A Day in the Life of Catz

Lets Play The "What's In The Potty?" Game

2009-03-14T22:19:00.016-05:00

Hello Friends,

Ok, now with three very little boys in the house you are bound to have your days and your days and your days. And then there are THOSE days. Like the days we play a little game in our house I like to call What's In The Potty? The boys play it very well I might add. Papa does not like to play at all. Mama, well I try to stay out of the fun, let it be Father Son bonding time. This is how it goes. Someone goes potty, seems to be Peanut that gets to be the lucky one more than anyone else, and keep in mind this is the child who cannot stand to be dirty or touch dirty things. Well this person then tries to flush but potty almost floods rather than flush, I might add here wearing some sort of waterproof bottom slipper is almost a must for this game. Then comes Papa's part of the game to go fishing for the unknown. What could it be today? A pencil, a hot wheel, could just be a whole lot of toilet paper wadded in balls, or better yet the entire role still on the cardboard tube. Or how about six little socks. Could be a binky or maybe one, two, or three of the play fish from tubby time, could be a pull-up or pair of undies. Now even might want to stretch your imagination just a bit and it could be the tail gate to the carrier truck that three year old is missing. And the guessing goes on and on and on, and oh the anticipation. But the best part of the game is just starting as Papa gets to pull the toilet off the floor because it is never just stuck at the bottom no they had to flush and flush and flush to see how many times it took for their surprise item to go bye bye, it just just adds to the fun of the game. With the mounting excitement Papa comes in with rubber gloves, bucket, screwdriver, garbage bags over the arms, mask, and goggles. This game may not be for those with weak stomaches like Papa. But Father Son bonding is so very important. Some days it takes a little longer than others but alas the item for today is . . . it's it's it's a bar of soap. Not just any bar but the special custom made expensive Psoriorsis bar from Etsy. Yay mystery solved, for today anyway. Join us next week and we will play the "What did you draw on your brother?" game. Yes, one of THOSE days. They are happening way to often lately and of course no one did it, lol.

Never a dull moment, never a dull moment. So I came across this picture just yesterday and thought it could solve part of the mystery game. It's a puzzle. you need to figure out the puzzle to get your TP. Hope you are not in a hurry.

Bless you all friends,

Mama Cat

Sick Sick and More Sick

2009-03-12T17:13:00.012-05:00

Hello Friends,

What a week this has been for the Catz Family. It started Sunday night with Thumper and Peanut having small fever and cough/congestion. They stayed home from school for two days. Then it hit me like a brick. Fever, achey, achey body and light cough. My cough only got worse and as I am writing the coughing spells have me making oodles of typos. And then there was the hot one minute I could sit in the freezer to soooo cold there were not enough blankets in the house to keep me warm. Hubby was loving me:) I went to immediate care today. I have pneumonia, double ear infection, and throat infection. WOW. So it was back home with inhalers, antibiotics, and steroids. I haven't felt this crappy since pregnancy. I also have asthma but not that bad until I get hit with cold symptoms. Then Jelly Bean came next with cough and fever of 103, ouch. He also has pneumonia, which is par for the course with his damaged lungs. But thank the Lord Almighty nothing we haven't gone through before and able to get through again with oxygen, nebulizers and of course the Lord's touch. Lets hope Spud and Cookie don't get this, it's hard on the body.

You know me I always love to share pictures so here is a funny I found the other day. Peanut thinks it is just hilarious.

Blessings to you all,

Mama Cat

Happy Birthday Spud

2009-03-08T20:36:00.006-05:00

Today is the second birthday for Spud. My baby isn't a baby anymore according to six year old, he is a big boy now, lol. The highlight of his gifts was a board book that makes a cat meow when you push the button. He opened that and all else pretty much was a fly by. We decided to go to Olive Garden for supper, he loves the noodles, soup, and of course the breadsticks. We topped the day off with a giant cookie for cake. Of course the candles were his highlight there. At bedtime he tried to take all his gifts to bed with him, he is so cute. I will post a couple pictures tomorrow when I can get them off the camera.

God bless you all,

Mama Cat

Happy SonDay

2009-03-08T19:32:00.016-05:00

Hello Friends,

Another SonDay already. The weeks go by fast it seems.

I want to share another of my favorite pictures of Jesus. This particular picture carried me through all my trials as I watched my little Jelly Bean go through his many many surgeries. I always had this picture taped to the side of his incubator, bed, or oxygen tent so others new just who would provide the ultimate care for him. It was such an awesome reminder to me that no matter what was happening that day it would be ok because Our Lord had Jelly Bean right where He wanted him, in His arms.

"Snuggling Infant" by Jean Keaton

You know, God is waiting for you to hand over all your troubles to Him. He never expects you to go through anything alone. You must remember bad things don't happen because God is necessarily letting them happen. Bad things are often a result of sin in this world. That sin will often trickle down to the innocent by stander. And when it does be comforted in knowing God will never give you more than you can handle when He is a part of situation.

May the Lord bless your week.

Mama Cat

Coin Pouch Give Away

2009-03-05T10:59:00.004-06:00

I have this Etsy chat friend who does awesome give aways, she also does some awesome work herself. Her name is jleighdesignz. Right now she is doing a give away of a beautiful coin pouch from another Etsy seller Davie & Chiyo. Hurry along and put in your chance to win. The contest ends tomorrow.

Here is the link to her blog so you can enter: http://jleighdesignz.blogspot.com/.

You can also visit her shop on Etsy here: http://jleighdesignz.etsy.com .

Good luck everyone.

May the Lord bless you richly,

Mama Cat

Top Ten Reasons to Have Children

2009-03-05T09:06:00.007-06:00

#10. To have endless mounds of laundry.

#9. Pay back for when you are senile.

#8. To have your own zoo in your house.

#7. To learn precise balance as you make your way through the toys.

#6. So you can relearn all the subjects you hated in school.

#5. To learn to be a short order cook.

#4. So you can learn to be a great referee.

#3. Because your life is just simply too quiet and alone time is so over rated.

#2. Doing dishes is your favorite past time.

#1. Because when its good its really good.

Can you tell we need winter to get over and we have been cooped up in the house wwwaayyyy too long, lol.

Thank you Lord that I have children to complain about.

Blessings to you all,
Mama Cat

Not my child, but too cute, some days I need all the prayers I can get.

No One Told Me All The Rules

2009-03-03T09:52:00.003-06:00

Hello Friends,

Ok, when I signed up for parenthood there were a few details that were left out of my guidebook:

1. Parents never ever get a good nights sleep, never.

2. Even when children wake up at 4:00 AM they have energy beyond my comprehension.

3. That there is not enough coffee in the world to keep me awake.

4. The house is never quiet; I think if it were the silence would be deafening.

5. There is never enough time in the morning to get ready for school.

6. Children will always forget their lunches even when it hangs on the door knob out.

7. They never remember there is a test to study for till its bedtime.

8. Attitude comes with age, even at an early age of 10.

9. That cleaning the kitchen after every meal included the use of a shovel.

10. That I would need a large supply of safety locks and bungee cords to keep little ones out of everything.

Oh what a morning. Thank you Lord for all the mishaps with my children. I couldn't imagine a day without them.

Wait one more.

11. There would never be enough cheese in the world to go with their "whine".

Blessings to you all,

Mama Cat

Walking on Water

2009-03-01T20:40:00.006-06:00

Hello Friends,

I was browsing through some cat pics tonight, my favorite past time, when I came across this one. I thought it was Sonday fitting. Hope you enjoy.

May the Lord bless you in your week ahead!!!!!

Mama Cat

Happy Sonday

2009-03-01T12:11:00.009-06:00

Hello Friends,

Stopping in for my Sunday prayer and another favorite picture post.

Todays favorite picture of mine comes from Simon Dewey. There are so many to choose from this artist, it is hard to pick a favorite so I am certain you will be seeing more of him posted here.

The Lord is My Shepherd by: Simon Dewey

Almighty Father,

Today I raise up to You many that know you and many that have strayed away. I pray that You will touch the hearts of those who have stopped by my blog. Shine the Light of Christ into each one that they can make a difference to Your Kingdom. Provide for each in this struggling economy. Touch those who made need your healing hand. Comfort those who may be waiting to go from this life into life eternal. May each who read this know that ever step they take in life, you have gone before them taking on all that they will endure so that You know their struggles and will help them through even the darkest moments. Forgive those who have sinned against you by the blood of Christ. Sin, it comes in many forms, help all to keep from the many temptations that Satan throws their way. Provide a week that is over flowing with blessings. Saturate each one with your love.
I ask all of this in Jesus name.
Amen
Mama Cat

Easter Eggs

2009-02-28T21:10:00.007-06:00

Hello Friends,

Hubby has designed me a new mini loom. Just the right size to use cotton yarn and fine gauge. Thanks to my friend Handcraftedbykaren@etsy.com I managed to get one egg done in about 12 hours, lol. I like my new looms hubby has made, keeps my stitches so tight and close together as well as allowing me to use small yarn. Can't wait to see what I can design next.

Many Blessings To You All,
Mama Cat

Read the Bible

2009-02-27T19:36:00.005-06:00

Hello Friends,

I am on a mission to read my Bible this year from start to finish twice. Well, actually read it once and listen/read it a second time using the awesome dramatized cds of the Bible. I have read parts of the Bible my whole life but never have made it start to finish.

I was on a mission to do this last year after losing my Mom but instead have been in an overwhelming sadness that words do not even begin to explain. I have gotten somewhat better and have realized that in order to help my children through the death of their Grandmother I must first help myself. Thanks Jodie and Pastor Erik for pointing that out to me in a very loving way.

I have always taken great enjoyment in reading the Bible and listening to Christian music so I am hoping that's what I really need to help me get a handle on life again and break free from this bubble I seem to be trapped in. I say bubble because its not like a dark hole that I can't see a light but rather a clear bubble I can see everything going on around me but can't participate. It's not a good feeling let me tell you.

The Lord asks us to have an intimate relationship with Him. How do we do that? Well, how do you get to know other friends you have. You talk with them often, multiple times a day if they are a really good friend. You think of them often. You want to spend time with them and often. You share everything about yourself holding nothing back. Well, how do you do this with the Lord you may ask. First of all you go to knees and ask Him to enter into your life. You "talk" to Him often during the day through prayer. And you learn of His ways and love for you by reading His Word. If you wanted to learn more about me the best way to do that would be to read my journal. Look at the Bible as God's journal. The more you read it, the more you become consumed by wanting to learn more about God and what makes Him tick. And the more you learn of Him the more you want to be a part of a deep intimate relationship with Him and be overwhelmed by the blessings He will shower on you. You will be so excited to spend time with our Heavenly Father, you will want to start and end your day with Him and place Him everywhere in between. And don't forget to just be still and listen for the Lord's guidance. Being quiet is ok too. Try it out and see what I mean.

I would love to have some Bible reading partners. Please join me on my adventure. You pray for me and I will pray for you, encouragement from others is sometimes all we need to get moving and stay focused.If you would like to join me in my quest to read the Bible start to finish let me know. Thus far I have made it through creation, the fall into sin, the birth of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Noah has built a boat, the earth was destroyed by water, Joseph was thrown into a pit but God had bigger plans than that for him. Joseph has been rescued and sold into slavery. Joseph has interpreted dreams with the guidance of God. Joseph has saved Egypt from seven years of drought. Joseph forgave his brothers and welcomed them to Egypt and made a home from them. Pharaoh has died and a new Pharaoh has taken the Israelites into slavery. Moses has taken a basket ride down the Nile. The plagues of Egypt have made an impact and Israel is being led to the Promise Land. Moses has spoken with the Lord and has passed along the ten commandments. Moses and the Israelites are ready to build the Ark of the Covenant according to God's exact directions. Whew . . . I have gotten pretty far. And if you let yourself look past the big words you can't pronounce you will really enjoy your reading. Find a Bible that is easy to read. Sorry if I offend someone, but the King James Version is not the Bible to read for the first time. I think many would become overwhelmed and give up. Save that for your second time through.

I will keep you updated as I move through the best selling book of all times, the Bible.

May the Lord of all creation, shine His light on you today and every day.

Mama Cat

Wooden Looms

2009-02-24T20:18:00.007-06:00

Hello Friends,

Today was a busy day running around getting new supplies such as lumber, yarn, and fabric. Some times it is hard for the little guys to ride around in the truck for the day but actually did pretty good today. They love going to the lumber store where they can get the tape measure that's attached to a large ball. They measure as much wood as they can. They stand around like Papa Cat sizing up which piece to buy, it is very comical. The owners were at the shop today and both just loved having the boys there, they took some time to come out to talk and visit with them. The were very Grandparenty, lol. After we got back I had hubby busy making me some new looms. I tried out the loom knitting quite some time ago but life got busy and I put it away. I have decided to bring it back out and try a few projects. I love the look of knit and wish I could use needles to knit but just can't seem to get the knack of it, my crocheting is much faster. The Knifty Knitter plastic looms are nice for some things. I made Thumper a beautiful furry cheetah scarf (black and gold) and a very pretty black furry shawl for Christmas. However, when I go to knit other things I just think for me the plastic looms are just too loose. The reason I love the look of knit is the very close and tight stitches. I thought about purchasing the fine gauge and extra fine gauge wooden looms you can find online but wow what a price tag. So, since hubby is quite talented I just had him make me one. He started me out with a fine gauge which works great with two strand of four ply yarn to give you a very nice tight stitch. I am working on making an infant swaddling cocoon which I will post as I get going more, I had to rip it out and start over three times, ugh. I am going to have him make me an extra fine gauge tomorrow so I can make a nice light cotton infant swaddling cocoon for the summer. I hope it goes like I want it to. So here is the fine gauge loom that he has made, still needs a bit of prettying up before we are able to post in our shop, but that won't take long. If anyone out there thinks they might like to purchase a wooden loom from us please visit our shop at catzinthehouse@etsy.com

Blessings to you all,

Mama Cat

Adding Christ

2009-02-22T23:59:00.009-06:00

Hello Friends,

Happy Sonday. I thought I would start something new to my blog. Since the Lord is first and foremost in my life and I am called by Him to spread the Good News I thought it would be fitting to share some of my favorite pictures of Christ on Sundays. I am a clip art junkie I must admit. Saving pictures and clipart is so much fun to me. All right then here is my first loved picture among many.

This one is titled "Let Him In" By: Greg Olson
http://www.gregolsengallery.com/

Haven't met Him yet? Been a stranger to Him lately? He's calling your name, can you hear Him. Visit the church of your choice and learn about God's amazing saving grace given freely to you by the blood of his Son Jesus Christ.

May the Lord bless your week.
Mama Cat

It's Raining Bean Bag Pellets

2009-02-20T22:17:00.005-06:00

Hello Friends,

Well this afternoon our little Jelly Bean was having the time of his life. We had those lap trays that are filled with the styrofoam beads. You notice I said "had". We were in the kitchen getting supper and heard him laughing in the family room. I went in to see what was sooooo funny and to my surprise he was covered in styrofoam beads. Now you all know just how clingy those silly things are. His hair looks like he has a hair net on, lol. And of course anyone who walked near him or the pile of beads was like a foam magnet. It was all over Thumper's hair as she tried to help. It covered the carpet everywhere. I think I vacuumed Jelly Bean off at least five times. I would get him cleaned up and start cleaning up the rest with Papa Cat including all the toys that were on the floor as well and he would try and "help" and be covered head to toe again. The more we cleaned the more they blew everywhere. Thumper said she would help and take the broken lap tray out to the garbage however, she didn't say she would leave a massive trail through the house to get there, lol. I was totally amazed at how many of those silly things could fit into one lap tray. I believe I will be finding those silly things forever. The pictures really don't give the entire picture because he ran to the couch and sat and laughed when I came into the room. Like "what, me, what did I do?"

May The Lord Bless You All,

Mama Cat

Caged Wrestle Mania

2009-02-13T23:01:00.014-06:00

Hello Friends,

So for Christmas this year the three little kittens got indoor trampolines. Yes, I said indoor trampolines. The outdoor trampoline is one of Jelly Bean's favorite things to do so when I came across the enclosed indoor trampoline I just couldn't pass it up. It is a great source of strength and balance exercise for him. However, as they began playing together, all five of them, it appeared to look more like caged wrestling. See for yourself. By the way I had no idea this was going on Thumper was the photographer.

Look, I can bounce higher than you.

Wanna make a bet

I am sooo sneaky

With my trusty forcefield blankie, I can keep anyone away.

Ready

Cannonball

Second thought me and blankie are out of here.

Told you I could bounce higher, lol.

Oh the joys of parenthood.

May the Lord bless you richly.

Mama Cat

Basketball Games

2009-02-02T20:34:00.009-06:00

Hello Friends,

Well tonight we had another basketball game for Thumper. Sorry pictures didn't turn out as well as they usually do. Sadly, they lost again. They have lost every game this season. Part of the problem is they are an all 5th grade team that usually plays with teams that have a majority of 6th graders. We only had one sixth grader so she moved up to the seventh and eighth grade team. So most of the players just tower over our girls. Tonights game started off very close tonight, thought they would win and then I don't know what happened. However, she has so much fun playing. Sometimes she is rather funny to watch. This child of mine does not have one single ounce of tom boy in her. She floats about the court like a graceful butterfly. She is very polite when she guards. She definately does not take the game nearly as serious as some of her team mates. She has this playful look like she is playing basketball in the back yard with her brothers.

Lord, thank you for this special child of mine. She is so fun.

Blessings to you all,

Mama Cat

Winter Blahs

2009-01-31T07:28:00.003-06:00

Hello Friends,

Oh my goodness do we have a bad case of the winter blahs at our house. The kittens are so very crabby these days. The house we are living in doesn't help much as it is very small and they seem to be on top of each other. Of course lack of sunlight I know makes us all a bit blah. Cookie gets up way to early, sometimes 4:30 am and proceeds to wake much of the rest of the house. And let me tell you waking Thumper at all is not a good idea. She will growl at everyone for the rest of the day. Speaking of Thumper, she has been a handful lately. She took the death of my Mother very hard and here 14 months later still having much difficulty coping. We are taking her to see a counselor but just still isn't helping much. She is so mad at the world, feels cheated, feels lied to, hurt, just to name a few. Please keep her in your prayers, she needs Divine healing.

We are going to try and take kiddos outside for a bit today it is supposed to be in the 30's. Peanut and Spud hate the cold and zero temperatures just are not for them no matter how I bundle them up. I will try and post some pictures later if we get outside like planned. We still have snow on the ground so maybe they will sled on the hill in the back yard. I think being outside sure would help get rid of some of the cooped up winter blah feelings. However, if that doesn't work don't be surprised if you drive by the house and find five kittens out by the recycle bin, lol.

Many blessings to you,
Mama Cat

Funny Email

2009-01-22T19:19:00.006-06:00

Hello Friends,

I got this really funny e-mail from a friend the other day and just had to share. Whether true or not, it was too funny.

Blessings to you all,
Mama Cat

MAKE SURE TO READ MOM'S REPLY BELOW THE PICTURE

Dear Mrs. Jones,

I wish to clarify that I am not now, nor have I ever been, an exotic dancer. I work at Home Depot and I told Sarah how hectic it was last week before the blizzard hit. I told her we sold out every single shovel we had. Then I found one more in the back room, and several people were fighting over who would get it. Sarah's picture does NOT show me dancing around a pole. It's supposed to depict me selling the last snow shovel we had at Home Depot. From now on I will remember to check her homework more thoroughly before she turns it in.

Sincerely,
Mrs. Smith

Pray For Our New President

2009-01-20T12:33:00.005-06:00

Hello Friends,

I just thought I would make a quick stop in. I wanted to encourage everyone to take a moment to pray for our newest president Barack Obama. Whether you wanted him in the White House or not, he is here. He has a plate full that he needs to clean up. He will need wisdom, strength, support from fellow Americans, encouragement, and above all else guidance from the Lord God Almighty. I pray he will walk the walk, he made some strong promises so to speak and I hope he will follow through no matter how hard it may be. I really hope he will make change, no matter whose toes he steps on. Now I am also very realistic, it seems no politician is truly honest, but just says what we want to hear to get the position they want. Some may say these are harsh words but thats ok. I want change. I want a President who doesn't feel like he has to follow the "in" crowd, willing to look outside the box, willing to go the extra mile, recognize their are many people in this country who live simple lives that need help. To me Mr. Obama seems more down to earth, more approachable than those who have come before him, but maybe that is because he is from my area. So please take a moment not only today but each day to pray for our people in office, they need our prayers.

A Prayer for ObamaWednesday November 5, 2008

[Please add your prayers as well.]

Our prayer today, Our Father, is for President-Elect Barack Obama.
Our prayers include:That You, the infinite font of wisdom, might grant him wisdom daily.That You, the loving God of all, might grant him love for you and for others, including our enemies.That You, the holy and righteous God of justice, might empower him to do what is right in all that he does.That You, the Lord, might grant him the charisma of insight to lead in this turbulent world and time.That You, the Healer, might grant him the grace of reconciling damaged relations in this country and in the world about us.That You, the God of Life, might grant him a commitment to act for all -- the unborn and born, the young and old, the civilian and the soldier -- to preserve life and honor that each of us is fashioned in the image of God.That You, the Father, might grant him the time and wisdom to father his two young daughters and love Michelle, his wife.And that You, the God of all comfort, might grace him and his family as they mourn the loss of his grandmother.Lord, hear our prayer.Through Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.

Mr. Obama may the Lord God who put you in the position of President of the United States be your first advisor of the White House.

May the Lord bless you till we meet again.

Mama Cat

Catching Up

2009-01-19T11:08:00.002-06:00

Hello Friends,

It has been a long time since I have last visited my blog. There have been so many things going on that have kept me away. Of course, being a Mama of these busy little children has been the first. We also made a move in September after having our landlord lose his marbles and become violent to the family, I put that mildly. With the economy in the slump and landlord wasn't selling his homes he went on an out of control rampage and we as well as other renters were his targets. He was claiming his renters hadn't paid him and was trying to collect extra money. He made several threats to us and his other renters that made us uncomfortable to be anywhere near him. For the safety of the family we went to a hotel temporarily and moved the entire house into storage. Two weeks later we found a nice home still in the area and only five minutes from school. It is an older neighborhood with many "grandparent" neighbors. The kids have really taken a liking to their new Nana's and Pappy's. We are still keeping our eyes pealed for a farmette to buy but nothing has become available just yet.

The kids are doing well in school. Thumper is in the fifth grade and Peanut is in the first grade. Peanut is so excited he has learned to read this year, he has excelled so well. Thumper is adjusting to having a different teacher for each subject and loves moving from room to room. We were going to put Jelly Bean in school this year at the Montissouri School but his health has not been the best and so we decided to delay another year. Jelly Bean continues to do well for him. He has had some lung setbacks over the past few months but that is usual for him at this time of year. He adds new words slowly but takes great pride when he accomplishes one. Cookie is Cookie, rotten as ever, thinks he rules the household and the other kiddos. He finally decided "he" wanted to use the potty. That was a long battle to say the least. He doesn't like to have help doing anything, and dos everything in life when he is ready and his way. He is something else. I guess the Lord needed to give me one to keep our life exciting. Spud is going to be two soon, that's hard to believe. He is our little cuddler and I love it. He doesn't like strangers at is not socialable like all the rest. He would rather just stick to Mama and Papa.

Our Etsy shop has done us very well, slow and steady I like to say. We added a new line of oak childrens toys, you should check us out.

Well, I know that was a brief catch up but at least going to try and get back in touch. I figure if I have some followers I need to give them something to read, lol.

May the Lord bless you richly till we meet again.

Mama Cat

No More Tube Feedings, No More Bottles, No More Pediasure

2008-07-25T09:12:00.007-05:00

Hello All. I can't believe the time has finally come that we can say good bye to tube feedings, bottles, and pediasure. For Jelly Bean it has been a long hard road. He has been tube fed since one month when he couldn't take in enough calories to keep up with his heart condition. Then during open heart surgery he forgot how to suck and swallow. His reflux was so bad we hard a very hard time getting anything in his mouth without gagging to the point of throwing up. However, with the awesome help of our feeding therapist Ms Megan Jelly Bean is now able to finally eat anything in site, drink all he wants, and maintain his caloric need. We are so excited. The feeding button is being left in for now till we make sure he can take in enough fluids. But wow what a step for Jelly Bean. Next we have Cookie and Spud who had failure to thrive because of horrible acid reflux. So these two needed all the extra calories they could get and couldn't make big changes like taking their bottle away for fear they might stop taking the pediasure. So these past two weeks we dove in head first and took away all the pediasure and bottles. I am happy to report they are both doing great. Eating pretty good and only need to put in a calorie supplement in their milk, from a cup. It is so nice to sit down to a normal family meal, well as normal as the Catz family can be. Time to head off to Mama Land. May the Lord bless you richly till we meet again. Mama Cat

Above was some bubble fun in the big tub I thought I would share. Spud doesn't like bubbles or the big tub so he chose not to be in this one.

No Peanuts In The Catz House

2008-07-11T08:35:00.004-05:00

Oh my goodness yesterday we had the scare of our life. All the kittens have a peanut allergy and Thumper had finally tested negative so wanted to try it out. I wanted to do this at home before school starts because so many treats at school seem to have peanuts that she has to pass up. Well . . . one of the boys gave Spud some peanut butter. They were all on the deck and I was fixing drinks in the house. Spud started crying and his cry did not sound normal at all. After a few minutes and calling a friend who has more experience in this emergency than I, I had to administer one of the other kittens epi-pens. After speaking to my friend he continued to get worse. His throat was starting to swell shut, harder to breath and gums were swelling. He also had hives the size of my pinky nail on his chest and tummy. Needless to say we had to call 911 and he was taken via an ambulance to the hospital. Everything turned out ok, the Doctor gave him a high dose of benedryl and steroids. He will continue with the steroids for another week. They said he could continue to present symptoms for another week as the peanuts pass through his system.

Once again a testimony that the Lord always cares for my children when I can't. Thank goodness.

Other than that Thumper celebrated her tenth birthday last week on July 3. I decided to give her a special treat and head out for the day by ourselves. I think she gets overwhelmed with all these boys all the time and needed some private Mama time. We made our way to some craft stores for crafting supplies and had lunch at Panara Bread. She loves their broccoli and cheddar soup and has since she was one. Finished the afternoon with ice cream from Culver's and coffee at Barnes and Noble where we browsed through some horse and cat books. It was really nice to have some time to ourselves. Later that evening she decided to eat out at Houlihans for their macaroni and cheese. We laughed and said we could have made that at home. But I guess its the ambiance. I can't believe my baby is ten. She is growing up so fast and looking more grown up ever day.

Well I must go referee the boys and will catch ya all later.

May the Lord bless you richly till we meet again.

Mama Cat

Haircuts For All

2008-06-29T22:39:00.005-05:00

Well, I think March might have been the last time we made it for haircuts. My hairdresser and I joked that soon we would be going in for our bi annual haircuts. I said well we are almost at quarterly. Just seems like there is never enough time in the day to go for haircuts and since our hairdresser does it from her home on the side we have to also work around her schedule. But I have to admit its more the craziness in our house than hers.

Peanut decided he wanted a new hair style and got his spiked. I figured summer was the best time to try it out and would have time to grow back in before school started. Actually it turned out pretty good. It doesn't stay spiked long though because his brothers think its pretty cool to touch. And of course he keeps touching it too and the gel just softens each time.

Everyone else now at least looks normal and like little boys again. And I have to admit mine was driving me crazy. I know mine is getting pretty out of control when I can brush it out of my eyes from the wind. Thats really long for me. Papa Cat almost went for a buzz, he says just in case this bi annual thing takes place.

Ok gotta run kittens need me as usual.

Blessings,
Mama Cat

Missing My Mother

2008-06-24T11:36:00.011-05:00

This is Grandma Cat with my Kittens. This was taken in April 2007 just after Spud was born and just before her health issues came about.

Well its been a few days. I have been having a rough time for several days. Saturday was my Mother's Birthday, she would have been 82. You see on November 20, 2007 the Lord called my Mother Home. In May of last year she had been diagnosed as having had a stroke. And again in July she was diagnosed with another stroke and doctors wouldn't let her go back to work. Yes, at the young age of 81 my Mother still worked. She loved to be around others, such a people person. And she had a lot of time on her hands with my Dad being gone. Since she couldn't go back to work for three weeks I thought I would bring her up to stay with my family. Sadly after about a week her condition was deteriorating and I took her Rush University Hospital in Chicago. Immediately they had diagnosed her with two brain tumors, she never had a stroke at all, the hospital where she lives had misdiagnosed her. Within four days her thinking skills went dramatically down hill as well as her ability to get around. A few days later the doctors removed a tumor the size of a golf ball, how do you miss a tumor that large is what I would like to know. I feel someone should be held accountable but no one will help. When she came home she made the decision to stay with my family, I feel so blessed that she chose us. It was the love we have for our Lord and the happiness in our home because of it. I know many of my siblings still are very unhappy with me because she made this choice. But I know in my heart that I did what the Lord asked of me and what my Mother asked of me. I feel Mom was a very strong willed person and if she really wanted to go back to her house she would have said so. So after the surgery she actually did really well and was making a big turn around with her thinking skills and mobility. Then she decided to begin chemotherapy and radiation and there was a new drug on the market that was holding some promising results. The down side was doctors needed to remove the second tumor to determine what it was before they could treat. My Mother never re cooperated from this surgery. She was doing better and then on one of our weekly visits to the radiologist he spoke of regret for doing the second surgery due to how it turned out and how well she was doing prior. Because my Mother was not thinking as clearly she had it in her mind he meant she needed a third surgery. She didn't want another surgery and immediately gave up. I just couldn't convince her the doctor was talking about the surgery before and there would be no more surgeries. I think she gave it a good fight. I wouldn't have traded having her with me no matter how much work it was. It provides me with great comfort knowing I got to help her make the journey Home. I wish you could have known my Mother, she was such a giving, loving, faithful person. In those last few months together her walk with the Lord became my walk with the Lord. I never thought my faith could get stronger but it did and still is. My prayer life has increased so much. But I still miss her terribly. We did so much together such as crocheting, crafting, sewing, jewelry, and quilting. My children adored her and she was teaching Thumper and Peanut a little of everything too. We really appreciated everything she did in our lives. I want her back so badly even though I know that is not possible. Losing your Mother is a very difficult thing to explain. It leaves such an empty space in life, that makes life not quite so important anymore. And I know many say oh focus on the happy things you did together. Remember how much she loved me. I do those things but it doesn't make the pain or emptiness go away. I feel robbed, I am only 41. But I feel my children have been robbed of knowing and loving their Grandmother. I guess that's the hard part of being the youngest of nine, ya have babies when Grandma's are getting older. She loved them all and she had such a special place in her heart for Jelly Bean. Thumper has had the hardest time with my Mother's death. But that was something we knew back when my Dad passed. Papa Cat and I would always say we hoped my Mother passed away when Thumper was much older because we knew how hard it would be. They had a very special relationship. So I try move forward, yearning for her hugs and love and taking comfort she is in the hands or our Savior.

So no matter what kind of relationship you have with your parents take the time to tell them just how much you love them. Learn everything you can from them, even learn something new with them. Share your joys and your sorrows. Make them some of the most important people in your life. Spend as much time as you can with them and if children are in your life allow them to be awesome grandparents. Life is too short.

Blessings,

Mama Cat

This is Grandpa and Grandma Cat on their 50th wedding anniversary. Papa Cat and I sent them on an all paid trip to the Grand Ole Opry in Tennessee. Something they had always wanted to do.

Playful Kittens

2008-06-20T14:45:00.007-05:00

Well today the kittens thought they would create their own way of playing. Papa Cat got a large package in the mail therefore large box. Peanut broke the box down flat and they all took turns sledding down the stairs on the box. There were lots of laughs, sore bums, and a few tears when they fell off. But I guess well worth it because they continue to play the sledding game.

Peanut lost his first tooth, he has been waiting forever to lose one. Eating an apple and thought it was a seed so spit it out. Oh that was a lot of fun trying to find the tooth to leave for the tooth fairy, mmmm wonder what she'll bring to him.

Our little business on etsy has been doing us pretty good at least two sales every week. Papa Cat wants more I'm happy with slow and steady. I'm hoping the holidays will boost things a bit. We are brainstorming some new ideas to add, should have some new things listed within a couple of weeks. Currently I am working on new hang tags for our products and some new packaging to help things look more professional and dress things up a bit.

Jelly Bean decided to go out on his own the other day. He made it three blocks down and was on his way back to the house when someone found him. Of course he can't talk yet so she had no idea who he belonged to, and we are new to the community. The Lord directed her in the right direction, a friend from church lives in the direction he was coming from so she assumed she would know, well she knew where he belonged only because we know each other from church. I am so lucky the Lord watches after my children when I cannot. He crossed a pretty busy main street in the subdivision not once but twice and it has a bit of a hill so people dont' always see whats up ahead. I had no idea he had gotten out and had just asked all the other kittens where he was and they said in the basement playing and they were just down there so I thought they knew what they were talking about. I was fixing supper so didn't check. Then someone came knocking at the door and to my surprise carrying my JellyBean. Needless to say my heart stopped as the story unfolded.

Ok off to a kitten run as usual. God's Blessings to all. Mama Cat

Etsy Friend Needs Your Help

2008-06-17T10:59:00.005-05:00

Please visit this ebay listing. One of my Etsy chat friends, Deconstructress, is trying to raise funds for one of her friends. Someone lost her 15 year old daughter to a tragic accident. Deconstructress is doing her part to help her friend won't you have a heart and help this family. I'm sure if the auction is over you can contact Deconstructress either through Ebay or Etsy to learn of other ways to help this family. Every little bit can help.

http://cgi.ebay.com/Custom-Designed-Dress-Fairy-Faerie-Costume_W0QQitemZ270246373702QQihZ017QQcategoryZ63861QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

Blessings,
Mama Cat

Rough Nights

2008-06-17T10:30:00.006-05:00

Well it has been some rough nights in our house. Thumper has insomnia, no real reason and she is sooooo crabby when she doesn't get enough sleep. We decided to split Jelly Bean and Cookie they play way too much and keep each other up or wake each other up, makes for more crabby little ones. Unfortunately Jelly Bean doesn't handle change too well so takes some time to get to sleep. Jelly Bean and Cookie however still are getting up at 4:45 AM, oh how I need some sleep with no interruptions.

Father's Day went well for Papa Cat. He got a few new tools and hope to list some new creations on our Etsy site soon. I'm sure soap dishes will be on his list he can't seem to make enough of them, lol. Kids and I made crab legs and seven layer salad for his dinner, it's his favorite. Also watched the trilogy of Indiana Jones in preparation of the going to the new movie. It was really a lot of fun. Truly what a blessing God gave us to be parents. We feel honored that he chose us to have so many children. I know there are many out there that are unable to have children and I feel your pain, I was there once myself. Adoption sometimes I think is a joke, can touch base on that at a later time. I know some have been able to do adoption but for many the expense is ridiculous. I don't understand why it has to cost so much when the first priority should be to get these children out of the system and into a stable loving home. Again thats another topic for another day.

Another year without my Dad has made Father's Day still difficult. My Father passed away on November 20, 2003. He had spleen and liver cancer which was found too late and made its way through the body. It has been six long years without him and I miss him a lot. I miss that my children have missed out on having Grandpa around, he really would have enjoyed all these boys and he loved Thumper so much. I don't think we ever get over the loss of a parent.

So I have a funny to tell on Cookie. Over the weekend he found a permanent blue marker and decided to color his testicles, yes his testicles. He thought he was so funny. I'm really surprised Jelly Bean wasn't a part of the fun and they didn't color Spud's as well. A picture would be worth a thousand words but you all will have to imagine this one on your own. Oh the leverage I have on him some day, lol. Cookie is something else, just can't find the words to describe him. He thinks he is the boss of all, because he does no wrong, not, always finds trouble to get into, makes his own trouble when he can't find any, daredevil (he will have the first broken bone of the family), and very sneaky. Not even sure if that scratches the surface of his character, lol. But ya gotta love him, he looks so innocent out in public, yes he knows how to work the public too.

I have made some great friends on Etsy these days, they are my sounding board for good and bad. I really enjoy chatting with them each day and many times multiple times a day. I have begun to list some of their blogs sites take the time to check them out, or go to Etsy and check them out most of them blog with the same user name as Etsy. I hope to list some of my favorite items from Etsy friends as well very soon. There are just so many great artists out there that make such unique things. Visit the site you will fall in love with so much.

Gotta run kittens are only giving me a small minute.

Blessings to all.

Introducing The Real Cats Of The Family

2008-06-13T13:08:00.006-05:00

I just thought I would share our beautiful siberian cats. The cat on top is Chloe. She turned two in May of this year. Chloe is Thumpers cat and only allows her to hold her, touch her, sit by her. She is a fussy little thing, doesn't like Papa Cat, doesn't like anyone else in the family to hold her or barely sit by her. She is kind of a look but don't touch sort of cat. The bottom cat is Sasha, she turned two years old in April of this year. Sasha does not like Papa Cat either but Mama Cat is her favorite. She is actually Peanuts cat. She likes a lot of attention, likes to be held, loves to play, and likes to lick my face each morning for a wake up call. They are great cats to have around and help to make our family complete.

Catz Family

2008-06-10T11:39:00.002-05:00

Just thought I would share a photo of the Catz family. Taken in March 2008.

Life in the Fast Lane

2008-06-10T11:07:00.006-05:00

Good Morning All,

This is my first time at blogging so bear with me. I'm going to make an attempt at posting everyday, but being realistic that may not happen. There are five kittens in the family that take a lot of my time; Thumper, my oldest and only girl will be 10 in July, Peanut just turned 6 in April, Jelly Bean just turned 4 in April, Cookie will be 3 in August, and Spud just turned 1 in March. So needless to say it is a busy household.

At the moment everyone is playing nicely and somewhat quietly freeing me up for just a few moments.

Currently in our life we are looking for another home, we have only been in this one for a year but it has a lot of leaks and mold growing that has caused some severe allergy issues with all the kittens especially our little Jelly Bean. Jelly Bean has heart and lung disease. The mold is really causing havoc on his lungs. We have been in to the emergency room with serveral bouts of pneumonia so far this year. This is the worst he has been since he was little. Jelly Bean has had a host of health issues since birth and had two open heart surgeries by the time he was three months old. Overall he has been doing wonderful just have need for oxygen now and then. Thumper itches her nose and constantly sneezing which in turn has her with frequent headaches, Peanut has asthma so he has been using his inhaler way too much. The sad part is the home is brand new, we are currently renting and wanted to buy the home but can't do that when the owner refuses to fix the leaks or clean out the mold.

I hate moving, we have done it way too much in the past four years. It seems life has thrown us a lot of curve balls with loss of work for Papa Cat. But we will survive always do, with the Lord's help. This year Papa Cat is doing pretty good with his business, he began his own landscaping business the year Jelly Bean was born. It has had its ups and downs as it can be hard to please some people even when mowing their grass. But four years later we still have several of our original clients and have added two churches to the list. He has been asked to place a quote on a subdivision and a town home community for next year. We pray the Lord will provide these accounts as it will aslo give us some constant winter income from snow.

Our faith is above all the most important aspect of our life. We feel truly blessed to have five wonderful children, food to eat, a roof over our head, reliable vehicles, and work for Papa Cat. Without the Lord we wouldn't get through any of the trials life has to offer us. We pray that in everything we do we serve the Lord. That we leave footprints behind that lead others to His amazing love. Many wonder where God is during so many rough trials in their life, He is there carrying each one of us every step of the way providing only what we need not necessarily what we want. If it weren't for Him we wouldn't make it through the trials. And as the saying goes if it weren't for the rain we wouldn't see the rainbow. Sometimes in our busy lives we forget to stop and notice our Heavenly Father, but when life gets rough He is the first that we turn to, did He leave during our times of selfishness, no He just stood by waiting patiently as any Father would for us to realize we can't go through life without Him.

Ok that is it for me now the kittens have played quietly by themselve all they can so it's time for Mama Cat to step in.

May the Lord bless You richly,
Mama Cat