sundaisies & doodlebugs

Heather's Christmas survey....FUN!

2006-12-21T10:24:00.000-08:00

1. Egg Nog or Hot Chocolate? hot cocoa w/marshmallows and peppermint stick from Cracker Barrel.(I'm all out, Mom!)
2. Does Santa wrap presents or just sit them under the tree? wrapped...and thanks to Joleen, with ribbons and bows!
3. Colored lights or white on tree/house ? lots of lights....doesn't matter the color. especially chasing lights!
4. Do you hang mistletoe? LOL...I bought it after Thanksgiving and it's still sitting here in the pkg, next to my computer!
5. When do you put your decorations up? the weekend after Thanksgiving
6. What is your favorite holiday dish (excluding dessert)? On Christmas day...Lasagna
7. Favorite holiday memory as a child? When I was a kid, my grandparents used to run a tape recorder while we unwrapped the gifts. Going back and listening to the comments out of context is hysterical! Where are those tapes anyway?
8. When and how did you learn the truth about Santa? If I stop believing in Sanata Claus, he might stop coming to my house!
9. Do you open a gift on Christmas Eve? Our family gift exchange is Christmas eve. Then Santa comes to our house. Doesn't he come to yours?
10. How do you decorate your Christmas Tree? Love my pre-lit tree!!!!! Annual, dated ornaments along with all the handmade ones from the kids over the years.
11. Snow… love it or dread it? Love it...from indoors
12. Do you know how to ice skate? yes, but never gonna happen again!
13. Do you remember your favorite gift? So many over the years, but like Jo, I once followed a scavenger hunt through my grandma's house and found my present in the dryer. THE DRYER WAS RUNNING!!!!!!! LOL I still remember getting my first bike. I was 6. It was hidden in the garage. a beautiful red schwin. I wish I still had it!
14. What’s the most important thing about the holidays for you? the family all getting together. The chaos of the kids.
15. What is your favorite holiday dessert? FUDGE! You go, Jo. Now we just have to teach you how to make it! So I can stop :)
16. What is your favorite holiday tradition? My kids coming home Christmas eve and spending the night to wake up EARLY, together the next morning. It was hard last year without it. 2 years ago, Brad & I woke the kids up at 3:30 am! That was the best ever.
17. What tops your tree? A poor ancient angel who requires surgery each year before she can go up!
18. Which do you prefer giving or receiving? I love to receive, of course, but it's too much fun giving and watching the joys in my loved one's faces. This is my favorite.
19. Favorite Christmas Song? Oh Holy Night, sung by John Berry
20. Favorite Flavor of Candy Canes? Hershey's chocolate mint.

Poor Buster!!!

2006-12-19T16:26:00.000-08:00

Today Buster had to have an unplanned surgery. The night before Thanksgiving we found a bump on his left side. We took him to see the dr. that Friday, but they didn't think it was anything to worry about. Not only has it doubled in size since then, but it nows seems to bother Buster. We took him in today and the vet has no idea what it is. He removed it and will send it for a biopsy. We should know more by Friday. he said it wasn't a cist like he though, but some kind of tissue growth. We pray it's nothing serious. Buster looks so sad!

Christ in Action

2006-12-18T17:44:00.000-08:00

On Friday night, Sarah had an open house with the ministry she has been particpating in. I wanted to video tape it to share with everyone, but I don't have a working battery for my video camera. I took lots of still pictures. Sarah hasn't been in it very long and doesn't participate in all the songs, however, she does very well in the songs she does participate in and we are very proud of her. I really hope you all have an opportunity to see this presentation some time. It truely is something else to see! See if you can pick her out of these shots.....it's not as easy as you'd think!

Molly

2006-12-18T08:08:00.000-08:00

Every year since i've known him, Brad has given me a Christmas present before Christmas. I used to think it was because he just couldn't wait, but I realized now, it's just a fun tradition with him. This year, he really surprised me. He gave me a puppy!
She was rescued from a shelter in Ontario. She is a terrier mix and is 4 months old. She has the sweetest personality and Buster loves her! She will be a ltitle bit bigger than Buster, which is perfect! Maybe he won't bully her so much. We already know she can hold her own with him. She is a little bit intimidated with her surroundings, but is adapting very well. She already will potty everytime on her pad as long as she's in her pen (an area we gated off in my bedroom). When she has the rest of the house, she pottys wherever! This is my least favorite part of raising a puppy, for sure! She sleeps through the night and is a super cuddle bug! Here are some pictures of Molly, Buster and Jake getting to know each other. Since these pictures were taken, Buster and Molly play all the time - keep away, chase, and wrestle! Molly can even steal the toy from Buster! Of course, she has to trick him into dropping it first!

Here I am!!!!!!!

2006-12-04T18:29:00.000-08:00

Well, life has been so busy lately. I've been really great at taking the pictures, but have had no time to put them out there to share with you all. We'll use this blog as a catch up.

First, Sarah has been very busy in her new ministry called C.I.A. (Christ in Action). It is a mime and sign troop that goes around spreading the gospel with music. She's been working very hard and is doing very well. We are very proud of her as well as the group. We quickly felt like we belongs to this "family". Most of the kids in this troup have been doing this for several years; some up to 8 years. As the kids grow up, they take over leadership roles in the group. It's great! I'm glad for Sarah to be involved in such a great project.

Next, Thanksgiving was so fabulous! I really had a great time. I'm already feeling sad about next year. This was the first year that we had all of our children and their families with us. In addition, all of my family, with the exception of Laura and James were there too! Thanks to a quick weather change, we moved it all indoors. Although it was crowded, it was terrific. The food was to die for, as usual, and for the first time ever, we made enough deviled eggs! There were actually 4 left over! :) With turkey, ham, potatoes, sweet potatoes, stuffing, veggies, salads, homemade bread (Thanks, Kim!), pies (Alex even baked from scratch!) , birthday cake and all the trimmings, I'm sure no one went home hungry! Thank you to everyone who made this day so special. I find myself counting down the days until Christmas, so we can be together again! Can't wait for that lasagna...

Speaking of Christmas.....on Friday after Thanksgiving, we decorated for Christmas. It was lots of fun, and we even had Deana home to help. Sarah and Deana are now tall enough, that they don't need any help trimming the tree. This is both exciting and sad for me. Some days it's very hard to see them all grown up! Our neighbor, Brielle, has been asking Mom and Dad for a baby sisiter. Since they have not obliged her, she came over to be "sisters" with the girls and helped with the tree. Here are the rest of the pictures of Sarah and Thanksgiving, along with our Christmas decorations! 21 more days and counting!!!!!!!!!!!

Christmas Card Catalog

2006-10-18T13:56:00.000-07:00

I have been working very hard on creating this catalog of Christmas Card designs to offer to individuals as well as small businesses. I have been blessed with several orders thus far! I already have placed supply orders for an order of 150 Pine Berry cards, 140 Cardinal cards, 12 Thanksgiving Blessing cards, and the 60 Santa with his Toys cards for my family. I have completed the two small orders already! Today I took an order for 50 Cardinal Cards, 25 Snowflake cards, and should have another for 125 either Pine Berry or Peaceful Wishes. Last night I took a special order for 100 Happiest Holiday cards in special colors. Actually I really like their chosen colors better than my original ones! I designed a couple of other cards last night and hope to get orders in for those, so I can place another supply order. I am very excited, but also a little nervous. I hope I priced them right! I also hope I can fill all the orders with satisfaction and in a timely manner. With the retreat coming up as well, I am very busy! Anyway, maybe these pictures will help you come up with an idea for your own cards. Let me know so I can make sure to have all your supplies ready for you! Here is my catalog....

If I had a camera with me...

2006-10-12T12:43:00.000-07:00

If I had a camera with me I could have shown you what a wonderful week of experiences I had.

If I had a camera with me, I could've shown you Brad's face when he opened Andre Agassi for his anniversary gift. (Okay, not Andre, but a great picture of him!)

If I had a camera with me, I could've shown you Grandma enjoying the Kenny Rogers concert, and making sure that we all knew that she wants "Through The Years" played at her funeral!

If I had a camera with me, I could've shown you Aimee's face as she tried to explain to us the difference between one pound of coffee beans and one pound of ground coffee!

If I had a camera with me, I could've shown you the fabulous moon last night! It was gold and orange. It was shaped in such a way that it was missing from 11 o'clock to 3 o'clock and it was chopped from 3 o'clock to 6 o'clock. It was amazing. At one point it was hiding behind the mountain, and only a tiny piece was showing. It gave Sarah and I the opportunity to discuss the colors of the moon (in reality) and about the lunar eclipse. Apparantly, it's not white.

If I had a camera with me, I could've shown you Joleen in her beautiful purple dress. The shoes?????? WOW!

If I had a camera with me, I could've shown you Sarah sleeping in her bed (at 11:00 in the morning!) with 3 pillows, 2 fleece blankets and a quilt, Jake, Buster, AND Spencer!

If I had a camera with me, I could've shown you me.....tired, stressed, busy, and BLESSED!

The Colors of Me

2006-09-06T17:08:00.000-07:00

I feel white
When I'm in control and no one can stop me
I feel white

I feel red
When I'm angry and losing control
I feel red

I feel orange
When I catch my second wind
I feel orange

I feel yellow
When I'm happy about things in my life
I feel yellow

I feel purple
When I know I'll be with him
I feel purple

I feel green
When I'm sick or confused about things
I feel green

I feel brown
When things are not going as they should
I feel brown

I feel blue
When I'm lonely or depressed
I feel blue

I feel black
When I'm lost within myself
I feel black

I feel clear
When I don't understand what I'm feeling
I feel clear

My New Car

2006-09-04T19:38:00.000-07:00

Well, after spending a couple of days on the internet researching, and another couple of days driving everything I thought I might be interested in, on Saturday, Brad and I bought a new car. It is BEAUTIFUL!! It is a 2006 Acura TSX. It is pearl white, with parchment leather interior and all the bells and whistles I could ask for. It has a voice activated everything from the navigation system, to the phone, to the radio or cd player, to even the air conditioner! It has a sun and moon roof, wood trim, memory seats that even heat up. The outside mirrors even have heaters for cold days! I feel spoiled! It sure feel luxurious, too! Can't wait to take you for a ride! Here is my new car....

Cooking with Lisa

2006-08-29T10:17:00.000-07:00

Okay, a few months ago we decided to start eaten more healthy: not necessarily always on Weight Watchers, but healthier. I purchased two cookbooks, which I love. 1: Better Homes and Gardens "New Dieter's Cookbook" and Betty Crocker's "Healthy New Choices". The first one has pictures of every recipe as well as the nutritional information, and the 2nd has many pictures as well. I like to see what it's supposed to look like anyway! Last night we tried "Chicken with Apples and Sage" on page 300 of the New Dieter's Cookbook. It was a wonderful array of flavors mixed together. We had it with Uncle Ben's rice with vegetables, corn, catelope slices, reduced fat crescent rolls, and black olives. If you are counting points on WW, a serving of the chicken is 5 points, the roll with the "I can't believe it's not butter light is 2 points, the olives and canteloupe each are 1 point and the corn was also 1 point. With the Crystal Light to drink, the whole meal was 10 points! That's not too bad for dinner. We had gingerbread sprinkled lightly with powdered sugar for dessert. This was another 4 points. Anyway, here is the recipe:

4 skinless, boneless chx breast halves
1/8 tsp salt
nonstick cooking spray
1 cup apple juice or cider
1 red or green sweer pepper, cut into 1" pieces
1/4 cup chopped onion
1 close garlic, minced
1-1/2 tsp snipped fresh sage or 1/2 tsp dried sage
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 TBSP cornstarch
1 TBSP cold water
2 med green and/or red cooking apples, sliced

1. Sprinkle chx w/salt. Coast an unheated large skillet with spray. Preheat over med-high heat. Add chx: cook for 8-10 minutes or until chx is tender and not pink, turning once. Remove from skillet:keep warm.

2. Add apple juice, sweet pepper, onion, garlic, dried sage (if using), and pepper to skillet. Bring to boiling: reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 2 minutes

3. In a small bowl combine cornstarch and cold water: stir into mixgture in skillet.

Stir apple. Cook and stir until thickened and bubbly. Cook and stir for 2 minutes more. If using, stir in the fressh sage. Return the chx to the skillet: heat through.

ENJOY!

Spontinaety

2006-08-27T18:55:00.000-07:00

Did you ever wake up on Friday and decide you didn't want to be home over the weekend? Where to go is all you can think about. Brad and I did that. We started our quest by hurrying to get the work done at S&S, then clean the house, do the dishes and the laundry, and pay the bills due that week. Then onto the computer to destination shop. We started with the thought of going up the coast towards Santa Barbara and couldn't figure out how far we wanted to go or where to stay. So we headed down the coast toward Balboa Bay, or Coronado Island...no...no...no.... Then we investigated Catalina Island, but you cannot stay a single night there in the summer, so our ventures turned towards Long Beach. We discovered a great summer weekend package offered by the Queen Mary. We went down there Saturday around lunch time, visited the ship, took the Ghosts and Legends tour, ate dinner at the Promenade Cafe, and rested in a beautfiul stateroom. We watched The Break Up on the movie channel before turning in for not a very good night sleep. Sarah woke me up 4 or 5 times saying she was scared of the dark, but wouldn't get up to turn on the light. She finally did, and we slept with the lights on. We woke up to a giant Carnival Crusie ship out our port hole, which was kind of funny. You know how sometimes you wake up a little bit disoriented? Well imagine going to sleep in a docked ship and waking to the sound of the ships horn, followed my messages of how to get your luggage and get of the ship. For a brief moment, my dreamy head transported me back to the day we departed from our Bahamas cruise 3 years ago. Then I woke up! BUMMER! Anyway, we had a nice, relaxing breakfast, then was off the the Aquarium of the Pacific. It sure is beautfiul there, with so much to see and learn. We stopped in Downey for a small "flashback" at Frantones Pizza and Spaghetti Villa. I havn't been there since I was a little girl! Still takes as good as I remember, too! Anyway, we picked up Buster and headed for Apple Valley. What a fun weekend we had. Can't wait until we can make another last minute vacation. Just wanted to share these photos.....

August Birthday Party

2006-08-27T18:24:00.000-07:00

You know...everytime we get together, it gets to be more and more fun watching these kids have fun. In their faces you see the joy of being with one another, each loving the other more each time they see them. It is such a joy watching the little ones grow up...and how fast they do that! Don't you wish you could put these days ina bottle and savor them whenever you want? I imagine being able to create a real snow globe of these events, lining them all up on a special shelf to enjoy each and every day. Here are the rest of the photos.....ENJOY!

Harriet the Spy

2006-08-08T17:12:00.000-07:00

Okay, so I asked Sarah is she remembers Harriett the Spy. She said NO!!!!! For those of you even remotely are close to our family, you'll understand why this through me into oblivon! KIDS!!!!!!!!

8th Grade

2006-08-07T08:25:00.000-07:00

Today is Sarah's first day of school. She looked like a million dollars, but was very nervous. She's growing up way too fast for me......

Let's Go Camping

2006-08-06T09:04:00.000-07:00

Last week we went camping. It was a great week, with the best weather we'd seen around here in a month. As a matter of fact, the first night it was so cold and rainy that Brad had to bring extra jackets and sweatshirts back to camp with him after work. We camped with Teresa, Wayne, Cameron and Cris for the second year in a row. This year Kim, Matthew and Trevor joined us for the first time. To round things out, James and Deana were there as well. Honestly, it was a great week. We'd had our moments of 7 separate sets of hormones, attitudes, and moods, but for the most part, it was a fabulous week Buster and Spencer were there, and to add some spice to the week, Spencer went for a run not once, not twice, but three times during the week. It was all okay though, we used those dogs to get our exercise, walking them some days 4 times!

A couple of weeks ago, Cameron and Cris were scheduled to go to YMCA camp, but their camp was cancelled due to those horrible fires that started out in the desert and made their way up to Big Bear. They were very dissapointed. We decided it would be fun to creat some extra fun during our camp by including their themed night at our camp, complete with some coordinating activites. On Tuesday, we had Hawaiian day. The kids all got dressed up. We had a limbo contest after dinner. You should have been there. I've never seen anyone bend like Cameron did! He could bend in half backwards and hold it, all the while, his ankles were supporting him completely bent in half! I was busy holding the limbo pole, and forgot to take any pictures. Kim got pictures of this night though, so hopefully she'll share them with us.

On Thursday, Brad and I went to work, but brought Sarah and Deana home with us. Sarah had to take some math tests for placement at her new school, which starts tomorrow, and Deana required new glasses, thanks to some rough housing with Trevor. The girls spent the afternoon at the country club. When we got back to camp, we had Retro Night. It was so much fun. The pictures of that night are found here. The boys were John Lennon, Ozzie Osborne, and hippies. Deana was the perfect flower child, and Sarah looked just like Jan Brady. I even got into the act with my retro find from Goodwill. I was told I looked like Alice, from the Brady Bunch. Honestly, sometimes I feel like Alice. The kids had a disco dance off for their activity. It was too much fun. Teresa, Kim and I finished the eve off with our own rendition of Last Dance with Donna Summer!

Friday was fishing day. It was the most amazing day. Papa took the day off work to join the kids at the lake. With just a short casting lesson, each and every one of the kids was casting their own line into the lake! They didn't all bait their own hooks though, or untangle their lines....seems I still remember how to do all that! Every one of those kids caught fish. We were fishing for catfish, but they were all sleeping, so blue-gill it was. Between them, they must have brought in 36-40 fish! James caught the most with 10. They were all thrown back, but only one of them didn't make it. Deana caught the last fish and the smallest, but ended up with two before we were finished. Here are the fishing pix...

About 6 hours after we started, we had to pry the kids away from fishing to have our pirate night. Boy, was that fun. We all dressed as pirates and had a cannon ball fight....adults against the kids. I'm not sure who won, but the adults looked a little bit wet to me! Here are those pictures. Well, Saturday was here before we were ready. We are already planning next year's camping trip. We have have requests for more to join us. I plan to learn the rules of entertaining a group up there. Maybe Joleen, Alex, Aimee and Vince can join us next year! The more the merrier....

The Face of 14

2006-07-27T15:24:00.000-07:00

Well, today my last born child turned 14 years old. That makes me how old?????? Yesterday she chose chicken breasts, wild rice, and brussel sprouts for dinner. Yes, your read it right. I actually have a child who chooses brussel sprouts for her birthday dinner. Of course, she also chose spice cake with purple frosting. Now I think that each of my girls chooses spice cake for their birthday. Do they really like it or do they choose it 'cause it's my favorite? Makes me wonder.....

Anyway, the frosting was actually cream cheese frosting with the help of blue and red food coloring and some purple sprinkles. It was a quiet dinner, as it didn't include any other family members, but I think this is what we have to get used to. As our family grows up and each starts their own families, traditions take on new faces. This face is one of a 14 year old who would still rather hang with Mom and Dad then go to a friend's house, one who still gets excited about going to Chuck E Cheese's, and will spend her birthday Target money on a sidewalk chalk games to play with a two year old. I love her tender heart. Part of me hopes she'll never change......

We woke up this morning, and of course, she had spice cake for breakfast. I figure, once a year it won't kill her. I did, however, manage to get most of a banana down her before dropping her off for camp. It'll be a rough week for her.....she's at SPA CAMP. That's right, she has five whole days of pedicures, manicures, facials, makeup, and hair do's. She'll get all the other regular camp stuff too, but she doesn't care about any of that. Can't wait to hear all about it.

On another note....is it just because I'm getting older, or because the reality is setting in that my girls are all growing up and will all be gone in a blink of an eye. I have been dropping kids off to Girl Scout camp since Aimee and Joleen were in the first grade. That's a lot of camps. I've put each one of my 4 girls on a bus to camp many times over, but each and every time I tear up when it's time to say goodbye. I know she'll be back in a few days, so why do I do that? Is it because I'm relinquishing control? Do I even really have control in the first place?

I know....we'll blame it on hormones. Let's blame everything on hormones......

Meet Spencer...

2006-07-09T18:29:00.000-07:00

Okay, since it's been so long since I've published anything, I thought I do two today! (You're impressed, aren't you?) Anyway, this is Spencer. Hopefully, he will become a permanent member of the Skeels' home. While I was at the hair salon yesterday, my hair dresser and I were talking. Seems she had just rescued this dog from the street about 3 weeks ago, and we were getting ready to adopt a dog in about 3 weeks. She hung "found" posters, placed an ad and asked around, but no one claimed him. Since she already has four dogs, two horses and two parrots, she could not keep this one. She also works for the Hesperia Zoo and trains productions pets including two baby tigers! She was willing to allow us to bring Spencer (she called him Spot) home to see how he and Buster would get along. Let me just tell you, that these two dogs were buddies from the moment they met, so we don't see a problem at all. Spencer is an English Pointer, about 2 years old. He has already been neutered, housebroken, and trained. He is extrememly docil, and very nice. It's funny, 'cause Buster is a tiny lap dog who thinks he's a big boy, and Spencer is a big boy who thinks he's a lap dog! I don't know what he weighs yet, but trust me....he's NOT a lap dog! The internet said this breed weighs from 44 to 60 pounds. His teeth and gums look wonderful and his coat shines beautifully. I can't believe no one is missing him, because someone took great care with him. Anyway, here are some pictures of him. Can't wait for you to meet him!

Sarah.....14 going on 21

2006-07-09T18:16:00.000-07:00

Okay, Okay....I know it's been Mother's Day for quite some time now, but if you don't mind cutting me a little bit of slack, I'd appreciate it very much. Sarah is quickly approaching her 14th birthday. This year she asked us for eyeliner and contact lenses. Well, I finally gave in to the eyeliner.....brown only, but am making her wait on the contacts at least another year. She's been asking to have her hair highlighted for at least a year now. We settled on that. It's beautiful, although I threatened to not pay the hair stylist 'cause she took my little girl from me while we were in her shop! Here she is showing off a bit!

Beautiful "Mother's Day" Sunday

2006-05-14T07:57:00.000-07:00

Happy Mother's Day everyone! I hope your family makes you feel as special as mine does. While packing up the garage a couple of weeks ago, I found this treasure that I want to share with you.

Mothers Day, 1998

My Mom is really great, in a special kind of way,
She lets me do a lot,
Which is more than my friends can say.
I love my Mom with all my heart,
Because she loved me from the start.
With my Mom I'm very fond,
Together we share a special bond.
Since I was a baby, my Mom put up with me,
Even through my terrible twos,
My Mom I did not lose.
From four to seven, independent I grew,
I didn't always say how much I really needed you.
Now I'm a teen, with me you have not a doubt,
Until I brought home a boy, you said,
"Define going out!"
No matter how old I get,
I know you'll always be there,
So now I'd like to tell you how much I really care!
I love you, Mom, Happy Mothers Day
Love, Aimee

I wish I could've found the box that had the poem that Sarah wrote for me in kindergarten. Back then, she perceived my as 18 feet tall and weighing a huge 30 pounds!

I remember when Joleen was little, about 4 or 5, she drew a picture of me, complete with a HUGE smile and all my teeth! She even colored my teeth yellow! That Mother's Day card is also tucked away in a special box.

The first Mother's Day that we shared with Deana came a very short while after she came to live with us. She was attending the Upland Head Start Preschool. She made me a bouquet of flowers on construction paper with macaroni that had been dyed.

Now, even though I've never been the "mother figure" in their lives, Sherry and Michelle never forget to call me on Mother's Day to acknowledge my presence in their lives. It makes me feel good.

I have 23 years of fabulous Mother's Day memories. From my very first one in 1983 to today, 2006...Thank you girls. I love you.

This is my inspiration for happiness...

BEAUTIFUL SUNDAY

2006-04-23T06:00:00.000-07:00

Don't you love spring???

Simply Smitten - Easter Sunday

2006-04-22T17:56:00.000-07:00

smile!!!!
MMMMMM!
Where's that egg?
Deana's new do...
Not a little girl anymore

The Best Years of my LIfe...

2006-04-21T19:57:00.000-07:00

With my 42nd birthday having just passed, I've taken some time over the past few days to ponder over life in my forties. Can I just tell you that, so far, these have been the best years of my life. Since turning 40 (or slightly before that), I accomplished so much (not in any particular order) We've graduated two of our girls from high school and have had the honor of watching my them marry the men of their dreams. I've overcome and learned to manage an illness that made a huge attempt at debilitating me. We've gone into business for ourselves, and against all odds, are keeping the door open! We've gone into a phase of life where things are available financially that never used to be. We've turned the ugly duckling house on the block, into a beautiful home. I've lost 35 pounds (and gain a few back!), been going regularly to a gym now for almost 2 years! Have gone down from a size 16 to a 10-12 and pretty much stayed there. I started my own stamping business (a craft I never had even tried before) and still teach classes, host clubs and workshops, and make all of my own greeting cards. I re-taught myself to crochet, and boy, have I crocheted! I actually completed one of my promised scrapbooks (I hope to get the next one done before I'm in my fifties!) I've very much enjoyed watching Aimee grasp onto her future as a nurse. (although sometimes it's a ittle hard to bear as her Mom with the stress and everything). I've really been proud to think somehow I've had a little something to do with Joleen's artistic ability. (A little?) I've watched Sarah grow from a little girl into a beautiful, compassionate, young lady. We are still experienceing the growth of Deana as she learns to accept life and live it. The visits with her are getting more and more enjoyable and hopeful for her future with us. I really enjoyed serving at church; especially in the aspect of worship. It is one of the highlights of my life. There have been sad times too. Letting go of my girls as they embarked on their new lives as wives. As hard as that was it wasn't as hard as letting Joleen go away to Oregon for school That was hard! Yogi's death and the whole experience was seriously traumatic. Having to decide to send Deana away for help was particularly difficult. Sarah's accidents (her wrist and her face) I could have lived a lifetime without experiencing. Living through the family stressers like with sisters and Dads and things like that were difficult to bear at times. In looking at it all, there is one common denominator....God. He, in all his Glory has been faithful in holding me up through the hard times and rejoicing with me in the happy times. I love my new church and love serving our Lord in it. After more than two years of church stress and stagnant living, it really feels good to be in a place where we can actually do God's work again. Best of all, I have a great marraige. I was so lucky to marry my best friend. Brad and I are experiencing a oneness that I could not have imagined earlier in my life. I know I have God to thank for that as well. I truely have enjoyed watching him grow in his walk with God. Anyway, I am so blessed and so thankful and I just wanted to share that and say thank you for all being a part of my life. I love it and I love you! Happy Birthday To Me!

{got ya}

2006-04-21T15:36:00.000-07:00

spring has sprung!
xo,
joleen

BEAUTIFUL SUNDAY

2006-03-26T07:00:00.000-08:00

Now, that's beautiful!!!!!!

CATCHIN' UP!

2006-03-24T20:51:00.000-08:00

Well, I did take these pictures to share, so even though they're late, they're here! The boys have finally decided to share resting space. Here they are on Buster's pirch on the back of the sofa. I think they're part cat.

Here is Aimee's surprise bday party. She almost got us, though, when we thought she was going to leave after she discovered we had surprised her! The game we played was hysterical! Aimee really got into it!

These pictures are from our birthday celebration for Joleen at Downtown Disney. We had a grand time. She had a little bit of difficulty blowing out her candles, though. For some strange reason, they kept re-lighting themselves! (Imagine that!)

Finally, here are some recent pictures of the boys. They sure get into a lot of michief. They're shown sharing a chew toy...NOT! It's a piece of firewood that they stole.

I promise to try to get the next set of pictures out before they're 3 weeks old! (maybe)

Beautiful Sunday

2006-03-05T07:00:00.000-08:00

Isn't life beautiful when you have someone to take your nap with? Isn't it beautiful when you can bask in the sun with a friend? One of my favorite beautiful moments is Brad and I crawl into bed at night and I back into "my spot" where I fit so perfectly against him, just for one small, cuddling moment. What is one of your favorite, beautiful moments?

February Bdays

2006-03-02T08:54:00.000-08:00

Well, I found my charger to the camera and was able to retrieve the photos from our Beautiful Sunday. Since it's Thursday.....well, you get the idea. Sorry I couldn't get everyone opening their gifts. My battery died. I did get lots and lots of people. Who invited ALL these people, anyhow! It was great fun and as always a little chaotic, but personally, I wouldn't have it any other way. I took great enjoyment in standing back watching everyone interact. We're quite a family. Grandpa was taking inventory of everyone and was curious about all the extras. I told him we just threw them in to see if he was paying attention. In addition to our entire family, we were glad to see Vivian, Carmen, Skylar and Shelby and Laura's new friend, Mark. Just think what it would be like if Mom wasn't an only child!!!!!!!!!! Here are the pics...enjoy.

Dirty Little Secrets of Early Motherhood, final part

2006-03-01T07:48:00.000-08:00

Myth 3: Breastfeeding comes "naturally"

Contrary to popular belief, breastfeeding must be learned by both mother and baby. The only thing that comes "naturally" is baby's suck reflex and mom's thought that, "This Sucks!"

Learning how to breastfeed is on my list of Top Ten Worst Experiences of My Life. Hell hath no fury like a newborn baby gnawing at your bosom.

In the hospital, I nicknamed my son, "Barracuda Baby" for his deadly bite. Each time he latched onto my breast, I was screaming inside. After two weeks, I almost gave up. I can't tell you how many nights I cried as I nursed my son during those early days. I was an on-call milk truck - a thankless, around-the-clock job.

Thank goodness there was a rainbow at the end of the storm. I never would have come this far without the support from a wonderul lactation nurse and the encouragement of my awesome husband. I'm glad I stuck it out past the first few weeks.

My son is now two months old and I can honestly say I enjoy breastfeeding. He's growing and thriving and I'm proud that I have everything to do with that.

Dirty Little Secrets of Early Motherhood, part 2

2006-02-27T15:57:00.000-08:00

Myth #2: You bond immediately with your newborn baby.

It takes time to nurture any relationship. Why would a mother's connection with her newborn be any different? The moment my son was born, I didn't feel an immediate kinship with him. It was strange, it wasn't like it's portrayed in the movies or on TV. There was no euphoria, no tears of joy. To be honest, my tears were ones of relief. I was glad he had arrived safely and wasn't in my body anymore.

Since the childbirth experience had taken every ounce of strength and emotion in me, I felt like I had nothing left to give. I was numb. When the nurses brought me my new bundle, I remember holding his tiny body and wondering, "Who are you?"

Once I healed and felt more normal, the true bonding began. Now if you ask me how I feel about my newborn, in two seconds flat, I'll tell you I can't imagine my life without him.

to be continued...

Dirty Little Secrets of Motherhood, part one

2006-02-27T08:12:00.000-08:00

This morning I treated myself to a slower paced start to my day. After taking Sarah to school, I came back home to make sure the house was ready to show at a moments notice and to read the paper while enjoying my Frosted Mini Wheats, instead of devouring it to run in the usual fashion. Anyway, Another first...I read a column instead of a new article. It was hysterical and so very true, so I wanted to share it with you.

This was written by Jennifer Cho Salaff:

"On Dec. 19, 2005 at 8:56 pm, Caden Chi-Sung Salaff arrived - exactly on his due date. My son was born with a full head of hair (my husband and I joke that I gave birth to a little man), a healthy set of lungs (which he loves to exercise, much to my heartache) and the cutest new-born face on the planet (a purely objective opinion, of course)."

When a baby is born and motherhood begins, the world celebrates. Flowers arrive, cigars are handed out, birth announcements are mailed. It's a glorious time to marvel in new life.

But there are dirty little secrets in early motherhood, too. No one dares talk about them. Perhaps it's taboo. Maybe first-time moms simply forget.

The initial period of adjusting to a new baby, a different body and a new role as "Mom" were the most difficult and grueling of my life. Myth versus reality became very clear to me during those first few week.

Myth #1: The hardest part is over following childbirth.
Recovery is an aggressive, unforgiving beast. After 15 hours of labor and a near C-section, I was convinced the worst was over and the best part - bonding with my baby - was about to begin. Little did I realize recovery would be just as harrowing as labor and delivery.

I remember looking at myself in the hospital bathroom shortly after I had given birth. "Who is this pitiful, haggard woman?" I thought as I studied my sorry face: swollen cheeks: puffy, bloodshot eyes: hair wild and unkept. I looked like like a homeless woman, not the glowing, new mom I had imagined.

My body felt mulitated. Every inch of it ached. Simple tasks like walking or sitting almost brought me to tears. Not to mention the fact that I ought to have had an Under Construction sign "down there."

That's why every woman who has endured childbirth should recieve a "Wish me luck on the road to recovery" T-shirt before leaving the hospital.

To Be Continued....

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!!!!

2006-02-14T18:54:00.000-08:00

I hope everyone's day was fabulous. Mine was! I stuffed everything possible into my day as usual, but when I got home.....Not only did I have these beautiful tulips from Joleen and Aimee (what a wonderful surprise!), and these very pretty mini roses from my wonderful husband, but he had cooked me the best dinner I've had in a very long time. I wish I could cook like that. I asked him if we could come to this restaraunt again soon, and he said "yes"! Thank you to my wonderful family for making my day so special. I love you......

Goodbye Maggie...

2006-02-05T18:42:00.000-08:00

Well, today Maggie went to live with another family. It was a very difficult decision to make this week, one both Brad and I struggled to make. Maggie has been getting more and more aggressive at the front door lately. She has even growled at both Brad and I while we were trying to leave the house several times lately. On Thursday, she flat out attacked me at the door. She didn't bite me, but she sounded very mean and was coming at me. I had to push her back in with my foot. We don't think she'd bite someone, but we are unwilling to take that chance. One dog bite in our family by a family dog is enough for all of us for a lifetime. We could not live with ourselves. She went to a very nice older couple. They don't have as much activity around their home. They have a very large yard and allow their dogs to be part of the family inside their home. They have always had two dogs, but recently their older dog died. Their younger dog is very lonely. They own a small ranch syle home and property in Pomona along with Betsy (their border terrier) and their two cats. Although we are sad, we feel we did the right thing. It's just not worth the chance to us. I kept invisioning her snapping at Emily or Gracie and we can't have that. We will miss her.

Anyone wanna buy a house?

2006-02-02T19:47:00.000-08:00

Since there may never be a time again when my house is this clean, I thought you HAD to see it! Do you think it's worth $670,000? Check this out!!!!!!!

Who's kissing who??????

2006-02-02T19:44:00.000-08:00

Is David kissing Buster or is Buster kissing David?????????

VALENTINE

2006-02-01T11:17:00.000-08:00

Since all of my photos and blog ideas are still stuck in my camera, I wanted to share this little Valentine with you all. I know it's early, but I like it! I have no ideas why it keeps moving my text, but you'll get the idea. I keep typing it where my red letters are lined up, but it's posessed! Maybe Joleen can fix it!

For God so loV ed the world,
That He gA ve
His onL y
BegottE n
SoN
T hat whosoever
Believeth I n Him
Should N ot perish,
But have E verlasting life."

John 3:16

Laugh Out Loud.....

2006-01-14T13:50:00.000-08:00

Okay, I know this is definately going to sound wierd, but do you ever try to make words out of the letters you have to copy before posting to a blog? It's fun! Try it sometime. :}
After reading about Aimee who posted happy birthday to her dog, but forgot her husband, my letters were "pupstr" Pupster! I though I was talking about Aimee! Then when I posted on Hot Dogs and Pnut Butter, my letters were swvirhi. I HAVE NO IDEA!!!!! But it's fun to try. LOL LOL LOL LOL

Friday the 13th

2006-01-13T19:55:00.000-08:00

Well, by now you all know how my day went today, but I'll share it with you anyhow....
A young man ran through a stop sign today as I approached the intersection. I had nowhere to go except into a metal light pole or into his suburban. The suburban did better than I did. I need a new hood, both right and left quarter panels and bumper. Thankfully neither Sarah nor I were hurt too terribly bad, although my body doesn't know that! They tell me not to expect my car until February 19th. This won't work, as my rental car coverage is for only 30 days. mmmmnnnnn let's do that math. Once again, God watched over me and my family, to which I am very grateful. Thank you God.

Black salt?

2005-12-23T09:37:00.000-08:00

Okay, so I've been running so hard, or flat sick in bed, that I havn't blogged. I have about 3 backed up in my digital camera that I will get to very soon. For now, here's a funny story.
As you know, a couple of weeks ago Mom (Judy) was here for a visit. In one particularly slow day, she decided to help me out. She cleaned out my refrigerator, and my medicine cabinet, and anything else she could find. One of the things she cleaned was my white tupperware salt and pepper shakers. You know, they are the ones that we used to have way back when, but now we just take camping....the ones with the flip top lids? Anyway, Now instead of one being stained with pepper and the other one white from the salt, they are both white. Very white.
A couple of nights ago when Aimee was having her terrible, horrible, very bad, no good day, she came to my house very sick. Of course mamma was going to baby her a little bit. So, I made her cream of wheat. I went to sprinkle a little bit of salt into the milk I was heating, and was I surprised when the salt came out black!!!!! Yes, I did sprinkle pepper into her cream of wheat. You should have seen me trying to get it out with the paper towel. I finished that cream of wheat with a sprinkle of cinnamon. Hopefully, she didn't notice!

It's my birthday and I wasn't even invited to the party

2005-12-12T16:42:00.000-08:00

As you well know, we are getting closer to my birthday. Every year there is a celebration in my honor and I think that this year the celebration will be repeated. During this time there are many people shopping for gifts, there are many radio announcements, TV commercials and in every part of the world everyone is talking that my birthday is getting closer and closer.
It is really very nice to know, that at least once a year, some people think of me. As you know, the celebration of my birthday began many years ago. At first people seemed to understand and be thankful of all that I did for them, but in these times, no one seems to know the reason for the celebration.

Family and friends get together and have a lot of fun, but they don't know the meaning of the celebration. I remember that last year there was a great feast in my honor. The dinner table was full of delicious foods, pastries, fruits, assorted nuts and chocolates. The decorations were exquisite and there were many, many beautifully wrapped gifts. But, do you want to know something? I wasn't invited.

I was the guest of honor and they didn't remember to send me an invitation. The party was for me, but when that great day came, I was left outside, they closed the door in my face......... and I wanted to be with them and share their table. In truth, that didn't surprise me because in the last few years all close their doors to me.

Since I was not invited, I decided to enter the party without making any noise.
I went in and stood in a corner. They were all drinking; there were some who were drunk and telling jokes and laughing at everything. They were having a great time. To top it all, this big fat man all dressed in red wearing a long white beard entered the room yelling Ho-Ho-Ho! He seemed drunk. He sat on the sofa and all the children ran to him, saying: "Santa Claus, Santa Claus!"... as if the party were in his honor! At 12 midnight all the people began to hug each other; I extended my arms waiting for someone to hug me and.... do you know what.... no one hugged me.

Suddenly they all began to share gifts. They opened them one by one with great expectation. When all had been opened, I looked to see if, maybe, there was one for me. What would you feel if on your birthday everybody shared gifts and you did not get one? I then understood that I was unwanted at that party and quietly left. Every year it gets worse. People only remember to eat and drink, the gifts, the parties and nobody remembers me. I would like this Christmas that you allow me to enter into your life. I would like that you recognize the fact that almost two thousand years ago I came to this world to give my life for you, on the cross, to save you.

Today, I only want that you believe this with all you heart. I want to share something with you. As many didn't invite me to their party, I will have my own celebration, a grandiose party that no one has ever imagined, a spectacular party. I'm still making the final arrangements.

Today I am sending out many invitations and there is an invitation for you. I want to know if you wish to attend and I will make a reservation for you and write your name with golden letters in my great guest book. Only those on the guest list will be invited to the party. Those who don't answer the invitation will be left outside. Do you know how you can answer this invitation? It is by extending it to others whom you care for... I'll be waiting for all of you to attend my party this year... See you soon....

I love you!
-Jesus-

REMEMBER TO TAKE A BREATH DURING THE HOLIDAY SEASON

2005-12-12T08:33:00.000-08:00

This was emailed to me this morning. I wanted to share it with you all......
Have a blessed day.......

When things in your lives seem almost too much to
handle, when 24 hours in a day are not enough,
remember the mayonnaise jar and the 2 cups of coffee.

A professor stood before his philosophy class and had
some items in front of him. When the class began, he
wordlessly picked up a very large and empty mayonnaise
jar and proceeded to fill it with golf balls. he then
asked the students if the jar was full. They agreed
that it was.

The professor then picked up a box of pebbles and
poured them into the jar. He shook the jar lightly.
The pebbles rolled into the open areas between the
golf balls. he then asked the students again if the
jar was full. They agreed it was.

The professor next picked up a box of sand and poured
it into the jar. Of course, the sand filled up
everything else. He asked once more if the jar was
full. The students responded with a unanimous "yes."

The professor then produced two cups of coffee from
under the table and poured the entire contents into
the jar effectively filling the empty space between
the sand. The students laughed.

"Now," said the professor as the laughter subsided, "I
want you to recognize that this jar represents your life.
The golf balls are the important things--your
family, your children, your health, your friends and
your favorite passions--and if everything else was
lost and only they remained, your life would still be full.

The pebbles are the other things that matter like your
job, your house and your car.

The sand is everything else--the small stuff. "If
you put the sand into the jar first," he continued,
"there is no room for the pebbles or the golf balls.
The same goes for life. If you spend all your time
and energy on the small stuff
you will never have room for the things
that are important to you.

"Pay attention to the things that are critical to your
happiness. Play with your children. Take time to get
medical checkups. Take your spouse out to dinner.
Play another 18. There will always be time to clean
the house and fix the disposal. Take care of the golf
balls first--the things that really matter. Set your
priorities. The rest is just sand."

One of the students raised her hand and inquired what
the coffee represented. The professor smiles. "I'm glad you asked.

It just goes to show you that no matter how full your
life may seem, there's always room for a couple of
cups of coffee with a friend."

Lake Tahoe

2005-12-02T17:28:00.000-08:00

Okay, so I know I'm late in getting my photos out, but I already explained why in my last post. We had an absolutely fabulous time in Lake Tahoe. Although it was cold, and it snowed, and we weren't dressed appropriately, we truely have no complaints. It was a wonderful time of relaxation, fun, games, food and more food, crafts, sight seeing, and running from freezing rain. Although the drive was long and tedious (thanks, Alex!) I would love to go back again someday. maybe in the late spring or early summer. It is a beautiful place right in our own backyard. I can't believe we'd never been there! Anyway, enjoy the photos!

It must be the holiday season....

2005-12-01T19:02:00.000-08:00

Well, It must be the holiday season, because my day is short about 6 hours each day. Man!, where does the time go? I just got an email from Joleen wondering where I've been. I'm not sure, but I am sure of one thing...I've been running! I hope I got somewhere! I'd hate to think this has all been for nothing! We got back from our little holiday on Sunday night. Couldn't wait to crawl into bed, so we unpacked quickly, and that's exactly what we did. Monday, I worked all day, trying to catch up having not worked since the previous Tuesday. Then it was off to bowling. Have I told you we've been bowling our butts off lately? Well, a story for another time. Tuesday, I worked, and then ran about 6 errands. Had to finish up the Christmas shopping. Yes, I did say finished! One of those errands was to replace the all-too-feminine Christmas stocking that I bought Alex with one a little more manly. Hopefully red is his color. Sarah had an orthodontist appt on Tuesday to get her top braces finished. They added the wire and red and green bands. She is definately in the Christmas spirit. I also designed our company Christmas cards. I printed the mailing labels and ordered 125 copies of our Christmas photo that Aimee took for us. On Wednesday, I didn't go into the office, but stayed home to catch up on chores. I took the dogs to the groomer to get beautiful They are getting their pictures taken with Santa on Saturday! Yes, they are! Then, Brad and I worked together to come up with the inside verse for our company Christmas cards and I printed it on all 125 cards. As soon as the pictures get here, I'll adhere them and send these out. By the eveningI was finished with my 50 Christmas cards and had printed my mailing labels. Then I finished 25 boxes for a swap I'm participating in tomorrow evening. Then with time to spare before bed, I designed 5 samples of Christmas cards that I am trying to sell to a self employed friend for her company cards. Today, after work, I went to a funeral of a bowling friend, then picked up Sarah, went to the post office, the bank, Joann's and back to the orthodontist for an adjustment on a wire that was grabbing her cheek. We went to dinner as there was no way I was cooking. Now I am making an attempt to finish laundry and clean up from my creativity the past few days. I have to get Deana's room ready for Grandma who will be arriving to stay at our home for 5 days on Saturday. Tomorrow, I will go to work, then to Maryvale for family therapy, then to my Stampin Up meeting/dinner. By Saturday, If I'm not dead yet, I plan to take Sarah to the Upland Christmas parade, finish up the house, collect Grandma at the airport, take Sarah and the pooches to the mall for Santa pictures. Sunday will be my day of rest. Right? I hope to post my Thanksgiving pictures within the next couple of days so check back with me! Hugs from a tired me.........

Food For Thought.....

2005-11-22T16:33:00.000-08:00

Ever thought you would be excited to pay $2.33 gallon for gas????????

The Majesty of the Sky

2005-11-21T21:36:00.000-08:00

This evening as we were getting ready to leave for the bowling alley, I went outside and this is what it looked like. Isn't it amazing? I couldn't figure out where the red was coming from, but I thought it was beautiful. Within about 5 minutes, it began to dissipate, and then it was gone. I'm so glad I didn't miss it!

Our Thanksgiving Celebration

2005-11-19T21:19:00.000-08:00

Today we celebrated Thanksgiving. It was a perfect day. Joleen, Alex and Carmen was here. Aimee and Vince was here. They brought Aimee's friend Christy with them. Carol, our next door neighbor was here too! Add in Brad, Sarah, and myself and we had quite a bunch. The food was to die for, and there was just enough to enjoy without having to eat it for days afterwards. Add to our day, magnificent weather, music in the background, puppies and babies, and lots of laughs and you have a recipe for a perfect day. In the morning, Aimee, Vince, Sarah and Christy went to see Harry Potter. In the evening, Joleen and Alex left Carmen with us and went to see it themselves. While they were gone, we took Carmen and Sarah to the mall for something to do to pass the time. Seems I'm out of practice with little ones. It took forever to hook her in the stroller! After we got home, I gave her a quick bath, and we were off to bed early. Seems the excitement of the day just wore me out! Tomorrow we will decorate for Christmas since we'll be in Lake Tahoe next week and won't be available to do it then! The neighbor's will wonder what's going on, but oh well.....We pray many blessings on all of your holiday celebrations! Click here for photos.

Isn't He The Sweetest Thing?

2005-11-17T15:11:00.000-08:00

Never in my life would I have imagined faling so deeply in love with an animal. (Other than Brad, of course!) This little dog just melts my heart, even when he's being a little menace like he is right now. He is definately in his terrible twos in dog years! He just looks for trouble to get into. But as with all our children, when they are sleeping, they wear their halos, and for a brief moment we forget the horror of the day. Buster has this habit that I love most of all. Although, it is difficult to tell in this photo, he is actually UNDER my down comforter. He loves to burrow underneath the comforter and curl up in a ball. Then he places that sweet little face of his, right on my stomach or leg or some part of me or Brad and prompty goes to sleep. When I opened the covers to take the picture he had to open his eyes to see what I was doing. Nothing gets by him!

Sarah's New Teeth

2005-11-16T19:54:00.000-08:00

Well, today was a big day for Sarah as we made the first of 3 major trips to the orthodontist for braces. Although she was very nervous, she did very well. I was proud of her as she endured an hour of cheek stretching, mouth drying, metal gluing, rubber band stuffing trauma! I thought she might lose it when the spacers were being shoved in her molars, but she didn't! She'll go back on the 29th for the wires and on December 7th to complete the job. We expect her to wear them 18-24 months. She'll only have top braces for about 4 months while they stretch her bottom jaw wider. When she is all done, there will be a hole next to her eye tooth, where the missing tooth is. For those of you who don't know, she was born with one less tooth than the rest of us. Her retainer will have a false tooth in it, and after awhile, we'll have to get her an implant. I offered her an out, but she was adamant about needing a great smile for her career choice of flight attendant!

Jessica's Baby Shower

2005-11-06T21:23:00.000-08:00

Today, we went to Michelle's house for Jessica's baby shower. It was a great day with lots of family, food and fun. Jessica was there, of course and so was her boyfriend, Taylor. Other than a persistant bladder infection, she is doing well. The doctor says she should be able to carry baby Chase Landon another few weeks, delivering somwhere between November 25th and December 5th (if I remember the dates correctly.) Chase is currently breech and doesn't seem to have room to turn, so she will probably deliver C-section. She received many beautiful gifts. None were less special than the other, but the fleece blanket seemed to be the talk of the town! Seems the grandkids LOVE those blankets. Jessie told us that she has packed hers to take to the hopsital with her. The other grandkids say they never go anywhere without those blankets!

This day was special for Brad and I as we had all of our grandchildren at the same place at the same time. I can't remember if that's ever happened before.

David is turning out to be quite a ham bone. In the slideshow, you'll see him being Superman. He is fearless. I feel sorry for Michelle. He will definately walk early, and will be a hard one to keep track of.

Click here to see a slideshow of our day.

Adjusting

2005-11-04T09:40:00.000-08:00

Adjusting to change is never easy. This has been a big year for adjustments and the hardest ones are yet to come. Having my children grow up and move out of our home was difficult enough. Walking them down the aisle, although a wonderful moment, was sad as well. But, last year, I was doubly blessed when both girls, with new husbands in tow, celebrated the holidays with me. I had them all at Thanksgiving. I had them all Christmas eve. And yes, they all spent the night and we celebrated Christmas together...all day. I was spoiled. This year, there have many many occasions where when we got together we were not all present. Each time, we settled in to our new roles of accepting each other's new lives. Vacation in Hawaii was the most difficult. To finally be able not only to afford a vacation, but to be allowed the time to take, and not be able to take all my children, presented a void in each happy memory. As I sit here this morning and reflect about how to get through the next two months without everyone where I want them, when I want them, I am sad. I also feel guilty for being so selfish. How do I do this? I don't want to let go; I don't like it. I try to compensate, to make arrangements that will finagle them all here for me. It's getting harder and harder. We are close. We are blessed. We speak almost everyday. We email on the days we can't talk. It's not like we are absent from one another. But something is different during the holidays. This one, not only am I missing my married daughters, but my youngest as well. Making the adjustment from completely living every moment taking care of her needs to leaving her in the complete care of someone else has been far more difficult than I had imagined. Halloween was very wierd without her. My little ones were supposed to be the queen's that day, and I don't even know what my youngest did. I have no idea what she looked like. I have no way to find out. She hasn't written in 2-1/2 months. She has never called, even though she has weekly phone privileges. This Thanksgiving, I have found a way to share the traditions of the holidays with 3 out of 4 of my girls, even though it will be in two different days and it means I will have Thanksgiving dinner twice in 5 days. It's worth it to me. In sadness, though, we will not share it with Deana. Another holiday lost. Will she miss it? I wonder. In my heart I don't think so. I fear that she adapted so well to the group home, that she might be better suited for that than in our home. I wonder.... Aimee will celebrate Thanksgiving with me before Thanksgiving, but will be all alone on the actual day. This is hard for me. Joleen will get to go away with us and share Thanksgiving with us, but will not be with us Christmas morning. This is the first Christmas morning in the 22 years I've been a mommy that my daughter will not wake up with me. It's hard. I am happy as she starts new traditions with Alex. I truly am, but still I am sad. Her absence will definitely be noticed. Aimee is spending the night on Christmas Eve, maybe for the last time? Letting go......does it ever get easier?

Halloween, 2005

2005-10-31T21:25:00.000-08:00

Click here to see slideshow of a totally fun Halloween. Erika came with her parents. Emily and Gracie came with their parents too! Sarah was a flight attendant. We worked the fun fair and although it was very busy, it was great fun. All the kids got to ride the ponies and the ferris wheel. Sarah came home with more candy than she can possibly eat. The first pictures are of her and her new friend, Miranda carving the pumpkin. Didn't it come out great! They had so much fun. Hope you all had a great day too!

pumpkin seed blunder

2005-10-30T17:18:00.000-08:00

Okay, so Sarah and her new friend, Miranda carved their Halloween pumpkin yesterday. Then they left me with the pumpkin seeds for roasting. So....I called Joleen for instructions. I got the part about the 2 tablespoons of oil. I got the part about the salt. But did she say 4-5 minutes or 45 minutes? Can I tell you that 15 minutes into the roasting, I heard them popping in the oven. I said to Brad: "Are they supposed to do that?" He didn't know. Then about every 5 minutes after that, I kept checking on them. They sure didn't look right. About 30 minutes into the roasting, I could smell them.. That DEFINITELY wasn't right. So 30 minutes into the 45 I thought they were supposed to cook, I took them out. Yes, I even tasted them. BURNT! Don't tell Sarah, okay? Maybe she'll forget about them. :/

Sundaisies and Doodlebugs....

2005-10-27T14:47:00.000-07:00

Okay, Okay.....you win! I just discovered that Joleen had invaded my blog. I do like it, so no complaints from me. Now if I could just get her to write the blogs for me, I'd be set. I really would write at this moment, but it seems I'm seriously handicapped. I just broke the slide-out tray that holds my keyboard. Now the keyboard is stuck underneath the desk, as it's been bombed by some strange paper bomber that is out on the loose, so I cannot get to it. You don't even want to know how I got this much written. So for now I bid farewell....but I promise my loyal fans (do I have loyal fans?) that I will be back! Blessings.....

{invasion}

2005-10-17T15:23:00.000-07:00

Okay, Mom. I've "made your blog pretty". You really have no other excuse for not writing. It's an easy way to keep in touch, share photos, etc. Plus, if you don't feel like you have anything to say, you don't have to post. :) See how easy it is! ;)

Big Hugs,
Joleen