The Catty Kitchen

Retreat! - Section C

2012-01-29T14:52:00.000-08:00

I think I am gonna start letting the pics do some of the talking for our trip. Our friends finally showed up by the way.

Tave and Mel with sunglasses headbands.

Jenn doing a dance...as usual.

yummy - snacky - lunchy

Mel prepping our craft. We should finish that sometime.

Old lady rocking.

Someone should keep an eye on her.

Aside from the lethal stares, check out our cute matching cowls. I know!

Not sure how you can be sad with two glasses of good wine.

Maybe she just needed her friend.

Ciao!!!

Retreat - Part Deux

2012-01-16T14:13:00.000-08:00

Hello and welcome back to TCK Retreat 2011, Part Deux! Faith and I didn't make it too far down the road from the winery when we stopped to try Crown Valley Brewing.

I am not sure it was necessary, but we each ordered a sampler of beers and at this point had still eaten very little.

Wait, that's three samplers...I am pretty confident that is not all ours.

Then again...maybe we should head to the cabin. I am starting to get pretty hungry.

Rothbrick Winery - complete with horse trails, two cabins, some ponds and wine! Sidebar - this place is highly recommended by all of us in the Kitchen and have already set our date to visit them next year. If you live in MO, check them out. Lorri and Steve are great hosts!

And the horses came right up to our windows the first night! Aren't they magnificent?

Faith had some trouble containing her excitement so we blew off some energy taking more pics and finding dinner.

This is gonna be, like, the longest set of vacation posts ever and we were only gone two days. I know, right?! We are so amazing.

Retreat! - Part Once

2012-01-02T08:59:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year! How was your last year? If I must say, 2011 kind of got away from us here in the Kitchen. We still hung out for quality girl time, but sometimes seeing each other once a month was difficult to achieve. Never fear though, the 2012 planning meeting is in a couple of weeks so we can make our grandiose plans!

In the meantime though, let's retreat down memory lane, to a simpler time, in fair November, amidst the falling leaves and swirling winds. The whisper of future frost and delicious wine. A time when The Catty girls get out of Dodge for a weekend of ladie's night bliss. And I do mean bliss...

Sunrise on 11-12-2011, Jackson, MO

Faith and I got the roadtrip started this year first thing on Friday morning. Our motto for the weekend was "We can do whatever we want." So we did.

BFF wine and good times, 11-11-2011, Ste. Gen, MO

Our first stop was the Crown Valley winery in Ste. Genevieve. While sampling our wines we watched the bison roam in the field while the sun warmed up the breeze and we could forgo jackets.

Bison at Crown Valley winery, 11-11-2011, Ste. Gen, MO

Good conversation filled the first part of our morning as we paired the wine with camaraderie. We also ran into an old pal from the 80's.

We really wished all of our girls could have been with us. The weather and scenery was beautiful and we were kind of drunk by noon. That's a good thing on vacation. I think we were both grateful for the bonding time we were able to spend together though too. From what I understand, Mel and Jenn tightened their bonds on the car ride to the cabin the following morning.

Check back next Sunday for Part Deux as it seems we have some catching up to do! Mooches!!!

Catty Cuteness

2011-09-27T17:30:00.000-07:00

Sometimes you just need to grab a BFF, a bearded photographer, some scarfs and make the face! Voila! Instant photo-cutes!

Anyone up for some TCK Glamour Shots? With some cool 80's hair and sequined blazers with shoulder pads?

TCK Off Washington

2011-09-05T13:10:00.000-07:00

We are gathered here today (well, Saturday actually) to witness the matrimony and smooches and all that other lovey-dovey stuff of Micah and Betsy (Honorary TCK Girl)! Congrats friends and thanks for having us. What a fun evening!

The Happy Couple

TCK Shuffle

Us trying to look like we were invited and Betsy scoffing at the notion...he he hee

Arm-in-arm and in luv

From the left: OP, Bets, Angel, F-Bomb and The Kuhn

Where the night ended...getting a jump. Luckily this was not the wedding-mobile.

We hope you guys enjoy your honeymoon and all of your gifts. Betsy, I think it might be time you host The Catty Kitchen to your new digs...just saying.

RetroBlogging - Wing Ding 2011

2011-07-31T07:07:00.000-07:00

Back in April, F-Bomb and her hubby decided to throw a party to honor an American favorite - the small and succulent chicken wing. Several tantalizing entries were prepared and not all just your typical HOT wings. There were chili wings, smoked apricot, sesame and FIRE to name a few.

Judges at the ready.....GO!

There were also some snacks to help soothe the heat, compliment the flavors and satisfy the non-meat eaters at the event. The chili or bean soup or whatever it was, was amazing by the way.

While the votes were being counted the Dingers in attendance filled their gullets further with a chicken snack...

This loony rice krispie concoction was a hit and welcome follow up to the savory services of the day. What's that? Oh wait, the votes have been counted.

And we have a winner-winner-chicken dinner! The "Chile Wangs" took home the prize. Gigantic bottles filled with ranch dressing and a vat of hot sauce. Woot!

Now, technically, this is not a TCK event. It was all Faith and Tim's, but it got me to thinking. Why doesn't the Catty Kitchen host an event? I mean, we would obviously be really good at it and how cute would it be? I know, right. New Year's kind of seems like a natural option for us, but I would love to be in attendance at any event we host. Mud-wrestling and slip-n-slide anyone?

Sweet 15!

2011-07-17T11:33:00.000-07:00

In less than a week, one of our young TCK members is turning 15! Lord does that make me feel old! But at least I'm a "cool" aunt and don't look old...yet! :)

Happy Birthday month Kora! We love you dearly and here are a few reasons why.

Your hair! Most defiantly, your hair!
Your kind heart
Your natural beauty. I hope one day you will see just how beautiful you are!
Your passion for art and music
Your fashion and creativity - keep it up!
They way you meet your struggles head on and overcome them to make you stronger
and so much more...

An Official Welcome

2011-06-27T12:35:00.000-07:00

On behalf of

The Catty Kitchen and TCK Mini

we would like to extend

a warm and fuzzy

welcome

to our newest brother

ELLIOTT

For a Friend's Birthday

2011-06-13T12:46:00.000-07:00

Hot Faith has a birthday coming up this week. Can you guess her age this year? I know I am starting to lose track, probably because more important than knowing her age is the time I get to spend with her. Here are just a few things I love about my friend.

1. We enjoy a lot of the same things and often do them in each others company (girl therapy at its finest!) - wine, sushi, coffee, lists, post-its, nail polish, Tori and flipping through magazines.
2. Friday Morning coffees - we haven't done these regularly in a while, but having coffee with her in the mornings is probably my favorite way to start the day.
3. She knows me - and gives me my space, picks me up (literally and figuratively) when I need it, holds some secrets for me (there aren't many) and usually has the best medicine for a stressed out mommy.
4. Faith is the kindest hostess, making sure everyone could have anything they possibly need and enjoys doing it.
5. Our giddy, girly, catty emails get me through the work day.
6. Geeking out to Twilight with her. I am not sure I should have admitted to that. :)
7. Her love of pop music/tv/culture keeps me connected to what's hip.
8. Faith loves working on that farm and I love that she loves it so.

I always tell Faith she is like the sister I never had. I love sharing clothes with you. I love having coffee with you. I love geeking out with you. I love calling you my friend. I hope you have a wonderful birthday!

Happy Birthmonth, Friend!

2011-06-07T07:25:00.000-07:00

I love my wonderful friend, Faith so much, it's ridiculous. Allow me to show you some reasons:
1.) We're very photogenic together, as seen below. All photographs with dear Faith and I are an awealot amalgamation of adorable and conceit.

2.) We're classy ladies. We proved that during our stint as politicians' wives. Just the right amount of wine, not enough buckets of rum.

3.) Our ability to knowingly be terrible influences on each other. For example, you'll notice there are two empty buckets underneath the one with rums in it. You'll also notice we don't have owl tattoos, this is not because we decided it was an unreasonable plan to get wasted at noonish and get impromptu tattoos. It's because Tim pulled the iPhone card. Still got a great day with my friend out of the deal.

4.) Look how cute we are!

5.) I just know we would have had a blast at childhood sleepovers together. Mostly because we have so much fun at grownup sleepovers together.

6.) We have so much fun no matter what we're doing. I'm so happy to have such a marvelous friend that will never leave me for a baby (not that I think the rest of you have left me). We're the coolest aunts around, even when we're by ourselves.

I love you, Faith. I'm so lucky I had to nerve to make you talk to me just over three years ago, now I have an amazing lifetime friend. Happy birthday and I can't wait to have a beer or five to celebrate.

Ferguson Twilight run/walk 5K

2011-05-05T07:57:00.001-07:00

The 2nd annual Ferguson Twilight run/walk 5k is quickly approaching. It's only a little over a week away! The Catty Kitchen will be representin'! Will you be there? There is still time to register.

What a great way to see Ferguson on foot and spend time with some friends and get some exercise in the process.

Dust off those shoes and see you there!

Why I love my future sister-in-law.

2011-04-16T13:45:00.000-07:00

Monday, one of my best friends is turning 30! From the moment we met, I just knew we would get along great. Hmmm, maybe it was when she asked me if I crochet. Actually, maybe it was when she first invited me to Faith's house for a bottle of wine. Or, wait, maybe it was when we almost died together on the highway and then treated ourselves to Slurpees. Whenever it was, I'm so glad to have such an awesome lady to call my friend.

In the spirit of TCK 2011 birthday posts:

A list of all things Octavia.

She always has the ability to help me through a crocheted brick wall.
Work, school, hubby, kids, home...she does it all.
First of all, her sass.
That innocent smile she gives you when administering the aforementioned sass.
She is always down for a good cuddle.
Our mutual understanding that NOT driving to Chicago on a Monday afternoon for a concert only to be at work on Tuesday morning was not an option.
Our Cosmetic Connection, it's an Aries' thing. Not even other Aries get it.
She managed to bring my miniature soul mate into this world exactly one year prior to even meeting me, and isn't even creeped out by my friendship with her daughter who is 22 years my junior (at least not openly creeped).

On a separate note, this amazing friend has not only fulfilled the above list and more, she and her family have provided me with a home just barely second to my own. Going to their house is as easy as going home. I love the bond we all have and I am so proud to call them my family.

Happy birthday, OP!

Next up...OP!

2011-04-12T12:40:00.000-07:00

And next up in the birthday line up is our dear OP.

This woman is so amazing! I often think of her as superwoman. Not only is she one of the BEST mother's I have ever seen, she's a wife, student, part-time employee and one of the best friends a girl could ask for. OP, you're a beautiful, wonderful person and I'm so thankful to call you my friend.

List O Love:

Your motivation
Your hair! I love it short
I love that we make lists together
We can geek out over magazines and red wine
Tori Amos
Your huge heart
Your support
TCK 4 EVA

Hope you're having a wonderful birthday month. Can't wait to celebrate with you.

Presenting Presents and Presence

2011-04-03T18:34:00.000-07:00

For her berfday she had got...

...Chocolate Ale in a bag

Mushroom socks for her feets...

...bend doz hooks around yo wrists

See look, dey go like dis...

...Sexy dice fo at cho house

goD's eye will be on you...

...dis button on yo box

won't give it all away

but make you cry...

...and all us sigh

fo you on your berfday! Word!

Count them...seven large teddy bears around her neck.

Dis OPP signing off, ya digg!

Birthday Mojo

2011-03-25T19:55:00.000-07:00

If you wanna come and take a ride with me, I can take you to the place where the Catty Kitchen will be...

Rolling with the homies

Hooray! Jenn turns 26 today and is finally out of diapers. To celebrate her new-found adulthood we took her to Mojo's Tapas restaurant for some good eats.

The menu and drink selection was more extensive than I think we all anticipated and it was fun to try some new things. I drank my first mojito and feel like a total hipster now. Jennifer actually tried some food with mushrooms on it and didn't gag.


Edamame Hummus and Billy Goat Chips

Our night was undeniably tame in comparison to other events aside from Jennifer opening her gifts which was a riot. We did, however, look amazing (duh) and were certainly the most exuberant group in the house.

Amy is quickly becoming one of the funniest people I've met.

Beautiful mommy Mel and OP swapping tales.

Unfortunately there were so many pics of the gifts I feel it needs its own spotlight so look for that. In the meantime, if you love you some Jennifer holla atcha gurrl and tell her happy birthday!

Birthday Girl

A Birthday Song

Make it happen on yo berfday

If yo name is J-Fer Kuhn

We ain't bring no damn pinatas

And we popped all dem balloonz

Count up seven teddy bears

and drink yo liquor straight

god has got her "eye" on you

and mushrooms on yo plate

Next year on yo berfday

we may not even sing

But bust a move and shake yo thing

if you love TCK!

Why I love me some Jennifer

2011-03-22T04:54:00.000-07:00

Accidentally, once, I professed my true love for Jennifer...in front of my brother...who also happens to be her boyfriend. Talk about awkward. I meant it too even though I was under the influence. My shocking revelation came as a bit of a surprise to all of us I think, but I have some very good reasons for my love of this child.

Jennifer is my crocheting buddy.
Jennifer passed the sister-in-law test.
Jennifer will embark on crazy adventures.
Jennifer has marvelous skin.
Jennifer is the kind of friend we should all strive to be. I wish I was half as good as her.
Jennifer likes to dance.
Jennifer is not afraid to cry. In fact, she does it a lot.
Jennifer's love of tacky goods is not at all offensive and fits her perfectly.
Jennifer may be genetically connected to one of my children somehow.
Jennifer is my cosmetic connection.

Jennifer, I wish you the happiest 26th going on 16th birthday ever. Please consider this your irrevocable contract into sisterhood. I believe I speak for all of us when I say you make us very happy.

Love,
Caesar

I heart J-Fer!

2011-03-12T20:46:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday month Jenn! In honor of you, I have prepared a little poem.

My friend Jenn is so dear to me,
she doesn't even charge me a fee.
She's my friend no matter what,
and never a pain in my butt.
I hope she knows just how much I love her,
and that she will always be my one and only J-Fer!

Okay so pretty lame, I know but you get the point. Jenn is awesome and she knows it! Which is one of the many many things I love about her. And here are a few other things I love about Jenn.

Her confidence in herself
The fact that she can rock a silver teddy bear necklace
Her kind heart
Glee
That we can geek our and cry at lame movies or tv shows or a song
Her love for beer
Knowing that she's always there no matter what

I could go on and on. J-Fer is a cool cat and I'm very lucky to call her my friend!

The End

J is for Jennifer

2011-03-12T14:43:00.000-08:00

J - Jennifer

E - Ennifer

N - Nnifer

N -Nifer

I - Ifer

F - Fer

E - Er

R - R

Make the Face for Amy! Whoo!

2011-03-06T08:10:00.000-08:00

Happy birthday Stamy

Happy birthday Amy

Happy birthday Pope Amy

Happy birthday to you!

She loved her vintage cookbook and spices from Penzey's.

At Onesto's we enjoyed too long of a wait and homemade Sangria. Oh yeah, and Vin Diesel was spinning the pies.

Once we were seated the evening was fabulous and the food was fantastic. I can't wait to go there again and not have to wait so long.

Amy digs into her ham sandwich with turkey on it.

I am shoving an amazing slice of pizza into my gut.

Jenn eerily eyeballs TCK's baby mama's dinner. Mel looks so cute with her belly.

And somehow, after harassing our waiter Todd all night, he agreed to take our photo. He put up with a lot so I hope we tipped him right.

Thanks Amy for inviting us to your beautiful home and joining our exclusive club. Thanks other girls for the chance to hang out. It was nice to see everyone. And happy, tappy, sappy birthday to Pope Amy! Way to kick off the year right.

Spring Fever!

2011-02-24T06:05:00.000-08:00

I think I speak for all of the Catty Girls when I say "Good god I'm ready for Spring!".

We had a nice taste of the sunny warmer weather just to be slapped in the face with more cold and wet. I'm longing for green grass, flowering trees, and bonfires with the girls!

I know it's just around the corner, I can feel it. Maybe I'm being a tad impatient. I can't help it! Warmer weather usually means more time spent outside and more time with the Catty clan. We have a whole year of fun planned and I'm anxious to get this party started! Bring it on TCK!

On that note, who's excited to kick off Birthday season this Saturday?

Let's Make a List! - Twilight Edition

2011-02-23T14:32:00.000-08:00

(source)

Imagine that...a group of girls that likes romantic bloodsucking vampires. Yes, we like this stuff too...well, most of us here at TCK do. It all started with those damned books, which I picked up because I wanted a quick, not-too-involved read. I got my first wish, but that is only because my second wish wasn't granted therefore I was unable to put it down until I finished each one. It was pretty ridiculous, but I embraced my silly, lustful love of Edward and then Robert Pattinson. My, my he is dreamy! Faith brought me up to speed on the latest movie installation in the series last week and we had a blast watching the story further unfold. So we thought, let's make a list of what we LOVE about Twilight.

Edward
Jacob
Shirtless werewolves
Sparkly, somewhat vegetarian vampires
Book #3
Kristen Stewart's inability to act
The soundtrack
Melissa's reinvention of the soundtrack as the movie progresses
Other movie patrons casting filthy glances our way because we cannot contain our laughter

Jenn's Famous!

2011-02-08T11:48:00.000-08:00

As you may recall, TCK "participated" in the Ferguson Twilight 5k last year. It was a blast and we're looking forward to signing up again this year.

I receive email updates and information about this event regularly. This morning though, I opened this lovely brochure and who's cute little face did I see...our very own J-Fer Kuhn! Way to go Jenn. You're an inspiration to all of us! Maybe this year we'll carry a mini keg and cheeseburgers instead of hard lemon-aid and dirt cake! HAHA! Either way, I can't wait!

Want more information about this year's 5k? Click on the link below and sign up today! The Catty Kitchen will be there, will you?

http://www.livewellferg5k.com/

Pope Stamy

2011-02-07T13:09:00.000-08:00

I love Stamy, yes I do.

I love Stamy, she is new.

I love Stamy in a stew.

I love Pope Stamy.

Stamy is my newest friend amongst those Catty girls and it's her birthday this month. Her real name escapes me, but as far as TCK goes she will be known as The Pope. I would like to tell you a few of the reasons why this Caesar loves her some Stamy-Amy.

First of all - She invited me to her shower and wedding. The shower was humid. The wedding was so gorgeous and tasteful.

B. She had a photo booth at her reception. Sweet!

3. She lives in the city.

4. I hear tale she is very good with money. I wish more people were.

C. She is not at all annoying.

And finally, she has a good attitude and fits right in to our little coven of sorceresses.

I hope you have a spectacular birthday, my dear.

XO-OP

It's FebruAMY!

2011-02-03T13:51:00.000-08:00

Let The Catty Kitchen Birthday season begin!

We start off with our newest member,

Amy Stamy Schmidt.

Let's list just a few things I love about this girl!

Her obsession with Prince!
She's not only a rockstar (as pictured above) she's funny, sweet and a hoot to be around
She loves antiques
Even though I haven't known her long I feel like we've been friends forever
Her long hair
and too much more to list

Thanks for joining our group Stamy. We love you to pieces and hope you enjoy your TCK birthday month!

Let's Make a List!

2011-02-01T07:54:00.000-08:00

image source

Here are a few things that I will do today during the Great Blizzard of 2011:

Stay glued to Storm Mode on all news stations
Play on the Internet (Facebook, Google Reader, weather sites and google random things)
Drink a pot of coffee
Watch Tim play video games (while playing on the Internet)
Watch the sleet/snow
Laundry
Be lazy
Maybe do a little blogging
Email friends
Make ricotta pancakes and sausage for lunch or dinner

What will you be doing?

Hi House!

2011-01-29T13:06:00.000-08:00

January 21, 2011 7:00 PM - The Catty Kitchen and Honorary Members begin arriving at My Crib for the inaugural meeting.

7:01 PM - The noise and chaos level escalates.

7:04 PM - I open a bottle of red. The evening has begun.

HAPPY NEW YEAR TCK AND WELCOME!

We had so much fun we have hardly a photo to share. Let's start with the new faces...Stamy, would you please stand up? That's her up there on the left looking rosy and cozy next to J-Fer. Stamy is a world renown marine biologist who dedicates her life to the pursuit of wrestling deep-sea anglers. As she dries off in her spare time you can find her reading Chaucer and snacking on blackberry scones. Welcome Stamy!

Next, we were paid a visit by a special gal from Kalamazoo. Would you please give a hand to Shawnee?! Again on the left, Shawnee met Melissa while learning the tango at a local dance studio while Mel was in college. She has met Robert Duvall and sings Cher songs in the shower. This non-local lass is our newest honorary TCK patron. Hooray for Shawnee!

Sadly, our petite Catty girl, Kora Ducky was present, but her purple hair managed to elude my lens. She is such a spunky monkey. I love it!

Next on the agenda (yes, we had an official agenda) was the planning for birthdays and future soirees. We are all pretty stoked about the upcoming year. For the birthday season this year we have decided to let each birthday girl choose what they would like to do and the rest of us make it happen. We also decided on our Royal Titles. You may now refer to each of us as follows:

Faith - Emperor

Jennifer - Her Highness

Melissa - High Priestess

Amy - Pope (although Faith and I think she should be Pharaoh...just saying)

Octavia - Caesar

In addition to our new nomenclatures which command respect, we have a few new blog features. First, for each girl's birthday they will get an individual post from each of us to celebrate her day. We discussed a cookbook challenge and dinner club to try something new. And the High Priestess will have her baby show at the end of April! The Emperor and I also thoroughly enjoy making lists and have decided to post our random lists from time to time and invite the other Catty ladies in the world to join us.

We never did paint our nails, but the colors sat there and laughed with us all night.

XO,

Caesar

It's coming!

2011-01-14T09:01:00.001-08:00

Can you feel it? This month's TCK night is only a week away! OMG, are you making the face? I know we are. Can't hardly contain ourselves!

This being the first "meeting" of the year we will be discussing the following (but not limited to) -

Items To Calendar and/or Discuss:
Birthday celebrations
Once a month get togethers
Blogging
Mel’s baby
Making an oath and swearing to it
Dinner club?
Book club?
Cookbook club?
Grant title for each TCK member

In addition to this agenda we will also be drinking wine, playing a board game, painting nails, being catty...you know, the usual. Don't forget to check back to see an update of this epic event.

PS - Be sure to check out the new poll posted to the right!

Thanksgiving Revisited

2010-12-29T19:55:00.000-08:00

Who says you can only be thankful one day of the year, right? Well, that's why I purposefully (ahem) saved the Catty Thanksgiving post until a later date. I am feeling pretty thankful today, so I figured now is as good a time as any to write this post.

The "tablescape" complete with homemade place mats that I received for my birthday from the Catty girls.

Hor'dourves (however the heck you spell that) and desserts

Sides!

Cheese tray

Katie and Chris carefully plate the chicken

Blurry chicken

Delicious Greek salad

Super cute kids

boys being boys

Happy Thankful Day from the Catty Girls and their men and children!

Get Cho Cookie On!

2010-12-28T08:07:00.000-08:00

Cookie Bake 2010 was a quiet affair this year, but a winner nonetheless. We ended up with a low cookie count, but all the dough was baked which doesn't always happen.

As usual we had one attendee who was sick...A petite attendee to try all the goods...and the rest of us baked and drank until we were Mary, I mean merry.

Also this year we opted for a random gift exchange with $15 limit instead of buying for everyone. It was a hit and somehow we all chose the number of the most appropriate gift for ourselves. Weird.

Sadly, there are no pics of our sick friend or our honorary Cattee (love you Megan). We were also short one member this year, but I can't wait to see her back when life gets on track. I also heard the Pfuhn's are getting down on New Year's and TCK was invited. Should be a hoot. And on that note we look forward to seeing you in 2011. Faith will be a farmer, Jenn is trying a new schedule, I turn 30, Jenna will earn her Master's degree and Mel will be a mommy. It's a big year.

XOXO,

The Catty Kitchen

Merry Merry

2010-12-08T09:36:00.000-08:00

Happy Holiday's from the Catty Kitchen!
May your gloves warm your fingers and your hot cocoa warm your heart.

PS - We deeply apologize for not sharing stories and pictures of our Catty Kitchen Thanksgiving. It seems as though, Melissa failed to do her part and post a blogy blog entry. We will reprimand her and make sure something it posted as soon as possible.

To make up for the lack of a Thanksgiving post, here are a few more pics from our Catty Kitchen Retreat

We Went on a Trip

2010-10-27T20:48:00.000-07:00

We are back from the first annual Catty Kitchen retreat and I think it was a smash! We took a whole weekend just for us girls at the Lake of the Ozarks-maneuvering their new highway and relaxing in a penthouse that far exceeded our needs. Since their is so much to share I am opting to break this in to several posts because chances are you have been dying to hear more from us anyway. By the way, these may not be in any sort of order whatsoever.

Skipping over Mel's birthday to our stop off in Hermann...the drive to Hermann was the prettiest stretch we could see while on the road. Freshly shaved sheep, autumnal changes in the leaves, overcast, but well lit sky and rolling hills with a coolness in the air. We (well me-I don't think anyone else saw this) also saw two white doves canoodling atop a window unit AC. First time I have ever seen them live and they were beautiful.

Arrival...Fa and Je cozy up in a alley

Outside of Tin Mill Brewery...the beer was good and the place was subtle but classy for a brewhouse.

Evidently in Hermann bathrooms are strictly relegated to the basement.

Mel checking the settings on her new birthday pressie.

Jfer takes shelter from the wind in a tiny tree.

All in all Hermann was very pretty, but quite small. They did have one hell of an antique shop and German fare around every corner. Quaint is a good word for it.

Then we hit the dusty trail, pulling our wind tussled locks into side ponytails a la "Deb" fashion.

The lake was calling our names.

HAPPY HALLOWEEN

2010-10-27T06:00:00.000-07:00

TCK Retreat

2010-10-22T09:10:00.000-07:00

What's a "retreat" without an agenda?!

On the Road Again

2010-10-21T18:03:00.000-07:00

We'll see you on Monday because this weekend we are retreating to the Lake of the Ozarks! On our agenda is wine drinking (except for sweet Melissa), gossip, nail polish, pumpkin beer, pumpkin carving, pumpkin donuts, birthday party, shopping, wine drinking, coffee, singing, pictures, slumber party...the list goes on a while. What can I say? We like alcohol and pumpkins.

Just a peek

2010-10-18T07:07:00.001-07:00

Here is a sneak peek of the Catty Kitchen photo shoot. More to come...

It's Melissa's Birthday month!

2010-10-13T06:14:00.000-07:00

That's right, that pretty lady up there is turning the big 3-0 in just a few days! Finally, there will be another member of the thirty something club! =)

Sweet Melissa is not only the baker of the Catty Kitchen, she's also our warrior. This girl has been through a lot over the last couple years but things are finally starting to look up (times two) and we are oh so happy for her! Her strength and courage is such an inspiration to our little gang. We love you Melissa and can't wait to celebrate you.

Does this purse match my shoes?

2010-09-18T07:42:00.000-07:00

This month's TCK meeting was mixed with a little thing we like to call Purse Party. Not to be confused with Food Party on IFC. A Purse Party is where someone comes to your house (who's identity shall remain unknown) and displays beautiful bags and a few accessories throughout the house and you shop! It's not like those other parties where you have to wait for your order to come in...NO, you get your bags right then and there! AWESOME!

The night went off without a hitch (aside from the fact that Sweet Melissa could not attend).
The Hostess Hog, Faith LaBeaume obviously hosted this event. The house was filled with family and friends, laughs and smiles and of course checkbooks. Needless to say, we had a blast. Let me walk you through the highlights of the evening...

Let's look at the photo below, oh no ladies and gents, it may be hard to believe but these bags were not purchased at the party, they belong to TCK members, Jenna and Octavia. We're a classy bunch after all.
Jenna won the prize for purchasing the most bags! She had such a hard time deciding that she was constantly on the phone and sending photo texts. In then end, she bought them all.

Of course this wouldn't be a Hostess Hog party without food and wine! Sadly we did not get around to making smore's. Maybe next time!

Toward the end of the evening, even Barley Doo joined the fun. What a good dog!

Thanks to all who came out to make this event so successful. TCK appreciates your participation and support.

Stay tuned to next month where TCK hits the road for their first ever retreat!! Ooooooo Ahhhhhh

Hooty Hoo!

2010-09-12T06:00:00.000-07:00

How fricking cute is this! We heard tale you can pick one up at Kohl's. And have you noticed the prices on owl stuff in the thrift stores has gone up? Those little buggers are earning that dough.

Hope you had a great weekend!

Alright already!

2010-09-07T18:01:00.000-07:00

Ok, so the "gentle" reminders finally got to me. While I have tons of homework to do, I was also running out of room on my camera (I like to have ample space for impromptu photo shoots with Gamora.), so here it is! The first(ish) gathering after our sad, but necessary switch from every Thursday to once a month Fridays!
I hosted, which I'm not very good at, so it was wine and gossip! Simple, but something we're very good at. Faith and I met up early to work out and then immediately make up for it by gathering our delightful spread.
We tried to keep under what we burned calorie-wise, but I don't think it worked. We did, however, find an amazing upgrade to a Catty Kitchen must. Not only did we have Red Hot Riplets, we had CHEESY Red Hot Riplets!!! What!! HOLY COW!!!

There was a varied assortment of Old Vienna snacks, but these stole the show. They were amazing, and I'm not sure if anyone else got any because Faith and I chowed down. And looked really cute in the process, as usual.

The rest of the night consisted of sitting around,

painting nails,

chit chatting,

Faith's foot rub (from our tiny friend),

and an attempt at a cute group picture. I think I broke my neck.

Till next month! I mean this month!

Great Wedding Reception Idea!

2010-09-05T09:14:00.000-07:00

So we look dreadfully tired, but what a fun idea for a reception.

One copy goes to the picturees...

...and another to the happy couple in a keepsake book.

Great idea and icebreaker for a reception. Keeps it from being a stuffy event, ya know what I mean? And everyone gets something to take home. Love it!

I Punched a Werewolf in the Face . . .

2010-08-25T16:23:00.000-07:00

and then Jacob melodramatically ripped off his shirt and wrapped my wound with it.

Some of the Catty girls (okay, just two of the three Twilight geeks in the group) went to see the new Twilight movie, Eclipse. I guess our only justification for actually paying to see it in the theater was 1. that the theater has special deals weekly reducing our ticket price to only $5, and 2. it's more fun when you have fellow movie-goers to annoy by laughing through the movie (when it's not intended to be funny).

Here we are, getting our geek on:

My cute little kiddie box blended in with my shirt.

We're Ba-ack!

2010-08-22T07:16:00.000-07:00

It's Official. The Catty Kitchen has finally got its shit together and are ready to blog, drop and roll. Seriously. We will be trying out a new format for girls' night and the data upkeep to hopefully make it easier on us busy TCK ladies and keep you in the loop more consistently. Because really, who wants to miss out on what we're doing? I know I don't. So, look for us next Friday casually sipping wine and egregiously gossping at J-Fer's house. Hope you can make it and in the meantime check out what we did on Friday.

Scarlett opened her first studio space! We are so proud of her for teaming up with Maven to give herself some room to make all those pretty accessories you will often find us wearing. And guess what else? If you have any old, tired or broken jewelry you just can't seem to part with, Scarlett Garnet offers classes to revamp the pieces and give them a new life. You may remember we tried this a while back and came away with some fantastic pieces.

The feisty jeweler is ferociously protecting her wares.

And look what you could get for free with the purchase of any other piece! Talk about a bargain. Ms. Scarlett will also very kindly adjust the fit of any piece you buy while you are right there. Thanks Kate!

Afterward, we headed to the Schlafly Bottleworks around the corner from her shop to catch up with another catty mistress, her husband and some work buddies.

The meal was hardly vegetarian between the pulled pork, bison nachos, bison burger and mountainous plate of sausages. The pumpkin beer was out too, but Schlafly's pumpkin has never been my favorite. Too clove-y for me this time, but the APA was rocking.

This speaks to so many facets of my German heritage...OMG!

F-Bomb and I split some scrumptious hummus and pita. Then Faith left a treat for the bus boy...

So fricking gross! Can't wait to be back next Friday with the whole gang. It's been far too long ladies.

Happy Very Belated Birthday to Faith!

2010-07-20T19:29:00.000-07:00

Sooooooooooo, whilst we did celebrate F-Bomb's birthday in person, we neglected her very own birthday blog post and for this we are deeply sorry. Time to make up for lost time and time to start getting our blog on more often. I mean really............

Look at how precious she is.

One of several gifts hand-picked especially for our dear hostess with the mostess.

(no, we did not make her host her own soiree)

A new book of cook which included the recipe for her yummy cake.

Cookbook stand assembly is easier done when you are working with two functional thumbs.

Homemade crochet art for her guest bedroom...this had all the potential to go very wrong, but I think the birthday girl likes it. What say you?

A good luck crochet sea stone and a goodbye kiss from the Lovely Lady LaBeaume.

Happy birthday Faith! We love everything about you!

And then there were two...

2010-07-09T07:59:00.000-07:00

We have really been slacking on blogging and that's because we have also been slacking on girls night. We went from meeting every Thursday to practically not meeting at all, cold turkey! Everyone has just been so busy that's it's too hard to keep a weekly commitment. So...a Catty Kitchen meeting has been called and on the agenda is to discuss meeting one Friday a month. I think that's doable but we'll see. More to come on that.

Last night two of the Catties hit the town. A friend from high school (Jenny - shown above) was in for a short trip, so Octavia and Faith decided to head down to Highlands Brewery and join the happy hour fun. I have to say, it was pretty darn tasty. We ate too much and drank just the right amount. I see a field trip back there in the near future. It was a fun night catching up with old friends and I'm glad we had the opportunity to go.

That's right! We ate pub chips, fried guacamole, sliders and 10 beers! And everything was o-so-tasty!

Oh and btw Faith's birthday was a blast! She's so great and we're glad she had such a wonderful birthday. All the Catty girls worked so hard to make her celebration awesome and I think it was a success. Now time to plan Melissa's big day!!
Ciao!

First Annual Twilight 5k Run

2010-05-16T08:06:00.000-07:00

Sooooo, in spite of a dreary weather day Ferguson's First Annual Twilight 5k Run went off without a hitch. Over 600 runners and walkers gathered at Florissant Rd. and Suburban to support the effort to "Live Well". And of course, the Catty Kitchen didn't miss the chance to make an appearance.

Pre-Race birthday celebration

Free beer samples, although I am not sure how this is 'living well' prior to race running, but it sure was tasty.

Another "Live Well" faux pas.........pre-race sugar cookies

The starting line..........

The finish line....somewhere along the way we picked up cocktails and a cake.

Jenna's post-race beautification

Finally, we made it to the new Hill Brewing Co. for post race beers and eats. Good job to the city of Ferguson for hosting cool events for your residents to participate in. Woot!

Full photo set here

Happy Birthday You Butthead!

2010-05-16T07:14:00.000-07:00

Jenna's 26! Time for a Catty birthday revelation, congregation, separation of church and station, CELEBRATION! But let's back up for a second.

For whatever reason, birthday season seems to be passing us swiftly this year with all of us left exhausted in its path. We have been ill-prepared for three birthdays so far this year and we still have two more to go. Hence the reason J-Fer is up there hurriedly trying to finish one of Jenna's presents-a homemade bath mitt/scrubbie.

J-Fer also took on the task of cake making for our birthday queen-dirt cake with a worm race to celebrate the Ferguson twilight run (post to follow). It looks like Jennifer's Microsoft Paint pictures.

In the meantime, birthday girl decided it might be time for an outfit change....

She seriously brought two extra outfits, flat iron, hairspray and all kinds of other tricks to keep her looking magnificent throughout the day.

Today's lucky birthday girl scored a bath bomb, bath mitts, bath beads (what can I say, she is kind of stinky), homemade coasters, homemade Rocky Road, Bounce dryer bar (don't ask), adorable reusable grocery tote and her Christmas gift from Jennifer.....a hand-glazed frog to match her bathroom.

Happy Birthday Jenna!!!! We love you very much.

Full photo set here.

JENNA!!!

2010-05-03T07:35:00.000-07:00

Up next on the Birthday trail is our sweet Jenna Marie!

We are very excited to celebrate this little princess. In addition to the traditional special girls night, The Catty Kitchen has signed up for the Ferguson Twilight 5k, which is the day before Jenna's birthday. I'm sure there will be a little something in her honor that night as well. You'll just have to check back and see...

"I just like to suck 'em down!"

2010-04-18T08:11:00.000-07:00

And Octavia wasn't even the one who said it.
But stories about that girl will have to wait until next month because today is OCTAVIA'S BIRTHDAY!

In preparation of this birthday blog, the entire Catty Kitchen got together for many photo OP's (haha, get it?) and great times.

We started the evening at Faith's house sans the guest of honor to get everything in order and to talk about how much our pretty girl is going to love Plan A, or even Plan B.

With everyone ready to go, we were off the the Pitts' residence for present time!

OP opened her presents from the other kitches while Faith took a very important phone call. Coffee grinder, coffee beans for grinder, microwaveable travel mug for coffee, crochet hook for tiny amigurumi, and hedgehog necklace for wearing! Whew! Quite the list of awesome things.
Now, back to that phone call that seemed unappropriate earlier...our newest member, Katie, called from Faith's house! Plan A (Hill Brewing Co. in Ferguson) had a water main break! And everyone at Plan A moved across the street to Plan B (Cork Wine Bar, also in Ferguson)!!! Two well thought out plans gone in one fell swoop!
After a huddle with hubble, we decided to give Octavia her yarn ball cup cake courtesy of Melissa first and then head down to Yemanja in the city for a new adventure. Katie also had an awesome necklace for the birthday girl and a $5 coupon for Hill Brewing Company for her next attempt at the microbrewery.

The food was amazing, we (eventually) had our own nook of the restaurant, and we had such a great time celebrating our beloved Octavia.

Happy Birthday, Octavia!!!!!1!111!<3<3<3!!!1!!!,<3>

It's April and that means OP Month!

2010-04-02T13:57:00.001-07:00

The month of April is dedicated to our rock, Octavia Pitts! We are very excited to celebrate her birthday girls night in a few short weeks. Let's just hope this year is more of a thrill (last year's birthday girl shown in the photo below).

Whooooo's Turning 25?

2010-03-28T16:07:00.000-07:00

J-Fer is! Huzzah! Welcome to our celebration. The evening was begun with the birthday girl's favorite meal...

...followed up with spirits and presents

...frames to go with her new camera from Jay and a homemade abacus for our quirky math major.

Sweet Melissa supplied our hooty dessert....

...is that "Impale the Owl on a Branch"? I love that game!

Make sure give our birthday girl a shout out wherever you are to help make her day a little more special....just like her! ***Bonus Feature: Click here to visit our kooky pics from the evening.

This month is all about Jennifer!

2010-03-09T12:55:00.000-08:00

It's Jennifer's birthday month and we're going to celebreate! If you will notice the Jennifer poll to the right. Please let us know what you love most about this wonderful gal.

Just a few shorts weeks until the big day and we pamper her with a fun filled birthday Catty girls night! Stay tuned.

Revamp Your Jewelry-A Seminar with Katie of Scarlett Garnet

2010-02-21T08:36:00.000-08:00

This past Thursday we did our first official learn-something-new seminar and it was a smashing success. We hooked up with our good friend Katie, co-owner and designer for Scarlett Garnet, to turn our old and forgotten jewelry into new treasures we will actually wear. There are actually two revamped necklaces in the first pic, but one is hard to discern because it is black. The gold treasure was actually a combination of materials from KT and Faith's extensive montage of costume jewelry. Very rock star!

Up here we have a little insight to the bits and bobbles OP brought along. Thank goodness she was able to do something with this mess.

...The jeweler extraordinaire Miss KT Scarlett. She is a fantastic teacher.

OP's coral beads in mid-restring. She created some matching earrings with the extra beads too.

This is the invisible necklack in the first pic, slightly less invisible. We will get some nice pics of the pieces we created to really show off what we learned. Thanks for everything KT! Can't wait to do this again in a few months.

A Date with The Mad Titans

2010-01-24T08:02:00.001-08:00

So Friday eve's you would have caught us with honorary members Betsy and Sarah, steaming up the Voodoo Lounge at Harrah's casino to see every one's favorite St. Louis surf rock band..........THE MAD TITANS! That's them up there assaulting the audience with soaring melodies and penetrating vocals...oh wait, I think that's Creed. Anyway, the Titans definitely gave those over-the-river folks something to chew on for awhile. Before we knew it the club was all a-buzz with Titan fever. It was certainly a different audience for them, but there were many new listeners that evening that were entranced by their sounds. If you are in the area you should check out their show. Chances are us Catty girls will probably be there too.

J-Fer

Justinsane and Faith

Octavia and Timtanium

Talk to you later!

Fine! Here are some Cookie Bake photos!

2010-01-08T22:10:00.000-08:00

Girl's Night in the New Year

2010-01-08T19:43:00.000-08:00

And it was freezing! We probably didn't have any business being out of our houses, but we just had to get together and be catty.

So we've got a lot of things planned to do this year that we are looking forward to.....for example in an effort to get better at the things we love to do and maybe make some converts out of those who aren't as experienced we are going to do Catty Seminars once a month. It looks like Melissa and Faith will be giving the rest of us tips and hints to improve our cooking and baking. Jenn and Octavia will be expanding the Kitchen's crafty mind. We are not sure what team Jenna is on yet, but I bet she goes with those crafty girls. We are also trying to setup a guest seminar with our favorite jeweler in the Lou.............Katie Miller of Scarlett Garnet. She is going to show how to revamp our old, worn out and sometime ugly jewelry into new accessories.

Look......It's the Mona Lisa with purple balls on her face! Moving on.........

Anyway, since Mel lives far away and is smarter than the rest of us, we had a good time trying to have a video conference with her. It was totally unfair because she came equipped with props and the rest of us just laughed our asses off. We got a chance to catch up with her since she returned from her cruise and discuss all the new plans.

Isn't she so pretty? Our hostess with the mostess guided us through our video conference while we practiced our kegels and discussed the Fatty Catty plan. What is the Fatty Catty plan you say? You'll see.......updates are coming and we are going to have some of the best habits you can think of.

Where is Cookie Bake?

2010-01-08T18:56:00.000-08:00

Can someone please post the photos from cookie bake?! What the hell is going on around here?

Catty Date Night

2009-11-29T08:25:00.001-08:00

Snuggle Up

2009-11-18T15:35:00.000-08:00

Downtown in Melissa's neck of the woods (not really downtown at all) after some treats to eat we all settled in for a Twilight reading while I crocheted and Faith and Jenn got fresh under the blankets. Admittedly we should all be ashamed, but it was a lot of fun!

We will not be attending the premiere of New Moon this weekend, but are headed to Trailhead this Thursday instead. I will have to wait for the DVD.

See how happy they are..............

Pimp My Pumpkin

2009-10-23T18:47:00.001-07:00

Presenting in no particular order

The Catty Pumpkin Patch!

The Wise Owl

Macabre Mel

The Crackhead

Oc Cult

Broken Wind

Jaunty Hutton

Orange Skellington

The Wilkes Witch

Apple Jerk

Killer Kuhn

Mel's 29th

2009-10-18T17:36:00.000-07:00

Yes, we have been away from ze blog, but not from girls' night!!!! Me personally, I kinda got lazy there for a while, but have no fear I am back from the blogging abyss ready to wow you on Thursdays again. And what better way to start than with a celebration of life! Mel is turning 29 and embarking on a life-giving journey of her own. Miss and Chris............GOOD LUCK!!

So here are some pics from our crazy yet mellow, hilarious but yellow under-attended (some of our favorite girls couldn't make it ) birthday party. Above we have the birthday girl questioning whether her bottle is half full or empty and her present below. She received lots of cooking supplies because she is an avid chef and wonderful baker. You can check out her tasty blog here.

As an added bonus, Mel brought her lovely husband along to partake in the festivities.

We also received a surprise visit from my Hubble, made homemade pizzas, had brownie birthday cake and played a rousing bit of Scattergories and the Wii. If you are our friend on Facebook you can see the rest of the pics there.

Let's Trade

2009-09-14T05:08:00.000-07:00

Time to pull out those old decorations you don't want anymore. Or maybe you just need to revamp them. That is what we did Thursday night amidst some great food (we stuffed ourselves).
Dearest Faith is getting an early head start on her Christmas gift making. All we know is that vodka and lemons are involved.

Fabulous Chicken Tortilla Soup (above)

Toppings (below)

The soup was amazing. We took a little tour through the garden to mark progress. I did some painting on a Halloween decoration that needed some help and we all went home with our arms full. On top of all that Melissa made lemon pistachio cookies that were heavenly. As a gift, we have included the recipe for Chicken Tortilla Soup to liven up your chilly autumn days.

Chicken Tortilla Soup:

1 onion, chopped (I use ½ large red onion)
3 cloves garlic, minced (or more if you like)
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 teaspoons chili powder (more like a palm full)
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon cayenne
2 teaspoons cumin (more like a palm full)
1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes (I use two reg. cans of petite diced w/green chilies)
1 (10.5 ounce) can condensed chicken broth (feel free to add stock to taste)
1 1/4 cups water (no water needed)
1 cup whole corn kernels, cooked (or one can)
1 cup white hominy (or 2 if you like) 1 (4 ounce) can chopped green chile peppers (not needed if you use tomatoes w/ green chilies)
1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained (or 2 – I usually don’t rinse)
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
2 boneless chicken breast halves, cooked (or 4 – dice before cooking)
Optional Toppings (but totally a must)
crushed tortilla chips
sliced avocado
shredded Monterey Jack cheese
chopped green onions
sour cream
cilantro

Directions:
1. In a medium stock pot, heat oil over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic in oil until soft. Stir in chili powder, oregano – then add tomatoes, corn, hominy, green chilies, beans, cumin, cayenne and cilantro. Add the chicken and simmer. Salt and pepper to taste.

*Note from Faith: I never really measure any of this but this is a good start. Play around with it until you love it. You really can’t go wrong.

FIELD TRIP!!!

2009-09-06T06:55:00.000-07:00

The Catty Girls got a little crazy this week. We ventured out to the Tap Room to see none other than The Mad Titans play.

Here we are (minus Jenna) showing Octavia just how much we love her.

We showered her with love all night!

And as you may or may not know, to be a part of the Catty Kitchen also means you must be classy. Classy = pinky out!

Be careful Jennifer, that sure is a big glass for such a little girl...

See! Now you have it all down your shirt.

As Jennifer does the pee pee dance Octavia is showing off her mad photography skills.

The End.

Have you seen Jenna?

2009-08-24T13:30:00.000-07:00

Jeanna, are you there? Your catty sisters miss you and hope you are doing well. We understand that you are stressed and busy but come back to us as soon as you can.

Because we miss you so much, I have written you a little poem...

Dearest Jenna, you are so sweet

and about as cute as a birdies tweet!

Although you're super busy and have a lot of stress,

please know that we still think you're the best.

Congrats on getting into Lindenwood,

we always knew you could!

I hope you know how much we've missed you,

just thinking about it makes us boo hoo!

To close this out there's just one thing to say

I sure hope tonight you get a good lay!

Which Dress Should I Wear?

2009-08-23T07:49:00.000-07:00

Granted none of the pics highlight our little fashion show that took place Thursday evening. Nevertheless, we played dress up first thing because I was tired of everything in my closet and needed some different duds for the weekend. And whilst Faith and I shed our threads and bared our dimples, Jenn played Farmville.........or is it Farmtown? She does both, but apparently one is WAY better than the other. E-farming brings her a sense of pride and fulfillment because she is helping the fight against world hunger.

This is an experiment to see is you can garden in your nose. This way you will never be without fresh veggies.

Fricking adorable, totally organic and lovingly grown and harvested by Farmer Faith.

Looks like Faith may have some rabbit trouble in her little veggie patch.

See how the rabbit longingly watches me eat my carrot? Right about the time my highlights were ready to be rinsed the hare's fangs came out and she attacked me Monty Python style. There was blood everywhere.

Facebook It

2009-08-23T07:43:00.000-07:00

Yeah, that's right....you can now catch us at everyone's favorite social networking site......Facebook. Sidebar-Melissa we really need to get you in some group photos. Posting these pics without you just feels wrong.

Cheers!

You can always go.....Downtown

2009-08-17T17:30:00.000-07:00

Not really......more like South City. Melissa hosted the kitchen at her house this week with special guest Katie Miller of Scarlett Garnet Jewelry.
My photos have been turning out really crappy recently so please bear with me. Faith and Melissa both made delicious treats from recipes found here. And the wine wasn't too bad either.

Oliver Noodle Jackson

Later on Melissa gave us a tour of her home and then teamed up with Katie for a glass bead making tutorial. We settled down on her new living room furniture before calling it a night. We left kind of early because we had to see Katie on TV the next morning revamping jewelry. Way to go KT!

Movie Review: P.S., I Love You

2009-08-10T12:24:00.001-07:00

Last week was a quiet night in the kitchen-Jenn was in Florida getting run rash, Jenna was working her tail off, Melissa was entertaining an old friend and Faith and I watched P.S., I Love You. I don't know what it is about this film, but it makes me cry.....a lot.....and I don't really like that because I am not typically a crier.

The film is very sweet though and undeniably romantic, however, not so overdone that you want to vomit throughout the whole film. It even has its funnier bits to get you smiling amidst all the tears. Touting an all-star cast including Hilary Swank, Gerard Butler, Gina Gershon, Lisa Kudrow, Harry Connick, Jr. and Kathy Bates the acting is very good on most counts especially for the type of film that it is.

Now I know Gerard Butler is fantastically gorgeous and his arms are sooooooo dreamy, but I prefer him all naked and shiny in 300 better methinks (it's the beard). In this movie however, Jeffery Dean Morgan stole my heart with, of course, his arms and gleaming full-on smile.

Put that with the Irish accent and rugged laborer look and you have a formula for major swooning. Those deep brown eyes don't hurt either.

I hope the other kitchen members add to this because I think we have all seen it at this point.

Hutton's 27th Year on the Planet Earth

2009-08-02T11:15:00.001-07:00

This party started with six pounds of ground chuck, three packs of hot dogs, upgraded buns, pita and hummus, pasta salad, salad, cookie cake, one dozen cupcakes and all the fixings............Jenna tends to buy a lot of food. :)

Chicken and Lunchbox being cute...
The berfday boi...
Faith trying to get her mouth around a 1/2 pound meatwad...

Not a great pic, but worth it as Jenn debates ever brushing her teeth again...

It looks worse than it is....

Loki, the other birthday boy....although poor thing had to endure a rather embarrassing bowel malfunction in front of everyone. I haven't laughed that hard in a long time.

After many attempts at trying to take attractive pics together we finally made it work with a funny face. Those bags under my eyes aren't very funny. :)

Mellow Meeting

2009-07-24T19:47:00.000-07:00

Three members of the kitchen caused quite the ruckus on Wednesday and were subjected to punishment Thursday evening-a nite without Jenn. So the mood was a bit morose, however Melissa had just the trick to brighten our gathering. She fashioned her own set of fake wax fingernails with the remnants of a Gouda Babybel snack! I haven't had nails that nice since prom in high school.
Mostly we chilled and pampered my new pooch, Bella. She is the sweetest Shih Tsu you will ever meet. She didn't make a single move while I clipped her nails and Faith brushed her coat. Mel fell in love with her under-bite and gave her a thorough dental exam. I am pretty sure she is purebred Ewok. In other news, I have been tossing the idea around of something I could share/make for the group.......probably on a monthly basis. I think I have come up with something that is partial to me and perhaps a new experience for the other birds. If not, then just a nice thought to brighten their day. I am calling it 'OSP's Monthly Mix' because I am going to compile music for the girls and give them something new to listen to every month. They are probably making fun of me right now, but I don't care. And because I am such a nerd about Tori, I decided to get that out of the way first. I will post the track list after the gifts have been given. Good nite and good weekend.

Catty Community Outreach

2009-07-11T18:25:00.000-07:00

We took in a few strays this week and bestowed our love and undying (if not old-lady) wit upon the wayfaring adolescents. Let's hear it for Kora, Annie and Delphi!
Kora joined us from the Wilkes side of life.......decked out in hot pink and black, knee high socks and of course her mobile. She has a charming smile and seemed at ease amidst our craziness. But the texting doesn't stop there.........
In this corner, we have Annie! Woot! Annie is one of many Anne's in her family. I am pretty sure she thought we were lunatics, but I could see through her quiet demeanor. She is intelligent and sharp-tongued (i love it!) and did her best not to make too much fun of her sister.

Neither Delphi nor Faith made it into the photos this time (somehow), but both were present and a good time was had by all. We indulged in homemade pizza, destruction of youth and Finding Neverland (is that an indulgence?). Oh and quarter water.......pronounced "Quotah Watah."

Happy 4th of Jooly!

2009-07-04T08:30:00.000-07:00

Faith's little veggie patch is doing so well. And she started everything from seed! We're talking corn, tomatoes, carrots, asparagus, broccoli, lettuce, squash, zucchini, and very soon...pumpkins!!

She threw together some homemade salsa and it was really good for her first attempt without any recipe. We ate the mess out of it.

The weather was fantastic. Breezy, balmy, high seventies........We couldn't beat it. Although we did rock out to some Michael Jackson while roasting our butts off trying to cook our hot dogs.

Jenn, the food weirdo, prefers ketchup on her dog while Faith enjoys a mixture of both ketchup and mustard and I stay with the yellow line.

Sweet kisses for BarleyDoo who tried to drink our beers.

Enjoy a safe holiday!

Grapes with a Lemon Squeeze

2009-07-04T07:42:00.000-07:00

This what happens when Jenn insists on being cute all of the time....I subject her to a photo shoot. My husband says it looks like someone shat a person into a grape......not true, but hilarious. Anyway.......
This girl is very photogenic and made for a great subject.

I love that natural skin is starting to be accepted more. Her pale skin looks beautiful in the outdoor light.

Sorry fellas, she is spoken for. My brother happens to be the lucky gent. Yeah for him and Yeah for me.

Her feet are naturally pointed.........so cute!

Jenn the Grape

Made friends with an Ape

Outside of Calverton Park

Her lemon shoes

and Simian woos

ensued just before Dark.

Quick Note

2009-06-27T05:25:00.000-07:00

I am really sorry about all of the recent background changes. I am just not happy with the layouts offered by Blogger or anywhere else. If anyone would be willing to help me customize our site, I would greatly appreciate it.

30 Years and 1 Week

2009-06-27T04:46:00.001-07:00

Mmmm......yummy cheesecake pops...made graciously by Melissa.......wait, who is Melissa?.....only the newest member of the Catty Kitchen!.....what, what-raise the roof! Oh, and her dessert was off the chain. I am talking white, milk and dark chocolate coating.......some were orange cheesecake, some were just regulah-ass cheesecake........a few were sprinkled with toffee and others with, well...sprinkles

This is our beautiful new friend. Melissa Ann.....her name means bumblebee and she is as sweet as the honey she collects. I have actually known her for many years, but we are all very glad to welcome her to the Kitchen.

And the event's main attraction is the birthday girl......Faith Michelle! She is officially 30 and loving it. Nor does she look it.

We surprised her with sushi birthday cake from I Love Mr. Sushi-it was magnifique! Our wine supply was depleted by 7:30 and we had to make a run to the grocer to the tune of 'Single Ladies'. That's a hot track-I ain't mad at that.

We were a little nervous about her gift because we made most of it, but I think she really liked it. Inside her banana leaf basket was a fish bank, four homemade washcloths, a cross-eyed bird, food tents, a penis-y mushroom, post-its, gorgeous garden hat and crocheted cupcake.

I almost forgot...Jenn made her recycled coasters and coin purse from plastic grocery bags. Apparently we use about 1,000,000 bags a minute (that's one million folks) which is no good for our 'Mom'.

Happy Birthday Faith, the old fart! We love you!

Jenn Tries Sushi

2009-06-27T04:33:00.000-07:00

That's Jenn. And a caterpillar roll. There's eel in there. And after exorbitant amounts of peer pressure Jenn decided to make the plunge...

It didn't go so well.....

She didn't chuck it up, but we had a good laugh at her expense. I think there was too much texture for her to enjoy it but I thought the sushi was great! Way to be bold my young sushi padawan.

In honor of my birthday I thought I would do a little dance!

2009-06-23T15:45:00.000-07:00

Elevated Testosterone Levels

2009-06-20T04:35:00.000-07:00

Alright-this post is rot with photos Jenn took while messing with my camera unbeknown to me. So to punish her, everyone must see them...........Muah ha ha ha ha ha!

For whatever reason the optics in this house seem to multiply when placed on top of the commode.

This is a shamrock........and Jenn's first attempt at not killing all of the green in her life.

What a dork!

Here I am modeling the newest lap blanket trend. It also works well as a shawl.

Gomorrah is finally taking visitors...

My brother is a ghost! I had no idea...........BOO!

Jenn and Jay will be heading this way come August.

This is freaking adorable! Justin made curry, Jenn and I talked crafts and Faith's birthday party, I drank too much beer and had a great time all around.

Somene Turned 30........

2009-06-17T11:51:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Faith Contessa LaBamba! Sorry you can't be here today, but we hope you are enjoying yourself. See you soon.

Love,

The Catty Kitchen

Here I am!

2009-06-14T09:11:00.000-07:00

I've kind of been slacking on the Catty Kitchen, minus a few beautiful pictures added by the other girls. But I've been very busy, and mostly internetless. So, now there is no excuse! Jennifer is officially blogging on the Catty Kitchen again!
I really just wanted to give you guys a heads up of the awesomeness to follow. Right now I have Saturday morning cartoons to watch (yes, I realize it's Sunday morning, but a girl can pretend, can't she?).

2009-06-13T07:14:00.000-07:00

Pedis and Wine and Justin, oh my!

2009-06-12T04:57:00.000-07:00

Justin has been dying to get into our club for sometime now. He sort of whines like a cat when Jenn has to leave the house on Thursdays, but not this week. He made it over and quickly grabbed 'People' magazine for some 'good' reading. I think he may have some gender identity issues.

What is Faith trying to hide from the camera? Obviously not those ghostly legs...

Ah! That explains her expression. Her toes needs some love from our resident pedicurist-Me.

And in spite of an inconvenient migraine, Jenn was able to join us. Poor thing. Playing with her hair ought to do the trick.

An In-Law Affair

2009-06-09T04:51:00.001-07:00

You heard me...I cheated on the 'kitchen'. I'm not proud of it. Cheating is never acceptable, but my new loves just provide me with so much more..........
......then again, maybe they just haven't been exposed to my shit long enough.

Notes: Saturday evening with my sister-in-laws and without kids. Near Bliss!

Overboard in O'Fallon

2009-06-05T06:20:00.000-07:00

Meet Loki......He is Jenna's sweet doxie mix rescue dog with lots of personality and infamous 'juices'. He enjoys terrorizing baby birds, gigantic dog bones and baths several times a week. His mom is notorious for going overboard........for example on his doggie chews.......
That thing is as long as my arm! She also made a fruit salad to feed an entire Southern Family reunion. I was so full from her enormous taco salad thing (delicious by the way) that I never quite made room for the fruit salad. I probably should have offered to take some home because I have no idea how her and Micah will finish it before it goes bad.

Faith looks rather subdued here, but I can understand why...I kept picking fights with her and she got bit by a vampire.

Luckily, I don't think they got her enough to turn her, although her teeth were looking rather sharp at night's end. Time to make some silver bullets....just in case.

Wait I think I found the actual culprit of Faith's lacerations....but she doesn't look capable of inflicting such pain. Meet Peanut Butter Vess Root Beer Pfeifer-Kuhn. Jenn and Jay's new cat who kind of freaked out when she met Loki and insisted on tearing Faith to shreds, but I am not sure J-fer did not put her new feline companion up to it.

Catty Salon

2009-05-30T05:15:00.000-07:00

Haircuts and color on the cheap? Ok. Welcome to the Catty Kitchen Salon. Sweeney Todd was busy so we settled for Cara (throw your hands up at me!).

Faith was in desperate need of some color. That coppery red colors that happens when hair dye fades was starting to mask the grays. LOL! The color turned out a silky walnut shade. It is lovely, although she kind of feels like a goth kid. She has always wanted to scream in a goth band though. Maybe she is on step closer to her calling.

Fricking gorgeous! I tell you what...I think I am ready for some fat or ugly friends. Faith and Jenn are starting to make me look bad what with all their pretty hair and stuff. I mean just look at me...

I know...Sometimes you just gotta dance.......too much booty in da pants!
Do you see that crazed look in Cara's eyes? No wonder Jenn is scared. No need for worried though. This is how she turned out...

Beautiful..........Uh-oh, we forgot to shave our wild beast. Do you think Cara will come back to give him a shave and a haircut? I think he knows where his two bits are.

Ummmm........I'm the tough one........??

2009-05-25T20:29:00.000-07:00

So I think I am doing this blog correctly. It took me forever to figure out where to go on our site to write an actual blog....I've never blogged before, so this is my first! If I'm not doing this correctly, then someone is going to get a message from me! Ha ha...This blog from me is well overdue, I do believe the other members of the Catty Kitchen were getting "Caddy" that I hadn't blogged yet. Get it-Caddy? Ha ha...ok yeah that was dumb. I'm not quite as funny as Octavia, that can put quite a bit of pressure on a girl when you're trying to find something interesting to blog about for others to read! Any-hoo...My birthday tea party was quite a blast. I honestly don't think anyone has ever done anything so nice for me! I walked in and was graced with a bouquet of beautiful purple flowers (that I learned later were chives!), we had a tea party....with long island ice tea, (which whoever thought of the idea of a tea party, with long island tea, that was a very clever idea!), I got the best gifts ever! I got a popcorn maker with all the fixings, some scrap booking stuff, a really cute little green vase that you attach to like a wall, window or mirror, and an awesome bowl! The story behind the popcorn maker...a couple months ago we had girls night at Octavia's and she started making something on the stove in a pot, and I went in there to watch, and it was popcorn! I thought it was the coolest thing. For those of you that don't' know, I'm a bit illiterate in the kitchen, but I am gradually learning! Which the whole idea of getting me a popcorn maker was really thoughtful too!!! After we at some awesome panini's, salad, and a whole plate of tomatoes, we relaxed with girl talk and the season finale of The Office! It twas the perfect night! Well hopefully this is the first of many more blogs to come-bet your gonna be waiting on the edge of your seat in anticipation for my next one!
Guess you could say I just lost my blog virginity! Was it as good for you as it was for me?

Swirl, Tap, Blog

2009-05-20T18:31:00.000-07:00

Sunday evening was the night of our highly anticipated after hours B.E. party. If you aren't hip to mineral makeup yet check out Bare Escentuals here. I, unfortunately, did not make it due to mommy obligations. Not cool, but it happens.

Jennifer also jumped on the cosmetics case and started her own mineral journey. For those of you that don't know, Jennifer has some of the most beautiful skin I have ever seen and really doesn't need the makeup, but we are very glad to have her aboard. Now at least she will know what we are talking about when we name all those crazy eyeshadows.
Speaking of shadows, I have a theory about B.E. eye makeup. It goes something like this: If you can make a sentence or phrase (that makes relative sense) out of the names of two or three shadows, it will probably be a good combo (within reason people). For example you will see above (kind of) the "Queen Phyllis-Noble-Bubbly" combo. And I would imagine her bubbly is rather noble-she is a queen after all.

Here's what you do: Buff a base with "Queen Phyllis" from lid to eyebrow. Sweep 'Noble' into the crease and blend 'Bubbly' onto the lid. Voila! I did not include the eyeliner in the theory, but here I am wearing 'Fashionista' and two coats of soft black mascara.

Please ignore the wrinkles and what needs to be tweezed.

A Birthday Story

2009-05-16T04:17:00.000-07:00

Would you like some tea? From Long Island? Coming right up!
How about a Long Island Iced Tea party? Dainty little Jenna is our guest of honor.
Hopefully she didn't inhale any bugs...
Now she can make stove top popcorn whenever she wants...........try to not to make too much at once dear. You have a knack for that.
Where did she learn how to make 'Idea Corn'? That is my favorite popcorn....uh-oh, where did it go?
After an evangelical rendition of 'Happy Birthday' we watched The Office and tried not to pass out in our drunken yet charming stupor.
We hope you have a great birthday Jenna!

With all our love,
The Catty Kitchen

Buttons and Balled Up Yarn

2009-05-13T04:50:00.000-07:00

Howdy! Nothing super-interesting going on, but I have found that we (I) am a bit backlogged on pics and posts. Who knew blogging would be such a time consuming endeavor. I may need to get in touch with a time vampire about this.
Yarn...........lovely, rewound yarn.......wait! and it's in an adorable basket? That sure will look great in someone's new home. Hopefully, we will start to see some creations make it out from the bottom of this overflowing basket. I know I am 'making the face'.
Faith and her mom have been bonding which has done wonders for our button collection. This is only a handful of the vintage buttons Faith recently inherited. I also hope to see some creativity come from her camp too. Isn't she working on some new throw pillows? I am sure our 8 followers would love to see them.

Happy Wednesday!

OP

It's Your Berfday...Get Bizzee

2009-05-11T18:22:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Jenna!

We have some surprises in store for you. We can't wait to see you Thursday for a popping good time!

What a bunch of dumb pictures! I mean dumb tarts, um........

2009-05-06T16:36:00.000-07:00

Is it just me or should we start every new post with a fabulous picture of Jennifer? I mean, she just kind of draws you in with her charisma and flyaway hair. Is she singing 'Total Eclipse of the Heart'?
Luckily for Jenn, her driving companions were much cuter. (Yeah that's right! I am calling you out!) There is a weird eye in this picture with me. It must have something to do with my allergies.
For us three, this past Saturday marked our first ever outing together, which is shameful considering how long we have been friends.

Whilst there are no pictures to document the beginning of the day's adventures I will bring you up to speed. The Ferguson Farmer's Market opened this weekend and was quite disappointing, but let's give it some time to be fair. We (including Jenna, Hooray!) met at Faith's for road beers and reusable grocery totes then made our way into Fergloch. Jenna and I chatted plants while the other two were having their way with some pork sausage. Breakfast at the Corner Coffee House-(sidebar) Some old man in a crappy blue sweater with embroidered golfers on it decided to razz the catty bitches about the size of our purses. Needless to say, the joke could have been funnier. We headed to an estate sale and picked up some old books and a couple of cabinets for my craft studio. And break...........

Jenna has other plans-The girls take me on my maiden voyage to Hobby Lobby, where I bought some fancy yarn and paper. Blood sugar low-tummies a'grumbling-head over to Chevy's-make a grand entrance (it should have been in slow motion) and are greeted by two over-excited hostesses (it is us after all). We are supposedly seated in the fun section and what is more fun than glasses on that lady behind me?
And the thing is, they were brand new! I really hope that frame style does not make a comeback.

Catch ya later team!

OP

Girls' Night Gone Awry

2009-05-01T04:30:00.000-07:00

Drugs are bad, mm-kay.

thanks, g-ma!

2009-04-29T19:15:00.000-07:00

So, I was packing all my schtuff up and found this little treasure I told Octavia I would show her years ago.

Granma made this for me forever ago, and it never once crossed my mind when I started crocheting different creatures. His name is Tippy, named after her dog when I was little, and he is upwards of twenty years old. Puppy years...old as dirt. Given his age, I think he looks great. I have heard a lot that I look very much like my grandmother, so realizing that she had the creative crochet streak made the warm fuzzy spot I keep just for her grow a little bit bigger, as well as my itchin' for some stitchin'!...that was the lamest thing in the world....it's staying.

In a couple of weeks, I will giving him a permanant spot in my crafting area. He will be available for interviewing at that point.

*Just for future reference, Octavia and Faith get very angry when there are too many spaces throughout the posts.*

My Savory Tuna

2009-04-28T17:08:00.000-07:00

Recipe for low-fat tuna salad sandwich:

1 pouch tuna in water, flaked

1 T sunflower seeds

1/4 to 1/2 cup salsa

pepper to taste

1 dash of dill

1 T french fried onions (optional)

4 slice whole grain bread (or whole grain vehicle of your choosing)

Toast bread slices. Mix tuna, sunflower seeds, salsa, pepper, dill and french fried onions in small bowl. When toast is done top with half the mixture and share the rest with someone else. Or if you are feeling crazy eat it all. It is very filling, a little high on sodium content, low fat and very tasty.

Here are some other alternatives to liven up your tuna sandwich. Mix and match at your own discretion.

Apples, chunked (I prefer Golden Delicious or Granny Smith), shredded Colby cheese, mustard in lieu of salsa or mayo, dill pickles diced, red onion diced, black beans, hot sauce or cayenne pepper, fat free refried beans, tomato, carrot shreds

Let us know what you mix up!

tampboo?

2009-04-28T13:57:00.000-07:00

Well, we’re very close to the end of another great poll here in the Catty Kitchen. I was curious, given the results, could you use a bamboo cotton wash cloth as a super tampon? Sure, it’s not exactly practical, but desperate times call for desperate alternatives.

Speaking of things coming to an end, I realized today that I have one test and one final in each of my classes and then I’m free for the summer! You know what that means!!!

Crochet City!

I’m not actually going to Crochet City, that’s just a city I made up. But! I am going to get back in the swing of things. I have a lot of projects to pick back up and lots more to start.

Let’s make a list!!!!!!!!!

My afghan
My nieces’ fish blanket
A colorful creature yet to take shape
Maaayyyybe figure out Jabba
A creature for my dad
Neckwarmers
Space Robot
“Christmas” tree ornaments
I still need ideas for my nice alpaca yarn from my boy.
And hopefully one of these...

I don’t know if I’ll ever find something I find acceptable for the yarn in #9, I’m too much of a perfectionist when it comes to stuff like that.

As 90% of the people who read this already know, I will be moving very soon. I plan on having a very special plan for my crochet projects that will probably include a very cute basket for all my yarn. I’m really excited about my new setup and will hopefully be able to get a lot done before the fall semester.

And done.

Purse Off Dance Off

2009-04-24T06:25:00.000-07:00

This week was a very different girls night. This week, there were about 20 more people in attendance and a ton of gorgeous "designer" hand bags, sun glasses, wallets, clutches...! I'd say the evening went very well.

Faith found a few that she liked.

All of Jennifer couldn't make it, but we were blessed with just her head. It was really weird at first, but J-head fit right in. Also shown in this picture is Tim the Terrible. He was a good sport and even helped the ladies decide on their goods.

J-head was in charge of taking pictures but as she didn't have hands, you can see where this would be challenging. As a results we ended up with some rather blurry photos.

Toward the end of the evening Jess noticed the dry-erase frame. She loved it so much it was hard for her to contain her excitement.

Thanks to everyone who came, it was a fantastic evening but there was one thing missing...Jenna. She was stuck at work and was not able to join us. We'll see you soon Jenna. :) xoxo

A Very Catty Birthday

2009-04-21T19:04:00.001-07:00

You know that if you hear LeAnn Rimes (not to mention us) belting out a tune from Coyote Ugly there is a good chance a fair amount of wine has been consumed. This was certainly the case last Thursday. We gathered in the "Kitchen" to celebrate my upcoming birthday and took on a couple of 'reds' and I think maybe a 'white' in the process. It was a hoot!

We gorged ourselves on pita chips and garlic tzatziki prior to Jenna's arrival and engaged in a rousing game of Clue. That didn't go very well because no one could really remember how to play.

And so of course, Jenna showed up cuter than the rest of us (at my birthday celebration mind you) as usual. This is her 'dressed down'. She strolled up in heels and a very slimming pencil skirt. I wonder if her husband knew she was dressed like that...

The ladies treated me well as expected. Faith made delightful (and very lightly mayo-d) chicken salad sandwiches. They bought me a new set of wonderfully round and large wine glasses (complete with two bottles of wine). We had a picnic on Faith's lawn while I tended the fire. My brother showed up later to let me take an impromptu birthday scooter ride-exhilarating! Last but not least the girls slaved over the artwork for my cake which happened to be my 'Zeebah Neighbah' (see pic at top of post). It was really great work and because they missed my facial expression the first time, we had to redo the shot and this is what I gave them...

Happy Birthday to me!!!

pics from OP's bday (draft)

2009-04-19T17:17:00.000-07:00

Alright, everyone, settle down. No, we did not force Octavia to write her own birthday blog. I had one drafted with Faith's pictures and I happened to be very busy at work and unable to perfect it.

So, here it is, in all it's unedited glory, the story of Octavia's girls night part 2.

I think it's only appropriate that the story of Octavia's girls night be told in reverse because that's the way the pictures loaded, and I don't have time to figure out how to switch them without cutting and pasting the html. Plus, the Catty Kitchen girls are a little backwards from time to time.

SO! The night ended with...well, I can't remember much of the end of the night because there was a lot of wine throughout the entire evening. But I do know that we played the piano and I was able to show off my mediocre skills to the girls (I don't usually play for people).

I do remember the amazing cake experience! Octavia is getting old, so we only put 8 candles on the cake to give her aging lungs a rest. She handled them like a champ.

Octavia was very grateful for the absolutely perfect cake presented to her for her 28th birthday.

Before cake, we had a semi-toasty fire in Faith's backyard. As previously stated, there was wine, some old-school love mixes, fire-pokers, and a lot of really great karoke. Octavia showed off her fire skills and I think she accused us of being ungrateful, which is completely untrue. Aside from a brief Barley incident, the fire and the fire maintainer were fully functional.

I don't remember exactly what this look from Faith was about, but I do remember laughing histerically right before and right after it was taken.

As most people know, combining good friends, campfires, and booze often, if not always, leads to some very serious heart-to-hearts. This one in particular most likely involves Vantage talk. I remember asking for this one to be deleted...I guess she didn't hear me over the frumpy.

I think we've made it a habit to take a few of these everytime all four of us are together. I'm pretty sure this is the best one yet. Look how cute we are!

Ahhh, I forgot about the dancing. Faith and I are excellent dancers. One of our gifts to the birthday girl was a dance party by firelight.

Mid-campfire, we were rudely interuppted by the boy. He gave Octavia her a birthday scooter ride around C-Park. What a great brother! Afterwards, I proved that all pictures are 100% cuter with me in them.

The next couple pictures are from girls night preparation. I have to hand it to myself, the cake looks great. I know I'm talented, but I had no idea I had this in me. The tulips behind are from Faith's garden and on the night of the celebration, they looked A-MAZE-ING (the word Tulipic came to mind, but I don't think it's a real word). They were gigantic and really complimented the cake.

As previously stated, I was really impressed and excited about the cake.

So, overall the night was a success. It was so great to celebrate our friend with such a nice evening and so much wine.

Happy Birthday Month Octavia!

2009-04-14T06:10:00.000-07:00

Bunny Sock Hop

2009-04-10T13:17:00.000-07:00

For those of you looking for any last minute Easter ideas check this out. My cousin sent this to me from Good Housekeeping magazine (thank you Rebecca). The best part is you need very few craft skills to make the rascally rabbits!

To craft these cottontails, gather patterned single socks, a needle, thread, felt, polyester stuffing (from a fabric store), and scissors. Turn sock inside out; snip down the middle of the toe; stitch each "ear" closed. Flip sock right-side out; stuff; sew closed (you can also knot the ears, as on our blue bunny). Add features in felt.

Simple as 1-2-3. Enjoy and Happy Easter!

Catty pizza, comin' up!

2009-04-10T05:57:00.000-07:00

This week was filled with pizza, wine, frothing, all the other catty things we do and a side of The Office. Megan was our guest this week. She brought tasty rice krispie treats. However, we ate them all before we were able to take a photo.

We'll start with the pizza. Everyone made their own pies and it seemed to work out pretty well. In this photo you will see Princess OP displaying her prize winning pie.

After pizza and wine, came the coffee and frothing. I think we'll all agree the frothing was the best part. (in this photo - please note the fancy pink tiny nails!)

These two love man froth!

We were also visited by a strange green ass. I had no choice but to grab it. That's just how we roll in the Catty Kitchen, we grab any and all green asses.

This week was dedicated to Jenna. She was unable to join us and we missed her terribly. We'll see you next week Jenna! Be sure the bring the fire in your eyes that we love so much.
Next week is OP's special birthday girls night. We have all kinds of surprises up our sleeves for that. Stay tuned!