The Fiocca Kids

Our First Snow of the Season!!

2012-01-03T20:44:00.001-05:00

Winter has finally arrived in Winchester!! It started snowing earlier this afternoon and now it looks like it has stopped. We probably got about 2 inches or so. The kids are hoping school is cancelled for tomorrow. We haven't got a call yet, which means we will probably get one at 6:00am. If school's not cancelled we will more than likely have a delay.

P.S I know it's been over a year since my last post but I am going to give this blogging thing another try. I'm posting from my phone by the way. How cool is that??

Summer Fun!

2010-07-30T22:57:00.021-04:00

This is the first year I actually went through with my intentions of signing the kids up for swimming lessons. I had been wanting to for a while but just never did. This year I just did it, a friend of ours was doing it and so I signed both Jacob and Jenna up to do it the same week as them. No excuses, it was done. The kids absolutely LOVED swimming lessons. Jacob advanced from level 1to level 2 and Jenna had to stay in the minnows class as she decided she didn't want to really stick her face in the water when the instructors wanted her to. My little stubborn girl. We have been spending a fair amount of time in the water this Summer whether it's been at swimming lessons, or at a pool or at friends houses in some other form of water fun. It surely has been a hot Summer and a very busy one at that.

I know it's only been 9 months since our last post, oops. Don't really have to much of an explanation, just been busy. I am going to try and get back into the whole grove of blogging again. I know there's a few people out there who still check in to see how we are doing. Keep your fingers crossed I don't have any issues with uploading our pics cause a few friends have had issues with that. Eventually I will have a new website for the kids but I haven't made time to figure out the new hosts ins and outs of how to organize the site. I will let everyone know when I do get it up. Hope everyone is having a fabulous Summer cause it's almost over. Not to burst any one's bubble but school does start in like 26 days, YIKES! My baby (big boy) will be a First Grader and Jenna will be starting her LAST year of Preschool (insert tears, here). Where in the world does time go? If someone figures this out please share with me. Now for some pictures from the last week or so...........

Fun at The Family Drive-In

Swim Lessons!

Jenna's class watching Jacob's class jump off the diving board

Her first time off the diving board she had to lowered into the pool. The second time she jumped all by herself.

Pool time and then snack time

10 Years!

2009-10-02T00:22:00.004-04:00

Happy Anniversary Babe! I love You!

Looking forward to our day/night together, can't wait to see what you have planned for us. I love our life together. Our life together has been like an awesome roller coaster, you know one of those ones that takes your breath away. I am enjoying every minute of it. I love our ride we are taking together. I thank God everyday that you moved in across the street from me. Couldn't imagine my life any other way and wouldn't want it any other way. I love growing with you and looking so forward to growing old and grey with you. You are the BEST husband and father. I love you so very much. Thank you for the life you have given me and thank you for our two wonderful children. You have given me more than I could have ever wished for. I cherish everyday that we have together. Here's to many, many more years together..........Love you my chicken!

Disclaimer: I know I probably have many errors in grammar and punctuation but you cannot edit this for me this time as it is to you. : ) Love you!

Hellooooo....

2009-09-17T00:15:00.001-04:00

Yep, we're still here. We are hitting the road yet again, tomorrow afternoon for the airport this time. We are heading out to Cali for a buisness/pleasure trip. Buisness for Daddy and pleasure for the kids and I. Daddy will get to spend a few days with us before the buisness part begins. We can't wait we have lots of fun stuff planned for our visit. I will definetely have lots and lots of pics to share.

Mom and Dad/Grandma and Grandpa I hope you are ready cause

HERE WE COME!

"First Day of School, First Day of School........"

2009-08-30T22:30:00.007-04:00

Jacob had his first day of Kindergarten on Wednesday the 26th. He had a great first day and he is enjoying going to school. We made it through the first week, it was only three days but we still made it. I think that I did pretty well with him going to school. I only cried for a minute when he got on the bus and when it drove away. After he got on the bus we drove over to the school and watched him get off the bus from the street. He was so cute, just hopped right off and into the school he went. He's very excited because he has some friends in his class, one of our neighbors' and a boy that went to his preschool. He is really enjoying riding the bus. It's the cutest thing, when he comes home in the afternoon it's him, Lauren and Johnny (who is now in 1st grade) all sitting in the same seat together. He brought home some homework on Friday and had to do it as soon as we walked in the front door. I just hope he stays this ambitious about homework through the rest of his school career. Now onto the pictures.........

Walking out the front door to the bus stop.

With Mommy at the bus stop and with Daddy

With Sissy

Waiting for the bus

Here comes the bus......Good Morning Jacob!

There he goes.......

Hopping off the bus just as happy as he can be

Going into the building

On his way home!

Are you Jacob Fiocca?

Here he comes still smiling...A good first day!

With his friends..Lauren and Johnny

Peach Pickin'

2009-08-20T14:32:00.007-04:00

First they rode on the Cow Train and then we were off to go Peach Pickin'...............

The end result a very heavy bag of peaches. They were oh so yummy though. We all had a great time, even though it was hotter than heck out. As soon as we were done picking we left for home. That afternoon Joe and I went out for our own little date night. We had dinner and then went and saw The new Harry Potter movie. We have been busy as usual, we did the peach picking actually a couple of weekends ago, right after my last post. I just thought I'd share the pics still even though it was two weeks ago. Gradually I will catch up with sharing all our adventures of the Summer. We have also since we to a Nats game, been to the pool twice with friends and done some running around school shopping. This weekend (tomorrow) we are taking the kids on a last minute surprise trip to the beach, just a one night stay. I have to be back a t work on Sunday. I will definitely have lots of pictures from that trip to share I am sure. Just a good note to end our Summer on, nothing like a beach trip even if it is short.

In other news, with Summer ending this means new beginnings......Our Big Boy Jacob is starting Kindergarten in less than a week. I can't believe it he has grown up so fast. He's super excited and can hardly wait. He is so happy that he gets to ride the bus to school. More to share on his adventures I am sure. Hope everyone is enjoying their last days of Summer. Until next time.......

Fun with Friends....

2009-08-06T23:50:00.007-04:00

On Tuesday this week we went over to our friend's house and the kids had a great time playing on their big water slide. We finally had good enough weather for them to play out on the slide for a few hours. We had been trying to get them all together to play on the slide for a couple of weeks but everyday we had planned for it it ended up raining. Again our weird Summer weather. They all had such a good time, they really didn't want to stop but it was getting too hot and it was lunch time. Jenna even had a ball this time. When the kids first went on the slide on the fourth of July she only went down it twice. This time she went round and round we even had to tell her more than a few times to stop cutting in line in front of all the boys. On to the pictures.......Only a few, but a few is better than none at least I remembered my camera this time. : )

Jenna hitting the bottom... Jacob taking it a little sideways

Gotta love those legs, She flew down the slide so fast.

This weekend is going to be a busy weekend for us. I am sure I will have lots of pics to post after the weekends over and all settled down. Tomorrow we have a little running around to do in the early afternoon. Then tomorrow night we have our annual Light the Night kickoff party and it's at Nationals Stadium again. Go Nats! We will have our party and then onto the game, they are playing the Arizona Diamond Backs. On Saturday Jacob has his last Saturday game and then maybe Mommy and Daddy are going to get to go to the movies to see the new Harry Potter movie since we haven't got to see it yet and Nana's back home now. Nana has something fun planned for Jacob and Jenna on Sunday after church and Daddy will be going to see his friend Brandon race. I of course will be at work and it's going to be a early day for me...start time 6:30 a.m. oh and did I mention it's TAX FREE WEEKEND. Yeah it's going to be crazy busy at work this weekend. Needless to say we will all be busy and like I said I am sure I will have lots of pics to share. Have a great weekend all.........

One Month and Counting.....

2009-07-31T23:17:00.023-04:00

Hi all! I know it's been forever since we have had an update but I have tried to update but was experiencing some problems with uploading pictures to blogger. So here we are a month and a half later. We have managed to stay pretty busy this summer. As you can see we have done a little bit of everything. Lots of water activities when the weather has permitted. We have had lots of plans to spend more time in the water but our weather hasn't been our typical Summer weather. Starting from the top we have went to the park with friends, Jacob of course has had T-ball practice and is now playing games. Daddy and Jacob went and watched Brandon race, then there was fireworks in the park on the 3rd of July, and on the fourth of July we went our neighbor's for our annual 4th of July celebration during this time we had also our annual visit from our niece Alyssa. Then like I said Jacob's T-ball game started, then we made a short trip up to Hershey, PA we visited Hershey Park the first day in which the kids loved the water portion of the park. We spent most of the time at the park in the water, the weather turned out really good the first day we were there. Our second day in PA we visited Chocolate world, we watched the Really Big 3D Show and went on the trolley tour around the town. Next the kids went to a birthday party at Kidz Play here in Winchester for some friend's, then for one week Jacob had Vacation Bible School in which he loved. He had a lot of fun and made some new friends and had some fun with some old ones too. While Jacob was at VBS Jenna and I frequented the park. Next we went to a friend's house for a BBQ, again the kids played in some more water having a ton of fun with their friends. Then there was Jacob's T-ball Pool Party that last all of 45 minutes until a huge storm came. Next we went to a really cool water park/pool in the next county over called Franklin park. The kids absolutely loved it there. I have no pictures from there because I forgot my camera, oops. The following week we went to another water place in WV with friends again. More T-ball in between of course, we are averaging one game during the week and one Saturday game. We only have a week and a half of T-ball left though. Last but certainly not least we went to the Drive-in with friends tonight. So there you have it our last month and a half. Like I said busy, busy.

Summer is going by so fast. We have less than a month and our baby will be starting Kindergarten. I can hardly believe it. I have his school supply list and have bought everything on it except the Playdoh. It is actually a lot shorter than I thought it was going to be. Jacob is really excited about starting school. About a week after Jacob starts school Jenna will be returning to Preschool. Which she is also looking forward to. In September we will be making a trip out to California for a business/personal trip. Daddy has an annual meeting thingy and it's in Anaheim this year. Right across the street from you know where.....Disneyland. We are going to take the kids along with my parents and possibly my brother to Dland for one day. We are also planning on seeing my Grandma and some friends. Most of our time there is planned for, LOL. The kids can hardly wait to see Grandma, Grandpa and Uncle Matt and the rest of the gang and also to go to DLand. Hope everyone else is having a great Summer. We are thoroughly enjoying ours. The weather could be a little bit better but why complain. It'll eventually come around, right? Again sorry about the long delay I am going to try and be better at updating now that I know what the problem was. Till next time......

Our Super Duper Mini Chefs

2009-06-20T22:57:00.002-04:00

This morning we ventured to our mall to join the hundreds of people for The Kidgits Club activity Super Duper Mini Chefs. It started at 11:00 am and went until 1:00pm. We were there the entire two hours. The kids really enjoyed it. We had to wait in line a while since we were running late as usual and didn't get in line until 11am. Once we got into the activity area it wasn't as bad. There was eight different activity stations, Fruit Smoothies, Build a Snack, Nugget Dips, Cookie Making, Apron/Potholder Craft,Measuring Activity, Pizza Roll Ups, and Cereal Necklace. Plus the kids got an apron and chef hat to wear while doing the activities and a little gift bag that was a baking kit. The baking kit came with an actual 6 cup muffin pan. a whisk, a bowl, a couple cookie cutters and measuring spoons. They both can't wait to use them in our kitchen to help Mommy.

Jacob's T-ball practice was cancelled again because of the rain. Hopefully the weather will hold up this as he is supposed to have practice again on Thursday. Then on Saturday his team has pictures. We don't have too much other than that going on. We are going to try and get together with some friends this week for the kids to play. Again counting on the weather holding up for us.

Now for some pictures of my little chefs.......

Fun Times!

Pictures are Finally Here.....

2009-06-16T11:06:00.004-04:00

Here it is finally! I am sorry it took me so long. It was kind of hard to narrow the 2000 pictures down. I managed to narrow them down to 200 or so. Just a warning the video is pretty long like 11 minutes. As you will see we meet lots and lots of characters. This was one of the kids favorite things to do, anytime we saw a character we had to stop. Another one of the kids favorites on our trip was the penny/coin presses. We also had to stop at lots of those. As you will also see Jacob did a very good job smiling in the pictures as long as he was with Princesses. It was kind of funny. You will also see that it didn't rain the whole time we were there but a good part of it. Just so you know we are not only happy when it rains, it's just the song I picked out it kind of seemed fitting. All in all we had a really good time, and the kids keep asking when we get to go back. Hope you enjoy the video.

Walt Disney World - May 2009 on Vimeo.

Get Ready!

2009-06-12T21:52:00.005-04:00

Believe it or not I am actually in the process of trying to put some of the pictures from our WDW trip together to share with you all. I know it's only almost a month after our trip but as most of you know it's been a very busy month for us. Until the pictures are here, how about some updates.....

My Jenna....

As you know she is officially three. We had her three year check up this past Monday and she is growing quite well. Are you ready for this? My little peanut is FINALLY on the chart for her weight. I could hardly believe it myself. Her entire life she has been in the -3% for her weight. On Monday June 8th she officially hit the positive side of the scale. She weighs 25.9lbs and is in the 3%. WooHoo! I couldn't be happier. She gained 4 lbs from last year. She is now a tall 35 inches. She has grown quite a bit since last year almost as much as she's gained. She grew about 3 and 1/2 inches. Much more than I thought. She had her vision test and she passed with flying colors. I had questioned the vision test because I didn't remember Jacob having to do it. The nurse said they always try but most three year olds cannot do the test. That made me very happy that Jenna did it and passed. For now she does not have my horrible vision. Thank goodness. She continues to keep me on my toes, and amazes me on a daily basis.

My Jacob....

He is officially a Kindergartner. We had his last day of school/therapy on Thursday. It was an emotional day for me. Not only does it mean he is going to Kindergarten but we also had to say goodbye to a very special lady. Mrs Clay his speech therapist, he has been seeing her since just before he turned three. For the past two and a half years we have seen her at least once a week. She has made a tremendous impact on our Jacob. Because of her Jacob's speech has made leaps and bounds. I cannot even tell you how much he has progressed. Most of you know where we were at when we started and how much Jacob has changed. Like I said it was a hard day for Mommy. Not so much for Jacob. We promised we would stop by and see her at her new school, once we get settled in at his new school. Not much else going on with my Jacob. He is starting T-Ball soon. We were supposed to have his first practice on Thursday but they cancelled it because of the weather, we are now rescheduled for Tuesday. Jacob is really excited about getting to play Baseball, like his cousin John.

Hope everyone is enjoying their Summer so far. Can't wait for the rain to go away so we can have some fun with kids outside. It seems that the rain may have followed us home from Florida, sorry. I am almost half way done uploading our pictures to One True Media. Next up pictures.......

Our Jenna....

2009-06-05T01:44:00.001-04:00

Seriously where in the world does time go? My BABY has went from.....

June 2006

To this......

May 2009

Just look at that little mischievous look on her face. I cannot believe that three years has gone by. It seems like not that long ago I was pregnant with her. She is such a character. She constantly has Joe and I on our toes. She's full of energy and she is definitely her Mommy's girl. Or at least I am told, when it comes to her personality. She's very opinionated and independent. Most of the time she wants to do what she wants to do and in her own way. She will always let you know if you are doing something different than the way she wants it. Like the whole potty thing. Some days it's all on her own and others it's Mommy you have to watch me, too cute. There's also her little soft girlie side. Yesterday she made it so hard for me to leave for work. She was pleading with me to stay home. "Mommy please don't go to work. Just stay Mommy." It broke my heart. She is also always wanting in on what her brother is doing. When they are getting along they are the cutest things in the world. Just too cute to describe, the way they are so kind to each other. I could go on and on about her and how much she has grown into to her own little person but I won't. Three people, my baby is three.

HAPPY 3RD BIRTHDAY JENNA!

We love you baby girl. You make our lives so complete.

With lots and lots of love,

Mommy,Daddy and Jacob

XOXOXO

Happy Birthday Mommy!

2009-06-01T10:28:00.004-04:00

From the Fiocca Kids and Daddy, Happy Birthday, Mommy!!

Yay, John!

2009-05-31T23:48:00.006-04:00

Yesterday we attended the High School graduation of our Nephew John. It was a very lovely ceremony. We could not be more proud of him. We have watched him grow into a fine man. I have so many memories of John growing up. I still can't believe he's 18 and now a High School graduate. Here's some pictures from his day yesterday..........

CONGRATULATIONS JOHN!

Class of 2009

I am having problems uploading my pictures right now. I don't know if it's Blogger or this slow connection we have. I will try again tomorrow.

****Up next I promise will be pictures from our WDW trip. Then more pictures from our current trip (Indiana).

Headed Home....

2009-05-25T17:50:00.004-04:00

Well it's been a long long while. I had to get us ready for our WDW trip and that took a little more preparing than I anticipated. We are on our way home now, we are actually in the car right now driving. We are in North Carolina, Joe just stopped for a snack at Jack in the Box. Something we used to eat frequently while living in Cali. We had a really good time on our trip regardless of the HORRIBLE weather we had just about EVERYDAY. I don't know if anyone watched the news but Florida had record breaking rain this past week. They went 6 months with no rain and when we came the rain came with us. In the 5 days that we were in Florida, Sun-Wed and then yesterday we got over 8 inches of rain. I can't wait to share all of the pictures we took and tell everyone about our fun time we had but the battery is about to die on the lap top so I must go for now. Until next time here's a picture from our first day, We were at Epcot.....

An Early Celebration...

2009-05-12T13:19:00.004-04:00

Today at Preschool Jenna had her little birthday party as she won't be in school when it is actually her birthday. She had lots of fun with her little friends. We had snack and then some cupcakes that I made at Jenna's request. She looked so adorable today in her little polka dot dress. Here's a few pictures for your enjoyment......

Happy Mother's Day!

2009-05-10T00:00:00.005-04:00

Here's a little something the kids and I did for Mother's Day! We love you!

Take Your Kids to Work Day!

2009-04-24T22:19:00.003-04:00

Jacob got to go with Daddy to work yesterday. He had a really good time. One of Joe's friends from work also brought her son. There was also like another hundred or so kids there. The Library of Congress was a hoppin' place yesterday. Jacob did very well considering that he got up at 4am to go with Daddy. He did nap on the way in and on the way home though. Daddy took a ton of pictures while Jacob was there, lots of Jacob and some of just of The Library with the new camera. Here are some of the 160 some odd pictures Joe took.......

Starting out the day-----Sitting at Daddy's desk

Jacob and Caleb getting ready for breakfast---Jacob in the main Reading Room

Jacob didn't like how high the ceiling way in the MRR---Sitting at a readers desk

Taking it all in, still in the MRR---This is the room where some of "Book of Secrets" was filmed.

More books---Jacob and Caleb loved the interactive touch screens

In The Great Hall---Going up stairs, now

Jacob looking at The Capitol, next door----Another interactive screen, in The Great Hall

Filling out his paper work for his fingerprinting--Getting his prints done in the badging office

In the book stacks, behind the scenes

What a day they had. Joe's boss asked where Jacob was today. He enjoyed his company, I guess. He's getting to be such a big boy. My little man. I can't believe that the school years almost over and before we know it he's going to start Kindergarten. Hmmm.......My baby, Kindergarten.

In other news Jenna is feeling much better. Fever is gone for the most part. She is 100% acting like her normal self. We will still be on antibiotics for another 6 and 1/2 days. She is also only wearing Pull-Ups at night now. Woo Hoo! She's doing so good with the potty training. I am still keeping my fingers crossed that will be good to go for our WDW/Cruise trip. That's in 22 Days for anyone that keeping track with me. We leave for our trip down in 3 weeks from tomorrow. I am trying to slowly get things together so I am not doing it at the last minute. We are supposed to have some more nice weather tomorrow. We had a really nice day today. We hung out in the yard for a bit today. The kids had a ball hanging out with their friends, it took some coaxing to get them to come in. They are loving this nice weather just as much as I am.

Our Day!

2009-04-13T11:48:00.004-04:00

Hope everyone had a wonderful Easter. We had a nice some what quiet day. The best part was that I didn't have to go to work. It was very nice being able to be home the whole day with the family. Some how we forgot to take any pictures of the kids during their egg hunt. It was probably because Daddy was trying out the new video camera. We did manage to get a few of the kids while they were looking at their basket stuff.

Jacob checking out his Candy loot----What's in this golden egg Mommy?

Jacob waiting for me to figure out the new Operation game---Jenna showing off some candy

Look at that face, if only she were always that innocent!

Easter is Here...

2009-04-12T00:00:00.001-04:00

We hope that everyone has a wonderful Easter. To all of our family and friends we could not be with on this special day please know that we are thinking of you and missing you all so very much. Wishing you all nothing but the best for this special day and everyday.

Love to you all,

The Fiocca Family

XOXO

His Easter Party!

2009-04-09T23:50:00.007-04:00

Today was Jacob's Easter party. Everything went pretty well considering. I won't bore you with all those details. On a plus side Daddy dropped by for a bit. Jacob absolutely loved that. Daddy did almost all the picture taking. That was until he had to leave. He knows so much more about the new camera. He knows how to use it so much better. At Jacob's party we did all sorts of fun stuff. First we went outside for a small egg hunt. Then it was inside to dye Easter eggs, then we had a yummy snack, then we did a really fun craft. Braden's mom found it and really did a great job organizing it. It was little Easter Bonnet/Crowns cause on Easter everyone can wear crowns. After we did the craft we had story time. In which I had to read the story this time because our normal story reader wasn't there this time. We missed you Christine. I don't really do well with speaking in front of groups even if it is all four/five year olds. I managed though, then it was time to run around outside in the nice warm sun outside. Fun Times! The weather was fantastic today I only hope it's here to stay. I hope the forecast is wrong for the weekend at least Saturday anyway, I could definitely do without the rain. Oh well, onto to the pictures... Enjoy!

The Hunt is On!-------Egg dyeing and listening to Mommy so intently

Just posing for a pic!

Jacob being his silly self----Snack time

Craft time----A class picture with the Bonnet/Crowns on.

It's really hard and sad to believe that the end of the year is almost here. The Easter parties were their last parties. I am going to miss these next year with Jacob. My little big boy is growing up way too fast. I can't believe that in a short 4 and a half months he will be starting Kindergarten already.

Her Easter Party!

2009-04-09T00:04:00.005-04:00

On Tuesday Jenna had her Easter party at school. All the kids seemed to have a good time. They dyed some eggs, hunted for some eggs, had a snack and then had story time. This party had the most parents, there was a total of six parents there and only nine of the ten kids were at school that day. I was not a party parent this time around but it's still fun to go and watch all the kids. Especially Jenna she is a completely different little girl at school. She is so quiet compared to the non stop talk we have at home. It really is funny. I guess I should say it's a blessing. I told Joe hopefully she will stay that way,you know quieter at school. She is like me in so many ways, when it comes to her personality. I only say I hope she stays on the quiet side because in school I was always getting talked to about my talking. Can you imagine that? I know what a surprise right. Ha! Ha! Only time will tell. Onto some pictures from the party....

Dyeing her eggs------Then she found two eggs

Look at these two matching cuties!----Yes, she was dipping her pretzel in her cupcake frosting.

And this one Jenna not paying attention to me trying to take her picture, She was more interested in Mrs. Kelly standing next to Mommy.

I am still hoping for better weather for the weekend. While we were at school yesterday there was some snow flurries. I could not believe it. I am waiting patiently for Spring to return. I am not sure how much longer I can be patient for. Hope everyone is enjoying their week.

Check Her Out!

2009-04-08T00:11:00.010-04:00

I honestly don't know where Jenna's obsession with jumping came from. She walks she jumps, she climbs on things and she jumps, it seems like she's constantly jumping. Sometimes it really scares me, for the most part it's usually walking and jumping and that is okay. A little tiring but it's still okay. Last night (because it's now 12:14 am) while I was at work Joe took this picture of Jenna. It cracks me up every time I look at it. She cracks me up. Here it is........

She was mid air jumping off of her Dora bike. Just look at that face and her hair. Too funny! Joe was messing around with our new flash for our new camera. I can't remember if I've mentioned this before or not but back in January we bought a new camera. Joe is doing so much better with learning how to use it to it's full potential. I on the other hand need to spend more time trying to learn how to use it on any mode other than automatic. Joe is doing all sorts of reading up on how to use it and well I know I've said this before I am not much of a reader. Enough about that I hope everyone enjoys my silly girl in this picture. Thanks Daddy for capturing this moment.

P.S If you click on the picture you can see it much larger and get the full effect.

Spring was Here?

2009-04-07T12:57:00.005-04:00

This weekend we had beautiful weather. It was definitely Spring weather, it seems that it is gone now. It was in the 70's on Sunday. Today while out it was flurrying. I can not believe that we are having flurries in April. I don't know what that is all about. I am really hoping that it is gone soon and our Spring weather is back and stays here until it's time for Summer. I was really hoping for nice weather this coming Easter weekend. It was nice to be able to be outside without having to wear a jacket. We did go and buy Jacob a new bike on Saturday and he was able to take it for a little ride on Sunday when I got home from work. We found him the perfect helmet at Toys r us and the best part was that it was on clearance for 7 bucks. Of course it has Buzz Lightyear on it one of Jacob's favorite characters on it. Jenna rode around in Jacob's little Cozy Coupe while he rode his bike with Daddy. Now for a few pictures to share.....

A Trip to the Airport....

2009-04-01T13:02:00.002-04:00

Yesterday Jacob's class went to the local airport to see a helicopter. The kids really enjoyed getting to see and sit in the helicopter. We learned a whole lot about the helicopter, like the fact that it cost 4.5 million dollars, yep. It's a very expensive piece of equipment. The weather cooperated with us so that was good. We even got to see them pull it out of the hanger, they only did this so we could take a group picture with it outside. Here's a few pictures from our day......

Jacob with Kavon----------Jacob sitting in the helicopter

Jacob's class and the other class that went----Backing it back into the hanger.

Our Fun Day!

2009-03-28T14:32:00.006-04:00

Yesterday was a busy but fun day. In the morning we had friends over for a play date. The kids had a ball, mostly running around the house chasing each other. Then when it was time to leave the weather was really nice outside, so they decided to chase each other around outside a bit. After our play date we had lunch and then we ran to Target to get some candy for our trip to the movies. When Nana got home we headed out the door to meet Daddy at the movies. We went and saw Monsters vs. Aliens 3D. It was a very cute movie, Jacob enjoyed it very much. Jenna however did not wear her 3D glasses at anytime during the movie. She still enjoyed it though. The 3D effects were very cool. Jacob is ready to see it again. However we will be waiting for it to come to the $2.50 movies here in town. It will more than likely not be in 3D as those tickets were $4.00 more each ticket. But it will still be good nonetheless. After the movies we "had" to go to McDonald's for dinner for the kids as the started the toys for the Monsters vs. Aliens movie.

Jacob in his 3D glasses---------Jenna with her glasses on top of her head

While watching the movie we discovered that there is a couple more movies that are coming out in 3D this summer. Disney has a new movie called UP. Also one of Jacob's favorite movies is being re released in the fall. Toy Story is going to be back at the movies in October in 3D and then Toy Story 2 is to be re released on February 12th,2010 and TOY STORY 3 to be released June 18th, 2010.

Hope everyone is having a great weekend........

Rockin' The Red!

2009-03-18T14:35:00.006-04:00

We haven't really been overly busy lately or at least it seems. Busy enough though that I have been slacking when it comes to keeping everyone updated with pictures. I actually must confess I have been spending a pretty good amount of time when I am on the computer at The Dis Boards I am pretty sure I have mentioned this before. It's kind of gotten a lot worse as our trip gets closer. As of today we are 60 days out. Woo Hoo! I can hardly wait. I am in need of a vacation so badly.

Getting back to what we've been up to. This past weekend for Joe's birthday we headed into town first stopping at The Dulles Town Center for much needed haircuts. Jacob got his haircut and we just had Jenna's bangs trimmed. Then it was off to the metro station. Next we headed into D.C. for the Capitals vs Hurricanes hockey game. This was the first hockey game for Jacob and Jenna. Joe and I used to go to hockey games a lot when we were dating but it had been about 10 years since we had been to a game. They are always fun. The energy the crowd has is just awesome. The kids had a blast, at first Jacob wasn't to sure about the noise level. It was extremely noisy is the arena. After a while he was okay with noise and starting cheering along with everyone else. The Caps ended up winning in a shoot out, 5 to 4, it was awesome. In all the hockey games we've been to we had never seen a shoot out, it was really cool. Here's a little video of Jenna cheering The Caps on.......

Let's Go Caps!

And a some pics from the game.............

Fun Times!

Joey.....

2009-03-15T00:46:00.006-04:00

Happy Birthday!

We love you. Hope you are enjoying your birthday weekend. Looking forward to another great day with you and the kids. You are not just another year older but one more year full of wonderful. Can't wait for the next year of much happiness and many more adventures. You mean the world to me and the kids. Loving our life together and growing old with you.

Love you Babe,

Jamie

Jacob and Jenna, too

XOXOXO

Here She Is....

2009-03-11T09:34:00.006-04:00

My very dear friend Michelle who I've known since I was eleven years old, just had a beautiful baby girl.

Introducing Shiloh Grace McCoy

Born on March 5th @ 11:10 am

Weighing 7lbs 12oz and Measuring 20.25 inches

Proud Parents Michelle and Sean McCoy

Proud Big Sisters Destiny, Kiara, Haylee, and Gianna

Shiloh is four days old in this pic

Congrats Michelle and Sean! You make such beautiful girls. She is so precious. Look at those bright eyes. I just want to squeeze those little cheeks.

This is a picture from the last time we saw The McCoy girls before they moved from Cali to Washington state. Jacob was only eight months old then. Look at all those cuties. We miss you all so much

Missing You.....

2009-03-04T00:33:00.012-05:00

I have sat down and thought about writing this post several times in the past week. I just haven't been able to think of the right words. This is my attempt at writing the right thing.

Grandpa Rudy we miss you terribly. I think about you everyday. When I look at pictures of you I think of the all the happy memories I have. Thank God for those memories. You always knew how to make everyone laugh. You filled all of our lives with so much happiness and love. You are loved not only by all of your family but your many friends. I know that you are in a much better place now. You are happy, no longer in pain and you are not tired anymore. You are doing what you loved and missed most, fishing with Pops. I know that you will be keeping an extra eye on all of us, Grandma especially. Don't worry about her too much though she has lots of us near and far to help her with whatever she needs. Praying for you and all those that love you.

WE LOVE YOU GRANDPA RUDY!!!

~Rest In Peace~

Rudolph Aguilar

February 18th, 1935-February 25th,2009

Sharing just a few more pictures......

Mom and Dad's Wedding October 25th,1975----My Baptism 1977 (Me, Grandma Danice and Grandpa)

Laughlin, Nevada Mother's Day Weekend 1994

Me, Mom, and Grandpa---Grandpa, Me, Mom and Grandma Laughlin, Nevada Mother's Day Weekend 1994

Disneyland, California Grandpa, Mom, Grandma, Dad, and My Brother Matt

(Early 90's Not sure of exact date)

Grandpa and Matt-----Grandpa and Grandma @ Uncle Darren and Aunt Gaynor's Wedding 1996

Grandpa, Me (pregnant w/Jacob), and Grandma March 2003

The quality of these photos is not the greatest as some are copies of copies and then scanned. Sorry, hope you enjoy them. :-)

Today is YOUR Day!

2009-02-18T00:24:00.000-05:00

Happy Birthday Grandpa Rudy!

We Love You and Miss You.

***Update for yesterday. He is doing a little better. Oxygen level was lowered a bit so he is now doing some of his own breathing. They are going to try and slowly take him off his current pain med and put him on another one. This is so that they can hopefully get him to wake up. And hopefully figure out exactly what is going on. Fingers crossed that he wakes up today for his birthday. Thank you to everyone who is praying for him and sending all those positive thoughts his way.

Dinner is Set!

2009-02-16T23:53:00.008-05:00

For the most part anyway. Today we are at our 90 day mark. That is 90 days until our WDW vacation starts. At 90 days you are able to start making advanced dinner reservations (ADR). This morning after Breakfast Joe and I sat down and went over what we have planned thus far. Then we called the Disney ADR line and we now have ADR for all four nights we will be at the resort. We debated for quite some time when we first made our reservations for the vacation on whether or not we wanted to add the Disney Dining Plan to the vacation. We finally decided that it would be worth it for us and added it. The DDP gives us for each day we are there, a table service meal, a counter service meal and a snack. It doesn't cover all three meals each day but between snacks and all we will have plenty of food for the four of us.

We are having three Character meals. The most important one being our first one of the trip is at Cinderella's Royal Table. It is at the castle and we are having breakfast. Jenna could not be any happier. She is so excited that she gets to dress up as Cinderella and then gets to meet her at her castle. There will also be the fairy godmother there and a few other princesses but we are not sure of who at this point. We made there reservations a couple of months ago. Reservations for CRT are allowed to be made 120 days out. For any one else planning on going and wanting to have a meal at the castle. It books up really fast. Joe actually called the other day to see if we could get an earlier time for our breakfast and that day is already completely booked no availability for the entire day. Oh well, our time isn't a bad time it's just if we could have got in earlier we would have been able to get in the park before it opens.

Can you tell that I am getting really excited? In about 3 weeks or so we can start reserving our activities for the cruise portion of our trip. I can hardly wait to see what is available for the kids to do.

Most of computer time lately is being consumed by The DIS BOARDS. Just about anything you could ever want to know about Disney vacations is on there. So if you are curious about anything, just even thinking of planning a trip go give them a look. Seriously any question you could ask , you will probably find an answer on there some where from someone. It's very addictive, you can just read and read. That's partly what helped us decided on doing the DDP, and some of the places we decide to eat at. That's what's been occupying my time, lots of reading and planning.

Hope everyone had a great Valentine's Day weekend. We had a very nice dinner at The Daily Grill in Tyson's Corner. The kids had an afternoon of fun with Nana.

****One last thing a small request rather, another huge thing that has been on my mind since Saturday evening. My Grandpa is in the hospital in So. Cal. He was admitted for low blood sugar, he is diabetic. After being admitted he had a small heart attack. They haven't been able to do a whole lot for him at this point because he is having breathing complications. My Mom said he looked better yesterday than he did on Saturday. She is keeping us updated as often as she can. Please if you have an extra moment in your day say a little prayer for my grandpa and my grandma who is by his side. I absolutely hate that I am all the way across the country from them, this has been very hard for me. I am so glad that the rest of my family is able to be close to him. Thanks for listening.

It's Like Riding a Bike

2009-02-13T23:18:00.010-05:00

It was approximately 12 years ago the last time I put on a pair of ice skates. It has been since we moved away from So. Cal. Joe and I used to go a lot, he played ice hockey for a few years. Since he knew how to skate when we started dating he took me. We loved going and just really never took the time to go since we moved. When we lived in Ashburn we had a rink right down the road from where we lived but still never made the time to go. An opportunity came upon us this past Tuesday. This year our Light the Night thank you party took place in Reston. It was at McCormick and Schmick's, we ate dinner, then there was a small awards ceremony. After all was said and done the skating rink at The Town Center was all ours, closed to the public just for The Light the Night party guests.

We weren't sure at first if we were going to venture onto the ice. But we did. It was so much fun. I was a little nervous at first. It had been so long since we'd been. When I got my skates on and got on the ice it was like no time had passed at all. Not one year or twelve years. I didn't even fall once. It felt great being out there. It was just Joe and I, the kids were at home with Nana. It was like we were teenagers again, only in older bodies. My body was definitely feeling the workout it was getting. We had such a fun time, we have decided that we definitely need to go back and take the kids with us. We checked on the skates sizes and they go as small as seven, they are so tiny just perfect for Jenna.

Hope everyone else is having a great week. We've been quite busy, I have so many more pictures to share and I will soon. What about this weather? I am really ready for Spring now.

-----------Me on the rink-------------Group pic at dinner-Joe, Me, Debbie, Jackie, Mia, Cheyl and Nancy------

Potty Stamp, Mommy!

2009-02-03T13:44:00.004-05:00

Today was Jenna's first day back to school since she's been going pee pee on the potty. She was very excited about going to school this morning and getting to go potty at school. At pick up this afternoon Mrs. Denton said she was like a pro and did wonderful. In return she got her potty stamp, she was so happy to show it to me.

Fun with Friends

2009-02-01T23:56:00.011-05:00

Go Steelers!

We were so happy to see the Steelers win. It was a great game. We spent the evening watching the game, eating good food, and enjoying time with friends. The kids had a ball playing with their friends. They took a break at half time to watch the 3D commercials in their 3D glasses. It was so cute seeing them all lined up on the couch. Hope everyone had a fun and safe evening. Thanks again K and C!

My Growing Boy

2009-01-31T22:34:00.009-05:00

On Monday Jacob had his five year well check up. I knew that he had grown over the last year but I just I didn't realize how much. He now stands a tall 43 and 3/4 inches. That is the 51st percentile. Last year at his well check up he was exactly 40 inches tall. He also gained just over 4lbs he went from 38lbs to 42.4lbs. This is the 73rd percentile. I just can't get over how much he is growing and what a big boy he is becoming. He really is five now. Lately he's on this homework kick, which is very good. I just hope he always loves his homework like he does now. I bought him a little workbook at the dollar tree to help him practice his writing. He finished the book in less than one day. He started it and did not want to stop until he was finished with it. That's exactly what he did too. A few days this week he wanted to do nothing other than color his homework. Really it was just a coloring book we had bought him for Christmas. I've bought him another workbook from work this time and it's a pretty big one. It covers so much more in it and he cannot wait to start it. Like I said I just hope he continues to love doing his homework.

On another note we are also excited that he is almost 44 inches as this means there will be that many more rides he will be able to ride at WDW. When he was measured at the Dr's, that was with no shoes. Certainly with shoes and even if he doesn't grow from now until May he will definitely be 44 inches. I am sure he will do some more growing between now and May. There's a few rides that Daddy cannot wait to take him on, now that we know he's tall enough.

I know that I've said this many times before, but boy does time fly. I honestly don't know where the month of January went to. I can't believe tomorrow is the first day of February already.

One Week and Counting,

2009-01-30T11:24:00.008-05:00

My Super Star!

We are at just over a week of little Miss Jenna doing her business on the potty. I must be honest with everyone I was at a point where I was convinced she was never going to be ready. Especially by our WDW trip, it really isn't that big of a deal. She just wouldn't be able to participate in the "big girl" activities like Aloha Luau, Clarabelle's Moo Juice, Do-Si-Do with Snow White, Little Einsteins Adventure, Mouseketeers in Training, Nemo's Coral Reef Adventure, or Welcome to Wonderland just to name a few. These are some of the activities for three and four year old's that she will be able to participate in on the cruise section of our vacation. She will be less than one month from her third birthday so she will be able to take part in these activities only if she is potty trained. So you can understand why I was so worried. I think we can safely say we will be okay come May. What's even better is I know that she'll be able to be in the three year old class come next year for preschool, she has to be potty trained for that class too.

Last Thursday one of her teachers at pick up asked me if we were trying to potty train at home. I then told her we were trying but with absolutely no success. She then proceeded to tell me that Jenna sat on the toilet twice that day but no pee. She also told Jenna that if she goes pee pee on the potty she gets a special potty stamp. Jenna apparently was quite taken by this little bit of information. Joe and I had tried just about everything to try and get her to go. Later that afternoon when we got home from Jacob's therapy, she said she had to go potty and not in her Pull-Up. We went in to the bathroom and there rest is pretty much history. Since last Thursday we have had maybe two accidents. I think that's pretty darn good. We have went pee pee on the potty at a friend's house, Jacob's other school, the mall and Target. She is very good about telling us when she has to go. We've only pooped twice on the potty and this did take a little more time to start. She refuses to wear her Pull-ups anymore except for at night when we go to sleep. She wants to wear her princess panties, or sometimes it's her Dora panties. She tells us that she will not go in her panties because "Jasmine" (the princess on her panties) would not like it. It really is too funny how she is. Every morning we have woken up with a dry Pull-Up with the exception of Thursday morning as she was not feeling well.

Keep your fingers crossed for us that she continues to want to go on the potty. She cannot wait to go to school and go on the potty at school. It goes without saying we have been rather busy running back and forth to the bathroom, but it's a good busy.

We have been invaded by an Alien!

2009-01-22T09:38:00.008-05:00

This week has been space week for Jacob at preschool. Tuesday they learned about planets, Wednesday was spaceships and today is their fun space alien day. If they wanted to they could dress up as space aliens. Since we don't really know what space aliens look like they really had the freedom to dress as they wished. I found a template online for a mask and used that and then added our own little features. Jacob wanted to use every eyeball in the package so we did. Then Mommy worked on the outfit part of his costume. I think that I did a pretty good job since at most times I feel that I am not that creative. This was a fun thing for both Jacob and I. We both enjoyed working on his costume together. So here he is our little SPACE ALIEN........

As always he's getting the bad guys, which today happen to be Nana and Jenna.

This Day In History!

2009-01-20T12:30:00.008-05:00

Today we welcome a new president. Our 44th President of the United States. Jacob has amazed me yet again today. Getting in the car after picking him up from preschool he said to me "Mommy we need to go home and watch Barack Obama." What amazed me was how perfectly he said Barack Obama otherwise known as "Daddy's Guy." I can only hope for the best in what our new president brings. We cannot wait for change. Only time will tell.

Okay one more funny thing. Jacob is chanting "We want Barack Obama," this is because someone other than Barack is on the television right now. He cracks me up. Wait til Daddy here's all about this. Little things I will be able to remember about this day in history.

Totally Slacking....

2009-01-19T23:50:00.005-05:00

Okay so I officially feel like a complete slacker. I know that it's been a while since I'd posted but I just hadn't realized how long it had been. That was until I today I was reading a friend's blog and noticed our blog in the sidebar and it said my last post was two weeks ago. Two weeks ago, yuck. I am really not enjoying this cold weather. I am ready for Spring to be here. I will say I did however enjoy the little bit of snow we had today I wish there would have been more. I am okay with it being cold if there's snow to go along with it. The kids have been asking about snow for months now. Or it seems like it's been months.

I kind of feel like I have been in this funk. Still making my rounds for the most part reading every one else's blogs. Just having a hard time sitting down to write a post of my own. We have been fairly busy the last couple of weeks. Just lots of random things going on. Daddy's on a little guys trip. Him and a few of his friends from work headed up to Atlantic City for just today and will be home tomorrow (Tuesday) night.

Jacob and Jenna are both doing good. I think Jenna's got a bit of a cold. Other than that though she's good. Both growing like crazy and keeping me on my toes. Jacob's 5 year well check up is next Monday. I can't wait to see how much he's really grown. We keep track of his growth on one of our walls but to see last year to this year from the Dr. perspective is always fun. Then there's always the whole percentile thing. Hoping he's keeping up like he has been and is still going to be taller than both his Mommy and Daddy. At his last checkup the doc said he'd probably be between 5' 9" and 5'11" that's so much taller than his Mommy.

Enough rambling for now. I promise to update with some pictures shortly. Hope every one's enjoying this Winter of ours. I think I am also ready for spring to be here, because once it's here we are that much closer to our WDW trip. Only 117 Days left!! Woo Hoo!

Our December.....

2009-01-02T23:59:00.002-05:00

Just a quick montage to share our busy month with everyone. Hope everyone had a fun and safe holiday season. May you all have a wonderful 2009!

Make photo slide shows at www.OneTrueMedia.com

2009!

2009-01-01T00:00:00.001-05:00

Jacob Michael Fiocca is 5!

2008-12-25T15:03:00.009-05:00

At this moment 5 years ago, my baby boy was born. Jacob, I cannot believe you are five already. You have made Daddy and I so proud to be your parents. You are such a kind hearted, but strong willed little boy. Everyday is such and adventure with you. You are our protector, I love that you are always looking out for what's best for for Mommy, Daddy and your little sister Jenna. We love you Jacob.

Happy 5th Birthday Jacob Michael!!!!!

Love You Always,
Mommy, Daddy, and Jenna

XOXOXO

Christmas is Here.

2008-12-24T10:46:00.004-05:00

Merry Christmas!

Hope everyone has a wonderful Christmas. Be safe and have fun.

Enjoy your time with your families.

Much Love,

The Fiocca Family

Joe, Jamie, Jacob and Jenna

Catching Up!

2008-12-23T13:26:00.003-05:00

It feels like it has been so long since my last post. We have been very busy. Our computer is temporarily (hopefully) broken. Joe is in the process of trying to fix it. For now I am using his laptop. This means no pics, at least for now. The computer and laptop are connected so I usually just get the pics that way but for some reason the laptop did not receive the last little bit pics we uploaded to the computer.

One week ago Saturday (the 13th) we had Jacob's birthday party. It went pretty good considering we had 11 kids at our house. Not to much drama considering. Jacob had a great time and that's really what matters right? We also went to a friend's Christmas party that evening. There was some nice Mommy and Daddy time with other adults. The day before that on Friday we had our family pictures taken and we also visited with Santa. That also went really good. We ended up with some great pictures from both sittings.

This past week Jenna had here Christmas party on Tuesday and then we had Jacob's on Wednesday. Both were great parties. Jacob's could have been a lot worse though. Two of the party parents were no shows. Myself and another mom who were just there did our part to help as much as we could. All in all it was fun. Thursday was the kids last day of school and they had their Christmas Program that day also. It was really cute and I can't wait to share pictures.

I did a whole lot of baking this past week more than I have ever done. A good part of which I did into the wee hours of the night. I had to bake for Jenna's party, Daddy's party and then I baked some stuff for the girls at work, and then of course I had to have some for at home.

On Friday we left really early in the a.m. and headed up to New York for a very short trip. It snowed, hailed, sleeted, and all that good stuff most of the way up. The drive was a little longer because of the weather, but we still got there at a decent time. Spent all day Friday and most of the day Saturday there leaving the city in the early evening and getting home @ midnight again because of weather and traffic. We all had a great time even with the freezing cold weather. Cannot wait to share pictures from that either.

Jacob and Jenna have both had a bit of colds on and off also. Along with their colds has been a good amount of coughing. With this we ended up with some lovely throwing up episodes. My poor babies. But we seemed to be passed that hopefully, just a little leftover snot.

So there you have it our last week in half. I will share some pics just as soon as I can. Hope everyone else is having a fun, and safe holiday season. Christmas is just two short days away. Are you ready?

Still Here.

2008-12-05T20:58:00.005-05:00

I am still here. We've been kind of busy this past week. Joe's sister and her husband and our niece Alyssa, nephew John and Andy's son Andrew came to our house for Thanksgiving. We had a full house for Thanksgiving for the first time in I don't know how long. We had a great few days for their visit. The kids absolutely had the best time with all of our visitors. We hated to see them go.

As for the rest of this week I have been busy trying to get some Christmas shopping done. Just about done with the kids. Getting last minute things for Jacob's birthday party. I can' believe my baby is going to be 5 years old. I know I've said this before but man time does sure fly by. It seems like not that long ago I was pregnant with Jacob and here it is 5 years later. Tomorrow we are going to head down to The Dulles Town Center to see Santa and have our family picture taken. The kids are so excited this year they can't wait to tell Santa what they want. Keeps your fingers crossed for us that we get some decent pictures. Hope everyone is enjoying the Holiday Season.

Some random pictures from this past week........

Jenna eating cake batter------Jacob & Uncle Andy-----Jenna & John having a serious conversation

Alyssa & Jenna------Jacob & Aunt Michelle, hanging out at the mall

Helping Mommy decorate the Christmas tree

Being my two silly kids--Jacob mid air jumping on to the couch, Boys!

Thanksgiving!

2008-11-27T00:23:00.007-05:00

Happy Turkey Day!

We hope everyone has a wonderful Thanksgiving day. Please be safe if you are traveling. Enjoy your time with your loved ones. Eat lots of good food. Remember what today is all about. I am thankful for my healthy and happy family. I am also thankful that we get to spend today with family. We miss everyone who is not near us. Sending lots of love to all of you.

The Fiocca Family

Is It Really Over?

2008-11-21T22:11:00.008-05:00

Fall. I can't believe that it has came and went. It really went by way too fast this year. I know that it isn't officially over until December 20th. As the first official day of Winter is December 21st. I am not sure about how the weather has been around the rest of the state or the country for that matter but it sure has been cold here. We have been having flurries already. Last year we didn't see flurries this early. All three days this week when I went to pick up the kids it started flurrying. It's not even Thanksgiving yet. Now don't get me wrong I am actually enjoying the early winter weather. It's just a little weird. Not just two weeks ago we were out in the yard with the kids playing in the leaves. Yes it was a little cool but nothing like these last few days have been.

Well I really can't account too much for the last couple of days as I haven't stepped out of the house too much since yesterday afternoon. My wonderful sinus infection has come back in full force. I am now on my second round of antibiotics. I did not go to work on Thursday because my head felt like it was going to explode at any moment. Instead I stayed in bed most of the night as well of most of the day today. My head is feeling much better, not 100% but better. As a result of staying in bed most of the day I am now not tired when I should be. Go figure.

Enough about me, I would like to share some pics of the kids playing in the leaves in the yard from about two weeks ago. Also this week at preschool Jacob has been learning all about Indians and Thanksgiving. He made a "Indian" necklace, a Indian Headband and a noise maker all at school. One night while at home Nana and the kids also made an Indian Headband, they had quite a bit of fun. With pictures to prove it. I know I am a bit behind on sharing pictures but better late than never, right?

~My Little Indians~

In This Box

2008-11-17T14:59:00.003-05:00

On this box that Joe found on our porch sometime last week, was a shipping label with my name on it. It came from Branchburg, New Jersey. I was not expecting anything in the mail, I had not ordered anything online for sometime. Upon opening the box I discovered that I actually WON this stuff. Then after thinking about it for a bit I remembered entering some sort of online giveaway. I think it was on Lucky Magazine's website for Lucky Breaks Giveaways. I don't really try and win too many things cause I'm not really very lucky. Every once and a while I click on the link to Lucky Breaks on Kelly's Blog. Thanks Kelly! So here's what I won:

In the box from Aloe Creme Laboratories was a letter stating I was one of 136 lucky winners and the following products....

(2) AloSun Restorative Gel Creme

(2) AloSun AfterTan Original Tube

(1) AloSun Fragrance Free AfterTan

(2) AloSun Lemon Lights

(2) AloSun Citrus Soleil Shampoo

(2) AloSun Citrus Soleil Hair Mask

(1) AloSun Organic Body Oil

(2) AloSun Swimsuit Saver Shampoo

(2) AloSun Cooling Mist Spray

(1) Curederma Eye Correct

(1) Clearderma Cleanser

Retail Value: $154.00 While I cannot use most of these products at this time of the year, I am sure I will enjoy using them next year. I cannot wait.

I am currently having a small problem with my spacing on blogger. So if this post looks totally wacky I am sorry. Hope everyone had a great weekend. I am not really sure if I am ready for it to be this cold. They are calling for snow flurries, already? It's not even Thanksgiving yet. I definitely want more of a winter than we had last year that's for sure. Time will only tell.

Too Cute!

2008-11-13T23:39:00.007-05:00

First let me set the scene before I tell you about the cutest conversation I had with Jasmine. You remember her, the little girl my son can't stop talking about. Last week Jacob had another field trip this time we went to The Library, we walked from his preschool. It was so cute walking with all the kids. Such a talkative little bunch. After story time was over, we all headed back down the stairs to head back to school. We were walking out the door and this is when the following conversation took place.

Jacob: Mommy look there's Jasmine.

Mommy: Yes, Jacob I see her.

Mommy: Hi Jasmine!

Jasmine: Hi! (pauses) Do you know what?

Mommy: What Jasmine?

Jasmine: I like your son. ( With the cutest little shy smile on her face)

Mommy: Well you know what Jasmine, Jacob likes you too.

Jasmine: He's so nice to me. He plays with me and he chases me on the playground. (Again with a huge smile on her face.)

Mommy: Bye, Jasmine!

Then it was time for us to join the rest of his class to start our walk back. How terribly cute was that? Of course this made Jacob so very happy. I have been wanting to share this story since this conversation took place. We've just been a little busy this past week.

Thank you everyone for all of your kind words. We appreciate them more than you know.

More stories and some pics from the past week to come soon. I have lots of catching up to do. Hope everyone has a great weekend.

Our Butterfly....

2008-11-11T23:57:00.011-05:00

Grandma (Great Grandma) Ann Fiocca, we truly miss you and love you. You were and will always be such an important person in our lives. You taught us so much about life. We will always treasure each moment that we spent with you and will always remember you and what you taught us. Every time one of us sees a butterfly we will always think of you.

We Love You!

Halloween Party Fun!

2008-11-04T13:50:00.001-05:00

Jenna's Party Tuesday 10/28

Craft time-----------------------Game time--------In line to wash her hands.

Snack time, yummy mini cupcakes-----Play time the girls, were running around Jenna

Jacob's Party Thursday 10/30

Jacob getting ready to go on our parade/walk-----Jacob's class

Story time with Mrs. Christine Barr : )----Snack time-----Play time

Did You? I Did!

2008-11-04T10:43:00.006-05:00

Today on my way home from dropping the kids off at preschool I stopped and voted. There are places all over the country that are giving away free stuff to those who voted. You just have to show off your "I Voted" sticker. Starbucks is giving away free coffee, however I am not a coffee drinker. Also Krispy Kreme is giving away free star shaped doughnuts. Ben & Jerry's scoop shops are giving away a free scoop of ice cream. These are just a few of the finds I found. In some places around the country Chick-Fil-A is giving out free sandwiches. None that are too close to us. Go ahead and get you free stuff. Have a great day!

Halloween Fun!

2008-10-31T23:40:00.009-04:00

Happy Halloween!

Getting ready to crave our pumpkins--My two cuties--Not sure about these pumpkin guts

The wonderful job Daddy did on our yard

Our annual neighborhood group picture

Fun with Friends

My two boys--Daddy and his princess--Family Pic

Nana and Darth Vader--Our Pretty Little Kitty--All set to go Trick or Treating

Hope everyone had a fun and safe day.

Great Giveaway!

2008-10-30T14:27:00.004-04:00

Look over here, at Frugal Mommy of 2 Girls she has this great giveaway. Such a fun gift for those of you who are Mommy's to girls. Wouldn't this be a fun Christmas present. I know Jenna would surely love it if I won this giveaway. She loves pushing her babies all around. This stroller is also very similar to our double stroller. She would get a kick out of that. Wish me luck and anyone else interested in winning this stroller head on over to Frugal Mommy of 2 girls to find out how to be entered. Be sure to also go checkout all the other fun toys at The Joovy website.

Is That My Kids???

2008-10-23T23:45:00.006-04:00

On Friday Joe took the kids to a birthday party at Fun Expedition. One of the girls at work, her little one was turning five and so she invited Jacob and Jenna. While Megan was opening presents this is what they did........

My Jacob and Jenna the two who while at home do hug each other. But usually any hug lasting more than 6 seconds ends with both of them on the ground. One of them inevitably knocks the other one over, for whatever reason. While at this party they felt the need to just stand next to each other and hug. Don't get me wrong I really do think it's one of the cutest things in the world just a little unusual for them.

After a while though Joe did say they finally warmed up and started acting like their normal selves, some what and were running around a bit with the other kids. Overall they did have a good time. Running around playing games like golf and mini bowling, air hockey and some others. Jenna really enjoyed the cake. That was the first thing she told me about when they got home, it was a Dora cake. She shared her cake with Daddy and as usual Jacob did not have any.

I am still feeling tired a lot. Still trying to get to bed earlier. Some nights I do actually get in bed at a decent time. I really can't believe it's October 23rd. Halloween is a week from tomorrow. Next week is going to be another busy week. Tuesday I (we) have Jenna's Halloween Party, then Thursday is Jacob's Halloween Party and parade, and of course Halloween is then Friday. I will be busy on Monday and Wednesday preparing what I have to bring to each party as I am a party parent for both of their parties. I know, I actually signed myself up for all this busyness.

Besides all that I've left the best news for last. Our motor on our heating unit downstairs is broke. The good news is the part is still under warranty. At least it decided to break now and not in the dead of Winter. I just have to try and look on the bright side it could have really been a lot more than it is going to cost us. It's still going to be pretty expensive. We are shopping around, the first quote was twice as much as the second one we got. Regardless, it's Thursday and our part not being order til Friday it won't be fixed until early next week. This morning it was really cold downstairs. I think we will be spending a lot of time upstairs for the next few days. Hopefully it won't rain like they're calling for on Saturday. I'd like to spend sometime outside with the kids. Hope everyone has a great weekend.

Another Quick Weekend........

2008-10-17T13:23:00.007-04:00

I think that my lack of sleep is finally catching up with me. I have been so tired lately. I have sat down at least four times to write this post. I am getting more sleep than some people ever get but it's just not enough for me. I am trying to go to bed earlier than I have been and it seems to be helping a little. I guess if I give it a little more time I am sure I'll adjust eventually.

I feel like I have been rather busy this past week. But for the life of me I cannot remember all that I (we) did. However I do remember what we did last weekend......

Last Friday after Joe got home we all got packed into the car and headed for Williamsburg. Just a day trip really. Joe got our hotel for super cheap on Priceline and it was actually quite a nice hotel considering the price we paid. We got there, had dinner, went to our hotel, slept, got up the next morning and headed to Busch Gardens Europe. A friend of Joe's from work had some extra tickets that he was not going to get to use by the years end and gave them to us for us to use. It was really quite nice, four tickets. Jenna did not require a ticket, so Nana was able to go with us. The weather turned out to be really nice, not too cool and not too hot. In the evening it cooled down a bit so we had to put pants on but that was okay cause I came prepared. The kids had a really good time. Joe and I took Jacob on a couple of the bigger rides that Jenna wasn't able to go on. He loved all the scary stuff they had going on. We didn't take him in any of the mazes or anything that scary. He loved all the witches, wolves and goblins walking around the park scaring people. Around 9:00p.m. we finally had to hit the road as I had to go to work the next morning. Everyone was pretty much out before we left the parking lot. Here's some pictures from our fun day.............

His First Field Trip

2008-10-09T23:59:00.009-04:00

Today Jacob and I went on his first field trip. We went to Hill High Farm. We got to go on a hay ride out to the pumpkin patch. We both got to pick a pumpkin and then we headed over to the apple trees where Jacob picked two apples one for each of us. After our hay ride back the class had their snack, and then they got to run around. He played with some corn in the castle silo and then he went in the hay maze several times. Also I must mention his "girlfriend's" class was also there. I got to meet Jasmine, she a very cute little girl. He also had a great time chasing her around in the maze. I took several pictures in which most of them Jacob did not want to look at me or smile at me for that matter. I think he had to many other things on his mind. So, oh well not a lot of smiles in the pictures but he still had a really good time and so did I. I enjoyed watching him run around and play with his friends. It was also nice to meet some of the moms in his class and chat with those who I already knew. We could not have asked for better weather. Thank goodness it did not rain, the sun was shinning (I think that was also part of the reason Jacob wouldn't look at me, He was facing the sun quite a bit) and the sky was clear and blue. Onto the pictures..........

Saying Hi to Mommy!---------------Checking out a calf----------------Our hay ride out the pumpkin patch

His pumpkin-------------Picking our apples----------Here they are Mommy!

Jacob and Kavon-----------------Kavon, Jacob & Mrs. Riley

Playing in the corn with Jasmine (she's the one in green)

Jacob in the maze----Jenna kissing her apple Jacob got her, she loved it.

The Past Week!

2008-10-07T23:31:00.012-04:00

Where have we been. Lots has been going on. I guess I should start with last Thursday morning our anniversary. While taking the kids to school that morning a nice police officer thought she would start my morning out right by giving me a ticket. I kid you not and I wasn't even two miles from the house. I was in the neighborhood right next to ours almost to Greenwood and that's where she pulled me over. Get this my ticket was for FAILURE TO STOP. Are you kidding me? I know all of those stop signs as I drive that way at least once a day three days out of the week. I totally stopped but she said otherwise. I was so bummed but really tried not to get too down about it. Beside Joe was not going to let me get upset about it. He said it's our anniversary and that's the last thing you need to get upset over, so I didn't. It stills bothers me now though. My fine is only $30.00 but the fees are $61.00, $91.00 total, it sucks. I hate that I have to pay the county $91.00 when I know that I stopped but I really don't think it's worth fighting over it's her word against mine.

The rest of the day Thursday turned out to be a good day. We didn't get to do exactly what we had planned but it still worked out and we were together and that's all that matters. The first chance we get though Joe has promised me that we will get our dinner at The Melting Pot. I can't wait.

Saturday morning Joe went to South Riding and went golfing with a couple of friends from work. He's never really been a golfer, something new that he wants to give a try. With a little practice I think he will be really good at it and it'll be something that he enjoys.

The kids and I just hung out at the house and then in the afternoon we packed up for our trip into Reston for our walk. The kids were really excited because they got to see their friends Gavin and Mia who we don't get to see enough. The weather was great we couldn't have asked for better weather. No jackets were required this year just long sleeves. And they seemed like a little too much at one point during our walk. It went rather fast this year. We finished faster than any other year or at least it seemed that way. Nancy had shirts made again this year for our team, and this year Jenna even had one. It was really too cute, not exactly the same but we got what would fit on her small shirt. I think we probably finished third (for fundraising) in the friends and family team category. Here's some pictures from our evening on Saturday........

With the Capitals Mascot---------------With The Chick Fil A little cow

My little cutie!-----------------Gavin- our inspiration

Playing games before our walk-------------------Mommy and Jenna, she's flying high

Getting started Daddy, Jacob and Jenna--------Jacob hanging out we're almost done

Jacob hanging out with Mia, he couldn't get enough of her--------------------Mommy and Jacob!

Jacob and Jenna enjoying one of Mommy's cookies.

Here we are at Tuesday already. Is it just me or does it seem like time is really flying by these last couple of weeks? Is Halloween just 24 days away? Before we know it Christmas will be here.

Happy Anniversary Babe!

2008-10-02T00:38:00.002-04:00

Here we are nine years later. I Love you more today than the day I married you. You are truly an amazing man. I am so lucky to have you. I love the life you have given me. I Love you more than I know how to say. I cherish everyday that we have together and look forward to the next. We have so much to be thankful for and I am so thankful that you came into my life when you did. You are not only a wonderful husband but an amazing Daddy. Thank you for the making the last fifteen years of my life such wonderful ones. I am looking forward to the many adventures that our future holds. I cannot wait to grow old with you. I love you babe.

A look back in time...............

Photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Just a Reminder.......

2008-10-01T00:53:00.005-04:00

It's not too late to donate for my walk on Saturday. Just go to my fundraising page here. You can make your donation anonymous. Keep your fingers crossed for good weather on Saturday. Joe and the kids are walking with us and both the kids are gonna have their own cute little shirts this year. I can hardly wait. Hope everyone is having a good week.

P.S. Is it really October 1st?

How was your week?

2008-09-27T15:12:00.009-04:00

What a week it has been. Well really, only two bad days but that's enough to count as "the week" in my book. On Tuesday morning we got in the car to take the kids to preschool and my check tire pressure indicator was on. No big deal I thought, this light used to come on all the time in my pilot when the weather got cooler. After I picked up the kids at preschool I went to Martin's to see if my tire did in fact need air. After checking my manual to see what my tire pressure is supposed to be, 33 PSI in front, and 35 PSI in back I got out of the car to put air in the needed tire and check the others. When I went to put air in the front passenger's tire (this is the one that was on my indicator) it was all the way down to 19PSI. I couldn't believe how low it was. We went home and then a short five hours later I got in van again to go to work and what do you know the stupid indicator was on again. I told Joe about this and he reminded me that I could look on my dash and in would tell me my exact PSI of each tire. It was back down to 23PSI. I went to work hoping that a friend's husband in tire shop could look at it and then fix it for me. No such luck. I had a huge SCREW in my tire, in a spot no less that could not be repaired. This means a whole new tire. I spent all of my morning Wednesday at Costco so they could replace my not even 6 month old tire and $168.54 later I was able to leave. I still cannot believe how much one of my tires was. So that is how my week has gone. I know it's not the worst thing that could have happened but that and this gloomy weather has put me in such a blah mood. Don't get me wrong I Love Fall, I really do love the cooler weather. I 'd like it much if rain weren't included and if it wasn't so gloomy all day long. This weather gives me no motivation to do anything, all I want to do is nothing.

Today we were supposed to go to D.C to The Annual National Book Fair. Joe has worked this for three years now. It's supposed to be really cool, but since they were calling for rain we (me and the kids) decided not to go. Joe still had to go for work of course but it's good for him, he'll get 12 hours of comp time for the day. I talked to him just a little bit ago and he said it hasn't rained much since this morning. So instead of going today the kids and I are just hanging out at home. I cleaned out the pantry, it really was overdue. I put some chili in the Crock pot for dinner tonight, for when Daddy gets home of course. I have also done quite a bit of laundry, but that's about it. Oh and I also managed to watch the season premiere of ER, in which I cried almost the whole hour. That was fun, I really hate that I am so emotional about my shows. Joe laughs at me sometimes cause he just knows when I am gonna break down. Sometimes it helps cause I tend to start laughing at him laughing at me cause it is a little silly, especially some of things I cry at. Other than crying I really enjoyed the episode and I really am gonna hate to see it go at the end of this season since this is it's last.

Hope everyone is having a nice relaxing weekend.

Coming up this week......Our Anniversary (which means a Date Night, if everything goes as planned) and Our annual Light the Night Walk. And oh my gosh it's almost October already. Have you started your Christmas shopping yet? Until next time....

Pumpkin Picking

2008-09-22T23:43:00.016-04:00

On Saturday we took the kids to Marker Miller Orchards here in Winchester. I have to say it was a little hotter than the forecast called for but still a beautiful day. We went to go check out the pumpkins. In years past every time we go to a pumpkin patch it's always in October and much too late to get any good pumpkins. We do not get all of our pumpkins there just because they are rather expensive most of the time. We usually end up buying the rest of our pumpkins for carving at Wal-Mart, usually for a lot less money for fairly good size pumpkins. However I don't know how that will work out this year. Hopefully soon my Wal-Mart will put the pumpkins on sale, as of now they are $4.98. The pumpkins at the patch were .49 a lb. Now if I am doing my math correctly I would have to get a pumpkin of at least 10 lbs or larger at Wal-Mart for this to be a deal. They didn't used to be $4.98 a pumpkin they used to be like $3.98 or less. It really was a better deal at Wal-Mart always. The pumpkin patch no matter which one we went to was always more expensive, it was always a better deal at Wal-Mart. Sorry, getting back to our fun day on Saturday.

The kids really loved it. They had a lot more pumpkins for us to choose from going this early in the year. Jacob just wanted to keep walking and walking further into the patch. He really was too cute, although we had to tell him to slow down and wait for us several times. I don't really think he really understood the whole pumpkin patch thing until this year. After both Jacob and Jenna picked out a pumpkin we headed back to the farmhouse. They had a little cow train there and it was free on Saturday. Both of them loved it. Jenna especially, that is what she talked about the rest of the day on Saturday and most of the day Sunday..."Cow Train, me went on the cow train." I think we will have to take them back there again before it gets too cold just so they can go on the cow train again. After the cow train they went and played on the many different kid toys on the playground. Then it was about time for lunch so we packed up and came home for lunch. I think next time we go we will bring a packed lunch and have it there as many other families were doing. They have quite a few picnic tables there. Lots and lots of people were picking apples, like bags and bags of apples. Maybe we will do that next time too. Hopefully next year both kids will be eating apples. Jacob's not much of an apple eater, Jenna however does like them if she's in the mood. We had a really good and fun time and free time. The only thing we had to pay for was our pumpkins. The two that the kids picked out we only $7.00 together so not too bad. We did manage to get a few pictures also while we were there.

Jacob SO excited about seeing the pumpkins-----Jenna taking a sniff of a pumpkin flower

My little cheese ball------------Mommy and Jacob hanging out-----------Little Miss Sunshine

Looking for THE pumpkin------He found it, a little bit of a walk from Mommy and Daddy------Getting closer

Ut ,Oh almost dropped it--------And finally he made it back to Mommy and Daddy----Getting ready for our ride

Just chillin' on the cows---------The rides almost over---------Playground time

Slide fun---------I see you!------------Putting on her breaks, the one before this one she flew off the bottom : )

Look at me Mommy!------------------CHEESE!-------------Jenna just hanging out.

Change is Good!

2008-09-21T22:35:00.005-04:00

So, I did it. I got my hair cut not a trim but cut. I haven't had this much cut since probably 2001. I know such a long time. As you all know I am very attached to my hair. Very particular about how my hair is cut, who cuts it, you get the point. I had only been thinking about cutting it for a short time. I knew the longer I thought about it I wouldn't do it, and it needed to be done. Thursday I made my appointment to have it done on Friday, no time to cancel. Many people, friends and co workers included did not think I would go through with it. Everyone thought I was going to return with just another trim. Hopefully you all do notice the difference. It's at least 5 inches. I cannot say an exact number because my guy refused to talk numbers with me. I just know there was a lot of my hair on the floor. My guy told me just to tell him how short I wanted it. I did not want it shorter than my shoulders as I have never had it that short. I knew though that I had to get a decent amount cut as my ends were rather dry. My hair usually does most of it's growing or it seems like it does, during the Fall and Winter, so we will see how much grows back. I will say thus far I am very happy with my cut. It's also probably because I went back to my guy and not somewhere new. Hope everyone had a great weekend, I will post pics from the weekend tomorrow.

What do you think of our new layout for Fall? Colors okay? I'm not sure just yet.

Her Name is Jasmine.......

2008-09-17T23:45:00.006-04:00

We are now at our third week of preschool. Starting last week Jacob has been talking about this girl at school.

Last week when he got in the car on Tuesday he said to me "Mommy I met a new girl today, she is my friend." The next day Wednesday when he got in the car again he said "Mommy, I saw my girlfriend today." "She's so pretty." After having a short conversation both days with Jacob about this girl I learned a few things about her. She is not in his class, she is in the Ducky class, she has the same color hair as Mommy. But still no name. He could not remember her name, either day. He remembered that she had a blue shirt with strawberries on it. Last Thursday when he got in the car he was so happy. He said to me "Mommy I saw me girlfriend again today, Do you know what we did?" I said "no, what did you do?" He then proceed to tell me that him and this girl played hiya(?). You know his favorite game- good guy, bad guy. Total heaven for my Jacob. She was the bad guy and he was the good guy. Apparently they are some times when they are on the playground at the same time. They also see each other when it's time to go home and everyone is waiting to be picked up.

Fast forward to this week....On Tuesday, he gets in the car to tell me he did not see his girlfriend that day. Maybe she's sick he says, he was worried, genuinely worried. It was so cute but a little sad too. Now to today. When he was getting in the car I asked Mrs. Riley what class was the ducky class. She told me that it was another four year old class that was next door and went the same days as her class. Then she asked why? I then told her that there is a girl in that class that Jacob likes. I asked Jacob if she was at school today and he said no she wasn't. When I said there was someone Jacob liked in that class she asked me who? I told her that's our little problem Jacob can't remember her name. I then told her that she hasn't been at school the last two days and we know she has my color hair. She smiled and then said "Jasmine!" That is Jasmine and she's on Vacation her family went to Disney World. Then she said Jacob has very good taste because Jasmine is a very pretty girl. So there you have it my baby boy's first crush.

Such a long explanation as usual, but would you guys really expect anything less from me? : ) I think this little crush is really cute but I am also a little sad, too. Just one more sign that my baby is growing up. Who knows what is in store for me (us)? Fun Times!

Beach Pictures!

2008-09-15T13:22:00.004-04:00

It has literally taken me just about two weeks to finally get our beach pictures together. We have been really busy these last two weeks. With the kids starting preschool and adjusting to our new schedules, really new schedules. Just getting up is a task for us. Our kids are like me not early risers. They are also not fast eaters (?), they need a good amount of time to eat each meal. If they don't get up at decent time we are rush, rush, rushing to get out the door and to preschool on time.

Back to our beach pictures, I was going to do a cool little slide show on OTM but apparently they no longer offer slide shows. So I was stuck with using Slide, I like their site but I don't like not being able to add your own songs. You are stuck with their selections which isn't a very wide selection. Anyways, we had a great time at the beach. It was a very short trip, we left early Monday (Labor Day) and came home late Tuesday since Jacob had school on Wednesday. Short, but really fun and really needed for the end of the Summer.

Also in the last two weeks I have been to Urgent Care twice and my own Dr. once. The first time I went UC it was on Sunday before we left for the beach. I had a UTI, boy was that fun. The second time I went was this past Tuesday. I went because I found an unusual bump/lump on my head. You know in the back of your head where you can feel your skull, where those bumps are? Well one of my bumps on the left side of my head was much larger than the one on the other side. It turns out it was just a swollen Lymph Node. Just plenty of fluids and keep an eye on it, is what the UC doc said. When I followed up with my regular Dr. She said the same thing except if it continues to bother me to come back and she'll do an ultrasound. Since Thursday it seems that it has went down a little more, and I'm not getting as many headaches. That's a plus, so hopefully in a few more days it'll be gone completely. But like I said busy, I've been wanting to post but just couldn't find any time.

This morning we had a play date. It had been a while and with school and everything else going on it was just finding a convenient time for us to get together. It was nice to see the girls and catch up. Everyone seems to be adjusting to the school schedule and having fun at school. Hope everyone had a great weekend.

Fun at The Park

2008-09-10T10:40:00.004-04:00

Today after dropping Jacob off at Preschool, Jenna and I decided to go to the park. We don't really get a lot of just Mommy and Jenna time. Now that Jacob's in Preschool three days and she goes only two days we will have every Wednesday for just us girls. She had a lot of fun, even though the bottoms of some of the equipment was a little wet still from yesterday's rain. There wasn't really anyone else there most of the time we were there. It was nice and quiet, too. It wasn't as cool as I expected it to be. When the sun came out it actually was quite hot with jeans on. The high is only supposed to be 68 for today, I'm not so sure that I believe that. I have some more random pictures from the week that I'll post later. Hope everyone is having a good week.

This is my little dancer. We had just got in the car. The song Crash by Gwen Stefani had just come on. It was at the lyrics "put your hands up." It was just too cute to not get a pic.

Jenna's First Day of Preschool

2008-09-04T23:57:00.010-04:00

Heading out the door, My Little Princess

Today my baby had her first day of preschool. She did very good this morning. She was all ready to go to school. She didn't even want to eat her breakfast this morning, she just wanted to go to school. It was all about going to school and getting to play with Jacob (not her brother but her friend Jacob). She was so excited. When we got there we dropped Jacob off at his classroom first and then went to her classroom. As soon as the teacher opened the door she just walked right in, no goodbye, no hug and no kiss for Mommy. I, of course called her back to me and asked for the kiss goodbye, she gave me my kiss and then went back into the classroom. When I picked them both up this afternoon they both had a good day. Jenna told me that she played with Jacob and some of the other boys and girls in her class. She also painted a picture with some fish on it. She definitely is liking the school thing, she didn't miss me. I am not surprised. With all the baby dolls and things to play with in the classroom who needs Mommy. It was so cute to see both Jacob and Jenna walking out together at the end of the day. The cutest thing ever though was what Jacob told me. He said that he didn't see Jenna all day while at school. But right before I came someone brought Jenna to him. He hugged her and then he kissed her again and again and then when Mommy came he had to stop. Jacob missed his little sister. I guess you had to be there. When he said he hugged her and kissed her there were also sound effects in the story. Jenna's teacher or the aide brings her down to Jacob's classroom right before pick up time so that I only have one pick up time as opposed to two times. It's very nice how they work with parents that have more than one child there at the school. Both Jacob and Jenna can't wait to go back to school next week.

They're off to school

Walking to her classroom

In front of her classroom door

Look at that little happy face

(in the classroom)

Pick up time

Jacob's First Day of Preschool

2008-09-03T23:35:00.006-04:00

Getting ready to head out the door, look at his happy little face!

Jacob had his first day of Preschool today. Jenna has her first day tomorrow. His first day went relatively smooth, with the exception of us having every slow moving vehicle in front of us on the way to school this morning. We still managed to make it to school at a decent time, several kids were still not in Jacob's class when we dropped him off. I did much better than I thought I was going to do. We'll see tomorrow though, it will be my first day by myself with no kids. I know I am gonna miss them. Jenna missed Jacob today, she knew he was at school. She kept asking if we could go get him. It really was too cute. From what we could get out of Jacob he enjoyed school. He tried to tell us everything he did, and he can't wait to go back tomorrow. He met some new kids but can't remember their names just yet. He did however remember what colors they were wearing, like the blue kid. He, he! I thought that was cute that he associated people with what colors they were wearing. He got to play a little bit with his friend who is also our neighbor. Mrs. Riley said he is a sweetheart. I was glad to hear that he was good. I have always worried about that will he listen to the teacher? Cause he picks and chooses when he'll listen to me. I am glad he has chosen to listen to the teacher. Hopefully he will continue to listen to her. We really stressed this at home that he has to listen to his teacher, that he needs to be good in class, that he cannot play good guys shoot all the bad guys with the kids in school like he does at home with Daddy. I just hope that he always likes school as much as he does now, if not more. He has really made us proud. He's not a baby anymore, he really is turning into a big boy. Okay enough of my rambling, onto a couple more pictures from today.

Going into his classroom

Mrs. Riley and Jacob, the end of his first day.

4 Times.....

2008-08-30T22:07:00.006-04:00

That's how many times Jenna went pee on the potty today. Before she went pee on the potty those four times she went poop on the potty. And yes, between the poop and the first pee on the potty we did have a couple of accidents. It's a work in progress. We know this. I am just very happy that she's ready to give it a try. She wants to sit on the potty a whole lot, like all the time. We get off the potty and five minutes later she says she has to go again. Every time she went on the potty Mommy, Daddy and Jacob all did the potty dance. Yippee, Jenna! She was so happy when we did the dance. Just one more sign that my baby is becoming a big girl. Today I also painted her toenails and then she had to have her fingernails painted too. She looks so adorable, like such a little lady. This is the first time we've done this. She absolutely loves them, she just keeps looking at them. She just looks at them and says "Mommy painted." I know I've said this so many times before but they really do grow up too fast. Time really does fly by.

Meet the Teachers

2008-08-27T00:25:00.004-04:00

On their way into school

Today went amazingly well. First we met Jacob's teacher Mrs. Riley. We were really excited that Jacob got her as his teacher. As I said before she came with great recommendation from friend's. She's been teaching at BS Preschool for well over twenty years. She seems like she really loves her job. I am very happy that she's Jacob's teacher and I think that he's really going to like preschool. I also think that he's going to love her class. He walked right into the classroom today and just did his thing. He got a little goodie bag and then Jacob and I got to do a craft together. We traced his hand and then I cut it out and then he got to put it into the envelope with all his other classmates hands. Every day Mrs. Riley will pick a hand out of the envelope and which ever hand she picks that student gets to be the leader for the day. He will have one day every 6 weeks or so that he will have to bring the snack for the day and that day will be his show and tell day. One other thing I am really happy about is when I told Mrs. R that Jacob had therapy for his delayed speech, she was very supportive. She said just to let her know what he was working on in speech and she would work it into Jacob's time in the classroom. This really makes me happy because I want so much for him to be ready for Kindergarten next year. I know that he's not the only one with delayed speech and that there will be others that will have the same issues as him if not worse. I just want him to like school and I don't want him to be discouraged because of his speech. I know that Mrs. Clay is going to do everything she can to have him ready for Kindergarten even if it means going to two days a week instead of the one we've been doing. Oh, the worries of being a parent. I know I will have so many more days full of worry. Regardless of my worry he's still going to grow up and he's going to make us proud I just know it.

Making Mommy pizza............................Testing out "HIS" chair

Now onto to my Jenna. Jenna's teacher is Mrs. McGeachy, we really like her. Jenna had no problems making herself at home in her classroom. She also took to the teacher's aide Mrs. Denton very well. At one point while I was talking to Mrs. G I looked over and Jenna and she was sitting in Mrs. Denton's lap and she was reading her a book. Jenna is going to be doing a lot of different stuff in her class. They will have music and crafts. She will also have one day that she will also bring snacks for the class. Jacob and Jenna are both already talking about what they want to bring on their snack day. Too cute. I have signed myself up to be a party parent at two of each of the kid's classroom parties. I think Jenna's really going to like interacting with all these other kids her age. Also she will have one familiar face in her class, one of her friend's will be in it. Jacob will also have a friend in his class. So they won't be totally off on their own, not knowing anyone. That also puts me at ease a little bit. In just over a week both of my babies will be at preschool. No really, where does the time go? It seems like just yesterday I was giving birth to my babies.

See her purple fish?

Back on Her Own.....

2008-08-26T00:20:00.009-04:00

Again. Jenna, my baby is really proving that she's just not that anymore. Most of you know that she's completely refused to sleep in her crib and if we did put her in it well, she tries to jump out. She gets her leg up and over the rail and well there you go. She hasn't been in her crib in months. Instead she's been in our room in Jacob's fire engine toddler bed. We finally came up with a way to get her back in her bedroom in her own big girl bed. Over the weekend Joe took off the railing on one side of her crib so, there we have it her very own big girl bed. We bought her Dora bedding because that's what she decided she wanted. Now we are on night number three of her being in her own room in her own bed. Yeah, Mommy is so excited. Hopefully it'll stick. She's been coming in our room around 8 a.m. which isn't too bad for me. In the next couple of weeks we are all, including me going to have to get on a better sleeping and waking schedule. We will be all getting up before 8 and no more sleeping in for Mommy either. Ugh... I guess I'll just have to get used to, cause it's not like it's gonna be any different next year when Jacob's in Kindergarten. Did I really just say that? I can't believe how quickly time is going by. It really seems like Summer just began and here we are getting ready to go to school now. I talked to Jacob's therapist today and he will start back with his speech next Thursday. Thursday's will be busy days for us. Preschool, lunch and then to therapy. Wow, I really got off on a tangent there. So, later on today cause it is Tuesday already, we will be meeting Jacob and Jenna's teachers. Can't wait to share, they are both really excited about meeting their teacher's and going to school. Hope everyone had a great weekend and is enjoying what's left of Summer.

A few pics of Miss Jenna in her "New" bed

Treehouse Fun!

2008-08-19T15:01:00.005-04:00

On Saturday Nana, the kids and I ventured down to The Tyson's Corner Mall. Daddy was playing poker that evening, so we decided to head out after lunch. I needed to get a couple of things from one of my favorite stores, Sephora. The kids also enjoy going to this mall as they like to play at the play area there, it's like a tree house. We closed the mall and then headed for home. Found a few more things for the fall for the kids. Here they are having fun and being their little crazy selves.

Taking turns going down the tree slide.

Jacob's all about jumping and climbing-----Jenna loves the Ladybugs

Now, together!

On Sunday the kids, Daddy and Nana had a busy fun day. Jacob and Nana went to church and then came home and got Jenna and Daddy. Then they went to the Greek Festival that another church was hosting. When they came home they went across the street and played in the moon bounce and on the slip and slide. They had a really good time playing with their friends. I came home and we had dinner and then we played a little baseball. Then it was finally bath time and bed time. Fun Summer times..... too bad it's almost over and the kids will be starting school very soon. As a matter of fact, Jacob starts two weeks from tomorrow. Yikes!

A Birthday Party

2008-08-15T23:17:00.005-04:00

Today we went to a friend's house for a birthday party. The kids had a really great time just running around and playing with all of the other kids. We ate lunch, had some cake and ice cream, and then watched Kavon open his presents. The rest of the day we just hung out at the house. I managed to sneak in a nap for myself after Daddy came home from work. I had kind of a rough night with Jenna last night. She woke up at 1:50a.m. and decided she needed to cry and stay awake for a good while. This morning she said that her belly hurt her last night, but it's better now. Anyways this little rendezvous that we had at 2:00 a.m left me a little tired today. She really has been sleeping good and not waking in the middle of the night for quite some time now. Now that I had this nap I am not that tired now and am finding it hard to go to sleep, so here I am blogging.... Anyway here are few of the pictures I managed to get today while at the BD party.

The gang getting ready for lunch-----------------------Kavon getting ready to blow out his candles

Jenna cruising around-----------------Jacob sticking Spiderman's mask on him

On another fun note, Jacob got a letter from his preschool teacher. We can't wait to go meet her in about a week and a half for preschool orientation. Summer's almost over, where did the time go?

Batter Up!

2008-08-12T23:24:00.006-04:00

A few weeks ago I picked up The ESPN Better Batter Baseball toy for Jacob at our Target here in town. This is normally a $40 toy, but for some reason Target had it on clearance for $19.98. I know, half price how could I pass that up. He was totally into trying the whole baseball thing out. He had never played before. With the visit to Indiana and then John coming to our house, Jacob had his fair share of baseball talk with John around. John LOVES baseball, he's played since he was Jacob's age if not younger. Getting back to the game, Jacob was really excited about us buying him this game to give baseball a try. He did great and he loves it. He's been asking everyday since Daddy set it up for him last week, to play it. This videos only like 40 seconds long or so. His last hit on the video is a pretty good one, if you ask me. He's just too funny when he plays, he's very serious. Below I am going to add a couple of pictures that Daddy took. Just take a look at how serious his face is. Take notice at that little vein in his neck, how it sticks out cause he's giving all of his might. Hopefully next year we'll get to sign him up for some sort of Baseball here in town. Can't wait, he's really got quite a swing going. I just hope he continues to like it as he really hasn't taken to any one sport yet like he has this one.

Just too Cute.........

2008-08-11T23:25:00.010-04:00

Just look at Daddy and Jenna. They both melt my heart, they are just too cute. My little girl really isn't looking so little anymore. There are some days I just look at her and think my gosh she looks like she's three already. Her hair is finally long enough that I can actually get it into one ponytail in the back. She really looks like a big girl with her hair like that. In the pic above her hair is in a pony. I have to use like three barrettes in the back to help those hair's stay in place, but it still is just so cute. They were just hanging out in the computer room together so I just had to get a pic of them together. Jenna is really funny about having her picture taken lately. It's like she has to be in the mood, and if she is then and only then she will look at you to take the picture. She really does have a stubborn streak in her, I wonder where she gets it from? He, he! Well here's a couple more pics of my two cuties ....

Jenna giving Daddy her eyes----------More kisses

Take a look at that CHEESE......

Just a little side view of her o' so cute ponytail.

Just Relax.....

2008-08-08T22:25:00.006-04:00

Today I went to Mane Attraction Salon and Spa to use my gift certificate from my birthday. It was even better than I imagined it would be. My day started at 11:00 AM. When I got there, I had to fill out a little questionnaire about my body and skin needs. This was for my massage and facial. My first treatment was my full body massage, it was wonderful. I have only ever had one other massage and it was a stone massage. I had this on our cruise we went on for our 5 year anniversary. Three years was way too long to wait to have another massage. I told Joe this evening when I got home, anytime he feels like he wants to treat me again I am all up for it. This truly was such a wonderful gift. Back to today, after my massage I had my facial. I have never had a facial before....... (I know.) I will definitely be going back for more of these, it was so relaxing. After my facial it was off to get my hands and toes done. First my manicure and then they did my pedicure. I always enjoy pedicures, but who doesn't enjoy someone else doing their toes for them? Lastly I was to have a shampoo and style done. I decided it was probably time for a trim, so I also had my hair trimmed at this time. I left there at about 5:00PM. It was a long day. It was well worth the wait, and the length of the day. All of the people there were really nice to me. It was also really nice inside the salon/spa, I had never been in there before. I think that I will probably go back the next time I need a trim and give someone else a try. I liked the woman I saw, I just didn't get that click there if ya know what I mean. Like I've said before, I am very particular about my hair and I just didn't feel like she understood what I was saying about my hair and how important it is to me. I know it probably sounds a little weird but everyone has something they're particular about and for me it's my hair. One bad cut job and I am done for a good bit of time. Once I went 2 years without one single trip to a salon, really bad experience that time. I am also thinking I'd like to try there again because it's so close to the house, and the prices are pretty reasonable, AND I'd love to not have to drive to Sterling for a hair trim. So, we will see hopefully the next time I need a trim I will like the next person more. Any of you out there that are in this area definitely need to have your husbands talk to mine so you too can have a day for you, like I did. Happy Friday! Hope everyone enjoys the beautiful weather we're supposed to have this weekend.

Business as Usual

2008-08-06T23:38:00.011-04:00

Daddy left early this morning to go on a short trip up to Boston. He has a few meetings he has to go to. He will be back home with us tomorrow night. While he's there he managed to fit in a trip to a Cupcake place for me. Lulu's also just happened to be across the street from another bakery he wanted to go to. The last time Joe and I were in Boston was in 2003. I was pregnant with Jacob and we found a really good place to get really good Italian cookies. He went across the street to Mike's, I believe that's what it's called and picked us up some cookies. I can't wait for him to get home. Not just cause he's bringing us goodies, but because we miss him. He did manage to send me this picture of inside Lulu's Bakery from earlier today. It was taken with his cell phone camera, that's why it's a little fuzzy.

While Daddy was in meetings today, Nana and I and the kids headed to the Hagerstown Outlet Mall. I was in need of some good deals for some fall clothes for the kids. We also needed to find some shoes for the kids. We didn't do too bad, I found two pairs of shoes for Jenna, one at the Stride Right Outlet and one at Children's Place. I found one pair for Jacob also at the Stride Right Outlet, they all turned out to be reasonably good prices. We made out the best by far at The Children's Place Outlet. I got Jacob three shirts and Jenna three shirts. Most of which were 50% off the already reduced price. My best deal though was the jeans. They had girls jeans on sale for $2.99. I bought Jenna five pairs of jeans, off those shelves. Three pairs for the coming months and two pairs in 3T for hopefully next year. Did I also mention that I had a coupon for 15% off my entire purchase. The $2.99 jeans actually ended up being $2.55 a pair before tax. I don't know about you, but I have never purchased jeans for that cheap. Needless to say I was very happy with the purchases that I made today at CP. Those of you who have little ones should definitely go check it out, it's worth the drive. The Gap Kids Outlet also had a good deal of stuff on sale, no $2.99 jeans but also some good stuff. I also managed to find myself two new shirts for work for when it gets a little cooler. We didn't get to look everywhere we wanted to, cause I had to get home to go to work, but we still did really well for the amount of time we spent there, at the mall.

Just Hanging Out

2008-08-05T14:24:00.007-04:00

Little Mommy!

Not really much to report. Had our busy weekend with the Wedding and then Birthday Party. Totally forgot my camera for the wedding. The bride, Jessica, looked very beautiful. We came home and changed, and then it was off to the birthday party down the street. The kids had a really good time except Jacob didn't really want to get out of the water. And, well, Jenna didn't really want to get in it. On Friday I have an appointment at the salon/spa where Joe bought my gift certificate for my birthday. I have finally managed to find time to get to have my day for me. Yeah! I am really excited and can hardly wait for Friday to get here. Nana's gonna watch the kids for me so I can go early in the day, that way I won't have to wait for Daddy to come home.

Jenna is really becoming quite the "Mommy" to her "Babies." There's usually at least one baby with us at every meal, usually sitting in her booster seat with her making sure that the baby eats too. She also likes to have at least one to go to sleep with her. And just the other day we had to take one of the babies with us in the car when we went bye-bye. Although she does seem to have a small temper problem, too. If her babies don't move exactly the way she wants them to she gets very upset. Joe and I find it just a little funny at times, it's hard not to laugh when she's so angry. Fun Times! Here's some pics from the last few days........................................

Hanging out @ the birthday party

Yummy chocolate cake-------------Daddy gave me marshmallows

Hanging out in the kitchen with her babies, Jacob sneaks in...

Give Me Some Peanuts and.......

2008-08-01T20:47:00.018-04:00

We had a really good time yesterday. It was a long day, but fun day. The kids and I left the house just after 2pm. We stopped at my friend Nancy's house so that we could follow each other to the Metro station. It was a good thing that we all went together because I don't know that I would have been able to do this all on my own, especially without a stroller. Yes, I went without a stroller cause I didn't think a stroller would have really worked once we got to the stadium. After riding one train and transferring to the green line we finally made it to Nationals Stadium. That's where Daddy met us, he stayed at work for a little longer than usual and then came to the stadium.

The stadium is absolutely beautiful. I have to say it is by far the best baseball stadium I have ever been to. Not that I have been to a lot but I have been to a few. There was really cool playground for the kids to play at, we didn't go there this time. There was also a ton of different places to eat, Five Guys had the longest line by far. The prices were, well ball park prices. As soon as we got there we went up to the second level where the Kickoff party was. We ate dinner, while watching a cool little slide show, then there was a presentation with some fundraising ideas and then a raffle and then we were off to the game. The Nationals didn't so good at least while we were there. We left at the 7th inning and it was 7 to 2 and already 9:30p.m. By the time we got back on the crazy busy metro and in the car and home it was just after Midnight. Like I said a long day, needless to say Daddy took the day off today. Oh and Nana came home today. The kids are excited to have her back home with us. Tomorrow is going to be another busy day.

Jacob and Gavin waiting for Metro------Now they're on the Metro

Jenna, Mommy and Mia on the Metro

The view from the rooftop------The Center Field Entrance

Our team on the big screen, 2007 team pic

Nat's practicing while we were eating dinner--------------The score board from our seats

Jacob with his big foam hand he had to have--------Daddy and Jacob watching the game

Mommy and Jenna hanging out during the game, take a look at that cheese

Getting Closer...

2008-07-31T12:49:00.010-04:00

It's getting so much more real. My babies are going to preschool in the fall. Both of their teachers called me today. We will be going to meet them the last week in August, so the kids can see their classrooms, and get acquainted with the teacher and the school. I am really happy because Jacob's teacher came with good recommendations, I requested this specific teacher and we got her. Not only is she a good teacher, Jacob will have one of his friends, who's also a neighbor in his class. His mom is who recommended this teacher, Thanks again Christine. Jenna will also have one of her friends in her class and well as far as the teacher goes we will see. There's only one two year old class on the days she's going. The kids are getting more excited. They both have their back packs now, Jenna, Dora of course and Jacob decided on Transformers. In just a little over a month they will start preschool. Oh boy!

We are getting ready to leave now to go to D.C. for our Kickoff Party/Baseball game. I think the Nats are playing the Phillies. Keep your fingers crossed for us for no rain. The last baseball game we attempted got rained out. This will be Jenna's first baseball game and Jacob's 2nd. Hope every one's having a great Thursday. Yeah tomorrow's Friday! The Weekend!

What We DON'T Miss!

2008-07-29T23:23:00.012-04:00

When I came home tonight Joe informed that there was an earthquake in Southern California, today. Just over the mountain from my parents. It actually happened this morning but I was unaware of it as I did not watch the news today. Joe called my parents and they are okay, but definitely felt the quake. In this article from the LA Times it talks about how this was the largest in the area since the magnitude 5.9 Whittier Narrows quake in 1987 in Rosemead. And how this one is a reminder of how there is still the possibility of "a big one." This scares me. This is what we (Joe and I) don't miss. We don't miss being woken up in the middle of the night by the sound of the earth shaking and the ground underneath you moving. It's not a very fun thing to experience. It has been a very long time since I have felt a earthquake, probably since 1999 or 1998 when we moved to Virginia.

This map shows you just how close the epicenter was to my parents house. The epicenter was in Chino Hills, where the blue balloon is. My parents live to the South East of there, in Lake Elsinore. Their town is almost at the very bottom right of the map.

Now while you're looking at the map look almost directly to the left of Chino Hills for a city called Whitter. That is the city where the 1987 Whitter Narrows (duh, Jamie) earthquake was centered. As I mentioned it above. I am only mentioning it again because of all the earthquakes that I felt in the 22 years that I lived in Cali, that is the one that I remember most.

View Larger Map

As I said earlier it took place in 1987, I was only 10 years old. But I remember this day so distinctly. I did have to look up the exact date which was October 1st. I was in the fifth grade and I was at school at it was early in the morning. I don't think we had been at school for very long yet that morning. I remember feeling the ground moving, the screams of everyone in the classroom, and hiding under my desk. We spent most of the day outside of our classroom. We had just moved a few months earlier from Whitter to Lake Elsinore. I think it was a God send that we moved when we did because where we did live was hit pretty hard. Our old house was right in the middle of the epicenter. In Lake Elsinore we were about 50 minutes from the epicenter. Had we still been in Whitter, things would have been much different for my family. My school had a ton of damaged sections that were unrecognizable. Our little downtown was completely destroyed. Our old house even had some pretty good damage done to it. Again Thank God, we moved when we did. October 1st, 1987 is a day I will never forget. If you haven't ever felt an earthquake you're lucky. Just another reason on our list of reasons why it was okay to leave California. Earthquakes are something we don't miss at all. But I (we) sure do miss you, Mom and Dad, and of course the rest of our family and friends that are still there. I hope that the USGS is wrong this time about another "big one" coming. We are glad that every one is okay.

Self Portraits

2008-07-28T23:51:00.005-04:00

All taken by Mr. Jacob Fiocca himself. In the last one he is growling. Always have to add that bad guy in there somewhere.

It seems that he's growing up so quickly especially lately. Where does time go?

2008-07-26T21:58:00.012-04:00

Friday Night at The Family Drive-In-----------------------------------------------------------

Daddy and Jenna dancing before the movie starts----Mommy & Jenna just hanging out

Daddy and Jacob having a serious conversation----Hey where did Daddy and Jacob go?

Here's Daddy and Jacob coming back from the playground.

Doesn't he look like such a BIG boy?

Saturday-July 26th Grand Opening of our new Lowe's and Target-----------------------------

Jenna getting a feel for a real firetruck as opposed to the toddler bed shaped like a firetruck we have.

Now Jacob's turn, He loves it!

Lots of bouncing to be done--------He loved this fighting ring, but no one for him to joust with.

It was hilarious watching him with that big thing--------Now for the slide, He decided to jump from the top this was his landing.

Now inside the new Lowe's--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Now it's building time. Jacob built a tether ball thing---Mommy helped Jenna build a Dune Buggy car.

Now back into our race car cart. They looked so cute in their little aprons.

Back home for a little fun in the water-----------------------------------------------------------

We've had a pretty busy but fun two days. I am sad that tomorrow is Sunday and I have to start my work week yet again. At the last minute on Friday we were driving to Target and Joe said I wonder what playing at the Drive-In. We called and to our surprise they said Wall-E was starting it's run there. Jacob really wanted to see this movie so we decided why not. Were glad we did because we all thoroughly enjoyed this movie. It was a really cute movie. Was definitely different than what I was expecting. Anyone that was thinking of seeing it should go see it.

This morning Joe suggested that we go check out our new Lowe's as it so much more convenient than the other Lowe's, plus he needed to get a couple of things. When we got there we were surprised to find that Target was open and there was a little festivities going on. They flyer we got in the mail said Target was opening on Sunday July 27th. Jacob had a ball playing around outside just for a little bit cause it was so hot outside. Joe and I spun the wheel at the booth for the new smoothie place that's opening in the center and we both won a free smoothie. We then went inside Lowe's where the kids participated in their little workshop. Jacob really enjoyed that. They have a different one every other Saturday for kids. I think Joe might have to Jacob back to that.

We have a somewhat busy week ahead of us. Nana might be coming home at the end of this week. On Thursday we're going to The Light the Night Kickoff party in D.C. Saturday we have a wedding and that afternoon we have a birthday party, for one of the kids' friend's. That's about it for now. Hope every one had a great weekend so far and enjoy your Sunday. Think of me while I am at work. Yuck! (He,he!)

More Cupcakes!

2008-07-25T12:41:00.007-04:00

Yesterday, Joe decided he would stop by Hello Cupcakes on the way home for me as on Thursdays they have a few flavors I was interested in. When he arrived there we (I was on the phone) discovered that Hello Cupcakes is apparently not open yet. It says on their website opening Summer 2008, and I know that somewhere on the web I read it was open. Anyway it's not. So Joe decided to venture over to Baked and Wired as we were both now in the mood for some good cupcakes. Now let me first say that Baked and Wired does not just sell cupcakes, they sell a variety of baked goods. They are more expensive than Georgetown Cupcakes, but the cupcakes are also much larger than GT. They are also a much better cupcake. Not only are they bigger but the cake was definitely more moist. The frosting was not cream cheese at least on the cupcakes I tried. When Joe got there he said that the woman behind the counter said they usually have more flavors but had sold out of a lot of them for that day. He got two of their strawberry cupcakes, a carrot cake cupcake and three chocolate cupcakes. I tried a bite of both the carrot cake cupcake and the strawberry cupcake. The carrot cake one was pretty good. I'm not really a carrot cake person but Joe enjoyed it. The strawberry one was pretty good. I enjoyed the cake it was white with strawberries in it. The frosting was a strawberry butter creme. It was a little sweet, so I could only eat so much of it. The chocolate cupcake was also really good and the frosting was a vanilla butter creme. Jenna really enjoyed this frosting and she even ate a little bit of cake, too. I have one more chocolate cupcake to eat and I think I'll have it after lunch today. Have a great Friday and enjoy the weekend.

Is it just us?

2008-07-23T23:46:00.012-04:00

Okay so I've always has a small obsession with cupcakes. I really do love them. But on my daily blog rounds lately I have been checking out a lot of Melis B's links to cupcake blogs. This has really had me in the mood for some good cupcakes. Now don't get me wrong I think I am pretty good at making cupcakes, but I am just not in the mood to bake. I would rather have someone else do the baking. In my travels at The Cupcake takes the Cake blog they have a rather extensive list of Cupcakeries around the U.S. I have been checking out several in the D.C area, just cause well maybe they're convenient enough for Joe to stop at on his way home. And so he did just that for me on Tuesday. He stopped at Georgetown Cupcake, he brought home 6 cupcakes. We had a Chocolate & Vanilla, Vanilla2, Lava Fudge, Coconut, and 2 of the Red Velvets as this is their signature cupcake. Today on CTC blog they have a snippet of this article, this food critic liked these GT cupcakes? Joe and I did not. The cake was dry and well if you like cream cheese frosting you might like them. All of the cupcakes had cream cheese frosting. Don't get me wrong they looked really yummy but looks aren't everything right? I tried a bite of all of them with the exception of the coconut one. I don't really care for coconut so I opted not to try it. Of all of the cupcakes the vanilla2 was the best. Joe and I agreed that it was the best out of all of them. And well saying it was the best isn't really saying much. I did not eat any of that frosting because at that point I couldn't take any more of the frosting.

Before going to that bakery we had discussed going to a different one, Hello Cupcakes! We decided to try GT first since it was closer to Joe's work and he read lots of good reviews about it. Now in reading the comments after the article I linked above it seems a lot of people feel the same way about GT that Joe and I do. With that being said I am now really ready to try Hello Cupcakes. They look like they have lots of yummy flavors and a few people did say they we're good. This shop did just open not that long ago, so we will see. I am also looking forward to trying Baked and Wired they too got lots of good reviews. In the comments of the above article lots of people said that they were much better than GT cupcakes. So we will see just where I can get my hubby to go to next for me for my cupcake craziness. I will then let you know what I think of those cupcakes. Because you know that you all want to know : ) he,he! About a month or so ago we did try some cupcakes from a bakery in Maryland that a friend brought to us as she lives near it. Those were some pretty good cupcakes but unfortunately I can't remember the name of the bakery right now. I am sorry if I am making anyone hungry because I know every time I am reading about cupcakes it makes me hungry. Like now just writing about them and it's midnight, I am getting hungry.

Here's a picture of the cupcakes sorry about the lighting. Unlike myself Jenna did enjoy the frosting. And my Jacob of course wanted nothing to do with them : ) Hopefully our next venture to a new place will turn out to be better with better cupcakes.

Not Much to Report

2008-07-21T11:04:00.006-04:00

Not a whole lot going on at The Fiocca household. On Friday we had a play date, which we hadn't had on in a while. It was fun the kids all got along for the most part. Sometimes I think I look more forward to the play dates than the kids do. It's really great getting to spend that time with friends. Having adult conversations about whatever we feel like talking about at that time. And well the kids, at this last play date it seemed like they were having a perfectly good time playing good guy, bad guy if they weren't jumping on the moon bounce thingy.

Saturday was a little different for us. We went to a friend's house for their daughter Kaiani's third birthday. What was so different? Girls! Everywhere was girls. Most of you know when we go to play date Jenna is the only girl. At this party there was all girls and just Jacob and one other boy. It was so different. Screaming like you can't believe. What am I in for? The oldest girl was 5 and 1/2 with the youngest being 16 months old. In total 7 girls, all I can say is WOW! It really was a lot of fun though. It took Jenna a little while to adjust to having girls around. Jacob however managed to adjust, just fine. He played with girls for a little while. That is until he started talking to Kaiani's Uncle Ben. Jacob had a ball with Ben just doing boy things. I think that Ben actually enjoyed himself too. As he only has two nieces at this point, so having a boy around was different for him too. All in all every one had a great day. The kids and I came home and Daddy went to another friends to play poker.

Also on Friday we finally got Jenna's two year pictures taken. I had a great coupon for the Picture People and it was about to expire. One free 8x10 or 11x13 and 25% off all other portraits. She took a lot of good pics and it really is hard to decide. We also managed to get one good one of the two of them together. As it's been a while since we've had a picture taken of the two of them. I am going to share a few of those pics but you'll have to excuse the Zazzle watermark on the pics. We don't have a scanner so I can't really share that way. This is directly from the PP website so you know why they have the watermark. I will share pics from the rest of our week at a later time as I'd like to share just these for now. Hope every one had a great weekend. Enjoy!

Light the Night Walk 2008

2008-07-15T23:52:00.014-04:00

Most of you are quite aware that I have been raising money and participating in The Light the Night Walk since 2001. I am on a small team. It consists of my very dear friend Nancy, her daughter Jackie, Another friend Cheryl, Myself (Jacob and Jenna have also been walking since they came into this world), sometimes our spouses, Mia and last but most certainly not least Gavin the reason why we started walking. I won't go to much into detail about our history as I don't won't to repeat myself too much as I explain our history on my LTN website.

Back in 2001 Gavin was 2 and 1/2 years old and was diagnosed with Leukemia-Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia (ALL). Gavin is Nancy's grandson and Jackie's son. When researching The Society we came across The Light the Night Walk. At that point we decided that this was a cause that we needed to help. Every year since 2001 we have been walking and raising money for this cause. The money that we raise goes directly to The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, National Capital Area. It goes towards research and it also goes to patients and their families.

Every year we try our hardest to raise more money than the previous year. Most of what we raise comes from different Wal-Mart's as most of our team is Wal-Mart associates and we also do other fundraisers like Barbeque's and bake sales. Thus far we have been very successful at beating our previous years fundraising efforts. This year our goal is $20,000. So far we have raised about $11,000. My individual goal is to raise $1000 on my own. For the last few years they have offered a free website to each walker. This is the first year I am trying it out, as I am a little more experienced with the whole website thing. On my website you can donate money to The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, Light the Night walk and by doing so through my website my team will get credit for each of those dollars raised. Please do not feel like you have to donate just because you're reading this post. And if you do feel like donating, don't think you have to donate a wad of money every little bit helps even $1.00 makes a difference.

*I forgot to add this. For those of you who would like to donate but do not feel safe donating via the web. You can always mail me a check made out to The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. In the memo line put Team G-Force. That way our team still gets the credit. If you'd like just send me an email and I'll give you my address.

Before I go on and I know you're probably wondering. Gavin is now in full remission and is a thriving 9 year old. Thank God for that. You all may or may not know someone that has been effected by Leukemia or Lymphoma. Gavin is most certainly not the only little guy I know that was affected by this disease but he is the reason why Team G-Force was started.

And for My Light the Night website, I am really excited about this. I have posted some pictures from past walks on the website. Please at least take a look and let me know what you think. I also would like to take this moment to Thank Everyone for continuing to support me.

One last thing the walk info- Our team walks at the Reston Walk. There are many walks sites in our area. The Reston walk takes place on Saturday October 4th at begins at The Reston Town Center. The start time is still to be announced. Thanks Again for taking the time to listen and read about Our Team and our cause.

Don't Go....

2008-07-14T23:53:00.005-04:00

Mommy/Mama. That's what I have been hearing for the past few weeks. Every night when I am getting ready to go to work or just the mention of me going to work. Just about every evening when I head upstairs to change for work Jenna follows me. As I get in my work clothes she says "Mommy no go work." Tonight however it was just a little different and quite cute actually. She said "Mama no go work, go tomorrow." It was to cute. I guess maybe the kids are going through a little phase where they just don't want me to leave. It really makes me sad but at the same time it makes me happy. Only because it lets me know that they do actually notice that I am gone in the evenings. They are always having so much fun with Daddy when I am about to walk out the door, I sometimes wonder if they even notice I am gone besides the whole goodbye hug and kiss. Jacob on the other hand is a little more dramatic shall I say. I am pretty sure he's the one that started this phase, if it is a phase and Jenna has decided to follow. Some nights I find him holding onto my legs begging "Don't go!" And in the morning when we wake up he tells me "Momma go to work and me miss her." Today though he read me the cutest letter. We have these little plastic letters from on of our Fisher Price toys. Quite often I am given mail for me to read. When Jacob usually reads me my letter's they say:
To Momma,
I love Momma
Love,
Jacob
However today it was just a little more detailed.
To Momma,
When Momma go to work I miss her. I don't like it when Momma go to work. Me sad when Momma go to work. I love Momma.
Love,
Jacob

He's such my little cutie. He amazes me everyday. Especially with his talking. He loves to tell you stories now. Last year we were lucky if he put three words together. When he's in one of his story telling moods Joe and I just look at each other in amazement at the amount of words that come out of his mouth. Thank goodness for Mrs. Clay, that's his speech therapist, we love her. Jacob really loves her too and my gosh she loves him too. Also a lot of practicing and his homework. He just loves his homework. Hopefully he will continue to love his homework throughout school. Okay, I know off on a tangent again.

It's the things like them telling them that they miss me and don't want me to leave that make me feel like a special Mommy. How do your kids make you feel special?

Summer Fun with Friends

2008-07-11T23:47:00.008-04:00

Something we always love to do in the Summer is go to the Drive-in. There's not really many around anymore so Joe and I were so excited when we moved to Winchester to find that there's one right down the road in the next city. When Joe and I were dating and still lived Cali we went to the drive-in a lot but then we had to drive 45 minutes to it. Getting back to today sorry! This evening we went to the drive-in and saw Kung Fu Panda, but we didn't just go as a family this time. This time we went with friends who also happen to be our neighbors. We have been talking about going together for the past two Summers and we finally did it. It was really fun, the movie was good and the company was good. The kids had a great time both before and during the movie. Jenna is about the same at the drive-in as she is at the movie theater. Doesn't really sit for too long, constantly up, down, over here, over there and doesn't really know where she wants to be. Still fun though, just have to keep a constant eye on her. A couple of times she ventured in to the front of the van and decided to hop into her seat and buckle herself in. She then of course freaked when she couldn't get out so Mommy had to come to the rescue. Even with my little wanderer, I am still looking forward to doing it again. And now for some pics from our outing this evening.

Jacob sliding-----------Jenna hanging out on the zebra------Jacob, too!

Jenna and Jacob together------Jacob, Jenna, and Jacob waiting in line for the slide-------Now swinging 2gether

The Gang swinging again-------------Waiting for the movie to start