Our Birthday Girl

Our Katie Grace is turning 2 this week! It's unbelievable to me that our baby could be this age already... Thinking about the day we first laid eyes on her, how tiny she was when they laid her in my arms at the hospital, how fragile she seemed -- when in reality she was a fighter from the start! (Thank you, God!!)

We turned around and she was 1! And then we blinked and she is turning 2! And she's full of mischief and sparkling eyes and loving on her big brother, making her Mommy crazy, all the while having Daddy wrapped completely around her little finger.

We've never been more in love with you, Katie Grace. And yet somehow I think that tomorrow we will wake up and love you a little bit more...Funny how that works!

I thought I'd share a few pictures (a few, haha) of her from the past 2 years, leading up to her big day. Enjoy our beautiful princess! God is so good to us!

Date Night Tonight!

I am so excited -- we are having our date night tonight instead of Tuesday this week, because we are going to Six Flags to see my favorite group -- CASTING CROWNS!! Ahhhh I can't wait! (They are on this blog, they sing the first song, Praise You In This Storm, also they sing Voice of Truth, two of my favorite songs, also Who am I, oh I could go on and on.. hehee)... anyway, they are part of a music festival called Kingdom Bound that is hosted at our Six Flags tonight and we are going to see them. There is a whole other slew of groups going to be there, too, but we are going for CC. Can't wait!!!!!! Oh, I told Brian that while we're there, I want to ride a roller coaster or two as well. :) Miss those days.

Our Little Soccer Star

Simple -- Yet So Profound.

In Sunday School this week the pastor was speaking on 12 Ordinary men.. the 12 disciples. He was talking about how truly ordinary they were before they were "called" by Jesus to follow Him. Some of them were pretty messed up, actually! Hmm, something to think about..

Anyway, we were talking about how similar some of their struggles were to the struggles that some of us deal with in our lives today. And how Jesus said to these men, in the throes of their struggles, "Come." And they went. Wow.

And Jesus says to us:

"Draw near to me and I will draw near to you"

-- meaning all we need to do is be close to Him.. surround ourselves with things of Him.. His Word, His people, His love, even His music -- and He will be close to us. And therein we will find Him........ and His peace.

So simple. Yet so profound.

Patrick's Saturday 6

1. What is your absolute favorite dessert? Brownies, with good vanilla ice cream (like Breiers with little pieces of vanilla bean in it), and warm chocolate sauce on it, and real whipped cream. Heavenly.

2. When is the last time you had it? Umm.. maybe my birthday a year or two ago? Not sure.

3. If you had to give up one of the following for life: cookies, cake, ice cream, pie, or chocolate, which would you choose never to try again? Cake. I could live without cake. Definitely.

4. Take the quiz: What flavor of ice cream are you?

You Are Strawberry Ice Cream

A bit shy and sensitive, you are sweet to the core. You often find yourself on the outside looking in. Insightful and pensive, you really understand how the world works. You are most compatible with chocolate chip ice cream.

What Flavor Ice Cream Are You?

5. If you attempted to make the dessert you like best, how well do you think it would turn out? Oh, I can make a mean brownie, for sure, so I think it would turn out just fine! (Who can mess a brownie up? Seriously. My. Baking. Skills. Are. Pathetic.)

6. If you were going to invent your own flavor of ice cream to be carried by a company like Ben & Jerry’s, what ingredients would you require? Chocolate ice cream for sure, with bits of heath bars, M&Ms, little swirls of fudge, and maybe a few Oreo chunks. I'm all about the crunchies, baby!

Weekend Plans?

Just wondering what everyone has planned this weekend...

We are having a date night in tonight.. we had tacos and put the kids to bed early. We got a movie (Music and Lyrics with Hugh Grant and Drew Barrymore), and plan on just having a good time being together and being quiet after a few really hectic weeks (ok, really more like a few hectic months)...

Tomorrow Jonathan has soccer practice bright and early, and we'll be doing general house stuff -- hopefully the weather will be nice and we'll get to take them in the pool.. I can't believe July is almost over already! What in the world is going on here????? I guess we should be lucky school doesn't start in 2 weeks like some places do...

Sunday is church and Sunday School and then we'll be getting ready for our church's Vacation Bible School, so that will thrust us into a hugely busy week to come.

Anyone else care to share what you've got going on this weekend, into the coming week? I love to know!! :)

Some posts need very few words:

Daddy's Little Sailor:

Vacation Pictures :) (lots!)

Brian and Jonathan at Chocolate World:

Our little Hershey's Kisses:

A Silly Moment:

Mommy and Katie Bug hanging out:


Jonathan is a Hershey Bar:

Me and my BFF:

Daddy and Katie Bug:

Jonathan and G on the Scrambler:

Hanging out waiting for a ride:

Our girl with Jodi:

Daddy and Katie:

A'LaLa and her girl:

Katie in Jonon's hat:

Cuteness:


Takin' a shower:

Bathing Beauty:

Look at me!

Aww! Friends Forever!

Saying Goodbye to our friends :(

Muhahaha:


Sleepy girl (not that she slept that much... sigh)

Yeah. We love being in the car (insert rolling eyes):

Julie's Techno Meme

Cell phones
How long have you had a cell phone? (If you don’t have one, why not? What would prompt you to get one?) I have had my phone for about 8 years or so? I think, give or take a year or two... What prompted me to get one? Umm.. I told Brian I needed a phone for "emergencies" ;)


How much do you use it? I use it constantly... so much, in fact, that Brian has to up my cell phone plan to more minutes... because, I need more! (I told him that in the beginning, but did he listen?? No...)


Do you get jittery without it? Yes! I need to be "connected" at all times...


Computers
How many computers in your house? One


How does the time break down? (work/play/email/blogs/etc.) Email - 1/3, Boards/Chat friends - 1/3, Blogs -1/3

If your computer malfunctions, do you-
Log in as root and fix the problem in a few swift keystrokes?
Get some online help and fix it yourself with slightly slower keystrokes?
Enlist outside help? from whom? How does he or she respond when you ask for assistance?
Opt for the wishful thinking computer repair strategy, also known as the reboot-with-fingers-crossed strategy?
I get some online help and try to fix it myself.... If I can't I call tech support, if that doesn't help I have a friend from church who has helped me out a few times... can't go long without my computer! :)


Meta
What techno-gadget would you most like to own? iPod.. hands down, no doubt about it!
Of those you own (including PDA, iPod, etc.), which you miss most acutely if you dropped it in the lake accidentally while canoeing? I'd miss my iPod the most if I had one!

What’s something you’ll never buy? I would buy anything if I had the money (not a good steward I guess!) But I love technology and I love to play around with all the gadget-y stuff! I think I'm a nerd!) ;) Or is it that I wish I was one? ;)

The Friday Five

That's Entertainment!

1. What is your all time favorite book? My favorite book of all time is My Sisters Keeper by Jodi Picoult. I've never had a book affect me more.

2. What is your all time favorite movie? Singin' in the Rain

3. What are you reading right now? A Bend in the Road by Nicholas Sparks

4. What is your favorite show on tv? Grey's Anatomy

5. What is the last movie you saw in the theater? Shrek 3


http://community.livejournal.com/thefridayfive/

Back from Vacation!

.... and thrust into the throes of summer! JD is doing VBS this week, he's started right into soccer, and I'm doing MOPS stuff this week, like our retreat, and just getting back with our friends and family since being away...

Busy busy busy! Life is crazy yet good... we had a busy vacation, but it was fun and full. These little ones definitely keep us hopping! (Especially the little one, lol!!)

The summer is in full swing for sure and we're hoping to get full use out of everything -- the pool, friends, family, and fun...

If I'm not here much, it's because life is full of demands, and it's hard to be on the computer when there are so many things going on outside..

I hope everyone is enjoying their summer and if there is anything exciting to post about you can be sure I'll be right on it!

Hugs to all!

~Cath

Shopping for our trip!!

Today I met Laura at the mall and we went shoe shopping for our vacation, which, I am excited to report, is in 4 days!!! We are so looking forward to it. But I digress.. More to come about that.

Anyways. The time to meet was 10:30. We were to meet outside the Skechers outlet at our big outlet mall. Now, note this: Laura and I are never, ever on time. To anything. Ever. But this day, today, it shall we noted that Laura was actually early! And Cath was on time!!!!! (What did you expect, we were going shopping and both of us had no kids with us... a rare and beautiful occasion indeed, and we both truly understood the unique-ness of this day.)

Hmm. I wonder if it had something to do with the numbers today? 7-7-07? Everyone felt the need to point that out to us wherever we went today. Not sure...

Anyway.. we were in shoe Heaven in Skechers, and took our time trying on shoes, complimenting each other on our beautiful feet, and how gorgeous they looked in each pair of shoes we tried on, and talked about you, Care, and how much fun it would be if you could be with us, especially in the shoe store! ;)

We then went inside the mall (after I bought the cahh-uutest shoes there) and I proceeded to buy the following:
1) a new pair of capris (in my new size!! Go me!)
2) 2 new tee- shirts
3) a cute new halter top for katie at Old Navy
4) a hoodie for Katie at Old Navy
5) new shoes and socks for Katie at Stride Rite (omg so cute. tee-straps in PINK)
6) another new shirt for Katie at Childrens Place (to match Laura's G's.. we *had* to get them matching outfits for Hershey this year!! Had to!!)
7) A bottle of water for me
8) A cup of coffee for Laura

And lots of lots of laughing, and conversation..

I'd say we were a success.... the only problem was.. I'd have to come home and face Brian with the total of what I'd spent... Eeek!!!

It was a day well spent!!! Adventures in Shopping!!!!! :) :)

Fun with Friends/Updated with a few pictures :)

This weekend was spent with friends... old and new, from near and far. Suzanne and her beautiful daughter came to see my BFF and I from Long Island, and we just had 4 days of glorious girlfriend time. We had the best time taking the kids to an amusement park, taking them swimming, jumping on the trampoline (no comment, Laura, you mean thing, butt bouncer)... going out for Buffalo wings and apple-tinis, hanging out in the hotel room that last night...I think that might have been my favorite time of all...

We threw in a trip to Erie PA to meet up with some other friends (love you gerz!) and all of our miracle babies and we had a wonderful time of talking, laughing, baby holding, picture taking, and of course ended with a few tears shed as the time is always too short, and the distance is a little too far.

I thank God for you girls... what a wonderful weekend. I was sad to see the weekend end, but feel so very blessed to call each of you my friends. I love you all!!!

xoxoxoxo

PS: I will post a few pictures here of our weekend after I ask permission to do so. :-)

Me and Suzanne:..............Suz and Laura:

And our darlings watching "fireworks" out the hotel window: (We think it was the lights from the cars on the thruway but didn't have the heart to tell them):

OK i can't post this one yet because i haven't gotten permission from Suzanne, but I promise to as soon as I do.. sorry for the tease!! (this was the holdup, Carebear! Sorry honey!! xoxox)

Date Night In

Tonight was date night -- we decided to do it "in" this week. It was so HOT outside, we couldn't think of anywhere we'd rather be then in our air conditoned house, and in our own pool. So we took the kids over to my sister's house and picked up subs and Mike's hard lemonade and came home again. We had a picnic on the floor in the family room (hey, it was hot out!) and then went outside to drink in the late afternoon sun and warm up a bit before the pool.

I have to say, having date night is really fun. Not only do we have fun making the plans for it, but we also have something to look forward to after the weekend, and also, we're really enjoying the actual night! It feels like we're carefree again -- for these few hours -- kid-less, worry-free, and enjoying each other's company... who could ask for more? I think this might just be working!

I'm liking it!!! :) :)

Date Night Update {updated again in comments for details}

Well, we had a nice night out... we ended up at Cinco De Mayo.. a good authentic mexican place and had a lot of good conversation, which is honestly what we've been missing.

Karianne, the food *was* good, albeit a little spicy for this mild girl!! hehee I think I might have enjoyed the margarita a little more then the ... uhhh.. what did I order...??? Seriously!

The best outcome of the night -- we have now established that Tuesday nights (at least all summer) will be our official date night. My wonderful sister has so graciously offered to sit for JD and KG each and every week for a few hours so that we can have some much needed time alone. So all of your suggestions will be put to use, all of them.. going to the free concerts, going for walks by the water, all of it, oh and I thought of another one! Shakespeare in the Park.. that's also free. I can't wait to reconnect with my husband.. I'm looking forward to a summer of dates and conversation and maybe even some kissing! Who'd have thought? ;)

Hugs,
Cath

Graduation Day

Jonathan David: 1st Grader!

Well, today my little guy graduated from Kindergarten! I swear, last night was Parents Night when we went in to meet the teacher, and got our list of things to buy for his first year of "real school"... and today we said goodbye to his teacher and his little friends. And he's a first grader. I'm in total shock at how fast this year went. How did 10 months fly this way? How did my little man, who I held for the first time in my arms at what seems to be only a few minutes ago, become this great big boy now, almost too big for my lap? Life is truly moving at break-neck speed! I want it to s l o w down for a little bit. Just a touch. Just a tiny bit. I feel like it's going so fast I can't enjoy the time I have with them, because I'm constantly turning around in a circle -- slowly-- just watching them change so quickly.

Here are a few pictures of my little (big) man from today, and also just a few of him as a baby... I can't help it, I'm feeling like a Misty Mommy today and I want to share.. I hope you enjoy these as much as I am.....

Date Night

Well, even though it's only a Tuesday!! B and I are going out tonight for a mid-week date. Remember my S-O-S post a few ago? Asking for a few ideas to keep it fresh? Well, we (read: I) decided that it was time to put some of that into practice! So, I got a sitter for tonight (thanks to my sister!) and we're going out for dinner. Just for some much needed face time. Not to mention I need out of this house!!!! (Sorry for the yelling...)...

Hopefully tonight will be the start of something wonderful, and regular... and something we'll be able to continue, if not every week, at least every other. I miss my husband..I miss me...I miss the way things were.. I'm hoping to put a little of us back together and make it good again! .... I'm really trying.

I'll give an update later.

Happy Tuesday night to everyone!

Hugs,
Cath

Accents

I'm intrigued by accents. I know, you're telling me "I don't have an accent, you do".. haha.. but when I talk to people from around the country, and thanks to the internet, I have friends all over!..I get to hear a variety of sounds and words coming through the air waves. I love it!

Yesterday I actually got a phone call from a dear friend in England! (Love you!) That was an amazingly special treat. When I heard her voice, she said, "3 guesses, Love", and of course, I screamed into the phone, {most likely shattering her ear drum in the meantime} "Elllieeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!!!!!!!!"

So while I was browsing around at Patrick's Place (someone really needs to help me figure out how to put the direct link in here? Please? anyone?).. anyways, I was delighted to find this quiz. I thought it was fun to do this today especially since I was just thinking about this yesterday, and commenting on Ellie's accent to her.

What kind of accent do you have? Take this quiz:

http://www.youthink.com/quiz.asp?action=take&quiz_id=9827

Here are my answers: Oh, and by the way: I've always said we sound just like the people on TV here.. and now this proves it!! heheee

My Results:


Northern

You have a Northern accent. That could either be the Chicago/Detroit/Cleveland/Buffalo accent (easily recognizable) or the Western New England accent that news networks go for.

Patrick's Saturday Six

1. Have you ever talked to your doctor about stress levels in your life? Absolutely.. several times as a matter of fact :)

2. How likely are you to “let go” of something that stresses you out?

Hmm.. it takes a lot of prayer, so not that likely I guess.

3. Does your family or your work cause the most stress in your life? Do you think your family members or co-workers realize how much stress they generate?

At the moment I am a stay at home mom.. but even so, I would say family members.. not my immediate family (not husband and kids).. I love my family dearly but they can be stressful!! No they don't realize it bless their hearts!

4. Take the quiz: Will You Live to 100?

Chance You'll Live to 100: 63%

100 is looking pretty likely for you right now. You've made your health a priority.So kick back, keep doing what you're doing, and enjoy the great life you've made for yourself.And you might get to see what the world is like 70, 80, or even 90 years from now.

http://www.blogthings.com/willyouliveto100quiz/">Will You Live to 100?

5. When you think that you are at the breaking point, are you more likely to have an angry blow-up, a self-contained meltdown, or something in between? When was the last time you had such a moment?

Hmm.. it varies.. but before it gets too bad, I might be a little snippy.. and then if it's really bad, I get really quiet and too myself (right girls? --I know this drives you crazy!)

6. When you’re stressed out, what is the first clue someone who knows you well is likely to pick up on?

Laura and Carrie..they notice me withdrawing.. my mom and sister know too, but these two besties do know me better then anyone in my life. Even my man. I love you two. xoxo

This is taken from Patrick over at http://patricksweekender.blogspot.com/

A Slumber Party!

Well this week B went away, so the kids and I have been alone since Tuesday night. (Maybe why I've been MIA)...He just got home this evening so guess where I am tonight...yep! Updating my playlist, blogging, surfing, relaxing.. ahhh, this is the life! Tomorrow is Fathers Day so I don't have a leg to stand on as far as that goes.. but tonight.. tonight is mine! *happy sigh*

Anyway -- last night my bestie Laura and her daughter G came over to spend the night -- we had a slumber party! Now, if I were a good mom/auntie, I would have about 376 photos to post right now of all the adorable moments.. i.e. the 3 of them jumping on the trampoline, running around the backyard with their sweet little flushed cheeks, JD and G sitting at the kitchen table drawing together and singing their lungs out, KG fresh from the bath with her little damp kissable head, the two big ones making their own ice cream sundaes, complete with whipped cream, sprinkles, and cherries.. the 3 of them this morning with their little bed heads swinging together on the deck swing .. So many precious moments, should have been recorded on camera for all time... ummm, and Laura and I, normally the paparazzi, neither one of us having our cameras. B took his with him on the trip, and Laura forgot hers on the charger at home. We sucketh. *sigh*

But it was a really fun night, and they all slept (which is good because you *know* we're doing this again next year when he goes away, A'LaLa)-- but next year, we will have our cameras!!!!!!!

The Voice of Truth

So.. God's been working on me lately. There's just been some icky *stuff* going on with me lately, and, once again, I've been listening to the lies fed me by the enemy, brought to me in many, many forms. I've always struggled with myself -- I know a lot of women that do -- and I've definitely stuffed the negative esteem issues as I've gotten older. I've just told myself that with maturity came confidence. And to a point, that's been true.

But satan has gotten to me again. He always knows how to do it. And lately I've been struggling again with finding my true identity. I know the only place I will find my true "self" is in Christ. He defines me. HE died on the cross, shed His precious blood so that I might have life. That alone makes me have worth beyond comprehension. That is amazing.

These song lyrics are by a group I like called Casting Crowns.. and it talks about what voice are we going to listen to? Lately I've definitely had a hard time listening to God's voice.. which truly is, the voice of TRUTH.

Voice of Truth

Oh,what I would do
To have the kind of faith it takes
To climb out of this boat I'm in
Onto the crashing waves
To step out of my comfort zone
Into the realm of the unknown
Where Jesus is,
And he's holding out his hand

But the waves are calling out my name
and they laugh at me
Reminding me of all the times
I've tried before and failed
The waves they keep on telling me
time and time again
"Boy, you'll never win,
you'll never win."

but the voice of truth tells me a different story
the voice of truth says "do not be afraid!"
and the voice of truth says "this is for my glory"
out of all the voices calling out to me
i will choose to listen and believe the voice of truth

Oh, what I would do
to have the kind of strength it takes
To stand before a giant
with just a sling and a stone
Surrounded by the sound
of a thousand warriors
shaking in their armour
Wishing they'd have had the strength to stand

But the giant's calling out
my name and he laughs at me
Reminding me of all the times
I've tried before and failed
The giant keeps on telling me
time and time again
"Boy you'll never win,
you'll never win."

but the stone was just the right size
to put the giant on the ground
and the waves they don't seem so high
from on top of them looking down
i will soar with the wings of eagles
when i stop and listen to the sound of jesus
singing over me

But the voice of truth tells me a different story
The voice of truth says do not be afraid
And the voice of truth says this is for my glory
Out of all the voices calling out to me (calling out to me)
I will choose to listen and believe
I will choose to listen and believe the voice of truth

I will listen and believe...

8 Random Things

I got tagged by Karianne over at Practicing Contentment for this Meme.


Here are the rules:

1. I have to post these rules before I give you the facts.
2. Each player starts with eight random facts/habits about themselves.
3. People who are tagged need to write their own blog about their eight things and post these rules.
4. At the end of your blog, you need to choose eight people to get tagged and list their names.
5. Don’t forget to leave them a comment telling them they’re tagged, and to read your blog.


1) Firstly, my initial thought upon getting tagged for this Meme was that I was worried about getting 8 people to tag for it!!! (I mean, really worried, LOL)

2) I love the beach. I wish I could live at the beach. The sound of the water soothes me, and I love the feel of the sand on my feet.

3) Ironically, I hate being hot! So if I have to be outside, I need to be near the water, or it can't be that hot outside, so that I don't get too hot.

4) I'm very girly -- don't like bugs, sticky fingers, or icky gooey messes. Love hugs, flowers, and chocolate.

5) I sometimes feel like I still haven't found my niche' in this big old world.. and keep looking...

6) I love seafood but feel like I can't get any good stuff because we don't live on the coast.

7) I have my ears pierced but rarely wear any earrings.

8) I have worn fake toenails and they look good! (OK that was probably a TMI but that is one of the things I knew nobody would even believe!!!! LOL!!)


OK I definitely don't have 8 people to tag, but I will tag who I can:

1) Lisa

2) Mandee

3) Julie

4) Mert

Only 4!! Oh well, hopefully I'll get more blog friends yet!! ;)

Patrick's Saturday Six

These are taken from Patrick over at http://patricksweekender.blogspot.com/ and these are his questions...

1. What do you consider more important to your long-term happiness: your relationships, your location, your career or your dreams? This is a no-brainer for me.. Things aren't as important as people in my life, so for me, it's my relationships.

2. Other than a significant other, how many people do you feel you can truly turn to for advice? I have 2 people that I confide in and tell my everything to -- the good, the bad, and the oh so ugly. (I'm sorry, girls)

3. Of the people you think know you best, how surprised would you think they would be if they knew “everything” there is to know about you? For the most part, my life is wide open for anyone to look into and see whatever is going on. But only God knows the heart. And thankfully, He loves us despite our shortcomings.

4. Take the quiz:

Your Life is 45% Off Track

Right now, you're taking things one day at a time. Some things are going well, but you can't help but wonder if you're getting the most out of life. It's time for you to slow down and reflect a little. You can change your life - but it's up to you!

Are You Living The Wrong Life?

5. What is the longest you’ve stayed in a job you weren’t happy in? Not long enough to remember :)

6. What single factor made you stay the most? Probably the money, or just not knowing what to do next :)

Keeping it Fresh

So, B and I are trying to keep it fresh in our marriage.. you know.. things are getting a little same ole, same ole around here (well, it has been 11 years ;) ).. so we need some fresh ideas about what to do. Basically we have our "date night in" every weekend, which consists of putting the kids to bed early on Saturday night and watching a movie that we rent from Blockbuster online.. and can I just say? Uhh, that's getting a little old. I'm looking for new ideas. Unfortunately for us, money is an object. Fortunately though, it's summertime and there are things to be done outside that are low cost ideas. But I need some! (ideas that is)... What can I plan for me and my husband to do that can help us reconnect in a fresh, romantic way that won't break the bank? I'm talking real dates, here, sans kids.

Thanks for your ideas, girls!!

Hugs to all!
Cath

OK I know, I know...

I need to stop with the memes... LOL... I promise I will.. It's just now that I've found them, they seem to be pouring in from all corners of the web! heehee.. I will. I'll take a break from all the memes for a few days. I promise!!

Back to our regular scheduled programming folks!! Hope everyone is having a fabulous weekend!

Hugs!

Cath

Unconscious Mutterings

Taken from Wil at http://subliminal.lunanina.com/um/ind/week_226/

I say, you think...?

1. Savage :: Beast

2. Warrior :: Legolas (the cute elf from Lord of the Rings -- Orlando Bloom's guy)

3. Daisy :: Duck

4. Schedule :: Frantic

5. Rock, paper, scissors :: Guy thing

6. Medical :: Scary

7. Jade :: Stone

8. Elevator :: Claustrophic

9. Drain :: Tired

10. Goldfish :: Crackers

Fun Meme from Mert :) (not sure of the name)

This one is from Mert's blog taken from here: http://almostsomewhatpositive.blogspot.com/ (I'm sorry I don't know how to put it in here without the whole kit and caboodle.. if anyone wants to tell me how to do that, that would be great) ;-)


What were you doing 10 years ago? 10 years ago I was a newlywed loving life. We were both working full time and we had no debt, a cute adorable little house, no kids, and truly life was complete bliss. (not that having kids hasn't been bliss!) But we were free to go wherever we wanted, whenever we wanted.. it was amazing. The first 5 years of marriage were incredible. We acted like lovesick honeymooners for 5 years. Seriously.


What were you doing 1 year ago? I was stressing over JD starting Kindergarten, and crying complete buckets over him being done being at home with me. And I was fretting over KG turning 1, but planning a princess birthday party.


Five snacks you enjoy 1) Air popped Popcorn 2) Crackers and hummus 3) Veggies and Homemade Dill dip 4) Pretzels and Dip 5) Chips and Salsa



Five songs that you know all the lyrics to: Twinkle Twinkle Little Star, Down By the Bay, Be Still and Know that He Is God, Our God is an Awesome God, Lord I Lift Your Name On High


Five things you would do if you were a millionaire: 1) Pay off our debt 2) Pay off my sister's debt 3) Buy my sister and parents both a new car 4) Buy my sister a house 5) Completely renovate our home


Five bad habits: 1) Drinking waaaay too much coffee 2) Forgetting to eat breakfast and not eating until like 3pm 3) Spending too much time on the computer 4) Being unorganized 5) Letting my priorities get out of order


Five things you like doing: 1) Laughing 2) Having Girls Night Out (or in, whatever) 2) Talking on the Phone 3) Hanging out on the computer 4) Spending time w/my husband "Cleaning the bedroom" ;-) 5) Reading a great book

Five things you would never wear again: 1) A Banana clip (anyone? anyone??) 2) Zubaz pants (again, anyone with me?) 3) a side ponytail 4) Legwarmers 5) safety pins on the bottoms of my jeans {Please tell me anyone understands any of what I just said}


Five favorite toys: 1) My computer, for sure! 2) My cellphone 3) that's it. 4) cellphone, and 5) computer! That's all folks!! ;)

Jule, Carrie, Lisa, Mert, and Karianne, THANK YOU

Thank you so much to you girls who responded to my post the other day that was crying out for help. You girls, each one of you, made me feel so much better about my parenting my littlest one.

Julie, thank you for reassuring me that it's OK to put her in the "cage" (lol).. You are right about them needing to develop the skill to self-entertain. I had totally forgotten about that because JD did that all on his own from the very beginning. I did it the very next day and the morning was so smooth I couldn't believe how great it went. Great advice (and I turned off the guilt too! It felt great!)

Carrie -- thanks for your input as well. Even though we've talked at length about this on the phone, knowing that you've been through this w/S makes me feel not quite so alone. Thank you for your love and encouragement through all of this (all of everything!)

Lisa, oh Lisa.. I love that I can look to you with your older girl and know that you've been through so much of what I'm going through, and will go through. It's so encouraging. Thanks for your words of wisdom, honey, and for your love and care.

Mert! Thank you for your helpful advice as well.. you are a new friend and I value your input as well. It sounds as if you're going through some of the very same things I am and you really have some good points. In fact, today I did indeed open up the Tupperware cupboard and let her have at it..she was in Tupperware Heaven and she was so much happier today and so was I.. I was not stressed about the mess.. the rest of the house looked great, so what was a little plastic around the kitchen? ;)

Karianne -- you are a doll and I loved all of your ideas. I think you might be right. Being a mother of a girlie is totally different then being a mom of a boy isn't it? *sigh* But it's all good! It's been my dream my whole life to have a daughter and well, sometimes the dream has to be adjusted to the personality and that's OK! ;) Thank you for all the great suggestions about tidying up the house -- what great, attainable goals you give yourself. I will definitely be using your suggestions. Love ya back!!

All of you -- thank you for your love and support. It means more then you could ever possibly know.

xoxoxoox
Cath :-)

Parenting Dilemma

Hey everyone -- I have a tiny (OK not so tiny) dilemma with my tiny one. Lately she's been, well, difficult. To say the least. I love her so much, that goes without saying, but I will say it anyway. I am feeling major mother's guilt, and I need to know how you handle or have handled this in the past with your little strong willed ones.

Let me give an example. Little KG loves to be in control. Normal, right? of a toddler aged girl. She's very strong willed. Well, lately, and I'm talking over the past several weeks, my sweet girl who would love me and kiss me and hug me and say "I love you, Mommeeee", sing with me, smile at me, the whole deal.. nothing. It's all about yelling at me, short blasts of nastiness with a look of defiance in her eyes, her little head bobbing to one side. (And that's just for starters)... It's killing me. I know they all go through phases. She's had them before. I remember phases during teething when she'd not be as happy, and be more whiny, etc. But this? This is all day long of no smiles at me. I truly feel like she doesn't like me. I know this is emotions talking, and I've had a rough few months, both health wise and emotion wise -- but I'm truly afraid that this is the case. She will not, will not hug me. She never wants me. She wants her daddy. She wraps her arms around his neck and squeezes on him. She wants her brother. She "gugs" him all the time. It's just me she doesn't seem to like. I have heard of mothers and daughters who just never get along. Is this a possibility that this could be happening to me and my precious little girl? I fear for the future when she is a tween, then a teen..

OK, that's not all .... I'm definitely dealing with major issues myself. Major. I look around my house and all I see right now is chaos. I could spend all day long doing the daily "maintenance" things and I feel as if I never get ahead. One of the biggest reasons is that Little Miss Tiny leaves chaos in her wake. She literally strews her toys all over the first floor of the house. If I put her down in the family room (huge room, baby proofed, lots of toys, and she can see everything I'm doing in the kitchen, and it's gated off)-- she gets mad and I feel all guilt. Total guilt. B thinks it's totally OK to put her down there to play, he says it's completely OK and that she will get used to it. Then I can start to get my house in order (it is not at the moment and it's killing me).. I feel like once I get completely organized and have a system in place I will be a better wife, mom, person, everything. When I'm unloading the dishwasher she is right there like a little tornado, rummaging through the clean (or dirty) dishes, taking them right out. It's not enough to wait to save it all for nap time. Nothing ever gets done this way. I need some help and some advice....

Please give me your thoughts. Help me to alleviate my guilt about putting her in "the cage" as I think of it.. or please, give me some other ideas at least. I'm getting worn out and I don't know what to do anymore.

Signed,
One Worn Out Mommy

Another fun one!

Karianne is keeping me well supplied with memes.. thanks girl! You're the best!

Here is another one.. this one comes from Christine at http://www.arewethereyetmom.com/

1)Have I ever been arrested? No. But one time a police officer stopped when I was at an overlook in the car with my boyfriend and I was mortified!!!!!!!


2)Do I sing in the car? I sing all the time with everything! So yes, I sing in the car. We don't need the radio to sing.. we sing inSTEAD of the radio. B, JD, and I sang all the way home from my sisters house the other day. We thought we sounded GOOOD!! LOL "Take it on the road good!!!"

3)Do I wear a watch? Umm, no I do not. That would be why I'm usually 5 minutes late to everything!!

4) Do I brush my teeth before I go to bed? YES!


5) Have I ever had a professional massage? No :(

6) Have I ever bought anything off an Infomercial? Yes, I bought the Tae-Bo tapes off an Info-mercial a longgg time ago. They're still around here somewhere!

7) Have I ever been in a long distance relationship? I tried it once, with my high school boyfriend. He went away to college. Broke up with me 2 weeks later. Had a new girl home for Christmas. He married her. Fat-headed arse.


8) Do your family eat together as a family? Yes, we do, I'd say 95% of the time. It's important to us. The days that we don't are the days that I'm going out to eat with my girlfriends (I do that about two or three times a month) and they wing it here).

Just Because....

My Ballerina Baby....

My Girl

I can't believe how much she's changed in one year.. I mean, I see her everyday, a thousand moments, so it's hard for me to see the changes in her. I look at her, and I hear her talk to me, I see her smile, I watch her interact with her brother. I see her yell at us (lol).. she has a mind of her own, and on some level, for that I am grateful. I am glad she is strong. I am just praying that we can help her channel her strength into more positive ways... hehee

She is my daughter, and I love her with every ounce of myself, with every breath in my body. I love this tiny girl, and all of the sunshine she brings to my life. She makes my life one very much worth living.

Last summer:






And today:

A Sad Realization

Today I spent the day with family away from home (read: away from the computer). When I got home, in between getting the kids ready for bed, unloading the dishwasher, listening to phone messages, and doing any innumerable other tasks, I jumped on here to check.. what.. email? My message boards? Our stocks? The weather? No. I had to see if Karianne had posted a new post on her blog, or if Carrie had, or Julie..you get the picture. I'm addicted to blogging. This is all your fault, girls!! hahahaa.. How did this whole world exist and I never knew it???? How did it live without me checking in so often? :::sigh::: I love the Blogger World.. it's the bestest!!! 8-) Love you girls! Keep on blogging so I can feed my addiction, please!! xoxoxoxo
~Cath ;-)

Keychains and other ramblings

Well, Katie Grace loves to play with all of my things. There is no doubt about that. Usually it's my headbands or my sunglasses (she calls all of that stuff "pretties" ) -- but her latest quest has been my big bunch of keys. I have all sorts of keyrings on there -- a special "Mom" keyring that Jonathan and I got from the Butterfly Conservatory when we went there with his Pre-K class. There was a beautiful one that my bestie Laura brought back from SanFran when she visited her sister Dana. There was a few others that I can't remember... why can't I remember you ask? Well, I believe KG deposited them in the garbage. The one that got taken out to the curb and hauled away by the men in the blue industrial suits and then taken to the dump. I have searched the whole house over and have not found them.. so I have given up looking for them. So today I finally bought myself two cute new keychains.. One says "#1 Mom" and the other says "Each day is a gift from GOD".. Both are true! (I have to believe the one about the Mom even though my kids are little and don't get an opinion about that), and the other is true. My days have been dark as of late and I'm choosing to believe that each day is a precious gift given to us by the One who has breathed life into each of us. He is amazing and wonderful and He is good.

"Two" Meme by Karianne

Two Names You Go By:
1. Mommy
2. Honey

Two Things You Are Wearing Right Now:
1. White Shorts
2. Lime Green Tank (with sparklies on the chest)

Two Things You Want in a Relationship:
1. Security
2. Stability

Two of Your Favorite Things to do:
1. Read, uninterupted (either online or a real book)
2. take a nap in the quiet

Two Things You Want Very Badly At The Moment:
1. to feel better :-/
2. to feel joy again

What 2 pets you had/have:
1. Sandie, our big sand colored spoiled cat (so cute)
2. Hershey Bar, our collie we had growing up (so precious)

Two people who will fill this out first: I’ll tag…
1. Carrie
2. Julie

Two things you did last night:
1. Spent much needed time alone
2. Went to bed early

Two people who live at your house:
1. Jonathan
2. Katie Grace

Two things you ate today:
1. Dry Toast
2. Coffee

Two people you talked to last:
1. Brian
2. My sister, Becky

Two things you’re doing tomorrow:
1. Church
2. Hopefully spending some good family time together

Two Favorite Holidays:
1. Christmas
2. 4th of July

Two favorite beverages:
1. Diet Pepsi with Lemon (my own lemon squeezed in)
2. Diet Peach Snapple (so good.. now I want some Kari!)

3 X Wednesday

Here comes another one -- (shh, it's supposed to read 3 x Thursday, but I won't tell if you won't, heehee)

OK, here are the 3 questions. Play along by answering them in your comments here and then do them in your own blog (if you want!)

Hugs!
Cath

1. Favorite TV show?
2. Seen any good movies lately? If so, what?
3. Favorite album? What are you really in to right now?


1. My favorite TV show if by far Grey's Anatomy. I loooove it so much. Followed closely by Dancing with the Stars (yes, I am admitting this) and then American Idol. Go Jordin! Whoohoo!

2. Husband and I have actually sat down together to watch a few good movies lately. Totally unexpected, because a) I picked the movies, and I usually sucketh at the picking out, and b) I am not so much into watching movies. I'd so much rather sit here and read or write or read a book {um, that's if there is free time, mind you} OK, back to the subject at hand. We saw The Prestige and both liked it. Then we saw Plain Truth -- both very good movies, the latter is a Lifetime movie that we got from Netflix and I would recommend. About Amish people (therefore the title "Plain" as in the "plain" people), and The Prestige was just really a good story, about 2 magicians, and had a few twists.. a good psychological twister that we both enjoyed. If you haven't seen them I'd say go for it!

3. Favorite album : I'm always going with Selah. They are always my favorite. But if I ever figure out how to get my Playlist on this Blog (anyone? anyone?) you will hear another favorite of mine: Steven Curtis Chapman "Be Still and Know that He is God" -- also love Martina! (who doesn't?) And Josh Groban and Carrie Underwood... I love music.

I need some health advice

I'm not sure how many people are actually reading my blog yet, but if you are reading here, I need some advice.

A little background. I am generally a healthy person. I've spent the last year and a half trying to eat healthier, lost a goodly amount of weight, I drink a lot of water, I definitely don't exercise like I should, but I am what I call moderately active. (I have a 1 1/2 year old.. need I say more?) I rarely get sick, except I do get migraines, but I wouldn't call that unhealthy -- those started after my pregnancy with my son and have been fairly regular since, so I'm assuming they have something to do with hormone levels or something of the sort.

Now, all of the sudden, out of the blue it seems -- in the past 5 months, I have been hit with illness. I have had intestinal flu 3 times since Christmas -- horrible vomiting and diarrhea, the kind that really flattens you on your back and makes you feel as if you are at death's door for a few days, and then you make your weak and shaky comeback and then after about a week and a half you start to join the land of the living again. And you can't even remember how badly you felt, and you don't really have to, because in another, oh, say 3 weeks or so, you're reminded because it strikes AGAIN. Then AGAIN. Then oh, surely the doggone flu must be gone far away never to return, and you are slammed with a cold that turns into the worst sinus infection of your life.. the kind that swells up half your face and you think this time you WILL die.

Something must be wrong.. 4 major illnesses in almost as many months.. What is going on? What can I do to boost my immune system? I did buy that DanActive yogurt today, so we'll see if that helps.. but does anyone else have any other ideas for me? I'm desperate and will take any and all advice!!

Thanks,
Cath

23 Days

and counting. That's how many full days are left in the school year here. Then my little guy will be a *gulp* first grader??? How in the world? This ride is going at an alarming, break-neck speed, and I want to get off! Now! I had such a hard time with him starting Kindergarten, but then it happened. And it was wonderful. Wonderful! His teacher is incredible. We couldn't have asked for a better first time in school experience. His response to school has been very positive, as well (except for that early in the morning wake up, but who likes that? Seriously.) All around, it's been nothing short of GREAT. So now what? I have to get all unsettled again, get all nervous again, waiting for the next teacher, the next grade, knowing that now it will be "real school" -- just typing this out is giving me the butterflies. Ohh, being the mom is hard sometimes. Why can't they stay little just a little while longer? :-(

A new beginning

This week the sun has been shining. That is not a little accomplishment for our corner of the world, and the winter has seemed to be very, very long this year. There were days when I didn't think the sun would ever shine again. This morning as I awoke to the birds happily chirping outside my window and the sun shining yet again, I was able to to turn my face toward the warmth of it and thank God, so much, from the very bottom of my spirit, for the sunshine.

As I put JD on the bus early this morning, and saw his little face smiling at me from the window, and waved goodbye and blew him a kiss, I felt it. I felt the bubble that starts deep within your heart and slowly rises -- it comes from deep down and makes it way up to the top, and comes out in a big smile, a burst of a giggle, a feeling that's almost indescribable. But I know it's name. It's name is Joy. And I'm so happy it's back.

Although the sniffles and bugs have gotten us down lately, the warmth of the sun is seeping through today. And for that I'm so very grateful. I will say today, and I will say so many days of my life. God is so good.

Psalm 62:1,2
1 I wait quietly before God,
for my victory comes from him.
2 He alone is my rock and my salvation,
my fortress where I will never be shaken.

Yay! Vacation!!

*Singing*
"Pennsylvania Here we Come! Right back where we started from..."

OK, maybe not quite right, but that's where we're headed, baby!

We love PA in this family -- it's a beautiful state to travel to, and in -- just gorgeous scenery. Beautiful mountains, quaint little towns, fun little places to shop along the way. This will be our 3rd summer to vacation somewhere in Pennsylvania, and it all started because we have friends down in Lancaster in beautiful Amish country, so we started exploring from here to there, and have found some fun places to visit!

This summer we're going with our best friends and their daughter to Hershey Park in Harrisburg and Laura and I just booked the hotel the other night. Our requirements? It has to be C L E A N (as in squeaky), it has to have an in room coffee pot (some places DON'T I was horrified to find out!), and for the kids it has to have a pool. They would spend the whole vacation in the pool if we let them, but I have a hunch that once we take them to Hershey they'll understand just how much fun that will be as well. (Actually we did take JD to Hershey a couple of years ago, but he had neither a friend to ride rides with nor a sibling to hang out with, so this year will be way more fun for him and he can't wait!)

We're also hoping to do some shopping around Amish country (fortunately for us, both B and T, our husbands, like to shop with us! How blessed are we?!), and we'll be able to browse at our leisure! Well, we'll be able to do that only if the kiddos allow us to do that at our leisure -- we'll have to make some ice cream deals I'm sure!

Booking the hotel makes it seem much closer. I'm looking forward to the summer! Just 2 short months to go till our fun vacation!

To my husband..

Grow old along with me -- the best is yet to be
When our time has come -- we will be as one

God bless our love -- God bless our love

Grow old along with me -- two branches of one tree
Face the setting sun -- when the day is done

God bless our love -- God bless our love

Spending our lives together -- man and wife together
World without end -- world without end

Grow old along with me -- whatever fate decrees
We will see it through -- for our love is true

God bless our love -- God bless our love

God bless our love -- God bless our love

"Grow Old Along With Me" ~ Mary Chapin Carpenter

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~


Yesterday was our 11 year wedding anniversary -- 11 years! This was the song we danced to for our first song as husband and wife. Still -- everytime I hear this song, I still get goosebumps listening to the words, even though the meanings have changed a bit -- For instance, "Face the setting sun, when the day is done".. that is starting to have a different meaning.. Back then, it was all about our wedding day. Everything was all about The Big Day. Now 11 years and 2 kids later -- we're strong as a unit, and know that The Day meant a lot, but not nearly as much as the day to day of a marriage to your best friend -- a unit, a lifetime of little moments mean.

B, you are my best friend, my confidante, my rock, my soulmate, my problem-solver (you can't help that part, you're a man! ha!), my strength when I am weak, the best daddy for my babies, my partner, my love. I love you more today then ever. Here's to 50 plus more! Happy Anniversary, Sweetheart! xoxoxoox

A Mother's Day Giveaway!

http://www.5minutesformom.com/1477/mothers-day-giveaway/

Click over and add a comment to be entered in a fun giveaway! I did it -- who knows, maybe one of us will win something cool!! :) Good luck to us all!