A Moment with Maddie

2011-04-25T09:40:00.000-05:00

Another busy week has gone by. Where does the time go? We seem to have our days filled up with playing outside (when it isn't raining), blowing bubbles, taking trips to the store and dancing. Mike and I had a busy week last week, which meant that Maddie had some quality time with her relatives. She had a grand time playing at Janna and Jeff's on Thursday with Carson, Caden and 'the girls next door'. Mom and Tom came over on Saturday to let Mike and I have some much needed couple time. We went to dinner and then headed downtown to watch Mary Poppins. It was a great evening.

Mike is on Spring Break this coming week and we don't have any plans....which is a nice thing! I appreciate having the extra set of ahnds around the house and hopefully we will just spend some time together and maybe get this house in order! However, I am told that it may never be in order now that we have kids!

Our Easter fun that started last weekend continued this week. Maddie had a great time playing with her friend Marley this Friday and having a little 'mini' Easter Egg Hunt in the house. Saturday we had a visit from Grandpa Joe who brought over a new playhouse for outside and then we had lunch at Steak and Shake. Nanna and Papaw came over that evening and had a grand time spoiling Maddie as well.

Steak and Shake. Yeah for free kids meals on the weekend!

Sunday was a busy church day for us. I sang at the contemporary service at church and Mike and I sang at the traditional service as well. Maddie was a trouper. She got a little tired once the service started and had a few tears in the nursey, but did a great job. After church we headed home to enjoy a relaxing afternoon of family and more egg hunting. Mom and Tom as well as Mike's Dad and brother came over to spend some time with us and enjoy some great food. It was a great way to spend Easter Sunday and reminded us just how blessed we are to have the amazing people that we have in our lives.

Exploring the sacutary while Mommy and Daddy warmed up Sunday morning.

Checking out the fun things the Easter Bunny brought.

Hunting Eggs at the house

After a long weekend both Mommy and Maddie were ready for bed.

Helping Hand

2011-04-19T14:45:00.000-05:00

Maddie is such a big help with her little cousin Caden. Here I caught a little video of Maddie keeping him occupied while I got his cereal ready this morning.

While they are only 10 months apart in age, Maddie thinks that she is so much bigger and is 'momma's little helper'. I have to admit, when caring for 3 little ones under the age of 2 it is sometimes nice to have an extra pair of hands. Even if those hands are 19 months old.

Easter Fun

2011-04-18T13:28:00.000-05:00

We have officially started our Easter season at the Porretta household. We are so excited to get to hunt eggs this year with Maddie and for her to kind of understand what is going with the whole Easter story. This past weekend we went to Dad and Gwen's for our annual egg hunt. As always, it was chilly. But, at least this year it wasn't raining. Maddie had a grand time picking up the eggs and finding money inside of them. Carson and JD were great about letting Maddie pick some up, even though I secretly think they wanted them all to themselves.

Maddie and Carson getting ready to go.

Finding some eggs under the rocks at Grandpa Joe's.

The whole gang and the Easter Bunny.

Momma and Maddie

Finding treats inside the eggs are the most fun

Look at my egg Mom!!!

This weekend were have our church Easter egg hunt and possibly the Westerville 5K bunny hop hunt. (if I get my rear in gear and sign up for the race). Easter Sunday Mom and Tom as well as Mike's Dad and brother are headed to our house after church for dinner and hopefully some egg hunting here. We wrap things up the week after Easter at Mom and Tom's with all the grand kids hunting for eggs and hopefully us getting to use the new fire pit! Did someone say smores??? I'll do my best to post more pictures as the weeks progress.

Finding time.

2011-04-09T12:45:00.000-05:00

I have been REALLY bad about posting pictures and updates from our family. Things seem to have been non-stop for us since the beginning of the year. I was in Gahanna Community Theater's production of Guys and Dolls, playing Miss Sarah Brown. It was great to be back on the stage again and to have a creative musical outlet! (plus I will admit is was nice to talk people who had a larger vocabulary then 'ehhh' or a regular basis).

As soon as my show got over, things kicked into gear for Mike. DeSales's musical was in March and then Mike's brass band (COBB) got into their contest/performance season. We still have a few busy weeks ahead with solo and ensemble (I am getting to accompany some of Mike's students which has given me another reason to keep up on my musical skills), we are involved in the Easter worship at church, DeSales spring band trip in the beginning of March, Jr. High Large Group contest and then I am headed to Alabama for Robbie's graduation.

Whew.....maybe things will slow down a little later then I thought. However, through all of this there is always one constant blessing that we can turn to and that is our little Miss Maddie. What a BIG girl she is turning into. It seems like just yesterday we were coming home from the hospital with her. Now she is running, jumping, talking up a storm (even though sometimes we can't figure out what the heck she is saying) and LOVING life. When our lives get to be a bit overwhelming and we are beyond stressed it seems like Maddie is always there to put things back in perspective for us. She is such a happy little girl .......(most of the time). She sings and dances and laughs every single day. She is so special to Mike and I and we thank God for her every single day.

Here are just a few random pictures of the past 4 months. I PROMISE I will try to get more up here on a regular basis. The goal is at least once a week.....maybe more.

Playing the in snow....in our wagon.

First big girl hair cut.

Mommy's little piano player. Maddie loves playing the piano....with all her friends.

Maddie has her Mommy's obsession with soft serve frozen yogurt. Won't eat chocolate like Daddy....only vanilla. (thats my girl)

We have lots of fun making and decorating cookies at Valentine's day with our BFF Marley.

Playing with cousin Caden is lots of fun too...........wearing no pants is also fun!

Penny horse rides at Meijer are the best. We can't wait until the weather gets nicer out so we can go see and ride the real ponies at Grandpa Joe's.

Even though the weather has been chilly in Feb and March, we take advantage of the sunny days. We bundle up and love to take wagon rides.

Sometimes its too cold out or rainy and we have our own wagon rides inside,

Maddie with her purse, 'posing' for the camera.

Eating cookies like a BIG girl after Daddy's musical, Cinderella. Maddie came dressed for the part.

Visiting the zoo is really fun with our cousin Caden. We really liked seeing the new elephant and the sleeping tigers. We even sang them a lullaby to help them go to sleep.

Maddie has enjoyed some special time with all her Grandparents. We are so blessed to have them in our lives and to help us raise our wonderful little girl.

Again, we love to cook and bake with our friends. Maddie has developed quite a taste for my cake icing. She calls it yogurt and always asks for 'mooor'. If only it was yogurt Maddie........

Now that the weather is FINALLY getting warmer we are enjoying spending time out in the back yard and on our new patio. We can't wait to see what adventures and fun the next few months bring.

More fall fun

2010-11-01T22:08:00.000-05:00

Here are a few pictures from Otterbein's homecoming and our trip to the apple orchard with Janna, Jeff, Carson and Caden.

Daddy and Maddie headed to the parade.

Hanging out with Carson an playing with the beads the sorority girls were throwing out.

Ah.....how cute do I look?

At Lynd's apple orchard and pumpkin patch. Maddie would walk to the end of the earth, as long as Carson was there holding her hand.

All the little pumpkins. We'll see how big they get next year at this time. The only way we could get Carson to get his picture taken was to let him take a picture of me taking a picture of him!

Playing corn hole while we wait for Baby Caden to finish his lunch.

Uncle Jeff......you are too silly.

Maddie found her first pumpkin. However someone forgot to tell her that you can't pick up something that is literally 1/2 of your weight........but she tried.

Trying to find the perfect pumpkin is easier when you have friends along to help.

Headed back to the car with Mommy.

Two tired little ones waiting for moms and dads to load up the car.

The first of many family photos at the pumpkin patch.

A tired little girl crashed on the way home.

Halloween 2010

2010-10-31T22:37:00.000-05:00

What fun we had this year! Maddie had her first official trick or treat night. We just went to 2 houses in the subdivision and spent the rest of our evening passing out candy at the house. Maddie did a great job. She loved putting the treats into the kid's bags. However, she did not like any army costume or zombie. But who can blame her?

Here is our little skunk getting ready to pass out the treats.....or just swiping some for herself.

Practicing with Uncle Dom.

Family picture before the fun begins.

Maddie helping pass out candy to her possible boyfriend in 15 years.

Going back to get more supplies for the troops.

Maddie in her 'other' costume at the Cleveland Zoo.....more pics to come.

It's been a while

2010-10-25T13:14:00.000-05:00

Well it's been a while since we have posted. Time just doesn't seem to be on our side. We have had a busy and wonderful fall. I'm going to try to get as many of the pictures that we have up here so that you can see what we have been up to, but I'm going to warn you it may take a while. I have found that while I LOVE staying home with Maddie, at the end of the night once she goes to bed I just want to sit and relax for a few minutes. That means catching up with Mike, watching a TV show or two and just unwinding from the day. Sometimes I get over to the computer and other times it's the last thing on my mind. So....I'll do my best to get everyone caught up on our adventures, it jsut might take me a few days.

We were able to head back to the Coshocton County Fair this year. We actually went two days. Once with Mike and then Maddie and I went back during the week. We had a great time. It was nice to catch up with family and friends when we went on the weekend and to eat some delicous fair food. But we had an equally great time on Thursday getting to take Maddie through the barns with out the crowds and the drizzle we had on the weekend....the bees we could have done with out.

Here are a few of the pictures from the fair, both days. I'll try to get a few more of our family ones on later.

Maddie riding the tractor.

Maddie on a tractor more her size.

Going for a ride on the Merry Go Round. (Minus her shoe) Madison LOVED the horse and would smile and giggle as it went up and down. No fear of rides for this little one.

Maddie getting to ride on a REAL pony. Thanks to Papa Joe and cousin JD for letting us play with Tucker.

A trip to the fari wouldn't be complete without a visit to the gourd barn. A highlight it always the giant pumpkins. This one was the perfect size for a toddler chair.

A year in review

2010-09-24T13:43:00.000-05:00

Where has the year gone? It is a hard to believe that over a year ago little Miss Maddie made her arrival into the world. This past year has been filled with ups and down, highs and lows but most of all amazing memories and adventures that I hope we don't soon forget. Our computer is filled with snapshots of the past year....all divided up over each month. Here are just a few of our Maddie Memories from the past year.

Maddie and Daddy at the hospital....only a few hours old. You forget how tiny they are.

Sleeping soundly during our first few weeks home......resting up for all the months to come I guess.

Our little pumpkin in October. Almost 2 months old and such a peanut. It's hard to believe that she barely fits in her car seat anymore.

Thanksgiving time. 3 months old and holding her self up and wanting to crawl.

The best Christmas present of the year. Love them big eyes.

At the end of the month of December at Maddie's baptism at Church of the Master. We were blessed to have our whole family there with us.

Month 4....our first snowfall. Yes Mike actually is the one feeding her the snow.

Mommy's little shopper. 5th months old. Notice we still are sporting the bib due to massive reflux issues.

The weather has changed and Miss Smiley is out to play. Month 6 was lots of fun.

Month 7 is crawling/cruising and getting into everything.

Month 8 we went and got professional pictures taken. Such a little ham for the camera. At this point we was walking. The photographer kept telling us to have her 'sit' here and smile for the camera......yeah sitting wasn't happening.

In June we went to the zoo. Maddie loved petting the animals...much to Daddy's dismay. Can you guess which one of us took her into the zoo and which one was armed with the Purell when she came out?

Playing with our favorite older cousin while getting to visit our new littlest cousin.

Month 11 brought more pictures and our personality really starting to develop. We did solve the 'sitting' issue at the photographers.....just put her in a bag so she can't get out!

A new year brings new friends and new toys. We can't wait to see what year 2 has in store!

Birthday Fun

2010-09-11T07:37:00.002-05:00

I can't believe that it has been a year since we first welcomed our little girl into this world. This past year has been an emotional roller coaster full of joys, tears and wonderful memories. Madison is such a blessing to our lives. It's hard to remember what life was like before her. We always felt like our life was complete, but she adds a new joy to it.

I'm not saying there aren't days/nights of frustation. We all 3 have our days when we reach our limit and just need a break. Luckily those days are far and few between and are surrounded by days of new experiences and special memories. We are also blessed to have an AMAZING group of family and friends that love Maddie as much as we do. This past weekend we all got to celebrate Madison's first year. It was a great time and we can't wait to see what the upcoming years have in store for us.

My first birthday dinner. Mommy made some of my favorites...watermelon, corn, and hotdogs.

Opening a BIG doggie from Grandma Mary. I love dogs. 'Doggie" was one of my first words and I say it every time I see a dog when we are out taking walks. Sometimes I get upset because my Mommy doesn't let me run over and pet them right away. She says I have to ask first. So I do and then I get to pet them.....so fun!

Reading a new book. about can you guess........DOGS!

My special butterfly cake and the cupcakes Mommy made formy party.

Ummmmm.....cake is good!

After I ate with my hands for a while, Mommy gave me a fork to use. I am really good at using a fork when I eat and get so excited when I 'jab' something.

Opening presents and eating cake can wear a girl out. Luckily I can take a break here with my cousin Carson.......I love that boy.

OMG!!! Can you believe I am one?

Our little musician

2010-09-05T00:33:00.000-05:00

While it's not a tuba or a brass instrument....it's a start. Now to work on our buzzing so we can be ready for any and all future brass band gigs.

Maddie has always enjoyed 'playing' the piano. However it is usually just walking over to the piano and reaching up and banging at the keys.....usually when I am trying to give a voice or piano lesson. Now she likes to sit up at the bench and actually 'play'. If we are lucky we will even get some singing along with our song. I have to admit....I LOVE IT!

2010-08-22T08:10:00.001-05:00

As Maddie is becoming more and more independent meal time has become more and more of an adventure. There are day that she seems to eat EVERYTHING in the frig and other days she wants nothing to do with her 'favorite' foods. While it has been a while since we have actually eaten jarred baby food she is become more and more adventurous with her food choices.

We can usually get her to eat 'baby food' if it is some kind of fruit. Veggies that come in the jar are a no go. She loves olives and cheese (can you tell that she might have a little Italian in her?) and can't get enough pasta with sauce. We have recently tried scrambled eggs which seems to enjoy if I leave them in big enough chunks for her to grab. Another morning favorite....besides the no fail cheerios....is yogurt. She loves to have a gogurt and usually eats 1 1/2 to 2 along with her cheerios.

Here Maddie is trying out some of Daddy's pizza at whole foods. She did pretty well biting into it. Having 7 teeth help with tearing off a big hunk of the cheese.

Here is one of our first attempts at eggs. Maddie is getting very good at using her fork. However I made one of I'm sure many Mommy mistakes and gave her the bowl of eggs. It stayed on her tray for about 5 minutes. Then the bowl was flipped over...not to bad...and then thrown onto the floor with the rest of the eggs. Oh well, that's what a broom and mop are for!

Speaking of sweeping. Maddie is a big help sweeping up the kitchen floor after eating. We used to sweep the floor once a week or so...now it seems like we are doing it 3-4 times a day. Luckily we have a good little helper.

As I said before, Maddie is getting very good at using her fork. We are still working on the spoon. She thinks that she can just stab at things like her fork, but that isn't working as well. The other night however she found another utensil....her finger. She was eating olives and realized that a pointer finger was far more effective at getting the olives then her fork.

We have started kissing everything as well. Mommy and Daddy get kisses before bed. Maddie loves to give herself kisses in the mirror. However we usually get a single kiss. At dinner the other night we started getting multiple kisses. Hope you enjoy.

A few good laughs.....

2010-08-16T23:45:00.000-05:00

Maddie is constantly cracking us up. From being a little ham (wonder where she gets that from), to testing us to the point that we have to turn away so we don't laugh to her contagious laugh, Miss Maddie is an absolute joy and we are blessed to have her in our lives. I know that we don't see all of our extended family as much as we would like to people don't see how fast she is growing up. I hope that these little snippets of our Miss Maddie bring a smile to your face until you get to see the real thing in person.

The lighting on this one isn't all that good, but the sound is what you really need to hear. Marley and Maddie are playing together so much more in just the past week or two. Marley is a woman on the go...crawling everywhere and chasing Maddie. Maddie loves the attention and tries to show Marley all of her fun toys and gadgets around the house.

This video is just after lunch the other day. I had just finished giving the girls their lunch and was over by the sink getting things cleaned up. The next thing I heard was Marley just giggling away. Maddie would then get excited and giggle and scream and the whole thing would start over again! I sat and just laughed with them for a while then ran to get the camera. This is about 10 minutes into their 'conversation'. I didn't get the really good part, but the part that I did get is priceless. I love how at the end both girls decided that they were 'done.' We have taught 'done' to Maddie and Marley has picked it up to let me know when she is done with lunch. Maddie has picked up Marley's snooty face as you can see from some of the other pictures on the other posts.

This next one is of Maddie before bed tonight. She had already eaten dinner and had her bath for the night. Mike and I were sitting down to eat our dinner before our nightly routine of reading a few books, having a bottle and then rocking to sleep (Maddie that is....not Mike and I). Usually Maddie will find something to do to amuse herself while we eat or will be happy watching Yo Gabba Gabba for 10/15 minutes while we shovel our food in! However tonight was not one of those nights. She wanted to be in the kitchen with us....pulling at our legs and asking to be picked up. So we put her in her high chair next to us armed her with a piece of bread and some banana flavored puffs and we were good. That was until she realized that her arms were long enough to reach the top of her head and she could 'store' her puffs there.

So we decided that she was either being a little ham or that it was getting close to bedtime and she was getting a little loopy. I personally have NO idea where she would get being a ham from so it had to be a bit of loopiness before bed. I hope you enjoy Miss Maddie as much as we do.

Going to the Fair

2010-08-09T10:54:00.000-05:00

We had a lot of fun at the Ohio State Fair this year. It was Maddie's first trip and she had such a great time. Over the last few months she has really started to develop a love and interest of animals. (Much to Daddy's shagrin) When we are out for walks she gets so excited to see dogs or the geese across the pond. We have been working on animals sounds as well when we are reading our books. She does a great 'moo', 'baa', 'woof' and 'grr'. Visiting all the animal barns at the fair we knew was going to be a thrill for her.

This is a video of us checking out the horses. Take a look at how big her eyes get!

Our first stop was the sheep barn. Talk about sensory overload! Miss Maddie loved the lambs baa-ing at her and would baa right back.

Checking out the momma cows with Daddy. If you ask her she will tell you that a cow says ...'mooooo'.

This one is pretty blurry, I know. Mike was taking in through the glass at the hog barn. This is the momma pig and her little babies. Maddie really enjoyed petting the momma pig with it's bristly hair.

No trip to the Ohio State Fair would be complete without a trip to see Smokey Bear. Smokey talked to Maddie and even gave her an honorary forest ranger certificate.

Practicing our fork skills trying to eat some of Mommy and Daddy's gyro. She loved eating the olives and thought the lamb meat was super tastey too.

Chillin' with our bottle on the way home.....a tired little girl.

But not too tried for ice cream!! This was Maddie's first cone (up untill this point she and Mommy had been sharing). We still fed her the ice cream with a spoon and let her lick a few times. Once all the ice cream was gone, I stuffed a napkin in the cone so it wouldn't drip and she went to town on the cone.

She decided since I was so nice to share all the times before, she would share her cone with me. What a nice little girl.

We made some great memories and can't wait to keep the fair as a family tradition that we have each year!

What a difference a year makes

2010-08-03T09:56:00.001-05:00

Last year about this time Mike and I got to watch Carson for the day. We called it our 'training' for when Maddie was here. I was about 8 months pregnant at the time. We spent the day playing outside and baking. Yesterday, I picked Carson up at school and brought him over to our house again for a birthday celebration. Not only was it a way for us to help celebrate his 4 year birthday, but gave Janna, Jeff and new baby Caden a little bit of down time as well.

We made cupcakes for Carson to take to school the next day to share with his classmates. (We attempted bowling ball and bowling pin cupcakes, but ending up with pool balls instead!) Mike and Carson played baseball outside with Maddie chasing them around and we all had Chinese for dinner. I was such a fun evening, but after we dropped Carson back off at home Mike looked at me and said 'I thought I was ready for another one.....but not yet!'. I agree. While we would LOVE to add to our family sooner then later it gave us a really eye opening into what having 2 or more kiddos is like. I know in time that we will be ready for it, but kudos to those of you who do it and do it well!!

Here are a few of the pics that we took last night, as compared to a year ago. A LOT of changes. Carson looks so much bigger. I on the other hand....not quite so big.

Baking bread two years ago.

Getting ready to ice our cupcakes this year.

Waiting patiently with Grandma Janice's apron on last year.

Same apron and a new helper this year.....and still waiting patiently.

Enjoying the fruits of our labor after some yummy Chinese. Carson picked all of the chicken out of his fried rice (definitely his father's son) and loved his potsticker. Janna's influence was there as well. At dinner I asked him if he liked green beans (I make a hoisin green bean dish that we were going to have). He kind of looked at me strangely and said 'huh?' I tried to explain them and his response was ' Do you mean edamame?' Thanks Aunt Janna!

Redneck Jungle Gym

2010-07-31T22:26:00.000-05:00

After an eventful trip to Costco the other day, Mike and I began unpacking all of our groceries. Maddie was getting close to nap time and we were hoping that we would have 5-10 minutes of her occupying herself before she got too tired that the tears before nap time came. We put her in the living room with some of her toys and a few books. However, when we looked over we found that she wasn't sitting in the living room where we had just put her. Instead she had made her way into the hallway and began playing on the toilet paper and towels we just brought in from the car. Needless to say we stopped what I was doing....groceries can wait...and Maddie and played on the toilet paper for about 30 minutes. In the simplicity of the moment I was reminded at how our little ones don't need a lot of fancy gadgets and toys to play with. They need an imagination, a sense of security and a fun playmate to enjoy their time with. All I can say is that I am SO glad that I get to be that playmate.

A few more pictures from our playtime together.

This is how we found her.....on top of the paper towel rolls.

She was DETERMINED to get on top of this. Notice her little pouty face lips? That is our newest face. We get it whenever there is a food or something that we don't want to eat.....or we are really concentrating on something.

Mike couldn't resist taking a picture of the little flower bloomers.

A proud little girl once she was able to stand up.

Maddie kept getting frustrated because her dress was just a little too long (it's a 6 month and she turns 11 months on Monday!) and she would step on it.

Needing a little bit of assistance from Mom when trying to walk across the top. Those paper towels aren't very stable.

Maddie and Daddy

2010-07-21T22:13:00.001-05:00

We have had so much fun this summer with Madison.While I love my time with her and we have our special girls moments, she will have some great memories with her Dad as well. Mike has always been an amazing husband so I guess it is no surprise that he is an amazing dad as well. Here are just a few of my favorites Maddie and Daddy pics of the summer.

Hanging out on the big horse at Rod's Western Palace.

Learning how to buzz on Daddy's tuba mouthpiece. This is a lesson that he was giving at Music and Arts in Westerville. Maddie and I went out for a walk....to find some dogs to look at....during the lesson. Most of Mike's lessons are at the house. Maddie is going to miss them once school starts. She loves to go into the lessons and sit and listen. Sometimes she will just stand and watch. Sometimes she will dance as they play. My favorite though is to watch her crawl over and sit on Mike's lap as he teaches. Mike on a chair with his trumpet and Maddie just listening. It's a wonderful picture.

An evening at Uncle Dom's baseball game. They won the district tournment and are headed to States next week. Looks like more baseball for us!

Cheering on Daddy at the softball field as he plays Friday nights.

Mike and Maddie after listening to Daddy play his tuba at Comfest. It was HOT that day. Maddie slept through the first part of the concert, but was up in time to dance and bust a grove to the final few numbers.

Uncle Vince

2010-07-19T15:39:00.001-05:00

We had a wonderful, yet bittersweet evening at the Porretta's last evening. Mike's brother Vince is headed to Edmonton, Canada to pursue his doctorate in linguistics. While classes don't start until September, he is headed out this week to get settled in his new place before the rigors of school begin. We enjoyed some wonderful food thanks to Grandma Mary and just enjoyed our time together as a family.

Maddie got an early birthday gift as well, since Uncle Vince won't be here for her party in September.

She loved her dog birthday card and is in LOVE with her newest stuffed animal. She is all about dogs right now.When Maddie is not happy the one thing that gets her in a good mood is seeing a dog. She says 'doggie-doggie' and just grins and smiles.

We are so sad that we won't get to see Uncle Vince on a regular basis, but are so happy for this new phase of his life. Even though he won't be across town anymore we are excited to get to talk to him via SKYPE which Uncle Vince set us up with. Now thanks to our new webcam we will get to share with him all of our new words, dance moves and fun times as Miss Maddie grows up.

We Love you Uncle Vince!

Happy 4th of July

2010-07-12T16:30:00.000-05:00

Maddie at the 4th of July concert in Bexley. Mike plays in the Bexley Meadow Band every 4th of July and Labor Day for their concerts. The last time Maddie heard the group play she was literally 3 days old. A little different this year for sure. She still got a little fussy and tired at the end of the concert like last time, but this concert she danced and walked all around the campus of Capital University. Here she is trying to figure out the pinwheels that lined the walkways.

We spent some time over at the Grandma and Grandpa Porrettas 4th of July weekend. Here is Maddie loving on Grandpa David. Notice the "Grandpas Rule" T shirt. It was pretty hot out so we put out the little blow up pool that Uncle Vince and Dom got her.

Here's Maddie showing off her new bathing suit. (Thanks Aunt Kathy and Cousin Erin). The little one already has the 4-H pose down. Norma Pitts would be so proud!

This is the closest that we ever got to actually sitting down in the pool. Most of her time is spent walking around and bending over and splashing. We still haven't made it to the 'big kid pool.' I am excited to get her into a pool where I can hold her and we can start to learn to kick and swim. I was such a water baby growing up. I hope that Miss Maddie has the same love of water as well.

Dancing Queen

2010-07-12T10:11:00.001-05:00

Its no secret that Madison had a lot of musical experiences in her short 10 months. From sitting through countless piano lessons when I was pregnant to listening to me sing everyday in musical class she has had music as a part of her life from the moment she was conceived. Now music continues to be a part of her everyday life. If you come over to the house you will most likely hear her banging on the piano at some point during the day (sometimes in the middle of Mommy's voice or piano lessons). You will hear her singing with Mommy or listening to Mommy and Daddy sing nursery rhymes from her favorite jazz book. Madison sits and plays while Daddy teaches countless lessons in the front room ranging from trumpet to saxophone to clarinet. Maddie will walk in the from room, stare at the kids. Sometimes she'll walk over and want to crawl up on Daddy's lap and listen. The music never seems to bother her. It is a part of her everyday life and we hope that she will have a love of music just like her Mommy and Daddy.

So it shouldn't have surprised us when Miss Madison started getting her grove on to the music on my cell phone. She started bouncing around and waving her hand up in the air. Let's just say that Ellen might have a new dance partner for her talk show.

A collection of Madison

2010-06-19T22:25:00.001-05:00

Miss Maddie LOVES it outside. Every time that we open the front door she either starts running or starts waving and flapping her hands. The other day Mike went out to get the mail and Maddie 'waited' for him inside the door. Evidently she was being a little silly, so he went in and got he camera. This is what he captured..........

Do you think maybe she was hungry? Needless to say we had to wash the windows later that afternoon.

Speaking of eating and dinner we had spaghetti and meatballs for dinner the other night. We have Maddie a meatball to start dinner, while we waited for the pasta to cool down. (I went ahead and threw in so rotini in the pot along with our noodles, thinking that it would be a little easier for her to eat) However, the minute we let her eat the pasta she wanted nothing else to do with her meatball. The little girl went through about 15 rotini noodles and then insisted on more, so she got some of our spaghetti.

She had a hard time figuring out that she had to let go of one end of the noodle when she put it in her mouth/ She kept sticking a strand in then unknowingly pull it out. This made her frustrated and mad and in return she got tired. Tired girl + spaghetti = bath time and scrub down.

New friends and fun times.

2010-06-18T10:21:00.001-05:00

What a fun summer we are off to. I am excited to get to spend the year at home with Maddie next year and all of the adventures that we will have. We have already gone swimming, gone on runs in our new jog stroller, played at the park and had music time. We are excited to add another friend to our play group as well. Starting this week I have started watching a friends daughter, Marley, part time. Marley is almost 7 months and the girls are already having a great time.

On our first day together Maddie wanted to show Marley all around the house. We showed her how to play the piano and Daddy's guitar. Miss Marley even gave it a try herself!

Sharing Mommy has been a bit of a challenge, but something that Maddie is learning to do. Since Maddie is so mobile its hard for her to understand that Mommy has to hold Marley and take her places when Maddie can just go. As you can see from the picture above we are creative with how we do things.

The girls are also working on sharing toys. The first day we had a lot of talks about playing nice and being careful when touching each other...(ie not pulling on hair and poking each other in the eyes) I think that Maddie has finally figured out that Marley is real and not a doll. She is being much more gentle and kind and often offers up toys for Marley to play with (however most of the time she takes them right back.....we are still working on that part of sharing).

Here are some pictures of Marley and Maddie trying to figure each other out a little bit.

Doesn't this one look like they are up to no good? I have a feeling that I will be seeing a LOT of this over the next year.

New Best Friends. I can't wait to see what becomes of their friendship and time together as they grow up.

Weekend Fun

2010-06-14T09:56:00.000-05:00

What fun we have had this week! Maddie got her pictures taken at JCPenny. She did a great job concidering I changed her into 3 different outfits and there was a random stranger talking to her and waving a big black box in front of her face with flashes! I will post some of her pictures later this week. After our pictures we went to the play area at the mall. Maddie LOVES it there. She just squeals with delight and tries to chace the other kids around. As you can see she likes to now climb up the animals! I am not ready for this yet. She definitly has a mind of her own and when she wants to do something she does it! Below are a few of the pictures that Mike took while we were playing. We have a video of her going up the stairs, but it is sideways and I can't figure out how to flip it around.

I have been busy this week making cakes as well. Maddie loves to sit in her high chair and watch me mix everything up. Her eyes get sooo big when the mixer goes on and she just claps and claps. This weekend I gave her a spatella to play with while I was working and she continued to carry it around the rest of the day. She is also a big help at clean up time as you can see.......She likes to go over and grab the towel off of the frig door and carry it around.

Now here is the result of our work........ This is a baby shower cake for my college friend Jami's new little neice. It turned out great.

9 months old

2010-06-11T20:58:00.001-05:00

Maddie had her 9 month check up on Thursday. It's hard to believe that 9 months ago we just found out that we were going to be parents. Oh how our lives have changed! There is never a dull moment that is for sure. Madison brings so much joy to our lives, we can't imagine what we did without her.

Here's Maddie at Dr. Fulop's office. Our little peanut is 16 lbs. 8 oz. That puts her in the 10 percentile for her weight at 26 3/4 inches she is in the 15 percentile for her length. Her head circumference is in the 75th thought. Mike likes to say its because she is so smart! We were worried about her being little, but she has constantly stayed in the 10-15 % since she was born. The doctor said that was just fine.

By no means has that hindered her development. Maddie is already walking....and has been for about 2 weeks now. At about 8 months she started taking 'steps' but has been a woman on the go for a good 2 weeks now. She loves to pick up things off of the ground and carry them around the house. Her favorites are a stuffed cow that is the size she is and her Johny the Tractor book. It is a blessing that our house is set up in a circle down stairs....she just walks and walks and loves to chase Mommy around the kitchen island.

Speaking of stairs we had to go buy a baby gate this week. Mike was working in the living room the other day as Maddie was taking her daily stroll around the house when he didn't hear her any more. "Maddie...Maddie....' he called, but she didn't come pitter pattering like she normally does. He went to the front door and there she was sitting on the 3rd step of the stairs. Later that day when was working on the computer he turned to find her on the 4th step! The little one is adventurous for sure! So that afternoon we took an outing to Babies R Us and are officially sporting the baby gate....which does SO much for the overall decor of the house (Vern Yip would NOT approve).

Madison has been adventurous as far as her food goes too! Now that we are home for the summer we are trying to do less baby food and more people food. She loves it. To the point that she really doesn't want baby food now except for her cereal and the occasional canned fruit. Some of her favorites are bananas, bread, chicken and steak......yes steak (grandpa Joe and uncle Robbie would be so proud!) He have recently tired hummus which she loves. She was a big fan of the roast pork and cheesy potatoes that we had at Lauren's graduation party, so we have already got her set for all the Porteus/Buxton/Wells reunions! Speaking of family favorites, she also has her love of spaghetti and meatballs like her daddy. She had a grand time eating them the other night.....but would refuse to be fed with a fork. She would only eat them with her hands.

Life has been amazing the past 9 months. We can't wait to see what the next 9 months and many more years have in store for us. I'm sure there will be smiles and a few tears as well, but we wouldn't change it for the world!

Madison before her shot at the doctor.................

Madison after her shot at the doctor.

2010-06-08T23:58:00.001-05:00

Summer is here. Maddie and I are so excited about getting to spend some quality time together. With only a few short days left to tie up loose ends at school we have already begun having fun. We can't wait to go to the park with Daddy, watch Uncle Dominic play baseball, go to the mall on rainy days and check out the Columbus Zoo.

Not only will Maddie and I get to spend some mommy and daughter time together I am excited to get to add some new friends to our play group. Starting this summer I will be watching Marley as well and can't wait to see how the girls interact and play together. Two bubbly, happy little girls that can't wait to explore the world are going to be so much fun. In October we will add one more to our group as I am privaleged to get to watch my new nephew (as of now we will call him superhero according to his big brother Carson) when Janna goes back to work. There are SO many changed happening in my life right now and I can't wait to experience them all.

Here are a few pics of what we have been up to so far with many more to follow!

Maddie getting used to the water in her new swimming pool. Don't you just love the ruffles on that bathing suit?

After a while she decided that 'cruising' around the edge of the pool was so much more fun the playing in the water.

Finally getting used to riding in the stroller without tears! The key you ask..............Cheerios!

Maddie loves to walk around the jungle gym and hold onto the bars. Daddy thought that she would like to swing on the monkey bars for a while as well. This was at the beginning of the fun. Maddie however had a different idea of fun about 2 minutes into playing.

She LOVES her new jog stroller. We are so excited about this one. It is a double stoller that will hold up to 2 kids and 150 lbs. It also converts to a bike cart as well that you use to attach to any bike.

This is Maddie after the Grove City Community Winds Concert at Pinnical Golf Course in Grove City. Maddie was so great for the concert. Here she is next to Mike's tuba after we changed into our pjs for the ride home in the car. We were hoping that she would fall asleep on the way back to the house and we could just put her in her crib......again, she had different plans for us.

This is at the play area of the Polaris Mall......or as Mike lovingly refers to it 'the germ pit'. Lucky for us Daddy wasn't with us on this trip. Miss Maddie LOVED playing here. I think part of her fun was just to watch and chase after the other kids. I took so many more pictures, however most of them are blurred by Maddie's hands wiggling in excitment!

Toe Tapping Good Time

2010-05-30T08:44:00.003-05:00

More music time at the Porretta household. This time it's with Daddy and cousin Carson when he came over to play.

Piano lessons

2010-05-26T20:22:00.002-05:00

From the moment that I could feel Maddie moving in my belly music has always spoke to her. She heard me singing everyday in class, she sat through countless piano lessons and attended more concerts then most kids do before she was even born.

Now that Maddie is her it is obvious she has a love of music. Whenever an upbeat song comes on she is flapping her hands and bouncing all around (most of the time to the beat!). She will sit in the music room while I teach piano lessons and just listen and play. Sometimes she likes to crawl under the piano bench and know that she can pull herself up will try to 'play' along with my students. If Mike isn't around she will often times sit on my lap for a part of the lesson and just wave and 'sing'.

So I guess I shouldn't be surprised when I was making dinner tonight that the piano started playing. I turned into the music room where Maddie was playing and this is what I saw..........enjoy.

First Steps

2010-05-19T20:01:00.003-05:00

Not much to say on this one......other then let the chasing begin. From what everyone tells us our life will never again be the same. We knew that Miss Maddie would be up and walking, but didn't realize that she would be doing it at 8 months!!!Sorry that this is a little long.....the fun stuff is all in the beginning.

Having your cake and eating it too!

2010-05-17T09:54:00.006-05:00

Well Truly Scrumptious Cakes and Sweets is officially underway! Over the past year I have been making cakes on the side for a little extra income. Most of my business has been through family and friends and word of mouth. However, with staying at home next year I've decided to take things to the next level. I've talked with a girlfriend who has a graphic design degree and we are working on getting together a business card and website. Mike, for Mother's Day, went out and bought me a Cricut. They have come out with a new version for cake decorating. What this means is that I can had a lot more intricate designs to the cakes and do more fondant work as well!

I had my first wedding this past weekend. 150 cupcakes, a 2 tier wedding cake and a grooms cake. Wow, was I busy. But it was an amazing sense of pride and accomplishment seeing everything set up. I am busy for the next 3 weeks as well. I have 2-3 cakes/orders every week until the 2nd week of June. Luckily I have a great assistant who helps with all the clean up.......and quality control.

Here are some of the cakes that I've done over the past year or so. If you know of anyone who needs a cake......give me a call or drop me a line. tscakesandsweets@yahoo.com

Baby Shower Cake

Floral Retirement Cake

Another Baby Shower!

Wedding cake and 150 cupcakes!!

Groom's Cake and more cupcakes!

Birthday Cake (fall theme)

Boy Baby Shower

Monkey Birthday Cake

Football Cake for OSU party

Another shower cake

Kitchen Helper

2010-05-03T23:23:00.002-05:00

I was picking up dinner the other night and Maddie was content playing with her toys in the other room. I soon realized that I didn't hear her 'talking' anymore. Mike and I have quickly learned that means something is up. I turn to look in the living room and I don't see her anywhere. That's when I heard a squeal of joy and turned to find Miss Maddie standing at the fridge door that I had left open for a minute. I was going to taken her away....but she started having so much fun that I just let her keep playing and of course I grabbed the camera.

Needless to say everytime that she hears the door open now....she comes crawling our way. I can only hope that the walking holds off for another month or so because then we will be in some BIG trouble.

More pictures to come later....but wanted to share our fun for now.

Mover and a Shaker

2010-04-26T17:18:00.003-05:00

Miss Maddie is a girl on the go! It seems like just yesterday that I was 'wishing' the she would crawl. Now we can't get get to slow down. She loves her walker as you can tell. She pushed this thing for a good 15-20 minutes the other night. I think she was a little wired because Grandma and Grandpa Porretta were here.....but I also think she just liked showing off.

Spring Fun

2010-04-23T22:10:00.003-05:00

We have had a fun few weeks. Maddie is growing every day and it is amazing what she can do now. The little lady definitely takes after her Momma. She is a woman on the go and loves to be the center of attention. When ever we are out and about she is always waving to anyone who will look at her and tells them 'hi...hi'. That beautiful smile and bright blue eyes just sparkle when ever she meets a new friend.

Here is a glimpse of that lovely smile. This is by the pond out in front of our house. Maddie loves walking around the rock and patting on it. I think she thinks its her own bass drum. She will just pound away and sing and she scoots her way around.

We have found the one thing that will keep her in one place.......grass. She is not to sure of what to think of it yet, as you can tell from her expression here. She will sit in it, but gets a funny look on her face. She won't move in it that's for sure. She will just kind of whine for a bit until someone comes and rescues her. However, it has allowed for Mike and I to get some yard work done because we can put her on a big blanket while we are outside and not have to worry about her wandering off.

We went and watched Mike in his first softball game this week. Maddie had a great time playing with my hat and loved to watch the ball whenever it was hit and everyone made a lot of noise. However, the games start between 6-8 which is prime bedtime time.....so we'll have to see how many games we get to. The little lady did fine at the game tonight, but come 7:30 she was ready to be home and in her PJs.
Playing with Daddy in between innings at his game is too fun!

We are lucky that on most days Mike gets done with school a little early and can pick Maddie up from the sitter early as well. I am thankful that they get to have some 'Daddy' time during the day. It makes me feel not so bad about keeping her all to myself when I get home from work. Mike and Maddie love to sit and read...however the sitting still part usually doesn't last very long. (Remember, I said she is definitely MY child) She has grown up so quickly that I know she will be reading to us in no time flat!

Easter Reflections

2010-04-12T21:30:00.007-05:00

This Easter we reflected on how truly blessed we are. We have a wonderful, beautiful, happy daughter, a nice home, jobs that provide us with enough income to have all that we need and friends and family to share it all with. There are often times with life can get you down and you feel like everything is working against you. You feel like the weight of the world is on your shoulders and you just can't get out. However this Easter I am reminded that I don't have to go through these struggles alone. Jesus died on the cross for my sins and if I put my faith and trust in him I can get through anything.

I don't know if having Madison has brought about a stronger faith in me, but it has allowed me to see life in a different way. I look into her eyes and see the enjoyment and excitement that she has in the smallest of things....the remote control, her stuffed bear that sings the ABC's and her reflection in the mirror. Her smile can light up a room and in turn lights up my world. Often times when I find my self overwhelmed with work or school or life in general I will take a minute to stop and think of the world through her eyes. A world full of opportunities and new adventures. Places to go, things to explore and excitement to be had. My world is a happier place when I have her in my arms. Madison reminds me of the miracle of life and I am so thankful each and every day that God chose me to be her Mommy. I only hope that as she grows I can give her all the love and encouragement my mom gave me and provide her with an example of what a Christian woman should be. I know that I am not perfect and that I have my flaws. There will be times that I will mess up being a mom, but I also know that I will never be able to stop loving her and I pray that she will feel the same way someday.

Happy 1st Easter Madison.......Love, Mommy.

My new goal

2010-04-04T19:50:00.003-05:00

Well I have officially signed up for my first 1/2 marathon. I don't know if I am crazy or just very ambitious. I have been looking for something to help me get this final few pounds of baby weight off and realized that if I didn't have a goal that I was accountable for I was never going to do it. So thanks to the beautiful weather the past few weeks.....and some free time over spring break last week....I have dusted off my running shoes and have signed up for a race here in Columbus on May 1st.

Yes, that's right. May first. I don't know if I am going to be ready for it.....but I am going to try. I looked up some training programs and most are 10 weeks. Well I have about 3 1/2 now. I am up to running 9 miles on my 'long' day now and think that if I can add one more mile per week I will be at 12 the week and of the race. I hope that adrenaline will get me the last 1.2 on race day. It has been hard training with the little one. Mike has been great, letting me have some time in the evening or early morning to run around the neighborhood or go to the gym late. I think that I can do this.....but say a prayer for me for strength and determination in the next few weeks. I'll keep you all posted on how things are going.

New Friends

2010-04-03T19:11:00.003-05:00

Maddie and I have had a lot of fun this past week. We had some fun 'girl days' while Mike was still at work. Monday we met up for lunch with Great Grandma Jane for lunch who is in town for the entire month of March. We had a nice lunch at Scrambler Maries and Maddie was a hit with all the diners as well as the wait staff. Tuesday was a fun day as we visited Daddy at school and then later on went to the mall for dinner and pictures with the Easter Bunny. Maddie LOVED him and just smiled and smiled for the camera. Thursday it was off to Coshocton to visit our new cousin Madi MacDonald then off to see Nana Faith at her school. We planned on visiting Papaw Joe that evening....but Maddie had other plans. She was a bit of a cranky girl and Mommy just needed her to go home. Hopefully we can visit again soon though.

Last weekend while Mike was at Brass Band rehearsal I got to watch Adien (who's Mommy and Daddy were also at Brass Band). This was Maddie's first official play date. The two had a great time and so did Mommy! I have to admit I was a little nervous about having the two of them and how they would play together, but they did great. It gave me a little more confidence in knowing that things will be just fine when I take the year off next year and have Miss Marley along with Miss Maddie.

Maddie's new friend the Easter Bunny!
Maddie and Aiden.....two future percussionist for the Central Ohio Brass Band.

The two kiddos sharing toys....and germs! ;)

Some fun times and one BIG girl

2010-03-21T20:57:00.007-05:00

We can't believe how fast our little one is growing up. It seems like she is doing everything in just the last week. Maddie is now a woman on the go. She is a great crawler. We have to always have our eye on her to make sure she isn't getting into anything. She is eating 'big girl' food now and has her favorties. She loves her cereal and sweet potatoes, yet wants nothing to do with vegetables. Just last night she started to drink out of her sippy cup....but would still rather us hold it for her.

Hollywood's newest star!

Bathtime is so much fun. She loves to kick and splash in the water.

A woman on the go.....especially when she sees something that she wants. (Like the remote)

Jumping Bean

2010-03-21T12:48:00.002-05:00

Miss Maddie loves her jumper and we enjoy watching her jump. With the little one crawling now it also give Mike and I a minute or two to just sit and catch our breath. We have both been very busy and it looks like the month ahead is only busier. I'll try to post more pictures of all of our fun adventures lately. However this sleep deprived Momma is often choosing naps over pictures.

Too Long

2010-03-11T22:54:00.004-06:00

Month 6....Where has the time gone? Everyone says that they grow up so quickly.....now I understand what the mean. Since I have been back at work I have gotten away from posting come pictures and keeping everyone up to date. The truth is that at the end of the day when it comes down to it, I'd rather be 'playing' with Madison then being on the computer. But here and there I find some down time and I'll try to keep this blog update a little more. Here are some our new 'firsts'

First time eating pizza......or at least chewing on Dad's crust. SO much better then canned baby food.

Our little musician. Playing on Mommy's recorder. She actually made some sounds on it. Now, if only I could get all my 4th graders at school to do that!

Sitting at her big girl chair and LOVING to play with Cheerios. She hasn't quite figured out how to eat them....but is really good at throwing them all over the floor for us to pick up.

LOVED her first time in the shopping cart....minus the car seat. Now that she is sitting we use the Floppy Seat so much more. Madison loves to be up and looking around at everyone and everything as we go shopping. I have to say she is quite a flirt already...smiling and grinning at everyone she sees. I can see many more shopping trips with Mommy in the coming years!

Maddie and Daddy

2009-11-27T01:27:00.005-06:00

This Thanksgiving I am reminded how blessed I am to have such an amazing family. I have always appreciated my immediate and extended family, but having a new little one of my own has changed my outlook so much. Having a daugther brings such joy to my life in a way that I never could have imagined. How is it possible to think that your life is complete then this new little person comes into your world and you can't imagine how you ever functioned without her?

I know much of that joy wouldn't be there without my wonderful husband by my side. As I told him the other day, I can not remember a time when I was ever happier. Don't get me wrong, life is not easy right now....sleepless nights, juggling schedules, going back to work, dealing with stresses of job and family. But I am happy....or better said content. As I said Mike is a big part of this. It is amazing how good he is with Maddie. He has the patience of a saint, walking her and rocking her to sleep at night. He will wak up early on the weekends to take care of her so I can get a few extra minutes of sleep in.

Here are some of my favorite pictures of Maddie and Daddy time over the past 3 months.

Story time in the mornings on the weekends are a favorite time for both Maddie and Daddy.

2 Months Old

2009-10-31T05:19:00.004-05:00

Well little Miss Maddie is officially 8 weeks old. We had her 2 month Dr. appointment on Friday and our little one is 'just beautiful' as the pediatrician said. Maddie is up to 9 lbs. now and has grown for 21.5 inches long. I have a lot of friends that say she is still so tiny and that they had babies that were born 9 pounds, but we think she is perfect. She has grown almost 3 lbs. since birth and has grown 3 inches. Although her weight only puts her in the 8th percentile and her height in the 15th the doctor said that we shouldn't worry about that at all, as she was little when she was born. We are just glad that she is growing and getting bigger.....even with all of the spitting up she is doing.

Speaking of spitting up, we are still battling the acid reflux. Maddie spits up after almost every meal. Sometimes a little.....but usually a lot. We have resorted to keeping her in bibs most of the day rather then changing her clothes 5-6 times. The medication that the doctor put her on has seemed to help with the pain that she has when she is spitting up, which is a blessing for both Maddie and her parents. The doctor suggested weighing her milk with cereal to help it stay down and gave us some special formula to try as well. However, we are still suspicious of a possible milk allergy as the trigger for some of the more 'powerful' reflux and looking at exploring that as well.

Along with Maddie's check up to day she had her first round of immunizations. She did fantastic....or as well as a 2 month old can when given 3 shots. However I think that the trip to the doctors and the shots wore her out because when we went to the DeSales football game that night she feel asleep about 6:30 and didn't wake up until 4:00 the next morning! She then ate for about 50 minutes and quickly fell back to sleep....along with Daddy on the couch.

Madison's first official high school football game.....dressed as a pumpkin in honor of Halloween the next day. She slept through the whole thing, including the marching band that was playing 5 feet in front of her.
The little one woke up long enough for me to get her from the front pack to the car seat and then fell asleep on the way home....only to sleep until 4:00 the next morning.

Maddie and Daddy back to sleep Saturday morning after both having a busy, tiring Friday night.

Fall Fun

2009-10-26T09:08:00.010-05:00

The Porretta family has been busy the past few weeks. Maddie is keeping Mommy and Daddy on their toes. She tried drinking out of a bottle for the first time and after a rough start seems to like it pretty well. She drinks much better there now as opposed to breast feeding where she sometimes just likes to 'hang out'. I will think that she is done after 3-4 min. of no sucking, only to take her away and have her cry and cry and cry until I let her nurse again.

Speaking of nursing we are trying to figure out what is making her so fussy and spitting up all the time. We think that it is something that I am eating in addition to the bad acid reflux she is experiencing. So for the last week I have eliminated all dairy, chocolate, spices, acidic fruits and gassy vegetables from my diet. (Oatmeal and chicken breast are my new staple foods.....sounds yummy huh?) Slowly I am trying to reintroduce various items back to see how they affect her. We have found that she gets fussier, sometimes with increased spit up...more like vomit....and sometimes diarrhea when I eat milk products. We have an appointment with the pediatrician on Fri. for her 2 month check up and we plan on talking to her about it then. We are thinking though that the problem right now might be a dairy allergy. (Maybe it was the over abundance of soft serve yogurt that I craved during pregnancy that is finally catching up to me!)

But in between all the the dirty burp clothes, loads of laundry and tears....sometimes from Maddie and sometimes from Mommy....we have had some fun times too. Here are some of the things that we have been up to this month.

We watched Daddy marching the the Otterbein Homecoming Parade and play 'Old Man River' with the Alumni Band.

Later that night we went to the 100 Years of Band concert at Otterbein to hear him play again. Mommy was worried because I usually get fussy at night and the concert was 8:00. I cried the entire way to the concert, but as soon as the music started I was happy and even danced to a few songs. However, when the music stopped at the end of the evening I was really sad......and cried the whole way home.

I looked super cute in my October outfit.

Mommy and Daddy took me to Boo at the Zoo. I dressed up as a pumpkin and lots of people told me how cute I looked. I didn't hear them though because I slept most of the time we were there.

When we were at the zoo a really scary tiger came up and roared at us. At first it really scared me until I realized it was just my cousin Carson. We had fun later riding the train together. I can't wait until I am a little bigger and we can have more fun playing together.

Bumbo Fun!

2009-10-20T13:23:00.005-05:00

Now that Miss Maddie can hold her head up we broke out the Bumbo chair this week. We were a little unsure if she would like it, but it was a success. We love it too! It has been great to sit her in while we are eating dinner at the table or take it upstairs to sit while we are do laundry. I enjoy having her so close when she is up and alert. This way we can still talk and play while I get some things done around the house!

At first she wasn't too sure of what to think about the chair.

Then she cried.......

and now it's not so bad!

Our first official meal at the table as a family.

(Technically Maddie is ON the table, but that's OK)

One happy baby who is smiling more and more each day.

Its all worth it.

2009-10-16T00:08:00.004-05:00

Well it has been an intesting few weeks. Just when we think we have Miss Maddie figured out, she throws us for a loop. About 2 weeks ago went to the doctor because Maddie just wasn't her self...spitting up a lot, not nursing as well, crying all the time and hardly sleeping during the day....we found out Maddie has severe acid reflux. There really isn't much we can do.....other then hope that she out grows it. The doctor did give us some medication that would help with the pain in her esophagus. It seemed to help and Maddie was acting a little more like herself....even doing well on a long weekend trip to New York to visit family.

That however was short lived. Last week the crying started back up again. During the day it wasn't as bad. She would still cry after she spit up, but it wasn't the wailing cry that it was before thanks in part to the Zantax the Dr. prescribed. However evenings were/are a different story. About 6:00 each night we would start with our crying spell. Nothing we could do would calm her down. Mike and I spent our evenings walking around the circle of the house bouncing, shhhhing, and trying to calm her down. I am so thankful to have Mike to take this journey with. It seems like when one of us is at our wit's end the other one is refreshed and ready to step in.

The constant crying lasted for about a week until we discovered our new best friend.....the vacuum cleaner! It seems to be the only thing that will calm her down. The only problem is that when you shut it off....she starts crying again. So needless to say our carpets are really clean! We have even resorted to getting out the old sweeper to run just so we don't wear our regular one out (however that just might be the way to get that DYSON that I have always wanted).

Maddie seems to be doing a little better these last few days. She still spits up A LOT after almost every meal and doesn't seems to be in as much discomfort as long as she has her medicine. She has started sleeping through the night.....once we can get her to fall to sleep that is. I don't know if it's her feeling better or us just finding the 'tricks' that work best for us. In any case, we are still trudging along. This road called parenting is filled with bumps and roadblocks and twists and turns. Occasionally though, as we are driving along we see an amazing view that reminds us of God's special gift to us and why we love our little one so much.......no matter how sleep deprived, stressed or covered in spit up we are.

One Month Check Up

2009-10-08T19:02:00.002-05:00

We had our one month check up today. The little one is up to 8 lbs. exactly and is now 19.5 inches long. I can't believe that she has gained a pound and a half in just 5 weeks. The doctor said that she is 'beautiful'.....and we would agree. Now, if we could only get this acid reflux in line. The medicine has seemed to help her pain when spitting up....but she still spits up ALL THE TIME. So, we have resorted to having burp clothes strategically placed around the house and a bib on her after feedings!

Next month we go back and she gets her shots. Mommy is not looking forward to that one. We'll have to make sure that Daddy goes with us to that one....for moral support for us both! Because as you can see Miss Maddie is a Daddy's girl.

2009-10-07T15:03:00.003-05:00

This weekend we had our first trip to Coshocton. What else could we have done then to go to the County Fair? We had a great time seeing the animals, visiting with family and friends....and of course sleeping. Maddie did a great job at her first fair. We can't wait to go back next year when she is older and can really start to notice things like the animals, and pumpkins and smell all the yummy fair food.

This was also the first time that many of our family members on the Wells side of the family have gotten to see Maddie. Some people like Papa Joe and Gammie Gwen have visited before but it's always nice to spend more time with them. Here are some of the people that miss Maddie got to meet this past weekend.

Uncle Jimmy got to hold me....and I didn't even cry! He is expecting his own little one in March. I can't wait to meet him/her and have fun playing over the years.

Papa Joe loved my pumpkin feet and I loved the horse barn. Maybe in a few months I'll get to sit on one of the horses.

Aunt Jacquie knew just how to calm me down. My cousing JD got to meet me for the first time too. I hope that soon he will take me for a ride with his pony Tucker.

Gammie Gwen waited so patiently to hold me all day.....but when she did I decided I was hungry. I promise I'll be better next time Gammie!

I had a great time at the fair and met so many people and saw so many new things. I didn't pet any of the animals, so for now my cow lovey will have to do.

Our First Month

2009-09-28T21:08:00.002-05:00

We have had a busy first month. Maddie is getting used to us....and we are getting used to her. I am amazed at how much she has changed in just 3 1/2 weeks now. Mike and I often sit and wonder just how much more she will change or what she will be like when she gets older. We love our little girl and are so blessed to have her in our lives. We know that she will bring us both joy and frustration in the weeks, months and years to come.....and we wouldn't have it any other way.

Maddie had many 'firsts' this month. One of her 'firsts' was a road trip to NY to visit her Great Grandparents and her cousins.

Great Grandma and Grandpa Porretta

Great Grandma Jane

'First' major blowout..........more to come I am guessing.

First college game day. Hanging out with Daddy and watching all of the games on a Saturday afternoon. Mommy really appreciates this because it gives her a chance to go to the store and pick up groceries or just catch a cat nap.

First bath! Miss Maddie didn't like it at first, but has quickly taken to the tub. She now starts crying when we turn the water off and take her out of the tub.

A long time coming

2009-09-05T02:38:00.009-05:00

I know it's been a while since I've posted last, but things have just gotten away from me. Not that I plan on having much free time in the coming months, but I hope to be a little better about keeping the page up to date. So to catch everyone up on the BIG changes in our lives the past few months........we are no longer a family of 2 but a family of 3!

Madison (Maddie) Faith Porretta was born at 12:23 am on Sept. 2, 2009.

Our precious little one weighed in at 6 lb. 7 oz. and was 18 1/2 in. long.

Maddie looks A LOT like her Daddy and already has him tied around her tiny little finger.

While she has Daddy's looks, she has much of Mom's personality. She has a mind and a will of her own. She likes being in charge and to do things on her time and in her own way....often resulting in Mommy being tired from LONG nights up.

But Momma loves her little Maddie bug and wouldn't change her for the world!

We can't wait to share more pictures of Maddie over the next few months as she changes and grows. We know that there will be stories to share and memories to be made. Thank you in advance to all of out families and friends who will help makes those memories possible and for loving little Miss Maddie as much as we do.

Early Easter Memories

2009-04-06T13:19:00.006-05:00

I know that it's been a long time since I have posted.......but not much has happened. Both Mike and I have been busy with school. I however enjoyed some days or R and R last week on my spring break. It was wonderful to get things done around the house, start to work on the baby's room, make fresh pasta for later in the month and a big kettle of sauce. I told Mike that I could get used to this staying at home thing!

He is in Florida this week enjoying the wonderful weather........while it is now snowing outdie my windo in Ohio....and watching Dom play baseball. However, with him being gone, he missed out at the early Easter Egg Hunt at Dad and Gwens. Oh well......he'll be here next year and there will be one more little bunny hunting eggs!

Jeff, Carson and JD hunting eggs.

The boys and the bunny of the hour.

A hill of flowers and two little boys.

Mom and son/daughter & Mom and son.

Amazing Artwork

2009-03-09T14:04:00.006-05:00

I know that it has been a while since I've posted, but there really hasn't been anything new and exciting going on. Mike is busy with his high school musical. I am getting back in the swing of things with lessons and trying to rest up on the weekends as much as I can. In reflecting both of us have realized that sometimes we take life too fast and don't stop to really take time and enjoy those things around us. Thanks to an email from my sister, I was forced to do that today. Here are some amazing photos that one can't help but to stop and take in the beauty of. I hope you enjoy them as much as I did.

This is a realy little girl sitting on the lily pad. The rest is calk art.

This little boy is standing on flat pavement! He is not drawn in. The chalk painting is all done by hand.

Much needed weekend away

2009-02-17T15:25:00.005-06:00

Mike and I had a much needed mini-vacation this weekend. With the baby coming, work and just the stresses of everyday life we decided that we needed a little alone time. Time away from the work that we bring home, the phone calls from family....just time away to enjoy being a couple.

We headed down to Cincinnati Sunday after church, checked into our hotel and headed to The Melting Pot for dinner. It is one of our favorite places to eat....but we only get there on 'special occasions'. Well this was a special occasion and we had a great time. After a nice dinner we decided to for go the chocolate fondue and head back to the hotel. However, both of our sweet teeth kicked in and we stopped at McDonald's for an ice cream sundae. That evening we just relaxed at the hotel and caught up on some of our favorite TV shows including the brand new season of amazing race.

Monday we headed over to the IKEA factory in West Chester. We had a few things that we were looking for like some baby furniture and a sofa table. We found everything that we were looking for and more. We quickly decided that we would be able to spend a heck of a lot of money there with out realizing it. The baby furniture that we thought we liked in the catalogue, we didn't like in the store. However we found a sofa table we loved and picked up some new china and a board for rolling out my pasta!! It was a great day, only to be made better by a stop in the food court on the way out the door for some soft serve ice cream and one tasty cinnamon roll.

After stopping by the in-laws in the way home we settled back in at the house to get ready for the rest of the week. I am reminded that sometimes we need to make sure that we have a little 'us' time in our busy lives. I know that we see each other every day, but at times you just got through life and forget to make those connections......or you just take them for granted. I also realized that time together doesn't have to by fancy or cost a lot of money. It can be as simple as walking around a giant store for 5 hours and spending $3.00 in the food court.

A weekend with friends

2009-02-10T14:16:00.010-06:00

This weekend Mike and I were able to get together with some old college friends. We had a fantastic time. So many times we get caught up in our day to day lives and miss out on the joy of just sitting and laughing and having fun.

We've decided that the OC gang needs to get together more often. I mean we all live in the same town, but we rarely get together. So far we've gotten together it at least once a month since Christmas! Sometimes it's dinner out, this weekend it was fajita and Wii night at the Porretta household. I know that doesn't seem like much it's a start and a monthly tradition that we hope to continue.

Here are some of the highlights from the evening.

There was going to be a video here.....but it doesn't want to load!

This is me trying my best to hula hoop. I must say that my hips aren't moving as fast as they used to.....and may did this get me tired quick! I must say thank you to my wonderful husband for taping my performance.....which I was unaware of at the time!

Jami and Allison rocking it out on Guitar Hero. Whoever knew Eye of the Tiger would sound so great?

Mike and Brad showing the girls how it is really done!

Childhood Survey

2009-02-02T22:34:00.007-06:00

I am up late tonight because I have heartburn and can't get to sleep. I came across this survey about your childhood. I think that some of you probably know most of my answers already and some of you might be a little surprised. For others it might explain some things!

Here are my answers. Mike filled in his answers too. His are in green and mine are in black. As we are starting our own family I can only wonder how our child will answer these same questions 30 years from now.

1. How far back can you remember your childhood (how old)?: I remember going to see Babes in Toyland in Kindergarten. I guess that would be age 5. About 3
2. Who would you say had the biggest part in raising you?: Mom and Dad. Both for different reasons My Mom
3. Name 3 of your favorite childhood toys.: My Cabbage Patch Doll Julie, Rusifee my stuffed something or other, any Barbie that we had. Legos, Thumb Wrestlers, Nintendo...........I was also very fond of my stuffed spiderman that had velcro on his hands and feet as well as my CHiP's motorcycle.
4. What was your favorite Disney movie?: Just one..... I loved and still do love all of them! If I had to choose my top would be The Little Mermaid. I didn't really like them all that much but if I had to choose......101 Dalmatians. Peter Pan was ok too, I guess.
5. Favorite cartoon?: Gummi Bears or Smurfs There were way too many to name them all but a few of the favorites were: HeMan, ThunderCats, Gummi Bears, Smurfs, Tom. and Jerry (but I wasn't allowed to watch it.....to violent) and GIJoe......I know what you are thinking but it's true.......GIJoe, good....Tom and Jerry, bad.
6. Were your parents together for most of your childhood?: All my childhood. I couldn't have asked for better parents. Yes and still are today
7. Were you an only child?: No....I was the middle child. (I know that explains a lot for some of you) No....the oldest of 3 boys.
8. Where did you live at the age of 4?: Coshocton, Ohio .......on the farm Brockport, NY
9. Where were you born?: Coshocton, Ohio.....at the hospital not the farm! Wilmington, DE
10. Do you know how much you weighed at birth?: 7lbs. 14 oz??? 7lbs. 3 oz.
11. What was your first word?: According to Mom it was 'ganna'....which for those of you who don't speak toddler....it's Janna. From what I hear once I said it I wouldn't stop...over and over again. 'da da'........baby talk for Dad
12. How old were you when you took your first steps?: I wasn't sure so Mom filled me in. First step was at 7 months and was more of a run then a walk. She said I had one speed.....fast.....or I crashed. (Much like me today!) 8 1/2 months......not a very timid walker but not a crazy man like on the go Julie!!! (however I was potty trained a half month later.....something I am quite proud of to this day!)
13. Were you a mama or daddy's girl/boy?: I would say neither. I was pretty independent. A little of both.....I didn't like to disappoint anyone. I was more of a Mamma's boy and still am today.
14. Did you know all of your grandparents?: All but my Dad's mom, she died when he was a little boy. Yes.
15. Ever get spanked?: Spanked no.....soap in the mouth.....yes. Once, because I ran out into the street but it was more like a pat.
16. What elementary school/schools did you attend?: Conesville St. Peter's Catholic Elementary School.
17. Did you ride the bus?: In 6th grade and I thought it was the best thing in the world!! Only in Middle School and I HATED it.
18. Did you take your lunch to school or eat cafeteria food?: Usually ate at school. Sue Adams was the BEST cook. Most of the time I took my lunch to school, but I can remember buying every once and a while.
19. Who was your favorite elementary school teacher?: Mrs. Pooley Either my 1st or 3rd grade teachers.....I can't remember their names. I did NOT like Mrs. Jinjrazack.....I do remember that name.
20. Did you have any special names for your grandparent?: Nope...just Grandma and Grandpa Just my grandpa on my mom's side......PopPop
21. How old were your parents when you were born?: Dad was 30 mom was 25??? Dad was 29, Mom and 26
22. Were you named after anyone?: My Great Great Grandma and a student that my mom had in class My middle name is after my Dad.
23. What was your favorite candy?: Butterfinger All of them......I was a little bit of a chunker growing up. If I had to pick one favorite it would be bubble gum cigarettes........(this coming from the asthma prone man who almost passed out at his first personal training session this year)
24. Favorite board/card game?: Clue.........and I HATED Monopoly. I really liked this game called Labyrinth. I, unlike Julie, like and still like to this day the game Monopoly.
25. Did you have an imaginary friend?: Nope....lots of cousins and siblings to keep me busy. No.....I didn't have an imagination so having an imaginary friend was not an option.
26. Were you very close with your family, other than immediate?: Yes. My cousins were more like brothers and sisters. No.....we lived too far away.
27. Who was your best childhood friend?: It changed throughout school, but probably the one who I played with the most was my sister Janna and my cousin Amy. In elementary school it was Jonathan and Davis. In middle school.........well lets just say those are 2 years of my life that I don't remember with fond memories. In high school and college it would be Matt....hands down.
28. What kind of neighborhood did you live in?: A farm isn't a neighborhood. We lived in a subdivision........2 different ones in NC along with a rental house and a subdivision when we moved up to Ohio.
29. Did you ever go to day care?: Not a day care center, but went to the baby sitter's during the day. Yes....but not a real one. I went to a lady's house where I got to sit on her son's motorcycle, eat Captain Crunch and take naps on the sofa. I also picked strawberries and green beans from her garden.....I know I can't even believe it now. But, don't worry I made sure I washed my hands when I was done.
30. Ever go to summer camp?: YES!!! 4-H camp at Camp Ohio and many sports camps NO
31. Are you still good friends with anyone you grew up with?: Yep Other then Matt...no.
32. What did you want to be when you grew up?: A doctor For the longest time it was Wonder Woman.....seriously. Later on I really wanted to be an astronaut (until the shuttle blew up) and then an architect. However I wasn't good in math so I never followed my dream.
33. Would you say you were spoiled?: No No.
34. What were you scared of the most as a child?: Snakes Messing up, disappointing my parents, using scissors, the dark, the tape we use to listen to in Kindergarten about Chicken little and the sky falling.....I couldn't get to sleep during nap time because we listened to it almost every day, snakes, dogs, spiders (we had the jumping kind in NC), getting dirty......do I really need to go on? I think you get the point.
35. What's your favorite childhood memory?: Summer Adventures with Janna, Amy, Matt and Robbie Trips to NY to visit my family.

Latest Update

2009-02-02T08:34:00.002-06:00

I have been getting a lot of grief from people because I haven't posted much on the site lately. Unfortunately I don't have any fun pictures, but here is a quick update of what has been going on so far.

1. Cold Weather - About 2 weeks ago we were hit with FRIGID temperatures and snow. Cold temps. mean bad things for the upstairs bathroom at the Porretta house. The toilet is on an outside wall and ever since we moved in when it gets really cold out, the toilet won't fill back up. We know it's a problem, but the pipes are in the floor and we just dealt with it for the day and used another bathroom. Well last week our procrastination in dealing with it caught up to us. We had a pipe freeze and break causing water to pour out all over the kitchen floor. We were lucky that the pip burst in the over hang of the house and didn't damage any walls or ceilings. It did however drip into the basement which now gives us a reason to go though the boxes of old papers and school things that were just sitting down there.

2. Cold Weather Strikes Again - This past week we got hit with another batch of snow. Not quite so cold as the last one, but this one came with enough snow and ice to give both Mike and I two days off of school. Mike spent much of his first day shoveling snow and being the loving husband while I laid on the couch and slept....(see baby website for more info on that issue). We ventured out on our second day to have lunch at one of our favorite eateries.....Cafe Shishkabab. It's a Turkish Restaurant that has great lunch specials, but we don't get to partake in them because we are at school every day. The road were ok by us the over in Arlington where the restaurant is was another thing. I do have to give Mike A LOT of credit. He kept his comments pretty calm about the other crazy drivers during the trip.......maybe he was just playing it safe based on my mood the previous 2 days. But overall it was a nice two days and a few days of relaxing time that we both really enjoyed.

3. Baby Planning - It has been fun talking baby plans, names, colors, etc. It seems that everyone has an opinion on things. From names to finding out the sex to what the kid is going to be when it grows up. Mike and I had a lot of fun looking a cribs and baby furniture online and in stores this week. Mike being the planner even made up a diagram of our 'ideal baby room'. However most of the things that we found to put in that we like are from Pottery Barn the the grand total of the room was like $7000 with out any paint or bedding!!!! However it's fun to plan to dream and think. We have another Dr.'s appointment coming up this week and if there is any news to share we will let people know what it is.

Hug those ones that you love.

2009-01-22T12:44:00.003-06:00

We often times get caught up in the hustle and bustle of our everyday lives and forget to let those around us know just how much we care about them. Unfortunately it can take a tragic event to remind us to tell our loved ones just how much they mean to us.

This past weekend my Aunt Bev passed away unexpectedly while watching a movie at home with her husband. She feel asleep during the movie and didn't wake up. This hit really close to home because she was the age of my parents. Her kids are my sister and my ages.

Each moment that we have on this earth is a gift and we can sometimes take that for granted. I just wanted to tell my family and friends how much you mean to me. I know that many of us are separated by miles and don't get to see each other often. There are those of us that live 10 miles apart but our lives are so busy that it makes it hard to connect at times. What I want to tell each and everyone of you is that I love you and am so blessed to have you in my life.

Getting to know you......I mean me!

2009-01-18T08:18:00.002-06:00

Here is the latest getting to know me. The last one was Christmas style. This one is just your average how well do you know me. Thanks again to Diane for sending this one along.

1. What is your occupation right now? Elementary Music Teacher

2. What color are your socks right now? Not wearing any......just slippers

3. What are you listening to right now? Marshall McPeck on NBC4 telling me about the weather

4. What was the last thing that you ate? A grapefruit, bagel and a glass of chocolate milk

5. Can you drive a stick shift? Only in an emergancy situation!!

6. Last person you spoke to on the phone? Mike

7. Do you like the person who sent this to you? Sure do!!

8. How old are you today? 27

9. What is your favorite sport to watch on TV? Basketball
10. What is your favorite drink? Used to be Mountain Dew.....but no caffeine for me anymore. :(

11. Have you ever dyed your hair? Yes

12. Favourite food? It changes will the week lately. Last week it was chicken.

13. What is the last movie you watched? Madagascar 2

14. Favourite holiday of the year? Christmas

15. How do you vent anger? Cry

16. What was your favorite toy as a child? My cabbage patch kids or my barbies

17. What is your favorite season? Summer and fall.

18. Cherries or Blueberries? Blueberries

19. Do you want your friends to e-mail you back? Yes

20. Who is the most likely to respond? This doesn't really apply to this one now.

21. Who is least likely to respond? See above.

22. Living arrangements? Husband and some buns in the oven!!!
23. When was the last time you cried? All of the time.....most recently last evening!!!

24.What is on the floor of your closet? Shoes....bags...shoes...shoes.....shoes....shoes!!!

25. Who is the friend you have had the longest that you are sending to? Janna

26. What did you do last night? Ate Chinese, watched OSU basketball, slept on the couch.

27. What are you most afraid of? Not being in control of things.

28. Plain, cheese, or spicy hamburgers? Cheeseburg

29. Favourite dog breed? Not really a dog person.

30. Favourite day of the week? Saturday......it's the day that is the least likely to have something on it that we have to do.

31. How many states have you lived in? 1

32. Diamonds or pearls? MOST DEFINITELY DIAMONDS – NOT A PEARL GIRL!

33. What is your favorite flower? Purple Tulips

Reconnecting with Friends

2009-01-12T12:45:00.002-06:00

This Friday Mike and I got to to hang out with the old OC crowd. Although we didn't go to Applebee's for half price appetizers like we did in college, we had a great time just catching up and spending time together.

It is amazing to see where our lives have taken us. We have had relationships some that have lasted some that have not. We've had jobs that have come and gone. Some of us have traveled and seen sights around the world that we thought that we never would. But what amazes me every time that we get together is that we will always have each other. Time may pass, seasons may change, lives may change, but we will always have our friendships.

Thanks girls for being our friends. There are so many new things in store for us all in the coming months and years. Our lives are changing so quickly around us. One thing I know we will always have though is each other.....................(and our love of half price appetizers!)

Baby on Board!

2009-01-10T09:21:00.004-06:00

Well it is official. Our close family and friends know, but we wanted to make it public knowledge that we are expecting!!! Our first official doctor's appointment isn't until the 21st but we are guessing that our due date is going to be around the first part of September.

Not a real bump yet, but a little one!!

Both of us are very excited about the new little Porretta that is on the way, but like most new parents are a little nervous too! The past few weeks has been a roller coaster ride. We have spent time telling family and co-workers, trying to detail as much information as we can, but at this point don't have a whole lot.

A few things that I have realized in the last few weeks.
1. You can always have something to worry about. So instead of spending your time worrying about things to come and what could be, it's better to live in the moment and enjoy the time that you have.

2. I LOVE TO SLEEP. Getting back into the swing of things after the holiday break was tricky. I was sleeping in and taking naps in the afternoon and as a teacher, you can't do that once you go back to work. I've found myself getting pretty tired. Many nights I will come home from work, lay down on the couch and take a nap. Wake up and eat dinner, lay back on the couch. Mike usually wakes me up before he goes up to bed and then we go upstairs, I go back to sleep and wake up in the morning.

3. Relax and let things be what they will be. I realized that however much I want to, I can't control other people's actions. What I can control is my reaction to them. If I let myself get stressed out or upset then they have won. Plus stress isn't good for mommy or the new little one.

I know that there will be so much more that I will learn over the next few months. Mike and I will learn a lot about ourselves, our family and our new life to come. We can't wait to share the latest updates with you and will try to keep you posted as much as possible.

Movie Reviews

2009-01-02T20:52:00.003-06:00

Mike and I have enjoyed having the last few days to do absolutely nothing. We have spent the day sleeping in a little, enjoying making and eating breakfast together and watching the Today Show in the morning. The rest of our days have been spent at the gym......getting back into shape was one of our new year's resolutions, doing shopping (both real and window) as well as catching up on some of the new movies out.

Over the last 4 days we have seen 3 movies! While our reviews might not be as accurate as Ebert and Ropert, we hope that you will enjoy them.

1. Quantum of Solice. The latest of the James Bond movies. While I must say that this James is quite an attractive Bond, this wasn't our favorite Bond movie. The plot was a little lacking of substance and a little long to get off of the ground. While there was the fair share of action, things being blown up and amazing cars the movie lacked in the 'bond girl' area. (This was Mike's observation). Over all a 3 out of 5. A good movie to watch when it comes out on video, but don't feel like you have to rush to the theater to see it.

2. Doubt- This drama details the real life story of a nun who tries to uncover and 'out' a catholic priest in her church that she suspects of inappropriate actions with some of the young boys at the catholic school. While this is not a 'feel good' movie it is one that really makes you think. There has been Oscar buzz about this film for the screen play as well as some of the actors uncluding Phillip Seymor Hoffman and Meryl Streep. Overall we give this a 4 out of 5. I would recommend going to see this movie.....if you have an interest in the subject. If not, I would pass.

3. Madagascar 2- Out of all the movies that we saw this week this one was probably our favorite. We are both suckers for the cute animated movies and often get teased by our friends for it. But, what can we say? Maybe we are both kids at heart. This movie builds on the first one, revealing how Alex the lion got to the zoo in New York. On their way back to the zoo from their last adventure through a series of events the animals find themselves on the wildness reserve in Africa where Alex is from. A series of life lessons are learned by the animals and Alex ends up saving the day in the end. The plot isn't complex, but cute. The laughs are their and the 'adult' jokes that are slipped into the plot made it an enjoyable movie for both the 40 plus 3-10 years olds that were in the theater as well as their parents......and Mike and I (the only people there without a small child in tow). This movie gets a 4 out of 5. If you are looking for a fun feel good movie and you don't mind being the only adult in a movie theater, then this one is for you.

Guitar Hero

2008-12-30T15:14:00.008-06:00

Who knew that Mike was hiding a secret rocker identify? Thanks to a Christmas gift from Robbie, The Poor Etta's band has been formed featuring lead guitar player Michael Porretta. I can tell that I will now have to become a roadie if I want to spend some quality time with my husband. Luckly, i'll be on the road with my sister Janna, because her husband has too become a Guitar Hero fanatic.......all things concidered they could be doing a lot worse things with their free time!

Mike and his guitar......the night we got back from Coshocton!

Jeff and Mike on tour Monday evening.

2nd generation band member.....Carson decided he would be the drummer.

Thoughts from the Holidays

2008-12-29T21:46:00.006-06:00

Mike and I am finally beginning our winter break. The past week has been filled with car rides, trips to relatives, laughter and food. (A whole lot of food.....which might contribute to the fact that we have both packed on a few extra lbs. over the week) We were blessed to be able to spend time with family and friends that we don't get to see on a regular basis.

We spent time in New York with Mike's family. It was nice to catch up with family, see how everyone has changed and to see those people who remain the same year after year. Here are some pictures from the NY trip.

Just a small sampling of the food. This was just part of what was at Susie and Vinnie's Christmas Eve.

The Porretta's Christmas Day, sitting around after a wonderful Italian feast.

Vince, Dom and Mike relaxing and cheesing it up for the camera at Grandma and Grandpa Porrettas.

The day after Christmas we headed back to Ohio and then went to Coshocton to spend time with my side of the family. Dad and Gwen's was on Saturday, followed by the Porteus Christmas......or as Carson called it the 'food party'. On Sunday we spent time at Mom and Tom's. It was great having everyone in one house....including Robbie and Jeni and Grandma Shryock. There were many Christmas memories that we will continue to treasure for years to come.

Tons of presents at Dad and Gwen's. It's fun when there are little ones to spoil!

I think that the Uncles and Dads spent more time setting up the train then JD and Carson did playing with it!

More presents at Mom and Tom's. Mike looks a little overloaded!

The whole 'clan' smiling for the camera.

Today we both got to relax a little in the morning.....well Mike played Guitar Hero....his new favorite Wii Game....and I slept in. Then it was back to the doctor for blood work for me. (I have to say it was nice being away the past week and not being pricked 3-4 times a week). This afternoon we went over to Mike's family in Westerville and exchanged gifts as well as played a great game of Dominoes! (a game we picked up in New York and I have a feeling will be a new Porretta household favorite) This evening the Wells kids all got together for homemade pasta and a Guitar Hero battle. It was so nice getting to spend time with Robbie again. We have always been close siblings....Janna, Robbie and I. Even though Janna and I live 10 miles from each other and remain close it's nice to know that you can be close to your little brother....even when he lives 1000's of miles away in Alaska.

So there is a little sampling of what we did this holiday. In the days to come look for a detailed comparison of New York vs. Coshocton Christmases. I think that you'll find it quite humorous....I know that Mike and I do. I'll try to get that up as soon as possible...but I am going to be selfish the next few days and enjoy spending some quality time with just my husband. It's something that we don't get to do together very often with our busy schedules at work and school and something that we both want/need to do more of. So it might be a few days before the pics and video get up......but they'll be there.

Latest Update

2008-12-25T18:03:00.002-06:00

I know it has been a while since we posted. Things have been busy with school. Mike just finished up finals at DeSales and had a band concert a week ago. I just finished the annual Holiday Show at Chapelfield. It now seems like things can settle down a little bit.

We have been in NY for the last few days spending time with Mike's extended family. While the holidays can be filled with stress it is nice to spend time with those that you love and don't get to see often. We head back to Ohio tomorrow......as long as the weather stays good. Then on Saturday and Sunday are spending some holiday time with my side of the family.

We have taken many pictures and can't wait to share things with you. I'll work on getting those up next week when we are home and can actually start relaxing on our winter break a little. The next week should be a relaxing time for us, which we both really need right now. Life has been busy the last month or so, with lots going on to keep us occupied. We'll keep you all up to date on anything new and exciting in our lives, but for now are looking forward to some much needed Mike and Julie time.

Merry Christmas!

Something I NEVER thought I'd say......

2008-12-08T21:10:00.003-06:00

Here is something that I never thought I'd say. I feel so bloated right now and uncomfortable and couldn't be happier!! I know you are all thinking what?????? But those of you close to me will know what I mean.

The injections that I have been giving myself the last week if definitly working. Two Fridays ago I had my first ultra sound and my largest follicle was about 6 mm. and there were only about 3-4 of them. The next visit showed a bit of an improvement with follicles being at about 7-8 mm. Well, they upped the medication and today when I went in the follicles were averaging around 15-16 mm. and there were a million of them......or so it seemed. Also my estrogen levels went from 39 the first visit to 203 the second visit to 1326 today!!!! Holly Cow.

So back to my being bloated comment from earlier, when I asked the dr. about it today he said that it was pretty normal...especially if the medication is doing it's job. He said 'think about it like this.....it's like you now have two huge grapefruits inside you....if we're doing are job right.' And by the feel of things.....they must be doing their job.

I go back one last time....hopefully....on Wed. for some final tests. Then the rest is up to Mike and I and then....we'll just have to wait to see! So thanks for all of you thoughts and prayers and well wishes sent our way. We appreciate them all so much. Keep saying them for me and pray that I have another 9 months of feeling bloated!

Christmas Cookies

2008-12-07T16:44:00.010-06:00

What holiday season would be complete without a batch of Christmas cookies and an evening of decorating. We have sort of started a tradition( 2 years now...) with the Stanford clan of decorating christmas cut-out together. The evening usually starts with a festive dinner......chinese usually or tacos, and then onto the cookie making. Janna and Mike always complain that my cookies are the 'pretty' ones, while their's lack a certain artistic appeal. I would disagree. I think that Mike'e especially are very artistic....almost Picaso like (he's the one who went crazy and cut off his own ear right.....?) Jeff usually does a couple of cookies and then the boys watch football or play video games.

This time things were a little different because for the first time Carson was old/big enough to help in the decorating. Here are a few of the highlights of the evening.

Carson and 'Daddy' playing a little Wii bowling.

Aunt Julie helping Carson get his apron on.

'Mommy', Aunt Julie and Carson in their aprons. Thanks Grandma Shryock for those, you were a special part of our holiday tradition.

"Mommy" and Carson adding red to yet another cookie.....all by himself may we add.......with 'no help mama'

Uncle Mike decorating the series of 'Fa La La' balls.

Name that tune....with a twist

2008-12-05T11:07:00.005-06:00

This morning started off with another doctor's appointment and bloodwork. That usually means a few things.....lots of waiting and usually having to get 'poked' two or three times because my veins roll away from the needle. (would you blame them?)

But the nurses at the lab made my wait a little better by giving me this Christmas quiz. They are a list of Christmas songs with just the first letter of each word of the first line and you have to figure out the song. For example DTHWBOHFLLLLLLLL is 'Deck the halls with boughs of holly, fa la la la la la la la la'. I must say that I thought that I did a pretty good job, but there were a few that tripped me up. I have the answers, but lets see if you can figure them out.

1. GGROBARWHOHCE
2. HAHJCITBTOTY
3. JHTSBRTTT
4. UOTHTRPOJGOSC
5. OTWOIFBTSISD

Here are a few that I got right away. Let's see if you know them.

1. SBRAYLITLSIG
2. DTTSIAOHOS
3. CROAOFJFNAYN
4. GTIOTMOTHAEWGTIOTMTJCIB
5. WWYAMCWWYAMCWWYAMCAAHNY.

Post your guesses on the comment page. If you want the real answers you have to send me an email!

A Mom and her girls...

2008-11-29T04:13:00.002-06:00

As thanksgiving comes and goes I am so thankful that I am surrounded by wonderful women in my life. I am blessed to have such great role models to look up to. Examples of strength in times when it seems like our world is upside down. Examples of wonderful loving mothers who have the patience of saints. A sister/friend who I can call at all hours of the day with whatever I need to talk/vent/cry about. A mother who has put up with a daughter that takes her on an 'emotional rollercoaster' over the years and still gives her a hug when she walks out the door....no matter what.

Thank you both for being you and for letting me be me. I love you both and maybe...just maybe.....we'll show up to a holiday event not dressed the same!

My thoughts at 4:00......am

2008-11-29T03:51:00.002-06:00

It's 4:00 am and I can't get back to sleep.....so here is what is on my mind..............

Most of you know the struggles that Mike and I have been having when it comes to starting a family.....yesterday we went in for our first blood work and ultrasound tests as we begin hormone treatment. Both of us want this so bad and it seems like everywhere we turn there are babies. Friends are having babies. People we know who are on their 2nd or 3rd....and not trying. While we are so happy for them and wouldn't wish misfortune on anyone it is so hard and I often ask myself.....why me?

Well I have come to a realization. Good things come to those who wait. I know those of you who know me are amazed that I am able to say that! I am realizing that there is something that God wants me/us to learn through this whole process. While we might think that we are ready right as this very moment to bring child into this world it might not be our time. I believe that our time will come......and I am hoping sooner then later!! It is often hard at times to keep up my faith, but I am constantly surrounded by family, friends and co-workers who are a constant support and are always there to remind me of that fact.

So as I continue to go to doctors appointments, get blood drawn, have uncomfortable ultrasounds, and give myself daily shots I know my time will come. And as we go through this Thanksgiving season I am thankful. Thankful that there is technology and doctors now that can help us begin our family. I am thankful for family. When this baby does decide that it's his or her time to enter the world, it is going to have an amazing family to enter into. While it might be a crazy family with many quirks... I know that it is going to be one that it will learn to love and appreciate as Mike and I have over the years. And I think most of all I have a wonderful husband to go through this with. Thank you for going to doctors appointments that you were quite 'ready' for, taking care of 'situations' when I was over my limit and not judging me when I melted down, offering to give me shots when all you really wanted to do was run in the other room and most of all for continuing to love me and care for me through this whole process. I know that I couldn't do this without you.......literally and figuratively! When this little one does decide to make his/her appearance he/she is going to have an amazing dad. Love you.

Getting to Know You.......Christmas Style

2008-11-20T22:07:00.003-06:00

I love getting to read these surveys that people send through email (thanks for sending it my way Diane!!!). It is amazing to me the things that you can find out about people in just a few short minutes. So here is everything that you might already know about me.....and maybe a few suprising facts too!!

1. Wrapping paper or gift bags? Wrapping paper.....gift bags aren't nearly as fun.

2. Real tree or Artificial? Artifical, but may have convinced Mike to get a real one! YEAH!!

3. When do you put up the tree? As soon as possible. I would put it up as soon as it starts to get cold out it I had my way.

4. When do you take the tree down? When I have to go back to school in January.

5. Do you like eggnog? Yuck

6. Favorite gift received as a child? So many.....I would say my cabbage patch Julie (that was her real name!!!) that sang songs.....thank you Janna and my cheese head hat.......thank you Dad!

7. Hardest person to buy for? Robbie....what do you buy the child who can buys pretty much whatever he wants?

8. Easiest person to buy for? Janna

9. Do you have a nativity scene? Yep! 2 actually.....Porteus Nativity Scene made from wood from the farm as well as the typical ceramic one.

10. Mail or email Christmas cards? Mail.....wait till you see the ones this year!!! Hilarious.

11. Worst Christmas gift you ever received? Not possible....I love all gifts.

12.. Favorite Christmas Movie? White Christmas. Hands Down.

13. When do you start shopping for Christmas? Dec. 26th.

14. Have you ever recycled a Christmas present? Yep....but not telling what!!

15. Favorite thing to eat at Christmas? Depends on who's house I am at. But some of the things that top the list are....cheesecake (mom's), chocolates (dad and gwen's), chicken noodle soup (the porrettas of Endicot, NY) and stuffing (the ohio porrettas)

16. Lights on the tree? Yes. White only

17. Favorite Christmas song? Any and all! Did you know that there is a radio station that plays Christmas music 365 days a year? Go 93.3!!

18. Travel at Christmas or stay home? To NY every other year and always out to Coshocton

19. Can you name all of Santa's reindeer's? Of Course.....but only if I get to sing them!

20. Angel on the tree top or a star? Neither.......a Big Red and Gold Bow!

21. Open the presents Christmas Eve or morning? Morning.......but I have usually snooped around looking for them before hand.

22. Most annoying thing about this time of the year? It's so COLD!!!!!!!!!!

23. Favorite ornament theme or color? Gold and Red. We have also started ac collection of Lenox ornaments...thanks to the Porretta Family. Love you Grandma and Grandpa Porretta

24. Favorite place for Christmas dinner? In the risk of incriminating myself I plead the 5th

25. What do you want for Christmas this year? I THINK YOU ALL KNOW THE ANSWER TO THAT! (that was Diane's answer......and I second that motion)

cakes

2008-11-18T19:54:00.005-06:00

So most of you know about my recent venture into the world of cake decorating. By no means are these everything that I have done. Some of these I really like and others like any artist I think could use a little more work. When I get this darn Blogger thing figured out.....I am having issues loading pictures to it....I am going to try and add some more of the more recent cakes.

Beat Michigan Week

2008-11-18T19:47:00.001-06:00

In the craziness of what is OSU vs. Michigan week I thought that I'd share a few of my thoughts.

1. I'm so glad that we went to a game early in the season. (this is the OSU vs. OU game. Thanks David for the fantastic seats!) While I love the bucks and the atmosphere at the stadium is uncomparable to anything else, I am glad that I will be inside in the warmth watching this weeks game.

2. Is it possible to eat too many buckeyes (the yummy candy ones) in one week? The jury is in and the answer is.....................NO!

3. I love college football, but always get so nervous for this game. Even though on paper the two teams shouldn't even be on the same field anything can happen. So here is hoping that our boys play like they can and not to the level of their opponets the way they sometimes do.

Tis the Season

2008-11-16T19:57:00.005-06:00

Ok......everyone who knows me knows just how much I LOVE the holidays. I honestly think that I would be happy to live the 30 some days from Thanksgiving to New Year's over and over....much like Billy Murray in Groundhog Day. Can you believe that I have already purchased Christmas gifts for about 1/4 of the people on my list? I think I like giving gifts as much as giving them..........but maybe not as much as snooping around and trying to figure out what I got!!

All that aside here are the things that I am looking forward to/enjoying already about this upcoming Christmas

1. The Christmas anytime radio station 93.3. Whoever came up with this idea should get some type of award. I love the idea of turning on my car radio and 'jamming' to White Christmas on the way home.

2. Caroling at Easton. If you are in town shopping at Easton anytime after Thanksgiving be on the lookout for the roaming Dicken's Carolers. I am so excited to get to be able to do this. What is not to love....singing (Christmas carols at that), dressing up in fun costumes and shopping malls.....and getting paid to do it all. What can I say I LOVE Christmas. Here is a glimpse of what to be on the watch for. I'm singing most Sat. and Sun. in the evening and afternoon. I'll put the schedule on the blog closer to Dec.

3. Baking Christmas cookies!!!! Alright, this might be one of my other favorite things to do. I could honestly stay in the kitchen all day long and bake. On the list for this year -
1. Buckeyes.....thanks to Mom's fantastic recipe, no one else's can compare
2. Classic cut outs - I love icing and deocrating them.....and Mike likes eating the icing.
3. Cranberry white chocolate chip cookies (for the church cookie walk).
Not sure of what else I am going to make. But will take suggestions and requests if you have any!

4. Family and Friends. As I said before, I am really trying to keep up on old friendships and putting my relationships first. I am very excited to spend some much needed time with family and friends this holiday season. Mike and I are going to spend time in NY with the Porretta Clan this Christmas. It's always an adventure when we go upstate and we haven't been there for about 2 years know. There are always stories to hear, laughs to be had and more food then one should possibly eat in a week. While I can get stressed out about all the drama that happens I am realizing that every family has it's quirks. In reflecting about holidays gone by, I'm coming to grips with the fact that while those quirks drive me CRAZY sometimes, it's also what makes me love my family. I might complain or stress out about the things that I can't control, but when it comes down to it, I don't think that I would change anything or trade them for the world.

The many faces of Julie

2008-11-13T17:44:00.005-06:00

Stress makes you do crazy things. I have discovered that when I am stressed out....about numerous things......the many personalities of Julie come out. Here are a few of the people that you might meet.

1. Crazy exercise Julie. This is me trying to get out all of my frustrations and energy in a very physical way. It might me Billy Blanks leading me through a rigorous Tae Bo work out or it might be hooking up the headphones and hitting the bike trail for a mile or two run. No matter the activity I find that if I am sweating and pushing myself to the max, I am able to push away the stress.

2. Over emotional Julie. This is the Julie that I feel sorry for Mike when she comes around. I get snippy one minute, weepy the next and goofy a minute later. I am SO lucky to have a wonderful husband who sticks by me through all of this. He knows ......for the most part......;o) when to just let me go and rant and when to just walk up and give me a hug. Thanks Mike....I know that I don't say it enough but I love you VERY much.

3. Where is the food Julie. This is the Julie that can down a jar of PB when the stress hits. Oh so yummy at the time....but belly is not feeling so yummy afterwards!!!

While these are just a few of the forms that my stress takes I have realized that when it all comes down to it stress is a part of life and you can't control it. You have to roll with the punches, go with the flow and not let things take control of your life. Life is too short to waste it crying or running all the time, or sweating to the oldies or indulging in that pint of Ben and Jerry's. I would rather spend it in the company of family and friends and the ones that I love.

I haven't done a great job of doing this over the past year......not trying to control the stress I mean. I've neglected spending time with family and friends more then I should have and haven't focused on keeping and maintaining relationships. If that is you.....I apologize and want you to know that I am trying hard to make up for it. Be patient with me.......but I don't have to tell you that.....you always are. Thank you.

Finding Time

2008-10-23T20:35:00.000-05:00

I've discovered that when God created the earth, he forgot about 5 hours. I am constantly running out of time to get the things done that I need to. I think that I would be so much more productive if I could just have 5 more hours.

But in wanting 5 more hours of time I realized that I have these questions.

1. Why is it that when you need feel like you need more time it is never there and when you want the time to pass more quickly it seems to drag on forever?

2. If I had 5 more hours in the day how would I really spend that time? Would I use it to work on things for my job....lesson plans, materials, etc. Would I spend more time with my husband doing things that we love and enjoying our time together as a couple? Or would I take that time for me.....to enjoy the things in life that I love and enjoy doing, but don't get done because I either work on something else or am too tired right now.

3. What is really the most important thing when talking about time? Is it your job, your family, your friends or yourself? This is something that I don't know the answer to and I am still searching to find an answer to. I don't know if I will ever really know the answer to it, but I hope some day I will.

Giving this a try

2008-08-23T21:33:00.000-05:00

In an effort to get the millions of thoughts that run through my brain every day in some type of order, I am attempting to create this blog. I can't promise that I will give you an update everyday or even ever week. I will however try my best to keep you up to date with what is going on with Mike and I and our crazy lives.

I feel like we are both constantly on the go, especially now that school is starting back up. It seems like one of us is always at a rehearsal or a lesson or going to some type of appointment. We often times get so busy that we forget to reflect on those things that are truly important in our lives.....our family, our friends and each other.

My hope is that my blog will cause me to slow down a little bit, enjoy the little things in life and to not sweat the small stuff. So, as I make an attempt to slow down and sort out the millions of thoughts in my head, I invite you to come along for the ride. It won't be the most glamorous, but I hope that at times you will be entertained.