The Zark Family

For the Grandparents

2010-11-04T19:18:00.000-07:00

Just a head's up for the Grandparents who might be thinking about what to get Aidan for Christmas.

He is REALLY into the show Chuggington right now, which is a cute little show about young trains who are "training" to become big trains. It is an import from the UK and they are JUST now getting toys in the US. In fact, as far as I know, they don't even have the US version of the show on DVD yet although I have been able to get a few episodes on iTunes.

So, anyway, we are going to be getting him a couple Chuggington playsets. They are like the Thomas playsets with the wooden tracks, but they are plastic and look like the Chuggington train yard. We will be getting him probably all three play yards which come with a 'Wilson", "Koko" and "Brewster". And if we get it for him before the 24th, it will come with a free carrying case. But, if you wanted any ideas for what to get Aidan, he would love the rest of the die cast characters. And they are very inexpensive, which I LOVE! SO much cheaper than Thomas. You can only get them at Toys R Us though, so here is the link. Chuggington at Toys R Us

I really can't wait to see his face on Christmas morning! He is gonna FLIP!

A Sampling of My Work

2010-10-21T18:59:00.001-07:00

Yesterday I took Aidan and some friends of ours to the Birmingham Botanical Gardens and took pictures. Here are three of my favorites from yesterday. He really is my most favorite model. When I take pictures of him, I can't help but imagining how handsome he will be when I someday take his senior portraits. He is just so good looking! I am just not sure how we produced him! LOL.

April Zark Photography

2010-10-21T18:45:00.000-07:00

I know it has been a very long time since I last posted. I have been using Facebook to update everyone, but I realize that not everyone has a Facebook. Anyway, I have an announcement to make!

After being asked by my sister in law to photograph her wedding next year, I began researching and offering friends sessions so I can practice. Then my portfolio started to grow and I realized I had a real love for it. Thus began "April Zark Photography"! I really hope to become successful in this business. Man, that would be a dream come true for this stay at home mom!

I had a logo designed and I created a website. And I have 5 photo shoots scheduled right now! It came out of nowhere and has made me feel like I am really contributing with a talent. I always wondered what my talent would be since I grew up being taught that everyone is given one. So, perhaps this is mine?

So, check out my site and if you would like to have portraits taken, give me a call!

Tumblebus

2010-04-24T11:41:00.001-07:00

IMG_0070, originally uploaded by zarkfamily.

Aidan and I have been spending our Wednesday afternoons at the Tuscaloosa Tumblebus. It's a school bus that comes to a local church parking lot and while Aidan goes in for 30 minutes and tumbles, bounces, slides and climbs, I sit in the parking lot with the other moms.

He seems to be doing okay, but he is still a little hesitant to be around people he doesn't know. I think a few more times and he will really start to open up and get excited.

Tell you one thing though, he is going to be sorely disappointed the first time he ever rides a school bus and realizes it doesn't have a trampoline on it!

Rainboots!

2010-04-24T11:33:00.001-07:00

IMG_0069, originally uploaded by zarkfamily.

Aidan will be going to stay with Nanny and Granddaddy in about a month for a few days and Nanny requested that he bring some rain boots so they can stomp around in the creek behind her house. So, after an extensive search for the very best boots, I finally found them!

And I think he likes them!

Photography

2010-04-09T12:24:00.001-07:00

IMG_0010.JPG, originally uploaded by zarkfamily.

I am absolutely HUNGRY for more photography knowledge. My sweet husband found a great deal at Sams for a Canon Rebel XS package, with two lenses, case, card, etc and I can't tell you how proud I am of it. Or how excited I am to learn more and more and MORE.

I am planning to sign up for a photography class through our local Parks and Rec dept. I really hope it is actual DSLR lessons and not "point here, zoom in, push button." I need to learn how to take it out of automatic! I need settings! ISO, aperture, etc... you get my point.

Of course, editing helps a lot. I subscribed to the Flickr program "Picnik" which makes editing simple. While I would like to say I use Photoshop to do incredibly complicated and beautiful editing... I am just as happy with the result I get from Picnik.

Stay tuned for lots more pictures, because I imagine I will be flooding it the more I learn.

Easter 2010

2010-04-04T19:25:00.001-07:00

IMG_9224.JPG, originally uploaded by zarkfamily.

We had fun at Nanny and Granddaddy's house for Easter and as always, Nanny's garden made for beautiful pictures. So, be sure to go to Flickr and see all of them.

Here are two to give you a little idea.

A Spring Sunday

2010-03-28T13:05:00.001-07:00

IMG_9072.JPG, originally uploaded by zarkfamily.

After church and lunch, we went River Walk park so Aidan could run around and I could get some pictures of him in his cute little outfit. (Which, by the way, he will probably hate me for some day. But, it is cute for a two year old!)

Now we are sitting at home with the windows and doors open enjoying a free energy day. I love this time of year because it is pretty outside and our power bill goes WAY down.

What have you done to enjoy this beautiful weekend?

A Haircut and a Smile

2010-03-27T19:44:00.001-07:00

IMG_9050.JPG, originally uploaded by zarkfamily.

I tried REALLY hard to get some pictures of Aidan's new haircut, seriously, I took about 50 pictures. And then something magical happened. HE SMILED FOR THE CAMERA! Nick and I make a great team when it comes to taking pictures of our son. I snap the photos and Nick does the goofiest things to get those smiles. I do believe these were due to a bout of "hiccups" by one of his stuffed animals.

I seriously can not believe how much I love this kid!

Easter Egg Hunt

2010-03-27T16:15:00.001-07:00

IMG_8995.JPG, originally uploaded by zarkfamily.

We went to the second annual Tuscmoms.com Easter egg hunt today. I love this group of families SO much. I have the best time with all the activities we plan. Aidan really enjoyed himself too. He got a few eggs, ate a lot of candy and got to play in a neat playground.

Nick helped him swing by himself for the very first time. He really really enjoyed that. Only fell back once, Nick caught him but he learned he had to hold on and keep himself in it from then on.

After we left the hunt, we had lunch at Chick Fil A and then we got his haircut because he was starting to look really shaggy. The weather is SO awesome today. I love this time of year when you can start sitting outside again. We decided today that the next free weekend we have (probably the one after Easter) we are going to take Aidan on his very first camping trip. Can't wait!!

Spring is Here!

2010-03-27T15:36:00.001-07:00

IMG_8919.JPG, originally uploaded by zarkfamily.

We have really been enjoying the pretty weather and utilizing the back patio quite a bit. Aidan has a t-ball set and a cozy coupe car and lots of room to run and I have a nice breezy place to sit now that we got some patio furniture.

So, any family and friends reading this, head on over to our house and we will have a bbq out back!

Newest Painting

2010-03-11T11:33:00.001-08:00

IMG_8839.JPG, originally uploaded by zarkfamily.

Just wanted to share my newest painting. It may be one of my favorites yet.

A March Update

2010-03-11T11:29:00.001-08:00

IMG_8850.JPG, originally uploaded by zarkfamily.

I made Aidan is first fort yesterday. He had so much fun it...

Which was good since he had already found himself a new playhouse...

But the puppy wanted it back and they didn't share it well...

But the puppy does share really well with the cat....

Big Machines

2010-02-20T16:13:00.001-08:00

IMG_8816.JPG, originally uploaded by zarkfamily.

We took Aidan to the McWane center today to see the Big Machines, or he calls them "TRACKERS!" (tractors). He loved the ones with steering wheels best, and he would really drive those "TRACKERS!" making lots of funny little boy car noises.

We got a membership to the McWane center a few weeks ago and so far we are really loving spending time there. It's quite a drive but he enjoys playing in the "Itty Bitty Magic City", where there are lots of cars to drive and blocks to build with. And if you go and look at the rest of the pictures on Flickr, you'll see that Nick enjoys playing with blocks too. :)

My Growing Baby

2010-02-10T19:01:00.001-08:00

5 Weeks, originally uploaded by zarkfamily.

Aidan's 2nd Birthday

2010-02-10T18:52:00.001-08:00

0001, originally uploaded by zarkfamily.

We went today and got some pictures taken for Aidan's 2nd birthday. He had a lot of fun with the photographer and the shirt Ashley made for him is so perfect. We are having his party this Saturday, and he is gonna have lots of friends over. He has absolutely no concept of what a birthday is, he is just enjoying all the attention he keeps getting.

Aidan's Grammy (my mom) is coming in tomorrow to stay with us for a while. She was not originally planning to visit for his birthday, but my Papa Albert (great-grandfather) died yesterday so she is flying in for the funeral. So, Aidan will not be lacking in attention, that is for sure.

So, I can see how age 2 is going to be exhausting, but I don't think I can call it "terrible". I may eat my words, but he is still such a sweet boy. Sure, he is full of energy and a little stubborn, but I think I will save "terrible" for his teens.

Crib Update

2010-01-04T13:34:00.000-08:00

Well, they are going to refund the money that was spent on the crib and they requested we send the part that broke back for testing. She said it was out of its warranty period but that she would extend it. I am thankful for that, but Aidan is still sleeping in a pack and play and we have to buy a new crib now. At least we are getting the money back, but you know how long things like that take. For our next baby, I am going to spend the 300-400 dollars for one of those really sturdy hardwood cribs, in case he or she is as superman strong and his/her brother.

Crib Problems

2010-01-04T12:41:00.001-08:00

Aidan broke another slat in his crib yesterday. We were already waiting for the one bed side to come in from the manufacturer and we let him sleep in it one night and he broke the back side now. I realize that most children probably don't get as angry and dramatic as Aidan does at bedtime, but still... He is less than 25 pounds and he broke out a bed slat, this time with his head! He shouldn't be able to do that!

I am in contact with the manufacturer again, hoping to get a whole new crib, but who knows. He is not ready for a big boy yet, so either they send us a new one or he will just have to keep sleeping in a pack and play. They wanted pictures, so I thought I would post one here on my blog as well.

Pretty ridiculous isn't it?

-- Post From My iPhone

New Years Eve

2010-01-01T22:32:00.001-08:00

LH18, originally uploaded by zarkfamily.

Don't have a whole lot to say about this entry, the pictures really say it all. We spent New Years Eve at Lee and Heathers, stayed out entirely too late and spent today recovering. It was fun, though. A good way to bring in the New Year.

Ashtyn going in for her New Years kiss:

Do you want a ticket to the GUN SHOW? Or a knuckle sandwich?

We flipped through every channel trying to find one counting down to the Central Time Zones midnight and this was all we could find. Lame!

Hope everyone who reads my blog enjoys 2010, have a blessed and happy new year!

Zark Family Christmas

2010-01-01T22:05:00.001-08:00

IMG_0831, originally uploaded by zarkfamily.

The day after Christmas we went over to Nick's parents house and had our family Christmas there. It made for lots of good pictures and even better times. Aidan REALLY loves his cousins. It's his way of having older siblings since I can't exactly travel back and time and do that myself. He follows them around, doing everything they do smiling and giggling the entire time.

Christmas was definitely fun this year, shame its over. Although I am looking forward to finally taking down my Christmas decorations.

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-25T10:48:00.001-08:00

IMG_0804, originally uploaded by zarkfamily.

Aidan is so excited about all his presents this morning. We had a hard time pulling him away from his train table long enough to eat breakfast, and he has spent all of the rest of the morning zooming trains and cars down the tracks. Nanny and Granddaddy gave him his very first tricycle and Uncle Andy gave him a big ole' Tonka truck that he can actually sit in.

Nick and I are extremely blessed to not only have such a great kid, but we had such a peaceful Christmas. We had lovely guests, really good food, and our house is actually clean! Dishes done, trash thrown away, etc. There is nothing looming over our heads to get done, just a peaceful afternoon that will more than likely include a nap.

We hope you all had a very Merry Christmas!

New Camera

2009-12-22T10:58:00.001-08:00

IMG_0688, originally uploaded by zarkfamily.

My uncle gave me his old digital SLR camera for Christmas and I have been practicing and trying to learn how to use it. Of course Aidan has been my model for most of my pictures. This morning at breakfast I was just snapping away and I caught this gem. I think it really showcases Aidan's feelings about having his poptart eating interrupted by flash bulbs and mommy shouting "CHEEEEESE!"

Santa

2009-12-15T20:29:00.001-08:00

We took Aidan to see Santa yesterday. He did really well, and we even got a smile after Nick acted like what can only be described as Jerry Lewis on crack to get any kind of reaction from him.

This is actually a picture of a picture, so it's a little blurry.

-- Post From My iPhone

A Friend

2009-12-08T00:42:00.001-08:00

I lost a friend last week. Jody was in her early 40's, had a 5 year old son and she was an elementary school teacher... and she just never woke up. She was a beautiful person who never met a stranger. She was always good for a laugh and a big smile. Jody was in my book club and one of the best things about her was she always showed so much interest in what you were saying. It could have been the stupidest thought ever and she would have hung on every word just so you would feel good about yourself. She was just so KIND. And she just didn't wake up.

Her death has had me in such turmoil this week. I am sad, angry, and I have uttered the words, "it's just not FAIR" more than once. But a friend of hers, who gave her eulogy Sunday, requested that we "pay it forward" in Jody's honor. Treat others as Jody treated us. So, I will attempt to do that. I need to get past my anger and sadness though, because this is not about me. It feels wrong to hear someone tell me, "I am sorry for your loss" because it is not my loss... A world without Jody is everyones loss.

From left to right: Me, Jennifer and Jody.

-- Post From My iPhone

Professional Pictures

2009-12-03T11:54:00.001-08:00

44, originally uploaded by zarkfamily.

We got some professional pictures made last weekend and I just got the proofs today. I can not tell you how much I am IN LOVE with these pictures. This woman is amazing and I love everything she did. She even managed to make me look kind of good. And she was reasonably priced too which made it even better.

Click the Flickr link to see some more of my favorites. I don't have them all up there yet because I had to print-screen off her site until she posts them on Facebook for me. But, I think the 9 or so up there are my favorites. When I get the rest I will post them again.

www.amypphotography.com

Christmas Cocktail

2009-11-17T21:27:00.001-08:00

Christmas Cocktail, originally uploaded by zarkfamily.

One of my all time favorite things to do is go to Sips N Strokes and paint masterpieces that I really never knew were possible. I really didn't think I was very talented at anything until this past year when I started opening my mind to the possibility that I could be good at art. This is my third painting and I love it more every time I go. I even have two more planned in December.

So, this is my "Christmastini", although I think I will be leaving it up all year and not just Christmas time. I just love staring at it, thinking, "I really can not believe I did that."

It's Going to be a Choo Choo Christmas.

2009-11-11T12:16:00.001-08:00

train table, originally uploaded by zarkfamily.

Aidan has discovered "choo-choo's" The kid pretty much loves anything with wheels and since he can differentiate between cars, trucks and choo-choos, he has gotten even more excited. Nick and I have been wanting to get Aidan a train table for a while, and I found this one that I am very excited about. There are no tracks to put together (meaning no tracks strewn around my house being stepped on). And this one has a table top that can be put on it to make it a snack or art table. And all the little trains and cars can be stored inside of it.

So, along with it I guess we are going to buy him some little Thomas trains. Not so sure about little cars, because kids that still put things in their mouths aren't supposed to have Hot Wheels. I didn't know that until someone exclaimed, "YOU AREN'T GIVING HIM HOT WHEELS ARE YOU??" Well... lol, I guess not.

I am really looking forward to Christmas this year. He may not understand Santa, but he will be surprised and excited to see his new toys on Christmas morning and he is going to LOVE all the Christmas lights. However, keeping him from climbing the tree is going to be a HUGE task. Doesn't make me any less excited though, I really can't wait! Christmas is meant for kids and it just brings back all the special for me.

A Fun Fall Day

2009-11-02T09:13:00.001-08:00

100_3934, originally uploaded by zarkfamily.

Sunday we spent a lovely afternoon at a fall festival at a local church. Aidan had so much fun, he didn't want to go home. His favorite parts were the snow-cones, the tractor rides, and the inflatable trampoline. He loved that trampoline SO much, he kept going back to it as often as he could. He would jump up and do what we call his "butt fall". Nick got some really cool mid-air pictures of it, you should go to the Flickr page and check it out.

And this picture is for my sister-in-law Heather as she bought Aidan this SUPER cute pirate pumpkin outfit. It was so cute on him and now it is covered in candy... so we are getting all the stains out and then he will wear it again, because you can turn it inside out and it has a Christmas theme!

Halloween

2009-11-02T09:08:00.001-08:00

100_3908, originally uploaded by zarkfamily.

We went to Jennifer and Jason's house for a fun filled Halloween party Saturday night. Then we went trick or treating in their neighborhood. It was actually the first time I had done it since I was 5, so it was especially exciting for me. :) Aidan slowly got the hang out it, even though he tried to actually go in to every house we went to. I guess since they were giving him candy, he wanted to hang out with them. We might want to try and quell that behavior soon. :-p

It was really fun though, and since Aidan was dressed as a penguin, we decided to make our own penguin costumes to match him. Nick wore the head of Aidan's costume since Aidan refused to wear it, but enjoyed it because it kept his head warm. It was just a really fun time, I am already looking forward to next year!!

Now What?

2009-10-28T12:02:00.001-07:00

100_3863, originally uploaded by zarkfamily.

This was in the batch I posted last night, but I thought it deserved its own blog post. After we stripped his clothes off he just sat down in front of the pumpkins and made this face like, "I'm naked, now what?" He is such an expressive kid.

Today we were watching the show "So You Think You Can Dance" and there was a partner team doing the foxtrot. Aidan walked up to me, grabbed one of my fingers and pulled me to my feet (okay, with a little help) and then proceeded to dance around me. He wanted to dance like the people on TV! Love him SO much!

My First Pumpkin Carving

2009-10-27T20:38:00.001-07:00

100_3892, originally uploaded by zarkfamily.

So, believe it or not, I have never carved pumpkins. Never in my entire life have I stuck my hand in the belly of a gourd and pulled out its guts... until tonight. Nick brought home some pumpkins and I got to experience a good old family tradition.

We stripped Aidan in case he wanted to get down and dirty in pumpkin guts, but alas... he is far too dainty for that mess. But, Nick and I got elbow deep in it and I am quite proud of how my first carved pumpkin turned out.

Uh Oh

2009-10-23T21:55:00.001-07:00

100_3832, originally uploaded by zarkfamily.

Aidan apparently REALLY didn't want to nap today. We think he kicked it out, at least we are hoping he did it with his foot and not his head. Sigh.... Nick put it back together with some liquid nail, and if it holds I guess we will let him keep sleeping in it, for now he is asleep in his Pack and Play. If it doesn't hold, I guess we are going to have to get a new crib. If he were older I would go ahead and get him his big boy bed, but I just don't think he will understand that he has to stay in it at bedtime. So, I would rather spend a couple more hundred bucks on a new crib than fight with him to keep him in bed at night.

Cruise Pictures

2009-10-19T22:06:00.003-07:00

100_3629, originally uploaded by zarkfamily.

We enjoyed our cruise SO much. We got back a little under a week ago, but I am just not getting the pictures uploaded to Flickr. I have had them on Facebook, so if we are friends there, you have seen them but if not, then check them out from the beginning, the captions tell the story of what we did.

Cruising was really amazing, it is most definitely the best way to travel. It is a premade vacation with no thinking needed. You just board and have fun and everything else is taken care of for you. We are officially hooked would like to go again soon.

A Car Fanatic

2009-10-05T13:15:00.001-07:00

100_3561, originally uploaded by zarkfamily.

Aidan loves to go to the mall and ride in the cars. It's like his tiny little dream come true, and he prefers to steer with BOTH wheels.

Daredevil

2009-10-05T13:13:00.001-07:00

100_3558, originally uploaded by zarkfamily.

If he can find something to climb, then he will climb it.

The Fair

2009-10-05T13:12:00.001-07:00

100_3500, originally uploaded by zarkfamily.

We had lots of fun at the fair last week. Aidan rode a pony, fed baby goats, watched monkeys do tricks and ride on dogs, rode on the merry-go-round, and ate lots of junk food. His favorite part was watching the helicopter take off and land. He could have sat there all night, eating cotton candy and watching the helicopter.

Aidan on the Phone

2009-09-20T21:30:00.000-07:00

You should know that we do not have a home phone number so that phone is not attached to a phone line. So, no... he did not just call Japan. His dad also paces when he talks, so you can see full Nick mimicking going on here.

My Top Gun

2009-09-12T19:13:00.001-07:00

100_3454, originally uploaded by zarkfamily.

Aidan and I went to check out a Children's consignment sale today and got some really cool deals. My favorite is this Kenneth Cole leather motorcycle jacket. He is going to be so styling this winter, it is just SO cute. Of course, like everything else, it is too big for him and I just hope that he gets a little bigger before it gets cold.

Of course, trying on clothes and taking pictures is definitely not Aidan's favorite thing to do, but I got this awesome shot because of it. My little drama queen.

Some Videos

2009-09-07T18:53:00.000-07:00

While playing outside, Aidan falls on his butt and can't stand up again because he won't touch the grass with his hands. If you watch the first minute of it, you get the point, but I uploaded the whole thing so you can see how it finally plays out. My boy, he is so dainty!

Nick has taught Aidan how to be dramatic when he falls down. They are so funny together!

Labor Day/ Lots of Pictures

2009-09-07T17:50:00.001-07:00

I am going to do things a little different today, because sometimes I think maybe people don't actually click the link to see the rest. So here are lots and lots of pictures.

Aidan found a toy to play with that only cost me as much as diapers cost.

In deep thought, probably considering how he can solve the turmoil in the Middle East.

Okay, back to being silly.

Listening to his daddy telling him that he will show him how it is done.

Getting out to give Daddy a try.

Uhh Nick, there is something wrong with this situation.

Aidan just isn't sure what to think

Today we got Aidan an outdoor climber, and he has had so much fun with it!

He loves everything with a steering wheel.

He is not real sure how to get down.

Probably contemplating the physics of his weight vs speed vs the slide or some such stuff that his Daddy passed on with his genes.

Hey old man, can you give me a hand here?

Promise to catch me??

And that is how it's done!

Getting adventurous now!

Such a good looking kid.

Right before this we got on to him for trying to play in the firepit. So, he runs off and Nick says (in Aidan's voice), "Fine! I will run away and find someone that APPRECIATES little kids that get into s***!" LOL forever and ever.

We also went swimming today and tried to get some ice cream from the ice cream truck, but he went zooming through the neighborhood like he was in the projects. So, no push pop for us.

Fall Clothes

2009-09-04T10:56:00.001-07:00

100_3376, originally uploaded by zarkfamily.

I recently picked up some Fall type clothes for Aidan at a consignment sale and I just LOVE them. Little boys are just so darn cute in blue jeans and nice t-shirts. He looks like a tiny little man. You will rarely see Aidan in a jumper or anything like that because I love jeans on him so much, I bought him 5 pairs!

Bucket Head

2009-09-03T13:48:00.001-07:00

100_3354, originally uploaded by zarkfamily.

Aidan's Gigi gave him a bucket from her recent beach trip, and he has taken to playing with it in a rather funny way.

Baby Movie Maker

2009-09-03T13:43:00.001-07:00

Baby Movie Maker, originally uploaded by zarkfamily.

Aidan took the camera out of my hands and made his own little movie.

Sneeze Laughing.

2009-09-03T12:48:00.001-07:00

Sneeze Laughing., originally uploaded by zarkfamily.

Nick found a new way to make Aidan laugh.

Mr. Blue Eyes

2009-08-23T01:29:00.001-07:00

100_3326, originally uploaded by zarkfamily.

Not much happened today, but I did take Aidan outside to play. He had a pretty good time until this very moment in this picture. What you see is a beautiful boy with gorgeous blue eyes. What you don't see is the fact that he is stuck. He fell down and rather than put his hands down in the grass to stand up he just sat there and whined. So, I sat down next to him to show him it was okay, but instead of chilling with me, he just used me to stand up so he wouldn't get "dirty" and ran off to play, leaving me sitting in the grass by myself.

Time for an Aidan Update

2009-08-21T23:14:00.001-07:00

100_3313, originally uploaded by zarkfamily.

I know it has been a while since I posted pictures, but truth be told... I don't take as many as I used to. He doesn't change in appearance as rapidly as he used to and now his personality changes are a little harder to capture on film. However, it seems like everyday he accomplishes something new. There is always a new word or activity. My favorite, although I may regret this later, is his declaration of "Cut it out!" In Aidan language, though, it sounds like "KUHEHHOWWW!" But, we are definitely at that age where we need to watch what we say and do because he will mimic all of it.

Nick and I are excited to announce that we are finally going to take a honeymoon! We are going on a cruise to the Caribbean in October and I live, breathe, eat and drink cruising right now. We are going without the little man though. He is going to be staying with my grandparents for a week and I am so nervous that I am going to be completely homesick for him while we are gone. But, I think we are going to become addicted to cruising and will probably take another one next year and take him with us. Once he is two, they will take him in "Camp Carnival" where he can play with other kids and do fun activities while we do things he can't go to.

That is really about all going on with us right now. Aidan plays a lot, I try to keep him from destroying the house, and Nick works. But, I can't ever really be unhappy when I look at that big cheesy grin.

You never know how good you have it, until you peek into someone else's life...

2009-08-15T14:32:00.000-07:00

This is for my family, because no matter what you think of the chaos of our family get-togethers, we will NEVER have it this bad. And I don't know about you, but I would be taking Nick and Aidan to the local Denny's for Thanksgiving dinner instead.

From: Awkward Family Photos.

Awkward Family Story: The Thanksgiving Letter

From: Marney

As you all know a fabulous Thanksgiving Dinner does not make itself. I need to ask each of you to help by bringing something to complete the meal. I truly appreciate your offers to assist with the meal preparation.

Now, while I do have quite a sense of humor and joke around all the time, I COULD NOT BE MORE SERIOUS when I am providing you with your Thanksgiving instructions and orders. I am very particular, so please perform your task EXACTLY as I have requested and read your portion very carefully. If I ask you to bring your offering in a container that has a lid, bring your offering in a container WITH A LID, NOT ALUMINUM FOIL! If I ask you to bring a serving spoon for your dish, BRING A SERVING SPOON, NOT A SOUP SPOON! And please do not forget anything.

All food that is to be cooked should already be prepared, bring it hot and ready to serve, warm or room temp. These are your ONLY THREE options. Anything meant to be served cold should, of course, already be cold.

HJB—Dinner wine

The Mike Byron Family
1. Turnips in a casserole with a lid and a serving spoon. Please do not fill the casserole all the way up to the top, it gets too messy. I know this may come as a bit of a surprise to you, but most of us hate turnips so don’t feel like you a have to feed an army.
2. Two half gallons of ice cream, one must be VANILLA, I don’t care what the other one is. No store brands please. I did see an ad this morning for Hagan Daz Peppermint Bark Ice Cream, yum!! (no pressure here, though).
3. Toppings for the ice cream.
4. A case of bottled water, NOT gallons, any brand is ok.

The Bob Byron Family
1. Green beans or asparagus (not both) in a casserole with a lid and a serving spoon. If you are making the green beans, please prepare FOUR pounds, if you are making asparagus please prepare FIVE pounds. It is up to you how you wish to prepare them, no soupy sauces, no cheese (you know how Mike is), a light sprinkling of toasted nuts, or pancetta, or some EVOO would be a nice way to jazz them up.
2. A case of beer of your choice (I have Coors Light and Corona) or a bottle of clos du bois chardonnay (you will have to let me know which you will bring prior to 11/22).

The Lisa Byron Chesterford Family
1. Lisa as a married woman you are now required to contribute at the adult level. You can bring an hors d’ouvres. A few helpful hints/suggestions. Keep it very light, and non-filling, NO COCKTAIL SAUCE, no beans of any kind. I think your best bet would be a platter of fresh veggies and dip. Not a huge platter mind you (i.e., not the plastic platter from the supermarket).

The Michelle Bobble Family
1. Stuffing in a casserole with a serving spoon. Please make the stuffing sans meat.
2. 2.5-3 qts. of mashed squash in a casserole with a lid and serving spoon
3. Proscuitto pin wheel - please stick to the recipe, no need to bring a plate.
4. A pie knife

The June Davis Family
1. 15 LBS of mashed potatoes in a casserole with a serving spoon. Please do not use the over-size blue serving dish you used last year. Because you are making such a large batch you can do one of two things: put half the mash in a regulation size casserole with lid and put the other half in a plastic container and we can just replenish with that or use two regulation size casserole dishes with lids. Only one serving spoon is needed.
2. A bottle of clos du bois chardonnay

The Amy Misto Family (why do I even bother she will never read this)
1. A pumpkin pie in a pie dish (please use my silver palate recipe) no knife needed.
2. An apple pie in a pie dish, you can use your own recipe, no knife needed.

Looking forward to the 28th!!

Marney

I love at the end how she says, "why do I even bother she will never read this"... ahhh, passive aggressiveness at its very finest. Now, go hug a family member and tell them, "Thank you for not being Marney".

Contest Entry

2009-07-28T18:46:00.001-07:00

100_2852, originally uploaded by zarkfamily.

I am blogging this older picture because I am entering a contest where I can win a gift card for more precious outfits like the one Aidan is wearing here. Jenn over at Livi's Stitches.

So, check her out or just stare at how cute my kid is. :)

You can see the contest at Mommy Works.

A Really Fun Day in Cullman

2009-07-22T00:35:00.001-07:00

100_3225, originally uploaded by zarkfamily.

We went up to Cullman today to visit with my grandparents and to play at the new Aquatic Center water park in town. We had such a good time! We got to spend the day with family, had a great visit with my great-grandmother at her nursing home, Aidan was sweet and funny to strangers instead of tortured and crying. And then we LOVED to water park. What a great place! Aidan actually enjoyed himself when he wasn't cold. There was one point where we had to strip him and wrap him in a towel because his lips turned blue and he was shaking. But, after he warmed up, he went right back into the kiddie pool and had even more fun with his daddy. We only left because it started to storm.

Then, my favorite restaurant (Johnny's BBQ) for dinner and a neat chat on the back porch. It was quaint and fun and just an all around good day. I also took over 60 pictures and some video which I will get around to uploading eventually.

Over Prepared

2009-07-06T22:31:00.001-07:00

100_3173, originally uploaded by zarkfamily.

We went swimming yesterday, and if there is one thing that freaks me out it is the possibility of Aidan getting a sunburn. I have seen what it can do to Nick, and it is not pleasant. So... I call this photo, "Mommy is over prepared".

Two New Words

2009-07-06T22:25:00.001-07:00

Car and Bye, originally uploaded by zarkfamily.

Forgive my messy living room, his favorite game is called "throw the toy".

Happy Fathers Day

2009-06-21T13:20:00.001-07:00

100_3130, originally uploaded by zarkfamily.

I believe that my son was blessed to have the best father in the whole world. And I also believe that he will grow up to be a good man who will in turn become the second best father in the whole world. What a lucky little guy to know such a good fatherly influence.

Florida Trip

2009-06-21T13:18:00.001-07:00

100_3124, originally uploaded by zarkfamily.

We are currently in Ft. Myers, FL visiting my mom. We have had a lot of fun so far, the first day we went kayaking down the Estero river. That was really neat, but we used a non-waterproof sunscreen, so... we are all fried. Nick's chest is so splotchy that he looks like he picked up some flesh-eating disease. Yesterday, we went down to Ft. Myers beach to take some pictures and have dinner. We got some pretty cute ones of Aidan although he is really becoming a beast to photograph. He won't sit still or smile for anything. I miss those big toothless grins he used to have.

But, this picture makes up for it. His personality really comes through in this picture. I love my kiddo.

Is This MY Kid?

2009-06-12T00:19:00.001-07:00

100_3073, originally uploaded by zarkfamily.

I walked out of the room for two minutes and came back to this! What is it they say about kids imitating adults. Should I laugh or be disturbed. LOL. What a crazy kid. You would never know that he has two incredibly nerdy parents.

Sips N Strokes

2009-06-06T21:47:00.001-07:00

100_3071, originally uploaded by zarkfamily.

I went to Sips N Strokes tonight, and it is seriously one of the most fun things I have ever done in my life. It is a class, everyone painting the same painting, and you come home with a masterpiece. I am so in love!

Here is my angel that I painted, she is going to watch over my guest bathroom downstairs. :) I actually plan to go back next week, and then again next month probably. This is by far my new favorite hobby.

Computer Genius

2009-06-04T00:48:00.001-07:00

Computer Genius, originally uploaded by zarkfamily.

Look at awesome my boys are! I got some new computer hardware for my tower and here are my genius's putting it together.

Oh, little mini-Nick. So cute.

Happy Mothers Day

2009-05-10T21:42:00.001-07:00

100_3061, originally uploaded by zarkfamily.

We had a nice day today. Woke up early and went to church and Aidan got to sit in big church with us because we had his baby dedication. It was really beautiful and a pleasant family moment. Nick's dad took pictures of that, so I will post them when I get them. But, then afterward we had lunch with Nick's family and went home for a nice long nap.

I woke up to a sweet homemade card made by Nick and Aidan and a nice clean kitchen. Then Nick made me cupcakes which Aidan promptly devoured.

We also called Grammy (left a message) and Nanny to tell them Happy Mothers Day, and we got to skype with Nanny and show her how well Aidan is walking now. He also showed them his precious teeth with his funny smile and he said "car" for the a few times as well.

Hope everyone had a nice day, back to the grind tomorrow!

Aidan's First Haircut

2009-05-07T19:51:00.001-07:00

100_3034, originally uploaded by zarkfamily.

My sweet boy got his first haircut today. And he looks so handsome now. He was okay with the whole process except whenever she got near his ears. And, I actually didn't cry. I didn't even feel like I wanted to cry, I was just excited and took lots of pictures.

Aidan Needs A Haircut

2009-05-04T14:38:00.001-07:00

100_3009, originally uploaded by zarkfamily.

I was hoping that maybe my little boy would have cute blond curls that wouldn't require a haircut until he was like two or so, but alas... it has turned into a messy little mullet. So, our little boy will be getting his first hair cut this week, just in time for him to be introduced to our church. Look at that crazy mop of hair... awww, I am not sure I am ready for this.

Baby Dedication

2009-05-02T12:49:00.001-07:00

Dedication Invite, originally uploaded by zarkfamily.

Birthday Party

2009-04-25T21:35:00.001-07:00

100_2968, originally uploaded by zarkfamily.

We went to All Fired Up and painted for my birthday tonight. Then after we went to a Mexican restaurant for dinner. It was lots of fun, I painted a utensil holder to go with my teal/brown serving set that I am working on. And Nick painted the cutest little turtle to give to Aidan. That little boy will have so many painted ceramics by the time he grows up.

Nick made me some OMG yummy strawberry cupcakes for my birthday and they are already gone. People loved them. He has been such a wonderful husband today, he has taken care of everything and in such good spirits. He and Aidan are the best birthday presents I can get, for sure!

Silly Aidan

2009-04-21T14:00:00.001-07:00

Silly Aidan, originally uploaded by zarkfamily.

Here is a short video just showing some of the facets of Aidan's funny personality.

I let him feed himself a little bit at lunch today, which was fun. It will also explain why his hair looks so crusty in the video. :)

Pampered Chef Spread at a Premier Jewelry Party

2009-04-21T13:51:00.001-07:00

000_0164, originally uploaded by zarkfamily.

I had a Premier Jewelry party at my house this past weekend and I used it as a chance to practice several of my Pampered Chef recipes that I haven't done before. Oh My Goodness, they turned out SO GOOD. The cups in the front are white chocolate mousse cups. To the left side is bread and an oil/ sun dried tomato dipping seasoning. Behind that is a greek cheese torta that has several different kinds of cheese with sun dried tomatoes and spinach. Next is a hot pizza dip which was probably the hit of the party. It is YUMMY. The rest was cheese/crackers/chocolates/fruit. If you want any of the recipes, please let me know. :) And if you want me to come to your home and cook one of them for you and your friends, I will be happy to do that as well!

The Joys of a Toddler

2009-04-16T12:40:00.001-07:00

100_2930, originally uploaded by zarkfamily.

I have been trying to capture Aidan in those situations where he really shows his personality. This little man is constantly in everything, and he bounces off the walls. He climbs on things then gets scared that he can't get down. Of course, I would rather him scream for help than to suddenly get brave and start jumping head first off these places.

He is so silly, though. I really love this age. He has personality and so much character. And he is starting to get lovey again, so he will give hugs and kisses, which always make me a very happy mommy.

Nanny Blog

2009-04-15T13:33:00.000-07:00

My grandmother has created a blog pertaining specifically to caring for my 96 year old great-grandmother who has dementia. She just started today, but so far I am really enjoying reading what she has to say. If any of you are interested, you can go to http://agingparentdilusions.blogspot.com/

And now, I have to go rescue my toddler who has once more climbed on top of something he is too scared to climb off of.

Easter Sunday

2009-04-12T12:18:00.001-07:00

100_2877, originally uploaded by zarkfamily.

After church today (which was fantastic and uplifting), we went to the Cypress Inn for lunch and some pictures by the river. We got several really good shots, but trying to get any of him by himself was difficult as usual. Someday I will get him okay with grass, even if that means we will have to deal with a few hundred meltdowns along the way.

After he takes his nap, we are gonna take him outside and maybe try and get a few more. But, this time we will take a blanket! :)

Target Playdate

2009-04-11T20:49:00.001-07:00

img_0097, originally uploaded by zarkfamily.

Ashley and I took the kids to Target today so the Easter Bunny could get some shopping done. Wow, that was something else. We might should have gotten two buggies, because these kids were all over each other and Aidan would get so upset if Ashtyn touched him. And she is such a loving little thing, there is no keeping her hands off him. So, she would hang on him, he would scream and swipe at her. He even tried to head butt her off once (see pictures for proof of that one).

He is becoming SUCH A HANDFUL. I think I spend just about all day saying "No!" and I don't think he knows his name is just "Aidan'. I am pretty sure that he will grow up thinking that he should be called "AIDAN NICHOLAS YOU GET DOWN FROM THERE" at all times. We have an antique school desk in our living room that has been passed down through the generations. I looked up this morning to find him squatting on top of it, no doubt about to jump head first from it at any minute.

Check the Flickr pictures for a picture of his Easter Bunny haul. The candy is mine though, I am not sharing my chocolate with Aidan. He has enough energy as is!

Spring Is Here

2009-04-11T10:46:00.001-07:00

100_2787, originally uploaded by zarkfamily.

On Thursday, we went to the playground to get some sunshine. Aidan wasn't too thrilled with most of the equipment. Give him a steering wheel, though, and he is happy as a clam. Slide him down a slide... he has a melt down and is probably traumatized for life. One step at a time I guess.

Yesterday, we went to the pool for the first time this summer. It was GLORIOUS. The water is heated so it was like a warm bath. There was sunshine and floating and relaxing. At first, Aidan didn't like the pool either. He is pretty much scared of anything new ever until you convince him it is ok. But, after some milk in his float, he got the hang of the relaxing thing and was soon floating around the pool like a pro. He was so relaxed, if I didn't know better, I would have sworn he was drunk.

See:

And look at the other pictures on the Flickr site as well to see proof that his hair is finally starting to curl. I am super excited about that. Now, the Easter Bunny needs to get her furry white cottontail to Target pronto. And Aidan needs shoes to wear with his outfit tomorrow. Expect lots of great pictures to come. :)

Testing 123

2009-04-09T04:28:00.000-07:00

Trying out a new blogger app for my iPhone. Hopefully this will allow me to blog on the go so you never miss a minute of excitement in the Zark household.

I am really craving some sunshine. So I have solemly sworn that I will take my family outside today. I think I will pack us up a picnic and we will walk across the street to the playground at lunch. It is time for the winter funk to be over, I am ready for Spring!

I will be sure to return later today with lots of pictures of Aidan playing on the playground.

-- Post From My iPhone

Nanny's Tile

2009-04-08T17:05:00.001-07:00

100_2784, originally uploaded by zarkfamily.

I finally went to All Fired Up today and picked up the tile that Nanny painted when she came to visit me last month. She is painting tiles for times/events in her life that mean things to her. This one depicts me and her painting at AFU. The last one she did is of her and her girlfriends at the beach. It's such a neat idea. Since she was going for "whimsical" when she painted, I decided to go with whimsy as well, and painted a mug for Nick:

Excited by a MT Dew Bottle

2009-04-05T14:49:00.001-07:00

Excited by a Dew Bottle, originally uploaded by zarkfamily.

We spent the night at my grandparents house last week, and as usual, Aidan found a way to entertain himself.

Farmer Aidan

2009-04-05T09:37:00.001-07:00

Farmer Aidan, originally uploaded by zarkfamily.

Aidan stayed with his Gigi and Grandpa yesterday while I went to a Pampered Chef party. I hear he had lots of fun and got to ride on the tractor. The fun part must be true, because when I picked him up, I don't think I have ever seen him so wired and bouncy. He definitely enjoyed himself!

Walking With Dinosaurs

2009-04-04T01:28:00.001-07:00

100_2775, originally uploaded by zarkfamily.

We went to see "Walking With Dinosaurs" tonight, sans Aidan. He would have been so scared with all the roaring. My big kid though, Nick, really enjoyed it. Lots of pictures up on Flickr and a few videos coming tomorrow.

New PJs

2009-03-29T21:36:00.001-07:00

100_2687, originally uploaded by zarkfamily.

Last post today, I promise. Aidan got some new PJs and tonight was our first night to try them out. They are so stinking cute on him, I LOVE them!

Easter Egg Hunt

2009-03-29T21:16:00.001-07:00

100_2667, originally uploaded by zarkfamily.

We went on a Tuscmoms.com Easter egg hunt today and lots of fun seeing all our friends. Aidan didn't really get the whole concept and any time he touched the grass with his hands he would scream. No grass for my baby. Mainly he just enjoyed watching the other kids play because playing with them would have have required him to let go of his daddy, and he wasn't going to do that. I think he must not have gotten a good nap before hand, because he was close to a melt down the whole time, but after a while he got a hang on the commotion and started playing with the equipment with his daddy.

He is Starting Early

2009-03-29T21:08:00.001-07:00

100_2684, originally uploaded by zarkfamily.

Aidan is learning to drive early, thanks to his daddy. Car's will definitely be in this child's future! Here he is at the park during his first lesson.

I LOVE this bed: Little Tikes Sports Car Twin. Aidan loves cars so much that Nick and I really want to get him a race car bed for when he is done with the crib and this one uses a twin mattress instead so he could use it til he thinks he is too cool for it (like, maybe 12 or so?) I like that idea so much more than getting a toddler bed that he will only use for a short amount of time.

Then we can get him the tool chest dresser that matches and do his whole room up in a car theme. This kid loves car so much, he has been making engine noises since he was 8 months old. "Brvroooooooooom".

Of course, he is no where near ready for a toddler bed. I am not sure if he could sleep without the bars to hold him in, lol. I think it will be at least another year of crib use before we get him a new bed, but when we do, I hope this one is still available.

Are You In Jail... Or Am I?

2009-03-23T10:27:00.001-07:00

100_2666, originally uploaded by zarkfamily.

You can't see it in the picture, but every time Trixie let Aidan touch him, he giggled like he was being tickled. Super cute!

Black and Blue

2009-03-22T21:02:00.001-07:00

BlackBlue, originally uploaded by zarkfamily.

I am in an online photo contest and one of our most recent entries was the theme "black and blue". This was my entry. I did what I could with the camera we have, but I hope it holds up next to those people who have expensive SLR cameras. Someday I will save my money for one of those and then once I do, I will also take a class at the local jr college to get some technique as well. I am by no means going to become a professional photographer, but it sure would be nice to take Aidan's pictures myself rather than ever have to go to a studio again.

Tiny Hand and Foot Prints

2009-03-07T23:39:00.001-08:00

img_0065, originally uploaded by zarkfamily.

We went to Cottontail Village today. It's an arts and crafts fair that comes to Birmingham every year. Aidan really racked up this year with a new baby rocker and a GIANT stuffed turtle. But, my favorite purchase was at the "Patty Cakes" booth. We got Aidan's hand and foot molded and then they will immortalize those tiny hand and foot prints forever. These are an example of what we will get in about 8 weeks. I can't WAIT to see them!

Ignore the quality of most of the pictures, they were taken with my phone. :)

Lawyer Baby

2009-03-07T00:44:00.000-08:00

If Aidan doesn't become a race car driver with his early love of cars, he will be a lawyer. Check out all the arguing he does already! I can clearly hear him say, "Ladies and Gentleman of the Jury..." in there somewhere!

Redecorating

2009-03-04T20:48:00.001-08:00

100_2615, originally uploaded by zarkfamily.

Been doing some redecorating the last few days. This is the "after" picture of the dining room. I added an older "before" picture to the set on Flickr so you can see what it looked like before. You can also see a close-up of the cabinet.

When my mom was here, she brought me a large painting that matched the teal stuff in my living room. So, we also added some sconces to either side of it to make it look more put together.

Every day we add a little bit more to make this place really feel like home. It's nice. :)

We Have Walking!

2009-03-01T20:52:00.000-08:00

Aidan walked today! We would stand him up and have him walk back and forth between us and several times he took 5 or 6 consecutive steps! He has the ability, now he just needs the desire. But I bet if we keep practicing like that every day, he will be mobile on his feet in about a week or so! Sorry, no video yet. We were a little busy catching him. :)

Poor Baby Snowman

2009-03-01T17:36:00.001-08:00

100_2607, originally uploaded by zarkfamily.

Some people wonder why we in Alabama get so excited about snow and have to take pictures and document every moment. Well... it's because only a few hours after the ground is covered in white, this happens. Poor pathetic baby snowman....

Aidan and his First Snowball

2009-03-01T09:51:00.000-08:00

Nick brought Aidan a snowball to play with. We didn't take him outside, far too cold for him. But, he still got to experience what snow was. :) Too bad he was a tad bit cranky. LOL!

And here is an extra video of Trixie playing in the snow.

Aidan's First Snow Day

2009-03-01T08:35:00.001-08:00

100_2574, originally uploaded by zarkfamily.

So, we had snow here in Alabama today. Doesn't happen often, so we always get excited. I am not planning to take Aidan out in it though, he doesn't even own a heavy winter coat because it just never gets that cold here. (except for today, of course.) So, he will just have to see it from the back window and touch the snowballs his daddy brings inside.

I think Nick is about to go outside and play in it though, lol.

Video Mess Up

2009-02-23T18:50:00.001-08:00

I am kind of ill that Flickr cut my last video short. The cutest part was at the end!

A Late Night Conversation

2009-02-23T10:07:00.001-08:00

A Late Night Conversation, originally uploaded by zarkfamily.

I have had very little sleep, watch the video to see why...

Wrestling With Tigger

2009-02-23T03:32:00.001-08:00

Wrestling With Tigger, originally uploaded by zarkfamily.

Aidan loves his new Tigger that his Gigi and Grandpa gave him, but he especially loves wrestling with him. It really reminds me of the Calvin and Hobbes Comics.

Aidan's Professional First Birthday Pictures

2009-02-20T21:54:00.001-08:00

0122, originally uploaded by zarkfamily.

We went to Portrait Innovations today and took some professional pictures for Aidan's first birthday. I am pretty please with how they turned out, except for the fact that I can never keep my eyes open. But, my sweet boy is so photogenic... he took some really beautiful pictures.

Be sure to check out the "Boy Genius" shots with his computer parts. LOL, that was a last minute decision, but turned out so fun.

A Day With Cousin Jacob

2009-02-17T15:53:00.001-08:00

100_2524, originally uploaded by zarkfamily.

Jacob came over and spent the day with us today, and Aidan thought that was just about the best thing to ever happen. He followed him around, giggling about everything he did. It was really really cute.

Bubbles

2009-02-17T15:51:00.001-08:00

100_2519, originally uploaded by zarkfamily.

Doctor's Visit

2009-02-16T20:18:00.001-08:00

100_2502, originally uploaded by zarkfamily.

Aidan had his twelve month well baby appt today. He is happy and healthy except for his weight issue. He is 17 lbs 14 oz, and didn't gain enough from his last appt. So, my new goal is to fatten him up as much as possible. He is supposed to have protein at every meal from now on and I am supposed to introduce all kinds of fatty food. Basically, anything I shouldn't have, he should have.

The pictures are funny, he was all over that office. He peeked out the windows, tried to open the doors, pushed the chairs around the room, etc. At least the doctor could see how active he is. :) What a silly baby.

We ordered his "big boy" carseat yesterday. Technically, he could stay in the Graco baby bucket for 5 more pounds, but it's time to get him the new one. I also ordered a toy storage bin system to try and organize all the toys he has collected now. My living room is no longer a living room... it's basically a playroom. We have a twin bed in Aidan's room right now, but since he can NOT sleep with anyone else in the room, we are gonna take it out and create a playroom in there. We don't play in there much, though, so we will see how that works out.

Future Rock Star

2009-02-14T22:52:00.001-08:00

100_2495, originally uploaded by zarkfamily.

There were so many pictures I wanted to blog from the ones I just uploaded, but I guess this is my favorite of the bunch. I got Rock Band 2 for Nick and we had just opened it. It was like Aidan just KNEW what to do, it was so funny. He didn't play or anything but he knew that the sticks hit the pads and that was how to make it work. My future prodigy, my little rock star. What an awesome little kid.

Check out the rest of the pics, we went to Ashtyn's birthday party today and played with other kids and watched her smear icing all over her face. It was lots of fun. :) I hope you all had a happy Valentines day. Ours was quite pleasant even though I had very little time with Nick. I got to spend the whole day with my true valentine, my favorite little man.

Happy Birthday Aidan

2009-02-13T21:15:00.001-08:00

100_2458, originally uploaded by zarkfamily.

Lots of pictures from today, Aidan had a really awesome birthday. He had fun, loved his cake, played with and thoroughly enjoyed every toy he was given and flirted with everyone.

I can't believe my baby is one year old... it makes me sad, but happy at the same time. Every day he gets more fun, but every day he just gets farther away from being my little baby.

Be sure to check out the rest of the pics.

A Tiny Little Handy Man.

2009-02-02T22:21:00.001-08:00

100_2296, originally uploaded by zarkfamily.

Aidan got tiny tools from Nanny and Granddaddy for Christmas. So, when Daddy got new shelf to put together, he got his little tools out to help.

Update

2009-01-29T00:03:00.000-08:00

I have been holding off on posting this because, frankly, I just didn't want to.

I found out about two weeks ago that my pregnancy wasn't viable. Basically, the egg never implanted in the first place. Guess that's what you get when you find out so early these days. If I hadn't been on the ball so quickly about taking pregnancy tests, I probably never would have known.

I didn't get a chance to actually fall in love with the new baby, but I did fall in love with the idea of a new baby, so we will try again soon.

Nick and I are both ok. We were sad for a while, but we are better now.

Aidan, on the other hand, is fantastic as always. I LOVE his personality. He is such a goofball and so fun to be around. He loves to play games with us and to be chased and to be tickled. I promise I will post more pictures soon.

Aidan's Last Christmas Presents.

2009-01-10T22:36:00.001-08:00

100_2270, originally uploaded by zarkfamily.

Aidan got some Christmas presents from his Grammy and Grumpy today, so here are some pictures for Grammy to see his reactions.

New Years Eve 2008

2009-01-08T23:44:00.001-08:00

New Years Eve 2008, originally uploaded by zarkfamily.

I have been waiting for this picture to be uploaded by Lee and Heather for a while so I could post this one. I KNEW it would be priceless. All I wanted was a family pic in our 2009 glasses, but Aidan WASN'T having it. So, as you can see, he is super angry and telling the world. Doesn't really make it any less cute, though, does it?

Here is hoping for a fantastic 2009! It can only go up from here!

The Baby and the Bullfighter

2009-01-07T22:45:00.000-08:00

Just one more post tonight, I really had a lot of things saved up on my camera waiting to be uploaded. Here we have Nick and Aidan's fun new game, "The Baby and the Bullfighter".

Upside Down Baby

2009-01-07T22:44:00.001-08:00

100_2264, originally uploaded by zarkfamily.

I just uploaded SO many pictures that I want to post on the blog, but I don't want to overload it so I just picked this one. It really describes life with Aidan right now so well. He is colorful and energetic and so much fun. He will crawl up to us, put his head down on the floor and his butt up in the air, waiting for us to pick up his legs and hold him upside down. So, he stays likes this a great deal of the day. I think he may be a gymnast. Nick showed him how to do a somersault earlier today, and he just giggled and giggled. This kid is just so fun to be around.