The Sydnor Star

Can you feel the love?

2012-02-12T10:12:00.002-08:00

Happy (early) Valentine's Day from our little loves!

Like your vegetables?

2012-02-12T10:04:00.001-08:00

Henry LOVES his!

Ready for the game!

2012-02-05T10:10:00.001-08:00

Snowy day

2012-01-23T11:26:00.001-08:00

It was such a surprise to wake up to a beautiful snow covered campus Sunday morning. While Henry napped and Daddy worked on grades and comments, Sophia and I enjoyed our walk to the dining hall.

6 months with our Henry!

2012-01-19T10:24:00.001-08:00

Our 6 month old!

Henry has been a busy little guy this month. He celebrated his first Christmas and New Year's and enjoyed seeing lots of family and friends. Henry really started eating and so far he hasn't met a food he didn't like...except maybe, peas. Although, if you mix peas with something fruity he will gobble them right up! Henry has almost mastered sitting up by himself and he loves to stand up. The jumping seat is his favorite thing and I really think he could jump for hours! Henry is so quick and will grab everything. He also does the "roll and scoot" maneuver to get a toy or anything else he wants. He has discovered his toes and is the cutest thing chewing on them. Henry adores Sophia and I just love the way he looks at her. Sophia is so kind to her little brother and is such a big helper. Henry was the only member of our family who did not fall victim to the stomach bug a couple of weeks of ago. Raph, Sophia, and I were so ill but Henry held strong...thank goodness! Henry is still toothless but that's okay with me. I just love his little gummy smile. Happy 6 months, little man! We love you!

Hugs for Henry.

Goin' on a field trip...

2012-01-18T12:19:00.000-08:00

Wednesday was field trip day at OCP so it was off to the library and Mario's! The kids had fun at the library hearing stories and singing songs with Ms. Elizabeth.

Craft time! Sophia and her mittens.

Little brothers, Henry and Eric, along for the ride.

After the library, we headed over to Mario's for a tour, a lesson in pizza making, and some lunch. Sophia, Jaxon, and Xander waiting for our tour...

Listening to our tour guide...

Squishing some pizza dough.

Throwing the dough!

This concludes the picture portion of this post. After this shot, the (very hungry) kids headed back to their seats where they were able to put toppings on their pizzas and eat lunch. Henry was ready for his lunch too so I was a busy mama. Sophia really enjoyed the field trip and it was fun being with her and all of her preschool buddies for the day. Thanks to Em for organizing the trip!

Our Christmas...

2012-01-01T12:20:00.001-08:00

Our first Christmas as a family of four. Here are some of the highlights...

Our peacock tree.

Doodle, our elf.

Fun with cousins at the family Christmas party. Thanks to Kate, Troy, and Katie for hosting this year!

Grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren.

The rest of the gang.

Raph being on Christmas break for a couple of weeks is such a treat.

Henry giggling with daddy.

My sweet Arlene stopped by for a visit and to get some snuggles from Sophia and Henry.

The day before Christmas Eve we traveled to Lynchburg to celebrate with the Sydnors. Tpa catching up with his great-grandson.

Sophia loves Jody.

Thanks, Tpa for the beautiful doll!

Marbles!

Catching up with cousin Emily.

Bebe and Henry getting acquainted.

Aunt JoJo's kitchen helpers.

Our excited boy!

Christmas Eve is here...

Grammy and Pop ready to host us for Christmas Eve.

Opening Christmas pajamas from DD.

Sophia had a ball playing with these sweet kids at Bett's Christmas Eve party.

Do you think this girl is excited! Heading to bed and very ready for Santa!

Early Christmas morning...our girl was running down those stairs!

The sleepy but excited crowd.

Pop assisting Sophia on her new balance bike from Santa!

Yay for Christmas! Henry clearly likes his new wagon.

Stockings!

Pop opening the tie that we made for him. We also made matching ties for Raph and DD with Sophia and Henry's hand prints. Sophia's hand is the Santa and Henry's hand is his hat. Many thanks to a wonderful elf, my good friend Tracey, for helping to make these gifts possible!

Christmas hugs.

The best gits of all...

After an action packed morning at G and P's, we got dressed and headed to DD's for Christmas breakfast.

And, more presents!

Henry caught up on his sleep while we were at DDs.

Then it was off to church to keep the nursery during the service. Henry's still sleeping!

We headed back home and after her nap Sophia found her stocking from Santa.

Opening her jewelry box from us.

And, Sophia got her very first pair of five fingers from Daddy. Henry was on nap number two of the day so we opened his presents the next morning.

Then it was onto Granny Herndon's for a yummy Christmas dinner.

Sophia had so much fun playing with her cousin Gabriel.

Dinnertime!

Fun at Granny's Christmas night. Sophia was taking lots of pictures with her new camera!

The next morning Sophia helping Henry with his stocking.

This is the look that Henry gives his big sister.

Sophia was so excited about finding oranges in the toe of the stockings!

It was an exciting Christmas season! Looking forward to this new year and all the adventures it has in store for us!

Christmas preview...

2011-12-28T12:20:00.001-08:00

The Sydnors had a wonderful Christmas! I'm still compiling all of my pictures but I had to share this one of our babes. Many more to come!

Five months with Henry

2011-12-19T10:20:00.001-08:00

Happy 5 months with our boy!

This photo shoot was a little challenging because Henry was very distracted by his sticker...at one point he pulled it off and...

started eating it! Such is life these days!

Henry rolled over for this picture.

I still managed to capture my sweet, smiley boy!

Henry is five months today and he continues to be such a happy and loveable guy! This month he really started moving - Henry is rolling over all the time and loving his jumpy seat. We also started rice cereal and sweet potatoes to try to keep up with his ever growing stomach which never seems to stay full! We have had a few sleep challenges with Henry but overall he is doing pretty well. Henry loves chewing on any and everything he grasps and he has the best little giggle. Love this boy!

Christmas pajamas. Thanks, Grammy!

Jumping bean.

Henry's favorite spot to be is anywhere near his big sister.

My cutie pies.

I can hardly wait for Christmas morning with these two!

Sophia's Christmas performance at OCP

2011-12-18T03:49:00.000-08:00

Handmade cards on the gifts for the parents. Inside was a beautiful ornament made with the children's hand prints.

I loved the decorations on the refreshment table. Look who's riding on the reindeer!

Our 10 year anniversary.

Sophia's fan club.

The performers take to the stage and put on their antlers and noses.

Jingle Bells

After the show, Grammy and Pop surprised Sophia with flowers.

Time for the Secret Santa gift exchange. Sophia giving Sierra her gift.

Tommy giving Sophia a princess notebook set - Sophia loves it!

Sweet kiddos post performance.

Ms. Jeanette and Sophia

Taking our little star home.

What better way for Raph and I to celebrate our ten year wedding anniversary then seeing Sophia in her first performance! The children were so cute singing their Christmas songs and acting out a poem. Sophia had lots of fans in attendance and we were so proud of our little performer.

Christmas at Woodberry

2011-12-15T11:21:00.001-08:00

Dressed and ready to head to the Residence for the annual children's Christmas party.

Sitting with her buddies, Sophia is ready to hear "Twas the Night Before Christmas" read by Mrs. Campbell.

Then Santa made his appearance.

Sophia was a little anxious about seeing Santa but she mustered up the courage to talk to him while Daddy held her.

Our sweet, brave girl.

Henry's first visit with Santa. He is checking out the guy in the red suit.

After the party, Sophia danced to some Christmas tunes while we enjoyed time as a family.

The Nutcracker

2011-12-13T06:43:00.001-08:00

Heading to The Nutcracker with my girl on Saturday afternoon.

Sophia was very excited to see her first ballet.

Enjoying a cupcake during intermission.

With our sweet friend and star of the show, Cordelia Hogan, who danced the role of Clara. Sophia was in awe of Cordelia's amazing performance.

Posing with the Stakem boys after the show.

It was such a treat taking Sophia to see The Nutcracker and I hope this will become a holiday tradition for us. Sophia loved the show and I get teary eyed thinking about how magical this performance was for her. She was captivated by the story, the costumes, and the dancers. It was a perfect afternoon with my little girl.

Baking with Grammy

2011-12-13T05:55:00.000-08:00

Let the baking begin!

Look at that sweet smile...

I have great memories of baking cookies with my grandmother and I love that Sophia and my Mom have started this tradition! Sophia had a sleepover with Grammy and Pop Friday night and Sophia was up before 6:00 Saturday morning asking Mom if it was time to bake the gingerbread men. I think she was just a little excited! Mom, thanks for making memories with our girl. Sophia had a blast!

Grammy's birthday celebration

2011-12-12T10:44:00.001-08:00

We had a great time celebrating Mom's birthday at Granny Herndon's on Friday night! Grammy and her little love bugs!

Ready to toast the birthday girl with sparkling cider, of course!

After dinner it was time for cake!

Singing to the birthday girl...

DD getting some snuggles from Henry.

Sophia giving Grammy her special drawing.

Presents!

Henry and Grammy with her new charm for her bracelet.

It was a great evening and that night Sophia had a sleepover at Grammy and Pop's. Stay tuned for pictures of the gingerbread men Grammy and Sophia baked the next morning...

Play date with Peyton

2011-12-11T18:01:00.000-08:00

Fun with the ExerSaucer...

Snuggles...

Smiles...

Henry and I enjoyed having Peyton over last week while the big kids were at school and Peyton's Mom, Shannon, was volunteering at the OCP. These two are so sweet! I love the way Henry is looking at his buddy...

He likes it, he really likes it!

2011-12-01T07:50:00.000-08:00

Henry's first taste of rice cereal...

Yum!

Over the weekend, we had a couple of rough nights with Henry. He was a little bit off his schedule with all of our traveling around but we thought we may give rice cereal a try to help sustain him a little longer during the night. So on Monday we gave it a shot and Henry gobbled the cereal down! We have given him a little bit everyday since and our boy is back to sleeping through the night. How did he get to be so big, so fast?

Our Thanksgiving

2011-11-30T10:30:00.000-08:00

Henry enjoying his first Thanksgiving!

little turkey

Having fun.

My little kitchen assistant.

We had a quiet Thanksgiving morning at the Sydnor house. We watched the parade, played, Henry napped, and Sophia and I did some baking.

Then it was off to my Great-Aunt Bett's house for our first Thanksgiving meal.

Donna and Mom with the babes.

Sophia is ready!

Love these two!

After the very tasty meal, my cousin Troy was very nice to play outside with Sophia. Sophia really enjoyed being with Troy and told me that the hammock was just for little kids...like Troy. ;)

Getting a squeeze from cousin Kate.

Tryptophan?

After Bett's we ran home to get freshened up and then it was off to my cousin Sarah's house for our 2nd Thanksgiving meal.

Henry getting some love from Uncle Van and Aunt Robin.

Grammy and Henry

Sophia and Will

Learning how to play UNO.

Four generations

What we are most thankful for...our two little turkeys at the end of a very fun, busy Thanksgiving Day.

And, the fun continues! I was so excited to see my best friends Friday night. I haven't had these two in the same room since Annie's wedding! We had a great evening at The Light Well hearing Jesse play but I do hope our next visit will be a little longer. Are we still thinking St. Patrick's Day, ladies?!

My other parents. We missed Mom and Dad who were kind enough to watch Sophia and Henry so we could go out. Thanks, G and P!

The talented Jesse Harper.

It's a tradition to put up our tree over the Thanksgiving break and we got ours up in a record time thanks to Grammy, DD, and a certain little helper!

Sophia admiring the tree.

Henry trying out his Christmas pjs.

Thanksgiving festivities concluded with a trip to Lynchburg. Sophia giving Tpa a belated 91st birthday hug!

Sydnor men

Sweet cousins. These two had so much fun playing together.

Anne-Gardner and Aunt JoJo getting good looks at Henry.

It was a wonderful Thanksgiving break getting to see many family and friends. We have so much to be thankful for...

Sharp dressed man

2011-11-22T17:48:00.001-08:00

Henry after a long, hard day at the office. Ha! Thanks to Laura Somerville for making our little guy this cute onesie!

Retro

2011-11-19T12:19:00.001-08:00

Sophia rockin' my old IZOD pants, circa 1982 or 83, thanks to my Mom who kept everything I ever owned.

Then Sophia hopped on her favorite riding toy that was mine when I was a child. I probably rode this bike in these very pants...crazy, huh? This post is for you, Mom! ;)

Four months with Henry

2011-11-19T10:17:00.001-08:00

Our sweet, happy boy on his 4 month birthday.

At four months, Henry is weighing in at just under 17 pounds! He is snugly and smiley and we just love him to pieces. In the past month, Henry has rolled over (front to back) four times and mastered his Bumbo seat. We also started putting him in the ExerSaucer, which we call his office, and he loves it! He has become a little drooly and puts everything in his mouth. Henry loves chewing on his hands and "talking" at the top of his lungs! Henry ADORES Sophia and is her biggest fan. He can't take his eyes off of her when she is in the room.

Both, Sophia and Henry, had their check-ups yesterday (Thanks, Pop for your assistance!) and they both got glowing reports. Raph and I are so thankful to have such beautiful and healthy children!

Here are some more pics of our growing boy...

This look cracks me up!

Watching Sophia dance around the living room...

Hard at work.

It looks like they are sharing secrets already...

Ready to ride.

Being silly with Mama.

GoooTigers! Beat EHS!

2011-11-13T18:36:00.001-08:00

We've got spirit! Sophia and Henry sporting their tiger gear.

Love this little tiger...

Weee! Sophia turns 3!

2011-11-13T12:39:00.001-08:00

The birthday girl having breakfast in bed!

Opening the photo book that we made especially for our girl.

It's good to be 3!

Later that morning, Sophia coloring at school. I was the parent volunteer and it was great being with the birthday girl. Thank you, Em for watching Henry for the early part of the morning.

During lunch, Raph picked up Henry from Em's and came to school to surprise Sophia!

Then Grammy Gram made a surprise visit! Sophia loved having so many guests for lunch!

Mrs. Jeanette and Sophia's preschool buddies.

Henry, the party animal.

Mrs. Jeanette gave Sophia a fun princess book and game.

After lunch, we invited the older preschool class over to join us for cupcakes and fruit. Sophia asked for strawberry cupcakes with pink frosting!

Happy birthday to our sweet Sophia!

Three years have gone by in a flash. Sophia brings so much joy to our lives and we are proud of the little person she has become. A few days before her birthday Sophia and I were chatting and she said, "Mama, when I grow up I am going to be a chef, a dancer, and Spider Man...and I'm going to chew gum." Love our big 3 year old!

Sophia's birthday dinner party

2011-11-13T11:52:00.001-08:00

With our birthday girl.

Sophia asked for a "Dora the Explorer" birthday.

Ready for the party!

Time for dinner.

Then it was time for presents. Our girl is pro at opening cards and presents!

Look at that face! So excited...

Singing to our girl...

Party people.

Sophia ended the night by entertaining the crowd with some singing and dancing.

We had a fun time celebrating Sophia's birthday with the Supper Club members last Tuesday at our house. Sophia chose the dinner menu and requested a Dora themed cake. She opened gifts and sang and danced the night away!

Let the celebration begin...

2011-11-07T11:20:00.000-08:00

Our big girl ready for a fun day with Grammy and Pop!

Build-A-Bear...or is it Build-A-Giraffe? That's what Sophia wanted to make!

Choosing a sound for her giraffe...Sophia chose, "I love you."

Bringing the giraffe to life.

Lollipop is born!

Bath time.

Getting Lollipop dressed in a fun, festive birthday outfit.

One happy customer.

Thanks, Grammy and Pop!

The trio after a fun day!

Sophia really got "birth week" started off on the right foot! Grammy and Pop took Sophia to church, lunch, and to the mall for a photo shoot, shopping, and Build-A-Bear. The birthday girl had a blast and she is so proud of her new pal, Lollipop! Thanks, G and P for treating our girl to a special day!

HallOween with a scary witch and black cat...

2011-11-01T17:37:00.000-07:00

Time to party!

Fun and games at the WFS children's Halloween party.

Pass the pumpkin...

All the kiddos...

Ready for Toddler Trick-or-Treating around all of the offices in the Walker Building.

Peek-a-BOO!

Katherine and her cute firehouse dog.

Captain Hook and Tinkerbell.

A group shot of all the little ones minus Henry who was taking a cat nap in the Baby Bjorn...

The candy stop by the Financial Aid office...it was a scary sign for all of the parents!!

The good and scary witches head to the Headmaster's office .

We ran into another witch!

Treats from Tracey.

The lovely ladies of the Student Store.

After Trick-or-Treating we stopped by to see Daddy and to grab some lunch.

Look who's awake!

After naps we headed into town. Our first stop was Grammy and Pop's house where we all got lots of treats!

Sibling snuggles! (Henry decided to spend the rest of the evening as a pumpkin.)

Our next stop was Jean's house...and we got to visit with lots of our buddies!

Our last stop was to see our cousins. Cassidy and Miles (and friend, Helen) were getting ready to hand out candy. (By this point, little Henry was taking another nap.)

Posing with Emmie - Emmie and I spent every Halloween together when we were kids. Great memories with this girl!

Then it was back to the Forest for one last round of Trick-or Treating. Raph took Sophia around while Henry and I passed out candy to all the ghosts and goblins. It was an action packed, busy day but oh so much fun!

Halloween fun at OCP

2011-10-31T11:15:00.001-07:00

On Wednesday, Sophia dressed and ready for orange and black day at OCP.

Mrs. Jeanette had a special treat for the kids. Everyone is excited to decorate their Halloween cookies.

Hard at work...

Tommy is ready!

On Thursday, our girl heading to school for the Halloween party!

Posing with sweet Mrs. Jeanette.

The scary witch and the train conductor.

Posing with Glenda and her wand.

Henry along for the ride!

Happy Halloween!

It was an exciting week at preschool with all of the Halloween festivities! The children enjoyed orange and black day on Wednesday and I had fun hosting (with the help of Em and Shannon!) the OCP Halloween party on Thursday. It was a busy week...more posts coming soon from our festivities at WFS!

Pumpkins!

2011-10-31T10:26:00.000-07:00

Hugs before getting ready for our field trip to the pumpkin patch!

Thanks, Shannon for passing along these cute overalls. A perfect outfit for a day at the patch!

We're here!

Sophia and her good buddies, Sierra and Tommy.

Sophia loved the hay ride!

Posing with Mrs. Sabrina and her nephew, Brody.

Sophia found her perfect pumpkin!

An Orange Cooperative Preschool group shot.

My sweet, little pumpkin.

That evening, we headed to DD's for dinner and our annual pumpkin carving! The girls all wore matching Crocs for the occasion!

With our pumpkins.

Carving time!

Our Jack-O-Lanterns!

Last Tuesday we had a fun time at the pumpkin patch with Sophia's class from OCP. The weather was perfect and the kids especially loved the hay ride and playing on the playground. Henry, being just 3 months old, did not enjoy the patch as much as the big kids but he was a pretty good sport. Later that evening, Sophia carved up her perfect pumpkin at DD's!

A perfect weekend...

2011-10-24T11:12:00.000-07:00

My loves.
Henry testing out the Bumbo seat for the first time.

This girl loves to color. This picture was for Grammy and Pop.

Ready to bake our Halloween cookies!

Our finished product.

Love Canon

Snuggles with Kate at Jefferson Vineyard.

Snuggles with Chloe.

Our picnic.

Fun with Aunt Kate.

Snuggling..
coloring...
shopping...
reading...
baking...
listening to music...
tasting wine...
hanging with friends...
enjoying the fall weather...
all with my family. It was a perfect weekend.

3 months with Henry

2011-10-19T13:04:00.000-07:00

Getting sleepy...

Happy 3 month birthday, baby Henry!

Our little man is growing like a weed. Henry continues to love to eat and snuggle. At three months, Henry is such a happy boy and always greets us with the most precious, gummy smile. He is really "talking" these days and we get a kick out of how expressive he is during our "conversations". Henry is a great sleeper and has been sleeping about 8 hours a night - a true gift to his Mama and Dad. He loves to look at his hands and chew on them. A few times he has found his thumb and he seemed very pleased with that! The jury is still out on what color eyes our boy is going to have. Currently, he is still sporting his baby blues but we wonder if they are going to turn brown like his big sister's. Sophia is still wild about her baby brother and the feelings are mutual! Henry tracks Sophia's every move and smiles so big when she's talking to him or hugging him to pieces. Henry loves it when Sophia loves on him and seeing them together fills my heart with joy. It is still hard to believe sometimes that I am a mom to two children. My life has never felt so full and I know it will just keep getting better!

It's fall at the Forest...

2011-10-17T10:15:00.000-07:00

Our little guy at his first cider pressing.

Jim showing Sophia and Parker how the cider press works.

Brenden showing us how it's done!

Making cider

Cindy getting some snuggles with the newest baby on campus, Eric Navitsky.

Henry taking a little snooze.

Sophia and Sierra had a great time swinging!

Down the slide!

We always look forward to the Reid's annual cider pressing in October. The weather was perfect, the cider was delicious, and the company was great! Thank you, Jim and Cindy!

Photos by Jess...

2011-10-13T06:26:00.000-07:00

My talented cousin-in-law took these great shots during the Apple Harvest/cabin weekend. Thank you, Jess! I love all the pictures and we loved seeing you and your sweet family last weekend. xoxo

Our Haunted House

2011-10-12T18:30:00.000-07:00

We decided to put together our Halloween haunted gingerbread house Sunday afternoon. Sophia really enjoyed taste testing all of the treats and we had some good laughs watching our house collapse a couple of times...gingerbread house construction is not my forte but spending time with my girl is priceless!

Apple Harvest

2011-10-09T12:17:00.000-07:00

Henry meeting his cousin Jess and getting ready for his first apple festival.

Jess and Adam reading to Sophia. On the way to the cabin Sophia said, "I can't wait to see my cousins!"

Henry's ready!

Apple harvest here we come!

There were lots of pumpkins.

My littlest pumpkin.

Time for some cold, refreshing apple cider. Thanks, Pop!

Picking our apples.

After some shopping, taking pictures, apple picking, and apple butter doughnut tasting we headed back to the cabin to rest and eat some yummy chicken chili....and love on baby Henry!

Daddy's here! Raph was able to join us after he finished teaching his classes for the day.

Sophia modeling her new, all-in-one, tiger hat, scarf, and mittens for Daddy. Thanks, Grammy Gram!

Ready to head back to the festival for more fun.

Sophia loved climbing on the hay...

dancing to the blue grass music...

and throwing rocks into the creek.

Grammy giving Sophia a piggy back ride back to the cabin.

Henry and Evelyn, just eight days a part, the youngest ones at the cabin this year.

Having fun on the porch.

This girl had a blast and she slept all the way home...

Going to the Graves' Mountain Lodge Apple Harvest has become my favorite fall tradition. We love visiting with our cousins at the cabin and walking over to the festival to take in the activities and taste all the yummy apple treats. The weather was perfect and we all had so much fun! We are already looking forward to next year!

Dinner and a movie...

2011-10-03T10:29:00.000-07:00

Enjoying a yummy spaghetti dinner.

Then it was movie time! Cinderella was the film of choice!

Popcorn!

Sophia loved the show!

Sweet boy

The next morning - Sophia making Henry smile!

Posing with her puppet show.

Thanks G and P for a fun filled weekend!

Raph was in Philadelphia for a Kettle Bell certification this weekend so the kids and I packed up and headed to Grammy and Pop's. We enjoyed dinner and movie - Grammy and Pop style. Sophia watched Cinderella for the first time and then had a sleepover. Fun times!

Go Tigers!

2011-10-03T10:11:00.000-07:00

Ready to go cheer on the Tigers!

Sophia and Harper

The girls peeking in the locker room...good thing there was no one in there, yet.

At halftime, Sophia took to the field with Pop to kick around a ball.

Fun with the Keating girls.

Henry posing with Andy, one of our favorite Tigers, and his family during Parents' Weekend.

Apple Day

2011-10-03T10:04:00.000-07:00

Sophia ready for Apple Day at her school last week! She had a great time making apple crafts, reading apple stories, and even assembling and eating an apple crisp!

Happy Henry

2011-09-30T11:10:00.000-07:00

Playing school...

2011-09-30T11:07:00.000-07:00

Sophia, the teacher, with all of her students.

Henry and Peyton

2011-09-30T10:56:00.000-07:00

Playing

Happy girl

Holding hands!

On Wednesday Henry had his first play date with Peyton - what sweet, sweet babies!

Are you ready for some football?

2011-09-28T10:32:00.001-07:00

Sophia and Henry ready to cheer on the tigers at the first WFS home game!

All smiles!

2011-09-21T06:02:00.000-07:00

Happy 2 months with our boy!

2011-09-19T10:27:00.000-07:00

Our boy is 2 months old!

Two months have flown by and it's safe to say that Henry has stolen our hearts. We are all in love with this fellow! Henry is an easy going, sweet baby who loves to be held and EAT. His latest tricks include cooing and sucking on his hands. His little smile and the way he looks up at us makes our day. Henry recognizes his big sister's voice and moves all around when she is nearby. Sophia is so sweet to her little brother. She reads stories and talks to her brother a lot!

School days...Sophia's first day of preschool

2011-09-13T17:35:00.000-07:00

Ready for school!

Do you think she's excited?!

We met our buddies to take a few photos before heading into school. Tommy and the ladies...

During the photo shoot, Sophia tripped on the steps and skinned her knee. Nothing like having a little drama on the first day of school! Em came to Sophia's rescue with her first aid kit and TLC. Sophia was very proud of her band-aid!

Sophia and Sierra heading into the school building together. What sweet girls.

Once we got inside Sophia was more than ready to head to her class. I asked her to wait for me to take a photo but you can tell that she is ready to go! After this shot she was off, leaving Henry and me in the dust...

Look at her go! She's that little pink blur...

Picking my girl up. So sleepy but wanting to stay at school a little longer...

Sophia has been talking about going to school all summer and she was very excited about her first day on Tuesday. She looked so grown up in her pigtails and carrying a back pack! Sophia walked into her classroom all by herself (I could hardly keep up with her while pushing Henry in the stroller) and she started playing, happy as a clam. I thought about her so much after I dropped her off and I couldn't wait to hear about all the fun things she did at school. When I picked her up she shed a few tears because she wanted to stay! We are very proud of our big girl and so happy that she loves school so much! How did she get so big...

Our tiny dancer

2011-09-05T13:01:00.001-07:00

Our girl dressed and ready to go!

Sierra and Sophia listening to Ms. Pam.

Time to line up!

After class Sophia posing with her buddies, Harper and Sierra.

The girls after class.

Our little girl started dance classes on Wednesday with the same teacher who first taught me and helped me fall in love with dancing. It was a special day and I am so excited for Sophia to have this experience!

Annie, this post is for you!

2011-09-03T12:07:00.000-07:00

This picture make me smile! Annie holding Henry for the first time!

Sophia and Henry with Annie and Mrs. Lewis.

Sophia loved having Neil and Mrs. Lewis join her for some Play-doh fun!

My best friend (and most faithful blog follower next to my mother), Annie and her husband Neil made a special trip to our house the Friday before Labor Day to meet Henry and to see our growing girl. It was a short but wonderful visit getting to catch up with one of my favorite girls (Kate, we missed you!). Annie's Mom even got to come over for a little while. Let's get together again soon!

A day at the museum...

2011-09-01T12:43:00.000-07:00

Sophia takes her vegetable shopping very seriously.

Waiting in line for the train.

Ready to ride!

Henry was happy just riding in his stroller during our stay at the museum.

Sophia on the train with Daddy!

Putting on a show.

Water fun!

A couple of weeks ago Raph had to go to Richmond to pick up his racing materials for the Marine Corp Mud Run and we all decided to go for the ride. We arrived in town in time for lunch and while eating we thought it would be fun to go to the Children's Museum before we headed home. Sophia had a great time! It was a pretty small place but perfect for our 2 1/2 year old to explore and have fun before hitting the road. Sophia especially enjoyed the water play area, the castle, and the train!

Cooking up a storm...

2011-08-28T18:52:00.001-07:00

What do you do when they are calling for a hurricane? Head to Grammy's house to make homemade applesauce! The girls in their apple attire getting ready to start the process...

First, pick apples off of Grammy and Pop's apple tree.

Second, wash apples.

Third, peel and cut apples.

Fourth, cook apples and listen as they start to bubble.

Then, you wait...
Henry was very patient hanging out in the cradle.

At one point we looked outside to find a deer munching on some apples too!

When the apples are cooked it's time to put them through the food mill.

Taste testing is very important...

Adding some sugar and spice...

Finally, Enjoy!

Thanks, Grammy for all the fun! What a great way to spend a rainy day. Sophia loved every second and is ready to make more!

Good hair day!

2011-08-26T12:16:00.000-07:00

Sophia taking her seat in the princess chair. She was in heaven! Sophia's face was priceless throughout the whole process.

Crystal starts to work her magic.

The haircut was a family affair.

Adding the fairy dust!

Sophia posing with her fresh, new "do", sticker, and bracelet!

Giving her new hair do the wind test on the carousel at the mall.

We have waited a long time for Sophia's first haircut but Monday was the day! Mom and I took Sophia to Snipits (thanks Lorae for recommending it!) and our girl LOVED getting pampered! Her haircut was just a simple trim but somehow she looks more grown up. Can't believe she will be starting preschool and dance classes in the next couple of weeks.

1 month with our sweet boy

2011-08-19T07:25:00.001-07:00

Henry is one month old! Where has this past month gone? How quickly he has grown from this...

to...

this!

Henry has the best big sister! Sophia could not love her baby brother any more - she always has lots of hugs and kisses for him.

My sweet little one.

This past month really has been wonderful and...quick. I really can't believe Henry is a month old already-time really needs to slow down. Henry is a wonderful addition to our little family. Sophia loves her little brother and Raph and I have been so proud of how our big girl has made the adjustment to having a little baby in the house. Henry sleeps well for a newborn and eats, A LOT! He loves to cuddle and to be held. We have all enjoyed the visitors we have had come by to meet and hold our little Henry. This first month as a family of four has been made that much easier by everyone who has brought meals and goodies. We truly have felt the love this month!

A week with Henry...

2011-07-26T07:55:00.000-07:00

Home from the hospital.

Snuggles with Pop and Grammy.

Granny Herndon gives Sophia a special doll so she will have a new baby to take care of too.

Granny gets to snuggle with Henry.

Future prom dates?! We hope Henry and Peyton will take many pictures together. ;)

Aunt Tracey meeting Henry.

The Sydnors come for a visit and Aunt Jo Jo gets to hold Henry first.

A photo with all the Sydnor men.

Henry Wingfield posing with his great uncle, Robert Wingfield.

Cousin Blair

Tpa with his great grandchildren, Naomi, Sophia, and Henry.

Henry's first bath at home.

Swingin'.

Big Sister helping Grammy change Henry's diaper.

Our boy, one week old, posing with his adoring sister.

Snuggling with his Daddy.

Henry is a week old today and he is such a gift to our family. He is an easy going baby who loves to eat and to be held. We have loved all the visitors coming to meet our little guy and we appreciate all the amazing food our sweet friends and family have brought us. Life is so good.

Henry's birth...

2011-07-22T11:42:00.000-07:00

Excited Mama heading to the hospital!

It was hard to go to sleep Monday night knowing that we needed to wake up early the next day to head to the hospital to have our son. Grammy and Pop kept Sophia at their house and it was such a comfort knowing that she was in such good hands. Raph and I were up and out of the house by about 5:45 a.m. Tuesday morning and like when we had Sophia it was a surreal experience driving to the hospital knowing in a few hours we were going to be holding the baby we had so anxiously wanted to meet for the past 9 months.

We arrived at the hospital and went directly to the labor and delivery floor where they took us back to a birthing room. I had a great nurse who made us feel very comfortable and got all my IVs in and prepped me for surgery. Raph and I were joking around and watching the Today Show and feeling very relaxed. Dr. Wamhoff came in talked to us for awhile - she is the most amazing doctor who feels like an old friend. I love that she was able to bring both of our children into the world. We called Mom and Dad to check in and we got to talk to Sophia who serenaded us with "Bushel and a Peck". Love that girl! Before we knew they were taking me back to the OR and it felt very familiar but still a little scary at the same time. The anesthesiologist put in my spinal (twice) the first time did not go in straight and sent pains down my leg. That was really the only time the entire day where I got really nervous. But, a few minutes later the spinal was in and I was very numb and only a little drowsy. Raph came in and again we were joking and laughing - such a fun environment to welcome a baby.

Then, it was the moment we had waited for! Dr. Wamhoff held up our little boy and exclaimed how healthy and beautiful he was! I heard his cry and after a quick photo I watched the nurse take him across the room to be weighed. I counted his fingers and toes and just marveled at how all that baby had just been inside me. He was perfect. Apparently his umbilical cord was one of the largest they have every seen and I felt so proud that I had given him such a cozy place to grow.

Our little one still didn't have a name. Raph had stared at our little guy for a good long time with the most adoring and loving look that I will never forget then he came over to the operating table and said, "I'm thinking Henry." I couldn't have agreed more!

While I was in the recovery room Dr. Wamhoff went out to talk to Mom and Dad and to congratulate Sophia on becoming a big sister! Sophia greeted Dr. Wamhoff with a big hug and thanked her. When Dr. Wamhoff asked Sophia what she thought of her baby brother she said, "I think I'm going to call him shrimp!"

Our little Henry

Sophia seeing her baby brother for the first time.

Big sister keeping a close watch on her baby brother.

I was in the recovery room for over an hour while they waited for me to regain some movement in my legs. I was so happy to finally be moved to our room and to see my big girl and to hold my little one.

Posing with the proud grandparents.

My best friend Kate was amazing during our hospital stay. She came bearing flowers and my favorite bagel from Bodo's for my post op meal. Kate also took Raph out for dinner and brought breakfast to us the next day. She took good care of us and I can't thank her enough for all that she did.

Sophia loving on her little brother.

Granny holding Henry

DD and Henry

Bridget and Henry

Mrs. Lewis surprised us by coming to visit and hold Henry.

Heading home with our sweet boy to begin our adventure as a family of four. Life is so good!

Henry has arrived!

2011-07-20T05:20:00.000-07:00

Henry Wingfield Herndon Sydnor was born on July 19th at 8:05 a.m. weighing 8 lbs. and 10 oz. Mama, Daddy, and big sister, Sophia could not be happier!

My birthday!

2011-07-15T17:23:00.001-07:00

Posing with my sweet girl on my birthday!

A new camera, breakfast in bed, a homemade card, a delicious strawberry pie, Thai food for dinner, and spending time with my family made it a great start to my 32nd year! I'm excited to see what this year has in store for me!

Fourth of July of the start of my birth-week

2011-07-11T19:07:00.000-07:00

Sophia working on her Fourth of July craft - glitter fireworks!

I had fun making patriotic strawberries.

At Supper Club

Me and my happy girl.

Ready for dinner.

Bridget made me an early birthday cake to kick off my birth week.

After dinner, we headed to Graves' Mountain Lodge to see some fireworks. This girl was dressed for the event!

We are ready for the show!

Posing with Grammy's festive dessert.

It was yummy!

Sophia had a great time talking about fireworks and enjoying the Fourth of July festivities but once the fireworks started she decided that she liked them a lot better while watching from the car. Once inside the car, Sophia gave lots of, "ooo's and ahhh's!" It was a fun day and a great start to my birthday.

If you build it....

2011-07-07T17:46:00.000-07:00

The state of things. I am at almost 37 weeks in this picture - feeling good but so excited to meet our little one very soon!

This was the scene in our living room the other night. Swings, vibrating seat, and a car seat - oh my! Sophia was standing by with her doll, Belle, to test everything out. :)

Pop and Sophia assembling the new chest of drawers for the nursery.

What a good team!

The decorator extraordinaire hanging curtains.

Some photos of the finished product!

We are all ready for our new addition!

It has been fun getting our home ready for baby #2 and turning Sophia's pink and green nursery into a room fit for a little boy! The decorations are up, the drawers are filled, and the diapers are stocked so all we need now is our little one! I had my second to last doctor's appointment today and we are still on track for a c-section on July 19th. Only 12 more days to go...

A visit to Lynchburg...

2011-07-05T18:55:00.000-07:00

Happy to see Tpa!

Heading to lunch - Tpa and his date.

After lunch, reading some stories with Jody.

Then it was off to Amazement Square, a fun, interactive children's museum. We stayed for about 2 hours but I think we could have stayed for 2 days!

Dr. Sydnor is in the house! Sophia loved the doctor's office.

The archeological dig - searching for arrowheads.

Dinner with family. Sophia loved visiting with her cousin Mimi who introduced her to the world of Polly Pockets.

Jody and Tpa

Have I mentioned that Raph has returned from Nicaragua? He is back and it is so wonderful having him home! Since Raph's return we have been anxious to visit Tpa in Lynchburg and to catch with the Sydnors before the baby arrives. It was so good to see Tpa and Jody and to catch up over lunch. After some visiting, Raph, Sophia and I took in Amazement Square and Sophia had a blast! We didn't even make it through the whole museum because there was so much to see and do. After the museum, we had a nice dinner with Uncle Bob, Aunt Joan, Blair, Kurt and Mimi. We enjoyed seeing everyone especially since our last visit was around Christmas! Sophia loved seeing her cousin Mimi and has talked about her a lot since our visit. We hope to see the Sydnors again soon!

Sophia gets a big girl room!

2011-07-01T17:22:00.000-07:00

Sophia loves her new room!

Sophia helped to paint her new room.

Bye-bye nursery and hello big girl room!

Sophia has been in her big girl room for awhile now but I am just getting around to documenting it. We had a great time turning the guest room into Sophia's new room and making it just right for our big girl! Sophia made the transition from her toddler bed to her new double bed without a problem. She loves telling everyone about her new space and always invites them over to see it!

Thanks to my team - Raph, DD, Pop, and Grammy for all your help with the decorating!

Making Waves

2011-06-27T11:16:00.000-07:00

"Did you say swim lessons? Let's go!"

Testing the water...

Giving Miranda, our sweet instructor, a shower.

The kiddos

All finished...

Time for a break.

Sophia is really enjoying her swimming lessons this summer. So far we have worked on kicking, floating, blowing bubbles, and today Miranda introduced arm motion. Our instructor keeps the lessons very fun and includes songs for a lot of the teaching. We are a big fan of the songs! Sophia loves being in the water although going all the way under is not her favorite part. Thanks Mom for getting all of these great photos of our little swimmer in training!

Country Time

2011-06-26T10:27:00.001-07:00

Sophia checking on Grammy's Sunflowers.

Putting lotion on Pop's feet for a Father's Day treat. :)

Bedtime stories with Grammy.

Sun bonnet and a fan - this girl is ready for a day in the country!

Tea time!

Sophia served as the official watermelon taste tester.

Taking a dip in the pool after dinner.

Sidewalk chalk.

Pop's assistant.

Got lime?

Working a puzzle with Mama.

Taking a spin around the block.

Bubbles...

and hop scotch.

Think this girl is having a good time?

We enjoyed a couple days down in the country with Grammy and Pop and Sophia truly loved every minute. It was nice to get away a little bit and Mom and Dad were such a big help entertaining Sophia with all sorts of fun activities. As we were getting ready to head down to Rhoadesville Sunday evening Sophia exclaimed, "I'm so excited! I just love my country!"

Father's Day with Pop and DD

2011-06-24T11:15:00.001-07:00

We weren't able to celebrate Father's Day with Raph because he is still in Nicaragua but we did enjoy being with the best Pop and DD ever! We took these favorite fellas out to lunch and then headed down to Rhoadesville for some country time. We are truly blessed with amazing men in our lives. My Dad is my forever hero and words cannot express how much I love and appreciate him. Thanks Dad, for all that you do for me. You are the best father a girl could ask for! Looking forward to Raph's return on Tuesday so we can celebrate Sophia's amazing Daddy!

Happy Father's Day!!

2011-06-19T12:38:00.001-07:00

Happy Father's day, Daddy!

We miss you and wish you were here to celebrate with us. Thank you for all that you do. Can't wait for you to get home!

Going to the chapel...

2011-06-18T10:40:00.000-07:00

All ready for the wedding.

Taking time to smell the flowers...

Reading the program.

Watching the bride walk down the aisle.

Don't these two look sharp? Sophia loved seeing her cousin, Paul, Jr.

Posing with the proud Grandmother-of-the-Bride, our cousin, Maizie.

The food was delicious but the chocolate covered strawberries were Sophia's favorite.

The happy couple.

"Cheers!"

We had a fun road trip to Maryland to attend our cousin Megan's wedding. This was Sophia's first wedding and it was so sweet of Megan and Scott to include our little one. Sophia was a trooper on the long car ride (thanks for bringing along the DVD player Grammy and Pop!) and throughout the day's festivities, especially because she did not have a nap! Highlights of the day for Sophia included: seeing her cousin Paul, Jr., eating blackberries during the cocktail hour, shaking a leg on the dance floor, and eating the chocolate covered strawberries. We wish you a lifetime of happiness, Megan and Scott!

Sophia's weekend with Grammy and Pop

2011-06-16T10:54:00.000-07:00

Ready for a fun filled weekend with G and P!

Sophia enjoying playing with her doll in the country.

Checking on Grammy's sunflowers.

From one country to the other - Sophia checking out the cows at Granny Herndon's.

Good eats

Look at that face! Yum! Ready to dig into strawberry shortcake.

On the road again! Sophia, Grammy, and Pop on the pier at Gwynn's Island.

At the beach!

Fun in the sand...

Sophia had lots of cousins to entertain her throughout the day...

Mason and Phillip helping Sophia with her sand projects.

Watermelon time! Mom and Dad said that Sophia ate 4 pieces!

Cousins!

Mom and Dad graciously offered to take Sophia for Memorial Day weekend since Raph and I were both super busy with WFS graduation and the dance recital. Our girl had a blast with Grammy and Pop! She enjoyed her trips to the Rhoadesville country, Granny Herndon's farm, and Gwynn's Island. Many thanks to Mom and Dad for taking such good care of Sophia. Raph and I really missed our girl but we knew she was in good hands!

Sprinkle

2011-06-16T10:44:00.000-07:00

Mom and I heading to my Sprinkle...

Everyone who attended wrote words of advice about raising little boys. Lorae read all of them out loud and I was so touched by what everyone wrote.

Posing with the proud Grammy.

My lovely hostesses.

I felt so honored to be given a "Sprinkle" by my WFS friends. I was showered with so many lovely things to help us get ready for our baby boy. The brunch was delicious and I loved spending time with great friends. Thank you for a perfect day!

BBQ!

2011-06-14T11:15:00.001-07:00

Heading to the annual WFS BBQ Challenge!

This girl loves to pose!

Raph taking a break from helping "Team Jamaica" to have dinner with his girls.

Sophia and her buddies, Teddy and Harper.

The hot weather didn't slow these girls down! They had several races after dinner.

Look at 'em go!

Those rosy cheeks and bare feet are a sure sign of summertime!

One of my favorite WFS traditions is the annual BBQ Challenge held each spring. It is a great community event with some of the tastiest BBQ. WFS students representing different regions prepare their signature BBQ for the judges and the community to taste. This year Sophia had a better time running around and playing with her friends than actually eating, but we all agreed it was such a fun way to spend the last full weekend with the WFS students on campus --

Raph in Nicaragua

2011-06-13T19:13:00.000-07:00

Raph is on his annual WFS trip to Nicaragua and if you would like to follow him along the way you can check out his blog here...

http://wfscasa.blogspot.com/

Mother's Day

2011-06-13T18:46:00.001-07:00

Enjoying being together at a fun Mother's Day picnic Saturday afternoon.

Sophia loved the moon bounce!

Cousin Will giving Sophia a ride. She was playing with the radio!

The annual cousin photo.

Mother's Day!

Grammy and Sophia

Me and my girl!

It was a fun Mother's Day weekend. We all enjoyed heading to my cousin's house for the annual Mother's Day picnic and then we had a nice time being together on Mother's Day. Many thanks to my Mom for all that you do for me and for supplying me with these photos. :)

Sorry followers for being so behind on my posts. We have been busy, busy around here but more posts are coming soon. Stay tuned...