Happy 3rd Birthday, Daniel!

Today we celebrated Daniel's 3rd birthday! It is so hard for me to believe that he is three!! Where does the time go??

The day was busy getting the house and food ready for the party. In the evening, our guests arrived.

GranGran, PopPop, Susan, and Rob representing the McCall clan. (You will see from the pictures that William did not want for attention!)

Dee, PawPaw, Cameron, and Heather represented the Gill clan.

This year, we were excited to invite the Springfields to join us since they were in town visiting family. It was a large crowd, but we had fun!

We had barbecue, mac and cheese, and broccoli slaw for dinner. The adults at the table...the kids on the porch.

We sang "Happy Birthday" and ate cake and ice cream!

It makes me laugh, but Daniel does not like the attention of everyone singing to him. He hid during most of it. He's just not the center of attention type of kid!

We watched his birthday video and then opened presents.

He was excited to open his Indiana Jones costume! He loves it...wears it constantly!

He was also very excited to get his own new bike!! He rides it so well! I watched them riding and was simply struck by the fact that my boys are both old enough to ride a bike.

It was a great day. So much fun to celebrate an awesome little boy with family and friends. Daniel, you are blessing to our family. A sweet soul always willing to snuggle with your Mommy. I thank God for sending you to us some three years ago!

First Things First

I have a birthday party wrap-up to give you, but first things first.

Yesterday was quite a day. The boys and I spent the day preparing the house and food for the party. We didn't get out of our pajamas until after three o'clock. I was working...they were playing storm troopers.


I have found that interesting (read...not good) stuff happens when I vaccum. When Philip was a baby, he fell down the steps while I vaccumed. Daniel once crawled (backwards) under the bed and lodged himself in the corner while I vaccumed.

Yesterday after vaccuming, I found this...

and this...

The dog is not allowed on that couch and she knows it. William is also not allowed to play in a laundry basket full of clean sheets!!!

None of these could beat what I found in the kitchen shortly after shutting off the vaccum. I didn't have a camera handy so you'll have to imagine with me. I walk in to find all three boys sitting in a row...each holding their own box of cereal...each sticking their hand in and eating straight from the box. Nice, huh?? The worst was William had the Frosted Mini-Wheats and had two in his mouth. Not the best choice for a 14 month old with only two teeth.

I think the moral of the lesson is no vaccuming for me. Sounds good, doesn't it!!!

A Busy Week in Review

This week has been a long one...a good one...but a long one. Monday started my last week of Level One training for the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd. As mentioned before, CGS is our Sunday school program and in order to teach 3-6 year olds, you must attend 90 hours of training.


Training went well. It was different this year because the anxiety of how the program actually works was relieved by a year of experience in the atrium. I learned a lot. The most important thing I learned is that I have a lot left to learn!! I realized how little I know about the Bible. The other, older women in training (and the trainers) impressed me with their knowledge and inspired me to take the time to learn more.


Training was also different this year in that I got really sick in the middle of the week! My sweet Mom helped out (as did Chris) and I only missed part of one day.


I can't wait to get back in the atrium this fall. It will be really special because Daniel will be joining Philip and I in the level one atrium! He is so excited! So funny how he already knows the songs. He even has picked up on some of the content. He's very quick to tell you that "green is for the growing time" and "purple is for preparation!" Philip is also very excited about teaching him things. Could get interesting...


The week ended with a visit from my cousin and godmother, Caroline and her two children, Lauren and Daniel. It was so good to see them! Lauren is a sweet, beautiful young girl who had quite the way with little William.



Too bad she doesn't live next door! Philip and Daniel hit it off quickly. They spent most of the time playing Legos in Philip's room. Caroline and I had plenty of time to catch up. Despite our infrequent visits, there wasn't much filler talk. We spent most of the time discussing raising children and family!


We, of course, gathered for a picture before their departure!



This morning brought a visit to my friend, Caroline, and her family. They were staying "over the bay" so we headed that way to swim and play.



We had a blast being with all of her clan. They are a precious family, and Chris and I feel so fortunate to call them friends.


To say we are tired is an understatement. There were many meltdowns at bedtime tonight. I hope my little guys get some good rest. We are gearing up for a special three year old birthday on Tuesday!!

Simply the Best

I love this picture...

It's Chris holding newborn Philip. Chris has only been a father for a few hours and you can tell it suits him. His smile is bigger than I have ever seen it.

Oh, how lucky the boys and I are. Chris is one of the hardest working men I know. He puts in many hours at the office, but always comes in ready to play. I complain about not getting down time, but sometimes I (secretly) think he's got it worse. His weekends are full of making up for lost time...baseball in the yard, movies on the couch, Legos upstairs...if they ask, he's ready.

He disciplines without losing his temper. He teaches without being overbearing. He loves without conditions. He usually defers to me when it comes to parenting issues, but again I (secretly) think he knows best.

Being a parent is tough work, but I can not imagine sharing the journey with anyone else. Thanks, Chris, for the love and support you have given us these past four and a half years! You're simply the best!!

Now for our Father's Day wrap-up. I have to share the "project" Philip and Daniel did for their dad. A college friend owns a stationery business called Pink Peppermint Paper. She blogs here. I found this freebie on her website and had to try it out.

On it she asks several questions to be answered by a child regarding their father. I have to share our answers...Philip's are first, Daniel's next...

What is Daddy's name: CHRIS, CHRISTOPHER
What does Daddy like to do: PLAY WITH US, PLAY TRAIN TRACKS
What does Daddy do for fun: PLAY WITH US, PLAY ON THE BEACH
What does Daddy do at work: MAKE MONEY, EAT
What is Daddy's hair like: KIND OF LIKE MINES, LIKE PHILIP'S
How much does Daddy weigh: 15 POUNDS, 20 POUNDS
What are his favorite things to eat: APPLES, STRAWBERRIES
What does he like to drink: MILK, COFFEE
What makes Daddy the best: ME AND DANIEL, ME
What is your favorite thing to do with Daddy: PLAY LEGOS, GET SOME DADDY LOVE
How old is Daddy: 14 YEARS, 1 YEAR
How long have you known Daddy: WHOA...MAYBE 14 YEARS, 20 YEARS
Where did you and Daddy meet: AT HOME, I DON'T KNOW

It was so much fun to ask the boys these questions separately and hear their answers!! I hope Chris enjoyed it as much as I did.

We made him blueberry muffins and fresh cantalope (his request!) for breakfast. After church, we began getting ready for our guests. We had Dee, PawPaw, Cameron, and Heather over for a Father's Day dinner. Lots of fun...no pictures though!

Thanks, Chris, for being the best! We love you!!

Happy Father's Day, Dad

Happy Father's Day to my Dad.



A few weeks back, I was headed home from a church meeting when I heard a new song on the radio called, "A Father's Love." I came in right as the second verse began. I got teary...it is so fitting for my Dad.


120,000 miles. Six years down the road. A brand new life and a brand new wife. We'd just bought our first home. When he finally came to visit, I thought he'd be so proud. He never said he liked the place. He just got his tool belt out.


And he put new locks on the doors, went back and forth to the hardware store. Said "come and hold this flashlight" as he crawled beneath the sink. And "these wires ain't up to code" and "that circuit box is gonna overload." And I didn't hear it then, but I hear it now. He was saying "I love you" the only way he knew how.


You see...Dad is constantly showing us his love. He has put new locks on the doors for all three places Chris and I have called home. He's worked on each kitchen sink. He's done wiring. He's currently making new panels to go under our windows because the old ones are rotten. He doesn't complain...just jumps in there and asks how can he help.


The house isn't the only thing he looks after. He loves my little boys and tends to their medical (and sweet tooth) needs. He's answered too many nursing questions to count, diagnosed ear infections, roseola, fever viruses, stomach bugs, etc. He makes sure there are plenty of Pop Tarts in his pantry for unexpected visitors. He does not complain about having to reset his satellite after William comes to visit and press buttons on his equipment.




Clearly, he loves my little boys. The feeling is quite mutual, I assure you.


I feel so blessed that Chris has not only a wonderful father, but also a father-in-law that provides him examples of how to be a great dad.


Dad, you're the best. You have given me everything I need in life....and more! Thanks for always being there for me and my family!!


Check back later for an update on another great Dad!

A Camp Out

Remember last year's Worm Day?? Today, we were devoted to camping out and the great outdoors. It's a shame I didn't check the weather!

We started by pitching the tent. Philip and Daniel helped...I was quite proud of myself for doing it without having Chris' help.

The boys and I gathered inside and read some camping out stories...Curious George goes Camping and What a Trip, Amber Brown. After a little reading, I looked over and noticed that I wasn't the only one drenched in sweat. The boys were past looking red...they looked purple.

Now I do not like saying the word "hot" in front of them. I want them to love the outdoors and do not want to give them an excuse to come inside. However, them looking purple was quite scary. I suggested we head inside for a little a/c and cold ice water.

So we got started on our trail mix.

We didn't use a recipe...just dumped in peanuts, raisins, craisins, dried bananas, and m&ms.

The boys were helpful and loved this new snack.

When William woke up, we headed out on our nature walk. Philip and Daniel rode bikes while William cruised in the stroller.

I gave Philip and Daniel a list with four items to look for. Luckily, we have a large wooded park right in our neighborhood for us to use. The boys enjoyed walking through the park looking for the items on their list.

Again, it was quite hot, so we headed home for a rest. I grilled hot dogs for lunch and although we had planned to eat in the tent, it was simply too hot. (The heat index is 103.)

After lunch, we had one more project...dessert! We roasted...actually grilled...marshmallows and made S'mores.

The boys had never had one before. I think everyone liked it.

A fun day by all measures...next time though we'll wait until it cools down!!

A Day Trip to the Beach

We headed out early today for a trip to the beach. We had two stops to make...the Winward to see Elizabeth and Nancy and then Gulfside to see Dee. GranGran came along for the ride.

The boys enjoyed having a chance to work on their swimming at the Winward. They did great! Many thanks to GranGran for helping out in the water.

Our time was short as Elizabeth and Nancy needed to get on the road. So we headed to Gulfside. We enjoyed a picnic in the condo with Dee. However, as soon as I got suntan lotion on the boys the lightening and thunder began. We tried to wait patiently, but the storm didn't pass. We headed home!

I was sad that I didn't get to go out on the beach...really wanted to check out the spill. I did see lots of people cleaning at the Winward. Elizabeth had been on the beach and seen the tarballs and a bird coated in oil. Too horrible to comprehend.

Lots of fun...three tired little boys!

Cousins, take two

Oh my, did we have fun with the Watson's!! We didn't do a whole lot of exciting stuff, but we did get to spend lots of time with them and that was fun!!

From Monday through Wednesday, the boys were in swimming lessons during the middle of the day. So with morning naps and afternoon naps, there wasn't much time left for excursions. We had several picnics here and at GranGran and PopPop's. There were many afternoon playdates for Merrill and Philip. Simple days...lots of time to visit!

On Friday, there were no swimming lessons so we headed over to the Eastern Shore Centre to play in the fountains. If you remember, we went last May and Daniel would not get in the water. Thankfully, this year, all three boys had a blast. Of course, they were sporting their new swimming trucks...

Everyone had a good time playing and keeping cool in the water...

Philip was especially glad to see this guy show up! Seems his mom had the same idea as us!!

This guy was getting hot. (I know it looks like he's crying, but I am certain that I never heard even a whimper out of this guy. Russell must be the most laid back baby I have ever met!)

until he too got a chance to cool off!

Saturday brought a pool party at our house! We had a lot of fun relaxing in the pool...even Mom and Dad partook.

Susan, Rob, and Elizabeth came by to join in the fun. We grilled some hot dogs and enjoyed our last day with the Watson clan.

Well, we were sad to see them go, but we didn't slow down. There was a 40th birthday party that the whole family went to Saturday night, then church and another birthday party for the boys on Sunday. Finally, we had GranGran, PopPop, Susan, Rob, and Elizabeth for dinner Sunday night. To say we are tired is truly an understatement!

Thankfully today has been spent relaxing. We had a great visit with Aunt Elizabeth today to finish off our week of family fun!

Prayer Ramps

When Chris and I deemed Philip old enough to understand a blessing at the table, we began to work with him to wait before eating, fold his hands, and sit quietly while Chris blessed the food. I remember it being somewhat of a struggle. He just didn't get it.

Then Rev. David Powers enters the picture. Father Powers was our interim priest from fall of 2007 until the fall of 2008. I have a great love and respect for this man. Here he is next to me at Daniel's christening.

Father Powers did two great things for me. First, he took the time to truly explain the Rite of Holy Baptism to Chris and me. I have had three children baptized and three different priests do it. He's the only one to come to my home and go through the liturgy. I learned a lot! However, one of the best things he did for us was introducing the "prayer ramp."

Father Powers had a chapel service for the Mom's Day Out kids once a week. One day, he introduced the "prayer ramp." He told the children if they put their hands together then their prayers would go straight up the ramp to heaven. Ramps were something that Philip understood!

From then on, we only need tell Philip and Daniel to "make a prayer ramp" and it was done!

Time has past and Philip now says the blessing at dinner every night. Tonight I was surprised when I said "make your prayer ramp" and William did it! I've never specifically shown him how to do it...he's simply watched all of us.

It was so cute I captured it on video!

Thanks Father Powers!!

Cousins, take one

Here's the first update on what we have been doing with the cousins in town!

We spent Friday afternoon with Meredith. We first picnicked after swimming lessons at GranGran and PopPop's. Then we came home and filled up the pool and swam...

We also ate homemade watermelon popsicles...

We brought Meredith back to GranGran's but promised to play again on Saturday. So we did. We all headed out to the Exploreum for a little fun. Meredith is too old for the Wharf of Wonder, so we spent some time in the health exhibit they have. The little guys got impatient, so Chris took them to the Wharf while Philip, Meredith, and I watched a demonstration on how our skin works.

Afterwards, they were giving out free shark bites. Meredith couldn't resist...

Meredith came home, had lunch with us, and played for the afternoon. Philip loved having her to play with. She was so sweet to all three boys and so helpful to me.

After church on Sunday, we again filled up the pool (easily the best $25 I have spent all summer!) and played with Meredith and the Watsons.

Even William was happy to have a playmate!

Now we are debating a trip to the beach...can't decide with the oil spill. Will definitely be back with more cousin fun soon!!