Documenting the Lutz Family Life

Typical Night at Home

2012-01-29T19:57:00.001-05:00

Trying New Stuff

2012-01-12T10:00:00.002-05:00

Mr. Tough Stuff

2012-01-09T12:29:00.001-05:00

I suspected he would get hurt on the skateboard at some point, but I never guessed it would be while another kid held it in his arms...

"No running, and everybody shares!" I said as I left the house. Then the babysitters called about 30 minutes later. "Ben has a cut over his eye." Guess who was running?

Fabulous Friday

2012-01-06T12:49:00.001-05:00

The joy and privilege of being home with my boys is not lost on me today!

The Lyrical Miracle Strikes Again

2012-01-02T11:04:00.002-05:00

Jason used to refer to himself as the Lyrical Miracle. He likes to write poems and songs. Silly ones. So we employed his skills for a New Year's Eve variety show at our church. I even got in on the action and put pen to paper, too. Be aware that this video is posted primarily for my dad, who loves a good homemade lyric, and for a few church members who got kicks out of seeing fellow congregants made fun of. I can't think why anyone else would sit through 11 minutes of this, unless they're waiting for their fingernails to dry and can't touch the mouse to make it stop.

1) Ode to Don O. (Help!)
2) Ode to a Very Special Sunday School Class (Let It Be)
3) Ode to a Serendipitously Named Couple (Yesterday)
4) Ode to a Celebrity Look-alike (I Want to Hold Your Hand)
5) Ode to the Sunday School Guys (Hey Jude)

Coming Home

2011-12-24T10:44:00.001-05:00

Gotta give thanks to God for the blessing of 3 amazing flights with Nate. He has slept through them almost entirely, including an 8 hour flight from Honolulu to Chicago. I'm sipping a gingerbread latte in O'Hare International, because I didn't really sleep. Not complaining, though! I've prayed quite often about these flights with our little guy and God has been generous in his answer, so I'm happy to focus on getting home to see my other babies!!! I hope Linda has dressed them in protective suits, because I'm going to squeeze them pretty good.

Pearl Harbor

2011-12-23T20:05:00.001-05:00

By the time we arrived mid-morning, they had cancelled boat trips out to see the USS Arizona memorial. We aren't sure why. We did get to walk around the grounds, read a lot of informational plaques, and have Rachel tell a short version of the story of December 7, 1941. She did a great job putting the geography and history together for us. We couldn't help but think of Grady Elliot, the husband of Jason's distant cousin, who was a survivor on the USS West Virginia. Trying to imagine such a horrific event in such a beautiful place is sombering.

Honolulu Beach

2011-12-21T20:55:00.001-05:00

I can't quite see how good this picture may or may not be, because I'm still basking in the sun of Honolulu Beach. I think I'll go dip these freshly painted piggies in the Pacific!

Macadamia Nut Farm Tour

2011-12-20T22:07:00.001-05:00

Got a little exposure to some traditional Hawaiian culture today at a macadamia nut farm we visited. How to open a coconut ("popo"), names and uses of countless beautiful plants and trees, fire dancing, a few landforms, tons of trivia tidbits... And a starfruit right off the tree. Not bitter at all like the one I had from a grocery store one time.

Pillbox Hike

2011-12-19T16:46:00.001-05:00

We just returned from hiking the mountain behind Rachel's cottage. At the top is an old pillbox from WWII. It took us about 45 minutes to hike it, but I'm sure that's because Jason had Nate strapped to him and absolutely nothing to do with my fear of heights or being out of shape. We were so polite. I stopped and let all the other hikers go past, because that's the aloha way. I didn't need a break to catch my breath or anything. The pillbox at the top is on a ridge, so there are only a few feet to stand on before you'd go sliding down a cliff. I wanted to reenact my favorite scene from Seven Brides for Seven Brothers on the roof of the pillbox, but Jason was nervous and made me get down. Oh, well. Still a great activity for the second morning of our time here.

She Sang a Solo Sweetly in Spite of Strep

2011-12-14T12:30:00.001-05:00

My little shepherd and angel did beautifully Sunday night during the children's program at church. If you think Gabby doesn't look like herself in this picture, it's because she doesn't. Her face is swollen, and she has a fever. A little amoxicillin has taken care of that now, but boy I felt bad for her Sunday night. Even so, she sang "O Come Little Children" like a little pro, and both kids recited their speaking parts without a hitch. Ben even got a big "Awwww!" from the congregation that sounded like a bunch of schoolgirls eyeing a puppy.

This Proud Mom Moment brought to you by the Cartledge Creek Children's Ministry and readers like you.

Jellicle!

2011-12-06T08:09:00.002-05:00

Jellicle: My favorite word of the week. I heard it around 250 times last night, and each time I liked it more. The latest touring production of CATS spent its rehearsal week in Richmond County, so we got to see the very first preview show. Yeah, I know. I still can't believe it, either. We do get some great shows thanks to an incredible facility, but I thought this took it a notch higher. Our seats were amazing, the sound was top-notch, the singing was stellar... I can't give a full review typing on a phone, but I have to mention the dancing. (Is it too late for me to be a dancer? Darn.) The dancing was the most emotional part of the show for me, evoking laughter, empathy, and admiration.

I wonder what T.S. Eliot would say if he saw his jellicle cats on stage like this.

Auntie Rae Rae

2011-11-29T12:00:00.001-05:00

What a blessing it has been to have Rachel
'on the mainland' for the month of November. She adds so much to our days. She even taught me how to blog from my phone as I'm doing right now. (Here's to waaay more posts!) I'd be really upset about taking her to the airport right tonight, but I'm going to be at her house in less than 3 weeks!

Love you so, Chell Bell.

6

2011-11-19T09:55:00.003-05:00

I think other family members have pictures of the day far better than these, but if I don't post something now, I probably won't.

Love you, sweet GabbyGoo!

Halloween '11

2011-11-02T16:15:00.004-05:00

I'll admit that I wasn't pumped up about Halloween this year. I purchased one puny pumpkin for a Fall table decoration, but there was no carving this year. Costumes were last-minute purchases after trying to fulfill Ben's wish of being Jimmie Johnson. No, Lightnin' McQueen. No, Jimmie Johnson. Wait. Lightnin' McQueen.

Anyway, here we are on the way to a Fall Festival at church. The kids are cute, and that's what counts.

Gabby has a new literary hero.

Meet Pinkalicious.Ben was a cowboy. 'Cause I said so. And he liked it. Score.

What he didn't know is that I was imagining him as Dusty Bottoms' replacement.
My little buttercup... The kids hit our old neighborhood with friends from church on Monday night.
Click on this pic so you can see Ben's expression.

Nate also hung out with friends from church.
Nate (8/8), Briley (6/16), and Dylan (8/13)

So now we have enough candy to last til Valentine's, when we'll get a bucket to last us til Easter, where we'll get a bucket to last til June. Next year, I'm passing out rice cakes and celery.

The Bumbo is Back.

2011-10-25T12:55:00.004-05:00

Remember this? This used to be Ben's throne. Before that it was Gabby's, but she didn't much care for it. Her beautiful legs were too chunky to fit in the slots comfortably.

Today, Nate got his first run at Ye Olde Bumbo. Nate seemed to really love sitting up 'on his own,' but that head wasn't quite ready for full-time Bumbo-ing.

Is it me, or do my boys look like twins?

Super Bumblebee

2011-10-19T09:40:00.003-05:00

Way to go, Gab! She was named an "All-Star Bee" for outstanding academic achievement this first 6 weeks of school this morning. I think she received a pencil for perfect attendance, too. Unfortunately, the camera went temporarily missing, but I did catch these with my phone. If you click on them, you might get a larger view.

After this morning, I think we have still have quite a ways to go before L-u-t-z is pronounced "loots" without thought by folks around here.

Hide and go seek @ 2 mos. old

2011-10-10T10:43:00.003-05:00

Dear Nate,

I don't know why you've been hiding your smile from my camera for the last month, but I found a small one this morning. I suppose it doesn't help that my camera batteries won't stay charged. However, I've got the momentum now, and very soon I will capture that grin that takes up half your face. You might as well wave the white flag on this one and wait to challenge me in peekaboo.

Love,
Mom

Nater Taters at 7 weeks minus a day

2011-09-25T14:34:00.002-05:00

Preschooler Ben

2011-09-06T07:39:00.005-05:00

On the way: "I gon' have so much fun."
Just arrived: A little ambivalent.

A few seconds later: Rethinking strategy. "Cheeeeese."

It was harder to take Ben, because he is certainly cautious in new situations. Transitions aren't as easy for him as they are for Gabby, and he isn't automatically trusting of people. Sometimes he's even wary of folks he already knows until he's been in the room a few minutes. He gave us some weird looks as we were closing the door, and he may cry... but I'm pretty sure he'll be okay after a few minutes. I hope he gon' have so much fun.

I got millions of 'em!

2011-08-30T05:28:00.004-05:00

It's pretty awesome to have a comedian living at your house. Free, impromptu performances suit our small entertainment budget. Some of my favorite (describable) Ben funnies from the last few days...

What kind of juice do you want, Ben? "Chicken juice. Hee hee."
Sssssss. Ssss sssssssssss. [He's crawling military-style.] Are you a snake? "Yesss." Do you need some snake food? "Put it on the floor."
Upon finding a box of Cheez-Its, "CHEESE CRACKERS! Wuh-PAM!" (This is his own creation, akin to saying, "Boo-yah!" or "Yeehaw!" Take your pick.)

I wish I could remember more.

Beauty, mate!

2011-08-21T08:27:00.003-05:00

Ben likes the Crocodile Hunter, Steve Irwin. We've watched him a lot lately, and I guess that's why when looking at these pictures this morning, the first phrase that crossed my mind was, "Beauty, mate!"

Many firsts

2011-08-18T14:17:00.004-05:00

Not the first "Can I kiss him?"

First visit from a friend his own age.
Her dad was pleased with her reaction.

First stroll around the block.

First home visit from cousin Jackson.

First photo shoot in green.

First waking up from a photo shoot in green.
I know. Stretching the 'first' thing a little.

Strong enough to push out of this position and flop over my arm for the first time Tuesday.

First bath at home.

Too cute not to post one more.

Our 'gift of God'

2011-08-14T10:02:00.007-05:00

We. Are. Home.

It feels so good to be home with all three of our babies. As we were waiting to check out of the hospital, Jason remarked that this time was so different from the first - With Gabby, he was scared to leave because we were with professionals who knew what they were doing. We didn't. With Nate, he couldn't wait to leave and get settled, I suppose because we feel like we know what we're doing now. Ha! What a funny statement.

I'll have to do more than one post to get caught up to today, but let's do the important stuff:

Welcome, Nathanael Ray Lutz!
August 8, 2011
7 lbs, 10 oz
21 inches

Nathanael is a Hebrew name that means 'gift of God.' And in case you're thinking, "Hmmm... isn't that a biblical name? The guy who wrestled a lion? The guy with the staff? Um, help, please." From the Book of John, Chapter 1:

Jesus Calls Philip and Nathanael

43 The next day Jesus decided to go to Galilee. He found Philip and said to him, "Follow me."44 Now Philip was from Bethsaida, the city of Andrew and Peter.45 Philip found Nathanael and said to him, "We have found him of whom Moses in the Law and also the prophets wrote, Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph."46 Nathanael said to him, "Can anything good come out of Nazareth?" Philip said to him, "Come and see."47 Jesus saw Nathanael coming toward him and said of him, "Behold, an Israelite indeed, in whom there is no deceit!"48 Nathanael said to him, "How do you know me?" Jesus answered him, "Before Philip called you, when you were under the fig tree, I saw you."49 Nathanael answered him, "Rabbi, you are the Son of God! You are the King of Israel!"50 Jesus answered him, "Because I said to you, 'I saw you under the fig tree,' do you believe? You will see greater things than these."51 And he said to him, "Truly, truly, I say to you, you will see heaven opened, and the angels of God ascending and descending on the Son of Man."

"Mom, I am a Princess Detective."

2011-08-06T18:38:00.003-05:00

"Hmmmm..."

The beginning of the story is really good, and it doesn't even start with "It was a dark and stormy night." No, my Princess Detective creates far more mystery from the very first sentence:

Princesses 1 and 2 are meeting me tonight.

Who are Princesses 1 and 2 after all? And where are they meeting her? After the middle and end are finished, we'll publish on the blog. By the way, she's basing the characters of Princess 1 and 2 off of real-life friends, but their names won't be revealed in the story due to privacy issues.

Here we go!

2011-06-15T08:45:00.002-05:00

Nope, I'm not in a Bud Light commercial, but I'm definitely thinking, "Here we go!" There is no party, but there will be craziness. There are no cameras to capture the fun, but there will be a follow-up blog.

A few minutes ago, I sent my two kids off to Grandparent Camp. In other words, they're staying with MawMaw and PawPaw for two days while I try to purge my house of as much as possible. I could use a team of 4 just to carry out buckets and bags and drive them to the dump or the second-hand store. I need to have a yard sale, but the timing isn't going to work out in the next two weeks.

Why? Because yesterday was my first day as a work-at-home mom. Because I'm going to be spending a lot more time in these walls. Because Jason and the kids deserve it. Because living with this much junk and clutter isn't healthy, nor do I think it's pleasing to the Lord.

Here we go!

Relay for Life

2011-05-14T10:57:00.014-05:00

I love Relay for Life in Richmond County. It's one of those few times when you can really see this community in action. One of my favorite parts is seeing the purple shirts that stand out among the crowd, because the person who is wearing it is a cancer conqueror or someone who's surviving with cancer. Last night, my friend Wanda was wearing her purple shirt, and I was almost stunned to remember that it was less than a year ago when she was diagnosed. I can't help but think of others who would be wearing purple shirts if they were there - like my Uncle Scott, whose battle (and victory!) against oral cancer makes those survivalist tv guys look like they were filming at a 5-star resort.

My kids love Relay for Life, too. Face painting, gigantor bouncy slide, food, light-up jewelry, and hundreds of people outdoors? That might be their perfect Friday night.

Dia de las Madres

2011-05-08T15:58:00.004-05:00

I love all three of these kids.

Resurrecting the Blog

2011-04-26T23:08:00.005-05:00

Today, we bought a new computer, and so I return to the world of blogging. Everything is so much faster now that blogging doesn't seem like a chore anymore! Let me take this opportunity to say, too, that we are very grateful to have had Rachel's college-era Gateway for the last 3 or 4(?) years. Thanks, Rach! Perhaps tomorrow I'll unearth my point-and-shoot and come up with some great pictures. Heck, I'll even pitch in some decent stories when I'm not writing after midnight. In the meantime, here's a video of my future PGA touring pro. One day he'll be able to afford clubs that don't need masking tape to join the shaft and the head of the club. It'll be great.

Ode to Aunt Natalie

2011-01-12T14:47:00.003-05:00

Shocking Christmas tree ornaments... Oh, my!

2011-01-10T13:55:00.003-05:00

Practice makes perfect?

2010-11-27T14:55:00.002-05:00

flumingo flumingo

2010-09-10T22:01:00.003-05:00

Dance, baby, dance!

2010-08-11T10:54:00.002-05:00

Things I Thought I Wouldn't Do

2010-05-01T21:13:00.018-05:00

#1 - I didn't think I'd let it go 6 months between blog entries.
6 months, minus 2 days. Same difference. Let's just pick up with today.

#2 - I didn't think I'd subconsciously pick out matching outfits for my kids.

Oh, well. I'm not ashamed. Brown prints equally good on them.

#3 - I didn't think I'd get my husband to eat a veggie burger.

Maybe it's because it said 'Asian'.

#4 - I didn't think I'd use one of these any time soon.

I played for a wedding today, and I fixed my hair. I hear your snickers.

#5 - I didn't think I had the knack for using this.
I still don't think God gave me that natural ability to whip out whatever I dream up, but I have found that I have the desire. So, I invested in this fabulous machine that might make up for some of my unfabulousness. Already on the to-do list? Quilt, aprons, skirts, and gifts that I will not disclose in case you are the future recipient. I was supposed to go to the fabric store (a minimum of an hour and fifteen to get to one) after the wedding today. It closes at 6 on Saturdays. ???!!!!

#6 - I didn't think I'd ever be able to do this.

This is what I did to cheer myself up when the fabric store trip got cancelled. I hate how my hands dry up when they're covered with dirt. Hate it. When my neighbor brought me a beautiful potted plant a few years ago, I killed it. I've even killed ivy that lived indoors. Just picking out plants for a container garden (is that what they're called?) makes me so nervous that I was sure the Lowe's employees were taking bets on who would have to catch me when I passed out. (Exaggeration is good for the soul?) I'm gardenically challenged, despite having parents and in-laws with green thumbs. So, here's to doing things you thought you couldn'twouldn'tshouldn't do! Heck, I was so inspired, I even planted some basil seeds in a broken coffee cup. Coffee flavored basil. Hmmm... I hadn't thought of that 'til just now.

Caption Contest

2009-11-03T20:21:00.010-05:00

Here are the promised pictures, Linda Hull. I threw in a few funny shots from last night's sibling show. The last picture begs for a good caption, so I posted it below in case you want a better look at it. Post your ideas in the comments/musings section.

Another poem

2009-10-24T09:18:00.006-05:00

Dear Rachel Lindsey Wells,

Just a little note on October twenty-fourth

From your sister in the South who still lives to your north

Youu don't need me to enjoy celebrating your day

But I still wish I was nearby to give a hug and say:

YOU'RE GETTING OLD!

Welcome to The Land of Closer to Thirty Than Twenty. While living here, you'll often be snobbed on survey boxes. Not in the 18-25 category anymore, sister. Get your own box. On the plus side of this estate is the clarity of whether or not you should buy _______. Does it look like a 15 year-old would wear it to a birthday party? It's not for you. You're too mature for that now.

No, seriously. I'm so proud of who you are at 26. Closer to thirty than twenty means more stories to share, and a little less identity crisis. (Not that you've really struggled with that much in the first place. LA.)

You are awesome, and I posted it on my blog for the whole world to know! So this is like my card in the mail, and as for a gift, I shot you some pictures this morning of the leaves changing. You can't get that in Hawaii! Also, the fam got you a windsurfing lesson. You can get that in Hawaii. Go down to Kailua Sailboards and Kayak and check stuff out. I'm not sure if Dad paid for that specifically or left it open for you to spend the money how you wish.

Rites of Passage: split lips, flu

2009-10-21T19:43:00.023-05:00

Ode to Benjamin

You've reached the mark of three-quarters a year

When you wobble near tables, I'm still in fear

I'd could do without any more split chins

But "walk it off" says your dad; It's just your skin

So continue practicing your balancing game

It could bring you skills on the court, or a part in FAME

This clip proves you're already an entertainer

You're a cutie pie, and that couldn't be plainer

----------------------------
What kind of spider is this?! I have now killed two in my home. One at each end of the house. And that freaks me out.

-------------------------------

The Gabster has been sick. Flu sick. Maybe H1N1 sick? We didn't get the bloodwork run to find out, but it's likely, according to my nurse friend. She stopped running a fever for a day and a half, and then this afternoon it started up again. Argh. This paper with star stickers was begun on Sunday night to encourage compliance with my drug policy: I deal it, you down it. And hurry up about it, because there is purple stuff dripping on my leg.

Ben stayed at Linda and Roger's [THANKS AGAIN!] for a few days, 'cause ya gotta keep 'em separated [insert distorted guitar here]. I brought him home today to discover that she was very much still sick. Very frustrating. Also very frustrating to discover in the same day that Ben knows how to use a sippy cup. Even if it's pink and belongs to his sick sister, he's happy to drink from it. Such sharing, caring kids.

It's nice to live in a small town during times like this. Our doctor has treated my parents, my sisters, me, Jason, and now Gabby. So, he knows us. Our pharmacist is the kind that they try to portray on commercials. He remembers that Jason has to preach on Sunday and should probably take it easy on the high-powered cough medicine. His wife (the other pharmacist) says, "Loved that picture of you guys in the paper." That picture ran two months ago, and she still remembers. At least five church friends called to check on Gabby and ask if they could do anything for us. Well, that's not so much smalltown benefit as it is good to have a church family.

Also good to have are old friends. Got to see Erin Hall and her two beautiful babies! And may I say that she is the most sane person I've ever seen at week 3 with baby #2. Very impressive.

Random bits

2009-10-01T20:24:00.005-05:00

Deedah and Gabby at the Neptune Festival in Virginia Beach.

Gabby and cousin Jackson. Triple awwwwww....

I just thought this was cool. I looked out my kitchen window while cleaning a bottle, and

J. Lance Lutz (Jason) and Don LeMond ("Mr. Don" to Gabby) after the Tour de Moore...

50 miles in less than 3 hours!

This is from my perspective at Plaza Jam tonight. The Fantastic Shakers lived up to their name, and Gabby may be able to join them one day. The boy she's playing with is her new friend Jonny. Extra points to him for the Super Mario Bros. tshirt.

Little Man is a mobile creature.

2009-09-11T16:56:00.006-05:00

This may be the last week of stationary baby Ben. He's beginning crawling, and next week, I expect him to be flying between rooms. So that means stuff that used to be too far away for him to get his little paws on is now fair game. Also on our watch... end tables, cofee tables, couches, and well, anything below 4 feet. See the next video for evidence.

Summer's Sad Sayonara

2009-08-17T21:35:00.007-05:00

This is my sixth beginning to a new school year. I love newness. New ideas, new stuff (school supplies aisle, Mom?! Hello!), new kids, new spaces, new beginnings. It's awesome. It's like New Year's Resolutions dialed up. Five times in a row, I've been thrilled about it. But this year...

Summer was like it should be.

We had a real vacation. Thanks, Mom and Dad!
I played with my babies and have the dusty furniture to prove it.
Jason and I got to eat lunch together more than Saturday.
I taught 4 & 5 year olds at VBS and ... enjoyed it. (Surprised myself.)
Gabby swam with hot pink floaties.
Ben popped two teeth through.
We slept in and stayed up late.
We played games. That's why we stayed up so late.
I learned how to sew a teensy bit.
Jason accomplished some riding milestones. Like the 50 mile one, and the I'm-not-scared-to-cycle-with-my-sister one.
Ben learned how to sit up mostly.
Jason and I hiked with my dad, and Gab/Ben/myself had a picnic lunch at Morrow Mountain with Roger/Linda.
I recorded a song.
Gabby proved that she gets veiled jabs, would probably make a great policewoman, and is extremely tenderhearted. You wouldn't think those last two would go together... "Ohhhh, I'm sorry you're upset. It's okay. Go ahead and finish beating that guy up, and then I'll arrest you."
Jason got voted in as Pastor, though that has nothing to do with the whole "Isn't Summer fun?" theme. We've been having fun calling him "Pastor Lutz" because it's suh-OH much more formal than he is. Makes him shrink about 3 inches.
Ben said "Mama" and is still saying it. Only when he's mad, though.
I ran a mile (without stopping to walk) for the first time ever and then proceeded to run some more! Hmmmm... gotta get back on that.
I had my first EKG, and it turns out that I'm acceptably abnormal. I guess that doesn't fit in the Summer Fun category, either.
Gabby spent two nights with MawMaw and PawPaw.
Saw some friends here and there, though there can always be lots more of that for my taste.
My toenails are still red.

Even without the TV for half the summer, it was fabulous. And as to that little experiment, we haven't missed the TV a bit. That may change now that sports are gearing back up, but the only time I've regretted not having any cable was on the fourth of July. We couldn't take Gab to see fireworks, and I wanted to turn on PBS and show her Boston. (Best 4th ever in Boston, by the way.)

This year, I've not been pumped up to go back to school, because Summer was so great. (It doesn't help that my first day back was spent learning how to use a new math textbook. I teach music, ahem.) I love all the time to hang with my kiddos, and I'm not apologizing for that. So what if Ben turned into a mama's boy and really can't be consoled by anyone else if I'm near? I hear you with your "You must be spoiling him." You're just jealous.

*Pictures and video to follow once I buy some new batteries. I charged them, but it turns out they're past recharging.

Goodbye, June. Hellooooo, July!

2009-07-01T13:07:00.013-05:00

My sister tried to give me the ol' "don't you need to update your blog?" the other day. It didn't work, because another week passed before I was ready to blog. What can I say? I like reading her blog better. Check out her adventures here. No pictures of redheads, but pretty good scenery anyway.

Memorable moments from June: Jason and Gabby's cheeks disappearing under their grins when she gave him this picture in a Gabby-hand-painted frame for Fathers' Day. Jason grinning like that again when he got home from youth camp and saw us. Ben laughing so hard he could barely breathe because Gabby was "doing ballet." Gabby screaming, "I'm gonna do my best job everrrr!" as she's doggie paddling in a lake with swimmies and a pool noodle under her arms.

...aaaaand, we're back! This computer likes to reboot itself whenever it feels like it. Thank goodness blogger autosaves. Well, I'm not much in the mood for being retrospective anymore. Here are a few things on our collective plate.

1) I'm not sure if it was the money-saving potential added to the quality-of-life potential or the QoL added to the $. But somewhere, those two reasons got mixed together and we have decided (pregnant pause) to turn off (deep breath) our cable. Not downgrade. Cut completely. Go ahead. Laugh. I don't care if you're laughing because you think TV is such a non-issue you can't believe I'd blog about it or if you're laughing because you think we must have been drinking when we made this decision.

It's definitely a big deal for us. The TV is on at our house a lot. Like right now, I'm [not] watching Wimbledon. Andy Murray just beat Ferrero. For me, TV is something of an addicting presence, and it's a bit numbing. It feels weird when it's not on, and that's not good. I imagine there are lots of families who live like this. It would probably be best if I could just develop the discipline to turn it on and off when appropriate, but I'm trying to develop discipline in so many areas that this is not the battle I pick. I'm excited about living more simply, more purposefully. No TV will pretty much force me to do that. I'm very excited about the affects it could have on the kiddos and my parenting. (However, I'm allowing for one video a day, so it's not like we're putting the TV in the attic.) It really comes down to that passage in 1 Corinthians... Everything is permissible, but not everything is beneficial. Nothing will be my master. (My paraphrase.) I love days where we do stuff. Now we'll have a lot more of them.

2) VACATION! Days where we do stuff, and days where we don't. Yay. (And family!!!)

3) Tea parties. Our family attends a tea party every day, hosted by Gabrielle. She makes marvelous stews and "blended tea." Yesterday's stew was so good, and I complimented the seasoning. Just the right amount of salt and pepper, I said. "Yes, welllllll... It called for 3 ounces, but I only put in 2." Food Network is one of my favorite channels, and now you're starting to see that we really should turn off the TV.

I leave you with a few more pictures. Jason is definitely mocking Gabby's pouty face. She was a little jealous of the Father/Son photo shoot.

Memorial Day Weekend

2009-05-25T20:16:00.013-05:00

Our weekend in a slideshow nutshell...

A few things were missed by the camera... Chic-fil-A (YES - worth mentioning. Yum.) Paint your own pottery place. Kids having a virus. Decent dinner for Jennifer, but I forgot the bread again. However, this time I didn't burn it. I just forgot to cook it. "Antique" shop where I found two board games that I played at least once a week as a kid. I didn't think your ten year HS reunion signaled that you were old.

Something that was not missed by the camera... Ben's first taste of food with flavor. He's been on rice cereal for three weeks, but today we tried green beans. I've been secretly excited about this for at least four days.

Some recent favorites...

Mrs. Tracy (beloved preschool teacher) asked Gabby if her mommy spells her name L-A-U-R-E-N. "Noooo... she spells it M-O-M-M-Y."
Nighttime prayers. Gabby keeps remembering people to pray for after they've "Amen"ed. Jason explains that she can pray even when he's not around. They goodnight each other and through the closed door he hears, "Thank you, God, for Mark and Sandy."
Eating ice cream outside near a train depot. After a train passes by, "Momma, that was one big honkin' train, now." Complete with grown-man Southern stilted rhythm.
On Saturday morning, Gabby's breakfast smelled gorgeous. Then Monday afternoon, Jason smelled beautiful.
Did you know that Gabby's fish died? And that they're still died?

Birthday Boy and Bumbo Ben

2009-04-30T19:59:00.007-05:00

April 27th, 2009: OPERATION REDBIKE is underway. My mission... Surprise the pants off a man on his 33rd birthday... and reclothe him in spandex.

9:03 AM... Mother of the subject enters the subject's home.

9:04 AM... Secret Agent arrives and announce, "Get your clothes on! I'm ready for our date!" (Note: Subject was clothed at the time.)

9:45 AM... Subject sips on iced chai tea in Aberdeen, NC.

9:55 AM... Subject is grinning and trying not to wonder aloud.

10:47 AM... Subject peruses books and CDs in Sanford, NC.

11:40 AM... Subject finds himself trying not to freak out as Secret Agent parallel parks the vehicle on Franklin Street (Chapel Hill, NC.)

Noon... Subject and secret agent share chicken kabob, hummus, and undisclosed foods at Mediterranean Deli.

12:50...

Okay, I have to work at being clever, and I'm too tired to work, so let me just give the rest to you in prose. I pull into a parking space and tell Jason that we're here in Chapel Hill to go to the bike shop. "What for?" he asks as we're walking in. "Just look around," says me. "Look around?!" says he. And then--- the best part! Mr. Bike Shop Man approaches and asks the inevitable. "Can I help you?" YES, YOU CAN, MISTER! I am about to jump out of my skin, because Jason truly has no idea how many people are a part of this and how excited he's about to be.

"We're here to look at entry level road bikes," says me.

"We are?!" says he.

"Happy birthday!" shrieks me.

--------- says he. (Nothing. Nothing. Just following Mr. Bike Shop Man around like a puppy, probably trying not to act goofy.)

This is what he looked like when he got home.

And this is what he looked like today, when he finally got to take his first ride on the new bike. Linda, did you ever consider any other names for your little baby boy? Like, Lance, maybe?

Thanks again to everybody who contributed. I wish you'd all been there to see Jason walking out of the store repeating over and over, "I got a bike!"

Ben's growing up, too. Here he is in the Bumbo for the first time today. Big Boy Ben in the Bumbo!

And of course, somebody just couldn't miss a photo op.

The Sweet Stuff of Parenting

2009-04-12T13:53:00.008-05:00

My sweet boy smiles all the time, and has even laughed a little bit. Baby grins and giggles are a drug, and I'm an addict - doing any foolish thing I can to get just a little more!

Here's Gab right before she heads out to help her old man in the yard. The hat and accessory (walkie-talkie? turbo-boost button? zapper?) were her choices.

Smarty gets her workout and her healthy foods in all at once.

And this is what my kids are doing right now - one's in my lap with a paci (now nodding off) and the other is snoozing (in her bed, though.)

And finally... Can you tell who's who?

We'll let you guess via the comments button, and then check back for the big reveal.

Stickers

2009-03-28T09:23:00.003-05:00

"Daddy, I'm giving you this star sticker because you're a rock star when you sing at church."

After some stifled laughs by both Jason and myself, I managed to ask where she learned the phrase 'rock star.'

"It's just a particular word you say when a guy is on stage."

I find that particularly entertaining.

'Nuff Said.

2009-03-18T20:24:00.000-05:00

Since Valentine's Day

2009-02-26T08:32:00.004-05:00

Here are a few shots of our sweet kiddos on Valentine's Day.

On Valentine's Day, Jason brought me a very large Hershey's Special Dark. Yum. Then he made a special steak dinner for Gabby and me. Also yum.

The next morning, Jason got very sick. Not yum. Then the next day, I got very sick. Definitely not yum.

Then the next day (Tuesday, 2/17 - for those who are counting) Jason was in great pain. The doctor diagnosed him with dumping. Stop. Not what you think. The virus put his stomach into overdrive and dumped lots of acid into his intestines. He was given meds and started to feel better, but never quite got comfortable. Then Wednesday, he's still hurting. By Thursday, he was really hurting and running a fever of 103. By noon, we were in for bloodwork and C/T scans. Around 3, we get the call to come back to the hospital for surgery. By 6, Jason is having holes punched into his belly. And that was a very good thing, because the appendix had ruptured.

Jason is recovering remarkably well. He can't lift much of anything for another week, and he's tired. Big whoop. We are so glad he's okay and not in pain!

Tons of people have helped us out and prayed for Jason. So, I have a lot of thank yous to get out -- and I won't do it here like I'm some Oscar winner who refuses to heed the cue card that says "Shut up now." I'm making the rounds, and in another year, I should have properly thanked folks for all the blessings.

Lately

2009-02-11T11:51:00.002-05:00

With my cup of coffee, I am recovering from last night. Gabby threw up, Ben woke up for an extra feeding than normal, and I didn't get in the bed until near midnight anyway. Jason and I think Gabby might be allergic to fish. She threw up one time when we had tuna, and we ate salmon last night. I gave her the thinnest piece since it would be the most thoroughly cooked, and mine was cooked through as the thickest piece, soooo... it wasn't undercooked.

Two Saturdays ago, we were watching Lawrence Welk, as we usually do if we're home. They sang "God Bless America," and when they got to 'my home sweet home' Gabby pipes up - "Momma, that's like Rocky Top! That's the same song! The part 'sweet home' - that's the same song!" All my TN relatives are doing happy dances in their computer chairs.

A few days later, Gabby comes home from daycare and we are going through the "What did you do today?" routine, which includes "Did you play any games?" And here it is, folks... the day that I knew I had a kid, and not a toddler: "Ummm, no. My friends were playing their DSes, but they didn't let me play." ???! DS. As in Nintendo DS. Like, a Gameboy. She continued, "Brycen has a DS, and Summer has a DS, and Doodlebug has a DS because of her father." And furthermore, "It has buttons you push if you want to do something."

I love it when she stuns me! (Except if it's bad, like "I hit him back, because Mrs. Suzie tells me to.") It's a little scary that we aren't the only ones pouring things into her little head, but it's also really cool to see the person she is becoming.

On that transformation note, it is soooo nice to be figuring Ben out. As I put it to one friend, he fights sleep like a heavyweight champ. And I know how to help him go to sleep now! "YES!" says me. But during the day, I try to let him figure it out on his own. "NO!" screams Ben. And he likes to say that repetitively, for a good hour usually. Bless his heart. He'll probably scrape up his vocal chords and have that Rod Stewart/Bryan Adams kind of raspy-thing going. Girls like that, so he'll thank me one day for letting him cry this long.

Haha. Jason hates Rod Stewart and Bryan Adams.

The Curious Case of Benjamin Lutz

2009-02-03T16:27:00.004-05:00

A picture's worth a thousand words, but a video's worth more than the sum of its thousand pictures. Hopefully this will give you a better sense of Benjamin than a series of pictures could. This is not what most of my day is like, but I picked out the best part for you. Awwwww....

2009-02-02T15:05:00.004-05:00

It snowed here, like a lot of other places. Thankfully, we didn't get the ice problems, and it warmed up pretty quickly. I know two people who had a pretty good time playing in the snow until one of them developed pre-frostbite hands. The other one got in trouble for not considering the length of time they'd been out playing with cotton gloves on. But, all is forgiven now.

So, Gabby was not right about the Cardinals. (See post below.) I tried to figure out what went wrong. Maybe our addition of little Ben tipped the scales to Big Ben's favor. After all, Ben Lutz wasn't here when either team last played. Or, maybe I just misjudged my daughter's spiritual gift and she won't be a prophetess. Sorry to get your hopes up.

I know that 92% of the readers of this blog are most interested in the kids, what they're like, and how we're all adjusting to each other. But my life right now is pretty monotonous, and so I've had a hard time figuring out which details are actually interesting. Every time I start to type something, it seems pretty dull. Like, "Ben's right tear duct is blocked, but the ointment the doctor prescribed seems to be helping." Blech. I need help. Send your mouse to that little "musings" word below and give me some questions to answer. In the meantime, here are some more pictures from the first couple of days of Ben's life, and I'll work on getting something more recent posted next time.

Predictions

2009-02-01T18:15:00.002-05:00

It's 6:15 PM ET, Sunday, February 1st. Before this game starts, I need to make it public that my daughter has been picking out the Cardinals since at least October. Based on her unexpected, continued fanhood and their unexpected, continued winning, I'm pulling for Arizona tonight.

Okay, Faith Hill just finished singing "America." We're getting close!

Welcome to our world...

2009-01-16T13:47:00.007-05:00

Benjamin Wayne Lutz

January 15th, 2009

7:04 PM

7 lbs, 11 oz

20 1/2"

Oh, we are so happy to have him here. This was taken about an hour after Benjamin was born. It was past Gabby's bedtime, which explains the look on her face.

Day Two...

This picture could be foreshadowing of some moment sixteen or seventeen years from now...

J: And you're an hour late because...

B: Ummmm....

I started this post the day after Ben was born and have come back to it at least three times. I wonder why it took so long to finish? Much more to come.

Sunday, Sunday, Sunday

2009-01-11T21:32:00.008-05:00

I did not go into labor last night. Instead, here I am a few minutes ago with my still-large belly. Jason actually had the nerve to announce to the church this morning that I had not had the baby yet -- right after I'd walked in front of everybody. Goofball.

I'm not sure how well this shows the size of my belly or not... But I thought I couldn't risk any confusion with this round of documentation, so I went with one polka-dot covered and one a little more revealing.

I think it still looks a little smaller than it looks in person.

The calico beans won rave reviews at lunch. Gabby gave it the ol' Campbell's "Mmmm mmm mmm!" The zucchini gratin was pretty durn good, too. Libby, you can find the recipe on foodnetwork.com - It came from the Neelys.

So, we had a great day. Everybody got naps, we ate well, church was encouraging, Gabby confirmed her fanhood for the Arizona Cardinals (????!) and even offered a new name for her brother. To understand, you must know that she got a fish for Christmas and named it "Carolina." (Care-oh-lee-nah.) When we added another fish a week or so later, she named it "Bearolina." (Bare-oh-lee-nah.) So, what should Baby Boy be named? "Darolina." (Dare-oh-lee-nah.) No kidding.

No news is good news?

2009-01-10T22:47:00.003-05:00

So here's the skinny: I'm one week away from Baby Boy's due date, and we have a doctor's appointment on Monday afternoon. I left the last appointment under the impression that as long as everything was still looking okay, he would probably break the bag of waters at the next appointment. Soooo, that would mean we should have a son by Tuesday or Wednesday.

Tonight, I felt really weird all of a sudden. Burning up hot, feeling like I'm going to throw up, a little woozy. It passed after about an hour, and then five minutes ago I got some sharp pains in my lower back. Yet, it didn't feel like I remember contractions feeling last time. Wait - I don't really remember contractions from last time very well. I remember a great epidural. So of course, what's running through my head right now? "Woah. What if? Oh, no. What if... back labor?! And I still need to work on lesson plans! No, she'll get by with what I've given her until I can get more plans in. Why haven't I finished those?! Ow, that hurt. Maybe I'm sitting weird. Yeah, that's it." Aren't you glad that you're not Jason, sitting here with a crazy woman?

Tomorrow, I'm hoping to get a final shot of "The Belly," which I will happily post ASAP. I also plan on making Calico Beans and Zucchini Gratin. I am very excited about tomorrow's lunch. I hope I get to eat it, because the alternative is ice chips in a hospital bed.

Pregnant and Slightly Perturbed

2008-12-26T08:19:00.010-05:00

Okay, the sarcasm from my last post is catching up with me. ("...immoral to blog without posting pictures...") No pictures today - just some thoughts.

For the last month or so, I've been hearing this question asked over and over again to the point where it's annoyed me. No, it's not, "Are you ready for the baby to come?" or "Do you have a name picked out?" (Yes, and no.) In various forms, I've heard this question asked by reporters interviewing parade-attenders, characters in Christmas plays, and even commercials for stores where you can find the gotta-have gift.

What does Christmas mean to you?

I'm no Scrooge. My front entrance has garland, ribbon, and a wreath. I made cookies for Santa. I purposefully wore a red shirt to a Christmas party and carried homemade pumpkin bread to our neighbors. So, it took me about nine minutes of ranting to Jason before I could articulate why I'm annoyed by this question.

Being possibly three weeks away from delivering a baby boy, I've been thinking a lot about Mary, the mother of Jesus. I'm not fourteen and don't live in Israel, but I can definitely relate to her pregnancy... except for that whole being-a-virgin-and-carrying-the-Son-of-God thing. She wasn't worrying about whether or not she was drinking too much coffee, but surely she was thinking about the kind of man her baby could grow up to be. She wasn't concerned with which bedroom would be better for which kid, but she had to be a little stressed about the impending delivery and if she'd be able to raise the kid well. For all the questions I have about my own son, what must she have been going through, already having been told that he was going to be "great" and inherit the kingdom that she lived in?! What kinds of things would he go through for this? Was she educated enough to know all the prophecies that had been spoken about this person? Because then she would have been really scared for him.

I can't know what's to come for my son. I worry about whether or not I'll make good decisions on his behalf. I pray to become a good mom for the sake of him and Gabby. I daydream about trips to the ER, awkwardly answering awkward questions that kids awkwardly ask, missing clear signs of things I should be addressing...

Ironically, I've found the comfort for my fears in another baby. Knowing what happened to Mary's kid gives me hope for my own. I get why multitudes in the heavens praised God when he was born. The fullness of satisfaction that comes when I dwell on Jesus - who he is, how he loves me, what he did for me and the rest of the world - makes my heart sing with the angels that sang some 2000+ years ago. That this great ruler humbled himself enough to suffer for me at the end of his life here - that deserves my acknowledgement, admiration, devotion. Thinking on how he continues to care for me, grow me - that inspires yet more love for him. I get excited about his birth, because I know he would turn out to be a real savior for me. (Sorry, chain-store shopping bag printed with the words "We can save you." Though cleverly worded, you are something of a letdown.)

And so, knowing the changes that God has wrought in me, I trust my unborn boy, my parenting skills, and the years to come to him. Ahhh, peace.

Now, back to to What does Christmas mean to you?
I finally pinned my annoyance on the fact that there is so much in my way before I can get to the sweetness of dwelling on the birth of Jesus. The fact that we even have to ask the question "What does Christmas mean to you?" means that we are seriously distracted. Somehow, there came a point when "Christmas" could mean whatever you wanted it to mean. There's nothing inherently wrong with our traditions, our parties, our family gatherings, even our gift-giving. But doesn't it become a problem for me, as a Christian, when I'm running the Tradition Track so fast that I can only peripherally see what's on the center of the field ? Yes. And that makes me sad that so many people will miss that sweetness. Sad and annoyed at the Old Navy commercial that I secretly kinda liked.

So, I stopped giving myself a hard time about not sending the 40 Christmas cards that I bought (even though I loved the cards and especially family pictures that I got in the mail.) It just didn't happen this year (...or ever before.) And, we didn't have enough pumpkin bread for every house on our street. Oh, well. Also, I forgot to charge the stinking camera batteries for yesterday morning's present unwrapping. Stinks, but ohhhhh well.

Despite being uncomfortably 37 weeks pregnant, I've had such a great Christmas being contented in the Story and how it affects my life. It's such a great happiness that it would be what I gift to everyone if I could. In the meantime, pumpkin bread is all I've got. No - I've got this blog, and I pray this entry might cut away some of the junk for someone else.

Seeking advice

2008-12-11T21:13:00.012-05:00

For once, this post will mostly be about me, but it's immoral to blog without posting pictures. Gabby really likes Sparky (is that his name?) the Firedog. She's met him several times, and I could tell the multiple introductions were paying off here. Boldly did she approach, and strongly did she proclaim, "Hi, Puppy." Yes! I love that forwardness! Don't wait to be introduced! Make the other person [or dog] feel comfortable!

Okay, one more. I love this shot, particularly because just days before it was taken, I got called out for imitating Michael Jordan while directing the choir at church. Like Mike, like mother, like daughter, apparently.

On a side note, Gabby will soon be moving out of her room into the other bedroom, because Baby Boy will be taking over her room. This means that she loses the closet door with the MJ cereal box poster left behind by the last family who lived here. We never took it down. (Who would?!!!) However, it's comforting to know that both our kids will start life out well - in a Carolina blue room with The Greatest Player of All Time guarding their jammies.

Now, on to the main purpose of this post. Just a little more than 5 weeks to go before this kid is due to arrive. 5 weeks, 2 days. But who's counting? I've got tons to be excited about. Christmas break, family visits, brand-new life to meet, and... MATERNITY LEAVE! Okay, I don't hate my job. In fact, I really like it most days. But, who would not be excited about a little change of pace? This is a tough time of year on musicians/music teachers anyway, so yeah - I'm just a little thrilled to think that soon enough I'll be spending a few days simply focusing on my little family, trying to get us through the first weeks of Baby Boy's life.

Despite my excitement, I haven't forgotten what maternity leave was like. Okay, yeah, I'll be ready to go back to work eventually, because I'm a person who needs structure imposed on her. And not just that - life's flat out hard sometimes when you're not sleeping. Ooooh... can't forget the hormone changes. And I haven't even tried this with another kid in the house. So I know it won't be all daisies and rainbows. I've been considering what I might like to do to stay connected to the rest of the world during my six-week semi-hibernation. I could blog daily, but I'm afraid that could push me over the edge of the Self-absorbed, Aren't-my-kids-the-cutest, I-haven't-a-clue-what's-happening-with-anyone-else Cliff. I was thinking about something... more interactive. Like Facebook.

What I'm about to say may offend some of you Facebookers, but hear me out.

Facebook could be a great way to spend some time. It doesn't require physical exertion. I'd like to find out what folks are up to. It would fight against my aversion to popular stuff. (I was the only 3rd grader in 1988 that really hated New Kids on the Block.) It would probably push me to face some old friendships that I regretfully neglected, which is a little intimidating. (Will these people "friend" me, yet secretly hate my guts?) Anyway, it would be good to go ahead and resolve some of that, right? If I feel bad for not keeping up with important folks from certain periods of my life, why not try to catch up with them in a way that seems normal to everybody else? Additionally, I could say to myself, "Smalltown, USA has not succeeded in its quest to turn me into a backwards bumpkin. People can no longer stare at me like I have a goiter when I say I'm not on Facebook."

Facebook could also be a terrible waste of time. I've heard/read you Facebookers' laments about how addicting it is. I was once addicted to Minesweeper during exams. It is not far-fetched to imagine me not hearing Gabby's cries for a PBJ because I'm glued to Suzy Q's photo album. And I don't even know Suzy Q. Most importantly, I'm still trying to determine the value of communicating this way. Is this really the kind of "connection" I want to support? Isn't it a bit superficial, and am I helping to normalize to a serious problem of my generation - being connected to everyone and no one?

So - the comment button is begging to be clicked. What say you? I'm especially interested to hear from those of you who've booked your faces... or whatever.

It's the most wonderful time of the year.

2008-12-02T21:00:00.007-05:00

As for the title of this post, I sing that song year-round, usually editing the lyrics as needed. Admittedly, the first line gets its fair share of air time when I'm feeling sarcastic and it's time for standardized testing at school. Anyway, here is an even better song:

Tonight: Picking out the tree

Seeing Gabby get genuinely excited about holiday stuff really does make it the best part of the year for me. Or at least, I feel that way tonight. When I started pulling out decorations yesterday, she was grinning like mad. That might have been hard to do, come to think of it. Thanksgiving night, she busted her chin open and got her first trip to the emergency room. (May it be her last!) Please pardon the remaining dinner on the cheeks and the inevitably cruddy peeling glue over the wound. (I wait until right before bedtime before 'operating.')

The BooBoo: "I fell on a pedestal..." (base of a column) "...at Maw Maw's house..." (true) "...and I bumped my chin..." (to say the least.)

So here we are, through Thanksgiving, preparing for Christmas, loving the cookie baking and tree trimming and Nativity calendar calendaring... Things I wouldn't care about half as much if I couldn't do them with my three-year old. Frankly, it's nice to have something new to do with Mom-Daughter time.

The Cake: Three Years Old!

That brings us to the entirety of a month that we missed on the blog. I have no pictures of her in her Halloween costume. If you want to give me 40 lashes, get in line. My plan is to dress her up in it sometime soon and take some pictures.

Then came the birthday party. Linda made another amazing cake, and when Gabby saw it, she blurted, "ANOTHER ONE!" Last year, we had a penguin. This year, we had a bluebird. I was stunned to learn that such remarkably different birds pose for pictures with the same facial expressions. Gabby was pretty thrilled with the cake, the presents, and the face time with family.

Jumpin' Beans, Sittin' Beans

One of the reasons we chose to have a small, family party at Jennifer's in Raleigh was the proximity to a really cool place called Jumpin' Beans. It's basically a big room with the biggest inflatable jumper you've ever seen. What a cool way to spend your third birthday, right?! Maybe not. I should have known that a kid who refuses to climb past the first platform on the Chic-fil-A playground might be afraid of a giant inflatable jumper and slide. She did enjoy the tiny adjacent room meant for young toddlers, and one day, I think she'll look back and regret all the fun opportunities she passed up due to her inhibitions. Or maybe she won't be like me, after all.

Aunt Rach, Aunt Jenn: Good genes for Gabby Girl.

Candy Land: Now a daily ritual.

The Belly: 33 1/2 weeks, breech baby. That explains why he tries to climb out the wrong way a couple of times a day.

Birthday weekend

2008-10-26T20:04:00.006-05:00

Operation Battery Recovery Update: Mom and Dad showed up this weekend with my charger. Yes, they mailed it to me, but apparently I've left two chargers there. So now, I have one in my possession, the previously mailed one lost in my house, and no batteries to charge. I even make myself grin.
Looking at the picture below, you might think this post's title means it's Gabby's birthday.
It's not Gabby's birthday for almost three weeks. Rachel turned 25 on the 24th, and somehow, Princess Gabby scored gifts. Hmmm...
Mom and Dad won't be here for the big 3 y.o. party, but they wanted to watch Gabby open her gift. Who can blame them? Plenty of "Wowwwww..." and "OooOoooOooooh!" to go around. Neither do we lack in "funny faces."

I did a lot of cooking this weekend, and I'm pretty excited that I'm finally turning into a good cook. I ate lasagna recently at an unnamed chain restaurant, and I thought for the first time in my life, "I like the way I make this better." That, my friends, is success. And may I continue my bragging by mentioning that I recently made fried okra that I would be proud to serve to either one of my grandmothers? Thank you. Thankyouverymuch. This is my "You got beef with me?! I will fry you" look. (It's actually ground turkey.)

Gabby's been into cooking more frequently, too. I think it's because she can walk in her finally-clean-and-slightly-organized room, which means playing with her mini-kitchen is easier. Her favorite? TEA PARTY!

Megan, here is your requested belly shot. 28 weeks, 1 day. From the neck up, do I not look like my MOM?! Geezopete!

So, I doubt I'll post again before November 4th, knowing me. Let me just let you know that Jason and I have not discussed the candidates in front of Gabby, but she is well aware of who they are and has made her decision. After watching clips of them recently, she decided that Obama speaks loudly (rally voice) and McCain speaks quietly (interview voice). But, that's not what took her vote. She chooses McCain because she likes his hair. That's right, Balding Men of America - someone likes your hair enough to vote you into the most powerful office in the world.

A Lesson in Battle-Picking

2008-10-10T13:46:00.003-05:00

If you only read stories because they accompany pictures or videos, stop here. My mom very graciously mailed back my camera battery charger when I left it in Kentucky. Now that I have some time to post today, the batteries are dead, the charger's missing, and extra batteries are nowhere in sight. Not only that, but sitting in that camera is a great little video of Gabby singing . Yah.
--------------------

Recently, Gabby and I were coloring together. (Shout-out to Rachel, the big white table built by Don, and the color-naming contest with the 5 gallon container of crayons.) All adults that color will tell you that it's quite therapeutic. Try it. Anyway, we were coloring and I looked over to see Gabby gripping her crayon the way a Harley rider would grip the handle of his or her bike, except with the index finger sticking out. Wha?! Gabby has long been able to hold crayons/markers/golf pencils with the proper writer's grip. Excuse me, ma'am, are you aware that you were doing 14 months in an almost-3 zone? We are not about to regress in this house! No way, no how! So of course, I suggested that she hold it the way she knows how to.

"No, Mommy. Miss Tracy told me to hold it like this."

Miss Tracy! Why, that back-stabbing preschool teacher!
"Really? Hmmm.... Well, why don't you hold it like this....."

"MOMMY! Don't worry about it! It's not--a big--deal!" (Wish you could get the rhythm of that. Hilarious. So grown.)

Gabby retreated to her picture of Elmo jumping in leaves, and I retreated to the corner to lick my wounds. My almost-3 year old saw the value of the crayon grip properly (where I failed to), AND put in me in my place the same way I would do her.

It turns out that Miss Tracy may have some artistic skill herself. I spoke with the art teacher at school, and holding the crayon that way is training different muscles that real artists use when they sketch or do larger-scale work.

Oh, yeah. I have seen people hold charcoals and pastels that way before. Never mind, Gabby. You were right. It's not a big deal.

Seasons of love

2008-09-08T18:22:00.008-05:00

I was trying to get at the concept of being in a new season of life with the title of this post. But before I get all preggers-emotional and have "Seasons of Love" from Rent stuck in my head all night, I think I'll move on.

Sooooo much new stuff around here!! Gabby spent her first real night away from both parents. In fact, she spent three with MawMaw and PawPaw. We were definitely more concerned about it than she was. Here's a shot of Gabby and her third cousin Cole playing at his house in Charlotte. Grandmas take you to do cool stuff like that, ya know.

Here's me at 20 weeks, in a new season of pregnancy that is nausea-free. It's about time for a baby bump shot, right? I'm sorry for previous generations who did not have the term "baby bump" to make them feel slightly glamorous, nor did they have cute maternity clothes. God bless you. Pregnancy is hard enough without hating your clothes and how you fit in them. I've heard the stories.

Ah! I just realized that I haven't announced on the blog... We're having a boy! I love Erin Ussery's name for him (until we announce whatever he will be called - NOT Tyrone): Little Boy Bluetz. So cute. I woke up the other day and had two names that I liked. No, I'm not telling. We don't plan to share the name until he's born. We're not being hateful. It's just a measure of self-protection, because some people cannot keep their very strong opinions to themselves, and I just prefer not to know who hates the name we chose.

Gabby has her first cousin on the Wells side. Meet Jackson Ray Meadows. Gabby said, "Ummm. I think I have to hold him forever." Either she really liked him, or she wasn't sure how to get him off her lap. Check out the red-hot fingernails. Aunts do cool stuff like that.

First day of preschool! Ironically, it was her britches that were too big for her on this all-important day. "3T" means so many things to so many people. Anyway, despite the oversized outfit, preschool was a success. Starting daycare, not so much. It's not that she hates it. She just sobs when I drop her off. Yes, it's normal, but no less heartbreaking. And yes, she stops crying two minutes after I leave, but that doesn't keep me from making ugly faces as I boohoo on the way to work. It's not helping that work is only a mile and a half away. No time to pull myself together!

I should have bought the bottle of Dimetapp before I even took her to the daycare. It's impossible to go to daycare and not pick up some germs right off. Impossible. So, here's Gabby about an hour ago, chilling after her bath. No, not chilling. Warming. I even made her some quasi-hot tea. I wonder if that helps when you're two. Hmm.

To top all of this off, the FDA has now labeled me a bad mom for giving my kid half a dose of Dimetapp without asking our pediatrician. My mom gave it to us, and I was grateful. I can't begrudge Gabby two hours of a non-dripping nose just because ... Okay, that is a serious lightning storm that just dropped out of nowhere. Gotta go.

Ultrasound Update

2008-08-09T08:31:00.003-05:00

Quick update - I went in for my checkup. The nurse did an ultrasound, but she was not looking (or didn't tell me) what the sex of the baby is. However, the baby has four limbs and a spinal cord and a good heartbeat. Yay! We go for another ultrasound August 27th to find out.

In the meantime, keep my sister Natalie and her baby Jackson in your prayers. Jackson is due on the 25th, and Natalie's blood pressure has been a little too high.

Copperdation!

2008-07-24T18:19:00.006-05:00

It took awhile, but we finally learned that "COPPERDATION!" usually means "CELEBRATION! Like, let's party, y'all! Dance around like a fool! Yeah!!!!!" This is the only made-up word that Gabby uses, and maybe that's why we love it so much. Say it out loud. It's so much fun - even better when you yell it.

We have a couple of reasons to copperdate around here.

1) Jason survived falling out of an airplane.

This was his 32nd birthday collective present. (Thanks to those who contributed!) He said the only gift that ever compared was receiving Barney, the mutt that played basketball. However, he did say this one was more exciting. And how.

2) Gabby used the potty five times today!
Did you think I was going to show pictures of her on the potty? Well, yes, I would. But I've been pretty lazy with the camera lately, so all the pictures you have are courtesy of my sister Rachel. And me being lazy brings me to Copperdation #3...

3) Baby Lutz is 14 weeks, 5 days in utero.

It's not the particular day that's so great. It's that we can really rejoice in having passed through the scary first trimester. Hearing the heartbeat and seeing the baby on the screen almost two weeks ago was such a reassuring thing. I might get to find out the sex of the baby on the 30th... not sure yet. Unfortunately, Jason will be at youth camp. He's begging me not to find out without him, but who wants to wait another month for an ultrasound?! I think it's a good time to be grateful for cellphones. A penny for your thoughts?

At fifteen or sixteen weeks, I really started feeling better with Gabrielle. This pregnancy seems to be getting worse as I near that mark. That's what I keep blaming my laziness on, anyway. It's a good thing I don't have to be back at work until August 18th. I'd be catching a nap on a table in my office with the door locked, hoping the janitor didn't come in. Maybe he wouldn't tell anyone if I yelled, "COPPERDATION!" and threw confetti. I know my confidence could be bought for a slice of cake and a small gift.

Big Talker

2008-06-29T23:19:00.006-05:00

People who are around Gabrielle often enough to really hear her talk alot know that talking is her thing. I'm not saying you have to be around that often to know about Gabby's Talking Power, either. For instance, you might be the recipient of a phone call from me every other day and hear the phrase, "So, we were [insert story setting] and Gabby said...." Yeah, I know. I repeat our conversations all too much. It's like she's the popular girl at school, and I'm name dropping.

"...for real? And then she said... And I was like, 'Uh uh.' And
she was like, 'Yeah, girl.'"

Well, she is funny. So I'm not apologizing. Moreover, I will proceed with more Super Talking Power episodes. So there! And this one doesn't even have any impressive sentences or where'd-you-learn-the-word-"intruder" moments.

Episode 893
Lunch time, today. Taco Bell @ home. Nachos Bell Grande.

L: Jason, ¿quieres practicar hablando en español? (Jason, do you want to practice speaking in Spanish?)
J: [extended pause] Sí.

Spanish practicing commences. Lauren begins to turn her practice on Gabrielle.

L: ...mi pelo (points to "my hair,") mis pies (points to "my feet")...
G: Mi barbar. [Points to rib cage.]
G: Mi shooshoo. [Points to wrist.]
G: Mi NO--- NO! [Points to arm.]

Yes, she knew what she was doing. She cracked up. Her "mi no no" was undoubtedly her way of saying, "Mom, I can do this, too, and you sound like an idiot."

Like a bad dream...

2008-06-14T21:32:00.006-05:00

One of my least favorite recurring dreams is set in "high school" (which of course, looks like some weird combination of schools I attended instead of Richmond Senior.) Class has been going on for weeks, or sometimes it's the day of the final exam, and I'm desperately trying to find my way to class for the first time. Sometimes I can't get a ride, and sometimes I don't even know what classes I'm scheduled for. Folks who know me well might analyze this dream as me dealing with my lifelong procrastination tendency. (Tendency? That's being generous.) Fellow Tarheels are smiling because they've caught the similarity between the dream and the first half of my undergraduate education. Note, Dad: Similarity - not exact replication. I did graduate, you know.

Opening up the blog tonight gave me the same feeling as when I wake up from that dream. FEBRUARY 22nd!!!? Holy pajamas, I'm late! I even discovered that I'd begun an entry Easter weekend, but never posted. So, if you look below this entry, you'll see a few pictures from three months ago. [Slapping myself on the forehead.]

Maybe I have procrastinated. Maybe it really was because our computer is running that slow. Maybe it was because it was a really weird, difficult ending to the year at school. Maybe it's because I'm pregnant and tired.

Yes, for those who don't know... We're expecting again! (Insurance claims people, look away, please.) I can't go to the doctor until July for insurance purposes, but I think we're due in the middle of January. The couch and I have gotten really chummy, because the nausea and I are duking it out. Gabby is a trooper, and she modifies her play time so I can play from the couch. You'd be surprised what we can do. Puzzles, play-dough, books, Legos, TV. TV probably didn't surprise you.

So, enough blabbing, and on with the pictures. Now that we're borrowing Rachel's computer for a while, blogging is a lot easier. Hopefully I can get a video of G singing soon. That kid might take after Mommy after all. People in stores love the "Name That Grocery Item" song.

Big Girl Bed!!!
Pink with polkadots. Aaaaah!

Hot Rod

Mothers' Day 2008
Never thought I'd do matching seersucker, but it happened.

Balloon Fixation
I guess it happens to everybody at some point.

Easter Weekend

2008-03-26T20:42:00.004-05:00

When the needle on my patienceometer is running higher, I'll battle my camera and computer to get some pictures from this weekend up. Until then, I'll use these nice shots sent in by Rachel. Thanks, Chell Bell!

Good Friday

Saturday Easter Egg Hunt

Easter Sunday

BUI

2008-02-22T22:49:00.004-05:00

If this blog stinks, you can ticket me with my first BUI, because I just downed that syrup that blasphemes the name "Cherry." Disgusting though it is, I'm so grateful for Nyquil and all its generic over-the-counterparts. But let's not waste more blog space on sickness. Everybody's got it. It's awful.

In case I didn't mention on the last post, Jason has stepped into that undefined role of preacher/secretary/youth pastor with no official title at the church again. Our head pastor resigned, so he is back to that unorthodox schedule again. It seems like he works four hours, takes two hours off, works two hours... 'round the clock.

Gabby has finally found her inner-2 year old. When or why, I don't know, but one day the Joy of Repetition came upon her. Life has never been the same. VeggieTales. VeggieTales. VeggieTales. When that's over, then you're going to get the synopsis of the episode about 38 times while she marches around the table clockwise, counterclockwise, clockwise, counterclockwise...

Today, we argued over the crayon I had. She hasn't gotten a lot of peer interaction, so I try to provide some of that stubborness for her. Comes naturally. After realizing she wasn't going to use urple until I was actually done, does she A) lay on the floor, B) give a sigh of exasperation, or C) announce, "I give up"? *D) ALL OF THE ABOVE!

Favorite conversation of the last week -

G: I was hurt!

L: Yes, you hurt your hand, but who made it all better?

G: Mommy! J: Jesus!

G: Hmmmm.... Yeah, I need some Cheez-Its!

(Jason thinks she may be confused as to why we keep offering prayers to a snack cracker.)

Runner-up -

G: Come here, Mommy. I sorry you sick. I kiss your boo-boo and make it all better. [kisses my elbow] I wuv you. You sooo sweet and sooo smart!

This is the best we could get right before bedtime, but you get the idea. And I promise... she can match pitch about 3 out of 4 times. Ha. Like you care.

2 years, 2 months and change

2008-01-30T20:39:00.000-05:00

"Look, Mommy!" Gabrielle learned this trick awhile ago, but it never gets old.

Favorite phrases:

"I really want ______." (Never simply 'I want.')
"What dat sound wike?" (What is that sound?)
"Daddy, you need to take off your shoes." (A reminder not to wear them in the shower.)
"Can't caht meeeee!" ('You can't catch me!' Chase me!)
"Sorry." (Stepping on a pile of my clothes next to our bed.)
"[Insert anything bossy], please."
Did you make a stinky? "Not yet!"
"Why you do dat?"
"Don't wohwee." (Fret not, fair Mother.)
I not kidding. I not.

Post-bath, pre-hairbrush: Jason shows off his impressive new "tower," as they are always called around here. The video shows what happens next.

"I see it," means 'I want to see the video you just took.' You probably figured that one out on your own.

Post-bath, post-hairbrush: Pure sweetness.

She wasn't much of a snugglebunny when she was an infant, but you can see here that things have changed!

Novella to catch you up

2007-12-18T09:31:00.000-05:00

I tried to blog on December 18th. I really did. But, Blogger was not cooperating, and I had the flu, so I wasn't going to sit there forever. Yeah, yeah - it's been over 2 months without a post. You probably thought I'd retired the blog without a customary notice, and some of you Gabby addicts were probably cursing me under your breath. (Can't blame you there.) BUT YOU WERE WRONG! We're back, and we're proud. [Shout out to Arrested Development fans, especially Melissa.] Pictures will come on another day when Blogger is working better.

November

Gabby's 2nd birthday party: Totally rad. Gabby had a blast, but the memory that remains for her is "Penguin Cake." Ever since VBS this summer, she's had a slight obsession with penguins. Well, maybe we power the idea by purchasing penguin-themed everything. What I have learned from this is that black, orange, and yellow do not look cool for a 2 y.o. bday party, even though they're "penguin colors." Linda (MawMaw) even made a penguin cake for her birthday, and 2 months later, at the mention of "party" or "birthday," you're sure to get "PENGUIN CAKE!" Rachel gave her a drumset. More to come on that later.

Thanksgiving: We hosted both sides of our family for The Big Meal, and it was truly something to be thankful for. Even though in-family fights might be more entertaining than our peaceful gathering, I'm not stupid enough to wish for them.

December

Every Day 'Til the 25th: Unbelievably busy. 7 Concerts, a play, a nativity scene, sound systems, rehearsals, long-winded mayors giving speeches in 30-degree weather, students in pre-break stupor, rehearsals, shopping, rehearsals. My guess is that you could make your own list about December that looks as ridiculous as this one.

Anniversary: 5 years! Definitely worth noting on the blog. Spent an afternoon and evening doing adult stuff... Eating at a real restaurant, shopping somewhere other than Walmart, and watching a PG-13 movie. Shame on you.

KY/TN/China: Packing, driving, unpacking, packing, driving, unpacking... But so worth it!!! China was my abbreviation for China Grove, where MawMaw and PawPaw Hull live. Didn't seem fair to only abbreviate the other destinations, and "China" sounds much more exotic than "C.G." By the way, can you believe that Jason had never heard "China Grove" by the Doobie Brothers before 2007?!

New Year's Eve: Attended the Fish Fry/Auction at the church. Got a treadmill, among other things. I don't make resolutions, but...

January

New Year's Day: Made a "List of Things I'd Like to Do in 2008." Not resolutions, mind you. One of them is learning to dribble a basketball between my legs. I would be the coolest music teacher I know if I could do that. Sorry, fellow music teachers. I would be, unless you can one-up that.

Today, 1/5: This morning, Gabby woke up and played in our room for a bit while we came to. She found a magnet for the MagnaDoodle, which has gone missing. I suggested she get another toy. "Alllllwight!" says Gabby. A moment later ... CRASH! I started cracking up, because she is carrying her drumset from her room to ours. She puts it down, announces, "This is the drums" [in case we didn't know,] and goes back for the drumsticks. A short concert later, I'm hysterical and Jason is still silent and motionless. That guy could sleep through an earthquake.

Gratuitous Halloween Costume... Apologies in Advance

2007-11-01T19:43:00.000-05:00

Who opened the Pixar studios and let the characters out?!

Oh! It's only Gabby, dressed uber-adorably as a penguin. Silly me.

Honestly, now who would stick a balloon to a toddler's head with static? Certainly not me...

Actually, it was Jeff (Husband of Marianne) who was so clever.

If that tennis shoe weren't sticking out at the bottom, she might have fooled you.

This is now the background of all 3 computers that I work at. Right click. "Set as Background." Beautiful.

I couldn't believe she sat still long enough to get this done. Also displayed in this picture is the famous "Look, Ma! Closed eyes!" pose known to haunt Wells Family portraits.

Jason & youth group member Alex. Yup, that says "Jason" across the black heart on Alex's face. Scary in too many ways.

Gabby & gal pal Rapunzel. (I mean, Claire.) Holding hands, going from game to game... so sweet! Since Claire is a younger sister, she exerts power in her newfound Older Kid role by lifting Gabby about 3 inches off the floor twice an hour . I find this sweet as well, since I think Gabby could stand to be bossed around for once.

Bee Bee Bee

2007-10-17T22:16:00.000-05:00

We have no great headlines to share right now. Except maybe this one out of the local paper...
Lawnmower Race Controversy Prompts Letter to Editor

This 16 seconds will be worth all those weeks of waiting for a new post.
I proudly present: Jesus Loves Me (Remix)
I didn't get the camera on fast enough to get "Jesus," but you'll recognize it.

Coming soon...

2007-10-11T20:24:00.000-05:00

I'm as disappointed in me as you're disappointed in me. I promise a new post will be up soon! 5 1/2 weeks is an unthinkable time to go without blogging. Especially when Gabby is saying new things like, "Oh, Mommy. I'm so happy to see you!" and "This is my house, boy."

I'll get the camera batteries charged up, and I will aim for a new post by the end of the weekend. Don't give up on us!

Hats

2007-09-01T20:45:00.000-05:00

Gabrielle wears many hats. So, Modern Women, she understands your plight. The balancing act isn't always easy, but it's got to be done.

Architecht

Kids at the beach. Some of 'em hate it, some of 'em love it. Gabby liked it so well that on the morning we were leaving, she brought us her bathing suit and said, "Outside?"

We saw a lighthouse on TV today, and she said, "Sandcastle!" Well, not really, but we get it.

Fashion Model

Aunt Jenn Jenn was gracious enough to lend Gabby her infamous Green Apple Shoes. You wouldn't be surprised to learn that one of the apples isn't attached anymore, would you?

Community Alarm

This is Mister Mahk. Mark ("Mahk" to Gabby) is a dear friend at church who lets Gabby help him ring this old-fashioned bell about 50 times to announce to anyone within a 2-mile radius that it's time for Sunday School. This can't be the most effective method of helping people get to church. After having been woken up many times by bagpipes outside my door, I can say that loud 'alarm clocks' do not put one in the most spiritual mood.

Church Organist

Soon after this picture was taken, Gabby turned and said, "Not working, Mommy." True enough. I'm glad she's not tall enough to reach the power switch.

Student

This is Miss Becky. Becky is Gabby's Sunday School teacher. Becky was also the focus of Gabby's concerted effort to get attention during prayer last Wednesday night. For several minutes, G sat quietly on my lap. Finally, she looks over my shoulder and begins whispering and waving. "Becky. Becky. Hey, Becky! Hey!"

Royal Celebrity

Check out this product placement. Unbelievable.

Sweetness of Summer

2007-08-09T20:40:00.000-05:00

I'm sure everyone will have an opinion, but I think I like Gabby in the gold and Jason in the purple. You can vote in the comments section.

Before the heat wave, Gabby and I went outside to play one morning, and she grabbed her sunglasses. Humorous by itself, but funnier because she didn't put them on when we got outside. Like mother, like daughter.

After I bought the sunglasses, we taught her to say, "Cool, baby." Now we're working on, "What up, dawg?"

PBS is the primary channel running in this house, with ESPN2 a distant second. I don't know how we get ESPN2 with basic cable, but that's another story. Somehow, on Saturday mornings for the last month, Gabby and I end up watching Bob Ross. You know, Bob Ross - the hippy painter guy with the afro who says things like "a happy little tree." And you can't help but look at the tree and feel a little happy yourself. I'm hoping that Gabrielle will pick up a few tips from this guy, because she is not going to get any visually artistic skills from either of her parents. Poor kid. Without Bob Ross, her Kindergarten trees might be the saddest in the class.

As an 'artsy-fartsy' type myself, I believe kids need an early start to a good arts education. I don't think Gabby's buying my Intro to Architecture lectures, though. This expression definitely says, "It doesn't look like the Space Needle to me..."

On Monday, I went through a second round of chemo injections in my foot. I'll spare the mood of the blog by omitting most of the details, but it looks like I've got 3 more rounds to go. Enough depressing myself - on with felicity!

Gabby's a fish! I mean, she's a waterbug.
I mean, she loved the pool from the moment she got in for the first time. Here's a none-too-flattering shot, but it gives you the idea.

Homegirl has taken to lounging pretty well. Like mother, like daughter.

And finally, a sneaky little peek at Jason & Gabby. This is in the church basement where a college kid was giving a concert in the next room. Altogether now: Awwwww....

Oh, foot.

2007-07-25T14:07:00.000-05:00

So, we went on our roadtrip, and it was even better than expected. I would expound, but I've only got so long before Jakers! The Adventures of Pigglywinks is over. I wish I had time to edit and post video from the Lexington Legends ballgame we went to with Mom and Dad. Perhaps another day.

Long story short: All three Lutzes enjoy respective roadtrips, meet at home for a few hours, and disperse again.

Jason and I went to Chapel Hill on Monday (that's the dispersing part) while Linda kept Gabby here at the house. I finally had the bleomycin injections (5 or 6?) into The Plantar Wart (AKA Rufus, so named by the Wells clan.) The following video is really a slideshow of pictures of my foot. Some of you are probably clutching your desks at the idea that I would actually post this, but I was asked to! I promise! See, I even put it into a video format so that no one would be surprised when they pulled up the page. You'll have to push play if you actually want to see the foot. Okay?

WARNING: This is a plantar wart. It is disgusting.

I'll have to go back for a second round of injections to get that white area that hasn't been treated yet. You can only have so much bleomycin in one treatment. It really isn't hurting right now... just a little tender. I also have a pins-and-needles numb/tingling thing going on from my ankle to my knee. That is described as "unusual" by my doctor. I concur.

I have to go, because someone is knocking my carefully stacked pile of loose papers and junk mail off of the fireplace.

Nothing new

2007-07-10T08:08:00.000-05:00

This Thursday, we'll celebrate Gabby's 20 months of life by taking off on a roadtrip. Well, really it's just that those things happen to coincide, but don't tell her that. Gabrielle and I will embark on another TN-KY adventure, and Jason will work here until he leaves for youth camp on Sunday. Unfortunately, the timing of all of this means that we'll miss Jason's sermon - which STINKS - but I'm requesting it be recorded somehow.

We've hit that point in the summer where there's not a great deal to tell. I suppose that I could make a list of Gabby's fun expressions - like "Ohhhhh myyyy," "Wha ahooh DOONG?!" (What are you doing?!), "Bow bow?" (I pulled out my hairbow for the 40th time today. Would you please put it back in?) and "Hoo HOOOO!" (complete with fists pumping and dancing feet) - but what fun would that be? I could tell you that Gabby was great entertainment at our Independence Day trip to the Hull House. (Roger and Linda's - not the one from the book) But, again, you'd not find anything unusual about that. One struggles to find unique subjects for each and every blog so that valuable readers such as yourselves will continue subscription. I guess I'm resigned to posting another video to keep your attention.

The author of Ecclesiastes says there's "nothing new under the sun." And this is true. Gabby isn't the first kid to learn to use a fork. Yet, for some reason, my mom will view this video eight times a day, even though she watched her own three girls learn to use utensils. Perhaps it's for the same reason that God maintains intense interest in us - we belong to him.

Odyssey of 33 days

2007-06-26T20:20:00.000-05:00

Mom says she wants me to write a book. A memoir, perhaps? Jason just asked if I'm too drugged up to write a blog. This is not a bad question, but that's for later. Irregardless, I'm about to drop a novelette on you. After all, I'm 'documenting the Lutz family life,' and there's a lot to cover since the swimsuit post.

How long will I be able to sneak pictures of really cute stuff, hide the camera, and immediatetly begin scolding? Click. No, no, noooo, Gabby! We do not climb on the table. No ma'am!

Jennifer (aka "Denn-Denn") took us to Pullen Park where they have this fantastic, historic carousel complete with creepy music. You know what I'm talking about if you watched Are You Afraid of the Dark on Nickelodeon back in the day.

Gabby was nervous at first but then decided that there weren't enough "wheeeee"s in the world to express her joy.

Lipstick on the face. Classic.

Being a preacher/teacher combo has not been as easy on the schedule as we initially expected. Here we are together on the blog to calm the fears of those of you who haven't seen us as a unit in a while. We're still married! And contrary to the look of this picture, we're glad about it!

My tense body language has nothing to do with us and everything to do with height. Dad, how far up do you think we were? I'm guessing 50 or 60 feet. Dad, Natalie, Rachel, Stephen, Jason, and myself climbed the firetower on top of a mountain near Pigeon Forge. It was all fun and games until somebody mentioned the weight limit. That's why I wouldn't move closer to Jason... It meant I had to let go of something. AYE! Thanks to Nanna/Cinnamom/Cindy/Mom for keeping Gabrielle.

Ode to the Popsicle.

There are many reasons I might post these pictures, but the primary incentive is knowing that Grandma Bettye will leave a comment having the word "orange" in it. I love comments.

In between a short mountain vacation and trips to Chapel Hill, we have very sweet moments like this:

Baby in the box on the carpet. Slide to the left, slide to the right. Carpet slidin' babies are outta sight! (Thank you, Kimberly Clark! We love your products! Thanks, Uncle Rog! Huggies are the best!)

Everybody knows that a cardboard box is the best toy of all. No surprise here.

Advent of the Ponytail!!!

Hip hip hooray!

(Okay, enough of that.)

Hairbows are becoming a regular part of our day now, and Gabby calls them "bow-bows."

Jason's mom used to bribe him to read in the summers with milkshakes. Good plan, Linda. Now his reading incentive is having a pretty girl to read to.

That does it for most of the photojournalism this time. Now for the heavier things:

Keep my uncle, D.A. Fye, in your prayers. We got to visit him in the UT hospital where he is making a second home these days. D.A. was hit while riding his motorcycle, and so far he's lost two toes and now has a staph infection. D.A. and Judy are pretty tough, and it makes me laugh at my fear of pain to think of what he's dealing with. You can pray for less pain, quicker healing, wisdom for the doctors, and encouragement for D.A. and Judy.

Speaking of feet and my fear of pain... This morning, the car overheated on the way to Chapel Hill, where we were due to meet a dermatologist. Why a dermatologist, you ask? My foot! Stick with me, people. It's all going to come together. I am drugged up on a Valium-wannabe in Chapel Hill with an overheated car in order to see a dermatologist who is going to inject bleomycin (chemotherapy) into my ginormous plantar wart. Ooohhhhh! They don't have the bleomycin in the office today?! What?! What?! An hour and forty-five minutes for nothing?! Argh. Mission aborted.

First Day of "Summer"

2007-05-23T22:50:00.000-05:00

There's no sound with this video. It's really just a slideshow. Enjoy!

And yes, I know that this kind of blog post is a self-indulgent show of nerdiness. I can't help it. Love for Gabby + love for technology = this.

Dancing Diaper Dandy

2007-05-10T19:51:00.000-05:00

Maybe I'm developing a video mania, but this one could not go unpublished. What's your favorite? The hip-jut/side-step or the twirling? She may mimic my facial expressions, but she's definitely mocking Jason's dance moves.

It's good to be the family blogger. Nobody can crack on my dance moves.

Birthday Golf-Hockey

2007-04-28T20:37:00.000-05:00

For Jason's birthday yesterday, Gabby indulged him in a good, old-fashioned game of Golf-Hockey.

Grandaddy Don, that swing looks oddly familiar...

One Month Later...

2007-04-22T20:12:00.000-05:00

I can't believe I left the blog sit for a month with no new posts. Even worse... I can't look at it from work now. They've blocked it on the school server. I know, I know - I should be working anyway. But other people get smoke breaks! Why can't the rest of us have a precious few minutes of down time? Oh well...

Easter Sunday we set out on our eight-day roadtrip. We spent a few days at Linda and Roger's, where Gabby fully enjoyed the privilege of being just the right size for this desk.

The Gabster was mightily awed by The Park, but she soon forgot her inhibitions and took on slides, swings, and masses of kids bigger than her.

First time down the slide: 5.7 [sloppy posture]

Third time down the slide: 10.0 [excellent speed!]

On Tuesday afternoon, Gabby and I parted ways with the Lutz side and headed for the hills. Four hours later, we passed those big ol' Appalachian hills and parked at Grandma Bettye and PawPaw Hawkins'. After a lovely Wednesday lunch, we hightailed it to Lexington, KY. "Whoooo hoo!" said Lauren. "Hooooo hoo!" said Gabby. While hanging with the rest of the Don Wellses, we enjoyed ourselves.

I went to the races with Dad and Rachel, and I have to say, it was even cooler than I expected. We got to stand right up next to the track where the horses come out of the gates and finish the race. Dad/Rach won about $40. Pretty neat.

Easter dress makes its debut 2 weeks late thanks to dress weather arriving 2 weeks late. Here are your pictures, Nanna!

Teeth Brushin' Time

2007-03-22T21:21:00.000-05:00

I know that for many, this video may won't be the most amazing 1:45 clip you've ever seen. But, there are a few blog subscribers who live far enough away that seeing Gabby get excited over brushing her teeth will be special enough to merit a video watching. Those few of you will think it's really neat when she whispers, "Oooohhh..." over a toothbrush. And those same few will get tickled at hearing her say, "Sure!" So, here is "Teeth Brushin' Time" for your viewing pleasure.

The rest of you who need to kill some time at work might find this useful, too.

I only wish we had captured the hyped-up "Yeahyeahyeahyeahyeah!" that comes right before she gets lifted up to the toothbrushing counter.

No pinching on this blog.

2007-03-13T20:35:00.000-05:00

Alright, folks. The amount of green in this post should cover us for two or three more St. Patrick's Days to come. No cyberpinching! Gabby doesn't need help discovering bad habits.

It seems difficult to write an entry that will even come close to being as satisfying as the last entry. If a picture is worth a thousand words, is a video worth a thousand pictures? (But wait... a video is a thousand pictures....) Anyway. Today's blog is something like a photo shoot.

Natalie came to town last week. Gabby even said her name or something like it. Natalie and I had a 4-hour Grey's Anatomy marathon, and we're now addicts. Anybody else out there a fan? If you're a Grey's mocker, then you can jump in Jason's boat. I think he's just jealous that I found a show worth watching every week and he hasn't.

Curious George is a huge favorite around this house. If you've read the books - and who hasn't? - you'd probably like the TV show on PBS. Pretty cute. The best part is the theme song. However, Curious George is being given a curious run for his curious money by Curious Gabby. We finally dug down deep in the pockets to go purchase some child-proofing gear at Lowe's yesterday. $13.84 buys a lot of peace.

And finally, I present Masterpiece Dinnerplate. I have only heard the followng phrase maaaaybe 3 times in our 4 years of marriage: "Please make this again." I'll admit, I've been more of a functional cook than a flavorful cook over the years. I can bake the chicken, but it's not going to be memorable. At least... not until now. In the last 4 days, I've gotten the thumbs up TWICE! This is huge, people. I rarely cook the same meal twice, because I can't remember it. Therefore, no recipes get practiced or perfected. So, my new plan is to take pictures of all quality meals I make and put them in my recipe book. I present to you:

Curried, grilled chicken
Asparagus with cheese sauce
Wild rice
Salad

The second meal wasn't quite as awesome, but the crab cakes were pretty tasty. Here's to all the women in my family who have prayed that I might attain their level of culinary artistry one day. I continue to covet your prayers, sisters.

Walking Talking Machine

2007-02-22T15:27:00.000-05:00

This video is from our outing yesterday, when it was 65 degrees!! We picked up pinecones, pinestraw, and weeds. (Mostly me with pinecones, all Gabby with the latter two.) We had a blast. She's quite proud of her sitting technique. Check it out.

It's really exciting when Gabby can answer questions.

Where is Bert's nose? [point]
Where is Gabby's bellybutton? [ lift shirt, point finger, giggle]
Did you make a stinky? [giggle]

She is mimicking our words by making the initial sound, and she's communicating better all the time by pointing, bringing us objects, etc. Her favorite word right now? "Ma." Nope, not Mama. Instead, "More." Over and over. BECAUSE SHE'S ALWAYS HUNGRY. She was ready to eat within minutes after birth, and she hasn't changed. But it's a good problem to have. And "ma" is cute, because it's always said looking you right in the eye with her eyebrows raised. Hard to resist.

And the winner is...

2007-02-11T23:06:00.000-05:00

It's a big night for music, and that's why I'm willing to stay up past midnight to watch TV on a school night. Yay, Grammys! However, you are the big winner at the moment, because I have tons of Gabby pictures! [Outlandish applause, screaming, and some fainting]

Busted! Now we know who's been stealing the coffee spoons from Sunday School rooms!

We caught Gabby sitting down with a good read more than once this week.

Little Drummer Girl

Wanna change the channel, maybe?

Folks we meet often ask, "Is she always so smiley?" My answer: "Most of the time!"

...but sometimes you might catch a don't-mess-with-me look. I taught her this one. If she keeps practicing, she could be a great teacher.

Actually, Gabby's cutting four teeth this week. Poor kid. Have you ever thought about how weird it is that your body knows when to let teeth come in? God is very clever.

Jason says I never post myself on the blog, so here's a shot of me an hour ago during commercial breaks. The red thing is my digital 8-track recorder... You might be a music nerd if you think having a good time means recording 4 and 5-part harmonies for "Come Thou Fount" and "The Lion Sleeps Tonight."

PS - Did anyone else watch the Grammys? Corrine Bailey Rae, John Legend, and John Mayer. HELLOOOOOO! Stinkin' amazing. Somehow, I missed Police. As we say in the South, "Dang it."

The magic wears off

2007-01-22T20:39:00.000-05:00

Law of Diminishing Returns: Daddy hides, Daddy surprises. Daddy hides under towel equally well, Daddy surprises. Daddy pours his heart into the towel trick yet again, Daddy is not as impressive.

Bedtime for Bonzo

2007-01-18T23:03:00.000-05:00

The digital camera has been rescued from its No Battery Purgatory! We'll share longer stories later. For now, allow these pictures to transport you into the nightly ritual in all its glorious cuteness.

Bathtime.

Pajamas and milk... until the milk turned into a toy car to be vroomed across the floor.

Choosing a literature selection.

I think someone could make a lot of money with a company called "Sleep Tight" or "Tuck U In." Tell me if I'm wrong, but I think a lot of people need some help settling themselves down for a decent night's sleep. Ambien? Lunesta, anyone? What if someone showed up at your house and said in a sweet voice every night (consistently on time, of course) "Okay, sweetie! Time to get ready for bed!" They handed you your footie pajamas and cup of hot tea, etc. You think I'm joking, but I can't even count how many adults I know who want a pair of footie pajamas.

Peace at Christmas

2006-12-22T16:07:00.000-05:00

This time last year, I was posting a picture of the Lutzes standing in front of a Christmas tree, and Gabby had cheeks the size of soccer balls. The story was about going to Tennessee to see family and not really seeing much of them because we were so sick. Once again: Christmastime, big cheeks, roadtrip looming, and sickness. Small differences really - cheeks are only slightly smaller, the trip is to Kentucky, and the sickness is starting before we actually get on the road. Oh yes, and no picture because I can't find the camera battery charger.

Gabby and Jason are in their beds, sleeping off the sickness. Speak of the devil; type of the angel. She's up now. Well, now we're both here to entertain and inform you. So anyway, Jason's been sick for about 10 days now. He's on antivirals and antibiotics, and he seems to be improving just a little today. Gabby has a bad case of what we like to call the "D-train." I am truly thankful that I've not been sick at the same time, and I pray I don't get sick at all.

When you only have about 15 channels, Oprah seems like a fantastic option every day. I think the most successful thing in the Oprah Show equation is that you leave each show feeling like a piece of the world has been fixed... even if it's just which jeans fit your figure best. I would imagine that at 5 PM every weekday, millions of women are unconsciously feeling, "I'm a better person for having watched that. The world is fixable. I'm at peace." But by 6 PM, they're probably realizing once again how messy life really is. Or maybe that's just me. Sorry for the diatribe. I digress. If I could bring you one little Oprah-style solution via this website, it would be another website:

http://www.flylady.net
Meet FlyLady. If you are living in CHAOS (Can't Have Anyone Over Syndrome) and need a system to get it together, she's your new angel. I followed this for a while, and I'll say that she does really help. Be prepared to spend awhile navigating the website, though. Hopefully her ways will bring you a little peace.

Here's my other thought about peace: I get peace from the thought that even though Oprah shows can't fix all that's wrong with the world, beauty can still exist in the middle of a big mess. If Jesus could be born into a whole world of sinners, then we can have some sweet memories despite viruses and infections.

Merry Christmas and lots of peace to ya.

December already?!

2006-12-03T15:14:00.000-05:00

A Sampling of Gabrielle's New Tricks

What does the cow say, Gabby? Moooo....

MMMMmmmmm.

Where is your tongue, Gabby?

How old are you, Gabby?

Christmas on the Square

Yesterday, my elementary school choir performed at an annual street fair in Rockingham. I was so proud of them. I was thinking that I had to have made a fool of myself grinning, conducting, making goofy faces to get the kids to smile through their stagefright... But then I took another look at this awesome picture and realized I wasn't the only one going the extra mile for Christmas Spirit. I don't know who she is, but she sure makes for a beautiful Christmas tree.

The Elmo Chair

This is Gabby's new Elmo chair, compliments of MawMaw and PawPaw. She does sit in it for a few minutes to watch TV, but mostly she loves to use it for a prop to make us laugh. Approach chair on knees, plant face, stick butt up in air. Pause. Turn around for laughter, repeat.

Other Happenings

Since last we posted, Gabby's gotten a haircut (just bangs), we travelled to TN for Thanksgiving, Carolina beat #1-ranked Ohio State, Gabby acquired two new boyfriends, Jason preached his first funeral, and Bruce got out of the backyard twice. We're looking forward to seeing many of you over the next month!!! Here's hoping our cars survive the holidays.

Stop the press!

2006-11-12T21:45:00.000-05:00

STOP, MOM! I don't want anybody seeing a picture of the last bit of babyhood left in me. If they knew that I still take a bottle before bed, they might not respect my maturity. Turning 1 is a big deal, and I want to make a good impression on my fans.

Gabs, no one will think less of you for drinking your milk from a bottle. It's just not talked about, but everyone's done it. Think of all the people you'll be freeing to speak the truth. Oprah will probably have you on her show!

Good point. We could put a great spin on this. Let's just make sure that we mix a little of my new skills in with this, and I think our PR machine will be oiled up and ready to go.

Okay. Well, how about talking up your new play skills?

Perfect. Like how I play ball with Dad, maybe?

Great. And what about your sense of humor?

ABsolutely. I doubt other 1 year-olds know how funny a mullet is.

That's probably true. But Gabby, let's not forget that what other people think is not the most important thing.

I know, Mom. But as long as they think that I care what they think, they'll like me more.

Gabby.

Sorry, Mom.

The Great Pumpkin

2006-11-04T16:14:00.000-05:00

Silly me, I forgot to charge the batteries for the digital camera before Halloween. Anybody know where I can plug in my Mom Brain for a recharge? Geez.

Plan 2: Catch my Pumpkin looking adorable with the trusty ol' 35 mm for long-term joy, and snap a few shots with my phone so you folks can be appeased in the meantime. Not sure if you can see it, but there's a stem on top of that hoodie. Thanks, Maw Maw, for a warm costume!

The dog is now named Bruce. Bruce is a great name, because it's fun to say, it has super-hero essence, it'll sound cool when some little pumpkin can't say the 'r.' Yay for Bruce!

Drum roll, please.

2006-10-17T19:38:00.000-05:00

Hi, folks! Gabster here. How do you like my Michael Jordan impersonation? I've even got on my sweatsuit so I could look more like him in the Hanes commercial. It's all part of my training as a young Tar Heel.

Anyway, we've got big news. It's so big that it has caused Mom to blog for the third time in a week. Yeah, I know. We have a new addition to the family! So here he is:

The problem is, we don't have a name for him. Here are some that have been offered:

Jake (Papa Don Wells)
Wishbone (Rachel Brown)
Max (Default dog name when Mom played Pet Shop growing up)
Spot (next door neighbor Ken)
Cedric or Tyrone (Dad)

It seems like there might be one more, but I can't remember right now. It's past my bedtime, so forgive me. If you have a better idea for a name, leave a comment on the blog. Here's some pertinent information: He's a Jack Russell mix, he's really hyper, he was a stray that we found at the church, and he's pretty well-behaved. He also likes to dig. He has already buried the rawhide bone Mom bought him, plus a few Milkbone snacks, too. We want an interesting name that really fits him, and we don't want to offend any of Mom's friends by giving the dog the same name as their sons. Also, it would be good if you could help us out, because I would like Mom to call the dog by name before I get old enough to name him myself. We brought him home from the church over two weeks ago, so time is running out before we are branded bad dog owners.

Technology, Soccer, and BBQ

2006-10-14T21:33:00.001-05:00

Well, I'm irritated at Google right now. I've uploaded a 7 second Gabby video to their site, and now you're supposed to be able to watch it right here on this very electronic journal page. But there's some problem that is too boring and complicated to explain here. Maybe it's not Google's fault. Maybe it's Blogger's fault. Have you considered lately how scary things are getting online? (Besides the whole identity theft thing...) The other day I purchased this music thingy online from Yahoo, and when I had a few problems, it occurred to me: I would be out 60 bucks if I couldn't get this to work, because there's no hotline to call and no online customer service that I'm aware of. Some "help yourself" advice, a good pat on the back, and you're on your own. Now that I have that out of the way, if you can't get this link to play for you, well, help yourself [pat pat] and good luck.

Click here: Gabby dances

The voice in the background is our friend Jay Webb, whom Gabby loves dearly. Notice her tongue hanging out as she dances to "Elmo playing the tambourine" in a fancy book from Maw Maw.

I thought this was going to be a super-special post with my fancy new video abilities, but instead I can only offer a few more pictures and frivolous commentary.

I mentioned that all three of us had a stomach virus that lasted about a week. We managed to pass it on to my dad, Jason's mom, Margaret (a familiy friend), Marianne (our babysitter), Marianne's husband, Marianne's son, and maybe Jason's stepdad. At this point, all of you who live far away aren't feeling so bad about that.

Jason played in a South Rown High alumni game this morning. One of the player's moms called our team the "Golden Agers" due to the fact that they were the older alums wearing yellow pennies. (Okay, Non-Athletes - a penny is like a jersey that designates what team you're on.) I thought the mom was pretty clever, especially because I like to take every opportunity to remind Jason that he's older than me. Like right now. See how I have even managed to call him a geezer on a public web space? Oops! Did I say "geezer"?! I meant "wise man." Another player's dad confirmed this attainment of wisdom after the game. "Man! If y'all had passed the ball like that in high school, nobody coulda beat ya! Funny how you'll get smarter so you don't have to run when you get older." Actually, Jason is probably faster now than he was in high school, and he did play very well.

After the game, we went to Gary's Barbecue in China Grove. Gary's is the kind of place that you can't get in New York City. Hello, BBQ sandwich with perfect coleslaw. Hello, sweeeeeeeeet tea. Hello, texture-balanced french fries served in a cardboard container. Hello, neon pigs hanging on the fake wood panelling. (Check it out above.) And hellooooooo, risque 1950s bathing beauty hanging next to the old Coca-Cola sign. No thanks, I don't need to join you in a cup of delicious Golden soda. I'm quite comfortable in my bright orange leather chair. Seriously, I really love Gary's. If you don't have a Gary's kinda place in your life, seek one out.

I'm done dispensing silly stories and awkward advice for today. If you're still checking this blog, how about leaving a little comment for me? I don't think I want to keep blogging if I lost all my readers in the month-long hiatus.

Much love to all, and to all a good night!

HANG ON!

2006-10-13T10:13:00.000-05:00

Dear readers,

Please do not give up on this poor writer. I promise that soon and very soon Documenting... will get a massive addition. Unfortunately, I have not been taking many pictures lately, our internet at the house has been pitiful, and we had a stomach virus for a week. Among other things. But as my friend Libby says to her 5th grade students, "Excuses belong in the trash can." SOON!

Here's a hint at what's to come.
This is Maverick, possibly the cutest puggle on the planet. (Pug + beagle) But he belongs to Josh & Erin Hall (jehall.blogspot.com) and not Jason & Lauren Lutz. I'll say it for you: What on earth could this clue mean? Maybe that will get you to come back just one more time.

Lu Jie Wei

2006-09-16T19:09:00.000-05:00

Lu Jie Wei... (Jason's Chinese name)

Jason, The Stay-At-Home Dad

Jason stays at home most mornings until Marianne, the babysitter, arrives. All you women out there will probably be jealous of me when you hear this next bit. Keep in mind that he watches Gabrielle and gets in a good dose of PBS cartoons, too. Every morning, he gets up and unloads/reloads the dishwasher. (Don't think I haven't noticed, babe!) He often does a load of clothes, and when I get home the house always looks decent, because he knows that it embarasses me to have people over to a messy house. Gentlemen, if you haven't figured it out, a lot of women feel this way. I bet you can score lots of points in the romance game if you help her pick up before people come over. Anyway, I digress.

One night as we were going to sleep, I commented that the sheets smelled unusually good. I knew that he'd washed and changed them that morning. (Two points for Jason!) So I says, "Man, these sheets smell great. What'd you wash them in? Do we have some of that lavender detergent? I thought that was Natalie's." Jason says, "I dunno. I used the stuff in the blue bottle." I said, "Oh, you mean the white bottle with the blue label." "No," says Jason,"the blue bottle." This continues for a few more rounds until I realize aloud, "Jason, that's Downy." Yes, he asked what it was. And yes, he was really, really upset that someone makes liquid fabric softener. And I quote:

"That's STUPID!"

Jason, The Competitor

Soccer field. John Madden video game. Tetris. Solitaire. It doesn't matter what the game is; he wants to win! When he doesn't win, you'll hear a similar sentiment:

"Man, this game is STUPID."

Note that when we've played Tetris on his PlayStation2 for the last 4 nights, it's been pretty evenly matched. In case you've never seen or played it, Tetris is kind of like building a puzzle under pressure. Remember the episode where Lucy and Ethel couldn't keep up with the candies coming down the conveyor belt and they stuffed chocolates everywhere? It feels like that. I feel that Tetris is great therapy for your marriage. Why? It's the only time you have an alibi to say things like, "You don't even challenge me," or yell "COMIN' ATCHA!" or snicker at one another. And I am better at Tetris than him, even though he's the competitive one.

Jason, The Teacher

I love to see Jason developing his skills as a teacher. Maybe that's because I'm a teacher, but I think it's just because we all want to be proud of our spouse. And no doubt, he has a passion for teaching. We started a Sunday School class two weeks ago for young couples. I think it's difficult to lead your peers, but he seems relaxed and comfortable teaching the Word. And that I'm proud of.

Gabby's lucky to have a great teacher for a Daddy. You can imagine all that she'll benefit. Unfortunately, he's going to teach her to be a trouble-maker, too. Right now, the Tennessee/Florida game is on, and Jason has decided that Gabby should learn how to do the Gator chomp. "Wouldn't that be so funny to have her do that when we go back to Grandma Bettye's?!" Ummmmm, Jason....

Don't be STUPID.

Vacation

2006-09-10T20:25:00.000-05:00

The long and winding road tha-at leads to your door... is named I-40... I've driven it before.

Okay, I'll stop piggybacking on the Beatles. Anyway, here's a visual trek through our vacation that really wasn't too long ago but feels like a different lifetime.

First we went to the mountains with Jason's side of the fam. There was much napping, card-playing, and outdoorsing. Jennifer even did a 20+ mile bike ride, and we are talking about real, live mountains. This was no cutesy-pie stroll. After we road the route in our car to check on her, my respect for Jennifer went from immense to hugemongeriffic.

Then the Lady Lutzes split from Daddy Lutz so we could spend another week with family and he could get back to work. Off with a cry - "South we go!" and "Ehh!" You can guess who said what. Rachel met up with us when we got to Oak Ridge. Though short, our visit at each of my grandparents' was sweet. Here's the star of the show with my PawPaw. She really liked his eggs - and who doesn't?! - but my favorite moment was her look of shock when the phone rang. I realize now she'd never heard a real bell. That's sad! Maybe that's not my favorite moment.

And here's the little celebrity with her second cousin, Aaron, who's also holding her third cousin, Tyler. Good luck with that one.

Finally, we made it to Kentucky - our last stop before pivoting toward home. Ahh, Lexington. A strange city it is... It's really old, and yet it has this very compacted, metropolitan feel. Of course, it is growing exponentially. I thought we'd get there and I'd feel better about my parents having moved, but instead I was jealous of the city. I wanted to call it names like "Parent Stealer" and "City of Meanies," but Thumper's momma says that if you can't say anything nice, don't say anything at all. Rachel and I played tennis a few times, we looked at A LOT of houses (and that doesn't begin to describe how many Mom & Dad have seen), and we ate at some great restaurants. When you live in a city that has fast food and one decent chain restaurant, going out for a nice meal is a much bigger deal than for those of you who can order fresh vegetables at any meal that you please. Despite all the killer shopping, the best thing in Lexington was definitely my parents. I loved seeing them with Gabbygirl, and I think I'll sign off now before Ol' Blue Eyes starts crooning "Misty."

Hot & Cold

2006-08-29T19:36:00.000-05:00

Faster than a gas oven, my girl Gabby can warm up to someone or give them the cold shoulder in a matter of seconds. For example: Right now, she's in her crib screaming her head off because she wants to be with me (or so I tell myself.) Yet, it wasn't 30 minutes ago that she was screaming her head off because some weird lady was giving her a bath. The weird lady was me, with my hair pulled into a ponytail. She didn't recognize me with my hair up, and so she didn't know who I was. Twice, when I let my hair down, she stopped screaming and started making her usual "I like you" faces. That kid knows what she wants.

Although it's been a tough couple of last months, seeing this picture reminds me that I enjoyed them anyway. I think it's something to praise God for when you can say that you still enjoyed life during tough times. That's me and Gabrielle in one of the precious moments of togetherness we had right after my foot surgery. (That's the foot + boot and iodine still halfway up my leg.) Let me say that the surgery days were only minor inconveniences, lest you think I'm complaining. But I remember thinking at the time, "This is really nice to have some slow time." So now my challenge is to enjoy life and the Lord during pressure-cooker days. There's so much going on, and with Gabby getting bigger, there's so much more to miss if we don't pay attention!

If we had the digital camera with us, I'd take a before and after shot of the specimen of plant life growing on top of Jason's head. I'm off to cut it right now! [Crowd cheers wildly.] Then I'm going to shave his goatee off! [Crowd riots due to excitement.]

P.S. - For all you who think I'm a big meanie for letting her cry instead of rocking her or laying down with her, you'll be happy to hear that she's already asleep. Say night night! Night night.

Respecting Modern Art

2006-08-21T18:15:00.000-05:00

In the Art Room at one of the schools I work at, The Powers That Be have placed a gigantic sculpture in the corner of the room. It's a modern piece... the kind that makes you ask, "Is it art? What is art?" Actually, it's just a gigantic computer server. U-G-L-Y.

Anyway, this got me thinking... Since I left our digital camera in TN, why not use the computer to create some visual representation of us and our going-ons? And I believe that definitely can be called "modern art." So, I commence.
------------------------------------------

First, let's talk about everyone's hair. Jason's is out of control with a serious goatee. Lauren has a chic new cut, but the highlights are missing from the picture. (My cousins approve... "Blonde is better!") Gabby's getting more.

Accessories: Jason has a kleenex, which we are all in need of. Gabby's nose started running because she's cutting a new tooth, and then the next thing ya know we're all sniffling. I thought I'd be bringing germs home from school, but now I'll be giving them out. Great.

Facial expressions: The artist perhaps has not expressed enough depth in this area, but I believe those Mom and Dad faces are really communicating, "I'm tired and achy." Gabrielle is obviously doing her famous "Look At Me With My Mouth Wide Open" trick.

Notice that all three subjects appear to be happy to be at home after having been apart for a week. (The Lutz Ladies visited Nanna and Grandpa in Kentucky.)

Final comments: Gabrielle's body language says, "I have just learned how to clap, and I think I'm quite the big kid now."

------------------------------------------

Well, I think that'll do it for my art critic days. And ditto for my art-by-computer days. I think I'll send some money to Aunt Ronda for camera shipping costs instead of waiting for my dad to come in September. Great pictures from vacation are definitely more entertaining than this junk. Come home, Camera, come home!

Bad Mood Busters

2006-08-05T21:35:00.000-05:00

Are you having a tough day? Would you like a pat on the back and a hug?
I've got whatcha need, and it's available in digital format: Baby-In-A-Diaper Pictures! I highly recommend clicking on these pictures to get a better look at them.

Now - don't you feel better? That beats a bowl of chicken soup and a foot rub. Maybe.

Just between you and me

2006-08-04T15:17:00.000-05:00

Lauren, where have you been for two weeks?! Good grief. No new blog = cruelty to faithful blog-checkers.

Ummmm, playing Tetris, playing piano for a children's theatre production, and playing with Gabby. Playing.

Well then, I guess you don't have anything interesting to share.

To the contrary, Good Reader! I can share something, if by "interesting" you mean "new Gabby news."

Yeah, that's pretty much what I meant.

Okay, "Mama" is for real. How am I sure she's saying it to me? She only says it when she wants something. When she's unhappy, she calls for me to fix it. Also, she can pull up on just about anything as fast as she wants. Best of all, Gabby enjoys entertaining us with funny faces. My personal favorite is when she opens her mouth as wide as she can, lifts her eyebrows, and looks down her nose at us. This can happen by mimicking us, or just when she's in a good mood.

Wow. That sounds reaaaally cute.

Totally.

So what else is new?

You're just asking that because you have to.

Maybe.

Well, since you asked... Tonight is my mom's last night here. And that's pretty durn sad. On the upside, Jason, Gabrielle, and I are going to the mountains with Jennifer, Linda, and Roger (part of Jason's fam) on Monday. We'll stay there 'til Friday. Then Gabby and I will go visit the new Kentuckians for a few days. So yay!

Oh, that is good! So I haven't talked to you in a while. Let me fill you in on what's new my way...

Sorry. Time to eat! KFC's here. Call me later!

Nanna gets to be a mattress before she leaves.