Hilburn Happenings

cute video clips

2010-02-23T12:05:00.000-08:00

Mailee loves babies and goes around saying baby none-stop. if she sees a baby she wants to kiss it. Just like doggies! I think babies, doggies and milka are her 3 favorite things!

15 month update

2010-02-23T11:53:00.000-08:00

Well... another milestone and I need to record this stuff so I have something to reference when I get around to making Mailee's scrapbook.
At 15 months you have really turned into a toddler and are no longer a baby (bittersweet to be seeing you grow so fast)
You have such a personality... you know what you want and you go for it! (and sometimes you get a very frustrated when you can't do something perfectly (hum... could you have gotten your daddy's perfectionism?)
You are talking up a storm! Lots of new words and the funniest ones are the words w/the letter "k" at the end b/c you say "ka" like, Milka, ducka, blocka, it's cute!
You are still small... but growing none-the-less... only 19 lbs and 30 inches. (but in the 10% for weight and 20% for height)
You love your new carseat (just sitting in it) although you aren't quite big enough to actually use it in the car. :(
more teeth are in (your 3 upper, your 4 lower and even 2 molars!)
You eat everythign - even vegetables and love the healthy shakes mommy and melody make for you. (who would guess all the healthy stuff we hide in them)

You love love love babies! and baby dolls and your teapot!
oh and music and dancing - you just can't get enough!

Tet - Happy Year of the Tiger!

2010-02-23T11:49:00.000-08:00

This year we went to Pho in honor of Tet. Mailee of course didn't eat it, but she played with the chopsticks. She also wore the same outfit Bonbou got her last year for Tet. (it actually fit her this year - maybe the one she got this year will fit her next year)

Mailee loves San Diego just as much as us!!!

2010-02-23T10:35:00.000-08:00

John had to go to San Diego for work, so we decided it was the perfect time for me and Mailee to meet him down there and find out if she loved it as much as we do.
SHE DID!!!! We had the best time and it just felt "right" to be back there.
We took Mailee to the zoo, the beach, of course to our old stomping grounds. Scott (her godfather) made a trip down from LA to spend some time with us too. It was awesome!!!

Trying to fill some BIG shoes :)

2010-01-24T22:47:00.000-08:00

Got some hilarious pictures and video of Mailee putting mine and John's shoes on and trying to walk around the house in them. Just had to post! :)Also, she is obsessed with the phone...does that mean i'm on it too much???

First trip to ER

2010-01-24T22:41:00.000-08:00

Well... with how active Mailee is, I'm honestly surprised she made it 14 months....
We had our first trip to the ER for a busted lip... poor thing had to get 2 stitches. To be honest, I think it was worse for mommy than Mailee (although her non-stop screaming would have one thinking otherwise). She is fine now... and we are hoping it won't be too bad a scar. As Heather said "She is just trying to take after her mommy with a scar on her face)

Christmas & Hawaii

2010-01-24T21:57:00.000-08:00

Well, December has come and gone...January is coming to a close and I'm realizing I have been terrible with the blog (which isn't good when I finally get around to doing Mailee's scrapbook b/c I use this blog to remember things).So to play catch up... December was a blast and full of adventures for Mailee. Much different than last Christmas when she was only 6 weeks old! It was funny to see Mailee interact w/ Santa on two occasions (local events here in Anacortes (the tree display and bfast w/ santa) Both times she was unsure of him and didn't want to get too close to him w/o mommy near by. I'm sure in another year or two she will realize that kissing up to Santa has its rewards. :)

In mid-December we met Grandma & Grandpa R, Liz, Fred and Liam (and baby girl O) in Hawaii to for a little Rhynerson family reunion/pre-Christmas celebration. It was an amazing trip. Who knew how quickly 10 days in Hawaii could fly by :(

Although sad to leave paradise and spending time with everybody that we miss so much, we were also excited to come back and celebrate Christmas with Mimi, Papa, Jay, Deanne, Austin & Jack. We enjoyed our time together despite Mailee and Mommy getting the rest of the family sick :(

Since mommy and mailee were still not better by New Years Eve, we had to cancel our plans to meet friends up at Whistler and rang in the New Years at home with Jay, Deanne and the boys (the most low-key new years thus far for mom and dad - but we enjoyed our company none-the-less)

As the year came to an end we couldn't be happier looking back at the wonderful times that 2009 brought us (our first year with our little buggie) We can't wait to see what 2010 has in store for us!

Thanksgiving

2009-12-07T22:58:00.001-08:00

Mailee's One

2009-12-05T13:53:00.000-08:00

In what seemed like a blink of an eye, our little pumpkin turned into a one year old. Both John and I are thrilled to see Mailee hit her big milestone birthday, but I can't help that my heart aches a little as I realize the years will continue to go by even faster. It has been a joy watching her blossom and grow. Grandma R came out to help celebrate Mailee's birthday and summed up her personality in just one word "independent". She knows what she wants, is determined to get it and is quite fine trying to accomplish things all on her own. It is hard to even get her to stay still long enough to snap a picture... she is constantly on the go.

Oh Mailee, even though you are independent, adventurous and silly you are loving and sweet as well. You still adore your doggie, Sahara and love to give her and all your teddy bears kisses. We still haven't found a food that you don't like (birthday cake was no exception... after you tried the frosting you decided it would be best if you just planted your face right into the cake to get as much in your mouth as possible).
You are a very social little one and absolutely enjoy being around other kids and adults too. (Just as long as somebody you really know (like mommy, daddy or melody) is near by.)

At your 1 year appointment we found out you must have had a big growth spurt... You made it up into the 35% for height ad 10% for weight. (Still small, but healthy and strong).

We love you so very much and feel so blessed to be the ones that get to witness and watch you continue to grow through the years sweetie!

Buggie goes Treak or Treating

2009-11-02T21:13:00.000-08:00

We decided on a ladybug costume this year (seemed appropriate since Mailee's godmother, Jen started calling her ladybug, girlybug, buggie, maileebug or plain old bug :) Surprisingly, Mailee seemed to enjoy being in her costume and strolled around downtown Anacortes to trick or treat. Mimi joined in on the fun too. Of course, she really didn't have a need for candy quite yet, but it was fun none-the-less.

decisions... decisions... :)

2009-10-31T10:22:00.000-07:00

a strawberry, a cat, a drunk old man/Benjamin Button or a ladybug???
seriously though... is it scary that Mailee resembles Benjamin Button or a drunk old man in the picture of us hiking with Scott (her godfater)?
We couldn't stop laughing at it!!

Is the cheerleader outfit bad luck?

2009-10-20T14:48:00.000-07:00

Kitty, Jeff and Gracie brought Mailee her first Hokie cheerleader outfit from Virginia when the came to visit. It is adorable... but I'm worried that it was bad luck. The day she wore it the Hokies lost to Ga. Tech. Oh well, at least she was cute in her orange and maroon. (And since Ashely's husband is a GT coach at least i'm happy for them) :)
I have to post a picture of Sahara too... it's old.. but between the two shots of her and Mailee.. i think they portray how upset we are when the hokies have an off game and lose. :(

Pumpkin Patch

2009-10-20T14:38:00.000-07:00

Mailee's first trip to the pumpkin patch was so exciting! Just like the tulips in the spring, she was mesmerized by all of the pumpkins. It was adorable... but it also meant that I couldn't get my perfect picture of her actually looking at the camera... why would she want to when there were so many pumpkins to examine, touch and explore.

Vancouver

2009-10-20T14:26:00.001-07:00

John and I have been wanting to getaway to Vancouver since we moved here and we finally got a chance to go since John had a long weekend. In two days we were able to visit the most popular attractions (Stanley Park, Granville Island, Gastown, Robson St. Chinatown etc.). Mailee enjoyed all of it but when we got home she had her first fever... 103.7 YIKES! She's all better now though!

The Harpers Visit!!!

2009-10-07T13:36:00.000-07:00

Kitty and Jeff braved a cross country flight with Gracie (14 months) to visit us! We felt honored and enjoyed every last second of their visit. It was so amusing to see the girls together and to dress them up in coordinating outfits daily! We realized we had a problem when we almost dressed a like ourselves. :)
We had outings to La Conner, San Juan Island and to Seattle. The boys spent a day fishing and us girls couldn't have been happier just hanging out, lunching, sipping wine and reminiscing. We already miss them so much!

New York - Our first trip sans Mailee!!!

2009-09-26T21:58:00.000-07:00

Geoff and Erin were getting married in New York City so we took our first trip without Mailee to celebrate with them. Daddy had been away from Mailee before but it was the first time I had left Mailee overnight (4 days for that matter). We knew she was in good hands with Melody though so we truly enjoyed "partying" with our friends like the good old days.

Bowman Bay

2009-09-14T21:12:00.000-07:00

Even though we had a long day at the fair on Saturday we couldn't waste another beautiful, sunny day (it is only a matter of time before we have days and days of gray). So, Sunday we spent the day at Bowman Bay near Deception Pass and couldn't believe that we hadn't been before! The views from our hike were just breathtaking!
It will certainly become one of our usual hikes now! Mailee just loves being outside and taking in the scenery.

Puyallup Fair

2009-09-12T20:59:00.000-07:00

The day you turned 10 months old we headed 2 hours south for the annual Puyallup Fair. Mommy was quite excited, as she had fond memories of the event from her childhood when she grew up in Ft. Lewis, Washington. Daddy also enjoyed the fair in his youth too. It was a gorgeous sunny day, perfect for strolling around the exhibits and munching on the famous strawberry scones. We took a picture with the giant pumpkins, which seemed appropriate since you are our little pumpkin. You weren't big enough to go on the rides, but we enjoyed watching Austin and Jack have their fun and you were zonked out by the end of the day anyway. Maybe next year you can join them on the merry-go-round.

Labor Day with Scott

2009-09-06T20:40:00.000-07:00

We were thrilled that Scott visited us from L.A. over the Labor Day weekend. Although VT lost their first game to Alabama, we enjoyed watching the game together, reminiscing about the good old days, hiking Washington Park and fishing. Mailee seemed to take a real liking to Scott too! We already miss him.

Check out Scott's catch vs. John's catch. HA!

Thank you Logan!

2009-09-04T13:21:00.000-07:00

Mailee received an awesome package in the mail from Logan! Lots of clothes!! Not sure if she liked the box more than the clothes themselves, but mommy sure is grateful.
Thanks Logan. We love you!!

Walking Video

2009-09-01T21:23:00.000-07:00

OK... here it is... it isn't the best, but most of you know that Mailee doesn't like to perform for the camera. :)

It's official...she's walking!

2009-08-31T22:26:00.000-07:00

Mailee has been taking baby steps (between 2 and 10 steps) for a few weeks now, but this week I can report that she is truly walking. Over the weekend she has really mastered this skill and can walk across the room fairly quickly. It is very exciting and I know that I have promised video to some of you and will get it up this week (hopefully). But until then, I thought it wouldn't hurt to share this photo... It is one that truly shows how coordinated she is... How many babies can walk AND pick their nose at the same time. HA HA!

Boating

2009-08-31T22:21:00.000-07:00

Mailee went boating for the 2nd time this past weekend with her Papa, Uncle Jay, Austin, Jack, Mommy and Daddy. I wish I could report that she had a blast like her daddy said she did the first time. Of course this time mommy got to join in on the fun but Mailee just wanted out of her life jacket... daddy was entertaining the idea of buying a boat... perhaps Mailee is trying to tell him that she'd rather him save the money for a pony. HA!

A visit from Mailee's "GrandGodmother"

2009-08-31T22:12:00.000-07:00

So we might have made that title up, but there has to be a title for Jen's mom who both Mailee and her mommy adore. Gwen came for a visit and Mailee sure did enjoy swinging, learning about gardening, talking gibberish and showing off her walking skills with her. We hope to see her again soon! (maybe in November :)

Happy Birthday Babe/Daddy!

2009-08-19T16:32:00.000-07:00

Between April 9th and Aug 19th I have to listen to John tease me about how much older I am than him. He thinks it is funny that he can say I am 2 years older when that really isn't the case...obviously when Aug. 19th roles around I am happy to put the joking to rest until the following year. ;) John and I went on an actual date to the Oyster Bar on Chucanut Drive the night of his birthday. Then over the weekend we celebrated with Mimi, Papa, Jay, Deanne, Austin, Jack, Nan, Stan and Julia. The boys went fishing and caught a salmon nearly big enough for the entire town of Anacortes to feast on :)

Hilburn Family Reunion

2009-08-15T22:38:00.000-07:00

What a treat, Mailee got to meet daddy's extended family when Leslie, David, Bradie Bobby and Stu made a trip west for a family reunion weekend. We enjoyed having them and hope that it won't be another 6 1/2 years before we get together again. The last time we were all together was at our wedding in the keys.
I hope to get more pictures to post once they are sent out.

9 months already???

2009-08-14T16:28:00.000-07:00

Is it possible that Mailee is now 9 months old?? Where has the time gone? Today we had her check up and although she is growing, she is still a little peanut.
She is now 15 lbs 13 oz (8th %) and 26 1/2 inches long (15%). Doc says she is healthy as can be though and was quite surprised at her balance and strength.
Mailee has been standing up all on her own (not pulling) for over a month now. She has even taken a couple of steps unassisted, but I wouldn't call it "walking". We are chasing her everywhere these days though and know it is only a matter of time before she will be running! She has fun making all sorts of sounds (some are hard to take b/c they are so high pitched), clapping, pointing, and eating (oh boy does she love her food - kinda like mommy :) We are continuing to introduce solids one by one and she still likes EVERYTHING (tofu, yogurt, avocado, etc. etc.) Good thing she is getting more teeth b/c she is going to need them for all the food she intakes. One of her top teeth started breaking through when she was 8 1/2 months old. I look forward to seeing her smile with her pearly whites all in one day.

Fun at the Beach

2009-08-14T16:18:00.000-07:00

Since we were back east, we couldn't pass up a trip to Virginia Beach to visit friends and give Pop and Bonbou the chance to take Mailee to the beach. It was a quick trip, but so much fun! Mailee especially loved finally meeting Quinn and getting to hang out w/ Gracie again. She told mommy that she wished she lived closer to her friends. :(
(mommy does too)

Trip to Virginia

2009-08-14T16:08:00.000-07:00

Mommy decided it had been too long since she had seen her family and friends back in Virginia and decided to take a last minute trip with Mailee. She was a little nervous to fly across the country with Mailee all by herself, but was glad she did.
Mailee was GREAT on the plane and the trip was well worth it. She got to spend some quality time w/ her aunt Liz, Uncle Fred and Cousin Liam, was loved on a bunch by Pop and Bonbou and of course mommy enjoyed visiting with all the people she loves and misses so much. Thanks Heather and Mom and Dad for hosting dinner parties. We had a blast!

Take Me Out to the Ball Game...

2009-08-14T16:00:00.000-07:00

Daddy couldn't wait to take Mailee to her first MLB game and he got to do it a few weeks ago when we took her to Safeco Field to watch the Seattle Mariners. The timing was perfect - it was sunny and beautiful, it was "kids day" and Mailee seemed to enjoy the environment. The only downfall was that the Mariners lost. Regardless, we had fun teaching Mailee the words to "Take Me Out to the Ball Game" during the 7th inning stretch.

Cannon Beach Trip

2009-07-14T10:11:00.000-07:00

Mailee enjoyed her first trip to the beach last weekend. We had a wonderful time even though the weather wasn't the best - it was still a chance to getaway. We spent time with Jay, Deanne, the boys and Louise. John even got a chance to go surfing like the good old days in San Diego (but with a wetsuit of course:)
Since it was cool, Mailee didn't get to play in the sand on the beach, but we had fun watching Austin and Jack explore the tide pools and Mailee got to put her "swimming lessons" to use at the indoor pools.

Buggie misses her Godmother

2009-07-07T11:46:00.000-07:00

Thank you Jen for making the trip to come visit us... we miss you already! We need to make your trip west an annual tradition! You've already seen so much b/w this year and last year! San Juan Islan, La Conner, Coupville, Fairhaven etc. etc... Next year we will hit B.C.!

4th of July!

2009-07-07T11:22:00.000-07:00

Mailee was very patriotic on her first 4th of July decked out in Red, White and Blue! It was a gorgeous, sunny and even HOT summer day... we started at the Parade downtown, then the family (and even Mailee's Godmother, Jen) BBQ'ed. Mailee couldn't stay up late enough to see her first firework show... but maybe next year.

Cute Shots

2009-07-07T11:16:00.000-07:00

Had to share these shots w/ Auntie Liz and Bonbou (sp) and Pop :)
Our little tennis player and for some reason the red makes me think of Liz...I picture Liz having a little girl with a red bow in her hair (but her hair will be dark) :) One day maybe I will be passing on the bows... HA HA

All I want for Independence Day are my two bottom teeth, my two bottom teeth...

2009-07-07T11:08:00.001-07:00

Deanne witnessed Mailee making a mess with her brocolli on 4th of July and snapped this picture. I realized last night when I was downloading all the pics that you can kinda see Mailee's 2 bottom teeth :)
Check them out.

Happy Birthday Melody!

2009-06-26T09:46:00.000-07:00

So happy you are closing the huge age gap between us! Ha Ha. We are so lucky to have you as not only our nanny but our friend. Mailee loves you!

Check out the BLING on Melody's finger... SHE'S ENGAGED!! :)

Our little Hokie

2009-06-24T10:01:00.000-07:00

Mailee finally fits into the cute onesie that Todd and Erika sent.
We had to snap a picture of our little Hokie.

Swim Lessons

2009-06-24T09:35:00.001-07:00

Monday Mailee had her first swim lesson... I would love to report that she enjoyed the water just as much as her daddy does, but that wasn't the case... I think she cried 80% of the time :( We THINK she may have just been cold, so we ordered her a baby wetsuit for next week's lesson... we shall see.
Here are a few pictures... don't be fooled though... she really did cry the majority of the time.. I don't know why my pictures don't show it.

7 month update!

2009-06-22T10:18:00.000-07:00

It seems like just yesterday John and I were figuring out how to change a diaper or burp our little pumpkin... then you blink and 7 months have passed! So many changes and she is growing so fast (well, kinda 14.5 lbs ;)... we couldn't imagine life without her and I just love starting each and every day with her sweet smile and baby talk in the mornings!

Let's see.... Mailee is up to all sorts of things now... she loves "trying" to talk making a variety of sounds and she loves copying the funny sounds we make.
She is a very active little girl too... she is constantly trying to stand up and she doesn't have much interest in crawling anymore.. this girl WANTS to walk, but let's hope we have a little more time before we have to really start chasing her everywhere!
Her two bottom teeth are coming in too... we can see them popping through! I didn't think it was possible... but this motherhood thing just keeps getting better and better!

John's First Father's Day!

2009-06-21T09:59:00.000-07:00

Mailee sure is lucky to have her daddy! From day one she has had him wrapped around her little finger. It is adorable to see the two of them together and as a mom, I couldn't be happier! I love you babe - Happy Father's Day!

We celebrated Father's Day weekend with the Hilburn clan b/c it was also Jay's bday weekend! It is awesome to be able to get the whole family together! Father's Day started out w/ a wonderful breakfast with all the Hilburn dads, then John, Mailee and I headed home to have our own celebration. We surprised him with a BBQ dinner and a digital picture frame loaded w/ tons of Mailee's favorite pictures of her and her daddy!!

Happy Birthday Jay!

2009-06-19T09:51:00.000-07:00

We are so glad that we were able to celebrate the birthday of such an awesome brother, brother-in-law and uncle! We love you!

Happy 40th Anniversary Mom & Dad H!!

2009-06-14T11:24:00.000-07:00

We are so proud to have parents that are celebrating 40 years of marriage! What a milestone... something to be proud of! You have done so much through the years and best of all raised two sons while teaching them the true meaning of love! Thank you for that! We love you!!!

I love these pictures... they make me think of you two looking towards a wonderful future together while reflecting on the memories you've made in the past... standing on the sandy beach looking at the water for some reason just seems right too.

Happy Birthday Chap!!

2009-06-10T11:14:00.000-07:00

Thinking of you on your birthday and missing all the good times we've shared. Can't wait for you and Charlie to come visit us in the Pacific Northwest!

Happy 30th Lauren!!!

2009-06-08T09:27:00.000-07:00

oh Mini, you are turning into a true Cougar now! Wishing we were all back together to celebrate with you. Hurry up and move to Whidbey!!!

Austin Turns 5!!!!

2009-06-03T09:24:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to the sweetest 5 year old boy around! Cha Chi and Cee Cee love you very much!!

Finally... Summer!!!

2009-05-27T10:32:00.000-07:00

The gray days are finally gone! We are getting out and about to start enjoying what has already been an awesome summer! There is probably no better place to be than the Pacific Northwest in the summer months (ok, that might be a bit of an exaggeration, but still)
We have already been out hiking, to Rosario Beach etc. etc. Jay, Deanne and the boys were here over the weekend and we met them for some grilling at the campground. Looking forward to the warm days ahead!

Videos

2009-05-26T21:12:00.000-07:00

So here are a few older videos... I've been meaning to post them, but haven't found the time b/c they take FOREVER. They are from when Mailee first started to crawl and some even from before that when she would do her back flop/scoot. They aren't the best videos b/c I was taking them w/ my camera and it kept running out of space but better than nothing. And of course now she is a much better crawler.. I'll take newer video this week. Grandma R has been bugging me to get these up though.

CRAWLING!!!

2009-05-17T08:51:00.001-07:00

Oh boy... so we've been warned that life as we know it is now over since Mailee has just started to crawl! On Friday when she was just a couple of days past 6 months old and after weeks of trying to coordinate her arms and legs to work together she made it across her bedroom rug to get a toy. She still likes to flip on her back and and do her backbend scoot though too... It is hilarious, I need to post some video of that.
Hopefully John and I have a few days to child proof the house before she really starts taking off!

She is also starting to make a lot more sounds and has lots more to say these days; na, and da are her favorites... Of course on Mother's day she decided to put the sounds da-de together - John got a kick out of that.

Happy Birthday Stac!

2009-05-15T07:38:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to one of my favorite people - EVER! Hope you are enjoying your first birthday as a mom! Wish we were there to enjoy the weekend activities you have planned. We miss you lots!

Can you believe it? 6 MONTHS!

2009-05-12T09:35:00.000-07:00

That old saying "Time flies when you're having fun" sure rings true for us these days.... I am surprised at how quickly the first 6 months have flown by since our little pumpkin, our little grinch, our sunshine has joined our family.
We have been amazed watching Mailee grow (not just physically) but how much her personality has started to shine through. My heart melts every morning when I am greeted by my little sunshine. She always brightens my day with her big smile when I come into her room for the first time. I can tell she thinks the world of me, just as I do her. I love everything about her... how soft her skin feels, her smell, the way she lights up when Sahara enters the room, how she watches her in awe. I love that I can comfort her when she needs comforting and how she can comfort me too. She is silly and sometimes demanding and stubborn - but hey, she IS a mix of John and me :)
My emotions are all over the board with every milestone she hits; they go from excitement and pride to fear and sadness of my baby growing up too quickly. On one hand I can not wait to experience all the "firsts" with Mailee through the years and getting to see the world through her eyes... but I also want to hold on to the precious moments of her as a baby who wants to snuggle with me. My good friend, Meredith (who has 3 children, one of whom will be entering high school next year) warned me how quickly the years go by and sometime when I am in a hurry and need to get something done and wishing that Mailee will hurry up and finish nursing... I stop and remember Meredith's warning and advice and hold Mailee's hand and look down at her and think to myself how lucky I am to have my little girl.

Mother's Day

2009-05-10T20:52:00.000-07:00

OK, I'm not going to lie... I was really excited for Mother's Day this year! Of course to let my own mom and MIL know how much I love them, but mostly because I had finally entered "the club" and there was finally another day in every year (besides my birthday) when I would be spoiled and pampered! One of my friends here Jen sure had a good idea: to go out for a ladies night on Saturday that way if we are tired on Sunday and need a break we wouldn't feel bad about having dad step in.
So, obviously I jumped on that. Saturday night I enjoyed an evening out for dinner and cocktails and some "adult" conversation and woke up feeling very lucky to have not only an adorable daughter on Mother's Day but an amazing husband as well.
He got up and got Mailee and we enjoyed her beaming morning personality just relaxing in bed... then he got up and made me breakfast burritos (my fav) and gave me some beautiful white roses (he claims that Mailee picked them out) and best of all the sweetest card.
That took a lot of energy for a new mom who had been out late the night before, so I spent a few hours doing absolutely nothing (who knew nothing could feel so good?)
When I finally felt up for an outing, we headed to Washington Park with Mailee and Sahara and enjoyed a little time enjoying the weather and beautiful scenery.
Of course, it wouldn't be Mother's Day without a little bit of humor: As John was snapping the picture below of me, Mailee in Sahara, Mailee decided to give me a special present - yup... some poop on my shirt and jeans. I felt special. :)
Back home for a delicious Italian dinner prepared by Chef John. Mom and Dad H joined us too. It was an awesome day - the only thing that could have made it better is if my mom could have spent it with us too. But I know that Liz took good care of her.

Our Little Grinch

2009-05-10T20:36:00.000-07:00

One of many nicknames that Daddy and I gave Mailee is Grinch since she tends to be pretty stingy with those smiles... such the serious baby. Of course we couldn't resist this onesie when we saw it in a store during our Langley trip.

Sweet Cousin Austin

2009-05-09T20:47:00.000-07:00

I am always amazed at how much Mailee's oldest cousin Austin looks after her. He always wants to know how Mailee is doing and wants to shower her with so much love. He really does have the biggest heart!
Here's an adorable shot of Austin and Mailee from a couple weekends ago... Austin had picked Mailee a flower and put it behind her ear... Mailee was not so sure about it though. One day she'll know just how lucky she is to have her cousins Austin, Jack and Liam. :)

Welcome Ava Hope

2009-05-05T10:27:00.000-07:00

Angi and Justin just welcomed their baby girl, Ava Hope into their family!
She was 7 lbs 9 oz and 20.5 inches long! Congratulations!!!

Happy Birthday Annie!!

2009-05-03T17:48:00.000-07:00

Can you believe how the years have flown by... can you believe we've been friends for nearly 20 years?? I miss you lots and cherish your friendship! Wish I could have been at your surprise bday bash.
Love You!

More Tulips

2009-05-01T07:32:00.000-07:00

Call me crazy... but I just HAD to go back to get more pictures of the tulips...not once, but twice more :) Soooo pretty! I wish you all could be here to see this!
Who wants to plan a trip for next year???

Yummy.... Solids!

2009-05-01T07:17:00.000-07:00

Just a few days ago, at 5 and 1/2 months Mailee had her first taste of rice cereal and seemed to like it. (Well, the little bit that she actually ate and didn't end up on her face, hands and bib). I thought my house was a mess before this... but I guess it is only going to get worse. Oh well... I wouldn't trade moments like these for a cleaner house. :)
Here are a few pics from the past few days. I'll try to load video a bit later.

Happy Birthday Jen!!

2009-04-28T07:43:00.000-07:00

Today I wish I were back in Virginia to be with Jen as she turns 29 to celebrate! :)
Jen, you are one of my closest and dearest friends and I miss you all the time!
Mailee is lucky to have you as a godmother and I am lucky to have you as my friend.
We are thinking of you and can't wait to see you sometime this summer when you visit. Happy Birthday Beautiful!

Tulips, Tulips Everywhere

2009-04-28T07:23:00.000-07:00

The weather here in Washington can be tough to take in the winter... but Mother Nature sure has a way making it all worth it come Spring time.
Only a few miles from Anacortes, there are fields and fields of tulips and daffodils... they blanket the landscape and delight all that get the chance to see the blooms! John and I are amazed how bright they are... just breathtaking!
The Skagit Valley Tulip festival draws visitors the whole month of April to our area to take pictures of the fields as well as enjoy several other activities planned in celebration of Spring. We had taken Grandma and Grandpa to one of the gardens when they were visiting, but the fields hadn't bloomed yet... what a difference a couple of weeks can make! We took some shots of Mailee yesterday... I hope to go back this week to take a few more to hopefully get a perfect picture of her and the blooms. But in case that doesn't happen here are a few:

A belated Birthday trip to Leavenworth

2009-04-28T06:59:00.000-07:00

John had planned to take me to Leavenworth for my bithday (and no, not the federal penitentiary, but a cute little Bavarian town in Eastern Washington surronded by the Cascades. We had to cancel our plans since the Navy had other plans for John on April 9th, but we postponed the trip and went last weekend.
What a cool place... it really did make me feel like I was back in Germany with the storefronts with items like coocoo clocks inside, the smell of brats and the german beers on tap. And the mountains... it was like a scene from the Sound of Music (OK, not really that beautiful, but still :)
Anyway we lucked out...it was a beautiful weekend and we enjoyed strolling through the town, sampling the food and on Sunday we took Mailee down to to the river and parks and relaxed surrouned by the simple beauty of the place.
Oh Liz, there were kinder eggs there... but I didn't feel up to waiting in line behind 20 kids at the candy store to get them. :(
Dad - there is dog sledding there in the winter... we must go back with you.
Here are some pics

Grandma and Grandpa R visit

2009-04-22T10:25:00.000-07:00

Mailee is sad that Grandma and Grandpa had to go back to Virginia. She enjoyed every minute of her week with them. The time went by too quickly, but we enjoyed seeing the beautiful blooms at the Skagit Valley Tulip festival, visiting Fairhaven, enjoying the views along Chuckanut Drive, going to a winery and strolling around Pikes Place Market. Most of all though Mailee enjoyed being loved, cuddled and kissed so much.

Easter

2009-04-14T08:32:00.000-07:00

Mailee's first Easter was a very special day because she got to spend it with ALMOST her whole family!
We headed to Seattle to enjoy the day with Uncle Jay, Aunt D, Cousins Austin and Jack, Mimi and Papa, Louise, Debbie and Ben... THEN we headed to the airport to pick up Grandma and Grandpa R!!!!
The only person missing was Daddy... we sure did miss him!
oh and of course we missed Aunt Liz, Uncle Fred, and Cousin Liam too! They were having fun together in Virginia and getting ready to go celebrate Ellen and Fred's 40th Anniversary. Here are some pictures for them.

Another Play Date

2009-04-09T08:03:00.000-07:00

Mailee got together again with her friends Georgia and Audriana this week while mommy got to catch up with Jen and Sopanha - and we even had wine...what a treat! :)
Here are some cute pictures of the girls. As you can see, Mailee was worn out when we got home from all the excitement!

A "girly" john

2009-04-05T20:54:00.000-07:00

So everybody always says that Mailee looks just like her daddy... well, John is good-looking and all, but do we really want our precious daughter looking like a boy??? NO!! A friend of mine told me about these baby bows that stay put on practically bald heads.. I couldn't resist! John is not thrilled about this...but oh well! ;)

Trip to Langley

2009-04-05T20:19:00.001-07:00

It finally felt like Spring this weekend... the sun was actually shining! John and I decided Saturday would be a perfect day to go explore a small town called Langley that we have been wanting to visit.
We enjoyed the day strolling in and out of the shops, enjoying the views of the Cascades and lunching at a wonderful bistro. Mailee really wanted to try her daddy's beer... but we told her she was going to have to wait another 20 years and 7 months :)

Sitting Up!

2009-04-03T09:00:00.000-07:00

Another milestone was hit last night at 4 months and 3 weeks old...Mailee sat up! She may have been able to do it sooner, but I hadn't tried to see if she could until yesterday and was really surprised when she did. After waking up this morning we gave it another try and she did it more! I guess crawling will be next...not sure we are quite ready for her to be so mobile. :)
Grandma and Grandpa R will be here in another week and half... we can't wait!!!!
I had to post a few other pictures too... of her smiling in the morning and getting love from Sahara.

Caroline Finishes Half Marathon!

2009-03-29T17:16:00.001-07:00

I don't usually post anything on the blog but I am so proud of Caroline, I wanted everyone to know what a trooper she is. Four and one half months after a painful C-section and recovery she finished her first half marathon in just two hours. She ran through a lot of pain and nagging from her loving husband to reach her goal proving she can do anything she sets her mind to. Much love to all our friends and family for the support and we hope to see you all soon! --John

Mailee's 4 month check-up

2009-03-24T07:29:00.000-07:00

Mailee had her 4 month check up and the doctor said she is perfectly healthy! She is in the 25th percentile for height and head circumference and 40th percentile for length/height...and of course the 100th percentile for cuteness - that's what daddy says at least.

Here are a few of her latest pictures... we found the doggie hat that Liam passed down to Mailee and had to get some shots of her in it. She wore it on our 10 mile run on Sunday (Mommy and Daddy are training for the 1/2 marathon next week and Mailee enjoys making the training extra tough for dad by making him push a stroller)

Had to post some jumperoo pictures too! Mailee seems to love it... Mom on the other hand isn't too pleased with her house turning into a circus with brightly colored baby toys EVERYWHERE! She came down stairs recently to Dad saying "don't open the door, you aren't going to be happy"... not listening, I opened the door to a smiling John and a very happy Mailee... and a HUGE baby jumper added to the swing, bouncy seat, activity mat and exersaucer. OH WELL... I've been outnumbered!

Another Smile Finally Captured on Camera

2009-03-19T08:22:00.000-07:00

Mailee sure doesn't like to hand out smiles... but I finally got another one on camera the other day and had to post the shot.
She is now four months old and has quite the personality already... so fun to watch develop!
Our nanny, Melody started this week and we absolutely love her - so does Mailee! :)

Mom H's bday weekend

2009-03-16T07:36:00.000-07:00

We enjoyed a splendid weekend with the family to celebrate Mom's birthday! Jay, Deanne and the boys drove up from Seattle and of course Mom and Dad stayed the weekend too.
Mailee was excited to go to another birthday party!

Mailee's First Play Date

2009-03-16T07:29:00.000-07:00

Mailee's friend Georgia (and mommy's friend, Jen) hosted a play group a couple of weeks ago. Georgia, Audrianna and Mailee enjoyed getting to actually meet each other since all the other times have been in their strollers while their mommy's went walking or in car seats while their mommy's met at a restaurant.
We look forward to our weekly planned play dates.

Happy Birthday Mom

2009-03-12T06:54:00.000-07:00

We can't wait to celebrate together this weekend - ALL of us :) We love you!

Happy Birthday Sallie!

2009-03-09T07:01:00.000-07:00

Wishing you love from miles away!

A video for Grandma & Grandpa R

2009-03-02T14:33:00.000-08:00

Not the best video of her talking.. but hey, it's something... she is getting better at performing for the camera.

We've got a smile!

2009-03-02T14:25:00.000-08:00

Finally... Mailee didn't get her "serious" face in front of the camera. Here is proof that she isn't the grinch's daughter.

Here are a couple other cute pics I took of her.

Mailee's first trip to the zoo!

2009-02-27T16:11:00.000-08:00

Deanne had a great idea to meet up at the Woodland Park Zoo before her birthday dinner. Although it was a little cold we enjoyed a couple of hours visiting the animals. Certainly a great way to avoid the crowds is to go the day after a little of snow falls here in Washington.

Happy Birthday Deanne!!

2009-02-27T16:08:00.000-08:00

It was so wonderful to be able to celebrate with the entire family this year!
We love you!

Mailee loves her daddy

2009-02-23T11:58:00.001-08:00

John is such a good daddy! It makes me so happy to watch him and Mailee together.
Over the weekend I snapped a few pictures of them during storytime and naptime. And then some of Mailee in the cute outfit that daddy got her dressed in before going to dinner.

A big milestone - The flip!

2009-02-22T15:11:00.000-08:00

Today Mailee is 3 months, 1 week and 3 days old and she hit another milestone.
OK... so I'm trying not to call it rolling over b/c it reminds me of the days when i was trying to train Sahara to roll over for a treat - HA! But wanted to be sure to record this milestone ASAP as Mailee flipped from her stomach to her back twice today!!! :)
It was really exciting but I haven't gotten it on video... by the time I pulled the camera out she was over it and was like "yah, been there done that mom"... oh well, one day I get a smile, coo or flip on camera for grandma and grandpa R. Guess you will just have to come visit to see her athletic skills in person. Miss you guys!

Trip to Whistler

2009-02-17T12:44:00.000-08:00

Well... my maternity leave is quickly coming to and end and John had a 3 day weekend... so we decided we better take advantage of this rare opportunity by planning a getaway to Whistler, Canada. We had a blast! Jay and Deanne came as well (but decided to leave the boys w/ mimi and papa). Mailee loved spending time w/ her auntie and uncle but missed her cousins.
John, Jay and Deanne went boarding when Mailee and Mommy went shopping in the village. Then one day Mommy and Daddy took Mailee for a snowshoeing adventure! What fun! We hope to make this an annual President's Day trip!

Happy Valentine's Day

2009-02-17T12:37:00.000-08:00

Mailee wants her family and friends to know that she loves them very much and wishes she could spend more time with them. (so does her mommy)
Grandma R sent Mailee a Valentine's Day outfit that she is modeling in these pictures. Thanks Grandma!

Three Months!

2009-02-17T12:24:00.000-08:00

Our little pumpkin is 3 months old now and I can hardly believe it! Time has flown by and we have already experienced so much joy with our precious daughter. Everyone says it gets even more fun the older they get... and I can't imagine! We are surely in for some fun then! Mailee got to spend some time w/ Mimi on her 3 month bday b/c Mommy had to go to the dentist. She told me she loves her grandma even though she cried... she just REALLY wants to be with mommy all the time. (she says it is just a phase she is going through though and will want to be cuddled and loved by everyone again soon!!) Here are some pictures of Mailee on her 3 month bday.

Mailee and her "other" doggie

2009-02-10T16:10:00.000-08:00

Of course Mailee loves Sahara... but she also loves her other doggie that Sallie gave her! She has been exploring all sorts of things w/ her hands lately and this cuddly pup is one of her favs.

Happy Birthday Kerry!!

2009-02-10T10:47:00.000-08:00

Thinking of you today and hoping that you are enjoying your bday! It's fascinating how quickly the years have flown by and how long we have been friends.... since middle school when I admired your puzzle shoes :) Love you!!

New pictures for Grandma & Grandpa R

2009-02-05T10:18:00.000-08:00

Mailee wanted me to send you these pictures of her playing and bundled up!

Mom on TV!!!

2009-02-05T10:08:00.000-08:00

Wow...who's that movie star?... OK, not quite a movie star, but Mom made her debut on national news standing next to the first lady! All b/c her office voted her best dressed... if only I could take care of myself like she does... I'm in a sweatshirt, jeans and slippers... but comfy as hell!! :)

Happy Birthday Heather!

2009-02-02T10:38:00.000-08:00

I know you are enjoying your birthday with your new little bundle of joy! Love you!

Happy Tet (Vietnamese New Year)

2009-01-28T10:28:00.000-08:00

Grandma R wanted to make sure that Mailee was dressed appropriately to ring in the Vietnamese New Year that started January 26th. Mailee has celebrated the year of the Ox so far by having lots of play time.... she loves her activity mat, her swing, hanging w/Sahara and going for walks (even though she throws a fit when she first gets put in her car seat). She has also started to sit up in her bumbo seat.

Welcome Fletcher William Condon!!

2009-01-27T12:15:00.000-08:00

Heather had her THIRD baby today... her 2nd baby boy! He came without her having to be induced and she only pushed for 8 minutes! I told her she needs to have children for a living! HA HA. Fletcher was a big boy... 8 lbs 12 oz and 21 inches long... can't wait to hold him.

More pictures of Mailee

2009-01-20T13:33:00.003-08:00

Mailee is 2 months old!

2009-01-15T14:49:00.000-08:00

Wow...time is sure flying by... our little pumpkin is over two months old now! Every day since the day she was born has been wonderful and special. I wake up every morning anxious to see what the day will bring, as Mailee is such a joy to watch. I can't imagine my world without her in it now. Earlier this week we had her 2 month appointment and the doctor said that she was healthy and that we were very lucky parents to have a baby girl like her (who sleeps though the night allowing mommy and daddy to rest as well). She is a bit small (9 1bs 12 oz and 22 inches long) but hey.. I guess John and I aren't the biggest people either, so what do you expect? Doc says she is only in the 20th and 30th percentile... but she is healthy. :) Here is some video of her playing (I know grandma and grandpa R and auntie liz love to see this stuff) She is also smiling and cooing a lot... but I never have the camera near by when she is hamming it up. She is extra happy in the mornings...so I'll plan to catch a grin on camera soon.

Happy Birthday Carrie & Meredith!

2009-01-14T11:33:00.000-08:00

A Birthday shout out to Carrie & Meredith as they celebrate their 33rd year! Love you guys!

Mailee meets her BFF Gracie

2009-01-13T21:40:00.001-08:00

We headed to Virginia Beach to visit Kitty, Jeff and Gracie...Mailee dressed appropriately in her animal print! We had a great night with the Harpers - just like old times.... a little too much fun and a little too much wine... HA!
We miss you guys and love little Gracie!

Mailee meets all of our friends

2009-01-13T21:32:00.000-08:00

Going home for the holidays gave us a chance to introduce our little pumpkin to so many of our close friends. She experienced our fav restaurant Rio Grande while we dined with the guys and even got to watch the bowl game with them too.
Grandma R opened up her house for a sip and see as well where she met all the girls.

Christmas 2008

2009-01-13T20:05:00.000-08:00

Mailee's first Christmas was so much fun! We decided to brave a cross country plane ride with a 6 week old and it was all worth it.

Mailee's First Snow Days

2008-12-19T16:54:00.000-08:00

This past week we've been hit with a couple of snow storms! It is so beautiful... a true winter wonderland around here. They are calling for even more snow this weekend, so we are crossing our fingers it won't cause problems for our trip home for Christmas!
We've been staying warm in the house, but couldn't resist braving the cold to snap a couple of quick pictures with Mailee surrounded by the gorgeous white snow.

Christmas Card photos with Mailee's first tree

2008-12-13T12:38:00.001-08:00

Last weekend John, Mailee and I went and got Mailee's first Christmas tree.
John and I laughed as it was the quickest decision we've ever made in picking out a tree... We had gone to Washington park to enjoy a pretty day and a walk with Mailee prior to going to get our tree... well, by the time we got there Mailee was hungry so we took the first tree they showed us. :) John laughed and made a comment that having a baby doesn't STOP you from doing things you used to do... it just CHANGES the way you go about doing those things!
Once home, we listened to Christmas music, argued about the tree being straight (John is a perfectionist) and then decorated... the next night was interesting trying to get a family shot in front of the tree.. didn't get a perfect one, but at least we got one!

Baby photo shoot

2008-12-10T21:59:00.000-08:00

Here are some cute pictures I've taken of our little pumpkin recently.

Thankful for Mailee & a Loving Family!

2008-12-10T21:45:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving was extra special this year as we are so thankful for a little girl!
We were also very thankful for our wonderful family. Mailee felt very loved because she had so many visitors to celebrate the holiday with... Grandma and Grandpa R came from Virginia, Aunt Liz, Uncle Fred and cousin Liam came from Washington, D.C, Fred's parents came from PA and of course the Hilburn side of the family (Mimi, Papa, Jay, Deanne, Austin, Jack and honorary g-ma Louise (D's mom) joined too! The dinner was delicious and the company was the best!

A few days after Thanksgiving, Mailee got to meet her great grandma (my mom's mom)... so cool to have 4 generations together!

Mailee's first week at home

2008-11-24T17:24:00.000-08:00

This week John and I have been adjusting to parenthood.... it has been wonderful, as well as trying... Our pumpkin seems so perfect everyday until the witching hour begins every night right when we are ready for some shut eye and turn the lights out ~ she decides she is ready to keep us up! Once we get through the 1 to 2 hour calming period all is perfect again... she sleeps well waking us up only once in the middle of the night.

Here are a few shots of her.. first bath, cuddle time w/ daddy etc. etc.

And a lot of you have asked if her hair is blonde... I think is some of the pictures it looks blonde, but it is light brown... although the dr. keeps saying she is a toe-head which is a blondie... so maybe i'm wrong. ;)