Friday, September 28, 2007
Sunday, September 23, 2007
First Day of Fall...ALREADY?!
Septemberby Helen Hunt Jackson
The goldenrod is yellow;
The corn is turning brown;
The trees in apple orchards
With fruit are bending down.
The gentian's bluest fringes
Are curling in the sun;
In dusky pods the milkweed
Its hidden silk has spun.
The sedges flaunt their harvest
In every meadow-nook;
And asters by the brookside
Make asters in the brook.
From dewy lanes at morning
The grapes' sweet odors rise;
At noon the roads all flutter
With yellow butterflies.
By all these lovely tokens
September days are here,
With summer's best of weather,
And autumn's best of cheer.
*********************
Well, happy first day of fall to you all. How has your day been? Mine has been a busy weekend, full of action.
Yesterday, we made plans to go pick up a gift for my niece Abby who is turning one on October 1oth. So, we packed up the kids, picked up some Timmy's. Seriously, as soon as we pull out from the drive thru, Carly throws up, and not just a bit...Apple chunks, yogurt and water. yup. On her skirt, the seat, the floor, the mats. You name the place, and there was puke. I have learned from past throw up incidents to be prepared. I handed Carly a gift bag, and she threw the rest up into that. We got the paper towels from the back of the van, along with the sanitized wipes. We got it cleaned up very quickly. Carly wore her underwear, and the skirt went into the back. We headed on our merry way. Now, we are getting a bit behind. We are getting closer to our destination, and Catie yells out a few times "I have to go pee pee, I have to go pee pee!!!!!!!" so, we pull into a Wendy's and Cliff takes here in. We, head out AGAIN. We made it to the place we needed to be. And then, we got home much easier. We rented a couple of videos for kids. We also 'winterized' the yard. Put the table umbrellas away, cleaned up the toys, moved plants around etc. So, that is done now too! We are ready for the change of seasons!
We worked some more on the garage. Our mission was to get the van into the garage this fall. So we worked as a family to get it done. We switched and swapped stuff around, and we purged some more.
Today, well. We stocked up the van with plastic bags, and more paper towel first. Then, we headed out on the first day of fall to get some fall mums in pots to put at the front of our home. And we were successful on our fall mission. They look gorgeous, a burst of fall colours to welcome in the fall. We had the last of the summer freezies from the freezer when we finished up the garage today! The sun was out all day. Crisp and beautiful fall air. We got the rest of the garage DONE!!! Just waiting for a rainy day to pull into the garage and be happy with all of the hard work we put into the organization. It has been a good day. Cliff cleaned out the vac filter, and cleaned up the treadmill for me. I cannot wait to get back on there this week! Yay.
We have one area left in the garage to work on, that would be seating/shoe storage/jacket storage for all of the kids. The closet inside the laundry room will just be for Cliff and I, and the garage wall will be for the six kids. I am hoping for six cubbies, with room for a basket for all of the seasonal gear, two hooks. One for a backpack, and one for a coat. Plus seating. If not that, then we have some good ideas, and hopefully all will work out! I just know with the Fall and Winter season ahead, we need to be prepared. And, too with the new baby arriving in under 10 weeks. We need to have everything done, and in place! No time like the present right!
So, the kids go fresh air, we got fresh air, and an organized garage. It feels so good. Ah, the little things in life that feel so good! Now, to tackle the rest of the house! No, it is not disorganized. Just a bit messy. It will be done quickly! Then, prepare for the school week.
I hope to get out to the Apple Barn with the kids to pick some apples and make some nice fall goodies too. I often think I don't like the fall, but when I look at the blue sky, the colourful leaves on the trees and on the ground. I wonder what I was thinking. I think it is the rain that does it, and knowing that in two weeks today I am another year older. Yup.
Saturday, September 22, 2007
Friday, September 21, 2007
How to be a good wife (1954)
HOW TO BE A GOOD WIFE
Home Economics High School Text Book, 1954
Have dinner ready. Plan ahead, even the night before, to have a delicious meal, on time. This is a way of letting him know that you have been thinking about him and are concerned about his needs. Most men are hungry when they come home and the prospect of a good meal are part of the warm welcome needed.
Prepare yourself. Take 15 minutes to rest so that you'll be refreshed when he arrives. Touch up your makeup, put a ribbon in your hair and be fresh-looking. He has just been with a lot of work-weary people. Be a little gay and a little more interesting. His boring day may need a lift.
Clear away the clutter. Make one last trip through the main part of the home just before your husband arrives, gather up schoolbooks, toys, paper, etc. Then run a dust cloth over the tables. Your husband will feel he has reached a haven of rest and order, and it will give you a lift, too.
Prepare the children. Take a few minutes to wash the children's hands and faces (if they are small), comb their hair, and if necessary change their clothes. They are little treasures and he would like to see them playing the part.
Minimize all noise. At the time of his arrival, eliminate all noise of the washer, dryer, dishwasher, or vacuum. Try to encourage the children to be quiet. Be happy to see him. Greet him with a warm smile and be glad he is home.
Some don'ts: Don't greet him with problems or complaints. Don't complain if he is late for dinner. Count this as minor compared with what he might have gone through that day. Make him comfortable. Have him lean back in a comfortable chair or suggest he lie down in the bedroom. Have a cool or warm drink ready for him. Arrange his pillow and offer to take off his shoes. Speak in a low, soft, soothing and pleasant voice. Allow him to relax and unwind.
Listen to him. You may have a dozen things to tell him, but the moment of his arrival is not the time. Let him talk first.
Make the evening his. Never complain if he does not take you out to dinner or to other places of entertainment. Instead, try to understand his world of strain and pressure, his need to be home and relax.
The Goal: Try to make your home a place of peace and order where your husband can renew himself in body and spirit.
Home Economics High School Text Book, 1954
Have dinner ready. Plan ahead, even the night before, to have a delicious meal, on time. This is a way of letting him know that you have been thinking about him and are concerned about his needs. Most men are hungry when they come home and the prospect of a good meal are part of the warm welcome needed.
Prepare yourself. Take 15 minutes to rest so that you'll be refreshed when he arrives. Touch up your makeup, put a ribbon in your hair and be fresh-looking. He has just been with a lot of work-weary people. Be a little gay and a little more interesting. His boring day may need a lift.
Clear away the clutter. Make one last trip through the main part of the home just before your husband arrives, gather up schoolbooks, toys, paper, etc. Then run a dust cloth over the tables. Your husband will feel he has reached a haven of rest and order, and it will give you a lift, too.
Prepare the children. Take a few minutes to wash the children's hands and faces (if they are small), comb their hair, and if necessary change their clothes. They are little treasures and he would like to see them playing the part.
Minimize all noise. At the time of his arrival, eliminate all noise of the washer, dryer, dishwasher, or vacuum. Try to encourage the children to be quiet. Be happy to see him. Greet him with a warm smile and be glad he is home.
Some don'ts: Don't greet him with problems or complaints. Don't complain if he is late for dinner. Count this as minor compared with what he might have gone through that day. Make him comfortable. Have him lean back in a comfortable chair or suggest he lie down in the bedroom. Have a cool or warm drink ready for him. Arrange his pillow and offer to take off his shoes. Speak in a low, soft, soothing and pleasant voice. Allow him to relax and unwind.
Listen to him. You may have a dozen things to tell him, but the moment of his arrival is not the time. Let him talk first.
Make the evening his. Never complain if he does not take you out to dinner or to other places of entertainment. Instead, try to understand his world of strain and pressure, his need to be home and relax.
The Goal: Try to make your home a place of peace and order where your husband can renew himself in body and spirit.
Thursday, September 20, 2007
Cameron slept on the floor
Cameron slept on the floor last Saturday night because Aunty Amy slept over for a night in his bed. He could have slept in the loft, but this is how we found him. He was waiting for the "girl" bedding to be removed from his bed!
Here you go Laura!
Laura in her blog had asked me a couple of questions about my life. So, FINALLY I am getting down to answering her! Here you go Laura!
Cathy - How do you get dinner on the table for 5 kids + 2 adults on time?
A good question Laura! Sometimes we eat cereal for dinner, or oatmeal. Or something like KD, or whole wheat noodles with sauce. Or, sometimes breakfast for dinner, something like scrambled eggs and toast. Those are for those really bad days, or when we need a quick bite so we can get out the door. You know, life gets in the way. Otherwise, we try to stick to a meal plan of some sort. We have regular meals that we break out every week. We try to get the whole family to eat the same things, but with some picky eaters (who shall remain nameless) we have to have a bit of give.
I like to use my crockpot in the fall. I have some great recipes that everybody eats. Like Sweet and Sour Chicken with rice, Chili and a Salsa Pork.
I also make a mean stove top Chicken Noodle Soup from scratch. Takes me two days, but my Dad tells me my soup is better than his Mom's soup. Maybe he is lying, but hey I will take that as a compliment!
We do tacos too. Other stuff like just chicken, with broccoli and potatoes or rice.
We try not to eat packaged foods (too expensive, and not enough for 7/8 people ) because they are not good for our bodies. We try our best. Sometimes Cliff cooks too! He is a great cook. He does a lot of the summer meals like BBQ stuff. Then, I would make the salad or whatever. I think we are a great team in the kitchen. We also get the kids to help us. They like helping.
I would say this, as we eat almost every night as a family at about 5:30 pm. Give or take a half hour. Plan and prepare and it CAN be done! And the kids look forward to dinner, as do we. We like to take a bit of time if we can at dinner to talk about our day. And, we work on table manners too! I know as the kids' activities increase we will lose a bit of time. But thankfully for today, we have that!
When do you start cooking?
Sometimes I prepare stuff for dinner the night before, and sometimes I do a bit in the day. But, I would say our meals are not elaborate or anything. Just fresh and good. I would say around 4/4:30 depending on the meal or when Cliff steps through the door.
What kind of car do you drive and how many car seats are in it?
Well, we do not have a car any more. We drive a van that seats 8 (for now!) and today, we have 3 booster seats, and 2 - 5 point harness seats. In a couple of weeks we will also have an infant seat. That seat is empty right now! No more room after number six arrives!!
Are you going to do the chalkboard paint in the new house?
I would love to, but I cannot find the right spot at this moment. I miss it, and so do the kids. I have a chalk board in my kitchen, and in our bathroom. We do chalk outside in the backyard now!
Cathy - How do you get dinner on the table for 5 kids + 2 adults on time?
A good question Laura! Sometimes we eat cereal for dinner, or oatmeal. Or something like KD, or whole wheat noodles with sauce. Or, sometimes breakfast for dinner, something like scrambled eggs and toast. Those are for those really bad days, or when we need a quick bite so we can get out the door. You know, life gets in the way. Otherwise, we try to stick to a meal plan of some sort. We have regular meals that we break out every week. We try to get the whole family to eat the same things, but with some picky eaters (who shall remain nameless) we have to have a bit of give.
I like to use my crockpot in the fall. I have some great recipes that everybody eats. Like Sweet and Sour Chicken with rice, Chili and a Salsa Pork.
I also make a mean stove top Chicken Noodle Soup from scratch. Takes me two days, but my Dad tells me my soup is better than his Mom's soup. Maybe he is lying, but hey I will take that as a compliment!
We do tacos too. Other stuff like just chicken, with broccoli and potatoes or rice.
We try not to eat packaged foods (too expensive, and not enough for 7/8 people ) because they are not good for our bodies. We try our best. Sometimes Cliff cooks too! He is a great cook. He does a lot of the summer meals like BBQ stuff. Then, I would make the salad or whatever. I think we are a great team in the kitchen. We also get the kids to help us. They like helping.
I would say this, as we eat almost every night as a family at about 5:30 pm. Give or take a half hour. Plan and prepare and it CAN be done! And the kids look forward to dinner, as do we. We like to take a bit of time if we can at dinner to talk about our day. And, we work on table manners too! I know as the kids' activities increase we will lose a bit of time. But thankfully for today, we have that!
When do you start cooking?
Sometimes I prepare stuff for dinner the night before, and sometimes I do a bit in the day. But, I would say our meals are not elaborate or anything. Just fresh and good. I would say around 4/4:30 depending on the meal or when Cliff steps through the door.
What kind of car do you drive and how many car seats are in it?
Well, we do not have a car any more. We drive a van that seats 8 (for now!) and today, we have 3 booster seats, and 2 - 5 point harness seats. In a couple of weeks we will also have an infant seat. That seat is empty right now! No more room after number six arrives!!
Are you going to do the chalkboard paint in the new house?
I would love to, but I cannot find the right spot at this moment. I miss it, and so do the kids. I have a chalk board in my kitchen, and in our bathroom. We do chalk outside in the backyard now!
Wednesday, September 19, 2007
One Organized Chick Recognized!
I don't usually toot my own horn, but when something exciting happens in my life I just have to share with you all. My organizing blog called One Organized Chick was added to a blog roll by thee John Trosko of OrganizingLA. I am so excited!
Here is my post from my organizing blog. If you click on the links, you can see for yourself.
I hope you check it out!
one nest at a time,
Cathy
Here is my post from my organizing blog. If you click on the links, you can see for yourself.
I hope you check it out!
one nest at a time,
Cathy
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
Aunty Amy visits and brings presents for all of the birthday kids!
Thank you Aunty Amy, Uncle Tyler and K! You always spoil the kids xoFrom Catie's 3rd Birthday
Catie is 3
Here is Catie with Taya Noemi her new baby who has a shirt that reads 'I love pirates' and has green eyes just like Catie. Taya's birthday is November 9th!
Here is Catie with Taya Noemi her new baby who has a shirt that reads 'I love pirates' and has green eyes just like Catie. Taya's birthday is November 9th!
Opening her cards and presents 
I am three and I have got the hang of this now!
Her birthday cake that was an ice cream cake! It was really good!
Wow! My candles that I get to blow out by myself (well, actually with help!)Tuesday, September 11, 2007
What does blogging mean to me?
1) Name the person, with link, who tagged you.
2) Complete the questionnaire without changing the questions.
3) Tag other people. This tag is a questionnaire to be answered on the topic "What does blogging mean to me?" I was tagged by Hope.
QUESTION 1: Are you happy/satisfied with your blog, with its content and look?
Appearance: Definitely not, but it will have to do until I do some changes after the new baby arrives. I will have new look, and probably a new blog name! I am ready for changes (in my life, and in my blogger world!)
Content: Nope. I feel like I don't have enough time to devote more to my blog!
Look: The look of my blog is very boring!
QUESTION 2: Does your family know about your blog?Yes they do, and sometimes that is good, and sometimes that is bad.
QUESTION 3: Do you feel embarrassed to let your friends know about your blog or do you just consider it I private thing?Nope, it is my outlet getting things out when I need to. But, sometimes I cannot say EVERYTHING because that would mean my family reads that lol.
QUESTION 4: Did your blog cause positive change in your thoughts?I would say that sure, for the most part it has.
QUESTION 5: Do you only open the blogs of those who comment to your blog or do you love to go and discover more by yourself? I visit my blog readers who comment, and I surf on my own. I am always discovering new things and people that way! It is a lot of fun!
QUESTION 6: What does your visitor counter mean to you? Do you care about put it in your blog?I have a counter, and my goal is to get more readers! Enough so that I can get famous one day ;D
QUESTION 7: Did you try to imagine your fellow bloggers and give them real pictures? Do you mean like putting a face to a name?! Well sure! Don't we all do that?
QUESTION 8: Do you think there is a real benefit to blogging? In some ways yes, it allows me to remember parts of my day that I may not remember next week. Blogging gives me time to myself, and getting a good laugh or two also.
QUESTION 9: Do you think that bloggers society is isolated from the real world or interacts with events? I think like life, blogging has to be an balancing act!
QUESTION 10: Does criticism annoy you or do you feel it's a normal thing? Yes it annoys me, especially when it is my blog, my feelings and a blogger attacks. I don't think that is fair. That is why I read the comments first, and choose to post the comments I want to. Some of them are not worthy of posting. And, I will not respond. No need to add fuel to the fire so to speak.
QUESTION 11: Do you fear some political blogs and avoid them? I chose not to go there.
QUESTION 12: Did you get shocked by the arrest of some bloggers?I hadn't heard about this! Doesn't surprise or shock me though.
QUESTION 13: Did you think what would happen to your blog after you died? Yes I have. And, I hope my kids or family would keep the blog up for me! (I better make a mental note to give my passwords and stuff to my family ;D)
QUESTION 14: What do you like to hear? What's the song you might like to put in a link, in your blog? I love the sound of peace and quiet after a long day, but I also really enjoy hearing the sounds of my kids and my family when they are all behaving. As for a song? Wow. Big Girls Don't Cry by Fergie. Or, maybe Little Wonders by Rob Thomas.
Tag : YOU'RE IT!
Blogger's note: It didn't say how many people to tag, and I only know a few, and Alphonse only picked three, so here are my three:
Cynthia - A good friend, who is so talented with her graphic design and a loving mother! She is expecting her 2nd baby in March 2008.
April - My sister, and good friend who is almost completed her first year of motherhood!
Alyson - A blogging friend, who if lived next door to me would be a very close friend. Kindred spirits right Alyson! ;D
2) Complete the questionnaire without changing the questions.
3) Tag other people. This tag is a questionnaire to be answered on the topic "What does blogging mean to me?" I was tagged by Hope.
QUESTION 1: Are you happy/satisfied with your blog, with its content and look?
Appearance: Definitely not, but it will have to do until I do some changes after the new baby arrives. I will have new look, and probably a new blog name! I am ready for changes (in my life, and in my blogger world!)
Content: Nope. I feel like I don't have enough time to devote more to my blog!
Look: The look of my blog is very boring!
QUESTION 2: Does your family know about your blog?Yes they do, and sometimes that is good, and sometimes that is bad.
QUESTION 3: Do you feel embarrassed to let your friends know about your blog or do you just consider it I private thing?Nope, it is my outlet getting things out when I need to. But, sometimes I cannot say EVERYTHING because that would mean my family reads that lol.
QUESTION 4: Did your blog cause positive change in your thoughts?I would say that sure, for the most part it has.
QUESTION 5: Do you only open the blogs of those who comment to your blog or do you love to go and discover more by yourself? I visit my blog readers who comment, and I surf on my own. I am always discovering new things and people that way! It is a lot of fun!
QUESTION 6: What does your visitor counter mean to you? Do you care about put it in your blog?I have a counter, and my goal is to get more readers! Enough so that I can get famous one day ;D
QUESTION 7: Did you try to imagine your fellow bloggers and give them real pictures? Do you mean like putting a face to a name?! Well sure! Don't we all do that?
QUESTION 8: Do you think there is a real benefit to blogging? In some ways yes, it allows me to remember parts of my day that I may not remember next week. Blogging gives me time to myself, and getting a good laugh or two also.
QUESTION 9: Do you think that bloggers society is isolated from the real world or interacts with events? I think like life, blogging has to be an balancing act!
QUESTION 10: Does criticism annoy you or do you feel it's a normal thing? Yes it annoys me, especially when it is my blog, my feelings and a blogger attacks. I don't think that is fair. That is why I read the comments first, and choose to post the comments I want to. Some of them are not worthy of posting. And, I will not respond. No need to add fuel to the fire so to speak.
QUESTION 11: Do you fear some political blogs and avoid them? I chose not to go there.
QUESTION 12: Did you get shocked by the arrest of some bloggers?I hadn't heard about this! Doesn't surprise or shock me though.
QUESTION 13: Did you think what would happen to your blog after you died? Yes I have. And, I hope my kids or family would keep the blog up for me! (I better make a mental note to give my passwords and stuff to my family ;D)
QUESTION 14: What do you like to hear? What's the song you might like to put in a link, in your blog? I love the sound of peace and quiet after a long day, but I also really enjoy hearing the sounds of my kids and my family when they are all behaving. As for a song? Wow. Big Girls Don't Cry by Fergie. Or, maybe Little Wonders by Rob Thomas.
Tag : YOU'RE IT!
Blogger's note: It didn't say how many people to tag, and I only know a few, and Alphonse only picked three, so here are my three:
Cynthia - A good friend, who is so talented with her graphic design and a loving mother! She is expecting her 2nd baby in March 2008.
April - My sister, and good friend who is almost completed her first year of motherhood!
Alyson - A blogging friend, who if lived next door to me would be a very close friend. Kindred spirits right Alyson! ;D
Sunday, September 09, 2007
Catie is three today!
Curious, adventurous, and playful from womb to room lol!
Full of smiles, laughter and happiness! 
How can we forget the pirate face, and the many other fun faces you make Catie! You know how to make us all laugh! 
You potty trained before any of the other kids! And now you are there! We are so proud of you!
My Catie girl, a photo of you from summer time. As you are my summer girl. You are my little pink rose.
Our dear little Catie, and the only child in the family with a shortened name (just like Mom) and we were both born on on a Thursday! We called you "trickster" when you were inside of my uterus. We had troubles hearing your heartbeat early on, you would kick at the doppler. You were in my belly when we filmed Crash Test Mommy back in July of 2004 when I was 31 weeks pregnant with you. I wish now the film crew and viewers could have met you too. Because, they are missing out on you! You would light up the screen my darling gal.
You have this face, this beautiful little face. This face that smiles and lights up the whole room. We love that about you. You give big hugs, you can count almost to 20, and you help others. You are so giving and caring. We are so glad you came into our lives Catie. You bring such joy into our family and we could not imagine life without you. You have adjusted into our family so nicely. Potty training before the age of three, switching houses, room mates, car seats, places in the van, from high chair to table, from crib to a bed! So many changes for you, and you did them so easily. You are very adaptable.
The one thing I notice about you, is that you are tiny, but you do not let that stop you! You will not let others bother you, or hurt you even when you are way smaller than them. You go for the gusto! I love holding your hands, because I still describe them as "baby" hands. You have these delicate little hands, but yet you can give a big hit! (right Papa!)
I also love how you can do somersaults, and you swing on the swing and pump your legs!
We look forward to seeing what you will be doing in the following year Catie. We know you will continue to grow into a fine young woman! Now, no more self hair cuts! No more mullets! Maybe this year some pigtails would be fun xo.
Happy third birthday!
The journey of Catie
Here I am pregnant with Catie on her birthday. I was 39 weeks along, and the longest we have ever waited for a baby to come!
Here are the three of us in the hospital just after she was born
Here is the second day, with the big kids admiring their little sister in the hospital
Here is a crazy family photo, and it is the only one of that time
Here is Catie at 5 months old!Yesterday
Yesterday was Cliff's birthday. We took him to the Cruise In, and we also hung out with my sister Amy and her guy Tyler. They brought over the kids' birthday presents, so it was like Christmas for the three kids! Bags and paper everywhere. They sure picked out nice presents for the birthday kids. Thank you Aunty Amy, Uncle Tyler and K. We had a nice afternoon with you both! Send us some photos when you can!
Friday, September 07, 2007
a new profile...
I decided I should update my Blogger profile and photo. I had my hair done yesterday and felt because it was fall it was time! The last photo was from my first trimester! Time for a change. I didn't do my usual bob. I went with some layers, but kept the blonde! I think I have more fun this way lol!
It is Friday!
Well, the week has certainly flown by. All the adjustments and tweaking we needed to make in order to make the transition back to school as smooth as possible. I would say we have had great success so far!
We are back at our "school bedtime" for the kids. Which is now back to 8 pm, with the exception of Cameron who reads in bed for about an hour. He just loves to read! The kids sure go down easy! I am sure it is all of the walking and new things tuckering them all out! I know I can certainly feel it! I sleep well too! So does Cliff.
School started back on Tuesday of course, and Cameron started in Grade Three, and Claire started Grade One. Carly, on Wednesday started her gradual entry into Kindergarten. Catie, already wants to start Kindergarten! I keep telling her two more years! In two more years. I was going to put her into preschool this year, but decided to pull her out until next year. She is fine here at home with me and the other kids. She also wasn't potty trained, but now she is really there I think! Oh well. I will be nice to have the two, and then the three at home with me. I have really noticed the absence of Claire at home in the afternoons. I am always counting the kids to make sure I have them all! My home feels the empty void. My heart feels the empty void of all of the kids being away at school. It feels really strange to just have our two little ones at home. And of course the baby in my belly, which makes its presence know to me!!
It is a slow start to the year, gradual I guess. That is OK with me. The summer was a good one. A long 10 weeks, but mostly happy 10 weeks. It could have been longer and that would have been fine with me. After school today, we will find out who their teachers and classrooms for the year will be. It will be great to have that settled! Come Monday, they can bring their backpacks, their lunches, their gym bags etc. It will be good for all of them.
I am looking forward to starting fresh! We are enjoying our walks and noticing how cool the air is in the morning, and how warm it still gets in the afternoon. Fall is definitely in the air! We have been enjoying watching the leaves blow, and the vivid colours of the fallen leaves. Cliff has a birthday tomorrow. He turns 35. And, Catie dear turns 3 on Sunday! Then the birthdays are over for a bit. But, we have the new addition coming in 12 short weeks! Then the hustle and bustle of Christmas and the new year! I wish the days would slow down so I could enjoy them more. With routine, sometimes comes a bit of blah. But, we will work on adding in some excitement to help with that! Cameron and Claire are now registered into a 19 week gymnastics program once a week for 1.5 hours (Thankfully on the same night!)
My friend Lisa took a photo of the 5 kids on the very first day of school, and I am waiting for her to send that to me. I will take an official first day of school photo on Monday for the 2 big kids, and then on Wednesday when Carly FINALLY has her first full class!
Time to start putting away the summer toys, and getting ready for the fall and winter. Time to put the patio umbrella away for another year. Time to get more of the fall clothing and gear out!
We are back at our "school bedtime" for the kids. Which is now back to 8 pm, with the exception of Cameron who reads in bed for about an hour. He just loves to read! The kids sure go down easy! I am sure it is all of the walking and new things tuckering them all out! I know I can certainly feel it! I sleep well too! So does Cliff.
School started back on Tuesday of course, and Cameron started in Grade Three, and Claire started Grade One. Carly, on Wednesday started her gradual entry into Kindergarten. Catie, already wants to start Kindergarten! I keep telling her two more years! In two more years. I was going to put her into preschool this year, but decided to pull her out until next year. She is fine here at home with me and the other kids. She also wasn't potty trained, but now she is really there I think! Oh well. I will be nice to have the two, and then the three at home with me. I have really noticed the absence of Claire at home in the afternoons. I am always counting the kids to make sure I have them all! My home feels the empty void. My heart feels the empty void of all of the kids being away at school. It feels really strange to just have our two little ones at home. And of course the baby in my belly, which makes its presence know to me!!
It is a slow start to the year, gradual I guess. That is OK with me. The summer was a good one. A long 10 weeks, but mostly happy 10 weeks. It could have been longer and that would have been fine with me. After school today, we will find out who their teachers and classrooms for the year will be. It will be great to have that settled! Come Monday, they can bring their backpacks, their lunches, their gym bags etc. It will be good for all of them.
I am looking forward to starting fresh! We are enjoying our walks and noticing how cool the air is in the morning, and how warm it still gets in the afternoon. Fall is definitely in the air! We have been enjoying watching the leaves blow, and the vivid colours of the fallen leaves. Cliff has a birthday tomorrow. He turns 35. And, Catie dear turns 3 on Sunday! Then the birthdays are over for a bit. But, we have the new addition coming in 12 short weeks! Then the hustle and bustle of Christmas and the new year! I wish the days would slow down so I could enjoy them more. With routine, sometimes comes a bit of blah. But, we will work on adding in some excitement to help with that! Cameron and Claire are now registered into a 19 week gymnastics program once a week for 1.5 hours (Thankfully on the same night!)
My friend Lisa took a photo of the 5 kids on the very first day of school, and I am waiting for her to send that to me. I will take an official first day of school photo on Monday for the 2 big kids, and then on Wednesday when Carly FINALLY has her first full class!
Time to start putting away the summer toys, and getting ready for the fall and winter. Time to put the patio umbrella away for another year. Time to get more of the fall clothing and gear out!
Caroline and Carly
Caroline took one of Cliff's shirts out of the dirty laundry, and put it on herself. She was very pleased with herself for getting the shirt on!
To me, she is a spitting image of her Daddy! She even has his dimple in the same spot. She just melts my heart! I wonder why! She also looks like her brother, and has a lot of the same personality traits.
Carly, oh Carly. She is in the phase where she does NOT want a photo taken...too bad lol.the night before...
The first day of school
Cameron is 8, Catie is 2, Carly is 5, Caroline is 16 months and Claire is 6.
Cameron is 8, Catie is 2, Carly is 5, Caroline is 16 months and Claire is 6.
Caroline, couldn't you just stay on the couch for a minute ;D
Hard to get all 5 on the couch at once. I cannot imagine what 6 will be like?!
Budding Artists! Our Summer Art Party (more below!)
Here is Catie with pink hair! She had a blast!
Here is Cameron, painted black and sparkly!
The whole fence had paper, with different colour paints to mix and explore. Some used brushes, some used their hands. But, the object was to have fun. There were even pastels to experiment with too. As you can see from the photo, that the trampoline was even painted! They had lots of paint. Even the dolly strollers got a bit of painting too!
Some more of the paiting finished on the fence! At one point all of the kids were lined up and painting together. I wished I had a panoramic view...too bad.
I can promise you, that the water started off clear! And, that all of the paints were washable! I am not THAT CRAZY!!!
End of Summer Vacation Art Party
The younger kids having a snack on the trampoline (notice Cameron at the fence)
A different perspective
The kids with paper, envelopes, stickers, dabbers, felts, foam shapes, glue and glitter glue
Catie with pinky red hair! She had a great time!
Bright and Early!
I had a few friends over. And my few friends had some kids. I had my 4/5, Carol's 3, Kristy's 2, and Twila's 2. So, that is 11 kids over for some last minute summer fun (so glad the rain stayed away until the afternoon!) and a snack. I think the kids had fun, as did the adults. I think this will be our yearly do! It was a lot of fun! And, truly the worst clean up was of my son. Who decided it would be fun to paint himself black and sparkly lol. The rest was easy lol.
I think her diaper days are OVER!
Catie is very pleased with her accomplishment! 
Here is Catie, taken this morning. She will be three on Sunday!
Thursday, September 06, 2007
done? trained?!
I *think* Catie might be officially trained!
She hasn't worn a diaper since two nights ago. She took the diaper off, put on undies. And since then has done all poops and pees on the toilet. No special seats or anything! Just high fives and calls to Daddy at work! I am so happy.
That means we could just have the one in diapers until baby is here. Then back to two in diapers! This will be our first child to train before their 3rd bday! Yay Catie! You are a big girl now!
She hasn't worn a diaper since two nights ago. She took the diaper off, put on undies. And since then has done all poops and pees on the toilet. No special seats or anything! Just high fives and calls to Daddy at work! I am so happy.
That means we could just have the one in diapers until baby is here. Then back to two in diapers! This will be our first child to train before their 3rd bday! Yay Catie! You are a big girl now!
Tuesday, September 04, 2007
An accident, and a success...
How is the potty training going? Well, yesterday Catie had a minor pee accident in her bed. Easily solved with a a bit of laundry, and a reminder of where pee goes. She has spent more time in undies, than a diaper the past while.
So, today after our first day of school. Catie says from the washroom "I went poo poo!!!" and I said "Where did you go poo poo?" and Catie says "In the toilet!" so I make my way to the washroom and low and behold a big log in the toilet, and she hops off with her bum in the air for me to wipe her! I happy clapped, and was so EXCITED!! It was like we won the lottery! And, then...we called Daddy on the phone so she could share her good news!!
It could be possible that she is trained by her third birthday this weekend! *containing excitement!!*
Yay Catie!!! We are so proud of you!!
So, today after our first day of school. Catie says from the washroom "I went poo poo!!!" and I said "Where did you go poo poo?" and Catie says "In the toilet!" so I make my way to the washroom and low and behold a big log in the toilet, and she hops off with her bum in the air for me to wipe her! I happy clapped, and was so EXCITED!! It was like we won the lottery! And, then...we called Daddy on the phone so she could share her good news!!
It could be possible that she is trained by her third birthday this weekend! *containing excitement!!*
Yay Catie!!! We are so proud of you!!
Sunday, September 02, 2007
Mom Mystery No. 1
Why will my kids all use bottles now, but when when we desperately needed them to take a bottle they wouldn't?
Today, and yesterday I have plucked 4 different bottles, complete with liners all over the house. *scratching head in confusion*
Today, and yesterday I have plucked 4 different bottles, complete with liners all over the house. *scratching head in confusion*
two words
Poo Poo.
Normally I do not get excited about poop. Especially if it is ingested, or played with or what have you. But, when poop goes plop into the toilet. We get really happy! That is what happened to us today!
Catie did a poo poo into the toilet today! She said "I have to go poo poo." So we rushed her to the toilet! And, yup. She did it! All by herself. We all took turns looking in the toilet and high fives and clapping for her. She was so excited with all of that special attention too!
It has been a good day. Now, will this continue? I don't know. But I know she felt mighty proud of herself. We are proud of her! She in the first child to poop on the real toilet (without a special potty or toilet seat cover) and start before the age of three! I hope by her third birthday we will be done!! Oh that would be great! I was having visions of three in diapers and was getting scared. I won't try to get too excited. *containing excitement*
Normally I do not get excited about poop. Especially if it is ingested, or played with or what have you. But, when poop goes plop into the toilet. We get really happy! That is what happened to us today!
Catie did a poo poo into the toilet today! She said "I have to go poo poo." So we rushed her to the toilet! And, yup. She did it! All by herself. We all took turns looking in the toilet and high fives and clapping for her. She was so excited with all of that special attention too!
It has been a good day. Now, will this continue? I don't know. But I know she felt mighty proud of herself. We are proud of her! She in the first child to poop on the real toilet (without a special potty or toilet seat cover) and start before the age of three! I hope by her third birthday we will be done!! Oh that would be great! I was having visions of three in diapers and was getting scared. I won't try to get too excited. *containing excitement*
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