The Ragan's Ramblings

Grandma Kay and Grandpa John visit

2010-08-08T10:59:00.003-04:00

And of course, Grandma Kay and Grandpa John had to make a trip up from Georgia to see our little Kennedy. We enjoyed nearly a week with them before they had to head back. We got some time in at the river where Abraham went fishing with Daddy and caught a few fish!

We are really blessed that our parents all get along and enjoy doing similar things. The 2 couples spent the day at Green Dragon Flea Market in PA and got to share in the finding of lots of neat things.

Dad, Mom, Kay and John

Going Home!

2010-08-08T10:53:00.002-04:00

Well, after 17 days in the NICU, Kennedy was finally ready to come home! And we were ready to be a family of 4 again. We are blessed to be taking home a healthy 5 lb 10 oz baby boy. It was great to see all the NICU doctors and nurses that we grew to love when Abraham and Moses were there but we do hope to not have to see them ever again :)

Praying...

2010-05-15T22:30:00.004-04:00

Kennedy still isn't home yet after nearly 16 days in the NICU. He is doing GREAT when it comes to eating - he is up to 5 lbs. 9 oz!! He has had some dips in his heart rate that the doctor is keeping an eye on. After talking to the doctor today, we are hopeful that tomorrow (16th) will be his homecoming day. We are praying that if Kennedy is ready, that the doctor will know that and will send him home.

ps. As of today - between bedrest with the boys, NICU time 4 years ago and NICU time now - we have spent 103 days at GBMC. I know that isn't anything compared to other families but it's been MORE than enough for us... and I've truly had ENOUGH of this place!

2010-05-15T22:23:00.003-04:00

Abraham was very excited to hold his baby brother for the first time.

Kennedy had to pass the car seat test - 90 minutes in the car seat without his stats going haywire. He passed with flying colors! He looks so stinking tiny in that carseat!

Abraham was really sweet, rubbing Kennedy's head and singing to him to get him to stop crying.

Me and my 2 favorite boys!

Kennedy Jay Ragan

2010-05-07T22:08:00.004-04:00

Sleeping peacefully

Out like a light - already he fits in with my sleep loving' boys!

A VERY proud Aunt KK - She wasn't here for the boys birth so it was only fitting that she was not only here but able to be in the OR when Kennedy was born. My boys are so blessed to have her as their aunt!

No longer the Ragan 3 - now proudly the Ragan 4

Kennedy either thinks Daddy is funny... or he has gas :)

My boys

Abraham was being a big helper with feeding Kennedy his bottle.

A VERY proud Mimi - again!

Kennedy Jay Ragan

2010-05-07T21:41:00.003-04:00

Well, it's been a little bit since I have put anything on my blog but it's for a good reason.
We got a surprise package - arriving nearly 5 1/2 weeks early

Kennedy Jay Ragan
5 lbs 3 oz
18 inches long
April 29, 2010
11:30 pm

I had gone to the OB on Wednesday and he said everything looked good and that we were right on schedule. I joked with him about not doing a preemie again this time and he said just make it to 36 weeks and we'll be good! Wasn't feeling good all Thursday, lots of what I THOUGHT were braxton hicks (fake contractions) but what I figure now was the beginning of labor. By dinner I was REALLY uncomfortable and my belly was getting tight every 5 minutes. After dinner I was doubled over and knew that something wasn't right. Called my sister and she said call the Dr. He told me to come in and get checked out - good thing I did!

Got to GBMC by 8:20pm and had to answer a ridiculous amount of questions to be registered. I could barely talk the contractions were so bad. They checked me out and confirmed I indeed was in labor and was about 3 cm dilated!!

They took me to a delivery room where I had to wait for about 30 minutes to get an epidural. Meanwhile, I'm texting my co-workers to tell them what was going on. Got a text out to my sister - PLEASE COME NOW! to which she responded I'M HALFWAY THERE! My next thought was "Oh crap! Mom is going to have a heart attack. She's in PA!"

Got my epidural and was in heaven! Man those things are the best! Dr. Naumann had me push for about 20 minutes but Kennedy's heart rate dropped with each push. He didn't like that so we opted to do a C-Section, which I was fine with.

They allowed both Michael AND Kari in the OR which I was really grateful for. Not only was she there for moral support but she was our photographer. That let Michael be with me and Kennedy. He was born at 11:30 on the dot. As the NICU team worked on him he let us all know that his lungs were working just fine. As soon as I heard him cry, the water works started for me! They did all their stuff with him and then I got to see him before recovery. It all happened so fast. I was glad that the anesthesiologist didn't have to give me any more drugs to calm me this time. I was able to hear Kennedy cry and savor the moment.

You can only imagine the surprise in the GA grandparents voices when Michael called to let them know Kennedy was here! They were flabbergasted along with us!

As of now, Kennedy has been in the NICU for 8 days. We expect him to be home in the next 4-5 days, a much shorter stay this time than our last. It is neat to see all the same nurses and staff in the NICU and for them to remember Abraham and Moses as well. We are much more at peace and are more calm this time around. Kennedy is at a totally different place than the boys ever were. We are still taking it one day at a time and I am making use of the time to recouperate from surgery.

We are ALL excited to have our little Kennedy HOME with us!

I had gotten the epidural and all was well in the world!

Daddy checking Kennedy out, making sure there were 10 fingers and 10 toes.

Our sweet boy - Kennedy

Don't you just love the feet? :)

A proud momma

Would you be my Neighbor?

2010-04-25T10:17:00.004-04:00

On the weekends, everybody comes out to play in the lot next to our house and they often bring their dogs. There are quite a few BIG dogs in the neighborhood but that doesn't seem to phase Clancy. I think he thinks he is one of them! He gets right in the mix and plays. Miles (black lab) doesn't care much for Clancy but Chester doesn't mind him in the least! It's fun to watch them play.

Clancy and the stick that is 3 times his size!

Clancy and Miles - Clancy is CONSIDERING taking the stick from Miles.. changed his mind shortly after!

Clancy and Chester

Eleanor is one of the twins from next door that Abraham enjoys playing with.

Ruthie is the big sister from next door - only a month older than Abraham. They get along well.

Do you REALLY have to take more pictures mom? Yes son, I do!

Day in Havre de Grace

2010-04-10T09:53:00.001-04:00

Abraham and I got to go to one of Alex's lacrosse games in Havre de Grace today. It was a beautiful day, although a bit windy. It is for certain that Alex has found his athletic niche in lacrosse. He isn't afraid to get hit AND to hit and get right in the middle of the pile fighting for the ball! Guess fighting with Chloe served him well! We were so proud of him and can't wait to go and see him play again.

A proud momma and her boy

We hit the playground down by the marina for some play time after lunch. It's a great playground, nice and big for LOTS of kids! My monkey liked climbing on everything he possibly could!

Chloe girl

Smiles all around!

We walked on the promenade down by the water where the kids found a wealth of cool stuff to look at. Alex found a shell with the animal still in it and did his big brother duty to make sure they other 2 got to see it.

This kid LOVES being outside!

Now where is my pocket...?

We stopped at Bomboy's for ice cream after walking on the promenade.. unfortunately it was farther down the road then ReRe thought. Oh well, the ice cream was worth it! :)
Me and Alex

Abraham and his chocolate cone

Kari and Chloe

Easter Egg hunt at Mimi's with the cousins

2010-04-05T23:19:00.001-04:00

Alex and Chloe were dying to do an Easter egg hunt too, so we brought our eggs over and hid them. Alex's neighbor friend Chris joined them too.

Easter 2010

2010-04-05T23:12:00.002-04:00

Daddy and Elliott help Abraham find all 30 eggs!

Ready to hunt!!

The Easter bunny put money in some of his eggs, so he made sure he got every last penny and put them in his piggy bank!

Dying Easter Eggs with G'ma Kay and Elliott

2010-04-05T23:09:00.002-04:00

My mother in law is a former art teacher and is SO great with the hands on artistry stuff. She and Abraham sat down on Sunday to paint eggs and did a great job! Uncle Elliott got in on the action as well. This occupied Abraham so I could hide the eggs outside for him to find!

Easter 2010

2010-04-05T23:02:00.002-04:00

We had a beautiful Easter Sunday here in MD this year. We were also blessed to have Michael's mom, Kay, and brother, Elliott, come and spend the weekend with us. The weather allowed us to get some much needed family pictures since its been at least 4 months!

The Ragans

Kari, Mom and Me - I love this cause all our smiles are TOTALLY natural!

Dad and Mom - one of THE best pictures of them in a long time! I love them soo much!

Kay (mom in law), Kari, Mom and Me - sure wish Kay lived closer. My mom and Kay are like 2 sorority sisters when they get together - talking non stop! :)

Sisters and BFF's for Always!

Grandma Kay, Abraham and Mimi

2010-04-03T15:33:00.003-04:00

It is absolutely GORGEOUS weather outside today... in the high 60's and just in time for Easter. We are enjoying some long over due "being home and resting" time. Did some cleaning and playing. Now we are all resting in our own ways - Michael is tying flies for fishing, Abraham is curled up in front of Looney Toones and I am between the computer and my bed! :) Ahh, so delightful!

Even Abraham got into the cleaning spirit - and cleaned his bikes off!

I love the pink dogwood (?) on the corner.. one of my favorite trees of all. (or is it a blossoming cherry tree? Guess I could ask Michael!)

Abraham and I enjoyed a picnic on our back deck today - the sun was amazing! He also got to feel Baby kick for the first time today. Abraham's eyes got really big and he laughed "He KICKED me!" I love it! :)

Random Abraham and Clancy shots

2010-04-03T15:24:00.002-04:00

This has turned into nearly an every morning ritual... Abraham in bed, Clancy on top of him playing, biting -- until Abraham starts crying and then the fun stops!

Hey, what are you doing in MY bed???

Best Buds!

30 1/2 weeks

2010-04-03T15:21:00.001-04:00

Not the best pictures of me but self portraits are difficult!
And yes, it's the same outfit as before..
And yes, there IS a baby in there and growing perfectly!

Walking in the woods

2010-04-03T15:12:00.003-04:00

We have a great woods behind our house with a stream at the bottom of the hill. Taking walks back there has become the highlight of Abraham's day with Daddy. They are such the outdoor guys! And Clancy loves it too. I went with them this day and got to watch with delight as Abraham did his thing and Clancy dug in the mud like a crazy dog! Such fun to be together as a family.

Clancy posing for me - such a good puppy! :)

Playing with Daddy

Digging in the mud together

Best Buddies

Collecting pinecones

My boys!

Definitely NOT the best picture of either of us but I was amazed that Abraham managed to get us both IN the picture!

Abraham's new room

2010-03-14T22:36:00.004-04:00

Last weekend we decided to use the last of some "house" money to finish one of the bedrooms in the house... yup, Abraham's! We had seen bedroom furniture that we liked at IKEA a while ago and decided to just bite the bullet and get it. We ended up with a great loft bed with storage/play space underneath. Got him a dresser to match with drawers and shelves -- which actually has TONS of space in it for his clothes and other stuff. We got him some storage for his 1,000's of cars and toys and stuff...

Michael put up shelves over the dresser and on the wall to the right of the window but I don't have pics of that yet.

Needless to say, the boy L.O.V.E.S. his new room and has been very eager to go to bed.. for the most part! It totally suits him and we are glad to be able to get him a big boy room!

My Big Boy Bed!!

Bed with storage for books beside it and toys under it

Michael put up red shelves above the dresser and above the ugly white shoe racks (which ended up in the closet!)

The tent is a highlight for him... and the moon light on the wall... and the cool sheets and comforter from IKEA as well.

Daddy put nearly all of it together. Thanks Daddy! :)

A Daddy, his boy and the puppy... heaven!

2010-03-14T22:31:00.002-04:00

One of the things we truly love about this house is all the open space for us and Abraham to enjoy.. and now Clancy! Next to our house is an open space that is for community use: walking dogs, playing ball, etc. Behind it is woods with a stream at the bottom of the hill. Imagine the thrill it is for my little man and his puppy to take off with Daddy when we get home from school to see what they can find! It bring such joy to my heart to see them off together! It gives me time to get dinner on the table without Clancy being right under foot.

It is so completely evident that this is the house that God had for us. We have met so many great people in the neighborhood -- 2 other guys who like to fly fish. One guy has been over a few times to tie flies with Michael even. It is a great community and we are blessed to have our own place to call home!

Blizzard Fun

2010-02-11T16:13:00.002-05:00

So I had to find some ways to keep the little man occupied during these past 5 days of being snowed in... the one day that we did get out I bought some poster board paper for him to finger paint on. We made Valentines gifts for the grandparents and for daddy. He did such a good job, and as you can tell, Mommy got in the action too!

We also made sugar cookies -- no, not homemade ones but rather from good ol' Betty Crocker. Abraham added his sprinkles to them and they turned out pretty good.

I don't know what I'd do if I had to entertain him for much longer...

23 weeks and growing!

2010-02-10T11:59:00.000-05:00

Abraham's finished bedroom

2010-02-07T19:19:00.004-05:00

It's amazing what natural light can show you when you are painting. After the sun decided to come out full force today, I was able to see the spots where the wall color underneath hadn't been covered well. I spent a lot of time touching up areas like the top of the wall and some in the middle as well. But I was determined to do it, and do it WELL! (must be my daddy in me! Thanks Dad!)

Anyhow, I finished the painting and then enlisted Abraham's help to move all the stuff out of the nursery into his "new blue" room. He was actually a better helper with the moving than with the painting! :) We got it all in and organized and then Mommy collapsed on the couch for a rest! :)

I hope to get the nursery done tomorrow (and secretly hope to get the bathroom done too!) This nesting instinct is for the "birds"! HA!

Painting

2010-02-06T23:07:00.003-05:00

Abraham and I made the best of our snow day. I finally bought the paint for his room and the nursery, so we were ready to begin. I was a bit apprehensive about having a 4 year old "help" me paint but actually, he did a half way decent job... and it actually WAS helpful! He got tired half way through the day but that was okay. Got more done without him under foot.

Glad that he still likes hanging with Momma.. wonder how long THAT will last?? :)

Blizzard of 2010 - Enough Already!

2010-02-06T22:45:00.005-05:00

Enough already!

The meterologists started on Tuesday predicting that the storm of the century would be here by Friday noon. Everyone in Bel Air, in a mass hysteria, hit the grocery stores to stock up. I on the other hand chose to wait until Thursday after school to go to the grocery store. Yea, bad choice. After I fought the hundreds of people in Giant and spent nearly 20 minutes waiting to check out, I hit Redbox where I had reserved my movies for the next few days.

Just like the meterologists said, the snow started Friday afternoon - wet at first and not sticking but very quickly changing to a heavy, wet snow that stuck. Snowed all Friday - and all Saturday(today) stopping around 4:00pm or so.

The final official measurement at BWI airport was 23.60" of snow!! I think we had more than that here but oh well!

It has been a very long time since I have seen this much snow - and never for Michael and Abraham. We had to call one of Michael's plowing guys to take a run on our neighborhood street so that Michael could get out and check his properties. When he got back in, he said that he saw more stuck cars than he had on Friday. Guess people got a bit over zealous and thought they could make it out -- sorry charlie! The drifts and piles are a good 4 feet tall in some places. Plows are working mainly on the primary roads - secondary roads aren't being touched.

I predict that if they can't get the roads clear by Monday night then we'll have off of school for the whole week. Since we are expecting another storm that is to bring 3-6" of snow on top of what we already have.

Have I said lately that I have had enough snow? Enough already!!

View out our back deck

Out the side door

On the back porch - it was nearly up to my waist.

Michael shoveling like a good husband and daddy!

He had a little too much fun throwing "snowballs" at
Daddy and Mommy!

Abraham climbed over a pile the plow made and got stuck.
Daddy to the rescue!

I've fallen and I can't get up! :)

Making his own seat by the front door

Mommy and Abraham in the snow

Baby BOY Ragan!

2010-01-23T22:18:00.002-05:00

I have had 2 sonograms since I last posted about Baby Ragan so I thought I'd put them on here with everything else. We did find out, very clearly, that we are having another BOY! All of us are very excited to add another boy to our family.

Baby is doing wonderfully! He has been somewhat cooperative for the sonograms. He is growing at just the right rate and everything is just perfect with him.

I am feeling pretty good. I am just getting tired more easily. It is totally amazing to me to feel him move all around in my belly! I can't wait to see the look on Abraham's face when he can feel Baby moving too!

Forgive the poor quality of pictures but our scanner isn't plugged in yet.

I think the pictures are self explanatory!

2010-01-23T22:15:00.002-05:00

Even though it was still pretty chilly out today, it was a gorgeous day without any precipitation. So while Daddy was fishing Abraham and I hit the playground. He just about wore me out!

I love being with my little man! If #2 is as sweet and good of a boy as Abraham is (most days!), we'll be set.

Family Visits

2010-01-23T22:05:00.003-05:00

Two of Michael's sisters made it up to see us and the new house this month. First up was Elizabeth and her boyfriend, Kevin. Abraham LOVED having 2 new people around to play with.. although I'm afraid that he just about wore them out!!

Then Emily came up and the highlight of that for Abraham was typing on her computer, something that she taught him to do when he was 2!!

We took Emily and her friend Kaitlin down to the Inner Harbor to walk around and see the sights. And of course had to hit Fells Point for all the cool shops and restaurants.

Abraham on the cannon

Family Shot - Don't ask me what my boys are doing!! Goofy as usual :)

If you are in Baltimore you MUST try on a crab hat or buy a t-shirt that says "Don't bother me! I'm crabby!

We are looking forward to MORE of our GA family to come and visit -- Hint, hint y'all!!!

Moving Day!

2010-01-23T21:57:00.003-05:00

We had planned to move to the new house before Christmas but the weather had other plans for us - about 20 inches of snow put a halt to any moving. We ended up moving right after Christmas. All of us were definitely eager to get in and start to get settled. These are just a few of our "moving" pictures.

Abraham was actually a pretty good helper... better than Mommy. I couldn't lift much at all!

He LOVED the moving truck!

First night in the new house -- without heat!! Can you see the icicles on our noses?? (as Abraham put it!)

Baby Ragan -- 13 1/2 weeks

2009-12-06T21:56:00.003-05:00

We had a more in depth sonogram this past Friday at GBMC hospital where the boys were born. They were looking for anything that might be out of the ordinary with this baby. An answer to prayer- Baby is growing absolutely perfectly with all his/her parts and nothing extra! We are thankful that this is another item off the list of "to-think-abouts". Praising the Father for His continued care of me and this Baby.

This picture below is actually a 3D picture of Baby. If you look closely, you can sort of see that it's an aerial shot and Baby's right arm is up by his head. The bright white spot is about where his belly button would be. There are eye and ear buds forming. It is absolutely amazing to me that they can see all the parts when Baby is only about 3 1/2 inches long! What an amazing Creator God we have!

13 1/2 weeks along - 3 1/2 inches long

Santa Claus visits Giant food stores!

2009-12-06T21:53:00.001-05:00

Abraham and I went food shopping today at Giant and look who we ran into on our way into the store!!! Abraham climbed right up in his lap and started talking away! This Santa actually had a personality and went right along with Abraham's nonsense! He was a happy boy!

Remembering Moses and celebrating new life

2009-12-02T21:42:00.002-05:00

Four years ago today, we released Moses to the loving care of our Heavenly Father. It is something that I would never wish on any parent. The loss of a child, no matter how old, is devastating. It's nothing that you can ever get over. Nothing that you can ever forget. But you know what... I don't WANT to get over or forget him. It's the remembering that keeps Moses' life and memory alive to me.

For the past 2 months, there has been a little boy at school named Jackson. Jackson is 8 years old and has Downs Syndrome. The first day I met Jackson I bent down to say hi and he responded by giving me a bear hug. In an instant, I felt this was my touch of heaven from the Father. It was as if Moses was hugging me. Today, Jackson was taken from our school to move with his mother to another state. My touch of heaven is gone. It seems ironic to me that Jackson is gone on this day. I don't know but I kinda feel that God had Jackson at RFE for ME. That he was there to get me through today, specifically. There were many days I'd look at Jackson and smile, something he did that made me laugh. He is a sweet little boy.

I don't know how much truth there is to that -- but that's what I'm believing today. Proof to my sad mommy heart that HE knows my emotions and cares.

Today I remember and honor Moses' short life --- and I celebrate the new life that the Father has allowed to grow within me!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2009-11-26T11:28:00.002-05:00

Abraham and I are enjoying a relaxing, lazy Thanksgiving morning today. We slept in, made a breakfast of eggs and pancakes and have been watching the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade for the past 2 hours. It has been a nice morning, although Daddy isn't with us cause he went fishing :( We are missing him. But Abraham and I have been talking all morning about those things that we are thankful for. Here are a few things that have come up in conversation:

- clothes
- house
- healthy heart
- eyes, ears, mouth
- toys
- friends
- our family
- our new baby!
- Daddy and Momma
- Abraham
- strong muscles
- food
- Mustangs! :)
- Mommy and Daddy's good jobs

We are eternally thankful for all the blessings that God has given to our family. He is good all the time! We thank HIM for you and for the blessings that you are in our lives.
What are YOU thankful for today??

Prayer Request

2009-11-11T21:13:00.002-05:00

Please pray!

We put a bid on this totally cute Rancher yesterday and are waiting to hear back from the sellers. This house is perfect for us - 4 bedrooms, hard wood floors, great yard, basement, and is in move in condition. Please pray with us that if this is the place God has for us that all will go smoothly. Thanks! :)

Birthday Pictures

2009-11-11T21:08:00.002-05:00

My mom and I went to Picture People today and had Abraham's 4 year old pictures taken. Oh my head! I don't know whose child this is but he was quite the comedian. He had the photographer in stitches! There were quite a few to choose from, of course, but these are the 3 we came away with.

Ahh.. my sweet boy. Where have these 4 years gone? Weren't you just my 4 lb 6 oz baby boy coming home from the hospital? You have grown so much and have become such a big boy. I am proud of the boy you have become. I look forward to many more years of being your Momma! :)

Answered prayers for Stellan

2009-11-09T21:38:00.002-05:00

Unexpectedly this sweet little boy above, Stellan from MckMomma's blog, had to have heart surgery today. His heart completely stopped much to his momma's horror and the doctor decided it was the time to perform surgery to stop his SVT.

What an answer to prayer all the saints got a little while ago when MckMomma posted this post about Stellan's miracle!

Thank you Father for the way that you have met this family in their moment of need and answered their biggest prayers for their sweet boy. You are truly the Great Physician and we rejoice that you saw fit to heal Stellan! Go God!! :)

The Ragan 3 + 1 more in June!!

2009-11-07T22:37:00.002-05:00

Our Heavenly Father has seen fit to bless our family yet again with another baby! We are due in early June - I'm about 9+ weeks now. He allowed us to get pregnant without medical intervention, for which I am very grateful for :) Please pray with us for an "uneventful, normal" pregnancy (whatever that might look like!)

Most recent Sonogram - November 4, 2009

Second Sonogram - October 28, 2009

First Sonogram - October 14, 2009

Happy 4th Birthday Abraham!

2009-11-07T22:24:00.003-05:00

We celebrated Abraham's birthday last weekend at Chuck E. Cheese - kids love it, parents hate it! :)

Abraham's friends from day care were able to come as well as his "best friends", his cousins Alex and Chloe. We had fun playing on all the games and eating chocolate cake. He got lots of great presents -- more cars, just what the boy needs :) It was a fun afternoon.

Daddy and Abraham playing air hockey

Cameron, Abraham and Keagan

Yes, it's MY birthday!

High fiving Mimi - they share a bday so we sang to them both.

James and Nicholas got Abraham this really cool green Mustang that plays "Life is a Highway" which is one of Abraham's favorite songs.

Cousins!

Momma, me and Kari

Family hug :)

Ahoy Matey! Trick or Treating 2009

2009-11-02T21:45:00.005-05:00

We had one busy weekend this past weekend. Grandma Kay and Grandpa John came up to visit for Abraham's birthday. They arrived early Saturday morning and we got to spend some good times with them. Kay went with Abraham and I trick or treating with our friends, The May's. Other than being rained on, we had a great time together!

Nicholas, James and Abraham

ARGHHH! Ahoy Matey!

Abraham tuckered out about 45 minutes into trick or treating. Here he is sitting on this woman's stoop, picking out candy! :)

Grandma Kay braved the rain with us -- she's a good Grandma! :)

The May's cute puppy Molly kissing Abraham

Is this not the CUTEST little pirate ever??

New York City - 2009

2009-10-27T21:38:00.005-04:00

Yet again mom, Kari and I have made our yearly trip to New York City. We had a great time despite the rain all day Saturday. We walked ALL over the city -- what felt like miles! We hit Greenwich Village, Financial District, Wall Street, Central Park, Brooklyn Bridge, Herald Square AND Kari and I managed to squeeze in a show that she won tickets to. Do you wonder why I came home exhausted?? :)

These are some of the pictures from our visit.

Central Park in the Fall

Greenwich Village - the apartment building where Friends was filmed

This is mom VERY happy with how far we had to walk to find the Friends building... NOT!! :)

At Washington Park Memorial - Greenwich Village

The Longacre Theater where we saw Burn the Floor -- GREAT show!

Cameras weren't allowed in the theater so this is our "contraband" photo!

Herald Square

The largest Macy's in the world - 7 floors full of STUFF!

The ever amazing Brooklyn Bridge - so much more impressive in person.

Smiling even through the rain :)

Our framable picture from this trip -- I love these women with all my heart! :)

Jackson

2009-10-19T21:31:00.002-04:00

Today was the first day for a new 2nd grader at our school. He is in the classroom right next to mine. His name is Jackson. Jackson has Downs Syndrome and is autistic. He spent most of his day in the Special Education room with an aide. I saw him in the hallway a few times and found myself staring at him. When I went to lunch, I stopped in the Special Education room. I stooped down and got myself on his level. (He is about the same size as Abraham). I said "Hi Jackson!" Jackson looked at me, got up and came over to me... and out of the clear blue, gave me the biggest bear hug around my neck. Oh my heart! I totally lost it within 5 seconds of his hug. I was in tears and had to remove myself from the room to compose myself. All I kept thinking about was my sweet Moses... this little boy could have very easily been him, with his light blonde hair, being petite... God allowed this sweet little boy, who is non-communicative, to communicate HIS love loud and clear to me. It was my touch of heaven today.

Thanks Father for the physical touch from Jackson today.

Patterson Mill Homecoming Football Game

2009-10-11T21:08:00.002-04:00

Yea, so I'm a bit late with this! But better late than never I guess :)

About 3 weeks ago, the high school where my students go had their homecoming football game. Since this is a milestone year for me (my first class is graduating!) I wanted to go and see these kids play and cheer. The fact that it was homecoming was an extra added bonus!

We took along Alex, my nephew, and he was very excited to go to a REAL football game! Course he thought he could buy a jersey or trading cards with the players on it -- too cute!

Abraham was more interested in playing with some of my former students, girls of course!

We had a great time together... even better cause Patterson Mill won and one of my former 5th graders won Homecoming Queen! Go Stash!

Before we left, Uncle Mike showed Alex how to tie the flies that he fishes with.

Go Huskies!

Alex loved watching the game.. and we DID end up buying him a PMMS shirt!

My sweet Dani girl- she paid her cousin $3 so that Alex could have one of the footballs that the cheerleaders threw into the stands! I had her brother, Anthony, my first and third years of teaching. She has a special place in my heart! :)

Sofie was my student 2 years ago and Abraham attached himself to her throughout the game. He had a good time playing with her.

Abraham and all his girls!

2009-09-08T20:32:00.002-04:00

We went to Barnes and Noble yesterday. Michael checked out the magazines... and Abraham and I headed to the train table in the Children's Section as we always do. Only yesterday Abraham and I were joined by not one, but TWO sets of fraternal boy twins. My heart immediately froze.
If I were being honest, I think about Moses probably every other day. I wonder on a daily basis what it would have been like to have two boys around. But yesterday it smacked me in the face. To add to the slap, as I talked to the one dad, he shared that his boys were born after his wife was on 6 weeks of bedrest at 26 weeks. Man did that strike close to home.
Abraham played with these 4 boys for a good 30 minutes before I could take no more. It just put me in a place of wishing things could have been different. My humanness and perhaps my mother's heart makes me wish that even though he had Downs Sndrome, he could still be with us. I'd give my right arm to have him with us, healthy or not.
Some days are harder than others... yesterday was one of those harder days.

Birthday Treats

2009-09-06T10:24:00.002-04:00

Mom, Kari and I have started a new tradition for our birthdays. Instead of buying gifts and dragging the WHOLE family over to Mom's place to celebrate (you KNOW how much fun that is for the men!), we have decided to have a girls day... DO something together. Last year, we went to NYC for Kari's b-day on her request and had an amazing time together. We went to see the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. We hit Time Square at night and the next day went to the Top of the Rock to have an amazing 360 view of NYC. We ate pizza and went to FAO Schwartz. It was SOO much fun!

Well this year we have decided to to NYC again but this time we want to see a show. 5 Minutes for Mom is having a giveaway for tickets to a Broadway show that looks like something we'd like.

So this year I'm gonna try and win these for us... nothing like a free Broadway show eh? :)

Wish me luck!!

Back to School 2009

2009-08-26T22:07:00.003-04:00

If only I had a student who would do this tomorrow!!

(thanks Mel for the picture!)

Tomorrow is the first day of school for the kiddos and I have to say that I am quite ready to get back to the routine and "normal-ness" of school! I got to meet many of my students tonight at Open House and it just reminded me again of how much I really enjoy my job. I have been entrusted with 24 kids, for 7 hours a day, 180 days of the year -- what an incredible mission field I have! I pray each year that I will be the teacher that these students need and that I will be love them with the Father's love. Tomorrow will be no different...

Naming our boys

2009-08-13T21:51:00.004-04:00

Just today I have stumbled over the blog of a dear sister in Christ who has gone through the heartache of losing a child, as I have. Her blog certainly struck a chord in my spirit as I spent nearly an hour reading through her many posts, all of which have been so encouraging to my mommy heart. One of her recent posts asks about how the names of your children were chosen. I thought this would be something I could do for posterity sake! So here goes...

Michael and I hadn't really thought too much about names in the beginning stages of being pregnanat. I think the shock of parenthood was still on us! We had thought about naming Baby A with an 'A' name and Baby B with a 'B' name but decided that was a bit weird! Once I went on strict bedrest we became more intense on thinking about names for the boys. And once we had confirmation that Baby B had Downs Syndrome, that made it a bit different. I was intent on having names for the boys that had some kind of meaning. Michael thought of the name Abraham. I wasn't so keen on it because it was a BIG name for a little boy (and it means Father of Many.. yikes!) But in the end, I really liked it. Abraham's middle name is Connor which was Michael's grandmother's maiden name.

Moses' name on the other hand was decided a bit differently. Since Abraham had a Biblical name we wanted to give Baby B one too. Michael jokingly threw Moses into the pile with the rest of the possibilities. As I laid in bed for those wonderful (HA!) 5 weeks, I found a meaning of Moses that fit him perfectly -- Created for Special Purposes. I knew that was to be his name immediately. We already knew he had Downs Syndrome but we also found out that he had a severe heart condition as well. We felt (and still feel) that God gave him to us for a reason and that this name would fit him perfectly. What we didn't know was that we'd have to give him back to God so soon after he was born. Moses' middle name is Mackay which is the last name of a singer from a band Michael likes. (Fugazi)

So I guess Michael basically picked out the boys names! But have no fear... if (or when!) God gives us a girl I have a name all ready for her... and NO I'm not spilling the beans now! :)

Chalk the Walks

2009-08-05T22:26:00.003-04:00

I took the kids to Chalk the Walks at our local library last week. I had thought it would be something that they'd enjoy -- well, I was 1/3 right! Alex and Abraham decided it was much more fun to dig in the dirt to see what treasures they could find. Oh well! You can't win them all!

Chloe on the other hand thought it was cool! She and I drew HER together. It was her idea to lay on the sidewalk for me to trace her body outline. I did that and then she and I filled it in to look like her. I had fun with her! Honestly though, she is pretty easy to entertain, especially when it comes to art stuff. Next time we'll just make it a girls day!

Day at the Beach

2009-08-05T22:14:00.002-04:00

Abraham and I spent a day last week at Rehoboth Beach with a friend of mine from school, Theresa and her 2 girls, Sadie and Vanessa. Sadie and Abraham go to the same day care and Theresa and I have been informed that they are going to marry each other! We actually quite approve of the match! :)

We had to take them to the Fun Land for some rides. I made Theresa ride the Teacups with them...

because Abraham had already gotten me on this ride and it went super fast forward and backward and nearly made me sick! :) oye!

They started out on different sides of the ride... then Sadie scooted over next to Abraham.. next thing we knew, Abraham had his arm on the back of the ride and she was sitting right next to him! My little flirt! :)

Goof ball!

Let's Stay Together!

2009-08-05T22:05:00.002-04:00

Eight years ago yesterday, Michael and I made promises to each other that we intend to keep for a lifetime. It was one of the happiest days of both of our lives! What a blessing to marry my best friend, the one that makes me laugh, one that knows just what to say to calm my anxious spirit, my Babe!

We have seen many seasons in our short 8 years together. God has been faithful to carry us through the ups and the downs and to make us even stronger as a couple. It has only been His great love and care for us that has kept us together.

I look forward to many more years spent being with you, Babe, laughing with (and sometimes at!) you, crying with you but most of all just simply LOVING you with ALL my heart.

I Love you more today than yesterday.. but not as much as tomorrow! :)

ps. Let's Stay Together by Al Green is "our" song! We played it as we walked back down the aisle as husband and wife.

Happy Birthday Chloe Abigail!

2009-07-28T21:05:00.003-04:00

My niece Chloe's birthday was this past weekend. After racking my brain, trying to figure out what to get her I finally decided -- NOTHING! I decided to take her out for a "girl day" for her birthday. So we went out yesterday. I took her to this cute little cafe that also has pottery painting on the side. Chloe is quite the artist so this was right up her alley!

She of course chose a giraffe with tons of LITTLE spots on it -- probably THE hardest piece to paint. Unfortunately this giraffe ended up on the floor in 3 pieces :( We couldn't have a BROKEN giraffe for the b-day girl so we started a new one!

Chloe and me with our giraffe twins!

We ended our day with a snow-cone!

I had a great day with her. It is a privilege to live so close to both her and my nephew and to be able to do things like this with them. They were MY kids before we had Abraham.

2009-07-28T20:46:00.002-04:00

It's been a while since we returned from PA and the funeral for my Great Aunt. We (my family) are slowing getting back to normal... whatever normal might be. Simply being home and around those we love without the stresses we had been feeling is so great.

The time we had in PA was good, for all intents and purposes. It's never easy to let go of someone you love so much. But the number of people that came out to honor Aunt Hazel and to remember what an amazing woman she was, was incredible. I mean WE knew she was a generous and kind woman... but it was neat to see that others knew too!

The service was performed by Aunt Hazel's minister and she did a great job. (yes, SHE!) The hope that we have in Jesus was evident in her words and the Scripture that she used was some that my mom had read to Aunt Hazel in her last days.

Many of our family (mostly cousins) from MD and VA were able to drive up and to be with us. It has been a long time since we have seen them, so that was good to visit with them as well.

We will always remember and miss Aunt Hazel but we praise the Father for the confirmation and peace in our hearts in knowing that she had accepted Jesus into her heart only a month earlier. For a woman who lived her 97 years thinking that she was good enough to make it into heaven.... to open her heart and accept and believe HIM a month before she got to meet HIM face to face -- this simply proves to me that GOD'S timing is perfect -- HE doesn't need me to draw someone to Himself -- and it's never too late. Praise Him for His great love and mercy!

Mom, Pat (my grandfather's fiancee), Kari and Me

Kari, Mom and Me

Kari, Pappy and Me

Abraham and Uncle Scott

Life is not measured by...

2009-07-19T20:43:00.003-04:00

the number of breaths we take but by the moments that take our breath away.Maya Angelo
(** This was something that I wrote a few days ago and put on my Facebook page but wanted to include it in this email.
Mom, Kari, Abraham and I will be driving to PA tomorrow for the viewing and funeral for Aunt Hazel. She stepped into the arms of Jesus yesterday. The viewing is tomorrow afternoon and funeral Tuesday morning. We would covet your prayers as we travel and are face to face with the many memories we have of her.
Thank you!
Erinn

Ps. Aunt Hazel told the nurses on Friday that she was going to heaven tomorrow. Guess she was ready!)

Me with Great Aunt Helen (in chair) and Great Aunt Hazel

My Great Aunt Hazel is one of the kindest, most generous women I know. She would give you the shirt off her back - she is always thanking others when they do anything for her. She has a quick sense of humor and can enjoy a good laugh. She has a collection of watches. I don't know if she did it on purpose but she probably has 30! Aunt Hazel has great taste in jewelry. She has been very shrewd with her money and investments. She is a no nonsense kind of woman.

I remember spending time with her and my other Great Aunt Helen during the summers growing up. Kari always stayed with Aunt Helen, playing cards until the wee hours of the morning. Aunt Hazel and I would stay up watching TV then go to bed, only to be up early in the morning. We would go to one of their homes (right across the street from each other) for breakfast. It was the best.

Aunt Hazel taught me to crochet and to do some needlepoint, neither of which I still remember! What I do remember is the crocheted skirt and matching vest she made me when I was about 5 - dark green with a red ladybug on the front of the vest. I was quite the fashion statement!

And I love her with all my heart.

Which is why my heart is breaking to know that she is not well, in fact Jesus will be calling her name very soon. It makes me sad to know that she is alert enough to know and understand all that is happening in her body, how it is shutting down slowly.

Yet in the middle of all my sadness, there is great rejoicing -- yes rejoicing!For all my life, my family has talked about Jesus and lived Jesus to my mom's family - my great aunts, grandparents, uncle. And all my life both of my great aunts have had views on God that just didn't mesh with Scripture. Either they were good enough to get into heaven or everyone went to heaven.

About a month ago, Aunt Hazel was watching a pastor on TV talking about faith. She brought this up to my mom in talking and said that what the pastor was talking about really struck her and she believed. In other conversations that my Mom has had with Aunt Hazel this week she believes in her heart that my 97 year old Great Aunt accepted Jesus that day when listening to the pastor. I mean WOW! What a total God thing. Who'd have thought that for 35+ years we have been talking about Jesus and here, a month before God takes her home, she opens herself to Him!

So tonight I am sad knowing that my sweet Great Aunt is losing her battle -- yet I am rejoicing that her life will begin anew in Heaven with her Heavenly Father.God is good ALL the time and He is faithful to carry out HIS plan in our lives -- even if it seems like He waits until the last minute. His timing is perfect. Thanks Father for the peace of knowing where Aunt Hazel's eternity will lie.

Uncle Scott and Aunt Hazel at our wedding - 2001

Vacation to Georgia

2009-07-18T17:53:00.005-04:00

We enjoyed time with Michael's mom and some of his siblings. I don't think that a day went by when someone DIDN'T get in the pool with Abraham! He is such a water bug! Keeping him out of the pool was hard :)

Swimming with Grandma Kay

Just Chillin'!

Michael's brother Elliott became Abraham's new playmate! They were joined at the hip for most of our time there... and they BOTH loved it! Elliott and his girlfriend Stacy made the "mistake" (I think they meant to!) of mentioning Chuck E. Cheese to Abraham and ended up taking him for a little to play. It was so nice to watch Abraham spend time with his family, especially aunts and uncles that he rarely sees. Makes me wish we lived closer...

The poor cat got chased all around the house by Abraham. He even tried to read to the cat, and that seemed to work!

Elliott's girlfriend Stacy brought her dog Sabre with her. Sabre kept trying to eat Abraham's popsicle and Abraham wasn't having it!

Grandma Kay and Abraham - Grandma Kay took Abraham to his first 3D movie -Ice Age - and to Chuck E. Cheese also. They had a great day together while Michael and I got a day to ourselves. It was nice to get away just the 2 of us and know Abraham was loving on Grandma Kay! :)

Abraham with Grandma Kay and his Great Aunts Susan and Marianne

Aunt Emily and Bubba

Dinner with Emily, Stacy and Elliott

John, Susan Kay, Marianne and Michael

Vacation to Georgia and Florida

2009-07-18T17:37:00.003-04:00

A week ago we got back from our time down south and it's taken me this long to get them up on the blog. Life has just caught up with us and well, we just were along for the ride.

But we did have a really nice time seeing family and enjoying a few days at the beach. Michael's Dad and his wife took us to St. George Island and Appalachiacola, FL. We have been before but it was before Abraham Gramie really wanted to have some time to play with Abraham on the beach. And play they did! Gramie is a GREAT beach partner!

Gramie and Abraham

Gramie, Grandpa and Abraham at St. George Island

Our little family on the beach

We did a little shopping too and found this place - Appalachiacola Sponge Company - and Abraham thought the old scuba gear was pretty interesting!

Grandpa and Abraham admire the pelican :)

Silly boy!

Someone tell that kid you are supposed to SMILE when you are having your picture taken! Sheesh! Such a goof ball! :)

Update on Dad

2009-07-16T16:18:00.003-04:00

So it's been a little while since I have posted anything about my dad -- for the 2 people that read my blog! But for the record and for my own journaling mind.. here goes nothing.

So Dad did have the triple bypass surgery on June 30 and came through it with flying colors. He was released on Sunday, July 5th after passing all the tests that he needed to do. On Monday evening he was drinking a cup of coffee and immediately began to have chest pains. Mom and Kari debated about what to do - weren't sure what was happening but Kari told Dad they were going to the hospital... he agreed but wanted her to take him back to St. Joseph's. She said No, she was taking him to the closer hospital. After getting him down the stairs and in the back of the car, he began to tell my mom that his fingers were numb and he was in a lot of pain.

They got him to the hospital and the doctors hooked him up only to find out he was having a 2nd heart attack (the 1st being the one that put him in the hospital originally) There just "happened" (nothing is a coincidence with God!) to be a St. Joseph's doctor at Upper Chesapeake who performed a catheterization on dad to find that the bypass that they put in for the artery which was 99% blocked had failed. This bypass was the one that they had to splice together. Apparently the body thought it was an injury and tried to heal it but that made the bypass clot and get blocked. The doctor put 2 stents end to end in his blocked artery and that seems to have done the trick.

Dad came home on July 9 from his 2nd hospital stay -- and last for a VERY long time we hope! He is feeling pretty good - doing everything that he is supposed to - walking, using the breathing machine, not using his arms a lot. He is healing well.

Thank you all for your prayers for my sweet Daddy. Things like this put life and what is important into perspective. Makes you reevaluate where your priorities are and where they should be. I encourage you all to make the most of every moment and to take the opportunities that the Father gives you. I... really we, believe that all of these things that have happened with Dad were for a reason and we know that our Father will use them and my Dad's testimony for HIS glory and to touch others. HE is faithful and good ALL the time!

"Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away."

Maya Angelo

Answer to prayer!

2009-06-30T17:00:00.002-04:00

Thanks so much for all your prayers! Dad went in around 1:00PM today and was out by 4:00PM. He did wonderfully and was the model patient (if only they REALLY knew him! :) He'll be in ICU tonight but then tomorrow will be back to the cardiac unit. The game plan is to get him up and moving ASAP to help his leg heal. His recovery in the hospital will be about 5 days before they'll send him home.

I can't tell you what a relief it is to have him out of surgery and doing well! The peace of the Father is an AMAZING thing! Please continue to pray for quick and easy healing and recovery for my Poppa.

Please Pray!

2009-06-30T08:54:00.003-04:00

After experiencing some chest pain and discomfort on Saturday, my mom took my dad to the ER. They saw that his enzymes were high which we later found out meant that he had most likely had a mild heart attack. Dad was transferred to St. Josephs Hospital (one of the top in the state for heart related stuff). The doctors did a catheterization yesterday where they found numerous blockages in his heart. He is tentatively scheduled for bypass surgery today, but for sure by tomorrow morning. This is all very sudden for us all, including Dad who has been the picture of health up until Saturday. No one knew all this was happening.

However, we are seeing God's hand in it all. Had he not been doing some strenuous physical activity and been feeling badly, mom might not have taken him to the ER and it could have been much worse. Dad had NO symptoms of heart attack or anything. The doctor said that 35% of people like dad don't realize they have heart problems until they drop dead... so like I said it could have been 1,000 times worse.

We would covet your prayers during this time. It is certainly unnerving to see your Daddy in the hospital being readied for open heart surgery. Dad says he is at peace with it all -- of course this means no driving the Mustang for 3 weeks and he's pretty PO'd about that one!! :) He'll get over it!

PS-- just got word that they are taking Dad right now - 10AM Tuesday for surgery at noon! pray!!

2009-06-22T22:58:00.002-04:00

Abraham and I had a relaxing day today -- slept in til 10 (him, not me!) chilled at home for a bit, had a picnic at the playground, came home and chilled while watching a movie together... ahh, this is the life!

Is that not the SWEETEST face you've ever seen?? :)

I SAID CHEESE now TAKE the picture!!

Abraham loves the sand almost as much as he loves the water!

Hard at work

Kelly and Tony's Greek Wedding

2009-06-22T22:16:00.003-04:00

This past weekend we had the privilege of celebrating the marriage of a good friend of my sister's (and she has become one of my friends as well) Kelly and Tony were married in the Greek Orthodox Cathedral in Baltimore and had their reception at the Walters Art Gallery. It was A-Mazing let me tell you! The traditions and culture in the Greek ceremony was really cool. Granted much of it was in the Greek language but still the whole aura of the church and everything was neat.

Then we (Joel, Michael and I) had to find our way through Baltimore, through a parade to find the art gallery. It was pretty stressful but once we got there and were able to nibble on some food we were better. The art gallery is pretty neat -- and since it was closed for us, we got to check out some of the art first hand.

The dinner was in the cafe area and again I say A-Mazing! What a grand, romantic place to have a reception! Let's see.. from the open bar, to the chocolate fountain, to the artists who drew a characature as your favor, to the filet mignon.. it was just a really incredible night. We had a good time just being adults and enjoying being out.

Unfortunately, the men (ahem!) were over the whole wedding thing and wanted to leave before the party REALLY got started but that was okay because the shoes I was wearing were K.I.L.L.I.N.G. my feet. Oh the price of beauty!

Here are a few of my favorite shots from the night...

The happy couple - Tony and Kelly

Their cool cake toppers -- Kelly had them made to look like them! It is TOTALLY Tony!!

The best looking couple there!

Yea, they were pretty good looking too!

This has got to be one of the BEST pictures we have taken together!

Love you sis!!

2009-06-18T22:28:00.001-04:00

Tip of the Day:

Don't let your kids have the camera!

You never know what you might find on there later!

Fishing day in Havre de Grace

2009-06-18T22:10:00.002-04:00

Okay so my sister is calling me the queen of fun things to do with the kids... not sure about that title, however a few weeks ago I did hear about this Fishing Day in Havre De Grace and signed all the kids up for it. It was put on by a local funeral home of all things and sponsored by the Lions Club. Each kid got their own fishing rod and had dibs at the pond which was stocked with fish.

We got there a bit late and caught zero fish but had a good time none the less! It was cool to have Michael along to help us with the wormies and to show Alex (and me and Kari!) how to cast the rods! Being able to spend time with 5 of my most favorite people on earth is heavenly!

Oh, and while my sis may have a nickname for me... I have one for her -- Queen of the Camera! She took some fantastic shots that day and I have "stolen" them for my blog. Sorry sis!

Chloe was a brave girl, holding the wormies!

Um... what IS in here??

They feel tickly on my hand! :)

Ohhh... it's a wormie!!

Papa showing his boy the fine art of fishing...

Abraham doing his own thing with his version of a fishing rod!! One of these days he'll fish with Daddy!

I must say I was pretty proud of my sis and Chloe for stepping outside of their girl comfort zone -- course I DID have to put the worms on the hooks for them both!! :) HA!

Me and my boy

(def. my sister's picture, and one to frame!)

You may think I'm crazy...

2009-06-18T22:01:00.003-04:00

The cat at Michael's work had kittens about 3 weeks ago so Abraham and I had to go down to check them out! Michael and I have been tossing around the idea of taking one home with us when they are able to leave their momma. After seeing Abraham's eyes light up, I'm pretty sure at least one of them will make their way home with Michael one day... if not TWO! When asked, Abraham told us he was taking TWO home with him.. and made a point to tell us WHICH ones too! So I guess after vacation, we'll be needing a litter box!

And for those of you who know me well, know that I am allergic to cats! So yes, I am crazy for trying this out. But I have some information about keeping the dander down that may help... gosh, I hope so!

I like the tan and white one in the back!

We just gotta teach Abraham how to hold them.. not by the neck and not by the belly! :)

He liked this tan one too!

These two will be making their home with us in the next month or so...

Happy Birthday Daddy!

2009-06-18T09:19:00.005-04:00

Abraham and I decided to tackle making a gift for Michael's birthday this year. He has been needing a magazine box to hold all of his fly fishing magazines. Abraham and I had a good time painting it and putting the fishies on it too.

The finished project -- a very proud boy and a happy Daddy!

Happy birthday Babe! Abraham and I love you whole-la-butz and we are so blessed to have you in our lives! We'd be lost without you!

School's out for the summer!

2009-06-12T23:10:00.003-04:00

The 2008-2009 school year is officially over --- and my summer has officially begun! Yahoo! Can you feel the joy radiating from my face??

Each year before I send my students off on the last day of school, I take a minute to reflect on the year and on all the memories that we made together... some good, some not so good. I take a moment to look at that one child that gave me heck all year long and I see him/her through different glasses. Before they leave my room, I make it a point to give each student a hug (yes I HUG them! Even the boys who think they are too cool for a hug from Mrs. Ragan!), to tell them how glad I was to have been able to spend the year with them and to wish them a safe and relaxing summer. Today was no different. But I pulled that one child aside, you know the ONE.... and I looked him in the eye and told him that I was glad he was in MY class this year and that I thought he was a great kid. The shine in his eye and the smile on his face made my day. :)

Here is what makes this job worth it: the hugs and smiles from the kids, the notes from the kids that say I am the best teacher ever, the notes of thanks from parents who have appreciated all the hard work that goes into teaching their children, the tears on some students faces when they realize the school year is over and they are moving on to a different grade. I love what I do and I get great satisfaction in knowing that I have had the privilege of touching nearly 100 little lives each day.

On the other hand -- I sure do LOVE my summer vacation! I know that many don't get the break that I get in the summer. I am sorry but that is definitely one of the perks of this job. However, don't get me started on how many hours OUTSIDE of school I work... and how many EXTRA hours I spend at work... I figure I deserve the summer OFF!

We don't have a lot planned for this summer. We three are taking a road trip to Georgia to see family and to go to the beach in FL. Abraham and I will be joining some good friends for a beach trip. We plan on doing some fun things with my sister and her two kids. All with maybe a few weekend trips to the beach for us three. I don't know.. we'll just take it sleeping in day at a time... and we'll love every second of it!

Don't be hatin'! (as one of my kids told me the other day!)

Forgive me a minute whilst I TOOT my own horn!

2009-06-07T21:38:00.005-04:00

About 12 weeks ago, the staff at my school started a Biggest Loser weight loss group, led by our gym teacher. So once a week, he had some sort of activity for us to do and then we were on our own with exercise for the rest of the week. We weigh in on Fridays and if we were the same or more than the previous week we owed $1. It was really motivating for me to have co-workers and friends to be doing it with me -- losing weight right along side of me.

We wrapped up this past Friday and I am pleased to say that I lost just over 10 lbs, and probably at least an inch or so all around! I have been much more active and motivated to get moving... more than I would have been on my own. I'm really grateful that our gym teacher started this!

A good friend of mine Mel, had been keeping up with me and my loss... she had been doing WW and was VERY successful. She encouraged me to sign up to do a 5K race with her. I fought it and fought it until I just decided that I had nothing to lose and everything to prove to myself. So this morning found me at the Bel Air Town Run, along with Mel and 3 other teachers from RFE.

Now, I'm not a runner but let me tell you... I ran more than I thought I would! I got through the whole first mile without stopping! But when I stopped and did my speed walking I heard a voice behind me cheering me on and telling me to keep moving. A girl that I knew from elementary school (actually she was in my sister's class -- her brother was in mine and was one of my good friends!) was behind me. Katy was so positive and encouraging that I KNOW she was the reason I ran as much as I did. It was nice to have her side by side with me.

My goal was to not die on the course :) to not crawl over the finish line and to do it in under an hour. Well, I did better than that! I didn't DIE and I actually ran over the finish line with a final time of 39:39 ! Yahoo!! Forgive me a minute if I toot my own horn -- GO ERINN, GO, GO, GO ERINN!!

Maybe I will be ready for the Under Armor Race in Baltimore in October!

I've got the finish line in sight!

(that's me in the middle, green shirt, hair flying!)

Yea... I'm not crawling across the finish line!

(although the time on the clock is 40:11, my net time was 39:39!!)

Thanks Mel! You ROCK!!

Katy and me
You ROCK too!

The crowd after the race - there were 1069 runners! I was #990!! HA!

RFE Represents! Mary Jane, Mary Lou, Donna and me
We all finished in less than 40 minutes! You GO ladies! :)

A little perspective

2009-06-01T22:01:00.002-04:00

Abraham and I were in Wal Mart this past weekend and I happened upon a rack of Clearance stuff in the boys department. The rack had a collection of different sized clothing. This outfit was one that I took particular interest in. I took it off the hanger and had Abraham hold it for a bit of perspective.

Any ideas what SIZE the outfit is??
PREEMIE (up to 5 lbs -- came home from the hospital at just under 5 lbs)
Yep that's right -- he used to fit in outifts like this, barely! :)
Check him out now! Just ignore the funny face he's making :)

What a BIG boy eh?

We love our CRABS!!

2009-05-24T18:27:00.003-04:00

Each time Scott and Tracy visit, there is only one request made -- crabs! Scott loves them and as you can imagine, doesn't get them in Pittsburgh! So to beat the crowds, we headed out yesterday for our 3 dozen Old Bay seasoned crabs!! Yummy!

Only one problem with getting the crabs -- we have created monsters in our children who have ALL decided that they LOVE crabs, even if they are yucky to look at! :) They practically BEGGED for crabs -- go figure. They were seriously driving us buggy, until Kari sat down with them and gave her 2 kiddos a lesson on how to crack and eat a crab. I wish I had a picture of that one! It was too much!

Funny man trying to help me eat my crab!

My little "crabby monster"
(please ignore my bright red arms - that is what I get for putting sunscreen on Abraham and not me - then sitting out in the sun for 3 hours! DUMB!)

Sucking the meat out of the leg -- it's an art people!! :)

2009-05-24T18:14:00.004-04:00

We spent Saturday at Alex's baseball game. It was the first one that I have been able to get to this year -- and it was perhaps his last (except that the Mariners- his team - beat the Cubs.. and they had beaten the Mariners twice before!)

A good time was had by all watching Alex hit it out of the park! He is a pretty good ball player -- hits like a pro and he sure has an arm on him! He is his father's child :)

Plus my Uncle Scott and his girlfriend, Tracy were able to come down from Pittsburgh to visit. The kids LOVE them and were thrilled to spend time with them both!

Ready to run home

Uncle Scott, Abraham and Tracy

Bottoms up!

Playing with Great Uncle Scott!

Cousin love :)

Happy little man :)

Girls Day/Night Out -- Kenny Chesney Concert

2009-05-24T17:21:00.006-04:00

So, Friday was THE day -- we girls went shopping and Kari and I treated Mom to lunch for Mother's Day. We had a great time just laughing and talking, without the kids tagging along.

Then we headed to Merriwether Post Pavillion to see KENNY!! We left a little later then we had intended but we refused to hurry, since we had seats that no one was gonna take!

Let's just say that the line up getting off the highway was massive... we had to park like 2 miles away (not really but it seemed that way!) and then once we got there we had to wait in a line that was another 2 miles long (for real!).

Now, keep in mind that the last time we were here it was 2 years ago -- and they didn't check bags. They were apparently checking bags this time and we didn't realize it. And as we were standing in the 2 mile long line, there was a sign about cameras. We didn't think anything of it until we got to the gate and the guy looked in our bag, asked if "those" were cameras -- to which we said YES -- to which he said we couldn't take them in. Um.. WHAT?? Do you remember that I said we parked like 2 miles away?? I replied "Since when?" He said something about Kenny questioning the cameras -- what?? Not KENNY!!??

Needless to say, Kari's solution was to hide the cameras in the woods. As we stood there debating what to do... we scooted through since the throngs were pushing us forward and we were very obviously holding things up. We ended up hanging on to the cameras and just decided that we "wouldn't" use them --- that is until we saw the 3,000 other people who smuggled in their cameras using them in plain sight.

Therefore, these would be the few CONTRABAND pictures that we got out of my camera before the dang batteries died on me. :) Oh well, you win some, you lose some!

PS. The show was FANTASTIC!! Kenny sang for nearly 2 hours straight. No wonder he's gotten Entertainer of the Year so many times!!

Some people...

2009-05-20T22:38:00.002-04:00

Forgive me whilst I vent a minute... people who smoke are I.D.I.O.T.S!!

So tonight we are watching the American Idol finale and smelling smoke. We check the stove, dryer, incense... nothing. I walk over to the living room window, which is at ground level and tell Michael that is where I smell the smoke. He immediately jumps up and says "The mulch!" What? Mulch can catch fire?? Well, of course it can -- especially when someone throws a cigarette on it and it's dry!! Holy crap!

We were just gonna throw water on it but after kicking it a bit, Michael saw that it went pretty deep. Enter the Bel Air Fire Department! Needless to say Abraham was very excited. They hosed it down really well -- even let Abraham hold the hose! (missed that picture!)

We have complained about all the smoking and cigarette throwing going on at our apartments for a good year now. Having a "fire" this close to our home, really makes us angry! What the heck?? And you can bet your bottom dollar that I called the office and expressed my concern and unhappiness. Maybe this will get "them" kicked out... I hope so.

GRRRRRRR!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

As soon as Abraham heard that the firemen were coming, he ran to get his hat and his outfit. I managed to get him to only take the hat outside as he watched the water truck and the guy put out the fire! He had an exciting night!

American Idol Finale

2009-05-20T22:22:00.002-04:00

Thank you America for getting it right this season!

I liked Kris from the get-go. If Danny Gokey couldn't win, Kris was my next choice.

Must say that I'm surprised. Thought that Adam would pull more of the votes...

From what I know (that I Googled!) Kris is the worship leader in his church, New Life Church in his hometown. He's been on a number of missions trips. I don't know.. he just seems like a down to earth guy. I pray that he is able to stay true to his faith in the middle of the music industry.

He's BAACCKK!!

2009-05-20T20:18:00.002-04:00

Yes, friends he is BAAACCCKK!!! Yahoo! This Friday Mom, Kari and I are going to see Kenny at Meriweather Post and I am as usual S.T.O.K.E.D!

We are planning on a girls day since Kari and I took the whole day off -- lunch and maybe a movie to treat Mom for Mother's Day.

At any rate... you'll have to check back in for pictures of our day/night!

NICU Reunion 2009

2009-05-20T19:51:00.003-04:00

Each year, the NICU where both of the boys were has a Reunion. This past Sunday Abraham and I went down to GBMC for the Reunion. They had the cafeteria all decorated up in a Hawaiian theme. Totally cute! Abraham had a blast with the hand painting, bubble machine and the toys they had out.

It has been 3 1/2 years since we were in the NICU so I knew very few nurses or doctors. It was a bit different just standing around... but as I looked around the room I started to count all the kids that were there who were helped by the Doctors and Nurses in the NICU and I couldn't help but say a prayer of thanks for them. You know, without the doctors and nurses' expertise and wisdom, our time in the NICU would have been much more difficult. God had us there for a reason and we are grateful for them.

It was a good time to remember how far Abraham has come and how well he is doing. However, it was also a bit bittersweet as I counted numerous sets of twins in the mix. Sometimes it is really hard to not think that I should have been there with two boys, not just one. That I should be able to have two boys living at home with us. I don't feel any resentment towards God but I do often feel a bit wistful, wishing we still had Moses with us. My head knows he is happy and healthy with the angels... but my heart misses my sweet boy.

Don't ask... I don't know WHAT he is doing!! (he is his father's child!)

Spider on his hand

Tippy-toeing through the toys

ROAR!

Our sweet miracle boy -- Man I love this kid!

I must be crazy!

2009-05-18T22:51:00.002-04:00

Okay so it's official... I sent in my $14 check to enter myself into the Bel Air Town Run this year. I must be crazy... I am so NOT a runner. What am I thinking?? I must have bumped my head... for real.

So I asked myself Why? Why give up a perfectly good Sunday to run/walk a 5K race? Why... I guess to prove to myself that I CAN do it... to continue to motivate me to be active. I have been doing really good lately with exercise and eating well. I even have run a bit on the trail by our house.

And besides... a friend talked me into it!! She ran her first 5K a few weeks ago and is also going to do this race here in Bel Air. I figured she neeed the company... and I needed someone to at least start out with. Whether she and I finish together has yet to be seen... but I WILL finish!

I guess this means I should do some more running to train?? Boy does that sound odd coming out of my mouth... anyone want to come and cheer us on??

Mother's Day 2009

2009-05-10T21:52:00.003-04:00

What a great Mother's Day today was! We packed up a picnic lunch and drove up to Havre de Grace, by the water, for a little picnic and some playground time. There is a GREAT playground right by the boat docks. It was beautiful weather -- sunny and warm-ish! We had a great time just being together and enjoying being outside.. or as Abraham says it "I like getting the fresh air, Mommy!"

Then we took Bubba over to my mom's and she watched him while Michael and I went to see the new Star Wars movie... which by the way I'd recommend especially if you liked the older Star Wars show. We ended up our day with Chinese dinner at Mom's. It wasn't our typical Mother's Day but we got family time which is what it is all about anyhow.

And in case you are wondering, I DO plan on treating my Momma good... We girls are going to see "The Man" Kenny Chesney in 2 weeks in concert (can't wait!) Kari and I took the day off and we are going to treat Mom to lunch and a movie.

Trying to get a smile is like pulling teeth!

Silly little man!

Throwing "helicopters" into the river and watching them spin

Me and my man

Sweet boy -- this face is what it is ALL about!

Happy Mother's Day Momma! I love you!!
Me and hubby -- without him I wouldn't be a Momma!

Ever have one of these days...

2009-05-09T00:35:00.000-04:00

5M4M - Mother's Day Giveaway

2009-05-04T22:20:00.003-04:00

It is time for a great giveaway — 5 Minutes for Mom’s annual Mother’s Day Giveaway!

Every year these woman have some amazing prizes that are up for grabs simply for posting and then blogging about it. I have entered a number of these - who wouldn't love a Mini PC, or a Digital Camera... or my favorite, a $300 gift card to any Four Seasons resort!! Yahoo... granted there are close to 1,000 posts on this one, the chances I win are slim to none. But a Girl can hope, can't she?? :)

Check it out and try your hand at winning!

And remember to share with me if you win!

2009-05-03T22:46:00.004-04:00

If you are anything like me, when your child sees another child or even adult with a disability it can become very uncomfortable. I typically don't know what to say when Abraham asks a question, which honestly isn't very often. Maybe at 3 he isn't so aware of it. It does seem that anytime we see someone who has Downs Syndrome, both he and I are almost magnetically drawn to them. And I do think that having a family member with a physical difference has made a difference to him as well.

I was visiting a new blog today by Heidi who has a child with a disability. Her little boy has Cornelia de Lange Syndrome. She posted a link to a great article on Baby Center about how to talk to your 2-3 year old about disabilities. It is definitely worth 5 minutes of your time to read this.

The Scripture that we claimed with Moses - well, really with both boys - came to me as I was reading this today:

Psalm 139:13 - 16
"For you created my inmost being; You knit me together in my mother's womb. I praise You because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Your works are wonderful, I know that full well. My frame was not hidden from You when I was made in the secret place. When I was woven together in the depths of the earth, Your eyes saw my unformed body. All the days ordained for me were written in Your book before one of them came to be."

Better late than never!

2009-05-02T16:39:00.007-04:00

As promised earlier -- better pictures from the March for Babies - March of Dimes walk that my sister, Kari, Abraham and I did last Sunday.

Ready to walk

I make a sign every year -- this years had a Monster Truck theme!

Bubba and KK

Me and my little man

Abraham decided (as he usually does, on his own) that he wanted to send his balloon up to Moses.

Ready.....

Set...

Go!!!

Watching the balloon go up into heaven.

We love you Moses and hope that you enjoy the purple balloon!

Good job Abraham!

Sweet end to a sweet day!

March for Babies - April 26, 2009

2009-04-27T22:16:00.004-04:00

Abraham, my sister Kari and I spent Sunday remembering Moses' life and thanking the Father for the blessing of both boys lives. We particpated in the annual March for Babies walk, raising money for the March of Dimes. This is one of the causes that our family supports fullly because of the personal connection we have with it. It is because of the research and studies that MOD has done that we were able to be informed NICU parents. We are grateful for the MOD and the work that they do to help lower the number of preemies born in the USA.

God gave us a BEAUTIFUL day to walk -- in the 80's and sunny! Abraham contentedly rode in his "limo" stroller, so graciously provided by his KK, for the 4+ miles that we walked. This is something that the 3 of us do together every year - making memories as we walk. It is a sweet time for me to spend with my Bubba and my best friend!

**KK took better pictures and I will post them later...

Abraham with our poster this year.

To honor Moses and To celebrate Abraham

Celebrating Abraham's life

TONS of walkers

Enjoying time with KK

Rock State Park - river time

2009-04-27T21:50:00.003-04:00

This is MY rock! and it was.. he carried it out of the river to the bank - all 5 lbs of it!

I'm wet!

Walking with Daddy

Stop splashing Daddy!

Me and my sweet hubby!

Weekend at the Beach

2009-04-27T21:20:00.006-04:00

Last weekend we had some gorgeous weather so we took off on a Ragan family road trip. We headed to Assateague Island off of Ocean City,MD. We haven't really been down there, at least it has been quite some time. Abraham LOVES and I mean LOVES the beach! We spent a good portion of the day just relaxing and soaking up the sun. Michael bought a pirate kite for us to fly and after a while of trying to figure it out, finally got it up in the air. Abraham loved flying it himself -- although we were a bit fearful that he'd either let go and we'd lose the kite or the wind would pick him up and carry him off! :) It broke on our way off the beach -- guess that is what you get for a cheap kite!

We did walk the Boardwalk and grabbed some dinner in Ocean City. Got us a new kite that will fly and not break! Abraham played on some pretty cool wooden "toys" that are on the beach. We ran our little man all day with no nap so he crashed hard on the way home.

It was a GREAT weekend spent with family!

Surfin' USA!

Collecting Shells

Soakin' up some rays! I love me some beach too!

Abraham wanted to be buried in the sand...

but did NOT want Daddy to put the bucket on his head! Note the frown.

Flying the kite with Daddy

I got it all by myself Momma!

Noah's Ark washed ashore!

Jeep on the beach

In front of The Kite Loft

End of the day ride home

Ahhh! Now THIS is the life! I would live here if I could!

Keep Praying

2009-04-21T22:29:00.005-04:00

I am here tonight to ask you to keep praying with me for a number of things. First of all is sweet little Stellan. He had his very risky heart surgery today and came through it okay. I read McKMomma's post and there is a lot of medical terminology in it -- if you want to know the nitty gritty you can go to her blog yourself -- but the pictures of Stellan afterwards say it all. He is still with us and fighting as hard as ever. Take a moment tonight and thank God for the blessing He has given us in our children -- may we never take it for granted if they are healthy and happy.

Next, Tricia has been admitted to Duke with pneumonia. She had not been feeling quite right and got checked out in the ER. They admitted her and are taking care of her. this of course is not the best thing for someone a year out of a double lung transplant and having CF. Any type of sickness really is dangerous for her and takes a toll on her body. Please pray for Tricia and her health.

These two families are ones that I have "met" in the blogging community, but a bit closer to home is a family from school whose son is in my class. The mom a while back had breast cancer and was treated for it and healed. However the chemo, from what I understand, that treated the cancer, then caused her to get leukemia. She was super sick 2 years ago and then went into remission. They found out about 2 months ago that it is back. It has been a real struggle, as you can imagine, on the family specifically on Dad and the 2 boys (3rd grade and 1st grade).

Yesterday I was blessed to have a 15 minute conversation with the dad as I was coming out of school. I asked him "How are you holding up?" and waited for an answer. Bless his heart, he just wore his heart on his sleeve. This dear brother in Christ is clinging desperately to the truth of God's Word and claiming that for himself and his family -- but the struggle it is to watch the one you love be sick you can't do anything about it, is just heart wrenching. Please keep the Uebersax family in your prayers.

Thinking about all that is going on around me with others lives, makes me think back to a time where I lived off of the prayers of God's children. There was a time, not so long ago, where it was all I could do was put one foot in front of the other. Where my mind just couldn't think straight. Where my heart ached like it had been stabbed a million times. BUT GOD -- in His grace and mercy met me in the middle of that heartache and touched me like no one else could. And because others continually kept us before the Throne of Grace, I will do the same for others who are hurting, scared, and lonely. What you have been given, give back to others.

Thank you in advance for remembering these families with me.

Stellan's heart

2009-04-16T20:10:00.006-04:00

Please join me in prayer for this sweet boy Stellan. He has been having some very severe heart issues recently, He has been transferred to Boston to a top notch hospital and is scheduled for a very risky heart surgery in a few days. I know that his family is trusting the Father with their little one but having the prayers of others would mean the world to them too.

This sweet boy and his family has been through some incredible ups and downs in his short life. Yet even through these times they have clung to the truth that HE knows it all and is in control of it all. We havent't been in the same situation but I know what it feels like to be helpless when it comes to your child's health. Praying for peace in the storm for them.

My Favorite kids...

2009-04-13T22:39:00.002-04:00

Two of my most favorite kids in the whole wide world...

Chloe and ReRe

Always ready for a picture!

Alex and ReRe

(I'm truly surprised he let me take this.. he HATES pictures... but must LOVE me!)

Easter 2009

2009-04-13T22:26:00.003-04:00

Happy Easter from the Ragans!

He is RISEN -- He is RISEN INDEED!

Flowers outside my kitchen window

One of the prettiest things about living here is these trees in the spring! I love how they look! When they start blooming I know that spring is coming!

We took a ride down to the river and walked on the trail for a bit on Easter before heading to my mom's house for dinner. Hit the playground of course and we kicked around Abraham's new soccer ball too. He's pretty good kicking! That should make all his aunts happy!

Personally,, I like the hat over the eyes!! Usually the hat ends up on the ground!

Look guys, I found a ... STICK!!

Learning about ants...

2009-04-13T22:20:00.003-04:00

On one of the nice days we had last week, Abraham and I went outside the apartment and were playing. He was completely taken by an ant that he found on the sidewalk. He tried calling it like he would a dog saying "Here little ant, crawl on my finger!" (course it was a red ant so that probably wasn't the best idea!) I could see the wheels in his head turning as he asked questions about the ants legs and his color and how slow he seemed to be moving. We talked about how God had made ants special and very strong. I just loved watching him watch the ant. Such an inquisitive little boy!

Here ant-y, ant-y!

Look Momma! He's RED!

More playground pictures

2009-04-13T22:15:00.002-04:00

I don't usually take Abraham to Annie's playground because it is SO big and it makes me nervous that I'll lose him! We hit Annie's Playground this day because Daddy was with us. With two sets of eyes, we can keep a better eye on him!

Banging the "drums"

Ride 'em cowboy!

He kept throwing his truck down the slide and then going down after it.

Banging the Alligator "drum"

2009-04-13T22:12:00.001-04:00

A few random playground pictures from the past few weeks. We really DO take the kid outside for "walks"!! This is the proof! :)

Visit with friends

2009-03-28T22:13:00.002-04:00

Last weekend a good friend of mine, Laura and her kids passed through our town on their way home to NC and stopped for a bit to see us and to play at our favorite place, ChickFilA! Laura and I have been friends for... well forever it seems! Since our days at Word of Life back in

1996 -- wow, am I really THAT old?? Anyhow, we got to chat for an hour or so while the kids played. Our time was short but I am SO glad that she called and we were able to meet. This was actually the first time that I had ever met her kids. Anna is 7 and Isaac is 5.

Thanks Haggarty for stopping! It was great to meet your kiddos!

Love you!

Haggarty and Me

Laura, Anna and Isaac

Abraham felt VERY comfortable with Laura. He had met her before and I guess that was all he needed to be right at home with her -- silly boy!

Anna, Isaac and Abraham

My how time flies!

2009-03-28T21:34:00.002-04:00

Abraham (with Daddy) at 2 months old

probably around 5 lbs

Abraham (with Daddy) at nearly 3 1/2 years old

Maybe 30 lbs on a good day, soaking wet :)

Puts things in perspective eh? That's our BIG boy!!

Pray for Stellan

2009-03-25T22:35:00.003-04:00

Please join me in praying for MckMomma (a fellow blogger) and her sweet son Stellan. He has been in the hospital with some very serious heart issues for the past few days, and he seems to be getting worse. Some of you may know Stellan's story but if you don't please check out the link in my sidebar to read their story and for updates on Stellan's condition. If you have a moment to send a prayer for this baby boy, his family and his doctors I know they would greatly appreciate it.

2009-03-19T22:11:00.002-04:00

Abraham and I show our true colors on St. Patty's Day!

Day at the Baltimore Zoo

2009-03-14T17:20:00.005-04:00

We took Abraham to the Baltimore Zoo today. It was their opening weekend and the admission was only $7. It was a bit on the chilly side but not enough to put a damper on our day. We weren't there all day, which was perfect! We saw all sorts of animals but took few pictures of them -- oops! What a great place to get a workout -- tons of hills -- and when you are carrying a 3 year old (since we decided to NOT bring the stroller) it really works you out!

Daddy and Abraham in a bear trap

Checking out the rhinos

Abraham thought it was hilarious to cover Daddy's eyes when he was on his shoulders.

Momma and Abraham got to feed Angel the giraffe. It was cool!

Angel the giraffe

She was so beautiful and huge!

Riding the lion

Weekend at the Susquehanna River

2009-03-14T17:10:00.003-04:00

I think there are ROCKS in here!!

Yup, there they are!

Playing with his pinwheel in the mud

"I think I need to go home. Momma.
Why Bubba?
Cause I'm DIRTY!
But it's okay for little boys to get dirty, Bud!
Oh... okay, never mind!"

I'm gonna get you Momma!!

2009-03-14T16:59:00.003-04:00

The weather did clear up after all that snow and gave us GREAT weather, last weekend! We met my sister, Kari and her crew, Alex and Chloe at the playground. The kids ran crazy for over an hour while we just hung out and chatted. It was great! Our kids (and us too!) are so blessed to live close enough to each other to hang out and play together.

Such sweeties! They love playing together.

Abraham and Alex

Chloe shows off her "masterpiece" -- a sand castle!

What fun... and what a sandy mess when they got out! Oh well!

Momma and Abraham -- as usual he didn't want his picture taken! :)

Mimi joined us for a bit too!

Two versions of a snow day

2009-03-02T11:12:00.003-05:00

Abraham and Mommy's version of a snow day.

YEA!!

Daddy's version of a snow day

Zzzzzzzzzzzzzzz......

That's what happens when you leave for work at 12:30AM and get home around 9:30AM only to leave again 30 min. later. Poor Daddy :(

Jump On It Fun Center

2009-03-02T00:14:00.003-05:00

My sister and I took the kids to a really cool place to get their energies out - Jump On It Fun Center. It is super cool with tons of blow up, jumping things. We went today for open bounce from 3:30 - 5:00 and the kids literally played from the second we got in until just before 5 when we packed it up to go home. Whoever thought of this place was a genius! For a measely $6 a kid Abraham, Alex and Chloe were occupied, getting their energy out and having a good time! Parents can play for free - but thankfully for us the kids didn't need us around the whole time. We did get our cardio in however, jumping with them!

So the next time you are looking for something to do with the kids when they have been in the house too long because of snow days... check it out!

Yes, even I got into it!

Abraham and Chloe stop for a minute to pose

Spread eagle down the slide

Big Boy didn't need Momma this time!

Running fools!

Chloe girl loved it too!

KK and Bubba trying to stand in the the jumper!

It's a family affair! :)

Video link to check out -- Hopkins Childrens Center

2009-02-28T22:08:00.004-05:00

Last night WMAR TV channel 2 in Baltimore donated an hour of air time to the Hopkins Childrens Center. They featured a number of children and families from all over the country and their stories. One of those stories struck home with me. It was of a sweet baby girl named Olivia who had a heart condition that was treated at Hopkins. As I watched I was awestruck because not only was one of the doctors featured, Dr. Luca Vricella, Moses' doctor but also the initial doctor that explained Moses' condition, Dr. Joel Brennan, was featured.

It took me back to our days at Hopkins ... our short 4 days that seemed like a lifetime. I remember it all. I don't want to forget. Although it was a painful time, I wouldn't have traded it for the world. I am blessed to have had the opportunity to meet the doctors and Child Life specialists in the Children's Center.

Check out this link to the video of little Olivia and as you watch it, would you thank the Father with me for Dr. Vricella and Dr. Brennan and the wisdom HE has given them to treat the smallest patients.

Would you consider donating to a great cause?

2009-02-28T20:58:00.005-05:00

This weekend is a Radio-a-thon put on by a local radio station MIX 106.5 This is the 20th year they have raised money for Johns Hopkins Childrens Center. They have raised millions for this amazing hospital, right in Baltimore. Hopkins happens to be close to our hearts as well because Moses was treated there as well as my niece Chloe after her accident nearly 3 summers ago. Both of our kids have received amazing care at this wonderful hospital -- many children from all over the world have received treatment here too.

Would you consider joining me in donating to this great place? My school is again this year raising money for the kids at Hopkins. Over the past 2 weeks they have raised over $300 and we are going for one more week. This money goes directly to the kids and their needs -- toys for their play room, DVD's, music, books puzzles -- it also goes for the parents who have to spend time with their children in the hospital. They use the money to buy sleep chairs for the parents so they are able to stay in the room with their kids. Trust me (or my mom and sister), sleeping on the waiting room chairs or the "bed-chairs" they have is not the best nights sleep you can have. The money raised is also used for special NICU incubators or ECMO machines for the kids there.

Bottom line -- the money goes for great things when it comes to these kids. The radioathon is done tomorrow, Sunday the 1st of March. If you have a chance, please call in and give something to the kids - anything, no matter how small, gets put towards making their stay a more pleasant one.

Call 1-800-823-1065 or visit Hopkins Childrens Center to make an online donation

The kids and I thank you!

First trip to the Dentist

2009-02-28T20:48:00.002-05:00

This past Friday was Abraham's first visit to the Dentist. We have been preparing for this day by reading The Bearensteins Bears go to the Dentist for a month! Since Daddy really dislikes the dentist, this was definitely Momma's thing!

Abraham did such a fantastic job! He didn't cry -- didn't flinch -- opened wide for Miss Jennifer and for Dr. Neal. I was totally amazed since I thought there would be somewhat of a fight - but nothing!

We got to enjoy a day together afterwards - met Mimi and G-dad for lunch at our favorite, Chick-fil-A and hit Target too!

In the waiting room

Momma and Abraham in the chair - he wouldn't sit without me!

All done and happy! Cheese!!

Big Boy

From Abraham's Perspective

2009-02-22T20:04:00.002-05:00

This is what happens when Abraham gets ahold of our camera.

Playlist.com -- Listening to Kenny Chesney

American Idol and Momma's slippers

Biggest Loser DVD

Cutting Daddys' hair - can't believe he got us in the frame!

Cars in his dump truck

Mommy cutting toenails

TV and Daddy's fish