Life with the O's

The arrival of my beautiful niece, Maggie! (late post)

2010-03-30T13:33:00.000-07:00

Maggie Isabella Murray
Born: Januray, 20th, 2010

So the girl made her entrance (a little late) and is so terrific! Chris (my brother) and Katie are so in love! As are we! And my kids think she hangs the moon! Especially, little Delaney! She is totally obsessed! We have BIG plans for them to be the best of friends! The kids even have a nickname for Maggie: "cousie!"

Breakfast with the Easter Bunny!

2010-03-30T13:31:00.001-07:00

One of our local Chick-fil-a's hosts "Breakfast with the Easter Bunny" every year. The kids and I met up with Mimi, Aunt Katie, and Baby Maggie! What a fun way to celebrate the arrival of SPRING!!! Finally!

Lemonade Stand

2010-03-30T13:26:00.001-07:00

Well, Camden has been asking for awhile to do a lemonade stand! So we invited her friend, Brynn, over to help us. The girls set it all up (with "help" from their siblings) and it rocked! It was a beautiful, sunny day and we had tons of customers! We took donations for a charity that the girls school is doing. In total, they raised almost $50 for "Pennies for Peace!" So very proud of my girl!

St. Patrick's Day

2010-03-30T13:13:00.000-07:00

They got us again this year!!! Those stinking leprechauns!

They took baths in our potties, stole our candy, flipped over our furniture, played with all the green toys... And our trap didn't work again this year! Next year - we set 2 traps!

Delaney Drew is ONE!!!

2010-01-14T07:46:00.000-08:00

Where did the time go? Honestly! It feels like we brought her home from the hospital last week?

Our little girl is getting so big and is still so very sweeet! She has been crawling for 6 months but has no interest in walking. None. at. all. Maybe because someone is always holding her, carrying her... She is still very easy going but starting to break out of her shell. She makes it known when she wants to get down, get more food, hold a toy. We'll take her next week for her 12 month check up and I will report more then. For now, enjoy the pic's from her birthday!

Our little cheerleader

2010-01-14T07:40:00.000-08:00

Camden started cheering this year! She has wanted to do this for so long and now that she's a 1st grader, we were able to. Holy Moly! It is BY FAR her favorite activity EVER! She is so enthusiastic!!!

A few new house pictures

2010-01-14T07:25:00.000-08:00

It's FINALLY starting to come together and feel like it's our house! Thanks so, so, so much to all of our family and friends who have helped! We owe you the world!

These shots are of Jack and Reed's room and the kid's monkey bathroom!

2010-01-02T14:53:00.000-08:00

2010-01-02T14:49:00.000-08:00

More Christmas pic's

2010-01-02T14:46:00.000-08:00

Christmas 2009

2010-01-02T14:32:00.000-08:00

Oh man! Did we have a busy Christmas season, or what? We started with a Santa Breakfast in Goochland and a day of shopping with Mimi (my Mom.) Followed by a beautiful Christmas program at the church. Our sweet little Camden loves to sing! Next there were 3 Holiday parties at the kid's schools. Then we had a huge snow storm!

After that, we had Christmas Eve at our new house with my Mom and Dad, Chris, my brother, and Katie, and Ed's sister, Nichol. What a great time!

Then came Christmas morning for Eddie, the kids, and me. Of course, Santa made a fool of himself! Later that day, Chris, Katie, and the Cooper's came for dinner and entertainment from the kids. We were treated to a very special performance!

Then, on that Sunday, Nana and Papa arrived for our Christmas celebration! We did Christams with them, Aunt Cole, Aunt Tori, Uncle Issac, Cousin Itoria, and our gang.

We have had an amazing Holiday Season! And are so blessed to be surrounded by a wonderful family and amazing friends!!!

Snow days!

2010-01-02T14:26:00.000-08:00

A week before Christmas we got one heck of a snow storm - 10 inches in 1 day! That's A LOT of snow for Richmond!

Pic's of the new house

2010-01-02T14:06:00.000-08:00

I promise to be back with more inside pic's soon!

Our First Home

2009-11-24T19:13:00.000-08:00

We closed on our first home on Friday! We have been a little hesitant to write anything until it was a done deal but now we can shout it out! It's in the same neighborhood as we live now (so no school changes) and is a little bigger. 4 bedrooms and 2 1/2 bath trilevel home. We are currently making a few adjustments before we move in on Sunday. Like removing the gold carpet (hardwood underneath), massive amounts of wallpaper removal, fixing up the walls, painting most of it (more to paint later), having the hardwoods refinished, getting the boys room some new carpet... My goodness! And that's what we're working on now! There is so much to do but it's a lot of fun! And did I mention that it's OURS???

Pictures to follow!

Jack and his "Lellow Belt"

2009-11-24T19:09:00.000-08:00

We are so proud of our big boy! On Saturday, Jack earned his 2nd belt in karate - his yellow belt (or as he calls it his "lellow belt.") He had to follow his commands, do the moves, 20 push-ups... Mostly, I was impressed how easliy he went right into the room with his 2 teachers and 2 other people he didn't know. he was so brave and so proud of himself! He wore the belt everywhere we went that day! Way to go, Bubba!

Tooth Fairy Time

2009-11-24T19:04:00.000-08:00

Our little Camden has finally lost her first tooth! It's been "wiggly" for over a month and then on Saturday morning she announced that it was almost ready. And we also realized that the adult tooth has already broken through. By Sunday, it was hurting enough for her to let Daddy pull it out. With one pull, it gave way! She is so excited to finally be like her friends (and to be able to push her tongue through the gap.) The tooth fairy arrived Sunday night - money time!

Halloween 2009

2009-11-06T09:07:00.000-08:00

Oh how I LOVE Halloween! It is, by far, my favorite holiday! And we have some great traditions! Every year, since I was little, we have our traditional dinner of sloppy joe's. I know it's not gourmet. But the kids LOVE it! We have over family and friends for dinner, then off to the Fall festival at the preschool, and then trick-or-treating. As always, we had a blast! Check out my little firefighters Jack and Reed (they love dressing alike for Halloween), Ms. Camden as Daphne from Scooby Doo (she HATED the wig), and our Delaney's first Halloween(she was a ladybug.)

Preschool Pumpkin Patchin'

2009-10-10T12:39:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, we took our annual trip to the Pumpkin Patch! It was so beautiful and the boys had a blast playing, being loud, playing in the dirt and corn kernels... And Miss D just went along for the ride! Taking it all in - such a girl!

Random pictures

2009-10-10T12:36:00.001-07:00

Just a few random pictures of the Fabulous Four!!!

Noah and Jackie Visit VA

2009-10-10T12:30:00.000-07:00

Last week my girlfriend, Jackie, and her son Noah (11 months) came to visit! Delaney loves Noah and the feeling is mutual :-) They were super cute together! I loved catching up with Jackie and snuggling little Noah. Man! Things sure have changed since our ZTA days!!!

Visit from FL

2009-10-07T13:00:00.000-07:00

Yippee! A visit from Nana, Papa, and Uncle Steven! It was just what we needed - a few days with some of our favorite people! Wish Christmas would hurry up!

Preschool days are here again!

2009-10-07T08:22:00.000-07:00

Okay - so preschool started way back on September 14th! But preschool days ARE here again! And the boys are loving it!

Jack is in his last year of preschool :-( He is in love with 2 little girls but still insists he is marrying ME and Ava! And, as always, loves playing rough with the other boys. You'd think he'd get all his energy out there but I think his energy has no end!

Reed is enjoying his new classroom and all the cook new toys! His favorite day is music day! He's starting to memorize notes and words to new songs and likes playing the instruments. Reed has even told us that he now plays with other kids! That may seem silly but he usually likes some time to himself (I wonder why?!)

We are so lucky to have such a wonderful place to send our boys to! They are loved and treated so well! Also, learning more and more everyday! AND Mommy and Delaney get some alone time!!!

Our first baby is a 1st grader

2009-09-08T08:18:00.001-07:00

Today our Camden started 1st grade! It was a little scary (for us, not her) but a little easier than last year! Last year I was a mess! Today, even Jack got a little teary. I think that's so sweet! Here is our girl looking as "girly" as she possibly can!

"Free Fall" Camden

2009-09-08T08:17:00.001-07:00

Chesterfield Co. Fair

2009-09-08T08:12:00.000-07:00

Last week we decided to take a trip to the fair! We wanted to do some special things before school started back and I thought this would be great! It was terrific! We saw animals, rode the barrel ride, saw a train exhibit, rode kid rides, and ate fried oreos for the first time. Jack and Reed loved the car rides. But Camden loved the bigger, scarier stuff! Her favorite was the "Free Fall!" I am so lucky to have such fun kids!

Build-a-Bear

2009-08-29T13:38:00.000-07:00

At the beginning of the summer, we promised the kids we would take them to Build-a-Bear as an "end of the summer" treat. Well, they are running a special until the end of August so we took them over last night. It was the boys first time making one and they all had a blast! Reed made a wolf ("Wolfie") and dressed him as a firefighter. Jack picked a red, white, and blue puppy ("Frosty") and dressed him in karate gear and sneakers. And Camden picked a pink bear ("Courtney") and dressed her in a bikini and sandals. Perfect choices for each of their personalities!

And don't worry! We are making a special one for Delaney for her first birthday (we've got a little time on that!)

Visit to MD

2009-08-29T13:25:00.000-07:00

Last weekend we were able to spend some time with one of our favorite families, the Yunker's! We've known Lee and Mike since college (we were in the same sorority and fraternity and introduced them!) Our kids are all very close in age and had such a nice time together. Plus, the Mommies and Daddies got some time to catch-up, too. especially since we haven't seen Mike since he returned from deployment. We visited the Baltimore Aquarium, went to a fancy dinner at a Japanese Steakhouse (or as the boys call it "The fire restaurant"), toured the Naval Academy, and played til they dropped! We can't wait til the next visit!

Little D crawling

2009-08-19T13:11:00.000-07:00

Delaney learned some new tricks!

2009-08-19T12:24:00.000-07:00

You know how when you have your first baby you can't wait for them to do everything? Like sit up, crawl, stand... Well that is not the case with your fourth child!!! I would be beyond happy to let her wait for all of those tricks. But... She had other plans! So 2 weeks ago, Delaney decided to sit up and sit herself up. Okay! Cute! But last week she started crawling, actually moving from one rrom to the next! And on the same day, she pulled herself into a standing position! Seriously? Why are my children always in such a hurry? It seems early? No?

Party People

2009-08-19T11:41:00.000-07:00

On Sunday, we celebrated Landon's 3rd birthday at the park! We have known the Goodwyn's (and the Cooper's and Henry's) since we met in lamaze class 6 1/2 years ago. Since then, we've added a couple more kids to the mix (haha) and they have a blast together!

A blast from the past

2009-08-07T13:11:00.000-07:00

Earlier this week we spent a couple of days with some old friends. Our friends since high school, Bobby and Chris, came from NY and GA to spend a few days with us. And we got to meet Bobby's new fiance, Becky, who is terrific! We played at the kid's museum, visited my parent's vineyard, and ate too much food (maybe even drank a little, too!) Our kids loved them, we had a great time, and they even survived a few days with our wild and crazy kids! Can't wait to see them again!

Reed is ready to be a big boy?

2009-07-28T11:26:00.000-07:00

Well! Look who finally decided he was ready for underwear? My Little Man!

But be careful because he still wants to be a "baby" sometimes, too! He is so torn! He's fiercely independent 90% of the time but clingy the other 10%. I guess I'll let him be the (3 year old) baby boy!

Delaney Drew - 6 months (almost 7)

2009-07-28T11:10:00.000-07:00

Not sure how it's passing so fast! We've been trying to enjoy every minute of our last baby, to no avail! She just keeps growing and changing on us! It's so fun to watch her change though :-)

At her 6 month appt. she topped the scales at 18 lbs. 9 oz. and 26 inches! That's our little chunkster! She is sitting up now and up on her knees rocking like she's ready to crawl. It will happen in no time! She's eating baby fruits and veggies at night and starting to have some at lunch, too. Her favorite is Gerber fruit puffs! They are a great distraction for her to play with while we eat!

Little D's sleep (at night) is returning to normal. She has been sleeping through the night since 8 weeks but at 4 1/2 months it stopped. So Mommy finally decided to do something about it! Last week we started moving her to a pack-n-play in the toy room when she woke in the middle of the night. Gotta keep everyone else asleep! It's working like a charm! She wakes at 4:30 am and we move her. Within 5 minutes she back to sleep. Not sure what took me so long to do this!

Oh yeah, I almost forgot! Our Delaney grew herself 2 teeth! Her bottom 2 have popped through and are slowly becoming visible. See? I told you it's going too fast!

More vacation pic's

2009-07-28T11:06:00.000-07:00

Vacation to FL and the HEAT

2009-07-28T10:39:00.000-07:00

It's been 2 weeks since we got back from vacation and it already seems like forever. Why can't it last forever? I digress...

We had an AWESOME visit with Nana and Papa!!! We took trips to the Kennedy Space Center, had a "Cowboy Cookout," went to a Cubs baseball game, had a "cousin's" playdate, went to the Jacksonville Zoo,... It was a busy week full of fun-times with Aunt Lee, Uncle Roy, Cousin Lincoln, Uncle Steven, Nana, Papa, the Pickens, Aunt Heather, Cousin Charles, Joey, Stacey, Baby Landon... The best group of people - we have an awesome time! Next year, 2 weeks!

Giving this thing a new look

2009-07-27T20:30:00.000-07:00

We needed a facelift! Thanks Susan for turning me onto this website for a FREE background! Think it will help me blog more often?

http://www.aquapoppydesigns.blogspot.com

Camden gets her yellow belt!

2009-07-01T07:29:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, Camden tested for her yellow belt! She had to perform certain moves and finish it off woth 20 push ups. And she did it! So our girl is no longer a white belt but is now a yellow belt! We are so proud of her!

We celebrated by taking her to her favorite restaurant and having a popcorn party with her cousin!

Delaney and her BFF

2009-07-01T07:28:00.000-07:00

Just a little picture of Delaney and her new BFF (best friend forever), Kimmy! Every night she has to have Kimmy to go to sleep. She holds onto her for dear life!

Swim Lessons

2009-07-01T07:18:00.000-07:00

Here are a few shots of Camden and Reed's 2 weeks at swim class. They loved it and hope to take another round once we get back from vacation and VBS. Reed is learning to swim with people other than us (a big deal) and camden is actually learning to swim on her own. Of course, you'll notice I didn't mention Jack. He refused to even get in the water with his teacher. Instead, he sat across the pool with me watching them. Stubborn boy!

Father's Day

2009-07-01T07:14:00.000-07:00

What a fun, relaxing day for Eddie! Just what he need considering how much he works.

We started the day off with breakfast at Cracker Barrel with my Dad, Mom, brother, and Katie. The kids even behaved as an added Father's Day bonus! then we took some pictures outside - it was a gorgeous day! Followed by naps for everyone and a nice afternoon/evening of board games, wrestling, and dinner. I am so very lucky to have such a wonderful Daddy for my FOUR kids!!!

And she eats!

2009-06-18T11:48:00.001-07:00

Our little Delaney has stopped sleeping through the night (which she has been doing since 8 weeks.) Well, the pediatrician said to start food at 6 months or when she stops sleeping at night. So here we are at 5 1/2 months. And no sleeping!

Two nights ago we started oatmeal cereal and it was a HIT! And last night she slept for 10 hours straight! We'll see if it continues or if it was a fluke - fingers crossed!

School is out! Let summer begin!

2009-06-18T11:36:00.000-07:00

Camden finished up school last week - finally! We are beyond excited to have her for the whole summer! I can't believe she'll be a 1st grader soon. She brought home all her papers and an excellent report card. We even took that report card to Krispy Kreme today and got her free doughnuts. What a nice summer treat!

So far, we're taking swim lessons (although Jack refuses to particiapte!) And we're working on ideas for small trips and everyday activities. vacation to FL to visit Nana, Papa, and the rest of Eddie's family is in 2 weeks - can't wait!

here are some shots from C's last day of school and the swim party after! By the way, at the beginning of the school year we had 3 kids so it was neat to see the 4 of them all together!

Strawberry Patchin'

2009-05-28T15:19:00.000-07:00

One of our favorite places in the world is the Berry Farm! We have been going there to pick pumpkins since before Camden was born. Last year we discovered them at Strawberry time, too. It's so beautiful and peaceful out there (on a weekday afternoon) and they have the best strawberries ever.

Random pic's

2009-05-28T15:14:00.000-07:00

Jack turned 4...

2009-05-28T15:04:00.000-07:00

My "big boy" turned 4 on May 20th! Not sure why, but I am having a hard time with it. FOUR years old - only 1 more year until Kindergarden. Crazy!

These days Jack is riding in a booster seat, doing karate once or twice a week (he is VERY strong), he weighs 41 lbs. and is 41 inches (ironic), he is the size of the average 5 year old, is loving all things pirate and fireman, and likes to pick on his little brother. Jack is all boy (crazy physically and a little on the LOUD side) but also our very loving and sweet boy. Strange combination but wonderful!

He's out of preschool for the summer so we're working on workbooks. Tracing and holding a crayon correctly. And of course, getting him outside to expel some of theat energy. He only does what is interesting to him - such a man.

He is the last of our 3 May birthdays so we'll go out with a bang at his party this weekend!

Jack's song

2009-05-28T14:52:00.000-07:00

Isn't Bubba sweet???

Camden Elise is S-I-X! Part 2

2009-05-21T19:24:00.001-07:00

Camden Elise is S-I-X!!! Part 1

2009-05-21T19:13:00.000-07:00

Our beautiful girl turned 6 last Wednesday! It's so hard to believe it's been 6 years already! And she has changed SO much!

Kindergarden has really changed her! She's now writing books for us in addition to her millions of pictures. She's making new friends and pretend playing more than ever. Karate is what she likes (for now) and she wants to do cheerleading in the fall. And she's also a big fan of watching music videos on You-Tube to relax after school. Her favorite artists are Carrie Underwood and Taylor Swift. At her 6 year check-up she weighed 43 lbs. and 45 inches (whoch are both right at average for her age.) She just seems so tiny because her brothers (who weigh 40 lbs. each) are such bruisers!

We celebrated with family on her actual birthday and had her party last Saturday. She loved her "Glitzy Girl" party complete with make-up, fake hair, nail painting, and tattoos! They were so cool! And the favorite gift was her very 1st American Girl Doll "Chrissa!" We totally faked her out, too! She asked for the doll onyl about a month ago so we told her she'd have to wait until Chrsitmas because (as you may know) they are "a little" expensive! When she opened the box she almost died! Definitely, the best reaction she's ever had to a gift! Great reward!

So here's to another healthy, happy year full of exciting new adventures with our Mama!

Delaney's 4 month stats

2009-05-21T19:08:00.001-07:00

So the girl went to the doctor last week for her 4 month check-up! Here are the stats:
Height: 24 inches (50th percentile) and Weight: 16 lbs. (90th percentile)
WOW! She's a chunk! But a very happy chunk! She is holding toys now and is able to put them in her mouth. She jerks her body around and buries her head when she's happy or excited. Smiles all the time and at everyone. And still sleeps all night -thank goodness. And she has left behind her swing (AKA bed) for the real deal: her crib! Now that she rolls both ways, she's sleeping on her belly in the crib. Gotta get some hair in the back now!

Mother's Day

2009-05-21T19:01:00.000-07:00

So it was my first Mother's Day as a Mama of 4!!! How special! Mimi and Pop took the kids overnight the night before so we woke up to just Delaney. And she let us sleep in until 9! Happy Mother's Day to me! We met up with everyone for breakfast that morning. After breakfast we came home and opened my handmade gifts from the kids. Reed made me a coupon book for lots of kisses (sweeet), Camden made me a picture book about the 2 of us (precious)and a potted flower, Jack also made me a potted flower and a book about me (that said I have gray hair and love honey but cheerios - very Jack), and little Delaney had Daddy make me a card (she's 4 months - what do we expect!) We just enjoyed the rest of the day napping and playing! AWESOME Mother's Day!!!

Irish twins!

2009-05-05T12:41:00.000-07:00

We think this is so funny! Right now, the boys are both 3 years old! This is what happens when you're 11 1/2 months apart. Irish twins!

Everyone told me that they'd be the best of friends. Two boys born less than a year apart. Ha! They do like each other (when they're getting into trouble together) but they can also be worst enemies. We'll see...

Reed: Then & Now

2009-05-05T12:21:00.000-07:00

Reed is 3!!!!!!!!!!!!

2009-05-05T11:51:00.001-07:00

Our little man celebrated his third birthday yesterday! It's hard to believe it's been 3 years already! Here are Reed's newest tricks:
- Talking in full-on paragraphs
- Using the word "NO" to answer everything
- Still climbing everything in sight
- Nicknames: beatle, Dr. No, Reedy McGreedy, Little man, Buddy
- Finishing up his first year of preschool
- Writes and colors using his left and right hands but holds a bat and glove left-handed
- Draws pictures of many things but they are all basically a circle with lots of legs and some eyes
- He already weighs almost 40 lbs. and is wearing 4T (again, he's just 3)

We are so lucky to have out little Reed!!!

Zoo trip

2009-04-29T12:44:00.000-07:00

Ah! Our favorite preschool field trip! Yesterday, Eddie and I took the boys and Delaney on their annual field trip to the Richmond Zoo. As always, it was a great time! Reed loved the bears and Jack loved Penguin feeding time!

Too busy to write this week

2009-04-27T09:43:00.000-07:00

Ah! "Birthday season" is in full swing! Reed's first with his 3rd birthday (May 4th), then it's Camden's turn (6 years old on May 13th), and then is Jack on the 20th (4 years old!) So we have parties, actual birth days, and class celebrations. Oh yeah, and everything else life normally has for us! I will write more later - just pictures this week!

This is what happens when pirates strike

2009-04-19T19:59:00.001-07:00

Poor Captain Jack! He was struck down by his own brother, Pirate Reed AKA Skunkbeard! Check out the cut near his eye! Guess what Mommy promptly threw away? 2 plastic pirate swords. Blame Daddy, he bought them!

Big talker (video)

2009-04-19T19:37:00.000-07:00

Miss D's new trick is talking to us! So sweet!!!

Family Fun Week

2009-04-19T19:23:00.000-07:00

Juggling birthday parties, playdates, school, preschool, work... Our lives! Multiply that by 4 kids and 2 adults and you're not left with a lot of free time. But we are left with TONS of good times with our wonderful, children. And they're getting smarter and funnier by the day. If I could freeze time - I just might! Here are some recent pic's!

More pic's of the baby - because she's so darn cute!

2009-04-14T13:22:00.000-07:00

Check out my blue-eyed girl! She LOVES her thumb!!!

Ok - only 3 more Easter Pic's

2009-04-14T13:16:00.001-07:00

More Easter pic's

2009-04-14T13:13:00.000-07:00

Easter

2009-04-14T13:08:00.000-07:00

We had a terrific Easter surrounded by family and friends! The day started with a visit from the Easter Bunny. He left the kids sunglasses, flip-flops, candy, books,... Then we dyed our eggs. By late afternoon, the Cooper's, Johnson's, and Mimi and Pop arrived for an egg hunt and dinner. We even had Funcle and Katie over for desert. What a great day!

More pictures

2009-04-14T12:59:00.001-07:00

Picture Catch-up!

2009-04-14T11:34:00.001-07:00

Okay! we are overdue for a little kid catch-up and some new pictures!

Camden is doing so well in Kindergarden! She adores her teacher and her favorite subjects are literature, reading, and writing. She's even starting to like math - must get that from Eddie! Making books is her favorite pasttime. She tries to write all the words withour any spelling help. It's so cute the ideas she has and the pictures she can draw. She is growing taller (slowly but surely) but still seems tiny to me. But lately, her favorite thing is being a sister to Delaney. Always kissing her, holding her, and making pictures for her.

Jackson is crazy for karate! He's the littlest one in class but can throw a mean punch. So now we're teaching him when to hit and when not to. He is so full of energy - it has to be a boy thing. Although he can play on his own he prefers not to. Which usually leads to a fight between him and Reed :-(

Reed is almost as big as Jack now! He actually weighs about 2 oz. more than him! These "big boys" are up to about 40 lbs. Poor Camden is, too! Reed is crazy about the show Diego and loves pretend play. And he's even becoming more affectionate - allowing us to cuddle him more which is awesome!

And last, little Delaney is growing like a weed! At her 2 month check up (about 5 weeks ago) she was 13 lbs. 3 oz. and nearly 23 inches. Man! She is now sleeping from 8:30 pm until 5 am and wakes up to eat. Then back to bed until 9. It's been terrific! Plus, she's all smiley now and is cooing. She's been such a sweet addition to our gang!

Long time no post!

2009-03-11T06:04:00.000-07:00

So maybe camera broke AGAIN! This time Camden dropped it at her school dance! Last time I dropped it in the ocean, and the time before that, it broke on it's own. So last week we bought our 4th camera in 12 months - good lord! Did I mention that we also bought the safety plan so if I break it again we can return it for a new one? Good idea (3 cameras too late!) So I am busy uploading new pics to share from the old camera, new camera, and my phone. Be back soon...

2009-01-25T17:14:00.000-08:00

Delaney pictures

2009-01-25T17:11:00.000-08:00

No time for a post but here's some pictures!

"Little Dude" is a Dudette!!!

2009-01-22T14:18:00.000-08:00

Announcing the arrival of MISS Delaney Drew Olowiany!!!

Our little "ladybug" joined the family on Wednesday, January 7th, 2009. We got to the hospital at a very early 5 am and by 6:45 I was walking back to the OR for the c-section. It was pretty complication free. I had a spinal block and experienced my usual nausea. Within a couple of minutes, Dr. Weatherford was announcing that the baby was almost out. The next thing I knew Eddie was saying "I was right, you were wrong. It's a GIRL!" It took me a few minutes to process that what I truly believed was a boy was actually a girl. Then Eddie, the nurse, and the Dr. all said "Camden will be so happy!" Also, the name debate ended because the only name we agreed on was the girl name! By the way, my boy choice rocked and is now up for grabs - Beckett!

She weighed 7 lbs. 6 oz. and was 20 inches. So she was 1/2 lb. more than Camden and the same length. The boys each weighed 1/2 - 1 lb. more and were a whole inch longer. I guess that's why she seems so little to us!

When she came out she had a little trouble with extra fluid in her lungs. She cried on and off but the nurses wanted to be sure it was all gone so they called the NICU nurses. They remained very calm and kept us updated. Once the NICU nurse gave us the all clear I finally got to meet her. She looked just like Camden and Reed! So beautiful! Then we were headed back to our room. Once we got there, we announced to my girlfriend/extra nurse, Michelle, that we got another girl! Then she met Delaney and the nurse sent Delaney off to the nursery for further monitoring, with Eddie in tow.

After the pain meds finally arrived my parents, the kids, and my sister-in-law, Nichol, made their way to the room for the big announcement. Everyone gave their gender guesses and I announced that she was a girl! Camden was in total shock for about a day that she got the sister she wanted. What a great moment! Then, we called Nana! Who had insisted that the baby was a girl for 9 months!

We spent the next couple of days at the hospital getting to know her and being pampered by the wonderful nurses. My Mom stayed with the kids and they came to visit daily.

Very surprisingly, we were hospital roomies with some friends from college, Evan and Tracy. They had their baby on Monday so we got to cacth up with them and meet the little one before they went home. How crazy is that?

The boys are doing great with her! They fluctate between wanting to see her and forgetting she is here. We were a little worried that Reed would be jealous but he isn't. Camden wants to hold her all the time and holds her very well. It's so wonderful to see them all together! Our little brood we have dubbed "The Fantastic Four!"

Enough for now! Enjoy the pictures of our beautiful new addition1 She is such a sweet girl! We have been so blessed!

36 weeks

2008-12-29T16:01:00.000-08:00

All is going well with the pregnancy! We are almost 37 weeks and have only NINE DAYS TO GO!!! Last week, my dr. did an ultarsound to determine the babies weight. Much to her surprise, the baby was only about 6 lbs. 3 oz. I have been measuring 3 weeks ahead for several weeks, so I wouldn't be surprised if the baby comes out closer to 8 lbs. Reed was 8 lbs. 4 oz. so that makes more sense. Isn't each baby supposed to be bigger than the last. Camden was only 6 lbs. 12 oz. (such a peanut) and Jack was 7 lbs. 12 oz. Our family even has a gender/weight poll going. So far, half guessed boy and half guessed girl. Guess we'll know soon enough!

It's been a fun ride but I am ready for it to stop! I'm just trying to enjoy this last time being pregnant. But insomnia, acid reflux, a big ole belly make it tough. Oh well, it's very much a wonderful blessing!

Christmas pic's, Take 2

2008-12-29T15:56:00.000-08:00

Christmas pic's

2008-12-29T15:51:00.000-08:00

We had a WONDERFUL Christmas at our house this year! Loads of family and friends to spend it with! And heaps of presents! It took us until 2 pm to finish opening gifts so that should explain it all. Plus, the kids still like to play with each toy as they open it. not much longer, and they'll be rushing off to the next gift. So we'll enjoy it for now!

Camden asked Santa for clogs (like her teacher has), Reed and Jack asked for a new train and a pirate ship. Luckily, Santa was generous! And so were Mimi and Pop, Nana and Papa, Aunt Cole, Aunt Tori, And Funcle. Oh yeah, and Mommy and Daddy! We have some great new things to play with!!!

Because I am a SLACKER...

2008-12-17T06:33:00.000-08:00

Oh man! I stink at this whole blogging thing! So here are a few pictures to catch you up on all of our happeneings...

Attempting a group picture for our Christmas card!

2008-12-17T06:30:00.001-08:00

Failed! No pics of everyone together! Can you tell who was unhappy and uncooperative?

Belly shots and baby update

2008-12-17T06:25:00.000-08:00

Oh, I am growing more and more everyday (as my husband has pointed out!) These pics are from 2 weeks ago and I am now 35 weeks. Only 3 to go as the c-section is scheduled for Wednesday, 1/7/2009 at 7 am!

Things are going well with the pregnancy! No problems besides being uncomfortable, absent-mindedness, loads of heartburn,... But I can handle all of that! We have an ultrasound next Tuesday as my belly is measuring 3 weeks ahead of where I should be. I guess that Little Dude is quite big! Anyhow, we can't wait to meet our final addition and to see what "it" is!!!

Karate Camden and Karate Jack

2008-12-17T06:23:00.000-08:00

Here is their new favorite activity! I think Jack just has a crush on the teacher and Camden likes it "because the teacher says I'm good!" Whatever! They are wasy too cute doing it!

Grandparents Day

2008-12-17T06:19:00.001-08:00

Camden's school had a really fun day just for Grandparents! They had lunch with her (and 100 other Kindergardeners!) and then toured her classroom. Camden was so tickled because "she and Brynn (friend) had the most grandparents there!" How cool!

More 1st Chrsitmas pics

2008-12-17T06:17:00.000-08:00

Our 1st Christmas and Thanksgiving

2008-12-17T06:13:00.000-08:00

AKA Nana, Papa, and cousin Nathan come to visit!

We had a BLAST with our gang a few weeks ago celebrating Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Eddie's Birthday! It was SO cold that I think Nana and Papa had to go back to FL to thaw out! It was an awesome visit! Plus, Nana will be back very soon to visit again and help with the new baby!

Scoot gets married!

2008-12-17T05:57:00.001-08:00

Here are a few shots from Scottie and Kendra's wedding 2 weekends ago. It was a beautiful winter wedding complete with snow that started just before the ceremony - how perfect! The pcitures of Eddie and I didn't turn out (go figure!) So here's one of the newlyweds and me and my girlfriend, Anne.

Baby update

2008-11-04T07:27:00.000-08:00

Oh, I am so behind in my updates - so sorry!

The pregnancy is sailing by! I will be 29 weeks tomorrow! It's hard to believe but, trust me, I feel all of that 29 weeks. I took the gestational diabetes test last week and passed. Which is great! And I also got my rhogham shot since I am a negative blood type.

At least my appt's are getting more exciting. Unfortunately, they are also getting more frequent. I go every 2 weeks from last week until week 36. Then it's every week until my c-section. It looks like that date will be somewhere between January 7th-9th. My dr. won't let me go over 38 weeks 4days so those are the choices.

Oh yeah! And on top of all this my beloved Dr. is switching practices! Of course, I go with her! So our final baby will be born at a different hospital than everyone else. It will be a change but we'll be fine!

Other than that, I guess not much else to report! Just trying very hard to enjoy this last go round! We feel so lucky to get to do this 4 times over! And man, the anticipation of boy or girl is killing me!!!

These pictures are of the belly at 25 weeks so I will post more later.

Halloween pictures

2008-11-04T07:14:00.001-08:00

SO CUTE! This year we had 2 little pirates, 1 big Daddy pirate, 1 little ladybug, and 1 Mommy ladybug (with her own round baby belly!)We had over friends and family over to dinner and then were off to the fall festival at the preschool. It was a blast complete with games, candy, a cakewalk, music, a firetruck tour, barrel train rides, and a moonbounce. On the way home (we live so close we walked) we hit a few houses to trick-or-treat. It was a great night! Enjoy the pics!!!

Just voted...

2008-11-04T07:06:00.001-08:00

So we stuck to that plan to vote early this morning. Eddie and I woke up the kiddos, grabbed some snacks for the wait, and off we went. We got in line at right before 6 am and by 6:45 we were headed back to our car. Right on! What a great experience! The kids were great! People even commented on them so they must have been good. And it felt great to vote! Of course, I voted for Obama/Biden and can't wait to watch CNN all day for updates! Eddie, on the other hand, voted for Bob Barr of the Libertarian party. I must say, I do agree with that party in many ways but felt my heart leans toward Barack. He is so inspiring and motivating! And in my opinion, just what this country needs! Stay tuned...

Hope your voting went as well as ours!!!

Toy Room gets a re-do

2008-10-23T09:58:00.000-07:00

Yippee! I LOVE Ikea! They have helped us organize the kids toys so that they can see them all. Therefore, playing with everything. Not just dumping bins to see what's in them. You know what I mean!

We have the best bookcase/toy organizer now! It's the 4 bins down by 4 bins across thing. It's my favorite piece and it's tethered to the wall for safety. Not that anyone I know would pull it over, of course! We have a smaller bin holder for trains, kitchen stuff, lego's, matchbox cars, etc. Love it, too! Then the rest of the room is divided into "center's." A preschool term for our "cafe," "train table," "play area" for reading or puzzles, and the top of the book shelf is the "library." Camden has named them all - very well I might add! We even have a clothes line thing to hang up art. Thanks Parents magazine for that idea. No more taping pictures everywhere.

Just thought you'd like to see this toy room/preschool. I LOVE to organize and am apparently nesting!

Steeler's fans

2008-09-23T15:10:00.001-07:00

Just because

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

Camden has us take pictures everyday before school, now. So here are a few more!

Jack and Reed are preschoolers!

2008-09-09T16:54:00.000-07:00

They did it! And no one even cried! We dropped Reed into the 2's and said see you at lunch. He kissed us and went back to playing with cars - WOW! Next was Jack (who wouldn't leave my side at the classroom visit.) He hung up his bag, kissed us, and went onto playing with markers - WOW!

Apparently they WERE listening when we hammered away at them "you're big boys and don't need to cry!" We picked them up at lunch and they were exhausted. Jack is even talking about going back to see hsi friend "Ryan."

We are so proud of them!

It's a...

2008-09-09T16:46:00.000-07:00

BABY!!! We remained strong! And by "we" I mean Eddie. The baby looks great but was pretty uncooperative. We barely got any profile shots so the ultrasound tech pulled out the 4D. Again, uncooperative! So we have a picture of our little one with it's chin pressed into his or her chest. Looking like it has no chin - which the tech swears it does.

So the best news of all is that "little dude" is healthy and growing right on schedule. Weighing in at 13 oz! Here's a belly shot for fun - WOWZA! I am now 21 weeks or 5 months!

"K5 Camden's" her name!!! Being adorable's her game!

2008-09-03T19:18:00.000-07:00

Our baby is a big girl! Well, she's not a baby but she is our first. Yesterday, Camden started Kindergarten! She handled it like a rock star and Mommy did not cry until she was gone.

It was a very long day for Eddie and I just waiting and waiting for her to get home. She shared lots about her first day. Her teacher had a cute shirt and was nice, bells ring when school starts, she had art and Lucy liked her picture, Brynn is in her class, lunch was yummy,... Apparently, she got her love for yacking from someone in our family!

Today went well, too. They are working on class rules and had music. But overall her favorite part of school is the BUS! How cute is that? Here are some pics from yesterday.

Eddie and I are so proud of her and how brave she is! And Mommy is very lonely without "the girl" all day! I think the boys are enjoying all of my attention.

Pictures of the growing baby belly

2008-08-10T19:20:00.000-07:00

Here I am at 16ish weeks (AKA 4 months) and feeling a little big already. Camden reminds me daily of that fact!!!

These kids LOVE some Firetrucks!!!

2008-04-17T19:14:00.000-07:00

Over Spring Break my brother and I took the kids to visit a fire station. Yes - we are crazy! It was Chris, Jack, Camden, Reed, cousin Itoria, and me. But they behaved so well! And the firefighters were so great! We got to sit in the trucks, wear helmets, hold a water hose, look at their special gear, and they even taught us what to do if the firefighters need to find us in a dangerous situation. What an awesome day!

And just in case you don't know, Jack would KILL to be a fireman! Isn't he the cutest one you have EVER seen???

Sorry for the picture overload - they are just so happy in these shots!

Easter pics - better late than never!

2008-04-17T19:11:00.000-07:00

Man! The Esater Bunny hooks it up better than he used to!!!

A special surprise weekend!

2008-04-17T19:09:00.002-07:00

Guess who showed up last Friday for a surprise weekend? Nana and Papa! All the way from Florida because WHY? They can't get enough of their grandchildren! Isn't that awesome!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

More pics of our favorite baby

2008-04-17T19:00:00.000-07:00

We were lucky enough to have a visit with Michelle and Baby Olivia on Momday. It was the first time the boys have met her and they loved her. Jack has been asking to play with her for weeks even though she was still in her Mommy's tummy. But when she got here he checked her out and went back to his Fireman show. Amazingly, Reed took to her. He showed me her eyes, nose, ears, and hair

How is it time already for kindergarten?

2008-04-17T18:49:00.000-07:00

No, no, no! There is NO WAY my baby is ready for this! Okay, so maybe Camden is ready but Mommy is certainly NOT!

Today we went to the first day at our new school. It was Kindergarten Registration and we stuck out like a sore thumb. New parent alert! But we made it through the whole process. We filled out all the paperwork, Camden was tested for kindergarten readiness, we reviewed the test (she ROCKED), and we toured the school with the principal.

Camden got to go with her friend and neighbor, Brynn, and she knew 2 other girls from preschool last year. One of our neighbors also works there as an aide. So knowing a few people should help, right? It's really exciting but very scary (again for me not her!) I know Camden will do terrific and I will continue to hide my ridiculous fears. Enjoy the pics of our "big" girls!

Introducing Olivia...

2008-03-31T08:01:00.000-07:00

She's here! She's here!

Michelle and Jim welcomed Baby Olivia on Saturday at 6:40 pm. All went VERY well and they are heading home today. She weighs 7 lbs. 11 oz. and is 20 inches long. Not bad at all for 37 weeks. We are ALL over the moon with her arrival and just know that Mason is watching over them! Enjoy all the pictures! I can't stop taking them and am completely in love with my new "niece!"

A year ago

2008-02-25T19:48:00.000-08:00

Has it been a year already? Michelle and I were talking about it earlier today and we've decided that some days it seems like it was a few months ago and other days it's surreal, almost like it never happened.

One year ago tomorrow I received the worst news. A pain that no parent should ever experience. My closest girlfriend lost her 1st child to stillbirth. The news was, and still is, devastating.

The weeks that followed were hard, to say the least. But Michelle and Jim are amazing people who have fought through this together. Their daughter's memory will be forever engraved on my heart.

I love you Michelle and think of you and Mason Olivia often.

Valentine's Day cuties

2008-02-25T19:46:00.001-08:00

Holy cow! These kids are C-U-T-E!!! (Yes, I am biased!) And they are growing up way TOO fast!

Seven years already?

2008-01-07T07:51:00.000-08:00

Where has the time gone? Yesterday, Eddie and I celebrated our 7 year wedding anniversary. My sister-in-law (who ROCKS!) came over and we went out to dinner at a non-kid-friendly restaurant and a movie. It was great to be alone and we have promised to do it more often.

I am so thankful for my husband! He makes make laugh and loves me more than I deserve! And he's given me the greatest gifts, our children. It's hard to believe that in 7 years we have 3 children. Wow! We are so very lucky!!!

Visiting Santa

2008-01-05T12:32:00.001-08:00

My sister-in-law, Nichol, and I took the kids to visit Santa this year! And to our great surprise, everyone liked him and there was zero crying.

Jack asked for "presents, black ones" although we don't know what that means. And Camden requested yet another doll. At least they're not asking for a Wii or a computer, yet...

Christmas with the O's

2008-01-05T12:21:00.000-08:00

Can anyone spell C-H-A-O-S? That's what you get when you have 3 kids under 5 who can now all open their own presents. Keep in mind, that 2 of them, can't read and think that every present is theirs. So what you get is a lot of confusion and a TON of presents!

We had Christmas in VA a week before we went to FL. It was awesome! My parents were here, Eddie's older sister, Nichol, and my brother and his fiance, Chris and Katie. We had a terrific dinner followed by about 2 hours of present opening. We had a great holiday and we all love the new toys.

Next, we headed to FL for 8 days of warm weather and our second Christmas. It was great seeing everyone one and catching up. Between my kids and the rest of the family, there are now 7 grandchildren. 5 of which are 2 and under - WOW! but it went really well and the kids loved playing with all of their cousins, aunts, uncles, etc. We even had lunch on Christmas Eve with our high school buddies. How fun!

Among the favorite toys were:
Camden: dolls and doll stuff, a picture board, and make-up
Jack: fireman stuff, a scary dinosaur, and Spiderman
Reed: a puzzle,chapstick, and candy (Can you tell that he's only 1 1/2?)

So now we're home and searching for places to put all of our new stuff. All I can say is that Santa has nothing on Mimi & Pop and Nana & Papa! We are so lucky!