My Ladybuggs

1st Day of School

2010-08-20T14:19:00.001-05:00

Myrtle Beach

2010-06-26T11:44:00.002-05:00

My Baby is 5 Years Old!

2010-06-17T09:45:00.001-05:00

Only big kids here!

2010-05-19T08:45:00.003-05:00

Yesterday was Peyton's last day of preschool...EVER! It was a teary day saying goodbye to friends and teachers...and Peyton was a little sad too :) I can't believe my baby is going to be a Kindergartener!

They really are monkeys...

2010-05-19T07:05:00.003-05:00

Easter

2010-05-19T06:59:00.002-05:00

must...catch...up!

2010-05-19T06:48:00.003-05:00

Boy, am I behind on 2010..

At the beginning of the year, Barrett won an award for an essay/drawing she completed for Catholic Schools Week. Hers was chosen from all students at her school Kindergarten through 2nd grade. They will use her drawing in Marketing materials for new parish families. We were so proud!

Grammys at Grandmas

2010-02-01T16:17:00.006-06:00

Arriving on the red carpet...

Selena Gomez and Taylor Swift

Baking Cookies

2009-12-23T09:06:00.004-06:00

First Snow/Santa's Visit

2009-12-23T08:50:00.006-06:00

The girls make the most of the first "snow"!

Princess Tea Party

2009-12-15T15:48:00.003-06:00

1st Annual Christmas Princesses Tea Party at Great Grandma Shirl's house. All 15 of the little princesses were in attendance!

Too Big!

2009-12-11T08:10:00.004-06:00

Barrett and I went to Peyton's preschool and Barrett was the Mystery Reader for the class. Peyton was so surprised and all smiles. She told all her friends with pride "That's My Sister!" Barrett read like a pro -- it was a proud moment for Mommy!

Celebrating Seven!

2009-12-11T08:05:00.002-06:00

Oh Christmas Tree

2009-12-11T08:00:00.002-06:00

Pumpkin Patch

2009-10-18T17:42:00.003-05:00

1st day of 1st grade

2009-08-19T20:50:00.002-05:00

New school supplies - check

New backpack - check

Teacher of her choice - check

Best buddy in her class - check

ONE CUTE FIRST GRADER- check, check

Happy Birthday, Daddy!

2009-08-03T09:14:00.002-05:00

Perfecting the Lake jump....

2009-08-03T09:05:00.002-05:00

The Bip Fairy came last night...

2009-07-08T07:19:00.007-05:00

Once Peyton turned four she knew the time was nearing that she had to give up her beloved Bippy. She only sees Bippy at night time, but is really hooked! Four is the limit at the Laspe household (and you don't have to tell me that this is much too long!). We held off even longer for our Gulf Shores vacation to make for a more tolerable car ride. So time was up!

Last night was a full moon -- and that is when the Bip Fairy makes her visits. It was an emotional evening. All day, Peyton talked about how she knew what the night would bring and she seemed okay with it. But then when it was time to say goodbye to her dear friend and place him on the windowsill, she became very sad. And then...I became very sad. It was hard to see her hurting like that over something so special to her. And then, for me, it became about her officially becoming a big girl. She is my baby and I could only think about how cute and cuddly and calm she became when she popped that bippy in her mouth. I cried right along with her and reminded her of what a big girl she was becoming, how proud I was of her and that everything was going to be okay.

She actually fell asleep quickly once the long goodbyes were over (every family member and every stuffed animal in her bed had to bid farewell). And this morning when she awoke the Bip Fairy had left her a beautiful fairy barbie it its place that she's been playing with all morning.

So long Bippy, buddy. You will be missed -- but I hope the cherished good slumber of this household did not sail to the moon right along with you!

Gulf Shores 2009

2009-06-30T08:54:00.026-05:00

1st steps on the beach...

...treasure hunts

...playing in the sand

and playing in the ocean...

...shopping at the gift shops

and dancing at LuLu's...

...beautiful sunsets and beautiful family...

FYI -- the Tooth Fairy comes to Jackson, Mississippi

2009-06-29T08:47:00.006-05:00

We left on our road trip to Gulf Shores on last Friday afternoon. We drove for about 8 hours and stopped at a hotel in Jackson, Mississippi for a rest. When I brushed Barrett's teeth for bedtime, her VERY FIRST loose tooth popped right out. Barrett ran the halls of the hotel alerting family members who were traveling with us what had happened, while I tried to figure out a secure place to put the tiniest tooth I had ever seen. Luckily, I had a little tube container in which I keep my ear plugs (husband snores terribly) and we were good to go. She put the tube proudly under her hotel bed pillow and lulled herself to sleep, finally, with talk of whether the tooth fairy would find her so far away. She awoke disappointingly to find the tube still under her pillow. However, when she peeked in the tube, in the place of the tiny tooth was a rolled-up, crisp $10 bill. From what I hear (and made sure I informed Barrett of this) was that the Tooth Fairy pays richly for the first tooth and the rest aren't worth so much -- (thank goodness!) She couldn't wait to spend her wealth in the Gulf Shores gift shops and it was an exciting event to start the trip!

Summer fun!

2009-06-16T08:46:00.005-05:00

1st real week of summer

2009-06-14T08:18:00.002-05:00

The girls had a great week at VBS. They learned songs, did crafts, played games and even got a visit from the Reptile Guy. Great way to start the summer fun!

Now she has her own sweet ride...

2009-06-09T17:28:00.005-05:00

My little girl has turned four and the big present for her birthday was a very "big girl" bike. This special present was from her Grandmas and Grandpa, aunts and cousins and she's very excited about it. She loves to go bike riding with her big sister -- and her sister is jealous of her cool ride.

Peyton celebrated being four with her whole family and she got some great gifts. A CD player for her room, a "spinny" dress and beach toys for our Gulf Shores vacation, just to name a few.

She cut it off...

2009-05-22T12:27:00.006-05:00

Before school was officially finished Barrett wanted to get her 1st major hair cut. A shorter cut to keep her cool for summer and looking like a 1st grader. She loves it!

And then she was a first grader...

2009-05-21T10:09:00.002-05:00

Barrett graduated from Kindergarten yesterday. Perfect report card. Love from teacher. Fun with friends. Proud moment. Tears from mommy.

Say "First Grade"!

Happy Mother's Day

2009-05-08T11:37:00.003-05:00

I have already had a wonderful start to the Mother's Day weekend. This morning there was a special Mothers Mass at Barrett's school where the children sang beautifully and even sang a blessing song for all of us. Then we went back to the classroom where the kids serenaded us again and served us morning treats and gave us gifts. It was very special!

I hope your Mothers Day will be just as special!!!!

Reigning Egghunt Champion...

2009-04-13T08:20:00.007-05:00

We hid a whopping 115 eggs this year. Barrett holds her title on top with 41.

This year's 2nd place winner with 29 eggs is ......Peyton! Those Laspe girls are quick and focused.

Richie came in with 27 eggs saying "Barrett always wins..." and Matt brought up the rear with 18. There's always next year! With a little training.....

Barrett and Richie found the bonus prize eggs with the $5 prize. They were happy hunters!

Colored eggs, colored hands...

2009-04-12T07:09:00.001-05:00

I know...I know...I am so behind!

2009-04-06T08:57:00.002-05:00

St. Pat's Day....

My Little Fashion Model

2009-03-14T15:48:00.004-05:00

Barrett was a swimsuit model in the American Girl Fashion Show at Sacred Heart Academy in St. Charles on March 6th, 2009. Despite her usual shy demeanor, she did a dynamite job strutting the runway. She had a great time and I'm so proud of her!

Snow day!

2009-01-27T17:18:00.004-06:00

Let's go to the hop

2009-01-26T08:03:00.007-06:00

On Friday night, Barrett and I went to a sock hop at her school. In preparation for the dance, all the kids learned dance steps in gym class that they could perform at the event. She learned the swim, the twist, the monkey, the hokey pokey and of course, the chicken dance. One day she came home and said that she learned two dances that were way too hard and way too fast -- but she couldn't remember what they were called. After a short description, I came to the conclusion that they were the Macarena and the Hand Jive -- and I gave her a brief presentation of both. She was shocked that that her OLD mom would know how to do these things.

After some practice to the tunes of MTV -- we dolled up in our rolled jeans, high pony tails and scarves and went on our way. We had a hoppin' good time!

Had ourselves a merry little Christmas...

2008-12-27T08:11:00.011-06:00

A wonderful Christmas was had by all here at our house. A beautiful Christmas Eve mass, lots of presents at Grandmas (including a surprise Barbie dream house for the girls), running wild with the cousins, great food and lots of caroling. Everyone got what they wanted from Santa: Peyton got her swimming rescue dog, Barrett got her Wii, Daddy got Mario kart and mommy got her spinning shoes (and a fabulous coat too). Santa apparently doesn't know there is a recession going on! So we've all been spoiled and we are all very thankful for the extravagant Christmas -- that we will worry about later!

We hope everyone else had a beautiful Christmas too -- and a happy new year.

A Whole Lot of Christmas Goin' On...

2008-12-19T07:59:00.006-06:00

Over the weekend, Santa visited our neighborhood and took the kids for carriage rides up and down the street.

Then, Barrett had her Christmas performance at school. All the Kindergartners sang songs to the parents and grandparents. Barrett was wonderful!

And finally, Peyton had her Preschool Christmas party. They played games, made ornaments and decorated cookies. And mommy got to be one of the class helpers.

Girls will be girls...

2008-12-12T09:04:00.004-06:00

At Barrett's Kindergarten birthday party the girls set out to bowl...but did more of this! Hand claps and Eeeny Meeny Miney Moe? Girls will be girls, I guess.

2 parties, 2 wishes

2008-12-12T08:52:00.004-06:00

Now that Barrett is in Kindergarten, she was granted two birthday parties this year. One with her friends. A super-fun cosmic bowling party with all the girls in her class. And one with her family. A great gathering of just about every one of her grandparents, cousins, aunts and uncles. 2 parties. 2 cakes. 2 wishes. And TONS of presents. She was a very happy birthday girl this year.

Happy 6th Birthday, Barrett!

2008-12-05T06:55:00.003-06:00

Today when the girls woke up, we immediately started talking about how it was Barrett's 6Th Birthday today. Peyton asked "Barrett is SIX today?...TODAY? Barrett stand up and show me six!" Barrett stood up in all her glory. Peyton said "Six looks the same as 5 to me!"

Dear Barrett,

I can't believe you are six today! You are such a big girl. You have already learned so much this year. You are so enthused about school, especially reading. I marvel at your accomplishments so far. You have also learned so much about Jesus already at school -- it is really neat to watch. Your manners and thoughtfulness have really come a long way. Most of the time, you are a fantastic big sister! You really care about your family. And you are really talented. You are such a sweet girl...and a very fun girl...and a very smart girl. I am so proud of you and I am having the best time watching you grow into yourself. I love you.

Love, Mom

Our Christmas Tree

2008-11-30T08:49:00.000-06:00

Make a Smilebox slideshow

One Little Indian...

2008-11-20T17:24:00.002-06:00

Peyton had her first public appearance at preschool today with a Thanksgiving program where she and her classmates were all dressed as Indians and were to sing an array of Indian and thanksgiving songs for the parents. That is what was suppose to happen...

Brad and I geared up the camera and video recorder to see our little star shine. At home, all Peyton does is perform...singing, dancing, constant chatter of movie and TV lines. People are constantly remarking that we need to get our little entertainer into acting or something.

So we anxiously awaited her presence on the stage. "Here she comes!" She looked out at the crowd with a 'deer in the highlights' look. And that look remained...the entire performance...not a peep came out her mouth. She only sat and looked around marveling at all the people in the room. Who would have thought...my little star...stricken with stage fright. I was shocked.

It is so amazing how a child can be one person in one situation and change completely with a different environment. They have so many facets to their personality. I learn so much about my kids from day to day. And oh how they change! Barrett, my shy girl is really starting to come out of her shell in Kindergarten and the activities that come with it and my extreme extrovert is now only playing private performances!

a natural...

2008-11-20T17:19:00.002-06:00

Barrett just keeps getting better and better with the skating. Her coaches often tell us how proud they are that she keeps up so well with "the big kids" (because they keep moving her up)and how much potential she has. It is so neat to see someone of her size so at ease on the ice. On Sunday, our family went ice skating together, and she sure had a thing or two to teach us! And as you can tell by her smile -- she loves it!

A Great Review...

2008-11-09T07:37:00.003-06:00

This week we had a Kindergarten parent/teacher conference at Barrett's school. We knew that she was doing okay because we hadn't heard any complaints, but we were pleasantly surprised at how well. Her teacher threw out comments like "a teacher's dream", "an A+ student" and even included "if I had a daughter..."

She let us know that Barrett is a really hard worker, a very quick learner and now that she is getting comfortable in her environment, is showing traits of leadership in the classroom -- where in the pass she kept reserved and introverted. It's so great to hear that Barrett seems to genuinely like school -- just like her momma. We are so proud of you Barrett. Keep up the good work!

Trick or Treat!

2008-11-03T06:57:00.003-06:00

Carving Day

2008-10-30T16:01:00.002-05:00

Pumpkin Patch

2008-10-29T09:42:00.003-05:00

Every year we go to Rombach Farms Pumpkin Patch as a family and we each pick out a pumpkin for Daddy to carve into Halloween Masterpieces and put on the front porch.

Opening Prayer

2008-10-03T08:29:00.003-05:00

Before dinner, we always let one of the girls lead grace by saying a little prayer that they have learned in preschool. Something simple, but serves its purpose. Before bed, I lead the girls in nighttime prayers asking the Lord to watch over our family and then I have the girls say whatever petitions they come up with -- usually a blessing for grandparents, cousins and friends. That has been the extent of our prayers because they are so young. In the back of my mind, I've wondered when the right time was to start teaching them the prayers necessary for church, anxious to use these prayers in our daily rituals as well.

Last night at dinner, we got on the topic of things that my kindergartner, Barrett, is learning is school. For some reason, my husband asked if she had ever heard of the "Hail Mary" prayer. Barrett proceeds to recite it perfectly. Then my husband threw out "The Our Father". Again, Barrett smiles and delivers the Lord's prayer word for word. I was floored. Not only did I assume she was too young to remember all of those words -- she had learned this without my knowledge. I beamed with pride...and told her so.

Both in School...

2008-09-15T08:42:00.004-05:00

I can't believe it...now both my girls are in school and for three mornings a week -- I am on my own. I was not sure what I was going to do with myself -- but it turns out those 2 and 1/2 hours of alone time go very quickly...too quickly indeed!

Peyton started preschool wonderfully. On the first day we visited her classroom together for about an hour...and she cried...WHEN I TRIED TO TAKE HER HOME! The next day she went by herself for an hour. When I dropped her off, she simply said "Bye, Mom" and when I picked her up she asked if tomorrow she could stay longer. And so she did. On the third day she had her first full day of preschool from 9 to 11:30, and she loved it!

Her reaction to all of this is so different from her older sister. For now...knock on wood...there is no separation anxiety, no nervousness and she is embracing becoming a big girl better than I could ask for. It is such a relief!

Breakaway Barrett....

2008-08-25T13:10:00.005-05:00

Barrett had her first Kindergarten Soccer games over the weekend. Her school had a tournament over Saturday and Sunday and she got to play in 3 games. She really enjoyed herself and seemed to get the hang of it fairly quickly, considering they have only had a couple of practices.

A few times she was able to get the ball and dribble in front down to the goal. This excitement made her enjoy the sport even more(however, no points made yet). I heard a few of the moms on the sidelines calling her "Breakaway Barrett" when she would do this...saying she was small and quick and nobody could see her. I hadn't realized what a cheerleader I would enjoy being for her games -- I am surprised I still have my voice! I am a very proud mama.

Before her last game of the tourney, Barrett asked..."mom if I make a goal this game, could I get a really BIG ice cream?" I, of course replied, "the biggest one you've ever seen!" Maybe next time.

Kindergarten....

2008-08-22T17:07:00.011-05:00

Barrett started her first official full day of Kindergarten today. She loves it already. She began Wednesday with a half day in her new classroom. There was much anticipation built up for this day and whenever Barrett was confronted with the question of "Are you looking forward to Kindergarten?" Her response has always been "I'm not excited about it...let's not even talk about it." Her biggest concern was the long time period away from home.

When I brought her in that first day, surprisingly, there were no tears from either of us. Little Peyton seemed to be the only one to express sadness for this huge occasion. Barrett's classroom was adorable, we couldn't have asked for a nicer teacher and my nephew Jaden occupies the seat next to her in class. So far so good. When I picked her up from school that day, Barrett said "I don't even think I'll notice the long day because I've made so many friends." What a pleasant surprise. My little girl is even braver than I expected.

Today, she walked into school like it was old hat. She put her things where they belong, started her coloring and didn't even flinch when we bid her farewell. She even brought lunch money to purchase the meal at school. I can't get over her maturity! She's decided that she is really going to like it there -- I think she'll actually miss it over the weekend. All that worrying for nothing. Yay!

Fun...Lake of the Ozarks Style!

2008-08-04T15:39:00.011-05:00

When you can skate...you can skate

2008-08-01T08:55:00.003-05:00

As I've mentioned, Barrett has taken up ice skating. She has been taking lessons since January and has been moving up levels quite quickly. She's got a knack for it and catches on fast.

This week Brad went to the Play it Again Sports store looking for soccer spikes for Barrett because she is signed up for the Kindergarten soccer team. While there, he came across some inexpensive roller blades in her size, and decided they would be good practice for her.

Last night, Barrett and her daddy went out in front to try them out. She was a natural! The two boys in the neighborhood (who got their roller blades at the beginning of the summer) were taking note of her techniques -- asking "Barrett, how do you do those swizzle things?" First try and she was already blading like an old pro.

I guess she's going to be one of those kids who can excel at anything athletic (like her dad was, not me), coordinated and quick-learning. I'm so proud of her -- and I think she's pretty proud of herself too!

My Girls Role "Model"

2008-07-20T07:20:00.014-05:00

On Saturday, Barrett and Peyton went to watch their 13 year old cousin, Ashlynn, perform in a fashion show she was performing in for modeling classes she recently began attending. Ashlynn is who my girls MOST look up to. They want to look like her, dress like her, be like her and go wherever she is.

Quite frankly, I couldn't ask for a better example for them. Not only is she lovely...she is an all-around awesome kid! She is smart, responsible and polite. She is kind, caring and generous. She is admirable, honest and reliable.

I don't know if Ashlynn's goals for these classes is to become "the next supermodel", but I do know that in them she is learning things about style, poise and self-assurance that have already made a difference in how she carries herself. She is developing confidence in herself that she deserves to have. Ashlynn is a true beauty inside and out. Ashy, we love you!

__________________________________________________________

While we were waiting for the Fashion Show to begin -- Barrett decided she would give the runway a whirl. Check her out!

Little Mermaids

2008-07-18T09:13:00.012-05:00

The girls had swimming lessons all week and they are loving it! Peyton is having a ball playing games like hokey pokey and chase the duckey in the water and Barrett is really building swimming skills with kick boards and floating techniques. Barrett is always the first to volunteer in the class and isn't afraid to try anything the teacher asks. Peyton refuses to blow bubbles or dunk her head herself but LOVES jumping into mommy off the side and is a pro at kicking her legs in the water.

We have one more week of lessons so I'm sure they will come even farther in their abilities -- but the important thing is that they are really enjoying the water. If we had spent any more time in the pool this week -- they would probably grow fins!

Something New

2008-07-08T08:57:00.003-05:00

I started My Ladybuggs quite a few months ago to document Barrett and Peyton's activities and milestones. And I will continue to so here. However, once in a while I come across thoughts and topics that I want to record but this space doesn't seem like the appropriate place for them. This blog is for them. I need a place for me. A place where I can note my opinions on the latest issue on my mind and possibly document more of the trials and tribulations of motherhood (and womanhood), rather than only the triumphs that I try to center on here. It turns out, when I am not in constant focus of the bright and cheery subjects that are related to my daughters...I have a few things on my mind.

If you are interested in reading about those things, you are invited to join me at http://whatjensays.blogspot.com/, a.k.a. I should be cleaning..., where I have my very own place to vent, confess, express and sometimes even seek approval and advice. Hope to see you there!

She's Back on the Charts!

2008-07-07T15:42:00.003-05:00

Some of you may have already known that last year at Peyton's 2-year check up at the doctor, she was not on "the chart" for height. And before then she was teetering on the the 4 percentile mark. In February, Peyton had to go to the doctor for an ear infection, and the doctor happen to take her measurements and assessed that she, still, was not on the growth chart. He said if by her 3-year-old check-up she wasn't showing some progress, he would want to blood test her for growth hormone deficiency or a thyroid problem. This has concerned me for months....

I had finally come to terms that even if the outcome was "short" at her appointment -- I wasn't going to have her tested. I wasn't going to give my daughter a shot of hormones everyday for her to get taller. Who knows what the side effects could be with that...by her teenage years she could be 7 foot tall and hair on her chest. No! She would just have to be short. Even a measly 4'11'' wouldn't be the end of the world for a girl!

But today she had her 3-year appointment. I waited anxiously as they tallied up her numbers. She had grown 3-1/2 inches in the year, 1-1/2 of them since February. She is in the 10Th percentile of height for her age. I believe that's the highest percentile she has ever been in that category! My how she has grown. We might even have a 5 footer on our hands! But, let's not get ahead of ourselves. Peyton, you really are a BIG girl now. YAY!

Temperatures High at our House

2008-07-03T09:26:00.003-05:00

Yesterday both Barrett and Peyton spiked fevers above 104. Our household could keep Children's Motrin in business.

I want to take this opportunity to say "always listen to your mother..." Yesterday morning my mom was advising me to take Peyton to the doctor. I put up a real fight arguing that doctors these days don't want to see fever patients unless the they linger for a couple of days (which is what I am constantly told when I call in). I tried to dismiss her suggestions. Seeing Peyton's misery, I re-considered and requested an appointment. Because HER high fever was accompanied by a wet cough, the doctor found that she had bronchitis...that if not treated would have probably resulted in pneumonia. Thank goodness we went in! He prescribed antibiotics, gave her a breathing treatment and sent her home with an inhaler. She is now on the road to recovery and I am reminded that Mother Knows Best (even if you don't want to believe it).

Unfortunately, Barrett's high temperatures are her only symptom...dismissing her as a candidate for prescribed meds -- so she may have a longer road to cooling down. So we are in for a very lazy today filled with Popsicles, 7-up, naps and lots of cuddles. We are aiming for two healthy kids to celebrate a little fourth of July fun! Be well everyone!

My Little Fish

2008-06-30T10:15:00.002-05:00

Gone Fishin'

2008-06-30T10:04:00.004-05:00

Saturday was not the sunniest of days at the Lake of the Ozarks. Not so fit for a lot of swimming...so the kids found something else to do!

Bathing Beauties

2008-06-21T10:48:00.006-05:00

The Girls spent Saturday morning catching some rays after a frollick in the sprinkler. Mommy got her lawn watered!

Day with Daddy

2008-06-17T07:54:00.004-05:00

For Father's Day, the girls made Brad breakfast in bed and showered him with hugs, kisses and gifts. We all went to mass and headed to the "Super Pool" (Ballwin Aquatic Center). It was a gorgeous day and we had a blast! Then everyone settled down for a long afternoon nap -- we were whooped! Happy Father's Day, Brad.

Presents & Cake...Now She Believes She's 3!

2008-06-08T16:53:00.005-05:00

Ever since Peyton's actual Birthday on Monday, she has been asking when she really turns 3. Since she hadn't had a party yet, no people, no cake, no presents (except for her measly American Girl Doll from Mommy and Daddy)...it wasn't sinking in. Now she believes!

After one of the girls' birthday parties, usually with an attendance of about 40 (due to Brad's huge family), we have to go upstairs and fill a Good Will bag with old toys to make room for the monstrous amount of new ones. This year, when people asked what Peyton wanted for her birthday I told them clothes (and underwear to encourage her new skill). So this year she got a few little things to play with , some money for her savings account and a summer wardrobe to die for. That's more like it!

Age three has really been a big event here at our house. Peyton now talks about how's she's now ready to start school in the Fall (when before she didn't really want to talk about it.) She goes potty like a big girl. And last night she slept her first night in her BIG GIRL BED! Woohoo!!! My little baby is growing up so fast.

Big City Birthday...

2008-06-05T11:19:00.010-05:00

Brad had a work conference scheduled in Chicago -- and because the conference days fell on Peyton's birthday -- we decided to tag along.

We had a great trip with great Chicago weather. (Everytime we've ever gone to Chicago before it has been winter and bitter cold -- so we were psyched to finally be there when the weather was nice and we could finally see the place.) We got to spend some time with some local Chicago friends and we visited the Shedd Aquarium which was pricey but worth it. We spent some time walking around Navy Pier and finally rode the huge carousel, where we could see the whole city from up in the sky.

And, of course, we made our expected trip to The American Girl Store for Peyton's birthday present. Peyton has been talking about getting 'Amantha (Samantha) for months now. When we entered the store, the staff let us know that a new American Girl Doll was being introduced that day. Her name was Ruthie and she looked a lot like Samantha. That really threw Peyton for a loop. Peyton didn't realize such a big decision was in the making. She spent, what seemed like an hour doing this...

But she finally made her decision, bid Ruthie farewell with a big hug and we were finally on our way. Fortunately, she loves her new doll and and is very happy with her decision. Peyton and 'Amantha are very happy together. Happy Birthday, Peyt!

Potty Power!

2008-06-05T10:55:00.007-05:00

After our trip to Disney, plans were in the making for Peyton's potty training. I knew I had to somehow get it done within the 3 months of summer to be ready for preschool -- but I wasn't looking forward to it. Peyton can be stubborn, resistant and doesn't exactly like to what others want her to do.

As soon as we got back from vacation, I scheduled a day to begin. Right before that day a friend-of-a-friend told me about a charter-on-demand program called "Potty Power." Her son had watched the video once and woke up the next day with the desire to potty training. I was skeptical, but was willing to try anything.

So...on the scheduled day, I went into Peyton's room cheerfully singing a little song about how today was the day to become a big girl. I put underwear on her and turned on the "Potty Power" video. It is a show made up of sing-a-longs, demonstrations and stories about being a big kid, doing things on your own and being proud to wear underwear. She loved it! She used the potty all day and was thrilled to be doing it. We've watched "Potty Power" a couple of times a day since then and we seem to sing the catchy tunes all day long. "No more diapers for me!"

Besides a few accidents because we just couldn't get there quite fast enough and a small struggle with #2. Peyton is potty trained. I'm so proud...and so is she!

Disney Dream Vacation

2008-05-21T16:28:00.013-05:00

We are back from a fantastic, fun-filled 6 night, 7-day vacation to Disneyworld. Our trip couldn't have gone better. The flights were great, the kids were great, the weather was great, the food was great and the entertainment was great. Did I mention we had a GREAT time? Peyton did wonderful on her first flight and the two of them kept themselves busy watching DVDs.

When we arrived early evening Tuesday...we headed to Magic Kingdom to give the girls a taste of the fun ahead. We went on a few rides (including the tea cups, of course), and stayed for the "Wishes" fireworks display at Cinderella's castle. Gorgeous! Our first full day was spend at Hollywood Studios where we caught some amazing shows like Beauty and the Beast, the Voyage of the Little Mermaid and High School Musical. We had lunch at the Playhouse Disney Play and Dine where the girls met the first of many characters. Mommy found her new favorite ride -- the Rock-n-Roll Roller Coaster. Totally awesome, dude! Barrett also decided to brave the Tower of Terror. For those of you not familiar...this is a ride made up of ghost, darkness and elevator drops from hundreds of feet up. Not a good decision for a 5 year old. The only thing I remember of the experience is holding Barrett's stomach (so it didn't fall out) and hearing her yell, "when is it over, when is it over?" Oh well, we couldn't go back in time, and the only repercussion was before each ride thereafter, Barrett always asked "Is this one dark?" The darkness is what got you????

The next day we all awoke bright and early at 6:30 am to get to Cinderella's castle for our appointments at Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique where the girls were transformed into little princesses.

Then the girls spent the day gallivanting around the Kingdom from attraction to attraction. A few of Peyton's favorites were Philarmagic, Peter Pan's Flight and It's a Small World. While Barrett's preferences were Splash Mountain, Thunder Mountain Railroad (both which Peyton couldn't join us) and the Haunted Mansion. Barrett's favorite favorite was Soarin' at Epcot, where she's never been so happy to be 40 inches!

The girls met many princesses throughout our trip at character spots, storybook princess dinner and dinner at Cinderella's Round Table. Here were a few of their favorites:

We spent a full day at the Animal Kingdom, where none of us have ever been. We had a perfect breakfast at the Tusker House, an adventurous safari and, those of us tall enough, braved the Mount Everest roller coaster where we witnessed the Yetti. Thrilling!

Later in the week, we had a fabulous character dinner at Chef Mickey's in the Contemporary Resort. The food was extraordinary and we had a chance to celebrate Grandma Nancy's birthday (who was with us on the trip along with cousin Ashlynn and cousin Marcus). All the greats were there including the Big Cheese and his girl.

Now we are home and it's back to reality (and lots of laundry), but it will be quite some time before I forget the fun and family time we had together. It was a vacation to remember...but until next time, our little castle in Ballwin will have to do -- where I am the Queen!

Ode to Mom...

2008-05-09T21:33:00.007-05:00

Dear Mom,

Every chance you get, you send compliments and praise my way for my abilities and choices as a mother. However, it's you, dear mother, that has the true noteworthy mothering skills. Whenever I find myself at a loss or circumstance that I'm not quite sure how to handle involving my girls, I always find myself wondering what you would have done in each of those circumstances. Why? Because when I look back on my childhood I have not ONE memory of any struggle or any doubt in your parenting decisions. You, somehow, always knew just what to say and just what to do. AND, I think I turned out pretty good if I do say so myself. So "you must have done something right!"

As I go through different stages of Barrett and Peyton's lives, it never ceases to amaze me that you went through all these same phases and issues as a mother all on your own. It has taken being a mother to realize the incredible mother you were (and still are). Your strength as a single parent is incomprehensible to me. Even though I was missing a father in my life, your love and care were so complete -- I never sensed an absence.

Mom, you are such a kind and giving person, you are an inspiration. You spend your life taking care of others selflessly...for that I have no doubt that God will take care of you.

You are so beautiful inside and out. You are smart, you are funny and you are so very generous. In a word, you are rare. The time we spend together is so valuable to me. I am blessed to have the chance to grow closer and closer to you. Something I wish you would have had a chance to do with your own mother. She would have been beyond proud.

My girls are very lucky to have the chance to spend time with such a wonderful grandma. It means the world to me for them to able to know you and to love you. Our Wednesdays together are priceless to me -- and someday will be to them as well.

You are a wonderful mother and grandmother and I would like the whole world to know! I wish you the very best Mother's Day...this year, and every year. I love you.

Yours,
Jennifer Rose

Early Mother's Day Celebration

2008-05-05T17:51:00.013-05:00

What a gorgeous day we had on Sunday in which to do our annual Mother's Day celebrating. The girls and I got to spend a great day hanging out with Grandma Judy, cousin Elaine, Rachel, Richey and Matt and aunt Ruth. We began with a fantastic lunch at the Pasta House where we all ordered our favorites and the kids ate like champions. What a great start!

Then, we headed over to Grant's Farm to see the animals. We couldn't have asked for better weather! The highlight for the kids was feeding the baby goats (even though they weren't very hungry.) The tram ride was delightful and we took in a cute Animal Encounter show.

After we parted ways, it was time for the girls and me to head home to pick up daddy from his weekend retreat. We had big plans to give him big hugs and big "we miss you" wishes when he came out. Instead, Brad found this:

Can I get a Witness?

2008-04-18T21:53:00.003-05:00

Following the CRHP (Christ Renews His Parish) Retreat that I went on a few weeks ago, the attendees were asked if interested in moving forward to plan the next weekend retreat for the next group of "chosen" women. This process is called formation.

The procedure is to meet with the group a couple of times a month to get to know each other better and make a decision as to what part you wished to play in the weekend. The roles available are coordinators of various aspects of the program, table leaders for the weekend's events and of course, witnessers, those people who get up and tell their stories and explain through different topics, how they've been touched by God, religion or simply by the CRHP weekend itself.

At first I really struggled with this. I couldn't imagine that I had anything truly significant to say in a witness, especially compared to all of the moving accounts that I heard on MY weekend. Then, the more people I shared details with about my experience -- how much I got out of it and what I realized about my faith (or lack there of) -- the more it seemed to touch people and was easily identifiable by individuals that I would have never guessed were having the same feelings as myself. I found there were many people living the way I was...in worry that things were too good to be true, so therefore waiting for the tragedy to hit. Many of us wasting so much time distressing on how things are going to turn out instead of enjoying the journey.

Then the other day, I sat down to watch Finding Nemo with my girls. It was at the part where Nemo's dad and Dory are trapped inside the whale's mouth. Dory says to Marlin, "He (the whale) says it's time to let go!" And Marlin says "How do you know something bad isn't going to happen?" and Dory says "I don't." That affected me. And right then and there I decided that if a blue cartoon fish could inspire -- so could I.

So I determined to do a witness on "Renewal" on that weekend in September. I don't quite know what I'm going to say yet, but I know that if I can make one person on that retreat recognize that they are not alone in their fears and help them realize (like I am gradually each day) that he has a plan 'that is good' for each of us, then it will all be worth it. Nerves and all!

My Foundation

2008-04-11T06:28:00.005-05:00

Every month, I meet a small pack of girls that I went to gradeschool with for dinner. My friendships with most of these girls go back as far as Kindergarten. I can truly say that these women are my foundation.

These dinners of ours are spent discussing topics ranging anywhere from home improvements to estrogen levels. We chat hours away sharing "our worlds" with each other until we are all up to speed. For me, these meetings are therapeutic. I get to share the latest and greatest on my mind, while realizing that the worries, interests and situations happening in my neck of the woods are also happening in theirs.

The greatest thing about this group of ladies, is that each one is so different than the next...yet we are all grounded together by our childhoods. Each one is special to me in a very different way:

Let me start with Stephanie. I begin with Steph because she is dying to "make the blog" so I want her to have a good seat, right up front. Stephanie is a tiny, spitfire of a woman who has a knack for comic relief like no other. She always has a story or "scoop" as she says and I've never attended an event with her that I didn't spend laughing out loud. Her humor is a gift. She is spunk, with a capital 'S'.

Next there is Dana. Dana exhibits shyness and reserve at our dinners, she seems to be taking it all in. However, I don't remember her this way from childhood...so I know there is a wild woman locked away in there somewhere. Dana has been through some bumps and in my opinion has not even begun to tap into the strength she has inside of her. She is a kind and reliable friend.

Then there is Chrissy. Chrissy has a way about her that could make anyone comfortable. She is so intelligent, pretty and so creative, yet she is filled to the brim with modesty. She is a priceless commodity to our little group.

Next up is Jenny. Jenny is a nurse and our go-to-gal for all of our ailments and kids' health questions. Jenny is strong and she calls it like she sees it. Jenny and I have had a friendship for a very long time -- but I did not recognize the depth of that friendship until she (unexpectedly to me) attended the memorial service of my father -- a man she has never met nor probably ever even heard about. She was there for me and me alone. I'll never forget that!

Now...Tracy, Tracy, Tracy. I don't think I have a childhood memory in which Tracy is not present and accounted for. She lived down the street from me as a kid and we were together ALL of the time. Tracy is one of the most optimistic people I know and she is hardly ever without a smile. She is sweet, she is fun, to me...she is Grease Lightening!

And last, but positively not least, is Joy. I have too many word for this blog entry for Joy. She was special to me as a kid, but she is invaluable to me now as an adult. Joy is a comfort to me when I'm worried and an encouragement when I'm struggling. To me, Joy is inspirational in her mothering, her support to her family and her faith in God. She is a friend in the true sense of the word and I feel blessed to have her in my life.

Although I see these girls but once a month, I think of them much more often. They especially take space in my mind as I start to prepare Barrett for Kindergarten. I pray that she, too, finds the life long friends that I did. I am very lucky to still have these unique women in my life on a constant. I love you guys!

The Girls Partied All Weekend

2008-04-07T08:02:00.007-05:00

On Saturday night the girls attended their first "Almost" slumber party at their cousin Brynn's home (Barrett's bestest friend), where they got to eat lots of junk, play girly games and do elaborate crafts. My idea of an art project is coloring pictures or sticking on foam shapes...however, their crafty aunt Jenny had the girls mold their own soap and make their own lip gloss (made of Crisco and kool-aid mix, I do not recommend -- yuck!). The girls had a great time but we picked them up right before bedtime. We are not quite ready for sleepovers.

Sunday morning, we squeezed in church before going to a bowling party for cousin Matthew's 3rd birthday. It was at Epiphany (my old gradeschool) Lanes (they have a small bowling alley there). It was such a cute little party and the girls had a blast...and I love the shoes! Barrett could have thrown that ball down the gutter-bumpered lanes all day long. And although Peyton did roll the ball down a few times, she much preferred cheering everyone on. I got video of that -- hopefully I can get that posted later (I need a little help).

Immediately following, we headed to the Overland Moose Lodge to attend a surprise 60th birthday party for their great Aunt Patti. The surprise was a success, for Patti thought we were having the Easter hunt and party that was cancelled weeks ago due to weather. Unfortunately, Barrett spent the day asking "when's the egg hunt?".

The Lodge was filled with familiar people, heaps of food and tons of pictures of Patti's 60 years. It was obvious that she was effected by the gathering and shocked by the event. Although, I don't why -- Patti has touched many people's lives with her warmth and kindness and everyone was more than anxious to pay tribute to her. She is very special in all of our lives -- She has always been a great encouragement and inspiration to Brad in his career endeavors, she's a wonderful friend to me and she is kind of a "grandma-extension" to the girls. We all love her dearly. Happy 60th, Patti...and many more!

Now that the whirlwind of a weekend is done, I am relieved to get back to normal pace and start our Monday (and the laundry). Now if you'll excuse me, I am being summoned to a match of Princess Memory Game....

A Big Step

2008-04-02T09:41:00.006-05:00

Yesterday, I gave this blog address out to a handful of special people in my life. This was a big move for me because before yesterday, this blog was a hidden treasure of mine where I spoke my thoughts and only two people knew where to find them (my mom and a friend who encouraged me to start the blog in the first place).

My reasons for now sharing this haven, was a possibility of deeper exposure from another source. It was important to me to invite in the familiar before the strangers arrived so that I wasn't standing in the room alone.

Yesterday I was given an opportunity of a guest blogger spot on http://www.chic-critique.com/, a blog I visit daily because I like to see what real people, who aren't being paid to talk, are choosing for their beauty regimens. If you haven't read my review yet, I'd love for you to check it out and leave a comment on that website. If I get enough readership, maybe I'll be asked to do it again! The review is on Philosophy's Pure Grace fragrance.

The review was a great experience for me because I had been looking for a small way back into writing for a while. I have been away from it for so long, that I was starting to doubt my ability for it.

Now that this small task is completed, I feel a little more confident to proceed and find other outlets to ease back into writing. Thanks, Chic Critique!

One the home front...

Two princesses stopped by yesterday. Aren't they beautiful? I think I'll keep them captive in my castle forever!

Have Faith!

2008-03-31T11:21:00.006-05:00

My weekend retreat was a taxing and gainful experience. I met some wonderful women. Ones that have no idea how amazing and motivating they really are. (Especially you, Barbara) I even ended up attending the retreat with a neighbor of mine that I had no idea was going to be there. Strangely enough, we were placed in the same group and positioned in seats right next to each other for the entire weekend. We are both still wondering if we will have some kind of bigger significance to each other in the future. Regardless, it was nice to have someone familiar around and we definitely got closer throughout our time there. She has eight children in her blended family and is an inspiration as a mother.

The retreat was a peaceful place to be. A rare place where there was no judgement on the way you looked. A judgement, I spend way too much time dwelling on and worrying about. It didn't matter if you had some extra pounds packed on or the most perfect body possible. It was not about your physical image, instead about your spiritual one.

A lot of our energy was spent hearing peoples stories..and I realized compared to most there, I had a fairytale one. I've never cried so much in my life. So many blessings that I needed to work on being thankful for. These anecdotes that these women told included a lot of scripture references. I have always been skeptical of bible reading and studies because any attempt to read scripture for me, felt as though I was reading a different language...so I never could imagine getting anything out of it. Some of the passages that these women included in their accounts actually touched me and held meaning in my own life. To list a few...

Philippians 4:6 "Don't worry about anything; instead pray about everything." (Words for someone like me to live by!)

Proverbs 22:6 "Teach a child how he should live and he will remember it all his life." (Something I will try to believe as I worry about Barrett and Peyton's futures)

1Peter 3:9 " Don't repay evil for evil. Don't retaliate when people say unkind things about you. Instead pay them back with a blessing. That is what God wants you to do, and he will bless you for it." (This is a tough one -- but worth trying when I come across certain people in my life)

1 Peter 5:7 "Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about what happens to you." ( I'm all about getting rid of these worries, can you tell?)

My retreat focus ended up being "how much faith in God do I really have?" I've always been Catholic, I've always believed in God. I've always prayed and I've always thanked God for the things I have in my prayers. But I realized that I spend a lot of my existence waiting for the other shoe to drop. I have all these fantastic gifts in my life...a wonderful husband, wonderful family, wonderful friends, good finances, a beautiful home and good health all around me. I waste many moments worrying that if I truly let myself be happy and grateful -- something will be taken away. Someone will be struck with illness, someone will die, an unfortunate event will happen to take away my stability. I hadn't realized that this frame of mind I was keeping was a true lack of faith in God. Why would someone so good purposely want to take away any of my happiness? Jeremiah 29:11 "I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord. they are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope." Would ya look at me...quoting scripture on MY VERY OWN LIFE!

For now I believe that I was called to that retreat to strengthen my faith and count my blessings. Even if the real purpose in finding this renewed faith is to prepare me for a struggle or hardship to come -- I know now that the misfortune will occur whether I live life to the fullest right now or not. However, my attitude toward life could help me control my reaction to such happenings. And I'm all about control!

This retreat was a wonderful thing to happen to me. I'll never forget it. And I look forward to doing it again. I'll take all the renewal I can get!

1Peter 1:8 "Though you do not see Him, you trust Him; and even now you are happy."

Stepping Away...

2008-03-29T06:52:00.003-05:00

This morning I'm leaving for a church retreat at our parish and won't return until late afternoon tomorrow. When I was asked to do this, I tried to make excuses as to why I couldn't. I was worried about leaving Brad with kids to fend for himself. I'm going to try to let that go, leave with no instructions or orders. Since it is a prayer retreat, I will simply pray that no one gets sick, no one gets hurt and all is well while I am absent. The quiet alone time will probably do me wonders.

Barrett is Still the Reigning Champion...

2008-03-24T13:05:00.003-05:00

Another year, another win! Barrett did it again. She beat those Smick boys at the easter egg hunt with a whopping 45 eggs to their 23 and 27. Peyton brought up the rear with 20 eggs. She will need heavier training for next year if she wants to hunt along side of her sister.

Sorry Boys, we told you "It Was On"...and we meant business. Maybe next year for you guys...but I wouldn't hold my breath!!! Mwa-ah-ah-ah!

Our Easter was Full....

2008-03-24T12:24:00.008-05:00

....of our Sunday best for Easter Mass

...of baskets filled with goodies

...of chocolate for breakfast

...of family eating and egghunts

And SNOW!

Papa's Eggsellent Birthday Party!

2008-03-22T08:29:00.008-05:00

Every year, the friday night before Easter all the grandchildren gather to color eggs at Grandpa's house. This year the event happen to land the day after papa's 59th brithday -- so it made for a "eggsellent" birthday celebration. Papa and the kids dyed one hundred and twenty eggs in what seemed like minutes. Purples, blues, pinks and greens were splashed everywhere -- the table, clothes, hair and faces. They all love the chance to get down and dirty. This is always a favorite tradition each year, one that sticks with them for as long as the stain lasts on their hands (oh, and this everlasting hand-color seconds as fashionale gloves to go with their pretty Easter dresses.) Happy Birthday, Grandpa and Happy Almost Easter, everyone!

Thanks to the Luck of the Irish...

2008-03-19T08:04:00.005-05:00

...we didn't have to spend the St. Patrick's Day Dogtown Parade sopping wet. It poured down rain the whole ride into the city and stopped at exactly the moment we pulled into the zoo's parking lot. It stayed dry through the parades entirety, then rain drops began to fall as the last parader marched passed us. That had to be the luck of the Irish!

Every year, for as long as Brad and I have been together St. Patrick's Day has been a national holiday in our family. Nobody works, nobody goes to school and about thirty to forty of us steak our claim on the corner of Tamm and Oakland. Aunts and Uncles and Cousins, oh my. This year was a little more vacant due to the weather.

The kids have a blast! They get all hyped up on tossed sweets and their vocabulary is limited to one word throughout the procession..."beads, beads." And boy do they get beads. By the end of the day they are so weighed down with colored necklaces, they can hardly walk. The adults have been known to get a little rowdy as well.

After the parade, family and friends gather at a family friend-owned pub in Normandy called Whelans where everyone chats the rest of the afternoon away in the dark, smokey tavern (more like cavern). And the kids run around like banshees. Why do we do this? I ask myself that very same question every year. But, it has become a family ritual that is strong and predictable. It has developed into our family's passage to the next season. So now that the custom is completed, my hope is that Spring will be close behind.

Daddy Got Some New Wheels

2008-03-16T16:31:00.002-05:00

Brad finally went out and got himself a new car, not just a new car...a Mercedes. He and his car will be very happy together.

Peyton has some trouble with change. She was whining that she missed daddy's old car. Barrett's response: daddy's old car was boring...this is a "sweet ride". Where does she get this stuff?

Mommy Got An Itouch...

2008-03-15T15:43:00.002-05:00

...but is it really mommy's?

This Sums Up How We Felt Last Week...

2008-03-15T15:20:00.006-05:00

But we've made it through all the yuck (mommy even got in on the action) and we're all alive and kicking now, just waiting around for Spring. Where are you?

An Unexpected visit form "Ralph"

2008-03-09T13:22:00.004-05:00

This lovely Sunday afternoon did not go as planned. We had a nice family day scheduled of church, lunch out and spending the afternoon at our parish St. Patrick's Day carnival where we were going to play game booths and enter to win all kinds of prize baskets and raffles and hopefully run into some fellow parishioners that we're working on friendships with. A day we had been looking forward to.

At mass, Barrett was acting a bit listless. I was thinking it was due to the lost hour of sleep due to Daylight Savings Time. I just new that dreaded "spring ahead" would cause me some trouble. After church we headed to the ATM to get out our raffle-paying cash when Barrett proclaimed that she had to throw up. Brad ripped her from her car seat and stood her in the bank parking lot where she could heave upon the pavement. All the while, I was having flashbacks of college.

Change of course...it was time to head home. We were almost there when I looked back and Peyton had a weird look on her face. I immediately dumped all of the contents of the girls' "church purse" in one swift motion and opened it under Peyton's chin. All I will say is that the frilly pink purse that we bring filled with entertaining munchies and toys to church every single week is in the garbage can waiting by the curb. And instead of fun, the afternoon has been filled with hurried trips to the restroom where I hold hair back and give encouraging words. Seriously, at one point BOTH girls were barfing into the same toilet bowl simultaneously! I have to admit that was quite a rare comedic moment of motherhood.

As I sit here typing I feel nothing but dread. Where did this come from? How long will "Ralph" be staying? How many bed cleanups and interrupted night's sleep will the Lord bestow on me this time? I feel like I was just here. The housework will suffer, the laundry will pile up. It could be days or even weeks before things bounce back into normalcy. Dread , I tell you!

Worst of all...I just changed the girl's sheets this morning. Dammit!

Snow Day

2008-03-06T07:13:00.004-06:00

On Tuesday morning I woke at 6:30 a.m. and all the schools were closed -- but there was not a flake of snow on the ground or falling. I thought the weatherman had really messed up this time!But by 8:30 It started coming down and didn't stop for hours. We ended up getting 7 or 8 inches which is more than we 've gotten as far back as I can remember.

When Barrett awoke we told her "snow day!". Instead of smiling and squealing we got a different response...."ahhh...I wanted to go to school today." I guess she's too young (and only in preschool) to enjoy the benefits of an unplanned day off. She does only go to school 3 days a week anyway. I guess she saw the snow day as just another day stuck in the house with her little sister and me.

We had a nice relaxed day watching those beautiful flakes come down like rain and we had our laughs watching Guinness coast down the back steps like he was riding a sleigh. The three of us taunted at the window and giggled as he searched endlessly for a good "spot" in the sea of white only to find that when he crouched down to go, his backside dipped down into the freezing snow everytime -- sending him on a whole new search. What a show!

When Brad got home, he bundled the girls up and took them outside to sink their legs into the huge piles. Barrett pelted everyone she saw with giant snowballs, Peyton ate the snow off her mittens. Neither of them lasted too long out there. When they came in we plopped them in a hot bath and I had hot chocolate and cookies waiting. Doesn't that sound great?

The interview

2008-03-01T07:51:00.003-06:00

Yesterday we had our Kindergarten "interview" at Holy Infant. I could have drove myself nuts wondering what that meant exactly. I couldn't imagine the interview questions. Fortunately it turned out to be much simpler than I anticipated. The pastor just talked about how important it was for us to be taking our family to church to co-incide with what they will be teaching there at school. And he wanted to make sure we knew the tuition and what ways we could pay it. Easy enough.

Then we had to chat with the principal who is an adorbale older nun who's Irish through and through. She spoke about the academics, pick-up routine, uniforms and wanted to know things about us, like where Brad worked, if I worked, and what we knew about a Catholic education. It turned out quite a bit, compared to some. She seemed to be excited to have us, especially once we explained how important it was to us for Barrett to go to a Catholic school, not necessarily education-wise ( we are aware of the known benefits of a Rockwood school district education) but value-wise. We really feel there is a difference and we made sure she knew that.

I am so excited for Barrett to get started on her journey at Holy Infant. I think she'll love it. However, I can't believe I'm going to have a kindergartner!

My Little Dorothy Hamel

2008-02-28T07:03:00.004-06:00

Barrett had her second ice skating lesson this week and this time I had the sense to bring my camera. I also had the sense to dress us all a lot warmer! She was so excited to go and it's refreshing to see her really into something. This whole ice skating thing was her idea entirely.

Her first time on skates was our trip to Chicago in December for her 5th birthday. We went to the Winter Wonderfest at Navy Pier and there was an indoor ice skating rink among all the other activities. Her dad took her on the ice and she loved it. When we got home we went to Steinberg Ice Rink a time or two spread over a few months. All the while she was skating decently but always holding our hand or the wall. She wanted to be able to do it on her own ( as a matter of fact she aspires to wear the little outfits as well) -- so she asked for lessons. I have to admit, I was reluctant at first considering we've tried soccer and she hated it after one session and dance class didn't last long either. But since those activities she hadn't really shown interest in anything extracurricular, so I figured it was worth a try.

Good choice. At her first lesson she was down on her butt more times that I can count...but she always sprang right back up. Balance-wise, she actually seemed to be ahead of the game in her Snowplow 1 class. But best of all...when it was time for her SECOND class..she wanted to go back. She even invited her dad to come watch. When my little girl was out there on that ice, she had this huge, shiny smile that I had never really seen before plastered across her face and when I looked over at her dad watching proudly ...I know where she got it!

Kid At Heart

2008-02-24T07:30:00.003-06:00

Last night I booked our flight to Disneyworld and I think I'm more excited about the trip than my girls. My next step is to book the hotel and park tickets. This trip is our first to Disney that we will be getting the meal plans as well. So having to make reservations for our table service meals, allows me to have even more control over what we are doing each day of the trip (not that I'm a control freak or anything). But I must admit...I can hardly wait to get the trip planned to a "T"!

I have been asking around, and even posted on my mom's group message board for suggestions on must-dos at Disney so that we didn't miss out on anything. So far, we're going to make sure we go to the Bippity-Bobbity Boutique. They make the girls's princesses by doing up their hair, makeup and nails and give them a crown to wear. I will be bringing them princeess dresses to wear from home so that they can be "royalty" all day.

We were also told that we must have dinner in Cindrella's castle at the Round Table where the Fairy Godmother attends along with the mice and such. The girls, I know, will get a kick out of that. I am also going to schedule a few other character breakfasts on our trip. That ought to make dining much more entertaining than it is at home!

I have been to Disneyworld 5 times now -- and I plan for this time to be the best ever. I can't wait to see the joy on Barrett and Peyton's faces as they run through the Magical Kingdom of Mickey Mouse! I'm so excited!

A Week of Single-Parenting

2008-02-21T21:11:00.005-06:00

My husband left last Saturday for a business trip to Las Vegas and remains there due to the terrible weather we are having here in St. Louis. His consecutive-day absences are always eye-opening for me. Although I feel like I pretty much do everything around here when it comes to taking care of the girls...when he is gone I feel the FULL weight of parenthood. I think what really gets me is when the long days are over and the evenings come to an end, the girls are tucked into bed and I'm locking up house for the night. It dawns on me that the only thing between them and danger of any kind (burglar, fire, whatever) is me and me alone.

So instead of being just mommy the house cleaner, mommy the cook, mommy the bed tucker...now I also have to be mommy "the protector"! Because my hubby is usually here at night (and usually goes to bed after me) I don't have to give a second thought about whether each door and window is locked and whether each and every appliance is safely turned off (not that he actually does this but when he's here we share the burden of consequence). This may not seem big - but when you're on your own, it FEELS big. I have great respect for the mom's that do this alone on a full-time basis. My own mother being one of them.

Anyway, the girls are really missing daddy and we are ready for him to come home to us. However, I did not miss the snoring from the pillow next to mine and I cherished the sole ownership of the remote control for the last week but I am more than ready to give up my super hero cape and fling it back upon my husband's shoulders. So, honey, maybe you have a bigger role here in taking care of the girls than I realized. Who knew?

Trying to Commit

2008-02-21T18:16:00.000-06:00

Okay...let's give this a try. I'm starting this blog because I have been terribly neglectful in recording the activities and milestones of my two daughters. They both have such character and such fun, it would be a terrible injustice not to get some of it documented.

I am an only child of a single mother and I know whenever I come across a piece of information that is reminiscent of my past, I cherish it. I want them to have something to cherish as well.

I'll start by introducing my girls....Barrett is my older daughter, she is five years old and the introvert of the two. Although I would not describe her as shy, she can come off that way in unfamiliar company. I can already tell that she will be very intelligent in school, she is a rule-follower and really cares how she is perceived by others, especially authority figures. When she wants to learn to do something she is persistent in teaching herself to do so. She has recently attended her very first ice-skating lesson (many falls to the bum but just as many successful recoveries), she is anxious to read and she taught herself how to jump rope. She is now up to 13 consecutive jumps! At home, she loves to sing and dance and perform in front of the family, but get her in front of anyone else and she freezes up. This MAY affect her chances of becoming a future American Idol.

Now, my youngest is a different story. Peyton is a tiny, curly-head, two year old, crazy girl who is more that willing to perform the soundtrack of High School Musical at the top of her lungs for all the patrons of Schnucks or Walmart. She wants to do everything her big sister does and picks up on things at bullet speed. However, she is much more of a challenge to do what she is told. If it wasn't for her adorable curls and her fantastic sense of humor she would probably be in trouble most of the time. I am not sure how she will perform in a school-setting, but we shall see in the fall.

As the two of them continue to grow, I am seeing how THEIR talents and interests are truly going to fill MY day and MY life and I'm really excited about that. These two little girls are my everything and my biggest ambition is to do right by them. Documenting their fantastic little lives is a start.