Rockin' Ryans

Summer Days driftin' away....

2009-08-17T16:18:00.001-07:00

Thought we would do a comprehensive post on the summer's events. It sure has been a fun one! From Father's Day to camping in Yosemite!

Char walking up to Yosemite Falls....not much up there when we got there.

Grama HeavenAunt Karen rowing

somebodies tired of walking

Deer Crossing...apparently they have priority in Yosemite.

Char with two of her favorite aunties

dirty camping feetend of camping family pic

Birthday Fun!!

BFF Adrian

Grama Dixie with her two kiddos

"oh-ma-darlin"

Mamma reading Char her card from gramadarlin. (same one grama dixie sent mamma when she was 3)

Char and cousin Sheri

new boots!

Aunt Lu heading up the clothespin game

always a lady

COUSINS!!

Father's Day Bike Ride complete with matching tattoos

Tea Party Time

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

So I invited all of my work buddies over to help us celebrate Charlotte's 3rd birthday. It would be the first of several mini parties. I was feeling like a little over the top girlyness so who better to help us with that that a bunch of fashion designers? Of course, they surprised us when they all showed up in "traditional" english tea party garb complete with hats and heels. It was so amazing, I love those girls!
Dave was such a good sport with my ewwy gooey girly ideas. From dowsing the house in pink to even wearing his own "prince daddy" crown. (how did i not get a pic of that!??) Anyways, fun was had by all, from eating cupcakes to making our own princess wands. But none more than our little Three year old.
"prince daddy" resting up fro impending girlyness Our Sleeping Beauty taking a carrot break post-party Had to take the big dress off briefly due to a yellow jacket that flew up it and stung her 3 TIMES! yet, she partied on. :)

To Our Sweet Girl on Her Birthday

2009-07-01T14:30:00.000-07:00

Words cant describe the happiness that you have brought to my life. You make getting up in the morning, not only a joy, but an excitement. To watch you grow over these years is truly a miracle in itself (4 inches from a year ago!) and watching you become the beautiful little person that you are is so heart warming and gratifying. From the way you give your little butterfly kisses to the way you like to just hold my head in your arms when you are half asleep. I enjoy every part of your life.
Three years ago today I thought that you were such an amazing little life but today I know what an impact you have made in so many lives just being the little spirit of joy that you cant help but be. I love you my little Char, sweet cheeks, my sweet Charlotte.

More pics to come of the celebratory events :)

Easter Weekend FUN!

2009-04-13T19:26:00.000-07:00

Our Easter weekend was filled with lots of fun stuff. Saturday morning Charlotte and I got up and headed to our local egg hunt at the fairgrounds (Dave had to work). We hunted eggs, went on a hayride and even met some new friends. After that we headed to Grama and Grampa's to color eggs and have another hunt with Char's best bud Adrian (who was definitely an egg shark, with his ratio running 4:1 above Charlotte). Sunday Grama and Grampa Ryan came over for Dave's version of Karen's famous shrimp ala dino...mmmm. We hung out, went on a bike ride, and did MORE egg hunting. Maybe with all her practice she can give Adrian a run for his money next year.

Dave and Karen trading recipe secrets

Charlotte takes a break from hunting to pick a flower

Charlotte and Adrian at Grama's

Char's new friend GiselleMe and Charlotte on the hayride being silly

Rainy Day Entertainment

2009-03-11T12:32:00.000-07:00

So last week we had a flurry of rain and the weekend was the worst so we were trying to find fun things to do inside. Charlotte is turning into such the "girlie-girl" she loves all things dress up and princess and ruffles...you get the picture. She also loves to hang out in "mommy's room" aka my sewing room. I will often pull out different little things for her to play with, from button boxes, to zippers she never knows what it will be next. Well, on this day it was my antique lace collection...she had a blast!

Around the Country in 9 days...

2009-02-04T21:08:00.000-08:00

So, our little fam has just returned from our trip back southeast (AL, TN, SC) and we had an absolute blast!

First we landed in Huntsville, greeted by Deedee and the kids. Vegged out at her house for a few hours and Dave finally got to see their house. Then it was off the Mom's in Nashville for the beginning of our belated Christmas. I just loved those days filled with Goodwill trips, puzzling, playing games and just enjoying each others company. After a few days hanging out with Mom and Tom and with some stop-ins by Jen and Brody(what a sweetie pie!), Craig and his girlfriend, and Jared, we made the long drive to Dad's in South Carolina.

Dad and Sue were all geared up for our tardy Christmas and they were so sweet to even leave their decorations up for us! It was so nice to be able to just relax, drink coffee and take the occasional shopping trip. Dad and I even got in a round of golf at their local par 3 course. We were also lucky enough to have Aunt Wanda, Lisa, and Granny make the trip while we were there. It was great to see Jesse and Jay again too! We also got to hang out with Deedee, Brent, and the kids the entire time! Charlotte and Sarah were fast friends...it was sort of a love-hate sort of thing...dotted with marathon hugs and coffee cup slugs (poor Sarah)

All in all we could not have had more fun! and we thank everybody involved for creating that for us!

beware the "panty-head gang"

Cuddlin' Cousins

being silly on Grama and Grandad's bed

Dad and Deed and anonymous baby doll

Sir Ephraim Statichead of Cute-alot

cheezin'

Granny and Charlotte were fast buddies

Charlotte loving Granny reading her a story

"where's the fire! panty head brigade is on the call"

whats more fun that banging a tree with sticks?

The Happiest Place on Earth

2008-11-18T22:12:00.000-08:00

(Mommy Blogger alert!)
Yep thats right, our fam just returned from a weekend in So Cal and a day at Disneyland. When contemplating what I wanted to do to celebrate my big 3-0 birthday I decided what better way to celebrate getting old than to go were you cant help but be young! Lucky for us, our sister and brother in law live 10 minutes away so they let us crash with them in exchange for a little Charlotte time :). ( Thanks guys!)

Well, we had a blast and it was well worth the steep ticket price. Charlotte loved pretty much every minute of it from the Tea Cups to the Winnie the Pooh ride. Oh, and the sugary treats helped too.

This was the scene driving in to the park due to the local fires...makes kind of a cool pic.

Charlotte and Mommy in front of Cinderella's Palace
Daddy and Charlotte on Dumbo
This one on the tea cups, she looks like a big girl!

The Princess on her thrown

Happy halloween!

2008-11-01T11:15:00.000-07:00

Halloween this year was a little less scary than last year. It all started with the selection of the right pumpkins.

Then we carved them up.

Little Snow White was all set for the evening.

Enjoying the spoils, lollys are her fave.

progress

2008-10-07T19:44:00.000-07:00

Today Charlotte wore big girl panties all day and keep them dry!

Tomorrow is another day and we will try to keep up the "Dry spell".

wish us luck! ~Dave

Happy Birthday Hubby!

2008-09-14T15:24:00.000-07:00

Yes, its Meg, resurfacing in a post for my Dave. Yesterday was his birthday and unfortunately he had to be in class all day learning for a possible career change. So when he returned Charlotte and I were ready with presents, lasagna, and cake...who could ask for more right?

My attemp at a bike cake turned out better than I expected (with the help of my friend Alexis) But I drew the bike, complete with chocolate cake "off road" wheels.

wedding at Spanish Bay

2008-08-31T09:14:00.000-07:00

My friend Rudy married his long time girl friend yesterday at the Carmel mission. It was a beautiful wedding, and the reception was beyond belief. I'm not much of a golfer but I must say playing a round or two on these links would be RAD!
I wish I had taken a picture of the bride and groom.

just an average thursday

2008-08-21T20:23:00.000-07:00

Today like every Thursday Charlotte and I go to the beach. The only thing different about today was I remembered to bring the camera. Yeah!!! We usually chase birds and get chased by waves. We draw letters in the sand (her favorite letters are S and O), and tell all the elderly walkers hello. We also practice our running skills. I got to tell ya, she is getting fast.

Yep just an average Thursday. ~Dave

Charlotte is silly

2008-08-12T20:47:00.000-07:00

Charlotte saw the video of B-Ro and started Laughing and crawling around. Meg was able to catch some if it on film, and I decided to blog it.

ode to the Mee-mee

2008-07-26T12:36:00.000-07:00

Thanks Beaker, you rock!

home owners yeah!!!!

2008-07-07T19:34:00.001-07:00

Cleaning, painting, boxes, work work work, nap, work work work.

This is fun!

Where is the box with the shampoo in it?

Hey look at this Meg and tell me if it is straight.

The party never ends, so if you are comming bring your hammer!

~Dave

Fathers day with my girl

2008-06-20T17:52:00.000-07:00

For fathers day we headed over the hill to my brother Dans house. When everyone showed up, we took a short walk to the park near there house and snaped a few pictures. Later we all went for a swim. turned out to be a real relaxing day, I guess any day pool side is a good day.

love to all. ~Dave

this shot is for granny, Queen of the food in the mouth photo.

Our little dare devil

2008-06-01T09:36:00.000-07:00

Meg and I took Charlotte to the park yesterday, she just loves to swing. In fact she can't seem to get enough. I started to push her and she looked like she wasn't having fun. I asked, "Do you want to go to the slide?" She said, "no more! more!!!" So I began to push her higher. She said "more! more! more!!!" It got to the point that if I pushed any harder the swing would have produced slack in the chain!

"MORE!! MORE!!! MORE!!!!!

My wife the Model

2008-05-29T20:03:00.001-07:00

Every now and again Meg does some modeling for her work. I've asked her about her modeling career and she says "I don't have a modeling career" LOL it's fun to tease her. I love my bride, she is rad. I love photo shop too. If you click on the picture you can tell (maybe) that there is some one standing next to Meg. (I turned her into a brick wall ).
peace out ~Dave

old pals

2008-05-02T21:12:00.000-07:00

I love the silly relationship that Charlotte has with her Mee-mee.

They are old pals, Mee-mee has been there for her from the beginning.

They always together for every nap.

Alway there...when she gets sick.

Always has time to snuggle and watch a movie.

yep, nothing like old pals.

time to sing and dance

2008-04-26T18:12:00.000-07:00

I have not posted a video in a while.

Thought this one was cute.

Kind-of dark but cute.

(The lighting not the topic).

Can any one name this song?

If you can...I promise to post again soon!

FYI: Most of the pictures that I post are taken by Meg,

then edited and posted by me.

Just wanted the credit placed where it belongs.

Love to all. -Dave

Grama Ryans Birthday

2008-04-24T20:03:00.000-07:00

On Sunday we went to my mom and dad's house for my mom's birthday. I worked in the yard with my brothers and dad, while Meg had fun with the kids!

Charlotte and Jackson learned that it is good to share. There is room on grandpa's tractor for two!

This is Cody and and Jack playing in the dirt, and Cody is showing you his work face!

On Wednesday we went to sign some loan papers (yeah!!!!) and what do you know, it is near this cool park. Any one know this kid?

As you can tell Charlotte hated it.

new pix of the chubby one

2008-04-19T11:54:00.000-07:00

Hopefully the six folks that read this blog will forgive me for not posting in a while. We have been real busy tring to find a house! (all fingers and toes are crossed for good luck) here are some pictures from Bill's 60th birthday party!

Charlotte and I were chasing bubbles in the backyard, and she got her pants dirty. So for nap time I just removed them. Before falling asleep, she removed her diaper. This is me trying to implement the tools given to me (by my Sister inlaw) FO FREE.

p.s. it can be free for you too...just check out The Pigbear and her Buddy Ro and download the updates for your photoshop.

static head and new fish

2008-02-03T16:00:00.000-08:00

Charlotte and I had fun playing tents and tunnels, and I used a fleece blanket for the roof...static head, enough said.

And we got some new fish! Its nice to see some fresh color in the tank.

ttfn ~Dave

learning something new

2008-01-24T10:59:00.000-08:00

Charlotte is not yet well enough to go back to daycare, so she is staying home with me. Today for the first time I attempted to put Charlotte's hair in pigtails. I ended up laughing hard enough and long enough for Charlotte to join in...and long enough after that for Charlotte to stop laughing and stare at me like "what the heck are you really laughing at"? I took pictures to share, posted, then re posted after reading Erin's blog. Two things new in one day. Not to shabby. ~Dave

It might take a little time, but with practice hopefully I will get better at both.

favorite food...anyone?

2007-12-15T15:17:00.000-08:00

In this picture, Charlotte is saying the name of her favorite food does anyone have a clue as to what it is?
~Dave

the great Char-lotto

2007-12-14T08:59:00.000-08:00

(pinch your nose and read the following out loud)

"THE GREAT CHARLOTTO vs. MEE-MEE THE VISCOUS"

Mee-Mee gets Charlotto in the corner...
with the swift reaction of Charlotto, she was able to reverse the hold,
8...9...10 heavy weight contender is now the champz!!!

I wanted Charlotte to wake up and play with me, its 9:00 and she is still asleep (so was Meg, hee hee). I shot this little show trying to wake her, but it didn't work. hope you like it.

"THE GREAT CHARLOTTO vs. MEE-MEE THE VISCOUS"
short play by daddy the bored

Happy Birthday Dad!

2007-11-17T15:00:00.000-08:00

Today is my Dad's birthday, and this is my "daddy dedication" birthday post....Its not just cuz I dropped the ball on getting a card out on time either!
My dad is one of the most intelligent people I know. I remember when Deedee and I were little we would ask him questions,like kids do, about randomness in the world, he always seemed to know the answer. When we would ask him doubtfully,"well how do YOU know?" He would matter-of-factly answer, "Well, because Daddy's know everything." We would simply take that as truth and go about our questioning. It would often become a game of "stump Daddy" trying to think of questions that he didnt know the answer to. I cant remember a single time that we did and I think to this day I still believe that.
I also remember many times growing up watching Jeopardy and Dad would know the answer to all of the questions. We always tried to convince him that he should try out for the show and make us thousandaires! These are just a couple of examples of how smart my Dad really is and I am so proud that has dedicated a big part of his life to teaching others just a few of the things he knows.
Dad is also a very funny guy....yeah sometimes they are cheap jokes but they will always make you laugh anyways :) I think making people laugh is one of the things he enjoys most and I love that. I am proud to say that I think my Dad and I have a very similar sense of humor.
These are just a couple of the things about my Dad that stuck out to me, none over his loving and caring heart and dedication to family. He is such a great Dad and an awesome Grandaddy!
So, Dad, I hope you have a wonderful birthday! I love you so much and cant wait to see you in a couple weeks!

Karen and Tommy Tighe

2007-11-09T22:59:00.001-08:00

I knew it would only be a matter of time until my sister Karen would find the one special person to share her live and time. Karen here's to all the little moments to come; good, bad, large, and small...take them together and your love will prevail. I love you both ~Dave

Halloween

2007-10-31T22:51:00.000-07:00

I only have a sec. to post...My sister Karen is marrying the coolist guy this weekend and we are leaving in a few hours. love to all ~dave

Charlotte is warmed up and ready for holloween!

Adrian

clean for my girls

2007-10-28T17:46:00.000-07:00

This weekend Meghan and Charlotte went To Sarah's 2nd birthday. I have another hour to kill before picking them up and thought I would Blog. For those fortunate enough to check our blog (before 8:30pm pst. on Sunday the 28th) you will know before Meg that I cleaned the house, and rearanged the funiture. I was able to move and clean the entire up stairs. With the help of Paul E. I was also able to move the tv (Thank you again Paul for the help!) I hope It makes my girls happy. ~Dave

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SARAH!! I HOPE YOU ALL HAD A GREAT TIME!!

Bamboo forest

2007-10-19T15:38:00.000-07:00

the last few weeks little miss Charlotte has not felt very well. Today she seams to be feeling a lot better so I thought I would take her to the Bamboo forest for a short walk and some fresh air while Meg got some sewing done.

she and I had a fun time running around and touching all the plants and playing in the fountain. I love running around chasing my little girl ~Dave :)
here are a couple of short soundless vids of the day!

Charlotte Walking

2007-09-01T09:01:00.000-07:00

Just in case, we still have blog subscribers...(I dont blame you if you've given up)...here are a couple videos of Charlotte walkin around the house...enjoy...

My wife

2007-08-19T11:30:00.000-07:00

The other day I called my wife on her cell and told her that I had purchased a huge pile of bikes.( www.roadsidedave.blogspot.com/ to see what I'm talking about:)~ anyways, some of the fellas at work said and I quote "my wife would kill me if I had done that"...not my wife. She said WOW now you can build some of the bikes you have been talking about! And the Judges from Canada give her a...

I'm a very lucky man.

1 year and 15 days!

2007-07-15T12:21:00.000-07:00

this first year has gone bye real fast...sorry we have not posted any pictures from her birthday. I think Meg is planning to post soon. until then Daddy has another sleeping picture to post that was taken today. love to all. Dave

Happy Mother's Day Mom!

2007-05-13T08:27:00.000-07:00

"MOM"--this is a word that has taken on a whole new meaning for me this year, not only for the obvious reason of becoming one, but also because of the unity that I now feel with that segment of the population that wakes up each morning yearning for the next time she sees her child's face, for those women who ache to their core if she sees her daughter in one ounce of pain, and those mom's who lose all concept of adulthood when their son is mistreated at school and are ready to go to blows with any snooty principal or bully kid that stands in their way!

It is for this reason that whenever I feel those motherly feelings I immediately reflect on my own mother during my growing up years and feel that much more appreciation, respect, guilt, and love for her. All the skinned knees, broken hearts, hurtful teenage words, bad decisions and life struggles that she watched me suffer through and undoubtedly suffered silently beside me. All the while soothing, waiting, listening, patient, supportive, and loving me through it all, putting her own feelings aside for my own.

My mom has so many amazing qualities including but nowhere near limited to- her ability to laugh at herself ("you think life's funny or something?"), her frugal nature, knack for organizing, solving any problem you throw at her, eloquent writing, and of course her landscaping skills with a simple pair of scissors (true story) :).

So, Whenever I feel those tinges of doubt or insecurity about my abilites as a mom, I simply reflect on my mom, and her mom (grama dixie), and even her mom(grama D) and I realize that all of these amazing women have shaped the mom that I am today. Then I am put at ease knowing that Charlotte is one lucky girl to have inherited these wonderful "mommy genes".

Thankyou Mom for everything you do for me and my daughter and family and also thankyou to all of the amazing mommy role models in my life: Karen, Grama Dixie, Aunt Lu, Deedee, Sue, Aunt Wanda, Aunt Jenny, Granny, Aunt Dana, Kelly Ryan, and Mrs. Joyce.

Have a wonderful Mother's Day....I love you!

first day of mommyhood

like mother, like daughter
2 generations of mommies3 generations of mommies 2 of the best moms in the world!

"baby hogging" note the scissors in her hip pocket!

Grama Dixie and her girlsmooches

Crawling and other assorted tricks

2007-05-03T17:01:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone! Yes I realize that it has been a while since we blogged but Charlotte just passed 10 months and she is doing new things everyday....It is so much fun to watch...Here is a little clip of a few of her tricks. Well enjoy...

Posing

2007-03-22T10:30:00.000-07:00

Okay so I realized after I took these pictures that Charlotte kind of looks like she is posing for a centerfold. The fact that she even has "cleavage" as Grandad and Nana pointed out, only adds to the image....

Well, lets all get past that visual and just see her for the cute posing, leopardprint-wearing doll face that she is!

Cant wait to see Aunt Deed, Uncle Brent, and SARAH! in a couple days!

Check me out!

2007-02-01T21:51:00.000-08:00

Oh yeah, everybody, Charlotte takes a big girl bath now ....and I do mean BIG girl...check out those rolls! She loves hanging out in the water and playing with her squeezy bath toys.

These are definitely going into the "blackmail at 16" file

On another note, I (Meg) just started my first Etsy shop. Etsy is a website were people can sell their handmade goods. Its a great place to find really cool stuff and unique gifts that you wont find anywhere else! (thanks to Deedee and JJ for the Etsy heads up)

ode to the pigbear

2007-01-27T10:31:00.000-08:00

the original pigbear pic Can you see the family resemblance?

Today is the one year anniversary of the pigbear blog that we all have grown to love so much. we have watch it grow from a little 3 comment site into a large dubble digit site with rad pictures and sweet links...
... its so punk rock!!!

Thanks Deedee for all the updates, pictures, positive messages and to Brent for the suppa sweet videos that we couldn't have done with out. We love you so much. Thank you for inviting us into your lives, Can I get an 'Amen'?

I clean up real nice!

Me and my aunt Lu just a swangin'

Me and cousin Jack

Catchup!

2007-01-07T21:26:00.000-08:00

Yesterday at the Park.

I know, I know, fallin down on the bloggin job AGAIN!
We had a whirlwind trip to South Carolina, and Tennessee to see the fam. Charlotte finally got to meet the world famous Grandaddy and Nana, as well as many other family characters. I am pretty proud of how she adjusted and bounced back to everything that changed from day to day. I hope everyone had wonderful Holidays and are enjoying a wonderful New Year so far!

Aquarium Fun

2006-12-09T12:13:00.000-08:00

So Aunt Lu was kind enough to let Me, Dave, and Charlotte sneak in to her work "Christmas Party" that was at the Monterey Aquarium....Let me just tell you, Charlotte was in Hog Heaven...or maybe Fish Heaven...anyways, She has a small fish tank in her room that she LOVES to look at. Well when she saw her fish tank x like a million she was very excited, to say the least...

Ryan family update

2006-12-03T17:29:00.000-08:00

Charlotte and Mom at the Christmas tree farm

She's a fan of her tongue lately!

Aunt Karen

YAYYY!! having a great time at aunt Dana and uncle Gary's house.

iceskating in Sanfrancisco

I must apologize for my neglect of Charlotte's blog as of late. I dont even have a good excuse!!! So here are some pics to try to make up for lost time...We are gearing up for our Christmas visit to see the other grandparents...and can hardly wait!

Belated thanksgiving post

2006-11-26T19:35:00.000-08:00

just a quick post from the daddy. Wanted everyone to know that we are thankful for having such a sweet curious little girl, and a few of sets of loving parents, and a handful of fantastic brothers and sisters, and tons aunts and uncles that love us. Thank you all and happy belated!

Happy Halloween....(a little late)

2006-11-05T10:47:00.000-08:00

Charlotte and Aunt Sheri
a rare family pic

cutie patootie
Here are a few shots of our girl at her first Halloween. We had put her in her "chickie/duckling" costume a few times before actual Halloween rolled around so when it was time for the big day, she was a pro. We went to Uncle Gary and Aunt Dana's house and "helped" them pass out candy. A few pieces of pizza and chicken later another Halloween was in the books....

Baby Laughs

2006-10-14T22:59:00.001-07:00

I think this might be the cutest thing Ive ever seen in my life up to this point! I know that Im biased but I dont care. Today was Charlotte's first official laugh! It just melts a mom and dad's heart...

One for the peanut gallery

2006-10-07T16:59:00.000-07:00

To calm the crowd daddy posted one of his pix (taken today)

Faire Fun

2006-10-05T19:41:00.000-07:00

Well, I had a girls day on Sunday. Me and a couple of girls from work,Alexis and Waiola, decided we wanted to go check out our local Reneissance Faire. Aside from the fact that it was pretty pricey admission (22$/person!!) We had a good time checking out all of the wares and listening to people talking in ye ole manner. It was also a great place to get some cool pics.

Hi Daddy 2

2006-09-29T21:52:00.000-07:00

I just couldnt resist videoing Charlotte as she played with her gym. She was really having a blast and it looked like she was driving! We miss you Daddy! Come home soon....

Hi Daddy!

2006-09-28T18:20:00.000-07:00

Here are some random Charlotte sightings...Ive been instructed to blog because Dave is out of town for the next couple of days and he wants to see his girl. I think she misses her Daddy because she was super grouchy this morning. Or maybe she misses her Grama and Aunt Lu who watched her this week while I started back to work.

Pro

2006-09-22T07:53:00.000-07:00

She definitely has the art of thumb sucking down! We should have known we were in trouble when she first sucked her thumb @ 5 day old! Now she doesnt even play around....she just "pop"....sticks it in her mouth, no problem.

She's "the boss of me"

2006-09-20T19:27:00.000-07:00

So Ive been instructed to post these pictures...Deed helped me edit them via Hello so here they are...

New Friends

2006-09-16T23:05:00.000-07:00

Today Dave, Charlotte and I went over to some friends house. Keri, Gary, and Amelia(before birth) were in our Child birth classes. Amelia is 3 days older than Charlotte and she is a little cutie. Charlotte had fun with her new buddy and we had a blast with her parents. Here is a little video of Charlotte and Amelia's interaction.
Dave wants me to call this video "Gimme the rock, yo!"

Happy Birthday Daddy Dave!

2006-09-13T08:01:00.000-07:00

This morning Charlotte was in the best happiest mood...which is not unlike most mornings. I walk in her room and she usually greets me with the biggest smile as if to say, " I been waiting here all morning lazy mom!" This is one of many characteristics that favor her Daddy (Morning person that is) Others include her curiosity for life, the generosity with her smiles, and those big beautiful blue eyes! I love you, Dave, and I am so glad for all of the wonderful qualities that you've given our daughter.

thought I would share some pictures from our honeymoon last year...
your gonna have to trust me on the pretty eyes thing, couldnt find a single picture with no shades!

bike

2006-09-11T14:47:00.000-07:00

Happy Two Months Charlotte!

2006-09-01T23:00:00.000-07:00

I cant believe our daughter has been in the world for two months already, it seems like Dave and I were just laying on our bed watching her wiggle around in my tummy and wondering what she would look like, and what her personality would be like...now we are seeing both of those things slowly coming through in her smile and little coos...So here are some recent shots.

The first time Charlotte met her Aunt Maureen

Playin'

2006-08-29T18:12:00.000-07:00

Charlotte loves her play gym, especially the little mirror (she is so vain) and the crinkly lady bug...Sorry for the poor videography,as many of you know, its not my forte :)!

"...Baby's got her blue jeans on..."

2006-08-28T19:16:00.000-07:00

There is just something so cute about a baby in jeans...maybe its just me...and they probably are a little big but anyways.... I took these pictures with some advice from my extremely-talented-needs-to start-her-own-business sister. Charlotte is growing so fast, it seems she changes every day. I weighed her at "baby talk" last Wednesday and she was 12lbs 1oz which coincidentally
was the exact same size as a little girl who was 4 months old!

Borrowed Time

2006-08-22T20:25:00.000-07:00

Today Ive started to realize that I am going to have to leave my girl and go back to work soon...my starting back date is September 25th, I visited work today and it made the time seem so close. I know it is going to be so hard, nearly impossible, to go from spending every day/hour with Charlotte to just 4 days a week and 3 evenings. The only comfort I have is knowing that she will be in good, capable, fun, loving hands in my Aunt Lori and Grama. They are both looking so forward to having their "Charlotte Days" and who can blame them? She is pretty darn cute....

So, what does "it" all mean?

2006-08-15T07:56:00.000-07:00

So, I guess Im "it".....
1. If you could build a house anywhere, where would it be? probably on a cliff studded beach in Cali
2. What's your favorite article of clothing? jeans...by far.
3. Favorite physical feature of the opposite sex? eyes and fore arms .
4. Last CD you bought? Alanis Morisette-Jagged Little Pill Acoustic...Starbuck's Special
5. Favorite place to be? Waking up in a tent after camping all cuddly with my honey
6. Least favorite place to be? Im gonna have to agree with Deed on the traffic thing
7. Favorite place to be massaged? Lower back
8. Strong in mind or strong in body? Mind
9. What time do you wake up in the morning? Im a big fan of sleeping in as many of you know, however, I fear those days are gone....alas....So do I count the first feeding of the day? Ususally about 3:00am
10. Favorite kitchen appliance? Dare I say...Microwave? No probably my rice cooker.
11. What makes you really angry? People who drive like dangerous idiots!...I seem to notice them more now with my little one in the car.
12. If you could play any instrument, what would it be? guitar
13. Favorite color? Green...definitely...every shade with the exeption of probably Hunter green...its too Eddie Bauer Ford Explorer for me
14. Sports car or SUV? If I have to choose it would probably be sports car...but Im gaining much more respect for a four door sedan (try getting a car seat in and out of a two door Toyota Echo)15. Do you believe in an afterlife? Yes
16. Favorite children's book? Alexander and the terrible, horrible, no good, very bad day.
17. Favorite season? Summer, LOVE hot weather...and MY baby was born then
18. Least favorite household chore? cleaning the tub
19. If you could have one super power, what would it be? Time travel
20. If you have a tattoo, what is it? Dont have one but pondering the idea of getting "Charlotte 4 Life" emblazed across my back...what do you think?
21. Can you juggle? umm....no
22. Person from your past you wish you could go back and talk to? Chad Webber..."Sorry I hung up on you when you called to wish me a Happy Birthday!"
23. Favorite day? Definitely Friday, it starts the weekend but it hasnt technically broken its skin
24. Sushi or hamburger? Im gonna go with Hamburger...although my experience with Sushi the other night with Deed was not unenjoyable....Wow that was fun! That was an awfully sneaky way to get my slackin' a** to Post Deed!:)
"Olly Olly Oxen free!".....

Just kidding....but it did get all of you out of your hiding spots! I tag Mom and Paul

Here is a quick video of Charlotte and her Aunt Deedee

Bonus Post

2006-07-25T19:11:00.000-07:00

I couldnt fit all the pictures I wanted to on one post

Baby updates

2006-07-25T18:38:00.000-07:00

Charlotte and two of her cousins, notice how close in size she is to her 4 month old cousin Jack!

So, Ive been scolded for not blogging in over a week...(sorry Aunt Deedee) Being that my life is consumed with baby Charlotte, I forget that everyone else only sees her in Blogland. Charlotte is continuing to grow and change every day, at her last Dr. visit her doctor said she was in the 95% for her height and weight. So she is a big girl!
Mine and Dave's 1st Anniversary was Sunday. Dave sent me out for a late morning massage while he took Charlotte grocery shopping...It was GREAT! We are two lucky girls to have such an awesome Daddy/husband. The rest of the day we just hung out with our girl.

Our Girl

2006-07-17T10:09:00.000-07:00

her first "thumb sucking"

Proof of the "Pardo" nose (just like her Grama Karen's)
All stretched out
Uncle Noah
Charlotte entrancing her Daddy

Here are some more pictures over the last week of Charlotte and her fam. We are still getting alot of visitors and so many people wanting to help us out with anything they can and Dave and I really appreciate that. In fact I think Im going to have to draw straws for who will get to babysit first!
Yesterday we took a trip down to the Santa Cruz wharf where they had the "Art on the Wharf" festival, which was really fun, we had Dave's brother Dan, Kelly and Jack and Cody. There was great music and food, Charlotte was kind of oblivious to the whole thing except the loud music and her first ride in the stroller.
Here are a few personality traits we've noticed about Our Girl in the 2 weeks we've known her:
1) She hates to be bundled, she has to have her arms free, and her legs too if its not too cold.
2) She loves Dave's beard (she doesnt even mind his prickly, tickly, kisses)
3) She is entranced by her "fishy friends" in her aquarium
4) She will let out two little squawks if she is hungry and thats it
We will add more as we learn them!

A New Frontier

2006-07-08T20:08:00.000-07:00

Over the last few days Dave and I have started our initiation into the sacred club of Parenthood. Today Charlotte is one week old and I have to say that she is making life really easy for us. She is either a really laid back and mellow baby or she is biding her time to unleash her wrath until after all of our help has gone, ie. Grama and Grandad.
She sleeps a good percentage of the time, in fact we usually have to wake her up to eat. When she is awake she looks around so inquisitively or stares at your face intently, its so fascinating how she seems to be soaking things in and learning with every second. We have had a parade of visitors over the last few days and she has been very understanding with being passed around from Grama to Aunt to cousin etc etc. Here are some pictures over the past week.

Thankyou for everyone's thoughts and well wishes over the last week the blogging family is truely a caring one!

we took her home today

2006-07-03T13:15:00.000-07:00

one of these days we will post pix of her with her eyes open.

we took Charlotte home today and she is sooooo cute (and we are'nt even bias) the three of us are in high spirts. it is good to be home. just wanted to post some neew pix and say thank you for all the kind comments. love Dave, Meg and Charlotte.

Charlotte is Here!!

2006-07-02T12:03:00.000-07:00

She was born on July 1, 2006 at 11:57 am. Weighed in at 8 pounds 3 ounces, 19 inches long and ten fingers, ten toes -- all is well!!

The Couture Couple

2006-06-27T15:37:00.000-07:00

So today is the 9 day countdown until Charlotte is due! Of course with my family history that means that we should meet her in about 3 weeks!! Who knows! Anyways, My last official day of work was last Friday, which also happened to be the big fashion show that we've been working toward at work for the last 3 months. Sorry we didnt get any pictures of the show itself but here is a pic of Dave and I post- show (if you look closely you can see me personify a well known cliche) Dave helped serve drinks to all the snooty dog- carrying Carmelites, thats why he gets a t-shirt too.

Daddy's Day

2006-06-18T17:08:00.000-07:00

Today is a special day for all of the Daddies in the world, whether it is their first Father's Day ,like Dave's, or their 27th like my own Daddy's. I feel very lucky to have both of these men in my life. Dads make us feel safe and secure, yet smart and independent...I cant wait for Charlotte to feel all of these things from her own Daddy...she has a really great one. Here are some pictures of Charlotte's room all finished I made all the cushions and skirt on the crib, Dave got her the fish tank. Our fish are named Little John (he is originally from our wedding centerpieces), Moto, and Sarah (she of course is the cutest fish with the white belly)

Baby Shower

2006-06-09T21:25:00.000-07:00

So Im a bit behind on updating everyone on the latest haps. Ive been sick this week, so I apologize. Anyways, I had the most awesome baby shower last weekend thanks to Aunt Lu, Aunt Dana, Karen and everyone else who brought/sent such beautiful, cute, creative, unique gifts! I must admit these pictures were kind of hard to look at, I guess looking at myself everyday in the mirror is a bit different then a picture. I didnt realize how different (ie chubby) I look these days, Oh well, I guess it comes with the territory!
I was overwhelmed by all the thoughtful and beautiful gifts that we recieved including 2 handmade blankets, on handmade fabric, many things from our registry and one of my personal favorites the little pink Hello Kitty Kimono directly from Japan.
We played a few really fun games such as "guess the white powder"(baby powder, detergent, sugar, baking soda, etc.), "baby trivia" (did you know the largest baby at birth weighed 24 lbs!), "guess how big Meg's belly is using a string measurement" (Aunt Lu won) and "find the safety pins in a bowl of rice (blindfolded)" (this one was much harder than it sounds)!
Anyways, it was really really fun, if only a few more important women could have been there it would have been complete! Charlotte is gonna be a lucky girl!

my bike

2006-05-28T18:54:00.000-07:00

my version of a "Turtle's progress" is my bike. it has been almost one year since I disassembled it for paint, well this weekend i finished the sanding and brought it back to the paint booth for a reshoot. it is nearly done... only 15+ hrs of sanding and another 2 of polish and it will be ready for a ride!

Happy Birthday Sis!

2006-05-26T19:49:00.000-07:00

Today is my sister, Erin's, birthday (or Deedee as her family and some others know her as) Since she is the one that got me into this whole blogging business I think its only right that she get a birthday dedication post.
I truly have the best sister ever, any of you who know her, whether old friends, family, book club, church, etc would probably agree with me on this. She has the kind of heart that shines onto everyone she meets whether you've known her for years or are just behind her in line at the grocery store. She has one of those personalities that people just enjoy being around, not only because she is a loyal friend, but she is funny, intelligent, and makes you feel so special just by projecting all of her good qualities onto you.
Deedee has always been more like my older sister that my 18 month younger sister (she used to love to ask strangers who they thought was older...come to think of it she still does). In my shy elementary years she was my translator to teachers and kids that I wouldn't talk to, In my spacey teenage years she was my reality check (let me tell you, I needed it!) And now that we are both in the begginings of parenthood (ie adulthood) she is my teacher, as her Sarah will be growing just a stair step ahead of my Charlotte. Its nice to have a little cheat sheet on parenthood. (Im sure she is dreading the inevitable late night calls, me frantically worrying that Charlotte's poop isn't the right color)
So on your birthday Deed, just know that I am thinking of you and thanking you for all of you love, advice and thoughtfulness throughout the years. I will never forget the week long wedding preparation boot camp that you endured (while 6months pregnant!) for what I can only imagine was pure and sincere love and understanding for your poor unorganized sister! You are truly my hero and I hope this day proves itself to be as special as you deserve it to be!
I love you and HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!

How can anyone wonder where Sarah got her good looks?

Baby Talk

2006-05-22T19:26:00.000-07:00

We spent the day yesterday at the Ryan's (the Dan and Kelly version)...we got another glimpse into life A.B. (after baby) Cody (big brother) and Jackson are two adorable kids! They were so fun to watch and it was so neat to see their different stages in life even though they are only 18 months apart! Dave enjoyed hanging out with the boys and getting a little Daddy practice in. I can really tell how excited he is getting to be a daddy when I see him holding little Jack, I can see him imagining his own little Charlotte.
King of the Castle
"Somebody take this kid!"
Three generations....of suckers!
Daddy Practice
Karen and Molly

What's more American than Classic Cars and Baseball?

2006-05-20T21:44:00.000-07:00

Dave and I had a pretty fun day today, we decided to get our butts out of the house and enjoy the beautiful day. We headed down to Capitola Village were they were having a Classic Car show, there were some beautiful cars there, Dave was really into it....I was more into the pizza and icecream, (as you can see me in the background trying to decide between pizza or seafood) My favorite was the 'old school' tailgater, I thought that was so cute!

Then we went over to Grama's and picked her up to go to Aaron's game. They actually won! The score was 11-2. We smeared 'm! Look at that serious stance Aaron's got! We had a good day....

Nursery Preview

2006-05-18T17:54:00.000-07:00

So I thought I would post some teaser pictures of Charlotte's room, these are just some little pieces going into her room, It coming together really nicely...Well it better be right with only 7 weeks left?
We took the hospital tour on Tuesday and saw one of the birthing rooms, they are all individual with their own bathroom and shower, Dave was excited about cable in all the rooms...I can just see it now..."Meg, are you feeling any labor pains, I think we might just make 'Monster Garage,?" Then there was this huge light that descends out of the ceiling that looked like the "eye of God" or something, it was seriously huge like 3x4 feet. I guess its good to blind the kid as she takes her first look at the world? All in all it was a pretty exciting experience, kind of set reality in a little deeper.

Mommy's Day

2006-05-14T18:47:00.000-07:00

Karen (Mom in law) nosing her way through the garden
Karen and I in the rose garden
Karen with 3 of her boys

So today was a cool Mother's Day, we went over to San Jose and hung out with Steve, Paul, and Karen and Tom(Dave's parents). First we went on a little hike/walk on this trail that kind of runs through downtown along the river...it was really hot and tiring for this ole prego lady but I made it through okay. The best part was the end when we got to a beautiful rose garden with all different varieties of roses.
We went back to Steve's house and had an awesome lunch of chicken teriyaki. When the boys retired for their mid afternoon naps Karen and I headed out for a girls shopping trip consisting of fabric stores, shoe stores, and Old Navy. Sounds like the makings of the perfect Mother's Day...the only thing that would be more perfect would be hanging out with my own mom!I LOVE YOU MOM!!

The Band Wagon

2006-05-11T18:48:00.000-07:00

Okay...so I'll admit, Ive never claimed to be immune to peer pressure or even blatent bandwagon jumping, so here goes with the first blog post for the Ryan family. When I asked Dave what we should name our blog he immediately chimed in with "The Rockin' Ryans, of course". Not only for the obvious conotation of cool but also because in just a couple months we will be rockin' our little Charlotte. Hopefully I will be able to keep everyone who is interested posted with updates on our lives as well as Charlotte's. I cant promise anything, all I can say is that I will try my darndest!
Dave and I have recently started our childbirth classes, which, I find very interesting. Also, scary at the same time. Those birthing videos definitely take the romance out of the whole experience...I thought the doctor was just supposed to emerge from under the crisp white sheet with our perfectly pink (and dry) baby :)) I guess its good to go into this whole thing informed right? I cant believe we have less than two months to go before our little bundle of joy (apologies for the cliche) is here! (July 5th for those keeping score)