The Florescu Family

putting it into perspective.

2011-10-25T22:13:00.005-04:00

I was sitting and talking with a friend yesterday, well, basically venting to a friend. A week without my husband and a day of running around with a couple of kids all over town was enough to put me into a slump. I don't know if I can say that my eyes were open or that they were just looking through a pessimistic lens but at the end of the day I just wanted my husband with me and to be living somewhere outside of society...on a farm somewhere. Somewhere where time isn't wasted in a car, where the majority aren't having a bad day and wearing it on their sleeve. Somewhere where an accident is seen as just that, a mere mistake and not as evil intent to be repayed in full. A place where work would take my husband only as far as the field in the backyard. I've been craving the simplicity of a by gone era for a while now and am hit everyday by the evil in this imperfect world I'm living in. I want to run away from all of the busyness and all of the distraction and to just slow down. Then in the middle of my sulking I realized, like a fool, what it was exactly, that I was longing for....this 'farm fantasy?'...my eden...my paradise. My reality?...a fallen world filled with an uncountable number of people, all in some way or another, longing for exactly the same thing. This place doesn't feel right because it isn't. As C.S. Lewis wrote: "I was created for another world." And while that didn't make yesterday feel any better, especially when I was living it, and while, as long as life endures, injustice, hate, and the effects of sin will endure, there is a small but steady sense of peace knowing that whatever this life throws, my God is bigger than it. And that, in reality, as I've been trying to soak in from Ann Voskamp, "ALL is Grace."

I ran across this video a month or two ago and it really put things into perspective. What a sweet and powerful testimony of Grace!

This was grace

by Andrew Laparra

http://vimeo.com/11560198

fleeting moments.

2011-10-09T00:01:00.005-04:00

I'm sitting here at midnight, my head full of thoughts...emotions, all swimming around in chaos. 'Where does the time go?' The age old question pops up again and again. I'm trying so desperately to hold on to these moments, or at least I think I am, only to wake another morning where I find myself stepping once again into this race called life that most everyone seems to be in. I have a mind I cannot slow, a body I cannot still, a house I cannot maintain, and relationships that I somehow lack the time to invest in. I think I'm not alone.

Today my family celebrated a little girls' 4th birthday. Our sweet n sassy Gianni girl. :) And I wanted to soak in every last detail. I'm always torn when it comes to manning the camera. Do I sit back and observe capturing the moments in my head? Do I actively participate becoming a part of those moments? Or do I pick up my canon and capture each moment on camera? See, I love taking pictures! It makes me think creatively and I love looking for angles and cementing each moment in time. More so, I enjoy looking back on those moments that jog my ever fleeting mommy memory and allow them to stir up such wonderfully vivid emotions. But in doing so, in grabbing that little peice of technology, it almost feels like putting on a mask. You see, once my eye is behind that lense, I'm no longer a part of that moment. I'm outside of it, looking in.

It's been a long time since I last took pictures. But the memories from that last time until this are just a blurr. Time that has literally just flown by. So today I picked up the camera, that little peice of technology, like most other peices of technology that I have a love hate relationship with, and I documented a small part of a story, our story. And you know what?...it felt good...or feels good now. Looking back...slowing down...doing whatever it takes to hold onto these moments. Making memories. Feeling blessed. Thanking God for days like today...everyday.

summer blessings.

2011-07-25T23:23:00.005-04:00

new life.

2011-05-10T15:39:00.006-04:00

On Friday, May 6th at 5:37am, with the breaking of my water, baby Luci's journey into this world began. I awoke full of energy and anticipation having already passed my due date and quickly began tying up all the loose ends before contractions began. The first came on around 6:30 but had stopped by 9:00 leaving us all to wonder what the rest of this day was going to look like. After talking to my midwife and trying a few techniques to determine if and when I should head to the hospital, the contractions came on suddenly and very strongly around 12:00pm. Glad that everything had been prepared ahead of time and just needed loading into the car, we raced out the door inbetween contractions that were now almost on top of eachother and headed towards the hospital. We were checked in by 12:45 to find out I was 8cm dialated and at 2:19pm, after conquering my fear and the fact that I was quickly realizing that maybe I did not want to do this without an epidural(that and feeling this baby was indeed larger than it's sister's), our son, Lucian Dean Florescu was born. Much emotion followed. Through tears, hugs, and sighs of relief, smiles and laughter filled the room. What a huge transition one moment creates. And what a blessed moment it is when new life begins! Thank you God for new life.

Lucian Dean Florescu

May 6, 2011

2:19pm

8lbs 12oz

21in

better late than never

2010-10-31T01:21:00.002-04:00

To see a small clip of our summer vacation video on Vimeo, click here.

3

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

We've anticipated this date, we've thought about this date even before her newborn screams sent their waves for the first time in the unseen universe around us. What we did not anticipate however, was the speed with which we travelled these last 3 years... these 72 months, these 1069 days, these 25,656 hours, these 1,539,360 minutes...these 92,361,600 seconds that now separate us from that event. It truly feels like yesterday that we joyfully and tearfully welcomed her to our little family. If I were to use only one word to describe Giulianna it would have to be LOVE. Her hugs, her often heard favorite phrase: "I wanna hold you!" will forever fill my eyes with tears as I think of the sparkles in her eyes and the yearning in her voice calling out to Leslie or I. We've trully been blessed with a kind spirit, while definitely not void of a distinct personality, yet full of subtle gentleness and a deep ability to empathize, to share anyone's emotional burden and make it lighter.

We love you Giulianna and wait with wonder to see what the next year will bring in your life, praying that you will never lose the hop of joy in your step or the ever present swing at the slightest musical note floating through the air. You might be little, but those 92 million seconds you've lived so far have been full of delightful lessons and memories that we as your parents will cherish forever!

We love you!

O happy day!

The sister exchange.

Gift inspection...

Excitement...

Many hugs to follow.

waiting ever so patiently

the mod squad

posing proudly on top of straw mountain

Gianni Girl

2010-10-08T20:09:00.005-04:00

Our little Gianni girl is about to turn three and is having the privilege of a special night away at grandma and papa's to celebrate. She was beyond excited when grandma asked her if she wanted to go all by herself for the first time, as is evident in all(well almost all) of the smiling pictures. :) What a big girl she is and so full of spunk! She dances like there's no tomorrow and melts our hearts with her sweet smile. But if you cross her, watchout! haha. She'll definitely throw some sass your way but her I'm sorry's are genuine and quick to come.

We love you sweet Gianni girl!

Here we go...

2010-09-08T14:55:00.004-04:00

There were too many emotions wrapped up in today... but I'd say we were somewhere between giddy with excitement and fear of the unknown. Not Bella, of course! Too bad mommy didn't get to stay and play. Actually, it was hardest on Gianna, who was the only one without dry eyes amongst all of the familes there... demanding that we not leave without her sister! Poor little girl. To make it up to her just the two of us headed to the mall for a doughnut date. And in 30 minutes we'll get filled in on sissy's first day!

All smiles.

Peeking inside waiting for the doors to open.

Not even a glance back once she entered the room.

A Paris...

2010-08-28T19:42:00.019-04:00

I don't know what else to say. Being in a place for the first time in my life, a place so rich in history and culture, a place that, in the back of my mind, I've longed for for such a long time... it's just so surreal. Spending a week here has been amazing! There is definitely no shortage of man made monuments to see, museums to tour, shops to browse, and hidden alleys to discover. But riding again and again on the metro, looking around at hundreds of seemingly 'lost' faces amidst the crowds, I realized that this trip would have meant nothing had I not had one of the most special people in my life here to share in it with me. It has been such a memorable week, and the only thing that could have made it more special would be to have had two precious curly headed blondes here with us.

First Cafe stop waiting for our landlord to let us in.

First home style meal in the apartment.

Notre Dame at night.

The cutest little lady getting ready to dance the night away.

Quasimodo here we come...

Gargoyles view

First glimpse of the Eiffel Tower.

Crepe number 3 of 6 and counting.

Art by Constantin Brancusi: Famous Romanian artist who lived in Paris.

La Petit Cluny cafe.

The Louvre.

Most used and abused mode of transport.

Champs-Elysees toward the Arch de Triumph.

Sitting for Vladimir near Notre Dame.

Socre Coeur.

Something our little monkey can aspire too.

Pretty good, young street performers in Montemarte.

Trying to get a request for Edith Piaf in.

My own personal tour guide...

I need it.... he can find it. :)

Ringing Van Gogh.

My birthday dinner at La Marine.

From left: Tagine de Souris (Lamb w/ vegetables)

Verrine de Saumon fume (Smoked salmon w/ cream sauce)

Chateau de Java (house wine)

Our sweet ending to a busy day!

Mini Mid-Summer Vacation

2010-08-02T11:09:00.009-04:00

Many many thanks to the Zurlinden family who were so kind to invite us to join them at their cottage on Lake Michigan! It was absolutely gorgeous and very relaxing.... just what the Dr. ordered! Manu and I, having never been to the west side of the state, just couldn't get over how beautiful and close it all was. It was the perfect little mid-summer vacation and we definitely plan on doing it again!

Another fab five photo shoot

2010-05-31T19:32:00.011-04:00

We're spending the week in Flint and to kick it off we had a long overdue photo shoot of the kids. The weather cooperated perfectly, not too hot, not too cold, and the rain held off until we were through. While we're here, counting down the last 11 days of daddys' busniess trip, we plan to play outside all day, chase bugs, hold toads, and get covered in dirt and sand... it's a tough job, but somebody's gotta do it! :)

Five little monkey's hanging on the fence...

Move over buddy, I'm the oldest!

Appearing in birth order for a limited time only, from left to right:

Bella, Carter, Jack, Gianna, and Abby

What did I tell ya? You blink and they're all mixed up again!

The piggy pile

Bring on the summer fun

2010-05-24T15:14:00.005-04:00

Well it seems that out of nowhere summer has arrived and it is HOT! We are enjoying every minute of it. Of course with daddy still in Japan and preschool out, we have plenty of time to do so. As long as the activities don't wear out in the next 17 days, we should be good to go. And with a zoo membership and the warren fountains around the corner, I don't see that happening. Hope everyone is enjoying this awesome weather! Go and get wet!

The girls first visit to the zoo this year.

Last minute sleepover with their buddies...they were a little excited!

Trying desperately to cool off at Baskin Robbins.

Fun at the warren fountains...

Easter in Amish Country

2010-04-05T22:53:00.009-04:00

This year we were able to steal Grandma and Papa and run away to Holmes county for the Easter weekend. It was a great little get away and the girls especially enjoyed getting to play all day outdoors doing nothing in particular. There was a lot of hide-n-seek, egg hunting, horse n buggy watching and role playing, which included Arliss and Travis and the chucking of rocks, of course. But no one was injured (too seriously) and we're all back home recharged with smiles on our faces ready to enjoy the rest of our spring break week. Hope everyone had a blessed Easter! Enjoy this gorgeous spring weather!

The pictures don't do justice. These horses were massive and so beautiful!

Gianna was so precious when she got to hold this baby goat! She struck this pose and didn't move for at least a minute (which is saying something for her).

Opening Easter goodies sent by Nana & Poppy.

On the egg hunt...

Gianna and her Grandma trying to catch and wave at every single Horse n buggy either on their way back home or to town (and trust me, she knew which way was which).

Horse gazing... and day dreaming.

We've got enough memories to last until our next visit, that's for sure.

Generations

2009-10-06T18:37:00.012-04:00

Here are the most recent pictures of the cousins. Grandma and Great Grandma came to us this time and we were able to take another round of 5 generation pictures with babies 3, 4, and 5 (aka: Jack, Gianna, and Abby)! A little chaotic, and definitely trying on the eardrums at times, but a good and memorable day none the less!

Five for five is not too bad!

Looking just like her daddy

Gaylin and Grandma came all the way from KS

Gianna's a little protective when it comes to kissing...

or even holding hands, for that matter

It's only allowed if given from her!

Yay! Mama's happy we got some decent decent shots

for Christmas cards!

Papa and Grandma: The photog's for the day.

Jackson getting some daddy time.

3 sets of 5 generations and 1 set of four = a crowd

All done and ready to go in!

All smiles for Abby despite the nap-less afternoon!

First year Gardener's

2009-10-06T17:45:00.015-04:00

Our first year... We've learned a lot and will do some things differently next year but all in all I'd say it was a success!

The girls had a blast in the dirt and I loved being able to tell Isabella that I needed some lettuce for a salad, her disappearing for five minutes, and then returning with a skirt full of leaves ready to be washed (which she was all too eager to do as well)! Gianna's favorite was, of course, the juicy, ripe, red: "tomatoes a garden", as she called them.

Below are a few pictures to take you from the very beginning after the girls and I planted seeds in milk jugs, all the way to the harvest. Enjoy!

Leek sprouts

Baby Tomatoes

Transferring to the Garden

Growing and looking good

Just what we've been waiting for!

Plenty to go around...

Anxious to try the Potato-Leek soup recipe from

Chef Eddie and Martha's Kitchen!

Summer fun photoshoot

2009-08-21T13:56:00.012-04:00

Ok, so I've been reminded that as of lately, I've not been taking many pictures. I'm not sure what it is. Just the busyness of life, or the bulkiness of having to drag the camera around. Most of the time I just snap shots here and there with my phone. Anyway, someone had asked for a photo of Gianna when I realized I don't have any current ones. Decent, frame-able ones anyway. So a few weeks ago, we were having one of our last summer hurrah's in Flint, the girls were somewhat matching and having fun in Grandma's flower bed after church so I ran for my dads' camera. The sun was going down so many of them were blurry but at least a couple were of Gianna without her scrunched up 'sun face'! LOL. And Bella is now finally cooperating with the camera, at least during a small window of time, to be determined by her of course! So below is the result, and Nana, I'll have one of Gianna on the way shortly! :)

We are all doing pretty good here. Aside from Manuel's sprained ankle and my headaches, which both seem to be improving, we have nothing to complain about. Thank you for your prayers! We are reaping more rewards from our garden now and loving it! The girls especially as, hopefully, you'll be able to see in the short video clip I'm trying to add to this post. We are outside as much as the weather allows, playing in the new sandbox that daddy built, swinging on the new swingset, or riding bikes. I'm enjoying every minute of these last few weeks of summer and we're all looking forward to fall when Bella will go to 4 year old preschool. She's pretty excited about it. Gianna and I even get to go to school together one day just down the hall from her! Enjoy!

Speedy Travelers

2009-07-19T22:49:00.008-04:00

About the monthly blogging bit... I lied. I can't believe we are already in the third week of July! And what's sad is that Bunicu's month long visit with us has already come and gone! It was a great visit, for us and for him and we're looking forward to having him back with us again, hopefully, this winter. My Romanian, and the girls', got better throughout the month. Now we just need to convince him to come stay a year and we should all be fluent! haha!

What was even more special than Bunicu's visit was that we all got to celebrate 4 special family days together: Manu's birthday, Bella's birthday, Father's Day, and Bunicu's 60th birthday!!! With those events and Manu traveling 2 weeks for work it was quite a busy and fun time and I am sooo glad that the girls got to spend this time with their Bunicu! For Giulianna, the first time!

A few other firsts from the months: Bella got a pet corn snake she named Moses. I am happy to say that almost a month later he's alive and doing well! We also got to eat the first veggies from our garden! Not sure if it's all in our head, but they tasted delicious!!!

Oh and I almost forgot, Giulianna is sleeping in a big girl bed! Actually it's still her crib, I just took the front rail off after a successful night in the toddler bed at grandma and papa's. You can't see it real well, but at the very end there's a little video of how I found her the first night at home! lol! She was sound alseep, we never heard a peep out of her...pretty cute!

Daddy turns 35!

Bella & Moses

Giving Bunicu his Father's Day gift...

A hand painted picture from Bella

Sweet!

Gianna's "Cheese" face

Licking candles from Bunicu's cake(wearing the dresses he brought)

Pumping water the old fashioned way

at Cross Roads Village

Craft time at the one room school house

She was so proud getting to pick her own salad!

so proud that she ate it too! :)

The Month of May

2009-06-01T16:05:00.012-04:00

Well it seems that we're becoming monthly bloggers so here's a little about our month of May. It was busy with the end of Bella's preschool year and a little lonely with daddy gone for half of it but memorable just the same...Happy June everyone! There are some pretty cute video's I hope to have time to edit and get up this month... our busy, busy birthday month... so we'll see!

Both Bella & Gianna are outdoor girls!

Bella would stay all day turning over rock after rock if she could!

We got a glimpse of 'Daddy Bird' bringing more twigs for his nest in our cherry tree

Bella and Mommy on 'Mom's Day' at preschool

Bella going through the car wash on her big wheels at school

...just as fun on foot!

Brushing "teef, teef" as Gianna says

Major bed head! haha

Pushing sissy at Grandma & Papa's

We took a picnic of sushi to the park the day before daddy left for Japan...

and dreamt of all the wonderful food he was having while he was away!

Snuggling with Daddy before his big trip

Gianna after finding a great mud puddle next to Sasha's house in the backyard...

surprisingly the shoes cleaned up well!

My happy "Good morning" girl!

Our garden project

Gianna helping with the cucumbers

"dig, dig, digging"

and Bella having a wonderful time with a piece of string by the fence! haha

Special Times...

2009-04-13T20:32:00.014-04:00

Hope everyone had a great Easter weekend! Ours was crazy busy but more special than ever! Definitely one to remember! We had all of my family and all 5 little ones down for the weekend that started with the 'Eggstravaganza' Saturday morning. The kids had a blast making all of the crafts (along with big messes of glue, glitter, and sequins). After that they sat for an Easter story and skit and then it was time for egg hunt #1. Bella kept busy finding, re-hiding and then finding the eggs all over again!

But as great as Saturday was, Sunday was even better! It was our first Easter Sunday spent with our new church family and the first time Manuel spoke as well. The day just couldn't have been more perfect! From our worship time to the scriptures read, God was definitely among us! Probably amplified for me because I was able to share it with my own family as well! If you're interested in hearing Manu's message you can download it from our church website: www.troychurch.net

After the service we all packed up the caravan and headed to Nana and Poppy's for dinner and egg hunt #2. You'll see some precious photos below of the kids loving on their Nana and Poppy....very special times! Thank you God for such an awesome weekend centered around your son!!!

Nana with two of her girls

Bella loving on her Poppy

The Rhoads family, looking good!

hmm... so this is why Gianna's basket was so full!

Just a little help from daddy (look at that determination) haha!

Uncle JJ & Jack explaining away

Carter & Bella checking out their finds

Gianna & Grandma stopping to smell the flowers

Spring is here!

2009-03-25T13:27:00.012-04:00

Sorry about posting so many pictures but we have had quite the case of spring fever around here and I just had to share! We've been having lots of fun playing outside and have almost made up for our winter of hibernation. Gianna has 'outSIDE' down pat and if there are shoes or coats lying around, she's got them on and is ready to go! :) Last season seems soooo long ago and the girls have changed so much! They are real playmates now and I can't wait to see them enjoying all of the things this season has in store for them! Enjoy and Happy Spring to everyone!

My Valentine!

2009-02-13T11:37:00.005-05:00

Even though Bella was sick and had to miss her first Valentine's Day party at school this year, we worked hard to make 17 little valentine's cards for all her school friends and had a lot of fun (and a LOT of practice) doing it! Then yesterday, our very sweet mail lady Miss Glenda dropped off something special for the girls. Below are a few pictures of them enjoying and sharing their suckers from Miss Glenda! Hope everyone has a Happy Valentine's Day tomorrow, we'll be laying low with our little Valentine's!

Just gotta dance!

2009-01-10T23:43:00.003-05:00

A little video of snippets from the past few weeks. Proof that these girls and their daddy, just gotta dance (mommy too, but since I run the camera, you won't get that on tape... good thing).

Holiday photos...

2009-01-04T21:39:00.013-05:00

Happy New Year! We had a great holiday and are now ready to get back into the swing of things. Isabella's ballet class starts back up tomorrow and she is all ready to go with her new outfit. She loves it so much, she'd live in it daily... and has for the past week! Giulianna had a great time as well and is so cute trying to imitate everything we say and do these days. Yesterday, after Bella was put in timeout, Giulianna walked into the corner and preceded to have the same mock fit her sissy just had! We couldn't help but laugh (wished I'd caught it on tape). Hope everyone had a great start to 2009! And here's just a few photos for you to enjoy!

Pretty little princesses

our wonderful attempts at group photos...

Story time with Nana

Matching cousins

The Soup and Bread man is all set!

Christmastime.

2008-12-20T21:06:00.006-05:00

We are all enjoying the festivities of the season! From putting up the Christmas tree, to making cookies, to sledding after our first major snow storm, it definitely is a blessed time of year! Bella has begun to really understand the meaning of Christmas and I love just watching her try to put it all together! I have a few clips of her giving me her take on 'the story' that I'll try to get up soon. Today, after the plows finally made it down our road, Aunt Roxy and Uncle Marty came over and we all ventured out for our first sledding adventure. We had a great time but Gianna didn't care for it that much. Besides the fact that she could hardly move in her new suit and boots, mommy took her down the first time and got snow all over her face. So that about did it for her, poor girl... bad mommy. Bella loved it and I wished I'd taken more pictures but I decided on actually sledding myself and thought it safer for the camera to stay in the car. Hope everyone is staying safe and warm and enjoying the holidays! Have a Merry Merry Christmas!!!

Getting ready for Christmas!

2008-12-03T14:08:00.007-05:00

December is here! We hope everyone is having a fun time gearing up for the Holidays! We've just put up the tree and all the trimmings and the girls can't keep their hands off them! Haha! Bella woke up from her nap just the other day and the first thing out of her mouth was, "Mommy, do you know we have Christmas?! I love Christmas!" She's not sure what's about to happen but she knows it's got to be good. And with her fascination for all things glittery, she was besides herself when I brought out all the decorations. We got a window Nativity scene as a gift last year and now everyday she has to rearrange them on the window. Currently we have two little birds and a drummer boy in the manger with baby Jesus! :) Giulianna is loving all the lights! That and trying to remove all the icicles from the tree when I'm not looking. And they both love to spin and dance to the musical ornaments. It is so much fun to watch them in all their excitement... even more than past years! We wish everyone a safe and happy holiday season and many many blessings!

Celebration of Life.

2008-10-11T21:30:00.000-04:00

Birthday Girl

2008-10-09T16:55:00.008-04:00

Our precious Giulianna Sofia turns 1 today as of 11:39am! We can hardly believe it! She is as sweet as can be and is such a tremendous joy in our lives. We thank God everyday for the blessings he's given us and at the top of the list are our beautiful girls! Giulianna is just coming alive these days...which I realize I've said before at different stages but now more than ever! She is toddling all over the place and always in such a happy and expressive manner! Life is getting more exciting by the minute as we are able to watch the girls interact with each other on ever increasing levels! What a fun job I have!!!

There'll be a 1 year video to follow...should be up tonight or tomorrow...stay tuned!

a little bit of this... a little bit of that...

2008-09-30T10:46:00.001-04:00

Just wanted to throw up a few favorite photos before it was time to start posting about a little girl soon to be ONE! So here's a hodge podge of the last few weeks...

"American Idol here I come!" ...Bella in performance mode.

Our little biologist in training...ever searchig for new critters.

The last day's of summer...

Showing off her new 'writing' skills...and what a story she tells!

Mmm mmm good!

I have just a few helpers in the kitchen these days...haha!

Jewels from Miss Sue

2008-09-25T00:24:00.006-04:00

Grandma came bearing gifts the other day and Bella was besides herself!!! Miss Sue, also known as 'Snow White', came across a treasure chest filled with all the things little girls dream of and was so sweet to think of Bella! She's had a ball playing with it... and gets compliments on her wonderful jewels wherever she goes! haha! Here's a few pictures and a little video of her reaction... if it loaded properly. I was having problems downloading it to blogger and may have to try uploading it again. Thanks again Miss Sue!!!

Our Little 'Romerican'

2008-09-18T10:46:00.006-04:00

For her birthday this year Bella recieved her first traditional Romanian outfit from her Bunicu in Romania. So after mommy and daddy had a few lessons from Aunt Roxy on how to wear it we are finally able to post some pictures! Thanks Aunt Roxy! And thank you Bunicu!!! We are now ready for a preschool show-n-tell... bring on the Panflute and Mamaliga!

"Watch out world, here I come!"

2008-09-12T01:11:00.002-04:00

Here's a cute little video from back in May that I'm just finally getting around to posting.

Off to school

2008-09-02T13:00:00.012-04:00

Bella's first day of Preschool...I can hardly believe it!!! We started the day bright and early at 7:00 am. The morning went well and we even arrived with 5 minutes to spare (which is definitely saying something for us non-morning people)! Bella clung to my leg right before I left but it didn't last long. As soon as she saw the other kids going to sit in the welcome circle, she was off to join them. I stayed in the back of the room just for a minute, excited for her and curious about what was going to happen next. Then the teacher called for all the "bunnies" and she was gone, without even a glance back in my direction. I was so proud of her but now I think I'm the one with the separation anxiety, haha!

Daddy got to go and pick her up at noon and she was beyond excited to see him! Manu said as soon as she did she yelled out, "Look everyone, that's my daddy!!!" The teachers said she did great and Manu said she looked like she was right in her element! When she got home she was excited to show me the picture she'd made and I of course asked too many questions!

While Bella was away having fun, Giulianna and I went for a story-time at the mall and enjoyed some time, just the two of us. I was surprised to see how slow the time went by but I'm sure this will change once we get used to it. All in all it's been a great day, the girls are asleep, and we'll be ready to do it all over again on Thursday!

Conversations with Grandma

2008-08-22T21:18:00.007-04:00

Bringing a Romanian storybook and placing it in grandma's lap Bella asks:
"Grandma, are you Romanian?"
Grandma replies: No, are you?
Bella: Yeah.
Grandma: How much Romanian are you?
Bella pauses, a little confused.
Grandma rephrases: What is daddy?
Bella: Romanian.
Grandma: And what is mommy?
Bella: American.
Grandma: So what does that make you?
Bella, emphatically replies: "ROMERICAN!"

hahaha! We know we all speak "ringlish" here at our house, we just needed our three year old to clarify the nationality!

ain't gonna paint no more.

2008-08-20T15:27:00.004-04:00

That's what we say but there ain't NO WAY that she ain't gonna paint no more! :)

Let's Dance!

2008-08-05T17:16:00.003-04:00

If you give a mouse a cookie...

2008-07-31T21:58:00.002-04:00

Tonight we went to see If you give a mouse a cookie at the meadowbrook theatre. It was pretty cool and they kept it short and sweet, which was very nice, especially for the 3 year old and 9 month old attention spans we brought along with us! Gianna was actually paying attention part of the time and yelling trying to get everyone else's attention! Bella was interested a little more after meeting some mouse friends and getting turned into one...that is until she spotted some new playmates up by the gate and from then on only wanted to race up and down the hill with them. Ah well, all in all it was a fun night out...and you can't beat the $5 tickets!

Summer

2008-07-12T14:09:00.024-04:00

We are having a great and event filled summer with the girls keeping us as busy as ever! Isabella, I would say, is still flying high from her birthday and we are now in the middle of her first independant swim class without mommy or daddy. She is such a little fish and loves the water but has a little trouble containing her excitement long enough to give her teachers her undivided attention. She still seems to think that mommy is paying for two weeks of 'free-time' in the water but I'm sure we'll get there...I hope! :) We are still going through the 'I can do it all by myself phase' but on a new level. I'm now getting a dose of my own medicine in the form of Bella telling me exactly what she will do and when she will do it and "If I don't listen, I'm gonna get in big trouble, UNDERSTAND?!" I know we shouldn't, but we just can't help but crack a smile when she tries to act so grown up. She also has started asking for privacy when using the bathroom and promptly locks us out! Oh brother, what are we gonna do when she hits those preteen years?! At least now, she still turns back into our sweet and cuddly 3 year old at bedtime and we hold onto these moments for all they're worth!

We just went to the doctor's for the girls check-ups and both are doing great! Giulianna is 17lbs 8oz. and Isabella is 25lbs. Gianna continues to test the limits of her mobility by pulling herself up to whatever she can and of course testing gravity by falling back down again, getting very frustrated and then trying again and again. She loves any tune and immediately starts bobbing her little body up and down to the beat clapping and waving with her big-toothed grin and wrinkled up nose! She just cracks us up! She's also getting into books more and more now and will actually sit for periods of time and allow me to tell the story before she has to turn the page. Before it was just this fast paced flipping motion and she was done. Overall, a pretty laid back happy and snuggly little girl. I just can't believe nine months have already come and gone!

Just had to add a few pictures of our Independence Day Entertainment:

"The Sparkler Dancers"

Dancing in the rain...

2008-07-03T00:17:00.002-04:00

A perfect day for the Princess!

2008-06-22T23:17:00.012-04:00

It's finally here!!! Our little Isabella turned 3 today!!! We had a wonderful time celebrating with family and friends and a very special guest(who she's still talking about). Bella received many great gifts but I think what made her day was being able to flutter around all dressed up with a beautiful Belle, and an adorable Cinderella and Sleeping Beauty. Storytime with Snow White was the icing on the cake and made quite an impression as was evident when she promptly turned into 'Snow White' as soon as the party was over! :) Thank you so much to everyone who came to celebrate this special day with us and an especially big thank you to all the prince's, who I'm sure, got more than their fair share of pink and all things princess)! It was one exhausting but memorable day!

...and they all lived happily ever after.

Catch up

2008-06-19T22:32:00.005-04:00

Happy Belated Father's Day to all the amazing daddy's out there! We had a somewhat relaxing day at home on Sunday. Giulianna has been sick so we didn't make it to church but did enjoy a family brunch out on the patio and then got to some much needed work around the house. The rest of the week has been spent gearing up for Bella's big bash and trying to get Gianna well without getting anyone else sick! Poor thing has had a hard time breathing for more than a week now, but you'd never know it. Other than during the evenings, she's been her happy, energetic self working especially hard with her new found mobility of "dragging herself" to wherever she wants to go! Bella is doing well, thankfully showing no signs of the sniffles and excitedly looking forward to turning 3 on Sunday! Seems like we've been talking about it for months...or she's been reminding us. And after celebrating three other family birthday's this month, I think she has done a great job patiently waiting her turn! More on that to come...here's a few of my favorite pics from the last couple of weeks. Have a great weekend everyone!

Story-time with Bella

2008-06-06T16:57:00.003-04:00

Isabella continues to love to read, listen, and especially to tell her own versions of all kinds of stories. We've covered just about every genre but at the moment 'princess stories' take center stage. This must be a girl thing because we, or I should say I, have not spent that much time on them yet somehow the handful of times she has heard Snow White, Cinderella, and the others have made quite the impression! Take a look at this impromptu retelling of the old classic...Snow White.

RoxAnna Designs Debut!

2008-05-27T18:11:00.004-04:00

I've decided to try my hand in the card making business (Thanks Melody). By clicking on the picture below, you'll be taken to RoxAnna Designs home page. It is still very much a work in progress and whether or not it turns into success isn't important to me. Obviously not, I'm creating them for FREE! And having a blast doing it! So please, stop by, have a look, and let me know what you think.

Oh and the name, by the way, came from my sister in law (Roxy) combined with my middle name (Ann), just in case you wondered. Roxy specializes in handmade, hand stamped cards and does an incredible job! We hope to add her work to the site very soon.

Photoshoot with the Fab Five...

2008-05-15T17:09:00.004-04:00

Two weeks ago we set out on the quest to try and get a successful photograph of all five cousins together. No small task!!! It looks like we'll need to try again but there were some pretty cute 'outtakes' I thought I'd share. It doesn't only get harder and harder with a new baby every year, it gets interesting as well! :) But I did manage to put together a Mother's Day card out of them and had a lot of fun doing it. Below is also a sample announcement for Abby, Laura's doing the real ones I just couldn't resist. Enjoy!

Updates

2008-05-02T16:33:00.011-04:00

Things have been a little hectic over the last month and we weren't able to fit in Gianna's 6 month check-up until just today. The doctor just laughed at me when I walked in with her (at almost 7 months old) and said 'that's the way it goes'. Bella came along for the ride and was a great sport. She loves going to 'visit' at the doctors office, knows them all by name and is such a big helper when we go. She hopped on the scale while we were there and came in at a whopping 25 1/2 pounds! I know, I know, we have to start the kid on a diet. Aside from being our petite little princess, there isn't anything petite when it comes to her personality! Aside from me drilling road safety into her head (and the sudden panic when she sees a car pointing in her direction, moving or not) the girl knows no fear. And there is never a dull moment in our house!

But petite is not a word we use to describe Giulianna (aka 'little sissy'). She hits the charts at 50-75% weighing 15 pounds 9 ounces, and measuring 26 inches long. Currently she has 7 teeth and I don't think it will stay that way for long! Giulianna is very laid back and for the most part just goes with the flow. However we are starting to see a slight bit of a temper in her (she may turn out to have a little red in her hair after all...thanks mom! haha). She is sleeping great and loving most all of the new tastes we're dabbling in. So far the green beans and cheerios are her favorites. And her favorite pastime is playing with big sissy Bella! Bella just cracks her up and Gianna always has her eye on whatever her big sissy is doing. You'd better watch out Bella, she won't stay put for long! These two are growing fast and we are so blessed to be along for the ride! They definitely light up our world!

hi-ho cheerio!

2008-04-28T15:41:00.008-04:00

Last night we were having a bowl of Cheerios for a bedtime snack and Giulianna was really eyeing them. My mom had actually tried to give her one in church about a week ago but she gagged so bad we thought she was gonna puke. So I wasn't holding my breath, but decided we'd go ahead and give it another try. She did great and really liked them. It was pretty cute watching her figure out what her teeth are for. And Isabella had a pretty good time feeding them to her too. Finally...putting those chompers to some good use!!!

Wedding Day!

2008-04-27T00:37:00.004-04:00

I know they already posted pictures on their site but I just had to post this one as well. Yesterday could not have been a more perfect day for Bogdan and Ola to get married and we were so thankful that we got to be a part of their special day! Bella is thrilled to have her new 'Aunt Ola' officially welcomed into the family (as well as getting to wear her 'wedding dress' for the occasion. ha ha!) We wish you both all of the happiness that true love brings and pray that God blesses your love, your lives, and you marriage for many many years to come! Congratulations Bobo and Ola, we love you!

A week with Grandma and Grandpa...

2008-04-22T23:07:00.018-04:00

Manuel went to Japan for work so the girls and I decided to move in with my parents for the week. From visiting with my sister and her little ones, to sitting by the fire and roasting marsh-mellows at night, we've been having a great time! And with all this summer-like weather we've been getting, we play all day and sleep all night! Thanks Mom and Dad for letting us hang out all week, your place is definitely our home away from home. And Manu, these pictures are for you! We love you and miss you, see you soon!!!

Welcome Abigail!

2008-04-19T22:09:00.006-04:00

Sweet little Abigail Elizabeth Rhoads came into our world on Friday April 18th 2008 at 1:59pm. Weighing 7 pounds 7 ounces and measuring 20.5 inches, she is as cute and as perfect as can be! Laura did awesome during the delivery and both mama and baby Abby are doing well and resting at home tonight. Below are a few pictures from the busy day...enjoy!

Congratulations Lee and Laura!!! What a precious little family of four!

Our First Glimpse

The Proud Mama and Papa

Meeting Big Brother

The Passing of Generations

Snuggles from Grammie and Bella

Mission: Texas

2008-04-11T14:48:00.007-04:00

Well, we are home from our trip to Texas and what an awesome time we had! The title is Mission: Texas because that's exactly what it was. We were on a mission, from the time we boarded the airplane to Dallas, drove to Lubbock, then back to Dallas, Frisco, and Lewisville, and until our feet were back on Michigan soil. Thankfully we had two very good travelers on board with us, otherwise it could've been a real disaster! And it did prove to be just a bit much as now that we are home, Bella and I are battling some pretty nasty colds, but we're not letting that keep us down. It was a trip to remember! We met so many people and made such good memories, I'm sure Bella will be talking about it for a long time to come! Thanks again to all our hosts! Anytime you want to head to Michigan, our doors will be open to you!

"The Alamo" built by my Uncle Don

(can you find the state of Texas?)

At Aunt Karen's Bella was in her element

Bugs, Bugs, and more Buugs!

Giulianna playing in the grass for the first time

Bella wanting really bad to hold a duck!

...much more from Texas

2008-04-11T14:00:00.001-04:00

"Last Night in the Nursery"

2008-03-31T23:03:00.003-04:00

Yet another example of too much Peter Pan!

...we are backing off, seriously.

More Easter Fun

2008-03-24T11:03:00.005-04:00

We had a great Easter spent with family and even though it came with more snow on the ground we didn't let it dampen out spirits. The kids had a blast coloring eggs, hunting for them, and sampling all the sweets. And it was great to see the smiles on their faces but it did get me thinking about the real meaning of Easter and how easily it can be missed as a child with all of the other traditions competing with it. So after reading and re-reading the real Easter story, I hope it sank in. Bella did put aside her usual role of 'snowwhite', and 'princess' this morning and was actually praying in the bathtub thanking God for Jesus and talking to me about her bible class yesterday...that is until she got out of the bathtub and saw her Easter dress...then she promptly turned back into 'princess Bella'. The girl is such a drama queen, I think we're in trouble!

Happy Easter Everyone!

2008-03-20T22:41:00.005-04:00

The Winter Blues!

2008-03-11T17:12:00.010-04:00

Ok, so we're starting to get a little cabin fever over here. Stuck inside with nothing to do, just wishing away the winter blues! We've had a pretty good winter but we are definitely looking forward to Spring! There's a limit to how many princess stories one can handle! Here's a few pics from our snow days and a milestone video of Giulianna below. Come Spring come!

It took a lot of hard work but she did it!

Here's Giulianna rolling over for the 1st time.

Our Growing Girls!

2008-02-21T16:06:00.012-05:00

Isabella, 23lbs and petite as always, but with more energy than we sometimes know what to do with! Lately she's been donning her tutu daily and prancing all around the house "Getting Married" as she dances with her 'prince daddy'! The other day Manuel and I were somewhat dressed up (I had on a necklace I seldom wear) and on our way out to dinner. I went to tell Bella goodbye. She barely glanced at me she was so into her movie but as I was walking away she came running to me. When I turned around she was staring at my necklace wide-eyed and she asked me: "Mommy, are you getting married? Do you get to dance with the prince?" How precious!!! After explaining to her that actually mommy and daddy are already married and whatever else I thought her 2 year old mind could handle, it hit me that she has been watching entirely too much disney! haha! But she is the cutest thing running around the house these days and I think that this is what fairytales are made of!

Giulianna is growing fast! She's 13.5lbs and 25 inches long and continues to be a very laid back baby. Which has been such a blessing since we've just finished our second road trip in a month! She has officially moved into her own room upstairs and has been sleeping great! But I'm already missing her way up there on the second floor...seems so far away! She's trying hard to roll over with no luck yet and has become very captivated by her big sister. Babbling and squealing back at her and taking it all in! She is such a joy and we are cherishing every single day!

Trip to Kansas

2008-02-12T15:13:00.000-05:00

About two weeks ago the girls and I took an impromptu trip with my mom and dad to see my grandparents in Kansas. It was a very long drive but the girls did excellent! Giulianna, fortunately, is still at the age where she sleeps wonderfully well in the car and Isabella, aside from a small bit of insanity during the last few hours home, kept herself occupied reading and playing with her disney dolls most of the time. My grandparents live on a ranch and have 15 horses, most of which Isabella could name for you, and we enjoyed our visit very much. Below is Giulianna's first fourth generation picture, and of course, Bella with the horses. Thanks so much for all your hospitality Grandma and Gaylin, we love you and look forward to visiting you again!

2008-02-07T15:16:00.000-05:00

Just a couple of cute sister shots to share...

Bella actually sharing her baby blankie!

Notice the reaction when holding blankie:

hand, thumb, finger, whatever, immediately enters mouth!

First bath together on our road trip to Kansas

(more from Kansas to come)

Update on the Quilt:

The top piece is finished and now the real work begins...

Gianna thinks it feels pretty good!

2008-01-25T22:57:00.000-05:00

Here's some photos my mom took of Bella out in her backyard a few weeks ago. Thought I'd post them since she still hasn't gotten her blog up and running yet :) Nice work mom!

Bonded for life

2008-01-24T00:01:00.000-05:00

These last couple of days have been such a blast for me as I watch my girls grow and start interacting with one another! Giulianna is coming alive, babbling, and smiling all the time, not to mention all the spitting and slobbering she's been doing. She just cut her first tooth (not that she'll be needing it anytime soon).

Isabella is full of wonder. The things that come out of that little girls mouth amaze me! It is the sweetest thing when I hear her talking to Giulianna. Bella is so gentle around her(most of the time) and doesn't mind a bit incorporating her baby sister into her imaginative play. If Bella is Peter Pan, I'm Wendy and Gianna is Michael. The other day I was the Princess, Bella was Miriam, and Gianna was moses, she even came up with a basket she told me was covered in 'slime and pitch'. She sure pays attention to detail! haha!

I know it's still early on in their sibling journey, and I'm sure it won't always be this smooth, but I just wanted to somehow capture this moment in their lives. There is such innocence to their bond and it is so strong. I look forward to watching their relationship unfold with time...

My Sweet Girls!

2008-01-09T14:14:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year everyone! I hope you have all had a great start to your 2008! Things have been eventful for us starting with me in the ER on the 1st with a kidney stone. But, as always, God's timing was perfect! We are finally getting back on our feet and I thank God that everything went so well for the girls. What hurt the most was being away from them those 4 days but they did get to come and visit me, which was the highlight of my stay. Dressed in the outfits you'll see below, my parents had just taken them to get their pictures taken. They were so adorable! It's funny how much older they both seemed after only being away from them a short time! Thank you so much Mom and Dad, you were definitely a God send!

Here's some pics from their photo session:

7 Years!

2007-12-29T14:01:00.000-05:00

A week ago today marked Manuel's and my seven year anniversary. It's hard to believe that seven years have already come and gone! Here's a little slideshow we put together while looking through old photos from our seven years together. Sweet memories...

Tis the season to be jolly

2007-12-28T21:32:00.000-05:00

Hope everyone had a great Christmas! We enjoyed our stay with all of the family in Flint and are now home and somewhat unpacked and settled back in. It amazes me how much 'stuff' we, along with two kids, can aquire! So, the house is pretty much a mess, but we don't care. We're enjoying Manuel's few extra days off by lounging around and watching Bella play with all of her goodies.

Here's a few pics from our Holiday happenings:

Sugar cookies at Grandma's....yum!!!

Just checking out Uncle Lee

Kind of an inside joke...this is what our white elephant gift exchange has turned into...thanks to the good looking gentlemen of the 'Jeffery, Florescu, Rhoads Family' haha!

Thanks for the laughs guys!

Poor Giulianna could do nothing but pose with most of her gifts this year

And this is as good as it gets for these two...they didn't sit still too long!

It was all a bit overwhelming as you can imagine!

This gift giving stuff is hard work...

but she's all smiles the next day!

Bella showing Giulianna her new(mommy's old)doll house

An artist in the making! Thanks Papa and Grandma!

In memory of "Auntie Pat"

2007-12-20T13:58:00.000-05:00

Just over two years ago I had the privilege to meet one amazing woman! After Bella was born Manuel and I, with my parents, headed down to Ohio to introduce her to my mothers extended family there. We had such a wonderful time that we have kind of made it a bi-yearly tradition (which has just so happened to coincide with subsequent births and therefore the need for more introductions). And evertime Auntie Pat and Uncle Lester have been so gracious to us, far beyond what words can describe! I know, from our conversations and reminicing through old photo albums that hers was a life well lived. She was so many things to so many people and touched every single life she encountered. Oh the stories she could tell! I will remember her fondly for the rest of my life and am so grateful I had the opportunity to meet her and to spend some time with her in this life. She will be greatly missed and our hearts and prayers are with all those she left behind! We love you Auntie Pat!

Uncle Bobo, a Blizzard, and a Letter to Santa

2007-12-17T15:35:00.000-05:00

Uncle Bobo came back just in time for the Holidays and quess who was bouncing off the walls to see him?! Bella got to go pick him up from the airport at around 4pm and was still going strong when they arrived home around 9pm. And this happened to be a day she decided not to nap! She loves her Uncle Bobo and missed him so much while he was away!

Bella had a blast bundling all up and playing in the first big snow of the year! After awhile all the slush and cold can get to me, but it was just such a cool feeling getting Bella ready to go out yesterday! "Mommy, I sooo sited!" she would say as I zipped up her coat. And I was too! All the neighbors were out clearing their driveways, and not many cars had ventured down the road, so we grabbed our little sled and ran up and down the street with Sasha racing after us! Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow!

Here's Bobo meeting the newest member

of the Florescu family

Here's what Manuel had to dig us out of...he's a little sore today

Writing a letter to Santa...will post video soon.

And last but not least here's Giulianna. Just over 9 weeks old and at 10 pounds 12 ounces, she's not really into sledding or Santa. But she is growing fast and is as cute as can be! She is a very content and laid back baby just staring wide eyed at the world around her. Her smiles and coo's are so sweet and she's trying hard to laugh out loud, which most times just comes out as a squeal!

The speed of life

2007-12-03T11:13:00.000-05:00

It's been awhile since my last post. I've wanted to put up many of these pics for a few weeks now but everytime I turn around and have a few minutes to myself there are 10 other things that I need to do...like shower for instance(which, many days, doesn't happen until 3:00)! These two little ones sure are keeping me busy. Some days it can be pretty rough trying to pacify a 2 week old and negotiate with a 2 year old at the same time but overall I'm loving every minute of it. I'm amazed at how fast my little newborn is changing into a baby right before my eyes! And I'm already missing those first few weeks knowing from experience that they will never return and that life will continue to race along as usual. Does anyone know how to slow it down?!?

Going for a swim...

these pics are pretty neat because

we have some just like them with Bella at this age.

Storytime with Andrea, as you can tell it's a blast!

In Poppy's hands on Thanksgiving

Getting ready for bible class at Papa and Grandma's

Poor thing has some wild hair, it actually grows like that!

My Aunt Karen is so neat, not to mention talented! It all started with "the Bella Bag" as we call it that she made when Bella was born. Since then all of the great grandkids have gotten their own and these are her two latest creations! I just love them! She's even inspired me...

Now I never thought I'd take up sewing. Never even owned a machine until a year ago, and then only because Manuel bought one(think he was trying to tell me something). But seeing all the cool things my aunt does and all the quilting my mom has done I decided to give it a try. Here's a little glimpse of the quilt I'm working on. Notice it's a patchwork, the easiest type there is. I'll let ya know when I'm finished if it's something I'll continue but so far I'm having fun!

And who knows...maybe quilting slows life down! :)

Hat Heads

2007-11-06T15:46:00.000-05:00

Oh the fun of playing dress up!

Here's a picture of Bella

in the hat I wore for Easter as a girl.

And in her apple hat

that I finally got her to try on.

Thanks Margie, it's too cute!

Then there's Giulianna,

sitting as good as can be.

These times pass too fast!

We love you Nana & Papi!

2007-11-05T20:39:00.000-05:00

Few can bring the warmth we can find in their embrace...

Giulianna 10.20.07

And little more is needed for love than the smile on their face.

Isabella 07.02.05

Happy Halloween!

2007-11-02T15:11:00.000-04:00

This year's Halloween was so much fun! We had a few friends over and the kids went trick or treating around the block. But the best part for me was the sheer excitement I saw in Bella's eyes the entire day! From the moment she woke up she was in role play. She played Tinkerbell the entire day, flying from one room to the next and had her dad fly her from house to house that night...I think she even flew off to bed! ha ha! It was great watching her be so into the whole thing.

She didn't care much for the candy, not that she turned it down altogether or anything, but she was so much more interested in all the costumes and decorations, going up and giving kisses to each and every pumpkin she saw, including her baby sister...precious!

Week 2

2007-10-26T23:50:00.000-04:00

I can't believe it has already been two weeks since Giulianna was born! Seems like now with two kids the time flies by twice as fast! We are doing pretty well, aside from the fact that Bella has caught a pretty bad cold and is having a little trouble breathing, but she is still in good spirits and at the moment is having fun with her new favorite past-time: All things Peter Pan! Thank you Pat and Margie for the Audio books! She absolutely loves them! We read them a few dozen times a day and have since added two more Pan books and a DVD to our collection! Yesterday she was so cute pretending to be Wendy and calling up from the bottom of the stairs to Pan, to come down so she could give him his shadow! It was too cute! Giulianna had a somewhat fussy day yesterday but thankfully she slept well at night and was back to her happy, content self again today. I knew that perfect newborn phase wouldn't last forever, I'm just praying the fussiness isn't too severe and doesn't last very long! Here's some pics from tonight when Grandma came over. It means so much to have her here to help, and I know Bella is thrilled whenever she visits! Thanks for all the help Grandma! We love you!

A hair-do for you!

2007-10-26T23:40:00.000-04:00

Today Aunt Roxy came over with a whole bunch of cute little hair clips for Giulianna, seeing that she was born with quite a lot of hair. And since she hasn't lost any of it yet, Bella thought we should take full advantage of the opportunity to use every single one of the clips at once...as well as the fact that at the moment her sister is at her mercy.

Thanks Aunt Roxy! Don't we look cute?!

I will get even one day sis, you just wait!

A cake party with Grandma!

2007-10-26T23:30:00.000-04:00

I think they've started a tradition. Almost everytime they get together, they've gotta bake a cake! And let me just say, it is not helping anybody around here to lose their post baby fat! But that's ok, for now...who can turn down a chocolate cake at the end of a busy day?

Here's Bella getting a little carried away with the egg cracking

And now for the best part...yum yum!

Thanks Grandma, you're the best!

Our angels

2007-10-18T17:00:00.000-04:00

We are adjusting well as we begin our second week at home. I feel so blessed to have these two precious girls in my care and am very much looking forward to seeing them grow up together as sisters! Giulianna is eating and sleeping well...as you can tell. And we are trying to keep Bella from going stir crazy with trips to the playground, mall, library, and anywhere else we can think of. She wakes up almost every morning asking about her sister and has been a big helper with diaper changing, burping, and all the other fun stuff that come with a new baby in the house. Here's a few new pics of the week...

Looks like we have another thumb sucker on our hands!

Getting ready for a trip to the library

Yesterday on our way back from the park Bella spotted a praying mantis on the sidewalk and had a ball letting it climb all over her! It was pretty cute.

...and baby makes four!

2007-10-14T15:09:00.000-04:00

We were blessed by the arrival of our sweet baby girl on October 10th at 11:39am. She weighed 6 pounds 12 ounces and was 19 inches long. These last few days have been a whirlwind of events and emotions. Bella is still doing great and loving every minute of being a big sister, most of the time. She has become very sensitive and somewhat posessive of 'her' new baby sister and we are doing our best to incorporate her into her new role of our family of four. Giulianna is such a sweet baby and is making our transition a rather smooth one so far. We know of the many sleepless nights yet to come but are so excited to experience all of those newborn firsts that we remember so well, all over again! Thanks to everyone for all your visits and good wishes! We appreciate them very much!

Introducing Giulianna Sofia Florescu

First family photo

The proud big sis!

with Dr. B, the best doctor ever!

Going home

Fall is here!

2007-10-01T15:29:00.000-04:00

I can't believe it's October 1st already! It was a georgous weekend and we had family visiting from Texas so we took the opportunity to take the kids to a pumpkin patch. Everyone had a good time and the doughnuts and cider were delicious!

We had to get a little jump start on the fall festivities because any day now we could be welcoming our second edition! We had a slight scare last week when the Dr.s thought I was measuring smaller than I should but all our fears were quickly put to rest after going to get an ultrasound at the hospital. Baby is doing really well and is about 6lbs. But after the mental and emotional rollercoaster of the last few days, we realized that delivery day is practically here! Please keep us in your prayers as the day draws near.

Uncle JJ with Jackson (9mo)

Jack and Kathy

Two bumps on a log

Precious moments with Daddy

Pumpkins...

and more Pumpkins!

Karen and Kathy

and a wagon ride from Papa completes the trip!

A little glimse of life with Bella

2007-09-23T22:54:00.000-04:00

Busy, Busy, Busy! That's all I can say about how we've been and what Bella has been up to lately. She could entertain us for hours with all her role playing and pretend play! It is such a joy watching her grow each day. I thank God for just being her mom and witnessing each new stage she goes through and I am sooooo looking forward to all of the exciting experiences yet to come...but at the same time, I wish these days could last forever!

Below is a little video I put together of Bella over the past few days. It's pretty hard to have the camera ready to catch all the memorable moments...but we try. The song leading section was pretty hilarious the first time we witnessed it! She first recited some page number and then began singing her heart out! I found out this morning from her Bible Class teacher that she's actually getting it from a little boy in her class that leads a few songs every Sunday (he's the grandson of one of our song leaders, go figure!)

And the last little bit is compliments of the gymnastics class her and daddy go to every Saturday. I'm not exactly sure who enjoys it more! After their first class daddy came home so excited I think he was ready to quit his day job and go buy himself a gym! Who knows, maybe it will happen someday.... :)

Enjoy!

A visit with friends

2007-09-01T14:26:00.000-04:00

On Tuesday we went to visit some friends that we don't get to see as often as we'd like. Their son Ian is only 3 months younger than Bella and the two have a blast together! Just check them out posing for the camera! haha! They just welcomed a new addition to their family and Bella was so excited to see baby Nathan. He is so precious! Congratulations Chris and Amy, you have one adorable family!

Conversations with a 2 year old...

2007-08-26T23:25:00.000-04:00

Isabella is full of stories and all kinds of tales these days! It's like everything that has gone in during the last 2 years of her life is now coming out...all at once! Her reasoning and pretend play are pretty entertaining. And she loves an audience! Here's a video of some conversations she and Daddy have had over the past few days.

66 Days and Counting...

2007-08-14T23:05:00.000-04:00

It has just hit me how fast this pregnancy is passing!!! With only two months to go my mind is racing with an ever growing "to do" list and it seems there's not a moment to spare! I guess you could say I've officially entered my nesting period. I'm filling out the baby book, complete with family photo's that you'll find below, and even catching up on Bella's scrapbook. All the while wondering if I will ever be ready for this baby!

Random Summer Photos

2007-08-04T22:40:00.000-04:00

Trying to Beat the Heat!

2007-08-01T15:11:00.000-04:00

I just recently discovered these fountains not far from our house...actually Bella did. We were driving to my doctors new office and before I could say anything she started Oooing and Ahhhing! "Fountain Mama, Fountain!" So when Carter came to visit we took the kids back and they had a blast! It's like this huge glass surface, looks like they are practically walking on water!

Nana, Papi, and The Greats!

2007-07-18T16:07:00.000-04:00

This past week we were able to spend some time with our relatives from out of state. Aunt Karen and Lisa came from Texas, Aunt Kathy came from California, and Angela and Victoria came from Illinois. The kids had a great time...and the adults, I think, are all ready for their naps!!! haha! But what else do you get when you put 4 children under 4 together?! All in all it was great to see everyone and a blessing to have everyone together! The results from our photo shoot weren't too bad either! Take a look...