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August 31, 2005
US Citizenship Test
(snagged from Deb and Jay)
| You Passed the US Citizenship Test |
 Congratulations - you got 9 out of 10 correct! |
I'm embarrassed that I only got the 9 - and I am not sure which one I answered incorrectly.
Posted by Cate at 11:35 PM | Comments (4)
It was fun
The schoolorientation was fun. We already knew our way around the school but it was a nice refresher for Olivia. Tomorrow we meet the teacher! Wooohoo!
In other news, gas in our area has now hit $3.01 a gallon. Husband drives ninety miles every day for work. Thank goodness he drives a Saturn 4-cylander but still, $3.01? That's a lot of freakin' money. The gas station at the Lacey rest area on the Garden State Parkway (near exit 74) still has gas at $2.57/gallon. I will be heading there tonight to fill up my car. Luckily, that's not too far from where I live.
What's the price of gas in your area?
Posted by Cate at 04:21 PM | Comments (15)
Kindergarten
At noon today, Youngesthas kindergarten orientation. I'm so excited for her. We get to tour the school and even ride the bus! Tomorrow, Husband and I are meeting with Eldest's teacher and Youngest's teacher. The school, several years ago, set up a system where, a week before school starts, each parent and child could meet the teacher the child is going to have for the next school year. It's actually one of the few things I really like about this school. There are a couple more - I've just got to think about what they actually are for a little while. I hope that Eldest is in the gifted and talented program again this year. I am also hoping that Youngest's teacher will work with me regarding her food allergies.
Anyway - I'm off to feed the girls and get some work done around here. Hey, did I mention that my porta-potty is gone?? Yippie!
Posted by Cate at 09:31 AM | Comments (1)
It's gone!
My porta-potty is gone!
:::happy dancing:::
Posted by Cate at 09:08 AM | Comments (3)
August 30, 2005
Oh - why not?
You know you're dying to see more house pictures!
Posted by Cate at 10:39 PM | Comments (3)
Dirty thoughts about Dirty Jobs
I just saw Mike Rowe in a wetsuit.
Oh my! ::fanning self::
tags: mike rowe dirty jobs + dirty jobs + mike rowe
Posted by Cate at 09:10 PM | Comments (2)
Girl Scouts and Food Allergies
I know that a *lot* of my readers lurk (I see you!) but I was hoping that someone might be able to offer some suggestions.
My five year old, in case anyone didn't know, has major food allergies. Nuts, peanuts, fish, dairy, and eggs are the big ones and she can have an anaphylactic reaction if she does ingest any of those items. I am her Daisy scout leader this year and I was wondering how other parents and troop leaders run meetings and have their child participate in events where there could be a life threatening problem. I think I have snack time covered but I am always up for new suggestions.
Please, I don't want any debates about how it's your child's right to eat peanut butter in school. I am just asking for some assistance. Thanks. : - )
Posted by Cate at 04:10 PM | Comments (3)
Daisy Day
I've got a parent meeting for all my Daisy troop parents today at 1030am. I just hope the weather holds out. I know I've got eleven girls in this troop and I am hoping to rope in a parent or two as additional assistants. My friend Liz is an assistant and so far, it's just the two of us. But, the bonus to running a Junior troop is using some of those girls for help as well. In fact, they can earn their Junior Aide awards.
I fear that I have a bit too much on my plate this year. I will need to be very organized and really on top of my game. I'm actually a little nervous about it all but I think (I hope!) that everything will turn out just fine.
I'm already looking forward to June!
Posted by Cate at 08:25 AM | Comments (4)
August 29, 2005
Nerds! Nerds! Nerds!
(snagged from an
Insider)
Take the Nerd, Geek, or Dork? Test
Of course, I am a nerd.
Pure Nerd
56 % Nerd, 43% Geek, 30% Dork
For The Record:
A Nerd is someone who is passionate about learning/being smart/academia.
A Geek is someone who is passionate about some particular area or subject, often an obscure or difficult one.
A Dork is someone who has difficulty with common social expectations/interactions.
You scored better than half in Nerd, earning you the title of: Pure Nerd.
The times, they are a-changing. It used to be that being exceptionally smart led to being unpopular, which would ultimately lead to picking up all of the traits and tendences associated with the "dork." No-longer. Being smart isn't as socially crippling as it once was, and even more so as you get older: eventually being a Pure Nerd will likely be replaced with the following label: Purely Successful.
Congratulations!
You scored higher than 38% on nerdiness
You scored higher than 55% on geekosity
You scored higher than 44% on dork points
Posted by Cate at 03:16 PM | Comments (3)
Floam
Ok - has anyone purchased this stuff? Is it any good? The girls are begging me to buy it, you know, because I don't have ENOUGH craft stuff.
1/12/07 - Here's an alternative to Floam. It's non-toxic and it looks pretty decent. Go visit John at Funtastical Toys and tell him that Kate sent ya!
As of 12/19/05, I've closed the comments on this post. No more Floam!
Posted by Cate at 02:27 PM | Comments (185)
Top 100 Hits of 1988
(snagged from Karen)
What the hell - the songs are listed below. Here are the details if you want to play along.
You can go here, type in the year you graduated high school, and voila! You have the Top 100 songs from that year. Its pretty simple. You bold the ones you like, underline your favorites, strike through the ones you loathe, and italicize the ones you can't remember. No opinion? Just leave it alone.
Top 100 Hits of 1988 / Top 100 Songs of 1988.
1. Faith, George Michael
2. Need You Tonight, INXS
3. Got My Mind Set On You, George Harrison
4. Never Gonna Give You Up, Rick Astley
5. Sweet Child O' Mine, Guns N' Roses
6. So Emotional, Whitney Houston
7. Heaven Is A Place On Earth, Belinda Carlisle
8. Could've Been, Tiffany
9. Hands To Heaven, Breathe
10. Roll With It, Steve Winwood
11. One More Try, George Michael
12. Wishing Well, Terence Trent d'Arby
13. Anything For You, Gloria Estefan and the Miami Sound Machine
14. The Flame, Cheap Trick
15. Get Outta My Dreams, Get Into My Car, Billy Ocean
16. Seasons Change, Expose
17. Is This Love, Whitesnake
18. Wild, Wild West, Escape Club
19. Pour Some Sugar On Me, Def Leppard
20. I'll Always Love You, Taylor Dayne
21. Man In The Mirror, Michael Jackson
22. Shake Your Love, Debbie Gibson
23. Simply Irresistible, Robert Palmer
24. Hold On To The Nights, Richard Marx
25. Hungry Eyes, Eric Carnen
26. Shattered Dreams, Johnny Hates Jazz
27. Father Figure, George Michael
28. Naught Girls (Need Love Too), Samantha Fox
29. A Groovy Kind Of Love, Phil Collins
30. Love Bites, Def Leppard
31. Endless Summer Nights, Richard Marx
32. Foolish Beat, Debbie Gibson
33. Where Do Broken Hearts Go, Whitney Houston
34. Angel, Aerosmith
35. Hazy Shade Of Winter, Bangles
36. The Way You Make Me Feel, Michael Jackson
37. Don't Worry, Be Happy, Bobby McFerrin
38. Make Me Lose Control, Eric Carmen
39. Red Red Wine, UB40
40. She's Like The Wind, Patrick Swayze
41. Bad Medicine, Bon Jovi
42. Kokomo, Beach Boys
43. I Don't Wanna Go On With You Like That, Elton John
44. Together Forever, Rick Astley
45. Monkey, George Michael
46. Devil Inside, INXS
47. Should've Known Better, Richard Marx
48. I Don't Wanna Live Without Your Love, Chicago
49. The Loco-Motion, Kylie Minogue
50. What Have I Done To Deserve This?, Pet Shop Boys and Dusty Springfield
51. Make It Real, Jets
52. What's On Your Mind, Information Society
53. Tell It To My Heart, Taylor Dayne
54. Out Of The Blue, Debbie Gibson
55. Don't You Want Me, Jody Watley
56. Desire, U2
57. I Get Weak, Belinda Carlisle
58. Sign Your Name, Terence Trent d'Arby
59. I Want To Be Your Man, Roger
60. Girlfriend, Pebbles
61. Dirty Diana, Michael Jackson
62. 1-2-3, Gloria Estefan and Miami Sound Machine
63. Mercedes Boy, Pebbles
64. Perfect World, Huey Lewis and the News
65. New Sensation, INXS
66. Catch Me (I'm Falling), Pretty Poison
67. If It Isn't Love, New Edition
68. Rocket 2 U, Jets
69. One Good Woman, Peter Cetera
70. Don't Be Cruel, Cheap Trick
71. Candle In The Wind, Elton John
72. Everything Your Heart Desires, Daryl Hall and John Oates
73. Say You Will , Foreigner
74. I Want Her, Keith Sweat
75. Pink Cadillac, Natalie Cole
76. Fast Car, Tracy Chapman
77. Electric Blue, Icehouse
78. The Valley Road, Bruce Hornsby and The Range
79. Don't Be Cruel, Bobby Brown
80. Always On My Mind, Pet Shop Boys
81. Piano In The Dark, Brenda Russell Featuring Joe Esposito
82. When It's Love, Van Halen
83. Don't Shed A Tear, Husband Carrack
84. We'll Be Together, Sting
85. I Hate Myself For Loving You, Joan Jett and The Blackhearts
86. I Don't Want To Live Without You, Foreigner
87. Nite And Day, Al B. Sure
88. Don't You Know What The Night Can Do, Steve Winwood
89. One Moment In Time, Whitney Houston
90. Can't Stay Away From You, Gloria Estefan and Miami Sound Machine
91. Kissing A Fool, George Michael
92. Cherry Bomb, John Cougar Mellancamp
93. I Still Believe, Brenda K. Starr
94. I Found Someone, Cher
95. Never Tear Us Apart, INXS
96. Valerie, Steve Windwood
97. Just Like Paradise, David Lee Roth
98. Nothin' But A Good Time, Poison
99. Wait, White Lion
100. Prove Your Love, Taylor Dayne
Posted by Cate at 02:14 PM | Comments (3)
Calling All SuperMoms!
I got a copy of this book last week and, once I started reading it, I just couldn't put it down! Melanie has written a very funny account of a mom who, not unlike Peter Parker, ends up with super powers. Not only that, her son, who just happens to be her sidekick, designed her superhero mom costume for her. Now, I won't tell you how she uses those powers nor will I ruin the (fantastic) ending but I highly suggest that you pick up a copy of this book. It's a must read that's dedicated to all supermoms out there in the world.
Visit her blog - Refrigerator Door and you can ever read the first chapter of the book.
Posted by Cate at 08:43 AM | Comments (0)
August 28, 2005
Did you know...
Only 118 days until Christmas?
Posted by Cate at 05:17 PM | Comments (6)
Classic Dames Test
(snagged from Theresa)
Rosalind Russell
You scored 9% grit, 42% wit, 33% flair, and 23% class!
You are one wise-cracking lady, always quick with a clever remark and easily able to keep up with the quips and puns that come along with the nutty situations you find yourself in. You're usually able to talk your way out of any jam, and even if you can't, you at least make it more interesting with your biting wit. You can match the smartest guy around line for line, and you've got an open mind that allows you to get what you want, even if you don't recognize it at first. Your leading men include Cary Grant and Clark Gable, men who can keep up with you.
Find out what kind of classic leading man you'd make by taking the Classic Leading Man Test.
Posted by Cate at 03:51 PM | Comments (1)
Helloooooooooooooooooooooo!
How the hell are you?
Posted by Cate at 11:30 AM | Comments (6)
We've been mapped!
Kudos to PDC Ryan for, I think , the most cleverly done Carnival yet. Go read it here.
Posted by Cate at 10:51 AM | Comments (0)
August 27, 2005
Family Fun
Hi Ho
Hi Ho
It's off to Home Depot we go
From hammers and nails
to the girls' cries and wails
Hi ho
Hi ho, hi ho, hi ho
Posted by Cate at 11:29 AM | Comments (5)
August 26, 2005
Girl Scoutin'
It's been one crazy thing after another. I was, literally, working on GS stuff (two troops and doing the organizer stuff) for several hours today. Plus, in about thirty minutes, I have a parent meeting with all the parents in Eldest's troop. I just got five new girls, bringing this troop's total up to 17.
Oy!
I'm off to get set up for my meeting. You all behave, y'hear?
Posted by Cate at 06:23 PM | Comments (2)
Bernat Disco Yarn GiveAway
Click here for more details. It's one per person per address so don't be a jerk and try to steal more.
Posted by Cate at 11:09 AM | Comments (2)
August 25, 2005
Weird
Apparently my site decided to vanish for a little while.
I'm glad to be back up and running again!
Posted by Cate at 10:32 PM | Comments (1)
No workee today
Well, the siding guys never showed up today. The general contractor called and said that the siding would be delivered today and they guys will be here tomorrow to start work.
YAY!
The girls are in the pool and Mom is out there with them, on the side, just goofing around and being silly. Of course, the girls are practically delirious with goofiness. I'm so glad she and Dan are moving closer to us. They will only be about 10-15 minutes away instead of 45 minutes.
It's a good thing.
Posted by Cate at 01:20 PM | Comments (2)
Skipped a day
Good morning!
Yes, I know, bright and early for me. I'd better start practicing getting up earlier than this. School starts in less that two weeks and I've GOT to make sure that Eldest gets the bus. I can't be driving her into school and get Youngestready on time for HER bus.
Mom is coming down for a visit and lunch today. Perhaps we can even squeeze in some shopping too - Eldest needs sneakers and school shoes. I purged her closet yesterday and made her try on a bunch of clothes. Surprisingly, we had a fun time, giggling over what didn't fit and what was still too big for her. Mom had bought her a very nice pair of black boots and she loves them. So, I had her try on the boots with her jeans and she looked so darn cute. Youngestgot a different pair in pink suede.
I'm supposed to have contractors show up here today and put siding up on the addition. I"m also suppposed to have the huge pile of dirt removed - to the girls' utter dismay. I hope the porta-john leaves soon too. It looks SO classy at the top of my driveway too. Not.
Well, I need to get cleaned up and attempt to do some more laundry before Mom gets here. Later!
Posted by Cate at 08:43 AM | Comments (1)
August 23, 2005
Some peace and quiet
I've managed to sneak back into the house, undetected by the girls. Ahhhh, it's nice and QUIET in here. Today, they've been good buddies and bitter enemies. It's like watching Jekyll and Hyde. Luckily, I get to escape tonight to the first Girl Scout service unit meeting of the year. I'm going to get there early and help out the service unit manager who is quite possibly one of the nicest women I've ever met.
Seriously.
This meeting is going to run about three hours. Lots and lots of paperwork and tons of information about upcoming events. One of the big events in April is a bus trip to the American Girl store in NYC for a show,lunch, and shopping. Eldest is **so** excited about it. Youngestisn't old enough for the trip and she's a little bummed out but I think she'll survivie
Anyway, I've got to finish getting dinner ready for the family. I'm going to have pizza at the meeting. Mmmmmmmmm - pizza.
Posted by Cate at 04:11 PM | Comments (0)
Sleepy
Eldest had a friend sleep over last night.
::yawn::
Her mom will be picking her up soon. They've got a full day planned. I've got the heating and a/c guys here for the day, hooking up the new system in the addition.
Woohoo!
Posted by Cate at 09:55 AM | Comments (1)
August 22, 2005
Dirrrty Jobs
I forgot to mention this when I wrote about Liz and I getting together.
We both desperately lust have crushes on Mike Rowe.
Yeah - I could hang out with him for a day or two. Plus, he's got a really quirky/snarky sense of humor, which I really dig, and he looks good in waders and coveralls.
Oh yeah.
Posted by Cate at 01:38 PM | Comments (5)
Better late than never
I had a fantastic time on Saturday.
I had the pleasure of spending the afternoon with my friends - Mary and her non-blogging friend (who has now converted into a blogger), Zonker, Jim and Mr. Surly. We spent of most the afternoon haning around one place - Desmond's Tavern. We emerged, only so we could eat. We wandered, nomad-like, for about 20 minutes before finally ending up at choosing the Lemongrass Grill. I had never eaten Thai food but Mary assured me that there were several dishes I would like. She was right. The food was delicious and the company was incredible. We sat and laughed some more before deciding to go back to Desmond's for post-dinner drinks. Still, there was no shortage of conversation (or drinks) and fun was had by all. Stories flew and laughs abounded.
I was sad to have to break up the party but, like all good things, it was time for it to end. Hugs were exchanged and we left. I made it home by 1030pm just in time to see the girls right before they headed into bed. I can't wait for the next event.
So, who's hosting the spring blogmeet?
Posted by Cate at 08:42 AM | Comments (4)
August 21, 2005
Six Feet - RIP
Best episode ever
Extremely emotional and I cried, really cried through this episode. They wrapped it up beautifully.
Posted by Cate at 10:14 PM | Comments (5)
Carnival Part XIV
Well, what are you waiting for? Go! Read!
Posted by Cate at 09:41 AM | Comments (0)
August 19, 2005
Meeting MORE bloggers!
Seems like this is a meet-n-greet bloggers week. I am going to visit Mary of Bookblog fame and we are heading into NYC to meet up with Jim, Mr. Surly, Sluggo and the infamous Zonker. I bet we will all have one helluva good time. Look out NYC, I've got my camera.
Posted by Cate at 11:32 PM | Comments (2)
Which swear word?
Your word is SHIT. You are laid back and relaxed,
and most people like you. You don't especially
want to stand out from the crowd, you are
pretty happy with your lot.
Which Swear (Curse) Word Are You?
brought to you by Quizilla
Posted by Cate at 10:46 PM | Comments (3)
Meeting bloggers
::update:: read Liz's recap of yesterdays events
Yesterday I had the pleasure of meeting Liz and her four beautiful children at Holmdel Park.
Now, I had already met Liz at the NJ Blogmeet waaaaay back in April. Let me tell you that Liz really is as funny and charming as she appears on her blog. I wanted to take all her kids home - they were just that awesome. They all were chatting with me and certainly didn't appear to be shy at all! Her son was just so funny - I just wanted to give him a squeeze and her youngest, I just wanted to grab her right up too. Petite and sweet and certainly not shy with five older kids tromping all around her. Eldest and Liz's second eldest daughter are the same age. Both girls are in Girl Scouts, shared several common interests and they hit it off right away. Liz's eldest daughter - I don't know where to even start. She was fantastic with all the children and had a natural way of taking charge without being bossy. I wished she lived closer so I could hire her as a sitter!
We met at the park around 11am. We wandered around into Longstreet Farm, which is part of the park system. It's a working farm that has educational programs that feature the agricultural customs of the 19th century. Very interesting and fun. For more information about the farm, click here. We got to see these mules being hitched up and used for work on the farm. Eldest wanted to pet them but she wasn't allowed because they were being trained as work mules. Eldest was a bit disappointed but she got over it. We saw some chickens and the mules at work. I fell in love with this tree. I hung back to take the picture just as Liz turned around, wondering where the hell I was. In our wanderings around the farm, we observed a young woman who was pregnant. She had the obviously belly but she didn't appear to be pregnant anywhere else on her body (all you moms know what I mean). Liz and I both looked at her, looked at each other and jealously muttered "bitch" at the exact same time. Of course, we both burst out laughing and I just knew that Liz and I were going to be great friends.
After walking the farm, we stopped at the car to grab our lunches so we could eat at the picnic tables. We made a pit stop at the bathrooms where I discovered that one of my HUGE 20oz water bottles had leaked inside my backpack, resulting in a huge wet spot right on my right ass cheek. ::sigh:: Let me tell you, my ass does not need to have any emphasis on it at all. LOL. Once we got to the table, I emptied out the backpack and dumped out the water. The backpack was waterproof so it had collected the water in it. Luckily, my camera and other stuff were ok. We ate and chatted and the kids all finished in about 4 minutes. They ran around while Liz and I chatted some more. We decided to walk over to the playground section and let the kids run for a while. We were so lucky to have chosen a gorgeous day - sunny and slightly windy. Not once bit of humidity. After the playground, we walked over to the lake and I got some cute pictures of the kids there too.
The kids rolling down the hill
The girls and I were invited back to Liz's house to swim by Liz and her children. Of course I said yes. I had planned for that and packed a bag just for the pool. I made plans to follow Liz back to her house. We got back to the cars, loaded up and rolled on out.
When I was backing the car out of the parking space, it felt weird. As I started to drive, I realized that my tire might be low on air and I called Liz on her cell phone. One of her daughters answered and I asked her to ask Liz if we could stop at a gas station on the way. Sure, no problem. Well, about 20 seconds later, Liz pulls into a school parking lot and said she looked at my front tire in her mirror. There was no way that this tire could have made it to a service station.
My spare is mounted underneath my car. It took me and Liz a few minutes to figure out just how to get it down. I pulled out my jack and the parts and I was ready to unscrew the bolt to release the tire. As you can see, I was able to accomplish that feat. I was even able to jack the car up even though my small jack sucked. Ugh. But, I could not remove those damn lugnuts. COULD NOT. Now, I'm no damn skinny minnie but those damn lugnuts weren't coming off without the use of a drill. Just when I was getting all pissed off and even sweatier, I realized that I had roadside assistance from Hyundai. Booyah! I called and the young lady was very nice. She was asking me all kinds of questions aboutt my location and I had NO clue where I was. All I could tell her was that I was near the Holmdel police station. She called the police station and got the name of the road for me. When she called me back (thank God for cell phones), she said a truck would be out within 20 minutes.
Liz brought all six kids to the field at the school while we were waiting for the truck. I sat in the car, all pissed off and sweaty. But, I must admit, true to their word, the truck did show up in about 20 minutes. This is the guy that changed the tire. Do you think he knew that I took his picture? Another gratuitious tire shot. I was joking with Liz, saying that when people hang out with me, I can always show them a good time. When the guy finsihed up, I tipped him $10 and we were all on our merry way to Liz's house.
We get there, have a drink and the kids have changde into their bathing suits. We were off to the pool. The kids all splashed around while Liz and I sat on the deck and did nothing but talk. We had a blast! We both were jonesing for a double choclate frappacino from Starbucks. We never got one though. Next time - and it's my treat Liz!
The girls and I finally left by 5pm. I realized we were becoming the guests who never leave. We all hugged goodbye and the girls and I hit the road. The parkway was jammed - ugh - damn rush hour. We finally made it home by 630pm.
All in all, besides the tire mishap, it was a fantastic day. I hope we can all meet up again soon. And, if you made it all the way to the end of this entry, congratulations!
Posted by Cate at 09:57 AM | Comments (4)
August 17, 2005
A few pics
Everyone had a great time yesterday. Youngestloved going to McD's and Build A Bear and we even stopped to visit my Mom. Husband and Eldest surprised us by also showing up a little after we arrived. The science center was a HUGE hot with Eldest. She loved the IMAX theater and really enjoyed herself. I can't wait until they reopen so we can bring Youngestthere as well.
Here's a few house pictures. They knocked a hole in my dining room wall and added an Anderson glider window. It's gorgeous. I love it. I need to get a nice clear shot of it from the inside and the outside too. I will post them as soon as I can.
The girls and I will be meeting up with Liz and her crew tomorrow at a park. It's going to be a lot of fun. I haven't seen Liz since the NJ Blogmeet and I am looking forward to relaxing and chatting with her while the kids all play. Maybe I'll even snap a few photographs too.
Maybe.
Posted by Cate at 11:38 PM | Comments (7)
August 16, 2005
Is there anyone out there?
Hello!
Long time no post. Things have been in slight chaos around here. I've got shirtless young men wandering around in my house and yard. I'm not complaining mind you but I am starting to feel like Mrs. Robinson.
Husband and Eldest are on their way to the Liberty Science Center in Jersey City. Eldest has been dying to go there for quite a long time. We heard on the radio that the museum will be closing at the end of August and will not be reopening until 2007! So, as a surprise for Eldest, Husband took the day off and they two of them are having a nice Dad/Daughter kind of day. She was so excited when she heard that they were going sans Youngest and me. Youngest wasn't too thrilled but I promised her a trip to McDonalds and we are going shopping at the mall. I want to bring her to Build A Bear too - just for a surprise.
I've got oodles to do around here before we leave. I hope the workers are done by noon. They said they didn't have too much to do today.
Catch ya later!
Posted by Cate at 09:16 AM | Comments (6)
August 14, 2005
How can I forget the Carnival??
DOH!
Here's this week's CotNJB (that's Carnival of the New Jersey Bloggers for those of you not in the know). Go visit Dan and read some fantastic blogs. A big shout out also goes to Mr. Snitch for compiling all the entries.
Good job guys!
Posted by Cate at 08:52 PM | Comments (0)
August 13, 2005
We met Buzz Aldrin!
We met Mary at the Paramus Barnes and Noble. She had called me earlier to let me know that the parking lot was full and suggested a parking alternative. Luckily, I managed to follow a couple guys to their car and I snagged their spot. When we walked into the store, the girls were oohing and aahing over the store! LOL. Our local bookstore looks nothing like this two floor B&N. They were impressed.
I had to call Mary on her cell to figure out where she was in the store. When she said to look up, I did and there she was, waving away. She said that the books that were to be signed were on the counter right next to us. I looked and there were none at all. Crap. I walked over to the information desk and asked if there were any more copies. The man handed me the very last book. I also grabbed another Buzz Aldrin book just so I could get it autographed and we headed upstairs to meet Mary.
The line was pretty long but luckily, we jumped right in with Mary. I am sure the guy behind us wasn't happy. Too bad for you buddy. We weren't the only people doing that and besides, the line was moving at a slow but very steady pace. At one point, we saw a B&N employee pushign a handcart with a stack of the books. I ran out of line and grabbed a copy, then went back and snagged another. They were already signed by Buzz. Mary very graciously swapped her unsigned books with our already signed books so the girls could get them autographed. I think we only waited about an hour before we were atthe very front of the line. Buzz was very nice - he signed the books and even shook both girls hands. ::Eldest later said that she wouldn't wash her hand ever again:: I also shook his hand. There was another man sitting next to him who was also autographing the book. His name is Wendell Minor. I complimented him on the illustrations in the book. They really were beautiful.
After we got out autographs, Husband brought the girls downstairs to get a drink while Mary and I (quickly) browsed through the music section. We headed back downstairs and found Husband, looking rather frazzled, and the girls. We decided to go to get a drink at the cafe while Husband got an opportunity to browse around B&N child-free. Eldest ordered a hot chocolate, Youngesta pepsi and I chose a Double Chocolate Chip Frappuccino Blended Crème. OMG. It was heaven in a plastic cup. We sat for a little while and enjoyed our drinks before we had to bring the girls to the restrooms. We shopped and had a very nice time.
We finally got back home around 1130pm. It was so worth the trip.
Youngestand her copy of the book
Eldest - looking adorable as usual.
Eldest meeting Buzz Aldrin
Buzz signing the book. The man next to him, Wendell Minor, illustrated the book.
Buzz shaking Eldest's hand. Thank goodness Mary got this photograph. I missed taking a photo of him shaking Youngest's hand. She stepped right up to shake his hand. She wasn't shy about it at all.
Posted by Cate at 10:57 AM | Comments (9)
August 12, 2005
Buzz Aldrin
Tonight, the four of us will be driving to the Barnes and Noble in Paramus, NJ to meet Buzz Aldrin. He just recently released a childrens book and will be signing copies of them at the store. I was thrilled discover the information about the book signing on his website. It's going to be so incredibly fascinating to meet a man who actually walked on the moon! The girls are excited too. Husband met Mr. Aldrin many years ago and got an autograph and his photograph taken with him. I haven't seen the photograph but we still have the autograph. I am thrilled that the girls will be able to meet an American hero like Mr. Aldrin.
Posted by Cate at 12:09 PM | Comments (2)
August 11, 2005
How about some more?
More what?
House pictures of course!
Posted by Cate at 04:39 PM | Comments (12)
Good-bye
I'm feeling a little emotional today. My fantastic neighbors are moving to North Carolina. We've known them for about eight years. Her youngest son, who is one year younger than Eldest, would play with Eldest all the time. While I am thrilled for them, I am pretty sad to see them leave. She stopped over this afternoon and we chatted for about 20 minutes, pretty much delaying the real reason why she stopped to visit.
Saying good-bye.
She finally stood up and said she had to get back to her house. The closing is tomorrow. I walked her to the door and when she turned around to give me a hug, I just dissolved into tears. She had also started to cry. We hugged again and she walked away, wiping her eyes.
She didn't look back.
Tonight, I watched this week's Six Feet Under. I cried through just about the entire episode. I think watching Nate's memorial service gave me flashbacks to my Dad's service. It was beautiful. The gentleman who read my father's eulogy was kind enough to email me a copy several days later. I still pull it up and re-read it every once in a while. I still cry when I read it.
I am tired of good-byes.
Posted by Cate at 12:01 AM | Comments (8)
August 10, 2005
A Nightmare
Eldest came home from Girl Scout camp today telling me that there was an accident at the Boy Scout camp. She saw several helicopters circling above the campgrounds. (the Boy Scout camp borders right along side to the Girl Scout camp). Imagine my shock and horror when I heard that an 8-year-old girl was killed and 3 others hurt in tree fall at Boy Scout camp.
The story is below. (link)
My thoughts and prayers go out to all the injured girls and that poor little girl's family. My heart breaks at the very thought.
OCEAN TOWNSHIP, N.J. - An 8-year-old girl was killed and three others injured Wednesday when an oak tree crashed down on them while they were learning about first aid at a Boy Scout camp, authorities said.
The girls were participating in a class being taught as part of an overnight camp when the 31-foot tree suddenly snapped, falling on the picnic table at which they were sitting, Police Chief Kenneth Flatt said.
The tree broke about three feet from its base and crashed through a tarp over the picnic table, landing on the girl's head. She was pronounced dead at Southern Ocean County Hospital in Manahawkin.
The other girls - ages 9, 10 and 16 - suffered minor injuries. Their identities weren't immediately released. One girl suffered a broken ankle; the others had bruises and scrapes.
A counselor who heard the tree crack before it fell yelled to the youths, but they couldn't get out of the way, Flatt said. The point of impact was about 10 feet from the top of the tree, he said.
"It was an accident. There was no warning. There wasn't a whole lot anybody could do," said Flatt.
The girls were among a group of 17 children from a northern New Jersey group called the Resident Camp Association. They were on a weeklong "Learning For Life" program at the heavily wooded, 600-acre Joseph A. Citta Scout Reservation, according to Ethan Draddy, an executive with the Jersey Shore Council of Boy Scouts of America, in Toms River.
He did not know what community the group was from.
"Learning For Life" is a Boy Scout-developed program that aims to build children's confidence and values.
There were seven counselors on the scene at the time, and one who had been teaching the 45-minute first aid class administered cardiopulmonary resuscitation on the girl, to no avail. Police arrived about six minutes after the 11:59 a.m. call, Flatt said.
The camp undergoes a safety inspection that includes forestry at least twice a year, but it wasn't clear whether the tree was part of that inspection, he said. It had rained overnight but there had been no lightning reported, Flatt said.
"There are a number of reasons that tree could've fell down. I'm not going to address them," said Flatt.
The group had arrived Sunday and was to stay until Friday, Draddy said.
"We are feeling completely and utterly devastated," he said.
The death was the latest in series of tragedies to strike scouting-related activities this summer.
Four adult Boy Scout leaders were killed in a July electrical accident in Bowling Green, Va. Five other people have died this summer from drowning and lightning during Scout outings in Wyoming, New Mexico, Utah and California.
Posted by Cate at 05:06 PM | Comments (6)
August 09, 2005
More pics
I know it must be boring for all you guys but I am so excited about the addition. I'll put the pictures in the extended entry. These were taken around 530pm when Youngestand I got back home from her playdate.
This is the view of the addition from the corner of the yard by the pool.
This is another shot of the addition, obviously from the other corner.
A straight shot from the back of the house. Note Husband in the future "mudroom".
Husband standing in the doorway of the future bathroom.
This is where my french door will be placed. Oooh - I can't wait for that!
This is the view of the addition (the bathroom) from the top corner of my driveway. Note the window on the side - that is in the bedroom.
My nice big walk-in closet. Hooray! I've got storage! The sliding door will be gone, praise Jesus. I've always disliked that door.
Posted by Cate at 07:38 PM | Comments (6)
OMG! It's really real!
Woohooo! I'llpost more pics later. I can't get into the backyard yet.
Posted by Cate at 02:59 PM | Comments (5)
Welcome Home Friends
Shuttle Discovery Lands Safely
We watched the Shuttle land before Eldest went off to camp. It is so incredible to watch.
Posted by Cate at 08:28 AM | Comments (2)
SO want this!
I must own this! I can't believe Season 1 aired in 1976! Good Lord! 1976?
Posted by Cate at 12:55 AM | Comments (6)
August 08, 2005
Wasn't expecting this just yet
I was reading my email news alerts and discovered that Peter Jennings has died from lung cancer. My thoughts are with his family.
Posted by Cate at 08:04 AM | Comments (5)
August 07, 2005
Off to a BBQ
We have a great family on our street that is moving in a few days. So, they are having a party at their house this afternoon. It's gonna be fun.
Catch you later poppets!
Posted by Cate at 02:48 PM | Comments (0)
Professor SNAPE?
(snagged from the wonderfully wacky Wendi)
This can't be right!
Harry Potter Personality Quiz by Pirate Monkeys Inc.
Posted by Cate at 09:38 AM | Comments (2)
Fun
A big thank you to everyone who played along in the 25 Word Challenge. Alas, all good things must come to an end.
But, the Carnival is up over at Sharon's place There is a lot of great reading there. Go check it out.
Oh - check out the photo of the day in the extended entry. The house is starting to come together very nicely!
It needs to be inspected tomorrow and the rest of the framing should be completed by Wednesday.
Posted by Cate at 08:44 AM | Comments (5)
August 06, 2005
25 Word Challenge
this is a sticky entry. it will remain on top all day. any new entries will be posted below
Miz Feisty has graciously allowed me to the host this week's 25 Word Challenge. The challenge is to continue the story using only 25 words. You may post as often as you'd like but no consecutive contributions. Don't forget to refresh the comment page before actually posting your contribution!!
So, without further ado - let's get started..
CRASH!
Bianca was jolted awake when she heard the almost deafening noise. Jumping out of bed, she ran to look out her back window and saw...
Posted by Cate at 11:59 PM | Comments (14)
Framing!
The crew is here to start with framing the addition. So far, one guy has injured himself but other than that, things are proceeding smoothly. I'll have more pictures up today.
Posted by Cate at 10:19 AM | Comments (0)
August 05, 2005
I'm back and I'm BURNED
Guess what dummy didn't use sunscreen today?
You guess it.
I look like a frigging lobster. I'd put my picture up but I'm way to embarrassed. I look awful.
::sigh::
Posted by Cate at 05:44 PM | Comments (4)
Beach Baby
That's where we're heading today!
Woohoo!
Posted by Cate at 10:08 AM | Comments (2)
August 04, 2005
Bloggin' from the 'berry
That's right. I am blogging from my little public library.
The girls and I got all our errands done - food shopping, library, butcher shop and getting gas for the car. I dragged all the stuff into the house and realized that the power was out. CRAP! So, I picked through all the bags for the cold items, whipped open the refrigerator door, literally shoved all the cold items inside, then WHAM! Slammed the door closed.
I called our electric company's outage hotline to report loss of power - on a 95 degree day - and I was so happy to hear that power would most likely be out until 4pm. Yippie. I told the girls to put their shoes back on because we were going to McD's for lunch. They were thrilled - you'd think I never fed them before. LOL.
After lunch, we headed back to the library. Of course, the heavens opened up and it poured just as I parked my car. Luckily, I keep umbrellas in my car so we were able to get inside without getting too soggy. The girls wanted to play on the computers and I wanted to look for books for me to read.
Here's what I found for today:
The Givenchy Code - Julie Kenner
Call It a Gift - Valerie Hobbs
The Garden of Eden - Eve Adams (I giggled when I read the author's name - very cute)
A Child Called It - Dave Pelzer
and the sequel
The Lost Boy - Dave Pelzer
The 2,000 Best Games & Activities - Susan Kettmann
What Your Fourth Grader Needs to Know - The Core Knowledge Series
I am looking for more book recommendations. Any suggestions?
Posted by Cate at 03:38 PM | Comments (5)
Zoo
Yesterday, The girls and I visited a small zoo near us called the Popcorn Park Zoo. They are a part of the Associated Humane Society and they do a fantastic job with keeping the zoo very nice and clean. The animals are very happy. Just about all of these animals have been rescued from bad situations. Anyone remember the man from Ohio who was feeding his bears Krispy Kreme doughnuts? There's another bear, BooBoo, who was traded to a car dealer for a used car. I'm not making this stuff up people. Anyone remember the horrific attacks on the birds? (link, link, link). I had written about the attacks on my blog here, here, and even here. I still can't believe the responses from the people that came to these kids defense here. I finally had to close the thread because of threats towards me. I wonder if these kids are still in jail?
Anyway, we had a lovely time. See?
Princess the Camel, formerly a pet of Doris Duke.
Boo Boo, the bear who was traded in for a car
Trudy and Seven -Belgian draft horses rescued from starvation
Youngestdreaming over her ice pop
Two of these bears (Ginger and Maryann) were fed Krispy Kreme doughnuts
Sandy was purchased in Florida and brought to NJ , where it is illegal to own a mountain lion.
After dinner, the girls and I hit the pool. We swam and goofed around for an hour. It was a lot of fun! We also discussed sponsoring some of the animals at the zoo. The girls are very interested in helping and I am all for it. Now, it's just hard to figure out which ones they want to sponsor!
Well, I"m off - have to food shop and all that fun fun stuff!
Posted by Cate at 09:38 AM | Comments (1)
August 03, 2005
:::yawn:::
Well, workmen did arrive yesterday afternoon and finished pouring cement for the addition. They also backfilled in some of mountains of dirt. Eldest and I took a bunch of pictures. Mom stopped down yesterday for lunch and a swim. Unfortunately, the work crew showed up right at lunchtime and went right to work so there was no swimming. As Mom was getting ready to leave, the crew finished up for the day and left!
My friend stopped by to drop off Eldest's mask. She and her two girls ended up staying for a few hours. She left to pick up her son and bathing suits for her girls and came back. All five kids went swimming and jumped on the trampoline. Pool, trampoline, pool, trampoline, you get the idea. I grilled up some hot dogs and burgers and we all had a very nice time. My friend and her crew left around 8pm.
I love the summer.
Youngesthas gymnastics today and I will be interviewing a Girl Scout assistant. Turns out, HER daughter also goes to gymnastics at the same time, just in a different class. Bonus! Plus, I have ANOTHER GS interview tonight at 7pm. Busy busy busy!
Well, I'm off to drag these lazy girls out of bed. Wish me luck.
Posted by Cate at 08:23 AM | Comments (3)
August 02, 2005
Orthodontist
Well, Eldest finally goes back to the orthodontist today. I am curious as to what he will say our next step will be in straightening her teeth.
And now for something completely different.
I watched Six Feet Under last night. Man, what a bummer episode. How horrible is it of me to say that by the end of this episode, I really disliked Nate.
I've got no stream of creativity today so I am going to jump into the shower and get cleaned around here. Mom is coming for a visit today. The girls are excited to see her - it's been a while.
Have a good one!
Posted by Cate at 08:34 AM | Comments (4)
August 01, 2005
No work today
What do you know? I don't post for a couple days and now you - my lovely readers - are treated to three posts THREE in one day. Don't say I never give you anything... ::grin::
I haven't seen anyone working today. I think the foundation needs to be inspected before anything else gets completed. I think the next step is framing. But, we don't have the lumber here - yet.
We had to shock the pool last night. It was uber-icky. It hasn't been getting much use these past two weeks. I am not bringing the girls swimming while the guys are working ten feet away. Of course, the chlorine level is really high so we can't swim in it today. I think we are going to hit the library and maybe stop at the park or something, just to have them run around for a little while.
Have a great day!
Posted by Cate at 10:29 AM | Comments (3)
TIme to wake up
Since I've been awake due to my neighbor's dog, I decided it was time to get the girls out of bed. I wandered over to the cd player in the living room, picked out a cd I made with all kinds of dance songs, turned it on and cranked it up. Eldest staggered out of bed about a minute after thar.
Mom, I bet you are so proud of me.
Posted by Cate at 08:55 AM | Comments (4)
Note the time of this post
I hate dogs that bark in the morning.
Grrrrrrrrrrr.
Posted by Cate at 06:47 AM | Comments (0)