Live Young....Laugh Hard

2011-05-31T10:11:00.001-04:00

Yes, this is late but still.... so beautiful. Hope everyone had a wonderful Memorial weekend.

Maeci & Gracie's Give Back a Wish 1st Annual Softball Tournament

2011-05-26T23:09:00.002-04:00

Hi all! Long time no speak. Just wanted to update my blog on our latest project. We are now Wish Granters! We met a family, The Bennett's (Chris, Stephanie & Gracie) at the hospital during Maeci's chemo treatments who ended up going on our Wish trip with us last November. We had an fabulous time! I have never experienced a vacation like that EVER! The girls were spoiled rotten (which they totally deserved) and we, the parents even got special treatment. In our minds, was also well deserved.

Make-a-Wish is an amazing organization that grants the wishes of children with life threatening diseases. Our families have decided that God put us together for many reasons but the main reason is to GIVE BACK and to give hope and inspiration to others who are fighting.

We had our first fundraiser on May 6th and it was a huge success. We sponsored a 4 yr old little girl, Charla, with heart failure. We ended up with 24 teams! We also had a Silent Auction with loads of great items! We GRANTED CHARLA'S WISH with the help of many giving people!

We are now working on granting Wish #2.

Granting a wish is an experience that we will never forget and we want to continue doing. We thank God for giving us this opportunity and for blessing us with new friends.

Keli

2011-05-07T14:05:00.001-04:00

Maeci & Dr. Vic. Worlds Best Oncologist!!

2011-05-07T14:03:00.001-04:00

Maeci and Jake at the Riley Childrens Hospital Cancer Prom. What a wonderful event! Lots of smiles and no worries of cancer for 3 hours!

Creepy...

2011-03-08T13:03:00.002-05:00

The balloon baby appears to be up to something. Hmmmmmm.....

2011-03-07T14:07:00.001-05:00

Sassy! Moo's hair is growing so fast! I love love it!

When you are having a bad hair day,

be thankful you have hair.

This girl has taught me so much!

2011-03-03T23:27:00.000-05:00

Hi all! Our family and The Bennetts are hosting the "Maeci & Gracie's Give Back a Wish 1st Annual Softball Tournament on May 14, 2011. We were blessed with having our daughters wishes granted and we were able to travel to Disney World together! Make-a-Wish is an amazing organization and we want to grant the wish of another very deserving child with a life threatening disease. We would love for you to help us make this happen! I know alot of you do not live here in Indiana BUT there are other ways to help besides playing in the tournament or even attending.

1. "Wish" necklaces for sale.
2. You can make a donation at any Huntington Bank to the "Maeci & Gracie Give Back A Wish" account.
3. Pray that we are able to raise $6000 which is what it takes to grant one wish.
Please check out our website. You can read Maeci's and Gracie's stories, see the necklaces and read about our fund-raiser.

http://www.maeciandgracie.com/

Thank you all so so much for reading, browsing our site and most of all for praying for our girls!

Keli

Maeci & Gracie Give Back

2011-02-01T23:47:00.003-05:00

Hi all! I'm sitting here in the middle of an ice storm and my long lost blog popped into my head. And I have a new website to promote and what better place to promote it! http://www.maeciandgracie.com/ So, here I am hoping my long lost followers will see this and run over to see what I've been up too. It's been a crazy Summer and Fall!
Some of you know, some of you don't, that Maeci was diagnosed with Hodgkins Lymphoma in April 2010. We met Gracie during chemo treatments. Please take a moment and read their stories. We would really appreciate it.

Hope all you are doing fabulous and are having a great start to 2011!

Hugs!

Maeci Moo & Crew - Help Support The Luekemia & Lymphoma Society

2010-10-11T11:51:00.000-04:00

My family and I (Jay, Jacob and Maeci) will be participating in The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s (LLS) Light The Night Walk at Victory Field, October 16, 2010, and we would like to ask for your support.
As you may know, our daughter Maeci was diagnosed with Hodgkin's Lymphoma on April 19, 2010. While this was a complete shock, her Faith in God brought her through this. She endured many scary days and many overnight stays at Riley Hospital for Children but she continued to smile and believe. She told me in the very beginning that God would take care of her and "God's Got It" became our family motto. With Gods healing touch, Maeci's scans were clear on August 2nd, she had a complete response to chemo according to her Oncologist. We are now finishing up the last of her treatment plan and they will continue to monitor her. Maeci is truly a blessing to our family and has touched and inspired the lives of others with her smiling face!

Light The Night is a nationwide evening walk that raises funds for cutting-edge cancer research and innovative programs for patients and their families. The LLS mission is: Cure leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin’s disease and myeloma, and improve the quality of life of patients and their families.

It’s a special night, celebrating and commemorating lives touched by cancer. Each Walker who raises $100 or more becomes a Champion For Cures and gets to carry a special illuminated balloon – white for survivors, red for supporters and gold for those who have lost a loved one to blood cancer. Light The Night is a magical event that someday will ensure that blood cancers are eliminated.

Your help will make a difference! Please consider joining my team and walking with Maeci and/or making a donation to help me become a Champion For Cures. I will also be placing an order for t-shirts which will say "Maeci Moo & Crew" for $10.00 each. Please let me know soon if you want a t-shirt. I will be placing the order soon. (You do not have to order a t-shirt to be on my team)

To join me in the Walk or to donate on-line, visit http://pages.lightthenight.org/in/Indianap10/KYoung .

Here are some facts about the upcoming Walk:

When: October 16, 2010

Where: Victory Field, Indianapolis, IN

Distance: 2 Miles

Time: Check-in 5:00 pm

Opening Ceremony and Walk Start Time 7:00 pm

Thank you for your support in the fight against blood cancer.

Thank you,

Jay, Keli, Jake and Maeci

Daddy/Daughter Dance

2010-02-23T07:53:00.001-05:00

The day arrived....the Daddy/Daughter Dance....finally! How cute is she? She definitely belongs to me...lover of gloss and handbags.

And after watching her put on that gloss, I think we may be in trouble....just say'n.

Isn't this pretty?

2010-02-17T22:33:00.000-05:00

This is what happens when you clip your dogs nails, hold her, your husband comes through the front door, dog doesn't recognize him and goes nuts! OUCH!!!

Why and How???

2010-02-07T08:54:00.000-05:00

Ok....I'm tired of deleting unwanted ANONYMOUS comments! What's going on? Am I they only one being stalked by these peeps?

How do I make it stop? Anyone???

It's not like I blog much anymore but someone please tell me how to stop the madness!

Keli

I think someone needs a hug...

2010-01-27T09:29:00.000-05:00

Keli

Game Night

2010-01-24T00:17:00.000-05:00

Seriously. There is nothing better than hanging out with family and friends. We were invited to game night with friends from church. We all brought snacks and our kids. Notice I said snacks first...I love me some snacks. We had the normal introductions and then we filled our plates. MMMMMMMM! Someone made spinach dip w/ Hawaiian bread, cheese dip, Robert Redford brownies, veggies/dip, fruit, peach pie, etc. I love snack foods. I think I tasted a little of each. Don't judge.

Then we moved on. Karoke with the kids. Do you know how cute it is to hear little ones sing The B I B L E? And Jesus Loves Me? Of course everyone was watching smiling, laughing......Me? I had tears in my eyes. I'm such a cry baby. When things are cute, funny, precious and involve little ones, I boohoo. I can't help it. So darn cute!

Then we broke up in teams and played Pictionary. Fun fun game!! We involved the kids and had a blast! Cracks me up to see what people draw for their word! hahahaha!

Kids played Twister and then we moved on to a game called Spoons. Ever played it? I had not. You need spoons and a deck of cards. Very easy to learn but can be very violent! People really want a spoon! My Dad even snatched one from a small child! And he wasn't giving it up. LOL! Bummed that I forget my camera!

We had a great night. I wasn't feeling that great when we headed over but laughter really is the best medicine.

Thank God for family and friends. Good times!

I hope all of you are having a great weekend so far!

Keli

A Vase.

2010-01-22T21:55:00.000-05:00

Hello Peeps!

Even if yall have done this forty eleven times, do NOT burst my creative bubble. Are we clear on this?

I had a vase to wrap. Wanted a cool, different look. You know, not the ol' standby bag. So? Here it is.

The Masterpiece. WAH LAH!

Amazing what a little tissue paper and a strip of wrapping paper can do.

Happy weekend!

Keli

2010 Mommytography 365 Project

2010-01-17T17:55:00.002-05:00

I've decided to join the Mommytogrpahy 2010 Mommytography 365 Project! For this year long project I will be posting 7 image a week on Sundays, to get me out shooting, using my camera and learning new things with it daily. Anyone interested in photography can join, no need to be a Mommytographer. We have teens to adults, male and female, as well as people from all over the world. Come join the fun! So...today is Sunday. I will post 7 of my most recent photos. Hope you enjoy!

This is Maeci up to bat.

First session of softball EVER. She loved it.

Took this shot while we were in Chicago at Oz Park.

Maeci's Mysterious Look. HaHa.

Sister of one of Maeci's friends. She's a doll.

Snake. Nuff said.

Softball

The Red Shoes in Oz Park in Chicago.

I hope everyone had a wonderful weekend!

Keli

Parenting

2010-01-14T23:39:00.003-05:00

I've been thinking about so many things lately. Does anyone else stress and worry about the path their kids will choose? Do you worry that you made mistakes in how you've raised them? Do you pray that things that you have said to them were the right things?

As most of you know I have a 10 yr old and a almost 19 yr old. I am so very thankful for my kids. I can't imagine life without them but whew....there have been some trying times. How do you do it?? I'm going through normal trials, I'm sure. Maeci (10) is a fun, caring mostly quiet girl. Most of my time is spent with her laughing. She gets A's and B's, never gets in trouble, worries herself sick if she thinks she's not going to get a B or above, etc. But dang the girl is MOODY!

My biggest test right now? Jake.

Jake? Almost 19? Did you know he's an adult? At least that's what he tells us. He's a great kid. Very moody, comes with the age. Loves joking around, has lots of friends, a girlfriend, a job, etc. Jake graduated in May of 09. He made the decision not to go to college. I would have preferred college for him but it was not my decision to make. He has worked since he was 15, which I'm so very proud of him for. BUT (this may just be me), when you make the decision to not go to college after graduation, LIFE has begun. Right? You need to get serious and pay your own bills. Don't get me wrong, I know how exciting it is to graduate and be FREE of the responsibilities of school. Been there done that. But play time stops at some point and you have to become responsible.

We gave him the talk about finding a full time job, putting some thought into your life, your career. So, time has gone by, he's looked for full time work periodically...nothing. We told him he should be looking daily and not just at the places you think you want to work. He rarely asks for money, buys his own clothes, gas, etc. He just doesn't seem to get the importance of applying to jobs every single day. It's frustrating, stressfull, worrying. We've talked until we are blue in the face about the importance of being RESPONSIBLE. I will confess, I am a ~~little~~ lienient, he's my baby. But it's gone on long enough and I have to get tough. I'm not sure that's possible. I get scared when I think of him out there on his own, without me, all by himself, alone. Silly?

He has wanted to be a Fireman for a very long time and I'm good with that. He has a plan! His CPR class is February 9th and EMS training starts February 16th. It's all in motion! Then he will take a Paramedic course. YES!!! He will be able to start applying at fire departments when he turns 21.

But you know what is so so so frustrating? Me: "Jake, are you excited about getting your classes started?" Jake: "No."

Sigh......

Why is parenting so hard? Why didn't someone warn me? I pray alot and I know God will help us through this.

He's just like me when I was 18. Then End.

P.S. If you are still with me, suggestions welcome.

SSSSSSSSSSS.....

2010-01-13T21:49:00.003-05:00

Just wanted to share what I think is a cool shot, even though I H.A.T.E. snakes. I took this at the Indianapolis Zoo.

Hope your Wednesday was great!

I Really Want to Win This!!!

2009-12-09T21:28:00.000-05:00

Ok, so I entered this contest and one of the ways to get another entry was to blog about it. So here I am blogging about it. I really really want to win this very cool touch screen computer! Who wouldn't? So, I'm sharing the fun! Go, hurry, run and enter for yourself. But if you win, will you please share???? Please?

Click here to enter!

So proud!

2009-11-13T20:25:00.000-05:00

Look what my girl brought home today! I'm am so proud of her! She loves 4th grade. Along with that certificate, she brought home a Perfect Attendance certificate, a Math Fact Mastery Goal Award and a report card with A's and only 2 B's! She rocks!!!

New Contest from Scentsy! MMMMMMMM!

2009-11-06T14:18:00.002-05:00

Hi! Here's a new giveaway for you to enter! Click on Amy's name and enter this smelly giveaway! Have you tried Scentsy?? If not, you have too! Go now! Run! Hurry! Are you there yet?????

New Moon Contest!

2009-11-03T06:23:00.000-05:00

My friend Kristen is having a contest! She makes amazing, beautiful, unique, custom sterling silver jewelry! I had an E-Party for her and it was a huge success! I had a custom piece made for my 20th Anniversary and I get loads of compliments on it!

Anyhoo, Kristen is having a contest! If you are a Twilight fan, like me, you will want to enter this contest to win a custom necklace with the words "Betcha can't read my mind". That was the one thing Edward couldn't do, read Bella's mind and it drove him crazy. So, head over to Kristen's blog and read the rules and enter to win! Click on Kristen's name anywhere in this post to see her website. Oh and don't forget to check out her Etsy shop!

Squirrely Business

2009-10-21T19:21:00.000-04:00

This is my brother-n-law, Mark. He is retired. Nuff said.

To Cool To Do Drugs

2009-10-20T13:09:00.001-04:00

Its To Cool To Do Drugs Day at school! I'm thinkin' she looks pretty darn cool!

My Creation

2009-10-04T17:59:00.000-04:00

This was my creation for our table (My husband, Jay, has a painting business) at the church bazaar. What do you think?

In my opinion, it was hip, cool, creative, artistic, you know, FABULOUS. Jay's thoughts.....GIRLY. Men....they have no clue.

A Cow and a Pastor

2009-10-04T17:48:00.001-04:00

Yesterday was the Crossroads Church Tradeshow and Bazaar. There were over 40 vendors and lots of people in and out all day!
Even the Chick-fil-A cow showed up and brought sandwiches! I asked our Paster to MOOOOOOVE over so I could get a picture of both of them.

I crack myself up! (I know you're laughing.....)

Colour My World

2009-10-01T12:13:00.001-04:00

Look what I received in the mail yesterday for my anniversary!

I absolutely ♥ it!!! Let me tell you a little about why it says what it says....

When Jay and I were dating, long, long ago, we attended MANY Chicago concerts. They are still our favorite even today. Wonderful music and lyrics! One of our very favorite songs is Colour My World.

Simple Unique Meaningful

(maybe I will have her make a necklace with those words! : )

Don't any of you take my idea first! I mean it!

So thank you Kristen for making this necklace for us - WE (I get to wear it) love it!

If you are interested in Kristen's beautiful work, you can find her here....@ www.klacustomcreations.etsy.com & you can follow her blog here La Dolce Vita.

Today is the day.....

2009-09-30T17:17:00.000-04:00

Today is the day that I married my sweetheart, Jay, 20 years ago! I look back over the years and I am truly blessed. Jay is a wonderful husband, father, friend, hard worker and he has loved and provided for us for 20 years!

Happy Anniversary! I love you!!

Please read, you will be glad you did!

2009-09-29T13:35:00.005-04:00

Just entered an awesome giveaway for my friend Amy!

Please click on her name, take the time to read about her personal battle with cancer and her son Philip's medical battle. Amy is an amazing woman, wife, mom and friend & Philip is one COURAGEOUS young man! Amy is an inspiration to me and I know once you read her story, she will be an inspiration to you too.

Amy also has a fundraiser running right now for her son Philip...very cool t-shirts! (short and long sleeved)

For more info or to order a t-shirt click on Amy's name or you can order from my sister's blog here http://whileiamwaiting423.blogspot.com/2009/09/fantastic-giveaway-and-fundraiser-to.html. Half of the proceeds go straight to Amy for Phillip's medical needs!!! What an amazing friend Lisa, owner of Live Life Solid is!

Please pray for Amy, Philip and their family and consider helping Amy raise the funds to help with their medical needs.

God is good and He will get them through this battle!

Sale!!! Sale!!! Sale!!!

2009-09-28T15:58:00.006-04:00

This is what the parking lot looked like when my girlfriend Nicole and I decided to leave Kohl's. Shopping problem?

I think so.

Friends Without Faces

2009-09-28T12:08:00.002-04:00

This is to all the friends I have made through

Blogging, Tweeting, Facebooking,
Texting, IM'ing, Blackberry Messenging!

I have met a few of you, would love
to meet the others but so enjoy our
time spent online! I've come to love our

friendships and so glad I have each
and every one of you!

Friends Without Faces

We sit and we type and we stare at our screens,
We can't help but wonder what all of this means.
With mouse in hand ...we roam through this maze,
On an infinite search...lost in a daze.

We chat with each other, we type all our woes
At times we'll band together to gang up on our foes.
We wait for somebody, to type out our name
We want recognition, but it is always the same.

Soon friendships are formed - but - why we don't know,
But some of these friendships, will flourish and grow.
We give kisses and hugs, and sometimes we'll flirt,
In IMs we chat deeply, and reveal why we hurt.

Why is it on screen, we are so easily bold,
Telling our secrets, that have never been told.
The answer is simple, it is as clear as a bell,
We all have our problems, and need someone to tell.

We can't tell real people, but tell someone we must
So we turn to our 'puters ...and to those we can trust.
Even though it sounds crazy...the truth still remains,
Most of my "friends" have no faces...and odd little names.

XOXOXO

Maeci Misses Her Nonnie

2009-09-26T10:42:00.002-04:00

I love this! Maeci went to the park with her sitter and found this leaf. She brought it home to me with so much excitement! "Mom, look what I found! Nonnie would love this!" See the print on this leaf?

My mom loved the leopard/cheetah print (not in the tacky sorta way, you know like she didn't put it everywhere or on everything, maybe...)

I love that Maeci misses her so much that even a simple thing like a leaf brought her memory back to Nonnie. She has carried it around for days now. Isn't that beautiful???

Friday Funny!!!

2009-09-25T13:30:00.001-04:00

Just read this on my friend Becky's blog and it was just way to funny not to share!

I went grocery shopping recently while not being altogether sure that course of action was a wise one. You see, the previous evening I had prepared and consumed a massive quantity of my dad's patented 'You're definitely going to crap yer pants' chili.' Tasty stuff, albeit hot to the point of being painful, which comes with a written guarantee from me that if you eat it the next day both of your butt cheeks WILL fall off.

Here's the thing. I had awakened that morning, and even after two cups of coffee (and all of you know what I mean) nothing happened. No 'Watson's Movement #2.' Despite habanero peppers swimming their way through my colon, I appeared to be unable to create the usual morning symphony referred to by my next door neighbors as thunder and lightning.

Knowing that a moment of reckoning was to come, yet just not sure when, I bravely set off for the market, a local Wal-Mart grocery store that I often haunt in search of tasty tidbits.

Upon entering the store at first all seemed normal. I selected a cart and began pushing it about dropping items in for purchase. It wasn't until I was at the opposite end of the store from the rest-rooms that the pain hit me. Oh, don't look at me like you don't know what I'm talking about.
I'm referring to that 'Uh oh, gotta go' pain that always seems to hit us at the wrong time. The thing is, this pain was different. The habaneros in the chili from the night before were staging a revolt. In a mad rush for freedom they bullied their way through the small intestines, forcing their way into the large intestines, and before I could take one step in the direction of the rest-rooms - it happened, the peppers fired a warning shot.

There I stood, alone in the spice and baking aisle, suddenly enveloped in a noxious cloud the likes of which has never before been recorded. I was afraid to move for fear that more of this vile odor might escape me. Slowly, oh so slowly, the pressure seemed to leave the lower part of my body, I began to move up the aisle and out of it, just as an elderly woman turned into it. I don't know what made me do it, but I stopped to see what her reaction would be to the malodorous effluvium that refused to dissipate, as she walked into it unsuspecting. Have you ever been torn in two different directions emotionally?

Here's what I mean, and I'm sure some of you at least will be able to relate. I could've warned that poor woman but didn't. I simply watched as she walked into an invisible, and apparently indestructible, wall of odor so terrible that all she could do before gathering her senses and running, was to stand there blinking and waving her arms about her head as though
trying to ward off angry bees. This, of course, made me feel terrible, but then made me laugh.. Mistake.

Here's the thing. When you laugh, it's hard to keep things 'clamped down', if you know what I mean. With each new guffaw an explosive issue burst forth from my nether region. Some were so loud and echoing that I was later told a few folks in other aisles had ducked, fearing that someone was robbing the store and firing off a shotgun.

Suddenly things were no longer funny. IT was coming, and I raced off through the store towards the restrooms, laying down a cloud the whole way, praying that I'd make it before the grand mal buttplosion took place.

Luck was on my side. Just in the nick of time I got to the john, began the inevitable 'Oh my God', floating above the toilet seat because my butt is burning SO BAD, purging. One poor fellow walked in while I was in the middle of what is the true meaning of 'Shock and Awe'. He made a gagging sound, and disgustedly said, 'What the ???!', then quickly left.

Once finished I left the restroom, reacquired my partially filled cart intending to carry on with my shopping when a store employee approached me and said, 'Sir, you might want to step outside for a few minutes. It appears some prankster set off a stink bomb in the store. The manager is going to run the vent fans on high for a minute or two which ought to take care of the problem.'

That of course set me off again, causing residual gases to escape me. The employee took one sniff, jumped back pulling his shirt up to cover his nose and, pointing at me in an accusing manner shouted, 'IT'S YOU!', then ran off returning moments later with the manager. I was unceremoniously escorted from the premises and asked none too kindly not to return.

Home again without having shopped, I realized that there was nothing to eat but leftover chili, so I consumed two more bowls.

The next day I went to shop at Albertson's. I can't say anymore about that because we are in court over the whole matter. Their managers claim they're going to have to repaint the store...

Now you can go get some Puffs w/ Lotion (because they are truly the best, you don't want a raw nose) and wipe the tears from laughing. Enjoy the rest of your day!! ♥

Enjoying the Kenny Chesney concert....

2009-09-21T13:54:00.002-04:00

My little Jaybird (aka hubby, Jay) surprised me with Kenny Chesney and Friends concert tickets! An early anniversary gift (Sept. 30 is the day). I've always wanted to see Kenny live! The best part of the whole night, besides spending time with Jay, not Kenny : ), was when Sugarland graced the stage at Lucas Oil Stadium! I have one word only...WOW! They are my favorite, better than guacamole and Hint of Lime Tostito chips, favorite!!! The others were Zac Brown, Montgomery Gentry & Miranda Lambert. The entire show was FABULOUS!

There were several moments I could have gone without seeing for the rest of my life:

1. Short, short, did I say short? Short skirts with scrunchy cowboy boots. Really? Not my thing. Maybe I'm to old.
2. Short, short, did I say short? Short skirts with scrunchy cowboy boots. Really? Not my thing. Maybe I'm to old.
(Is several more than 2? Ok, I have one more.)
3. The guy next to me rips his shirt off during "She Thinks My Tractor's Sexy"! WHAT??? His girlfriend was all about it! He was singin' and twirling it around his head and the best part...SOBER! LOL!

I just like a true cowgirl...you know...Wrangler jeans, "real" boots, hat...not trying to impress anybody cowgirl. Amen.

This was Kenny's last performance for a while. He even sported a Colts hat for the Indy fans! The last song was "Better as a Memory". He didn't make it through the song before he started crying. Made him "real" and more amazing! He's taking a year long sabbatical to spend time with his family. I'm sure it's a much needed break and I hope he enjoys every minute of it!

So, thank you Jay, Kenny, SUGARLAND & Friends! I had a great time!

There's a fundraiser goin' on for Philip!

2009-09-15T13:35:00.002-04:00

Please take a moment to read about Philip here (You can also see Philip's button on the right hand side of my blog). He's a very special guy who's having a very tough time but who also has the most loving mom (Amy) that I know. She is truly an inspiration to all of us who have come to know her. Amy's faith in God is tremendous!

Click here or on Amy's name above to read about the fundraiser. Thank you for taking the time to get to know this awesome family! I love her and you will too!

It's all about softball...

2009-09-11T22:58:00.003-04:00

Maeci has become quite the softball player in less than 2 months. We decided to sign her up for a Fall league. It was a short season but perfect for her. She's never played before and she's doing terrific! She loves 2nd base and finally hit the ball last night! Granted they were foul balls but does that really matter all that much??? She HIT the ball and I was cheering from the sidelines!!! GO MAECI!!! Cuz that's what Mom's do! Tomorrow is the tournament. We play 2 games and I will have to update you with winner this weekend. Here's a few pictures of my little player... Enjoy you weekend!!

Wow....

2009-09-11T22:37:00.002-04:00

I can't believe I have a blog and I don't blog. I stopped in to check on a friends blog and can't believe how much I've missed! I quit because it's definitely overwhelming, I never have anything to say and it takes so so much time! How do you all keep up???

Now I could blog about Maeci and softball, Jay and his painting business, our Chicago trip we took last weekend or me sitting her worrying myself SICK because my son just left to drive to IU to hang with some buddies.

I'm not a good writer so I find it hard to keep this blogging thing going. But, you know what, I'm gonna blog about Maeci and softball first.

So stay tuned....I'll be back in a few. Thanks for listening to my rambling!

Shauna is having a contest to win a portable DVD player!!!

2009-07-31T17:40:00.002-04:00

Hop over to my girl Shauna's blog Trying to Stay Calm and enter to (watch me) win!!!

Can You Hear Me???

2009-07-19T16:04:00.000-04:00

This girl cracks me up! She was listening to me very seriously. I know she wanted to talk back because she was getting in trouble! She is a lively little thing!

Give-A-Way!!!

2009-07-10T20:47:00.002-04:00

Another fun give-a-way! Check out my friend Shauna's blog and win a fabulous blow dryer!!! Click here, SHAUNA, and read the rules, play along and hopefully you (I) will win!!! : )

Still Feelin' the 4th

2009-07-10T12:52:00.000-04:00

I hope everyone's holiday was safe but fun! I need to get caught up on blogs so I can see what you all did!

I failed to share with you yet another photo of Pop in all his 4th of July glory. He saw the hats in a gift shop during our trip home from Oklahoma. He couldn't stop himself...I turned around and there he was looking all Uncle Sam Minnie Pearlishesque (BTW I made that word up...in case you were wondering).

He loves to torture us with his goofiness. We wouldn't want him any other way. Imagine how boring life would be! Love ya Pop!

Kristen's Contest

2009-07-07T11:34:00.004-04:00

Hi all! Long time no talk! There's a contest going on that you don't want to miss!!! Kristen makes FABULOUS 925 hand stamped jewelry! She has loads of styles to choose from or you can create your own design! Click here www.kristenandrewsonline.blogspot.com to enter! Have a great Tuesday!!!

What??? I have to pay to enter??

2009-06-29T21:16:00.002-04:00

So, I stopped on the way home and got my hair cut (love it by the way) and came home to this. Scuze me? Even a money envelope???

I gotta pay to enter my daughters room?? Moo, I birthed you, feed you, hold you when you are sad, buy you things....HELLO! If I can't enter without paying, who's going to "help" you clean you're room....just sayin.

I guess if I want to see her, I had better start saving my dimes.....or not. BAAAHAHAHAHA!!!

Fun in the Sun

2009-06-13T15:48:00.000-04:00

We love the sun, the heat, the pool, the smiles, the laughter and even the screams, screeches and yells from the little ones. Today is a beautiful day!

Why??

2009-06-11T13:58:00.002-04:00

Because I can and I couldn't stop myself. I pushed my floor (which is 11) and before I could get out, it happened. My finger was out of control. I know it was immature but something came over me...I'm sorry. But you can't tell me that none of y'all have EVER done anything like this...maybe not when you were 43...but still.

Wild Olive Tee Giveaway!!

2009-06-10T13:54:00.005-04:00

I know you all love giveaways! Here's one of the best! Get your verse on, spread the word and look so so cool in your fitted worn tee! And one of the owners is a friend of mine..Amie (although we've never met in person, there's a connection) and she's cool so you know the T's are cool!

You (or I) could win $75 in free t's just by commenting, posting, adding a button to your sidebar, etc. about their giveway!

So hop on over to Wild Olive Tees and check them out! I have a tee and I absolutely love it! The feel, the fit, the color and the verse....

Romans 11:17

And you Gentiles, who were branches from a wild olive tree, have been grafted in. So now you also receive the blessing God has promised Abraham and his children, sharing in the rich nourishment from the root of God’s special olive tree.

Um...Pop???

2009-06-09T08:32:00.004-04:00

Close your eyes now if you are easily scared! This will either terrify you or make you cry.

This is my Dad (aka Pop). He was a sport and performed a singing birthday gram for his boss. I didn't know whether to laugh, cry or disown him and move far far away when I received this photo. I was speechless. And that is not normal for me, ask anyone in my family.

The scary thing is that he looks very comfortable. Sigh....any single ladies out there? We need help! We were told that he was a hit and the performance was hilarious! He's even sporting a bra stuffed with toilet paper rolls. His boss turned three shades of red when Pops "breast" hit his shoulder. (That sounds so wrong.)

And thank you niece Hannah for providing him with the lovely red shades to complete his ensemble! Why would you support this?? Oh and I have to mention that my sister provided the bra! I should mention that the bra was not my sisters, it was a new bra and had never been worn. But still!

So, this is a look into our lives with Pop in it. We really are a "normal" family. Maybe....

Please don't leave me after you read this post. I ask that you pray for me and Sheli...pray hard.

Graduation 2009

2009-05-31T18:52:00.003-04:00

Well, it's over and I made it! And so did Jake! I can't believe he's all growed up! 18 yrs ago we were blessed with a handsome baby boy. Weighing in at 8.7 lbs on February 7, 1991. I can't believe it's been 18 years! The years really do fly by! My parents were right. I've enjoyed every minute of being his mom and will continue to enjoy it. Yep, there's been some trying times but I wouldn't change a thing. I'm truly proud of him!

Here's some photos from graduation for your viewing pleasure.....

Getting ready to head to the school...

Jake walking with one of his best friends, Brad...

Listening to the speeches...

Getting the goods...

I graduated!!...

End of ceremony...the beach ball appears...

Jake and his girlfriend Jordyn...

Cousins...

Jake and his buddies...

And this? This warms my heart...Jake & Pop...

There you have it...Graduation 2009. Now to finish up the last few details for the open house.

I hope everyone had a GREAT weekend!

My Baby is Graduating!!!

2009-05-29T15:51:00.018-04:00

I'm hyperventilating, my stomach is in knots
and I think I may throw up. Seriously, I am a
nervous wreck! How am I going to make it through
the ceremony?

I suppose with a paper bag
and a
truckload
of Puff's
with lotion.
I just can't
believe
it's here,
it's tonight,
it's 3 hours
and 30 min. away.....

And another thing?
I wish my Mom was here to see him graduate.

myPod + yourPod = ourPod

2009-05-18T11:26:00.004-04:00

I heart music. I heart all kinds of music. Rock, R&B, Big Band, Christian, Country, Rap, Pop, Oldies and all the stuff in between.

I thought it would be fun to share music with each other. I will post the first 20 songs on my iTouch to share with you. Play along, whether you post in my comments or do your own post on your blog, I need new tunes to download! If you do your own post, please let me know so I can come over and grab your list!

I'm so excited to see everyone's playlist!

1. How Long Has This Been Going Going On
2. Blinded By the Light - Steve Miller Band
3. Call My Name - Third Day
4. Dancin' in the Moonlight - King Harvest
5. Do I - Luke Bryan
6. Shining Star - Earth, Wind & Fire
7. Who Loves You - Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons
8. Dream Weaver - Gary Wright
9. Heart Cries Holy - Big Daddy Weave
10.Here I Am - Downhere
11.I Am Free - Newsboys
12.Come Monday - Jimmy Buffett
13.Learn to Live - Darius Rucker
14.Dancing Queen - Abba
15.Hearts - Marty Balin
16.Have You Ever Loved Someone - Monica & Brandi
17.No Boundaries - Kris Allen
18.Roll with the Changes - REO
19.Your the Reason God Made Oklahoma - David Frizzell/Shelly West
20.Isn't She Lovely - Stevie Wonder

Now show me what you're rocking out too!

2009-05-17T23:05:00.001-04:00

UPDATE! Maeci is fine! Just badly bruised. Nothin' a little ice and Ibuprofin couldn't fix. I'm not one to run to the ER with every little bump or scrape, but she cried and cried. I'm not good when my kids are in pain. I'm glad we had it looked at and all is well at the Young's.

Maeci Moo got stepped on!

2009-05-16T23:50:00.001-04:00

Look at this face...pitiful. Miss Maeci Jae was dancin up a storm at her cousins wedding. She was having a wonderful time until the lady with the stillettos showed up. OUCH! She's been crying for 40 min. That is why she's laying in a hospital bed. I decided it needed to be checked out. It hurts to be stepped on. So, we are waiting for the xray results now. Please pray that its not broken. How will she dance at the next shindig?

Maeci Moo, The Boy and The Girl

2009-05-13T18:00:00.002-04:00

My cousin, Marchelle, is an amazing photographer! She has an "eye" for getting the best shots! And guess who reaps the benefits of having a photographer in the family (that's right ME) AND guess who she lives next door to (yep ME)!

We would be kinda like the Beverly Hillbillies if we all lived under the same roof...except for there's no Granny or Uncle. But Jethro and Elly May were cousins, so that's where the reference comes into play...follow me people.

Anyway, she took Moo with her on a little road trip with her adorable kiddo's to her Grandma's house. This is what I got for letting Moo go with her...well, this and a little peace and quiet, not that Moo is loud or anything but she does talk non-stop and I'm not even kidding. I know I'll miss it - someday.

OMGosh...the eyes, people, look at the eyes!

This is Maeci (aka Moo) with The Boy and The Girl
3 adorable kids

I love this so much

Sweet and innocent....for a moment...
just a moment

Fancy free and footloose!
Love the flying pony tail!

Um...I'm not sure what this look was for
but I like it.

Taco, Burrito (SNL reference)...oh...wrong cheer
GO TEAM

Beautiful

Thanks Marchelle for making my day! I heart you.

Mother's Day

2009-05-12T13:01:00.003-04:00

This is the sorta thing I look forward to on Mother's Day.

Handmade stuffed with cotton puffy colorful hearts made with thought, crayons, staples and love.

And this,

Words written by a 9 yr. old in pencil, thought out on her own.

And this,

Words that say "I love you very (not just one very but two) very much", "You're the best mom ever". There's really nothing sweeter.

And then there's this,

Her handwritten little nickname signature. Seriously, who could ask for more.

I cherish and save each and every one of my handmade gifts from my kids.

My son is 18 now and I miss these small but wonderful gifts of love. Which, makes me appreciate even more, the gifts my daughter brings to me.

Time passes so quickly and soon I won't have them from her either.

My eyes are blurry with tears, I can't see so I'll leave you with this.

Me and my kids....

I hope you all had a FABULOUS Mothers Day!!!

Love,

I changed my blog name and I need help!

2009-05-11T09:14:00.002-04:00

But forgot to give everyone the new address...I think. So, if I did or didn't, here it is again. I changed it back so y'all could see this. If I'm doing it wrong, will someone please let me know. Cuz if you put the new address in while using the old one and then you put the new address in your list....sigh...I don't know how to do this....HELP!!!!!

New address: www.liveyounglaughhard.blogspot.com

3 Column Blog Background

2009-05-09T11:00:00.002-04:00

One more thing-Can someone PLEASE walk me through creating a 3 column blog? I've tried on my own and it ain't workin!!

Thanks!!

New Blog Name

2009-05-09T10:45:00.003-04:00

Ok, thanks Lori!! I had lots of good ideas but I really like this one. It's simple. My new blog address is:

http://www.liveyounglaughhard.blogspot.com/

Thanks again!!

So Not Creative

2009-05-09T01:09:00.014-04:00

Ok, so I've been thinking for awhile now about changing my blog name. I never liked it but could not think of anything! There are so many cool blog names out there and so many creative people out there.

I'm not creative like that... The first thing that came to mind was, yep I'm sure you guessed it, ready, this is HUGE -

The Young and the Restless

I'm not feelin' it.

A few friends in blog world have talked or have already changed theirs so they inspired me to hurry up and get it done. I'm a procrastinator....seriously, it's ridiculous.

Here's where you come in. I still don't like it what I picked.

Can you help me??? Please? It's not a contest, I don't have anything to give away cept' my gratitude and love.

Tea Time

2009-05-07T23:56:00.000-04:00

Do you like hot tea? I love hot tea. It never fails though, I almost always burn my tongue and its messed up for days after! LOL!

How nice is this??? One of my female co-workers surprised us on Admn. Assistant Day with this. Its a box of hot tea-tons of flavors and a cute jewel colored travel mug, we each got a different color! Green is my favorite!

So very sweet and thoughtful and perfect!

What's your favorite flavor??

Thankful Thursday

2009-05-07T08:36:00.000-04:00

Iced Mocha Latte = Bliss.......for today.
The month of May is becoming a stressful month for me and this little concoction is proving to be good medicine. Without going into to much detail, (cuz I don't want to bore you) the biggest deal that's happening is my little boy is graduating high school. Sniff, sniff, snot (I hate snot), waaa haaaaa, sniff.....sorry, I need a tissue....

And do you know that I had a friend who I've never met in person, offer to drive several hours to help me with open house?? I love her.

Wordless Wednesday - The New JCPenney Models-Silly Boys

2009-05-06T12:30:00.001-04:00

I.Don't.Do.Spiders.

2009-05-05T19:00:00.002-04:00

Maeci: "Mom, there's a huge spider over here."
Me: "Where?"
Maeci: "Over here."
Me: "Did you kill it?"
Maeci: "Mom, it has a life too."

WHAT?????????????? Seriously???? I wonder where that spider is now.......... Why is she a lover of ALL things creepy, crawly and otherwise disgusting???? It had better not show up in my bed!

2009 Senior Prom

2009-05-04T08:03:00.014-04:00

There are some things in life that are bittersweet and Jake attending his last prom was one of those moments for me. I really can't believe that my little boy is 18 and graduating this month.

Ok, moving along, no time for tears, this was a happy moment!

The boys got all dressed up and headed out to pick up the girls. We met them at the park for picture takin' time.

Here we are at the park taking tons of pictures! Here's a few....

The were so many gorgeous dresses that it made me want to be a Senior again...just for a minute.

The kids had a wonderful time! They showed up at Post Prom very tired but still enjoyed themselves. Jay and I had a great time too chaperoning!

Giveaway at Cinnamon & Honey's

2009-05-01T09:24:00.002-04:00

Another giveaway at Cinnamon & Honey's blog!!! My bloggy friend Kristen makes FABULOUS hand stamped sterling silver (925) jewelry! Seriously!! Go check it out!! Enter to win! Don't forget to follow all the rules!!!

Sheli's in Recovery!

2009-04-30T13:23:00.004-04:00

Pops just called and Sheli is in recovery. The doc was able to see the disc right away, it was sitting right on a nerve! OUCH! Probably her LAST nerve! Lame, but I know some of you laughed right out loud!!

Anyway, all repairs are finished. She will go home tomorrow as long as she is doing good.

Thanks to all who prayed!!

Dentist Visit

2009-04-30T11:48:00.001-04:00

Maeci Moo and her favorite hygenist! Who knew you could look so cool while getting your teeth cleaned?! They kinda look like super heros.....

And NO cavities!!

2009-04-30T11:03:00.001-04:00

Today is a rainy stormy gloomy day....sounds like the beginning of a scary story or maybe I woke up in Forks, WA?

Anyway, my sister, Sheli is in surgery as I type this. It should take right around 3 hrs to repair some back issues. I'm praying that its a smooth surgery and that she has a full recovery. Mainly cuz we are missing her good cooking...ok, don't gasp, I'm only kidding...kinda.

My Dad (aka Pop) is going to call me as soon as they hear from the doc! Thanks for all the prayers!

New Friend?

2009-04-18T18:49:00.005-04:00

Found Jay outside with a new friend. Jay, do we need to talk?

He looks a little irritated that he got caught...sorry. Don't let me interrupt....carry on....

Facebook

2009-04-17T13:23:00.006-04:00

So, I'm totally ~~copying~~ borrowing, this video from my friend Ashley's blog. It's HI LARRY US!!! If you use Facebook, you have to watch this! I hate to leave anyone out of something that will hopefully give you at least a smile!

Woo to the Hoo Wednesday.....Best Raspberries in the South

2009-04-15T13:27:00.012-04:00

Some of you will think this is crude, some will think "Why?", some will think "Oh, what a gifted child!"

My Woo to the Hoo goes to Delaney, my girlfriend Ang's talented daughter.

This girl has got a set a lips and an arm for the best sounding.....ahem.....let's call them "raspberries" for the sake of those who are thinking this is crude and "Why?"

I would go into detail about the way they sounded but I won't, you know, for the sake of those who are thinking this is crude and "Why?"

I promise you, I have never heard anything quite so, so....ok we'll just keep using this word...crude, coming out of a mouth! I'm sure it was one of Ang's proudest moment as a mother.

D.A.N.G. girl, how do you do that????!!! The girls got skillz!!!

Easter 2009

2009-04-14T23:14:00.016-04:00

Every year we have an Easter Egg Hunt. It seems over the years that it has gotten smaller and smaller, I guess that's cuz the kids are getting bigger and bigger. We only had 3 this year...kids not egg hunts. But there are some things that will never change and one of those things will always be "hiding an egg in your sock".

Ever since I can remember, my Papa always hid an egg in his sock. It just made his day and he would sit and sit till someone found that egg! Every year! And every year the kids who had been around for awhile, knew it was there. The new kids...not so much. It has been a family tradition and will continue you on as long as there are little ones to play along. This year my Papa wasn't around to watch the hunt so my dad, aka Pop, took over. I think he's done it a few times and I think he enjoys it a little to much..just a little. Maybe it's the inner 8 yr old that craves to come out constantly!

I didn't get a very good picture and I'm sure that you all are dissappointed...but picture if you will and egg in his sock...got it? Good.

We had to go through the whole, "you're getting hotter, hotter, oops now your cold, oh oh oh almost there, hotter, colder, WARM....you got it!!!

You are warm....

Warmer...hot...oohhh colder....

YES!!! CHA CHING!!!

Oh the excitement!!!

Everyone also gets a prize egg...

it's got their name on it and just maybe a little cash!

It's wonderful to have family traditions even if they seem small and silly! I love each and every one of ours. We had a great day and was nice that my sister was able to join us, even though she is following strict bedrest orders! We called and she said, I can't wait to get up and get out of here. There was no begging or anything! Hmmm....Isn't that the way it was Sheli? Oops, did I screw up? Oh yeah....we hog tied her and threw her on the tractor....maybe it was on the horse.....hmmm, I hope her doctor doesn't read this.....

Anyhoo, do you have Easter traditions that you want to share? I would love to hear them!

Moo & Paddles

2009-04-14T18:21:00.003-04:00

Moo & Paddles on the way home from South Carolina last week. I love that she still has him.

http://m.flickr.com/photo.gne?id=3442307951&

This post is really all about trying out blogging from my phone! What an awesome feature!!

2009-04-14T17:43:00.001-04:00

So, I'm trying out a new thing! Well maybe its not new to some of you! Blogging from my Blackberry!! How cool!!! Now I will have to think of something to post that's worth reading, unlike this little masterpiece!

I'm back!!!!

2009-04-14T12:27:00.005-04:00

Not that anyone missed me or anything but I hope you did...a little...I missed you!

We went to SC to visit my girlfriend Angie and her beautiful family!!! We had so so so much fun! The weather stunk BUT who needs sunshine and warm weather when you are with you buddies?! (um I might need a little of it....just sayin.) Ashley even came to visit us from Georgia! We had a great time and you know we were giggling like teenagers!

We stayed a whole week and laughed and talked, watched movies, went boating, went shopping, did a little farming on Farm Town, hung out on Facebook (just when it was rainy), got a little sun, etc. All the things you do when you are with friends!

I thought I would share a few photos with you! Enjoy!

Talk to you all soon!

Giveaway!!!!

2009-04-14T11:30:00.003-04:00

Hi all! Wow, It's been a month since I've even checked my own blog out! I've missed you guys!

Now, I need to tell you all about a giveaway that I just entered on Kristen's blog! She's very cool AND she makes beautiful hand stamped sterling silver jewelry! Go check it out!!!

I will hopefully be back soon!

{{{hugs}}}

Wild Olive Tees

2009-03-11T15:11:00.003-04:00

Hi long lost friends!!! I'm so sorry I've not been posting! Or commenting, which is really the most important thing! And you all have been so kind to leave me love! I love you all back! A Twitter friend sent a tweet today about these really cool tees.

Love them!!! I am ordering one TODAY...compliments of my sister, Sheli for my birthday! Thanks Sheli!!!

Now click the button to the right of this post and go check them out for yourselves!

Wordless Wednesday

2009-03-04T12:06:00.000-05:00

Woo to the Hoo Wednesday

2009-02-25T17:35:00.005-05:00

Blogging just hasn't been my thing lately. Not sure why, but I haven't felt like boring you with my NOT exciting, mundane life. I could have told you about my hubs wrecked car, or my little Nieci who has cherry eye in both eyes, or my daughter telling me her favorite show is CSI or Jake telling me he now wants to be a Policeman.....sigh.....but I didn't cuz I still want you all to be my friends....I need you.....

So, I decided to post a WTTH post. Cuz it's quick, easy and painless....and might be just a little boring?

Here's my WTTH post for this week!

I ♥ Lime Coke from Sonic! It can't be from anywhere else! Not even DQ....they try but it doesn't quite cut it. I know I've got some girlz out there (my BFF's) who feel the same way! You know who you are!

If you haven't tried one, run, now to your nearest Sonic!!!

I can't believe I just wasted my time and yours on Lime Coke from Sonic....Hee hee...is anyone out there? Are you still reading this....zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

I ♥ Faces...Wonder

2009-02-18T20:00:00.004-05:00

I love this website...I ♥ Face s...I entered the contest this week for "Wonder".

This is my daughter Maeci meeting her new baby cousin, The Boy, for the first time.

Now, click on the link above and enter your cute photo! : )

Hugs!!

Publish Post

Wordless Wednesday...My Babies...Maeci & Nieci

2009-02-18T06:00:00.002-05:00

Hugs!

2009-02-16T13:01:00.003-05:00

Hi sweet friends! I just wanted to apologize for being an awful bloggy friend!!! I haven't commented on several of your blogs for so so long!

Please don't be mad and if you are mad, just don't tell me! I'm an emotional person but pretty good about holding it in. If I suspect you all might be upset, it could throw me over the edge and in turn would make me weepeth. I would rather not cry because I don't do well with snot AT ALL! Just keepin it real.

So, I'm sorry, I will hopefully be back soon when I have something worth blogging about and when I can sit and catch up with each of your lives! Just didn't want any of you to think I've forgotten about our virtual friendships! It's so funny, we've never met but I think about you all the time!

Hugs!!! xoxo

Woo to the Hoo Wednesday

2009-02-11T13:27:00.006-05:00

We're here to say goodbye to a cherished friend: Reba, the hamster. Reba was a good hamster. She was a fine listener, always willing to put a smile on the face of my little Moo. (Even though she made it hard to sleep at night with her gnawing on the sides of the cage and running a marathon on that squeaky wheel)....she will be sadly missed. (I won't miss cleaning that cage!) Moo would put her in her little hamster ball and let her roam around....the cat loved that...said with EVIL laugh!

So...Reba, the hamster was laid to rest this morning. Well, not really, she's laying very still in her cage which is still in my daughters room because I couldn't bring myself to carry her downstairs out to to the garage.

So...I sent a text to Mr. Mom and told him to PLEASE have the hamster G.O.N.E. when I get home. I loved that little rodent and didn't mind holding her but seeing her laying there made me sick....cuz now she's just a rodent. Ugh! I know that sounds harsh but I'm just keepin' it real.

Anyway....Reba is gone...Moo was sad for a moment this morning but she's one that takes death very easy. I'm not sure why. She doesn't cry, she wants to talk about it but doesn't really get upset.

I wish I had a picture to share with you all but I don't. Just close your eyes and think "fat fuzzy teddy bear hamster"....there, can you see her?

So, my Woo to the Hoo goes to Reba for keeping Moo critter happy for almost a year! I'm going to make myself clear right now...are you listening.....WE ARE NOT GETTING ANOTHER ONE!

New Blogger Alert....

2009-02-05T11:30:00.000-05:00

My girlfriend Tammy has been sucked into our world...Blog World! You can find her by clicking on her name. Her first post was a Wordless Wednesday post. Please show her some love! We need to get her moving on posting and joining in the fun! I know you all can help me!!

Thanks!!! xo

Woo to the Hoo Wednesday and it goes to....

2009-02-04T08:57:00.009-05:00

My Twitter, Blogger, Facebooker, Texter friend Feather, yes it's her real name, started the Woo to the Hoo craze! So, please join me, click on her name and give your own Woo to the Hoo to someone/something deserving....all the cool kids are doing it!

My Grandpa!!! My sister, Sheli, did a wonderful tribute to our Grandmother yesterday. If you haven't read it, you should, but make sure you have kleenex or a sleeve...you'll need it. So..I thought I would give my Woo to the Hoo button to my Papa for taking care of our Grandma.

Ray, aka Papa, is kind, gentle, patient (although that is being tested these days), hard working, loving, heart of gold, honest, positive...I could go on and on. He taught me (all of us) to have love in our hearts for all, he taught us to pray and to have faith in God, to work hard, be responsible for your actions and always be honest and kind and "don't sweat the small stuff". Every day is a beautiful day to Papa and he always tells us (when we are on the phone with him) that we are "lookin' good"! And there's nothin' better than getting a Papa pat on the back....he pats your back and says "I appreciate you dear"...sigh...I love him.

I (we) all love him so much for who he is and for how he is taking care of our Grandma, aka GiGi, Granny. Their life together is a TRUE love story from beginning to end. Grandma has dementia and is not doing so well these days. She still has spunk and we can still make her giggle (which I love!) and she has so much love for her family! And, the most beautiful blue eyes you've ever seen!

Ok, back to Papa...he has given Grandma the best care. It is clear how deep their love is when he looks at her. He still tells her she's beautiful, tells her he loves her all the time, hugs, pats, opens doors, helps her eat and so many other personal things.

So, Woo to the Hoo to Papa for his loving care!!!

Love you, Papa!!!

Week 4's Pet Contest

2009-02-02T17:57:00.003-05:00

I just posted that I entered a photo contest, The Eyes Have It, and now I'm entering the Pet contest. So, check out the post before this post only because I don't want you to miss Gabby's cuteness not because I don't want you to miss my fine pitcher takin' skills!

I'm not sure that this constitutes as a pet BUT some people have pet pigs, I'm sure they do, maybe......

Here's the link again for you "iHeartFaces", go enter!

xo

The Eyes Have It...

2009-02-02T17:27:00.005-05:00

Do you like taking pictures just for fun or do you take them likes it's your job....cuz it IS your job? I take them just for fun but I do take them "like it's my job" because I ♥ taking pictures! Now whether they are good or not, that's a good question......but it's still fun and I'm makin' memories!

I entered the Week 4's contest... The Eyes Have It!

Join me and enter your fun picture at iHeartFaces!

This is my girlfriend, Nicole's, daughter Gabrielle, Gabby or Gabs, as we like to call her. Isn't she cute??

So, head over to iHeartFaces and enter!!

xo

Snow Day and a Thankful Thursday!

2009-01-29T21:00:00.000-05:00

Please please please pray!!! My friend Nicole's daughter was admitted to the hospital tonight with RSV, my friend Feather's niece is in the hospital with RSV and Bart Millard's (Mercy Me) daughter Sophie is also in the hospital with RSV! All three baby's are not doing well and need our prayers!! I know there are some awesome prayer warriors out there!! Thank you in advance!!!

What do you do when you get a snow day??? Play in the snow of course! And if you have a really cool big brother, you get a really big mound of snow AND a ramp right in your backyard!!!

This is the cool big brother who made the mound and the ramp...

He looks a little disgusted but I thing he was just frozen.

It took quite awhile to build this masterpiece.

This is the cool mound of snow and

ramp that the cool big brother made for his little sis...

Do you realize how many times I heard "Watch me Mom", "Watch this", "Wait, watch this one"...

I was frrreeezzziiiinnnggg brrrrrrrrr...

But you know it was worth it...not really...ok maybe a little..but it was still cold.....

Can you see that it was dark out?

I had a hard time getting her in the house!

Side note: Isn't it cool how the camera captured the snowflakes?
I thought so too!

The End

So, the Thankful Thursday part of this is....How awesome is it to have a brother that is almost 9 yrs. older (18 next week!) take the time to do this for you and your friends?! I'm thankful that they get along, most of the time and that he chose to do this for her AND enjoyed every minute of it! I know Moo is thankful...you should have seen the smile! There's that smile again! : )

I love it!

I hope everyone that had snow days, had fun!!!

Love you all!

Wordless Wednesday

2009-01-28T11:40:00.001-05:00

My sister, Sheli, is blogging!!!

2009-01-27T17:03:00.005-05:00

Good grief, it's about time!!! She couldn't take the pressure! You all will love her just as much as I do (hmmm...did I just type that?). She's a pain in the bu...side but she's fun! So, please, please, please follow her blog or she'll cry and snot everywhere and I just can't take that! Not that I will feel sorry for her or anything, I just don't like snot!

Keli & Sheli = Skeli

You can find her here - www.whileiamwaiting423.blogspot.com

You gals & guys are the best!!! xoxoxo

Can we get a puppy????

2009-01-25T22:00:00.005-05:00

NO NO NO NO and gee let me think....NO! These words were repeated several times for several months by Jay, my hubby, the Dad, Mr. Mom, the Man of House, etc. And who can deny me my birthday present from my Dad????

Guess what????? Meet Nieci....
He gave in!

She's supposed to be part Jack Russell and part Toy Terrier. Not thinkin that's what she is...we think she's part Min Pin, if not all. She weighs 6.2 oz and is so little. But, in the end, it doesn't matter, she needed a home and a loving family.

She is sooo loveable, cute, sweet and is adjusting so well! And did I mention that she has not barked at all?! She cried for a couple seconds when I put her in her bed but she was out like a light in no time. She had her first Vet visit on our way home from picking her up. I will blog about that this week...you know we took pictures! : )

And after, "I don't want nothin to do with her!" BAHWAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA! He loves her!!! He's not so tough deep inside! There's a heart in there and she found it on the first day.

Love at first sight!!!

Oh, and one last thing...she's not a dog...she's a baby. My baby. She will have all girlie things, including a girlie leash and collar....I love her. I wonder if she will like to shop...hmmmm...

I hope you all had a fabulous weekend!!! xoxo

The Seniors Won!

2009-01-24T00:33:00.004-05:00

My son, Jake #3, is a Senior this year and the Seniors play the Faculty every year in basketball game. All proceeds benefited Riley Hospital for Children! How cool is that??

For the last 12 years the Faculty have been the big winners! But guess what???? Not this year! Nope!! The Seniors won!!! What an awesome memory for Jake to look back on!

And the game itself? HI LARRY US! The Seniors wore the "old school" uniforms from decades ago..hee hee! And the Senior boys who are on the "real" varsity team were the coaches! They decided to dress up...scary. I have a few shots. Some of these picture were taken by one of the teachers, this #1 Mom, forgot her camera! I was not happy! And some were taken with my trusty ol' Blackberry.

Home-Seniors/Guest-Faculty

It was an awesome game and fun family time!

Have a wonderful weekend sweet friends!!! xoxo

I Love....

2009-01-19T01:28:00.004-05:00

Ok, I'm joining the iHeartFaces fun with photography! I'm entering a photo for the kids and one for the adults! If you haven't checked out their website, go, run, hurry click and enter your photos! All the cool kids are doin it and I know you don't want to be left out! :)

Moo and her friend playing in the snow..

This is my Grandmother..she is an amazing women..

I hope you all go check out the site and enter your pictures. If you do...Good luck to all!

Snow...FINALLY!

2009-01-18T17:00:00.001-05:00

The kids are excited! The parents...not so much! I despise Winter and everything that comes with it...snow, cold, ice, slush, chattering teeth, aching bones, dry skin...all of it! YUCK!

Ok, there is one little thing that I do like, the smile on Moo's face when it snows! It brightens her day! These pictures are from Wednesday. I think it was something like 4 below 0 and there was no keepin her in! So, we told her to bundle up and head out but to come in when she could no longer feel any of her limbs. And if she didn't make it in time, to please yell at the top of your lungs and someone would come to her rescue. She was in snow Heaven!

Moo's friend.

I'm not sure whey the somber look on her face in
the picture above. I think she was waiting on one of

the boys to bring her sled back to her...Dang BOYS!

She was out there for about an hour and finally gave up. She was sooo cold! But the smile was still on her face when she came in. The smile....that's what matters!!

UPDATE....Mr. Mom and his young nurse or should that be Nurse Young?

2009-01-16T17:48:00.002-05:00

Mr. Mom just left the house with Moo on his heels....he took her shopping!!! What??? So, if I would have done my wifely duties do you think he would have taken ME shopping????

So, you all know that Mr. Mom had knee surgery. And you all know that I'm not a nurse. Guess what? He's so spoiled right now! Check it out:

Looking for the ingredients for grilled cheese at Daddy O's request.

Very carefully laying the top on...

Moo thought she would add her own special touch.

She didn't tell him. I wonder if he tasted the cinnamon.

Here's the finished product.

She has totally babied him all week! She has covered him up, added ice to his cooler for the cuff on his leg, held the cooler up in the air so the water would come down faster while filling up the cuff, catered to his every wish. And then, behind his back, said....

"Mom, am I gettin paid for this?"

Yep, I raised her right!!!!!

Thank you for all the prayers this week! Mr. Mom is recovering quite well and is now up and around. And we are getting fed right proper!!! hehe

I've been tagged...

2009-01-16T00:00:00.003-05:00

My cuz Marchelle tagged me. It 's an easy tag so I'm gonna cooperate! I'm also gonna say Woo to the Hoo because all the cool kids say it now!

THE RULES.

1. go to your documents/pictures.
2. go to your 6th file.
3. go to your 6th picture.
4. blog about it.
5. tag 6 people to do the same.
6. smileSo here is my 6th pic in my 6th file.

Wow, what a wonderful shot of FOOD. Why?? Hmmm...I believe this is the food we ate while spending the day with my Grandparents during The Covered Bridge Festival. Papa has to have this porkchop in that picture every year! So...we indulged him and had a great time. Cuz that's what matters right?? Spending the day with family.....eating greasy food....Papa & Grandma smiled....that's what matters....

So, as always it's to hard to pick. So, please please please make me smile! If you are reading this, please take the tag and blog about! K? Will it help if I hug you?? {{{Hugs}}}

Mr. Mom had surgery....

2009-01-09T22:12:00.003-05:00

Mr. Mom had surgery today on his knee. They thought at first that he tore the meniscus but after diving in and looking around decided that wasn't it at all. He had ACL surgery 24 years ago, so lots of wear and tear in the knee area and they decided that he just needed some cartilage shaved down and sewed him back up. We were at the hospital at 8:00 am, surgery and 11:45 am and home by 2:00 pm. (if you like to people watch like I do...hang out in a waiting room for 5 hours..Wowee)

So, I come to you in need. I need prayer..yep, ME. I know y'all know that I'm not a nurse nor am I a nurturer. I'm not sure why. Something must have happened in childhood that I've blocked out. As soon as we got home, I had to get him all propped up on the couch and get his leg raised above his heart..ugh...then he needs blankets...3 blankets...then they are to heavy on his leg..Kel can you fix them? Can you cut these hospital bracelets off my arm? Can you help me change the water in the cooler for the brace? I'm hungry? I'm thirsty? Are you kidding me? I do want to say that I saw the faintest little smirk on his cute dimpled face during all this!

The biggest issue with Mr. Mom being down, flat on his back, is that he can't cook dinner! My sister said if he was a real man, he would've had dinner on before we left this morning. And I have to say, I agree! I opened the freezer-no casserole's, nothing. What's a girl to do? I'll tell you what! I headed to Kroger and bought a lemon peppered rotisserie chicken and some macaroni salad! The kids and I have a wedding tomorrow night so dinner will be at the reception. So, we're good for one more night. What the hec am I going to leave him to eat? Chips and a soda? : )

Ok, I'm totally kidding, sorta. I'm not a nurturer or a nurse or a cook. It's just not in me. Never has been and at this point, probably never will be. BUT, I love Mr. Mom and appreciate all that he does for us. He truly is an awesome husband, father and friend. And I will do my very best to take care of him for the next week or so. I have to eat again! LOL!

Now, the following photo is not pretty but I couldn't resist. A guy in support hose will never be pretty. You can tell he totally posed for this picture!

I'm really not a mean, insensitive, uncaring human being..I promise. : )

So, now I'll ask for all my wonderful prayer warrior friends to help me pray for Mr. Mom's speedy recovery!

Pray for patience for me! hee hee

Love ya!!!

Bird Dog?

2009-01-08T11:53:00.002-05:00

We traveled to South Carolina last week to visit some very good friends. The Davisix! Sounds like an intro for a stage show! LOL! I'll have more pics later but I wanted to show you their ferocious bird dog Syd. Huh? I'm thinkin he's a little spoiled and that he's forgotten all about birds! He's so loveable! BEWARE BIRDS...that is if he remembers the look and the smell of birds...hee hee

P.S. Syd left a note for Daddy on the fridge while we were there...It said

Dear Dad

Birds are for cats.

Love Syd

Splat!

2008-12-31T21:54:00.002-05:00

I gotta look at this for how long????

Ugh....we are on our way to South Carolina to visit my girl Ang! We are now in Tennessee, almost to Ashville!

Word Filled Wednesday

2008-12-31T12:14:00.006-05:00

Philippians 3:13-14
No, dear brothers and sisters, I am still not all I should be, but I am focusing all my energies on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, I strain to reach the end of the race and receive the prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us up to heaven.

May God make your year a happy one!

Not by shielding you from all sorrows and pain,
But by strengthening you to bear it, as it comes;
Not by making your path easy,
But by making you sturdy to travel any path;
Not by taking hardships from you,
But by taking fear from your heart;
Not by granting you unbroken sunshine,
But by keeping your face bright, even in the shadows;
Not by making your life always pleasant,
But by showing you when people and their causes need you most,
and by making you anxious to be there to help.
God’s love, peace, hope and joy to you for the year ahead

I wish you all a
Happy New Year!

Christmas Photos

2008-12-30T12:44:00.003-05:00

Well, I decided I had better post some Christmas pictures before we head into the New Year. There might be someone out there interested in my family photos! I know you are out there!

First, we'll start with the annual begging of the treats in the kitchen. They act like they are starved to death! Poor mistreated pooches...Pop's girls...Ava & Ellie.

Opening the beloved Ipod docks at Pops...what an awesome Grandpa!!!

Grandma giving me "the look". Why am I always in trouble?!

How did this get in here? What's this got to do with Christmas?!

These were hanging in my friend Miranda's house and I thought they were so cool!

Cookies that we baked for Santa, me, the kids, me and others....So? I ate a few cookies!

BIL and his DaddyO...

Some of the youngin's..Jake you need a haircut dude!

She was either yelling at someone or excited...LOL!

Grandparents opening a gift....I love them...

And why can't any of us take normal pictures....goofballs!

I know there's more family photos but I don't want to bore you. Plus I'm not in ONE picture this year!!! What is that about???? I'll leave you with a few random pictures. I know you all had a wonderfully Merry Christmas and I'm so happy about that! (I caught up on your blogs..finally!)

This is my tree topper...

Have a wonderful afternoon! {{Hugs}}