The "yard"

Everyone in South Philly calls the outdoor space in the back alley a yard. This is funny if you're from Texas; the yards in the south are often measured in acres. Our Philadelphia "yard" is about four feet by six feet, and it backs up to the rest of the block's yards. Basically, we're all connected by an alley that is just wide enough for John to ride his bike down.

I wanted to show you what I'm talking about, and I wanted you to see some Texas elements that we include in our Philly yard to make it a little homier.


Here's our little diaper line:


Wind chime in the corner: annoying the neighbs, I'm sure.

Our Roma: I have to give credit to my hubby. He's been doing all the gardening this year.



We brought Paco from Texas. He watches over our "yard" :)



This year's Basil is just starting: mmmmmmm!
And, on an unrelated note, Singer wanted to show off his new curves:
What a chunk!

Happy SUMMER,
Jess

quick confession

I'm pretty sure I have a cheese problem. To document my addiction, my husband took a picture. We'll call it an intervention.

In my defense, I couldn't eat a lot of cheeses during pregnancy. So, now I'm making up for it.

Pass the cheese, please!
--Jess

Journal entry for Singer

I wrote this in my journal on Sept. 5, 2009. I was about two months pregnant.

To my child:
I haven't met you yet. I don't know you, and I don't know what kind of person you'll be, who you'll love, what you will do when you grow up, or what will peak your intrigue.

But, yesterday I saw your tiny heart beating on a monitor, and I knew then and there that I love you so much.

Your father and I love each other completely. We chose each other as perfect partners to love and raise you. We stood before God and our families, and we took a vow; a promise to love each other until we die.

With that vow, we also promised to love you until we die.

We are a family, and you have brought great joy into our life. Thank you, sweet child.

You are a blessing.
Forever yours,
Mommy

Being a mommy is hard. It's a challenge every day. But, this really is the most wonderful thing that has ever happened to me. I had always heard that there is no greater love than the love you have as a parent, but I never understood the meaning behind the words...until now. I get it.

With every grin (that apparently is just gas--but I know better! I know it's a smile just for me), with every soft coo just before he yawns, with every grip of his tiny fingers, I know I am a home for this little man.

"All good gifts around us
Are sent from heaven above.
So, thank the Lord
Oh, thank the Lord
For all his love."

--All Good Gifts, Godspell ( a Broadway fave!!)

Smiling,
Jess