A Look Into Our Lives

Twelve Days of Christmas – a NEW version

2012-01-24T20:46:00.001-08:00

I stumbled upon this poem and just had to share it!! I LOVE IT!!

The Twelve Days of Christmas

On the first day of Christmas, the good Lord gave to me: a child with a disability.

On the second day of Christmas, the good Lord gave to me: a heart full of love for my child with a disability.

On the third day of Christmas, the good Lord gave to me: an ache in my heart and a heart full of love for my child with a disability.

On the fourth day of Christmas, the good Lord gave to me: a tear in my eyes, an ache in my heart and a heart full of love for my child with a disability.

On the fifth day of Christmas, the good Lord gave to me: an unsuspected strength for the tear in my eyes and the ache in my heart and my heart full of love for my child with a disability.

On the sixth day of Christmas, the good Lord gave to me: a ray of hope, an unsuspected strength for the tear in my eyes and the ache in my heart and my heart full of love for my child with a disability.

On the seventh day of Christmas, the good Lord gave to me: a sense of humor, a ray of hope, an unsuspected strength for the tear in my eyes and the ache in my heart and my heart full of love for my child with a disability.

On the eighth day of Christmas, the good Lord gave to me: supportive friends, a sense of humor, a ray of hope, an unsuspected strength for the tear in my eyes and the ache in my heart and my heart full of love for my child with a disability.

On the ninth day of Christmas, the good Lord gave to me: remarkable doctors & therapists, supportive friends, a sense of humor, a ray of hope, an unsuspected strength for the tear in my eyes and the ache in heart and my heart full of love for my child with a disability.

On the tenth day of Christmas, the good Lord gave to me: an appreciation of small accomplishments, remarkable doctors & therapists, supportive friends, a sense of humor, a ray of hope, an unsuspected strength for the tear in my eyes and the ache in my heart and my heart full of love for my child with a disability.

On the eleventh day of Christmas, the good Lord gave to me: a sense of pride, an appreciation of small accomplishments, remarkable doctors & therapists, supportive friends, a sense of humor, a ray of hope, an unsuspected strength for the tear in my eyes and the ache in my heart and my heart full of love for my child with a disability.

On the twelfth day of Christmas, the good Lord said to me: Reach out and share your sense of pride, your appreciation of small accomplishments, your remarkable doctors & therapists, your supportive friends, your sense of humor, your ray of hope, your unsuspected strength for the tear in your eyes and the ache in your heart and your heart full of love for your child with a disability.

Is Caty ready for the Roller Derby?

2012-01-23T13:02:00.001-08:00

Not quite but she had a ton of fun at her friend Kylie’s birthday party! Kylie and Caty met in the 3 year old preschool class. I had Hanna with me so I told Caty that she’d have to manage by herself. Thankfully Kylie’s older sisters and their friends helped her out but soon enough she was skating (ok walking because they turned the wheels so they pretty much didn’t go around).

Caty getting some help from Avery

Hanna and Payton (Kylie’s little sister) having some fun of their own

Caty, Aubrey, Kylie, Kylie’s cousin Taylor, and Maddy

Aubrey doing great!

The girls are off for more skating

Caty and Aubrey

She’s doing it!!

Watching their big sissy’s!

The birthday girl!

Happy Birthday Kylie! So glad that you and Caty are such good friends!

Simple Woman’s Daybook – January 23rd 2012

2012-01-23T11:45:00.001-08:00

For today – January 23rd 2012

Outside my window… the rain has finally slowed. It was POURING when I dropped Caty off at school this morning :-(

I am thinking… about how I could have just one more cup of coffee – I’m cold!!

I am thankful for… friends and family!

In the kitchen… coffee is finished…dishes washed and put away…so not much going on

I am wearing… jeans and a sweatshirt – trying to keep warm.

I am creating… Boards on Pinterest – such fun!!

I am going to… hopefully start watching another child. Met with a family of a 7 month old yesterday – think that it went well, just waiting to hear from them about what they’ve decided to do. They have only had family watch their little girl so this is a big step.

I am reading… still nothing but wanting to start the Twilight series soon – been looking over Girl Scout stuff (lots of reading material) and needing to get this troop going.

I am hoping… to get this job watching the little girl.

I am hearing… the wind and rain outside…Hanna playing with her toys.

Around the house… Hanna is playing, I’m catching up on posting blogs, the cat can’t decide if he wants in or out…

A few plans for the rest of the week… Watching a friend of Caty’s before and after school as his dad is out of town helping her big sister move to LA. Dropping my parents car off at the airport as they come home from Maui tonight. Hoping I’ll be watching Ciena and Nolan a day or two. Friday night I’m heading out with some girlfriends to hear my favorite band play at Stoney’s. Saturday is beer bottling day so we’ll head over to our friends house for that.

A picture that I’m sharing… here’s the IPA that is fermenting. Yes, there’s a lot of chunky stuff in there but that gets strained out. Can’t wait to try it!!

Wordless Wednesday – January 18th 2012

2012-01-18T10:47:00.001-08:00

New and Improved!!

2012-01-16T13:00:00.000-08:00

As many of you know from my Facebook posts, Scott and my dad did quite a bit of work in our kitchen over Winter Break. My dad is very very handy and Scott is a great apprentice.

Here’s what our kitchen looked like before – notice the lovely white tile countertops – YUCK!! FYI…our floors (in the kitchen, entry way and hallway to the girls rooms) are the same tile so guess what the next project will be???

I took this picture as the girls and I were leaving to head to my parents where we stayed during the process…bye bye ugly white tile!

Scott took pictures on his phone and sent them to me at the end of the day….

End of day 1

End of day 2

End of day 3

And the finished product…

Simple Woman’s Daybook – January 16th 2012

2012-01-16T11:05:00.001-08:00

For today – January 16th 2012

Outside my window… it’s sunny but it sure isn’t warm! It’s 37* right now (9:45 am) – this is CA people, that’s cold!

I am thinking… about how lucky we’ve been with the CA weather we’ve been having lately. We are in need of rain though and it’s coming later this week.

I am thankful for… the fact that it’s a holiday and I’m still in my pajamas.

In the kitchen… the coffee pot is calling my name before it shuts off for the day

I am wearing… my PAJAMAS!!

I am creating… not much, still have a few more blogs to catch up on.

I am going to… get dressed soon, just in case the kids show up earlier than their dad said!

I am reading… nothing…still haven’t started a new book yet, maybe today I will. Need to start the Twilight series so I can get the whole set read by the time Breaking Dawn Part 1 comes out.

I am hoping… that the Chris Gardner Band CD comes out soon!!

I am hearing… Karla Davis singing ""Fire and Rain” by James Taylor. Karla tried out for this season of the Voice and I can’t wait to see how she did.

Around the house… the girls are coloring; Caty is watching Home Alone; Scott’s gone for the day – went to Reno to help his dad with a few things. Gonna watch the sibling set for a few hours today as well.

A few plans for the rest of the week… home today, not too much else going on during the week, hopefully have my afterschool kids a day or two. Saturday is beer brewing day for Scott and his friend so we’ll be over at their house for a few hours.

I’m sharing a video today instead of what I’m listening to…

Christmas time…

2012-01-13T13:06:00.001-08:00

The girls helping make some salt dough ornaments that we used for Table place settings on Christmas Day – unfortunately I didn’t get any finished product pictures. Oops!

At Nana and Papa’s for Christmas Eve dinner, some cookie making and a few presents

Mmm…Christmas cookies!!

Good job Papa…cutting Scott’s head off…oops!

Opening some presents

Seeing what’s in their stockings

Caty got Connect 4

And a bead set

Hanna got a potty for her dolls, which worked out great – she decided last week that she was going to start using the potty and has been doing GREAT!!!

Caty LOVES iCarly!

Back home we went to get ready for Santa…

Throwing some carrots out for the reindeer

Flat Stanley got to help with the cookies

I didn’t get a picture of the milk but Hanna wanted to leave Santa Chocolate milk since that’s what Max and Ruby left him

Onto Christmas morning….

Caty asked Santa for a Password Journal – a pretty cool gift if you ask me. She had to program a password and it only opens to her voice.

Hanna asked for a Scooter and Santa got her a Minnie Mouse one!

Some new books

Cute little baskets from Auntie Barbara and Uncle Bill

New art supplies

Bears from Auntie Claudia

Presents from Grandpa – Hanna got a Tag Junior and Caty got Disney’s Apples to Apples

Hanna got a Leapfrog My Own Storytime Pad

Caty also recently inherited Daddy’s old iPod so we got her new Clock/Radio/MP3 player stereo so now she can plug her iPod in and listen away

Daddy and his girls

Me and my little loves

Family picture

My parents came over later in the day, which meant more presents for the girls!!!

Caty got a desk for her room!!

Opening presents from Uncle Todd, Auntie Erin, Riley and Reese

Hanna’s new Kitty Helmet

Took the picture before, not after…but Caty got supplies for her desk…pencil holders, notebooks, etc

Last present of the day….Hanna got her own camera – now she doesn’t have to steal sissy’s!

We had a wonderful day…hope that you did too!

Flashback Friday – January 13th 2012

2012-01-13T10:16:00.001-08:00

2011

In Reno visiting Grandpa

2010

All bundled up and nowhere to go

2009

Enjoying a park day

2008

2007

Playing in the leaves

2006

Wordless Wednesday – January 11th 2012

2012-01-11T23:00:00.001-08:00

Christmas Cookies

2012-01-09T13:18:00.000-08:00

Simple Woman’s Daybook – January 9th 2012

2012-01-09T11:28:00.001-08:00

For today – January 9th 2012

Outside my window… the sun is shining and it’s warming up – was a chilly 32* this morning but it’s supposed to get into the low 60’s this afternoon.

I am thinking… about nothing in particular.

I am thankful for… the fact that Hanna is 75% potty trained. She had no interest in going on her own until just this past week. We were driving home from dropping my parents off at the airport and she announced that she had to go potty. I told her that she was going to have to wait until we got home and she did. Walked right in and went. She’s been in pull-ups and big girl panties since and stayed dry most of the time. Caty was easy but Hanna is definitely easier – might have something to do with being able to get her pants on and off by herself. YAY HANNA!!

In the kitchen… LOOKS BEAUTIFUL!!! And there’s meat cooking in the crock pot for tacos tonight…mmm!!!

I am wearing… jeans and my Chico State sweatshirt – can’t believe that 'I’ve had this sweatshirt since my freshman year there, which was a LONG time ago (started my freshman year almost 18 years ago – I’M OLD!!)

I am creating… some more blog posts – have more catching up to do after my 2 week hiatus during Xmas break.

I am going to… become a Girl Scout leader so Caty can be in Girl Scouts.

I am reading… nothing right now, haven’t started a new book yet. Thinking of re-reading the Twilight series before Breaking Dawn Part 1 comes out in a month.

I am hoping… that the sun keeps on shining!

I am hearing…Hanna playing with her kitchen and cooking some food for her green bear.

Around the house… not much going on….Hanna’s playing, I’m trying to catch up on my blogs…Jinx is sleeping in the warm sunshine.

A few plans for the rest of the week… Girl Scout leader meeting tomorrow morning, not much going on the rest of the week, at least nothing planned as of right now.

A picture that I’m sharing… Helping make some salt dough ornaments that we used as our place settings for Christmas dinner – unfortunately I didn’t get any pictures of the finished products. They sure were cute though!

Flashback Friday = January 6th 2012

2012-01-06T20:31:00.001-08:00

Flashing back to past January 6th

2011

Caty and her favorite dolls

Someone discovered the kleenex box

2010

A visit with Nana and Papa

Caty wanted to help get the leaves off the tree

2009

In Reno, visiting Grandpa

(Ok, these pictures were taken at the top of the pass – there sure wasn’t this much snow in Reno)

Opening presents from Grandpa

2008

Yep, another picture with her dolls

2007

She’s always loved reading, even to Jinx

Me and my Caty bug

Gotta make sure the babies are fed

Playing outside – yes, she accomplished a lot this day!

2006

On a visit to San Diego to see Uncle Todd

Wordless Wednesday – January 4th 2011

2012-01-04T16:23:00.001-08:00

Lights, Lights and More Lights….

2012-01-04T14:10:00.000-08:00

Kinda like the leaves post but trust me there were LOTS OF LIGHTS!!!

Pebble Creek Drive in Rocklin offers an amazing Holiday Lights display. I would say 95% of the houses are decorated – it’s amazing!!

This night was so much fun and the girls both did great. We walked around for about 45 minutes – quite tiring on the legs of a 2 year old and also Caty.

We love this tradition!! This is our 3rd or 4th year old going.

Getting ready for Christmas…

2012-01-04T11:53:00.000-08:00

The Friday that school got out for Winter Break was “Dress in winter wear day” and Caty chose to go as Rudolph…she made for one cute reindeer

Later that day, she and Hanna sat down and listened to Nana and Papa read them “Twas The Night Before Christmas” – I just love this recordable book and so did Hanna because she has listened to it over and over and over again.

Hanna and her jingle bells

We were a little late getting our Christmas tree this year (as in we got it a week before Christmas!). We’d been told that Wise Buys had some great trees so we had to check it out. Now if you are unfamiliar with Wise Buys, everything in the store is under $10 – yes, even Christmas trees!!

Hanna getting to put the angel on the top

Caty’s ornament

Hanna’s ornament

Christmas ornament from 2009 that my parents gave us

Christmas 2010

Christmas 2011

Leaves, Leaves and MORE Leaves!!

2012-01-04T08:00:00.000-08:00

These girls LOVE playing in the leaves!!

Jinx staying clear of the ground

And some play time with Ciena and Nolan (the kids that I watch after school)

LPA Holiday Parties….

2012-01-03T13:00:00.000-08:00

Our LPA Chapter’s holiday party is one of our biggest events each year – it’s always a fabulous time with friends.

We’re ready to go

Getting some help from Flat Stanley

Hai and Jude posing

Hanna working on a snowman

Caty and Mary

Santa came!!

Bradley getting his present

Caty getting hers

Hanna telling Santa that she wants a scooter for Christmas

Caty, Hanna and Josie

Caty and Aidan

My friend Rachel (of Rachel Cameron Photography) came to the event was available to take family pictures…turned out that it was a great idea to have her there – she got some great pictures!

Now if you noticed from my title, I said PARTIES….

The Bay Area LPA Chapter was having their Holiday Party on Sunday December 11th and it just so happened that my cousin’s holiday party was on the 10th so Caty and I spent the night at my aunts house. Growing up in the Bay Area and now living only about an hour and half from parts of the Bay Area, allows up to visit (although since my parents moved, we have only been back a couple of times).

We had a quick get together in the morning with a childhood friend of mine, Juan, and his wife Elaine. Then headed to Moraga were the LPA Party was taking place. It took quite a bit longer to get there than my phone told me it would – took over 45 minutes, not the 30 that it said, Oh well….we were fashionably late. Caty was excited to see her friends Jos and Airah.

Santa showed up on a firetruck

Waiting patiently

Getting her present from Santa

Patiently waiting AGAIN

Jos got her present

As did Airah

The girls

Tearing into their gifts

Caty got a water bottle that she could color herself – great gift Santa!!

This was the first time that we had ever attending an event hosted by the Bay Area chapter (except for a regional) however we know several of the families. And our District Director was in attendance and came up to me and asked “are you THE Jaime Murphy?” I guess I should feel privileged he knew me and that I’m that well known. We had a great time and hope to join in again soon.

So very Thankful!

2012-01-03T10:06:00.001-08:00

Looking back into the month of November and FINALLY getting around to blogging again…been a busy Christmas break with not much time to do much.

The two things I am most thankful for!!!

Scott’s dad came down from Reno and met us at my parents for Thanksgiving.

The girls and Grandpa

Hanna helping Papa roll the crescent rolls

Family picture time

The girls and my parents

The day after Thanksgiving we hopped in the car and headed to Chico for lunch at our favorite sandwich place (Kona’s) and a quick visit to the Chico State sign. Scott and I were both attending Chico and met in the Spring of 1998.

From Chico we headed out to Orland where Scott’s aunt, uncle, grandma and cousins live. We weren’t the only visitors that day…in all there were about 30 family members there for dinner!!

Grandpa and his girls

All the cousins and a few adults to make the picture happen

Tutu (Scott’s mom) and her girls

What a busy two days we had…but so thankful for family!

Catching up….

2012-01-03T09:57:00.001-08:00

I am SO far behind on my blogging!!!

I haven’t even posted a blog about Thanksgiving…geez!!

Now that Caty is back at school I’m hoping to get caught up.

So stay tuned….

Park Day

2011-12-26T22:20:00.001-08:00

The girls and I are spending a couple of nights out at my parents while Scott and my dad retile our kitchen counters. We hit the park with Nana today.

Caty having fun

Hanna loving the slide

Nana and the girls

Me and my girls

Ps - I'm trying to post this from my phone so I have no idea if it'll work, or if the pictures will even show up where I'm hoping that they do.

Simple Woman’s Daybook – December 12th 2011

2011-12-12T20:22:00.001-08:00

For today – December 12th 2011

Outside my window… another sea of leaves – even though Scott raked the last sea up.

I am thinking… that we really need to start getting some Christmas decorations up…Scott put up the lights but with being out of town this past weekend we still don’t have a tree.

I am thankful for… my hot coffee right now – it’s cold outside!!

In the kitchen… the cabinets are back on – if you remember from my last Daybook entry my dad had taken all of the cabinet doors and refinished them….next up during Christmas Break my dad and Scott are going to tear out our white tiled countertops and replace it with new tiles that we picked out.

I am wearing… jeans and a fleece sweatshirt…brr…

I am creating… absolutely nothing

I am going to… head out in a little bit to pick up our kindergartner friend.

I am reading… still nothing…haven’t picked up anything.

I am hoping… to get most of my Christmas cards addresses by tonight…have about half of them done.

I am hearing… Hanna and Dora – she’s watching Dora’s Christmas Carol.

Around the house… not a whole lot going on…kinda boring

A few plans for the rest of the week… not too much going on during the week…making cookies tomorrow for Caty’s teachers. Friday night I’m heading out with some friends to hear my favorite local band play :-). Saturday we’ve got a playdate in the morning with some friends, then heading over Saturday afternoon to visit with other friends and decorate cookies. YUMMY!

A picture that I’m sharing…

Flashback Friday – December 9th 2011

2011-12-09T20:40:00.001-08:00

2010

What we were doing last December 9th (and just so you know….today they were playing in the leaves)

2009

Snuggle time

2008

Decorating the Christmas tree

One of my MOST favorite sayings!!!!

2007

Helping Nonni celebrate her birthday

2006

Taking Minnie for a ride

Hey look!! Another December 9th that we were playing in the leaves!

Taking another friend for a ride

2005

Wordless Wednesday – December 7th 2011

2011-12-07T15:32:00.001-08:00

Recipe Time - Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Muffins

2011-12-02T19:50:00.001-08:00

I love this time of year because pumpkin is involved in lots of baking recipes. I have a great recipe for Pumpkin Bread but came across this recipe on Facebook so I thought that I would try it out….

They are SOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO good!!!

Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Muffins

4 eggs

2 cups sugar

1 15 oz can pumpkin

1 1/2 cups vegetable oil

3 cups flour

2 tsp baking soda

2 tsp baking powder

1 tsp salt

1 tsp cinnamon

1 1/2 – 2 cups chocolate chips

Beat together eggs, sugar, pumpkin and oil. Combine flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon and salt – doesn’t call for it but I threw some cloves in, maybe 1/2 tsp. Add to pumpkin mixture and mix well. Fold in chocolate chips. Fill greased or paper-lined muffin cups 2/3 full of batter. Bake at 400* for 16-18 minutes. Cool in pan for 10 minutes before removing to wire rack.

Optional part – which I didn’t do – Cream cheese filling.

8 oz cream cheese

1 TBS sugar

1/2 tsp vanilla

Beat together these ingredients. Fill muffin cups 1/3 of the way full and add a dollop of cream cheese filling then top with more batter.

I know that this recipe calls for a lot of oil but it made about 36 muffins.

Let me know if you make them and what you think

Flashback Friday – December 2nd 2011

2011-12-02T19:36:00.001-08:00

Tomorrow is our LPA Chapter’s Holiday Party so I thought that I’d flashback to previous LPA Holiday Parties.

2010

2009

With Bradley and Aidan

2008

With Melisa & Aidan and Mandy & Bradley

2007

Caty and Bradley

2006

Caty and Aidan

Not liking Santa ONE BIT!!

Caty and Haley

2005

The only pic from our first LPA Holiday Party

Simple Woman’s Daybook – November 28th 2011

2011-11-28T11:25:00.001-08:00

For today – November 28th 2011

Outside my window… I see a sea of leaves – time to think about raking them up.

I am thinking… about how bummed I am that the parent of one of the kids that I have been watching after school called yesterday and said that they won’t be needing my help anymore :-( The extra cash really helped out….already started looking for another family. Hoping to find something soon.

I am thankful for… my hot coffee right now – it’s cold outside!!

In the kitchen… there are a few things missing … my dad is going to refinish our kitchen cabinets so we brought him all the doors.

I am wearing… jeans and a sweatshirt

I am creating… some blogs posts, have a few to catch up on…story of my life

I am going to… keep thinking positively that I will soon find another family who needs childcare

I am reading… nothing – still haven’t picked up a new book yet, was thinking of re-reading the Twilight books but I also have a ton of other books to choose between , so we’ll see

I am hoping… to find another family soon that needs childcare

I am hearing… Hanna and Elmo’s World

Around the house… laundry is drying, more needs to go in the washing machine…and I’m sure the floor could use sweeping

A few plans for the rest of the week… we have friends coming over tonight for Monday Night Football/drinks/dinner, not much else going on during the week (would like to head to Stoney’s on Thursday night so I can chat with Chris Gardner and Kevin Lutz – the owner of Stoney’s – about the 2nd annual LPA Country Music Fundraiser but we’ll see), and on Saturday we have our LPA Holiday Party which is always wonderful!!

A picture that I’m sharing…

Flashback Friday

2011-11-18T15:31:00.001-08:00

Flashing back to past November 18ths

2010

2009

2008

A visit to the Jelly Belly Factory

2007

Caty’s first haircut

2006

Getting ready for mommy’s birthday

2005

Apple Hill Without the Apples

2011-11-15T08:00:00.000-08:00

We headed up to Apple Hill back in October with some friends who had never been before. We had a great time despite the fact that the apple picking orchard we chose to get our apples from had HORRIBLE looking apples and we didn’t come home with a single one. Oh well, we had a great time and the weather was PERFECT – as you’ll notice…the guys were in shorts.

Claire, Caty and Hanna

Caty at High Hill, sitting on quite a pumpkin

The girls got their faces painted

Hanna chose a kitty

And Caty chose a butterfly

Family picture

Onto Apple Ridge Farms…

One Little Pumpkin

Two Little Pumpkins

Three Little Pumpkins

Feeding the sheep

Running through the pumpkin patch

Caty found one

Claire too!

Hanna too!

We stopped at Abel’s Acres to have lunch but the line consisted of about 20 people and last year it took us about 30 minutes to order and get our food with only 5 people in front of us so there was no way we were going to wait. I did get an apple pie from their Bake Shop though but forgot to take a picture but you can get an idea from this one…

From here we made a quick stop at Willow Pond Farm and were very disappointed because their apples SUCKED!! Not sure if it was the crazy warm then cold weather we’d had recently but with 3 cranky girls who were tired and hungry we spent about 10 minutes here before we headed to Placerville to find somewhere for lunch.

Thanks for a great day Traub family!

Simple Woman’s Daybook – November 14th 2011

2011-11-14T11:56:00.001-08:00

For today – November 14th 2011

Outside my window… it’s sunny so far…we’ll see what happens later today

I am thinking… about not much…kinda boring around here this morning

I am thankful for… family and friends

In the kitchen… not much going on except for some dishes that are in the sink and needing to be washed – I’ll just wait until after the lunch dishes get added to the pile

I am wearing… jeans and a sweatshirt

I am creating… some blog posts – at least in my head – I’ve got lots of catching up to do

I am going to… head out in a few to get one of our after school kindergartners

I am reading… nothing..need to figure out which book to pick up next

I am hoping… that Scott gets home early enough (it’s parents conference week so he’s got one scheduled for 3:30) so I can go for a walk ALONE!

I am hearing… Hanna playing with her doll house – she loves it!

Around the house… the sewing machine is out as I was hemming some of Caty’s pajama pants…have a few more things to alter.

A few plans for the rest of the week… watching the after school kids – not much going on until Saturday – IT’S MY BIRTHDAY!! Heading to my parents for a birthday dinner.

A picture that I’m sharing… Caty’s 1st grade picture

I’m a SLACKER!!

2011-11-12T10:49:00.001-08:00

Just looking back on my posts and have to admit that I sure have slacked lately! Hoping to get a few done and posted.

In the meantime…here’s a picture to tide you over until I get them done…

Flashback Friday – October 28th 2011

2011-10-28T10:28:00.001-07:00

Since Halloween is just a couple of days away I thought that I’d flashback to Halloweens over the past years.

2010

2009

2008

Everyone wants a Pumpkin Fairy

2007

Boo at the Zoo

2006

Off to a Halloween party

2005

Wishing everyone a Happy (and safe) Halloween!

Simple Woman’s Daybook – October 25th 2011

2011-10-25T12:24:00.001-07:00

For today – October 25th 2011

Outside my window… it’s sunny and warming up. This morning it actually felt like fall…was cool and foggy.

I am thinking… about how incredible the District 12 Fall Regional turned out. We had over 200 attend!! What a fabulous weekend with our LPA family!

I am thankful for… the fact that this past weekend (see above) is over. Being co-chair for the regional sure has kept me busy – glad to not have to worry about it anymore.

In the kitchen… not much going on... about time to think about lunch but Hanna is busy playing in her room so I don’t want to disturb her.

I am wearing… my good old Chico sweatshirt and capri’s

I am creating… not much… have a few blogs posts to catch up on though.

I am going to… hopefully win at Bunco tonight!!

I am reading… Susan Wiggs “Summer By The Sea”

I am hoping… see “I am going to” post from above :-)

I am hearing… Hanna playing in her room – she’s reading books to her dollie

Around the house… Hanna is busy playing and I’m catching up on dvr’d shows

A few plans for the rest of the week… Bunco tonight, not much else going on (watching my after school kindergartner Wed-Fri. Sunday we’re off to a friends “going away” party. Jenny and her family are moving to the Seattle area and we sure will miss them.

A picture that I’m sharing… remember how I mentioned that Hanna was reading books to her dollie… well I went to check on her and this is what I found…

Yes…she emptied the whole entire bottom shelf. I’d better so check to make sure that she hasn’t moved onto the middle shelf…

Flashback Friday – October 21 2011

2011-10-21T08:00:00.000-07:00

January 2007 – Caty received this handmade horse from my parents for Christmas when she was almost 2 – finally something that she would ride on and her feet would touch the ground.

And check this out

The newest rider…

Country in the Park

2011-10-20T08:00:00.000-07:00

What an amazing but LONG day Caty and I had at Country in the Park.

It started around 8:30 when Shelly (who is Aaron’s -from the CGB- mom) showed up to join us for the day. Then Melissa (who is Nikkos’ – from the CGB – girlfriend) showed up about 9:00. We met the band at Rachel Cameron’s (who did the photography for the fundraiser) house – luckily she lives about 2 minutes from us. Shelly and Melissa had to get their tickets for the show from the guys.

This year Country in the Park took place at Gibson Ranch which is less than 2 miles from our house. Took us awhile to get in but luckily the friends we were meeting there are the merchandise sellers for the CGB and were allowed to pass through the line – we managed to be able to get in the handicap line and only waited about 5 minutes.

There is no seating at Gibson Ranch just lots and lots of grass – we luckily got through the gates quickly and found a spot about 50 feet from the stage.

This is how close we were!!

Up first, my friends, the Chris Gardner Band

Chris

Nikko

Aaron

Dwight

Joey – never get any pictures of him cause he’s always hidden being the drummer – these next couple pictures were taken by Rachel Cameron – after photographing our LPA Fundraiser she talked with Chris and ended up being able to take pictures of them all day at Country in the Park.

Look at that crowd – my friends playing for a sold out show to 17,000!! So incredibly proud of them!

Country in the Park took place on Sunday September 11th so lots of patriotism throughout the whole day.

The National Guard playing the National Anthem

A balloon release – one balloon for ever person who lost their lives on 9/11 – We’ll never forget!

And now onto some of the other artists who took the stage

Jaron and the Long Road to Love – Pray for You

Love and Theft – Dancing in Circles and Runaway

Steve Holy – Love Don’t Run (this recording is actually from Country in the Park) and Brand New Girlfriend

Brett Eldredge - Raymond

Joe Nichols – Tequila Makes Her Close Fall Off, The Impossible, Gimmie that Girl, I’ll Wait For You

Billy Currington – Let Me Down Easy, Must Be Doin Something Right, People Are Crazy

Sitting a little ways behind us were one of Caty’s friends from her Kindergarten class – sure helped pass some time

Caty, Shelly and Aaron

Caty and Shelly

Working on her Hidden Pictures book

Staying cool with the spray bottle

Even with all the noise she still managed to read about half of her Junie B book.

Kelly, Joey, Chris and Sandy

Sandy and Dwight

What a long but amazing show!! Not to mention it took us almost 2 hours to drive the less than 2 miles home. If they have it at Gibson Ranch again next year, we’ll be walking!!

Wordless Wednesday – October 19th 2011

2011-10-19T09:54:00.001-07:00

Simple Woman’s Daybook – October 17th 2011

2011-10-17T13:28:00.001-07:00

For today – October 17th 2011

Outside my window... it’s sunny and warm – another 85* fall day in CA.

I am thinking… about how excited I am that our districts regional is FINALLY here this coming weekend!! It’s going to be a fabulous weekend; we have over 170 attending. I’m going to be glad when it’s over though :-)

I am thankful for... the warm weather that we’re having because it means that we don’t have to be concerned about rain for this weekend big event!!!

In the kitchen… there are dishes that need to get done but I’m doing this instead

I am wearing... capris and a t-shirt

I am creating... umm…this blog post? Oh yeah and some hand-print wreaths for the banquet tables on Saturday

I am going to… not stress too much about the regional and enjoy myself – hopefully not having to run around too much

I am reading... Susan Wiggs “Summer by the Sea”

I am hoping... for fabulous weekend with great LPA friends – shouldn’t need to hope to much

I am hearing... Toy Story playing – Hanna’s new favorite thing to watch

Around the house… not much going on; when I’m done with this I’ve got some cleaning up to do before our friends come over tonight for Monday Night Football, pizza, beer and apple pie from Apple Hill

A few plans for the rest of the week… not much going on today or tomorrow, Wednesday night Caty’s school is having a fundraiser at McDonalds; the teachers become the waiters/waitresses at McD – should be fun.

A picture that I’m sharing… a preview of our trip to Apple Hill this past Sunday

How Many Will "JUMP?"

2011-10-13T11:45:00.000-07:00

Two years into Michelle Obama’s “Let’s Move” initiative, the first lady keeps looking for new ways to spread the gospel of healthy eating and exercise. This week it involved National Geographic Kids magazine and 450 local school children on the South Lawn trying to break the Guinness world record for the most people doing jumping jacks in a 24-hour period.

In order for the record to be broken, more than 20,425 people of any age had to participate in jumping jacks between 3 p.m. (ET) October 11, and 3 p.m. (ET) October 12.

Caty’s school, Antelope Meadows, participated in trying to break the world record. Good Day Sacramento even came out to catch it live. With over 700 students at Caty’s school, there’s no way that you can find her – I can’t – but she’s out there somewhere.

Here's a link to the video - Antelope Meadows Jumping Jacks

Recipe Time – Mongolian Beef

2011-10-11T08:00:00.000-07:00

This dinner is one of the favorites in our house – it’s DELICIOUS!! I thought I’d share…

1 lb flank steak or last night I used bottom round roast which was presliced

1/4 c cornstarch

2 tsp vegetable oil

1 TBS minced garlic

1 TBS grated ginger (I buy about a 3 inch piece of ginger and use that, never measure out the 1 TBS)

1/2 cup soy sauce

1/2 cup water

1/2 cup brown sugar

2 TBS rice wine (I’m not going to buy rice wine, which I guess is basically saki, so I just use whatever white wine I have on hand)

3 green onions sliced

other vegetables you’d like – I usually use carrots, red bell peppers and asparagus

oil for frying meat

Step 1 – to make the sauce – in a saucepan heat 2 tsp of the oil. Add garlic and ginger, stir fry for about a minute. Add soy sauce, wine and water. Add brown sugar and dissolve into sauce. Bring the sauce to a boil and boil for 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat. Before I use add it later on, I strain it first – helps remove the strings on ginger. I do add some of what is caught in the strainer back into the sauce.

Step 2 – Slice the steak into 1/4inch slices. Toss the steak with the cornstarch and let sit for 10 minutes – this i very important – DO NOT SKIP!!

Step 3 – Heat about a cup of oil in a wok to medium heat. Add the beef slices and cook for about 3 minutes (or use a deep fryer). I don’t cook all the beef at the same time otherwise it won’t crisp up. I cook about 10 pieces at a time. Either use a splash guard for the splattering oil or stand back and WATCH OUT!! It hurts and can be a long process of cooking the beef. Cook beef until crispy and browned.

Step 4 – Remove the meat from the wok and drain on a paper towel. Drain all of the oil from the wok except for about a TBS. Add vegetables and stir fry for a few minutes; add the green onions and cook for another minute or so. Add the steak back in and pour in the sauce. Cook while stirring until it reaches a boil. I usually add a little more cornstarch mixed with water in to help it thicken.

Serve over rice

Let me know what you think.

Simple Woman’s Daybook – October 10th 2011

2011-10-10T10:17:00.001-07:00

For today – October 10th 2011

Outside my window... Fall has finally arrived – at least for today – it’s raining but supposed to get back up into the 80’s later this week.

I am thinking… about how fun our regional weekend is going to be – so far we’re expecting about 160 and we’ve still got 2 weeks to go for all those last minute registrations.

I am thankful for... good friends and family who are helping spread awareness about Dwarfism

In the kitchen… my last cup of coffee is waiting for me…gotta finish this post before getting it though

I am wearing... sweatshirt and capri’s

I am creating... a few blog posts – my post about Country in the Park and a couple others

I am going to… get better at taking pictures, I’ve slacked lately!

I am reading... Susan Wiggs “Summer by the Sea”

I am hoping... that everyone is learning a lot from my daily Dwarfism Facts I’m posting on FB

I am hearing... Trace Adkins singing “You’re Gonna Miss This”

Around the house… I’m doing multiple things on the computer and Hanna is playing with her toys and watching Strawberry Shortcake

A few plans for the rest of the week… heading to our friends tonight for Monday night football and to help Garrett celebrate his birthday; tomorrow night Scott is going to see Incubus; not much else going on during the week except for watching my after school kids; Saturday morning we have our last regional planning meeting before the big shindig next weekend!; Sunday we might make a trip to Apple Hill with our friends we’re seeing tonight.

A picture that I’m sharing…

Flashback Friday – October 7th 2011

2011-10-07T13:19:00.001-07:00

On this Friday I thought that I’d flashback to various trips to the pumpkin patch over the years.

2010

2009 – trip to Bishop’s Pumpkin Patch with Caty’s preschool

Caty and her BFF’s – Kylie and Aubrey – preschool, then kindergarten and now 1st grade together.

2008 – Preschool Field Trip to Bishop’s Pumpkin Patch

2007 – LPA Pumpkin Patch event

2006 – LPA Pumpkin Patch

Aidan going in for a hug

2005 – Our first ever LPA event

LPA Fundraiser

2011-10-04T17:20:00.000-07:00

It's been over 2 months now since the LPA Fundraiser that I hosted. What an amazing event it was and I am so excited to say that there will be a 2nd annual sometime next summer.

I wasn't sure what to expect for a turnout but when I got the final number I was in shock. We had 234 friends, family and people we didn't even know attend. My best friend Michelle (whom I've known since we were 3) and her boyfriend Josh came, Caitlyn's Kindergarten teacher as well as 2 of her classmates came, a few ladies that I used to work with came...that's just the beginning of the list. AMAZING!!!

I'm pleased to say that the fundraiser helped raise over $1700 for the San Joaquin Valley Chapter of LPA.

Our photographer Rachel Cameron took so many pictures plus the pictures that a few friends sent me I just couldn't post all of them on here so I created a video set to Jason Aldeans "My Kinda Party" and that it was!! A party that I will never forget.

Thank you to Chris, Dwight, Aaron, Joey and Nikko for putting on an incredible show. Love you guys!!! And to Stoney Inn for hosting us and supplying us with a delicious spaghetti dinner.

Until next year....

Wordless Wednesday – September 28th 2011

2011-09-28T11:07:00.001-07:00

Wordless Wednesday – September 21st 2011

2011-09-21T13:08:00.001-07:00

Simple Woman’s Daybook – September 12th 2011

2011-09-12T14:17:00.001-07:00

For today – September 12th 2011

Outside my window... it’s sunny and finally not too hot!!

I am thinking… about the amazing Country in the Park concert yesterday – it was the biggest day in my friends the Chris Gardner Band career and I’m so glad that Caty and I were there to be a part of it!

I am thankful for... my friends and family! Love them all!!

In the kitchen… not much is happening in there at 2 in the afternoon

I am wearing... shorts and a top

I am creating... a few blog posts – still working on the post with the pictures from the fundraiser. I was hoping to get a copy of a Chris Gardner original but that isn’t going to happen so I’ll have to use another song.

I am going to… head out in a few with Hanna to pick up Caty from school

I am wondering… if all of you are having a fabulous day?

I am reading... nothing, haven’t started a new book yet

I am hoping... for a win at Bunco tomorrow night

I am hearing... David Nail singing “Let It Rain”

Around the house… Hanna is running back and forth between the living room and her room. She’ll come to me and say goodnight, run into her room and get into bed, then come back to tell me that she’s awake.

A few plans for the rest of the week… heading to some friends house for Monday night football, dinner and drinks – Tuesday Caty’s got a dentist appointment in the afternoon and then I’m heading out to Bunco. Not much else going on until Saturday morning when I have a Fall Regional Planning meeting.

A picture that I’m sharing…

Stay tuned for Country in the Park ….

2011-09-10T22:32:00.001-07:00

Tomorrow Country in the Park 2011 takes place right around the corner from our house. Caty and I will be going and it’s going to be FABULOUS!!!

My friends, the Chris Gardner Band will be opening the show.

The other artists performing are:

Jaron and The Long Road to Love who sings “I Pray For You”

Love and Theft who sing “Dancing in Circles”

Steve Holy who sings “Love Don’t Run”

Brett Eldredge who sings “Raymond”

Joe Nichols – my favorite songs of his are a toss up between “Gimmie That Girl” and “Tequila Makes Her Clothes Fall Off”

And the Headliner is Billy Currington!!! Some of my favorite songs of his are “Must Be Doin Something Right”, “Let Me Down Easy” and his newest “Love Done Gone”,

It’s going to be an AMAZING show!!!

Wordless Wednesday – September 7th 2011

2011-09-07T10:32:00.001-07:00

Caty the 1st Grader…

2011-09-03T10:12:00.000-07:00

School started on August 10th for Caty and she couldn’t have been more excited. To say that she loves school is an understatement. Scott and I are both so happy that she enjoyed it so much.

On the Friday before school started, the class lists were posted. We were thrilled that Caty would be in the same class as her friend Kylie and Aubrey – the girls have been together since they started preschool at age 3.

Caty and Kylie at Caty’s 4th birthday party

Caty and Aubrey

When we saw the lists, we also found out that Caty would have two teachers this year. Mrs Buettner and Mrs Olcomendy have been team teaching for 7 years now. I got a call from Mrs Buettner on that same Friday night and we chatted about close to half and hour. We set up a meeting for the day before school started, just to make sure that everything was ready for Caty and for us to all meet in person.

All ready to go!!

Waiting for us to leave

Proud to be an Antelope Meadows Wildcat

Loves her homework

And just after 2 weeks into the school year she already knew all of the 100 sight words for 1st grade.

Have a wonderful school year Caty bug!!

Flashback Friday – September 2nd 2011

2011-09-02T09:56:00.001-07:00

September 1st 2010

Hanna doing a little cooking

Caty moved from a toddler bed to a twin

September 1st 2009

Naptime for the girls

September 1st 2008

LPA weekend at the cabin

September 1st 2007

At the cabin again

September 1st 2006

Playing with the ball popper and Jinx

September 1st 2005

Hanging out on the hammock at the cabin

Sucking on her arm – she never took a pacifier just sucked on her arm and yes, she’d leave hickies

Wordless Wednesday – August 31st 2011

2011-08-31T22:50:00.001-07:00

Simple Woman’s Daybook – August 29th 2011

2011-08-29T11:37:00.001-07:00

For today – August 29th 2011

Outside my window... it’s very noisy!!! The neighbors dogs won’t stop barking (it started at 6 this morning and it just won’t stop!!) and the dive bombing birds are squawking up a storm!! Jinx is hiding in the house to avoid them.

I am thinking… and wondering about who will be on the next season of Dancing with the Stars – can’t wait to find out tonight while watching Bachelor Pad.

I am thankful for... the fact that my east coast friends are safe yet again after mother nature wracked havoc this weekend.

In the kitchen… there are some dishes that are calling my name as well as the floor which needs swiffering – that’ll happen once I’m done with this post.

I am wearing... shorts and a tank top

I am creating... a video with pictures from the LPA Fundraiser – too many pictures to put into a blog post.

I am going to… starting thinking about the other blogs posts that I need to catch up on – still behind but not as bad as I was a few weeks ago.

I am wondering… when it’s going to start cooling down – I’m ready for cooler weather – supposed to be about 100* today.

I am reading... nothing yet, finished last weeks book and haven’t decided which book to pick up

I am hoping... that none of my east coast friends suffered too much damage from Hurricane Irene.

I am hearing... Hanna playing with the cars and my soap on the tv – I can at least listen to it while typing.

Around the house… Hanna is so happy with her new big girl bed!! She has always liked playing in her room now she LOVES it!! We moved a few things around in there and she now also has the play kitchen – she spent most of yesterday afternoon and now this morning, playing in there.

A few plans for the rest of the week… watching the two kids tomorrow after school – my mom is also coming over to visit before she and my dad head out on Wednesday for their next adventure (thankfully planned for this week and not while Hurricane Irene was hitting the east coast). They are flying into Knoxville TN and visit with the Schmidts, whom Caty and I visited while we were in TN for the LPA National Convention last summer. From there they will be heading to Hilton Head South Carolina and spending 2 weeks there. Friday afternoon Scott, the girls are I are heading out of town with some friends to Arnold for the weekend. Our friends are members at the Broll Mountain Vineyards in Murphy’s. The winery is having an event for members and we were invited to attend as well. Dinner and free wine all night long!! Then on Saturday there will be an all day long community party. On our dive home on Sunday we’re going to stop at Snowshoe Brewing Company for lunch – sounds like a perfect weekend to me!!

A picture that I am sharing...

Cabin Trip 2011

2011-08-26T13:20:00.001-07:00

We spent a long weekend in July at my family’s cabin in Pinecrest. The girls and I rode up with my parents on Wednesday and we met my brother, sister-in-law and niece there. Scott joined us on Friday.

The girls were so happy to be together again

Hanna still loves digging in the dirt

You can’t really see it in this picture but just above Caty’s head there is a pink plastic fish. My brother, Todd, had taken Riley’s fishing pole and cast it to it was up over a branch. He’s lower the fish so they’d chase it, then pull it back up. They loved it and giggled like crazy

Off for a walk – Caty and Riley

Hanna and Nana

The girls at the lake

On our way home

Hanna found the dirt again the next morning

Time for the lake

Hanna found a ladybug that she carried around for while

Caty getting to drive the boat

Beautiful Pinecrest Lake

Caty and myself

Nana and her girls

Papa and his girls

Caty doing a little shore fishing

Hanna and Nana

Nana, Papa and the girls

Family picture

More lake time

Silly Hanna

Hanna and myself on the boat

Hanna and Nana

Caty driving the boat again

More fishing

Hanna loved it!!

Hanna also got to drive the boat

Me and Caty

Joined by Michelle and Cheri (Furner) – both of our families have been coming up to Pinecrest our whole lives but it wasn’t until 2-3 years ago that we realized it. Cheri and I were in the same class in high school and Michelle and Todd as well. This summer was the first time we all ended up being in Pinecrest at the same time. They, along with their families, came and joined us for drinks. Fun times!!

All the kids together

Family picture time – I haven’t announced anything but look at my sister-in-law’s tiny little baby bump. They will be welcoming girl #2 in early November. Girls all around for our family!

Such a great couple of days at the cabin. We always love coming up here and look forward to next summers trip.

Flashback Friday – August 26th 2011

2011-08-26T11:12:00.001-07:00

August 26th of 2010 – so glad that cast was only on for 3 weeks!!

August 26th of 2009 -

Hanna – so many smiles

Caty helping with yard work

August 26th of 2008 - Multi-tasking – talking and swinging

August 26th of 2007

Sliding with Daddy

Sliding with Mommy

August 26th 2006

BIG smiles!!!

What???

Checking out Pinecrest Lake

August 26th of 2005

Just chillin…

Wordless Wednesday – August 24th 2011

2011-08-25T10:57:00.001-07:00

Simple Woman’s Daybook – August 23rd 2011

2011-08-23T21:37:00.001-07:00

For today – August 23rd 2011

Outside my window... the sun is shining and it’s HOT!! If you saw my fb status from yesterday (Monday) then you’ll know about the bird incident – it’s happening again :-)

I am thankful for... the fact that my east coast friends that I have heard from are safe after the earthquake – so scary!!

I am wearing... shorts and a tank top

I am creating... not much right now.

I am going to… head out with Hanna and Nolan to pick up Caty and Ciena from school in a little bit

I am reading... Someone Like You by Sarah Desson

I am hoping... for a win at Bunco tomorrow night!!

I am hearing... Hanna and Nolan playing with the drum in her room.

A few plans for the rest of the week… Watching a new kindergartner tomorrow and Thursday, I’m hosting Bunco tomorrow night, not much on Friday, Saturday have an LPA Regional Planning meeting in the morning – my mom is meeting me at the hotel and picking the girls up to take them to their house for swimming. Sunday we’ll see what we do – some friends are having a BBQ but we’ll have to see how tired the girls are from swimming on Saturday.

A picture that I am sharing... Hanna and her tent – notice the little (battery operated) lantern she has on.

Flashback Friday – August 19th 2011

2011-08-19T11:37:00.001-07:00

Since school started last week and I’m back into the blogging, I thought that today's Flashback Friday should be about Caty’s 1st day of school through the past couple of years.
First of day Kindergarten on August 10th 2010 – who could forget the broken foot!

First day of Preschool on August 17th 2009

First day of Preschool on September 17th 2008

It’s such a great thing that she LOVES school so much!!

POLP Swim Meet-Up

2011-08-16T10:53:00.001-07:00

I met Sarah Frey on Facebook shortly after her daughter Tessa was born and diagnosed with Achondroplasia – so maybe 14-15 months ago. They lived on the East Coast and we met them in person in Nashville at the LPA National Convention last summer. They recently moved from the east coast to the west coast (Arizona) however Sarah grew up in Escalon, which is a tiny town in the central valley of CA and and along the way to our cabin in Pinecrest.

Sarah let myself and Melisa know that she and Tessa would be out in CA and passing through Sacramento in July. Melisa invited us, along with Kerri and Madilynn (who couldn’t make it) to get together for a POLP (parents of little people) get together at their community pool.

Tessa is quite the cutie and was very shy – it was a short amount of time that we were together so we didn’t get to see her as her mom described her – full of energy and non-stop talking.

Here’s Hanna cruising around

Aidan taking a break

Caty telling Aidan to come swim with me – although it was more walking around because the pool was only a foot deep

Caty and Hanna talking to Tessa

Miss Tessa

Aidan, Caty and Tessa

Tessa showing off her pink toenails

Looking forward to hopefully seeing Sarah and Tessa at our District 12 Regional in October!!

Our camping adventure…

2011-08-15T15:00:00.000-07:00

We got invited to join some friends for an overnight camping trip. With having the cabin, we have never done camping, at least with the girls.

But we thought, how bad can it be.

So we bought a tent and pack up and headed to Camp Far West with our friends, Karen, Garrett, their daughter Claire, who is Hanna’s age and their two dogs, Duke and Vena.

It took about 45 minutes to get there – quite close to home; once there we drove around and around looking for a good, available site. Now when I think about campgrounds, I think of camping in Pinecrest (where we have our cabin) – paved roads, sites that you reserve, bathrooms, showers…well not here. You can pretty much camp anywhere you can find a spot. Since we were only going for 1 night – in case none of the kids liked it – most of the spots were taken. We finally found one and started setting up camp.

After camp was set up we walked the 100 ft to the lake and spent the afternoon there with the girls playing in the water and us adults enjoying some ice cold beverages

Caty and Hanna

Claire and Duke

The guys taking the girls out

Caty and Vena

Yep, Hanna was so happy to play in the dirt – couldn’t really call it sand.

Garrett getting the girls ready to go out in the boat (which belonged to the neighboring campers – they let us use it all afternoon)

The neighbors also let us use their jet-ski. Garrett was the only one who went out on it – both Scott and I had had quite a bit to drink so we passed

Hanna trying out the tent

Caty helping Karen get dinner ready

Time for smores!!

We had such a great time. Considering we had never taken the girls before we didn’t know how they would do with sleeping in the tent. Hanna had only slept in her crib or a pack-n-play so she’s never had the “freedom” of sleeping in something that she could get out of. She did great! Went to bed around 9 and slept until 7 the next morning.

No pictures from Sunday because as soon as we were up, Claire decided that it was time to pack up and head out. We were home before 10:00.

We’re thinking about taking one more camping trip before fall comes. We’ll see if we can manage two nights (seeing as most camp sites have a 2 night minimum).

Swim lessons

2011-08-15T13:20:00.000-07:00

My parents offered to pay for swim lesson this summer which we knew that the girls needed. We found someone who would come to the house and it worked out nicely. We planned 8 classes (30 minutes for Caty and 15 for Hanna) and finished them in 4 weeks. The lessons were on Tuesdays and Wednesdays and we’d just spend the night out at my parents instead of driving back and forth.

The girls did great – except for the fact that Hanna cried for most of the lessons. Nick was a super nice, very kid friendly guy but she just didn’t like him much. She’s go to him but cry for most of the 15 minutes. Oh well, she survived and loves the pool!

Caty went from not liking getting her face wet to being able to swim almost the width of the pool in one breathe – next she’ll need to work on being able to take a breathe while swimming.

We mainly just wanted Hanna to be comfortable being in the water and not minding going under. She loves jumping off the steps and off the side. We have to remind her to say “I’m jumping” because she will whether you are watching her or not.

We’ve got two little fishies on our hands now!

Simple Woman’s Daybook – August 15th 2011

2011-08-15T12:05:00.001-07:00

For today – August 15th 2011

Outside my window... it’s already getting hot – bring on fall!

I am thankful for... the fact that school is back in session!! And especially that Caty goes all day now – that AM kindergarten just wasn’t enough time – now she’s in school from 8:30-2:35

I am wearing... shorts and a t-shirt

I am creating... lots and lots of blog posts– have so much catching up to do. I can now get to it with Caty being back at school

I am going to… start my part time job tomorrow – yes I said part time job. I found a family at Caitlyn’s school that needs after-school care, so I’ll be watching a kindergartener and 2nd graders a few days a week.

I am reading... nothing yet, haven’t decided which book to pick up from my pile of “to-read” books

I am hoping... that nothing is wrong with the house air conditioner – Scott said it was making funny noises last night. :-(

I am hearing... Max and Ruby in the background – it’s helping keep Hanna entertained

A few plans for the rest of the week… starting with the kids tomorrow, Wednesday is Caitlyn’s Back To School night, not much for me on Thursday but Scott has a tennis match that night, Friday night – heading out to the Wrangler to help a friend celebrate her birthday and to hear the CGB play, maybe some swimming this weekend at some friends house…that about sums it up.

A picture that I am sharing... Caty’s first day of 1st grade

Anaheim and the LPA National Convention

2011-08-11T14:12:00.001-07:00

Here we are over a month after our trip to Anaheim and I’m finally getting time to make my blog posts about it. Summer has been busy; July was insane!! So happy reading!

Anaheim –Part 1 – And We’re Off!

Anaheim – Part 2 – LPA Friends

Anaheim – Part 3 –Beach Day followed by a visit with family

Anaheim – Part 4 – DAAA Soccer

Anaheim – Part 5 – Happiest Place on Earth (again)

Anaheim – Part 6 – Pretend City

Yay!! Now that I’m caught up on these, I’ve got lots more to do!

Anaheim – Part 6 – Pretend City

2011-08-11T14:11:00.001-07:00

One of the outings planned (well at an additional cost) during the week was to Pretend City in Irvine. This place was beyond fun! The girls had an absolute BLAST!! The way the it worked was that the kids got “time-cards” and had to “work” in each of the areas then punch out at the end of the day.

Checking out Ralph’s Market

Working on the farm and planting strawberries

Putting on a show at the theatre

Came “home” for a break – Liz decided to play us a song

And the girls thought they needed a bath

Of course Caden found the firetruck

Made a stop at the beach

Helping build an addition to the house

Made a stop and played bean bag toss

Now they are working the desk at the Emergency Center

Liz’s brother Chase having fun in the tunnel

Working in the cafe

Always thinking :-)

Now they have moved onto being mail-ladies

Delivering some mail

Loved it when I saw Caden at the ATM machine with “his” firetruck

Time for a check-up at the dentist office

Onto the doctor’s office which was right next door

Hanna making some phone calls

Firefighter Hanna

I came back 15 minutes later from chasing Hanna around and found Lisa being checked out

Liz’ turn

And finally time for the library

What a fun place!! And the kids were exhausted!!

Anaheim – Part 5 – Happiest Place on Earth (again)!

2011-08-11T14:05:00.001-07:00

Here we are, off to Disneyland again. Yes I know, we just went back in April with my parents, but we couldn’t not go!

Meeting Minnie, who we missed last time

Family picture in front of the castle

Meeting Belle

Meeting Ariel

Meeting Tiana

Riding Small World

Caden ready to go

Tutu and niece Desiree

I love this picture of Caden!

Waiting with Caden and Ivy (who you can’t really see but she’s to Caty’s right) to ride on Dumbo

Daddy taking the girls this time

Trisha and Caden

Amy and Ivy

Waiting for Casey Junior Train

Riding the Carousel

Checking out Mickey’s House

These two were so busy the entire time we were inside Mickey’s house that I think I got 2 pictures that weren’t blurry

Kinda blurry – see what I mean about these two – but still cute

The other “clear” one

Pictures with Mickey

Driving Mickey’s car

Lunch in Downtown Disney with our POLP (parents of little people) friends

POLP Momma’s!!

Meeting Tigger

And Eeyore

We caught the tail end of Mickey’s Soundsational Parade – gotta love the princesses

Tinkerbell

Onto California Adventure and seeing the Army Guys from Toy Story

Riding Ariel’s new ride

Dinner with Payton

Huh? What are you lookin at?

Picture with my girls

Disneyland twice in just a few months – I think it will be several years before we return again. But I’ll never forget being able to spend the day at the Happiest Place on Earth with some of our dearest LPA friends.

Anaheim – Part 4 – DAAA Soccer

2011-08-11T13:56:00.001-07:00

Monday was the day that the DAAA (Dwarf Athletic Association of America) had their soccer games going on so we headed out to watch. It also happened to fall on the 4th of July

They had about 5 fields of soccer games going on – what a great time!

The one team that I wanted to see was the Statemen – they are THE team! They competed in the World Dwarf Games in 2009 which took place in Belfast Ireland. They took home the gold medal in Basketball. You might know two of the players on the team – Zach Roloff from the TLC show Little People Big World and Marty Klebba who starred in the Pirates of the Caribbean movies.

Here’s Caty posing in front of the goal with Marty in the background

Caty and I got to meet Marty last year in Nashville and spent a few minutes chatting with him - what a friendly, down to earth guy.

Zach

He’s an awesome soccer player

Amy Roloff is the coach

The next World Dwarf Games will be in 2013 and will be held in Michigan

Marty

Molly Roloff took her turn at a shootout with Marty

Mr Caden – I love this kid!

One of our chapter members, Danny competed on the team the Outlawz

Future DAAA players – Caden the goalie and Caty the forward

Talked with Amy Roloff for a few minutes after the matches – such a nice person! Afterward, once everyone was back home, she actually took the time to comment on this picture of them on Facebook

Caty can’t wait until 2014 when the National will be held in San Diego and she can compete in the DAAA games!

Anaheim – Part 3 – Beach Day followed by a visit with family

2011-08-11T13:52:00.001-07:00

The most important thing for us to do while in Southern Ca was to spend as much time with our LPA “family” as we could so on Sunday, when there wasn’t much going on at the hotel, I planned a day out in Huntington Beach. HB is about 15 miles from where the Convention Hotel was, but being a Sunday, everyone under the sun was heading there as well. We swung by the hotel and picked up the Wise family and it took us over an hour to get to HB and find somewhere to park. We’re lucky we left when we did because a few other families left 10 minutes after us and it took them 2 hours to get there – don’t you just love Southern CA and it’s traffic!

Caty and Trisha checking out the water

Caty and Caden - friends for life!

She didn’t care that the water was so cold – I’ll take Maui ocean over CA anyday!

Caden and his cars!

Hanna having fun

Caty and Liz – they became great friends during the week

Avery heading off to check things out

Working together

Such a fun day – got a little too much sun – those clouds sure can fool you!

We headed back to the hotel to drop Trisha, Caden and Dan off then drove out to Corona where my cousins live. We had a great visit with Jon, Natalia, Ella and Gavin. Jon is the son of my Uncle Barry who passed away 2 years ago from pancreatic cancer. We don’t get to see Jon, Nat and the kids too often but the kids had a great time playing together. Ella turned 2 back in January so she and Hanna aren’t too far off in age. And Gavin was born in December of this past year.

1st attempt at a group picture

Oops – we lots two of them and now Caty is getting her hair pulled

The 3 girls

Thanks Jon and Nat for having us over!

Anaheim – Part 2 – LPA friends

2011-08-11T13:48:00.001-07:00

We got lucky that this years LPA National Convention was held in Anaheim. On Saturday we headed over to the hotel and hung out in the lobby for a few hours, just waiting for our friends to come by…and they sure did.

Here’s Caty with the LPA sign

Caty and Haley (from Eureka CA)

Caty and Liz (from Crown Point IN)

Caty with Nikki and Kylie (from Apple Valley MN)

Caty, Hanna and Galy (from Ontario CA)

Caty and Avery (from Derry NH)

We headed out to dinner with several of our POLP (parents of little people) friends – yummy pizza!!

Hanna and Ivy (Baldwin MD)

Tonya (Greenville MO)

Caty and Caden (Wenatchee WA)

With some friends at lunch

Caty and Payton (Fresno CA)

With Liz and Lisa (IN)

What fun we had seeing out LPA friends!!