Robinsonwatch

A quick Christmas re-cap

2012-01-22T11:44:00.000-08:00

I know it was about a month ago but we had a really terrific Christmas with family and friends and wanted to share a few highlights!
A get together with Gabes best friends from high school! It was our first time meeting baby Sofia and Wes and Jocq are expecting their first this summer. Fun times!

Cousins on Christmas morning

Coolest Uncle and Daddy ever!

After a whirlwind of opening presents and a big ole' breakfast we went down to see my side of the family. I really didn't take many pictures at all but I LOVE this one. Finnegan, my step father, and sister cracking up at something. Pure joy!

Katie (and pea pod due June 6th) and Aaron. Cheesy I know taking a pic of them holding a pic of themselves but I really like it anyway.

Robinson family

Robinson family take two (I had to do my hair for this one;)

Finn playing in a box!

And what was in that box-her most favorite gift- a kitchen!

One of the best things this holiday season (besides getting to see family) is some of our best friends drove in from NY to surprise Gabe. It was so much fun and Gabe had NO idea. Gabe works at the park most days and so I had our friends meet us there. As we were picking Gabe up and looking at the ducks our friend David goes "Man those ducks are loud"- of course Gabe looks over and goes crazy.
Here is Natilija and Finn at the farm on the Biltmore property.
I didn't take any pictures of all of us...but here is a pic of their beautiful family in front of the estate. We felt so loved that they made the trek all the way to spend 2 days with us.

New Years Eve the Marshalls left and Gabe's folks came to ring in the new year. I am so glad they were here bc I fell asleep by 8! They had fun playing games and watching movies. We spent the next day at the park.

Happy Birthday Daddy!!!

2012-01-14T04:25:00.000-08:00

You're the best daddy in the world and I am the luckiest girl in the world! Hope you have a great birthday- I won't whine today and I'll take an extra long nap.
Your girl,
Finn Marie

Momma say's last years photo was much easier to capture!

Rare post from Gabe

2012-01-01T12:24:00.000-08:00

I wanted to share a couple of things that happened to me recently. I don't normally blog unless something awesome has happened. As you'll see, two awesome things happened. One, I flew.

Two, I got a new haircut.

O' Christmas Tree

2011-12-13T12:00:00.001-08:00

There were a few things on my "wish list" of things to do once we moved to Asheville...apple picking was the first one and cutting down our own Christmas tree was the second one. I am sure that list will grow as i discover all there is to do here but those were special to me.

Last Thursday we packed up the ole' mini van and drove about 40 minutes to a Christmas tree farm. It was such a fun morning. We spent about 30 minutes walking around tree's that were not for sale...thinking they were but just not priced as we were told they should be. oop's- our life story. And then we trekked up a bit farther and saw price tags...voila! There weren't many left but we found the most perfect tree for our space. Then- be prepared this is cheating- we just stood there and waited by our tree and they cut it down for us. Let's be honest, my wish wasn't actually to cut it down- I just wanted it to be on the farm still in dirt:) So...wish was granted. We then spent some time eating Christmas cookies and drinking cider. It was just as I imagined! We'll be doing this again next year. Just a few years ago we were carrying our tree home on the subway!

Finn hugs and kisses the tree! She is such a little honey.

Gabe hugs and kisses Finn! He is such a big honey;)

The finished product!

Thanksgiving, etc....

2011-12-06T15:53:00.000-08:00

We spent the holidays in Charlotte...so nice only being 2 hours away from family. Finn already recognizes and knows the grandparents and aunt's there. (that makes GAbe and I smile when we doubt the move).

Right before Thanksgiving some of our best friends from Brooklyn spent a few nights with us. They have a 4 month old daughter and we loved getting lots of cuddles in and Finn loved reading with her auntie and uncle!

On a more serious note- Gabe's beer was finally finished and ready for a taste test! He said the hops were great and blabbibty blah (said with love), and most importantly tasted great! (ps if you look closely you can see Gabe's friend washing our floor- talk about going above and beyond, thank you Steven for all of your help!!!)

Finn and I stayed a few extra days and spent the day at a childrens museum. It was perfect for Finn's age and she LOVED it. So did Grammy and I, although I think it was totally hitting me that my baby girl is not really a baby anymore. sigh.
(water table fun)

Biltmore Estate

2011-11-19T10:28:00.000-08:00

The other day we went to the Biltmore to walk around the gardens and visit the farm on the property. We bought season passes before we moved and this was our second visit (1st visit we toured the home). It's so nice to just be able to go for an hour or two with Finn and take it all in. The grounds are enormous and they have lots to offer.

All Finnegan really wants to do is run around though...so we let her.

We checked out the Conservatory- she was kind of mad at me for putting her in her stroller;)

The big hit of the day was the farm- we had it just about to ourselves and the lady who worked there was amazing telling us all about the animals and even bringing out a 6 day old goat!!!

Oops!

2011-11-14T16:52:00.000-08:00

On Saturday Finn and I spent the day with a good friend from college and her daughter. We had such a nice time catching up and watching our two girls play. They are 3 weeks apart and had so much fun at the park....

Unfortunately, they had a little accident but no worries, no tears were shed and all was okay!

My wild women going down the slide!

And my friend was able to slow the video down and capture the pic of Finn mid-way...

I've warned her she needs to stop sucking in that bottom lip or else it'll stick.

Nothing much to report

2011-11-07T16:37:00.000-08:00

We've been busy with lots of visitors over the last week and it's been fun showing them a little bit of our town and hitting up a few local restaurants which has been a treat for us. Finn has also been teaching everyone all her new tricks.

Finn now understands how to joke around and will do funny things to get us to laugh. She just dropped her morning nap so around 10ish everyday we have to get out of the house or else she gets super fussy...today we just walked the trail behind our apartment, yesterday we went on a mini hike and let her run around the playground and shoot hoops with daddio, the day before we went to a shoe outlet and j crew outlet (can't wait to take Johanna to both!!)...You get the idea, nothing overly exciting just living life!

Here are a few pics of our silly girl...

Best Friends!

Finnegan being silly and trying to make us laugh!

My pretty babe!

We drove along the Blue Ridge Parkway the other day and it was pretty gorgeous. i absolutely love the fall.
We started with a little picnic...

A little rolling...

Pretty scenery...

Goodbye Rat Tail!

2011-11-01T16:05:00.000-07:00

I have finally won the battle. Gabe allowed me to finally cut Finn Marie's rat tail (side mullet) and I have to be honest it looks super cute. My girl is growing up...first haircut and she was great- all she needed was a lollipop and her Aunt Katie to keep her still.

Before:

After:

Bubbles!

2011-11-01T05:41:00.000-07:00

I may be the worst mom

2011-10-31T19:02:00.001-07:00

Because I totally made my child go to every door to get Gabe and me candy. Did I totally use her cuteness to score candy bars??

We went to some friends for a potluck and then trick or treated in a neighborhood close by. We had such a fun time and Finn loves being with other children. So thankful for the Breedloves (Gabe's college roommate and his family). They have really helped this transition for us and we truly appreciate them sharing their friends, food, and lives with us!

Happy Halloween!

2011-10-31T11:19:00.000-07:00

More pics to come after we go trick or treating tonight.
But here are a few pics of my crazy girl.

Trying to get into her wagon herself...she didn't even fuss...ouch!

Just in case you were wondering

2011-10-27T16:18:00.001-07:00

What we do all day everyday with our little one here is a little glimpse:
Saying she loves books is an understatement, not really sure why we even have toys.

Apple's ya'll

2011-10-27T16:04:00.000-07:00

The family went apple picking a few weeks ago. It was a gorgeous day here in the mountains and we live in the perfect place to find great orchards. It was crazy busy on this particular Saturday and unfortunately bc of that we opted out of the hot apple cider donuts which in all honesty was why we chose this particular orchard. We were both bummed about the 30 minute line but I think in the end it was smart (this suburban mom is trying not to gain the freshman 15 back, it's kind of hard bc all I want to do all day is bake and then eat what I've made;).

Here are a few pics of the day. We didn't get a pic of this but I thought you would appreciate knowing that within the first 3 minutes of strolling the orchard I fell. On my face. It hurt. I tripped on an apple bc I am cool like that. Gabe wouldn't let me hold the baby for the rest of the day.

Our day adventure ended with a little picnic...Finnegan is getting so big and ate her pb and j with her daddio.

Let's hit rewind

2011-10-13T16:00:00.001-07:00

Life has been super busy at times and then extremely slow at times....during those slow times I sometimes struggle to get motivated (call it a bit of sadness due to the transition period)so let me share some old pics from a few weeks ago.

We headed to Hilton Head Island a few weekends ago bc my folks offered their Disney time share to us and HH is one of my all time favorite vacation spots. It's truly one of the most relaxing places in the world. Katie and her boyfriend joined us so it was a fun little family get-away and Finn Marie's first visit to the ocean.

This little girl had no fear and loved being in the water. Also all she wants to do all day long is walk...

This girl has an attitude like her father (you guys know it's true!) and a love for desserts like her momma (waiting for ice cream!)
Happy

The next weekend I snuck away with my college roomates and headed to our old stomping ground (UNCG!). We had such a perfect low key weekend together. We left our babes at home and ate and talked, and ate some until our hearts were content (and I felt sick! jk, sort of)
We went to one of our fav places for lunch bc of we wanted their giant cookie dessert- only to find it missing from the menu. We smiled really big and the waiter made it happen! Giddiup my friends I NEVER pass on a chocolate chip cookie.never

Finn gave me the ole'stink face when I got home;)

Apple picking post to come...soon...promise.

We've been up to lots

2011-09-30T06:55:00.001-07:00

But don't seem overly motivated to sit and blog about it.
Here is a little snap shot of our life here in the mountains....

Mountain State Fair!

A little birthday party with Finn Marie's new friends!
Those Breedlove boy's are going to have to fight over this girl:)

Fall Family Festival at a local school!

Finn learns about clogging, corn hole, and hay rides.

Feeding the ducks and playing on the playground.

Happy Birthday!

2011-09-18T16:23:00.001-07:00

Our perfect little addition to the Robinson clan turned a year today!
She has been such a joy to raise and to watch as she's grown and learned. I have lots of pictures from her party but will post just a few here. We have so many updates as well but will hopefully get to them sometime soon.

Happy birthday to my girl, a true gift to our family!

GOODBYE BROOKLYN...WE LOVE YOU

2011-09-04T12:31:00.000-07:00

Gabe wrote that title and nothing else, I thought I better expound on that thought.

After 5 1/2 years we have decided to pack up and leave the city for greener pastures (literally greener- not better:) and move to Asheville, NC. We will now be 2 hours away from family and living a simpler life in the mountains.

This all came about with the decision that I wanted to stay at home with Finn full time. It was beyond hard for me to go back to work in March and leave my girl every day, all day! Gabe had quit Harper Collins in order to be a full time daddio and try his hand at free-lance editing. He was and is AMAZING at both...and succeeded in both ventures. If it wasn't for him I could have never left for work on a daily basis. But work was long and hard...

I always gave my 100% at work and really felt that once I couldn't do that anymore I probably shouldn't be there. Two weeks after returning from maternity leave I was promoted to an HR manager and given some of my own client groups...this was a dream job for me. It took lots out of me and I was running out the door on time in order to see Finn for an hour before she went down for the night. I left my team working every day and that started wearing on me, I also only got to see Finn for an hour in the evening and that started wearing on me. Thus the decision to leave before it affected my work/reputation at L'Oreal and before I missed too much of my girl's first year of life.

This decision was HARD...VERY HARD. Leaving my career was one thing, but knowing that leaving would most likely mean leaving NY too was emotional. We could have done NY for life...but financially it didn't make sense. Thankfully Gabe's freelancing has gone fantastic (and he is amazing at it and loves it) so we thought let's move somewhere afforadable and see what happens. Perhaps I can stay at home and Gabe can freelance? Time will tell bc we just took the leap!

We are here in Asheville now...settling into our 2 bed/2bath apartment for half the price. For us the savings is great, but we better meet some amazing people bc those we left behind grew to be family and a good savings won't be enough for us:)

And so the next chapter begins. Here are some pictures of our Brooklyn Bridge going away party! It was truly a perfect night with friends. Don't thinnk captions are needed for these....

Breakfast date with the Corders

2011-08-14T17:44:00.000-07:00

My college roommate was in town last weekend with her family and we were able to get together for dinner and breakfast. It was so fun to get our girls together...

Kate is 14 months old, Finn almost 11 months old (sigh!).
Kate is walking and has this super bubbly personality where Finn is crawling like a little speed racer (walking along all the furniture)and is much more serious. The only thing missing here is our girl Emily (and her family)!

We picked up some bagels and coffee and headed to the park...such NY'ers.

Here are a few pics of the two of them.

This is the only time I wished Finn walked bc her legs and hands were black with dirt. She had fun though!! This pic captures their personalities.

0 teeth to 3 teeth in one week!

2011-08-08T17:20:00.000-07:00

Couldn't get a great pic of her little teeth but Gabe got her to giggle as I snapped away. She literally woke up one morning with three teeth, hasn't seemed to make her cranky or miserable (thankfully!).
(if you click on the pic it'll get larger)

Just a few fun things....

2011-08-03T18:18:00.001-07:00

Finn had some friends over the other day for breakfast...and Gabe and I got to hang with their folks a little too:)
Kisses!

"Hey, where are you going?"

Finn got a kick out of Barrett.

A secret from Anaiah....I think Finn Marie is eying her pancake.

Swimming at Uncle Andy's hotel pool. This girl loves the water!!

Lastly our girl modeling a gift from Gabe's old co-worker.

We just had a great weekend with Seth who was in from Chicago this past weekend. I can't believe I didn't get ANY photo's with Finn and her Uncle! She sure loved chilling with him and watching 10 hours of MacGyver with her daddy and him.

Bronx Zoo with the family

2011-07-28T17:00:00.001-07:00

She was in awe of this monkey and had a full on conversation with him.

Pics of a recent outing

2011-07-19T16:46:00.001-07:00

My blog used to have more words, then I had an insanely cute baby that I couldn't get enough of so I started taking non-stop pictures. (okay for those who are thinking, your blog used to JUST be pics of your dog you must not forget once in a while I typed words re: the happenings around these parts). But now when I sit down at the computer words fail me.....

Gabe, Finn Marie and I went into the city the other day for some delicious burgers and milk shakes at the shack shake in Madison Square Park. Here are a few pics of what the afternoon looked like!

My husband happens to be the best editor, ever!

2011-07-05T05:55:00.000-07:00

Here's a link to a recent interview he did.

Reunion

2011-07-03T17:51:00.000-07:00

Last Sunday we got together with our birthing class. The kids are pretty darn cute. Finn was the mover and shaker of the group and basically crawled away to stare at a dog every 10 minutes. I love how independent she is! She isn't really into the group photo's so here are her snotty looks "mom, really, you want me to hang with these BABIES"?

This is her best "peace kids, I'm out!" look.

Random photo's of my girl

2011-06-23T17:04:00.001-07:00

**keep on going down to see an obnoxiously long post with many pics

I am in trouble...

2011-06-23T16:11:00.001-07:00

I have gotten yelled at by every family member and my bestie...so without further ado, a post that ended up being a bit longer than expected.

We were in NC for my little sisters graduation and we had all 5 siblings together. We have not all been together, in one place, for 4 years! It was a great time to just catch up and introduce the newest family members.

We flew in a night early in order to see the Robinson grandparents- it was too short but we were thankful to be able to spend some good down time with them before the craziness began. Finn has been a bit funny with separation anxiety but she didn't fuss at all with grammy and pappa! She's in love!

Finn in grammy's garden

See that cutie with the popped collar? That is Gabe, we were trying to get a good pic of Finn next to this pic bc we think she really looks like him (minus the blond hair and blue eye's) She made this silly face and we couldn't' stop laughing!

Who is this cutie you ask? It's the newest member of the Miano clan- Hannah Bea!! Words can't describe....she had me at hello!! Matt, Carrie and Hannah surprised us by flying in from CO for Alli's graduation. So fun.

Matt and his daughter

Andrew loving on his neices, not the best pic of him but he loves getting his cuddles from these girls.

Aunt Katie with her Finn Marie (Kat's the baby whisper'er)

Is this the best or what? Oliver loves his cousins and he is such a big helper. He sat through graduation without a peep! Such a great kid.

The actual graduation! Didn't take a great pic- but you get the idea. We are all so proud of Alli who will attend Queens College in the fall!

The whole clan minus the little girls. Grammy watched the babes!

We spent all day Saturday on the boat. A great way to celebrate Alli's achievement!

Gabe and Oliver chilling!

I just downloaded these professional photos from facebook...hope it works!

Time to lower the crib!

2011-05-30T18:38:00.000-07:00

I'll let the video speak for itself. We had to break into two parts bc it was too long.

My girl and her dog

2011-05-28T03:56:00.000-07:00

Finnegan loves Dakota!
Sorry for the weird angle of this video, Finn is sitting on my stomach watching me play with D. It sure gets her going!

Birthday party!

2011-05-28T03:40:00.000-07:00

Finnegan's friend, Henry, turned three years old a few weeks ago. She was very excited to help him celebrate. She got in her best cowgirl apparel but unfortunately it was really to cold to sport the whole outfit. The party was in prospect park and fun was had by all (except for Gabe who couldn't come).

All the kiddos' singing to the cowboy in the middle:)

This is my daughter-

2011-05-20T17:37:00.000-07:00

Standing:

Falling:

Mother's Day!

2011-05-18T18:05:00.000-07:00

We had a fantastic mothers day!
We had a picnic in the park and I got to do all the things I love to do with my girl. Ever since being back at work I get very little time during the week with her and so it was truly a perfect day!

Pooped out!

Sorta' crawling

2011-05-08T13:07:00.001-07:00

Our girl is moving and shaking!
Sometimes it's just 10 rolls to get to a toy she wants or other times it is an arms in front of her schooch, other times she is on her hands and knee's rocking back and forth-flop forward- do it all over again until she has moved across the room.
Here are a few pics of her in action- I love her different stages in this whole new territory! She is quite pleased with herself:)

Swim Lessons

2011-05-08T12:40:00.001-07:00

Finnegan started swim lessons at the YMCA yesterday. She didn't love it at first but soon relaxed enough to allow herself to enjoy it. She was pretty stiff which made me laugh bc it was hard to get her to kick and splash! She went under a few times and was a bit shocked but all in all he 1st lesson was a success.

**We found out 10 minutes before the lesson that swim caps were mandatory- they had a few really pretty one's for us (found them after Gabe ran to the drug store to purchase some)

Happy Easter!

2011-04-24T11:35:00.001-07:00

Baby Dedication

2011-04-17T16:57:00.000-07:00

Today at church there was a baby dedication. Finnegan was a part of it, and it was so special to publicly dedicate her to God. It's also such a special time for the community as they commit to pray for our little ones. We feel very loved by our church family and are so thankful for our friends who pray for our sweet girl and Gabe and me as we strive to raise her in His love.

We each get the opportunity to say something to our babe and this is what we said:
"Finnegan Marie you are truly a gift from God and we love you more than you'll ever know and your Heavenly Father loves you more than you'll ever understand. Our prayer is that you follow Him and as you grow in your love for Him you'll grow in your love for others"

Here are a few pics of our little love
This when we were speaking to her:

The whole group

Special play time with Uncle Andy

Picture Overload

2011-04-03T06:06:00.001-07:00

Yesterday we spent the afternoon at the Brooklyn bridge Park and walked across the bridge. It was a beautiful day and it was great to be with family.

Sweet Potatoes

2011-03-26T11:48:00.000-07:00

We gave Finn her first solid food this morning, sweet potatoes mixed with Greek yogurt. She did a pretty good job, but the face she gave when she was finished made it pretty clear that she wasn't going to take anymore. Tomorrow, we try avocado.

Happy 6 month birthday baby!

2011-03-18T17:26:00.000-07:00

Finn Marie,
You're the best thing that has ever happened to your mommy and daddy!!
XO

Finnegan is half a year old today- I know you want your kids to grow up nice and healthy and strong but I wish we could just savor this baby time a bit longer.

Finn and a friend

2011-03-13T17:20:00.000-07:00

Finn got quite a kick out of torturing her friend Emily when Emily and her mom, Kelli, visited a couple of weeks ago.

Friend time!

2011-03-03T05:45:00.000-08:00

Remember these three? The cutest babies- EVER?

On Friday Finnegan and I loaded up and headed to DC on the Amtrack. We almost missed the train, very funny running through Penn Station with Gabe holding a car seat and bag and me with the babe.

We had such a fantastic time at the Carters! Emily (6 months today!!) and Finnegan played all weekend together- Cate joined them Friday afternoon but she was out of town for the rest of the trip. On Monday Kelli and I and our daughters (man, still can't believe we are both mommas to little girls) packed her car and we headed back to NYC so that Finnegan could share her toys. It was such a fun time. Sure wish we lived closer.

Here are more pictures than you could dream of....this is three months after the first photo.

Cate- 8.5 months old

Emily 6 months

Finnegan - 5 months 1 week

Finn decides to eat Emmy's arm

Couldn't resist the tutu's!

We spent a bit of time at Ikea, the girls were tired so we let them rest on this bed while we finished our shopping. In this picture they are discussing how crazy their mom's are!

these are friends of the Carters who came to make us lunch! Finn was totally flirting here.

For more pics check out Kelli's blog
http://jkandscout.blogspot.com/

Uncle Brandon and Aunt Lydia visit!

2011-02-24T14:43:00.001-08:00

Gabe's best friend from high school and his wife Lydia had a layover in NY (2 days!) on their journey from Spain to NC. We were so lucky to get to spend time with them and show off our little babe. Finnegan fell in love after about 15 minutes and I think when she woke up from her nap today she was sad because they were gone.
So wish we could head to Barcelona to see their beautiful city! We enjoyed showing them a bit of ours.

Gabe reading Finn Marie her new spanish book

Can you guess where we are?

Our very own (Scottish) Knuffle Bunny

2011-02-15T16:50:00.000-08:00

Our good friends Kenny and Jude from Scotland sent Finn a little package last week, and as you can see, the bunny is quite a hit.

Just a few shots of our girl

2011-02-12T10:28:00.000-08:00

Finnegan is so much fun these days- laughing and talking to us constantly. She loves her pup too! They both interact in a way only babies and dogs can do. Almost five months old our little love.......ahh how time flies.

Birthing class reunion! Finnegan wasn't having a great time here but she was a very good girl the whole time. She didn't freak out while on the couch but she was def trying to tell us that it wasn't her idea of fun.

This is more like her idea of fun.

Brooklyn representin'!

Finn Marie with her buddies.

My cousin is an artist!

2011-02-02T18:17:00.000-08:00

This is Finn here...I am so proud of my cousin Kate!
She had her art work published in a children's magazine.
Love you Kate!

Snow day!

2011-01-28T10:42:00.000-08:00

So the snow didn't really change our plans of staying in doors and keeping warm but it sure gave us something pretty to look at. Unfortunately Gabe had to trek into the city for work so Finn and I had a cuddle fest! It must have been just what the doctor ordered bc last night she slept from 7pm-5am (not bragging just hoping that this is a new trend!)
Dakota loved the snow!

Someone woke up happy! She was cracking me up how she was in the corner and had both hands on the crib slates.

Play time!

So cute....

2011-01-24T11:26:00.000-08:00

Yet such a stinker these days. My sweet girl who started sleeping through the night at 5 weeks doesn't want to sleep anymore-at all-. I'm tired but we still get rewarded with this girls beautiful smile and giggle!
4 months old weighing in at 11 pounds 14 ounces

Best buds

Play time!

'Sup?

Go TAR HEELS!!!

Happy Birthday Daddy!

2011-01-14T09:11:00.000-08:00

Love your daughter,
Finnegan Marie

Christmas trip to NC

2011-01-14T04:53:00.000-08:00

We had a great time in NC! Finnegan was able to meet family and friends and it just felt good being there. She didn't sleep as well and so it took a bit of a toll on her sunny disposition and well, I was pretty exhausted the whole time. The first week were at Gabe's parents' home with his brother and family. Then Gabe left and I moved down the street to my folks' home.

Pictures!
Quinn reading to Finnegan

Finnegan's favorite time of day! Kate would just walk around with her and bounce her, she would be crying in someone elses arms and then Kate would take her and she would settle right away! Sure wish we lived closer to cousins.

Finnegan has the cutest cousins EVER!

Sue and Dave with all of their grandchildren

Everyone together!

Yes- Dakota came with us! Look at all the fun she was having (she did have an allergic reaction to something so she did have to make a quick trip to the vet)

Christmas at my folks

Finn with her great grandmother

Finn got to meet lots of friends too- I didn't get a picture of all of our outings but she loved meeting everyone!!
Finn with Tara Willis and her son Marc (she mentored me all throughout high school)

Finn with my friend April and her daughter Paisley

The Hamiltons!

Finn Marie's favorite restaurant in the South.

Laughing in the New Year!

2011-01-02T04:15:00.000-08:00

Finnegan had a great first Christmas...loved on by all her family.
She has been a bit out of sorts with all the new people and traveling but that hasn't kept her from smilling and giggling up a storm.

We'll have tons of pictures and stories to share once we get back home. Gabe is already in Brooklyn but Finn and I are living it up in Charlotte until Friday!

You can never say "I Love You" too much...

2010-12-20T19:19:00.000-08:00

And apparently the same holds true for Finn's hearing it.

So much loving!

2010-12-18T14:25:00.000-08:00

This past week was a busy week for my little three month old! Last Friday my brother and his family arrived, Saturday my dad and step mom arrived. Finn just keeps meeting family that love on her~ she is getting lots of cuddles and gives her smiles freely!

A little snap shot of our week!
Uncle Andy and Aunt Jenn meet our girl

Nonni and Poppi arrive from CO to meet their first granddaughter.

A big girl dinner~ she was amazing the WHOLE time.

I had an annual biz review at work so the grandparents watched Finnegan. She had a great time playing and word has it they even fed her FAT WITCH BROWINES! A little bonus- Sarah Jessica Parker came to my work function...she was announcing a winner of an award- crazy huh?

This is how I found them when I got home...

Dad and Oliver went ice skating in Bryant Park...Finn and I Weren't there but enjoyed the stories and photos.

Movie Premiere! Gabe and I got all dressed up and went to see LITTLE FOCKERS. IT was a fun movie and we enjoyed watching it with friends and family...sitting a row away from Dustin Hoffman, Ben Stiller, Jessica Alba, etc... was just an added bonus.

The loves of my life....

2010-12-11T13:04:00.001-08:00

Cousins meet

2010-12-11T12:53:00.001-08:00

Oliver is NYC this weekend and Finnegan got to meet him yesterday....
They love each other already!

Visitors

2010-12-10T06:13:00.000-08:00

December is a busy month in our household. Last weekend one of Finn's BFF's came to visit. Lucky for Gabe and I- so did her parents (Sara was my college roommate). We had a great time catching up and the babes did an amazing job sleeping...Finn in her crib, Cate in a pack in play in the kitchen. It was a bit nutty but totally worked out. It was one of those things were you tried to get everything you thought you might need from the kitchen before she went down...coffee pot- check, milk- check, etc....

We went into the city on Sat. and got to see lots of the Christmas lights! Cate and Finn are pretty spoiled, their first Christmas and they have already been to times square, seen the tree at Rockefeller, they begged us to go ice skating at Bryant Park but we just didn't want to pay for their skate rental;)

We made a pit stop at my office to feed the girls...working on 5th Ave def has it's perks!

Here are a few pics of the weekend...

Poor Finn Marie, we kept her in her ergo so she really didn't get to see much;)

Chilling at my office

Sara and Micah being silly!

I wish I knew what they were thinking here....Finn might be saying "Can you teach me how to roll over"!

No time to post...

2010-12-06T14:23:00.001-08:00

But....seriously....we love this child!!

She spent the weekend showing Cate NYC baby style!

It sure tired her out.

Thanksgiving week

2010-11-29T06:12:00.000-08:00

What a fun week we had leading up to the holiday! We were super busy and totally messed up Finnegan's schedule but she might tell you it was all worth it (I on the other hand might not;) JK!)

On Saturday (the 20th) my mom, step-dad, and little sister arrived. We were really low key- pizza and games, early bed times and trips to target...just nice to be with family. My step dad and Alli went upstate on Sunday afternoon and my mom stayed in town for a few days. We had a thanksgiving potluck Sunday night at church- didn't see Finnegan for most of the night bc she was spreading the love around. On Monday Finn had her 2 month shots...this was the real reason my mom stayed...I was pretty sad/nervous about the shots. I didn't think it would affect me this way but I was almost crying when we walked into the room. Finnegan on the other hand was a champ, she cried for less than 2 seconds.
Cuddling with Grandpa

Chilling with Aunt Alli

Tuesday we went into the city for the first time. We dropped mom off at Penn Station and then made our rounds to both offices to show Finn Marie off. When I got off at my stop and walked the block to my office I passed a bodega that I pass every single day when I am working. For three years I have walked this route but never stopped and purchased anything from this particular gentleman. As I walked by with Finn in the ergo he yelled out "O you had the baby! boy or girl, congrats, etc...". That was a true NY moment! What a nice guy! For about 6 months I basically crawled in front of his bodega bc I was so sick, thankfully he never saw me throw up but he may have seen me stop and lean against a shop while getting my bearings/praying/cursing (don't miss those days!!)

Finn and her best pal in the whole world

When we got to the office I just made a few pit stops to introduce the babe. People fell in love instantly- she has that effect on folks. Then we went to Gabe's office. He was one proud daddy showing her off! After a full day of show and tell Finn and I headed home.

On thanksgiving day we went to a good friends for a fantastic meal. Friday we were lazy but had a group over that night- Finn proceeded to have the worst night since she has been born which meant Sat. and Sunday we decided to stick close to home. I went to the grocery store on Saturday and came home with eggs and a cute little Christmas tree. I couldn't help myself. I just thought we NEEDED one even though we have NO space and won't be around for Christmas. I'm pretty glad I bought it too- last night Finn just stared at those lights and even spoke her first words which were "Thanks Momma!"...smart girl huh:)

Watching the Macy's day parade on her first Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving Meal

Decorating the tree

Finnegan's silliness

2010-11-26T11:47:00.000-08:00

Two months old

2010-11-18T08:18:00.000-08:00

Finn Marie is 2 months old today. She really has changed tons and is such a sweet happy baby. She has a nice little schedule down and last night she actually slept a full 8 1/2 hours(she went down at 10ish and got up at 6:15)! We live in 3 hour increments. Wake up- eat, play, sleep....every three hours. After she eats she plays for about 30 minutes and then goes back to sleep. I love that she sleeps so well but man, I just want to play with her:) I'm sure once she has more awake time I'll be wishing for a little more nap time to get things done...enjoying each and every minute of this stage bc it'll pass in the blink of an eye.

Here are some shots of this morning!

Attack of the poochie lip! I had to share these bc's it's rare that this little one fusses. Honestly she cries when she is hungry and tired and then when she looses her pacifier when we put down to sleep (now don't get me wrong she could start looking for it at 1am, 2:30, and 3:00). Such a content little thing.

Best friends meet!

2010-11-15T05:10:00.000-08:00

This past weekend Finnegan and I hitched a ride with some friends to DC.Finn is now 2 months and this is the first time she was in a car and she did a fantastic job! This was just the first of many mommy/daughter weekends!

Sara, Kelli, and I lived together throughout college and have remained the best of friends...you can read about them in previous posts but if you recall we have all had baby girls within 4 months of each other! Finnegan was beside herself when I told her they would finally meet. We were really low key and actually didn't leave the house besides a nice long walk in the neighborhood. It couldn't have been any more perfect! (well a little more sleep would have been nice;)

Here are WAY too many pictures of our babies. I just couldn't choose bc these three happen to be the cutest, most beautiful, little girls in the world! (it's okay to brag- right??)

Finn with Emily Carter- Emily is 15 days older than our girl. Unfortunately Kelli had out of town company this weekend so she could only spend Saturday with us but we loved every minute!!

Finnegan with Cate Corder- Cate is 4 1/2 months old

Best friends and future college roommates! As different as our pregnancy's these babies all have distinct personalities...I'll let the pictures do most of the talking. **no baby was harmed in the taking of these shots.

This one is my favorite!

The many faces of Finn

2010-11-05T07:50:00.001-07:00

1st Halloween and such

2010-11-02T06:51:00.001-07:00

Gabe and I are doing really well considering the lack of sleep, amount of poop, and constant feedings- I think it helps that we are head over heels for our girl!
The last 6 weeks have been a whirlwind....

My mom was here for a week, then Gabes folks were here, now Aunt Katie is in town. Everyone is taking good care of us. The moms made us meals that we are still enjoying and folks from church have also brought us food- Food may be the best gift! It has been so nice not to have to think about what we are eating!

Finnegan and I venture out every day. Sometimes it's just to the grocery store (I even bring the dog bc lets not forget how spoiled that one is) but other days we go to the park with friends, long walks so that Finn gets a good nap, and we even hung out at the Sprint store for a few hours bc Dakota ate my phone (again!)...

We have gone to bigger events too- Clothing exchanges ( I don't think I saw Finn for the 2 + hours I was there), halloween parties (she slept the whole time), parades (umm slept again!). Yesterday Katie watched her so I could go to the doctors- it felt pretty nice to be able to run a few errands and not have to worry about her.

Finnegan was Cyndi Lauper for our Halloween party. She didn't love the costume as you can see.

Then on Halloween she was our little pea pod. Cute and cozy.

She changes every day. She is very alert and will follow your voice and toys with her eyes. She smiles lots! Her cry is a' changin' too- I'll miss the teeny whimper bc screams aren't as cute. She takes a bottle with no problem and gets one once a day. Gabe really enjoys being able to feed her. We were going to go see a movie this week while we had Katie here but the bed bug thing in NYC is a bit scary so not sure what we will do.

A funny little side note: the other night while I ate my dinner in under 30 seconds, Gabe sat on the couch bouncing his bowl of soup...yes bouncing. I guess that can give you a little insight into our lives as new parents. He didn't even realize what he was doing but we are in a constant state of BOUNCE around here.

My two favorite girls....

Just the begining of Halloween

2010-10-30T05:55:00.001-07:00

Fun Halloween outfit!

And another play date- Finnegan looks huge next to 5 pound Nevaeh.

Bottles and play dates

2010-10-27T15:37:00.000-07:00

Finnegan has been a busy girl.
See what she's up too!

Being cute and sleeping

Reading (okay and sorta sleeping)

Play date at the park with her best girl Anaiah

Cooking with Dad

First bottle!

9 pounds of pure cute'ness....

2010-10-23T07:32:00.000-07:00

Just because I can't resist myself. These are all from the last few days!

One month old today!

2010-10-18T16:42:00.000-07:00

Happy One month little Finn.
We go to to doctors on Wednesday to get her stats...I think she is growing like crazy and am anxious to hear how long and chubs she is.

Time flies........

2010-10-13T05:33:00.001-07:00

When you are feeding, burping, rocking, pooping, crying (her-not me: most of the time;)....
I can't believe Finnegan is almost a month old. I feel so unproductive most days, but my mother in law reminds me that I am growing up a babe- which is pretty darn productive if I do say so myself.
Things are going well. Finnegan doesn't love sleeping during the day. I am trying to put her down awake and she'll sleep for 20 minutes and then wake up. We do let her cry a bit (gasp for some, I know!)hoping she falls asleep again and that just depends on her mood for the day. I wanted to wait a month to give her a pacifier but I lost that battle and it does soothe her a bit.

Sue is here and we don't really see her much because she is cooking up a storm or at the grocery store! JK! She is taking great care of us and we'll be sad to see her go tomorrow.

But enough rambling, here are recent pics! Her hair is starting to go crazy and she is starting to get a little baby acne, weird how she still happens to be the cutest thing I have ever laid my eyes on.
Grammy and Papa with Finn

Crazy hail storm in Brooklyn. We were all safe and sound at home!

She's a changing!

2010-10-07T06:46:00.000-07:00

Can't believe how fast time is going in the Robinson household. Finn continues to make us smile and laugh! Here are some recent pictures of what we have been up to.
We have gone to church, out to breakfast, had an ice cream treat in the neighborhood and spent lots of time chilling at home. Friends have come over to get some snuggles and Gabe's folks arrive today. Gabe went back to work for half days this week but on Monday he returns FT. We will miss him lots!

Some awake time in crib checking out her crazy mobile.

Special time with dad.

Mom making her take yet another picture.

Boppy time!

13 ounces gained...

2010-09-30T16:44:00.000-07:00

And so momma put me in this shirt bc she said I worked hard to deserve it!

Last week we were just coming home....

2010-09-27T09:05:00.000-07:00

This week we are up to all sorts of good things! Our little Finn is changing so quickly. I really love this teeny stage and I know it'll be gone in a blink of an eye.
We have taken our first walks in our ergo and in our stroller (a little picnic in the park), had friends come by for cuddles, sponge baths and more!

We couldn't be more in love with her! Gabe and I are doing well and my mom is here taking really good care of us. I haven't eaten so well in 9 months (thankfully she has also made meals to freeze so that we can continue to enjoy her cooking!). She is sleeping really well and we get btw 2-3 hours of sleep btw each feed. She is eating well and I am anxious to see how much she gained when we go back to the doctor on Wed. (fingers crossed she is back to her birth weight). During her awake time we read, sing and dance. Gabe and I are trying to sleep when she sleeps during the day but that isn't the easiest.

Now to the pics. My brain isn't quite working so I know this little update is all over the place!
Thank you for all your prayers and well wishes!

End of Finn's first week

2010-09-24T14:15:00.001-07:00

* I feel I need to add a disclaimer to this post! No one was harmed in the taking of these photos:) I got a little wild and crazy here. The tutu is her halloween costume as we aren't much of a tutu family but i had a moment of weakness in the Gap while talking to Aunt Katie on the phone.

A girl and her dog

2010-09-22T16:19:00.001-07:00

And more pics...

2010-09-22T06:04:00.000-07:00

We sure do love this little one.

As promised....

2010-09-20T16:37:00.000-07:00

The apple of my eye...
The love of my life...
A true gift and miracle.

Finnegan Marie!

Our daughter is HERE!!

2010-09-19T17:15:00.001-07:00

Finnegan Marie Robinson has joined our little family....and let me tell you she is the most perfect addition. Her birthday is 9/18 born at 2:32, 7 pounds 15 ounces (holy cow almost 8 pounds) and 20 1/2 inches long. She is the most beautiful thing Gabe and I have ever laid our eyes on (we are biased but she's SO cute!). She has a full head of black hair and tends to look like my Italian roots but that is still debatable.

Will post pictures soon but we are all doing well. We head home tomorrow and jump in feet first. We are so thankful to be entrusted with this little life.

Tornado in the hood

2010-09-17T06:58:00.000-07:00

A tornado went through Park Slope yesterday! Everyone is safe and our apartment didn't get hit but it was nuts out there. I was working at the dining room table when the sky went black and then the torrential downpours started with the wind. You couldn't see anything outside it was so strong. I closed the windows and went to comfort Ms. Dakota who was hiding behind the crib (which is still empty...come on Ms. Finn!).

Then in the thick of it my "knight in shining armor" arrives. He looks like he just jumped in a pool with all of his clothes on. He actually stood in the hallway and handed me all his soaking clothes. He said debris was flying everywhere and he couldn't see a thing in front of him. Thankfully he made it home safely.

We took a walk last night around 8 and there were tree's everywhere...took a few pics, they didn't really turn out but for your viewing pleasure~

This one is two doors down

I will NOT

2010-09-10T12:25:00.001-07:00

Have a baby at work!
Yes...I have 12 days till my due date and I no longer have to trek into the city to work. I am beyond excited. I have my laptop in tow and will now be working at my dining room table- in my pjs with my pup at my feet.

Come on water....you can break any time now, I'm not scared of you!

36 1/2 weeks....

2010-08-29T13:28:00.000-07:00

I am definitely large with child...our girl could really come at any time!

Other than being pretty tired we are all doing really well! This kid is a champ and we can't wait to meet her. We currently have birthing classes twice a week, doctors appointments weekly, and then the normal FT work and life stuff happening so I think even if my belly didn't have a cute little Finnegan in it I would be pretty sleepy. Our last appointment I had gained 22 pounds and her heartbeat was nice and strong. Things are starting to happen and the midwife said she was pretty low! The midwife also kept pushing Finn's feet and she just kept kicking back...a little sassy one on my hands.

I wish you could hear Gabe complaining in this pictures. Sometimes I just love embarrassing him.

(I know you love the shoes- unfortunately those are a MUST for this preggo lady)

A story of College Roomates and our Babies

2010-08-14T03:51:00.001-07:00

My two best friends and I met in college. Kelli and I lived next door to each other freshman year and chose to room together sophomore year (people referred to us as just Kelli and Meg and I don't think they really knew which one of us was which). Sophomore year we met Sara who lived downstairs in the dorm. By Junior year the three of us decided to move off campus together, and we lived together our Senior year too (until Gabe and I got married that March).

I loved living with my best friends! We really didn't have any issue's and got along great. After graduation we all went our separate ways...Gabe and I headed to Scotland, Kelli went to NC, and Sara went to VA. It was very hard being so far apart from my favorite ladies. We were in each others' weddings and have kept in touch very well- trying to see each other at least once a year. They now both live in the DC area (I AM SO JEALOUS!)....but the reason I tell this story is that we have all been pregnant together, all having baby girls, AT THE SAME TIME! This wasn't some foolish pact that we made but of course now we talk about living in the same neighborhood and raising our kids together and opening our own daycare- didn't you guys have these talks with your bests buds growing up?

It has been really cool going through this experience together. Our stories are all very different and our pregnancies didn't look alike at all....But we will all have baby girls to swoon over by the end of Sept!
Sara had Cate on June 29th! A perfect little bundle of joy! I can't wait to meet her. NEED PICS OF HER.
Kelli will be having baby girl Carter around Sept. 7th and I will be having Finnegan Marie around Sept. 22nd....CRAZY- RIGHT! What are the chances, and the fact that we are all having girls. Can't wait for our next get-together.

Kelli and Joel came down for Finn's shower and we got to take some great belly shots...be warned, we do show bare bumps!

NUMB by Sean Ferrell

2010-08-03T06:23:00.000-07:00

Gabe here. A book I worked on and am extremely excited about, NUMB by Sean Ferrell, goes on sale today. In a nutshell, it's the story of a man who can feel no pain and has no memory of how he came to be this way. Great concept, and that by itself should be enough to make you want to read it. But Sean is a fiercely talented author, one of the smartest and most imaginative writers I've come across, and he takes this great concept and turns it into a heart-warming, thought-provoking, endearing, truly gripping read. I think Sean's going to be writing great books for a long, long time, and I was thrilled to get to work with him on this one. You can check out an excerpt from NUMB here. Or, if you want to just go ahead and buy it, by all means, go for it. You'll find a list of online retailers here, or just check out your nearest bookstore. I'm not even trying to veil my plugging of this book, and I make no apologies. It's a good one. Happy reading!

Showered with LOVE

2010-07-28T03:48:00.001-07:00

July has been a fun and exhausting month. I have wanted to share pictures of Finnegan's TWO parties for a while now but never seem to find my way to the computer...Enough excuses. Our friends and family sure know how to make us feel loved. It was so overwhelming having people come out and love on us and shower us with more baby goodies then this gal knows what to do with!

On July 10th our mom's threw us a shower! They flew me to NC and spoiled me right and left. What a fantastic trip. It was SHORT, like less than 48 hours, and a bit tiring on these ole' bones (or shall I say weighted down bones)but so incredibly worth it. I don't have all the pics from the shower yet but here is a little snap shot.
What a cute cake! They matched the plates perfectly...we had about 10 desserts to choose from, as this was a "Dessert shower" (read this pregnant womens dream)

A baby buggy watermelon! So fun.

The first of Aunt Katie's 25 gifts for out sweet little girl.

This is Finnegan's baby quilt- made with love by one of my best friend Susan. It was a total surprise and I love everything about it! Susan is getting married this Saturday and I do not know where she found the time to make this...but we sure are glad!

What a fun shower! We took pictures of all those that attended but don't have them yet. I got home on Sunday and slept, had a CRAZY week at work, ended up in the hosptial with an IV drip bc I was dehydrated, and then at another party for my girl the next Saturday!! What a whirlwind.

My best'ees in NY threw Finn a shower too. Finnegan was all dancing for joy and so excited as soon as she walked into the party. She especially loved hanging out at the food table! Again what overwhelming love we felt from our friends. We played some fun games- one in which they had to guess how round my belly was by cutting a string- Crystal was spot on! She couldn't' win the prize though bc she was one of the hosts;)

Yes a friend made this amazing sweater- and yes we all wanted her to make us matching ones!

This is a NY mom must have! An ergo:) Can't wait to have my girl in it.

Some of my peeps...I need to get a pic of the hosts to share too!

The Growing Belly

2010-07-06T18:23:00.001-07:00

I have had Gabe take a few pics of me and Finn so I can share the bump'ster with the family and friends that don't live around here. (OK basically this is for my mom and sisters-not sure anyone else cares;)

Not the most flattering shots but you get the idea. Fun updates soon, but it's 9:30 and I am falling asleep as I type. I am currently 29 weeks, ideally I make it to 40, so you do the math. Pretty soon Gabe and I will be parents....to say we are excited to meet Finnegan is an understatement, this girl is already very loved.

Preggo Stats

2010-06-20T06:55:00.000-07:00

I stole this from a friends blog but thought it would be a good way to share some statistics:
How far along? 26+ weeks
Total weight gain: 12 pounds (the only good thing about not being able to keep anything down for 4 months)
Maternity clothes? Yes...plus all things elastic waste- gym shorts! Gabe's tank tops and tee-shirts, and billowy dresses
Stretch marks? Nope
Sleep: Pretty uncomfortable but sleeping well. I swap sides at least twice an hour. Thanking God that Gabe can sleep through it.
Best moment this week: Hearing Finnegan's nice strong heartbeat Monday night. After the midwife removed the doppler Finn moved to the other side and kicked me...she is already full of spunk!
Movement: Non-stop! She is totally nuts. We can feel where she is and kind of push her over and make her move too. She loves music, listening to a kids cd now- THEY MIGHT BE GIANTS and she is dancing!
Food cravings: Nada, appetite is pretty normal. I do like chocolate or ice cream every day but can't blame it on the girl.
Gender: 100% girl unless sono was wrong- we wouldn't know that until D day!
Name: Finnegan Marie (pretty sure on the middle name). If she comes out and we aren't feeling Finn it'll change but she is already Finnegan to us.
Labor Signs: umm, NO!
Belly Button in or out? In
What I miss: Coffee, bending normally, sleeping on my back and belly
Weekly Wisdom: When you need help ask! When you don't- JUST DO IT!
Milestones: Guess this means progress we are making on getting ready: Birthing class almost booked, glucose test taken, book shelves cleared of some space, winter clothes put away...so much more to do!
Photo- 6 months

So busy- tons of pics to share...

2010-06-20T06:22:00.000-07:00

These days the only real request I get is- SEND PICS OF THE BELLY....so I'll def have Gabe take a bunch of those this week bc our Finn Girl sure is popping out. In the meantime I have some pictures of our last month:

1: Crib assembly...super easy to put up and now my girl has a nice cozy bed! Many people ask us if we are moving now that we have a babe on the way, and the good news is that we have a teeny little room/closet for her so until #2 would come we are good in our current one bedroom.

2. Street Fair- good food and good times strolling 5th Avenue in the neighborhood.

3. Wedding in Tarrytown, NY. Gabe and I rented a car for the day to go to a co-workers wedding. It was so pretty- wedding in garden, cocktail hour at the castle, and reception at the carriage house!

4. Alli, my 17 year old sister, was in town with a singing group from NC so we went to see her perform. What a treat to see her! She even got to feel Finn kick which made my mom a bit jealous!

I have been feeling so much better these days so we are really busy catching up with long lost friends over good meals(that live two blocks away;), getting out and about in the neighborhood, and getting the apartment ready for our girl. We only have three more months and are so excited to meet this little acrobat!

Showers and weddings

2010-06-12T05:09:00.000-07:00

So the reason our baby moon ended up being in NC was because we had a wedding on Saturday in Chapel Hill and then the next Saturday my best friend had a bridal shower! We really did have a fantastic time but it seems like ages ago as work and life here in NY hasn't slowed down!
We didn't take any pics of the wedding but this was the two of us all dressed up on the college campus.

Gabe and I in Chapel Hill- we loved walking around the campus early Sunday morning.

Brunch with Susan and her soon to be hubbie- Curt!

Susan's garden party! She looked amazing and will be the most beautiful bride in just a few weeks!

Bachelorette Party- I was the chubby one;)

Blowing Rock

2010-06-01T17:24:00.000-07:00

Gabe and I had a few events last month that brought us to NC~ we decided to make a little baby moon out of it and spent a few nights in Blowing Rock. A very generous friend allowed us to stay in their magnificent cabin and Gabe and I enjoyed a peaceful week in the mountains.
I'll let the pictures paint the picture...

Gabe and I spent a day at the spa...he got a massage and I got a mani/pedi. But the whole day was spent in these plush robes. I don't relax very well but this day was a real treat! We actually went on a hike with the staff and then went back and vegg'ed!

Game night!

Laying by the lake

We ate lots of good food, enjoyed nature, and enjoyed being away just the two of us before Finn arrives!

BRAINS: A Zombie Memoir

2010-05-25T03:50:00.000-07:00

Gabe here. A book I edited--Brains: A Zombie Memoir by Robin Becker--goes on sale today. I'm really excited about it. As the title suggests, this is a zombie memoir, i.e., a memoir as told by someone who was turned by the zombie virus but who also retained his sentience (a unique twist on zombie mythology--this normally doesn't happen). It's not just for zombie lovers, though. Robin is a really great writer--very smart and very witty. I think of this as a literary novel with zombies. Check out the Amazon page here. Or pick it up in a bookstore. These zombies would destroy Robert Pattinson...and that other moron from Twilight who always has his shirt off.

It's a GIRL!!

2010-05-13T06:08:00.001-07:00

We couldn't be more excited! Her name is Finnegan Marie (middle name may change) and she is moving around like crazy these days. We called lots of our family and friends right away to tell them so that they could celebrate with us...BUT we were headed to NC two days afterwards so decided to keep it a secret from my folks, sisters and Gabe's folks so that we could tell them in person.

I wanted to wear shirts that said IT'S A GIRL but Gabe vetoed that so we had to come up with another plan. We decided to order a cookie cake from the Charlotte Airport and have them write the news on it and put a little pink border around it- once we landed we had to run to pick it up, wrap it like a gift, and meet the families for brunch where we would give them the gift. They didn't even know that we were finding out the gender before the trip so we thought it would be a fun day!

Here are pictures of us getting ready in the airport:

And then after we ordered our food, we gave the moms the gift and told them it was a thank you for all they had done when they were here in March. For about 15 seconds they thought that we had just bought them a cookie cake...then Sue READ what the cookie cake said~

My mom just started yelling- It's a Girl? It's a girl? And everyone was really excited (especially my sisters who have already purchased her girly clothes.)

**A note on name telling before the baby comes** It is a very personal thing to come up with a name and then share it with others...I have many friends and family members who wait to have the baby to share with others. I was told by a few people that it's bc people share their opinions on whether they like the name or not beforehand but generally won't do it after the baby comes. Gabe and I weren't too concerned about what other people thought and were excited to tell (again just a personal decision) but it is VERY funny what people say. A few responses:
1. Blank Stare or nothing
2. Why?
3. You still have time to change your mind
4. Many folks love it and let us know that too:)
I just kind of laugh and let folks know that Gabe and I knew years ago that if we had a girl she would be Finnegan, hope the name grows on everyone else!

Here I am at five months Preggo with Finn:

Spring Time

2010-04-25T17:40:00.000-07:00

As things start to look up a bit in the Robinson household Gabe and I have gotten out a little more. We have started grilling out back and just enjoying all that Spring has to offer!

We are starting to work on little projects around the house- last weekend was hanging curtains. We have been in this apartment for over 2 years but have failed to put up our curtains. So Sunday we put up our white curtains in the bedroom. 15 minutes later the radiators all started to leak...and drip...through the ceiling...into our apartment...onto our nicely hung curtains. That is what we get for hanging those darn things! A few ceiling tiles (think 3rd grade classroom drop ceiling) all have a really nice yellow/orange stain on them. Add that to the to do list!

Other things on the list are: hang pictures that have been sitting in a corner for two years, get rid of old computer, get rid of old printer that we were to lazy to plug in, clear some space on our bookshelves, etc. All pretty basic but we say one or two things a weekend- I mean come on, it took us 2 years to get this far!

Work has been keeping us both very busy but next week we are taking a much needed vacation. I wanted to go to Puerto Rico but the NC mountains won out- don't ask!We have a wedding in Chapel Hill on Saturday and then head to Blowing Rock. We can't wait to have some down time just the two of us.
We are a little worried about this one:

But a friend will be spending the week at our place and we just hope Dakota is on her best behavior. Gabe flies back to NY on Thursday and I will be staying in NC for my best friends bridal shower!! So looking forward to our getaway.

Here are a few Spring photos on our block~ I was trying to get artistic!

The Bump Grows

2010-04-11T13:01:00.000-07:00

Here is a picture of the growing bump. Although so far I really hate pregnancy (just bc it's kicked my butt) I do love the growing bump. I have always thought pregnant women were just amazing...and so I feel pretty blessed to have a belly filled with baby goodness.
3 1/2 months

4 months

Things are going well. We saw the heart beat this past week (stubborn kid wouldn't let us hear it so we had to get a sonogram to see it)but the midwife wasn't worried at all. Then Friday night we had some amazing homemade soup that a girlfriend from church gave us (such a TREAT!!)and watched The Hangover. The movie was funny but nothing amazing. The thing that was so great is that I was feeling good and Gabe and I were able to really just enjoy a night together without a bathroom visit (or threat of one). The music in the movie was old school dance music so we also got to bust a few moves- back to the good ole' Robinson ways.

Saturday I went out to breakfast with some girlfriends and then went shopping. I wasn't feeling 100% the whole day but the sun was shining, I was with my girls, and treated myself to a Mister Softee cone on the way home. That night we had a birthday party to go to so we kept pretty busy. Gabe has had to work all weekend so that stunk but he has read his manuscripts at the cemetery and park. Here is hoping to a vomit free week!

The Robinson clan grows....

2010-03-25T15:45:00.000-07:00

Meggers is Preggers!

Gabe and I are expecting our first bambino in September. We couldn't be happier, we feel very blessed with this little miracle and can't wait to meet him or her.

The last two months (seeing that the first month you don't even know you are preggo) have been the hardest two months I have ever gone through. Unfortunately, I am not one of those lovely glowing pregnant women, but more like a disgusting (acne) very sick pregnant momma. It has been HARD not only on me but the Gabester too. He has passed his first fathering test with flying colors. He not only comforts me the 3 times a day I get sick (meaning he is in the bathroom with me rubbing my back) but has done 100% around the house (cooking, cleaning, grocery shopping, dog walking). I am so thankful for him and couldn't have gotten through the first trimester without him.

Things are starting to look up as I enter my 15th week. I still feel pretty sick but I am able to keep more food down. Our mothers plus my sister came this past weekend to take care of us and totally spoiled us. Made us meals, cleaned, organized the babies room (or closet- whatever!). I was pretty proud of them- they made it to Ikea and back with tons of large Tupperware containers and then proceeded to sort our junk!

This baby already has lots of people who are loving on it and praying for it! We thank God for this gift of life, as I start to feel better it hits me more each day. Jesus has been carrying me through this pregnancy and has definitely been my stronghold! I really think Gabe would do a better job carrying the babe but feel honored that I was chosen to carry and be this baby's mother.

Some of the sweetest time Gabe and I have together is right before I go to bed....I tend to feel the worst this time of day and so Gabe will actually stick with me from brushing my teeth to laying down and falling asleep (I am beyond pitiful- we aren't used to high maintenance around here but for the time being I am guilty). I also will have minor panic attacks when laying down- probably due to many things but also very bad experiences with food coming right up as I lay down- but Gabe is beside me the whole time. He will read a kids book and then sing me a song...and I really do feel calmer! What an amazing husband.

I'll be the obnoxious woman who posts belly shots- don't worry. We will find out the gender and will share, we will probably have a name picked out and will share that too. I'll probably share gross stories that only some people will appreciate...so hope this pregnancy doesn't scare you away!!

6 Year Anni!

2010-03-07T10:33:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was our 6th wedding anniversary! Time has flown by, and continues to do so...I can't believe 6 years ago Gabe and I said our vows in the rustic little church in Tanglewood Park. I knew that life would never be the same after that day, and it hasn't! Marriage has been such a sweet gift, and although not always easy, Gabe and I kind of fit together like puzzle pieces.

I wasn't feeling that well yesterday so we took it VERY easy...but we did get out to enjoy some of the sunshine here in Brooklyn. We took a nice leisurely walk to Beirkraft and bought ourselves some ice-cream sandwiches. We found a bench outside and talked about the last 6 years as I has ice cream running down my wrists (don't think Gabe did bc he is the clean one in the fam).

Can't wait to see what the next 6 have in store...Thankful to have Gabriel at my side through this journey!

You may think....

2010-02-10T09:32:00.000-08:00

That we have been extremely busy or that we are under the weather and that is why we have not updated the blog (and you would actually be 100% correct) but to be perfectly honest....Who wants to post over a title that says MY WIFE BE THE BEST?

I mean come on! Who doesn't like a little praise from the hubster every now and then?

BUT we actually have been super busy. Birthday parties- my own and friends. Gabe and I went to MILK and COOKIES with two of our couple friends. I also went to see NEXT TO NORMAL (a Broadway show) with another girlfriend...it was amazing but so depressing- yes I cried. I also had to yell at the grandma sitting behind us bc she was sucking on a lollipop so loudly that everyone was turing around. After 15 minutes (this sucker might have lasted the whole 2nd act) I kindly turned around and said- THAT IS REALLY LOUD- in my softest whisper of course.

Our church had an event to raise money for LOVE146, a great organization that raises money and awareness on child sex slavery. It was an auction -silent and live- and they had a band and some stand up comedians perform. It was such a great night...we walked out without any goods bc our lovely friends all out-bid us:)

There have been a few other things in there as well but don't want to start boring you to much! I do have a few pictures to share but those will have to wait for the next post. It's snowing in NY and it's beautiful. Many offices closed- mine (and Gabes) did not....kinda stinks!

My wife be the best

2010-01-17T09:30:00.000-08:00

As you know from the previous post, my 30th birthday was this past week. And I just have to say that ol' Meggers did one heck of a job making me feel extra special. It all started Wednesday night, the night before my birthday. I had been out watching a UNC game, and, when I got home, one whole wall in our dining room was covered with sheets of construction paper, each one with a reason why Meg loves me.

Then, on Thursday, she said I could eat anywhere I wanted, and I, of course, chose buffalo wings. 20 of 'em. I was feeling it. But the big reveal that night was that Meg had bought me a Wii. This really meant a lot because she hates video games. But she knows how much fun I have with them, so she's selflessly indulged me.

On Friday, when we got home from work, the table was set for 6, and she informed me that a few of our good friends were coming for dinner. It was a really nice time just hanging out and relaxing. And she even had them do something I had suggested a couple of weeks ago as a joke. She had them bring a book from which they read their favorite passages. Really enjoyed that. Honestly.

And then on Saturday we had the big party at the Draft Barn, where about 16 of our friends came and celebrated with me. It was such a fun time, and a perfect way to end my 30th birthday week. (Trust me, those are sleepy eyes in my pic. It wasn't that big of a bash.)

Meg really made me feel loved, and I really appreciate that. 30 only comes once, and she made it special. Thanks, Meggers. I love you!

My Main Squeeze

2010-01-14T03:03:00.001-08:00

Turns 30 today!
My hot young stud...is getting to be an old hot distinguished man.
Happy Birthday Gabe- I thank God for you on a daily basis, I am blessed to have you in my life. Thanks for serving me and loving me with Christs love.

I hope today is a fantastic day for you! May the best be yet to come,
love
your spring chicken (and the pup)

New babies make me Smile....

2010-01-11T17:36:00.000-08:00

See the super attractive couple in the last post? O ya' there are a few of those...The one with the pretty black dress and the white button down? Ya' we go to church with them...and they make beautiful babies!

Aubrey and Andrea just welcomed their baby girl into the world Sunday night. Her name is Anaiah and o my....she makes my heart smile! She is beautiful...her folks are doing really well and are smitten beyond belief....

But hey- after these pictures, aren't you?

Happy New Year!

2010-01-07T16:12:00.000-08:00

We spent new years with some great friends and had a fantastic time ringing in the new year! Only good things for 2010...

This is very blurry but was too fun not to share!

Christmas in NC

2010-01-01T14:18:00.000-08:00

We drove to NC this year to be with family for Christmas...we had a wonderful time.
We stayed at my folks house the first part of the week and then moved down the street to Gabe's folks for the rest of the week.

We went to Christmas Eve service with both families and went back to the Rob's for some stew. We also got a call from our friends in Scotland to announce the arrival of Isla Rebekah (congrats Kenny and Jude!!) Then Christmas morning we all woke up at 4:15 to serve at a soup kitchen for their annual Christmas breakfast. Unfortunately Gabe was still sick and couldn't join us but this was definitely a highlight of the week. We all left feeling blessed beyond belief. We had a big breakfast together and then we relaxed until dinner. Sue and Dave came back over and we had a nice big meal! We then spent a few hours playing rock band- this family sure knows how to "rock"!
Gabe spent the majority of Saturday 4-wheeling with my step father. Ask Gabe about it- his whole face lights up everytime he talks about it and tells everyone it was the most fun he has had in a long time!
We moved to Gabes parents home for the rest of our visit. We played lots of Wii and ate lots of food. We were also able to catch up with a few friends and other family members. It was such a relaxing visit- Dakota and I both got hair cuts (saved at least $100 doing this in NC and not NYC) and I even got a massage from a 2 year old gift card that I had through work. We hit up all of our favorite restaraunts and really had a wonderful week in NC.