Where to begin...

I have always wanted to have a blog.  A place where I can 'mind-dump' (borrowed from Pastor Rob), but never took the time to actually set one up.  So...last night I decided it was time to share the exciting and not-so-exciting things going on in the lives of the Stefano family of 4 (plus a dog).  This first post will have a little bit of everything in it. 

In July 2007, Jason and I welcomed a baby girl, Ava.  She is proving to be God's gift to us (in more ways than one).  She is a very spunky and active child.  Her personality is very unique, but a little frustrating at times.  Her favorite word these past few months is 'NO'.  She recently turned 4 years old, and began attending Pre-K at my school.  It has been quite an adjustment for me, but a great adjustment.  Each afternoon I get to spend quality time with Ava.  I think that she enjoys the time because it is just she and I.  

1st day of Pre-K

In August 2011, Jason, Ava and I welcomed Grady.  Grady is my little 'snuggle-bunny'.  He loves to be held and loves to smile.  His transition into daycare has been a great one.  The ladies in the infant room enjoy telling us how strong he is, and how cute he is.  I have to admit that I, too, think he is such a cutie!

Hanging out!

These past few months have definitely had its UPS and DOWNS.  It all started with the birth of Grady.  I was in some major pain after the delivery, but that was nothing compared to the gall bladder pains that were lurking. 

Five weeks after I had Grady, I went back to the same hospital to have the gall bladder removed.  I haven't had too many after-effects because of that surgery.  And I can actually eat the Peanut Butter M&M's without fear of a gall bladder attack.

I had to reluctantly return to work when Grady was 9 weeks old.  I left Jason (who was on 12 weeks of paternity leave) at home.  Although it was not ideal for me at first, I ended up loving it.  I came home to cooked meals, a happy husband, and a smiling baby boy.

We believe that God was stretching us as followers during the months of September and October.  He challenged us with obstacles that required us to lean completely on Him.  What a hard challenge that truly turns out to be.  It seems so easy at first, but the independent people we are found it rather difficult.

On November 1st, Jason was supposed to return to work.  However, God continued to stretch us as a family.  Jason's stepfather was called home to be with our Lord.  Although we knew the time was coming soon, we still did not expect it.  The last time we saw Bill was the Sunday before he passed.  We had gone to Granny's house to spend some time with Bill and Granny.  When it was time for us to leave, I gathered the kids' things (because "we can't go to the world series without Grady's toys).  I walked to the car and put everything and everyone inside.  There was a nagging feeling that I was forgetting something.  I realized that I had not yet told Bill goodbye.  I raced back in the house, and gave him what turned out to be the final goodbye between us.  I thank God that He gave me the nudge, and that I actually listened.  If only all the nudges would be followed as easily.

Grandpa Bill and Grady - Bill dropped by and said he wanted a picture with his grandson now that the ladies were not around to 'hog' the baby.

I think is a good start for now.  As other things arise, that I feel the need to share, I now have a place to do so.