I am so proud of my baby girl, my Em. She is starting kindergarten - I keep telling myself I need to hold her hand to the bus stop, watch her climb those stairs on that big, yellow bus and wave good-bye to her, happy that she is starting this new chapter. What I REALLY want to do, is not let go of her hand and keep her home with me, wave good-bye to that big, yellow bus together and run back home to play dolls, read stories and cuddle all day...just like we've done the last 2 years together. Can we still do that, would that be OK?
I haven't blogged in 2 years. But I wanted to today, to say how happy I am for my sweet, fun, cuddly little Emily...she is so excited. I AM excited for her, but I am sad that my baby girl is quickly growing up, just like her big sister is doing. Time isn't slowing down, it can't stop - it's going right before our eyes! I cherish each and every moment - every giggle, every boo-boo, every tickly belly laugh, every little voice talking back, every toy I step on, every moment. Every moment I hold tight in my heart.
Tuesday, August 26, 2014
Friday, September 7, 2012
What an emotional week
I have to admit that I am relieved this week is over. I'm looking forward to the weekend, wondering if Madelyn will sleep in Saturday and want to lay around in her PJ's watching cartoons in the morning. Seems like not long ago I did that when I was in elementary school.
Emily & I stayed busy while Madelyn was in school. I think she enjoyed the time we had together without big sister around. She missed her, I know - she asked a few times each day when Madelyn would be home. She was tired just like the rest of us this week, she asked two days if she could take a nap, to which I was happy to oblige. She loves her rests.
Madelyn had a great first week at school. She had just a little nervous hesitation that first day waiting for the bus, but she tried hard not to show it...she proudly stood in line and got on the bus, waving at me through the window - a moment I will have fresh in my heart forever!
I'm so proud of her - my shy little girl, who wants to be every one's friend but won't shout it to the world. She stands back and observes before she's comfortable joining the group. For a few days, a little girl at our bus stop (who is also in Madelyn's class) was crying and quite scared. Madelyn felt bad for her, she told me. Madelyn offered to sit with her on the bus and even had her arms around her back, I was beaming...my little girl, helping someone - truly, from her heart.
We tried hard not to overwhelm her with questions, we wanted to know everything she did, everything she heard and saw, what the cafeteria smelled like, who she sat with on the bus...she was clearly not ready to answer! But she opened up when I tucked her in to bed - another moment I'll keep close. PE was her favorite thing that first day, and she loved the bus.
The night before our big first day, Ben and I lay in bed tossing and turning. Crying and laughing...not able to settle and go to sleep. I decided to log on to Facebook on my phone to find a message about an unnamed classmate who's family suffered a tragic loss the previous day. I immediately felt my stomach turning. Later I found out it was a classmate who lost their son in an accident while their family was vacationing at a lake.
As I learned the details of the accident, my stomach only felt worse. All week I had a lump in my throat and I cried a lot this week. I am devastated. I only know this sweet little boy through the pictures his Dad posts on Facebook. But his eyes are so beautiful, and his smile is so sunny and contagious, I feel like I've known him forever. He is an angel, I've said it several times this week. The pain I feel for his parents, saying goodbye to their little boy...the pain for his big brother who lost a playmate, the pain for his baby sister who may never know him.
His family has requested that donations be made in his name to his elementary school where he just started kindergarten a week earlier. All donations are going to a playground fund...and I am filled with goosebumps to know that in just five short days, around $20,000 has been donated to lift up the life of this happy little guy. That is awesome to me.
www.nathanchrisbaker is the page they are putting together to tell us all of their little boy's life. There, donations can be made through Paypal - please consider checking it out and I guarantee you'll instantly feel little Nate watching over from above.
Nate's parents put him to rest Thursday, that day I heard how brave and courageously Justin spoke of his son and it gave me some comfort knowing that part of this tragedy is behind them. I pray for them, for the changes The Baker family will face in the future. I pray Justin, his wife and their two beautiful children will always feel Nate with them in their hearts. I will forever remember Nate's sweet face and will vow to love and treasure my children each and every day.
Emily & I stayed busy while Madelyn was in school. I think she enjoyed the time we had together without big sister around. She missed her, I know - she asked a few times each day when Madelyn would be home. She was tired just like the rest of us this week, she asked two days if she could take a nap, to which I was happy to oblige. She loves her rests.
Madelyn had a great first week at school. She had just a little nervous hesitation that first day waiting for the bus, but she tried hard not to show it...she proudly stood in line and got on the bus, waving at me through the window - a moment I will have fresh in my heart forever!
I'm so proud of her - my shy little girl, who wants to be every one's friend but won't shout it to the world. She stands back and observes before she's comfortable joining the group. For a few days, a little girl at our bus stop (who is also in Madelyn's class) was crying and quite scared. Madelyn felt bad for her, she told me. Madelyn offered to sit with her on the bus and even had her arms around her back, I was beaming...my little girl, helping someone - truly, from her heart.
We tried hard not to overwhelm her with questions, we wanted to know everything she did, everything she heard and saw, what the cafeteria smelled like, who she sat with on the bus...she was clearly not ready to answer! But she opened up when I tucked her in to bed - another moment I'll keep close. PE was her favorite thing that first day, and she loved the bus.
The night before our big first day, Ben and I lay in bed tossing and turning. Crying and laughing...not able to settle and go to sleep. I decided to log on to Facebook on my phone to find a message about an unnamed classmate who's family suffered a tragic loss the previous day. I immediately felt my stomach turning. Later I found out it was a classmate who lost their son in an accident while their family was vacationing at a lake.
As I learned the details of the accident, my stomach only felt worse. All week I had a lump in my throat and I cried a lot this week. I am devastated. I only know this sweet little boy through the pictures his Dad posts on Facebook. But his eyes are so beautiful, and his smile is so sunny and contagious, I feel like I've known him forever. He is an angel, I've said it several times this week. The pain I feel for his parents, saying goodbye to their little boy...the pain for his big brother who lost a playmate, the pain for his baby sister who may never know him.
His family has requested that donations be made in his name to his elementary school where he just started kindergarten a week earlier. All donations are going to a playground fund...and I am filled with goosebumps to know that in just five short days, around $20,000 has been donated to lift up the life of this happy little guy. That is awesome to me.
www.nathanchrisbaker is the page they are putting together to tell us all of their little boy's life. There, donations can be made through Paypal - please consider checking it out and I guarantee you'll instantly feel little Nate watching over from above.
Nate's parents put him to rest Thursday, that day I heard how brave and courageously Justin spoke of his son and it gave me some comfort knowing that part of this tragedy is behind them. I pray for them, for the changes The Baker family will face in the future. I pray Justin, his wife and their two beautiful children will always feel Nate with them in their hearts. I will forever remember Nate's sweet face and will vow to love and treasure my children each and every day.
Friday, August 31, 2012
Well, we managed to survive orientation at our new elementary school AND Emily's preschool. It was great going back to Chester Presbyterian Preschool - I get warm and fuzzy feelings as soon as I walk in the door, just like the day we walked through and toured it when Madelyn was only TWO and baby Emily was in her carrier, only a month old! The preschool really is like our second family, I missed everyone over the summer.
Emily will have Mrs.Marny & Mrs.Spencer for her second year of preschool, who we adore. They are both so sweet and so caring - the kids love them. Emily is excited to have a few of her friends from last year in her class again. I'll be the room mom again this year for Emily's class, keeps me occupied with things to take care of! Emily starts school the week after Madelyn, so she and I will have a week to ourselves - all kinds of trouble we can get into!
Madelyn's orientation was great. Her elementary school welcomed all of us new kindergarten parents with open arms and really made us feel like we'd been there for years. Madelyn's teacher is Mrs.Bowman - MELISSA Bowman, her husband's name is BEN !! They have a son who was born the day after Emily, same year! How funny is that! She is pregnant again, due any time now. We also met Mrs.Green who will be subbing for the weeks that Mrs.Bowman is taking care of her new baby.
The kids were able to get on a school bus and even went to the cafeteria to walk through the lunch line. BIG changes coming our way - whew -- I think I'm ready, of course I never am really...I'll find a million things I wish I said or did the day she gets on that big bus. I'm so very proud, but I wonder where the last five years have gone!
I'll have to post some pictures soon...it's been quite a while. Have a wonderful weekend everyone!
Emily will have Mrs.Marny & Mrs.Spencer for her second year of preschool, who we adore. They are both so sweet and so caring - the kids love them. Emily is excited to have a few of her friends from last year in her class again. I'll be the room mom again this year for Emily's class, keeps me occupied with things to take care of! Emily starts school the week after Madelyn, so she and I will have a week to ourselves - all kinds of trouble we can get into!
Madelyn's orientation was great. Her elementary school welcomed all of us new kindergarten parents with open arms and really made us feel like we'd been there for years. Madelyn's teacher is Mrs.Bowman - MELISSA Bowman, her husband's name is BEN !! They have a son who was born the day after Emily, same year! How funny is that! She is pregnant again, due any time now. We also met Mrs.Green who will be subbing for the weeks that Mrs.Bowman is taking care of her new baby.
The kids were able to get on a school bus and even went to the cafeteria to walk through the lunch line. BIG changes coming our way - whew -- I think I'm ready, of course I never am really...I'll find a million things I wish I said or did the day she gets on that big bus. I'm so very proud, but I wonder where the last five years have gone!
I'll have to post some pictures soon...it's been quite a while. Have a wonderful weekend everyone!
Monday, August 27, 2012
One week to go
Before Kindergarten starts! It's bittersweet. I am so excited for Madelyn, she CAN NOT wait - and that makes me so so happy.
I have been OK all summer, her excitement as driven me - it has calmed me and sort of pushed away the "no, not my baby" boohoos. Until last week.
A few nights ago, I lay in bed, restless - felt the tears starting to fill my eyes. I couldn't stop thinking of when we brought her home, sleepless nights, poopy diapers, sippy cups, first words, potty training, big girl beds, preschool, making little friends...ugh it was heart wrenching! And I let it rip - it all just flowed out all over. At 1am, I went through a box of tissues and tiptoed up to her room to sleep with her in her bed. It helped - and then I laid with her staring at her sleep and I cried more. HA Now I can laugh, if she woke up and saw me she would've screamed because I looked like a monster!
The next day I had the worst headache and my eyes were so puffy - coffee only made me jittery, didn't help the eyes! I felt groggy all day.
But I've settled since then. We have a busy week planned, end of summer playdates and looking forward to us spending some quality time together this weekend. Next Tuesday we'll get up and load her on that big yellow bus and she'll be off....but she'll be back. I don't know who will hug who bigger and harder when she runs off that bus!! I can't wait! I'll have my busy little bee with me to keep me grounded during the day, I love my Em and will treasure these few years of "our" time before we're sending her off to kindergarten too!
A few weeks ago, my Grandparents from Missouri visited. It was such a special visit, it was the first time they had met Emily. Madelyn was only 1 1/2 when they saw her last, so it was quite an exciting time for all of us. I'm so very thankful they are healthy enough to travel and came all the way to see us. We can't let the time pass next time, 4 years is way too long.
Our summer is winding down. This last week means the Chesterfield County Fair - our end of summer tradition. It started slow but sure did come to a quick halt at the end. I'm so very thankful for all the day trips and weekend getaways, our beach vacation, our family and our wonderful friends who helped make some treasured memories!
I have been OK all summer, her excitement as driven me - it has calmed me and sort of pushed away the "no, not my baby" boohoos. Until last week.
A few nights ago, I lay in bed, restless - felt the tears starting to fill my eyes. I couldn't stop thinking of when we brought her home, sleepless nights, poopy diapers, sippy cups, first words, potty training, big girl beds, preschool, making little friends...ugh it was heart wrenching! And I let it rip - it all just flowed out all over. At 1am, I went through a box of tissues and tiptoed up to her room to sleep with her in her bed. It helped - and then I laid with her staring at her sleep and I cried more. HA Now I can laugh, if she woke up and saw me she would've screamed because I looked like a monster!
The next day I had the worst headache and my eyes were so puffy - coffee only made me jittery, didn't help the eyes! I felt groggy all day.
But I've settled since then. We have a busy week planned, end of summer playdates and looking forward to us spending some quality time together this weekend. Next Tuesday we'll get up and load her on that big yellow bus and she'll be off....but she'll be back. I don't know who will hug who bigger and harder when she runs off that bus!! I can't wait! I'll have my busy little bee with me to keep me grounded during the day, I love my Em and will treasure these few years of "our" time before we're sending her off to kindergarten too!
A few weeks ago, my Grandparents from Missouri visited. It was such a special visit, it was the first time they had met Emily. Madelyn was only 1 1/2 when they saw her last, so it was quite an exciting time for all of us. I'm so very thankful they are healthy enough to travel and came all the way to see us. We can't let the time pass next time, 4 years is way too long.
Our summer is winding down. This last week means the Chesterfield County Fair - our end of summer tradition. It started slow but sure did come to a quick halt at the end. I'm so very thankful for all the day trips and weekend getaways, our beach vacation, our family and our wonderful friends who helped make some treasured memories!
Sunday, July 22, 2012
Home again!
We had a great time at the beach. The weather was great, the girls loved getting up early and playing on the beach ALLLL day. We captured sand crabs, built castles, dug forts in the sand, played with friends (little friends AND grown up friends) and enjoyed each day out of our regular routine.
It was nice catching up with friends from home who were there the same time - had a blast with The Harry crew. The kids had so much fun playing and running in the sand and splashing in the waves. The grown ups also had a fun night out for dinner and drinks, good time laughing and singing at karoke. We even got to go play with The Radfords one day at the pool.
It was a really nice time with family and friends. We had a litte time with Dad and my nephew Seth, and even had Liz and Mary there, too. It would've been fun if Uncle Sean were there, but since he pretty much lives at the beach in Florida, he didn't make it up.
Now back to our day to day operations, as the Jones Family Household Engineer, I'm ready to get us through the rest of the summer before school quickly sneaks up on us! Speaking of school...I have our back to school supply lists for Madelyn in kindergarten AND Emily at preschool, have lots to put together for the year ahead for both girls.
Hoping to get some time in this week to myself - organizing my crafty junk and sewing table. Ready to be creative again, it's been a while.
I'm thankful for the time we had to regroup and refocus. One of my very favorite things was watching my two little girls giggle and play on the beach, pretend they were mermaids, yelling at the waves because that made (the waves) bigger. They are so imaginative, so free-spirited and bring me happiness. I'll hold those memories forever, LOVE fills my heart.
It was nice catching up with friends from home who were there the same time - had a blast with The Harry crew. The kids had so much fun playing and running in the sand and splashing in the waves. The grown ups also had a fun night out for dinner and drinks, good time laughing and singing at karoke. We even got to go play with The Radfords one day at the pool.
It was a really nice time with family and friends. We had a litte time with Dad and my nephew Seth, and even had Liz and Mary there, too. It would've been fun if Uncle Sean were there, but since he pretty much lives at the beach in Florida, he didn't make it up.
Now back to our day to day operations, as the Jones Family Household Engineer, I'm ready to get us through the rest of the summer before school quickly sneaks up on us! Speaking of school...I have our back to school supply lists for Madelyn in kindergarten AND Emily at preschool, have lots to put together for the year ahead for both girls.
Hoping to get some time in this week to myself - organizing my crafty junk and sewing table. Ready to be creative again, it's been a while.
I'm thankful for the time we had to regroup and refocus. One of my very favorite things was watching my two little girls giggle and play on the beach, pretend they were mermaids, yelling at the waves because that made (the waves) bigger. They are so imaginative, so free-spirited and bring me happiness. I'll hold those memories forever, LOVE fills my heart.
Sunday, July 8, 2012
Hello, are you out there?
Does anyone still keep up with our long lost blog? We all know it's been a long time since I've posted a blog. Things have been fine for all of us ... our girls are growing like the weeds that are thriving in this 100+ heat wave, Ben and I are here - thankful those weeds are green but trying not to let them take over!! HA
No really - we're thankful for our health and family, thankful we're able to enjoy day trips and vacations, thankful for our friends and play dates. Things have been good - really good.
Although I'd be fibbing if I didn't say we've had a hectic sort of year, adjusting to some family changes, some "what-ifs" and unknowns that neither Ben or myself seem to take in a go get 'em sort of attitude.
I have said it before, and never stuck with it - I (we) have to make some changes. I get so caught up in finding all these things to better my day-to-day life, but never give myself time or energy to focus on it. I think I'm too hard on myself and don't allow myself time to think of... ME. We love our life, where we are and what wonderful blessings we have, but something is just missing...something little - something simple. Just a small tweak could mean a whole lot more happiness for me, which means for us all :)
We're leaving for the beach in a few days, a much needed vacation to re-group and think about what truly makes us happy, what that small tweak will be when we return home and hit it head on!
Feels good to post again, whew - big sigh!
No really - we're thankful for our health and family, thankful we're able to enjoy day trips and vacations, thankful for our friends and play dates. Things have been good - really good.
Although I'd be fibbing if I didn't say we've had a hectic sort of year, adjusting to some family changes, some "what-ifs" and unknowns that neither Ben or myself seem to take in a go get 'em sort of attitude.
I have said it before, and never stuck with it - I (we) have to make some changes. I get so caught up in finding all these things to better my day-to-day life, but never give myself time or energy to focus on it. I think I'm too hard on myself and don't allow myself time to think of... ME. We love our life, where we are and what wonderful blessings we have, but something is just missing...something little - something simple. Just a small tweak could mean a whole lot more happiness for me, which means for us all :)
We're leaving for the beach in a few days, a much needed vacation to re-group and think about what truly makes us happy, what that small tweak will be when we return home and hit it head on!
Feels good to post again, whew - big sigh!
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Just a minor setback...
Our house was on lock-down last week...we've all been sick. I have been sick with a cold for THREE weeks now! UGH! The girls have had stuffy OR runny noses, Madelyn has had a cough and even Ben stayed home last week when we both were hit with a 24hr bug. The aches, pains, fever, cough, sore throat...at least we were goin down together! :)
Back to the grind this week - back to school, back to playing, back to cooking & cleaning. By next week I'm going to have my menus planned out for the week ahead, it will help greatly with shopping trips and planning dinners. I've been struggling with that after the holidays.
Lots to start prepping for -- Bens Birthday, Valentines Day, Madelyn's Birthday...Em's in April -- it's all happening way too fast, I can't get it in my grasp!!
Back to the grind this week - back to school, back to playing, back to cooking & cleaning. By next week I'm going to have my menus planned out for the week ahead, it will help greatly with shopping trips and planning dinners. I've been struggling with that after the holidays.
Lots to start prepping for -- Bens Birthday, Valentines Day, Madelyn's Birthday...Em's in April -- it's all happening way too fast, I can't get it in my grasp!!
Friday, January 14, 2011
Happy Friday!!
Friday, ahhh, the weekend is upon us... Do you ever wake up to one of those days, the way it starts - you just know it's going to take you over? Well, mine started that way - but I'll be damned if I'm gonna let this day slam it's ugly door in my face!
It started with a certain drama queen screaming in her room at 7am, which woke up the little drama queen - but she woke up happy, she always does, arrgh ... So then it was a kicking and screaming fit on the floor that she didn't want to go to school - ok, keep calm, Mom - maybe I'm not awake yet, how did I get up these stairs without any coffee anyway??? Trying to take charge of the situation and get this queen ready for school was not working - so --- the worst possible thing in the world is about to happen to her - Toy.Story.Friends.Are.MINE The screaming stops and she's pleasantly eating breakfast....
Until...time for shoes and coat to get to preschool...tantrum #2 begins, but I'm determined and stand my ground...we finally make it to school...she has forgotten all about her Toy Story friends who are mine for the day and she's thrilled to see her teacher...and so am I! :)
Back at home, Em and I have laundry going, I just finished working out, gotta pay some bills, get lunch ready for the misfit when she arrives home and then (crossing fingers) it will be nap time...
Take that you Friday!!
It started with a certain drama queen screaming in her room at 7am, which woke up the little drama queen - but she woke up happy, she always does, arrgh ... So then it was a kicking and screaming fit on the floor that she didn't want to go to school - ok, keep calm, Mom - maybe I'm not awake yet, how did I get up these stairs without any coffee anyway??? Trying to take charge of the situation and get this queen ready for school was not working - so --- the worst possible thing in the world is about to happen to her - Toy.Story.Friends.Are.MINE The screaming stops and she's pleasantly eating breakfast....
Until...time for shoes and coat to get to preschool...tantrum #2 begins, but I'm determined and stand my ground...we finally make it to school...she has forgotten all about her Toy Story friends who are mine for the day and she's thrilled to see her teacher...and so am I! :)
Back at home, Em and I have laundry going, I just finished working out, gotta pay some bills, get lunch ready for the misfit when she arrives home and then (crossing fingers) it will be nap time...
Take that you Friday!!
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
Before I know it --
we're going to be celebrating a few certain little girlies birthdays...one who will be four and one who will be two! Sometimes I feel like the soon-to-be four year old is actually turning, hmm - maybe 13?? And the soon-to-be two year old is turning, well, TWO! (It's evident these days!)
I just can't believe that my babies are growing up - I find myself having real life conversations with Madelyn sometimes. It wasn't that long ago that little bug was cozy in the bassinet next to our bed. Coming home from preschool today we discussed why the electricity went out the night before - which involved the following:
The scary thing with her - she actually gets it, she's a gem, she's so smart and blows us and so many away. She loves all her little friends, she loves school - loves learning new things, loves pretending and dressing up. We enjoy such fun things these days - I can't imagine our days any different!
And Emily. She slept in that very same bassinet, wrapped up nice & warm - like a squeaky little burrito. Now she's going to be two. She certainly has the attitude of a two year old! She says "no" in the cutest, most innocent way - but she means it - boy does she mean it! And the minute she doesn't get her way, find the nearest earplugs and prepare to hear an atomic bomb! She is so fun, she's a free spirit - she's a little dare-devil and she's adventurous, she learns alot from her big sister. Who she ADORES. I can't imagine one without the other! She loves music, she loves to dance - bopping her head up and down, and sometimes if the mood is just right - she'll put her head and hands on the floor and turn in circles. She loves to serve tea and coffee "mo tea?" she says to us. She has a favorite little kitty, who she named "mama" - and a favorite little baby, who she also named "mama" (original, isn't it!?) She gives herself curls by twirling her hair and has a delicious little thumb that helps her get to sleep at night!
These birthday plans - hope to get them done, March 2nd and April 6th will be here before I know it!
I just can't believe that my babies are growing up - I find myself having real life conversations with Madelyn sometimes. It wasn't that long ago that little bug was cozy in the bassinet next to our bed. Coming home from preschool today we discussed why the electricity went out the night before - which involved the following:
electricity is in the power-lines, which are held up by the poles, and maybe there was a fender bender on the icy roads, or maybe a tree fell, and she is really concerned that someday WE might actually cause the power to go out if we had an accident.
The scary thing with her - she actually gets it, she's a gem, she's so smart and blows us and so many away. She loves all her little friends, she loves school - loves learning new things, loves pretending and dressing up. We enjoy such fun things these days - I can't imagine our days any different!
And Emily. She slept in that very same bassinet, wrapped up nice & warm - like a squeaky little burrito. Now she's going to be two. She certainly has the attitude of a two year old! She says "no" in the cutest, most innocent way - but she means it - boy does she mean it! And the minute she doesn't get her way, find the nearest earplugs and prepare to hear an atomic bomb! She is so fun, she's a free spirit - she's a little dare-devil and she's adventurous, she learns alot from her big sister. Who she ADORES. I can't imagine one without the other! She loves music, she loves to dance - bopping her head up and down, and sometimes if the mood is just right - she'll put her head and hands on the floor and turn in circles. She loves to serve tea and coffee "mo tea?" she says to us. She has a favorite little kitty, who she named "mama" - and a favorite little baby, who she also named "mama" (original, isn't it!?) She gives herself curls by twirling her hair and has a delicious little thumb that helps her get to sleep at night!
These birthday plans - hope to get them done, March 2nd and April 6th will be here before I know it!
Sunday, January 9, 2011
Happy New Year!
Yes, yes, you are seeing it clearly - this is a new post on The Jones Family blog! I didn't keep up much in 2010, I'll scratch that and start fresh this year...
When I think of the past year - I think about the major events that happened and where we are now, starting another new year. I think of how, at the time, some those events seemed never-ending and they were (what I thought) some of the worst days ever. Now looking back - I am thankful that everything fell into place the way it was meant to. I am thankful that the few months I felt like a single mom, Ben DID in fact come home safely and wasn't far away somewhere faced with danger and fighting. I am thankful that after all the headache with selling and buying a home, we are happy and living more comfortable than we ever thought in our new home. I am thankful that our children wake up each morning healthy and excited to find out what the day is going to bring. I am thankful for our loving, supportive family and awesome friends that we couldn't live without!
New Years Eve we stayed in, a quiet night with the girls. They were in bed like normal - maybe this next one we'll see if they can stay up late??? Ben and I watched a movie and flipped on the crazy count-down with about 10 minutes to go. I always get that weird "lump in my throat" feeling, like I have so much I want to say and so little time to say it...and then it's over, the ball is down and everyone kisses - then we went to bed! HAHA
No real resolutions, just things that are important to think of every day, not just at New Years. I AM excited to say that I can cross off one of my goals from last year...but continue to "maintain" - my goal of getting back in shape for 2010 resulted in a 32 lb weight loss by the end of the summerl! WOOHOO!! I'm really not comfortable having attention on myself, so it's hard for me to share this news, but I feel great - physically, emotionally - all around :)
We're excited for this year, Madelyn turns FOUR, Emily turns TWO!!?? Gonna finally get some real vacation time in, Emily will start preschool in the fall (perhaps!). I'd like to get my creative juices flowing and start some personal projects - photos, sewing, decorating, baking, a little of everything :)
To all of our family and friends that follow us on our blog...Happy New Year! May this year bring you all the health and laughs and love that you all deserve! I promise you'll have more to read this year while you 'keep up with The Joneses' :)
When I think of the past year - I think about the major events that happened and where we are now, starting another new year. I think of how, at the time, some those events seemed never-ending and they were (what I thought) some of the worst days ever. Now looking back - I am thankful that everything fell into place the way it was meant to. I am thankful that the few months I felt like a single mom, Ben DID in fact come home safely and wasn't far away somewhere faced with danger and fighting. I am thankful that after all the headache with selling and buying a home, we are happy and living more comfortable than we ever thought in our new home. I am thankful that our children wake up each morning healthy and excited to find out what the day is going to bring. I am thankful for our loving, supportive family and awesome friends that we couldn't live without!
New Years Eve we stayed in, a quiet night with the girls. They were in bed like normal - maybe this next one we'll see if they can stay up late??? Ben and I watched a movie and flipped on the crazy count-down with about 10 minutes to go. I always get that weird "lump in my throat" feeling, like I have so much I want to say and so little time to say it...and then it's over, the ball is down and everyone kisses - then we went to bed! HAHA
No real resolutions, just things that are important to think of every day, not just at New Years. I AM excited to say that I can cross off one of my goals from last year...but continue to "maintain" - my goal of getting back in shape for 2010 resulted in a 32 lb weight loss by the end of the summerl! WOOHOO!! I'm really not comfortable having attention on myself, so it's hard for me to share this news, but I feel great - physically, emotionally - all around :)
We're excited for this year, Madelyn turns FOUR, Emily turns TWO!!?? Gonna finally get some real vacation time in, Emily will start preschool in the fall (perhaps!). I'd like to get my creative juices flowing and start some personal projects - photos, sewing, decorating, baking, a little of everything :)
To all of our family and friends that follow us on our blog...Happy New Year! May this year bring you all the health and laughs and love that you all deserve! I promise you'll have more to read this year while you 'keep up with The Joneses' :)
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
I'm going to post again...promise!
We're all still here! Just busy busy....snow has been and snow is coming....we'll be snuggled up the next few days....I am going to sit and post an update very soon, PROMISE!!
Thursday, October 21, 2010
ANOTHER picture catch up...
Since it's been a month since I've really sat down to blog and post pictures, here are some from August, September and October...whew!
First up is a weekend trip to the lake - great weather and the girls had a blast!
First up is a weekend trip to the lake - great weather and the girls had a blast!
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| A few silly sister pics above |
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| The Whittaker kids - love 'em! |
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| Chesterfield County Fair...and a very blue mouth! |
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| Big sister helping little sister |
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| Dancing with the beautiful ladies of the Fest Hause :) |
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| Pals at Bush Gardens |
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| First day of preschool - year TWO!! |
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| Apple picking at Carter Mountain Orchard - FUN!!! |
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
Excuse the delay...
I've been in a fog lately, not really feeling motivated and feeling a little drab. I'm ready for a project! So I started with the blog, that's a safe start!
Just a quick update that we're all here and everyone is good...I'm going to snap out of this dumpy feeling and start fresh...
We're heading out of town this weekend, a much needed weekend getaway down to South Carolina to visit Amanda. I'm really excited to see her, and so are the girls. I'll update with some pics and details when we return :)
Just a quick update that we're all here and everyone is good...I'm going to snap out of this dumpy feeling and start fresh...
We're heading out of town this weekend, a much needed weekend getaway down to South Carolina to visit Amanda. I'm really excited to see her, and so are the girls. I'll update with some pics and details when we return :)
Thursday, September 23, 2010
Falling out of summer
We were teasted a little the past few weeks with some nice cool weather - now this week we're setting record highs!? Oh Sweet Virginia, you never surprise us!
Our summer quickly ended, we stayed busy throughout - but not with anything in particular...packing, moving, unpacking, playtime with our little friends and lots of family time with the four of us and day trips around town.
We 'officially' ended our summer at the Chesterfield County Fair...and it has become a favorite thing for us to do together. The night we went it was cool, there was a rainbow overhead as we arrived and the smell of anything and everything fried was around us! We enjoyed candy apples, cotton candy, lemonade - it was great. Emily loves to see the animals and was pretty upset that she couldn't get on all the rides with her big sister.
I looked back at the pictures I took and realized how fast our family is growing...not by numbers - sit down now! But our little baby girls are growing into little young girls, who are their own little selves, they like different things, and they like some of the same things too, they dance and sing and play together (and torture each other as well!) We have a toddler and a preschooler, it just doesn't seem right! So many days I still feel like we're the "young" Ben & Melissa at VCU, hanging out late and sleeping in...but we have the wrinkles and gray hair to prove that we certainly are not that anymore! It's great, and I am so thankful each and every day for the family we have become.
We had a weekend visit from our friends The Whittakers from Knoxville - it was so great to see them and our kids got along so well. We were happy to have them and we're really looking forward to going their way sometime soon.
Preschool started up for Madelyn last week, she was so ready on that first day that we would've thought she was going all summer long! I'm so excited for her that she loves it, she loves to learn and she wants to know 'why and how' for anything that grabs her curiosity. Emily is so fun, she loves music and loves to dance. She loves books now and will back right up to any lap that is free to hear a story.
Hope to get back into this blogging thing - I just haven't taken the time to sit and put myself into it lately. Lots to share though, and lots of pictures....
Our summer quickly ended, we stayed busy throughout - but not with anything in particular...packing, moving, unpacking, playtime with our little friends and lots of family time with the four of us and day trips around town.
We 'officially' ended our summer at the Chesterfield County Fair...and it has become a favorite thing for us to do together. The night we went it was cool, there was a rainbow overhead as we arrived and the smell of anything and everything fried was around us! We enjoyed candy apples, cotton candy, lemonade - it was great. Emily loves to see the animals and was pretty upset that she couldn't get on all the rides with her big sister.
I looked back at the pictures I took and realized how fast our family is growing...not by numbers - sit down now! But our little baby girls are growing into little young girls, who are their own little selves, they like different things, and they like some of the same things too, they dance and sing and play together (and torture each other as well!) We have a toddler and a preschooler, it just doesn't seem right! So many days I still feel like we're the "young" Ben & Melissa at VCU, hanging out late and sleeping in...but we have the wrinkles and gray hair to prove that we certainly are not that anymore! It's great, and I am so thankful each and every day for the family we have become.
We had a weekend visit from our friends The Whittakers from Knoxville - it was so great to see them and our kids got along so well. We were happy to have them and we're really looking forward to going their way sometime soon.
Preschool started up for Madelyn last week, she was so ready on that first day that we would've thought she was going all summer long! I'm so excited for her that she loves it, she loves to learn and she wants to know 'why and how' for anything that grabs her curiosity. Emily is so fun, she loves music and loves to dance. She loves books now and will back right up to any lap that is free to hear a story.
Hope to get back into this blogging thing - I just haven't taken the time to sit and put myself into it lately. Lots to share though, and lots of pictures....
Thursday, August 5, 2010
Picture catch up
Here's our last month or so summed up in a few pictures -- no particular order, just random fun times :) Obviously I didn't have my camera for all of our outings, just a few of the special ones.
We're off to the lake this evening for a visit with Liz and Mary who we haven't seen in a month or so, whew - we try really hard to spend time with everyone. Next weekend trip will be to South Carolina to see Amanda. It's been a busy busy summer, hard to believe it's almost over!
We're off to the lake this evening for a visit with Liz and Mary who we haven't seen in a month or so, whew - we try really hard to spend time with everyone. Next weekend trip will be to South Carolina to see Amanda. It's been a busy busy summer, hard to believe it's almost over!
Sunday, August 1, 2010
sum-sum-summertime
We survived another round of sweltering heat these past few weeks...this summer has taken over the record books with it's 100+ degree weather - we're already looking forward to fall and counting down the days!
Since I haven't posted in a while, I don't want to write everything we've been doing the last few weeks...so I'll sum it up with a quick recap and some pictures -
- visit up to Stafford for Amanda Gayler's babyshower - AWESOME to see everyone there - and stayed at my Dad's house - Madelyn loved her Tinker Bell bed her Grandpa made for her and Uncle Sean got her to sleep with his best-ever back tickling -
- a visit from (Auntie) Amanda - the girls were so surprised to see her and loved every minute - playing dress up, cashier, coloring Woody & Buzz -
- a day at Mimi and Grandpa's house - swimming and splashing with Auntie Amanda & Auntie Haylie - laughing with the crazy Carl, watching Nemo, the girls love their Mimi & Grandpa -
- visit from Kelli & Brylee who were here from New York - sooo good to catch up with my sweet friend, who've I've known for...gosh...18 years!!??? Madelyn & Brylee loved playing dress up -
- play day with Meghan, Amelia & Henry - really need to spend more time with them, Amelia & Madelyn are about the same age, and Henry & Emily are almost the same aga also -
- a weekend with nowhere to be and it was just the four of us - aaahhhh, refreshing!! :)
- quiet night Ben & I spent on the deck talking ALL night, before we knew it we went through an entire bottle of rum!! HAHA The next day morning wasn't as fun though - a quarter pounder took care of that!
- a trip up to Stafford for lunch with my Dad for his birthday and to welcome my Mom home from her trip out west - quick trip up but the girls loved playing with Spooky and their kitchen at Nana's house -
- stomach bug hits us...Madelyn has it full swing - tried to venture out for some fun with friends at the duck race on Browns Island, she just wasn't herself...hoping it's over soon and she's back to eating soon -
This week coming up we'll try to make up a few dates we missed last week since Madelyn was sick - we owe a visit to Amber's house to meet her new baby girl, Avabel - a play date with the Harry crew - a few others we've been trying to set up too - all this before we head down to Liz & Mary's house at Lake Gastan Thursday evening -- whew :) It's like we're busy, but not really busy - busy just 'playing' I guess!
I'll post pictures soon...
Since I haven't posted in a while, I don't want to write everything we've been doing the last few weeks...so I'll sum it up with a quick recap and some pictures -
- visit up to Stafford for Amanda Gayler's babyshower - AWESOME to see everyone there - and stayed at my Dad's house - Madelyn loved her Tinker Bell bed her Grandpa made for her and Uncle Sean got her to sleep with his best-ever back tickling -
- a visit from (Auntie) Amanda - the girls were so surprised to see her and loved every minute - playing dress up, cashier, coloring Woody & Buzz -
- a day at Mimi and Grandpa's house - swimming and splashing with Auntie Amanda & Auntie Haylie - laughing with the crazy Carl, watching Nemo, the girls love their Mimi & Grandpa -
- visit from Kelli & Brylee who were here from New York - sooo good to catch up with my sweet friend, who've I've known for...gosh...18 years!!??? Madelyn & Brylee loved playing dress up -
- play day with Meghan, Amelia & Henry - really need to spend more time with them, Amelia & Madelyn are about the same age, and Henry & Emily are almost the same aga also -
- a weekend with nowhere to be and it was just the four of us - aaahhhh, refreshing!! :)
- quiet night Ben & I spent on the deck talking ALL night, before we knew it we went through an entire bottle of rum!! HAHA The next day morning wasn't as fun though - a quarter pounder took care of that!
- a trip up to Stafford for lunch with my Dad for his birthday and to welcome my Mom home from her trip out west - quick trip up but the girls loved playing with Spooky and their kitchen at Nana's house -
- stomach bug hits us...Madelyn has it full swing - tried to venture out for some fun with friends at the duck race on Browns Island, she just wasn't herself...hoping it's over soon and she's back to eating soon -
This week coming up we'll try to make up a few dates we missed last week since Madelyn was sick - we owe a visit to Amber's house to meet her new baby girl, Avabel - a play date with the Harry crew - a few others we've been trying to set up too - all this before we head down to Liz & Mary's house at Lake Gastan Thursday evening -- whew :) It's like we're busy, but not really busy - busy just 'playing' I guess!
I'll post pictures soon...
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
HOT July 4th
We decided to stay in for America's Birthday this year. I think maybe next year, or even the year after - we'll venture out for the girls to see and hear the fireworks. Late nights are a very rare thing here, maybe a few times a year...sitting outside in a huge crowd until 10 at night in the HOT, humid weather with two tired, sweaty children doesn't really sound appealing to us quite yet. I have fond memories as a child of all the neighbors meeting up in the cul-de-sac to share all of the fireworks we all had. It was always something I looked forward to, so I know when our girls are a little older, we'll certainly enjoy our July 4th holiday just the same.
We had friends over on Saturday for a cookout - great to see everyone and let all the kiddos run and play. And my Mom was in town for the weekend to help me with Madelyn's curtains and get one last quick visit in before she heads out to the midwest to visit her family for a few weeks.
We had friends over on Saturday for a cookout - great to see everyone and let all the kiddos run and play. And my Mom was in town for the weekend to help me with Madelyn's curtains and get one last quick visit in before she heads out to the midwest to visit her family for a few weeks.I finally pulled out my camera after moving in and got some cute pictures of the girls outside doing our "poppers" and having fun in our new big yard. Emily officially started walking a few days ago, even barefoot in the grass - funny to see her determined expressions!
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