Shan, Dev, Rea and Win

And we're back...

2012-01-30T18:58:00.000-08:00

Hi, folks. I'm back. Tomorrow marks the last day of January and I can honestly say that I have survived one heck of a month!

Aside from being a tad "stopped up," Mattie is doing great. She's filling out, eating every 4 hours, starting to make eye contact and just as cute as she can be. Reagan loves on her a little too hard sometimes, but loves her baby sister to pieces. The first two weeks were ROUGH (emotional, sleepy, overwhelming, etc.) and ended with some tears as my mom went back to her real house. (I'm still trying to convince her that she and my dad need to buy a lot and build in our neighborhood) She did have to go and we had to start living real life eventually. And we have. Go me!
I always like hearing birth stories, so I thought I'd write Mattie's. Don't worry, I don't get too graphic.
Here goes it...
We moved on January 2nd. I 'thought' that would allow plenty of nesting time since I wasn't due until January 18th (which had been moved up from the 25th) Reagan and Winnie stayed with my parents after Grandaddy's funeral so that Devin and I could get things done without helpers stopping our progress.
The 2nd was a busy day, but we got it done. Tuesday the 3rd (my sister's birthday) was spent getting our new washer and dryer and a pedicure. The nail techs warned me that they had put women in labor more than once with their mad massage skills. I welcomed the risk, not thinking it was a reality.
That afternoon, my mom brought Reagan and Winnie back home and started helping me do a few things around the new casa. That night, as Reagan was getting ready for bed, I felt a random gush. (gross, I know. that's as graphic as I'll get.) I have never had any "issues" with bladder control, so I thought this was very strange. About 15 minutes later it happened again. So strange. I told myself that if it happened a third time I would call my doctor. It didn't happen. Luckily, I had a doctor's appointment the next morning at 9:20. With that thought in mind, I went on to bed.

Wednesday morning I woke up feeling a little funny. Around 7:30 I had a weird cramp. 5 minutes later, another one. 5 minutes after that, yet another. And so on. I told Devin to go on to work and I would call him if this was the real deal. My mom thought she better drive me to my appointment "just in case" and we decided to bring my hospital bag, too. She and I dropped Reagan off at preschool and went on our merry way...all the while I had cramping every 5ish minutes.
When I got to the doctor I told them something was up. I'm not sure if they believed me because it didn't seem like the message had reached Dr. Murray when she came into the room. She did a little test to see if my water had broken and told me that my strange gushes must have been something else. Say what?! Anyway, she examined me and I was dilated 3 cm. After assessing the situation, she decided that something was happening and sent me down to labor and delivery to be hooked up to monitors.

I arrived at labor and delivery around 10:30 or 10:45. My nurse was wonderful! We clicked right away. After my i.v. was in (not easily...had to dig around with the needle) and the monitors hooked up, my nurse told me I wasn't going home. I was contracting some every minute. Like whoa. I called Devin and told him it was really labor day and to hop on his horse and get to the hospital. (By the way, my nurse told me my gushes were probably a high rupture in my water)
Dr. Murray came in and broke my water and I was 5 cm. Contractions started getting stronger after that and I asked for my epidural. My next check, I was 7 cm. The anesthesiologist came in and administered the drugs (water continuing to gush as I sat hunched over a pillow). I waited and nothing. It was hurting. BAD. A few minutes later, nothing. A little longer. NOTHING. My next check I was dilated 9 cm. and my epidural WASN'T. WORKING. Finally, after 3 doses of drugs, wishing for death, about 45 minutes to an hour of I-can't-even-speak-pain and repositioning the line, my epidural started to work. I was 10 cm.
Mattie was not very far into the birth canal and her heart rate started dropping. I was so happy to finally be numb that I didn't really think much about the whole team of people in my room. They had me wait (at 10 cm) to see if she would drop further down and she didn't. Her heart rate was low and staying that way. Finally, after about a half hour, my doctor said I could push for an hour and a half, but she wouldn't let me. The baby needed to come out. So, there it was. Another C-Section for me. Honestly, I was ok with it. I wanted to see what it was like to go into labor on my own and I had. Off to the operating room we went.

This time was different than before. For one thing, the anesthesiologist was so nice and a lot more attentive than the jerk from the first time. He even massaged my shoulders when they started hurting from laying flat and spinal fluid leaking up. The radio was on and playing some of my favorite music. I was wheeled in to Aerosmith and during delivery Queen's Under Pressure was playing. (Seriously)
At 2:48 Mattingly Jo ("Mattie") Garofalo was born. She was pink and perfect. She weighed 7lbs. 9 oz. and was 20 inches long. She looks a lot like Reagan, but has different ears and eyes. It will be fun to see her change over the next few months.
My hospital stay was great. I didn't want to go home! My nurses were awesome and the quiet was wonderful.
Going home was hard. My house didn't feel like a home. Thank heaven for my mom. She cooked, cleaned, unpacked, did laundry, walked Winnie, drove Reagan to preschool, picked up carloads from the other house, you name it. What would I have done without her?

I experienced a whirlwind and needed some time to catch my breath. I'm thankful Mattie decided to come early and I didn't have to spend one more day pregnant. I haven't slept on my stomach yet, but I have a feeling it will be soon. Oh happy day!

How much can a person accomplish (survive?) in a week and a half?

2012-01-10T09:11:00.000-08:00

How about this:
Have Christmas and New Year's
Lose and bury a grandparent
Close on a new house
Move into said house
Have a baby

It's true. I can do hard things. I am doing hard things. Very quickly. I'm fine. Just feeling out of place (this house doesn't feel like home yet and my mom (God bless her) has had to do a lot of my nesting for me since I literally can't). I'm feeling emotional (read above). I'm feeling overwhelmed. No offense to anyone, but I just want to be in my bubble for a little while.

This, too, shall pass. I sure have a cute baby to hold in the process. And, Reagan. Oh, Reagan. This has been a lot for her 3-year-old-self to take in. Each day is better and for that I'm grateful.

Stay tuned, readers. I WILL be back. Just let me catch my breath.

To everything there is a season...

2011-12-30T06:18:00.000-08:00

I think it's my turn to write something on here about the events of this week. To be honest, this is the first time I'm sitting down to my computer and not my iPhone.
Christmas evening was spent at my grandparents' apartment in Fairfax. The quote, "keeping watch over their flocks by night" comes to mind. In this case, the flocks were the ones keeping watch. My grandfather was transitioning into the next life right before our very eyes and all we could do was keep watch and wonder, with every pause in breathing, if that was, in fact, it.
He was never a touchy-feely man. In fact, I think the only memories I have of touching him are while he was laying in that hospital bed on Sunday and I touched his hand. His body was so thin and weak and frail...certainly not the Grandaddy I've known my whole life.
We left the apartment that night knowing the end was near and hoping it wouldn't drag on much longer than it already had. If you knew my grandfather, he did nothing quickly (leave a social gathering, open wrapped gifts, eat, etc.) and so was the case with his death. Wait, I take that back, his wit was quick, but other than that, he certainly took his time. (Imagine Todd as an old man)

We were planning on heading home Monday night, but decided to get up Tuesday morning to make the drive instead. I'm so glad we stayed. Around 5:30, Devin came in to tell me that Grandaddy was gone. He heard my parents wake up and rush over to be with Mana and told them he'd come tell me. The events of that morning were very calm and still. Thankfully. I'm thankful that some unseen power woke my grandmother up so she could hold and comfort him while he slipped from this life into the next. I'm thankful that Todd and I could drive there together to experience the calm of his death before the chaos set in. I'm thankful that my dad is a funeral director and could care for my grandfather's body like no one else could. I'm thankful for a grandmother who kept her marriage vows and cared for my grandfather for many years, even when she was tired, frustrated and weary. I'm thankful that she is now free to live her life without the responsibility of caring for Grandaddy at all times. And I am thankful that I had a grandfather close-by and involved in my life for almost 30 years.
If you needed help with your car, he was there. If you had a school concert, he was there. Birthday dinner? There. Holiday? There. No, he was not a hugger, but he was there. And that, my friends, is what really matters.
Rest in peace, Grandaddy. 'Til we meet again...

To quote my dear friend Randy Jackson...

2011-12-22T15:56:00.001-08:00

"Here's what's up."
We are two days away from Christmas Eve! Holy guacamole! I have more shopping to do. I've been sick all week. AAAGGGHHH!!
I went to the doctor yesterday and when she came in the room she laughed and asked, "What are you growing in there?" Um... The ultra sound tech hadn't told me anything, so I was a little surprised when my doc informed me that if I went into labor in the next two weeks that would be fine. Baby #2 is already measuring 6 1/2 - 7 lbs. and I have over a month to go. I have never really believed the 25th was my real due date, so I'm not totally shocked. I would really like to go into labor on my own in the next 2-3 weeks. But, I realize it's out of my hands. What's meant to happen will happen.
I need to get through Christmas weekend first, then our move over New Year's weekend. After that, I'm fine with a baby. Well, give me a few days to put my clothes in my dresser and the silverware in the drawer.
Stay tuned...

Oops!

2011-12-13T13:40:00.000-08:00

Somehow I erased the rest of the pictures. Enjoy!

The Man. The Myth. The "Legend."

2011-12-13T13:28:00.000-08:00

Miss Rea Rea is one lucky lady! Her preschool is the only one in the greater Richmond area that gets a visit each year from the "Legendary Santa." He's kind of a big deal around these parts.

As a matter of fact, this special St. Nick used to be the one and only Miller & Rhoads Santa back in the good ol' days. (He's pushing about 85 and his yellowed wig and beard are proof) He's a member of the church where Reagan attends preschool and takes time out of his busy Christmas schedule to visit with the little kiddies. It was a BIG day!

Rea waited patiently for her turn atop his knee, told him she wanted 3 Barbies for Christmas, then dined on a PLATE (yes, plate...a bit much? I sure enjoyed the leftovers :) of cookies. A fun time was had by all.

Zapped!

2011-11-17T12:29:00.000-08:00

My energy. That's what's zapped. The only cure? Not being pregnant. Trying to take some breaks throughout the day so that cure doesn't happen too early. Just get me through Christmas. Oy vey!
Being big and pregnant, having a toddler and planning a move in, ahem...a month, is exhausting. Calgon, take me away.

Casa Update

2011-11-08T13:11:00.001-08:00

For those of you who have been wondering...
We went in for our pre-drywall walk through yesterday. As of today (and since he said we could lock in, I believe him) we do our final walk through on December 15th and close on the 19th. Holy cow, it's real. The same week we close, I start my once a week doctor's appointments. Talk about time flying by!
The siding is mostly finished and the front stone work should begin any day. Here are some pictures. I'll take some more of the exterior once the stone is on.

Hello, Dolly!

2011-11-08T13:00:00.000-08:00

Devin, Reagan and I spent the weekend in the beautiful Smoky Mountains. Pigeon Forge, to be exact. It was a quick trip, but a pretty drive. The highlight of the trip? Dollywood, of course! I had been once before, but I think I was about 4 years old. Since I'm a little bit prego, I enjoyed the walk. Dev and Rea enjoyed the rides. The Christmas lights were up, so it was a great way to kick off the holidays.
On the way home, we stopped by my Aunt and Uncle's house in Newport, VA. It was a great way to break up the trip and spend some time together. Reagan loved taking a walk with my Uncle Paul to see a pond and visit with a horse down the road. Just before we left, my cousin called to say she saw a black bear cross the road on her way out. We didn't see him, but sorta wanted to. Maybe another time!

Happy Howl-O-Ween!

2011-11-08T12:41:00.000-08:00

This year, Halloween seemed to last forever. On the actual day, I woke Reagan up by saying "Happy Halloween." Her reply, "Again?" How true, Rea. How true. It was fun while it lasted though.
The Thursday before H'ween, Reagan's pre-school had their costume parade and class parties. Devin and I listened to Reagan and the other kiddies sing some holiday songs they had been learning, then walk, class by class, to show off their wares. (Disney Pixar stock must have skyrocketed in preparation for this big holiday. We saw many a Buzz Lightyear and Woody from Toy Story) What was Reagan dressed as this year? Dorothy, of course! After that, we mosied over to Reagan's room to have our first class party of the year.
Saturday, was the ward Trunk or Treat. Devin played along with me and we dressed as a theme this year. With Dorothy already chosen, Dev and I morphed into the Wicked Witch of the West (good thing my graduation robe is one size fits most) and the Scarecrow. I thought we turned out pretty cute. Unfortunately, my chili didn't even get an honorable mention. Sigh... Trunk or Treating was FREEZING that night and Yay Yay was happy to sit in the warm car and eat her candy while we finished handing ours out from the back.
Sunday afternoon, Devin carved our pumpkin. I will be the first to admit, I am NOT a good carver. Devin doesn't mind it, so I'm great with it being his "thing" year after year. Rea helped scoop out the guts...for a little while.
Halloween day was pretty low-key. Devin got off work early and we took Rea (costume and all) to visit Devin's parents, brother, grandmother, aunt and uncle, etc. etc. It was a rainy night, so we were all fine with Reagan and Devin hitting only a few houses in our own neighborhood before calling it a night.

Now, I just need to keep my paws off of all of the candy that's still haunting me...

Feelin' a little blue...

2011-10-10T13:58:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday I was home visiting my parents during General Conference weekend and to celebrate my dad's birthday. I knew that a family friend was not doing too well and thought it would be a great time to pay her a visit. As it turned out, she had to cancel my visit at the last minute because she was having a really rough day. I told her daughter that I understood and to tell her that I loved her and would try again another time. There won't be another time.

Sister Sleight has always been there. My memories growing up at church include her. She was at girls' camp, roadshow practice...you name it. I have memories doing YW's activities at her kitchen table and closely examining her wall of family photos in her family room. I feel most fortunate, however, to have had her as my seminary teacher my senior year of high school. Boy was she a dedicated seminary teacher! And we studied the Old Testament that year! Sister Sleight always wrote with a pencil. Her scriptures were fresh for our new year of study. I can still see her black quad sitting on the table every morning.

Later on, she was kind enough to throw me a bridal shower when I got married and a baby shower when I had Reagan. She gave me great advice when I prepared to go to the temple. My recipe books are filled with Sharma Sleight originals. She gave me a hug any time I came home to visit during college. (Even though President Sleight gave me a hard time about being there ;)) She was a friendly face in the Vienna Ward Relief Society any time I was around.

I remember seeing Sister Sleight a little while after she had a double mastectomy. I was afraid I would hurt her if I gave her a hug. She told me it would be fine and I'm glad to say that giving her that hug in the church foyer is my last personal memory. I'm also glad I went ahead and asked her daughter Nicole to tell her I loved her. Because I sure do.

Saturday night I happened to call my dad on his cell phone. He had just left the Sleight's and told me what happened. I was so sad. I'm still very sad. But I feel so happy for Sister Sleight that she is no longer suffering. She had a long courageous battle and now she is free from her pain and discomfort.

I worry about President Sleight. He sure loved his wife. I know he misses her and will until they are again reunited. What a love story! What an example!

I feel so very blessed to have had her in my life. Sister Sleight, thank you.
'Til we meet again...

Fall happenings...

2011-10-07T07:39:00.000-07:00

Posting again in less than a month? Yes. And you're quite welcome!
Fall has hit the great state of Virginia, and with it, cooler temps. Can I get an amen?! It's the most wonderful time of the year. October, November and December are the B.E.S.T. Especially here in the Old Dominion, my friends.

Reagan is into her preschool routine and has experienced such amazing events as: "red" day, visits from Henrico County's finest, and her first FIELD TRIP!! On Tuesday I accompanied her class to the Hanover Vegetable Farm and had a blast. We had awesome weather and beautiful scenery. We enjoyed a hay ride, punkin' pickin', fresh apples from the farm, seeing all of the animals, doing water pump duck races and playing in a corn box. (A sand box filled with dried corn instead of sand.) It was a great way to spend the morning.

I am still Devin's taxi driver and I'm *hoping* he'll be cleared on Monday to begin driving again. He's had physical therapy twice a week since his last visit to the doc and they say his recovery is ahead of schedule. A milestone for me; getting all of his toiletries out of our powder room downstairs. They were beginning to drive me CRAZY!

Another big item of note, they broke ground on our house! The basement has been dug, so each day brings something new and exciting for us to see when we drive by. We met with our builder last week and he predicts a finished house by mid December. Let's hope he's right!

I'm 24+ weeks now. Things are going well, but 2 weeks ago pregnancy really hit. I went from having to remind myself I was pregnant, to no reminders necessary. My belly is big, this little girl is rockin' and rollin' inside and my energy and patience are getting smaller and smaller by the day. Have I mentioned that I love preschool?!

I've been busy getting ready for the Primary program at church. (all the kids do a presentation each year) It is written and parts are distributed. Phew!

Oopsie! Here are the pictures to go with that last post.

2011-09-15T12:30:00.001-07:00

Girl #2, Surgery, Dance Class, Turning 3 and Preschool!!

2011-09-15T12:00:00.000-07:00

On August 30th, Devin, Reagan and I went in for my BIG ultrasound. I learned the last time not to convince myself one way or another what we were having. BUT, if I had to guess (again!) I would have guessed boy. Why? Beats me. That's only if I had to guess. I didn't convince myself either way. And it's a good thing, because we are having girl #2. My reaction? Laughter. Devin is SO outnumbered! As it looks right now, numero dos will be making her entry into the world somewhere between January 18th and 25th. My guess? (maybe I shouldn't do that) I'd say she'll come closer to the 18th end of her week long due date. Think this one will look like me?

The next day, we woke up bright and early to embark in Surgery 2011. My oh my. We made it through that rough first week and a half by hook or by crook. Devin had arthrosurface on his right knee. (he'll need to do the left eventually, too) We found out on his post-op visit on Monday that they had to break a bone and then screw it back together. Poor guy. He is now the proud new owner of 4 screws and 3 implants! He had some NASTY bruising that is luckily making its way out. He won't be able to drive or put any weight on it for another month. Prayers are welcome. :-/

The evening of Devin's surgery, Reagan started a dance class at The Little Gym down the street. It's an hour of fun, let me tell you. She does 15 minutes of tap, 15 minutes of ballet, 15 minutes of creative movement and 15 minutes of gymnastics. She LOVES it!! Her tiptoe walking really comes in handy in ballet class! Boy howdy! That girl is a NATURAL when it comes to staying up on her toes.

On September 8th, my little Rea Rea turned 3! How did that happen?! We celebrated by going to lunch at Red Robin, opening presents, having Chick-Fil-A for dinner, getting our toes and nails done and adopting two new members of the family. Reagan is the proud new owner of 2 beta fish. A red one named Strawberry Shortcake and a blue one named Beach Ball. She named them all by herself! Believe it or not, they are still alive! I made a rainbow cake (hard to ice and so ugly on the outside!) that tasted pretty darn good. It was a great birthday!

On Tuesday (the 13th) Reagan started preschool. She has done such a great job! I have to admit, this morning I dropped her off in the carpool line instead of walking her to her room and got a little misty. She looked so little walking in there by herself. Don't worry, they have tons of aides and volunteers to make sure the kids get to where they need to go, but holy cow! Don't get me wrong, this is exciting and necessary. We are all happy about this next step into Independence. I just couldn't believe she was out the door and gone.
Her teacher is the mother of a boy I taught a few years ago. Small world! I just found out I'm going to be a co-room mom and am excited for the fun this year holds. Preschool is awesome!

This pregnant wife, mom, nurse, chauffeur, dresser, cook, pharmacist, laundress, maid, church volunteer and house builder is P.O.O.P.E.D.

Not much going on in Virginia lately...

2011-08-29T12:14:00.001-07:00

Just kidding! Well, not unless you count an earthquake and hurricane, power outages, pending knee surgery, building a new house, etc.
As I write this, Reagan is sitting in Winnie's crate (no I did not put her in there) and Devin is "working" in the dining room. Let me take us back a few days...
Last week we watched some friends' kids while they were out of town. Devin and I anxiously and excitedly awaited Monday afternoon when we could click our heels and make like a fetus. (You know, head out.) Our destination? The Outer Banks! We haven't had a "real vacation" in a while and were REALLY looking forward it it.
The drive to Carolina was beautiful. We didn't even stop to go to the bathroom, Reagan was THAT good. We arrived, changed clothes and went right to the pool. We heard rumors of this "Irene" character that was planning on stopping by, but we just shrugged it off and caught some more rays.
Tuesday, (Devin's 33rd birthday) was beautiful as well. We woke up, went right to the beach and loved EVERY. MINUTE. OF. IT. Around 12:30 we went to lunch and stopped by the luxurious K-Mart to find Reagan a snorkel. While there, I heard a man say, "There was an earthquake somewhere between Richmond and Raleigh." The PhD candidate who happened to make her tuition money at KMart said, "yeah, it was in Nags Head." Um...
When we got in the car I called my Winnie sitter who told me that sho nuf, there was an earthquake close to home and all was well. Get outta town! I couldn't believe I missed it. Ironically, my parents, 2 hours away, had WAY more signs of it at their house than we did.
So...Wednesday was spent lazily by the pool again and we heard some more rumors about Irene getting closer. That night we went to dinner discussing the possibility of going home on Friday sometime to avoid all of the pending hurricane traffic. Those plans quickly changed when we came back to the news report that the OBX was having a mandatory evacuation BY Thursday morning at 8:00. Not wanting to sit in morning traffic, we speed cleaned and high tailed it out of there that night. So, our wonderful vacay lasted a total of 2 days. Yes, TWO FREAKING DAYS! I was only just starting to freckle! Reagan cried and I wanted to. After explaining that it was like the Wizard of Oz, when they had to leave before the twister (good call, Uncle T) she calmed down and stopped the water works. I, however, remained depressed until, well...I still am.
I spent Thursday morning not by the pool or digging in the sand, but at the grocery store and doing laundry. Awesome!
Irene DID land here on Saturday and left many a stick, branch and leaf in our yard. We were very lucky though. MANY people had it way worse around here and are STILL without power. Some good friends had a tree fall on the middle of their house, taking their roof with it. SO scary! All are fine, but they have a long road ahead of 'em..
Devin is having knee surgery on Wednesday. Please say a prayer for me. I mean him. I hope it goes well because he'll have to do the other one in a few months. Since he won't be going into the office the next little while and last week was "vacation" he went in extra early to get as much done today as possible. A little while later, I got a phone call that he had no power at his office. Awesome. Right now, he's in the dining room trying to get some things done.
Tomorrow is a BUSY day. We find out the sex of the baby. Guesses anyone? I have no clue. Devin says girl. MOST people are saying boy. We'll keep either, so I'll let you know the results.
We also have appointments with flooring people and wiring people because we're...drum roll please...building a new house! I know. We're nuts. We *should* be moving in around Christmas. I'm due Jan. 24th. Don't say it. I know. Again...prayers, please.
I think that's it for now. Stay tuned, folks. I'll let you know if the baby will be Derek Jeter Garofalo Georgia Steinbrenner Garofalo. Only kidding. Sort of.

Losing it!

2011-08-09T14:48:00.000-07:00

What is it exactly? I don't know. But I'm losing it.
I was overbooked Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday. Today? Not so much. I woke up looking forward to an empty-calendar day. BUT, as I've been living it, things have changed.
Have I done anything remotely constructive? I did a few loads of laundry. I emptied the dishwasher. (my least favorite household task) Those count for something, right?
It has been one of those days when:
~Our t.v. will probably overheat due to overuse
~No square meals will be prepared
~My patience decides to go on vacation
~My Mother of the Year nomination will be taken back
~Preschool seems light years away from starting
~My almost 3 year old will be put back in pull-ups even though she's been potty trained since March. WHY does this happen??????
~Everything I pick up off of the floor magically ends up back ON the floor.
~The dog has toxic gas

Calgon, take me away! (No, really. Please!)

Yup...still alive

2011-08-02T12:20:00.000-07:00

What is it about me that just can't seem to blog frequently. I think I need September to get here, and summer life to end.

I need to catch y'all up, so I'll just do bullet points to get it all in.

~I'm pregnant. How's that for a big one? Due the end of January with baby #2. I will find out probably the last week of August what we're having. (btw, I have quite a few friends due around the same time as me. That makes it kind of fun.) I have been feeling fine and have had to remind myself that I'm pregnant. Over the past few weeks my stomach has started to pop.

~Reagan is almost 3... can you believe it?! She starts 3 day/week preschool next month and I think she's getting excited. (I must admit, I'm pretty excited, too) She's also starting a dance class the end of this month. That girl is growing FAST!

~Devin is busy busy with work as always. He's having knee surgery the end of the month. He'll do one knee at a time with the hope of full recovery and re-claiming part of his life that has been missing. Crossed fingers and prayers appreciated.

~Reagan and I (Winnie, too) spent a week in July up in NoVa. During that week I saw U2 in Philadelphia with Todd and celebrated his birthday as well. We were able to spend time with the fam, including my grandparents. It was a great getaway.

It has been H.O.T in Virginia this summer, so we've been inside more than we probably should. Sorry, but I don't do hot. In fact, I'm counting down the days 'til fall.

I need to include some pictures, but I'm not on my laptop and Devin has the camera at work.

Stay tuned....

P.S. How do I put blogs I follow to the right of my page? I'm a little bit challenged.

I Have Come to the Conclusion...

2011-05-25T06:41:00.001-07:00

...that the wife and mother of a household/family sets the entire tone of the home. With that said, I have some work to do.

Yesterday, I cleaned out my dining room. If I make an extra effort to have a more orderly and organized home, then all who enter will feel it. (Especially those who live here)

On a completely unrelated note...

I want a new couch and kitchen table. I found a custom couch from Bassett that is currently on sale for Memorial Day...oh the temptation of CHOOSING YOUR OWN FABRIC! My current couch is starting to wear and has been pilling for a long time.

My kitchen table is missing one of the four chairs (pretty funny story) and the finish is coming off the top. To quote my dad, "You buy cheap, you get cheap." It has served us well, but...the show must go on. I'm thinking I'd like to graduate from round to square. What will I do with my holiday table cloths then? Sigh...

Since this the quite a potpourri post, here's what we've been up to:

~Prince William got married.

~Reagan and I renewed our season passes and went to Busch Gardens with GiGi (Devin's mom) the other day.

~On Saturday, I auditioned for Wheel of Fortune in Roanoke while Rea and Dev visited the Metro Richmond Zoo.

~Rea, Todd, Bon Bon (my mom) and I went to the National Zoo. It was craptastic. Such a disappointment!

~Todd and I spent a day in Philadelphia complete with an authentic cheese steak underneath one of Philly's MANY overpasses.

~Rea and I took a BEAUTIFUL drive to Luray for the funeral of a dear friend's dad.

~Devin went to St. Louis for a few days.

~Devo and Rea got me a Kindle for Mother's Day. (LOVE it!)

~I went to the 22181 and attended a wedding open house and bridal shower.

~Devin's new(ish) office had a really nice open house.

~Reagan finished pre-school.

~I've vowed to drink more water...again.

~I picked Reagan's dance class for next year (she's going to LOVE it!)

Up next:

A trip this week to New York for Devin's cousin's wedding.

Devin goes to Birmingham.

Stay tuned...

P.S. This picture has NOTHING to do with this post, but I think my face looks thin. Once I get my current pictures downloaded on this computer, I will put some on here. (my NEW laptop is retarded and needs some TLC courtesy of Geek Squad.)

we're still alive...

2011-04-26T12:21:00.001-07:00

Since naps for Reagan are few and far between lately, I thought I'd take advantage of one and update our blog.

April has really flown by. With the dawn of a new month came crazy amounts of pollen in the 804. I think we've all suffered from it a little bit this month. I'm *hoping* we're almost through it for 2011.
Easter weekend was a busy one. My mom and sister came down on Friday to "paint." I put it in quotes because it didn't happen. We had good intentions though. They were stuck in holiday traffic and is was pouring outside. By the time they got here it was time to get some dinner and cold and wet outside. I slept way too late on Saturday morning, so we just spent the day hanging out and running errands. After they left Saturday evening I was busy getting ready for the festivities at our house the next day.

Sunday, all of Devin's family came over for dinner and an egg hunt. It was a nice day, but I was pooped at the end of it.

2011-03-17T12:14:00.001-07:00

I know. I have been an awful blogger and my whole 365 project was shot to h@#&. To quote my good friend Randy Jackson, here's what's up...

February:

~I turned 29 on the 8th. What the?! How am I 29?

~We watched 7 children while their parents spent 5 days in sunny Jamaica.

~That wasn't the rough part. The morning we woke up to go to their house to begin said babysitting job, we found our kitchen totally flooded and the water was still rising. (did I mention we were supposed to arrive at 7 am?) We still don't have a kitchen floor today (March 17th) If you look up the word "suck" in the dictionary, there is a picture of our kitchen. *Luckily, we are supposed to get a new floor next week as well as new carpet in our living room which ALSO got wet. Stay tuned for pictures.

~Devin got a new windshield

~I finalized things to get my car fixed after I ran over something exiting the highway in Jan. (can we say $2,600 in damage?) (I still haven't taken it in)

~Our insurance companies love us.

~2/26 Devin took me to see Jersey Boys in Baltimore for my birthday. Loved it!

~Honorable mention in Feb.: Mana and Grandaddy moved into their new apartment, Cub Scout Blue and Gold dinner, volunteering at Mother's Morning Out, potty training galore, 2 work dinner events, book club, dinner at the Melting Pot (birthday again), watched the boring Oscars, etc. etc. etc.

March:

~Devin and I flew to Houston on the 2nd. He had work meetings and I tagged along. (needed to get away from said kitchen floor chaos)

We did lots of Houston sight seeing, and took a day trip to San Antonio. I was pretty impressed with my first visit to the Lone Star State. The 80 degree temps along the river walk in S.A. were just what the doctor ordered.

~We enjoyed a few peeks into spring with warm weather and allergies.

~Reagan has done lots better with potty training

~Devin had yet another work dinner.

~I went to my monthly recipe club. Our theme for this month was "something green"

~We celebrated our anniversary on Saturday the 12th (7 years people!) by going to the VMFA to the visiting Picasso exhibit followed by dinner at the Tobacco Company. Ol' Pablo's art isn't my cup of tea, but it was neat to see.

~Our actuall anniversary (the 13th) was spent celebrating daylight savings and Devin not feeling well. He took a 4 hour nap after church.

~Looking ahead, we have some other fun stuff planned. Stay tuned!

TRADITION!

2011-03-17T12:01:00.000-07:00

(I know...I'm an awful blogger. More about that later.)

Here are my traditional St. Patrick's Day pictures. It's kind of fun to see Reagan from year to year.

She woke up at 10:00 this morning due to this blasted time change and having a fever. (sigh...) Outside her door, she found candy-filled shoes that the St. Paddy's Day leprechauns delivered. (They used to visit me when I was little, too.)

After the candy shock, R had green eggs and milk. I know. Gross. She didn't really have much to do with them after the first taste.

Then, I made sugar cookies (cookies and frosting from scratch) because we just hadn't had enough green for one day.

Right now, my corned beef and cabbage are simmering on the stove. It is my favorite holiday meal, after all.

Top o' the afternoon to ya.

(believe it or now, Reagan doesn't really have much green clothing. Aqua will have to do this year.)

*sorry for the undies picture. Rea was looking out the window for a rainbow while she was talking to the leprechauns.

January 13th - good times

2011-01-13T15:01:00.000-08:00

January 12th - Valentine's Day...a little early.

2011-01-13T15:00:00.003-08:00

I got this cute V-Day dress for Miss Yay Yay. She had to wear it a little early.

2011-01-13T15:00:00.001-08:00

January 11th - much better

2011-01-13T14:59:00.000-08:00

Tried this recipe tonight. Delish! (Thai Chicken and Noodles)

January 10th - chillin'

2011-01-13T14:57:00.000-08:00

It's what we do.

January 9th - fancy dinner

2011-01-09T19:01:00.001-08:00

Nothing but the best around here!

January 8th - snow watching

2011-01-09T18:59:00.000-08:00

Reagan just loved watching the snow in her undies.

January 7th - play time

2011-01-09T18:58:00.000-08:00

Reagan having fun at the mall play land...

January 6th - action shot

2011-01-06T13:50:00.000-08:00

We decided to go out back for a little while this afternoon. It got a little chilly, but Rea and Win had fun together.

January 5th - Candy Land

2011-01-05T19:58:00.000-08:00

Pretty cute, huh?

just some thoughts...

2011-01-05T16:35:00.000-08:00

This morning I attended the funeral of a woman from church. I didn't really know her, but I have known her grandson for years, so I felt like I should go. Edith, the grandmother, used to attend church every Sunday with the assistance of her son, who happened to be her next door neighbor. She was tiny and sat in her wheel chair and every time I saw her, she would give me the nicest, friendliest smile. Many times, I would watch her son gently pick her up and either place her in the church pew, or the front seat of his big ol' truck. Though slight and frail in her later years, I learned a lot about this giant of a woman today.

For one thing, her family loved her. And she loved them. She eloped at the age of 18 with her sweetheart George. Everyone who knew her well, was always hugged and kissed goodbye and told the words, "I love you a bushel and a peck and a hug around the neck." What a memory to have of your grandmother! Upon hearing this little bit of info, I got a little weepy thinking about singing that very song with my grandmother when I was little.

My friend Jason sang "In the Garden" at the funeral with his sister and paid a beautiful tribute to his grandmother. Jason used to visit her every Sunday and read to her. I don't know who benefited most from those visits. His Sundays will never be the same.

As I was driving home, I started thinking about all of the old folks I've known throughout my life. Of course there are my grandparents. The two I grew up closest to are still alive. Grandaddy isn't doing so well and I know the day will probably soon come when I get the dreaded phone call. He's 88 and his body is feeling every one of those years. His wife, Mana, turned 80 in October and she has always been independent and ready to go on an adventure at the drop of a hat. She hasn't been able to be footloose lately, and I know she's missing it.
My dad's mom, Granny, died a few years ago and I never met his dad. I have always wondered what he was like. One day I'll know.

In June, my aunt, Brenda Jo, died suddenly at the age of 64. No, I don't include her on my list of the elderly, but she was a part of my life. In the past six months, I have wished I could see her one more time. Just to give her another hug, or sit around and chat a little bit.

I was fortunate throughout my childhood to get to know some pretty spectacular seniors who weren't related (by blood, that is.)
First, there was Hope Nash. Hope and her husband, Barron, were my dad's pseudo-parents when he moved to Northern Virginia in his 20s. They never had children and really treated him as their own. Barron died when I was little, but Hope lived to be in her 90s. My family would regularly visit her in her brick house on 18th Road in Arlington. I can still smell it. She would always offer us a "gingah-ale" and called my brother pink cheeks. As she grew older and weaker, she had a few different caretakers live with her. On one particular Thanksgiving, her helper, Ermond, sang to us at the dinner table to express her appreciation. My dad and brother had to carry Hope up the steps and into the house in a white plastic deck chair that day. She was worried they wouldn't be able to lift her. All 90 pounds. (In her younger years she was a lot heavier) I remember once going with my parents to pick Hope up for a wedding and my mom curled her hair to get her ready. Hope eventually went to a nursing home in Reston, where we'd go visit every Monday night. I loved those visits and wish I could still go on them. Thank you, Hope for loving my dad (and the rest of us), baking him black walnut pound cake (that can't be replaced) and adding words like "whookie" to our vocabularies.

Then there's Juanita Hove. Juanita ran the old Miss Richmond Pageant for years. She walked like someone with bad knees. You know, one side to the next, rocking back and forth. She wore her gray hair in a bun and smoked long cigarettes. She and I shared a hotel room once (not sure why) and she always talked about me walking on my tip toes.

Jay (Jay Bird) and Anne Lyles lived a few doors down from us when I was little. I was often over at their house playing with their grandsons, or cats (Muffin and Gypsy) and dog (Smokey). Annie was often found wearing moccasins and brush rollers in her hair and smoking a cigarette. I can still hear her scratching her arm. (Mom, you know what I'm talking about.) Jay died in the 80s and a few years later Annie moved to Florida. We always kept in touch until she died 2 summers ago. She wrote us letters (always writing the word "and" sideways) and they always smelled like smoke. How I wish I had her for a neighbor now! (P.S. If Reagan had been a boy, there was a good chance she would have been named Jay)

Not only were we fortunate enough to have Jay Bird and Annie next to us, Betty Betty lived behind his. She was also known as the cookie lady. Betty Conley lived in the other side of the tot lot and our back yards faced each other. She would often come down to visit when we were see-sawing or swinging. She always had Oreo cookies in a jar in her kitchen (which also smelled like smoke) and looked a bit like Betty Boop. Ah...those were the days.

Growing up, there were two special ladies we attended church with: Edie Cangemi and Phyllis Booth. Edie was a tough Boston Italian who raised 10 kids after her beloved Nick dropped dead of a heart attack in his 40s. She made homemade pasta (I can still see it drying on hangers in her kitchen), took in boarders, collected dolls (I won't say what kind) and loved my dad. She would wave to him every Sunday from the back row while he sat on the stand. She didn't have pierced ears and wore the same clip on pearl earrings all the time. She always wore heels and no pantyhose. Edie was a smoker for a lot of the time I knew her and always had heart problems. I can picture her in her white dress suit the day she went to the temple to be sealed to her husband. What a reunion I'm sure they had when she died in September 2001. It probably started with her giving him a slap on the face for leaving her so early.

Phyllis. Two words: oh, honey. Chances are, if you've talked to her, you've heard her say it. She has always been old! Probably because she has the whitest hair in the world. She has taken care of her son, Eddie, for over 25 years because he was paralyzed at the age of 18 after falling off of Mill Mountain in Roanoke. You've never met a kinder, more sensitive woman than Phyllis. I can always count on a big hug every time I go to church with my parents. (Phyllis is the only one on this list who hasn't died.)

When I met Devin I also met the G Man. Gary Mereu. (Baptized Angelo Mereu) He looked like a mob boss, but didn't have a mean bone in his body. He walked with a cane, loved his New York Giants, and was Devin's father, grandfather and best friend all rolled into one. Most Sundays of football season 2000 and 2001, I was at the G Man's house. I took naps on his couch, ate "macaroni" with him and loved every second of it. In February 2002 G-Man had surgery for prostate cancer. He spent a month in the hospital and never came home. He died in early March. My family and I made the trek to Port Washington, NY (the home of Devin's forefathers...on one side) to attend his funeral. It was an experience I will never forget.

How fortunate have I been?! When I think about these dear people I smile, laugh and cry. My life has been so touched. Losing people like them is why life is hard. I can't wait for the day when I can have them all together again and visit 'til my heart's content. No one will be frail or walk with a cane. I will thank them, give them a squeeze and know that I'll never lose them again.

January 4th - my faithful sidekick

2011-01-04T17:51:00.000-08:00

I told my mom to shoot Winnie if anything ever happens to me. This dog is ALWAYS by my side. It can be heart-warming, but lately it is annoying as all get out. I can't leave the room without her following behind. I can't lay on the couch without her at my feet. I can't walk down the stairs without her clearing the way. Seriously, Winnie!

I do love her though. She's my first baby.

Here she is in one of her favorite napping spots. She also sits here and waits for me to come home if I've gone anywhere. ( Yes, I know her hair is really short.)

January 3rd - not feeling so hot

2011-01-04T17:49:00.001-08:00

Reagan caught my stomach bug and hasn't been feeling too hot. Here she is watching "Family Ties" with Devin and winding down. She loves this show!

She and Devin look a little rough. Sorry, Devo.

January 2nd - @ the drive-in

2011-01-04T17:47:00.000-08:00

My mom got this car from a friend who was moving out of state and Reagan fell in love. Here she is watching Willy Wonka.

Starting with...#1

2011-01-01T19:28:00.000-08:00

Well, it's 1-1-11 and that means it's a great day to start my year of 365 pictures! My mom put me up to the challenge and the excitement is building.

A gross stomach bug left me on the couch most of last night and today. Great way to ring in the New Year, huh? Devin and Reagan also left town today, so that left me with few options for my first picture. I took one of Winnie that was less than stellar, and my dark circles and shiny forehead just wouldn't cut it today. So, I got to thinking. Last year was a great year for my book club and just the other night we selected our books of 2011. I already own a few, so I thought I'd give you a preview of what I'll be reading this year.

Wishing you a wonderful 2011! (Christmas post later)

What we've been up to...

2010-12-08T12:09:00.000-08:00

I'm writing only a month (or so) after my last post. Yay me. My mom is challenging herself to post a picture a day on 2011, and I'm thinking about challenging myself to do the same. It would be something cool to look back on.

Since Reagan is having "quiet time" in her room (naps are so overrated), I thought I would catch you up on our November and first week of December happenings.

We enjoyed Thanksgiving at Bon Bon and Pops' house, made play dough for the first time, colored on our faces, played Wii bowling, Rea saw her first movie ("Tangled") in the theater and enjoyed some beautiful fall Virginia leaves.

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

2010-10-31T19:03:00.000-07:00

Here are some shots from Busch Gardens on Friday and trick or treating today. Enjoy!

I love Virginia in the fall...

2010-10-27T11:03:00.000-07:00

September and October have been busy months in the Garofalo casa. After Reagan turned 2, she started preschool. (sort of) She attends a Mother's Morning Out at St. Matthews preschool once a week and loves spending time with the other kids and her teacher, Mrs. Bowers.

A day after turning 2, R decided that she wanted to go poo poo (ear muffs, if this is too much for you) on the potty. We have good days and bad, but have graduated to pull-ups instead of diapers. We also have an array of Minnie Mouse and Yo Gabba Gabba undies!

With October came Mana's 80th birthday celebration! It was great to spend time with family and friends we don't get to see that often. It was especially nice since Grandaddy hasn't been doing too well. It was a group effort to get everyone there, but we pulled it off and had a blast.

Last week, we went to the pumpkin patch at Ashland Berry Farm. This has become a tradition for our little family and we really look forward to it each year. While we didn't get a stellar family picture like last year, we got some great individual shots.

I am relieved that our ward's Primary program was this past Sunday and is over for another year! It went really well and I was pooped afterward. Now it's time to start pageant season and have some pretty busy weekends. Devin is still working like crazy, but enjoys what he does. Things are going well for us in the R-I-C, so enjoy the pictures and be in touch!

As promised...

2010-10-27T10:57:00.000-07:00

Birthday Pictures! (just a shade under a decade later...)

Tea for 2!

2010-09-09T05:33:00.000-07:00

Well, not really. I couldn't think of something clever as the title for Reagan's 2nd birthday. (Please cut me some slack)
Anyhoo...Miss Yay Yay (or Reagan as you may know her) turned the big 0-2 yesterday! Can you believe it?! Devin took off most of the day so we could have a birthday lunch at Pizza Hut ("yum yum pizza") and pick out a toy at Toys R Us. That was quite the experience considering it was toy overload for a 2 year old who was about 45 minutes past her nap time. We made it home in one piece. Barely. But, the floor of our family room is now graced by the presence of a pop up Tinkerbell tent and tunnel combo. Luckily for me, it can pop down just as easily and fit under the couch. (I'm having mucho kid-stuff craziness around here)
After a much needed nap, Rea had chickie nugs for dinner and helped me make her a cake. After Devin got home from cub scouts, we ate a little cake, (Reagan sang 'Happy Birthday' to herself, too) and ended the day with a bang. And when I say bang, I mean a shower. Reagan's first shower. You may wonder why. Well, it seems 2 isn't too old to poop in the tub. Awesome.

I digress...
On Saturday we had a little party for Reagan at a park down the street. She had lots of fun in the playground, ate a yummy hot dog and got some really cool things. Thanks to everyone who came. It was a blast!

(birthday pictures coming soon)

How we roll...

2010-03-17T16:24:00.000-07:00

...On St. Patrick's Day!!

All of you foodies out there have inspired me to take some pics of our delish corned beef tonight. Not too shabby...If I do say so myself. Bon Apetit!

Happy St. Patrick's Day!!

2010-03-17T09:05:00.001-07:00

What a difference a year makes!! Wishing everyone the luck o' the Irish!

HOLY GUACAMOLE!!

2010-03-16T10:05:00.000-07:00

Holy guacamole is right! I am embarrassed to say that it has been an ENTIRE year since I last updated my blog. I guess life has just gotten in the way and, for that, I'm sorry. At least I have kept up to date with Reagan's baby book.

Since it has been a year, Miss Rea Rea is no baby anymore! In fact, she's 18 months old! That means nursery! Since this time last year, she's walking, talking, singing, dancing and everything else you can think of. Some of her latest favs are: Arthur, (still) Elmo, the other Sesame Street characters, going for "walks" (anything outside), her silkie, Todd, Pee Pee (Winnie), drawing, and brushing her teeth. She loves to play with other kids and read LOTS of books before bed. She's sure to say "Amen!" after every prayer, too. If I had to guess, I'd say her vocabulary is up to 50 words or so. It seems like she says a new one every day. She knows some of her letters, but thinks she knows them all. She had her 18 month check up last week and weighed 23 lb.s 13 oz and was 33 inches tall. I take each measurement with a grain of salt because she wanted nothing to do with sitting or laying still.

I have been busy the past few months doing my duties as a Miss Virginia field director and the Glen Allen Ward Primary President. I'm learning as I go. I miss teaching some days, and really miss getting a pay check. That's ok...I wouldn't trade it. Pay checks can come later on. Reagan's childhood will fly by. I've also stayed involved by holding a monthly writing class and joining a book club.

Devin is uber busy with work. He opened his own office this past summer. He's slowly, but surely building up his business. Hopefully the day will come when things aren't as stressful, but that's how it goes. When we start traveling the world, you'll know we've made it.

This coming Monday I'm starting a fitness program: Mind, Body and Spirit with the hopes of developing healthy habits, dropping a few l-b's and gaining some energy. This is a 10 week program, so wish me luck. I'm participating with some women from church and I think we'll really bond and build each other up. If I'm successful, you can bet I'll be posting some pictures when the 10 weeks is up. To be honest, there's no way I can't be successful if I follow the program. This could be a real pick-me-up.

We had a CRAZY winter with TONS of snow here in Virginia. I *think* winter is finally leaving. I'll believe it when I see it.

On Saturday, Devin and I celebrated our 6th wedding anniversary. It seems like forever ago that we said "I do" and I feel like I was just a baby when I look back at my 22 year old self. I guess I sort of was. (Don't worry, I know 28 isn't that far from 22)

It was a VERY busy weekend for me. I spent Thursday-Friday night in Newport and Roanoke, VA. First, Reagan and I visited relatives and then I (along with Mom and Dad) attended one of the many homecoming events for Miss America. ( We're proud of our Miss VA, Caressa Cameron, who won Miss America in January) I left the party and drove home in the rain by myself, missing the birth of a new cousin by just a few hours. :( Mom and Dad kept Reagan for the weekend while Devin and I celebrated our anniv. by going to a Primary breakfast, coaching church basketball and attending a friend's baptism. We did end the night with a great dinner of Brazilian food.

Just in time for St. Patrick's day, I traced one of the branches of my family tree to Ireland. I was SO excited to find this out since I had absolutely NO IDEA I had any Irish blood. It really makes me want to search even more. If you get a chance, watch the show Who Do You Think You Are? on NBC. It will no doubt inspire you. I have a personal goal to trace each branch back to arrival into the United States. I have a few to go. I do know that I have many generations of relatives native to America and, even better, Virginia.

Ok...that's it for now. I hope you feel a little more updated. I'll try to be better.

So Much to Catch Up On!

2009-03-26T11:19:00.000-07:00

Ok...I'll admit it, I have been blog stalking some people. And do you know what I've noticed? I'm am SO far behind the 8 ball. Really, if anyone out there actually reads my blog, I am sorry. Please forgive me. Please keep writing yours, though, they keep me informed and entertained.

(Oh so funny...Reagan is laying on the floor next to me and just noticed herself in the full length mirror. She is cracking herself up!)

So, I guess I should do the official Reagan update. Miss Rea-Rea turned 6 months on the 8th of March. At her 6 month doctor visit, we found out that she weighs 17 lbs. 1 oz. and is 27 inches long. She also had her 6 month pictures taken in her little Easter dress. (Sorry - she has already worn it to church. We broke Easter dress rules)

She is totally into solid food now and opens her mouth at the sight of any. She actually ate some green beans without gagging -- that's progress, folks! She can sit up for a few seconds and rolls/scoots all over the place. I keep waiting to see her first tooth pop out and/or catch her crawling. Henrietta, her horsie (horsey?), is still Rea's favorite friend and she spends many precious moments riding out her frustrations. If you have a baby, BUY A JUMPAROO!!

I still would like to shed some of my remaining baby weight (without working out, of course), but did fit into a skirt I bought before I was pregnant. Hey, it made my day.

Devin and I celebrated our 5th anniversary on March 13th. 5 years! My mom was here for the weekend, so Devin and I went out on a date to Outback. After our dinner, we stopped by Babies R Us and bought a high chair. My, how times have changed!

The first weekend in March brought the first snow Richmond has seen in 3+ years. Reagan and I got snowed in at my parents' house for a few days. Fun for us! It was nice to finally see some real snow and to see Reagan in it....for about 3 minutes. We didn't come prepared for the weather since it was in the 60s when we left to go up there.

Devin is still working like crazy and trying to stay afloat as a financial advisor in our struggling economy. Any time things would like to get better, we would certainly appreciate it. Until then, we'll just keep on keepin' on.

And last, but not least....It is officially IDOL SEASON!! Can ya stand it?! Watch out for Adam and Danny. Adam was amazing last night, but I think Danny has my heart.

Until next time...

Happy Birthday to Me!

2009-02-12T06:12:00.000-08:00

Well...it happened...I turned 27! How is that even possible?? Sunday was my birthday and it was pretty low key. We went up to NoVa for the weekend. Devin and I actually went out on a date Saturday night while my parents watched Reagan. We went to Texas de Brazil and had a good time. We finished way too early for a date so we went back out to Toys R Us (exciting, I know) and bought Reagan a jumparoo...best invention EVER!! She loves it. Unfortunately, I left my camera at Mom and Dad's house, so the pictures will have to wait.

Sunday, Mana and Grandaddy came over for dinner and cake. Devin fell asleep right after the cake...definitely not the most exciting birthday ever. I do feel a little bit older this year...probably because I had to grow up in a big way becoming a mom.

Here's to a brand new year!

Big Day!

2009-01-26T10:00:00.000-08:00

So, as I was downloading the pictures for that last post I walked into Reagan's room to see why she hadn't fallen asleep yet...And here's what I found!!!!

She rolled over onto her tummy for the first time! Of course her foot was between the bars, but you can tell by this picture how happy we BOTH were. We've been expecting this to happen for over a month now.

Here is a picture of her a little while ago during tummy time...this is pre-rolling over. She's 20 weeks today and check out those baby blues.

P.S. We haven't forgotten about Winnie...she's still our first child.

So...Um...Yeah...

2009-01-26T09:45:00.000-08:00

Well, it's January at least. Sorry about that New Year's Day idea. Good thing I didn't write any new resolutions.

Here are some pictures of Reagan who has now graduated on to rice cereal! Woot! At her 4 month doctor visit, a few weeks ago, she weighed 14lbs. 11oz. and was 25 1/4 inches long. I'm sure she's well past 15 lbs. now.

Enjoy!

Reagan's First Christmas!

2008-12-31T07:34:00.000-08:00

Well, Christmas certainly came and went. Boy, does it fly by each year! This year was a little hectic with too much last minute shopping/driving around...something I can't stand. So, we were all pooped by the end of the week and glad it's time to move on. Bring on 2009!

Reagan is getting to be more and more personable, so I know this is really going to be a fun year of growing and changing and really getting into her personality. It was almost this time last year when I found out that I was expecting, and what a whirlwind it has been!

We had a pretty busy Christmas - Christmas Eve was spent with Granbonnie, Pops, Uncle Todd, Mana and Grandaddy. (I guess we have to start calling him Great Grandaddy, too. Yikes!) We ate dinner at Red Lobster and headed to M and G's house for dessert, stockings and presents. Back at Mom and Dad's we read the Christmas Story from Luke 2, lit our candles and scratched our lotto tickets. I think Mom won $5. Ha!

Christmas morning we woke up, ate the usual John Wayne Casserole and opened presents. Around 11:00 we headed down 95 to Mark and Jerri's house. We were there most of the day, but decided to head home since Reagan woke up with a gross little cold. At home that night, our little family opened our presents to one another. Hey, Reagan didn't know it was Christmas night.

Friday, some good friends, the Perkins, were in town and came over for dinner. Saturday we drove with Mom and Dad to Giles for the Myers family Christmas. We came back that evening...Reagan and Winnie were troopers in the car and it was great for ALL of the family to finally meet her.

Here it's New Year's Eve already and we have NO plans. We did that on purpose. Will I even make it to midnight?

I'll try and post tomorrow to kick off the new year.

November and early December

2008-12-08T10:45:00.000-08:00

Well, Miss Reagan celebrated her first Thanksgiving this year at her Granbonnie and Pops' house. She reached two big mile stones in a baby's life while on her visit there: her first sink bath and her first laugh.

Today she is three months old - My, how the time has flown by! She celebrated by sleeping through the night again. This time she lasted from 9:00 p.m. to 7:15 a.m. Is this something that we can count on? Let's hope so.

Since she doesn't have a 3 month doctor visit, I'm going to guess at how much she weighs....I'd say 13 1/2 lbs. Maybe I'll get Devin to stand with her on the scale later on tonight.

Reagan also attended her first Miss Va local pageant this weekend. Miss Greater Richmond will go down in the baby book as her first pageant experience. She didn't last all night unfortunately. Talents and clapping are a little scary when you're 3 months old. It was so sad.

Rainy Day Blues

2008-11-13T09:46:00.000-08:00

Why is it that when I stopped getting a pay check the economy began to tumble? Things were ok up until then. Maybe I just notice this more because of Devin's chosen line of work and because I no longer help out financially. October and November have been rough. Not to mention we had to shell out mucho pesos for a new transmission in Devin's car. I guess when it rains it pours. Hmm...pouring...that's something it is doing now both literally and figuratively. I have a case of the blues this afternoon. It is a chilly, rainy, blustery fall day - something I love. It would be great to curl up in a blanket with a good book, but Miss R won't really let me do that yet. At least not for any long period of time. But these economic blues are keeping me from enjoying this fall weather anyway. Instead, I have been making many a to do and check list. Mr. Obama, when are you going to fix the economy? Ed McMahon, when will you show up at my doorstep with my million dollar check? HCPS, when will you send me a pay check even though I don't work for you anymore?

Probably contributing to my blues, Reagan had her two month shots on Monday. That was a painful experience for both of us. She survived, but it was not a nice visit with Dr. I. That's after her first snotty nose cold of her life last week. She has been a little fussy and sleepy today - and rightfully so. Can you blame the girl? She's had a rough week.

I should make some soup or something...too bad I need to go to the grocery store. This being a grown up business is hard. Very hard.

8 Weeks Old Today!

2008-11-03T13:01:00.001-08:00

For some reason this picture of Reagan didn't rotate...still cute though.

Busy Weekend

2008-11-03T12:52:00.000-08:00

We had a busy weekend:

Friday - Reagan's first Halloween (and a trip to Granbonnie and Pops' house)

Saturday - Baby shower for Melly in NoVa and driving back to Richmond

Sunday - Reagan's blessing at church

Monday - Chilling and relaxing. How is Reagan 8 weeks old already?!

We had lots of fun with friends and family yesterday who attended Reagan's blessing and lunch at our house afterward. Doesn't she look super cute in her white dress?

I guess the holiday season is upon us and Thanksgiving and Christmas will be here before we know it. My mom gave Reagan a cute little Thanksgiving outfit, that we can't wait to debut.

*Reagan's friend and future husband, Caleb, was also blessed on Sunday. Don't they make a cute couple?

Reagan's First Holiday

2008-11-03T12:48:00.000-08:00

We celebrated Halloween and the fall season with a trip to the Ashland Berry Farm the week before Halloween. How can you resist dressing your lil punkin' up and taking her to the pumpkin patch? I am hoping that this is a new tradition we've started. Forget Paris in the springtime, I love Virginia in the fall!

And some more...

2008-10-17T07:47:00.000-07:00

Some pictures...

2008-10-17T07:40:00.000-07:00

Here is a hodge-podge of pictures. I realized that there really aren't any pictures of me and Devin on here. We are still married. So, here are some classics as well as some newbies.

Some thoughts...

2008-10-16T19:10:00.000-07:00

So I was looking at some other blogs and I am way behind the 8-ball. Many people write on their blogs several times in a month - I, on the other hand, can only seem to write once a month. Maybe now that I am home full time, I will be able to write a little more. I need to keep others updated on our lives and document Reagan's changes.

We are surviving life as the new little Garofalo family. Winnie is getting used to being the big sister dog, but has been sending herself to bed at night when she's just had enough. Sometimes I wish I could do that...well, a lot of the time. Of all of the changes that come with a new baby, I think the lack of sleep is the hardest. We've been trying to get on a schedule a la Becoming Baby Wise. I guess Reagan is still too little to go the whole night without getting up to eat, so we'll see what the coming weeks bring.

At her one month appointment, Reagan wighed 8 lbs. 15 oz. Devin and I both think she is getting bigger, so I predict a 10 lb. + weigh in the beginning of November. Care to place your bet?

My sister got married last weekend and it was great to see some friends and family that we don't get to see very often. The weather was beautiful - October is such a great month to get married! Dee-Dee and Michael came back into town tonight from their honeymoon and will rise early tomorrow to start their trek to Mesa. Maybe once Reagan gets to be a little older we'll be able to fly into town for a visit.

A funny story that came out of her wedding day happened at her reception. Todd and I were talking to our cousin's husband and he casually mentioned that Paul Stanley from Kiss was in the art gallery downstairs at the Galleria. Todd and I booked it, and sure enough, there was Paul selling his art. We didn't get to talk to him or buy any art (I didn't have a spare $15,000 with me), but it was pretty stinkin' cool to see him so up close and personal.

Reagan was a trooper during a long 2 days for a 5 week old. I'm sure her arm pits are a little tender from everyone passing her around during the festivities.

So, Devin and I were talking that we need to be sure to have a date night now that our totally alone time is a dim memory. Let me know if you can think of any fun ideas.

Here she is...

2008-09-25T17:30:00.000-07:00

...Our new little miss. Reagan Lee Garofalo was born on Monday, September 8th at 7:20 pm. She weighed 7 lbs. 6 1/2 oz. and was 19 1/2 inches long. We came home on September 11th and I'm starting to get into the swing of things...thanks to lots of help from Reagan's daddy and Granbonnie.

I had a C-section after an hour and a half of pushing - she was stuck. Everything ended up ok and she came out screaming. After two weeks of no driving and limited trips up and down the stairs, I'm feeling just fine. Winnie is adjusting well, too! I can't believe how great Devin has been through all of this. He wasn't the least bit squeemish during a long delivery day and has been lots of help since Reagan's arrival.

Tick Tock Tick Tock...

2008-09-05T12:18:00.000-07:00

I don't have a picture to accompany this post, but maybe I'll add one before the end of the weekend.
So...my one friend was due on the 13th and had her baby on August 28th. My cousin was supposed to be induced on Monday, like me, and had her baby on the 3rd of September. I, however, still wait. I guess I can't complain since I do get to go eight days ahead of schedule. For the past week I have been anxious to get the show on the road and nothing. Hey, it happened naturally for them, so why not me, too? Today I went to pre-register at the hospital and the nurse informed me that they were full - no beds at all! Anytime there is a drop in barometric pressure (i.e. Hurricane Hanna) ladies go into labor left and right. She also told me that my doctor was going to go out of town this weekend for the first time in a long time. I hope this isn't the kiss of death for me. Any other day this week would have been fine. Now I'll be rushed to the hospital in driving rain and they won't have a bed for me and my doctor won't be there. Let's hope not! No contraction yet...
I'll admit, I am nervous. I've never done this before. And if you know me very well at all you know that I fear change. Anytime a big change has occurred I've fretted about it ahead of time, but once the actual day came, I have been alright. That's what I'm expecting for Monday. Life is definitely about to change.
Stay tuned...

Lady in Waiting...

2008-08-29T06:35:00.001-07:00

I am being induced on September 8th if this baby doesn't decide to come sooner. That will be a day before my 39th week, so not too early. I have been retaining water like a champ, so the doctor is going to give me some relief...God bless her.

It is, however, sinking in that Devin and I are going to be parents in almost a week. Holy cow! I don't know how ready anyone is for their first baby, so I guess we're as ready as we'll ever be.

Of course, we'll keep you posted on the happenings in the Garofalo home. Keep your fingers crossed that things go well for us.

Here's a sonogram I had at 35 weeks. They said she is measuring a little big - another reason for my Sept. 8th delivery.

Enjoy! And check out those cheeks!

The Dog Daze of Summer!

2008-08-04T10:34:00.000-07:00

Could it be any hotter in Virginia in the summer?! (especially when you're 8 months pregnant!) I've been a fan of summer over the years, but never the heat. I especially LOATHE the heat this year. I'm counting down the days 'til September when I can have this baby. (34 weeks tomorrow) Give me three cheers for early babies! I know...I know, there's a little ways to go. Maybe we're not totally "ready" (then again, who is?) for a baby, but I think we're both ready for this pregnancy to be over. Devin is probably sick and tired of hearing me complain. I really am trying to be good about it. Sigh...

I had two showers and threw one for my sister this past weekend. (Still wondering what I'm going to wear to her wedding.) Here are a few pictures. (No, Robin and I did NOT wear the same shirt on purpose. It is a popular one for pregnant ladies this year.) Do you think I'll ever be able to wear a belt again? Or get rid of my ever expanding chins and arm fat? I'm excited to note that my gym (which I promise I'll start going to...really) offers a hip hop cardio class. Now that could be fun.

Stay tuned for the next entry. I will try to sound more positive in that one.

Here's What's Happening in MY Neck of the Woods...

2008-06-24T12:39:00.000-07:00

(I hope you recognized that title from the Today Show)

Here it is June 24th...and I am unemployed! Can you believe it?! Friday the 13th was my last day with students and I went in last week to tie up loose ends. This is my first full week of total and complete domestic bliss. Well, sort of.

Some of the other English teachers threw me my first baby shower on June 10th. It was really nice and we had some great food and got some pretty awesome gifts. They bought an ice cream cake...oh so clever! It came in handy since it was 103 degrees that day. No lie! I will include a picture of the cake, but not of me. If you remember Pee Wee's Big Adventure I'm tending to resemble Large Marge lately! I know we're our own worst critic, but please...I'm HUGE! What in the world will late August and early September bring?! Tall women are lucky when it comes to the whole pregnancy/body image with baby thing.

All in all, I'm feeling really good. I can't complain at all. The last time I went to the doctor (3 weeks ago) everything looked great. I measured just where I should be and the baby's heart rate and my blood pressure were perfect. I have had some swollen feet, but only a hand full of times. I am in my third trimester now, so I guess we've reached the home stretch. After my next visit, I start dropping in every two weeks. The second trimester is WAY faster than the first.

Today I put the changing table and bouncy seat together. No idle hands around here! The swing made it out of the box, but not anywhere near put in once piece. Maybe I'll save that pleasure for Devin. (The bouncy seat and swing were both gifts from my school shower. Pretty awesome, huh?)

Other June tidbits:

~My sister got engaged on the 1st. She is planning an October 11th wedding.

~My cousin graduated from high school and we made the trip to Giles County to attend the ceremony and cook out.

~We celebrated Father's Day in Vienna with Dad and Grandaddy

~Mom had a birthday on the 20th which we celebrated on Father's Day

~The end of this week I will make my 26th (yes, you do the math) trip to Roanoke for the Miss Virginia Pageant. What a great summer tradition!

Stay tuned for more summer fun!

I hope you like the lovely picture Devin took of my belly while I was watching t.v. the other day. The sad part is, I'm not sure I knew you could see my stomach. Not to worry, I don't walk around showing off my mid section. Never have, never will. This is probably the only time any of you will ever really see it. (Unless I have a bikini body next summer that is! ;) )

It's a Girl Thing!

2008-05-23T07:26:00.000-07:00

I might as well start our daughter off right. Every girl needs cute shoes. And when they are so darn cheap, how can I resist? Here are two pairs that I picked up last weekend.

Also...I'm planning ahead. Summer things are out there, so next summer clothing is on my mind.

I'm home today with a gross cold, so here is how I'm spending my time between loads of laundry.

P.S. We bought a crib this week. I guess it is really real.

We're Having a Girl!

2008-05-06T14:45:00.000-07:00

We are having a girl! I thought FOR SURE there was a little boy in there. How funny that the day I find out about our girl, I see this ADORABLE Target ad. I hope Winnie is ready for her close up. By the way, we have no idea what her name will be. This may take a while...

Pictures of Our Little Lady!

2008-05-06T14:37:00.001-07:00

Here are a few of the ultrasound pictures we got yesterday. Of the three appointments, these are the worst set of pictures we've gotten. Oh well...they saw what they needed to see, right?! One is a semi-profile (she wouldn't sit still and cooperate), the other is her foot and the third is of her "lady parts." I'll just take the doctor's word that those are indeed lady parts...

She (the baby) may not be happy that her mother posted them online.

P.S. Either I am getting wider or shorter with this pregnancy. Sorry, just walked past a full-length mirror.

Gettin' Round

2008-04-26T05:11:00.000-07:00

After much demand....here is a picture of me and, more importantly, my belly. Unfortunately, Devin was sitting down taking these pictures, so I may not be AS big as I appear. Right? This is me at about 18 1/2 weeks. I feel like I suddenly popped out around week 15 or so. We'll have to take some more shots soon. I haven't gained as much weight as I thought I would at this point, so I guess that's a good thing. I'm sure my next doctor visit will tell me something different.

I go back on May 5th and find out whether we're having a boy or a girl. The wait is driving me CRAZY!!!

Stay tuned...

Too Early to be a Thumb Sucker?

2008-03-10T10:08:00.001-07:00

The ultra sound tech said it was too early for a baby to suck his/her thumb. Then she said, "But it sure looks like its trying." You tell me.

Enjoy the pictures...Sorry they are kind of crooked.

The Rumor is True!

2008-03-02T15:17:00.000-08:00

Some of you may be wondering...

It's true. I'm pregnant! Due September 16th. Here is the first official picture of our precious little lima bean. Because of this great news, my behind has been on the couch and not blogging. Hopefully some of my energy is on its way back.

This ultra sound was from about 8 weeks. I'll have another at 13...so, next week. Maybe it will look like a real baby by then?

Merry Christmas from the Garofalos!

2007-12-21T05:42:00.000-08:00

Here are a few pictures of us all ready for Christmas. If you happen to get a Christmas card, the one picture may look a little familiar. We are busily getting ready (sort of) for the big day. I'm happy to say that I did pretty much all of my shopping before the month of December came around. I will NOT go to the mall this time of year.

We will be doing the usual this year...Chesterfield, Vienna and Giles. I am already LOVING my two weeks off and know it will be very hard to go back in January.

We wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a WONDERFUL 2008!

2007-11-23T10:09:00.000-08:00

One more thing...

2007-11-23T10:05:00.001-08:00

Just thought you'd like to see some pictures of the house all gussied up for fall.

So...uh...it has been a while!

2007-11-23T09:52:00.000-08:00

Sorry about that folks. I didn't upload many pictures over the past two month, so I just put it off. Here are some pictures of October and November so you can see what we've been up to. It is the day after Thanksgiving and I have been busy with projects around the house. We had family here for the big day (from both sides) and our total number of diners came to 14.

I'm debating if I should go ahead and decorate for Christmas or not. Hmm... What do you think? I will do better with this...I promise.

Happy September!

2007-09-02T18:22:00.001-07:00

It is September again and that can only mean one thing...BACK TO SCHOOL! I thought I would include a school picture of me from yesteryear. I think this may be one of the first years I'm excited to go back. It is definitely time for a routine again. I'm looking forward to smaller class sizes and having a student teacher.

Devin's Birthday

2007-08-25T17:04:00.001-07:00

Devin turned 29 on Thursday. He's feeling kind of old...Poor little guy. I bought him a grown up gift...a Yankee Fat Head. He loved it and it was QUICKLY up on the wall in our "Yankee Room." Don't you just love how he dressed up to pose with Derek? Sheesh.

Our Family Blog

2007-08-25T16:57:00.000-07:00

I thought I would become a member of the 21st century and develop a Devin/Shannon family blog. I'm not sure how great I'll be about posting on a regular basis, but I'm sure it will be a great way to keep in touch. Who knows, maybe it will be a hit.

This is the most recent picure of us. It was taken a few weeks ago on our cruise. Don't I look blonde?