The Jansens in Chicagoland!

MOVING!!!

2009-01-11T20:42:00.001-06:00

Website that is!!! Check us out at www.jansenfamily2009.shutterfly.com

Hello?

2009-01-02T00:36:00.003-06:00

Howdy folks! Yes, we are still here, the Secret Service hasn't totally blocked us off. (BTW, the Obamas are back from their Hawaiin vacation - the police road block is back up tonight.)

Anyway, blogging will be very few and in between for about the next couple months while I take a little break from the world of medical school and finish up what I started 5 years ago - something called a PhD. If I get a break (like right now in the lab at 12:39AM!) and I am not with Hannah, I will try to post pictures as I know we have a new follower, (Great) Auntie Stacey who got a new laptop for Christmas!!!

So here goes and so sorry if this is all random. I am just going to summarize our December for you and you can look at ALL the pictures at your leisure!

1) we got a real live Christmas tree this year. Actually we got it at Thanksgiving when Hannah's BFF (i.e. my sister), Uncle Tha, Emily, and Julie came up to Chicago to see us. I think we will continue to get real live Christmas tree.

2) The first week of December I went to San Francisco for the American Society of Hematology Annual meeting. I have gone to about 4 of these meetings and Hannah (3/4) have stayed home with Tim. They do really great together and I can just focus on the meeting. This year's trip was special b/c I also got to see my good friend Lynn, her daughter Abigail, and her mom. (Last year I got to see my friend Amber and her family in Atlanta.)

3) After I came home from ASH, Hannah and I headed down to Nashville for a week! We got to see her Poppa and Sallie and hang out with my sisters. We also got to visit with my friend Heidi whom I have known since Kindergarten (yeah, so that's 24 years ago!!) and her 2 beautiful daughters Ruby and Violet. Hannah also got to meet and visit with my 5th grade teacher, Mrs. Taylor. It was lovely to see everyone! Who knows, in less than 2 years time we may see you a lot more!

4) We got home and prepared for Poppa, Sallie, and Uncle Todd to come up for Christmas in Chicago (and probably the FIRST, LAST, and ONLY-read on to find out why). Hannah had a GREAT Christmas. Thank you to EVERYONE for all the gifts. Santa left a sled full of presents for Hannah. She made sure to leave him some of the cookies she made and decorated.

5) So, the Jansen Family Christmas in Chicago 2008 will be a once in a lifetime thing never to be repeated. Here's the short version - our guests were delayed getting in Tuesday and delayed 2 days in getting out!!! Now you may be wondering how much snow we had, HARDLY ANY!!! Yes, the weather was COLD and there sleet/ice from earlier but nothing near a blizzard. we all had a great Christmas but let's go somewhere warm next year!!! This white Christmas thing is over-rated!!!

So now that you made it to the end....here are some pictures or click here to go to album

Circus

2008-11-22T22:30:00.004-06:00

We went to the circus today! It was mine and Hannah's first circus experience and it was totally AWESOME!!! Hannah promises to take me again when she is bigger. My favorite part were the elephants. Hannah liked the goats riding on the shetland ponies and the tigers the best! It was the greatest show on earth!
Hannah with her baby tiger souvenir.
Let the circus begin!

Finale.

Ballet

2008-11-22T22:23:00.002-06:00

Today was family visiting day at ballet. This is a special treat b/c parents are usually not allowed in the classroom except for the first day of class and one other assigned day. Hannah was so excited to show me all her ballet dances. Well, she was still very shy but she did answer th questions, which is progress from the first day of class. Her dear friend Josie was so sweet to stay with Hannah and they held hands through most of the class.

Click here to see album or watch slideshow below

Pictures

2008-11-15T23:10:00.005-06:00

Hannah getting ready for the Chicago winter!
Working on Kumon books with Mommy...Hannah did the BIG letters and Mommy did the lower case letters.
Hannah drawing on her chalkboard wall....
Can you tell it's a person with body parts?!?!
A chocolate dot on the forehead...and no we did not let her eat the whole thing!
Playing matching with her cards while Mommy was on call.
Ballet class with Miss Hannah.
Grandma and puppy dog at the Lego store mall.
Working on a Maze with Poppa at Rock Bottom!

YUMO Granola bar!!!

Updates...

2008-11-15T21:44:00.006-06:00

Okay so I have much updating to do so here goes....get yourself settled in for a LONG post. =)

1) yes, we have moved, been moved, and are enjoy our new place. Hannah got to paint her room green (a misty light green from our friends, THANKS SANDY, DAN, and JOSIE!) We also painted the liing room burn orangey color (not UT orange) which was left over from our bonus room in Memphis!! Then today we FINALLY got table and chairs for the dining room (yes, we actually have a dining room. for those who have visited us in Chicago, this apt is quite the spacious space- 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, separate dining room, AND PLENTY of room for visitors!!! Now don't get too excited, it is still a very old building and University owned.)
Daddy's little helper when Mommy is on call!
Hannah is GREAT at swiffering!
Uncle Todd and Hannah were trying to hide from all the moving duties!

2) We're not the only ones excited about living in the building. Hannah's friend, Eva, lives 2 floors above us. The girls can talk to each other through the bathroom vents, yes, 2 floors above us. Imagine what it is like for the people between us! They see each other pretty much ALL day long - 8-9 hours- and then get to play together again when they get home sometimes. You would think they are sick of each other (and they do have their moments) but when it's time for one to leave, they BOTH cry like they would never see each one again! Such great friendships at an early age!

3) So med school for me...I have just finished my rotation in Pediatrics and I LOVED IT!! It's not a big surprise really b/c for those who have known me for a long time, know that I have always wanted to be a pediatrician. Well, that's not changed and it's now most definite that I will be applying for residency in Pediatrics this time next year (save the dates folks for June 2010!!!)

4) Of course, last but not least, Election 2008. I am happy to say we are neighbors with our President-elect. Yes, truly we live only a few blocks from him but of course we are not the lucky ones allowed anywhere within 3 blocks of his street!!! it is nonetheless vey exciting. I have even seen him take his kids to school, you can't miss the long line of police cars and black SUVs!!! But what I really want to share is how proud I am that Hannah knows something a little about elections and the presidency at this age and during a time when people don't even know whether Africa is a continent or a country! We watched the election on tv with Eva and her family and they both knew who Brack Obama was or rather knew of him. They even asked if we voted for Obama! I told her I should have taken her to vote with me but she told me she was too young! Next election, she is going with me. Typical Hyde Park and University of Chicago 3 year olds I tell you Regardless of whom you personally voted for or your views on this next President, you cannot deny a 3 year old the right to learn about the President of the United States or that SHE too could be President someday...if she so chooses (but for now Hannah wants to be a Pediatrician like mom and her own pediatrician, Dr. M).

5) Finally, this fall we visited our favorite apple orchard for a little apple pickin (20lbs worth of apples!!!!)and a pumpkin for the perfect jack-o-lantern (we didn't carve it but rather painted it since it would be inside the apt!)

We're moving....

2008-09-19T18:21:00.003-06:00

so until we get hooked back up with the internet enjoy these videos!!!

This is called "Valerie"

This is called "Katie and me"

This is what happens to Hannah after an 8pm donut!

"Run, Run, Run" Release that Energy!

"Ye Old Marry Men" or something like it.

Anyone need a drummer? Amd singer at their next party?

Apple Pie

2008-09-15T13:44:00.005-06:00

What's a girl to do with 10+ pounds of apples?!?! MAKE APPLE PIES, of course!!! So here's Hannah stirring and baking away. Of course, can't have apple pie without the ice cream!

NOTE: Of course we didn't just set Hannah on the counter with the ingredients and let her get to work! (Though she does look like she can manage on her own) Tim was kind enough to take all the photos so I wouldn't miss it! And I arrived home just in time to take the video!

Emily and Todd's Visit

2008-09-11T15:10:00.001-06:00

Pictures from June 2008 when Emily came to stay with us for 10 days (BIG help for me and Ms. Slyvie!!!) Uncle Todd came too for the Cubs game.

Bike Riding

2008-09-11T09:13:00.003-06:00

Hannah is a pro at riding her bike which was handed down to her from Bre before we left memphis. It was one of the few things Daddy kept for Hannah in our moves. She gets easily distracted...

Hannah on her first bike...at about 15 months.

Apple Picking

2008-09-11T09:07:00.003-06:00

Last weekend we went apple picking in Indiana. We went last year later in October and missed a lot of the apples. this year we made sure to go early... Hannah was all set with her little bag (which was a gift from Maggie/Bre who are way down under in Aussie). She filled her bag up pretty quickly with apples and said "It's okay, I am big so I can carry it all." And to her daddy "Daddy, my bag is full. You need to fill yours up!" We came home with 10+ pounds of apples. View slide show here or click here.

Random Pictures

2008-09-11T08:55:00.003-06:00

Some pictures from this summer 2008.
Hannah's got some cool dance moves....

Mussel coming at you! Yes, she eats Mussels...afterall she IS my daughter!!! (Crab legs are her fav too!)
Painting my toes...
Weber model...

Neurologist-in-training

2008-09-11T08:51:00.002-06:00

Hannah helped me study for my neurology practical exam. Honestly I did not torture her or anything. she really really liked helping me. Nothing gets her laughing more than to see my reflexes with the reflex hammer. Here's a video...HANNAH WAS NOT HARMED IN ANYWAY OR FORCED TO MAKE THIS VIDEO. =)

LP

2008-08-13T19:07:00.003-06:00

I did this today...I had seen 2 in the last 2 weeks and then today was my day!!! I got it on the first try. Poor patient didn't know I had never done one before!

story teller

2008-08-10T23:11:00.000-06:00

hannah and mommy chatting...

Hannah in the box

2008-08-10T21:54:00.003-06:00

We have a lot of boxes around these days as we prepare for our move in September... here's how Hannah likes to make use of them before anything is packed though.

Cookie

2008-08-10T21:52:00.002-06:00

One night when I was on call, i came home to a cookie sheet full of COOKIES!!! I guess Hannah and Daddy were busy.

Pizza

2008-08-10T21:39:00.006-06:00

Daddy made pizza dough and Hannah got to make her own pizza. Here's how it went. We are thinking of making it a Jansen tradition at least 1-2 times month! Mayeb we will have a pizza making party--hear that friends?!?!?!
Rolling the dough...

Putting on the toppings....in the mouth.

Before...hannah's on the left and mommy's on the right...
The finished products...YUMO!!!

hmmm...pretty good

Peds Neuro

2008-07-23T21:48:00.003-06:00

I am on Peds Neurology this week. It is really sad to see all those kids with seizures and most of them are really sick with chronic illnesses like autism, mental retardation, etc, etc....just makes me hug Hannah extra hard each night and be grateful for one healthy child! Anyway I am following one little boy (age 3 yo) who has encephalitis (swelling of the brain) and we cannot find out the cause. It is most probably viral encephalitis but we just don't know and we may never know. The kid could get better in a few days and go home without ever knowing why he was sick for a week. The mysteries of medicine....

The best intentions....

2008-07-20T22:05:00.006-06:00

Okay so I had every intention to finish my thesis AND update this blog...well neither were accomplished very much this weekend....so here are pictures and video of Hannah at ballet (pre-pre-ballet classes for 3 yr olds!)

Hannah's the one holding hands with the teacher's aide and walking....

update coming soon!

2008-07-16T21:52:00.003-06:00

hear ye hear ye...check back this weekend to see an updated post with pictures AND video of Hannah. I will be finished with my Psychiatry rotation this Friday and hopefully finish my thesis draft this weekend as well. In between I will post an update with pictures so check back!!!!

Also I got to do ECT - electroconvulsive therapy!!! Anyone interested?

no sleep

2008-06-25T01:46:00.003-06:00

it is 2:46am and I am still up....thesis is kind of in limbo. BAD! Very BAD! But wait there is an excellent reason...I am officially a 3rd year medical student! (though on an aside, my fellow med school classmates whom I started with at UT are now attendings or at the very least fellows!!!) Sad but true...

I am LOVING 3rd year though...1 day into my Psych Rotation (last week was 3rd year orientation and Monday was Psych Clerkship Orientation). Psychicatric patients are very interesting. Being on the consult team I get to help determine if a person is a psych patient. Cool.

But 3rd year can also mean late nights....Hannah called me on my cell phone only to get the voice mail. She thought I had hung up on her after the greeting...so now I have this message from hannah stored on my phone from today b/c I was running later than I thought..."Daddy!! Mommy hanged up on me." (Note: I didn't really hang up on her; she got my voice mail.)

Until next time....

The Crazy Life

2008-05-15T10:06:00.003-06:00

Hi all,
So here's a quick update. I am deep, deep into writing my dissertation (a book of 150-200 pages) detailing what I did in the lab for the past 5 years! My deadline for a complete draft is June 15th...yes people that's less than 5 weeks away and I have 6 chapters. Anyway, those know me from my school days (high school, college) know that I am a PROCRASTINATOR!!! Somehow the pressure of printing out that essay for Englsih class at 6:30am as I am getting ready is just invigorating. Yes, yes I know it is insane but it works maybe not as well as I would like now that I am a mother and wife. Anyway, 5 weeks, 6 chapters that means I need to get busy!!! I'll start a dissertation update/tracker on the side for all those remotely interested or care. And maybe I can sneak in a picture or two of Hannah...and oh did I tell you that I am starting 3rd year medical school on June 18th?!?!

Let the FUN begin!!!!

HAPPY 3rd BIRTHDAY HANNAH!!!

2008-05-05T22:52:00.006-06:00

I can't believe it but my precious little tiny baby is 3 today!!! That's right 3 years ago in Memphis at 4:01pm, I pushed out a 3lbs 5.5 ounce baby who is today a beautiful, funny, charismatic, stubborn, determined, independent, and smart little big girl.

We celebrated with a Build-a-bear and ice cream party with all our friends. Poppa and Sallie even made it for this special occasion. Thank you to our firends and family for all the gifts. Hannah has lots of new toys to play with and beautiful new dresses to wear!

Me holding Hannah in the NICU during her first week of life.
Hannah at home with us in the first month.

Hannah on her first birthday.

Hannah on her 2nd birthday.
Hannah on her 3rd birthday.

Slideshow from her party

Asking all lurkers...

2008-04-11T23:21:00.002-06:00

hey if you visit our blog and are reading this, would you please take a moment to leave a comment or just something that says you visit! Just wondering who actually looks at this other than the people whom I show it to! I know the identity of some lurkers (as my friend Amber said, "people who check out other people's site without ever commenting...just lurking") I would be curious to see who visits us and if I know them! Thanks!
Are you lurking?

Wedding pictures are in

2008-04-11T13:53:00.006-06:00

Click here to see wedding from the wedding photographer....
Username: Squires-Jansen
Password: 9474

Note the one of me walking Hannah down the aisle when she suddenly realized EVERYONE was looking at her so she quickly covered her face! I think you can still see her smiling. The one of her and Grace looking out the window are so cute!! Hannah is 1.5 months older!

Enjoy!

Hannah dancing with her Poppa (picture and video)

Springy Weekend in Chicago

2008-04-06T12:59:00.005-06:00

The temp is getting warmer outside....thank goodness! We are getting cabin fever! Here's some pictures from this weekend...

Hannah getting a little of painting time on the floor.

And nothing like a walk to the lake to throw some rocks...

and enjoy a PB&J sandwich!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

2008-04-06T12:45:00.003-06:00

Last weekend we surprised Daddy for his 33rd birthday! Hannah was great at keeping the secret until the last minute. We kept his birthday presents under her bed. We baked a cake while he was at work. Then it was time to excute our surprise. Hannah was supposed to get Daddy to go to the potty with her so I can get his presents out. So....

HANNAH: Daddy, you gotta come to the potty with me so Mommy can get your birthday presents....

HAPPY EASTER

2008-03-26T21:12:00.006-06:00

Easter fun....
Hannah got started early when she had an egg hunt in Nashville while we were in town for the wedding.

In Chicago, friends came over and we colored easter eggs together!

Hannah goes to the movies

2008-03-26T20:54:00.004-06:00

Easter Sunday while Tim was working, I took Hannah to see Horton Hears a Who? Hannah is an avid reader of Dr. Seuss (ask her to read Hop on Pop for you) so I knew she would like it. Plus I to prepare her for the experience I told her we could get popcorn and candy and the screen will be really big (to which she said it's GIANTIC!) Our friend Eva also went with us. The girls were mesmorized by the GIANTIC screen, not affected by the dark at all, and sat through the whole movie!!!

After the movie, Hannah and I headed to Big Bowl for some lunch. (This was after our attempt at trying to do some shopping which were closed for the Easter holiday...go figure!) As you can see Hannah got some practice using chopsticks.

More wedding pictures!!!

2008-03-22T21:41:00.002-06:00

Pictures from wedding weekend...see slideshow below or click here for link to album

Poppa's wedding

2008-03-19T22:41:00.006-06:00

Last weekend we traveled to Nashville for a special ocassion - Hannah's Poppa and Sallie's wedding. We met Sallie at Christmas and Hannah has not stopped talking about Sallie ever since. "That's Sallie's plate. Don't eat Sallie's chicken. I am going to Sallie's and Poppa's wedding. I am going to dance at Poppa and Sallie's wedding."

And danced she did...here are a few pictures still working on the rest and videos.

This is Hannah, Poppa, and Sallie at Christmas.
Hannah and Valerie (in case you didn't know)

Hannah practicing her dancing before the wedding. Stay tuned for more dancing at the reception.

Oh what a reception...brotherly love with Auntie Stacey in the middle.

The Jansens in Chicagoland meet the Petres of Jacksonville

2008-03-19T22:34:00.004-06:00

These are the Petres - Tucker, Christina, Grace, Will, and baby Caitlin on the way! It was great meeting you guys and we look forward to getting to know all of you better. Hannah gained 2.5 more cousins! And of course, Hannah would be glad to make each and every one of you her famous beaded jewlery.

Some pictures

2008-03-08T17:21:00.003-06:00

Silly faces!

Harry Potter?

Walking in a winter wonderland.
Daddy calls us Twinkies.

3 friends mesmorized by TV!

Total Randomness

2008-02-02T22:40:00.000-06:00

To make up for the lack of posts from December...

Snow fun!

2008-02-02T22:01:00.000-06:00

We got about 9 inches of snow earlier this week. Friday we stop at the park on the way home from school and played in the snow! It was perfect snowman making snow so that's just what we did!

And in case you want to see more....

Let it SNOW! Let it SNOW! Let it SNOW!

2007-12-16T15:06:00.000-06:00

We got about a foot of snow Saturday night into Sunday morning. After breakfast we bundled up and played outside. It wasn't the perfect snow-man making snow but good for snow angels. (Unfortunately while uploading the pictures I lost most of them!!! AAARRGGHHH!!!) Here's a few I did manage to load on the computer before deleting everything off my camera card...

Need a good laugh?!?!?!

2007-12-03T23:09:00.000-06:00

Click here for the FUNNIEST thing ever!!!

WARNING: Uncontrollable laughter is permitted so go ahead and laugh yourself to death at us!!! If you elf yourself be sure to share it with us!!! Afterall it's only fair, you laugh at us, we laugh at you!!!

Enjoy!

NEW BLOG!

2007-11-27T23:28:00.000-06:00

As if I didn't have anything else to do, I have started a new blog-- A Day in the Life.... (click here) of who else but HANNAH!! These last postings that I did of Hannah's saying of the day made me want to chronicle more of our conversations and encounters on a more daily basis. It is also a good way for me to remember these precious times with my sweet girl before she grows up too quickly! She already tells me "When I grow up, I will drink coffee like you." (How young is too young to drink Starbucks?) Anyway, I hope you will visit both blogs and keep up with us!

Hannah saying of the day

2007-11-25T10:35:00.001-06:00

Hannah pouring cheerios in her bowl...didn't stop till all the cherrios came out of the bag and needless to say overflowing the bowl.

Valerie: Hannah, why did you do that? Now there's a mess.

Hannah (ever so innocently of course): Because I want to, that's why.

Hannah saying of the day

2007-11-24T09:24:00.000-06:00

Tim had been napping in bed (he went to sleep at 12:ooam and had to be up for work at 3:00am) and Hannah and I went in to see if he was awake. We had been whispering so as not to disturb him.

VALERIE to Hannah in a normal tone:
Wait, why are we whispering? (We were back in the living room)

HANNAH
Because he doesn't want to hear us!

Later, I recounted this conversation to Tim. Oh how true it is! We sure can talk!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!!

2007-11-22T19:16:00.000-06:00

Happy Thanksgiving from our family to yours. It was a great Thanksgiving for the three of us in Chicago. Hannah and I went downtown to the Thanksgiving parade while Tim got the turkey going. It also snowed a bit but we bundled up and headed out for the festivities. We alsoput up a 4.5ft tree. Hannah occassionally inspects eah ornament to make sure it is perfectly hung on the tree. "I'm just fxing it Mommy."

See the snowflakes falling outside our window?
Catching a few snow flakes with the tongue

Thanksgiving meal prepard by daddy..except the sausage and artichoke stuffing (Mommy made that!)

Our beautiful tree...decorated by Hannah andMommy

Beads, beads, and more beads

2007-11-19T21:57:00.001-06:00

On our trip to Target, Tim and Hannah found a tub of beads (500of them to be exact!) The first thought that came to my mind was great they'll be all over the floor! But Tim being the ever practical one thought it would be good for Hannah's fine motor skills (what in training for her to be a hand surgeon, okay so that is the medical student in me). Anyway, here are some pictures to show how much we ALL are enjoying the beads.

The stash all laid out on the floor

Hannah working hard on a bracelet

The family proudly wearing Hannah's creations.
Okay...maybe not so much Tim (and yes he has earrings!)

Even Katie (the cat) got some beads!

I am sure Hannah would gladly make you a necklace, bracelet, or lovely earrings like Tim's. We're taking orders now!

Disclaimer: No those pieces are not too small for Hannah! If they were we wouldn't have bought them!!!

Poppa and Uncle Todd came to visit

2007-11-19T21:48:00.000-06:00

Hannah took a picture of her Poppa...

and Uncle Todd

Hannah checking out the pillows at the hotel

late night snack of popcorn with Poppa

We're back!!!

2007-11-02T20:57:00.000-06:00

I know it's been a LONG time since I have posted anything. To my defense, we did not have internet at home for over 4 weeks now. So I guess we have a lot of catching up to do.

Halloween

We took Hannah trick-or-treating around the University area. I had not seen so many trick-or-treaters since I was 10 years old out trick-or-treating myself! It was so nice to see that so many young families like my own had their kids out and about. Equally impressive were the number of people who sat on their porches waiting for the kids. Hannah was a trooper considering she was just getting over an upper respiratory illness. She wanted me to carry her up to the houses but after each she would say "I want to go to that one" pointing to the next house. She even got to eat a few of her treats (favorites were snickers, milkyway, and peanut M&Ms).

Hannah arriving at preschool...with her Movie Star Shades.

Some of the other princesses at preschool...
Hannah and me stopping for a quick picture.

Aside: I went in to the lab before Hannah had her costume on, hence, the few pictures. You know, I would have snapped quite a few more than Tim did. =) hehehe

AAARGGGHHHH!!!! I am 30!!!!

2007-09-17T23:11:00.001-06:00

Okay, it is 12:10am so officially September 18, 2007 and my 30th birthday! YIKES!!! I am not really sure how I feel. Am I supposed to feel "different"? 2 years ago when Tim was turning 30 he was dreading it. I just feel a sense of procrastination, stress of how much lab work I have to do by December, worry about who will take Hannah to preschool on days I have to be in surgery at 5am and Tim is at work at 6am, and overall wondering when I will ever finish with all this education and training (technically it is mid-June 2010 if you want to save the date!) I feel some hair-pulling urges coming on so I better go to sleep. Goodnight!

Good-bye summer!

2007-09-05T21:56:00.001-06:00

I guess labor day marks the end of summer and so ends our first summer in Chicago! We are looking forward to autumn in Chicago when the weather will be nice and cool. To commensurate the end of summer, here are some random pictures of Hannah this summer. Enjoy!

Hannah and Tim vacuuming....
so they can play FORT
Getting her nails painted by Ma-tao (my mom)
New dress from Aunty M and new Tiger backpack from Granny Gail
Feeding her new puppy (Rescue Pet)

Bouncing on BIGFOOT (a HUGE yellow inflatable thing that Tim brought home from work. It is used to keep pallets of stuff from moving during transport but it provided so much fun for Hannah!) Hannah got LOTS (and I do mean LOTS) of hair accessories from a friend. They were sent all the way from Korea.
Riding with Eva in a bike trailer.
It was so much fun.
Discovered Disney's Princesses....preference for Cinderelli though.

Planting some corn kernels Hannah got from the Museum of Sciene and Industry Farm Exhibit
After planting, you have to water.
Trying out bike (given by dear friend Breana). Almost can ride it, just have to learn how to pedal. But we have the head gear going though.
Bowling at the Children's Museum
And playing chess

Hmmm....I think that was a good move.
Playing in the kitchen...literally. (We did not put her there! She climbed in herself!!)

Picnic lunch by the lake
This was our view...
and another.
Going down by the lake.
Pretty toes in the water.
Checking out the rocks.
Cooking egss in the kitchen

And fianlly...playing some baseball with Daddy (putting gifts from Uncle Todd to good use!)

Well, that's it!!! Hope you enjoyed it! And oh, Julie, sorry but the posts will become far and few in between. No matter how much I would rather be posting pictures of Hannah's adventures in the wee hours of the night, I must think about finishing my PhD thesis. It's not easy being a wife-mom-and MD/PhD student but someone's gotta do it (does it have to be me, though?) Maybe on a later post I will reveal/explain what it is that I really do (or am trying to do) and why I am STILL in school and not working in the real world. Tantalizing isn't it?! Until next time....

Long break...

2007-08-31T22:43:00.000-06:00

Hello! Okay, so I have been really bad about posting anything new for nearly a month now! It's been a crazy summer, very busy for me in the lab and some traveling for Hannah. I think I mentioned in the previous post that we were going to upstate New York to visit with some family (on Tim's side). Hannah got to meet some Aunts and Uncle and cousins for the first time. Aunt Florence and Uncle Dick drove all the way from Washington DC to see Hannah and give her a surprise doll. She met crazy Aunty M (Tim's Aunt Marilyn) who had 2 lovely dresses for Hannah. We stayed with Aunty Stacey and Uncle Randy whom we all now know and love as "Unc". We also visited with friends of Papa from way back when and drove around Auburn where Tim grew up.

Here's a slideshow to recap our August 2007 Trip to Auburn.

HPDC Beach Day

2007-08-10T13:16:00.000-06:00

Today I took the day off to go to the beach with Hannah and her preschool. It was a nice day, not too hot but plenty of sunshine. Hannah was hesitant at first (like she always is) but then she did not want to get out of the water. She even left me for her teacher Patty so she could go in the water.

This will be my last post for a few days. We are leaving for Rochester, NY at 4am Saturday morning!!!! Then Hannah and I will be in Nashville Thursday through Sunday leaving Tim at home to fend for himself. We will visit with Auntie Eung, Emily, and Ma-tao (grandma) and all the cousins who come see us and many others too. See you soon!!

Hannah and Mommy

Hannah and Patty and friend.

Old friends....new friends

2007-08-09T21:52:00.000-06:00

Note: Julie, it is harder to post EVERY day than I thought! Last night it was 11:30pm when I realized that I should post something but I was too darn tired. Sorry...I will do better. My goal is once a week!!!

Last weekend Hannah and I drove to Michigan to meet my friend Lynn and Abigail. Lynn and I have been good friends since 6th grade. She now lives in California with her family. Needless to say we don't get to see much of each other and we have yet to meet each other's little girls since they were born. Anyway, Lynn was out this way with her husband's family so we decided to meet halfway. Call us crazy but we each drove with our girls 2 hours to the beach. We had a great time and had a memorable time....

All week I had been telling Hannah about Lynn and Abigail.She would say "no mommy, Abigail's my friend" so there you go Old friends (me and lynn) and new friends (Hannah and Abigail). IT was lots of fun meeting you guys! Hope to see you again...before the girls are 10!!!

The girls playing together
Hannah is not sure what Abigail is doing going into the water.

This is the part where Hannah is telling Abigail "it's okay, you stay with my mommy" when Lynn ran to get the car so we didn't have to walk all the wayt back.

Hannah was all smiles...

But Abigail was tired and wanted her Mommy.

Yay! A smile from Abigail.
The girls saying good bye. Abigail wanted no part of this...she just wanted to go home. (Hannah is 5 months older than Abigail, but they are practically the same size! At one point, I had both of them on my hips. They balance each other at 20lbs each.)

This one is for Julie

2007-08-07T21:58:00.001-06:00

Ok so I have been horrible at posting new blogs and pictures of Hannah...and may disappoint some who are regulars on our blog site like my cousin Julie. So Julie, just for you I will committ to posting more frequently...and I will post something everyday this week until we leave for our trip to NY. Check back everyday!

IT is hot, hot hot in Chicago!!! Today was extremely hot and humid. You would think we were used to that having lived in Memphis for 5 years previous. It's not easy staying cool with only one window unit and walking home from school with Hannah.

Here are some random pictures and videos of Hannah with some of her school friends.

Hannah and Eva preparing food

Hannah and Eva in the Banana Mobile and Ice Cream car
Hannah banana!

Hannah and Owen are buddies.

What have I done?!

2007-07-22T23:24:00.000-06:00

Saturday Hannah and I went out to Target, Best Buy, and the GAP. Needless to say we got something at each of these places (Target-Curious George DVD, ponies; Best Buy- portable DVD player; GAP-green jellies, summer clothes that would fit sans diaper). We are getting ready for a trip to upstate NY to visit with Tim's family, some of whom have never met Hannah. I wanted to get a protable DVD player for this trip since she will probably be sitting in her own seat on the plane. On top of that she has become a movie buff. I have lost count of how many times I have seen Shrek 1...and 2, Finding Nemo (though we have only seen the last half of the movie when Nemo is already in Sidney. DVR recorded though Aunty Eung is sending Hannah the FULL version! Joy. I can't wait.), and Mulan. So long story short Hannah has her own tv, as she would like to tell you. What have I done? Am I turning my child into dumb couch potato glued to her tv? Luckily, I can still interest her in some books for bedtime. At least we are not going to sleep with it...yet.

Red Toes

2007-07-20T23:46:00.000-06:00

This morning when Hannah woke up so noticed that my toes were painted red. "Mommy, you painted your toenails." I asked if she wanted to paint hers as well. Last time we tried nail polish it got everywhere since Hannah wanted to do it herself. Today she let me paint her toes...all 10! Don't you like our pretty red toes?!?!

Chef Hannah!

2007-07-20T23:40:00.000-06:00

Thursday Hannah donned her apron and chef's hat to cook in her kitchen. She was cooking eggs and chicken soup for me.

Our new car!!!!

2007-07-14T23:54:00.000-06:00

Today we ventured to Naperville, a suburb about an hour from Hyde Park. Our destination was the Subaru dealership which had a couple potential cars we were looking for. We have debated about trading in the truck and Camry for just one car. Living in the city, I rarely drive and often one or the other is parked on the street without being driven for days on out. Silly to have 2 vechicles, right - though I must say I will miss the convenience of a car when Hannah and I want to go somewhere (hmmm..usually shopping) while Tim is at work/school. We left at 10am this morning and if the deal was right (so from the title, indeed, the deal was SUPER!) we would be driving home with a brand new car! (Mind you we only had the Camry for 2 years, bought just months before Hannah was born!) Of course, if you are even slightly serious about buying a car you normally won't be able to leave the dealrship without one. This is what happened when we bought the Camry and traded in the Mazda MX6, without them having seen the car! Long day but we came home at 7pm with our new car, an evergreen metallic and urban gray Subaru Impreza-Outback Sport . It's AUTOMATIC (for those bumper to bumper traffice jams through downtown) with a 6-disc changer AND IPOD hookup (to make Tim's commute to work in Indiana a bit more bearable), and lots of trunk space for trips to Dominick's. Hannah was really excited about the new car and even wanted to drive it! Here are a few picts of her test driving it! Later on the way home in her carseat, she wanted to drive her new car.

Let's listen to the Doodlebops!

Pictures from Emily's Visit

2007-07-14T23:44:00.001-06:00

My sister, her husband, and my younger sister Emily came to visit us in early June. Hannah had a blast with them. We all stayed in the Congress Hotel on Michigan Avenue in downtown Chicago. Their time here was short so we packed in a full day of eating and shopping, mine and Hannah's 2 most favorite things to do!!! Click here to see more pictures.

Hannah and her 2 aunts
Hannah and "Emmy" sharing milk at Dunkin Donuts
Me and my sisters...can you tell?

Potty

2007-07-07T00:47:00.000-06:00

Okay, it's done. Hannah is potty trained at 26 months and I did it in one weekend! We started last weekend with lots of accidents on Saturday but Sunday she had only 1. On Monday she went to school with cotton panties and pull-ups. She has done extremely well. Everytime she pees, she is so excited and tells me to come see and check. Of course , this is a great accomplishment, not to mention no more diapers though we still have an unopened box of Pampers Size 4 but this also means new responisbility on my part. Taking her to the public bathrooms when we are out and about. Needless to say I have always hated using public bathrooms, no I am not germ-a-phobic, there's just something about using public bathrooms that makes me cringe.

July 4th was the first time I had been out with Hannah since we started potty training. We participated in the July 4th parade in Hyde Park and went to the park afterwards. She had pull-ups on but if you have a toddler you know those aren't as absorbent as diapers. By the time we were done with the parade Hannah's pull-up was completely full and she needed to go potty. I didn't think she would actually use the toilet since it would be a big toliet and she's used to her little potty at home. ON top of that I didn't want to deal with pulling her pull-ups off and putting on a new one in the public bathroom. To my surprise, Hannah actually peed in the toilet. (She also went again later.) WOW!!! So now we have reached another milestone. And I must be alert of public restrooms else risk my child wetting her pants b/c I don't like public restrooms and cringe at the thought of going in. Side note: we are going to the Shedd Aquarium tomorrow so I'll update you on how it goes!

Here are some recent (random) pictures.

Hannah and Emily (aka Emmy)at Congress Hotel during her visit
Hannah and her 2 friends
Hannah and her baby doll. Look how maternal she is. I didnt tell her how to hold the baby or anything!

Just chillin' on the couch after school
Pushing baby through the park. (She pushed the baby stroller all the way to school from our apartment about 2 blocks away!)

Hannah and Valerie walking in the July 4th parade.

LOTS OF NEW POSTS!!!

2007-06-18T22:28:00.000-06:00

Hey, if you're a regular to our blog SURPRISE!!! I was on a posting marathon tonight! I have many more to post but the time has come for me to say goodnight! Be sure to check back for more posts....

Ice Cream, you scream...

2007-06-18T22:19:00.000-06:00

Hannah screams for ice cream!!! One of Hannah's favorite treats is an ice cream cone or even just a bowl of chocolate ice cream. The pictures during and after are priceless...

On a different occasion...with Mommy

We have AIR!!!

2007-06-18T22:13:00.000-06:00

an Air Conditioner that is!!! Yes, it's true. Just in time too b/c the temp has been rising here in Chicago hitting the mid 90s this weekend! We were to have moved into a newly renvoated apt with air conditioning and every thing but construction was delayed so we are not moving until Oct. Anyway, we asked about getting a window unit for our current apt and luckily they were able to get us one the same day! It's been so cool!!! We still make use of fans b/c the bedrooms do not have a unit. Oh well, can't have it all!

The Jansens prized appliance....
Fan #1: The Tower to divert cool air from the living to the bedrooms in the hallway.
Fan #2: The Box fan in the bedroom.

BEACH!!!!

2007-06-18T22:06:00.000-06:00

After we got home from the mall and Hannah's new haircut, we decided to explore the beach near our house. Hannah was sooo excited and she was all ready to go. "Let's go to the beach daddy!"

P.S. Hannah did go in the water. It was cool but she managed to get a little wet.

Hannah's first haircut

2007-06-18T21:48:00.000-06:00

Hannah's hair has been getting really long and bushy. She has this long spot in the middle of her head. I have been wanting to get her a trim (Tim offered to do it but...) . We finally made it to KidSnips. Okay, so maybe the cut wasn't worth the $20 bucks I paid but Hannah's hair does fell and look different. First of all her curls are all the same length. They are quite mangeable now. Secondal, she got to sit in a cool car chair and watch Curious George, The Movie while getting her hair snipped. Finally, she got a certificate with her picture and hair clippings, not to mention a red balloon. Anyway, so there maybe it wasn't worth $20 but the memories sure are priceless!!!
Hannah and Mommy before going to the mall.
Before the cut
During the cut
Keeping Hannah distracted

Not too sure about the new haircut
I just got a haircut! and a red balloon too!
"Okay, yeah, yeah. Uh huh...I just got a new haircut."
"Hi Patty, it's me....Hannah. yeah, yeah, okay. bye." True conversation. Honest.
Admiring haircut certificate

Hannah's first haircut!!!

Happy Father's day!

2007-06-18T21:42:00.000-06:00

We spent Father's Day at Oakbrook Mall in the burbs. It was Tim's favorite place to be on Sunday (note just a hint of sarcasm there!) Hannah had her first haircut and we saw lots of cool cars!

Here's a Lamborghini we saw.
Who says Hannah doesn't look like Tim?!?! Like father, like daughter.

Where did Hannah get her curly hair?

2007-05-29T22:10:00.000-06:00

Here's the answer...well pictures to prove it. I was organizing some pictures (ha! more like 1800 pictures with more on my laptop!) and came upon some pictures of Tim when he was a little lad. I could really see Hannah in these younger pictures of Tim and vice versa. (And in case anyone was wondering how I am organizing the more than 2000 digital pictures, I am using a program called Memory Manager from Creative Memories to get organized! My friend Amber is a consultant so check our her website for all your scrapbooking needs!)

Hannah's first Barbie (sort of)

2007-05-23T21:15:00.000-06:00

Update: May 28 Tim got Hannah another Only Hearts Girl, Lilly Rose. She has reddish hair and freckles. 2 dolls in 2 weeks....wow! Tim says it the last one but we'll see. There are ponies, beds, and clothes for these dolls. Here's a picture of Anna Sophia (whom Hannah calls Princess or Princess Sophia) and Lilly Rose.

Tim got Hannah a surprise today, and of all things he could have picked out at Target. He bought her a doll! It's not a real Barbie doll (Barbies are forbidden for Hannah. Suffice to say that not all women are blond, size 1, and have perfect boobs). Anyway, it's a Only Hearts Girl doll, "real cool girls...just like you." If you know Tim you will understand what a big step this is for him to buy Hannah a doll. Let's just say he is accepting the fact that she is a girly girl and not a tomboy. hehehe
Tim opening the doll for Hannah.
Hannah's not too sure of the doll...
Starting to like the doll, especially the long hair.
She's not crying...she's laughing b/c she is banging the doll on the ottoman.
Playing with the doll's shoes.

Hollywood Hannah

2007-05-23T21:07:00.001-06:00

Hannah is a movie star, according to her teacher Miss Jenny and friend Saban. Here's why.

Hannah's Field Trip

2007-05-23T21:00:00.000-06:00

On Monday Hannah and I went on her first school field trip. We went to the Little Red School House, a nature center very similar to Radnor Lake (if you are a Nashvillian). It was an interesting trip with 2-5 year olds! Needless to say most of the moms of the little ones came along. I think that 2 is a little young to go on field trips but I was glad I could go with Hannah. Here are some pictures.

Uncle Todd

2007-05-20T20:18:00.000-06:00

Hannah's Uncle Todd (Tim's brother) came to visit us this past week. On the agenda was a White Sox (Tim's team) and Yankees (Todd's team) game. The game was rained out on Tuesday so they made it up the next day which was fortunate b/c Tim was off. Anyway, the Yankees lost so Todd had to wear a Sox jacket (not exactly, the truth is it was very cold and wet when they first went to the game so it was freeze or buy a jacket.) Chicago weather can be brutal and Todd made a wise decision. Of course Tim couldn't forget about his little girl so Hannah got a Konerko T-shirt and Sox baseball cap.
Thursday night Hannah and I took Todd to Greektown for dinner while Tim was at school. It was my first trip to Greektown as well. Being the adventurer that I am, I suggested we get the family style meal (we ordered #1). Well, for one I wanted to taste different things. And it was a full course meal complete with baklava and coffee! The first dish that was brought out was Taramosalata, this pinkish spread. Todd and I just looked at each other. See, I had been "studying" the menu earlier at the lab so I knew what it was. We both tried it. I told Todd I would tell him what it was AFTER he tried it. "Considered Greek caviar, this is a blend of cod roe with potatoes, onions, & olive oil". Todd was relieved but he had thought worse. I tried it and say I tried it. Period. Anyway, we enjoyed everything else that came after that, especially the roast lamb.

The rest of the time Todd explored Chicago on his own. Maybe he will have some great pictures and I can post them.

We had a great visit and hope you'll come back!

Happy Mother's Day

2007-05-13T23:11:00.000-06:00

Happy Mother's Day to all mothers! Hannah and I went shopping downtown Chicago. It was beautiful sunny day to be out with my Hannah bear. (Tim had to work.)

Birthday muffin

2007-05-09T19:55:00.000-06:00

This morning Hannah had her birthday hat on. Since she has her birthday hat on, it must be Hannah's birthday, right? Being Hannah's birthday she wanted "bur-day muffin" (aka cupcakes, she's used to making banana muffins in the baking papaer cups and tin so that's where the muffin part comes from). Anyway, so she goes into the kitchen wearing the birthday hat, tells me she wants "bur-day muffin, moma", tries to open the fridge, once open, she looks around for the muffins. Peeking through the clear containers she finds them. "Bur-day muffin, mama". I told her she needed to ask Daddy so she takes the tupperware with the muffin and sits in front of the bathroom door waiting for Tim (who was sitting on this throne at the time). Of course, she got to eat a "bur-day muffin" (no icing though, she doesn't like the icing anyway just like her mama. How could we resist? Besides, I'm sure she's not the firt kid to have a cupcake for breakfast!!! Hannah had srcambled eggs as well and OJ.
"Daddy I want bur-day muffin."

THANK YOU!!!

2007-05-07T19:44:00.000-06:00

Hannah would like to thank everyone for all her gifts and cards! She got lots of new toys and a nice spring wardrobe. Thank you so much to all our friends and family. Here are a few highlights of Hannah's gifts.

A kitchen from Aunty Eung was the first to arrive. Daddy was reluctant to put it together since we will be moving apartments soon. But....
Baking muffins in the oven.
What's in the fridge?
Hmm...which one should I try?
Yum-o!
Filling up Terry the Turtle.
Giving Terry a bath before he comes home with us.
Sitting with Terry.
A vacuum from Pappa among other things. If only it really cleans!!!
Baby stroller from Mommy and Daddy
Pretty dress from Aunt Florence
Dr. Seuss books from Bala, Shaji, and Sagar.

"It's my birthday"

2007-05-05T21:51:00.000-06:00

All day long Hannah would say "it's my birthday" (okay, perhaps after a little urging from all of us asking who's birthday it was.) Two years ago Hannah was born (well actually induced) at 35 weeks and 2 days at 4:01pm (4 contractions and 13 pushes) weighing in at 3lbs 5.5 ounces and spent 13 days in the hospital before coming home with us. Today she is this incredible little girl who enriches our lives with so much happiness and joy. She is still the smallest one at school but as anyone who knows Hannah knows that she may be little but she can hold her own.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY HANNAH!!!

P.S. Check back later I will post more pictures.

Hannah's birthday sundae at Rock Bottom (Daddy's favorite place)
Preparing first ice cream cone.
First lick.

Birthday Party at School

2007-05-05T21:28:00.000-06:00

Hannah celebrated her birthday with her classmates on Friday. She had a wonderful day. She was all dressed up for the day and got to wear her birthday hat all day long. Papa (Tim's dad) even surprised her by coming to the party with me. (He had just arrived in Chicago for the weekend).

Hannah the artist

2007-04-30T20:32:00.000-06:00

This weekend I took Hannah to the Hyde Park art center across the street from our apartment. They were having an open house of sorts filled with art activities for all ages. We thought we would just drop by on our way to the park but we ended up staying the whole 2 hours left of the program. Hannah visited the story bus, experimented with watercolor pencils, sculpted, and painted. I think we have an artist in training. I am thinking about enrolling us in the art class at the gallery. Would you consider one of Hannah's originals on your wall?

This girl can C-H-E-E-S-E!!!
Hannah's proud of her artwork.
Hannah admiring one of her masterpieces.
Hannah's masterpieces.

Park

2007-04-27T21:36:00.000-06:00

Hannah's graduated from just sliding down the slide to the horsey and swing. And of course, one has to dress up for the park in Chicago (not really but it was a warm day and I wanted her to wear this outfit for the first time).

Shopping on Michigan Ave!!!

2007-04-21T21:07:00.000-06:00

It was a wonderful day to be outside! We were heading to the zoo but never made it. Traffic was so congested on Michigan Ave that we decided to just wander downtown. Anyway, wandering up North Michigan Ave we found some neat shops (North Michigan is where ALL the upscale retails stores are located!) Hannah got some clothes at H&M, books at Borders, food at our regular place- Rock Bottom where Tim received his first prize for his 5th visit, and we ended the evening with a BIG Frog for Hannah. Of course, we rode the bus so Tim had to carry Hannah AND the enormous frog through downtown Chicago. Needless to say he gots lots of "aawww" and "look at the frog". Shopping in Chicago can become a dangerous thing for our finances as I require (yes, I require) retail therapy for the stress in my life.

Tim carrying Hannah and FROG!
Free at last! Hannah likes to walk downtown.
Hannah and FROG
Hannah in her new skirt.
Hannah modeling her new skirt. I guess she likes it! (considering she does not like to wear dresses!)

All about Hannah at (almost) 24 months

2007-04-18T22:23:00.000-06:00

All about Hannah at age (almost) 24 months... (according to her momma)

1) Favorite book : Brown Bear, Brown Bear what do you see?
Hannah LOVES this book and she can even recite it by heart and read it to her stuffed animals. (click HERE to see video) We have to read BB, BB every night. I can't wait to get her the other books in this series like Polar Bear, Polar Bear What do you hear? In general Hannah loves books and loves to read. Her library is growing but if you want to know which books are missing, click on Hannah's Book Wish List on the side panel or click here.

2) Favorite stuffed animal : Georgie (a Monkey) and also Monkey (a gorilla)
Georgie is never far behind Hannah. She dresses Georgie, puts a diaper on him, and reads to him. Now add Moe of the Doodlebops! She loves stuffed animals!

3) Favorite sayings: "I silly" "I did that"
Hannah thinks she is so silly. She also likes to tell us "I did that" pointing to the mess on the floor. We wonder how long that will last before, it's "I didn't do it".

4) Things I like to eat: CHICKEN!!! Ice cream, chocolate cake and brownies

5) Things I like to do: go to the park with Daddy after school; slide on the slide; paint, color, artwork with mama; cooking

6) Favorite rock band: The Doodlebops!!! Hannah has attended 2 rock concerts even before the age of 2!!!

7) Favorite new toy: Play-doh! Hannah did not like Play-doh when she was first introduced to it; however, now we have to hide it from her. Daddy bought her a whole set with over 30 colors and tools, which he nows regrets since she wants ALL 30 colors out!

New posts!!!

2007-04-14T21:52:00.000-06:00

It's been a while since I blogged but here are several to make up for the long absence.

Reminisce

2007-04-14T21:32:00.000-06:00

I can't believe it but Hannah will be 2 years old in 3 weeks!!! Oh the days when she used to only eat and sleep, okay more like those 2 am feedings and wakenings, and now it's "sshhh mama (with her pointer finger on my lips )" and "no mama no, like this". Of course there's also the "peas...and thank you". Needless to say she continues to amaze her parents daily. Here's some photos to remind us all how our little Hannah has grown!
Hannah Laura Jansen
Born May 5, 2005 (35 weeks 1 day)
May 5, 2006 1st Birthday!!
April 2007

Cake, cake, and more cake

2007-04-14T21:23:00.000-06:00

Hannah baked some cupcakes for her daddy's birthday. Also we shared a great BIG piece of carrot cake at Rock Bottom for Tim's 32nd birthday. It was YUM-O!!!

Easter in Memphis

2007-04-14T16:05:00.000-06:00

Hannah had an Easter Egg Hunt with her Aunty Emmy (Emily) and friend Breana at Papa's house. I had to be in Memphis for an oral exam for school. Hannah made the trip with me. It was stressful but in the end I PASSED!!!! (Yes, there was a possibility that I might not but I came through in the end!) We also had a great visit with Papa who had not seen Hannah since our move!

Nice weather...finally!

2007-03-25T21:20:00.000-06:00

We had great weather today, in the 70s! We hope it lasts b/c we really like going to the park and the beach! Today we took Hannah down by Michigan Lake. The water was VERY cold but Hannah enjoyed throwing rocks into the water. She didn't want to leave! We'll be back for sure!

View of the city from the lake front.

Hannah having fun throwing rocks into the lake.

Doodlebops!

2007-03-25T18:26:00.000-06:00

Hannah LOVES the Doodlebops...Deedee, Rooney, and Moe! They were in Chicago March 17th so of course we went! If you'd remember, we saw them in Memphis in November with Kelly and Owen. (Pictures) Bala and Sagar joined us this time. We even had T-shirts this time! We had a BLAST rockin' and boppin' with the Doodlebops!

Blogging Lag

2007-03-25T18:19:00.000-06:00

Hello all! It's been a while since I last blogged, over a month to be exact. We've just been VERY busy that's all.

Hannah is at her new preschool and she absolutely loves it! We are amazed at how Hannah is growing and learning. She loves books and loves to read to her stuff animals. She enjoys dancing and singing songs (Hokey Pokey, If you're happy and you know it, the wheels on the bus). Her vocabulary is extraordinary and we are constantly entertained by what she says. Thankfully nothing too obscene or embarassing...yet!
We're waiting for the bus to go downtown.
Little Mouseketeer.
Hannah's first espresso...just kidding. It's only water.

To see vidoe clips of Hannah. (CLICK here)

Last day at Computer Preschool

2007-02-23T22:52:00.000-06:00

Today was Hannah's last day at the Computer Preschool Academy. You're probably wondering why is it her last day? For those with children, you will probably understand how difficult it is to find quality childcare. Even then you often wonder if you have selected the best place for your child. We like her teachers very much and they do an excellent job with Hannah. They all love her so much and have taken very quickly to her in such a short time. But we struggled with whether the Computer Academy was the best environment for Hannah. Anyway, we are fortunate to find another center very close by so we can continue to walk her to school. She will be starting at the Hyde Park Deve lopment Center on Monday. This preschool is closer to the kind of place we wish to send Hannah while we are working/going to school. We hope we have made the best choice for Hannah and our family.

For her last day, her teacher Ms. Sherry, brought cupcakes and ice cream. Ms Sherry even gave Hannah a doll (Pretty Petunia but we are calling her Patty) and Hannah's favorite, a DUCKIE! Her classmates even made her a poster with all their handprints to remember her time with them at the Computer Academy. After all this, Tim and I felt a little guilt for taking her away from this place.

Snow melting

2007-02-23T22:41:00.000-06:00

The snow is finally melting away and the temperature slowly rising (well at least to the 30s). We are looking forward to the spring weather when we're not so gloomy inside the apartment all the time and we can get out to enjoy all the parks in the neighborhood. To get started, Tim and Hannah have been having dates at the park after school. She likes running around and sliding down the slide.
Tim has to help her to the top of the slide, quickly position himself at the bottom of the slide and get ready to catch her as she zooms down all the while trying to get a picture so I can see it. Here are a few pictures from their park dates this past week.

iPod, Peapod...

2007-02-16T01:58:00.000-06:00

Everyone knows what an iPod is, even Hannah who is borrowing Mommy's shuffle in the picture. But what is Peapod?! It's the ONLY way to shop for groceries when it is waaay too cold outside! I love Peapod! All you have to do is click on the items you want to buy. They have everything that a grocery would have, all the brands you like. Click, click.. pick a time for the Peapod man to deliver and voila! Your groceries are delivered to your kitchen! You don't have to worry if you will be able to carry all your groceries in one trip or how you are going to get 3-6packs of cokes and laundry detergent in one trip!

BLIZZARD!!!

2007-02-16T01:46:00.000-06:00

We experienced out first blizzard in Chicago! It was so snowy and windy that Hannah couldn't even walk to school! Here's a few pictures I took b/c I haven't seen this much snow in my years living in Tennessee.

So what does Hannah do when there's a blizzard outside? Eat cake and ice cream!!!

We finally left the apartment!!!

2007-02-10T21:29:00.000-06:00

Daddy getting Hannah ready for the cold! New snow pants!
Waiting for the bus...I hope she is warm!
Meet Georgie.
Playing in the waterfall.
Bus driver Hannah. Get on the bus!
What did Hannah buy?

It is still very cold outside but we decided that we needed to get out of our apartment this weekend. So we donned our coats and snow pants and boarded the bus to Navy Pier. Hannah adopted a monkey at Build a Bear. We named it "George" but we have decided to call it Georgie. (Hannah is into Curious George right now.) We had lunch at Charlie's Ale House and then went to Chicago Children's Museum. Hannah enjoyed playing in the water at the Waterways exhibit, then we stolled through the Big Backyard where she was a bee buzzing around Chicago. Next stop was Kids Town where Hannah drove a CTA bus and went shopping at Jewel-Osco. She even made out a grocery list! She was totally pooped and fell asleep on the way home. It was a fun filled day for the Jansens! To see all our pictures from today, click here. Watch the video below.

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Video - water

Bears or Colts?

2007-02-04T22:04:00.000-06:00

Like most of you, we also watched the Super Bowl. Heck, it too cold to do anything else but stay inside. Anyway, even though Chicago is now our home and I suppose we should root for the hometown team but we were cheering for Peyton and the Colts! (Tim didn't want to hear about the Da Bears for the next 6 months if they won!)

GO COLTS!!!

Brr! It's COLD!!!

2007-02-04T21:38:00.000-06:00

So how cold is it? As I am posting this, the current temp outside is -4 degrees Fahrenheit!!! Yes, MINUS 4! Needless to say Hannah has been inside where it is nice and toasty since coming home from school on Friday. Here's a few pictures from our indoor activities.

Let it snow, let it snow. I think Memphis and Nashville got more than we did!
Practicing the piano.
Baking cookies with daddy. Yum-O!!!

More cookies!

Being silly with the rice steamer!

Hannah in Chicagoland weather

2007-01-26T12:54:00.000-06:00

Getting ready to go outside!
Bundled up
I don't want snow on my shoes!
Rosy cheeks!
Walking home from school

Hannah's New School

2007-01-21T23:38:00.000-06:00

Hannah started her new school right away at the Computer Preschool Academy. It was harder for Mommy on the first day than it was for Hannah. Her teachers were amazed at how independent and mature Hannah was. They expected her to be more babyish and needy since she is so tiny! The other kids and teachers have all welcomed Hannah. Her nickname is "Teeny Weeny".

These are pictures of Hannah with Mommy and Daddy on our way to school. She loves the cold and laughs when the wind hits her face. She doesn't mind bundling up as much and in fact loves her mittens and scarf!

East 50th Place

2007-01-21T23:12:00.000-06:00

With this address you know you are in the big city. Our new home is a 14-story building in the Hyde Park neighborhood near the University of Chicago. We live on the top floor but by no means is our apartment a penthouse! It's not really all that bad but a change from our little house in Memphis. Hey at least we got new carpets! And the view is magnificent, with a glimpse of Lake Michigan. Hannah has her own bedroom and closet, no more sharing with Mommy.

Our first encounter with living in tall buidling was the day the movers delivered our stuff. The building has a freight elevator that is literally right outside our kitchen door. Great, right?! Except that it is no bigger than the passenger elevator and they couldn't get our couch in! So next option is to carry the couch up 14 flights of stairs (you do the math, 12 stairs per floor, 14 floors equals TOO MANY STAIRS!!) After about 30 mins of trying by the movers, they rehretfully told us they could not get it past the first floor! So needless to say, the couch went to the dumpster.

These are pictures from our apartment.

We're here!!!!

2007-01-20T23:56:00.000-06:00

We are in Chicago! We arrived January 5th with everyone in tow. Hannah and I came by way of Nashville and Indianapolis, and we met Tim and Katie (our cat) in Chicago at our new apartment.

It's been cold but we are prepared! Hannah dons her mittens, hat, and scarf everyday to walk to school. The warmest it's been since we have been here is 30 degrees!!! On the coldest day it's been 18 with strong winds (you can hear it howling at night!)

I have some big city tales to share so stay tuned! Pictures are coming as well. I just wanted to let everyone know we are here in Chicago and doing just fine in the windy city!

Getting Ready

2006-12-27T23:24:00.000-06:00

Okay, so I know it's been over a month since I have posted. But a lot has happened since then. I travled to Orlando for 5 days WITHOUT Hannah. She stayed home with her daddy and grandpa. It was hard to be away but I had a presentation to prepare for so that kept me from thinking of Hannah too much. (Can you ever think of your loved ones too much?) Anyway, I returned and then we closed on our house. The movers took most of our stuff to Chicago and we moved in with Grandpa Rick! It's been lots of fun for Hannah to see her Grandpa everyday. Her toys and things have taken over his house! (Not to mention ALL the stuff the movers didn't take.)

We will head up tp Chicago in the New Year. Hannah and I will start on our journey next Thursday. We will make stops in Nashville (to see Grandma, my mom), then to Indianapolis (to see Auntie Lesley and Addyson), and then meet up with Tim in Chicago. Please keep us in your thoughts and pray that the weather will hold up for us! I am ready for the cold! I got a nice down insulated coat for Christmas. Hey, at least I have the right attitude.

So the next time I post we will probably be in Chicago. I'll send an email with our new contact information. Let me know if you don't it one by the end of January!

SOLD!!!

2006-11-21T00:36:00.000-06:00

It is strange to wake up one morning and there is a SOLD sign in front of your house! We are very happy that our house has sold so quickly! We had a working contract exactly one week after they put up the FOR SALE sign! One week!!! Here we were worried that it may not sell and we would have to move to Chicago!

We are closing during the middle of December. Anyone want houseguests for 3 weeks?!?! Actually, we are going to move in with Hannah's grandfather for a few weeks until we move to Chicago after the holidays. The movers are going to take our stuff and store it until we are in Chicago. It is really happening! Please keep up in your thoughts as we venture on this journey. And think of me when I am freezing my butt off walking to school!!!

Friends

2006-11-12T23:26:00.000-06:00

"Those truly linked don't need correspondence. When they meet again after many years apart, Their friendship is as true as ever."

This post is dedicated to my dear friends from high school, good ol' Johnny O (John Overton Comprehensive High School). There are 10 of us who still keep in touch from time to time. We are spread out all across the USA even as far as California! Most of us are married, some have families, some have jobs while others are still full-time students. We are all different but share a common bond of friendship. We'll make new friends, move farther away, and drift apart but I'll always remember each and every one of you. I hope you girls know how much our friendship means to me.

Just as we are friends, I hope our kids will also be friends. My friends and fellow mommy.

Chicago, here we come!

2006-11-05T22:58:00.000-06:00

Ok, so it is final and definite. We are moving to Chicago! Some of you are probably wondering, why we are moving so let me get you up to date. As you may know I am in medical school but for the last 3 years I have been doing research at St Jude Children's Research Hospital toward my PhD degree. When I finish with ALL my education, I hope to have both my MD and my PhD. Ultimately, I would like to be a pediatric hematologist/oncologist. I want to take care of patients and do research that will help my patients. Anyway, in May my PhD advisor was recruited to the University of Chicago to head up the Section of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology (yes, my future career field). He wanted me to go to Chicago to finish my research and my medical school. After several L-O-N-G and agonizing months, everything has worked out to where I can go there to finish my research and then finish my 3rd and 4th years of medical school at one of the top medical schools in the US (13th to be exact).

So why go to Chicago? Well, for one it has been Tim's goal to get the heck out of Memphis as quickly as possible and NEVER to return. Secondly, how can I pass up the opportunity to go to a top notch medical school. I didn't get in Vandy but I sure can 't refuse the opportunity to finish my MD degree from the University of Chicago! Finally, I am getting support for the last 2 years of medical school, meaning my medical school is paid for! Yes, I won't have to pay for my last 2 years of medical school! How could I refuse that?! Lucky for me, I truly have the best husband who supports me 100% to make this move.

We will be in Chicago in the new year. A perfect time to move to the Windy City, no doubt. I am not looking forward to the winter at all! And everyone has warned me about that first winter! Any advice?

For Sale

2006-10-28T23:15:00.000-06:00

Since we will probably go to Chicago, we need to sell our house. It's been listed for a week and we've had some serious lookers! Good news of course, but it's also very crazy and totally stressful since as I said, we're probably, going. And if you know me, probably, is not good enough for me. Anyway, so our house is on the market. Know anyone looking for a house?

We had a couple showings today, one of which is considering giving us an offer! Hopefully, the probably will turn into a DEFINITELY before Hannah loses her home!