The 94 Days of Summer 2008

Day 43

2008-08-01T23:01:00.003-04:00

I haven't posted about it until today because I was afraid it would change, but TOMORROW MIKE IS COMING HOME!!! Yay!!! 2 months earlier than expected and we couldn't be more thrilled. His flight lands in Norfolk at 9:46am tomorrow. Woooo hooooo!

I took Izzie to the vet this morning and then the rest of the day was spent getting the house in order for Mike's return! My friend Carrie came over and we had dinner at Eastside (kind of a disaster with super loud music and a smokey "non-smoking" section - GAG!) But, it was good food anyway. Then she came over and helped me finish up some cleaning on the house, and she gave Mikaela a bath for me! I didn't really take the time to get any pictures of the kids today, but I thought this was fitting for today ...

12 hours until Mikey comes home!!!!

Day 42

2008-07-31T22:51:00.005-04:00

Today we went the Virginia Air and Space Center. We started out with another IMAX movie, "Blue Planet" which I saw only the first few minutes of once again thanks to Miss Naughty herself, Mikaela! Brooklin thought it was boring, but Haley thought it was interesting. Then we spent the day walking through the museum. There was a TON of fun stuff to do there so it made for a fun and interesting day. Mikaela was a bit cranky from being woke up early again, but luckily Brooklin has the magic touch when pushing her in the stroller to get her to sleep! :)

Haley learning how to direct aircraft

Mikaela really wanted the Jelly Beans (real or painted on walls or stools - it didn't matter!) that were all over the "Candy Unwrapped" exhibit

Haley and Brooklin making paper airplanes at this station where you make them and then try to fly them into different sized holes

Brooklin and Mikaela in a huge airplane looking out the window. (Haley and Mikaela were co-pilots in the cockpit of the plane - we had to draaggg Mikaela out of there! Brooklin had a blast playing a flight simulation game here too. I successfully crashed the plane about a million times myself! haha)

Part of the "Candy Unwrapped" exhibit was to take the sour challenge - aka eating war heads!

The Fallen Warhead; Never Fear, Brooklin is here!

Haley, the chocolate lover! (It says, "Save the planet, it's the only one with Chocolate!")

Me being silly in the little dome mirror thing - haha

Day 41

2008-07-30T23:18:00.004-04:00

Today we went to the Virginia Aquarium again. This time we got up early and went to see the IMAX movie Whales and Dolphins 3D. I had to wake Mikaela up to go (of course) which made for a pretty tired (and grumpy) Mikaela all day! Brooklin and Haley got to see the entire movie, but I had to leave with Mikaela after about 5 minutes because she was squirming and crying! I had a feeling that might happen, so I was prepared! We had a good time exploring today and actually reading the exhibits. Last time we were only there for about an hour; Today we spent the whole day. It was entirely TOO HOT, but it was a fun day none the less.

The otters - my personal favorite! Unfortunately they were all sleeping while we were there! This one got up for a 30 second dip in the water and then went right back to sleep!

Mikaela being naughty at the otter exhibit not wanting sissy to corral her!

Our little squirrel friend on the nature trail eating a piece of popcorn. Now, I don't know if this is normal, but this squirrel had the biggest balls! He was walking funny they were so large! lol But he was sooooo cute and friendly!

Haley at the sting ray/skate pool again

At the sanitizing station after petting them!

A cool jellyfish

Cute little lion fish

Scary shark!

Day 40

2008-07-29T15:50:00.007-04:00

First and foremost for today ...

Happy 16th

Birthday, Ryan!

Today we were going to go to the zoo, but after sitting in tunnel traffic by the time we got there we were only going to have a few hours before they closed and to top it off, the tiger exhibit was closed! So, we decided to skip the zoo and headed to Michael's to get some craft stuff to do.

Brooklin made a Happy Birthday sign for her boyfriend, Ryan. Awwww - how sweet!

Haley Bug lovin' on Izzie ...

This evening we are heading off to Target to get a few things we need and the next 2 books in the Twilight series for Brooklin since she read the 1st book in just a few days! (Apparently they are really good, even though they sound very strange to me! haha)

Day 39

2008-07-29T15:27:00.002-04:00

Oops! I fell asleep last night before I posted to the blog! So, there will just be 2 poasts for today. :) Monday, which was day 39, I woke up to a hurt Izzie. I'm not sure what happened to her - she was fine when I went to bed and then when I woke up she was limping. She was laying around and acting almost lethargic yesterday so I was really worried about her. By the evening she was acting much better though, so that was good. We all went outside and were gonna have a water balloon fight, but it turned into playing in the hose with Izzie instead! :) Not exactly what we had planned for yesterday, but I thought it was fun anyways. (And so did Izzie!) Mikaela was going to play in her little sprinkler pool, but it was broken. :( We sprayed her with the hose, but she doesn't really like it! She spent her time climbing up the steps to the back patio over and over and over again! haha

Day 38

2008-07-27T22:15:00.002-04:00

Today we went to the Patrick Henry Mall with Carrie and Noah and then went to Olive Garden for dinner. Dinner was yummy! Mikaela thoroughly enjoyed her fettucini alfredo - so much so that she was licking her plate! :) Brooklin didn't seem to enjoy herself, although she never told me why. Such a shame because we went there special for her. :( But it was good and fun none the less for everyone else.

Waiting for our table

Mikaela and her fettucini

Day 37

2008-07-26T22:42:00.003-04:00

Today I cut the grass and then we headed to downtown Norfolk for an Urban photo shoot with Brooklin!

Haley helped me out while I cut the grass this morning by playing with Mikaela. (Brooklin was still sleeping in typical teenage summer break style!) She was (trying) to give her a bottle just before I was going to put her in bed when I came in to take a shower.

Some snapshots from downtown ...

Mikaela thought it was funny to try to run into the street! She was so good while we were taking pictures sitting in her stroller, so just before we were leaving I let her down to walk around. All I can say is, she is TROUBLE! haha

And some of beautiful Brooklin ...

She has her very own street in downtown Norfolk! haha

"Why do people have to stare?" haha

Day 36

2008-07-25T21:37:00.003-04:00

Today I started the day off by dropping Cappy off at the vet for a haircut and bath. Mikaela was all about her book "Hello Calico" this morning. I read it to her several times this morning and she was saying "calico." It was so cute! Then as soon as sissy woke up, she took it to her to read. Haley is so sweet that she, of course, obliged! Brooklin was still sleeping, as you can see! haha

Then I broke out the $2000 vaccuum (long story, but let's just say I really love my brother Joey! aka Brooklin's dad - haha) and wow does it work great for getting all the Izzie hair out of my house! :D We are keeping Izzie for a while longer in case you hadn't noticed! After I rid the house of dog (again - but that vaccuum worked wonders for getting all the hair off the couch!!) we picked Cappy up and brought him home. He's so cute - he looks like Lady from Lady and the Tramp!!!

After we dropped Cappy off, we went to Walmart (I hate the store, but they have the BEST chocolate cheesecake sampler there!) to get a few things we needed, but mostly to get one of those chocolate cheesecakes! :) Brooklin was carrying the cheesecake (and a gallon of milk) to the car and I told her, "Don't drop the cheesecake at all costs!" haha She did drop her purse because we were so busy laughing at our retarded selves. hahahaha

Mikaela got a cute little pair of bunny slippers at Walmart. So cute!

As we were leaving the parking lot, Brooklin remembered that we didn't get whipped cream which she has been wanting forever! So we went to Food Lion and I ran in and got some. It's so much fun!

Now we are getting ready to watch the movie "27 Dresses." :)

Day 35

2008-07-24T23:50:00.002-04:00

Today I gave Izzie a bath - that was fun! haha We made a HUGE mess in the bathroom and I wore myself out bathing her (yeah - i was in the tub with her! I looked like I had nasty hairy legs! haha) and then cleaning the bathroom. Carrie and family got home today and after some unfortunate circumstances upon returning home, they ended up having to stay in a hotel again for a few nights! So, they invited us over to the hotel for beer-thirty (free drinks for 2 hours - YES!) and a dip in the pool and hot tub. The hot tub was wonderful!!

Mikaela after she enjoyed a chocolate doughnut

Mikaela on the elevator in the hotel on the way down to the pool

At the pool

Gettin a ride from Miss Carrie

The whole crew :)

Day 34

2008-07-23T19:48:00.004-04:00

Today I finished up Mikaela's room and it looks so nice!

We hung around the house the first part of the day while I finished Mikaela's room. Then I put Mikaela in her high chair for lunch and I was in the living room folding laundry while she was feeding herself. I was almost done and I realized she was awful quiet in there and she was surely done eating by now. I went in and she was asleep in her high chair! She had her head resting on her hand and she looked so sweet!

Then we all got cleaned up and went to go do some shopping. Brooklin got a pair of sunglasses finally! Not the same ones, but cute ones none the less. She also got the book "Twilight" for the plane ride home. Then we went to Petsmart for dog food and cat litter and Haley wanted one of every animal in the place! haha She loves animals just as much as I do. :) She's so sweet.

Brooklin took these pictures of me and the girls.

And we can't forget Brooklin lookin all cute in her hoodie - she's pretty fly for a white girl! haha

Not really sure what we are doing with the rest of our evening, but hopefully we can find something fun to do.

Day 33

2008-07-22T22:58:00.003-04:00

Today we hung around the house (other than a trip to Food Lion and Taco Bell) and I attempted to clean up Mikaela's room. I got about halfway done because she had to take naps in there which prevented me from working while she was sleeping and then I kept getting interrupted while she was awake! Hopefully I can finish it tomorrow or something. I took a before picture (be prepared - it's a mess, but nothing compared to sissy's room!! I will attempt it another day when Izzie is gone):

Izzie only has 2 days left with us. It's actually going to be so sad when she leaves even though she has been so naughty at times. She has been SO good the last few days and Mikaela just loves her. She goes and finds her and sits next to her, or on her lots of times! Izzie doesn't mind a bit. She tries to touch Cappy and he snaps at her. So SAD! Here is Mikaela with her buddy:

Another pretty boring day, but I did get a lot done around here so that's good!

Day 32

2008-07-21T22:48:00.002-04:00

Today we planned on going to the Aquarium again to catch the iMax movie "Whales and Dolphins" but they changed the times on us so we missed it! So, we decided to go on the hunt to replace Brooklin's sunglasses again. We went to 2 more Charlotte Russe stores (which is where we got them) and struck out again. It seems like the perfect sunglasses are never to be found again! We basically just spent the entire day walking 2 malls even though we only bought 2 little things. It was fun, being that I am a shopaholic and all! haha

Haley coloring at lunch (I wanted to eat lunch before we left, but I was TOO STRESSED by Mikaela and her partner in crime, Izzie! haha)

Haley and Brooklin playing tic-tac-toe at dinner

Me and Brooklin were torturing Cappy by barking - he thought there were dogs outside! lol

Brooklin howling! haha

Mikaela thinks we are weird - haha

Day 31

2008-07-20T22:57:00.004-04:00

Today was be really lazy day! (And I LOVED EVERY MINUTE OF IT!) The dog got me and Mikaela up at 8 and then when Mikaela went back to sleep at around 10, I took a nap until almost 12 when she woke up!!! I never do that. :) Then Haley played on the computer most of the day (and talked to her best friend Kylie!) and Brooklin and I watched movies. It was a great, relaxing day which I totally needed! If we hadn't needed toilet paper, I wouldn't have even gotten out of my jammies. haha

I did manage to capture a cute picture of Mikaela after she crawled into Izzie's kennel. I swear it was by choice! haha I didn't banish her to the kennel because I wanted to be lazy - her OR Izzie, for that matter. Both the little troublemakers were actually really good today.

Day 30

2008-07-19T23:16:00.003-04:00

Today I spent the better part of the day cleaning the house, which was out of control since we have been so busy! Then we headed off to Greenbrier Mall to see if you could replace Brooklin's sunglasses, but they didn't have the same ones. :( We have one more mall to try so hopefully they will have them! We rode the streets of Chesapeake looking for something new and exciting to eat, but we came up empty handed. We did have a run in with a little teenage punk who thought I wasn't going fast enough, but I put him in his place! haha People are just so rude, it never ceases to amaze me!! So, we just came back near our house and had Chili's for dinner since we couldn't find anything exciting. Here are some pics from dinner.

Drinking out of her cup like a big girl!

Mikaela was going to pay! haha

Day 29

2008-07-18T21:31:00.002-04:00

Today was just a horrible day. We should have just stayed home with the way the day went before we left, but we didn't! We went to the beach for about 3 hours and that was nice. The rest of the day just sucked BIG TIME! Izzie was horrible, there was ridiculous traffic because people DO NOT know how to drive, etc., so on. The good news is, it's almost over!

A few pictures and a video from today. I didn't even take my camera, I just borrowed Brooklin's point and shoot. :)

I had to censor myself! haha

Mikaela trying to fill her buckets back up with water

Day 28

2008-07-17T22:56:00.005-04:00

Today we did some shopping/errands. First, went to the Post Office to mail off a package to Mike, who should be home in just a few weeks now instead of October!!! We are so completely excited and cannot wait to have him home! We tried to get a memory card for Haley's Barbie Girl mp3 player, but the people at Best Buy are clearly retarded and tried to tell me it did take the type of memory card that I knew it didn't because I have tried and it didn't fit. Silly me, I should have googled it before I left because I did when I got home and figured out what I need! So, we will go get that soon so that Haley can have more than 8 measley songs on her player. Then we went to the mall again. We finally went to Lens Crafters today and got Haley's glasses tightened, which have been loose for months! (I kept forgetting to go!) Brooklin got a totally cute Peace necklace today which was one of our missions while she was here. :) We had some treats from Dairy Queen; Haley got a dipped cone, Mikaela got a little bowl of ice cream and Brooklin and I got Moolattes! Izzie was so cute this morning that I had to snap a picture of her. She must have had some sort of vendetta against Brooklin today because she chewed up her book this morning and her new sunglasses this evening. 1 more week until her parents get home from Seattle!!! haha I know I will miss her though, strangely enough.

On the way home from the mall, we stopped by our neighbors house to pick up their mail. I hopped out of the car and told Brooklin to get in the driver's seat. I let her drive us home!! (She does this at home, so I thought it would be fine in the neighborhood!) She is actually a really good driver! :)

Mikaela enjoying ice cream

Haley eyein' up her ice cream

We let Mikaela out of the stroller to walk the mall - she thought that was great! :)

RIP Cute lil sunglasses!

Haley thought she was gonna die when Brooklin drove! haha (Afterwards, she said you are a pretty good driver actually!)

Here is a hilarious video of Mikaela jammin' to her new favorite song, "Let's Start A Riot" by Three Days Grace! (She bangs her head whenever this song comes on and the "Let's start a riot" part comes on! haha)

Day 27

2008-07-16T20:21:00.006-04:00

Today we went to the beach again. It was business as usual - Mikaela and Haley playing in the sand most of the time! Brooklin and I soaked up the sun in our beach charis most of the day. Brooklin and Haley played in the waves (not quite as big as last time, but still pretty good for the bay!) for about an hour. Mikaela ate lots of sand, as usual! She also seems to have an affinity for stinking her hands in sea water and licking them!!! Ewwwwwww - babies are strange! haha (But cute!) It was another very relaxing, wonderful day at the beach. We have been home for about 2 hours or thereabout, and I am already stressed out. Izzie ran away again and there is just too much to do for 2 hands right now it seems. But hey, I'm doin ok! Everyone is fed and Izzie is back safe at home. :)

Ugh. As I was writing this, Izzie chewed up one of Mikaela's sippy cups!!!! I NEED A BEER. So much for that relaxing day at the beach ...

Watching a seagull close by

Licking the sea water - YUCK!

Picture me laying in the other chair; that's pretty much a synopsis of the day! :)

Day 26

2008-07-15T23:16:00.004-04:00

Today went shopping! What is more fun for a bunch of girls than a trip to the mall for shopping? We had lots of fun and got lots of totally cute stuff. Brooklin got a lot of school clothes and a totally cute pair of sunglasses. :) Mikaela ran amuck in American Eagle while sissy tried to run after her! haha She got a good nap while we were walking through the mall as well. Haley was as good as gold, as always! Funny how they are polar opposites. We forgot to bring the camera to the mall, so I did pictures of Mikaela's bath time today!

She loves to do this every time the bath water is filling up - let the water run into and over the cup!

I love that cute baby butt!!!!!

Day 25

2008-07-14T18:10:00.003-04:00

Today we hung out with Chad and Kelly most of the day here at our house. Me, Haley and Chad played WII and had a good time! I don't play much - mostly because I am too busy and every time I try to play Mikaela is too fussy! Other than that it was just a chill out kinda of day. Today is payday, so we should be able to have some more fun the rest of the week! :) Brooklin was bored to death (she doesn't enjoy playing WII), but the rest of us had fun!

I'm so immature! haha

Snuck in a mini session with Brook on the front porch! :) She's so beautiful and amazing!

Day 24

2008-07-13T22:55:00.004-04:00

Today we hung around the house. The kids entertained themselves for the most part and I cleaned house. Chad, Kelly and Kasey came over and they were chasing each other in and out of the house and let Izzie out and she ran away. I had to chase her all over the neighborhood. I guess I didn't take her out enough to play today and we seem to have lost her tennis ball so it makes playing a little harder! So I had fun chasing her around - not REALLY! I found a stick and that got her to follow me back home. We had dinner and then hooked Izzie up to her leash, brought the computer chair into the kitchen and did Izzie rides!!! We enticed Izzie with toys and cheese and when she ran, she pulled the chair! It was great fun!! Here are a few videos and pictures of the Izzie rides:

Cappy doesn't like it when Izzie gets crazy - he tried to bite her! Don't worry, she is fine! haha

Brooklin and Mikaela had a little mishap and fell out of the chair! haha It was so funny and Mikaela thought it was great fun.

Mikaela was pushing Haley

Haley loved it!!

So did Mikaela!

Day 23

2008-07-12T21:49:00.003-04:00

Today we went to the beach! We have been wanting to go for days but the weather was not cooperating. It was a much needed day of relaxation in the sun. It was wonderful! Mikaela played in the sand (and ate lots of it!) and water happily as usual. Haley and Brooklin had fun jumping the waves. We went to the bay as usual, but for some reason there were some really big waves!! Brooklin was helping Haley learn how to jump over them. It was cute. Haley took a bad spill one time and scared me (and her) to death! I was in there with them when it happend and I was holding Mikaela (of course) and I saw the huge wave come and wisk Haley away but I couldn't get to her fast enough! Luckily as soon as the wave was over she popped right back up. Scary! She did get a sand burn on her side from it, but she was fine. We all had fun and got lots of sun. Mikaela took a nap in the wagon - it was so cute! We are all beat now and ready to just go relax and watch some tv! We are gonna watch "The Game Plan."

Day 22

2008-07-11T23:23:00.006-04:00

Today we hung around the house and I tried to clean house! I say tried because Izzie and Mikaela (aka Team Trouble) were very naughty today!! I can't even count on 2 hands the amount of things Izzie chewed up today that she shouldn't have. Mikaela was handing her tupperware out of the cabinet and she was chewing it up. Team Trouble was in full affect today! Mikaela was feeding her food from her high chair and Izzie was stealing snacks right out of her hand. Mikaela was playing in her dog food this evening (and even tried a piece!) Haley played with the neighbors and had a water ballon fight. Then she played on the computer and talked on the phone with her best friend, Kylie. Brooklin messed around on myspace, took a nap and listened to her iPod all day. We enjoyed some chocolate chip cookie dough ice cream after dinner too! I am so ready to just hit the hay - I am beat from dealing with a naughty dog and a naughty baby today!! It looks like tomorrow will be a nice beach day, so here's hoping that it works out finally!

oh bo (mikaela's way of saying ut oh) - I made a mess!

Team Trouble

The love triangle: Brooklin, the iPod and the Oreo

Day 21

2008-07-10T23:29:00.004-04:00

Today we went to the Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center. We had planned on going for an iMax movie (Whales & Dolphins 3D) but we didn't make it on time! We pulled into the parking lot just as it was supposed to be starting, and it was the last showing. I can't seem to get out of the house fast enough right now - too much on my plate I guess! I always forget to leave extra time for dealing with Izzie, and I am the queen of waiting until the last minute to do everything, including getting ready to go somewhere! But, we have a family membership there, so we decided to explore the aquarium until it closed 1 hour and 15 minutes later. It was fun, even though it was short! Mikaela was so funny - we went about 3 months ago and she LOVED the fish and turtles. Today, she was terrified of them! She didn't even want me to put her down at first. She found comfort in sissy and Brooklin's arms though so mommy could take pictures. She lightened up a little after a while and started making her really surprised "O" face. So cute! Haley enjoyed her time at the sting ray/skate pool as usual. She loves to pet them! I always get a little nostalgic when we are there. So many years ago when Haley was so weak from being so sick from chemo, we brought her and Brooklin to the Aquarium and Haley got so excited about the sting rays that she walked again for the first time! She was 3 years old. Bitter sweet memories! :)

A scared Mikaela holding onto sissy

The surprised "O" face

It's not so scary with cousin Brooklin holding her!

Cute little baby turtle in the turtle hatching lab

Hangin' with the jellyfish

It's always fun taking pictures here...

Haley, the apprentice, taking pictures!

Sadly, there's nothing left of Mikaela but a shoe! haha

Brooklin, the mad scientist!

Day 20

2008-07-09T22:57:00.002-04:00

Today we hung around the house, downloaded music, went to Plaza Azteca (my favorite!) for dinner and then went to the mall. We wanted to go to the beach today, but alas the weather is not cooperating! Rainy and overcast all day today. But we got all the songs that Brooklin wanted for her iPod and did a little shopping. We went into Victoria's Secret and I didn't pay close enough attention to where I parked Little Miss Trouble (aka Mikaela) and she could reach a drawer full of panties and next thing we knew she had pulled a bunch of panties out onto the floor and all over herself. It was soooo funny and luckily I just happened to have the camera close at hand ...

Dinner was yummy as usual! Brooklin and I shared Texas Fajitas and Haley had a beef taco,rice and beans. I, of course, had a jumbo margarita on the rocks with salt - can't go there and not get that! :)

Day 19

2008-07-08T16:42:00.005-04:00

Today I had to cut the grass. Cutting the grass, easy! Weed whacking is a whole 'nother story! Me and the weed whacker had a big fight this afternoon!!! First, I had to rewire it with string, trying to remember Mike's instructions from before he left. Then, I could NOT get it to start. Or, I got it to start, but it wouldn't stay started! As soon as I hit the gas it kept stalling on me. I finally got it to keep going when I hit the gas, but it kept stalling on me from time to time while I was whacking those evil weeds! And, the strings kept getting messed up - I'm sure I did something wrong when winding them up! I got the front yard done and was working on the back when it died once again and I said I was OVER IT! So, the back yard didn't get done, but oh well. I'm the only one who has to look at it! (Well, I guess Paul & Melissa do - sorry guys! haha) Haley hung out with Kelly most of the day and now her, Kelly and Chad are playing WII. Haley has been a huge help to me by walking Cappy every day. Sometimes I take both dogs for a walk, but mostly she walks Cappy for me and I take Izzie out back for play and potty time. haha Brooklin was pretty bored all day I am sure - taking care of Mikaela while I worked in the yard and having Izzie annoy her. She did get to read some of her book which sounds quite interesting though. We are planning on going to Target to shop for sunglasses if the rain stops. Mikaela hung around the house playing with the dogs (Izzie loves it, Cappy hates it! ha) and Brooklin. She did enjoy some of my Jamocha shake from Arby's, which she screamed and cried for whenever I decided to take a drink! Now I am just beat from working in the heat and fighting with the weed whacker!!! But, it really needed to be done (long overdue) and now it is, so I am glad!

Cappy and Izzie watching another dog outside - now I have 2 dogs to hush up when the baby is sleeping!

Even if I don't talk about it every day, rest assured we are taking Izzie outside several times a day to throw the ball!

Day 18

2008-07-07T22:23:00.002-04:00

Today we went swimsuit shopping for Brooklin! First we went to the mall and found a totally cute one at Macy's! We went back home and hung out and were in the middle of looking at myspace layouts when the power went out. So, we decided to make a trip to the Navy Exchange. (It's just no fun sitting at home with no power!) We found another cute swimsuit there. Mikaela was helping out in the dressing room and even modeled one of the swimsuit tops for us! haha We had fun. Haley wore her Peace, Love & Chocolate tank top - so befitting for a little girl who loves chocolate SOOOOO much - and looked totally cute today!

Beautiful Brooklin on the phone with her boyfriend, Ryan! (Whom she spends a lot of time on the phone with!!)

Day 17

2008-07-06T19:00:00.008-04:00

Today we hung around the house, played with Mikaela and the dog and watched a movie, P.S. I Love You. It was so good, sad but good! Haley got this month's issue of National Geographic Kids and there were some butterflies in it. While we were watching the movie, she drew a picture of the butterfly and it turned out really good! Check it out:

Mikaela had a blast getting spun around (and drug around!) in her laundry basket by Brooklin!

Izzy was still very rambunctious this morning. I took her out and threw the ball right after our morning walk, but that didn't seem to cure her. So, I was trying everything I could, and I found out what to do to make an energetic 8 month old lab calm down! Give it a raw hide bone! :)

I took Izzie out a few more times to throw the ball and finally wore her out! Then she wanted to lay with me on the couch while we watched the movie, which I was COMPLETELY ok with since it meant she wasn't buggin anyone to play and annoying us! haha Her mommy and daddy are probably going to kill me when they return from Seattle because she will want to lay on the couch with them too! ha But who could say no to such a cute (and persistent) face?

We are going to figure out what to eat for dinner and then watch the movie Mad Money tonight! It's a chick Flick marathon!! I never get to watch chick flicks! I needed a day of rest and relaxation at home. (Even though I'm not really sure it was all that relaxing between Mikaela and Izzie!)

Mikaela and Brooklin after dinner

Day 16

2008-07-05T23:09:00.005-04:00

Today was the best day of the summer so far because we picked Brooklin up from the airport in DC!! We hit some bad traffic on the way up to get her, which meant we made it there just in time! I was so happy to see her smiling face when we met in baggage claim!!! :) I have missed her soooooo much and always look forward to the time we spend together every summer. We never have more fun than than when she is here! Haley adores her, I just love her to pieces and Mikaela is just happy to have another person to hold her! (She likes to be held a lot!) The ride home was good, no traffic this time! YAY! We stopped and ate at Fuddruckers for dinner. I love Fuddruckers because they have yummy burgers with lots of fun toppings, and, yes, because I just love the name! haha It makes me laugh every time I see it. Brooklin found it to be quite funny as well - apparently she has never heard of Fuddruckers! Mikaela enjoyed some chicken and vegetables baby food, french fries, pickles, some banana and some sugar cookie while we were there! Again I say, such a piggy! We are home now (obviously) and being as silly as ever. I haven't laughed this much since Brooklin left last summer! Izzie is driving us bonkers because she has been locked up in the kennel all day (aside from being let out graciously by Melissa!) so she is FULL of energy - even more so than usual! But, it's almost bed time (which means back to the kennel) and I will take her out and play with her hard core in the morning. :)

Brooklin and I cannot look at this picture without cracking up! It looks like Mikaela is saying, "Come to the dark side! We have cookies ... and juice!" hahahaha

A pickle for the Pickle Princess!

Day 15

2008-07-04T23:29:00.003-04:00

Happy 4th of July!! We spent the day with our neighbors and had a good time. We went to the YMCA this morning and did some swimming and other fun stuff they had set up there. Then we went to their house for dinner and headed to downtown Portstmouth to watch the fireworks. Well, it turned out to be not so happy by the end of the night after we drove down there, parked and walked to the water, waited for 2 hours to watch the fireworks only for them to be cancelled!! I guess it was because there was some thunder and lightning, or maybe it was the smoke from the fire in the Dismal Swamp? I'm really not sure, but I'm thinking it was the weather. No sooner than we got back in the car did it start pouring rain! But, if the fireworks had started on time they would have been over before the rain! But, whatever - either way, we didn't see any fireworks this 4th of July! I saw on the news channel website that they have only been postponed until tomorrow evening. I wouldn't even want to go and sit in all that traffic again, but aside from that, we are headed to DC tomorrow to pick up my neice, Brooklin, from the airport! YAY! It was a big bummer not to see the fireworks and the kids were so bored (and Haley was hungry - guess she should have eaten her dinner - and Kelly was thirsty, each of which made sure we knew a hundred times or more!) waiting all that time so it was even more of a let down! Mikaela was over sitting in her stroller or on someone's lap and we were on a little hill that headed straight down to a concrete barrier and some really nasty water. It was interesting. I guess every holiday can't be the picture of perfection!

Me and my girls

Brownies - yum!

Someone is over this!

Bored children (and hungry, thirsty and tired!)

Haley trying to entertain Mikaela and keep her from going near the water!

Day 14

2008-07-03T20:41:00.004-04:00

Today was acclomate Izzy to being out and about in our house without tearing up our house or getting eaten by Cappy! :) She did awesome! We loved on her a lot (and yelled at her a lot!) We took her out 3 times to throw the ball in the backyard because she is just full of energy! Cappy still growls at her every time she comes anywhere near him, and he has snapped at her a few times, but he is actually doing so much better than I expected! They have both been out and about in the house today and it is fine. I can even walk them at the same time! (Less work for me, yay!) Haley loves to play with Izzy and pet her. Mikaela has warmed up to her quite nicely and thinks it is just too funny that she has so much energy. It has been a fun, though busy, day!

Haley and Izzy playing fetch

Mikaela wondering what the heck sissy is doing with that crazy dog!

Izzy is officially pooped out!

Haley givin Izzy some love

Day 13

2008-07-02T23:41:00.002-04:00

Today we hung around the house in the morning while mommy tried to get some things done, Haley played with Kelly and Mikaela played with her toys and drove mommy nuts, and then we ran errands. Fun, fun! Mikaela's new trick for today is drinking from a straw!! Haley had Wendy's for lunch in the mall food court and she had a chocolate Frosty which Mikaela loved as well since sissy is always nice enough to share! Once it gets melted down a bit, Haley always puts a straw in it to drink the rest. Well, Mikaela wanted some really bad, so she figured that straw out and got some more Frosty!!! She really is learning something new every day. Once we got back home, I had to get the kitchen all claned up and prepare a spot for our houseguest for the next 3 weeks, Izzy! She is Carrie's 8 month old Black Lab and is staying with us while they are away in Seattle. She is so cute and very energetic!! Cappy wasn't too sure about our new houseguest and wanted to get her when she first arrived. He still isn't too sure about her and I'm still not comfortable letting him free around her, but he is actually doing a lot better then I thought he would!. He is very territorial and has attacked other dogs before so I just don't trust him. But my hope is that he will get used to her being here after a few days. Mikaela is a bit afraid of Izzy, especially when she barks! It's going to take some getting used to around here, that's for sure! But, we have 3 weeks so I think all will be well soon enough.

Mikaela being cute this morning in the beautiful dress bought by Mom Mom for her birthday!

Mikaela scared because Izzy is barking!

Haley calming Izzy in her kennel

Cappy wondering just why the HELL this dog is in his house!

Carrie and crew - hope you guys have a blast on your vacation. I know you will! You will be missed around here, but I will take good care of your "baby!"

Day 12

2008-07-01T23:37:00.002-04:00

Today we went to Carrie's house and Haley hung out with Joey and Adam while Mikaela and I went shopping with Miss Carrie and Noah. Mikaela and I went to Tropical Smoothie Cafe for lunch where Mikaela thoroughly enjoyed the banana mommy got with her lunch! Then, we spent 3 hours walking around Kohl's, trying on clothes and finding all kinds of fun things to obsess over that we couldn't afford to buy! :) Then we headed over to the mall where we did more of the same at a few more stores. We shut down the mall and then headed to Kroger to get a few much needed grocery items. Then we headed home and both the kiddos fell asleep in the car on the way home. Mommy is ready to hit the sack too, but couldn't neglect to post the blog first! Here is Mikaela enjoying her banana at Tropical Smoothie Cafe:

Oh yes, I have to also add Mikaela's new trick for today! She was spinning in circles in the kitchen this morning. She thought that was great fun so we did it together before breakfast this morning. She's so cute! :)

Day 11

2008-06-30T21:11:00.003-04:00

Today we went to the YMCA Splash park again. It was a lot of fun! Haley made a friend there so she played with her the entire afternoon. Haley spent most of her time in the big pool, as usual, since it is the warmest! She did spend some time in the splash park and baby pool with sissy though. Speaking of, Mikaela was up to her usual learning a new trick every day! She was jumping off the step in the baby pool into my arms! It was so cute and amazing. She is just so comfortable in the water, it never ceases to amaze me. The first time she did it, she just kind of fell into my arms trying to walk off the step. (Luckily mama was prepared!) So, I taught her to jump into my arms after I said 1, 2, 3, JUMP! She did it over and over and over again. She loved it! Mikaela also cannot seem to go more than an hour without eating something and having some juice. (What a little piggy she is!) So she and I sat in the chairs and had snack at least 3 times while we were there for 2 1/2 hours! Here she is enjoying a cookie:

And here she is at home after all the fun in the sun with sun kissed cheeks!

This morning we had a little "issue" at breakfast time. Mikaela decided she didn't want to wait for mommy to make oatmeal for her - she wanted Cheeze Its for breakfast! I told her we do not eat Cheeze Its for breakfast and she wasn't too happy about that. She threw a fit while I made her oatmeal (mind you I did give her some Gerber Graduate puffs to snack on while she waited) and then happily ate it! After which, I let her have a few Cheeze Its! :)

Day 10

2008-06-29T13:26:00.003-04:00

Today, Mikaela learned yet another new trick! Get up on the couch all by yourself and run around like a crazy baby! haha

Haley is feeling all better, and is out playing with her friends as usual. Thank goodness whatever it was was short lived! Mikaela seems fine today as well. Haley's friend Kasey painted her nails today. Haley loves to have her nails painted!

Boots is enjoying my newly cleaned desk just as much as I am - this is his new favorite place to lay! :)

Day 9

2008-06-28T17:38:00.003-04:00

Today poor little Haley Bug isn't feeling well. She woke up around 9 this morning and just didn't look right and said she was very tired. So I told her to go back to sleep because we didn't have anywhere that we needed to be. She slept until noon! Then she woke up and tried to eat some breakfast (or lunch, however you want to look at it!) She said her stomach was hurting and couldn't finish her breakfast. Her stomach has been hurting her all day and she is very tired, but nothing else. (I take that back - I just took her temperature adn she also has a low grade fever. So does Mikaela! Looks like we have a bug going around the house again!) So, we have just been laying around on the couch watching movies! Here is my poor pitiful Bug watching tv:

Mikaela kept herself busy playing around the house and discovered a new trick; climbing into her basket full of toys! Even though she fell out more than once and hurt herself, she still thinks it is great fun!

Little Miss Expressive

Let's hope Haley (and now looks like Mikaela too) is feeling better tomorrow. :(

Day 8

2008-06-27T15:40:00.008-04:00

Today was another stick close to home day. Mikaela did her usual toddling around the house, playing with her toys, making messes everywhere she goes! She started the day off falling into a door jam which left a pretty nasty bump and bruise on her forehead - poor baby!

Haley was off at the neighbor's house most of the day playing with Chad and Kelly. She even got to go to Subway for lunch with them, which is one of her favorites! Later in the afternoon, Carrie, Joey and Noah came over and Haley and Joey were invited to go bowling with Melissa, Chad and Kelly. They had a great time and then came home for pizza!

Since I was home all day again, today's project was a little counter in our kitchen that was full of junk! It sure feels good to see the end result of getting rid of clutter. :) I'm going to keep posting my work here to keep myself accountable!

Day 7

2008-06-26T18:01:00.004-04:00

Today we stayed home and relaxed. We have had a busy and very tiring past few days! Haley slept in until I woke her up at 11:30 this morning. Of course, Murphy's Law - I had to wake Mikaela up the last few days because we had somewhere to be, but today, when she could have slept as long as she wanted (and therefore, mommy could have slept in also) she woke up promptly at 8:30! Not bad, but I was really tired last night after the beach and didn't get in bed until after midnight and was ready to sleep in! I can tell Mikaela is worn out from the past few days because she has been crankier than usual and very sleepy. So, her and I just took it easy around the house while Haley played with some of her friends.

Mikaela had a hot dog and some watermelon for lunch. A little while later, Haley was having a hot dog. In her usual style, Mikaela walked over to sissy's chair and was begging for food! This is her new thing, she has to have some of what everyone else is having. She is like a little bird going to anyone who has food begging for some with those beautiful blue eyes of hers! So, she had to settle for Cheeze Its and juice for a snack instead, which she thoroughly enjoyed!

Anyone who knows me, knows I am a horribly unorganized person. This leads to a lot of clutter in my house! It's not as bad as I am sure it could because clutter drives Mike (and me, really) batty. Well, since he isn't here to keep me in check, I am trying to take days like this where we are staying home to tackle one area of the house that is cluttered and straighten it up. Today, I tackled my desk. I have to say, it feels pretty good to now have a clean desk! It has been a good long while since this desk has been clean!

before

after

Day 6

2008-06-25T23:37:00.007-04:00

Today was beach day! Me and the girls, Carrie, Noah and Joey headed out to Chicks Beach for a day of fun in the sun (and sand!) Mikaela absolutely loves going to the beach! She will sit and play in the sand for hours. (She also likes to eat sand by the handfuls!) She finds joy in watching the birds and helicopters fly by, and watching the waves go in and out. Oh to be more child like and find joy in the simple things! I buried Mikaela in the sand (one of sissy's favorite activities at the beach!) for the first time today. Her arms and legs were sticking out because she wouldn't quite sit still, but I was amazed that she sat still at all and let me do it! She was pretty tired by that time, so I think that had something to do with it. Mikaela and Noah were fighting back and forth as usual - for some reason those two just can't seem to get along! I guess toddlers/babies and sharing just don't mix so well. To top it off, Mikaela is obsessed with Miss Carrie right now and that doesn't sit too well with Noah! But, they did pretty well. There was no hitting or pushing, so that's good. :)

Haley and Joey threw the football and frisby around a bit in the water and did some swimming, but mostly Haley was intently playing in the sand. All four kids were working on digging a hole with a trench leading to it to fill it with water. Mikaela and Noah thought it was fun to sit and play in the the hole filled with water! A little after that, a boy started playing with Haley and Joey that she didn't really care for, so she spent most of her time playing by herself or with sissy! She also shared a snack with Noah on her towel and got a back rub from sissy!

Miss Carrie was off chasing Noah all over the beach most of the day, so I didn't really get much adult conversation in today, but it sure was fun! I enjoyed watching the kids play and have a good time! I always find it soothing to spend the day at the beach, no matter how tired we all are when we leave! Speaking of, Mikaela and Noah were passed out in the car within 5 minutes on the way home!!

Day 5

2008-06-24T17:21:00.004-04:00

Today we went to the Splash Park and Outdoor Aquatic Center at the YMCA with our friends and neighbors Melissa, Kelly and Chad. Haley, Kelly and Chad spent most of the time in the big pool because it is the warmest of all the water, surprisingly enough! They did enjoy the splash park on several occasions as well and made sure to hit each and every water spot in follow the leader (aka, Chad!) style. Mikaela and I spent a short time in the big pool and Mikaela kept trying to swim to Haley to give her hugs. It's so cute. Mikaela is very comfortable in the water! She knows to shut her mouth, kicks her feet and puts her arms out. She has even blown bubbles in the water! It's quite amazing actually. I am going to see if the Y has mommy & me swim lessons because she is definitely ready!

Mikaela spent a little time in the baby pool and a little time in the splash park, but mostly, she likes to climb on the chairs and walk around and get into everyone's stuff! (Usually, stuff that isn't even ours!) She went from Haley to Chad, and finally to Kelly begging for food. She was able to get about half of sissy's banana and a slice of Kelly's apple. (As Mikaela climbed into Kelly's chair Kelly said the cutest thing ever! She said, "Me and Haley love Mikaela." So sweet!) Unfortunately, all 3 kids were eating some type of peanut butter cracker at some time which she was not allowed to have. This left her standing in from of them shaking her head yes vigorously!! She is so darn cute. She also polished off a bag of cheese nips, had some animal crackers and juice and then insisted on having some of mommy's water as well. It was a super fun day and it couldn't have been more gorgeous! I just enjoyed having some adult conversation with Melissa! :)

I had to add this to the blog! Haley was outside in the garage playing with her friend Kasey and she came in and said, "Me pretty!" all silly! I look up and this is what I see! haha This kid is too silly!

Day 4

2008-06-23T12:37:00.004-04:00

Today, Haley had her every 6 month dental check up and cleaning - her favorite! She looks forward to going to the dentist so much. She loves to have her teeth cleaned and, of course, picking out a treasure from the treasure box at the end and getting a new toothbrush and floss! Mikaela was not so sure about sitting still in the stroller the entire time, but she did pretty good! I kept her occupied with my keys (it's usually a big no no to have mommy's keys!) and lotion. Although she was very interested as to just what they were doing to her sissy in that big black chair! She also found it funny that the big black chair went up and down. :) Haley was the perfect patient as always and was told by Erica, our dental hygienist, that she was doing an awesome job keeping her teeth clean and that she was still cavity free! Since she was cavity free, she became a part of Dr. Midgette's (her dentist) new Smile Club. She got a blue bracelet that says "Dr. Midgette's Smile Club" and her picture taken and put on the Smile Club wall. Every time we go, they always rave about what a great job she is doing taking care of her teeth! After she got the melon flavored fluoride painted on her teeth, she got to pick a prize from the treasure box. She chose a blue and pink large bouncy ball. She got a pink and purple Sponge Bob (it was either Sponge Bob or Shrek - neither were really that appealing to her, but since Sponge Bob was pink, it won!) tooth brush and they gave Mikaela a pink toothbrush with lady bugs on it as well! Now, she just needs to get some teeth! ;)

"What??? You expect me to just sit here in the stroller the entire time?!"

"Ok, but I am going to eat your keys!"

Day 3

2008-06-22T19:38:00.000-04:00

Today we went outside to blow bubbles and went to 7-11 for slurpies! About a month ago I bought Mikaela this little tiger that blows bubbles automatically, but had yet to put batteries in it. Mikaela was having kind of a cranky/drive mommy batty day (i.e: pull all the laundry out of the basket while mommy is trying to fold it or just unfold all the clothes she has already folded!) so I decided she needed to go outside and have some fun and what's more fun for babies than BUBBLES! So I juiced up the tiger and out we went. Alas, the tiger is a piece of junk that doesn't blow bubbles at all! So I got out the old fashioned bubbles and wand. Mikaela thought they were pretty neat, but she thought trying to climb the brick steps to the back porch was more fun. So, a lot of the time it was me pulling Mikaela off the steps and back out into the yard!

Haley and her friend had wanted to go to 7-11 for slurpies, so off we went to go get those. I almost made Haley get a small, but she really wanted a medium so I said fine, even though I just knew she wouldn't drink it all! Well, I guess she really wanted to prove me wrong because she drank every last bit and loved it! I think sometimes I just forget how big she is getting. She looks so grown up in today's pictures. Then Haley and her friends went over to the neighbor's house and had a balloon fight. Turned out to be a pretty good day for Haley! She is still outside playing. Mikaela is down for a nap and I hope she sleeps for a very long time! Mommy needs a break, and is actually enjoying a beer as she types this!

Well, wouldn't you know that no sooner than I finished publishing this blog, that little stinker woke up! Not even an hour did she give me. Oh well, she has had dinner and is now back in sissy's room annoying her! :D It's 9 o'clock and I am just finishing up dinner for Haley and I. It's just been one of those days!

Day 2

2008-06-21T15:35:00.000-04:00

Today is instant messaging with daddy! We are fortunate enough to be able to communicate with Mike via instant message when the time difference allows us both to be available. Today, Haley had her first instant message session with daddy! She was so cute and so excited about it. She instant messages with her best friend, Kylie (who moved to Florida last year) all the time on Toon Town and Webkinz. Here is how it went:

Excitedly typing to daddy

Intently reading what daddy had to say

Thinking hard about what to say back

"I love you Daddy. I miss you!"

Whatcha doin' sissy?

I want to type to daddy too!

Now where is that I?

Wow, this is fun!

It's nice to know that we can still keep in close contact even when we are on opposites sides of the world!

For now, Mikaela is sleeping and Haley is playing with the neighbor, Kelly. We are heading over to Carrie's house tonight so I am off to shower while the Pickle Princess, Mikaela, is sleeping!

Day 1

2008-06-20T23:06:00.000-04:00

What could be a more perfect afternoon snack on the first day of summer than watermelon?! Today we cut up our watermelon and headed outside! Haley has loved watermelon forever, and Mikaela is following along in her big sister's footsteps. In fact, Mikaela loves watermelon so much that she had some of her watermelon and some of sissy's!

The 94 Days of Summer 2008

2008-06-19T23:06:00.000-04:00

Tomorrow marks the first day of summer 2008, a summer that my girls will be spending without their daddy, and that I will be spending without my wonderful, fabulous, sexy husband! While he is on deployment in Kuwait this summer, this blog will be filled daily with pictures so he can live the moments with us. So, this blog is dedicated to you, Mike. We love and miss you more than words can say and wish you were here to be a part of the memories. Hopefully seeing a daily picture or so will make it easier!