Tuesday, September 23, 2008

Fine Dining?!


So, it's no secret that Josh and I don't have much of a "refined palate". There is evidence of this in the fact that Josh's all time favorite place to eat is the Der Dutchman. This Amish restaurant is the epitome of down home cooking (maybe that is why he likes it, one of the few times he gets home cookin :) and the "Barn Raising buffet" is sure to please every time. Yesterday we decided to make the pretty country drive to the Der Dutchman. We went early in the evening and you'd better believe we were the youngest ones there by at least 40 years (old people love this place...and buffets). In the restaurant they have one buggy booth, the type of buggy pulled by horses, that the Amish still use today for transportation. Well, we couldn't resist the opportunity to dine in true Amish style (and we thought Bailee would enjoy it). So, I guess the secret is out, all the Deans need for a good time and fine dining is a buffet and a buggy...who'd a thought?!

Saturday, September 13, 2008

Scaredy Cat!



Okay, so Bailee had a wonderful 2nd Birthday! All she wanted to do and talked about literally for weeks was to go to Chuck E Cheeses. So, we went to Chuckees and no sooner did we walk in when "the mouse" came walking out. Sadly it pretty much ruined her whole Chuck E Cheese experience because she kept worrying about the mouse. We told her the mouse went home to take a nap and she was able to relax a little. However, there is also a stationary, mechanical mouse that "sings" and "dances" next to the stage, and that scared her just as much. Anyways, that is just one example of Bailee's many real fears. And when I say fear, I mean she usually breaks down into a state of hysteria until she is removed from wherever or whatever is scaring her. As you can tell, she is also scared of Santa, Bob the Builder, the Geico Gecko, Chuck E, and not pictured the Easter Bunny. Oh, but that is not all, she is scared of balloon animals, anyone wearing scrubs (reminds her of the Doctor I guess), nursery (well, not anymore, but she used to say "nursery kinda scary", just to name a few. So, I am a little worried and hoping this is just a stage, but I wonder is there such thing as omniphobia?

Thursday, September 11, 2008

9/11: A Day To Remember...



September 11th will always be a day to remember. A day of sadness, anger, fear, and sorrow. A day when many lives were lost and the effects of what occurred literally changed a nation. However, for me, 9/11 remains an unforgettable day for another reason. It was a day of happiness, relief, joy and gratitude when our "Sweet little Angel" was born. Although the effects of what occurred five years later may not have changed a nation (yet:), it certainly changed my life! What a blessing little Bailee is, and lucky for us we now have a reason to celebrate on this sad day. We love her so much and hope she has a wonderful Birthday! Happy 2nd B-day!!!

Tuesday, September 2, 2008

Introducing...


Baby Gabe has arrived! Gabriel Joshua Dean was born 8/28/08, weighing in at 7 lbs 11 oz. So, we are officially a family of four and so far things are going just great! The surgery went smoothly and I don't know what I would have done without my amazing hubby. I tell ya, it really pays off to have a husband who's a nurse, and a good one at that! My mom is in town helping out for a week (thank goodness), and I just love having a little baby to hold. Bailee too loves to hold Gabe, and gives him lots of hugs and kisses. I know she is going to be a great big sis, a little bossy, but I guess that comes with being the oldest child. ;) Just a quick update, but I thought you'd like to know that we're doing great and looking forward to this new adventure!