The McShipleys

Yikes!

2010-08-03T19:16:00.000-07:00

I can't believe my last post was January....oh wait, yes I can! Life has been quite hectic to say the least. But I finally have no more excuses for the lack of blogging...I just got my very first laptop and am absolutely in LOVE with it....it's a Mac and although I have sooo much to learn, we are getting along great. It really is like a relationship....learning new things each day.

Right now we are on vacation in Virginia with the Family.

I will post more later...just wanted to finally update the pics and backgrounds before going to bed.

House Plans

2010-01-24T17:12:00.000-08:00

I am very overwhelmed because we make settlement in 19 days. By the time we settle, I need to have paint colors picked out for the rooms that will be painted and carpets ordered. The weekend after we have the house, we plan on painting and carpeting to make sure that's out of the way before the "big move" happens.

A couple months ago, right before Christmas, Mackie went on an "I love everything pink and black!" So of course, Santa honored this with just about every item he gave her. Now that it is time to pick out room colors, Mackie and Kaylee (who will be sharing) decided on a pink and black theme. Danielle and I found this on PotteryBarn Teen and the girls (and I) loved it! So this is the theme we are going for....of course I had to improvise and shop around because to get one set of everything at PB is a tad pricey, but to double the order, was a little extreme.

The polka dot comforter we actually scored from Pennys. What an ordeal that was! When I finally placed my order, Pennys told me they couldn't complete it because they were sold out. I was bummed! I still stalked the webpage everyday to see if I could add to my cart. Danielle decided to try entering some fancy codes and viola! It worked! I ended up with 2 comforters! YIPPIE!! Also from Pennys, I ordered 2 white bed skirts and 2 plain black shams. I couldn't resist the pink initial pillow from PB along with 2 polka dot pillow cases. To complete the ensemble, I picked up (thanks to Danielle), 2 pink quilts from Target- that just so happen to match the initial pillow perfectly! Pink walls and gray carpets should complete the room. Of course I will post the finished project!

I don't have any pics to upload of Gia's set. But like her sisters, she is going for pink and black. Her comforter set is pink design (from Target) along with a black quilt. I ordered her the initial pillow from PB in black. We will paint the walls a faint-pink color, because the bedspread is vivid!

As for the rest of the house....who knows??? I have been stalking Danielle just about 5 times a day for advice, questions, opinions, etc. I call her my I.D. - interior decorator. Gotta tell ya, she also is a deal seeker- always seems to find the best prices! Keep it up Danielle! I have yet to utilize all of my friends talents...but don't you worry I surely will! Nicole is going to be my wallpaper remover and picture frame hanger upper! Lauren- well she is an amazing painter and creative crafty one that will truely come in hand for the decorating. So if your name was mentioned be prepared for the constant nagging. If I didn't mention you, doesn't mean I won't be bothering you either.....oh you wait!

Sheww...It's been FOREVER!

2010-01-16T10:06:00.000-08:00

Ok, I know I am way behind with my blog. Everytime I fall behind, I claim that I am going to make a conscience effort to do better. I realized why it is so important to keep up with this, thanks to Matt's Aunt Barb! We saw her at Matt's cousin's wedding and she told me how she enjoys reading it/seeing what's going on with us. So, I will try my very best. (Blogging would also be way easier if Matt would just get me the Apple Laptop I have been dreaming of...but I guess one thing at a time.)

Things have been sooooo crazy since my last summer post. To try and sum up our lives in a nut shell- In October, we moved in with my parents because my house sold and we hadn't found a house yet. So God Bless Mom and Dad for allowing all 5 of us to live here. My parents are complete saints who help us out tremendously. (For example, they drive our girls to school, EVERY DAY!)

As of right now, we found our dream house, bid on it, and are under contract with a settlement date of February 12th (Gia's Birthday!) WoooHoooo...can't wait.

I tried to trace back to the end of the summer and include some tid bits of what's been going on in our lives.

September 7th was the girls' first day of school. To make a long story short, Winslow (which is where the girls used to attend because I work in district), decided they didn't want to support their own policy and told us we could no longer attend their schools. So, three days before school started I had to register them in Williamstown. They absolutely love it! I'm not to fond of the half day kindergarten schedule, but at least they are happy!

New backpacks and outfits, of course!

2010-01-16T09:53:00.000-08:00

On September 13th Dad's Rutgers Alumni Group sold tickets for the Riversharks game. So we packed up the troop and enjoyed some good ole' baseball.

Gia is my little soccer star. She made the travel team this year and loves every minute of it!

I just had to throw this in there. Mackie is obessed with cameras. When I finally downloaded all of my pics, I found about 60 pictures that she took of herself! So of course, Santa Clause recognized this, and made sure to include this in her Christmas pile!

Ahhhh...my favorite vacation, EVER!! Matt's brother Bill, organized a vacation to Mexico for all of us. So we, and five other couples, packed up our towels and suntan lotion and headed to Mexico on Friday, October 23rd. We came home on Monday. It was just a little slice of heaven!

The whole group!

And my absolute favorite....

(I think they're in love...)

2010-01-16T09:42:00.000-08:00

On October 27th, we celebrated Joshie's 5th Birthday, at the "Dragon Place". (Obviously named by the kids.)

Halloween is one of the kids favorite Holidays. Mackie was a butterfly, Kaylee was a Genie and Gia was Batgirl. We hung out at Nicki's house and then the kids walked around the neighborhood.

On November 2nd, we celebrated Ava's third Birthday. The girls all had a blast bouncing around at JumpZone. Then we went back to Aunt ReRe's for more food and fun.

Mommy and Ava

Cheese!

2010-01-16T09:07:00.001-08:00

On November 14, Matt and I, along with our friends, went to a Penn State Football Game. This is an anual event. Two years ago, Matt and I went alone. The following year, Scott and Lauren joined our fun. This year, we expanded, adding Dave and Carol. What a great time we have, tailgating and of course watching the game. Every year, we improve our tailgating-ness....can't wait for next year. Who wants to join us?

Matt and Lauren wrapped the tent to protect us from the mist and wind! Thanks Lauren!

Thanksgiving was spent at my sister, Nicki's, house. We had a delicious feast.

Nicki spent the day doing this.....

And I did this....

Christmas came and went faster than anything. I will post our Christmas pictures soon!

On January 2nd, we had a great time at Andrew's (Matt's cousin) wedding.

We were posing for a next magazine shoot!

The cousins...Jeff, Matt and Bill

Then, ALL the cousins!

And for the best news....we bought a house! Our settlement date is February 12th. It is a dream come true for all of us- including my parents, who probably want their house back to normal!

What the "McShipleys" have Been upto Lately...

2009-08-20T07:05:00.000-07:00

Since our Virginia vacation, we have kept ourselves busy doing various things and enjoying each and every minute of what is left of our summer vacation!!

August 19th...A Night on the OC Boardwalk

2009-08-20T06:51:00.001-07:00

On Wednesday, we took the girls to the OC Boardwalk. Danielle and I had originally decided not to go because of the intense heat, but then decided, a what the heck, let's just go. Once on the boardwalk, the heat wasn't that bad. So off to eat was our first stop. Shockingly, it was my first trip of the summer to Mack and Manco's Pizza Place and I thoroughly enjoyed each and every bite!

After eating, we headed straight to Wonderland Pier. Once you stepped off the main boards, and hit the ride area, the humidity smacked you in the face. Ughh...was it hot! But, it never phased the girls, and that's why we as parents do the things we do, right?

I think the reflection off my forehead is enough to see yourself in!

Sorry Jeff - cut you off just a tad...

Omg...Can you tell by Cambelle's face that she LOVES the slide?

We ended the night with refreshing Kohr Brothers ice cream. Chloe is hysterical to watch eating her ice cream cone.

What an awesome night it was!

August 13th....A trip to the Mall

2009-08-20T06:41:00.000-07:00

We decided to entertain ourselves by a visit to the Deptford Mall and perhaps a little shopping. Nicole, Daniell, all the girls, and I met at the mall in the morning. We did some shopping....

Then of course had to ride the horsies!

According to Gia's face, one can enjoy the horsies - even standing!

We hit a couple more stores, then settled for lunch at the Food Court - Chick-fil-A of course!

Kaylee sure loves her soup (even if it is 90 degrees out)!

Mackie's Posing in her New Outfit

2009-08-20T06:38:00.001-07:00

Aunt Marianne sent Mackie her birthday present. Although we might see each other often, they live in King of Prussia, she sure knows the "Mackie" I live with! This outfit totally suits Mackie's "sassy-ness"!

Lili's Christening - August 9, 2009

2009-08-20T06:17:00.000-07:00

On Sunday, August 9th, my cousin Andrea had her beautiful daughter, Lili Margaret, baptized at St. Nicholas Russian Orthodox Church.

Nadine (Godmother), Lili, Aunt Georgean (Lili's Grammy), and Paige

I think Lili is going for the candle.

Father John is blessing the water in preparation for the Baptism.

Lili is still after the candle....

This video is of Lili's actual Baptism. In our church, as you will see, they really make sure to bless the babies in their entirity.

After the Baptism...

Paige

Lili getting her beautiful Christening gown on...

Proud Parents, Andrea and Kevin and Excited Godparents, Nadine and James

Cute Chloe

2009-08-20T06:04:00.000-07:00

As I was downloading my photos, I noticed the funniest thing about alot of my pics of Chloe. Besides the fact that she is stinking adorable, she just might be auditioning for the next Austin Powers Movie (the role of his side-kick...can't remember the name)

CUTE CHLOE

And here it is, the famous "finger-in-the mouth-pose"....

HMMMM....

CHEESE!

In her defense, I think she is eating...but still too cute for words!

Our Vacation - Day 1...Sunday, August 2nd

2009-08-12T08:35:00.001-07:00

Yay! Let our vacation begin. We woke the girls up at 3:30 am to begin our travels to Williamsburg, Virginia! As you can see, the girls slept in their clothes to make life just a little bit easier! I loved the fact that at 3:30 am, we still see smiles!

As we loaded in the car, it was about 4am. Mackie and Kaylee rode in the first row...and Gia...

Sat alone in the back row. (With her own tv, of course!)

We met up with Nicki and Steve at WaWa. I couldn't resist getting a shot of her car load before we started the long ride!

Mackie lasted until about Glassboro, before she asked the infamous question, "Are we almost there yet?" Ughh....

Mom and Dad were first to arrive in Virginia and we too made excellent time, arriving in about 5 hours. We couldn't go to the rooms because they weren't ready yet, so we went out to breakfast.

Here's the whole gang!

After breakfast, the kids changed in the club house, and off to the pool they went!

Unfortunately, it started to pour! But that didn't seem to bother the kiddies, just us cranky adults who desperately wanted to settle in our rooms!

Finally, at about 2:30pm, we got the "go ahead" to unload into our places. My Dad has two units that were on the first floor, seperated by a door. Each unit is huge- with full kitchen, family room, 2 bathrooms, and 2 bedrooms and a laundry room. Nicki's family took one unit, and my family and parents took the other. It was really conveniently close to the clubhouse/pool!

Once we were settled, the boys went grocery shopping. We ended the night ordering pizza and playing poker. Mackie was sent to the room for a two minute time-out, and this is what I went in to at about 7:30pm. She was exhausted!!

Day 2...Monday, August 3rd

2009-08-12T08:29:00.000-07:00

We started the morning bright and early heading to Busch Gardens.

Mom and Dad rode in our car to the Park.

This was probably Nicki's boys' favorite ride, the Tram Car. One of the days we parked so close that we didn't need to take the Tram and they were upset!

Steve and Danny

The rest of the Gang up ahead...

This was by-far, Joshie and Ryan's favorite ride!

Danny spent alot of time just observing....

OK, so the next set of pictures were in Octoberfest, a huge dining hall in Germany! It's my favorite, and most expensive, place to eat in BG. The mere fact alone that it is air conditioned says it all. At about 1:30pm, dancers and a band come out and perform songs and dances for you. The kids loved watching.

Just getting done eating- pizza, mozzarello sticks, french fries with cheese sauce, two lunch meat wraps and some of Baba's ribs...

Mackie and her "snugglebuddy" (that's all she called him!)

After lunch, Matt wanted to stop and win the girls some prizes. He is really good at playing games! A few posts later, you'll see all of his winnings. I must add, that I did beat him at the water game!

We took the SkyRide over to another country. I rode with Gia and Jess. It was so cool to be up so high, right next to the roller coasters. Gia's favorite ride, was the Lochness Monster, a double looper, upside down. Check out the picture!

This was us next to the coaster as it went upside down! (ok, duh, Michelle, everyone can see it is upside down...)

As we left the park for the day, I made the girls photo-up in these things. Too funny, especially Mackie's! (For those of you that don't know Mackie, she talks from sun-up to sun-down and halfway through the night! I'm constantly revoking her speaking privileges...)

Day 3....Tuesday, August 4th

2009-08-12T08:07:00.000-07:00

Mom and Nicki made a fabulous breakfast of eggs, pancacks, bacon and sausage! The boys were up and out early to enjoy their first round of golf today. It was cool because when they got to the 13th hole, we could go out and observe. Which, I must say, was pretty interesting to get 7 children silent while they teed off! But we managed! After taking some group shots of course!

Mom, Nicki, Steve and I headed to the pool for the day to have some fun in the sun! I don't have any pool pics, must not have taken camera out, but I do have this adorable shot of Kay before we left!

After a day spent at the pool we all got dolled-up to head to a seafood buffet Matt read about in a magazine. I was personally psyched because I had read over the menu on-line about 15 times and couldn't wait to get there. I'm not gonna lie- I was a tad nervous because I kept thinking "What if it's lousy?" But thankfully, it was out-of-this-world DELICIOUS!!!! It was all home-made courses from endless snow crab legs, clams casino, mussels, salmon, prime rib, chicken, ribs, crab imperial, oysters, crab bisque, and tons more....Oh yeah, I almost forgot to mention the endless choices for dessert. I didn't sample any of those...not an once of room was left in my belly! The kids enjoyed the desserts, for sure!

As we walked back from the pool, with the exception of height, I was shocked how much they look alike, and how tan they are!

Before the Buffet...

Get a load of Joshie and Ryan- Shark Boys!

I love them!

Kaylee taking a rest at dinner.

Gia, literally digging out the clams with her fingers, and loving every lick of them. She had, no lie, 4 gianourmous plates full of clams!

After dinner we headed to BG to enjoy a Kinetics Night-time Light Show. It was really cool!

Day 4...Wednesday, August 5th

2009-08-12T07:49:00.000-07:00

So the plan for today was to wake up early, and head to Busch Gardens before the main park opened. Pop-pop had the kids make a list of 4 of their favorite rides and he guarenteed they would get to do them. Gia, Jessie, Nicki and Pop-pop were one group. Matt, Mom, Steve, Mackie, Kaylee, Ryan, Joshie, Danny and I were another. Gia must have had a rough night sleep...because this is how she looked when she got up...Have you ever seen messier hair?! I mean, I think something is really living in this nest!

This was Kaylee still sleeping at 8:00am while we were rushing to get ready to leave for Busch Gardens.

But not my Mackie, she was up, dressed, and already eating Pop-pop's oranges, ready to go!

Pop-pop cooking breakfast

The gang ready to go....we enjoy torturing them with this type of photo everytime before we leave! (We do this on every vacay.)

Once we got to the park, my group took the kids to see an Elmo 4-D production. Thanks to Nicole, I learned that 4-D means you get wet, and things really come out like bubbles! This was Kaylee attempting 4 glasses....

After BG, we headed back to the resort for lunch. Then off to Water Country, while Mom and Dad stayed behind with Danny. The kids enjoyed the water park...Me? Not so much! I guess I'm just getting old, but not a fan of getting my face and hair soaked with water, especially community water that just seems yucky! By the time we got home and ate dinner it was like 8:00pm....shewww..what a long, but fun, day!

Day 5....Thursday, August 6th

2009-08-12T07:16:00.001-07:00

The boys played their second round of golf today, while we had a delicious breakfast compliments of Nicki's pancake cooking! When Matt and my Dad get to the 13th hole, we ran out to watch them in action.

Mom decided to go out a sneak a hit. Wow, to be honest, she did better than my Dad...just don't tell him that!

Matt taking his shot...good form!

And my Dad...

As the guys finished their round of golf, we got the kids ready to head back to Busch Gardens for our last time :(

Kaylee is just too stinkin' cute with tiny braids and big smile!

All the children dressed and ready to roll...

Gia and Ryan on the tram car.

Daniel was a trooper! He spent most of the time in the stroller and you never ONCE heard a peep out of him!

In the front row is my Dad, Gia and Jess. 4th row back is Nicki, Mom, and Matt. Matt and Mom are waiving and Nicki is holding on for dear life! Holla!

Dad, Mom, Nicki and Steve went on Apollo's Chariot- a really wild roller coaster that only secures you with a handle that comes between your legs. As they waited in line, Matt and I entertained the kiddies.

More of what Danny did best!

Kaylee and Mackie begged to play Whack-a-Mole and I finally gave in. The first to get to 100 points wins...Mackie was struggling at 10 and Kaylee was doing awesome at 60. I decided to help Mackie out and apparently got too excited because we ended up beating Kaylee. Mackie was thrilled; Kaylee was devastated.

Mackie in action.

Kaylee's devastation

Mackie's excitement

Matt felt really bad for Kaylee so he wanted to win her something. A family of 6 were already seated so this prize was for the large one...and I mean large! So of course, me being the positive one, was like - you'll never beat those two other guys! Don't waste your money! Well, well, Kaylee's frown sure turned upside down, because Mr. Leo was soon hers!

Oh yeah! Kaylee rode around in the stroller all day, carrying Mr. Leo! Too funny! Once they were done the roller coaster, we let the kids ride some fun rides just their size.

It started down pouring rain! The weirdest part was all the rides kept going. Even the huge coasters still carried passengers up in the pouring rain! While it rained, we devoured the most delicious waffle cone ice creams, and then once it stopped, headed back to the resort. The kids piled all of Matt's winnings on the couch, with a couple purchases, and this is what it looked like...

Oh, HELLO, Kaylee!

Day 6....Friday, August 7th

2009-08-12T06:58:00.000-07:00

Today was sad because it was our last day. The kids were excited to head to the pool for a fun-filled packed day of activities. While my sister, Nicki, took all kiddies to the pool, Matt and I snuck off to quickly check-out Premier Outlets, which contained over 120 stores! Wow- talk about overwhelming...

Once the kids got down to the clubhouse, they enjoyed craft-time, bingo, swimming, more bingo, ice cream social, face painting, and more swimming. At one point, Nicki was helping 6 kids play 2 bingo cards each (She truly is a saint!)

Danny did this for 2 and a half hours on Nicki. He is so low-maintanence!

Mackie turning into a tiger.

Jessie as a leopard

This is what Ryan did because he told Baba (my mom) that "I'm not one of those kids that gets paint on their face!"

Grrrr! Pirate Kaylee

Butterfly Gia

Then it was time to head back to the room, and pack-up. This is always so depressing! But once we were packed, bathed and ready to go, we had to stop at the bench for some final vacay photos.

You can see Gia's face is still stained pink

Mommy's Girlies

The car packed and ready....notice Mr. Leo...the new gianormous addition to our stuffed animal family!

Many Stories To Come...on Vacation this Week in VA

2009-08-04T20:04:00.000-07:00

FYI

2009-07-30T17:47:00.000-07:00

Ok, just need to point out that the horse fly on the back of Gia's leg is Viola! GONE! (Thanks, Lauren for teaching me how to retouch pics! What an amazing button!)

A fun-filled day for Mackie

2009-07-30T16:37:00.000-07:00

Mackie received such an awesome present from Aunt Lauren. Lauren picked Mackie up at 9:30 in the morning to take her to the Philadelphia Zoo for her birthday present. She was so excited this morning, because she knew full well, today, was "all about me, Mommy! NOT my sissys (her nickname for sisters.)"

I told her to say "hi" to the gorillas for me- they're my favorite!

Love this pic!

Shewww...poor Mr. Polar Bear...you must be sweating!

After they left the zoo, Mackie and Aunt Lauren dined at Friendlees, Mackie's favorite restaraunt!

Then they stopped at Lauren's to pickup Koda and Hootie. Mackie was thrilled to not only get to ride next to them in the car, but walk them up the driveway into the house to show her sissys!

Of course Gia and Kaylee had to have their turn walking the doggies. So off they went while Aunt Lauren traveled with Mackie on her back and camera in hand!

I totally think Hootie is smiling for the picture!

Koda is not to sure of this picture cause he spotted 2 other dogs in the background.

What a great day had by all! Now I'm off to pack for vacation...

Mackie's 5th Birthday

2009-07-28T12:16:00.000-07:00

On Monday, July 27th we celebrated Mackie's 5th birthday. We started the morning by looking through her albums from birth. I still can't believe she is FIVE! Not quite sure why this still surprises me because I am sure you can all atest, that her attitude and behaviors mimics that of a 14 year old.

We had her Fished Themed pool party at Baba and Pop-Pops's.

All 7 of them

The kids started off swimming while I put out all of the food. Once everyone arrived, they dried off to eat dinner. We are very blessed with a wonderful family- Baba and Pop-Pop, Aunt Nicki, Uncle Steve and their 4...Jessica, Ryan, Josh and Danny, Aunt Laurn and Uncle Scott, Mr. and Mrs. Shipley, Uncle Bill & Aunt Nicole and their 2...Emma and Madeline, Uncle Jeff and Aunt Danielle with their 2...Cambelle and Chloe.

Maddie- loves that hand!

Matt and Scott - I think Matt is mid-bite...

Cambelle

For all of you that know Danielle...just picture her saying in her lovely Brittish accent - "Oh, Hellooo!"

HI Nicole!

Matt and his Mom

After dinner it was time for the cake-shaped pinata. Mackie was up first, then it went from smallest to tallest.

Aunt Lauren and Maddie watching the festivities

Mackie taking the first hit.

Matt's assisting those not quite tall enough...

Go Emma!

Danny was full-speed ahead all on his own!

Gia's crush sent candy flying everywhere!

Mackie sporting the top of the pinata. Which I must say, made a lovely cake hat.

Then we headed inside for cake. Check out the cute fish...I made it all by myself. Oh yeah, Betty Croker- move over!

After cake, Mackie wanted to go back swimming. So off they went!

This is what I did to entertain myself while people swam. I was determined to get a picture of Doggy, the huge fish, with his mouth open. I wasn't quite successful but you can still see how hugggeee he is!

At the top, center picture is the strangest looking fishy that swims sideways...literally! He is always "belly up".

Jeff and Matt had to leave for a softball game. Well, not just any game, it is the final round of the play-offs. Unfortunately they lost, but after the game, Jeff and Danielle brought the girls back for swimming.

Chloe - snacking on some pretzels

Baba had made hot chocolate for the kids when they got out of the pool. This mixed with the candy from the pinata, sure kept them going....

and going...

Mackie was the last kiddie out of the pool! This was about 9:45 pm!

As the party came to an end, kiddies started passing out left and right. The first to go out was Joshie, followed by Gia and Kaylee.

Josh and Gia

Gia

Shocker! Mackie is still up ready to party!

We finally left Baba's at about 11 pm, not bad for a 5 year olds birthday party!!

Sunday July 26

2009-07-28T11:58:00.000-07:00

On Sunday, we enjoyed the afternoon swimming at Baba's, eating Pop-Pop-Pop's delicious grilled steak, and devouring ice cream cones.

Mackie

Gia hanging onto Mr. Dino

Oopps..forgot to rotate...Nicki and Josh

Kaylee a.k.a. my little mermaid

Part of the Gang...

The other half...

Gia and Pop-Pop

For some reason, after this photo, everyone wanted to show me an open-mouth smile. I think Gia totally wins...with me a close second! You be the judge...

Ryan and Kaylee

Daniel

It seems af though Casey wanted to join in on the fun, but then chose to lick instead!

Our Weekend

2009-07-28T11:48:00.001-07:00

So on Friday, after a stressful morning spent at court (too depressing to get into details on here, but in a nut shell- my ex is nuts!), we decided to have a "Movie Day" at Baba's house. We gathered our favorite blankies and hopped into our comfy clothes and off we went to enjoy a showing of "Bedtime Stories".

Ryan, Baba and Joshie

Saturday we spent the morning running errands, which included Target and the Petco. Kaylee's fish had become a floater last week, and it was time to replace him. The girls enjoyed an afternoon with Matt outside, cleaning the garage, blowing bubbles and playing with a neighbor. In the evening, we geared up to head to Jeff and Danielle's for game night - for the adults and movie night in Danielle's bed- for the girlies. So once again, they gathered up their favorite blankies and comfy clothes and off we went.

Look Who's Turning 5...

2009-07-25T12:09:00.000-07:00

I can't believe my baby is going to be FIVE years old on Monday, July 27th! I really should be cleaning the house, but instead I was going through all my pictures and thought to adding a set showing my little baby through the years would be way more fun!

Mackenzie Elizabeth - July 27, 2004

Do you believe this is Joshie and Mackie? Exactly 3 months apart to the day...

Sisterly LOVE

Two things I love about this pic....the dress Mackie has on was once worn by me, and can you guess the baby?

4th Birthday

Too Cute!

Mackie's "Snugglebuddy"

Joshie and Mackie

More Sisterly LOVE

Loving every minute of SUMMER TIME!

2009-07-23T12:55:00.000-07:00

I REALLY have no excuse now if I don't keep up with my blog. We just got a brand new computer! My last computer gave me a good run, but being that it was fresh when I graduated college, many moons ago, it was time to put it to rest! Now, my new machine even has a slot for my camera card....so fingers crossed....I will maintain with updating my blog. Only time will tell....

The girls and I have been enjoying each and every minute of summer! The mere fact we all sleep till about 9:30-10:00 most mornings is fantastic. We spend as much time outdoors as possible. (Which is quite evident-just look at the girls skin coloring!) The funniest trip to the beach was when we went with my sister Nicki, her kiddies, and Baba (my mom). It was ungodly windy, to say the least. The kids try to make the best of it, while we sat bundled and tried to protect ourselves from the constant gusts of sand!

Baba, freezing on the beach.

Joshie- burried by Mackie.

Checkout their hair....

Aside from the beach, we basically live at Baba's pool. The girls are amazing swimmers. Even Mackie swims now without swimmies!

Jess and Gia enjoying the pool

We spent a day down Ocean City with Mr. and Mrs. Shipley. The girls had a blast on the boardwalk, especially on the rides that they treated them to...

Don't think Kaylee liked her position in this picture!

Spring 2009

2009-04-18T14:54:00.001-07:00

Hello to all and...yes...I am actually updating my blog. Ok, and I am not gonna lie, quite frustrated to say the least. I now have a very good excuse for not upkeeping with my blog page- my computer STINKS! I literally sat down at 3:30 to simply get rid of the Christmas page and music and add a couple of updated pictures. Well, it's now 5:56pm, and I haven't accomplished much! I was going to make a promise to seriously keep up with Danielle and Nicole, but who am I kidding? My computer is as slow as dirt and until Matt gets me a new one, which is hopefully soon, I will have to suffer with this one. I mean come on, my hard drive is from 1999. I think it's time for an upgrade, wouldn't you agree?

The girls and I have been off since April 9th and I have enjoyed each and every minute spent with the girls! I LOVE being home and find myself much calmer and more patient. I guess sleeping till 8:30am compared to 4:45am could have something to do with it! I can't believe how quickly time flies....Monday is around the corner and I am NOT ready. But I guess I should look at the bright side, the sooner I go back, the faster June will get here.

This weekend is actually our Easter. We are Russian Orthodox (Eastern Orthodox on your average calendar) and Easter for us is April 19th. It's a very holy time, to say the least! We spend quite a few hours in church: Friday night- Good Friday Service, Saturday morning- Service and food Blessed, Saturday night-the Resurrection Service followed by Easter Sunday service (then we stay for a Feast and usually venture home at about 3am, and for those of you that don't know, St. Nicholas is in North Philadelphia.) We will spend Sunday at my mom's for dinner. If I wasn't working, there are services Monday morning as well. So hopefully it won't be another 4 months before I post pictures from this weekend. I do have some pics from last night at church (Good Friday).

Jessie is make such a lovely face because she said Danny stomped on her foot. He is the littlest in the center.

Hysterical YouTube Clip (the first one)

2008-12-15T20:22:00.001-08:00

Check out the first YouTube clip! It is hysterical. It totally sums up parenting, especially at bedtime! Danielle, I thought of you especially because we were just talking about how bedtime is so prolonged, and the girls seem to know exactly what to do to make it near impossible! Matt and I laugh hysterically everytime we listen to it...I just had to find a way to include it on my page. Just make sure you turn off my "other" music down below and crank up your speakers!

How it all Began...

2008-12-13T06:25:00.000-08:00

I was just going through some files of pictures on the internet, and thought I would include this ironic little background story. So here goes... Here is my wonderful parents, Jim and Barbara McMonigle.

They had me and my sister, Nicki (two years apart). I won't advertise our ages, because quite frankly, we are getting OLD! hahah

My mom couldn't wait for grandchildren. But, I don't think she quite knew what she was in for... Because, you see, in 7 years, my mom and dad acquired SEVEN grandkiddies, all to love, spoil, and spend time with! We have Jessie (8), Gia (6), Kaylee (5), Ryan (5-Ryan and Kay are 5 weeks apart), Mackenzie (4), Joshie (4- Joshie and Mackie are exactly 3 months apart), and then there is Daniel (1). Shewww...I think I got that right. So now everyday pixs went from this...

Jessica and Gia (August of 2002).... To this......

Poconos (Summer of 2008)

Baba and Pop-Pop's deck during the summer of '08

And....Baba's Christmas card picture! Like I have said before, my mom and dad are the most wonderful parents in the world and treat us all like gold. Even though there is SEVEN, plus my sister and I, they seem to have enough love to travel around! Ok, so just for whatever reason, felt like including that today! Back to current events.

I am really attempting to make a valiant effort to keep this updated, even if it is brief. Last night, Matt and I were supposed to meet Jeff, Danielle, Cambelle, and Chloe for dinner but unfortunately Cambelle got sick. So we decided to try Pizza Hut, against my better judgement, not a huge fan. These are the unhappy faces because we didn't go to "BumbleBee's" as Kaylee calls Applebees....

Expressions sure changed for Kaylee once she got her plate of spaghetti!

She loves her pasta!

Kaylee not so fond of Mackie trying to eat her food. There is one thing you learn very quickly about Kaylee, DON'T TOUCH HER FOOD!

This toothless smile is my favorite! Especially the wod of gum in the back!

Dinner at Maggionos

2008-12-10T18:15:00.000-08:00

Friday, November 28th

Can't forget to include the amazing night Matt and I spent with Jeff and Daniel..ha ha I mean Danielle. We went to an Italian restaurant in the city called Maggiono's, not really sure how to spell it. Well can I just tell you how delicious it was? It's endless eating...and I mean endless! On top of the food never ending, the wrap up everything you don't eat and send it home with you!

This cake is endless...you can eat it all, and order MORE! Have you ever heard of such a thing?

After we stuffed our faces for hours, Danielle had an amazing idea! She suggested we take a walk around the city block for two reasons, one being to walk off some of the calories, but most importantly, to give out our leftovers to the needy and hungry people on the streets. How selfless is that? Giving something small to those in need, something I probably wouldn't have even thought of, but will from now on! Thanks Danielle!

2008-12-10T17:37:00.001-08:00

Can you guess who this is? I just had to include these couple of pictures...if you guessed Gia, you are CORRECT! She was an adorable baby, extremely photo ready, and had the biggest smile/mouth I have ever seen...well I guess it's kinda like mine! Hence her nickname, "shark mouth".

Giavanna - December 2002 (10 months old)

2008-12-10T17:19:00.000-08:00

Hello family and friends! Are ready for an update for the past month? Okie dokie...here goes...

The weekend of Matt's birthday, November 22, Matt and I and our wonderful friends Scott and Lauren went to Penn State for an awesome football game. Although it was about 11 degrees, with the wind and snow, we had a blast, minus the couple of toes that fell off due to frost bite! Our journey began at around 5am on Saturday morning. We arrived at around 9:30am, parked, fired up the grill and began cooking pork roll and cheese sandwiches.

The snow began to increase just in time for the game! Matt and Scott were in their glory, Lauren and I were a wee bit chilly, to say the least!

It was a fantastic weekend filled with fun, friends, and laughter! Oh and may I add, tons of eating! Hopefully, this will become an annual event...can't wait till next year!

On Monday, 11/24, we celebrated Matt's 31st birthday! Of course Mackie was right there next to the old man, helping blow out the candles!

My Mom, Dad, Nicki and the gang also helped us wish Matt a Happy Birthday!

Matt, the girls, and I spent Thanksgiving at my sister's house.

Not a bad picture taken by Mackie!

Everyday I try to remember to thank God for blessing me with such wonderful parents, that support me through thick and thin! My sister, Nicki is an amazing sister/friend, who is ALWAYS there to help me out no matter what! Even if that means volunteering to keep all three of mine overnight ontop of having FOUR of her own! I could never handle that, but yet, to my sister, it's simple- she just does it...and actually smiles about it! I can't forget to be forever thankful for Matt- Gosh? Where do I begin with that one? His amazing family has welcomed me and the girls with open arms and hearts! His brother Bill and sister-in-law Nicole , cousins Jeff and Danielle, best friends Scott and Lauren, just to name a few, are now part of my family. They don't judge me for what I have been through, but on the other hand, support and love me and the girls as family! I can't begin to express in words what that means to me....but I most definitely spent this Thanksgiving HAPPY! Happy for the wonderful family I have, and the new family I found with Matt! Isn't God amazing?!

Pumpkin Pickin'

2008-10-21T09:13:00.000-07:00

So..... I am behind at updating my blog. But the old saying says it best...Better late, than Never! My sister Nicki and I took the kiddies to Duffield's one afternoon for the hayride that drops you off to pick out your very own pumpkin. All 7 of them- Jessie, Ryan, Joshie, Daniel, Gia, Kaylee and Mackenzie had a blast!

Ryan, Josh and Kaylee....excitedly awaiting the hayride!

Look at us! We are sitting in a pile of hay....

Gia claimed her pumpkin after much thought.

Mackie is saying...this one is MINE!!!!

Kaylee striking a pose in the middle of the patch!

Some Miscellaneous Pixs

2008-09-15T17:12:00.000-07:00

How could I resist adding these pictures??? These are from two weekends ago.

I love Kaylee's expression and the shock on Chloe's face! Too funny!

Check out the Penn State hat on Chloe, isn't this picture priceless?!

Gia reading to Emma.

On Sunday, September 6th, after church...what cuties!

This picture is SO typical of Mackie. The funniest part was she kept saying she was in her "comfy" clothes...and "don't I look too cute, Mommy?!" It was hysterical! I am in trouble when she gets older....

It's been Forever!

2008-09-15T16:18:00.000-07:00

I know, I know, I am a little behind. Nicole says that being back to work isn't a good excuse, but the mere fact that my mornings begin at 4:30am and don't end until about 9 pm, when I finally sit for the very first time, it certainly does count! Right, Nicole? hahaha Anyway, I have been trying to find a second to at least get the girls first day of school pixs on here. Gia and Kaylee started on Thursday, September 4. They looked adorable!

I was shocked on Friday though. I received a note from Kaylee's teacher (whom I know very well because Gia had her last year) that Kaylee had to change her card on the SECOND day of school. Apparently a boy at lunch got slapped by Kaylee and the teacher talked to her and moved her seat. Then, while sitting next to the new girl, Kaylee scratched her. (Now according to Kaylee, the boy touched her food and the girl's leg hit her hand by accident.) Needless to say, I was mortified, had a long talk with Kaylee and all last week she was perfect. Sheww....cause if she turns out a "bad" apple, I will have to duck my head! Mackenzie started on Monday, September 8th. She is in full-day Preschool and rides the bus with Gia and Kaylee.

Mackie, outside of daycare, at about 6:20 am

Mackie and Mikey (my godson, also in Mackie's class...what funny stories we hear!)

Gia and Kaylee ready for the first full week of school

The gang getting off the bus. See my friend Carol and I both work at the Middle School, so we hang out at work from about 1:30 until 4 when the kids get the bus back to the daycare we drop them off at about 6:40 am.

2008 Fish Party

2008-08-25T07:33:00.000-07:00

The "Fish" party is an anual party hosted by my mom and dad every August since 2001. Many people assume we eat tons of fish, hence the name. But that's not it at all...see...my mom decorates every inch of her downstairs in "fish" and you are supposed to come dressed with something fishy on and it's just a great time to hang out with friends and family. This year, I actually used my camera alot and have a ton of great pictures to share.

My sister, Nicki, and her crew all decked out in fish!

The Hampton Family....from left to right....Collette, Dana (holding Gabe), Christy, Sammy and Haley. Bottom right is Joshie swimming by...

Sarah and Carol - not too thrilled I am taking their picture while they eat...

My Mom and Dad with some of their friends.

The Botbyl family striking a family pose!

This is my cousin Stacie (with the cool rainbow glare on her dress from the sun), my Aunt Marianne and ME :)

Aunt Georgean and Nadine...my aunt and cousin :)

Cambelle and Emma had a blast playing in the beach-like area.

And when I asked my friends Scott and Lauren what they thought about my new blog page, this is what they did. Totally JK, thought this was an embarassing photo and just had to include it. Check out my mom peeking her head above the fence in the background.

Lauren and Kaylee- not quite sure what Kaylee is doing....

Well, I hope I didn't bore you with my pixs from Saturday. I know I sure had a great time. It's kinda sad because this is the last week before school starts and I am not quite sure what happened to summer. Oh well, I guess the saying is true - Time flies when you have fun!

Trip to Libby Lou

2008-08-22T16:03:00.001-07:00

Well, can you believe it? Day 2 of my page and already adding new pictures! I am just thrilled to death to be able to share pixs of the girls with everyone! These are adorable. Their dad picked them up for the day and they were supposed to head to Storybook Land, but somehow or another, ended up at Libby Lou. For those of you that don't have girls, your lucky cause you won't have to experience a place like Libby Lou! Anyway, Libby Lou is the place in the mall where they charge you an arm and a leg to do your hair and make-up, something I could do at home, for free. But the girls LOVE it cause it's "professionals", in their minds. So here's how they come home....future performers....

Kaylee, looking pretty in pink!

Gia...can't believe she is 6 already!

Mackie, looking sassy!

Three peas in a pod!

Just had to add this one...Kaylee and Casey

Horseback Riding at Jen & Tom's House

2008-08-21T18:04:00.000-07:00

I will probably shock a lot of you out there because of my new blog site. Like the title? (Thanks Nicole!)
OK, so my initial reason for setting this up, besides the fact that I have been forever fascinated with Danielle and Nicole's sites, was because I wanted to get the pictures on my computer from today (wait till you see how cute!). Thanks to Nicole who introduced me to Picasa (a place for downloading and organizing photos), I was able to accomplish this task in record time. Then, I wanted everyone to be able to see the awesome pictures of the girls horseback riding at Matt and my friend, Jen's, house. I knew it would take me probably about a year to print and display said pictures, so.....here I am a few hours later.....with my blog up and running. Now, all of our friends and family can forever be "in-the-loop" with our lives! Prepare yourself.....for what's to come!

Gia, Kay, and Mackie petting Haylo (not quite sure of spelling). She's a beautiful horse, 5 years young.

Gia riding Partner. It was a beautiful day! Check out the color of the sky!

Kaylee's turn to ride. She sits up so straight...I think she is a natural!

And now Mackie...check out the death grip- she was too scared to ride alone...so yes, I had to hoist my lovely self up there also! How amazing to ride with Mackie!

Not only did the girls get to ride, but they brushed and fed Haylo and Partner. Thanks Jen and Tom!! The girls had a blast!

Our Vacation in the Poconos

2008-08-21T16:46:00.000-07:00

During the week of August 9th, the girls, Matt and I along with my Mom, Dad, Nicki, Jessie, Ryan, Joshie, and Daniel all vacationed in the Poconos. It was totally relaxing...yes...even though there was 12 of us. I actually read 3 books and worked up a decent tan. The girls and their cousins had a great time playing on the "beach", which was actually a sectioned-off part of the lake we stayed on...they didn't seem bothered that they were swimming with the fishies. As a matter of fact, they spent quite some time trying to catch the fish in buckets. The only successful fish catcher was Jessie. Did I mention that her fish was dead? She was very proud of her catch. The kids spent the mornings fishing with Pop-Pop. Things got a little crazy when you have 7 kids all around fishing lines, but my dad kept it all under control.

Gia, Kaylee and Mackie on the "beach".

Mackie, and Matt...you guessed it...on the "beach".

Daniel totally deserved this ride. He waited patiently in his stroller almost the entire day.

Mom and Dad grabbing a slice of pizza. By the way, we are at Knoebel's Amusement Park.

Doesn't Matt look so excited to be surrounded by Mackie, Gia, Kaylee and Josh. Oopss...I think I see Nicki in the background also!

Gia, Jessie, and Kaylee

Not the best pix of me, but don't the girls look adorable?