Let's Get Perky

Where do I begin?

2011-12-07T01:11:00.000-08:00

Wow, I've taken a long break from blogging. I'm overwhelmed by everything that's happened in the last five months that I know I can't document it all with pictures but here is my attempt with a catch-up.

I guess the biggest news would be our newest (5 months ago) addition, Elle Marquis. I always love to hear about everyone's birth story but I would need a whole separate post for that.
In summary: Started feeling inconsistent contractions July 5th. Went out to dinner, put Merrick in bed and finished packing my bag, hopped in the shower anticipating what was to come. By 1:30am I was on all fours timing my contractions. 3:30am I woke up Adam and said it was time. He was still a little skeptical so I humored him with a couple more contractions and then told him that we really need to get this show on the road. By the time his dad came over to stay with Merrick it was 4:30am. We were at the hospital by 4:45 and Elle arrived at 6:11am.

I really don't know why I'm posting this, I guess I have no shame! This was me in full labor, annoyed that Adam even asked me to smile for the camera.

8 lb Elle and sweaty mama

All clean and cozy

Merrick's had a little adjusting to do, he and Elle seem to have a love/hate relationship. Merrick's nursery leader asked him if he had a new baby sister and his reply was "yes, trucks". I guess a new baby meant new trucks for him.

Our first day home from the hospital


Merrick was already testing the limits

The rest of July we had my mom and my mother in-law visiting. My mom stayed for 10 days and I needed her every second of those days.
Adam left for Hawaii for a week when Elle was less than 2 weeks old so my sister in-law Courtney drove up and stayed for a couple days to help out.

August:
The first week of August my dad, Lorie and sister Katie came to visit, so we blessed Elle the Sunday they were here as well.

A couple days after my family flew home, I left Adam with Merrick and me and Elle went with the Marquis girls over to Ojai Valley Inn and Spa for a girls weekend. Bringing Elle along was fine but next girls trip I plan to NOT have a baby in tow and truly enjoy a nice weekend without children.

Elle laying out poolside - 6 wks old

September:
My sister Laura came to visit over Labor Day weekend
My dearest friend Lauren flew out the day after Laura left. Then Adam went out of town so I really appreciated all of Lauren's help, as well as our chance to catch up on each others lives.

The day after Lauren left, I drove down to Orange County with the kids and then my sister in-law Courtney and I took our children to Palm Springs for a few days. Merrick and Caden had fun running around together all day, wearing each other out. I realized how spoiled I've become with the cooler temperatures along the coast.

October:
Celebrated Adam's birthday with friends over Conference weekend
Drove down to OC again one weekend but this time to see a concert with family. My sister Adrienne flew out to babysit (call me crazy but I wasn't quite ready to leave both kids with a teenager that wasn't family)
My mom flew out to see the kids over her fall break from school. I just realized I have no pictures from either of my mom's visits...hopefully there are pictures on her camera.

Halloween!!
Merrick fully understood Halloween this year. So much so that when people would open the door Merrick would walk right into their home to get the candy.

Vampires and a bat

November:

Walk for Autism to support our nephew Marcus

Merrick's cousins snapping a photo while he's dead asleep. Yes, he had his leg up like that and fell asleep.

Thanksgiving:
We drove down to Orange County for the holiday weekend. The actual day of Thanksgiving started off with the Dana Point Turkey Trot followed by a fabulous feast. The rest of the weekend was spent with family, shopping, and enjoying the beautiful weather.

The week after Thanksgiving my sister Adrienne and my sister Allison and her two sons came to visit. I was excited to show them around Santa Barbara but Merrick was not so excited about sharing his toys or the iPad. We still had some fun the best we could with 4 children. I know Elle liked the attention from the boys!

Sadly, this was our best attempt at a photo of all 4 kids. Even sadder, this was the best picture of Merrick.

Elle was the princess of the week for sure

The famous astro-turf hill at the zoo

I'm finally caught up! We head to Cabo this week and then it's off to Utah for Christmas. I guess I'll have another update in 5 more months so until then....enjoy this one.

Our Latest Happenings

2011-06-26T23:23:00.000-07:00

I was going through my phone looking at all the pictures of Merrick and realized I should probably upload them before he deletes them, which he has a tendency to do. Since I don't have anything specific to blog, here are some photos of the last few months with Merrick!

I had just bought a bag of dried blueberries and gave the bag to Merrick to snack on while I ran some errands...he pretty much ate the whole bag in one sitting!

There's a classic bbq restaurant here in SB called Woody's that we go to and it's obvious that Merrick loves ribs!

We have a season pass to Disneyland but the summer is pretty much all blacked out, plus there is a baby on the way, so Merrick and I did one last Disney trip in May. This is the only picture I took that day/evening, Merrick wanted to ride that carousel at California Adventure all night long, we rode it at least 5 times in a row. Merrick and I also rode the big Ferris Wheel for the first time, he loved it and I had one hand on him and the other gripping the cage - the older I get the more afraid of heights I've become.

It's that time for baby showers! I had two baby showers the beginning of June. One with friends and family and one with my ward. Here I am at the church baby shower being spoiled with wonderful "girlie" gifts. Anytime I'm given a baby gift Merrick starts to open it and says "truck in there". I probably should feel bad that it's never a truck but he has so many I don't think he needs anymore!

My wonderful sister in-law Ann helped so much in throwing both my baby showers. It's so nice having family around that are always so willing to help out and make me feel extra special!

Merrick and I visit the Santa Barbara zoo on a regular basis - it's the best zoo! It's not too big but still has some great animals to see, a train to ride and an awesome play area for kids. For some reason Merrick took a liking to this tortoise which means sitting on it and giving it a hug every time we're at the zoo.

Playing in the egg shell at the zoo.

Another great resource we have here is the Nature and Science Museum. Right now they have a great butterfly exhibit that I went to with a friend and her boys. You walked into the mesh/tented area and were surrounded by all different kinds of butterflies. There were beautiful flowers and water features every where and the butterflies would just land on your shirt or shoes, even some people's heads.

I definitely had to give Merrick a little lecture before hand about not touching the butterflies and he did a great job at listening to me. Of course the photo is of the least colorful butterfly there.

I was down in Orange County this past weekend and we headed to Salt Creek beach on Saturday. Merrick was not interested in looking at the camera, this is the best I could do. He had a great time playing in the sand, looking for sand crabs, running from the waves and getting pushed over by them!

I actually let my sister in-law snap a photo of me in all my glory at 37 weeks (the next day I actually turned 38 weeks). This is my only photo so far of my belly so I figured I should at least have one to document. Yes, that is Merrick starting his meltdown as we were leaving the beach...no nap + sun = tantrum! Nothing like Uncle Chris' swimming pool to make him feel better. After the pool we drove home and he was asleep instantly and stayed asleep through LA's traffic (sometimes I miss LA, then I sit in traffic and change my mind quickly).


My nephew Caden covered head to toe in sand and loved every minute at the beach...he is completely fearless! Too bad his mommy never gets a chance to actually sit and relax.

Easter

2011-05-11T20:28:00.000-07:00

Coloring Easter eggs with Daddy and "Uncle Nick"

Surprisingly Merrick's eggs turned out the best!

Running away from Grandpa after lunch at the Country Club

Getting captured!

I just had to post these two pictures! This is how I found Merrick one morning and had to laugh...the new generation of children. Merrick's #1 use of my phone is to watch videos of himself.

We had a nice, relaxing Easter weekend. Friday Adam and I had a date night, Saturday we colored some eggs, went to the beach and stopped off at our pool for a little jacuzzi time. Sunday, we have 9 o'clock church so the hunting for eggs and presenting of the basket was done after church and took up a total of maybe 5 min. I distracted Merrick while Adam hid some eggs outside then while Merrick hunted for eggs I put together his basket. We're so on the ball and plan ahead!

Then it was off to the club to meet Adam's dad for brunch...definitely happy I didn't have to cook! Later that night we went over to a friend's house to watch the Laker's play (and probably loose, I can't remember).

Mr. Merrick Turns 2!

2011-04-26T14:39:00.000-07:00

Merrick turned 2 on March 16th, which was a Wednesday. Adam and I didn't really have any plans to celebrate his birthday until the weekend so I decided to drive to Disneyland for the day. My sister in-law Courtney and her son Caden met us there so we spent some time in California Adventure. After Courtney left, Merrick and I made our way back to the Magic Kingdom for more rides his size. It was pretty crowded that day so we really only went on a few attractions...the favorite is still Small World for me and partly because you get a break from the hot sun! Since it was Merrick's birthday I actually bought him a little Mickey car, that huge ice cream sandwich and a big Mickey balloon as we were leaving the park. It was a fun day, just the two of us at Disneyland. Merrick behaved really well and we both left happy!

The family celebration:

Merrick blowing out his candles

Devouring his cupcake - notice his custom shirt made by Adam...Merrick's old word for truck was "guck". He has upped his vocabulary, thank goodness!

Aunt Courtney and cousin Caden

Caden was ready to help Merrick open his gifts!

We invited family over to our place that Sunday to have some dinner, dessert and opening of presents. Of course the whole week we had great weather but once the weekend hit it rained non-stop ALL weekend long! Since Chris, Courtney and Caden were in town we went to the zoo on Saturday in between the rain storms but that's about all the weather would let us do. Kind of a bummer weekend so I was glad we went to Disneyland earlier that week.

Lack of posts

2011-03-01T15:44:00.000-08:00

This is the reason I've been slacking on posts!

I found out I was pregnant right after I ran my race in Nov. Then from November until the end of January I was feeling crappy and throwing up. Now I have my energy back to finally be somewhat productive during the day. Updating my blog was always last on my list.

We're excited for a new baby and to add some dolls, barbies and pink around the house! Merrick was such an angel child until I found out I was pregnant. Now he likes to scream NO, MINE, and get very, very angry with me when I don't know what exactly he is saying. I still love him to death though!

Christmas in UT

2011-03-01T15:26:00.000-08:00

Nana with her grandsons on Christmas Eve

Sisters

Our only family photo the whole trip

Hanging out after dinner on Christmas Eve, opening some presents

The boys in an intense game of Connect 4

Christmas Morning! Merrick looks pretty stoked too.

"Bop" (grandpa) helping Merrick get toys out of the ever-so-difficult box.

Bop's excited about his new Utah State sweatshirt!

This year we spent most of our time up in Logan with family. It was a quick trip but we did get in a half day of skiing on Christmas Eve. Merrick loved opening all his gifts and assumed every present was a truck. The majority of the time he was correct!

November 2010

2011-03-01T14:57:00.000-08:00

November 6th I ran my first half-marathon with my sister in-law Courtney and her friend from Laguna Niguel.

At about mile 7 our course took us right past my father in-law's house. We made sure our husbands and sons were there to cheer us on. It was the perfect energy boost I needed before we had our big hill at mile 10. The last 3 miles were by the ocean and mostly down hill! We had a lot of fun and one day I may train for a full!

(Christmas card photo taken that weekend)

For Thanksgiving we decided to stay at Dana Point and invited our friends, the Hyde's, to join us. Adam's brother and family were with us for dinner as well.

Thanksgiving morning I ran a 10K with my sister in-law Kim and Adam ran the 5K. It's a fun race to run because everyone who runs is there to have a good time! People dress up, push their children in strollers, walk, and even bring dogs. It's all along the harbor so the views are great. It helped give me the energy to go back and start cooking our feast.

Later that weekend we stopped by Huntington Beach to eat at Ruby's on the pier and do a little shopping. It was fun to be with friends and enjoy the long weekend.

October 2010

2011-03-01T14:38:00.000-08:00

The month of October was a busy month. We quickly flew to Utah last minute to attend the funeral of my Grandpa Emmett. It was a beautiful service but it was definitely hard to say goodbye. He passed away quickly after the cancer spread to his brain which was nice to know he didn't have to suffer long. It was a peaceful passing at his home with family by his side. I do miss seeing his comments on my blog, it was nice to know at least one person was reading it.

I had so many great memories living close to my grandparents as a child. My grandpa would always stop at our lemonade stands, he would take us for rides in his 1931 Chevy to get ice cream. I still remember the smell of his cologne when he would give me hugs. When he retired from working, I could almost always guarantee to find grandpa asleep in his chair whenever I would stop by the house. It never bothered him to wake up and visit with me though. He would always squeeze lemon into his diet cherry coke and then stir it with his finger. He made the best homemade ice cream!

He taught all his children to ski which has turned into all the grandchildren loving to ski as well. It's something our family enjoys doing together as much as we can. I remember riding up the chair lift with my grandpa looking at all the different snowflakes as they fell on our gloves and pants. He would ski ahead of us and then stop and take pictures or video as we skied down the hill. One day I missed school to go skiing with friends but I forgot my money. I knew that if I just waited a few minutes I had a 99.9% chance of my grandpa arriving that morning to go skiing as well. That's exactly what happened! He saved the day and I was able to go skiing with my friends.

Me and my sisters with my grandma at the burial.

My Grandpa would always ask his grand-kids anytime we saw him "What's the answer to the hard question?" and our response was "Grandpa Emmett loves me" so we had that draped over his casket with a bunch of paper snowflakes, knowing he would want to be buried with "snow" since he loved skiing so much.

Kauai!

Exactly a week after the funeral Adam and I flew to Hawaii with Merrick and some of his family. This was the first airplane ride for Merrick that was longer than the CA to UT flight. He did surprisingly well with the help of Adam's dad and wife Rosanne taking him up to their 1st class seats!

We had great weather and enjoyed hanging out at the pool, playing in the sand, riding paddle boards, boogie boarding, surfing, snorkeling, hiking to our usual Kipu Falls, and dune buggies (just no mud, only dirt). I didn't take very many pictures except for this one day.

Time to pick out pumpkins!

We have the cutest little pumpkin patch just down the street from where we live. They have tractor rides, farm animals, a little corn maze and of course pumpkins! Merrick loved it here, he would have sat on that tractor the whole time if we would have let him.

Halloween!

Firsts and Lasts

2010-10-22T15:46:00.000-07:00

Merrick's first trip to Disneyland! One of the last days of August all the Marquis sister in-laws living in CA headed to Disneyland as one last adventure before school started. I was a little nervous about how Merrick would behave all day in the sun but he did great. I think having cousins around helped. We had very hot weather but the lines were short, which made up for the heat. Merrick seemed quite taken with It's a Small World. He had this great stare of amazement. I hadn't been on this ride since they "re-vamped" the characters and I must say, I was impressed. It is still one of my favorite attractions!

Merrick wasn't too excited about Mickey but since there was no line I seized the opportunity.

Merrick LOVED the Dumbo ride...he kept saying "whoa" as we went around and around.

Merrick's never seen the actually movie Cars but since there was a car & truck he was pretty excited, despite the look on his face. He was more annoyed that he couldn't just "hang out" with the car and truck and could only snap a photo and move on.


Exploring around the wilderness area of California Adventure (I'm horrible at knowing all the names and locations of Disneyland)

The second week in September Merrick and I made a quick trip to Utah. Here we are enjoying a nice BBQ with my immediate family at my grandparent's house. My dear friend Lauren even made the trek from Boise to say hi. (I just realized I'm wearing the same shirt this day as I was at Disneyland, I promise this was a couple weeks later!)

Very rarely, if ever, have all the grandchildren of Bill and Lorie been together in a photo. Of course Merrick was either not looking at the camera or starting to scream. I think this was the best they got. Poor little Nashtyn surrounded by all the boys.

The whole reason for my trip to Utah was to visit with my grandpa Emmett. He had been battling Melanoma for the last couple years and it had recently spread to his brain. I knew I wouldn't have very many opportunities left to visit with him since we weren't sure if he would make it to Christmas. We quickly snapped a photo of grandpa with some of his great-grandkids. The picture below was Merrick's first picture with great-grandpa Emmett and this one above is his second. I definitely regret not snapping more. During this visit, my grandpa was still coherent, he would carry on a short conversation with you it he had the extra energy. Unfortunately, right after my trip he started going down hill really fast. This photo was taken on Sept. 11th 2010 and my grandpa passed away on Sept. 27th 2010. I knew this would be my last time seeing him on this earth but I just didn't expect to be flying back for a funeral that same month. I won't list all the reasons why he was such a wonderful grandpa right now, I'm saving that for another post!

October 2009 - Merrick is 7 months

Playing Catch-Up

2010-10-08T15:46:00.000-07:00


I feel that there has been so much going on lately, some to share on the blog and others less important. In fact, I should not be blogging right now because I need to be packing for our trip to Hawaii but I knew if I didn't post something it would just add one more month before another post. The above picture has no significance other than the fact that I love pictures of sleeping children. Merrick can whine all day but when he sleeps, he can do no wrong.

Over a weekend, near the end of August, we were invited to spend a night up at the campground Refugio, just 15 min. north of us. Our friends, the Magid's, called months in advance and sat online for hours just to get a weekend here. So we were happy to stop by for a night...or so we thought.

Gettin' dirty with the "hoc" (helicopter)

The Magid Family


Refugio is right on the beach so we spent the day paddle boarding, surfing and just enjoying the sun and scenery. Later that afternoon we got cleaned up, ate dinner and put the kids to bed. Merrick fell asleep great considering this was his first time camping (we put a pac n play in the tent). Adam and I had just fallen asleep when Merrick woke up crying, wheezing and not being able to breathe. Since the campsites are right on top of each other we rushed Merrick into the car as to not disturb everyone else. We tried to get Merrick to calm down so he could breathe but nothing seemed to work. The harder we tried, the more hysterical he became which added to more coughing and wheezing. Since we weren't too far away we just drove home right then and there. The next morning we drove back up to help take down all the gear and then drove home again. So much for camping! Merrick's been fine since, just some croup-ish coughs at night which lasted for about a month. His next doctor's appointment I will be asking questions about asthma and allergies.

Here are some pictures of how we spend some mornings...Merrick is half undressed, dirty faced and playing in my car. Since our laundry room is right off of the garage I can load/unload laundry while I still keep an eye on him, and it's not hard when the horn honks every few seconds.

Marquis Family Fun Weekend

2010-09-21T22:26:00.000-07:00

Marquis Family Retreat Service Project from Chris on Vimeo.

Back in August our Marquis family enjoyed a little "family retreat" if you will, down in Orange County. We stayed at the Marriott Renaissance Club Sport in Aliso Viejo. The hotel is connected to this great sports club with awesome work-out classes (took a turbo kick class by Chalene herself & it "turbo-kicked" my butt), pool, spa and a wonderful kids club.

On a side note, up until this point Merrick had never been left alone at any type of kids club or even nursery for that matter. I wasn't sure how he would do, so the first time I left him there it was only for about 45 min. When I came back he was outside playing with the Little Tyke cars you can sit inside. The second I picked him up to go he threw the biggest tantrum! Since this day, we've had no problems in nursery or even the gym here in Santa Barbara where I go workout, it's been great! I sure hope it lasts.

The family retreat weekend was such a nice relaxing time...working out, laying out by the pool, Rush concert with some of the family and our service project. Adam's brother Chris put together a little video of all the family members helping out to make some hygiene and school supply kits for the Children's Hunger Fund. I think he did a great job and it makes me remember how blessed I am in my life for many reasons but specifically the great families Adam and I have!

Summer Nights

2010-09-02T21:16:00.000-07:00

One Friday evening Adam came home from work and I just felt like I needed to get out for the evening. We ate some dinner, got in the car and ended up at the Santa Barbara Mission. The mission sits on a little hill with this great grassy area right in front. They have beautiful rose bushes and a little fountain. There were other families playing on the grass, some peope enjoying an evening picnic...just a beautiful place to be on a summer night. Merrick loved running around for a short time then we hopped in the car and stopped for some ice cream. We weren't gone for very long but it was exactly what I needed, especially the ice cream!

I added just a couple pictures of Merrick in the tub. These were taken back in July I believe and since then Merrick has received his first haircut and a few molars. He's had another cold, ear infection, sore throat situation with a high fever that wouldn't go down for almost 2 days and a stressed out mom. Other than that he's a fun kid to be around. We have our silly little games we play during the day, one of which consists of Merrick pretending to push me over. I then have to ask for him to help me up, he will walk over and gently put his hand behind my head and start to push my head up for me. The more we've played the less gentle he's become. Now he'll just yank on my hair or grab my shirt, his favorite part is pushing me over though, as it should be.

When Merrick throws his tantrums now he lays down slowly and ever so cautiously as to not bump his head on any toy, hard surface, etc. Once he is on the ground completely the tantrum will really start. I choose to ignore it as most parents do and he will then follow me into whatever room I'm in and start the tantrum over. My parents used to curse me with a child exactly like me when I would throw my tantrums and I have been cursed I guess. The tantrums I can actually handle and they are quite entertaining, I'm hoping to get one on film. It is the whining for every little thing that I can't handle. All in all these tantrums and whines are not THAT often and with being sick plus molars coming in they've surfaced a little more. His dancing to music, pretending to strum his inflatable guitar and singing his bathtime song all make up for it.

Red Rock

2010-08-16T12:28:00.000-07:00

Adam had told me about a place up in the mountains called Red Rock that he went to as a child. It's a little swimming hole of sorts with that big rock you can see in the first photo. One Saturday in July we made the drive up with our friends, the Hyde's, and hiked up to the main swimming area. Adam fore-warned me that it can become more of a "party-scene" at times but I wanted to check it out anyway. There were plenty of people but we found a shallow spot where the kids could swim around, snapped a few photos, watched a couple crazy guys jump off the very top of the rock, and we were on our way back to the car. We all went back to our place & got in the jacuzzi and pool -- a successful Saturday in my book!

No Sun...No Problem

2010-07-29T14:59:00.000-07:00

The 4th of July weekend was unfortunately overcast but that didn't stop us from enjoying our time at the beach. Adam got out on the long board, Merrick played in the sand and I snapped some photos of the family. It was a mellow way to spend a Saturday afternoon and by the amount of people on the beach you would have never guessed it was a holiday!

Visitors!

2010-07-14T22:09:00.000-07:00

We had our first offical visitors arrive the end of June. By "official" I mean that they stayed longer than 2 days and I had to be in charge of entertaining them.

It was so fun having my mom and sister around again. Merrick was taken care of, I barely had to lift a finger. If Merrick was fussing, needed a diaper change, was hungry, etc. I literally just looked at my mom or my sister & sat there until one of them got the job done!

Laura made a little book for Merrick with pictures of his 1st year of life & then some of his "favorite things" on the last page. He usually turns straight for the last page because there is a picture of a dump "guck".

Unfortunately we did have one day in Santa Barbara where it was pretty cloudy & drizzled most of the day, so we ventured over the mountains to Solvang, the little Danish town. Well, over the hills it was HOT & Sunny! I was dying of heat & had to buy a t-shirt so I wouldn't sweat all day. Poor Merrick & his rosy cheeks but he loved pushing his stroller around & walking in and out of all the stores. We did cause a little bit of a scene after leaving a toy store.

Everyone has to ride these little surrey bikes at least once while visiting Santa Barbara...it's what the tourists do! Merrick had to wear a helmet since he was under the age of 18 and I thought he would hate it but he never really cared or even noticed!

Merrick didn't last too long on the bike before he wanted to get down & walk around so once again I sat there while his Grandma entertained him.

Of course on the last day we have beautiful sun!

After my mom and Laura left I couldn't understand why I was so tired the next couple days and I finally figured it out...I had to take care of my child again!

*side note: Adam was out of town for a few days while they were here. It may seem like I leave him out of all the fun but we was working.

What goes great with BBQ?

2010-07-07T14:37:00.000-07:00

...The Beach!

One Friday evening we grabbed some bbq & headed to the beach with our friends, the Hyde's. It was a beautiful night, unfortunately the tide was pretty high & getting higher so we couldn't stay too long. I think Adam took some great photos of our eveing though!

Like Father Like Son

2010-07-02T11:49:00.000-07:00

For those of you who know Adam well you are probably aware of his love for pizza. There is one specific pizza here in Santa Barbara that is his FAVORITE and that is Rusty's. Merrick has inherited the gene for loving a great slice of Rusty's pizza as well, in fact he can down about 3 slices himself!

I had to post this picture knowing it will embarass him one day. He looks like such a ragamuffin some days!

Not quite "June Gloom"

2010-06-30T14:43:00.000-07:00

The first part of June Merrick & I made a stop down in Orange County to attend a baby shower. It was great to meet up with our friends Jessica & Siena at the beach & to kiss & hug cousin Caden. Merrick's still practicing to be "soft" & to not poke him in the eye. Adam says Merrick is measuring cheek size! We sure love our chubby cheeked babies!

Immediately following the baby shower Merrick & I were back up in Santa Barbara at his cousin Marcus' birthday party. They had a big bounce house & slide that I took Merrick on. He wasn't too excited about the slide & preferred trying to ride the bike or being pushed in the wagon.

Of course I have to mention the Laker's win, especially from all my posts last year. Wow, time flies! Can you tell this photo of Adam & our friend Danny is a reinactment? Or are they just great actors?

While the guys watched the game, Annie & I entertained the kiddos and chatted about our motherly things...eating healthy, exercising, cooking dinners, our hair styles, etc. You know, exciting things of that nature!

Some of the aftermath - but it was a great way to end our day of the beach, mexican food & the Laker's championship!

How we spend our days...

2010-06-02T23:27:00.000-07:00

One of Merrick's favorite things to do is hop in the shower with Adam in the mornings. Adam brings in an array of toys for Merrick to play with so during the day while I'm doing other things Merrick will hang out in the shower & play.

While we were unpacking, our niece Mary Jane came over to play with Merrick & keep him entertained. Merrick loves Mary Jane, we're so happy when she's around!

In our new place Merrick is able to touch the TV and will stand too close if cartoons are on. I brought out his little chair from his room just to see if he would sit in it. I walked away to unpack some items and when I came back Merrick was just lounging. It is now his TV chair!

The weather has been so nice I snapped a few shots of Merrick walking around our backyard patio area. Condo living gives you limited outside space but I'm very pleased with our back patio. There is plenty of room for Merrick to run around and get some fresh air, plus our pool is right behind our unit which makes me happy. We've already used it a few times in the last month.

While I'm trying to cook Merrick likes to rearrange the items in the fridge...

this is Merrick's reaction when I tell him we're done playing in the fridge. I love tantrums!

Merrick got over the fridge fiasco fast & moved onto his other favorite thing to do - throwing all his books onto the floor! He actually loves looking at books with me and we have spent many hours reading the same books over & over again.

We are really enjoying our new place and being here in Santa Barbara. Merrick took a little longer to adjust to his new room but with a little sleep training this week, I think (crossing my fingers) Merrick is back to his usual sleeping self again. Merrick is learning more words every day. He loves to make animal sounds, he signs "please", "more" & "cheese". He's still obsessed with trucks or "gucks" and calls many items "guck", it doesn't matter how many times I tell him it's a bus or airplane he will still say "guck".

He loves to ask for dad during the day & will also look at pictures of himself & say "dad" - I guess we know who his favorite person is! Merrick is at a fun, playful age & keeps us on our toes for sure.

*Please forgive my long post, I've had some catching up to do

Farewell to Friends

2010-06-02T22:21:00.000-07:00

We have recently moved from Dana Point to Santa Barbara. Dana was just temporary but while we were there we met some great friends, especially for Merrick too. Jessica and her daughter Siena became such great friends for Merrick and me. We would usually try and go on daily walks around the Harbor, meet at the park or the mall, not to mention Siena & Merrick were each others entertainment at church. They recently moved as well so before we both left our Dana Point life we tried to get together often.

We will miss them but I will make an effort to visit them often!

*thanks for letting me steal these pics Jess!

IRON MAN FANS - Iron Man Two Spoof....recent short by "LURKSQUAD"

2010-05-07T13:50:00.001-07:00

Chadam Studios

2010-04-15T12:16:00.000-07:00

Enjoying the Outdoors

2010-04-15T00:13:00.000-07:00

Merrick practicing his surfing skills

Pool-time with Daddy

Adam coaxing Merrick to jump off the edge...

A little too close...

And he's in!

During Spring Break my dad, Lorie & my sister Katie came to visit us. The weather was sunny and Easter/Conference Sunday was a great day to visit Laguna Beach.

Merrick's favorite spot: on Daddy's shoulders

Family photo shot

Checking out the tide pools

Adam teaching Merrick the ways of the sea

Merrick loving the time spent with grandparents at the beach

After trips to the Farmer's Market at Huntington Beach, Magic Mountain with Katie, dolphin watching, an earthquake and shopping we were able to relax at the pool.

Mariachi Merrick & his 1st Birthday

2010-03-19T22:15:00.000-07:00

I've been a horrible "blogger" lately. We've been doing things, I just haven't posted about them. Some of the excitement happening in our lives would include Merrick's new cousin Caden born on Feb. 9th.

Adam planned a little overnight trip to San Diego over Valentine's Day/President's weekend. We took Merrick to the San Diego zoo that Monday and enjoyed the beautiful weather. Merrick liked the elephants and riding on daddy's shoulders.

Merrick started taking a few steps before his 1st birthday. He is still a little hesitant when walking but everyday he walks a little further than the day before.

Merrick's birthday was on Tues. March 16th but we decided to celebrate on Sunday. My mom and two of my sisters flew out for the weekend to celebrate with us. It was so fun having them around, I wasn't ready for them to leave yet.

Merrick had a cold that whole week before his birthday and hadn't been feeling very well but he was in good spirits the day of his party. He was not interested in his cake at all! His cousins tried to help him get excited about it but it didn't really work...redvines became his dessert of choice that evening.

It's been so fun watching Merrick learn and grow. He loves trucks and will look out the window and say "guck", he gets excited when he sees the buses drive by as well. His other words include "mom", "dad", "dog" and "uh-oh". He loves to "dance" to music and right now his favorite song is The Fixer by Pearl Jam. The second he hears that song he will crawl over to where it is playing and start waving his arms. Adam started pulling him on a boogie board around the living room the other day and Merrick loves it! He takes it very seriously too and will keep a straight face the whole time. If we stop pulling him he will just sit there until we start again.

His doctor appointment stats showed that he is 31 in. tall - 90th percentile and almost weighs 24 lbs. - 70th percentile. He is still a big boy despite the fact he no longer wants to drink any type of milk. Cheese and yogurt he loves, just not milk - I'm working on it though. He is such a little character, we are laughing at him constantly. He is growing up so fast but will still snuggle and give mommy "loves".

A Merrick Christmas 2009

2010-01-22T12:00:00.000-08:00

We enjoyed the holidays in Utah this Christmas/New Year's season. With spent most of our time up in Midway with family, but also were able to visit with the Emmett clan and meet up with extended family in Provo as well. Merrick had a blast playing with all of his cousins and seeing snow for the very first time! Thanks so much to Cheryl & Mike for their wonderful hospitality...enjoy some photos taken over the 2 weeks:

Merrick visiting Grandma Lou for the first time

Merrick and his rocking horse from Grandma

The Emmett Sisters and the hubbies

Stoked little Merrick in his jammies

Jolly Boys

Mommy gift from Merrick (AKA: Adam)

Excited to go on a sleigh ride!

Tuckered out from being Baby Jesus on Christmas Eve

Christmas dreams...

HAPPY 2010 EVERYONE!

el Número Nueve

2009-12-16T21:49:00.000-08:00

Today our bundle of joy is 9 months. I keep looking at his newborn pictures as to never forget how tiny he was at one point. I'm trying to ingrain it into my mind.
Doctor stats revealed he was:
30 in. long - 95th percentile
22 1/2 lbs. - 80th percentile

Some of Merrick's new tricks would include crawling, clapping, acrobatic diaper changes, and pulling himself up on the most difficult pieces of furniture where he is bound to bump his head. He is yet to use the couch or leather ottoman but instead chooses wood chairs, bookcases & fireplaces. His favorite item to play with is still the guitar but a close second would be his dad!

Merrick will clench his fists when he gets upset and goes crazy for pretzels and the little biscuit cookies. We've had to put those treats on hold for a little while until he can chew them better. I can't even come within close proximity to his mouth to scoop out pieces without Merrick throwing a fit.

"Da Da Doe" is his choice phrase. He will make the "mmm" sound when he gets upset...I think that may mean mommy (or at least hoping). He is starting to say "Ought Oh" in his own baby version and pat-e-cake is his new favorite song.
We still go crazy for his cheeks, but who couldn't!

Feasting With Gratitude

2009-12-16T21:22:00.000-08:00

Adam and I were up in Santa Barbara again this Thanksgiving. The weather was beautiful that day and the food was great! Merrick enjoyed some sweet potatoes, mashed potatoes & stuffing for a few minutes but then became more enthralled with the little Chihuahua. After dinner the only daring people to get in the pool were Grandpa & Merrick. Merrick was very content with Grandpa pushing him around so he could splash. The rest of the weekend we visited with friends, did some shopping (no early-risers for us) and just relaxed.

Pre-Holiday Rendezvous

2009-12-16T20:55:00.000-08:00

The weekend before Thanksgiving some of our friends drove down for the weekend to hang out here in Dana Pt. We heard they had put up the Christmas tree at Fashion Island so we loaded up the kiddos for a festive Saturday of picture taking. Merrick had his first carousel ride & his first picture with Santa. As you can see from the pictures he was overly enthused!

6 Years of Merry Marriedness

2009-12-12T17:57:00.000-08:00

Happy Anniversary to my sweet wife of 6 years Melissa!
Even though we are all sick as a family on this rainy winter Saturday, I want you to know that you are still the treasure of my life and the most loving companion
and friend a man could ever have...

Here's a poem I dedicate to you on our special day:

With love,

Your hubby - AEM

Dad Is So Much Fun

2009-11-15T22:06:00.000-08:00

This weekend I was out of town for a Doula Workshop in San Diego. This was my first time away from Merrick and it was very hard. I was gone half the day on Friday and then all day Saturday and all day Sunday. I was so anxious to get home Sunday evening I could hardly contain myself. I never worried once for Merrick's well-being because I knew Adam would do such a great job with him. From the videos you can tell Merrick really didn't miss me at all!

These videos were recorded over at Chad & Kim's home. Merrick LOVES dogs and especially Cody. Merrick also gets excited at the sight of guitars...I wonder why? He's not too excited about the guitar in the 2nd video, he's more interested in teething on the little noise shaker.

May The Force Be With You

2009-11-11T09:06:00.000-08:00

I'm finally getting around to posting our Halloween pictures. This year with a child we mostly focused on taking a bunch of photos of Merrick, because really that is the only reason why we even dress up babies, for our own enjoyment!
We headed over to Ladera Ranch to have dinner with family and to let Merrick go "trick-or-treating" with his cousins. Adam & I did not plan out our costumes this year so last minute I did my best at making Princess Leia buns & Adam went as...

Danny Gokey!

With Adam's glasses he slightly resembles Danny Gokey from American Idol last season. As we were outside going from house to house, Chris & Nick would pretend to be on the phone to someone talking about "Danny Gokey in Ladera Ranch trick or treating". I don't think anyone really even paid attention or even cared for that matter but is was still funny to hear.

Bob Wiley:
"Doctor Leo Marvin!"
"What if I'm looking for a bathroom, I can't find one and my bladder explodes"
The list could go on and on...

Our little Yoda

Darth Vader pulling Yoda in the wagon

Family photo

Merrick is happy the night is over!

While Adam's Away....

2009-11-05T09:31:00.000-08:00

...Merrick & I will fly to Utah!

A couple weeks ago Adam had to fly to Italy for work and I wasn't too excited about spending 5 nights alone. My grandpa Emmett has recently been diagnosed with cancer and had just arrived home from the hospital after removing some tumors a couple days before I flew to Utah.
Merrick had only visited his great-grandparents once in July but I of course never snapped any photos. It was wonderful to see them a couples times during my trip. I loved visiting Utah this time of year but just seemed to always be cold, I didn't think the warm weather of CA would affect me so quickly. Merrick loved all the attention he received and it continued on the plane ride home. There was a couple sitting next to us on the plane & the wife really wanted to hold Merrick the second we sat in our seats. She continued to play with him through take-off, the drinks & snack, and eventually he fell asleep in her arms during the rest of the flight. I didn't know what to do with myself, I wish I had brought a book to read or something. Thank goodness for SkyMall!

Little Keebler Elves

2009-11-05T08:54:00.000-08:00

Back in the middle of October my sisters came to Dana Point for the weekend. With the two babies we did simple activities like going for walks, hanging out at the pool and the pumpkin patch. We of course chose the hottest time of day to dress the boys up in black, long sleeved shirts to take pictures at the pumpkin patch. They were good sports and we were in and out very quickly!
The whole weekend Adam liked to call us little keebler elves and ask how the cookie making was coming a long. One night Adam claimed he heard all four of us talking all at the same time for over an hour...that's what sisters do I guess!

Adam turned 31

2009-10-06T20:52:00.001-07:00

Adam celebrated his 31st birthday on October 2nd. He was able to take the day off so we went out for some breakfast, took Merrick swimming, he played some tennis with his brother Chris & then met up with family & friends for some Mexican food. One of Adam's gifts was a Banjo from his mom plus a Mandolin from me & tickets to see Pearl Jam tomorrow night with his brother Chad. I'd say turning 31 isn't too bad!

Merrick enjoying the balloons the next day - isn't he such a little chunk? We love our little chubby baby!

LA County Fair!

2009-10-06T19:41:00.000-07:00

Merrick with his uncle Chad

Some of the group cooling off

Grandpa Dale, Merrick & Adam

A little sampling of some deep-fried food

Riding the fair rides - whose ready to "Tango"!
Normally I don't ride carni rides but Adam & Chris went on this crazy ride called Tango that spins & twists you until that fried food feels like making it's way back up. Adam didn't think I would enjoy it so he mustered up the energy to go again. Of course I loved it & Adam felt sick afterward.

Before the ride really started to "dance"

and after!

Last week we made a stop at the Los Angeles County Fair with members of the Marquis clan. It was a hot day but that didn't stop us from consuming some deep fried White Castle hamburgers, veggies, twinkies & snickers as well as our favorite Mexican Funnel Cake pictured here. Merrick did great at the fair, just enjoyed the company & relaxing in his stroller. A great way to spend an incredibly hot autumn day in October!

Growing Like A Weed

2009-09-16T20:13:00.000-07:00

Merrick is 6 months today. He is growing so fast, I can hardly believe it. Today we took him for his check-up & he was huge!
Weight: 20 lbs. (90th)
Length: 29 in. (90th)

I was totally shocked. He had always been in the 50th - 75th range but now the 90th? The Dr. did mention that this doesn't necessarily reflect his future height but that he is eating really well. Which is true, our children will never be outrageously tall but Merrick is eating & sleeping really well (if you can't already tell by his yummy cheeks). We have introduced sweet potatoes, carrots, bananas & apples into his diet so far & tomorrow I will be making pears. My mother in-law bought me a BEABA for my birthday this past year & I absolutely love it. I can steam fruits & veggies for either 5, 10 or 15 min. and then just a few minutes after that to puree it. Presto! Merrick has some great, fresh baby food! Last night I even snacked on some of his sweet potatoes for my dinner.

Merrick is such a good baby, I really hope all my babies behave like Merrick (so far). He reaches for everything so he can put it in his mouth. He is sitting up great now, loves to say "Da Da" - even though it's not his first word - but Adam is pretty stoked. Every time Merrick says "Da Da" I just repeat "Ma Ma" - one day, right?
I just love watching this kid grow & explore everyday. He makes all sorts of funny sounds with his mouth & then looks to me for my approval & applause. We're so proud!

Tony Hawk & the Grommets...

2009-08-31T20:51:00.000-07:00

Saturday brought excessive heat to the OC so the nephews and I found a great way to cool down...mummifying ourselves in sweaty protective gear - and skating cement bowls at the local skate park! "Skate or Die...Die-Die-Die-Die!" (loved that video gamed)

In Ladera Ranch everything is monitored - even down to the length of your yard's grass. So I was not surprised when the local enforcer (patrol) entered the park and asked me to wear my "elbow pads." Christopher & Briggs had some moments but I believe the ole 30-yr-old took the trophy - almost breaking his neck and dying of heat exhaustion all within a 20-minute swallsy session!

Christopher & Briggs: TEAM RAZOR

good thing the elbow pads came in handy...

Ladera Ranch Skatepark 30-yr-old Patron

I Scream, You Scream, We all Scream for...Rice Cereal

2009-08-26T23:46:00.000-07:00

"What's the camera for Dad, I'm just going to drink a bottle like I always do?"

"Hmm, I don't think this is a bottle"

"OK, definitely not a bottle! What is going on?"

"I don't know, maybe it's not too bad. Mom, why don't you let dad try."

"Never mind, it is bad! Dad, get that thing out of my face & wipe up that stuff you dropped all over my leg!"

"What's so funny? Did I miss something?"

"It's good to have you back bottle...really what's with the camera already?"

*Sorry for all the photos - it looks like our battery charger for our video camera is in storage & of course the battery is dead.

Our latest happenings...

2009-08-25T22:11:00.001-07:00

Boxed up all our stuff....

...and bid farewell to our LA loft

...bought this stroller

...so Merrick & I can go for runs along this beach!

A nice Sunday afternoon walk with Chris & Courtney around their place in Newport

Merrick is 5 months now and he couldn't be a better baby. I get to see this smile above everyday & we can't get enough! Daddy is the best at getting Merrick to laugh but every time he laughs he gets the hiccups...oh shoot, the life of Mister Merrick I guess!

Merrick Stats:

2009-07-23T13:16:00.000-07:00

Well, Merrick just seems to grow overnight. Last week we had his 4 month check-up & he weighed 16 lbs. 10 oz. and was just about 25 in. long. He is definitely a little chunk & I love kissing his cheeks ALL day long. He can now roll over from his tummy to back, he's starting to giggle for mom & dad & loves putting things in his mouth - his new trick is to suck on his toes.
Merrick is more vocal now, especially when something is not to his liking or when he should be sleeping but would rather babble & coo in bed.
I love staying home with him & I hate to think of how fast he will grow up...he needs to stay my little Mr. Merrick Man forever!

U-S-A Weekend

2009-07-08T00:16:00.000-07:00

For the 4th of July weekend Adam & I chose to head to...none other than Dana Pt. of course! This is our getaway from LA & we pretty much drive down when we have no plans

Fortunately my friend Holly was in town for the 4th of July weekend so Holly, Ty & Liv stopped by to say hello & meet Merrick.

These two are about 1 month apart & obviously love their fingers

Merrick: "Hmm, these fingers look nice to suck on"
Liv: "Who is this chunk & why is he grabbing my hand?"

"Aaah, get me out of the sun!"

"Much better - Thanks Dad"

Merrick with his buddy Tanner

Hooray for Family!

2009-07-05T20:51:00.000-07:00

On Father's Day the Marquis family headed down to the resort La Costa in Carlsbad, CA for the week. Merrick wore his "Daddy is King" onesie that day in honor of his wonderful dad!

Merrick's 1st time in a pool

Merrick was overdue for a nap so we wasn't overly excited BUT he didn't cry...I'd like to think he enjoyed it, he just didn't have the energy to show us.

We enjoyed our wonderful time with family that week going to the pool, our spa day, family photos, Sea World, tennis clinics & golf. Unfortunately Merrick & I left a little early, I had girl's camp to attend BUT...

Merrick got to hang out with Nana & Auntie Laura!

This year Girl's Camp was in Malibu on the beach so I decided to just drive there & back each day so I wouldn't have to be away from Merrick for too long. The longest day I was away was probably 9 hours and I'm not going to lie, I missed him like crazy but I also knew he was in good hands!
On Sat. I was home early enough so we made our way to Manhattan Beach for a couple hours so I could spend some time with my mom and little sister before they flew home the next day.

Thank you to my wonderful mother in-law for our fabulous family vacation & also to my great babysitters for the weekend!

To Merrick's daddy...

2009-06-20T21:49:00.000-07:00

Since we are going on vacation tomorrow morning...

Happy 1st Father's Day to the best Dad!

Parade Day

2009-06-17T23:52:00.000-07:00

This is my last post about the Lakers, I promise! Next week we are on vacation so there will be loads of photos after that.
The "parade" was today...fire trucks with Laker girls & a few double decker buses with the players, their families & media. The streets were crowded, it was hot & the babies fell asleep right after the first picture. All in all it was fun to experience but I will never have the desire to do it again. When you live a few blocks aways, why not right?

Just for fun...

2009-06-14T23:57:00.000-07:00

Laker Mania

2009-06-14T23:29:00.000-07:00

"I can't wait for the parade on Wednesday"

Nothing says cheering on the Laker's triumph here in LA more than huge crowds starting fires in the street & in garbage cans, a dumpster in the middle of the street, helicopters and the sound of sirens all night long!
I was at a church function during the game so it was a little father/son time at home without mommy...a little glimpse into the future I'm sure.

Let's Go Lakers, Let's Go!

2009-06-04T11:31:00.000-07:00

Merrick will be ready to cheer on the Lakers tonight! I want the Lakers to win the series just so I can go to the Laker parade here in downtown. I've heard everyone in LA skips out on work that day just to watch the parade...I'm very curious.

Merrick N' Friends

2009-06-01T23:26:00.000-07:00

Last week Merrick & his older friend Tanner (8 1/2 months) went to go visit Keilana (4 weeks younger than Merrick). Merrick had never met Keilana so he made sure to dress his best & show Keilana how cool he can be in his skull baby legs & guitar shirt...little did we know that Keilana wore coordinating colors to match Merrick. It was meant to be!

Santa Barbara Fun

2009-05-29T12:26:00.000-07:00

On Memorial Day we drove up to Santa Barbara to gather with the Marquis family since everyone came into town for the blessing. Adam took Tuesday off from work so we could spend an extra day in Santa Barbara with his sister's family. On Tues. we made a stop over at The Mission for the annual chalk drawing festival called the "I Madonnari" (Italian tradition dating to the 16th Century). Next we made our way over to the wharf for some clam chowder, lobster tacos & ice cream...yum! Merrick was such a good boy & stayed asleep the whole time so no photos of him. Our last stop was at my nephew's track meet, listening to an old lady talk to me about the Montecito fire of '64, her husband's gall stones & a few other stories all the while I am trying to nurse Merrick. It was a great day!

Merrick's Blessing Day

2009-05-27T23:55:00.000-07:00

Our little family

ALL of Merrick's grandparents!

The group gathering at our friend's building

Our little man

This past Sunday was Merrick's blessing day. We had all of the Marquis family in town plus both my sets of parents. Adam gave Merrick a beautiful blessing & Merrick stayed quiet which made me happy! It was a very special day for me & I was grateful to all the family that made the time to be there for Merrick.

America's Got Talent...Maybe

2009-05-21T22:53:00.000-07:00

Monday I went with some girlfriends to the LA auditions of America's Got Talent at the Orpheum Theater in downtown LA. When we arrived they placed us in the very front row, right by the stage & next to the judges - Sharon Osbourne, David Hasslehoff & Piers Morgan. It was neat to see how production worked, being able to hear the conversations between the director & judges. Unfortunately the talent was pretty slim...no one was impressive. We were there from 6:00pm until almost 11:00pm watching no talent acts! It was still fun to be out for a girls night knowing Merrick was in good hands with Adam.

Middle Man

2009-05-17T00:37:00.000-07:00

Merrick is 2 months old now & the time has flown by. I'm already sad that he isn't a newborn anymore & now becoming a baby. At his doctor's appointment on Friday Merrick weighed 11 lbs. 7 oz. & is 23 in. long - 50th percentile across the board, right in the middle.
Merrick is smiling a lot more, starting to coo, holding his head up more & sleeping through the night! Now I just need to learn to go to bed soon after he does so I can catch up on some zzz's instead of staying up too late to blog.

Too legit to quit - 1st Mother's Day

2009-05-12T23:59:00.000-07:00

Thursday Merrick & I went to the Huntington Gardens in Pasadena with other mommies from LA. It was very, very hot but fun to get out & walk around the beautiful gardens.

Friday night Adam & I drove to Newport to celebrate Chris' 27th birthday with friends & family.

Sunday picnic in the park...Uncle Chad & cousins chillin with Merrick

So Cozy

Merrick loves to hold onto his blankets or his mommy & daddy's clothes, especially when he starts to get sleepy.

Enjoying the great outdoors

Our feast!

Cousin Briggs - "Can Merrick have some root beer?"

Aaahh...Loves from Mommy on her special day

Our first official family photo besides the hospital!

I know I've only been a mother for 2 months but I had a wonderful mother's day being a legitimate mom this year. I love every minute I spend with Merrick, he is such a great baby!

Merrick's Many Faces

2009-05-06T22:49:00.000-07:00

(sneezing)

We LOVE Him So Much!

6 1/2 - Week Old Mr. Merrick

2009-05-01T00:00:00.000-07:00

Thought we would post a few photos of little Merrick for everyone. Recently, he has gone through an "acne" phase - and Adam started calling him "Zit-Face-McGee"...which I thought was a little offensive. We really do love our little guy as he becomes older and older!

Daddy's chin & lips - Mommy's eyes and hands

Happy with Mommy - Not sure about Pops

Chillin' on his Changin' Table (That's where he performs his "High-Kicks")

HAPPY TIMES WE ARE HAVING...

Lifesaver...literally

2009-04-29T17:04:00.000-07:00

We had one of those scares that most parents fear...when your child can't breathe & is gasping for air. Merrick was pretty congested last night but around 1 am he was really having a hard time breathing. We turned the shower on in the bathroom & waited for the room to get nice & steamy & then suctioned his nose with this wonderful contraption. We did this all over again at 4:30am as well.

A friend of mine gave this to me at a baby shower, her brother in-law is an ear, nose, throat doctor & he suggests this for really stuffy noses, so do I now! Bulb syringes are great for getting the boogers out but this thing really sucks out the mucus. Merrick was finally able to breathe, eat and get some sleep. I don't think we could have cleared his nose enough if I did not have this wonderful nasal aspirator. Mothers with young children should buy this, I highly recommend it.

Just One For Now...

2009-03-31T13:21:00.000-07:00

- 2 weeks old as of yesterday -
I promised Adam we wouldn't just post a bunch of pictures of our baby all the time but this was too cute to pass up!

One Week (the 23rd) Update

2009-03-26T14:22:00.000-07:00

Our little man is now over a week old & what a joy he has been! I can't stop kissing his little soft cheeks & warm neck. He really is a great baby & doesn't fuss too much unless he is really hungry or I'm taking too long changing his diaper.
Merrick loves the sound of his daddy's voice so Adam will pull out his guitar & serenade Merrick to sleep. Merrick definitely has his daddy's little chin, we think my nose & maybe more of Adam's eyes but I guess it may be a little too soon to tell.
I'm going to type about my labor just so I have it written down before it leaves my mind all too quickly.

The Saturday before Merrick was born Adam & I spent the afternoon walking around downtown & then over to a huge set of stairs by our public library. I was hoping that would help move the labor along. I was getting nervous as my due date was approaching because I had my mother in-law on her way to CA & my mother flying in on Thurs.
Sunday we drove down to Orange County to have dinner with family. My sister in-laws Kim & Courtney went out walking with me after dinner to help start this labor again. I was hoping I would feel something Sunday night but aside from a tight belly I woke up Monday (my due date) feeling just like it was any other day.

I had a doctor's appointment on Monday at 11:45am. When my doctor started to check me I politely asked if she could maybe strip my membranes since I had family coming into town. As she was stripping my membranes she was about to tell me how tight my bag of water was when all of a sudden my water broke!
We both just started laughing & she asked me how I felt about delivering the baby today! Perfect timing on Merrick's part!

The doctor told me I could either go to the hospital right then (but informed me it was very busy & I would most likely have to wait for a room) or I could go home & labor & come back when my contractions were about 4 min. apart. Since I wasn't feeling any contractions at the moment & figured this could be a long process & I chose to go home first. I called Adam, told him I felt great, don't worry about me, go to your meeting & I will call you later this afternoon.

I was home around 12:30 & feeling great. At 2:00pm I called my mom because I started to time my contractions & they were 1 min. long & a couple minutes apart. Just then Adam walked in the door & I was so grateful to see him! Together I labored & he did the timing...by 2:20 we were grabbing our bags & heading out the door.

When we got to the hospital I was definitely in labor & feeling nauseous. Very quickly I "lost" my yogurt & juice that I had to eat that day so the nurses gave me an IV because they were afraid I was dehydrated. They checked me & said I was only 2.5 cm - possibly could stretch me to a 3. I was pretty bummed when I heard that because I had been a 2 for the last 2 weeks & the way I was feeling I was sure I would be at least a 4.

Since my water had already broke the nurses didn't want to check me that often as to not risk an infection. Our doula Nicole showed up & soon after Adam's mom & her husband. The parents were escorted down to the waiting room while Adam, Nicole & I walked the halls. During a contraction I buried my face into Adam's chest, put my arms around his neck & we would sway together - this approach seemed to help the best. After each contraction I would feel so exhausted that all I wanted to do was sit down & close my eyes so I really didn't walk for very long, I just wanted to lay down.

From 3pm to about 6pm I was laboring with Adam & Nicole just trying to breathe through each contraction. Adam had asked the nurse since they weren't going to check me very often how would they know how dilated I was. She said they just go off of the mother & her reaction, she then predicted that I probably wouldn't have the baby until 1 am or so! I heard that comment & just told Adam: "I can't go that long!"

Soon after that I really started to feel the need to push - either push out the baby or something else. I went over to the bathroom but when I didn't need to push the "something else" I knew it was the baby. Through the pain I told Adam & Nicole that "I couldn't do this anymore" & they knew I was serious since that was the first time I had said that all night. Nicole ran out to get a nurse, when the nurse checked me I was a 9!

Very quickly the nurse started to page my Dr. & get the room prepped for delivery. I was a little out of it but when I heard the word "stat" I knew this baby was coming & probably pretty quickly.
My Dr. was not responding to the page so they had to bring in the hospital's midwife to help me deliver. She was with me for the first initial few pushes & then an on-call Dr. came in to finish the labor.
Adam was a little nervous my Dr. was not there to deliver this baby but by this point I could have cared less who was there...he was coming & I was ready! I gave probably a good 8-10 pushes & Merrick was born at 6:51pm after almost 5 hours of total labor.

20 min. after he was born my Dr. came into the room shocked! She was in the O.R. & saw the page but by the time she was finished the baby was here. She & the nurses said that with first deliveries they rarely go that quickly & I was probably 1 out of 100 that labors that fast.

All-in-all I think I had a great labor despite my doctor not being there. Having him without medication was bearable but right after the delivery I was convinced we were only going to have 1 child...how quickly my mind forgets the pain!
It was so special to be able to hold our precious little guy for the first time. His eyes were wide open for so long after he was delivered that I just couldn't stop staring at him. I was so grateful to have Adam there with me laboring, it was so comforting to know he was right by my side the whole time, tickling my arm, rubbing my back, kissing my forehead, etc. Our doula Nicole was wonderful! I think if it was just Adam & I we would have been a little stressed & overwhelmed...who knows, I probably would of had the baby over the toilet if she didn't run out to grab a nurse!

MERRICK - "Ruler of the Sea"

2009-03-19T12:47:00.000-07:00

Enjoy some of the latest pics of our little man:

Allow us to introduce "Merrick Adam Marquis" - born on March 16, 2009 at 6:51pm. Although his parents have bias, we think he is the cutest little thing in the whole world - weighing in at 8 lbs 5 ounces with a 19.5-in reach.

Melissa = Champion Mother
Adam = Survived the scene and tried to keep it cool
The Doula (Nicole) = Comforted all and kept the communication flowing

Still Waiting...

2009-03-13T13:24:00.000-07:00

Oh my bags are packed, I'm ready to go....

I will be 40 weeks on Monday, which is my due date - I didn't think I would get this impatient. I'm not uncomfortable in any way & I feel great actually but I'm just excited to see our baby & start our adventure together as parents, as mommy & daddy.
I know what all you mothers are thinking..."Oh just wait, a baby will change your life! Enjoy this time together!"
Yes - Adam & I are aware that a baby will change our life, that is why we waited 5 years to start. We have LOVED being married & the fun adventures we have been on together, I don't think I will ever take them for granted BUT we are also ready for this next stage of our life & won't know how much a child will change & bless our life until we experience it for ourselves - which we are excited to do!

2nd Round Of Being Spoiled

2009-03-08T21:53:00.000-07:00

February 28th Shower

My wonderful sister in-laws & my wonderful mother in-law threw me a baby shower last Saturday at the Black Canyon Country Club in Newport Beach. Once again Baby Marquis was spoiled with wonderful gifts! I had such a great time & I'm so lucky to have such wonderful friends & family.
My mom & my oldest sister Adrienne flew out for the weekend to be with me & I loved having them there. We had beautiful weather & great girl time (Adam was in Las Vegas for the weekend).

*Pictures starting from the top:
-The lovely decorations & treats
-My sister Adrienne & I
-Me & my mom
-All the Marquis sister in-laws (Adam's only sister Michelle lives in UT & was wasn't able to fly out - but we sure did miss her!)
-Adam's cousins & his mom
-One of my gifts, an adorable Hurley sweatshirt & little Hurley jeans.
(I look horrible in all the other photos of me opening gifts - I'm talking eyes closed & double chins!)

Showered With Gifts

2009-03-02T11:25:00.000-08:00

On Feb. 21st I had a baby shower here in L.A. with all the wonderful women I have met through church.
These are my wonderful friends who planned the whole baby shower for me - L to R:
Whitney, Kristi, me, Kinohi & Jamie. They did such a great job & I'm so lucky to have them around!
There were many more pictures but they are not suitable for blogging. I'm surprised I even included some of these - I just love getting swollen!

Kristi & I are just a few weeks apart (she's having a girl) so it is fun to talk about our progress with the little bambinos.

One of the games we played was to piece together different parts of my face & Adam's face to make a child...there were some interesting arrangements that's for sure. Some of the categories included: Most likely to go to prison or Most likely to be picked last for kickball. Some of the pictures of Adam were from his bearded days so I'm hoping our child won't be THAT hairy coming out of the womb!

Whitney & I posing with the adorable diaper cake she got me.

Whisper House

2009-02-24T10:00:00.000-08:00

When I first married Adam he would always tell me that he couldn't wait until Duncan Sheik toured again. The year he released his album "White Limousine" & went on tour we saw him 4 times that year! Yes, we were stalkers & would gather with the other Denver stalkers at each venue.
When Adam saw he was coming to L.A. he went & bought 6 tickets, knowing his family & friends would like to go...unfortunately Adam had to fly to Italy for work the same week as the concert! Chad, Chris & Courtney drove up from Orange County & then Ben & Sara Jensen came along as well. After the show we were able to take some pictures with Duncan & his guitarist Gerry (he used to play with David Bowie). Adam will play a lot of Duncan Sheik songs to our baby so I thought it would be fun to document our little guy at a Duncan concert.

Friday the 13th or Valentine's Day?

2009-02-14T20:59:00.000-08:00

Last night Chris & Courtney invited us over for a fun fondue night! We had some yummy steak, cheese & chocolate fondue (my favorite). It was a great little Valentine's celebration for Adam & I because this afternoon Adam had to fly to Italy for work. He felt bad leaving me on Valentine's Day but over the years Adam has surprised me with some great V-days so I'm quite content watching a movie tonight & going to bed early.

Mommy & Me Monday Morning Movie

2009-02-11T11:13:00.000-08:00

Wow! My title has a lot of M's...
Every Monday at The Grove here in L.A. is a mommy movie where babies & toddlers are invited. Since I'm not working & almost a mommy I tagged along to watch "He's Just Not That In To You".
I was surprised at how non-distracted I was by the little cries or baby babble that was filled through out the movie. I'm excited to bring my little one soon.
The stroller parking stretched all the way down the hall...it was insane how many strollers there were. It was a great Girl's Day Out!

swollen & fat...this is the life!

2009-02-06T11:17:00.000-08:00

Last weekend Adam & I drove down to Dana Pt. for the night. It is great to have the option of leaving downtown L.A. & stay by the beach with beautiful, sunny weather. Adam wanted to get out & use our camera & wanted me to be the subject...feeling swollen & round I wasn't too excited but it is nice to have some documentation of my wonderful growing self!

I'm no longer working & I love being home during the day to get stuff done that I normally wouldn't have the energy to do after being at work all day...

but some days I would rather just sit & be lazy - I'm going to enjoy it while I can!

2009-01-26T20:34:00.000-08:00

33 weeks & he weighs as much as a pineapple...yum, one of my favorite fruits! I do feel bigger everyday plus I think I'm starting to waddle a little bit & I can tell my face is getting more round, hmm...should I stop eating a gallon of ice cream by myself?

Also, I just found out yesterday that my OB/GYN has a show on Discovery Health called "Deliver Me" - Wow, I had no clue! I saw a camera there once but I guess I just thought it was for a local news interview or something. Well, I really like her whether she has a show or not. If you want to check out the show her name is Dr. Allison Hill.

New Year Pizza Night

2009-01-11T21:04:00.000-08:00

To celebrate the New Year our sister in-law's parents included some of the Marquis clan in their traditional homemade pizza making night. We had a great time feasting on amazing pizza, enjoying each other's company & reflecting on the past year...Oh yeah, and Adam & I were able to test out our new camera on some great subjects!

Pizza Pizza!

2009-01-11T20:58:00.000-08:00

Bored on a Friday night

2009-01-10T00:30:00.000-08:00

I really shouldn't say that I'm "bored" as I really just am choosing to NOT do the things I need to get done this weekend. Adam is gone for the night so I decided to be lazy by taking a nap which caused me to miss a pre-natal yoga class I was planning to attend...so instead I watched a chick flick & ate some stale mini marshmallows...no stale marshmallows are not from any cravings, I've always loved them & purposely leave the bag open to quicken the process.

So here are some pictures of the belly at 30, almost 31 weeks. I haven't done a great job at documenting the growth but everyone seems to let me know how big I am getting. A security guy at the airport asked if I was having twins. Really? Twins? That is why I am not showing off the belly!

Christmas '08 in UT

2009-01-09T23:02:00.000-08:00

Immediately following Hawaii Adam and I flew to UT for Christmas. I loved being with family and enjoying the snow while we were there, I just didn't do a great job at taking any photos...but for Christmas I did get a new Nikon camera so hopefully there will be some better photography to come from both of us!

My good friend Holly is just a few weeks ahead of me & having a girl so we decided to get together for lunch & give baby gifts. It was great to catch up & see each other during the holidays.

Christmas Eve with sisters & spouses - thanks to Clark & Laura for bringing their camera & tripod so we could actually get a picture of our whole family.

Just the girls

My little sister's dog Izzy dressed as a reindeer on Christmas morning

Adam getting ready to sing angelically on Christmas

My dad & sister as Mary & Joseph with my nephew Jack as baby Jesus. I don't think there was quite that big of an age gap between Mary & Joseph it's just that all the young boys wanted to be shepherds.

Kauai Mo Betta

2009-01-04T23:13:00.001-08:00

On Dec. 13th Adam and I headed to Kauai with our friends, the Hyde's. We were there for one week which happened to be during the same time as one of the biggest storms in Hawaii in the past decade. There was flooding in Oahu with plenty of rain & clouds in Kauai but we made the best of it & enjoyed our lazy days.
Some of the things we didn't photograph included dune buggies in the mud (pregnant women excluded), massages for Adam & I, snorkeling & getting kicked out of the Grand Hyatt's swimming pool!

Yummiest Hot Dogs Ever!

Waimea Canyon

This was the best we could see of the canyon - on our way to the very top. When we arrived to the top all we could see was a sheet of gray clouds...oh well the ride up was nice.

Danny & Adam building their crocodile in the sand to give tribute to "crockin" it - kind of looked like a croc/T-rex in the end (this was for you Crofts!)

The muddy walk to Kipu Falls

The Falls we walked to the top of - it didn't quite look like this, the water was running much faster because of all the rain! (stole this photo from the web)

Crossing the river above the falls - I chose to NOT cross and just snap photos while sitting on the rocks. Adam and I had been to Kipu falls 4 yrs. ago so I knew what I was missing.
"Crockin" it across the river

Annie & I with Hanalei Valley behind us - North side of Island

Adam and I bought a few water colors from this guy

Bubba's Burgers in Hanalei

Adam chasing a rooster

Wailua Falls

1/2 A Decade of Marital Bliss

2009-01-04T22:55:00.000-08:00

Adam and I celebrated our 5 yr. anniversary on Dec. 12th. Instead of the typical flowers someone may receive on their anniversary, Adam went for a more untraditional surprise. I loved the giant cookie with a fortune inside...written by Adam himself!
That evening we ran over to the L.A. temple before dinner and walked around the grounds to enjoy the Christmas lights & nativity - then over to dinner at Gordan Ramsey's restaurant. I couldn't of asked for a better night with an amazing husband.

Walking In An L.A. Live Wonderland

2008-12-10T19:41:00.000-08:00

On Friday we went with our friends over to the new L.A. Live by the Nokia & Staples Center. They had a so-called "light show" with the Christmas tree but it only lasted 6 min. and wasn't too impressive but we are excited for all the new restaurants, movie theater(not open yet), Lucky Strike bowling, Grammy Museum and Club Nokia (small concert venue) all just 2 blocks away!
There were some girls dressed in these interesting white spandex outfits walking around (pictured above) - we didn't quite understand the point. Pregnant or not, I would never be caught wearing white spandex! It does feel more festive downtown this year. Thanks to the Brewer's for having their camera and letting me steal these pictures off their blog!

Thanksgiving Weekend '08

2008-11-30T20:05:00.001-08:00

For Thanksgiving this year Adam and I were in Santa Barbara with our friends, the Jensen's. Adam's dad was nice enough to let us stay at his home & use his kitchen but I think our Thanksgiving feast made up for it!

The boys right before dinner time

Adam making his delicious corn & crab chowder...it was amazing!

Ben making our gravy

My first time making rolls - thanks to my cousin Megan for the great recipe. I wasn't quite sure how to form the rolls so we all helped make different variations but they tasted yummy so I didn't care if they weren't perfectly uniform.

Finished product

Our table filled with all the food for just 5 people

Turkey & Sausage - you can never have too much meat!

The complete meal

The day after Thanksgiving the boys played some golf so Sara & I drove up to the little Danish town of Solvang - just over the hills of Santa Barbara. This was a first for both of us & we loved it!
The weather so nice nice and the town was decorated for the holidays, we couldn't have asked for a better day.

A shot of the town with one of the windmills

Sara & I did a little Christmas shopping & had to take a picture with the horse drawn trolley car

You can't visit a Danish town without eating some yummy Aebleskivers!

That afternoon we all relaxed in the hot tub - Adam & Ben showing off their "Vogue" moves for the camera

Surprise Baby Shower

2008-11-10T12:04:00.000-08:00

Bring on the babies!
Last Thursday some of us girls got together for a "Girls' Night" but really planning a surprise shower for our friend Shanna. Shanna and I only live a couple blocks away so I was to "conveniently" show up late...which is actually just my normal arrival time - late!
There was definite baby talk since 3 of us are pregnant and 2 girls have newborns - but it was fun just being with girls for a night. Plus I was thrilled to go shopping for a baby girl!

2008-11-04T18:19:00.000-08:00

Now we get to just wait & see! I'm more nervous about Prop 8 passing here in CA than who becomes president.

Party Time

2008-11-03T19:27:00.000-08:00

Adam: "I want a piece of the glory, see what it tastes like!"
Melissa: "Walk like an Egyptian"

The High School boys

Adam and I were a little last minute this Halloween in rounding up costumes. We headed up to Santa Barbara to attend a party with some of Adam's high school friends. Last minute Adam grabbed his Nacho Libre hat and threw on his 70's suit to transform into Nacho with his "leisure suit". I quickly threw together an Egyptian/Cleopatra look and thanks to my father in-law for owning an actual middle eastern headband!

Halloween At School

2008-11-03T18:52:00.000-08:00

Thursday at school we carved pumpkins with the kiddos. Our sensory children were NOT interested in sticking their hands into the pumpkins.
If you enlarge the first photo you can see that my little Justin is more upset about getting his head touched instead of any pumpkin guts!

Halloween Day

Me & Justin

Some of the kids in their costumes...I went as a lady bug.

Justin had fun wearing my lady bug antennae & this was about the same time his sugar high kicked in & he went berserk for the rest of the afternoon!

IT'S A...

2008-10-28T11:55:00.000-07:00

After sitting at the doctor's office for about 45 min. and going crazy we finally found that our lil' hobbit will stay a lil' frodo hobbit. Adam and I are expecting a BOY!!

I had a feeling that it was a boy and we couldn't be happier!
The doctor even said he is a little "robust" for being at 20 weeks but she would rather see a bigger baby than a smaller baby at this point in pregnancy - our due date stayed the same - March 16th. Everything looked "normal" and that is all I want to hear with pregnancy is "normal"!
I've definitely felt him move around and I love it, Adam's even been able to put his hand on my belly and feel him move. Since he is floating in liquid maybe he is getting ready for his surf lessons from Daddy!

Yes on 8

2008-10-27T15:50:00.000-07:00

Why do I always see No on 8 signs displayed together with Obama & Biden signs?
Obama & Biden define marriage between a man & women. Here in CA a homosexual couple has all the same rights as a heterosexual couple - they just can't define their civil union as a "marriage".

Finally....

2008-10-20T00:15:00.000-07:00

I caught up with everything I wanted to blog! The date goes all the way back to September - wow, I've been slacking.
Adam and I have been staying busy but I'm enjoying this time of year, I just wish it would cool down a little bit. I don't know if I can handle any more days in 90 degree weather, even my kids at school don't want to play in the sun. They all crowd around in the shaded areas with the teachers, the poor things!
Hopefully all these posts can sustain our blog for a couple weeks while we spend our time making our last phone calls for Prop 8. Vote Yes!

More Birthday Fun...

2008-10-19T23:58:00.000-07:00

On the actual day of Adam's birthday we went to dinner with Adam's dad to a restaurant here in LA called Providence. The restaurant had great food but we just had to laugh at the cheesecake we ordered to share...a little small but just enough to fulfill the need for something sweet following dinner. Adam's birthday was on a Thursday so on Friday night Adam and I headed to Santa Monica to stay at the Viceroy Hotel. We had a gift certificate that we needed to use up - the hotel was awesome and we loved the decor.
A great way to finish up a 30th birthday celebration!

Adam's Surprise Party

2008-10-19T23:33:00.000-07:00

I really look pregnant in this picture - I think it's the shirt

Adam posing with all the ladies

The day before Adam's birthday I decided to have a little surprise party for him with our friends here in downtown LA. The Jensen's were willing to host the party at their building since it had the big community area. In order for us to get Adam to the building Ben & Sara cooked Adam and I a fabulous pre-birthday dinner before heading down to be surprised by friends, all Adam's brothers and a sister in-law. It was a fun night and a great start to the rest of his birthday weekend.

Food, Food & More Food!

2008-10-19T23:09:00.000-07:00

On Sept. 26th Adam & I headed to Pomona with our friends Ben & Sara to attend the LA County Fair. We decided to arrive in style by riding in on a rickshaw and then headed straight for the corn dogs, sausage sandwiches and the block of fries. Once we met up with Chris & Courtney we ordered and conquered the Mexican Funnel cake! Sara ordered a deep fried snickers and Chris & Courtney tried one of the deep fried White Castle hamburgers...how many calories do you think we consumed that night? I don't even want to know!

Taste of Newport

2008-10-19T22:48:00.000-07:00

Adam and I headed down to Newport Beach Friday, Sept. 19th to attend the Taste of Newport with Chris and Courtney. I wish I could remember all of the different food samplings we ate but let's just say they were good and we ate a lot! Third Eye Blind was performing that night but we chose to eat instead, lil' hobbit was quite happy I'm sure.