Life With Two

Katelyn & Barkley

2011-09-14T07:58:00.000-04:00

And Today From Katelyn,,,,

2011-08-13T15:33:00.000-04:00

As we were driving down the road today Katelyn said to me:

Momma? When I get very old...like you...will Danyelle still be my sister?

So cute and funny on so many levels! I am always surprised when Gavin or Katelyn thinks I'm old. I don't feel old but I guess in their young minds I am over the hill.

Very Old. Sheesh Katelyn!! Thanks!!

But to the cuteness....That is the cutest-make-my-heart-all-fuzzy question!!

I told her Danyelle will be her sister always and forever.

No matter how old and wrinkly they both get!

Trigger, Penny, and Blizz

2011-08-08T09:00:00.000-04:00

We FINALLY went horseback riding in TN. We've had it on our to-do list for the past couple of years but never actually got it on our schedule.

But, this year we did and I am so glad we did. We had a blast! I was just a teensy bit nervous about Katelyn being on her own horse, but she did great. Katelyn was put on a horse named Penny and she was tied to the lead horse. She LOVED it! Here's pics of her getting settled onto her horse.

The stable that we went to was The Deer Farm Exotic Petting Zoo and Riding Stables. Our guides name was Mike and he was lots of fun. Even though he had to yell at Ken a couple of times to get his horse moving. LOL

Ken was on a horse named Annie and he was behind me the whole time. Poor Annie was slower than molasses and just loved to walk Ken through the trees instead of staying on the path. The whole ride I heard Ken talking to her: Annie come on now, Annie follow the other horses, Annie where are you going? Annie--come on now! Lots of laughter thanks to Ken and Annie!!

And here's another of Ken and Annie- way behind everyone:

I was on a horse named Bo and we had no problems. Oh, except for the fact that he was in love with Katie's horse Tina who was in front of us. Gavin's horse was Blizz and he had no problems riding at all. He thought it was pretty cool that he got to ride a horse for 45 minutes! Danyelle's horse was named Trigger and was a great horse also!

The trail we went on was just perfect for us. Lots of shade in the summer heat, some inclines and some pretty steep hills going down. All the kids did great and we had such a great time!!

ZhuZhu Ice Cream Party

2011-07-22T21:47:00.006-04:00

We are right in the middle of summer and around our house we have definitely been taking trips up to our local ice cream parlor!! Summertime and ice cream go hand in hand.

We recently had the opportunity to try out some fun new colorful ZhuZhu Pets and have an ice cream party.

Thanks to MomSelect we received 4 ZhuZhu Pets, a ZhuZhu ice cream truck, and the ZhuZhu ice cream parlor.

The ice cream truck was an instant hit with Gavin, Danyelle, and Katelyn. After switching it on it plays music just like a real ice cream truck and the Zhu Zhu Pet is placed inside to drive the truck all over!

The Ice Cream Parlor came complete with drive up service for the ZhuZhu's and lots of tasty treats!

The kids had a great time playing with the ZhuZhu's and all the accessories and then we had an ice cream party of our own!

Thanks to MomSelect for providing the ZhuZhu Pets and accessories for the party. All opinions are my own.

Wordless Wednesday ~ Ice Cream

2011-07-20T09:05:00.000-04:00

Good-Bye Preschool...Its Been Fun

2011-07-18T09:05:00.000-04:00

Katelyn "graduated" from Pre-School on Monday June 6th. Her school did an evening ceremony where all of the graduates came out on their red cap and gowns. The 3 Pre-K classes all joined together on stage to sing the graduation song they had been practicing for weeks.

This is what Katelyn sang:

I learned my numbers 1, 2 , 3 ( 1, 2 ,3 )

I learned my letters A,B,C (A,B, C)

I can even write my name with ease

Aren't you very proud of me ( proud of me)

Kindergarten Here We Come (here we come)

So long pre-school, its been fun

Kindergarten here we come!

It was just the cutest little song with hand motions and foot stomping!

After the song, the classes were called up one by one to be presented their diplomas by their teacher.

Katelyn passed the time by:

Chatting with Jason

Playing with the balloons

And when her name was called she got to go get her diploma from her teacher:
But, after that, it was back to fooling around.

Using her diploma to sword fight with Jason:

Or use her diploma as a musical instrument:

Or as she is walking off stage, using the diploma as some kind of laser gun to zap the kids in the crowd:

Katelyn was so excited that night to be up on stage dancing and singing. I think the best part for her was wearing the cap and gown! She loved it!

And now, like she sang in the song....Kindergarten here we come!!

WW ~ Katelyn's Fashion

2011-07-13T09:00:00.000-04:00

( No, we did not leave the house like this )

7-11 on 7/11 = Free Slurpee!

2011-07-11T14:56:00.003-04:00

Have you gotten your free Slurpee yet?

We have!

Today only, July 11th, 7-11 is giving away free 7.11 oz Slurpee. Go HERE for more details!

Happy 9th Birthday Gavin

2011-07-10T21:06:00.002-04:00

I might say it every year...but...I cannot believe how old my baby is. 9!! So, in honor of that wonderful number...here are 9 things about Gavin.

1) Gavin wants to be a veterinarian when he grows up. He absolutely loves animals. All animals. When we caught a crab on the beach recently I joked we were taking him home for dinner. The look on Gavin's face was heartbreaking and he insisted we throw him back in the ocean.

2) No big surprise to anyone here, but Gavin loves to play the XBox. His favorite things to play are LeftForDead, Call Of Duty, any sports game and Dance Central. I'll have to get a video of him dancing!

3) His favorite shows are Dragon Ball Z, Beyblade, Spongebob, and Fairly Oddparents.

4) He is NOT a patient person. At all. He hates waiting and becomes QUITE irritable.

5) Gavin has an outstanding imagination. He can play for hours all by himself with some of his toys. He loves action figures (spiderman, star wars, green lantern) and creates some pretty scary battles between them. Sound effects and everything.

6) He is NOT a picky eater. He will eat anything and everything. Sushi, spicy things, crab legs, asparagus, and even calamari. I just have to say- Hey Gavin try this...and he will. I love that about him!

7) This past season Gavin took ice skating lessons for 8 weeks. This September he wants to start hockey lessons.

8) Gavin is a little obsessed with zombies. He watches The Walking Dead with me. He loves to find all sorts of zombie moves on Netflix too.

9) Even though he is growing up, every so often he will still sit and snuggle with me. Its usually late at night when hes tired, but hey, I'll take it!

Happy 9th Birthday Gavin!! I love you, Mommy

Wordless Wednesday ~ Beach Day

2011-06-15T09:00:00.000-04:00

VBS ~ Day 2

2011-06-14T11:52:00.005-04:00

Today is the second day of vacation bible school for Gavin and Katelyn. This years theme is PandaMania.

Both kids had a great time yesterday and were full of stories when I picked them up. The craft they made was name tag necklaces to wear all week. Of course with a big Panda in the middle.

Both Gavin and Katelyn said their favorite activity yesterday was game time- and it involved some sort of water gun fight.

Today is crazy hair day. Gavin asked for his to be spiked- and since he needs a hair cut- it does look kind of crazy.

Katelyn asked for her hair to be done in lots of pony tails. So I gave her 5 pony tails and she picked out different colored bands to put on the top of each one.

I am so glad they are having fun at VBS!

And note the cute T-shirts too!

Last Day Of School 2011

2011-06-06T17:55:00.001-04:00

As of 3:15 today- we are on summer vacation! Today was the last day of school for Gavin and Katelyn!

I snapped this picture before they both left for school this morning.

Katelyn was sad that her school year is over. She is a social butterfly who makes friends so very easily. She loved going to school each and every day. When I would pick her up she was always full of stories to tell me about all her little friends. What they ate for snack time, what she did on the play ground, who didn't listen to the teacher, and who she played with throughout the day.

She has learned so much this year. She knows how to write her name out and most of the letters of the alphabet. She can also add some numbers too! I think she is more than ready for kindergarten!

As for Gavin...my poor guy was absolutely thrilled this was the last day of school. We struggled all year long with the increased work load and homework. I am pleased to say that he passed the FCAT with flying colors ( whew ) and starts 4th grade in the fall.

And tonight we have Katelyn's preschool graduation. She has been excited for this for weeks now!

Sunday Fashion Show

2011-02-28T16:56:00.007-05:00

Katelyn woke up Saturday morning sick. She was having trouble breathing and her cough was just horrible. So we started off the day bright and early with a breathing treatment at 7am. My poor girl laid on the couch all day so sad that she was sick.

I think by 11PM we were at a total of 4 breathing treatments and her chest was FINALLY clearing up. Nothing like breathing problems to make me worry sick all day long. And I truly mean ALL.DAY.LONG.

BUT---by Sunday when she woke up, Katelyn was 100% better. Her cough was all gone and her energy was back. And to thank me for all of my loving care the day before Katelyn treated me to a fashion show. I'm not sure what kind of fashion she thinks this is, but lets go with it.

And she's really got the pose down for the runway. She can really strike a pose in her "heel shoes".
But sometimes as a model you have to be able to switch up your look. Like a change of hair color for example.
And last, but not least, to complete the look of being fabulous....you have to have the upside down sunglasses.

Move over supermodels of the world....Here comes Katelyn!

Looks Can Be Deceiving

2011-02-23T08:06:00.005-05:00

I had to laugh this past weekend when I heard Danyelle in the kitchen. I found her standing over the box of donuts I had given the kids earlier.

I heard her say "WHO does this?"

I walked up next to her and said "What?' Whats wrong?"

She opened the donut box and showed me what she had found:

Several half eaten donuts and some with just one bite out of them. Again Danyelle said "WHO does something like this?"

And by now I was laughing hysterically. I called Katelyn in and asked her if she did it. She took a look at all the damaged donuts and said "Yep, I did that. I don't like the chocolate."

I guess it took her biting into 5 or 6 donuts before she realized she didn't like them!

Wordless Wednesday

2011-02-16T07:32:00.002-05:00

Katelyn's 1st Field Trip

2010-11-18T14:01:00.008-05:00

Katelyn had her first field trip last week with her pre-school. She woke up every morning last week and would say "Is this my field trip day?" And every day she would remind Gavin that she would be going on a field trip with her class. Oh yes, she was super excited.

We went to the Van Wezel hall in downtown right on the water. We saw a live performance of Harold and the Purple Crayon.

When we first got there we all waited outside for the everyone to get there and then all walked in to our seats. Katelyn was just beside herself seeing all of her friends outside of school!! Our seats were in the 3rd row right in the center so we could see the stage perfectly.
The play was really cute and Katelyn laughed the whole time. After the show we all went behind the building so the kids could have a snack.

After the snack the kids ran around in the grass and threw some rocks into the ocean. Then they all got together for a group shot.

Don't they all look so cute in their school T-shirts! Katelyn had wonderful time and is looking forward to the next field trip!!

Katelyn School Update

2010-10-13T13:58:00.003-04:00

Katelyn's teacher sent home a big folder full of some of her schoolwork from the beginning of the year. In it was her "All About Me" paper. It has her name on it and her likes and dislikes.

Katelyn told the teacher that her "likes" were: crayons, pigs(?), flamingos, playing, riding her bike, and trees.

Her one and only dislike was--- Transformers.

And when I dropped her off at school this morning her regular teacher was not there. She had a sub teacher taking over the rest of the week and I was told her teacher is at home sick and would be back next week. And I'm pretty sure that is what was told to all the kids too because when she got in the car today, Katelyn said:

Mom, did you know teachers have homes?

And I said- Yes, I did know that, why?

Katelyn said: I didn't know they had homes to go to. I thought they lived at the school.

Yes, her mind was BLOWN that teachers don't live at school!!

Back To School Book

2010-09-18T08:00:00.000-04:00

Gavin brought home his Back To School Booklet he made the first couple days of school. Basically fill in the blank answers about himself and what he did this summer.

Here are some Q & A's

My favorite thing about school is: lunch and recess
My favorite game is: Xbox
My favorite thing to do is: play Xbox ( lovely, what does the teacher think lol )
The best thing about this summer was: playing with my toys
One thing I love to do in the summer that I cant do at school is: play video games

(are we seeing a pattern here?)

The best thing about me is: I am nice
I really like to: run
If I could have one wish, I would wish: that I could drive
I think this will be a good school year because: we have recess

So, what I take away from this little book is my kid likes the Xbox and recess. And I'm sure the teacher knows now too.

Is Bruce A Name?

2010-09-16T16:20:00.004-04:00

Yesterday Katelyn came up to me and asked "Mama, is Bruce a real name?"

I laughed and said "Yes Bruce is a real name."

Katelyn said "Oh, well who has the name Bruce?"

And I said, "Sharks."

I'm sorry, it was the first thing I thought of. But its the truth, sharks are named Bruce. You know, like this one:

But when I answered her question I really had this Bruce in mind:

My favorite scene from one of my favorite movies, JAWS. Poor Capt. Quint getting eaten. And since I know that the cast and crew gave the shark the nickname Bruce while they were filming, of course "sharks' were my first answer when Katelyn asked who was named Bruce.

But then I realized that I should have never brought up sharks when it started a whole new discussion with my 4-year-old.

"Where do sharks live?'

"In the ocean." I told Katelyn.

Her eyes widened with horror. And then she said," Are you joking mommy? Please say you are joking."

I couldnt even answer her because I was laughing hysterically at the poor girl. What kind of mommy am I? First I tell her sharks are named Bruce and then I tell her that sharks live in the ocean.

You know, the ocean that we live a couple of miles from. The ocean that Katelyn loves to play and swim in. The ocean that she now knows is filled with sharks named Bruce.

And since she now has her hands on my shoulders pleading with me to tell her I was just making a big joke out of where sharks live, I told her that, yes, I was only joking. I have no idea where sharks live. She should just ask Daddy when he gets home.

4 Years ~ Then & Now ~ Happy Birthday Katelyn

2010-08-24T21:44:00.004-04:00

I just tucked Katelyn into bed for the last time as a 3-year-old. Tomorrow when she wakes up she will be 4.

4??? I don't even know where the time has gone. Was it really that long ago that I was at the hospital looking at my brand new baby girl for the first time? Her sweet little pink face all squished up staring at me?

4 years ago I had a newborn. A beautiful newborn who immediately slept through the night and hardly ever cried. She watched the world in amazement with her beautiful eyes. She was content to just let you hold her and smother her with kisses.

Today I have a loud, wild, little girl. She is adventurous and knows what she wants. And if she doesn't get it, she will let you know at the top of her lungs. She puts her big brother in his place quite often. She is on the go from the minute she wakes up and doesn't stop moving all day long. Quite the change from my quiet little newborn.

Happy Birthday my darling Katelyn!!

First Day Of School 2010

2010-08-23T21:28:00.007-04:00

Today was back to school day for Gavin and Katelyn. Katelyn woke up bright and early and was super excited. Gavin woke up grudgingly and was super cranky. 2 different kids and 2 different attitudes about school.

This morning was dark and rainy as we were getting ready for school. Our first day of school pictures had to be taken in the house this year.

When we got to Gavin's school it was still pouring. Katelyn and I walked him to his new classroom to watch him get settled in. He only has one friend from last year in his class this year.

After saying good-bye to Gavin, Katelyn and I headed back home. The first day for her Pre-K class was a meet and greet and started at 10. It was still raining at the time we had to leave so Katelyn's first day of school pictures were taken inside also. And, she had quite the time posing for them!!

Once we got to her school she got to meet her 2 teachers. After introductions were made she wasted no time heading over to the kitchen area to play with a couple of other little girls. We stayed for a little over an hour. She got to check out the class fish tank and find her cubby. She colored on same paper and played with the doll house too.

When it came time to leave I had one mad little girl on my hands. She could have stayed all day. Which she will get tomorrow. I hope her super attitude towards school keeps up the rest of the year!

Packed and Ready To Go

2010-08-22T19:47:00.004-04:00

Tomorrow is the first day back to school for Gavin and Katelyn. Can I get a high five from someone???

Gavin is starting 3rd grade and Katelyn will be in Pre-K from 9-12 Monday thru Friday. Katelyn is more than excited. She cannot wait to meet new friends and play on the playground. She did tell Danyelle yesterday that she was a little nervous because she doesn't know her ABC's all the way yet. Danyelle told her the teacher will teach her and not to worry.

Gavin could care less about going back to school. We went to his meet and greet Friday afternoon to see his new classroom and meet his teacher. His desk was all set up with his name and schoolbooks on it. As we left Danyelle asked him what his favorite part of his new class was and he said it was that his desk was by the air conditioner.

Just a little while longer until baths and bedtime tonight. No more staying up late and sleeping in for these kids ( and me too lol ). And I have school lunches to make for the week tonight also. And then I better get some sleep too for my early wake up call.

Vacation Recap ~ Part 1

2010-08-20T07:00:00.000-04:00

After looking through all of our vacation photos I realized that I have to break up our vacation recap into multiple posts.

We left for Tennessee early Saturday morning around 1:30 am. We loaded up all 3 kids in the car and put Phineas and Ferb in the DVD player. Katelyn was the last to fall asleep somewhere around 3:30am. And with Ken driving, I finally went to sleep too.

I woke up around 730ish and the kids woke up when we stopped for breakfast around 930. Since we were now in Tennessee and traveling on back roads, we found a little diner to eat at. It was called the Biscuit Box and was the tiniest little place.

We got to our timeshare in Gatlinburg around 1130 and checked in. After some unpacking it was off to the grocery store to stock up on food. And since Gavin and Katelyn had been begging to go in the swimming pool, that was what we did when we got back.

Gavin loved his goggles and kept going underwater to explore. And Ken and Danyelle brushed up on their handstand skills.

After swimming we headed back to our place for dinner and some much needed relaxation after traveling all day.

Our second day of vacation we stopped at the welcome center to pick up some maps of the National Park.

Our next stop was to the Ski Lift up the side of the mountain that we do every year. Gavin and Danyelle road together and Katelyn sat with me and Ken. She LOVED going up the mountain and talked the whole way up about everything she saw.

Once we got to the top the heat was UNBEARABLE! The temp was around 98 degrees and we felt like we were melting up there. We only got a couple of pictures before heading back down.

We then walked around downtown and stopped in a couple of stores and then made our way to the river that runs along the back of the stores.

The kids quickly took off their shoes and started walking around.

Gavin and Danyelle decided they were going to try to walk to the other side of the river. Gavin didn't get very far before he fell over and got soaking wet. Eventually they both made it to the other side. Gavin came back by way of the river but Danyelle chose to get out and walk around across a bridge instead of chancing it with falling.

Katelyn sat on the rocks near me and picked up leaves and tiny rocks to throw.

And since this post is getting long, I will finish Day 2 in my next post!

2010-08-06T11:21:00.002-04:00

Just a little history on the kids birthday parties for the past couple of years. Since my psycho-nutbag-sister-in-law insists on screwing it all up.

July 2008- Gavins 6th birthday. This was the party where we rented the water slide. Everyone was there, including pschyo-nutbag. We had it on a Saturday. This is also the party where psycho-nutbag decided it was her business to talk crap about me to anyone who would listen.

August 2008- Katelyn's 2nd birthday. We had her party at the house. On a Sunday. It was Dora themed. Psycho-nutbag had to work, but her kids and husband were there. I have pictures to prove it. SO, even though she had to work, hubby and kids came to celebrate their cousins bday.

July 2009- Gavin's 7th birthday. We had it at the bowling alley. Gavin brought 2 friends from the neighborhood. His good friend austin was with his dad that weekend so he couldn't make it. It was on a Saturday. Pshyco-nutbag and her family were invited. I spoke to her hubby personally on the phone to invite them. They were going out of town for the weekend and couldn't make it.

August 2009- Katelyn's 3rd birthday. Again her party was at our house. It was Cinderella themed. We had it on a Sunday. I was in an all girls fantasy football league this year and we were in the process of scheduling our draft party. It was back and forth between saturday and sunday of katelyns bday weekend. Once the girls had determined to have the draft on Saturday, I then went ahead and planned Katelyns bday party for Sunday. Again, psycho-nutbag and family were invited. 3 days before the party nutbag's hubby called to say nutbag had to work and he was going to take the kids to his mother in laws to swim that day instead of coming to the party. His reasoning was since I planned the party for a sunday and psycho-nutbag couldn't get off work, then I did it on purpose so his wife couldn't come. HIS EXACT words to me on the phone.

July 2010- Gavin's 8th birthday. I spent quite a bit of time trying to figure out what to do for Gavins birthday. Since we were now living in Sarasota i wasn't sure where to have the party. He was only in school here for a couple of months and I didn't have any of his new friends names or addresses to invite them to a party. He has a couple of friends in the neighborhood, but I didnt want to plan a party around them, and then them not be able to make it. I then decided to have the party back in pinellas county where all of our friends and family still live. Ken and I went back and forth over what day to have it, saturday or sunday. We finally decided on sunday since it would be easy to take Danyelle back to Tampa after the party was over. Instead of back and forth driving all weekend if we had it on Saturday. The very same day I booked the party, I sent out email invites and Ken called psycho-nutbag and invited her. 6 days before the party psycho texted me to tell me that since she couldn't get off of work to come to the party, then she was sending her hubby and kids to her mothers to go swimming. I called her on the phone where she proceeded to tell me that this is the 3rd year in a row that I have had parties on Sundays on purpose so she couldn't come. Her kids are tired of their mother not being invited anywhere and don't want to come without her. She told me I need to plan my parties on Saturdays when she has off or give her a months notice so she can ask for the day off. She called me a bitch many times and told me to grow up. She once again told me how her and her husband hate me anyway and how she has told her oldest child what a mean bitch I am and he doesn't want anything to do with me anymore. And for the record, my mom and dad were unable to come to Gavin's party because they had to work. My sister Tiffany almost didn't come because she had to work, but got let off early. My brother in law eric was late to the party because he had to work. Hmmm.

Katelyn's birthday party in a couple of weeks is on a Saturday. Because that is what works this year for ME AND MY HUSBAND. NOT anyone else. I plan my parties around my husbands schedule and when we have Danyelle. NOT anyone else.

3 New Schools

2010-07-29T13:07:00.002-04:00

With 6th grade came another new school. Middle School. WOW! Although my friends and I would be back at the bottom of the totum pole, I could not wait to get to middle school. The grown up place. I can remember the excitement of having a locker and having to switch classrooms for different subjects.

I also tried out for the junior varsity cheer leading team. I went to practices a couple of times a week before tryouts and was so happy when I made the team.

Unfortunately, during this time my parents decided they wanted to sell their business and move our family to Florida. So I never even got to cheer at any games.

Our house sold before the business did so we ended up moving in with my grandparents who lived about a half hour away. Which meant another new school for me. The closest school to my grandparents house turned out to be a really bad school and my brother and I went for about 4 days before my mom transferred us to a Catholic school about 15 minutes away.

I really loved the new school and all my new friends, which was good because I was really nervous about starting yet another new school. Our transition into living with my grandparents turned out really well too. My younger brother and sister shared a room and my bedroom was the enclosed back porch area. I loved staying back there, I felt like I had my own little apartment.

I really enjoyed my time living with my grandparents. We were there for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and thru Easter. It was really special to be able to spend the holidays with them like that. My brother and I spend alot of our free time playing in the backyard and riding our bikes in the neighborhood.

By the end of the school year our restaurant had sold and we were ready to make our move to Florida. Which meant another new school for me when I started 7th grade.

***This is an auto - post. I am on vacation this week, so unfortunately I wont be able to blog hop this week***

I am taking part in a 15 week series hosted by Mommy's Piggy Tales to record memories from our youth. To see more or join in yourself- click on over!

Wordless Wednesday ~ Best Lounge in Town ~

2010-07-28T10:00:00.000-04:00

Girls Just Wanna Have Fun

2010-07-23T22:45:00.002-04:00

Sleepovers, MTV, jelly bracelets, and jelly shoes. That's was what 5th grade was all about to me.

Music was a big part of my life in 5th grade. My friend Trina and I fought over who was going to marry John Taylor of Duran Duran. I had Michael Jackson and Madonna posters on my wall in my bedroom.

My wrists were covered in jelly bracelets and my clothes were usually neon in color. Oh my. And I got my first pair of Jordache jeans too. With the horse on the back pocket. And as my love for Madonna grew, I started wearing only black jelly bracelets like she did.

We had sleepovers almost every weekend between all the girls in my class. We would lay on pillows and blankets and watch MTV all night. I longed for the red jacket Michael Jackson wore in Thriller. Or Prince's long purple jacket.

5th grade was all about socializing with my girlfriends. I remember getting in trouble all the time for talking and my seat moved around the room. Oh, and bad notes on my report card saying I talk too much.

I also had my first boyfriend in 5th grade. His name was Scott and he was in a different class than me. But he lived about 5 houses away. He asked me out in a note that was delivered to me by his friend Mark. I said yes and our young little relationship began. We wrote notes back and forth and spent recess together. Eventually his friend Mark started going out with my friend Kim. And then it was the 4 of us. He gave me purple barrettes with my name on them and a purple heart bracelet too. And now to sound really corny--I still have all the notes and gifts he gave me. They are in a heart shaped container that had come with some stationary.
I am taking part in a 15 week series hosted by Mommy's Piggy Tales to record memories from our youth. To see more or join in yourself- click on over!

Moving Right Along

2010-07-21T14:09:00.002-04:00

Tennessee in 3 days!! Yep, vacation is getting closer and closer.

So far today I have packed Gavin and Katelyn's bags. They are zipped up and waiting by the front door. All the beach towels are washed and packed too in the beach bag, along with the sunscreen, goggles, and pool toys.

Next I am off to pack the medicines and toiletries bags.

Which then leaves...packing for Ken and I, cleaning out the car, and packing up the dry foods I have bought to take with us ( perishables will be bought when we get there ). Lets see, I also need to pack a bag with all of our jackets in it since it gets cold at the top of the mountains. EEEEEH, I am so excited!!

Not So ~ Wordless Wednesday

2010-07-20T23:54:00.003-04:00

I guess the good news is my sister Gina is back in town. The bad news is why she is here. My dad was admitted to the hospital Saturday night. Shortness of breath and leg pain. I only just found out last night when I called him on his cell for him to dog sit for me when we are in Tennessee next week.

Imagine my surprise when he told me why he couldn't! I was in shock that he had been in the hospital that long without letting me or my sister know but he said he didn't want to bother or worry us. Sheesh.

Gavin, Katelyn and I headed up to the hospital this morning to visit for a couple of hours. He is on oxygen at the moment and has had a couple of breathing treatments. His right leg is swollen and has red blotchy patches on it. When I left they were going to be taking him for another chest xray and an ultrasound of his leg. Which all means as of right now the don't know what is wrong.

So far we are still scheduled to leave early Saturday morning for our vacation. Gina is staying with my dad when he gets released from the hospital ( whenever that may be ) to help him at home.

Any prayers for my dad's health would be greatly appreciated!!

As for me, I still feel like I have so much to do to get ready for our trip. The dog needs to go to the vet tomorrow for a shot, laundry needs to be done in order to be packed, songs downloaded to the Ipod to keep me entertained on the long drive, and I need to stop by the library sometime to pick up some books I ordered.

I also have to write my post for this week and next week for my Mommys Piggy Tales project. Make sure the camera is charged. Find the charger for the camcorder. Make sure all the bills are paid before we leave. Visit my dad again before we leave. ToNs of stuff I tell ya. LOL

Gavin's 8th Birthday ReCap

2010-07-19T15:16:00.010-04:00

Gavin's 8th birthday was this past Saturday. Ken brought home Gavin some McDonald's for his birthday breakfast and then we opened up his presents.

We ate dinner at home and we all went up to Friendlys for some ice-cream. Gavin brought his friend Cody from our new neighborhood. The boys got a make-your-own-sundae that came with 3 little bowls of toppings for them to add themselves.

Sunday we went up to the Treasure Island Fun Center to celebrate with friends and family. The kids had a blast playing all the games and winning tickets to turn for prizes.

I bought the party package where each kid had an electronic wristband to scan in front of the games for unlimited playing. How cool is that???

The kids stopped playing games for a couple of minutes to enjoy some pizza.

After playing more games and opening presents it was time for cake. Gavin chose a Rays themed party and here is a pic of his cake:

And then it was time to turn in the tickets the kids got from some of the games and pick out their prizes. Here are the boys :

Hope you had a wonderful birthday Gavin!!

Camping Trip in 4th Grade

2010-07-16T19:05:00.004-04:00

At the end of 3rd grade my teacher recommeded I be placed in the gifted program for 4th grade. I was beyond excited. My 4th grade teacher would be Mrs. Atkins who only taught 4th grade gifted and everyone in the school knew about her. The rumor was she was BEYOND awesome and her class would be nothing but fun. And I could not wait to see.

Being in 4th grade was definately different than all the other grades. First of all, I started to develop REAL friendships with the girls in my class. I think that was probably the year everyone's maturity level went up one. My whole class was very close, boys included. I can honestly say I loved all the kids in it and everyone got along.

But the best part of all was Mrs. Atkins. She had a booming personality. She was fun, stern and loving all at the same time. She taught us to respect each other and respect ourselves. And best of all? At the end of the school year she took all of us camping. That's right, she took the whole class of students on a camping trip. The campground we stayed at had cabins. Boys in one and girls in the other. The bunk bed were triple high and I slept in the middle one. We went out on the lake in canoes and did arts and crafts. It was so fun to be in the cabin with all my friends at night. And of course playing tricks on the girls who fell asleep first.

I am taking part in a 15 week series hosted by Mommy's Piggy Tales to record memories from our youth. To see more or join in yourself- click on over!

Happy 8th Birthday Gavin

2010-07-10T09:30:00.002-04:00

Photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com

3rd Grade Memories

2010-07-08T21:54:00.004-04:00

In 3rd grade I started in another new school. We moved into a new house over the summer and I was zoned for a different school. This new school had an open floor plan. Its hard to describe. The building had 2 main hallways and the library was located in the center of the building with no walls just a couple of stairs down. All of the classrooms just had partians and no doors. It was really neat I remember.

I started learning geography in 3rd grade and I can remember having to memorize the states. This was also the year that being called on to read outloud was my biggest fear. I would sit in my chair PRAYING that my name wasnt called to read the next paragraph from whatever book we had opened.

Lets see, I was also flashed in 3rd grade and stabbed a kid with a pencil. Two different stories actually.

Our desks were arranged so that 2 kids were pushed next to each other. I didnt like the boy who sat next to me because he would always pull my hair and try to shove me out of my seat. I guess one day I had enough because I took my pencil and slammed it into his hand palm side up.

I remember him screaming, I remember blood, and I remember sitting in the principals office while they called my mother. I think I claimed self defense and I honestly do not remember getting into trouble for it.

As for the flashing. It was during story time. The whole class was sitting on the floor in front of the teacher who was reading to us. I was kinda at the back of the circle of kids. Off to my side I hear David S. ( yes I remember his last name but no it wont be printed LOL ) whisper to me "hey- look at this."

and when I turned and looked - there was his you know what staring at me from a hole in his jeans.

I said to him "Your gross and I'm telling." Which of course I did.

I am taking part in a 15 week series hosted by Mommy's Piggy Tales to record memories from our youth. To see more or join in yourself- click on over!

Wordless Wednesday

2010-07-07T11:00:00.000-04:00

We gave Gavin his birthday present a week early so he could enjoy it on the 4th of July with his friends.

Liki Tiki Weekend

2010-07-06T19:51:00.011-04:00

We spent Father's Day / my birthday weekend at Liki Tiki Village just outside of Orlando.

This was the view from our room:

We overlooked the lake and could watch people paddle boat. The resort also had mini golf, tennis courts and a playground for the kids.

On our first evening there we headed straight for the pool. Gavin and Katelyn LOVED the pool area. Water flumes, water volcanoes and an octopus.

Katelyn went down the water slide once- that was enough for her. Gavin and Ken went down the double flumes countless times racing each other. And Danyelle? She sat by the side of the pool and texted her friends all evening.

After the pool we headed dback to the room for dinner. Our room was a one bedroom with a full kitchen so we ate all our meals there. The kids slept on the pull out couch in the living room. Gavin has never seen a pull out couch before and was seriously AMAZED by it.

After dinner we went to the little park on the lake. We had to cross over a cute little bridge.

Pics from the park:

And even Danyelle had a good time although she hid her face for the picture:

Once the mosquitoes started biting we headed back to our room. I thought we were in for the night, but Ken always has other ideas. Somewhere around 11pm Ken got the kids all worked up about going to get ice cream.

So off we went to Dennys. At 11. At night. I felt like I was 21 again LOL

Ice cream, strawberry shakes and apple pie a la mode. YUM!

We spent almost the whole day on Saturday at the pool area. This time Danyelle joined in on the water slides and raced Ken and Gavin down them. Katelyn spent her time in the kiddie area.

Gavin came over too right before we headed back to the room.

After a late lunch in the room we went to the mini golf course. It was terribly hot and Katelyn and I pooped out after a couple of holes.

That night we headed up to the outlet mall for some birthday shopping for me. Danyelle also hit a milestone and got to use her debit card for the first time at Forever 21. Which of course I documented :

Then after sleeping in on Sunday morning, we packed and headed home. This resort was so cute we will definitely be going there again!!

Gus, Danny Zuko, and A Cowgirl

2010-07-01T19:54:00.006-04:00

I had my first crush in 2nd grade. His name was Gus. He had jet black hair and always wore plain white t-shirts. In the winter he came to school wearing a black leather jacket. Well, maybe it wasn't a "real" leather jacket but back in 2nd grade I thought it was.

I was also OBSESSED with the movie Grease in 2nd grade ( ok, not just in 2nd grade- but every grade ). So how could I not have a crush on Gus, who to me looked like this:

Oh, I love you Danny Zuko.

At our class Christmas party my teacher asked me and Gus to go get the juice for the party. The juice had been place out on a little terrace down the hallway. Since this was winter in Chicago keeping the juice outside meant it would be cold! As soon as we got outside and started putting the juice onto the cart to take back to the classroom Gus offered me that black leather jacket. Oh yes, yes he did. My heart was all aflutter as I put it on. I kept it on for the rest of the day and was so sad when he asked for it back. ****Sigh****

As for academics, I remember learning the months of the year and taking timed math tests. The timed tests were my favorite. I would try to beat my time from the week before.

For Halloween that year I was a cowgirl. I won the best costume for the 2nd grade. I can remember being quite shocked that I won. My cowgirl costume was cowboy boots, a denim skirt, pigtails, some sort of vest and a scarf around my neck.

My mom volunteered in my class for our Halloween party. She brought my little brother who was 3 years younger than me. I can remember being so proud to show him my desk and let him sit in it. Like it was some sort of privilege for him to sit at it. And he came dressed in his cowboy costume so we matched....aw.

I am taking part in a 15 week series hosted by Mommy's Piggy Tales to record memories from our youth. To see more or join in yourself- click on over!

Birthday Talk

2010-06-29T14:56:00.003-04:00

There has been alot of talk around the house lately about birthdays. Gavin's birthday is coming up in 10 days and Katelyn's is at the the end of August.

Katelyn has decided that she wants a Tinkerbell party. That of course may change once August gets here.

I explained to Katelyn a couple of weeks ago that Gavin's birthday is in July and hers is in August. So even though we might be talking about both of their birthdays, Gavin will be having his party first.

We also went over many times that her birthday was August 25th. And now she remembers it and will say it back to you when you ask her when her birthday is. Very cute.

Yesterday she came up to me soooo seriously and says: Mommy, where is August?

And I said, What do you mean WHERE? August is a month, not a place.

To which Katelyn said, Then why do you always say I was born IN August??

I had no words to answer her- just laughter.

Don't Steal The Lollipops!

2010-06-24T22:39:00.005-04:00

When I was in 1st grade I had to take speech class. My mom said that family members had no problems understanding me when I spoke, but strangers had a hard time deciphering my words. I think that's crazy to think about now that I'm older!

I left my regular classroom once a week to meet with the speech lady. My half hour session with her included 2 other students. These 2 boys were older than me and I didn't know them. But I do remember I didn't like them.

They fooled around and didn't pay attention. I can remember the poor speech lady getting very frustrated with them too.

I would just sit there in disbelief that these boys were being so mean to the teacher. It made me sad and scared to be there. I dreaded speech day because of them.

One time I can clearly remember is when the teacher left us alone in her office for a couple of minutes. One of the boys got up and went to her desk and took some lollipops she kept in her drawer. He asked us if we wanted one and the other boy said yes.

I said no. I was horrified that he was stealing. I was horrified that I was with these 2 BAD kids. I was scared to death of what was going to happen when she found out.

Looking back on it now, this was probably one of the first times my little 6-year-old self was seeing that some kids were bad. That some kids didn't have the same morals instilled in them like I did.

It really was an eye opener for me. And of course as soon as the teacher walked back in, I told her what they did. They got in trouble and that made me very happy. LOL.

I am taking part in a 15 week series hosted by Mommy's Piggy Tales to record memories from our youth. To see more or join in yourself- click on over!

Cassie - I Will Never Forget You

2010-06-17T20:39:00.002-04:00

This weeks assignment over at Mommy's Piggy Tales is to share some memories of our Pre-School/Kindergarten years.

Let's see. Pre-School. I do remember my very first day of preschool. I remember being SCARED to death to go. I was not excited in any way, shape or form. I remember standing in the doorway crying as I was begging my mom not to leave me. My mom walked me over to a little table where a little girl sat doing a puzzle.

My mom asked the little girl her name and she answered "Cassie".

My mom said to me -"Melissa, this is Cassie. She will be your friend and you guys can do this puzzle together."

And I remember relief taking over.

Until Cassie said " NO, I'm not sharing."

Oh yes she did!! That little brat LOL.

And from that day forward I harbor bad feelings toward anyone named Cassie.

The only other thing I remember from pre-school is the calendar on the back of the door. Not sure why.

And let's see now.....Kindergarten. I remember picture day. My mom had set my hair in those pink spongy curlers the night before. Oh how I hated when she did that. I hated the way my hair looked that day. As our class walked thru the school to the gym to get our pictures taken I felt like all the kids that passed me were laughing at my hair. Wait. I just didn't feel it, I KNEW they were laughing at my afro hair. But I survived I guess.

I also remember the night my dad woke me up from sleeping in the middle of the night. He took me to the upstairs window where we had a good view of my school a couple of blocks over. And in the night sky we could see my school burning up in flames. I will never forget thinking how cool it was that I didn't have to go to school the next day!

I was transferred to a different school to finish out the year. And for the life of me I have absolutely no memories of the new school.

I am taking part in a 15 week series hosted by Mommy's Piggy Tales to record memories from our youth. To see more or join in yourself- click on over!

June 20, 1974 ~ My Birth Story ~

2010-06-10T07:00:00.000-04:00

I was born at Christ Community Hospital in Oak Lawn, Illinois.

My mom was in labor for 36 hours. 24 of which were in the hospital and 12 hours of hard labor she has told me. On Thursday June 20th, 1974 at 2:00AM I was finally born.

The doctors quickly diagnosed me with Patent Ductis Arteriosus (PDA) and a heart murmur. PDA is the blood vessel the baby uses while still developing that lets blood bypass the lungs since the baby gets all its oxygen from the mother. After birth the valve closes on its own.

Mine did not close. I was placed in an incubator to monitor my difficulty breathing since blood was now being pumped into my lungs. The doctors told my mom I had about 24 hours to live unless the valve closed on its own.

And to make matters worse, a tornado decided to touch ground right by the hospital. All the windows to the nursery were blown out and all the newborns were pushed into the hallways for the rest of their stay. Thank goodness I was in an incubator!!

My 24 hour window passed and the valve had still not closed. My mom has told me that at this time the doctors told her my valve would not close now and I would be gone within 12 hours. Sometime in that next 12 hours my valve did close all on its own and my heart murmur was gone too, much to my moms relief I am sure.

My parents named me Melissa Charlotte. My mom has told my that my father picked it out because it was different. And let me tell you, I grew up HATING my name. I wanted a popular name like all the other girls like Jenny or Amy. And I also refused to tell people my middle name. All the other girls had middle names like Anne or Marie.

But now I am older and wiser, haha. And I no longer have name issues.

To see other birth stories or to add your own head on over to Mommy's Piggy Tales.

Um, What?

2010-06-09T16:57:00.004-04:00

Katelyn said to me today, Mommy, can I have a peen ana for my birthday?

I said, a what???

A PEEN ANA!!! she yelled back at me.

I said , Oh, a Pinata! Haha, Ok Katelyn. What made you think of that?

And she replied- I had one at my 2nd birthday when I turned 3.

This girl cracks me up on a daily basis!!

Good-Bye 2nd Grade

2010-06-04T18:56:00.003-04:00

So today was Gavin's last day of 2nd grade. I guess I officially have a 3rd grader now. He has been counting down the days all week for today.

This morning I said to him- Good Morning Gavin! Today is the last day of school and the last day you have to wake up early until next year!

And he said back to me- Good, its the last day I have to brush my teeth too.

This is Gavin this morning before school:

He ended the year starting to learn fractions and multiplication in math. I am sooo not ready for that! I am not looking forward to homework already next year.

We've got tons of stuff planned for the summer to keep both Gavin and Katelyn busy. Gavin is going to soccer camp for 2 weeks, we have a weekend away planned in a couple of weeks, and a week vacation in July to Tennessee. I also signed up the kids for free bowling a couple of days during the week and of course there is also the free movies that come out every summer.

Congratulations Gavin! I am so proud of you this year!

Award Ceremony

2010-06-03T15:44:00.005-04:00

Yesterday was the 2nd grade end of the year awards ceremony. Katelyn and I headed up to the school and surprised Gavin by being in the audience to watch.

Gavin won 2 awards. The first award he got was the Super Citizen ( showing courtesy, kindness, consideration, and respect for his fellow students and teachers).

When they called his name he got to go up on stage and shake the principals hand, receive his award along with a pencil and ruler. Then the kids who won the award get to stand up on the bleachers together.

He also won the Certificate of Achievement Award for doing Quality Work each day. So twice I got to clap and Cheer for him. And speaking of cheering, on the way back to their seats the kids get to walk thru girls with pompoms while music is playing. Kinda cute.

After the ceremony I asked Gavin if he was surprised that he won awards and he said NOPE. I said, Oh really?

Gavin said- Well, I figured I would get the super citizen award because ya know mom, I am really kind at school.

ok- LOL, if you say so Gavin.

Puppies, Movies, and Swimming...

2010-06-01T22:57:00.009-04:00

That's how I would describe our weekend. Friday evening Ken worked late so I took the kids up to the pet store to get some new treats for Barkley. We started off at the hamster cage and we had fun trying to catch them. Then we moved onto all the sweet little puppies. It was dinnertime so they were all jumping around and barking in their cages. I let Gavin pick out which one we wanted to play with and he chose a cute little brown Boxer puppy. He was just sitting quietly in the cage watching all the people go by.

Once we were in the little room, the quiet little guy went WILD. Ran around in circles jumping up and biting us wherever he could. Katelyn quickly jumped up onto the bench while Gavin, Danyelle and I did a little dance around the room to get away from him. One of the employees threw in some chew toys and we held him off with those for a little while!! Even after all the little puppy nips I'm sure Gavin and Katelyn would love to go back and play with him again.

Saturday early evening we took the kids up to the theatre to see the new Shrek movie.

Let's see....that's 5 family members plus the cost of tickets = HOLY CRAP THAT WAS EXPENSIVE!!! Seriously, not only did we have to pay for admission, but since the movie was in 3D they tacked on another $3.50 to every ticket. GRrrrr. Other than that we had a great time. The movie wasn't too long and was full of laughs. I just love that damn donkey!

Sunday morning we tried out a new church here by our new house. Katelyn surprised me by saying she wanted to try out the Sunday school. I walked her in, sat her down, and said goodbye. When we picked her up she was laughing and told me she liked it there.

That afternoon we went to an anniversary party/BBQ/Pool party. Katelyn jumped right into the pool and stayed there for the rest of the day only getting out to eat a hotdog.

Gavin on the other hand spent some time playing with the remote control boat. Which at first scared the daylights out of Katelyn. She would scream and try to swim away every time the boat was coming anywhere in her direction.

He finally changed into his bathing suit and wasted no time trying out the slide.

And then after that it was off to clean the tiki bar.

Who knows why, but that's my Gavin, lol.

And that, was our weekend!

Wordless Wednesday

2010-05-26T07:00:00.000-04:00

Someone snuck into her big brothers bed in the middle of the night

Post It Note Tuesday

2010-05-25T07:00:00.000-04:00

Yesterday

2010-05-14T18:00:00.003-04:00

Yesterday...Katelyn spilled paint all over the kitchen table.....after I told her countless times to be careful.

Yesterday...Katelyn refused to go to the bathroom unless I was in there with her.

Yesterday...Gavin was in tears over his spelling words.

Yesterday...Katelyn took ALL of her clothes out of her dresser for a mid afternoon outfit change.

Yesterday...I tried a new recipe for dinner and it did not turn out right.

Yesterday...I made the mistake of taking both kids with me to WalMart...

Yesterday...Gavin and Katelyn decided to fight over who's arm and legs were closer to each
other in the car....THE. WHOLE. DRIVE. HOME.

Yesterday...Every time I let the puppy out he insisted on hiding in the bushes...making me crawl in there after him....EVERY...SINGE....TIME.

Yesterday...I lost my patience way to many times.

Yesterday...I yelled way to many times.

Yesterday...at 11PM I realized Ken didn't have any work shirts clean.

Yesterday...I went to bed and prayed to have more patience with my kids. Something I am running out of more and more lately.

Yesterday...As I was laying in bed I heard Katelyn sleeping through the baby monitor. I heard her laugh and giggle. She must have been having a wonderful dream.

Yesterday...After hearing my baby girl giggle in her sleep, I went to bed relaxed and ready for a new day.

Do We Need Milk? Ask Katelyn

2010-05-10T11:23:00.004-04:00

One of Katelyn's favorite things to do is go grocery shopping with me. She asks me on an almost daily basis if we are going to Publix. I take her with me about 90% of the time since trying to shop and answer her zillions of questions don't really mix well together. And for the most part, Katelyn is very good in the store. She HAS to have to shopping cart that is shaped like a race car and "drives" the whole way around the store. She even makes sure the bananas are safe by putting the seat belt on them.

And she has become quite good at telling me what we need to buy. Even making her own lists to take with us.

She brings her list with us every time we go now for the past couple of months. She sits in the cart "reading" it as we go along. And when i say things like "Oh, we need cheese" Katelyn will say "yep, it was on my list mommy". Too cute.

Happy Mother's Day

2010-05-08T18:28:00.003-04:00

A handmade Mother's Day card:

Complete with a self portrait of Gavin and Mothers spelled wrong:

The little things make me so happy and make my heart just melt.

Wordless Wednesday

2010-05-05T06:30:00.000-04:00

The beautiful bride and flower girl.

Thoughts From Gavin

2010-05-03T22:27:00.000-04:00

Mom, look, I am starting to grow ALOT of hair on my legs!

Look- that pole has a flag of the United States of America!! Can I touch the pole?
after touching the pole WOW! That was so cool. I've never touched a United States of America pole before!

I really want to watch the new spiderman. Its on at 7 / 6 central.

Gavin: Mom, can we go to Canada for summer vacation?
Me: No way- its too far away.
Gavin: No its not. Just get on the interstate. It only takes 24 hours if you are on the interstate.

Wordless Wednesday ~ Strawberry Fields ~

2010-04-14T07:00:00.000-04:00

Post It Note Tuesday ~ Randomness

2010-04-12T07:29:00.000-04:00

Wordless Wednesday ~ Busch Gardens ~ Jan 2010

2010-02-02T22:14:00.002-05:00

Hibernation

2010-02-01T13:06:00.003-05:00

This is Katelyn's second year of pre-school. She goes 3 half days a week.

I love picking her up from school and talking about her day. She tells me what they had for snack, who she played with on the play ground, and if anyone wasn't in school that day. She also lets me know who she sat by for circle time, if she played with the dolls, or if she got to paint that day.

I also love to hear about everything that she learns. A couple of weeks ago it was Martin Luther King Jr. She just called him "Martin" which sounded so cute.

Today she got in the car to tell me she learned about hibernation. This was our conversation:

Katelyn: I think I have to do a hibernate when I get home mommy.
Me: What? Hibernate? Who told you that?
Katelyn: My teacher told me. Animals and all the girls and boys do hibernate in the winter.
Me: What does hibernate mean?
Katelyn: It means go to sleep for a long time. Bears do hibernate in the ground, but I can do hibernate in my bed cause the ground is yucky. I don't want to get yucky.

So of course I'm thinking GREAT- she's going to take a nap when we get home- yipee! But as fast as our conversation went about hibernation- it quickly changed to her singing Frosty the Snowman and telling me she wants to watch Cat in the Hat when she gets home. So much for her hibernation!

Post It Note Tuesday

2010-01-18T23:28:00.004-05:00

For more Post It Note Tuesdays- head on over to SupahMommy

OverHeard ~ Katelyn

2010-01-15T09:35:00.000-05:00

Danyelle: Katelyn, what do you want to be when you grow up?

Katelyn: Hmm, I think I will be a stop sign

Me: Katelyn what are you doing up so early?

Katelyn: I didnt want to miss watching Spongebob

Using her Ariel camera, Katelyn says: Smile Mommy. Good Mommy. You look so handsome.

Katelyn: Mommy, do you want to have a best friend picnic with me?

Wordless Wednesday ~ Katelyn

2010-01-12T22:48:00.003-05:00

A new way to carry Strawberry Shortcake and Lemon Meringue---- in the waste band of your purple tutu.

Post It Note Tuesday

2010-01-11T23:53:00.000-05:00

For more Post It Tuesdays head on over to SupahMommy

Wordless Wednesday ~ Mountains

2010-01-05T23:29:00.002-05:00

Christmas Ballet ReCap

2010-01-04T20:21:00.003-05:00

Katelyn had her Christmas Ballet Show a week before Christmas. Her little outfit was so adorable!

I was soo happy when her little class came out on stage. Katelyn did the whole routine !! She was only a tiny bit distracted once by all the lights up on the stage. The dance her class did was called Roly Poly Bear.

Good-Bye 2009

2009-12-31T18:14:00.003-05:00

And hello to 2010!

We have no huge plans this year to celebrate the new year. I am waiting for Gina and Paul to get here, and then picking up my cousin from the airport later tonight.

And I guess like most years- 2009 had its share of ups and downs. Gavin turned 7 this year and is in 2nd grade. He is also playing baseball again and still loves it. Katelyn turned 3 in August and goes to school 3 half days a week. She loves all her little friends and even pretends to do homework at night. She started ballet lessons in the fall and goes once a week to class. She LOVES it. She had her Christmas show a couple of weeks ago and did the whole routine right up on stage. Of course I cried when my little girl came out!

We took the kids to Disney for spring break and Katelyn was in heaven with all the princesses. We also spent a week over the summer in Gatlinburg. Our days were packed from morning to night and we all had a wonderful time.

And Gina and Paul moved from Alaska to Georgia so FINALLY my sister is close to me again! We were able to stop at her new house on the way home from TN. And it was nice to have them be close enough to drive home for Thanksgiving and Christmas this year.

Unfortunately 2009 is ending on a bit of a sad note. A very dear loved one lost her battle with cancer last week. My heart is still breaking for all of her family and friends. And even thought I know she fought until the end and right now she is pain free, it doesn't make it any easier to lose someone.

We are also having my brothers going away party this weekend. He is leaving next week to go overseas and proudly serve our country. Even though he has had his orders for a year now, I am still in shock that he is actually leaving.

I have also let my blog slack BIG TIME that past 7 months or so. I am starting January with many blogging goals in mind-- lets hope I stick to them!

Have a safe and Happy New Year everyone.

Hickory Farms ~ Holiday Review ~

2009-12-05T21:19:00.003-05:00

I seriously cannot believe that Thanksgiving has come and gone already. Now Christmas is 20 days away!!!

So during this busy holiday time rushing around trying to find the perfect gift for everyone, don't forget about Hickory Farms Gifts !!!

Who wouldn't love a gift for home entertaining around the holidays?? Hickory Farms Gifts have been a holiday tradition for almost 60 years. They provide a wide variety of sausages, cheeses, fruits, nuts, and even sweets!!

For a limited time this holiday season, for each Party Planner Gift Box sold, Hickory Farms will donate $5 to Share Our Strength, a non profit organization working to end childhood hunger.

Visit http://www.hickoryfarms.com/ to see what they have to offer for the holidays!!

I wrote this review while participation in a blog tour with MomCentral on behalf of Hickory Farms and received a Hickory Farms gift basket to facilitate my review.

Ronzoni Smart Taste ~ Review ~

2009-12-04T23:27:00.004-05:00

I know I'm not the only mom out there who is constantly trying to make sure our kids are eating healthy foods. I am lucky that Gavin will eat anything put in front of him, but Katelyn is my picky eater. I was more than happy to be able to try out the new Ronzoni Smart Taste Pasta.

It looks and tastes like regular white pasta, but Ronzoni Smart Taste contains added calcium and fiber, helping kids get their daily recommended value of both nutrients while still enjoying their favorite food. Other benefits for the whole family include lower calories and fat than traditional white pasta, and no sodium, preservatives, or cholesterol.

And Ronzoni knows the frustrations moms go through when trying to get our kids to eat healthier foods. So in addition to their line of pasta, they have created SmartTaste Supermom at their funny spoof video on YouTube .

I wrote this review white participating in a blog tour campaign by MomCentral on behalf of Ronzoni Smart Taste Pasta and received a sample of the pasta to facilitate my review and a $20 thank-you gift certificate.

2009 What I am Thankful For

2009-11-24T20:20:00.002-05:00

Katelyn is thankful for:

My mommy
books

Gavin is thankful for:

mommy always helping me
that I have very good dinners
trees because they give us fresh air

I am thankful this year for my awesome husband who works his butt off so I can stay home with my babies.

I am thankful that Katelyn is potty trained!

I am thankful that both of my kids are healthy and happy.

I am thankful for the roof over my head.

I am thankful for my friends and family.

I am thankful for diet coke....mmmmm

I am thankful for Dexter and Greys Anatomy.

I am thankful for campfires and marshmallows with the kids.

Have a wonderful Thanksgiving!!

Wordless Wednesday ~ Halloween 2009

2009-11-04T12:14:00.003-05:00

A sailor

A ninja

Snow White

And we were joined by a policeman and Delta Force guy!

Pumpkin Patch & Carving 2009

2009-11-03T12:58:00.004-05:00

The long awaited trip to the pumpkin patch finally arrived last week. Katelyn has been talking about getting a pumpkins since the beginning of October when I put out the Halloween decorations. She was so happy to finally get there and kept running around looking for her perfect "baby pumpkin" as she called it.

After Gavin and Katelyn found just the right one, we headed home to gut and carve them. It was so cute to watch Katelyn with the pumpkins. She was amazed that we had to carve the top off and get the seeds and guts out. And she dug right in along side of Gavin!

Gavin picked out a Batman design to be carved into his pumpkin and Katelyn chose Dora.

Hmm, I Think Someone Had Some Chocolate

2009-11-01T16:16:00.003-05:00

When she walked into the room looking like this:

I said: Katelyn, Did you get into the Halloween candy?

And she answered: Nope Mommy. But can I have some candy?

And then giggled like a crazy woman. A crazy woman all hoppped up on chocolate!

Wordless Wednesday ~ Thanks Donna & Merci ~

2009-10-14T01:00:00.000-04:00

OverHeard

2009-10-12T12:15:00.000-04:00

Gavin: Anyone want to stay up all night with me and sword fight?

Gavin: If my new coach says I'm on the Rays it would be the best day of my life.

Katelyn: Pee Pee on the potty is so boring mommy.

Dropping Katelyn off at school:

Me: Katelyn, Give Mommy a kiss good-bye

Katelyn: Again? I'm tired of givin you all deese kisses!

As Katelyn is sitting on my lap:

Katelyn: Stop putting your nose air on me its making me cold.

Gavin: I love mommy and daddy the best, Katelyn the 2nd best, and my stuffed turtle the 3rd best.

Venom

2009-09-30T22:07:00.002-04:00

Gavin's been in school for about six weeks now and I have to say all is going well. We have had an increase in the amount of homework he has this year compared to last. But Gavin is doing really well with the material and so far even doing homework with him isn't a nightmare like it was last year.

Gavin also gets to switch classrooms with another class for science. His whole class goes into the classroom next door so that teacher can teach them science while his regular teacher teaches the other class social studies. This is one thing Gavin thinks is pretty cool about 2nd grade.

And, I can really tell Gavin is learning so much already this year. And retaining all of the information and taking it to heart. 2 weeks ago he learned about fire safety. And I guess his teacher told them a story about her garage catching on fire once. Last month, last year, or 10 years ago I have no idea when the fire took place. But it was ALL Gavin could talk about. Now he is going around the house unplugging things so we don't have electrical fires and asking me where our smoke alarms are. He also asked me daily if I thought our garage would ever catch on fire. I spent about a week re assuring him that nothing would happened to our house.

This weeks topic? Snakes. Snakes and the venom they have. The venom that will kill you if a snake bites you. Gavin has already gotten out of bed 6 times tonight to tell me how scared he is now of snakes and venom. Are there snakes in our walls? Can snakes get into our house? Will the venom make him die? OMIGOD what kind of questions are these?? And my heart is aching knowing that is laying there worrying about these things.

I finally got him calmed down by telling him I have anti venom in our medicine cabinet. Yes, I lied. But it got him to finally fall asleep. And I am really looking forward to see what he learns about next week!!

Afternoon at the Beach

2009-09-18T15:52:00.007-04:00

Since Wednesday's are early release day this year, we decided to take advantage of the great weather and head out to the beach after I picked up Gavin from school.

The sun was shining, breeze was blowing, and the waves were perfect for the kids to play in. Other than some quick questions from Gavin about sharks ( thanks Shark Week ! ) , both Katelyn and Gavin spend most of their time in the water running back and forth from the waves.

Gavin took some time out to build some sand castles and Katelyn chased down some sea gulls.

Gavin also spent some relaxing time in the hammock.....

that is until Katelyn saw him and decided he needed some pushes..
We ended the night barbecuing some hot dogs and watching the sunset.

Not too bad for a Wednesday.

Rained Out Again

2009-09-15T20:05:00.002-04:00

Gavin's first baseball game of the season was scheduled for this past Saturday. We woke up to a thunderstorm outside. We got ready anyway hoping that it would stop raining in time for the game. But sure enough, the coach called and cancelled the game right as we were about to walk out the door.

Gavin was so sad his first game was cancelled and let us know about it all day long :( Poor guy.

Tonight Gavin had a game scheduled for 630. Again, Gavin was super excited to be going to his first game of the season. No rain this time as we walked out the door. But when we got to the fields I knew once again Gavin would be disappointed. All of the fields were flooded from the thunderstorm we had around 3pm. We waited for the rest of the team to get there for the coaches to officially cancel the game due to the fields.

So, Game 1 has been rescheduled for the 3rd time to this Friday night. Then he has a game again on Saturday morning. Let's hope today was the last of the rain!!

First Ballet Lesson

2009-09-14T17:46:00.004-04:00

We just got home from Katelyn's first ballet / tap lesson and OH . MY . GOD . I have never seen anything cuter in my life. For real. Katelyn looked precious in her pink leotard and white tights lined up with all the other little girls.

They did their tap lesson first and learned 3 different moves. Then they switched into their ballet shoes and practiced first position. Then they practiced standing on their tip toes with their arms in the air and turning in circles. Cute. Cute. Cute.

And finally they did a little dance with a partner.

Katelyn goes once a week for 45 minutes. The first class of the month is considered visitors day and all the other days I wait for her outside. She also received a ballet book which will let me know what moves she is learning and how her behavior was in class. Its called Princess Behavior- which is right up Katelyn's alley!!

Katelyn's First Day of School

2009-09-05T00:11:00.002-04:00

Katelyn is back in school!! She started back this Monday and goes 3 days a week instead of the 2 days like she did last year.

Monday morning she got up and was sooo happy to be getting ready to go back and see her friends. As we waited in the car line for her teacher to come out and get her she told me she was going to read books, have snacks and play on the playground.

When her teacher came out to the car to get her Katelyn gave me a good-bye kiss on my arm and hopped out and never looked back!

All 3 days this week went wonderfully for her. And when Thursday came and she found out that it wasn't one of her days to go to school, boy, did she have a fit!!

Oh, well, I am at least happy that she enjoys going!

Happy 3rd Birthday Katelyn

2009-08-25T17:27:00.006-04:00

To My Dear Princess Katelyn,

Happy 3rd Birthday my sweet baby girl. I can still call you that even though you tell me your not a baby anymore, your a big girl. And yes, you are my big girl now too.

You have made the transition from crib to toddler bed and are now fully trained on the potty--thank goodness! Both of these accomplishments have made me a tiny bit sad at just how fast you are growing up.

Your favorite things right now are coloring, playing with your tea sets and kitchen, playing with all your babies, and ANYTHING that has to do with princesses. Princesses are by far your favorite thing of all time right now. You know all their names and most of the stories they come from.

This past weekend we had your birthday party and sure enough, you chose a princess themed party.

We even had a Cinderella pinata

You had a wonderful time opening your presents and were completely overjoyed by each one.

And your smile could not have been bigger than when you saw your cake! You were mesmerized by it and were grinning from ear to ear while we sang you Happy Birthday. Then you blew out the candle like a pro!!

Katelyn, 3 years ago I was overjoyed that you entered my life and today I feel so incredibly blessed to be sharing my life with you!

Happy Birthday baby girl!

Love,

Mommy

First Day Of School ~ 2009 ~ 2nd Grade

2009-08-25T11:21:00.005-04:00

Its not until the first day of school that you realize just how fast the summer went by. Or that I realize I still haven't posted about our summer vacation yet!!

Today is Gavin's first day of school. A big 2nd grader. He was torn between being excited to go back and not being happy about having to actually do schoolwork again.

Over the summer Gavin's school added a new 2-story building to accommodate more kids. Gavin and I were both very happy to find out his class would be in the brand new building. I walked him in to his class this morning and was very excited for him. His new class is HUGE! The room is connected to another 2nd grade class by a little walkway where they have a shared bathroom which is nice.

Gavin quickly found his desk and started to unload all his new school supplies. He found where the backpacks and lunch boxes go also. I asked him if he wanted me to come inside at the end of the day and he told me he wanted to go thru the car line. Ok then.

And he was also happy to see about 10 kids he knows from previous years. After he was all settled in there was still about 10 minutes before the final bell rang. I asked Gavin if I could go or did he want me to stay longer. He whispered to me "GO!". I asked him if he wanted a kiss goodbye and he acted like it was the worst thing he heard his whole life. Ha, ha, oh well!

Now I cant wait to pick him up to find out all about his day!

Socks

2009-08-11T17:00:00.001-04:00

Ok, so I have this thing for socks. I love them. I wear them all the time in the house. Most likely you will never catch me without socks on.

I like plain socks, funky socks, soft socks, fluffy socks, or knee high socks. LOVE THEM.

Sooo, I think my love of socks has passed along to my son. He doesn't wear them around the house all the time like I do, and he even is quick to tear off his socks and shoes when he gets home from school. BUT, if he spots a funky designed sock- he wants it. When he was in kindergarten he got ahold of Danyelle's knee high Spongebob slipper socks. The were too huge on him but he wore them anyway. Even to school once. (shudder)

Last year he found a pair of socks that Paul had sent me from Alaska. They were dark blue with purple, pink and teal swirls thru them with ALASKA written in bold letters. Again, he wore them to school. Pulled up to his knees. (double shudder)

While we were in Gatlinburg a couple of weeks ago I thought I died and went to heaven when we there was a store on the strip entirely devoted to socks. My oh my. Before I knew it I had 5 pairs in my hand. I got pirate socks, dolphin socks, and some ladybug socks. I got Katelyn some knee high rainbow bright socks. Too cute.

My bliss was ended when Gavin and Ken walked in. Gavin went nuts over all the choices. I tried to steer him in the direction of socks that would fit him. He ended up finding a pair of womens knee high socks. With horses on them. And big letters that said "I LOVE MY HORSE".

I said "Gavin, these socks are too big for you. And they say- I love my horse. You don't have a horse."

Gavin thoughtfully looked at me and said " I think I love horses"

I said " well, your not getting these, find different ones"

He went on to find a pair of mens black socks. With a bear riding a motorcycle on it with orange and red flames. I again explained how they were too big and wouldn't fit. Gavin didn't care.

So here he is --- in all his glory. Wearing mens socks that go up past his knees. And yes, he wore these out on our vacation.

$.99 Ice-Cream! Yummmmmy

2009-08-06T20:02:00.002-04:00

Vanilla, Strawberry, Butter Crunch, Chocolate Almond Chip, Maple Walnut, Purely Pistachio, Black Raspberry, and Mint Chocolate Chip.

Mmmm, Did that get you in the mood for ice-cream? If it did, then I have a great offer perfect for these last hot days of summer.

From now until August 23rd you can get a Friendly's Ice-Cream Cone for under a buck!! Yep, that's right an Ice-Cream cone for $.99!!

So, what will it be? Forbidden Chocolate or Hunka Chunka PB Fudge?

Whatever the flavor- hurry in before the offer ends!!

VBS ~ Day 1 ~

2009-08-03T21:03:00.002-04:00

We got back from our vacation Sunday night and bright and early this morning we started VBS. Updates on our vacation coming soon.

Ken took one more day off of work so Katelyn got to stay home instead of going to the nursery at church that she loves so much ( sarcasm ).

Gavin and I headed out bright and early at 8am ( YIKES ). I am volunteering again this year to be a group leader. Last year I had elementary aged kids and Gavin was in my group which was so fun. This year I am in charge of the pre-school aged kids - 4 and 5 year olds. I was kinda excited when I was told I would be getting the younger kids. I kept imagining cute little cuddly babies.

I got to my station this morning and was ready and waiting to welcome my kids with open arms. I have 5 kids in my group- 3 girls and 2 boys. Girl #1 arrived and started talking nonstop about her school, friends, cats, dogs, pets of her friends, and anything else you can thing of. Boy #1 arrived and and ran away from me screaming. Boy #2 arrived and spent the first 20 minutes this morning laughing uncontrollably over nothing. Like a patient out of the loony bin. Girl #2 arrived and cried hysterically and didn't want her dad to leave. When he finally did leave she grabbed ahold of my leg and sobbed for 20 minutes. Girl #3 arrived and started running around in circles chasing herself.

And that is how we started the morning. The boy and girl who started the morning off crying quickly got over that and their true little selves came out. My group of kids really got along well thank goodness! But they are quite the wild bunch. No cute cuddly little babies here.

I learned quickly which ones I had to hold hands with when we moved from station to station. I learned which one liked to wander away and leave the group. Which one is the one who asked 500 times if his mom was back to pick him up. Which one who told me repeatedly he was bored and just wanted to go outside and play. Which cute little one kept giving hugs to everyone and not letting go. And all of them like to run from me when I am talking. I mean, WHAT is going on here???

And the best part?

Are you ready?

I learned which one likes to take all his clothes off when he is in the bathroom. Yep, that's right. Naked. I only know because other boys came out of the bathroom laughing about the naked kid. And I happen to have 1 boy in the bathroom. I sent my other boy in to see what was going on and he came out laughing that boy #1 was naked. OH. MY. GOD.

I stuck my head in the bathroom door and pleaded with him to put his clothes back on. No response. I asked my 14 year old nephew who was there also to go in and help the kid out. He told me no and walked away. Finally another adult male walked by and I told him I REALLY needed some help. It took him about 10 minutes to convince this kid to get dressed.

Lesson learned. Day 2 of VBS is tomorrow and Boy #1 will be holding it all day if he has to go the the bathroom.

Summer Vacation ~ Arrival ~

2009-07-25T13:08:00.002-04:00

We have arrived safe and sound to Gatlinburg. We left our house a little after 12:30 am and headed to Larry's to drop off the work computers. Then made a big old U Turn back to our house when I realized I had forgotten the camera cord and more importantly--- my CHI! So we finally got on the road about 1:30.

Gavin put the Transformers movie in the DVD player and Katelyn fell asleep about 1/2 later. My night owls Gavin and Danyelle stayed up and watched the whole movie before finally falling asleep.

We were in Georgia when I woke up around 7, the kids woke up around 9 and then we stopped for breakfast.

The rest of our drive was so pretty through the mountains. And don't ask how Ken got us here around 1130am, when I know it takes 12 hours to get here!!

So right now, we have checked in to our villa and are waiting for our room to be done. We are hanging out in the clubhouse. There is a pool table, video games, and a ping pong table. Ken, Gavin, and Danyelle are playing ping pong and Katelyn is trying to put a puzzle together between running up and down the stairs of this 3-story clubhouse. I cant even post the pictures I've taken so far because that darn cord that we went back for is somewhere in the back of the car right now! Pics and updates to come!

Happy 7th Birthday Gavin

2009-07-10T01:00:00.000-04:00

Happy 7th Birthday Gavin! My sweet little baby boy. I cannot believe 7 years has gone by since I first held you in my arms. I've watched you grow from a baby and toddler who needs me all the time to a very independent 7-year-old.

I absolutely love the little person that you have become. You have a huge heart and love your sisters more than words. And you tell them all the time. My day is almost always filled with hugs and kisses from you for no reason.

You have a true love for every singe sport and aren't afraid to try out new things. I love watching you discover new things and the happiness you get from each and every day.

You constantly surprise me every single day I spend with you. Whether it be eating sushi with me or explaining something about the computer to me. Every day is a gift that I have with you.

I've said Happy Birthday to you so many times throughout the years, but none of them can truly express how much I mean it.

I love you Gavin! Happy Birthday, Love Mommy

Guitar Hero ~ Nintendo DS ~ Review ~

2009-07-07T22:12:00.001-04:00

The makers of Guitar Hero introduced Guitar Hero On Tour: Modern Hits for the Nintendo DS system. The game features 28 songs, all radio-edits of modern rock hits from bands including Coldplay, Fall Out Boy, Weezer, The Strokes, Sum 41, and Finger Eleven.

Since our house is big fans of Guitar Hero for our Playstation, I was thrilled when MomCentral gave me the opportunity to try out the new Modern Hits for my Nintendo DS.

The system comes with a guitar grip that mimics a guitar fret board and fits right into the side of the DS. And it comes with a pick stylus so you can strum on the touch screen. I only got to play a handful of times before the game was quickly taken over by Danyelle and Gavin. They LOVED it. And the best part of the system is that it has a wireless feature that allows song streaming and multiplayer modes. So when we make our long drive to Tennessee in a couple of weeks Danyelle and Gavin can challenge each other from each of their DS's.

For more information about this new game and to see videos and images of the game go to: http://www.guitarheroontour.com/.

Totally Awesome

2009-07-01T13:44:00.002-04:00

Gavin came out of his room the other day sporting this ensemble:

Some ugly sunglasses cousin Ryan gave him, his new karate headband, and a hat. And then he asked me "Do I look totally awesome or what?"

I had a hard time saying yes.

Our Summer History Lessons

2009-06-27T17:59:00.003-04:00

Got a question about the corrosion of our underground water pipes? Just ask Gavin.

Want to know when the Space Needle is going to fall or when massive flooding will overtake New York? Ask Gavin.

Gavin has a new hobby this summer. He stays up at night watching the History Channel. Last week he watched like 4 hours in a row of the show Life After People. Now he spends his days giving me facts of what is going to happen to the earth when we are no longer here.

Mom, did you know there is going to be a huge wave go over the city and into all the buildings? Yeah, and no people are there just animals. And then the trees and grass grow everywhere and all the buildings come crashing down. Its called the Space Needle, did you know that Mom? And all the animals are really hungry cause no people are here to feed them. So they fight each other. yeah, mom, that's what happens when no people are around. I think it all happens in 1000 years.

Then he watched some show about the underground water system.

Hey mom, did you know we get our water from pipes in the ground? yeah, they are really big and built a long time ago. Sometimes they break too. And water comes up everywhere flooding peoples houses. And the inside of the pipes sometimes gets clogged, its called corrosion mom. All the pipes are really old and could break. Do you think our pipes are going to break mom? Cause I don't want water everywhere in our house cause then we cant live in it. When are the men coming to fix our pipes? Huh mom? When?

I'm starting to wish he would just go back to Spongebob. I cant keep up with these conversations!

Gavin's Purple Belt

2009-06-25T19:24:00.006-04:00

Testing was yesterday in Karate for Gavin. He has been preparing for weeks now to test to get his purple belt. We had been working really hard on Kata #2 which he HAD to know to advance to purple belt. Gavin really struggled with learning all the moves but did awesome during the test last night.

Gavin was presented with his new belt, a headband and a framed certificate.

Gavin with his new headband and belt:

And after testing was over we took Gavin to Rita's to celebrate.

Congratulations on your new belt Gavin! Love you so much, Mommy

Father's Day Gift Guide

2009-06-15T13:36:00.002-04:00

Father's Day is less than a week away. Have you already bought something? Or do you still need great gift ideas?

MomCentral has just compiled their favorite gifts for Dad in Mom Central's Father's Day Gift Guide. From DVDs and custom steak brands to a seven-person domed tent, there is something here for every Dad. Plus, we have organized our gift ideas by price, so there's no reason to break the bank (unless you want to!).

You can find the Father's Day Gift Guide by using this link http://www.momcentral.com/giftguide/fathersday/ .

Also, each day, Mom Central will post giveaways for Dads. Upcoming giveaways include barbeque accessories, a Jeep tent built for 7 people (pictured in the photo at right), CDs, DVDs, books, razors, and so much more. Click HERE to see the daily giveaways.

Thanks MomCentral!

Only 5 Left

2009-06-10T21:15:00.002-04:00

I only have 5 diapers left in the house. So all day today I have had it in my head that I would be going to Target tomorrow to pick up some more.

And then I had a crazy thought.......Don't buy anymore diapers- start potty training now. Ugh. The thought of it terrifies me. But it has to be done I guess lol. When Katelyn starts pre-school again in August she HAS to be potty trained for the class she is in, no exceptions. I was going to wait until closer to August , but I don't think the timing will work out. We are going on our summer vacation the last week of July into the first week of August. Now I don't think I will have enough time to do it after we get back from vacation and I don't want to rush it.

So, wish me luck- I am headed into potty training land tomorrow. Someone help me now with this stubborn little girl!

Florida Road Sign

2009-06-09T17:27:00.002-04:00

CFBA ~ Book Review ~ Ghostwriter

2009-06-09T17:00:00.000-04:00

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
Ghostwriter
FaithWords (May 28, 2009)
by
Travis Thrasher

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

It was during third grade after a teacher encouraged him in his writing and as he read through The Narnia Chronicles by C.S. Lewis that Travis decided he wanted to be a writer. The dream never left him, and allowed him to fulfill that dream of writing fulltime in 2007.

Travis Thrasher is the author of numerous works of fiction, including his most personal and perhaps his deepest work, Sky Blue, that was published in summer of 2007. This year he has to novels published, Out of the Devil’s Mouth, and a supernatural thriller, Isolation.

Travis is married to Sharon and they are the proud parents of Kylie, born in November, 2006, and Hailey, a Shih-Tzu that looks like an Ewok. They live in suburban Chicago.

Stop by and visit Travis at his Blog where you can sign up to follow him on Facebook and Twitter!

Also check out the radio interview with Travis on Monday June 8th at BlogTalkRadio/FaithWords

ABOUT THE BOOK

For years Dennis Shore has thrilled readers with his spooky bestselling novels. Now a widower, Dennis is finally alone in his house, his daughter attending college out of state. When he's stricken by a paralyzing case of writer's block and a looming deadline, Dennis becomes desperate. Against better judgment, he claims someone else's writing as his own, accepting undeserved accolades for the stolen work. He thinks he's gotten away with it . . . until he's greeted by a young man named Cillian Reed--the true author of the stolen manuscript.

What begins as a minor case of harassment quickly spirals out of control. As Cillian's threats escalate, Dennis finds himself on the brink of losing his career, his sanity, and even his life. The horror he's spent years writing about has arrived on his doorstep, and Dennis has nowhere to run.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Ghostwriter, go HERE

Haley

2009-06-06T11:24:00.003-04:00

Haley is here for the weekend again since my brother is away at National Guard. We love when Haley gets to stay with us for the weekend. She's a good dog and besides her size, you would never even know she is here.

Except for last night when I almost killed her. We had baaaad storms all night last night and into the morning. The thunder was crazy loud and flashes of lightning kept lighting up my house. And Miss Haley is a BIG BIG BABY. She spent hours running around the house crying because of the thunder. And the click, click, click of her nails on the floor drove me crazy. Then she would run into my room and make a mad dash for the shower. Where she would sit and cry. And what can make you wake up really fast at 4am? A St. Bernard jumping on your bed and landing on you. Yeah, she did that a couple of times too. I have no clue what has happened in her short life that has made her freak the heck out over thunderstorms- but I am praying all is quiet tonight!

Good-Bye 1st Grade

2009-06-02T16:19:00.004-04:00

First Day of School ~ Aug 2008

Last Day Of School ~ June 1st 2009

This morning Gavin was super excited for the last day of school. He said he is looking forward to going to the beach this summer and staying up late watching movies. On the way to school he asked me if we could go through a car wash after I pick him up today. Um, Ok?!?! I guess a car wash is the icing on the cake today. And as of 12:40 this afternoon, I officially have a 2nd grader!

Congratulations Gavin!!

Katelyn's Last Day Of School

2009-05-31T21:47:00.012-04:00

First Day Of School ~ August 2008

Last Day Of School May 2009

Katelyn's last day of pre-school was this past Friday. Her class spend the morning at the park for a good-bye picnic. All the kids, parents, and teachers were there.

Katelyn had a blast playing in the water tables with her friends.

She also spend some time looking at the ducks and hanging out with the girls.

She had fun on the playground too.

After the playground the class gathered for their picnic lunch. Then it was time for some dancing, which is Katelyn's favorite.

All the kids got presents and goody bags from the teachers. Katelyn talked hers over with Lance.

Then posed for some good-bye pictures with Abbe, Lance, and Ella. And gave a good-bye hug to Amelia.

Katelyn absolutely loved going to school this year. She only went 2 days a week but she would have been happy going all 5 days a week. She loved all her friends and talked about them for hours after she got home. When I would pick her up from school she would tell me all about her day. What toys she played with, who she sat next to at snack time, and what she had for a snack. She would fill me in on who was bad that day or if someone got hurt on the playground. She loved to draw pictures and paint. And of course she loves to sing and dance at school. Next year I have her signed up for 3 days a week for school and I'm sure most of the kids she goes with now with move up to that class too.

Rain Forest

2009-05-28T19:45:00.004-04:00

Gavin made this a couple of weeks ago in school and just brought it home today.

Its the Rain Forest complete with a bat hanging from the wall, a poisonous frog, a snake in the tree and a tiger. Oh, and Spiderman.

Somehow I'm not surprised that Gavin found a way to get Spidey in the Rain Forest!

Memorial Day Recap

2009-05-27T17:38:00.008-04:00

Gavin, Katelyn , and I spent the Memorial Day at the beach. For the first time in almost a week the sun was out and it wasn't raining!

My sister Tiffany works at the Hilton right on the beach and she had invited us up there for the day. BIG mistake for her. Little does she know that I will now be there every single day over the summer!!

I got to park in the employee parking lot, so nice. Then we were escorted down to the beach where we got our very own umbrella and chairs- again, so nice.

And have I mentioned the free drinks and ice-cream? Oh yeah, you'll be seeing me all summer Tiff!

The Gavin and Katelyn had a great time making sand castles and making sand pies.

And of course once we got in the water, there was no getting out.

Hope everyone had a wonderful holiday too!

Randomness

2009-05-19T12:38:00.003-04:00

Lets see...... the end of the school year is almost here. And it really cannot come one second too soon. No more fighting with Gavin about homework. No more struggling to get him out of bed in the morning. No more of the back and forth of dropping him off and picking him up from school. No more book reports, projects, and field trips. Sa-weet!

But wait, on the other hand it means that my lovely little boy with be home with me all. day. long. Someone help me now.

Gavin has been , um, how should I put this? A monster that past week or so! Tell him to do something and he stomps his feet around the house and growls. It must be the worst thing in the world to have to put your plate in the sink. Or put back the toys the he took out. But he really gets in trouble when I can hear him mumbling under his breath. Ugh, that goes right through me! Hopefully its just a quick phase he's going through because he might not make it through the summer if this keeps up!

In Katelyn news, we are going to start potty training over the summer. She has her very own little princess potty right now. She showed and interest in learning a couple of months ago so I went out and bought it. As soon as it came home, Katelyn said she was scared and that was the end of it.

I figure summer is a perfect time. We will be home all day, no running out to drop anyone off at school. And she is probably ready now. A couple of days ago she woke up and told me she wanted to wear her Dora underwear.

"No more diapers Mommy". But then changed her mind when the time came.

Yesterday she came up to me and told me she needed to go pee - pee in her princess potty. So we went into the bathroom. Where she took off all her clothes. And sat on her princess potty and giggled. And sang Twinkle Twinkle. And giggled some more. And looked between her legs and said " Pee-Pee where are you?" We played this fun game for like 7 minutes before I told her she was done.

So, anyone have any helpful tips for Gavin? What about potty training?

Neighbor Laday Update

2009-05-15T12:05:00.002-04:00

So I think Neighbor Lady reads my blog.

Tuesday afternoon her kids came over to play and brought over a whole case of juice boxes. Wednesday they came over with a box of crackers. And yesterday they came with homemade cupcakes.

Obviously she got my letter , haha. But it still didn't stop her from letting me know I really shouldn't be running my sprinkler on Saturdays due to the water shortage. The same sprinkler she sends her kids down to play in. Whatever!

Dear Neighbor Lady

2009-05-11T11:27:00.002-04:00

Dear Neighbor Lady,

If you insist on sending your kids to my house to play every single day like clockwork-- lets go over a few things, m'kay?

I don't mind handing out the occasional snack or juice, but sending your kids over starving is getting a bid old.

Am I the only one who thinks a 3-year-old is too young to be wandering the neighborhood?

Maybe you should teach your 3-year-old not to strip naked when he uses my bathroom. I feel kinda funny finding him like that in my kitchen.

If you are going to complain your kid fell off his bike in front of my house then maybe you should have been outside watching him.

9 AM Saturday morning until 3 or 4 in the afternoon is a bit much for your kids to be here. I have not been feeding them lunch- don't you think they are hungry?

If I don't let your kids in the house, please tell them its not polite to stand at my front door looking in the window for the rest of the afternoon.

Leaving the house with my sons toys is not acceptable.

Its bad enough my own kids walk into the bathroom when I am in there- your kids doing it kinda weirds me out.

Are we clear now? kthxbye!

Heard & Overheard

2009-05-04T08:14:00.003-04:00

We are dogsitting Haley again for a couple of days. I woke up this morning at 330am to the sound of Katelyn's blinds being moved around. I assumed Haley was in there trying to look out the window - which she loves to do. Of course this woke Katelyn up and I heard her say " Hay ee- Why you in my room? I seepin- Get out!"
I put Katelyn jammies on her last night around 730. After they were on she looked out the window and said " HEY! Its not dark yet. Get dese things off me!"
After Gavin beat me again in Mario Kart he looked at me so sadly and said " Maybe you shouldn't play anymore Mommy"
When Katelyn couldn't find her tea pot to play tea party I told her to go look in the basket in her room. She walked over to me and patted me on the cheek and said " Good thinking Mommy"

My How He Has Grown!

2009-04-21T21:05:00.005-04:00

Gavin ~ Spring Break 2006 ~

Gavin ~ Spring Break 2009 ~

Omigod- are these cute or what? My baby is so big! Both of the pics were taken outside of Gavin's favorite ride at Disney- Buzz Lightyear. I guess it will be tradition now to take his picture there every time we go from now on.