Living Our Love Song

Some Updated Pics

2011-03-20T05:12:00.000-07:00

We seem to stay on the go ALL the time now. Between Jonathan's work schedule, my training and Gabriel's school, karate and soccer, we just go go go. Luca even grabs his backpack first thing in the morning now, and will point to the door and say "out". But, busy is good. We are all doing well, and are happy to see Spring weather finally. Luca LOVES being outside, and the cold, wet days were taking its toll on us.

So, first...I officially have 20 days left before my competition. Jonathan took a updated picture of me last night. I am down 18 pounds and close to 8% body fat. This is wild to me, considering I was pretty happy with where I was before I started this challenge, I didn't think I could cut so much. I'm in the hardest "diet" part right now. My diet has been cut drastically to cut the last amount quick...so I'm very aware that all of this that I am losing these last 3 weeks will come back on fast. It will stink in a way, but I can not "maintain" this. Way too hard. This has been such a mental challenge and has definitely shown me what I'm capable of with self-discipline. Now the next thing is...I may take a week off after the competition and then come back for 6 more weeks to compete in a pro competition. !!!! Crazy, I know. It all depends on how I feel and how I do on April 9th. More to come...

Gabriel's end of preschool is right around the corner, and he is registered now for kindergarten. I take him in a couple of weeks for his assessment. He is SO excited about big kid school...the best part? You can pick your own lunch, and they even have chocolate juice if he wants! :o) It's the little things. We are trying to figure out some summer plans, hoping to hit Hilton Head with a girlfriend and her two little ones when the kids get out, and then we'll do our July 4th up in CT with the family. Not sure if we'll do much more than that. We have so much we can get into here...and I think the boys will just have a blast being in a swimming pool this summer. Gabriel is doing fantastic in his second season of soccer, and he is up in the next couple of weeks to be tested again for his yellow belt in karate. Love it! Now I just can't wait for Luca to be able to do stuff, because he just runs around like a crazy child at these places.

We took the boys last Sunday to an animal park...they both had a blast, but needless to say it wore them BOTH out. :o) (This is how Luca always relaxes in the car...with his hands behind his head.)And then all the way in the back of the car...

Luca wants to be a big boy like his brother

These two LOVE the trampoline
Just chillin' with daddy
Gabriel enjoys being goalie

Not a good picture...but I think it's funny how he carries around his smoothie (like daddy) and his egg and cheese sandwich (like Gabriel)

Half Way There!!

2011-02-25T07:07:00.001-08:00

I have 6 weeks from tomorrow until my competition. Wow!! This is hard. The mental part when it comes to food...how you eat, when you eat, WHY you eat. We went out on a date last week, and I wanted popcorn or SOMETHING just to munch on so bad! When I bake, I have to make a big effort not to lick a spoon, or my finger....or the bowl. ;o) But, I'm doing well. I feel like I'm just doing okay, but my trainer assures me that I'm doing great. I weigh/measure again on Monday..but, I'm at least (from my stats 2 weeks ago) down 10 lbs, around 6% body fat...and I bought a pair of jeans 2 sizes smaller!! So, I'll have absolutely nothing to wear by the end of this. :o)

Here's a pic (I took myself, so not the best). And, Yes Cara! I know!! My shoulders are not straight! :o)

My Funny Valentines!

2011-02-17T09:30:00.000-08:00

Jonathan and I decided before we were even married to not really "do" Valentines. We agreed that we should show our love to each other year round, not spend money on overpriced goodies one day a year. But, with kids, we do get cards, make things, etc. This year, Jonathan came home with some flowers and let Gabriel give them to me. It makes Gabriel SO happy to do things like this. And even better, I was able to take a beautiful picture of my boys!

2 1/2 Weeks down...10 1/2 Weeks left

2011-01-22T04:09:00.000-08:00

So....how's it going?? It's tough. Mentally it's tough to constantly be conscious of what you're eating and when....keeping track of calories, carbs, protein, fat, fiber...I think I've got a pretty good handle on it now. That doesn't make it any more fun...but tolerable. The workouts? Exhausting! The crazy weight our trainer gets us doing is insane to me. Top that with overloading on cardio and I'm not good for much else. I'm trying to not neglect my family too much during this...but it is temporary, and I hope to make them proud and be better for it. Gabriel is totally pulling for me, and very aware of what I can NOT eat. And he tells me. :o) I'm starting to see a change in my appearance, which definitely helps and gives me the boost I need. Monday will be the next measurement/pinch day, so I'm anxious to see the results.

I'm posting a picture (definitely before) of Cara (my partner in all of this) and myself. She's probably sick of me dragging her into my ideas... :o) But she's hanging tough! And it's great support to have someone doing with me.

Don't wake daddy....

2011-01-18T05:08:00.001-08:00

For quite a while now, I will wake up only to be scared by a small person standing next to my bed in the dark. This small person is none other than Gabriel....every morning, quietly just standing there. I'll ask "what are you doing?" and he'll say "shhhh....don't wake daddy...can I play my game?". "Yeah, sure...." I always respond.

This morning while eating breakfast, Jonathan started laughing at the fact that Gabriel just stands there....and so I asked G why he doesn't say anything. He said he doesn't know who is there, if it's me or daddy. I told him I almost always sleep on that side (unless I'm TRYING to sleep longer). Then Jonathan asked, why don't you ever wake up daddy? And Gabriel answered "because you always tell me to go back to bed." :o) OHHH. I understand now. And I was always so upset that he would wake me up and yet be concerened enough to let daddy sleep. It was just a smart move on his part.

Week 1 is under my belt....

2011-01-15T04:56:00.000-08:00

So, I'm just going to keep a "diary" of my experience on here in case I forget how it was. Like childbirth. After it's over I may say "it wasn't that bad". :o) I think I've got the hang of the diet part...I hope. It's definitely a challenge making two meals every time - one for the boys and one for myself. I've had the occasional snippy moments, but overall I think I'm doing okay. I've even winged myself off my coffee creamer. :o( Hard to do, but I know I'll see my dear friend, French Vanilla coffee creamer, in my future.

Apparently my house doesn't smell as good as it used to (according to my father.) Well, I'm a pastry chef, and right now this girl is lucky to make pancakes for the kids without licking the plates afterwards. I officially start the "training" part on Monday. I'm very much looking forward to this! Now it won't be like I'm just on a diet, I'll actually start working towards seeing improvements! Anyways - with one week down, and I think a solid 3 pounds off my scale, I'm moving in the right directions. Now....12 more to go!!!

I Like to Move it, Move it!

2011-01-12T05:59:00.000-08:00

Snow Day

2011-01-11T08:57:00.001-08:00

So we had a nice snow/ice storm and have been stuck at home for a couple of days. Not too bad though. At least Jonathan was home with us....this wouldn't have been near as fun if we weren't able to have a little Rock Band time together. :o) That mixed in with the occasional parental duties...and he did some work, we've had a nice time being "stuck" at home. Wish we could do this more often!

Gabriel gets his first new belt

2011-01-11T08:43:00.000-08:00

Gabriel has now gone from white belt to a white belt with a black stripe. :o) I (almost) cried as they tied the new belt around him. I got to watch him do his test....and he did great! I have it on video, but no pics. I just took pics before and then after.

Practicing at home

Ready to start the test!
Getting his new belt

Very proud!

The proud new belts!

A New Year...A New Me!

2011-01-07T06:10:00.000-08:00

As I start this new year, and quickly approach my 34th birthday, I have decided (with the support of my awesome husband and great friends) to train and compete in a bodybuilding competition on April 9th. I'm excited about the training, and the opportunity to push myself to a new level, but I'm a wee bit nervous about sporting a small bikini (which I have not worn since college!) and posing on a stage in front of 500 people.

I'm putting this out here so there is no backing down...now that my blogging world knows, I feel accountable. ;o) Wish me luck...pray for my family, as they may need it if this diet makes me cranky. I'll post pictures in April!

Big Santa Gift

2011-01-06T09:52:00.001-08:00

Santa brought the boys a trampoline for Christmas...and it has a been a HUGE hit. Here's a little preview.

Family Christmas Photo Shoot

2011-01-06T08:48:00.000-08:00

I'm lucky to have a neighbor/friend who is talented in photography, and so kindly took our family photos this year. I loved a lot of them...but, kids will be kids, and Gabriel was either over taking pictures or Luca was just interested in kissing the dog. But, we managed to get a handful of keepers....and I threw in some extra. :o) Thanks Cara!!

It's Christmas Time!!

2011-01-06T08:05:00.000-08:00

I love the holiday season. I totally embrace new and old traditions, and all the business it offers. After our crazy holiday last year, I was really looking forward to a little more relaxing one. Didn't happen. We had a beautiful Christmas Eve with our neighbors, and went to a great service at our church...then to a great Christmas Eve dinner at my dad's house. It's always too quick with the family, and then we have to rush home to get the boys to bed so Santa can come. Gabriel was sure to leave out 3 cookies and he put a glass of milk in the fridge so it would be nice and cold when Santa came.
Then on Christmas morning....at 3:30 am!!! Gabriel was up and ready for the day. This turned out to be a nice, but LONG EXHAUSTING day. We had our first white Christmas in Georgia...and then got on the plane at 4:00 to fly to Connecticut for a Blizzard up there. All was good until Sunday when Jonathan started feeling bad, and ended up at the immediate care to find out he had strep throat!!! We made it home on New Year's eve, and our sweet neighbors had the cul-da-sac group over for chili, and we crashed. Our fist year to miss the ball falling...and the midnight kiss. :o(

The boys Christmas morning

Luca on his 4-wheeler Me with some of the Italians....I'm really not that tall.

Some of the massive snow mounds

Gabriel and Luca helping G-Lu blow out her birthday candles....with help from Aunt Jessica
The boys on the plane ready for takeoff

At the airport on Christmas day

Jonathan did a great job on the lights this year!

Putting the final touches on

Luca up to no good, I'm sure

My brother, Cory, put together the trampoline...me explaining to him that I am NOT too heavy to be on there

Realizing that Jonathan was taking pictures

Gabriel and I snuck away one day to DD for coffee and doughnuts

My poor sick sweetness

That's me out there determined to dig our car out of the snow so we wouldn't be stuck.

Bacca Pa, Gabriel and Kevin

Random Pictures from Fall 2010

2011-01-06T07:41:00.001-08:00

I have been so bad at keeping this blog updated, and even worse at taking pictures at family and special events! Poor Luca just gets the occasional cell phone snap pic taken. My goal for this new year is to keep at this better. Hopefully. :o)

North Georgia Mountains

2011-01-06T07:28:00.000-08:00

We LOVE the mountains....LOVE LOVE LOVE them. We usually try to go to Colorado every so often to feed our love of the mountains, but we have been unable to do that for a couple of years. This year, however, our friends Amanda and Rob invited us to the North Georgia mountains for a weekend together....with the kids. It was short, but a very nice time. We woke up the first morning to snow and a beautiful view from our nice little cabin. We hiked with the kids, and were even able to spend a little adult time together after the kids went to bed. Looking forward to doing this again!

Halloween 2010

2011-01-05T16:05:00.000-08:00

Another Halloween has come and gone, and I'm glad for it to go! I'm not a super big Halloween fan...and after this year with Gabriel getting TOTALLY freaked out at the costume store, I was glad for all the decorations and movies to be gone. But, he had a nice party at school, and then we did some fun festive things with our hood-friends, the Bairds. :o)

Gabriel dancing away

Dancing with his girl, Melany

Gabriel and buddy Chace

Getting ready for some Trick-or-Treating!
The Baird Clan

Soccer for Gabriel

2011-01-04T12:32:00.000-08:00

This fall Gabriel got to play soccer for the first time and LOVED it. They were the Villa Rica, Wildcats (they all were)...and he played with a great group of kids and had a fantastic (patient) coach. They even had a little party after their last game, and he got his first trophy. Unfortunately, Jonathan was out of town and missed this, so Gabriel asked me to take pictures and tell daddy what the Coach said. "Gabriel turned out to be a great defense man, and he never gave up".

Luca getting in on the after-game cookies

Gabriel with Coach Rodriguez

Berts Pumpkin Patch

2011-01-04T05:52:00.001-08:00

This is a neighborhood tradition that the Bairds started several years back and have invited us to be a part of. We missed last year because of Luca's birth, but went with them the year before. Another group, the Kents, also came with us. Again...it was a little warmer then I like when you go looking to pick a pumpkin, but we had a great time still.

The Gang

The Bairds
The Scofields

The Kents

Yes....Luca is asleep....again.

Apple Picking

2010-12-07T18:10:00.000-08:00

We decided to throw another hope-to-be tradition in our schedule this year, we went with our cull-de-sac group to the North Georgia mountains to go apple picking! We had a great time. I think the kids just had a great time eating the apples they picked (even though I don't think that was actually legal). They also had a huge jump thing that made Gabriel's day. Luca slept for the most part in the backpack....maybe next year he'll have more fun. We had a nice lunch and great company. When we got back I was able to make a apple pie for the neighbors, and we cooked marshmallows out at the fire pit that neighbor Steve so kindly built. :o)

This didn't last long before Luca was trying to get out

The Gang

Gabriel and Addison
This is where Luca spent the remainder of the trip

Gabriel was ready to go

Gabriel found something to jump on!

And...he's asleep

Time for marshmellows and hotdogs!

Look at this little lady!! When did she grow up?!

Out of the Mouth of Babes...

2010-11-03T18:18:00.000-07:00

It's been awhile since I posted fun things from Gabriel. Soooo...I'm going to try to add a list here.

He told me the other day that he really likes being 5 more than 4, because when he was 4 he couldn't do anything. And now he gets to play soccer and karate.

He all of a sudden loves to dance. So, after school he gets home and wants to put on music and will literally dance for a good hour. We had the music on, and a slow song came on, and he came to me and said "momma, do you want to dance with me?" I kept my composure..and said "yes sir, I'd love to." While we were dancing he asked "is this how you dance with daddy?"

I could write a book on the conversations I have with him regarding being a boy. (If you know what I mean...) It has come to the time now where I tell Gabriel, "let's wait for daddy to get home, and you should ask him those questions since he's a boy."

He asked Jonathan the other day "why do you have a moo-stach"...Jonathan corrected him saying it was a mustache, but that he actually has a goatee. So, Gabriel asked him why he had a goatee...and Jonathan explained that because he didn't have hair on his head, so he wanted to have hair on his face. Gabriel continued to study him for a few minutes, and said "why is your goatee going up your nose?"

My Baby Turns One!

2010-10-27T10:22:00.000-07:00

Looking back at this past year there were times that I felt like we were going in slow motion, and then other times I look at Luca and think "where did my baby go?" At one, Luca is stumbling around trying to get this walking thing under control...he says momma..and possibly Bailey. Other than that he just makes random sounds. We thought he was saying da-da...but haven't been sure. He pretty much just reaches his hands out and yells when he wants something...or if you are in his way...or if you take something from him. I refer to him as having "youngest child syndrome". He's precious, and funny...and a bit of a firecracker. He climbs on everything, sometimes using the dogs as his personal step stool. He gets into every drawer and cabinet that is not locked, and sometimes manages to unlock them and still get in there. We have to keep doors closed to protect the dogs water and the toilet paper rolls...two of his favorite things to get into.

At his one year wellness check up, he came in at a whopping 22 pounds and 23 inches long, putting him around 25-50th percentile. He is known around the house as the little nugget, or sugar. It's funny to see how much smaller in size he is than Gabriel was as this time...but, Luca definitely makes up for it in personality. He still can just look at you and you sense that he knows a lot more than possible. The old soul is still there....with a mischievous grin. He has a mouth full of teeth and LOVES to eat just about anything. He loves being with his big brother and I'm sure this is just a glimpse of his attachment to Gabriel.

I found it hard to believe that I would love one child so much...and then to love another just as much is so incredible. It's true that God can just open your heart to love endlessly. Never would I have imagined that I would be the mother of boys...now that I am, I see that I was made to be the mother of boys. Couldn't imagine my life any other way...or any better.

Me and Amanda with our little ones
We didn't mean to, but we left out Gabriel!

Hard to believe that these boys are 5 months apart!

I think Bryce is giving Luca a high five.

As fall approaches...

2010-10-09T17:11:00.000-07:00

We had visits from Jonathan's sister and grandma one weekend...(I don't have pictures!!)...and we dressed Jessica up in cowboy boots and hat and sent her to a rodeo. I need to get the picture because the girl put a whole new meaning to cowgirl up. ;o) A few weeks after we had Jonathan's parents. They were able to come the weekend between the boys birthdays, so we ended up celebrating Luca's birthday that weekend (next blog). While they were here, Bacca Ma painted Gabriel's face - quite interesting.

This picture perfectly depicts their personalities.

Knocked daddy out!

Gabriel Turns 5!!

2010-10-08T12:28:00.000-07:00

First, let me start off by saying..."Oh My Gosh!! Where in the heck did those 5 years go?!!" We've been through a lot during Gabriel's little life...and although sometimes it's hard to believe he's been with us for that long, other times I have a hard time remembering life without him. He is now past the age of being my little baby...he is totally his own person. He has his own thoughts on what he wants to do, eat and wear. He is pretty self-sufficient, and he was a blessing during my pregnancy with Luca, and during this first trying year of having a new baby in our house again. He has never shown anger or jealousy towards his little brother...even when at times I think he is entitled to. I am so proud of the child he is turning into, and excited to see what this next year hold for him. He is full time in pre-K, and active in soccer, which he is doing very well at. He told me yesterday he wants to try karate again..so, we'll see if we can squeeze that into our schedule. He is still my little sweet heart that loves to cuddle and watch movies...and sometimes I get a glimpse of the little boy he was...and then the next instant I suddenly see the big boy he is fast becoming.

For his birthday this year he knew exactly what he wanted to do: A Magic party with a pinata and a star wars cake. So, that is what we did. We even had a magician come do a performance. It was a beautiful day...and I think Gabriel had the best birthday ever.

From Daddy on Your 5th Birthday

2010-10-05T18:38:00.000-07:00

Gabriel,

I wanted to write a letter to you on your birthday. I wanted to take the time to reflect what has happened over this last year. What it comes down to is that I've seen my little boy change in a big way:

Bigger - you were tall enough to ride the Tower of Terror at Disney World...given, we didn't go anywhere near that =). You also started playing soccer...watching somebody almost 4" tall with "Scofield" on the back of the jersey and knowing it's my son blows my mind. "I can't tell you what it really is, I can only tell you what it feels like."

Smarter - you seem to learn something every day and find new ways to surprise me and teach me a new perspective. From no longer saying "lellow" when you try to describe the color of the sun.

Sweeter - hearing I love you or getting several extra hugs and kisses followed by "I love you, you're my best daddy in the whole world" at random times in the day never gets old.

Kinder - your sensitivity to others feelings is powerful. It makes me both proud that you have such a hear for other people and God's creation, and concerned that people won't know how to accept that kind of love and respect and their reaction can sometimes be painful.

Gentler - seeing you become a big brother is almost like watching you be born again. I've seen a side of you that I could never fathom. Being a big brother is not something that your mother and I could have taught you, but I couldn't imagine you being any sweeter and in tune with Luca. You've embraced every aspect of the title. When Luca cries, it doesn't bother you because he annoys you, it bothers you because you hurt for him. It warms my heart to look int he rear view while we're driving and see you holding his hand (even while you're watching a move). Just like anybody that comes in contact with you, he's going to be a better person for having you in his life.

Stronger - far beyond physical strength, you have the ability to comfort others. When I moved into my new position and started traveling again, you really did embrace the team concept; you, Mommy, and Luca were a team when Daddy was gone. You missed me together, you loved each other together, and you made each other stronger...together. I don't know if I'd be able to do my job without knowing that. It's a tall task for a 4-year-old (now 5) but you took that on freely. It gives me peace.

I look forward to what this next year will bring. And you're moving right along. As I put you to bed on 19 Sept 2010 from your 5th birthday, you said, "Daddy, when I turn 6 years old, I want to have a rocket ship on blocks." Time doesn't stop.

The world is a better place for having you in it, my son. And I'm proud to be your father. As I read through this, I can imagine Bacca Pa saying the same thing to me when I was younger and thinking the same things that I do now back when I was your age. I only hope I can be as good for you as he and Bacca Ma were for me.

I love you,
Daddy

Sweet Water hike with the boys

2010-10-05T17:57:00.000-07:00

There is a beautiful park near our house with some great hiking trails. So far, we've only ventured the easy hike...trying to get Gabriel up to a longer, steeper one. But, I foresee some more hiking now that the weather has cooled. Maybe we'll be able to do something in North Georgia soon with them. Even the dogs were able to tag along to Sweet Water, however, I think that is about as much as poor ol' Rocco can handle these days. He slept for a while after our short hike.

Lucca thought it was funny to poke daddy in the back of the head

Disney 2010

2010-10-05T17:52:00.000-07:00

We weren't originally planning on going to Disney this year..being that Luca is too young to appreciate, even enjoy it. But, an opportunity came up that we could go with some friends that we haven't seen in years...and their three boys! So we did...and we had a fantastic time. Gabriel was the oldest of the boys, they had three that were almost 4.....2 1/2 and one that is 3 months younger than Luca. It was a lot...of fun. :o) Gabriel had more fun than anyone, I think. He was the perfect age to fully enjoy Disney.

Thanks Dan and Amy (and boys!)

My Two Sons...

2010-10-05T16:55:00.000-07:00

With being so behind on blogging, I keep missing pictures. So, here are actually a couple of pictures from our 4th of July in CT.

What Our Mornings Look Like Now

2010-10-04T18:57:00.000-07:00

Some Miscellaneous Photos of the Boys

2010-10-02T18:39:00.000-07:00

I took the pictures from Jonathan's iphone to add to our blog. No particular order...but there sure are some cute ones!

Luca's First Haircut....bribed with a lollipop.

Gabriel not happy...Luca cheesin' away.

There we go.

Always happy after bathtime

Luca loves taking a bath with his big brother

Gabriel Starts Pre-K

2010-09-24T09:03:00.000-07:00

The time has come for our baby to start school. Pre-K that is. He is gone so long each day...it took some getting used to how quiet it is around the house. He has also started playing soccer twice a week, so needless to say the boy is pretty tired every day now. He is really enjoying both, and Jonathan and I are really having fun watching this new stage in his life. We love getting to go watch him play sports. Fun! I will post a blog on his soccer soon.

4th of July in CT

2010-09-24T08:40:00.000-07:00

We went up to Connecticut for our annual 4th of July trip. We got to see most of the family, and Gabriel had a blast playing with all of his cousins. There are ton of kids, so he gets to burn out his energy when we are up there. It makes us feel sad that he misses out on growing up near his cousins. We also got to spend time with the other two Luca-age little ones, Eliana and Lucia. They are all about 3 months from each other. Jonathan and I were even able to sneak away for a night and lock ourselves in a nice hotel in downtown Stamford....we totally relaxed and had a fantastic time.

June Pics

2010-09-13T18:44:00.000-07:00

I'm soooo behind! So, in June, Bacca Ma (Jonathan's mother) came down for a visit and took some great pictures for us. While she was here, we (Jonathan and I) surprised Gabriel and took him to the beautiful Fox Theater in Atlanta, to see David Copperfield. We had a blast...and of course he looked so cute! We also went to a summer party next door, and Gabriel had a blast playing in the pool and the slip and slide.

I think this is SUCH a cool picture of Gabriel!! You can totally see what he will look like when he's older. Watch out ladies!!

We clean up well
Luca getting ready to love on his big bro

Going in for the kiss

He's got him now!

My sweet boys

This is our little sugar!

Gee-daw is so entertained by sugar

Bacca Ma and Sugar

Yeah...no, can't tell these three are related.

Summer party at the Bairds

Slip and Slide!

I'm not real big on MY picture...but I LOVE this rare moment with my sweet sweet boys.

Luciano's 9 Month Update

2010-07-25T10:56:00.000-07:00

July 5th our little Scofield turned 9 months old. Wow, it goes by fast the second time. His stats: 21 lbs and 28" long. He lands right in the middle of the growth chart for both. So, basically, he's perfect! (Which I already knew!)

Here's some recent pictures of our little monkey...and oh is the boy a busy one. Happy, but busy!

I LOVE my eggs and pancakes!

Oh....Rocco wants some of my eggs? Okay.

At my 9 month checkup
Luca helping his big brother play a game.

He drank a smoothie...possibly suffering from brain freeze. Not sure. He's happy, though!

Monster!

Always happy.

For you, my love

2010-06-27T18:10:00.000-07:00

We have been put through a test - a test of seperation. Jonathan is gone a lot now. Actually, about 70-80% of the time. Sometimes it feels like he just is home for a quick visit on the weekends. I love him so much, and am so proud of the man, husband and father he has become, and who he is still growing into. He is my strength, my peace, my happiness, and my heart. This phase in our life isn't making us grow apart or even grow stronger...but it is making us learn how to handle a new situation...together. I'm a better person because of this man. There is a song that I wanted to add to my music list that I sent to him one night, but it wasn't on the playlist. So, instead, for our record, I'm posting the lyrics on the site. It's Patty Griffin's "Coming Home to Me."

Anytime you say it with heart
Anytime you're falling apart
When you're washing the sheets
Any stranger you meet
Wehn there's somebody waving goodbye

You're coming home to me
Just remember you're coming home to me

It's a world full of bar rooms and alleys
Of blue nights and red river valleys
When you feel like a shirt and a tire
Or like dirt or a lion and no one can see

You're coming home to me
Just remember you're coming home to me

When you get to that place that's just under the stars
Hanging over the tree at quarter to three
When you get there you'll know that's as far as you go
When you get there you'll see you were already free
When you get there you'll be

When you're lost and you're found
And you're found then you're lost
When you're dancing with no one around

You're coming home to me
Just remember you're coming home to me

(I love you, Jonathan Scofield!)

As we approach 9 Months!

2010-06-22T04:50:00.000-07:00

We are just days away from Luca turning 9 months, and I am amazed at how fast it has gone by. He has been an absolute joy. I couldn't ask for a better big brother, too. Gabriel loves his little brother, and has never shown even the slightest jealousy or anger towards Luca. I'm excited to see how this relationship grows.

What is our little Luca Joe doing these days?? EVERYTHING. He has been crawling for over a month, and can pull himself up and take steps if holding on. He still smiles at everything, and does this cute little crinkling of the nose when he does his hard smile. You just can't help but smile back. He does not like to be put anywhere that he is not able to explore - and I've already had to put plugs in the electric sockets. He eats anything and everything you offer him...and has decided that baby food and formula just don't cut it. He has two big bottom teeth, one on top that has come through with three more pushing through. The only time I can get him to stay still and relax is when he is in the jogging stroller.

And last - let me introduce you to Luca's hair. :o) It does not lay down. We keep thinking it will eventually get long enough to where it lays flat, but we've been thinking that for months. So here is my precious monkey.

Some summertime photos

2010-06-22T04:23:00.001-07:00

I have serval photos from May and some of June to post.

Luca hanging out at the waterpark

Luca was a little under the weather this day - but still so darn cute
Daddy and Gabriel at the Fox Theater - we took Gabriel to see David Copperfield.

My little ham

Memorial Day Cookout

It's good to have an attack dog...

Especially when you have pesky flower-sprinklers.

Doing what we can to stay cool

Gabriel and some buddies from his school

The boys with their Maw-Maw

Luca and his BFF, Bryce

Trying on a Braves hat at the store - I think he likes it!

Being a Mother...

2010-06-20T16:36:00.000-07:00

I've had a real hard time the past few weeks. Luca, now 8 months, came down with a virus two weeks ago. It was a high fever and rash...3 days later Gabriel got it. It didn't affect Gabriel as much, but Luca started waking up at night and becoming REAL clingy. It has been taking us 2-3 hours in the middle of the night to be able to lay him down. I think he has 4 teeth on top popping through, and those are taking their toll. With the sleep deprivation, and with Jonathan traveling, I have found myself burnt out. I feel stressed, guilty, (tired), and very lonely. I spend absolutely zero time with Gabriel now...and find myself yelling a lot. Something I HATE. This past weekend while Jonathan was home, this came out, and I ended up in tears. We realized that we needed some much needed alone time and "us" time. I love my kids. I do. But I was just feeling like something needed to give.

Then, tonight, when I was rocking a cranky, snoty nose Luca to sleep I was thinking: maybe I want too much. I want to be the one to have fun with the boys...playing the games, hanging out, kicking the ball, taking them to the movies, playing in the water....but, maybe I was looking at this wrong. I'm a mother. I'm the one who gets up at night when tears come, wipe the noses, give the baths, brush the teeth, feed, wash the clothes, kiss the boo-boos...and in general, "take care". So maybe one day, my boys will grow up and won't think "my mom never played with me", but that "I was loved, and always felt safe. Always had food on the table. Always had a kiss a night time. Always had someone when I was sick. I was wanted." God blessed Jonathan and I with an amazing responsiblity - to take care of and raise these two precious boys. I was looking at what I wanted rather than what what was needed from me. It's part of motherhood. It's hard, it's stressful, it brings tears of joy and tears of sadness. But, it's worth it. I'm in love in a way that I never knew was possible - with my husband, with Gabriel, and with my sweet little Luca.

Anyways - this is for me. So that one day I can look back and realize how fast it flew by, and realize it wasn't as bad as it seemed at the time.

Breast Cancer 5K in Atlanta

2010-06-20T16:13:00.000-07:00

My best girl and I took on the Breast Cancer 5 k this year. Perfect weather...we had the perfect fans (husbands and sons) on the sidelines. Although I think two of the sons were sleeping and one was bored. But, Gabriel got to run in with me at the end. It was SO crowded. Which is a good thing...yet, hard to move! We'll do this again next year, definitely! Thanks Amanda!

Mother's Day

2010-05-09T19:52:00.001-07:00

I woke up this morning feeling so blessed for all God has given me. It's such a great responsiblity...and I catch myself thinking "Can I do this??!" And then come the good morning mommy, the hugs and kisses, and the little 2-teeth smile. Yes I can. I look at my kids and think of everything I want to teach them, how I want them to be independent and strong, yet come to me - for anything. I've been worrying about Gabriel a lot lately, as we approach moving to a new school, and knowing that he has to start learning to do things on his own. I watched at Church this morning as we walked into his room and said "Hey!" to everyone, and not a single person acknowledged him. I stood there with my heart breaking, and said "baby, I don't think they heard you!" And he looked at me with his big brown eyes, and said "go mommy". So, I turned and walked to the door, and when I looked back I saw him waving and say "hi!" again...still with no answer. The boy really likes everyone, and he doesn't get that other kids may pick and choose, but aren't necessarily as friendly as he is. He takes after his father...not me. I was a one, two-friend person at most. He came home and told me that a couple of kids in his pre-k told him that they weren't his friend...and it broke my heart. I don't know how to do this....let him go AND protect him. I'm sure I worry more than I should, but what can I say?! He's my baby! I had hoped for a few quiet minutes for my mother's day present...but, I guess when you have little ones, that's not really what you get. We had a nice lunch with my mother and grandparents, and then we went to a little carnival at the mall. Gabriel had fun...Jonathan got motion sick...and I just laughed because I was glad it wasn't me riding those rides! :o) All in all, I can't complain. I've got a pretty nice life. Busy, but wonderful and full of love and laughs.

Luca Joe at 6 Months

2010-04-10T03:46:00.000-07:00

Stats:

19.2 lbs, 26 inches long. This puts him at the 75th percentile in weight and around the 60th in height.

What can Luca do? Whatever he wants! :o)

He has two cute teeth which he loves to bite your finger, your shirt, or basically anything he is able to reach and stick in his mouth. He can move across the room by either doing continuous rolls or scooting in a belly/elbow move. He can go up on all four...wanting to crawl SO bad. I'm not real anxious for him to be so mobile because the little nugget is nosey and will be into everything. He is still the happiest baby I have ever seen, offering a smile and flirty eyes to anyone who looks his way. He cackles at most everything Gabriel does, and he loves to play peek a boo - instant giggles. My favorite time with my baby is the few quiet minutes we have at bedtime. Sometimes he'll lift himself up and we'll just stare at each other. He's been a complete joy, and Jonathan and I are blessed to have been given the chance to do life with these precious little boys. I couldn't imagine life without them.

Easter 2010

2010-04-10T03:41:00.000-07:00

Another fantastic family day! Started off going to the early service at Church...trusting Gabriel that he could stay fairly quiet through the service. Which he did. We then headed home to have a wonderful lunch with my parents and grandparents. Gabriel's cousin, Chloe, was able to join us, and they had a ball hunting for Easter eggs.

Ladies Night Out

2010-04-10T03:39:00.000-07:00

Several of us went out for a ladies night to Agatha's Mystery Dinner Theater for my stepmother's birthday. It had been awhile since I had been there, and I absolutely love it. Very entertaining...with a very nice dinner! It's also fun to get all dressed up...especially when I look like a "mom" most of the time.

My Birthday

2010-04-10T03:34:00.000-07:00

I had a WONDERFUL birthday. We woke up to the first pretty day in a long time, so, I started the day at the gym and then took the boys to the park for lunch with my mom. There we were harrassed by a whole gang of geese. They must have been neglected since the weather had been bad. Mom was laughing at me, because I sat on top of the picnic table and kept throwing water at the crazy hissing birds. Jonathan came in from being out of town and we ended the day with dinner with my dad and step mother. It was perfect. I love birthdays...and do not mind getting older. Each year seems a little better than the last.

Miscellaneous Photos

2010-04-10T03:27:00.000-07:00

I'm sneaking in some pictures mainly from the beginning of March. I let myself get behind on posting, and didn't want to leave out these.

Welcome Bryce Freeman Young!

2010-03-18T04:29:00.001-07:00

Our good friends, Amanda and Rob Young, welcomed their little boy, Bryce Freeman on March 2nd. I've had the pleasure of visiting with the little guy a couple of times, and can't get enough!! He is absolutely perfect! I'm sure he will have plenty of pictures on our blog in the years to come.

Luca's Dedication

2010-03-18T04:08:00.000-07:00

For those who may not know exactly what a Baby Dedication is: it is a ceremony in which believing parents, and sometimes entire families, make a commitment before the Lord to submit a child to God's will and to raise that child according to God's Word and God's way.

This was a very important and special occasion for our family, and we are so thankful for our family being there to support us as parents and Luca in this commitment. It was a beautiful dedication, and we will try to get the video downloaded soon.

Gabriel insists on holding Luca's hand ALL the time
I love this picture because Gabriel is praying for his little brother

A Snowy Valentine's Weekend

2010-03-18T03:36:00.000-07:00

I think Georgians are all snowed out this year. It has seemed like a long winter, with all the sickness going around. I feel like we've been sick since October! But, we awoke on Saturday, Feb. 13th to a beautiful white landscape. Gabriel enjoyed playing in it for a while with Addison - but, I think he is done with the snow as well.

What else to do other than snuggle on a snowy Saturday morning.
Our backyard

Gabriel walking to Addison's house

Two snow angels - daddy angel and Gabriel angel

12 Minutes in the Car with a 4 Year Old

2010-02-11T18:34:00.000-08:00

"Mom, is daddy coming home in 3 days" ~ no honey, daddy is coming tonight. ~ "he'll be home today?!! Well, that's not so bad!"

"Mom, Anthony got his hair cut." ~ he did? ~ "yeah, but I don't like it." ~ you don't? ~ "no, he used to have little circles all over his head, now he doesn't. I like the little circles."

"Mom, boys have brown eyes, and girls have blue eyes." ~ oh really? ~ "yeah, you have blue eyes, and me, Luca and daddy have brown eyes." ~ well what about Bailey? ~ "Actually, Bailey has one brown and one blue." ~ why do you think he has one of each? ~ "Because God wanted Bailey to have a little of you AND a little of daddy."

(We passed a guy working on the road)
"I think the road is broken from lightening hitting it." ~ really? you think lightening did that? ~ "yes. Lightening stings like jellyfish."

Luca Joe at 4 Months

2010-02-09T10:15:00.000-08:00

I took Luca for his 4 month check up yesterday, and his stats were:

16 lbs 7.4 oz

25 inches long

Very Sociable

Swollen gums (waiting for some teeth to make an appearance)

And he got two horrible shots. Gabriel came with me, and asked if could leave the room because he didn't want to see Luca cry.

Luca is growing quickly, and changing every day. He rolls over, usually when no one is watching, and we have just started him (very little) on solids. Bananas were his first food. I absolutely love taking him to bed at night and rocking him for a just a few minutes before he goes to sleep. He looks at me like he knows things - I tell Jonathan I think he has an old soul. I am not with him on Thur or Fri nights, and every time first thing the next morning, he'll wake up and look at me like "there you are!" and just completely relax with me. He's a very happy baby, and he is eagerly trying to sit up and see the world. He loves his big brother, and laughs and talks when Gabriel gives him hugs.

He's my little love nugget

Our Loves

2010-02-02T18:57:00.000-08:00

This was taken at the end of January...and you can totally see that these boys are related. They are the sweetest kids. Jonathan and I are so very blessed, and could not be happier.

Out of Order....Our Family Christmas Photo

2010-02-02T18:46:00.000-08:00

I think everyone saw our card with our family photo...but our friend, Rob took a beautiful picture of Gabriel as well. He is such a special little boy. I love to just hang out with him, however I feel like I just don't have that much time to anymore. It makes me sad thinking about how fast he is growing up and not needing "mommy" time. He says the sweetest things, such as telling me a few weeks ago that he wanted "to marry with me". I'm okay with that. I know it won't last long.

My Little Luca in January

2010-02-02T18:36:00.000-08:00

Wow, they grow faster the second time around!! I stay so much busier that I don't even take pictures of my sweet baby!! The first child gets his photo taken 100 times an hour...and this one you forget to for weeks. But here is around 3 months. He is looking more and more like Gabriel, however he is definitely his own little person. He is such a happy baby - and very chilled. He cries very little, but smiles and laughs often. He is sleeping 12 hours a night, and absolutely adores his big brother. The same goes for the way Gabriel feels about him. He tells me all the time that Luca is his very best friend. I pray that this is how it will be when they are grown, as well.

Hockey in Vegas

2010-02-02T18:22:00.000-08:00

Jonathan went to his annual hockey tournament in Vegas with the team from Hanscom in November. Yes....he left me alone with a four year old and a 6 week old. :o) I survived, though. And he had a great time. He deserved some guy time...and definitely was due for some good hockey. They won the tournament, and he came back with a snazzy sweatshirt for me. Maybe next year I'll get to go and support him.

Holidays 2009

2010-02-02T17:30:00.001-08:00

Okay - so, since I am so behind, I'm going to just cluster the past couple of months. Thanksgiving was nice here in Georgia...of course with Gabriel and Luca, everything is more exciting....and hectic. I didn't get any pictures of Thanksgiving, OR Christmas. Terrible! We do have video of Gabriel Christmas morning, which was fantastic, but the rest of the day kind of went down hill. My grandmother was admitted to the hospital that morning, so we did not go any where to celebrate. Two days after we packed up the car and kids and headed for Connecticut to visit Jonathan's family. This too turned out to be not such a great time. We ended up in the hospital with Luca with pneumonia. After several days in the hospital, we packed up again to head home...only to find out on each morning of our drive that we had a flat tire (two times) and had to finally just have our back tires replaced before heading out of Virgina. Needless to say, we were very happy when all was said and done, and we made it back home in one piece.

We did, however, get to visit quickly with some of the family, and we got to meet two new cousins, and introduce Luca as well. AND, I got a picture. :o)

Now, right before Christmas, we had Santa visit our house, and all of the neighbors brought their children over for a little party. We had a nice time, and the kids were thrilled. Gabriel was quick to talk to Santa, and he wanted to know where his reindeer were. We loved celebrating the holidays with our new addition - but, honestly, we hope they turn out a little easier and healthier next year.

Sal & Jen with Eliana; Scofields; Nonna; Nick & Julia with Lucia Luca isn't big on Santa

Mimi with little Luca

Addison with Santa

(Poor sick Gabriel...he had a terrible cold)

Gabriel's Christmas program at school

What a little angel...

Jonathan and Steve putting up the tree

Work In Progress

2010-01-16T18:25:00.000-08:00

I'm working to get pictures together to update....I know I'm WAY behind, and Luca is growing faster than I can post.

Check back soon.

Luca's 2 Month Stats

2009-12-10T08:02:00.000-08:00

Luca is growing so fast! It's true what they say that it goes by faster the second time around. He is such a happy baby, and gives smiles to us whenever we talk to him. He is sleeping a good 8-9 hours a night, so we are feeling pretty good around here. Gabriel still loves him, and is so proud every time he gets the chance to show off his "little broder".

I took him for his 2-month checkup, and he was all smiles - which made me feel bad that he had to get shots! This is the picture I actually took at the doctors while we were waiting.

Weight: 13.9 lbs

Height: 23 inch

(another healthy Scofield boy!)

Friends, Thanksgiving Party and Smiles

2009-11-23T04:07:00.000-08:00

I'm throwing a handful of new pictures in here. Last week my friend, April, and her two kids came over. She has a boy, Carson, that is 6 months older than Gabriel, and a little girl, Brooklyn that is 3 weeks older than Luca. It's nice to get together and the let the boys play, and to have some adult conversation as well. Gabriel had his Thanksgiving feast at school on Friday, and his class were Indians. It was cute, and Gabriel was excited that his daddy and his GeeDaw were able to make it.

Our baby is full of smiles. It's amazing what a smile can do to you - it just melts your heart.

Some Gabriel Updates

2009-11-23T04:01:00.000-08:00

Gabriel came home from school last week, and asked "Mommy, do you know what I'm thankful for? I'm thankful for God." I said "that's very nice...what else are you thankful for?" he said "God's brother" I asked "you mean God's son?" and he said "yeah, him too."

We brought Gabriel into our church service on Sunday, because there was a sick child that had been in his class, and the entire service Jonathan and I took turns hushing Gabriel. He wanted to talk to us, and instead of using a quiet whisper voice, he would talk louder so he could be louder than the Pastor. He kept asking "is this over yet? How much longer" At the end of the service as soon as the Pastor was done, Gabriel stood up and said "Wow..that was really nice."

Jonathan took a trip to Las Vegas a week ago, and sent us a picture via phone in front of a sign that said Las Vegas. I showed it to Gabriel and he said "Is Daddy in Begas?" so I showed him the words and I said "Daddy's in Las Vegas"...he looked at me and asked "Daddy's lost?"

Little Luca Pictures

2009-11-15T03:19:00.000-08:00

Here are a couple of updated pics of my baby boy. He is almost 6 weeks old, and I'm amazed at how fast it goes by. I was holding him yesterday, and walking around trying to get some things done. Realizing he was sure was still, I looked down to see if he was asleep, and he was just staring at me. So I smiled at him, and he just grinned right back. Warmed my heart, that smile. It makes everything else okay. Funny how that doesn't change - I can be in a bad mood, and even Gabriel can give me a sweet smile and melt me.

I even managed to get out one morning and meet my friends Kristi and Jeannie. Kristi had a little boy, Luke, two weeks before Luca was born, and we had not been able to see each other's babies yet. Kristi and I have been friends since before either of us can even remember, and it's pretty cool that now we have two boys each, and our youngest are just two weeks apart. I'll enjoy watching them grow up together.

Sweet, sleeping baby

I had to throw a picture of Gabriel, too
Luca and Luke

Gabriel and Mommy Time

2009-11-13T04:29:00.000-08:00

I took Gabriel to the park one day, just him and I. It was a beautiful day, and I thought he could use some just "him" time. He has been excellent with adjusting to the baby in the house. I feel guilty a lot of times because I have to tell him to wait on things or I can't do things, but he is very good and patient when it comes to Luca. I look forward to Luca getting a little older so they can play together. Here are a few pics I took of my sweet boy at the park.

And one of my boys in matching shirts, with their daddy

Luca Joe - 1 Month Checkup

2009-11-13T04:24:00.000-08:00

Stats at 1 month:

11 lbs, 11 oz

22 1/2 inches long

- Making him 90% in weight & 75% in length

What can I say? We have big boys! :o) He is starting to smile and is more alert. We are still trying to figure out this sleeping at night thing. I like routine and a schedule, and so far he insists on doing it his way. Maybe the next update I'll have good news on that front.

Halloween Fun

2009-11-12T17:11:00.000-08:00

For Halloween this year we started the weekend before with a little pumpkin carving with our neighbors - we ended up with two, which I forgot to take a picture of the finished product. Then, we went to a trunk or treat at my dad and step-moms church, and then for Halloween, we had our neighbors, The Bairds, come over for dinner, a Halloween movie and then off for trick or treating. The weather was a little wet, but it didn't keep Gabriel and Addison from hitting up a few homes. It was a nice time, and we couldn't ask for better neighbor/friends to hang with.

Gabriel's Fall Party at School

Praying before they eat - he's so darn cute!

Moonlight Halloween Run

2009-10-25T09:29:00.000-07:00

We signed Gabriel up for his first run this year, the Tot Trot. I was the such the proud momma cheering him on...and he did great until he crossed the finish line and his tummy hurt him. MY FAULT. I had the great idea we would go eat dinner before the run. Lesson learned. The picture is not that great since there was no lighting where he did his run.

2 Weeks as a Family of Four

2009-10-24T07:22:00.001-07:00

Just an update - we are a little sleepy, but extremely happy. I love every minute with both Gabriel and Luca, and watching Gabriel interact with his little brother. I know these moments will go by so fast, and I've heard that the second child is faster than the first. So, even though we are still working out our night time routine, I try not to complain about it, and just enjoy the time cuddling Luca and it being just him and me. He still has a head full of black hair, that I'm hoping he keeps, and his eyes are very dark brown, and when he is awake Gabriel calls him Bright Eyes. There are tons of kisses here, and so far Gabriel has fully embraced the role as big brother with no jealousy. We are looking forward to our first family trip up to CT in December so Jonathan's family can meet our little Luca Joe. I'll keep posting pictures fairly often, since little ones change so much and so quickly.

I'm Complete

2009-10-11T14:21:00.001-07:00

Luciano Joseph Scofield

2009-10-11T07:39:00.000-07:00

October 5th, 2009 at 8:41 am - another wonderful day for a miracle.
9lbs 8.4 oz and 20 inches long

Jonathan and I left early in the morning for our exciting trip to the hospital to meet our son. We decided on a c-section this time, and it was definitely the best decision. It was nice and easy, and we were able to hold our newborn son in just a matter of an hour from the time we started. When they first brought Luca over to me, I was a little taken back, since all I knew was Gabriel, and Luca looked so different to me at first. Each day, however, I see a little of Gabriel in his face and expressions. Luca has black hair as of now, and seems to be darker skin than Gabriel, but only time will tell. When I look at him, I see Jonathan, which is wonderful to see the man you love in your children. Makes you realize the miracle of two people coming together in one. He is such a mild, relaxed baby, and big brother couldn't be happier. Gabriel is taking this role serious with no complaining or jealousy. He loves to kiss and hold his little brother, and help us in any way he can. We thought our family was complete when we had Gabriel, and now looking back, I can't imagine not having Luca with us. I would never imagined that I would be the mother of two boys, and I couldn't be happier. I love being a mom, and I have been at complete peace since having him.

Gabriel Turns 4!

2009-10-11T07:29:00.000-07:00

Well, it just keeps coming....birthdays for my baby. Which, I guess I can't really call him a baby anymore, especially since we'll have a new baby soon. With me being 37 weeks pregnant, we opted to have a care-free party for him at an Air Jump facility nearby. All I had to do was send out invites, and bring a cake. Easy and hassle free! :o) And the kiddos had a fantastic time. Gabriel loves telling everyone he is 4, and he had a wonderful time with all of his friends at the Jump and Slide.

I'm amazed at how fast time goes by, and Jonathan and I are very aware that he is growing up faster each day. We make every effort to enjoy every minute, and not wish him grown too fast. We make a big deal about his accomplishments, and encourage him in all he does. He is the most loving, sweet, sensitive, funny, smart and precious boy I have ever met, and I thank God daily that Jonathan and I have been given this short time called childhood, to share with him. So, as another year passes, I look back at it and smile at what a wonderful time we have had together, and look forward to each day as it brings a new adventure with my son.

Gabriel's Big Boy Bike

Baby Shower

2009-10-11T07:24:00.000-07:00

My friend, Amanda, threw me a beautiful baby shower at a lovely place in Douglasville. It was a house that was also used for Teas and Weddings. I really didn't need a lot of things, since we are having this baby right around the same time we had Gabriel, so, he should be able to wear Gabriel's clothes easily. But, I did stock up on diapers, formula and other fun items that needed to be replaced or that are just needed for everyday use.

We kept it a small group, with just some close friends and family - and out of the 12 people that came, 4 of us were expecting! Very exciting to be sharing this phase of our lives together, and know that our babies will grow up together.

Unfortunately, I forgot my camera, so I have a few pics of me opening gifts, and one of me and Amanda. I wish I had gotten one of the group.

Gabrielism

2009-09-11T09:35:00.000-07:00

I was brushing Gabriel's teeth one night, and I was getting the front top when he informed me that "I hurt his horsey". What?? He told me that's what the top of the gum is called over his front teeth!

We came home to find a dead catapillar in the garage, so I told Gabriel to kick it out. He studied it for a minute, and said "it's not dead, that's it's hockey!" Jonathan had told Gabriel a few weeks ago that a shell left behind by a bug was like the hockey pads that Gabriel wears.

I took Gabriel to my Dr. appt. this week....alone. So, I told him he had to sit in the chair behind the curtain while the dr. did my exam. He did as he was told...and a few minutes into my exam I hear "Momma, is the Dr. doing something gross?"

Gabriel Starts 3yr Pre-K

2009-09-08T17:42:00.000-07:00

Another school year has started, and of course, I cried when I dropped him off. He went in with no problem this year, after telling me he cried last year because he was a little boy, but he is a big boy now. He also met a new friend, but didn't know the little boy's name. I guess we'll find that out later in the year. Here are a few pictures I took this morning of my proud little man.

A Boy and His Dog

2009-09-04T08:38:00.000-07:00

Gabriel and Bailey

Jonathan's 30th Birthday

2009-09-04T08:35:00.000-07:00

We had a low-key night for Jonathan, since, well...I'm pretty low-key these days. We had a nice dinner, and then cupcakes. Here are the only pictures we got - and yes, that's a real belly on me. It's not a prop. :o)

Here's a Belly Shot - 32 Weeks

2009-08-14T15:13:00.001-07:00

Several people have told me I should post some...and I just haven't. So, here is this week's picture. At 30 weeks, I was measuring 34, so, we'll see what they say when I go back this week.

I should just collect these and post them at once...

2009-08-01T07:48:00.001-07:00

Jonathan asked me if I was writing these down...I'm trying!! :o) It's hard to keep up with what comes out of the mouth of a little one.

Gabriel asked me if God was going to fix the hole. "What hole?" I asked. "The hole that God makes when the baby comes." I answered, "Yes, God will fix the hole." And he said, "don't worry mommy. When you see the Dr. just breath and push." (Maybe I should stop watching the birth stories on discovery! I guess he secretly pays attention and is taking notes for me!)

Trying to keep up with Gabriel

2009-07-29T08:05:00.001-07:00

He is really concerned on how this baby is coming out of my belly, and the pain that I will experience with it. He questioned me again on where exactly it would come out, and I again answered that God makes a special hole for the baby. Again, he wanted to know if this would hurt - I told him yes, it would hurt a little, but that is why God made mommies so strong. He asked, is that why God made vegetables?

We were driving in the car to an indoor air jump, and he told me that when he got big he was going to be a mommy. I laughed, and said, no sweetie, you'll be a daddy. He said, no. I want to be a mommy, because mommy means loving you so much. :o) Maybe I am doing something right here.

Gabriel strikes again...

2009-07-23T13:57:00.000-07:00

I went to pick up Gabriel from school today, and his teacher asked if his daddy was camping in Colorado. I answered yes, but how did she know. She said Gabriel told the class, and then informed the class that his daddy was pee peeing outside, too.

Improved front yard

2009-07-23T08:11:00.001-07:00

We just had some work done on our front yard, and I am very pleased with how it turned out. We had a wall built up to level out one side, and filled with bushes along with two trees against the front of the house, and two maples out in the front yard. Summer project - done. Next year, maybe we can liven up our back yard.

Ohhhhh Gabriel

2009-07-22T04:45:00.001-07:00

I was just talking to Gabriel the other day while we were getting ready, and I asked him some question and his answer to me? "Fo Sho" What?!!! I'm trying to find out where in the world he heard this, and I have decided to put the blame on Rob. :o) I think him and Jonathan were joking around and said that, however Jonathan doesn't think it was him.

So Rob it is.

Atlanta Zoo and Rock Climbing

2009-07-21T04:50:00.000-07:00

Looking for things to keep Gabriel busy, I opted to take him to the Atlanta Zoo. It wasn't nearly as cool as I remember from my childhood. Not sure why, but it just seemed a little dull. He wasn't overly impressed, until we found a rock climbing wall. I wasn't sure he would be able to do it, but he thought it was pretty cool. He got a little over my height, and then would repel down. The coming down was his favorite part. He said when he gets bigger he can go all the way up and ring the bell.

The petting zoo - okay - just goats and sheep.

Patiently waiting for his turn to climb.

He thought he looked so cool - getting ready to climb.

Here we go!

Just about there....and he's done.

Work Like Daddy

2009-07-17T04:46:00.001-07:00

Gabriel got up this morning and told me he had to some work today like daddy so he could make money and give it to me. Hmmm.......so, I asked him "do I work?" He said, "no, you play with me."

4th of July in CT

2009-07-08T13:32:00.000-07:00

We spent a week up north with Jonathan's crew, and had a wonderful time. We got to see a great deal of the family at the 4th of July party, and we even got to spend a day at the beach. It was beautiful weather, and I didn't take nearly enough pictures.

One morning we got up to go to Dunkin Donuts, and Gabriel told me he had to go with me, so that no one would take me. :o) What can I say? My boy loves me!

No Doubt Concert

2009-06-20T04:55:00.001-07:00

Jonathan and I went on a cool date to see No Doubt in concert. The benefit of being older when you go to concerts?? You may not look as cool as the 20-somethings, but at least you can afford better seats. ;o) We had a great time, and have already decided that we should do concerts more often. This was our first....well, other than a Cher concert that we had free tickets to in Florida. But, does that really count??

Fun in the Sun

2009-06-20T04:33:00.001-07:00

One of our first of many hot days, we tried to figure out what we could outside, AND stay cool. So, we started with a little frog sprinkler - which Gabriel enjoyed enough. It couldn't keep me cool enough. So, we next turned on our sprinkler system and just ran through them - which was actually a lot of fun. I also invested $5 in a slip-n-slide, which Gabriel thinks is the coolest. Now we have also added a local water park and Mimi's swimming pool to our weekly list of things-to-do-to-stay-cool.

End of the Year Program

2009-06-20T04:29:00.000-07:00

Gabriel's preschool has an end of the year program where the 4 year olds "graduate". I got a little teary-eyed, and Gabriel still has a couple of years before he "graduates". I only took a couple of pics, but we have some video that I will try to get on the blog soon.

Me and my sweet boy

He thinks he is so cool with his spiked hair and sunglasses

Myrtle Beach

2009-06-20T04:03:00.000-07:00

We took a little vacation with Jonathan's parents back at the end of May. I've been a little slow getting the pictures up, but here is a slide show of some of our trip. It was cold and rainy for the first couple of days, but then we got to the beach one good day, and everyone got pretty bad sunburns - except Gabriel. All in all it was a very nice trip.

Little Scofield Boy

2009-05-30T12:56:00.000-07:00

Here is our ultrasound pic...my sweet sweet baby. :o)

For all of you that voted Girl.....

2009-05-27T15:06:00.000-07:00

You were wrong!
Another little Boy Scofield is on his way. I will have the picture posted hopefully tonight. I have to wait for Jonathan to hook up our home computer. He's a cutie! And he's probably going to be big like his big brother, so we will expect him before his due date.

What Will it Be????

2009-05-22T18:09:00.000-07:00

So, Wednesday, the 27th is our big day for our ultrasound. Interesting to see that 15 people voted girl, with only 3 boys. Hmmmm..... We'll see if majority knows! I'll post as soon as I get home!

18 Week Checkup

2009-05-12T12:53:00.000-07:00

I had my regular checkup yesterday, and took Gabriel with me, since he enjoys holding my hand while they check my blood pressure, and hearing the baby's heart beat. All is going just fine with the baby, and I will go for an ultrasound in 2 weeks. STILL not sure if we will find out the sex.

While we were in the waiting room, Gabriel picked up two magazines and gave one to me, saying "this one is for me because it has a boy on it, and this book is for you, mommy, because she has a big belly like you." Several "big belly ladies" in the room looked our way and chuckled.

Wedding in Florida

2009-05-12T12:51:00.000-07:00

We went down to Florida last weekend for my brother's wedding. It was a very nice visit, just short. Here are some pictures from the event.

"I'm a Hockey Player!"

2009-05-12T12:15:00.000-07:00

Jonathan has introduced Gabriel to Hockey, in the form of ice skating. Gabriel calls it Hockey, because he has seen Jonathan play, and assumes that's just what it is. Jonathan got all the pads and the skates for Gabriel to wear, including his helmet. The first time he was out there, we thought he would probably be tired within 15 minutes to half an hour, however, he hung in there for 2 hours...and we still had to make him leave. Jonathan, on the other hand, was pooped. Gabriel even made a little friend, a 5 year old dressed in hockey gear, that is taking lessons. They are meeting up again this Friday.

Happy Mother's Day!

2009-05-09T18:35:00.001-07:00

"It is one thing to be a man's wife - quite another to be the mother of his children. In fact, once you become a mother, being a wife seems like a game you once played." -- Kelly Corrigan

We are sending Love, Hugs, Kisses and Prayers to all of our Moms! Hope everyone has a beautiful day. Attached is little video of Gabriel singing me a song that he sang at a Mother's Day Tea. I'll type the words in case you can't hear/understand him.

"I wish I had a little red box to put my mommy in,
I'd take her out and *kiss, kiss, kiss* and put her back again.
I wish I had a little red box to put my grandma in,
I'd take her out and *hug, hug, hug* and put her back again.
I wish I had a little red box to put sweet ladies in,
I'd take them out and *Happy Mother's Day* and put them back again."

Babies, Babies!!!

2009-05-06T03:27:00.000-07:00

I am adding a side link to my blog (thanks for the idea, Becca!) to keep up with all of our friends and family who are having babies. We received a phone call from one of our cousins last night, that they are due with their first Dec. 2nd. So, with that one, I decided I needed a way to keep up with, and also share with the family and friends that follow my blog. I will update as these babies come into the world. Very exciting!

Easter Egg Hunting

2009-05-03T09:56:00.000-07:00

These are little late in the posting sequence, but here is the video in two parts of Gabriel getting up Easter morning to find what the Easter Bunny left for him.

From the Mouth of Gabriel...

2009-04-30T04:05:00.000-07:00

I laugh more these days just listening to my son talk, then anything else. And he talks ALL the time. He is very animated, and gets frustrated if he can't think of the right word to say on his own and will finally say "you tell me" - and sometimes I have no idea what he is thinking and that just makes him more upset.

Everything is a negotiation. "If I eat all my dinner, I get 5 marshmallows" - no, you get 3, "what about 4"; when it's time to leave someplace that he is having a good time he'll do the "we'll leave in 2 minutes...NO 3 minutes, okay mommy?"

Monsters seem to be his favorite topic right now - he watches them on movies, draws pictures of them, even pretends my curling iron is one (without teeth) and my hairbrush is the one with teeth. Yesterday I was telling him that if he is outside and someone pulls their car up to our house and I'm not with him, for him to run into the house and not to talk to them. This wasn't good enough for him - he wanted to know why. So, I told him, there are some bad people out there, and someone might try to put him in their car and take him. He thought this over for a minute and asked excitedly "are they monsters??" Not sure he got the point. We'll keep trying.

He loves that he knows his full name along with Jonathan and my name. (However, he never remembers I have a middle name). And he actually refers to me as Amy quite often now...thinking it's funny. His grandmother was asking him what all of our names were the other day, and he got his right...mine right...and then when she asked what his daddy's name is he answered "Jonathan Thomas-The-Train Scofield".

Lastly for this post, Gabriel insists that the baby is a boy, and has decided the name of the baby will be..............................Fido.

Where do Babies come from......

2009-04-15T16:36:00.000-07:00

Gabriel was talking to the baby tonight, and then he sat up and rubbed my belly, and said "mommy, I was a baby in your tummy, and I had hiccups....did that hurt you mommy?" I assured him it didn't hurt, so the conversation continued with him asking "but how did I come OUT of your tummy?" So, thinking I could just ease through this, I told him mommy and daddy went to hospital and the Dr. pulled him out of my tummy. He sat there for a minute looking at me, and finally said "But WHERE did he pull me out from?" I just looked back at him....lucky for me he has a short attention span and all of a sudden decided he wanted a donut. :o)

Easter

2009-04-13T10:32:00.001-07:00

I don't remember having so many egg hunts when I was a kid, but Gabriel participated in 6 this year. Yes, 6. So, needless to say, we'll have candy hid away until next year. He had two parties during his class, one big one at his school, one for our church, the "Easter Bunny" left eggs in the house on Easter morning, and then he got to look again at his grandparents. (However, they actually HID them, so it took the adults looking to find them.) ;o)

We had a beautiful day, and kept reminding Gabriel the real reason for the day. I even prepped him with a Veggie Tales movie called 'Easter Carol' that explained it. However, that evening, Jonathan and I seemed to approach our first "real" discussion. It started when Gabriel asked why Jesus had boo boos on his hands (in the movie) - so, Jonathan tried his best to explain....by the end, Gabriel walked over to me and said "Momma - do you know why Jesus died? He died so he can live in our hearts. There were some mean people that gave Jesus boo boos, and he died on a tree." And he walked out of the room.

Sweetwater Park

2009-04-13T10:26:00.000-07:00

We had a rare beautiful day in the middle of what felt like weeks of cold rain, so Gabriel and I strapped on our boots and went "hiking" at Sweetwater park. I have not taken him yet, due to the fact that I didn't want to end up carrying him if he got tired. I thought he was ready now. We made it half a mile when I decided he might be only good for another 1/2 and we should turn around and head back. This brought on a mild temper tantrum, so I pretended to be going another way...he followed for a short while, and then told me he was all out of energy and couldn't walk anymore. Arghh!!! The last bit was uphill, so I got in my workout for the day toting a little boy up the path. I think he really enjoyed it, however next time............we go with daddy! :o)

My Sweet 32...

2009-04-13T10:18:00.000-07:00

So, I enjoy birthdays. Really. I actually embrace them, and end up celebrating for at least 3 days. This year was fairly quiet, which at this point in my life, is pretty nice. :o) Gabriel brought me flowers, I got a cool pasta maker from my husband, and I was able to have some of my family over for birthday cake.

Disney World

2009-03-12T06:41:00.000-07:00

We had such a wonderful, but quick time in Disney World last week. And it was even more of a pleasure that we were able to spend some time with some friends of our, The Vrabecs. Gabriel and Abby enjoy seeing and playing with each other. It's a shame they can't see each other more often. I guess we the parents really should make more of an effort. (It's me, Cheyna!! I'm going to come that way before you move....promise!!)

We ended up spending 3 full days in Disney, two spent at Magic Kingdom and one day at Animal Kingdom. I could have spent the whole time at Magic Kingdom, that place is amazing!! And the light parade and fireworks were really just magical. I have so many pictures, so the easiest way to share them is to put them on a slide show. I hope the next time we go, we can spend it with more family and friends. It's just such a cool place!