Update...

Since I haven't posted in nearly a month, I figured I would give the condensed version of the last month!

Thanksgiving---I roasted one turkey, Ryan fried the other with cajun seasoning! While it was delicious, I will never roast another turkey! Ryan's fried turkey was SO good and we had so many of the sides left over, I bought another turkey and we fried it 3 days later and had Bob Bob and Grammy down for Turkey Day II! And again, I have never had something SO yummy!

Facebook---it's a social networking website that I got on, similar to myspace. Since joining, I have found 46 friends from various times in my life. Most surprisingly was finding 14 classmates (out of about 30) from my Valle Crucis (NC) school. They are people I went to 3rd-7th grades with...and it's funny that we all actually grew up!!!! So, now I have more people to visit in NC when I go up there! I'm very excited! It's been fun catching up with people that I haven't seen in 20 years.

Cassidy---she got her cast off of her "little broken arm" and you'd never know that it was ever an issue. She has not been able to go swimming unfortunately though because the weather ended up getting a little cooler and the pool heater couldn't keep up with the temp swings!!!!

Pregnancy---We are at 18 weeks and everything is going well. Ryan and I are going for an ultrasound on Friday to check progress but NOT to find out if we are adding daughter #6 or son #1 to the clan! I am done getting shots, but am still taking medication to ensure a healthy pregnancy. So far, so good!

Christmas---is coming up. More details later!

A little R&R...

Well, it's Tuesday.  The girls (minus Katie) and I came to Jupiter (the city, not the planet) to visit my Aunt Joie.  We are enjoying the time down here bunches.  At the moment, Erin and Jo are off getting a pedicure while the rest of the girls and I are back at the house napping (well, I'm not napping, I'm typing, but still).  Yesterday, the we went to Wannado City in Ft. Lauderdale.  It's a really cool place where kids can try on different careers and be whatever they wanna be!  It was not particularly well managed yesterday, but there wasn't a whole lot of people either, so that was a trade that was acceptable.  

Cassidy got her cast off last week, so she's been swimming ever since.  I know she'd eat, sleep and live in the pool if I'd let her, but I'm mean that way!  It's warmer down here than it is in Kissimmee and the pools here are heated a little more than ours is, so she's been having a blast.

We are looking forward to a small Thanksgiving with way too much food.  It'll just be the 6 of us (no Katie) and my Uncle Dave and brother Mike.  And for that I have 24 pounds of turkey.  Leftovers, anyone????

Katie is in Montana with Bob Bob and Grammy visting the Montana Birks clan.  I haven't heard from her, so she is either frozen or having too much fun with Bailey to think about her mom.  That's ok, I hope she has a good time.  They will be back on Friday.

So, if I don't post between now and Turkey Day, I wish everyone a blessed and thankful holiday!  Blik, blik!

Laurel

This and That...

Well, we've had a cool couple of weeks. Here's a summary:

Ryan and I got to see "Sprite", the new little BK who is on the way. The kids nicknamed the baby Sprite after us telling them that he or she is as big as a lime...Lime didn't sound like a good nickname, but apparently Sprite did, so there we have it...the official nickname for the belly bump! Anyway, Sprite has all the necessary parts and a nice strong little heartbeat. I think I irritated the tech doing the ultrasound though. I was pointing out all the little parts and she finally (with attitude) said, "Do you want to do this?" She also didn't give us any pictures, which has never happened before. I think she wanted some control. Oh well! I also got to hear a great little heartbeat at my last doctor visit...nice and strong at about 145 bpm.

This past Friday (Nov 14) we all loaded up in the van and went out to Cape Canaveral to watch the Space Shuttle Endeavour launch. It was at 7:55 pm, so it was dark and was totally incredible. We are trying to go see as many shuttle launches as we can since they are retiring the shuttle in another 2 years. I remember being 6 years old and living in Sanford, Florida when Columbia went up for the first time. It was early in the morning and we went outside to see it. It was one of those things that you just never forget. It's something I don't want the kids to take for granted. I want them to remember sitting on the beach and seeing the night sky turn bright as day and hearing the rumble as one of mankind's most remarkable creations shoot toward the stars. Who knows, it could be one of Cassidy's earliest memories! "Go Rocket, Go!"

Cassidy will be getting her cast off on Thursday. If she's asked about it, she says, "I can't wait to get my cast off!" She wants to go swimming. It's been pretty cold here and the pool is a chilly 74 degrees at the moment...she might not be nearly as thrilled when she plunges in! She's done so well. How adaptable little ones are!!!!

Ali has officially broken the 5 foot tall mark! We did our semi-annual measuring last night and she's 60 3/8" tall. What's frightening (aside from the fact that she's going to be taller than me in another 2 years), is that Katie and Erin are both 4" taller than Ali was at their ages!!!!! YIKES! So that means that they'll be 5 feet by when?????

Last night we watched the NASCAR race that put my boy, Jimmie Johnson among the best of the best (not that he wasn't in my book already, <>). While he finished the race safe and in 15th place, he won his third consecutive championship title. Go 48!

We are gearing up for a busy Thanksgiving week. The girls have the whole week off from school. Katie will be accompanying my mom and dad to Great Falls, Montana to see my brother, Jeff's family. She's exceedingly excited to see her cousin, Bailey. Bailey is 7 months younger than Katie and they are great pals. It's the first time that they will have seen each other since they moved in June. As for the rest of the GIRLS, we are heading to Jupiter (the city, not the planet), to visit my aunt and uncle for a few days. Ryan will be staying home working and doing homework. We'll be back on Wednesday and will enjoy Thanksgiving Day with my brother Mike, my Uncle Dave and our neighbors. We are still frying a turkey, even though Jeff isn't around...but I bet it won't be nearly as much fun.

If I don't get around to blogging before Turkey Day, I would like to wish everyone a safe and wonderful holiday. Gobble, Gobble, Blick, Blick!

A new era...

Wow. That's about all I can say about the ripple felt across this great country of ours last night. While not the outcome I would have preferred, I am overwhelmed with pride for the citizens of our country that took their right and privilege seriously, got out and voted. Here in Florida, the race was close all night. Obama ran a larger than life campaign here, spending more money than has ever been spent, running so many ads I got tired of listening to the radio! And in the end, the people's voice was heard. I have to say that I've never been so proud of a candidate as when I listened to John McCain concede the election. This is truly an American hero. Senator McCain's service to our nation is exemplary and we are all in his debt.

So, congratulations to our new President Elect. Congratulations to John McCain. But most of all congratulations to all of the Americans who got out, got involved and voted in this historic election. That's what democracy is all about!

Election Day 2008-Get out & Vote!!!!

Happy November!

It's hard to believe that we are nearly done with 2008! Time flies when you're having fun!

We had a good Halloween...safe, that's the most important thing. Erin and Cassidy were the only ones who went trick or treating. Erin, the "teen" candy corn and Cassidy went as Wonder Woman! They had a good time. We had Goblin Gizzard Stew atop steamed maggots (chili and rice) for dinner....mmmmm, yum! Lily was dressed up as a monkey during the morning, but would have none of it when it came time to dress for the evening festivities...I'm still trying to get a picture.

Thank you all for your congratulations on the upcoming family addition! The reaction of the older girls was mixed...mostly they think we're nuts to want so many kids. Thanks for all your support...now the answers to the top 3 questions:

3. Were you trying for a boy? Well, let me just point out the obvious...it's not really up to us and it is what it is. As my sister in law would say, "You get what you get and you don't fuss a bit". You might find it hard to believe that we really don't have a preference.

2. What kind of car are you going to need to transport the family? Last year, I purchased an 8 pax Toyota Sienna minivan. That'll do! I have no interest in a mini-bus.

1. Are you crazy? Maybe so...but who better to raise 6 kids than a mom who's slightly off her rocker!!! I have 5 of the most incredible daughters in the world. Who wouldn't want more?!?!

So, thanks to you all!
The Crazy Mom of Girls in the 8 pax minivan.

BOO to you!!!!

For my birthday today, I got the greatest present!

Come May 2009, we are going to have to change our name from The BK7 to The BK8!!!! That's right, we are expecting a new baby!!! We are all excited to welcome a new member to the family. We look forward to the coming months and look ahead to May with great anticipation!

My birthday present wasn't the actual knowledge that we are expecting again, it was finding out that I no longer have to have twice weekly shots in the hips to keep this pregnancy going! All is well, we've had an ultrasound and we saw a healthy, active, dancing baby and heartbeat last Friday.

So, stay tuned for updates on the newest member of our "Six Pack"!!!!

Deja Vu...all over again...

We got Cassidy's arm re-xrayed last week. It was either a better picture, bigger or the fracture had worsened. I dropped it at the doctor's office and no sooner was I home that they were calling to tell me to bring her in for a cast, it indeed was broken.

So, Cassidy now has her left arm in a real cast. She's not so happy about it because it really does crimp her style a bit. She loves to swim so much and she can't and that's so upsetting to her. She even tried to take it off so she could swim. She's getting used to it and pretty much doesn't let it slow her down. We did have to change her Halloween costume though. Her original one had long sleeves, and I had to get one with no sleeves so her cast would work with it. Still in the same family of costumes though! You'll have to wait to see pictures!

Update on Cassidy...

Cassidy is doing well with her arm. Our family practitioner deemed the fracture not serious enough to warrant a cast, or even the splint. I'm still in disagreement a little about that. While the fractures are very small, I'm worried about what might happen if she fell at school. She's still being very cautious with her arm, so I'm thinking of seeking a 3rd opinion. I sent her to school this morning in the splint but let her take it off long enough to swim for a little while this afternoon. The contractor who redid our house left her a book on the doorstop today, that perked her up!

She's still a trooper, brave and strong. She's being a great sport about her limitations. She's a little sad that she can't do everything she wants to do. Just another day in the life!

The First BK Broken Bone belongs to....

Cassidy!!!

So, I wish it was a great tale about how Cassidy was climbing a tree, skateboarding or reeling in a shark...but really, she's 3...it was a chair...and gravity. She was climbing up an inverted chair that was seat to seat with a right side up chair. She got to a point where the center of gravity was off and she pitched backward, onto our newly tiled floor with the chair on top of her (had we recarpeted, we probably wouldn't have had a story to tell). This all happened around 11 this morning. I thought it might be broken, but decided to wait a little in case it was just bruised. Around 1, I gave her some Motrin and took another look at her arm. She was still cradling it and was uncomfortable, there was a little swelling, she couldn't straighten it and she wasn't putting any weight on it. With all that, I decided to run her up to "After Hours Pediatrics" 20 minutes away. They had her in and out in just about an hour!!!! I was super impressed! What a great place! The doctor had the same impression I did...she wasn't super tender, no obvious swelling, but they did a couple x-rays and sure enough on both of the lower bones of her arm, right near her elbow are little fractures. Not all the way through, just enough to be broken. So, they put a splint on and a "swing" and told us to check in with a pediatric orthopedist who would likely put a cast on it. We'll post pictures if that happens.

Cassidy was brave at the doctor, in fact, she was brave all day! We are proud of what a great job she did telling us where she was hurt.

So that's the excitement in the BK household for this weekend! At least it waited for Sunday!!!!

The irony in all this: Last week, while watching Cassidy fall off the slide we have set up in the living room, mostly for Lily the climbing monkey, I made some comment about it wasn't going to be Lily who breaks her arm first...it'll be Cassidy. Hmmm, I should keep my mouth shut!!!

The good in all this: she is going to have to give up sucking her finger! Heck of a way to break a habit though!

It's Like a Whole New House!!!!!!

Home, Sweet Home!

We are 99% done with the house renovation and we are moved back in!!!! It is like a totally new house! I love it! We redid the floors throughout the house (not the bedrooms), gutted the kitchen and both bathrooms. There are still a few things we need to complete: door knobs, minor paint touch ups and some unpacking.

Enjoy the slide show!!!

Happy Birthday to....

Alison, Katie and Ryan!

A milestone birthday for the Al! 13! I can't believe I have a teenager! Since her birthday was on Saturday and she was going to be at her dad's that weekend, we celebrated a little early...make that really early! On Friday morning (19th), I made a 6 a.m. run to Krispy Kreme for some hot donuts. I think Cassidy was the most excited of all...I'm not sure how often she's had donuts, but I can't recall another time. She flew out of bed and was practically dragging her sisters to the table. We gave Ali her gifts and cards that had come in during breakfast and headed off to school. I called the local radio station to have her birthday announced and she was thrilled to still be in the car to hear it. On Saturday, we had dinner all together at a little Asian restaurant that Ali picked. It's quite a sight to see Ali with her 7 siblings all together. The kids all get along very well, so that was a nice way to spend her birthday dinner.

Katie wanted the same donut treatment on her big day (23rd). Ryan and I headed to KK in the pre-dawn hours and got the goods. Since we'd done the same for Ali, we let Kate open her gifts with breakfast. We were a little more rushed since Ryan had to work on Tuesday, but we got it all in before he headed to work. We have tumbling on Tuesday nights, so we are usually in a dinner hurry, either catching fast food on the way there (yuck) or eating at home in a rushed super fast family dinner. Katie decided on Tijuana Flats, as close to Tex-Mex as we get here, but really quite acceptable. It's a cross between fast food and sit down. Since Ryan doesn't get off work until 6, I had all the food ordered and on the tables (and everyone eating) before he got there, but we at least had dinner together as a family before rushing off to the gym. I had a yummy taco salad...I think I could eat at least one of those every day!!! Delicious!

Ryan's birthday was less exciting...no KK donuts. It was on Saturday and he had to go to school for a class. So, the girls were very excited but had no outlet for the enthusiasm. So, I convinced them that Dad would love the house cleaned as a birthday surprise and I was startled that they bought into that and cleaned their rooms, the bathroom and the other areas of the house. The house looked nice when he returned. I don't know if he noticed, but it was. We headed to Texas Roadhouse for dinner. We had delicious perfectly cooked steaks (some of our kids with less taste buds had mac n cheese, what are they thinking???). Cassidy and I had picked up a cake for desert at Publix earlier in the day, so we had that back at the house before the kids went to bed.

All in all it was a less than usually crazy week of birthdays. I'm sure that had something to do with not being in our own home. But I must admit...it was nice!

So Happy Birthday to 3/7ths of my family! I love you all very much.

Catching up...

Well, once again, there have been a million things happening, and I haven't posted a one of them!

First, the girls are settling in to school very well. They all like their teachers and are making good grades. We are still working out getting to and from school in a way that is out of the ordinary. Cassidy goes to school Mon, Wed and Fri. Ryan takes her early on Monday and Wednesday so he can get to work on time (he's working four 10 hour days...M-Th 7a-6p). On Friday he takes her as well, but doesn't have to leave as early. I have to get the other girls to school by 8:45. That's a little challenge, but it's working out. Once we get back into our house, Ali can return to taking the bus.

Second, the remodeling of our house is nearly complete. If I can figure out how to do a slide show, I'll put before and after shots up. It's really looking good. The kitchen is in, the tile floors are in, the bathrooms are tiled with cabinets, countertops and sinks! We are hoping it's a productive week and we can be back at home in the next few weeks!

Third, Lily update! She's a full fledged monkey! She climbs on anything and everything. We joke that if we could install a rock wall in our house, she'd be able to climb it! We got her a belated birthday present...a play structure with 3 ways to climb up into it and a slide to get down! We'll put it in the playroom (formerly the back room/computer room/library) on the carpet. Despite her climbing ability, she hasn't really fallen (knock on wood). Ryan and I were at Lowe's on Friday with her and she was swinging on the bar of the flatbed. It is amazing how strong she is. Maybe she's our future gymnast.

I guess that's about all for now.

The First Day of School...sort of...

So, this first day of school seems to have a sense of deja vu to it...but I'll get to that in a minute.



Cassidy headed off to her first day of preschool this morning. She was awake before I could get her up, she actually had her socks on when I saw her (I was so proud). She only goes to preschool 3 days a week from 8:30-12, but Ryan has to take her to school since I can't be in 3 places at once (2 at once, isn't a problem) dropping all the girls off for school. So, since Ryan has to take her, he has to drop her at before care so he can be at work by 7am. She was excited and peppy and headed off to school with our standard Cassidy enthusiasm. Ryan said she was a little teary at drop-off, but pretty soon her boy Sam joined her for breakfast and she settled down and had a great day!



Erin and Katie headed back to another year at Bellalago Academy. Aside from an hour to drop them off and an hour and a half to pick them up, not much changed. I think we'll avoid the car riders loop except when necessary for rainstorms. Just opened near the school is a Walgreens, Publix and McDonald's. I'm seriously thinking I'll pick them up at Mickey D's every day. As the car loop is RIDICULOUS!!!!! They had good days. Erin is jazzed about being in a different building, being on the second floor and changing classes this year. It's hard to believe she's in fifth grade. Katie has a great teacher who is pretty familiar with her from last year. Ms. Toy (great name for a teacher, huh???) has a classroom that connected to Erin's former 4th grade teacher's classroom, so whenever Erin and Katie would stay after school with Mackenzie, Katie would go visit Ms. Toy. So, she was excited to get her this year.



Alison, only a month away from being 13, headed back to Horizon Middle School for the first day of 7th grade. As far as I can tell, she LOVES her teachers so far. She's yet to live through "gold" day, since today was a "blue" day. She is in Advanced reading, science and math (I don't remember if she's in adv. social studies). She also has sewing and PE for her electives. She's going to try out for cheerleading next week.



So, remember how I said we are sort of having deja vu? School was canceled for tomorrow. Why? Well, we live in Florida...we start school during Hurricane Season. There's not a hurricane out there, but Tropical Storm Fay is making landfall as I type on the south west coast. While it's not a strong nor particularly organized storm, it has the potential for some miserable rain, wind and since we're on the "dirty" side of it, the possibility for tornadoes is out there. Just when we were fixing all the damage of the 2004 hurricane season on our house...nice timing, huh? This is the 3rd year of 4 that we've missed school during the first week due to hurricanes.



So, we'll try again Wednesday or maybe Thursday for our second "Fay" of school.



I'll post pictures later on.



Laurel

Cassidy says the Darndest Things!

Swimming is a way of life around here. Even our temporary digs has a pool...we just can't live without one. Anyway, Cassidy has been watching Michael Phelps blow the competition out of the water (pun completely intended of course) during the Olympics. She's pretty sure she could beat him. She needs practice though.

So, today Ryan was getting the younger two ready for the pool time. Cassidy's swimsuit, which is like a short wet suit, was drying outside from yesterday's swim. Ryan's exchange went with her went something like this:

Ryan: "Cassidy, where's your seal suit?"
Cassidy: "It's out by the pool...hello?!?" (like, you moron, where else would it be, du-uh!)

Then the next one happened as Ryan told Cassidy to use the potty before swimming, she's sitting on the potty when this exchange occurs:
"Dad, I need your help turn my seal suit backwards." (it was inside out)
Ryan apparently did not act fast enough for Cassidy so she adds just for clarity, "...today!"

Out of the mouths of water babies!

A long time, but a short summer!

I kept meaning to update the blog on our second trip up to NC, but it just didn't happen the way I planned. We were BUSY! After our friends Patty and Lucy headed back to Florida, we had a whirlwind of activity. Ryan came up, followed the next day by our best friends Christine, Jorge, Shelly and their kids Sofia, Sam and Ashley. With Alison off in Texas, the friend/BK girl ratio was perfect. Everyone had their best friend! That weekend, the mommas and the 8+ daughters headed off to girl scout camp at Camp Ginger Cascades for a mother/daughter weekend. It was 70's themed and it was a blast. We all camped in the BK Family tent and in a delightful grassy field far far away from the noise of all the other campers. We met another mom and daughter there. Christine and I proceeded to initiate them fully into our group by playing canoe tag with them, ending with them in the lake! It was great fun.

When M/D camp was over, we headed briefly to Asheville to meet up with Shelly's mom, then it was back to camp...for the girls! Ashley and Erin did a session called Slumber Daze...they were able to bring their best cuddle buddies (Florida and Teddy) along for all the fun. Sofia and Katie did Hide and Seek which was a geocaching adventure. They used GPS and compasses to find treasures! The moms went back up to rejoin/relieve the dads who'd been watching the jr. crew up on Beech Mountain.

Ryan left on Monday to go back to work. The rest of us did the touristy things...we went to Tweetsie, Fred's, Sliding Rock, little hikes, we picked blueberries (yum) and just enjoyed hanging around. Shelly had to go back to work on Thursday. On Friday, Christine and Jorge took Sofia, Sam and Ashley white water rafting. Karma got back at Christine from the camp canoe flip when Sofia ended up in the river and Christine in right after her. Their pictures were fabulous and the all looked like they had a soaking good time!!! The Garcias left on Saturday and honestly, the silence was deafening. Peaceful for the first hour (naptime) then lonely.

We spent another week up there, Erin, Kate and Cassidy went to Day Camp 3 days and on the other days, we stocked up on some school supplies and uniforms. NC had a tax free period, but FL did away with theirs, so we shopped up there and saved a little money. We headed home on Friday afternoon, stopping in Savannah overnight and reaching Kissimmee at about 2pm on Saturday.

Now for the other half of our adventure...our house is being remodeled...note: it's not done being remodeled! So, we found a house in Kissimmee to rent for a month until the house is back together. They are making awesome progress...we have walls, and a texture on them at this point, painting is happening in the next few days! All of the delays have been ours...I can't blame an inept contractor...H&L Builders have been fantastic and quick! To check out pictures you can go to http://gallery.me.com/birkskilman We're posting more pictures very soon.

The girls start school on Monday. They are all ready for summer to be over. It's hard to believe that I have a 7th, 5th, 4th and a preschooler this year. Stay tuned for pictures of the First Day of School!!!!

Oh, all this and Lily's walking!!!!!

Sorry for the long post, but we had 3 weeks to cover! I hope everyone is doing well and has a safe back to school!!!

A Fun Filled Day...if you don't count the sleepy kids...

Saturday in the Park...sounds like a song...ANYWAY...

Today was a very full, but fun day!

Patty, Erin, Lucy, Cassidy, Patty's mom Pat and I went to a craft fair this morning. Well, craft fair may be a little understated...it was more a fine art and handcrafted jewelry show. It wasn't particularly kid friendly and though the booths were full of beautiful items, it wasn't the whimsical stuff that draws us to things called "craft fairs". As Erin observed, "$145 for a purse? I could knit that myself!" And she could.

After lunch, My mom, Pat, Patty, Erin, Katie and I headed to see a local production of "Little Shop of Horrors". It was very cute and well done. The girls recognized some of the actors from "A Chorus Line" which we saw a couple of weeks ago.

All the while, the younger set (Cassidy, Lucy and Lily) stayed with Bob-Bob and Pop-Pop (Patty's Dad). They had a good time...the babies mostly slept!

My mother had declared Saturday night a "Grown-ups" night, so Patty and I had to find something to do to entertain ourselves. Well, we showed them! Pizza and beer, ice cream and a park (ok, so we skipped the beer and opted for coke instead)! We took the girls to our favorite pizza place up here, The Mellow Mushroom, then to Kilwin's for some yummy dessert, then to the park for 2+ hours of play time...it was well after 9pm when we were done there and heading home.

The girls are all being wonderful, for the most part cooperating and being good. Cassidy and Lucy have their little spats...mostly over shoes. They both understand the other's passion for shoes and takes it to a very personal level. It's quite amusing and they really only get mad at each other then they are tired.

We're heading to Tweetsie Railroad tomorrow. Cassidy can't wait to wear her cowboy hat and to get her gun and vest and be a real cowboy! I'm getting a sense of what she's going to be for Halloween!

Back in the Mountains!!!

Wow, it's been a while since my last blog...we were still in the mountains then...and guess what? We're back!

We drove home to Florida on July 5th and 6th. After a 10 days of orthodontist appointments (3) and remodeling packing days (3) and catching up with friends, we headed back to NC today!

Erin, Katie, Cassidy, Lily and I took off at 6am. Stopped in Sanford at 7 to pick up our friends Patty and Lucy and were on top of Beech Mountain 13 hours later. Not bad, considering we made 7 stops totaling between 3 and 4 hours...and we had 5 little girls with us.

We stopped in SC at a little nature walk and had lunch...the picture above is of all the girls at that stop! See how happy they look???? They were all fantastic.

I'm sure I'll post more, now that I'm back in my mountain home! Not so much going on, life has slowed back down and I'm going to sincerely enjoy the next 3 weeks!!!

SHE DID IT!

I have to mark the day, July 2, 2008. Lily took her first very deliberate, steady, hands-free steps! This kid continues to amaze me. I think she must have been sneaking off to the gym when I'm not looking. She hasn't been standing by herself. She cruises around the furniture. But she's just not been looking too steady. But tonight she just let go, was steady and took 3 very deliberate, little steps until she got close to me, then she stopped and stood still for a moment before sinking down to the floor.

It was AWESOME! I'm a proud momma! Can you tell?

Yeah, Lily!!!

It's July!

Happy July everybody!

We are still happily up in the mountains. Cassidy has attended a 1/2 day Day Camp last Friday and yesterday. She's having fun making new friends and playing with other people! Lily is fast becoming Little Miss Independent. She's still not quite walking, but she's getting more stable and fast by the day. We have found a new food that she can't live without! BLUEBERRIES! They are perfect size for her and she devours them before strawberries even!

The girls are finishing up their second session at Camp Ginger Cascades. Erin and Ali were at Babysitters Club, Katie was in Creatures of the Night. I haven't had any letters from camp this go-round, but they have only been there for 48 hours, so there's been no time for communications.

Tomorrow is our last day up here with Ali. At her request, we'll probably head up to Grandfather Mountain and go to the animal habitat they have. She is heading back to Florida on Thursday. I'll pick Ryan up at the same time and we'll stay up here for the Holiday weekend. We're all heading home on Sunday the 6th for a quick and busy 10 days before we come back up for another 3 weeks.

***A huge congratulations to our friends Emily, Brian and Joseph Koziol on the birth of their new baby, Jacob on June 30! Happy Birthday, Jake! We can't wait to meet you!***

Cheap Entertainment...

Watching the laundry is better than Blue's Clues!

Apparently, Lily wants to get in on the action as well! Who would have thought that doing laundry would be the highlight of ANYONE'S day...yet, it is!

Look who's talking!

So, I have obviously started noticing that my youngest child is fast outgrowing the infant stage and is headed toward full blown toddlerhood. She's only teetering on the edge of 14 months, but she's got this amazing hold on what it'll mean to be two already.

First of all, she's a carnivore. I've not really had an issue with most of the kids in regards to biting, and certainly when it's popped up, I don't think it was this young. It's pretty clear cut when she's doing it as it's usually preceeded by a struggle for what she has in her hand. The tug-o-war ensues and pretty soon Lily is doing her best Hannibal Lecter impression on the offending party's arm, hand or nose, whatever is within reach! Good news: she only has two teeth. Bad news: there are more to come.

Second, she's a daredevil. Again, never really had issues with this before. She can scale the full flight of stairs in the blink of an eye. She can bounce on the couch with the fearlessness of an Olympian. And she can climb up the glass fronted tv stand in the rental house we're staying in. The funny thing is she used tools to do so. She slid a ride on lion toy over, climbed up on it, then standing on the head of the lion, she put a foot on a tv tray that's beside the tv, then holding on to the tv and teetering precariously above the open jaws of the lion, she put her other foot on the tv stand. Walking is clearly overrated.

Third, she's a sponge. The more and more time I spend nearly alone with this little kid, I realize that she's not just babbling, she's talking! She said good morning ("gowoeni") to me when I plucked her out of her bed today! Then she told me she was drinking milk ("gilk") and eating yogurt ("gut"). I asked her if she'd like a pancake, she said pancake ("cak") and nodded her head yes. She already knows many of the family: Ala, Kak (Katie or Cassie, either one), Da, Ma, Rin and BobBob. It's quite the acoustical challenge to understand her!

Watching her this summer should be interesting!

Day 8...in progress...

Cassidy and Mom at the Banner Elk Park

Well, it's SO QUIET here. This morning Cassidy and I cuddled in the big chair. I fixed Cassidy some "pebbles" for breakfast and went to get Little Miss Sunshine up. Lily is just the happiest morning baby! She was just laying in her crib contemplating her toes, content to be awake. I think it's her quiet time before the chaos of her normal life kicks in. I took Lily downstairs and made some breakfast for her. Cassidy got dressed all by herself in her Blue's Clues outfit...her favorite ( I guess after Dora at Tweetsie, Blue is ten times better).

We decided to pick up Grammy and Petri the dog and head to the playground in Banner Elk. There are places on Beech we could go, but nowhere I might get a cell signal and be able to say good morning to my hubby! Banner Elk has a great playground. We spent about an hour and a half playing and having our picnic snack. All without major incident, save the swing accident. I had Lily and Cassidy in a swing together and got Cassidy out. She ran at lightning speed from the swing, directly in the path of another little girl on the next swing! There was nothing that could be done to avoid the hit. Cassidy gets clocked in the side of her head, and somehow does the banana peel slip, feet up and flat on her back. Everyone panics, except me...I'm the calm one! She's hollering, so I know she's breathing, she's rolling over so I know her neck's not broken, the other swing has stopped so I know she's not going to get popped again. I picked her up and cuddled. She was fine...she had two footprints on the side of her head, but she was fine!

We went to the big playground after that and played there...without incident!

Now they are napping!

Day 7...I'm driving them all away!

Well, all good things must come to an end. It's quiet around here. Ryan has had to go back home to work, so he's flying out tonight. On his way to the airport, we dropped Ali, Erin and Katie off at Camp Ginger Cascades. We had a nice, albeit fast, dinner at Outback after dropping the girls. Cassidy and Lily stayed up on the mountain with my parents. I headed back up to Beech, while he headed the rest of the way to the airport.

Currently, he's stuck on the runway with the engines shut down waiting for weather to clear.

Day 6 in the Mountains...Tweetsie Time!

Lily was pointing and making the "h" sound...at a horse! She's so smart!!!

Erin, Cassidy and Ali on Tweetsie

Today is day 6. Ryan goes home tomorrow and the older girls head off to camp for the week, so we decided to have a fun day at our teeny, tiny, amusement park...Tweetsie Railroad.

Tweetsie itself is a beautifully restored and maintained steam locomotive. At the park, the train pulls guests around a 3 mile loop stopping along the way a couple of times for the cowboys to hold the train up and to do battle with the indians. I'm sure we're dealing with severe political incorrectness here, but it's a show!

There are shows: the "World Famous" Tweetsie Can-Can dancers and Tweetsie Cloggers, along with some somewhat hokey kids shows, a magic show and a sing and dance show.

And there are rides: Planes, Trains, and Automobiles...and a chairlift. We decided to let the older girls run loose...provided they stayed together and didn't lose each other. We gave them a watch and they were very good about meeting us back at the appointed hour and location! They just wouldn't have enjoyed hanging out with the parents and the babies...ya know? They rode the "tilt-a-hurl"...I mean whirl and other vomitous rides while Cassidy and Lily stuck to the airplanes, helicopters and carousel.

The highlight of the day was waiting in line for 1 1/2 hours so Cassidy could see Dora the Explorer! I played the martyr mom and waited with Lily and the stroller while everyone else went off on rides. We could text each other, so I told Ryan when to head back down to the line for the show and meet and greet. He came back down and we traded babies. I had Cassidy on my shoulders so she could see, then we snaked through the line. She was excited! She was singing, dancing, clapping her hands. Then it was time to meet and greet! At which point she threw herself on the ground, screamed and wouldn't budge. I'm so happy I took one for the team and waited in line. In the grand scheme of things, I really don't care that she threw a tantrum...I just wish I didn't have to wait in line to see it. We walked past, well sort of a walking/dragging motion and walked right out. Little stinker! Turns out she didn't want to see Diego....just Dora. Good thing she got a tattoo!

Peace and Serenity...

I've been up for an hour. It's quiet, it's beautiful, there's a clear view of the mountains, and it's just so peaceful. What a way to begin the day!

In the Mountains...Day 5

Katie, Erin and Ali UNDER The Blowing Rock

Ali, Katie and Erin looking over The Blowing Rock

We have internet! For the first several days up here, not only did we have no internet, we had no cell coverage. We still don't have cell coverage, but at least we have some method of communicating with the outside world!

Personally, I have enjoyed the lack of contact. It bothers me that our vacations are interrupted by every day life. We're on vacation, why should email be checked from work???? I will update the blog, but probably only every couple of days.

So, we have been spending some good, quality family time since we got here. Enjoying the parks, swimming and going to a couple of touristy places. We have tried to do things that we haven't done before. We went to Mystery Hill and The Blowing Rock. Despite living here for 5 years, and vacationing here for many more, I've never been to either of these places...now I have. Mystery Hill is a fun house of sorts with bunches of optical illusions and somewhat corny exhibits. The girls, of course had a blast. Where else can you see water flow or a ball roll uphill?

Yesterday we went to The Blowing Rock. Blowing Rock is a small town with a bunch of shops and artsy stuff. It's really neat to wander Main Street and go into all of the little galleries and to play at the Town Square park or picnic by the lake behind. It's really a beautiful place to go. But the town was named after THE Blowing Rock. There is a legend of an Indian warrior being blown back up the cliff by the wind to his waiting princess. The kids thought that was pretty cool. I told them that it snows upside down there too! They thought that was cooler. We tried throwing some leaves and berries over the edge to see if they'd fly back up...leaves yes, berries no. The park is at an elevation of more than 4000 feet elevation overlooking the Johns River Gorge. The view is spectacular. Using binonculars, we could see the ski lifts and lift house on Beech Mountain! That was pretty cool. The kids had a good time on the paths and observation tower. There's nothing that make a momma more nervous than a kid leaning over a railing on a deck perched above nothing solid looking...I'm sure the trees must be holding on to something, right????

Our family week is coming to an end. On Sunday, Ryan heads back to Florida. Ali, Erin and Katie all head to Camp Ginger Cascades on Sunday as well. So, it will be Cassidy, Lily and me up here on the mountain by ourselves. But before they all head off, we'll have some more fun, so stay tuned!

~Laurel

The Subtlety of Cats...

So...I think the cats were trying to tell me something this morning.

Their near empty bag of cat food was overturned, torn open, and shredded (I think the words "feed me" were etched in the bag)...in front of the door.

I wonder if they wanted me to get more.

Cassidy, my wonder girl!

I'm pretty sure that all my kids are smart, but Cassidy just continues to amazing me!

She has been on a boat this week with my dad, Ryan, Erin and Katie. She's sad one night and on the phone tells me she wants to go home. I give her every excuse I can, but she's not hearing it. "Fly on a big airplane to get to me, Momma!" (I can't, honey, there are no more flights.) "You can drive on the bridge to get to me!" (I can't honey, it's too far of a drive.) "Well, walk!"(I can't, honey, you are out in the middle of the water!) Exasperated she sighs and says, "You can swim!"

Instead I read her two stories.

Tonight I decided to try a preemptive strike, I called around 5. She was happy and chatted about all that she'd done today and gave me a run down of all her "bloods" (boo boos). Then she says to my mom, "Grammy, I'm all done with my mom now!"

I felt a little sad and lonely...I wish she'd read me the two stories.

...and so, it has come to this...

I spent most of the day over at Jeff's house today. I wish I'd been there just to hang out, but it was anything but that. You see, my brother is moving. He's taking his family to Montana. Montana! That's nearly Canada.



Aside from brief moments in time, a year or so at the most, we've always lived near each other. The furthest apart we've been was Florida and Colorado...which is far...but Montana is farther. When he moved to Colorado, I drove with him. I helped him move into a place, then I left him there. That sucked....alot. But, we were young, we were moving around, I went to my mothership (Disney), he went to his (Keystone Ski Resort). It was what we were supposed to do.



Now, we're grownups (so our birthdays tell us), we have spouses and kids...lots of kids. It's different this time. I'm really proud of him. He's a bad-ass pilot who gets to carry a gun...it's his dream job. But, this time, he bought a house, so it looks like he's serious about this bad-ass pilot superhero gig. I'm not driving him to Montana, but I am helping him pack...which sucks...alot. Not the actual packing, just the ultimate goal...leaving.



So, to my brother, it has come to this: thank you for always being the one I can count on. For bringing flying squirrels into the house, and sharing them. For forging paths through woods unknown on Beech Mountain, they became the roadmaps of our lives. For taking me on ski trips so I could be with my friends for Spring Break. For riding the metro in DC just to see what happened at the end of the line, we came back to where we started. For always being willing to grab some eats at Fat Boys or a Frap at "'buckets". For steep turns in 95D that made me want to puke...and better yet for stopping them! For bringing me McDonalds when Tiglet and Roo were born, fajitas when Rinford was born, and Burger King at midnight when Pumpkin was born, those were some of the most delicious meals ever! For the coolest niece and nephews in the world, and the chance these last 3 weeks to really spend some quality time with them. For bartending my May Parties...the Tiki Bar will always be there for you! For that long walk around the airport last July when things really started to change, we both knew life was never going to be the same again. And for that last flight to Lakeland this morning...a $22.99 cooler, a last sub, and for waving your wings to me as you took off for the next chapter in your life. I think you're gonna like it there, but boy, how we are going to miss you here!

And just in case it wasn't clear before...this sucks.

Another year gone...

...and another summer started!



I have to brag on my kids here (where else should I do it...this is my blog!). As amazed as I am on birthdays of each of my dear daughters' gifts, on days when they all attain a milestone, I am ultimately proud! Alison has, not only survived but thrived, during her first year of middle school. Erin has effectively adopted her 4th grade teacher and brought her into our family (what would we ever do without "Herriel"). Katie soared in third grade. She was given the foundation in 2nd grade, but applied and grew what we all knew was in there somewhere to achieve in the 80th percentile on the FCAT (Florida's standardized tests)! Cassidy also wrapped up her child care days and finishes the year potty trained, knowing her colors, numbers, shapes and speaking so well I don't have to translate (though most of the time I do out of habit). Lily...well, she graduated from ISR lessons a few weeks back and has completely intentionally splashed into the water just so that she can float on her back!



I have amazing children, I know. You all can say it! This year has seen tremendous growth within our family. I can look back at pictures from our fun filled year and see what little girls I had 9 months ago. They were just kids and babies! Now I have young ladies (who burp, fart and laugh about both), a little girl and a toddler! It's said that time flies when you're having fun. Oh, how I wish it didn't.

The Best Ringtone EVER!

Ok, so I know this sounds like a strange blog entry, but I have the best ringtone on my phone! It's got all the elements of a great ringtone...its catchy, its tone is varied so you can hear it, its one of those that you hate to answer the call because it'll end! I have long searched for the perfect ringtone. I have found it, right in my own house! Can't guess what it is??? A baby's belly laugh! And not just any baby, MY baby!

We were playing with Lily a few weeks ago and she just had the greatest laugh! I told Ryan then I would give anything to have that sound when my iPhone rings. So, last night, I was playing peek-a-boo with her and she started laughing hysterically. Ryan jumped at the chance, recorded the laugh on his iPhone and converted it for mine!

I must say the first time I heard it in the car, I turned to look at Lily in the car seat. she heard it too and broke out into the cutest, biggest grin. I really hate to answer the phone, so if you call me and you go to voice mail, just know that I was probably not ignoring you, I was basking in the hypnotizing effect of my daughter's belly laugh!

Thanks honey, for making the best ringtone a mommy could ever have!

Our Crazy Weekend of Craziness...

Bye - Bye Discovery!

Lily's LOVING the ocean!!!
Two of the best friends a girl could have - Shelly and Christine!

Boy, what a weekend. On Saturday, Erin headed off with Shelly, Ashley and the rest of her girl scout troop to spend the weekend at Cypress Gardens! Along with our friends, Jorge, Christine, Sofia and Sam, the rest of us headed off to Cocoa Beach to catch the shuttle launch that afternoon. We arrived and staked out our spot on the crowded beach mere moments before Discovery blasted skyward! We all watched with our usual enthusiasm and awe as our brave astronauts headed to the space station to fix the toilet! Cassidy waved goodbye to the "rocketship". Within about 15 minutes, the beach was nearly deserted, so we enjoyed a few hours on the beach, having dinner, playing in the surf and relaxing with our friends! Lily LOVED the ocean. She really thought the waves were something else. She was laughing like a lunatic when we were in water. I have a total naked cherub picture of her too...pretty modest, but with the way the sun was shining she truly looks like the gift from heaven that she is!!!!

On Sunday, I woke up with a rotten stomach virus. Ryan, Katie and Cassidy headed off to join the girl scouts at Cypress Gardens while I stayed home with Lily and slept most of the day. The troops held a Bridging Ceremony in one of the gardens. Seven of our ten Brownies bridged to the next level and became Juniors, Katie included. Alison became a Cadette (though she was at the beach with her dad and family and couldn't attend). They had a great time around the park and enjoyed the day. I was very disappointed that I couldn't attend, but my many stand in mom friends took good care of my family...see the picture of Shelly and Christine...are those two of the best friends a girl could have or what?!?!?!

And so, we are 2 days away from the end of school and the beginning of a chaotic summer!

***BRING IT ON!!!!***

Summer is like a freight train...

...you feel it coming and you just can't stop it!

Wasn't I just posting pictures of my cuties on their first days of school? I am reeling at the thought that another year has flown by and now it's time for summer...again! The girls have had their camp physicals and are ready for 10 days at Camp Ginger Cascades in North Carolina. Before camp, however, Ryan's taking the middle three...I see you all thinking, "now which are the middle three?"...that would be Erin, Katie and Cassidy up to Virginia to hang out with my dad on their sailboat. Ali will be heading to NY to see some friends. I'll be hanging with my Lily here in Florida until June 15th, then Ali, Lily and I will join the waterlogged boat people in NC for a week of family vaction before camp!!!

I am looking forward to getting the heck out of Florida for the summer. Ya'll come visit, ya hear?

IPods do not like water...

Just in case you were curious, iPods don't like water...and if that left any question, they aren't too fond of washing machines either...even if the iPod is named Bubbles.

Bummer.

Fun, Food, and Flies?

So...

Ryan and I celebrated our 11th anniversary yesterday. I managed to pawn kids off on 3 different families (thank you very much Hartwigs, Honeycutts, and Garcias) and Ryan and I had the better part of 24 hours without kiddos! We didn't speak for a while, I think we were enjoying the silence!

Thanks to our friend, Tom Hartwig (thank you Tommy!), who works at Animal Kingdom, we spent a few hours there. He met us at the front gate and got us into the park (NO CHARGE!!!! YEAH!) Then he took us over to the park's coolest ride: Expedition Everest and got us on the ride skipping the line! It's a great ride...front facing, backwards, in the dark...very neat! We rode it again for good measure, then we decided to go see the Finding Nemo musical show, after which we left the park.

We ate dinner at Charley's Steakhouse. Now, Charley's is a somewhat overrated dining experience IMHO. It was the 3rd time I have eaten at this restaurant. The first was nice, the second was disasterous, and the third (and probably last) I'd have to classify as comical. We had an overexuberant server from Barcelona. When he realized we weren't tourists, I think he started courting us to be regulars...see above...not gonna happen. I was eating my salad when I noticed a fly. No big deal, flies happen. Only when I tried to shoo this one off, he couldn't fly. He was a non-flying fly, a young fly...and pretty soon, he was an on-his-back, dead, non-flying fly. Bummer...I wonder what killed him...it wasn't me...was it my salad? We called "Uncle Lou" over and he whisked the salad away and before I could turn my head, a manager was at my side apologizing. And offering me another salad...uh no? I ordered the beefsteak tomatoes...served with onions and bleu cheese. The tomatoes were great, I left the other stuff. "Uncle Lou" asked if I didn't like his cheese...Ryan told him it was a little moldy. I thought it was funny...Uncle Lou, not so much. I've never had a speedier meal at Charley's.

Anyway, a super big thanks to Christine and Jorge, who took on Katie, Cassidy and Lily for the night, to Shelly and Tom Hartwig for taking Erin and getting us into Disney, and to Wendy and Barry Honeycutt, who had Ali over for the night!!! You guys are the best friends a couple with 5 kids could ever have!!!! Thanks for helping us out!

And to Ryan, my best friend, and the greatest husband a girl could ever want! Thanks to you for 11 wonderful years and for giving me the best daughters a mom could ever ask for! I knew from the moment I spotted you that you were a great guy. Those classroom massages certainly helped your reputation! I'm just glad that you came back into my life when you did and we became the family that I adore! You are truly the best! I love you with all my heart! Wanna play me?

Congratulations, Jamie and Eric!

We are so excited to share the news of the birth of our newest niece to Ryan's sister Jamie and her husband Eric! Abigail Grace was born on Friday, May 23rd at 8pm. She weighed in at 6 lbs. 11.4 oz. and was 18.5 inches long. Mom and baby are doing great! We are happy to have another cousin in the mix!!! Welcome to the world, Abby!

Happy 10th Birthday, Erin Alexandra!

This is what a 10 year old looks like!

Wow, a decade! How fantastic is that? Ryan and I welcomed Erin into our lives 2 days shy of our first anniversary. We were a little anxious about her birth, as we'd been told she might have a severe birth defect early on in the pregnancy. Although additional testing had turned up negative, we still were a bit nervous. She did have a birth mark in the very spot on her lower back where the birth defect would have shown itself. To me, that was God's way of making us aware of his awesome power! We were blessed with a beautiful, healthy daughter!

Erin is an "old soul". If one doesn't believe in reincarnation before meeting Erin, it'd be hard not to after getting to know her. There are times when I feel like my now 10 year old is so much older than I am. She has great insight and such brilliant ideas. She is a fantastic artist who loves rainbows. She's compassionate and empathetic beyond her years. Not to say she doesn't have a mischevious kid inside her, but she is genuinely a wonderful, wise soul!

So, Erin, my love, on your 10th birthday, I tell you that I am so honored to be your momma. You are unlike anyone else, so different from your sisters. You are fun to be around, great to talk to, and such a marvelous friend. We are all lucky to have you in our lives!!!!

We love you, Rynbow!

Happy 3rd Birthday, Cassidy Ryan!

A funny morning story:

Ryan and I woke up and went into Ali's room, where Cassidy spent the night last night. They were awake already but still in bed. We said, "It's somebody's birthday, who's having a birthday?" Cassidy raises her hand and said, "It's me, it's Khaki-dee's birthday!" We sang to her, she ate a cupcake for breakfast, she went off to school in her favorite outfit...a Blue's Clues outfit that was actually given to Erin on her 2nd birthday!

So, it is our Cassidy's 3rd birthday. We can remember the moment you entered our lives...Erin was on a field trip to EPCOT, Ali and Katie were at school. Dr. Littell said, "Welcome to the club" (he had 4 girls too). Grammy and Daddy and I all said you looked like Erin, and you did. You are so funny and so smart and so determined to be your own person! We marvel at your ability to do whatever you set your mind to. You are our swimmer girl, our fish! You make us laugh more than anyone with your antics, your smiles and your silliness! We love you so much!

Happy Birthday Cassie-Doodle...we love you very much!!!

Cassidy's birthday party!

Thanks to all who attended Cassidy's birthday party at Tot to Trot. It was a fun time and she had a blast (even after puking up her cupcake). She's at a cute age where it's really all about having fun and she's not focused on being the center of attention. She was just happy to see her friends! When asked who came to her party, she really could only answer "Jophes, Joe, Joey came to 'Chotchuchrot' for Khaki-dee's birfday". There were other kids from her class at the party, as well her sisters, but I think she only mentioned Joe because the other kids are always around...Joe was the only one who came from outside of school. It was funny.

Her birthday is Monday, she'll be 3. What a wonderful age...I can't wait to share it with her!!!

Nostalgia gone wrong...

Ok, so I admit it: I was a big New Kids on the Block fan when I was in my early teens. Ok, I was a really big fan...and it really stretched until my mid teens. I'm not going to go into the number of posters I had on my wall(s), or the number of concerts I attended, or the fact the I did own a "HOMEBOY" shirt, wore a black vest and a wide brimmed black hat. I'm just not going there. I will tell you that I did not have any sort of bedding with the group on it...that just seemed wrong.

By the time the band disappeared into obscurity, it had lost my fan-ship. Actually, I think it was about the time Joey McIntyre went through puberty and wanted to be called Joe that I lost interest. And so that time in my life appeared to be over...thank goodness.

When the Today Show announced their summer concert series lineup with a "Secret" Reunion of a band, I honestly had thoughts of the Police, Van Halen, Kiss...but NKOTB never entered my mind. I think I'd simply forgotten (or blocked out) that they'd existed. Word got out and it was announced that New Kids were indeed BACK! Yippee!

SO, somebody, somewhere thought it would be a great idea if New Kids on the Block had a reunion. I must admit, I was silently intrigued. It was clear what Donnie Wahlberg and "Joe" McIntyre had been up to, as they've made pretty respectable names for themselves in the acting business. But, what had front-kid heartthrob Jordan Knight, brother Jonathan and odd looking Danny Wood been up to in the last 15 years. Jordan and Danny were both still recording apparently (what, I'm not sure of) and Jonathan picked real estate (he was the quiet one anyway).

I missed the Today show yesterday. I think it was intentional. I might have forgotten it was on. OR, I probably knew that it'd be on the internet later on and I wouldn't have to watch all the segments and commercials and teasers for my 15 minutes of curiousity.

Thanks to YouTube, I was able to look up the three 5 minute segments. I was hoping it'd be decent, I was hoping I would find they've matured well, I was hoping I'd find them appealing. Maybe, just maybe, I could share this band with my daughters. Yeah, NO. It was painful. It was absurd. It just didn't work. First problem: you can't be 40 and in a band called "NEW KIDS on the Block". Second problem: time passed, voices changed, the old songs just don't work. Third problem: the dancing that was adorable in the late 80's was meant to be fast paced, not near geriatric. There are oodles of other problems, but the more I write the more you might actually think that I watched the segments more than once...I assure you, I DID NOT!

So, nostalgic curiousity turned to a morbid observation (sort of like when you can't not look at an accident as you pass it on the highway). I honestly can say at this point, I'm ok with not attending their reunion tour dates. Some things just need to be left alone. Remember in Poltergeist when they built the house over the old burial ground? They really shouldn't have done that. Bringing back New Kids on the Block is kind of like that.

ISR...I can swim...Just watch me!

Well, I know one thing. My kids won't be a drowning statistic. Here in Florida, the leading cause of accidental death in children is drowning. Thanks to a wonderful organization, ISR, Cassidy and Lily won't be among the thousands of kids every year that slip unnoticed into the water never to come up again. All of the girls went through the program, but it's wonderful knowing that my littlest one is now safe and sound around the pool. Please know that I am adamant about water safety and I always supervise my kids around the water, but accidents happen and ISR can prevent drowning accidents.

The "final" that they have to pass is a simulation of what would happen if they fell in the pool fully clothed. Lily doesn't even wear shoes yet, but she did for the test. They are put in the water at different angles, even upside down and backwards to simulate a backward tumble into the water. Without missing a beat, in less than 2 seconds, both girls were in a stable back float, breathing, slightly ticked off and making noise to be picked up!

Lily actually got in by herself after lessons today. I'm comfortable knowing that if she loses her balance (which she will do) and falls in the water, she'll roll on to her back, float, breathe and "bleet" (for lack of a better word) until someone picks her up.

Cassidy has been floating since about 6 weeks of age and now she's doing the backstroke. She's a fish. At our May party, she was in the pool splashin' with the big kids and keeping up with them!

So, once again, my unending thanks to Jane Simmons, our wonderful instructor, who has saved my daughters' lives without them having been endangered! We love you Jane!!!

http://www.infantswim.com/

The May Party

Well, for those of you who were there...thank you!!! For those of you who weren't, you missed a heck of a party! We literally had folks flying in from around the country for this party (no kidding, we had TX, MT and CT represented). We had a great time, lots of food, friends and fun! And let us not forget, the best bartender (and brother) imported directly from Montana!!! The pool was certainly the biggest attraction...did anyone even notice the bounce house???? An extra special thanks to Shelly for helping me set up, to Jeff and his on the go mobile bar, Rich for your running around (I've never had so much fun stealing ice before), and my dear husband who put up with my nagging...the room does look lovely honey! We had a great time...see you next time!

*Pictures coming soon!*

Happy 1st Birthday, Liliana Claire!

Happy First Birthday Lily! It's really hard to believe that you came into our lives only a year ago today. You have become such a huge part of our lives that, while I can't always remember which name to call you, I can't imagine my life without you. I have been so blessed by being able to have you with me every day of this first precious year. As I watch you grow, I marvel at all the little things, your smiles, your dimples, your ticklishness, your chunky little thighs, the way you quiet down when Cassidy sings "Hi Lily" to you and every little thing you say. You are the most wonderful gift and every day I thank God for the miracle of you!

Happy Birthday Liliana Claire Birks-Kilman! We love you!

Mom, Dad, Ali, Erin, Katie and Cassidy

She had her cake...

...and she ate it too! I found out that our high chair comes apart in all sorts of new and different ways. She's a cutie...even with an amazing amount of chocolate icing all over her!

Choo Choo!

It's official: Cassidy is on the Potty Train!

It really only took 1 day, new panties and a couple of accidents to get Cassidy fully potty trained!!! We couldn't be happier. While it was a long time in comin', it's finally complete. She's telling us when she needs to go, on the road or in the house, she's making it and we're done with daytime diapers & pull ups!!! She's still wet overnight, but we can deal with that!

She and I went together to Target to pick out some new big girl panties...she picked Dora the Explorer (big surprise there) and Elmo/Sesame Street ones. She's so proud of them, she told the girl at the check out, "These are MY big girl panties! You see them?" She looks forward to a new pair every day!

Whoo Hoo! Only one more to go!

Camping!!!

The Girl Scout Troops from Trinity Lutheran

What a weekend!!! I could tell some stories about the fun I had this weekend...unfortunately the blog would take until next Thursday to read...so I'll post pictures and give a summary!



Friday night, Alison and Erin went camping with their Junior Girl Scout troop. Under the superb leadership of two wonderful leaders, Monica Folk and Shelly Hartwig, the girls built campfires, cooked dinner, set up tents, dug primitive bathroom pits and prepared to host their little sister Brownie troop (which actually includes their little sister)! Saturday, I arrived with Katie and the rest of the troop (along with my fearless co-leader, Christine). We had a great day and evening, playing games, eating, singing songs, eating, taking hikes, eating, stargazing, and did I mention, eating??? Fun was had by all!!! But, don't take my word for it...check out the pictures on the side!!!!!

Cassidy might be on the Potty Train!!!!

Boy, it looks as though we might have finally figured out this girl's currency. After a near success (but not quite) last week, Cassidy wistfully stares out the car window and says very quietly, "I want panties like Miley". Miley being apparently a successful potty trained friend at school.

We've been frustrated with her lack of success or caring or something...ever since I jinxed myself with the flippant comment, "I never had to potty train my kids, they all did it themselves".

Alas, with any luck, we might have found the golden ticket. Dora the Explorer big girl panties!

After changing a yucky diaper tonight, I asked her if she really wanted panties like Miley. She said, "oh yes". I told her she needed to go potty on the potty seat. She promptly went and peed! She picked a pair of brand new panties and (oh so cute) put them on! She was so big and proud! In the next 2 hours, she must have peed 6 times! All in the potty!

Choo choo! The Potty Train is at least in the station!!!!

Can it have been SO LONG!?!?!?!

It's April already??? March just flew by!!!

There is probably too much to update on with the blog, but I'll give some current/just past events!

Spring Break! I got a much needed break when I went down to visit my aunt and uncle in Jupiter (the city, not the planet). I only had Lily with me, so it was truly a much less busy time! I was pampered with 2 massages, a pedicure, and a manicure. I tell you, I could get used to that! Erin, Katie and Cassidy came down initially with me, Ryan flew down Friday night and then they all flew home Sunday night after 2 fun field trips to Wannado City and Lion Country Safari. The kids had a great time, but wanted to stay...I said no way! While I was being pampered, they had a good time at Camp Discovery (Erin and Katie) and daycare (Cassidy).

This week started recurrent swim lessons for Cassidy and first timers for Lily! They are both doing tremendously well. Seeing as we have a pool, and seeing as how we love our girls, we really want them to know how to survive if they fall in the water. I always feel so sad and upset to hear of a child drowning in a pool, pond or lake around here and will do my best to make sure my kids never show up as a tragic statistic. All of the other girls have been through this particular program and I really love what it teaches. Anyone who is interested can check it out at: http://www.infantswim.com/ I can't say enough about the program. Jane Simmons has been our instructor for the last 3 years and we couldn't adore her more!!! She's so good with the girls and Cassidy was so eager to get back in the water with her this year!!!! I'll post some pictures later today.

Thanks for checking in with the BKSeven!!!!

Germies and Sickies...

We are on something like day 15 of someone in the house being sick! Ryan is just recovering from a cold that for a day or two in the middle, really knocked him down...fever and everything. For a while I was able to dismiss Lily's fever as possible teething...but now that the nose is yucky and there are no teeth, I can't deny the fact that it, too, is a cold. And Cassidy has been home all week with a fever, cough and runny nose. The older girls have been fine, though Ali battled through strep a few weeks ago. I haven't managed to catch anything, which is quite unlike me. I will chalk that up to a generally more healthy lifestyle...or at least I'll try to.

Other than the sickies, everything has been going on pretty smoothly in the BK Seven household. The kids are doing well in school. We're moving ahead with plans to remodel the house. Ali tried out and made the cheerleading squad at Horizon. The olders are all taking tumbling lessons and are doing quite well!

Hoping and wishing for health!!!!

Laurel

Heavy Metal!

Metal mouth, brace face, look out, there must be a train comin' down those tracks!

Ali got braces today! I don't think she was as dejected as she'd like anyone to believe. The reason I surmise this would be the cute metal smile she flashed for her "after" shot.

Katie also started orthodontic treatment this past week with a palate spreader. I feel terrible when I have to turn it (2 turns every night). She's been really good about it, not complaining at all, but I really feel like I'm slowly tearing her mouth apart.

Stay tuned for some dazzling grins!

A new milestone!

Lily is now 9 months and 1 week old. A little while ago, I heard her "talking" in her crib after taking a 4 hour nap (yeah!). I went in to get her up, which is the high point of my day! I was greated by this absolutely adorable, wide-eyed, sunshine-y face peering at me from not between the bars of her crib, but OVER the rail! She pulled up in her crib! I keep looking at this super tiny little girl...at 9 months she still only weighs 16.5 pounds...and thinking that she's going to be walking soon and it's going to look so funny. She has such a great personality and she's getting more and more coordinated every day! She's eating finger food. She LOVES freeze dried bananas and strawberries along with Cheerios for breakfast. She humors me with a jar of baby food for lunch, but usually likes to have some peas (not squished, but actual peas) to keep her busy. She's very verbal and the highlight of HER day is when her sister Cassidy pops up around her. Enjoy the pictures...she was climbing on her mats today and pulling up to kneel or standing!

She's growing up!

Ryan drives at Daytona!

Well, today Ryan got his Christmas present. He drove 8 laps at Daytona International Speedway with the Richard Petty Driving Experience! My dad, Erin, Katie, Cassidy, Lily and I all witnessed him driving up to 141 miles per hour around the track! It was very cool. The best thing about a present that rocks is seeing the expression on the face of the one receiving. That was cool when he saw on Christmas morning what he was getting. The only thing better than that was his triumphant exit from the track! He had a great time and we all had a blast watching him! I bet he felt like I was standing still driving 75 home from the track!

Go Mariner Cheerleaders!!!

I have to brag on "my girls". I am the very proud assistant coach of the Bellalago Mariners Cheerleading Squad. We started off the year with 15 girls, were down to 13 by winter break, 2 couldn't participate in our first competition, so we were down to 11 and 1 was dismissed from the squad (as of yesterday afternoon) leaving us with 10 girls. These girls worked their behinds off to get a routine down, with the constant shifting when teammates have left or been dismissed from the squad. It's been a work in progress, literally going to 9:30 this morning changing the routine. But, it paid off!!!!

CONGRATULATIONS! They placed third in their first ever competition!!! So, congratulations, Katie, Keyanna, Elizabeth, Amber, Kristin, Kailynn, Kiara, Jamie, Essence and Ebony! I am very proud of you!!!!

Back to School...and Girl Scouts...YEAH!!!!

Well, the girls are back in school!! I sort of miss them.

Lily and I have spent a QUIET morning. We sent Cassidy and Daddy off to school and work early, sent Ali to the bus and took Erin and Katie to school. That, coupled with waking up early, must have worn out the little girl. She spent about 15 minutes playing while I cleaned out the refrigerator before she was ready for her morning snack followed by a really good 2 1/2 hour nap. She woke up blissfully happy, so we ventured off to the store to re-stock the now empty refrigerator. Again she played for about 30 minutes before needing lunch and her afternoon nap. This nap will be much shorter, since we have to pick up Erin and Katie at school in about 30 minutes.

Tonight we start a new "season". It's GIRL SCOUT COOKIE TIME! You heard me right. Just when you thought you'd opened your last box of Thin Mints, those sweet little angelic peddlers of caloric deliciousness come knocking down...errr, I mean on, your door to entice you into indulging in some nostalgic late night binges with those yummy favorites. So, if any one wants any...call me!

Happy New Year...2008!

We'd like to wish everyone a happy, healthy and prosperous 2008! We hope it is a year filled with peace and joy!

We had a wonderful Christmas that can only be described as picture perfect! For once, we were well prepared (not wrapping presents moments before they were torn into)! We had a few family gatherings, one at my brother Jeff's house, one at my parents', and one at our house. We kept gift giving at those gatherings simple. We gave our family gifts to one another on Christmas morning. This Christmas, I let the girls buy gifts for their sisters. They really were thoughtful and listened to what they wanted and chose particularly well.

Christmas morning was wonderful. The girls were up bright and early at 7am, little sisters in the arms of big sisters. Santa gave the older girls (and us) a Wii gaming system and gave some big foam play mats to the littler girls. Everyone was delighted. We all opened our gifts to one another one at a time so we could appreciate the thoughtfulness put into each gift. I think Ali and Erin REALLY enjoyed seeing Cassidy's delight at the first Christmas she's really been able to understand and enjoy. Lily thought it was all a little much and like any 8 month old thought wrapping paper was very delicious!

New Year's Eve and Day brought a wonderful kind of family togetherness. Ali was with us for Christmas and has been at her "other family's" house since the 26th. Last night, both families came together to celebrate the new year. We had pizza and games at our house. The kids all played well together. We lit off fireworks in the cul-de-sac at about 9, with each kid playing hot or cold with the dads to make the selection of which was lit next. They left around 10 to get home safely. We had a really good time. Cassidy and Erin made it up to midnight. They slet until a respectable 9 this morning. Today we all decided to get back together and go to a local holiday attraction called ICE! It is sponsored by Gaylord Palms resort and is a wonderland of ice sculptures and COLDNESS! We bundled up in the parkas they provided and enjoyed the art and better yet, the ice slides!!! Cassidy really had a great time. NO FEAR, despite being exhausted! I'll post some pictures for you to enjoy! Ali was especially greatful, getting to be with both of her families!

We'd like to thank everyone for the Christmas cards and many pictures we received. The front of our refrigerator is full of your bright and smiling faces! We are especially reminded at this time of year how blessed we are to have so many wonderful people in our lives.

We hope everyone had a wonderful holiday! Blessings to you all for a safe and happy 2008!