The Michele Family

It's my Birthday!!!!!

2011-03-17T22:17:00.007-04:00

We had a great birthday party for LP...all the way back in November, lol..... looking back at the pictures definitely brings back happy memories- we all had fun!

LP showing cousin Chase the piano

Grandpa, Grandma and LP with yummy cake

this is pretty good....

Grandma, Aunt Ceil and Uncle Phil

Happy birthday to you, happy birthday to you....happy birthday to michael, happy birthday to you!!!!!!

love you!

great grandpa and lp

michael's jungle animal cake!

a little chilly- but playing outside on the bouncer

mommy made this cake for me- vanilla cake- yummy!

oh, lots of toys!!

Uncle Rob showing lp how to play the piano!

making the cakes the night before- fun with aunti kimi!

I LOVE GRANDPA!

2011-03-17T22:16:00.005-04:00

I LOVE GRANDPA SO MUCH!!!!!!!!

halloween 2010

2011-03-17T22:00:00.006-04:00

Halloween was all about our little Yoda this year- we had such a good time trick-or-treating, playing with friends and pumpkin picking with james and juliana!

sideways- but still cute

trick-or-treat at grandma's house

lp's 1st halloween!

halloween with friends Kaiden and Yvette

pumpkin picking!

my very own little pumpkin

can I eat this?????

juliana, james and lp

cousins :)

Fall pics 2010

2011-03-17T21:56:00.008-04:00

Tons of new pics...and we still have so many- but I need to catch up a little at least....we really had a great fall with our little guy...but he did burn his hands, they have healed nicely, (I prayed a lot)- our little baby is growing into a little boy...crazyhow so much happens in 1 year...

hmmm, what do i want for breakfast?????

time to clean the floors

tupperware time....this happens everyday....

playing at Yvette's 1st birthday party!

a castle cake, just for me???

One of mommy's fav pics

climbing in the clothes container at the store- getting into everything

lp and juliana- wrestling!

playing with my blocks- with my gloves on to protect my healing hands

playing with juliana

grandma, aunti kimi and mommy with lp at the duck pond

smile :)

great grandma and great grandpa-
enjoying family time!

lp with aunti kimi and mommy- getting a little squished!

at the duck pond

LP waiting for the bath- he LOVES the bath and we LOVE a clean little boy!

tupperware, pots, tupperware, pots....this is much louder!

LP goes to Vermont!

2010-11-25T10:01:00.007-05:00

We visited aunti kimi and uncle Rob in September! Had such a fun weekend- Michael was almost walking, very exciting!

Aunti kimi and lp

lunch time!

We went to the wineries up north- had a great time and drank tons of wine- yummy!

beautiful green mountains!

in the corn maze

oh, can I climb this?????

our little child of the corn!

happy newlyweds!

daddy and lp walking the maze

yummy wine-

outside kim and rob's new home- with cousin Lupe!

so much fun!

Burlington's Farmer's market-

Walking on the ferry- going to see aunti kimi!

Lp's 1st ferry ride!

so much, as always...

2010-10-08T07:54:00.006-04:00

I'm finding it harder and harder to find time to do anything...and I only have 1 baby! My cousin Dawn- with 5 yr old and 1 yr old twins, seems to have everything under control (seems!), friends around the country- with a few kids...still get everything done...ahhhh, boo-hoo.....

ok, now i am ready to get going...time to stop feeling life is overwhelming...sometimes it is, but mostly it is not :)

NEW THINGS IN OUR LIFE

good and bad

Michael is now 11 months (tomorrow)- the year has just gone so quickly, as everyone said it would. He has been walking for 4-5 weeks now, everyday getting stronger and steadier. He still trips a lot, poor little legs have some bruises, yesterday, he reached for a toy, missed and bumped his head.... it's amazing how these little bruises come and go almost on a daily basis.

He is mostly eating table food, sometimes baby jar food if he is fussy or we are out on the go.

He is approx- 19-20lbs and I think about 29 in tall-

we go see the dr next month for 12 month checkup!

He had his first major injury- he burned both palms on the inside oven door- 1st/2nd degree burns- took him to pediatric urgent care, ER and now he is following up with burn dr every week. we saw the dr yesterday, he said the blisters look perfect and he is healing nicely. Ralph and I clean and re-dress the palms 2x a day and I took his old socks, cut little thumb holes and he wears that over the bandages to keep them intact. He is playing like usual- this has not slowed him down a bit!

As for the house, we are adding an addition to build a larger apartment and converting the house to a mother-daughter- I am very much looking forward to this...hopefully it will be done early spring. I am so ready to get things in their place so we can just start living our lives without this headache!

Ralph has started a new job, in NYC. He has a long commute, but enjoys being in the city...although- really misses his old schedule and being home with Michael for a few days at a time. He has a lot on his mind- work, family, house projects, LP's 1st bday party, LP's healing hands????

as for me----I have been working a lot at a rehab near home, I love it there and Michael goes to childcare there 2 days a week. He does really well there and I love that he is interacting with other children around his age. I wish I had time for the gym...but LP and I have been walking a lot in the neighborhood. I have been tired lately...went to bed last night at 8:30!- I was asleep in seconds!!!!

I definitely have more pics to post, last month we visited my sister in Vermont and had such a great time.

side note- just put Michael down for morning nap and he is sleeping with a grapefruit, so funny, I wish I had my camera

pics to come!

this kid is just too funny!!!!

2010-09-16T20:28:00.004-04:00

We are playing in his room- michael pulls out his basket, of course takes all the clothes out..then dives right in!

One of my most favorite pics!!!

haha...legs going a mile a minute!

ok, figuring it out

i'm in, now eating my shelf!

oh, how do i get out?????

ahhh, just tip it!

Mommy didn't help me at all!!!!

oh, so much this week!

2010-08-31T22:34:00.004-04:00

We visited with grandma and grandpa!

LP lost his mobile today! It was attached to the inside of his crib and he loves watching it, well, now that he is standing, he is starting to grab it and pull...he might just break it!

So, i thought I could attach it to the outside, so he still gets the music and can see it....but, he really just reached over and grabbed the animals..therefore, he lost the whole thing...it is now in the basement packed away for baby #2!

Our little gardener!!!loves bushes, flowers plants, grass!!!

lounging away....

daddy and LP- observing a beautiful yacht!!!!

Ern and Aaron visit from florida!

2010-08-13T21:48:00.012-04:00

Ern and Aaron came to visit us ..we had such a great time...a very busy week to squeeze everything in! They enjoyed the Bronx Zoo, Splish Splash, a day in NYC to see the broadway play "Lion King" with Ralph's mom, boating with my parents and many BBQ's and pool time!

Bronx Zoo

Alison, Ralph, Michael, me, Barbara, Julianna, Aaron and Ern

oh, Sophie with her real friend...giraffee way in the background!

Julianna with Michael and his new snake

Michael watching the sea lion show!!!

Aaron

Mommy and Michael

Michael eating Sophie's head!

mommy, daddy and baby!

Having fun at the zoo!

Playing at home!

Ern and Michael

Ern, Aaron and Michael- so cute!

pool time with the noodle

two little fish in the pool!

lots of toys for the little guy!

aaron

Boat Day- Barbara and Aaron

Grandpa and Michael with some watermelon!

hmm. What's this?

yum...I think, still thinking about it???

Yep- he loved it!

out on the water

went to fire island- had so much fun!!!!!!

the boys

mom and aaron braving the waves...I actually think Aaron was holding my mom up!

wipeout for everyone-

mom barbara, Aaron, Ern and me

so much fun!

Awesome picture!!!!

All that fun and LP slept like a champ- 2.5 hrs...grandpa was on baby watching duty-

back in the calm bay...floating with the noodles

playing off the boat! so sunny and warm and fun!

Lp, up from the nap and back in the water- Little Fish!

Ern, Aaron, Michael and mom barbara

Ern tubing- great way to end the day!

Such a great week together- just a snip it of all the fun!

love this little guy!

2010-08-11T21:52:00.003-04:00

There he goes... up the step and down the porch!

Cooperstown!!!!

2010-08-11T21:22:00.005-04:00

In July- we went to visit friends Linda and Marcelo upstate NY and visited Cooperstown for the weekend! We had such a great time...always so nice to get away and see friends we haven't seen in almost 2 years!

Michael hamming it up at Baseball Hall of Fame!

mommy and Michael at hall of fame

our little Yankee fan---all tuckered out!

at one of the many bat stores!

We stayed with Linda and Marcelo...found Michael under the table..

of course, with the cords!

just fits!

more!

yummy!

i love dogs!!!

Michael was licked up and down by the 3 big dogs- he loved it!

Linda, daddy and Michael petting the pups!

Michael holding his very own bat!

Proud papa! we visited double day field at cooperstown and caught a foul ball in the parking lot! LP's first foul ball at 8 months!

so cute!

Happy Family at Double Day Field!

lake in Cooperstown

Just beautiful, calm and relaxing!

Sarah and Estelle visit!

2010-08-11T21:17:00.004-04:00

My good friend Sarah visited us from New Zealand---we graduated high school together...oh, so long ago! So much to catch up on! Estelle and Michael are about 1 month apart- crazy coincidence after so many years!

Sarah and Estelle

Sarah, Estelle and Michael

Great July pics

2010-08-11T21:10:00.006-04:00

oh, our little ham!!!!

playing with the baskets

love my toys!!!!!

mommy and Michael after bath time!

bath time!

Pool Party!!!

2010-07-11T22:05:00.009-04:00

We finally got together...our New Mommies Group from when the babies were just born! There are 5 of us, Jenni, Karen, Karen, Carrie and me, and we haven't all seen each other since Jan! The babies are now 8-10months and they are all sooo cute!

Getting a picture of all was quite fun!

Abby, Yvette, Michael, Kaiden and Ryan crawling away!!!!

Yvette and mommy Carrie

all 5, Abby, Yvette, Michael, Kaiden, Ryan

There they go...done with pictures!

Abby and Ryan playing!

Abby and mommy Karen

Pool time

Michael and daddy (and his noodle!)

Ryan splashing

Yvette and daddy

Yvette and mommy Carrie

cooling off...lots of splashing!

mommy and Michael!

We really had a great time....always so nice to see everyone...we really look forward to the next get together!

Lunch Time!

2010-07-11T22:00:00.004-04:00

Michael is normally a pretty clean kid when he eats...not today!!!
We were trying to get him to eat some beans...so we had beans, then mixed veggies and some of my homemade corn puree...we had to sneak the beans in and he just attacked all the bowls...
yes, he eventually ate all of it!

our little explorer
smile...another pic!

Yummy!!!!!

fun pics!

2010-07-11T21:52:00.005-04:00

Our sweet boy! playing in the morning with grandma.

We love morning time. Michael gets up about 6:30ish, has breakfast at 7ish, then plays till 8am, then naps for 1.5-2 hrs!...We love nap time too!!!!

Bath time!

We visited friends Neal, Rachel and Davis...Michael loved Davis' toys- especially the toy cars!

Michael and daddy at the beach again!

Happy 4th of July!!!!

2010-07-08T21:23:00.006-04:00

we had a very relaxing 4th of july!!! a little shopping, BBQ, swimming, and of course dressing him up!

i think i can stand with this...let me try

oh, no, where did michael go????

playing in the pool! he loves the noodles!!!

James and Juliana came over to celebrate..of course, Michael was crying...again!
Juliana is soooo sweet in her beautiful dress!! so happy we have a little girl in the family!

here, michael crying on the ground, and set off J and J! It's always great having all 3 cry...for no reason...

Grandpa's Birthday

2010-07-08T21:05:00.007-04:00

Happy Birthday Grandpa!!!

We spent the day on my parents boat, rode out to fire island and played on the beach...such a beautiful day, about 75*, no humidity, lots of sun and fun!

Grandpa and Michael

Grandpa and Michael looking out to sea!

we had such a great day!!!

at almost 8 months, Michael had his 1st taste of chocolate... a little bit of Grandpa's birthday cake! He loved it and definitely wanted more...had to cut the kid off! I wonder if he got Grandpa's and mommy's sweet tooth...

1st time on the beach all summer!

lunch on the beach, fruits and veggies

(a little better than chocolate!)

Not a happy camper..boater, haha...- did not like the life vest, but we explained how important it was..he got over it and wore it happpily!

Grandma and Michael- getting ready to go to the beach!

playing at the beach. Michael loves the water and sand-

and these waves didn't knock him over!

loving his little buggy!!!!

2010-07-08T21:02:00.002-04:00

lounging in his PJ's

There's our happy boy!

Michael's first Yankee Game!!!

2010-07-08T20:54:00.004-04:00

On July 1st, we took Michael to his first yankee Game, Yankees vs Mariner's...Yankees won, great game, Seattle holds such a special place in our hearts! Michael slept the ride in, played during the game, and slept the whole way home...what a good boy!!!!!!

Go Yanks!!!!

Got my Yankee bink!

mommy and michael...my sweet little boy!

Chubby cheeks- not sure what he thinks of the stadium yet...

our little guy is 7 months!!!!!

2010-07-08T20:18:00.006-04:00

Micahel was 7 months on June 9th! He is just growing like a weed! Bringing the entire family so much happiness. At 7 months, he weighed 17lbs, 3oz and was still 27.5in long. Dr Desanto says everything looks good, even though he didn't gain any height...so I guess we will see what happens next month.

Michael going for a ride in the john deere with friends Noah and Brady

there he goes...

What a cute pic! The boys were so good with him. Noah put the speed to low and went extra slow so michael wouldn't bounce out!

Michael and his new toy...a ride along car, he absolutely loves it. Grandma takes him for rides every morning!

waking up from a great nap!!!!

getting ready to go to Disney!!!

2010-06-15T22:44:00.003-04:00

playing in the suitcase while mommy is packing!

so much fun!

can't wait to see Kamala, Ern, Aaron, Vicky, Keith and boys, Maddux and brother!

Here I come Mickey and Minnie!

LP goes to St Augustine Beach!

2010-06-15T22:33:00.006-04:00

Loving the sunny beach day!

Thanks Keith!

the very little wave...pushed me right over!
mommy came to my rescue!!!

LP loves the sand...

visiting our cousins!

2010-06-15T21:59:00.010-04:00

We spent our last day in Florida visiting our cousins, Kamala, Ern and Aaron. So nice to see them since we haven't seen them since Christmas. We went out to lunch and played in the park!

Ern and Aaron
Michael's 1st carousel ride!

What's he doing??? He is so squirmy!

our little love bug!

6 months old and 1st time on the swing! He loved it!

The boys--who can get higher!

Ern, Aaron, Ralph and Michael

mommy and Michael

Kamala and Michael

Aaron, Kamala, Ern and Michael

we had so much fun in the park!

daddy with mr. serious!

ralph, aaron and lp

Happy little boy! such a great day!

playing at home!

splashing around!

2010-06-15T21:55:00.005-04:00

daddy and michael - both had tons of sunblock on!!!

brother swimming like a little fish!

mommy and michael

our little swimmer to be!

Fun in Florida!

2010-06-15T21:44:00.005-04:00

courtney, ralph, michael, maddux, keith, brother and vicky

Such a big boy..holding my bottle!

going to dinner at Celebration

The 3 boys....so cute together!

I love my Mickey...and my octopus

playing at the Carregals

little michael----little Darth Vadar!!!

Maddux and Ralph- getting ready to go to STAR WARS WEEKEND!!!!!

Michael's 1st Disney Vacation!!!!

2010-06-15T21:16:00.006-04:00

Hello Mickey Mouse!!!

Ralph, Michael and I visited Walt Disney World with our very good friends, Vicky, Keith and their 2 adorable boys, Maddux and Keith. It really was such a great vacation! Our little guy has just been all over the country (just need to get to seattle!) We visited MGM and Animal Kingdom. Michael was so good every day. The weather was good and the parks weren't too busy. It really is a whole new adventure with little kids, they were just so excited over everything. One of our best trips yet!

MGM

Mommy, Michael, Mickey and daddy

Maddux, Mickey and Keith

us at MGM- STAR WARS WEEKEND!!!

Storm troopers were everywhere!

Darth and other star wars people!

ewoks

the boys with the storm trooper

maddux and keith fighting the evil!

ANIMAL KINGDOM

daddy and michael

our little scuba diver to be!

midday nap!

The Carregals- Keith, Vicky, Maddux and Keith

The tree at Animal Kingdom

I Love Grandpa!

2010-06-09T21:45:00.004-04:00

Lovin' Grandpa!

Michael's Beautiful Christening Day

2010-06-07T21:09:00.009-04:00

Michael Giovanni's Christening Day

May 22, 2010

Our beautiful little boy was christened at St. Patrick's Cathedral in NYC by Father Chris. The christening was perfect! Father Chris spoke for a while on the importance of baptism and Ralph and my role as parents, christians and how we are expected to raise Michael. It was very powerful. It seemed Michael was listening so intently, he was watching Father Chris walk back and forth and was as quiet as a mouse...except when he was baptized with the water...he screamed his little heart out! After the christening, we all headed back home for a great party!

Godparents- Keith and Kim with our little guy!

Grandma and Grandpa at St Pat's

our sign in board our cousin made for us, Thanks Jenn!

my mom, dad and Father Chris

Baptism

Father Chris held Michael up following the christening to welcome him to the church...just like simba in the Lion King...I loved it!

Ralph's mom, Ralph, me and LP

Cousins- Cheryl, Dawn and Aunt Maria

Time to celebrate!

Kim, Aunt Ginger, Charlie and Carley

Ralpha and cousin Isabella

Friends- Lance and Carolyn and Neal, Rachel and Davis

me, mom, dad and kim

Dawn and LP

yep, they are under there- Juliana and James!

Cousins- The Ciaravino's

What's going on in May?

2010-06-07T20:59:00.003-04:00

Lp played on the grass with daddy! He had such a fun time!

The cutest little crocs!

Michael is sitting so well. He can sit for up to 20-30 min, starting to reach out of his support base and is strong enough to pick up all toys, including the red truck and put them in his mouth!

So, my mommy and me group leader spoke about removing the bumpers soon.. the next night, our little guy decided to pull his bumper off the crib,

actually found him under it..had to get the picture

so...he lost the bumper that night!

Such a big boy...holding his bottle now!

Aiden's Christening

2010-05-17T22:04:00.006-04:00

We went down to our cousin's house in NJ for Aiden's Christening. We had a great time and it was a beautiful day!

Joe and Jenn with Aiden and Godparents Amanda and Michael

mommy and michael playing in the backyard!

What a great picture!!!!

the little stinker stayed like this for a few minutes...doesn't look too comfortable to me!

mommy and Lp!

LauraBeth and Tom's wedding!!!!

2010-05-17T21:44:00.007-04:00

LauraBeth and Tom

4/30/10

Grandpa and Grandma- married 55 years!

just amazing!!!!!

Kim, Kate, LauraBeth, Christina, Dawn and me!

sisters!!!

We had a great time!

always open for kisses!

The beautiful couple on a beautiful day!!!!

We saw the family the next day for BBQ and drinks!!!!

Michael, Juliana and James

complete coincidence- all 3 in Yankee gear!!!!

Go Yankees!!!

James and Juliana-"not again Michael, why are you crying again????"
(refer to Easter pic!)

Aunti Kim and Lp

The boys playing....

oh, I like your bib!!!!!

6 Month check up!

2010-05-17T21:37:00.006-04:00

Lp saw Dr. Desanto for his 6 month check up last week! He is now 16lbs, 4oz, 27 1/2 in long. He is 40% for weight and 75% for height. growing big everyday!

I love my sippy cup!

Hi!!! play time!

sophie and I are playing with the paper- so much fun!!!

My 1/2 Birthday!!!!

2010-05-17T21:15:00.004-04:00

Michael's 1/2 birthday was on Mother's day!!! My little tyke is now 6 months old and just moving around so much! He is scooting on his back all over the floor and crib, now rolling over, tummy to back and back to tummy!

I had a great 1st mother's day- spent the day with LP and Ralph and of course, saw grandma's, grandpa, great grandma and great grandpa and aunts, uncles, cousins!

Only Grandpa can help!

2010-04-27T14:38:00.002-04:00

a long story behind this picture. Ralph and I went out and Grandma and Grandpa were watching our little pea on a Monday night. He had such horrible stomach pain, he cried for the longest time and Grandpa helped him to feel better and finally he fell asleep. ok, maybe a short story, but we all remember it, rough night for our little boy....

Grandpa and Grandbaby

great family pic!

2010-04-27T14:35:00.002-04:00

Our cousins~ The Given's~

Cousin Heather and Chris with Michael and Cameron!
(One day this will be us!)

St Patty's Day!

2010-04-27T14:31:00.003-04:00

Michael just loved getting dressed up!

Aunti Kim, Michael and mommy

Our 3 little guys! Michael, Juliana and james...
(real soon they will be growing out of this chair)

I'm a very happy McCutie!

McCutie and mommy

Grandma, Mommy and Michael go to Montauk!

2010-04-26T22:52:00.006-04:00

Last week we met my mom out at Gurney's in Montauk for a little R&R. Just a few days and we had a great time!

My new favorite pic!
Little sandy feet!

Mommy and Michael on the beach

Michael's first time to the Atlantic Ocean!

Absolutely loved playing in the sand!!!

A storm was blowing in and we got a double rainbow!

Beautiful sunrise

Cold morning, all bundled up

so excited to be on another vacation!

hugs for grandma with the Montauk lighthouse in the background

a little windy
what a great getaway ~Thanks grandma for having us out with you!

Isabella's 4th Birthday!!

2010-04-26T22:42:00.005-04:00

We took a trip down to Toms River, NJ for our cousin's daughter's 4th Birthday.

Birthday girl, Isabella with Michael and cousin Chase

mommy, Michael and Sophie

I'm starting with this leg, then going to the next one...

the picture says it all!

cute family!

I'm a happy baby!

Michael, 5 1/2 months and cousin Aiden, 3 1/2 months

Handsome boys!

April pics!

2010-04-26T22:03:00.006-04:00

We have fun everyday

loving the camera

hi doggy, how are you?

chubby cheeks looking like such a big boy

WHY? Why do I have ears on, why am I in a basket, why am I surrounded by candy?

I will not do this next year!

Love playing with my toes!
Can't get them to my mouth yet...working on it!

yummy food!!!

5 months old...

2010-04-26T21:26:00.007-04:00

wow, time just keeps going by so fast. Michael is now 5 1/2 months old! He is growing like a little cute weed!
This past month has been really busy, as usual at the Michele house. We are just finishing the living room and dining room, all new walls, ceiling and floors. I am planning Michael's Christening, which is going to be May 22! We are having the big shin-dig at home following the church, so it is crunch time!

Michael was 5 months on 4/9. He weighed 15.2#, 26 1/2 in long. He is about 50% for both. These past few weeks he has had a lot of firsts!

The good stuff- he started eating cereal, oatmeal, prunes and sweet potatoes. He absolutely loves the prunes and sweet potatoes, not too fond of the oatmeal and cereal though.
He is sleeping better thru out the night, sleeping thru a few nights and only getting up once for some.
and he rolled over 4 times in the past 4 days....yeah!!!!

The bad stuff- our little guy had his first cold, a runny nose, sore throat and a double ear infection! He was on an antibiotic for 10 days and is now feeling much better. It was our first cold with him and we felt so bad.

Lots of pics to follow, not in any order and many more to come!

LP sleeping on our bed with my shirt over him, he loves it!

In the morning with Grandma, playing with the flower

Grandma and Michael

Reading books in the morning!

playing in his crib on a hot day

Easter Sunday, at church with my mom, dad and grandma and grandpa

loves the octopus!

also loves Sophie the Giraffe

Daddy and baby with a morning snooze!

More flowers to play with

Michael with mom, aunti Kim, grandma and great grandma

4 generations here!

almost sitting up, trying hard

practicing standing

spending time with great grandpa

loving bath time

Michael, Juliana and James- getting ready to go to the park!

Ralph and Courtney- date nights!!!

2010-04-08T21:26:00.004-04:00

March was our month for date nights! We saw Chicago on Broadway earlier in the month, then we had the wonderful opportunity to ice skate at Rockefeller Center. My parents watched LP over night for 2 nights, so we were able to get good sleep!!! We also had our new bedroom furniture delivered...yeah!

It was such a great time!

me and my dad!

Top of the Rock

another trip- close to home!

2010-04-08T20:29:00.006-04:00

Early March we stayed in the city for a few nights and had a great time. Ralph worked and LP and I were able to walk and sight see every day. We met my dad at work and had lunch and got to see his office downtown!

after along day of strolling around, eating and napping!

down by wall street

getting used to the highchair, oh, yummy!

little cutie sleeping!

mommy and LP

Michael is 4 months!

2010-03-15T20:58:00.014-04:00

Our little guy is 4 months, just can't believe it. We saw Dr. Desanto last week. Michael is 14 lbs and 25.5 in long. He is in the 25th-50th percentile for each. The dr. said we can now start some rice cereal...so maybe in the next few weeks we will. He is eating about 30-34 ounces daily, although sometimes he just sleeps so much I don't even think he gets 20 ounces in!
His sleeping is definitely becoming more predictable. LP falls asleep about 8pm, awakes about 2am to eat, then sleeps to 6-7am. He is taking 3 naps everyday for 2-3 hours each.

Yesterday I noticed little red dots on his upper back, chest and neck. The dr's office said to give it a few days and see what happens. Hopefully it will clear up, they don't seem to be bothering him.

2 weeks ago, Ralph worked in NYC, so I went in with LP. We were downtown by my dad's office and meet up with him for lunch and walked around ground zero...my first time there. Definitely takes your breath away.
The air was cool and crisp, LP was all bundled up in his stroller and we were outside walking for hours, it was really so nice to be so close to home, yet away on a little vaca!

Pics from the last few weeks!

Mommy's favorite onsie!

Similar pic from the card Aunt Kimi sent Ralph for Father's day!
so cute!

Courtney, Michael, Cheryl and Juliette

Juliette's 2nd birthday!

playing!

so sweet!

oh, a new toy...

Playing with my bouncer toys!

practicing standing at my cradle!

Going for a walk after the snow storm!

wow, really bundled up for the walk. So beautiful outside!

Grandma, Michael and Grandma!

My new way of sleeping!

2010-02-20T22:16:00.008-05:00

Michael started this about 2 weeks ago, loves to have something over his face. The first night I noticed, he pulled a blanket completely over his face, so that was the end of the blankets! Next I gave him a small little blanket with lots of holes in it, and he got all his fingers wrapped around in not a very comfortable way, so that blanket is out. Here he has his burp cloth...which has been working, but now I just give him a small bib and he loves it! I always think he is cold, but I guess if he was, he would let me know!

As for sleeping, he has been going to sleep about 8:30 pm, sleeping till 2ish, eating and back to sleep to 7ish. I finally moved him from his little rocking chair at the foot of our bed to the bassinett, but he is a little too long for it, so he will be moving to the crib in the next few nights. I finally bought a monitor last night....now just have to get it going!

New things he is doing: grabbing toys with both hands, sometimes at the same time.

He LOVES his toy octopus and holds it everytime he sees it. He has been holding his bottle a little more frequently without us prepping him. He loves to stand up and look around and his legs seem to be really strong. He smiles when he sees me, which is so sweet! I can now pull him up to sitting and he is able to hold his head up and not let it flop back...on his 3 month checkup, the dr. pulled him to sit and his poor head just hung backwards...

He absolutely loves his mobile and will watch it and play and coo, or will fall asleep to it when he is tired.

He is just the cutest thing and we love him to peices!!!!!

Michael's new toy!

2010-02-20T22:03:00.005-05:00

I'm finally big enough to be in my new bouncer!

Oh, look at these toys I can play with

My feet almost touch the floor!

maybe 1 more month and I'll be there

Playing with mommy!!!!

2010-02-20T21:39:00.005-05:00

This is one of my most favorite outfits...so cute!hmmm, my hand tastes so good!

cute buns! Baby legs!

tummy time, not too crazy about this!

Maybe not so bad for a minute!

Let's Play!!!!

LP goes to AZ!

2010-02-17T19:01:00.012-05:00

Our family flew to Arizona last week for a week in the sun! We flew in on Superbowl Sunday, met up with our friends and had a great night watching the game. LP was great on the flight there, but was fussy on the way home. Also, on the way there, delta lost all our luggage...but this time we actually had our carseat, so we were able to leave the airport without waiting for a new carseat. Ralph had to work most the week, so LP and I had some good bonding time!

We went on a tour of Taliesin west, Frank Lloyd Wright school of Architecture in Scottsdale, AZ.

What an amazing place!

We took LP to the Phoenix Zoo with our friends Steve and Nichole and their 2 boys, Josh and Jake

mommy, daddy and Michael

Could be a post card!

Jake

a little chilly in the morning!

The Carbajal's! Jake, Nichole, Josh and Steve

Both so cute!

We hiked Camelback Mountain in Scottsdale- Took about 2 hours round trip! Our first hike with LP, we definitely needed the fresh air, warm sun and exercise!

View from the midpoint!

LP is quite the little traveler...oh, where will we go next?????

New pics of our little guy

2010-02-05T21:41:00.007-05:00

Jill from a nearby photo studio came over and took some professional pics of Michael and us. He was about 8 weeks old. We had a great time!

one of my favorites

another favorite

my little thinker!

already training....

2010-02-05T21:36:00.003-05:00

Finally got this to upload!!!

3 month check-up

2010-02-05T21:19:00.004-05:00

Today was Michael's 3 month check up! He now weighs 12 lbs, 3 oz and is 24 in long. Everything checked out! He only got one shot today, cried a little, then fell asleep...which I was so happy for, as I forgot to bring his bottle...Oops!
This past week, little pea has been sleeping like a champ. This is the 6th night he has fallen asleep between 8-8:30 and slept thru to 7-8:00 ish. Every night he has only gotten up once to eat about 4-5am, for about 20 minutes. I finally have my routine down with all the bottles ready for when he stirs! My goal is 7pm-7am without waking up, so we will see if I can get there!
He is cooing a lot and yesterday we transferred a ring from the right hand to the left hand...although he didn't realize he did it, it was still cool to see. He is just growing and growing, and things are changing faster and faster.

Getting ready to see Dr. Desanto!

I love playing with my hands!

finding daddy's face

oh, so sweet! (and prickly)

Playing!!!

2010-01-28T21:12:00.008-05:00

Today was a great day! LP slept a total of 11 hours last night...with 1/2 hour of feeding at 5:30am! He woke up this morning at 9am smiling and so happy.. It started snowing early, so daddy got packed and headed to the airport, en route to Houston, TX and mommy dropped LP off at grandma's and went to the gym! Michael took a 4 hour nap, 3-7pm, and he just fell asleep again.. I am a little nervous for tonight, maybe I should wake him....

Anyway, today was the first day he reached out for a toy, grabbed it and brought it to his mouth, it was a yellow ring, he didn't quite know what to make of it, he was cute...

Ralph and I have decided to go to Phoenix, AZ next week. Ralph will be working, so LP and I will relax in the sun (hopefully it will be sunny and warm). We have good friends there, Steve and Nichole, who we have not seen in a while, so we are really looking forward to this little trip...hopefully he will be good on the plane again!

little Michael in his crib with all his stuffed animals, so sweet! He LOVES his musical mobile!

I tried to upload 2 videos...but I couldn't figure it out, they are cute, I am going to keep working on it!

1st Family Vacation- Sunny California!!

2010-01-24T19:59:00.030-05:00

Our first family vacation was to Southern California to see all our friends! We moved from So Cal Sept of 2006 and had only been there for a few hours in 2007 when we were driving from Seattle to Florida. As soon as we landed, we remembered why we love it there. It is January, yet the sun was shining and we were able to wear t-shirts and our flip flops. The first day we went to the beach and this was the first time Michael did not have to wear his bundle me! Everyday was filled with seeing friends and lots of relaxing/walking and sightseeing. Ralph and I both said this was one of our best vacations ever!!!

We left for Newport Beach on my birthday, Jan 10th! Michael was such a good little boy on the flights. His first flight was JFK-SLC. He pretty much slept, played and ate. The captain let us sit in the cockpit and take some pics, and Michael received a first flight certificate! It was really exciting.

Daddy buckled me in and gave me his headphones...Maybe I'll be a frequent flyer one day!

Having fun in the cockpit!

The pilots were so cool- explaining all the controls and talking about their families...they both have Michaels...
(As my neighbor said- "Everyone needs a Michael")

Visiting Fashion Island

daddy, Michale and the coy fish!

The chair is too big for me, daddy!

A great day to be outside!

Mommy and LP- loving the warm weather

Ralph and Avrum playing at the fountain

playing hide and go seek around the tree with Avee!

Bath time and the hotel!

oh, bath time under the little waterfall!

all bundled up after my bath...such a little peanut

grabbing onto daddy's shirt while we are on one of our many walks!

Nap time!

more naps!!!

Newport Beach!

Avee running in the sand

First time in the Pacific Ocean!- oh, it was cold!

so sweet!

Our great friend Denise!! We had such a blast together! Denise and Alex threw me a birthday party the day we arrived! All our friends came and it was so nice to see everyone and catch up!

Avee in the sand! One day this will be our little guy!

Alex and Avee walking out to the sunset

Such a warm, beautiful day- so many surfers were out!

Look everyone, I am learning how to hold my bottle!

Walking in Balboa Island

Our little surfer boy!

Beautiful Laguna Beach

Our little guy- napping again!

Another sweet pic!

Huntington Beach- so cold today!

me, Michael, Feather, Keaton, Nolan, Jay and Ralph!

Little Keaton and Michael are about 2 weeks apart!

Andrew and Michael

Already practicing surfing!

Our last day here- Corona del Mar Beach

This is a beach we didn't even know existed- our friend Steve brought us here and we walked for a few hours enjoying the fresh air and beautiful scenery!

Our little family!!! Lucky us!!!

Thanks to all our friends, we really enjoyed seeing everyone and we hope to see you all soon! Come visit NY!

Ist pics of the new year!

2010-01-21T21:40:00.007-05:00

So cozy!

I'm watching you!

I don't know why, but I am so comfortable like this!

Mommy and Michael

Burr, it's cold...

1st snow- Michael's Christmas trees in front of the house! So pretty with the snow!

Daddy and Michael- so sweet!

New Years Eve 2010!!!

2010-01-21T20:49:00.003-05:00

We had a great New Years! Ralph and I had dinner with friends and a movie. We were home by 11pm, just in time to ring in the New Year with our little guy!

Happy New Year Sweet Pea!

Catching up!!!

2010-01-06T23:40:00.006-05:00

Time goes even faster when you have a little one... quick catch up- Michael now weighs 9 lbs, 15 oz and he is 23 in long. Dr. Desanto is very happy with his growth and says "he is perfect" (we already knew that :) ).

Michael received his first immunizations last week, Ralph and I had many discussions about that. Dr. Desanto answered all our questions. Little pea just cried for about 15 sec, then was fine.

He is becoming such a good sleeper. He falls asleep about midnight or so, and sleeps till 7:30ish almost every morning. A few days ago, he slept till 8:30, I got out of bed to make sure he was still breathing! He takes a long 4-5 hour nap during the day, and little cat naps in between.
I am still nursing and pumping and also supplementing with formula a little each day. It's working for all of us, but it is a lot of work to do all three! I feel like I live at the sink with all the bottle washing!

Ralph has been home from work for 2 weeks now. It has been so nice having the extra hands and they are just so cute together "man time" Ralph calls it. I love knowing I can leave for a few hours and Ralph has everything under control. Life is good.

I started going back to work about 2 weeks ago, 2-3 days/week. I thought I was going to hate it, but, to tell the truth, I am very much enjoying being back at work. I worked only 4-6 hours each day. My plan is to continue 2-3 days a week, about 6 hours. It is nice to get out of the house, I know Michael is in good hands, whether with Ralph or my mom and I feel like I am contributing again.

We had a great New Years! We were all up and watched the ball drop in NYC!
In a few days we are heading to Southern Cali to see friends and enjoy some warm weather! We can't wait! Michael's first vacation!
The New Year is starting off great! Happy 2010!

It's Christmas Time!!!!!!!!!!

2010-01-06T22:47:00.020-05:00

Merry Christmas!!!!

We really had the best Christmas ever. We were able to spend a lot of time with our family, many who had not yet met little Michael. Michael received lots of toys and clothes for Christmas. Every toy makes some sort of noise...I see our future being full of songs and sounds! (Can't wait!)

Our cousin Kamala and her sons, Ern and Aaron came up to stay with us. Kamala made me a beautiful scrapbook of my pregnancy. The book is the best gift ever, she captured all the important milestones and I LOVE it!!!

Kim and Rob came down from VT. Even though it was a short visit, it was the best seeing them for Christmas!
and of course, we got all 3 babies together! the highlight of the day!

Lots of pictures ahead!!!

Michael sleeping Christmas Morning

Cousin Heather had a little onesie made that says Sweet Michael, I love it!!

Cousin Cameron- 1 1/2 yrs old

Cousin Michael- 4 yrs old

mom and little pea

Proud new parents!

Great Grandpa and Great Grandma with James, Michael and Juliana

The Zdral Family!

All of our cousins, Aunts, Uncles, parents, brothers, sisters and babies!!!

James, Michael and Juliana in Christmas boxes.
They really didn't like the boxes, but we just had to get the pictures!

I think they are a little more comfortable here!
They are holding each other up in the chair, so cute!!!!

Juliana, Michael and James

Santa surprised Kim and Rob with The Tree of Life

Santa also brought stained glass for Ralph, a Frank Lloyd Wright inspired piece.
We can't wait to hang it!

Our Newlyweds!!! Kim and Rob!!!!

Little Pea in his 1st box of the day! not a happy camper here!

What a great pic of our little present under the big Smith tree!

ok, maybe it is not so bad in the box...

I will not do this next year...

The Michele Family!

Christmas morning at home with mom, Kamala, Ern and Aaron

Aaron and Michael

The Smith Family!

Yeah, I am having a great Christmas!!!

Kim and I

Michael and Michael! I am so happy big Michael loves little Michael. They are going to be best buds!

Little Pea loved playing with Kamala and Ern and Aaron. He smiled so much. It is so amazing to see the changes in him just after 2 months

Dad and Little Pea, winding down from a very busy few days!

Merry Christmas!!!!

Bath time!

2010-01-06T22:08:00.006-05:00

Michael loves the bath! He fusses a little right before he gets in, I think he is a little cold, but once he is in, he loves it!!!

looking out the window...ooo, it's cold outside!

Yeah, I love smiling!!!

My little ducky wash cloth, it keeps me warm!

Oh, no... I am out of the water....I'm cold!!!

poor little thing

Getting ready for Christmas!!!

2010-01-06T20:41:00.014-05:00

We had so much fun gearing up for Christmas...what a great gift we have...we are very blessed!!!

Our little guy getting ready to smile...but not yet!

We drove out east to Lewin's Farm to pick out our Christmas tree. We decided on a ball tree, where you get the roots all wrapped up in burlap. After Christmas we can plant it outside and and watch it grow year after year. LP slept thru the whole day!

Me and LP with my mom, dad and Ralph

Me and LP. It was so cold, but LP was very bundled up and warm!

We went to see Santa at Mary Kahrs place.

James, Juliana and Michael.

They all slept through all the pictures!

So Cute!!!

Santa and Michael!

Michael is 4 weeks old!

2009-12-07T18:32:00.022-05:00

So, time really goes by fast when you have a newborn. I have been thinking about blogging for days now, but just haven't had the time. Michael just finished nursing (for an hour), then had 1.5 ounces of pumped milk, then 1.5 ounces of formula. I think he is finally full! A lot has happened in the last few weeks. This past week I finally feel like I know what I am doing! Michael is now sleeping about 7-7.5 hours each night. He goes to sleep about 11-12pm, then gets up about 6-7am each morning. We are really enjoying our sleep. He also takes about a 4-5 hour nap during the day and he is up the rest of the time.
We have been seeing Dr. Desanto each week b/c he has not gained back his birth weight yet.
He was born at 8 lbs,3oz, went all the way down to 7lbs,6oz, and last week was 7lbs,9oz. We go to the Dr. again this Wednesday, so hopefully he gained more. Dr. Desanto has said to keep nursing, but limit only to an hour each time, keep pumping (which I am doing and my milk supply is really building up!) and still supplement with formula after every feeding.
We are starting to take him out. Yesterday we went to get pictures with Santa at CFY, where I go on Tuesdays for my New Mother's group...which I absolutely love and look forward to every week... He pretty much slept thru the pictures, then we went to staples, then to Panera for lunch. It really feels good to get him out and about.
Thanksgiving was very nice. We had Thanksgiving at our house with my parents and Ralph's mom. Small and comfy! We had enough food for the neighborhood and everything was so yummy!
My sister Kim was in town this past weekend and it was so nice to have extra hands. She is so loving to little Michael. She helped me with feeding, changing, bathing, soothing and also with organizing things around the house and completing his birth announcements!!!!!

Of course, we have been taking lots of pictures! The ones I added are not in any order.

Thanksgiving with our pumpkins! He might have been a little cold!

He LOVES aunti Denise's hat and blanket!!!!
tummy time!

so cute!

We have lots of pictures in this position!

Michael, Juliana and James

Dawn came over to take some Christmas pics. We had a blast dressing them and trying to keep them calm to snap away!

James, Juliana and Michael

They all were crying at one point, we had a little chorus going, we really need to get it on video!

Michael ready for Christmas pics!!!

He was so good, only cried at the end

Getting a little Vitamin D and fresh air!

Mommy and Michael!

James, Juliana and Michael

Visited Great Grandpa and Great Grandma.
What a great picture!!

Another great pic!

Bath time

Michael doesn't like to be changed or cold, but he is ok with the bath, so far!

1st bath- a little tricky but we got it done! slippery little guy!

One of the Dr. visits, so cute!

Michael and mommy! Michael is wearing the hat Aunti Denise knitted for him. We love it and he wears it all the time!

Michael, Juliana and James

Our 3 little guys, it really is so much fun to get them together, and it is so great they will grow up with each other!

All 3 babies together!!!

2009-11-22T12:56:00.012-05:00

Dawn called me on Friday with cabin fever and I was definitely having cabin fever too. She came over with James and Juliana. It was so exciting to get all 3 babies together for the first time!!! We went for a walk in the neighborhood, about 1 mile and it was a workout with all the hills! It was beautiful out, about 68*. Halfway thru, Dawn and I were stripping down to our T-shirts, it was so funny! The babies loved the fresh air! Afterwards, they all cried from hunger, they sounded like a little chorus! Then they ate and they all slept! Silence is also a nice thing!

Michael, James and Juliana

James and Juliana bundled up on our walk

Little Michael- comfy and cozy!
We love the snap-and-go's!

Mommy playing with Michael!

Trying to prop him up, not yet Mommy!

Cutest little thing!

Michael is 12 days old! Time is going fast these days! He is definitely making more eye contact and there have been a few intentional smiles ( I think). He is also starting to hold his head up for about 15 seconds or so. It is so sweet to see him just looking around, I am always wondering what he is thinking!

We are still working on nursing....I am certain we will get it figured out, I just hope it is sooner than later :)

Ralph has been away for 5 days, just a few more to go. I know he is anxious to get home and we can't wait to see him!

My First Week

2009-11-18T13:31:00.015-05:00

Our little Michael is now 10 days old! The time is definitely going by fast! We had a very busy week. Lots of visitors and our 1st trip to the pediatrician. Dr. Desanto says Michael is exactly where he should be for just a few days old. He still has a little jaundice, which is normal and the bruise on his head is healing nicely. (he had a big bruise from labor :( )
This first week has been both exciting and tiresome. He has been sleeping a lot, during the day. Some nights he has slept up to 5 hours, but other nights maybe an hour at a time. I have been nursing as much as possible, but I have been feeling like he is not getting enough to eat. We have supplemented a little with formula at night, which satisfies him and he is able to sleep.
I joined a breastfeeding group on Mondays and a New mother's group on Tuesday's. Both group's are super supportive. It was nice to get out of the house and meet other new mom's and their new little babies. Two of the mom's are from the lamaze class we took in September, it was so nice to see them again and catch up on all the labor and delivery stories. I also learned it is not only me who has so many questions and concerns about nursing!
Last night little pea slept about 5 hours straight, it was so nice to get some sleep! He is sleeping now, and I am trying to keep him up a little, so he is tired at night. His days and nights are definitely backwards! Michael is a very heavy sleeper during the day and a light sleeper at night, figures! While he was taking a nap on Monday, Ralph was cutting moulding and we were installing moulding 2 doors down from his room and not a stir! Way to go champ!

First car ride to the pediatrician. He was all bundled up...it was cold and windy outside.

Kim came from Vermont for a weekend visit. She was so excited to get here. I think she held him the entire weekend. Ralph was away and Kim stepped right into his shoes and was able to help out tremendously. THANKS AUNT KIM!!!!

Little pea sleeping in the cutest little outfit!

Sleeping in his crib with his Yankees binky. Go little Yankee Fan!

Sleeping with Aunt Kim

Looking around!

Great Grandma and Grandpa came over for breakfast Sunday morning.

Michael smiled for great grandpa! We didn't get it on camera, but it was his first smile awake.

Papa pea and little pea!

Our 1 week family picture!

A New Favorite Picture

2009-11-12T18:41:00.003-05:00

Daddy and Michael taking a morning nap...

love it....

Pictures!!!!!!

2009-11-12T18:05:00.025-05:00

November 8th- we were going out for the day before going to the hospital at night to get induced! The weather was beautiful!
I absolutely love autumn!!!

We took a drive to Kings Park Bluff to watch the sunset before we went off to the hospital! Time to get little pea out!

Visited Dawn and James and Juliana! They are all doing great! LP is so lucky to have 2 cousins the same age. They will all grow up together! I can't wait to get a picture of all 3, around the holidays they will meet each other!

After getting induced Sun night, and starting pitocen Monday morning, little pea was born at 6:43pm. Kim was the first person I called and she was soooo excited!!!!

Mom and dad visiting about an hour after Michael was born

Mom visiting

Our 1st Family picture!

Daddy holding Michael while he is sleeping

Oh my, it's too bright and I am cold!!!!

Michael in his bassinet in the nursery

Mommy and little pea right after being born. So special and magical!

Aunt Maria and family visiting How lucky are we too have so many visitors!
Cousin ken, cousin Christina, Aunt Bonnie and Uncle Fred

It's a boy!!!

2009-11-12T15:23:00.008-05:00

Little Michael Giovanni Michele has arrived!

Our little angel was born on Monday, November 9, 2009 at 6:43pm. He was 8lbs 3oz and 21 in long. He is so amazing! It's only been a few days and he already has little smiles when he is sleeping (and some frowns too!) We just can't believe he is here and we are parents! We had so many visitors in the hospital and everyone is just so excited and supportive! We are really blessed to have such wonderful family and friends!

We came home from the hospital yesterday afternoon and he slept mostly. Last night is another story. He was up most of the night, crying and awake, and didn't want to be put down to sleep at all. Ralph and I took turns staying up with him and I was SO excited to see daylight this morning! My mom came over for a few hours and helped take care of him as I took a shower and a quick nap and daddy ran to the store for a few things. Today I spoke with the lactation consultant and she answered all my questions and put me at ease. She holds a New Mother's Nursing group on Mondays, it happens to be around the block, so I will start this Monday and I feel like I have good support. Little Michael is latching on pretty well, it's a learning curve for both of us!
When he finally falls asleep, he is a very light sleeper. We are trying not to be too quiet because we want him to get used to some noise. He loves to be very swaddled and he really doesn't like bright lights. His eyes seem sensitive, I think that is normal. We have our 1st pediatrician appt tomorrow morning, so I'll be able to ask all my questions. I met with 2/5 pediatricians while I was in the hospital. Both were very nice and informative.

oh, our little pea is up and hungry...gotta go! I will post more pics soon!

Overdue...still waiting...

2009-11-07T20:13:00.006-05:00

So, I am now 40 weeks and 3 days. We have been talking to little pea everyday about how it is time to come out...but so far nothing. Little pea must be very content in there, which is a good thing. So, This morning, Ralph and I woke up, had breakfast, then I cleaned out the living room of all our office things and set up paint shop so I could paint all the moulding. As it dried, Ralph cut it and installed all the base mouldings, case and started on the crown for the master bedroom. We were totally insinc until we ran into a problem with 1 door, so we decided we were done for the day!

So, because Little pea has decided not to come yet, we are going tomorrow night, Sunday, to the hospital to get induced. My Dr. wanted to wait another week, but then Ralph would be off traveling again and I would be so nervous he wouldn't get back in time, that we decided to deliver on Monday. Hopefully everything will go smoothly! Since this is our last night as a couple without a little one, we went out to H2O restaurant, Ralph's been wanting to go for months.. it was delicious!

Me and little pea!

Mom and dad-to-be! One more day to go!

Due today...and waiting patiently...

2009-11-04T21:28:00.007-05:00

Well, Today is my due date. We had an appt with Mary and Dr. Birnbaum. Everything looks great! Which is great news. Little pea is estimated to be about 6Lbs, 8-11Oz. My blood pressure and fluid levels are all perfect. Now we just need to wait....

We are both so ready for little pea to come, it is getting harder everyday to keep waiting. If LP doesn't come by Sunday, I am going in to get induced Sunday night and hopefully things will progress well on Monday. So, for now we are hoping LP comes on her/his own any day now. I would rather not be induced, but I also don't want to go another 2 weeks, just to get induced then. Dr. Birnbaum says LP is still pretty high and must be comfy in there. Ralph now says LP is enjoying--- Courtney's "9 month" day Spa---

Due Date pic of mom and dad to be!

We are narrowing down names, which has been a lot fun. Thanks for everyone's input. Keep the ideas coming. So, within the next few days we will be parents. We are a little nervous, but very excited!!!

Anxiously awaiting Little Pea!!!

2009-10-31T08:12:00.003-04:00

Ralph came home last night after being away for 8 days. These last 8 days I was a little nervous that little pea would come early and Ralph wouldn't be able to get home in time. But, now he is home for almost 2 weeks....so little pea can come at any time.... We are due on Wednesday, but hoping little pea decides to come on Monday or Tuesday! If LP doesn't come this week, then Dr. Turano said we will induce early next week, either the 9th or 10th. So, this little baby is definitely coming in the next 1-2 weeks. We are getting very excited and not so much nervous anymore!

These last 2 weeks...

2009-10-31T08:01:00.011-04:00

Pumpkin Picking!!

We put the crib together last week, it is really cute! The room is so sweet and we both really love it!

Ralph working hard....it is never ending!

My mom and I went to visit Dawn and Rudy at home with James and Juliana. They are just they cutest little babies in the world! Juliana slept the entire time we were there and James was wide awake. I am holding Juliana and my mom has James.

At work yesterday, we had a halloween party. My coworkers decorated my baby bump! so cute, but it is sort of a mean face :(

Dad and me at home

39 weeks!

2009-10-29T20:17:00.006-04:00

Well, I am due in less than a week now. I am excited and a little nervous. Ralph is just excited!
Little Pea's room is coming together and so is the rest of the house. I can't wait for the house stuff to be over. We really took on a big renovation. I just want to finish, then be able to enjoy.
Little Pea's carseat and new stroller came in, I am so excited. I will be getting them tomorrow.
I started packing my bag and LP's bag.
I had a dr. appt earlier this week, LP's HR was 141. Dr. Turano says everything is good. If I don't go into labor this week coming up, the due date week, then she would like to induce me at the beginning of the week after. That would give little pea a birthday of 11/9/09 or 11/10/09. Which actually are my uncle John and cousin Christina's birthdays! The due date is 11/4, which happens to be my cousins husband, Rudy's, birthday...so little pea is definitely surrounded by family, I love it!
I am secretly hoping little pea does not come on Halloween...
I have gained a total of 20 lbs. And, my placenta has moved enough at this point, so I can go for a natural birth. I am very happy about that, as that was and still is my plan! I am starting to feel a lot of pressure, but that's about it. Little pea is moving all over the place...we can't wait to meet him or her... although, we are still trying to figure out baby names, we never really thought it would take so much time to agree on one, but it has. We have a few more days to go...Any suggestions, anyone????
I will post more pictures this weekend!

Suprise Baby Shower at work!

2009-10-17T11:06:00.002-04:00

On Thursday, my co-workers gave me a suprise baby shower! I absolutely had no clue! It was so sweet and thoughtful! I received lots of gifts including clothes, bottles, diapers, 2 beautiful picture frames, toys and gift cards. The cake was cannoli and strawberry filling, my absolute favorite!
It really was a great suprise and I am very thankful to everyone!

The Twins are here!!!!

2009-10-17T10:58:00.006-04:00

WELCOME JAMES AND JULIANA

My cousin Dawn had her twins on Wed, 10-14-09. They are so beautiful! The are about 4 weeks early, so they are in the NICU for a few days. The whole family has been able to visit and see them. They are so tiny and precious! It's amazing how beautiful and perfect they are! Dawn and Rudy are so excited and can't wait to get them home. They are planning to go home this Monday. Congratulations Dawn and Rudy!!!!!!

Juliana Grace 4lbs12oz Born at 5:27pm

James Antonio 5lbs7oz born at 5:24pm

38 weeks!!!

2009-10-17T10:52:00.004-04:00

I saw Dr. Birnbaum and Mary this past week. Little pea is now about 5lbs14oz, growing 1 lb since the visit 2 weeks ago. Dr. Birnbaum still says the baby is a little smaller then he would like to see, but not to be worried at all. (I tend to worry a lot). This was the first visit Ralph was not at as he was in Cincinnati. I feel we are very lucky he was able to make it to all the other appts. We were able to plan around his traveling schedule pretty well.
My next appt is this Thurs with Dr. Turano and Ralph will be there :)
Just a few more weeks to go, little pea's room is coming along, and I love it. Can't wait to see it finished!!!

Baby update!

2009-10-10T15:31:00.007-04:00

I am now seeing the Dr.'s every week on Wednesdays. Good news- The Wednesday before the wedding, Dr. Birbaum said I was good to go to the wedding...I obviously would have gone anyway, but I am glad we had his approval...

not so good news- Dr. Birbaum and Dr. Turano have been monitoring my placenta the last few weeks and it has not moved as much as it needs to to have a natural birth. They started talking about a c-section and what that would entail.

Last Wednesday, after the wedding, we meet with Dr. Birnbaum and he said things look ok, but they will know more this Wednesday when I have another sono. If the placenta hasn't moved, it is looking more and more like a c-section, but my fingers are crossed. Of course, a c-section is not my plan!

As for little pea, he or she now weighs 4 lbs, 14oz as of 1 1/2 weeks ago. I am hoping this Wednesday little pea will be over 5 lbs. I have gained a total of 15 lbs so far. As of the last visit, I had only gained 11 lbs, and I thought that was not enough, so I really enjoyed the wedding, ate a lot of food and brought cake home, a week later, I was at 15lbs.. so now I feel a little better!!! and the cake was really good too!!!

Little pea has been moving all over. Ralph and I have not been sleeping well. He says I am snoring a lot and when I turnover my hips are popping... he can even hear the popping every now and then. We both slept very well last night....because he is in Cincinnati and I am home...

Little Pea's arrival is just around the corner and we are so excited....

Picture of little pea at 36 weeks

Our new cradle

2009-10-10T14:33:00.006-04:00

We received the most beautiful gift this week from family friends Dave and Cathie. A handmade cradle with a painting of little sweet pea!

The cradle is beautiful and will be something we have for many, many years and we will be able to pass it down our generations!

Little Pea will sleep very soundly in his or her new cradle!

Meet the new Mr. and Mrs. Larkin!!!

2009-10-10T13:48:00.020-04:00

Kim and Rob 10-3-09

Dad, Kim and I getting ready for the wedding Thursday night!

Sitting on the porch overlooking beautiful lake Champlain Friday morning!

Beautiful Lake Champlain. We were able to see Vermont under the clouds!

Looking over to the Boathouse!

decorating the boathouse for the reception!

Ralph and me and little pea on the dock. It as such a beautiful weekend! The weather was about 50*-60* and sunny before the wedding. The day of the wedding, it was a little rainy on and off, but you could still see the lake!

The main house! The house overlooks the lake. Kim and Rob had the cocktail hour and the desert hour at the main house. Dinner was at the boathouse!

All the girls celebrating the night before the wedding!

Me, Kelly, Marissa, Kim, Heather, Alison and Ellen!

Mom and me going to the church!

Kim getting ready in the morning...She looked so beautiful!

Kim and Rob with Uncle Richard at the reception. Uncle Richard sang for them, which was a special moment for the whole family.

The wedding was really beautiful! It was so nice to be upstate on the lake for 4 days! We all needed a vacation and it was so nice to be in the mountains. We really have to remember, life is short and we need to enjoy every minute of it!

Dawn and me and 3 babies!

2009-10-10T13:43:00.004-04:00

My cousin Dawn is also due in November and she is having twins! Lucky girl!
Here we are in her new kitchen! They just bought a new house and moved in. Congrats!!!
Dawn and I are about 1 month apart and our kids will be just a few weeks apart, pretty cool!

time to catch up....

2009-10-10T13:14:00.013-04:00

Well, it is crunch time now. Little Pea is just a few weeks away. Ralph has been working so hard every minute he is home to get the house ready. It has been stressful at times, but he is doing beautiful work and I am very proud of him!!!! It is really amazing and so exciting to see the transformation of the rooms and to see everything pulling together.

Our contractor Todd came over to build our beautiful working shutters with Ralph!

The office! Now painted, the new heaters are in and we started getting the desks in yesterday!

The new floors were finished last week! They are beautiful and don't sqeak!!!!

Little Pea's room. Ralph built a beautiful little shelf to go around the room with different mouldings. the color is a light yellow weave color...matches our calm, beachy theme.
We are just waiting for the new closet doors to arrive and the room will be done!

Building the closet organizers forthe master walk in closet. It's the Pax system from Ikea..we love it, although, it was a little tricky to get into the closet.

Ralph and dad tearing dwon the hallway ceiling 2 weeks ago.

Ralph dad, and me! Ralph, dad and our friend Shane were able to take down the old ceiling and put up the new ceiling in about 5 hours one night...a lot of work.

I was their gopher.....

little pea update!

2009-09-16T18:06:00.004-04:00

Today we met with Mary, the sono tech and Dr. Birnbaum. Little pea is now 4.6 lbs, and so far I have gained 13 lbs. Not too bad! It looks like my due date, which is Nov.4th, might be more like Nov. 7-8th, either way, just a few more weeks to go. We did get some new pictures today, but I cannot figure them out, Ralph thinks he sees a hand and face, but I beg to differ.
My placenta has been low since week 20, and it finally moved.. slightly.. over the last 4 weeks, but Dr. Birnbaum wants it to be moving more, so my fingers are crossed it moves soon! I have another appt in 2 weeks, right before I head upstate for Kim and Rob's wedding. It looks like I will have bi-weekly appts from now forward.
Last Sunday Ralph and I had a full day of Lamaze with the great Mary Kahrs. I don't even know her titile, but she is so knowledgeable with everything from breastfeeding, to delivery, to infant care and childcare! We have 2 more classes with her this weekend, Baby Basics and infant/child CPR.

My Favorite Picture!

2009-09-16T18:03:00.003-04:00

This is one of our most favorite pictures ever!

I LOVE IT!!!

Home renovation update!

2009-09-16T17:10:00.014-04:00

Well, we are now 33 weeks, tomorrow starts 34 weeks and we are in crunch time! Little pea and home renovations are both progressing. They are almost equally exciting, but little pea outweighs home improvements by far!

pulling up the old carpet

Old wood floors. We realized they were not in good shape. Our plan was to just have them sanded and refinished...

but then I can home from work and found Ralph had decided to pull them up, and now our plan is new hard wood floors! The new floors will be a much better wood and definitely won't be so squeaky, so I am excited for the new floors, just another project...we're up for it!

installing new sub floor today

and of course we need to change the hallway wall for better flow ... so Ralph tells me, either way, the wall is now down and back up (it does look much better!)

Installing crown moulding in little pea's room, we have pretty much picked out the colors, greens and blues..

pulling tape off the wall, getting ready for crown moulding in the master!

Ralph has been home for 5 days and we have been up many hours trying to get as much done as possible. We have had help from some friends, my dad and our siding contractor, Todd. Ralph and Todd are outside right now building beautiful board and batten working shutters!

It is very exciting to see all the progress, we absolutely love it and can't wait to finish everything so we can enjoy it!

... 7 Years...

2009-09-07T21:12:00.012-04:00

Today is our 7th Wedding Anniversary!!!

Walking in Long Beach, it was so beautiful to be by the water!

The time has just gone by so fast. It is amazing how much Ralph and I have been able to do in the last 7 years of marriage, and the last 13 years we have actually been together! We often find ourselves looking back and reminiscing of all our travels and fun times. There are so many memories! A few of our favorite are driving cross country a few times, scuba diving in So Cal with our dive buddies, driving down PCH in our BMW with the top down, (and for anyone who really knows me, I always made sure we had our hats on and sunblock so we didn't get burned), boating with friends in Seattle, living on a farm with friends in Florida, getting breakfast sandwiches and going skiing in SLC every chance we had, camping and hiking in many National Parks- California, Utah, Washington, Colorado, South Dakota, Oregon, Texas, Arizona, New Mexico, Florida... Attending the Winter Olympics in 2006 in Torino, Italy, backpacking England and Ireland....The list goes on and on....

Most of all, we have really been blessed with all the wonderful friends we have met along the way...

Now, looking forward, we are excited to be starting the next chapter in our book! Little Pea will be with us in less than 2 months and we are definitely ready and excited!

Video from Rob's Aunts

2009-09-05T12:10:00.003-04:00

Here is a video that Rob's aunts made for us. My mom and I went to the Larkins home in late July and Kim met us there when we picked up her dress. Rob's Aunts from the Chicago area were also visiting and took some pictures of me, little pea and mom and Kim and they put together a video. It is so sweet. Thank you Laurie and Mary!!
Check out the video:
http://www.onetruemedia.com/otm_site/view_shared?p=950f56c43ea0347cc90a67&skin_id=601&utm_source=otm&utm_medium=text_url

Update from this week...

2009-08-30T16:15:00.011-04:00

I'm 31 weeks now and growing daily. Little Pea is moving all over and the kicking a lot and the kicking is getting stronger. I am definitely getting more tired as time goes on. I need to remember that my body is not able to work as efficiently as it was before I was pregnant. In fact, I was moving things in the basement earlier today and a space I would normally fit through, I couldn't. I just got such a kick out of that! I was trying to suck little pea in, but just couldn't do it, so little pea and I moved on to other house things!!

Friday night we went to Sean and Tamara's wedding

The cutest picture, we had a great time and got to see lots of friends we haven't seen in months or even years!

Ralph and I with Ralph's mom, Barbara and Ed at the wedding

Goodbye BMW

2009-08-30T16:11:00.003-04:00

Ralph and I have been talking about selling the BMW for the past year or so, and last week we finally sold it! We loved this car, but don't need 3 cars now. We bought it years ago in Southern Cali and absolutley loved driving down PCH. The car went with us when we moved from SoCal to Utah to Seattle to Florida and back to NY! Lot's of fun times!!!

House update!!!

2009-08-30T15:24:00.024-04:00

The house is coming along. The siding was completed on Friday. The contractor needs to come back for 1 more day this week to wrap it all up. We ABSOLUTELY love it!!! The siding, windows and moulding are everything we wanted and were striving for. Our contractor is a family friend who worked with us down to every detail. And, we all know, Ralph is very detailed.... :)

New hardiplank on the back of the house

new white trim around all the windows, doors and corners of the house It is a product called Kleer, we love it.

Pool side- new windows and new french door from the master bedroom to the pools and hot tub.

Old front door

New front door (craftsman style!)

new house wrap

front of the house

Front of the house with the new HardiPlank! We chose iron gray with white trim. We removed an old light that was in the peak of the house and Ralph rewired for two sconces, which will be installed where the new light boxes are. Of cousre, the sconces are craftsman...and beautiful!

The pool side with the new hardiplank...I love it!

The inside is coming along too!! We have taken down all the paneling in the 2 back bedrooms and the exterior wall of the master bedroom, re-sheetrocked, spackled and Ralph re-wired all the outlets and added cable, internet and phone to all 3 bedrooms. They are now primed and today my mom and I cleaned out the closet in the baby's room. I then took all the shelves down and now we need to spackel and paint in there.

Then, we are ready to install the crown and floor moulding, paint everything, get the floors sanded and refinished, get the new heaters in ....and then we will finally decorate!!!

Ralph has been working very hard every minute he is home, his rest is when he is out of town working!! (He is in Chicago now)

We have had A LOT of help and really appreciate everyone's time and expertise.

It's exciting to see everything coming together...pics to follow soon!

Dawn's Shower

2009-08-30T15:19:00.005-04:00

My cousin Dawn is also pregnant, but...she is having twins!!! So exciting. She is having a boy and girl. Dawn's shower was last weekend and we had a great time.
Between the 2 of us, we have 3 babies growing...and they will all be here for the holidays!!!

Congrats Dawn and Rudy!!!!

Baby Shower!!!

2009-08-30T15:02:00.010-04:00

My baby shower was Sunday, August 16th. It was such a great day!!! Lots of family and friends, great food and LOTS of gifts for little pea!!!

The shower was at the Riverview, right on the Great South Bay!

So many beautiful gifts!!!

Cousin Christina, mom, me, Grandma, Kim and Aunt Maria

Special delivery box filled with a look-a-like pizza made of baby clothing, washclothes and towels!

From Kim, the cutest Vermont onsie!!!

Me and my sister!!!!

The shower was really beautiful. I had a great day and have enjoyed looking at all the new baby things so many times since the shower. Thank You everyone!!!!

Visit to the Guggenheim

2009-08-23T20:32:00.011-04:00

So, when I had to sit in the Dr.'s office for the 3 hour glucose test a few weeks ago, I read lots of magazines. I came across the 50th anniversary of the Guggenheim, from Frank Lloyd Wright, one of Ralph's and my favorite architects of all time. We have traveled all over the country to see his architecture.

So, we took a ride to the Guggenheim to check out the exhibit. It was early on Sunday morning and there was a long line to get in. The Guggenheim is a beautiful museum, the last time we were there was almost 7 years ago when we took our wedding pictures! We were long overdo!

Little Peas first time listening to headphones, and how perfect, he or she was listening to the history of Frank Lloyd Wright. Maybe we have a little architect in there!!!!!

Definitely a great way to spend a Sunday afternoon!!!

30 weeks today!!!

2009-08-20T12:58:00.005-04:00

Today we start 30 weeks, only 10 to go. Time is actually starting to go a little faster, probably due to all the home renovations we are doing. Everyday we are very busy. The siding is going up now and looks awesome. The windows are in and all the trim is in. I absolutely love it.

My baby shower was this weekend. It was so much fun. We received so many great gifts for little pea. It is going to take a while to go thru everything. Now time to work on all the thank you's!!!!!
Pictures to follow soon.....

almost caught up...

2009-08-15T23:33:00.008-04:00

I now realize I need to blog more often so I don't have so much to do at once. Ralph and I have been so busy all week, that I have been too tired to do it at night. 3 days this week, we didn't get to bed till 2am. I was so exhausted at work, I actually want to take a nap at my desk. I am using this weekend to catch up. Ralph is in Pittsburgh and I really can't do anything in the house till the Monday. Today I ran around with errands, then took a nap from 7-10pm, then decided if I don't blog tonight, it will probably be another week...so now it is late and I still have some things to add, but that will be for another day.

Quick update on the house- Ralph and I have worked very hard on the house this past week. Windows were installed 2 weeks ago. The contractor started last week for the new siding, Ralph sheet rocked the 3 back bedrooms, had Rudy, my cousin in for plumbing, had the electrician in and the spackler starts Monday. So far, we are very happy with all the work, but it has been stressful... and getting more stressful as the days go on. Our home improvement project has grown into a very big project, but as it comes together, we are starting to see the end result, the house is going to be awesome. Let's just hope it does not become more stressful as time goes on.
pics will follow...one day....

28 week sono

2009-08-15T23:27:00.005-04:00

Well, we are finally at 28 weeks, officially 7 months, it is getting very exciting as we get closer to meeting little pea. Little pea is moving about everyday and my shirt is also moving more and more. We met with Mary the sono tech and Dr. Birnbaum. I have gained 8 pounds so far and the baby weighs about 2 1/2#'s. This is one of my most favorite pics yet. It is a little fuzzy b/c I couldn't scan the sono pic in the computer, so I took a picture of the picture. This is little pea lying on his or her side, almost smiling. It is so cool how you can see the little nose, eyes and mouth. Just a few more months to go....

Birthday celebrations!!!

2009-08-15T23:15:00.007-04:00

On August 8th, we celebrated Ralph's, Aunt Maria's and Grandma's Birthdays. It is always nice to spend time with family and BBQ! This is what summer is all about

Courtney, Papa pea-to-be and mom and dad

We all went in on a gift Ralph has been keeping his eye on, a saw to complete all the new moulding in the house. He was very suprised!!!

Aunt Maria, Ralph and Grandma with their birthday cakes!!! Happy birthday!!!

Vegas baby!!!!

2009-08-15T22:57:00.010-04:00

Ralph and I made our annual trip to Vegas last week. We have meet our great friends Denise and Alex there for 3 years now. The first year, Denise was a few months pregnant, last year Denise and Alex had little Avrum, he was about 6 months old, this year, Avee is 1 1/2 years old and now I am pregnant...so next year both our kids will be there. It is becoming a tradition to meet in Vegas, I hope our clan keeps growing and we can do it for many years to come!

Ralph and Avee- they both had so much fun playing!!!!

Ralph's Birthday was 8/4, it was so nice to celebrate with our friends!

Here we are at the pool. We stayed at the Wynn, what a beautiful hotel. We had a great time, I had my hat on and 70 sunblock...don't want to burn little pea!!!

Vegas was a much needed get-away. Although Ralph was there for work, we were able to spend a good amount of time together. We were relaxed and rejuvenated. The day we left we had all morning together, a great breakfast and playing in the pool with Avee. Can't wait for next year!

Week 27- very busy!

2009-08-15T22:34:00.008-04:00

This week started with my 3 hour glucose test..which I passed. Yeah!!! Mom and little pea are healthy!!!
It was actually really nice to take the morning off from work and sit in the Dr. office and watch TV. I caught up on the Today show, Rachel Ray...but then I was off to work for the afternoon. :(

This weekend, Kim came down to NY for the bachelorette party. Her friend Cindy from VT came along and we had such a fun time. We spent the day in the city, had a great dinner at Thalia, an american contemporary resturant right outside Times Square. We went out for a few drinks and a comedy club show, which was actually very funny...We stayed overnight at the Marriott Marquis, such a great hotel!!! We didn't get back to the hotel till 3am...it was a true test for me. I have been going as I always have, with walking, excercising, working, housework, etc. Well, after walking all day in the city, then staying out all night in heels, I was very sore the next day!!! Maybe it is time to take it easy...but we just had so much fun!!!

Bachelorette girl, cousin Liz and friend Heather!

Cindy, Cousin Christina, Kim, Me, LauraBeth and Heather

At the Marriott before everyone arrived for drinks and a great view. Kim and Cindy had Margaritas...and the looked so good. I had a virgin strawberry daquari..I am such a cheap date now!
View of the Hudson and midtown from our room

Kim's Wedding Dress

2009-08-15T22:28:00.004-04:00

A few weekends ago, my mom and I drove up to the Larkin's in Rome, NY. Kim met us there from Burlington and she picked up her wedding dress!!! Kim found this dress a few months ago when browsing with Rob's mom and sister while visiting them. The dress shop was so cute and the dress fits perfectly! She could have gotten married that night!! Everything is getting into place for the wedding, just a few months to go!!! We really had a great weekend. It was nice to get away and have a girl weekend with mom, Kim, Kim's mom-to-be Gerri and Rob's sister, Kelly.

Little Pea update

2009-07-29T19:26:00.004-04:00

Little pea is growing strong. I had an appt on Monday for the glucose test. Baby's heartbeat was 156. I have now gained 6 pounds in total, right where I should be. I am all clear to travel to Vegas next week...I can't wait to go. Besides relaxing for a few days, Ralph and I are meeting up with our good friends Denise and Alex from Cali...can't wait to see them!!!
Back to the Dr- Bad news, I need to go for the 3 hour glucose test tomorrow :(
Luckily, I can get in early and then get to work. Dr. Birnbaum called to say I was just over the threshold for the 3 hour test and I am also a little anemic...so now I have an iron supplement to take daily. Our next sono is August 12th, which is 28 weeks...I am just finishing up the 6th month, overall feeling great.