The Rolfe's

Wishing I could freeze time~~

2011-08-09T21:09:00.004-04:00

I wish I could just slow everything down. Our little girls are growing up too fast. Today as we sat on the couch all snuggled in a blanket watching "Dino Dan" together it dawned on me that I am their favorite person to be with. To them, Mommy and Daddy are everything (please realize Daddy hung the moon and when he is here, I am second). Some days like today make me think of the not so distant future, when other people in their life will begin to take our place. As I was holding my babies and smelling their hair, and kissing those sweet little faces, it dawned on me how truly lucky and blessed I am to have them !! Happy, healthy angels that just want to hang out with me and Daddy !

Maddie will start school soon and I cry almost daily when I realize how much I am going to miss her little face and her sweet voice. I am angry and resentful that I have to share her, she is mine. I am sure other Mom's have felt this way too and I know she is ready, I am not sure I will ever be.

How can let her out into this big mean world? Will I have given her all the knowledge and strength to be a good person and to trust the right people? When she was a baby this never really bothered me because I never, never let her out of my sight !! But now I worry. I worry. But, that is the job of the Mother. Wearing your heart outside of you body.....and trusting that you have taught them well.

My baby is reading !!

2011-03-29T08:20:00.004-04:00

This is so crazy to me, Maddie is reading !! And to say I am excited is an understatement. Yes our 5 year old can do many things to help herself, but reading for some reason when I think about it makes me cry !! For me, it's something that will never be taken from her ! She now has the ability to learn ANYTHING she wants too !! She can now read signs and travel and read what she sees !! I am a little excited ! No one can ever tell her she is illiterate.

My Angels

2011-03-08T20:23:00.007-05:00

Capturing these little moments in time...priceless.

Nicole Montero Photography

2011-01-28T21:54:00.003-05:00

My amazing and talented Niece Nicole had a photo shoot at my parents ranch in Nevada. She is amazing, and really captured "us". I spent many days playing along the river bank as a child, and in my heart I am a country girl, so to see Maddison in her cowgirl boots down on the river was priceless ! Thanks again Nicole, next time Jason will be with us ! Here are some of my favorites !!

Thanksgiving 2010

2010-11-26T00:11:00.003-05:00

So today is the official Thanksgiving, but due to Jason's (&%$#@ up schedule, we are having our dinner tomorrow and I am happy that he will get Sat. and Sun off. Considering he has been on 7 consecutive days of night shift and I think his last day off was about 17 days ago? Not sure on that, the days just run together and we miss him so much. I really never thought this was going to be so hard and so lonely....

It's midnight, I am so tired and yet I cannot sleep because I hate being alone. I miss our Families so much. We are missing out on so much and that makes me so sad.

I am thankful that 3 people called us today. I am thankful I have amazing, healthy baby girls to fill my days with laughter and fun. I am thankful I have a husband who loves us and provides for us through a ton of sacrifice. I am thankful I have the strongest most amazing Mother who is always there when I am down or up to offer her strength, wisdom and love. I am thankful that I have a huge family that I love very much. I am thankful that I am healthy. I am thankful for terrific friendships we have made along the way. I am thankful to have a warm home and food when I know so many people are struggling right now. I am thankful for so much.....

Has anyone seen my best friend? I sure miss him......

2010-10-09T17:39:00.002-04:00

Maddison took this picture on my Birthday, and the Steelers were playing the Buc's, what a great day that was; A perfect Sunday.

It is moments like these that put everything we are going through in perspective. Moments where we get to just relax, breathe and just be. These moments are so few and only last for a short time anymore. I really miss my beer drinking, football watching buddy. We used to get so much time together. Time....is a luxury now.

We are on the downhill side of this huge roller coaster, only a short time of residency left to go. Did we make the right choice? Will it all be worth it in the end?

I firmly believe everything happens for a reason. However, it sometimes takes years to realize the reasoning.

Time, please slow down....

2010-10-09T16:46:00.004-04:00

Time is precious-holding my daughter's small hand as we cross the street, reading books to my angels until my eyes are exhausted, snuggling with my baby in the rocking chair as she is drifting off to sleep, kissing her sweet little cheeks and praying she stays this small and amazing forever, coloring on the floor, tickling 4 little feet and hearing the laughter so pure, feeling how soft their skin is when I kiss their sweet faces goodnight, blowing raspberries on their bellies, watching Maddie teach Gabbie....these amazing moments I will cherish forever. I wish my little girls would stay small and protected forever and that time would just stop some days. It is just passing too fast.

Using her fork !

2010-10-07T22:58:00.002-04:00

Happy 1st Birthday Angel Gabriella !!!

2010-09-30T07:39:00.002-04:00

Thank you Daddy !

2010-09-15T13:47:00.003-04:00

Gabbie pretending to be sad.

2010-09-15T13:40:00.002-04:00

She has found the dog food.

2010-07-31T18:55:00.003-04:00

Oh Gabbie Grace

2010-07-17T21:20:00.003-04:00

I did it.....

2010-07-16T15:56:00.003-04:00

Did what ? I took my 4 1/2 year old and her 9 month old baby sister on an airplane, from Virginia to Nevada all by myself !!! Despite some MAJOR airline delays, and some looks from strangers as to why I would do this, we did it. I love knowing I can handle most situations that are thrown my way. I am trying to teach Maddison through example to just roll with it and to not freak out when things don't go as planned. Some things are out of our control and I really try to make the best out of every situation. I think after living in the Caribbean for 2 years, I have figured out how little we need to survive !!

Jason had to work trauma night shifts, so the girls and I packed up and headed off to Grandma's house !! We had an amazing trip and got to see so many relatives. We missed Daddy, however we miss him all the time when we are here !!

(Side note: I also managed to pack our bags to go in an hour !! I had the wrong date in my head and at 7:00 at night when my Mom reminded me I was leaving at 6 am the next morning I had to hussle. Again, I did not panic, I just packed. It was a great help that all the clean laundry was folded nicely in the laundry baskets !!)

Dance Recital !!

2010-05-29T18:27:00.002-04:00

Gabriella is 8 months old !!

2010-05-28T22:57:00.002-04:00

Where has the 8 Months gone ?It feels like we just brought you home !! What a little angel you are !! You are always happy and you love to smile at everyone. You are such a little blessing of Peace, just looking at you melts our hearts. You are almost crawling, you can move from one side of the room to the other by rolling and scootching. You can do the splits and sit yourself up. You are still sleeping with us because we love to snuggle you !!! Daddy is worse than me. We love you so much little one !!

Very special Mother's Day

2010-05-28T22:34:00.003-04:00

This Mother's Day was so special, I actually spent it with my Mother !! She flew out to spend the week with us and it was such a great visit. Maddison as you can see, would not leave her lap or her sight. She loves her Nae Nae so much. We planted our vegetable garden, visited the Botanical Gardens, went roller skating (Grandma watched). It was so great and the weather allowed us to do so much. Thanks again for flying all day out to see us, and staying in our noisy home and for loving us !!!!

When my Mom finally did get home after a very long trip with lots of delays she had a little surprise in her luggage. Maddison had painted a ceramic Care Bear and insisted that Grandma take it home with her. Grandma was afraid it would break and decided to leave it here. Maddison saw that Grandma put it back on the bookshelf and snuck it back into her suitcase the morning she flew home. It made it in one piece without being wrapped or packed and it was in the zippered front pocket of my Mom's suitcase !!!! The zipper was also only half closed. How it was not crushed !! It was meant for Nae Nae to have !!

Spring in Virginia May 2010

2010-05-28T21:57:00.007-04:00

Spring is amazing in Virginia !! The green is everywhere and the blooming flowers are beautiful. We have really loved getting outside and spending these warm days with some great friends we have been so lucky to meet !!

I really have loved helping Maddison learn about flowers and what it means to be a good gardener. It makes me realize everything my parents taught me. I secretly think her Grandpa Ivan is looking over us and teaching her too. How I would have loved to see him teach my girls and spend time with them..... Grandparents are so special.

Trip Home to Nevada in April

2010-04-24T11:22:00.005-04:00

We went home to Nevada in April to see our families and to attend Jason's baby sister's Wedding. It was a very busy week, but we had so much fun and got to see and spend time with a lot of family. Really makes us miss everyone so much !! Some day we will be back on the West Coast and closer to those we love sooo much !! Miss you all !! Also a special thanks to all of you who made our visit so amazing !!

6 Month old little Angel !!

2010-03-30T20:53:00.011-04:00

Gabriella Grace, "full of Grace" wow, who would have thought we could be this in love with you little one !! You are the light in all of our eyes. You are a gift sent to us to complete our little family and you are amazing. You are always smiling at us and you scream when you are alone in a room and cannot see us. You are all about family and you are the happiest when we are all together ! You and your sister have this amazing bond. She ADORES you and you light up when you hear her !! It is so neat to watch the two of you play already. Daddy is the one who can snuggle you and put you right to sleep. Gabbie you love to snuggle !! When I hold you, you snuggle with me and hold on and you are so still. I get nothing done and that is o.k., holding you is the most important thing. Kissing you is so fun, you laugh out loud. And when I lay you down in our bed you get so excited because you know it is time for kisses !! You are the most affectionate baby and you love contact with all of us. You can see why it's so easy to love on you !!!

6 Months-18.8 pounds !!! We love you baby girl !!!

Happy girl !!

2010-03-19T20:53:00.001-04:00

Day at the Park !!

2010-03-07T17:40:00.006-05:00

Maddison, Gabriella and Mommy decided to go to the park today. Despite Mommy's cold we just could not pass up a 60 degree day ( the first one in a long, long time). Daddy had to stay home and sleep because he had worked all night and most of the day. We had a great day, would have been perfect if Daddy had been

there too !!

Finger painting

2010-03-06T13:26:00.002-05:00

Chattin, chattin away !

2010-02-23T07:45:00.003-05:00

She's getting better !

2010-02-18T13:36:00.002-05:00

Silly Gabriella

2010-02-10T19:15:00.002-05:00

Gabriella eating Cereal

2010-02-10T16:07:00.004-05:00

Girl after my own heart !!!

Another snow day~~~~~~

2010-02-10T15:46:00.004-05:00

Wow we are snowed in again today and school was canceled !! I am ready for Spring ! You would think this Nevada girl would not mind so much, however it seems like it will never end. It is much harder to get out with both girls in the cold, so we stayed home and painted Valentines.

Future speed skating Champion !!

2010-02-04T13:21:00.002-05:00

Let it snow baby !! And some silly ones too.

2010-02-02T15:15:00.007-05:00

We have had lots of fun in the 12 inches of snow that arrived all day Saturday. Maddison has gone sledding twice, and keeps asking to go faster !! Girl after my own heart !!

Good day to make soup !!

2010-01-30T17:22:00.002-05:00

Shannon’s Veggie Soup

If you wish, you can add any type of meat, cooked beans, brown rice, barley, or whole wheat pasta. Cook those separately and do not add to all the soup or it will soak up all your broth. Parmesan Cheese on top is great also. * I use a food processor to chop all the veggies !

Ingredients:

1 Tbsp. Olive Oil

5 lb. bag of carrots (or less)

1 yellow onion (diced)

1 head of celery

2-5 Zucchini’s keep onion, carrots

12 mushrooms and celery separate.

1-2 cans of tomato paste

1 can of diced tomatoes (do not drain)

2 cans of green beans

1-3 Bouillon cubes (veggie, chick or beef) this is the only salt

**Option, use carrot and celery Juice to help with the broth flavor (juice your own or buy it)

In large stock pot or really big soup pot add the oil and let it get hot. Then add onions to brown them. Add carrots and celery and stir for a few minutes. Add your carrot and celery juice here. Then add all remaining veggies and enough Water to cover all of it. Add cans of tomato paste, diced tomatoes and bouillon cubes. Stir to help the paste separate. Simmer on Med-high heat for about 20 min. or until veggies are done. Add spices as you wish.

Spices and Herbs (fresh or dried) :3 Tbsp of basil, 2 Tbsp of Parsley, Lots of Garlic, black pepper, Spike (32 herb seasoning sold at most health food stores-comes salt free too), lemon pepper.

Enjoy!!!!

Our little Angels

2010-01-22T11:54:00.004-05:00

It is rainy and very cold outside today so we decided to have a mini photo shoot. It was fun, Gabriella was so shocked to have something other than warm jammies on. We hope you enjoy them !!! Love and miss you all so much !!

Gabriella is 4 months and Maddison is 4

We named her Gabbie for a reason

2010-01-12T22:01:00.002-05:00

Laughing

2010-01-10T15:53:00.006-05:00

Her expressions

2010-01-10T15:18:00.005-05:00

What a 4 year old can do if you let them

2010-01-10T14:29:00.003-05:00

Maddison is so capable of doing so many things when I just trust her to do them. She can pour her own juice or milk, loves to get all the stuff out of the fridge to make a turkey sandwich. Every weekend we try to make pancakes or waffles and she is so helpful running the mixer and measuring ingredients. Don't get me wrong, she is still a little messy, but how else is she going to learn if she doesn't try on her own. The really amazing part in all of this is the confidence she feels when she does a good job. She also has a chore chart and when she earns a little magnet for a completed chore, she is so happy. She is responsible for feeding our dog Tuesday, she sets the table and clears. She has also learned how to help with the laundry, sorting, folding and putting away. She just turned 4, and it is so neat to see how her little mind works things out.

Her help with her baby sister has been so great. She is always there to go get something I need for the baby. She helps when her sister is fussy, and is always making Gabi smile. The other day I came down the stairs and Maddie asked me to bring her a diaper, when I asked why, she said "because sister's is wet". Maddison all by herself had baby undressed and her diaper off, when I gave her the diaper she put it on her sister. What a great big sis she is.

Amazing moments, and way behind with "Chores"

2010-01-10T14:03:00.008-05:00

I am still getting very little sleep at night thanks to little Miss precious Gabriella. I know the logical thing to do is to put her in her own room, however as I sit here typing this I will not complain about sleep knowing that she is our last baby. She is only going to be this small for such a short time and she loves, loves to snuggle. This little miracle grew in my belly for 9 months and knows my heartbeat, so I am "supposed" to put her in a cold crib all by herself? I am just not that kind of Mommy. I will let the dust collect and the laundry pile up to snuggle my baby girl, because I know I will never get these precious moments back. I don't want to look back and say I should have held her more, but my house was sure clean !!

Christmas morning -----Minty !!

2009-12-28T20:16:00.003-05:00

Someone is a little excited. Mommy has looked everywhere for Minty from My Little Pony, and Santa found one !!

Sledding !!

2009-12-20T21:52:00.002-05:00

Our child loves to go fast !! She has no fear and told me today that the long sled is too slow, the disk is faster !! Daddy caught her at the end, right before the rock pile !

Maddison's 4th Birthday

2009-12-16T08:16:00.007-05:00

Well it feels like it has been forever since I updated this blog !! So much is going on and life is really busy now that we have 2 babes. Maddison turning 4 was so much fun and we have decided to make the week after her Birthday our family vacation week !! Next year we are thinking of going to New York to see the Thanksgiving day parade on 34th St, in person. Or maybe we could head for Florid a again, it was so warm !!

This year we pack the girls up and headed for Disneyworld !! What a great trip. Maddison was so excited to see the Princess Castle, where Mickey lived, and all the characters. It was so great to see it through her eyes. Gabriella was the best little traveler at 9 weeks old !! She just slept a lot, and fussed a little. I am going to post way to many pictures of our trip.

The week before we left for Florida we had 15 children at Maddison's Birthday Party at Kangaroo Jac's. It is a giant building full of inflatables. They all had such a good time and Maddie finally got her Daisy Duck cake, decorated by her Daddy. He did a great job on her cake.

Maddie also received lots of great Birthday presents from Family and friends in the mail, so thanks again to all those that remembered her on her special day.

Gabriella talks to Daddy !!!

2009-12-05T19:16:00.003-05:00

Pictures of the Girls

2009-11-19T08:32:00.004-05:00

Sweet Sisters

Gabriella 7 weeks 11 Pounds !!

Picture comparison

2009-11-09T06:40:00.005-05:00

This is Jason and Maddison almost 4 years ago. She was days old.

This is Jason and baby Gabriella also days old. I think are girls look a little bit alike, what do you think ??
Also did you happen to notice that my husband just keeps getting more handsome ?? How fair is that?

Current pictures of our crazy life !!

2009-11-08T12:49:00.006-05:00

Maddison being silly.

Ballet class !!

Last time at the beach before the cold weather !!

Daddy's home from work, she got the first kiss that day.

Bath time with sister, such a big girl and loves her baby so much.

A glimpse at my day to day life. She is a social girl, even in the bathroom.

Us at the park.

Poor dog, what would we do without her. Maddison and Tuesday play dress up at least twice a day. Our sweet dog is so patient.

Our love affair with baby Gabriella .........

2009-10-06T21:23:00.007-04:00

Gabriella Grace, just arrived!!!

2009-09-28T17:08:00.007-04:00

What a night, our new daughter came at 0228 in the morning. She was 8lbs 5 oz, 19.5 inches, WTF you say? I hear you, I made the nurse re-weigh her twice, being sure she couldn't be over 7 lbs.

We made the decision to go in to VCU at 1800 and get things "started" after another day and night of variable degrees of contractions. Dilated to 4cm, random contractions, we requested to be ROM'd (breaking the water), nothing exciting happened, so let's start some "pit" (oxytocin, for augmentation of labor). A few hours later the contractions are booming every 2 minutes and really starting to hurt. Of course labor progressed and after about 7 hrs of increasing intensity, a lot of loud noises, tears and writhing in pain, my wife did it!. She was dilated to 9cm almost completely effaced, felt like she had to push and really couldn't stand the pain anymore. So, she pushed a little, the baby crowned, I coached her to focused and turn the pain into good pushes, and after about 6 0r 7 real good pushes that beautiful baby came out. Oh and did I mention the attending, had to insert her hand and physically push the cervix up over her head so she could come out. Yeah, ouch!

What an amazing woman, to fight through what could only be described from a bystander as the most obviously, excrutiatingly painful endeavour few women volunteer for now-a-days. I was so proud of her, she really did a great job with no epidural, no complications, and just true grit to pull through it. You are so amazing, baby, I love you. Thank you for another amazingly, beautiful baby girl!

Happy 13 Years together Big Daddy !!!

2009-09-06T10:54:00.002-04:00

13 years ago I married this amazing man !!! I remember thinking then, how could I possibly love him more than I do today? How can I live, breathe, even exist without him in my life ? Amazingly I feel all those same feelings today, and they have grown stronger over the years. He is the most amazing husband, friend and father. How did I luck out ??

I still look into his eyes and just melt, the sound of his voice makes me melt and when he makes me laugh out loud, I still get the chills when we laugh together !!! He still makes me feel like I am the only one in the room.

Thanks for this amazing journey together Jason !! You are the other half of me, and I am still so amazed at the love we share !!

37 Weeks, 20 Days (or less) to go !!!

2009-09-06T10:39:00.003-04:00

So, an Anesthesiologist IS a Doctor !

2009-08-22T09:39:00.005-04:00

For 12-14 hours a day this is what Jason does. He puts the patient at ease, then puts them to sleep so they feel no pain, don't move and are unaware during their surgery. He continually monitors their blood pressure, heart rate, oxygen and carbon dioxide levels, temperature, cardiac rhythm, anesthetic gas levels and neuromuscular function (just to name a few).

To me his role is the most important role in the entire operating room, he is solely in charge of keeping the patient safe, comfortable and alive. The surgeons role is important yes, but they are not responsible for the patients breathing and heart functions, the anesthesiologist is. Additionally, there must be constant communication with the surgeon regarding any life-threatening issues, and if necessary the anesthesiologist can stop or cancel the procedure if deemed unsafe for the patient.

It has taken us YEARS to get to this point and to see how much my husband is "loving" what he is doing is so rewarding. He is so calm and cool when it comes to using all the skills and knowledge he has acquired. I am so so so PROUD of him !!!

This next month he will be on the Labor and Labor floor learning all about epidurals and spinal anesthesia. He will bring the Mommy's relief from pain, so I am sure he will love that.

I love you so much Jason !! I knew since the day I first met you what an amazing person you are and that you are so smart and so capable. Your confidence amazes me. Thank you for choosing me to be your best friend, wife and the mother of your children, (I am sure I got the better end of that deal !!)

Happy Birthday Jason !!!!

2009-08-20T08:02:00.002-04:00

I am a little late in wishing my sweet Husband a Happy Birthday on the blog page !!! It has been a crazy few weeks. Maddison and I made him 24 German Chocolate Cake cupcakes, he has taken them to work all week. He also got to go golfing on his birthday, which made him very, very happy !! We love you big Daddy and as always thank you for all that you do to make your girls Happy !!!

Lovins for her baby sister.......

2009-07-30T17:27:00.001-04:00

----A beautiful salad for dinner and the pushup----

2009-07-30T07:38:00.003-04:00

I love salad's !! I have certain requirements for a healthy salad however. One of them is no ice berg lettuce, that is the kind that is shaped like a ball, absolutely no nutritional value, just cellulose. When choosing salad greens, the greener the better (green equals vitamins). I use a little romaine, a little red leaf lettuce and some spinach for a base. Another requirement is that the dressing is on the side, even if it is fat free. By dipping your fork in the dressing, then getting a bite of salad you will use a lot less and lower the calories. Dressings are full of sugar and fat, so a little should go a long way. One of my favorite dressing's is Brianna's Saucy Ginger Mandarin. It very high in calories, so again you just need a little. I also really like the new spray dressings!! The Asian one is yummy. If you are a Ranch or Blue Cheese person, just try to find a fat free one.
Toppings are a must, strawberries, apple cubes, fat free cheese, craisins (dried cranberries), sliced almonds, cucumbers, avocado you name it !!! If you have small children, let them choose what goes in the salad, they might want to try it themselves. Be creative and don't be afraid to mix odd things together, you would be surprised what tastes good together. I am vegetarian, but I still eat eggs, so I use a hard boiled egg and black beans for protein. Diced chicken works very well, however if you are trying to cut calories you really don't need it. Also crackers, chips and croutons add a nice crunch, just try and choose something low in calories or baked not fried. I have found that just having a nice salad for dinner is a great way to bring the scale down in the morning. You might even wake up hungry, which is good thing !!

Now to that upper body and strengthening those arms. Please do not attempt if you have any wrist, arm, shoulder problems. If not, then try a push-up. Start out on your knees with ankles crossed, hands below your shoulders about shoulder width apart. When starting out, do not go all the way down, any movement downward is good, you have to work up to it. Try 10 at first. Remember not to put your bum in the air, that's cheating !!! Also I have discovered a store called 5 below, it's like the dollar store. They have a fitness section that carries dumbbells. 1-5 pounders. Go get yourself a pair of 5 pound weights and do some bicep curls. Good luck and try something new this week !!! Take some time for yourself, you deserve it !! Namaste....

What makes a man sexy ??

2009-07-28T10:32:00.004-04:00

I am sure you are all dying to know my opinion on most things !! Ha ha. However when it comes to what makes a man sexiest, I think I know. Lets not forget, there are many things in combination that are attractive, eyes, hair, muscles, voice and shoulders etc. However the sexiest thing for me is to watch my husband play and interact with our daughter !! Watching Jason and Maddison play in the ocean on Sunday was so great. He played with her, and for a long moment in time she was the only one in the world. It is in these little moments in time that you realize the important role the father has in the family. As I watched them it became so clear to me, I am so proud that I chose this man to have babies with !! He is so patient and so kind, and he is all ours !!! We love you Jason.....

Blogging about Nutrition and Exercise !!

2009-07-24T08:43:00.005-04:00

Disclaimer : I am not a licensed nutritionist or a personal trainer. I am just a Mother and a Wife who knows quite a lot when it comes to trying to stay healthy and feel good. Exercise is good for the body and the soul, we know this. Having a bad day, put the ice cream down and go for a walk, you will feel better. That being said I am going to blog about diet and exercise, however I am not responsible for how the information is used. My goal is to be helpful, not harmful. Please do not hurt yourself and if I help you let me know, also if you have a question, please ask (Just leave a comment). Namaste......

I have this plan to begin posting about diet and exercise. We shall see how well this goes after the new little girl Rolfe is born !! For now, I just was thinking about how easy it is to loose a few pounds (when not pregnant of course) by simply changing a few of our daily habits. One idea is to just not eat all that you put on your plate!! Simply cut what you would normally eat in half for a week, and you will be surprised at the fact you will survive from a smaller amount of food and you might even feel better by not being so full. Another bad habit many of us get into is eating just because food it's there and not because we are actually hungry. Listen to your body, are you hungry? Or are you bored?? If you are bored, try an apple !!!

As for exercise ideas, I have tons. My main one right now is to try something new !! Get out of your comfort zone and go to an exercise class that you have never tried before !!! Do not be scared or feel embarrassed, everyone else in that room is probably feeling that way too. Why should you deny yourself the benefit of exercise, be selfish please when it comes to doing something that is so good for you !!!!!
Our family belongs to the local YMCA and I love it !! We pay a very small amount per month for membership and child care is FREE !!!! They offer many classes and have nice people that just walk around to help you if you need it. What more do you need ?? Just remember your water !!!

"Pain is just weakness leaving the body"

Dreaming of the Caribbean water......so turquoise, so warm...

2009-07-20T18:51:00.004-04:00

After living on the tropical island of Saba for almost 2 years, the island just becomes part of you. You are never the same. Snorkeling in the warm blue-green waters was so peaceful. Life was so amazing and difficult there, I really miss the simplicity of most things.

Jason and I have made a promise to ourselves to go back to the islands for a well needed vacation, just the two of us. The idea of this trip is so exciting to me, a place to just be, relax and soak up the serenity that only the Caribbean can offer. I am dreaming of the sun, the sand, the water, a very yummy cocktail or two, and my husbands uninterrupted conversation and company. Don't get me wrong, we love our daughter and we love our unborn little baby girl, however there is a selfish side to us that longs for some time for just us. Someday....... a girl can dream.

Maddie is such a crafty girl !

2009-07-16T09:50:00.003-04:00

We have had 2 trips now to the Paint and Play store at the mall. Maddie loves painting the ceramics and it keeps her busy for hours !! Our last project is a cute little doggy dish for our dog. We pick it up next week when they are done cooking it in the oven. It will be a great looking bowl, with every color imaginable on it, lots of layering of the colors and Tuesday's name on it. As we were there she was picking out other projects !!!!

Almost 29 weeks (7 months) !!!

2009-07-11T10:53:00.003-04:00

Ok, so we are 1 day shy of 29 Weeks !! I am starting to think about labor pains, and caring for a newborn again, very excited. I am hoping to have this baby without an epidural just like I did with Maddison, but we shall see. Jason thinks I should try it with, just to compare. Maddie is also excited, she talks about "what a great big sister she is going to be to her lovely new little baby !!!"

Happy Birthday Papa ......

2009-07-09T08:05:00.002-04:00

Today would have been my Father's 74th Birthday. You will be in my thoughts today papa, as you are everyday. We miss you and we love you.

The funny side of having a huge belly

2009-07-08T07:02:00.003-04:00

O.k., so gaining weight again has not been fun for me. As I still completely REFUSE to wear maternity clothes because they are designed by very mean men, I am proud to say I am still in my normal clothes. With that being said I have noticed that my belly is getting very round and big. This comes in very handy for resting a bowl of ice cream or a bowl of cereal (that Jason is eating Ha Ha). Also I can no longer see my feet let alone reach them, which means I need to go for a pedicure more often.
My belly now touches everything before I do, no real advantage to this, and I am sure the little baby girl is getting tired of the bonks on the head. I also have become even more clutsy than I usually am. I contribute this to my balance being way off.

So just a few funny things about having a big belly. Have a great day !!!

She waits for this all day !!

2009-07-08T06:48:00.003-04:00

Maddie waits all day for Daddy to come home because it is time to wrestle with him and she gets to jump on the couch. We are so glad our 10 year old couch can take all the jumping. Playing with her Daddy is the best part of both her and Jason's day. I see a trampoline in the backyard someday !!

Just being her "Cheeky" little self

2009-07-07T06:22:00.004-04:00

You might think this picture is posed, however our little girl is very girly and this is one of her standard stances. She has those hands on her hips quite a bit. She just loves her rose bud swimming suit. I am actually happy I have a picture of her in the backyard with something covering her body. She usually is running around naked.

The fourth of July !!

2009-07-07T05:57:00.007-04:00

We made blue berry pancakes for Daddy and we

let him sleep in. Then we packed up and it was off to the beach for the day.

Taking a break from swimming and eating a peach.

Maddie and Daddy waiting for the fireworks to start. She loved the fireworks. This was the first year she stayed up late enough to enjoy them. She said "Mommy they are so amazing and beautiful, can I touch them?" "I am so happy to celebrate Merica's birthday !!" So neat to see the world through her eyes.
We hope you all had a great 4th of July.

Family trip to Busch Gardens

2009-06-22T16:00:00.009-04:00

We spent Father's Day at Busch Gardens. What a fun day!! Maddison got to see all the Sesame Street Character's she loves, Daddy got to ride really big coasters and drink beer !! Maddison has also decided that she loves to go fast and roller coasters are the greatest thing ever. We are scared, she is only 3 and a half. Mommy had fun too just watching, but once baby is born, watch out it's my turn !!! Oh and the best part of the day was getting in for free, thanks to Jason and his service to the U.S. Air Force.

Happy Father's Day Jason !!

2009-06-21T08:29:00.002-04:00

To an amazing husband and father. Thanks for just being you. We love you so much. You are still Maddie's favorite snuggler (and mine too). We hope you have a great day.
Love you ...... And just think this time next year there will be another little girl for you to cuddle with !!

Jason is "officially" done with being a lowly intern !!!!

2009-06-21T07:46:00.003-04:00

We now have more reason to celebrate some changes coming our way, like a new baby daughter. Jason is no longer an intern !!! He is now a CA-1. This may not sound like much to you, but for us it's a big deal. The first year of medical residency for a new doctor is the hardest one and we made it !!! It was a very, very, very challenging and hard year for all of us, especially Jason. Once again we made it through, and it feels really good. Now he is able to do strictly anesthesia in the operating room. His hours will be normal, 5 am to 3 ish everyday and NO WEEKENDS !!

I am so proud of him (I know I say that a lot)!!! He just never gives up and just keeps going. He tells me that Maddison and I keep him going. His desire is to create a safe and secure future for our family, which makes my heart melt. It makes me so proud to be his wife and to be the one standing by his side through this journey we are on.

25 and a half weeks !!

2009-06-14T18:56:00.001-04:00

Little baby "Minty" is growing.

Family Pictures

2009-06-08T11:28:00.008-04:00

Funny how pictures can tell a story. It was so good to see our family despite the reason we all were together. It was a day of mixed emotions. Remembering my Father with tears and laughter. I know he was there with us......

For those of us that need a smile-- Vintage Maddie

2009-05-29T22:15:00.002-04:00

My Father's Passing

2009-05-21T15:36:00.004-04:00

This picture was taken the day we brought Maddie home from the hospital, she was a day old. My Dad was so excited to see her and kept saying she was "so pretty, so pretty." My Dad always loved babies and he really loved holding Maddie and kissing on her. This is one of my favorite pictures and memories of him.

My Dad passed away on May 20th, he was 73 years old. I am grateful to have so many memories of him that make me laugh out loud. He always had something to say !!! You are missed Dad, and we will always love you !!!

(Give everyone you love a hug today, just for me !!)

Strawberries on Mother's Day

2009-05-12T14:31:00.006-04:00

My Rowdy Mom's group told us about this great Strawberry Farm, so we drove out on Mother's Day. We had so much fun. Maddison had a pony ride and a hay ride to go pick strawberries !! She was in heaven and the strawberries were so yummy.

Baby Girl in 3D

2009-05-11T21:56:00.005-04:00

I hope you can see these o.k. These were taken today. She is so cute !! That is her little hand under her chin. Maddison was there with me and it was so sweet to hear her talk to "her baby" as she was seeing her move. We may have had a breakthrough on the naming of this baby, today she decided that "lollypop" was better than "minty" !!! That is progress.

Today was amazing, I could actually see this little baby taking breaths (gulps) of fluid, and as I was watching her I could not get over how much she looks like Maddie !!

Happy Mother's Day !!

2009-05-10T07:17:00.004-04:00

Happy Mother's Day to all the amazing Mom's that we know. We hope you remember on this special day how important the role of a Mother is. Being a mother is an "all the time" job of full of many ups and downs. Thank you to all the wonderful Mom's that have sacrificed so much of themselves to raise amazing children. And a special thank you to the Mom's that have touched our lives and taught us how to be better parents !! We were always listening and learning. Thank you to our Mom's who sacrificed to raise Jason and I both, you did an excellent job and we would not be the people we are today without you !!!! We wish you an amazing day and we hope you know how much you are loved !!!

Spring flowers make me smile

2009-05-07T18:16:00.005-04:00

After days and days of rain, the sun came out today and the flowers in our yard were amazing.
Maddie and I had the worst night ever. She was crying for her Daddy all night and was in terrible pain from an ear infection that I thought was gone. After trying every trick I knew and getting frustrated at not being able to make my daughter feel better, I finally just held her tight and let her cry, then she fell asleep from exhaustion at 4:30 in the morning. A trip to the pediatrician today proved it is a bad infection so we are on our 2nd round of antibiotics !!!
She just wanted her Daddy and it broke my heart. So sad to hear her cry for him. This 2 weeks of him being gone has been very hard, but he comes home Saturday night and I know she will not let him out of her sight !!! WE MISS YOU DADDY, COME HOME TO YOUR GIRLS......

Belly is growing !!

2009-05-04T07:22:00.008-04:00

The picture in pink was taken at 11 weeks at the park, the sports bra photo is at 19 weeks. Baby is growing as is my belly. I am going to try to stay in better shape this time. Hopefully it will make labor easier and I can bounce back faster.

Hug your babies for me !!!!

2009-05-03T21:51:00.003-04:00

Today Maddison and I walked 5 miles for the March of Dimes, march for babies. It was so great to be part of something so big. So many people have had their lives take drastic turns when their babies are born with health problems and some of them do not make it. I just hope that all of you with healthy beautiful children give them an extra kiss and hug for me today. We take it for granted when our babies are born so perfect and healthy.

Missing Daddy sooo much !!

2009-04-27T08:44:00.002-04:00

I really do not like to be away from my husband. I would imagine some people would think differently after 12 years of marriage, but not me. I am just not complete or myself when he is not with us. He is the other half of me. Maddison told me last night, through her little teary eyes how much she misses her "special best friend Daddy". So then we both were crying.

Jason is on a 2 week Officer's training for the military and is not happy. We thought about going with him but so far he has not had any free time.

11 more days to go !! That statement makes my heart sink. We miss you so much Jason, thank you for always working so hard and being so dedicated to doing what is best for our family !! Come home to your girls !!!
Love, the 3 of us !!

Who took the Easter eggs ??

2009-04-17T09:31:00.003-04:00

Someone took Maddie's Easter eggs !!! Don't worry, she found them.

That's not my name !!!

2009-04-17T09:14:00.002-04:00

Maddison just loves dancing to this song by the Ting Tings !! Unfortunately Tuesday our dog does not. Enjoy !!

Baby Girl #2 !!!!!!

2009-04-14T09:44:00.005-04:00

This is Maddison's baby sister "Minty" !!!! Let's hope the name does not stick. She knew before we did that a baby was in Mommy's tummy and that is was a girl !!! We are all very excited. Another girl, poor Jason is really going to be outnumbered !!!

She is due on September 26th, which also happens to be Mommy's Birthday !!

Picnic at the park with Daddy

2009-03-29T10:11:00.011-04:00

Last Sunday we packed a picnic lunch, grabbed a blanket and off we went to the park for a picnic. The weather was great that day and it was so great to get some time with Daddy. There is a petting zoo area at this park and Maddie is in love with the 3 new baby goats. She and Daddy also took a carriage ride, shared an ice cream cone and spent some good family time together. What a fun day. Thank you Daddy for forgetting all the other things we could have got done that day, and doing what was most important, we love you !!!

Winter to Summer in 2 days !!!

2009-03-10T15:31:00.017-04:00

Jason and I are used to the weather changing from day to day after living in all the many places we have lived, however for the seasons to change in 2 days, that is a new one!!! Maddie and I made a snowman on March 5th, then on March 7th the 3 of us went to Maymont park and spent the day in 80 degree weather !!! We actually have the sunburn to prove it. Virginia weather is amazing !! I don't think Maddison stopped smiling the whole day. We hope the weather is nice for all of you, we have really enjoyed this last week.

Snow in Virginia

2009-03-03T08:40:00.002-05:00

SNOW !!!

2009-03-03T08:26:00.003-05:00

Well Virginia has been hit with the biggest storm in years. 1-2 inches of snow is normal, but this storm was amazing !! So much snow. Maddie and Tuesday are having so much fun playing in it.

Balloons from Grandma & Grandpa

2009-02-15T11:49:00.002-05:00

Maddison was so excited when her balloons from Grandma Nancy and Grandpa Tom arrived !!! She could not believe they were all for her. Thank you so much for making her feel special on Valentine's Day !!! We love and miss you !!

Valentine's Day party at Preschool

2009-02-14T12:52:00.003-05:00

What a girly girl she is. She was so excited to wear a pretty dress and get her hair curled for the party. They also got to take pictures with little bunnies for Easter. It was a great day at school, no wonder she asks to go 5 days a week !!

The start of a easier month for all of us

2009-02-10T08:24:00.003-05:00

Jason began a new rotation in the Neuro Intensive Care ward and when he walked in the door yesterday at 3:30, I was jumping up and down (would have screamed but Maddie was still napping). I could not believe it was really him. To top it all off he will get weekends off !!! Yes I said weekends meaning 2 days off in a row !! I know you think my excitement is crazy, but poor Jason has had only 4 days off in the last month. He worked every 3rd day until 10 at night, it was a crazy month for all of us, we missed him so much.
My sweet husband came home yesterday and when Maddie woke up, we all played Zingo (it's like Bingo). Then he sent me out of the house for a pedicure !! While I was gone he and Maddie made a Valentine craft, she was so happy to have her Daddy all to herself. It was a great afternoon. Thanks Jason, I love you. So happy that we get to see you more in this coming 4 weeks.

We are making Jason go golfing

2009-01-23T14:17:00.003-05:00

My sweet husband is worn out. He is on this crazy rotation of internal medicine and it really sucks. Every other day he is at the hospital until 9 or 10 at night, he is there at 6 each morning. Tomorrow is his day off and I have a 10 o'clock tee time for him. I hope he can just relax and do something he wants to do.

Thank you so much Jason for working so hard, what would we do without you !!!

Oh, and by the way, after golf can we go to lunch ????

First trip to the dentist !!

2009-01-23T14:12:00.003-05:00

Our little girl is growing up too fast. After seeing Mom and Dad go to the dentist for a cleaning, she decided she wanted one too. The hygienist and the dentist were so great with her and she did so great. No cavities and all her teeth look good. She informed the whole office that "sugar rots our teeth, but vegetables do not". What a little old lady she is !!!!!

Maddie singing at Leanne (Lu Lu) and John's house

2009-01-20T20:43:00.003-05:00

Here is another classic Maddison moment. While staying in Kansas at our dear friend's home, Maddie enjoyed playing the piano and singing. Too funny.

Are you ready for us KANSAS ????

2009-01-11T09:58:00.002-05:00

Maddison and I are so excited, we are going to Kansas on Tuesday !!!!! We can hardly wait to see all our friends !!! It is going to be so fun and it is all Maddie and Mommy can talk about. Our dear friend Leanne is letting us stay with her and her family (so sweet of her).

Very quiet weekend

2009-01-11T08:46:00.006-05:00

This weekend was Jason's first weekend at the base as Captain Rolfe. Maddie and I decided to stay home so Daddy could get used to the base without us bugging him. It has been cold and rainy, so we played some games. Next time we will go with Daddy, we missed him too much !!

Maddison riding her new bike on Christmas day.

2008-12-30T08:57:00.004-05:00

Family Christmas Party

2008-12-24T18:37:00.005-05:00

Trip home to Nevada to see our Families

2008-12-24T16:55:00.035-05:00

~~~~Jason, Maddison and I spent about 10 days traveling to Nevada and Arizona to see family. We tried to see everyone we could We got to see Maddison's Great Grandma Lorraine and Great Grandpa Ray. We took some time and drove out to the Hoover Dam in Vegas. It was so neat to see the new bridge they are building.

~~~~Next stop was my Mom's house. She had made her sweet rolls(yum) for us to enjoy and she helped take our picture for our cards this year. We just love to stay with Mom, she always makes us feel right at home.

~~~~Our Niece Lindsay brought a fun craft for Maddie to do and they made cookies together at her house, they had so much fun. We also got to visit with Uncle Korey (thanks again for dinner), Aunt Terri, Chelsea (and that boy Ha Ha) and Kyle. We had such a good time just being with family.

~~~~We went down to see my Dad and they were having a Christmas Party. I never thought I would see the day that my Dad put on a Santa costume to help hand out the presents !! But he did and he said Ho Ho Ho. It was such a fun time and my Dad was in heaven when all the nurses wanted their picture taken in Santa's lap !!!

~~~~We went to Jason's parents house for dinner and his Grandparents drove from California to join us and Auntie Dani came over too. Maddison got to play (tried to ride on her back) with Lexi, Grandpa Tom's really big Lab. She also got to play with Angel and Sophie.

My Christmas wish...with Love

2008-12-07T13:12:00.010-05:00

I have truly remembered, through my little girls eyes, the meaning of Christmas is FAMILY. I have come to understand that spending precious TIME with family is the greatest GIFT we can give each other.

My memories of the Holidays do not consist of what presents I was given, they are amazing memories of spending time with my FAMILY. Memories of the fun we would have playing Uno, Scattergories, Pictionary and Cranium with my nieces, nephews, brothers and sisters. Tasting all of my Mothers love in the sweet rolls and quiche she would make for breakfast. Then enjoying all the other delicious dishes that she makes for us every year. Each family bringing something special and yummy to share at our big family Christmas party. Sitting around laughing and talking, just being TOGETHER. Christmas is about giving of yourself and your time, to show the ones you love how much you love them.

Maddison is so excited to see all of her family and play with her generation of cousins which, amazingly, are our nieces and nephews babies !! She can hardly wait to see her aunts and uncles and all the Grandparents too. I really hope that she makes her Christmas memories of all the great times she gets to spend with family. We are so far away from our families and we miss you all so much. This year has been really tough on all of us for many reasons and getting to spend TIME with you ALL is what we are WISHING for, not gifts, just time. We have an amazing family and I hope that you all know how special you are and know how much we love you !!

Birthday Thank you !!!!

2008-12-07T12:54:00.008-05:00

We just wanted to thank everyone who sent Maddison a birthday gift and those who called to wish her a happy day !! I hope you know how much it means to us that you remembered her special day. She had such a great time turning 3 and it seemed like we were celebrating for 2 weeks. She just loved getting so many cards, presents and calls. We love you all and thanks again for loving her !!!

HAPPY 3RD BIRTHDAY TO OUR PRINCESS !!!!

2008-11-27T10:19:00.002-05:00

We can hardly believe it has been 3 years since you came into our lives !! What an angel you have been. Everyday you make us smile and laugh out loud. You have taught us the true meaning of love and we love seeing life through your eyes !!! Happy Birthday Sweetheart !!

When Maddie gets goofy before bed.

2008-11-26T07:00:00.005-05:00

Maddison was in rare form last night. She loves to sing and most of the time you can understand the words. She was tired last night and being silly. I hope it makes you smile.

Birthday card from Nae Nae

2008-11-23T07:54:00.006-05:00

Maddison opened her Birthday Card from her Grandma Charlotte. She played with the card all day long and tried to figure out how it worked. My poor child as you can see from the video really does not know what paper money is. She does however know how to swipe my debit card and push the buttons. Very cute. Thanks Mom, Love you.

Captain Jason Rolfe, M.D.

2008-11-17T05:45:00.005-05:00

November 2 2008--- Jason was finally sworn into the Air National Guard as Captain Rolfe !! He will be a Doctor in the Medical Squadron. This process is so exciting because he can continue his military career. I am so proud of him. We began this process back in February and it has taken this long to finalize everything. He will go to the base one weekend a month and Maddison and I can go with him and head for the beach !! This was such a great day. My Mom was staying with us so she and Maddie played at the house so Jason and I could drive out by ourselves. It was so nice to go somewhere with my Husband and know our little girl was safe and having fun with her Grandma !!! Congratulations Jason, this has been a long journey !!! I love you.

Thanks again Mom, we love you ......