Happy Stones

A Quick Summary of our Thanksgiving.

2011-12-30T20:57:00.000-08:00

Mr. and Mrs. Happy Stone start the day with big thankful grins.

Lily and Mimi pose for a photo. I can't find my other child.

The sweet potatoes are cooked to perfection.

As is the turkey. And, here is my other child.

The day is wrapping up, and I still have a bottle of champagne to drink! Again, thankful!

Time.

2011-12-30T20:32:00.000-08:00

Our days are sandwiched between chaotic mornings and busy nighttime routines. But there are always quiet, tender moments to enjoy. Like the first kisses in the morning - sweet with morning breath and cold noses. And warm hugs at night as little bodies drift off to sleep.

No matter what has happened in between, I do not miss the importance of these quiet moments. Moments that allow me to connect with my children in a way far more impactful than any timeout or consequence I can dole out.

I am very aware of the limited time we have with our kids. I am very aware of how quickly that time is passing us by. Ben will be 2 in a couple weeks. Lily starts kindergarten in a few months. A new year is here. The clock is ticking.

I am also very aware that I am not guaranteed anything in this world, least of all more time with my children and family. If I squeak one prayer in each night, it is gratitude for one more night with those I love most. And as I leave my children at school every day, I ask the Lord to bring me home to them. Nothing more, or less. Just to get home for that last hug of the day.....to feel those bodies melt in my arms as they drift off to a peaceful sleep. The kind of sleep I have not known in some time.

So tonight Lord, I thank you for the blessing of Lily and Ben. I have never known such sweetness. I am grateful for Lily's spirit, her cleverness and her mischievous curiosity. I am thankful that we are still her very favorite people. I am blessed everyday with her laughter, spunk and generous affection. She makes my heart smile.

I am grateful for Ben's charismatic charm, funny sense of humor and kind heart. His endless affection and innocent exploration makes me long for more time with him in this wonderful toddler stage. I am so blessed to have a baby to rock at night, and who wants me to hold his hands close to my heart until he drifts to sleep. It's the only way he can fall asleep.....our hands and hearts connected.

I am so blessed.

I know I will forget many of the details of my life now.....smells, sounds, milestones. But I will not forget my blessings. Wether it is for one more day, one more year or one more century -- I know in this very moment that I am blessed.

Ruckus!

2011-08-30T18:18:00.000-07:00

It is a busy time for the happy Stones....all of the normal ruckus plus new activities like ballet classes and mud runs! Sure, why not! In between all of this fun, the kids swing from vines in the pool. Never a dull moment!

First Words

2011-08-24T03:34:00.000-07:00

Where is my flip cam when I need it? Really, I have no idea where it is right now. But the precious moments continue without being captured.......which brings me to the blog this morning.

I enjoyed Lily's first words and baby babble so much. Her tiny voice communicating in this big world was precious. My favorite is still the way she said "I Love You" = "I ya youuuu". I mean, what is better than that?

Fast forward to today and we have another toddler speaking his mind. Similar little voice. Same adorable memories! Ben gives the ABCs a try, sings along with melodies and warms your heart with the best "Halo" = Hello. Precious!

Without even noticing, Lily's babble turned in to real words, real thoughts, real feelings. So I am relishing in the tid bits of language Ben is sharing with us these days! For now I can translate the babble to be whatever I want it to be. But in an instant, he will be telling me exactly what HE wants to say!

Ben's First Words:

Halo - Hello

Bebe - Baby

Waa - Water

Owsigh - Outside

Iss - Izzy

Teeter - Sister

Baba - Grandpa

Ah Duh - All done

Freedom.

2011-08-15T19:32:00.001-07:00

There are not many opportunities to give our kids the freedoms we remember from our childhood. So when I think Ihave found one, I offer it up to them. Running naked in Grandma's backyard. Jumping on the beds. And sitting in the front seat when we are cruising through the neighborhood.

Lily takes swimming lessons at the neighborhood pool. And we have a deal. If she promises to follow the rules during class, she can break a rule on the way home and sit in the front seat. Don't tell the police.

This week, she was a swimming super star! A brave little fish. And of course she rode up front - even sticking her head out the window.

I caught her reflection in the side-view mirror - total joy. Her curls were blowing in the wind. Sun kissing her cheeks. Eyes and mouth wide open, catching the breeze. She was in heaven.

I wish I had more of these moments to give her - where life's simple pleasures are as good as a little fresh air and tunes blaring on the radio. Life feels a little more complicated these days. But the moments do happen - and I am so grateful when I am there to share them with her.

A few moments of freedom thanks to Aunt Connie:

2011-08-04T18:40:00.000-07:00

I am a BIG fan of anything with a drive thru.

Restaurants.

Dry cleaners.

Pharmacies.

Why not a zoo!

About 45 minutes up the road, we found the Lazy Five Ranch, nicknamed the "lazy zoo." Not sure what to expect, we loaded up and headed out for a little adventure. That is exactly what we got, and a belly ache from laughing so hard!

With buckets of food in our hands, we rolled down the windows. Think to yourself, "if you feed them, they will come." Right into your car! Ostriches in the windows, pigs under the car, buffalo nosing at the doors.

The only thing funnier than the chaos in our car, was watching it happen to all the cars in front and in back of us!

Once we finally got the hang of this "zoo" we really enjoyed the close up view of all the animals. Ben and Lily fed them, spoke to them, touched them, kissed them (oh yeah!). We toured the ranch, took in the sites, cleaned up with at least 500 sani-wipes....and headed back to the zoo I call home!

Enjoy the pics -- it was a really fun adventure!

Birthday Week.

2011-07-17T18:48:00.000-07:00

This week will be full of details as we prepare for Lily's birthday. The birthday fairy dropped off this letter tonight, as well as a few gifts for next weekend. She is really on it!

In a new place

2011-07-14T16:35:00.000-07:00

(Buck and kids starting their coin collection)

Aren't we always in a new place? Life doesn't stand still for any of us. Yes, my family is literally in a new place, but no matter the address, everyday seems to bring something new, something to figure out. I am reminding myself to be patient in all this newness. Familiarity and routine will come in time. So will friends and favorite restaurants and a hairdresser I can trust. All in time.

In addition to our new address - that I still have to look up sometimes to remember - the kids bring something new to our world everyday. Lily learning to swim. Ben leaning to talk. And some of my other new favorites:

- kids fighting over toys or chasing the dog in circles around the house

- Lily teaching Ben how to "float" in the bath tub (you have to see it to believe it)

- Ben brushing his teeth and reading "boos" (books)

- Lily coloring masterpieces and trying yoga poses

- Ben rubbing noses with me

- Lily baking muffins

- Ben digging by "bas" in the backyard (bugs)

I never know what I am going to get. Every day is new. And I love it - when I remember to stop and love it!

Change.

2011-07-04T19:09:00.000-07:00

Oh, the pressure of writing my first post from our new home in North Carolina....especially tonight, after a long weekend (heck, a long three months!). I come to the computer tonight only because this fourth of July weekend was full of so many moments that I just have to capture somehow and this is the best place I know to record the history of my family.

I owe you tales of our chaotic move and first days of school and work....but I might never to get to that! Instead, I bring you a few pics (more than a few) from our recent celebrations - Fathers Day at the ballpark, grandma's recent visit, a trip to the kid's museum, backyard fun and fourth of July in Blowing Rock.

As the fireworks go off outside the window, I am thankful that this weekend was full of perfect summer moments for the kids -- pink lemonade, homemade blueberry icing, rolling down hills, running across the lawn with fairy wings and magic wands, itchy skin from playing in the grass. All the good stuff. As for mom and dad, we got a few quiet sips of coffee on Grandma's back porch. What more can I ask for?

Happy birthday America

Marcey Stone, Out.

2011-03-30T05:02:00.000-07:00

Today I will go to my office for the last time. I've dragged this moment out to the very last moment possible because I just don't know how I will really say goodbye. My work - the intangible and tangible of it all - is like a part of me, and extension of who I am. I have walked into the same door, sat in the same chair, pounded away on the same computer for nearly 11 years. I am as comfortable there as I am anywhere. I know the sounds, smells, faces - the back roads, if you will, to get just about anything done. It's a huge part of my story.

Bayfront has been a place of achievement and failure for me. Success and frustration. Awards. Mistakes. Growth and Opportunity. Hallway chit-chat. Closed door meetings. Planning, executing, measuring, perfecting, managing, budgeting, reporting, writing, editing....too many "ings" to list them all! On the good days and bad, this place provided me opportunities to hone my talents and ultimately move on to the next big challenge. For that I am grateful.

Beyond the work that had to be done, there are the people and the memories that will live on in my heart. At last count, twenty people have come and gone in our department during my tenure. Five advertising agencies and countless partners and vendors. They will be part of my virtual scrapbook forever. They were the first to see my engagement ring, wedding photos, sonogram images and to hold my babies. They overheard good news and arguments. They watched me diet and run, only to pig-out on junk food and snacks from the physician's lounge. We've shared many salads from the cafeteria and TMI has been discussed around the round table. Lessons shared on everything from relationships to parenting, fashion, movies, dreams, regrets, the future, the past - and everything in between! I learned the life boils down to one golden rule - "Don't ever do his laundry!"

So in my "Ode to Bayfront" I want to say thank you for helping me to become a successful communicator and the kind of manager I hoped I would be. Thank you for teaching me every discipline in our field - from strategy to creative executions, I've had the chance to do it all. And, thank you for providing me a wonderful collection of people over the years who delivered great work, passion, commitment, professional pride -- and above all else acted excited every time I shared a story about my children! You are my "teal"! Teal is the deal, baby!

A House, Our Home

2011-03-22T17:32:00.000-07:00

With ten days left in our life as we know it, the emotion of the move has finally caught up to me. I've been in robot mode checking logistics off the list, laser focused on the end goal. But a quiet moment in the kids' room set off a chain of tears that I think will continue intermittently over the next several weeks! I knew they would catch up to me. Darn those tears!

So in honor of the emotions behind the tears, I've decided to take to the blog as a place to document all of this craziness......the building up to this huge family transition. So here goes.

Ode to The Townhouse!

They say you never really own your home, that in the end it only belongs to you until it belongs to someone else. That is true. But my house is a home. And every home I've ever lived in is with me for good, in some way. My childhood home, dorm room, sorority house, first condo and this home - 340 fourth street south!

As much as I have complained about the complexities of living in the city, this house had me from hello. I fell for it completely. We've had a love/hate relationship for nearly 7 years, but my heart lives in these walls. We've got a thing going on!

While rocking Ben last night I felt this urge to touch the walls, rest my forehead on the cool surface. If only I could lay my palm on the light green walls, I could absorb the countless number of memories made here. I wanted to drink up the silence of the room and the light pouring through the window. I wanted to be full of the familiar surroundings and smells that have become my life. I wanted to remember everything, like.....

The way the palm trees rustle outside the french doors when a warm breeze blows;

the lights of the city that peek above the tree tops;

the sound of the washer and dryer humming on sunday afternoons;

the creek of the hardwood floor planks - the one right next to the couch;

the warmth of the carpet where Izzy likes to rest;

the sound of little feet running to our bedroom every morning;

the echo of our neighbors' voices through our shared walls;

the tree outside the kid's window, home to two birds and a squirrel;

the closets i share with my children's' toys;

the warmth of our half bath, always the warmest room in the house.

I was bombarded by memories of insignificant moments. Laying in my room reading a book. Painting a table. Baking really bad brownies. Unloading the dishwasher. And then, the big stuff came at me.

The big fight. The big make up. The news that changed my life. The challenges I thought I could not face. The victories I knew I would achieve. The tears that would not stop. The laughter that soon followed. The nights I could not sleep. The naps that filled me up. The planning and figuring-it-out. The aha moments. The packing. The homecomings. The big decisions. The disappointments. The learning curves. The milestones. The email that started all of this.......

I have a spot in this house. Actually outside this house.

At 2 p.m. the sunlight on our courtyard is perfect. I like to sit there and let the sun warm my shoulders, ease away my worries. It's been my little getaway for 7 years. I remember laying there chatting with my sister-in-law one day, totally unaware that I was pregnant with Lily. We found out a few days after. 9 months later I would lay in that spot praying for the sunlight to soak up my post partum depression. I would watch the clouds roll by in a heavy fog. It was on that spot that I stretched after my first three-mile run. And where my husband would leave notes for us written in chalk. This past weekend I sat in a wedge of sunlight on that same spot watching my two naked children play in the hose. It will be right there that I sit and offer up a quiet prayer the morning we leave for North Carolina. It is my spot.

Thank you 340 Fourth Street for holding in all these memories. Oh, if your walls could talk! You welcomed us as newlyweds and as new parents. You sheltered my babies and provided them room to cry and crawl and cackle. You gave us a place to gather for dinner and quiet rooms to rest our heads.

I am taking you in and letting you go. I have a new home to meet. New memories to make. And you have new dwellers moving in soon. Take good care of them, I know you will. And, I will be back.....we still own you, you know!

Birthday Fly By!

2011-02-13T06:09:00.000-08:00

It was a bitter sweet - mostly sweet - day for us as we celebrated Benjamin's first birthday! I know it is cliche, but man this year FLEW by! I have such vivid memories of Ben's first days, weeks and months with us. Unlike the fog that was Lily's infancy, I had a clear head for most of this year....most! What a blessing!

From day four, Ben has been out and about and a little ray of sunshine! I say day four because it was on his fourth day of life that he accompanied Grandma and me to lunch. I told my mom, "lets get out of the house now while the getting is good." I just knew that at any moment the depression would hit or colic would set in. Or he would have problems feeding. Or he'd be diagnoses with reflux.

It never happened.

A total joy ride this has been. Just like his big sister, Ben smiled, cuddled, giggled and charmed his way through this first year. And I anticipate he will take life on with all the same wonderful attributes.

A gentleman, yes. Party boy, I think so. He knew this was HIS day and he lead the celebration!

Happy birthday son. I have enjoyed every single moment of you - from the first days when you warmed my chest to your your first steps into my arms. You make our family complete - and a lot louder, for sure!

A Generous Soul

2011-01-07T18:46:00.000-08:00

Hey Lily.

Did I hurt your feelings?

I'm sorry baby.

Am I paying too much attention to Ben? It is true that I am soaking him up these days. I simply can't help myself.

It's just that your little brother is about to turn one. One. Do you know what that means?

It means his chub will soon melt away. That delicious smell of baby - gone. His gummy smile will be replaced with teeth that need to be brushed. It means he won't want fall asleep under my chin, or grip my shoulder as I carry him through the halls. He will take a step - and then run - and then disappear with friends and girlfriends and.....well, you know. The babble will become words. His dependence will become independence. He wont throw his arms up in celebration when I walk in the room. The diapers will go. The bottles tossed. The toys and highchair and baby equipment off to consignment. The crib passed on to a family awaiting a new baby - a new bundle of chub and babble.

It's all just happening way too fast. I hope you understand that I just need to stare at him for one extra second. Hold him just a little longer. Rock him even though he is fast asleep. Because it will be over soon. This, this phase of my life. This raising of babies will be over soon.

I felt different with you. For you. I was so excited about every milestone that came your way. "Let's do it." "Wasn't that fun." "What's next."

Well now I know what is next. And its all great. But the problem with "what's next" is that it means something else won't happen ever again. And my mother-soul just swells with love and pride and sadness and loss all at the same time. And that familiar lump rests in my throat as I turn the lights off and lay in bed ---- thinking ---- about you two in the next room.

It's not that I love him more. I promise. This need to linger is for you both. I need to cherish all the miracles you have brought to my life, this very day that I will miss with such intensity and the joys I can only imagine ahead.

_____

Tomorrow is Saturday. We have fun plans. I am anxious to hold your hand. Rub noses and swap kisses. And rock you until you fall fast, fast asleep.

Lily - As you have from your first day as my daughter, you have given me room to feel my way through motherhood - even when it comes to the relationship between your brother and me. Thank you for giving me the past few days to endulge. I know it was tough to be so generous, and yet you do it with such grace.

Tomorrow is for us my Lily love. All for us.

Heart Ache.

2011-01-03T10:08:00.000-08:00

Oh Ben. You are breaking my heart. And when boys used to break my heart, I would write them a letter and fold it up and never send it to them. I needed some place to pour all that heartache. But you are a little different. It's the good kind of heart break. The kind of pain that can only come from crazy, huge happiness.

You are a big chunk of crazy, huge happiness. You are so yummy that I think you should be bottled up and spread on a bagel! Benja-yumminess!

So instead of writing a letter and shoving it in my journal for no one to read, ever, here is a very public love fest in honor of you! Just a few of the thousands of reasons I am totally in love with you!

- your sunny blond hair sticks up in the funniest places. I love to peek in on you first thing in the morning to see what is sticking up where!

- You have like 10 teeth. Really. You smile and look like a three-year old. We call you the "man baby".

- Your nose crinkles when you smile and its adorable.

- You say, "bee, bee, bee" and I am not sure if you are saying Ben, bottle, bed, bye-bye or nothing at all. But you don't seem to be frustrated by our lack of understanding.

- You are so chill. Your sister tugs on you. You fell nose-first out of your high chair. I kiss all over your face. And you take it all with a smile.

- You love your new trucks. Somehow you know just what to do with them.

- You give the biggest kisses ever! And lots of them. I love the wet, gooey kisses more than just about anything.

- You point to your Papa every time you see him, like you are saying, "you da man." You guys are buddies already.

- You love your new car seat and sit up like a man-king!

I could just go on and on and on. You make me smile and laugh every day, my love!

So yes, my heart is breaking. But its okay little man. No hard feelings. I'll shed a tear and long for these moments that are going by too fast. But the good news is that I know something even better is waiting for me with every sunrise! You are the first face I see everyday, and I think, "what will my son-shine bring today!"

Print. Cut. And Give Thanks.

2010-12-27T09:50:00.001-08:00

Tis' the season to write thank you notes to those who love me and my family. I thought I would whip up a thank you note for myself - and to share with you. Print on a heavy paper. Cut. Embellish. And get to writing! This design fits a 6x6 square envelope - you can pick them up at Michael's or Jo Ann Fabrics.

I am not sure how to link a PDF to this site yet. So send me an email at marceystone@yahoo.com and I will send you the file. No need to write a note in your email. I hope to make this easy for you......just write "thank you" in the subject line and I will mail it right over to you!

Enjoy!

Jammies, Kisses and Other Stuff

2010-12-14T19:18:00.000-08:00

Ben:

On Monday it was really, really cold here. Ben had on his one-piece flannel jammies. The kind with the feet attached. He was really, really warm. And I really, really didn't want to change him in to school clothes. So, I didn't. He got to do what I dream about doing - he wore PJs all day! I think his teacher was a little miffed. But, I get to be the big boss, and I decided he would wear those cute jammies all day. I loved picking him up in the evening, still in his flannel PJs. It is a treat that only babies can get away with!

Lily:

Could it be the Elf on the Shelf, or maybe she wants to be on Santa's good list....whatever the cause, Lily is a doll baby! Tonight at bedtime she told me that I did not have to give out kisses - it was her turn to kiss me goodnight. I was spoiled with no less than 20 kisses! Lucky me! But we all know that I will sneak in her room later tonight and repay the favor!

Other:

The winter solstice seems to have missed our house. But busy as we are there is no doubt it is Christmas. Our little traditions are taking shape. Maybe some will last forever while others change with time. For this season, we love listening to holiday music and watching classic Christmas movies. We've visited santa and baked cookies. The kids are making decorations at school and Lily performed at the hospital's holiday party. We are spending time with friends and sneaking away for a date night here and there. With cold weather moving in, we are wearing sweaters and indulging with hot chocolate and apple cider. Presents are wrapped, unwrapped and some not even purchased yet. Busy aside, this really is the most wonderful time of the year!

On The Move

2010-11-22T09:34:00.000-08:00

Grainy photos, I know!

But here they are - kids on the move! Lily is showing Ben all kinds of tricks, including some new moves that get him in trouble.....like crawling up the stairs and slamming his fingers in the door. We are getting to use our supply of boo-boo ice again!

In five minutes flat these two can tear up a room. They are quite a team. Luckily they really, really like each other and I am enjoying that for now. They make each other laugh. Belly laugh. Lily says Ben is her best friend! Add Izzy into the mix, and we are out numbered!

Good stuff happening here! I have to tell myself that as I am picking up mess after mess after mess!

Speaking of stuff - have a great Thanksgiving and east lots of good stuff! Fattening stuff! Stuff that tastes so good you have to have seconds and thirds!

2010-11-18T12:12:00.001-08:00

I had a moment last night.

Rocking my son.

I was combing my hands through his hair as I rocked him to sleep. He smelled like a garlic roll because he gnawed on a piece of pizza at dinner. His chubby legs were wrapped around my chubby belly. His head just where I like it - right under my chin. He started combing his fingers through his hair too - and our fingers met. He wrapped his around mine, tangled in his baby fine hair. And just held me there. Our hands resting on his head. And he fell asleep with a little smile across his lips.

Grow up sweet and strong my son. With passion and compassion. And love others with all your heart and you will get so, so, so much in return.

That's what I tell him at night. It took me a while to figure out what I wanted to say to him at night. What does a little boy need to hear from his mother? I'm sure it will change. My message to Lily has changed over the years. But for now, this seems right.

I think that grip on my fingers last night was his way of saying, I hear you mom. I am sweet, strong, passionate and compassionate. I smell like a garlic roll. And I will lay here on your lap for as long as you will hold me.

And, he did. We rocked in silence. Until his sister roared into the bedroom. And, then - well, we started all over again!

Milestone Update

2010-11-08T07:25:00.000-08:00

As the Stone Family publication of record, I have to post a few milestones!

This little puppy is on the move. He started crawling on Halloween. I think walking is only a few weeks away. He crawls to the nearest ledge and pulls himself up. Nosey is an understatement. He is in to EVERYTHING! Able to tear up a room in seconds! His first two teeth came in early October. He is enjoying all kinds of foods - veggies, bread, pizza, fruit. Like his sister, he is open to new foods. And by bath time, he has dinner stuck in his hair and between his toes! Ben is a talker, too. He babbles on and on and on. His only real word to date is "momma" - so I am good with that! He thinks Lily is the "bee's knees!". He laughs at her until he falls over! And the kisses! Oh the kisses. I get the best, slobbery kisses these day! Lucky me:)

Lily is as beautiful as ever. She enjoyed Halloween so much. Parties, costumes and candy - oh my! Her awareness of holidays and festivities just makes everything so much fun. At school she is a super star. She can spell, read a little, count in two languages. She is loving the educational games on our IPad - and her growing mind just tickles me. I am so darn proud of her.

That is the quick update on the kiddos! As you all know, they bring us so much joy.

We took family pictures this past weekend - including Izzy - and it was hysterical. Just getting there was a journey. As we set up for the photos, Izzy was running around. Lily was pulling at her hair. Ben squirming all over the place. A mess. But that is how things are these days, and I love the chaos!

Happy Thanksgiving season to all. I am thankful for all the love you share with us:)

Halloween Caprade!

2010-10-27T13:42:00.000-07:00

If you ever wondered what the tooth fairy looked like, here she is! Ta-dah!

Ready for her school party, Lily had just a second for this photo. She was so EXCITED about the party, should could hardly stand still. Her buddies ran from room to room eating, dancing, playing games, playing drums. She never looked back to see if I was around. Not even once.

Hmmmm.

She is really in to Halloween this year. Her class will come to the hospital on Friday to trick-or-treat. I have been waiting for this since she started school. This year, I get to wait for the parade of kids to stop in our hall. I know she will get a kick out of bringing her friends to "mommy's office". Every morning this week she has asked if it's Friday yet.....because on Friday she will be part of the Halloween "caprade"! That's how she says parade. And, I am not correcting her because it is about the cutest thing I've ever heard!

Happy Halloween!

Cute As Pumpkins

2010-10-25T13:56:00.001-07:00

What is not to love about this time of year? It's the best. And this is why!

Who Needs Vacay Photos?

2010-10-20T13:37:00.001-07:00

Well, I would love to share some with you.

But they are stuck in a camera with no battery power, and no charger to be found. One day, we'll find that charger stuck in between two couch cushions, but for now we will go with these blurry snapshots taken over the weekend.

Lily looking adorable in a dress and tights (we had 20 minutes of cool weather that morning). And Ben chugging his bottle with buddy Liam. These boys are too cute for words!

I'll save vacation stories for when I do get those photos of the camera.

For now, I can tell you the kids are growing like crazy. Buck and I talk about them all the time. They just amaze us.

Lily is loving school. She can spell. She adds and subtracts food from her dinner plate. She has a pet gecko in her classroom. And we talk about poop a lot.

Ben is holding his bottle. He is so close to crawling. I think he says mom (it sounds like this: muuuuuuuuum. muuuuuuuuuuuum. And usually has something to do with wanting to be held). He is 24 pounds and I love every drop of him! His first tooth came in last week and he looks like a jack-o-lantern when he smiles. It is down-right precious!

Fall is here. And, we have a lot to look forward to - and so much to be thankful for! Thanks for loving our family. More photos to come soon, I hope!

We All Need A Break!

2010-09-30T06:57:00.001-07:00

Falling asleep last night I thought to myself - so this is how women just let themselves go. No make up. Wrinkled clothes. Laundry piled to the sky. Now I know how it happens because it is happening to me. I went to work this week looking like a complete mess. I could not find it in me to apply make up, press pants, accessorize. It was beyond what I could physically do. And I didn't even care.

Cook dinner? Huh?

Work out? Forget about it.

Make the bed? Are you crazy?

Vacation is coming just in time! A change of scenery to refresh the mind, body and spirit.

I know I won't totally fall apart. I can't. My kids need me to be in charge of our world. And, I like our world. I just need a break from it.

And, while I did not clean, press or put away this week - I did bathe the kids. And they make me laugh!

Picture Day

2010-09-23T18:43:00.000-07:00

Here is my poor attempt at snapping a picture of the kiddos on school picture day. Boy, I hope the photographer did a better job than me. But, you get the idea. They looked really cute. I wish I could say I shopped and found the perfect matching outfits, but it just so happened that these digs were hanging in the closet. His from a consignment shop. Her top a gift from Grandma. So, it all just worked out!

We are buzzing in to Fall. Lily is counting on her fingers. Subtracting, too. We've even turned her recent potty training regression in to a math lesson. "Yesterday I had two pee-pee accidents. Today I had one. Maybe tomorrow I will have zero.....but if I add one, that will be two again." I am looking for the positive in the situation, so mastering addition is our silver lining!

Ben is so anxious to walk and eat real food. He gets so frustrated when his scooting falls short of his goal, or when he sees us biting into grilled burgers and french fries. Soon enough, my son.

We are 7 days from our Atlanta/Blowing Rock trek and it could not come fast enough. A break is needed by all.

I think about posting funny stories and tid bits several times a day. But alas, this is what you get. Sorry. I am hopeful that slower days lie ahead. Gotta have faith:)

Happy Fall to all!

Crackberry

2010-09-10T19:52:00.000-07:00

I have joined the Blackberry cult. So far, I have avoided becoming a total bent-neck - checking email and text messages at all hours of the day and night. But I have to admit, it is a pretty cool toy! My favorite options is taking photos on the fly and emailing them to family or to myself. Not always the best quality - but great to capture life as it is happening. Here are a few shots over the past couple of days. Some blurry. Some really clear. All really special to me. These kiddos are as good as they get.

If I am addicted to anything - it is them. I miss them so much during the work week. I wish I had more time. One thing this phone will do, once I master all the functions, is make me more efficient. I hope. Even a few more minutes a day, would mean a few more moments with my family. And more blurry photos to share with you!

5.8.2007

2010-08-31T13:56:00.000-07:00

I have been feeling really out of balance lately. A lot on the plate of life. All good things, of course. But a lot of it! So many ideas have been swirling around in my head and the online surfing was making it worse. So much to look at and take in. But then I came across a site that offered free monogram designs.

OK - how much fun is that?

So I thought about what I wanted to make......the kids' names, my monogram, a family crest. Well, there were some limits to what I could do. So instead I decided to make something for me and Buck.

I haven't been focused on that in a while.

So I made a sweet little something to remind me of a commitment we made some 61/2 years ago. I think I will put it somewhere to remind me of our family's center - the mom and dad, the husband and wife, the Buck and Marcey. I think having this front in center - maybe taped to the mirror - will help me connect, reconnect, connect the dots right back to the center of it all.

S - 5.8.2007

check out weddingchicks.com for free downloads:)

Special?

2010-08-24T19:54:00.000-07:00

What I thought might be a hectic phase, is our new normal. The moments I try to be present for seem to fly by at mock speed. So this weekend I picked up the camera and snapped a few photos for no reason at all. Just because every moment is a special one. So here are a few not-so-special, so-very-special photos of my lovies.

Instant Happy

2010-08-18T17:59:00.000-07:00

I'm a little too tired to think of anything clever to write. But I do have a few photos to share, and that's what you really want, right? To see these cutie pies? They are that. Cute. Really cute. It makes my job much easier. These little people can turn fatigue into energy and frustration into giggles in an instant. So in case you need a little energy and a smile, I give you my kids!

Oh Mercy!

2010-08-14T19:56:00.000-07:00

God give me strength! My Lily can be sweet as pie, and bad as the devil! I wish I could just sit back and be entertained. But I have to be the momma! Today, I thought I might leave her on a corner somewhere with a note tied around her neck. I know we'll laugh about this someday, but as for tonight - I am drinking a glass or two of wine!

Rocking her to sleep tonight I say.....Lily,mommy feels so frustrated when you don't listen or share with your friends. Her reply - I know mommy. This is going to be tough!

So, I started laughing now!

Only Child

2010-08-06T04:08:00.001-07:00

While Lily has been away at Grandma Camp, we have been soaking in a little one-on-one time with baby Ben. Who wouldn't enjoy a little more cuddle time with this guy! We sure do miss sister, but she is having a blast running the show at grandma's house. Meanwhile, Ben is loving being an only child. More hugs. Less noise. All the space between mommy and papa in the "big bed". However, we are all looking forward to getting our chaotic home back to normal. We'll be picking up The Goose this weekend! Hang on grandma, backup is on the way!

Three is a charm!

2010-07-31T13:07:00.000-07:00

Happy, happy birthday my Lily love! Where has the time gone? You are a little lady now. There is no baby left in you, baby! You are all girl. And a beautiful girl to be sure. Your beauty is stunning, but your intelligence is what stops me in my tracks. It's the best kind of smart -- smart with charm.

Things are happening for you. Just last week you sat in my lap and we practiced spelling words in a book - you just about did it all by yourself. We were both cheering out loud every time you got it right! I can see it all clicking inside that head of yours and it is so exciting. I asked you how it made you feel to spell those words and you said, "Oh mom, I just can't wait to read!"

This big ol' world is about to open up wide to you! And you are walking in to it like a confident old soul - and a who-hoo girl that likes to celebrate everything from spelling words to the sun coming up! Gosh, I like you so much. And I love you even more.

Your bright eyes make my day every day. And that just doesn't seem to do it justice. I don't really know how to explain this feeling I have for you - it gets bigger and fuller all the time. Its like an energy inside me that fuels my heart! You are amazing - at birth, at three......I can't even begin to imagine how more amazing you will be as the years go by!

We celebrated your birthday with cupcakes at the beach, Chuck-E-Cheese with friends, cake at home.....and, a visit from the birthday fairy!

Thank you for giving us reason to celebrate everyday! We love you Lily! Happy Birthday.

Back From Boca

2010-07-26T19:50:00.000-07:00

This was our sixth year traveling down to Boca Grande. Our first year we were newlyweds. Our third year I was a very pregnant first-time-mom-to-be. Last year I was a few weeks pregnant and didn't have a clue. This year, we had two kiddos and a dog tagging along with us. Seems that it just gets better and better every year!

Fairy Dust

2010-07-24T20:43:00.000-07:00

Lily asked that I write the birthday fairy a note to ask her not to sprinkle fairy dust on her tonight when she visits.....it makes her sneeze. But the birthday fairy could not resist a little dust....she left this letter in Lily's room (with just a sprinkle or two if silver dust!).

Sharing

2010-07-23T10:49:00.000-07:00

Thanks Angela for sharing these cute pictures with us! We had a great time celebrating E's birthday. Nothing much cuter than kids splashing in the pool, chasing a puppy dog, kickin' up sand, eating birthday cake and cheering on a school of dolphins! Lucky kids! Lucky us to be part of such a fun day.

(Ben chose his fingers over cake!)

(Lily had a blast running from beach to pool and back again)

(caught eating some yummy birthday cake)

(watching a school of dolphins play)

(He is all smiles!)

At Play

2010-07-13T21:04:00.000-07:00

The best job in the world is being a mom to Lily and Ben. And one of my greatest pleasures is observing them doing what they do best - playing. I know they have no idea how great it is to be free to invent, pretend, be open, jump high, run fast, make weird noises, talk to random strangers......I envy the freedom that is childhood, but I am so blessed to be at a place in my life where I can appreciate it from a distance. And when they invite me in - to play - I love it more than I can remember as a child! Indulging in that kind of freedom is a treat for adults to relish!

*Playing with the Peterson boys at airplane park.

Hats Off!

2010-07-09T18:45:00.000-07:00

This is Ben's hat - but clearly we all have fun with it! And, not a photo of the little man wearing it. Fourth of July was a wet one. We met grandma and grandpa in Ft. Myers and wished them well on thier cruise to Russia! And, on Sunday we spent many hours in the pool at Mimi's. Lily is turning into a little fish. She loves to swim and gets braver every time she jumps in!

Summer is hot. It's hectic. So far no signs of slowing down. But we do head to Boca Grande for a week and I am really hoping for some R&R. At the very least I am excepting lots of ice cream, salt water, naps and fresh fish. And, I'll be sure to snap a photo of Benjamin wearing his hat!

The Wish I Wish Tonight

2010-06-22T20:33:00.000-07:00

I know I am not alone in my wish. I know we are all asking for the same thing. I know that I am not in charge of the greater plan. But I will still continue to wish, to pray, for an eternity with my children. These smiles are all I need!

Blessed

2010-06-14T21:08:00.000-07:00

I always feel a little tingle in church. Something about the smell, the music, the time to reflect -- it always gets to me. I cried in mass when I found out I was pregnant with both babies. I cried when the priest blessed my belly. I cried when the church volunteer came to my hospital bed to offer communion before both deliveries. I cried this Sunday during one of the songs. A few of the songs.

But I SMILED when Ben's godparents laid their hands on his body as he was baptized as a child of God. His head smelled of holy oils all day. I hated to wash it off. But I know that the holy spirit lives in his heart now and always. And, that.......well, it makes me cry.

It's Hot!

2010-06-09T19:19:00.001-07:00

Summer is here and man is it hot! Here are some photos of the gang enjoying some Florida sunshine!

Have A Great, Long Weekend

2010-05-26T20:11:00.000-07:00

Love, The Stones.

Hustle

2010-05-22T19:22:00.000-07:00

Our morning routine goes something like this:

Ben wakes up mommy way too early.

Mommy feeds Ben, then drinks cup #1 of coffee.

Mommy puts Ben back down and gets dressed - really fast.

Mommy and Ben go upstairs and wake up Lily by singing obnoxious morning songs. It makes her crazy (but she loves it).

Mommy gets Ben dressed. Then he starts to cry.

Lily runs around house. Mommy threatens time out 100 times. Finally, Lily is dressed.

Lily tries to soothe her brother - usually by cramming a pacifier in to his mouth.

Mom ignores all this and tries to pick out a pair of shoes.

We all brush teeth. Why, because I still have another cup of coffee to drink!

Quick breakfast. A few minutes of Nick Jr.

Then we all load up. Down the stairs we go. Please no one trip.

Set alarm. Never enough time to get me and two kids out the door in 30 seconds!

Crap, Izzy ran out the door.

Do over. Set alarm again.

Two kids in to car seats.

Damn, Ben is heavy.

Mom cursing to herself because it is way too hot.

Key in ignition.

AC kickin.

Radio on.

Morning prayers.

Put lipstick on.

Don't run into crazy drivers going the wrong way on the one-way street.

Drop kids off at school. Im sure I forgot something.

Mom back in car.

Breath.

Drive to parking garage. Park on a lower level than I should hoping I dont get in trouble.

Hustle into office.

Hmmmm- a few minutes late.

Grab co-worker and wallet -- off to get third and final cup of coffee.

Seriously? How did I get so many emails over night?

I love weekends.

So Good To Be A Girl

2010-05-21T09:42:00.000-07:00

There is nothing like fun jewelry to make you glad to be a girl! Last night, I hosted a trunk show for a great line of jewelry called Stella & Dot. I fell in love with all of it. So did Lily. It was so hard for her to keep her little fingers off of it. Thankfully they have a girl's line that is equally as cute, and of course I cannot say no to buying something for my little princess-in-training.

I just had to share some photos of my favorites. I have not make my own purchase yet and I need some help. What do you think?

If you want to take a look at more of this eye candy, check out www.stelladot.com/aimeereed.

And if you do make a purchase, enter in my name at check out and get free shipping (for the next five days only)! Who-hoo!

Clean Fun!

2010-05-16T16:29:00.000-07:00

Rub A Dub Dub, My Lovies In The Tub!

mothers day x 2

2010-05-13T19:40:00.000-07:00

I loved celebrating mothers day with two children! I am blessed x 2. Here are a few new pictures of the kiddos. Ben and his classmates threw a fabulous party at school for all the moms and grandmas. And, we enjoyed a relaxing day pool-side at Mimis. Being a mother is as good as it gets....thank you to my mom, and all the special women in my life! You inspire me every day.

Big News From Ben

2010-05-07T05:00:00.000-07:00

Say Cheese!

2010-05-02T06:19:00.000-07:00

For Christmas, Santa brought Papa a membership to a cheese club. So every so often we get a big box of cheese to try out. Last night, Papa hosted a cheese tasting party for us so we could sample the newest delivery. Lily loved all of the cheeses - fancy gouda and a sage-infused white cheese were her favorites. Funny little kid!

First Day

2010-04-29T19:40:00.000-07:00

There is a new groove in the Stone house. We are all back to work and off to school. The mornings are busy and full of laughter and songs (literally). The evenings are slow, but special as we all soak each other up!

Lily helped take some of these pictures during our first week back to work. See - lots of fun goin on in the mornings! Lots of coffee too!

Dear Ben

2010-04-25T07:13:00.000-07:00

Dear Benjamin,

My son. My sunshine. Having you in our life has made me feel totally complete, satisfied, fulfilled, content and at peace. I had no idea months ago how much I would love being a mother to two children. In fact, I wondered if my heart could love anymore. Now I realize I had no need to worry. In the instant that you took your first breath, my heart opened to you and brought you in forever.

The past three months have been the best of my life. I have lived so present in every moment because of you. I know how quickly time will pass, and so I have enjoyed every second of you. Even our middle-of-the night "dates". I actually love the feedings that interrupt our sleep, because it is just a little more time that I can stare into your eyes and snuggle against your soft skin.

I call you my sunshine because you are so bright, so happy, so full of life. Just like the sun, you bring life to our days. You are warm and cheerful and one of God's most beautiful creations.

How is it that I can have so much fun with a little baby that sleeps most of the time? I think that speaks to who you are and will be. You are a joy to be with. Even as an infant there is something special about you that brings out the best in others. I feel it. With you, I am the best version of myself. I want to give to you. I want to laugh with you. I want to see what tomorrow brings.

Wow - how lucky am I? I think this all the time. What did I do to deserve such amazing children? Both you and your sister blow me away! You are amazing. You give so much to us. In the quiet moments I share with you, I try to find the right words to convey my pride in you. I try to give you enough kisses and snuggles to ensure you know your special place in my heart. I try to find the right stories to motivate you to take this world by storm! But mostly I give thanks for you. I'm really quite selfish in those moments, because I rock you a little longer than I need to just so I can steal a few more moments for myself. Even in the middle of the night, in my PJs, darkness all around - you give to me. You give so much to me. Will you ever understand? Can I ever find the right words to explain the joy you give to me?

I am loving in new ways. Thank you for that. Thank you for the way you snuggle into my chest. Thank you for the sideways smile that warms me to my core. Thank you for your gentle disposition. Thank you for the sweet sounds you make when you sleep. Thank you for the way you search for me in a room full of people. Thank you for all of the wonderful moments ahead. I can't wait!

You will be starting school in the morning and I am not sure yet how I am going to walk out of the room. I know with every cell in my body that you will be loved at school. But you and I know that we have a special bond......a little something extra special between the two of us - and man am I going to miss having that to myself all day long. But we will find a new groove and I promise that you will still get all of my love. No scrimping on the hugs and kisses!

You will be in my heart and mind tomorrow, and all my days. My son. My sun. I love you like crazy.

Momma

Bloom Where You Are Planted

2010-04-22T18:58:00.000-07:00

A little look back......

My little seedlings are doing some serious growing!

How did this happen?

2010-04-18T06:28:00.000-07:00

Ben and I visited a friend's new baby. He was one week old. Side by side, I could not get over the difference in our babies - just 9 weeks apart. How did Benjamin become this chubby, strong baby. Wasn't it just yesterday that he was the tiny, dependent little guy weighing only 6 pounds, 13 ounces? Well, actually Marcey is was 9 weeks ago. But it feels like a flash in time. These images just reminded me to soak it all in because my baby, my babies, are growing up so fast!

Milestone update: Ben has found his hands. He giggles. And he is kicking at his toys. Lily is counting in Spanish. She "mastered" donkey kicks in her gymnastic class (I have no idea?). She can spell her name. And they are both happy little kids - the best indication of success in my book!

Easter

2010-04-08T05:56:00.000-07:00

We had a wonderful time in Homestead for Spring Break. We went on many adventures, from the everglades to the zoo and lunch with the ladies. And, we celebrated a special Easter with our newest bunny, Ben. This visit was also super special because the kids got to spend time with thier great-grandmother, "B". Here are some pics from our recent visit:

Spring Blessings

2010-04-07T05:34:00.000-07:00

Our Lord has risen, and Spring is here! My own little chicks are growing and changing every day.

Lily talks non-stop and seems to understand things way beyond her years, such as the cycle of the moon and greater-than/less-than. So she's a smart gal, but one with a wild and wonderful imagination. You never know what story she will tell. She might be going to the moon on a merry-go-round, or riding to a castle on a prince's horse. I love this side of her. I certainly relate to her fanciful stories more than science and math!

As for Ben, well he is just a ball of joy. He has reached many milestones as well recently. He has discovered his hands and tongue, and he is trying to make sounds. If you talk to him, he will imitate you. And he loves to smile! His smile is giant and gets to a part of my heart I never even knew existed!

I just told Buck that these past 9 weeks have been the best of my life and I am certain I mean it. My children are little pieces of heaven. True gifts from God. I know for sure that God thought to himself, "Marcey - I love you. And I am going to give you the greatest gifts of love you could ever wish for....."

I pray that I might have an eternity with my kids....to enjoy their love forever. And, while I know this is not possible, it would be my only wish if I could have just one!

Why Grandparents Rock!

2010-03-19T07:29:00.001-07:00

I found these clips from recent visits with the grandparents. Grandparents are the best!

Which reminds me.....Lily said this in the car the other day:

"Mommy......your job is to do the laundry (gee thanks.). Papa's job is to do the dishes. Ben's job is to poop. Mimi's job is to have candy at her house. Grandpa's job is to take me on walks in the wagon. Grandma's job is to play hide and seek with me in the trees. Grandma B's job is to drive. And, my job is to play with my friends."

Everyone got that?

Sugar, sugar and more sugar:

Learning how to be a diva:

There She Goes

2010-03-17T10:27:00.000-07:00

Lily started "big girl" gymnastics this week. It was bitter sweet watching her walk through the doors into the huge gymnasium. She only looked back once and then she was off to join her class. So it has happened. I am now on the other side of the glass wall. I am waiting with the other moms, and she is twirling away - possibly on her way to find a lifelong passion.

Being a part of these moments makes me so happy - down to my core. But at night, when she is dreary and almost asleep, I just want to kiss her from head to toe and inhale the sweetness that is her youth and innocence. She is perfection. Soft curls. Soft skin. Legs that dont fit in my lap anymore. Arms that drape off the rocking chair when I hold her.

I wouldn't stop her from growing up if I could. But I do indulge when she falls asleep and kiss her from head to toe. I like to think she sleeps just a little better with mamma's love sprinkled all over her!

Pink Bike And A Bubble Bath

2010-03-15T08:19:00.000-07:00

It was a beautiful weekend here in St. Petersburg. We strolled downtown for lunch and spent some quality, and much needed, time around the house. I took a few videos of the kids doing what they do best - entertaining me. From bike riding to bath time, I wish I had every second on film! Time is moving too fast. I adore these children and the happiness they bring me!

I posted a little clip of Ben snoozing, just because it doesn't get much sweeter than a sleeping baby! (note - he passed out in Lily's bed.....don't panic, we did not pass down pink blankets and pillows.)

What Has Ben BEEN Up To?

2010-03-10T05:54:00.000-08:00

Snoozing.

Checking out real estate.

Cruisin the streets.

Working on his killer smile. Watch out ladies.

Festival Fun

2010-03-08T13:18:00.000-08:00

We're a little bit country, so we headed to the Strawberry Festival in Plant City on Sunday. So did everyone else in the tri-county area! Lily had a blast on the rides. She is quite a little dare devil, taking on a mini roller coaster and the swings. What she does not appear to like it the strawberry funnel cake we ate (photo below)!

It was a beautiful day full of memories. And in the crowd of thousands we even ran into Lily's BFF!

PS - Ben is not photographed because he slept through all of the excitement:)

Perfect Score!

2010-03-04T06:28:00.000-08:00

Lily started Gymnastics classes last night and dare I say she is a natural? She took to it like it was second nature. Hand stands, balance beam and swinging from the bars - she was strong and fearless. I was shocked at her strength and her near perfect technique! OK, maybe I am getting carried away ..... it was just a sweet mommy and me class. But we may be on to something here! If not, the sparkly leotard is a keeper and the look on her face when she bounced on the trampoline - priceless!

Say Cheese?

2010-03-04T06:23:00.000-08:00

I am still trying to get a good photo of Benjamin. But every time I click, he cries or moves or my flash fails. But here is the most recent round of attempts.

One Month Down.

2010-02-27T09:17:00.000-08:00

Slow down! How has one month already gone by? I'm actually feeling a little sad that these weeks have gone by so fast. But I am so happy that both my kiddos are doing great and love each other so much. Ben will stop crying if Lily holds him. And, she wins the award for the best big sis! Currently her mission is to keep Ben free of spit up. She is all over it!

Here are a few new photos of the Stone duo.

Growing

2010-02-23T18:06:00.000-08:00

25 days and Ben is getting bigger by the minute. A little guy at birth, he has gained over a pound and is fitting into some of his new duds! Here is a little video of Ben and Lily this evening as we waited for Papa to serve up some pancakes (did you know today was National Pancake Day!).

LOVE

2010-02-21T06:17:00.000-08:00

Grandma Cupid brought this adorable tricycle to Lily for Valentines Day. All I have to say is, "I love this child."

Who is having the best week ever?

2010-02-19T18:19:00.000-08:00

Today is Ben's 3 week birthday! Time is already going way too fast.

He is a darling little boy. Sweet and peaceful. He smells like heaven and his little coo's make my heart flutter. I am taking in every bit of him - his soft skin, sugary breath, the way his fingers curl around mine and the cool touch of his nose to my cheeks. He loves to tuck his head right under my chin. And, just the stroke of my hand on his head puts him to sleep (most of the time).

I'm not just in love with him. I am in love with this whole experience. And savoring it much more than I did the first time. For one, I know now just how quickly this will pass. And, this might be our last baby. So every moment is precious and I am trying to file all of it away in my memory.

Being a mom to two is suiting me just fine. Lily is the best of what childhood has to offer. And Ben is reminding me how precious new life is.....this has been the best three weeks ever!!!!!

Welcome Benjamin Charles!

2010-01-31T08:05:00.000-08:00

Friday, January 29th, 2010, 12:33 p.m. - our world is a better place. Benjamin Charles arrived weighing 6 pounds 14 ounces, 20.5 inches long. (Lily was also born at 12:33 - how is that for a God wink!).

I had a wonderful team with me to help with this little miracle. My wonderful partner Buck. My mom and dad. Buck's mom Mikie. My friend and nurse Tracy. And Dr. Biss. Thank you all for keeping me calm and providing hands to squeeze. Thank you for the laughter that filled the morning and the love that filled the room. And thank you for the wonderful care that got him here and in my arms safely. I am grateful.

There is so much to say when this kind of love fills your heart, for the second time. Its overwhelming really. But the most natural thing I have ever felt. Like he was meant to be all the while.

Ben is a kind little baby. He's soft and sweet and makes wonderful cooing sounds. And he smells delicious!

Lily is a dynamite big sister already! I have got to figure out how to post video because you have to see if for yourself!

So enough of my blabber, on with the photos. Here are some pictures from the big day! I'll be in touch....with stories to tell I am sure!

Preparing for Ben's Birthday

2010-01-26T18:18:00.000-08:00

We are enjoying the last few days leading up to Ben's arrival on Friday - or before. Lily and I had a great time with Nicole and Cooper at the park this weekend. The weather was incredibly beautiful. And our quick lunch plans turned into 4 hours at the park - playing and chit chatting.

My mom arrived on Sunday to help the ship stay afloat this week, and she is going to stay to help us when Ben comes home. Friends have been checking in. Mimi's bags are packed. Our work peers are stepping in for us. We are so lucky. The "village" is coming to our assistance, and we are so grateful.

My nerves are starting to kick in, so I have jotted down some meditations and thoughts on how to keep my cool during this transition. I am reminding myself that transition is the key word - I will soon find a new normal, and I am strong enough to get through whatever comes my way. Maybe things will be just like last time, maybe not. No matter what - I have experience, humor, support and God on my side.

This is will probably be the last entry until Friday......my last entry as Happy Stone, party of three! So stay tuned for photos --- as we introduce our newest Stone....Baby Ben!

We love you all!

We're Ready For You Ben!

2010-01-23T18:59:00.001-08:00

Letters Continued

2010-01-23T18:30:00.000-08:00

Dear Lily Love,

I am taking in these last few days that I have with you as my only child. Although Ben has been hanging out with us for the past 9 months, I've still been able to focus on you completely - with all my heart, my energy and my attention. I know things are about the change and I just want to tell you a few things about the past three years - the best years of my life.

Finding out that I was pregnant with you was a thrill I so anticipated. From day one, you were a sweet baby. You were kind to me during pregnancy and I enjoyed every moment, every pound, every change in my body. I loved being pregnant with you. It was a miracle. And the delivery was the most amazing thing I have ever done or been a part of. AMAZING. Your father and I still talk about it.....you had so much energy and literally pushed yourself into this world. I felt such a connection with you as we worked together to get you here - and the second you joined our world, breathing our air - life changed. Again, a miracle. I remember telling the nurses that labor was "fun". Maybe I was a little crazy in that moment, but every moment since then has been fun, so why not labor?

Since then, you have filled every day with more love than I ever thought possible. You were a kind baby - so patient with my roller-coaster emotions, so thoughtful and generous with your affection. You taught me how to be a mother - I truly believe that I learned more than you did in those first few months. Like an old soul, you helped me through my transition in to parenthood with gentle compassion. God gave you to me because he knew you would take care of me - a funny twist on things.

All the milestones and firsts were thrilling to experience with you. And, the pride I feel for you is overflowing - all the time. Every day you give us reason to be proud of the person you are becoming. And, you know what is really cool? I really like you. I do. I think you are super cool. I want to hang out with you because you make me a better person, and I love looking at the world through your eyes.

It is an absolute honor and blessing to be your mom. Sometimes I really can't believe how lucky I am to have you. Thank you for choosing me. I am the luckiest mom in the world.

Thank you for allowing me to make mistakes. For getting it wrong sometimes. For your forgiveness when I really mess it up. And, thank you for those "aha" moments when I get it right. I learn so much about me through you. You have made me a better person and I can only hope that I can influence you in the same ways.

Most of all, thank you for the hugs and kisses and "I love you's". Thank you for the hundreds of nights we've rocked together in the rocking chair. Thank you for holding my hands even though you are old enough to walk alone. Thank you for running into my arms everyday at school. Thank you for telling me that I am beautiful.

I am going to do my best to make this transition positive for all of us. We have so much to be excited about. But I will deeply miss what we have now - just you and me. For certain, our lives are about to get even better asa we make room for one more gift......good thing we both like presents.

I promise I will always find a special moment of time for just the two of us - everyday - for girl talk and snuggles. And I will never, never forget how you changed my life.

I love you angel,

Mommy

Letters To My Family

2010-01-20T08:00:00.000-08:00

Since this is our family record of sorts, and I have not been very good at keeping baby books and scrapbooks up to date, please indulge me this next few posts to write a little something to my family.......starting with......

Dearest Buck,

Thank you for the blessing of our family. The love in our home is everything I hoped it would be when we married almost five years ago. We've traded in spontaneity for structure and routine these days, but I couldn't image it any other way. It is such a warm and happy home for Lily - and for Ben. Our children know they are loved and cared for, and I couldn't ask for anything more.

Your dedication to Lily is honorable. And the commitment you feel for taking care of us is evident in all of the big and little things you do for us.

Dinner is always ready when we come home. Dishes are always done. Bills are paid. Investments taken care of. Gas in the car. Izzy walked and bathed. Garbage out. Toilets clean. Good morning kisses and cookies at night. Ice cream runs just for the fun of it. Double checking to be sure Lily is fast asleep. Indulging my silly requests. Warms toes touching at night.

You are appreciated and loved very much. I can't wait to see the look on your face when you hold your darling son for the first time. He will complete our family - even though we feel so whole already. God has blessed us with so much, and I know we both feel the importance of expressing our gratitude every night when we say our prayers.

I feel equally inspired to thank you for being a wonderful husband and father. We are at the beginning our our journey together as husband and wife, and as a family. I am full of pride at what we have accomplished together and what lies ahead -- all of it: the good, the bad and the ugly.

Thank you for all of the hard work and preparations you have made for us over the past few weeks. Your efforts are appreciated more than you know.

I look forward to another miraculous moment as we greet our son very soon. Sharing Lily's birth with you was one of the highlights of my life. Can you believe we are so blessed to get the chance to do it again? To fell his first breath, hear his first cry and to comfort him as he adjusts to our world. I am so ready to share that moment with you.

I love you. We all love you!
M1

We've "Ben" Jammin

2010-01-20T06:52:00.000-08:00

With Ben's due date just two weeks away, the Stone clan has been busy preparing for his arrival! It has been so nice to have a few weeks to fully concentrate on him. It makes us feel connected to him even more.

His crib is up. Bedding on. Clothes and blankets washed and folded. Toys cleaned. Bottles on stand by in case we need them. House decluttered. Drawers reorganized. Storage unit full to the brim with stuff we've moved out of the house. To-do lists crossed off.

Carpets steam cleaned. Isabelle groomed. Mommy groomed. Manicure and pedicure appointment set. Monograms done.

Can there be anything left to do? Oh, I am sure I have a few things in mind!

But all in all, our hearts and our home is ready for our little gem - Benjamin. We are ready when you are, little love!

Let's Go To The Movies

2010-01-09T19:02:00.001-08:00

Heading out the door to go to Lily's first movie at the theatre, she was singing the song from Annie, "Let's go to the movies.....let's go see the stars!"

And, she was working up just how she would ask the concessionaire for blue popcorn.

Princess dress, shoes and crown on, we went to see The Princess & The Frog. Real theatre. Real popcorn and snacks. Real seat in the dark.

And Lily loved it. Im not surprised. She is all about the experience!

The previews were ridiculously long. I thought we'd loose her. But she hung in, munching on the popcorn - trying to sneak a sip of Papa's Coke. Once the movie started she was hooked. Although she crawled into my lap right away, her eyes stayed fixed on the big screen. It was really precious.

On the way out - and the weeks since then - she tells everyone that we went to her first movie. "Hey, I went to my first movie....The Princess & The Frog. I want to go to another first movie!"

I will have to keep an eye out for another cute movie. Until then, she talks about the frog prince. Hope this doesn't spoil it, but the frog gets his princess! Just they kind of ending I like!

Over, Under and Around

2010-01-09T16:42:00.000-08:00

Yes, I am bragging. I think.

I am not sure what a two-year-old should know and understand at this age. But I think this is pretty good stuff.

Lily will say - I jump over the laundry. I walk around the spill. I crawl under the table. The box is on top of the car. Up. Down. Left and right. And, she gets it right.

She also understands the concept of time. Gone are the days when I can put her down for a nap early. She is quick to tell me...."mom, its too soon for a nap."

Plan spoiled!

She is such a little smarty pants....makes a momma proud. Also makes a momma think a lot harder when I have to trick her in to something!

Still Catching Up For 2009

2010-01-03T18:09:00.000-08:00

Whew!

What a few weeks. It has been a holiday marathon from Thanksgiving until New Years. Every memory a blessing, but it always feels good to get back in to a normal rhythm.

It goes without saying that this holiday was super special. Lily was a trip! A hoot! A blast!

She was in to everything - Santa, lights, the Christmas tree, Rudolph, baking, wrapping paper and bows. I was totally amazed a how fully she understood Christmas. With the help of an advent calendar she even started to grasp the true meaning behind the the holiday - the birth of Jesus.

We had a wonderful time celebrating with Mimi and Pappy during "early Christmas". And then with Grandma and Grandpa.We held on to many established traditions, like Santa and Pizza with Karen, Ava and Evan. And started new traditions like movies and games on New Years Eve.

But more than anything, we were blessed to have another holiday season together. We continue to grow stronger as a family, adding to our treasure chest of memories and blessings. This year we celebrated Lily's wide-eyed view of the world and looked ahead to Benjamin's arrival - making our family even more full and complete.

Here are just a few photos from the past month. I wish I could share every story behind the pictures! It was even better in person:)

Be Back ASAP!

2009-12-28T11:05:00.000-08:00

Dear Readers - I am so sorry for the delay on getting recent Lily pics up on the blog! In addition to being overwhelmed with work and the holidays (and, oh yeah, last minute planning for baby ben), my camera is experiencing technical difficulties.

Why do I have such issues with my cameras? Now, the USB cord is not working. Go figure.

So, give me a day or two to get to the store - and I will catch you up!

So many stories to share!

Favorite Things

2009-12-02T09:48:00.000-08:00

Lily's grandmothers sure do know how to spoil her right! As Mimi says, "she can be spoiled as long as she isn't rotten!".

This week she received some of her favorite things from Grandma and Mimi -- all things pink and sparkly! Two tiaras, Christmas gowns that twirl, fancy shoes that go "click, click, click," a cupcake tutu dress, princess movie, more lipstick, pink princess sippy cups - the list goes on!

As you can see from these photos, she is loving all new her gifts. We had to pry the dresses off her, and she wears a crown to school every day. The refreshing news is that she shares the crown with her classroom friends. What a sweet princess!

Enjoy!

What's Cookin"

2009-11-16T17:51:00.000-08:00

We're just working on a few last minute additions to the Thanksgiving menu. Lily here is contributing her newest creation - chocolate milk with blueberries, salt and Kool-aid. Sounds better than canned cranberry sauce, if you ask me!

PS - Chef Lily totally endorses cooking with your fanny showing, and licking the bowl!

Brace Yourself

2009-11-12T12:27:00.000-08:00

Ha,ha. Pretty clever huh?

We are 12 weeks from the big day when baby Benjamin joins our clan and things are starting to happen, including the SLOW process of my braces coming off. The top came off last week and I have a promise that the bottom will come off before baby is born. I was happy to accept any progress!

Baby crib has been ordered and bedding. Good start.

I made a little room for more clothes and blankets and toys and bottles and shoes and stuff.

This is an exciting and overwhelming preparation stage. But we are taking it on wearing our biggest SMILES!

We're Not In Kansas Anymore, Toto!

2009-11-01T16:00:00.000-08:00

Or...Homestead, I should say. My parents neighborhood completely transformed into a spooky, party wonderland on Halloween! We had a blast walking house-to-house just to see what was next. Some houses provided DJ's and dance music, others were haunted houses complete with talking trees. We got original treats like popsicles - perfect for the not-so-cool fall evening. I was totally amazed by the creativity and family-fun spirit! And, of course, I loved watching Lily take it all in. She was a beautiful Dorothy and we had a great time sharing with close friends!

It was a memorable Halloween! The first of many holidays that I think Lily is starting to get the hang of.

Snapshots

2009-10-25T12:33:00.000-07:00

Lily's social calendar has been very busy this week. Giving me plenty of opportunities to snap photos and marvel in her cuteness! She seems to be enjoying Fall as much as all of us -- cooler weather, comfort food in the oven, lots of reasons to get outdoors.

Here are a few pics from her week -- swimming with Cooper, Halloween party at school, Times Reading Festival downtown, Church and baking caramel apples!

I'm just so glad she lets me hang out with her:)

Falling For Fall

2009-10-18T18:19:00.001-07:00

Wow, what an amazing weekend.

Fall weather rolled in and we enjoyed every minute of it! The week was hectic, so Friday was an early night. Mother Nature and my baby were so kind in the morning. A cool breeze through the windows and a baby sleeping-in made for a very happy and rested momma!

Saturday we joined the Hays at the Pumpkin Festival and took in all the treats of a country fair -- snow cones, elephant ears, bounce houses and a petty zoo, of course! The small town girl in me LOVED it! And I could not stop snapping photos of Lily. She was a precious site among all the pumpkins. Watching her run free always brings me such joy. Ahhhh - she is a happy, happy girl. What more could I ask for.

Sunday was a day of rest, indeed. We skipped all commitments and vowed to stay in PJs until after lunch and naps! And the only out-of-house trip was a quickie to Target to pick up our traditional Fall candle.....and a swing through the dollar section, of course!

BBQ chicken and a new veggie recipe later, here we are -- back in our PJs. Just the way I like it.

Happy Monday-eve to us all!

Put It On My Calendar

2009-10-15T18:58:00.000-07:00

Lily tells me the other day, "momma I want to go to chucky cheese."

"Huh," I said in reply. "How do you know about chucky cheese?"

"Trenton goes to chucky cheese."

What could Trenton possibly tell you about chucky cheese? You guys can put together about 6 words at a time. Was is, "I eat pizza at chucky cheese." Or, maybe "I play games at chucky cheese."

Whatever the conversation was, it got Lily thinking. And chucky cheese is all the rage these days. Keep in mind, she is TWO!

So, pappa and I have scheduled it in, along with the other milestone attractions we probably need to get to -- the zoo, the children's museum, princesses on ice...and the big D (Disney) in due time.

We literally pulled up our work calendars and penciled it in. I hope "scheduling' her childhood memories is an okay thing to do. How else will it all get done?

And really, she doesn't need to know the logistics behind this weekend's pumpkin patch trip, or the pizza/pool party we scheduled next week. All she needs to do is show up and make memories.......and win lots of tickets at the skiball machine at chucky cheese!

Mamma wants a prize!

Starting Tomorrow.....

2009-10-15T18:43:00.001-07:00

With 14 weeks left to go, I got quite the talking to from my OB/GYN today.

I gained too much weight this month for her liking.

While most people tell me I look small for my gestation, I have to admit, I have been a mega indulger this pregnancy. I eat ALL the time. And, not such good stuff. Carbs galore! Lots of cereal. Ice cream - check!

And the 20-minute exercise program I was going to commit to, well - not so much.

So starting tomorrow, I am on a mission to do what is right for my body and baby. I will eat less, and more of the good stuff. And I will work in those 20 minute cardio videos. My goal is to gain only 1 pound per week.

Wow - where will another 14 pounds go on this body? I really thought my back end and hips were maxed out! This should be pretty!

For good measure, I finished off the ice cream in the freezer tonight. And just to get rid of temptation, I might as well eat the last of the choco chip cookies.

And, tomorrow will be a new day.

Snip

2009-10-12T18:53:00.000-07:00

Since this blog is Lily's baby book, I have to note her very first haircut.

Lily walked right in, purse and lipstick in hand....ready for hair and make-up! Zoo Cuts took care of the hair...Lily did her own make-up!

What a cute place......toys and movies for kids. Little cars to sit in. Even manicures for the moms. (A little weird that they offer highlights for girls.....but I wont get on my soapbox here).

Enjoy a few pics from the milestone day:

Taking A Walk

2009-10-12T18:42:00.000-07:00

Lily and I took a walk around our neighborhood and this is what we saw.....

- boats bobbing in the water

- a quiet USF campus

- kettle corn and fresh lemonade at the market

- books at the corner bookstore

- a growing skyline

This time of year is always fun downtown. It is when we feel blessed to be close to the action -- garage or no garage:)

Crashed

2009-09-30T13:41:00.000-07:00

Yesterday Lily was a pill. She cried all morning. Nothing made her happy. I mad her mad. She hated her dress and her shoes.

I asked her on the way to school, "honey why are you so upset today?"

To which she SHOUTED, "Momma.....I am soooooo tired!".

Oh honey, I get it!

That night, I crashed on the couch around 9:15p.m. and woke up around midnight with the TV blaring, lights on.

Darn. I had planned a productive evening. Thank you notes will get done another night, I guess.

Today, we slept in a little and started the day feeling refreshed and a tad sassy!

Can't you tell?

Weekend Wrap Up

2009-09-20T16:50:00.000-07:00

Had lots of fun this weekend. Pictures say it best.

PS - Lily does have a mom although she never appears in any photos!

Doing It The Old Fashion Way

2009-09-18T12:24:00.001-07:00

Lily and cousin Georgia

Lily hurt a friend on Wednesday and had to be punished. No popsicle after dinner. The child was heartbroken and did everything in her power to break my will. Despite many close calls, I held my ground and Lily went to bed with no treat.

Why was this so hard? Because she was authentically distraught over her "bad decisions" and did not understand (or tried to fool me) why saying "I'm sorry" was not enough this time.

The answer was that our poor choices often lead to painful consequences, and that these tough lessons remind us to make better choices in the future ---- translated for a two-year-old, of course.

MY lesson in all this was that consistency, and standing firm really does work.

That night, Lily was devising a plan to get her popsicle back.

"Mum, I be nice tomorrow and I eat popsicle."

The next morning, "Mum, today I be nice at school and I get popsicle."

Two days later, "Mum, Jack made bad choices at school. He gets NO popsicle."

While discipline is hard, hard on a parent's heart for sure, it is the right thing to do for our kids. They learn by the boundaries we set......and motivated by our actions, they make their own plans to right the wrong, and make tomorrow a better day.

Shopping For Four!

2009-09-12T16:32:00.000-07:00

What else is there to do when it is raining outside -- ice cream and Target! We strolled out for a little sugar and shopping. What a diverse cart we had at check out:

1 USB port

1 hello kitty sticker book

1 Dorothy/Wizard of Oz costume

1 pair of red sparkly slippers

1 blue blankie

3 newborn onsies, blue of course

2 maternity tops

1 bottle of bath soap

shaving cream, face soap

and a pack of filing folders

So this is what our family of four looks like in a shopping cart! Im in love!

PS - finished up with dinner at a local indian restaurant.....Lily loved it! She is such a character! We all smell like yummy curry! Bath-time!

Oh Boy! What a Blessing!

2009-09-11T11:07:00.000-07:00

From the time I took the pregnancy test, until yesterday at 4:04 p.m., I was completely convinced that we were having another baby girl. I only thought of baby girl names and how I would wash and reuse Lily's beautiful clothes and blankets. I only thought about two princesses at Halloween and how I would enforce the "girl code of ethics" with a set of sisters. I was convinced.

I am certain that deep, deep down I was hoping for a little boy. But I did not let my heart or imagination go there. Instead, I created a future in my mind of me and my two girls!

Buck, too.

So imagine our surprise when the ultrasound tech landed right on this image.....she didn't even have to go looking for it. There he was, legs open, proving his mama wrong!

My body started to tremble with complete disbelief. "It's a boy!". No.....show me again, and again, and again.

Buck - a smile from ear to ear.

The tech pulled us in from our gloating and carrying-on to remind us that we had other anatomy to look at -- you know, the heart, kidneys, fingers and toes.....all perfect.

We are so excited that our princess Lily will remain queen of the castle, and that a handsome prince will soon join her! We are so blessed to experience the best of both worlds! Sugar and spice & toads, snails and puppy dog tails!

Slide

2009-09-08T15:58:00.000-07:00

Lily's favorite spot is a playground, especially the slide. For those of you who know her well, you know why! These pics are from the new park in Homestead. She enjoyed jumping and climbing and running around....all in a sweet little dress. Dresses are not so great for sliding....too much skin contact.....slows you down! Note to mom!

There was actually a nice breeze....maybe a sign of fall to come?

Boots

2009-08-31T15:39:00.000-07:00

While breezing through Target' last night we literally ran into a display for these Hello Kitty rain boots. Miss Lily just had to have them. She took off her sandals, threw them into the basket and put these on. They haven't come off yet. She even took a bath in them!

Lily Tricks

2009-08-19T13:20:00.000-07:00

Back to every day life. I like it this way. I know what to expect. Sort of.

So Lily is doing all kinds of things that make me stop, watch, and think, "where did you learn that." She is not doing cartwheels or solving quadratic equations. But, who taught her how to peel a banana? Not me. But she knows how to do it.

Or how about:

getting water from the fridge by herself.
buckling her own car seat.
adjusting the volume on the TV.
sorting through the snack bin to find just the right treat.
Opening the packaging to a band-aid. (I struggle with that!)

She is such a little person and it brings us such joy to watch her excelling at life. Peeling bananas will be math formulas before we know it. For now, I am taking in the little things -- like watching her figure out a new pair of shoes or putting her Barbie's hair in a ponytail!

End of Summer

2009-08-16T18:58:00.000-07:00

We are done traveling, and happy to be home. It is Sunday night and the laundry is done and put away. Suitcases unpacked and tucked under the bed. Photos uploaded. Emails answered. Fridge re-stocked.

We are settled back in and ready to nest for the next five months until baby Stone #2 comes home!

We had a wonderful trip to Blowing Rock. Lily had a blast - I still can't get over the personality in this child! She owns every situation she is in! Here are some photos from the last of our travels:

Heading to the Moutains

2009-08-04T08:30:00.000-07:00

The end of summer for us will be this last get away to the mountains. Every year we sneak away for a week in Blowing Rock, a place where my family has vacationed for a couple of generations. We are lucky to have family in this beautiful town so that we can take advantage of amazing scenery, a sweet downtown with a park and ice cream shop, and a big back porch at Grandma's where we snack on treats and enjoy an evening fire.

Buck and I are so happy that Lily will have memories of the mountains. We hope this to be a tradition that continues for a long time.

Family - we look forward to seeing you this week. And I'll be sure to post more when we get home.

Then we are on a travel hiatus until Baby #2 joins us.

Cupcake Birthday!

2009-07-30T18:40:00.000-07:00

Sweet Lily enjoyed a sweet birthday weekend - full of cupcakes, cupcakes and more cupcakes! Beyond the sugar, she ever wore cupcake PJ's and received a new cupcake purse! Thank you to everyone who thought of our sweet little girl on her second birthday. She loved opening all of her mail and tearing through bags and packages. She is getting the hang of it!

To our sweet Lily - you are the sugar and spice of our lives. We hope your life continues to be as happy and full of joy as the past two years. You are a gift that never stops giving to us. You are our joy, pride and source of inspiration every day. On your birthday you receive gifts as recognition for the many, many gifts you give the world everyday. Thank you for choosing us to be your parents. We love you beyond words little angle!

Vacation Part II: Alabama

2009-07-28T17:56:00.001-07:00

We had a wonderful time visiting family in Alabama. Lily met her cousin Stone and they had so much fun together (between the "mine, mine, mine" episodes). They were wet, naked and running around the acres of trees and gardens at Aunt Pat and Uncle Wayne's house, just like toddlers should. I was happy to see her doing many of the things I remember doing as a tot - drinking from the hose, sliding around in a plastic swimming pool and eating popsicles on the back porch steps!

Here are a few photos (more than a few) of our trip. Thank you Jenny, Aunt Pat and Uncle Wayne!

Look at that nose!

2009-07-28T10:44:00.001-07:00

It goes without saying that the primary content of this site is all about Lily! Well, times are a changing and I am figuring out how to make room for two loves - on this site, in our home, in my heart. The truth is, it was very hard to imagine sharing my heart and arms and lap with more than one baby. But when I saw this image at our last ultrasound it all felt so real and totally right.

Now, the two car seats in the backseat don't seem so strange and foreign.

I have my list going - what I need for baby #2. I was wondering when the nesting would kick in. Bassinet, new bottles, the missing piece to the swing......oh, and I really want to try one of those baby slings this time.

This time.

I like it. Another magical opportunity to create life - and then love and nurture it. Approach it with less fear and more confidence. A chance to create a brother or sister for Lily. The chance to be a mom to two beautiful children.

6 months to go. And, just look at that nose!

Vacation Part I: SGI

2009-07-20T17:50:00.001-07:00

Papa Salty did not disappoint. Upon our arrival, he had a cold Yohoo waiting for Lily. To which Lily replied, "I love a Yohoo!". She enjoyed a few firsts on the island, including steering a golf cart, sleeping in a toddler bed, eating blue crabs (with old bay!) and dipping her toes in the ocean's surf. Prior to this trip, she never had quite enough courage to walk into the ocean on her own!

Thanks Papa Salty for a nice visit. We'll see you soon.

While We're Away

2009-07-10T19:45:00.000-07:00

We are off to Papa Salty's at the beach and then Alabama for the week. A nice break for the overworked and weary in our house! I am so looking forward to a whole week with Lily and spending some time in her world - it is a great place to be. She makes fun out of everything - the stairs, a short car ride, even bedtime is fun in her world. I love disappearing in it when I am with her.

Here are some pictures from this week. The two sides of Lily! Miss Priss and Miss Get-er-done!

She dressed herself in these pink boots and the headband! And opted for no clothes! She is a fashion icon already!

Firecracker, Firecracker....Boom, Boom, Boom

2009-07-05T11:08:00.001-07:00

Cupcake Bandit

2009-07-05T11:00:00.000-07:00

If you are missing a cupcake from your countertop, Lily may be the bandit! Chocolate, vanilla, sprinkles or colored frosting - she loves them all! No trip to the grocery store is complete without sampling the cupcake selection in the bakery. Maybe it is true, you are what you eat -- because she is soooo sweet!

A few pics of Cupcake Lily and her cupcake friends!