Two years...

Happy Anniversary, Mommy and Daddy!

Two years ago today, my mom and dad got married. To each other. Three months later they found out about me. Surprise! Of course, I think I'm the best thing to happen to them in these two years. Okay, ew, that's gross. Let's move on.

On a completely different note, I got a shot today. It hurt pretty badly and I let Mommy know it. Since Daddy is still on vacation (and Mommy can't drive because of her knee), he got to come along to the doctor's office. I wanted him to hold me instead of my Mom after the shot. He made me feel all better.

Mommy and Daddy got a babysitter so they could go to lunch and the mall for a little while on their own. They had an awesome time including a very romantic lunch of Chick-fil-a in the food court at Carolina Place Mall. Daddy opened all the doors for Mommy and they held hands and laughed like crazy. Now, they do all these things normally (the laughing and fun stuff) but it was even more special today. Mommy is getting all misty just thinking about her day. Daddy makes her feel so special. But now that you're all getting grossed out, I'll just leave it at this: it was a great anniversary day.

Okay, well, I gotta eat some grub, play, and then go to bed. It's been a tiresome day. I love you, Easter Bunny (everybody)!

love, tj-i'm-too-young-to-ring-in-the-new-year budic

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Ohio cold...wasn't so cold!

Yesterday, the Budic family drove home to Charlotte. It was the easiest drive we've had yet. I was very good and only whined for about an hour and a half total. I slept a good 2 hours and watched Bob The Builder and Transformers on my new DVD player. It was awesome!

When we pulled in the driveway, the first thing my Mommy and Daddy noticed was the temperature (66 degrees) and the BRIGHT, GREEN grass growing in our yard. I guess it rained the entire time we were in Ohio...and has helped the drough issue a ton! I can't wait to roll around in that grass! It looks so soft!!!

One of the topics of conversation that my parents had during the drive home was the temperature in Ohio. They had been dreading the cold so much...but realized it wasn't at all as bad as they thought it'd be. That's a few points for Ohio and may shave a year off of staying in Charlotte. Hehehehe.

Today is going to be a great day. We are going to put my toys together and just play with all my new stuff all day. This house has become a PALACE of toys. Even the bathtub is full of fun! I can't wait to get naked and play! : )

I miss everyone terribly...but I'll see you very soon. Love you!!! TJ the Toy Maker

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He missed us!!!

Mommy and I were without Daddy for about 6 days…ew…Mommy and I flew in early for surgery and Daddy had work to do and couldn’t come with us right away. I missed my Daddy so much before he came here. Gosh, I just didn’t know what to do without him. Either did Mommy. I think he kinda missed us too because he drove through the night to get to us earlier than planned. Isn’t that awesome? He is so wonderful!

I love you, Daddy! I love you!

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I’m baaaaaack!

Mommy had her surgery on the 17th and it went really well. Dr. Parker at the Cleveland Clinic is amazing! He’s done all 4 of Mommy’s surgeries and she trusts him completely. He’s such an awesome man too. Mommy and Daddy actually considered Parker as a name for me…that says a lot about the guy, eh? And no, he does not have red hair. Hahaha.

Mommy was on crutches for 10 days and today she went without them completely. She is so happy about that. Originally, Dr. Parker said it’d be about 4 weeks before she could walk without crutches, but he didn’t have to do the microfracture part of the surgery like he thought he might…so her recovery time is much quicker. Yippee for that! She can get on the floor and play with me again finally. I missed that!

Thank goodness for my Grammie and my Daddy who took awesome care of me and of Mommy while she was healing up in Berea. Mommy has had great help everywhere she’s gone! Grandpa helped her put her shoes on and chased me around the house and tickled me, Grandma made me dinner and watched over me, Auntie Melissa let me slap her in the face a bunch of times and played tons with me too. Uncle Bill made sure I got some toys instead of all clothes for Christmas and he carried me around too. My Uncle Paul and Aunt Carey had fun with me too so my Mommy could take naps here and there while she healed. My Poppy took me for winter walks a few times. I got all bundled up and we walked to Dick’s Bakery for cookies. And my Uncle Ben came to see me a lot which meant the world to me! He even skipped class (shhhh!) to come visit me. I went to his basketball game at Rocky River (he’s a coach!) and he was proud to have me there. I loved all that!

Well, I’m still in Ohio for a few more hours until we make the 8 hour drive back home to Charlotte. I have loved every minute of my vacation here. Seriously, I have been a very, very good boy.

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Walkin’ Like a Man

On December 22nd, Daddy took me to the Budic Family Christmas Party while Mommy went to my Aunt Carey’s Wedding Shower. Mommy missed being at the party with us, but heard all about it from Daddy. Boy, did we have a great time! I played like a champ, smiled at everyone and took my first real series of steps in front of EVERYONE! I am officially a walker. How cool is that? Since then, I’ve really taken off. I’m not solely walking because crawling is much faster, but I’m going, going, going!

Mommy went to my Aunt’s Wedding Shower and had a great time too. She can’t believe her little sister is getting married but she really likes Paul so it’d definitely a good thing. I like my Uncle Paul too. He plays with me and says “give me 5” and I do it. He’s fun.

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So this is Christmas!

Christmas Day was so cool! In the morning, I opened tons of presents from my Grammie and Poppy, Aunt Carey and Uncle Ben, and my Greats too. I tore up tissue paper like a champ and helped other people open their gifts too. I liked climbing on the big boxes the best. After brunch, we drove to my Grandma and Grandpa’s house where we ate more food, opened tons more awesome prizes, and played too. Lisa played a lot with me, and I think she’s pretty. Auntie Melissa and Uncle Bill, Uncle Michael, Auntie Marcia were there too and they bought me fun things to take home to Charlotte. Everyone was so generous to me!!!

After that, we drove to my Nonny Ice Cream’s house (I call her Nonny Ice Cream because she gives me ice cream whenever I see her) and opened stockings and had a few more gifts to exchange. What a full day! I had a hard time going to bed after that. There was so much excitement, I just got a little overly worn out.

I can’t believe I had Christmas last year too. I don’t remember it … I think I slept and cried a lot. I missed out on a lot last year by just sleeping. Wow! I promise never to miss it again.

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I’m nice! I’m nice!

I’m already on Santa’s Nice List for next year. I have been so good this whole trip! Lots of friends and family members have held me, played with me, kissed and hugged me, fed me and pinched my cheeks and my attitude has been pretty darn good throughout it all. I just love everybody and hope everyone knows how much I love them!

I miss you Grammie and Poppy! I miss you Grandma and Grandpa! I miss you Aunties and Uncles. I miss you Easter Bunny!!!

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FYI...

Hi Everyone in my life!!!
I will be unable to write any more blogs for the next few days...until the 20th or so. I must take a few days off to take care of my Mommy. She's having knee surgery (her 4th and FINAL), so I have to make sure I'm by her side whenever she needs me. Please say a little prayer for her on Monday!
Love, Dr. TJ

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I FOUND IT!

I found it! I found it! I found my left nostril! I love my left nostril and I have named him Roger. Roger the left nostril. I like to stick my finger in my nose and when I do...I get this bright, happy look on my face as if to say 'I FOUND IT!'

Love, TJ

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C'mon Daddy, be a man!

Mommy made Daddy and me ravioli for lunch today. For our vegetable, she sliced up some zucchini and cooked it with some butter. Mmmm. I really liked mine and ate it up! When Daddy came downstairs and saw his beautiful plate of pasta, he said "oooh!". Until....he saw the zucchini off to the side. At that point, he made a funny face and said "what is THAT!?"

Mommy "made" Daddy try it. He actually gagged and had a very hard time swallowing the vegetable. After 2 bites of it, he asked if the nutrition contents were the same if he swallowed it whole instead of chewing. Mommy said "forget it" and she ate it instead. Dad, seriously, be a man and eat your veggies!!! Grandma: Did Daddy always have such a hard time eating his vegetables?

That's all the poking fun at Daddy that I'll do today. He is the best example for me in every other way and Mommy is proud of him for that. We're going running as a family again today. It may be our last family run for a few months. Mommy and I are leaving on Thursday for Cleveland. After Mommy gets home from the hospital, she'll be on crutches for 4 weeks. She's excited (enter sarcasm here) to take care of me while on crutches. At least she'll have her Mommy while we're in Cleveland for awhile.

Well, more to write later. Love you! TJ

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Laughing TJ Video

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Nativity Scene

Hi! I have my very own nativity scene. Ain't it cute? Just like me. I like to play with the little Veggie Tale guys all day long. The little angel/star on top plays music and I press the button a million times a day and Mommy still hasn't taken it away from me. She's nice. I'm sure it gets annoying, but how can you take something away from your little boy that sings about Jesus? You just can't. You don't want to upset the Big Guy. Hehehe.


Lately, I've been carrying my sippy cup around with me everywhere. I sip on it every once in awhile like a big boy...I sit myself up straight and use great posture. But now that I drink gallons of water each day in addition to my milkies, it makes me have to pee more. So, I have a little story for you.

Mommy was giving me a bath the night before Daddy came home so I would smell especially good when he hugged me. I splashed her a lot, and got water in my own face, and then stood up because I wanted to get out. When she got me out of the water, she put me against herself and then wrapped me in my towel. As we were walking to my bedroom, I just couldn't hold it anymore and I just let it all out. Mommy shreiked a little at first when she realized what was happening, but then she just stood there and closed her eyes and sighed. It had been a long few days without Daddy and this just topped it off for her. So, she stuck me back in the tub and rinsed me off. I got dressed and lotioned up...and then we went into her room so she could clean up. My warm pee got cold realllly fast. Eew. I ruined her sweater. Oopsie. She knows I didn't mean it though.

Tomorrow, I'll tell you about my golf clubs! Okay, well, I gotta go back to sleep now. Love, TJ

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Bragging Rights

I truly hate to do this to those of you reading this in Cleveland, Chicago, Colorado Springs or any other cold, cold place on Earth. Here in Charlotte, it is currently 69 degrees...quite warm. The weather thingy on our computer says that it will be 78, 76, and 77 on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday, respectively. Not bad. Not bad at all. Enough about the weather, let's get to the good stuff...

My Daddy and Uncle Bill had a conversation about flying monkeys last week. (Don't ask) Well, I have become a monkey myself. I don't fly, but OH do I climb! Yesterday, Mommy and I were playing in our living room when she needed to run upstairs to get something. She was only gone for a second...but I saw that as my opportunity for greatness. The minute she disappeared, I scrambled over to my toy bin (which is really a large foot rest with a comfy cover on it) by the window. It wasn't open, so I climbed on top of it and proceeded to grab the curtain holder-backer (what the heck are those things called?) and dangled from it until Mommy came down...4 seconds later. When she didn't see my where I had been a second earlier, she freaked inside and then she saw me. Hanging from the curtains. Instead of gasping, she held in her fright ... afraid that startling me would make me let go and fall on the floor. Instead, she charged in slow motion toward me and lifted me off the curtain holder-backer thing.

Yes, I had achieved greatness. However, I got in big trouble. I got the finger pointed at me, a little "no, TJ, that's baaaad" and then we were done with it. When the scolding was over, Mommy put me down on the floor again and what was the first thing I did? I went right for the curtains again. Needless to say, the toy bin is no longer under the window. My Mommy ain't no fun.

I had fun being a monkey for a moment though!

Love, TJ ooo ooo ahhh ahhh ahhh!

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Best Ever

Tonight was the best nite-nite bedtime ever. I was pretty tired from a long day of playing and crawling around with Mommy. I didn't take my morning nap and didn't take much of one in the afternoon either. So, when my bedtime rolled around, I was ready.

Mommy took me upstairs and I drank my milk like a good boy. When she stood up from the chair and walked toward the crib, I whimpered. I just didn't want to be in my crib alone yet. And Mommy didn't want to let me go yet either. (We both miss Daddy very much) So, she stood there in front of the crib with me. I put my head on her shoulder and wrapped my arms around her neck. I played with her hair gently while I said "mama mama mama" over and over. Until I fell asleep. It was the best night ever for me. And for Mommy. I think she'll remember this night forever. My little breath tickled her neck as I whispered "mama" and it soothed me too.

I have much more to say about the day, but I'm just so tired I'm going to have to write about them tomorrow.

Love, Sweetest Little Fella

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Tic Tac anyone?

My Mommy is the BEST! She bought me a pack of Tic Tacs today at the store and I have been carrying them around all day. I crawl with them, shake them, throw them, hide them, find them, and laugh at them. They're not opened - so don't worry. Mommy even put tape around the part you're supposed to open. But why would I want to do that? It'd ruin all the fun!

I can't believe that it's snowing in Ohio. Today, it was 61 degrees here in Charlotte, and the breeze felt so good. Yesterday I had to wear a hat during our walk because it was so windy and Mommy didn't want my little ears to get cold. But no hats next week! It's gonna be 71 degrees for four days in a row. Yippee! I am definitely looking forward to seeing snow when we go to Ohio though. Maybe I can go for a sled ride or make a snowball. Hey, I might even be able to catch a snowflake on my tongue. Mmmm.

Our garage smells like poopy diapers. We can't wait for garbage day!!!!!!

Love, Stinky TJ

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Jealousy

My Mom started working in the church nursery for "crawlers" on Sunday. I ignored her almost the entire time...until I noticed other kids climbing on her. When she started reading to a little boy named Jeremy, I lost it. I scampered over to her (love that word), and shoved Jeremy out of the way to sit in her lap. She laughed and made me share her lap with Jeremy. Boo. I did make a new friend though.

I'm sad because my Mommy had to throw out a few of my toys yesterday. She found 3 toys I have on the lead recall list and she went right for my toys and tossed them in the trash. It made her sick because she loved those toys as much as I did, but she wants me to be safe. I can't blame her!

We made our Christmas card yesterday...yippee! I look so cute! Just wait til you see it. Mommy and Daddy are not posting any of the pictures we took so that it's a total surprise when you see them! Let's just say that these pics top last year's card for sure!

Love, TJ the Baby Model

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Life is Tough

Now, I can't really complain about my life. I can pee and poop anywhere, anytime. I eat and drink whenever I want and gaining weight is good!!! I play all day long and have parents who dress me, play with me, change me, feed me, take pictures of me, take pictures of me, and take pictures of me.

However, I can complain about the fact that it doesnt exactly feel like Christmas when it's 65 degrees and sunny outside! We went to Wal-Mart today and got some groceries and Christmas stuff. We walked by people buying Christmas trees and playing Christmas Carols like crazy. There were twinkly lights up and tons of shoppers...and even the bell-ringing Salvation Army guy. BUT, it still didn't feel like Christmas at all. Mommy and Daddy and I spent a lot of time outside today in the backyard. It was just too beautiful to stay inside!

Daddy beat Mommy pretty badly today. I guess I should clarify. Daddy beat Mommy at SOCCER badly today. The score was 7-1. They were playing to 10 but Mommy quit early. Daddy was kicking the ball too hard and Mommy was scared of getting bashed in the face. Can ya blame her? Have you ever seen my Daddy when he's competitive (all the time)? He gets a little intense.


Go SOONERS!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Love, TJ

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Bananas!

I'm a monkey! I love my bananas BUT I will only eat them if Mommy gives them to me like this. I won't even TOUCH them if they're cut up on my tray. I won't eat them off a fork or spoon...but only if I can bite off my own pieces from the whole banana. Ooo ooo ooo aaah aaah aah! I'm a little monkey!

Mommy had tried over and over to get me to eat them as a fruit and not as a baby-food-puree. Well, one day, she sat down on the kitchen floor for a break and I slapped my little hands on the ceramic tile and crawled into her lap. She started to eat a banana and asked if I wanted a bite. Surprise! I ate the whole thing!!! : )

And look! I close my eyes in pictures just like my Mommy! : ) Geez, look how big my feet are in this pictures. I'm so cute.

I'm going to help wrap presents today. That should be great fun. Hahaha. I plan to be a little helper but I think I'll destroy more than help.

I love everybody!!!

love, tj

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Three Cheers for TJ!

Mommy had a Dr. appointment yesterday and she wanted me to come along with her. I know why they call it a waiting room now...we waited a very long time! It was a brand new clean building just upstairs from where I see my doctor. You know, the Shot Lady. Anyway, the waiting room was filled with people waiting to see their doctors and we sat next to a nice grandmotherly woman who talked my Mommy about ME the whole time.

I was interested in the Annapolis Convention on the tv there. (I was the only one watching it, actually.) At one point, a speaker had finished and everyone in the tv audience started clapping. I took that as a cue and I started clapping too! Mommy flipped at how cute and funny it was...and so did the whole waiting room full of people. Wow, I got a huge reaction from clapping my chubby little hands. Cool!

Anyhow, I got antsy after awhile so Mommy wheeled me around a lot. We took the turns around the couches and chairs really fast. She made me think I was gonna fall out a few times. She had me under control, but she made me think I was in danger. Hahhaa! It was awesome!

Then, we "walked" around the room quite a bit...and our name got called. Yeah! The nurse was really nice and I liked the stethascope she had around her neck. I actually went to her and played with the other nurses until Mommy was done. Everyone was amazed at how good I was. Especially Mommy! Three Cheers for TJ!!!

Love, TJ

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My Old Lady

Mommy got the wind taken out of her sails today. You see, since she takes care of me all day, her wardrobe has drastically changed from "working woman professional" to "mommy day care frumpy". She wears sweatshirts and jeans and flip-flops all day long. Well, after some encouragement from Daddy, she got all dressed up for shopping at the mall. She had a corduroy skirt on with brown heels, a new top, and a neat coat from her working days. She thought she looked decent and Daddy did too. So, we waved good-bye to my Dad and proceeded to drive to the mall.

We had a great time looking at the HUGE Christmas trees in the mall, the lights all over the place and tons of red SALE signs in the windows of all the stores. We even went by Tiffany's and looked the the jewelry. It was tons of fun. Well, our final stop was a store called Delia's. Mommy wanted to look at winter hats there but after trying it on, she decided to pass it up for a pair of cute, black patterned tights instead. Before checking out, an employee told her that all tights and knee-high socks were buy two get one free. She showed my Mommy and me the cute items and Mommy asked what she could wear those socks and tights with. The girl described some outfits - none of which fit Mommy's "new" wardrobe. Then, the girl ended her sentence with "and they'll still be age appropriate". AGE APPROPRIATE? Mommy caught her breath and said "no thank-you, just these tights will be fine". Then we left. Mommy sighed as she wheeled my little stroller out to the main mall and whispered to me: AGE APPROPRIATE??? What was that supposed to mean? Being a boy of very few words, I said "goooon"? And Mommy laughed.

I think I called my Mommy a goon at the very worst time possible, but she loved it. I don't think she's a goon. And I don't think I'll be practicing "old lady" anytime soon. "Mama" fits better for now.

Love, TJ

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22 lbs. 2 oz. of 100% BOY!

I am in the 25-50th percentile for height and weight, but I am 100% boy! I'm not kiddin'. I roll around with my trucks and fall into walls and nothin' gets me down. (Except for naptime, but that's another story)

I like my milk straight up, my lady friends older (Sophie, my best pal, is 15 months), and my t.v. remote control. Watch my video and you'll see how I get "zoned" when I get to watch a t.v. show.

Mommy and I are going to finish our Christmas shopping tomorrow. We need to finish early this year because of our traveling and Mommy's surgery. It'll be fun. I can't wait to see more Christmas lights and candy canes.

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I wanna go to school...

My Mommy said I look really cute in my bookbag...but that I'm too young to go to school. Someday though. Someday in a long, long, long time, she said. Then she didn't want to talk about it anymore! : )









I don't think I'm too young. I think I look just right in my bookbag...so I pulled and pulled on her pink jammie pants. She said we'd have "play school" at home like when she was a little girl. Before kindergarten. So, I guess that'll have to do for now. : )

I even tried giving her my flirty eyes...but it still didn't work. It did get her to buy me a McDonald's cheeseburger for lunch though. So, I'm happy!

Don't I look satisfied???

Love, TJ

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gooon

Does anybody know what I mean when I say "gooon"? I have been saying it over and over lately, and my Mommy and Daddy are trying to figure out what I mean. Geez, it's not rocket science! : )

I saw a doggie on our morning walk today. I actually spotted him before Mommy did and I almost flipped out of my stroller. I was so excited! I squealed and laughed and pointed. I love doggies. Where did my doggie go? I miss him!

Mommy let me pick out my outfit today. It doesn't match at all, but it sure is comfy. I'm all about comfort. Speaking of comfort, I cannot wait to eat turkey dinner tomorrow. I wore a sweet outfit last Thanksgiving...but I didn't get to show it off (except in pictures) because my Mommy was hurt and we couldn't go anywhere. This year we're going to be alone too. Hmmm. That makes me sad. But we have a great Christmas to look forward to this year! Yeah!

Well, if you could let my Mom and Dad know what I mean when I saw "gooon", I would appreciate it. So would they! : )

Love, TJ

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10:16

It's only 10:16 and already, today downright sucks!

I got a whole mess of shots at my 1-year visit to the doctor. Dr. Anna is really nice and pretty but I'm starting to wonder about her. I always leave her office pretty sad.

When I got home, Mommy snuggled me a lot and then changed me into sweatpants and my Cool as Ice shirt. Very snuggly outfit. There's nothing like sweatpants, right? I immediately felt better and my Ibuprofen started to kick in. Nap time right? Nope. I just couldn't sleep so Mommy got me out of bed and we played with my new toys. Wow! I'm so happy for having 85 band-aids all over my legs and finger.

I get to try scrambled eggs tomorrow morning. I can't wait! Plus, I'm almost done with bottles completely. Mommy is buying me whole milk today instead of formula. I'm not sure how I'm gonna do with it, but we'll see. Well, I'll write more later.

Love, Big Boy TJ

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Birthday Video

After a few great, happy action shots...the mood quickly changed to: "Get this icing OFF ME!"

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HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME!!!

Happy birthday to me! Happy birthday to meeeeee!

I woke up at 5:12 am because I was so excited! (But mostly because I had peed through my jammies.) Mommy came and got me and sang "Happy Birthday" to me while she changed me and my bed sheets. We went downstairs and did our usual morning bottle thing, and then played with my toys. Daddy went running before work and he sang the Birthday Song to me twice before he left. He said he's gonna sing the Birthday Song to me using each of my nicknames. Wow....it's gonna take him all day long to do that!

Anyhow, my cake party was planned for after lunchtime so Mommy and I did fun things and errands until that time came. I ate grilled cheese and squash for lunch (my favorites) and then they brought out the CAKE! My eyes got really wide when I saw the lit candle. I didn't know how to blow it out so my Daddy and Mommy did it for me. Then, they set the cake in front of me and just watched me with big, goofy smiles on their faces. At first, I was pretty shy about this round, white, sugary thing in front of me. I stuck one finger in it. And tasted the icing. Then I patted it with my hand, and some of the icing stuck to my hand. It went DIRECTLY into my mouth. And ohhhh, it tasted good. I ate more and more little bites of it and then WHACK! I dug into the chocolate cake part. I dug in and had some fun UNTIL...my hands were covered. I felt trapped! What could I do? My hands were suffocating in icing! All I could think to do was cry because I don't know how to say, "GET THIS STUFF OFF OF ME!" in English.

Wahhhhhh! I just cried with white icing and chocolate cake all over my face and hands. I don't really think I ate very much, but it was fun while it lasted. I think I'm glad that I don't get another whole cake until my 2nd birthday. Maybe I'll be more mature then and enjoy it more. Like with a fork or a spoon! : )

Bathtime was fun after that. There were lots of chocolate floaties in the water. Cake floaties, not poop, people! Now, I am napping. It was a pretty traumatic morning for me. I'll post pictures and tell you about opening presents later.

Love, TJ

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Whoa!

"The Greats" (my Great Grandparents, Nonny and Pawpaw) got me an awesome outfit for my birthday, which my parents just adore. MY favorite part of the gift was the blinking Rudolph nose! How cool is that! I'm playing with it in this picture. When you pull the strings, it lights up and I carried it around with me all day. I was sad when Mommy wouldn't let me nap with it. But I got it back when I woke up. Thanks "Greats"!

I saw my birthday cake in the fridge today. Yummy! I cannot wait until my birthday. My parents can't either! It's my first one!

I got to open a few presents early this year...like when my Grandma and Auntie Wee-Wah were here...and when Tenley came yesterday. As you can see, I love when it rains tissue paper! Thank you EVERYONE for being so loving and generous and sweet to me! I love you!

I'll have some great pictures of me eating cake tomorrow! See you then! Love, TJ

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My Boy Scooter

This is a picture of Mommy and Scooter. Daddy took it right before Scooter left to be with his new family. Zac, Scooter's new friend, called Daddy a few times on their way to Ohio and even sent a few pictures to his cell phone. We got to see pictures of Scooter sleeping on the front seat and pictures of Scooter next to National Park signs. How cool is that! Scooter's gonna have a lot of fun experiences ahead. But that hasn't made it a whole lot easier for Mommy or Daddy.

There have been lots of tears today. Lots. THANK GOODNESS THERE'S ME!!!!

I will never forget you Scooter! Even though I am just shy of 1 year old...I promise never to forget you. You made me laugh all the time and I want you to know that I love you!
On a sillier note, Mommy made turkey cookies in honor of Thanksgiving and our football party on Saturday. Aren't they silly looking???

Love, Timothy Jonah Budic "The Almost One-Year Old"

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I want a rematch!!!

Last night, we had a big competition in our household!!! It was Mommy, Scootie, and me against Daddy in Nerf Basketball. Ummmm, I'm embarrassed to say this but....we lost. How could we lose 3 against 1? I'll tell you how. My Mommy shrieked like a cheerleader (no offense, i love cheerleaders) when Daddy would try to get the ball from her and a few times she just threw it at him because she didn't want to get an elbow in the face. What a Baby she is! Scooter was good at stealing the ball and I was good at being cute. Anyhow, I had a great dunk at the end of the game but we still lost 5-0. It was so much fun though!

Tenley came to see me today for my early birthday! She brought me lots of presents and at this point, I have no choice but to be a Clemson Tigers fan. I'll show you some of the clothes I got...you'll love 'em too! : ) Second to Ohio sports teams, I LOVE ME SOME TIGERS!

After I opened my prizes, we went to the US Whitewater Center to hang out for awhile. It was the most gorgeous 76 degrees I've ever seen. Ahhhh. What a day. Well, I'll write more later!

Love, TJ

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Big Boy Haircut

I went in for my first Big Boy "Hairhuck" and it was a day to remember. I sat in the waiting area on my Mommy's lap like a good boy. We had to wait for a little while and I didn't make a peep. I just watched the lady in black cut the old man's hair. (Not my old man's hair...he's letting his grow) When it was my turn, I sat with my Mommy in the big swirly chair and we both got to wear a cape! Mine was cool blue with a ton of doggies all over it. Mommy's was just plain black.

Anyhow, I sat there pretty quietly while my hair got sprayed with water and a comb was run through it. Of course, I heard numerous comments about my "beautiful locks of hair" and it made me proud. The lady cut lots of length off my hair...and I had more of a mullet than I thought. She even trimmed my sideburns. Wow! I am a true man.

Mommy didn't think she'd get emotional about my first haircut. She really wasn't sentimental of my hair ... but rather of the fact that I was old enough to need a haircut. She's actually pretty upset that I'm turning one. Wanna hear a secret? She missed me so much last night that she came into my room around 10:00 and sang me a song while patting me on the back. I think she sorta wished I'd wake up and want to be rocked, but I slept right through it.

Alright, I need to go play with Scooter because this is his last night in our house. That's all I can say for now.

Love, TJ

PS Isn't this a cute picture? I forget how old I am here, but I look so adorable!

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Homemade Orange Juice

Today, I ate mandarin oranges with breakfast. I had a little piece of an orange on my lap that I was saving for later...but it fell off when Mommy picked me up out of my highchair. She didn't see it fall on the floor. But I did. Oh yes, I went right for it and stomped on it a few times before smearing it all over the floor. It only took me seconds to make pure orange juice...but I wasn't allowed to drink it. Oh well.


It's about 77 here in Charlotte today. I love the warm weather because I go for walks more often. I'm about to go on another walk now...and then for a run in the babyjogger with Mommy later. (I didn't wear gloves today in the heat...this pic was from a freezing morning...fyi)


Mommy is working in the nursery now at our church. She works in the Crawler's Room which is where I go, so I'll get to hang with Mommy in the nursery the first Sunday of each month. Cool, huh!


My Mommy's cousin just got engaged last night. How exciting! Mommy was so happy when she got the call. Lynnie even asked her to be in the wedding. Wow! So now, Mommy gets to be in 2 weddings! Lynn's in May and my Aunt Carey's in June. I get to be in my Aunt Carey's wedding also! I'm totally pumped about that. I will look pretty hot in my tux and tall socks - or whatever she makes me wear. I'm really working on walking so that I can do it really, really well by the time June 21st rolls around. Yeah for weddings! I love love! : )


(Sorry Daddy, I know I'm talking like a girl right now. I promise to be more rough and tough in my next blog!)



Love, TJ-Tux-Boy

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Santa and TJ Video...hope it works!!!

Mommy and I are going Christmas shopping tomorrow. I've never been Christmas shopping before so I can't wait! Plus, I'm not spending my own money - which really works for me!

I'm not sure I ever made an official announcement on this blog about my Mommy's book, but she's going to be published! The release date is not set yet, but she sent in the last details and illustrations just last week. We're all very excited about Ebenezer Flea and the Right Thing to Do. She's working on a website to help market the book. As soon as it looks decent, she'll let you know the web address. That's it for now! love, tj

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Magic Trick

Hello Everybody!

Today, I performed my very first magic trick. Mommy put my down for my morning nap, and when she came in to get me a little while later, I was standing in my crib...without any pants on!! Yep, I magically took them off and threw them on the floor right in front of the crib. I cannot reveal my secrets...so please don't even ask me how I did it.

I can wave bye-bye now! Yeppers! I do it backwards though so it looks like I'm waving bye-bye to myself. I open and close my fingers toward myself and it's really, really cute. Mommy will try to catch it in a picture soon.

Tomorrow, I am going in for my very first professional haircut. Mommy's not doing it - don't worry. (she does Scooter's hair and we all know how that looks) My Mom and Dad are taking me in for a new look because my mullet is reappearing. And, as much as I love the south, I don't want to fit in too much! Hahaha, that's such an untrue stereotype...most of the time.

Okay, gotta go blow green boogies out of my nose!

Love, TJ-the-lovable-green-booger-monster

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Dr. Seuss!

I love my bathtime!!! I like to crawl around and splash in the water. Lately, I've been discovering new "things" in the tub that are attached to my body. Mommy hopes I forget about those "things" soon. : )

Grandma and Mommy gave me a funny hairstyle and I look like I should be in a Dr. Seuss movie. But I'm cute, right???

My favorite part of my bath is actually watching the tub fill up with water. The noise used to scare me, but I like it now. See me watchin' it? I'm a big boy. Look at my mus-cles!

Love, Clean TJ

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Santa is Scary

I got my picture taken with Santa the other day....and it turned out just like every other little kid with Santa for the first time. I screamed and my face was more red than my hair. But what do you expect? I'm just a little dude.

I do have to say one thing. I looked pretty hot in my new outfit! : )

Love, TJ-the-Santa-hater

(but that doesn't mean I don't want Christmas presents, okay Santa? I just think you're kinda scary!) MY PICTURE WITH SANTA WILL BE POSTED LATER, OKAY?

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What is Victoria's Secret?

Daddy, Mommy, Grandma and Auntie Melissa and I went to the BIGGEST mall ever! It was in Concord and we had so much fun. I got lots of clothes and toys for my birthday coming up. Grandma gave me some of her french fries at lunchtime and I liked them a lot. Mmmmm.

The main thing Mommy wanted to find were shoes for my feet. See, I have some big, big feet. They are really fat and kind of look like bread dough rising. Yeah, I'm not kidding. So, she's been finding it nearly impossible to fit shoes in my feet. Well, we looked in about 19 stores (for real) and decided to check out Payless as a last resort. Guess what! I got two pairs of killer kicks there. Check out my picture! I'm also decked out in my new clothes. Thanks Grandma and Auntie Melissa!!!

We decided to go into Victoria's Secret as a joke to take some pictures of me in there. Well, one of the ladies who worked there didn't think it was very funny. Mommy wanted to say something to her after the mean look she gave us, but decided to be nice and just smile and leave. The mean lady glared at us, made some eye-rolling gesture, and picked up the phone. I bet she was gonna tell on us! Too bad, lady! We got some cute pictures of me holding a thong. So there! (Mommy says it'll be 30 more years before I'm allowed back in there...or any place like it!)

When we got to the car, Mommy put me in my carseat and noticed I had peed completely through my diaper, onesie, pants and coat. Yes, I had that much pee in me! So, I got a new sweat outfit at Toys R Us and wore it on the way home. Maybe I should pee through my diaper more....I get things when I do it!!

Only a few more days until I am ONE!!!! love, TJ

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I'll only say it once...

Scooter has found a new, perfect home! My Mommy and Daddy are very sad, yet relieved. Scooter is going to live with Mommy's and Daddy's friend from College and his dad back in Ohio. We'll get to visit him whenever we want to! He'll have a 40-acre strawberry patch to run around in and more attention than he does now. Which he deserves! Mommy and Daddy feel sick about having him live somewhere else but at the same time, it's a perfect fit for Scooter. He'll be in paradise by the New Year!

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