Hartman Party of 7

How to beat the January BLAHS!!!!!

2012-01-23T17:10:00.005-05:00

Usually, right after the Christmas craziness, we don't seem to have any time to unwind because a snow storm is looming, and all of our energy is transferred from the holidays to SNOW. But this year, after the decorations were all put away, and everyone headed back to school and work, I actually found myself a bit in the doldrums. A snow-less January actually makes for a long, dreary month. To help pull me out of my winter doldrums Chris and I decided to take the 3 youngest kids, (CJ and Kylie were at work,) to the Philadelphia Pet EXPO. Ok, I know what your thinking...."Please don't bring another animal into that house." No worries. We played, we had fun, we came home empty handed.

Below is a pic of Madison then Avery holding a cock-a-too. Kamryn was too scared to go near the bird, let alone hold it. Madison did ask us to buy her one, but I stood my ground and said NO.

There was also a petting zoo. Avery and Kamryn went in to pet the various animals. This one is my favorite, the alpaca. What a cool animal. Very docile and affectionate. And their wool is worth a bit of cash. Maybe I could talk Chris into buying me an alpaca farm, or at least just one to roam the back yard.

Kamryn with the baby calf.

The Elmwood Zoo brought one of their tigers. We were able to get fairly close. What a huge, majestic, glad it's behind a BIG cage, animal. No pangs in wanting this creature roaming my back yard.
They also had pony rides at the expo. I was actually surprised that Kamryn got on the pony. She had a lot of fun.
Avery is at the in-between age where she's too young to know that she is too old for a pony ride, and a bit too old for the actual pony ride. Once she got on it, I think she realized it was probably her last pony ride.

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-26T09:39:00.006-05:00

Santa was here!

Avery was the first one awake. After she woke everyone up at 6:15am, they all opened up their bedside gifts then all of the kids came into our room to exchange their pollyannas with each other.

Kamryn peeking down the stairs!

First stop, stockings!

The magic of the day!

Last gift to open was a gift for the entire family, XBOX Kinnect.

Daddy building Kamryn's Barbie house.

Kylie and Kamryn playing Barbie's

In the afternoon our company arrived. The Kelly Family, Nana and Poppop, Aunt Jane, Amy, Dave, and Grammy. We all had so much fun.

Kylie and Shauna.

It was such a wonderful Christmas!

Christmas Eve

2011-12-26T09:28:00.005-05:00

Here our Madison, Ally, and Kylie on Christmas Eve. This year was a first. CJ and Chelsey both had to work on Christmas Eve and missed a lot of our family get together.

My mom and dad opening up one of their gifts.

Chris and Alan being goofy.

One of my favorite parts of Christmas Eve is when Santa drives through the neighborhood on a fire engine. Of course he always seems to arrive right as we are about to sit down to dinner.

Poppop opening up a lil box of chocolates.

Yeah, Chelsey arrived!

Finally, around 8:30 CJ came home, making our night complete!

Avery's concert

2011-12-26T09:25:00.004-05:00

Avery had two concerts this year, one for chorus and one for orchestra. Here she is singing. Unfortunately, the morning of her orchestra concert, she up sick and missed it.

A Hartman Thanksgiving

2011-12-26T09:05:00.007-05:00

This year for our annual Hartman Turkey Bowl, we had shirts made up. Thanks to Jill's friend who designs logos and someone Chris knows who does shirts, we all looked fabulous this year!
This is such a great way to start off our 'Hoilday Season.' No one seems to mind the cold or the early morning hour we meet to play.

Daddy and Kamryn on the same team.

Madison and CJ waiting to play.

Avery's turn.

Kylie laughing at one her cousins no doubt.

After the game, we headed home, cleaned up, and had Nana and Poppop over for a visit.

Madi and I.

Our dinner guests arrived

A Visit to st. Nick

2011-12-04T20:26:00.002-05:00

Kamyrn has been so excited to see Santa this year. But once again she is too scared to sit on his lap or talk to him. Last year only she and Avery went to see Santa. This year she asked all of her siblings to go with her. (Perhaps she had a little prodding from me to get them to go.) Ironically, it was CJ and Kylie who agreed to go right away. Madison agreed once she found out that her older siblings were going. Avery gave us the hardest time. She is too old to want to sit on Santa's lap, and too young to understand that you're never too old for this. So now the hard part, trying to find a time in our crazy busy schedules to go see Santa. We had a one hour window on Sunday between 6 and 7 pm. Great time to go, NO LINE. As we got closer and closer to Santa, Kamryn got more and more nervous. As we were about to walk up to Santa, she turned around and asked her big brother to hold her. Thank you to my big kids for going with your little sister to see Santa. I will love this pic forever!

Parade Time!

2011-11-20T08:10:00.004-05:00

On Saturday Avery and her cheer squad walked in the Lansdale Parade. The big kids were not home, so it was just Chris, Kamryn, and I. Here is our baby waiting for the parade to start, and chomping on some pizza.

Chris waiting patiently!

Kamryn and daddy.

As the keeper of the camera, I very rarely end up in a picture. In order to make an appearance, I handed Kamryn the camera to take our picture. Nice work, KB!

We got to our spot 45 minutes before the parade started. This is how Kamryn entertained herself, torturing her dad.
Finally, the parade started. Even though we have lived her for 13 years, we have never gone to the parade. We have really missed out, it was fabulous. We will definitely be sure to go again next year.

Here is our Avery walking in the parade.

Gotta love a man on stilts!

Yes, my husband jumped out of his seat to stand in front of the giant wiener and asked me take his picture.

Avery's squad walked toward the beginning of the parade. As soon as she passed up, Chris walked up to the end of the parade and met Avery. He then brought her back to our spot so she could enjoy the rest of the parade with us.

Getting ready for the grand finale......Santa's arrival.

Halloween

2011-11-20T07:52:00.004-05:00

What a crazy Halloween we had! Some years my kids go trick or treating in just a light sweatshirt, sometimes its colder, but we have never walked around our neighborhood with snow on the ground! Kamryn did not have school on Halloween, so her parade was the Friday before. Cutest super girl ever!

This just does not seem right, a jack-o-lantern in the snow.

Our girls all in their costumes. Super Girl, veterinarian, The Flash, and an elf. Christopher was already out when I snapped this photo, but he wasn't in a costume.

Our Halloween dinner, Yummy!

Daddy and Kamryn watching Avery at her parade.

Avery at her parade.

Did you miss me?

2011-10-26T20:12:00.004-04:00

Okay, so it has been awhile since I posted, so long in fact, that I seemed to have forgotten how to post. My pics are so out of order. So, I can just fill in now and match the pic below to the story. Kamryn is loving Kindergarten, and so am I. I was picked to be her homeroom mom. She loves to see me in her classroom. Last week she went on her first field trip. I got to chaperone. We headed to Merrymead. Her teacher allowed her to pick her group. Lucky me, she picked 3 boys.

She is also playing soccer. Here are a few of her cheerleaders.

Back to her field trip group.

Madison played powdered puff football for her school. She is just the cutest wide receiver ever!

A few weeks ago, Kamryn asked her sisters to help her learn how to ride a bike without training wheels. Kylie did her best, but Kamryn was just too scared.

I will try my best to update more often, but we have been so busy lately.

Sunday Dinner

2011-09-18T15:28:00.003-04:00

A few years ago as our kids started getting older, we realized that having all 7 of us at the dinner table every night wasn't always possible. Between sports practices, jobs, PREP, our week nights are crazy. It was then we decided to to have Mandatory Sunday Family Dinner. It is now something that we all look forward to. We eat in the dining room, and I make a nice dinner. Sometime we even have dessert. Last Sunday, Madison and Avery asked me if I was planning on making a dessert for family dinner. I told them I wasn't going to. They found a brownie box mix in the pantry and decided to take it upon themselves to make dessert for our family. They had a blast, and were so proud of their finished product.

Kindergarten Kamryn

2011-09-07T20:19:00.003-04:00

Yesterday was Kamryn's kindergarten orientation that Chris and I took her to. She was only there for about 20 minutes. Today was her first real day of kindergarten. Above is a pic of her with her school bag getting ready to walk to the bus stop. Below is my baby walking to the bus stop.
Here she is getting on the bus for the first time. I told myself that I would not cry. I must not have been very firm with myself because as soon as the bus doors closed I couldn't hold back the tears. I can't believe my baby is in kindergarten.

She came home on the bus with Avery.
She told us that she had a great day and can't wait to go back tomorrow. About an hour after she got home, she climbed on the chair, laid down her head and fell asleep. I tried to wake her up for dinner, but she was just too tired to get up. She ended up sleeping through the night. Guess my girlie was tired!

1st day of school

2011-09-06T17:57:00.005-04:00

Today marked a new first for us. All 5 of our kids are in the same district. Only year this will happen since CJ is a senior. Here are their first day pics. CJ, 12th grade, Kylie, 11th grade.

Avery heading to 5th grade.

Kamryn has Kindergarten orientation today. We took her to meet her teacher and to visit the classroom. She was sooo nervous.

Her classroom door.

Madi and her men. I have a pic of these three on their first day of middle day, here they are walking home from the bus stop in the rain after their day as 9th graders.

Madison on her first day of 9th grade.

Kamryn's 6th Birthday

2011-09-02T21:01:00.007-04:00

How fast did those 6 years go? Our baby girl is 6 years old.....and totally obsessed with Justin Bieber. All she wanted for her birthday was a 'Bieber Birthday.' Here she is with her Bieber balloon, birthday shirt and birthday tiara.

Yes, I actually caught her kissing her Bieber balloon.

Waiting to open her presents.

All Kamryn wanted to do on her birthday was go to Kids Castle, so that's exactly what we did!

Finally, we got home, and it was time for our birthday girl to open her gifts.

Justin Bieber cup!

Justin Bieber microphone.

Bieber shirt.

I was doing so great with my pictures being in order until now. After we sang happy birthday, Kamryn wanted to shove her face in her cake.

Yummo!!!!

This is Justin, Kamryn's big bear.

Avery and Kamryn with Justin Bear.

Kamryn's birthday dinner choice, wings and ribs.

Her dessert choice, strawberry short cake.

Chris and Justin Bear.

After a fun filled birthday, our little girl ended up falling asleep on her big, giant teddy bear.

Our Cheerleader

2011-08-20T20:00:00.005-04:00

Today was Avery's first day cheering for the NP Squires. She was also chosen to be captain for this game. A very exciting day for a girlie!!!!

CJ was at work, and Kylie and Madi were both at parties, so it was just Chris, Kamryn, and I cheering on our favorite cheerleader.

2011-08-18T20:19:00.003-04:00

I love having a candy dish in our house. Let me rephrase that, I love having a full candy dish in the house. I like to keep holiday colored M&M's in it. But with 5 kids, I am constantly refilling it. Last year, I filled it with candy corn in the Fall instead of M&M's thinking my kids wouldn't eat it. WRONG! So, I went back to M&M's. Every once in awhile, I will try a different candy that I think no one will like, so my dish will actually stay filled. NOPE. Well, a few weeks ago I tried another candy that I thought for sure my kids wouldn't like that much, so my candy dish would not empty out every 14 hours. Spiced Dots. My kids grumbled, but my dish looked so pretty sitting on the table, full. One day, Kamyrn was so 'needing' a piece of candy, she tried a red one. She then informed everyone that the spiced dots really weren't that bad. They ended up eating most of them. I replenished the dish with more spiced dots. The good news is, they do seem to last longer than the M&M's. Don't feel to sorry for my children, I will soon fill it with Autumn colored M&M's......when Autumn arrives.

The Birthday Chain

2011-08-09T17:58:00.004-04:00

For the past few days Kamryn has been asking anyone in the house who will listen, "How many days till my birthday?" After the 15th time today she asked me, I decided to make a birthday chain with her. We always make them at Christmas time, and the big kids used to make them for their birthdays too. She is so excited, I had to make an extra link for her to rip off as soon as we were done!

Let's Go Phillies!!!!

2011-07-31T20:03:00.003-04:00

Friday afternoon the 7 of us headed to the Phillies game for our annual Hartman Family tailgate. It was sooo hot outside, even under the tents. Thank God Chris brought towels soaked in ice water that we all wore around our necks to keep us cool.

To know me is to know that I will NOT drink wine out of a plastic cup. That's right, I brought a wine glass with me. The 7 of us had a fantastic day together. After a 10-3 win by the Phillies, there were fireworks that were absolutely amazing!

Cape May Vacay!!!!!!!!

2011-07-31T19:24:00.008-04:00

Last week our family and the C's headed to beautiful Cape May for a visit/vacation with my parents. It was a fabulous trip. Of course my pics are so out of order, so please bare with me.

He is our a part of our little group. The first two days were soooo hot and the water was soooo cold. Not exactly ideal beach weather, but we still a great time.

The 5 older kids catching some rays!

CJ and Kylie.

Kamryn Bobbi, our baby!

Alan and the girls trying to decide if they go into the frigid water to cool off.

My lil boy.

Kylie, Madison, and Ally.

CJ and Chelsey. 1st best friends.

The twinnies....Madison and Allysen. Love when cousins look alike.

OK, this pic is actually a funny story...at least it was to all of us when it happened. It was about 100 degrees out. The big kids typically walk up the beach an hour or so before the rest of us. I yelled out the door for all of them to wear shoes, because I knew the street and sand was going to be sooo hot. Kylie chose not to listen. She went to the beach with no shoes. When a few of the big kids decided to head back to the house for showers, Kylie complained that she had no shoes and her feet would burn. Too bad I said. NaNa to the rescue, she let Kylie wear her sandals since NaNa also had a pair of water shoes in her bag that she would wear home. Looking good Kylie!

Of course the Chris drove his Jeep to the shore!

Avery hanging out on the front porch.

Karen and Amberly.

da beach.

One night the girls has a dance party outside.

On Tuesday, we headed over to North Wildwood to visit with a bunch of Hartman's also down on vacation.

Grammy and Kylie

Jill took Kylie, Kamryn, and Jorja for a ride on the boogie boards.

God-mother and God-daughter playing.

Some, yes I said some, of the cousins.

Our fab 5.

CJ and Chelsey

K and A

Crazy pic....shocker, its out of order.

What a great vacay we had! Always sad when it ends. So not ready for back to school yet. Hears hoping for a llllllllooooooonnnnnngggggggggg August.

madison's 14th Birthday!

2011-07-15T20:53:00.007-04:00

This morning Madison woke up on her 14th birthday to breakfast in bed! She did not want her pic taken. Don't blame her! She really wanted to go to Beltzville Lake for the day, but Chris was unable to get the day off, so all the kids and headed to the swim club. Chris was able to get out a few hours early, so he met us at the pool around 1:45. I brought a small cake that we all enjoyed! Sorry these 2 pics r blurry, taken with my phone....user error.

When we got home, it was time for presents. Her favorite gift, A Ruiz jersey!

She also got a new MP3 player.

Hot Mama!!!!

Out of order warning.....

Madison's birthday dinner of choice.....wings, chicken fingers, and french fries.

Madi and Daddy

The kids!

Madi wanted a butter cake for her birthday cake. The bad mother that I am, chose to buy her cakes rather than make them from scratch because I didn't want to miss valuable pool time!

CJ's Birthday dinner!

2011-07-06T21:36:00.005-04:00

We took the kids plus CJ's friend Brian out to a hibachi grill for dinner tonight to conclude our celebration of our little boy's 18th birthday. Above is a pic of all the kids before our dinner presentation started.

When our chef lit the table on fire, it really freaked out Kamryn. She spent the rest of the meal on daddy's lap.
As you all know, Madison does not like most foods. After the boys ate, they decided to eat all of Madi's food since she wouldn't eat it.

That smile and those huge dimples are what it's all about!

If you have never been a hibachi restaurant.....1. You need to go. 2. They fling food at you. Here is Kylie catching a piece of steak.

Our fried rice.....shaped like a heart. How appropriate for our family!

We told the restaurant it was his birthday so they brought him a yummy dessert.

The flaming onion tower...that scared the **** out of Kamryn.

Adults get flying Saki. Kids get flying water. So much fun!

Avery's turn!

I can officially say that our son had an amazing 18th birthday. He said so himself when we walked out of the restaurant!

Camping 2011

2011-07-04T08:01:00.008-04:00

This past weekend was our annual camping trip with the Kelly family. We headed to Tobbyhanna State park near Scranton. Not my favorite site. Of course my blog was giving me problems, so my pics are totally out of order. I know....you're shocked. And I also know that it is not a technical error, but a user error! What our two families do is set one of our sites as the sleeping site and one site as our food, beverage, party site. Here we are on our party site.

Kamryn standing in front of our home away from home.
While we were away, it was also CJ's 18th birthday. I brought up a cookie cake and we all sang 'Happy Birthday.'

My little boy and.......a cigar?

My men!!!

Chris making breakfast on Saturday morning. Bacon, sausage, eggs, toast, yummmo!!!

Kamryn eating her breakfast, Kylie still half asleep and Madi just not happy being photographed.
Tobbyhanna camp grounds is around a lake. After breakfast we headed to the dock and rented 3 small boats. We spent 2 hours boating up and down the lake. I was too worried about bringing my camera, so I didnt get any pics of our boating excursion. Too bad too because the pics would have been fabulous. After boating we all headed to their beach where the kids swam for a bit.

OOPPPSSSS...out of order pic......Our entertainment one night, the girls doing a little dance.
Back to the lake. Chris and Kamryn heading to the water.

The view.

CJ tanning.

Avery and Kamryn

out of order warning.......after we got home, CJ got to open his presents.
We woke up Sunday morning to a rain storm. Clean up is never fun, but it is down right horrible to do it in the rain. Chris and CJ not thrilled about packing up in the rain.

CJ's favorite b-day present.....the I phone 4. I think it is safe to say that he had a fantastic 18th birthday!

Carnival time!

2011-07-04T07:49:00.005-04:00

Every year we head over to our church's carnival. I remember us going as a family, putting the kids on the rides, stuffing their prizes under the stroller. But the past few years the bigs go with their friends, so now its just Chris and I with Avery and Kamryn...and no more stroller. Very weird feeling for me. Unfortunately, there are very few, if any, rides that both Kamryn and Avery can or will go on together. So, Chris took Avery and I took Kami. Above is Avery on the swings.
Kamryn is also getting to the age where she is too bored on the kiddie rides, but not big enough for the bigger rides.
While Kamryn and I were standing in line for a ride, we ran into Kylie and her friends.
Kamryn won a prize all by herself! By the end of the week my kids had also won about 6 gold fish.
Oh, shocker.....my pics are out of order again.......Avery on the swings!

Father's Day

2011-07-04T07:43:00.005-04:00

This year we had a very low key Father's Day. We all headed over the C's for a bbq. Here are Karen and I with our Lolita glasses!

Chris, Alan, and CJ just hanging out on the deck. Like a said, a very simple Father's Day, but just a nice!

Are you ready for the swim club?

2011-06-17T19:55:00.004-04:00

We are so ready! Spending my summer days at the swim club is one of my most favorite things to do with my kids. We have been busy getting our things ready for this season. I know that my big kids probably wont go very often, but my little kids are so excited. This year we decided not to join the big, water park style club we have belonged to the last few years. They must be having financial problems because they increased their membership fee drastically, and let way too many camps in making it unpleasantly crowded. This year we decided to go back to the very first pool we belonged to 20 years ago. My kids will get to spend their summer with some of their cousins!

Kamryn's Pre-K Graduation

2011-06-15T18:34:00.006-04:00

On Tuesday we all headed over to Kamryn's Preschool for her graduation. What a great day for our family. Our baby is moving on to kindergarten in September. She did such a great job singing her songs and receiving her diploma.

Our Fabulous Anniversary Weekend!

2011-06-13T20:47:00.010-04:00

Friday afternoon Chris and I headed down to the Phillies game. Although it is sooo much riding in a Jeep with the top down, it has its challenges with long hair.

We lucked out because no one sat in the seats directly in front of us, so we could stretch out!

The Phillies won, and we had such a great time just the 2 of us.

On Saturday we headed to my aunt and uncle's 50th wedding anniversary. After the party we headed out to continue celebrating!
Chris also had 2 tickets to Sunday's Phillies game. Since I had plans to go out to lunch with my sister and parents, Chris took Kylie. Our friends also were at the game, so Kylie and Chris ended up sitting by them.
On Monday Chris and I celebrated our 19th wedding anniversary. We headed up to New Hope and had lunch on the Delaware.

Yes, we were corny and asked our waitress to take our picture!!! After our long fun weekend I think we both need a little detox!

Memorial Day Weekend!

2011-05-30T18:33:00.006-04:00

What a fabulous Memorial Day Weekend! The unofficial start of summer topped with perfect weather. Friday night the three big kids were all out so it was just Chris and I with our two littles. We sat out back on the deck and enjoyed some pizza. Saturday was not much different except that Madi joined us. We sat out back, had a fire, and watched the girls dance around the back yard to music. Sunday 2 of my roommates and their families came over for a bbq. Here is a pic of almost all of kids. Kelly wasn't able to make it.

Chris chillin' on the deck!

On Monday, we all slept in, then went out to breakfast, all 7 of us! Now that CJ and Kylie have jobs is a rare thing that all of us were home. After breakfast, which was actually closer to lunch time, we all headed out back were we had a big family water balloon fight. Finally, to end an amazing weekend...while we were grilling dinner, Kamryn lost her first tooth! It's another Last-first for us as parents. This is the last time one of our kids will lose their first tooth. She is so very excited to put her tooth under her pillow tonight.

Kylie goes the Senior Prom

2011-05-15T19:21:00.005-04:00

Here is a group shot of a few cousins who came to see her.

Last Friday Kylie was invite to the Senior Prom by a friend. Here she is all dressed and ready to go.

Kylie holding her God-daughter, Lily.

The 'rents

Surprise...my pics are out of order again. Here is Kylie getting her hair done.

the Date.

Kylie's date's friend asked one of Kylie's good friends.

Happy Belated Easter

2011-05-12T14:23:00.000-04:00

Things have been so busy crazy lately that I realized I never posted about Easter. Above is Kamryn with her favorite Easter gift, a Justin Bieber doll. After the kids opened their baskets we all headed over to the Borgeson's for our Hartman Easter get together. It was such a beautiful day.

Then we headed over to my sisters for our family dinner. Here is our latest family pic.
NaNa and PopPop with all the grandkids but Chelsey who was still at Penn State.

oops! Shocker, The pics are not in the right order!

Then I realized that I have NO pics of Mother's Day. CJ left the house at 630 am to go to work. Kylie left at 1:30 for her work. CJ didnt get home until after 2 then left to go get his girlfriend for dinner. My hubby and kids did plan a great day for me. Avery made me breakfast in bed. I then got to open my gifts and cards before church. I actually took a nap in the afternoon! Finally, we had a fabulous bbq in the back yard. Great Day!!!!!

Jr. Prom Pics and Chorus Concert

2011-04-19T20:15:00.002-04:00

Last week we all went to Avery' s Spring Chorus concert. I do believe she had the biggest fan club present! Next week we head back to her school for her orchestra concert. Good times!

2 weeks ago was CJ's Junior prom. He and his date, Haley, were a very cute couple!

The sibling shot.

The grandparent shot.

The ' anyone else want to jump in the picture' shot.

From Popeye to Robo-cop

2011-04-02T20:27:00.003-04:00

Two weeks ago Chris tore his bicep muscle from the bone. Last Friday he had surgery to repair his arm. His arm was so bandaged and casted, that he looked like he had a Popeye arm. He was in a lot more pain than he thought he'd be in.

A week after his surgery he had the cast removed and was placed in a brace. Now he looks like Robocop with this mechanical looking arm. He goes back to the Orthopedic surgeon in 3 weeks to check his status.

Great Wolf Lodge

2011-03-13T12:10:00.007-04:00

Thursday we headed to Great Wolf Lodge for Kylie's birthday celebration. On our way up we stopped for lunch.

As soon as we arrived, we checked in, got into our suits and headed to the indoor water park. I don't have any pics from the water park because I didnt want to bring my camera. After several hours swimming, we came back to our room and dined on hoagies.

Chris relaxing in our room.

This is were the girls slept.

After dinner, CJ, Kylie, and Madi went back to the water park. Kamryn and Avery were a bit water logged, so we took then to the arcade to play.

After they were done playing games, we got the little girls icecream.

Finally, we headed back to our room. Here is Avery and Kamryn jumping on our bed.

The next morning we all headed to the breakfast buffet, then I made my kids pose for pics around the lobby.

The lobby was so cool.

After this round of pics, we all headed back to the water park again. When everyone was water logged, we headed back home. This was such an awesome getaway. We all just laughed and played and ate!

Kylie's 16th Birthday

2011-03-08T20:16:00.006-05:00

Today our oldest daughter turned 16. As soon as Chris got home from work, we sat down to dinner. Kylie's menu selection....crab and asparagus fettuccine, salad, and Italian bread.

After dinner it was time for Kylie to open her gifts.

Avery gave Kylie $5 of her own money.

Madi gave Kylie a ring.

Vera Bradley lanyard.

Vera Bradley flip flops. Kylie is a huge VB fan.

What's in the bag???

A Droid phone. I think its safe to say that she loves it!

Lucky birthday girl got flowers from her God-daughter, Lily, and a mixed bouquet from her boyfriend.

Finally it was time to sing to our birthday girl. But her birthday celebrations aren't over yet. We are taking the family to Great Wolf Lodge soon to continue her Sweet 16 celebrations.

Avery's 10th birthday

2011-03-05T13:08:00.006-05:00

Thursday was Avery's 10th birthday. She woke up to breakfast in bed!

Waiting for Daddy to get home so she can open her presents.

Jegging capris. Getting ready for Spring.

Forgot to take a pic of her dinner table, her menu selection included ravioli, salad, garlic bread, and an icecream cake for dessert. So glad her taste buds are maturing and she didn't pick tacos! Her sparkler candles on her cake surprised her!

Hope she remembered to make a wish!

On Friday night Avery had a sleep over party with her friends. Kylie and her friend, Sarah, taught the girls a dance to a Justin Beiber song.

Practicing one of the dance moves.

More dancing.

Then the girls played a spider web/question game.

The birthday girl then gets to sit on the spider web.

Instead of a big cake, Avery wanted everyone to decorate their own cupcake.

Then every girl got to blow out her own sparkler candle after singing to Avery.

Finally, after an evening full of activities, it was time to settle down for the night.

After all of her friends left, Avery headed up stairs to her room. A few minutes later she was sound asleep. I think I'll call that a successful birthday party for Avery!

Kylie's Fashion Debut

2011-03-05T13:01:00.003-05:00

On Thursday we headed to the high school were Kylie was modeling the dress she made for her Fashion Design class at the Annual fashion show.

Kamryn was so proud of her big sister.

Kylie and friends.

A Hartman Saturday Night

2011-02-27T17:10:00.003-05:00

This past Saturday night we spent with our very good friends, the Ives. Since our kids have grown up together, and are all good friends, we often get our families together. This particular night we decided to play Just Dance on Wii. If you don't own it, go out and buy it. Not only is so much fun, it's also great exercise.

The kids danced while we watched and laughed.

Not quite sure how she fell asleep since it was sooo loud in our house.

Finally, after a few beers, it was time for the adults to show the kids how its done.

Happy Valentine's Day

2011-02-13T18:56:00.003-05:00

Since Valentine's Day is on a Monday, and the school week is so crazy for us, we decided to celebrate tonight at Sunday dinner. It wouldn't be Valentine's Day without a little bubbly, (cherry 7-up that is.)Our menu tonight was 2 roasted chickens, mashed potatoes, stuffing, and cranberries. Since it's our Valentine dinner, of course I made the cranberries heat shaped!

I couldn't remember the last time it was just the 7 of us at Sunday dinner, no girlfriends, no boyfriends, no special guests. I never mind having a big group for Sunday dinner, but it was nice just having the 7 of us for a change.

Dessert time!!!!

Valentine's Dance

2011-02-11T19:57:00.004-05:00

Tonight was the Valentine Dance at Madison's school. She looked so grown up and beautiful!

Movie Star!!!

I asked her for a sexy look. This is what I got.

Two of her friends met here for a pics before Chris dropped them off! I can't believe how grown up my little Madison is getting!

Date night with Kamryn

2011-02-11T19:48:00.004-05:00

Last Friday night George and Riley invited Chris, Avery, and Madison to a Sixers game. Christopher and Kylie went out with their friends. That left just Kamryn and I home on a Friday night. I bought cookie dough playdough. We had a great time making cookies using all of the fun colors. She had even more fun eating her artwork when they were done baking!

Chris's new toy!

2011-01-15T20:03:00.004-05:00

Call it a mid life crisis if you'd like. After many years of wanting a Jeep Wrangler, Chris finally got his jeep. He is having so much fun driving his new wheels, he hasn't even let me take it for a drive yet. He loves it soooo much, he has volunteered to drive any where and every where the kids needed to go today.

Merry Christmas, Hartman Style!

2010-12-27T21:03:00.005-05:00

Our Christmas celebrations began with our annual Christmas Eve Dinner at our house with my parents and sister's family. This year, Chris did not want a kids table, he wanted everyone at the same table. So... we set up two tables in our living room. I have to admit, I was a bit skeptical at first...not eating in the dining room, but I actually liked his idea!

My mommy, sister, and me.

The best part about my sister and I living only 5 minutes from each other, is that our kids are so close. They act more like a big family with 8 kids than just cousins.

Nana and Poppop opening one of their gifts.

Group shot....

Every year, Santa drives through our neighborhood on top of a fire truck on Christmas Eve. As soon as we here the fire engines, we all grab our coats and head outside to wave to Santa as he drives passed our house.

A pic of our tree after Santa arrived, and before the kids tear through it.

Every year Santa leaves a gift next to everyone's bed. This year he left big horns. (Lucky me!!) This is how we were awakened on Christmas morning...at 530AM. You may be thinking that the 5 year old or even the 9 year were the first ones up.....NO.....the 17, 15, and 13 year old were up first and woke up the younger 2.

Our kids pic pollyannas during the month of December. They always exchange their gifts with each other in our room before going downstairs.

Here they are, waiting patiently while we turn on the the lights.....and more importantly....make coffee.

Next stop....stockings.

Best part of the day....watching our kids come running into the family room!

After gifts, a big breakfast, (the only day of the year I cook bacon in my house,) we head to church, then go visit with Grammy. Later that afternoon, Nana and Poppop come over. This year the Kelly Family also joined us for dinner.

The day after Christmas, we all headed over to the Geo Hartman house for our annual Hartman Family Christmas Party. The little kids had a shuv-un-da gift exchange. Too much to explain, but HILARIOUS!!!!! Then it's time for the adult shuv-un-da gift exchange. Even more HILARIOUS!!!

Group shot.

Once again, a beautiful Christmas, but could only be perfect if Tom and The Huck were there with us. Missed so much by all of us.

Here come's Santa

2010-12-14T11:03:00.004-05:00

For the past several weeks Kamryn informed us that she did not want to see Santa Claus. She was too scared to see him last year too. After a lot of discussions, she finally agreed to see Santa ONLY if Avery want with her. She also told us that she would not sit on his lap OR talk to him. We agreed to her requests because I just wanted her pic taken. On Saturday morning Chris, all 4 girls and I (CJ was working) headed out to breakfast, then to the mall to see Santa. Kylie and Madison did not want to see Santa, so they went to Starbucks instead. While we were in line waitng, Kamryn informed us that she changed her mind, she did not want her pic taken at all. I promised her a Happy Meal if she got in the pic. She negotiated a Happy Meal plus daddy had to stay with her. Hope you love my pic of Santa this year as much as I do!!!!!

Our musical child!

2010-12-04T08:52:00.003-05:00

This past Thursday Avery had her orchestra concert. She did such a fabulous job with her violin. I didn't get a pic of her. Orchestra parents seem crazier than sports parents. We got there an hour and 10 minutes before the concert and got seats toward the back. When the concert started parents would just stand up in front of you to look for their kid, or walk up front to get a pic, I have never seen anything like it. But no one yelled out their kid's name. Avery told Chris next time he should yell out her name like he does at dance recitals. Maybe he will start a new trend with concerts!

Avery is also in her school's chorus. The 4th grade chorus members sang on Friday at her school's Frosty Fest. We got much better seats here!

Our XMAS Tree

2010-11-28T16:18:00.005-05:00

This year the C's joined us for our annual trip to a tree farm to cut down our Christmas Tree. What a difference this year. Last year we didn't even need jackets, but this year it was freezing!

Chelsey and Kamryn!

I love when my hubby gets in the spirit!

Our 5 amazing, fabulous kids in front of our chosen tree, Ricky. Yes, we name our tree every year. This year it was Kami's turn!

Me and my baby girls!

My hero...cutting down our tree.

CJ standing in front of Ricky. He's not quite 10 feet. (Ricky, that is!)

Lights and topper.

The decorating begins.

TA-DA..... Our 2010 Christmas Tree!!!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2010-11-26T15:57:00.004-05:00

This Thanksgiving started out with our Annual Turkey Kickball game! This year our teams were the Gingerbread Men vs. The Mittens. The Mittens won 10-5. It was such a magical morning because it also began to snow!We also had a visit from NaNa and PopPop before the Hartman's showed up for dinner. Since George always forgets the names of everyone, Trysha made name tags for everyone which read, "Hi Uncle George, my name is....or Hi Poppop, my name is ......."
This is always an amazing site. 2 people, Kay and George fell in love many, many years ago and created such a huge family. Even more amazing is that everyone gets along and we actually enjoy being together.

Ladies table!

My two guys!

Happy Thanksgiving to all!

I think I need a bigger dining room!

2010-11-22T07:28:00.003-05:00

Every Sunday night we have a big family dinner, the 7 of us, in the dining room. My thought is that eventually as my kids get older, they will still want to come home for Sunday dinner because its a part of what they know. Very often either CJ's girlfriend or Kylie's boyfriend have joined us on a Sunday dinner. This past Sunday both came for dinner. Since we don't eat dinner with my parents on Thanksgiving, we also invited my parents up for dinner. What does that add up to??? 11 of us for Sunday dinner! My only problem with this is that I can only fit 10 around my dining room table. We ended up putting a second table in the corner of the dining room for Avery and Kamryn to sit at. But I realized that I really need a table that seats 12. I am not even sure if a table that big would even fit in my dining room. I think I just found another project for my hubby to work on!!!! Lucky guy!

My Birthday!

2010-11-19T14:21:00.005-05:00

Thursday was my birthday and I celebrated it the best way ever...with my family! We headed out to dinner. Here I am with Kamryn after I opened up her card.My kids made me a poster of all of their handprints....I love it!!!!!!

Chris's turn! 2 more charms for my Pandora bracelet! He did so well!!!

We never got a group shot at the restaurant, so I took one of everyone heading back to the van.

As soon as we got home Kami and Kylie passed out on the sofa.

The old couple!

I wanted a pic of the kids and I. Since I had to wake Kamryn up, she was not very cooperative.

Our fabulous date!!!!

2010-11-12T07:37:00.003-05:00

Last Sunday, my fabulous, amazing, awesome hubby surprised me with tickets to the Eagles game. Although I have been to a game before and he has been to many, we have never been to one together. We headed done early to tailgate and had a blast. It was a great game, (they won!)...we had great great seats, (Thanks CJ Quirk!) With 5 kids and 3 dogs we dont often get an entire day to just ourselves. It's good to know that after 20 years together, we still love being together and can still party like we did in our 20's!!!!!!

MY HUBBY ROCKS!!!

Halloween 2010

2010-11-02T19:21:00.005-04:00

Any one who truly knows Chris and I, knows that Halloween is not a favorite day in our house. But as a mother of 5 I think I have done a good enough job at making my least favorite holiday a good day for my kids. This year I am a homeroom mom for Avery's class, so I was part of the 'party planning' for her room. I bit the bullet and through her class a kick butt halloween party. No one could have possible known that I am really a Pumpineezer Scrooge. Above is a pic of Avery with her friends.

After her party, it was time for Kamryn's parade at preschool. My only 'shy' child was a bit uncomfortable walking around the playground in front of a bunch of parents. But you have to admit...she is the cutest damn Spider Girl EVER!!!!!

Here is Avery right before she left to go 'trick or treating' with the neighbor kids. One of the dad's volunteered to take all of the girls, so we didnt have to walk with Avery.

Spider Girl

Trick or treating is tough work!

Our Jack-O-Lantern

2010-10-27T20:54:00.005-04:00

This Fall has been a very busy one for our family. Every weekend was packed and we never ended up apple picking or pumpkin picking. In a very anti-climatic pumpkin pick trip, Avery, Kamryn, and I ended up just buying this pumpkin at the grocery store. Although it was not the family moment I craved and did not involve a hay ride, at least we got a pumpkin. And it's damn near perfect!

Since I couldn't get my family moment to pick out the pumpkin, I insisted on a family moment to carve the pumpkin. CJ looks so thrilled. Doesn't every 17 yr old boy hang with his family to carve their annual pumpkin???

YUMMO!!!!

So, after the top was cut off Chris and CJ disappeared, leaving just us girls to scoop out the insides and separate the seeds for later.
After the scooping was done, everyone left the table but Avery and I. So I was left to do the carving. Thank you Avery for snapping the picture.

Avery's turn to carve!

TA-DA..... Our Jack-O-Lantern!

After Avery and I finished carving we roasted, toasted, and caramelized our pumpkin seeds!

Scaredy Cats!

2010-10-23T20:31:00.004-04:00

Last night Kylie and Ally went to see Paranormal Activity 2. Although they told me it was the scariest movie they had ever seen, I didn't think they would be scared to go to bed. When I went downstairs this morning, this is how they were sleeping. Too scared NOT to be sleeping right next to someone!

San Diego

2010-10-21T22:22:00.005-04:00

A few weeks ago Tara and I were sent to San Diego for a conference for our jobs. Our men joined us! Chris and Rob had a blast hanging out while Tara and I attended conference meetings.
No worries...There was plenty of time for all of us to relax. This was the pool area at our hotel. It's where we spent most of our free time. The weather in San Diego is probably the most perfect in the US. It doesn't get too cold or too hot, and very little rain.

Our conference was over on Friday afternoon. Here's Chris and I hanging out poolside.

On our second night Chris, Tara, Rob, and I headed out to Old Town for dinner. Since we were staying 4 more days we decided to pick up some beverages while we were out on the town. Although our supply looks quite plentiful, we ran out on day 3 and had to replenish. (This was just our supply, Tara and Rob had their own."

Tara and Rob left us on Saturday night. :( Although Chris and I are not 'touristy types' we headed to the Gaslamp district to do some souvenir shopping for our kids. Chris didn't mind to much because every other store was a bar.

There was also a car show on the main strip.

This is a Bird of Paradise plant. It is one of my favorite flowers because it so unusual....in PA. They are EVERYWHERE in SanDiego.
This is what we did most of the time on our vacation. It has been a long time since Chris and I have sat by a pool and been able to read, relax, or nap. Although it was fabulous, I actually prefer the crazy chaos of my regular life.

Autumn Festival

2010-10-02T19:45:00.005-04:00

Every year our township hosts an annual Fall Festival. For the past 12 years we have always been unable to attend due to our schedules. Well, today we finally made it! Of course twelve years later CJ and Kylie are too old to go, and Madi went over before us with a friend. So there we were....Chris and I and only TWO kids. WAY EASY! and so much cheaper. They had several types of moon bounces set up. Here is Kamryn going down a slide.

The line to this was short, so she did it again!

Then Kamryn headed over to the gigantic moon bounce. Avery refused to go in, she thought she was too old to go in it. (I think she just didn't want any friends from school seeing her in a kiddie attraction.)

Avery went on an obstacle course.

It was a two person race and she won, beating an 11 year old boy.

Since there was more for Kamryn to do than Avery, Chris and Avery relaxed in the sun while Kamryn enjoyed herself.

Apparently a few hours watching 2 kids at a neighborhood festival was too much for the hubby, he needed a nap! He even got a nap buddy with Baby!!!

Kamryn update

2010-09-09T11:44:00.003-04:00

So, while I was thinking that pre-k was wiping out my poor baby, it was actually an illness. By 7:30 she climbed up on my lap and felt a bit feverish. Poor baby was at 102.6. An hour later she started crying about a belly ache. 10 minutes later she was puking. Thank God daddy ran and got a big bowl when she started crying about her belly. Needless to say, she didn't go to school today. Hopefully she will be all better by the weekend and no one else catches this icky 'bug.'

Kami

2010-09-08T18:07:00.002-04:00

Today after we got home from PreK Kamryn sat down on the chair with a book. A few minutes later I looked over and this is what i saw!!!! My baby is so sweet.

1st day of School 2010

2010-09-07T20:34:00.004-04:00

Today was the first day of school for our kids. Kylie and Chris had to leave at 6:27 am. Madison headed out the door at 7:30 am. She is very excited to be starting 8th grade this year!

Avery started 4th grade and Kamryn started her final year at Pre-K.

Kylie's New Look

2010-09-04T17:26:00.004-04:00

Today Kylie got 5 inches cut off her hair. After her hair cut she asked me to dye her hair a darker color.....match her roots. I was very nervous as we selected a color from Sally's beauty supply.

Ta-Da. A new cut and a new color for a new school year!!!

Kamryn Bobbi's 5th Birthday

2010-09-02T20:49:00.005-04:00

Today we celebrated our baby girl's 5th birthday. Her day started with breakfast in bed.

Our birthday girl!

Getting ready to open presents.

Her favorite gift...a new bike.

After she opened presents we all headed to Chiles for lunch. CJ is in OC MD with a friend, so Kylie's boyfriend, Nick, spent the day with us.

The wait staff sang 'happy birthday' to our girl.

After lunch we all headed to Kid's Castle to play. Here's a pic of the castle just in case you have never been there.

The kids playing.

Since we had a late lunch, we decided to have her birthday dinner, tacos, another night. We went right to dessert. Kami chose a vanilla/chocolate swirl cake with butter cream icing.

Always a crazy photo.

Our Birthday Princess.

Finally, after a long, funfilled day, Kamryn put on her new PJ's and snuggled up to her new pillow pet. She didn't get to Disney World for this birthday, but I think it is safe to say that she had a FANTASTIC DAY!!!!

Look out Kylie!

2010-08-30T20:17:00.003-04:00

Tonight Kylie's boyfriend came over. Kylie and Nick were watching videos on you-tube when Kamryn climbed up and cuddled next to Nick to watch the videos. Such a lucky guy to be sitting next to two fabulous girlies!

Cape May

2010-08-15T17:09:00.005-04:00

This past week the 7 of us headed to Cape May to visit with NaNa and PopPop for a mini vacation. Our favorite activity is spending the day on the beach.

Our first day the water was cold and calm.

I just love it when my kids get along!

Chris and Avery went for a long walk.

We did so many other fun things together, but I failed to bring my camera along. We went to the promenade, got ice cream, went shopping, CJ, Kylie, and Madi met up with a bunch of locals and went out at night. Chris and I even got in a 'date night' after the little kids were settled in, the two of us headed out to a nearby restaurant/bar for a few 'kid free' hours! Thank you so much to my parents for another FABULOUS visit!!!!!!

Peaches!!!!

2010-08-10T18:39:00.004-04:00

On Monday afternoon we took the kids to Linvilla Orchards to go peach picking. We got to go on a tractor ride to the peach trees.

Everyone had fun picking peaches.

And of course eating them along the way.

The kids took a seat while we went to pay for our 16 pounds of peaches! When 7 peaople go picking, it adds up quickly!!!

After we got home, we each ate a peach, took 2 to Gram, and we still had a lot.

So there's only one thing left to do when you have so many peaches......make a peach pie!

Camping 2010

2010-08-09T08:25:00.008-04:00

Here are a few pics from our camping trip. Below is Chris and CJ making breakfast for everyone. On the menu.....bacon, scrapple, eggs, toast, muffins, and OJ.

Our camp site. These are not the tents we slept in, these tents just hold beverages and supplies.

After breakfast we went on a hike to a waterfall.

The kids thought they were so cool driving around the camp site in the jeep.

This is our view from our campsite.

Girl's Weekend

2010-07-26T19:20:00.004-04:00

Friday afternoon, Karen, Ally, Amberly, Kylie, Madison, Avery, and I headed to Cape May to visit NaNa and PopPop. This was my favorite part of our ride!We packed 3 coolers full of food and beverages and spent the day at the beach. Here is Madi and Avery going for a swim to cool off on this 100 degree day.
It was such a hot day that you had to be in the water to stay comfortable. Karen, my mom, and I sat with our chairs at the waters edge, while our girlies stayed together.
I just hope that the cousins promise to be this close as they grow old! I don't think that it will be a problem, they are all thick as thieves!!!!!!

Kylie and Ally have always been so close!!!!

Madi's 13th birthday

2010-07-15T20:21:00.006-04:00

Madison's birthday celebration actually started on Wednesday night...Madi Eve. We took her and the crew to Wing Walker, (formally The Inn Flight) for dinner. Today, Madi's birthday started out with a pancake breakfast made by Chris, followed by the opening of her gifts. After she opened he gifts, we all got our suits on, packed a picnic lunch and headed to Beltzville State Park for a day of swimming and family fun.If you like going to Lake Galena, you need to try this place. It is farther away, 10 minutes from the Mohoning Valley exit on the NE extension, but soooo much more fun than Peace Valley Park.
You are allowed to swim at Beltzville Lake. The water was so warm and not very deep. It is a rocky bottom, so I do recommend you wear crocks or water shoes in the water.

One of Madi's gifts was a frisbee. She was pretty good at it.

Kami wasn't sure if she wanted to swim or not.

It didn't take long for everyone to get in the water.

Wall picture potential!

Of course all the kids wanted Chris to throw them in the water.

After we spent the day swimming, we headed home for Madi's birthday dinner. Her choice....chicken finger and french fries. Worked for me, I didn't have to cook.....TAKE OUT! Thank you Mystic Pizza.
Of course it wouldn't be birthday without a new pet. Just kidding. Ox is a foster puppy of my friend, Cherie's, that came for a short visit to run around the yard.
Finally, we sang and ate cake. Madi's birthday cake choice...buttercake! I think it is safe to say that Madi had a fabulous birthday!

Phillies Game with our Gang

2010-07-10T10:09:00.005-04:00

Friday we headed to the Phillies game. We left early to tailgate. Despite a sun shower, it was such an awesome day. The Phillies won in the 10th despite being down 7-1 in the bottom of the 9th. Then as if that wasn't exciting enough, there were fireworks after the game.

Dinner time!

I can't believe how fast my kids growing up.

My fabulous daughters.

A sun shower moved in so Madi, Kylie and Kami took cover.

Chris and CJ put the sides up on the tent because the rain really started coming down.

My 2 favorite men.

Kami started getting sleepy, so she used her big brother as a pillow.

CJ's 17th Birthday!

2010-07-01T20:15:00.008-04:00

We started celebrating Christopher's birthday last night by taking everyone to Maggiano's in KofP for dinner. We all had so much fun stuffing our faces on family style Italian food. Then, at 6am this morning Chris and CJ headed to Aronimink Golf Club in Newtown Square for the AT&T National Golf Tournament. They got home about 530 and were greeted by CJ's birthday dinner.

Birthday boy's choice for dinner tonight.....TACOS!!

After dinner it was time for gifts, and a few hugs from his sisters.

Avery made him a birthday card.

A birthday hug from his baby sister.

Cake time. Once again, strawberry shortcake, his favorite!

Apparently I took too long to get him a fork! I think is is safe to say that he had a fabulous 17th birthday! I am just trying to figure out how the heck I have a kid so old!

Meadow

2010-06-24T20:40:00.004-04:00

Both Chris and I grew up with dogs, so we both knew we wanted our children to grow up with dogs. I believe children who grow up with dogs learn compassion and unconditional love. Our first dog, Dalton, was a yellow lab that we bought when he was 8 weeks old and CJ was 1. He was with us for 13 years. He was so great with all of our kids. My only complaint about Dalton was his massive shedding. A few months after he died we bought a boxer, Paulie. He was such a beautiful dog, but CRAZY. We had to put him down after only being with us for 2o months because he was too aggressive towards anyone other than the 7 of us. After a few weeks of being dog free, we decided to start looking for an adult rescue dog to adopt. The first time we went to a 'meet and greet' we saw Meadow. We all fell in love with her instantly. We adopted her one year ago today. Because she was rescued from a dog shelter, we don't know her birth date or even her true age. So, we celebrate her birthday on her adoption date with us...today! She has been such a joy. She is the smartest dog I have ever owned. She is cuddly yet protective. So glad she is a part of our crazy family!

We all had brownies to celebrate her big day.

Father's Day 2010

2010-06-20T20:56:00.005-04:00

This afternoon Chris and Alan headed to the Phillies game. So Karen and I and the kids took out the slip-n-slide. We thought it would be fun for the little kids, but the big also had fun with it.

CJ, Kylie, and Ally called 'Teen Swim'---kicked off the little girls, then added dish soap to make even more slippery.

After the game, the men came back to a fabulous dinner!

MMR Carnival

2010-06-20T20:43:00.007-04:00

Saturday night we babysat Travis. It was also the final night of our churches carnival, so we decided to take Madi, Avery, Kamryn, and Travis to the carnival. Kami was thrilled to have a ride buddy.

Kami saw our neighbor and invited him to join her and Travie on the mini rollercoaster.

Don't let the smile fool you, we had to beg Madi to go on the merry-go-round.

No worries, only Madi and Avery are on this ride.

Chelsey's Graduation

2010-06-17T22:26:00.004-04:00

Tonight was Chelsey's graduation from N Penn High School. There were 988 grads. It was so well organized, it only lasted an hour and a half. We are all so proud of Chelsey. Another fabulous pic of Chels and CJ. After you are done looking at these two gorgeous kids, look at the ground in this pic. As soon as the ceremony ended, confetti was shot out all over the football field. It was awesome to see!!!

Chelsey's Graduation Party

2010-06-14T15:41:00.005-04:00

On Sunday, Karen and Alan hosted Chelsey's graduation party. About an hour before the party started the sky opened up and we had one of the biggest thunderstorms we've seen in a very long time.

Alan started moving all of the tables and chairs into the garage.
While Alan was moving things into the garage, Chris and CJ headed to the caterers to pick up the food.
About 15 minutes before the party started, the rain stopped. After everyone arrived, Chelsey watched a video that K & A made for her.

Guests watching the video.

It got emotional.

mother and daughter

The Christiansen Girls.

Chels and Madi

Chris jumps in a pic.

Chels and her Buddy

All of the little kids had a blast on the moon bounce.

Only injury of the day...Someone jumped on Kami's foot in the moon bounce. Daddy made her all feel all better.

It was an awesome Party. I am so glad I was able to be a part of it!

Breakfast with Avery

2010-05-29T14:27:00.002-04:00

Every year our elementary school has a Mother's Day breakfast in May and a Father's Day breakfast in June. For the first time in 10 years, I forgot to go to the Mother's Day breakfast. To make matters worse, Chris will be out of town for the Father's Day breakfast. To make up for it, we took just Avery out to breakfast today. We enjoyed Avery Conversation and decided that this one on one was so awesome, that we would give each kid a turn at breakfast with the 'rents!

This one's for you, Hanna!

2010-05-27T21:32:00.003-04:00

Today when I was driving Kylie and her friends to the gym, her bff, Hanna, (that I have known since she was in 1st grade) said, "Mrs Hartman, I saw your blog today, and I am very offended that there are NO pictures of me on it considering I am your 5th daughter!" SOOOOO, this pic below is of Kylie and her two BFF's Hanna and Kristin, (along with a nerdy student teacher.) I will be sure to keep my camera out and ready to take more shots of Hanna this weekend. BE VERY WORRIED HANNA...I AM THE PAPARAZZI OF MONTGOMERYVILLE!!!!!!

Baby's 1st hair cut

2010-05-24T19:19:00.003-04:00

Last week Grammy took Polly to a groomer for a hair cut. We thought she looked so cute, we decided that it was time for Baby to get a haircut too. So this morning we took her to the same groomer Polly went to. He is her before pic.

Ta-Da......Baby's new look. She looks soooo cute. The groomer said she was such a good girl. Of course she was!!!!!

Phillies Game

2010-05-20T08:15:00.002-04:00

Wednesday night Chris and I headed to a Phillies game. Although they lost, we had a great time just being together. I forgot how much fun a Phillies game is. In the summer we are taking all 5 kids. Can't wait!

Last Lacrosse Game

2010-05-17T20:13:00.006-04:00

Today was Kylie's last lacrosse game of the season. According to Kamryn and Avery, it was a little too cold.

Half time

Hi Mom!!!!

Christopher's new look

2010-05-15T15:29:00.003-04:00

I am not, nor have I ever been, a fan of long hair on guys. (With the lone exception of the mullet.) I have been nagging CJ to shave his head for months. Today he decided he was ready for a new look. Below he is starting the shave.
Chris stepped in to help him with the back.
Ta-Da!!!!! I think he looks so much older and more mature. Because he shaved his head, I caved in and let him get his ear pierced with the understanding that if his starts growing his hair long again, I will rip the earring out.

N Penn Sr Prom

2010-05-07T19:46:00.005-04:00

Today CJ headed to the Sr Prom. He and his date, Steph, looked so great together.

Hartman Entourage!

Group shot.

CJ, Steph, Chelsey, and Larry

CJ and Chelsey

My favorite picture of the day.

CJ and Chelsey with Mama and Poppop

Chelsey and Kami

CJ and Grammy.

CJ and Steph getting on the party bus.

This is definitely NOT how I went to my prom.

Freshman Formal

2010-05-02T08:38:00.005-04:00

Saturday night was Kylie's Freshman Formal. Here she is getting her hair done. Thanks for the referral, Chelsey. Sandy did such a great job!

Kylie and her boyfriend, Nick.

The fan club.

My awesome 5

Kylie and her God-mother, Jill. It seems like only yesterday when Kylie was a baby getting her pic taken with Jill for her dances. I may just have to go digging for some of those old pics.

Christopher was invited to the formal by Kristen, a friend of Kylie's.

They match so nicely!

The Formal kids with Grammy and cousins.

My kids with their Grammy.

Kylie and Kristen.

Their 'limo.'

After the dance they all came back to our house to hang out by the fire place out back. They all had a blast.

Avery's 1st Communion

2010-04-26T20:40:00.004-04:00

Sunday Avery received her 1st Communion. Hope you enjoy the pics!

Easter 2010

2010-04-05T11:25:00.006-04:00

Easter Egg Time

2010-04-02T13:10:00.003-04:00

This afternoon we dyed our eggs without the help of CJ and Kylie. Apparently, you get to an age when dying eggs is not that much fun.

Kami just being goofy.

My Favorite Child

2010-03-24T11:34:00.002-04:00

Many times people ask me as a mother of 5 that surely I have a favorite child. When ever I am asked that question I remember back a long, long time ago when I came across an article by the brilliant Erma Bombeck. (If you are too young to know who she is, please google her name and do a little homework.) I found that article she wrote and copied it below. Yes, every mother has her favorite, Erma will tell you who it is!

FAVORITE CHILD
by Erma Bombeck — May 10, 1981

Every mother has a favorite child.
She cannot help it. She is only human.
I have mine.
That child for whom I feel a special closeness. The one I reach out to in a rare moment, to share a love that no one else could possibly understand.
My favorite child is the one who was too sick to eat the ice cream at his birthday party, had measles at Christmas and wore leg braces to bed because he toed in.
She was the fever in the middle of the night, the asthma attack, the child in my arms at the emergency ward.
My favorite child spent Christmas alone away from the family, was stranded after the game with a gas tank on E, lost the money for his class ring.
My favorite child is the one who screwed up the piano recital, misspelled committee in a spelling bee, ran the wrong way with the football and had his bike stolen because he was careless.
My favorite child is the one who fell asleep over an assignment on China that the teacher never bothered to grade, flunked her driver’s test five times and told us she could hardly wait to get out of the house.
My favorite child is the one I punished for lying, grounded for insensitivity to other people’s feelings and informed he was a royal pain to the entire family.
My favorite child slammed doors in frustration, cried when she didn’t think I saw her, withdrew and said she could not talk to me.
My favorite child always needed a haircut, had hair that wouldn’t curl, had no date for Saturday night and a car that cost $600 to fix.
My favorite child said dumb things for which there were no excuses. He was selfish, immature, bad-tempered and self-centered. He was vulnerable, lonely, unsure of what he was doing in this world ... and quite wonderful.
The one I’ve loved most is the one whom I’ve watched struggle and --- because the struggle was his --- done nothing.
All mothers have their favorite child. It is always the same one, the one who needs you at the moment for whatever reason --- to cling to, to shout at, to hurt, to hug, to flatter, to reverse charges to, to unload on, to use — but mostly, to be there.

Chris's birthday weekend

2010-03-14T19:26:00.005-04:00

Saturday was Chris's birthday, after spending the day running the kids all over, fixing a toilet, fixing a fence, doing laundry, etc I decided to take Chris out to dinner, just the 2 of us to celebrate his b-day. On Sunday, we celebrated his birthday with the kids. Above is Kami helping making Chris's b-day dinner.

Here's the gang waiting to eat dinner.

Waiting for Chris so we can sing "Happy Birthday."

Singing time!

Chris blowing out his candles with a little help from Kami and CJ.

When it's just the 7 of us for cake, (or in this case, brownies), the kids love when I just hand out forks and yell, "DIG IN!"

Yummo!

Leftovers anyone?

Kylie's 15th birthday

2010-03-08T20:00:00.003-05:00

Kylie's birthday celebrations actually started this past Saturday when she got her belly buttoned pierced. Then on Sunday she celebrated her birthday with her Godparents and Grandparents.
Finally, today we celebrated he birthday with just the 7 of us.
Here she is after school, waiting for everyone to get home so she can begin to open her gifts.
Kami made a card for Kylie at preschool today.

I think she likes it!

After she opened her gifts we all headed to Uno's for dinner. Here's the crew before dinner arrived.

And of course we wouldn't be Hartman's if there wasn't a silly photo.

Finally, it's time for cake! I think it is safe to say that Kylie had a fabulous day!