Mama Stone

Long Island Aquarium with Grandma

2009-09-30T10:35:00.005-04:00

Dentist

2009-09-28T11:50:00.006-04:00

Ryan's first dentist appointment! I had been prepping him for weeks. Counting his teeth, flossing, telling him about the dentist and everything that the Dr. would do. Ryan was actually excited and did exceptionally well. He chose chocolate flavored flouride for his cleaning and he even let the dentist floss his little teeth. I'm so proud of my little man! :)

Celebrating 5 years

2009-09-14T12:18:00.008-04:00

Kale and I decided to celebrate our 5th anniversary with a weekend getaway. We had his parents come down for the weekend to babysit, and we booked a local B&B. It was a Wine and Roses package, including 2 nights, chocolates, massages and dinner for two. Sounds nice right? We were in the heart of Lancaster county, in an old Farm House. It was a really neat place with lots of history.

Here's where I'm still a little confused. It was our first B&B experience. I guess I had expectations about what I thought it would be like. Our first impression was just weird. It was so strange to be staying in a stranger's home. They were a really nice family, young couple with children. The biggest problem I had was that I felt like I needed to whisper the whole time. If I was quiet, I could hear their conversations. So, I'm sure they could hear us also. The second biggie was the food. I guess what I had expected was a fresh buffet of foods in the morning. When we arrived,the Innkeeper said that our breakfast was already in the room! What? How can that be? Well, apparently, a nice Amish neighbor makes baked goods and these cute little egg casseroles. All we had to do was heat and eat!

Now, I looked at this food in shock. You mean I have to microwave my breakfast?!?! I did take pictures of these surprisingly tasty treats and casseroles. The baked goods were so yummy, we couldn't wait to finish them off in the afternoon. However, when we returned to our tidy room, the treats were gone! Seriously? We did get a replacement later in the evening for our next days breakfast though.

Ok, one more thing. The main reason we chose this particular B&B was because it had an outdoor hot tub. Nice. The weather didn't cooperate for most of the weekend. So, Saturday night after our romantic dinner for two, we were ready to soak! Only to find out that it was cold! Apparently, something happened to the heater and it wouldn't be hot until the next day. As we were checking out!

Now, the good part was the romantic package. The wine, chocolate covered strawberries, dinner reservations (later than we would have like, but delicious), and the massages (oddly scheduled during checkout time, but amazing). We also toured the Julius Sturgis Pretzel factory and Wilbur's Chocolate factory on Saturday afternoon.

It was really nice to get away and spend alone and undistracted time with my husband. I did miss my babies terribly though! I also loved waking up on Sunday morning to the clip-ity-clop of the Amish buggies going to church :) They rode right passed our room. The weather was perfect on Sunday, so lots of Amish and Mennonites were out riding their bikes and walking to church also. My favorite buggy was the one with a little boy looking out the back window of the buggy. He was so cute.

Overall, it was strange, but good. Definitely an adventure and I love a good adventure. I'm already planning my next one. Might even try another B&B, who knows!

Oh yeah, one more thing. While we were at dinner, they snuck in and sprinkled rose petals on our bed and place a hershey's kiss on each pillow. Romantic? However, they stole one of my dozen roses to do that. Weird? or is it just me? All I could think was great, they killed my rose and now i have to clean up the mess! LOL! Maybe I'm just not a B&B kinda girl.

Click on the link to see the pictures :)
http://www5.snapfish.com/thumbnailshare/AlbumID=1991696008/a=39577534_39577534/otsc=SHR/otsi=SALBlink/COBRAND_NAME=snapfish/

First Day of Preschool 9/10/09

2009-09-14T10:41:00.005-04:00

My big boy eating his breakfast on the big day!

Dressed and still eating.

Waiting patiently for mommy and Julia.

The classic ready for my first day of school picture.

One last goofy smile before the teacher takes me out of the car :)

Not surprisingly, Ryan couldn't wait for his first day of preschool. Julia and I were looking forward to it as well. Not that we wouldn't miss Ryan, but we were looking forward to some girl time. Ryan went happily and returned even happier. He loved his first day. His favorite part was playing outside and his favorite friend was, "Noah, because he shared with me". How sweet is that?

I was so excited for Ryan, but as soon as we pulled away, I looked back at the empty seat. For a moment I had that panicked feeling, "what have I done? I just left my son with strangers!" Tears welled up, but I didn't cry. I missed him already......

Well, the time went fast. Julia and I went food shopping and then hung out until she got tired. I had to wake her up to go and get Ryan. He was so excited to see us and tell us all about school. He came home with a sticker that said, "Ryan had a great first day at preschool." And he did.

Past 6 months.

2009-09-09T22:06:00.003-04:00

Wow! Let's see if I can remember some of the Stone family highlights from the last six months:

Ryan~has turned 3! He was so happy to be three and celebrate with a family birthday party. We also took him to Strasburg to ride on the steam train and visit the train museum. He absolutely loved it. Ryan is also fully potty trained. We celebrated after no diapers for one month with a trip to Sesame Place. (that's how I bribed him to take care of business only on the potty ;) Tomorrow is the first day of preschool for my little man. He truly is excited for school, and I'm excited for him. I'm also pretty happy about spending a few hours of quality time with Julia.

Julia~has been growing and blossoming. Now, at 18 months my little darling is in the 50th %tile for height and weight! Perfectly average young lady. I love her sweet, but stubborn spirit. That girl knows what she wants. Julia's vocabulary seems to be exploding lately. She loves to shout MAMA and RYAN. But everyday she seems to surprise me with the little things she says. The doctor asked if Julia says a handful of words, I laughed. She says so many, I lost count. Julia loves shoes and to play in the dirt with Ryan, and she still can't live w/o her little ducky.

Kale is still working on the basement. The biggest "project" ever. So, 2 and 1/2 years later and I think it's almost done! I must say, it is amazing what he has done down there and I am sooooo excited to finally be ordering some carpet and "moving in".

We've had the opportunity to go on a few little family vacations. We took our annual trip to Bethany Beach. We also went to a Yogi Bear campground and visited Knoebel's Grove. Oh, and in April, we were able to visit Long Island where I was blessed to celebrate a nearly 16 year High School Reunion!

Well, that's it, I think. I'm sure I left out tons, and I know that doesn't do it justice.

July 09 (42 photos), by Robyn Stone

2009-09-08T17:21:00.002-04:00

I'd like to share my Snapfish photos with you. Once you have checked out my photos you can order prints and upload your own photos to share.

Oh wow! I just figured out how to post my snapfish pictures quickly and easily. Thank God!

Who has time to blog?

2009-09-08T14:40:00.002-04:00

Well, I realize that it has been like FOREVER since my last post. Ok, well actually it was like six months ago, but still....too long. Anyway, my excuse lies in the fact that I just don't seem to have the time or patience to post and add my beloved pictures. Well, mostly it's just patience. It seems like everything I try to do on this computer takes FOREVER! Ok, maybe I'm exaggerating a little.....again......but it drives me nuts!

I have recently made a career change. I no longer work at HACC teaching nursing clinicals to the students. Basically, in order to keep my job, I was told that I needed to pursue a Master's Degree in Nursing. After much thought, prayer, consideration, stress and research........I decided that was not for me. I mean seriously, I didn't even have time to blog...........where would I find the time for grad school, or the money for that matter?

Right now, my children are my world. I work just enough to pay the bills and have some fun. Is it a sacrifice? Financially yes, but I wouldn't trade my time with my kids for anything. So, in the meantime, I am still a L&D nurse in the evenings/weekends and stay at home mom during the day. I also plan to start blogging a little. Just to keep my 2 followers happy :)

I know I'm rambling now, but it's been a while........give me chance to get back in the swing of things!

p.s. have i ever mentioned how satisfying it is when the spellcheck comes back with no errors? delightful!

Happy Birthday Julia :)

2009-02-19T11:21:00.003-05:00

My little sweetie turned one on the 16th! It's so hard to believe that a year has already passed.........Julia is one! She truly is a sweet little girl. I call her my little cupcake :)

We celebrated her birthday with a small party on Valentine's Day. We had pizza and cake. Julia seemed to enjoy it all. She has been very playful lately, smiling and laughing. Walking with assistance and babbling all kinds of cute noises. She now has 4 teeth and has dropped down below the 75th percentile for weight! And her height is now below the 25th percentile. Yup, she's like her mama......

So, Happy Birthday Julia!!!! We love you!!!!

Time Flies!

2009-02-02T11:51:00.001-05:00

WOW! It's been too long since I've blogged last! Mostly b/c I've been so busy that even the thought of blogging was overwhelming.

Here's a quick recap of the last few months:
~Julia turned 10 months old, then 11 months old and soon we'll be celebrating her 1st b-day! She's as precious and cute as ever. Walking really well with help and stands hands-free sometimes. She's currently getting her top two teeth!
~Ryan has thoroughly enjoyed Christmas this year. We celebrated in North Bend with Grammy and Pap-pap, then at home and then on LI with Grandma Muller and then again with Grandpa Muller! He LOVES Christmas. We got a little tree this year from a local farm, and when it went to the curb Ryan was really sad. He kept saying, "I want my tree back Dada." So cute. We visited Montalk over Christmas also and rode the LI train back to Grandma's house. I think that was the highlight of the trip for Ryan....he loves trains :)
~We rang in the New Year right here in Dillsburg. Man I love this little town......they actually drop a Pickle in the square every year! Michele, John, Kyla and Grandma visited for the week too. We even sampled the pickle soup from the fire hall where they also play BINGO every year. Next year I'm hoping to get in on a game.....anyone want to join me?
~The annual farm show was great also. Ryan loved it. We got our milkshakes and baked potatoes, saw all of the animals and tested out the tractors. But all Ryan will talk about is the lamb that pooped in the grass! LOL, i love that kid. I even picked some grass and put it in the toilet as incentive for him to poop on the potty and it worked!
~My semester with HACC has started and I'm really loving it. I feel so blessed to have such a great job. We also had the in-laws come and stay with us for a week to help with the kids and basement. Kale and his Dad got a lot done and we're hoping to start painting by spring. I can't wait!!!
~And most recently, we celebrated my 34th birthday! Nope, I'm not afraid to admit it. I really stopped counting at 27, but I don't care anymore. Ryan sang to me all day and we celebrated with the best pizza place in town and a Carvel cake that my MIL got me! It was great.

Hope that helps catch you all up on the lives of the Stones. And of course I'm trying to catch up on my pictures. I'll post some Snapfish links b/c I have way too many to sort through right now :)

Julia is 9 months!

2008-12-04T10:17:00.007-05:00

Julia went to the doc a few weeks ago for her 9 month visit. Beautiful and healthy as always, but this time they exclaimed, "Julia, you're on the charts!". She has finally dropped down the the 90th percentile for weight :)

Now weighing 22 pounds and is 27 and a half inches tall. Julia enjoys crawling, kneeling, pulling up to standing, singing, dancing and clapping. In five minutes that girl can have all toys scattered across the room. She loves the mega blocks and basket of balls. She now looks at me and says Ma-ma. The sweetest sound in the world! And her hair is as wild as ever. I've started blow drying it and I plan to trim it soon. I'm also considering earings, any advice? Kale wants nothing to do with that!

My little man

2008-12-04T09:58:00.005-05:00

Ryan has been so fun lately. I thought that I would tell of few stories of his cuteness. Everyone knows that I just love him, but here are a few reasons why.

Last week, Ryan woke up crying. So Kale went in his room, got him, and brought him to me. I was still in bed. Ryan snuggled up next to me, looked into my eyes, smiled, and said "I love you". I mean seriously! How precious is that?

The other day, I went into Ryan's room. Got my good morning hugs and kisses and then turned to get his clothes out of the closet. This is what I heard from behind, "mommy pretty". I was like, "awwh, Ryan! I love you!" He's just the sweetest!

Yesterday we went to the doc for Flu shots. Ryan went first and screamed. Crying now, the nurse asked if she could put a band aid on it. He asked her to put it on his nose. She thought that was really cute. He talked about the band aid he got on his nose all day. Not about the sticker or the lolly pop, but the band aid on his nose!

My last story, for now:

I started helping in the church nursery on Wednesday nights. So, Ryan and Julia come with me. Well, 2 weeks ago Ryan heard a 10 minute story about Jonathan and David and learned a song. Last night before church I asked Ryan if he remembered what Miss Dee taught him in church. He showed me 2 fingers and said "stick together". I think that was part of the song. How does he remember that? I don't know, but it was really cute!

And of course this post would not be complete without a picture of my little darling :

Here he is thoroughly enjoying his Thanksgiving meal :)

My Turkey's :)

2008-11-06T22:02:00.006-05:00

While I was at work tonight, my husband decided to take the kids to the grocery store to buy our Thanksgiving turkey. So, he tells Ryan that they are going to get a turkey. Ryan says, "ok let's go to the farm and get a turkey".

They get to the store, pick out the turkey and Ryan completely insists that this turkey must next to him in the cart. One of those toddler seats in the front of the cart, not the baby seat on top. It's the kind where 2 kids can sit side by side, you know? So, Kale appeases Ryan and puts the turkey next to him.

That wasn't enough. Ryan then makes sure that the turkey is safe and insists that the turkey is strapped in! Oh, there's more. Ryan makes a big deal about it and keeps telling dada not to let the turkey get away. So, they're in line and the manager is laughing at them, the cashier thinks it's hysterical, and Ryan keeps telling everyone not to let the turkey get away. Ha ha, everyone thinks it's cute.

Then, Kale unbuckles the turkey, lifts the turkey by the plastic netting, when all of a sudden.....................the netting breaks, the turkey falls, and rolls on the floor, everyone is really laughing now! Ryan yells, "get it, dada!"

What are the odds?!?! All I thought was, did you ask for a discount? :)

Julia is 8 months!

2008-10-28T09:41:00.004-04:00

Julia enjoys rolling and scooting all over the house, watching her big brother, bouncing, music, eating and sleeping!

my wild woman with the ultimate bedhead!

my precious little cupcake :)

Too Long!

2008-10-26T18:40:00.003-04:00

Wow, time flies when you're having fun! It's been a while since I've posted. I've had a really busy month. So much to blog about, so little time!

The family is good. We've made a few weekend trips and I have tons of new pictures to post. We're currently enjoying the fall weather and time together.

Work is going well. I have a new group of students now until the end of the semester.

And Weight Watcher's has sort of been on hold. I haven't really been following my plan too well in all of the craziness. I've also just lost the desire to journal and count my points! I have been aware of my food choices though. I really hope to get back on track and continue to lose this week.

So, for those of you that actually read my blog, I'm hoping to get a few more posts in real soon with some pics!

So Excited!

2008-09-17T10:15:00.003-04:00

I love the Biggest Loser and get so excited when it's on! I actually get sad when it's over and I look forward to it all week long. Pathetic, I know, but I really love it.

The only problem is that I joined a Woman's Bible Study this fall on Tuesday nights and I love it even more than the Biggest Loser. So, I will be taping the show. I know that I will probably have to stay up late to watch the show because I will not want to wait even one day to watch it!

That's exactly what I did last night as I tried to remember all of the new contestants. I only wish they would do a mini biggest loser, for people who have less than 50 to lose so that I could go!

Happy Birthday Kale!

2008-09-17T10:07:00.003-04:00

Happy Birthday. We love you and pray that you have a wonderful year ahead.

Love,

Robyn, Ryan and Julia

Julia is 7 months!

2008-09-17T08:53:00.005-04:00

I am still amazed everyday at the wonderful kids God has blessed me with! Julia is as precious and pleasant as can be. I can't believe it's been 7 months!

Politics

2008-09-12T13:23:00.005-04:00

If you know me, you know I hate politics and discussing politics. Partly because I don't feel that I know enough to discuss issues in detail. Partly because I'm a lover not a fighter! I feel that everyone deserves to have their own opinion. I like discussions, but I don't like arguments. And I feel that many people just can't handle discussing politics respectfully. So, this will probably be my first and last blog on the subject, but I thought it was worthy.

This is a direct quote from my friend Marci's husband Sean. I totally stole this from his blog because I completely agree and couldn't have said it better myself. So, thanks Sean!

"As usual during the elections I have been receiving lots of "forwarded" email smearing Obama, calling him everything from a communist to a terrorist to the antichrist. The watercooler talk at work resounds the same (on both sides). Some of us in the church have latched on to Sarah Palin like she is the God sent messenger here to fix everything wrong with the country. Its amazing how everyone else has decided on her behalf that she is now an evangelical christian. Funny, she actually has not come out publicly with her faith since she was asked to accept the nomination for VP.
My point? There seems to be a lot of hype, and lack of informed people willing to throw their vote to a candidate based purely on emotion. The freedom, and power of a democracy is only effective when you make an informed decision, and use your vote based on the facts. What will a candidate do when in office? How will they vote on any particular issue?
I asked someone the other day who they would vote for. The answer, "Oh for Obama, because I just hate all republicans" Great. I have no problem with someone voting for Obama, that is their right as an american. But surely there has to be a better, more informed reason than that?
So, know the facts.
For your convenience, here is a link to each candidates website. Check them out, get rid of the spin, and you decide."

http://www.barackobama.com/issues/
http://www.johnmccain.com/Informing/Issues/

Wedding Memories

2008-09-12T10:46:00.005-04:00

"and the two shall become one"

Pastor Tom

The girls

Galen Jr., Marci, Shelbie & Kale

Karen & Kale

Galen & Kale

Granny :)

Michele, Robyn & Craig

The Bridal Party

Sarah, Mandy, Me, Krista, & Michele

Dad & me

Mom & me

Michele & me

Mr. & Mrs. Stone

4 Years!

2008-09-11T21:15:00.004-04:00

Happy Anniversary Honey :) What a fun wedding day we had and the honeymoon in Hawaii was incredible. Man have we been busy since then, a new house and 2 kids later.....4 years flew by!

Bedtime Prayers

2008-09-06T20:48:00.005-04:00

Ryan has a bad habit of scratching his nose at bedtime. It's a comfort thing I'm sure. He's been scratching his nose for more than a year now, and at times it's very red and sore. I think I've tried everything to get him to stop. Mittens, tape, band aids, liquid band aid, talks, threats, & alternative "feelies". You name it, we've probably tried it! Nothing has worked, he says "it feel good". So, you may have noticed a red nose or band aids in pictures, this is why :(

I have prayed about it many times, but last week I started to consistently pray with Ryan at nap time and bedtime that Jesus would help him not scratch his nose. He's so cute and I know he's listening because the other day Ryan "put mama to sleep". He likes to pretend and when he put mama to sleep he tucked me in, brought me turtle and prayed that Jesus would help mama not scratch her nose! How precious is that? And the best part of this story is an answered prayer! Ryan hasn't scratched his nose since we started praying together. Praise God!

I've been holding off on Ryan's 2 year pictures because of this nose, that was literally bleeding at times. So, this Tuesday we're finally going for those pictures. It will be Ryan and Julia's first professional pictures together :)

One more cute bedtime prayer story. I also started asking Ryan who he would like to pray for each night. Usually it's a family member and we'll pray for that person. Sometimes all of them, but a few days ago I asked Ryan who he wanted to pray for. He responded, "garbage truck". He's so cute, loves the garbage truck. The nice guys always wave to him and smile. We prayed for the garbage truck and the workers. The last two nights it was tractors and choo-choo's. You just gotta love the mind of a little boy! We went to see the steam engine and tractor's at William's Grove last week, so I'm sure that has been on his mind.

New Job :)

2008-09-04T13:30:00.004-04:00

I forgot that I never posted about my new job! I accepted a job as an adjunct faculty for Harrisburg Area Community College. My job is to teach OB clinical to the nursing students. So, I work every Monday and Thursday evening during the college semester. I meet my group of students at the hospital (where I currently work) and I basically supervise and teach in the hospital. I also have to read and grade all of their assignments over the weekend. So far I love it! The stress level is completely different than a hospital nurse. I still work hard and barely sit down, but it's nice. The pay and hours are a blessing.

I was a little worried about finding a babysitter, but I was praying for a Messiah College Nursing Student. I found one! Messiah is about 5 minutes from my house and they have a list of students who are looking for various jobs. So, I emailed nearly 200 students and the only prospects were all nursing students! My sitter will come at 2 and Kale gets home at 4. Ryan should sleep the whole time and well Julia eats, sleeps and plays on the floor :) Gotta love those kids!

It's about time!

2008-08-27T20:10:00.004-04:00

Have you noticed my pretty blog design? Did you think that I was talented enough to do that myself?? No way! I'm totally clueless. I can post and add pictures. Someday I would like to figure out how to add a slide show, but for now...........that's it! I have to thank my buddy Diana for the pretty blog that you see! I met Diana in the 5th grade. She's one of the nicest and funniest people I know. She's super talented. So, check out her blogs to the right.

Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!

6 months

2008-08-16T11:11:00.005-04:00

Happy 1/2 Birthday Julia! It's hard to believe a 1/2 year went by already. Julia is rolling over, enjoys her exersaucer and bouncy seat. She can sit up with very little support and drink from a sippy cup. Still loves watching anything that Ryan does. I love her smiles, coos and giggles. She is just so sweet and pleasant and sleeping 10-12 hours a night! Am I spoiled or what?!?!

20 pounds 9 ounces and 25.5 inches

95th% for weight

50th% for height

Funny Story

2008-08-13T22:08:00.005-04:00

Last weekend when my sister was here to take care of me, she gave me a lottery ticket. I won a dollar! I tried to give it back to her, but she made me keep it. So, today I cashed it in. Here's the funny part. The nice lady behind the counter says, "Are you 18?". LOL, I simply said yes.

Here's the thing though. I don't know if I should be flattered that I looked 15 years younger or if I need a makeover!

2 weeks Post-Op

2008-08-13T18:39:00.004-04:00

I can't believe it's been 2 weeks! I almost forgot. Well, here are today's picture updates. I'm still a little sore, but feeling great. I'm still a little worried about bumps, but I can breathe!! I thank God for that every night as I peacefully fall asleep :)

No power!

2008-08-08T17:52:00.004-04:00

Ok, so most people would be a little upset if they lost power for 2 hours! Nope, not me. This is what I got for having no power! Kale was unable to do his usual building in the basement, so he took Ryan outside. I enjoyed 2 hours with Julia relaxing in bed and reading a book. Folded the clothes and put them away too. But the best part was when I told Kale the power was back on. He told me to come outside and see what he did.

Pretty rocks and landscaping along the side of the house. The craziest part is that Kale actually took all of the stones from a rocky riverbed up at his parents house. He transported them 3 hours to our house, cleaned them, and stored them for months. I love it!! Ryan enjoyed "helping" dada the whole time.

July Pics & Highlights

2008-08-06T20:45:00.010-04:00

Here are the July pictures! A few of my favorites and the snapfish link if you want to see them all!

http://www2.snapfish.com/thumbnailshare/AlbumID=232707868/a=39577534_39577534/t_=39577534

This one is for Aunt Michele!

my big girl

my sweet boy

Ryan loves to water the plants :)

what can i say?

priceless!

Nose: one week post-op

2008-08-06T17:45:00.004-04:00

I saw Freddy today. That's what I call my nose doc, actually it's Dr. Fred Fedock. The nose looks good and feels good. I can't remember a time in my life where I was able to breathe so good! It is very swollen and a little sore, but overall not too bad. I am a little nervous about bumps returning when the swelling goes down, but praying that it's all good. Here's a few self portraits:

Surprise :)

2008-08-05T18:50:00.004-04:00

Today my honey surprised me with a new rocker for the front porch. Yes, he did get it on sale and even used a coupon on it! But it's the one I wanted and it was worth the wait! I love it :)

Before and After and Before and After

2008-08-04T19:21:00.007-04:00

Here are a couple of the before and after pics! I apologize for the wait and layout! I have no clue what I'm doing here.

This pic on the left is the day before my first surgery.

And below is 2 weeks after the first surgery, looking pretty good!

Here on the left is a year and a half later, just days before my second surgery. Notice the bumps on the bridge of my nose. Also can't breathe on the right side very good at all.

And the last 2 pics here are the day of surgery pics. Big difference! The first one is the more recent and the last is from the first surgery.

The Story of the Nose

2008-08-04T09:17:00.005-04:00

It all goes back to 8th grade softball tryouts. I was having a catch with one of my best friends, Krista, when the coach called out. I looked away and before I knew it, the softball tipped off my mitt and hit my nose! Tears welled up, but I didn't cry because I really wanted to make the team. Well, I did make the team and went on to love softball, but I did break my nose. This was only the start.......

The next time I broke my nose was one night after youth group. I was at a friend's house. This time, Tommy decided to throw me into the pool. Of course I protested, kicking and screaming the whole way. I grabbed onto the fence around the pool and cut my finger! So, Tommy, seeing the blood put me down. I walked into the house, washed my finger off and suddenly felt sick! I passed out, flat on my face. I woke up to my brother's face, telling me that I broke my nose. I was like, "no, it's my finger". Someone else was putting a bandaid on my finger, another was trying to give me juice, and Tommy was apologizing profusely. I couldn't feel my face, but the nose was definitely broken, and I needed stitches on my finger! This time I had a consult with an ENT. One visit with that doc and I was never going back! Scared to death of any possible surgery!

The next time ........ My mom cut the tip of her finger while trimming the hedges. So, I had been changing her bandages for her. Well, one morning, my mom woke me up and told me to change the bandage because it got wet. I jumped out of bed, took one look and got sick! I passed out and broke my nose.......again. I cried the whole way to the hospital, not again!! This time, I also cut my nose and ended up with stitches and a scar!

The next time........oh yes, there is one more. This one is unofficial, but after 3 times, you kinda know the feeling! I was on a youth leader retreat. We were on a break and some of the guys were tossing a football in the parking lot. All I heard was "lookout", so I did. Ouch, of course it hit my nose!!!! Am I a target or what?

I must say though, it does run in the family. My mom, sister, and brother have all broken their noses at least once! So that's my story. Pictures to follow.

Surgery Update

2008-07-31T19:46:00.002-04:00

I don't think my surgery could have gone any better! I had the best anesthesiologist ever! The last thing I remembered was telling Kale to give me a kiss because I had 30 seconds left, then I was in the recovery room, pain free! My last surgery I remembered a lot and woke up a few times during the surgery.

This surgery was a revision of the last one because I had an obstruction on the right side making it very difficult to breathe, especially at night. Also to shave down the bumps left on the bridge of my nose from the last surgery also. So far everything looks good and I can breathe!!! I have no packing or splints this time, no bruising, and no pain chewing like the last time either.

The worst part this time was the ear cartilage they took for the graft in my nose, I know gross! I don't even like to think about it and my ear does hurt. But overall, it's not that bad. I had a follow-up appointment today and all looks well. I even took a shower after that, and had a great nap :)

Maybe tomorrow I will post my progression pics! They're kinda scary though, just warning ya!

Surgery

2008-07-30T20:51:00.002-04:00

My surgery went very well. Thanks to everyone who prayed! I'm hoping to give a better update tomorrow. Too many drugs today :)

Surgery

2008-07-29T21:54:00.002-04:00

Tomorrow I am going for my second nose surgery! My nose has a big history and someday I might tell the whole story and even post some progression pictures. For now, I ask for prayer. I'm scheduled for 9am. My mother in law is here to watch the kids tomorrow, Kale has off the next 3 days, and my mom and sister are coming Thursday night to help out too.

Things to pray for:
Dr. Fedok, good anesthesia, no complications, no nausea, little to no pain, able to chew food afterwards, able to breathe a little through my nose the first week following, and care of my children.
Thanks, I'll keep you posted :)

Bethany Beach Highlights

2008-07-23T16:44:00.027-04:00

Whew!! I'm finally done with the vacation pictures!! We had great weather and a great time at Bethany. We loved hanging out at the pool and beach. The trolley, boardwalk and food was great too. Thank you Grandma, Michele, John, Kyla, Craig & Jen for joining us. We love you!

Here are some highlight pics and the link to the rest, if you dare.........

http://www2.snapfish.com/thumbnailshare/AlbumID=232533745/a=39577534_39577534/t_=39577534

the fam

Julia & Kyla

Kyla

Julia

Ryan & Julia

Julia's first time at the beach

mama & Julia

precious

Julia's first pool experience

Ryan's swimming!

Aunt Jen & Uncle Craig

Family photo

Julia's first bathing suit

matching!

Aunt Michele, Uncle John & Kyla

daddy & the kids

Jen, Craig, Grandma & Ryan

June Pics!

2008-07-23T12:57:00.014-04:00

Here are some of my June favorites. Also, the snapfish link if you'd like to see them all!

http://www2.snapfish.com/thumbnailshare/AlbumID=232524434/a=39577534_39577534/t_=39577534

So sweet :)

Fell asleep during Elmo b/c he refused his nap!

my little doll baby

Julia's after bath fro

Ryan's first ipod

Hugs!

goofy boy

my celebrity

pretty girl

Julia, Ryan, and cousin Kyla in NY

Ryan refusing to sit in his booster seat!

Julia and Ryan in the Elmo bed

Ryan and his tractors

Julia is 5 months old!

2008-07-17T22:28:00.006-04:00

Yes, my little angel turned 5 months yesterday! It just goes by too fast. Julia enjoys watching her big brother and playing with her toys. She is such a happy baby, and sleeps 10-12 hours straight at night!! I weighed her at home today, and she is tipping the scales at 20 pounds! We met a one year old little girl at the park today that wasn't even 20 pounds yet! More to love, right?

Here's another picture of Julia in her bouncer. We put her in it yesterday for the first time and she loved it. Ryan ,on the other hand, was not too happy. He hasn't seen that toy in about a year, but somehow he remembered it and knew it was his. Oh yes, he cried and tried to climb in with Julia. After he got over it, Ryan showed Julia how to steer the wheel. Placing her little hands on the wheel for her. He really is so sweet. And don't worry, I'm still working on the vacation pictures.........I haven't forgotten :)

To the Beach!!

2008-07-04T20:05:00.003-04:00

I love vacation!! I can't wait for this one especially because my family is joining us. I rented a beach house in Bethany Beach, DE. So, my mom, sister, brother and their spouses, and my neice will be meeting us down there! I'm really looking forward to spending time with my fam and soaking up some son.

I also find vacation extremely stressful though. My mind has been working on overtime trying to remember everything that needs to come with us! Now, I know that almost everything that we're bringing can be bought down there, but somehow I just feel defeated if I forget anything.
So, I've been organizing and packing all week. Tomorrow we'll hit the road bright and early and pray that the kids sleep the whole way ;) yeah, right!

Today we celebrated the 4th of July down in Gettysburg. My dad is a reenacter, so he was fighting the civil war today. Ryan loved it! He skipped is nap to go. So, right before the big battle started he fell asleep on Kale's lap. The cannons fired, the guns started shooting, and Ryan woke up clapping!!! Love that kid!

Well, Happy 4th!! "See" you next week!

What If?

2008-06-27T15:25:00.004-04:00

So this is a first for me, but I’ve been tagged by Carolyn to answer some questions!! How fun!

1. If you could inherit a comfortable home in any city in the world that you could use but not sell, where would you want it to be? andwhere in Maui! We had the best honeymoon there. I would live there if it wasn't so expensive or far away from family.

2. If you could be instantly fluent in one other language that you currently do not read or speak, which would it be? Why? Italian because I am Italian and Granny spoke Italian. She actually had an Italian/American Bible.

3.If you were given an hour to spend an unlimited amount of money in any store in the world where would it be? I have to agree with Carolyn here, Homey D! Kale practically lives there anyway.

4. If you had to give your children to the care of someone famous, who would you pick? Does “give your child to the care of” mean babysit or literally GIVE? Let’s go with babysit. LOL, the first celeb I thought of was Will Smith too! Let me think...........I'd have to go with Nanny Jo, LOL!

5. If you could cast an actor now alive to play you in a new film, what kind of film would it be and who would you choose? J-lo and it would be a romance comedy of course.

6.If you could have an elegant dinner alone with anyone presently alive, whether you know them or not, who would you want it to be? My hubby b/c I haven't even been to the movies since before I had Ryan!

7.If you could resolve any single dispute, anywhere in the world what would you solve? War

8. If you were instantly able to play one musical instrument perfectly that you have never played before, what would it be? The Saxophone

Okay, I tag Marci to respond.

(And feel free to reply to this post with your own answers!)

Big Day for Julia :)

2008-06-26T21:27:00.005-04:00

Today Julia rolled over for the very first time! Yes, that's right 4 months and 10 days old. Ryan beat her by only 4 days. I have to admit that we all missed the very first roll though. As Kale napped on the couch and I ran to console Ryan (he closed his fingers in the closet door). I came back and my girl was on her belly! To my delight, she continued to do it over and over again.

Julia also decided to suck her thumb today as we enjoyed lunch at Subway and then again tonight at bedtime. She's so cute:)

Email?

2008-06-25T13:29:00.004-04:00

Ryan woke up very early this morning. I can't tell you how early, but around 6am I heard my little angel singing his heart out. Which means that he was probably up for a while by then. Not the norm for a boy who usually sleeps until 9ish. Anyway, I rolled over and went back to sleep! I guess Ryan never did because when I went in to get him at 8, he was wide awake, playing in his room.

So, by 11:30 Ryan was exhasuted and had a major "meltdown". I mean he was just screaming and crying and I couldn't do anything right! I finally calmed him down and asked him what he'd like to do today. Thinking that maybe I could convince him to take a nap if he knew that we would do something special when he woke up. This is what happened next:

Me: Ryan what do you want to do after your nap?
Ryan: email.
Me:What? email?
Ryan:email.
Me:email?are you sure? That's what you want to do?
Ryan: yah (with a nod)
Me: ok, we'll email Aunt Michele after your nap.
Ryan:(nods, and goes right into bed for a nap!)

Geez, if I had only known it would be that easy, I would have tried it 10 minutes sooner:)

Update:
After a 3 hour nap, Ryan did in fact email his Aunt Michele. He really enjoyed sitting in the chair and pushing the "buttons". We told Aunt Michele about the big loud garbage truck we saw that day and that Julia was sleeping. Ryan also enjoys pointing out which letters he knows on the keyboard. Such a smart little guy.

Should I be Worried?

2008-06-20T19:31:00.009-04:00

My son tells me that 'turtle hungry' and then proceeds to breastfeed the little guy. Should I be worried? I don't think so :)

He also gave turtle a "bath"! He's so sweet.

Julia is 4 months old!

2008-06-18T18:30:00.001-04:00

Well, it's hard to believe that Julia is already 4 months old! She is just the sweetest and happiest baby. Sleeping like an angel and smiling all the time. She just loves to watch her big brother:) I'm seeing more of myself in her lately too!

The healthy baby girl is still 100%, weighing in at 18.7 pounds!! and 24 inches. That's a pound and half bigger than Ryan was at this age and 2 inches shorter! I'm afraid that she's really starting to take after her mama!! She's also about a half pound heavier than her cousin Kyla(who is now about 8months)!

Here's a new picture of Julia smiling at her big brother:) Note, she barely fits in the bumbo:( Oh, and my kids now wear the same size diaper!! Did I mention that Ryan is 2!!

Blogger World, Here I Come!

2008-06-18T18:18:00.000-04:00

Well, a little encouragement from a friend and here I am! I am wife, daughter, sister, aunt, the mother of two precious children, a labor and delivery nurse, and a child of God. I love taking pictures and talking about my children, so I can promise you a lot of that. Here's the good thing, if you don't care, then you don't have to read :) I'm pretty clueless when it comes to computers, but I'm going to trial this out and see how it goes!

So, here's to blogging! Hope to "see" you around,

Robyn