Bourne Identity

Pumpkin

2009-11-24T12:02:00.002-05:00

One minor detail we forgot this Halloween. We forgot to carve the pumpkin. Brandon worked all day on Saturday and here we were w/o a carved pumpkin. Becca and Donny had come over and thankfully she knew how to carved a pumpkin. I had never done it, and you don't want me around knives. ;)

Catie and Ethan worked together to design how they wanted it cut! This is the result of this years pumpkin!

Ethan's School Fall Party

2009-11-24T11:55:00.003-05:00

Ethan playing, while I run, Pumpkin Tic Tac Toe. We rolled two dice and either did addition or subtraction.

I am also the homeroom mom for Ethan's class. We did a similar party for his class also. The only difference was the craft. We did his party right after Caties.

Catie's School Fall Party

2009-11-24T11:43:00.003-05:00

Catie and Theresa sitting next to each other at the game table

Mrs. Ramsey...Catie's 2nd grade teacher

I am not sure what I was doing, but it must have been important :)

On October 30, Catie's class had a fall party. I am the homeroom mom, so I planned and helped with the party. The kids and teacher got to dress up for the day.

The craft was a spider. Catie is normally afraid of spiders. I showed her the craft ahead of time and she really thought that it was cute.

Gymnast and Punk Rocker

2009-11-23T08:56:00.003-05:00

Halloween Day: (well, the day before it anyway) The kids got to dress up for school. Ethan's grade needed to dress up as Punk Rockers. He looks so good with his hair spiked like that. He loved having it done!

Caties grade could dress up however they wanted to. Catie didn't want to do anything to big, so she went as a gymnast. It was kind of nice since she had gymnastics after school that day. I just put her hair up in a ponytail, put some make up on her and called it a costume.

It was Brandon's idea to put the chain around E's neck. Both their outfits turned out great for school!

Ethan's Trophy

2009-11-23T08:40:00.003-05:00

On October 27, we went back to the same place to have Ethan's teams banquet. The Express had a fun evening also. Ethan was given the title "The Hustler".

Catie's Trophy

2009-11-23T08:26:00.002-05:00

On October 24 we had the Angels soccer banquet.

Catie got her trophy. She got the title "Top Scorer" for the season.

Lakshmi, who was the team mom, got cupcakes that were soccer balls. They looked more like spider web cakes. All the girls ended up with black faces, hands, and teeth. It was so funny to see all the black icing everywhere! It was a fun night and a good end to a wonderful soccer season.

Pumpkin "Patch" 2009

2009-11-23T08:04:00.004-05:00

Okay, not really a pumpkin patch. With our busy schedule and weather, we did not have time to go to a real pumpkin patch. We went to a country store type to get our pumpkins and get some pictures. The good thing is this store has a set up for people to get pictures.

I didn't get as many pictures as I normally do, but it started raining on us while we were there. I still like the pictures that we got though. (10-23-09)

Family Soccer Pictures 2009

2009-11-14T12:09:00.003-05:00

Ethan and I after his very last game!

Coach Brandon talking with the kids during half time of their last game

Coach Stacy talking with the girls before their last game starts

These pictures were taken on the very last day of soccer games.

These are just some odds and ends pictures I wanted to share from the last day of soccer!

(10-24-09)

Catie and Hobie at the Park

2009-11-14T10:16:00.002-05:00

One sunny afternoon we took the kids and the dog to the park. Ethan and Brandon played soccer. Right next to the field is a playground. While the boys played soccer, Catie and I played with Hobie on the equipment.

I took him down the slide once and he loved it, so Catie took him down and through the tubes. We all had so much fun. This park is so close that we can walk to it and enjoy the great outdoors as a family!

Catie's 2nd Grade Surprise

2009-11-14T09:48:00.003-05:00

In the second grade parents surprise their kids by showing up at school to see their classroom. We bring blankets, lunch, and their favorite books. We brought a Junie B Jones and a Hannah Montana book for reading. She looked over those books but chose to read to us her library book, The Polar Express.

We read to her, got a couple of pictures, and then had lunch with her. Theresa's dad came so all five of us had lunch in the classroom together and had a good time laughing and chatting! I love how the school gives us opportunities like this!

(9-24-09)

Hobie Likes Soccer

2009-11-14T09:28:00.003-05:00

Soccer games would not be complete without Hobie. He loved going to the games and interacting with people and other dogs that came to the games. He was always so well behaved and had so much fun running around. I am sure he never got tired of people coming up to pet him and tell him how cute he is!

Since Brandon and I were coaching, Hobie would hang out with other family. Mommaw would keep him with her quite often. I taught him how to drink out of a water bottle and we would have a small bag of dog food for him to munch on if he was getting hyper. Rarely did we have to feed him to calm him down though.

Ethan's Soccer 2009

2009-11-14T09:16:00.003-05:00

Less then a minute later, this was a goal!

All warmed up, ready to get the game started!

Getting the opportunity to play goalie one time!

Here comes the Hustler!!!

This year Ethan play for Valley AFC on the U10 boys team. He played on the bigger fields this year. Brandon was the head coach and I was the assistant coach for the guys team. Ethan, like his sister, chose to have the jersey #2.

Ethan was "the Hustler" for his team. He played mostly mid field and offense. He also scored and I got a picture right before the goal. Unfortanelty I missed the actual pictures of the goals. I was too busy cheering!!!

One game he got to play goalie. He really enjoyed it. We feel his strength though is play offense.

Catie's soccer 2009

2009-11-14T08:20:00.005-05:00

She may look sweet and girly, but don't be fooled. Catie is one tough soccer player!

This is the picture Nana got right before she scored a goal!

This is just a close up of the shot above.

Here is the celebration of Catie scoring the goal! We were just as proud as she was. The look on her face is priceless! Way to go player 2

Here are a few pictures of Catie playing soccer. This year, playing for Valley AFC, she played in the U8 girls division. I was the head coach and Brandon and Tara were my assistant coaches. We had 14 girls on the team. Catie was our lead scorer this year. Since there were not too many girls team (3 total) we played quite a few boys team. Playing the boys did not slow our girls down. They, for the most part, kept playing just as aggressive against the boys. The girls did not back down or stop from "running over the boys"

I love these pictures of Catie here. She got the ball and took it all the way to score. We didn't get a picture of the actual goal, but did get a picture of her cheering afterward!

Nana and Gapa come to town

2009-11-14T07:38:00.005-05:00

Mommaw, Poppaw and Gapa at Ethan's soccer game.

Catie and Nana cuddling in between quarters at Ethan's soccer game. Catie played next!

With soccer season in full swing, Nana and Gapa came to town to see us and the kids play soccer. It was fun having them and they enjoyed seeing the kids play and the parents coach! They also got to me Hobie for the first time. This visit was the weekend of September 12.

Another Year Older

2009-11-09T10:12:00.002-05:00

It has been a winding road full of adventures to get where I am today. Soon I will be in my mid 30's. I am going to enjoy these last months of being in my young 30's.

I am at Olive Garden with my family celebrating my birthday.

The day before this picture was taken I hurt my pelvic and lower back during the U 10 boys soccer practice.

Here it is, the second week of November and I am still dealing with this issue. I don't know what is wrong yet. I have to have a bone scan. I have been to different doctors trying to find out if I can avoid hip replacement surgery. Some day I will need the surgery. Later is better though.

I just take it one day at a time and just hope it will be a good day with as little pain as possible.

Though I am in my 30's, some days I feel like I am in my 70's. Hey, at least I don't look it. ;)

First Day of School

2009-11-09T09:00:00.005-05:00

These are the backpacks that my kids picked this year. Catie picked a cute flowered pattern with frogs and Ethan chose a Bakugan one.

Here is my 2nd and 3rd graders!

See, they really do like each other ;)

My handsome son!

My beautiful princess!

The kids were so excited when they saw the bus coming!!!

I have not forgotten about this blog. You would think with school starting a few months ago I would have plenty of time. Well that didn't happen. I am going to take some time and play catch up here!

The first day of school was August 24, 2009. Ethan is in 3rd grade and Catie (Catherine at school) is in 2nd grade. Ethan has Mrs. Atkins and Catie has Mrs. Ramsey.

Every year I take the same pictures on both the first and last day of schools. Just from the last few years it is amazing to see how much they have grown and changed. It is fun to see the backpacks that they pick out and the style of clothes they want to wear.

In Loving Memory: Betty Fitzgerald 1929-2009

2009-07-31T19:05:00.003-04:00

Betty Fitzgerald went to be with the Lord on Thursday July 30, 2009.

She was a wonderful mother to my friend Beth and Barry. She was GaGa to two handsome grandsons, Cameron and Josh. She was a loving sister to Pete.

She was loved and respected and a child of God. She touched the lives of those who knew her.

Betty was a nurse before retiring.

She will be missed by those she left behind. We look forward to meeting up with her in Heaven.

I feel so blessed to have met this incredible woman, mother and grandmother.

May Betty's memory be eternal.

(the above picture is GaGa with Beth)

Hobie and Emmy Puppy Playdate

2009-07-31T17:11:00.002-04:00

Hobie had his second puppy playdate this afternoon. His first one was with Lakshmi's dog Rosie. I got a couple pictures, but most of them were blurry.

Lisa and her family brought over Emmy (and a toy bone for Hobie...thanks). Graham got some cute pictures of the cute puppies.

Our darling puppy even earned himself a nickname. Humpy Hobie. Gah...not even 3 months and he is a typical male. ;)

They had fun, it was fun to watch. Though I feel a little bad for Emmy, Hobie is still pure puppy and just did not calm down. We still have a Hyper Hobie!

Oh, Hobie went to the vet today to get another round of shots. I *thought* he would be calmer. He was before and after the visit. Anyway at the vet he weighed in at exactly 5 pounds. He has doubled in weight since we got him!

11 Wonderful Years

2009-07-30T18:55:00.002-04:00

On Saturday July 25 Brandon and I celebrated 11 wonderful years of marriage.

I can't believe it has already been 11 years. Brandon's lucky number is 11, my lucky number is 25. But it has taken way more than luck to make it this far.

We don't have a perfect marriage, seeing as there is no such thing. But we are perfect for one another. We are so different, but it works out!

We have had our fair share of disagreements and arguments. Thankfully our marriage is so much more than that. We are the other side of each other. We respect one another and adore one another. We are proud of how far we have come through this journey. We are in it "until death do us part".

Through our love, we have the two most amazing children. The four of us are happy as a family and nothing can break that apart.

I love you husband and friend. (I love you more than you love me ;) )

Hobie Videos

2009-07-30T17:25:00.004-04:00

Here are 2 videos of Hobie that we have taken so far.

One of them is funny at the end. It is a little over a minute but worth it at the end.

The other video is normally the only time that Hobie barks!

Massanutten Water Park

2009-07-30T16:16:00.003-04:00

This past Tuesday evening, Brandon took the kids a couple hours down the road to Massanutten. They have an indoor water park. This is the first time that Brandon has taken the kids on a mini vacation.

Mommaw and Poppaw kept the dog. I had the entire house to myself for almost 48 hours. It was wonderful. I was happy to see everyone come home though.

Here is a video and pictures!

I will post more videos in the next post!

Hobie wan Kenobi Bourne

2009-07-21T08:41:00.004-04:00

Aunt Kristin with Hobie on Monday the 6th.

Catie fell in love with Hobie right away.

Walt, aka Grandaddy, and Ethan loved him at first sight also.

Sunday July 12, the day Hobie came to his new home!

What a cutie!!!

His first bath here. He didn't seem to mind at all!

His first trip out with us. We took him to Nature's Emporium (pet store) to get some treats and a new toy from us.

We got a puppy! Well first Aunt Kristin got a puppy and named him Hobie. Kristin graciously gave Hobie to us. Thanks girl!

Hobie is half shih tzu half bichon. So he is called a zuchon. AKA the Teddy Bear dog.

Kristin got Hobie on Monday July 6. We got Hobie on Sunday July 12, 2009

Hobie was born on May 3. He is a cutie and such a smart dog, with the cutest little bark. Thankfully he doesn't bark much.

Ethan loves to play with the dog and Catie loves to pet and love on the dog.

He is full puppy, that is for sure. He keeps us busy, that is for sure. But Hobie is so worth it.

A couple days ago I was calling his name and added wan Kenobi to the end. So now that is his middle name.

Since he is so small we have to watch where we walk. You can normally find him in the kitchen or underneath my feet.

Hobie, without a doubt, will be one spoiled dog.

I have been working on training him. He can sit and come when his name is called. He is learning no...most of the time ;) We still are working on the puppy biting and using the pad to potty. It will come with time.

Hobie is loved by all of us and is a great addition to this family!

Thanks again Kristin!

Changing settings on blog

2009-07-18T13:20:00.002-04:00

I am trying to customize this blog more. I am still working on it and trying to figure out how to change it all the way.
If you read this and have any tips or knowledge, let me know please.
Thanks!

Swimming with Aunt Kristin

2009-07-18T11:17:00.002-04:00

On Monday July 6 the kids were taken to the pool by Aunt Kristin. They swam and ate lunch there. A little later Brandon and I showed up to swim with the kids. Since they both can swim now it is so much more fun. Ethan went on the slide a few times and raced each of us. Catie is not quite ready to go down the slide, but she will soon!

Fourth of July

2009-07-18T10:18:00.005-04:00

Ethan, Cameron, Josh, and Catie!

One of Catie's favortie food...hot dogs!

Our wonderful hostess, Beth!

Beth and Josh

I actually got to light some fireworks! No trip to the ER ;)

Beth and Cameron. This was Cameron's first time with sparklers.

On fourth of July we went to the Bohmers for a cookout and fireworks. We had a great time. Brandon had to work, so after we left Beth's house we went to his restaurant for dessert and hang out a little bit.

Each year I take some of the same poses on the 4th. It is neat to see how the kids change each year. Here are a few of this years pictures.

Red Robin

2009-07-04T09:41:00.003-04:00

Last night I went to Red Robin with Lakshmi and Kim (also with their girls) to Red Robin. After dinner we headed to the mall! It was a fun time for a girls night out.

My inlaws had the kids so it was nice to have fun out and not worry about them. Lakshmi loved the glasses that her drink came in. I had to get a picture for her!

Ethan's Birthday Pool Party

2009-07-03T13:03:00.005-04:00

It is hard having a pool party in December, so we celebrated Ethan's birthday party (with his friends) on Saturday, June, 27.

He had a great time with his friends. We were lucky that he had just gained the confidence to swim in the deep end less then a week before his party!
Here is my handsome Birthday Boy in the pool!

Brandon with some of the kids enjoying the pool.

Josh, Cameron, Ethan and Garrett.

Beth and Josh!

A birthday for Ethan would not be complete without a Pokemon gift!

In the back is Cameron and Catie. Right to left is Garrett, Josh T., Ethan, Josh S., Nate and Jay!

Sexy Mama aka Beth!

Lisa (Garrett's mom)

Sally aka Grandma, who with Walt hosted the party!

Finally, the Happy Birthday Boy. I think his smile says it all!

We could not have asked for more perfect weather at Hunting Hills Country Club that day.

It had rained a whole lot the past month so I am glad the weather held out for us!

Not to take away from Ethan's birthday party at all, but Catie learned how to swim with confidence this day also!

We are so proud of her. She has always been afraid to go underwater or swim where she cannot stand.

Well, seeing all of Ethan's friend swim, she gained the confidence! She knew how to swim in theory, just not practice yet!

So now we FINALLY have two kids who can swim! I am very proud of the both of them!

Here is the picture of my Beautiful Princess, who is now a swimmer!

Catherine Bourne the Gymnast

2009-07-03T12:22:00.002-04:00

Last night was her first gymnastics class.

Grandma bought her a new pink leotard. Catie sure is pretty in pink.

She is taking gymnastics at the Roanoke Gymnastics Academy. Since Catherine is a cheerleader we thought this would help with cheering. Her cheerleading coach strongly encouraged us to put her in gymnastics.

I wish that I could get pictures of her during class, but I don't think you can. I will try next practice ;)

Playing with my scrap supplies

2009-07-03T11:59:00.003-04:00

This is the front cover. I left the journal block blank so she could decide what she wanted to use the book for.

The picture on the bottom is the back of the book. Plain and flat.

Last week I had a little bit of problem with my printer. It would not print. Not a good thing.

I had been out of town for two weeks and was itching to play with my supplies. I needed to create something. Set aside I had this chipboard album that needed to be decorated. (Not a big fan of saying it is altered). So I decided to make this book for a friend. She used to scrap, she needs to start again. I thought this book would help. ;)

It was so fun to pull out my supplies and just create something since it has been so long that I have done a project outside of doing a layout.

BTW, my printer works now. I get to scrap my Disney vacation!!!

Tower of Terror

2009-07-02T21:32:00.004-04:00

I have so much to post and so little time lately. I had to post this video that my brother took of my daughter and me (don't laugh at how silly I look ;) ) .

My brother Jeff is on the right, Catie is in the middle and I am on the left. The rest of the family is to my right.

Thanks Uncle/Brother Jeff for filming this!

Forgot the Layout

2009-05-30T09:38:00.003-04:00

Since I am scrapping again, I had already gotten a layout done of the field trip to Apple Ridge Farms!

It has been fun scrapbooking again. I actually will be posting two more layouts I did a little later. Maybe today???

Apple Ridge Farm

2009-05-30T09:19:00.004-04:00

Last Friday Catie had a field trip to Apple Ridge Farms. She is in first grade and this was their last field trip for the year. Even with the shadows I love this picture.

Catie took this picture of a dead tree! She did a great job taking this picture.

I have to laugh at this picture. With her right hand she is holding up her pants. With her left hand she is holding a net. If you can see the bottom of her pants (and her shoes) are wet. While trying to catch little critters in the stream she slipped in to the water. I so wish I had a picture of that! :)

Look at her trying so hard not to slip in again. She barely got to the water for fear of getting more muddy and wet!

Brandon also helped chaperone (the only picture of him he is holding my purse) and took the picture of me on one of the small bridges. It was chilly out there in the woods.

The entire first grade from the school broke up into smaller groups. The learned about nature, habitats and different insects, fish and trees! Catie took a whole bunch of pictures of her friends and I got a couple great shots of Catie and her friends.

Brandon and I didn't ride the bus with the kids. The roads twist and turns a whole bunch and I did not want to get bus sick. LOL

"Cleaning" the deck

2009-05-30T08:14:00.004-04:00

It all started out innocently. I need to hose and scrub the back area. The sun was out, but it was a little cool. Catie wanted to help, so I let her. She would get sprayed when the water would splash off the side of the house. Getting sprayed a little is just not enough. She wanted more. Ethan came out and loved what he saw. So what is a mom suppose to do?

Trap them in a corner and spray them real well of course!

The kids helper AKA Daddy, decided the kids needed cups. I wonder what for?

Oh, I see, so I can get wet!

Well, if they use these weapons on me, I must use them on the kids also!

It was a little chilly, not cold, but look the kids are all smiles! The deck looks beautiful...the kids and I got wet...we all had fun!

Next time we need to drench Brandon since he had the camera!

I love days like these. You get your chores done but have a blast as a family doing them!

My Second Tattoo

2009-05-29T08:17:00.002-04:00

A couple months ago I had gotten my second tattoo. My first one is on my right wrist, my second is now on my left wrist. My first tattoo is the symbol for wife. My second is the symbol for mother.

I hade designed a tattoo in college that I am still deciding where to put. When I decide and get it...I am done getting tattoos. I love having them and love what I decided on!

Game Ball

2009-05-28T09:40:00.002-04:00

Ethan is playing on the Mariners this year. This is his fourth year playing baseball. He is improving each and every year. Each game a player gets the game ball for playing well. Ethan got his on May 2, 2009. The game was tied and my son hit the ball and had a RBI. The ended up "winning" the game. We are so proud of him and his hard work. His willingness to learn, be coached and enthusiasm is amazing.

I found out that if he just holds the bat on how it comes natural to him, he hits so much better!

I love the look of excitement on his face!

Easter Outfits

2009-05-09T19:27:00.003-04:00

Easter was a lot different this year. We were out of town while Brandon had to stay here and work. We still dyed eggs and went to church. The Easter bunny did find out where we were staying, so the kids got their baskets.

I just wanted to show some pictures of the kids in their outfits. It was windy, so Catie had to keep pushing the hair out of her eyes. They still look wonderful though. At least to me...the Mom!

Where Do We Go From Here?

2009-04-25T17:08:00.003-04:00

This song keeps going through my head over and over again.

Life has been great. Life has been horrible. Life has been beautiful. Life has been ugly. Life has been happy. Life has been sad. Life has been surprising. Good surprises. Bad surprises. Life has ended for someone close to my family growing up.

Live life to your fullest. Hold on to those whom you love and to whom love you.

Guard your heart when you need to, open your heart when you need to.

No matter what I know, I don't know the answer to: Where do we go from here. I do know that I am blessed beyond measure to take this journey with my husband and kids.

Life is a blessing. I am blessed and loved. Life is good!

I am still alive!

2009-01-26T10:45:00.002-05:00

What a week it has been. For the record, I hate strep throat. There I said it :)
It has been a tough week being sick. I feel like most of the week has been wasted.
I have a lot to do to catch up. I really wanted to post some pictures of the kids and what they have been up to.

Ethan is playing basketball for Upwards and I am his coach. Catie is cheering for Upwards. They both love this league so much! I am also referring some of the other games, so Saturdays have been extremely busy.

Brandon has been working a lot...as always. The good thing is that he is working days and he is now home in the evenings with the family. It is so nice to have him here with me and the kids.

The kids have gotten back into the routine of school and sports. It took a little bit after Christmas break.

Maybe one of these days I will have time to upload some pictures to this blog. I have so many that I want to share.

Ethan is home sick today, so we are going to play Wii together. He just has a cold, but is coughing like crazy. It would be so hard for him (and classmates) to concentrate with his hacking. I hope he can get rid of this cough so he can go back to school tomorrow.

A New Year...A New Word...A New Goal

2009-01-03T16:51:00.002-05:00

Farewell to 2008...it was a good year.

I am hoping that 2009 will also be a good year. Scratch that, I am going for great!
I haven't updated my blog since the end of November. I really want to keep up with it better.

Anyway I have a word for 2009. I got the idea while reading Two Peas. Some found it from Ali Edwards blog. This is an excerpt from her blog:

"Can you identify a single word that sums up what you want for yourself in 2009? It can be something tangible or intangible. It could be a thought or a feeling or an emotion. It can be singular or plural. The key is to find something that has personal meaning for you. This is not your mother's word or your spouse's word or your child's word - this is YOUR word. One little word can have big meaning in your life if you allow yourself to be open to the possibilities. And here's one thing that is totally interesting: sometimes a word will pop into your brain and it will not make any sense to you right now. Give it some time. Let it percolate a bit. I have often found that our hearts speak to us in very unique ways. Maybe this is a word you need to hear but just aren't ready for it yet. Again, be open to the possibilities. I can't wait to see all the words for 2009. " So...what's YOUR word for 2009?

So...I have chosen my word for 2009. It is POSITIVE. My plan it to be more positive. I want to have a positive outlook with things going on. I want to look at the positive in ANY situation. Now don't get me wrong, I do not have plans to be all sunshine and flowers all the time. I know I would annoy myself LOL! (not to mention those around me ;) )

One goal that I have for this year is to start scrapbooking again. I did not scrap much this year, and I really miss it. So I guess you can say my New Years resolution is to start scrapping again. I may set up goals here and there along the way, but that is it. I don't want it to be pressure, I want scrapping to be enjoyable.

I plan to, in the next couple of days, to post some pictures from the holidays.

All I want for Christmas is my two front teeth.

2008-11-25T20:10:00.002-05:00

On the twelfth of this month Ethan lost his fourth tooth. This particular tooth just did not want to come out. It was "hanging" there for about a week before it finally was pulled by his daddy.

Now Ethan can really sing, "All I want for Christmas is my two front teeth"!

Soccer Trophies

2008-11-25T15:53:00.003-05:00

Ethan got his soccer trophy from his Coach Jim. He also got the "Most Versatile Player" award. Coach talked about how Ethan could be put anywhere one the field (offense or defense) and E would hustle and do good. Coach could always depend on him to do his best and play great!

I loved how is Coach really encouraged Ethan and how much Ethan loves soccer now!

Brandon and I were the coaches for Catie's team. It was fun to be able to pick out the trophies for the team. We gave Catie the "Most Aggressive" award. That girl would run after that ball if it came anywhere near her. She was not afraid to get in "the mix" even with the boys. If she wanted that ball, she went for it. We were very proud of her enthusiasm for this sport.

Ethan and Catie are both natural soccer players. Not surprising since this sport it Brandon's first love, and I was not half bad when I played! ;)

It was a wonderful soccer season all around and we are all looking forward to play soccer again!

Gumball Machine

2008-11-25T15:26:00.003-05:00

My friend, Beth B, had this wonderful gumball machine that she was going to give away. Well, she gave it to me. I can't believe my luck. This is the exact gumball machine that I had growing up. I *believe* it was my mom's when she was a little girl. I know that the gumball machine in my home is from Beth's husband, Doug, from when he was a child.

I love having it in my home for my kids, it brings back memories.

I keep a container of pennies so people can "buy" a piece of gum! What fun!

First Communion...sort of

2008-11-10T09:39:00.004-05:00

My son had a communion, though he wasn't suppose to. We need to wait to get him baptised first. There was more to this story but it has all been taken care of.

Halloween

2008-11-07T08:35:00.003-05:00

On Halloween Day the kids had their Fall parties at school. I am the homeroom mom for both kids, so I was in charge of their parties. I am so thankful for great parents who also helped with the parties.

Brandon was off that day so he came to school with me. Ethan's party was at 8:15 in the morning and Catie's was at 1:00pm.

After all the phonecalls, notes to parents, meetings, shopping and preparing of food, I was so tired. But it was all worth it since the kids had a blast. We had to have a craft, snack, game, and another activity for each class. I also had to make 41 goodie bags for both classes.

Unfortunately, my camera battery was dead, so I did not get one single picture. At least it was charged by the time we took the kids trick or treating.

After the kids got home from school they played a little bit while Brandon carved the pumpkin. After the kids were ready we took them to the local mall where they got a TON of candy.

Mommaw and Poppaw met us there so we could get a picture of them with the kids. Sally and Walt showed up later inside the mall.

When we came home from the mall Bran, Sally, and Walt took them trick or treating around the neighborhood. I stayed home and passed out candy to the trick or treaters at our door.

My favorite trick or treaters were when E and C came and rang our doorbell. Bran even got a picture!

The kids had so much fun passing out candy when they got home! It was fun for them to experience trick or treating by getting and passing out candy!

Luckily none of us were sick this year. We had a busy but fun day celebrating Halloween with only treats, no tricks.

Hannah Montana

2008-11-07T08:23:00.003-05:00

Catie wanted to dress up like Hannah. Beth B did her nails the day before and I did her make-up.

I swear she looks 12 in these pictures. I can't believe how she looks. Catie asked me when I could do her make-up like this again. Uh, how about next Halloween LOL.

Her costume was also easy. We bought her a wig and microphone and used her play jewelry.

Jedi

2008-11-07T07:48:00.004-05:00

Here is my Jedi aka Ethan.

Ethan did not want to do a fancy costume, he just wanted a light saber and a cloak to go as a Jedi!

I don't know if you can tell but the light saber lights up blue.

I think it is so cute how he would hold his saber every single time that I would hold up my camera to take his picture!

Halloween Decorations

2008-11-07T07:27:00.004-05:00

Here are a couple pictures of our indoor decorations and our pumpkin. I didn't get any pictures of our outside, since there are only a few.

I love pumpkins and have more in the house, yet I forgot to take pictures. The colors of fall or so beautiful. I really hope this year I can take the kids to get their annual fall pictures.

The pumpkin with the American flag was made by Brandon for work. He sure did an awesome job!!!

Nana and Gapa Come to Town

2008-11-07T07:04:00.003-05:00

On the weekend of the 17th my mom and dad came to visit us. I love it when they come here. Though I know the kids enjoy it just as much as I do.

Nana and Gapa came to see the kids play soccer that weekend. Ethan had an awesome game and played defense so well. Catie scored in her game and was so excited that Nana and Gapa got to see her score.

It was so cold out on the field, but we kept warm with coffee and blankets.

I had to get a picture of my dad with my McCain/Palin sign!

Next weekend we will be seeing them again. Can't wait!

Lookin' Good Hot Stuff

2008-11-07T07:00:00.003-05:00

This is my good friend Beth B. I had to have a post dedicated to her and her smokin' hot new harido!
Beth has 2 sons and they are both friends with my kids. It is great because we can have time together when the kids are at school or spend time together when the kids play.
You know that friend that you can call when you are excited, or mad, or any emotion? Well she is one of mine. You know that friend that you trust to watch your kids, or who trusts you to watch their kids? Well, we have that type of friendship.

I love this quote and it is dedicated to Beth B. "Whoever says that diamonds are a girls best friend, never met my friends." Thanks girl for EVERYTHING!!! :)
Here are some pictures of Beth doing Catie's nails and painting them purple. We picked purple to match C's Halloween costume.

Tooth Fairy

2008-10-22T21:46:00.003-04:00

Ethan finally lost one of his front teeth. It was extremely loose and all that Becca, a friend of the family, had to do was twist the tooth and out it came.
There was no way that I could be the one to pull it. Seeing a loose tooth or the idea of pulling one just gives me the heebie jeebies. *shudder*

Thankfully Becca was here to pull...well twist it for me! It did not hurt or bother E in the least. His other front tooth is a little loose and should come out shortly. All I have to say is that I hope that Becca or Bran is around so I don't have to pull it :)

The tooth fairy came that night and gave E some money. Grandparents and great-grandparents also gave him some money!

With all the money that he got Ethan got himself a husky Build-A-Bear.

I Am A Christian

2008-10-10T22:05:00.003-04:00

When I say ... "I am a Christian"
I am not shouting "I am saved;"
I am whispering "I get lost"
"That is why I choose this way."
When I say ... "I am a Christian"
I do not speak of this with pride.
I am confessing that I stumble
and need someone to be my guide.
When I say ... "I am a Christian"
I am not trying to be strong.
I am professing that I am weak
and pray for strength to carry on.
When I say ... "I am a Christian"
I am not bragging of success.
I am admitting I have failed
and cannot ever pay the debt.
When I say ... "I am a Christian"
I am not claiming to be perfect.
My flaws are too visible
but God believes I am worth it.
When I say ... "I am a Christian"
I still feel the sting of pain.
I have my share of heartaches
which is why I seek His name.
When I say ... "I am a Christian"
I do not wish to judge.
I have no authority
I only know I am loved.

author Carol Wimmer

I just read this poem for the first time tonight. I love it and give it a big AMEN!

THIS IS NOTRE DAME

2008-10-10T17:52:00.005-04:00

My trip was absolutely awesome! I could not have asked for a better trip.

I was quite nervous flying, since I haven't done alone since I became a wife and mother. The flight was not bad at all thankfully.

It was great spending time with my dad, uncle and meeting my cousin's husband.
I took over 300 pictures from the weekend alone.

Notre Dame played and (of course) beat Stanford!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! The score was 28-21. Even though the score was close, the game was not.

I love the campus, it is amazing. I can't believe the cafeteria, it was huge. I would have totally gained the "freshmen fifteen" if I ate there every day.

I can't say much about the hotel we stayed in, except... NEVER AGAIN. Enough said!

One of the many things that was going through my mind was how I would love to share this experience with my son. My husband is not a big football fan, but I am working on that. He will check out games while I am watching, but I can't see him tuning into a game if I am not home. I did watch the game on my DVR when I got home and showed him a few things and telling him what the crowd was saying during certain games.

Once again I wanted to thank my dad and mom for this trip. I also want to thank my Uncle Mike for telling me all about his college days at Notre Dame and h ow the campus has changed.

I also want to say a special thank you to Beth St. Clair for letting me borrow her Vera Bradley purse. It was a lifesaver. You will be getting it back in a few months err, I mean days. LOL!

Here are a few pictures from my trip. I have so many that I would love to show but am trying to narrow them down.

Cheer Cheer for ole' Notre Dame

2008-10-01T17:24:00.002-04:00

I cannot wait until Saturday. I will be at the game in South Bend Indiana!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Can you feel my excitement?

That is right I will be there in the stands cheering on my favorite team.

I will be flying out Friday and coming home Sunday. My dad, uncle and cousin are all going.

I can't wait for all the picture opportunities. Notre Dame has the most beautiful campus. I am thrilled with the opportunity to go there again. Thanks Dad and Mom. :)

One of these years I would love to take my son to see a game.

Catie or Catherine?

2008-09-30T10:07:00.002-04:00

Her full name is Catherine. We call her Catie mostly. Now sometimes I do call her Catherine, but overall she goes by Catie.

My dad always wanted a Catie, but he adopted a Stacy. My middle name is Catherine though and I dropped my maiden name and then named my DD Catherine, and go by Catie.

For about a week now she has told me that she wants to go by Catherine at school. She asked me to write the teacher and tell her to have her and C's friend to call her Catherine.

Ummm, now I have NO PROBLEM her wanting to go by Catherine. I really wanted to give her the option, but I *thought* she would wait until she was older.

My little girl is growing up too quick.

I did call her teacher, who is a good friend of the family, and talked to her about it last night.

I have mixed emotions about this. I love seeing her happy but am sad that she is growing up as quick as she is.

I honestly don't know what name she will stick with, or if she will switch back and forth. So for now, I will let her and the teacher decide what she is called at school, and I will continue calling her both.

The picture is Catie/Catherine on her last birthday. It was a Hannah Montanna theme. I just love her pink hair! My little Princess :)

Introducing my husband!!!

2008-09-29T16:24:00.002-04:00

My blog would not be complete without a post dedicated to the best husband on the face of this earth-Brandon.

We have been married for 10 wonderful years. An entire decade with the man I love. What more could a girl ask for? Well, two beautiful kids ;)

The picture is one my favorites of Bran and I. It was taken at Myrtle Beach.

The other pictures is a picture of one of my 10 year anniversary gift. I finally got a tattoo. I have wanted one forever and finally got it. The tattoo is located on my right inner wrist. It is the Kanji Japanese symbol for wife. I love it, he loves it. Perfect!

Soccer Soccer Soccer

2008-09-29T15:41:00.003-04:00

Both my wondeful kids play soccer this year. Let me tell you, they are good and love it.

It is so fun to watch them play and see the excitement in their face.

Ethan plays for the Flames and Catie plays for the Flamethrowers. Catie just LOVES being the Flamethrowers since E is the Flames. (Get it? :) )

Brandon and I are the coaches for C's team. It is so much fun. What helps is that we have a good team and supportive parents. These kids are amazing and have improved so much since the beginning of the season.

I can hardly talk about soccer without sharing some pictures!

I want to thank my friend's ,*L*, husband for taking the pictures of Catie. He has a real nice camera and since I am out on the field being a ref/coach, I am unable to take pictures.

That is all for now. I have to take my son to...of course, soccer!

Fruit

2008-09-29T15:28:00.003-04:00

If you need to buy fruit check your local grocery store, farmers market, or your neighbor's yard. LOL

(Inside joke) My friend told me to do this. Thanks Beth B. Hope you enjoy!!! :) Love ya girl

Welcome to my blog

2008-09-26T00:17:00.002-04:00

Wow! I cannot believe I am actually starting a blog. I never thought I would be starting a blog, yet here I am.

I will write more later, I just wanted to set it up to get started. It is past midnight and I have to wake up soon to get the kids ready for school!