A day in the life...

made me smile...

2011-07-25T11:48:00.003-06:00

Just a quick quote - so i don't forget.

"I'm so lucky to have good parents like you guys!" Kailtyn

Age: 6

7/24/2011

I wanted to write this down, so I have something to look back on in 10 years when she may not feel the same! ;-)

The guitar

2010-09-27T15:22:00.005-06:00

Our dear sweet friends decided it would be a GREAT idea to give (not loan, or borrow) GIVE Kaitlyn a guitar. Their so carefully thought out reason was because she would need it for her Halloween costume. Here is an excerpt from our conversation:
Me "Oh, this is cute, I'm going to hide it from Kaitlyn until Halloween."
Monique "too late, Zoe gave it to her last night, she just forgot it here."
Me "Oh, well, we'll be really careful with it, thank you! ....... Gave? You mean, lent, right?"
Monique (BIG SMILE) "NO! We have TWO, K.K (that's what she calls her.... ) can HAVE this one! (BIGGER SMILE)."
Me "ya! (sarcastic smile!)
LOL - I really wasn't looking forward to the twanging, but I have to say she cracks me up with that guitar almost everyday.

This is a "song" she made up. This isn't the best one, but its the only one she's let me record.

Mike even decided to get in on the guitar action. He secretly wants to be a country song writer! :-) I was trying to record him, but was only able to get the tail end of the song! It was pretty funny. His "country" songs are my favorite!

I hope that she continues to love music, but more importantly not be afraid of it. I feel music in my bones - it speaks to my soul. Without music I would be lost. But - I was always too afraid to sing in public or take the mic. It's something I still regret, and something I'm still terrified of! She reminds me so much of myself, I hope to teach her to be confident in her abilities - which is something I have always lacked.

Fall Family Social

2010-09-27T14:58:00.007-06:00

We decided to check out the fall family social - again. We went last year, and I was hoping that this year, there might be some new fun things, but as it turns out - NOPE. Just the same as last year, but Kaitlyn had a great time, so I guess that's all that matters! We scurried through the activities and headed home for some homemade green chili (my bestest batch ever!) Our friends Monique and Brian joined us, and the night ended great!

The bumpy shot - almost perfect.

He is enjoying himself SOOO much.

Mike had an ESPECIALLY good time! :-) He LIVES for this stuff!

Isn't my home beautiful?

A pledgable E-Jance.

2010-08-16T17:09:00.006-06:00

Kaitlyn was VERY excited to share with me a few things she learned at school today.

"a pledgable E jance to the anited state of AMERICA! I respect my school with care and the others." I just thought it was too cute not to share!

She also learned this song, which I am certain to use in the near future!

I am so happy that she is learning so much! hahahaha!

Thank GOD for family!

2010-08-16T16:40:00.005-06:00

We got our central air put in three years ago. Every summer (including the first year) our ceiling has bulged in our bathroom (unit is located upstairs above the bathroom). We have had to poke holes in the ceiling to let the water drain. I'm sure you can imagine me during the last 3 years. Every time I went to the bathroom I would look up at the ceiling in disgust! Here is a re-cap of just one conversation about the last 3 years.

Me: Do you know our ceiling has a huge bulging bubble in it?

Mike: huh?! really? I'll have to poke a hole.

Me: Sigh. You do realize it isn't NORMAL for a/c to leak and ruin our ceiling. Right?

Mike: I think its just too humid outside.

Me: You're kidding - right?

Mike: About what?

About two weeks ago - I went to use the bathroom - sat down, looked up in my usual disgust and near fell off the toilet as the bulge was about a foot deep and more than a foot wide. Insert conversation from above, only LOUDER. (This pic was taken after said "holes" were poked and the water drained for about a week.) Finally we (he)cut out the ceiling to find the root of the problem. My brother in law Robert, came over - last minute to help us out. Let me just say that I am SO grateful for him! He always drops whatever he is doing to help us. He has given up countless weekends to fix something for us and he never asks for anything in return. He says dinner is payment enough, and I'm happy to oblige but it doesn't seem near enough! Thanks Robert!

Robert took the unit apart (which is sealed to keep air pressure in, or something like that) and finds the manual. THE MANUAL!!!! Are you feeling me people? The installers SEALED the manual inside the unit and it was blocking the air flow - so the condenser wasn't burning off the condensation. I was really angry at first at the incompetency of the installers, but more grateful that taking OUT the manual seems to have fixed the problem. Now - we just have to schedule a few more dinners to fix the ceiling! I think I'll fix chicken... it's Robert's favorite! ;-)

Kindergarten Hug

2010-08-09T17:04:00.005-06:00

Today was Kaitlyn's first day of Kindergarten. And, as the title suggests I needed a hug. My baby girl is growing up so fast! It seems like I blink and another year goes by. I can't stop crying, and I have to do it all over again tomorrow!

We got up this morning and she asked "Mom is it time for school yet?", nope not yet I say.

Then we eat breakfast, "is it time now?" Nope - not yet - but you can get dressed if you want! That was very cool for her - she's been waiting to get dressed for Kindergarten for a week now! Her outfit has been picked out for weeks! Time for lunch - but shes too excited to eat and only eats part of her watermelon, some gold fish crackers and only 3 bites of PBJ (which is unheard of!) "NOW is it time for school Mom?" No, not yet, but you can wash your hands and face and brush your teeth. FINALLY - it's time to go.

We get to the school and she was a little nervous I could tell. She was looking for someone she knew, but NONE of the kids from pre-school are in her class. I tell her that's okay, because she's going to make some new friends. That seemed to comfort her. The teachers arrive and start forming a line. She tells me she loves me at least a dozen times, (nervousness building) and they start walking in. She waves and walks away like she's done it hundreds of times!

Now - my tears are no longer welled up in my eyes but pouring down my cheeks. I think I'm the only Mom who cried - of course I didn't look around to check anyone else out. I blinked and it was time to pick her up. She was SO happy and excited to tell me everything, but mostly she "forgot". LOL She forgot her friends names, she forgot the teacher aid's name, and she forgot what she learned. She did remember the story "the kissing hand". Mrs. Birch sent home a few things for us parents - and of course I started crying all over again.

"It's my first day of school and "the kissing hand" is what we read. It's about a raccoon who did just as his parent said. Like the raccoon's first day at school I was scared and a little shy. But because of what you said I was brave and I got by. All through the year I'll make more things for you. So as I learn and as I grow you can see how much I love you, too!" The story came with a pair of hands that Kaitlyn traced and cut out all by her self.

So - I get a tissue and wipe my eyes. And continue to the 2nd page. "The fist day. I gave you a little wink and smile as you entered my room today. For I know hard it is to leave and know your child must stay. you've been with her for five years now and have been a loving guide, but now, alas, the time has come to leave her at my side. Just know that as you drive away and tears down your cheeks may flow I'll love her as I would my own and help her learn and grow. So please put your mind at ease and cry those tears no more for I will love her and taker her in when you leave her at my door."

Yep - got another tissue. Now I'm really crying all over again!

Okay - so I've had enough crying for one day, HOPEFULLY! :-)

Im sure this "letting go" thing will start getting easier; but for today - for right now, it's the hardest thing I've ever done.

Where have I been?

2010-08-08T13:53:00.030-06:00

I can't believe it's been 7 months since I last logged in. That is unacceptable! So much has gone on, so many changes and memories! I'm not sure how I can catch you all up, but I'm going to try to recap the last 7 months. Here goes!
January -

We welcomed in the new year with family and friends. Monique and Brian stopped by to liven things up a bit!
February - Akasha started doing a little baby sitting for us! Wahoo! :-) She taught Kaitlyn a few dance moves! hahaha

My cousin Christopher was accepted at the Sheridan Police department! I was delighted that he would ask me to watch the pinning ceremony. (I think that's what its called! - sheesh, he's the first Police Officer in our family... gimme a break). I can't get over how proud of him I am! He really worked hard, devoted all of his time and stuck to it. I admire his perseverance.

February ended with the passing of a very special person in my life. My Uncle Dean Larson was a kind, strong man. I adored him. He was so funny and sweet. I have many memories of him, he loved playing card games, loved the outdoors and loved to go fishing. We recently got together and spread his ashes in a river he loved to fish in. It was a moment that I was overcome with emotion. My Uncle Walt honored him, and I was really touched by that. I am really going to miss him, and I look forward to seeing him again!

March -

We love watching American Idol. I'm pretty sure that Kaitlyn will be on that show (or something like that) one day. I captured her "performing" in our kitchen while we watched the show. She would often sneak off during the show and we could hear her singing and talking, but every time I got close, she would notice me and stop. You'll have to turn up the sound, because I was leaning over the fish tank and its loud.

A few of my favorite quotes from this video are:

"yeesssssssssssssss - aaaaaaaah!" followed by the Rock star ending.

"You sang the right words, you were thinking in your head that you were a rock star"

"I think you're really good, you're going to be ready for St. Patrick's Day!" YESSSSAH!
One more from the same night. I'm so bummed because I missed her saying " YO YO YO DAWG... " hahaha.'

This one is hilarious for a few reasons:

hannah on, hannah on, hannah on TANNA! YESSSSSAH! " That's what she calls Hannah Montana. Hannah Ontanna.
The several rock star endings.
Air guitar.
You have the show DOOOOOOOOOWWWWWWWWN AHHHH!"

We got in on some spring sledding action too - It was a fabulous day for sledding, the sun was so hot - that the nearly two feet of snow we got all melted by the end of the day! Alex, Austin and Richie came and enjoyed the fun too!

The sunshine didn't last - We got another foot of snow three days later! Guinness loves the snow!

April -

Easter! Kaitlyn had a blast! She was SO cute! She dressed up in the dress that Aunt Patty bought her and delighted in finding all the eggs! Too many pics to post, but here are a few of my favorites.

She a kite for Easter - and this kite flying experience went MUCH better than the first! ;-) I actually thing EVERYONE enjoyed it!

Kaitlyn LOVES to get in to my clothes and shoes and play dress up. She really thought she looked elegant. I can remember getting in to my Mamo and Granny's clothes and shoes and playing. I try to capture the moment without getting mad that she was going through my things again! I just adore her...

May -

Kaitlyn is ending her preschool career. She takes a class field trip to the Littleton Museum. It was pretty cute seeing her interact with her friends. She is getting SO big and SO smart. In fact, while I'm typing this she is reciting numbers in Spanish from one to ten!

Kaitlyn's last day of pre-school was in May. She was really happy because that meant she was getting to go to Kindergarten. She was really mad the next day when she woke up and it wasn't "kindergarten day". I think she felt slighted. hahaha. After she figured out she couldn't go RIGHT to kindergarten she asked if she could go back to pre-school while she waited. :-)

Mike and I celebrated our 6 year anniversary on the 3oth. Six years of bliss! hahaha

We had a few friends over to help us celebrate! It was a great day!

June -

My angel baby turned 5! FIVE years old. I can hardly believe I have a 5 year old. It seems like only yesterday she was this fragile little being that I was afraid to move - cause I thought I might hurt her. Now I'm just scared Ill screw her up in some un-fixable, life ruining way. I'm sure every Mom feels like this sometimes. She is so smart, funny and cute - I like to think I'm doing an okay job. ;-)

See the slide show on the right for all the pics from her birthday!

I drove to New Mexico for the first time in June. I really enjoyed it. What a beautiful State. The weird thing is that I had a dream a while back that I moved there. I could see me living there. Sante Fe was pretty and had some yummy food! :-) On my way through Sante Fe, I stopped in Las Vegas (cause I thought that it was funny) and happened to turn down a random street - and look what I found

What are the chances? Someone was definitely guiding me there - I had no reason to turn there!

I would definitely like to go back and spend a few days exploring Sante Fe. I only got to look around there for a few hours. Its worth the drive just for the fish taco's! :-)

Camel Rock - Took this just for Mike. He like to give pics of camels to his friend Rayme. lol.

Very pretty scenery!

Drove home in to a rainbow!

There were also some pretty spectacular sunsets in June - well not just in June, but I happened to capture a few that took my breath away! I took this shot from my patio. I love Colorado.

July -

We finally got to go camping for the first time this summer. We went to Jefferson lake and it was so peaceful and serene. I don't think I will ever go camping again on a weekend. It was MUCH more enjoyable during the week. It did rain everyday - but there is such a canopy of tree's that we didn't really get bothered by it.

I think Ive posted enough pictures for one blog. But i have this enjoyable video of Kaitlyn asking about the "bambooboo trees".

We were driving in the mountains and she looked up to the Aspen trees on the hillside and said "Momma, are those bambooboo's?" I made her repeat it several times just to hear her say it again and again! "No baby those are aspen trees, but you can call them bambooboo's if you want to".

Well, I think that brings me to August! Kaitlyn's first day of Kindergarten is tomorrow!

I can't even begin to write about that now!

Until Then,

Christy

Christmas fun and stuff

2010-01-03T12:36:00.016-07:00

Christmas was very nice! We were behind in our gifts this year (hmmm wonder why? Nothing really happened this year - yea right!). But we were able to get them all done before the end of the year. I think they turned out beautifully and we were really proud!

This was just a few of the bottles we made this year. I personally consumed each wine or cider and will be checking myself in to AA promptly. (Kidding - the bottles were ones I have saved over the last 6 years!)

Mom brought some very special gifts. There was something for each of us, that her and Jennifer had been collecting or saving or making for us. Some were very personal (and emotional) like the afghan that she crochet for Akasha. It was the last thing she ever made. Some were totally surprising, like the cars she had been saving for Jarod. Some were just totally cool - like the coin collection her and Mom and been saving for Jamie and myself for 10 years! There were special gifts for each of us. It was a very emotional, but a good end to the year. We did miss her laughter, but I know she was with us, beaming from ear to ear! (You betcha!)

Christmas gets better each year with Kaitlyn, she cracks me up everyday. When she was passing out presents (most were for her) she said "WOW! I love presents that start with "K!" We couldn't stop laughing at that! She was so excited and surprised - but I think she liked giving gifts the best. She was so proud of the gifts she picked out for me.

For my birthday, I got Band Hero! We had a blast rocking it out with everyone! Here are some video's that will surely make you laugh!

This is Guinness enjoying his Christmas gift.

The fam jammin! Kaitlyn pulls out one of her personalities for Band Hero!

Here are Jeff and Chris gettin' down! Amanda was "slappin da' bass mon!" LOL.

Here is Kaitlyn singing "Big black "hawk" and the cherry tree" Check out my husband! He swore he wouldn't like this game - Looks like he's enjoying himself, what do you think? LOL

Last one! Here is everyone singing Kung Foo Fighting. Check out Mike B, he had no idea I captured him getting down!

There were a few other video's but I think I posted enough! We had a great time!

2009 was full of laughter, tears, ups and downs. There some incredible moments, that took my breath away and some that made it hard to breathe! I am happy to move on to 2010 and to another amazing year!

Love,

Christy

Reflecting

2010-01-02T15:23:00.018-07:00

It's January 2nd, 2010. Where did 2009 go? It seems like it vanished in a blink of an eye, which got me thinking. What got me to this point in my life. What shaped me in to the person I am today? So many people have left impressions on me, changing me and shaping me in ways that I never knew important at the time. I thought I would reflect on these people.

Bev

Bev laid the foundations of who I am today. She gave me all of the necessary "tools" any mother gives to a child. I learned how to take care of myself as an adult because of the lessons she taught me. I also got my love of music from her. Music always graced my house - and Bev's voice was something magical for me. The power behind it. It was captivating. I wanted to sing just like her ... She not only helped raise me, but she loved me and taught me valuable lessons that I am passing on to my daughter. Thank you and I miss you so much.

Patty

I'm not quite sure where to start - Patty taught me what it meant to be a woman. To be pretty, to smell nice, to look nice. To value nice things. I used to watch her get ready, for work or to go out. I loved watching her. She was graceful and confident. She was everything I hoped to be when I grew out of my gangling awkward pre-teens. My love of perfume comes from her. She used to wear Night Odyssey - and I loved it. She gave me a bottle of it once and I cherished it for ever and tho it's really hard to find, sometimes I come across it and it brings me back to that time, sitting in the bathroom, watching her put on make-up. She continues to be a person I look up to, and I can't imagine my life without her. She is much more than an Aunt to me, she is a friend. Thank you.

Jeffrey and Christopher (Jeffy and Crit-o-fur affectionately)

They are the brothers I always wanted; even if I didn't know it when we were kids. They would get in to my things, and squirt me with squirt guns. They would plan "missions" to annoy me. But I loved it. Even if I yelled and screamed it. I miss it. I am so proud of the men they have become. They are honorable, intelligent, funny and handsome! I thank them for the gift of being my little "brother's"

Sherry and Dean

Sherry made me aware of religion, what it meant and not to fear it. The lord shines through her and I love that about her. I will admit that growing up I didn't really get it, or understand - I was like "blah blah, religion, blah blah." But I get it now. I thank her for setting the foundation of my spirituality. Dean was my favorite uncle. All the other kids were afraid of him - like he was big and scary (a well crafted act) but not me. I always admired him. He could make me feel better without saying a word and it was that gift that helped me through one of the most tragic events in my life - I will forever be grateful.

Laurie

Laurie taught me about being a kid - laughing, having fun and not being so darned responsible. I was always the responsible one. I was always worried about everything. Very seldom was I careless. You might think I wouldn't appreciate being careless, but I do.... and I think of all the laughs we shared fondly.

Jamie

Jamie taught me how to be a mother. How to love and care for someone unconditionally - which is what I always did for her as a child. I think I am a great mom today because I had good practice with her as a kid. Jamie was a ball of energy and I learned how to forgive, and forget from her. Some one could do her so wrong, but with an apology she would forgive and forget. I love that about her.

Dad

My Dad taught me to love the outdoors, the simple things in life. A bike ride, a walk around a lake or a board game. He was funny and silly and those are things I look for in almost every person I meet. He would do anything to make me laugh. He was soft and caring and would lull me to sleep by rubbing my cheeks. I think of my Dad every time I'm camping or playing monopoly (which he ALWAYS cheated at).

Granny

My granny - my star. She is the kindest most wise person I know. She taught me how to keep some things to my self, a kind of quiet lesson I am still trying to learn. She is generous, kind and brilliant. Everything I aspire to be. Everyone - and I mean everyone should know my Granny. My time spent with her is some of the happiest times of my life. She taught me poker - grin. And I must say - I'm not half bad. I think I get my temper from her too - takes a lot to get me fired up - and once I am, I stay there for a bit. However, a simple kiss, a genuine apology and my flames are doused.

Mamo and Papo

Mamo loved to sing, dance around and "make believe. I loved to pretend with her - and sing. I loved to go through her closet as a kid and put on her shoes. They made me feel pretty -

Papo was the man! I thought he was the biggest, strongest smartest man ever. He could do anything, and fix anything and every man I met (boys really) until about 6 years ago could never measure up. If my husband only knew.... :-)

Mom and Dad Manzanares

Taught me to give. Give without expectations. Trust in the Lord. These are things that I always knew how to do, but didn't really see how important they were. They helped me see the importance. I am eternally grateful for that.

Mom

My Mom is the strongest, hardest working, most loyal person I know. She can fix anything, she is funny and sweet. She is super woman. She wasn't the typical "mom". She didn't' dress in a frilly skirt, and pack my lunches. She didn't do my hair and teach me about make-up. She didn't teach me to cook. But for everything she couldn't teach me, she taught me 20 things in return. I think I'm quite crafty because of her. I don't judge a book by it's cover which is a lesson not often taught by parents, and its probably the most important lesson I learned from her. I'm thankful she wasn't a typical mom, because I wouldn't be who I am today if she was.

My husband

He is so proud and strong. Quiet and outspoken at the same time. I love his spirituality. I love his strength. And I love that I feel comfortable and safe with him. Being that I didn't have a male role model growing up, it was really hard for me to trust him, and allow him to take the reins on things. After all, like my Mom taught me, women can do anything a man can do - and in half the time (wink). But I really love that I love him. I love that he loves me.

My Daughter

Has probably changed my life the most. I had no idea how life altering being a Mother was. She made my heart grow two sizes. She is funny and outspoken and brilliant! And I owe all of that to the wonderful people in our lives... past, present and future.

These are just a few of the important people in my life. I am forever grateful for the gifts they have given me -

Love ya!

Christy

Another Song... "boom boom pounds"

2009-12-17T00:02:00.005-07:00

Here is another one of Kaitlyn singing.

Now - wait for it! Wait for "people in the place..." It's worth it. I really admire my ability to keep a straight face and not laugh hysterically when she does stuff like this. I think it's quite a gift! I think she is quite a gift!

She keeps me smiling! Hope this makes you smile too!

I'm gonna pound ya!

2009-12-16T23:53:00.002-07:00

So tonight while wrestling with Daddy this is what I heard.

Kaitlyn: Ouch Ouch Ouch
Daddy: What's wrong?
Kaitlyn: YOU HURTED MY ARM!
Daddy: Is it OK?
Kaitlyn: NO YOU DID IT - AND YOU BETTER STOP OR I'M GONNA POUND YA!

Mike immediately started laughing harder than I've heard him laugh in a long time, which ticked her off even more. She yells "STOP LAUGHING"! It wasn't funny AT ALL to her, and she had quite the furrowed brow. It took a good 10 minutes for Mike to stop laughing.

I'm laughing so hard in the kitchen that I almost (almost) peed!
We have no idea where she got that, but it cracked us up and I didn't want to forget it!

"Can't you see- hee- hee"

2009-12-04T18:50:00.003-07:00

Kaitlyn's newest "fravrite" song.

I just love her. I am SO thankful that she loves music! :-)

Kaitlyn's first "real" haircut!

2009-12-04T18:07:00.009-07:00

A few days ago I took Kaitlyn to my friend Amy, at Aloha Salon in Castle Rock ,

for her first real hair cut.

She was SO excited!

She kept saying "It's not going to hurt, RIGHT?"

She was very concerned that she was going to cut all of her hair off. Amy reassured her and all was well! She sat so very still and was so serious. When Amy finished, she asked Kaitlyn what she thought "Kaitlyn said... Ummm, I think you could take a little more off!" What a little diva! The best part for her was the candy cane at the end!

Here are a few pics!

Getting set up. She really liked the penguins!

She was so proud - she really felt like a "big girl"!

Picking hair ties for the COOL BRAIDS!

There was a little more, but I didn't get to it before some got swept up... dang it! :-)

Thanks Amy for making this a really great experience for us! You're the best! ;-)

Another snowy Halloween

2009-10-29T09:36:00.012-06:00

With the storm dropping a ton of snow on us (and still snowing) I am reminded of all the snowy Halloween's as a kid. I remember being SO upset about not being able to go trick or treating because the weather was just too bad. One Halloween in particular I remember Bev was even disappointed. She stopped at the store and got us a bunch of scary movies, we got to eat cream of wheat for dinner (which was a treat and one of our favorites) and eat all the candy that we had to give the trick-or-treaters. I think we ended up having a few die hard kids that year (clearly their parents didn't win the battle). It ended up being one of the best Halloweens! I can still picture Jamie and I on our tummy's in the living room (on Baltic St) watching the creep show - and laughing at Mom who thought it was the scariest, most disgusting movie ever! HA! That still cracks me up. I also remember the time I got my tonsils out 8 days before Halloween and was DETERMINED to be well. I was a zombie punk rocker. The zombie part was unintentional. Snowy Halloween Lights

Good Times! I remember all the fights with Mom and Bev about having to wear my jacket over my costume (or winter boots for crying out loud!) Me, "But if I wear my jacket no one will see my costume" Bev, "well if you don't wear your jacket, no one will see you - period". I wore the jacket, begrudgingly. I remember dressing up for school (that was the best) and getting to do the costume parade!

Kim and I as Gypsy's in Grade School at one of the costume parades. I hated this costume at first because it was "home made" and not store bought (like all the other kids). But when I got to school and parents and teachers thought my ear rings were the best ever - well... it quickly turned in to one of my most favorite costumes ever! :-)

The view from my front porch this morning.

I find myself thinking about this as my little girl gears up for her first snowy Halloween. Last year was a fluke - it is NEVER nice enough here to trick or treat on Halloween - with only a light jacket. She is so excited and I am hoping she will get to go to a few houses - or I will find myself in the same predicament as Mom and Bev... "what to do with a ticked off trick-or-treater!"

I will add that Mike couldn't be MORE happy with the weather. For one, he loves the cold - but more importantly, he gets to use the snow blower! Kaitlyn loves it because she gets to use her bucket and fill it with snow - to make stuff! Guinness loves to tunnel through it - I am the odd one out. I am making it through this mess by imagining myself on a beach, with a fruity cocktail of some kind - smelling coconut suntan lotion....aaaahhhh.

Yesterday afternoon. You can't see the grin because he took off so fast!

Kaitlyn was super excited yesterday to go dig! Boy - wonder what she is going to think of today's accumulation!

Guinness in his tunnel path this morning.

Tea Anyone?

2009-10-29T08:51:00.003-06:00

Last night as Mike was on the phone and I (undoubtedly) was playing around on FB, I heard Kaitlyn downstairs talking to someone. "What's that honey? WHAT?! No - Stop it, I can't understand you honey, What? OH, OK!"

Intrigued, I came down to see what she was doing.

This is what I saw.

Every place neatly set on a blanket table cloth, complete with a coaster (plate), a crayon(spoon or fork) a tissue (napkin) and some of her bears patiently waiting to be served a gourmet meal. She even had a centerpiece!

The bears were dressed in their Wednesday night best (her old nightgowns that she refuses to get rid of even though they fit her like a t-shirt)! Apparently the bears were a bit upset that there was no "real" food.

I came down just in time to see her heading for the pantry - where I will point out Mike was sitting next to and had no idea the mess she was about to make. LOL.

I just love watching her play and use her imagination.

Lil' Munchkins party

2009-10-24T16:58:00.006-06:00

Kaitlyn was well enough to go back to school last Thursday, just in time for her first Halloween party. Mrs. Holly allowed me to sit in and help out - so I snapped a few photos. It was so sweet to see all the kids interacting and learning. They made treat bags, had story time, they danced and sang and searched for Halloween eggs filled with treats - the makings of a fine party I must say!
I really enjoyed being able to be a part of their day - and the popcorn balls were to die for! Seriously - best I've ever had!!

Here are a few of my favorite shots - see the slide show on the side for the rest.

She is super excited about trick-or-treating this year - and even more SO to be Wonder Woman! Man, to be a kid again!

Lions and tigers and Swine flu - Oh MY!

2009-10-24T16:48:00.003-06:00

No lions or tigers, although I'm sure I growled just as much as one. Kaitlyn came down with the swine flu and narrowly escaped hospitalization. My poor little angel had a fever of 103 (with Motrin) for 4 days. I was able to get the presciption for tamiflu, although her Doctor said it wouldn't be available much longer. She is mostly better now, no fever, but still doing breathing treatments (we are down to two a day). During this time Mike was also sick.
It is so hard and scary to see a little one so sick. I am so thankful she is on the road to recovery!
Now - after taking care of Mike and Kaitlyn, I am starting to come down with something.
Where is my tea? My tissues? My soup? My vicks rub down?
I got nadda.
Sigh - such is life. The life of a Mom.

Jennifer Louise Robeck

2009-09-23T21:02:00.005-06:00

Jennifer Louise Robeck, of Cotopaxi Colorado, Born May 23, 1955 lost her battle with cancer on September 12, 2009. Known as the “burrito lady” to many, Jennifer loved to cook and lived life to the fullest. She and Carol, her partner for 18 years loved to fish, camp, hunt, sing and dance. Jennifer was a proud Coloradoan who loved her mountains, the Bronco’s and the Rockies! She loved to play games and would grace us with her legendary whistle upon winning! Jennifer is survived by her brother Chris Robeck and Uncle Harvey Robeck and many dear family and friends. We would like to invite all her knew and loved her to a celebration of her life on October, 10 2009 at the Cody Park Church in Cotopaxi at 1:00 p.m.

These are just words. Words that will be printed in the paper. She was so much more than words, and I'm having a really hard time summing up her life with words - summing up my relationship with her in words.

It was no secret that Jennifer and I didn't always see eye to eye. In fact she down right pissed me off at times. But, she never treated me any differently because of it - nor I her. I think she was one of the few that I just "accepted" as they were. No more - no less and she accepted me. We had a few rough patches here and there, but I really don't remember them as much as I remember her smile and laugh.

She had an infectious laugh - it would start off as a small chuckle then build to something that, even if you had no idea why she was laughing, you would join in!

We played a lot of games; poker, dice, card games, board games, horseshoes, darts - you name it and she was in! And you could count on that whistle when she won! For those of you who have never heard it I compare it to the whistle in the Rawhide theme song...She also loved to ski. She took me skiing for my very first time - and man! That was a great day! Definitely one of my favorite days! I don't ski often, or very good - but what I can do is because of her... and I'm grateful for that experience.

Our "thing" was food. We loved to cook, and we cooked really well together and I think that is where we bonded. We really liked bouncing idea's and recipes off each other (I did more bouncing than she). It was a special treat when we got together for a meal because you could believe it would have every course imaginable! :-) She loved her "snackies" and sample time at the grocery stores was a highlite of the day! I often used her to test foods for me, to see if they were too spicy. If something was spicy her cheeks would sweat. No joke - little beads of sweat would form on her cheeks right above her cheekbones...and she would look at me and say "Don't eat it!"

She was very generous, if she had it and you needed it, it was yours! Of course, she did have 5 of whatever it was!!! She was a big bargain shopper! Her and I would just get so tickled if we got a great deal on something! It didn't matter if she didn't really need it - what could she get it for?! She wasn't cheap either. The first gift she ever bought me was a pair of pearl and diamond earings from the Shane Company. I was speachless... I didn't know if I was more excited about the earings or the fact that she got them from a company who's commerical I had memorized as a kid! (Go ahead say it with me... The Shane company just off Arapahoe Road and Emporia street one half mile east of I-25....) I still love those earings and I will forever cherish them.

She loved to crochet, and I'm really bummed now that I didn't have the patience to learn. She tried to teach me and I'm telling you - that's hard! She loved quilting and wood working - I have been on the receiving end of each of these talents and I am grateful.

I am grateful that she was a part of my life, and I'm going to miss her.

Working Out!

2009-08-26T14:17:00.005-06:00

Nothing much to say about this - it's just cute!
Here are Kaitlyn and her Daddy working out! Pardon the mess in the Garage...

Camping - August 09

2009-08-26T13:59:00.003-06:00

We got to go camping again at Elevenmile (we really liked it last time). We got up there Friday afternoon and enjoyed a nice night all by ourselves. It was the first time we were camping and it was just us! It was a beautiful night, couldn't ask for anything better - well maybe for my air mattress to not have a hole, but other than that it was great!!
Saturday we were joined by Gabe and our neighbors Monique, Brian, Riley and Zoe. We had a great time - the weather turned a bit crazy Saturday night tho!

Check out the link below to see all the pics!

http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=5435&id=100000095584659&l=a03bb7a885

First day of school

2009-08-13T12:04:00.006-06:00

Okay - so today is actually her second day of Pre-school. I am sitting here drinking my coffee, in complete silence because Mike is driving today. I'm thinking to myself "what should I do now?" Seriously - What should I do now? I know it's only two hours but I found myself with this nervous energy. So - I decided to bake some bread (in the bread maker of course) and get going on laundry - Only after I sat for 20 minutes and just did nothing. I didn't talk to anyone. I didn't watch t.v. I just sat. It was kind of nice! Now, to tackle that darned pantry. Uggh.
Tuesday was her first day - and NO, I didn't cry. Almost - but the tear didn't come out. She marched right up to the door, kicked off her shoes and asked where to put her book bag! She didn't even say goodbye! (That's the part where I almost cried.) She learned about the letter "A".
Kaitlyn is beside herself excited for school and "Mrs. Holly's class" and all her new "friends". Wednesday was excruciating for her. She must have asked 20 times "when do i get to go to Mrs. Holly's house?" She sang a song for me today "adios, adios - see you on Tuesday! See you on Tuesday." I think she is really going to do well!

Here are some pics from the open house and from her first day.

All set to start learning!

Daddy explaining that we have to wait until Mrs. Holly opens the door.

My little angel!

All sass, but still so cute!

Brushing her teeth all by herself, after all she's a big girl now!

Her folder! I know I'm a dork - I thought this was exciting!

Some of the classroom

Mommy and Kaitlyn decorating her book bag.

Mrs. Holly and Kaitlyn.

can we go in yet??!

Sorry for the backward order - I'm having a hard time organizing pics on here lately. Anyone else having this problem?

one more super cute pic!

2009-07-29T20:05:00.003-06:00

Kaitlyn's friend Zoe had a spa day for her birthday - and Kaitlyn got her toes painted and this...

SO SO CUTE! What have we set ourselves up for?!

my first salad from my garden!

2009-07-29T19:48:00.004-06:00

On the 4th I got to eat a whole salad entirely from my garden! It was SO delicious! Fresh lettuce, radish, spinach, tomatoes, basil, parsley and cilantro!

My Garden is growing fantastically!

Day at Chatfield Res

2009-07-29T19:32:00.004-06:00

Last weekend, we went to water world and had a GREAT TIME! I hadn't been there since High School. It was so fun we all had a great time and I can't wait to go back!

The next day we went to Chatfield with my brother-in-law's family and our neighbors. We had a great time! It was nice to do something different - the kids enjoyed hanging out in the water and the big kids played badminton! Thanks to Aunt Patty, we had TONS of food and nothing went to waste! Check out my dirty face girls! LOL That's when you know you're having a good time!

Above are Jan, Mike, Richard, Mike, Jarod and Dee in a battle to the finish! :-) We had a lot of fun - laid back fun day!

XBox360!

2009-07-29T19:09:00.005-06:00

My cousin Chris generously gave us an Xbox360!!! How lucky are we?! By we, I mean Mike because all the games are his, he got a remote for it (which is his) and he got me one game (Sonic) but won't show me how to set up a profile so I don't have to start over each time.

I'm going to have Jarod show me how ... and then.... watch out! That baby will be ALL MINE! LOL

Even Kaitlyn is getting in on the action! She loves mortal combat. So - is that a bad thing??

Thank you Chris for you generosity! We greatly appreciate it and are thoroughly enjoying it!

Where has the time gone?

2009-07-29T18:48:00.004-06:00

Wow - I can't believe it's been 3 weeks since my last post! To start, I am totally addicted to Facebook. It has occupied all my free time lately and yes, I am ashamed! (Not really)

So - aside from facebook, what have I been doing? Enjoying the summer, enjoying the rain, loving my garden and hanging out with my family! Here are some pics of us enjoying the sunshine!

Kaitlyn gettin' jiggy wit' it!

Taking a sip out of her birthday pool!

The kids dancing - so cute! Check Jarod's moves out!
Below are Zoe, Kaitlyn and Bean showboating in the front yard!

Garden Update

2009-07-02T10:07:00.006-06:00

Have I mentioned how utterly proud I am of my garden? Well - I am! I am SO stinking proud! Food is growing, ACTUALLY growing! And pretty darned good I might add! :-)

It hasn't been without it's problems tho - the wind knocked over my tomato planter and all the tomatoes on the bottom got broken. The hail killed several things... actually I killed more than the hail did trying to protect it from the hail. Sigh. But, overall things are growing and I can eat them ... AND I have been doing it totally organic! No harmful pesticides or growth enhancers! I got this great book from the library that I may not give back (just joking Chris....) and it has tons of organic tonics that help your garden, yard and flowers! I recently treated my garden to a pest pulverizing salsa - to get rid of harmful bugs! It smelled so good I wanted to eat it - except that it had 6 jalapenos in it and it would have been way too hot! But, it worked! I have made a friend with a crab spider. Yes, I said it - a spider. Don't get me wrong, we're not hanging out having iced tea or anything but we are "co-existing". He lives on my tomato plant, and eats all the bugs and promises not to sneak up on me. In turn, I let him live. Symbiotic relationships are so nice!

My yummy spinach

Here are a few pics! Today I think I might make a salad with my lettuce, spinach, cilantro and radish! ;-)

Above - Some of my lettuce, and one of my radishes! YUM!

My bell peppers are just starting to grow, and an overall view of the upside down planters.

Here are my cherry tomatoes - you can see one is almost ripe! Ya! The one looked like it had a seed growing on the outside, so i picked it off, and it left a scar. Ooops. This is where the spider lives, he was camera shy today. The second pic is a close up of one of the bell peppers.

basilSome lemon boy tomatoes

Well, that's all for now, have a great day!

On a sad note - I came home from work to this.... apparently (or we're guessing) that the wind broke my tree. :-( Anybody know of a great deal on tree's????

Some more mom nuggets...

2009-06-26T14:16:00.006-06:00

Here are a few more things I never thought I would say, let alone hear! Enjoy!

"Kaitlyn, why are you licking your arms?!" "Well, I didn't wash very good."

"KAITLYN! SHOES WITH DOG POOP DO NOT GO ON THE TABLE!" "Did you even wash your hands after you touched the poopy shoes?" She sniffs her hands, and says "they don't smell like poop!"

My First Garden Food!

2009-06-23T17:10:00.003-06:00

So - yesterday I got to eat my first, grown from seed, garden food!!! I pulled two radishes and made a delicious salad (with store bought salad stuff (for now!))! I have to say how incredibly proud of myself I am! I have several more that are ready but I didn't want to be greedy on my first harvest!

He He He!

Look what I grew! All by myself!

My baby is 4!

2009-06-23T11:05:00.013-06:00

This day was sad and happy all in one! I took some time in the morning before everyone was awake to reflect on the past four years. Man - time really does fly. When you are a kid it seems like the days last forever, but as an adult there is never enough time in the day, and before you know it - four years has gone by. sigh.
Anyway - we decided to have two parties, one for the "princesses" and one for the family. Kaitlyn had been asking for a "Cinderella" party since last October. She was ecstatic! She looked SO adorable! All the girls had a great time and I have officially become two of the girls party planners. ha ha ha! That made me feel good! Thanks to all our friends and family for making her special day "special"

Here are some of my favorite pics and video's of the day! Check out the slide show on the right for all the pics. (you can click on it to see the full size version)

Here she is on her new bike!

All the cuties!

YES! I WON! Breanna was SO excited!

A cute video of the girls rocking out! This cracked me up! My girl is so cute! ;-)

Here she is, acting all grown up!

Speaking of cute, here are a few pics of the cake and cupcakes that I made. I am so proud of those butterflies! They were devils food cupcakes with homemade peanut-butter butter cream icing! TO DIE FOR! The cake was something I dreamed up - and I think it turned out pretty darn cute! I know Kaitlyn loved it! Which - in my book is all that matters! How did I do Sarah?

"That was a cheap shot"

2009-06-10T13:48:00.003-06:00

Awhile back I wrote about some of Kaitlyn's new words. "Peecheought". We have been asking for a while now what exactly is a peecheought. I would give her a cookie and say "Is this a peecheought?" She would laugh and say No. "I would watch a show with her and something funny would come on - and I would say "man that was a peecheought" and she would look at me like I was from another planet and say "No it isn't."

A few weeks ago we figured out that "peecheought" was from the Garfield movie. So we watched it over and over, but Kaitlyn would either fall asleep before the part, or lose interest. We figured out that it was probably something that hurt, and was probably funny.

I gave up learning what peecheought meant. UNTIL...

Jamie and Akasha were really brainstorming and figured out what it meant!!!!

Odie throws a pillow at Garfield and Garfield says "that was a cheap shot!". That was a peecheought."

Mystery solved. Thanks detectives Busch and Scarrow.

another thing I never thought I would say.

2009-06-10T13:42:00.003-06:00

So - I have always wanted to write a book about all the things I say on a daily basis that I never thought I would say. They are my little mom nuggets of wisdom.

Here is today's nugget:

"Kaitlyn, you DO NOT rub watermelon on your forehead!!! Watermelons are not for FOREHEADS!".

Here are a few other memorable nuggets:
"Kaitlyn, my boobs are not for honking."

"Daddy's underwear are NOT, I repeat NOT a hat."

Hope you enjoy them as much as me!

Camping - Elevenmile Reservoir

2009-05-26T21:42:00.003-06:00

We decided to try a new campsite out this time - and I couldn't have been more pleased! We went up to Eleven mile Reservoir. If you don't know where that is, it's west of Colorado Springs about an hour or so, past Woodland Park. I can't believe I've lived in Co my whole life and never been there! It didn't take very long to get there, but it seems SO far away. Despite the rain - the TONS AND TONS OF RAIN, we had a great time! The scenery was awesome, the amenities were great and when the sun shined it was a really beautiful place. I'm really glad that our campsite wasn't near the lake though, there was thousands (no exaggeration) of these "mosquito like" bugs (they weren't mosquito's but looked similar). That was really gross, but overall a really fun trip and I can't wait to go back! Kaitlyn had a fabulous time, and was so bummed when we were leaving. She said "I thought we were going to stay forever!" Mike said, "don't you want to go back to your home? Don't you miss it?" She promptly said "No!". He laughed and said, too bad. We went with Jamie, Mike and the kids - all four dogs - and Rayme's family. It seemed like there was something for everyone - and I think we all had a great time! It wasn't a bad start to the camping season!

Take a look at the slide show on the right.

Garden!!

2009-05-26T14:19:00.007-06:00

I have wanted a garden for years, and for Mother's day this year my husband decided to build me a raised garden bed! He and my brother in law Mike, built me this beautiful cedar garden bed and drilled my buckets for upside down planters. I must have been too caught up in the moment because I didn't take a single picture (and that is just NOT like me!).

I decided to do half store bought plants and half seeds. I have to say that I am really proud of myself! I am just going for it! I really have no idea what I am doing but I'm sure I'm going to get something out of it! Here are some picture of our progress!

Here is Jamie helping me plant carrots and Jalapenos!

She is really excited about the garden!

Don't I look so happy!? I found a quote recently "The best place to look for God is in the garden, you can dig for him there".

Here are some pics of my stuff!

Basil!!

Heirloom Tomatoes (green zebra) and some brussel sprouts from my neighbor!

Some Green onions and some red onions, I think there is a cantaloupe in there too - followed by more bell peppers and some giant Marconi peppers.

My upside down tomato planters! I know - they aren't the most attractive, but SO effective! I am so super excited about them! Can you see my babies? One yellow pear tomato and like 3 or 4 cherry tomatoes! My Raspberry bush!

Baby Marconi Peppers

Some Mint

We had a hail storm while we were camping, and I was so worried! But - all in all they didn't fair too bad! I lost one whole stem of flowering tomatoes - hopefully they will still bloom more. My beans came up (pic to the left) and my peas are doing awesome! My jalapenos got a bit beat up but they still bloomed! My carrots are coming up in troves! YUMMY!

Well - that's it for now, I will be updating continuously!

Unforgettables!

2009-05-05T10:44:00.003-06:00

Number 1)

PLUMP:
noun (plural plums)
Definition:

1. dark red fruit: a round or oval smooth-skinned fruit, usually red or purple, containing a flattened pit. 2. A fruit recently discovered by my 3 year old, which is "delicious for her tummy"!

Used in a sentence:
" Mommy, can I have another one of those plumps, they are delicious for my tummy!!!."

Number 2)

Pecheeought. Pronounced PEE-CHEE-AUT.
Noun? Verb? Adverb? Yes? I think.
This definition is a little harder because I'm not sure what it means. I know it has been used in several applications as follows:

A. "I bonked my head and that was a real pecheeought!

B. " Aunt JJ you are such a pecheeought!

C. "Peecheeought, I forgot my brushy!"

D. "Cheyenne is going to eat my plump, that is a pecheeought!"

Easter 2009, this and that

2009-04-15T13:18:00.004-06:00

Well - Easter has come and gone again. Another mound of eggs dyed, and a ton of deviled eggs made in return! We started off our Easter weekend by going to see Mike's dad in a play about the crucifixion of Christ, and the Resurrection. Mike's dad played Jesus and he did a fabulous job! Who knew he was such an actor! We got home and dyed eggs - and except for the two spills and Kaitlyn painting her hands instead of the eggs - it was a great time! Akasha, Jarod and I tye-dyed eggs with food coloring and it was pretty cool!
I got up early the next day and went in to "Betty cracker mode". I baked blueberry orange muffins for everyone, warmed some spice cake with cream cheese, made some fresh carrot/apple juice and Mike cut up some fresh pineapple. And - I baked a pineapple upside down cake all by 10:00! The kids found 70 real eggs and 52 plastic eggs! No one knew what the plastic eggs had in them - they were a special delivery from the gramma bunnies! Kaitlyn was particularly interested in them -over the "big eggs" which was weird (she must have had a sixth sense about it). She got A.D.D. and decided to go through her basket, and popped open one of the plastic eggs and a dollar popped out. Jarod looked over - and started grabbing up as many plastic eggs as he could find! It was too funny! You can see the pic to the right (in the slide show) with all of them holding up their "cold hard cash"! Thanks gramma bunnies for the cute eggs - man those kids were so excited! Thanks to Jamie for taking the rest of the pics of the day - as my camera's batteries died. Oops.

Oh yea - Jamie, Mike and the kids are back home! They made it safe and sound! Looks like they are going to be staying with us for awhile, as they can't get post housing for 4-6 months, they can't register the kids for school in the springs until they get housing. So everyone will know how to get a hold of them at least until school is out!

Spring Blizzard 2009

2009-03-27T16:59:00.007-06:00

Yesterday we got a huge snowstorm! I work about 11.5 miles from here and it took me 2.5 hours to get home. We got about 15 inches - but with the wind, the drifts were well over 2 feet. Today was a lovely day, Kaitlyn was especially excited to get out and play in the snow! Krista and Kylie, and her friend Kylie Sue were out sledding so we joined them!

Playing in the backyard with Guinness

"I am making a snowball man!"

On your marks, get set, GO!

Weeeeeeeeeeeeeee!

I thought this bird was so pretty! He was probably so confused! "Where did all the stems and blooms go?!"

Here are the girls - Man they sure had a blast!!

Krista took one of Kaitlyn and I - such a great pic!

These last two pics - are priceless! Krista and Kaitlyn went down, crashed and got up laughing - Here is the video to prove it! HA HA HA!

What a great place we live in!

The best craft ever!

2009-03-27T16:40:00.006-06:00

I was browsing Easter crafts online and came across this one... Easter egg window clings!

Here are a few pics of the ones we made!

They were so simple! All you need is:
a roll of clear contact paper, paint brushes, paint (we used acrylic), fine sandpaper and masking tape. Go here: http://www.skiptomylou.org/2008/03/06/window-silhouettes/ for the complete instructions of how to make them. They were simple and easy - and Kaitlyn really loved it! Two recommendations: 1) cut the squares out ahead of time (I made mine 6x6) for each "egg" you make cut two pieces of contact paper. (You can get a roll of contact paper at wal-mart for cheap!) 2) once the paint is dry - flatten the squares with a heavy book overnight - that way they won't roll up on you!

The ideas for this craft are limitless! Spring flowers - Flags and stars - pumpkins etc. etc! I imagine you can use finger paints - but I used acrylic.

Enjoy crafty friends!

A "surprise?" party for Mike

2009-03-27T13:56:00.006-06:00

I'm sure you all noticed the title - It was supposed to be a surprise poker party for my husband's 38Th birthday. My dear, sweet husband pretended he knew nothing (when i say pretended, it was more like put on a show) for a few days until i was convinced someone blew it. Yes, someone did blow it!! ME!!!

I inadvertently sent my husband a text message (meant for his friend Rayme) telling him all about his surprise party. Sigh. Oh well - it was the thought that counted right? It ended up being a blessing because I had him help! :-)

The party was great - All our friends and neighbors came, the kids had a blast!

Here are a few of my favorite pics from the night!

Monique and Sarah C.

Sarah B and Krista

Rayme (and baby Makayla), Rico suave (I mean Roger) and Mike. AKA the brat pack.

Rayme, Mike and Jan chillin'

Rayme, Gabe and Mike having a birthday "libation"!

To see all of the pics go here:

http://www.slide.com/r/EvWBpFyF4z_5cH6SDtvgv2HasjKKNhC9?previous_view=mscd_embedded_url&view=original

Thanks to everyone who came - and did their best not to tell Mike. I promise the next "surprise" party I throw will actually be a surprise! Sigh - And as you can see I was too busy playing poker to take a pic of everyone playing the game! Next time! :-)

On his actual Birthday, I had dinner for the family - Mike got a lot of nice gifts (and I can't wait to put him to work using them!) and was really pleased - so thanks to the family for the nice gifts and the company!

Uncle Mikey keeps his promise

2009-03-27T13:44:00.004-06:00

While Mike was fighting the war in Iraq, he would call or email or video chat with us to keep in touch. Kaitlyn LOVES her uncle Mikey. In fact most other people are chopped liver if Uncle Mikey is around. Anyway - while he was in Iraq he promised to bring Kaitlyn a present back from Iraq. He got home safe and sound (Thank you Jesus!) from his third tour and sent her this:

Now - the thing around her waist is supposed to go around her head, but she wasn't having it - so I think it's cute as a belt too! It's a tad too small ;-(

so I am asking my friend at work if she can alter it some so it will fit her for a bit -

You have to agree, she is ADORABLE!

Thanks Uncle Mikey -

February has come and gone -

2009-03-27T13:07:00.003-06:00

Man - where did that month go? I was sick I think the whole month! Now that we are all healthy in this house - knock on wood - I feel like updating my blog!

So - most of you know that I really could care less about Valentine's day - I think its a commercial holiday and it's really something fun for the kids. I would rather get flowers, or go out to dinner because it's "insert any old day of the week here" not because Hallmark tells you to do something special. It feels too contrived. However, I know that it is a special day for many people (my Mom and Jennifer, Krista) so I try to be sensitive to that. This year my Mom and Jennifer were here, so we planned a really nice dinner at home - at a fraction of the price I might add! When I got home, Mike and Kaitlyn surprised me with some flowers. I love flowers! These weren't your average grabbed from a grocery store bucket flowers - they were handmade and so thoughtful! THIS is what Valentine's should be about. I was so touched and it is something that I will cherish forever!

You can see pics in the slideshow to the left.

We made King crab legs and filet Mignon - steamed asparagus, garlic Parmesan mashed potatoes and I ate everything! I was so full - man, I love food!

All in all it was a great day!

The cutest blog on the block

2009-02-22T17:35:00.002-07:00

Who ever sent me the link to http://www.thecutestblogontheblock.com , officially ROCKS!

Thank you - THANK YOU - Thanks a million!
I LOVE IT!

I have "anonymous" to thank for the cute St. Patrick's day blog!

I also added a "following" Gadget to my blog - If you're a fan of my blog, please let me know! I always love your comments and suggestions!

First haircut!

2009-02-10T10:00:00.006-07:00

So, I broke down and trimmed Kaitlyn's hair for the first time. I took about three inches off! It seems like a lot when you look at it! Her hair was getting so tangley, it was time!

:-(

When I was all finished, she looked at me and said "well, that didn't hurt at all"!

Man, she's so cute!

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo

2009-02-10T09:17:00.009-07:00

Saturday we decided to get out of the house for a family day! We headed up to the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo! Despite the cold (it was a bit chilly) we had a great time! Mike and I hadn't been there in years, and Kaitlyn had never been. Quite a lot has changed! It seemed a lot friendlier, and more welcoming! The giraffes were awesome as always, but the new enclosure was pretty cool! I especially liked feeding the birds. We got some great shots of the day, and I know we all had a good time!

Here is a pic of Mike and Kaitlyn feeding the birds. As you can see - she was terrified! I'm surprised she didn't give herself whiplash ducking so much!

These tigers were SO cute! They we so playful! We really enjoyed watching them!

Here we are on what seems like, the top of the world! It really was beautiful! And yes, I am wearing ear muffs - I love my ear muffs! :-)

Well, that's it for now - hope you enjoy the pics and the videos!

Good Day Sunshine

2009-02-09T17:17:00.006-07:00

Kaitlyn and I decided to have a girls day in the sunshine! The weather was 70! It was awesome! We went to the park and fed the geese and the ducks. We walked around the lake and played at the playground! It was a lot of fun! I really loved spending time with my little pumpkin. She is growing so fast!!

Like father like Daughter - Lord please help me!

2009-02-09T17:04:00.005-07:00

So - the other day, Kaitlyn was getting ready to go outside and play and she announces "This is my new invention, and I need to take it outside!" Mike thought it was the MOST hysterical thing ever. I didn't think it was that funny! Since then EVERYTHING is about her "invention".

For those of you who don't know - Mike is an aspiring inventor. When he gets on his inventing kick, that is ALL he talks about 24/7. He lives, eats, breathes and talks invention. Which means that I live, eat and breathe invention.

I can barely stand one inventor - but I draw that line at two.

Unless one of them makes it big - ;-)

Good bye Toddler - Hello Big Girl!

2009-02-02T15:36:00.006-07:00

I knew this day would come - I just wasn't ready for it. I didn't expect her to grow this quickly!

You might think I am talking about some monumental, life altering occasion but, I'm not (not really anyway). A few weeks ago we took down the toddler bed and gave Kaitlyn a big girl bed.

I didn't think that this was going to be a big deal for me, but it was! I was really sad! It seems like just yesterday I was changing diapers, and now I'm researching pre-school!

It was time, I mean her toes were sticking out of the bottom slats! That doesn't make it any easier to see her growing up!

We also took the time to put up the shelves that I made for her about a year and a half ago!

She really likes her new bed, in fact she sleeps really good in it! Which makes me happy! She is especially fond of the T.V. which is playing milo and otis constantly now.

Well... That's all for now!

Have a great week!

Curry Reception

2009-02-02T12:29:00.007-07:00

A few weeks ago I had the pleasure of taking pictures for my cousin Jeff's reception. He and his wife Christy got married in Georgia in December. My Aunt Patty threw a reception for them at her house and it was wonderful! I really enjoy working on things like this with her - it's kind of "our thing". And, I must say we are getting pretty good at it! Click the link below to see a slide show of the day. I hope you enjoy the pics and can get a sense of the "unity" of this family!

http://www.slide.com/r/ZQlhfjsC4T_2wmU9igwug8w4p4sDkEYl?previous_view=mscd_embedded_url&view=original

Christmas? Still? SWEET!

2009-02-02T11:56:00.004-07:00

Here is a video just for Aunt JJ and Uncle Mikey - But you can look too! ;-)

She really loved both gifts - and she really misses you guys!

Let it Snow, Let it Snow, LET IT SNOW!

2009-02-02T11:19:00.011-07:00

A few weeks ago it snowed and Kaitlyn was so excited to get out and play! She is much like her Daddy in that aspect! They both LOVE the snow! Here are some pics and video of her fun!

A shot of her making a snow angel. I tried teaching her this last winter but she just couldn't understand why I wanted her to wave her arms and legs around while lying in the snow. It's funny how much things change in a year!

Totally Happy!

Here she is getting ready to throw a snowball at me! Even the cold doesn't put a damper on that ornery spirit!

Snow Angel in action

Brr! She grows so fast! Time for a new coat with longer arms!

Time to warm up!

Have a great day!

darn html codes!

2009-01-12T17:47:00.004-07:00

So, I thought I was savvy enough to conquer changing my template to something "valentinesy". I thought to myself "surely I can figure it out now - I mean after all I've been blogging for almost a year." HA HA HA! I way over estimated how savvy I am ! I have been trying for a week to change it. Why can't they just make it easy? Why do I have to KNOW how to write HTML codes? You don't have to know how to do that in myspace? Come on blogger! Get with the times!

So - as you can see you're stuck with the hotpink until I can figure it out.

Additionally - is it me? Or does it seem like blogger goes down or freezes up a lot?!

:-(

Christmas

2009-01-06T21:02:00.011-07:00

Christmas was a blessing! We had so much fun! Kaitlyn was so excited! For months all she asked for was a trampoline from Santa. When she came down the stairs, she froze. Her eyes got HUGE and she yelled "Santa was here! And he brought me a TRAMPOLINE!!!" It was so heart-warming! That was her favorite gift until Auntie Shell brought the dress up trunk. Then THAT was her "frave-rit"! LOL.

Mike was really surprised to get the GPS. He had no idea! I finally got one over on him! I was sure he would figure out that I got him a paint set - complete with brushes and a canvas (because he had said he wanted to try painting); but he was completely surprised! When I asked him what he thought he was going to get he said "a drill". LOL Go me! It felt really good to give that to him! It was worth fighting through the crowd and traffic at Park Meadows! :-)

Honestly the gift giving is always my favorite - not that I don't like getting (LOVE IT) but it really does warm my heart to give.

She was a little reserved at first! But that quickly changed....

The night ended with her getting in to the make-up that Santa brought and smearing it all over her eyes. Oh - it was lip gloss. Pink. With sparkles. And as you can hear - she thinks it looks beautiful!

I hope everyone was blessed this Christmas, and I hope for many more blessings in the New Year!

Cookie's

2009-01-06T20:26:00.004-07:00

I have tried to make a habit of baking for Christmas - even if I was running a bit behind. I didn't get my cookies baked until the 24Th! So - if you weren't within arms reach, you didn't get any! That goes for cards too! :-( My hope is to send out "happy new year" Christmas cards!
Oh well!
I recruited mike and we all had a blast! He wasn't too in to it at first, but he quickly got in the mood and we really enjoyed ourselves! Kaitlyn had so much fun and she was so meticulous in her decorating!

Trimming the tree

2008-12-18T22:58:00.006-07:00

We also took some time to decorate the house for christmas. My NEW camera takes video too... here are a few!

Let's see... what HAVE I been up to?

2008-12-18T19:48:00.010-07:00

So - things have been a little out of hand here but I thought I would take a few minutes to update you all!

First - My mom was in the hospital for two weeks. This was after a few brief stints in the hospitals in Canon and Pueblo. So - I had been going back and forth to the hospital in Aurora - merely for moral support. They still aren't sure what was wrong - but she couldn't walk or feel her legs or arms. She has been going through this for over two years now.

She is doing a little better now.....but still not certain what is wrong.

On a lighter side - we attended breakfast with Santa again this year, and as always it was a lot of fun! Kaitlyn is still asking for a trampoline from Santa! I had to laugh because all she wanted last year was candy. This is year it's a trampoline, a WHITE barbie jeep - because she doesn't like the pink one anymore, lots of Disney princess things and the list goes on and on.

Here are a few pics of our day:

We also celebrated my Great Grandmother's 96Th birthday! We weren't able to be there on her actual birthday because we were sick. So we came with cake and gifts the following week. I always enjoy spending time with her. She is the kindest most wise person I have ever met and I strive to be anything like her.

I also celebrated a birthday! My husband threw me a party for my 34Th birthday! My friends and family came and it was a great time! My husband got me a new camera that I just love! I was so excited - about all my gifts and about spending time with my friends and family! Thank you to everyone who came and celebrated with me!

Thank you to my wonderful husband for throwing me a party when I wasn't in a party mood. I was really grateful that he saw the opportunity to lighten the mood of this otherwise stressful month! Love you!

Brr! It's cold outside ... and dark!

2008-11-14T17:03:00.008-07:00

I can't stand daylight savings time. I think it is the most stupid thing ever! I can't stand waking up when its pitch black outside and I really love getting off work at noon to the freaking sun going down. Okay - so that is a slight exaggeration. But It's not too far off! IT'S NOT THE 1800'S AND WE AREN'T FARMERS! Even the farmers don't use daylight savings time anymore. Uggh. I think we should put in on the ballot next election. I vote "spring forward" all the time!

Okay - I'm off my soap box now!

It snowed here today - about 1/2 an inch! Kaitlyn had asked to go out all day! So - here she is playing in our first snow! LOL

The video is 30 seconds long - she was back inside about one minute later! LOL!

Last week I took Kaitlyn to the children's museum for the first time! It brought back a lot of memories of taking Akasha there. They have a lot of new things! It was really cute we had a great time. When we got there the Platte River trolley was running - so we took a quick ride! She really had a great time! We played and played there! She really liked the toddler area. It's a little less "crazy"! And it's decorated really cute - like a meadow with trees that you can go in! These aren't the best pics - they were taken with my phone. But still cute enough to share! Oh - I wanted to share that the 1st Tuesday of every month is free day at the museum! Check the website for times etc.

The trolley

Us taking a ride!

There was a big magnet board - that I thought would be pretty boring but she really like it. We played there for quite sometime!

For those of you that have been there before - they still have the grocery store and the kitchen. She liked it - but the other kids had bought most of the food and wouldn't share. She got bored really quick.

Here we are at the Vet clinic. She really like that! Isn't she super cute?!

Here is "firefighter" Kaitlyn! They have an old fire truck that kids can climb on - and little coats and hats to wear. I cringed when she put it on (I'm such a germ-a-Phoebe) but I had to admit she looked pretty cute!

This is in the toddler area. I really recommend this for anyone with kids 3 and under. We spent most of our time here!

Well that's it for now! It's been a really long week - and I'm looking forward to the weekend!

Halloween 08

2008-11-02T10:24:00.009-07:00

We had such a great time! We started at about 6:00, which proved to be agonizing because she was dressed and ready to go for about and hour. As you can imagine every five minutes I heard "can we go trick-or-treating now?"

"wing wong the witch is dead....lalala....GET OUT OF BED!" LOL She is so cute!

We set out about the same time as all the neighbors with little ones, so she was really excited to see everyone! Here she is with Jane at our neighbors house!

There was only one house that scared her - and I felt so bad because I was on the sidewalk waiting for her - and she just started bawling! They had a door cover on - and when you knocked it screamed at you. Poor baby. She quickly got over it tho when he gave her extra candy!

I just have to say how grateful I am to live in this neighborhood! Our whole community is so welcoming and safe! I was so happy to see all our friends and neighbors out and about - and all the kids laughing and having a great time! This is what a community should feel like! Lot's of people dressed up and decorated and really made it fun for the kids! My friend and neighbor Kristy had an open house for all the neighbors with soup and appetizers for everyone! It was so nice! Kaitlyn really enjoyed herself and so did I!

Of course, no Halloween would be complete without a sugar buzz!

Mike and I finished off the night with our friends Krista and Jan, and good game of Rummikub! Check out the slideshow on the side for more pics. You can click a picture for the full size version.

All in all a great Halloween!

Crafting, crafting, CRAFTING!!!!

2008-10-27T10:27:00.008-06:00

I haven't posted in a while, because I have been in my "room" crafting like a fiend for weeks (it seems). Now that I work at Michael's, I have been in crafting overload. My brain literally is going a mile a minute every day that I am at work. So, It's been really satisfying to be able to release some of that creative energy! Although I should be working on Christmas stuff (I am SO FAR behind) this was a lot of fun! I will post a pic later of our Halloween house!

I have been a crafter for a long time, but this year it's especially fun because Kaitlyn has been crafting with me! She was so meticulous and precise. I had to get a pic of her painting this cat. She barely got any black on herself! I was so proud! LOL

Here are some pics and a few little videos of our fun!

Deep in creative thought

Last week, my neighbor Sarah needed to get some painting done herself, so she asked if I would watch Jane for a bit! I immediately sat them down for a craft! They loved it! Jane is so cute - and I always enjoy her! The girls crafted, sang, danced and of course argued a bit. But - all in all it was fun for all!

Sarah returned the favor by taking Kaitlyn to a "trunk-or-treat" party at her church. Everybody parks their cars - and puts candy in their trunks so the kids can go around and fill their baskets with treats. Kaitlyn has wanted to be Dorothy for Halloween for two months! Needless to say she was especially excited when they day FINALLY arrived that she got to put her costume on! Here are a few pics - I know there will be more -and you can probably check out Sarah's blog for some too...

I have SO many cute shots of her - but I'll stop it there! Kaitlyn had such a great time! Thank you to Sarah and Andrew for letting her be a part of their fun!

She can't believe that she gets to do it again on Friday!

Oh - one more hysterical shot...

After a fun filled craft day - We put K to bed, and as always before I go to bed I check on her. This is what I found.

She was SOUND ASLEEP! I took pictures and everything - she didn't budge! Ahhh, to be a kid!

Well - I need to get crafting!

Check back soon!

Day at the Zoo

2008-10-08T10:53:00.008-06:00

Yesterday was a free day at the zoo so K and I decided that it would be fun to check it out! We had such a good time and the weather was perfect. It was nice to spend some time with her and enjoy each other's company. She walked the entire zoo! She only asked to get in the stroller when we were on our way out.

See our day in the slideshow above this post.... I haven't figured out how to embed a slideshow in here yet.

When we got home - She decided to do this:

The part you didnt hear was the most hysterical thing ever! Mike was in there - and said "Kaitlyn, haven't we told you to draw only on paper?" She said " WHO SAID THAT? I never said that!" I laughed so hard I nearly peed!
That's when I grabbed the camera but - of course the funny part was past.

Race for the Cure

2008-10-05T20:19:00.005-06:00

We had a great time! We got up bright and early and Kaitlyn was none too pleased that "it was TOO bright in her room". But she quickly got over it when her hot chocolate was ready and blueberry muffins to eat. We took the light rail downtown, and that was an adventure in itself. The trains were only running every 15 minutes. The first one was full so we decided to wait for the next one - which was a mistake. That train was even fuller, so we crammed our way on. Luckily the light rail is fast and it was only about 20 minutes to downtown!

We did the 5k co-ed walk. It was such an amazing experience.

Thanks to everyone who sponsored us - it went to a great cause! We really enjoyed our family day!

Us at the start of the day - Kaitlyn was super excited! She got a hat cause the guy at the donation station thought she was especially cute! Which - she is!

On our way to the start line! The race started on Speer above I-25

Kaitlyn especially loved all the bands that played along the way!

On Federal near 29th

walking past Invesco Field

Heading for Colfax - This actually (for me) the coolest part of the whole race. This is really where you get to see the sea of people. It's really breathtaking and moving.

On Colfax - So cool. LOL this is the one and only time is SO Cool to be walking on Colfax.

SHUT UP. I know I opened myself up to a whole slew of comments....

Looking to the North East over Auraria Parkway

the I-25 on ramp from Colfax. From above it forms a ribbon. So amazing.

I didn't get a pic of the finish line because Mike and I got separated in all my picture taking. I spent 30 minutes trying to find him. But - when we got to the Auraria campus, Kaitlyn was excited to see Ronald McDonald!

The day was great - the weather was awesome and my heart felt full.

Day at the Museum

2008-10-05T18:50:00.011-06:00

Last week Mike and I met our friend Sarah at the Littleton Museum and Historical Society. I have lived here my whole life and never knew this place was there! It was so cute! It has 39 acres, the museum consists of two living history farms (one from the 1860’s and one from the 1890’s), a small lake and a really cute museum. It was such a great family day - I highly recommend it, and the best part is that it's FREE! :-) There are several farms and they sell all the crops at local farmer's markets. The people that work their dress in period costumes.

Here are some pics of the day!

Here is Jane and Kaitlyn in the blacksmith shop.

Kaitlyn, Jane and Jane's cousin checking out the pig! I just love these shots from behind like this!

The cutest pic ever of Jane

Kaitlyn jammin on the 1800's piano. This was in the house on the 1890's side I think (or the 1860's I really can't remember but it was SO cute!) I wish I had gotten more pictures of the house - I was too busy looking around.

Posing for a pic in the flower garden.

Mike taking a "time out" LOL! This was one of many outhouse's but it was the only one you could go in. Mike took this as his opportunity to stake his claim!

Another out house - This was outside of the "little house on the prairie" style house. That's not what it's called its just what I call it.

The inside of the house - upstairs is a loft style bedroom.

Pretty Corn

This is one of the barn's and it Kailtyn loves brooms - mostly because she is obsessed with the wizard of "hoz" now and she was being the "wicken witch of the WEST!"

My Angel

Sarah's Angel

Not the best pic - This was outside the ice house.

Inside the school house. This was the original school house in Littleton and it was used for quite a while.

The ham's LOL!

It was a really great day! We had a nice time and I'm sure we'll visit again!

Race for the Cure

2008-09-24T18:22:00.002-06:00

I walk for Jennifer, Aunt Shirley and all my "girls"!

I wanted to ask everyone for their support with a cause that is near and dear to my heart - The Susan G. Koman Race for the cure. I have participated in this event in the past and have found it to be a truly moving, remarkable and breath taking experience. Breast cancer has affected so many people in my short lifetime - I feel every step I make will help toward curing this awful disease. I know personally that the Susan G Koman foundation has helped MANY women, including those in my personal family circle, with their battle of breast cancer - whether financially or through a community of support.

Did you know that one in eight - ONE IN EIGHT - women will be stricken with breast cancer in her lifetime? This fact has convinced me that I need to get involved and help eradicate this awful disease.

So - I would like to invite you to join me in the 5k walk/run (as you know I won't be running - unless some crazy lady in pink is chasing me) on Sunday, October 5Th.

If you can't join me - I ask you to pledge me! Your tax deductible pledge will help women everywhere!

Every cent counts!

Please visit my personal page here:

http://www.komendenver.org/site/TR/Race/General?px=1184161&pg=personal&fr_id=1070

(If for some reason you can't find me just go to the home page: http://www.komendenver.org/site/PageServer?pagename=rfcd_homepage and enter a pledge under my name)

Thank you!

A little of this and that...

2008-09-20T13:11:00.007-06:00

It's been a while since I've updated - mainly because not a lot has gone on. We've just been working, cleaning and eating. Pretty boring really!

Here are a few pics so this isn't a total loss:

June bug loves to do EXACTLY what her daddy does - at times its a bit concerning but sometimes it's really cute. Mike was lying in bed watching a show (with his shirt off as you can see) and K decided that in order to watch the show with him she would have to take her shirt off too!

This is her "just like daddy pose"!

I came home from work the other day and discovered that Kaitlyn got in to my make up. Sigh. But it was cute - so I took a pic. It really wasn't as bad as it could have been!

My little super model!

My time lately has been occupied with making pumpkins for a display at work - Here are a few I've done so far!

Well that's all I have for now! Mike is cleaning out the garage - so I need to go monitor to make sure he doesn't throw out all my stuff! :-)

First Timer

2008-09-03T17:17:00.003-06:00

While at my mom's (and during a less painful tooth moment) we took the 4-wheeler's out! We had a great time! Mike and I explored the roads and took a few we had never taken before. The sun was on my face, the sky was blue, the weather was warm and I was totally calm and relaxed. The scenery was gorgeous! I was humming along - when Mike shouts at me "Is that all the faster that thing goes?!" with a familiar smirk. That did it! All the bliss went flying by and I wanted to leave him in the dust!

June Bug had her first 4-wheeler ride! After two days of coaxing she finally decided she would be a big girl and try. She loved it! We were riding along and Mike took off ahead of us and she looked and me and shouted " GO FASTER! I WANT TO CATCH UP!" We couldn't get her off!

The trip up there was fun (painful, but fun) and I had a good time playing games!

Ouch

2008-09-03T16:50:00.003-06:00

So I finally had to go to the dentist to get my tooth fixed. Uggh
I had to get a root canal and a crown...
So here's the back story.
I got our dental insurance last July. So I have had coverage for almost 14 months. I chipped my tooth about 6 months ago or so ... but it wasn't that painful - a bit sensitive to hot and cold but nothing that I couldn't deal with. So - I thought to myself ( I do that often) "I can wait for a few months until my I have had my insurance for 12 months - so it's covered!" Decidedly proud of myself for being so thrifty... I move on with my life. Two months ago a teeny-weenie piece of a filling fell out of said tooth. When I say "teeny-weeny" I mean like the size of a piece of pepper. The kind in the cheap can, not the fresh ground. It started hurting more. So - I looked up my insurance coverage to see what it was going to cost. I WASN'T COVERED YET! Seriously?! I was on an 18 month waiting list. Freaking great!
So - I thought - OK. I just wont chew on that side and I will be extra extra careful. Oh wait - I forgot to tell you that to get the tooth fixed it would be almost $2000.00! Yes - 2K! So obviously I wanted to wait until my insurance covered 50-80%.
Last Saturday we decided to go up to my Mom's in the mountains. I had a cold - so I thought I should chew some gum to help my ears pop (because they were plugged without the elevation). I put a piece of watermelon bubble gum in my mouth. Chew for approximately two minutes. Then it happened. THE MOST EXCRUCIATING PAIN I HAVE EVER FELT IN MY LIFE! And - as you know I've given birth. I broke out in a sweat - my hand shook - my face was numb and hot - I couldn't hear out of my right ear. My neck and shoulders immediately were stiff. I was pretty sure I was having a stroke (or something that serious). Nope. My tooth cracked and hit the root. Sigh.
Needless to say the weekend get away had a major "damper".
Oh - here's a bit of advice. If you do break a tooth (or have tooth pain etc) swish your mouth with one ounce of warm water, and 3 drops of tea tree oil. Yes - I said tea tree oil. No - it doesn't taste good. BUT it helped. It got me through the weekend and kept the break clean and infection free! (It was in my mom's natural remedies book). Too cool!
Anyway - the pain was so bad I had decided I just wanted the tooth pulled. My husband was like " Um.... no. I think it will make you feel self-conscious."
I think he just didn't want a toothless wife! LOL - It wasn't like it was a front tooth or anything. But (and don't tell him) he was right. I'm sure I would have felt very aware of it.
I decided to go to Comfort Dental - because I heard their prices were cheaper than regular dentist's. NOT!
The dentist did a great job - the dental assistant was nice. All of that was overshadowed by the fact that I was informed they didn't have a payment plan (when the guy - DAVID - I spoke to said "they'll work with you for anything.") AFTER they did the work. So- here I am with a swollen face, sore mouth and gums, a temporary crown and a headache when they tell me "That will be $1600.00 please. I almost chocked on my numb swollen tongue. After some arguing and a call to my husband, the Dentist informed me "I have a headache, I've worked hard all day and I don't need this!"
Can you believe that?! HE?! HE HAS A HEADACHE?! Well I'm sure all of you know how I responded. I really can't post it here. Just use your imagination.
We are set up with a payment plan now. :-)
That's all .... just had to rant a bit.

My thoughts on the Democratic National Convention

2008-08-28T21:31:00.004-06:00

I just finished watching Barack Obama's speech. I am speechless.
Many of you know me- and you know that RARELY happens.

Most of you know that I am a supporter of Hillary Clinton. I was disappointed that she couldn't continue her race for president. Since then - I have been following this election, from a distance.

Having said that - I was moved by Barack's speech. I was moved almost to tears. He is an eloquent speaker, visually painting a picture- but aside from that, I believed what he was saying.

Maybe I'm hormonal but I truly was inspired by his words and I truly believe he is THE BEST PERSON TO RUN OUR COUNTRY.

I will not go on and on and spout my political beliefs but I will say how important it is for EACH AND EVERY PERSON that is able to VOTE!!!!!

Please don't call me a "flip flopper" or taking the popular vote. I have viewed both candidates as a "team" of sorts. I thought either would do a magnificent job of running our country - Let's face it - anything is better than the boob that is in there now! :-)

Let's take back our country and let's show the rest of the world how great America is and how lucky we are to live here! Make your voice heard!

Again?!

2008-08-11T12:33:00.008-06:00

So, like Sarah I don't have much to report other than today is my day off and I have been taking it really slowly! I was thinking of running some errands later but the later it gets the less I want to go!

I am posting this photo and video only because it's the 2ND time it's happened in two days. Yesterday's was much worse (most of the roll) and I was in NO mood to record it for posterity. Today I got some rest and I thought it might be funny later on.

Well, That's really all I have for today!
Fish taco's for dinner tonight! YUM!
OMG! I almost forgot! I saved $118.00 on my grocery's at Safeway the other night with all my coupons! WOO HOO GO ME! Thanks to Sarah who motivated me to use my coupons to their fullest potential! :-)

My daughter cracks me up

2008-08-05T21:12:00.003-06:00

One more thing - before I forget!

Kaitlyn has been on an arguing kick lately. Its a nifty little thing she recently picked up - "no i didn't - yes you did - no I didn't - uh-huh, uh uh, uh huh... blah blah - you get the picture.

Last night, after a fun filled day of arguing with a three year old (which I will address later) this is what happened:

"Kaitlyn, you need to go potty on the big girl potty before bed."

"No I don't"

"yes you do"

"but i don't"

"but you do"

"I already went pee pee."

"when?"

"yesterday!"

"Kaitlyn go pee pee right now please"

"fine-uh (another nifty little thing she picked up)"

"Mommy - did you dump my pee pee?"

"yes"

"no you didn't" "yes i did" "no" "YES" "but you didn't" "but I did" "No" "YES!"

Then i shout "KAITLYN - JUST LOOK! IS THERE PEE PEE IN THE POTTY?!"

"No, (she says with a smile)"

"See -?! (I say) Mommy was right! MOMMY IS RIGHT! STOP ARGUING WITH MOMMY! I AM RIGHT!"

She announces "I am left".

What else could I do but bust out laughing.

File this under unforgettables!

You may be asking yourself why? why am I arguing with a three year old child?

The answer is quite simple. I will give you multiple choice and all the answers are correct.

1. I love fighting a losing battle.

2. I am insane (at least lately).

3. Because I don't have enough on my plate that I feel I need to occupy my few spare moments in idle chit chat.

Deep breath in - and out. There I feel "bettert" as Kaitlyn would say!

My favorite site!

2008-08-05T20:27:00.004-06:00

So, I was browsing through one of the emails that I subscribe to from babycenter.com and I discovered one of my favorite articles that I used to read - now has a BLOG! WOO HOO

Well actually - she's had it for some time and I just haven't paid attention.

It's called Very Violet and I read it from the day Kaitlyn was born until the time they stopped the article (which was at the end of Violet's first birthday). Violet and Kaitlyn are only months apart and I just loved the way Joyce wrote. It was very picturesque and charming. It's the kind of writing I aspire to! I remember feeling so much better about my parenting skills (or lack there of) after I read her article. It really helped me feel like I was normal - and the things I was experiencing was normal. And, above all - KAITLYN was normal!

So - I am super stoked about this and I guess you all know what I'll be doing in the coming weeks.... checking up on Joyce and Violet!

If you all want to check it out for yourself I put a link under my "friends". Or, just go to babycenter.com and go to "momformation". Her blog is called very violet!

Catching up!

2008-07-28T10:08:00.009-06:00

I have been working a lot lately so I haven't had the time (or the energy quite frankly) to update you all on the comings and goings here. Today is my first day off in a week!

Well, I will start by saying that Kailtyn is 98% potty trained. 98%? Yes - She goes pee and poop in the potty AND sleeps in her big girl panties but refuses to go potty outside of home. We don't go places very often so it's fine by me. The other night was my Papo's 74Th birthday and we all went over to celebrate it (which I will talk about later) and I asked Kaitlyn 3 times if she had to go potty - then she comes running in from outside, naked as the day she was born, and proudly announces " I went PEE PEE in the yard"! LOL. Well, at least she didn't pee her pants!

Back to the birthday - My grandpa is 74! He is doing pretty well all things considered. His Parkinson's is advancing but the therapy he is getting really helps keep his muscles from stiffening up. I think he really enjoyed our company. All the kids (and Mike) went outside to play softball and had a great time! Oh - when we pulled up this is what we saw:

Isn't that amazing? I thought it was a beautiful site. That hive was probably as big as a basketball. Can you imagine how long it took them to build that? Needless to say they called an exterminator and it will be gone soon.

Here are a few pics from the party:

Papo being silly

The best people in the world - my granny & my daughter

Playing ball

Yesterday we filled up the pool (even tho it had a leak) and built a home-made water slide! The kids absolutely loved it! I was cracking up at them! It was SO hot yesterday when I got home from work - I knew the kids were probably hot and miserable. We all had a good time - even when they were splashing Jamie and I!

After pool time my husband took me out on a date! We went to dinner and a movie! It was nice! We saw the new batman movie and it was really good! It was nice to get out of the house for the evening! Mike and I thought we had better take advantage of Jamie being here before she leaves in a week!

Heath Ledger was amazing - It was sad - it was probably the best performance of his career. Well, that's all I have time for today!

Check back soon!

Camping & 4th of July 2008

2008-07-17T15:31:00.007-06:00

We went to Lake DeWeese for the 4Th of July weekend to go camping. We had a great time, although it seems to me that it was WAY to much work. It took me two days to get stuff ready to pack, one whole day to get it set up when we were there, one whole day to tare down and two days to clean up once we got back. And that isn't even the work involved while we were there (the cooking the cleaning etc.). Overall it was a good time and I captured some fun pics!

We took a hiatus from camping to go up to Mom's to ride the 4-wheelers! It took a little while to get my "groove" back - but I finally did and it was SO much fun! ;-) As you can see from the pic, Mike never lost his groove - he LOVES riding!

Kaitlyn's first time fishing! And with her new Barbie fishing pole!

Their "Diamond" Rocks.

Check back soon for more updates and fun photo's!

Christy

P.S. I almost forgot! KAITLYN POOPED ON THE POTTY! I hope it wasn't a fluke - since she went on the 15th, and hasn't gone again. Keep your fingers crossed folks!

INTERNET IS BACK!!!!!

2008-07-17T15:09:00.002-06:00

So, we didn't have internet for over two weeks! I feel so out of the loop! I'm back now and after I get through my 100+ emails I will update this blog with pics from camping and the 4th!

Check back soon!

Lakeside

2008-07-01T12:36:00.008-06:00

The other night we were trying to find something fun for Kaitlyn to do and that we could all enjoy as a family. Mike said "what about going to Lakeside Amusement park"?

So - off we went! I will admit that I was a little scared. I mean the last time I was at lakeside I was worried that:

1) I was going to get "shanked" in the kiddie park

2) I was going to contract some terrible disease if I touched anything

and 3) I was pretty sure the rides had NEVER been serviced and I was probably putting my life in jeopardy by riding even the carousel.

Well - maybe I was a little jaded back then. NO- it wasn't the cleanest place and YES some of the rides were broken but; we actually had a great time! What made it even better is that the kids there were there weren't crying or yelling, they were all smiling and happy! Kaitlyn always does better at new things if the kids are happy!

Mike and I both thought that Kaitlyn would be really nervous and stand-offish about riding the rides but we were pleasantly wrong! She was SO excited! She hopped right on and smiled the whole time! Here are a few videos & Pics of the fun we had!

That's all for now! Check back soon!

Not potty training and Going Camping

2008-07-01T12:17:00.003-06:00

So life at the manzzy house has been crazy and one thing after another! Kaitlyn has all but quit trying to go potty on the potty. I bought lots of "potty presents" that she gets to have when she finally goes poop, she has chocolates (which worked for Jane and Kaitlyn seemed enthusiastic), she has jelly beans (JELLY BELLY'S EVEN), she has stickers and even a potty chart so she can see how good shes done. She was doing GREAT going pee - we have a whole chart of "pee" progress - but poop - well POOP she wont go! One day last week Akasha was trying to teach her how to go poop and she sat there and pushed for 30 minutes or so - and when she got up the seat stuck to her butt and she screamed that it hurt so now she doesn't want to be a "big gruel" at all. Sigh. I have no idea what to do next other than demanding that she go. Yesterday I was so frustrated that I told her she couldn't have anymore candy until she went potty on the big girl potty. I know that's wrong but I was desperate. I should have started this a year ago when I wanted to (not when the DR. told me to) because she would have been much more open to the idea and I could have molded her easier. NOW - she has an opinion of her own and her own idea of what a big "gruel" is. Sigh again.

We are going to go camping this weekend and I am excited and nervous. I sure hope Kaitlyn does well but if not my Mom's is not that far away. So - I wont be blogging for a bit (no access) but I'm sure I will have lots of fun stories when I get back!

Have a safe and happy 4th -

God bless this country and god bless our troops!

3rd Birthday Party Slideshow

2008-06-27T13:59:00.002-06:00

Here is a slideshow of some of the pics at the party. If you want to see them all - just click "view all images". :-)

3 Years old!

2008-06-26T14:10:00.004-06:00

The Birthday party was a success - sort of! It was really hot that day (in the 90's) and the T-Shirt thing didn't go quite as planned - but overall it was a great day! I was so busy that I didn't have time to stop and take it all in. After everyone went home and we were cleaning up I looked at my little girl; who seemed so big! I swear just last week she was barely crawling. Where did the time go? After the day was done, she looked at me and asked if she could have another "par-ree" tomorrow. I smiled and told her everyday was a party at our house, which appeased her!
The kids all said they had a great time (with exception of a few - but hey! You can't please them all right?) The pinata was a hit and the pool was a welcomed addition! At the end of the party I put my suit on and got in to cool off - which was my first mistake. The kids decided to dunk me. Then we decided it would be fun to throw Aunt JJ in too! :-) Of course no one captured this event on film. Actually it's a good thing because Im sure it wasn't the most picturesque scene!

Thanks to all my family and friends who helped make the day special!
Here are a few pics of the day!

Errr...see above. Sorry.