What's For Dinner?

With Robyn taking on a new role as a Pampered Chef consultant, Jaxson thought he could lend a helping hand in the cooking for the evening. Mommy and daddy wouldn't let the little guy handle any of the sharp tools, but we did let him chew on the recipes - somebody had to do the taste testing, even if it was just paper.





The little guy, in the past few days, has really begun to pay attention to what is going on his world. As he swings in his chair, he simply waits for one of us to walk by so he can stare us down and give us just enough of a whimper to make us feel guilty enough to come pick him up. The young man sure does know how to melt our hearts by staring at us with those big blue eyes.


In the least, the landscape at the dinner table has taken on a whole new look.

It's The Thought That Counts

A few days late I know; but, I still got it documented.

Happy Birthday Big Papi.

Who would have none that someone your age would still be able to walk......ew, that hurts.

Jaxson would sing you Happy Birthday, but he can't talk, so a Happy Birthday grunt is all we can offer.

Thank you for all you do for Robyn and I.

The World is Flat.

Technology is amazing, truly amazing.

Now that cell phones run our lives, and if you don't believe me, leave your phone off and out of sight for an entire day and see how "naked" you feel all day long. Our societies dependency on technology is an entirely new concept that 10 years ago was unheard of. Ten years ago the most technology most people had was a pager or maybe a phone that came in a bigger-than-life carrying case that required a battery the size of a small baby.

Curious as to where this rave is coming from, let me explain.

Last week I was at UTA for a presentation to the grad students, and I ran into some old college friends that I have not seen since Jaxson was born. Instead of asking me if I had any photos in my wallet she could see; she asked me if I had any pictures on my phone.

The phone has replaced the wallet as a man's place to store his photos? If you think about it, that is a profound switch in the way we think as people and the way in which we interact with one another on a technological approach. The phone has once again taking on another aspect of our daily lives.

ZZZZZZZZZ......

That was the only noises heard from the bedroom last night. The little bambino sleep a whole night without waking up. Robyn and I honestly began to think that Jaxson was half-owl, half- boy, since he liked being up at night so much.

However; last night, he confirmed to his mommy and daddy that he was all boy. He slept all night, woke up and ate, farted, cried, then went back to sleep.

That's my boy!!!!!!

Here Comes the Plane....

Not "De Plane" from Fantasy Island, but the plane carrying a load of rice headed for Jaxson Municipal Airport.

The little guy has moved up to "baby oatmeal" and a variety of fruit helpings. He has done surprisingly well keeping the food actually in his mouth versus on the walls and/or his mom and dad. I am sure all that will change as the hands begin making coordinated moves towards the bowls of food.

Our Little Monkey

Read the Directions Next Time.

We, as men, know that directions are for wussies. Why read the directions when you can simply look at the pictures and follow the diagrams.


"Um, dad, I think the padded stuff needs to go on the outside of the seat. I can't see the colorful toys I am suppose to enjoy playing with. Mom, tell dad to get me out of this thing and follow the directions next time."

Reflections of Himself.

Caught the little guy gazing at himself in the "fish-eye" style mirror on his swingset. Not sure if he was watching himself, or the weird guy with the camera trying to get a cool shot.


The world may never know.....

Story Time.

"Pull up a seat kiddos....oh wait, never mind, I got a seat for you right here next to me..."

Where's Tigger?

You Talking to Me?

And the Little One Said, "Roll Over, Roll Over.."

At a certain point in boy's life, he crosses the threshold from boy to man. To every boy this is a different event. Their first deer hunt, first job, first kiss, first ticket....etc.

Tonight, Jaxson came one step closer to becoming a man. During a day of pure boredom from being scared to death by the local media that the world was about to enter the second ice age and all life will come to a screeching halt in North Texas due to a WINTER BLAST......Jaxson got fed up with it and rolled over to ignore the t.v. Yes sir, you heard it hear first, Jaxson had his first official "Stomach-to-back-no-help-here-thank-you-very-much-look-what-I-can-do-now-roll-over."

Luckily daddy had his camera ready to point , shoot, and captured the moment on video (well, it was actually the second one that I caught on tape). As soon as I can figure out how to post video on the blog, it will be up, so until then, the photos will have to do.

Old Man Take a Look at My Life....

Neil Young wrote those words in his song "Old Man," and as we ponder Jaxson's turning of 4-Months old, I can't think of any words that fit better.....

So, as I sit her and ponder the last four months and wonder where all the time has gone, I can only imagine what the next 4 months will hold in store for the Wheat Clan..

Jaxson is a wise man in his old age and likes to ponder the finer points of life, so he asked me to sit him in his favorite rocking chair so he could reflect on the many months that have come and gone since coming into this world. He pondered what he could have done better, who he could have helped more, who he could have loved more, what regrets he held; but only one thought kept coming into his mind.......

"Man, I sure wish I wouldn't have ridden the little horse to town, right after I ate. That sure was a mess."

But, on a serious note. This has been an incredible journey so far, and I am blessed to have been given a son that is as perfect as Jaxson...

Thanks Lil' Buddy and have a Happy 4 Month Birthday......

Amen To That.

Rubber Ducky, Your the One....

Bert and Ernie got nothing on this kid during bath time.

You just can't get any cuter than this.

Like a Roman God

Bring me some grapes!!!!

Gatorade for Kids

Yesterday milk. Today Pedia-lite. Tomorrow...the world.

Jaxson had to make his first "non-scheduled" doctor's appointment today. The little guy has been hacking pretty bad the last few days, so we took him to see the doc, and now he has an ear ache. Taking Jaxson to the doctor is like taking your new car to the mechanic. You haven't figured out all the normal, sounds and rattles, so you gotta take it in when you hear something weird just to make sure. And just like a mechanic, they diagnose you with something you didn't even know you had. Nothing severe, I think we caught it early enough, nothing a few antibiotics won't cure.

He has a small cold as well, so for the next 7-10 days he gets a dose of Pedia-lite with a chaser of "boob-juice." The doc says all should be good in a week, so until then he is enjoying a new drink in his diet.

Congrats to the New Couple

All of our best to Tiffany and Justin who are currently enjoying their honeymoon in the sunny Florida weather at DisneyWorld. Enjoy being married, it is a special experience where each day only gets better and better. You will have your ups and downs, but the path will eventually lead you to a pot of gold that is priceless. Enjoy the ride, relish the moments, and create opportunities to be with one another as ofter as possible.

What a wonderful weekend I had spending time with my extended family. Thank you to Jimmy, Aunty, and T.J. for being a tremendous trio of host. We can't say thank you enough.

Congratulations once again!!!!

Happy New Year to All!!!

I may be a day behind, but it is the thought that counts.

The Wheat Family has been in Houston since Thursday, so this is my first opportunity to wish everyone a Happy New Year.

Jaxson has blessed our lives this past year and the support from everyone has been more than we could have ever asked for. Jaxson has led Robyn and I to become better people, better friends, and better sons and daughters. We have deepened relationships with friends and family and we only hope that the happiness and blessed journey continues.

I am not a big believer in New Year's resolutions; however, the one that I have put forth for myself is to be the most loving father, most loving husband, most caring friend, and best person I can. So, to you and yours, have a wonderful year and I hope all your dreams and aspirations for the next 12 months become what you want them too.

Things a Dad Should Know..

Reading over a few of my personal favorite blogs, I came across a list, "72 Things a Dad Should Know." I figured, "Hey, I'm a dad, let me add my two-cents." So, here a few of my favorites plus some of my own.

Favorites:
1. Don't worry, your dad didn't know what he was doing, either.
7. Your child, at birth, already has a deeply complicated relationship with his mother, and, for the first year, you are only a curiosity.
9. Baby gas is lessened with a good nipple connection during feeding, which decreases air intake.
Assuring that his lower lip is flipped out, not pursed, helps.
16. Reason boys are better: They cannot get pregnant.
23. The first time you change your son's diaper and he pees all over you is not an accident. It's foreshadowing.
33. Overalls are not only cute, they provide a convenient handle.
39. Beware your child's uncles, who will teach your kid dirty words, introduce him to liquor, and give him gifts of drums, archery sets, and possibly matches.
61. Acceptable reading material: Dr. Seuss, Where the Wild Things Are, Harold and the Purple Crayon, Curious George, and any of the following by Roald Dahl -- James and the Giant Peach, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, and Danny the Champion of the World.
66. The harder they play, the earlier they sleep.
69. They never really outgrow the claw.
"No, Dad, no! Not the claw!" means "Apply the claw, please."

My Entries: (Place them in the lists where you feel acceptable)

* Pee-Pee Tee-Pee's are the most worthless baby accessory. If you have time to place a Tee-Pee on his Pee-Pee, then go rent a How-To video on diaper changing.
* No matter how many time you look at your son/daughter, you will love them more each time you look at them. I promise.
* You wife will be ten times as beautiful when she becomes a mom.
* Playing Mr. Mom for the first time will be nerve-racking and priceless at the same time.
* Christmas is not just for the kids, it allows adults to be kids again.

Last, but certainly not least:
* True love is not experienced unless you have held your child for the first time.

26 on the 26th!!!

Happy Birthday to Robbie!!!!

The gang gathered at Mama's Pizza in Arlington to celebrate a wonderful day for a wonderful person. We haven't had Mama's Pizza since we were in the hospital a few day after Jaxson's arrival, so it was hands down the place to go. Cold beer and hot pizza, mmmmm-mmmmm-buddy.

Today, Robyn turns 26 years young. I have known Robyn for almost 7 years, and every moment has been a blessing. She has taught me how to love life and how to enjoy life's moments as they come your way.

Happy Birthday to a beautiful women, a tremendous mom, a caring person, and my best friend.

(Jaxson told me to tell you Happy Birthday too; he was sleepy and needed his rest).

Someone Came Down the Chimney Last Night??

Jaxson woke this morning and wandered into the kitchen, and found his first Christmas morning experience of Santa. Robyn and I never heard anyone come in, and he even ate a cookie and had some of Jaxson's milk. He left Jaxson some new diapers, clothes, and some educational toys.

I wonder if reindeer really know how to fly??

Christmas Eve at the Wheat Residence

First time Robyn and I hosted for Christmas Eve; and I loved it. The sounds of children laughing and playing with toys just unwrapped. Glasses of eggnog, cookies, cake, and tamales - a staple of any Texas Christmas..

Snapped a few classic family portraits:

Now Jaxson's Stocking is Hung by the Chimney..

Hand made gifts are worth more than any monetary gift could ever be worth, especially when made with love and care. Aunty Esther delivered Jaxson's first stocking this past week, and I do have to say that she may have found her second career. Robyn and I were absolutely floored at the detail and time spent on his stocking.

For years to come, we will look at Jaxson's stocking and remember Esther and the love she has for our "Little Elf."

Thank you Esther.

The Tradition Continues....

As another year passes and we are mere hours away from Santa shimming down the chimney, the Wheat family continued our traditional dinner at Edelweiss in Fort Worth last night. For over 25 years, the entire Wheat and Chamber families have gathered at Edelweiss on Christmas Eve (or the day before if it falls on a Sunday), to connect back to our German roots at the best German restaurant in the area.

Bernhard is the owner, singer, and host for the evening. He will serenade you with traditional renditions of Blue Christmas, We Wish You a Merry Christmas, and will also chime in with some traditional German carols and even the Happy Birthday tune if requested. Helga, the lady on the piano, will even play Silent Night on the saw, yes a saw, just like the one you would use to cut wood. Very Cool.

The thing about Edelweiss, if you don't want to have a good time, then don't show up. By the time the night is over, you will have done the Chicken Dance at your table, yell "YO!!" more times than you can count, and chime in with Bernhard when he sings.."And please drink more beer!!!" and chant Ziggy-Zagga-Ziggy-Zagga-hoi-hoi-hoi to a room full of strangers.

Jaxson joined us for his first Edelweiss experience, even though he isn't old enough to indulge in the Jagersnitzel, Keokee coffee, fried potatoes, or the darkest beer in Fort Worth; he was there to at least experience the atmosphere that is so unique to this diamond in the rough.

To all the members of my family that were not able to attend; we missed you, we love you, and have a wonderful and beautiful Christmas and a safe New Year.

To David and Dale - Craig, Chad, and I missed you boys at the dinner table. We raised a glass for you. Keep those fires under control and the families safe.

Merry Christmas to all!!!

Sporting the New Threads

Jaxson would like to thank Jacob and Esther for this early Christmas presents. With one shopping day left (thank goodness) until Christmas, Jaxson asked if he could wear his new clothes shopping so he could impress the ladies.

Eat your heart out girls....

I Got Your Bow Right Here

In every kids life, there is the unavoidable fact that they will have their picture taken with a bow on their head. It is acceptable in our society, it is a fact of life. So, with that being said, here is Jaxson first ever "Bow Head" photo.

Vogue Photo Shoot

"Strike a pose, there's nothing to it; vogue."








I can't believe I just incorporated a Madonna song into my blog. I need help, or a drink - which ever comes first.

Lost in the Fluff

Don't you wish you could sleep in something that looked this comfortable??

Heads Up.

I think we are about to enter a whole new dimension in the next few weeks, and according to all the books, Jaxson is right on schedule with his growth and development.

We are days away from our little buddy having his first "rollover." He will assume his "swan-yoga" pose, but hasn't yet figured out how to get his momentum going in the proper direction. Lifting and turning his head while in this position has become easy, but we still haven't mastered the next step in the process.

Just a Little Snip.

Although, not his official first haircut (thanks to Uncle Michael for cutting his mullet off with me behind closed doors), Jaxson attended his first public pruning session.

Robyn and Mimi helped Jaxson look suave and distinguished by trimming the loose ends.

For the next haircut, I am thinking mowhawk with a lightining bolt shaved into the side of his head......maybe not.

My First Teddy

Thank you to the Mancil Family for the early Christmas present for Jaxson. If I recall correctly, this is his first official "Teddy Bear." Not only does it serve it's purpose as a teddy, he also doubles as a blanky.

Open up the bear's soft tummy, and out pops a blanket. Anytime, Anywhere.

Jaxson has begun to be very aware of his surroundings. Noticing familiar voices, sounds, smells and textures. He has also started to grasp items with purpose, and not just as something to hold onto while eating or "doing his business."

His favorite item to hold onto right now seems to be his teddy, who we will now refer to as "Buster the Bear." So, thank you again to the Mancil's, you can be the proud givers of Jaxson first security blanket.

Walk it Off......

Scars and dirt make a boy a man. They are going to get bruises, scraps, cuts; and blood will flow from a little boy more times than you could possibly imagine, and Jaxson is already making those statements true.

Just barely three months in, and Bambino already has two scars. (He makes his daddy so proud). Grant it, neither of them actually came from him doing anything; but, a scar is a scar.

The very first, came from other boys - imagine that. I went to pick up him up last week from Birdie's house, and the first words I hear when I walk through the door are..."Well, Jaxson got a scratch today, it didn't bleed long. Two of the boys were rough-housing next to him while I was feeding him and that scratched him, I'm so sorry." Sorry, what the hell for, you just made me proud. My boy is already learning how to defend himself. What doesn't kill you only makes your stronger - right?

The second war wound is a different story.

The most wonderful woman in the world (Robyn) was trimming the little guy's fingernails, all seemed well at the time. As the time passes we notice that Jaxson has been crying more than often, and just seems to be restless.......this is where it gets good.

I'm sitting in our room getting ready, and Robyn walks in with tears in her eyes....

"Oh my god, I cut him. He's bleeding, I hurt our little buddy!"

Well, in the heat of the moment, Robyn accidentally gave Jaxson his first full blown open wound. It wasn't bad, but from Robyn's reactions, you would have thought that she made Jaxson have nine digits instead of the normal ten. But, the little guy handled it like a trooper and walked-it-off after letting us know what we did to him. I am sure he will get us back some day.....

All is good back in Wheatville, wounds are healing and fingernails are once again growing.

3 Months and Still Kicking.

Hard to believe that my little buddy is already three months old. Seems like yesterday I was changing his diapers and sucking boogers out of his nose - oh, wait, I was doing that yesterday.

Happy 3-Month Birthday to my Little Bambino....

Like a Deer in Headlights

Parade of Lights

When I was little, I went to a few parades. I recall one in Fort Worth, one at Disney World, and I watched more than my fair share of Rose Bowl and Thanksgiving Day parades. This past Saturday night Jaxson, Robyn, and her family and myself went to downtown Arlington to see the Parade of Lights. There was a crisp in the air, children's laughter bouncing through the streets, and toothless bald middle aged men asking us if we would like to buy any Santa hats that light up....what a wonderful night.

It really was a nice little treat. The floats ranged from full-blown floats with lights and decorations, to BoyScouts on bicyles with battery powered light strands. Their was a rumor that some Cowboys were making an apperance, but I guess they were to busy preparing to whoop-up on the Giants. Since we now have sole possession of first place in our division; hey, NY - take a backseat on the Romo Bus of Love!!! (Actually, they did show up, but they were the real ones with horses and spurs).

So, the Little Bambino got his first parade experience, I didn't get suckered into buying anything, and we wound up having a good time. All is good.