Rich - the BEST brother-in-law EVER

So my cell phone rings tonight and I see that it's my brother in law Rich calling. I know he is in FL at Yankees fantasy camp so I answer the phone hoping he is all in one piece. He is - thank God - but that is not the news. The news is that Tino Martinez was the dinner guest this evening and each person in attendance got to meet him and have 2 items signed. Rich had his bat signed and a baseball FOR ME!!!! Yes, TO ME personally. I am SO thrilled I can hardly wait for him to come home. Of course I had to ask how he looked and Rich assured me he was handsome and fit as ever. What other brother in law would do those things?

I love that man ;)

Liars!

We woke up this morning to NO SNOW. Not even a flurry. Steve got a call to go in for 5:30 am, and he did. FOR NO GOOD REASON. David was so disappointed. I guess I was kind of happy because I did not have to deal with slush and bad drivers on my commute. I just wish if the weather man says it's going to snow and it doesn't he be held accountable. If I told my boss that we were having a meeting in Newark on Tuesday and he drove up there and the meeting was in Somerset I would be in trouble. Ya get where I am going with this???

One step closer

The NY Football Giants are one step closer to the Superbowl! They beat the Dallas Cowboys today and will play the Green Bay Packers next weekend. If they beat the Pack - it's off to AZ! Let's go Giants...

Right before the game started, Holly put some honey caramel highlights in my hair. They look awesome! Holly is great. Not only with hair, but as a person. She reminds me a lot of myself when I first met Steve. I think she is the one for John. I am so happy for the both of them.

Last night Jen threw Mark a surprise 3oth birthday party at my Aunt and Uncle's house. I took the kids, but Steve could not go - he had to work. The party was great. Mark was SO surprised. Plus, the Pats won & he's a big fan, so that was a huge plus. Mark and Jen's friends were great - they loved playing with the kids. Their next big event is the birth of the baby - I know I can't wait!

Well, tonight's rumor is snow. If it snows, it better be enough to keep me home with the kids:)

TGIF!

I was PAIN FREE today!! I can not tell you how happy that makes me. I guess the Topamax is doing it's job. My only gripe is that I just do not feel like myself. I feel a tad off my game and by the time I got home from work I was nauseous and exhausted. I wonder if those are side effects?

Steve dealt David a serious blow tonight when he took away his Wii -YIKES! It all started when it was time for pizza and David would not come into the kitchen. He was warned that the Wii was at risk and he still ignored us. So, Steve marched into the den and away went the Wii. I agree that he needs to be taught a lesson and to know we are no joke, but my heart did break for the little addict ;)

Second Opinion

I was sitting at my desk on Tuesday when I felt a pain in my right cheek. As the day went on, it got worse. I took some Advil, but is gave me no relief. So, I called my doctor and was given an appointment for after work. At the appointment we discussed a few things, mainly the pain in my face. One of the other topics was my migraine headaches. He upped my Imitrex dosage and called in into my pharmacy. As for the pain, he thought I could have one of my famous sinus infections or trigeminal neuralgia. As always, the pain had subsided when I was in his office. The plan was for me to call him if it occured again. That night I felt fine. We took Steve out for his birthday and all was good. Yesterday morning, however, I felt worse than I had on Tuesday. So, on my way into work, I called my Dr. back. Over the phone he diagnosed me with trigeminal neuralgia and called topomax and vicodin into the pharmacy. I could not wait to take the pain meds because I was in SO much pain. My co-worker thought I was going to jump out a window. The topomax is a preventative drug that he has me taking before bed. I took the pain pills with my lunch and after about a half hour, I felt better. Only problem was, I felt sick to my stomach and jittery. When I got home, I was so tired I passed out on the couch. The pain never came back last night and I took the topomax before bed. This morning I woke up fine, brushed my teeth and took a shower feeling fine. The pain started again while I was getting ready for work. Specifically after fixing my hair. When I got into the office, I called and made a dentist appointment. Basically to rule out TMJ and teeth issues. As I write to you now, I am in horrible pain. I am debating whether or not to take the pain meds. I know the pain will subside, but do I really want the side effects? I am also a nervous wreck. According to the information I found online, this condition is a potential sign of MS, a tumor or an aneurysm. I asked my doctor if I could see a nuerologist, but he wants to wait a week to see how I do on the topomax. I am not patient. I hate waiting. I need to know things now.

**UPDATE: Went to the dentist. He found that my jaw muscles are spazzing however, there is nothing wrong dentally. Whatever is going on with my nerve is causing my jaw muscle to spaz. UGH!!

Great Giveaway!

A Cowboy’s Wife is having a contest on her food blog! You can win a Hamilton Beach® Stand Mixer and she’ll ship anywhere so everyone is eligible!
The Prize:
The winner will receive a brand new Hamilton Beach 4.5-qt. Eclectrics Stand Mixer, Pineapple Yellow!!
About the mixer:
From Hamilton Beach’s “Eclectrics” line, this all-metal stand mixer comes with a host of accessories - a Flat Beater for cakes and cookies, a Dough Hook for bread and a Wire Whisk for whipped cream or pudding. The 4.5-qt. stainless steel bowl comes with a Pouring Shield that helps prevent splattering while in operation. The pouring shield has a built-in chute for adding ingredients. Powered by 400 watts, the stand mixer has a two-way mixing action to ensure all ingredients are incorporated into the mix. The quick-release, tilt-up head assists when removing the bowl. 9 x 14 x 14-in. When you’re ready for a kitchen re-do, don’t call in the carpenters! Instead, “counterscape” your kitchen with Hamilton Beach’s retro-designed, affordably priced electrics in happy, sun-saturated colors. Their “Eclectrics” line includes updates to those classic appliances from the 1950s. All of their “Eclectrics” are available in six colors: Apple Green, Moroccan Red, Pineapple Yellow, Intrigue Blue, Sugar White and Licorice Black.

Photos of Steve's B'day

Steve and the kid opening presents
David enjoying his rootbeer

One of Steve's gifts

jerseyscrapper

Click here to see my scrapping blog!

Adding on

I have been inspired to start a scrapping blog. I hope to start it this week. It will consist of photos of pages (digital and traditional) I have completed, hints and tips and other scrapping info. I sure hope you'll visit me there....

Memory keeping makes people smile....

Happy 35th to my Hubby!!

Today is Steve's 35th Birthday. We are going out to Outback Steakhouse for dinner later to celebrate. He loves Outback as does David - so hopefully we can get David to actually EAT dinner. The kids and I picked him up some cute cards and gifts. I wanted to stop after work and pick up one more thing - hopefully I'll have time. I still remember Steve's 23rd birthday like it was yesterday. That was the first birthday he celebrated after we started dating. He is as cute today as he was 12 years ago.

Happy Birthday Babe!

I love you.

Ava's 1st Hair Cut

Sunday after my cousin Jen's baby shower, Holly came over to give Ava her first trim. Holly, for those of you that do not know, is my cousin John's girlfriend. She is also a very talented hair stylist. She was kind enough to offer her services to Ava. When we arrived back at my house, Ava was napping. Holly asked me if I wanted my haircut and I said 'Sure'. I showed her a few pictures from back in 2004 of when I had a shorter style and after a few minutes - she knew just what she was going to do. After she was done cutting, it looked as though there was a small dead animal on my floor - but the cut was great! We even checked it out with 2 mirrors so I could see the back. Ava woke up even before Holly was done with my hair, so we plopped her on my lap right away. Poor Holly had to deal with Ava being VERY uncooperative, but in the end - trimmed her up nice. Here are some photos to show you how we look...

Is it true?

Thank you Mrs. Parker for this one...

AUGUST: Loves to joke. Absolutley. Attractive. That's what I have been told. Suave and caring. Caring, yes. Suave - not so sure. Brave and fearless. Brave at times, not fearless. Firm and has leadership qualities. Firm when I need to be and love to be a leader! Knows how to console others. Yes. Too generous and egoistic. Very generous, i do not think I am selfish at all. Takes high pride in oneself. Yes. Thirsty for praises. Like being told I did a good thing. Extraordinary spirit. Feel I have a good spirit most of the time. Easily angered. Yes, just ask Steve and the kids. Angry when provoked. You bet. Easily jealous. That used to be true. Not so much anymore, but on occasion. Observant. Ridiculously so. Careful and cautious. You know it and it drives Steve crazy. Thinks quickly. Yup. Independent thoughts. YES! Loves to lead and to be led. Lead yes, led no. Loves to dream. So many dreams, so little time. Talented in the arts, music and defense. Does Karaoke and Scrapbooking count? Sensitive but not petty. Agree. Poor resistance against illnesses. OMG, so true. I get everything the kids get. Learns to relax. Completely false. Hasty and trusty. Yes and yes. Romantic. I think so. Loving and caring. Yup and Yup - almost too much. Loves to make friends. Everyday ;)

What does your birth month say about you? It is accurate?

JANUARY: Stubborn and hard-hearted. Ambitious and serious. Loves to teach and be taught. Always looking at people’s flaws and weaknesses. Likes to criticize. Hardworking and productive. Smart, neat and organized. Sensitive and has deep thoughts. Knows how to make others happy. Quiet unless excited or tensed. Rather reserved. Highly attentive. Resistant to illnesses but prone to colds. Romantic but has difficulties expressing love. Loves children. Loyal. Has great social abilities yet easily jealous. Very stubborn and money cautious.

FEBRUARY: Abstract thoughts. Loves reality and abstract. Intelligent and clever. Changing personality. Attractive. Sexy. Temperamental. Quiet, shy and humble. Honest and loyal. Determined to reach goals. Loves freedom. Rebellious when restricted. Loves aggressiveness. Too sensitive and easily hurt. Gets angry really easily but does not show it. Dislikes unnecessary things. Loves making friends but rarely shows it. Daring and stubborn. Ambitious. Realizes dreams and hopes. Sharp. Loves entertainment and leisure. Romantic on the inside not outside. Superstitious and ludicrous. Spendthrift. Tries to learn to show emotions.

MARCH: Attractive personality. Sexy. Affectionate. Shy and reserved. Secretive. Naturally honest, generous and sympathetic. Loves peace and serenity. Sensitive to others. Loves to serve others. Easily angered. Trustworthy. Appreciative and returns kindness. Observant and assesses others. Revengeful. Loves to dream and fantasize. Loves traveling. Loves attention. Hasty decisions in choosing partners. Loves home decors. Musically talented. Loves special things. Moody.

APRIL: Active and dynamic. Decisive and hasty but tends to regret. Attractive and affectionate to oneself. Strong mentality. Loves attention. Diplomatic. Consoling, friendly and solves people’s problems. Brave and fearless. Adventurous. Loving and caring. Suave and generous. Emotional. Aggressive. Hasty. Good memory. Moving. Motivates oneself and others. Sickness usually of the head and chest. Sexy in a way that only their lover can see.

MAY: Stubborn and hard-hearted. Strong-willed and highly motivated. Sharp thoughts. Easily angered. Attracts others and loves attention. Deep feelings. Beautiful physically and mentally. Firm Standpoint. Needs no motivation. Easily consoled. Systematic (left brain). Loves to dream. Strong clairvoyance. Understanding. Sickness usually in the ear and neck. Good imagination. Good physical. Weak breathing. Loves literature and the arts. Loves traveling. Dislike being at home. Restless. Not having many children. Hardworking. High spirited. Spendthrift.

JUNE: Thinks far with vision. Easily influenced by kindness. Polite and soft-spoken. Having ideas. Sensitive. Active mind. Hesitating, tends to delay. Choosy and always wants the best. Temperamental. Funny and humorous. Loves to joke. Good debating skills. Talkative. Daydreamer. Friendly. Knows how to make friends. Able to show character. Easily hurt. Prone to getting colds. Loves to dress up. Easily bored. Fussy. Seldom shows emotions. Takes time to recover when hurt. Brand conscious. Executive. Stubborn.

JULY: Fun to be with. Secretive. Difficult to fathom and to be understood. Quiet unless excited or tensed. Takes pride in oneself. Has reputation. Easily consoled. Honest. Concerned about people’s feelings. Tactful. Friendly. Approachable. Emotional temperamental and unpredictable. Moody and easily hurt. Witty and sparkly. Not revengeful. Forgiving but never forgets. Dislikes nonsensical and unnecessary things. Guides others physically and mentally. Sensitive and forms impressions carefully. Caring and loving. Treats others equally. Strong sense of sympathy. Wary and sharp. Judges people through observations. Hardworking. No difficulties in studying. Loves to be alone. Always broods about the past and the old friends. Likes to be quiet. Homely person. Waits for friends. Never looks for friends. Not aggressive unless provoked. Prone to having stomach and dieting problems. Loves to be loved. Easily hurt but takes long to recover.

AUGUST: Loves to joke. Attractive. Suave and caring. Brave and fearless. Firm and has leadership qualities. Knows how to console others. Too generous and egoistic. Takes high pride in oneself. Thirsty for praises. Extraordinary spirit. Easily angered. Angry when provoked. Easily jealous. Observant. Careful and cautious. Thinks quickly. Independent thoughts. Loves to lead and to be led. Loves to dream. Talented in the arts, music and defense. Sensitive but not petty. Poor resistance against illnesses. Learns to relax. Hasty and trusty. Romantic. Loving and caring. Loves to make friends.

SEPTEMBER: Suave and compromising. Careful, cautious and organized. Likes to point out people’s mistakes. Likes to criticize. Stubborn. Quiet but able to talk well. Calm and cool. Kind and sympathetic. Concerned and detailed. Loyal but not always honest. Does work well. Very confident. Sensitive. Good memory. Clever and knowledgeable. Loves to look for information. Must control oneself when criticizing. Able to motivate oneself. Understanding. Fun to be around. Secretive. Loves leisure and traveling. Hardly shows emotions. Tends to bottle up feelings. Very choosy, especially in relationships. Systematic.

OCTOBER: Loves to chat. Loves those who loves them. Loves to take things at the center. Inner and physical beauty. Lies but doesn’t pretend. Gets angry often. Treats friends importantly. Always making friends. Easily hurt but recovers easily. Daydreamer. Opinionated. Does not care of what others think. Emotional. Decisive. Strong clairvoyance. Loves to travel, the arts and literature. Touchy and easily jealous. Concerned. Loves outdoors. Just and fair. Spendthrift. Easily influenced. Easily loses confidence. Loves children.

NOVEMBER: Has a lot of ideas. Difficult to fathom. Thinks forward. Unique and brilliant. Extraordinary ideas. Sharp thinking. Fine and strong clairvoyance. Can become good doctors. Dynamic in personality. Secretive. Inquisitive. Knows how to dig secrets. Always thinking. Less talkative but amiable. Brave and generous. Patient. Stubborn and hard-hearted. If there is a will, there is a way. Determined. Never give up. Hardly becomes angry unless provoked. Loves to be alone. Thinks differently from others. Sharp-minded. Motivates oneself. Does not appreciate praises. High-spirited. Well-built and tough. Deep love and emotions. Romantic. Uncertain in relationships. Homely. Hardworking. High abilities. Trustworthy. Honest and keeps secrets. Not able to control emotions. Unpredictable.

DECEMBER: Loyal and generous. Sexy. Patriotic. Active in games and interactions. Impatient and hasty. Ambitious. Influential in organizations. Fun to be with. Loves to socialize. Loves praises. Loves attention. Loves to be loved. Honest and trustworthy. Not pretending. Short tempered. Changing personality. Not egotistic. Take high pride in oneself. Hates restrictions. Loves to joke. Good sense of humor. Logical.

I resolve to...

1. Lose 20 pounds
2. Exercise 4 days a week
3. Build my Creative Memories business
4. Clean out the basement
5. Cook more
6. Spend less
7. Enjoy life

These are 7 personal resolutions that I really want to do in 2008. What are yours?

Happy 2008!

I sure hope you had a great New Year's and are enjoying the start of 2008. The end of 2007 was rough for our family. From the middle of December on, we were all some sort of sick. David had an ear infection, I had what I think was the flu, Ava had walking pneumonia and Steve had a virus. We all seem to be on the mend. I take the kids back to the doctor tomorrow for their re-checks.

Having said all that, Christmas was almost cancelled! Thanks to Steve, we went on with the show. Steve spent Christmas Eve food shopping, cleaning and cooking. He literally saved Christmas. Everyone that ate dinner at our house raved about his meatballs, sausage and lasagna. I was so sick, I had to wait to enjoy them as left overs. They were just as good a few days later.

The kids had a great holiday. David got everything on his list and then some. Ava did well also, but is still too young to really get excited. David has been playing with all his gifts, especially the Wii. Steve and I also enjoy it. The sports games are a blast. Ava has been enjoying her MP3 player and babies. She is a true girl. It's a lot of fun to watch the kids play together, they are really enjoying each other.

Saturday we went to PA to celebrate Christmas with Tray, Rich and the kids. I love giving gifts more than receiving - especially with Tray and the kids. The kids loved the stuff we got them. Ty was thrilled with his scrapbook. He wanted to scrap right away! Tracey liked all her stuff too. She is planning a day of pamering! Steve and I got a beautiful blanket with a picture of the 4 kids on it. We love it. Rich presented Steve with his fantasy football winnings. Steve was very excited and looking forward to next season. Tracey cooked a delicious dinner and then we headed back to NJ. I really wish we lived closer.

We spent New Year's Eve with Laurie, Walter and Tom again this year. We ate dinner at the Olive Garden and went back to our house for coffee. The kids had a blast playing and the adults enjoyed the company. I thoroughly enjoy spending time with Laurie. She always makes me laugh and lets me vent. They left about 9 pm and I fell fast asleep on the couch. I woke up about 20 to 12 and saw the ball drop - then back to bed for me. New Year's Day we had breakfast at the diner, ran some errands and took down the tree. It was a nice enjoyable day off.

Jackie is at the house today for watching the kids while my parents are in FL. She has them again tomorrow and Friday it's my Grandparents turn. I know the kids are having fun with her. She is a real sweetheart.

Alright, well, that's all for now. Enjoy the New Year!

Only 1 month

Yes, that's right - it's been a month since I posted. Life has gotten in the way. Where do I begin?

Well, Ava turned 1 on 11/11/07 and she had a beautiful party in our new kitchen! My mom bought her a gorgeous party dress that she had on for about 15 minutes. She did seem to enjoy her guests and her party.

Most of the month of November someone was sick. Ava had ear infections, bronchitis and a sinus infection. Steve and I also had sinus infections. Thanks to the brutally cold weather.

Thanksgiving was fun. Aunt Mary cooked us a great dinner at her house. We ate like kings. I always enjoy catching up with my cousins. This year Chris and his girlfriend Julie were there. She is a sweet heart. We had a good time. That evening we spent at Aunt Carol's. We had our Kenny grab bag name drawing and ate WAY too much dessert.

Last week David had some teeth issues. He had an abcess that the dentist tried to fix, but ended up at the oral surgeon having to remove the tooth. He was such an angel - we're very proud of him.

Saturday I hosted a Crop n Shop that did not turn out so well. At least I got to scrap with my friends Jean and Laurie. That night Steve and I went to dinner with Laurie and Walt and had quite the experience. Steve found a silverfish bug IN his paella! So gross! Through it all we did have lot of laughs and fun. Sunday we took a day trip to Tracey & Rich's for the Giants vs Eagles game. The kids enjoyed themselves and Rich and Steve were glued to the laptop. They won their fantasy match up. Tray and I got to chat - it was a real nice visit.

Well, that is all for now. Happy Shopping!

You say it's your birthday?

This past weekend I spent running around trying to get some things done for Ava's 1 year old birthday party. I was able to get some cool prizes and party ware. I am going with a purple butterfly theme. Wondering where I got this cool stuff? The Dollar Tree! I started off at Target and was extremely disappointed in their selection. Then, I was about to hit up a party supply store when I remembered hearing my mother say she got some great stuff at The Dollar Tree recently. What a great deal I got - 20 butterfly plates for $1 and matching accessories. Target wanted $1.99 for 8 plates and I did not even like their patterns. Needless to say, I was very pleased with my purchase.

So, this weekend is the big 1 year bash. I have to admit, I am shocked to realize a whole year has gone by, but at the same time, it feels like she was always with us. Overall, she is a great baby girl - although she has her drama mama moments. I love her sweet little smile, her cute little voice and her beautiful face. I love how she cuddles up to me for her bottles and how excited she is to see me. I love and admire how she has no fear. Most of all, I love watching her with David. She absolutely adores him. He can do wrong, even when he knocks her down. I am so thankful for her.

I'll let you know how her party goes and post some birthday pix.

Happy 1st Birthday Ava - we love you!

Happy Halloween!

We dressed up on Sunday for my cousin Katie's Homecoming Halloween Booffet. It was so good to see her. She looks awesome as always - she is so beautiful. She is doing very well in CA and Josh is too. They will be coming home for Xmas and I am thrilled about that. We miss them.




David and I were party animals this past weekend. Aside from Katie's party, David went to 2 birthday parties. Saturday was Christopher's Halloween party and Sunday was Ryan's karate party. Steve and I snuck in a 40th Birthday party Saturday evening for my friend Therese's husband John. We were busy, but we sure had fun!

David really liked Karate so I have decided to sign him up. He had a one on one session on Monday and has a class session this coming Monday. He looks so cute in his uniform. It is not cheap to attend, so I am asking for it for Xmas. He certainly does not need more toys!


Our kitchen furniture was delivered yesterday and I LOVE IT! David was so excited to eat at a table - how funny is that? I just want to get some cushions for the chairs.

Well, I hope you have a very Happy and Safe Halloween!

BOO!

Much needed vacation

We're back! My husband and I took a much needed trip to Cancun, Mexico Friday Oct. 12 to Tuesday Oct. 16. We stayed at the Riu Palace Las Americas - an all inclusive resort. The place was unbelievable. Absolutely gorgeous and VERY clean. The food and the restaurants were spectacular. We had fantastic weather and spent most of our time relaxing by the ocean. The pools were cool too - the kind that look like they keep going. They had a swim up bar and plenty of other bars. I drank quite a few margaritas, pina coladas and daquiri's. Steve stuck with Corona and lime. We met a really nice couple - Jenn and Chris - and spent a lot of our time with them. They live in New Foundland, Canada and have 3 adorable children. We exchanged email addresses and hope we can see them again. They were a lot of fun. Our last night there, we watched the Michael Jackson show and it was awesome. The impersonator was a dead on match. He could sing, dance and talk JUST like him. I had so much fun.

Our vacation was great and we can't wait to do it again, but we did miss our kids. I know they missed us too, which is nice to see.

It's beautiful!

Our countertop is in and we love it. It is so pretty - pictures don't do it justice. It needs to be seen in person to appreciate how gorgeous it is! Steve spent the whole day hooking up the water and the garbage disposal. He hopes to have the disposal and the dishwasher working tonight.

Steve and I are off to Cancun tomorrow morning ;) We are SO looking forward to it. Part of me feels guilty leaving David behind because he keeps asking to join us. The rest of me knows I need a break. My parents have a whole bunch of cool things planned for the kids, so I know he'll enjoy his time without us.

Talk to you when we return - ADIOS!


Drawer pulls

Cabinet base molding

New valance #1

New storm door

New valance #2 & new clock

COUNTERTOP!

Desk

Specialty Cabinet

Faucet & sink

The wait is almost over....

tomorrow between 9 am and 11 am, the countertop company will be installing our new Corian countertop!!!!! Do you think I am excited????????

No award this year either

This past weekend, Ava was up during the night. Then again Tuesday night. For hours! SCREAMING! All along I was attributing this to her top teeth. Well, I was WRONG. She has a severe right ear infection, asthma and possible croup. Yes, I said CROUP. According to our pediatrician, it's 'going around'. She is on anti-biotic for the ear infection and using the nebulizer machine for her cough. As of today, she is doing much better. She only woke up once Wed night, but Tylenol worked. Last night, she slept like a baby. Needless to say, I will not be getting that Mother of the Year award again this year. UGH :)

On a good mommy note, I did carve David a jack o' latern and he loves it.

For a good cause

We've been working non-stop on the kitchen, so we deserved a weekend off.

Saturday morning, my Mom and I walked in the Memory Walk in Pt. Pleasant. It was a beautiful day and it felt great to be out exercising. I learned of the walk through my Creative Memories business, but I do it in memory of my Nana. She passed away on December 23, 2005 after a long battle with Alzheimer's. This year I raised $525 for research. I am very proud of that. Alzheimer's is a terrible disease for the people that suffer from it and for the people that watch their loved ones suffer from it. If you would like to donate, please click on the link above.

When I got home, we took the kids for some pizza because I was starving! Once we got home, I took the kids outside to enjoy the beautiful day. David had a great time running around and jumping in the leaves. Ava was in her glory watching David and trying to eat the leaves. Steve broke out the new blower I bought him and made our lawn leaf-free. The Rutgers game came on at 3:30 pm, so we went in side to watch them lose. They looked AWFUL! I was so annoyed with watching them lose, that I started cleaning. I could not take all the dust anymore so I windexed everything I could get my hands on. I went to bed feeling a bit of accomplishment.

Sunday was another gorgeous day - thank God - because Ava did not sleep well Saturday night and I was not happy. Her top 2 teeth are on their way down. She was up at 3:00 am and wanted to play. I did not. Anyhow, after the sun came up I went to the bagel store and picked up some coffee, hot chocolate, strawberry milk and 2 pork roll, egg and cheese sandwiches. Steve was having a melt down when I got home attempting to finish the Pergo floor so the coffee helped. I decided to do a tad more cleaning - toilets, sinks, floors - and then it was time for Football. I LOVE my football. My cousin John came over to watch the games with us which was a treat. I made some appetizers, Steve got some beers and we were all set. By the end of the day, I had a SPLITTING headache. Ava did not help matters by waking up an hour after I put her down for the night and screaming her head off. Lucky for me, I have a terrific husband that took care of her so I could go to sleep before my head exploded.

After work on Monday, I decided to clean some more and start to put the house back together. Steve put all the knobs on the cabinet doors and cooked dinner. The kids went to bed and stayed asleep and I got some much needed rest. Unfortunately, I did not get a Fantasy Football win. UGH!

Deadline

With the countertop people coming Friday, we have a deadline to meet! Steve was busy spackling, sanding and painting the new addition to the kitchen yesterday. He also put up the light in the working kitchen area. Enjoy these pix!

ceiling and trim done, 1st coat of paint on the walls

new light fixture in working kitchen

pantry open

Light at the end of the Tunnel

We are having the countertop templated on Friday!! I can not tell you how excited am I about it. I thought we'd never get to this point. Not quite sure how long it takes to make and install the countertop once it is templated, but I will be asking that question on Friday.

Here are some photos of what got done this past weekend:

All the way from AZ!

Mike and Laura-Ann were in NJ this weekend to attend her cousin Kristina's wedding on Friday evening. Laura-Ann's parents, Tony & Anna, were kind enough to have our crazy family over to visit with them. As always, they threw a lovely party. The food was great as was the company. Mike and Laur look fantastic. AZ is really agreeing with them. They seem overly happy. David was very happy to see them. Ava was too, even if you couldn't tell. The kids also had plenty of playmates. Rosaleen was there and Laura-Ann's friend Cara brought her daughter Lucia and her son Ace. The kids ran crazy having a blast. I wish I had some more time to spend with them, but they will be home for Christmas - which will be here before you know it. I miss them already!

Clean bill of health

My Mom underwent surgery this morning to remove some cancerous cells from her tongue. I got the call from my Dad right before lunch that she got an 'All Clear' from the doctor! No more cancerous cells!

Thank you to everyone who was praying for my Mom.

Mom, I am so glad you are ok - I love you!

Kitchen Photos

The fridge and side panels

The stove and microwave

The pantry

Now we're cookin'

The oven and microwave have been installed and are in working order! WOO HOO! Steve worked hard on Saturday on the 'little things' like hooking up the water line to the fridge for the ice maker, venting the microwave oven and setting up the gas lines and shut off for the oven. He made himself a Jimmy Dean sausage sandwich in the microwave and it was great. He also set up the pantry - it's BIG, but it's beautiful! I need to take some pictures to post. I plan on picking up some hot dog rolls on my way home tonight so I can actually MAKE dinner instead of ordering it. My pots and pans are still buried and I do not want to put any dishes in the cabinets until the counter-top is in. So, hot dogs on the grill, tater tots in the oven and frozen veggies in the microwave will have to do. I bet we will have a lot more money floating around now that we can cook our food. Money that I can use to shop for a table and china cabinet (from Crate & Barrel)!

Hard at work

Sorry about the lull in my posting. We took a mini vacation and have been working very hard on the kitchen.

For our mini vacation, we went to PA to visit The Yoegel's and my in-laws on the 2nd. My In-Laws came up from FL for a few days and the 2nd was the only day we could get to see them. Tracey invited us over to celebrate Ally's 10th birthday and to spend time with Steve's parents. Tracey threw a nice get together and everyone enjoyed themselves. The next morning we drove to Hershey Park and spent the day with Laurie, Tom and Walt. We had a great time. We slept in a beautiful room at the Hershey Lodge that evening. On Tuesday the 7 of us took in the Hershey Gardens and they were beautiful. After, we got back on the PA turnpike and drove back to Tracey's. Steve was helping Rich draft his fantasy football team that night. David got to pick up Ty and Ally at the bus stop - that made his day. The kids played and enjoyed being together. The guys seem to have fun at the draft. Wednesday, we made our way home to NJ.

This weekend we really made some progress on the kitchen. We have 5 wall cabinets up and 5 base cabinets in. Steve has connected the pipes for the sink and the dishwasher is in place ready for install. Steve was able to get the floor put down in the entire 'working' kitchen area. Some of the walls have been painted. Our fridge comes tomorrow so we plan on putting up the panels and the fridge cabinet tomorrow evening. Here are some pictures:




Football started last week and the much anticipated Giants vs Cowboys game was Sunday night. Unfortunately, the G-Men lost, but the game was good.