My Crazy Life with 4 kids!

Interview with Katie Mae!

2011-03-19T09:29:00.000-04:00

When Tommy was about 4ish I did this same interview with him. I did it with Katie the other day!

1. What is something mom always says to you?

I love you

2. What makes mom happy?

I love you mom, really much

3. What makes mom sad?

Saying I don't like you

4. How does your mom make you laugh?

Me giggling

5. What was your mom like as a child?

really nice

6. How old is your mom?

7. How tall is your mom?

30 lbs

8. What is her favorite thing to do?

Play with me

9. What does your mom do when you're not around?

go on your computer

10. If your mom becomes famous, what will it be for?
singing

11. What is your mom really good at?

Putting channels on the TV, I mean, driving your car

12. What is your mom not very good at?

I don't know!

13. What does your mom do for her job?

Take care of kids. That is one you are very good at!

14. What is your mom's favorite food?

Salad

15. What makes you proud of your mom?

Doing things that I don't know how to do

16. If your mom were a cartoon character, who would she be?

A dog

17. What do you and your mom do together?

Play

18. How are you and your mom the same?

Our hair

19. How are you and your mom different?

different shirts

20. How do you know your mom loves you?

Because you are so sweet and have a heart!

21. Where is your mom's favorite place to go?

Friendly's!

Chris's Birthday!

2011-03-15T12:25:00.000-04:00

Birthday's are a big deal in my house! I love celebrating for the individual person's special day. They get to choose what they want for dinner and what kind of cake.

March 11 was Chris's 38th birthday! Chris wanted pasta, meatballs and sausage. Cake was our favorite ice cream cake! Although, Casey is always disappointed because she doesn't like it. She thinks ice cream and frosting together is gross.

Tommy wanted to give Daddy a sledgehammer. Yes, a sledgehammer. I did cheat an told Chris, who gave me one he had so Tommy could give it to him.

He then used it on the cake!

Rockstar Tommy

2011-03-09T20:14:00.000-05:00

Diet? What Diet?

2011-03-08T16:37:00.000-05:00

How on Earth can I diet to fit into a bikini for our trip to Mexico in 2 weeks when they are selling these?!?!?!

Daddy's New Toy!

2011-03-07T16:35:00.000-05:00

A New Photographer in the House!

2011-03-04T14:57:00.000-05:00

Katie LOVES to take my camera and take pictures.

I found these in my camera recently!

I am "Saxe"

2011-02-25T16:22:00.002-05:00

Katie left me a note telling me I was sexy!

Monster Truck Show!

2011-02-22T12:52:00.000-05:00

We took the kids to a Monster Truck Show. They LOVED it! Tommy went last year with Chris. This year Katie wanted to go. So off we went!

At first she was nervous with the loud engines and wouldn't get off our laps!

Tommy got to see his ultimate FAVORITE truck! GRAVE DIGGER!

My favorite was watching the dirt bikes! They were amazing!

Of course eating the shaved ice was a favorite for Katie!

We even got to see Uncle Mike and Caden! They were 2 sections over from us!

In the end it was a great day! I would love to again again next year if the boys let me! Katie seemed to enjoy it! It wore her right out!

Valentines Day!

2011-02-17T13:52:00.004-05:00

With all the sickness in my house last week, I wanted to make Valentines Day special for the kids!

I decorated the table with tablecloth, glitter, candles and special plates.

I let the kids drink out of wine glasses. Man, they were THRILLED!

We all ate, the dinner planned didn't turn out so well. The kids didn't notice.....but I did!

I had a special dessert for us too!

I gave them each a little gift. I forgot to take pictures though.

Daddy came home with a rose for me, Katie and Casey. Katie loved hers because it had glitter on it!

Then Katie started taking pictures of herself! HA!

Since We Didn't Get the Flu Shot.......

2011-02-08T09:12:00.005-05:00

Katie has the flu!

Seriously, the one year I didn't get it for them!

Sunday she had a temp of 101. Monday afternoon it shot up to 103.4. Coughing, blotchy red skin. Called the DR. They wanted to see her.

"Do you mind if I give her a Flu test? I am just seeing it come around and am not sure of all the symptoms the kids are getting."

She gets a nose swab.....5 minutes later "Yes, that came up fast! She def has the flu!"

Serves me right for not getting the Flu shot! I will never do that again!

Another Installation of "Kids Say the Funniest Things!"

2011-02-06T17:22:00.005-05:00

They love taking my camera and taking pictures of themselves!

Katie told me today "When I grow up I want to be a Dad and a rockstar!" When I asked why she said "Because Dad's can do whatever they want and don't have babies!"

Katie : "When I grow up I want to marry Justin Beiber so I can be a mom!"

Tommy came off the bus one day (after talking to him about losing gloves and hats at school) "Mom! I didn't lose anything at school today!" The funniest part was he had his report card that he was excited to show me and not losing something was more important!

Katie cut out a picture of a person and said "I made this picture of Dad because it is kinda bald!"

Tommy "Ummm, Mom...you REALLY need to start buying Oreos!"

Tommy "Mom, if I had to vote for the most beautiful girl, I would vote for you!" awwwwww

Tommy after I asked him to get his pajamas on. (In his Harry Potter English accent voice) "Mother, there appears to be no jammies over here!"

Katie to Daddy "Daddy, when I grow up I want to be a teenager and a mom!" Daddy simply said, "That is great! You just can't be them at the same time!"

Snowmageddon!

2011-02-01T13:49:00.007-05:00

Seriously, we have so much damn snow here!

We have 2 feet on the ground and getting a foot more over the next 24 hours!

I wanted to share some pics from the last 2 weeks!

This was part of a huge icicle that was on my house!

Daughters and Daddy's

2011-01-18T15:07:00.007-05:00

It is amazing how much Katie loves her daddy.

She loves me, I know that. But not like she loves her Daddy.

The other day she said "Dad, I wish you weren't in my family!"

His heart sank, I was shocked.

Then she adds "So I can marry you"

Doesn't that just melt your heart?

**Take note.....she doesn't say that to me!***

A Burglar In The Making?

2011-01-14T14:44:00.004-05:00

I think I may have a burglar in the making!

Katie came down to tell me she locked herself out of her room.

She already had a paper clip stretched out straight and had tried to pick the lock. Apparently she couldn't do it and needed my help.

I took her upstairs and asked her to show me how she tried

She proceeded to show me!

She would have succeeded had she pushed it hard enough!!! I had to help her a bit and she did it!

Nor'Easter 2011

2011-01-12T16:24:00.005-05:00

Today we are dealing with a Nor'Easter that has dumped 18" of snow so far and it is still snowing!

Of course, no school.

The kids went outside...for 10 minutes. It is so deep they could hardly move!

Big Sister, Casey, tried to take them sledding......

It didn't last long. Katie got stuck, lost her boots, and couldn't move. Rescue Mission Katie went into effect.

Casey tried to pull her back up hill.

My Birthday!

2011-01-11T15:34:00.004-05:00

Yesterday was my 37th birthday.

I had a question that I need an answer to. When I was 36 I could say I was in my mid thirties. Can I still say that or am I now in my later 30s?

Anyways, my husband always makes fun of me and calls it my birthday month. Hey, I'll take it!

Saturday he had a day of surprises. He had an appointment for me to get a mani/pedi. He then had 2 outfits right down to the jewelry and shoes! We went to dinner in Boston and then to a comedy show. I had never been. It was so fun!

Yesterday, my actual birthday, I had breakfast with a friend, lunch with 2 friends and ended the day with my husband and kids. My favorite pizza from Bertucci's and ice cream cake. The kids made me pictures. Sam made me a homemade paper cake!

The little kids decorated the cake.

It was the best day!

Run, Run As Fast As You Can!

2011-01-07T12:45:00.006-05:00

In 2010 I kicked my running into high gear. Well, high gear for me!

I had started running on 2009. My first goal was to run a 5K. I caught the running bug and did several 5K's through the year.

2010 rolled around and I need new goals. The goal of 2010 was to run a half marathon. Which I did! Chris and I ran one together, even crossed the finish line together! It was so amazing and such a huge accomplishment for me.

I also ran a special 5K for the Good Samaritans. Which is near and dear to me. My high school best friend took her own life several years ago. Her sister has a team for their annual 5K fundraiser. This year we brought the little kids to. It is a great family day!

The craziest one was the Warrior Dash We had 40 people from our town doing it! We ran up a ski mountain, did obstacle like cargo nets, going through a pond, crawling in muddy water under barbed wire and jumping over fire (to name a few!)

SO THIS YEARS GOAL...........................................to do a Triathlon!
And I am now registered for 2! One in June and one in September!

Holy cow.....what am I getting myself into? Now I need to learn to swim! I can swim....just not really swim!

I also need to learn to bike. Yes, I can ride a bike. But I need a road bike, not a mountain bike or one of my kids bikes.

So as of this weekend, my training begins!!!!!

Silly Katie!

2011-01-03T16:36:00.000-05:00

Katie has been so funny the past year. She has the best and funniest personality of my brood.
I have to share some funny things she has said the past few weeks.

"Dad, you smell like a dad"

"Mom, when you are mean people, you ruin my day!" (when I wouldn't let her sleep with her Zhu Zhu Pet)

"When I grow up I am going to have a boy so Tommy can have a brother. He keeps asking for one!"

"Mom, when people die you have to marry someone else. Dad will die before you, me and Tommy so you will have to marry someone else." (I know, morbid)

"When you die, you go in the grass and they put a stone over you! I don't want to be part of the grass!"

In the mall she saw a security guard that looked about 75 She points and yells "Look! An old man police guy!"

At lunch with my dad,(just today!) he was rubbing her back. She loves it. She loves it so much she said (very loudly) "ahhhh....rub it baby!"

While at the Liquor Store we walked by the wine section and she yells "Mom, Dad! Look! It is the wine you like!!" If that wasn't bad enough, She saw the bottle of Skinny Girl Margarita I like, (it is delish) and said LOUDLY "MOMMA! There is your Skinny Girl drink!" When I put it in the carriage, she held it like a baby and said "This is my Skinny Girl baby!" I am assuming the people around us thought we were alcoholics seeing our kids knew what we drank! We aren't...she us just very observant!

I am sure I will collect more as the days go on! I should make as weekly post of them!

New Year, New Goals!

2010-12-31T14:32:00.003-05:00

Out with old, in with the new.

My goals for 2011

Do a Triathlon! I am signed up for one in June. I ran my 1st half marathon last June. I am not ready for a full marathon (Although friends tried to get me to do the Boston Marathon, maybe next year!)

Learn to ride a motorcycle! My husband gave me a gift certificate to a motorcycle safety class last year. I just never got there to do it. You take the safety class and at the end you take you test for your motorcycle license. I am hoping this spring I will get it done!

I don't want to many goals, I would feel to pressured! So I am going with 2 for now! When I accomplish these, maybe I will add a new one.

What are yours?

Christmas x3!

2010-12-30T08:29:00.009-05:00

Christmas in our house is a lot! We have Christmas with my dad, Christmas with the in laws and Christmas at my moms.
Oh and Christmas morning with us (and my in laws who come for breakfast)

I hosted 2 get togethers for Christmas Eve. Noon was with my Dad and siblings
5:30 was with the in laws. I was toast by the end!

Katie's favorite gift was her Pillow Pet from Auntie. She was even here this morning dropping my nephew off and Katie said "Auntie, thank you for my favorite present!"

Christmas morning. Was so fun! This year was so exciting. Katie just LOVED it and really understood what was going on!

She made pictures for us and put them under the tree.
Sami was special and got hers in a box!

She was also excited to give Daddy his.

When all the gifts were opened, she went under the tree to look for more!

Trying to get a family picture of all 6 of us is tough. So we tried just the kids first.

Then us!

I hope everyone had a Merry Christmas!

He Loves Me....He Loves Me Not!

2010-12-22T08:14:00.006-05:00

Tommy(7) is still into expressing himself through signs.

Yesterday Sami and I were the recipients or 2.

The first one is to Sam. She was home with him and he wanted to go outside in the snow. Problem was, Sami didn't know where all his snow stuff was. She found this:

"Meen sister hoo dus not let cids outside"

I loved the P.S "I love you Mom"

He didn't feel that way for long!
Later that night he got in trouble for being fresh. He lost his dessert. I found this:

"Meen parints hoo dus not let there sun eat!"

Earlier in the month, Tommy (1st grade) was to write about when someone was bossy to them He chose Sami.

"Ones my sister sam told me to get owt of har room!"

I love how he expresses himself!

Just a Few More Days!

2010-12-21T07:34:00.002-05:00

I just realized that Christmas is in a few days and I need to finish a few things. I have no idea when I will do it!

Today we have dentist appointments, a lunch at our Realtor's office, dance class, just to name a few.

I think I will play Bad Mom and not let Katie know she has dance today. It is the only time I can see heading to the dreaded mall to get my MIL's gift. There is no way I am going to try to go a night this week. I am sure it will be packed.

I am hoping I can get Katie to sit with Santa while there too. However, she is afraid.
I asked her "How will Santa know what you want for Christmas?"
Her response was a typical sassy one....
"I will just wait in line and then yell it to him from there!"
I have a feeling seeing Santa won't go over to well.

OK, OK.......I Really Will Be Back!

2010-12-19T19:39:00.006-05:00

I have decided I really would like to get back into blogging. There are so many things I want to share or even things I want to post about my kids so I will remember! Plus, my oldest, Sami, told me last week I need to start doing it again! I took it as a sign!

So........it will begin here!

We, like everyone else, are getting ready for the holidays! It is such a busy time.

Katie, 4, is soooooo excited this year! She truly can't contain herself! She is now going to a Christian Montessori preschool. She is learning the true meaning of Christmas. We are not "church goers" but this is making me want to be. They excitement and love in her eyes when she talks about Baby Jesus is amazing.

Last week her school went to a local place called the "Fatima Shrine". Every year they have tons of lights and you learn about Jesus and Christmas when you walk around. The families walked around on our own then went into the the Hall and had a little skit, sang songs and had birthday cake for Baby Jesus. Katie just loved it.

Kate and her best friend Kate.

Tommy took the camera and took pictures.

He then tried to copy his big sisters by holding the camera up to take a picture if he and Katie.

Part of the family....we are missing the big kids!

Fenway Park, Red Sox and Yankees.....nothing beats it!

2010-04-11T18:35:00.005-04:00

I have some pretty cool friends! The one that topped the list last week was T. She scored 4 tickets to a Red Sox vs Yankees game on the warmest night in April weather history in Boston, 90 degrees!

If you live under a rock, you may not know that the Red Sox and Yankees have the biggest rivalry. Me, I love my Red Sox. (although Yankees have some cuties) I am a Bostonian so the Red Sox is my fav.

We sat in the Bleachers out in Right Field.

I have been to many games, but never sat in the bleachers. Let me tell you, this is a different world than anywhere else in Fenway Park. The beer is flowing, the hot dogs are going and so is the language and "friendly" people.
2 examples:

Girl is my friend. Man she is sitting next to....is not. He was very nice, but talked her ear off most of the night. Since we were sitting next to each other it was my duty to save her often.

Example 2:

See Man in green shirt? Again....not with us.......

He really liked my friend Julie. He flirted and joked with all her all night. After we scared the family away in front of us, he seemed to creep down in front of her.

We did put him to good use and made him take a group shot of us.
However, his first try he "somehow" turned my self timer on, was confused and handed the camera back to me....it went off and this is what we got.....maybe he wanted Jule to have it as a souvenir.

He did manage to get one though!

It could not have been a better night! It was probably one of the funniest games I have been to. THANKS T!!!

SHE DID IT!

2010-04-06T12:21:00.003-04:00

My Sami girl got her license a few days ago!

I feel so old. How can I be old enough to have a 16 year old who drives?

I am so proud of her. She is already asking to use the car. It is nice though to have her run errands for me.

Tommy is excited and wants her to drive him to the park. I am sure she will do anything if she can drive!

Easter 2010

2010-04-05T07:34:00.005-04:00

It was Easter Week in our house! Three egg hunts..........

#1 for the Moms Club

#2 at a friends. She had 20 kids and 500 eggs!

Lastly, Ours on Easter Day!

I had family at my house and my best friend and her family. What a day! 75 degrees! Living in New England you never know what the weather will be like. Last year it was cold and we had a fire going in the wood stove! This year it was shorts and sandals!

I finally was able to get a family picture. It isn't very often that we are all together!

My big girls wanted a picture with me. They are never to big to sit on my lap!

The little kids needed in on the picture too!

Katie Goes to Kindergarten

2009-12-19T07:49:00.003-05:00

Tommy had a Gingerbread party at school. The parents went in to help. I brought Katie with me.
When I had to help with the volunteers (my job of being Room Mom) the teacher offered to let Katie stay in the class. She was THRILLED!!!

Of course Tommy loved showing off his little sister in class.

When it was time to make the houses the kids had a blast. Katie made one too!

What an easy way to make the houses! They had small milk cartons and used frosting to "glue" graham crackers to. They used upside down ice cream cones for trees. They all loved decorating them.

When it was time to go back to class, Katie was allowed to go with them so I could clean up. She was even the line leader for the girls!

She loved telling everyone the rest of the dy how she went to Kindergarten!

I Got Picked Up...By a Girl!

2009-11-29T09:46:00.004-05:00

Yes I did!

I went out with my good friend Friday night to see a local band at a bar in my hometown. While she was in the ladies room a woman came over and started chatting it up with me. She was very friendly and nice. She was asking me if I was from the area. I had said I grew up in the town but have not lived here in years. She says "REALLY! I am looking for a girlfriend for my husband and me and you are adorable!"

Umm...what???

Yup.......

She went on to say her and her husband were married 26 years and that was the secret to their happy marriage.

Thanks, but no thanks.

I took it as a compliment that she was trying to pick me up.....in a weird sorta way of taking a compliment.

They sat next to us the rest of the night. It turns out that their best friends are my mom's neighbors!

Hey, it isn't often that I get picked up by the same sex! It isn't my style, but I was honored that a chick thought that I was cute enough for her lifestyle!

Oye!

Our Thanksgiving!

2009-11-28T15:38:00.003-05:00

We had a great day!

We started the day with Hubby and I running a 5K. The Wobble Gobble they called it. It was a great family event. They had babysitting for the kids and then a kids race after.
My goal was to do it in under 30 minutes. Which I had never done. I DID IT! 26:27!
Chris was gracious and crossed the finish line with me. He totally would have smoked me. Although, the race results said I beat him by 1 second! GO TEAM MOM!

Tommy took our picture after it!

They loved the kids race. Here is Katie walking to the start line.

Then Tommy getting ready!

They got little plastic medals!

They have learned the importance of stretching after a big race!

We got home and got ready for company. We just had one family over and our single friend Roland. Tommy made place cards for everyone that included their name and an Indian symbol. His was lightening.

The kids couldn't wait for dessert. Tommy was so excited he forgot to take his bike helmet off!

And here we are at the end of the day!

Good run, good food and good friends!

Who Needs Dolls?

2009-11-25T08:52:00.003-05:00

When you can just push your pumpkin in the stroller!

Yes, that is what Katie is doing!

She wouldn't let us carve it.

She named it Aidan.

She is pushing it around in her baby stroller!

Why........

2009-11-24T13:27:00.004-05:00

Things I ponder......

Why can't people admit when they are wrong?

Why can't people who are adults, act like one?

Why can't people who have children love their children for who they are? The good, the bad and the ugly. Life is to short to shove them aside.

Why can't people hit spell check when they email you? It really makes you look that much less of a person when you are trying to make a point, but can't spell a simple word, or many for that matter.

Why do kids decide they need you the very second you are on the phone or in the bathroom?

Why when you have no kids around and are excited to sleep in the next morning you can't? You wake up the same time your kids usually wake up?

Why when your house is a mess someone decides to stop by unannounced?

Anyone else want to add to my list??????

Tommy

2009-11-21T14:54:00.003-05:00

My poor Tommy has not been feeling well lately. He has just not been himself. I just had the mommy intuition. He has been chronic tired and just not right.

I took him to the DR and they ran a whole blood work up. They noticed a canker on his tongue. He had been complaining about it. 2 days later (and terrible night sleep) he waked up and his tongue is covered in white spots. I knew right away it was Thrush. Which is a side effect from his asthma meds he takes daily. The poor kid.

I ended up taking him right in to see the DR again Friday morning. She did tell us all his blood work was fine too. One thing was slightly elevated. She is treating him for a sinus infection.

It is amazing after just several doses how kids bounce back. I feel like I got my Buddy back!

Teenagers.....grrrrrr

2009-11-21T14:52:00.002-05:00

I was giving Sam a ride to work this morning. It was early so I just grabbed my coffee and was still in my PJ's. No one was going to see me.

Right ?

Wrong.

She wanted to drive. She says to me...."you are wearing that?!?!"

Umm....ya.......

"Well, what happens when you get out of the car to change spots with me?"

I drove......she wasn't risking it!

Tommy's Pledge of Allegiance

2009-11-10T15:28:00.003-05:00

Tommy was reciting the Pledge of Allegiance for me. He of course learned in Kindergarten. They do it every morning with the principal reciting it over the loud speaker.

After reciting it to me he keeps going:

".....with Liberty and Justice for all. If you have any notes please give them to your teacher. Have a great day here at Center School"

They must say the same thing every morning!

Vacation- ADULTS ONLY!

2009-11-04T07:38:00.002-05:00

Tomorrow Chris and I are headed to Miami, South Beach. Our anniversary was yesterday.

I can't wait!

4 days with no kids!

Chris planned the whole thing. I told him I wanted to part of it...but had a few criterias that needed to be met.
1. Warm
2. Beach

He also was responsible for finding someone to stay at out house with the kids.

He did it.

We are up and out at 5AM tomorrow and will be back Sunday night.

Miami, here we come!

Ummm Ya.....He Did That!

2009-11-03T07:47:00.002-05:00

Tommy gave his Dad the middle finger this morning.

WOOPS!

He was mad about something and then looked at Dad and put it up!

YIKES!

I asked him how he learned it and he said when we were away he stuck it up and was told it meant a bad word. So when he was mad at Dad he decided to put it up.

Trust me.....it won't happen again!

Halloween Fun!

2009-11-02T08:48:00.005-05:00

We had a great time on Halloween! I hosted our friends this year for pizza and drinks before heading out. We have all trick or treated together for about 5 years.

This is the clan of kids!

Invasion of Star Wars!

The princesses!

Katie was pooped by the end!

The adults had fun too! We had Carmel Apple Martini's for the walk......

Got tired and got a ride......

When all was done everyone came back to my house for a while longer. It was a great time!

Now, to just not eat the kids candy! I have lost 15 lbs in 2 months.....STAY AWAY FROM THE CANDY!!!!

Halloween Parade!

2009-10-30T19:24:00.003-04:00

Tommy had a costume parade at school today. It was so cute seeing all the kids.

Katie wore her outfit too. She was not going to be out done by a bunch of 5 year olds!

I love this video of Tommy. He was so proud to be doing it!

Wow....Long Time...No See!

2009-10-30T08:06:00.005-04:00

Has it really been this long since I blogged? Wow!

Life is so crazy and this wasn't my top priority. Guess I need to change that! I promise to not go that long again!

Life is good. Kids are happy.

We celebrated Tommy's 6th Birthday. I know....I am bad...he never got his own post that day.

Mommy had a girls weekend in Boston. My girlies from out of state (even Canada!) came for a visit a few weeks ago. We had fun....even to much fun! What happens on Girls Weekend....stays with Girls Weekend!

We have been Apple picking

We have been enjoying nice weather

We have had fun playing in the leaves!

We have had tantrums
They even tried sledding one day.....with no snow!

I will try not to wait so long next time!

When to Stop Undressing in Front of Your Son

2009-10-06T19:29:00.002-04:00

When he says

"Mom, why are your boobs so big and long?"

Yup.....that did it for me!

Another 5K!

2009-10-05T07:23:00.004-04:00

This weekend I participated in the Good Samaritans Run for Someone Else's Life 5K. It was in memory of my high school best friend, Jodi. She took her own life July 10, 2006.

Jodi's sister has been raising $ for the Good Samaritans for several years now. She has "Team Jodi Ann" and I was THRILLED when she asked me to run in it!

I have only two pictures. I got them from the website. I had no camera because it was raining.
This is our team! I am in the yellow hat with Chris next to me.

And here we are running!

Chris ran with me. He helped me cross the finish line in 30:41! My goal was to do it in 30 minutes. It was not a "chipped" race. Just a timer they had. I think I actually did it because:
A. It took me a minute to get over the start line (I forgot to start my own timer! Damn it!)
B. If I didn't have to dodge raindrops, puddles and mud, I would have been there!
So, in my own mind, I did it! =)

I started the race with Jodi's mom. It was such an honor. She was so good to me in my high school days. I actually lived with them for several months in my high school years.

When I crossed the finish line I lost it.
One, because I did it with out stopping. (I asked Chris to walk for 15 seconds and he said NO WAY, so I kept running)
Two, because it made me feel so good I did it with Jodi watching over me. Seriously, even though I was so out of breath and it was pouring rain, I was so happy to be there.

Jodi and I got in a lot of trouble in high school. I know my mom and kids are reading this, so I will not put it all down. I will just say that we were typical teenagers who liked to have fun. I think that is what makes me the mom I am today, to two teenage daughters. It is hard to get away with things that I know I have done. It also makes it easier to talk to them.

I just want to thank Kim and her family for inviting me to participate. It made my running all worth wild.

Sam and her Permit!

2009-09-28T14:17:00.002-04:00

SHE DID IT!

Sami got her Learners Permit to drive. I am so proud of her!

We waited at the RMV for about an hour. Off she went for the test!

When she got out she wanted to drive home. I told her I would drive through town and then she could drive the back roads from there.

I am not sure how "cool" it is to drive a mini van....but she got to drive!

Getting ready to pull out!

Off she went!

I have to say, I was VERY surprised at how well she did. It must have been all that parking lot practice she did with her dad.
When we got home I had errands to run so of course.....she wanted to drive!

Watch out world......she is on the road!

Tommy's Favorite Part of School

2009-09-25T07:52:00.001-04:00

When asking Tommy what he loved best this week about school.....this was his answer....

DISMISSAL!

HaHaHa that made me laugh!

When Dad Likes to Show off!

2009-09-24T07:36:00.002-04:00

Isn't it always the case?

Dad's are always cooler than Mom.

They do things Mom wouldn't normally do.

Like park the Jeep in the front yard like this!

My New Love

2009-09-23T12:41:00.003-04:00

My new Keurig coffee maker.

Oh how I love thee.........

Happy Birthday to My Casey!

2009-09-22T08:08:00.007-04:00

Dear Casey,

Happy 14th Birthday!

You have made me so proud this past year! You have overcome so much!
You grow stronger everyday!

I love how you are such a sports girl! I know you didn't get that from me! I will give that credit to your dad! Maybe your looks from me????

You are a wonderful sister

I love your sillyness

And you were just so darn cute when you were little! (I had to throw this on in!)

I love being your mom. Even though you give me a run for my money sometimes!

I also loved that when I asked you what you wanted for your birthday dinner you said Steak, asparagus and grilled veggies! I thought it was going to be a pizza night!

I love you so much! Do not ever forget it! Even when we fight or don't agree, it doesn't mean that my love for you is any different!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!

Love,
Mom

Family Fun Day at Battleship Cove!

2009-09-21T07:22:00.007-04:00

Sunday we took the little kids to Battleship Cove. It is a huge Navel Ship exhibit.
You can get on all the boats and see it all. It was really neat.

My Dad was on a Destroyer while in the Navy. It was really cool to go on one and see how he spent 4 years of his life.

The stairs in the ships were very steep.
Katie, at one point, went down them without up........she fell from top to bottom! Poor kid has a welt on the back of her head.
She is one tough cookie....she cried for less than 10 min with Dad comforting her and moved on!
Tommy thought is was so awesome to be able to sit in the seats

Lay on the beds

and see Torpedos!

In the exhibits they tried to show real life. This is the kitchen.......they had MOLDY DONUTS!!! You would think they would use fake food!

And here is the washer and dryer!!! Ummmm ya.........I would not be happy having to do laundry here.....

The huge cannons were a highlight!

As was the anchor!
We ended the day on a carousel that was nearby!

Look how Katie is looking at her Daddy!

Biking the Cape Cod Canal!

2009-09-19T14:19:00.006-04:00

Last weekend we took 3 out of the 4 kids down to the Cape Cod Canal to bike the bike path. One end to the other is 7 miles.
To my amazement we did it!

I knew Casey, my athletic kid, would do it. Never did I think my 5 year old would!

We went to one side and back. That meant we all biked 14 miles that day!!!

We did stop at the end of the first 1/2 to walk on the rocks. We needed some time off those bikes after being on for 7 miles!

Plus, Tommy found a spider web to pee on!

We watched the fisherman. We watch one catch a 32" fish and then.......stab it...gross

We climbed back on and headed back.....another 7 miles!

Katie had it easy on the back of Dad's bike. She liked playing games with Casey. They kept trying to hold hands!

Never did I think we could bike 14 miles! What an accomplishment!

They were tired though!

Today's Lesson.....

2009-09-18T08:15:00.002-04:00

Do not stick your finger in a Kaleidoscope, especially when it is a party favor and small.

Reason......you get your finger stuck!

Band Aids make it all better.

First Day of Preschool!

2009-09-17T13:07:00.004-04:00

Katie had her first day of preschool this week. It went FAR better than Tommy's first day!

She couldn't wait! She kept saying "Only big kids go to school, not babies"

She was excited to pick out her clothes.

She also wore a special piece of jewelery.
My dad, her "Papa" gave her a necklace for her birthday. It is a heart. One side says "Katie" and the other side says "Papa"

She couldn't wait to put her backpack on, which seemed so big!

While Tommy waited for the bus, he was offering her some advice since he went to the same preschool for 2 years. You know.....he is a pro!

When we got there, she walked right in like she owned the place!

She hung up her backpack
And found a friend!
I had to say goodbye 4 times before she acknowledged me!!!

Busy Busy Busy

2009-09-15T07:34:00.003-04:00

Sorry I have been MIA.....

I got an email from my cousin (thanks Aimee) and I knew I needed to get my but in gear!

Life has been so busy getting everyone back to school.

Tommy

He is NOT adjusting to Kindergarten very well.

He has had issues getting on the bus. Last week was torture. He cried almost everyday before the bus came. It has not been fun. He is one of the last stops and there aren't many seats for him. I have taken to bribery. If he gets on the bus like a big boy all this week, he gets the new Bionicle he wants.

He said he hated school.
He said he wished they never invented school.
He said he doesn't like it because he doesn't like being quiet and having to raise his hand.

I never had this with Sam and Casey! They LOVED school! They climbed right on that bus and never looked back!

Casey

She has made it on to the 8th grade soccer team! This is the first school sport she is playing for. It is very exciting! For a week they had try outs and about 8 or so girls got cut.

I am so proud of her! Today is their first game. I know she will rock it out there! She is one fast girl! She is playing Center Forward!

They were having a "Psych Up" at school. They wear wearing their uniforms all day.

Sami

My oldest child has landed her first job! Man, that makes me feel old! She just got a job as a cashier at a local grocery store. She has trained for about a week and last night she was on a "live" register.

I was so proud of her getting this. What a huge responsibility! She interviewed and has the responsibility of getting her schedule and being there. On top of making sure her school work is done and grades stay up.

Welcome to the world of being a taxpayer!

Kate

Today she starts preschool. You know I will be showing all those pictures!

So this is why I have been MIA.....I can't keep up with my life!

School Daze........

2009-09-05T07:00:00.006-04:00

My girls are headed off! Sam is entering 10th Grade! Casey 8th. How do I have girls that old? Especially when I am only 25?

Aren't they gorgeous? I know I am bias because I am their mom....but really.....the are gorgeous!

Then they were off to get the bus....at 7 AM! Of course me being me....was there with the camera. I did promise I wouldn't follow them down to take bus pictures....but at least I tried to get them walking.
Sam was not happy with me! She was telling me to go away. I am not sure if it was the camera or me standing there in my PJ's.

Tommy, on the other hand, was not so thrilled. The night before he started saying to us "Mom, I am more nervous than you think I am!"

That morning he woke up. The first words out of his mouth were "I am scared"
Thank god Sam was there to comfort him. She gave him a big ole pep talk.
We went outside to wait. He was scared....I just wanted to get a good picture. It wasn't working.

Then he sees the bus coming. I know it is do or die! I thought I would be putting him on bawling!
NOPE!!! He got excited!!!! I got my happy picture!

Katie was there for support!
He waited......

And climbed right on!!!

And off he went!!

Piggy Paint!

2009-09-02T19:41:00.003-04:00

How cute are these???

My Bloggy Buddy DiPaola Momma sent my Katie Mae (and me!) some cool nail polish called "Piggy Paint" to try out!

It is really neat! It goes on nice and smooth! I noticed that I didn't need to keep dipping the brush in the bottle to get more.

This neat stuff is made for little fingers! It is Non Toxic, odorless, Hypoallergenic, and fun! That is great for those girls who like to suck on their fingers!

They have the best names for their colors! Who could resist names like Ice Cream Dream, Dragon Tears and Clouds of Candy! Katie's toes are sporting the color "Forever Fancy"

Even better......if you order before September 30 and use code "Nugget15" you will get 15% off your order!

Go check it out! You won't be dissapointed!

The Passing of Dorothy the Fish

2009-09-01T20:50:00.002-04:00

I am sad to report the Dorothy the Fish is no longer with us.

She lived a short life in our house. Only lasted about 48 hours.

I think she died of "Shaken Fish Syndrome" Her owner....AKA...Katie Mae.....liked to carry her around in the cup we got her in. As much as we told her not to, I would turn around and she would be carrying her.

When I woke up Sunday morning she was swimming a little lopsided.

I filled a small fish bowl with water and placed her in it.

She went belly up.

Although we do have a fish graveyard in the back of our house, Daddy got to her first and she became one with the toilet bowl.

Here is a few pictures in memory of her.

R.I.P DOROTHY

Fruits (or veggies) of my Labor!

2009-08-31T08:28:00.002-04:00

This morning I am making homemade pasta sauce! All from the veggies and herbs from my garden!

YUM!

It is all simmering now and spells DELICIOUS!

Just thought I would share!

Martha's Vineyard......again.

2009-08-30T11:21:00.009-04:00

I am super lucky to have the in laws that I do. They have a house in Martha's Vineyard that we can go to anytime.

Chris went away for part of the weekend with his dad and brother. I took the kids to the Vineyard with my mother in law.

Yes, it was the week that Obama was there. He was staying not far from our house in Chilmark. There were no sightings of him, but I did see some cute Secret Service men!

There are always famous people, politicians and such around the island. Casey met Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick. The poor guy was hounded by people (including us) They had to shut the street down!

We tried to go to Lucy Vincent Beach, but Hurricane Dan was nearing and it was windy and cold. That didn't stop Casey from trying to Boogie Board!

After about 3 min she was done!

Tommy wouldn't go near the water. He decided to make a stone wall. Because every beach needs one!

Also, poor Grammy had a seagull poop on her and her lunch! I told her it was good luck.

Me and my big girls!

We went to a neat new place called Waters of the World in Oak Bluffs. It recently opened up. You can go in and see and touch some sea life. The little ones enjoyed it.

They had an alligator, horseshoe crabs, sharks, turtles and much more!

But their favorite part was when the gave them their own fish to take home.
Katie named hers Dorthy and Tommy has Chris (like his dad!)

This video cracks me up! The sting ray LOVED Casey petting it!

At the end of the weekend, Sam made us all dinner! A special pasta sauce, pasta and garlic bread! YUM!

Family Fun Day!

2009-08-24T08:36:00.007-04:00

This weekend was Family Fun Day....minus the teenagers.

Chris owns a little tiny boat that goes about 5 MPH. Hey...it was a step up from the canoe he had!
The kids love helping out. They were helping Daddy push out from the boat ramp.
Everyone was happy......

We stopped the dam and had lunch
And peed......
We went fishing........

Katie caught the only fish!
She named it Dorothy.

We put Dorothy back in the water to see her Momma.

Then Tommy decided to spray sunscreen in his eyes! Yes, it was by accident.

But that was the end of the day. He was all done being out on the water. We had been out for 2 hours. I was done at that point too!

It was a fun day!

Overheard in the bathroom

2009-08-24T08:29:00.001-04:00

This was was overheard with my 3 & 5 year old the other day.

Tommy: "Katie, want to see if your private looks like my private?""

Katie: "Sure!"

**before I could run in and stop it**

Tommy: "Katie, yours looks like a butt and mine looks like a hose!"

They both started laughing! (as well as me!)

Do you know the answer??????

2009-08-21T07:49:00.002-04:00

Tommy, with his inquisitive mind, asked me this last night........

"Do Mermaids have vaginas?"

Well......do they??????

Leave it to my good friends Caron to find the answer!
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mermaid_problem

Sami's New Dog and Purse!

2009-08-20T16:08:00.002-04:00

WORDLESS WEDNESDAY

2009-08-19T07:48:00.003-04:00

Witnesss

2009-08-18T10:00:00.002-04:00

Last night I was taking the girls out and witnessed a motorcycle accident. A woman changed lanes without seeing the motorcycle and he ran into her car and flew off. We were right next to her car when it happened. All we heard was the crashing sound and saw all the pieces flying!

I slammed my car in park and ran over to him. I was the first one to get there. I did not know what I was going to find. He was rolling around on the grass moaning. I was trying to calm him down and told him not to move as I called 911.

Calling 911 from your cell takes you to the State Police. I forgot that! I was just saying "I am on the on ramps of 495!" Then I realized I needed more detail!

The poor man's boot had come off and his heel was just hanging there. I have never seen anything like it. Thank god for helmet laws in Massachusetts! He had a full helmet, not like the ones that just fit on top of your head. I think he may have hit the pole. He was laying right next to it.

Thank god there was a nurse who had stopped to help. She was asking him questions and knew he had a compound fracture. She stayed with him until help came.

My 2 girls (16 & 13) came running over when I told them to get back to the car. I did not want them to see his leg and foot.

I think that may have been the worst of his injuries. He was alert, knew where he was. He was grabbing his cigarettes to smoke one!

There were so many people around. I knew he was going to be ok with the nurse and others there. I ended up leaving as the police were about there. I did not want my girls to see it all. They were so shaken up. I feel guilty now for not staying. But what more could I do? I did call the police and spoke to them. They took my name and # in case they needed me.

I hope this morning he is ok!

1 Year of Blogging!

2009-08-17T09:01:00.003-04:00

Wow! It has been 1 year since I started Blogging!

What a year it has been.

I love being able to go back and see what has gone on in my crazy world.

I have the WORST memory ever (my hubby even makes fun of me!) so this is a great way for me to see all the fun, sad, happy, boring, silly moments in my life!

Thank you all for sticking with me and reading!

Sweet 16

2009-08-14T09:26:00.005-04:00

Sami,

Happy Birthday to you! I can't beleive you are 16 years old! Soon you will be getting your drivers permit!

You have been such a joy in my life. Although you give me gray hairs sometimes, it isn't often.
You are such a sweet girl with a huge heart. You are also very responsible. I love being able to trust you.

I love how I can always count on you to help with the younger kids. When I ask you to watch them you rarely turn your nose up. You are so good with them. You can see how much they love you. Katie always love to snuggle with you or just be with you in your room.

Although you and Casey do not get along often, I still love the fact that she can talk to you when she is having trouble. That is what big sisters do!

Even though you do not agree with me at times or don't like what I have asked you to do, you do not hold a grudge. You still love me (even though you are mad at me) and move on. I love that.

Thank you for being you! It is such a pleasure being your mom. I hope you have a wonderful birthday!

Love,
Mom

SUMMER FUN!

2009-08-13T09:08:00.005-04:00

Kate's Motto

2009-08-10T08:17:00.002-04:00

I think I am going to follow what Katie said to Dad and I this morning.

"Smiling makes you happy!"

She is right! I need to remember that today!

The "Not Me" Person

2009-08-06T18:39:00.003-04:00

Yes folks, I have the "Not Me" person in my home.

I did not invite him/her.

I do not know where he/she came from.

I *think* he/she knows they are not welcome here.

Does he/she know they are wearing thin on my patience?

Does he/she know that they are just getting the one who didn't do it in trouble?

Let me tell you a few thing "Not Me" has done.

This "person" keeps taking things that do not belong to them.

He/she has "borrowed" things that do not belong to them. Surprisingly I find it in somebody's room. But that child has not used it. Hmmmmmm

It has eaten things not belonging to them without asking.

It has left dirty dishes in the sink. This is against family rules. Put your dishes right in the dishwasher.

It has caused me to blame my kids for eating in the basement TV room.

They do not clean up after themselves.

They have used my iPod without asking.

It is JUST PLAIN RUDE!!!

I think it has followed me from my childhood home. It is strange. It left me when I left home and didn't return into my life until I had teenagers.

Any suggestions on how to make him/her leave?

Cool Back to School Giveaway!

2009-08-05T11:55:00.004-04:00

If you have a boy going back to school I have a neat giveaway for you!

Go visit my friend, John Deere Mom. She is giving away 3 John Deere Back packs!
Check out the rest of her blog while you are there. She lives in a gorgeous area and has some phenomenal pictures!

My Husband Cheating???

2009-07-30T17:19:00.000-04:00

Apparently there is talk around town how my husband was on his motorcycle with a "young lady who was not his wife"

They just don't realize it was our 16 year old daughter!

Ahhhhh....the life in a small town!

Name Changes!

2009-07-30T09:56:00.000-04:00

Tommy announced to us last night that his new name is Scott.

That is what he wants us to call him.

He says he always likes that name and wishes we named him that.

When he decided on the name change, we were at the playground. I over heard him telling other kids that it was his name.

The other funny part? He told us he renamed Katie to "Tortilla"

Yes, so now I have Scott and Tortilla"

Love and Death

2009-07-29T20:34:00.000-04:00

Tommy started off by saying the sweetest thing...
"Mom, I am in love with a girl..You!"

Sweet right?

That is until his next line.

" When I am an old man, you will be dead! Right?"

Aaaaaa....what a sweet 5 year old!

Did I Say Torture?

2009-07-29T08:59:00.000-04:00

Ok,ok. It wasn't that bad!

I know yesterday I said I was being tortured. It turned out to be fun.

The little kids had a great time in the amusement park. The other side was a water park, they didn't care for that.

The big girls were on their own with friends. They had a blast.

Later in the day we (all 15 of us!)came together and the adult got to go on the big rides. Roller coasters and all. That is what made it better.

Maybe I was just jealous that Katie and Tommy were having all the fun and I had to watch.

We stayed there until about 7:30.

We have a few days left. We leave here Saturday.

Being tortured

2009-07-28T13:17:00.000-04:00

As I write this I am sitting in 88 degree weather, hot sun, being tortured at an amusement park.

The big girls are off on their own with friends. Chris and I are watching the little ones go on rides.

We are on vacation in Maine. The week has been great. Today....not so much.

The things we do for our kids!

My Souvenir !

2009-07-24T15:00:00.005-04:00

So I go to Niagara Falls with the girls and came with a..............

TATTOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! (sorry mom! I know you are reading this in horror!)

Yes, I did it. I am 35 and this age has hit me hard. So I got a tattoo.

I have wanted one for about a year. I knew what I wanted. A Dragonfly (which I love!) with each wing a kids birth month color.

I happened to mention to them that I wanted one. They in turn jumped all over it. I wan't leaving NF without out.

While we were at the mall we looked in the phone book to see if there were any around. There happened to be one down the street. I figured we would drive by and see if it looked ok.

It was. So we went in!

I wanted to see if it was clean and see the artwork they had done.
We walked in and were impressed. It was very clean and the art work looked great.

The owner, Dave, said if I wanted he could do it in a few minutes.

AHHHHHHHHHH!

It was going to be real!

I sat down and he explained everything and showed me how sterile everything was. He changed his gloves so many times while doing it. Everytime he touched something that was not me or the tools, he changed them.

This is Dave explaining it all to me.

It really helps having friends there! I think I broke Jess's fingers! She held my hand the entire time!

It also helps to have friends watching and getting their approval!

It REALLY helps when one of his friends come in and offers you maraschino cherries that have been soaking in Tequila for 14 months! YUM!

Oh the pain!
But the end result was worth it!!

Miss Katie

2009-07-23T17:22:00.002-04:00

Tommy: MOM!!! Katie called Casey a Poop!

Me: Katie.......you do not call anyone a Poop!

Katie: But Mom....I didn't! I called her a POOPIE!!!

Yes, that is different.........

Niagara Falls

2009-07-21T12:55:00.012-04:00

This past weekend I went on a girls weekend to Niagara Falls. It was such a blast!

I met my 3 friends there who I have been friends with for 3 years. We have kids the same age. It was sort of a "middle point" for us. Although, I had the longest drive. But it was well worth it!

I got there late Thursday. We had dinner at a Mexican restaurant and hung out.

Friday was rain....what are a group of girls to do??? SHOP!!! There was an Outlet mall, so we spent the day there.
They had some really cool circus like people walking around.

Saturday was our sight seeing day. Off to the Falls we went! I cannot explain how gorgeous they are. Seriously, breathtaking.

While there, we went on the Maid of the Mist boat. It gets us right up close to the Falls!

See those boats down there...............

And the boat close to the Falls.............
YUP.....that is what we were headed on!

Before getting on you need to get on an elevator to bring you down!
This picture is crooked, but it shows it!
They then give you rain ponchos to stay dry!
Here are the Falls up close!

We went back to the hotel to change and get ready for dinner at the Hard Rock. It was fun. Music, food and drinks!
We did have 2 nights out hanging out at a local bar. We had a great time. For some odd reason I attracted the old men or the ones who were drunk.
This man tried to tell me that he lost a bunch of money at the casino, but moments later told me how they wouldn't let him in the casino because he had a dirty ID...HUH?!?!?!

Sunday we were all up and out early for the long ride home. I had 6.5 hours.....but it was well worth it!

Wait until I tell you what my souvenir was!!!! I will post that tomorrow!

I am Featured on a Travel Blog!

2009-07-15T19:15:00.002-04:00

My first time being featured somewhere!

First, welcome to my visitors coming over from Traveling the Blogosphere! I am super excited to have my Martha's Vineyard post featured over there.

To my regulars, go check out Katie Lane's Blog. You will see some cool places to travel too!

I Crown Myself........

2009-07-15T09:18:00.004-04:00

Worst Mom of the Day!

Yup, I get it today! Poor Katie.

We were making pancakes. It was a great "mom and kid moment."

Until........

I touched Katie with the metal spatula!

The one that I just used to take the pancakes off the stove.

The one that was super hot!

It caused her to screech.......

It caused her to bleed......

I am awful!

Ramblings of being boring

2009-07-14T08:11:00.002-04:00

My blog is boring lately.

I don't have much to say.

We have been so busy with summer.

All kids home is torture! I can't wait for September.

I did sign up for another 5K in September. That should motivate me more to run.

Maybe I will post some pictures later of our summer.

Martha's Vineyard Vacation

2009-07-10T08:40:00.009-04:00

We had a wonderful time in Martha's Vineyard.

We are very lucky that my in laws have a house there.

The weather was cooperating. Massachusetts has seen so much rain the past few months. Really, it rains almost every day lately. We lucked out and had sunshine most of the time. When it did rain, it went right over us pretty quickly.

Here we are on our way via the Ferry. Or as Katie called it "The Fairy Boat". She thought we were going to see lots of Fairies on it!

You always have to go on the Flying Horses Carousel and try to catch the Brass Ring for a free ride! We went daily. This was the first year Katie could do it herself!

Also, Ice Cream is a MUST!

Our friend Donna came with us. She has not been in 30 years! She had a great time with us. (I think!) This is Donna, my mother in law and me at Menemsha Beach

We were sad to see her go. The kids really enjoyed her. Tommy was yelling to the ferry "BYE DONNA!"
We shopped...a lot! We found these statues in Edgertown. Tommy tried to pose like them all! It was so funny!

Whether is was sunny or not, we hit all the beautiful beaches there!

Tommy got in the "photo action" and took this of Katie and I!
I love it!

On Friday, Dad came. Can you tell they were happy to see him?

I think Katie was Blogging here on her Batman Computer.
We left a few days early. I was ready to be back home and Chris was leaving that night also. It was just easier

Camp Letters

2009-07-07T15:22:00.005-04:00

I got a few letters from the girls today from camp.

The content of the letters fits their personality so well.

Casey sends one letter. It looks like she was just doing it to make me happy. She says "send me socks, mine are dirty!"

Then there is Sam. She send 2 letters. Both detailed. One is detailed by day!

She made me laugh!

She says "We went canoeing with Pat (a super cute life guard)....." *yes, she is my child!*

The other one said "My roommates are nice. Although this girl, Dianna, admitted to us that she was a lesbian. Oh well!"

They both sound like they are having fun, despite the rainy weather they are having. I get to pick them up Friday!

Yes, I do miss them a bit. The time away is good, but I miss them!

VACATION!

2009-07-02T21:42:00.000-04:00

I am away for the week.I am spending the week at my in laws place in Martha's Vineyard.

I have limited access to the internet. My Blackberry only works if I stand in a certain spot and the wind is blowing just right. Really, I can't turn my head or I lose the signal!

Also, I can only get on the internet when my dear father in law is out. I have to unplug his to plug mine in.

So, I will be here occasionally!

Pray for no rain! It has been raining in MA for WEEKS!!! Really!

They Are Off!

2009-06-29T08:01:00.004-04:00

I dropped the big girls off at sleep away camp yesterday!

They are gone for 2 weeks. *hiding excitement*

They have gone to this camp in New Hampshire for several years. This is Sami's 4th summer and Casey's 3rd. It is the same camp I went to in the 6th grade!

They are so excited, as was I!

They go the same 2 weeks every year. Many of their friends go the same weeks also. It is so great, they have met people from around the world and country. They loved going and seeing all of them!

It is a "nature" camp. They will be boating, hiking and lots more. Sam is doing a Community Service project this year with her group.

This is the view out Sami's cabin!

Here we are, happy as clams, before I left!

It Happens In Three's!

2009-06-27T19:00:00.005-04:00

Like the most of the world I was sad to see the passing of 3 stars. Micheal, Farrah and Ed. All of them icons on some way.

MJ's death and music is everywhere! I think it totally overshadowed the others. That was sad.

It also made my son terrified.

Yes, it did.

I put him to bed last night and left the room. 3 minutes later he was screaming for me.

Tommy "Mom, I am scared!"

Me: "Of what?"

Tommy: "Of that Micheal Jackson guy! He died and he is scary How did he die?"

Me: "I am not sure. I think he was sick and his heart didn't work anymore"

Tommy: "Well, I saw him on the news and he looked so scary. He had weird yellow eyes"

The light bulb came on! He saw clips of the Thriller video on TV! Poor Kid!
That video is classic! I remember sitting watching MTV waiting for it to come on. It was like a mini show!

And of course, we all learned how to do the Goul dance. Say you didn't, but I know you all did at some time or another!

I also know you all tried to Moonwalk!

**Note to self.......no more watching MJ documentaries or the news in front of Tommy!**

Rain Rain Go Away!

2009-06-24T11:02:00.002-04:00

Seriously....it has been raining here for a month! Lat weekend we got 1 day or so of sunshine.

I have cabin fever.

My house likes it though! I am cleaning out closets!

I just left Casey's room with a GIANT trash bag filled. Serves he right for not doing it. I asked her to clean it a week ago.

She didn't.

So I did!

I bet she doesn't even notice!

Katie Talk

2009-06-22T08:25:00.005-04:00

Some talks Katie, my 3 year old, has had with me the past few days.

"Momma, when I was a boy last year I liked boy stuff!"

*Watching her big sisters get in the bus*
"Last year I was big to go on the school bus"

While I was getting dressed she said
"Momma, you have no hair like dad, except for your butt!"
**DISCLAIMER.......she was looking at the FRONT of me, not the back. I do not have a hairy butt!**

Got to love the mind of a 3 year old!

My 5K Race!

2009-06-21T10:33:00.010-04:00

I DID IT! I DID IT! *doing happy dance!*

I completed the race with 2 out of my 3 goals checked off.

1. To finish the race. *DONE*

2. To not come in last! (I came in 908th out of 1500!) *DONE*

3. To do it in 30 min or less *NOT DONE*

I ran the race in 33.11 minutes. Not bad for a girl who just started running 3 months ago.

Me and my 2 good friends, Jen and Meg, met before the race.

Yes, that was our Chariot that took us behind us....NOT.

It was amazing to run! There were 1,500 registered runners! What a thrill to stand at the start line and see a sea of people running!

Half way through the course I made it up a hill that I didn't do the week before when we did a trial run of the course. When I got to the top I told my friend to keep going. I was slowing down. In fact, up ahead was a water station and I grabbed a water and had to walk for a few seconds. That is until another friend, who I didn't know was running, came up behind me, tapped me on the back and told me to start running! We ran the last mile together. I am SOOOO grateful to her. If it wasn't for her, I would have stopped more! I was dying (it was very humid out!) and she kept me motivated to keep running. We crossed the finish line together.

I really am proud of myself. I said to myself 3 months ago I was going to do this and I did it!

Here I am just after finishing, hence the messy hair and bright red face!

Happy Fathers Day!

2009-06-21T08:45:00.003-04:00

Happy Dad's Day to all the Dad's in my life!

My husband, Chris. He is a wonderful father! Not only to our 2 kids we have together, but to my 2 daughter's. He treats them like his own and always has. You would NEVER know that the are not biologically his. People are surprised when they find out. He loves and supports all of them.
Thank you for being a wonderful husband and father.

My Dad, Frank. He is a GREAT Papa! He makes the time almost every weekend to see his Grandkids. One week it is mine, the next my brother's and then my sisters. Whoever is available that weekend. He loves spending time with them all. He takes them out to breakfast or lunch. He never comes empty handed either. Whether is is a cookbook for me or something he saw for the kids.

My Step Dad, Manny. A wonderful guy who is not only a 2nd dad to me, but a great Grampa! He is a great guy to bounce ideas or troubles off of. For that, I am grateful.

My Father in Law, Ron. Without you, many things in my life would not be. He is a great supporter to our family and a great Grampy. We love spending time with you at the Vineyard and in Florida! Thank you for everything.

HAPPY FATHERS DAY!

Freaked out!

2009-06-18T13:15:00.001-04:00

OK....I just pulled a tick of of Katie's coochie!

I am freaked.

She probably got it from spending 5 hours at the park. I am so mad at myself for not checking!

We were in Target and she said there was something down there. She had a dress on and I took a quick peek in the isle. She didn't want me to touch. I thought it was some lint.

I get home, she goes pee and I look.

It wasn't lint.

It was a tick. One that has sucked some blood out already.

UGHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Screaming Child in Isle 5!

2009-06-17T20:34:00.003-04:00

Last night was a shopping trip from HELL!

Casey decides to tell me the night before she needs a new bathing suit for a pool party tomorrow. Of course she does!

Chris had a meeting last night.
Of course he does!

Sam and Casey needs stuff for sleepaway camp, so they ALL need to go to Kohls.
Of course they do!

Off we go, me and 4 kids. Mind you, we had just spent 5 hours at the park then went to playgroup, so Katie and Tommy were tired. I knew I was pushing the envelope going, but it needed to be done.

Little did I know Mommy should have taken some serious pills or had a Martini before entering the world of shopping with 4 kids.

Casey picked out 2 bathing suits that were meant for a 20 year old with boobs.
Of course she did!
I put a stop to that and and made her pick something else. She was NOT happy.

In the mean time Katie decides she doesn't like the cart and rips off all the bathing suits at her level and tosses them on the floor, while Tommy yells "She keeps looking at me!"
The poor people trying to shop around me. I got "the look" from several of them.

As we are looking they each spot a character watch. I figure I will let them hold them so they will be quiet.
WRONG IDEA!

While Katie accepts the fact that Mommy isn't buying them, Tommy decides that he NEEDS a Matchbox Car watch. His is broken and he has to have it.
Mind you, he is 5 and can't even tell time yet!

He proceeds to cry and cry. Mommy is NOT giving in.

We race to the cash register with a hysterical 5 year old. I can't get out of there fast enough!

Sam, Casey and Katie decide it will be easier to wait in the car for me. THANKS!

While I am getting rung up, he continues to cry inconsolably. People around me are frightened.

I offer him as a prize to some. No one will take him.
I offer him to moms with teenagers as punishment......no takers.

We finally leave the store to people offering me prayers and hopes of a better night.

He cries the entire way home. To the point he needs his inhaler.

He says to me "MOM! The woman on the loud speaker say "BUY SOMETHING YOU LOVE!" I love that watch and you didn't buy it for me!!"

Yes, because I am the worst mom of the night and I should have listened to the advertisement on the loud speaker!

Happy Birthday Grampa!

2009-06-17T08:31:00.004-04:00

Happy Birthday to my Step Dad, Manny.

He has been in my life for about 20 years. Yes folks, he entered my life right smack in my teenage years. God love him. If you anything about my teenage years, that means A LOT!
But, I won't get into that. **smiling**

He is a wonderful parent and grandfather. He is "Grampa" to all the grandkids.

He is at every birthday, holiday, get together and even Preschool graduation! (see above picture!)

He is a special guy to me and my family.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY GRAMPA!!!

Trial Run

2009-06-15T07:25:00.003-04:00

Yesterday I ran the 5K route with my girlfriends.

I did it! I couldn't beleive it!

The first time in my life I have run 3 or so miles!

We did walk for a short time at one point.

I did want to pass out a several points.

But in the end........I did it!

This was a trial run for the race on Saturday!

Dear Department Store Cashier

2009-06-11T08:42:00.004-04:00

Dear Mall Department Store Cashier,

Tuesday I went to your store, which I normally do not shop at, to purchase a pair of running pants. I have my first 5K next weekend and I wanted to look "somewhat" like a runner and not an amateur. We all know fashion plays some part in running. Right?

Well, I found a pair of pants/capri style pants that I liked. You were having a sale and I thought I could justify it. I passed on a matching top since I just bought several at different store, for MUCH less!

I dragged my 5 and 3 year old in the dressing room. 1/2 way through, my newly potty trained 3 year old informed me she needed to pee. **SIGH** I raced to get my clothes back on and went to pay.

Did I look rushed and annoyed when you tried to make small talk with my son while my daughter cried to pee? You didn't seem to notice. Did I look annoyed when you got flustered with register? You didn't seem to notice.

Today, I went to put on those pants so I can go run/walk/crawl the 5K route. I have been trying to pump myself up all morning. I pull them out of the bag and see the SECURITY TAG STILL ON!!!! Why didn't it set the alarm off when I left the store?!?!

Man, I was so upset.

Seeing your store is 30 minutes away, I tried to take matters into my own hands. I marched to the garage and placed the tag in my husbands Vice.

I did notice the tag said "tampering will break glass and cause ink to leak out, please see sales associate for removal."

I didn't beleive it.

It is true, glass and ink come out. Red ink. Thank god they are black pants and I was smart to put a towel around it! It is all over my hands, but not the clothes.

So please, when you are cashing someone out, PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE remember to take the security tag off! Is it really that tough to remember? Don't you have them on ALL the clothes? So it wasn't anything new to you.

Not So Sincerely,

Angered Shopper with Red Ink Stained Hands.

My Win has Arrived!

2009-06-10T15:12:00.005-04:00

I was away all weekend and came home to a package waiting for me! If you remember, I won the book "I'm Hosting as Fast as I Can" from Dipoala Momma over at Chicken Nuggets of Wisdom. Go check her out, she is funny and you won't be disappointed!

I open the package and out spills so much more! Not only did she send me the book, but she put stuff in for my kids!
She totally rocks! Seriously........ROCKS!
So thank you girl for all the goodies and the note you put in for me!

To my Bloggy Friends....PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE go check her out. She is having a really cool giveaway while she is away on vaca! Tell her I sent you!

My Budding Artist

2009-06-09T17:53:00.002-04:00

Tommy made this picture of a Bionicle named "Gresh".

Is it just me and my sick mind.....or are you laughing too?

I am still here!

2009-06-09T07:07:00.002-04:00

I am here. I have been so busy since I was away this weekend.

I have lots to share! I had a great weekend with old friends and then I came home to my package from DiPaola Momma waiting for me!

So stay tuned for a post. I just need to get my feet back on the ground from my weekend away.

Like Old Times

2009-06-06T11:31:00.000-04:00

This weekend I am blogging remotly!

I am in upstate NY with my childhood friends! Joc is getting married this fall so we are having her wedding shower.

We got here yesterday and had a wonderful sleepover. Her parents, sisters and friends are here. I have not seen her family since I was in high school. I will not say how many years for fear of dating myself!

Today we are going on a wine tasting tour! I am super excited. A new experience for me.

I am sitting back enjoying the friendships with them. It is like we were never apart!

WORDLESS WEDNESDAY

2009-06-03T14:25:00.000-04:00

On my way to a 5K

2009-06-01T08:18:00.004-04:00

As you may know I am running my first 5K at the end of the month. A local one, Sharon Timlin Memorial Race.

When I started running I could not even run the length of my backyard without wanting to stop!

Well, this weekend I ran my first 2 miles without stopping. That is huge for me!

My trick? I ran it on the main road (I have been running in the neighborhood) so I would:
A) Run so I wouldn't get hit by a car
B) Run without stopping because I didn't want anyone to see me stop and think I was a loser!

It worked! I did it!

I have 3 weeks to get that solid 3 miles in. I know I can do it.

The best part? I have realized I love running. I do it with no kids. It is peaceful.

I have also lost some inches on my waist line and fit into some capris I didn't fit in last Spring.

Now that is all the motivation I need!

WAHOO!!!

2009-05-28T14:23:00.003-04:00

OK..now I am screaming like a 13 year old like DiPaola Mommy!

Yes, Tom Bergeron accepted me on FB and sent me a private message. OK, so it wasn't a big message or one of him telling me he loved me.....but still....he sent me a short, but sweet message.

Hi Rebecca!
I hope you enjoy the book!
Best,
Tom

OK....so I friend requested him with a message that I won his book and gave him my blog to check out......Maybe he didn't Google himself and find me.......I am ok with that! I am still hoping he peeked at my blog.

Any hooo......he is now my friend on Facebook!