How it all began

Ralph and I have been together since the summer of 2008 but it all began in 1992. Ralph's sister, Colleen and I have been best friends since 6th grade and we grew up at each other's houses throughout the years. Ralph was always around but being the younger brother was forbidden to be around us (not that he wanted to make up dances with us). We said hi during high school and when I needed a jersey to wear to school on Fridays, Ralph was nice enough to let me wear his. He visited Kent State while I was there once to look at the football team and campus but decided against attending. He joined the Marine Corps and we spoke through emails every now and then just to see how the other was doing. Life went on and our paths finally crossed again in 2008 when Colleen invited me to their families yearly 4th of July party. Ralph was home on leave from Iraq and I just moved back to Cincinnati. This time when we saw each other things seemed a little different and the rest is history. In December 2011 we were engaged, July 2012 we were married, April 2013 we bought our first house and March 2014 we had our first child, Braxten! Each year has been more blessed than the last and we are so excited to see where our future takes us!

Thursday, August 20, 2015

Finding our patience

Braxten is trying our patience lately. He is so smart that he knows what he wants and knows exactly how to do it but sometimes just isn't big enough or strong enough to get it done. He stands pointing and whining an unforgettable yell. He is trying to be good and polite as he signs Please over and over again but of course we can't hear the sign and he gets upset. He is starting to repeat words but refuses to say Help or just say Mama or Dada. It has been a long two days of us not giving into the yell so he doesn't think that's how things get done but it's so hard! We love you little man - can't wait until you can talk, you obviously have so much to say and it is very important to you!

Saturday, August 8, 2015

Braxton update 16 months

16 Month Old B (a little late)

Braxten is the most fun loving, adventurous, sweet little boy! He is on the go from the second he wakes up until the time we put him back into his crib. It is amazing how smart and coordinated a 16 month old can be!


Braxton now...
  • can do sounds or actions of a monkey, fish, cow and pig
  • knows where his eyes, ears, nose, hair and belly are
  • still takes 2 naps a day (thank goodness)
  • is 21lb 8oz
  • loves watching Daddy's truck pull in the driveway, starts yelling DADA and runs to the door as he walks in the house
  • sits on Mommy's lap randomly when they are playing on the floor



  • can almost get on the couch by himself, just needs a foot of ours to stand on to be tall enough
  • sits on the couch like a big boy with his remote and Mommy's phone
  • still isn't super impressed with Kane but will give her kisses and her pacifier when he thinks she needs it
  • loves throwing balls throughout the house and chasing them to throw them again
  • RUNS about everywhere he goes
  • is happier outside than anywhere else


 Braxten is an absolute joy and light in our lives. He doesn't allow a bad day to get to you because the second you are down he makes you laugh. His dance moves, facial expressions, sweet hugs, kisses and independent personality remind you of the blessings that are so easy to overlook. He amazes us by watching us do something once and then understanding what we did and trying to do it himself. It isn't always successful the first time but he is determined to figure it out. He loves his family and friends once he warms up to let his personality shine. He pretends to be shy for the first few minutes but that doesn't last long. We love watching him learn and grow daily. We are in a bit of trouble as he gets taller, his height is the only thing holding him back from some major adventures! Love you buddy!

Monday, August 3, 2015

Kane 3 Month update

Kane is 3 months old!



Kane is a wonderful, beautiful, easy going baby girl! She brings smiles to everyone she meets and has us realizing just how much love our house is full of! We are so lucky to have two amazing kiddos! Kane has had a month full of growing and learning everyday. She is...

  • 13b 8oz
  • 23.5 inches long
  • has gray blue eyes with dark blue around them
  • cooing whenever someone talks to her
  • starting to giggle (no belly laughs yet)
  • grabbing blankets, burp clothes and clothes constantly
  • sleeping 10-12 hours a night
  • getting better at taking naps
  • rolling from her belly to back
  • rolling from back to belly but gets her arm stuck at the end
  • eating every 3-3.5 hours anywhere from 4-7 ounces
  • loves to watch Braxten and TV
  • trying to sit up constantly, she doesn't like to just relax laying back. Upright is best for her.
  • reaching for toys that are above her head in her Mama Roo and the play mat
  • wearing 3 month clothes but only the brands that are bigger 3 month - she may be in 6 month soon for comfort
Miss Kane, we love you and are blessed to have you in our lives! You bring is joy and happiness everyday. As you personality is starting to come out we fall in love with you more by the moment!