better LUCK this time
Monday, July 28, 2008Labels: family matters
My extremely talented brother, Tony, put out his very first cd. I finally got my hands on a copy over the weekend and was so excited for him. I'm so proud of him for deciding to do this on his own and making it happen. The cd sounds awesome and I'm quite proud of the design and pictures. Knight Light is even credited on the cd. Now when he makes it big I can say I designed his first cd.
You can check out Tony here: www.myspace.com/betterluckthistime. Also I have a few cds to sell so if you'd like one let me know. Ten bucks and I'll throw in free shipping!
tristan turns one
Monday, July 07, 2008Labels: family matters
My nephew, Tristan, turns one today. His party was on Saturday with more presents than you can imagine and lots of cake. It was pretty cute during presents. Tristan just walked around and played with the lawn toys while Jill opened his presents.
Kate is getting so grown up. She has lots to talk about and wants to see what everyone is doing. Someone was asking her dad if he had a brother. Kate thought that they were talking to her and just answered "No-ah" (like duh, of course I don't have a brother). She now adds an "ah" at the end of her no's for that extra sass.
The rest of the weekend was really good too. We got to see a parade, bought two vintage cameras at a flea market, got a little tan, ate a whole bunch of food, and saw some awesome fireworks. I definitely enjoyed my weekend "off". No major photo sessions or processing was done. Now it's back to work!
did and did not
Monday, June 23, 2008Things I didn't do this weekend: Labels: family matters, randomness
- Clean my bathrooms.
- Organize the one section of the house left to organize.
- Take pictures for money.
- Do laundry.
- Take my dog on a walk (although we had every intention of doing so).
Things I did do this weekend:
- Sit in a coffee shop with my husband and enjoy a latte.
- Prune our grapevine.
-Enjoy the gorgeous weather. (That is, after our photo session got rained out.)
- Watch my husband with our niece. And yes, my heart melts a little bit each time.
- Was completely mesmerized by niece's eyes. (I can't wait to take her two year pictures in another month.)
It was one of those really random crazy weekends. Good friends, good food, time with both families, lots of relaxing, and some Knight Light work... Whew!
being like my mom
Tuesday, May 13, 2008Last week my mom commented to me about how she didn't think I should worry about if I'll be a good mom. My mom's childhood wasn't a good one and yet she turned out to be an amazing mother. She stopped what could have been a continuing pattern in her family. She said, "Even though I didn't have a very good mom, I never once worried that I wouldn't be a great mom to you and Tony". I told her that it makes perfect sense that I would worry. I have a lot to live up to. Labels: family matters
For as long as I can remember I've wanted to me a mommy. I'm pretty sure it's because as long as I can remember I've wanted to be like my mom. Who wouldn't want to be a geniunely nice person, someone who's kind to strangers, someone who is sensitive and feels others problems, a person that would go out of their way for others, a peacemaker, an awesome cookie maker, a giggler, a Guitar Hero playing Little Momma? I know that I would. Happy Mother's Day, Mom. (A couple days late...) Thanks for being you.
some time with tristan
Monday, March 03, 2008Labels: family matters
I got to see my little nephew, Tristan, on Friday night. I got to feed him and then we played for quite a bit. He'll be eight months old this weekend. I don't get to see him as often as I like so I'm always amazed at how much he's grown. His hair is getting long and he has the sweetest little flip to the side. Don't you just want to nibble on him? So darn cute!!
ornery kate
Wednesday, February 20, 2008Labels: family matters, knight light
A couple weekends ago I shot my niece Kate's 18 month pictures. I knew it would be difficult to work with a small backdrop inside with a one and a half year old. I just didn't count on her to be such a stinker! I don't know that I have one picture of her looking at the camera and very few of her smiling. Usually she knows how to work it for my camera... I just had to laugh when I processed the pictures. She was so ornery!
more of my niece
Friday, January 25, 2008Labels: family matters
Uncle Josh and Aunt Kimmie had fun with Kate last night. We played with everything and said lots of silly things. Josh worked on being that ornery uncle by teaching Kate to say "Beer" after being asked "Whatcha got there?".
She sure knows how to be completely adorable. I was sitting at the computer checking my email and Kate toddled in. I said, "Do you want to sit on my lap?". She lifted her arms up. Aw...love that. And every question we asked her she would reply "Nooo".
I think we tired her out. She crashed on the couch around 9:00 with Bebo curled up at her feet. I love having her at our apartment.
yup, i'm related to this cutie
Tuesday, January 15, 2008Labels: family matters, knight light
My sister-in-law asked if I would take my nephew, Tristan's six month pictures. I set up my makeshift backdrop in my in-law's dining room. I'm really not into the whole backdrop thing. But for 6-month pictures in the middle winter...I didn't have much of a choice. My backdrop is pretty wrinkly and I can't seem to get rid of them. I'll have to do a little photoshopping in some to "iron" them out.
The little guy did really well. Even when Kate, my niece, came in and tried to steal his thunder. I was able to snap a couple pictures of the two together. That was craziness in itself. Kate was all over the place. Not sure what it was about the backdrop but she kept laying on her stomach and kicking her legs. It was almost like she was swimming. I had to stop taking pictures at one point because my eyes were watering so much from laughing.
It's awesome to be an aunt AND the family photographer. I feel pretty special that I get to be the one to capture these moments.
quick recap
Thursday, December 27, 2007Labels: christmas cheer, family matters
Even though I know how fast Christmas flies by, I'm always surprised when it's over. It was a good Christmas though. As usual, I was spoiled. I got a really nice sewing machine! Now I can give my mom back her old one. I'm excited to spend some of the winter months sewing. Josh and I got to spend time with both of our families. It was at times a bit chaotic, but a lot of fun.
My nephew, Tristan is turning into quite the little butterball. So completely adorable! He's already sitting up by himself which will make his six-month pictures even easier next month.
Kate, my niece, was really getting into the whole present thing. Although she usually wanted to help everyone else open their gifts but not do her own.
I was inspired by the Square America photo website to process some of my Christmas pictures that way. View the rest of them on Flickr.
Hope you all had a very happy Christmas!
sure you can use my camera
Thursday, November 29, 2007Labels: family matters, kodachrome
My sister-in-law, Jenna, snapped this picture. She wanted to take a picture with my camera so I said she could take one of me and my nephew, Tristan. Just as she was getting ready to take the picture Tristan made a little noise and then looked right at me. It cracks me up.
Jenna has seemed semi-interested in my camera lately. I'm really hoping she wants to learn more but I'm not pushing it. I'm just waiting for her to come to me. I had to bite my tongue last night because I was getting ready to explain the settings I was using. Shoot, I don't want to scare her off before she really gets into it!
4 day recap
Monday, November 26, 2007My mini Thanksgiving break was very good. I did everything on my list except start crocheting. I think I need to finish up processing photo sessions before I can attempt that again. Josh and I went to his folks for Thanksgiving lunch. My parents were invited to come with us so that was really nice. Labels: christmas cheer, family matters
We played with our niece and nephew which is always fun. The dynamic of the family has changed so much, now that there is two little ones. Christmas should be a lot of fun.
We ate yummy food and pie.
We played a couple games including one called "You're an Idiot". It involves answering questions and labeling others as "an idiot". At one point during the game Josh's brother-in-law called Josh's mom an idiot. I informed him that never under any circumstances (even a game) should you call your mother-in-law an idiot.
It was a good day spending time with Josh's family.
Friday night Josh and I got all of our Christmas decorations from my parent's basement. I wasn't sure if I would have the motivation to start decorating but I ended up doing it all. It's easier now because I have places for everything and know where I want to put things. Of course, decorating was finally a snap this year in what I hope is the last Christmas in the apartment.
I love the coziness of the apartment right now. With the candles all lit and the white Christmas lights on, you can hardly tell how junky the apartment is. We love being in the living room now. Josh and I watched Love Actually, Elf and The Holiday throughout the weekend. I figured I should start my Christmas movie watching early because last year I ran out of time.
Yesterday we put the ornaments on the tree which was the last bit of decorating to do. I wrapped a bunch of presents and worked on a Senior photo session. It was hard to accept that my break was over but now I can really start looking forward to Christmas!
a little guy
Tuesday, October 16, 2007Labels: family matters, knight light
I took my nephew's three month pictures on Sunday. It's hard to believe that Tristan is already three months old. He is getting so big and completely adorable.
I decided that three months is probably the hardest for doing baby pictures. With newborns you can do what you want with them...move them around and they'll sleep through most of it. By six months they'll sit up for a bit and laugh like crazy. But at three months, they're just starting to smile when you do silly things and they can't sit by themselves. It makes things way more difficult! Luckily I was able to get a few good pictures...
recap
Monday, October 01, 2007Labels: family matters, knight light
Our Friday night babysitting went really well! Kate didn't even cry when her Mom and Dad left. We played all night and Bebo actually did really well. I think he mostly just wanted her to chase him. She did play ball with him though. When he would ignore her, she would walk over and hand him the ball. It was a lot of fun to have her at our apartment. She's at such a fun age.
On Saturday I had my first large family photo shoot, eight adults and eight kids. It was pretty crazy getting that many people coordinated especially when all of the kids were under the age of 8 or 9. It went well though and I think I got some good shots.
After the shoot we drove right up to one of the many windmills in that area. They are so cool! It's hard to capture how large they are with the camera. It was neat to be that close to them and hear them working.
Yesterday was a Senior photo shoot with some serious wind. We had to find wind blocks wherever we could. Luckily my model lived on a cool farm with lots of different buildings and farm structures. She was very sweet and didn't even act like the wind bothered her. Her mom was so friendly and chatted with Josh and I the whole time. She said how she had remembered Josh from a community play that he was in years and years ago. I said how the first time I ever saw him was when he was in his high school musical. She said to Josh, "So that really worked out for you, didn't it?" It was very cute.
In between all of that was church, a trip to the mall, a family reunion, Josh rearranging our living room, a nap, laughing and feeling completely exhausted! It was a good weekend.
babysitting tonight
Friday, September 28, 2007Labels: family matters
Tonight Josh and I are babysitting our niece Kate. It's going to be weird to have a little one in the apartment as I don't know that it's ever happened. We always go to Kate's house to see her. I'm excited to have her over to play and to see how Bebo does with a kiddo. I will report back!
tony and emily got hitched
Tuesday, September 04, 2007Labels: family matters
My brother's wedding in 25 words or less: Beautiful weather. Crazy chaotic day. Limo ride. Gorgeous bride. Crying. Dancing with my hubby. Good friends. Two huge blisters. Waiting. Strawberry cake. And they're married...
party planning
Wednesday, August 08, 2007Labels: craftiness, family matters
My mom and I hosted a bridal shower for my future sister-in-law, Emily, on Sunday. We had such a good time planning it. We decided to go with a brown and pink theme and all of the food was chocolate related (expect for fruit and dip). Emily loves chocolate! I bought material from Hobby Lobby to make the tablecloths and table runner. It was much cheaper than buying something and all I did was hem up the ends. My mom made the killer food (check out those linzer cookies!).
I guess my mom and I teaming up was a crazy combination. Not only do we think alike, get excited about stuff like this but we love to plan parties. I have been reading blogs like Hostess with the Mostess so I was all revved up for this. It was simple and classy but not too formal or stuffy. I mean, can the party really be stuffy with tissue paper pom poms hanging from the ceiling? I think the shower was definitely a success.
kate's party
Monday, July 30, 2007Labels: family matters
My niece, Kate, had her first birthday party on Saturday. Josh and I decided on getting the wooden toy camera. It was a big hit, not just with Kate but the adults too! In all of the brightly colored plastic toys, our gift definitely stood out.
Kate is moving around pretty good by herself now. Plus she's really starting to warm up to Josh more so it's been fun to watch them play. It was so cute to watch her eat the cake. At first she just kind of picked at the frosting. Luckily Uncle Josh came along and stuck his finger in the cake so she could see there was more too it. Soon after, her hand (full of cake) was shoved in her mouth.
Somehow I completely lucked out and got to hold my nephew, Tristan for almost an hour. Jill let me feed him and then he fell asleep on me. With that many people there I felt so lucky to have him for so long! He is so precious.
Kate throws a good party. I still can't believe that she's a year old already. She'll be driving before I know it. But at least by then I'll have even more embarrassing pictures of her.
this kiddo is seriously cute
Tuesday, July 17, 2007Labels: family matters
I made supper for my sister-in-law and their husband last night so Josh and I took it over. We got to spend a whole hour with Tristan and he was awake for most of it. I couldn't believe how alert and wide eyed he was.
I put him down on the floor in front of a window. It's great when they're that young you can just move them around and do whatever. They'll typically just go back to sleep. Although this little squirt isn't sleeping so much at all, especially at night. Hopefully he'll get his schedule on track so mom and dad can get some good sleep. Tristan and I had a little chat last night and he agreed to sleep all night only waking once to eat. I hope he listened to his Aunt Kimmie.
the little turtle
Sunday, July 08, 2007Labels: family matters
Jill, my sister-in-law, went to the hospital at 8pm on Thursday night. My nephew, Tristan, was finally born on Saturday at 7:49pm. They said she was in active labor for 36 hours and pushed for about two. Whew! Josh and I had been calling him the little turtle all weekend because he didn't want to come out of his shell.
On Saturday we had decided to stop by the hospital in the early evening to see how everyone was doing. Josh's folks and other two sisters had been there since lunch so I brought cupcakes. They thought Jill might have him at anytime so we just stayed. Finally at about 9:30 I got to hold the little one. Tristan's mom and dad are doing good, just a little tired! Feels like just yesterday I was meeting Kate Ella, my niece... Crazy how fast time goes.
a day with our dads
Monday, June 18, 2007Labels: family matters
We were lucky enough to spend time with both of our dads yesterday. First was lunch and some Wii bowling at my parents. We set up a little tournament bracket so we all could play and I couldn't believe it when I was beating everyone! The last round was my dad and I. I think I probably should have let him win because it was Father's Day but he would have known.
After that we went to Josh's parents to do a little swimming. They got a huge new pool this year and it is very nice. The water was so warm that it felt really relaxing.
It was a good day spending it with our dads since they happen to both be pretty cool guys!
one year birthday present
Wednesday, June 13, 2007My niece, Kate, is turning one at the end of July. This means that I am already on the quest for a superb, awesome birthday present. Josh and I want to pick something that we would want for our child (should we have one). We love design, even when it comes to kids' toys. I love "old school" toys made from wood and not all of the plastic neon colored new toys. And of course, I want Kate to like it best. ::wink, wink:: Labels: family matters
Here's what I found so far:
Garden Critters Finger Puppet Set - Mahar Drygoods
Doggone Adorable Pull Toys - Land of Nod
Ugly Doll - ModernTots
SoftBlocks - MoMA Store
Wooden Camera - Romp
Thing One & Thing Two - egiggle.com
I love the wooden camera which would be perfect coming from Josh and I. I think getting her the Thing One & Thing Two with "The Cat in the Hat" book would be cute. The pull toy would be appropriate because she'll be walking soon and every kid needs a pull toy. I just don't know...what would a one-year old like best?
chubby little cheeks
Thursday, May 03, 2007Labels: family matters, knight light
I have a hard time believing that my niece is already 9 months old. I got to do her pictures on Sunday and of course she was adorable as always. She is so expressive! Plus she has the most pinchable chubby cheeks. Love those...
Wasn't Kate just born yesterday? Anyway, there's a few more on Flickr.
tony and emily's photoshoot
Monday, March 26, 2007Labels: family matters, knight light
I think this is one of my most favorite pictures I've ever taken. Josh and I met Tony and Emily yesterday to take some pictures for the Save the Date I'm designing. We had such a good time wandering around taking random pictures. They were so much fun to shoot.
Emily laughs like this a lot around Tony. Actually we all laugh like this a lot around Tony. He's just that kind of guy.
I'm so glad the weather held up and we were able to do our little photoshoot. You can see some more on Flickr.
jill and dan's wedding
Monday, March 12, 2007Labels: family matters, knight light
I made it through the wedding! Between Josh and I, we took 921 pictures...although that has been weeded down to about 620 to show to Jill and Dan. Everything actually went really smoothly and the weather was absolutely gorgeous. Josh and I just kind of did our thing and no one really noticed. Before the ceremony I was even able to take Jill and Dan outside seperately to do some of their pictures. Some of the lighting was kind of harsh but I was pretty pleased with what we got.
Josh was a lifesaver, as usual. It was awesome to have him with me to discuss settings on my camera and keep things organized. He also snapped pictures from the back of the church during the ceremony. He got this one of me in action which I thought was cool.
Of course on the way to the reception I had to freak out a little bit and go through the whole doubting myself thing. After the ceremony things were a little more rushed to get done on time so I felt nervous about what I had captured. I spent yesterday morning uploading the pictures and doing the basic processing. I was very happy with all that we had got. I see things I could have done better or different but overall I think they turned out.
I could just keep posting the pictures on here...instead check out the rest of the preview pictures on flickr.
the little chapel
Tuesday, February 27, 2007Labels: family matters
Yesterday after work my parents and Josh and I went out to a small chapel that Tony and Emily may possibly get married in. They haven't seen the inside of it so we went and I took a bunch of pictures to help them decide. It was such a cute place. I could totally see my brother getting married there.
We had my parents "test" out the front of the church for Tony and Emily. Josh and I found lots of cool places for pictures. I think we all gave our approval...now we just need the bride and groom to agree!
jill's bridal shower
Tuesday, February 20, 2007Labels: family matters
My sister-in-law, Missy and I helped host a bridal shower for my other sister-in-law, Jill. The shower was at Jill's future mother-in-law's. At first I felt a little awkward because I don't know her future in-laws at all and we had to help set up. But we had a good turn out and it seemed like Jill had a good time. I really like doing things like that...hosting showers. It's better though when I have more of an opportunity to help plan it.
Everybody liked my advice to the bride and groom:
kate's 6-mo pictures
Monday, February 05, 2007Labels: family matters, knight light
I had Kate's six month pictures on Saturday. I still can't believe that she's six months old. Josh rigged up a backdrop for me using pvc and canvas. I was so worried about it. The wrinkles would not come out of this material! I washed it, hung it up, ironed it, starched it... Nothing worked so I wasn't for sure that the pictures were even going to look okay. I stressed for nothing because the backdrop worked out perfectly.
I even brought pink material for a backdrop change. Kate was incredibly cute...just giggling the whole time. Each time I do her pictures, they get more and more fun.
happy kate
Wednesday, January 17, 2007Labels: family matters
My niece, Kate, is going to be six months old at the end of the month. I can't believe how quickly she's changed and grown up. Last night I stopped by her house. From the minute I walked in the door until the minute I left, she was giggling at me. I sat her up against a pillow and we chatted about our days. She laughed at how silly her aunt was. She sure recognizes my camera though. Her eyes follow wherever it goes. She is at such a fun age!
gideon update
Friday, January 05, 2007Labels: family matters
Back in September I wrote about how a stray cat had been coming up to my parents' house. This cat wouldn't let anyone touch it and if you did he'd probably swat at you. Um, yeah...things have changed quite a bit since then.
Gideon, as he's affectionately called, now is allowed in the house for awhile on most evenings. He'll curl up on my mom's lap and purr loudly. My mom who was so determined to get this cat to warm up to her won the battle. He'll roll on his back when she goes to rub his belly. He'll even touch his nose to hers when she asks for a kiss.
It's really quite ridiculous but so cute. To me, it just showed what my mom could do if she was determined enough.
whew...
Wednesday, December 27, 2006Our Christmas weekend has come to an end. It was a full and happy time. Here's my recap in pictures: Labels: about me, christmas cheer, family matters
My brother, Tony and his fiance, Emily came home. Josh and I were honored to be asked to be in their wedding. Yeah, that's right...I'm a freakin' bridesmaid.
We decorated my parent's tree with all of our childhood ornaments.
My parents cooked up quite the feast on Christmas Eve. Gideon, the adopted stray, was allowed inside for awhile. Toby even shared his bed.
We played Battle of the Sexes and Apples to Apples where we all got a little into it.
My mom had her first actual cup of coffee on Christmas morning. She was so darn excited.
My dad and brother both got new kicks for Christmas and decided to show them off with a high kick.
And of course, we got to spend some time with our favorite niece, Kate.
It was such a great weekend. Josh and I both got so many nice gifts...more than we deserved. It was a wonderful time spent with our families. Sad it's over...
christmas stuff and my folks
Friday, December 22, 2006Labels: about me, christmas cheer, family matters
Our little Christmas tree is packed full of Christmas presents all wrapped and ready to go. Every year I plan how I'm going to wrap all of presents. This year I had a plan but chucked it all when I realized I had all of this blue snowflake paper. I think I probably bought it last year after Christmas, planning for next year!
I had to share this ornament. It is my absolute favorite ornament. I made it when I was in nursery school and it has survived since then. Growing up that was my favorite ornament to put on the tree. While we were decorating the tree I would pick a bottom branch in the front for this little guy. Once we got Toby that didn't work so much since it's made from a dog biscuit, so it was moved to a very high branch. It hasn't been gobbled up by a puppy and managed to make it on my tree every year.
A few pictures from last night:
The trick is to just snap pictures like I'm the paparazi. Soon they'll be laughing so much that I'm bound to get a good one. I took this one of my parents last night. Love it.
My mom always shys away from the camera. I was telling her that if she just relaxed and had fun with it I was likely to get a good picture. Suddenly she started posing like a model and laughing. I kept snapping and got this beauty. I think she looks gorgeous.
the big 5-0
Thursday, December 21, 2006Labels: family matters
Today is my dad's 50th birthday. Let's face it, you'd never know by looking at him. He's ripped and looks to be mid-30's. Everyone knows my dad is pretty much my hero. My brother will agree that our dad is kind of a stud. I thought I'd post a few of my favorite pictures of my dad. I posted a few on his birthday last year.
I guess the thing I want to say is how important my dad is to me. He is ALWAYS there for me and anyone else that needs something. He's one of those guys that would do anything for you...always there to lend a hand. He's also stubborn and bullheaded but usually those qualities are endearing. My mom and Josh both say that we're so much alike but we always deny it. Really though, when someone tells me I'm like either of my parents I take that as a huge compliment.
There are certain things in my life that are constants. My dad and his constant teasing, his goofy sayings like "you chucklehead", his laugh, and how when he gets choked up his nostrils flair and his face turns red (probably like what will happen when he reads this).
He's a good guy and I'm lucky to have him for my dad. I don't tell him nearly enough that I appreciate him.
So Dad, I just wanted to let you know that I really appreciate you. I love you. Happy Birthday.
christmas memory: the year we got a puppy
Wednesday, December 20, 2006Labels: christmas cheer, family matters
Growing up my brother and I were typical kids that ask for a dog for Christmas. I seem to remember thinking that my parents would never go for it. Little did I know that on Christmas Eve of 1993, there was a little white puppy sleeping in my parents' bed.
Christmas morning started like every other Christmas morning...my parents had to wake up my brother and I. (What can I say? We're heavy sleepers.) My mom told us that we had a couple gifts to find. We were given clues that lead to a gift and another clue. The last clue lead us to the attic. We finally headed downstairs and my parents were sitting in the living room. My dad moved a rug he was holding up to reveal a DOG! A tiny white fluff ball darted towards my brother and I.
I couldn't believe it! He was so cute. Unfortunately my brother was still scared of dogs after an unfortunate chasing incident when he was younger. He jumped up on one of the chairs and started crying. I immediately started crying because I thought we were going to have to give him up.
My brother got over his fear of dogs that day because a little white puppy befriended him. Toby and my brother became buddies in a matter of minutes. I will always remember going on a scavenger hunt that Christmas and seeing Toby for the first time. Oh, and those small gifts we found? Dog toys.
christmas plans
Friday, December 15, 2006Josh and I worked out our Christmas plans fairly painlessly this year. The really weird thing is that we just have two, my parents and his parents. His grandparents are all snowbirds this year so we won't be having a family Christmas with them. My dad's side of the family is the only ones that still get together on my side. They're having it on Christmas day which I think is silly. I would plan a larger family Christmas a few days before or after. Josh and I will be at his mom and dad's during my relative's Christmas so we won't be able to go. We'll do my parents' Christmas in the morning on Christmas Day and after lunch go to his parents. It should be a fun day. Labels: christmas cheer, family matters
It's kind of cool how it all worked out this year. Since I don't really have any time off it will be good to be able to just be at home some. I can't believe Christmas is in less than two weeks. I've got some shopping to do!
snippet
Friday, December 08, 2006While bundling up to take out Bebo I put on a tassled hat. Labels: about me, family matters
J: That hat makes you like you're from Whoville.
K: Oh, well that's because I am from Whoville.
J: Hmm...how is it that I never knew that?
K: I wanted to wait until at least a year into our marriage to tell you.
J: So is that why your mom looks like an elf?
K: Yep.
J: But is your dad a Who too?
K: No. I'm half-Who.
jenna turned 16
Wednesday, November 29, 2006Labels: family matters
I can't believe that my sister-in-law turned 16 yesterday. I really still feel like she's 12, like when I first met her. Josh and I went over to my in-laws for supper last night and I made Jenna a birthday cake (see above picture). My father-in-law bought Jenna a Ford Ranger for $500 that doesn't run. She is so excited about it! Scott is really handy so he's getting it a new engine and I'm sure will have it running in no time. Man, I loved my first car. I'm sure she'll be stoked when hers is running.
We had a good time hanging out. Everyone is used to me clicking the camera so they pretty much ignore it. I was able to snap this one of my father-in-law with Kate, his adorable granddaughter. Few more pics on Flickr.
ingredients for a baby photoshoot
Saturday, November 11, 20061 Nikon D50 Labels: family matters, knight light
1 yard and 1 inch of fuzzy white fabric from Joann's
4 adults making silly noises (this should include 1 daddy to wipe away the slobber)
3 squeaky toys (may substitute rattles)
3 couch pillows
1 48" gold reflector
1 baby in a cute dress
Mix together. All for a shot like this:
i killed starbucks
Monday, November 06, 2006Labels: coffee talk, family matters
Last week I talked about my mom and her new love of Starbuck's. She kept asking about the calories in one of those drinks. That is just something that I try not to think about. Well my curiousity got the best of me and decided to check them out. Um, yeah...a tall White Chocolate Mocha with whip cream is 460 calories. Wha...huh??? 460 calories, are you kidding me? I mean, I figured there was a lot but 460? Seriously. (Check out all of the calories here. If you dare!)
I didn't want to tell my mom but I knew I had to. I emailed her with some of the calories for the drinks we get. She emailed me back and said she was drinking her coffee black from now on. (Which of course, she could never do.) I guess it's only appropriate that I introduced my mom to the wonderful world of Starbucks and I was the one that took it all away. She did get a tall nonfat white chocolate mocha with no whip yesterday...but let's face it, it's just not as fun.
little bug
Saturday, October 28, 2006Labels: family matters, kodachrome
Aunt Kimmie got to babysit Kate today. It was so great. Three whole hours just her and me... Of course I had the camera! I uploaded a few to flickr. She had lots to "talk" about and lots of smiles for me. I just can't get enough of her.
the little java monster
Friday, October 27, 2006Up until a couple months ago my mom had never drank any coffee. She would occasionally try a drink and say that it was disgusting. All of that changed though...I believe it was while my mom and I were shopping that I convinced her to stop at Starbucks for me. I got one of my usuals, a White Chocolate Mocha and then forced her to try a drink. I remember her looking at me with wide eyes. "This is really good!" Labels: coffee talk, family matters
I surprised her with a pumpkin spice frappuccino one day and her eyes were opened to the chilled coffee drinks. Soon she was trying drinks at Panera and Starbucks. Sniff, I was so proud. My mom was growing up.
On Wednesday I got this email from my mom after lunch: "Kimberly! You really have turned me into a java monster!!! Do you think they have a group to join that helps you break your addiction to being a java monster????? Seriously. I'm in big trouble. I had to drop some papers off and before I knew what was happening, my car was driving right into the parking lot at Panera Bread!!! It was like it was all of a sudden on auto pilot. =) So since I was there, I thought I might as well go in a get myself an ICSpice."
I totally created a monster. It's so great.
somebody's getting married
Tuesday, October 24, 2006Labels: family matters
This is my little brother buying a diamond. A couple weeks ago he had finally saved up the money to buy THE ring. Sunday night he proposed to his girlfriend, Emily. And she said yes!
Congratulations Tony & Emily!
weekend part 2
Wednesday, October 11, 2006Labels: about me, family matters
On Sunday Josh and I went to his family's church for Kate's baby dedication. It's been quite awhile since we've been to a more traditional church service. I have missed singing from a hymnal instead of all praise songs. Kate slept through the whole service even when Pastor Jim "stole" her from Eric and Missy. After church the whole crew went out for lunch to celebrate Kate's dedication.
During lunch Josh ran out to the car for Missy to get Kate's bottle. I asked him if he would run the bottle under some hot water and he trotted off. Missy gave me a funny look and said, "Um, is he practicing for something?" I laughed and said, "No, not yet". She surprised me by saying, "Oh...shucks". I usually feel like his family thinks that we're so young and have a long way to go before having kids.
It was an eventful day though. I got to hold my niece, pick on my sister-in-law Jill, eat lunch at a crappy restaurant, buy "The Little Mermaid". I even told Jenna that it hurt my feelings when she was so mean to me. She laughed but then I think realized I was being serious. Hopefully it will make a difference.
the waiting
Tuesday, October 10, 2006Labels: about me, deep thoughts, family matters
Hospitals are a weird place to be or rather, waiting rooms are a weird place to be. I spent my morning in a hospital yesterday and most of it in a waiting room. Sitting in the waiting room I looked around at the other people. They were all there while a loved one was back in surgery. I didn't know them, they didn't know me but it we had something in common. People we had probably never met were performing surgery on our family members or friends. It's a scary thing to be there and to really not know what was going on. Just having faith...trusting that everything was going fine.
My mom's procedure took longer than expected. The last half an hour was pure torture. You can only look at the clock so many times. My dad paced or looked over the balcony. When we were told to go in a small conference room to see her doctor after the surgery I almost lost it. Panic set in and I tapped my foot faster. Apparently that is just protocol and the doctor informed us she did great. Relief set in and I was even able to walk through the hospital's gift shop.
Last night she was already home on the couch looking remarkably perky. Her little voice is still scratchy from the intubation tube and she's weak but she wasn't short on smiles or a laugh.
I think the worse part yesterday was letting the nurses wheel her back. She was half asleep by then but I just wanted to cry and stay with her. Why couldn't I just be right outside the door to make sure everything was going okay? When I finally got to see her again in the recovery room she looked smaller than normal all curled up on the cot. When she told me in a tiny hoarse voice that she just wanted to go home, I wanted to scoop her up and carry her home. The funny thing is that I felt like I could scoop her up and carry her out of that hospital.
Hospitals are a weird place. I'm thankful that everything went well and thankful that there are people like those doctors and nurses who can take care of special people like my little momma.
the momma
Monday, October 09, 2006My cute little momma is having some surgery this morning at 9:00 so if you wouldn't mind sending some prayers or good thoughts her way, I'd appreciate it. Labels: family matters
little miss attitude
Friday, September 29, 2006Labels: family matters
On Saturday Josh and I went over to his parents house because his sister, Jenna was getting ready for homecoming. She asked if I would do her makeup so we got there early. I thought she would be in a great mood since she was going out to eat and going to a dance. Hmm...not so much. "Whatever. I don't care." I don't know how many times I heard that come out of her mouth. All I could think about was that she is so bershon! Taking pictures of her and her date was a nightmare. If I could get her to smile I had to snap quick. Hopefully she'll grow out of this stage quickly.
more Kate
Tuesday, September 26, 2006Labels: family matters, kodachrome
I got to see my favorite niece on Sunday. She's already 8 weeks old, which blows my mind. They really do grow up fast. We laid her on a blanket and she just smiled and cooed. I love that she's smiling now. Every time I see her she's going to be doing new stuff! Can't wait for her to say "Kimmie".
My sister-in-law, Missy, is going back to work on Thursday. She's getting very nervous about it which I don't blame her at all. I can't imagine leaving my little baby with someone else to watch. I've always wanted to be a stay-at-home mom. I just hope that when that day comes it will work out. I'd be a wreck going back to work.
the bears
Thursday, September 21, 2006Labels: about me, family matters
I think the Bears are going to the Superbowl this year. We'll have to bring back the Superbowl Shuffle. I think I should probably get a vintage Bears shirt like this one.
Laugh if you want...I know absolutely nothing about football. My prediction is completely based on sentimental reasons (my dad in his favorite Bears shirt or my 1 year old brother dancing in his walker to the Superbowl Shuffle) and nothing concrete or technical.
the mean cat and my mom
Thursday, September 07, 2006Labels: family matters
A month or so ago a cat started coming up to my parent's backyard. At first he'd sit on the edge of their property but slowly he started coming closer to the house. Now he spends most of his time laying on a bench on their back deck or eating the dog food my folks leave out for him.
This cat is a little mean though. He will swat at you if you get too close and even hiss a little. My mom is determined to get this cat to warm up to her. No matter how many times he goes to swat at her, she will still try to pet him. She has even named him Gideon. It's the cutest thing to see her go to the screen door and say, "Gideon...did you have a good day?". He'll reply with loud meow noises but still won't let her pet him. She gets mad at us all when we joke about punting him across the yard. She says that he doesn't know any better and she thinks he was mistreated as a kitten so that's why he swats at us.
My mom is so darn sweet. The funny thing is that this is how she is with people. No matter how many times someone is rude to her (swats at her), she still treats them well and thinks that maybe someday they'll warm up. I guess we could all stand to be a little more like that.
more kate
Tuesday, August 29, 2006Labels: family matters, kodachrome
Josh and I went to see our little niece, Kate, last night. It's amazing how much she has grown in just a month. I know that each time we see her it will be like that. She was awake pretty much the whole time which is very cool. Of course when she did fall asleep we had to faux-hawk her hair...
cookie sheets
Thursday, August 10, 2006Last night I was a busy bee. I had told my sister-in-law, Missy, that I would make them supper for tonight. So last night I whipped up chicken tetrazzini so it would be all ready today. I also "whipped up" almost 6 dozen chocolate chip cookies. My little momma, bless her heart, brought over her huge cookies sheets and helped scoop the cookies. I realized that I only have one decent size cookie sheet and one little tiny one. How is that possible? I mean, I just got married. I should have 10 in a every size. Labels: apartment living, family matters
I guess it's a good thing that I don't because I just don't have the room to store them. I am becoming increasingly frustrated with apartment living and lack of storage. In the kitchen I have basically one cupboard to hold my strainer(s), Pyrex containers, cake pans, muffin tins... It's completely out of control and bothers me to the point of not wanting to even open that cupboard door. I think this is why for the first time in my life I don't want to cook/bake very much.
Josh and I have decided to start researching the house thing. It really doesn't make sense for us to just sit on our butts and wish for a house. I would rather know that I have looked into everything even if we can't buy a house until next year.
My mom always says that I'm a "chip off the old block" in regards to my Dad. I know that one of the traits I did get from him is his inability to just let things pan out. He's one of those people that researches things, figures something out, investigates until he knows the answer. If he gets a bill that doesn't make sense, he's on the phone immediately. Why waste time thinking about it when you can just call, figure it out and be done with it? Yeah, I'm like that too. So it just makes sense to me that you would look into your options even if nothing works out.
I'm okay with living in our apartment a while longer but we might as well see if there's a way for us to afford a house. Honestly I would really like to get a few more cookie sheets someday.
she smiles and it's a rainbow
Monday, July 31, 2006Labels: family matters, music
Internet, meet my niece...
Josh and I went over to the hospital to meet our new niece, Kate. She is so sweet and beautiful (totally doesn't have that newborn squished face). Missy and Eric were both looking a little tired but really happy. Missy passed her off to me as soon as I got in the door. She wouldn't open her eyes for me...just slept peacefully. It's pretty cool to be an Aunt.
One of my favorite Ben Folds songs is "Kate". I'm thinking that Uncle Josh and Aunt Kimberly will definitely have to serenade the little one very soon...
Kate - Ben Folds Five (Not sure if it's legal but here, you can listen...)
"She plays wipeout on the drums
The squirrels and the birds come
Gather round and sing the guitar
Oh I. . .have you got nothing to say
When all words fail she speaks
Her mix tapes a masterpiece
Walks through the garden
So the roses can see
Oh i. . .have you got nothing to say
And you can see daisies
In her footsteps
Dandelions, butterflies
I wanna be Kate..."
rough weekend but happy beginning to the week
On Friday I went to the doctor because I wasn't feeling well and they gave me two different prescriptions. Unfortunately on Saturday one of those meds made me really sick. I had a terrible reaction to one of them and spent pretty much the whole weekend alternating between the bed and the couch. By last night I was going crazy because I was so tired of feeling sick and I hadn't eaten anything since lunch on Saturday. I managed to eat some Tostitos (I know, quality) and was able to sit up for awhile. Josh came into the living room where I was sitting on the couch. He stopped dead in his tracks and said, "Oh my goodness, my wife is sitting up!!!". He sat down next to me and went on and on about how he missed me this weekend. It was pretty cute until I needed to go take another nap on the bed. I'm feeling a little better today and Josh is about to force me to eat some breakfast so we'll see what happens.