MurrayvilleMom

new one started

2010-07-02T13:16:00.000-07:00

Hello my family and friends!

I have started a new blog, and found a new name for it! FINALLY

We have been settling in really nicely. I cannot believe we have been here for 2 weeks and 2 days already!

If you would like to see it, please send me your email, and I will send the link! You can email me if you know me personally, or leave that info in the comments section. I will check back here later.

Cheers!

Cathy

Good bye Murrayville! Good Bye!

2010-06-18T12:46:00.001-07:00

Well, we are happy in our new place! We are getting settled in, finding new places to do our daily grind!

All we know is that we LOVE LOVE LOVE it here! Totally the best decision ever!

Still trying to figure out a new name for my blog! Once I do, and we get a little more settled and things in their places I will get blogging with some photos of our new place!

I will post that link up here so you all will know!

Cathy

1 boy, and 5 girls

2010-06-13T19:50:00.000-07:00

Last Weekend Here

2010-06-12T21:26:00.000-07:00

Some design inspiration. I think our bedroom will be a peaceful, calm white. With a pop of colour. LOVING the white. I LOVE white very much. We have lived in a BROWN house for three years and I know I am not a dark brown kind of girl. I need light and airy.

I think i will do white in my new office as well! Cannot wait to dream in our new place!

****

Wow! The boxes are reaching the ceiling! We are getting there with our packing! I am really thankful the sunshine decided to come out for this weekend! It was absolutely gorgeous out today!

It is weird living basically out of boxes. It is weird knowing that this is IT! Next weekend we will be busy unpacking and getting our new house feeling like our HOME.

Still trying to come up with a new blog name. The right one hasn't hit me yet! Just like this move hasn't hit me yet!

Time for a glass of wine.

One Week

2010-06-10T16:41:00.000-07:00

Taken on my iPhone in our new town!

In just one week, we all wake up in a brand new home! I cannot believe how quickly this day is coming!

We are really excited!

So, obviously, I will not be MurrayvilleMom anymore. So, I am thinking I need to begin a new blog, to remember this time in our lives, and to document life in a brand new town! And, of course to keep our family in-the-loop.

I would love some help picking a new blog name! If your blog name is chosen by me, there might be a gift card in there for you with your name on it! So, please...add your blog name suggestions in the comments section below. The only thing I can come up with is Cathy and Cliff plus Six. Not so original, but we get called this a lot. So...I would love something original and special.

It has been a long process, deciding to move, to pack up and go to a brand new town where we really know only a set of cousins. And me, a couple of photographer friends! Lots of new adventures on the horizon for our family of eight. A new school for the four big kids. New trails to walk on, new shops to discover. Wow! We are almost there.

I cannot believe that I have been blogging here since May 16th, 2006. When we had a newborn who was number 5, and a family of 7. Oh how life changes so quickly! Caroline, she was supposed to be our last baby. Oh how I am glad that was not the case! Coco has injected a whole lot of joy into all of our lives. Completing this babymaking journey I have been on during the last decade or so.

We are truly excited to have fresh start with our family of eight. I have recently noticed that an eight, turned sideways looks like the symbol of infinity. I think that is really cool!

We are moving on, creating brand new beautiful family memories. Pieces of eight.

Little Rag Doll

2010-05-31T19:40:00.000-07:00

A long long time ago, back when we had an 'average' size family my sister Amy bought either Claire or Carly a pair of wooden clogs. Well, as we were packing up and sorting through boxes etc. We came across the clogs again. Coco really likes them. I love seeing something get another use again!

P.S. Coco used the toilet again tonight to go pee. 4th time now!! Go Coco GO!

Growing Girl

2010-05-31T18:21:00.000-07:00

We had a really great week last week. Things are changing around here! The kids are growing up, and we are liking all that is happening to our family! We are having a lot of fun together that is for sure. For many Sunday's in a row, my parents have been taking all of the other five kids to Sunday school. They of course leave little Coco behind to spend a quiet morning with us. It has been highly enjoyable for all of us. This past Sunday Cliff, Coco and I went IHOP for pancakes. It is certainly easier heading out with one little one. And as you can see from the photos she is full of life!

If you are wondering how the images look like that? It is an app for my iPhone called "Hipstamatic" and I absolutely love it! It is fun just to take photos of the kids just because. I need to do more of that.

We are down to a mere two weeks before we move. Still need to figure out a blog name for us. I hope to blog more about our life as a family of eight.

Still a lot to do! We are breaking it down in chunks to get it all done. I am glad that we did a lot of prep work before we listed our place.

New adventures on the horizon! We are so excited!

Sisters

2010-05-31T18:03:00.000-07:00

This is what I love most about sisters, and their sisterly love!

They were sleeping together. I guess the day wore them out.

Big Girl Now?

2010-05-21T18:30:00.000-07:00

Coco went pee in the toilet again tonight! You should have seen the excitement around here!

She did it her first pee last week ! (I missed the first one!) This is her second time!

Could this be the end of diapers? I won't get too excited just yet.

Happy Friday!

Friday Five!

2010-05-21T16:02:00.000-07:00

Me and my two sisters who I adore and love. Their support and laughter keeps me going on the days when I feel like giving up! I love that we are all Mom's now!

The original family! This was taken on Mother's Day. We all snuck into the corner for a photo. Rare!

We have a long weekend coming up this weekend! It is good, because we have a lot of packing to do! Yes, we are moving! Our move will bring us to a brand new town, and we cannot be more excited! Life is changing and we are all looking forward to brand new adventures together!

Thank you for the great suggestions for new blogs for me to check out! Much appreciated!

I have a LOT of packing to do. A LOT! Feels like we just got in here, however we were here for over three years! So many changes in those three little years.

I need to figure out a new blog name, if I decide to keep blogging. Still thinking on that! Maybe I can get some help on this! I may blog just to keep our family up-to-date on the goings on with our family! Not sure if I can keep up with it all.

I gave away all of my little girls stuff, and I got rid of Cameron's crib today. It has been a bittersweet week for sure. Not willing to pack it all and not use it. The items are best being used by babies who need it!

Had a nice hug from an old high school friend. The one who took the crib! Love her and miss her! It has been too long!

I am not running at all. Just taking it easy as we adjust to all of the new stuff happening around us!

Happy Weekend!

Cathy

Interesting Blogs

2010-05-20T18:15:00.000-07:00

Which is your 'go-to' blog each day? I have my blogs along the side that I love.

I am looking for some new/different/fresh blogs to read. Maybe about photography, maybe a Mom with six kids. Maybe beautiful art or home decorating.

Anyways, if you know of a goodie! Please let me know if the comments please!

Cathy

cathy [pieces of me]

2010-05-18T22:24:00.001-07:00

A self portrait.

Something I hope to do more of in the future. I just used my photobooth, and then edited to my liking in photoshop. I just love the wash of sunlight in this photo. Sunshine makes me happy!

I also made some changes to my blog.

My Mother's Day and more...

2010-05-18T19:16:00.001-07:00

Oh here is me with my sweet little nephew Colby. I got few minutes of cuddle time.

Me and my sweet little Caroline.

A photo with me and my hubby. We started with the two of us back in 1998, and 12 years later...

A full round of 8. Instant party :D

A stellar family photo!!

(Thank you to my Mom who is the family photographer these days! xo)

delish* magazine

2010-05-17T17:18:00.000-07:00

You need to check out this most beautiful magazine called delish* which was unveiled today! Three of my friend/blogger/online friends created it, along with many other talents inside! I also spied Laura in there. She'd better get flipping! My photography is in there too! See if you can find it :D

Please spread the word about delish! Congratulations Tamara, Cynthia and Emma!

Mother's Day and our Anniversary Day

2010-05-17T16:17:00.001-07:00

Here is one photo that 'sort of' worked out LOL. This was AFTER a long and busy day and we were all worn out. I am so thankful and grateful for my beautiful kids.

Nice photo. Thanks Cameron! Happy 12 years honey!

Thanks Claire!

Thanks Carly! (They all wanted to take a photo of us! We gave up after this beauty LOL)

I love my six pack! xo

Our Anniversary [12]

2010-05-17T15:56:00.001-07:00

We were able to get out for dinner the evening before our real anniversary. Thank you to Cliff's Mom for helping us to get out by ourselves the night before our 12th Anniversary. (which was also Mother's Day.)

We headed out to Milestones. I tried a new wine (Talus, Pinot Grigio from California) very smooth and a touch of sweetness. Loved it. Loved the time alone with my husband more. The gift of time together is a real gift these days! I wore a brand new maxi dress, and had my toes done. I heart spring! So many beautiful days and moments in the merry, merry month of May. We didn't even get a photo of us both LOL.

Caroline [4]

2010-05-16T09:06:00.000-07:00

My in our household is always a busy time. Add is some major life changes and whammo. Life is crazier than before! I am attempting to catch up this blog!

Our sweet little Caroline Mae had her birthday back in the beginning of May! I think you can tell from the photos that she turned FOUR!

We had a nice lunch with Nanny and Pappa and of course our family. We had cake too. Chocolate cake (Carolines choice) and we also had cupcakes.

Caroline really wanted a "puutar" so she got one. A purple guitar. Caroline loves music, and loves to sing.

Caroline, we love you. xo

10 x 5 = 50

2010-05-13T13:54:00.000-07:00

My girls and their pink painted toenails.

Claire.

Carly.

Catie.

Caroline (check out how rough her feet are!)

Coconut.

Having one boy and five girls is awesome. I have really been enjoying watching the kids grow lately! With our "baby" turning three this November. I am finding it easier to do things. And go places. Less struggle than when we had a newborn in the house. I do miss newborns however. I am thankful to my two younger sisters for having babies so I can cuddle and give them back.

With five girls, there are cute clothes, cute shoes. Fun hair and lots of fingernails and toenails. I finally went out and bought the brightest pink I could find. I painted fifty little itty bitty toenails. It was fun. I can see some of the kids have my feet and toes. Poor girls. I cannot wait to do it again with them! It is also a good time to connect with each of them. One on one. And of course for some quiet time as they are banned to the sofa.

While you were working!

2010-05-13T13:40:00.000-07:00

Lemon Meringue on the window ledge.

I think the pieces are oranges. Or maybe pie pieces. My kids like knives. They ALL have gone for the serrated knives over the years. Starting with Cameron. In fact, he used to suck his fingers. Until he cut his finger. He never sucked his fingers again. Now, history repeats with the knives, and the finger sucking. Courtney and Cameron were/are the only ones to suck their fingers. Not bad out of six kids! No more injuries by knife thank goodness. Only myself when trying to cook!

I think this was another 2 litre of milk. They tried to clean it up :D

I work a lot. I am running my family, running my business. Sometimes I get caught up (well a lot of the time) I get caught up on tasks. And things happen while I am working. Here are a few randoms I remember to snap as the days go by!

Remember, it is all my fault! I was not paying attention when this happened. And no kids were hurt either.

I didn't take photos of the last 'incident' which were frozen blueberries. Again, all my fault. I had deadline to meet. Was stuck in my office. And Caroline and Coco got into the big blues. It was a mess. I chose not to photograph. Ugggh. I had to cancel a get together with my Granny. Sorry Granny! It was a BAD moment!!

Returns

2010-05-13T13:31:00.001-07:00

We took a trip to our local IKEA awhile back. Family trips in the van are always a lot of fun! We pick up some Tim Horton's and they get a couple of Timbits each.

This particular trip was last minute. I cannot even remember what we bought! Hmmm I have to keep thinking on that. My memory is so bad now that I am so old :D

Anyways, we arrived and the sign above them was perfect! We told them to make a grumpy pouty face and that is what they did. The photos are better on Cliff's camera. LOL.

A home movie.

2010-05-11T10:44:00.000-07:00

Claire had to prepare and read a speech in her grade three class earlier this year. She choose to write about her family. Cliff started taping her without anybody knowing. This video is a sneak peek into the life of our family. I love it! Always loud, but there is always love. And some crazy moments. Very crazy moments.

Like when Dora the Explorer got into the peanut butter and cream cheese. Right Caroline!!? Totally random, and a whole other day with many more stories and images just like this one!

A walk along the river.

2010-05-11T10:34:00.000-07:00

My Catie Girl.

My sweet Caroline!

My six. In the golden sunlight.

Favourite iPhone Photos

2010-05-11T10:20:00.000-07:00

Cameron, Claire and Carly in DT Vancouver during the Olympics!

P.S. The colour on here is the lighting on the sculpture. I love the effects!

and one, two three JUMP!

I am finally downloading my images off of my phone. I hope to post some more photos today! I am playing catch up online! :D

What to say?

2010-05-06T20:55:00.000-07:00

I am what? I am feeling how? I feel like? I don't feel like. I am not sure. I am tired. I need a holiday. I need a break.

I cannot believe Caroline turned 4. I cannot believe I have so many photos to develop that I am overwhelmed at how absolutely empty the photo albums are. Especially Coco's. Too much time to get it all together. However feeling that MEGA guilt of not getting it done. I think I should hire somebody to get those done for me. I think I need to outsource that part of my life!

My new little Nephew was born one week ago! Welcome to the world Colby Thomas! How we adore you. I am insanely proud of my warrior sister Amy who endured so much! SOOOO proud of you, and the Mom you have become in the last week. So amazing! I took some photos of the little sweetie. I am waiting for the birth announcement before I share any photos. All I know is that he is wonderful!

This weekend, Cliff and I celebrate 12 married years. Yes, our anniversary is on Sunday. Also on Mothers Day. That was poorly planned ;D

That is a lot of years together, and I wish we could celebrate it. However, it will be pretty lame as per usual. Hopefully the 20th anniversary will make up for it LOL. We really haven't made that big a deal of the married years. I think we celebrate enough. Maybe just not on the day. But we often talk about our life together. Life is good to us!

And, well. We are making a move. A big move. I will blog more about that later. Let me just say, I will not be MurrayvilleMom anymore. Remember the big stuff I was talking about early. Yah. I may create a brand new blog, with a fresh feel, or I may not blog anymore. Well, except for my work blog.

Swagger Wagon

2010-05-04T11:54:00.000-07:00

I think this is awesome. I wish I could fit a swagger wagon too! My favourite line "Where my motherfather at" so hilarious!

Happy Tuesday!

Perfect

2010-04-28T13:23:00.000-07:00

Beautiful peonies from last year. Feel free to right click and save! xo

Today has been a perfect day for me. Easy getting out the door. Kids that helped me when I asked for help. The kids used their manners nicely today.

Hugs and love first thing in the morning. Artwork with Mommy and a rainbow on a page meant just for me. Kids jumping on a trampoline together. Fits of laughter and joy filling the yard, and my heart.

Sunshine. Bonus!

Totally a Tuesday...

2010-04-20T13:08:00.000-07:00

I had a nice quiet morning this morning. The kind of morning that I always wish for. This morning it happened.

We walked up to drop off all four big kids at school (that part of the morning not so great...LOL) When we were home again, we popped in the move Enchanted and just watched it. Coco on my left, and Caroline on my right. Courtney slept, with her feet pressed into my armpits. Caroline, snuggled into my side.

I hardly get a quiet opportunity like this particular moment. It was nice. Until I had to wake up Courtney, and pause the show to go get Catie from school. Back to the normal day to day grind. I am always thankful for these little moments that I appreciate so very much.

aching in my ovaries

2010-04-13T17:57:00.000-07:00

I have to say, getting my period sucks. It is long, it is frustrating. I forgot what getting regular periods are like. Now I remember. And I wish I could have a break from it. Yuck.

I also have to say that with people getting pregnant, announcing new pregnancies. Birthing new babies. Waiting on babies (like my little sis Amy) my ovaries are aching a lot. Not physically I guess, but mentally I miss having a baby in the house. I cannot believe that we have an almost three year old (in November) and almost the end of diapers.

All of these lasts. I always go in and kiss all of the kids goodnight, and tuck them in before I make it into bed. I gently run my hand over my little Coco's silky hair. Run my hand along her growing body. I ache. I miss that new baby. That time when everything felt the best in my life. With a baby on my hip, or attached to me elsewhere. Babies. There is nothing like them in the world. Not easily replaced by running, photography. Dinners out. Wine. Nothing. I have felt this void lately. It pulls me, it tugs at my emotions.

I have to say I am surprised at how strong these feeling are. I know we are done, but this feeling of getting closer to 40. Me. Looking at my frown lines in between my eyebrows. Me watching my skin get more wrinkly. Watching my baby years pass by me too quickly. Watching the kids grow up all around me. My oldest who now stands up so tall that his head is almost at my mouth. I miss that baby stage. I recently got rid of all of my baby girls stuff. The boy stuff long gone. Gave away little swimmers to my other sis April. The sweet little white basinette waiting for Amy's new little one. I have bags and boxes of girls stuff. Just waiting on my sister to see what she is having! Today she is 40 weeks. She looks amazing, and I cannot wait to see if there is a sweet niece or sweet nephew in there. Only time will tell.

Wondering, how do I really feel. Am I OK with this? Am I going to be able to live knowing six kids are enough. Wondering just how hard another pregnancy would be on my body. How would my legs hold out. How would the kids feel?! How would we feel about this.

Yes, I am sure by now you all think I am crazy, but sometimes I wonder if we are crazy NOT to.

Here I am. Feeling these all to familiar feelings. Once again.

I guess it is just a case of the baby fever. Only time will tell. All I know is that my ovaries are aching. I feel a sense of emptiness. Of sadness. Of wondering.

Is our life complete? I have to take some time to think about this. Maybe one I get my 'baby fix' these feelings will leave me once again.

Friday!

2010-04-09T13:12:00.000-07:00

Whoa, where did March go? How did April get here so fast! Whirlwind of activity around our place lately. More on that next week.

I hardly have the time to think! Today, I told my Mom I was hadn't seen her since Thanksgiving. However, I meant Easter. Thanks for correcting me today Mom. And, thank you for giving us the bags of sliced oranges and apples for our drive home. That was a nice treat for us all. Those little things sure keep me going these days!

We had the whole family over for Easter dinner last weekend. Full turkey dinner, and a ham. And a birthday cake. And some lemon meringue pie. And wine. And coffee, and strong tea. Right April?!

We also sang happy birthday to my sister April, and my Mom. Their birthday's are two days apart. (April baked her own cake poor sis LOL--p.s. she said she would bring it or else I would have had one there!!) And, I got to see my sister Amy's beautiful belly. Her first baby! She is due April 13th and we are all patiently waiting! As are her and Tyler (and K!) So exciting!

It was was wonderful. All 15 of us squished around two tables in our dining room. That was a record for the most people to dinner in one place in our home. Lots of great memories that is for sure. I am looking forward to making new memories too!

Lately, I am falling asleep on the sofa. Waking up at 3 and crawling up to bed. My mega eye twitch is back with a vengeance. Dog tired. Only to listen to my husband snore in my ear. I am just thankful for all he does for us in our family. I know he is tired because he really works two jobs. His day job, and his responsibilities as a family man. I am truly blessed with an amazing husband! Thank you dear Cliff. Seriously, people always ask how I do it. His name is always at the top of that answer! I always say I couldn't do it without his love and support.

This morning was a morning of hell really. I had a very difficult morning getting the kids off to school. So, I let them go on their own. They did fine. I followed them just to make sure they made it. And, of course they did.

I made it up to the kids by picking up McDonald's for us for lunch. Mother of the year right here! LOL.

Happy Friday!

P.S. The items that have been placed around our home are still standing and are NOT being touched. We have turned a corner. Next milestone to meet, good bye diapers forever. Working on this one! Woot!

Whoa, they have let it ALONE!

2010-03-27T18:56:00.000-07:00

We have been slowly adding 'stuff' or decor to our home in the last week. Our house, void of very much. A shell really with just the walls and the deemed essentials around. A lot of our then precious items, broken from kids in the past. Sometimes hot tempers have broken stuff in our house. Thrown from the upstairs 'balcony' area. Smashing down onto the hard tile floors. So, we are hesitant to ever put anything out ever again.

However, life may be changing for us. It seems we just *may* be turning a corner on this one particular issue. We bought some tall, white, decorative breakable candle holders and candles. We put all three of them on our dining room table, and you know what nobody touched them, or moved them. Or pretended they were pirate swords. Or, picked at the tangerine coloured wax!

This is BIG!

So, we left them. I was actually going to put them away for night. Just to avoid any kids who may decide to touch them early in the morning when we are still getting ready upstairs. Little hands, little explorers. Wanting to touch everything around! This has been a MAJOR battle for us. We always seemed to lose this one.

So, they are still out. Three meals, and snacks later. They are still there. I think, we are having a shift in our household.

It brings delight within me, to be able to look around our home and enjoy pretty items. It makes my heart sing. Visual beauty, ahhhhhhhh. I am tired of living in a brown shell, much like a big brown box. I need colour, texture. Love. In our house, in our home.

Sounds I love.

2010-03-27T18:49:00.000-07:00

In the morning, Cliff and I are usually awoken by the sounds of our kids. Sometimes, we hear screaming, or fighting. Those mornings are rare, and startle us awake! Not so nice to be jolted awake and into action right away.

The mornings I love, are the very quiet mornings. When all of the kids are upstairs and talking. Or laughing. Or mega giggles. The beautiful quiet sounds. Where the kids are talking about stuff. Like how Mommy and Daddy bought a new lamp for the bedroom. And, how they like it. Or, how Carly takes Courtney out of her crib (yes, she is STILL in there and she still loves it!) and just brings her in to change her diaper on our floor. Cliff and I just lay there in bed, watching and listening to the two kids interact with each other.

I love the sounds of sweet laughter. So much laughter, that our cheeks hurt from smiling while listening to their conversations. Cliff and I, still tired, from of course lack of sleep most of the time. We love those mornings. The still quiet mornings.

Gratitude

2010-03-26T11:18:00.000-07:00

Today, I just wanted to say thank you. Thank you for my home, for my cozy bed. For my husband, for my beautiful kids. For my growing business. I realize in the craziness of life, I don't stop in to say thank you enough. I have so much to be thankful for. And yet, I don't feel like I have enough. Isn't that awful?! It is the truth.

Thank you for my eyes that see, for ears that hear. For a body that works. No matter about the flaws. It is time to start focussing in on more joy. More love, more acceptance of who I am, and what I want to accomplish. I want to live a BIG life. Not a little life. Life these days have felt little. So, I have to make changes! BIG changes to realize my dreams and goals. It isn't going to be easy, but I can do it.

I am feeling rather excited these days. I have so much to be grateful for and to.

I am thankful for good friends who stand by me, and support me.

I am thankful to parents who help out when we need help.

I am thankful to a certain cousin who always loves me, talks with me and makes me feel. And thankful for the treats she brings over. So much joy in our conversation!

I am thankful to friends old and new.

I am thankful to many speakers that have inspired me to keep working hard, and to be me. I can only be me. And, to believe in myself.

Thank you to those who love me. I know there are those who don't. I am OK with that. I have decided that I have to be true to me. If you do not like me, that is OK. I accept that. I cannot change who I am. I can only work hard at being better at the things I am not so good at.

I am am also thankful for a particular speaker at my local RR two weeks ago Sylvie Ruegger. Do you know who she is?! Well, in 1984 she ran for Canada in the very first women's marathon in Los Angeles. She ended up in 8th place. She felt she let Canada down by not placing with a gold, silver and bronze. What a HUGE weight to carry around.

I can relate to that feeling of letting people down. Failing. Sylvie's talk about her journey and struggles as an athlete. Her trials and tribulations. Got me all emotional. She stirred up deep feelings that I have been carrying around for a very long time. I actually started welling up with tears, and started quietly sobbing. To the point where I actually had to leave the room! I felt like a total loser breaking down and crying, but hey, it was like she got me, and that was a a good thing.

What I took away from her talk is that is OK to fail. It is OK! Her story was so powerful. She helped me to believe in me again. Never give up on your dreams. Even if the original dream becomes something differently entirely.

I am thankful to you my faithful readers of my blog. Changes are coming! Believe in the opportunities that are all around you. You may not recognize them as opportunity, but they are right there waiting for you. Take that leap and never look back!

This is how I am choosing to live. I choose not to live in fear anymore.

Never Give Up!
- Watch more Videos at Vodpod.

The Kissing Tree

2010-03-19T10:40:00.001-07:00

I found this kissing tree on a photographers website, and you can also make your own! For your and your hubby, or for your kids. Happy Friday! Just type in the link on the bottom of the tree. Isn't that sweet!! Awhhhhh.

Let it be.

2010-03-04T00:07:00.000-08:00

I have neglected my home blog once again. I can only spread myself so thin!

So, what has been going on. Let me say, what has NOT been going on!!

Making some big changes in our lives. REALLY big, and we are getting excited about it. Not ready to share, but you will all find out in the near future.

We are ready for big changes, and they bring a lot of excitement. For all of us!

I have spent my days running my business, running 4-5 days per week, doing home work, doing hair, doing laundry. Making snacks, cleaning up. Running errands and the usual grind.

Sad the Olympics are over, and miss watching events on TV. It was wicked awesome to watch all the spirit Canada had during the 17 days! We all had a lot of fun going downtown, and of course watching it all! I am so proud to be Canadian these days!

Our very first library/school library book was ripped up by Courtney today. This is the very first book in all of the school years. Six years! I feel bad for Carly, as it was her book. She wrote a little apology letter to her teacher, and we taped it up as best we could.

Cameron has his palate expander in his mouth. I crank that sucka once a day for him. I am proud of him for taking this on like a champ. We are also extremely proud of the FIVE A's he brought home on his report card! Go Cameron! He totally brought up his grades on his own! He said he would have one A this term!! Good job Mr!

Claire. She of course just turned nine last week. She was spoiled with a lot of new clothes, earrings, gift cards. All the things a girl of her age would want! She looks so grown up to me now! She totally has an interest in cooking, and baking. She knows all the ingredients for pancakes and helps make them with her Daddy. She recently sang with the school choir (Grade 3 district choir) who all sang 'Oh Canada' to the crowd at the torch ceremony in our town. She also sang with her choir at the school Olympics assembly. I was very proud to see her do that, and watching her grow so beautifully.

Carly, she is an excellent skipper! She also likes to wear her beautiful brown hair in two braids. She looks so cute and she is growing up so much! She likes to take care of herself. She is very complimentary to others, making them feel good. She also likes to dress in skirts and dresses. She also likes shoes. She is very helpful, and wants to make things good! She also has a huge love of horses and nature. And wants the world to be a good and clean place to live. My nature girl. Love her!

Catie, she is coming out of her shell at school. She got a '4' in skipping on her report card. That 4 means exceeds expectations. We were so proud to read that! She is also really digging reading! She really reminds me of how Cameron was when he was her age. She LOVES to learn. I am happy about that. She is so active, and jumps around all day. She is full of beans. She loves to balance, she is learning a few cheerleading moves and has them perfected. She says she wants to cheer. She also loves running!

Caroline. Miss Mae Mae. She has this gorgeous head of blonde curls, and this awesome brown eyes. She is miss casual. Prefers pants and track pants and runners. To skirts and dresses. She still talks very loudly, and makes sure she is heard! She has the most interesting conversations, and she does make us laugh. She is in that sneaky, going to raid the pantry phase like all of the others did at her age too. She LOVES her runners!

Courtney. She is two, and she sure show us that. She helps me start the laundry, she loves to help. She also is talking a whole lot more. When she smiles her eyes disappear and she giggles a lot these days! She is a joy to have in our lives. She still sucks her fingers, and grabs her ear. She still reaches for my chest for comfort. Breastfeeding ended AGES ago. She walks up and down the stairs easily, and now wants a pillow in her crib. She still is in her crib. (Thank goodness!!) And, hopefully diapers will be done by the time she turns three in November. Probably at that time, she will move into a bed. A big girl twin bed. Just like her sisters. She sure loves them all so very much!

Life is good. For the most part. I am thankful for many people, friends and family in my life. I wish that I could slow down a bit, and have a bit more fun, however that is not how it is right now. We are always flying by the seat of our pants. Running here and there, and everywhere. Not really any quiet moments, or times of rest. Most nights I am asleep on the couch until I can drag my tired but to bed. I don't think I have been in bed before the end of the day in years really.

I try my best to remain positive, and to keep strong. There are many things going against me at the moment, and I try my best to wade through and do my best. For, that is all I can do. I am sorry if there those out there who cannot understand how crazy my life is. I know there are those out there who do get it. Thank you. This means more than you know! I am thankful for those can accept me for who I am. I am only human, and do my absolute best. There are those out there who have totally let me down. Of course that saddens me, however I must keep moving on, moving forward. Pushing through. Conquering all that I have to do in the day, the week the month the year.

Anyways. I have been quiet on here, as I don't feel I have a lot to blog about. Really boring stuff in fact. One nice thing I have been enjoying lately is listening to all of the kids break into spontaneous rounds of 'Oh Canada.' That would have never happened before the Olympics. That makes me proud.

NINE, she is nine!

2010-02-24T07:30:00.001-08:00

Happy Birthday Claire! xo

Catie's first wiggly tooth

2010-02-22T14:36:00.000-08:00

The finger doing the pointing, is Claire's finger. She helped us find it!

Little Sisters {Best Friends Love Each Other}

2010-02-20T17:35:00.000-08:00

{Caroline, who walks around telling ups that best friends love each other, and Coco}

::BIG HUGS::

Caroline's shirt says LOVE.

Courtney wearing her big sister's boots. She doesn't mind that they are too big!

And Courtney, the baby. Ha ha.

I love the way the two of these girls gets along. I know Caroline is a great big sister, to her little sister Coco. They help each other out. Courtney helps her make her sister's bed. Caroline lets me know when her sister needs her diaper changed. Or, that she is hungry LOL.

I love the relationship that they both have. It is really neat to watch them grow up together, and I am happy I can watch this daily! I totally enjoy my morning when the four big kids are at school, and then it is just time for the three of of us together. I cherish this, because after the next school year, Caroline will move to full time K, and then the year right after that, she will too.

I will be alone in the house. In two more school years.

That will be weird for me.

My Baby Girl {Coco}

2010-02-20T17:22:00.000-08:00

I have been neglecting my blog, and going through my image folders, I decided to post a few images that I love. They are not technically perfect, or going to win any awards, but I love them. These are of my baby! I am ashamed to say, I cannot even remember how old Courntey is here, but she still has the same sucky fingers, and the same eyes. Next, I will post a couple from February.

I don't really even pull out my camera to take photos of my own family, and I hope they will forgive me when they see how lame their albums really are. Cameron of course, has the most. Courtney has about a quarter of a book. Boo, bad Momma I know. However, both Caroline and Courtney have complete blogs of my pregnancies of each of them! Oh how the times have changed!

I wish digital would have been there when Cameron was born in '99. I wish I would have blogged each and EVERY pregnancy and birth. However, the other four have total baby books. So, do Caroline and Courtney, but not as complete as I would like.

Having six kids, all of the memories and 'important details' begin to fade into a big old blog which is my brain these days!

All I know, is that my 'baby' is going to be three this Novemeber, and I cannot believe it! She is so fun and we enjoy everything more because she is the last.

Olympic Fever!

2010-02-11T12:01:00.000-08:00

Well, on Day 102 (Monday) the torch rolled into our town of Langley, BC Canada. We live an hour away from the City of Vancouver (Host to the Winter Olympics 2010) The last leg of the torch arrives in Vancouver tomorrow, and then the Opening Ceremonies. I also like to see that VAN2010 is a trending topic on Twitter! Yay!

Anyways, we watched the torch at the Langley Events Centre, and one of my daughters (our eldest) Claire sang as part of the official ceremony amongst other grade 3 classes in the area. Carly went with her class, and Cameron when to a different location and did the same thing. Cliff took the day off work to experience this (probably) once-in-a-lifetime experience together. I know our three little girls loved the excitement too! We all wore our official Hudson's Bay CANADA t-shirts. Cliff in black, me yellow. Kids all in the red.

I took photos and videos on my iphone, but I am not sure how to upload to blogger...so. Boring posts sans photos!

Here is a beautiful song sung by a local 15 year old! I Think she is pretty darn amazing!

Cheers! One more day to go! I am excited to see who lights the cauldron on the very last leg of the Olympics. I also wished I could see Jann Arden and Michael Buble run the leg of the race today I believe!

Here is one more song that I love too (and shows the sort of branding of the 2010 Olympics) And, I hope we get some snow on Cypress!! It is like Spring here this year!

Vancouver's wonderful well-known Sarah McLachlan. A beautiful song!

Super Saturday

2010-01-30T21:39:00.000-08:00

I realize my blog has been extremely boring, and just many words about puke. Well, I am happy to say that all is well. We are all WELL. Life is back to normal today.

I was at a most exciting photography workshop on Thursday in Vancouver. And it really opened my eyes, and the information, and knowledge I took from it. Amazing. The very night, I actually started implementing my plans. I started using that info to help my workflow.

So, that is a behind the scene look at the past week. It was full of lows, and a lot of highs too.

We are making many discoveries this week, and plan on making perhaps major change in our life. Just making sure our plan will work. Top secret right now.

Well, I got to go. Mom in Law just walked in with a boat load of scratch and wins! Time to see if we won something good!

Happy Saturday!

And now, my husband has it.

2010-01-29T00:23:00.001-08:00

Nuff said.

I had it too. Yesterday.

2010-01-27T11:56:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, all of the puke caught up with me. And I too puked. Just one, and really awful. Today, I am feeling on the mend.

Please puke. Please stop. I cannot have any more sickness around here.

Spoke too soon.

2010-01-25T19:31:00.000-08:00

And then, my big boy called me from school today. He said his tummy was not feeling good. So, I picked him up, and the two others a bit early. And yes, he did throw up. Poor guy. That is a second go-round for him too.

Now, that is all six that have had it. Be gone tummy bug. BE gone!

Normal again.

2010-01-25T10:37:00.000-08:00

Everybody is back to normal, like nothing ever happened around here. Except we washed about 6 extra loads of laundry this weekend. And A LOT of extra cleaning due to the germ factor. I woke up this morning, and thought how could this weekend be over already. I already want a weekend back!

Happy Monday!

Crackers and Apple Juice. And, Baked Potato Chips.

2010-01-24T16:42:00.000-08:00

Well, no more throw up/puke/vomit. Everybody seems to be recovering quite nicely.

I am very thankful for this! Tonight, chicken noodle soup for the troupes and some white bagel.

I love this!

2010-01-24T11:50:00.000-08:00

Shook me all night long...

2010-01-24T01:10:00.000-08:00

Well, now with Claire and Courtney now sick, that means all six of the kids have had this. Since before Christmas to now. Not a good way to end last year, and not a great way to start the year off.

The laundry has been chugging all night long. I cannot sleep. I just hope and pray Cliff and I stay healthy.

I am supposed to run tomorrow. I had dreams of going to bed early. Here it is 1:12 in the morning. I somehow think I will be rather sleep deprived again.

I hope they both feel better tomorrow. And, hopefully we can catch up on the insane amounts of laundry.

Wowser.

And two more

2010-01-24T00:10:00.000-08:00

Well, Claire got sick tonight, and then poor Courtney. Her very first time throwing up.

I feel so bad for them both. This will be all of us now, except for Cliff. He hardly pukes! How does he do it?!

I sure hope I don't get it. Especially because I kissed them all good night, and well, Courtney puts her fingers in my mouth.

Thursday

2010-01-21T08:27:00.001-08:00

Well, I thought Caroline was getting better, but she drank water this morning. And well, you can guess. She got sick again. Poor little girl. I hope today she starts feeling better.

This morning. there was a Michael Jackson marathon on Much, and the kids were listening and enjoying. Reminds me of when I was little! I LOVED his music. Still do actually. I have many of his songs in my ipod.

Well, the sun is out and we are off to school. I was hoping to walk #500in2010. But Caroline isn't up for a walk, so I guess we drive again. I will try for a run tomorrow evening.

I got to bed before 1:00 a.m. last night, and stayed in bed until 7:25 and I feel like a new woman. Seriously, I was getting a bit sleep deprived after the night before.

So, off to school we go!

Yesterday...

2010-01-20T10:37:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was one of my most awful days I would have to say. I bet if I looked back at my blog, I would find many other posts like that.

It was just a bad day. I don't think I would have won Mother of the Year award.

Now, we have more puke. Caroline this time. Needless to say, I am exhausted today. I have zero energy.

I am just thankful the sun is out, and it is a brand new day. I am hoping we are at the tail end of puke. So far since Christmas, it was me feeling brutal, Cameron, Carly. Catie, then Catie last week again. And now Caroline. Poor bubs.

She says...

2010-01-12T11:09:00.000-08:00

Caroline, up, open, locked. Catie. Buddy. And the usual Momma, Daddy. Nonna, Pappa. Nannie. Milk.

Daily the words are flying out of her mouth! Phew. We were starting to get a bit worried about Courtney. She is proving us wrong now! We knew you would.

So exciting!! She is growing and changing so much!

Wet, and now saying every word she knows over and over and over. So good! So happy.

New Year - New Decade! Welcome 2010~

2010-01-03T17:29:00.001-08:00

Self portrait of us, at the strike of midnight January 1st, 2010~

Wishing you all a happy new year!

2009 is almost over!

2009-12-31T17:33:00.000-08:00

So many changes in a year, and for sure in the past decade!

Worried about Y2K, survived.
Went from one to six kids; experienced five pregnancies this decade
Suffered one miscarriage
Breastfed for almost six years of this decade!
Lost a gallbladder
Lost my Pappa
Lost my Opa
Lost a Father-in-Law
Celebrated many first birthdays, and more.
Becoming a real Aunty, and then again!
Moved six times
Tried out many different jobs, Pampered Chef, babysitting, belly casting. Interior Decorating.
Found a job (or found my passion) in Photography!
Started running in the middle of the decade:
5 km
10 km
21.1 km
32 km
Put on the weight, took off the weight. Put on the weight.
Was on TV a couple of times.
Took a holiday to California. First plane ride since my early 20's.
Lost friendships, gained new friendships.
Changed MANY diapers for the past 10+ years straight!
Leaving this decade wishing for a Wii (for the fitness, and for the new dance one!) Looks like fun!
From a car, to a mini van, to a car. To another mini van, to another mini van to a 12 passenger van!

All in all, it is hard to believe just how fast 10 years goes by. If you were following my facebook status line today, you would had a bit more insight into the decade, and what is ahead for this family of eight!

All I know, is that next year will be the final year (or less) of diapers! So, by 2020. Almost a decade free of diapers, and I will have a 20 year old, 18 year old, 17 year old. 15 year old, 13 year old and a 12 year old. Cliff and I will be getting ready to celebrate our 23rd anniversary that will arrive May 9 the following year! Crazy!

Happy New Year! All the best!

Cheers!

Cathy xo

2009 almost time!

2009-12-30T13:23:00.000-08:00

Seriously, this is the best group shot we could get LOL.

Caroline, and her new headband.

Cameron with all of his Pokemon stuff.

What Santa left behind.

Claire.

Caroline going through her stocking. She is happy about her Cinderella Pez.

Cameron helping his sis.

The tree, and all of the goodies.

Carly and her horse stuff!

Catie, and her cheerleader CPK.

Woah! How did 2009 get away on me like this? We had some sickness for Christmas this year. I felt great waking up on Christmas, had my usually yummy Christmas breakfast and then, after the gift opening started to feel really sick. Like I was going to throw up any minute. That feeling lasted pretty much all day, and night. Leaving me the following morning on boxing day. However, two of the kids threw up Christmas night, and early boxing day. Thankfully, it didn't spread or last. Everybody survived!

I have some photos, but unfortunately I dropped our newish point and shoot and broke it. Bummer!

So, off we will go to find a new camera again. I am just thankful I didn't break my 'good' camera. That would have been bad.

I also came up with a song and dance routine for the kids. It was filmed/recorded/photographed. But I don't think by us? I will ask around. It was a lot of fun, and the guests liked it!

The Christmas stuff is already boxed up, and the tree on the front lawn (I am not kidding you!) Cliff dropped it there LOL. I promise he will not leave it there. Just until tree chipping time on Saturday.

I am going to post another video. It was pretty cool. The kids were totally happy with only their stockings. They didn't even think about the tree gifts/Santa's gift. It was cool! I also forgot to mention, on the white sideboard there is a stack of presents there, and they were 'group gifts' for the six. They didn't even ask to open them, so on the 27th they each opened a present!

cheers!

2009-12-24T18:13:00.000-08:00

{click on image to view}

Happy Holidays and Merry Christmas!

2009-12-24T11:03:00.000-08:00

From our house to yours, wishing you and your families a very merry Christmas, and all the best for 2010!

Cheers!

Cathy, Cliff and the 6 C's

Happy about Hudson [ meet our new handsome nephew ]

2009-12-20T00:35:00.000-08:00

Baby love...smitten.

SO proud of you Apes.

Abby playing with her 'Big Sister' gift from us.

Cameron hanging with Abby.

Aunty April, Uncle Nick and Abby's place has fun stuff to play with!

Claire and Hudson.

Catie and Hudson.

My middle sis April, BIL Nick and big sister Abby have a brand new baby named Hudson. He was born a couple of weeks early, on December 11th. The very next day, we drove out to meet the newest family member. It was nice to have snuggles with such a small baby. I have to say, holding him, made my ovaries ache, and they haven't stopped. Love new babies, but I am starting to like my sleep at night. And excited that we are under one year away from now more DIAPERS!! So, being an Aunty is wonderful. I look forward to doing it again in April when my little sis has her very first baby!! Yay!

Hudson. He is awesome, and it was nice to snuggle in with a sweet baby. So proud of you Apes, and welcome to the world little man.

Congrats to you all. Cannot wait to snuggle again on Boxing Day.

Christmas Cheer!

2009-12-19T23:34:00.000-08:00

A couple of not so great photos of the kids. I think they are pretty funny. No cooperation what-so-ever. WHATEVER. LOL. (Be sure to click on the images to see the full effect LOL)

You can read their faces and body language really well. They had a great day that day anyways. A brunch out, Santa and a magician. Awesome.

I heard this on the radio this morning, and I knew I had to post it!

Memories, right!!

Cheers!

Cathy

Courtney's 2nd Birthday Party (Better late than never right?!)

2009-12-02T12:28:00.001-08:00

Here she is, she grabbed the Mini Mouse in the pink car and started eating the icing off the bottom of the car! She loved it!

Here is most of the group I would say! I think it is time for a larger dining room and dining room table! Whew. Just all squeezed in!

The kids' cake...actually cupcakes underneath.

For the adults (when you turn two, you need two cakes of course!!)

The kids crowding around Courtney. Trying to 'help' her!

Thanks to Cameron for taking the birthday photos for us. I am happy he loves taking photos for us! We were sorry April (the belly), Nick and Abby couldn't make it. xo

I LOVE YOU!

2009-12-01T09:12:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, my littlest darling Courtney said "I LOVE YOU" to me. It melted my heart!

Of all the words she could have said, these ones...are the best.

She doesn't do a lot of talking, she sucks her fingers and grunts. She gets her way, her way.

After a not so good morning, that was amazing.

I love you too Courtney xo

Crashed...Zonked....

2009-11-30T11:04:00.000-08:00

This is how Courtney likes to fall asleep. Usually right beside me. This is her as her first evening of being 2.

Before her birthday (so still one!) of where she likes to sleep!

She is a funny little girl! Makes us laugh daily!

The last time...

2009-11-15T09:58:00.000-08:00

Today, is the very last time I will ever have a one year old on my very own. I woke up this morning feeling really strange about it. I think this bothers me a lot. Cliff plopped her into bed this morning, and we snuggled and cuddled. I wonder just how many more mornings she will want to do this? Every morning it is less and less. I cherish every little snuggle I I can get with her. I know she will always be my baby, but when she is older I know this won't happen.

Tomorrow my baby girl turns TWO. Although I am very happy she is growing, and healthy it is very sad at the same time.

Tomorrow, at 5:34 p.m. we officially have a two year old. Our last two year old. Oh, I cannot wait to see what the next year brings!

Love you Courtney. xo

A is for Apple

2009-11-03T13:54:00.000-08:00

We took a family trip to the Apple Barn in Abbotsford. Thanksgiving weekend. The weather was good. But cold. I had to borrow Cliff's sweatshirt.

The kids in the orchard picking a big 25 pound bag of apples. Some went straight into our stomach. Some went into two apple crisps for Thanksgiving dinner two days later.

Courtney liked this little pumpkin. She is my little pumpkin.

Cliff putting back pumpkins with the kids. The apple picking was down the road. Down a steep road which we walked! When we were there last, we only had four kids I think. OK, nope. Make that five. Oops!

Here are photos from the last time we went in 2006!

Cameron

Claire (I wish this wasn't blurry darn it)

Catie

Carly

Courtney eating a big huge tasty apple!

Miss Caroline

Cliff with the kids (well five of them, Carly didn't want her photo taken)

Big sister, and little sister together.

All of the kids running to find more apples

The kids with me (and me in Cliff's warm hoodie!!)

Let's try again (OK still didn't work LOL - Not looking, and Carly is atleast in behind this time LOL)

(be sure to click on the images to see them bigger)

P.S. All taken on a point and shoot. I have to be sure to take the time to photograph the kids and not try to get the best shots and then edit. Snapshots just for the memories here!

The Halloween Candy Count

2009-11-03T11:05:00.000-08:00

So, we did our sorting and counting on Sunday afternoon. After taking down all of our spooky stuff. We actually started to put up our Christmas lights. They are not ON, but we are getting there!

(Click on the images to make them larger!)

The six kids and their bags of candy. Cameron didn't really T or T this year. Courtney, hardly got any treats in her bag. She was in her stroller most of the night.

Here is what is left after eating some on Halloween and the following day. 366 pieces of loot is a lot of stuff! Look at it all!

And the sorting begins!

They had some treats after the learning lesson LOL

Counting by fives here. We did 1's, 2',s 3's and 4's too. It was fun this way!

Top 3:

Smarties - 37

Coffee Crisp - 32

Hershey - 20

And a few odd ball pieces. 7 to be exact. Like a few gum balls, and candy burgers etc.

I couldn't believe all of the FULL size treats the kids received as well.

What is my favourite halloween treat? That would have to be a Mars bar. We received 7 in total. 3 small, and 4 full size.

So there it was! It was good to do. Now, we have been sending treats with Cliff to the office. We certainly don't need all of it. Six of the bags now into two bags. And the bags were heavy. We weighed the treats as well. 15 pounds worth of treats collected. 2.5 pounds not handed out. Wowser!!

Happy November!

I cannot believe that November is here, and soon my baby girl turns two. In less than two weeks! Where did those two years go? Really! Time moves too quickly!

Good Morning!

2009-11-01T06:50:00.001-08:00

Claire's pumkin! Her design and help carving with Cliff (and Grandpa's old chisel set)

Cameron, and his design. I love how they are developing their skills and excitement for the season.

My crew!

Do not feel sad for the little girl in red. She was crying for more candy! You can see the stick in her right hand. She stopped when we fed her more LOL.

Here they are again.

Here you can get a peek at the decorating! It looks quite natural as the evening before we had high gusts of wind that blew our power out for almost 7 hours.

Halloween 2009

With this whole FALL BACK business means we are up bright and early around here. I prefer to SPRING FORWARD so that we can wake up at a better time. The kids were all up before 6:30 this morning instead of 7:30 on the weekends. I wish kids understood they could wake up 1 hour later.

Halloween was a lot of fun! We did our block, and then we drove to my parents house to surprise them with our six trick or treaters. It was nice. Then we came home around 8:30 p.m. and plunked them all in bed.

With six kids, there is A LOT of candy. Six bags of candy. So, I thought we would blog about that later. I will take a photo of all of the bags, and then we thought we would pile it all together take a photo, and then chart it all. See what we got the most of, and then the least of. And learn a bit while having the treats. And of course, Cliff and I will have to 'test' out the candy and treats to make sure they are safe.

So, time to go give the kids breakfast, but I will be back.

P.S. I hope my MOM posts some photos from last night with all the kids. I regret not taking one of all of the kids with my parents Duh.

Night before Halloween!

2009-10-30T10:16:00.000-07:00

Well, here it is, the 30th of October already. Rainy, cold wet. I truthfully do not enjoy this season very much. I like it until it rains. I don't really like the rain. Well, DOWN POUR I don't like. The drizzle is OK. I cannot believe that I went to the Madonna concert one year ago already! Where did THAT year go?

All of the costumes are ready for the kids. Last night. Yes! Now, we just need to carve the pumpkins. Probably tomorrow morning. Maybe even tonight. We will see how crazy it gets. We are only carving three this year. Eight pumpkins a bit too much as we discovered last year.

Cameron - Hunchback

Claire - Alex Russo from "The Wizards of Waverly Place"

Carly - Mother Nature

Catie - Little Red Riding Hood

Caroline - Blue Fairy

Courtney - 'lil Devil (so cute)

I have to talk about the cost of these costumes. I spent for sure under $90 dollars.

Last night, I went to the fabric store because the 'cape' was missing from Catie's costume. I got her costume for only $7 dollars! I purchased four costumes new and all at half price. The fabric for the cape, I got for $3.10 and a large round button for $2.00! And, I walked in A HA! There was what I needed. Thankfully, because I didn't want to walk around for costumes for more than a minute.

Thankfully my Mom in Law sews and so from that fabric, she was actually able to make TWO capes LAST NIGHT. One for Catie, and one for Courtney. SO cute!

Today, Cameron dressed up in his costume. A stuffed backpack, and his old painting smock from Kindergarten!

Claire and Carly went in orange and black shirts from last year. I gave them pig tails and tied pretty orange ribbons over the elastics.

Catie, I dressed her up as this is her year of 'firsts' in Kindergarten. So, she had her basket, her ensemble, and her red lipstick. She looked so sweet and LITTLE! Perfect! She had her first playdate this week with girls from her class. And, today a very first school party. She is enjoying it so much! I know she gets to parade around the school to the bigger kids' classes. So, I guess she will go see Cameron, Claire and Carly. I love that!

Caroline. Not dressed up, but pig tails like her big sisters.

Courtney. As herself today. With a 'waterfall' in her hair.

Oh, and I got some candy treats to hand out tomorrow. I don't think Cameron wants to go trick or treating tomorrow? He is only 10! Let me see if he changes his mind when his sisters all go out.

I will take some photos of the front door tomorrow. The kids did it all this year and I LOVE it! We bought a blow up cat (not scary at all) and some orange lights. I love that they LOVE to help us out!

You might get scared...

2009-10-25T00:30:00.001-07:00

But honey! I don't want to blend in with everybody else!

OK, this looks too real and freaky even for me!

OK, I'm a trouper!

Somebody needs some dental work and botox...and a lift!

Cheers to us honey! Yikes!

Tonight, we had some shopping to do, and we got a bit silly with each other. We were laughing, and taking photos of each other.

Enjoy!

A couple more from California

2009-10-10T19:34:00.000-07:00

So, just a fun little fact, when I was shooting at the Jessica Claire workshop...the 'wedding' location was just across the street at a sweet little park...right across the street from The Real Housewives of Orange County!! This is their gated community! We drove up, but this is as close as we could get!

Some of the very neat Candy Corn in 'Candy Corn Acres' in the California Adventure park. I thought this was so festive and beautiful!

And of course, Cliff couldn't help but get a photo of this...this was also in the California Adventure side. It was really hot! But we loved it so much!

From my Birthday

2009-10-10T19:32:00.001-07:00

P.S. I know one child is missing. She didn't want to be in the photos...and just you wait until I share the Apple Barn photos. Same story...LOL

38

2009-10-08T09:16:00.000-07:00

Well, it happened. I turned 38 yesterday. I had a good day! I had my cousin Andrea over, and her sweet little man Evan over. She brought Starbucks for us. I made a sandwich for us all. She also brought me some gorgeous fall flowers. I am thankful her and my relationship. Although we are cousins, I feel that she is my older sister by 11 months. I just love her, and all that we can talk about. Sharing our true feelings and bouncing stuff off of one another. Truly a relationship that I love and cherish. My kids had a card for me, Cliff brought me flowers and a card.

I was actually able to get out for dinner with my Dad, Mom, Granny, The M family and Amy and Tyler. And, I took Cameron. Who totally deserved a night away. He has been working very hard at school this year, and I am so proud of him. So, he got to come along. Before we left, I blew out my 13 candles on my cake (thankfully not 38!) and then I served the cake to my kids. Had a lovely dinner, and of course cake for the 'triplets' which if you don't know are my Dad, myself and my Sister. We share the very same day. I love it!

After dinner, and some goodbyes. We headed to Best Buy to pick an iPhone up for me. So, thank you Cliff for my birthday gift! I just love it and now trying hard to learn it all! So far so good! I picked white, to match my MacBook. Yay!

So with turning 38, I am trying to get used to it. I find it takes a while to grow into that number. Especially now that the big 40 is only two years away for me now.

This morning I felt exhausted, my hips have been aching. I am tired, as per usual I fell asleep on the couch exhausted. When I woke up off the couch, our littlest one was already in our bed. Asleep. So, I had an extra bed mate as well. She is adorable to cuddle, and now that she has the next birthday in our house (2) in November I take it where I can get it. I just love that little girl so much. She is my baby after all.

I will not lie, at times I think we have made a mistake by not having more kids. People can poo poo that statement all they want, but it is my blog :D

But, I am happy with my family. Just extra sad realizing that that 'baby' stage is leaving my house. And I am growing older. But, hey! Two more babies entering the family in December and April! So, hopefully holding that wee baby will give me peace. Or make me feel like I need to have more.

Today, I am dreading a meeting with a teacher. One of my older daughters has been stealing...so....I feel like I am in trouble. And my children are a reflection of Cliff and I so, of course that hurts. And, I wish that I didn't have to go. But hey, this is what motherhood is all about! So...

Also, I have been sad over friendships lately. What I thought to be friendships, seemingly over. Very sad. I read a lovely quote and this is what it said:

"friends are like stars, they come and they go but the ones that stay are the ones that glow"

So, for weeks I have this bad sense of uncomfortable-ness. This un-easiness that follows me around. In person, online and in other friendships that inter-twine. And truthfully this is hurting me quite deeply. But, I guess I move on from here. And stick with the friends "that glow!"

I will continue to be me, and just be the best me I can be. And, if that is not good enough then I guess they were not really my true friends now were they? So, in chatting with others who have been in this situation I know what I have to do. Where I have to go. It sucks, but this is life.

I don't want this part of life to feel like I am in a catty high school drama! Time to move on! Time to connect with true friends. So, I guess I have to press the delete button. So hard to do! I have spent too much emotional energy on this. I need to focus that energy elsewhere!

So, today I let them go.

Thank you to my dear friends who remain, and stand by me and love me. I am so thankful for you all.

This weekend we celebrate our Thanksgiving with all of our family. The WHOLE family! It is going to be a bit hectic, and very loud. But this is what life is made of! Memories! Thank you Granny for having us ALL over to your place.

I am thankful for so much in my life. Thank you all for listening to me today.

Cathy xo

A week in photos...

2009-10-01T13:12:00.001-07:00

. Can you believe this is a mall? There was a carousel and and a ferris wheel at this mall. It was called Irvine Spectrum. I have more photos of this mall if you want to see them. Let me know in the comments.

After the workshop, and a special lunch with another photographer (someone I very much admire and look up to) we headed on the big old I5 towards Anaheim. To check into our next hotel (which was across from Disneyland and California Adventure Park) A nice lady offered to take our photo together which was great! We also went into the second largest Disney store in the world. Conveniently located in Downtown Disney!

A glimpe of what the I5 looked like. Most times, eight lanes across...sometimes MORE!

I just love all of the different types of palm trees. Some tall, some small. Some skinny, some wide. Just like people...

One of just me, of course in a C. I look forward to having a photo here with all of my C's!

A quick glimpse on our GPS on just how crazy the lanes were!

I was able to FINALLY meet up with my friend Michele. She lives in San Diego. We have been chatting online for over six years. When we were pregnant with our "September Stars" on babycenter.com (She is also a photographer and she has been a great mentor to me) and it was one of the best evenings I have had in a long time. We felt as if we have known each other foerever. Almost like sisters! Or something like that. It was a connection I just cannot explain! Cliff came along for dinner too, and we sat in California Pizza Kitchen (oh so yummy!) for almost three hours talking away. We had some nice California wine there too. Much love to you Michele! I am so glad we finally could meet! xo

A view of our first hotel in Mission Viejo (a community that we are both in love with! Much like Osoyoos just a lot larger!)

When I was at my all day wedding workshop, Cliff stayed here. And enjoyed the California sunshine. They were having a heatwave when we were there! Amazing!

OK, so I am not so good at posing myself LOL

And outside of the Pirates of the Carribean at Disneyland. We thought of our kids.

Top back left, Cliff and I on the "California Screamin'" I got Cliff on here, and finally he decided he loved rollercoasters! YES!!

Me on the backlot in California Adventure Park. Before riding the "Tower of Terror" one of our new faves.

Thank you to the kindness of strangers who took a photo of us together!

And, a photo with MM!

(Mickey was busy somewhere else!)

Do you want more? :D

Cathy xo

Fall is in the Air

2009-10-01T12:32:00.000-07:00

OK, every child has a photo like this right? Courtney enjoying her pasta dinner. Actually is the one meal that EVERYBODY in the whole family enjoys and is easy to make. The benefit sitting down and talking about our busy days with everybody. We go around the table and ask what the best part of the day was, and the worst part of the day. Keeping those lines of communication open. And staying in touch with the kids. We look forward to this part of our day. When we can all be together. And, we are totally out-growing our tables/benches. Time to get a new table I think! We barely fit!

Catie's first day of Kindergarten (same day she turned 5!)

Find your name Catie! (Can you see her little wee hand?)

A couple of sisters...Catie 5 and Caroline 3. (and Julep the monkey)

Wow, October 1st and time is flying by. We had a good start with September and all of the kids going back to school. And one, starting Kindergarten. Catie had a bit of a rough start. She was a bit nervous, but she is doing well now! I am happy for her.

My days are quiet with 2 or 3 in the house. I am enjoying that time. It is way easier to keep up with my workload that comes with having six kids!

I just got back on Sunday from a week long holiday to California. One part wedding photography workshop with Jessica Claire (a wedding photographer that I just look up to and love!) who is rated in the top 10 ten in the World! I had been saving up so that we could go together. One more dream realized for Cliff and I!

Second part fun fun fun! That fun happened in Disneyland for three days! Thank you to my Mom in Law who took a week off work to care for the kids. And thank you to my parentals who took the kids out a couple of times to give my Mom in Law a break. It was a much needed break, and time alone to be just "Cathy and Cliff" instead of "Mom and Dad" it was time to have that after no trips or flying since our honeymoon in 1998. I really loved being away, as I just love California and really think I should be a California girl. Come on Cliff, get a job at Disneyland! Oooh the perks LOL.

As for running...and all of that good stuff. Well, I am not running. I am still experiencing hip pain on a daily basis. I walk a lot these days with school drop offs and pick ups. But that is only a measly 3 kms a day. Not enough for my liking! I have put back on a lot of my weight, which really bums me out. So, in true form I am embracing the me that I am today. I bought some new clothes and just saying OK, this is me. Deal with it :D

I have a birthday coming up, and that means my Dad and my little sis get one year older as well. I love sharing my birthday with them both. And of course, once our birthdays are done. That means Thanksgiving dinner! This year the WHOLE family gets together at my Grannie's house. I look forward to doing this, and catching up with the family. Apparently it was 5 years ago since we did this. Catie was weeks old! So, yay!

I love family get-togethers! So much love in the room! It is wonderful. It also means tummy rubs to both of my sisters. Both expecting babies! One due in December, and one due in April!
So exciting!

That means that my little Coco will be celebrating her second birthday next month. I'd better start planning! It is so fun to watch her grow up! She is fun and is full of energy! The sad part. No more babies in our house. That still makes me sad! Get over it right!

Life moves on, and I am thankful and blessed. I have a happy life. A great and supportive husband and six very happy and healthy kids.
Life is good.

[pictures of Disneyland and my vacation to follow on a separate post--and all the kids got from California were stupid t-shirts, some Mickey Mouse suckers and some taffy and they were HAPPY!]

Happy Fall! I hope you do not grow webbed feet in all this rain!

I know I am California Dreamin...I cannot wait to go back with all the kids!

Cathy xo

Osoyoos August 2009

2009-09-14T14:42:00.000-07:00

Caroline on the dock. The other kids fishing at the end of the dock.

Cameron got to try kneeboarding with his new friend Z! Very exciting for him. Almost all of our kids got a ride in the boat. Maybe next August Courtney!

Courtney and I hanging on the dock.

Cameron and Z getting ready to go kneeboarding.

Sleep little bubba sleep. And she did, with her hands wrapped around my neck.

A few of the many sand toys we had! So much fun!

It looks like Cliff is in pain or something, but he was not. He was just rubbing his face LOL. A rare shot of 7 of the family together.

Courtney trying on the mask.

Cameron loved his air mattress. He loves the water!

Playing in the water as a family of eight.

Made new friends! Z and A.

Tried fishing (a lot!) A couple of fish got away!

Goofing off in town!

My shadow. Look at that gorgeous lake water!

We have been fortunate to have had three visits to the Okanagan this summer. At the beginning, near the end of August for a week. And this past weekend.

Things that I love about this summer:

The kids are awesome travellers.

We can have a lot of fun, for not much $$. Being together is amazing.

I love to watch the kids grow up, and help each other out.

We could survive in a two bedroom, two bathroom place and still be happy together.

Love goes a long way.

In fact, I think this has been our best summer EVER! Making up for all of the years without a vacation of any sort. Last time we went away was when Catie as 10 months old. And Cameron was going into Kindergarten. This time, Catie heading into Kindergarten. Cameron into grade five.

I am actually sad that summer is over this year. It was amazing!

Until next year! We cannot wait to get back.

Long time, no blog.

2009-09-14T14:28:00.000-07:00

First day of school for four out of six. Time to lose the big stoller, and find a single just for Courtney.

The happy birthday poster the kids made for Cliff for his birthday.

A quiet little birthday party for Cliff.

Cupcakes for Carly's birthday. She picked each kind for each guest.

Carly is 7!

Hello again, since I last blogged we have been away on holidays, and celebrated a few birthdays. The kids are back in school. We have one in grade 5, 3,2 and K. So far, so good.

I sliced my finger open on a tuna can, and required a couple of stitches. And, last night we had stuff stolen out of our van. Not only our van, but many vehicles in our area. Last count I heard 13! So sad this is happening in our own backyard. Reminder to all: Keep your vehicles locked, and don't keep your valuables inside!

I still need to download Catie's birthday photos to share! Plus photos from our holidays!

I shouldn't make dinner anymore

2009-09-04T09:37:00.001-07:00

I was making a tuna casserole last night, and I sliced my finger open on the can as I was using a fork to get the tuna out of the can. I had two stitches put into my finger. I also had a tetanus shot. It made me think back to sewing class in Grade 9, when I had my last tetanus shot. I remember the ache. But, the finger hurts more so it all balances out LOL.

A few for now...

2009-09-02T18:17:00.001-07:00

This is a cup full of dirt, that I dropped in the house. Don't ask. I was trying to bring it to the kitchen, and I dropped it. Mud went from floor to the ceiling. This is mid summer.

This is from last week. We were in Osoyoos for a week. You can just see Caroline and Catie. And I think Cameron at the edge of the dock. We love it there!

Another view of the lake. Cameron did some knee boarding behind the white and red boat. (More photos to come--these are only off my camera phone)

And this has to be my fave of the summer. Courtney, sleeping on the bench.

More to come. Like Carly's TWO birthday parties. Her first one was very quiet and lonely. So, we had another one last night. I have photos from both on my new point and shoot. Need to take them off my camera.

And, we have Cliff's birthday coming up in less than a week, and Catie's turning 5 in one week. On her very first day of Kindergarten. Exciting times!

Seven Bumps - Last night as a six year old.

2009-08-18T20:52:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow my CarlyFlower turns seven! It is hard to believe that my girl is growing up so fast! We plan on having some cake with the G-Parents around dinner time!

She has been fun to watch grow up! I just love her so much! Sleep well six year old.

Looking forward to spending the afternoon with you.

Mommy xo

Cameron - 10

2009-08-06T11:53:00.000-07:00

Thank you to my Mom who took most of the images here (I borrowed her camera for a few!) We had a great birthday for Cameron. He requested Lemon Meringue pie, and 10 cupcakes around the edge for his sisters. He is so funny. (Oh and the extras were all polished off very quickly! We had a bit of coffee, and some San Pellegrino water with lemon too. It was HOT outside! I love how we all love lemon stuff! When Cameron was a baby we gave him a piece of lemon and he LOVED it!

My Mom, Dad and Mom in Law and of course our kids. And Cliff and I were also there :D

We had a great day! Nice to have his bday on the long weekend! He is going to love that. My next thought! My goodness! Three more years until he is officially a teenager!

Double Digits

2009-08-02T21:22:00.000-07:00

Cameron, 5 ish and in Kindergarten January 2004

Claire about 18 months, Carly, weeks old and Cameron, just three.

(Claire 2 ish Carly under 1 year and Cameron, 4 back in '03)

I remember waiting to turn from age nine to age ten. The DOUBLE DIGITS! It seems just like yesterday! And now, I am 37 turning 38 in about two months.

Tonight, when the clock strikes at midnight, my first born and only son, turns TEN.

I officially have been parenting for a DECADE. That strikes me in a crazy type of way! Ten. My baby boy is turning ten! How can this be?

This is just huge to me. Today, we took Cameron, his best friend Jennifer, Claire and Carly to Playland for a day of rides, games, fun and food. While I was there, I remembered back to the crazy time of when he was about two weeks old. I was a new Mom, newly married. Pretty much still in the newlywed phase of our life.The crazy sleepless phase of the newborn stage, the postpartum stage. We decided lets go to the PNE! I fed him, layed him down in his crib for his sleep. And the next second...a huge pukey spit up in the crib, all over him. Also onto the carpet. OK, this isn't going the way we "planned" so I took the bedding off, threw it in the wash. Bathed Cameron and got him into yet another outfit. We packed all of his stuff. All of the stuff you need with a newborn. You know, everything but the kitchen sink ;D

So, later than our intended departure to a destination about 45 minutes away we were packed up and in the car. We headed to the fair. Of course, a diaper change once we got there. Don't you know I changed his diaper every 1.5 hours!! LOL. We walked him around in his stroller, we took him to the Super Dogs (my goodness that was too loud for his little ears, and he slept through all the noise and excitement!) and I breastfed him in PUBLIC. That was an ordeal for me being a new Mom. We made new family memories for our family of three. We had Cliff's parents join us down there. They walked him around, and Cliff and I rode some of the rides like the "good old days." I remember how tiny his head was, how warm he was. How wonderful he smelled. All dressed in the finest baby blue outfits. He was such a good baby. I remember walking around the proud. Proud to be a Mom. Proud of my little family. It was a good good day. One I will always remember.

Today, almost 10 years later we went without diapers, without a stroller. Without all the crazy stuff. And just headed down there. We packed some water, and some wipes. I am glad I brought them that is for sure! I bring those EVERYWHERE still. (Thank you to Nonna who kept the three littles at home!)

The kids went on rides by themselves. We did rides together. At one point Cliff and I were about to go on the Pirate Ship for the fourth or eight time, and I saw Cameron and Jennifer HOLDING hands. I nudged at Cliff. I said oh my goodness! This is ONLY the beginning. So much change in the past 1o years.

We REALLY enjoyed the day today. It was just wonderful to see the smiles, the laughter. The cooperation. Spending time together. I am sure when we went ten years ago we talked about what it would be like to visit with him and go on the rides. But I know we were tired. I remember feeling exhausted! Just like today. Just a day full of wonderful memories that were different all together. But just like almost 10 years ago. But different. I liked the different!

So to my dear Cameron. You are one of the most important men in my life. You have been such a blessing to me. To all of us. When I was pregnant with you. I thought you were a girl. Boy oh boy was I WRONG! I am so glad you were a boy. I have had the MOST wonderful decade getting to know you. This year you head into grade five. And just loving all of your wonderful ways!

Sleep well nine year old. Tomorrow we celebrate!

I am excited to find out what the next decade will bring. I cannot believe that in only seven years you will graduate. Carly turns seven in a couple of weeks and that has gone by in a flash! So I know it is going to be very exciting in the next decade too!

Much love,

Your Mom xo

Hottest Day of the YEAR!

2009-07-28T16:05:00.000-07:00

Here in our town, we are experiencing a heatwave. It hasn't been this hot for a VERY long time. I think were are at 37 degrees or so.

On went the bathing suits, and the sprinkler. Played with ice cubes, and ate freezies and strawberries trying to stay cool. I am melting today!

Happy Summer!

Cathy xo

End of June (better late than never) Holiday

2009-07-26T21:45:00.000-07:00

See, I was there. Where my computer is...I am. Not a one photo taken of me on this holiday.

Here are 5/6 kids Catie was with Nonna. Forever washing off sand from the bottom of their feet.

Catie loved the sand!

Cameron swam out to the dock and back on his own! He sure is growing up!

Caroline kept a perma-smile on the whole weekend. Can you see the beautiful desert landscape of Osoyoos, BC. It is AMAZING there!

Cameron

Claire

Carly

Catie

Caroline

Coco

At the end of June all 9 of us (yes Mom-in-Law included) headed to Osoyoos for the weekend. It was to honour/remember the one year of dear Dad's passing (June 27th, 2008) so we had a great weekend. I finally got around to working on the files. Today! Doing this has made me decide I need a wee little point and shoot camera for family events. I don't feel like taking photos with my camera on holidays. I just want snap shots that I do not have to edit. No perfection. Just our family photos.

Anyways, here are a few. I took maybe 40 photos total. That has got to change. So, for our week there August I will change my ways :D

Friday again!

2009-07-24T17:12:00.001-07:00

Caroline

Catie

Cameron, and the two little gals. At the waterpark!

On Wednesday they went there for some sliding action! (So did Kristy and her family ;D )

Active Catie!

This week was busy for a bit, and then not so busy. Why you ask? Well it had to do with the fact that my sister Amy, and her husband Tyler (and his daughter K) took the kids up to Cultas Lake on a camping adventure. They left Sunday afternoon (K slept over on Saturday night after the Stampede style BBQ.) And then in the morning Amy and T drove back to pick up the kids! For Cameron, it was his second time, and for Catie and Caroline...their very first trip! So, therefore when Claire and Carly were in summer school. I just had Courtney around. For a couple of those days I went to my parents house to hang out. They spoiled me, made me breakfast and lunch. Talked and talked and talked. The kids were gone from Sunday to Thursday. Half the laundry, half the clean up! So nice! I am so greatful to Amy and Tyler for giving us a break, and for also giving the kids some wonderful new experiences and adventures. Love you all!

Who took the photos? Well my friend Kristy took them. She was camping too at the same time and place and she found my sister, and T and said hi! Of course she knows the kids from school too! Thanks Kristy! Amy, I look forward to seeing your photos too!

So all and all a good week. Got a few extra things done around the house. I was able to talk on the phone easily. Work on my computer etc.

Yesterday, the campers arrived back home! Just in time for a pick up at summer school. So, in went the carseats and away we went. A family of eight again. As much as I loved the time, space and quiet. It REALLY missed my other kids. I am rarely away from them. So I felt complete again!

Today, a "free" day we drove into Abby to visit Cliff. We all had lunch. And now, the weekend is upon us!

Happy Friday!

Cathy

Friday Phew!

2009-07-17T09:11:00.000-07:00

This is after the immunization appointments for Catie (Kindergarten shots) and Courtney.

This is Courtney's first visit to the "candy drawer" and she was a happy camper.

Catie got two, because hers was a sore one.

Caroline got one too. Our family doctor is so great!

Catie, and her pop.

I survived (well almost) it is still early on Friday.

This week was filled with lots of driving. Driving my gas guzzling 12 passenger van. Monday, was summer school for two, back and forth. Back and forth. Tuesday, I had to have Cliff take the day off so we could get all of our stuff done! It was an especially crazy day! Summer school for one, a very intensive RCMP Jr. Cadet camp for two, and immunization shots for two. Catie and Courtney. Catie cried, Courtney didn't cry for the first needle, but cried for the second one. Then drop off and pick ups all day. Same with Wednesday, and then Thursday. Plus a "Graduation" for Cameron and Claire. Cliff stayed back with the others. Thankfully, because it was long and warm in the gym. And on my way home from the grad, my check engine light came on. Remember my fiasco with no van large enough for the kids? I am a wee bit concerned. So, this morning, a more quiet day (if that is possible with six kids at home?) laundry (a given) and a drive with my six to the dealership to hopefully figure out what is going on with our van. Monday, school is back in, and I need to be able to drive them all back and forth! Unfortunately to place both girls in the same school. Claire in Reading and Rec, and Carly is in Numbers 'til Noon. We could only pick a school about 15 minutes away by drive.

Driving all of this week, I was thankful for an air conditioned van. And thankful that for the regular school year, we are able to walk. I feel better about that. Being able to walk. I realize I do not like the driving so much.

This weekend we are off to a fun "Stampede" style BBQ with old family friends. And with family. Kids will be dressed up like cowgirls and a cowboy. I am the official photographer, so I am looking forward to do that just for fun. I am praying that this year all stay healthy, and now throw up. Last year after the Luau, right as soon as we walked through the door, July Puke Fest 2008 began, and lasted for one whole week. Healthy thoughts! Healthy thoughts. You can see why I might feel a little worried right :D

Have a great weekend!

Cathy

In our backyard

2009-07-09T09:26:00.000-07:00

Right now because it is summer, we have a lot of stuff out there to keep the kids busy and having fun. So this is what we have out there:

Swing set/slide combo
Mini craft table/snack table.
Playhouse (getting there)
Three mini tents
One sandbox
One trampoline
Assortment of bikes and ride toys (like the Little Tykes police car my sister gave Cameron for his first birthday--still kickin'!)
Bubbles/blowers
And, on really hot days I take out ALL of the ice cubes dump them into a large container and they go to town. This is my cheap and fun idea. Keeps them cool and entertained.

I would have to say this has been one of the best summers yet. We have so much planned for this summer vacation. I cannot wait for some of the fun stuff ahead. I have been enjoying how nicely the kids have all been playing together for the most part. This is the VERY first summer where it has felt like this. Probably because I am not pregnant, not breast feeding and I don't have a newborn around.

Photo by Cameron

2009-07-08T20:35:00.001-07:00

Courtney...asleep.

Cameron made this.

2009-07-08T17:34:00.000-07:00

Cameron decided to do some filming of the girls in the van. Be prepared for some jiggling of the screen. IF you are sensitive you may not like this. Remember this was filmed by a nine year old, who is almost a 10 year old.

P.S. The van was parked, and not in motion. And there was not really an earthquake. Just a boy with a good imagination :D

Enjoy!

Cathy

Hard at Work Hubby.

2009-07-08T17:23:00.000-07:00

After a light pole had been knocked over, Cliff had to go cap off the wires and mark it with a pylon. He helps keep the city streets safe :D

My hubby Cliff works hard for us. One of the most hard working men I know in my life. He works a lot so that I can stay at home with the kids. That had been the goal from day one. We said when we were pregnant with our first, that he would work, and I would raise the kids. We have stayed pretty true to our word. I am pleased that we have both been able to have this for our family. We will continue this way until I am able to do more photography. I see that happening in the next few years, once the youngest hits Kindergarten/Grade One.

I couldn't see it any other way. Either could he.

Anyways, over the past weekend my husband had been on call at work. So, after a fun day at the berry festival, he got called to work. His second call out of the week. So, on Sunday afternoon I had the opportunity to go watch him work. I took two videos, but I will share the shorter version. The other one I will share with the kids.

Enjoy!

P.S. Cliff, thank you for all of your love and support for these past 11 years. You are the best hubby a girl could ever get. I love you. xo

A week to get organized!

2009-07-02T14:33:00.001-07:00

This is the week I said I would get organized. So far so good.

Done:

Master Bedroom closet cleaned out and organized
Donation pile ready go to charity
Kids' individual boxes sorted out
New little boxes for their individual treasures (two more, as Coco doesn't have any treasures -- poor bub!)
Necklace situation sorted out (only Coco needs a heart shaped necklace)
Sorted through girls' clothing, and created a donation bag or two
Barbies stuff sorted
Craft cabinet organized
Individual craft supply boxes sorted, purged and put back

Trying to read

2009-07-02T08:49:00.000-07:00

Sorry...photo is upside down.

Yes, I know how to read. It is finding the TIME to read which is the difficult task. Fitting in all in. I ordered two books from Amazon. And they have already arrived! They came so quickly! And yesterday I want to Chapters and I purchased a book. (I was anticipating a long wait for the two!)

When I was growing up I LOVED to read. I would be the kid under her covers with a flashlight reading to the wee hours of the morning! But the more kids I had, the less time for reading. SO, I decided I would try again. The three books are all business/camera/photoshop related. That is GOOD! I need to challenge myself. So, I will try to read. If not, I think that audio books will be the way to go.

Anyways! They are all sitting here beside me on my desk! First, I go clean the bathrooms. Then I will open up the box! It feels like Christmas!! I just love to keep learning!

Cathy xo

P.S. The best two books I read were actually last night. My girls Claire and Carly wrote me a book each. So cute. I love it!

Hardly ever

2009-06-30T14:17:00.000-07:00

I realize I hardly ever take photos of the kids, or the family anymore. I still have Carly's birthday photos in an organized envelope on my desk. I need to buy an album for her still. All of my personal stuff kind of put on hold. I have her next birthday at the end of August! I hope to have that all squared away by then. Time flies by, and I have other stuff to do all of the time.

So, I have decided that I will be buying a point and shoot camera to take on family outings and vacations. Easy, no pressure. Just family memories. I need to make more of those. I was thinking of the importance of photos. Dane Sanders only has one photo of him and his Dad. His Dad died when he was a wee little guy. Click on his link that says "two by two" to view his story on video. His Dad wasn't into photography, as a result no memories.

Cliff, he has two SMALL albums of photos that I put together for him. I fortunately have a whole bunch! I was the first born. I feel fortunate to have those, and all of the memories my Mom and Dad saved for me along the way.

Anyways, I have decided I need to enjoy my family time, and just shoot snapshots just for fun. Nothing creative, just fun snaps of the family and our life together as eight.

So, if you don't take any photos...maybe you need to take a few! Your kids and family will thank you. Sometimes it is not about getting the most technically perfect photo. I have to remember this daily!

Now, I need to find a photog. to take our yearly family photo. The last time we had a professional photo Courtney was just sitting up, and had no hair. My how all of us have changed since then. Life has changed since then!

Professional photogs? Who would like to shoot our family session? Any takers?

Cathy xo

Combo

2009-06-30T01:45:00.000-07:00

I am thinking that I may combine my blogs. Instead of trying to upkeep all of them!

What do you think? I am working on some very exciting changes that will happen this summer.

I need to simplify, and besides most everybody knows me by my real name now ;D

Comments and ideas appreciated!

Love,

Cathy xo

Radio Interview today

2009-06-29T15:31:00.000-07:00

Buzz Bishop interviewed me.

From his twitter feed: will have interview with @cathyempey on @virgin953 this aft. what's it like to be a mom of SIX?! a local jon and kate styled story coming up (Listen in between 4 and 4:30 this afternoon)

If you are not local here is the link to the online player!

Interview with @buzzbishop on @virgin953 today between 4 and 4:30 talking all about life with a large family. Langley's Cathy and Cliff + 6!

Time is pst.

http://vancouver.virginradio.ca/player

Cheers!

Cathy

Last full day!

2009-06-24T08:10:00.000-07:00

Wow, today is the last full day of school for my three big kids! Tomorrow is a half day (and a fun talent show to watch) and that is it!

In September, I will have four kids in school! One in Grad 5, one in grade 3, one in grade 2 and one in Kindergarten.

How exciting!

Take a little trip...

2009-06-23T21:57:00.000-07:00

Cliff got to use his Christmas present tonight from my Mom. He says thanks Mom! He had a half an hour intro flight at our local airport.

He loves flying, and so he got to practically fly and land the plane.

I brought Carly and Cameron to watch him. I am happy for him. He deserves good things :D