Grace's Random Thoughts

Happy New Year Welcome to 2011

2011-01-02T20:57:00.013-05:00

2010 has finally come to an end and 2011 holds sooooo much promise as we move forward. We had a very busy fall and winter so far. Nonna and Papa hosted us at Disney World for Thanksgiving and Ryan's birthday. Mommy took us up to see Grandma Kathy, for a week, but we had to cut our visit in Stow short because I got sick. Mommy and Daddy kept a pretty low key schedule for Christmas which was good because it still seems like we've been going non-stop. Uncle Chris and Auntie Lauren brought Oliver and Adelaide down for New Years and that brings us up to date. So here is our year in review:

- Mommy played Rugby and Gaelic Football this year.
- Daddy graduated from school.
- Grace is fully potty trained.

- Ryan likes to wear panties over her diaper.
- Daddy got a new job.
- Family from Texas and New Jersey came to visit.

- We took a family trip up to Cape Cod.

- Mommy and Daddy went to Taylor and Ricky Bobby's wedding.
- We took a family trip to Disney World.

I think that is it. Oh...I almost forgot. Ryan is going to get to be a big sister in May. Mommy has a baby girl in her belly and we can't wait to had her to our author list. Daddy said he will talk to her soon and find out what she is thinking, he'll share more this year, it is one of this New Year's resolutions. Mine is to take up pilates, oh wait, not this year, mine is to teach Ryan how to use the potty and I also want to learn my numbers and letters. Ryan says she wants chicken nuggets.

4th of July

2010-07-29T06:22:00.004-04:00

We had a full house for the 4th of July this year, because of a Texan Invasion. That's right our wounder clan of cousins from Texas stopped by to pay us a visit, and the New Jersey cousins took the occasion to make the loooonnnngg journey from the Garden State.

There is so much to say about the visit and about my amazing cousins, but I think pictures might do the best justice.

A few highlights might include our visit into DC, Fireworks, and a picnic in Warrenton.

This is Grace by the way, I know it might start getting a little confusing as I let Ryan do the typing from time to time. I was a little overwhelmed during this visit, it isn't every day that you have 24 cousins to choose from when it comes to play time.

I did find a new way to go down the steps at the Lincoln Memorial. If you go to the side of the steps you will see a granite slide, but if you choose to slide down it make sure you don't get your foot caught on the railing, because it twists you around and does not end up well. I have a few lumps on my head to prove it. Oh, and for the record, Daddy was watching me, or at least he was supposed to be watching me.

Short Story

2010-05-18T06:02:00.002-04:00

Once upon a time there was a little girl, for now we will call her Grace. She was a very clever little girl, as clever as a fox. On this beautiful spring day they were over at their neighbor's house having a picnic, when all of a sudden all of the kids disappeared, at least this is what is seemed like to the adults in the backyard because it became eerily quiet.

The kids did not actually disappear, they just went to the front of the house to play. Grace was with her friends having a great time because everyone was older than her, except for her sidekick Ryan of course. Now did I tell you Grace was a clever little girl, not only is she clever, but she is very curious. The events that took place in the front of the house have several different versions, but the one that has the most agreement is as follows. That curious little girl saw something that caught her eye, it looked like a big cozy coup. Grace walked over and without hesitation she got into the drivers seat. She peaked over to see if anyone was looking and then gently slammed her foot on the gas.... the golf cart jumped forward startling the little convict. Grace, in a moment of triumph, was so proud to be driving; when, not a second later, BOOOOOOM. The clever little girl's joy ride was abruptly ended by a brand new car's bumper parked directly in front of her. Grace was fine, the golf cart was fine, but that new bumper was not a happy bumper...

The other children may or may not have been watching the three year old exploring the joys of golf cart living, but by now they all saw that something was amiss. One of the children ran to tell an adult. Then the adults started to filter out front, all of the adults except the clever little girl's Dad. He was in the backyard drinking an adult beverage and pondering about how perfect his life was with a beautiful wife and two very clever little girls. Eventually he heard in the distance some words that took him a bit to put in order, "accident" "golf cart" "Grace".... Ahhh, how nice it was to day dream...

Happy St. Patrick's Day

2010-03-15T21:58:00.004-04:00

Life has been coming at us full speed!! The winter has come and gone and Mommy is so happy be have February behind us. We had over 40 inches of snow this year, which is just a little bit over my head. Daddy says that Global Warming makes it snow a lot, personally I think that Global Warming stuff is just a bunch of hot air. Since I haven't written much over the past few months I will make a list of the highlights:

1. It snowed....a lot.
2. It snowed....a lot..again.
3. Ryan and I are now sleeping in our own beds (as of February)...Mommy got tired of me sleeping sideways and Ryan's snoring.
4. Ryan is speaking a lot.
5. Ryan and I know how to say hello in Spanish, Swahili, French, Mandarin, and one other way....oh English.

I am sure there is more, but I think that is good enough for now.

Happy St. Patrick's Day.

If you find yourself sitting at the bar by yourself it is probably time to go home.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!!!

2009-12-31T09:43:00.002-05:00

Ryan is TWO!!!!

2009-11-24T22:27:00.003-05:00

No No Nooooo... That's right this is Ryan and I am now two. We celebrated my birthday on Sunday, even though I've been making Grace sing me happy birthday all month, Sunday was my real birthday. We had the Kelly's, Robert and Grachnia, Nonna and Papa, and Nicole (who I sometimes call Darlene and other times call Taylor anyway I digress) in town to celebrate. It was awesome...I'm not sure I know any other words to describe it, in fact I don't know if I know awesome yet or not, but I'm trusting Daddy's transcription. I received waaaayyy too many gifts. Dad are you sure you are capturing this right?

Mommy got a new camera, so she was able to take some awesome pics (I think I like that word). Daddy how are you capturing my thoughts, I didn't say that (mmmm I want a hotdog). Ok Ok, that's enough, I think I'll let Grace do the Thanksgiving post, this is creeping me out a little. Check out the pictures Mommy took on the slide show.

I'm too.

I have a very good excuse this time....

2009-11-09T06:22:00.004-05:00

I don't have any good pictures, to share with you this time around. Yes, I hear what you are asking yourselves right now, "How can that be, this is the most photographic family I've ever seen in the history of the world?" Of course you are correct. You see Ryan likes to pretend that various non-phone things are actually phones, in this case the camera, when she's done chatting, usually with Papa, she puts them into her purse, which then goes into a backpack, which then gets placed in a secret place, or something along those lines. Just a couple of days ago Daddy caught me with his wallet in the binocular case in the bottom of a backpack in the back of the closet, oh wait we're blaming this on Ryan right? Anyway the bottom line is the camera is missing, so no photos.

Earlier this month we went to Dallas, TX to visit our cousins while Daddy went to China. The cousins are doing great and I am now a fan of the Southlake Dragons....we went to a football game and I was yelling gooo Dragons while Ryan was yelling goo Kelsey (our cheer leading cousin).

We had a great Halloween, you should have seen us, we all looked awesome. Daddy was Superman, Mommy was Wonderwoman, I was Supergirl, and Ryan was Wondergirl. So the Superfamily made their debut in Flower Valley and we were a hit or at least we got a lot of attention. Of course it's not every day you see four superheros walking around.

Ryan is really coming along with her talking and the two of us are like frick and frack, at least thats what I hear. I don't know who this frick or this frack is, but they must be good looking.

Oh by the way, we had our quarterly visit to the ER this week. I earned another 4 stitches surpassing the number of stitches Daddy has gotten in the ER, sissy. He keeps talking about how he was a rugby player, but the facts are just not adding up, eight stitches over a 10 year rugby career is just not possible. This time the stitches were in my foot, no major damage, and hopefully it will be a cool scar.

Oh, I almost forgot...Papa made the Hall of Fame, as a Red Raven.

Toodles. G.

Summer in Review part 9

2009-09-30T21:09:00.001-04:00

My Mommy plays Gaelic Footbal and Rugby....what does your Mommy do?

Summer in Review part 8

2009-09-30T21:06:00.001-04:00

Yes....I am potty trained.

Summer in Review part 7

2009-09-30T21:04:00.000-04:00

Hanging out in Walpole.

Summer in Review part 6

2009-09-30T21:02:00.000-04:00

Visiting Papa Bill.

Summer in Review part 5

2009-09-30T21:00:00.002-04:00

Hanging out at the Apple Orchard with the cousins. You really need to go to Berlin Orchards for apples....can you say SUUUUPPPERB.

www.berlinorchards.com

Summer in Review part 4

2009-09-30T20:42:00.000-04:00

Cape Cod in August with Nonna and Papa.

Summer in Review part 3

2009-09-30T20:39:00.000-04:00

Watching Mommy play Gaelic Football.

Summer in Review part 2

2009-09-30T20:37:00.000-04:00

More Saratoga Springs, NY

Summer In Review part 1

2009-09-30T20:29:00.004-04:00

Christina and Jeff's wedding in Saratoga Springs, NY - July 09

Ryan "Superfly" Sweatman

2009-06-01T21:25:00.003-04:00

Hi everyone. This is Ryan, today Grace says I earned the right to make the post. So Grace was telling me about a story that Daddy told her about this man call "Jimmy Superfly Snuka". He would climb up on to just about anything and jump to do cross body takedown. Well, I tell you what, my new nickname might just be Ryan Superfly Sweatman, because I marched right over to the couch, climbed up and tried to take down the coffee table.... guess what, the coffee table won. So as of today my record is 0-1 and the coffee table is 1-0, but I don't think that will last for long. I am 18 months old and I now have two stitches under my belt. Grace will quickly tell you that she got seven back in the cold month of February 2008 at the ripe old age of 17 months. Daddy says that it is a tradition that has been passed down for centuries in the Sweatman clan for the females of the clan to be to have a least one scar on their face and it is our rite of passage. We'll looks like I just got my check in the block.

In other news we are officially out of the old house and we are starting to put our own personal touch on the new house, in fact Grace and I now have a pink room. Grace even got to help paint some of it. We love our new house, our neighbors, and life in general. Oh, I almost forgot, I wanted to say thanks to Nonna and Papa for coming down a couple of weeks ago to help with the move, Daddy and Mommy couldn't stop talking about how they wouldn't have been able to do it without them. Grace also wanted me to thank everyone else who came to help to include Nicole, Sameer, Darlene, Speros, Bree, Terrance, Godfather, and Liam. We promise we'll have a party soon, but we still need to get rid of all of these boxes.

Hopefully, I'll heal soon.

Love, Superfly

Quarterly Update (I will be better I promise)

2009-05-20T21:17:00.003-04:00

Hi everyone, I'm sorry it's been so long since I've given an update. We have been super busy lately and it's only going to get busier, so I better drop a quick note.... In the past month Ryan is full fledge talking (I still need to do help her out quite a bit), I surprise Daddy with things I say just about every day, Mommy has started a new Gaelic Football season, Daddy is still plugging away at school, we went to Erin and Jeff Lockhart's wedding, I went to first communions for Michael and Liam, and there was something else I wanted to share...now what was it...oh Mommy and Daddy bought me and Ryan a new house. We're officially moving in on Saturday, so if you know anyone with a strong back that wants to help please tell them to stop by (I get worried about Daddy, he grunts a lot when he picks things up). Well I will be sure to let you know how the move goes, we are only moving about 3 miles away from where we are now, so you can still stay with us when you come to visit DC. TTFN. G-Sweat

Grace singing with a little back up from Ryan

2009-03-30T19:15:00.003-04:00

I think it's time I get myself some real instruments. Yes, I am only 2 1/2, but the real thing will me to really show my range.

Happy St. Patrick's Day

2009-03-17T17:42:00.002-04:00

Happy St. Patrick's Day from DC!!!

We've had a busy few days. This weekend we spend a good amount of time hanging around the City. Mommy ran in her first 8k in the St. Patrick's race on Sunday. We were all super happy with her performance, especially since she didn't train once...training would have made it too easy.

Daddy took us into the DC to cheer for Mommy (we were late) and go to the parade (we left early)...but his intentions were good.

Ryan and I almost had a chance to march in the Parade. Mommy invited us to march along with her and her Gaelic football team during the parade. We were already to go, but the cold and rain rolled in so we decided to head back home to cozier places.

Here is a little Irish Music and some motivating Gaelic football shots, Mommy is getting ready to start a new season, so if you see her wish her good luck....

Shameless Advertising for Mommy

2009-02-19T20:41:00.002-05:00

I highly recommend you click on the picture and check out the super cool T-shirts that Mommy is trying to hock for her Gaelic Football team. Mommy says all of the cool kids are wearing them, in fact she is making Daddy get one so he can pretend to hang out with the cool kids and he won't stick out like a sore thumb...Mommy's words not mine Daddy. Anyway, click on the picture and if you want a T-Shirt follow the directions and tell them Grace sent you, that won't get you a discount, but it will make me look good.

Like Kung-Fun Panda says, "No extra charge for attractiveness or awesomeness".

Happy Valentine's Day

2009-02-14T08:00:00.001-05:00

Happy Valentine's Day to our Friends and Family. I promise I put a a real post soon. XO XO XO Grace and Ryan

Merry Christmas 2008

2008-12-19T20:43:00.002-05:00

Here is a year in review. There was so much more that happened, but the song isn't that long, so this will have to do. Merry Christmas.

Love Grace and Ryan

My Happytown

2008-12-04T06:27:00.002-05:00

I live in a happytown...Mommy is the Mayor, Daddy is the CFO, and Grace and Ryan are the two princesses. Every town has princessess right. Anyway, here is a quick view of our happytown. Enjoy.

Ryan's First Birthday

2008-11-26T18:42:00.013-05:00

Since it is Ryan's Birthday, I am turning the reigns over to my little sis, its all your's Ryan.

Alright, this is Ryan and I know I haven't posted very much so many of you don't really know what type of girl I am, so hopefully you'll be able to get to know me a little better. I consider myself a little more sophisticated than my older sister. Mommy and Daddy asked what I wanted to do for my first birthday and I promptly replied Filomena's of course. For those of you not familiar with the DC scene, it's just an absolute to die for Italian place in Georgetown, which is nice because there is also some decent shopping in the area.

Anyhoo, Nonna and Papa came to celebrate my birthday with us and as usual they came bearing gifts. Grace and I keep telling them that they really don't need to bring anything because we love them soo much. Now, if Uncle Dan and Aunt Erin come to visit they had better come packing some loot.

Now back to me. Filomena's was delightful, Daddy splurged and ordered two pieces of cake at the end, I started to protest, but couldn't find the words. This might be because I had two hand fulls of cake in my mouth, but it also might be because I don't really know how to speak yet.

Well, that is all for now. Thank you for the birthday wishes. TTFN RyRy.

Daddy is Different and Ryan is Walking!!!

2008-11-15T17:22:00.013-05:00

Daddy is growing a Mustache for the month of November. He says it's for a good cause, but I'm suspect. He keeps calling his mustache his "MO" and he keeps calling this month "Movember". He told me if he doesn't raise enough money to help the fight against prostate cancer then this guy MOstapha from the MOmafia will make Daddy a MOdentured servant and he'll never be able to shave his MO... talk about scary. Daddy is trying to raise money, but I'm concerned for his well being and my reputation, I can't be seen walking around town with him looking like this. Plus I think Ryan is having bad dreams. I caught her twice in the middle of the night grabbing Daddy's MO trying to rip it off.

Breaking NEWS!!!

Ryan has officially taken her first steps tonight. She took four steps toward Mommy three times in a row. Mommy says she would have taken more if I didn't knock her down, but I didn't want her to get a big head. She just started walking under the 1 year mark, she'll be one in six days.

If you want to help Daddy raise money for Prostate Cancer and ensure that the MO doesn't last past November 30th please click on the link below.

DONATE!!!

The money raised by Movember is donated directly to the Prostate Cancer Foundation which will use the funds for high-impact research to find better treatments and a cure for prostate cancer.

More information can be found at http://www.movember.com/

Trick Or Treat

2008-11-06T11:22:00.025-05:00

Ryan and I were so excited for Halloween this year. We got dressed up every day for a week. The first part of the week I was a pumpkin and Ryan was a witch, then on Halloween I decided we should switch thing up a little, so people would recognize us, so I was a witch and Ryan was a pumpkin.

We've been meeting up with Auntie, Maeve, and Dierdre every Friday for "Book School" (aka story hour) at the library, it is so fun seeing them and learning from our teacher. She teaches us songs and reads us books.

The day after Halloween we went to the Navy-Temple Game. Soo much fun. Go Navy-Beat Army.

Quick Skilz Update:

Grace: Using the potty on a regular basis.

Ryan: Standing, Crawling and Getting into all my stuff...

Ryan: Says Mommy, Daddy, Hi, and something that sounds like Grrr (I think that is me)

Grace: Explaining to Mommy and Daddy that "There is nothing you could want"...Daddy is still trying to figure that one out.

Grace: Has all of her teeth.

Ryan: Has none.

Ryan: Claps and Blows Kisses

Grace: Draws pictures and builds towers with blocks

Grace: Counts to twenty.

Ryan: Is almost one.

Yeah for Fall

2008-10-08T22:25:00.003-04:00

We went apple picking and it was so cool. Daddy lifted me way up in the trees to get a big shiny apple, we filled a whole bucket, and then Mommy and me made some apple crisp when we got home it was yummy.

And of course the big news....I'm using the potty...thats right the potty. I have my own dora panties and a potty....when I remember to use it I get chocolate. mmmm chocolate, I think I'll go earn some right now, excuse me.

Road Trip

2008-10-08T22:23:00.003-04:00

Sorry I've been otta touch. Super busy, traveling, parties, fall chores, and potty training. Here is one of two pictoral posts...promise I'll write before the end of the month.

Real quick cliff notes. Nonna turned 60...sorry if I'm diming you out Nonna...we drove to Cape Cod and suprised here with the rest of the fam. Too cool...mommy and aunts take care of her, she's super happy her boys got married. Tooddles.

Daddy says, Mommy loooks hot...I said Mommy not hot pizza hot...

My Birthday Month

2008-09-04T11:41:00.010-04:00

I love September. I started to celebrate my birthday on Labor day weekend and haven't stopped since.

We had so much fun over Labor day weekend. Mommy and Daddy were promising to take me to Cape Cod, then next thing I know they dropped me and Ryan off for the weekend and disappeared.

We had an amazing time at Nonna and Papa's, Cape Cod is great. Ryan was in heaven all weekend because Papa only put her down twice and Nonna and I did all sorts of cool things, we rode on the bike, made pizza and ice cream, and she showed me all over Cape Cod…I even got to go to the “99” for dinner.

Mommy played football all weekend and Daddy watched. Apparently Mommy did an awesome job according to Dad; her team won the North American GAA Junior A Ladies Championship...talk about a mouth full. We are so proud of you Mommy; I’m going to play football like Mommy one day. If you watch Mommy’s highlight tape, she’s #12.

On my actual birthday (Sept 6th), we just hung out at home and had cake, Daddy was in school all weekend so we didn't want to do too much, but I did get to open some gifts.

The best weekend ever was this past weekend. Mommy and Daddy threw me a Birthday Bash with a Moonbounce, a Dora Pinata, and a Margarita Machine...(the last thing was just for them).

I'll let the pictures tell the story, but let me tell you, it was the best party eevaa.

On other news Ryan began to crawl last week and she's cruise'n everywhere. She's getting big. She really likes to make her way around the kitchen table its like a big obstacle course. She's also waving and talking up a storm, but I still can't figure out what she's saying. At her 9 month appointment she was a wopping 20lbs.

TTFN...I'm 2...

SUMMER FUN, FUN, FUN.....

2008-08-12T10:41:00.010-04:00

So much has been happening over the last few weeks. Grandmother Olohan came to visit twice. Nonna and Papa came to visit and drop off a new car for Mommy and Daddy. I went to Warrenton to visit the Olohans. Mary Margaret and Katherine came to visit us at our house. Mommy and Daddy played hookie from work to go on a sail boat. They have also been hanging out on the deck at night enjoying the beautiful weather, which means me and Ryan get to stay up later, while they drink wine... The most fun though was this weekend, my cousin Bridget turned 4, so all of the DC area cousins got together for a pool party (15 of us). We played in the pool and hit the pinnata and had icecream cake and drove around in the jeep and made crafts and and and so much more...

Daddy is trying to keep his head above water at school and Mommy is getting ready for her Gaelic Football finals in Boston at the end of the month...so we are all keeping very busy...

Now for the exciting stuff...a Ryan update...she's been eating baby food for a few months now, but you have to be careful when you're next to her because she'll swipe food right out of your hand. She can also stand if you prop her against something that she can hold on to, plus if you leave the room and come back she'll be somewhere totally different than where you left her. We aren't sure how she does it, but I'm trying to convince Daddy to get a "nanny cam". She is talking more and more, Mommy thinks she says “DaDa” and Daddy thinks she says “MaMa”, but I think she is just babbling. Daddy says Ryan's smile is one to love, just like Mommy's.

Oh and one more thing, the guy at the Starbucks called me a princess the other day, it made me so excited, I couldn't stop talking about it. Daddy warned me not to fall for the first guy that calls me a princess, but I really liked it and hope I get more compliments like that. Daddy also says I'm a little vain...but I just know I’m beautiful like Mommy.

One last thing I promise. I want to be a football player like Mommy. This weekend she played Philly (at least that's what Dad calls it, I like to call it Philadelphia the City of Brotherly Love). They haven't beat them for years, but Mommy stole the ball in the last couple of seconds and set up one of her teammates for the winning score....she's awesome. It's hard to see, but she's number 14 and you'll hear people yelling "You got it Margaret", that's Mommy. Roll the tape please (it's an old person term).

One Fell Off and Bumped Her Head

2008-07-18T23:14:00.006-04:00

I may or may not have bumped my head today. I may or may not have had a “contact seizure”. I may or may not have been strapped down to a board. I may not have had a ride in the bus today (a.k.a. an ambulance). And I may or may not have been to the emergency room for a head injury for the second time this year. I don’t know? I can’t remember. Just kidding; I did, I did, I did, I did, and I was.

No worries, I’m OK, after a scaring Mommy half to death and making Daddy rush home from work, the Doc gave me a clean bill of health. It finally caught up to me, over the last month I’ve been climbing more and getting myself into more and more precarious situations. Today I was horsing around with Mommy in the kitchen and tried to do a back flip off her arm. I didn’t tuck my head and I wasn’t in a pool. Daddy left out some important details when he was explaining the maneuver to me.

I suppose I should update you on the rest of the fam while I’m here. Mommy’s been playing football and is going to have a girls weekend with Auntie Erin Scheaffer (recently engaged, a testimate that miracles do happen). As for Daddy, he’s been MIA for the last few weeks studying for school, he says it will take him a bit to find his “Grad School Groove”, but I think I won’t really see him again until I’m 4. Then there is little sister. She’s becoming my best friend; I can’t wait until she starts crawling. She gets up on all fours, but she doesn’t seem to go anywhere. Actually that’s not true, she can go backwards, but only when she’s sitting. I hope she figures it out soon, I need a spotter.

I Love Hay-Ga-Bers!

2008-07-05T12:49:00.012-04:00

Cape Cod is one of the best places on earth. Ryan and I went to Nonna and Papa's house for a week and did so many things. The beach was my favorite thing. Here is a picture of Mommy, Ryan, Auntie Lauren, and Oliver on South Cape Beach. I was too distracted by the water to smile for the camera.

Papa and Ryan are buddies.

Auntie Lauren and Oliver were there for the week too. Charley, the dog, was there and we were at odds for the first half of the trip but by the end we were friends. Every time I had a cookie in my hand he'd come along and swipe it from me! As long as I told him "no barking!" and "no swiping!" he didn't bother me. I saw so many people - cousin Anne Marie and Erin, my Auntie Maria and Uncle Chris, and that was only at Nonna's house!

Ryan at 7 months and I am 21 months.

We went house-hopping all over the Massachusetts to see my Olohan cousins and my grandma Kathy. Mommy decided she missed daddy too much and one day put us in the car and we drove straight to DC with only stopping once for gas! She was so proud of me and Ryan because we didn't cry once. The icecream bribes worked for her this time :)

With our Olohan cousins.

We spent the 4th of July at the Gleasons and I went on my first moon-bounce. It was awesome. It was kinda rainy but that didn't stop me. I was the only little girl covered in mud at the party, but mommy said mud is good for your skin so it was okay.

I am talking in full sentences now and have no problem expressing my mind. The only word I have a lot of trouble with is "hay-ga-bers"...Mommy says it "hamburger" but I can't quite say it like that. "Hay-ga-bers" with ketchup are my favorite.

My Mommy's An Awesome Gaelic Footballer

2008-06-17T22:12:00.007-04:00

This weekend Mommy played her second Gaelic football game. She was awesome. At least I think she was. She scored a few times, knocked some girls down, and played mad defense. I can't wait until I'm old enough to play next to her, she can pass me the ball so I can score.

Daddy, Ryan and I cheered for her the whole game, her friend Taylor "Noise" showed up as well. Afterwards we all went to the pub for some refreshments, I love Irish sports.

Mommy has another game this weekend in Charlotte, NC, so Daddy is going to take care of us for a few days. He's getting ready to go back to school part time, so he promised we'll go shopping for his Trapper Keeper and pencils.

Check ya laters...

Remembering Grandma GG

2008-06-01T15:59:00.005-04:00

November 17, 1919 - May 27, 2008

My great-grandmother, GG, went to heaven last week. GG died in the middle of heart surgery. I was excited to go visit her after her surgery so I could kiss the owie on her heart, but Mommy said she had to go to heaven to be with Grandpa Charlie and Uncle Tony. I'm happy she is there because now I have my very own GG angel looking out for me. I'm still getting confused because I will ask Daddy to go see Nonna and GG and I forget GG isn't here anymore. I have to remember that now she's always with me it's just that I can't see my GG anymore. We will all miss you Grandma!

Della Ann Vendur Zoffuto, 88, Indiana, Pa., formerly of Brockway, died Tuesday at University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Shadyside Hospital in Pittsburgh.
Born Nov. 17, 1919, she was the daughter of the late Sullivan and Grace (Quarante) Vendur. She was married to Charles Zoffuto. He preceded her in death in August, 2000.
She was a member of St. Bernard of Clairvaux Roman Catholic Church, where she served as a Eucharistic Minister.
She was a member of the Catholic Daughters of America, Indiana Hospital Alumni Association and a member of the Pennsylvania Nurses Association.
She is survived by one son, Michael Zoffuto and wife Marcy; one daughter, Teresa Sweatman and husband Michael, Daughter-in-law, LouAnn Zoffuto, Linda Pandolfo and husband Tony and one brother, Sullivan Vendur; 11 grandchildren; Charles Zoffuto and wife Andrea, Phillip Zoffuto, Thomas Sweatman and wife Margaret, Christopher Sweatman and wife Lauren, Daniel Sweatman and wife Erin, Kristen Sharp and husband James, Anne Marie Zoffuto, Teresa Megan Zoffuto, Charles McIntyre Zoffuto, Erin Scheaffer, and Katie Scheaffer; and seven great-grandchildren, Grace Mary and Ryan Catherine Sweatman, Oliver Richard Sweatman, Isabelle Sarah Zoffuto, Julia Grace Zoffuto, James Hudson and Samuel Issac Sharp.
She was also preceded in death by one son, Anthony Zoffuto; two sisters, Mary McCurdy and Marietta Salerno; and four brothers: Thomas Vendur, Michael Vendur, Alfred Vendur and John Vendur.

Getting bigger and better every month!

2008-05-11T14:52:00.013-04:00

Hello. One may ask where have I been since it’s been over a month since my last entry. Well let me tell you that I have a good excuse. I’ve been busy busy busy.

I saw the Pope, super cool. My cousins from formely of Pittsburgh have come to visit several times now that they've moved to Virginia. Mommy has started to play Gaelic Football and Daddy has begun to study for graduate school. Spring is here so Daddy put new sand in the sandbox and I’ve been helping him mow the lawn. The Kellys moved into a new house, so we got to help them move and Grandmother Olohan came to visit for a few days too. We’ve gone into DC a few times to see friends, we went to the National Mall and to the zoo.

This weekend Nonna and Papa came to watch me and Ryan while Mommy and Daddy went to Baltimore for Sammy and Megahn Lanasa's wedding. This was the fist time both Mommy and Daddy left us for the entire night. Ryan and I love it when Nonna and Papa come. Ryan gets to be held the whole time and I always have someone to read to me or play ball with.

Ryan and I are getting closer and closer every day. Mommy even plops her down on the sofa next to me and leaves the room; this is good and bad. When she cries I automatically get blamed for doing something to her. I don’t see what the big deal is, she makes a great step stool and likes to help me get those hard to reach items.

Ryan and I have also reached some big milestones this month. I can count my toes (I have ten), I can count the steps (there are 15), and I can say my alphabet. Sometimes I miss a number or a letter here and there, but I think I’ve been pretty consistent. I am getting ready to move into a toddler bed soon and have been toying with the idea of getting potty trained. As for Ryan, she laughs at me when I make funny noises, gets a really big smile when she sees Mommy or Daddy, drinks from a bottle, and grabs whatever she can get her hands on.

Here is a video we took a few weeks ago. VIDEO

Here Comes Peter Cottontail!

2008-03-23T20:13:00.002-04:00

What an Easter it was! Ryan had the best 1st Easter ever. We kicked it off with a visit to Bob and Grazyna's house for coffee on Saturday and the party just kept on going. Ryan and I had matching Easter dresses. I was so proud of my little sister that I kept pointing her out to anyone who would look our way. I'm pretty sure the whole church saw how pretty Ryan looked thanks to me. The Easter Bunny brought so many treats, but my favorite thing was all the Easter Eggs he hid in our backyard! My cousins, the Kellys, came over and helped us hunt for the eggs. My belly sure does hurt from eating all that chocolate! We finished our celebration with brunch...Daddy says any holiday that calls for mimosas is one he wants to celebrate. Mom says that any guy that can pull off a pink shirt can pull off drinking mimosas. Not sure what that all means but I'm glad my daddy wears pink cause it's my favorite color.

Happy St. Patrick's Day

2008-03-17T08:18:00.004-04:00

This song, The Old Man, is dedicated to the great fathers in
our lives that have left this world, especially Bill Olohan and Tony Zoffuto.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NNL_wGZgV5Q

Have a Guinness for me since Daddy won't share his...

Another Valuable Life Lesson:

2008-02-11T19:42:00.000-05:00

Mommy and Daddy were really into sports growing up and they still reminisce over the good ol'days of running around on the rugby field. Daddy has told me I'm allowed to do any sport I want when I'm big enough. This weekend I expressed an interest in the sport of diving. This was Daddy and Mommy's first VETO on my sport of choice. They did explain to me it was a temporary VETO until I had a chance to learn to swim, so I could actually practice in a pool instead of the side of the bed.

The good news: I think I perfected my swan dive.
The bad news: It resulted in a trip to the emergency room and seven stitches.

The dive must have been good because the laceration was perfectly symmetrical in the dead center of my forehead.

Needless to say, I know have more stitches under my belt than the majority of my cousins and as far as we know it didn't result in any permanent damage. Mommy is concerned about scaring. Daddy has mixed feelings on the issue he said, "Maybe it is better, when your older, that boys focus on your forehead instead of your beautiful blues." As Mommy is always saying to Daddy, "I think there may have been a compliment hidden in there." As for Ryan, all she could do is laugh, I don't hold it against her, since that is all she does.

Anyway, I thought I would share my new life lesson, "Swan diving off the bed is a bad idea." Love, Grace.

Super Bowl Brawl

2008-02-04T08:00:00.000-05:00

Our home is usually a united front against all enemies foreign and domestic, but last night the battle lines were drawn. The Patriots vs the Giants on TV and Grace vs Daddy, Mommy, Ryan, Nonna, and Papa at home.

I have my reasons for choosing to root for the Patriots and it all goes back to my maternal family roots. Mommy comes from a long line of Pats fans, which makes this whole episode last night even more tragic. Mommy and Ryan were supposed to be on my side, but Daddy seems to have this ability to convince Mommy to do things against her better judgment. Anyway, that left me, as the lone Pats fan in the room last night. I was sure they were going to run away with it, but I guess it wasn't in the cards for Belichick and crew to enter the land of "Perfectville".

Needless to say, home life will be difficult knowing that I stand alone on this issue. This sad Patriot fan is signing off to go back to my lonely highchair in this house of Giants fans. Seriously who would pick Eli over Brady…. Oh, well.

Papa explaining the inner workings of the Giants to Ryan...we were so happy to have Papa watching the game with us instead of being in Arizona on the sidelines!

After losing Ryan made me kiss the Giants behind...so humiliating. Wasn't losing enough???

Daddy has the size, but I've got the speed.

I Heart NY

2008-01-23T08:11:00.000-05:00

I also Heart Google

This was a very exciting trip for me since it was my first NYC experience. The weekend started out with a bang by having Speros and Bree sleepover my house and drive up with us to New York. I'm a big fan of those two ever since they took care of me while my sister Ryan was being born. We then saw my Uncle Ryan at his Google office. Daddy says those Googlers are awfully spoiled. I loved Uncle Ryan's office - they have game rooms, free gourmet food, and my favorite was the Razor scooters people used to get around.

Uncle Dan and Aunt Erin Marry in the Big Apple!

The Happy Couple

She Could Have Danced All Night!

This was the best wedding I've ever been to. Daddy says for me not to let this wedding set the bar for my wedding. He suggested I become a nun. Anyway, Nonna and Papa hosted a fancy rehearsal dinner at the Harvard Club. Erin went to Harvard - my auntie's wicked smaat. She's also wicked pretty, just like a princess. The wedding was on Park Avenue and it was a military wedding. Uncle Dan and Uncle Chris wore their Navy uniforms and Daddy looked so handsome in his Marine uniform. I grew very clingy to Nonna and Papa this weekend so it was no surprise that I wanted them to hold me the whole ceremony.

I love Nonna and Papa

Mommy took me home in the middle of the cocktail hour because I think she and daddy wanted to have fun. Grandma Kathy came from Boston to watch Ryan and me all weekend. Because I missed a lot of the fun stuff I'll just include a bunch of pictures this blog so you can get an idea of how much fun everyone had!

Daddy and Mommy Enjoying Their Night Out

Proud Older Brother

Sweatman Sisters

Dancing Fools!

My sister Ryan is getting big!

GO GIANTS!!

Christmas 2007

2008-01-01T20:04:00.000-05:00

Hi everybody, I guess by now you know that my name is Ryan Catherine and I'm a little over one month old. Grace said that I can write this month since she's still recovering from Christmas.

I thought I would start my inaugural post by taking a moment to tell everyone where Mommy and Daddy came up with my beautiful name. It's actually a great story, and means the world to me. My Grandma Big Kathy's maiden name is Catherine Ryan. My parents wanted to honor my mother's mother because I'm told she's a living saint. The reason they didn't name me Catherine is because I already have 3 cousins with that name (and mommy loves my name). I've gained over a pound in the last month, and I feel like I'm getting bigger and stronger every day.

In the last month I've met so many people, it has sort of been a blur. It has only been a month and I've met all of my Grandparents (except Papa Bill in heaven), five Aunts and Uncles, ten Cousins, Godparents, and a bunch of Mommy and Daddy's friends. I'm not sure I'm ready for this family. It seems to be "Non-Stop Action", as Daddy would say. I don't really know if this sounds crazy, but a little over a month ago Mommy and Daddy went to the hospital to have me, since then they've hosted three parties and have had eleven house guests. I've been feeling a little overwhelmed, so I can't imagine how they feel. Grace has been a wreck, running around like a chicken with her head cut off playing with all of her cousins, opening presents and working on four stubborn teeth have peeking their way through her gums for weeks.

Since there has been so much going on, I have tried avoiding most of it and sleeping as much as I can during the day. Mommy hasn't been a big fan of this since I am up most of the night. Last week I decided to officially wake up. This was primarily due to the excitement of Christmas and the prospect of being baptized.

Last Sunday Mommy and Daddy hosted an Open House for Christmas. Then they went on to host Christmas Eve Dinner, they did the feast of seven fishes. This past Saturday I was baptized at St. Mary's of Rockville, where F. Scott Fitzgerald is buried. A priest even traveled all the way from New Jersey to baptize me, thank you Fr. Grimm. It has all been so exciting.

Thank you everyone who sent gifts, card, emails, and phone calls asking about how me and Mommy are doing. We're both doing great and I look forward to meeting all of you. I hope you had a Merry Christmas and you have a Happy New Year.

Our Thanksgiving Adventure

2007-11-25T16:29:00.000-05:00

Mommy was worried we were going to have an uneventful Thanksgiving this year since we weren't going anywhere special or having anyone over for dinner. Little did she know that our Thanksgiving was going to be NON-STOP ACTION...

It all started out on Wednesday when Mommy found out that my baby sister was going to make an early entrance because Mommy needed to be induced immediately due to a slight complication. Mommy and Daddy seemed a little stressed out since they couldn't take me to pick up my sister and virtually everyone they knew was out of town for Thanksgiving. I volunteered to stay home by myself, but they didn't quite understand what I was saying. Anyway, they remembered that Bree and Speros would be in town and they were gracious enough to change their Thanksgiving plans to take care of me! Mommy says she's indebted to them for life because she wouldn't have been able to deliver my sister if she knew I wasn't being taken care of.

So Mommy and Daddy left me with Bree and Speros in the middle of the night. I tried my hardest to be a good little girl while they were gone, Daddy says everyone in this family needs to carry thier own weight, I'm sure glade I'm only 24lbs.

So on Thanksgiving Day, my sister, Ryan Catherine, was born at 11:52 am. I think she smelled the turkey and wanted some for lunch. She was only 6 lbs 8.5 oz which is much smaller than I was (8 lbs), but she's just as tough as me and with a little more hair. I'm very proud of Ryan and think she's the prettiest little sister ever made. I give her hugs and kisses every time I see her.

Mommy said that delivering Ryan was a whole lot easier than I was, I like to think that I was worth the extra effort, but I must say I'm a big fan of my little sister. This was the best Thanksgiving ever, we have so much to be thankful for, Mommy and Ryan are healthy and I'm a big sister, plus Daddy gave me a stuffed animal for being such a peach. Now on top of everything else Nonna and Poppa are in town to help out. I love Thanksgiving, I can't wait to see what is going to happen next Thanksgiving, I think this should be our new tradition.

Mommy and Daddy asked me to personnally thank everyone who was praying for us on thanksgiving. Our family is greatful for all of the thoughts and prayers of those around us.

Shameless Self-Promotion

2007-10-17T07:28:00.000-04:00

Here are a few pictures that were taken recently.

Daddy and I looking at the birds before going to church

Father James and I at the Dominican House of Studies...Go Friars!

Me and the cousins. Maeve and Dierdre or is it Dierdre and Maeve?

CHEEEZZZ

Don't hate me because I'm beautiful....

My Vocabulary and Other Cool Tricks

2007-10-09T20:08:00.000-04:00

I thought I would share with my devoted fans the 10 words of my new Vocabulary (in no particular order):

1) Apple (definitely the clearest and most obvious word I say in context)
2) Elmo
3) Happy
4) Hi
5) Hi Dad (realize this is a repeat word BUT it's my first and favorite phrase so I think it's list-worthy)
6) Up
7) Duck
8) Babe
9) Eyes
10) Out

I have said Nonna, Papa, and Kathy (as they will all attest to) but I'm only including my everyday words. Of course I have known what is going on around me for quit some time now, I have just had trouble vocalizing, so I’ve been communicating through the written word (with Daddy’s help), but soon enough I will be dictating my blogs, since it may be a while before I can type.

When you ask me how old I am, I will hold up 1 finger and say "uh!" which sounds nothing like "one" but my lips are still tough to control.

Now when I want you to pick me up, I say "up!". I'm working on the "please", but just saying "up!" is much more to the point.

I dance anytime I hear a beat, whether it's a lawn mower outside, tv commercial, or music pumping throughout a department store.

Sometimes after Mass I put on a show for all the old people by dancing for them and doing this loud raspy laugh that may or may not be a little fake. I also lift my shirt to show them all my belly and flexed to show them my muscles. Mommy says I'm now the most popular little lady at St Mary's. I will point out my teeth, belly, toes, eyes and nose. I will only say "eye", but I'm working on the rest. I know that cows say "Moo", horses say "Nay", and sheep say "Ba Ba".

I'm officially sleeping in my own room all night long and drinking from a bottle. I'm taking on more responsibility around the house; after all I'm going to be an older sister in less than two months. I am even helping Mommy out with a little light housework.

My 1st Birthday and I’m Walking, Talking, Singing, and Dancing…

2007-09-04T10:58:00.000-04:00

I LOVE cake! Bubbles are fun too.
Happy 1st Birthday to Me!
This is my Papa. He and Nonna took me all sorts of places for my birthday weekend.
This is my new house. Much bigger than my place in the city isn't it?
This is my cousin Kate playing with me at my birthday party. Daddy dressed me today! Aren't I beautiful?

So many things have happened in the last month: a new house, Olohan family reunion, teeth are popping up, and I’m walking, talking, singing, and dancing. Ok, ok, so the talking and singing part can be argued since most everyone has not idea what I’m saying or singing, but I assure you I have a lot to say.

On Thursday, September 6th, I will officially be 1 year old. Mommy went into labor with my on Sept 4th, my Papa Bill and Grandma Kathy's wedding anniversary.

We celebrated my birthday yesterday because Nonna and Papa were in town and they let me get away with a lot more than Mommy and Daddy so I figured I should get the party in while I could. I’m not sure what I like best about birthdays - the people, the outfits, the gifts, or the cake? I loved it all.

BABY SISTER COUNTDOWN: T-3 months (happy third trimester Mommy)
So much has happened so I’m going to keep this entry short and add more pictures. Like they say, a picture is worth a thousand words.

Non-Stop Action All Summer Long

2007-07-23T21:16:00.000-04:00

I can’t seem to get any rest. My life seems to be non-stop action and July has been no exception. We began this month with the 4th of July celebration. We went to the National Mall and spent the entire day outside waiting for the fire works when sun went down. A big storm forced everyone to evacuate the mall, so we took cover in the Native American Indian Museum. Once the storm passed we rushed outside and were able to get our “Showtime” seats back. The fireworks were awesome, even though I fell asleep right when they started.

The best news of the month is that I am going to be a big sister. Mommy had someone put a TV camera on her belly and we saw my little SISTER!!! It took me a little while to accept the fact that I wasn’t going to be the only little girl running around the house come December, which is probably why I broke into tears as soon as the belly camera lady said we were getting another little girl. Plus, Daddy broke the news to me that I’m going to have to share my blog, but I could keep my name on it for now. I’m really looking forward to her arrival. It will be just like getting another baby doll to play with.'

More good news this month was that my cousin Oliver Richard Sweatman arrived! I could go into details, but you can read for yourself on the “Little Baby Sweatman” link on the left.

Other things that happened this month were that the Kelly’s arrived from Seattle. They are living in Potomac, MD for a few months until they figure out where they want to settle down. I finally met the “Seattle Olohan’s”, but I guess they will soon be the “Maryland Olohan’s” which is confusing because they are actually Kelly’s. I think I will just stick with what Dad calls them, “The Smelly Kelly’s”…. The best thing about having them around is that I have instant playmates. I’m a little concerned about the Twins - I think there is a chance they may be trouble, but the jury is still out. They tag team me and I’m not sure I’m tough enough to win that battle.

I went to Atalanta, Georgia, Daddy kept calling it Hotlanta and ATL, I have no idea where he gets this stuff. While I was down there I met all sorts of people I hadn't met before, Aunts, Uncles, and Cousins. It was Terri and Mike Fabian's wedding, which was great, because I got to get all dressed up in my puffy dress. This weekend wiped me out, Nonna and GG kept me really busy. Its great to see them, but when we got home I slept almost all day long.

I have been crawling, climbing and cruising all over the place. Daddy says I’m ready to walk on my own, but I think I’ll take my time, besides if I walk too soon I may get bow legs like Daddy and Daddy says if I’m lucky I’ll have legs like Mommy.

Our condo is under contract so we will have to move out by mid-August. Mommy and Daddy found a great house in Rockville, MD for us to rent. There is a huge yard, nice deck, and I will have my own room. Daddy said I have been given an official eviction notice for their bed, I don’t really know what that means, but it doesn’t sound good. I think I’m going to miss the condo.

9 Months Was a Good Age

2007-06-26T13:47:00.000-04:00

This is me at 9 months old. I have two teeth on the bottom starting to come through. I'm standing by myself a lot more now and I like to wave to everyone. People are so nice to me!

My aunt and uncle visited. Lauren should give birth to my boy cousin any week now. I've met lots of my Olohan cousins and I can't wait to meet my 1st Sweatman cousin.

I went to my first baseball game! Since this picture I went two more times. Can't you see how excited I am! I had so much fun eating hot dogs and trying to drink daddy's beer. We went to the Congressional Baseball game too. I didn't understand why politicians were playing baseball, but I guess there's lots of stuff I'll learn once I'm 10 months.

This month I also got to see Nonna and Papa again for Father's Day. Papa is a marine and took me to his reunion banquet while Mommy and Daddy had a date. I met so many fun people and stayed up til midnight playing with everyone! I was very proud of Papa. Everyone liked him very much and he even took me to the wedding next door to dance. He's good at the electric slide.

Memorial Day

2007-05-29T10:04:00.000-04:00

This was my first Memorial Day Weekend and it was so fun! Saturday we had people over to BBQ and then mommy left us to go get her Mother's Day massage that I gave her as a gift. She was very happy. I'm a good gift-giver I guess. Sunday we went to Robert and Grazyna's house for lunch. I loved it there! They had so many pretty flowers for me to try to pick and lots of dirt for me to try to eat. They are very nice to me. They said I was allowed to pick their pretty flowers, but Mommy wouldn't let me.

Yesterday we went to Great Falls with Bree and Speros! We saw waterfalls, snakes, lizards, and deer. Afterwards we went over to the base and went swimming for my first time ever. It was really cold, but I hope to do it again soon.

This is me with Bree. Isn't she fun?

Time is Flying By

2007-05-22T20:49:00.000-04:00

I am so sorry. I can't believe its been a month since my last entry. Once again, I have been a busy, busy little lady. I went to Nashville, Tennessee to visit my Dad's family, his Grandma (my Great Grandma), his Aunt and Uncle, and a bunch of his cousins. Of course the best part was that I got to ride down with Nonna and Papa. Nonna introduced me to a bunch of new foods like these long red sticks she was calling Twizzlers and these tastey things called oatmeal cookies. They were yummy. She also didn't make me sit in my car seat, she's so much nicer than Mommy and Daddy.

After we got back from our southern adventure Mommy and I were homeless for a few days while our floors were being replaced at home. I never knew how much I loved being outside. Mommy and Daddy always had me all bundled up whenever we went outside, but now that its so nice and sunny out they let me explore the world.

I'm crawling all over the condo now, I even tried to attempt a stair climb, but Daddy wasn't having any of that. My other neat trick is that I can pull myself up so I'm standing by the coffee table and I pull everything down onto the floor so I can play with it.

Daddy says that I'm growing like a weed. He measured me and I'm 26 inches long and at least 20 lbs. Daddy used higher math to figure out that when I'm Mommy's height (68 inches) I will be over 2400lbs.... Lets hope that I don't continue to grow with my current height/weight ratio.

I promise I will write back again. Toodles...Grace.

Leave of Absence

2007-04-24T21:14:00.000-04:00

Hello, I've missed all of you so very much. I had to take a leave of absence in order to take care of some very important business.

First off it’s really hard to believe how much I’ve grown over the past month. Every day Daddy says I look chubbier; I’m starting to understand what Momma was talking about when she said he doesn’t really know how to speak to little ladies. Anyway, I do admit I’m getting big. I started the month off by rolling around to get where I needed to go, but now I’m crawling forward, backward, and sometimes sideways. I’m discovering some many new things around the house, it seem like every time I find something new to put in my mouth, I’m having it taken away from me. I’ve also discovered unless someone is taking it away from me it’s not worth having.

So now its time for my excuses for why I’ve been away for so long, and I’ll start with the biggest one first. I had to go up to Massachusetts for two weeks to take care of my Auntie Sheila and the boys.

You see Auntie Sheila was 9 months pregnant, and while she could still move like Daddy going for the last donut, my cousins are a rambuncous group. While it was tough work, Momma and I whipped the Beirne boys into shape. Momma said it was good I was there to teach the boys how to treat a little girl since their little sister showed up a few days before we left.

I had a great time in good ol’Mass. I played with the boys, but more importantly I had a chance to see my Grandparents. I spent so much time with Big Kathy, she was great, she took me for walks, she would sing to me, and read to me, but I must say my favorite part was when she let me ride the bike and fight off a big bad wolf. I also got to see Nonna and Papa at their house on Cape Cod, I really can’t wait to go there in the summer, can you say bikini? I also got to see some more cousins I hadn’t met, which put me over the half way mark for meeting cousins, only fourteen more to go.

One of the other reasons why I haven’t written was that somehow I forgot my camera when I was packing my things from my trip. I’m eagerly awaiting its return, but until then I’ll just have to use some file photos from snapfish.

Well, I'm back home now. I would have stayed longer, but Daddy was really sounding sad on the phone. Sometimes I find it hard to believe he's a Marine, it seems he can't do anything for very long without me and Momma. When I got home he was so happy to see us, so I made Mommy promise him we wouldn't leave him for that long again. Mommy said next time I could stay with him while she takes a trip, I'm not sure why she had such a big smile on her face.

This weekend we’re going to Tennessee meet some family from my Dad’s side, I’ll be sure to send a full report on my return.

When Irish Eyes are Smiling!

2007-03-12T10:19:00.000-04:00

DC held a parade for Daddy's 32nd Birthday! Mommy said it was to celebrate St. Patrick and Papa Bill being from Ireland. There was lots of dancing, singing, clapping and lots of people wearing green. I'm told that one day I'll be Irish dancing just like the little girls in the parade. I love parades!

Grace loves her Great Grandpa Zoffuto's hat! Tom bringing some Italian to the parade.

Kiss Me, I'm Irish!

Avacados, Bananas, Carrots - Oh My!

2007-03-02T15:13:00.000-05:00

I'm 6 months old this week! I've been here only a 1/2 year and I've already seen and done so much. I'm really excited to see what Spring is like. I hear I can leave my winter coat and hat in the closet!

Since I am growing so fast I am hungry around the clock! Daddy told me that I need to eat less and sleep more so mommy wouldn't be up so much in the night. It was all part of my plan to try something other than milk! It worked because Mommy gave me avacados this week! They are so yummy, I love them!

This camera follows my every move! Can't a baby get a break even during dinner?

Busy, Cold, Wet Week

2007-02-21T17:44:00.000-05:00

Since we returned from San Diego, it's been non-stop-fun.

Busy - We had a small dinner party and we went to visit the Pittsburg Olohans.

Cold - We had an ice storm in DC and it snowed in Pittsburg.

Wet - Ice melted, it rained, and I peed on Daddy (the jury said I'm not at fault).

Fist things first, Mommy and Daddy had some friends over for Fish Tacos and Margaritas. They were both craving them, but never really got a chance to enjoy them in San Diego, so they brought San Diego to the condo. Nicole, Darlene, and Anand came over for dinner and like usual Mommy and Daddy put together a great feast. The only problem with the whole dinner party thing was I didn’t get to bed until super late and then we turned around and jumped in the car the next morning on our way to Pittsburg. Needless to say, I let the Rents know my dissatisfaction on the second half of the trip.

I didn’t realize I had so many cool cousins that lived so close. I think there were eight, plus my Auntie and Uncle. Everyone was so excited to meet me, I love them all very much, but I think I had the most fun with Barry. He’s a couple months older than I am and a little bit taller, but I’m definitely a little bit thicker around the middle.

So about this incident that occurred last night, it’s totally not my fault. Mommy was changing my diaper when she decided that we should have a photo session of me in my Birthday suit. I distinctly remember Daddy telling her she was tempting fate, as he took pictures of me and Momma. Like most photo sessions Mommy looks at the pictures Daddy took and decides she needs to be the one taking pictures. Well, I can only hold it for so long and Daddy knew darn well that this could potentially end in a bad way for him. He must have a memory of a goldfish, because he was smiling and holding me while I posed for Mommy’s pictures without a care in the world. Well, Daddy I’m sorry, but like you always say don’t gamble if you’re not ready to accept the lose. I love you :)

Sun and Rugby in San Diego!

2007-02-13T18:39:00.000-05:00

I was a West Coast baby all last week and all I can say is "Surfs Up Dude!"

I visited Erin and Uncle Dan in Sunny San Diego while Daddy was working the rugby tournament for the South African team. While we were there Mommy celebrated her 26th birthday. Daddy says she's just a baby, but I know that's not true because I'm just the baby. I had lots of firsts this vacation. My first time to the beach, my first rugby tournament, my first pair of sunglasses and my first time pushing myself into the crawling position (although I didn't actually crawl).

Erin & Dan sure know how to make me laugh! They took such good care of me and babysat me while Mommy and Daddy went out. Dan says I'm sticky, but I can tell he likes me.

These are my friends on the South African rugby team. They really liked me and I thought they were really fun! They said I looked just like Daddy.

My 1st trip to the beach. See how I sit all by myself?

My family enjoying rugby together at my first game.

To Grandmother's House I Go!

2007-01-28T16:26:00.000-05:00

I had the best week! First, I experienced my first snow! It was beautiful - like baby's breath falling from the sky. I want to always live someplace where it snows. The best part of my week was taking the train to New Jersey to visit with Nonna and Papa.

Nonna took me shopping and bought me the prettiest dresses to wear to Auntie Teri's wedding in July. She also took me to restaurants and I met her friend Debbie. I liked Debbie because she held me so I could sleep. Nonna spoiled me so much. I'm missing her lots cause Mommy and Daddy don't hold me all the time like Nonna does. I'm missing Papa too because he makes me laugh when he pretends he's an elephant!

Papa retired! I am sooo happy because now I can see him all the time. I hope that he doesn't give up football completely because I really want him to teach me how to throw and kick a football. Whoever said that girls can't play football never met my mommy or her sisters.

I am almost 5 months old and am getting so strong. I can almost sit up by myself! Daddy is taking us to San Diego on the 3rd to visit Uncle Dan and to watch rugby. I can't wait!

A New Year, A Big ME!

2007-01-10T15:44:00.000-05:00

I am 4 months old and have so many important things to share with you now that I'm a big girl. For starters, I'm 15 lbs. My doctor told me so. More impressive is that my head is in the 95th percentile for my age...I have a big brain! No wonder I'm wicked smart! So I've been sick with a cold (thanks Dad) for the start of the new year but that hasn't stopped me from wanting to try rice cereal. The jury is still out on whether I like it or not. I'll get back to you.

I spent my first New Years Eve party with Speros, Bree, Chris, Hunter, Marc and Zarya. Then my first visitor in 2007 was my Grandma Kathy. We had so much fun. It actually was 70 degrees during her visit and we saw the Cherry Blossoms on the mall!

Well, I'm pooped. I've been working so hard today. I'm trying desperately to crawl but so far it's been very difficult. Man, I wish I were 8 months old...maybe my older cousins can get me a fake I.D. Shhhh, don't tell Mommy! I just want to be big like all those people I see walking and talking. I love Daddy but having to communicate through him to the rest of the world isn't as easy as it looks. I think lots gets lost in translation. I think he'll be very proud of me when I can talk all on my own.

Christmas in New Jersey

2006-12-31T14:16:00.000-05:00

I had the best 1st Christmas ever! We spent Christmas in New Jersey with Papa and Nonna. Papa was kinda down cause the Giants lost but I did my best to make him smile. GG was there too! I love my GG (that's short for great grandmother). I got to meet my Uncle Dan and Auntie Erin from San Diego for the first time and they were really fun. I also met my Uncle Ryan and Auntie Anne and my three cousins Anna Cate, William and Jack. Speaking of cousins, I was told I'm going to have a new Sweatman cousin! I can't wait since I have lots and lots of Olohan cousins I figured that we Sweatman's need to catch up! Auntie Lauren and Uncle Chris are expecting a baby in July. That was the best Christmas gift I could've gotten. How did Santa know I wanted a new cousin? Mommy is very impressed with Auntie Lauren because she looks great and is coping with Morning Sickness much better than mommy did. I guess I gave mom lots of grief when I was in her tummy.

I have a tooth coming in and it's a drag. Must go chew something!

A Busy 2 Weeks!

2006-12-17T15:07:00.000-05:00

Navy beats Army! Daddy and I watched his college team play football and had so much fun. I wore my Navy outfit but people kept thinking I was a boy all weekend.
Auntie Sheila and my cousins came to DC for a visit. We went to the zoo, the White House, and on lots and lots of train rides. I hope they come visit me again very soon. My cousins give me so much attention. They tell me they want a little sister so badly. I wish I had 4 older brothers, but maybe Santa will bring me 4 little brothers instead!
It was a big week for momma. She gave up working so she could stay home with me. I'm so happy! I got to meet many of her work friends at her company's Christmas party. Mommy looked beautiful! Nicole watched me while Mommy and Daddy were out. I think I behaved well enough to have her want to watch me again. She's a really cool Auntie.
I wanted to put a picture up of just me because that's the point of this blog, right? I'm getting really big. I'm almost 14 lbs (mommy estimates). My hair is not as blonde as it used to be, but it's not black like mommy's yet. I still look like Daddy, but I have mommy's blue eyes! I'm one good looking Sweatman!

My 1st Christmas Party

2006-12-04T16:20:00.000-05:00

Mommy and Daddy have lots of friends! Saturday they had a party for Christmas and I got to dress up like Mrs Claus! I'm not sure who Mrs Claus is, but everyone kept telling me I looked like her. She must be one beautiful lady! This is my first Christmas ever and already I know it's going to be my holiday!

My 1st Thanksgiving

2006-11-28T10:06:00.000-05:00

Me with Mommy and my Aunts Maria & Sheila
Cousin John Paul
Auntie Erin
Grandma, Auntie Sheila, Mommy, Cousin Gerard and John Paul
My family in Uncle Gerard's Apple Orchard

Auntie Katie's Visit

2006-11-20T17:12:00.000-05:00

My Auntie Katie came to see me this weekend. She's really fun and made me laugh a ton! I heard daddy talking with her about how she's a pilot like Uncle Dan. She made a special trip just to see me because she's going away for a full year like Uncle Chris and Cousin Andy. I don't know why my aunts and uncles keep going away on these long trips with Navy and Army (whoever they are), but I can't wait for them to tell me all about it when I'm older. Mommy and Daddy are really proud of them so I am too. My cousin Max and I are really lucky kids to have such a cool family.

Give Me Grace

2006-11-07T11:47:00.000-05:00

Now that I'm a whole 2 months old I've discovered that I LOVE reading. My Nonna gave me a book called "Give Me Grace" which I like a lot (and not just cause it focuses on my beautiful name).

Nonna also gave me a new friend, Bitty Baby. She's just my size, although she doesn't make any noise. I wonder if she's okay. I try to talk to her but she just stares back at me. Oh well, I guess I'll have to wait until she's ready to talk. I can tell we're going to be great friends for a long long time.

Go Big Blue

2006-10-30T19:23:00.000-05:00

All I have to say is...Wow. This weekend I went to what Daddy calls the Garden State for the first time and got to go to Papa's work. I'm very impressed with Papa that so many people go to visit him at his office. It's sad he has to work outside in the cold - I was very concerned about him. Let me tell you about my first visit to my grandparents house.

The weekend started out on a dark and rainy morning. Mommy strapped me into the car so I could watch the rain drops and lights go by really fast in the window, but that only lasted for a few minutes because I went to sleep. The next thing I know I was being kissed by these two kids that Mommy kept calling my cousins. One kiss wasn’t really a kiss, but it was more of a head-butt (thanks William). My cousins Anna Cate, William, and Jack Olohan and Auntie Anne and Uncle Ryan were all so happy to meet me. Jack is a week younger than me, but he’s a really big boy. They grow them big in the Garden State I guess.

We only stayed with the NJ Olohans for a little bit, because I knew Nonna and Papa were waiting for me at their house. So we left the Olohan’s and went to the Sweatman’s. Also visiting Nonna’s were my Auntie Lauren and Uncle Chris. It was really great meeting them and seeing my Grandparents again.

Later on that night we went to a big engagement party, but everyone seemed to be giving me all of the attention. So we decided to say our hellos, give our congrats and let Lauren and Gino have the spotlight back, after all it was their party.

The highlight of the weekend was my very first Giants game. It must be in my genes because I love football. Nonna gave me this really cool outfit and bundled me up tight, so I could brave the elements to cheer on the greatest team in the NFL! I might only be 7 weeks old, but in my humble opinion the NY Giants are clearly the best.

We met Nonna, Uncle Chris and Auntie Lauren at the game; we went into this big white bubble to meet a bunch of Nonna’s friends. Once again, it seems I instantly became the center of attention. I don’t understand, yes I am super cute, but we came to the game to cheer on the Giants not play with me. A bunch of very nice ladies passed me around and told me how beautiful I was. I like them very much and I think Mommy and Daddy were clearly enjoying the game while Nonna took care of me.

After the game we hit lots of traffic driving home to Washington but I was okay with it since I slept the entire drive. That car really knocks me out. It's better than Lunesta!

I should rest, I have a big day tomorrow with it being my first Halloween and all. I also turn 8 weeks this week - I'm a really big girl now.

A Night on the Town

2006-10-22T19:23:00.000-04:00

Last night Daddy and Mommy took me out on the town to meet Daddy's Naval Academy friends. I had sooo much fun! I got to see Bree, Speros, Chris and Hunter again, but I also got to meet Brian, Suzi and Leo. I really liked Daddy's friends and hope they liked me. I was on my best behavior and didn't cry once! I hope they noticed how hard I tried to be good so they'd ask me back out to dinner.

Missing You Grandmother Olohan

2006-10-17T19:51:00.000-04:00

I miss Grandmother Olohan. Mommy and Daddy are great, but she always seems to know exactly what I need. Two weeks just isn't enough of you. Grandmother Olohan thank you for helping Mommy and Daddy during your visit. Your quiet smile and warm eyes bring so much love into our lives.

Grandma, I wanted the thank you for the little prayer you wrote for my baptism.

I love you and Papa Bill so much already.

La Grâce

Hail, sweet baby, child of God,
Mary’s namesake too,
You grace our families, fill our souls
With love and pride anew.

Hail, little one, full of grace,
On your baptismal day
We vest in you our hopes and dreams
As you set out on your way.

We claim you, Grace, for Jesus Christ,
We mark you as His own.
We welcome you, we pray for you,
Dear child of Margaret and Tom.

Baptism Weekend #2

2006-10-07T17:28:00.000-04:00

GG and me.
Nonna, GG and me.
Happy Family.
Me and Nonna.

Baptism Weekend

2006-10-07T17:23:00.000-04:00

Father Harris, Mom and Dad, and my Proxy Fairy Parents
Grandmother Olohan
Me in my bonnet.
GG, Nonna, and Grandpa

I love being Catholic

2006-10-07T17:04:00.001-04:00

So this past weekend I was baptized and there were so many wonderful people who came to celebrate with me. I could start naming everyone from oldest to youngest, and even though I am pretty young, I’m not that naive. So in no particular order this is who came:

Great Grandma Zoffuto – aka GG
Grandma Sweatman – aka Nonna
Grandpa Sweatman – aka whatever the GM (Grace Mary) wants me to be
Grandmother Olohan – aka Grandmother Olohan
Mom and Dad of course
Auntie Nicole – aka Fairy Godmother
Cousin Phillip – aka Fairy Godfather
Darlene, Jessica, Kirsten, Jae, Kevin, Chris and Hunter, Skip and Sam, Todd, Lynn, and Holly

Thank you to everyone who came to celebrate with me. I also want to thank all of those who couldn’t make it, but were thinking about me. I am really looking forward to meeting my new Godparents Bill and Catherine Kelly.

Super Powers

2006-09-22T09:30:00.000-04:00

I think Mommy may have discovered my super powers….this is troubling as I was supposed to keep my identity a secret until the appropriate time and place when I could use them for good in the fight against the evils of this world.

I was meditating (Mom and Dad usually think I’m sleeping) working on honing my ESP and Mind Reading skills when I picked up that Mommy was going to leave me in my vibrating lazy boy and jump back in bed. I couldn’t let this happen. My powers develop best when I’m well fed and being held, so I started to cry. Of course my plan worked; one peep from me and I’m in someone’s arms in no time.

The down side to this is I heard Mommy talking to Daddy over an unsecured line. She said, “I think Grace knows when I want to sleep, because whenever she’s sleeping and I try to lay down she starts to make noise.”

I really need to play this down a bit…the two of them can totally blow my cover.

Later,
Grace (still working on my Alter Ego name)

More Pictures

2006-09-19T21:44:00.000-04:00

Chilling in my new lazyboy.
I love my Boppy...
Relaxing in a homemade blanket.

Bonus Pictures

2006-09-19T21:40:00.000-04:00

I had to post some additional pictures, not because I'm vain, but mainly because I'm so cute.

Mommy and Me.
Daddy making fun.
Auntie Maria.
Daddy and Me hard at work...

Lotsa Sleeps and a Bunch of Peeps

2006-09-16T13:36:00.000-04:00

I'm almost 2 weeks old and this weekend I gave up my title as the youngest cousin. I have two more cousin I get to meet, a first cousin (Jack) and a second cousin (James). This week has been so busy for me, it seems that all I want to do is eat, sleep and make Mommy and Daddy give me new diapers. I also had the privilege of meeting some new people. Early on I met Nicole and Darlene, they aren't actually my aunts, but they really want that title so I may humor them. They are really nice and I think there is a good chance they will take me shopping when I get older, so I have that going for me...

A couple of days ago I met one of my Grandmothers, Nonna. She seems to be one of my biggest fans. I think I'm going to like her, plus according to Mommy and Daddy she makes really good food, can't wait until I'm on solids. Then I met Auntie Maria, she really likes to talk, and sing. I'll have to admit I like her singing voice just a tad better than Daddy's, but Daddy I'm sure someone with a well trained ear would have a tough time picking the better singer.

I'm So Embarrassed

2006-09-12T08:23:00.000-04:00

Daddy showed me the picture that he posted for me on the blog (I would do it for myself, but my little fingers have trouble on the keyboard). I must say that picture does not do me justice. I was very tired, a little swollen and a very exposed when he snapped that photo. I had only been out of Mommy’s tummy for 10 minutes and Daddy was over me snapping away, seems a girl can’t even get herself composed after such a laborious task.

I think this picture does me a little more justice; granted I’m only a day old in this one and Daddy tells me I’m getting more and more beautiful each day. Everyone says I look like Daddy, which from what I understand makes one ridiculously cute looking baby, but I really hope as I get older I start to look like Mommy.

I will make Daddy put more pictures up soon. Love, Grace.

Introducing Grace Mary Sweatman

2006-09-11T08:19:00.000-04:00

I've arrived. After Mommy labored 29 hours she was able to facilitate my arrival into this wonderful world. On September 6th, 2006 at 0635 am I took my first breath of fresh hepa-filtered hospital air. I was 8 pounds and 20 1/2 inches.

Daddy's been keeping me up-to-date on fashion for the last nine months and told me bald is in so that's what I went with, nobody told me bald is in for men and not women, thanks Dad. Anyway, Mommy and I got through the delivery without a hitch. My head is really sore, but we did it.

Our hospital stay was going so good, but then I got yellow. So they took me away from Mommy and Daddy, blind-folded me and put me under these really bright lights. I hear the Army just made those practices illegal for prisoners, but somehow they thought it was appropriate to treat me like a terrorist even though I was only 2 days old. On Saturday Mommy and Daddy sprung me from the hospital and took me home and I must say it is everything I expected.

Today I am going in for my first check-up, I’m hoping for a clean bill of health.

I want to say thank you to everyone who prayed for me and Mommy this week. We have a long way to go, but I think some re-enforcements are coming to help Mommy and Daddy out.
Daddy, you should buy stock in baby wipes. If you keep using 30 wipes for each diaper, you will need to buy them by the case. Plus they're cold and they chaff my bum... I know Mommy and Daddy will love and take care of me. I am really looking forward to meeting all of my new friends and relatives.

Grace.

OK, so I'm late. What's the big deal?

2006-09-04T11:56:00.000-04:00

Hello, my name is Baby Sweatman and I'm late.

So, I’m hanging out at my usual digs and someone pokes me and says, “Baby why are you late?” I’ll tell you why I’m late; I’m not fully convinced that Mommy and Daddy are prepared to take care of Baby, that’s why.

Alright, it all went down like this. We had a doctor’s appointment on Friday and doctor says mom's not quite there yet, maybe tonight, maybe tomorrow, maybe next week who knows…So what’s the first thing that Mommy and Daddy start thinking about, let's leave town and party with Bree and Speros all weekend.

Hold the phone, I’m a baby that’s been growing in your belly for almost 10 months and I might come out at any minute! I don’t know about Mommy, but I’m getting ready to take on the most traumatizing and physically challenging thing of my life so far. I was planning on relaxing all weekend maybe sleeping in a few extra hours Sunday and Monday just to get ready for the big day. Not Momma, she wanted to jump in the car and drive 3 hours up to some place in Pennsylvania for a wedding.

Yes I did have fun, yes we did get back home safely, and yes Mommy is now crashed out catching up on her sleep, but that’s really not the point. The point is Mommy and Daddy are not taking me seriously, they think I’m just going to do whatever they want to do whenever they want to do it…all I have to say is heed these words I’m the real deal and I’m about to change the rules. Mommy, Daddy, I love you both, but please get ready for the big day. That means that you keep your cell phone on Daddy and you need to rest up Mommy. I promise you I will be there soon. No more parties until I say so, that’s the final word.

I know you are both anxiously anticipating my arrival and you are more than prepared to love and take care of me.

Any day, any moment...love, Baby

I'm very fashionable

2006-08-30T08:10:00.000-04:00

What was my due date again? I’m sorry Mommy, I can’t be on time if I don’t know what time I’m suppose to be there. I remember you telling me telling me September 2nd, and then I think you said August 30th, but after that I heard September 1st. This is all oh so very confusing.

Daddy was telling me one of his old football coaches always told him “If you’re early you’re on time, if you’re on time you’re late, and if you’re late you’re forgotten”…. Please don’t forget about me, it’s getting so tight in here and I really do want to come out.

I'm a fashionable girl, therefore I will be fashionably late, but I really don't know what that means so you'll just have to be patient with me and I will show up when I show up. The stork has a very flexible schedule.

No worries I will see you all very soon.

On Time...Or Fashionably Late...So Many Choices

2006-08-27T20:45:00.000-04:00

So there are only 5 more days left until I’m officially late. Mommy and Daddy have been telling me it’s not very polite to be late, but I’m sure I heard somewhere that you don’t want to be the first one to a party…so I’m very torn and confused. I really want to get outta here, because it’s really tight in here. I keep stubbing my toe on Mommy’s ribs and my little toesy are uber sore. On top of deciding whether to be early or fashionably late I want to make sure I have a good birth date. I was thinking about trying to pick the best date, but Grandmother Olohan says my birth date was decided a long long time ago and there is nothing I can do to change it. So I guess we’ll just have to be patient and I’ll come when I come. I’m really looking forward to seeing you.

P.S. Mommy, I promise I will try and make the whole labor thing quick…if you do your thing and I do my thing we’ll be just fine.

Love Baby.

37 Weeks Are Plenty....LET ME OUT!!

2006-08-07T14:28:00.000-04:00

It is getting tight in here….I know I should probably stay in here for a few more weeks, but I want out and I think Momma will agree. What happened to all of my space, did Mommy go on a diet and make her tummy smaller? Between being wrapped up like a pretzel and getting hiccups every day, I think I’ve had enough of my cocoon living. I’m ready for some of this fresh air and sunshine I’ve been hearing so much about.

Mommy and Daddy told me they are all ready for me. All of the baby supplies are in place, my bed and stroller are ready to go, and they even have a special seat in the car installed.

I’m not sure who is more nervous about the big day, Daddy or Mommy. Mommy keeps saying she’s really nervous about the delivery, but I can tell that Daddy is in denial. I’m pretty sure he is hoping that Mommy just goes to the hospital without him and calls him when she’s all done….. I know he really wants to help Mommy, but I’ve noticed he is basically useless when it comes to comforting her. I really don’t know why either one of them is concerned; I’m the one that is going to be doing all the work. I’ve been trying to rest up for the big day, but these hiccups won’t go away. Too bad Mommy isn’t a little bigger so I could stretch out, while I have some very nice knees I’m tired of staring at them all day long.

Only a few more weeks and I will be able to meet all of my loyal readers…pray for my safe arrival. Love Baby.

On the Road, Eating Cake

2006-07-10T17:08:00.000-04:00

Mommy and Daddy are wearing me out! Over the last twelve days we spent at least 30 hours in the car driving “Everywhere Man”, but we also indulged in 5 different cakes….

Our visit to Cape Cod was so much fun. We started the weekend off celebrating Auntie Lauren’s birthday and we ate Mommy and Daddy’s 1 year anniversary wedding cake. The next day Mommy was surprised with a Baby Shower that Auntie Lauren and Big Red threw for her. We got to visit with a bunch of aunts, uncles and so many of my cousins. At the end of the day we had a Baby Shower cake.

I think I really like this family, there is always so much food and it seems like there is a party every weekend, although I really hope Mommy takes a break for the next month or so. I’m getting too big to be bouncing around, sometimes when she moves to fast I give her a good kick and she stops in her tracks.

Not only did we go to Cape Cod, we went to Walpole, MA and Pittsburg, PA. In Walpole Uncle Danny took us to a Parade, quite frankly I’m glad we live in DC some of the people at the parade helped teach me a valuable lesson in dental hygiene. After the parade we de-thawed Mommy and Daddy’s wedding cake, so yummy.

We spent this past weekend visiting the Pittsburg Olohans and Grandmother Olohan, who happened to be visiting. My older cousin “Blue” Barry Olohan was baptized the night before we got there, Mommy tried some of his left over cake at dinner. They were a lot of fun and we ended the weekend with ice cream cake to celebrate Aunt Jane’s birthday.

I think I’m developing a sweet tooth and I’ve definitely decided that ice cream cake is my favorite, although the Krispy Cream blueberry donut holes Mommy had before we left Pittsburg were really good too.

Mommy please slow down, I need to rest…remember we won’t be getting much sleep in September. Luv, Baby.

Family and Floods

2006-06-27T12:57:00.000-04:00

This weekend I got to meet so many of my relatives on my Dad’s side. Great Grandma, Grandma, Grandpa, Great Uncles and Aunts, Second Uncles and Aunts, and some more Aunts… I think I got that right; I was just so excited all weekend to hear all of these new voices asking about me. Mommy was letting everyone poke at me so I had to kick back just to keep them away, but every time I did it seemed to just encourage them to poke me some more.

It was my second cousin’s (Uncle Charles) wedding. He looked very dapper and my new Aunt Andrea looked very beautiful as well. Big Red (A.K.A. Grandma Sweatman) seemed so happy all weekend being around all of her current and future daughter-in-laws, and of course me. She gives me a lot of attention so I can’t wait to visit her next weekend up at Cape Cod.

When Mom and Dad got home after the wedding they were greeted with an inch of water in the bedroom and bathroom. They were up all night long trying to get the water taken care of, but as soon as they mopped some up more came in. Poor Mommy was so tired after the weekend of excitement and then she had to stay up all night to fight the floods. The next day when she went to work, I was so busy kicking her all day so she could stay awake to bring home the bacon, but now I’m a little worn out as well (again, another reason to look forward to lounging around in Cape Cod).

Well that’s all little Miss Sweatman has to report today, only 10 weeks to go. Until next time, ta ta.

Mom and Dad are Yuppies?

2006-06-19T09:17:00.000-04:00

Nobody told me Mommy and Daddy were Yuppies…I think I may want to reconsider joining this family.

Mom and Dad had a party this weekend; they invited all of their friends and told them to put on their best yuppie getup. I was kidding before, I actually have no idea what a yuppie is. All I know is that Mommy kept saying this was her last chance to have a party before the little one takes over the condo. I think I’m the little one, but it could be the little Asian boy who lives down the street “Litelwon”. I’m not sure why he’d be taking over the condo though.

I can’t wait until I’m born. Mommy and Daddy like to have so much fun, they seem to always be having parties and everyone really likes to hang out with them.

I also got a new piece of furniture this weekend for my room, Mommy found this great changing table at the flea market. When Daddy brought it into the room, I heard Mommy say it’s a perfect fit. My Uncle Dan also sent me a mattress for the crib, be its not nearly a comfortable as laying on top of Mom’s bladder, but I bet it will be pretty close.

Mommy was worn out this week. I think I got a little bigger this week, but every time I get bigger Mommy seems get weaker. I’m so sorry Mommy, you’re just always eating such yummy food and I can’t resist gobbling up some for myself. I guess if you eat more we can split it up better. Maybe I will adjust myself so you can fill your tummy up more, although that may mean I will have to rearrange some of these other organs in here. I love you both…see you soon only around 12 weeks to go. Baby.

My Weekend at the Beach

2006-06-06T15:24:00.000-04:00

This past weekend was my first trip to the beach. Mom and Dad took me to the Outer Banks in North Carolina. They’ve been wondering why I was kicking so much this weekend….well duh I love the beach. They spent time walking on the beach and laying out in the sun, which makes it hot and super bright in here. Mom didn’t go swimming in the ocean, I think the water was too cold, but she did treat me to a swim in the pool. It sort of took me by surprise when she start to swim, I lost track of which way was up and which way was down. I spent all weekend trying to show Mom I can swim too, but it’s a little tight in here when I try the breast stroke.

This weekend I also found a neat little pink button. So I pushed it. Next thing I know I hear Mom complaining about her belly button popping out, I hope she doesn’t figure out I was the one to push it. Only 3 more months to do and then I can blow this popsicle-stand and really stretch out.

Oh yeah one other thing. After spending 10 hours in the car this weekend Mom and Dad finally figure out I am a Johnny Cash fan. I would pop Mom in the Gallbladder every time he came on, “My name is Sue. How do you do? Now you gonna die!”…. Such a classic…

Mommy's First Mother's Day

2006-05-17T14:06:00.000-04:00

Mommy and Daddy had an exciting weekend for Mom’s first official Mother’s Day. They went to visit my Aunt Catherine and Uncle Bill in Seattle, Washington. My cousins Liam, Kate, Bridget, Deidre, and Maeve seem to be really fun; I could constantly hear them talking, playing, running around, and laughing all day long. Deidre and Maeve are only 3 months old, so I think Mommy and Daddy were playing with them a bunch so they would be ready for me in August. I heard Mommy tell Daddy that he needed to practice changing diapers so he can help her out when I arrive. I don’t think she knows, but Daddy was whispering to me the other night that I have to promise to only do poops when its Mommy’s turn to change diapers. I hope Mommy changes most of my diapers; Daddy didn’t really seem to know what he was doing.

Mommy got a great hair cut this weekend. Daddy thinks she looks like a movie star.

Mommy got a card from Daddy and me on Mother’s day. I tried to talk Daddy into buying her something sparkly, but he said he was saving up for diapers which I couldn’t argue with. Mommy and Daddy also decided on a name for me this week, but Daddy made me promise to keep it a secret until I am born; he said Mommy would kill him if he let it get out.

Dad took this picture; it’s a picture of Me, Mommy, and Cousin Maeve.

Only 15 weeks or so until I’m breathing fresh air….

Love Baby.

Silky Gown

2006-05-02T08:05:00.000-04:00

This weekend Mommy and Daddy painted the nursery. Two things clued me into the whole painting project. The first clue wasn’t really a clue, I overheard Mommy and Daddy talking about what color of paint they were going to use for the nursery. I think they decided on something called “silky gown”, I really hope it looks better than it sounds. It sort of sounds like nail polish, ya know like “ballerina slippers”….oh that’s right Daddy, I know what “ballerina slipper” nail polish is, so stand by….The second clue that tipped me off was that I got really light headed and my eyes were more watery than usual, I think Mommy may have sucked in too many paint fumes. She was also really active, squatting down, stepping up, oh and my favorite was when she moves things because she tightens up her belly and it’s like a big hug….I think I overheard them when they were done saying that the room seemed to be about the same color as when they started. It seems like they did an awful lot just to make the room the same color, oh well. I did over hear something else that seemed to be rather confusing. Mommy and Daddy said they were painting my nursery then they said something about moving the bed around and sleeping in the room. They must of moved their bed into my room so they can keep me company…I love my parents they are so thoughtful, but they really should have asked me if I wanted to share a room with them. Well until Mommy or Daddy do something else worth sharing, so long….. Baby Sweatman

My First Easter

2006-04-17T07:47:00.000-04:00

I'm soooo excited to have experienced Easter for the first time. This weekend was full of new things for me. It all started off with Mommy going to the doctor's for a routine checkup. He says I'm doing great and growing, but Daddy’s been telling everyone that I’ve been growing so there wasn’t’ any real big news. This week, I must have really gotten big because it feels more cramped in here. I think Mommy expanded a little, giving me some more room, but she's going to have to get a lot bigger for me in the next month or so.

Mommy and Daddy were really active this weekend. They took me over to a neighborhood with a bunch of different real big houses with flowers and found a nice patch of grass to relax in, then they found a nice little French place and we got Crepes. Later on, they took me someplace to meet my Grandma and Grandpa Sweatman. Of course I didn't get to see them, but they sounded really excited to see Mommy's tummy. I also overheard that there were some presents for me; Mommy seemed really excited and said I will look so cute wearing them, I can't wait.

With all of the excitement of the day, I got "jitter legs". I think Mommy was a little startled, because I heard her yelling at Daddy to put his hand on her belly. So then, Mommy and Daddy proceeded to poke me for the next 20 minutes or so. I had to keep kicking them to let them know I didn't like getting poked, but they just kept poking. Sometimes I just don't understand them, its like their amateurs or something. All I wanted to do was get to sleep so the Easter Bunny could bring us our basket.

Mommy and Daddy had to wake up early so they could go to Easter Mass before Brunch with Mom's friends. I decided to sleep in, while Mom and Dad went to church, but on the way to church Mommy started poking me again. I heard Daddy tell her to leave me alone, but she really wanted to feel me again. I rolled over to try and sleep some more, she must of felt that because she stopped poking me for a bit. Anyway, Mommy and Daddy went to brunch a little bit later and Mommy must have ordered a lot of food, because things got a little bit tight for awhile. Then they went for a long walk, it felt like hours, but I don’t really have a very good sense of time so I’m not sure how long it took. They did take me to the White House and we saw the front lawn all set up for the Easter Egg roll, I’m hoping to be a participant in the next few years. They also watched some guy twirling a flag while they sat on a bench. But the best part of the walk was when Mom asked Dad if she could go see some guy named Larry. I’ve heard Mom mention his name a few times, and whenever she does it usually gets really cold in here, but it tastes really sweet and yummy. Anyway, I heard Mom ask Dad if she could have a sundae, then it got cold and yummy again.

I suppose those were the weekend highlights. This poking thing is getting a little bit out of hand. I’m going to have to figure out a way to get them to knock it off. I’ll figure it out after awhile, sometime I don’t think they’re that bright.

Talk to ya later….Baby S.

Happy Half Zero Birthday to Myself

2006-04-11T14:09:00.000-04:00

Today I am halfway ready to enter into the outside world. Don't get me wrong, Mom, I love it in here, I’m warm and cozy, there’s plenty of room, you keep me well fed, but sometimes it’s a little bit loud, especially when you eat those Patio Burritos. I’m so excited I could kick; maybe you’ll feel it in the next few days. I hear we are heading to the doctor’s for a check up later this week. I can’t wait for him to tell you how much I’ve grown, but Mom’s belly may speak for itself.

I’ve been listening to Mom and Dad talk about what they want to call me. I know Mom has been very explicit on what not to call me based on some of Dad’s suggestions and her response. I hope they pick a name that encompasses my classic look and happy demeanor. Don’t worry about picking a name that only pretty girls can pull off, I promise you I will be stunningly beautiful. Apparently, from what I can tell, I got a bunch of Mom’s genes. I am soooo lucky, it was a crap shoot, but I think I ended up on the right side of the gene pool.

Happy halfway to my birthday. Love, me.

My thoughts are finally heard.

2006-04-05T10:15:00.000-04:00

This is my first post on my new blog. Let me introduce myself, I am Baby Sweatman. I’m around 19 weeks old; I don’t want to get too specific because I always hear Mom and Dad saying different ages so I don’t want to spark a debate. When I say I’m 19 weeks I should probably clarify that I’m not actually born yet, I’ve been growing in my Mom’s tummy for 19 weeks. Some may say that I am negative 21 weeks old. In the spirit of full disclosure I should probably let you know that I'm not really typing these words; I was finally able to get through to my father. I have been talking to him for quite some time now, but he just hasn't been listening. Apparently from what I've been overhearing from my mother I'm not the only one he ignores. I figured the best way for me to share my thoughts would be to start a blog that everyone can read. I will let Dad know what I am thinking from time to time and if he can find the time in his busy day he will share these thoughts with everyone in cyberspace.

I would like everyone to know, especially Mommy, that I am growing this week. Well, I am always growing, but this week I am going through a growth spurt. That being said, Momma isn’t going to be feeling too good. Her tummy will feel like it’s full with gas, but its not, it full of me…I’m sorry Momma. I also wanted to tell Mommy that I really like it when she takes her vitamins; I know sometimes you forget, but they make me feel so strong and smart. Mommy, I will try to kick you every once in awhile to let you know that I am still here, but it might be a little while before you can really feel me. My legs aren’t that strong yet, but I will try to get stronger, especially since I know you can’t wait until I can kick the soccer ball.

I will share more later, I hope everyone is enjoying the spring, I can’t wait to experience it. Mommy tells me that I will be here in time for Fall.

Love, Baby.