Nathan and Bonny Rollins

2010-10-27T19:00:00.003-04:00

A day at the pumpkin patch. Oh how I love the fall.

Nates first deer of the season. He shot it on opening day.

Abbey is our little princess witch. She says princess when she puts it on so we are rolling with it.

Happy 29th Birthday Nate

Of course our family tradition is you get to eat off a special plate on your birthday.

http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_2qbLbh9U6F8/TB5IfcITTzI/AAAAAAAACSM/As0MutB_Y28/s1600/DSCN4633.JPG

2010-06-20T12:54:00.007-04:00

Introducing

Miss Julie Ann Rollins

Born June 7, 2010 at 3:01am

7lbs 10oz 21 1/4 in long

I went into labor Sunday night around 7:00 and headed to the hospital. After an epidural I got comfortable and tried to sleep in between people coming into my room to check on Julie Ann and I. Finally at around 2:00 they broke my water because I was fully dilated and my cervix was gone but she was still sitting high. She came quick after that but her cord was wrapped around her neck and pulled some of the placenta off causing her to loose a little bit of blood. She ended up fine in the end but because of the partial placental abruption she got dehydrated which caused her to loose a lot of weight and get jaundice. Therefore we had to stay an extra day in the hospital and she had to get poked a whole lot with needles:( She ended up fine in the end and is growing so fast now. Garrett and Abbey were excited to meet Julie Ann and Garrett has done wonderful. Abbey has had a little bit of a hard time adjusting to the shared attention but is starting to come around. Nathan and I are so thankful to have three wonderful and healthy children.

Julie Ann coming home from the hospital.

Her first bath in the hospital.

Meeting Daddy and Mommy

Post epidural!

She is here!

2010-06-10T15:46:00.003-04:00

Here are a few pictures of our sweet Julie Ann Rollins. I will post more as I get them all organized. We are both home and doing very well.

2010-05-22T14:53:00.002-04:00

Our sweet baby girl is due anytime in the next two weeks. We are hoping she comes closer to the two week mark so that Nona can be here to help with Garrett and Abbey. Saying that she will arrive whenever she wants to.

We also just moved into our onbase house, which we are so happy with. I am waiting to put pictures up until I make curtains and some furniture arrives we ordered. I am going to attempt to make my own curtains so it may be a little while.

Keep checking back for pictures of Julie Ann when she gets here.

A LONG Overdue Post

2010-04-16T09:36:00.007-04:00

Happy Easter 2010

I know it has been forever since I published a post. We just got a new computer which will allow me to keep this updated much more often. Things are rolling along here. We move into onbase housing in just two short weeks. 5 weeks after that our new baby is due to arrive. On top of that summer is right around the corner and that will keep us all outside and busy which means lots of cute new pictures. Hope all is well with everyone else.

Love,

The Rollins Family

album 12\06\2009 (151 photos), by Bonny Rollins

2009-12-16T20:19:00.001-05:00

I'd like to share my Snapfish photos with you. Once you have checked out my photos you can order prints and upload your own photos to share.
Click here to view photos

Last of the Summer

2009-09-11T14:13:00.024-04:00

These pictures are backwards in order, but I will explain them all.

This is Garrett's classroom on his first day of school.

Garrett and Quaid ran into each other on the first day and I was able to snap a shot.

Garrett loves school already. His teachers names are Mrs. Debbie and Mrs. Kim. They said he is really good and very quiet going to each center. I said "don't worry he will warm up and show you a different side soon enough".

This is Garrett, Ruth and Jack sliding down a big slide and the county fair in CT.

I love the face I captured on these boys. I am so glad that they have each other to grow up with. Even if they only see each other every couple of months.

The prize winning pumpkins. They were HUGE!

Here we are at the National Zoo in DC. Dad said "Garrett stick your head in that dinosaur" and Garrett did. He has no fear.

Nate snapped this picture.

The tiger went for a little swim while we were there.

Quaid stayed the night one night when his mom and dad went to the hospital to have baby brother. The boys wore those capes all night. Super cute!

Okay this will be a lasting memory for me. Garrett decided he wanted to pull Abbey in her car and made a pull system (by himself). I let them go in the road and he pulled her up and down the street. She was having a blast.

In Texas we caught a toad and introduced it to Garrett.

At Uncle Ben and Aunt Neelys house the kids were obsessed with the dog cage.

Uncle Ben and Garrett

Garrett feeding and petting a baby dear at Uncle Marks house.

The deer were super interested in Abbey for some reason.

Uncle Patrick taking the kids for a ride on a horse.

OH MY! I get this face every now and then. Such a little stinker, but you can see his cute little freckle under his eye.

She just keeps getting cuter. What are we going to do when she turns 16!

The human pillow AKA Uncle Tyler.

Abbey's Great Grandparents Mommy Jo and Papa Jay.

This is watching Tyler run at the Junior Olympics.

Well that sums up our summer. We had family come here, we went to Texas, we went to the Zoo and to visit Aunt Rebecca in CT. Now school has started and we are setteling into a good routine for the fall. I am super excited since cool weather is moving in and it actually feels like September. Next comes Birthdays for Garrett and I and then hunting season for Nathan. Hopefully that will bring some good pictures.

Summer Fun Days

2009-07-29T20:26:00.004-04:00

We had a nice visit from my old college roomie and her husband and son. Josh is a US Marshall and had genuine handcuffs on him (along with a badge and a gun) and Garrett played the bad guy.

Okay, to explain this picture.... We visited Mount Vernon with Josh and Leana and this little fella is the main attraction as you walk in. I happened to have a McDonald french fry in my purse and he is munching on it. Super funny.

Josh, Leana, and Will Wright. What a beautiful family!

This is what Garrett and Abbey were interested in at George Washington's House.

Eating eggs Benedict for breakfast. Surprisingly my kids like that as long as it doesn't have the hollindaise sauce on top, which would make it an egg on an english muffin with some ham lol.

My awesome boy. I am so proud of his swim progress. He has so much courage. He passed the guppies class in swim and is now officially a seal. He is doing well but considering there are 5 boys and 1 girl in his class he does a lot of goofing off. I guess it is all part of being a boy.

The boys just having a little fun on our porch. Garrett is way to heavy to be carting around in that thing. It is for our tiny Abbey.

Happy Belated 4th of July. We had a BBQ dinner and Nathan's Aunt Gen came down for the day. Then that evening we went to Quantico to see the base fireworks. Garrett was very excited about our little home fireworks. He could have lived without the big ones this year.

Mommy Jo's Blueberries in the Snow recipe. It turned out very yummy!

Garrett and his new Best Buddy Quaid. Quaid and he will be going to the same pre-school, but different classes since Quaid is already 4.

Notice the cup full of food. This is where she sometimes tries to hide her leftovers. I never have to worry about her not eating enough. She is my super eater.

I want to wish Nathan's Brother Tyler good "skill" this weekend. We are traveling down to Greensboro, NC to watch him compete in the Junior Olympics in hurdles. Nathan and I are both so proud of Tyler. He is not like the typical teenager. He has Type 1 diabetes and when faced with that hurdle in life he chose to accept it and make it part of his life and not let it take over his. He amazes me in all that he accomplishes and I know it is twice as hard in his situation. We love you Tyler and can't wait to see you compete this weekend.

We are also going to be seeing Nathan's Mom, Step Dad, Mommy Jo and Papa Jay (his Grandparents) this weekend. It is going to be a busy, but fun filled mini vacation. Then they are heading up here to Stafford to see our new home and visit with Nathan a little more before snatching my Garrett and running back to Texas with him. Garrett is so excited to go with Nona to Texas. I know he is going to be a bit spoiled on that trip!

Finally August 13-20 Abbey and I are flying down to Texas to pick up Garrett and visit with my family. Please keep my Dad in your prayers. His age is finally catching up with him and his back is causing him tremendous pain when he walks. He asked God for another 10 years on his Birthday this year and I hope that God will grant him that, though I believe it is wishful thinking. He has already lived well past the average lifespan which I am so very thankful for. I love you Dad!

Gods Blessings and Goodnight

Summer Time

2009-06-25T14:53:00.005-04:00

Our little Girly Girl

We went berry picking a couple weekends ago. The farm we went to had so many berries. They had red raspberries, black raspberries, and blueberries. Abbey I would say was more into the berries. Garrett was totally swept away by the goats that he could feed.

The kids having a Popsicle after a day at the pool. I admit I bribe my kids with Popsicles to get them home from the pool.

Story Land

2009-06-09T12:20:00.006-04:00

Our Trip To Story Land

We had such a great time on this trip. We did miss Daddy, but he was working all weekend so it wasn't as bad as if he was home the whole weekend. Story Land was age appropriate for both kids so it was easy on me. I would say the only thing that put a damper on things was the New Hampshire black flies we experienced. They ate the kiddos up, but Ruth and Jack got bit a little more. They must taste sweet. They only came out at our hotel so thank goodness there was a screened in porch. We can't wait to go back again next year.

Daddy, Garrett and Abbey the day we left.

These were little cars that Garrett could actually steer and control the speed. It was cute to watch him drive.

The roller coaster was Garretts favorite ride. We had to ride it twice because he asked all day to ride it again.

Abbey had a sink bath when we got home.

2009-06-03T14:46:00.005-04:00

Before and After House pictures.

I am finally able to post our before and after pictures. We still have a few little things to do, but for the most part we are done. It has been a real challenge to get this all done and still manage to keep our sanity, but Nate and I did it. Through this stressful but exciting project we learned how truly blessed we are to have such a wonderful home. Now since my time working on the home is complete I am going to join the local gym, church, and possibly OWC. I really want to try and volunteer some of my time doing something for others since God has blessed us with all that we have. I am so thankful for my beautiful family and a husband that still loves me after ten long years together.

More pictures will come when I get a chance to actually make all the beds upstairs. This morning was a Dunkin Donuts morning so the kids and I jumped out of bed and got dressed and headed out for some sprinkle donuts and coffee.

Before

After

Our before kitchen

Before

After

After

Before Living Room

After

Before Bar Area

After

Laundry Before

Laundry After: You can tell this room is well used!

Before study

After Study

Before: Half Bath

After

Dining Room Before

Dining room after

2009-06-01T12:05:00.001-04:00

A visit from Aunt Rebecca

This isn't going to end well.

Garrett and his cousin Jack. Can you tell what they are into these days. Need a hint?

2009-06-01T11:19:00.004-04:00

We took a little time out of our house work to take Garrett to see Thomas the Train. He had a great time and still talks about it. The train was at the B and O Railroad museum in Baltamore.

Nate's first day of work. He looks so good in his "pickle suit"

Garretts last day at his preschool. I was so sad that I had to pull him out early. His teacher was so good and he was really learning so much. He can't wait to start school again. He talks about it all the time.

His school Easter Egg Hunt.

I love this picture. Abbey has her little dolly wrapped around her arm. That is her comfort when she goes to bed. Soooo sweet!

These are our old neighbors Jay and Alana. This was our last day at the beach in North Carolina.

I thought this picture was very approprate for where we go in life. Wonder which direction we will be headed next?

Garrett at the NC aquarium. He was not scared to touch a thing. He really loves all animals. I went outside and found his wagon filled with dead worms. He tries to bring them in and I make him walk right back out. Yuck but cute.

Poor Abbey! The things your daddy does to you.

Spending our last few days at home. We both miss that little house. It was a great home.

Eating dinner on a card board box. What fun......kidding.

2009-06-01T11:03:00.003-04:00

Here are a few pictures from before we started our move. I will have more up soon. I know, FINALLY right!!!

Garrett before school. He had his Easter pictures that day.

2008-12-15T15:36:00.000-05:00

My little Christmas Elf's
Garrett and Abbey opening their first gift from Uncle Ben and Aunt Neely

Abbey after a battle with a chocolate chip cookie. She won!

Nate and Garrett hanging out in his new tree stand.

Nate is now officially the Weapons Company Commander. Not sure I'm lovin that. He is gone a ton.

Garrett was so excited to decorate our christmas tree. He couldn't wait until I got the lights on.

Thanksgiving Dinner at the kids table.

Grammy and Garrett making a masterpiece.

The two turkey cookers Angela and Nate.

Poppy and Garrett enjoying some chocolate and coffee.

Turkey taking a dive.

Garrett after his first day of pre-school

All ready to go to school.

On our way to his frist day of school.

Our first fire for the season.

Garrett was so tired he walked inside layed down on the floor and fell asleep. Very out of character for him.

1/9 Birthday Ball

2008-12-15T14:52:00.000-05:00

Michelle and I

Chris and Michelle

Angela and I

Rob and Angie

Boys being goofy

The Afterparty

That was a fun night!

2008-11-18T16:07:00.000-05:00

Here are pictures from before Halloween to mid November. We had a great time on our vacation to the Smokey Mountians. We did lots of hiking and touring. We stayed in the National Forest about two miles away the National Park so our cabin was right in the middle of the mountains. We could not have picked a better place to stay. The time of year was perfect. The leaves were the most beautiful colors and the Mountains looked like they were glowing with orange, gold, brown, yellow, red, and green. It was breathtaking.

Garrett digging in the dirt.
This was the drive to our cabin. We stayed on a little creek called Caney Creek.

Our cabin.

Watching the pre show at the Dixie Stampede

Garrett and Nathan having a drink before the show.

Veteran's Day

Garrett at this mirror maze. He kept running into the mirror thinking it was the right way. It was super funny.

We took him to the aquarium and he LOVED it. He was so excited to touch the sting rays. He wasn't scared at all.

Our view on the hike up to the highest point in the Smokeys.

At the very top.

Abbey had the best ride of all. I was thankful I had been working out. It was a tough hike.

Garrett and Abbey hanging out in our cabin before bed time.

Abbey making a funny face.

These pictures are a little out of order but on the way to TN my sister was passing through so we got to meet up with her for dinner. It was a total suprise but I was glad it worked out.

In Winston-Salem.

I love the fall so much.

Abbey is saying "Mom look at where Daddy put me". He thinks it's funny to put our kids in confined spaces.

Happy Halloween 2008

Getting ready to trick or treat

Allie, Garrett, Abbey, and Adison.

Garrett opening his cool stuff from Aunt Neely and Uncle Ben. Thanks guys.

Garrett riding his bike with the neighbors.

Views from The Smokey Mountains.

Oh Captain My Captain

2008-10-22T08:02:00.000-04:00

Nathan was promoted to Captain last Friday. Here are the pictures from it, and some full body pictures of me for you Mom. Hope you can see my progress. Personal Trainers ROCK! Love You.

Our Family is Complete Again

2008-10-05T08:28:00.001-04:00

Well as you can see Nathan made it home. He got here Friday at around 9:05am. Getting ready for his return has been like being on a roller coaster, but the second he arrived I felt like the ride was over. The rush of emotion I felt was indescribable. I was so excited when I saw the buses pull up that I lost all my courage and started crying. After a couple of deep breaths I regained my courage and had a big smile when I welcomed Nathan back. Garrett was of course excited to see him, but wasn't sure how to react once his Daddy was standing in front of him. He was quiet at first, but after about 5 minutes he warmed up. Abbey did well too though I had my doubts about her. She was so mesmerized by his shiny bars I don't think she realized who was holding her. The homecoming went very smooth with no long waits or big holdups. After he got off the bus and got his hugs he went to the armory to turn in his weapon and within 15 minutes he was back and ours to keep. We loaded up the car and headed home. The last 48 hours have been amazing. Nathan and I just kind of picked up where we left off. Saturday we went to Toys R Us and got Garrett his new bike. He had been waiting patiently for his Daddy to get home so he could share the memories. Of course all this is getting captured on my new camera because two days before Nathan got home my camera broke. It is just a little spring and is fixable, but it would take two to three weeks and I couldn't go that long without a camera. Especially since Nathan was coming home. Talk about bad timing huh? I guess with all the things that could have gone wrong this deployment I will take a broken camera any day. I am glad it is over.

To all my family and friends that supported me through this deployment I want to send out a big THANK YOU. I could not have made it through the last seven months without all of you. And a special thank you to all my fellow military wives. You know exactly how it feels and that is very comforting at times. Thanks for all the good times and good memories. You guys are the next best thing to having a husband lol. This poem is for you:

Imagine a Woman

Imagine a woman who believes it is right and good she is a woman. A woman who honors her experiences and tells her stories. Who refuses to carry the sins of others within her body and life.

Imagine a woman who trusts and respects herself. A woman who listens to her needs and desires. Who meets them with tenderness and grace.

Imagine a woman who has acknowledged the past's influence on her present. A woman who has walked through her past. Who has healed into the present.

Imagine a woman who authors her whole life. A woman who exerts, initiates, and moves on her own behalf. Who refuses to surrender except to her truest self and wisest voice.

Imagine a woman who names her own gods. A woman who imagines the divine in her image and likeness. Who designs a personal spirituality to inform her daily life.

Imagine a woman in love with her own body. A woman who believes her body is enough, just as it is. Who celebrates her body's rhythms and cycles as an exquisite resource.

Imagine a woman who honors the body of the Goddess in hr changing body. A woman who celebrates the accumulation of her years and her wisdom. Who refuses to use her precious life energy disguising the changes in her body and life.

Imagine a woman who values the women in her life. A woman who sits in a circle of women. Who is reminded of the truth about herself when she forgets.

Imagine yourself as this woman.

I love you girls.

Finally, I almost forgot the most important person. Mom, thanks for always picking up the phone and listening when I needed someone to talk to or even when I had nothing to say, but needed to hear somebody. You have no idea how uplifting it was to be able to talk to you about my everyday nothings. I promise I won't call you everyday anymore. I love you Mom.

Nathan's Homecoming

2008-10-05T07:05:00.000-04:00

These pictures speak for themselves.

Garrett's Birthday Party

2008-09-20T18:34:00.000-04:00

Garrett Streaching
Jumping on the trampoline
Garrett getting ready to blow out his candles. I was trying to keep Joey from blowing it out (little stinker)
Garrett and I
Nathan, I think we have a little monkey on our hands.
Thank you so much for the sign and the flowers. You are the best husband ever and I can't wait until you are home and we are a complete family again.
Thanks for making it a great Birthday for Garrett and I, even though you couldn't be here.
This is when we first got to the gym.
Garrett's Spiderman Birthday Party.
This was getting warmed up and streached out. I will have lots more pictures tomorrow, but for now this will ahve to do. I love you and miss you so much. See you in 14 days.

Garrett's Birthday Morning

2008-09-20T09:21:00.000-04:00

HAPPY 3RD BIRTHDAY GARRETT!

Took some pictures for you this morning Nathan. You can tell Garrett is so excited that today is his Birthday.

This is Garrett holding a lizzard. He is not scared of anything.
There is the poor lizzard in the bug box. We let it go after about an hour of playing with it.
Abbey got into my plant on the porch. Dirt yumm.
She's cute even when she is covered in dirt.
Thanks Aunt Teresa for the awesome Batman car. Garrett really loves it.

Look out its Batman!

2008-09-11T22:11:00.000-04:00

New Fridge

2008-09-11T21:04:00.000-04:00

Well our fridge finally did in so I got a new one. Hope you like it Nathan. See you really really soon.

Kids Pictures

2008-08-23T18:38:00.000-04:00

More Blueberry Picking

2008-08-05T21:17:00.001-04:00

Garrett and I picking fresh blueberries. There is nothing like the taste of right off the vine blueberries!

Abbey loves watermelon
A LOT!

2008-08-05T16:31:00.000-04:00

Tricycle Riding

2008-07-25T18:33:00.000-04:00

Mystic Seaport and the Beach

2008-07-25T18:16:00.000-04:00

My beautiful Niece Kate

Garrett getting his picture drawn

At Aunt Rebecca's House

2008-07-25T18:05:00.000-04:00

Garrett picking rasberries.

At the butterfly garden Garrett actually got to hold a butterfly. He was very soft and gentle.

Philadelphia Trip

2008-07-25T17:39:00.001-04:00

Garrett playing in the grass outside Independence Hall
The Liberty Bell

Abbey in her Betsy Ross hat
Outside of Betsy Ross' House
Garrett and his cousin Ben
Inside of Independence Hall. Instead of Garrett listening to the history of the building he was playing cars.

Abbey's cousin Kate.

Visiting Mammaw

2008-07-25T17:29:00.000-04:00

The kids at the pool before we left.
Garrett and Abbey's Great Grandmother.
Garrett feeding Haily a treat!

Abbey's Ears Are Pierced!

2008-07-11T19:23:00.000-04:00

July Pictures

2008-07-11T13:54:00.000-04:00

Abbey's Crawling!
She can get about two moves in before she falls, but she is doing it.
Okay, these pictures were so cute I couldn't pick the one I liked the best.

Garrett is watching fireworks on the 4th. He and Abbey both loved them.

After fireworks we went to Angelas house for sparklers and a slumber party. Thanks Angela.
Best Friends

Allie Y, Garrett, and Allie D

If you look close you can see where Abbey's teeth are about to pop through.

Playing at the park

2008-07-09T18:01:00.000-04:00

Texas Trip

2008-07-03T23:12:00.000-04:00

We had such a wonderful time in Texas and as always we were sad to say goodbye. I would like to send out a big Thank You to everyone who helped out while I was down there. Trips like that would not be able to happen if I didn't have such a wonderful family. Love you guys.

Nathan,

Hope you enjoy these pictures of your little ones. I bet you can't wait to wrap your arms around Garrett and Abbey and give then a big Daddy Hug.

I Love You!

Thanks again Nathan for my beautiful roses on our Anniversary. You are such a wonderful husband and I love you with all my heart.

This is before we left.
Garrett felt the need to do a little repair work on Abbey's exasaucer. He is a funny guy, but the really funny thing is he didn't have any clothes on from the waist down. This picture captured just how excited Garrett was to ride on the airplane. He did an awesome job.

Abbey's Baptism.
Uncle Leif is Abbey's sponsor. He came and picked us up for Church that morning.
Nona helping Garrett put on his shoes. For some reason I find such comfort sitting on those stairs at your moms house. Nathan, remember the first time I came over there. We sat on those stairs and talked for at least two hours. It feels like yesterday.
We have a little fish on our hands. He is such a good and daring swimmer.I wish I could take the credit for getting him in the water, but that goes to Nona. What would we do without our summers in Texas?
This is what peanut was doing while Garrett was swimming.

These pictures are of our trip to the Houston Zoo. It had been years since I visited that place. Not much has changed in all that time.
We saw a little kids show and the shark was in it. The shark was supposed to be scary and all Garrett wanted to do was give it a hug.

Okay, Nathan you know that face Garrett gets when he is telling you about something? The one where he is really serious and nods his head. He was doing that in this picture while he was telling me all about the bear.

Garrett was so interested in these little Texas box turtles. He climed on the glass and staired at them for a long time. He is such a boy.The end of our long and hot day at the zoo.
Garrett is eating one of Nona's home grown tomato's while he is getting a sink bath. He has her wrapped around his little finger.
This was Garretts idea of a good time. He was naked and he insisted on wearing his floaties.

Playing a littel football with Uncle Leif and of course Brody.
Uncle Ben getting ready for the tractor ride.
AAH the Graham Boys in action.
If you look carefully Thomas is on the back of the tractor doing something goofy as usual. Garrett loved the tractor ride and wanted one every day after that.
See Abbey literally has Nona wrapped around her finger!

Could this kids eyes get any BIGGER? And she is pretty flexable too, yes that is her foot she has in her mouth.
This is Garrett playing on the track field. He had so much fun watching Tyler run track, and I was amazed at how good Tyler is at that sport. He has a gift.
Uncle Ralph giving Garrett a ride on his fast motorcycle.
Garrett was so attached to Uncle Ben.
I made Leif pose for the camrea. This is what I got.

Abbey's foot in her mouth again.

Our Trip to the Bay House

I was showing Garrett this little crab that was in the net.
This is the Spiderman fishing pole that Nona and Papa got Garrett for the trip down there.

Garrett in a shark cage at Moody Gardens.
This was his first encounter with the "Big Shark" he has been talking about for months. I guess Papa didn't get to ride it this trip.

Pretty much every day Garrett ends up stripping down to his underware. I guess he felt the need to do it this day while fishing.
Papa letting Garrett drive his boat.
Check out your brothers back muscles. He has really filled out since I saw him last.

Garrett walked around Uncle Ben and Aunt Neelys house and found all the little candy jars and got lots of yummy candy. I think he might ask to go back there again next year.
Garrett in his spiderman sunglasses.
Uncle Ben and Abbey watching a little TV after a hard day of work.

Abbey having her first bite of food.
Me and my Daddy.

Ugg Garrett will never smile for the camera.

Abbey in the bathtub. She is finally at the point where she can take a bath with big brother and they play together. It is so cute to watch.

Our Carpet

2008-06-29T23:07:00.000-04:00

Hey Nathan,

Here is our new bedroom carpet and a few things I did to the room. I hope you like the improvements. Texas pictures coming tomorrow!

Miss You,

Bon

I Love You Daddy

2008-06-15T09:58:00.000-04:00

Nathan,

We hope you have a great Fathers Day. We wish we could have woken up early and made you a big breakfast and spent the day with you, but talking through e-mail is all we get to do. Thanks for being such a great Daddy, even if you are away.

We Love You,
Garrett and Abbey (and Mom)

Walk a little slower, Daddy,
Said a little child so small.
I'm following in your footsteps
And I don't want to fall.
Sometimes your steps are very fast,
Sometimes they are hard to see;
So, walk a little slower, Daddy,
For you are leading me.
Someday when I'm all grown up,
You're what I want to be;
Then I will have a little child
Who'll want to follow me.
And I would want to lead just right,
And know that I was true;
So walk a little slower, Daddy,
For I must follow you.

Happy Fathers Day

2008-06-15T09:53:00.000-04:00

Happy Anniversary Nathan

2008-05-25T23:11:00.001-04:00

Happy Anniversary. I wish we could be together on our special day or perhaps even walking on the same sands that we got married on. One day I know we will get back there and be able to celebrate our Anniversary the way they should be celebrated. Thank you for being such a wonderful husband. I Love You!

Spring Is Finally Here

2008-05-25T10:04:00.001-04:00

Our Playgroup

2008-05-09T21:46:00.002-04:00

Michelle and I with Abbey and Adam.

My new haircut
Joey practicing for his real motorcycle.
Allie and Mackenzie
All the kids at playgroup

Some of our playgroup moms Christina, Michelle, Gail, and I.
Abbey feel asleep in her bumbo. She went from awake to asleep in about one minute.

Abbey is really starting to smile now. She is so ticklish and she thinks her Momma and Brother are so funny all the time.
Garrett giving Allie a ride.

April Pictures

2008-05-07T22:07:00.000-04:00

Nate,

Here are some new pictures for you. We miss you so much.

Love,

Your Family

Garrett and Joey at the beach. They are working hard on something.

My little snuggle bunny.

My not so snuggle bunny. It is rare that I get a picture with my fella these days. He is a wild one.

My Friend Angela.

Garrett pulling the wagon. He faught with all the kids for this wagon and he is basking in his glory here.

Garrett playing in the sand.

Lookout it's Batman. Garrett is so into his superhero pajamas. He would wear them all the time if I let him.

He was so cute with his little cape and all.

Abbey holding her head up. She lost all her hair.

Garrett found my gum and had two pieces in his mouth. He is pretty good about handing it to me when he is done chewing it.

My babies.
We went for a walk the other day and Garrett wanted to pull the wagon so bad. I finally let him and he did the entire walk. It was so cute because he has this little strut when he walks.

Every now and then Garrett would try and go off road with her. I guess he is teaching her to be tough.

Oh our adventures in the bathtub. Every other night Garrett gets a bath by himself so he gets colored water and bubbles. Well this night he decided he wanted to have fish in the water. Yes that is a package of goldfish in the tub.

And another funny story to tell when he is older. He went and got an entire box of bandaids and decided to decorate his legs. Usually when you see him with a bandaid he is not actually hurt. He will find the smallest cut and want a bandaid for it.

I actually got her smiling here.

Garrett really is sweet to her. He calls her princess all the time.

Gave the kids a kiss from you tonight. We love you.

Videos

2008-04-27T10:06:00.000-04:00

For Daddy

2008-04-27T09:18:00.000-04:00

Hi Nathan,

Here are some pictures of your babies. We have been keeping busy doing lots of fun stuff. We can't wait to see you again.

Love,

Bonny, Garrett and Abbey

This is Abbey's Bumbo. It is the best invention ever. She doesn't really like her pink round chair anymore. She is moving on to big girl stuff!

A stroll in the park. These two ride in style don't they?

Garrett and his friends Allie, Allie and Addison.

At the park

He has such a serious look on his face here.

If you look close at Abbey's right eye (your left) you can see her pink eye. This is also a good picture of how well she holds her head up now. Garrett is getting ready for baby boot camp with his push ups. Look out Nathan you are going to have some competition when you return.

See Nathan you are part of the family even when you are gone. Garrett is pushing around his Daddy Doll.

He was showing it to Allie and explaining where you were. You are still on a big bus.

Garrett is a big boy now. He is all the way potty trained for the day time. We have even been going outside next to trees when we are out there. Garrett gets a kick out of going potty outside. That is probably one of the best things about being a boy.

Daddy, I just thought you might want to see your little girl in her sweet slumber. She makes the sweetest faces when she is sleeping.

Flying kites at the beach. Garrett had the best time doing this.
He did want to trade Allie for her My Little Pony kite. He just wanted the horse one.

Garrett and Alexis brushing their teeth. I think it was because of her that he understood potty training so well. Thanks Tracy for all the help. We hope you and Ben are enjoying your time together.

Garrett's new Batman pajamas. He loves these so much. Almost as much as his Thomas the Train, Diego, and Dinosaur underwear. We are really into cartoon characters right now.

Garrett hanging out on the couch with his big boy underwear on. Of course he still has his night nights. I don't think we will be growing out of those anytime soon.

No fun without Daddy

2008-04-11T08:25:00.001-04:00

Nathan,

Here are some pictures of our new couches and Garrett's hair cut which I like much better. Hope you are doing okay.

Love You

Easter and our Goodbyes

2008-03-27T16:46:00.001-04:00

We said our goodbyes to Nathan last Sunday. It was a very hard and emotional day. I was in pieces all morning but by the time I met Nathan at work I was able to hold myself toghether. I knew if I was a ball of tears that it would be even harder for Nathan to leave us so I wasen't. It was hard, especially the last few moments with him. Nathan said the last image he had was of us standing back waving with smiles on our faces as the busses pulled away. I recieved one e-mail from him while he was in Kuwait. He had a long journey from North Carolina to Ramadi. He is still in transit somewhere. He said the time change was a hard adjustment and that it was really hot. I will keep everyone posted as I hear more. Thanks for keeping us in your prayers.

I know you can hardly see, but his is Nathan getting on the bus.

This was just seconds before we said goodbye. As soon as the buses arrived everything went really fast. I took only about ten minutes to get everyone on the bus and for it to pull away.

I was glad it wasen't a long process.

This was Garretts last hug from Daddy. It looks like Nathan is about to fall apart.

This was while we waited for the buses to get there. It was about a two hour wait that seemed like forever.
Garrett passed the time by playing with other kids there.

Dropping Nathan off at work. He got there at around 9:00 and I came back at 11:00 and waited until 2:00 when the buses got there.

Easter a day Early.

Garrett gave Abbey his bunny. What a sweet big brother.

We wrote "We will miss you Daddy" in Garretts easter sidewalk chalk.

You can really see Abbey's dimple here.

2008-03-22T13:25:00.000-04:00

Well these are some of the last pictures you will see of our complete family since Nathan is leaving for Iraq again tomorrow. I have to say the last two weeks have not been fun. The anticipation of him leaving is just killing me. Today I got the knot in my stomach that I know won't go away for a few days. I think I have finally faced the fact that he is actually going. There isn't going to be a miracle and he will suddnenly get to stay (like I have been hoping for). We have both been trying our hardest to prepare Garrett for his daddy leaving. I really think that watching the busses drive away is when it is going to click for Garrett that daddy is gone. He says "Dadda work" alot which is what we have been telling him. (Daddy is going to go to work for a long time), but I don't think he truly gets it yet.

We celebrated Easter this morning since tomorrow will be a crazy day. Garrett and Abbey both got an Easter basket from the Easter Bunny. Garrett loved his sidewalk chalk and we went out this morning to write on the driveway. It was a good last morning together.

I will keep everyone posted on how Nathan is doing. I will be posting more often since this is how Nathan can watch our kids grow. Thank you all for your thoughts and prayers and enjoy the pictures.

Thanks Nona for the Easter Playdough. Garrett has played with it at least twice a day EVERYDAY.

I catch Garrett doing this every now and then. There must be something fun about putting his feet on his sisters head. He is starting the torture early.

This is Garrett looking at me with his binoculers. He walks around and says "I see you".
The tickle monster.

Abbey's first bottle. It was still my milk, but it gave Nathan and her a chance to bond.

Our Family Pictures

2008-03-16T10:26:00.000-04:00

This is my favorite picture of Abbey.

Our Night Away and More

2008-02-27T14:54:00.000-05:00

We want to thank our friends Marcelle and Brad for watching our sick child for the night so we could go to the 1/9 Mess Night. It really was a great night. I was so glad I was able to see what a mess night is all about. It was also nice for Nathan and I to get away for one night before he leaves.

Abbey got all dolled up for the party!

Our babysitter! HaHa. We had a little party in the hotel lobby. This is our friend Angie with the little Adam. Funny Huh?

These two were the life of the party. It wouldn't have been as fun without Angela there!
Look out Herbal Essence.

I think Abbey was drawn to her daddy that night. She was only satisfied if he held her. Who wouldn't be though? Nathan looks so handsome in his blues.

A few of my friends. Thank goodness we have each other. That is key when you are a military spouse.

My Angel

Garrett was giving Abbey kisses on the head with this bear.

This is usually how she falls asleep with her daddy. It is so funny. She hold on to him like she is saying don't you dare put me down.
Thanks Nona for the cute outfit.
Garrett had been sick for a while now. You can tell by his color he is not quite over it yet.

Eating with our friend Joey at Olive Garden.
Garrett got some playdough (his favorite thing) for staying at a friends house and for being sick. He plays with it at least once a day.

2008-02-18T12:14:00.000-05:00

Abbey's First Month

2008-02-18T10:52:00.001-05:00

Well we made it through the first month with Abbey. Garrett is still so good with her. The other day he did try to put his finger in her eye, but not in a mean way. I just have to watch how excited he get around her because he can get a little rough. Having two kids has kept me busy, and I have found that I like leaving the house more than staying home. If I stay home all day Garrett gets stir crazy and our home gets destroyed faster than I can clean.

Nathan is getting ready to leave for Ramadi, Iraq. We are down to our last month together and I am ready for it to start so it will be done. This should be our last deployment EVER! We are crossing our fingers that we get orders for Quantico, VA when he returns, but staying here is our second choice. If only there was a big Marine base in Texas. We miss the family, but we will be down to visit sometime after Nathan leaves so the extended family can meet Abbey. We hope to get her baptised at Salem Lutheran Church while we are there. We will also be heading up to visit Nathan's Grandmother and Aunt in Maryland and then on up to Connecticut to visit my sister. We are also looking forward to having a visit from my sister Teresa and her kiddos. It should be a fun filled summer of traveling and lazy days at the beach with my girlfriends (can't wait Anglea, Gail, Michelle, Christina, Mandy, Jessica and anyone else who wants to join us).

Enjoy the pictures!

Garrett wouldn't wake up. We tried everything, but he was just pooped.
Abbey making a funny face. She is getting chunky.

HAPPY VALENTINES DAY

He is such a big help. He mainly puts her pacifier in her mouth and brings me his and her diapers.

Say Cheese!

I am going to have to work on my muscles so I can do things like this while Daddy is away. Look out gym here I come.

Garrett was helping make a mess. He rearranged the spices.
Thank you Wilonsky Family for the gifts. It was like a small Christmas for Garrett.

Abbey is so sweet while she sleeps.

Garrett is getting better and better at the potty training. He wants to be just like daddy.

Having some fun time in the crib before night night time.

My Babies!

Abbey really lets me know when she wants me.

This was after her first real bath.

Her first bath.

Enjoying these moments because they don't last long.

2008-01-25T16:25:00.000-05:00

Abbey Marie Rollins

2008-01-23T20:16:00.000-05:00

Abbey Marie Rollins

January 16, 2008

12:02am

7lbs 5oz 19in

Saying goodbye to the hospital.

Her first car ride.

Thank You for all the beautiful flowers!

A family of four now.

Garrett loves to hold Abbey.
And he gives her about a 100 kisses a day!
Big Brother Little Sister

Goodbye to Grammy and Poppy.
I just love this picture. It is one of my favorites so far.

Garrett and Daddy working hard on the lincoln logs.

More pictures coming tomorrow. It's bedtime now.

Christmas Break

2008-01-08T10:25:00.000-05:00

Christmas Eve
This was Garretts favorite toy. He plays with his train everyday.
We let him open his train on Christmas Eve so he would have plenty of time to play with it. He played for 5 hours before we finally made him go to bed.
In New Bern at the birth place of Pepsi.
Garretts Tonka truck from Nana. He is taking his dino for a spin.
Garrett playing with is playdough.
Christmas Morning.

Cape Hatteras. I forgot Garrett's shoes so he wore his rubber boots all day.
Nathan and his mom.
Garrett on is first ferry ride.
Waiting for the ferry with Uncle Tyler.

Okracoke Lighthouse.
Cape Hatteras Lighthouse.
Bodie Lighthouse.
Tyler keeping Garrett entertained. It wasn't very hard for those two to get along.

38 Weeks Pregnant.
Saying Goodbye to Nathan's family.
It's nice to have an uncle who doesn't mind getting in the freezing cold water and playing with a two year old.

Our Hard Work

2007-12-21T13:21:00.000-05:00

We have been very busy lately trying to prepare for our new arrival in January. I know I haven't posted in forever but I got a one track mind when I started these projects. Garrett is growing so fast that he outgrew his crib and is now in a twin size bed. He loves sleeping in there and so far we haven't had any difficulties with the transition. His room looks like a big boy room instead of baby room. Every time I walk in there it reminds me of how fast time goes by.

Working on a nursery for a little girl has been so fun for me. I thought I would share what our daughters room is looking like so far.There are a few finishing touches that need to be completed. I am in the process of looking for the perfect baskets for her book shelf. Until then it looks a little cluttered.

New Name To Be Announced Upon Birth.

Our playgroup Christmas party. We always say we are going to get a picture of the kids together and it never happens. This is as good as it gets.

Garrett loves Santa this year. I think he especially liked that he got a big bag of candy after he sat in his lap. Notice he is pointing to the candy.

Halloween, Thanksgiving and Beyond

2007-12-21T12:03:00.000-05:00

At Aunt Ginas HouseGarrett's Great Grandmother

Doing Man Stuff

Ruth is teaching Garrett and Jack how to eat mint. It was growing wild in Rebeccas yard. She had all different flavors like chocolate mint, lemon mint, and regular mint.

Garrett loves to help us do anything. He was especially excited to help start the fire.
Quality time after Nathan came home from Mojave Viper.

At the science museum
Garrett was a cute little skunk for Halloween. He says "nunk" for skunk.
He was all about the trick or treating. He was the first at every door.

This is at Dinosaur Park. Garrett loved looking at all the huge dinosaurs.

Happy Thanksgiving. I really enjoyed all the good food and so did Garrett!

Garrett acting like a tiny baby. He is getting use to all the pink around now.Making christmas cookies.
We made a mess!
Helping me decorate the tree.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Missing Daddy

2007-10-21T22:51:00.000-04:00

September Fun!

2007-10-07T09:39:00.000-04:00

We took a hayride to pick some pumpkins at Mikes Farm. Garrett had so much fun that day.
They had a old tractor show that day and Garrett got to sit on some old tractors.
My sweet little man with the pumpkin he picked out.
Looking for his pumpkin.
He found the one he wanted.
HAPPY FALL!

Garrett and his Daddy. They are really attached.
Momma and Garrett.
Garrett is ready to go on a real tractor ride.

This was a huge tractor. The guy even started it up just for Garrett.

Garrett working on his project at craft class.
He picked out all the parts for his little guy.
The clay was his favorite project that day. Can you tell? He made a bowl and we put his initials on the inside.

September Birthdays!

2007-09-23T08:53:00.000-04:00

We had a yard sale on Saturday. What a way to spend my Birthday huh? Michelle was being the mother hen to all the babies.

Garrett had two Birthday parties. This was his second with with all his friends.

Sharing his new cars with his friends.

This cake was really yummy.

Garrett and Allie after a hard afternoon of partying.

Allie brought him most of his presents. I'm sure she had to use a lot of discipline to not open them on her way over. But she helped once they got there.

This is our first party that Daddy celebrated with us.

Happy Birthday to me!

Daddy and Garrett played with his new toys.

Garrett got bath foam from us. He loves it!

It was really nice celebrating our Birthdays together.

Garrett couldn't wait to get a little taste.

Garrett and Nathan at the playground.

Garrett covered Nathan with stickers.

He didn't realize this one was on his face for a long time.

We gave Garrett this present early. He loved it so much he hid a green crayon and colored on our wall.

I love his face here.

Here is a sneak peek of Garrett's Halloween costume. He loves wearing this. He wore it all the way down to the park and got mad when we took it off.

Garrett loves to sit on the counters and help us cook.

Garrett playing in the rain. The picture is pretty self explanatory.

Hanging out one morning.

Garrett loved the fox at this restaurant.

Garrett and his friend Thomas riding the horse together.

After a hard morning of play Garrett settled in the laundry basked to watch a little cartoons.

Garrett riding his toy down the driveway.

Taking it back for another go round. And again, and again, and again, and again!

Our Baby Girl!

2007-08-14T13:07:00.000-04:00

This is our baby GIRL!
Here she is looking at us.

Our Summer Vacation

2007-08-05T09:31:00.000-04:00

Garrett loves watermelon

He was eating it out of Papa Jays hands.

Garrett and his Nan

Garrett and his Great Grandma

Garrett and his Grammy. He likes to give her a hard time.

My sister.

This is Garrett's cousin Jack. They loved this glass elephant in the cabinet.

Garrett and his cousins Jack and Ruth. I love his smile here.

One of the few pictures we got together.

I am so lucky to have such great sisters.

Garrett's cousins Kate and Ruth.

Nathan and Garrett in San Antonio

The Alamo

Shamu at Sea World

Best Friends!

Garrett got up one morning wanted to build a fort in his room.

This rocking horse was sent up here all the way from Texas. It was given to him by his Late Aunt Lucy.

Garrett loves this rocking horse so much. He climbs up on it and rocks while he yells WEEEEEEE.

He wanted his night night to have a ride too.

When I get the camera out this is how Garrett smiles at us. He is not camera shy.

Summer Fun!

2007-07-24T17:42:00.000-04:00

These pictures were all taken before our trip to Texas. Those pictures are coming up next. We finally set up our computer to take all these big pictures so now I can start updating our blog again.

Garrett getting into my purse
Garrett and Thomas taking a bath after a day at the zoo.

Garrett loved this turtle.

Boys are so fun.

Garrett is getting ready for his little sister to come.

Garrett loves babies. He is giving Ruby a kiss. He is such a sweet boy.

Having some yummie watermelon. I think he looks like his Uncle Tyler here.

Garrett and Allie at the pool.