Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Cecil strikes again
I am proud to say we haven't had any casualties in the Clark Family fish tank in over six months! So, it was quite the surprise when we found "Sparky" (well, half of him), the largest goldfish, floating in the tank tonight.
This is how the conversation went:
Kate: Mommy, what happened to Sparky?
Mom: He must have gotten sick.
Kate: And, Cecil (Turtle) ate him?
Mom: I'm not sure, Honey. I think maybe he just got sick.
Kate (with her best stern brow): You better tell the truth, or your nose will grow!
Joe: BUSTED!
Two hours later on our way up the stairs...
Kate: Mommy, did Sparky die?
Mom: Yes, Honey. I think he went to Fishy Heaven to see Jesus. Maybe Jesus just needed a fishy friend.
Kate: Jesus needs a dead fish?
Mom (holding back laughter): Ummm...let's go brush your teeth.
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Broken Wings
This year, instead of watching the butterflies, we headed to the doctor for an escape all our own.
It seems like just yesterday that little Kate broke her arm. However, four weeks later and one very long hour of cast removal, our butterfly got her wing back. She spent the evening flying about testing our her "new wings".
Sunday, September 20, 2009
Who did it?
If you keep up with this blog, you will know that little Kate broke her arm a mere four weeks ago. Since she could relate to the accident, I shared the news with her first. She cocked her head, sinched her brows, and said, "Did her brother push her off the stool?"
Three year old logic at its best!
So, I want to know...who did it, Pat? Was it Mike or Joe?
Saturday, September 19, 2009
It doesn't matter how you say it, just that you do
Some people choose to express their feelings with words, and others with actions. Whatever your preference, it doesn't matter how you say it, just that you do.
Kate's first beach trip
blankie
Best Friends!
The Booze Hound
GrandMom
Atlantic Footprints with Auntie Aubbie
Sunday, September 13, 2009
Thank you
Yesterday, my oldest and I went Pink. We participated in a Breast Cancer walk. I was dressed in my best sweats and ball cap, while she adorned her first pair of pants since April (she routinely fights for dresses) and her Pink Princess umbrella. With Kate snug in the stroller, we set out in the misty rain, for three miles up and down the crooked streets of our small town...down Main Street, past the High School (yes, I said "the" High School), and through the bus depot, with one, strong woman leading us the entire way.
Little Kate and I wore our pink ribbons, and played "I spy with my little eye" the entire time. We waved happily at each passer by who honked either in encouragement or disbelief at our massive "Pink" group walking in the rain. We concluded the effort at the gymnasium of a local church, and filled our hungry bellies with charitable sandwiches and chocolate covered treats...all monies going to the cause. When they drew winning raffle tickets, little Kate's number was called. She was so excited when they called her name for a "prize", her half eaten turkey and cheese took flight into the bleachers. And, she stole the crowd when they offered her a prize choice of Jewelry, a Day at the Salon, or Bread (Panera)...she quickly chose the bread. What?
Note to self...teach children...like rock, paper, scissors...scissors beats paper...
Jewelry, Salon, Bread...Salon beats Bread.
The crowd got a good laugh out of her excitement, and me a high five from my lucky little one.
I am not sure if it was the chocolate covered treats, winning the prize of "Bread", or just spending the morning with Mom (one can dream), but when asked if she had fun, she responded, "Yes, I want to do it again!"
Saturday, we walked for my new friend, and others I have come to learn have met the fate of this disease. We believe in the possibility of a cure, and will walk again and again if it means we could possibly save a life.
Thursday, September 10, 2009
The beginning of the end
Just like my Mother and so many others did, I placed her in front of the door and snapped a picture in the outfit she picked out, proudly wearing her new backpack and a shy smile.
This update comes just a few hours after my original post. I opened up her backpack and found the first of many art projects. "Those are my flowers, Mommy. I made them just for you!" she said.
I couldn't help but wrap my arms around her. These are by far the best flowers I have received. I will cherish them...always. Snuffle, sniff, sniff...
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Leisurely Labor Day
Backyard picnics: This smile represents Kate's first taste of Kool-Aid.
If you take a close look at her left leg...you will notice the display of band aids..still there.
Big sister taking a lesson from her Dad.
Sunday, September 6, 2009
I am stuck on Band Aid brand
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
Believe
Recently, I was introduced to an incredible young woman. In May 2008, at the age of 27, she was diagnosed with breast cancer. Less than one year later, in April 2009, after enduring a mastectomy, chemotherapy, and radiation, doctors discovered the cancer had spread to her brain. Despite the events of the last year and her honest prognosis, she has remained upbeat, remembers to smile, pushes through the rough days to enjoy the good, and understands that laughter and love is the best medicine!
I have always believed the people you meet in life, you meet for a reason...good or bad. For this one incredibly inspiring young woman, I believe in her fight, I believe in her will to live, I believe she is teaching me, like so many others, to live like there's endless possibilities. The smile on her face simply makes me believe in the fight for a cure...
So, on Saturday, September 12, I am walking three miles in a benefit walk to support awareness of the disease and support my new friend...one incredibly strong young woman.
If you, too, believe in the cause, and wish to support the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation and this incredible young woman, you can sponsor me in the walk. Any amount of donation is appreciated, and can be donated via paypal.com to joeclark21@yahoo.com.