We had our family's pictures taken a few weeks ago by Julie Law. One word .... AMAZING! She is such a gifted photographer which is only the beginning ... she is such a sweet and generous soul!
Check us out!
http://www.julielawphotographyblog.com/?p=347
And yes, I know, I need to learn how to insert a link properly! = P
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Bye Bye Tonsils
There are always those moments when you're like ... DANG IT! I REALLY WISH I HAD MY CAMERA! I had that moment majorly today. And since I didn't have my camera in hand, I can only hope that image will stay in my mind for a very long time.
Today was a big day for Joey .... for us all really. Joey had his tonsils and adenoids removed. All in all, the day has been surprisingly not as bad as I thought. Texas Children's Hospital is AMAZING. That place runs like a finely tuned engine. The only snafu was our expectations as far as wait time. We were told to be there at 9:15 for an 11:15 surgery. On our way down there, they called and let us know there was a cancellation so Joey's surgery was moved up about 45 minutes. YEA! We figured by 11:15 he'd be CRANKY having had nothing to drink or eat all morning so this was fantastic news. In the end, he didn't go back until 11:30 so we were mentally prepared for an earlier start. But, I'm getting ahead of myself ...
I'll start with Gavin. He was Mr. Roll with Flow today. We dropped him off at Aunt Joy's for a ride to school (THANK YOU JOY!!!!!) and Donna picked him up after school (THANK YOU DONNA!!!!!!) for some play time with Christopher and Ethan. When George picked him up I was told he didn't want to come home .... go figure! He had a tough time tonight since Joey was getting most of the immediate attention but I'm hopeful he understands deep down. Before dinner, Joey vomited and Gavin told me he said a prayer for Joey to get better. Such a sweet one he is.
And then there's Joey. Oh, how he amazes me. George and I talked about what we could do to prepare him but in the end decided he is too young realistically so .... we just took it minute by minute today. As I mentioned before, Texas Children's just took my breath away. If it's in our control, any future hospitalizations will be there. The registration area had lots of room for the kids to move around and Little Tikes cars so Joey was in Heaven riding in his car (and bumping into things, not people thankfully!) all around. They even let him peddle his way into the screening area and back out when they took all his vitals. He was so cooperative too. I'm ashamed to admit George and I were a little surprised by his willingness to do all the things he needed to do.
We were then moved into another waiting area. This is where we were ready to wait about half an hour but wound up waiting almost an hour and a half. Joey took it all in stride. He was easily entertained and so content considering he had gone four hours with nothing to drink or eat. By the time the doctors came out to discuss everything with us, he was done and his final and only answer was "NO!" to everything. LOL! All things considered, the two hours and fifteen minutes we spent waiting were surprisingly painless.
When they finally took Joey back for surgery, we weren't able to accompany him so there George and I stood at the double door entry of the surgery suite (or whatever it's called) for as long as the doors remained open. And as Joey peddled himself down the hall on 'his' John Deere tractor with three people from the hospital, he never looked back. I stood there unsure if I wanted to cry or smile or run down the hall to give him one more kiss. And that's the moment I would've given anything to have my camera. That moment completely epitomized my little boy's independence and bravery. Oh how I love that about him.
The rest of our hospital stay is a bit of a blur. There was a rough wake up followed by a lot of snoozing and forced sips of liquid for a couple of hours before we were cleared to go home. Since we've been home, Joey's had a bit of an upset tummy but what's upset him most I believe is that he is unable to eat some of his favorite things. He cried when he couldn't have any Cheetos, bless his heart.
Being at the hospital today served as a powerful reminder for me too. Imagining children and their families that endure frequent surgeries, procedures or treatments ... praising the good Lord for the health of my children will escalate to a whole new level after today. There was also a family near us in the post op recovery area (and I feel completely invasive having overheard this but they were right next to us) and neither the mom nor the dad could be there 24/7 with their baby ... work and other children at home required them to leave at a certain point. All I could think was how horrible to have leave your baby in the hospital to protect your job. Thanking God for the blessings of supportive family and friends will also rise to a new level after today. As will my gratitude for my husband's job and the flexibility it affords him and the freedom it affords me.
I completely did not intend to write a novel about our day. It's just that it was one of those days where you find yourself at each end of the spectrum and probably almost every point inbetween. Today I have been overwhelmed, humbled and blessed ... oh so very blessed.
Today was a big day for Joey .... for us all really. Joey had his tonsils and adenoids removed. All in all, the day has been surprisingly not as bad as I thought. Texas Children's Hospital is AMAZING. That place runs like a finely tuned engine. The only snafu was our expectations as far as wait time. We were told to be there at 9:15 for an 11:15 surgery. On our way down there, they called and let us know there was a cancellation so Joey's surgery was moved up about 45 minutes. YEA! We figured by 11:15 he'd be CRANKY having had nothing to drink or eat all morning so this was fantastic news. In the end, he didn't go back until 11:30 so we were mentally prepared for an earlier start. But, I'm getting ahead of myself ...
I'll start with Gavin. He was Mr. Roll with Flow today. We dropped him off at Aunt Joy's for a ride to school (THANK YOU JOY!!!!!) and Donna picked him up after school (THANK YOU DONNA!!!!!!) for some play time with Christopher and Ethan. When George picked him up I was told he didn't want to come home .... go figure! He had a tough time tonight since Joey was getting most of the immediate attention but I'm hopeful he understands deep down. Before dinner, Joey vomited and Gavin told me he said a prayer for Joey to get better. Such a sweet one he is.
And then there's Joey. Oh, how he amazes me. George and I talked about what we could do to prepare him but in the end decided he is too young realistically so .... we just took it minute by minute today. As I mentioned before, Texas Children's just took my breath away. If it's in our control, any future hospitalizations will be there. The registration area had lots of room for the kids to move around and Little Tikes cars so Joey was in Heaven riding in his car (and bumping into things, not people thankfully!) all around. They even let him peddle his way into the screening area and back out when they took all his vitals. He was so cooperative too. I'm ashamed to admit George and I were a little surprised by his willingness to do all the things he needed to do.
We were then moved into another waiting area. This is where we were ready to wait about half an hour but wound up waiting almost an hour and a half. Joey took it all in stride. He was easily entertained and so content considering he had gone four hours with nothing to drink or eat. By the time the doctors came out to discuss everything with us, he was done and his final and only answer was "NO!" to everything. LOL! All things considered, the two hours and fifteen minutes we spent waiting were surprisingly painless.
When they finally took Joey back for surgery, we weren't able to accompany him so there George and I stood at the double door entry of the surgery suite (or whatever it's called) for as long as the doors remained open. And as Joey peddled himself down the hall on 'his' John Deere tractor with three people from the hospital, he never looked back. I stood there unsure if I wanted to cry or smile or run down the hall to give him one more kiss. And that's the moment I would've given anything to have my camera. That moment completely epitomized my little boy's independence and bravery. Oh how I love that about him.
The rest of our hospital stay is a bit of a blur. There was a rough wake up followed by a lot of snoozing and forced sips of liquid for a couple of hours before we were cleared to go home. Since we've been home, Joey's had a bit of an upset tummy but what's upset him most I believe is that he is unable to eat some of his favorite things. He cried when he couldn't have any Cheetos, bless his heart.
Being at the hospital today served as a powerful reminder for me too. Imagining children and their families that endure frequent surgeries, procedures or treatments ... praising the good Lord for the health of my children will escalate to a whole new level after today. There was also a family near us in the post op recovery area (and I feel completely invasive having overheard this but they were right next to us) and neither the mom nor the dad could be there 24/7 with their baby ... work and other children at home required them to leave at a certain point. All I could think was how horrible to have leave your baby in the hospital to protect your job. Thanking God for the blessings of supportive family and friends will also rise to a new level after today. As will my gratitude for my husband's job and the flexibility it affords him and the freedom it affords me.
I completely did not intend to write a novel about our day. It's just that it was one of those days where you find yourself at each end of the spectrum and probably almost every point inbetween. Today I have been overwhelmed, humbled and blessed ... oh so very blessed.
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
It's Time to Celebrate!
The threat was there (even a few sprinkles were sent to rattle us) but the party went rain-free thank goodness! We had a wonderful afternoon of celebration with our fantastic family and friends as our guys got another year older. We are truly, truly blessed!
Happy Birthday Gavin!
Gavin is now four! I need to pinch myself .... can't believe my sweet boy is FOUR YEARS OLD! Per the birthday boy's request, back to Chuck E. Cheese we go ...
This picture makes me smile for two reasons. First of all, Gavin got this hat at school and would not take it off. He wore it until he went to bed. Secondly, Joey. He was feeling a little camera shy and thought he was safe but, alas, there he is ...
This picture makes me smile for two reasons. First of all, Gavin got this hat at school and would not take it off. He wore it until he went to bed. Secondly, Joey. He was feeling a little camera shy and thought he was safe but, alas, there he is ... Happy Halloween
At the pumpkin patch ...
Good times!
I do have to admit how LUCKY I was this Halloween. Last year, Gavin was Mater and Joey was Lightning McQueen. And this year, Gavin wanted to be Lightning McQueen and Joey wanted to be Mater. SWITCH! How easy was that! = ) I'm sure I'll pay for that gloating down the road ...
Happy Birthday Baby Boy!
Joey is three! Yea! We had a family night at Chuck E. Cheese to celebrate his birthday. It's funny how you can tell a three year old he can eat anywhere he wants on his birthday and it's Chuck E. Cheese. LOL!
Opening presents at home ... Joey got a Clickstart!
Flying high!
S'up? I'm three!
What Joey thinks of Chuck E. ....
Opening presents at home ... Joey got a Clickstart! 
Flying high!
S'up? I'm three!
What Joey thinks of Chuck E. ....Back to School
Where oh where did the summer go? Here are my 'little' guys on their first day back at school. Gavin is three (soon to be four) and Joey is two (soon to be three). They had a great first day ... they both enjoy school!
More Summer Fun
I can't believe it's 1.2.2010 and I'm playing catch up from the summer! We had a FUN summer! A little lowkey but we were busy bees just kickin' back and enjoying the break from school.
The boys attended two VBS's. Parkway Fellowship offered a wonderful evening option that we took advantage of (I already blogged about that) and we also attended Second Baptist's VBS. I saw 'we' because 'we' all attended. I volunteered to teach so all three of us had a wonderful week. The boys LOVED the experience, both really. Joey still watches the DVD from Parkway's VBS. Both he and Gavin are in it so I suppose that's why he can watch it over and over and over and over ... The boys also went to summer camp for a week at St. Peter's Church (this is the camp I got in line at 5 AM for!). It was from 9 to 1 so we all enjoyed that week! ; )
The boys attended two VBS's. Parkway Fellowship offered a wonderful evening option that we took advantage of (I already blogged about that) and we also attended Second Baptist's VBS. I saw 'we' because 'we' all attended. I volunteered to teach so all three of us had a wonderful week. The boys LOVED the experience, both really. Joey still watches the DVD from Parkway's VBS. Both he and Gavin are in it so I suppose that's why he can watch it over and over and over and over ... The boys also went to summer camp for a week at St. Peter's Church (this is the camp I got in line at 5 AM for!). It was from 9 to 1 so we all enjoyed that week! ; )
George and I were honored when Jennifer and Cameron invited Gavin to be the miniature groom at their wedding. The ceremony was absolutely gorgeous! Jennifer was a gorgeous bride!
Joey was in awe of the belly dancer!
Gavin escorted Ava, Cameron's niece, down the aisle
My handsome guys!
We went to the beach. A LOT! Day trips with our besties and overnight stays when Daddy could join us. We even met up with the Flemings ... the boys adore spending time with Kaylie and Emily! 
We had a ridiculous amount of fun when the Partlow's visited for a few days. We showed them the sights, well, the Aquarium anyway and did some swimming and alot of hanging out. The boys had a blast! As did I!
We wrapped up the summer with a family weekend at the Freeman's lakehouse in Sommerville. No pressure or anything Courtney and Kelly but we're really hoping this becomes an annual thing! = P
The kids were EXHAUSTED after a day on the lake
Sunday, November 8, 2009
Last Day of School - Catching Up From May!
Gavin and his buddy Matthew
It's funny how one little ol' day can create such a litany of emotions ... excitement, anticipation, dread (LOL!). Honestly though, I was genuinely excited about the last day of school. I was anticipating all the fun things we had to look forward to this summer. But I'll get to summer later ...
The boys both had classroom parties. Although Joey's was a little low-key ... Chick-fil-a brought in for everyone. I guess that is pretty exciting for a two year old! Gavin's class had a bug-themed party complete with a bug hunt outside and pizza. The kids loved it. Gavin was such a sweetheart when he offered his bug box to one of his classmate's that didn't have one. He has such a kind heart!
We were very sad to say goodbye to the majority of Gavin's classmates. Most will move on to the three-day option next year, while Gavin stays with the T/Th schedule. New friends to look forward to! We are also so very thankful for the boys' wonderful teachers ... Gavin's teachers Ms. Cynthia and Ms. Lisa (who thankfully will be Joey's teachers next year) and Joey's teachers Ms. Pam and Ms. Stacy. The boys' music teacher, Ms. Donna, is amazing as well. We feel so blessed we found Grace!
Lago Vista - Catch Up from May!
We took our first road trip in the minivan and headed to Lago Vista for a few days. We had a fantastic trip and got to spend a few days with the Siders-Gerardi family. We had such a relaxing, low key get-away ... imagine us lounging in the hammock!
It was great to see BJ and Stacy while we were there. Uncle BJ took some time to teach Gavin a necessary gesture ...
We squeezed in a few rounds of golf ...
Had some QT with our four-legged friends ...
It was great to see BJ and Stacy while we were there. Uncle BJ took some time to teach Gavin a necessary gesture ...
We squeezed in a few rounds of golf ...
Had some QT with our four-legged friends ...
If I'm not mistaken, this trip was the first time Gavin and Joey physically shared a bed. Ah, melt my heart ... nothing like seeing your babies sleeping side-by-side.
The only downside was Joey's decision to drink bubble juice on our last day there. Bless his heart. There was more vomiting than I care to remember, intermittently, throughout the day. A Mr. Gatti's pit stop on the way out of town hit the spot and restored the day to a good one ... love me some Mr. Gatti's!
Friday, October 30, 2009
WOW!
I can't believe I haven't touched our blog since June 25! Wow, four months and nada! We had a fantastic, busy summer and now our school year is moving right along. Joey is now three and Gavin will be four on Tuesday. FOUR! When did that happen?
Can't believe the holidays are right around the corner too. Yeah, I'll have plenty of time to play catch up ..... = )
While we keep busy, this is the kind of busy I'm talking about .... life is good!
Thursday, June 25, 2009
I Just Might Be Turning Over That New Leaf!
Today, I took the high road .... and it actually felt pretty good! Although I can't help but wonder if it would've felt better to take the low road ... if I didn't go too low that is! = )
I received a request via email and my immediate response was, "are you friggin' (but not friggin'!) kidding me?" Thankfully, I paused before responding .... I actually paused twice because my second response was still on the bee-atchy side!
Some people .... the more you give, the more they try to take.
I received a request via email and my immediate response was, "are you friggin' (but not friggin'!) kidding me?" Thankfully, I paused before responding .... I actually paused twice because my second response was still on the bee-atchy side!
Some people .... the more you give, the more they try to take.
Monday, June 22, 2009
FINALLY!!!!!!!!!!
I can see the light at the end of the tunnel! We are one week and two small issues away from closing on the sale of our house in Richmond. This just might really happen!!!!!!!
If you are reading this, please keep yours fingers crossed for us!
If you are reading this, please keep yours fingers crossed for us!
Happy Father's Day!
My husband is many things.
.... feel free to insert all sorts of sarcasm here!
Seriously though, he's all sorts of wonderful but I must admit he is most wonderful at being a daddy. Even before we had our boys, I was always impressed by George's interaction with children. He has always had a knack with them. I must admit though, I seriously had my doubts the night we brought Gavin home from the hosptial. George got schnockered, 'celebrating' he later said, leaving me feeling soberly alone in parenting this little human we were now responsible for. Full of terror I wondered what I got myself in to! Since then though, my husband has continued to amaze me by how hands-on of a daddy he is. He's never been shy about changing a diaper, giving a bath, or taking them to a birthday party. He is there for them. He is present.
We started celebrating him on Saturday. My playgroup has a standing 'mommy and me' gymnastics playdate and we scheduled a 'mommy and daddy and me' playdate / pizza party for Father's Day. The boys LOVED having Daddy there to run wild with. George had to work most of Father's Day so we were left with a little playtime when he got home and then we grilled dinner after the boys went to bed .... a huge ribeye, shrimp, lobster (a surprisingly good lobster since we'd never grilled one before!), and veggies ..... YUM! We capped off dinner with brownies and cobbler a la mode. A bit glutenous but oh, so good!
Honey, I know I don't tell you enough how much I appreciate all that you do but please know that I do appreciate you and the wonderful father, husband, and provider that you are.
Love You!
Joey on the rings
Don't worry Daddy, I got you!
Gavin mid-air 
.... feel free to insert all sorts of sarcasm here!
Seriously though, he's all sorts of wonderful but I must admit he is most wonderful at being a daddy. Even before we had our boys, I was always impressed by George's interaction with children. He has always had a knack with them. I must admit though, I seriously had my doubts the night we brought Gavin home from the hosptial. George got schnockered, 'celebrating' he later said, leaving me feeling soberly alone in parenting this little human we were now responsible for. Full of terror I wondered what I got myself in to! Since then though, my husband has continued to amaze me by how hands-on of a daddy he is. He's never been shy about changing a diaper, giving a bath, or taking them to a birthday party. He is there for them. He is present.
We started celebrating him on Saturday. My playgroup has a standing 'mommy and me' gymnastics playdate and we scheduled a 'mommy and daddy and me' playdate / pizza party for Father's Day. The boys LOVED having Daddy there to run wild with. George had to work most of Father's Day so we were left with a little playtime when he got home and then we grilled dinner after the boys went to bed .... a huge ribeye, shrimp, lobster (a surprisingly good lobster since we'd never grilled one before!), and veggies ..... YUM! We capped off dinner with brownies and cobbler a la mode. A bit glutenous but oh, so good!
Honey, I know I don't tell you enough how much I appreciate all that you do but please know that I do appreciate you and the wonderful father, husband, and provider that you are.
Love You!
George and the boys at gymnastics ....
the boys are totally NOT cooperating for the picture!
Joey on the rings
George showing Gavin how it's done
Don't worry Daddy, I got you!
Gavin mid-air Getting a little push from Daddy
round and ...
... round!
Joey doing a back flip (check out Joey's tan!)
round and ...
... round!
Joey doing a back flip (check out Joey's tan!)
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