Every Mountain you Climb are Memories You Treasure

Help....

2011-01-04T11:36:00.000-06:00

I recently updated our Christmas Card to my blog, now I've got this photo bucket scroll that won't go away!! It's starting to frustrate me, how can I fix this. I know you make mistakes in life to learn from them but I've only learned not to share anything from shutterfly to my blog and I want to learn how to get this fixed....UGH!!! Can anyone help me figure this out? Pleeeaaaasee!

Suprise....yes Baby O. # 3 on the way!!!

2011-01-03T14:40:00.010-06:00

What a privilege.....Matt and I are having our 3rd child in July!! I can't believe after all the years of trying for Kaelyn, #3 came out of nowhere. We are so very excited to become parents again the smiles are hard to keep off of our faces. God has a bigger and better plan for me, yaaaa!!!

Meet: GUMMY BEAR

Due Date: July 1, 2011

Caleb is thrilled to be a Big Bro again and for Kaelyn, well she will be happy about having a playmate for life now. Caleb couldn't wait to tell the family, he is such a great BIG BROTHER!! He is very concerned about how I feel day to day and is eager to find out what we're having. He wants a girl so she and Kaelyn will play together and leave his things alone. I think he wants another little sister because he loves playing the "protector".

We are now 14 weeks and barely past the 1st trimester which is great, a lot less to worry about and I'm finally feeling human again. This was by far the hardest pregnancy so far when it came to not feeling well.

I look forward to updating you in the near future!!!

A Good Day

2010-02-24T11:30:00.007-06:00

Today is the first day in a long time that I woke up feeling good about life. I usually have thoughts stirring around in my head of sorrow and pain for the loss of Tommy.

When I woke up this morning, nothing went wrong and everything just flowed together.....no bumps. The best part of my day by far was the moment my children woke up, they both had huge smiles for me that warmed my heart.

Whatever it is about today, I hope stays w/ me. The days were starting to get so long and tiring, I wasn't sure how much longer I could deal w/ them. There is still much I don't understand, but slowly I'm realizing; "It's not for me to understand." The comfort is coming from my family and especially my rock of a husband.

Dear Tommy,

I will forever think of you everyday. I still have all the woulda' coulda' shoulda's in the back of my mind. I wish I could hug you one more time, I wish I could hear your quiet humble "huhu" laugh again, I wish I could hear your advice on a problem or situation of mine again, I wish I could see your one of a kind smile again, I wish you could tell me "See ya" just one more time. I wish everyday for one more day w/ you. You were a perfect example of a good, honest, hardworking, family man. I'm so proud to have called you my brother. I know one day I will see you again knowing you'll greet me w/ your beautiful smile and your Dallas Cowboys cap :-) Until this day I ask that you watch over our family and guide us through this trying time. Please keep giving us signs that your w/ us, we need to know your here. I love you and miss you so much.

Your sister,

Wendy

A poem for Tommy:

2010-02-17T14:52:00.005-06:00

I Have Rested As Your Guest

I have rested as your guest
under an old oak tree,

Been wakened from my dreams
by a buzzing bumblebee.

I’ve watched your brilliant sunsets
through the heat of mid-July,

And seemed a little closer
to your infinite blue sky.

I’ve seen the maples turning
glowing in the sun,

And walked upon a carpet of gold
laid down for everyone.

I’ve seen the blinking fireflies
under your stars shining bright,

And listened to the spring peepers
singing a lullaby at night.

As I smell your soil so sweet
I thank you, as your guest,

For giving substance to my dreams
While in your arms I rest.

By Sharon Lamar

Lent has officially begun

2010-02-17T11:24:00.003-06:00

Today begins our Lenton Season. Ash Wednesday marks the first day, or the start of the season of Lent, which begins 40 days prior to Easter (Sundays are not included in the count).
Lent is a time when many Christians prepare for Easter by observing a period of fasting, repentance, moderation and spiritual discipline. During some Ash Wednesday services, the minister will lightly rub the sign of the cross with ashes onto the foreheads of worshipers.

This year I've decided to give up drinking soda. Yes, this is very difficult for me. Lately I've gotten on a Mountain Dew kick and I can't stop. Hopefully quiting cold turkey won't be as difficult as I'm thinking.

Blue Streaks.....

2010-02-13T10:44:00.005-06:00

This afternoon we leave for Carlyle, IL to attend the last Tournament of the 2009-10 Teutopolis Blue Streaks basketball season. In fact, Sunday is the last game period. If the boys win today then they will play twice tomorrow but if they lose (and they won't) then they will play again later this evening instead of any tomorrow.

They weren't able to have any practices this week due to conflicting schedules. The biggest was the 7th grade boys went to State and WON!! Congrats boys! Austin, I heard you played a heck of a game.

Good Luck this weekend Blue Streaks, even though I know you won't need luck! We look forward to the games.

Caleb, we hope to see your offense explodes and your defense destructs there game plan. GRRRR.....get em

Card with a message

2010-02-13T08:23:00.003-06:00

Throughout the past couple of weeks we've received a lot of sympathy cards from family and friends that were all very touching. With this, just yesterday we received another card that just spoke to me. I wanted to share it because I could see Tommy saying this to our family.

A Note from Heaven

If I could write from Heaven,

this is what I'd say,

Please don't miss me too much,

I'm with you throughout your day.

You may not see or hear me,

but if you're quiet and still,

You may just feel my presence;

because, in Heaven, there is free will.

Don't worry for the day,

it will come and go as planned,

Enjoy each moment you are given,

keep worry from your hand.

Keep sorrow to a minimum;

for if Heaven you could see,

You'd know I'm safe and happy,

I did not cease to be.

Moments in time are brief,

until we'll be together again,

as Eternity lasts forever,

our lives, they have no end.

Thank you Aunt Sammy. This was very inspirational. I know Tommy will ALWAYS be with us. He's always been our little protector and now he's our Guardian Angel who one day we shall see again.

New Day, New Thoughts

2010-02-10T12:17:00.006-06:00

Today started off a lot better than yesterday did. I couldn't seem to get Tommy off my mind so in hopes of hurting a little less I thought I'd write. Today I feel the need to write again. I have so many people in my life I can count on unfortunately it's now less one.

My mom and dad made dinner for me last night and kept me in good company for a few hours after work. My dad bought some yummy rope sausage from the locker....mmmm. I've been so busy with the in-laws lately that I think I really needed some of my mom and dad time. It was nice to sit and talk, laugh, and cry with them. I missed them. I miss Tommy! Hopefully after getting out all my feelings last night my heart can start to heal. I know that's what Tommy would want, I'm going to give it my best from now on. I'm not guaranteeing no more tears but I am guaranteeing a happier more functioning me.

Here's To Happier Days Ahead.............Tommy will live on in my memories and always in my heart.

Thinking of Tommy

2010-02-05T16:46:00.018-06:00

To my dearest family....Some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, I arrived ok.
I'm writing this from heaven, here I dwell with God above.
Here there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.

Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon, and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said " I welcome you."

It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you
were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly, you are part of my plan.
There is so much we have to do to help our mortal man.

God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.

When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years,
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.

I wish I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now than I ever was before.

There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too....
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.

If you can help somebody who's is in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night....."My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
Knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.

So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When your walking down the street and you've got me on your mind,
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.

And when it's time for you to go....from that body to be free,
remember your not going.....your coming here to me.

Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
Copyright 1998-2010

Can't stop thinking about you Tommy. I found this poem on the Effingham Daily News Obituary guest book. Of course it made me cry. I can see you saying this to us to help comfort our hearts and minds.

I'm terrible at grieving and I don't think I'll ever understand why. You were so special to me. I watched you grow from that little "baby belly" boy to a very handsome man. You had such a heartfelt attitude about everything, your smile brightened my day, your laugh was one of a kind, and your love for family unstoppable. I know Caleb loved spending time with you whenever possible. Whether it was basketball on the driveway, darts in the basement, or just roughhousing at family get togethers you always were a terrific uncle. It is unfortunate that Kaelyn didn't get to spend much time with you. However, in her short 3 months of entering this world she was able to teach you that babies aren't breakable. I will cherish every picture I have of the kids and you. They will always know there Uncle Tommy will be in there hearts forever.

Tommy, there wasn't anything we couldn't count on you for. You were one of the most reliable and hardworking people I know. I think Matt had a ton of nicknames for you but the one that will stick with me forever was "It's Howdie Dutie Time". He told me how the name started and I must say 'Only your brother could come up with something like that'. "I'll Decide", something else your brother influenced you on. I always laughed with you two. Now, who is he going to decide with?!

I know the pain will end one day. All of our happy memories, will help with the closure of losing you. However, for now all I have is the knot in my throat, tears in my eyes, and a huge hole in my heart knowing that I never got to say goodbye or tell you how much you meant to me. I always just assumed I had many many years ahead to show you and to tell you how much I loved you. Now that your gone I can only pray that you knew you meant the world to me. I'm continuously asking God, Why!? Why you, Why so young, Why now!? I'll never understand why God always takes the VERY BEST!

Until we meet again Tommy, I will always and forever hold you close to my heart. I'll be thinking of you daily and praying that you'll visit me in my dreams with that onery grin and one of a kind laugh. Thank you for being in my life and showing me what life is all about. Taking most everything with a grain of salt and not sweating the "small stuff". I'm sure Heaven is even brighter now with your smile. You're a wonderful person Tommy, see you on the otherside.

I Love You Tommy!!!

House full of sickies

2010-01-23T11:01:00.003-06:00

What a rough week in the Ordner household. Everyone but myself has come down w/ an illness of some kind. UGH!!!! Just call me Nurse Wendy.

Matt has been sick w/ something since our beautiful little girl was born. Yes, since the end of October. WTH!! He is usually sick in the winter but usually only 2-3 wks, not 2-3 months. Now he's come down w/ a sinus infection.

Caleb came home from school on Thursday afternoon w/ a sore throat and slight fever. Stayed home from school again yesterday w/ body aches, fever, sore throat, and terrible cough. This morning he had a bball game scheduled at 8:15 in which he wasn't up to playing since his fever was 102.1 and throat was very sore. Matt called and made an appt w/ the dr for both him and Caleb. I'm betting Caleb has Strep Throat. Poor kid!

Our little Kaelyn has had a nasty cold since last sunday. Nasty congestion and cough. Since she is so little its so hard to treat her. Dr. said lungs are clear and ears look good, she just has the case of "Daycare Respiratory Cold". She got this after only one wk at daycare. Doc said it should only last around a week. We did expect it, but we were happy it took 11wks before she caught a bug since she was born right in the middle of flu season.

Hopefully the Ordner sickies will be better soon. Most importantly, I hope they haven't felt the need to share these ickies w/ me. Wish me luck :-)

Happy 26th Anniversary Mom and Dad

2009-09-17T12:17:00.002-05:00

Even though my mom just got out of the hospital in Springfield I hope her day gets nothing but better from this point on. Hopefully dad can pamper her ever step of today. Wishing you both a wonderful day together today and always! Love you!

Happy Anniversary!!!

St. Agony Strikes Again!!!

2009-09-16T08:48:00.005-05:00

At this very moment my mother is in emergency surgery on her bowel. Over the weekend she was struck w/ an overwhelming stomach pain. It hurt for her to even breath. So dad took her to St. Anthony Hospital in Effingham where they ran up some blood work and gave her some zantac and nausea medication. Which seem to work at the moment, then they decided to run some x-rays of her abdomen.

In the x-rays, they of course found nothing. No problems in her stomach at all!! They didn't even feel on her stomach to find her sensitive points - NOTHING! Then they sent her home.

At home she seemed to be better but still having a little abdominal discomfort. They gave her quite a bit of pain medication before she left the hospital so she thought she was doing good. However, as the time seemed to pass and the meds wore off the discomfort started creeping back. She was able to eat but not much and for her not much is bad anymore. The pain still continued....

Finally on Monday she called her specialist in Springfield who immediately ask her if they ran this test or that test and her response was always no. All they did were x-rays. Her specialist was furious and wanted to see her right away. So Tuesday afternoon she and dad headed up to Springfield where she was taken in for testing and they quickly found out what her problem has been all along. A twisted bowel!!!!!!!!!!!

Yes, St. Anthony Memorial Hospital ER completely MISDIAGNOSED my mother!!!!! So now we found out that her bowel was 180 degrees twisted and if she wouldn't have questioned Effy ER part of her bowel could have died and needed to be removed. Which would have been even more devastating!

The good thing of all this is my mom is now fixed. I just got a call from dad and her surgery went great and since they did it orthoscopically she may even be able to come home late this afternoon. Somedays I feel if it wasn't for bad luck our family wouldn't have any luck at all. Hopefully now this will all be behind us and mom's going to be her spunky, bubbly self again.

No thanks to ST. AGONY HOSPITAL

Bed Rest Scare

2009-09-15T13:00:00.003-05:00

Today was just supposed to be another routine visit. At this point I'm seeing the doctor every two weeks till week 34. We are currently at wk 32 and I thought so far so good. Doctor had other thoughts on his mind.

We had our regular visit; hi - how are ya - how's everything going - let's listen to her heartbeat. As soon as I mentioned that my contractions seem to happen sporadically but sometime so hard their quite painful and asked if the baby can bruise you from the inside out he quickly listened to her heartbeat and ordered a sonogram. They always seem to rush you in and out of every appt since there are so many others after you I really didn't have time to ask if everything was ok or if I should be concerned.

So after waiting over an hour for the sono they called me back. Denise did my sono today and it wasn't like normal. Ya know, lets get some pix of the baby and check out her size. First, it was questions in regard to how I've been feeling and if I knew why doctor ordered the sono today. Well of course my red flag when up and my heartbeat became more rapid. I was nervous and alone. Matt was working and couldn't break free last minute and my mom had to run her kindergarten route. I was alone and very uncertain on the news I was about to get.

They did all the measurements on Blueberry and the placenta. They did the measurements of blood flow and amniotic fluid. They checked her heart rate, which was 139 bpm. Denise said this was fine and she was probably sleeping which is why it was a little lower today. Everything seemed to be normal, then I relaxed a bit but I still had my guard up. So after fighting w/ Blueberry to give us a good facial shot, which we had no luck at, she gave me the news that they had to check me vaginally to see if my cervix was shortening up any, which is a result in having strong, consistent contractions like I have been lately. I asked her what it meant if it had, Denise informed me that doc would typically put me on bed rest for a few weeks. Panic struck at that moment!!! I wouldn't be a very good bed rest candidate at all!!

Denise was very prompt about the results of her measurements and everything was normal. What a relief! I am now to limit myself and what I do. I'm not on bed rest but I need to act like I'm pregnant and not like I'm running a marathon anymore. Be aware of my body. Pamper myself, and the most difficult part of all for me; Ask for help! UGH!!!

I immediately called my hubby and told him the good news that Blueberry was healthy and NO bed rest for me and he immediately laid the law down on my do's and don'ts. I love getting lectured at my age.

So anyway, that's my story of the Bed Rest Scare. Hopefully that will be the last time those words are ever spoken again throughout our pregnancy.

Hiccups are a wonderful thing.

2009-09-12T10:03:00.003-05:00

I've been waiting and waiting for little Blueberry to have hiccups and finally last weekend she did. They were very distinguishable too. I was very worried that she may not even have them since it was getting so late in the pregnancy and they usually start up with then around 6 months, noticeably. They say that hiccups help develope their lungs. Caleb had them all the time and was for the most part and still is a very healthy child. I was afraid if she didn't have them that she could have some complications with her lungs. Even though my doctor insisted she would be fine. I'm just a worry wart, but now at least I know her lungs are working good. I can also tell that she is still head down from where the hiccups are most felt.

Well we've made it to week 32 and are feeling good. So we only have between 5-7 wks left. So hard to believe she is almost here to meet us. The excitement is filling in the family.

I want my sunshine back

2009-09-08T15:21:00.004-05:00

Do you ever just have a time where you've lost your sunshine. Like life just isn't the same. Somewhere in the last week I've lost my sunshine and frankly I'm starting to worry that I'm not doing something right to get it back. I try to stay strong, enthusiastic, and reassuring but nothing seems to be working. Finally today I called in a couple of reinforcements to help my sunshine find its way back to me. I hope time is all that is required to mend my sunshine, he shows his smiling sweet face at me again soon.

I miss my LITTLE SUNSHINE and I want you back.

I'm Up & Many thing on my mind

2009-09-05T06:10:00.004-05:00

Here it is 6 am and I can't fall back to sleep and I don't have to work today. I woke up at 5:54 am in the same spot as I was when I fell asleep at 10 pm. Surprisingly, I didn't have a lower backache or neck ache from not moving a muscle all night.

I was shocked, after waking up completely, noticing how dark it was outside. I'm used to getting up this early don't recall having to turn on lights to see what I'm doing. I guess fall is just around the corner.

Today Matt and Caleb are heading out to deer camp to hunt some squirrel. I loved Caleb's reaction to Matt when he told them their Saturday agenda. His eyes lit up and the smile went from ear to ear. Yes, a KODAK moment, but this silly mom left her camera in the car and had no shoes on to go get it. So this will have to be a memory I hold only to myself.

Caleb is serving in mass this evening and I think he will have an audience of family to support him once again. His Aunt Jeannie and Uncle Jim are coming for the first time plus my mom and dad and maybe his Tante' and Matt's family minus a couple. He is so lucky and at 10 probably doesn't know how much he is loved by so many people.

After mass Matt's family will be heading over to our house to start celebrating his mom and dad's 38th wedding anniversary. We look forward to having everyone and sharing in the memories of years flown by.

Well I better get of the computer and start some cleaning, laundry, organizing, ect. since I will have no time later on.

Hope everyone has a great Labor Day weeekend!!!

Finally.....

2009-09-04T15:52:00.004-05:00

Well after a long talk and yes, even a few arguments, Matt and I finally decided to take the Lamaze classes at our local hospital. A lot of thought went into this decision, and we finally got to an understanding with each other that above all it would be a close "bonding" time, if you will, only revolving around us and Blueberry. No remodeling, no painting, no decorating the baby's room, no deciding on her name, no figuring out who her God Parents are going to be, just us. Just us preparing for our little girl. Maybe learning a few tips on how to make sure Caleb never feels left out of anything.

I wanted to make sure that Matt knew what he is walking into. I want him to know that I will turn from Dr. Jeckle to Mr. Hyde in a matter of 3.2 seconds. I want him to know signs that I may need his help or encouragement without me telling him what to do. The last thing I want that day is unorganized chaos or panic or even passing out. For the hours I'm in labor the world will revolve around me and what I need to ease the pain.

So hopefully with our decision we will lead to a chaos free in the delivery room in November. Now with everything mostly in place, Matt and I can just sit back relax, cheer on Caleb in his soccer season, and make a few final decision on Blueberry's behalf.

I really am looking for to the next two months of our pregnancy. We've made it to 31 weeks today, hopefully we at least make it to 37 weeks. That would make Blueberry's birthday October 16th. She is due November 8th. I wonder how close to her due date she'll make her grand entrance? Regardless, we'll be ready!

Who would have thought...

2009-08-31T10:47:00.003-05:00

Why is it when a woman goes on a diet one of the first things she looses are her boobs and when women get pregnant one of the first things to get bigger are there boobs?!

Well I must have been under great denial in this pregnancy about my boobs. I was a 34B when I got pregnant since I lost all that weight two summers ago. After battling with fall out recently my mom suggested I try a bigger size. I thought, "No way, I haven't got big enough to fit in a C". So mom and I did the bra thing and I was SHOCKED to find that I was smashing my boobs into a 34B for the last 5 months and come to find out I'm in a 34D. Talk about flabergasted! I've never been in a D in my life. They don't look like a D but according to the bras I have now, it's true.

I asked my husband if he had any idea what size bra I was wearing and right off the top he said "D" with a huge smile on face. I couldn't believe he knew. I must have been in such denial it's not funny. Thankfully I'm much more comfortable and the twins seems happier too :-)

LONG Night, Nervous Times

2009-08-29T08:14:00.006-05:00

Yesterday was an exceptionally bad day. I don't know why but I felt like crap all day. Yes, this was baby related and it scared me a little. Even though I would never let Matt know that.

All day yesterday I was having what I thought were Braxton Hicks contractions. I mean ALL DAY!!! I really never started worrying about the until about 3 pm. It was just a normal thing to happen to every prego lady. Unfortunately, from 3 pm on there seemed to be something different with each one. They were more sharp, painful, and it felt like Blueberry was sitting right on my my pelvic bone.

I never timed them, and I'm not sure why. Maybe because I didn't want to be an over-reacting mother and call my doc and bother him on a weekend for nothing or it could have been that I didn't want to accept the "possibility" of preterm labor. I don't know, either way I was in partial denial.

When I got home I started doing some laundry and after a couple of trips up and down the stairs I got strict orders from my wonderful, supportive, but definitely over protective hubby, to go and lay down for a while and get off my feet. Of course, even after my arguing with him I was banished to my room for a while.

After about an hour of laying down (still contracting) I got up to try to walk it off. I thought maybe I was just being too lazy and some exercises/movement would do some good. Wrong....I made it as far as the kitchen and doubled over with another sharp contraction. Luckily Caleb was there for moral support and tried to massage my back...he's so sweet to me. After that moment Matt told me I needed to start monitoring my contractions.

What I found out was that my contractions were coming every 5 minutes and lasting a minute each. I was told that if contractions went on for and hour straight then labor was starting. Now I was getting a lot more nervous. We are only at 30 wks and have at least 7 - 10 wks to go. She is way to little to come now. Fortunately, this only went on for 45 min and then just completely stopped so no phone call to the doc or trip to the ER was needed. Matt couldn't believe how hard my stomach was getting. He's really not going to know what to think when we go in to have her.

Needless to say I think I'm going to listen to my body a little more now. I hope with all the contractions I had yesterday they didn't hurt little Blueberry. She seemed to stay very active all day so I'm going to pray she is still fine. She's even moving around a little this morning. I think I'll stay down the rest of the weekend besides going to church. I have a lot to pray for.

Is it just my hormones?

2009-08-26T10:03:00.002-05:00

You know I'm very weight conscious and in all reality I'm very hard on myself prego or not. Today I had a moment where I was talking w/ my boss out in our shop about a customers concern when I hear from the side "Man your getting fat!" from an employee we just hired two weeks ago.

I think he knew by the look on my face I was less than thrilled by his comment. You know, I am pretty open minded, and yes I work in a shop full of guys and yes were all pretty close and joke around a lot. However, coming from a guy I barely know this comment made smoke roll out of my ears.

I don't know if I'm overreacting a simple comment or maybe my hormones are just taking over, but this comment has put my mood down and I'm a little bummed out.

Damn New Guy!!!

Funny Moment

2009-08-24T10:33:00.003-05:00

Matt, Caleb, and I went shopping at the Baby Depot this weekend. It was a fun family experience w/ lots of laughs.

Caleb really enjoys shopping for new items for Blueberry so when you get he and his father started, their like kids in a candy store. It's so cute! Yesterday was no different. Caleb did the scanning as Matt and I discussed necessities, he thought he was hot stuff too. There really wasn't a whole lot more for us to register for, just the minors at this point.

After all registration was finished, we did a little shopping. My favorite part! We ended up getting everything for the decor of her room. Such as: Sugar Plum pillows for her crib, the basket for her lotions and accessories, the Sugar Plum Butterflies for the wall, the Sugar Plum night light, Sugar Plum valances, and of course her Sugar Plum hamper. We also got her letters for her name to be spelled out on her wall. So the name will not be changed from this point on.

After shopping the necessities we HAD to do a little clothes shopping too. So we found a diaper bag and a few darling outfits. When we are ready to leave we found her headbands that I've not been able to find anywhere. So as we're standing there picking out the cutest ones Caleb turns to look at me and with all sincerity ask me,

Caleb: "What if Blueberry comes out BLACK?".

Me: Caleb, there is no possible way she could.

Caleb: But mom how do you know for sure.

Me: I just do, Why are you even asking?

Caleb: Mom look over there

So I turn to see and there was a white mommy with an adorable Black baby in her cart.

Caleb: See mom it can happen.

Me: Yes Caleb, it can happen, but it's not going to happen to us. I'll let your dad explain it to you later when we leave.

So upon leaving the Baby Depot Matt explained to him how there was no possibility of us bringing home a black baby girl :-)

I think this was the highlight of my day. A memory of innocence with Caleb that was purely from the heart and unintentionally bias. Children are a miracle from God and anyone that can't see that or appreciate it have serious mental issues.

Crib and Changing Table

2009-08-22T08:34:00.003-05:00

Last night my wonderful husband got home after having a not so good day and headed straight for Blueberry's room. He scoped it out as to where he was thinking the furniture would fit best and then headed to the attic to bring down her crib and changing table.

He had to put the crib together, of course, but with his great construction know how he had it all put together in 20 minutes or so. Thanks babe!! Now with the crib up and the changing table in place, I can start cleaning it all up today after work. Then we can start decorating her room!

Tomorrow we are heading to Baby Depot to shop for some decorations to help complete her room. I have a list of things to get but we'll have to see what we actually come home with.

I'm also hoping to get over to Old Navy and Baby Gap and Gap. I would like to look at more pretty girl clothes and also pamper my Little Man with a couple of new outfits before heading back to school Monday. His new school shoes, Nike Shox, came in the mail on Wednesday and he is just dying to be able to wear them all the time. He told me "Mom these are the coolest shoes you've ever gotten me!" It's so sweet and innocent yet sincere. He's my boy who will always melt my heart and know how to make me feel like a good mom.

Blueberry updates

2009-08-20T11:09:00.006-05:00

Yesterday was a very busy day for us. As you know the first thing to be done was the carpet laying in the baby's room. After they were finished I could tell it was going to look very good with the decor in the room. Once Matt vacuumed it last night and got all the shreds of carpet up knew it would be perfect for her room. It's so soft and bouncy to walk on, she is going to love it as much as we do. Now all that's left is the setting up and decorating. My kind of work! I can't wait till this weekend gets here. Here is a shot of the room till Saturday.

Blueberry's Room

We also had our Pix for Kicks ultrasound yesterday at 5pm. We got in for the appointment right away and Tori was our sonographer. My mom and Caleb were able to join us for this event and enjoyed every minute of it. I don't think my mom was able to whip the smile off her face the entire appointment. It tickled her to see my stomach twitch and bulge every time Blueberry moved :-)

Blueberry was still playing hard to get. We were only able to get two really good shots of her face the rest showed her hands and legs in the way. It was a relief to find out that she is no longer Breech. Joyce mentioned last Thursday, August 13th, that she was butt first and not to worry about it baby's usually turn on their own by 35-36 wks. Well, I'm pretty sure she turn the Tuesday evening, August 18th, (just 5 days later) I was very uncomfortable all night.

No matter what we are grateful to know that she is progressing well and looking healthy as a horse. She is definitely kicking and punching a whole lot harder now. Here are a couple of our best shots. Enjoy!!!!

Blueberry at 28 wks 4 days

Finally, and most importantly, we've finally chosen her name. This will not be known to anyone besides Matt, Caleb, and I until the day she is born. We feel this is one thing we can keep to ourselves to help make us feel a little closer when speaking to and about her in our home.

It's all coming together and I'm feeling really good about everything. I feel after yesterday everything will be on the downhill stretch for us :-)

Carpet is going in the baby's room today...yay!!!!

2009-08-19T09:25:00.003-05:00

Today is the day I've been waiting for since I knew we were prego. This morning at 7am Jason was at our house ready to lay the carpet in Blueberry's room. I've never been more excited to see someone show up at our house that early in the morning!

Now that the carpet is being done this means that come this weekend Matt, Caleb, and I will be busy bringing down our crib and changing table and setting up where I want everthing to go. Maybe I'll even be able to talk a shopping trip to Baby Depot too. There are still a few little odds and ends to pick up for her room there yet.

By my calculations we should have a whole month to just relax and prepare ourselves for little miss Blueberry's arrival. This should be plenty of time to visit the hospital, try to talk Matt into taking a labor and delivery class (wish me luck on that, he doesn't think he needs any help), signing up for Baptismal classes, and most importantly ~ PICKING OUT HER NAME!!!!!!!

Matt did spend all evening last night on Baby Center looking at every name possibility there was. I do think we have it narrowed down to three possibilities now though. So I do feel a lot less stressed about this now. However, no one will know what we've chosen until the day of her arrival. That is the one thing Matt, Caleb, and I are keeping to ourselves. So until that wonderful day we will all refer to her as "Blueberry".

A little better today.

2009-08-18T08:15:00.003-05:00

Today seems to have started off a little better for me. I didn't feel as groggy this morning as the last few. Hopefully the bigger dosage of meds are helping. When I'm up moving around getting done what needs to be done, it seems I'm like a buzzing bee, but once I sit down I feel a little more drained. Maybe once this new dosage is settle to my system things will be much better. It sucks to have to work when you feel this blah. It's hard to be nice to customers or even have the patience to to deal with co-workers.

I pray by Wednesday I am 100% up to par again. It isn't the best feeling in the world to be grumpy all day when all you feel is overly tired no matter how much sleep you get.

Levels down again :-(

2009-08-17T14:21:00.003-05:00

I should have know something wasn't quite right. All weekend I've just been very tired and yesterday it was up to complete exhaustion. I just chalked it up to being prego and not resting enough, my fault.

I got a phone call this afternoon from my dr. office with need to know news. My thyroid hasn't been working right since I got prego so they put me on a new med and told me that more than likely I would be on it for the rest of my life, YAY! Now my thyroid level isn't up to standard levels again and there going to up my dosage, YAY!! The only good thing out of this conversation was that hopefully I'll now have my energy lever boosted back to normal again. I'm too busy to be down on my energy. Not to mention, I'm very grumpy when I'm tired.

The nurse also told me that my iron level is still at a 10.4 and they want it at least at a 12. My iron level is always low and can be another cause of my exhaustion but really 10.4 is pretty normal for me. As long as the baby is getting what she needs I'm ok with a 10.4. I'm going to try to eat more salad, eggs, and raisins from this point on. I want to see if I can get a little higher for these last couple of months. Who knows since all these foods are "good for you" foods maybe I'll lose a couple of pounds.

Well, off to higher levels. I hope these meds work.

Caleb's Home!!!!

2009-08-17T09:06:00.003-05:00

Yay, my Caleb's home!!!! He finally made it around 9pm last night. I missed him sooo much! I only had maybe 3 phone calls from him the entire time he was gone, and one was just to tell me he was on his way home because I gave him STRICT orders to let me know when they started out since no one else bothered to keep me in the loop all week. I had to leave the responsibility up to my 10 year old. Sad isn't it. That's a whole nother story that will put me in a bad mood so I won't tredge that water.

By Saturday I was having major Caleb withdrawals!!! Fortunately, I was at my B-I-L & S-I-L's all afternoon and evening for our nephews b-day part. I was a good time w/ lots, lots, lots, of yummy food and good conversation. So it kept my mind free from wondering off to Caleb again, and again.

Sunday was a long day. I didn't have any energy to do hardly anything. I took a 2 hour nap and was absolutely dead to the world. We were having my Grandma Millie, Dad, and Aunt Judy over for dinner and thankfully I was feeling a little better to cook. By the end of the night after everyone had left I was doing my best when my little sunshine walked in the door and said "MOMMY!!!" and gave me a Huge Hug!

It was hard to even get up and come to work today knowing that he's back. I just want to spend all my time with him this week! So from 5:30 on tonight, he's mine!

28th Week...Beginning of 3rd Trimester

2009-08-14T12:25:00.006-05:00

Well, today marks a big day for us. We are welcoming the beginning of our third trimester. It's exciting and scary all in the same. I'm excited that she will be here in about 84 days or so. However, scared that even through all my planning something might have been missed or something will go wrong during labor. I'm sure these are all normal feelings but for me they can be a little overwhelming at times.

Yesterday we went in for our 28 week checkup and sonogram. Anytime they schedule a sono I get butterflies because it's just another opportunity to see our little Blueberry again. To ease our minds (ok, just my mind, cause I'm the worry wart) that everything is ok and she has 10 fingers and 10 toes and everything else is normal too. My M-I-L, Susan, even joined us for her 1st ever experience with a sonogram. It was a great memory to have. She just kept smiling right along side of her son the whole time. A true KODAK moment!

Unfortunately little miss Blueberry wasn't very cooperative with us. Right now Joyce (our favorite sonographer ever) told us she is breech but that it was ok for now and not to concern ourselves with it just yet. She will more than likely turn herself by the 36-37 wk. Blueberry kept playing little games and putting her hands in front of her face and blocking Joyce from getting a good picture of her. Joyce insured us that Blueberry still has plenty of room the move around but evidently she didn't want to be photographed. Joyce did tell us that she weighs about 2.7 lbs. and 14.5 in. Not bad I said. I still think she is going to be a big baby but Joyce said she didn't think so. We'll see.

The shot below is the best picture of her we were able to get. Remember it's not the best, but I still love it!

We were even able to see her sucking on her fingers. It was so precious. Even though it was so cute on the sono I really hope when she comes out she isn't a finger sucker, to me that is a hard habit to break. At least with a pacifier, you can cut the nipple off when the time comes and tell them it "broke". You can't do anything when they suck on their fingers. I'm not going to worry about it until that moment arises.

I will start going in for checkups every two weeks now and at 36 wks I'll start going every week. It's going by so fast! I feel like I just found out we were pregnant. She'll be here in no time :-)

Happy 4th Birthday Calvin!!!!

2009-08-13T08:00:00.003-05:00

Happy 4th Birthday

to our sweet nephew

Calvin!!!

We can't wait to help you celebrate your big day this saturday!

We hope you get everything you've been wanting.

Your Uncle Matt said he wanted to be in charge of your gift this time. Who knows what he's got up his sleeve.

Enjoy your day little man!

I'm sad....

2009-08-12T14:50:00.009-05:00

Even though we just got back from vacation with the Ordner's now Caleb felt it necessary to get back on the road with my mom, and grandmother and head up to Chicago.

He's going to be spending most of his time with his Tante', of course. I'm sure she has some fun things set up for them to do this weekend. Even if she didn't, I know they would have fun the pool at her apt complex.

My grandmother (aka: Bubba) decided to head off on this little adventure too. Not only are they going to be visiting with my sis but also my Uncle Al. Bub hasn't been up there for about a year or so and I think is really going to enjoy herself while she is there. Even though she HATES long drives, I think the well deserved family time will help her forget about that.

I gave Caleb strict orders when he left, to call me when he missed me. No matter how often it was, I wouldn't mind. Well he's been gone since noon and I haven't heard a word out of him yet. I actually had to call them to make sure they got on the road ok.

I know my week is going to be so long without him here with me. His smiles, his snuggles, his hugs are all things I need to make it through my days. I hope he has a great time but I also home this week flies by!!

New room complete!!!

2009-08-12T10:37:00.006-05:00

Finally after over a month and a half our basement room is complete! How exciting!!! Everything is set up and ready to go.

There were many hours of hard labor put into this investment and with some help from family and friends this mission is accomplished.

The room is perfect. It's just a little different having to go downstairs to use the computer now. That will just take a little getting used to. However, it sure is peaceful. The perfect thing for an office. I'm sure Caleb will be using the heck out of it in a few more years for research paper, reports, ect.

Now we are off to do some carpet shopping for the baby's room. Then decorations and all necessities for "Blueberry". This is when it's going to get exciting for me.

So in the end we would like to send a HUGE thank you out to the following helpers: Tom, Tommy, Chris, Nate, & Jason. If it wasn't for all of your help, Matt would still be burning his candle at both ends for quite a while longer.

Honey, I've said it before but I'll say it again. You are unbelievably talented in the construction world. You never cease to amaze me with your knowledge. Your a hard worker and always put family first. Thank you for all you do for us.

Vacation came and went

2009-08-11T11:05:00.008-05:00

Branson Trip 2009

On Wednesday, August 4th, Caleb and I headed of to start our Family Vacation to Branson, MO.

First stop was to pickup Tom, Sue, and Alicia from home. Then the 5 hour road trip began. But before we even made it to Tom and Sue's we were blessed with a nice rock chip in our windshield. Now we have one on each side to match. Thankfully our trip got better from this point though.

When we made it to Tom & Sue's I was stunned by all the stuff they had packed. I thought Caleb and I over packed until I pulled in there driveway and was stunned even more when I walked into their kitchen. Of course we weren't able to pack everything into our van and had to call for reinforcements. Luckily we were the first to leave and the others following could help us out. Thanks everyone!

Once we got to Branson it was a relief. Being almost seven months pregnant with only one stop in between really played a number on my lower back. Caleb was a trooper and took a nap and watched a few movies and never once asked the famous words "Are we there yet?" He's a good little traveler.

The Resort was very nice. They had a couple of pools, one which was indoor in case of bad weather. Plus a nice recreational room which entailed pool tables, ping pong, checkers and chess tables, a big screen t.v. with nice comfy furniture to lounge in while everyone else was playing, and finally a game room equipped with air hockey and many others. Caleb was very happy with all of this!

Matt & Tommy weren't able to join us until LATE Thursday evening because of work and heavy traffic. So on Friday we headed up to the main attractions and found a go-cart track that everyone would enjoy. I think Matt was the biggest kid of them all. Everyone had a great time there. Matt, Caleb, and Alicia all had nerve enough to try the Skycoaster. This was Caleb's first trip on something like this and Alicia wanted to tackle a fear of heights. Mission accomplished! They were raised 100 feet on their chest then dropped a whopping 70 foot free fall until the straps swung them up like a swing. All we heard were scream but all we saw were smiles and thumbs up gestures. Although Caleb seemed to be hanging on to his dad for dear life at first :-)

Afterward we went back for a few more go-cart rides and took a walk over to the Titantic Museum. It was full of lots of information and artifacts that were all very interesting but just wasn't what we all were expecting.

Then on Saturday we headed for the lake to do a little boating. Tom rented a pontoon boat for four hours of fun in the sun. I was a good time but I never got in the water so when the four hours were up I was definitely ready for dry land and A/C. Matt and Caleb and the rest of the family had a ball.

When evening fell we all got ready and headed off to the Landing te eat dinner. Everyone chose a Mexican restaurant but Caleb and I were ready for steak and potato's. Oh, well it was good and we had some leftovers because their plates were huge. After dinner there was no time for shopping and we headed back to the condo to get a good nights rest before checking out then next morning by 10am.

A great big Thank You goes out to my in-laws, Tom and Sue, for putting together this wonderful trip. We really appreciated the time with family. Hopefully we can look forward to them for years to come.

UGH....15lbs

2009-08-04T13:12:00.002-05:00

Let's face it, the scale is most woman's enemy. So far in my pregnancy I really haven't been too upset about the weight issue. I'm definetly small than I was when carrying our son Caleb, which is a huge accomplishment for me. I have noticed that with Blueberry, my hips immediatly popped out which in turn help my butt to get wider. Matt tells me I'm silly, but lets face is ladies, we know!!!

Well this morning I was curious as to where I was at with my prego weight and stepped on the scale. UGH...talk about starting off your day on the wrong note. I've hit my 15 lb mark. I feel like I shouldn't be that heavy yet. I really don't eat to far out of line. If I do Blueberry helps to make me regret it.

What is normal weight gain for 6 1/2 months? I wish there was a chart you could follow to see if your weight was right on or if you needed to worry about. You know a monthly progression chart like they have for the developement of your baby. I know not everyone is the same but there has to be some kind of average doesn't there? Blueberry is only around 2 lbs right now so I know the rest of it's not in my boobs.....lol

Just being a worry wart as usual. I'll just have to ask next week.

Busy Weekend

2009-08-03T13:16:00.004-05:00

This weekend went by too quickly. We were here, there, and everywhere. I wish the weekend could consist of 3 days instead of 2.

The weekend started out with me being at work at 7am til noon. That wasn't entirely terrible. I'm a morning person for the most part so getting up early isn't such a bad thing. Towards the ladder part working I started feeling not bad but definitely not good. So I was just moving a little slower than usual, but still ready to conquer tasks ahead.

After work, I headed off to the grocery store to p/u the necessities for the Branson trip this week. I am so looking forward to that! The store seems crazy now that they're remodeling and everything has been moved around. What should have taken me 15 min tops took me 30. Not a big deal it will get better soon. They have it looking very nice, much more modern looking.

Then I headed off to my Bub's house where I was picking up a pot of her homemade potato soup. Mind you I'm still feeling a little blah but it was still manageable. My Bub is the best cook ever. Something about her food just makes your mouth water(except liver, still can't hack that stuff). Love Grandma's house!!

On my way home all I could smell was that soup and of course the first thing I did after unloading groceries was eat a huge bowl of it. Talk about comfort food!! I had to call Bub and thank her for making such a scrumcious pot of soup and contributing to my absolute need for a nap! So all in all Saturday for me was shot for me, all I did the rest of the day was lay around. No cleaning for me.

Thankfully Sunday was a much better day. I woke up at 6:30 ate some oatmeal, toast and a banana then started the my day. I cleaned our entire house (except the baby's room, it's still a making in progress). What a workout! We're talking dusting, spot treating the living room carpet, vacuuming, sweeping, mopping, cleaning the bathroom, oh and doing all the laundry. After all that I had to treat myself to an ice cream cone (strawberry swirl) at Homewood grill. What a reward to myself. Then I headed off to my Bub's again and dropped of all the bowls and dishes we had acquired throughout the past weeks. After visiting w/ her for a while I headed home and finally after dinner decided I had just enough energy to go on my 2 mile walk.

After all is said and done I had a productive weekend and crashed hard Sunday night when I went to bed. This is why I wish weekends could be longer.

Almost complete

2009-07-31T07:51:00.006-05:00

Last night Matt finished painting the spare bedroom/office downstairs and now all that's left is laying the carpet and putting in the drop ceiling. I can't wait till this room is completely finished so we can finally get started on decorating Blueberry's room.

I keep telling Matt that I just feel like I can't help with anything because he's been dealing with construction (which he is amazing at) and I know absolutely nothing about it. The baby's room is right up my alley plus I'm going to love finalizing everything because that means she'll be here right around the corner.

I've made a list of all the things that Matt and I still need to get to decorate her room. Things like; The Sugar Plum trash can, table lamp, hamper, curtains, wall letters - to spell out her name, the receiving blanket, and a few butterfly throw pillows to decorate her bed. I can't wait to have everything in order. I guess they always say, "You save the best for last". Blueberry is definitely worth the wait as hard as it may be.

I haven't had a chance to upload the newest pictures of the new room yet. I'll be sure to show off a couple when I do. I love showing off my studly husbands talents ;-)

Tender Lullabies

2009-07-30T10:12:00.004-05:00

Last night I had to make a quick trip to Walmart that should have taken literally 5 minutes. Well, wouldn't you know that the school supply list is out and Caleb was with me so we had to shop for the stuff before it was all picked over.

So then once that was completed then I had to take a trip to the baby isle just to look around, again. It's so fun, especially when Caleb's with me :-) So while we were just "browsing" we found a cute lullaby CD from Fisher Price for just $10, so we had to buy it. Yes I did listen to every track and it was so sweet. Now I just need to burn it to my ipod and let baby Blueberry relax to the instrumental sounds of her 1st CD.

Now I'll just have to find some headphones that will fit my belly. The ones I had won't stretch enough. Watch out, Wide load comin through ;-)

Our trip to Chicago

2009-07-28T13:18:00.005-05:00

Well, we're back in action at home. All is back to normal again.

Over the weekend Caleb and I took our trip to Chicago to visit my sister, Jennifer. It's always fun for us to take a few days off and get some well deserved QT with her. She is a fantastic hostess and always has her little nephew's best interest at heart.

First, we went to a Gretchen Wilson concert on Friday night. Now I'm not an over-the-top fan of hers but she is a great entertainer that keeps her audience going. It was Caleb's first concert and even enjoyed it except for the fact that it kept on until well past 10:30 and believe it or not, he was exhausted and wouldn't leave my side. He actually fell asleep on the drive home, I know amazing right?!

Then on Saturday Jen took us shopping at a huge outlet mall. We tried to find Caleb a new pair of shoes without any success. Can you believe the NIKE outlet had no, none, zippo, shoes in his size!!!! Crazy right!?! He was so disappointed, he wanted a new pair of shocks, there's always Champaign :-) Then we stopped in Carter's, boy what a mistake. We all had a blast in there, even Caleb. Next time you see him and he acts like he's not ready for this baby or to even be a BIG brother he's fibbing. He had as much if not more fun in there shopping for Blueberry than I would have ever imagined. He kept saying to me, "We gotta get that!", "Ewe mom what about this", and so on the whole time we were there. I couldn't have been happier!

Later that evening my sis had gotten tickets to the Medieval Times show. Caleb was so excited. This was all about the knights, kings & queens, jousting, stunt horses, and of course eating your meal with no utensils!!! The meal was fantastic and huge! They served each person a bowl of soup, piece of garlic bread, HALF of a baked chicken, a big piece of BBQ rib, a half of a seasoned baked potato, and for desert a homemade apple turnover.....mmmmmmm! Needless to say we all a to go box to take home. This place was full of action for everyone, definitely more kiddie orientated though.

We rooted for the "Green Knight", and he was one tough mamajamma too. Until the end came and we found out that he kidnapped the prince and held him ransom. Of course he was slayed by a good knight and the Prince was saved to live happily ever after with his princess and the king could rest again.

Here is a couple of pix to share. Aren't our crowns AWESOME!!

Only 6.5 hrs to go

2009-07-23T08:31:00.002-05:00

On a lighter note today, at 3 pm today I will officially start my 4 day vacation. The best part about it is, it will be just Caleb and I!!!!!! Tonight we will be packing up to start our fun.

First thing tomorrow we have to head to the dr's office where I'll take my glucose test, fun, fun. He just loves going there with me....lol. Then after I get my sugar rush for the year we're headed to get something for breakfast, wherever Caleb wants to go, of course. Then we're darting off to the Amtrak station where we officially begin our vacation together.

We'll be taking the train to Chicago to visit Tante' and Aunt Elizabeth. I know Tante' has an eventful trip scheduled for her nephew that entails concerts and an evening of a knights dual. Capturing the knights of the medieval times fighting to the death for there kingdom or maiden. All revolving around children's interest and of course rate E for everyone. Following the play they will have a medieval meal where you eat w/ your fingers and use little to no manners. Doesn't this just scream adolescents ;-) Hopefully we will have enough time to get downtown to see Aunt Elizabeth and soon to be Uncle Bill. They are really busy moving right now so we hope to a least meet them for a meal somewhere.

Sounds like we're going to have a jam packed, fun-filled, sunshiny weekend. To be honest w/ you, I need it. I always look forward to spending time w/ Caleb and just the thought of this weekend plasters a cement smile on my face.

Let the countdown begin!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Heavy Heart

2009-07-22T10:13:00.007-05:00

Today is a very sad day and my heart lay heavy in my chest. No matter how prepared you try to make yourself for bad news, it doesn't make it any easier.

My heart goes out to the family,
for all the pain I know they're in.

Tears speak volumes,
as every minute shall pass.

Only time will heal,

with memories always there.

Thinking always and forever,
for our angel now in his care.

My Deepest Condolences,

Wendy

WHY!?!?

2009-07-21T14:31:00.005-05:00

Last night was a rough night for our family. Bad news late in the evening nearly broke my heart. There are some instances that you so badly want to pinch yourself and wake up from a nightmare that ends up to stay reality.

I have a wonderful friend, who is ALWAYS there for everyone else, that was told disturbing news yesterday. We all were hoping and praying for a better outcome but unfortunetly it led to a bitter reality check. You never know the reason of why things happen, but I'm so tired of them always happening to people I know that have a heart of gold.

So my ongoing question to bad news is:

WHY!?!?

Special Someone

2009-07-17T08:21:00.003-05:00

I want to take a minute and let someone know I'm praying for them. Things may seem rough right now but stay positive (as hard as this may be) and know that you have many people praying for the best.

You are a rock for others all the time, even in your hardest moments. So now let us return the favor. You need to sit back and relax, put your feet up, and take care of you and you alone. Let us handle the rest.

We love you and will do anything you need us to do, if you let us, SO LET US! It's your turn now.

(((((HUGS)))))

Sugar Plum

2009-07-16T11:17:00.008-05:00

Sugar Plum is the official name of the decor we'll be using in Princess Blueberry's room.

Matt and I went to Terre Haute on Tuesday evening and finally did a little baby shopping together. Let me tell you, it was a blast!!! Matt is like a little kid in a candy store. He's so excited with picking and choosing with everything. Too Cute.

We chose Sugar Plum because it had more of the purplie color in it than a pink. With the wall color being Coffee Rose it matches very well. I can't wait till we get the basement guest room finished so we can start on Blueberry's room again.

It was so nice to just get away and relax with Matt for a little while. He's been working non-stop in the basement adding on a new room. He works all day then comes home and is working all night. It doesn't help that he is an absolute perfectionist :-) I'm so grateful for him.

He's been working hard on building the new Guest/Computer room in the basement. I must say he is doing a great job. He continues to surprise me with his abilities as the years fly by. I knew he was the concrete king but I had no idea he knew how to build an entire room from scratch! It's looking great! Thanks for all your hard work honey, your the best!!!

Hopefully soon I will have some good pictures of both rooms so you can see all the remodeling that has been done to welcome our Little Princess Blueberry in a few months.

Coming along

2009-07-08T11:21:00.003-05:00

We've been working non-stop on the babies room this last week. It's so exciting and even more real. How is that possible?!?! Just when I think, OK this makes it real. Then the next thing happens and I think, NO, this make real. Crazy!!!

This past weekend Matt and I chose the color for her room. Which is called Coffee Rose. Kind of a purplie pinkie color. More purple than pink, depends how the sun shines in. Anyway, IT'S GIRLIE!!! Something I'm so not used to being used too.

We also cleaned out closets to make sure she has her very own just like Caleb. On the down side of that was I had to clean out both of Caleb's closets to make room for what Matt and I needed to store. So Caleb now has just one closet full of both summer and winter clothing. Yes, he was a little bummed because his closet was so packed full now. What he doesn't know is that I had to clean out his closets (Get rid of everything I haven't seen him wear in the last 6-8 months). Hopefully I won't have to ever tell him because it is now all at Catholic Charities.

Matt also thought it would be great to build a spare room / computer room downstairs. Even though the way he situated everything looks great and would pass comfortably as a spare room, he is not happy with that. Don't get me wrong, when he is finished it will be perfect, but I just hate seeing him run himself into the ground so badly. This is his busy time of year; working later, side jobs, weekly yard / garden work. His weekends are already few and far between. Plus now he has a deadline to get all the banging done on this new room by November.

Now that we have Princess Blueberry's room painted I can start on the decoration ideas. To me, that's the fun part! So let the fun begin. I have planned a trip up North to visit my sister and I'm sure she can show me a few great shops. I can't wait!!!

So all in all my weekends are filled with fun and memories and Matt's are unfortunately filled with work, work, work.

Thank you Honey, for all your hard work! You are my rock that holds this family together!!!!

May he finally rest

2009-07-07T16:37:00.005-05:00

For years now I have felt very uncertain about accusations that have been made upon Michael Jackson. I never quite understood the plastic surgery he had. Which in his eyes, better his appearance I'm sure. However, in my eyes I saw year by year the mutilation to his once idled self and a horribly beaten down, broken spirit. Another claim on M.J. was the awful charges that were brought out from children that he cared for.

I'll never know if he actually did what the children accused him of. Did it really happen or was it a ploy for parents to use their children to make it rich quick. We'll never know. I'll never understand all the trauma that he had done to his face. However, I do know one thing, he was truly a great performer and a humanitarian back in the day. He didn't earn the "King of Pop" for no reason.

No matter what my thoughts were about M.J. in the recent years, back in the 80's & early 90's he showed his fans a lot of sincerity and compassion. He was and will always be a pop legend from our era. May he finally be at peace from all judgements and accusations and dwell in the happiness of all his accomplishments in life.

R.I.P.

Michael Joseph Jackson

1958 - 2009

Finally a Win

2009-07-02T09:44:00.002-05:00

Our son, Caleb is on the same baseball team as last year, called THUNDER. Last year they all really seemed to click from the start and had a fairly good season. Very enjoyable to watch the kids work together and grow as a team.

This year it seems like the boys are struggling to pull it together. I'm not sure what happened but it is very noticeable. They have the same coaches, who are very good with teaching the boys and trying to keep up their confidence but again, something is not clicking with the team.

From the beginning of this years season I've referred to them as the 'Bad News Bears'. However, last night we played and finally won our first game of the season. Talk about exciting for both, the boys and their parents and family. Caleb played short-stop and his norm - third base and did it with absolute confidence. He was also focused enough to hit 2 triples in a row. Talk about a boy on cloud nine - THAT WAS CALEB!

Long story short, the boys are finally getting it together with just a handful of games left, but there getting it together. I couldn't be more proud of all the boys and yes of course, I give my little big man two thumbs up for growing in confidence and helping his team to their first win of the season.

Thunder - 11
Opposing Team - 3

Way to go THUNDER!

IT'S A GIRL!!!!!

2009-07-01T07:10:00.005-05:00

I know its been 2 weeks since the big news hit our family with a bang but I'm finally getting around to announcing it to the world.

Our Little Baby Blueberry is a GIRL!!!

Now our family will be complete. We've got our healthy, happy, and vibrant little big man Caleb. Now we'll finally get the beautiful baby girl that Caleb can protect throughout the years, being the awesome Big Brother he is going to be. She couldn't be more lucky than to have Caleb as her Big Brother.

I feel like the luckiest woman in the world. As a young girl my dream was to marry my Prince Charming (Matt) and live in our new home where we could add to our happiness with 2 children. Of course I wanted our boy first to be the protector and then a little girl to dress up and show off. My own Prince and Princess. Every little girls dream, and now I feel that we're are just weeks away from completing my childhood wish.

Nervous & Excited

2009-06-19T12:24:00.003-05:00

We've made it to our 20th week. Exciting isn't it?!?!

Today is the big for Matt , Caleb, and myself. Today is the day, with a little cooperation from within, we find out if Blueberry is a boy or a girl. We can't wait to know because we have to start on the nursery ASAP!! We have to pick out the "official" name. We also have to prepare Caleb for this wonderful bundle of joy, especially if it's a girl. So much to do and only 20 weeks to go, give or take a little.

Now for the nervous end of it. Not only are we finding out the sex of the baby but they will also find out if the baby is still healthy and vibrant. One thing I do know, is this baby moves quite a bit. So hopefully all is still good. I'm always paranoid, I don't think that will stop till the baby is here. Who am I joking, I'm still that way with Caleb.

So wish us luck on adventure this afternoon. I'll be holding by breath.....figuratively speaking.

Appt is at 2:40

Random Thoughts

2009-06-17T08:20:00.006-05:00

I sitting here at work thinking of several Random Thoughts that I'd like to share.

Today I woke up and I felt great!! When I say great I mean I felt refreshed, energized, happy, sort of what I assume a bear would feel like out of a its deep winter hibernation slumber minus its starvation factor ;-)
The sun is finally shining bright and rumor has it that we will be feeling its rays of warmth all day! It has been so rainy and miserable here lately I think our farmers should start planting rice instead of corn & beans.
Caleb is such a wonderful person. I just love his personality and enthusiasm. I wish I could bottle a little bit of his energy up and keep just for me. I know he will soon be going his separate ways with his friends instead of yours truly and that stings only a little now. But I now no matter what he will always be my little buddy.
Our Verizon (Can you hear me now? Good!) Dept always makes popcorn every morning. Now let me tell you I love that buttery, savory, mouth watering smell. However, today that smell is seriously making me nauseous!
Blueberry is being a gymnastic this morning. I'm talking flip flops, summer salts, cartwheels, back bins, ect. This baby goes hard and kicks/moves up a storm for two days then rest with minimal movement for a day or two then starts up the routine all over again. Needless to say, I'M LOVING EVERY MINUTE OF IT!!!
Caleb has a ball game this evening at the Church Diamond and all I can hope for is a challenging game. Our poor Thunder just can't seem to get it together this year. It's unfortunate because the boys on the team are good they just can't pull it together. It's so hard to watch them struggle. All the "helpful" advice we give Caleb just seems to frustrate him even more. What do we do. To give you an idea of how the team is working together all I need to say is watch the movie 'Bad News Bears' nothing seems to work to their advantage. Hopefully we can win a few games this season to help boost their self esteems. Good Luck Thunder!
Friday is the BIG day! Matt, Caleb, and I will hopefully be able to find out the sex of Blueberry. Talk about excited - well Matt and I anyway ;-) Caleb is praying for a boy. He's even chose a perfect name for a boy. Everyone who I talk to says we're having a girl. We'll just have to wait and see and share the exciting news with family on Friday.
This weekend is Father's Day weekend. Still not sure what the heck is going on for my F-I-L's Bday/Dad Day. This is all info that I need so I can plan my own Daddy-O's Day. I'm a planner and an organizer and let me tell you, THIS IS KILLING ME!!!!

Now I spoke about everything on my mind at this moment. I told you they were random thoughts nothing special. Just trying to clear my head and for now I think it may have worked. Till later, Have a great day!

So much on my mind....

2009-06-16T12:22:00.008-05:00

Where do I begin? So many things I need to get off my chest. Dealing w/ many different feelings. Feelings such as; sadness, anger, uncertainty, and yes even a little excitement.

This past weekend was a very drama filled weekend for our family. Things that couldn't have been controlled and things that absolutely should have been controlled.

I may never understand how God chooses his next angels. It lately seems to me that he takes so many that bring good to our lives. I know its not for me to understand and everyone has a certain purpose here on earth but why the unborn? As you know we're expecting and w/ that leaves many uncertain thoughts rolling around in your head. Am I doing all I can to ensure the good health of our unborn child? As a mother you constantly worry. You pray for the next kick or hiccup. You don't breath at your sono until you see your baby's heart is still beating!! That's just a good mom, I sure others can relate. Now since the recent loss in our family over the weekend I have more uncertainty in my heart than ever. I'm so afraid that something I can't prevent is going to happen. I can't get it out of my head. I wake up w/ it, I go to bed w/ it. I'm so careful to walk the straight and narrow. I call the Dr. w/ any questions. I've even recommended to my husband that we buy a fetal heart monitor to keep a closer eye on our baby for the next four months. Yes, I'm that paranoid. We've just worked so hard to have this wonderful addition to our family,I couldn't imagine my mental state of mind if anything happened.

I'm also concerned for someone very close to my heart. This person has been forced to handle a situation that is unfortunate for anyone to deal with anytime. The only thing I can do is stand by there side and help pull them through the rough waters that lay ahead.

The excitement that I'm looking forward to is knowing that by this Friday, with the baby's cooperation, we will learn the sex of our Blueberry! This is going to be a wonderful Fathers Day gift for Matt. We are planning on having the immediate family over afterwards to share the good news. Matt and I can't wait. Of course, Caleb is still hoping and praying for a baby brother. However, everyone that I see looks at me and says "I think your having a girl". I've even looked at the Chinese Calender and their results say we're having a girl. Whatever we are blessed with will be heartwarming all we pray for is its good health.

Now that my mind is a little more at ease I'll sound off. In a way I want this week to just fly by but I don't want to wish away the best moments of being pregnant. I pray that both the individuals get through the trying times with their heads held high and know that there are a lot of thoughts and prayers headed their way.

~ Family is the most important thing in life ~

Other things may change us,

but we start and end with FAMILY

~ UNKNOWN ~

It Finally Happened

2009-06-12T08:05:00.002-05:00

Everything in our pregnancy has pretty well been going by the book. I haven't anything to complain about. I haven't gained hardly any weight at all yet and that really makes me happy. I'm eating pretty healthy, I give into cravings for some sweets or fast food every once and a while. but for the most part I'm doing a good job.

Last night the most wonderful thing happen. Matt finally felt the baby kick!!! It was a very exciting moment for the both of us. Matt's exact words were "That was WILD"!!!! He has always told me that watching me get bigger and getting to feel the baby would make it "real" for him. Now it's "REAL".

Next week Friday will be our 20th week. The time has seemed to just fly by. I was hoping to just sit back and enjoy every part of being pregnant however sometimes I forget I'm even pregnant since I'm on the go constantly. Then when I have a few minutes to enjoy getting a belly, or have a craving, or even feel the baby kick or move around it's late and I'm tired and fall asleep. I think after we find out what we're having we'll (I'll) be able to relate and talk with it more. Be a little more personable.

The baby has been moving around for about 3wks now that I could feel. It's been kicking/punching for about a week and a half. That's what makes this so great, they don't hurt yet. Sitting hear at work and feeling the beautiful life growing inside of me. Something we've worked so hard to have, just saying "Hello, I'm here now". This makes me melt. I know it sounds weird but I find myself constantly staring at my stomach when I'm up walking around. I can't help it, it's just so incredible. I want to meet our Blueberry. I can't wait till we can put a name w/ it too, other than Blueberry.

I know all is going to be well now

2009-05-14T15:24:00.003-05:00

This whole baby thing has been quite a whirl wind for Caleb. Frankly, it broke my heart to see how concerned he was about being a BIG brother. I thought he would love the idea straight out the gate. Well, I now know, this was 100% wishful thinking on my part. Caleb has had nothing but my full attention for the last 10 years and after I thought about it our news probably scared the daylight out of him. I felt horrible about myself after the fact. I should have never thought he would share my excitement right away.

After his initial reaction we were sure to devote 110% of our time to Caleb. Make sure he knew this baby would never take his place in my heart. He's my first born, that will always be so special to me. We updated him on everyone of our OB appointments and kept him informed of every new sono pic. I felt like I was doing everything possible to make him comfortable in our new adjustments.

Finally, this morning while getting ready for work Caleb came in our room and offered to make our bed for me. I graciously accepted his offer. After he made our bed he came over to where I was standing and patted my belly (which I might add is definitely starting to protrude) and said with a smile, "Is that my baby in there?" At that point my heart was melted. I felt he finally accepted and looks forward to the baby. HE'S READY TO BE THAT BIG BROTHER!!!!

I couldn't be a happier person right now. My son accepts the upcoming happiness to our family. I have a wonderful husband who won't let me lift a finger, he's truly my Superman. My family is constantly checking in on me to make sure things are going well. My friends are spoiling me with smiles and excitement on a daily basis. What more could a pregnant girl want.

Happy Mother's Day

2009-05-09T08:37:00.004-05:00

Wishing all mother's a very Happy Mother's Day 2009. From one mother to another we know how much our children have blessed our lives.

I'm so grateful to have my sweet Caleb. He is the highlight to my life. He brings me smiles, he helped me find a love I didn't know 10 years ago that I was even capable of having. We, of course, have our every now and then mother-son trials but in the end he's tugging right at my heart strings. I guess what I'm trying to say is Caleb is my little sunshine. My constant ray of hope. No matter how bad a day I've had all I need is one word, smile, or glance from him and I'm relaxed again. I can't imagine a day in my life without him. I Love You Caleb!!

We also have a work in progress to be grateful, thankful, and anxious for. Otherwise known as: "Blueberry"

As you all know we are expecting another miracle for our family in November. We are so delighted to have another chance at parenthood. Even more excited to watch Caleb's excitement grow w/ us. As "Blueberry" gets bigger the wonder if its a boy or girl is fun to discuss of an evening. We can hardly wait to me "Blueberry". We don't care what the sex of the baby is just pray for a safe delivery and a healthy "Blueberry".

Being a mother is the most exciting thing in my life. Children are little miracles of God and I feel so blessed to have the opportunity of being a mother!

Happy Mother's Day!

We've made it!

2009-05-08T10:02:00.003-05:00

Today is a day to celebrate! Matt and I have made it to our 2nd trimester. I know this may not seem big to most but for us it's a huge milestone. We have tried so hard and so long for this beautiful time and now I feel like we can sit back and enjoy the rest of this time.

Caleb is really coming around and showing signs of how good of a big brother he is going to be. He is showing concern for everything I do to make sure I'm not overdoing anything. He has told us that he wants to be at the sono when they inform us of the sex of the baby. He still thinks the only thing we should bring home is a boy though. I don't think that's ever going to change. The good thing is, if we are informed we're having a girl then we have around 20 weeks to get him ready for her :-) He'll do just fine either way. He's my wonderful little man!

Thank You

2009-04-30T10:09:00.005-05:00

I want to say Thank You to everyone for all your sweet comments and especially those who have taken the time to send us cards.

We really appreciate all the kind words and support. We have been wanting this little edition for our family for quite some time now. It's wonderful to know we have great friends and family that will be with us every step of the way!

I plan on updating everyone often. So often you'll probably get tired of my proud momma moments. So I'll just say sorry now to everyone for being annoying.

Everything is going great!! Tomorrow we will hit our 13 week point w/ just 1 more week before gliding into our 2nd Trimester. Can you believe how fast time flies? I want this to last forever, we tried too long and too hard for it to be over so quickly.

I luckily haven't gained ANY weight yet. Caleb even looked at me this morning after I got dressed for work and said "Mom, you don't even look fat yet." I had to laugh so hard because all who know Caleb he is the sweetest however the most crucially honest little man you'll ever meet. If I were to ask him if I looked fat in something, he would tell me with no uncertainty in his voice, YES!! if that were the case. I so respect that of him. On the flip side he lets me know when I'm "One Hot Momma" too. He is just my little companion.

I am fearing that in the 2nd Trimester I will gain a ton of weight. Matt was a big baby 8-9lbs. Caleb was only 7lbs 12oz and he was very hard to push out. I was only 6-7lbs. I'm petrified that this baby will be at least 8 1/2 lbs and I'm going to struggle carrying and pushing out.

Now that you know our weights, what do you think our baby will weigh at delivery? I am interested to know what everyones thoughts are on this. I think it would give my family some good conversations and possibly some good laughs.

Let me know what your thinking :-) Don't scare me too much!

Well, The time has come.....

2009-04-22T21:15:00.007-05:00

OK, the time has come. Thankfully to my wonderful S-I-L Christina who helped me with the final "technical" details tonight. Your the best C!!!

This announcement has been a work in progress for the last few years and I'm very excited to let it out!

To all our family and friends I want to share with you our proud family moment..........in another six months you'll get to meet him or her yourself but for now we have photos!

Please meet our newest addition: "Blueberry"

Matt and I are expecting our 2nd child to our family. We couldn't be more proud!!! We've work so very hard to accomplish this, it's truly our 2nd miracle in life......1st and foremost will always be our son Caleb.

Caleb took this news a little harder than we'd hoped but now that quite a few weeks have gone by and we've kept him informed about everything going on he seems to really be coming around to being the BIG BROTHER :-) It was a lot for my little 10 year old to take in after having mom and dad to himself for so long. All his emotions were expected, he's only human. He'll always be my little man!

Anyway, thanks for your patience while I worked out all my computer faults to get these pictures scan to our computer. Thanks again to Christina for keeping me from pulling my hair out, I was so ready to tell the world but didn't have everything ready to make this announcement complete.

Our due date is tentatively November the 8th. Yes, this will also be our 6th year wedding anniversary. What a wonderful gift!!!

Just a little ending note. No matter how bad you think things are getting for you, or you just don't feel strong enough to carry all the burdens and difficulties in life; Remember God will never give you more than he knows you can handle. I'm a firm believer in this. Always count in the Lord to help you through everything.

In ending I would love to share with everyone my most favorite poem of the Lord called:

Footprints in the Sand

:

One night I dreamed I was walking along the beach with the Lord.

Many scenes from my life flashed across the sky.

In each scene I noticed footprints in the sand.

Sometimes there were two sets of footprints,

other times there were one set of footprints.

This bothered me because I noticed

that during the low periods of my life,

when I was suffering from

anguish, sorrow or defeat,

I could see only one set of footprints.

So I said to the Lord,

"You promised me Lord,

that if I followed you,

you would walk with me always.

But I have noticed that during

the most trying periods of my life

there have only been one

set of footprints in the sand.

Why, when I needed you most,

you have not been there for me?"

The Lord replied,

"The times when you have

seen only one set of footprints in the sand,

is when I carried you."

Author: Mary Stevens 1984

I know many days seem like we're on our own. I know this last year took a HUGE toll on me but as long as I had the Lord in my heart, he always carried me through my troubles and pain. You just have to let him in and give him a chance.

God Bless!!!!!

Technical Difficulties

2009-04-22T10:23:00.003-05:00

I know I said I would share new info w/ you all this weekend but unfortunately I continue to have Technical Difficulties. Hopefully I can get everything put together so I can attach all my new info to the next blog I do. I'm so very eager to share my long awaited info.

Please be patient with me. I may have to contact my favorite S-I-L Christina to pick her brain a bit.

Till next time, I hope you have a wonderful week!!

Stay Tuned for my LONG awaited Blog.......

2009-04-18T10:33:00.003-05:00

Today I'm excited to announce that there will be a HUGE announcement posted sometime this weekend. I'm not quite prepared for it just yet. I've been working on this project non-stop for 3 months now and let me tell you, I'll be glad to relax a little bit!

My blogging has been very lax lately, I know. I just haven't had the time to discuss all my happenings while working on this project. Hopefully now things will slow down a little and I can enjoy all my families upcoming events this year.

Toodles for now. I will be back again soon. Hope your having a beautiful weekend!!

Need to Gripe!

2009-03-23T08:51:00.003-05:00

OK, I know I haven't been on here much lately but I think I'm going through a bloggers blah or something. I haven't been in any mood to blog about my simple happenings in life. To be honest with you, I've been very moody lately and extremely opinionated. I usually try to keep my opinions to myself but today I lost it w/ one of my guys here at work.

I'm really big on appearances and when in the public eye on a daily basis I feel you should take pride in how you represent who your working for. Now from my past blogs I'm sure everyone understands how much I appreciate my job. I wish everyone at my job treated our bosses with a little more appreciation. I think starting with your appearance is crutial.

I walk into work this morning, not having the best of Mondays to begin with, sit down at my desk and in walks one of my tire techs and he stands right in front of me. What is the 1st thing I see, A BIG FAT HICKIE on his neck. This is just uncalled for and very unprofessional and it's not the 1st time with him. Pardon me for saying, but I feel it's soooo white trashy! Can't people get enough love makin in bed without leaving the details. To be honest, thats an inmage I care not think about every time I see him either, yuck! I of course had a comment explode from my mouth immediately:

Me:

Did you forget to feed your girlfriend this weekend?

Co-Worker:

Ha Ha, ya I guess so.

Me:

Don't you thing a T-bone would have been more nutritious?

CW:

(He snickers quietly at me with this very intelligent answer)

Ya probly.

Then he walks away laughing, like what he has on his neck is a trophy to the fact he has a girlfriend. I just wanted to knock him out!!!

I'm not really sure why this has upset me so much but hopefully after finishing this blog, taking a few deep breaths, and checking out what everyone else has been up to, I'll feel better.

My Little Man

2009-03-16T10:53:00.006-05:00

You know there are just some days your children really brighten your day with their thoughtfulness for others. Something that we, as adults, may take for granted on a daily basis, unintentionally.

Well this weekend, Matt went with my dad to help remove a washer and dryer out of my grandma's house so the Menards people could install her new ones today. So this left Caleb and I at home and it makes me very happy that he wanted to stay home with me so I thought why not take him to McDonald's to eat lunch and just hang out. He still has that $5 G.C. his Grandma Susan and Grandpa Tom got him for Valentine's Day. I thought this would be a great opportunity for us to get out of the house and hang out a bit.

I suggest my thoughts on the afternoon and to my serious surprise....

Caleb says:
No thanks mom, I rather stay here at home and eat something.
Me:
Really?!? Why not?
Caleb:
Ya know mom, Mrs. Pruemer at school told me something I think is very important.
Me:
Oh ya Caleb, What might that be?
Caleb:
She said that if you have a day off you shouldn't go out and make someone else wait on you.
Me:
You really feel this way Caleb?
Caleb:
Ya mom, I just want to stay home and eat here. Then I want to play some basketball with you.
Me:
OK Caleb, how's a bologna sandwich sound with some chips.
Caleb:
Sounds good mom.

Now I can't say that he will feel this way the next time I ask him if he wants McDonald's however I will remember this past Sunday always in my heart. Knowing that my son is very thoughtful and compassionate towards others I know Matt and I haven't failed as parents. Plus I know he's learning something at school.....LOL!

I'm a lucky mom!

Just checking in....

2009-02-27T08:03:00.004-06:00

I haven't been posting or even visiting my favorite blogs too much lately.

Just wanted to check in w/ anyone who may stop by and be wondering where I've been.

For whatever reason, I'm just not in a blogging mood. I have so much going on w/ me lately but I don't feel it should be discussed so openly on my blog.

Everything is going good in my life, but I feel emotionally and physically drained. I can't explain it. I don't know why. What I do know is, I'm always tired and no matter how much sleep I can get, I'm still exhausted! It's unexplainable.

Hopefully soon I'll be able to get control of life again and get back to my happy bloggy self. Wish me luck.

God Bless You and your families in this Lenten Season.

Keep the Lord in your heart, you can always count on him.

Happy Birthday C!!!

2009-02-07T21:20:00.009-06:00

A Happy Birthday wish to my S-I-L, CHRISTINA!

I wish you nothing but the very best today and always. I hope your day was filled with much happiness and cheer with a whole lot of well deserved pampering from the men in your life!

Happy Birthday!

At the Rosebud TONIGHT....

2009-02-06T13:35:00.005-06:00

Travis Tritt!!

My husband and I are going to this concert with our dear friends, Mark and Janet. We've been looking forward to doing this since the tickets went on sale.

To be honest, I was a big fan of his back in the day. You know, when I was in grade/high school. However, more recently he hasn't really popped up with album that I recall. I could be all wrong so don't quote me on this though, I listen to all different kinds of music I don't really keep track of any one particular artist (except Celine Dion of course).

Anyhow, I'm really excited about getting out of the house and hanging with some friends for dinner and some fun.

It's Groundhog's Day

2009-02-02T10:01:00.003-06:00

Well it's Groundhog's Day once again. And yes, the little booger saw his shadow. What a little vermin!!!

I absolutely can't stand cold weather. I'm ready for fun in the sun and grilling out with friends and family. I was just looking at my calendar this morning and counting the days till our Florida trip with my family this summer. Let me tell you it seems like its forever away. Now to find out we will tentatively have 6 more blustery weeks of winter, yaaaaaaaaaaa! I can't wait!

I hope you can hence my sarcasm!

Happy 1st Anniversary!

2009-02-02T07:07:00.005-06:00

Awwww! Their so in love!! Happy 1 year Anniversary Chris and Christina!

Congratulations on your 1st year of marriage. You both mean the world to us and we wish nothing but the best in your lives together.

We hope you enjoy your cake ;-)

Another tug on my Heartstrings

2009-01-31T09:56:00.002-06:00

Today is very bitter sweet for me. Caleb's Basketball season just started up last Saturday and he had his second game this morning at 8:15. In which I've missed both due to a conflict with work AGAIN!

I've always been very fortunate to make it to every one of my son's sporting events in his life so far and he is 10 now. It literally is breaking my heart that I've missed his first two. I make sure I tell him "Good Luck", and "Play Hard", and my everyday "I Love You!", before I leave in the mornings. Plus I always ask him to call me with the game results.

Something about getting the results over the phone just isn't the same as being a part of the action. I get so excited when I watch Caleb play sports. He is so talented. I don't want to miss out on a thing and I feel like I'm letting him down since I can't be there to support him.

I've ask my mom to take our camera this morning so I could get some action shots of Caleb and his team, not to mention the HOT coaching staff ;-) I can't wait to see some fantastic shots later!

Update: Caleb called and sang to me "We Are the Champions, We Are the Champions!" Then said: Mom, We WON!! I could just hear the huge smile on his face.

Good Job Team Caleb!

New Moon Update

2009-01-23T17:13:00.003-06:00

I just found out today that the sequel to Twilight, New Moon, that is currently in the making has offered none other that Dakota Fanning to play the role of Jane. Jane is one of the small but strong vampires in the Italian family.

How EXCITING is this. The radio also said they didn't even ask her to audition for the part they just gave it to her. I love this little girl. She is a wonderful little actress w/ tons of spunk. Can't wait to see it!

Ok, I'm finished rambling about such unimportant things. I just had a moment of excitement, I love these books. I don't know what I'll do when I've read them all and own all the movies :-)

And the Award Goes To.....

2009-01-22T16:11:00.003-06:00

Drum roll please ~~~~~~

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The blog I find most interesting and can relate to easily is....

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Yes, back at Christina with Sugar Sweet Thoughts who I might add is getting ready to open up her own business w/ computer design. So if you are in need of any good page headers or just need/want to spice up your blog or business web page you need to check her out.

Hope everyone has a great day!!! Till next time, keep your heads held high and thank God for all the blessings in your life.

Oh ya, I Forgot......

2009-01-21T10:44:00.019-06:00

5 Things I'm Grateful for, here we go......

First and Foremost is the obvious....CALEB!!!!This little man is my inspiration to be the best person I can be. He is my little buddy, he is fantastic at anything he does, and he melts my heart w/ every smile he sends my way!! You never know how much you can love someone until you have a child. His innocence, his stubbornness, his occasional laziness, his love for others, and his pure focus to succeed at something is completely amazing to me.
I Love You Caleb!

Of course, ranked right up there is the Love of my Life!! Where would I be today without his love and support. I too often just expect him to know how much I love him and need him. I feel that sometimes I short change him of my affection. So today I will be sure to SHOUT OUT to everyone how much he means to me and what a wonderful father he is and will be to all the other little rug rats we may or may not have in the future ;-)

I Love You Honey!

One of my most desired junk foods is Ruffles Cheddar and Sour Cream Chips!!! Unlike most people, I'm a salt person. I'm crazy for chips!!!! Any kind of course but RCSC are my fav! If I'm in a dumpy mood ice cream and chocolate isn't the first thought. I'd much rather devour a whole bag of chips :-) YUMMY!!!

As a woman, who doesn't love to shop?!? I look so forward to having a day where I have no worries but how much money to reasonably to spend on Caleb and hopefully finding something for my hotty of a husband. I love pampering my family. Making my men look any studlier than they already are can be quite an exhausting task for any woman but for me it's relaxing happiness!!
And finally, I am grateful for the rhythm and words of music. I couldn't make it through one day without music. T.V., no problem! Anymore there isn't anything to really brag about on television. Songs can really speak to me. Every song has different meaning and has the ability to shape or change your mood on any given day.

There you have it........The 5 things I'm most grateful for. The list could go on and on forever. I have so much to be thankful, grateful, and happy about it was hard to narrow it down. As a side note, I want you to know I'm also very GRATEFUL for my family and close friends. Without you my life would be so boring.

Now I think I'm supposed to give the award to someone else so who will it be? I will think about it and get back to you soon w/ the answer :-) Stay tuned......

How Sweet, Thanks!

2009-01-20T15:03:00.008-06:00

How Exciting!!! I'm finally getting around to excepting a couple of awards given to me by wonderful friends in my life. Thank you so much to Dawn and Christina.

I'm not so good at all this blogging and awarding others yet but in time I'm sure this will change. So for now I'll sit back and appreciate my friends thoughtfulness until they let me know what I should have done already :-)

Thank You for the above award Dawn. I think your pretty awesome too :-)

Must Love Tots

And to my favorite S-I-L, Christina :-)

I think you are the most considerate friend a person could ask for. No matter the circumstance, I know I can always count on you to help pull me through, and the Lord knows, we've had our moments ;-) I don't know what I'd do without you!

Thank You!

Sugar Sweet Thoughts

Cancer Strikes Again

2009-01-20T13:26:00.003-06:00

I found out yesterday that cancer has affected yet another person. Beyond all the people in my life that it has affected in the past that may or may not have conquered this disease, it continues to show its ugly face.

Yesterday I found out that an acquaintance of mine has to battle an invasive form of cancer for the second time. This person is only a few years older than I am. They've already had to successfully beat cancer about 3 years ago. It is so hard to grasp how unmerciful cancer is. It cares not of your age, race, or strength.

I pray everyday for a cure for this horrendous disease that affects so many peoples lives each day. I can only wish that you do the same.

Happy Birthday Momma!!!

2009-01-19T08:51:00.004-06:00

Happy 49th Birthday Momma!

I hope today is filled w/ good memories and much deserved pampering :-)

I am so proud of who you are and I Thank God everyday I have you for my mother.

Even with all our trials in life we have so many great times to look back on and laugh about. I know that no matter what YOU are w/ out a doubt my Best Friend and Confidant!!

I Love You w/ all my heart!
Happy Birthday Momma!

Love Always,
Your Little Girl,
Wendy

Thank You!!

2009-01-15T16:21:00.004-06:00

A BIG THANK YOU

goes out to my Aunt Judy!!!

She found the Celine Dion Biography.

I've been looking for this book at every book store imaginable.

Now for those of you that don't know, I love everything about Celine Dion. I think she is a great person, musician, mother, wife, and idol for a lot of people. She puts her life in the public eye and doesn't care what people think about here.

I know she has a lot to be happy about but I truly love her attitude on life. She refuses to let anything get her down. She was a rock solid partner for her husband when he got cancer. She made sure he didn't get down on life as any spouse would do. She is just so positive and happy all the time even if the chips are down. She went through a long bout of infertility and after years finally prevailed when she had her son Rene' Charles. She never gave up and I completely admire her strength.

I guess she is my idol because she stands tall and proud for who she is. She knows how to handle defeat w/ grace. She knows how to celebrate all the joys life has to give.

I want to be that person. I want to take things w/ a grain of salt. I want to learn how to juggle life better with a full time career. I need to learn to step back, analyze, and conquer my situations instead of jumping the gun and over-reacting. I know with time and patience I will succeed in my journey.

If anyone is interested in Celine feel free to join her fan club at www.celinedion.com

Sending Hugs

2009-01-08T10:58:00.002-06:00

I want to let Dawn know that my thoughts and prayers are w/ her and her family during this rough time. Your mom has been very strong through it all and that strength will always be with her thanks to the support of her family.

I couldn't imagine the emotions that are going through her right now. I know words can't fix or mend the pain but just so she knows we'll be here for here for anything.

((((HUGS))))

Happy Birthday Dawn

2009-01-07T08:40:00.005-06:00

I want to send a special birthday greeting to Dawn.

What is this one, 22 again? hehehehe....JK. Just remember, women age like fine wine...we get better w/ time.

I hope you have a wonderfully relaxing and pampered day. You deserve it!

Happy Birthday Girl!

Having Trouble

2009-01-03T10:00:00.003-06:00

I would have never thought that dieting would be so hard for me. I was always pretty good at that. I'm very self-conscious of my looks and for whatever reason I'm struggling dearly. I cannot get big!!

I think I need to get some kind of appetite suppressant or something. I can't get control of my eating. I LOVE FOOD!!!! What is wrong w/ me? I've never been this bad. I have no energy to exercise and can't stop eating......UGH......I'm doomed.

I'm heading to the pharmacy after work and checking out some possibilities.

Happy New Year!!!!

2009-01-01T20:52:00.004-06:00

Here's to wishing better days and fulfilling happiness to everyone I know. I have a very optimistic feeling that 2009 will be a very happy year for my family. We had some rough obstacles to climb out of in 2008 and succeeded w/ our heads held high.

I know I will grow from all the memories of 2008 and cherish every minute of 2009. I look forward to watching our little boy mature. I know that will be a bitter sweet time because I'm so used to Caleb needing 110% of my time and support. It will be hard to "let him go" but I know w/ some guidance and good parenting he will turn into a very respectful, strong willed, and happy person.

I have 2 resolutions this year and both I feel will make me a better person. My first resolution is (most traditional) loosing weight and getting back into shape. I don't think I've exercised whole heartily in over a year. I've maintained my weight but I can definitely improve on the tone of my body. Secondly and most importantly I plan on being less stressed over things I can't control. I'm such an organizer/planner and hate when things don't turn out as planned. But I am going to work on taking a deep breath and letting things roll off my shoulder. Just because someone doesn't feel the same way I do or something doesn't go as I planned doesn't mean it's wrong, everyone is allowed to there own opinion and my life is too good to worry about other peoples foolishness. I should enjoy every minute that God has allowed me to make memories w/ my family and friends.

I wish everyone luck and strength w/ all there resolutions and I hope that I can grow from mine.

Here's to a Happy, Healthy, and Fulfilling New Year!

Welcome 2009

Happy Birthday Honey!

2008-12-31T08:27:00.003-06:00

Sending out a special Birthday Wish to my loving husband, Matt. He has finally caught back up to me in age. He is always giving me a hard time about me being older than him since my birthday is a few weeks before his. Well honey, as you should know, I don't consider myself old just quite a bit wiser.....LOL.....no really =)

Yesterday was officially his birthday so Caleb and I decided we would make his favorite dessert, banana cream pie, instead of buying a cake we won't eat. We made the whole pie from scratch w/ a little help from JELL-O instant pudding mix. Then decided to make spaghetti for dinner. It was very enjoyable, my dad even came over for the celebration.

Oh where the years have gone. I remember first meeting Matt my freshman year in high school in Mrs. Pruemer's English class at the ripe old age of 15. Those were the innocent years when we never thought about getting old. Not to mention the fact that we were invincible. Now all we think about is adding another year on. Now instead of every weekend planning parties with our friends we are planning family time or scheduling dinner plans. The funny thing about this is it's perfect to me. I couldn't live without my family. I know I'm getting older now.

Anyway,
HAPPY BIRTHDAY HONEY, I hope you had a great day!!!

I love Comments

2008-12-26T10:04:00.004-06:00

I know there are a few people other than Christina & Dawn (thanks girls) that read my blog. I know this because I sort of kind of track it. Plus this morning I had an email from someone who said they read my blog and wanted me to check theirs out. Well I did, buuuutttt, I couldn't read a lick of it. I'm not even sure where they were from. It was a nice blog set up but that's all the further I got.

Now, I'm just worried about identity theft. Weird huh?!? I'm just not to computer literate and afraid that by opening up that email msg then I let some crazy person in on a lot of personal information. I know I'm crazy. Did I screw up by opening that email msg about my blog?

Anyway, what I'm getting at is, if you stop by my blog please let me know by leaving a comment if you have one. I love to hear other people's opinions on some of my moments, the good and the not so good :-)

Thanks for understanding, Have a great day!!!

The Christmas Madness Starts Today

2008-12-24T07:46:00.005-06:00

Today is the beginning of my families Christmas Madness!! From this point till Sunday evening we will be rushing around getting ready for each of our families Christmas'. I wish I could plan on spending more time w/ just Matt and Caleb. Does this feeling make me a selfish person? I just don't feel, though we are together through all the family Christmas', that we get to celebrate Christmas "together". We are always looking at the clock making sure we allow ourselves to get to the next event. Where is the Christmas cheer in that?

Here's the list of Christmas events for us this year:
1st, Christmas Eve: My mom and dad's
2nd, Christmas Day: Our house in the morning
Tom & Sue's (for immediate family) by 11:30-12pm
My Gma Millie's (for my dad's side) by 5-5:30pm
3rd, Dec.26th: Back to Tom and Sue's (for Tom's side)
4th, Dec.27th: Matt's cousin Lucy is having a Christmas Wedding
5th, Dec.28th: Over to Angie & Joe's (for Susan's side) at 12pm

Oh, did I mention that I work on Christmas Eve till noon and the 26th from 7:30-5:30pm. Seems like there's no time to breath let alone time to enjoy the holidays when your constantly on the go.

This may not seem like a lot to everyone else but for me, who before I got married, had only 2 Christmas' to attend throughout all my youth years. So this is still a huge adjustment for me. I know you would think after 6 years of this I'd be used to it, but it just seems to get more hard for me as the years go on but I keep smiling and moving through the motions.

Not only do I have a problem w/ being on the go but I feel that Caleb doesn't get to enjoy any of his gifts from Santa because once he unwraps them he's bounced to another location. Christmas is about the children and watching there eyes light up with excitement with every gift they open. How can any appreciation or satisfaction be shown when your just too busy to enjoy everything?

Wish me luck through this busy Christmas Season that I keep my sanity. Merry Christmas everyone!

Winter Wonderland

2008-12-23T11:13:00.002-06:00

The cold Christmas snow, rain, and ice has finally struck Effingham. I sit here worrying about all the travelers on the road to make it home for the holidays. I'm such a worry wart about things I can't control. I won't feel good until I hear they've made it.

The ones worrying me the most are my kid sisters, 2 coming from Chicago (Jennifer & Elizabeth)and 1 coming from Champaign (Alicia) . I'm also concerned w/ my my B-I-L and S-I-L, Chris and Christina, and my sweet little nephew Calvin who are traveling south to see Mickey and Minnie for Christmas. I'm still waiting for the word on there safe arrival to Walt Disney World :-)

I hope everyone is careful w/ there travels and please wear your seat belts. Can't wait to see you all soon.

My Baby Turned 10 Today.

2008-12-22T19:03:00.013-06:00

I think today was possibly the hardest day for me when it came to my son, Caleb. How did the time manage to slip away so quickly? I can't believe my little baby turned double digits today! He is supposed to stay little forever. Isn't there a contract for that? If not I need to figure out how to have a contract made :-)

He is just growing up so fast before my eyes. He is so independent now. He enjoys doing certain things other than just hanging out w/ me now, such as; Playing w/ his friends, hunting, going to any sporting event possible w/ whoever will take him, he's grown into a mighty hunter in training, and most of all he is starting to separate himself from us at all cost. Am I not "cool" anymore? How can you stand to hang out w/ your friends more than me :-)

He is a very sweet natured, loving, and thoughtful boy w/ an adventurous and mischievous side. He knows how to play mom and dad against each other, what child doesn't. But in his rougher times he knows who to come to if he really needs a warm word of advice - ME.....LOL! (Who else would it be)

So I guess I'm not necessarily loosing my little boy completely but watching his transformation from my little baby boy into a young man has my heart torn with emotion.

Caleb,
I hope to never loose momma's little boy. No matter what I hope you always know how much your father and I LOVE you. Your my little buddy, personal stylist, and confidant. I'm pretty sure I count on you as much as you count on me. I know in years to come that may all change, but for now I'm holding on w/ dear life to every moment we are lucky enough to share. I hope you've had a wonderful 10th Birthday filled w/ much love and memories.

Oh ya, don't ever forget: It doesn't matter how old you are, you'll always be my little baby boy.

Love Always,
Mom

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I would also like to take this time to send a Happy Birthday cheer to my kid sister for she and my little man share the same Birthday. How sweet is that, right!?!

Happy Birthday Jen!!!!! Hope you had a great day!

They're Coming Home :-)

2008-12-19T10:19:00.002-06:00

Well, mom and dad are finally coming home today from there wonderful, well deserved trip to Montego Bay, Jamaica. Mom has been checking in periodically to let me know how much fun they were having together. It's so nice to hear her so happy!

I can't wait to see them tonight, I don't think there going to be getting home till about 8pm if the weather is cooperative. I think I'll surprise them and be there when they get home and help them unpack and settle back in to the "Real World" of Illinois cold :-)

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Mom & Dad,
I'm so glad you enjoyed yourselves in the sunny land of "NO Problem Mon". However, I also am so very happy your coming home because I've missed you terribly! I lost the ones I can always turn to in a pinch for a whole week ~ I never knew how much I really need you!

Prayers

2008-12-19T09:15:00.003-06:00

Wanting to take a minute and let a friend of mine know I'm thinking of her on a difficult day. No words can heal, only time will help, but a shoulder to cry on is always near.

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For all my passer by's:
Please say a quick prayer for my friend and anyone else who may be having a hard time this Christmas Season.

God Bless & Merry Christmas!!

Havin a Blast

2008-12-16T09:07:00.003-06:00

My momma called me at 8:17 this morning. Yaaa, it was so nice to hear from her. The sayings "Absence makes the heart grow fonder" or "You don't know what you got till its gone" are 100% true statements.

It was great to hear that my parents are actually ENJOYING there time away together! They both have gone snorkeling, mom said dad drank half the ocean, but they enjoyed it and would do it again. Yesterday they went to Dunn's River Falls and climbed it, what an accomplishment for my parents =) My mom and aunt went on the paddle boats too. Mom said she was interested in wind surfing today if the weather held up, she said it was in the 80's there and sunny - we can only dream of that weather now.

I have just one request: Bring some sunshine home w/ you on Friday =)

Thinking of my Sis

2008-12-15T21:14:00.007-06:00

Just sitting here thinking of my kid sister on a cold winter night. I just wish we were closer in age so we could appreciate the same things in life. Having an eight year difference in age really can challenge a sibling relationship.

I've always loved my kid sister but as normal we don't always see eye to eye. I just want to learn how to work together instead of always butting heads w/ each other. There is no doubt that we both have love for one another but our lives are just so different. Why do I have such a hard time relating to her? Am I a really difficult person? I find myself questioning this situation a lot. I don't know how to fix it & trust me I'm a fixer. I know I'm partially to blame for this situation but our attitudes on life are linear opposite. I'm more plan, plan, plan and she is more relax and let things happen. How do you fix such different personalities?

I know at this point in our lives we need to figure something out, but how? Any opinions? It's the Christmas season, the time to show our love for one another and to appreciate all God has given us? I have a ton to be thankful for and she is one of the biggest gifts in my life. I want to know how I can reach out to her and start over from any sadness I may have caused her or any times of doubtfulness I may have led her to think of herself.

Jennifer, you are a wonderful person!! No matter what situation may happen between us always know that I love you w/ all my heart. I would never intentionally hurt you and I know the same goes for you. May the days to come embrace our characters to prove to each other that life is good and being unhappy gets us nowhere.

We are strong individuals who both have a mind of our own and we both need to work on the fact that we are NOT always right! You win some, you lose some, but no matter what, your a better person because of every experience you have in life.

Always know,

I LOVE YOU SIS!!!

Christina, I did it!!!!

2008-12-15T21:08:00.004-06:00

I know that most people will think I'm a weird-o for getting so excited about something that probably comes so easy to most but I did it and I'm so proud of myself!

Anyone who knows me knows I'm pretty computer illiterate. If I can't figure something out I just call my brilliant, computer savvy S-I-L, Christina. Well tonight I figured out all by myself how to download songs and put them on my blog!! Cool right?!? I didn't even have to call Christina w/ the usual technical help, I'm so excited and proud of myself.

OK, enough gloating on myself I just wanted to share my happiness w/ everyone else who might find this blog humorous =)

Thank You Gma Sue =)

2008-12-15T20:11:00.007-06:00

Thank you for the sweater Grandma Sue. I really appreciated it! That was a very sweet thought. I plan on wearing it for Christmas Day.

Love Always,
Caleb

Shout Out!!!

2008-12-15T13:44:00.002-06:00

I want to send a Shout Out to my S-I-L, Christina. Your the best!!!

She and my very handsome nephew Calvin brought over a cute Christmas box filled w/ all kinds of yummy surprises =) You and your friends did an excellent job on the Christmas Candy this year, as always ;-)

Thanks again for your Christmas wishes, they are very much appreciated.

They Made It!!

2008-12-12T16:12:00.004-06:00

Jamaica Bound and Free!

My mom and dad and my aunt and uncle have landed in the beautiful, warm, and sunny Jamaica this afternoon. I'm so jealous =)

My mom and dad have been married for 25 years and haven't been out of the U.S. once. My dad has never been on a plane before. Furthermore, he's barely been out of Illinois. I think he's been as far as Florida - ONCE. So we were a little worried he might get butterflies upon entering the plane and chicken out.

Well he did great! No problems through the flight and they are well on their way to a Fun and Worry Free Week in the land of "NO Problem Man" Jamaica.

I hope they take a lot of pictures so they can prove they were really there =) Wish you the best, be careful, and most of all - HAVE A BLAST!!!

On to #2 - NEW MOON

2008-12-12T15:52:00.004-06:00

Well I'm ready for book #2 - New Moon. I'm so excited!

I've been so busy at work today that I haven't had a chance to open the book. I will however get started this evening. The way the last book left off I have to find out how Edwards family feels about Bella now.

Secret Santa?!?

2008-12-11T21:12:00.003-06:00

I want to thank whoever it was that dropped a sweater, placed in a holiday bag, w/ red tissue paper on top, off at our home this afternoon. Unfortunately I'm at a loss. I don't know what to do w/ it. Is it for him for Christmas, his Birthday, or just because? When should I give it to him? It's a really cute sweater that would be great for Christmas pix. So whomever this Secret Santa is please let me know what I'm supposed to do.

If I don't hear from anyone by next Friday I'll just go ahead and give it to him as an extra birthday gift. This way he'll have it washed and available for our family Christmas'.

Again, A Big Thank You to whomever you are!!! You have great taste =)

I'm getting old

2008-12-11T10:01:00.003-06:00

In my past 32 years of life I have never been able to drink coffee. It would make me really jittery and then sick to my stomach. I never knew why it made me feel this way but it did therefore I never drank it. I absolutely LOVE the smell of coffee so it made it very frustrating to not be able to drink it. So to deal w/ cold weather I always stuck w/ my hot chocolate.

On Tuesday I didn't have time for my hot chocolate run and I was freezing at work. Even w/ my space heater on I couldn't get warm. So I thought I would try coffee one more time. It was actually good to me. Yes, I had to put two packets of sugar and one packet of creamer in it but who's counting that? It tasted good to me and it didn't make me jittery or sick. Wow, was this really it? I can drink coffee?

My new theory on it is: I'm getting old!!!!

Yaaa, I did it!!

2008-12-11T09:20:00.003-06:00

I finally got the book TWILIGHT read. All 500 some pages. For me, this is a major accomplishment because I hate to read. I'd much rather watch a movie if I had any down time available.

Talk about a great book. Yes, the movie was very good but this book was great. It went into so much more detail and filled you in on a lot that the movie left out. I was very impressed w/ all the good details on each character and the showing of how much one family would do to help someone they loved! Ahhh, definitely a chick thing.

I want to send a big Shout Out to my friend Dawn :-) Thank you for introducing me to the series of books. Now I'm addicted and even though I asked for the New Moon for Christmas I'm not going to be able to wait. I'm going to get it tonight while I'm out. The sneak peak at the end of Twilight leaves you hanging at such a dramatic point......OMG.....I'm hooked!!

Well, I'm off on my next adventure......till next time....

Happy Birthday to ME!!

2008-12-08T21:04:00.006-06:00

Well, another year is gone and so much to look back on.

I had a wonderful birthday today. To start my day off I walked into work and found an apple fritter (my favorite doughnut) on my desk w/ a lit candle in the center and my boss sang his version of Happy Birthday. Let's just say it was the version about a monkey, haha.

Then about an hour and a half my delightful mother surprised me w/ a plate full of her famous, melt in your mouth, buttery, delicious pancakes. Your the best mom!! She then stayed to visit for about an hour. While she was there I had a beautiful surprise of flowers delivered to me from Martin's IGA. One bouquet was from my sweet, sweet son, Caleb. The other was from my momma. It really put a smile on my face.

Then my friends Mark and Janet and their daughter Jenny took me out to TGIFridays for lunch....I know your thinking how could I eat so much right.....I like food. I tried something different, Cajun Chicken and Shrimp Pasta w/ Alfredo sauce and red peppers....mmmmm. Lunch was great until we were ready to leave and Janet conveniently reminded our waitress that it was my BIRTHDAY!! So of course they brought out some yummy ice-cream w/ chocolate and Carmel syrup on it and then sang their famous song. Oh the memories.

Then after work my hubby took me out to Puerta Vallerta and had a good meal, where my sweet, sweet son had to let them know it was my birthday and yes, they sang to me there too. I think he did it just for the desert since I was full.

After this long fabulous day we got home and there was one more gift to open from Matthew. As I opened it and read the box I was so excited!!! It was something I've been wanting for a long time now and didn't expect to get for my birthday, maybe Christmas, but not my birthday! I got my CANON Powershot SD890 IS!!!!! I ripped it open and started taking pix of everything; Caleb, my mom, Matt, my cat, the living room - I think you can get my excitement now. Honey your the best! This camera is amazing!!!! Now I can take pix up a storm at all our Christmas get togethers, yaaaa!!! Look out everyone.

Thank you to everyone that called, text, emailed me, and stopped by today. You have all made my day! I haven't been one to be very excited about birthdays in the past few years, it seems to be just another day. However, today was absolutely wonderful and yes, IT WAS ALL ABOUT ME! Everyone who cares about me let me know one way or another and that melts my heart. I have a lot of good people surrounding my life. Thank you all again!

Happy Thoughts for me!

2008-12-03T16:06:00.003-06:00

Well as of today I'm a widow till Sunday. Deer Season has struck again. I've got a lot going on this week and emotions are running high. Anymore lately that's all I am, a big pile of blubery emotions. Tears, sobs, and sleepless nights.

I usually love deer season. I have the house to myself for my good quality Me time. This year is soo different for me though, why? Anyone who knows me probably knows why. I try so hard to be strong on the outside and carry a positive attitude, but this season it's really difficult to do without my husband. I've never been this needy before and I hope it doesn't last long. I know I'll make it through. I see the light at the end of the tunnel.

I'm just not a quiter. I will prevail in what I'm working so hard for. I have nothing but happy thoughts now for a wonderful future.

Good Luck Honey!! Hope you find you BIG Buck!

Here's to my HAPPY THOUGHTS!

Movie of the Year!!! A MUST SEE!!!

2008-11-22T10:55:00.005-06:00

On Friday, November 21st at 9:45pm, I met up w/ Christina, Dawn, and Candy to watch The Movie of the Year - TWILIGHT.

This movie is unbelievable. It's only rated PG-13 so you know it's not like the other vampire movies out there - gory and sexy. It was a romantic/comedy/drama. A really great combination if you ask me.

This movie intrigued me so much I had to go and buy the book. Now I just started yesterday evening and I'm already on chapter 3. This may not sound like much for some readers, but for me this is a big deal. I'm not a reader, I don't have the time. For this book I'm making the time and it works out good because it's easier for Caleb to have his reading time since I'm reading too.

Well, I'm off to read some more. If you haven't seen this movie I highly recommend it. Who doesn't love Romance and Sincerity? Edward is every girls dream even if he is a Vampire.

BTW.....Thank you Dawn for purchasing the tix early. The invite was very much appreciated girls :-)

I remember when....

2008-11-21T10:35:00.003-06:00

I remember when my beautiful & healthy son, Caleb, was born on December 22nd 1998 @6:15 pm in Danville, IL.

Caleb has been the inspiration to my life. I don't know where I would be today without him. He is my reason everyday to get up and take care of my responsibilities. He brings me joy, laughter, and a few (small) hard times. There is nothing I wouldn't do for him.

Caleb was born on my little sister, Jennifer, birthday. She just turned 14 that day. I still to this day don't know if she was happy or maybe a little disappointed in sharing her birthday with him. My birthday is exactly two weeks before hers (theirs) and we always had our parties together since there seemed to be so much going on in December. It was just easier for our parents. I never really cared because I was eight years older and had a few birthday to myself. She had to share her day w/ me then & now because of me she has to always and forever share her birthday w/ her nephew. I know she loves him dearly and he can't live w/ out her. Maybe in the end it will help them be inseparable.

Where does the time go? Once so tiny and helpless and now such a little big man and very strong hearted. I love you Caleb w/ all my heart and soul!

Love Always,
Your Momma

On my own for the weekend.

2008-11-21T09:28:00.007-06:00

Well, it's that time of year again. Time for the men in my house to go off for the weekend and look for Bambi's dad. It's something that Matt and Caleb have been looking forward to for about 2 1/2 months now. They (well really just Matt) put in many long hours putting together "huts" to set up out at deer camp this year. I mean these things are nice. They have windows on both sides and the front. They have equip them w/ plastic tubs filled w/ pillows and blankets. They've also brought in the must have: Office Chairs on rollers! That's roughin' it if you ask me ;-)

Matt says he helped make these huts so it would be easier for the little ones that go out there to assist there dad's. I agree w/ him to an extent but I know he will by far appreciate it more than the little ones will since he's been dealing w/ the bitter cold of deer season for so many years. All they need now are little space heaters and they'll be at the top of there hunting comfort level. We'll see what Santa thinks about that.

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Yesterday I had the day off and spent it just laying around our house. Granted, there was a lot of house cleaning and many loads of laundry that I should have done but I was very lazy. I decided that laying down, watching television and cuddling w/ my kitties sounded a whole lot better. I don't get to watch a whole lot of T.V. because I'm always so busy. While flipping through the channels I realized why I don't watch a lot of T.V., even if I had the time. There's nothing on!

After channel surfing for awhile I figured there couldn't be a better time to pop in a DVD. So I did.

First movie out: How to Lose a Guy in Ten Days. It's an all time favorite of mine and I can probably recite it word for word. Anyway, it's a great love story. I might also add the actor/actress' are not bad on the eyes ;-) You should check it out if you haven't alread done so, it's an older movie.

Second movie later that evening was: Untraceable w/ Diane Lane.

Now I'm not a lover of scary movies but this movie had it all; drama, action, suspense, and yes a little scare too. I had to close my eyes at a couple of moments but for the most part this movie is very good. I would recommend it to other, wait, that's what I'm doing.....LOL!

FAMILY: What would life be like?

2008-11-19T15:37:00.004-06:00

Do you ever just feel like barricading yourself in your house and secluding yourself from family drama? Well I do sometimes, and today is one of them. I would love to give some people a piece of my mind.

I'm not saying in any sense of the fashion that I always do everything right but I know when I go to bed at night I have done my best to help anyone who needs it. I'm a giver not a taker. When I am wrong, I do my best to fix my mistake.

I get so sick of being the nice guy. So tired of doing the right thing. So tired of always being the bigger person. I'm only human and my skin is only so deep.

That saying "The straw that broke the camel's back". Ya that has huge meaning to me when it comes to one certain unnamed family member. You know who you are and I'm tired of your inconsideration to everyone in the family. I think just maybe once you should step up and be a responsible person.

It doesn't matter what your background in life looks like. At some point you have to WANT to better yourself as a whole; as a mom, as a friend, as a wife, as a daughter, as everything. I know I've had my ups and downs in life, who hasn't. You just have to learn from the mistakes and grow from the good times. That's life....get used it!! Your not a child anymore your an adult w/ children, START ACTING LIKE IT! You shouldn't expect everyone else to still take care of you and your family. We have our own to take care of!

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Now that I've said my piece I feel a lot better. I still haven't decided what I'm going to do w/ my current situation but I have a little time to determine my options.

Oh Happy Days :-)

Winter Sore Throat/Cough has finally hit me.

2008-11-18T07:55:00.005-06:00

I was just thinking last week how my health was going great. I felt fine; no sniffles, coughs, stomach aches, ect. The reason being, both Matt and Caleb have been a little under the weather in the past weeks and I stayed healthy. Shocking!! Caleb has had the sniffles for about 3-4 weeks and just can't shake it. He's not feeling bad, he still has all the energy and maybe a little more than an average 9 year old. That's just Caleb, nothing gets him down. My easiest way to know he's sick is when he barely moves. Matt had a scratchy throat a couple of weeks ago but went away quickly so we thought nothing of it.

Now, starting Sunday late evening, I couldn't get my throat moist no matter how much water I drank. I knew at this point something was up. Low and behold Monday morning I could NOT get out of bed. I was so tired and weak. My throat was a little sore. My eyes even hurt. Finally, I rolled out of bed at 6:30 & got ready for work. Today was even worse I didn't stir out of bed till 6:42.....UGH!

Once I'm up moving around I feel a little better but nowhere near a 100%. I would almost rather a stomach flu over what I have. With my profession I have to talk A LOT and having a hoarse voice is a big problem. Luckily my work is very easy going and doesn't mind how I sound their just glad I made it to work ;-)

Well, hopefully soon I start feeling better instead of worse. The men in my life are going to be gone from Thursday to Sunday deer hunting. Let me tell you how excited they are too! Plus my parents are both going to be out of town this weekend to visit my sister in Chicago. So needless to say, on top of everything else this week, I hope I'm feeling better.