all around!  We are continuing to try CIO (cry it out).  In a few weeks, I am going to be transitioning into my pack and play bed at home (and we are giving away our bassinet to a friend).  And then I will transition to my crib.  We are moving soon to our temporary house (and our new home at the end of the year / beginning of the year) so we will get my crib then.  We need to find one first!  Any tips on modern looking white cribs?  That aren't too terribly pricey?

Diet: Same - Mommy's Milk only!  Nursing Moms ... what do you do to keep your milk supply up?

Social: Basically everything we stated above in our Weekend Update.  I don't know that I went anywhere last week when Mimi or Ya Ya were watching me.

Clothes: The clothes in this posting are from Carter's (we promise, not all of my clothes are from Carter's).  I'm still wearing 3 months + or 3 - 6 months.  I can probably fit in the smaller 6 months + soon.  But Mommy isn't going to get those ready yet.  

Baby Gear: About the same as last week... I'm really liking grabbing things - so my toys with texture.  I have some soft blocks that have texture that were Max's.  Mommy is also getting a lot of use out of her Ergo.  How do you wear your baby?

Crying: I had a few nights this past week where I woke up crying a lot.  Mommy was pretty sure it was a tummy ache of some kind.  I still cry a lot with the grandparents, but we are hoping that gets better soon.  Any tips?

Likes: I really like watching my brother (as always), talking a lot, when Mommy and others sing to me ...and now I like grabbing my toes!

Postpartum: From Mommy - my hair is definitely falling out - about the same as it did with Max.  I still feel like I need to do a ton more exercise, but I'm doing the best that I can.  I'm completely exhausted, but that has more to do with working FT at a demanding job and taking care of two babies (and everything else I need to do).  If you are in the postpartum world right now, how are you?

Milestones: I'm grabbing AND holding on to my feet now.  It just happened over this past week.  I'm also REALLY close to rolling over back to front.

What is Max Up To This Week?: Max is still talking and singing a lot.  His big milestone of the week was ... Mommy was reading a book to me, and he started filling in the words (had the books memorized).  He is also singing along to a lot of songs.

What about you?  How was your weekend?  What are you up to this week?

-Sadie of Mad Max and Family

PS: Please also find us on Mad About Town.

next stop: We See Cowgirls In Our Future.

Hi Friends,

How is your week so far?  We meant to post this yesterday/ Wednesday, but Mommy is still running on fumes.  How about you?  Fumes or lots of steam?  What are your tips for not running on fumes?

So we wanted to take a look back ...and then look ahead.  We didn't share with you our fun past weekend yet.  I (Max) started SoccerTots up again!  Afterwards we walked around City Centre - it was such a nice sunny day!  Later after a late snack, we headed over to Discovery Green to check out some of the All Star Weekend celebrations.  And finally, we just wanted to share a sneak peek of Sissy's Weekly Photos.  (From this past Sunday).  You know she already turns 4 months on Friday!  Whoa.  We will share those 4 month photos next week.  Enjoy the photos below!  And read more about our next stop at the bottom.

Image Credit: Mad Max and Family / Tara J

It looks like Sissy is running!  By the way, she was always with us - but asleep with Mommy so I guess she didn't get too many photos.  More next time!

So .... what are you doing this coming weekend?  Any big plans?  Our big plan of the weekend (besides Soccer and our other usual events) is the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Parade (as long as the weather is nice).  It will be my first Rodeo parade (and Sadie's too!).  But this year is my third Rodeo (and of course Sissy's first).  Yeehaw!

Mommy just bought some additional items for our rodeo outfits for this year.  She bought me real cowboy boots from Sheplers.  And she bought Sissy a rodeo outfit (I already have shirts and Wranglers I can wear).  If you live in Houston .... are you headed to the rodeo?  Or if you don't live in Houston, have you been to a rodeo?  (If you ever come to Houston, it's one of the most fun times of the year here!).

-Mad Max

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

fun monday: Sadie's Week 16 Update

Hi Friends,

Sadie here ... How was your weekend?

Mommy has been REALLY dragging lately ...but we are trying to catch up now with my Week 16 Update from last week!  I actually turn 17 weeks TODAY (Monday), and I am 4 months on Friday (Feb 22nd).  Where is time going?

First .... our weekend.  It was another busy one.  How about yours?  Mommy got her hair cut on Saturday morning, and Saturday afternoon Max started his soccer again - GOAL... I really enjoyed watching him (well, I always enjoy watching him).  After soccer on Saturday, we went to enjoy some sun at City Centre ... and then we went to enjoy some more outdoor time at Discovery Green in Downtown Houston, and it was near all of the All Star Game action.  We also went to one of our favorite international grocery stores, Phoenicia.

Sunday was mostly our usual (church, Whole Foods), but Mommy and Daddy also celebrated Valentine's Day by going to the Houston Symphony (Mommy says - thank you, Daddy!  xo).  And thank you Mimi and PP for watching us.  Whew... hopefully we can share fun pics of our weekend soon.  But first ....

Sadie's Week 16 Update

Weight: Well, I had to go visit the doc for my first non-Well visit not last week, but the week before last at the end of the week for a bad diaper rash (Thursday I believe?).

They weighed me!  I was 13.25 lbs at the appt.  So I am guessing I am over that now.  Yikes.

Height: Not sure, but I have my 4 month check up coming up a week from today / Monday - I should find out then!

Health: Everything has been as good as gold except for the bad diaper rash ... We found out I had a yeast infection rash which is very common for itty bitty babies.  I'm still taking the meds, but it is pretty much all cleared up now!

Sleep: Things are going about as well as they had before.  Things are off and on better with the Grandparents.  I've had a few days last week where I slept really well for an extended period time in my bed at their house.  But it hasn't been happening each and every day all day, YET.

We are trying to stick to the CIO (Cry It Out) method for now.

Things are going pretty well at home!

Diet: Mommy's Milk Only!

Social: Well, not this past weekend...but the weekend prior we celebrated Ya Ya's birthday.  I went out to eat to my first German restaurant.

Also since I talked to you last, I had my first beauty salon visit with Ya Ya.

Clothes: Same as before - 3 months and 3 - 6 months clothes.  The onesie I am wearing in this photoshoot is from Carter's.  I'm also holding my Pottery Barn Kids bunny lovey in many photos.  Mommy probably would have dressed me up even fancier, but sometimes she just has to take photos when she has the opportunity to do so!

Baby Gear: Lately I am really loving anything I can grab (can't you tell from these photos).  That includes my lovies, rattles, toys, and more!  Well, most of all I probably love grabbing Mommy's hair.

Crying: Nothing new in this department.  I don't cry too much at home.  I cry more at the Grandparents / away from Mommy.  We are still hoping this continues to get better.  I sometimes have to cry a lot to finally go to sleep.  I sometimes cry in my sleep.

Likes: Everything the same as before ... AND ... I love sitting up, but I can't sit up yet, so that is the problem.  I love looking around.  I love trying to reach for things (like my toes!).  I love attempting to roll over.  And I love laughing!  Mommy has yet to capture it on video, but she is going to keep trying.

Postpartum: From Mommy - I am definitely losing hair now.  And the same update as before.  Although I fell off the wagon a tiny bit with the gym, but I will jump back in it this week.



Milestones: The biggest one would have to be rolling over without Mommy seeing!  I rolled over from tummy to back at Mimi and Grampis.  I think it only happened one time.

It hasn't happened at home yet!

I'm also grabbing my toes (or trying to) a lot more now.  And I love to talk a lot, but that isn't a new milestone.

What is Max Up To This Week?:

He repeats (or tries to) nearly every word lately.  He is singing a lot!  He will sing the end note of songs.

We also do the ABC song, and he can fill in some of the letters.

... so what about you?  How was your weekend?  And what are you up to this week?

-Sadie of Mad Max and Family

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