My Three Loves

Febraury

2010-02-28T19:06:00.000-05:00

February was full of more birthdays and LOTS of snow!! Julian turned 2! WOW!! He is talking so much and doing everything his big brother and sister are doing. All of the kids enjoyed the snow....but 6 days stuck inside with them was enough for me!! Unfortunately we used all of our snow days so we owe 2 back on Spring break :(

Julian showing he's "2 old years" as he says it

January

2010-01-31T19:01:00.001-05:00

January was a busy month full of birthdays and parties. Taina turned 10, we went to 5 different friend's parties and we celebrated Grandma's 90th birthday a few days early. It was great to see all of the cousins and their children and Grandma get to celebrate with everyone who loves her!!!

Stinky

2009-12-28T19:09:00.002-05:00

My conversation with Julian (22 months) tonight

Me: Julian, your stinky...come on and let me change your diaper.

Julian: NO, cologne, no diapie. (and he ran and pointed to the cologne I have in my room for he and Manny)

Julian has learned at a young age how to "look" and smell good. Every morning he has me "do" his hair and wants a squirt of cologne before we leave.

Nap

2009-12-28T15:18:00.002-05:00

Julian has not wanted to take naps for me since he climbed out of his crib and we turned it into a bed. When it comes time for a nap, and he even tells me he's tired, I try to take him to bed and he climbs out. Today he continued to climb out so I left him out and we went downstairs to play. He took his blankie, sat on his 4 wheeler, and fell asleep. When I tried moving him to his bed he woke up and had a fit!! I should have just left him on his 4 wheeler. :)

Christmas Evening

2009-12-25T21:13:00.000-05:00

So I was pretty much done taking pictures at this point...we went to my grandmother's for dessert and presents. The kids slept the way there and got a burst of energy when we arrived. There were so many of us (30 maybe??) that it was too hectic to try and help Julian open his gifts and watch the other 2 open theirs and try to take pictures that I gave up. The few I took were after gifts were all said and done.

Grandma (will be 90 in February)

Pop and Julian (J loves his grandpas!!)

Mom

Madeline was not a happy camper..she was so tired at this point

Christmas Afternoon

2009-12-25T18:00:00.003-05:00

We spent Christmas afternoon with Manny's dad (here visiting from Puerto Rico),mom and sister, hubby and kids. Our kids had a great time playing with their cousins and my sister in law cooked a delicious meal!!

Julian couldn't get enough of his Grandpa

cousins

Big and Little

Niko

Grandma Lily and boys

Jay Jay and Grandpa

this cake is yummy!!

Santa

2009-12-25T09:22:00.001-05:00

Santa came to our house, right after little Manny and I made cookies for him at 9:30 last night. :) The kids loved their gifts and there is another yet to come. We, along with my grandmother, parents and aunts and uncles who contributed, are getting the kids a swing set/playground set once the weather gets nicer. They have so much to begin with and get so many gifts from the huge family we have, that I decided this year to ask for everyone to contribute to the play set instead of trying to come up with enough ideas. Worked perfectly!!

Julian on Manny's new big wheels

J's new 4 wheeler

Taina so excited to get her keyboard

Manny LOVES helicopters

Manny "helping" but really checking out what new toy J got that he wants to play with

Took him a while to open his gifts...he was loving his 4 wheeler

Daddy playing with Taina

J standing on Manny's big wheel to play Taina's keyboard

his smile after I caught him red handed

I LOVE this smile Julian has!!

Christmas Eve

2009-12-24T22:16:00.003-05:00

We've always spent Christmas Eve for as long as I can remember, with Grandma Vogel and Aunt Judy and Uncle Chip. The tradition continues, except now we go out for dinner then back to mom's house for dessert and presents. I opted out of bringing the boys to dinner again this year...maybe next year they will behave enough to join us.

Jen, Mom and Jenn

Jenn and Chris

Julian and Great Grandma

Julian and Pop

Julian and his favorite smile

boys playing the piano

big progress

2009-12-19T09:55:00.004-05:00

The first few nights of putting Manny and Julian in bed at the same time was torture for me..not them. They loved playing and running around and climbing into each others beds...it seriously took 45 min to and hour and a half for them to go to sleep and lots of me putting them back in their beds and tucking them in with strict warnings to stay in bed (they don't listen to mommy). Finally Thursday night I decided to put Julian in first (30 min before Manny). It worked perfectly. Julian only cried for a few minutes on and off and then was sound asleep. I did the same thing the last nights and it works. I think I will stick to this rather than deal with them being crazy for so long! :)

Other big news is that Julian is obsessed with using the potty and he constantly wants to sit on the potty and he does use it:) He's only 22 months and loves doing what his big brother does. If Manny says he has to go potty...all of a sudden Julian does too...or atleast he sits there.

Manny complained this am of his ear hurting so after school and work today I took him to the Dr. After an hour of waiting (y patience were gone at that point and to think I left work early to sit around there) I finally saw another Dr b/c the kid's Dr was way behind. Manny has an ear infection and touch of bronchitis. I see a pattern here. The Monday before Thanksgiving he had pneumonia. Now, the Monday before Christmas he has bronchitis!!

And to top the ever so stressful evening off Taina threw up (in the toilet thank goodness) and Manny did too....in his bed while he was sleeping. Let's just say that was NOT pleasant to clean up at all!!!!!

Here's a picture of waiting in the car with the boys to go back into the Dr's today...we waited some of the hour in the car...easier to control them. NO, I WASN'T driving anywhere with Julian in the front seat. He was playing and wanted the seat belt on. He thinks he's bigger than what he really is :)

Fun times

2009-12-13T20:14:00.003-05:00

This little cherub is officially a big boy. Tonight at bed time I tucked he and Manny in and no sooner get out the door and Manny is yelling that Julian is climbing out of the crib. I go in and sure enough he's sitting on the railing like he's riding a horse. I turn the crib around and put the high backboard out front, thinking that will keep him in, silly me. I again get to the end of the hallway and Manny is screaming that Julian is up on the highest part climbing out. I go and and put him back in his crib, he jumps up, throws his leg over and sits up top, smiling and laughing. Now I know I can't leave him in there because he'll fall out and get hurt, so I find the allen key and take off the front of the crib, turning it into a toddler bed. I put up the guard rail and know in my heart it's going to be a long night. Julian got out of his bed more times than I want to remember, running around the room, climbing in bed with Manny. It was like a party was going on in there. I gave up putting him back in his bed. Daddy went in, put both of them in their beds, sternly told them to stay in their beds. I actually have no clue whether they listened...I've had a long day so I escaped downstairs to the computer for some me time. We'll see what the next few nights bring :)

Our first snow of the season

2009-12-07T21:57:00.003-05:00

Saturday we were stuck in the house with the snow....got the kids all dressed and headed outside. At first Julian wasn't sure about the snow, especially since it was still snowing and quite windy. The snow was wet and packable. The kids made a snowman, caterpillar and had a great time having a snow ball fight.

Thanksgiving

2009-12-07T21:51:00.002-05:00

So many things to be thankful for...my hubby and children, family, friends....had a nice day with the family!!

Caitlin and Jen

Jen and Manny

Madeline :)

trying to get a shot of the 3 of them...impossible

my boys..my life

Misc pics

2009-12-07T21:49:00.003-05:00

Never a dull moment

2009-11-23T18:07:00.002-05:00

Friday Manny came home from school unusually quiet and not argumentative.....first sign that he wasn't feeling well. He complained of being cold and was sneezing nonstop. I took his temp (100) and gave him Motrin. Twenty minutes later he was even hotter (102.8). I called the Dr, we agreed to watch him overnight and see how he was Sat. morning. I thought for sure this was the beginning of the flu..had my handy dandy chart in front of me trying to figure out which flu it was...seasonal or H1N1??

Sat am came and he only had 100 degree fever so the Dr. decided not to call in Tamiflu and to continue with Motrin and the Oscillococcinum that I ran out and got him started on Friday night. He was back to himself all day Sat and only had low grade fever that night.

Sunday was the same thing, except the runny nose caught up with him and the coughing started. He woke me up at midnight last night saying he needed a drink and a treatment. Sad when a 4 year old can tell you he needs a treatment.

Daddy took him to the Dr today and he has fluid in his right lung...pneumonia. He is on continued nebulizer treatments and prednisone and an antibiotic.

Please keep him in your prayers to get well soon and not be hospitalized like the last time he had pneumonia.

Halloween 2009

2009-11-01T15:37:00.005-05:00

Julian was my monkey this year, and he is quite a monkey climbing on everything at home!! Manny wanted to be Spiderman. The weather was yucky, warm, but rainy. I decided we'd do the mall then hit up all of the family. Manny really enjoyed trick or treating this year and ate more candies last night than I care to think about. I'm sure he figured he'd never get the chance again, or even get his bag back so he'd better eat what he could. Julian didn't quite get the hang of holding his bag open and getting candy...he did say treat once in a while and snatched up any lollipop that was put in his bag. Overall the boys had a great night!!

J with his favorite blankie (has been since newborn)

his other fav thing

notice the lolli in his mouth (that was number 2)

teasing Ethan with his lolli (#3)

Manny LOVES to make Ethan laugh

cousins

more apple/pumpkin picking with friends

2009-10-12T19:14:00.001-04:00

Julian, extremely proud of himself for taking all of the pots
out of the drawer and climbing in

cheese :)

the pumpkin Manny wanted to take home...if you can carry it, you can have it

Taina and her friend Sean

WWII planes

2009-10-11T19:01:00.002-04:00

Manny took the boys to Stewart Airport today to see the World War II planes. The boys had a great time checking them out and walking through them. Mommy and Taina had a great time without the boys :) we went shopping!!!!

home sick

2009-10-10T13:14:00.005-04:00

Julian and I were home last week because he had croup...not fun!! He needed treatments on the nebulizer every 4 hours and a 2nd treatment 2 times a day as a double dose, so a 20 min treatment. He just laid there on me each treatment and fell asleep, a sure sign he was really sick!! He also had to take prednazone...yup, that came right back at me...he spit every last drop right back out. He thankfully is much better...now it's allergies and a cough, but he is responding to allergy meds and treatments. Here are a few pics from one of our 6 days stuck in the house :)

any toy, any size can be ridden

see?!!

his new thing of squinting of the eyes

waiting for Manny to come home from school.....asked ALL day for Manny and Taina

big machines

2009-10-10T13:01:00.004-04:00

Dad's friend brought some equipment to the house to deliver our new shed, thanks to Aunt Judy and Uncle Chip!!!! Julian had fun on the trailer and Manny LOVED his ride in the skid steer.

Apple picking at Herd's

2009-10-04T17:57:00.001-04:00

The boys and I went to a birthday party at Herd's farm. They had such a great time playing in the sand, going on the hayride, taking a cow ride, and apple picking. I love that it was such a beautiful day, especially with Julian being home all last week with croup.

trying to get a pic with them both looking...doesn't ever happen

tire walking

pretending

loves, loves, loves the sandbox and "boy" toys

going on a "cow" ride

being a great big brother!!!!

my cutie

Julian, not too sure what to make of the hayride

picked up the first apple he saw to eat it

looking at his goods

everywhere he walked the apple was in his mouth

attempt #1

#3 Manny is FINALLY ready and Julian got tired of waiting

always with a face

Spiderman

2009-09-22T18:19:00.002-04:00

This morning at breakfast I noticed two bites on Manny; one on his finger and the other on his wrist. I wondered, out loud, if they were mosquito bites or spider bites. Manny looked at me very seriously like he really had been thinking and said, "If I got bit by a spider........that must mean......I'm SPIDERMAN!!!!

Manny's first day of preschool

2009-09-10T19:02:00.000-04:00

Manny started full day preschool today. He was so excited to go back to school and got on that bus without a problem (same driver and monitor as last year). We went yesterday for an orientation and he didn't want to leave. He has a new teacher and a few students in his new class from last year. He seemed very comfortable and happy to be there. I can't believe my baby is going to kindergarten next year :(

yesterday @ orientation

Taina's first day of 4th grade

2009-09-09T18:52:00.002-04:00

Taina started 4th grade this year and LOVES it! She will switch for some classes and has her own little "club".....I am so happy she is excited about this school year!

I tried :(

Space Farms

2009-09-05T20:54:00.000-04:00

Caitlin and I took the boys to Space Farms in Sussex, NJ. It was a quick ride (45 min) and not what I thought it would be from the website. It was a decent size (much smaller than Bronx Zoo) but we felt sorry for the animals. They weren't in their "natural" habitat or even close to feeling that way. They were in metal cages with not much else. Most of them were pacing back and forth and seemed bored.

Any how, the boys enjoyed seeing the animals and Manny loved the museum the best. It was full of old toys (he wanted all of them on his Christmas list), old cars and buggies. Julian enjoyed the old tractors.

view from the farm

bear bathing

Caitlin and Manny

these fallow deer were making some weird noises...could
hear them throughout the farm

Caitlin riding the pony

CAUTION....animals will bite

Mommy and Manny

Gates

2009-09-05T17:13:00.003-04:00

Manny got a new toy today...no different than any other day...and Julian kept bothering him and smacking his toys off the table. He would pick them up and hit Manny in the head with them. Manny was getting quite upset and I really couldn't think of any other way to keep Julian away.

here's keeping Julian out

Manny approves

Manny got a new toy today...no different than any other day...and Julian kept bothering him and smacking his toys off the table. He would pick

cutie

2009-09-05T17:10:00.002-04:00

Manny: "I got my new toy out of the package, mom. I'm a big boy. I'm such a cutie!!"
Mommy: "You're too funny. Who tells you that?"
Manny: "You and daddy, silly!!"

Happy Birthday Mommy

2009-09-01T14:48:00.000-04:00

finally a pic w/out Manny's tongue and Julian is sticking his out a little....boys lol

mommy and daddy going out for dinner :)

Bronx Zoo/Happy Birthday Daddy

2009-08-24T14:29:00.003-04:00

us going out for dinner

Daddy and Manny's cake (he likes to share everyone's b-day)

Norwalk Aquarium

2009-08-19T19:26:00.000-04:00

My mom and I took the kids to the aquarium in Norwalk, Connecticut. The drive wasn't bad (once Julian fell asleep) and it was a nice aquarium. I would have liked to have seen more animals, but it was just big enough for the kids.

Can never get the boys to cooperate at the same time :)

Manny reading the map

Julian loving the penguins

J having fun in the hippo mouth

precious

Taina the turtle

Julian wasn't big enough for any of them

Grandma and Taina

Manny LOVED these boats...wanted one in the gift shop....$300..don't think so

cool frog

my favorites

He did it!

2009-08-18T17:12:00.002-04:00

This morning Julian kept saying "pee pee, pee pee" and I ignored him because I was in the middle of making breakfast. He usually tells me this when I need to change him so I thought nothing of making him wait a few minutes. Taina, who doesn't deprive him of ANYTHING asked if she could take him to the potty. I figured it couldn't hurt and just told her to be sure she wipes up the floor if he goes there (has happened) He used the potty and actually went in it!! We are all so proud of Julian and I owe it all to Taina for listening to him :)

18 months old

2009-08-17T20:09:00.002-04:00

Julian is 18 months old today...I can't believe it's been a year and a half...the time has flown and before I know it he will no longer be a baby; but he'll always be MY baby!! He is doing all the same as 17 months and then some. The vocabulary has grown even more, I couldn't even begin to list all of his words. He is just as fast as his brother and sister; gotta keep up with them. He loves horses (we've been out to Blue Chip to see them) and he loves dogs. He can identify his head, hair, eyes, ears, belly and nose (for some reason the finger always goes up in the nose when I ask where his nose is).

At his check up today he got 3 shots...and he was quite hard to hold down, he's quite a strong little guy. He weighs 26 lbs 5 oz (50th %) and is 33" (about 70th %). The doctor is quite pleased with his growth.

His new obsession is taking off his shorts and diaper and trying to use the toilet like his brother. I took out the little potty so when he is ready we can start potty training him. He sits on it....sometimes in clothes....takes it apart and even pees next to it....we'll get it right at some point!!

Julian has also discovered his voice and the sounds it can make. Of course his brother (still loud and enjoys screaming) thinks this is hilarious and encourages him to scream. He also has thrown a few tantrums...getting ready for 2 :)

More soccer

2009-08-13T13:33:00.004-04:00

Last week Manny was goalie the entire game...he did AWESOME!! The other team had the ball quite often and he blocked all but one shot (he was paying attention to what the coach was telling him and didn't see the ball coming.) He was goalie this entire game as well and did such a good job!! He is actually sad that soccer is over...maybe I need to look into fall soccer instead of waiting again until next summer.

Michael and Manny

Pop and Julian (many say J looks like Pop)

Julian and Gabriella giving some love

lucky stop!!

he wanted me to stop taking pics

The Dragonflies

Pool fun

2009-08-13T13:14:00.004-04:00

The weather hasn't been all that great but the kids love to play in the pool. The water is ice cold and then will play for about 2 hours....until I've had enough and call it quits.

J running away with pool toys

plumber butt...losing his trunks

they "had to" keep refilling the pool so they could splash it out again

Mommy and Julian

Mr. Cool

Taina had Julian laying out with her...

...for about 30 seconds...this is more fun!!!

Bad Joe

2009-07-25T22:06:00.002-04:00

Manny had a soccer game today...only 2 from the other team showed up so they split up Manny's team to play the game. The game was right smack in the middle of the day and pretty much ruined Julian's nap time. (game was 12-1:30) I decided later when we got home that the boys needed a nap and I could use one too. I laid down on my bed with Manny, fully expecting he would fall asleep. I woke up about 25 minutes later to him kissing me and telling me he loves me (he does this quite often so I thought nothing of it)....He runs back to the family room, where he had turned on TV and was watching noggin (good thing that the channel is programed to come on when the TV is turned on). I walk out and see a huge pile of candy wrappers on the counter and the scissors, which he used to get them open. The chair is pushed up to the counter...the evidence of how he got all the way up into the cabinet of where we keep the stash. I asked Manny what all the candy wrappers were doing on the counter and Manny told me "Bad Joe" did it. Now Bad Joe is some imaginary friend/ghost Manny has been talking about the past 2-3 weeks. Whenever anything goes wrong he tells me Bad Joe did it....I then proceeded to count the candy wrappers....1, 2, 3, 4......15, 16, 17, 18...18 candy wrappers later...I am trying my hardest not to laugh because I really did find this amusing. I then went over to him, still watching TV and acting like nothing was wrong to find the evidence on his face. I asked him why he had chocolate all around his mouth. He told me Bad Joe did it so he would get in trouble. I talked to him about what he did and explained why it was wrong, all the while stifling my laughs because I couldn't believe he went out to the kitchen and did all this...then came in to kiss me and wake me. He didn't even try to hide the wrappers in the garbage...that's a 4 year old for you. After a time out in his room he told me that he would never eat that many candies again because they are bad for him and that from now on he would only have one. We then turned to walk out of his room and he asked me for two candies....uuhhh hello, didn't you just tell me they were bad for you. Manny did learn his lesson on his own, the hard way, the best way. He got a stomach ache from the candy....and they were all sugar free...so it really gave him an upset stomach.

Munchkin Soccer

2009-07-18T13:23:00.005-04:00

Manny had his first soccer game today and loved it. He listened to the coaches and did exactly as they showed him or told him. It was funny to see them running around the field, knocking into one another, falling, and kicking towards the wrong goal. Manny played goalie for a period of time and I think got bored.

17 months old

2009-07-17T13:29:00.004-04:00

My little Julian, where has the time gone? I can't believe you are 17 months old already! You are such a sweet little boy who is happy all of the time. You are easy going and love your big brother and sister. You amaze me with all of the talking and repeating you are doing. Your favorite word by far is "Mommy". "Shoes" is probably your second favorite and you ALWAYS want them on!! You also say Mammy (Manny), Taina, Daddy, dog, happy, apple, banana,grapes, hot dog,out, sit, what, up, eat, hungry, Pop, ball, car, Amma (Grandma), and more that I can't think of right now. Oh yeah, how could I forget your new word, courtesy of your brother and sister....MINE!! You are a little dare devil and climb on everything. I know I will regret writing this but the one thing you don't climb in or out of is your crib (you'll probably do it tonight or tomorrow with my luck). You go down for naps and bed so easily. You know when it is time and we walk in, you close the door, and wait for us to cuddle. I took your bottle away today (should have been gone earlier but you have such a love for it...mommy couldn't take it from you) and you are doing fine. The only thing we have to work on is you sleeping through the night...please ?!?!? You love to play outside, go down the slide and look at books. You are growing too quickly and wanting so much independence day by day. I love you my sweet J...you'll always be my stinky, even though Daddy says I can't call you that. Kisses!
love, Mommy

Hershey Park & Dutch Wonderland

2009-07-12T15:27:00.006-04:00

Warning...picture overload...if you don't want to see all the pics you can close out now...but I know Grandma wants to see them :)

Julian's 1st Merry go Round...loved it until it went fast

Dutch Wonderland

He went on this ride about 5 times...perfect for him

sit back, feet up, relaxin

Afternoon at the park

2009-07-07T12:25:00.003-04:00

Fourth of July

2009-07-07T11:28:00.007-04:00

WARNING!!!!!............Picture overload

We decided to have a last minute 4th party at our house (our first official BBQ besides the kids' b-day parties) and we had a great time. Manny and cuz Matt had a ton of fireworks and were like little "big" kids all day shooting them off. I wish I had captured lil Manny's expression each time one was lit....he thought it was the best thing in the world!!!

My little J (not so little anymore...looking more and more like a big boy)

I wish they were always this sweet :)

New favorite of the 3

Taina is such a little mother to him

Great Grandma Dorothy with Julian

Thinks he's hilarious for climbing up there

some sparkler fun

once Manny got over his fear he enjoyed it too (thanks Matt)

more sparklers into the night

one of the many that Manny (big) and Matt put on

Manny and his BFF Caitlin

Food

2009-07-07T11:16:00.002-04:00

Julian LOVES to eat. He was never a fan of baby food and to this day won't eat anything of that consistency (mashed potatoes, applesauce). His favorite things to eat are veggies and fruits. He also enjoys pasta with sauce...pictures explain for themselves :)

J's favorite little place to sit

falling to sleep still putting food in his mouth

CHEESE

2009-06-20T16:34:00.003-04:00

this is Julian's new cheesy grin!!

lots of happenings

2009-06-17T18:45:00.004-04:00

Manny's preschool moving up
Grandma and Manny

Manny receiving his "diploma"

my sweetness

Julian enjoying his foodCHEESE!!!!

LOVES the bath!!

brotherly love

my favorite time!! too bad it wasn't in the house for a full 2 hours

So it seems that all I have time for are misc pics...hence things are crazy right now with work winding down for the summer, Manny finishing his 1st year of preschool and trying to get things done around the house....I will post all those pics on here

Sweetness

2009-06-09T18:18:00.003-04:00

This is what I saw when I went to put Manny to bad last night....I LOVE that he is cuddled with his bear and he can't sleep without either of these blankets....Sleep tight my angel

Misc

2009-06-09T18:00:00.003-04:00

So much has been going on to keep us all very busy...and I haven't had my camera at each event. We went to the circus and the boys had fun...Julian would have liked it better if he wasn't confined to my lap!!

Niko and Manny

Julian

Grandma and Pop have been up at the house a lot

Manny and Taina have enjoyed water gun fights :)

My littlest man ready for a nap

I've been planting galore and trying to make everything outside look beautiful!!! Only a few more weeks of work then I have a list a mile long of things to complete this summer...

Hasn't happened again

2009-05-19T18:57:00.000-04:00

NO, Julian has NOT slept through the night again....it was a one time thing. Daycare told me that they had played outside for 2 hours that day = Julian sleeping through the night.

UUMMMMM can you play outside EVERY DAY for 2 hours?

Thanks!!

He did it!!!! (once)

2009-05-12T05:46:00.002-04:00

OMG I have to document this as I have all of Julian's firsts....he finally slept through the night (at almost 15 months)!!! He went to bed at 6:30 and got up at 5:30. I, on the other hand, woke up all night long to check him. Every couple of hours I'd wake up, not get up, roll over and look at the monitor and see his stomach rising and falling....phew, he WAS still breathing!!

I don't birth boys who sleep. Manny didn't sleep through the night (without me sleeping on the floor next to him) until almost the end of my pregnancy with Julian. Yes, I slept on the floor 8 months prego.

Now, I just have to figure out why he slept through the night, so we can do it again!!! Sooner is better than later!!! Is he finally "old" enough and ready? Was it the Benadryl that I gave him to help his allergy like symptoms (he's had this before and never slept through the night)? Was it the Tylenol? (he was really irritable and pulling at his ear before bed) Was it a combo of the Benadryl and Tylenol? (I've combined them before) Did he nap well at daycare? Can a child be okay, without side effects having Benadryl and Tylenol every night.....just to try it out to see if it helps him sleeping?? I am SOOOOO joking....I would never give him those 2 meds EVERY night....

Happy Mother's Day

2009-05-07T19:15:00.000-04:00

Before I was a Mom,
I never tripped over toys
or forgot words to a lullaby.
I didn't worry whether or not
my plants were poisonous.
I never thought about immunizations.

Before I was a Mom,
I had never been puked on.
Pooped on.
Chewed on.
Peed on.
I had complete control of my mind
and my thoughts.
I slept all night.

Before I was a Mom,
I never held down a screaming child
so doctors could do tests.
Or give shots.
I never looked into teary eyes and cried.
I never got gloriously happy over a simple grin.
I never sat up late hours at night
watching a baby sleep.

Before I was a Mom,
I never held a sleeping baby just because
I didn't want to put her down.
I never felt my heart break into a million pieces
when I couldn't stop the hurt.!
I never knew that something so small
could affect my life so much.
I never knew that I could love someone so much.
I never knew I would love being a Mom.

Before I was a Mom,
I didn't know the feeling of
having my heart outside my body..
I didn't know how special it could feel
to feed a hungry baby.
I didn't know that bond
between a mother and her child.
I didn't know that something so small
could make me feel so important and happy.

Before I was a Mom,
I had never gotten up in the middle of the night
every 10 minutes to make sure all was okay.
I had never known the warmth,
the joy,
the love,
the heartache,
the wonderment
or the satisfaction of being a Mom.
I didn't know I was capable of feeling so much,
before I was a Mom .

Happy 4th birthday Manny

2009-04-29T20:40:00.004-04:00

I can't believe you are 4 today....it seems like only yesterday I was holding you as my newborn son. You took my breath away the first time I held you and this love I feet for you has grown stronger and larger each day. You must tell me 25 times a day that you love me very much and as annoying as it can be hearing you say "Mommy" for the 200th time that day, when you tell me you love me it makes me quickly forget that I was thinking "what do you want now?". You are such a great big brother and the love you have for Julian is quite evident and even complete strangers have made the comment about loving your brother. You do like to argue or shall I say reason with me a little too much, but hey you are just like your father....in many other ways too. You are going to preschool and everyone there loves you. As Sarah puts it....you ARE the party. You have such a radiant smile and can make anyone feel better without even trying. As I look at you each day I see what an awesome boy you are turning out to be....a boy, I can't believe you aren't a baby anymore!! At least I have finally convinced you that me calling you "my baby" doesn't mean you are a baby. Happy Birthday Manny, I love you VERY much!!!

love,
Mommy

Easter 2009

2009-04-13T18:17:00.000-04:00

The kids enjoyed getting up this morning and seeing what was in their Easter baskets. They only got 1 small chocolate bunny and a few toys. It seems though that whatever toy Julian gets, Manny wants it. Why is that? We went to my parent's for Easter dinner and the kids had a blast, as usual.

Julian and I with the grandmas (great-grandmas)

An attempt at a shot

Pop with Daddy and Julian (it was windy!!)

My little love

love it, love it, love it!!!!!

Manny is a champ

2009-04-11T12:18:00.003-04:00

Manny's surgery went well. He was the 2nd one scheduled and seemed a little nervous, but showed me how strong he really is. He loved his cap they put on him for surgery...he loves animals. Our Dr. told me he didn't cry at all, was making them laugh and enjoying talking with them before they put him to sleep (by mask). Surgery lasted about 45 minutes and we saw him shortly after recovery and he was still sleepy. They brought him back upstairs to his room and within 2 hours he was back to himself. I had brought "special" toys that I picked up just for the hospital stay...hoping the newness would keep him entertained for the entire day and night....yeah my wishful thinking!! He watched tv, played and just enjoyed having mommy and daddy to himself. He had to stay overnight for observation, even though you could clearly see how "well and normal" he was.

Before being taken into the OR

After, up in room playing

Playing cars with Daddy

All throughout my preparing him I never mentioned the word hospital because I didn't want to bring back the bad memories of last years 3 day visit with pneumonia. I always said we were doing to Dr. D's "big" office for the tubes. Well, a couple hours after surgery he says to me "I've been here before. Well, not HERE in this bed before but in a different one in the hospital." His memory amazes me!!! We are all so happy Manny is recovering so well!!! Love you big boy!

Randomness

2009-04-08T15:12:00.003-04:00

Our spring break is going too quickly and we have yet to feel "spring" this week. I can't believe it is flurrying outside today....I want warm weather!!!!!

My cousin Ryan and Ashley had their baby girl yesterday....welcome Brynlee Elizabeth, can't wait to meet you!! Brynlee is my grandmother's 9th great-grandchild....she has 14 grandchildren.

Manny goes in tomorrow for his surgery,,,2nd set of tubes and adenoids taken out. He has to stay overnight so they can monitor b/c of adenoids....he's not happy at all that he has to stay. I've been trying to prepare him, but it's not going well. I did not tell him it's at the hospital though because he has such strong feelings about staying there from when he had pneumonia last year and had to sleep in the "cage" or so it looked. He knows he is going to get another set of tubes put in his ears and is okay with that. I haven't waited to cause him too much anxiety so they rest of the procedure we will deal with as it comes. While he is under they will also do the blood work that we've needed from the endocronologist....I'll be glad to get those results. I picked up new matchbox cars, magic coloring pad, a go fish game and Candy Land...I figure they are new and will help to keep him occupied all day and into the night (I know I am hopeful)!! Please keep him in your thoughts.

A beautiful day

2009-04-02T21:20:00.004-04:00

This is what I got the most pictures of....he is so fast and always on the go

Pop helping Julian in the trike

Pop, Grandma and J

Taina trying to get Julian to play ball

The 3 stooges enjoying the warm weather

more dr visits...I think I pay as much in copays a month as I do on our cell phone and cable bills

2009-04-02T21:16:00.001-04:00

I've been to the doctor's the past two days....Manny and Julian both have double ear infections. Manny's is quite infected with one "bulging" as the dr. put it. Thankfully we caught it and have gotten him on meds because his surgery is scheduled for next week. Julian has his 3rd ear infection since January..hope he is not following in his big brother's footsteps....Here's to hoping I get more sleep tonight than I got last night :)

Julian's 1 yr checkup

2009-03-26T17:08:00.003-04:00

I finally got to the doctor's for Julian's 1 year checkup. He is 24 lbs 8 oz and 32" tall. He is in the 50-75 percentile for weight and 75-80 percentile for height. The dr is thrilled with his growth and can't believe all the talking/repeating he is doing.

He says 'hi' all the time and to everyone, everywhere we go (a little mayor like his brother). He also says hey, cat, more (and signs it too), stop, juice and he just said yesterday at daycare....."I want my mama" 3 times. I know there are a few more words but I can't think of what they are right now. He goes up the stairs easily and loves to climb them and he runs at such speed to keep up with his big brother and sister. He still loves his blanket and sleeps with it every night. He has begun to cuddle with a really soft teddy bear and even drives cars on the floor with 'vvvrroooommm' noises. We love you big boy!!!

Julian's first haircut

2009-03-18T17:41:00.003-04:00

I am way behind on blogging....Julian had his first haircut Sunday, March 8, 2009. The boys' barber works at the mall on Sundays so we decided to take him there seeing as how I needed pictures of the event!! I really didn't think he would sit on the raised bench, but he did!! We continuously popped loli-pops in his mouth and he was enjoying them. WHen one fell out or got hair on it we gave him a new one. It wasn't until the very end that he got antsy and wanted down from the chair. He looks like such a big boy now....his hair is shorter than what I wanted, but I know it will grow.

Before heading out...mommy and her boys

Getting started....1st lolli-pop

Such a big boy

The new little "man" in my life

doesn't he look like such a big boy here (only 12 1/2 months)

3 yr old grammar lessson

2009-03-15T08:24:00.003-04:00

Last night I was giving something to Manny and said "Here babes."
He said, "No Mommy, I am one babe, not two babes!"
"Oh, ok honey."

Julian's b-day party 2-28-09

2009-03-14T18:42:00.003-04:00

Julian's birthday party with family and friends was awesome. He had such a good time running around and playing with the other kids. The club house we rented is huge and had lots of room for the kids to run wild...and they did!! I had a jumpy house for them to jump in, a sand box, a ball pit and some ride on toys. Outside there was a swing set and a huge play area for them (I think only 2 of the bigger kids ventured out there, the rest were content inside).

The cake

Gabriella helping J open a gift

Trying to get the balls out

Having fun while Taina pushes him across the room

Julian even helped to clean up!!

The perfect ending to his perfect day!

Julian's 1st haircut

2009-03-08T17:17:00.003-04:00

We are again at moms so I snapped a pic of Julian with his new haircut...more to come

Julian and Uncle Chris

Our day at the park

2009-03-08T13:05:00.003-04:00

Julian thinking about climbing the wall

J loving his brother's bat

Manny up on top of the climbing thing

Julian loved the swing for a few minutes only

Manny LOVED this!! Faster, Faster!!

b-day pics

2009-03-07T16:19:00.004-05:00

I am at my moms so I am able to upload pics from her computer...they are in no order....from his actual b-day...no party pics yet.

Julian's b-day party at daycare

at home

The boys and Pop

J and Grandma

Fun at the park

2009-03-07T13:05:00.002-05:00

I took the boys to the park this morning....loving this weather (62 degrees right now) and they had a great time. Julian was all over the place exploring and taking everything in. Manny had a great time climbing and going down the slide. He had fun running and being able to make noise!! I was pushing him and 2 other bigger kids on the spinning thing and he was so cute.
Manny to other kids; "That's my mom, she's cool. Her name is Jen."
Oh how I love you Manny and love that you think I'm cool....because I know in 10 years I will not be that cool in your eyes!!
Again, no pics because I still can't upload them to blogger for whatever reason.

More tubes

2009-03-03T19:37:00.003-05:00

It was decided at Manny's ENT appointment today that he will have a second set of tubes put in and his adenoids removed at the same time. I am not happy that he needs surgery and has to be put under....but I like the idea that he will not have the ear infections every couple of weeks and constantly be in pain. His behavior changed (not for the better) recently and we knew it had something to do with the ears....same thing was happening before his last set of tubes. The ENT explained something about the pressure (or no pressure....I forget) in his middle ear affects it. We do not have a date set yet....hopefully soon though. Another positive is that he told me we can have the blood work done while Manny is under; that the endocrinologist forgot to do.....my main reason why I went to him.

another dr visit

2009-03-02T15:41:00.003-05:00

Julian was to have his 1 yr checkup today....plans changed and he had a sick visit instead....we went like 3 weeks this time without either boy needing to go to the doctors. Like I suspected Julian has an ear infection. We'll see how he does with this medicine. He is doing well transitioning over to whole milk. He still takes a mixed bottle of milk and formula but I am slowly weening him. He has begun repeating many words....stop, hi, yes, cat, Tyler, Na (for Taina). He is probably on schedule but for me this is an amazing thing. Manny never spoke this early due to the numerous ear infections he had already had by age 1. This is Julian's 3rd ear infection though and I am worried we are headed down the same road as Manny. Tomorrow I take Manny to the ENT and I will be pushing for a second set of tubes...no more waiting. Since we were there December 30th Manny has had 3 double ear infections. I am also asking about adenoids because he can snore up a storm....also sounds like he is singing or humming while snoring. I've also noticed he hangs his head off the side of the bed sometimes when he is stuffed up....does it really help his breathing?

maybe oneday...

2009-03-01T08:36:00.003-05:00

So I am very upset because I still can't upload pictures to show you all Julian's birthday celebrations...daycare, home and his party....hopefully one day soon we'll get rid of the virus and I can upload pics....

Recap

2009-02-07T18:22:00.002-05:00

Since last Saturday things have gotten better, then worse. Julian started a different antibiotic Sunday and seemed to be doing okay with it. Friday he had 2 mushy diapers then threw up his dinner, meds and bottle....woke up this morning with diarrhea again and a dry, barky cough. I don't know what is going on with my little guy, but I can only hope it gets better with the warmer weather. We have his allergy testing next Saturday.

Last Thursday I took Manny to Westchester to see an endocrinologist after waiting 4 months for the appointment. He had a lot of blood work done (this was torture to Manny and me and mom who thankfully came with me. He has horrible veins, like his momma (they had to take it out of my hand every time I needed blood during both pregnancies) and screamed bloody murder. It took 4 of us to hold him down and get the blood drawn, but we got it. I called this Thursday to get the results, only to find out he never ordered a glucose or insulin test.....MY MAIN concern and why we went to the doctors. Now I have to go and get blood drawn again....and we need to see a genetic doctor, a pulmonologist and a nutritionist....just a few to add to the million doctors I already take the three of them to!! To top it all of he has fluid in his ears again....third time since tubes came out and will most likely need a new set=more surgery.

Please keep my boys and our family in your thoughts as we go through all of this and await answers.

Outside fun

2009-01-31T17:55:00.002-05:00

The kids had a great time playing outside with a few others from across the street. Don't mind the blurriness...I was taking the pics from inside through the window w/screen. I was stuck inside with Julian, on one of his many sick days lately.

Julian thinks he's funny taking everything out of the drawers

What a week..

2009-01-31T08:40:00.003-05:00

my poor Julian has had. It started with the fever and double ear infection. On the third day of giving him his antibiotic he started with diarrhea and his poor little butt was sore. On Thursday he was having nasty diapers every 2 hours and was keeping nothing in him. I started pedialite and even that went right through him. Yesterday we stopped the meds and tried to follow the BRAT diet with him all day with a teaspoon of pedialite every 15 minutes...this didn't seem to do much. His doctor feared we would have to take him to the emergency room last night for an IV. Miraculously (I think so anyway) his diarrhea has disappeared and he has had only wet diapers since 5 pm Friday night.
After talking with my sister in law (the doctor also wondered this) thinking Julian may have had an allergic reaction to the meds. My poor little guy has been through so much...starting in the womb. I think he is going to be my sensitive one with whom we need to watch everything he eats and drinks. He goes for allergy testing for milk in 2 weeks. Please keep him in your thoughts until he is 100% better. He is not out of the clear yet because he was only on meds for 4 days; his ear infection is not gone....we'll see what happens.

Facebook

2009-01-28T18:37:00.002-05:00

Is anyone else as addicted to Facebook as I am? I love to go on and see what people are up to...especially ones I haven't seen in 15 years since HS. I've even begun to plan a 15 year reunion just so we can all catch up....I like to stalk their pictures and find new friends off of their friend list.....how about you...what do you do when on facebook?

Day of sickness and fun

2009-01-28T17:48:00.003-05:00

Manny enjoyed playing with moon sand...I didn't enjoy cleaning up after themTaina helping Manny to create a farm

Eat or kiss....you decide

Julian with his his boo boo from daycare

Sick boy....again

2009-01-28T14:40:00.003-05:00

Saturday night, not long after putting him down for bed, Julian was awake. He will usually get up 4-5 hours after going down, but this was like an hour after going down. He was up hanging out with Daddy and I until we were falling asleep and he reluctantly went back into the crib. A short time later he was up again...not wanting bottles any of these times. I knew something was wrong, just didn't quite know what. Last time Julian was sick he slept and slept....ear infection crossed my mind seeing as how we are an old pro with these with Manny. Julian spiked a fever Sunday morning at 104, but it quickly responded to the motrin (thankfully)! He then proceeded to have a runny nose and just wasn't acting like himself. I stayed home Monday and brought him to the doctors....double ear infection. He is now on meds and acting more like himself. The only drawback to the antibiotic are the nasty diapers that come with it. The doctor suggested yogurt...but he doesn't tolerate dairy well. I did try giving him a little, and we were good for 90 minutes....until he wanted a bottle before nap. AS soon as he took a sip....it was over...literally all over me and his stuffed animals YUCK!!!! That is his next trip to the doctors....allergist to be exact. We have to have skin testing done to see if he is allergic to dairy or soy or whatever other milk products there are. This stems from his being on hypoallergenic formula since he was 4 months old. I've tried soy formula recently and he didn't do well with it. We know from experience he doesn't tolerate dairy well. Hopefully we'll then know what to do with him when he turns one next month....whole milk, soy milk, rice milk, goat milk...who knows....I just know this formula is expensive and killing our pockets....what will special milk do?

That melts my heart

2009-01-23T19:48:00.002-05:00

Manny and Julian are so sweet together. When one gets up in the morning he instantly looks for the other. Julian will run all over the house looking for his brother and when he finds him he climbs on him, smiles and laughs with him; and they just enjoy one another. I am so happy that they are growing closer by the day...I wish for them to be best friends!! A while ago when they were being all "loving," I told Manny that seeing them like that "melts my heart"! Well, I've said a few times since them when they were being sweet with each other. Last week I was putting on Manny's sneakers so he could run to the store with me. He said to me, "I love you mommy"! (for the 100th time that day) and I said, "I love you too"! He then responded, "NO! Tell me, that melts my heart." You do melt my heart Manny, everyday!!!!

Taina's family b-day party

2009-01-19T19:39:00.003-05:00

In no particular order are photos from Taina's family b-day party yesterday...it was so nice to have the family at out house spending time!! I sat back at one point and looked around just watching everyone and it made me happy to watch everyone interacting and having a great time!

Manny and my nephew Caleo....they were taking turns with the weave or extentions..whatever it is

Manuela

My handsome nephew, Niko

My cousin's wife Lexy and their son Ethan

Julian enjoying the wrapping paper

cake time

Julian and Pop

the kids

Julian playing with his big cousin Niko

Brotherly love

2009-01-19T16:19:00.003-05:00

No, he's not going to eat him; he's giving kisses

okay, maybe he's gonna bite him here

2009-01-19T16:11:00.002-05:00

Julian loved playing with his brother's toys the other morning without them being taken away..

Happy Birthday Taina

2009-01-14T18:40:00.002-05:00

Princess Taina is 9 years old today.....Happy Birthday!!!! Yes, that is a "0" in her cake. We didn't have a "9" and we haven't celebrated a birthday with candles in this new house, so all the candles were left at Grandma and Pop's house....she got to choose between "3 and 2"....We love you Na Na!!!!

My sick boys

2009-01-13T21:51:00.002-05:00

The past week has NOT been fun. Early last Monday (January 5...my first day back to work after 12 days off) Manny woke up crying that his ear hurt him....yup assumed yet another ear infection. Julian had started coughing the night before so I figured I'd take them to the Dr after work. Just as I thought double ear infection for Manny and Julian had a bad bronchial infection which would have turned into pneumonia had I not gone to the Dr that day. I was sent home with an antibiotic for each boy and nebulizer treatments for Julian as well as a few other things. Manny quickly went down hill and he developed a cough (his infamous always seem to get one cough) and we started treatments with him. By the end of the week neither of them had made much progress...fevers, runny nose, cough still deep and nasty...Manny upped his meds and started Prednazone and his next step was the emergency room. Julian finally made a turn for the better Sunday during the day or else his next step was prednazone. Let me tell you, it was NO picnic being stuck in the house with the two boys Saturday and Sunday and having to do nebulizer treatments on them both every 4 hours. All I can say is I was thankful to go back to work Monday and that they are both doing better!!!

Nap in the wagon

2009-01-13T21:44:00.003-05:00

Julian loves the wagon, even being pulled around in the playroom (way too cold for outside now!!) He fell asleep during his very short "walk".

2009-01-13T21:36:00.002-05:00

Manny took this picture the other morning as the sun was shining through the icy trees.

Julian and vacation is over!

2009-01-04T11:09:00.008-05:00

I have enjoyed this vacation, more than any recently. I've enjoyed spending time with the kids (even Manny has been enjoyable and his behavior is improving. Maybe it's with age or the fact that he really is learning at school).

I have a couple of big snowmen set up at the landing of the stairs and Julian stands and sits at the top of the stairs at the gate talking to them. I had to move them there because he was pulling at their noses and pulling them down the hallway by their arms....so cute!!!!

(I love this one of his excitement at the Christmas tree!!)

Julian though was so much fun to be with and amazes me with all he does. He can quickly climb the entire set of stairs, but doesn't know how to get down them yet!! In a matter of a few weeks he has gone from walking very cautiously to practically running after his big brother and sister. He does this cute dance with his feet and for some reason likes to shake his head back and forth a few times. When he wants something he takes his hand and motions for me to come to him or whatever it is he wants. He is learning so much each day and really is such a good boy. He had an awesome time at this photo shoot

and wore me out because he kept running away from the prop so I had to chase him, get him posed again then he was off. He still does this dolphin noise and wrinkles up his nose to be cute. The bath is another love of his and he enjoys slashing mommy with the water. Julian is not a big cuddler...maybe this is my fault because I don't have the time like I did with Manny, or maybe it's that he sleeps in his own crib, unlike his big brother who slept in our bed the first year and a half of his life (who am I kidding...he still ends up in our room). Or maybe it's just who Julian is and he is one special little boy. I prayed for a laid back good baby and I received. God knew I had my hands full with the big two and he really blessed us with a calm and laid back little boy....his demeanor reminds me of my father at times. We joke with Big Manny saying that Lil Manny and Taina definitely take after him and Julian takes after me!!!

I love all three of you and thank you for letting me enjoy being with you guys these past 12 days!!!

Sleeping beauty

2008-12-27T10:34:00.000-05:00

Julian fell asleep against Daddy

Christmas morning

2008-12-26T22:00:00.003-05:00

Here are a few shots of Christmas morning at home before heading out for the day. We went to Manny's sister's house and spent time with my nephews and mother in law and from there we went to my grandmother's (maternal) and had dinner and gifts with all 30 or however many of us there are... Julian crashed in his pack n play before the night was over. We'll get him back into his routine within the next few days!

Grandma came by to watch the kids open gifts...it was quiet at

their house this year without us there

Manny came downstairs expecting to see Santa and this

was his expression when he didn't see him

Christmas Eve

2008-12-26T21:39:00.003-05:00

Christmas Eve has always been spent with my parents, brother (and now sister in law), my dad's sister and husband and my grandmother. The tradition remains, with a few slight changes in the past few years. We've gone out to eat the last few years (this year was the first I didn't bring my children....and it was enjoyable) and this year we all came back to our house for dessert and gifts. Julian was still awake to my surprise when we got home from dinner and enjoyed opening gifts, or should I say eating the wrapping paper and playing with gift bags and bows. This was Julian's first Christmas and he was clueless, as we all expected.

Taina with her new Tinkerbell movie
Manny in his wagon...which he wanted everyone to pull him in around the house

Julian enjoying the bag...not the stuffed animal that was in it

(Great) Grandma looking at the ornament we made her....a finger
from each of us turned into snowmen

Pop Pop and Julian

Interior designer

2008-12-26T21:35:00.002-05:00

So Manny has been helping me decorate for Christmas....like his decorations?!?!?!

Mission Impossible!!

2008-12-26T21:28:00.003-05:00

This is what you get when you try and have 3 children pose for a picture....funny faces, fake smiles, one not looking and the other 2 perfect (or semi perfect)....I can't choose which one is the better of the 5....HELP!!!

My boys

2008-12-26T21:16:00.002-05:00

I love these two so much. I never knew what it felt like to love someone (both boys in this case) so much and in the way I do....I would do anything for them. I love my husband too....it's just a different kinda love. I had heard you never knew a mother's love until you are a mother and boy is this true!!!

(I know Julian has a dirty shirt...he had just finished dinner....and the reflux is still an issue every now and then....but I love the photo;which any photo with the two together and decent is rare!!!!)

Julian loves the bath

2008-12-26T20:54:00.002-05:00

Julian LOVES to take a bath. After dinner I tell him we are gonna go take a bath and he walks to the bathroom and bangs on the tub until I get there. He is fascinated with the water coming out and thinks it's the funniest thing when he splashes.

Entertainment Center

2008-12-22T20:54:00.002-05:00

We finally got an entertainment center for the living room and got the TV off the floor....I LOVE it and have to finish filling it!!

Julian walking at 9 1/2 months

2008-12-13T13:09:00.002-05:00

This is just a short video I captured of Julian walking....every time he is on the go non stop I never have the camera!! You'll just have to stop by to see him in action.

Ice storm

2008-12-13T13:03:00.003-05:00

The ice quickly melted yesterday, but I captured a few shots of what it looked like around us. Manny had gone out yesterday morning and he said the only ice he saw was where we live, on top of a hill. Once you left our road and went down either side of the hill.....there was no ice!! It fugures we had it worse, the wind is ALWAYS horrible here. I have 2 x-mas trees on the front porch and I must pick them up 5 times a day. Here are a few shots of the lot next door.....

Julian

2008-12-12T10:25:00.004-05:00

What a night we had....ice storm=no power. I had gotten up at midnight to feed Julian and no sooner had I opened the microwave door to take out the bottle (yes this is how I warm it up) and the power went out. I put Julian back in his crib after the bottle and tried to make sure everyone was snug because I knew it would get cold, and who knew when the power would come back on!
Julian woke back up at 4:45am and he must have been cold...he doesn't believe in blankets. We've been up playing since then.

Thankfully the power came back on about 8am....and things are toasty in here now!!

Julian playing with cars Making a mess

Look at his hair....the color, the waves....I LOVE IT!!!

scrunching up his nose is his new thing

Here is is laughing at me because I told him "NO!"! He was pulling at the computer wires and thought it was the funniest thing when I told him not to do it.

Again, laughing at mommy

I want to take the boys to the mall and see Santa today....maybe I'll make it to Picture People and get a x-mas shot done of Julian in his Santa outfit.....

9 month update

2008-12-07T13:12:00.004-05:00

So I realized I never did a 9 month post for Julian. At his well baby checkup he was 21 lbs. 5 oz and 28 1/2 in long. I believe he was in the 50th percentile for both. It really wasn't a well check up though because he was sick with 103 temp for 4 days and a sinus infection.

At 9 months Julian is able to climb up an entire set of stairs (yup he's very proud of himself). He is also walking from one side of the room to the other and does not give up. (video to follow, I promise!!) I love listening to him "talk". He babbles nonstop with dadadadada and mamamamama and bababababa and is usually very happy.

Let the fun begin, now that he will REALLY be into everything!!

Playing catch up in no particular order

2008-11-29T21:19:00.003-05:00

These past few weeks have been busy; with sick children, parent/teacher conferences, doctor appointments and Thanksgiving....in no particular order are some photos of the last few happenings.

Me and my boys being silly

The $9 5am Walmart special that kept Manny busy ALL day Fri and Sat!!!

Julian showing his walking skills

Happy boy Manny

Mommy and Julian Thanksgiving....my poor baby was sick with fever that day too...that was day number 3...thankfully he is much better now!!!

Julian riding his car

Manny drawing at school...I went for his family celebration

Julian peering through the pack n play

Handy Manny

New lens

2008-11-18T06:19:00.000-05:00

I have a Canon Rebel XTi and love it!! I am no photographer, but I love to capture my kids doing cute and fun things. I only have the lens that it came with (18-55mm) and would love to upgrade to a new lens....my problem is I am clueless as to what to get. I would like something that zooms in closer, so maybe I can capture better pictures of Taina during cheerleading.

If you have any advice please feel free to educate me.

t-shirts

2008-11-17T16:42:00.002-05:00

Every once in a while I truly appreciate the saying on a child's t-shirt; most often though I think they are tacky (at least the older kids and that is what I see at work).

Today one of my student's t-shirts said..."My parents taught me how to walk and talk....Now they tell me to sit down and be quiet"

I think I got a chuckle out of it because in school it is true, we tell the kids to be in their seats (at least during lessons...even though I don't have a problem with a child half up and whatever...as long as they are focusing and paying attention) I guess as a parent we do tell our children to quiet down when necessary and I know I'm always reminding my kids to sit at the table to eat; we don't stand or walk around.

It gave me a chuckle this morning....great way to start a Monday!!

What good saying have you seen on t-shirts?

Yippeeeeee!

2008-11-15T19:02:00.002-05:00

I just received an email that I made it into the final 6 to be the newest reviewing mom at S.I.M.P.L.E.. Back in October I made it into the final 12. I think it would be so much fun to find new products and review them. I know I appreciate reading reviews at S.I.M.P.L.E. and have actually purchased many items they have recommended. I just received my BECO baby carrier in the mail and I also love my wallet and clutch from Maria Elena Designs . I hope to be the newest mom that can give other moms great products to buy.

They love him!

2008-11-15T09:36:00.003-05:00

Manny "fixing" his brother's car (it is so cute to see Julian walking and holding on to the car..it also stand/walks upright)

We had a parent teacher conference at Manny's preschool yesterday and they LOVE him!! He has adjusted well and is doing great. It's funny to hear that he corrects other kids when they are doing something wrong.....the same something that he does ALL the time at home!!! She also said many of the kids seek him out to play; he has become a favorite to them all. I was so pleased to hear this and know that he can behave...if it's only at school. Don't get me wrong he's really not that bad, just tests me alot and does typical 3 year old boy stuff.

Me

2008-11-12T21:34:00.002-05:00

I took some time for me yesterday and went and got my hair done. Manny had given me a gift certificate for my birthday and I finally got around to using it. It had been almost 2 years since I had hi-lights put in so I did two colors...blondish brown and auburn. I love it!!!!!

My boys

2008-11-10T17:45:00.000-05:00

I captured this one tonight after dinner on the cell phone....love you two!!!

Where is my train?

2008-11-03T20:16:00.002-05:00

Manny doesn't like to clean up...what 3 year old does? Yesterday he left his toys laying around and I told him if he didn't pick up his toys I was going to bring them to school with me and give them to another little boy. He picked up a few but left the rest. I of course put them away and thought nothing more about it....knowing they'd be back on the floor today.

When we got home tonight Manny emptied his toys and couldn't find one particular toy. He came running into his room, where I was changing Julian, and had the most serious face I have ever seen on him. He says, "Mom, where's my train? You give it to a boy at school?" Now mind you it took me a minute to realize what he was saying...in my head I was saying why would I give it to a boy at school but then I remembered.... "No Manny, go look around and see if you can find it."

Tonight he told me flat out he didn't want to clean up...I could just bring the toys to school.. can you say spoiled br*t!!??!!

New things

2008-11-02T15:34:00.003-05:00

Julian has learned a few new things....he now waves (both arms most of the time) frantically to say goodbye. He also climbed two steps today....such a big boy!!