the JOY of JULIAN!

Not sure anyone reads this anymore...

2012-01-11T18:51:00.001-05:00

so maybe this will be my last post of this blog...Let me know if you would like me to continue on...if not...I will see you on facebook...or until I start a new blog...You know me...I love to blog! Let me know!

Happy New Year!!! 2012...

2012-01-04T13:58:00.002-05:00

Happy New Year! Who would have thought it would be 2012 already!? Crazy! But 2011 was a good year...no one was sick.

We did lose our beloved dog Eugene...he died on December 20, 2011...he was almost 12 years old...we had him for just over 9 wonderful years. So Julian had to deal with death earlier then we would have like it...I think I am kinda glad it was with a pet then with a family member...no he knows about Heaven...he prays for Eugene every night...he asks God to make him better so he comes home...it is so sad. Our Eugene was our first baby...he was such a good, sweet old boy and will be missed by all!

I have been blessed to have my very best girlfriend back in my life. Melissa has been my BFF through high school and college...and a bit further...we lost track like friends do with lives changing happenings...and then God put her sister in my path, and the next thing you know...BAM it is like time never passed...it was almost 13 years...I thought of her everyday of those 13 years and she of me. So now our children are growning up together...hers are 7,5 and 3 so Julian is right in the middle...it really has been a blessing...Her sister has 2 children and her brother has 2 children so we have these giant playdates...it is so wonderful seeing them all together. SO all 8 kids take swim lessons together and Maria's daughter and Julian are in school together and are little buddies...it is just so sweet and I feel so blessed to have them all back in my life. Our families spent NYE together...dinner, games, tears, laughter and Jeff and Melissa and Maria's husbands just clicked from the begining...which is also wonderful!

So that is what we have been doing the last few months...I will try to keep posting on here...but honestly if you are on Facebook you are my friend on there and you already know the on goings of our sweet wonderful life! So if you don't see me on here...friend me on FB or leave a comment! Bye bye for now!

I know it has been a while...

2011-11-19T11:18:00.003-05:00

For some reason our new computer will not let me post...so I have to write then use my iPhone to post...such a drag! Anyway...Thanksgiving is on it's way and Julian is so excited this year...for all the holidays! I will say I am so looking forward to it as well! I love to decorate, spend the holiday with family and friends. We have so much to be thankful this year! So let's do a little list:

1: thankful for our GOD and his everylasting love!

2:thankful for our health!

3:thankful for my wonderful hushand

4:thankful for my beautiful, kind and smart son

5:thankful the friends that I have, my best girls...Katie, Melissa, Maria, Melissa, Sue

September is just about ouver!

2011-09-27T20:41:00.002-04:00

HI all...so sorry I haven't posted in almost 2 months! wow, so much has been going on...Jules is in school...Jeff has been working OT and I am STILL looking for a job! But I am enjoying this time with Julian! On the 26th it was our 4th anniversary of Jules' adoption day! Wow 4 years! Seems like yesterday! Such a blessing! Today Jeff and I went to a private prep school to check it out for Jules. We really don't want him going public, so the search is on for the perfect fit! Jules would really like the school we were at today...but it is very expensive...so we are turning it over to Him to provide for us and to let us know if this is the match for him...we have 2 other schools we are looking at as well.

Summer is coming to an end...

2011-08-20T20:38:00.007-04:00

So there are 20 days left to this wonderful summer we have been having...Julian starts school in 20 days! I can't believe it! We have had so much fun! Reconnecting with an old dear friend I think has been one of the high lights of my summer...but the photo above is the most wonderful child I know. I have been able to tell our story to so many people this summer, that I feel like I give hope to those who are struggling with things in their life and know that dreams do come true! Last Sunday, we had to rush Julian to the ER...they told us he has pneumonia...well, it think it is allergy induced asthma...so we are are working figuring out what needs to be done in order to make our child the best he can be! We had a wonderful play date today, playing, swimming, an early lunch and so much fun! The laughter was so loud from the children we could hardly hear ourselves talk...it was just wonderful!

This fall I am starting a book club, doing a "favorite" party and figuring out where we are sending Julian to Kindergarten. I really don't feel in my heart that the school we are suppose to go to is the right fit for him...so I am going to try to do open enrollment and look at a few private schools. Jeff and I are on the same page so all is good. One of the reasons why we decided to have an only child is because we wanted the best for him...everything he ever wanted and needed...that was promise that was made to his birth mother...and we intend to keep that promise. So far so good!

I can't wait to see who his teacher is going to be this year...I have been saying many prayers for a certain teacher...so we will keep praying and hope we get her! Sending hugs and blessings!

Our baby is 4!!

2011-08-08T20:25:00.007-04:00

These 3 are such good buddies!

My beautiful boy!

Too cute!

Cutie pies

Wow does time fly by! Some of you have been following me prior to the birth of our son, Julian. We have been so blessed to have this wonderful, beautiful, bright, funny and creative child into our life. This year we had a wonderful party...it started at 3 and ended at 9pm! It was a very long day filled with so much fun and family! I think this was one of the best parties we have ever had. Our families were here, our best friends and lots and lots of children! My house was full of children, which is what I have always wanted! Katie and Pat were here with their 3, Melissa and her 3 were here, Julian cousins, and school friends...we had a few surprises and lots of laughs. We couldn't have asked for more. All the people who mean the most to us and who have been there for us all while we were waiting and after have shared in the joy of julian. Julian has 3 girlfriends but his best girl is Brenna...he just loves and adores here and she him...it is just so cute. All the children got along great...no fights, a few tears and laugher abounded out back yard.

On another note...I am down a total of 89 lbs! Holy cow!!! How exciting!!! I feel so much better...I look better and know that I have more to go, but I am not stopping...I would love to lose another 75lbs!! But the final trick is to keep it off! My very close girlfriedns are all shender...so it helps to be around them...they eat healthy and make good food choices and are wonderful support! Couldn't have done it with out them!!!

What a day...

2011-07-29T18:24:00.002-04:00

We all have them...but today was one of this days, where I was not in the mood to play, think or feed anyone! So Julian ate, shredded wheat and fruit snacks...his favorite...every kid once in a while can eat what they want...today I was not in the mood to cook! I Cleaned my entire upstairs...scrubbed the bathrooms...all 3 mind you...Murphy oil soaped all the wood work...all while not feeling good. I had to go on steroids due to a flare up with my back...side effects...I am MISERABLE! yes capital letters!!! So in order not to yell too much today, I resorted to cleaning...lord knows I wanted to crawl back into bed and pull the cover over my eyes...but Julian prevented that...THANK GOD! So it was a very productive day...but 7pm can't come soon enough! Jeff has been working 12 hour days and I am not complianing but by the time he walks in the door I am ready for bed! Thank god for good friends that keep me afloat and always there when I need them! This too shall pass!

Our block party is tomorrow...and since we have no kids on our street Julian will be going to Nana and Papa's for the day and night...some much need time off!

Great weekend...

2011-07-24T21:34:00.001-04:00

Well all last week, Julian had VBS, but the weather was well over 90 almost everyday, so Thursday I kept him home...it was a nice break for mommy and Julian for him to do this so I signed him up for one more the week of his birthday, so this way I am able to get some things done before his party! On Saturday, Julian and I had a great play date. We were there from 11:30 till 4:30! That was the longest playdate ever! But we all had fun! This was with a high school best friend of mine that we lost touch and reconnected via facebook and a party we saw each other at. It was a great time. The time went by so fast the next thing I knew it was 4:30! Holy Cow! And of course Julian is in love with her 7 yr old! He just loves the girls! So we are planning this big party for him...go big or go home!! So I am praying the weather is nice...please be nice!!! So that is where and what we did Saturday...today we hung out at home and then went to my parents for a pizza party. Julian is a fish...he is now swimming with his face and head totally in the water...goggles and ear band it and all...my little geek! But he is cute and loves it! So do I!!

In less then 3 weeks...

2011-07-19T16:17:00.006-04:00

our Julian will be 4! Wow 4 years old...where has the time gone. I will say...I have so loved and will continue to love being his mother. He is the best gift that God has given me. He is so happy,intellegent, funny, beautiful, stubborn, and loving all rolled in to a cute little boy! He is goin back to Pre-K this year to the same school...it is worth the distance to drive him there. Some of his friends won't be there this year, they are going to do universal pre k instead. I will admit, I am not ready for him to do 5 days. We are doing VBS right now and it is 5 days and I think it is too much for him. Yesterday he was fine when I picked him up, happy and funny...today he was not so much fun to be around! Maybe because it has been so darn hot here! UGH! I mean really!

We got an award from the Village that we live in...it is for our gardens...I have put alot of energy into our gardens this year...it has been well worth it! On the side is our house...and my awesome lavender that I refuse to split in the fear that it won't come back the same way or I might kill it! I make gifts for my girlfriends with it.

I was pleasantly surprised to receive a text message from an old friend. She was my very best friend for many years...and I have missed her dearly...we went out for coffee and have planned an outing with our children. THe great part was it was like we never stopped talking. We both said we were sorry for the past and agreed that it had been far too long not to talk. The funny thing was she didn't have to say she was sorry, she did nothing to me...It was me who was going through a difficult time and to think she had 3 children during that time and I missed it...and she missed Julian...so I feel so blessed to have her back in my life again. I see her sister all the time during school, he daughter goes to the same Pre-K as Julian. It is just nice to have her back and she feels the same. Sometimes it is worth bringing an old friend back...sometimes it is not...this time it is! Well I can tell you this..we will never go 14 years again without talking to each other. That is for sure.

Our summer so far has been awesome!

2011-07-06T18:59:00.008-04:00

4th of july fireworks

my birthday cake

my girls!

Kite flying on fathers day

Making Papa his father's day gift

Julian full of mud...but having fun!

Our yard

Lobster Fest 2011

BFF's...opps and our wine

Jeff and Patrick...hanging out at a friends house for some drinks...

Joe and Sue our dear friends...I have known Joe for almost 20 years...Ouch!

OMG! Look at the deer eyes!!! Yes, I had a few glasses of wine and it was very late...Sue looks wonderful!

My best friend and I at her Birthday Party, we have been friends since grade school

My BFF's husband

My mommy and I...also my BFF (80lbs lighter in this photo from last year...woo hoo...for me! Woo Hoo!)

My hubby and son and I on my Birthday

My Daddy and I

We have had a wonderful summer so far. Jeff is back to work so it is Julian and mommy alone again! 12 hours days for daddy...we are enjoying playdates and daytime adventures! Sending you all hugs and blessings

Sorry!

2011-06-13T20:33:00.002-04:00

Our laptop hard drive died, so I haven't been able to get online for a while! I hope it is back soon! I hate to keep my stalkers...I mean readers waiting! We have had so much fun this past month! Our yard has never looked better and the kids love to play here...and frankly so does Julian! We have gone on many Playground runs on the days that he is bored. We are doing 3 VBS this summer and Julian is of course over at Nana and Papa's house!

My awesome Hubby is throwing me a 40th...yes 40th birthday party next week...I am so looking forward to it! I am not sure how big he is planing on having it...all I know is that there is a party here on the 24th. He is such a wonderful baker...I am sure he has had his menu planned for months!

We are doing staycations this summer...Daddy is on vacation for 16 days!!! woo hoo! So I will be posting pictures I am sure! We have had a busy June...Lobster Fest, our best friend's Patrick and Katie's 4oth BDay Party, my dear friend and weight loss buddy Mary's 40th bday! Well on that note...I will not be up dating the other blog tonight, so I will just say, I am at a grand total of 80lbs! YEAH!!! I have kicked it up a bit with gardening, yoga and pilates! So I am feeling great and getting stronger every day! All is good here! Hugs and Blessings to you all!

Sorry it has been so long!

2011-05-31T11:48:00.003-04:00

First Jump in the pool of the season!!!

At the parade...

Julian and Desiree

Andrea, Desiree and Julian ready for the parade...

Sorry it has been so long...there are no real excuses, just we have been busy! The weather has just started to get nice and we have been outside enjoying it while we can! Today it is going to reach 90 so we are going to be heading over to my parents to swim! We have been blessed to have met a wonderful family. Desiree and her mommy Andrea are just wonderful! Andrea and I are like two peas in a pod! It is amazing how much we have in common...Julian and Desiree are in the same school, so we are hoping that they will be in the same class this up coming year! They just love each other. So we are trying to get together every week. I have posted some pictures from our weekend together...Every other Wednesday I am hosting a play date with Julian...providing that the weather is good...I am so looking forward to it! I know he will have a blast as well!

I know that people come into our lives and go...I am so glad that Andrea, her husband Brian and Desiree have come into ours! They are also Christians like us, so having the same belief system, and child rearing makes it so much more special! We have been blessed that is for sure!

This weekend we are going to Lobster Fest with our best friends Katie and Patrick and their family, so I will be sure to post pictures for that! My husband is throwing me a 40th birthday party at the end of June as well...so we have a lot planned for the month of June already! Jeff is off from work for almost 3 weeks in June, so it will be great to all be home! Enjoy your day and know that God loves you and so do I!!

Moving Up Day!

2011-05-18T18:53:00.005-04:00

Julian's awesome teachers!

I just love this picture!

Mommy and Julian

Julian and his little buddy

Not smiling...

Julian smiling...

So today was moving up day at pre school...what a great day and bitter sweet...to think he is going to be in the 4 year old program next year is mind blowing! We had a great day. Nana and Papa were able to come watch his program...it was great! Julian was too cute! They did the toody ta song...how adorable was that! I wish I used my camera to video tape it instead of the camcorder...So I have posted some pictures of his day!

On a darker note...Our dog Eugene caught a bird in the yard this morning...it was horrible! I was shaking and was really upset by it...Julian asked what happened and I told him the bird fell from the tree and died! Hugs and Blessings!

We have been busy...

2011-05-13T20:00:00.003-04:00

The weather has been wonderful week! We have been on a shopping spree! Baseball, sand box and more balls to play with! I went to PT today and Julian was playing with his water table all day...he loves the water! We can't wait for the pool to open!!! We have had a great weekend! Daddy has been home since Friday...it is his long weekend...so we have been going on long walks, farmers market runs and so much fun in the yard! We have a bunch of new neighbors on our street so it is nice to meet them all! The house next door to us is for sale and we are excited to see who moves in! I am starting to plan our summer out and we are packing it in with alot of fun stuff...so keep an eye out for us! Julian has been doing yoga with me...we are having so much fun! Can't wait for the yard to finally be dry so I can do yoga in the yard while he is playing! Well that is what we have been up to! See you all soon!

SO I was thinking...

2011-05-10T20:21:00.003-04:00

what can I do with Julian this summer that is free...I am not into spending money anymore...wait...did I just say that? Hmmmm...priorities have changed I guess. SO there is the play ground...we have a pass to the museum...there is always play grounds and parks...but we bought Julian a TBall set...man oh man...can he hit a ball! For almost 4...I am impressed! Not only is he handsome, smart but he is athletic as well! (can you tell I am his mother?) LOL So the last few days we have been playing in the yard...and does it feel good to be outside for a change! I have a feeling I am going to be sporting a nice tan this year! Oh yeah...and of course...swimming at nana and papa's! Well I hope you all had a nice mother's day...we did...or should I say I did! Hugs and Blessings!

Happy Mother's day!

2011-05-07T22:02:00.005-04:00

My mom and me...I was just born...look how beautiful my mom is!

Mom and I back in the 90's

I must have been about 2 years old here...maybe 3...I love the way my mother is looking at me!

And finally one of my all time favorite pictures of us!

I know it is a day early...but I must say...today was such a wonderful day! Julian was a dream and such a good helper. The weather was great! Sun was shining. Since I am the president of the block club, I had to deliver the list of neighbors names and our planting information. He was such a wonderful help! And it was a great work out as well! Walking up and down stairs...we were walking for 2 hours...down our little street! So after his nap, we went outside...our neighbors across the street had family over and the kids came over to play in our yard with Julian...and he had so much fun! The kids played so nice together...I sat outside and chatted with the kids while they played...2 hours! Finally I had to tell Julian that it was time to eat dinner...well that didn't go well...he cried and cried...I felt so bad...but it is what it is!

I have posted some pictures of my beautiful mom...she means the world to me...I wouldn't be the mom I am today without her helping me grow as a mom! She is my best friend! I just love her so much!!! We are going to brunch tomorrow with our little family...Julian is going to be so handsome...I will post pictures!!!

Sunday, Sunday...

2011-05-01T19:33:00.003-04:00

Or is that Monday, Monday...by the Mama and the Papa's? LOL Anyway...as you know we have been trying to figure out what is going on with Julian and his sinus issue...well after 2 rounds of antibiotics (which he has only had 2 other times in his life...I am so not a fan of them for kids) I think it knock out whatever was the issue...so we took him off Zyrtec on Friday and he has been wonderful...no mind you the occasional back talk and NO is still there, but it was miserable here for 2.5 weeks with that crap in him! I don't know if it is the Zyrtec or the Antibiotic that was the problem making him irritable, but I am really not even going to see what it is! Prior he was complaining about his eye hurting him...so far so good with that...so with any degree of luck we have flushed out the problem!

Computers...do any o fyou let your children play on them with PBS kids or Nick Jr.? Well, He LOVES our favorite baldheaded 4 year old...I will not mention his name on here...Well he found som really cool things to work on! So I figured he could spend sometime working on that over the summer...but how much is too much..you know how you jump on the computer and the next thing you knwo yhou have been on it for 2 hours! Well I don't want that happening here! So here is a question for you...How much time do you let your child play on the computer? I am thinking maybe a hour a day...30 mins in the am and 30 mins in the pm...but once summer is here I know we will be out and about...and if you are a mother of a one and only, you are the constant playmate...so at least I can have a cup of joe! Let me know what you think...the good the bad and the ugly! Hugs and blessings!!!

A house of fun!

2011-04-30T21:58:00.006-04:00

Julian being silly...

Brenna and Julian snuggling...

Owen and Julian....

Molly and Julian...

Our Day of fun!!!

So today we have had the pleasure of having our best friends children with us! These children are so special to Jeff and I...the are so sweet and loving and just good kids! So they played in the yard, played with the chalk, then we went for a long walk and blew bubbles, then we had pizza and then a pajama party!!! We have watched 3 movies, had pop corn and oreo's and even chocolate milk! Julian at one point said...thanks for coming over guys! He just melts my heart! As you know I would love to have Julian's friends over here all the time! All of his little play friends live in Amherst...so this summer, we are making friends in the neighborhood...so I posted some pictures of our day! Hope you enjoyed yours as much as we did!!!

DO you remember?

2011-04-29T19:22:00.002-04:00

SO this blog is to be about my son Julian...well this morning when he came into our bedroom, I made a big deal about the Royal Wedding...Look at the white horse's I said...yeah mommy...let's play ball. Well what can you expect from a little boy! When Prince or should I say the Duke...his mother and father were married, my mother let me stay home from school...I was "sick"...I often wonder how many others little girls at Heim Elementary were "sick" as well?! I didn't seem excited about this wedding until last night when I started to watch all the bio's on them. If you know me well, you will know I love to watch period movies...mostly about the Royal families...for some reason, I love it. So far the King's Speech is one of my all time favorites!

When we leave for school, we have to be out of the house no later then 8:35am! So when I heard they were going to greet the crowd at 8:25am...so what is a girl to do...well, I put on Super Why and told Julian to watch it while I made the beds...wink wink...so I patiently waited for them too appear, then they greeted the crowd...I can remember Kate saying WOW...what Princess or Duchess wouldn't say WOW with that kind of crowd! Then they kissed...I cried...I thought his mother SHOULD be there with them sharing in their special day...so as I watched them, he went in for a SECOND KISS...well, that is when I lost it...I was so happy for them. They are so in love. Unlike his parents...this is true love...one every girl wants...one that I have and I hope all of you have! So I leave you with this happy little post...every girl whats to be a princess!

The Challenges of being a mom!

2011-04-28T11:17:00.001-04:00

It is all about being consistent right? But sometimes it is hard...you are tired, or in the middle of doing something...or just fed up with the day and are waiting for bedtime to come...or nap time...like today! So Julian has been talking back alot...not sure where he is getting it from...I am sure school, the play ground or just testing to see how far he can go. Well THIS mommy doesn't stand for talking back...and I never will. So he has been going to be early or nap time early...it has been trying, but I am being consistent and I know I will win this battle...so that is where we are today...the wind is blowing, we have friends in Alabama who's how was spared, but not the street over from them...so very sad! Please keep these people in your prayers. Sending hugs and blessings your way!

smelling of toes...

2011-04-25T19:30:00.003-04:00

So everynight when we put Julian to bed we do a few things...we say our prayers, give a family hug and kiss and smell Julian's toes! We have been doing this since he was little...one night Jeff said to me..."how long until he doesn't want us to smell his toes anymore?" I said and hoped "NEVER" So here we are 3 years old and 9 months old and we are still smelling his toes! So tonight, he smelled his own toes which was so funny...but when he smelled them he said "my toes smell like food!" "Food" I said..."yes food!" I have told him that his feel smell like popcorn before, but what kind of food are we talking about? I just left it alone.

Tomorrow is his last day of Easter Vacation...since it is going to rain all day and be 72 degrees, we may just go out side in our rain coats and shorts and play in the rain...I will see how the morning goes! If we do...you know I will post pictures! Have a wonderful night...sending hugs and blessings!

My Father's Birthday and Happy Easter!

2011-04-24T19:46:00.005-04:00

We had my parents over on Thursday night for his birthday...it was a very enjoyable evening! Juian loves his papa so much! So this card said it all!

Julian's easter basket

Mommy and Julian

What a wonderful day we had...Julian really enjoyed himself! He slept over Nana and papa's house, while Jeff and I got ready for brunch...it worked out great! But I will tell you this...we are totally full! OMGosh...Jeff out did himself that is for sure! He had a great time looking for all the eggs I hide for him...while we finished eating he did his searching...and yelled every time he found one! It was so cute! He would come running into the dining room to show us the egg he found...it was so cute!

On a parenting note...Julian has been making "mistakes"...he pooped 3 times in his pants at my parents and tonight he peed right in front of me. I am going crazy here...it was 6:52pm and I told him, that he needs to go to bed, because babies go to bed early...I have to break this...he is driving me crazy and I am sure he knows it too...I know that it is the only thing he has left to control...but I need to win this battle...It is now 7:52pm and Julian is asleep! But before that he was yelling from his room "I'm weddy to listen mommy" but the thing is...it is not about the listenign here... I know that this is a test for him...but this testing is not good...so if you think I should do something different, please share your comments! I would love advise on this! I have tried to ignore it, but now it is just getting ridiculous! Thanks...hugs and blessings!

Nana and Papa's...and so it begins!

2011-04-23T17:01:00.002-04:00

The outdoor season has began! The warm weather is kind of here! This is where you will find us all summer and I can't wait! I plan on being in the pool everyday! Great training for the 5K!!! Julian loves to be with Maggie and she loves him! Tonight he is having a PJ party and Easter Egg hunt at Nana and Papa's. Jeff and I are preparing for Easter Brunch! I will post pictures tomorrow! Sending hugs and Blessings!!!

Monday's with Madeline...

2011-04-19T20:02:00.002-04:00

So if you are a regular follower of my blog you know that my grandmother and I have a love/dislike relationship...it has always been that way. So we got in a big fight a few weeks back and she said some horrid things...but after talking to friends about it and talking to my mother's best friend (who was very concerned for my mother's health) I figured, i would forgive her for the things she said but could never forget them! That being said...we are still moving her! So last weekend mom and I went over to her house and had help from the 3 guys that work in her complex...thank god for those young men! They did a great job. SO there are still things in her old apartment that need to be removed and cleaned so Mom and I went over there on Monday...well Gram didn't know that I was coming over with Julian...when she opened the door and saw him, she cried...I guess she REALLY did think she was never going to see him again! He was so happy to see her as well...I guess it was the right thing to do. They played, he read her books, danced and had lunch together...he is good for about an hour and a half in her apartment...I guess that is good for a almost 4 year old! They really do love each other and it is very sweet to see them together. I really got the short end of the stick when it came to grandparents...I guess God is making up for it with my son!

SO when we were getting ready to leave, Julian went potty and as I was walking out of the bathroom i heard this "clicking" noise...and then a loud bell...it took me about a split second to figure out that he was pulling the emergency alarm in the bathroom! Dear Lord! So we had to call the office to let them know! So the next time...he will not be able to do that again! Fun was had by all!

Fun Friday!!!

2011-04-15T20:22:00.002-04:00

We had a wonderful day! Yesterday wasn't so good! Let's be truthful with each other...Life is never perfect, I show you what our life is like here...Too many times I look at blogs and they try to be so perfect...the perfect mother, wife, sister, daughter...blah blah blah...I am not perfect and I try my best to be the best wife, mother and so on. Julian has been having allergie issues and we are trying to figure out what is going on...some of the meds make him a little crazy! He gets so wired...so we have been trying to figure out the best "cocktail" for him...not so fun!

Today was a good day...he was just wonderful...so sweet and playful...the Julian I love and adore! Not that I don't love and adore him when he is crabby and nasty, but truth be told, I am not a fan of that! He had an Easter Egg Hunt at school, and then a brown bag lunch...which is never easy...what child wants to eat when all their friends are there...NOT MINE! So he ran and played with his friends, which is what little boys want to do...PLAY!

This up comming week, is spring break...so he is off until the Wednesday after Easter...so we are looking to do alot of playdates...field trips and one on one time...I hope the weather is good so we can get out side and go for some walks and play in the yard!

Tomorrow he is going to papa's house so I can go with my mom to unpack my grandmother's appartment...should be fun! Have a great night! Sending hugs and blessings!

John Rosemond!!!

2011-04-13T20:07:00.004-04:00

What a busy week we have had so far! On Tuesday night I saw John Rosemond at Clarence High School, my friend Donna invited me to go and I could not pass up the chance to see him! I just love his Child Rearing tips! He has been a idol of mine for a long time! You can check him out at http://www.rosemond.com you can buy his books there and then you can get a CD with it as well! He gave us so many tips on different problems that the audience was having with their children and also told us stories of his childhood! Wow what a difference 60 years makes! The one thing I left with is the Mommy Light. Being the mother of an only child, you are their constant playmate. Now don't get me wrong...I longed for these days...so I am not complaining. But there are things that must get done around the house and mommy can't play all the time (although I would l.ike too!) So I have to either find a light in the house or get a fun shirt or maybe a hawian lay to put around my neck...that will let Julian know it is time to play with mommy! The one thing that I have the biggest problem with is talking on the phone...I know every mother has this problem...and honestly I hate it! As soon as I get on the phone...he starts yelling or asking me for something...it drives me crazy! So I have to do some cleaver thinking here...if you hae any idea's please post your comment...I would love to hear what you have done...and maybe I will put it in my next blog!

As always, sending Hugs and Blessings!

Life is funny...

2011-04-10T16:36:00.003-04:00

One day I was sitting in our family room, which is now our libaray and Julian was asleep on my chest...he must have been 5 or 6 weeks old...and Jeff came in a looked so sad...like he had lost his puppy...So I was chatting with some girlfriends at the time and they told me that there will be a day when Julian will wan to be outside playing ball with his daddy and you would be looking at them, sad. Today was that day! The saddness that I am talking about is when you realize you are no longer the only one in their life...your spouse...now, Julian is going to be 4 in August, so I am sure I have had that feeling before, but for some reason today, I really felt it. They are in the yard playing kick ball or soccer...and I am here...by myself, looking out at them...with a happy, but sad heart...I love my boys...I am glad they have each other! Daddy and son...so sweet!

DO OVER!

2011-04-09T13:26:00.002-04:00

Ok...so I want a do over today! Julian pooped and peed in the house today! All before 9am! I thought I was going to die! What is going on with him...is he testing me...I know they are always testing...but come on! My lower back is so achy because I have been working out, my legs are like Jello...but once we went outside he seemed to be better! I told him to go upstairs and put his underwear one and he came down with 2 pairs...So he is I guess he wanted double protection for the day! Last night Jeff and I were talking and he said..." OH THATS GOING TO BE A PROBLEM!" I as cracking up...I can't even remember what we were talking about! He is so funny sometimes! For some reason I am so tired today...I feel like I got a lot of sleep...but Eugene got up at 3:30am, so I put in his kennel...it is like having a baby all over again! So I sleep walk in the middle of the night then fall back into bed! So maybe I will take a quick nap! If you are interested in seeing my new blog...let me know! It is a good one!!!

Silly things they say...

2011-04-07T19:15:00.001-04:00

This will be short and sweet...so Julian was throwing the ball in the house and I said to him in a very loud stern voice..."NO WAY JOSE!" he stops dead in his tracks and says with a straight face..."WHO'S JOSE!" Oh this kid cracks me up!

Putting it out there...

2011-04-07T09:51:00.003-04:00

So I joined Weight Watchers the other day. A mom friend is a leader and my dear friend Joanne is doing so well! I have lost 75 lbs since 12/09, and I have gain about 10 back...not acceptable!!! I need to get my body back! So I have set a goal...I would love to do a 5K! Now I know I can't run...no way in the world with my back...but I can certainly do the walking part. There is one in June at a local church, but I think that is not enough time for me to get prepared properly. I don't want get injured so I want to do it the smart way. I am seeing my PT today, so I will go over with her what my goal is and what she thinks will work best for me. So today, Julian and I started our walking routine...I began with 10 mins...I am going to do it slow...in the past, I have just wanted to get it done fast...today...right here and now, I need to be smart about how I am going to do this and succeed. I have a weight loss goal as well...THAT I will not share...but I know what it is and I HAVE to hit it! I have a little boy who needs to have a healthily mommy! So I am asking you my friends to keep me accountable...don't hesitate to ask me how I am doing and if I walked today! You can either do it here or on my FB page. This is the first time in my life I am making myself accountable! Dear lord I hope it works!!! Sending hugs and blessings!!!

Thankful!

2011-04-06T20:30:00.005-04:00

Sorry I have been away the last few days...I had to regroup and get things straight in my head. Life is never easy...no one said it would be. But with the grace of God, He always pulls me through! This has been one of the worst weeks that I can remember in a long time...there have been people there for me...when I need them and I am thankful! Just when you think you are down and out...He is there to guide you back to where you need to be! So today I am thankful for my wonderful husband, the man who has kept me grounded and where I need to be all the time, who makes me laugh and cry all at the same time, the one who makes my heart got pitter patter! My sweet little boy who loves me no matter what kind of mood I am in, or if my back hurts...or when he prolongs bedtime by at least an hour...stays in his bed and talks to me from our room to his and I have to at least get up and stop what I am doing and give him bedtime kisses all over again! Sometimes it is 3 times a night! Love that kid! I am thankful for my parents...so very thankful for them! They are always there for us no matter what! I am thankful for my friends who support me, who are there for me no matter what! I am thankful to be a good friend to them...to be there in a time of need. I have 3 very close girlfriends who I can rely on no matter what is going on in my life or theres! They know who they are! And I love you girls! I am thankful to be home currently while job searching...with no luck! I am just plain thankful!

Sending many hugs and blessings!

Drinking a bottle of wine and blogging...

2011-04-04T19:24:00.003-04:00

might not be a great idea! So I am goin to keep it short and sweet...I love my little family I have...I have let loose the toxic ones and have kept the ones who mean the most to me...does that sound harsh? If you knew the story behind this post you would agree with me! Trust me you would! I love my husband, my son and my parents and would do anything for them and they know this. Some people stay in your life for a short time...40 years of being in my life and never getting any love back is long enough...my feelings are hurt, but my heart is not broken...I always knew in my heart that there was no love there. If you are not pretty or skinny, or don't treat this person like they are the only one on the planet then they don't want you around or you have to be the underdog. Well I have never been the underdog and I have never been skinny...therefore I am not usefull unless they needs something...So I have come to a cross road...I am done with toxic people trying to bring me down and hurt me...Never again! Sending you all hugs and blessings!

Life as we know it!

2011-04-03T21:56:00.003-04:00

My hubby and I have always worked so well together...this weekend he had 4 days off...it was great! So on Saturday, I got up early and went to a consignment sale and had about 3 hours to myself...I almost didn't know what to do...when I was finished I just wanted to go home, but figured I needed "me" time...I would have preferred to be with my boys! Then Julian and I had a birthday party to go to so Daddy was able to have his time to himself...then we had another party to go to that night...by the time we got home, all three of us were staggering up the stairs! It was a long day! Today we went to church...we sat in the second row...our best friends sit in the front all the time, so it was nice to see them 3 days in a row! Julian was at bible study and he told me that "Jesus is his friend forever" oh does that melt my heart. I love the way he prays...we could be playing and he will just want to pray...Gosh I just love that!

I took him to the Dr's. on Friday...he has had dark circles under his eyes and had been congested so our Dr said to give him Zyrtec or clariton...well we tried the Zyrtec...yeah, well he has more energy now then ever before...he was out of control for the last 2 days, so I am going to try him on Clariton and she how that goes...there is an improvement so it is just a matter of finding one that doesn't make him so crazy! We are going to make an appointment with an optomolgyst...he was complaining about his eye hurting...so just to be safe...we will see what happens!

Monday is Madeline day...we will see what comes from that! It has got me thinking that I need to weed out some of my stuff...so I will be making many stops at good will and everywoman opportunity! No time like the present to get motivated to clear out the stuff! I will let you know how tomorrow goes...sending hugs and blessings!

Something you may not know...

2011-03-31T19:11:00.005-04:00

HELLEBORUS NIGER

I was a very active member of the Amherst Garden Club...I held several positions on the board and was ready to be president when Julian was born so I had to decline. I was also on the District 8 board, part of the NYS Garden Clubs. It was a part of my life I really enjoyed! I met so many nice ladies...I was the youngest by many years...I was the age of some of their grandchildren, and I learned so much from them. This past week we lost one of our members. Mom and I went to the furneral, the sad thing was, we were the ONLY members from Garden club who attened. And to be honest with you...I am not even a current member. My mother is past president and I am past 1st vice president...so we felt it was the right thing to do...We seem to do that alot! Her daughter is an only child...and if you know anything about what is the current situation in our family, I too am an only child...so I looked at her and thought...that is going to be me, when my mother dies, and that is going to be Julian when we die. We are very content having an only child...God gave us this amazing gift, so who am I to ask for another gift? But it got me thinking...what will she do now that her mother is gone? She was extermemly close to her mother, like I am to mine. I felt bad for her...I didn't see any of her friends and she has no children. I made it a point to tell her we would do coffee in the next week...and I am going to stick to that promise. Even if it is once a month...I feel like it is somethign I should do. So that is my tangent...on to the rest of my blog...

I still enjoy gardening...I have some winter plants in our garden called HELLEBORUS.

The wonderful thing about this plant is that it blooms in the winter, so it is perfect for our zone. My white ones are already in bloom, but my pink ones are on their way! Today we woke up to snow...just a dusting but still! My Garden is screaming for me! Since I have a bad back I have to pace myself...a little here and a little there. Everyday, I am going to get Julian and we are going to weed. My parents also have a love for gardening...so I know he will be doing gardening there as well!

I love my OAKLEAF HIDRANGA it is in the corner of our front garden next to the house...it has more then enough room to grow...in the spring and summer the leaves are big and green, toward the end of July/early August they begin to turn a nice red shade...the fall they are amazing! So that is my little lesson on my garden! Sending Hugs and Blessings!

Mommy Friends...

2011-03-30T20:33:00.003-04:00

"US MOM'S NEED TO STICK TOGETHER!" That is a quote from a dear friend of mine...it was one of the first things she said to me on the first day of school with Julian. Her son Michael and Julian are buddies in school. Isn't that the truth...we do need to stick together! Who else knows how hard it is to keep it all together without getting in our car and keep on driving! I know we have ALL thought about it once maybe twice...but we don't do it...we love our family way to much to leave them...at least I do...and I know that the ones that read this feel the same way! I find that I have way more patience then my husband when it comes to Julian. Is it because I am with him all day, or is it because I don't want daddy to raise his voice at him? I am not sure, but I know that I am not perfect and don't pretend to be. I try not to put too much on my plate, but sometimes that fails. I want to be the best mom I can be...I want to teach him everything I know and more, and I want him to teach me how to be a better mom.

We have been potty training for what feels like FOREVER! Finally, yes finally he is pooping on the potty without me asking him! YEAH! Today, (Jeff was removing a queen bed from our spare room..eventually I want to make that room either Julian's room or just a giant play room for him...at this point, since the dogs are still with us, I am going to make it into a craft/sewing room.) so we were moving the bed out and I was at the top of the stairs when Julian comes walking up the stairs and says "mommy come with me...come with me...I went poop on the potty!" At first I thought he was just trying to get me to play with him...put I could see in his big brown eyes that YES indeed he did POOP! That was a very proud moment that I had as a mom...that I am doing right by my son! He is listening to me, and learning! Yippee!!!

But when I say we need to stick together and having mom friends is SO important, is sometimes we feel like we are the only ones who are going through this...alone...and we are not alone! I have some wonderful friends that I can call upon for advise and they are there in a heart beat for me! They don't make me feel like I was asking a dumb mom question...it is a real question...sometimes we feel alone...but we are not! I felt alone when we had our miscarriages, but once I talked about it I found I wasn't alone there either! I hope my friends know that they can ALWAYS call upon me for advise, babysitting help or making meal for them!

When Julian was born and we brought him home we only had ONE friend make us dinner and bring it over...ONE! I am not sure if it was because I didn't give birth to him and I wasn't recovering from surgery or delivery But believe me...I gave birth to this child of mine...a different kind of birth!Maybe because at that time Jeff was the one who made dinner...that was very disappointing...but we survived...I can tell you I make dinner for sick friends and I love it. When one of our friends have a baby, we bring a full meal over...it is just who I am...no big deal...just me. I have found that once I spread myself thin with a few friends. I feel that sometimes we need to move on with certain people...like a chapter in a book...it is time for a new chapter...ever feel that way? Well that is my rant for the day...I hope you all have a wonderful night...sending hugs and blessings! Always be there for you mom friends...you never know when she really needs a friend!

What a day!

2011-03-29T20:37:00.003-04:00

Today was crazy...busy busy busy! I just now sat down...and thought I would write about our day! This morning I went for a long walk, by myself! It was wonderful...then I picked up Julian, we went to my PT...Have I mentioned that I love everyone at PT? They are like a little family...it is so nice to see everyone working so well together! Well you know we love Dorothy...so I dropped off some homemade sauce for her and she gave us some goodies as well! She gave Julian these 2 awesome balls that light up and are so much fun! We played with them all day! And she also gave us these pastries with fig and poppy seeds! YUMMY! She is so good to us and we love her!!! Then we got the car washed...came home and took a nap...today we napped together...he was so good, I wanted to give him a reward for being such a good boy, so we watched some TV then took a nap....normally he was taking 1 hour naps...well they use to be much longer but lately it has been cutting down...today we had a 2 hour nap! It was wonderful!!! Then we rushed out to go shopping for 3 birthday presents, then to Wegmans, then home, dinner, then I had to take Libby our other greyhound to the vets. We knew she needed to get her teeth done...pulled...and sure enough...it is bad! So we have to make sure we get it done ASAP! Jeff put Julian in the tub and they had a great little night together...so when I got home Julian ran down the stairs and gave me a huge hug...it wss so great! I love getting those big giant hugs! I was gone for 1 hour and that is how I was greeted...it was great! We said our prayers and all is good in our home! So that was our day and now mommy is done! Have a great night! Hugs and Blessings!!!

Monday with Madeline....

2011-03-28T14:47:00.003-04:00

and it is always eventful! My mother and I have counted...43 bags of "stuff" has been removed by us! Today, I took many bags over to this wonderful place that helps women get back on their feet after being out of work for sometime. Gram has some beautiful clothes, so I wanted to make sure they were going someplace that women could really use them! There are many places that I could bring things to and have! Today, my dear friend, Cyndi and I were at coffee this morning after drop off for an hour of chatting without the little ones...wow was it nice not to be interupted! So she is having a clothing swap...but what is going to do with the left overs...so we were talking about this place...well when I got to Gram's she gave a business card for EVERYWOMAN OPPORTUNITY and I called Cyndi to let her know...I feel like God was watching over me leading me into the right direction!

So here are some of the things gram said today..."I PAID GOOD MONEY FOR THAT", "OH NOW I AM NOT GIVING THAT AWAY TO HER!" and " I JUST WORE THAT...4 YEARS AGO!"

Have a wonderful day!!! Hugs and Blessings!!!

Welcome Chris the Fish and Sunny Sunday!

2011-03-27T19:57:00.003-04:00

I love Sundays! Mostly because my husband doesn't work and we are all home together! Today was a bit different...he let me sleep in...then we did our shopping and bought Julian a beta fish...I figure we are safe with that and he wouldn't die too soon! So Julian named him Chris...not sure why...I didn't ask...so Chris it is! When Jeff went off to do his baseball team, Julian and I spent the afternoon with Nana and papa...our 2 favorite people! Julian went down for his nap and Nana and I went shopping! Just basic stuff but it is always nice to be with my mom alone! Tomorrow starts a very busy week...Julian is back to school, I am going to Grams tomorrow and I am still on the job hunt...so far nothing! Look for my post tomorrow...Monday's with Madeline! Have a great night...hugs and blessings!

Saturday mayhem!

2011-03-26T22:43:00.004-04:00

SO today...all I wanted to do was clean my bathrooms...and all I kept hearing was "are you done yet mommy?" which normally melts my heart, but today it got on my nerves! I never complain about Julian because he is a true gem, but for some reason and I think it was more me then him, I was at wits end! Daddy couldn't get home fast enough and then when he walked in the door he told me he had a terrible cold and as was sicker then a dog...I was about to pound my head against the wall! As mom's I know we ALL have days like this...So what did I do? I put on my IPOD and listened to all my Christan Music...always makes me feel better!

So Julian spent 4 times in his bedroom and finally I asked him why he wasn't listening to me...he told me "because he left his ears at school!" So what is a mom to do? Well, THIS mom called his teacher (not really) and asked her to fax them to Papa...then Papa called and sent them over through the phone and I put them back on him! It worked! So for some reason, when things get a little crazy around here, I give him a bath...he will sit in the tub for hours if I let him...he loves it and I am able to fold laundry and put it away, clean the bath room and sometimes even sneak in a shower myself...in the same bathroom. We talk and sing the entire time...she loves to sing loud...so no better place then in the tub!

I would have loved to put him in the yard to play today,but it was very cold out...the sun was shining all day...which I loved but it showed how dirty my windows are! Thank God for those new windows..very easy to wash...so I think Monday...providing it doesn't snow...the windows will be washed!

Tomorrow we are skipping church and going out for breakfast and then to the pet store...We need to buy Eugene a harness and a muzzle...and we are going to get Julian a fish...it is going to be a SUPRISE...that is what he calls it! He has been doing so well on the potty, that I am going to have him pick everything out...He is going to be so excited! So I will let you know what he names it and what we get! Then we are going to Nana and Papa's house while daddy does his baseball thing...should be a very nice day! Fingers Crossed!!! Enjoy the rest of your weekend and Stop back tomorrow...as always...sending you many Hugs and Blessings!!

Oh yeah...I have been waking up PAIN FREE since I bough and wear my new inserts for my sneakers...I have a very high arch and have been having problems with the left side of my body...foot, hip and back pain...I think I am in love! If you are interested in hearing more Please post a comment I will tell more about ! Love you all!

FAKE BASEBALL TEAM and my laptop is hyjacked!!

2011-03-24T11:51:00.007-04:00

Blowing Bubbles the other day...
Being silly with mommy's crocs on...which I no longer wear!

Our craft cabinet...I have an entire room in the basement that was a dark room from the previous owners, I will post pictures of that soon!

Julian playing in the sink...so I could get some stuff done...

Maybe I should have straightened up a bit before taking these pictures...but this shows you I am not perfect!

So I have been MIA because I normally write my blog at night...but my husband has a fantasy baseball team pick is on Sunday...so I have to write this one during the day...which I don't normally like to take my time away from Julian...One of the things when you have an only child is YOU are their playmate...which I don't mind one bit...but when you have chores to do...so we have been working on independent play....it is a challenge but it one worth working on.

Julian has had a nasty cold...thankfully there was no fever with this one...he normally gets a high fever one night and then he is better...this cold has been lingering on...so he has missed school on Weds. and I am thinking of keeping him home tomorrow aw well. So we have had to be creative in what we are doing...you know when they are sick they become Klingon's...which is fine, but limits your activities...so I found myself changing bed linens and cleaning last night once he went to bed.

I find myself yelling more today then other days...I haven't been sleeping well...I had a dream the other night that the plaza near us was on fire, and I was trying to get Julian and the dogs out of the house all at the same time and I was having problems...it was rough, so I have been trying to think of plans on how to get out fast! So that has been keeping my mind racing!

I loved that some of you are leaving comments on here...Please keep them coming! On the cat note...Gram can't get another cat...she is just getting to old...those were her words...so I guess she is no longer a pet owner. That is why I will be going over there on Monday's with Julian...that will keep her going...knowing he will be over once a week!

As always thanks for stopping by and I am always sending you hugs and blessings!!

Monday's with Madeline?

2011-03-21T19:56:00.003-04:00

Julian and Gram on our first Mother's Day

So I was thinking of starting a little blogging series called Monday's with Madeline...that is my grandmother...my mother's mother. She is 88 years young! Brief history of my grandmother and I...We have never been real close but I love her...with all her faults that I look over, she still is my grandmother! She was doing really well until my brother and his wife had her over their house and she fell on the stairs and has never been the same since. So since we don't want her to go into a nursing home, mom was able to pull a few strings...and we were able to get her a ground floor apartment in the same building where she lives! PERFECT! Well, my mother and I have been spending our Monday mornings with Madeline.

The good, the bad and the ugly is what this experience has been! Finding old things that belonged to my great grandparents has been great...going though all the clothes that this woman has...not so great!She has a sweater for every day of the year...and I am not lieing! Today was a sad day for us all...I had to take her cat who was 20 years, to the Vet to put her to sleep...she had her for just over 2 years, she was a rescue cat from a client of my mothers. She was very sweet...but very old and sick. So I had to take her to the vets. I was once again in my grandmother's eyes the bad child!

I didn't think I was going to cry...I didn't know this cat, had now ties to her...I am NOT a cat person...but I did cry...alot...far more then I thought I would. Then I began to think of the conversations I have been having with my grandmother as I am tossing out 1980 sweaters with the color block...you know the ones...big shoulders, big bright color blocks...as she is saying to me that "these closes are all I have!" I started to feel sorry for her...how sad that she views her clothes has her only possessions. Or the only thing that makes her feel good. She has always been very vain and always cared how she looked...and at 88 she is still the same! 19 wigs she has! 19!!! Who has 19 wigs...she has ones for dress up and ones for casual attire! WHO DOES THIS? SHE DOES! And that is who she is! Love it or leave it! So I guess I will be more tolerant of her since she is old and this is all she has left in her life. So once we get her set up in her new apartment...Julian and I are going to do MONDAY MORNINGS WITH MADELINE. She loves and adores him...and he her...so why not do this...how wonderful is it that she is able to have her great grandson with her and he is able to have this time with his great grandmother. So sometime in April I will start that.

I know it sounds like I am hard on her...I am...I will admit to it...but I do love her...my son loves her...so how could I not love her!

Have a great night...Hugs and Blessings!

It's 8 zero zero mommy!

2011-03-20T19:53:00.003-04:00

So yesterday was a super long day...Julian was up super early, no nap and wasw going to be later then I wanted him too! So I said to him as he was getting into bed..."Now I want you to sleep till 8 zero zero (it was 7:45pm) so I get my cup of tea head upstairs to watch a movie since Jeff was watchin BBall...and I hear..."MOMMY IT'S 8 ZERO ZERO" Here I am thinking he is looking for excuses to stay awake and I yell "GO TO SLEEP JULIAN" he keeps chanting the above...so at 8:06pm hubby finally yells from the family room...you told him 8 zero zero...then it dawned on me...so I go into his room and explain to him I was meaning 8 in the morning not at night...his sweet little response to me was "OH MAN" then he snuggled into his bed and falls asleep...needless to say...he was awake at 6:30am! Wishful thinking mommy! Daddy let me sleep in till 9am! Thanks daddy!

I hope you all have a wonderful day! Sending you so many hugs and blessings!

Say it isn't so...SPRING?

2011-03-19T20:16:00.005-04:00

A sign of Spring...the flowers creeping up and Julian blowing bubbles! He has always loved bubbles and when he had his speech issues, I worked with him everyday on blowing the bubbles...i figured the blowing was good for his speech...He loves bubbles! So we do bubbles!

Tonight was the big moon...but we had clouds...bummer! So maybe when I get him up tonight we will look out the window and maybe we will see it!

I have a friend who told me I was a great mom and that really touched me...you know as mom's we try our best to be the best...I had a friend that passed away 2 years in July and she was an amazing mom...I always said if I could be half the mom she was I would be great! So now that I am unemployed and having no prospects...I am doing the best I can...I want him to happy and enjoy his childhood...We had gone outside tonight, to kick the ball around the yard ( I am sure I will be paying for it later with my back...but who cares!) it was so cold and Jeff said "why are you going out there" I told him..."this is just a glimpse of their little life...soon enough he will be heading off to college, I don't want him to miss this...he may not remember it, but I will be able to tell him about it"...I will someday print out all these pages and make a book for him. To me...he is the most beautiful person on this earth...not just his looks...he sweetness, his personality...he is so wonderful to be around. I thank God every night and day for this child of our...it was such a struggle to have him...now that we do, I am sucking it all in...everyday and every night! Sending you Hugs and Blessings!

Oh yeah...so you don't think I am perfect...we went to a party today...and on our way...my husband, mother and father all called to tell him to listen to me when it was time to leave the party...we have had issues in the past leaving play dates...I will say...he did great! It helps when everyone is leaving at the same time!

...

2011-03-18T20:45:00.002-04:00

We had a great day today...I love at the end of the day when Julian says to me...
"DID YOU HAVE A NICE DAY MOMMY?" it melts my heart! We are all waiting for spring to really spring into action...It looks like we are getting some snow tonight and tomorrow...nothing that should leave much but still! We will see what we wake up to! Not much to report tonight...just another good day here...

Looking for a job in this economy is crazy! I am either over, under or don't qualify at all...God will provide and lead me to my next job...this I know! Hugs and Blessings!!!

Out with friends...

2011-03-17T10:02:00.002-04:00

Starting out our day, reading the map, figuring out where to go first!
Polar Bears!!!

Julian the ham sneaking in the picture a pose!

On the boat

Love this tiger

Ok..so this tiger stood up on his back legs leaned up against the glass...Cyndi and I tried to take a picture, Cyndi's phone was full and I couldn't get my camera out in time...so this was the second time around...

Rain forest...Julian and David running on the bridge

The crew...Julian is in the middle!

Playing with his friends

Doesn't it look like they are on a motorcycle? Julian and that darn sippy cup! How cute would that photo have been...Nat is smiling so proud to be with her buddy!

Today we went out with friends to the Zoo...I must admit...this was the first time that Julian had been there...yes at 3.5 yrs old...the first time! He loved it! Not only did he love it there, he loves his friends! We had such a great day...we walked in with our friends Cyndi and Trey and then later met up with all the other mom's in total there were 5 families...I love to set up play dates...LOVE IT! This was one of them that I coordinated...in the beginning I thought...oh no...it was cold...the sun was out...but it was cold...but as we continued on with our day...it began to warm up and turned out to be an amazing day at the ZOO!

So our day wasn't perfect...here is what happened...

1: Julian fell once in the beginning

2: Cyndi pointed out that a bird POOPED on my jacket!

3:Julian fell again...and really got dirty this time

4: Julian fell off a bench and hit his head on the radiator

5:I dropped my phone in the toilet...ICK...GROSS...YUCK!!!

6: Julian was talking to Trey and walked into a pole!

So, we left the zoo with no serious injuries...just bruised egos...for mom of course! I will say I really enjoy setting up these play dates...I love to see Julian's face when everyone shows up...I hope one day he will know I did it all for HIM!

We walked for over 3 hours...on my feet...never sat down...how could I? So tonight I am sore, and yes, out of shape...but slowly trying to get back into shape without hurting myself...so we did a ton of walking and I have an appointment to see my PT tomorrow...I feel over all pretty good...my hamstring is very tight in my left leg, so I will be doing more stretches before I go to bed!

I know I am so bless to have wonderful parents...tonight we went to their house with Gram for St. Patrick's day dinner...it was very nice...and then my mother said...is Julian spending the night? And so, we came home childless! So tomorrow, I will be able to clean my house, do my laundry and listen to talk radio all by myself! Ahhhhh thanks mom and dad!!! Love you tons!

Sending you all many hugs and blessings!

New name for my blog...

2011-03-16T20:18:00.004-04:00

the JOY of JULIAN!

Yes...I have a new name to the blog...My dear friend Dorothy and PT suggested it and I am running with it...Because I admire her so much, she has helped me so much...not just in PT but in being a better person and a better mother to Julian! With her help and support I am able to do so much with Julian that I NEVER dreamed I would be able to do with him!

This is one of my ALL time favorite picture of Julian...it was a HOT summer day and we were at my parents house getting ready to go swimming and we went into the front yard to put the sprinkler on, and Julian started to play in it...he was having so much fun, I yelled to my mother to get the camera...and this is one that I captured...I wish it was more clear...but I think you can see the JOY of this little boy...Just playing in the sprinkler...children are amazing!

Tomorrow we are heading to the Zoo...we are going with some friends from school...he is super excited to go...and it is St. Patrick's day! So he will be in green!! I will post pictures!! Let's hope the weathermen are right about the temps! 59 they say...fingers crossed!!

Sending you many hugs and blessings!!!

Spring is in the air!

2011-03-15T20:49:00.002-04:00

Today we hit a high of 52 degrees!!! That is awesome for here! It is amazing what a little sun will do for your soul! Julian and I played outside...I walked up and down the driveway for about 30 mins. I wanted to get in a walk, so I figured I would do it in my own back yard...he had his bubble container and was blowing bubbles at me...laughing the whole time! I must say...he is truely a joy to be around! I am having the best time with him...that is not to say we didn't have some difficult moments today...like when it was time when it was nap time and he pulled my hair and slapped me because he didn't want to take a nap...or when I told him NOT to throw the ball in the house and he did and it hit my favorite vase on the mantel...So my life isn't all wine and roses' although I wish is was right?

Poor Jeff came home from work...and all Julian wanted to do is talk to him and play...you could see that Jeff wanted to decompress...so Jeff did what all good daddy's do...he played and talked...and played...and now he is snoring on the couch! At one point Jeff said...Julian...let's play who can be silent the longest...I think Julian lasted 15 seconds...but if laughing counts...1 second! It was so cute! Oh...Julian told Jeff that he missed him today! I just about cried! To hear him express that is just music to my ears!!! When you have a child with delayed speech...and then they start talking it is like a blessing...but all children are blessings and everything they do! So I leave you tonight on a happy note...love you all and come back soon!

Sunday, Sunday...

2011-03-13T19:57:00.004-04:00

Oh how we love our sundays at our house! We have not been going to church lately...Jeff have been working 6 days plus over time and just wants to be home on Sunday...Whic I can understand...but I do watch it on line..our church streams through the web which is great! Today we had a birthday day party to attend...it was a hockey party...we had so much fun! Julian and daddy did all the skating while mommy stood back, took pictures and had fun with the other mom's who didn't skate! What a wonderful afternoon. I was able to chat with some mom's that I never get to chat with and really enjoyed the conversation...Jeff was on Julian watch today!

I dont' think Julian will be playing in the NHL, but he tried...after 10 mins he was DONE! He was so cute and really did enjoy himself!

Cute little thing...

2011-03-12T20:48:00.002-05:00

So tonight, Julian wanted to say his prayers...so he said Dear God...blah blah blah...and papa fell asleep on the couch and wouldn't play catch with me and I was sad...he said he was resting...and then he went on with the rest of the prayer...which was taking a VERY long time...so when he ws done, I said Julian were you saying your prayers or your life story...he said...my life story! LOL

OK Come on now!

2011-03-12T12:06:00.002-05:00

Ok my stalkers...you need to leave me a comment or two...I love to blog...I love to hear what people think of my blogging...what do you want to hear more about? Please tell me...leave me a comment...My PT Dorothy who I love and adore and has worked so hard with me, always told me that I should blog...so here I am blogging once again...

Yesterday, I was looking at old videos on my Face book page, and I was shocked to see the progression of Julian's speech! I kept telling his Dr. and the old speech teacher that he was tongue tied and he kept getting ear infections...I swear they must have thought I was nuts! Crazy mom here she comes again! But I knew in my heart of hearts that there was a problem. We went to a ENT the one who worked on Jeff and the minute Julian opened his mouth...he said..."oh and he is tongue tied!" I looked at Jeff and he looked at me...and I said..."I AM NOT CRAZY!" It is absolutely amazing! Just from a year ago...he had his surgery on 3/3/10 and where he is today is amazing! I had a girlfriend years ago, who has a little girl who was tongue tied, and had surgery on it, plus I think tubes just like Julian, so I knew that this speech delay HAD to be that...from the time he was 15 months he was in Early intervention...we had a ST who was very nice, but just was not working out for Julian and she got pregnant...so right after his surgery she went on leave and we got a new teacher...whom we LOVE and adore! Well, between switching her and myself and the family really working with him from what we are told it looks like his speech teaching through the district is going to end in June...it is bitter sweet for me. One because I love his teacher and two because he has progressed so well!

Now he knows his phone number and his address...I am not just saying this...but this child of mine is VERY smart. The things he retains and learns is amazing. I know children in kindergarten who don't know this stuff.

So here is a pet peeve of mine...and it seems to be on Face book mostly...Maybe it is because it took us so long to be parents...but please people...STOP complaining about your children. i don't care if your children are adopted or not...it doesn't sound right...and to people who can't have children it drives them crazy...and if you know me well enough...I am standing on the hill all by myself saying this because no one else will! Don't get me wrong...I have posted things like..."is it bed time yet" or something of that nature...but if your child is sick, or you are at a function with your child and you are bored...please keep it to your self...sometimes it is better to know your audience...(I stole that from my Friend Marybeth!) She always says that! SO that is my rant for the day...I will post something tonight...so please check back and leave a comment!!! Or just check off one of the boxes at that bottom of my post! Thank you and sending many hugs and blessings!

Yummy--I LOVE IT!

2011-03-11T21:43:00.003-05:00

Well, it is that time of year again...Faschnaut time! If you are not familiar with them they are like a donut only flatter...growing up, I can remember going to my grand mothers house and having them...but she made hers! Now I just go to the store and buy them...the one I have found to be the most similar to hers is at a store called Dash's Market...Today I treated my parents...and bought some for us as well. I have to say...I am very blessed to have my parents...They love having Julian around, so today after school, I dropped him off, and they had a pajama party...when I was picking him up, I told him to ask Nana and papa for faschnauts...well tonight he had 1/2 of one...he said to my mother...aka Nana..."I love them!" So cute. Isn't it funny how food can bring back such wonderful memories of your childhood?!

My step grandfather worked at a very private club called The Buffalo Club. Back when he worked there...they had separate entrances for men and women...I think they still do. It is a very private club, very expensive...well he use to bring home the best chicken wings and friend scallops...and pastries that were left over from that night or morning...I can still taste and smell them...it was great waking up on a Saturday morning and having those pastries from there. They are both long gone now...but out of all the memories I have of them...those are the most fondest ones...centered around food...go figure! No really go...figure!

Now my son is building memories with his grandparents...not centered around food...but centered around love...and pajama parties!

Thankful Thursday...

2011-03-10T20:14:00.002-05:00

Today I am most thankful for the friends I have found while being a mommy. Friends come and go, this I am all to aware of. But once you are a mommy things are different. You really are careful who you become friends with...will our children get along, do they have the same morals and beliefs as my husband and I. Since Julian has started school at his pre school, we have met some amazing families that I am so thankful for. I hope that we remain friends for a long time. I have made friends with some mom's in a women's bible study as well. I am so thankful that God has a plan for me and that I am listening to His plan and following it. This I am so thankful for! My friends!

Wordless Wednesday...

2011-03-09T20:40:00.004-05:00

40 Days of Lent...

2011-03-08T22:29:00.003-05:00

So I am going to be posting scriptures on the side of my blog every day...please say the prayer if you like...I am really looking forward to doing this and if you would like to copy it to your blog please feel free to do so! Starting tomorrow...check it out!

Tuesday Trips...

2011-03-08T19:55:00.004-05:00

In the Spaceship with Michael
At the water table

Shelley, Michael and Julian at the water table!

Today we went to the Buffalo Museum of Science...this was the first time we had gone. I have been there many times as a kid...but never took Julian...yes, remember he was the boy in the bubble! We went with our good friends Shelley and her 2 boys Michael and Luke. We had a blast. Julian was so good, we went to the gift shop and I told him he could pick out anything he wanted...and the video below is what he picked! He played for almost 4 hours with it today when we got home...he was so excited he wanted to take a nap with it, and never took that nap because he wanted to play with it so bad! With the exception of a dinner break and one potty break...4hours of play time with it! It is a hit!!

I will say, ever since he has been potty trained...he has been a dream! There were a few fough weeks in January and February...mostly out of frustration I am sure! So proud of my baby boy!

Friday is Strong Museum...I am so looking forward to that! Fingers crossed for no sickness or snow!

Here is a video from today!

Hope you had a wonderful and blessed day!!!

See you tomorrow!

Monday Madness

2011-03-07T22:21:00.004-05:00

So every Monday my parents take Julian...they pick him up from pre school and take him for the day and night...I am so thrilled he is able to spend this time with them. I/we are so lucky to have them here with us. I always dreamed of my child having the grand parents that I never had...the ones who attend everything...I never had that...and now he has that...I always prayed for that...My father...aka Papa...takes him to swimming lessons right now...and Julian loves to swim...we all do...I am so looking forward to this year and the pool. I see many pool parties with our friends and their children.

Today on my Monday Madness...I dropped off Julian, stopped by my parents house, went to PT, came home and cleaned my house, did laundry, talked to a friend who needed some support, went out with my husband on a mini date and came home and here I am blogging! What was your monday like?

We had a play date set up for tomorrow but it was cancelled...so I called to let my friend Shelly, and the great thing is...we changed our plans with no problems...so it is off to the Museum of Science. I am so looking forward to it. First he is getting his hair cut...then it is off to see Michael and the gang...should be a great time!

I have to say...I am so glad that I am back to blogging. It has been way to long...it is a great release...a place to go and tell my thoughts.

As you may see I have changed my title to my blog...it is now "Our one and only!" When Jeff and started planning a family we always talked about having 2 children...then when it was taking us so long and we had six miscarriages and our son Joseph who didn't make it, we said that if God gave us ONE healthy child that we would be happy...and I AM HAPPY...Yes, it would be nice to have another child...there are days where I day dream about it...but God has a plan for US...HE knows what is in store for US. So for now Julian is OUR ONE AND ONLY and I am loving it! I love the time we spend together. He is my little buddy! OUR little buddy...and I couldn't ask for a better buddy then him! He is so sweet and has a great sense of humor...and he is the other love of my life!

This was from October on a field trip...it was so cold...but we had our little man to keep us warm!

Our prayers at bedtime...

2011-03-06T20:20:00.004-05:00

Julian being silly! He loves this picture!

Today out of the blue Julian came to me and asked if we could PRAY!!! And that is what we did!! Moments like that...I thank God and say to myself...he is getting it!!!

SO nap time and night we pray...we always thank God for the wonderful day we are having or had. We always thank him for daddy, and how hard he works for us! We always pray from Papa, Nana, Mommy, Daddy, Grandma Terry, Grammy, Maggie, Bug, and Julian. We pray for our teachers and friends and their families and we always pick something that is going on that we need help with...like potty training, leaving play date without freaking out and such. I am always the one who does the prayers. TONIGHT...Julian wanted to do them!!! So he began to do our normal prayer and he thanked God for his Bug 3 times and Nana and Papa 4 times...instead of grandma terry he just said Terry, and he said Thank you to GOD for helping him go on the potty...I asked him if there was anything else he wanted to thank God for or pray for and then the list began...he prayed for the remote, the pictures, the cross, his stuffed animals, his blankets...everything I think that was in his room...It was so hard not to laugh, because he was trying so hard...it was so sweet and cute!

This week is going to be busy! Tomorrow, Julian has school, Nana and papa's and swimming! On Tuesday he is getting his hair cut and we are going to a new play group! I am so looking forward to this group because it is all Christan mom's. Wednesday is school, Thursday is Speech and play date and Friday is school! I am going to be posting things on Craig's list and EBay...We are cleaning and throwing away so much! We love our house, but if something comes up in Amherst or my parents end up wanting to sell their house to us...we are there! I have been looking at house on line, but everything needs work and honestly, I am not going through that again! Our house has all new windows, new kitchen, 3 new baths...it is finally where I want it...I have 2 more rooms to work on and then it will be perfect! I am going to be making new curtains for my Kitchen to give it a little face lift...I am looking for a blue or green toile...I am on the hunt!

Before I go, as I was typing this blog, Julian called me to his room and asked me for 20 kisses! So of course I said YES! When I got to 19, I kissed and said 19 about 10 times...and then one big one for 20! He loved it and laughed! Everyday I feel a blessing from above. I take nothing for granted with this child of mine!

Isn't God great!!!

2011-03-03T20:17:00.003-05:00

When you have children you never know what life will be like for them...Julian was very delayed in his speech...I knew that he was delayed...I fought with our doctors and finally took it into my own hands! He had already been receiving speech for almost a year at that point...after tube and loosening his tounge...he spoke! Now a year later our speech teacher told me today that she think Julian can stop receiving speech in June!!! Wow...I can't tell you how I have prayed for him...I really feel like his teacher has done amazing things with him...she came to us just after his surgery...it was like God sent her to us! And I am so happy he did...Julian and I talk all the time in the car...we hold conversations!!!! I know to some of you this doesn't seem like much, but to me it is everything! To hear his voice all the time is such a blessing! I never tell him to stop talking...talk away may babe, talk away!!!

Changing again and Our dog Eugene...

2011-03-01T21:10:00.007-05:00

First off...here are new pictures of our family room! I have changed the window treatments! We just love the color. We have a new picture above the fireplace...it was a nice sunny day when I took these pictures...they are more burgandy...

We have had him for just over 9 years...he just turned 11 years old. He hasn't been feeling himself so we took him to the vet's and he has some disc issues in his neck. So we will see what happens from here. Right now we have him on meds to help with the pain...he is sound asleep on our bed...it will be a very sad day in our home when God calls him to the Rainbow bridge. But for now, we don't want to think that...We just ask God to watch over him and heal our dog and make him comfortable!

Back to the normal life...

2011-02-27T21:47:00.004-05:00

This is our most recent picture of Julian! 3.5 years old!

As of today he is potty trained!!!

Well, hubby goes back to work tomorrow after being home for almost 2.5 weeks...part vacation, part sickness...but now he goes back to work. I have enjoyed his stay, but it time to get my house back in order! Julian goes back to school tomorrow as well! I have a few projects I am working on...decorating my mantel for spring/Easter...I will post what I have done this week! I am refurbishing an old wreath and some easy and in expensive ways to make things ready for spring!

So when do you start decorating for Easter? I am so excited to do it this year, since we have moved our house around...it should look great! I will soon be posting my circle scarfs that I have made on my other site...

A new outlook? Superwoman I am not!

2011-02-24T21:32:00.004-05:00

So this week has been one for the books! I feel like I am being tested by God! On Sunday I was chatting with a friend, knitting while sitting on the couch ( a no no for me) and Jeff asked me to keep an eye on the fire and Julian...so I was going to get up, mind you still with the phone in hand, more like in ear, knitting needles and yarn and getting out of the couch when all of a sudden...YES my back goes! For the love of GOD! SO I quickly get off the phone, get ice, take my meds and sit down and rest a bit. Jeff gets mad because I am in control of my own situation...I did not know being born with a bad back was in my control, but I do know that my over all body is! That I get...If you have known me long, you have know I have battled my weight all my life it seems. But when oh when will I ever get it under control?

In March of 2009, after my December fall, my back was so bad I was laid up for 3 weeks...the worst ever...not to mention that I had a 1 and a half yr old who needed me, a husband and a crappy job! So I began losing weight and taking my life back. 75 lbs later, I feel better, Not sure if I look better...but I also feel that my back is better...with less flare ups.

So after this happened...I guess it all came rushing back to me. I stepped on the scale and I gain 5 lbs back of the 75! That I am not proud of! So if you think about it...it is like strapping on a 50 lb bag of flour...So...I was thinking back as to when I feel the best...it is when I am swimming... and in the summer time...I am walking more and swimming! Did I mention swimming? It is a natural decompresson of your back...so starting this week...I am hitting the pool again! I need to bit my core and keep it there. My problem has ALWAYS been...once I feel better I stop doing what is making me feel better...then I pretend like I am super woman...which I am not! So now I have bible veres's all over the house, along with little notes to remind me what I need to do with my posture and such. So wish me luck...this blog may become my weight loss blog! LOL

Sorry it has been a while!

2011-02-17T09:10:00.004-05:00

One of our favorite books to read!

Here is the most recent picture of Julian!

I know...I am horrible at keeping up on my blog, and I really want to post everyday...and honestly I forgot my password...so now I am back and know it so no excuses!!! I must say...I love Julian's pre-school and I love Face book! I have made so many new friends that I can count on to be there when needed and they are not out just for themselves. It is such a blessing! My knitting is coming along great! I have so many to post for sale, I am not sure when or where I will find the time! I am working on my new project of redoing my family room window treatments. I am getting rid of the Valences and doing new rods. I am so glad we made the change! I love my library and I am in the all the time! I love to just sit there and read my bible or just a nice parenting mag that has come in the mail!

Jeff has been working so much overtime, it seems like we are passing ships! On the Job front...there really is nothing to speak of. Which is kind of depressing...but I know that God has a plan for us and I just have to follow His lead! This year I am turning 40 and we (Jeff and I ) are planning on going away...I am really thinking Niagara Falls Canada...even though it is in our back yard, it has changed so much in the past few years that I am looking forward to it. We DO NOT gamble so the casino is out of the question...so I think we will do a few day trips to little sweet towns in the area. I have been so blessed with such a wonderful husband, words cannot express my love for him. When you see others struggle with their marriage you really evaluate yours and I am amazed at house wonderful ours has become and how grateful I am for him.

Julian has been amazing...he is smart---reading, writing, making flash cards...funny---he is so funny...the things that come out of his mouth are so funny...every night he tells his pillow pet (Rufus) about his day for the time he wakes up to the time it is ready for bed. It is so sweet. He is so sweet...my sweet little boy...he is such a help around the house...he knows when my back hurts and makes it easy for me. Plus he is so handsome! I can't believe how much his looks have stayed the same...Such a handsome little guy!

My family has been healthy and wonderful as well! I am so blessed to have my parents here with us. They just love Julian and us so much, it is such a blessing! My brother is married almost a year now...with his work and family life, we hardly see him...but he is happy and that is what counts! Gram is still alive and kicking! 88 years young! I think she has more energy then I!

The things kids say...

2010-12-01T13:55:00.003-05:00

So, the worst words we say in our house is Damn it...I know...shame on us! Well while Jeff was doing the turkey, something fell out of the oven and he said "DAMN IT!" Julian happen to be standing right there and he repeated it...I told Julian that it was a bad word and that he could say DARN IT if he likes...so fast forward to Thanksgiving night...he was playing in one of his toy boxes and it fell and this is how it went down...

Julian: DAMN IT MOMMY...

Mommy: Julian, did you just say DARN IT?

Julian: No, I said DAMN IT!

Well we almost fell out of our chairs laughing, but had to hide it. SO the next day, all he was saying was DARN IT, DARN IT, DARN IT...Now, I told him...say OH MAN instead! LOL

Becoming a passion of mine...

2010-11-29T21:24:00.004-05:00

Outside on a chilly fall afternoon...I love this picture of him!

This is his pre school picture...so handsome! He is growing up so fast!

I made this wreath for $7.00! I had the wreath already and wanted to do a different look! We won best wreath for the fall in our Village, So I hope we win for the Holiday decorating too!

Every year I try to do something different...this year is a child theme mantel...since this is where we spend most of our time why not! It turned out really sweet and I am glad I thought of it...I have to tweek it a bit but for now this is it!

I am loving decorating my new home...well it isn't new, but since we have changed the rooms around it feels new to me! I so love my family room and so does the rest of the family!

How are you? Whole lot of changes here!

2010-10-06T18:12:00.005-04:00

Our new Fantastic room

Our Library...I love to sit in here and just read! I am reading The Help right now! Love this room!

This is on my mantel in my Fantastic room....I so love it!!!

So, how are things with you? With facebook, it seems I don't blog that much...but I try my best! So things have been great here at our house! Julian is doing great at school! His speech is coming along so nice! Praise God for that! Jeff is doing great too! Work is work for him...I lost my job at WFHM...but all is good! God has a plan and for now I am a stay at home mom while looking for a job...not much out there...but He will provide! We are all healthy here. I have been having a problem with my left hip that has been inpairing me from working out...thus the weight loss has come to a hault! So I went to the Dr. today and it is bursitis...poking around finding the spot was the most painful part...now I am feeling better...so we will see if that correct the situation.

I have uploaded some pictures of the changes we have made some changes with the house to make it more livable with a 3 year old and his friends! Thanks to my mom and Jeff for helping me out! We are working on the window treatments and then all should be done! It has been fun!

We are going away on our annual wine weekend...it seems like it is just going to be us and our best friends Katie and Patrick...every year it seems like we gain people and lose people...This year we are doing it in October...normally it is in November, so that kind of made it difficult for the others to attened. So it should be a great weekend anyway. It will be nice to reconnect with Jeff and our BFF's. So life is good...I hope everything is well with you and yours! Comments are always welcomed!

Pre School time!

2010-09-13T18:15:00.005-04:00

Off to school with Bob!
Daddy and Julian

At a party over the weekend!

I have to say that is picture on top is one of my all time favorites!!! How about you? Doesn't Julian look fabulous? ( the one with me on the top of the page)

Well it is that time of year again! My favorite time of year! Life has never been better for our family and once again we are incredibly blessed! Julian started a wonderful pre school and he has the best teacher we could ask for...another adoptive mother! How amazing is that! I knew I liked her from our first meeting...God plays a part in our lives and it is only when you are looking do you see Him!

We are redoing Julian's bedroom to a big boy bedroom. It is bitter sweet for me, but I am excited to see this journey begin! I can't say how much I love being the mother of an only child. Actually just being a mother is exciting enough for me! One or two...which ever he has in store for us...we are ready!

As you may know, I was laid off from my job at Wells Fargo. I guess it is the sign of the times! We will see what door opens for me. My stress level, health, and just over all life is so different. I didn't really realize how CONSUMING my job really was. My cell phone is quite, I am not on the computer but for night time. All my time is dedicated to Julian and Jeffrey...

I will be setting up a new blog, more faith based. So I will let you know when I make my first post there. Julian is in Pre School 3 days a week, so we will see what I will do with my time! Keeping you all posted!

Happy Birthday to my baby boy!

2010-08-16T20:46:00.004-04:00

Just Chillin!

Julian with Kena...she is a sweet heart!

Picking a couple of BOB's for us!

Waiting for the music to begin at KVIS

Wow...3 years has gone by in a flash! Julian starts per school in September, so I have taken the week off from work to spend time with him. He is just amazing! He is counting and spelling on a 5 year old level! We had him tested for his speech to continue services with the school district...personally I don't think he needs it and neither do the 3 testers that were here...so praise god for that. It was like a light switch went off...he is talking so clear and he is so smart and funny! We have had a great summer...he is my little buddy and can't imagen my life without him!

Oh what shall I do?...

2010-06-15T09:50:00.002-04:00

So I have been told by many that I should become a professional blogger...You know I love to blog, life has been so crazy that I haven't found the time to do so. My dear friend Dorothy thinks the stories I tell are so funny and yesterday she told me again that I should think about doing this. But what would my over all topic be?
****Family
****Being a working mother...the trails and tribulations
****being a daughter of a mother who is an only child and how I have to help with my pain the butt grandmother? On that topic, we say that the only reason why Julian is so in love with her, is because he doesn't know any better...YET! Lol I have never seen my grandmother this happy in her life. Of course I haven't been around her all my life...we started seeing her more when I was around 15, when she had her heart attack and we had to move her closer to us and she came to work for my mother at our real estate office.
****Being the mother of an only child and my desires to have another...on some days and others I am glad he is an only child?
****OR how it is a man's world out there in the business field?

So let me know what you think...I would love to know your thoughts on this. I plan on doing this I hope on a daily basis...Maybe I will talk about toddler hood and life lesson of mine. Looking forward to hearing your thoughts!

This and that...

2010-04-26T14:00:00.002-04:00

Photo of the week...

He was 18 months here...gosh how time flyes! I loved when he could wear the footed PJ's now, he just leaks everywhere...so as we progress witht he potty training maybe we can work our way back to those!

Well just when you think a phase is long gone...it sneeks back up and slaps you across the face! Yes that is what my little cutie pie did to me today! Well, needless to say it caught me off guard...kinda like a sucker punch! So what do you do? Slap him back...that does not make much sense does it...so what is a mom to do...looking for input with that...also, if you have a child who knows you don't have the strength to lift him and put him in a time out...what do you do? I begin to lose my patience and then just let him win...which we all know will for sure bite me in the butt down the line! He NEVER acts up at school or at church, so I am wondering why he does it to me...suggestions and feed back is apprecaited! As always...sending you hugs and blessings!

My brothers wedding...

2010-04-19T13:18:00.002-04:00

Me and my mom

Me and Gram

Julian with his new cousin's

My brother and his bride

Well the wedding was great! The pictures are small, but I will reload them later...just wanted to post them.

Picture of the week!

2010-04-12T17:58:00.002-04:00

If I could turn back the hands of time...I would! I so would in a heart beat! I can remember this day like it was yesterday...it was a day in June and it was warm outside of the water but when you were wet you were cold! He was sitting on his Papa's lap...I think this is one of the most beautiful pictures of him. He was 8 months old...now I know after experiencing this age, it was like no other...it is one of my most favorite ages...I really think I took for granted when people say "they grow up so fast" Man do they ever! Now I have an Octopus on my hands...I swear he has 8 hands...and they are grabbing everything! Maybe it is because I restricted him too much, or it is just his age...

He is talking so much! Today he said "turn on blue!" 3 words! What a delight! He has been signing for so long, it has become a habit for us all...I have to remind myself to tell him to use his words...sometimes I tell him what to say so he repeats it...but it is very exciting!

My brother is getting married on Friday. Finally...married at 40! Who would have thought! It is a blessing that is for sure! His bride to be has 2 children, a son who is 8 and a daughter who is 8 days older then Julian. So we are looking forward to having these little blessings around! I am glad for Julian, he will have cousin he is close to...not just in age, but in visiting as well.

I will post again this week...keep an eye out! I am trying my best to post! If you are reading this, please leave a message...I know who you are lurking out there...stop by and say hi!

Changing me...one step at a time...

2010-04-08T13:37:00.002-04:00

I have come to realize that when you have a bad back everything can be a challenge...but Carrying extra weight can make it worse...so over the last 14 months I have lost over 65 lbs. I haven't really told many people, because I am doing it for me...not for my husband, not for Julian, not for the attention...but for ME. I Will be 39 in June and I have a goal of where I would like to be by 40...it is obtainable...and I am losing it slow, so it should stay off. This year I have made it a point to conquering my fears. I don't like to travel, so I went away on business and did just fine. Taking Julian places for me is always fearful...not sure how things are going to go with my back and such...i have been taking him more places by myself. My next fear I am working on is read aloud to people. My brother is getting married on the 16th and asked me to do a reading at his wedding...at first I was going to say no becasue of my fear...but I said yes! I will keep you posted on how it goes. I guess we all have fear some have more then others...I have alot...so now I putting my faith back into God and having HIM help me along the way! Life is good in so many ways...just taking it one day at a time!

Photo of the week!

2010-04-06T10:19:00.002-04:00

PHOTO OF THE WEEK...THIS WAS WHEN HE WAS 8 MONTHS OLD...Hard to believe he is now 32 months old. Wow time does fly by...we have been having fun the entire way! I am going to try to do this every week!

For us...this week he has put 3 words together...Mama and Daddy...3 words! I am teaching him to say I LOVE YOU...If you ever had a child with a speech delay every word matters to you...it is the sweetest sounds to a mothers ears! He is so bright...he is just dieing to talk...he babbles all day...points and says things that I don't understand, so it is frustrating for all...but he has come so far in just one month post surgery! I don't regret having the surgery...I do regret it took so long to have it done and that no one was listening to me...until our wonderful ENT came along! God has given us many blessings...Julian is our most precious one!

Happy Easter!

2010-04-04T21:16:00.003-04:00

My little artist! We try to craft day every day I am home with him. I thought I would break out the paint...it was fun! I am sure this is going to be an on going craft! He loves to paint and color!
Uncle Damon with my little pouty baby! LOL

Julian and Nana and Papa...he just loves them! And they love him too!

Grammy with Julian

Nana and he sweetie!

Well we had a wonderful day...we are constantly reminded how blessed we really are with our son Julian. He is just an amazing child! His speech is coming along so nice, and saying 2 and 3 word sentances now...it is very exciting to see how excited he is when he says things and we get it!

Hello again!

2010-03-08T09:03:00.004-05:00

I know, I know...it has been along time since my last post! So much is going on, and as you all know, I am a working mother, along with being a wife, daughter and grand-daughter...I am so busy some days, I can't even see straight! As you also know, Julian has been having speech delay and for months, I mean months, I have been taking to his doctor, along with our speech therapist about this...mostly him being tongue tied...I knew this little girl along time ago who had this and once they snipped the little piece of skin under her tongue, her speech took off. Everyone said that wasn't it...that he is just delayed. Mother's do know best! I finally took him to a wonderful ENT and the first thing out of his mouth was "He is tongue tied!" So we did tubes in the ears and released the skin. He isn't talking up a storm yet, but it is coming along great! He is babbling more and is talking more...so we will see how this goes! Keep your fingers crossed!

So I am starting a little business...at home...I love to knit...I knit scarves all the time...so I am going to sell them now. I have a website that I am getting up and running and will post the address soon. I also will be making tooth fairy boxes for little boys and little girls...deco pageing...I am also doing keepsake boxes as well. I thought it would be wonderful to have a box that we could put out little ones things, like the wrist band from when they come home to us and other wonderful things. Keep an eye out for that as well!

It's been a while!

2010-01-29T08:19:00.003-05:00

He loves to play with play dough!
This is his "say cheese" face!

Those brown eyes kill me every time!

Best friend! What is a best friend? Someone who is ALWAYS there for you, even when they are busy and have life going on. I am so thankful to have Katie in my life! She has been the best friend that has ALWAYS been there for me. With 3 beautiful children of her own, she does so much for everyone...Love you Katie! I could have gotten this far without your friendship!

Sorry it has been so long since I have posted...we have been very busy with life in general! Julian is doing great! We have had a few set backs with illness's, but everything else is going great! He loves school and I am so glad for that! He is very bright and learns new things very quickly! We are going to get his ears checked for tubes...since he has been in school, he has had many ear infections...so I am taking him to one of the best in the area to see what we can do!

Long time no post...

2009-11-30T18:11:00.003-05:00

Doing his ABC's at Nana's house
Singing....

I love when he curls his toes...

Smile baby!

This face! I can't stand it!!!!

Yeah I know...it has been a while...Julian is doing great...talking up a storm...finally! He cracks me up with what he says...he is just too darn cute! The house is decorated for Christmas...thank god for that! I always do it the weekend after Thanksgiving...always have...Always will! Things are good over here...he is getting so big...at his last appointment he was 36 inches tall and 36 lbs! A perfect square! LOL

He is doing really well with Potty training...he asks to go to the potty all the time and always goes...he totally amazes me! I will have some more pictures to post in a few days! Enjoy!

He is loving school and I know we made the right choice for schools...I don't call it day care...it is not free play...they have schedule they follow and he is thriving there!

New post...

2009-09-19T08:41:00.005-04:00

1st day of school, right before we left...

When we got home...1st time mommy...silly girl!

At the peach Festival in Lewiston NY...he wasn't feeling great that day...you can see it in his eyes..

Labor day... not the best picture but he is so cute in his RL shirt!

Last day of swimming at Nana and Papa's...we no longer need the arm floats WOO HOO!!

Hi all...Well since our last post, Julian has started Early Childhood...we don't call it daycare, because it really isn't daycare...he goes Monday's and Wednesdays from 9-12:30...he just loves it. We have him going to the Jewish Community Center...we have heard wonderful things about this program and all of it is true! He has a great teacher and we are so pleased with everything. We looked at 2 other places, but honestly I didn't want him going somewhere that they were just doing free play. I wanted a school enviroment. He is very bright...has known his letters and numbers for 6 months now, we are working on his speech with his teacher and it is making all the difference. He loves to play with the kids...he just loves kids all together. He is great for a playdate that is for sure...no hitting or anything like that...thank god! And you know what goes along with school is sickness! He had his first ear infection...not fun...but to be 25 months and not have a single antibiotic in him is pretty amazing...even the doctor mention that. But he is a champ!

I hope to post more but...you know how it goes!

August 23, 2003...

2009-08-23T09:57:00.004-04:00

So this is the day that I always dread. It was a beautiful Saturday afternoon...the clouds were white and puffy...the days prior it was so hot...90 almost every day...this day it was finally a cool day...maybe 70 degrees the sun was shining and there was a nice breeze. The day prior to this day, we had just found out that our baby was dieing...his heart beat was fading and there was nothing we could do about it...except pray. And that is what we did. So on that morning, Jeff went to work to start his new position withe the post office and I was waiting for a client to come to the house.

I had never been busier in my mortgage carrier...it was 2003...a lifetime ago. I was in the middle of a miscarriage so I thought...I had been having contractions all night and morning...once my clients left, they really started to come on strong...I decided to lay down, figuring it would pass...I then felt a pop in my belly...like a balloon...then the next thing I knew...I was delivering my son...I was home alone...there was blood everywhere. The next 8 hours would be the worst of my life. I began to hemmerige (sp) It was very scary. Thank god for my parents and a wonderful Dr. that saved me. From that point forward, I knew somewhere in my heart that I would survive this and be a mother one day...I always knew that I would adopt. Jeff came to the hospital and we soon left to go home to a quite and empty house. As we were driving home, I looked at him and said...his name is Joseph. And that was all that was said until the next day. I didn't want to talk to any one or see anyone...I wanted to be left alone.

The following 4 months were a blur. I woke up everyday and cried from the time I woke up to the time I fell asleep. Life was not easy for anyone around me. Come to find out , now looking back at everything...it was Gods way of preparing me for the mother I was going to be come just shy of 4 years later.

Today is a sad day for me. I think of my little Joe and wonder what he would look like, what his personallity would be like...he would be starting school...I see my nephew who was born December of 2003 and think of my little Joe.

But as i sit here in my living room, on a day similar to that day, I hear the laughter of my son in the family room...the singing that comes from his mouth is peaceful.

In order to get here today, we had to be there August 23, 2003. I will never forget this day...and every year get a little bit better. Julian and I will be visiting Little Joe today before we go to my parents for the day. I am so thankful for the gift that God has given us...but I do miss my little Joe. If he were here, Julian would be not...so I don't regret a thing...I am just sad.

This too shall pass....

2 years ago...

2009-08-08T07:22:00.002-04:00

Today our lives were forever changed! Julian was born at 2:03pm...it was a sunny day, much like this morning...we were so anxious...he was 4 days late and we never thought he would get here. Jeff had taken off of work, we knew that A was in labor, but she had been in labor for 2 days, so we thought Jeff could take off work and we would head down to see her. Well things move from slow to fast and he was born, we got the call just after 4pm. After waiting and waiting, our baby had been born...we were so ready for our lives to change...we sat around all day, I cleaned the upstairs and his bedroom, vacuumed for the 100th time...and at 5pm, I said to Jeff...let's go for dinner and wait for the call...on our way to dinner our attorney called and said get down there...she wants to see you...we drove so fast and furious to get there...I needed to see my baby...and when I saw him, he was like an angel...he was perfect...everything about him was perfect...ten fingers, ten toes...a cute little nose...dimmples...everything...The first time I held him, I think my blood pressure had dropped...all the stress leading up to the birth. If you have adopted you know what I am talking about...if you haven't...the stress is over whelming...It is sometimes unbearable. Everything you have hoped and dreamed for was in someone else's control not yours. But I knew that A was our birth mother and the baby she was carrying was ours.

Summer of 2007 we called "the summer of Julian" everything we did revolved around him...our thoughts, our prayers, every time we went shopping...everywhere we went...we were always thinking about our boy. The picture on top is the first time I held him...he looks so peaceful, so beautiful, like and angel. Well, our angel baby joe, hand picked him along with God...this I know to be true. We suffered a great deal. Most people who adopt have either been pregnant and lost their babies to MC or still born, some have never been pregnant...on August 23, 2004, I delivered baby joe at home, by myself...and man did I suffer...it was the worst thing ever. From that day forward August was the worst month in my life...until August of 2007...Now August for me is so sweet and wonderful...my other August baby lives on with us...forever with us. I think about baby joe all the time...not every day, but alot...what he would have looked like, stuff like that...but now, I look at Julian and think...thank you God for giving me the strength to move forward and open my heart and let love back in. Julian Parker is more then I could ever has asked for...even when he is crying...or throwing a tantrum...like now while I type this...yes he is spoiled...and he will be forever...he is our only child and will remain our only child...we want to give him everything...the best of everything, I am not going to hide the way I feel and how one is enough for us. When you have been through what we have been though...we are thankful for one...one healthy, smart, beautiful child...hand picked by the Lord...made just for us!

We have picked an Early childhood program for him...one of the best in the area...I am not going to put the name on here, but we are very pleased with the director and the curriculum is outstanding...we didn't want him to go somewhere where it is free play...we want him to not only play but learn and thrive. He is very bright and the teacher said that he will be with the 2.5-3 year olds...we are thrilled...he is just so bright...I can't keep him to myself anymore...he needs to be with other children...he is going to love it. First day of school is the 2nd of September...it is only 2 half days. This is a school he will stay in until Kindergarden...we couldn't be happier! So that is what is going on...hugs and blessings!

2 years ago...we were waiting...and waiting...

2009-07-30T09:31:00.002-04:00

Here is the post from 2 years ago from my old blog...It is hard to believe that he is going to be 2 in less then 10 days. Where has this time gone...The first year went by so fast...this past year has gone by fast, but so much has happened...so many milestone...I picked him up from my mother's house after she watched him over night a few weeks ago and he took my breath away...it was like he went from baby to toddler over night...where has my baby gone? He is the sweetest little guy...I truly believe that all children are hand pciked for their family whether it be a bio baby or an adopted baby...they are hand pick...kissed by the lord...I can see the lords kiss on him every day. I useto stand over his crib, before he came home and would pray for the lord to bring us a healthy baby...and he fullfilled all my prayers. After losing a friend to cancer this week...it really makes you appreciate the things you have around you. I will be making entries from 2 years ago through out the next 2 weeks...how you enjoy memory lane!

Monday, July 30, 2007

We're still here...
Yes we are...I guess it was false labor. Oh well. In good time. We are all ready to go so when the call comes we are ready! I have turned over this part over to God. I can't handle the stress anymore. It is killing me. We have no control over this and it is crazy to be this stressed out. I feel so much better this morning after turning it over. What a weight that has been lifted. It is any day now, so I will go to work and continue my same old routine. So I lied when I said you would see my next post annoucning our little guy. It is hard to stay away from blogging. It seems to be the place I can go and let it all out.This summer has been so hot, I feel so bad for those who are pregnant this year. My mother said this is the type of summer it was when I was born. So, we are still here...very patiently waiting...truly we are!

20 year reunion...

2009-07-12T16:20:00.005-04:00

Me in 1989....

Patrick and Jeff...Best Buds...

Me and Beth...we go as far back as middle school...

Bill, Me and Jeff...grade school friends...Jeff and I were best friends in High School...

Me and Katie...Best Friends!!

Well it was this weekend and we had a great time! Reconnecting with old friends...there is nothing like it! It was alot of fun...classmates came from all over...one flew in from Norway, some from California, Florida, Carolina's, and most of the other states. It started out at OHD's Beer Tent, then to Saturday to the formal get together and then today a family Picnic, which we are on our way to now.

Even though the only ones who knew I was down 45 lbs. was my hubby and Katie and Patrick, I still felt great! My back held out and I feel wonderful today...my core is getting stronger and stronger everyday! I have been working on the Pilates machine at PT and I feel like crap when I get home but the next day I feel wonderful!

20 years has come and gone, I look at the years and they really have gone by fast...many boyfriends ago, many friends ago, my husband, 6 pregnancies, our little Joe, Julian entering into our life and here we are...with our best friends by our side, our family, each other...nothing can stop us. We have God on our side...he is with me every minute of everyday...helping me make the choices that a healthy woman/wife/mother would make in her life. No toxic friendships, relationships, just pure love for who is here with us now. Ones who have stood by us through think and thin...the joys of bringing home our son, watching him grow in to a wonderful little boy. He will be 2 next month. Who could think that time has gone by this fast...well 20 years did!

Sending you all Hugs and Blessings!

Let the summer begin!

2009-06-24T12:03:00.002-04:00

Yes...it is finally here...SUMMER! This year we are looking forward to many playdates in our yard, trips to the Zoo, swimming at Nana and Papa's house, long hot summer days and most of all enjoying the blessing we have! Julian! He makes us laugh all day long! He has a great personality. He is very smart...he knows his ABC's and his Numbers...it really is amazing! And he can read a few words in his books. I thought he was memorizing but we had just pulled out a book he had not seen and he picked out the word "daddy" but said Dada.

The new me is coming out of her shell more. I have lost over 40 lbs and still have more to go, but when I had my a ha moment back in March, it changed everything! So I continue to ask the Lord to help me on a daily basis and so far so good! Diet and exercise really does work!

I will post pictures soon...since I am on Facebook...all my pictures are there...we have started the process of Potty Training...oh what fun!!!

I JUST CAN'T GET ENOUGH!!!

2009-05-27T10:08:00.003-04:00

Trying to hide so he doesn't have to leave nana's and papa's
Hiding again...but with humus on his lips...

Admiring the pool he just swam in...

Swimming with daddy

Yes...I know...I am cool!

Misc. Pictures from this year...

2009-05-23T09:42:00.002-04:00

A little bit of this and a little bit of that...

2009-05-23T08:33:00.005-04:00

Not sure who dressed this child of mine...can you tell he is growing like a weed! I need to go shopping!!!
Not sure what he was doing here...I was just snapping pictures

Must be something good in there!

DIRT!!!!

More dirt!

We have raised the net 3 times...one more and we are done!

Playing basketball...look out Michael Jordon!

Our dear friend Evelyn is moving to Indonesia in July with her family. So the girls from church all went out for a nice treat in Williamsville. Great friends...good times! Love my girls!

Mommy was on a confrence call on Friday and this is what Julian does when mommy is on the phone... they always run long, so Julian wanted to do something for me and he moved our rug for us! How sweet!

Baby in the sink...

2009-05-18T19:56:00.002-04:00

So since Julian has been sick...he will eat and then start coughing and then he trows up! Lovely...so we strip him down and in the sink he goes! He loves it! And honestly...so do I! It is the perfect height for me and my back. He splashs and laughs and sometimes he pee's too! Which makes me laugh too! I just love this age...21 months is a fun age...he is discovering more and more, making me laugh harder and harder. He loves to play with my hair, and now that it is getting longer he loves it more. He is such a sweet and beautiful baby...We are so blessed!

We have friends that expecting their first baby soon...their jouney to parenthood has been much like ours...we pray for a safe delivery and that everything stays on track. They are going through what we went through almost 2 years ago.

My little baby is not so little anymore...but he loves to snuggle and give lots of hugs and kisses...mommy loves those kisses! I am going to try to keep the blog up to date more...it is a great way to share our Julian with so many who love him!

Looking forward to a bunch of play dates this summer. We have a great size yard...my parents have a great pool for a play date too! So we are looking forward to swimming with friends! Hugs and Blessings

OMG...has it been that long?

2009-05-14T19:08:00.003-04:00

I can't believe it has been that long since my last post! Well, needless to say things are busy and wonderful! He is now 3 feet tall! 32 lbs...but he has had a nasty cold...but he is getting better. These are some recent pictures of him playing in the yard. He LOVES to be outside and when he is at my parents house he is ALWAYS outside. The pool will be opening soon...this year will be fun for sure! I have been crazy busy with work...I am so thankful that I am able to work from home. It sure has made it easier. He knows his numbers and letters...I know it sounds hard to believe but if you put numbers from 1-20 in front of him and ask him "where is the number 5" He points right to it! He also knows his ABC's too! We have a smart baby on our hands here. Which is good and bad...good that he is so smart...bad because we have to becareful with what we say! LOL I have more pictures from the spring I will post soon. We have a ton on Facebook...that is where I have been...shhhhh don't tell anyone! LOL

Prayers Please...

2009-02-20T21:27:00.002-05:00

Hi everyone...I know you know that I am a strong believer in praying...well this is a shout out to all my readers of my blog...and my lurkers...I know I have many! My dear friend Deana is fighting for her life tonight. She has Burkitt's Lymphoma and her body is not responding to the chemo the way we would like it to. So I ask you to pray for her, her family and her friends. Also pray for the doctors who are working with her to find a cure for this horrible horrible lymphoma she has. She has 2 beautiful boys who love her deeply and want their mommy back! We need to pray for her...pray for the strength to get through this fight.

Deana is just an amazing woman. She was there for us during our adoption journey...cheering us on...helping me keep the faith...we live 3000 miles away and have always talked about getting our boys together...If you look at the picture you will see a strong resemblance of Julian and her boys.

Please tonight when you go to bed...ask god to help her, to help her husband and parents keep the faith during this very difficult time...please I ask this of you. Thank you!

Make sure you scroll down...

2009-02-14T20:48:00.001-05:00

I know it is in here somewhere!

I have uploaded a bunch of pictures...I love this one!

Happy Valentines Day!

2009-02-14T20:46:00.001-05:00

Happy Birthday Nonni! My grandmothers birthday...another year here!!!

His new best friend!

2009-02-14T20:42:00.005-05:00

We went to Brenna's birthday party and there were balloons there...who would have thought they would be Julian's best friend for the night! And the next day!

Is mommy watching????

2009-02-14T20:39:00.003-05:00

He cracks me up! He looks so proud in the last picture!

Craft Time

2009-02-14T20:33:00.003-05:00

We made our first picture the other day...it was much more fun fo rhim then me...he needed a bath afterwords...his one hand was all green and the other was red! But we had fun!

Try this...

2009-01-21T14:30:00.001-05:00

A friend of mine posted on her Face Book page this little receipe for a winter time drink...

Lots of snow + a good amount of milk + as much sugar as you like + a little bit of vanilla = yummy!! Just make sure you get clean snow.

So if you have good clean snow try it out! Enjoy!!!

Video from Christmas Morning

2009-01-09T21:22:00.003-05:00

Here is Julian un wrapping one of his gifts. Our camcorder wasn't working...so I had to use my camera. Not too bad...

Finally a post!

2009-01-08T21:38:00.004-05:00

So...finally a post! I have been so busy with work...rates are at a 40 year low, so needless to say...that is where my free time has gone...to work!

The Monday before Christmas I fell pretty hard outside down the stairs...thank god Julian was not in my arms! So i tweeked my back and we cancelled christmas eve...it was a very quite but nice night at home!

Christmas morning we woke up and Julian came into bed with us for a bit, snuggled and watched Little Einstein's (his favorite show in the world...he loves music...classical music to be exact!) We then went down stairs to open gifts...he had fun! I think he was a bit overwhelmed with all his gifts...Daddy made an amazing breakfest for us...what a wonderful christmas...a day that Jeff and dreamed about for so long! I think I cried maybe 7 times that day...I lost count! When things don't come easy to you...sometimes it is hard to believe when it does happen, that it is really happening...does that make sence?

Then it was off to Nana and Papa's house. We had so much fun there...visiting, sharing stories from when we were little, and just being around family. Dad is healthy and with us, so that was the best gift of all!

Jeff had off from work for 5 days...it was wonderful having him home. Julian spent Christmas night at Nana and papa's house...a tradition...the next day Jeff and I went to the installation of our good friend who is not a State Supreme Court Judge...it was a once in a lifetime event! Amazing!

We have been so blessed in so many ways... enjoy looking at the pictures!!! hugs and blessings

Christmas morning...

mommy helping...oh I like spinning the wheels!

Another one!

Eugene is not sure of this stuff!

Now what do we have here...Eugene help me!

Me and My gram

Dad and I

Jeff and I

Jeff, dad and hannah

Attemping a family photo...

Maybe this way is better

Playing with Uncle Damon....

Playing...

Boy this playing makes you thirsty!

Reading is fun!

2008-12-17T21:14:00.006-05:00

So today we spent most of the day reading...he loves books...he has about 200 of them! No joke...a ton! So I had to get the camera out to snap some pictures of my beautiful boy! This sweater I bought him last year and he wore it once. I kept it hoping he could wear it this year and it fits...a little short in the arms but you really cant tell!

Here he is reading Charlie Brown's Christmas...
Not sure what he is saying...

oh no...he is getting off the couch...

he is heading for the camera...

Christmas photo shoot...

2008-12-08T20:59:00.002-05:00

you talkin' to me?
so we did our photo shoot...I hate to spend the money and get a crapy pictures...so we do them ourselves and they ALWAYS come put better! So here is the one that didn't make it on the card!

Discovering new/old toys...

2008-12-08T12:45:00.002-05:00

This ball rolls all over the place, but when it gets on the hardwood floors it makes this terrible sound and freaks Julian out...so here he is playing under the dining room table with it...Mommy had to make sure it stayed on the rug!
This was a birthday gift from his cousins, he is just now learning that he can ride on it...so he began to ride it only it was going backwards...he wanted nothing to do with it if he was going forwards...he is too much! If you look real close you will see a little shiner under his eye! Yes...he was running around the house and whamo! Right into the leg of a table! I am thankful that he didn't get really hurt and also that we did our Christmas picture photo shoot on Saturday...there were no bumps or bruises!