Big News....

I guess it's time to break the big news to the public...

We are about 10 1/2 wks pregnant! I had my first appointment on May 1 in which I seen a heartbeat!! YAY! That means the world considering we lost our baby in January. So the doc's u/s machine is older and the picture is quite grainy...so she measured me at 8 wks and I figured I should be more like 9 wks. She said that when I come back in 2 wks we'll do another u/s and with the baby being bigger it'll be easier to measure. Right now, I'm going on what I think...and that would mean I'd be due around December 4th. My next appointment is this Thursday and I can't wait!

BIL and new house update

I guess it's high time I post again. Yeesh, where does the time go??

Update on my BIL: He got his trache removed on the 16th, I think it was. Hard to remember now. But he also got the results from the lymph nodes and unfortunately they showed Thyroid Cancer. But first things first, he had an appt with the radiation oncologist on the 24th and was told he needed to see their dentist before the radiation could begin to make sure that where the radiation was going to take place wouldn't affect his teeth. If it were to affect his teeth, it would also affect his jawbone and would cause enough damage to have the jawbone replaced. On the 28th, they went to see the dentist. He had teeth guards casted at that appt. On the 30th, he had a swallow study and follow up with his surgeon. The feed tube was removed! He's eating a soft diet now and doing well from what I'm told. He is healing amazingly well! Tomorrow, I believe, they are going again to the dentist to make sure the guards fit correctly and he is supposed to be fitted for the helmet for radiation and possibly a trial run of radiation. After this, then the date will be determined for him to begin the 6 wks of radiation treatment. He will be having treatments 5 days a week for 6 weeks. Someone has to stay with him during this time and he has to stay near the hospital, which by the way is 2 1/2 to 3 hrs from their home. Needless to say, my sister got right on it and found someone to stay with him the entire time. It won't be the same person but he will be watched after by her, his 2 sisters and also a family friend. Within the next year, he will have to have thyroid surgery though to have it removed due to the found cancer cells and will then be on thyroid meds for the rest of his life. While this all sounds pretty grim at times, he had such a boost when he passed the swallow study and was able to have his feed tube removed. He's very happy to be on a soft diet and he's getting stronger all the time. Thanks for all the thoughts & prayers...they've been appreciated!

Our move date has been decided. We plan to move on Saturday, June 14th. I wish it were sooner but we need to wait til the girls are out of school. It just gives us more time to get all the painting & fixing done beforehand.

I guess that's a good enough update for now. I'll try to post again soon! I know, promises, promises!

Our newly leased home and a few other things

The day after my last post, we signed a lease on this terrific 2,296 sq. ft. house on 2.1 acres in the country! It is absolutely huge and we can't wait to move in. It has 5 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, a laundry room, kitchen and full basement. The basement is not finished, but will definitely serve it's purpose. There is also a 2 car garage, with a loft for Joe's workshop! We are currently painting and getting it ready to move in to. The girls will be leaving our current school when it's out in June and begin a new school in the fall. The elementary and intermediate schools are right down the road, not even a quarter mile. While they are a bit nervous about starting a new school again, I think this will be a great move for us. I like smaller schools, near the country, rather than big city schools. We have also heard from several people that the new school district is one of the best in Michigan. :) I plan to contact the school before this school year is over so they can expect our girls next fall. And I've also checked out their MEAP scores, so I've done a bit of research.

I also traded in my 1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee and got a 2002 Jeep Liberty. The 97 was in need of some expensive repairs coming soon and has not been so reliable as of late. Therefore, the trade in. My Liberty is black and very nice!

My BIL has surgery on 4-3 to remove a cancerous spot in his mouth and also some of the lymph nodes in his neck. After 11 1/2 hrs of surgery, he was finally out, drain tubes and a trache attached. He has been doing very well and was able to go home a day earlier than what was expected. Today he was supposed to go for a check up and I have yet to hear how that went.
Hopefully he had the trache removed today!

So, that's been what's been going on around this neck of the woods. I will try to do better on posting, but we've been quite busy lately. Just about every room in the house is being painted so my weekends have been busy completing those tasks!

Take care - comment when you have time!

Lots going on

and I will update soon! Sorry it's been so long.

More to come....

Two weeks later...

And the doctor says all is well. I had my follow-up appt on Thursday (Happy Valentines Day) and the doctor says I've healed fine. She says to still wait a cycle or two before trying to get pregnant again. The pathology report does not indicate anything out of the ordinary in a miscarriage.

Today is Saturday and I got up, went and walked 17 minutes on the treadmill, 3 times I ran 1 minute, then used some of the upper body machines and finally rode 2.3 miles in 12 minutes on the stationary bike. I think a good way to get started. I treated myself to a Tall Non-Fat Mocha from McD's afterward and ran the rest of my errands. Now I'm home cleaning! I'm going to try to get back to WW routine. I would love to lose about 15 lbs before trying to get pregnant again. That is the goal anyway.

Joe had the first appt of the root canal process this morning. He was so nervous he ended up with hives before the appt. He goes on Wed for a cleaning and then I think the next step is the impression for the crown.

Kimberlee has to have a cavity filled on Monday afternoon and then at 6 I have my taxes done. I can't wait. I'm eager to see how much I'll have to pay in this year. I rolled my 401k from my old job into an IRA and then used it to pay off debts (which was a smart move in my opinion). Now the debts are gone and although I'm sure I'll have to pay in, it begins to build my credit again. We received an annual bonus at work, so I am saving that to pay whatever taxes I'll need to. Then the rest will be saved to use when we find a different place to rent. And I hope we do.

Guess I had better get back to cleaning. This was a nice break, but I have a lot to do while everyone is gone. The girls are at Joe's moms for the weekend and Joe is off ice fishing. The sun is shining and the motivation to get this done is here. Better use it!

After Surgery

Surgery went fine yesterday. The hardest part was the pre-op waiting. The morning seemed to drag on. The girls didn't have school due to the snowfall. I, luckily, had a friend from work that took the day off and she watched the girls while we went to the hospital. It actually was quite weird as the anesthia nurse told me she put something in my I.V. to put me out, I started to feel weird and the next thing I knew the doc was talking to me afterward, waking me up. I had to have her repeat some information she gave me cuz the first time she told me I wasn't totally with it. I experienced some burning afterward, which she gave me some ointment for. But I'm feeling better now.

Not overdoing it, I don't think. Sitting a lot, or laying. But still getting up and doing a little here and there. Joe tends to stay outside a lot, so I do fend for myself, although he tells me to call him if I need him.

So, that's where I'm at now. Relaxing and trying to stay sitting or laying. I go back to work Monday and life starts over again. :)

Tomorrow

Tomorrow I go in for my D & C. Surgery scheduled for 2:30. I know it's not a big deal, but it is. I've never experienced this before. And I tend to wonder why my body didn't do what it should have done when the baby didn't continue to progress. But it's out of my hands and I need to get this "surgery" over with and move on. I'm ready to get back to the gym to lose about 15 lbs and I'm ready to start over on my WW way of life. It'll be a fresh start after healing.

Please keep us in your thoughts tomorrow and know I treasure our friendships.

:)

Thank you

Thanks for all your sympathy wishes. They are truly appreciated. I have my "surgery" scheduled for next Friday the 1st. Then it'll be healing and waiting to start trying again. Next time hoping that GOD has it in his plan for us!

We leave in the morning for Traverse City. We are going to Grand Beach Resort Hotel for 2 days. It's about a 4 hr drive according to RandMcNally . Joe likes their directions best, so I just avoided yahoo and went there! lol His sister is coming to dog-sit and the girls are already with their dad. They don't have school tomorrow because it's Records Day.

I'll check back in after our trip and maybe post a pic or two.

Have a great weekend!

Confirmation & time to move ahead...

It was confirmed today, by a 2nd ultrasound and an actual doctor, that the baby has no heartbeat and is smaller than it was a week ago. While we are very sad over this happening, it apparently wasn't the right time for us to start on that journey. God apparently thought this was more than we could handle at this time because we all know he doesn't give us more than we can handle. I see my OB/GYN tomorrow and we'll see how she wants me to handle the rest of the situation.

Joe and I celebrate our 1st anniversary this coming Friday. We are going away for the weekend. I think this is coming at a good time. We need some time away from everything.

I hope we have good news again soon...

It's been a while since I posted, so I thought maybe I should let you all know the girls made it home safely. They didn't get home til almost midnight and school was cancelled the next day so it all worked out for the best.

We had a good Christmas. We celebrated it on Christmas Eve morning since the girls would be with their dad Christmas Eve until New Years Day. The girls and Joe got me a pair of slippers, 2 pairs of pajama pants and 2 jump drives. We also went and had Christmas with Joe's mom, sister, grandma & step grandpa. I got money from his mom & a gift card from his dad (they are divorced). Grandma gave us chocolate covered pretzels. yum! So we thought it all turned out well.

Joe and I went yesterday and signed up at SnapFitness so we could start working out a bit. I need to get some exercise so I don't gain a lot of weight during my pregnancy and Joe needs to lose some weight by delivery day to be healthier for all of us! I walked 10 minutes on the treadmill and rode 17 minutes on the stationary bike. I kept my heart rate under 140, which all the websites recommend when PG and working out.

Anyhow, that's about it. I'm 6 wks and 6 days along. I can't wait for my appointment on the 8th of January!

Happy Holidays!

Best wishes for a wonderful, safe, joyous holiday season to whoever stops by!

We have some very good news in our family. Joe, the girls and I are expecting a baby! My estimated due date is August 18. I have my first doctor appt on January 8 and will now a more exact date then.

The weather overnight has been pretty bad. It's snowed between 6-8 inches and the winds are blowing. The weather advisory is supposed to last til 7pm tonight with total accumulations of 8-12 inches with 20-30 mph winds.

The girls are expected to fly back from Florida tonight. They went with their dad & his girlfriend to visit their pampa. We'll see if the flights stay on time. Quite honestly, I doubt the airport will stay open, I just don't want my girls lives endangered!

Christmas presents are almost wrapped. I do still have to get a gift card for K's teacher, then I'll be done buying. Waiting for one gift in the mail. And need to do some baking today to make mini loaves of bread for teachers. That's about it.

Enjoy the rest of your weekend. Be safe, be careful, watch out for others while driving!

Happy Thanksgiving

Here's hoping you all have a very wonderful Thanksgiving Day with family and/or friends! Be careful. Be safe.

Love

One day last week, I got home from work, feeling a bit light-headed and queasy. When I sat down on the bed and put my head back against the wall, it felt as if the room were spinning. Ugh. I changed out of my work clothes into some comfy clothes and a zip up sweatshirt. I proceeded to drag my sick-feeling bod out to the couch. As I laid there with my eyes shut, Lindsay came into the room and told me she had something for me. She handed me a heart-shaped piece of paper. And on that paper it read:

"Love is not finished yet"

I don't know where she found it or if she made that up herself, but it's pretty profound and I just had to share it.

When she gets home tomorrow evening from spending the weekend with her dad, I will ask her where she got that from. And I will give her a hug and tell her I LOVE her!

Great visit

Had a very nice visit with my parents today. I got up there about 11am, chatted w/dad for a bit, looked through the local papers, my cousins came over to take some bait out for the deer, chatted with them for a bit, ate some lunch, showed mom & dad the pics from our trip up to the U.P. and went for a "crop tour" as my dad always called it. A ride around the countryside to look at the crops. Some are my dad's fields and some the neighbors. We also stopped and visited with our neighbor up the road. Mom baked pumpkin pies this morning so we had that after lunch and I got some to bring home too! All in all a great day. Dad is doing pretty good. he still says some strange things but overall he's soooo much better! Mom did say they had a huge argument the other day and she almost took him back to the care facility. But he ended up apologizing because he was in the wrong. She reminded him that he won't remember the argument tomorrow, but she will. Anyhow, they seem to be doing well.

I got home shortly before 7pm and now am vegging watching a movie, doing some laundry. Tomorrow will be cleaning and baking. Joe is at his dad's hunting (with the dogs) and the girls are at their dad's also. Alone time, gotta love it!

Have a great weekend!

Fall Colors

Just wanted to share a few more pictures from our trip. The picture on the right is the trail to view the Falls. The picture below is of the Lower Falls. And of course the one above is US! :)

Weekend Get-Away

Last weekend Joe and I made a trip to the Upper Peninsula to get-away and see the fall colors. I am so glad we did it that particular weekend because this weekend is even colder! It was rainy and cool, but we had a good time nonetheless. We arrived at Mackinaw City between 8:30 and 9pm after dropping the girls off to my mom & dad near Saginaw. We stayed over night in Mackinaw City and then got up early to be on the bridge at "sunrise" - well needless to say it was foggy and sunrise didn't really matter either morning, Saturday or Sunday. lol But we did get up to Tahquamenon Falls - both the Lower and Upper Falls. They were beautiful. Here is a picture of the Upper Falls & the colors. We also went to Whitefish Point and seen some rescued boats and some boats that do the rescuing. We also went to St. Ignace and shopped there and in Mackinaw City. Sunday, we got up, went to the Casino for a bit and then came home, picking up the girls from my parents. At least getting home a bit earlier than planned worked out getting laundry done! lol

One Year Ago Today....

I remember standing on the deck taking a picture of our first.......SNOW!

Thank goodness it isn't quite that cold yet this year. I'm just never ready for winter to come. Lindsay had a soccer game on Thurs night and it was damp and cold....I already didn't feel well but then sitting out in the cold yucky weather...didn't make it any better.

Have I mentioned lately how I dislike winter?? BUT then again, I'm thankful it hasn't snowed....YET.

Popping in

Just thought it was time to post again. Today at work they celebrated the September birthdays with cake & fruit. It was my turn! lol We got a pic taken and everyone that came to the celebration sang to us that had birthdays. It was fun.

Lindsay had her first soccer game. Joe is her coach. It's a youth fall league through the Area Recreation. Anyhow, their team, The Wizards, won 1-0. Next game next Thursday!

Tomorrow is my dad's b-day. We are all going to celebrate at the care facility on Saturday. Should be fun but we are hoping it's not too overwhelming since there will be 13 of us all around him.

Anyhow, that is the scoop so far. I'll check back in a few days.

My Birthday

Yep, today is my 36th birthday! It's been a pretty good day. I got some awesome pictures of my girls as my gift from them and my mom! Mom had the girls for a couple weeks this summer and they got them taken as a secret!

I got a lot of emails from co-workers and friends, which made the day even better! Thanks everyone!

Have a great night!

Irritated

I'm feeling irritated today. Don't know why really....just am. I'll post again when I'm in better spirits.

First Day of School!

Look at my beautiful 2nd & 5th graders! Today was the first day of school in a new school. We walked the girls there, Joe and I. When we got into the first door, K didn't want to go. She started to tear up and luckily the principal, Mrs. Cooper, came by. She asked if everything was alright and I told her that this is a new school for us. So she asked Kim if she'd like her to take her to her classroom to meet her teacher. Kimberlee asked her if they get "buddies" to help show them around and Mrs. Cooper said yes, Mrs. Welch could get her a buddy. So we walked to K's classroom, met the teacher, asked about a buddy and a little girl turned around and introduced herself to K. I told K that Joe would stay with her and I needed to get L down to her classroom, she said ok. So I walked L down to her classroom, met her teacher, told her we were new to the school, asked about a buddy and she said yes, they have classroom buddies. She said we were to wait out by the lockers til it was time to go into their room. So when it was time, she called the kids in and I went in and helped L find her table with her name tag on it and then I asked her if she was ok. She said yes, I gave her a hug & a kiss, told her I loved her and told her to have a good day. She said all the same back to me and I left. By the time I got back down to K's room, the kids were all in their rooms, and her class was already writing something. I found Joe waiting for me just outside the one set of doors. I asked him if K was alright and he said that she didn't want to go into the classroom, but the one gal took her hand, told her it would be alright and said she could sit by her. That was sweet! Then Joe asked me if I was alright...of course I teared up - more as a sign of relief than anything I guess. The first day was hard on me too. But it's all good and in about 20 minutes, I'll take off to go pick them up. They only had a 1/2 day today and it's about an 8 minute walk to the school from here.

So there you have it...the first day of school story. It all turned out well and I'm sure when the girls find me waiting at the flagpole for them, they'll be talking a hundred miles a minute about the new friends and stuff in their rooms!

Happy Labor Day!

I know it's a day early, but c'mon, do I post every day?? Nope! So since I have the time, I'm gonna send out my "Happy Labor Day" wish for you now. :)

Did some baking yesterday. Got my zucchini all shredded, used some of it and froze the rest for now. I got green peppers cut up and froze as well. Mom gave me some last weekend from her garden! I made zucchini muffins instead of bread and I also made banana nut muffins and blueberry muffins. I made Chicken Tettrazini for dinner which was yummy. I was going to make a Pork Chop dish for dinner, but we need to eat leftovers...so I'll take the pork chops out today and make them tomorrow instead.

The girls are at their dads til tomorrow evening and then we have to get all ready for school the next morning. First day at a new school for them. It's only 1/2 day but still....it'll be a bit nerve wrecking and exciting all at the same time. I think after school I'll take them to Diane's Dollhouse since we've been wanting to go check it out. I just have to USE my memory! lol

Mom said dad was doing pretty good yesterday. He enjoyed some of her peach pie that she took up to him. From what she told me of their conversation, he's pretty darn alert and the nurse tells her he is eating-eating-eating! So this is all good stuff! We go visit him next weekend. There is also a little Festival going on near my moms which we will go to as well. Should be a fun weekend.

Ok, enough rambling. I hope I haven't shocked anyone by posting again - so soon! lol But I had the urge!

Take care - til next time....

Because I said so

This lady is great....

Because I Said So

go visit....

4 Month Anniversary!

Wow, can you believe it's been 4 months already??? I sure can't! Time just flies and I'm loving every minute of it! You may ask, what the heck are you talking about woman?!?!?!? Well, I've been at my new job 4 months as of tomorrow 8-30!!! Life is good! Some days are boring. Some days are crazy busy. It's getting to be fall time and there will be a lot of work going on since the weather is cooling down....crazy busy - gotta love it!

Joe had some bloodwork done a couple weeks ago because he's been having some serious migraines. The P.A. gave him some meds to take in the meantime but we get the results on Friday. I'm very anxious to hear what is happening with him.

Tomorrow morning the girls and I tour their new school with a secretary and might get to meet the principal if she is available. This, I know, will help both the girls and me not be as nervous on their first day next Tuesday.

Monday I have an appt with the doctor to get my bloodwork results. Mine are just to monitor my levels since I have high cholesterol and am borderline diabetic. Next Friday I will go for my very first mammogram. I am almost 36 and it's time to have one done, just as a precaution.

Nothing spectacular planned for the Holiday weekend that I am aware of. The girls will be going to their dads on Friday til Monday afternoon, so it'll just be me and Joe.

Last weekend we visited my dad. He is still doing quite well. He knows he needs to gain weight and he has been. He still says things that are totally not current, but we just go with it. He's talkative, alert and seems to remember certain things. I was expecting to have a not-so-great visit because mom said he has been confused and not willing to take his meds without a lot of coaxing...but that's not the dad I seen. I've been very lucky to have good visits every time we go. And we go every other weekend.

Well that's the latest update for us. I hope if you are reading, that all is well in your world!

Red Cross

I'm so proud of myself. Friday, at work, I gave blood for the very first time! Our company sponsored a Blood Drive and since it was right down the hall....I signed up right away when they first announced it. I figured, heck, since I was having labwork done so regularly for so long, I have no fear of needles or being poked or seeing my own blood, I may as well go ahead and GIVE. So I did! I was proud and so were some of my co-workers who found out it was the first time for me. That made me feel good too! :)

In other thoughts...we went and visited my dad this weekend. He is doing much better. The doctor has increased his Effexor and eliminated the Ativan. Dad was showing signs of aggression and so the nurses contacted the doctor who inturn increased the meds. Dad is very talkative now. He may not make a lot of sense but it helps with the visits when he can sit still for a bit and have a conversation. It doesn't have to be a lucrative convo...just the fact that he's talking is good. He isn't sleeping as much during the day and he's eating much better too. So those are all good signs. It just makes me wonder how long it'll take for the diseases (Dementia/Alzheimers/Progressive Supranuclear Palsy) to progress to the point where he'll need the meds increased again. *sigh*

The girls are back up to my moms for the week. We will pick them back up from her next Saturday. So once again, the house is quiet. We had them overnight on Friday. We went to see Hairspray while Joe went to see Transformers and then yesterday drove up to visit my dad and leave them with my mom. My sister & her 2 girls were at my moms too for the weekend, so my girls are getting to play with their cousins while there!

Ok, off like a dirty shirt. Will try to post more often.

Ok, so...another addition

I'll admit, it seems odd to be able to purchase 2 vehicles in a short amount of time. But you know what??

WE DESERVE IT!!

And now with 3 vehicles in the family, we have one for a spare! lol And...only one is financed! Positive thoughts...positive thoughts....

The weekend is here!

Yay, the weekend is here. My week at work was really slow, which in turn, made it feel like it was two weeks! lol

Last night we went and picked up our new addition to the family. It is a 1996 Chevy Tahoe. It's maroon, 4 WD and a really nice vehicle. Joe sold his Dakota to the neighbor boy, so we got him this vehicle, which will be more reliable than the Dakota EVER was! Now just keep your fingers crossed that Joe can find a job soon. It would be nice for him to start working again.

The girls are off to Florida w/their Aunt. They are spending some time with her and then some with Pampa and his girlfriend. They'll be back to MI next Saturday. I'll be calling them later to see how their trip is so far.

Joe is off fishing...I'm reading my HP #5 Book. Waiting on the mail to bring my HP #7 book. I still have to read #6. What the heck was I waiting for?? lol

Have a great weekend!

Quiet & HOT

It's going to be a HOT one here today. 96 is the predicted high and that is HOT for Michigan! *sigh* Our air conditioner is still not hooked up at this house! Apparently the wait for service from heating/cooling companies is 3-4 wks. The landlord said a relative of his brothers is going to come either Mon or Tues to hook it up. I hope so, I'm getting aggravated by how long this is taking!

Yesterday we were supposed to have gone up to my cousin's wedding. Instead we didn't. We did, however, meet my mom to drop the girls off to her for the week. So it's quiet here. Joe and I both slept in this morning. Infact, he's still sleeping. I better wake him up soon or he'll feel like yuck the rest of the day. I usually do too. I stayed in bed to long this morning too though. My neck hurts and it's taken me 40 minutes to wake up - even WITH coffee! lol

Not sure what we'll do today, since it will be so hot. We were going to go fishing this morning. Maybe I ought to wake him up so we can go. Then we talked about going on a bike ride around Kensington MetroPark but I don't know for sure what we'll do.

So anyway, I shall let you go for now so I can go wake "sleeping beauty"!

A lot has happened...

since my last post - wow! I hadn't realized it has been that long. I am sorry for falling out of the loop!



We made it through day camp and the move. We've been in our rental house now for over a week. There have been some items that the landlords had to address, such as air conditioning, ceiling fans...etc, but it's all gone well. They are very nice landlords and even had a "welcome home" bag on the counter when we walked in the house.



Day camp was a long 4 days as I was on my feet the entire time in the kitchen. It was still fun and I'm glad I did it, but also glad it's over!



Joe has gotten a new job also, working for a re-po company in our new town. He started yesterday and so far so good.



I guess that is all for now. We did stop by to see my dad this past weekend but he was napping and wanted to continue to nap, so we'll visit him this next weekend when we go back up to drop the girls off to my mom for the week and also attend my cousin's wedding/reception.



Ta-ta for now!

I think we've got it!

Well, it appears that we are going to be happy renters. Just waiting on the final word from the homeowner. Joe and I met w/the couple last night and somehow, someway, Joe and Brian know each other from somewhere...how funny! Brian talks as if we are good to go on moving in, but Laura, on the other hand, wants to "check" everything out. We've been honest w/our financial past and so we hope it's all still a "go". We asked if we could move in on 6/22 and they said "yes, the sooner the better". So, we have some preparation to do in the next 2 wks but we're ready too.

This coming Thursday is the girls last day of school. Next Sat we have a grad party to go to for my cousin and so we are going to visit my dad also. Sunday is Day Camp Set up and then the 18th-21st is Day Camp. 22nd we hope to get a rental truck and move! 23rd is my nephew's b-day party...so we'll be going to that too. It's a busy time, but it'll all be good as long as I don't get anxious about it all.

Update on my dad. My mom feels in her heart that his disease is progressing. It's very sad. But we are enjoying the visits when we get up there. Not much more to tell.

Have a great weekend!

Brighter Day

Ok, so the next morning I tried to wake up with a renewed faith. And it worked...I mean, I am still bummed of the situations we've faced and they haven't worked, but I'm trying not to let that get me down overall.

We just have to continue our search for a rental home. They are out there...it's just a matter of getting someone to rent to us with our credit situation.

My aunt from Texas flew in on Tuesday to see my dad. She is staying til tomorrow. We went up to see her, my mom & dad on Thursday and today they are coming down (my mom & aunt) to spend the night so mom & I can take her to the airport tomorrow. I'm just glad she got to see my dad. It's been since June 1988 since she's been to Michigan.

And I want to say congratulations to my friend Sara, who became a grandma this week!!! Yay! I'm so glad mom & baby are doing so well!

Ok, off to the grocery store!

Should Have Known....

Well as it turned out the people didn't want to see the house afterall. And on top of that, the lady we thought we might be able to rent to own from can't do it because of their situation.

What a great day. :(

House Showing!

The realtor called this afternoon...we have a showing tomorrow between 4:30 and 5:30! Yay! Working on getting things out of the girls room. Then will have to vacuum and dust. NOT a problem!

My aunt is flying in from Texas tomorrow to be able to see my dad. We never know how much longer he'll have and it would be great for him to be able to see her and her to see him. It's been many, many years since they've seen each other. I guess when mom asked dad what he thought about the prospect of seeing my aunt he said "it would be a dream come true" - well it will - tomorrow...he just doesn't know it yet! He goes for an MRI tomorrow. He's having difficulty with his tongue and chewing. I guess it's all part of the progression of the disease. Very very sad. Hoping to get up to see my aunt while she's here - hopefully Thursday.

Ok, off to work on the stuff to take out to the garage!

As requested....

Hi ya'll! I haven't updated lately because we've been busy. We have our house listed on the market and are looking at places to rent or on a land contract right now. We had a house all squared away to rent on a lake, but after getting in there to do some cleaning and such, it has black mold in the bathroom and the washing machine/dryer area. So we packed up everything we had taken over and moved it all back home. The guy has been notified and because we hadn't signed a lease yet, he has to return our 1st month's rent we paid in advance due to an agreement he wrote up and we both signed.

My dad had an appt with a neurologist the other day. She is having him put on a different med, which will increase some and weaned off other meds. She is willing to see him again, which is a good thing. He is scheduled for an MRI next week to see what his brain activity is showing. He is still at the dementia care center near my mom. I think he'll be there for a while, if not permanent. It's still very difficult for all of us, especially my mom.

Well, I better get back to working in MY house....hope you all have a great Memorial Day weekend!

HMD

Happy Mother's Day!

I wanted to get that out of the way because I know I won't be posting tomorrow!

We are heading up to visit my dad today and then onto my neice's b-day party. Should be a fun day although Joe isn't going because he's working today. He needs the money, so sometimes you just have to sacrifice.

Tomorrow will be a day of packing. Our house gets listed on Monday and the realtors have to come back & get pics of the outside & inside....so there is MUCH to be done here! *sigh* BUT we ARE moving forward...hopefully onto bigger & better things.

So I ask for prayers....good thoughts...positive vibes to be sent our way for all the things going on. I appreciate them tremendously!

Ok...off like a dirty shirt!

Dad & Dementia

Well, I was wrong. Dad was diagnosed with Dementia. A few days ago, mom had to admit dad into a facility that treats people with Dementia & Alzheimers. He had a few good nights at home but after that it got bad again. It was a good decision on mom's part although extremely hard. Dad will get the help he needs. For now, in our minds, it is a temporary stay, but after they evaluate him and so on, it may end up being permanent.

Thanks to those who still visit. I appreciate the comments.

Sore throat is lingering. I am drinking Green Tea w/honey but it's not working.

We are still working in the house. Monday night realtors will come to check it out and hopefully fill out paperwork to list it.

I start my new job on Monday as well. I need to get better! Hopefully tomorrow I can relax. I do have the March of Dimes Walkamerica to attend. If I'm not feeling up to it, I may just turn in my money and come back home. We'll see.

Have a great Saturday night.

On the downhill.......

it's Wednesday night...we are on the downhill slide to the weekend. Monday I start my new job. I can't wait. I'm sure I'll be shaking when I walk through the door there. But for now I just really look forward to it. It'll be a whole new routine for me in the mornings. Most likely will need to be on the road by 6am to beat traffic for my hour long commute.

Been doing a lot of work on the house. Put down new kitchen flooring. Painted the livingroom, bathrooms (2) and the hallway/stairway to the upstairs. Put a door on the linen closet in the bathroom. Have doors to put on the closets upstairs and a door for the girls bedroom. Been trying to de-clutter as best I can. Need to work in the garage and the flowerbeds yet, but it's all coming together. My realtors (a couple that work together) are coming out on Monday evening to see the house. Hopefully they won't recommend too much more to do so we can get it listed.

Please pray for us that we sell this place. I only want enough to get the loan paid off. That's all...I'm not asking for much.

Had my last Brownie meeting today. I will still be planning the meetings but not running them. There are 3 left...one of which is a field trip. I'm very disappointed because one of the moms pulled her daughter out of girl scouts because the mom is irresponsible. The girl is missing out because - gee, mom can't meet deadlines, she can't seem to use her phone to call, she can't turn in money on time, she can't pick her daughter up on time....but yet, she's punishing the girl by not letting her do something she really enjoys. Frustration....

Anyhow...I better quit rambling and go do something....like find a book to read...and relax.

And if you are at all interested in donating to the March of Dimes....I am participating in the WalkAmerica this Sunday. You can go to www.walkamerica.org/theresajager and donate! I would greatly appreciate it!

High Anxiety Warning!

A lot has happened since I last posted.

My dad's health has gone downhill quite rapidly in the past 6-8 wks. He's been diagnosed with Alzheimers and it's been rough on the entire family. He's had a short stay in the hospital and will be discharged tomorrow, with better meds and hopefully mom will be able to care for him for years to come.

I interviewed for a new position at a different company back in March. I got offered the job over a week ago and decided to take it. I will be done with my current job on April 29 and start my new job on April 30, although I did take 2 wks vacation. I need to work on our house to get it ready to list on the market. The good LORD willing...our house will sell. That would be such a relief.

We figure towards mid to late summer we will find a place to move too. The commute will be a long one for now, but I can handle it. Let's put it this way, it's worth it right now to commute.

So it was hard to say "see ya" to my co-workers on Friday. I have been at my current job for 7 yrs. I'm sure most of you know what I mean.

Time to move onto bigger & better things.........

2 months

Today marks 2 months for Joe and I being married! Since we've been married he's been gone more than before we were. :( But he's working and starting his business and that is acceptable. I sure love him being home on the weekends though. My best friend is home and we can talk. I miss that during the week.

Anyhow, we've decided to list our house for sale. Hopefully in the next few weeks we'll get enough done to get it on the market. Spring is supposed to be a good time and with our 30 x 50 pole barn, hopefully that'll be the attraction! The flowers will be coming up and I'm hoping I can get the yardwork done as well.

My dad has been going through a rough patch right now and I'm asking whoever shall pass by and read this, take just a 1/2 minute to pray that he gets well soon. Thank you so very much!

I'm still on day shift for now. I was asked to extend my temporary assignment in scheduling through April 13, so I accepted that. I interviewed last Monday for a new job at a new company, we'll see how that goes. Hopefully in another week or so I'll hear something.

The girls are loving the warmer weather today. They've been outside playing for most of it. That makes me happy. But for now....I gotta start a bath for one of them!

Have a great night & I hope to post again soon!

Once again

I hope I remember after this time, that I need to use FireFox to blog. I can't sign in with IE and it's aggravating. I spent a half an hour trying to clear my cache, delete cookies, delete history...blah blah blah, to trying it on Firefox and BAM! it signed me in! Whew....now I have to head out the door, so I'll be back later today!

Have a good morning and hope you are warm and safe - this winter has sucked!

Wow!

What a struggle this has been to get into Blogger since I switched my blog to the new version with Google. Oiy! I had to actually use my Firefox browser to be able to log in! Yikes!

Anyhow, it's been almost a month now that Joe and I have been married. Things are going well. Joe is working again, which we are thankful for. Although now he's out of town Sunday afternoon thru Friday afternoon. That part stinks. But he's getting his business up and running and that is what matters.

I'm still trying to figure out what path to take in some personal situations here at home. The unknown is driving me crazy. I don't know what is the right or the wrong thing to do. Big decisions though.

Girls have cheerleading practice tonight so I need to get going. I'm co-coaching for their squad. It's for a church program.

I'll try to check in soon. Thanks for all the well wishes about Joe and I getting married! ;)

I give you....

We had an absolutely beautiful day, although cold, the sun was shining brightly. The ceremony, although short, was beautiful and well presented by the County Clerk. We had a great day. Some of our family was not able to attend due to other committments or the weather but those that could attend were greatly appreciated.

:)

We're goin...to the chapel...and we're...

Gonna get married!! Yeppers!! You read that correctly!
Today is the day!!

2pm!

Woo hoo!!

Hi again!

Off this afternoon to Camp Wacousta for our Girl Scout Leader Overnight. I'm on the committee this year and so I volunteered to make soup for our dinner tonight. I've made Cheesy Vegetable Soup and Taco Soup! Both WW recipes and very yummy to boot! Tomorrow morning I'm making Monkey Bread as part of our breakfast. One of the 2 other ladies is making a breakfast casserole. After we eat, we are doing crafts. Should be fun. This will be my first year going as well as helping. We are to be at the camp at 3pm and done at noon tomorrow.

5 days til I get married again! ;) Thought you'd all love the surprise from the last post! lol

Have a great weekend!

10 days!

10 days til Joe and I tie the knot! ;)

We're ready!

Happy New Year!

I hope 2007 is the best year yet for all of you! I've got some things to get straightened around in my life this year, so my work is cut out for me. I'm going to try to tackle it with the best possible attitude I can. Staying positive is not an easy thing to do when faced with some real struggles, but with the support I've found in the past year, I think I can do it. I've found some new really supportive friends through Weight Watchers. And they aren't just online friends, we've actually met and try to get together every month, if possible for lunch. I also have my old friends, who are tried & true, who stick with me through thick n thin...and I have Joe and his family who show tons of support when needed. I also have my family, although they don't always agree with decisions I make and I have my girls, who no matter how much I discipline & love them, they love me right back. So with all of that in mind, I hope to tackle the struggles of 2007 with a positive attitude and hope everything turns out the way I hope. Things happen for a reason, we may not always understand the why, but they do. Believing in GOD is the first step...knowing he will not let things happen that shouldn't, trusting in him is where I hope to start.

Anyhow, before I get toooooooo sappy, I'll end this and wish you all a very Happy New Year and have a great day!

One month to the day!

Merry Christmas Eve to everyone that stops by. I hope you and your family have a very Merry Christmas and a Joyous New Year.

One can only hope I'll do a better job at posting in the New Year.

Happy Day After

Thanksgiving. Hope you all had a great day with good food & better company!

Joe and I went over to his moms for lunch with her and his sister. It was very nice. No turkey as they are not real big turkey fans. That was ok though because we'll have turkey on Saturday with my family. The girls were with their dad & step-mom. I worked last night and we got to order out for dinner compliments of our boss! We are thankful for him too!

Today I'm working day shift. I swapped shifts with a co-worker so he could spend more time with his family. They went out of town to have Thanksgiving, so rather than him get up early to come in, I swapped so he could drive in later.

Tomorrow we are heading to my sisters for our family Thanksgiving. Hoping to leave around 8am for the 2 1/2 hr drive, spend the day and come back. Long day but should be enjoyable, I hope.

Have a great weekend.

Things subtly missing....

I told the girls it would happen. Subtly....things will start disappearing from their room. Need to get rid of stuff....junk....well, not in their eyes. But things they don't play with needs to go! I can't even vacuum good in there because there is so much STUFF! So, little by little, things will start disappearing. Hopefully subtly enough they won't even notice.

It has begun...

I should be at home...

but instead, I'm still at work. Yes, by rights, I should be here....BUT you have to understand...I'm this close to being off for a week and I soooo want to just leave! But I can't. I have a conference call at 2pm that I am supposed to be in on because I'm on this particular project. *sigh*

K has a skating b-day party she is going to tonight. It's also a sleepover. But I remembered a bit ago that she has cheerleading tomorrow so I'm going to have to have Joe pick her up from her friends because I have a Brownie Field Trip to go on and won't be back in time to get her to cheerleading. Shoot! Anyway, other than those 2 things...nothing else planned for the weekend. I need the time to rejuvenate so next week I can bake and clean!

I sooo want to leave...have I said that yet? lol

Different Look

ok, so I thought my blog needed a different look for a while. I only use ready-made templates cuz I'm not talented like that or can I understand how to load up one someone else made! lol

Anyway, here it is!

Testing

Trying to post but getting errors....seeing if this goes through.

French Silk Pie Recipe

As requested, here's the French Silk Pie Recipe.

I will be making this tomorrow. I thought it sounded easy for such a delicious treat.

Chef Paul's French Silk Pie Recipe

Submitted by: rec.food.recipes Niki webmaster

Ready in: > 2 hrs
Difficulty: 3 (1=easiest :: hardest=5)
Serves/Makes: 8


Categories:
Chocolate Pie Recipes
Low Fat Desserts Recipes

Ingredients:
20 Low fat chocolate sandwich cookies
1/3 cup low cholesterol egg substitute
Cooking spray
3 (1.5 ounce) Chocolate Bars
12 ounces reduced fat cream cheese
2 tablespoons diet instant vanilla pudding mix
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 cup fat free whipped topping

Directions:

For the crust, crush the cookies in a food processor until fine. Add 1/3 cup egg substitute. Form into dough. Spray a 9 - inch pie plate with cooking spray. Spread the cookie mixture around the bottom of the pie plate. The mixture will be sticky. It may be helpful to use a piece of wax paper or a plastic bag to help spread. Bake in a 350 degrees oven for 15 minutes. Cool. Melt the chocolate bars either in a microwave or over the stove. Combine with all other ingredients except the whipped topping. Mix on low speed until ingredients are incorporated. Whip on high speed for four minutes. Pour mixture over cooled pie shell. Allow pie to set in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours. Spread with whipped topping and serve.

Classic French Silk Pie has about 55 grams of fat per serving. This recipe has about 10 grams.

NOTE: Can use Oreo Cookie Crust instead

TGIF!!!

Thank goodness it's Friday! Done with midnight shift this morning. Yay!

Our Brownie Trip to the Cider Mill was fun. We had plenty of time there and the kids even got to play for a bit before we headed back to the school. We have one field trip planned in November and one in December. I need to get planning for next year pretty soon!

Nothing much planned for the weekend and I like it that way. Helps me to recover coming off this shift. We are having a meal this weekend with Joe's family because yesterday was his sister's birthday. I'm making her a French Silk Pie (WW style)!! I can't wait!

Have a great weekend if I don't get back to post!

Not much new...

here. Just wanted to post so as to try and get a routine going again. Good luck with that huh? lol

We are going on a field trip today with my Brownie Troop. Going to a cider mill & pumpkin patch. I believe it will be fun. Weather is supposed to cooperate, so that is great! Hope I've alloted enough time for the trip though...my only worry.

Have a great day!

Rain, rain, go away!

I think we've had enough rain for a while.....you can make it go away now, ok Mother Nature?

My ex brought the girls earlier since I emailed him.

Due to the HIPPA laws, nothing can be said as to how the repair worker is doing from Saginaw. That law really sucks because we just want to know his progress.

Last I knew, my co-workers son was in the hospital in Germany with some injuries to his lower extremities. Nothing new since hearing that.

I'm on midnight shift this week. Was hoping to be moved off of it after I talked with my boss, his boss & HR guy, but my boss was off on this accident investigation committee and here I sit in the middle of the night....at work. He knew tonight when he called in I wasn't happy about being on this shift.

I just wish that some of the applications that I'm putting out there would come through. I know I just have to keep the faith. Things don't necessarily happen as quickly as I'd hope they would.

Have a great week!

Rainy Morn

Yep, another rainy morning in mid-Michigan, but I'll take it. It's 50 degrees out. Could be worse. Could be like last week - SNOW. Nah, I'll take the rain!

Had to email the ex to see if he could bring the girls over earlier in the mornings. It's just to hard to have them here for 3-5 minutes before the bus comes and make sure they have everything they need. I don't get time to check through their backpacks, make sure they have their snack, library books, papers signed. I hope he'll comply.

Need to do some more cleaning today. Think I'm going to beg off on my coffee date. I dunno. I like doing coffee, just to get out of the house, so I dunno what I should do.

We had an unfortunate accident happen at work yesterday. Most of you know I work for the electric company here in Michigan. We are one of the 2 big ones. Anyway, one of our repair workers in the Saginaw area was working in a larger substation doing repair work and threw a rope over an energized 46,000 volt "bus" as they are called - it's conductor in a metal casing. He was burnt badly and is in the burn unit in Flint. We don't have any updates to his condition but if he survives it will be a miracle. Pray for him and his family.

And, although I am not a big fan of this particular co-worker of mine, please pray for his family too....his son is over in Baghdad and the Hummer he was riding in on Sunday was hit by a bomb. We've been told he's alive in a hospital with lower extremity injuries. No other updates have been given to us.

So overall, it was a sad day at work yesterday as we don't know the outcomes of the two incidents above. But believing in GOD will help. He's got a path for us. We just have to remember that.

With that said, I will move on...hope those that visit today have a terrific day and thanks for stopping in!

QOTD:

What do you do with all your kids papers they bring home from school??

Please, if you can answer this question of the day, please, by all means, do. I have so many papers laying around that I'm not sure what the heck I should do with them all. Some are papers I'd like to keep to reflect on later in the girls life, ugh...

HELP!

*YAWN*

So this has got to be the longest 12 hr shift ever!!!!!!!!! Thank goodness it's 5:23am or I'd be either pulling my hair out or sleeping! lol

Sent out another 5 resume's tonight. Careerbuilder.com is a great website for job searching! I am also going to pick up the Lansing State Journal to see what's in there. Nothing new is popping up on our vacancy list at work, so if anything, I guess I'll probably be leaving the company. But really, it's too early to say.

Joe left last night for his dads just for overnight. He'll be back later this afternoon. He wanted to go hunting in his old spot by his dads and since I'm working midnight shift & sleeping most of the day, he figured this would be the best time.

Originally we (Kimberlee & I) were going to be taking her friend Ruby out to Caesarland for a few hours later today but I asked K if we could reschedule because I forgot about a retirement party I wanted to go to. Now I'm almost thinking I may not even go to that. I guess it all depends on how I feel. It's a potluck party for one of our Girl Scout members who turned 50 yesterday and is retiring from her job (but not GS). I know her but I wouldn't call her a friend...so I don't know. If I don't go, I'll feel bad because I had K reschedule her friend thing. I just try to plan too much and it ends up biting me in the butt usually.

Guess I'll go play a game of FreeCell waiting for 6:45 to come!

Ordered to post!

I received a comment on my previous entry that said - POST IN OCTOBER! LOL Okay, okay, I'm postin, I'm postin!

Not much new happening here really. Snowed yesterday. That really sucked. It's still freezing here today. I'm still in pursuit of a new job. Nothing has panned out yet.

Had lunch with 2 dear friends I met through the weight watchers board today.

Girls are gone with their dad for the weekend. I have to work midnight shift this weekend - YUCK!

Supposed to be going out to dinner tonight w/Joe & then to nap. He's upstairs with a bad headache so I'm letting him sleep it off.

That's about it. :)

It's only been 5 days

since I posted last - wow, can you believe it??

Tomorrow starts Bow season. Joe is off over to a friends mom's house to go hunting with them in the morning. He's so excited! I hope he gets a buck tomorrow!! We can use the venison!

Working 12 hr shifts this weekend. I get Monday off but believe me, I have running to do. Joy. Dentist appt for me and then I have a meeting at the school too. Kinda glad I don't have a Brownie meeting this week. Can get caught up and ready for the next one on the 11th, although we do have an event we are going to on the 7th.

Have a important meeting with my boss & his boss on Tuesday to decide what I'm going to do since I can't work swing shift anymore. My doctor is recommending I get off of this type of shift and so I'm going to see what I can do about it. Wish me luck, as I'm not sure how it will all go.

Ok, I'm needing to get to bed. I have another 12 hr shift tomorrow!

Doing better

I'm doing much better today. I've just decided that when someone asks me for something (I'm talking about the ones that ask all the time) I'm going to say what are you gonna do for me in return. I deserve a little attention too!

I'll post again soon....

What am I getting??

That's what I want to know. What am I getting out of my life?? You may not want to read this post because I have some feelings that I am just going to lay out there because I'm having them and need to vent.

I go to work. Most of you know I work swing shift which means my hours change weekly. I try to sleep. Not always well when I work midnights and usually cut short when I work other shifts because of the needs of my children. I still have to make dinner, vacuum, dust, clean toilets, pick up dirty laundry, do the laundry, fold clothes, put clothes away, deal with my ex over the kids, pay all the bills, take care of the childrens needs and what am I getting from all of this?? What?? Because I don't have a clue. I give and I give and I give some more. What do I get?? I had to use my stinkin birthday money just to buy groceries. I'm tired & angry all the time. At least I feel that I am. I'm not a nice person lately and I hate it. I hate it. Something has got to change.

I'm just so frustrated with these feelings. I don't know what to do about them, that is why I'm hoping journaling them will help. It's just one thing after another...everyone needs or wants a piece of me and my time but what am I getting out of all of this??

I give. That's my fault. I don't want to stop giving, that's not my personality...but I give so much I put myself in very bad spots. And now I'm just living a very angry life.

*sigh*

Still a sicko....

um...not what you are thinking! lol

I'm still sick. I was hoping just letting it run it's course would work, but I think I'm gonna have to take something for this cold. If I'm not careful, I'll lose my voice and then when I get back to work on Monday, I won't be able to be heard! For some, that might be fine, but in my job, I need to be heard! lol

Last midnight shift is almost over. Next week is day shift. I'll be meeting with my boss to see about finding me a different position. Either in my department or the company. I can't work swing shift any more. My doctor recommends I get off of it for health reasons. I realize it's true, more and more every day since she told me that is what I NEED to do. So, just pray that my meeting goes well. With a position change, there will be many more changes. Bear with me through all of them. As things change, I'll keep you all up to date - those that still stop by to see if I am still in existence!

This weekend we are having lunch on Saturday with Joe's mom & sis. It's to celebrate my past birthday. Sunday K has a b-day party to go to. That's really it for the excitement. I do have cleaning to do as well. Maybe a trip to goodwill to get rid of some things.

Next week we have a Girl Scout event Tuesday night & then our first Brownie meeting of the year. I'm a bit nervous because I have a lot of ground to cover with the parents that day. But as far as the kids go, the first meeting will be about getting to know each other and having fun so they'll want to come back. I had one girl register the other night. I have to contact a couple girls moms over the weekend and then get an "invitation" ready to go out to all the 1st grade girls to come on Wednesday to our meeting.

Anyhow, have I rambled on enough yet. Must be what being sick does to me. lol

Have a great Friday!

Happy Birthday

to me! It's my 35th birthday! Wow...where has the time gone?

Here's the exciting plans....

1) Go home after work
2) Get girls ready for school & on bus
3) Go to bed
4) Get up, get girls off bus
5) Go get license plate tabs renewed
6) Take nap
7) Go to work

Wow...how will I be able to stand all the excitement??
LOL

Ehlloooo

Anyone still out there?? *echo, echo, echo* lol

Just thought I should probably put up a post to say I'm still around. Home computer still not fixed. Probably won't be for a while, so I am cancelling my internet access at home. I'm at work enough to be online.

Not really too much new. Kids are still having a busy summer. They are at grandma's til tomorrow afternoon & then they are participating in day camp at a nature center for the next 3 wks before school starts.

so much fun, so little time.

I'm still here....just not as often.

My home computer was damaged in a storm a few weeks back. I don't have any extra $$ to get a new video card, which is what ppl are telling me is wrong with it. So, until I do have some extra $$ I have resorted to either using the computer at work, like now, or using my neighbors computer, which she has so graciously offered me.

As of July 21st, Joe and I have been together for 18 months! Yay us!

On July 29th, my ex is getting married. He's only been with her for about 11 months.

Working midnight shift this week. bleh.

I've lost 42.5 lbs with Weight Watchers. If you are considering it, do it! Awesome program!

Sara, if you pass by again, email me. I don't have your email addy and wanted to respond to your last comment.

That's it for now....

Schools Out/Summer's Here!

Kids are more excited to see who they get for teachers next year than what the grades are on the report cards! lol Report cards get sent out tomorrow...so I know Friday, they'll be looking for them!

Drama camp this week has been a success so far. Kids are enjoying it. They are also going to Vacation Bible School with a friend & her kids in the evenings. Today they went to the dentist and no cavities!! It's been a crazy week so far, but I hope the kids are having fun. Always seems what we think is fun for them, may not be what they think is fun. lol

Anyhow, I've got both the girls bridged & flown up to the next level in Girl Scouting. I've gone to the trainings for GS Day Camp which is next week. We have set up on Sunday afternoon. I've gotten my Brownie & Junior training completed for next year but want to look into the camping training as well. Fun never ends!

Hope everyone that visits is doing well. Summer time (well, so far) doesn't leave much time for computer playing - so I'll check in when I can!

Back to normal

We got some propane today and things are back to normal. At least I know I can cook without it running out on me. Paying the bill on the other hand, is ridiculous! 200 gallons for $384! Ugh...makes me sick.

Still feeling quite congested in the sinus area. Our Daisy Girl Scout meeting this afternoon is practicing for Bridging and then visiting the doctor's office for a tour, so I'm going to talk to my doc about the way I'm still feeling and see if I should come back on Friday to see her.

Dinner tonight is at El Azteco in East Lansing for our last service unit meeting for Girl Scouts. Should be enjoyable.

Memorial Day

Hope everyone is enjoying this day of rememberance. It's beautiful here. 90 degrees at 5:30! I got up a bit ago. Made it through night #1 of my 5 midnights. It was a bit crazy at work when I first got there at 7pm yesterday. This heat reaks havoc on electrical equipment at times. Anyhow, only 8 hr shifts the rest of the week!

Feeling some better, just coughing still. And blowing my nose. Just going to take it easy til I have to go to work.

Our propane is about to run out and I didn't want to call on the weekend or Holiday so we are trying to get by until tomorrow morning when I can call. Might have a slightly cold shower tonight though. No cooking on the stove or oven. We'll figure it out. lol

Later!

Sinus Infection, Bronchitis & Laryngitis

That is what working double shifts after sitting out in the cold & wind watching a baseball game for 5 hrs will do to you. Heed the warning - don't do it! lol

My boss sent me home yesterday morning telling me to get some rest. I had double shifts scheduled all week and it sort of upset me that he was sending me home because I didn't want to make our already short staff, even shorter. But he didn't care. I barely could talk as it was and everyone I did talk to told me I should be home. So I got myself a doc appt and that (in the title) is what she told me I had. I was prescribed Zithromax TriPack, Mucinex & allergy meds. Told to get rest, be quiet and drink warm tea w/honey & lemon.

Today I have my voice back somewhat and am feeling some better, but the allergy med I got should have been decongestant too and I didn't get the right one. Don't have the extra cash right now to go get it. So I'll get through it. Just layed out in the sun for an hour hoping to get some of it dried out of my head. Oh...and work on a tan too. :) I will veg as best I can since the girls are here. Working all those hours and then starting midnight shift this week just leads to a neglected house, so I'm trying to work on cleaning up little by little.

Also have to get ready for our very last Daisy meeting this Wednesday. I have to get the girls banners completed and get their binders together too. So, lots to do in the next couple days. The next time our Daisies meet after this Wednesday is Bridging. Very exciting!

So....who still stops by??

PS - down 36.5 lbs now!! Weight Watchers is awesome!

6 down...

1 to go...but it's a 12 hr one! I'll make it, just need to sleep all day to do it.

Had to stay up a bit yesterday morning to get K to the doctors for her 9 yr well check. She's a healthy girl!

Got to bed at 11am and was back up at 5. ugh. Joe and I went out to Chinese for dinner & then grocery shopping. So much excitement for a Friday night it was scary! lol

Have a great weekend!

Midnights

As mentioned in the last post, this week I am on midnight shift. Yippee....can you hear the sarcasm?? lol Not only is it midnight shift, but it's my rotation of 7 midnights. ugh. I've also been sick. Had something like the flu, only not the usual results of the flu. My stomach was in knots and my body ached. I slept pretty much all of Tuesday in between getting home from work Tues morning & going back to work Tues night with the exception of 3 hrs. I am feeling pretty good tonight. Thank goodness.

Had a Daisy meeting today. We have 2 more actual meetings and then my girls bridge to Brownies in June. So we are building up to that.

Other than that, all is pretty much well. I had the girls on Monday evening and then again tonight. I'll get them again on Sunday night after I get some sleep and end this shift.

Thanks to those who haven't forgotten me! ;)

A month

Wow, it's been a month since I posted. I'm surprised anyone has commented at all anymore, but Leslie was the one who did last and I figured I better come up for air or no one will come to visit or keep in touch if I don't!

Everything is going well. Working afternoon shift this week but getting out early every day cuz the weather has been sooooo nice! *knock on wood* One day left of this shift and start midnights on Sunday at 7pm.

Today I am going to help at school for K's class. I volunteered to help their "groups" and today is one of my assigned days. So I need to hop in the shower very soon to get ready.

Just a quick update on my WW journey. I've lost a total of 28 lbs since end of September. I'm feeling better. My bloodwork is coming back better. I'm actually getting in some exercise since the weather has been improving!

The girls and Joe are all well too. Joe had a few mishaps at work causing injuries, but he's healing. Girls are growing like bad weeds!!

Ok, enough for now...will post again soon....promise.

Brownie Trip

Tomorrow afternoon we leave on our Brownie Trip. The camping trip was postponed and we have a new itinerary instead. We are going for an overnight trip to Grand Rapids. I think I may have mentioned it before. Anyhow, I need to get K & I packed for that. Also want to get the house somewhat cleaned up & laundry done too.

I tried out my Yoga DVD I bought on eBay. It's a Leslie Sansone. I hear so many good things about her in the workout world. I think the stretching will do wonders for my back & neck. They always seem to bother me. Anyhow I got the poses down today and will try to do the DVD at least 3-4 times a week. If the weather ever decides what it's doing and warm up, I will start walking outside too.

Have a great weekend!

Finally, the time is about here!

It's 6am....only 45 minutes to go, if I'm lucky. 45 minutes for what you might wonder? Well....45 minutes til my relief gets here and I get to leave this wretched place for about 32 hrs! lol My 7-day, 64 hr stretch is close to being over!!! Then I come back for afternoon shift at 3pm on Monday for 4 days. I just look forward to getting some rest and then getting the neglected house tidied up a bit.

Joe set up an aquarium about a week ago. He had all the parts & pieces except a cover for it and I've been wanting fish, so he got it all put together and we let the water do it's thing for about a week. Night before last we went and bought some fishies. We got 3 fishes, 2 algae eaters and I was lucky to get a froggie too! He's so cute! lol I will try to get some pictures later of the new additions to the family when I'm home & more awake. Joe also got a lid for the tank, so the kitties don't fish for the fishies with their paws! Although Joe said he caught Fluff sitting on top the lid watching the fish!

Have a great Sunday!

No Camping Next Weekend

:(

I'm sad. Found out today at K's Brownie meeting that we were unable to secure reservations for the camping trip next weekend. I was sooooooooooo looking forward to that. BUT instead, the troop leader, S, made reservations for the girls to go to Grand Rapids for an overnight at a hotel. We are going out to eat on our way to GR and then going to a Build A Bear Workshop, then to the Hotel and participate in an activity and then the next day we get to eat breakfast, go swimming, go to Fred Meijer Gardens to the Butterfly Exhibit, eat lunch and then back home. The girls are all excited about the new plans we have. S says we will look at other dates to make reservations for camping. That made me feel a bit better. Funny to think I may have been more disappointed than the girls!

One thing I have to say about working midnight shift is that I get to make all my rounds to my favorite blogs. I have so neglected visiting them up til this past week when I've been able to go regularly. I hope I can keep visiting regularly as my next week starts afternoon shift for 4 days.

Less than 2 hrs left for this shift and then another 12 hr shift tonight & I'm done for about 32 hrs and then back to work at 3pm on Monday. J has the girls this next week til K and I go on the Brownie Trip, then I get L when we get back for overnight Saturday. Then he has them again the next week. GAWD how I wish I had a normal shift so I didn't have to go without my kids so much!

Anyhow, have a great weekend!

Daisy Day

My Daisy Troop 241 earned their very first Brownie Try-It last night at Daisy Day. This is what the try-it looks like:

Art To Wear

They had so much fun! They made bracelets, had their face and/or hand painted, decorated a t-shirt and made masks. The girlies are on their way to becoming Brownies! They will officially bridge in June.

I was looking in the Try-It Badge book last night, trying to get an idea of what try-its are out there and what I will have the girls earn next year. The try-its look like they are going to be very fun and I'm anxious to get this year done & start into next year! :)

What day is this?

Well technically it's Thursday now. But it's my Wednesday night shift I'm working. Still have Thursday, Friday & Saturday nights to go! This shift just kicks my butt unbelievably. I am hoping to get some good sleep tomorrow. I only got about 5 hrs total today. I cancelled my dentist appt cuz I figured I needed sleep more. Then I woke about 1pm and couldn't go back to sleep. Had a Daisy Troop meeting at 3:45 til 5pm. I got to lay down and slept for about 1/2 hr before I had to get up again & get ready for work.

Tomorrow (or should I say, later today)is Daisy Day. My Daisy troop gets to work with a Brownie troop and earn their first Try-It Badge, Art To Wear. It's part of Bridging to Brownies. This should be a fun event. I only have 4 girls, so that makes it a bit easier. I think our school district only has 2 Daisy Troops so maybe a total of 20-25 girls. Not bad.

Friday we have a Brownie meeting (for K's troop). I'm sure we will be talking about our next weekends camping trip. We go to Camp Wacousta for the weekend. We went last year and it was a lot of fun so I look forward to this trip very much! The only difference this year is....it's winter!! Last year we went in the fall, so there was no possibilities of snow or really cold weather. This year is different. But it'll be fun nonetheless!

Sunday's Party & Monday

We had a really nice family birthday party for Kimberlee on Sunday. My mom, dad, sisters, one BIL and my nieces & nephew were there along with Joe's mom & sis. We had an excellent lunch and then K got to open her presents. Afterward we had cupcakes & ice cream. A very nice turnout - she's a lucky kiddo.

Yesterday, I got home from work, woke the girls up shortly after 7am and had them get dressed. Then I remembered - hey! today IS K's b-day. So I wished her a Happy Birthday and she was like, "oh - yeah, it is my birthday" - LOL Silly us! She got a nice phone call from her cousin Nicky and also her Aunt Andrea.

Now, she's 9 and has developed selective hearing. Let's hope it's only temporary! ;)

Home Alone!

This is what happens when you leave the dog home alone, unattended with leftover birthday trash in the wastebasket.

Cake & Kiddo

Kimberlee's 9th birthday cake. Her party was a Hawaiian theme.


She had a great time, can you tell??

Birthday Party #1

Hello all! Well the day has come. Birthday party #1 for K's friends. Starts at 1pm. We are having a Hawaiian theme. A bright sun pinata, some cool party favor poppers, we are making cat's eyes (craft) and having cake & ice cream. Making some ice cream punch stuff for drinks with the little umbrella's in them. So far only 4 kids RSVP'd but RSVPing is underrated. People don't do that so much anymore, so I'm hoping the other kids do show up. She invited 14 total. We'll see. Joe's sister and mom are coming to help me decorate and throw the party! I have to leave in 1/2 hr to go pick up the girlies and then go pick up K's cake. Then back home to vacuum & dust.

Tonight I have to prepare for tomorrow's party. This one is for family. We are having turkey, mashed taters, carrots, corn & cole slaw. Cupcakes, ice cream. Mom is bringing the turkey, so I'm lucky there.

Have a great day everyone! :) PS - Feels nice to post again! ;)

No OT tonight

Well I worked 15 hrs that other night, when I posted I would be working a double. Last night I worked 11 hrs. And tonight - I don't have to stay over! My co-worker doesn't have to report tomorrow so he will work his own shift tonight. Thank goodness!! But he was picked to serve, which could be up to 2 weeks more, so next week I am covering his midnight shift. Luckily, I don't have to work any doubles....just the regular shift hours.

Saturday my oldest daughter is having her b-day party with friends and then Sunday is b-day party with my family. So busy weekend! We also are getting our GS cookies on Saturday so delivery time!

Be going home within the next hour! Woo hoo!

Double Shift

Well, I'm working a double shift tonight. My co-worker, Gary, who is on midnight shift this week has been on stand-by for Jury Duty and when he called in tonight, he was advised to report in the morning. Meaning, he can't work tonight. Sooooo, I graciously had offered if that should happen, I would cover his shift. The overtime will be nice BUT I also have a 10am appt tomorrow which is gonna suck, cuz I'll get home from here by 730, nap for about an hour & a half, then get up - go to meeting, be home by 1130 - sleep til 130 get up and go back to work. Yikes - that's 3 hrs. Hm....thinking I might call Rick, my co-worker who is on day shift and see if he can stay later in the afternoon or come in early in the morning.

3 Weeks +

Wow, it's been 3 weeks + since I blogged. I apologize for not keeping in touch, just hadn't been in the "blogging" mood. Lots going on here that keeps me on the computer limited time.

Happy Belated Birthday to my dear friend, Sue!

This is my first day off in 12 days. I worked a total of 109 hrs. Which really only averages out to 9+ hrs a day, but it was exhausting! I get today & tomorrow off and then back on afternoon shift. Only 5 days til the next day off! ;)

Tomorrow we are getting all the plans figured out for my daughters birthday parties next weekend. Yes, parties. Saturday is a party for her and her friends and then Sunday is a party for family! Guess I better email my family, eh?

Ok, well I better get back to cleaning in the house- this clutter needs to go bye-bye!

Happy Birthday

Happy Birthday to one of my very best friends!! I love you Karen!

Another Birthday Wish

A very happy birthday to my youngest daughter Lindsay, who turned 6 today! I love my little girl!

We celebrated her birthday this past Sunday with myself & Joe, Gramma & Papa, Gramma Debbie, Aunt Jamie, Aunt Shell & Uncle Doug, Brittany, Logan, Aunt Brenda & Uncle Steve, Megan & Lauren. It was a lot of fun and Lindsay got some really awesome gifts. She's very lucky to have such a great family.

I imagine tonight she is celebrating with her dad, Amy, Kimberlee & Nathan. I hope she has lots of fun too.

A Very Happy Birthday Wish

A very Happy Birthday wish is going out to Joe at Boyds Creek this morning! Go visit his blog & wish him a Happy Birthday! Hope you have a really great day Joe!

I'm sure I'm not the only one who is happy the kids are back in school. Definitely needed a break and some peace & quiet. My kids aren't bad kids, don't get me wrong...they just need to go back to school! lol

Thought Joe was going back to work today...and he might be....but his boss called this morning and said they've not had such a mild Dec/Jan and the job site is such a mess with the ground thawing & the rain...so the boss was going to check on the site and Joe MIGHT go work later. Joe doesn't mind working in the mud he says. So we'll see. I was kinda looking forward to an all around quiet day....so who knows.

Anyhow, have a great day and thanks for stopping in!

HNY!!

Hope you have a great 2006 - I'm looking forward to a new year, hoping it's a new start on many different topics!

Different position open...

Well, because I didn't get the scheduling position and Doug did...it leaves his spot open in Lead System Control. At first I had the attitude that I wasn't going to put in for it because, well....just because. I was angry and hurt by not getting the scheduler job. But after one of the Lead's suggested to me that I ought to think about it cuz she felt I was one of the more qualified...I gave it some more thought. Today at 3:57pm the email came that the vacancy was posted and if anyone was interested to contact "so 'n so" with resume and availability in the particular week he was going to be doing the interviews. 3 minutes later, he knew of my interest, had my resume and when I was available that particular week. He emailed me back, saying "that was quick (all of 3 minutes!)" and asked how the 17th at 1pm sounded. I emailed back saying it sounded fine! So on January 17th, at 1pm, I will be interviewed for a Lead position. Brief explanation of what the Lead Controller does is monitor the electric system for the entire Consumers Energy territory in Michigan. They have contact with interfaces such as Detroit Edison, MEPCC, MISO...if anyone has heard of those. They have a pretty important job. Anyhow, if I don't get it...at least I interviewed. I'm putting forth the interest. And as I said if I don't get it...well, then I stay where I'm at. Things happen for a reason, although we seldom understand the reason at the time.

How it turned out..

Well the one thing I was hoping would turn things around didn't. It didn't go badly either. Just was basically postponed til mid-January.

We had heard that a Ford dealership was buying vehicles and putting ppl in new Fords. So we went to check it out since my truck has given me quite a bit of grief since Thanksgiving Day. No luck. Basically found out I got screwed big time by Sundance in Grand Ledge. The same exact truck as mine, we were told was worth over $30,000 when I bought it. Guess we should have done some research. The Ford dealer showed us on his computer that it's really only worth about $18,500. We also found out that we paid for a service contract on the vehicle and yet, they won't stand behind the problems I've had. So I will be writing them in hopes of getting a refund on the contract. It won't be big, but it would be something. Anyhow, because I owe so much on the truck (buying it for more than it was worth and having to roll over part of the previous vehicle loan) I'm basically screwed on getting out of this deal and lowering my payment. It was worth a try anyhow.

But one good thing did happen today. I received, by certified mail, a resolution to a problem that I thought I might have to take to small claims court. I loaned a friend a substantial amount of money because she was in need at the time. I have been trying to get paid back for about 6 months now. I hadn't spoke to her for a least a month, maybe two. I finally decided I was going to do something about the good chunk she still owed me, so I called her. She ended up sending me future dated checks (payment plan) and a payoff date of the remaining balance. This was all done by certified mail...she stated that she knows she has to do as she wrote or I will pursue this in court which the court would find in my favor. I have to respond to her in writing by mail to seal the agreement. And I will. I am pleased I will be paid in full by the end of March. Our friendship on the other hand...most likely won't be saved. A friend doesn't treat you the way she treated me the past few months. It could have been helped. Apparently she didn't want to help it. She claims she doesn't want our friendship to be ruined...but I think she pretty much did that. Anyhow....I'm being paid back - finally.

Let this be...

the day things start turning around for us.

Please.

Merry Christmas

From our house to yours - Happy Holidays!

Be safe!

It wasn't me

picked for the scheduling position. I found out about 1/2 hr ago. Needless to say, I am extremely disappointed. The person they did pick will do a great job and I will definitely congratulate him but I'm still disappointed. I pretty much feel numb right now. I've been wanting this job for at least, at least, three years if not longer. I have a great work ethic. I have great repoire with the supervisors I would have worked with. It's just a shame.

'nuff said.

Christmas Tree 2005

Joe put it up AND decorated it. He did an awesome job!

Tigger & Fluff

Here is a pic of our two new kitties that I think I mentioned in a previous post.



Tigger is the grey tiger kitty and obviously the fluffly white one is Fluff. They are finally getting used to the house, the other 2 cats & the dog. I didn't mention that our Peanut, was hit last week while playing outside. Joe was playing fetch with him & Buddy. Joe got Buddy to stop while chasing a squirrel but Peanut wasn't listening & ran into the road and a Road Commission truck hit him. May he rest in peace.

Have a good Sunday. I'm off to bed. Just got home from working 12 hrs.

Interview & eBay

I had my interview today for the scheduling position I had mentioned sometime before in a post. Keep your fingers crossed that I get the job. I should know within a week or two.

I also have some items listed on eBay, if you are at all interested.

Have a great night.

Ok, ok....

I'm here! Toni has gotten after me to post - wanting to make sure I'm alright. And I am alright. I appreciate the concern. Just lots of things going on. Don't really want to bring them out here. Just know I'm here. Some days are good, others suck. But I'm alive and still kickin!

We added 2 new kittens to the family night before last. They were orphaned at our babysitters moms house. They are adorable. If you've seen Shrek 2 with Puss 'N Boots and you have seen his big kitty eyes, that is exactly how the one looks, only he's a grey tiger. The other is a fluffy white kitty with black spots. Both males.

Anyhow, I've posted and I'll try to be better on doing so!