Summer is Coming

I know summer is coming. Granted, it snowed last week but I know summer will come soon because the Sno Shack is set up in my local Walgreen’s parking lot! Oh, the sweet sight of a Sno Shack makes my heart go pitter-patter! Reminds me of the good times I had at the Borah Pool growing up. Tiger's Blood/Pina Colada is still my favorite combo.

Change

Well, this post is long overdue…

Things are a-changin’ in the life of the Nagels. On March 17, Brett accepted a new job as Assistant Golf Professional at SpurWing Country Club in Boise, ID. It wasn’t totally out of the blue. Brett had been in contact with the Head Pro at SpurWing for a couple months. It came down to a handful of candidates and Brett came out on top. And we’re so thankful he did. Brett’s new position is an exciting opportunity for him to progress in his field, gain valuable country club experience, meet new people who love golf, and play more golf himself. There wasn’t an opportunity for advancement in Idaho Falls and we knew that one day that we'd have to pack it all up and head...somewhere. A year-round position in Boise couldn’t have been a better stepping stone. We’ll be closer to my side of the family and Brett's brother and still a short four hour drive to our family and friends in Idaho Falls.

But…change is hard. When I first moved to Idaho Falls in 2003 I can’t say I liked it much. But then we planted roots, bought a house, started a family, explored the area, and met some really great friends. Leaving isn’t going to be easy and our emotions have run the gamut; excited, nervous, sad, overwhelmed, humbled. Brett is leaving “home” and I’m leaving a place I’ve grown to love. That will be hard. Yet, we’re excited and thrilled about new adventures and opportunities in Boise.

Brett moved to Boise on April 8 to start work. Austin and I are staying in Idaho Falls and I will continue to work until we sell our home. My parents have graciously allowed Brett to live with them for the time being and we’re so thankful for their support. We put our house on the market April 13 and have had a few lookers, but no offers yet. I'm optimistic (most of the time) and know there is a plan for us. I'm trying hard to be patient. It’s been a long six weeks already and I’m hoping we don’t have to spend the entire summer apart. Anyone know of some buyers in the Idaho Falls market? :)

Austin misses daddy. He asks about him constantly and lights up when we get to visit him. He’s growing up so quickly and reaching milestones that I don’t want Brett to miss. Since we’ve been separated, Austin has transitioned into a toddler bed, poo-pooed in the potty, counted past two, sang some ABCs, and learned to jump. And watch out cause the kid will recite everything you say! He’s such a trooper and given me lots of hugs and kisses when I’ve needed them. But he also has his “off” days and I wonder if he’s confused by daddy’s absence and longing for a little rough-housing time with him. Those are the days I try to drop everything and come up with some creative game to make him giggle and smile. Recently it’s been the monster hiding behind the couch game. He loves that one!

Oh, and I almost forgot to mention a wonderful part of this whole thing! I finally get to be a SAHM! (That’s stay-at-home-mom for all you working girls out there) Bye, bye 8 – 5pm. Hello, 24/7. Now, I have to admit I’m nervous as hell. This is something I’ve really wanted to do for some time, but I’m not sure how I’m going to handle such a big change in my life. I’ve grown accustomed to the daily grind, juggling work/home, and getting things done at last minute. I talk to “grown-ups” all day and I’m challenged professionally. I’m not sure how that’s going to evolve into full-time mommy mode. But, I’ve realized that at the end of the day my family is what matters most and what brings me the most joy in life. Austin deserves my time and I want to be there to support him and watch him grow. And I can’t even imagine two kids in daycare. It makes me exhausted just thinking about it. So, if baby #2 is ever going to come along then I better get moving with this SAHM thing!

And one last little tidbit. Brett taught a lesson to a member at the club the other day. The member told him it was the best lesson he’s ever had. I’d say he’s fitting in pretty well already.

Austin Turns 2!!!

On May 4, my baby turned 2. I can't believe it. Where does the time go? Oh yes, I know...sleepless nights, dirty diapers, rolling, sitting, clapping, standing, first giggle, first step, first tooth, first word, first 1/2 sentence, first poop in the potty! All the highs and lows mixed together to equal one incredible experience with my first born. Austin is so smart and fun and amazes us daily. He has a sweet and easy-going personality and is quick with a "thank you" and a "sorry" these days. He's also a climber, as most 2 year olds are I suppose. He pals around with his buds at daycare and lights up at the sight of their faces each morning. He's often recites their names; Carley, Cooper, Bryce, etc...

Since Austin's big day was on a week night, we held a small party for him on Saturday, May 8 at Blast Off (a local play place). It was a Mickey Mouse Clubhouse theme, something very familiar in our house these days. I made my good friend Sadie's made-from-scratch Magnolia Vanilla Cupcakes (i.e. crack cakes b/c of their addictive quality) and they were a hit. Austin was all smiles when we sang happy birthday and loved ripping open his gifts. We have such wonderful friends and family that joined us to show support for our growing boy. We love you all!

Here's the birthday boy with his cupcake and 2 candles...

Riley (with dad Tim) enjoying his party favors...

Little Isley, already a cover model (with mom Saige and dad Corey)...

Having fun playing their hearts out at Blast Off! Austin, Isley, Riley and Ryker...

A big splash to end an eventful party!

And of course a hug for Mom...