June 23, 2008
A sorting kind of day
The girls and I spent a few hours at Mom's house today. She has quite a few boxes in her basement that she's been wanting to sort through and organize. We planned on eating lunch (subs) at her place. Well, Youngest can't eat subs from the local sub shop due to her food allergies. So, I planned on making Youngest her own submarine sandwich. When we left for Mom's place, I stopped at Genuardis and picked up some of the makings for her sandwich. At lunchtime, I made her sub and watched as she took the first bite. Thank you Lord - she loved it!
Sorting the boxes at Mom's was a little more difficult to do than I thought. It wasn't the work - that part was easy. It was the opening of my Nana and Pop's stuff that caused me to cry several times. Pop's Pennsylvania Railroad keys and assorted paperwork, a photo and newspaper article about my great-grandfather, Nana's little crystal pieces, stuff that my dad had brought home for my Mom. Oy - I'm getting all verklempt just thinking about it again.
We discarded quite a few pieces and I will be making multiple trips to the local thrift shops. They will be thrilled to get all this stuff and Mom is thrilled that her basement is coming back to order. As for me, well, I am happy to be able to help and I enjoy looking at pieces I remember from my childhood.
I really do.
Posted by Cate at 08:24 PM | Comments (1) | TrackBack
June 13, 2008
You Say It's Your Birthday..
It's our birthday too yeah...
Happy Birthday to me and my Mom! I'm twenty-eighteen today...
Ew.
Posted by Cate at 07:39 AM | Comments (4) | TrackBack
April 10, 2008
Mom Update
Your good juju must have worked - the results are benign! WOOHOO!
Posted by Cate at 08:15 AM | Comments (7)
March 16, 2008
Not your standard Easter egg
For those of you who don't know, my youngest daughter has food allergies. She is anaphylactic to all dairy, eggs, nuts, and peanuts. So, when Easter arrives,we don't dye eggs like most people. Instead, we paint wooden eggs I purchase from the crafts store. Here is one I painted. Check out more uploaded pictures by clicking on the photographs.
Posted by Cate at 10:54 PM | Comments (4)
December 28, 2007
Oy
Well, today wasn't that great of a day. First of all, I was pulled over for speeding (47 in a 35). Ouch. A 2 point ticket and Luckily, I have a very good driving record and the most awesomest ever nice officer let me go with a ticket for obstructed vision. (I have a pair of fuzzy dice hanging from the rear view mirror.) This officer saved me quite a few dollars in fines, nevermind the insurance costs and surcharges!
So, after all that, I drive (the speed limit) us to Eldest's horseback riding camp, which is held at the farm where she takes riding lessons every week. Today is the last day of "camp". I am able to come back around 1030am to relax in the viewing room and watch her ride. She enjoys when we see her ride so Youngest and I run a couple of errands and head back to the farm. Eldest and another student arrive in the arena, mount up on the horses and begin to ride.
Everything is going so smoothly. The instructor sets up the crossbeams (similar to this:
but much lower to the ground. Eldest and the horse barely jump over the first one (because it's so low) but when they got to the second one, well, I guess the damn horse thought he was in the damn Olympics because the bastard took off. Even I could see the horse gearing up for the the second set of beams. He jumped and then started cantering around the arena. At this point, I am on the edge of my seat, very tense, watching Eldest. I had a bad, bad feeling coming up on me and had the awful thought that this wasn't going to end nicely. Unfortunately, I was correct. Eldest and the horse made it back around to the beams again, sailed over the first set (beautifully) and when they arrived at the second set of beams, the horse made it over and Eldest, well, she made it over the horse.. and onto the ground.
We've had this happen before and I can honestly assure you that it still scared the ever-loving shit out of me. I raced out of the viewing room and into the barn. She was already up off the ground and brushign herself off when I saw her next. She was shaken up but, after a couple minutes, she got back on that friggin' horse and continued riding.
God, I need a drink.
I've got more going on today but I am so stressed, I need to take a break for now and will try to write more later. Ciao!
Posted by Cate at 02:35 PM | Comments (0)
December 26, 2007
Relaxing Day
Well, I can't believe that Christmas is over! All that preparation and *poof*. Done.
Eldest had horseback riding camp today. AT 9am. It was a lot of fun to wake up at 7am for that. Even she didn't hop out of bed immediately and she is a horse freak. So, while she spent the day riding and shoveling poop, Youngest and I stayed home and played. She was on Webkinz while I chilled out on the couch with coffee and the clicker. Then, after a very brief lunch, she decided she wanted to play with the Wii. How could I say no? She's got some great footwork:
Sorry for the dark room. I didn't realize how dim the living room was until after I shot the video. Both girls love the Wii and I've got to say that I am a big fan as well. I think I need to get another set of remotes and nunchuks for me!
G'night!
Posted by Cate at 10:48 PM | Comments (0)
December 25, 2007
A Very Merry Wii Christmas
Posted by Cate at 08:11 PM | Comments (3)
November 02, 2007
Vitamin Soda?
Perhaps I've been living under a rock but today was the first time I had seen Diet Coke Plus, "the first nutrient-enhanced carbonated soda to be offered by a major brand". Enriched soda? So, I bought it and have been drinking it with my lunch. The verdict? Well, it tastes suspiciously like .. well.. Diet Coke. So, if I can manage to gleen out a couple nutrients out of it, I will continue to purchase it.
Posted by Cate at 12:26 PM | Comments (0)
October 22, 2007
Still mourning
I can't believe it's been three years since my Dad died. I miss him so much. I wish he could see the girls. I wish he could visit me one more time. I miss his silly games with the girls. I miss watching him play chess with Eldest and I know he'd be thrilled that Youngestis now playing chess with Husband. I read through my post from three years ago and all the wonderful comments left by so many of you out there, well, it just made me cry all over again.
Posted by Cate at 08:40 AM | Comments (7)
June 18, 2007
I can't believe she did it
Eldest decided that she wanted to donate her hair to Locks of Love. She had eleven inches of hair that was neatly and quickly cut off and bagged to send out to the organization. She literally turned into another child - more grown-up. Mature. ::sniffle:: My baby.
Check out the pics of Eldest below.
As you can plainly see, she is thrilled to have finally gotten her hair cut. She's been wanting it much shorter for quite a while. Isn't she gorgeous?
Posted by Cate at 08:09 PM | Comments (9)
June 16, 2007
Another Birthday??
Yep - we've got another one...
Husband - have a wonderful and special day. Pay no mind to the crying children in their bedrooms or the fact that those particular rooms are still not cleaned as requested. Pay no mind to your cranky wife who got all pissed off when she realized that only she threw away her $25 beach badge.
But, everyone, please attention to the fantastic man who, on his very own birthday, dug through not one but two bags of garbage to find said beach badge for his now greatful and loving wife.
Happy Birthday sweetie - I love you!
Posted by Cate at 09:32 AM | Comments (7)
June 13, 2007
Twenty-Seventeen
Happy birthday to me!
My mom and I share the same birthday so please join me in wishing her a Happy Birthday as well.
Oh, and check out the best cake ever -
(image found here)
Posted by Cate at 12:25 PM | Comments (8)
June 07, 2007
Look what's new
Check out the newest pics on Flickr!
Posted by Cate at 03:06 PM | Comments (0)
June 06, 2007
14 years and still going strong
Happy anniversary to us
Happy anniversary to us
Happy anniversary Kate and Husband
Happy anniversary to us.
June 1993:
Today:
Ain't we adorable?
Posted by Cate at 08:28 AM | Comments (7)
December 30, 2006
Happy Birthday Baby
Today, my sweet little baby is turning seven years old.
Where does the time go?
Have a wonderful birthday baby. Daddy and I love you more than you will ever know.
Posted by Cate at 09:39 AM | Comments (6)
November 26, 2006
Blogging from Hoboken
The family and I headed into Hoboken yesterday to visit my brother and sis in law (Tim and Maryellen). We had a great time. We ate an early lunch in their awesome apartment in Hoboken then took a ferry across the Hudson. Tim picked up tickets to the American Museum of Natural History. The last time we were here was when Eldest was about 3 years old and I was *just* pregnant with Olivia. We had a lot of fun in the museum. YoungestLOVED the butterfly exhibit. She desperately wanted to catch a butterfly. That was the only time she actually stood still! Eldest wasn't such a big butterfly fan. She didn't like the fact that the butterflies were all over the place and one might actually land on her. She got out of the exhibit as fast as she possibly could. LOL - poor kid.
We got back to Hoboken around 530ish and Tim whipped up a yummy (and kid friendly) menu. He and Mare challeneged Husband and I to a game of Trivial Pursuit - 80's style. At first, they were stomping us pretty badly. But, their tune soon changed when we caught up to them very quickly. They did win - just barely. It was still quite a bit of fun!
We're still up in Hoboken, relaxing and watching Spongebob. Eldest and Husband already visited Starbucks for us this morning. We'll be leaving in a little while and heading back to Ocean County. Yippie!
I hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving weekend. I'll be visiting you soon!
Posted by Cate at 10:28 AM | Comments (0)
October 20, 2006
Two years
Two years ago today, my Dad lost his battle with colorectal cancer.
I miss him so much.
Posted by Cate at 10:18 AM | Comments (12)
October 15, 2006
New Pics
Posted up on the Flickr page.
Posted by Cate at 10:46 PM | Comments (1)
August 23, 2006
Pictures!
Check out my Flickr album.
Posted by Cate at 10:53 PM | Comments (1)
August 21, 2006
Slightly Sunburned and Sleepy
We made it back home alive. Six Flags was fun - the girls definitely had a blast. I"ll try to upload some pictures to my Flickr account. I've got to get these lil buggers cleaned up and ready for bed!
Husband has an interesting recap on our day. Check out what he's got to say!
Posted by Cate at 07:49 PM | Comments (0)
July 24, 2006
Out for the day
Mom is at the hospital and is having a knee replacement done so I will be there most of the day. Any good thoughts and all would be appreciated.
Will update later.
Posted by Cate at 06:17 AM | Comments (5)
July 15, 2006
Rocket Time!
Yes, I know the image is sideways. I won't be shooting my videos like that again. I just like watching Youngesttake off after the rocket lands.
Posted by Cate at 11:21 PM | Comments (1)
June 18, 2006
Father's Day
Dear Dad,
I think of you every day. Not a day goes by without some distant memory of you popping into my head. I wish you could have lived long enough to celebrate Tim and Maryellen's wedding with us. I know you would have been so proud. But, when you died, some new relationships formed and now, Mom and Millie have become close. I am sure you would have never anticipated that at all!
I love you and miss you so very much.
Katie
Posted by Cate at 10:32 AM | Comments (4)
June 16, 2006
ANOTHER birthday?
Yes it is!
Happy Birthday to my most favorite husband in the whole wide world! I love you!
Some of the many faces of Husband:
Posted by Cate at 10:34 AM | Comments (3)
June 14, 2006
A Lovely Day
Thank you all so much for all of the birthday comments and emails! I had a great day yesterday. The girls and Husband bought me two dvds and this Pittsburgh Steelers hat! Go Steelers!
Mom and I had a nice lunch. It's not too often when just the two of us get a chance to sit and chat. Of course, Mom gave me a very generous gift with the condition that I muct purchase at least two pairs of shorts. I think I can manage that! My brother and Maryellen sent me a gorgeous bouquet of roses. Of course, my friend Lauren gave me a very sweet card and I can't forget Miz Christina who also sent a lovely card.
Ok - I've promised pictures for the longest time. Here are a few from my brother's wedding:
Posted by Cate at 07:20 PM | Comments (8)
June 06, 2006
We've come a long way baby
Happy anniversary to the most wonderful man in my life.
We've certainly been through some rough patches, good times and bad, sickness and in health. We met when I was 18, engaged at 19 and we were married when I was 22. We have been together almost 18 years and married for 13 of them. We have 2 beautiful girls. I love him more and more each day. He is a hard working man, completely dedicated to the girls and myself. I know I can pretty much ask him to do anything and he would move heaven and earth to try to do it. He is my rock and I love him for it.
I love you honey. Let's have many more years together. Face it Husband, you're stuck with me.
Posted by Cate at 09:23 AM | Comments (19)
June 05, 2006
Mark of the Beast?
Hmmm - if 6/06/06 is going to be a cursed day, then how weird would it be that not only is it my wedding anniversary but it's my 13th wedding anniversary?
Creepy, huh? Personally, I think it's pretty neat. I don't believe that the world is going to end or that the devil will appear. Besides, my birthday is coming up too - on the 13th!
Posted by Cate at 07:08 AM | Comments (4)
June 03, 2006
I'm BACK
The wedding was SO MUCH FUN!
I am exhausted. Will post some pics and write more tomorrow.
Posted by Cate at 08:24 PM | Comments (0)
June 01, 2006
Headin' OUT!
Ok folks, I am on my way outta Ocean County and heading to West Orange to check into the hotel and to enjoy the rehersal/dinner. I'll be missing all of you guys! Do me a favor and chant "NO RAIN!" a few hundred times. The weather doesn't look like it's going to cooperate. I am hoping to have lots of pictures... and quite a few drinks too!
Be good and I will catch up with you guys on Saturday.
::smooches::
Posted by Cate at 11:08 AM | Comments (5)
May 17, 2006
Home alive
with a very tired nine year old in tow.
We had a fantastic time visiting with Kathy and her crew and seeing the sights. I'll blog about it more tomorrow - I hope!
Posted by Cate at 08:50 PM | Comments (0)
March 24, 2006
No time!
Oy!
I'm so farookin' busy that it's making me insane.
I miss blogging : - (
I have pictures to upload and email (I'm sorry Lauren!!). Husband and I have been working in the addition. We desperately want this thing completed asap.
Off to do my daily running. Ciao and have a great weekend!
Posted by Cate at 08:24 AM | Comments (5)
March 16, 2006
Moving Day
Mom and Dan are moving to their new place today. They've hired a moving company who is sending six men with two trucks. Let me tell you that those six men will be earning their money today. They have lots and lots AND lots of stuff to move. The girls have a half day today so we can shoot over to the new place around 2pm. Hopefully, the cable guy will show up between his scheduled times of 3pm-5pm. Then, we get to rocket back home so I can cook dinner and run out to a GS service unit meeting.
I've got to work on some PTA family fun night paperwork so I can't stay and chat with you. To all the wonderful people who ordered cookies from Eldest, they will be coming soon. I promise!
Posted by Cate at 09:38 AM | Comments (2)
March 05, 2006
Workin' for the weekend?
More like working ON the weekend. I'm taking a break from packing up the contents of my Mom's china cabinets. Good LORDY - she has an incredible amount of stuff. A lot of them are very good pieces and some are quite old. It's pretty neat to be able to look at a piece and know that my great-grandmother once owned it.
Ok - I'm heading home. I think there's a nice hot shower with my name on it. And, if I'm super lucky, Husband will massage my back with BenGay.
Hubba hubba!
Posted by Cate at 03:18 PM | Comments (4)
February 15, 2006
The end of the day
The girls just got stuffed into bed.
Praise Jesus.
It's been one helluva long day. Husband and I woke up at 530am and started getting things ready. We woke Eldest around 545am and Youngeststaggered out a few minutes later. I helped Youngestget dressed and we picked out a favorite teddy bear and blanket for today's procedure. While I was busy, Husband fed Eldest a fine breakfast of champions.
Here's an interesting donut facts - these particular donuts have 26 grams of fat. EACH. I can't even imagine how many Weight Watcher points it would be. Those are some tasty donuts but I've been good. I haven't had any. When I was pregnant with Eldest, I used to chow those puppies down. God, how nasty.
Anyway, we made it to Same Day surgery (same place where you went Mom) and everything was good. Youngesthung in there and was quite the trooper. The only time she lost it was when she was getting wheeled into the OR. The look on her face - she was so scared - and then crying hysterically.... Oy. It's hard being a Mommy.
Her doctor came out 15 minutes after she was wheeled in and said that everything went smoothly and she was still sleeping. We got to see her about 30 minutes later and she was fine. Smiling and happy to see us. A little bit after that, we were all able to go home. Youngestgot a bit of a nosebleed right before we made it home and she was flipping out. I handed her a napkin and tried to calm her down. She calmed down a little bit as Husband turned down our street and then into the driveway. I jumped out and unlocked the front door. Husband carried Youngestinside and put her on the couch. As I was taking off my coat, Youngeststarts to scream. When I say scream, I really mean SCREAM. Apparently, when Husband moved the napkin, more blood spurted out and Youngestfreaked. Can't say I blame her for flipping out - it looked pretty gross. Again, I calmed her down and the bleeding stopped.
Without rambling on and on, to sum it up, the day was looong. Both girls were home, Husband and I were (and still are) exhausted and I totally got lazy and fed the family a fine meal of McDonalds. I am going to do a few loads of laundry, take a shower then go to bed!
So - how the hell are you?
Posted by Cate at 07:52 PM | Comments (3)
February 08, 2006
For Mom
Here's your pics - check 'em out below.
Mom and her new place - soon be occupied by mid-March.
Posted by Cate at 11:11 PM | Comments (2)
November 27, 2005
For Mom
Your house pics are below!
Posted by Cate at 08:15 PM | Comments (7)
November 26, 2005
Evening time
Everyone is alseep - except for me. Guess I cna always fold some laundry. Wheeeeeeeeee!
Posted by Cate at 09:42 PM | Comments (3)
November 19, 2005
Thank you
My Mom is home. The procedure went smoothly. The results will be in on the 28th. Keep your fingers crossed. Thank you for all the good thoughts and kind emails. {{{hugs}}} You guys rock!
Posted by Cate at 09:06 AM | Comments (4)
November 17, 2005
Good thoughts needed
Mom is at the hospital right now. She's been scheduled for a biopsy due to the cancer popping up back up in her left femur.
Prayers and good thoughts needed please!
Posted by Cate at 02:57 PM | Comments (16)
November 08, 2005
Mom and Dan's new place
For all of those who are visiting, here are some pictures of my Mom and Dan's new home - currently under construction. Click on the extended entry to see 'em.
The front of the house.
The guest room with guests!
The sunroom.
Another view from the front.
Posted by Cate at 01:43 PM | Comments (1)
September 25, 2005
Brilliant
Teh four of us went here to see this. It was fantastic. Eldest was in heaven. The stallions were beautiful and did amazing things like the Courbette and the Capriole.
Courbette - The horse balances on the hind legs and then jumps, keeping the hind legs together and the forelegs off the ground.
Capriole - The stallion leaps into the air, drawing his forelegs under his chest at the height of elevation, and kicks out violently with his hind legs. The capriole can take many years of training.
It was breathtaking to watch these magnificent animals even attempt these stunts.
Posted by Cate at 07:56 PM | Comments (1)
September 17, 2005
Playing the Ponies
The girls and I are going here today with my sis in law and her boyfriend. It should be a good time.
Catch ya later!
Posted by Cate at 08:22 AM | Comments (1)
September 16, 2005
OMG OMG OMG!
My brother, who is in Greece with is girlfriend, just called my mother with the news that he just proposed to MaryEllen and she said YES!
HOORAY!
Oh, I am just so happy!
Posted by Cate at 09:04 PM | Comments (4)
July 24, 2005
Sum-Sum-Summertime
The girls and I paid a visit to the Ocean County Fair yesterday. I got a little crispy on my neck, arms and chest. Ouchies. ::View image::
We had a load of fun visiting the 4-H tents and seeing the goats ::View image::, bunnies ::View image::, cows ::View image::, llamas ::View image::, donkies ::View image::, horses ::View image, chickens ::View image::, and roosters ::View image::. The girls got a pony ride - ::View image:: and ::View image:: I had the girls' portrait sketched ::View image:: and ::View image::
We also saw the Jon Corzine booth. ::View image:: He was speaking at the fair today at 115pm. I also spotted the pro-life booth. ::View image::. I am all for pro-life but posters depicting partial birth abortion on display at a county fair?? I think that's the wrong place and time. I kept shielding the girls from looking at the images. Of course, the booth was right next to the gentleman doing the sketches.
We also visited the NJ 101.5 booth ::View image:: and I did win a 4-pack of tickes to see the Trenton Thunder on 7/27. I was able to guess the name and song title of a band (The Beatles and Day Tripper). Woohoo. The game is 7/27 at 7pm. We're all excited to go to the game. ::View image:: and ::View image::
The girls rode some rides ::View image:: and ::View image::, enjoyed the fair ::View image:: and all it's silly sights ::View image::
Posted by Cate at 07:18 PM | Comments (5)
July 09, 2005
I'm A Survivor
Eldest had her pool party today. We lucked out with gorgeous weather. All the kids had fun. The trampoline was a big, no, make that a HUGE hit. All the chlorine is out of the pool and the bottom of it is full of grass.
I need a nap. LOL.
Posted by Cate at 06:14 PM | Comments (3)
July 08, 2005
Happy Birthday
Today is Eldest's nineth birthday.
I can't believe she is nine. NINE. I look at her and think about how lucky I am to have her as my daughter. I love her so very much. She has made me one very proud mama. She's smart and funny and is incredibly caring and thoughtful.
Happy Birthday baby. I love you.
I know she would be thrilled if people wished her a happy birthday so as a huge favor, today, could all you fine people out there leave a birthday comment for her?
Thanks!
Posted by Cate at 08:02 AM | Comments (24)
July 04, 2005
Fireworks
We just got back home from an awesome fireworks show. The girls had a great time. I tried to take some pictures of the fireworks - I wonder if they turned out.
Anyway, I stink like bug spray. LOL. Off to shower!
Posted by Cate at 10:42 PM | Comments (0)
June 16, 2005
Pictures
A very happy birthday was had. Husband enjoyed his bbq'ed steak, salad, rice and homemade baking soda biscuits. Of course, how can you NOT have a birthday cake?
::image::
He even got a rainbow.
::image::
::image::
A very nice day indeed.
Posted by Cate at 08:45 PM | Comments (10)
Happy Birthday
I want to send a very happy birthday to my wonderful husband.
Thank you for everything - our special marriage, our two beautiful daughters, our home and our life together.
I love you.
Posted by Cate at 12:49 PM | Comments (10)
June 12, 2005
Fantabulous weekend!
We had such a wonderful weekend that I can't even figure out how to express my thoughts. I'll do my best.
Saturday:
Got up early and baked two dozen cookies and a chocolate cake. While that was baking, I made homemade chocolate icing. YUM. Husband cleaned up the yard while I worked inside. Eldest was invited to a pool party (classmate)so one of her friend's mom offered to bring her there AND back. Woohoo! The guest list was my brother and his girlfriend, Mom and Dan and my mom's friends whom I adore. Mom had said that there would be one HUGE birthday surprise for me when she arrived at my house at 1230pm. I had NO clue - I thought she bought herself a new car or a small dog or something
Well, she pulls up at 1230pm and honks the horn. I walked out my front door and saw Dan (Mom's boyfriend), my mom, and another woman. It didn't really register who she was right away. I remember thinking "Wow, she looks a lot like Millie!" (my stepmom). Then, I realized that it WAS my stepmom! HOLY SHIT! My Mom and Step-mom were standing next to each other and smiling! I remember saying "HOLY SHIT!" and they were just laughing at me. (brief history - they never EVER got along. Ever.) I said "It's the sign of the Apocolypse! The Horsemen are coming!" We just laughed and laughed. I was (and stillam) so very happy this very unexpected turn of events came about.
Now, my brother and his girlfriend hadn't arrived yet. While we were standing out in the yard, talking and laughing, he pulled up along the foot of my driveway and Mom and Millie waved at him. He hesitated for a split second then gunned the car and drove down the street! Of course, he came right back amd we were all a bit more hysterical. Mom kept saying "Gotcha!" to me and she sure did.
The BBQ was a lot of fun - tons of food and a lot of good times to cherish. I just wish my Dad could have been there to see this. I am SO happy that my family can be together at one time.
Sunday:
The girls got to go swimming! Granted, the water was 80 degrees but they didn't care one damn bit. Husband had to mow the lawn (again!) and his big project was to move the pool filter and run the electric cables. He needs to bury them underground so he had to dig a big trench as well.
I managed to get some work done around here, vaccuumed the pool and I even got some sun. In fact, I got slightly sunburned. But, it was gorgeous outside today. I'm a little tired - probably from too much sun but I had a great day.
A great weekend indeed.
Posted by Cate at 09:32 PM | Comments (6)
June 04, 2005
Road Trip
The girls and I will be visiting my inlaws today. Husband got there earlier this morning. My FIL wants to put up a fence and all the kids have arrived to help. I spoke with my MIL this morning and asked if I could do some laundry at her house since my dryer is still dead. She said yes, of course. The weather has been rainy so I can't even hang clothes out on the line. I've got stuff hung all over the bathroom and in my bedroom. I am hoping I can get it repaired this week and that the cost is under $200.
Oy.
Well, I'm off for now. Have a great Saturday!
Posted by Cate at 11:09 AM | Comments (5)
May 31, 2005
Fun weekend
On Sunday, we went to a party at my SIL and BIL's house. We all had a great time. We didn't even get home until midnight! The girls ran ALL DAY. Really. All damn day. They are all excited for the next party, whenever that may be. I managed to catch a few pictures from the BBQ and I've posted them below.
View image - Whee!
View image - the girls playing frisbee.
View image - my MIL's new puppy. She's a Cairn Terrier and she's just adorable.
View image - Mmmm! Ice pops!
View image - Time to leave.
Posted by Cate at 09:49 AM | Comments (7)
May 19, 2005
My Nana
My Nana died on May 19, 2001.
I got the call from my Mom while I was driving on the GSP to go visit Nana at the hospital. I just KNEW when I saw my Mom's number come up on my phone.. All she said, at first, was not to go to the hospital, go to her place. I kept saying why why... I knew why. Then she told me, crying, that Nana just died. I had to pull my car over and I bawled. God - I miss her so damn much it hurts.
I can't even talk about her without crying. She was such a fighter..she didn't deserve to die - not this way... Thank GOD the drs said she didn't suffer, at least not at that moment. I had just seen her the night before - She was so cranky! I was trying to show her the proofs of Eldest and Youngest's portraits. She didn't want to see them at first... But, she needed to use the bedpan and I got the nurse for her. She was trying to send me hone but I didn't leave - I remember calling my Mom and telling her that Nana was being cranky. I went back to chat with her some more.. She suddenly asked to see the proofs of the girls. So, I pulled them out, got her glasses and she picked the 1 picture of the girls that me and Mom had agreed upon as the best picture. I remember chatting with her for a few more minutes and she kept telling me to go home. I gave her a kiss, told her that I loved her and I would be back tomorrow to visit. That was the last time I saw my Nana.
I love you Nana. I miss you so very very much.
Posted by Cate at 09:44 PM | Comments (15)
May 17, 2005
The Vet - Update
I spoke with the vet around 330pm. Darla's tests came back fine. Some things were on the high side of normal but the vet was not worried about that. One thing she did say was that Darla was dehydrated and they had a hard time drawing blood. How on earth do you make a cat drink water? We change her water ALL the time. I'm at the point where I leave the water dripping in the bathroom sink and she will, occasionally, drink from that. The vet also mentioned that Darla's calcium level was high which could possibly be cancer. She suggested that Darla should have some x-rays to check out her. Darla would also have to be sedated for the x-ray. I have to ask the vet about the health risk of a 16 yr old cat going under sedation.
My poor kitty.
Posted by Cate at 11:40 PM | Comments (8)
Back from the vet
Oy - what a visit. Darla screamed and yowled and hissed. She truly looked like she was possessed. Youngestgot all freaked out, the poor kid. The vet thinks Darla might have some thyroid or kidney problems. ::sigh:: my poor kitty.
Posted by Cate at 02:03 PM | Comments (2)
May 15, 2005
Day of Pictures
We had a great time. I love visiting NYC.
View image - The girls and Husband.
View image Me and my cool brother.
View image Eldest and Husband
View image Tim, Youngestand me.
View image The girls and Sam. We rode in his carriage around Central Park. The girls LOVED it.
View image The girls in front of a pretty fountain by the Plaza hotel.
View image The American Girl Store in Manhattan. Yes - it IS that big.
View image These employees work in the doll hair salon. Incredible. Husband said I had to take a picture of it and post it on my blog. How'd you like that job?
View image Youngestbegging for a Bitty Baby outfit at the American Girl store.
View image Eldest and Tim.
View image 30 Rockerfeller.
View image Tim and the girls at Rockerfeller Center
View image Another photo of Rockerfeller Center
View image A gorgeous Judith Leiber beaded bag in the Saks Fifth Avenue window display. Isn't it beautiful?
Posted by Cate at 10:16 AM | Comments (9)
April 18, 2005
What I've been doing
I have to put it in the extended entry - it's too much to plop out here.
Saturday - Pual rented a jackhammer and smashed up a lot of stone that was under our deck. The original owner of the house was a mason so there was a ton of poured concrete and bricks under there. I think it was an old porch or step. It took Husband until Sunday to break it all up. The girls and I went to my Mom's place. I cleaned while the girls and Mom played. A friend of hers just had a baby so she stopped by with him. He's a month old and adorable. Eldest was allowed to hold him and she seemed to like holding him. Youngestwouldn't hold him at all! Silly girl.
On Sunday, the girls and I ran out and did some food shopping and picked up a gift card for a friend of Eldest's who was having a birthday party later that day. We had lunch, put the gifts in a gift bag (I had crocheted a hat for the birthday girl Saturday night) and packed a bathing suit and towel for Eldest and we were off. Youngeststayed with Husband.The party was held at a HUGE Catholic church which also had an indoor pool center. NICE! I ended up signing Eldest up for swimming lessons. I am trying to get Youngestsigned up too. We didn't get home until almost 5pm so I whipped up a gormet meal of hot dogs, fries and a salad. The girls ran around the backyard while Husband and I cleaned up and vacuumed. The girls got showered and were in bed by 830pm. Husband and I watched Deadwood on HBO. Another great episode.
Today - Husband was scheduled for another test at 845am. I got a call this morning from the hospital at 730am - cancelling the test. The Xray machine was broken. Umm.. ok. So, Husband went to work instead.
I saw the chiro at 10am. I have been so tense and stressed out that I have a HUGE disgusting cold sore right on my lip. UGH! When I was speaking with the receptionist, the chiro walked up behind me and put his hand on my shoulder. I almost jumped out of my skin! He started to laugh at me - the bastard. LOL! I adore him - the nicest guy around.
I am in the process of setting up dr appointments for the girls. Appointments are made. Youngestneeds a well visit for kindergarten and a followup with the ENT. BOTH tubes have come out of her ear drums but have been sitting in the ear canal for a while. I want them out of her ears.
I have to register Youngestfor kindergarten this week. Youngestis also continuing with gymnastics thoughtout the summer. Eldest (and hopefully Olivia) will be getting swimming lessons that start in the end of May and runs twice a week until the end of June. Eldest has cheer dance until the end of June. Did I mention that it's the same day as swim lessons? OY! She also wants to go to Girl Scout camp. We got the schedule for camp and she is interested in 3 different weeks. They offer a new theme each week and she was very interested in 3 of them. We have Girl Scouts until June. I can't wait for that to be finished either!
Oh, and I've managed to do some laundry and clean the kitchen. Today is my "Catch-up From the Weekend" day. I've barely had time to post.
I need a vacation!
Posted by Cate at 01:31 PM | Comments (3)
March 29, 2005
Picture Time
Ok - here's another "Several Days in Pictures" entry
View image - My cranky cat, Darla. Don't let the sweet name fool you.
The following pictures are from Eldest's room. I don't know if anyone recalls that Husband and I repainted her room and some furniture in February.
View image
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Youngest's ponies:
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Easter Fun:
View image
Monday's GS horseback riding trip:
View image
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Posted by Cate at 09:32 PM | Comments (3)
February 27, 2005
Too much!
I've had enough togetherness. I hope to GOD that school is on tomorrow.
Posted by Cate at 05:05 PM | Comments (4)
February 23, 2005
Feeling sad
When my dad died, I found out that he had a small insurance policy through work and both Tim and I were both beneficiaries.
In today's mail, I received the check from the insurance company. I started to cry before I even opened it. I just put it on my desk. I don't even want to touch it. God, I'm crying again just writing this.
Posted by Cate at 06:39 PM | Comments (8)
February 21, 2005
Sleepover pics
As promised:
My niece (left) and Youngest(right)
Eldest
Posted by Cate at 02:21 PM | Comments (8)
February 19, 2005
Sleepover
The girls and I will be spending tonight at my inlaws house with my 3 sis in laws and niece. It's going to be an all girl sleepover. God help me - but the little ones will have so much fun. My niece is four years old and Youngestloves to play with her. Eldest will actually be the odd man out but I am sure she will be hanging with one or two of her aunties. I am in charge of bringing crafts so I have perler beads and make your own small foam Easter eggs - sorta like this. Off to pack some stuff.
Have a great weekend everyone!
Posted by Cate at 09:16 AM | Comments (4)
December 30, 2004
Nestled in their beds
Everyone is in bed already. Husband was the first one down at 930pm and the girls followed 15 minutes later. So, I am reading my blogs and relaxing with a glass of wine and some cheese. All I need is a roaring fire... and a fireplace too.
Posted by Cate at 10:55 PM | Comments (3)
Lil Miss
Posted by Cate at 02:20 PM | Comments (8)
Special Day
Happy Birthday to my lovely little girl. Olivia, you will always be my baby even though you are a great big girl of five.
We love you very very much.
Posted by Cate at 10:55 AM | Comments (7)
December 28, 2004
Cleanin' Time
The girls and I are headed to my Mom's place to clean this morning. Well, *I* get to clean and the girls get to play. Life is good.
Catch ya'll later!
Posted by Cate at 09:18 AM | Comments (1)
December 21, 2004
Could be rough
Husband took the girls out shopping. They just left about 10 minutes ago. They are going out to buy my Christmas presents. Isn't that sweet? Awww.
Yippie! I have the house to myself! Woohooo!
Actually, I am going out shopping too. See ya!
Posted by Cate at 06:47 PM | Comments (0)
December 12, 2004
Break
I'm still at Mom's house. I need to finish her kitchen, dust the living room and then vacuum. I hate vacuuming, especially her stairs. ICK ICK ICK.
Who's finished with their shopping? Did you wrap everything too? Hell, I still have a few more presents to pick up as well as wrapping everything! Arrgghh!
Posted by Cate at 01:34 PM | Comments (3)
Cleanin' Time
The girls and I are going to my Mom's house. Eldest has a project to completed and I will be cleaning. Husband will be hanging Christmas lights.
Who says Sunday is a day of rest?
Posted by Cate at 09:18 AM | Comments (2)
December 06, 2004
Birthday
The girls had a birthday party to attend yesterday from 3pm-430pm. It was for my adorable niece who just turned 4. The poor child was sick. She didn't even enjoy her own party. Of course, my girls had a blast.
The party was held at one of those play places that has a ball pit, huge climbing unit with a slide, mats, jumpy things... all that fun stuff. The bonus - this play place was only open for 1 month so everything was still pretty clean and didn't look disgusting at all. The girls ran around and played and had a great time. I did manage to snap a few pictures that I haven't pulled off the digital camera yet.
This morning, after Eldest left for school, Youngestand I ran a few errands including a stop at the Dollar Tree. I love dollar stores. What did we ever do without one? I snagged some gold garland for our Christmas tree. I really wanted silver but they didn't have any left. The gold I chose wasn't the SUPER shiny yellow gold but a more muted shade of gold. I also grabbed some other things for Girl Scouts and goody bags.
After leaving the Dollar Tree, I drove around my neighborhood and checked out some potential houses for sale. There were some good and some bad. The realtor has stopped at our house yesterday before we left for the party and evaluated our house. I was surprised at the figure she quoted us as it was a lot more that I thought it could sell for on the market. Wish us luck. I hope we can find the right house for us out there soon.
So, our plan today is to finish decorating the tree. We set it up Saturday night and managed to get the lights on it. We stopped at putting up other decorations because we wanted garland. The four of us sat on the couch, with all the lights off, and just enjoyed looking at the tree. I started to think about my Dad and the tears just ran down my face. I had to leave the room so the girls didn't see me all upset.
It's going to be a tough Christmas.
Posted by Cate at 12:44 PM | Comments (3)
November 14, 2004
Break time
Hello!
I am blogging from Mom's house. I came up to clean her place and help her around the house. She's doing very well - the recovery from her shoulder surgery seems to be right on track. She will see the doctor tomorrow for a follow-up.
Husband is home - working in my kitchen. There were a few places that needed to be spackled and painted. He is very graciously doing that for me while I have the girls out of the house - and out of his hair!
Hopefully, I will catch up later. Have a great day!
Posted by Cate at 01:20 PM | Comments (1)
November 12, 2004
YAY!
My Mom is home from the hospital. She sounds pretty good.. but she's still sore. I have scouts today so I won't even be updating until later tonight.
Posted by Cate at 12:26 PM | Comments (4)
November 09, 2004
Feeling sad
I miss my dad ::sigh::
Posted by Cate at 01:30 PM | Comments (10)
November 07, 2004
It's done
My brother, stepmom and I sprinkled my father's ashes this morning. Well, my brother put out the ashes for us. That was the one thing that I could not bear to do. I felt bad having my brother do it but the thought of the ashes and them touching me... it really freaked my crap. Is that awful of me or what? I mean, how selfish am I?
My poor brother... what a crappy 30th birthday week for him.
Anyway, we placed his ashes in the spot he wanted them placed. It was hard.. so hard.. we all cried.. But, he was finally at rest exactly where he wanted to be placed. We decided today would be a good day since the NYC Marathon will be run today. Dad's first marathon was the NYC Marathon. He completed it in 1994 - at age 53 with only 1 year of training (after a heart attack in 1993)- with a time of 4:54:19.
:::sniffle:::
We decided to go out to breakfast at Dad's favorite diner. Why not? So, we had a nice breakfast and were able to chat for a while. It was nice.. as nice as it could be...
Posted by Cate at 11:47 AM | Comments (8)
October 24, 2004
My Father's Eulogy
It is quite long but it was the most beautiful tribute to my dad that I had ever heard.
My name is Joe Cinege and I was asked by Abe's wife Millie to say a few words about the man we all love. Thank you, Millie - I am truly honored.
Abe is known by many names - to some he is Abe, to others including myself, he is Abbas (a beautiful and fitting Arabic name meaning Father). To some he is uncle, cousin, or brother. To one, he is son. Still to others he IS father, dad and Papa. To Millie he is often Sweetheart or My Sweetie and most especially, MY LOVE. To all, he is FRIEND and to all, he is loved.
I met Abbas nearly 40 years ago on the campus of Upsala College in East Orange. It was 1966. Like any other college student, Abbas quickly earned a nickname. Since he was somewhat of an elder statesman (we were a bunch of 18 year olds and he was a world traveler - the wise man who often had visited Europe and then left Germany with a small carry bag to come by boat to NYC). This earned him the respected name of Papa-san.
As a respectful and reserved GENTLE - MAN from the mid-East, we also learned to call him Mr. Rezvan. Abbas taught us to respect others. He often called me Mr. Cinege and our other college buddy Charlie, Mr. DuBois. EH, maybe there was just a TINGE of sarcasm - but also a larger tinge of respectfulness. But I think my favorite nickname for Abbas is The Persian Prince - for in many ways, he was royalty.
In fact, one of the true measures of a man of royalty is how he treats others. In later life, whenever Abbas would greet me, we would both embrace and he would sincerely ask, "How are you, my friend?" My friend. What an honor for me to be HIS FRIEND. And the measure of a man's love for his fellow man is reflected in how someone treats the so called "undesirables" of this world. Abbas once had a blind roommate in college named Roger, who, it is fair to say, was also quite a PAIN in the NECK at times. Abbas didn't just do his duty and tolerate him as a roommate, but he patiently instilled social graces into a fellow human being who was in need of all the kindness he could get.
One evening, Roger went missing from his dorm room during a drifting snowstorm and it was Abbas who went looking for him and found him crying in a snowdrift and patiently guided Roger back to the dorm. Even back then, Abbas was being a shining example of how to treat other people - with dignity, respect and love.
Speaking of dignity and respect - I bet if you look up those two words in the dictionary, you'd see his picture next to both definitions. Dignity - Respect - Abbas. And it was these characteristics, along with the word CHARMING, that caused his future BRIDE, Millie to smile like a schoolgirl when Abbas was first pursuing her affection in the late 1980's. Mr. Persistent finally got Millie to go out to dinner with him, and the rest is history - a love story between the Persian Prince and his BROOKLYN Princess. I think at times the Mischievous Millie enjoyed saying slightly IMPROPER things just to watch Abe blush or fidget and sometimes bellow out, MILL, STOP IT!
Pedestals were Abbas' weapon of choice when it came to Millie - he always had her on one and she loved it - but so did he. He loved to pamper and Millie loved to be pampered - whether it was that chilled glass of wine waiting for her at the end of a long commute home or the frequent multi-course gourmet meal that the Culinary King whipped up at the last minute. I'm sure he probably even did the dishes.
She'd be the first to admit this - Millie was basically spoiled and Abbas loved spoiling her. Once she wanted to go to a Kenny Rogers concert but Abe told her NO, because he hated Kenny Rogers. From what she told me, I don't think Abbas ever told her NO to anything, and she was quite taken back. She was probably thinking, "How could he say NO to me?" Of course, two weeks later he handed her the concert tickets and even if he didn't have a good time, he probably made it look like he did.
It's hard to say the name Abe or Abbas - by itself. It sounds more natural when you say Abe & Millie or Abbas & Millie, or like I've said, The Prince and The Princess. They did everything together - except food-shopping - that was Abe's domain.
I'd like to recall for you a Fairy Tale. The Prince and The Princess each had a family when they met - both were previously divorced and both had children from that previous marriage. Abbas embraced Millie's Linda as his own; and along with Linda's husband, Dennis, they became Rezvans of sort. And their love produced a granddaughter for Abe & Millie - her name is Victoria, or as Papa would kid around - at times Gloria and at other times Maria.
Abbas was a SEVERELY PROUD man. SEVERELY PROUD. And two of the people he was most proud of were his daughter Katie and his son Tim. For example, when we were together last Saturday in Abbas & Millie's living room, we were with Tim for several hours - and after he left, Cindy told Abbas how wonderful Tim is - Abbas listened carefully and then stated matter-a-factly that he doesn't like to pound his chest about his children or grandchildren - but his chest was puffed up and he had that trademark twinkle in his eye and that satisfied smile. Abbas knew he did a good job, but of course he would never OBVIOUSLY take the credit.
Millie also came out ahead with the extended relationships too. She HAS Katie and her husband Husband. And their love created two more grandchildren for Abe & Millie - Eldest and Olivia. Also the apples of Papa's eye. I got to see Husband's strength firsthand earlier this week as he gave such comfort to Millie in her hour of need. And Tim's girlfriend, Mary Ellen was a true angel as she held Abe's hand in his hour of need.
But I also witnessed the great love of a father waiting for his children to arrive so that he knew it would be OK to go. This is FAMILY and this is what summed up the life of Abbas Rezvan - His Family. In their den is a collage picture of Abbas' father, the children, the grandchildren and Millie & Abbas - which gives lasting truth again to the old saying that "A Picture IS Worth A Thousand Words."
As if being a successful father, grandfather and husband isn't enough, Abbas had many other successes - too many to name.
For starters, we have a man who grew up in Tehran, Iran and spent much time in Europe. He then made his way from Germany to the US with basically nothing but a small bag and the clothes on his back. He was a go-getter. He improved his English language skills by talking everyday with the Mailman. He managed to get himself enrolled in college and worked his tail off to pay his bills. Of course his determination and love of learning led him to graduate college with a degree in chemistry, earn an MBA and graduate the Culinary Institute.
Abbas had a long and successful career in the food services business, most recently as the director for Brookdale Community College. Prior to that, he worked at the famous Serendipity Restaurant in NYC before it became so famous. He also had the energy, dedication and intelligence to teach business courses in the evenings at the college. He taught in a way that made learning fun - by relaying his many stories and experiences in life. His love of knowledge was contagious. Just a week ago he was giving us all a lesson on growing and processing coffee.
One of Abe's heroes was a man named Fred Lebow. I don't know how many people knew that, but Abbas told me about it years ago. Fred was a famous race organizer for running in New York and was diagnosed with brain cancer at the age of 58 - then ran the five borough marathon two years later. You can see why Fred was Abbas' inspiration - they both were determined to do what they loved doing regardless of any obstacles.
So of course Abbas was always up for a challenge and he used the inspiration of Fred to carve out his own running records. His basement is like the Runner's Hall of Fame. His races are too numerous to mention but to give you a sense of his accomplishments all you have to know is a few - like the NYC Marathon, the Boston Marathon, and many Spring Lake 5's - the latest of which was only a mere 21 weeks ago on May 29th - which he ran with his son, Tim.
Abbas has done much in his lifetime to be proud of - but there's one thing he did which I believe meant more to him than any of his other achievements - and that is the day he became an American Citizen. My wife, Cindy, & I were at Charlie & Lynn's in Pennsylvania waiting for Abbas & Millie to arrive. We had a weekend planned together. When they got there, Abbas was beaming and Millie nudged him and said, Go ahead - tell 'em, Abe - you've been dying to tell 'em. He told us he had been studying and had taken all the steps to become an American Citizen and he proudly showed us the documentation. Then he collected his well earned hugs.
There are many pictures and plaques hanging on the walls of the Rezvan home. One in particular caught my eye the other day - it's the little plaque that is entitled PAPA. It describes the characteristics and attributes of the man who carries the name, PAPA - and no one has earned the right to carry it more than Abbas.
There are 9 attributes.
The Man with the name PAPA (Characteristics & Attributes)
The man who carries the name PAPA
1-Expression
Known to set a Good Example
I know of no better example of goodness, than the tangible proof of a daughter and son who always made a proud man prouder. In many ways, Katie & Tim reflect the goodness of their father. For those who never had the good fortune to meet Abbas - just spend some time with Kate & Tim and you'll see what you've missed out on.
The man who carries the name PAPA
2-Personality
A Faithful person full of honor
By his own admission, Abbas was not a religious man - but more important, he was spirit filled. He was a faithful friend, father, husband and PAPA. And he lived a life of honor above all else.
The man who carries the name PAPA
3-Natural
Is a keen observer of detail
Abbas knew a lot about many different subjects - and when he would impart his wisdom, he did not speak in generalities, he got down to specifics. I think Millie can attest to the fact that when she was with others and was acting a little too Millie-like, she always was caught by the watchful eye of the Observer of Detail.
The man who carries the name PAPA
4-Instinctive
Quick to react to danger
The way I look at this one is - Abbas was instinctively The Protector to keep his Family shielded from any and all dangers. He would always be the one to carry the burden of worry in a very stoical manner.
The man who carries the name PAPA
5-Emotional
Has a gentle way of speaking
This one goes without say - he was a gentle-man in all he did and said. I've never seen him angry - nor did I ever hear him use disrespectful language. Many times, he was the voice of reason and calm in a world of turmoil and noise.
The man who carries the name PAPA
6-Reputation
There when someone is in need
I don?t have to say anything for this characteristic - I just have to glance over at Tim, Katie, Linda or Millie and they know Abbas was always there - in their times of need.
The man who carries the name PAPA
7-Physical
Possesses great vigor
What more can be said - he was Our Marathon Man. He was probably a stronger runner after his triple bypass surgery than before it.
The man who carries the name PAPA
8-Mental
A genuine problem solver
I've always known Abbas to be one to say, we will work it through. Even when he became ill, he never complained - his philosophy was that he would deal with it. His mantra about problems was - it's all right - we will get through this - don't worry.
The man who carries the name PAPA
9-Goal
To succeed even where others fail
Success is measured in never giving up - never surrendering. Abbas had many successes - coming to US, learning the language, getting degrees, working at good jobs, being an adjunct professor. But his greatest success is as a loving human being - full of dedication to those closest to him. Abbas succeeded at being A Lover of all mankind. He had a zest for life, because he had a zest for people - especially his family. Millie often called him DEAR - and Millie too was his DEAR.
To Abbas - it is my honor to say, I love you, My Friend. It is my belief that he is with God and has already heard the words, "Welcome Home, My Friend."
On Monday, when Abbas and I were together in his bedroom, I asked him what I can do for him. He looked up at me with an expression that had only one thing written on it and he said to me in his very formal way, "Joseph, pray for me, my friend."
I promised him I would - and I'd like to invite anyone here, if they would like to join me right now in fulfilling that promise.
Our Father which art in heaven, hallowed be thy name
Thy kingdom come
Thy will be done in earth as it is in Heaven
Give us this day our daily bread
And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those that trespass against us
And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. AMEN
I'd like to finish with a poem - I don't know who the author is but I found it comforting and hope you do to. It's called "His Journey's Just Begun"
Don't think of him as gone away
His Journey's just begun
Life holds so many facets
This earth is only one
Just think of him as resting from
The sorrows and the tears
In a place of warmth and comfort
Where there are no days and years
Think how he must be wishing
That we could know today
How nothing but our sadness
Can really pass away
And think of him as living in the
Hearts of those he touched
For nothing loved is ever lost
And he was Loved So Much.
Thank you Millie for this great honor of being able to speak about MY FRIEND
Gob Bless Abbas and God Bless us all.
Posted by Cate at 08:34 PM | Comments (16)
October 21, 2004
No More Pain
Dad passed away last night at 730pm. We were all there with him. He was only 63 years old. O'Brien Funeral Home in Belmar, NJ will be handling all the details.
I miss you Daddy and I love you very much.
Posted by Cate at 06:59 AM | Comments (89)
October 18, 2004
Waiting
Stuff about my dad.
I was at Dad's today - he didn't even know I was there. He spoke to me but thought I was someone else. He got up this morning and tried to get dressed to go to work. My sm is having an awful awful time - she promised him she would let him die at home.. with dignity.. she can't care for him.. not at this level. She's all torn up about having him go to the care center. It's killing me to know that my dad is still alive but he's not here. But, the type of care that he needs - she can't give. I can't give.. I want to - but I can't.
When I was there yesterday, I was in the bedroom, chatting with him about the Jets game and other little stuff. He was responsive. At one point, after his medication, he was sleepy. I helped him into bed and sked him if he needed anything else. He said yes and tilted his head down so I could give him a kiss. So I did. I told him that I loved him as I tucked him into bed. I tiptoed out of the room and closed the door.
I wish this didn't hurt so much.
Posted by Cate at 04:47 PM | Comments (11)
So tired
I stayed up late to watch the Yankees finish off the Red Sox. Imagine my surprise that the Red Sox actually won. What a game! I hate watching teams get slaughtered so a good exciting ball game was fun to see.
The four of us visited Dad yesterday. There's not a lot to say. Eldest was pretty freaked out at the sight of my Dad. The last time she saw him, he was ambulatory, he had his mustache, some hair on his head and he wasn't jaundiced. Yesterday - she barely went near him and, sadly enough, he didn't even notice. Maybe that wasn't so bad. I think *he* would have felt awful if he knew Eldest was scared of him because of his "yellow eyes". I am hoping to bring her back next week and that will probably be her last visit.
Honestly, I don't know how much longer his body will be able to hold up against all the poisons and toxins in his bloodstream. His lover is pretty much nonfunctional. My stepmom is wonderful. She is trying so hard to do everything she can for Dad. He didn't want to die in a hospital. He wanted to be at home, with his family and everyone who cares for him.
Christ - I am just babbling and crying while I type. I don't want him to die.. but I hate watching him suffer. Cancer is a hideous horrible disease. No one should be suffering from it. No one.
I've got to get ready - Youngestand I will be there for a little while this morning. I also will be going in to Eldest's class to help her teacher this afternoon. My FIL will be down to stay with Olivia. I'll blog more later.
Posted by Cate at 07:53 AM | Comments (8)
October 15, 2004
Damn
I just got off the phone with my stepmom. Dad is not really well. He is confused, most likely due to the heavy duty medications. It's really coming down to a matter of time.
Goddamnit. It's not fair.
Posted by Cate at 11:50 AM | Comments (7)
October 13, 2004
My Dad
I've got a huge entry below... read at your own risk ; - )
O and I got to Dad's place by 915am. I knew something was wrong when I walked in and saw him laying on the bed using the O2 machine. He was having a lot of pain. For Dad to admit to pain, it must have been pretty bad. I checked his medication sheet (all the info about when he last took his meds) and he had taken a painkiller only an hour earlier. It didn't even touch the pain.
I called hospice and then my stepmom. The nurse called back within 10 minutes and said for me to give him another dose of painkillers (oxycodone) and she would be over within 40 minutes. After I gave Dad his meds, I called my stepmom back. She and I discussed a couple things and she left work to come home ASAP. Luckily, after about 15 minutes of Dad taking the meds, the pain was reduced. His back aches badly. I was leaning on his back as well as massaging it. He wanted O to stand on his back. Ok. She walked along near his right shoulder blade. He said he felt somewhat better. Shortly thereafter, he fell asleep.
The nurse arrived pretty quickly. She examined him and scolded him (nicely) for not taking the additional meds. He was permitted to take 2 oxycodones every 3 hours and he was only taking 1. My stepmom got home around this time as well. The 3 of us as well as my Dad were in his bedroom, discussing some options. I mentioned to the nurse about dad having a helluva time breathing and did she think that steroids would work for him? The nurse agreed with me and said that since she would be calling the doctor, she would ask him what he thought.
While she placed the call to the doctor's office, my SM made some tea for Dad and I brought it in for him. I also snagged a stella doro cookie for him since he hadn't eaten at all today. I think he started to perk up a bit after that. I have say here that Dad's doctor rocks. He had the nurse paged right away and she was able to call his office and the office patched the call directly to the doctor at the hospital. All of that within 15 minutes. Wow. His doctor was very upset about Dad's final diagnosis from the cancer institute and said that whatever he could do for him, just to call at any time and he would help. I want to hug this man, I really do.
So, the doc upped his oxycontin, still wants him to take the oxycodone for any breakthrough pain, prescribed the steroid for his breathing and also compazine for nausea. I hope this works for now.
As for Dad's overall health, not good news at all. He is failing. The nurse said (to me and my SM) that Dad will start showing signs of confusion and also very very tired. All that is being done at this point is just to ease his pain and make his remaining time as comfortable as possible. I don't know how much more time he has left - weeks, a month, several months.... I just don't want my dad to hurt anymore.
I know I have to say something to the girls... and soon. They do know that Grandpa is very sick but I don't want to leave it at that. I think I will be bringing them both up to see him while he is somewhat able to speak to them. I am not ready for this.
Posted by Cate at 01:44 PM | Comments (17)
Good morning
Well - it's Wednesday. The week is halfway over. Oy, and still I have so much to do!
Of course, I am headed to my dad's house this morning. I think he wants to go out and do a couple errands. We shall see how he feels. Yesterday, I did get more information about his family back home in Iran. I wish I had kept in contact with my cousins and other family members. I feel sad that I don't really even know them at all. I might try to connect with them at one point... but not now..
Have a great day. Ciao!
Posted by Cate at 08:16 AM | Comments (2)
October 12, 2004
A moment
Dad was doing ok today - he gets winded so easily now. It's really hard to watch. It's even harder not to jump in and finish his sentences or whatever minor thing he is doing. ::sigh:: He is also starting to show signs of jaundice in his eyes and in his skin tone as well. he has been using oxygen at home. Hospice has been called in and they have pretty much taken over his care.
Damn - I need a drink. Anyone want to go out? I need to get really drunk.
Posted by Cate at 04:30 PM | Comments (10)
Dad's place
O and I will be heading over to visit my dad this morning. I hope he's feeling up for visitors....
Oh - I was going to jump on the photo thingie/meme bandwagon but it looks like it's too late. If anyone wants to see pics, email me what you would like to see and I'll post 'em up tonight.
Posted by Cate at 07:45 AM | Comments (5)
October 04, 2004
Devestated
My brother just left me a message about my dad.
It's bad.. about as bad as it could be. The cancer has spread. All over his liver and in his lungs. The doctor is now basically discussing my dad's quality of life and just making him as comfortable as possible. There is really nothing that can be done for him.
Nothing.
Posted by Cate at 12:34 PM | Comments (46)
September 27, 2004
Pacing
I am so worried about dad right now... I hope he's ok.. ugh.. I hate this.. ::sigh:: Oh thank God - P is home...
I'm leaving now.
Posted by Cate at 09:37 AM | Comments (15)
Another call
Millie, my stepmom, just called me again. She wants me to come up to the ER. Dad just went down for a CAT scan. The doc thinks he might have a pulmonary embolism. Shit.
Husband is on his way home in a few and I will be at the hospital. Keep those healing thoughts coming. We can use everything we can get.
Posted by Cate at 08:40 AM | Comments (5)
Early morning phone call
I just got a phone call from my stepmom. Dad is at the hospital. He has been having problems breathing the past few days. I think it must have gotten pretty bad for my dad to willingly go to the ER. He was supposed to go to the Cancer Institute this morning with my stepmom to do some bloodwork. This clinical has been really kicking the crap out of him.
Any happy and healing thoughts for my dad would be greatly appreciated.
Posted by Cate at 06:49 AM | Comments (5)
August 29, 2004
More family fun
My SIL, BIL, niece (3.5) and nephew(2) as well as my other SIL came over for a swim and BBQ today. Lots of fun. All the kids had a great time. My nephew is adorable - just this chunky adorable toddler. I just want to squeeze him! My niece, well, she's a little more reserved but still awfully cute. I just want to kidnap her and have her live with us!
How was your day?
Posted by Cate at 09:44 PM | Comments (1)
August 27, 2004
Six Flags
We all had a GREAT time at Six Flags. The safari was ok... the animals don't even give a crap about the vehicles driving through. They seems.. well.. BORED. LOL. I was half expecting a giraffe to walk up to the car and say "How YOU doin'?".
The rides were fun. I didn't go on many at all. I was going to bring the girls on the teacups but someone has bucketed in one of the cups and the kid was busy cleaning. He said he would be a while. Ew.
I have a ton to do today - cleaning, baking, food shopping, all the fun stuff. Mom and her bfriend will be down tomorrow to go swimming and a BBQ. We are having a very small birthday party for him and we are just gonna relax and have fun. I hope the weather stays nice.
Gotta run!
Posted by Cate at 10:33 AM | Comments (0)
August 26, 2004
Six Flags!
We're outta here in about 20 minutes. Be good!
Posted by Cate at 07:57 AM | Comments (3)
August 19, 2004
Worthy Cause
Please read below.
My brother has recently started training for a mini-triathlon in late September. He will be swimming 0.9 miles, biking 25 miles and running for 6.2 miles. He is doing this to raise money for the Leukemia-Lymphoma Society. Our mother was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma in 2001. Raising money to fight this disease is something that he wanted to do to help her cause. If he commits to raise $2,900 for the cause, a program within the Leukemia-Lymphoma Society will help him train for the race. They are providing him with coaching support, a training regimen and pool training time.
To get the fundraising going, he has also pledged $500 towards his goal of $2,900. He was hoping some people might be interested in supporting this cause to help him cover the difference, Any amount will be appreciated because it will bring him closer to his goal. The good news about the donations is that they are 100% TAX-DEDUCTIBLE.
Click <b><a href="http://www.active.com/donations/fundraise_public.cfm?key=tntnycTRezvan"target=_blank>here</a></b> if you would like to donate using your credit or debit card. If you would rather donate by check, please email me and I will give you my mailing address. Any amount you can give to the cause would be appreciated and will help my brother reach his goal. Please email me if you have any questions.
Thank you.
Posted by Cate at 01:13 AM | Comments (0)
August 11, 2004
Here.. and gone again
The girls had a great time at the playdate. We stayed until 30 minutes before my 6pm chiro appointment! I hauled ass over to Dr. K and got right in for my very much needed adjustment. Oh my GAWD - I felt so much better after the adjustment. And this morning, no back pain at all. None.
Oh, after the chiro appointment, we hauled back home. Now it was 7pm and the girls hadn't even eaten dinner. I whipped up some quick favorites for them while P conked out on the couch. Poor guy. I let him sleep while we three ate our late dinner. I gave both girls their baths, their nightly meds and then we kicked back in my room to watch SpongeBob SquarePants. The girls went to bed by 9pm. P woke up around 815pm. After the girls went to bed, we sat together and chatted while I finished M's ponco. It's SO cute. I'll post pics later. We headed to bed at 11pm. Early by my standards!
So, here I am at 815am. Urgh. I am going to my Mom's house to clean for her. Hey, I'm getting paid! Woohoo! Then, we are going to buy the girls their school shoes and sneakers. Happy joy!
Catch you guys later. Now make sure you be-HAVE (in my best cheesey Austin Powers voice) and don't have too much fun without me!
Posted by Cate at 08:13 AM | Comments (2)
July 31, 2004
Family
My niece and nephew just left. We had such a nice time with them. We all went in the pool - except P who was napping - and the kids had SO much fun. My nephew is adorable - all chunky legs and cheeks. He is one solid 2 year old. My niece is very dainty and just so precious (and knows it!) for 3 1/2. They all wrecked O's room. Toys are everywhere. LOL. At least they had fun.
We got some really awful news about another family member but I can't discuss it here. Just know that it's not pretty and if anyone can spare a prayer, it will certainly be appreciated.
Posted by Cate at 06:07 PM | Comments (2)
July 18, 2004
Fun visit
We had a great time visiting with Dad, M, my stepsis and bil, niece and my brother. I gave <a href="http://www.katespot.com/archives/shawl1.php" onclick="window.open('http://www.katespot.com/archives/shawl1.php','popup','width=528,height=354,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0'); return false">this shawl</a> and a pair of crocheted flip flops to my step mom. I gave my Dad a couple <a href="http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/B0000WN0PA/qid=1090199632/sr=1-2/ref=sr_1_2/102-1894573-4109765?v=glance&s=dvd"target=_blank>Abbott</a> and <a href="http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/B0001FGBZM/qid=1090199632/sr=1-1/ref=sr_1_1/102-1894573-4109765?v=glance&s=dvd"target=_blank>Costello</a> dvds and an awesome book "<a href="http://images.amazon.com/images/P/0967007666.01.LZZZZZZZ.jpg"target=_blank>Gardens of Persia</a>". I also made a pair of the flip flops for my stepsis and niece. They all loved the flipflops and my stepmom really loved the shawl.
We spent the afternoon there and got back home around 8pm. We just got the girls in bed a few minutes ago. P is relaxing and watching "<a href="http://www.usanetwork.com/series/the4400/flash.htm"target=_blank>The 4400</a>" on USA. Whoa - talk about a creepy show. I think I am hooked..
So tell me - what's going on with your lives?
Posted by Cate at 09:46 PM | Comments (4)
Goin' out!
We are off to visit my dad and step mom. Catch ya later!
Posted by Cate at 01:00 PM | Comments (0)
July 11, 2004
Sleeping late
All four of us slept until 10am. Me, P, my 8 and 4 year olds.
<b>10 AM</b>
How weird is that?
M has a birthday party to attend at 330pm. Mini golf and ice cream. So, my the time she gets home, she is really going to want to eat dinner - NOT! I didn't pick up a gift for the birthday boy so we need to head to WalMart or KMart and get something. Oy.
Posted by Cate at 11:46 AM | Comments (3)
July 08, 2004
Today, while Mom and I
Today, while Mom and I were sitting out on the deck, she looks over at me and says "Oh my God. I just noticed you have so many gray hairs!"
Umm.. thanks Mom. Thanks bunches.
Posted by Cate at 09:23 PM | Comments (5)
Happy Birthday
to my beautiful daughter. I can't believe you are 8 years old today. I am so incredibly proud of you and I love you so very very much.
Posted by Cate at 09:47 AM | Comments (6)
July 05, 2004
Late Start
I had hoped to be on the road by now - HAHAHAHHAHHAHAHAAHA!
Ok - that was pretty funny... Hopefully, we will be leaving within an hour, stopping at the supermarket and gas station THEN driving to Cape May. I will be back on Wednesday so posting will be very light unless I use AudBlog. Of course, I didn't even think to ask for guest bloggers ::smacking self in head:: So, if anyone wants to guest blog and gets back to me in 30 minutes, I will try to set you up asap!
All you kids play nice while I'm gone! I'll miss you! ::smooches::
Posted by Cate at 09:33 AM | Comments (6)
July 04, 2004
PACKING!
I have been doing laundry and packing all day. You would think we will be gone for weeks and not just 3 days/2 nights. But, this is the reality of traveling with a food allergic child. I am bringing everything that I know she can eat. We won't be eating at the loca restaurants, just grilling and cooking at my SIL's beach house. I don't care. I just want her to be safe so we all can relax and have a wonderful time.
We had a ton of fun yesterday. The fireworks display was awesome - one of the best displays I have seen locally. Shhhh - don't tell anyone that P has a few sparklers and things to shoot off tonight.
I hope you all had a wonderful - and safe! - Fourth of July!
Posted by Cate at 08:20 PM | Comments (2)
July 03, 2004
Visiting
We will be visiting my inlaws today. I am making cookies to bring over for dessert. After dinner, all of us, including my inlaws, will be going to a local town's fair event. There will be fireworks too.
Wish us luck!
Posted by Cate at 11:56 AM | Comments (2)
June 12, 2004
Wonderful day
Everything was wonderful today. Good food... great company...
I want to thank <a href="http://www.therapyfailed.com">Kristin</a> and <a href="http://www.gigglechick.com/erin/blog/">Erin</a> for their most thoughtful gifts. Thank you so very very much.
{{{hugs}}}
Posted by Cate at 09:37 PM | Comments (1)
June 11, 2004
Terrible news
Just got a phone call from my stepmom about my Dad.
The cancer has gotten worse.
It had spread to his liver and he was on some serious chemo to blast the tumors away. It didn't do anything. Now there are even more tumors on his liver. He is due for a treatment of Erbitux (the Martha Stewart drug - heh) on Wednesday. He has to have it at the hospital due the possibility of some type of reaction.
Why? Why the hell is this happening? My poor Dad... I don't even want to think about what might happen if things get worse...
God - I need a drink.
Posted by Cate at 02:48 PM | Comments (16)
June 03, 2004
Got a call
last night from Dad. He had come home. The doctors took blood in order to test him and see what was wromg. He will be seeing his oncologist today and getting more information at that time.
Thank you for all the well wishes and prayers for my Dad. {{{hugs}}}
Posted by Cate at 08:09 AM | Comments (5)
June 02, 2004
Not fair
I just got a call from my stepmom - dad is in the ER. He's running a low grade