FWIW, the Episcopal Church has moved it to age 15-16. I think it would be much more meaningful later on.

Good for you (and her!) -The Godmother :)

Thanks for the wishes, and Happy Birthday, Judy!

Sweet! Our moment is another *first* for my animal-loving boy: http://3saltydogs.blogspot.com/2011/01/this-moment_28.html

That decision was in the best interest of your family. Enjoying some aspects of it doesn't make it selfish!

Oh, how sweet! Hoping she keeps that spunk and confidence lifelong. Here's my little man meeting a goat for the first time. He is his animal-lovin' mama's delight: http://3saltydogs.blogspot.com/2010/10/this-moment_15.html

Oh, how exciting for the Soules! My moments (I cheated and had two) are from a trip with my 8-month old to visit his great-grandparents. Moments well worth the hours of busy-baby-wrangling on an airplane: http://3saltydogs.blogspot.com/2010/09/this-moment_10.html

I remember how, after she was born, you couldn't stop looking at her and saying, "THAT came out of me!" Although she wasn't a huge baby, it seemed amazing that she could have fit in that space in your body. And now you get to marvel that "THAT" intelligent, loving soul (twelve, going on thirty-five) came from you & Pete. She is still every bit the miracle she was that day.

I had the same thought yesterday, that it will be a roller coaster, with a lot of the big hills in the beginning. Maybe not every day, but every month will get easier. One of the benefits of this life you & Pete have chosen is that you are raising the world's most adaptable children. Adapting a hugely important skill, I think, and one many of their overscheduled, never-allowed-outside-their-comfort-zone peers will not find easily. If Nicholas did not thrive in Montessori, I would die from shock. He loves doing what his "sissas" do, and school will be no exception. Now, can we just find a way for him to ride a bus?

While I know school has its own set of challenges, I think it'll be a little easier when you only have one to keep track of/entertain/prevent from killing each other some of the time. I can offer some unpacking/organizing help, if you want. Or even clean the cat box; that's how much I love you.

Congratulations, Cait! What IS it with kids and blue ice cream? Do grown-ups ever order it?

You and Pete are each making sacrifices for the good of your family. Neither is bigger, or more important. It is undoubtedly tough to realize that there's only so much you can do to ease his burdens, or he yours. But while strong as a family, you are also strong as individuals. Don't make me come over and sing "I will survive" with you. The girls would die of embarassment. Although it'd probably amuse Nick.

Thank you, thank you, thank you! And *I* will reverse the trend of remarking on how big your kids are growing. Holy COW, Nate looks huge on Cait's lap!

Since its inception in 1997, I have never seen the Dinoia Family fail to meet a challenge. I saw the first overseas tour cement your (at the time, little) nuclear family, and have since seen you all make the most of every situation thrown your way, after a sometimes-bumpy getting-used-to-it period. This will be no exception. DO keep asking for help; your friends want to give it. It doesn't have to be a major event to justify assistance. If you'd like the guilty pleasure of a haircut and cuppa joe solo; say the word. If you and a tween need a break from one another, send her her Auntie's way. Heck, I can even send Mark over to clutter up the place if you're feeling nostalgic. Except he cannot be persuaded to use any towels that aren't already disintegrating. :)

I actually haven't gotten any comments or dirty looks, but my 2 thoughts: 1) I once (while nursing Nate) watched a mom in the Target cafe settle her 4-year old with crayons then pull out a nursing cover for her 9-month old. The 4-year-old asked, "What do you need that for?" Mom answered, "for privacy." The 4-year old nodded and said, "Oh, she doesn't want to see anyone while she eats." I LOVED that that was the only privacy concern she could think of! 2)We should stage a "nurse-in" at Hooters. Because you *know* some idiot (who came there to look at boobs) would complain.

Way to go, Kelsey and Jen!

What a beautiful shot of your family!! I know how rare it is to get everyone in one shot, yet alone color-coordinated and smiling. I think Pete needs a black shirt and red tie (mafia-style) for next year, though, so am off to order that online. Can't wait to see the girls in the pageant video!

My heart still swells when I hear the opening overture of the Nutcracker. 25 years later, I vividly recall waiting in the wings when the orchestra started playing on opening night. It didn't matter at all that I was in a mouse suit, not a tutu; it was magical. So glad your sweet girl got to experience that rush!

We are so, so proud of you, Cait!

I agree with Nick; that is one pretty girl!

I think now, as I did then, that you managed to be an amazing mom and daughter at such a tough time, and that your mom would be so proud to see that. And you are right, definitely irises!

Awesome!

Well, I know GODparents were waiting impatiently for pics :) TOO cute. I especially love Nick trading candy. Kelsey's costume and makeup are great! Caitlin looked great but will have me to answer to for that Snickers!

Walking on sunshine :)

My $0.02 worth: Bribing isn't wrong; it just loses its effectiveness if they know you'll do it every time. Go, Kelsey!