The House of Pope

Easter Egg Hunt

2009-03-28T14:51:00.005-04:00

I took Genevieve to her first Easter Egg hunt today in town. It was really fun and cute. She walked away with 7 eggs, a stuffed bunny, and some goose poop.

Waiting in the car (we were there very early since I had no idea where it was)

Waiting for it to start

Self portrait

Ready to go

An egg, an egg!

I got it!

Waiting to see the bunny

She liked the bunny about as much as she liked Santa. It was hysterical.

Having fun on the playground

Riding a bicycle toy

Is this an egg? Nope, geese poop. Lovely.

I sqatted down to take her picture... she squatted too

15 Months!

2009-03-11T20:44:00.005-04:00

Wow 15 months. Where does the time go?

Here's her stats:
Weight: 22 pounds, 50th percentile
Height: 31 inches, 77th percentile

What she's up to lately?
Talking. She has quite a few words:
Hi (waves when saying it)
Bye-bye (waves again)
Dada
Mama
Cracker
Baby
Dog
Banana
Milk
Night-night
Duck
Tree
No
Nose
Eye
Elmo
and I think there's more but I can't remember.

She has some pretty funky dance moves.
She follows instructions and imitates.
She loves her dogs; the real ones & the stuffed ones.
She tries to pet the kids in her class, like she does to the dogs. When told to be nice and to be gentle she then tries to kiss them. It's really funny to watch.

No new pictures today :-( Still no laptop.

Sunday at the Park

2009-03-08T21:12:00.002-04:00

We went to Johnson Park today. Genevieve loved it! She loves being outside and exploring.
We thought these trees would be an awesome spot for a picture. She didn't have the same opinion as us.

Little kid, big bench.

Wandering

We tried the tree again.

As for my lack of updates here... my laptop is on the fritz. Have to get a new one soon.

Cosmo

2009-02-11T19:18:00.005-05:00

Our wonderful little watermelon with legs, Cosmo, went to the Rainbow Bridge on Saturday. He was such an awesome dog. He could make even the non-dog person (I still have a hard time believing there's such a thing) laugh and win them over. Cosmo had cancer in a few places and everything happened so quickly, in less than one week. There's so much more that I'd like to say about Cosmo but I just can't. Not right now anyway.

Here are some pictures of our Cosmo.

Christmas Pugs in Belmar

Playtime Pugs

Genevieve & Cosmo January 2008

Cosmo at work

Some of our engagement pictures take by Rebecca (I'm sorry for the bad scans)

We miss you & we love you Cosmo.

Drama

2009-01-27T20:38:00.004-05:00

I wanted to take a picture of Genevieve this morning but she wanted the camera. I wouldn't let her have it. Here is the video of her not getting her way.

Smiles

Who knew that Genevieve's onesie is the perfect size for duke?

Play Date

2009-01-21T19:50:00.008-05:00

We got together with friends & their kids over the weekend.

Julia

Loucas

Genevieve

John

Vinny

John & Julia Dancing

I Thought this was a cute series of pictures. She was looking at a Cookie Monster puppet.

Words

2009-01-15T20:00:00.006-05:00

In the last couple weeks Genevieve has been talking up a storm. When she's not using real words, she is constantly babbling. I think we're in trouble. So far she says Dada, Mama, Mommy, baby, duck, dog, bye-bye, cup, and banana (pronounced anana). I think she has a few others that I missed. Banana is a real problem. She's OBSESSED with bananas. I can't let her see them or she freaks out pointing and saying anana because she wants one! It's crazy!

A few pictures from her spaghetti dinner the other night. She's not really into pasta but she loves the sauce!

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-28T20:52:00.006-05:00

Hope everyone had a great Christmas!

Finally a puppy that likes me!

Cousins. Jenna & Genevieve (Jenna is 4 months older).

"Hey, get outta my way"

Serious girls ready to do some serious shopping

"Look Ma, I got some toilet paper, this stuff is FUN"

I LOVE Toilet Paper!

Leftovers rock!

YUM!

Not sure what this is all about!

The Bearded Baby

2008-12-14T21:16:00.003-05:00

12 Month Stats

2008-12-11T20:39:00.006-05:00

We had Genevieve's 12 month dr visit the other day. She screamed her head off anytime the dr or nurse was in sight. Dr thinks it's because of her hospital stay :-( Hopefully she gets over it for the next visit in March (I'm hoping we don't have any visits until then).

She's 21.9 pounds, 29 and 1/4 inches, and still has a huge head (19 inches).

And some random pictures from this week

She likes to point at everything

Finally found a pug that likes her

Cosmo trying to pull his head away from her

She loves her pony from her god parents

See if you can figure out the theme here

Happy First Birthday!

2008-12-03T20:23:00.007-05:00

Genevieve's First Birthday was yesterday. And in even bigger news Brian and I survived our first year as parents!

Here's her 12 Month picture with the bear (which was nearly impossible to get, she was all over the place).

A Slide show of her bear pictures for her first year

Make an on-line slide show at www.OneTrueMedia.com

We went to visit Santa in morning. It didn't go so well

Then we visited Brian at work and brought everyone pretzels.

When we got home I guess she was still hungry

In the afternoon we went to Toys R US to get a new toy and then we came home and played.

Then we got ready for bath time

And she had a fun bath time with Daddy.

First Birthday Party!

2008-11-30T20:25:00.004-05:00

We celebrated Genevieve's First Birthday on Saturday!

The Birthday Girl

Ready for her party

With Aunt Franny

She Loves balloons!

Trying to steal her Dad's beer

Wearing her Tutu on her head.

She had her own cake.

The kids helping her blow out her candle.

She didn't know what to do with the cake at first. She just started out sucking on it.

YUM!

Sharing with Daddy

Opening presents with Sierra & Zach

Hospital

2008-11-23T19:16:00.005-05:00

Very tough days. Genevieve was in the hospital Thursday - Sunday. She went to bed fine on Wednesday night and woke up the next morning w/a high fever and lethargic, dr sent us to the ER. Her fever reached as high as 104.6. Very scary. She went through a chest xray, blood tests, urine test, mucus test, and worst of all a spinal tap. All of her tests came back clear. She's still running fevers off an on but she's eating, drinking and acting more normal so we were sent home. Dr felt it was better to have her home instead of keeping her there and risking her catching something else. Here are some pictures.

Wednesday night before bed...

Thursday in the ER. This is pretty much what she did all of Thursday & Friday. The little time she was awake she just laid there.

I think this was on Saturday when she was being a little normal

This was Sunday before we were coming home.

11 Months Old!

2008-11-10T20:17:00.006-05:00

In less than one month Genevieve will be one year old. I can't believe it.

Last year right about now I was getting ready to go on maternity leave. Seems like yesterday but at the same time it seems like so long ago.

At her last dr visit for her flu shot, I plopped her on the scale, she was just about 21 pounds. I'm not sure how tall she is but she's looking longer to me lately. We'll see when we go for her ONE YEAR visit.

Here is the 11 month picture with the bear

Incase you forgot here is her first month picture with the bear. Is this really the same baby???

Once again, the bear photo shoot was difficult

She wants what she wants and she wants it NOW.
Here she wants the camera....

Happy Halloween!

2008-11-02T19:46:00.009-05:00

Genevieve's First Halloween!

Daycare Parade

Brandon & Genevieve

John, Sierra, & Phyllis

Jay & Brian

Chris, Julia, Mary, & John

Genevieve the clown

Wearing my wig

Family photo (Brian's now wearing the wig)

The end!

10 Month Picture (a little late)

2008-10-19T21:04:00.014-04:00

I forgot to post Genevieve's 10 month pictures! Opps!
Taking these pictures has become a joke.

We went to a pumpkin patch on Sunday. She was not feeling it at all. I'm not sure if it's from her having the stomach bug last week and a cold coming on this week; she wasn't our usual happy, smiling baby.

Um... if she could talk what do you think she would say....

She did try to eat the pumpkin

We did get a little grin

Spaghetti

2008-10-08T20:37:00.005-04:00

Genevieve had spaghetti for the first time this week. She didn't eat the spaghetti, just sucked the sauce off of it. Seems like she had fun eating it/sucking on it.

The end result, pure disaster! Look at this mess!

Hiding under her table

Check out her shirt

Enjoying a bagel. I don't think she actually ate any of this either. Just chewed on it and made a giant mess.

Cruising!

2008-09-30T20:21:00.006-04:00

Cruising up and down the hall with her walking toy.

Rutgers Graduate! Genevieve graduated from RU today! She took part in an early learning project; today was her last day.

Cute dress (Thanks Jen)

Eating is fun!

Is she upset about dinner or about her shirt?

Bedtime with Daddy

This is what happens when Shandi plays with/eats one of Genevieve's toys.

Miscellaneous Fun

2008-09-22T20:27:00.009-04:00

Genevieve had THE BEST time being pushed around on this toy by her buddy Sierra. She was laughing and talking the whole time. Even when she fell off, she got over it fast when Sierra picked her up and put her back on!

Check out my teeth!

These were her 9 month pictures:

Showing off her large noggin! Huge, but super cute!

You can only torture a baby for so long...

Where Did She Learn This?

2008-09-16T20:52:00.007-04:00

Who taught her this? Someone please step up and admit it! Auntie Phyllis, did you visit her a daycare and teach her this??? I have to admit, we crack up every single time she does this.

Not liking the grass.

Swings are fun!

Ready to go to swim class

Waiting for Daddy to come home from work

9 Months Old!

2008-09-08T20:58:00.003-04:00

Happy 9 months! We've managed to survive 9 months as parents. YIPPEE! Genevieve is crawling around like a crazy child, standing up, holding on to things and cruising. She doesn't sit still for a second.

She's 19 pounds and 27 inches (I think). She still has a giant head but it looks like it'll be on the charts in the next few months. We'll see. She has 3 teeth on the bottom that are totally in but another one on the bottom and the top 2 are coming through now.

Here's her 9 month picture with the bear. This picture gets harder and harder to take every month. This month she kept trying to dive forward off of the chair.

Cosmo's new hang out, in her toy bin.

Teething biscuits. Why didn't anyone tell me these make a giant mess? She did enjoy it but she had brown drool down the front of her outfit and all over her.

Cruising

Happy Labor Day!

2008-09-01T21:37:00.005-04:00

I've been trying to post all week but blogger isn't cooperating with me.
So for now I'll leave you with these pictures. Her 9 month pictures and stats will hopefully be up soon.

Crawling & Standing OH MY!

2008-08-25T21:22:00.005-04:00

Crawling all over the place and pulling up to standing. Let the real fun begin!

She crawled herself into a corner

Not sure why but her toy made her upset.

Eating some spinach.

Crawled over to the cabinet, opened it up, took all of the boxes of coffee out.

Visiting her pug friends.

Brian's new favorite picture

On The Move (Almost)

2008-08-17T21:31:00.005-04:00

Eating some grass for the first time

This is what happens when you can only go backwards.

It's upsetting when you back yourself into a corner and can't figure out how to get out.

Pulling herself up to stand at the table

Wearing her bowl

Like my shirt?

She finds us funny sometimes

Kayla and Genevieve at Kayla's first birthday party

Get out of my face please

Playdate 8/8/08

2008-08-08T23:13:00.002-04:00

Make an on-line slide show at www.OneTrueMedia.com

EIGHT Months Old!

2008-08-04T20:31:00.012-04:00

Genevieve had her eight month birthday on Saturday. No stats this month. We got a month off from the Doctor. I think she got taller but not heavier.

8 Months Old

7 Months Old

She feeds herself

Hanging with her 3 favorite furry friends (too bad they don't feel the same way about her).

Jenna's First Birthday is this Thursday. We celebrated on Sunday. Here are the cousins together (they're 4 months apart).

On Sunday, I went to get Genevieve from her crib...

She LOVES Food

2008-07-28T20:25:00.007-04:00

So far Genevieve hasn't refused any food. She's gobbled up everything we give her (fruits & vegetables). Lately she gets annoyed if she sees us eating. She wants what we're having too. Thank goodness for puffs to keep her entertained.

Seems like she has a special love of sour foods. Remember the Lemon?

Here's her first time having raspberries (I tasted them, they were so SOUR)

Enjoying some fake corn on the cobb

Feeding herself

Yep, we still laugh when she cries. How could you not? Look at that face

Thanks Auntie Phyllis

2008-07-21T20:28:00.006-04:00

Thanks for giving Genevieve crawling lessons. Sigh. I'm fully aware that it would happen sooner or later but I'm still blaming you!

It's going to happen SOON. When we sit her on the floor she immediately puts herself on her belly and tries to get moving. So far she's only figured out how to get across the room backwards.

I admit, I'm NOT ready for a child on the move!

Here she is in action

I thought this was a funny picture. Check out the GIANT head on the little body.

Here she is trying to crawl again

Posing with her Daddy

She loves going on these rides through the air in a standing position

Happy Girl!

2008-07-16T09:08:00.006-04:00

Does it get any better than this?

Yep, she's in the dog bed

Little baby, BIG Carseat!

7 Months Old (+ one week)

2008-07-09T21:28:00.005-04:00

Genevieve's 7 month doctor appointment was today. She's doing great. The doctor said she's extremely strong and will probably be an early crawler (I wasn't too thrilled with this news. I'm not ready for a mobile child even though Auntie Phyl was trying to teach her to crawl last week).

Here are her stats:
Weight: 17.8 pounds (up 1 pound from last month)
Height: 26 inches (same as last month)
Head: 18 centimeters (same as last month...thank goodness)

The monthly picture with the bear was a little different this month. She was having a lot of fun, laughing but she wanted to eat the bear. You can see what I mean:

You can see the previous months bear picture HERE

Here are a couple of pictures I forgot to post. The first two are from vacation. Taking a bath in the duck tub.

Brian found her sleeping like this the other night with her butt up in the air.

Life's a Beach Part 2

2008-07-08T00:01:00.003-04:00

Phyllis took these awesome pictures while we were down the shore.

Take notice of her shirt in this one

Life's a Beach

2008-07-07T06:52:00.008-04:00

Genevieve had her first vacation last week in Wildwood. Unfortunately the ocean was way too cold to take her in.

Ready to go to the beach

At the beach in front of her tent

She looks so tiny on the HUGE beach

Hanging out in the tent

Going to the beach is exhausting

Little girl in a big chair. She wants to eat the ice cream.
Loves wearing Daddy's hat

Loves frozen grapes

Napping with Sierra

John, Phyllis, Sierra, & Zach went on this crazy ride that shoots you up in the air

John & Zach ready to go

Phyllis & Sierra ready to go

Sleeping on the Job

2008-06-23T19:48:00.005-04:00

Brian got out of the shower this morning and found this

Our independent little girl wants to feed herself

She wanted the camera too

And finally, what happened to the helpless little baby that seemed way too tiny for the huge tub? This was from her first bath

And this was from her bath on Saturday

New Tricks

2008-06-18T20:55:00.005-04:00

Genevieve has learned a few new tricks this week.

Food is going better. She's had sweet potato, mango, apples, pears, bananas, green beans, peas. Next on tap is peaches and beets. All homemade by me. She actually gets excited when she sees the container and the spoon!

She likes to put things on her head lately

She kept this on her head for a while. And she seemed rather proud of her accomplishment!

I wish I had video of this one. She was in the bouncer (not strapped in, I was sitting with her). She wiggled herself down until her feet, then her butt hit the floor and then she just sat up. She laughed the whole time.

These are two funny pictures I forgot to post from the aquarium.

Tonight there were two rainbows out back

Happy Father's Day!

2008-06-15T20:03:00.006-04:00

Happy First Father's Day to my wonderful husband and to Genevieve's favorite person!

This is the present she made him at daycare on Friday
She couldn't wait for her Daddy to open his first father's day presents on Sunday morning.

Our little girl is getting so good at sitting up!
We tried the safe feeder today. She really liked it. She's starting to really like any kind of food we give her!

Getting ready for a nap with Duke.

Getting ready to go out to dinner on Saturday.

Perhaps the best picture of the weekend. She LOVES lemons!

Little Lady

2008-06-12T21:40:00.002-04:00

I guess Genevieve is too young to understand the concept of being a lady. Her new trick is when she is wearing a dress she pulls it up over her head, cracks up lauging and then pulls it down. She even did this in the diner when I was out to lunch with my Dad. I guess she likes showing off that cute belly!

At the Aquarium. The Hippo, Phyllis, & Genevieve.

Sierra, Zach, and Genevieve

Frankenstein

2008-06-05T07:40:00.006-04:00

Went to the dr yesterday for Genevieve's six month visit and some more shots.

Here are her SIX MONTH STATS:
Weight: 16.8 pounds 62nd percentile
Height: 26 inches 71st percentile
Head: And then there's her head. She has one huge head (which is why this post is called Frankenstein). Her head is 18 centimeters. I can't give a percentile for it because it's not even on the charts.

She's still not really into the food thing

But she does like to chew on the spoon

Our little escape artist

Genevieve's 1/2 Birthday!

2008-06-02T01:01:00.000-04:00

Holy cow time really flies! My Mom used to say when it seems like time goes by fast it means you're getting old. Thanks Mom, I guess it's true!

I really can't believe we have a SIX MONTH OLD!!!
Happy 1/2 Birthday to our Vizzle!

Here are her monthly pictures with the pink bear.
6 months

5 months

4 months

3 months

2 months

One month

Happy Birthday Mom

2008-05-28T21:04:00.005-04:00

Happy Birthday Mom!

I wish you were here and we could all celebrate your birthday together. I know how much you would have enjoyed celebrating with your granddaughters.

I miss you! I miss you more than words could ever explain.

I love you and I love my little girl just like you loved me.

Memorial Day Weekend

2008-05-27T22:05:00.009-04:00

We had a very busy and FUN Memorial Day Weekend. Saturday we had Jay, Christi, Chris and Mary over with their kids. We had a great time. All of the kids played so nice together. Monday we went to the Turtle Back Zoo with Jay, Christi and their boys. Another great day. I'll post pictures from both below.

Here's a video of Genevieve talking to me Saturday Morning

From Saturday

Genevieve, Julia, & John

I think she really wanted some pizza

How cute is this? Lucas & Julia holding hands!

Brian with Genevieve and Mary with John

Pictures from the zoo

And I'll leave you with a few giggles from the most tickelish baby

Happy Birthday Brian!

2008-05-22T21:04:00.005-04:00

Happy 35th Birthday Brian!
Here's Genevieve and the present she bought her Daddy.

Later she got hungry and snacked on her toes

Aquarium

2008-05-18T20:44:00.000-04:00

We went to the boardwalk & aquarium today with John, Phyllis, Sierra, & Zach.
Genevieve really seemed to enjoy the aquarium.

Here she is posing as a seal

Zach, Sierra, & Genevieve

First time in the big stroller (Thanks Joanna & Chris)!

My favorite picture from this weekend

Bloated

2008-05-16T11:23:00.003-04:00

Ever feel completely full and bloated after a big meal?
Does your belly feel like this?

Have you ever seen such a ridiculous belly?

Mother's Day

2008-05-11T20:41:00.009-04:00

Today was my first Mother's Day. It's the first Mother's Day in seven years thta I have something to celebrate. It was a really nice day. We went to brunch at Genevieve's God Parent's house (Joanna & Chris). Genevieve made me a wall hanging at daycare on Friday and a card (see pics below). She (and Brian) got me a heart locket with all three of our birthstones inside. It's beautiful.

I hoped this Mother's Day would be a little easier than the last seven but I think it was actually harder. Not that I don't miss my Mom everyday but today I missed her more than ever. I kept thinking of how nice it would be for the three of us to celebrate today together. I'm sorry for my Mom and for Genevieve that they'll never get to get to know each other. And for whoever actually reads this, sorry to be a downer but I had to get that out.

This is what Genevieve made me in daycare. She was the only baby that didn't cry when they painted her feet.

She wanted to eat the box before giving it to me.

This is the locket, bad picture but you get the idea.

Uncle Joe & Aunt Rosanna

Hanna & Genevieve

Saturday was Hanna's first Communion.

Hanna, Phoebe, & Jack

The three of us

Vizzle..opps I mean Genevieve posing for a caricature.

FIVE Months Old! (and 5 days)

2008-05-07T21:34:00.004-04:00

Wow we have a five month old! Funny thing is we still don't feel like parents :-) I don't think that's a bad thing!

Everything was great at her 5 month dr visit.

She gained 1/2 a pound since last month, now 15 pounds (50th percentile) and grew 3/4 of an inch, now 25 3/4 inches (85 percentile).

Five Months Old

Four Months Old

Three Months Old

Two Months Old

One Month Old

And here's a picture of her sleeping the other night. Does this look comfortable?

All Dressed Up

2008-05-04T20:28:00.007-04:00

Sierra's Communion was on Saturday. It was a great excuse to for Genevieve to wear a pretty dress. Sierra looked so beautiful like the little princess that she is. I'll post a picture when I get one from Phyllis. Unfortunately, I forgot to get a picture of Sierra and Genevieve together.

Here's G in her party dress complete with a little pink hairbow.

She's ready for a her close up

Almost ready to go to bed

She's not interested in food but she's figured out how to drink out of a cup!

A few random funny faces.

And we'll leave you with a BIG SMILE!

Bunch Of Stuff

2008-04-29T22:37:00.006-04:00

Welcome to the world Sara Marie King! Pat & Kathryn welcomed their little girl into the world last Tuesday. Congratulations Pat & Kathryn! Here is the adorable little peanut (she was 6 pounds and change)

Smiles

Lately she lights up whenever her Daddy is around. He just walks into a room and she puts on a HUGE smile. She loves when he makes a "fish face". She was cracking up here. We have to get her ridiculous laugh on video.

Still Eating Everything!

Bumbo Fun!
For more bumbo fun check out Ready Set Bumbo It's hysterical!

Does it get any sweeter than this? I think this might be my new favorite picture.

Good Night!

Spring & Summer HATS!

2008-04-23T09:31:00.008-04:00

I bought Genevieve some spring & summer hats last weekend. She wasn't very thrilled with them. I think she's confused by being able to see the big brims.

This one cracks me up. She's trying so hard to see the hat.

If only she could talk...she'd probably curse me out for taking these pictures.

OH I also got her some hair bows!

These are my Mom's Sisters, Aunt Elaine on the left and Aunt Franny on the right. This was at my neice, Jenna's christening on Sunday. Unfortunately, Genevieve was in a foul mood so they only got to play with her for a few minutes.

This is my brother Michael (holding Jenna), his wife Kim on the left of Jenna, and Jenna's Godparents.

EAT IT!

2008-04-17T21:08:00.006-04:00

If she can grab it she can eat it (well try to eat it). She does get mad if she attempts to put something in her mouth but can't fit it. Here she is with her toy elephant from Phyllis & John. She's thinking I wonder if I can chew on this thing.

It's now getting closer to her mouth

And there it goes, she almost has it.

She eats her jacket too.

And some random cuteness

Check out the belly

Everyone always says she's the most smiley baby. Once in a while she does have a good meltown. Here are two pictures mid-meltdown

And we didn't forget about our pile of pugs

Who Does She Look Like?

2008-04-14T21:16:00.003-04:00

Leave a comment (you don't need to log in or anything). Let us know who you think Genevieve looks like. I think she looks like Brian in this picture.

These are from the NJRC meeting on Sunday

All day meeting=tired baby

Thanks for the great pictures Phyl!

NOT Hungry

2008-04-09T18:00:00.003-04:00

The ped said we can start cereal since Genevieve doubled her birth weight and met the other required milestones. We gave it two tries. She's not interested at all. We didn't think she was ready yet so now we're going to hold off and wait at least another month. It was an opportunity for a few interesting pictures at least.

First try:

She was much happier eating her bib:

Second Try:

As you can see this didn't go over very well:

She started laughing at the funny looking baby in the mirror

One of our 3 "family" pictures

New Hats!

2008-04-05T08:23:00.004-04:00

I have a slight obsession with baby hats. I got these two from CHARBRIDGE WOOLEN CO. They are hand made and beautiful. You can find anything you can imagine on Etsy. I think Genevieve might have been a little confused by them.

I don't think she really liked the mohawk I gave her in the bath the other night.

In other news, we survived our first week (3 days) of daycare and me being back at work. Call me a horrible mother for saying this, but it felt good to be back at work. Brian did great with drop off in the morning and I got to pick up Ms. Crankypants in the afternoon. She had a hard first day, cried the entire day. But by Friday she finally ate a little bit there, napped, was smiling all day. I think by the end of week two we should all be settled in.

FOUR Months Old!

2008-04-02T11:44:00.003-04:00

Today Genevieve is FOUR MONTHS OLD!
She's gone from being a peanut to now being above average.

Here's her stats:
Weight: 14.5 pounds. 70th percentile!
Height: 25 inches. 85th percentile!

And here are the monthly pictures:
FOUR Months:

THREE Months:

TWO Months:

ONE Month:

First Day at Daycare

2008-04-01T08:07:00.000-04:00

Yesterday was Genevieve's first day at daycare. Brian dropped her off in the morning and I picked her up. She had a rough day. She didn't really eat there and was exhausted when she got home. I'm sure by then end of next week she'll be used to her new routine and new surroundings.

Here are some pictures Brian took in the morning before they left.

Tuesday was off to daycare. Wednesday we're off to the doctor for her 4 month check up and shots. Poor kid is going to have a tough week.

YAY Cosmo!

2008-03-31T16:17:00.008-04:00

Up until now, Cosmo avoided Genevieve the best he could. If we put her near him, he would run away. Today was the first time I put Genevieve on Cosmo and he didn't move!

After her bath last night with her Daddy.

Playing in the exersaucer. I think she looks like Brian here.

Here she is in the jumperoo. She hasn't quite figured out what to do but she really does enjoy eating the seat.

This is her new trick. I always put her back facing the TV.

I went to the bathroom, came back and she turned herself around and was watching TV. No more TV for Genevieve!

There's that thumb again!

Good or Bad?

2008-03-27T09:49:00.003-04:00

Is this good or bad? I got out of the shower yesterday morning and this is what I found on the couch. Personally I think it's adorable. I know my father, and a few others, would be totally appalled (but he has no internet so haha).

This is from bath time last night. Bath time is usually a Brian & Genevieve thing but he's been working late a lot lately and I've actually had to give her a bath a few times. I think I'm over my fear of bathing her. She likes to try to eat the bubbles.

The Week in Pictures

2008-03-25T20:46:00.007-04:00

Can you belive in this picture she's wearing the pajamas we brought her home from the hospital in? At first, we thought she was only growing in her cheeks. This weekend I packed up her newborn stuff and realized wow, she rew a ton.

These are from this morning.

First sleeping beauty...

She's awake!

And HAPPY!

Bath time!

Napping on the pugs

Forget the hat, eating hands are way more exciting!

She LOVES the orange & red cow

This one is for Phyl, see what happens when I pinch her?

Can you guess what she's doing in this picture?

And finally, our snuggle pugs

Happy Easter

2008-03-23T20:56:00.002-04:00

Happy Easter Everyone!
I know this picture was posted before, but I thought it was worthy of a repost.
Hope you all had a great day!

Thursday Smiles

2008-03-20T19:09:00.003-04:00

Genevieve was VERY smiley today (thank goodness, after being a complete pickle yesterday).

Even though this picture didn't come out clear, it's my favorite one from this morning. Duke was sniffing her face and she cracked up

The biggest smile of all

And finally, she was starting to get bored.

Morning Fun

2008-03-18T09:45:00.004-04:00

She's generally the happiest in the morning. Today she played with Shandi a little bit. I think they're trying to make the same face in this picture:

This is from yesterday afternoon. She finally reached out for a few of the toys.

Hanging out with two of her pug friends, Shandi and Cosmo

There's that damn thumb again

Checking out her Easter card

And finally I think she's a bit drunk here

The Pugs Are Safe!

2008-03-11T22:16:00.005-04:00

I used to dress up the pugs and take ridiculous pictures of them. It seems I don't torment them any more and have moved on to playing dress up and tormenting Genevieve with the camera.

Seems my attempts to prevent this from happening have failed. Sigh.

First time playing in her exersaucer.

Chilling in her new Elmo chair that Aunt Elaine bought for her.

I finally dressed her in something other than pink or lavender.

How adorable is this picture of Sierra touching Genevieve's head?

And finally, this is how she feels about playing dress up and taking pictures:

Christening

2008-03-09T08:32:00.001-04:00

Genevieve's Christening was on Saturday. It was a very beautiful ceremony given by our friend Deacon Bill. It was really nice to have such a personal ceremony. Bill even made a reference to Kiss.

Genevieve's dress and bonnet was made from my wedding gown. It was such a good use for my dress and of course she looked adorable.

Genevieve with her Godparents Chris & Joanna

This is a cookie from Anything Cookies. Lauren the owner/baker does an amazing job. As always they were a huge hit. Who would've thought you could fit Genevieve on a cookie. If you ever need cookies contact her at lauren.vitkovsky@gmail.com

Three Month Stats

2008-03-05T21:08:00.005-05:00

Three Month Ped appointment today. Genevieve has been busy growing in the last month.

Weight: 12 pounds 12 ounces, 25th percentile (last month was 10-14)
Height: 22.5 inches long, 25th percentile (last month was 21 inches)
Head circumference 16.5 inches, 97th percentile (last month was 16 inches).

She still has a big noggin.

She had one shot today and we'll just say she wasn't our usual happy baby for the rest of the day. On a brighter note, she has started to talk up a storm lately. It's really funny to listen to her babble.

Genevieve & Kayla

2008-03-03T08:16:00.000-05:00

Genevieve & Kayla met on Friday. It was so cute. Kayla was so interested in touching Genevienve. I wonder if she thought she was toy.

Genevieve and Brian (the maker of the famous Kiss Onesie)

THREE Months Old!

2008-03-02T10:14:00.001-05:00

Holy cow we have a THREE month old!
I think she's doing all of her growing in her cheeks. What do you think?

One Month:

Two Months:

Three Months:

Finally!

2008-02-27T16:52:00.003-05:00

My father has never held Genevieve until Today! Michael but Jenna on his lap for a picture and I stuck Genevieve on his other leg and snapped away!

Jenna is just about 7 months. Genevieve just about 3 months.

Aunt Nancy, Jenna, Grandma, and Genevieve.

Cute cousins, Jenna & Genevieve.

Here are a few pictures from this morning

I'd love to know what she's thinking here

First Dress

2008-02-25T07:30:00.000-05:00

We got her this adorable dress, white with little pink flowers, matching hat, fancy pants, and tights to wear to a christening.

Can you tell she was thrilled with her cute outfit?

What do you do all day?

2008-02-19T11:53:00.008-05:00

I heard Genevieve stirring in her crib this morning. I went into get her and this is how I was greeted. What could be better than going in and seeing a smiling little face (even though she was upside down)? Thankfully, this is how she wakes up every morning BIG SMILES!

After her morning bottle and diaper change, she modeled her purple boa

After the boa we moved on to the tu-tu

I think that's enough tormenting the baby for my own entertainment for one morning! It's surprising she doesn't hate me!

Happy Valentine's Day (a little late)

2008-02-17T12:03:00.002-05:00

Happy Valentine's Day from Genevieve!

Reading the card she picked out of her Dad

Sticking her tongue out when she smiles. She's a little lizard!

Baby jeans. Yep they look cute but they're not really great. They're so bulky that it's hard to have her sit upright in them.

Lately, this is the face she gives her poor Dad when he gets home from work. I remember being told that I used to do the same thing to my father when I was little. I hope it doesn't last.

New Pics From Superbowl Sunday

2008-02-16T11:50:00.000-05:00

Phyl sent me these aweseome pictures she took on Superbowl Sunday.

This is so cute. When we got to Phyl & John's house Genevieve was sleeping. So we left her in the carrier near the entrace of their house. Everyone was in another room. I went to check on her and there was Sierra sitting with her, keeping an eye on her. It was so adorable!

This is how Genevieve feels about the Giants being in the Superbowl:

She also thought the game was pretty boring.

Sierra and Genevieve smiling at each other. Too cute!

Hey Remember Us?

2008-02-14T11:40:00.000-05:00

Three little pugs. They've adjusted well to having a baby in the house. This is the kind of silly thing they do when they're feeling like they need a little extra attention and love:

Duke. His birthday is this month. He's NINE years old. I can't belive it!

Sweet face Cosmo Kramer

Crazy Shandi

Rebecca's a Tease!

2008-02-12T06:42:00.002-05:00

Rebecca and her husband Charlie came over on Saturday to do a photo shoot with Genevieve. Of course, our normally happy baby was the most miserable we've ever seen her. I guess she didn't want her picture taken. We went ahead and tortured her anyway.

Rebecca did a fabulous job and was super patient. She sent us four teaser pictures. I can't wait to see the rest! I'm so excited!

Be sure to check out Rebecca's site and her blog to see more of her amazing work! And if you need pictures for any occasion CALL HER!

Peanut

2008-02-05T06:42:00.000-05:00

We had Genevieve's Two Month appointment today. She had a bunch of shots and got her ears pierced. Yep she was pretty miserable. We thought she grew so much in the last month. Apparently not. She's a peanut.

Here are her stats:
10 pounds 14 ounces (17th percentile) at one month she was 8.15
21.5 inches long (7th percentile) at one month she was 21
Head circumference 16 inces (80th percentile)
So she has a big noggin. Who knew?

This is how she feels about the rough day she had today
(how does a two month old know how to frown?)

Two Month Picture:

Compare to her one month picture:

Napping with her best friend:

Sometimes you crack me up:

Popular Baby

2008-02-03T06:12:00.000-05:00

We had a bunch of visitors on Saturday. First Jay and Christie and their two boys, Lucas and Vincent came over. They were kind enough to take a picture of me, Brian, and Genevieve together. Yippeee, finally a picture of the 3 of us together!

Later on, Dayna, her Mom, and her two boys Cameron and Jack came over. Dayna's leaving for Chicago this week. Yep, she moving, all the way to Chicago! For those of you that don't know, I've known Dayna since she was 5 years old and I was 4. Seems like yesterday we'd call each other and say "meet me at the corner". Good Luck Dayna & Perry!

Genevieve and her Uncle Jay

Jay, Christie, Vincent, and G

Cameron kissing Genevieve. He was so adorable and funny. He says things like "she's so cute, she's so little and cute, look at how cute she is". It's hysterical coming from a five (almost 5) year old.

The first picture of the 3 of us

Sunday we went to a superbowl party at John & Phyl's. Hopefully, Phyl will send some of the pictures she took. Her "big sister" Sierra gave G lots of love.

Watching the Superbowl is exhausting:

Playing is hard work:

I love my new sunglasses

No Comments? Anyone there?

2008-02-01T09:09:00.000-05:00

Why no comments? Is anyone looking?
Click comments people. Let us know if you visit. You don't have to sign up to leave a comment. It's easy!

Here's our supermodel:

She's had enough

Playing Catch Up

2008-01-29T08:49:00.000-05:00

I haven't updated much in the last few weeks.
Here are some pictures to get caught up:

"Hey Mom, you're not as funny as you think you are"

Brian's self potrait

Sleeping with Cosmo on the couch

Smile

My father would have a stroke if he saw this picture.
Sleeping with Shandi & Duke

Playtime is fun!

Little girl, Big couch

Cry Baby

2008-01-25T08:34:00.000-05:00

She doesn't throw a fit often but when she does, it's a good one. I hate to say it but some of her cry faces are hysterical. She cries.. what do I do? Grab the camera of course. Here's a few of the cry baby faces.

I hate hats Part One:

I hate hats Part Two:

Get out of my face!

GET THIS THING OFF MY HEAD!

Genevieve ROCKS KISS

2008-01-17T13:02:00.000-05:00

Our friend Brian made Genevieve this onesie. I had to buy a matching hat and baby legs.

Here she is rockin her KISS outfit

Who Sleeps in the crib?
Not the baby but the pugs!
I still torture them and take a ton of pictures of them.

Could she look any more pathetic?

She had a good scream going on here.

3 Snuggly, sleepy pugs.

She Smiles

2008-01-16T12:49:00.000-05:00

Ok so maybe this motherhood stuff has made me a little sappy. I'd like to think it's because all of the pregnancy hormones are not out of my system yet. In the last few days Genevieve has started to smile with reason (instead of it just being gas). When she wakes up from a nap she recognizes my voice and I get a big smile. What could be beter than that?

Here are some pictures I took today.

Don't you wish you could wake up this happy?

Napping in the boppy with Shandi

We're the best parents ever.
Yep, that's a straight jacket for babies (otherwise known as the miracle blanket) and we make her sleep in it.
Go ahead, make a comment, you know you want to.

Another Day With The Ladies

2008-01-10T19:15:00.000-05:00

Today we met Laura and Patti for lunch at the diner and then visited the ladies in my office. Genevieve was awesome today. Slept straight through lunch which is always a good thing!

Here are some pictures from the day:

Getting ready to go out. She's excited can't you tell?

Karen

Laura. And Maureen was wrong,
she doesn't cry when she hears Laura's voice ;-)

Lisa - Lisa is usually the baby hog. Today she was in a class so she only got to snuggle Genevieve for a few minutes. Don't worry Lisa, I'm sure we'll be taking you up on your offer soon!

Maureen

Regina - I think Genevieve's hair is going to turn red. Hopefully it'll be this awesome red like Regina's!

Regina & Anita - now Anita's going to have the baby bug worse than ever!

Susan - Seems like yesterday Susan was in the office visiting Rob with their son, gosh that was three years ago?!?!?!?!

And once again a pug steals the boppy!

Here's her annoyed face. I think she looks exactly like Brian in these pictures.

Girls Girls Girls

2008-01-09T16:54:00.000-05:00

Today Genevieve and I stopped at Michael & Kim's to visit Jenna.

Here are some pictures of the girls together:

Cousins-Jenna (5 months old) and Genevieve (1 month old)

Holding Hands:

How cute are all of these toes?

Hey, How'd Shandi get in there?

Last night Dayna stopped by to see Genevieve.

Here's G with her Aunt Dayna:

Genevieve, Cosmo, and Dayna

Not sure what she's thinking in this picture

Weekend pictures

2008-01-07T18:57:00.000-05:00

Nothing exciting to say today so here are some pictures from the weekend and a late one from last week.

A little smile

First try at baked ziti.

Snuggle time with Cosmo.

Shandi taking care of Genevieve while she's sleeping.

Here's a birthday picture and a 1 month old picture:

Baby Jack

2008-01-06T18:54:00.000-05:00

Baby Jack passed away on January 2. If you don't know the story of baby Jack please take a minute and visit Megan's Blog about her triplets.

If you would like to make a contribution in Jack's memory, please do so to the following:

Jackson Malia Fund for special needs children
c/o James MacDonald Esq.
P.O. Box 146
Verona, N.J. 07044

Keep Jack and his family in your thoughts and prayers.

Happy New Year!

2008-01-05T06:55:00.000-05:00

We spent New Year's Eve with Phyllis, John, Sierra, & Zach (well, he was sleeping). Yes, that means we actually went out for NYE. We do leave the house with a baby (often).

Here's a picture of Genevieve and her best bud (aka big sister) Sierra:
(thanks for the outfit Aunt Kim!)

Baby feet. How cute are those little feet?

Someone hates being naked. Her Daddy hopes this never changes ;-)

Genevieve had her first shot at the pediatrician on January 2. Needless to say, she was thrilled. She's also up to 9 pounds!

What's her name?

2007-12-31T07:59:00.000-05:00

When we started telling people we were going to name our daughter Genevieve, pronounced JEN-a-veev, people always asked "What are you going to call her?" Our answer, "We're going to call her Genevieve, that's her name, sigh." I've never been big on nicknames or shortening names. For example, it irks me when people that are not close to me call me "Deb" (unless you know me from a message board, then that's a given considering my screen name).

Yep, we have some nicknames for her but they're our silly names for her. Doesn't every parent have silly names for their kid? Brian calls her Vizzle, Jen-a-vizzle, The Viz, and tender vizzle. I call her 'G' and 'cute stinky ass' but that's another story.

What does Genevieve mean? The name Genevieve is of French and German origins. Its meaning is Of the race of women, white wave, humble.

Where did we get the name Genevieve from? Don't laugh...Ever watch Trading Spaces? Genevieve Gorder is one of the designers. She's fun, easy going, down to earth, hot, and never wears shoes. Here she is:

Here's her bio:

http://tlc.discovery.com/fansites/tradingspaces/bio/gen.html

So that's the story on our daughter's name Genevieve. Good enough?

Here are some pictures of our Genevieve from the last few days:

Christmas Eve

2007-12-29T20:07:00.000-05:00

Genevieve's first Christmas Eve at Aunt Rosanna & Uncle Joe's house.

She's very excited & ready to go:

Genevieve and her cousin Jack:

Genevieve's Uncle Chris & Aunt Joanna:

With Mary

With Uncle Joe

Getting a smooch from Aunt Rosanna:

Genevieve's Cousin Hanna and Aunt Heidi

Phoebe, Jack, and Heidi

First Bath 12/23/2007

2007-12-29T20:01:00.001-05:00

First Bath today! Yippeee!
Genevieve kind of liked it. At least she didn't seem bothered by it.

Here she is getting ready for her bath:

Brian gave her a bath:

Holy cow, check out that full belly!

All wrapped up after the bath:

Rebecca Rocks!

2007-12-29T14:02:00.000-05:00

For those of you that saw our wedding photos know that Rebecca
Photography By Rebecca
is a super talented photographer. Those of you that have met her know that she's an awesome person too!

Since our wedding Brian and I have become friends with Rebecca and her husband Charlie.

She came to the hospital to visit Genevieve and I and to take some pictures. I can't thank her enough. She's not only the BEST photographer, but a great friend. Brian picked the song, which of course is by KISS. If you don't get at least a little misty eyed while watching this you seriously have no heart. Here's the link to the slideshow:

Genevieve

Thanks again Rebecca!

Catching Up - A Few Pictures

2007-12-29T11:57:00.000-05:00

Here are a few pictures taken from when we got home through just before Christmas.

Her room:

Smiling on the changing table:

First trip to the pediatrician:

Genevieve wearing her first KISS onesie that our friend Brian made:

Silly pose:

Cousins first picture together!
Jenna is 4 months and Genevieve about 10 days old.
What a difference 4 months makes!

She looks so sweet when she's sleeping:

Three pugs and a baby:

Christmas Card photo:

Genevieve takes a nap with her Daddy:

We're Home December 5, 2007

2007-12-29T11:45:00.000-05:00

Genevieve and I were discharged from the hospital on December 5, 2007. I'm sure this sent Brian into panic mode all over again. Once again, he's kept it hidden well and never let me see him sweat!

On the way home from the hospital we went to the diner. We survived our first outing as a family of three! Then we went home and the pugs met Genevieve. We were suprised they all seem to like her. Cosmo seems a little afraid or intimidated but otherwise, all is good.

Genevieve Has Arrived 12/2/2007

2007-12-29T10:39:00.000-05:00

Genevieve arrived via c-section at 4:09pm on December 2, 2007. She was three weeks early weighing in 7 pounds 1 ounce and 18.5 inches long.

The NICU nurses took this picture for Brian to bring to me in recovery because I only got to see her for a second after she was born and taken to the NICU.

Here's another picture of Genevieve taken on December 2. All wrapped up, our little baby burrito.

How on earth did we end up here with a beautiful little baby girl?

Lets just say I didn't have the easiest pregnancy. I had gestational diabetes. Not a big deal, it was managable; I learned how to eat right. I started swelling early on. I think I've only worn flip flops since the summer and I'm still wearing them now in December.

My pregnancy was considered high risk because of the gestational diabetes so I had a million doctors appointments and ultrasounds. On Tuesday, November 27th I was at the ob. Everything was fine at that appointment. On Thursday, November, 29th I had a high risk appointment. Boy things change in an instant. They didn't let me leave the office. They called for a wheel chair and carted me off to the hospital. My blood pressure was high and my kidneys and liver weren't working. I would later learn that I developed preeclampsia and HELLP Syndrome. I called Brian crying hysterically telling him that I was being admitted and wouldn't be going home until she was born.

My amazing husband some how managed to stay calm and kept me calm during my hospital stay. I know on the inside he had to be freaking out but he never let me know it.

Here is Brian and his little princess on December 3rd:

Here are some pictures of some of the vistors we had in the hospital. Unfortunately, we didn't get a picture of everyone that came to visit.

Aunt Franny & Uncle Arty:

Joanna: