Happy Marcus Monday!

It's rare that we have both sets of grandparents together at the same time. It is even *more* rare that we get a picture with the grandparents and Marcus.

Happy Monday!

High Fives and Sweet 16s

Though things have been nothing short of *crazy* around these parts, things have been very good. Because it's Friday that only means one thing: time to get to high-fiving.

Let's get to it, shall we?

1. THIS!

Sixteen has ALWAYS been my favorite number…
My Cyclones advanced to the Sweet 16, and play tonight. How sweet it would be to snag a victory over UConn!

2. My dad is known for slipping my brother and me a $20, or two, whenever we visit home, or when Dad visits us. Back in the day we used to have a 'hand off' where Dad would slyly slip the cash into our hands, thinking my mom was none the wiser (she always knew). Nowadays my dad gets creative and hides the cash in random places, and then texts little riddles and clues as to where we can find the hidden dough. This was the latest hiding spot…

HAAAA!

3. Marcus has become so animated with his facial expressions. I've been lucky to catch a few funny faces with my camera.

Pucker up, Buttercup!

4. Two of Marcus' 2-year molars are already in. I had no idea until the doctor mentioned it at Marcus' well-child check-up. It's pretty clear two more molars making their way to the surface of Marcus' gums. Thankfully, the only real problem we've been having is keeping Marcus' gritty little paws out of his mouth.

 Aside from some hand gnawing, the kid is in good spirits about his newly emerging teeth.

5. Our lives are finally returning to normal (no moving, no parties, no renovations). Yesterday was the first day we were able to enjoy our regular daily routine.

We both appreciated having nothing to do and no where to go, except the park, of course.

Have a great weekend!

The Brick Wall

There isn't much strength in me to muster up a proper post today. So, forgive me as I simply list all the crazy that we have recently weathered:

A) We wrapped up a six day kitchen renovation.
B) Within minutes of finished reno we began moving into our new house.
C) Thanks to the massive amount of help received from my folks and Scott's folks we were totally moved out of our old home and into our new home last Friday.
D) Last Saturday we unpacked every single box and hung every single picture and curtain. Along with making our house feel like a home, our parents were kind enough to help scour our old place and clean it like it's never been cleaned before.
E) Sunday was the birthday party, which took a lot more time and energy to plan and prep and execute than I imagined.
F) Monday-Tuesday I played single parent as Scott was out of town for work.

It'd be a lie if I said the past week hasn't been overwhelming. I've hit the proverbial brick wall, and I'm thoroughly exhausted. We don't have a whole lot planned for the next few days, and I've never been more excited to do *nothing*.

Hopefully I'll have something with a little more substance tomorrow.

The Kitchen Reno - A 6 Day Whirlwind

Exactly 13 days ago we received the keys to our house. Immediately upon receiving those keys we (by we, I mean our contractors) went right to work on demoing and renovating our kitchen.

Let's take a quick look at what was (or wasn't) the kitchen BEFORE:

PHOTO BOMB!

Those cabinets are from 1979. I'm not even kidding. The counter is tile. TILE! Have you EVER in your life tried to clean tile counter in a kitchen?? OHMYGOSH it is THE WORST THING EVER. Getting that grout clean? For get it, impossible. Our former town home had tile counter tops and I DESPISED them. Getting different counters was nonnegotiable in my world.

After talking with our contractor about what we were hoping for in a kitchen he drew up a floor plan.

Just seeing the potential our kitchen held had us excited. 

During the transformations I took a picture at the end of each day.

Totally gutted. Doesn't it already look better?!

Island installed, and cabinets in.

Partial counter top installation, and partial hardware added to cabinets.

PHOTO BOMB!
Counter tops installed, hardware installed, moulding up, and electrical work complete.

Back splash installed and faucet installed.

For 24 hours we couldn't touch the back splash/grout, and couldn't use the sink, as the caulking had to dry. While we waited for all that we moved in immediately, cautiously unpacking and giving every kitchen item a home. 

It blew my mind how quickly and efficiently the contractor and laborers worked. In less than a week our kitchen was complete. 

We realized town home living wouldn't give us a huge kitchen. With that in mind we tried to utilize every inch of workable space. Here are a few details and features that we feel make the best use of the space provided. 

Left: A few cabinet doors with glass and decorative etching. Before now I'd never taken our china out of their boxes. I can now display them!
Middle top: A DISHWASHER! Prior to the new kitchen we had been hand washing dishes for the past four months.
Middle bottom: Pull out pantry cabinets. LOVE.
Top right: Pull out spice rack, gas burning stove, and a double oven.
Middle right: A place to hide our trash.
Bottom right: Under-cabinet lighting, and our backsplash. The lights are such a fabulous feature, and I love our pearl glass Subway tiles.

FINALLY - a fully functioning kitchen! 

Oh-TWO-dles! (The MMCH Birthday Party)

Mickey Mouse is kind of a big deal around here. "Miska, miska," and "moooouse," and "hot dog" are familiar terms that are used often. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse (MMCH) is about the only show that will keep Marcus' attention, and keep him sitting still, for longer than 3 seconds.

Because we have yet to actually take Marcus to Disney Land and meet the mouse in person, I figured the next best thing would be to bring Mickey to Marcus for his second birthday!

Here are the invitations that were sent out.
Instead of paying to have these made I whipped them up using PicMonkey, and then printed them off at Target. Going that route was SO much cheaper!

On to the party!

Here's the birthday boy! Decked out in his very own Mickey threads.

Just checking out the style. Those suspenders were very intriguing.

The Mickey Birthday Outfit was courtesy of Grandma D's sewing skills.

Aside from the guest of honor, the cake was certainly a show stopper.

The lady who made our cake did an AWESOME job! I was thrilled with how it turned out. And, Marcus kept asking, "Cake? Cake? Cake?"

 Little man was so excited to be near that cake. Unlike last year, he seemed to really enjoy being center stage.

After a few (read: several) attempts to blow out the candle Marcus was successful at extinguishing the flame.

Also an improvement from last year's party, Marcus liked LOVED the cake. Ohhh buddy, was it so gooooood.

There was no set time for lunch, but I had a variety of food out for people to grab and munch on as they pleased.

Mickey's Hot Diggity Dogs, Toodle Noodles, Clarabell's Corn Dip, Minnie's Melon Mix, Goofy's Goldfish, Pluto's Puppy Chow, Daisy's Drinks, Pete's Produce, Chip n Dale's Chocolate "Chips", Figaro's Fruit Pouches.
Not pictured: Donald's Dip

The decorations were kept to a basic minimum. I put together easy DIY center pieces and placed them on each table and called it a day. Smart move, as most of the kiddos were running around outside, and that didn't leave much time for many adults to sit down for too long.

Mickey, himself, made an appearance, and he was a huge hit.

 As guests left I had goodie bags and Mickey shaped cookies as parting gifts.

There was so much going on and so many people to chat with that I didn't get as many pictures of the actual party taking place as I had hoped. But, to me that just means the party was a success!

Thankfully, after a nap and outfit change I made sure we got a picture with our birthday boy. Just look at that happy little face…

A GINORMOUS thanks to Grandma and Grandpa Macke and Grandma and Grandpa Dudding for all their help in making this party the success it was!

Let the brainstorming for #3 begin!

Happy Marcus Monday!

It's crazy how much change happens right before our eyes.

Twelve snapshots, 12 quick months, one little man who has successfully stolen my whole heart.

Happy Monday!

Happy Birthday to my Little Man!

Today was filled with lots of love, laughter, and Mickey Mouse.

Height: 35 inches (97th percentile)
Weight: 33 pounds (95th percentile)
Teeth: 19 - two 2-year molars snuck in and I had no idea
Clothes: 3T
Shoes: size 7

Marcus,

HAPPY 2nd BIRTHDAY!!

Watching you grow into this energetic little boy has easily become the highlight of my life. You are so full of spunk, no day is ever the same, and each day brings us new adventures. 

You're my whole world, little man. I'm so blessed to be your mommy.

I love you to the moon and back. Twice.

Love,

Mommy

P.S. I can't wait to share all about your party, and the fun we had. But, right now mommy needs a little rest. And, a big glass of wine. 

High 5-ing :: Birthday/The Moving Edition

Holy cow, this week has been something else. 

We are in the thick of moving, so there isn't a moment to spare over here. Let's get right to this week's high fives!

1. Marcus' turns TWO on Sunday. My mind is still trying to process this. 

2. Our little birthday boy is going to have a big ol' party Sunday. I can't wait to see all the planning come together.

3. Our kitchen was totally finished yesterday! The whole renovation process went so much smoother than I anticipated. I'm dying to share all the details.

4. We will likely be all moved in to our new place today. I can.not.wait to finally be all settled. 

5. Both sets of grandparents are in town. We kind of got a two-for-one deal… They're here to celebrate Marcus' birthday, BUT we've also been putting them to work with all the joys of moving.

Have a great weekend!

For Dad

To the man who had my heart first, and always.

To the man who puts others ahead of himself.

To the man whose goal is to put a smile on everyone's face.

To my biggest inspiration, my biggest cheerleader, my biggest fan.
To my dad,

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, I love you!! 

11 Q&As

If I have to pack and haul one more box I might scream. I feel like we've been doing this for ages (in reality it's been about a week).
A blogging break is welcomed and needed. Due to the move there hasn't been much else going on in our lives. Whomp whomp whomp.

Thankfully, one of my best blogging friends, Stephanie over at Wife Mommy Me, was so sweet and nominated me for a Liebster Award. Stephanie is a fellow domestic engineer, and mommy to Connor, the cutest little boy with the biggest grin. She is also one of my go-to gals when I'm in need of a good read recommendation, could use a few extra words of encouragement, or falling short on party planning ideas (she is a party planning guru, for real). Be sure to stop by and say hi to her!

On to the questions…

1. What is the meaning behind your blog title?
I knew this blog would be a way to document our lives as the Macke family. I also knew I would likely be the only one authoring each post. Just like that Macke Monologues was born. 

2. As Moms, I'm sure you get a good dose of cartoons/kid shows daily. What is one cartoon/kid show your child likes that you can't stand?
Marcus doesn't watch much television, kid doesn't sit still long enough. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse is a HUGE hit, however. And, that I can tolerate. However, there have been times Calliou comes on, or an old episode of Thomas the Train, and you can bet your bottom dollar I'm quick to change the channel.

3. Something you haven't done in the last year:
Playing volleyball or softball. Before we moved to LA we played those sports almost year 'round. I miss playing, a lot.

4. Currently loving:
Chocolate covered pretzels. I'm not a pretzel fan, or a chocolate fan, but I bought these for the upcoming birthday party. I snagged a few as a snack yesterday and now I cannot stop. SO GOOD.

5. Currently hating:
Not having a dishwasher. We've been hand washing for the last three months. I think a functioning dishwasher is what I'm most looking forward to in our new place. 

6. Favorite place to shop for yourself:

Online. Who has time to physically go to a store when there's a 2-year old running amuck?!

7. Last piece of mail you got that wasn't a bill or junk mail:

An area rug and a Mickey Mouse back pack arrived via mail yesterday. Marcus also received some mail yesterday. He hit the Mickey Mouse jackpot in a birthday package!

Marcus scored some seriously sweet Mickey gear from our friends Sally and Mace!!
Please excuse the horribly iPhone, blurry photo. 

8. Share a favorite blog that you enjoy reading daily:
Just one? Gah, that's really tough! There are so many amazing bloggers that I enjoy keeping up with daily. But, if I'm sharing JUST ONE, you have to check out Amie @ Lassen and Company. I'm pretty sure she and I are long lost sisters. We share so much in common. I cannot wait until June when we will run Hospital Hill 1/2 together. And then likely consume our weight in wine. I'm pretty freaking pumped.

9. Last place you went on vacation sans child:
Last May Scott and I snuck off to the Bahamas to celebrate a wedding. We were without Marcus for about a week. It was a wonderfully relaxing time, but I was missing my little guy by day three. 

10. What is your favorite holiday? 

Christmas, hands down. Celebrating the birth of Christ, continuing family traditions, and sharing all of it with Marcus - the best!

11. Share one piece of parenting wisdom with your readers: 

Time speeds up once a little one enters the world. Cherish each moment. Give lots of hugs and kisses. Say I love you every chance you get. And be sure to keep your wine well stocked. :) 

That was fun, thanks Stephanie!

While the 'rules' state I need to 'tag' 11 other ladies I find that to be slightly excessive. Here is a handful of Liebster Nominees you should check out!

Amie @ Lassen and Company

Abby @ Is This How Parenting Works?

Erin @ Homemade Happenings

Jess @ Adventures in Ginger Mommyhood

Nicole @ Suddenly Snowden

Ladies, here are your questions:

1. What is the one book you believe everyone must read?
2. If there were 25 hours in a day, what would you do with that extra 60 minutes?
3. To date, what blog post of yours is your favorite, and why?
4. What is one thing you would love to tell your 16-year old self?
5. As moms it is sometimes difficult to carve out 'me' time. What is one thing you love to do just for you?
6. Where is your dream vacation destination?
7. What is the best mommy moment you've experienced thus far?
8. A guilty pleasure:
9. Favorite app:
10. What is something your readers may not know about you?
11. Share a favorite picture of your little one(s) with YOU in the picture, too:

I Put My Camera Down

Often I struggle with the fine line of capturing moments with my camera and missing moments because I'm too busy trying to capture moments with my camera. Does that make sense? Sometimes I get so caught up in trying to snap *just the right* picture that I am actually removed from what's taking place in front of me.

This weekend I decided to change that. This weekend I put my camera down.

Between all the packing and moving we have been busy doing, we gathered up our beach gear, loaded up the little man, and we headed to the beach for a much needed break. And, I left my good camera at home.

The skies were crystal clear. The water was a stunning deep sapphire blue. The sand was warm and perfectly crunchy underfoot and between our toes.

I cannot accurately describe the joy I had simply sitting back and watching Marcus and Scott chase waves, splash around, and repeatedly scoop and throw sand into the ocean.

After soaking up the sun, sights and sounds of our surroundings I jumped in on the fun, too.

Though my 'good' camera stayed home I did snap just two pictures of our afternoon (because I couldn't walk away without any photos).

We tested out a kite, which entertained Marcus for a total of three minutes before he was over it.

There were SO many sail boats out.

Our beach day was one of the best, most relaxing we've had, and needed, in a long while.

This weekend was just the reminder I needed that sometimes it's okay to put the camera down. Because, if I do, I just might make some of the best memories with my little man.

Happy Marcus Monday!

My love is so high, and so wide and so deep, it's always right there, even when you're asleep.
Where Ever You Are: My Love Will Find You, Nancy Tillman

Because I just can't get enough pictures of my little man sleeping… 

Happy Monday!

Friday's 5 - Good Stuff All Around

What.a.whirl.wind of a week. Yowzers. There has been a lot of crazy of this week, but the bright side is that it's all been pretty good stuff. Great stuff, in fact. So much awesome is going on that this might be one of my favorite posts.

So, let's get right to it!

1. THE HOUSE IS OURS! OFFICIALLY OURS! We gained possession of the keys yesterday. HALLELUJAH! Let the chaos commence.

2. Our new place needs a SERIOUS kitchen renovation. The kitchen needs an entire post for itself. But, the condensed Friday version…. Scott and I were finally able to come to an agreement on both the kitchen counter top and the backsplash. I cannot wait to see it all come together. EEK!!!

3. THIS is our kitchen currently. Oh my gosh, it's already a million times better than before. When it's all done I'll have a full before and after to share. But for now, here's our totally gutted cocina.

4.  Next to football season March Madness is one of the best times of the year. I'm already looking forward to filling out a couple of brackets next week. For the time being though, I'll bask in the goodness of the Big 12 Tournament. Yesterday was a satisfying win for my Cyclones. I won't mention who they beat (sorry, Scott). A win tonight would certainly be amazing as well. Let's go ISU!

5. The weather has been downright perfection for one little boy who loves nothing more than to be naked and play in the water. When we aren't doing 'new house stuff,' this has been our life all day, every day, for the last week. And, this weekend it's supposed to be in the mid-80s. Woohoo! I predict this little guy won't be in too many clothes the duration of the weekend.

Let's also take a moment to reflect on Day Light Savings, and how it has had a positive impact on this little guy. With the exception of one night/morning he's been sleeping in PAST 6:30. That's big time in this house.

Happy Freakin' Weekend!