Why Grandparents Rock!

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

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

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?

Snoozing.

Checking out real estate.

Cruisin the streets.

Working on his killer smile. Watch out ladies.

Festival Fun

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!

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?

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.

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

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

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?

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!

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!