Preschool Bound

Today was Lauren's first official day of preschool. She and I attended her orientation on Tuesday, in which we met her two teachers and the other girls in the class. Before leaving for school, we took Lauren's picture sporting her new pink backpack. Kate wanted to take one of Lauren and I as well.

Upon arriving at school, we hung Lauren's backpack in her cubby. She then quickly headed off to the toys to start playing. I snapped one last picture and pulled her away from the toys long enough to give her a kiss goodbye.

On the way to school Lauren was very curious as to what I was going to do all morning with both of them in school. She keeps telling me, "When you go home, Mommy, there won't be any kids in the house." That's right, Lauren. But don't worry, Mommy will miss both of you while you're gone.

Birthday Party...Take 1

For some reason, the past two years have lent themselves to two parties for Kate celebrating her special day. We have the family party and then a "friend" party as well. Our family celebration was the Friday prior to her birthday. With 20+ people, we definitely had a full house.

A month ago, I thought I was going to get off the hook in terms of the cake. Kate decided she wanted a simple heart-shaped cake. I couldn't believe my ears! After Ariel last year and Tinkerbell the year before, this was going to be a "piece of cake." But, that changed when she decided she'd rather have a Barbie cake. To some the cake may look as though Barbie is jumping out of the frosted creation. Yet, it is supposed to be the bottom of her dress. Have any of you realized how tall Barbies are lately?! Nonetheless, Kate thought the cake was beautiful...which in a mother's eyes, is all that matters.


Kate received wonderful gifts and plenty of activities to keep us busy when she tracks out this week. Thanks to everyone that made her birthday so special.

Happy 5th Birthday, Kate!

After a whirlwind weekend of birthday parties, we celebrated Kate's 5th birthday tonight with a quiet evening at home, just the four of us. We can't believe she actually turned 5 today...how time flies!

We are very proud of all you have accomplished in the past five years, Kate. You are a loving, energetic and enthusiastic girl...a beautiful person, both on the inside and the outside. We wish you only the best life has to offer and may all of your birthday wishes come true.

Happy Birthday, Kate! WE LOVE YOU!

Soccer - Season 2

Kate started another season of soccer this past Saturday. We are already making progress after the first game. She actually kicked the ball a few times during play, which rarely happened last season. Must be the light blue shirts versus the old yellow ones.

At her first practice tonight, she did great in all of the drills and started showing some speed on the field. Kate's always been a fast runner, but for some reason held back in the spring. She even opted to stay after practice to kick some goals with Dad.

Trying to Beat the Heat

As always, NC is providing us with some hot and humid weather the month of August. So, this past weekend we pulled out the pool for the girls to cool off while Mark and I attempted to do some yard work. Kate preferred to run through the sprinkler while Lauren took a more relaxed approach and lounged in the pool. Nonetheless, fun was had by all!

"Twins"

I recently took Kate shopping in search of a few clothes items for fall. She pleaded with me to go to the Disney store, informing me she had never been. I, of course, gave in and honored her wishes. Although she wanted several items in the store, I convinced her that pajamas would be a wise choice. We selected matching "Minnie" nightgowns for her and Lauren. Upon putting them on that night, both girls declared..."twins."

Homegrown Produce II

Although we have produced several tomatoes over the past few weeks, here is a photo of two of our first "fruits of labor." We have thoroughly enjoyed watching our produce grow, not to mention the delicious taste!