Monday, December 29, 2008

Prayers Please

I am writing you tonight to ask for some prayers.
My mother in law Carol has been sick for about 2 ½ weeks. She went to the dr and they thought it was swollen tonsils type infection and gave her antibiotics. 4 days later on Christmas-eve she went into the ER with more pain and her neck was swollen out like a big soft ball. They did a CT Scan and she had an infection in the fluid around her lymphnods. They gave her IV antibiotics and she went home. She was feeling worse Christmas day and wasn’t able to attend the family Christmas party. By the day after Christmas the swelling and pain were much worse and they took her back to the ER and she went into Emergency surgery to drain and clean out the infection. Her white blood counts were extremely high but have started to come down, but the dr. is still not comfortable sending her home until they come down a bit more.

Today we received a phone call that my nephew Blaker (9yrs old) went into the ER with the same symptoms. High fever, vomiting, and swollen neck. They are sending him to Peoria, not sure if its by ambulance or driving, but they couldn’t treat him in the Quad Cities. I don’t have all the details but Chris said it sounds like he will need surgery as well. This has been very painful for Carol, and now I worry that poor Blaker is going thru the same thing.

Please keep Carol and Blaker in your thoughts and prayers.
Please pray that surgery goes well for Blaker,
and that they both heal quickly.
Thanks so very much,
Shel

Sunday, December 21, 2008

Christmas ornaments

Well, we finally have a tree. Because we were going to move we put off getting the tree, then when we found out we were not going to move we finally went out to get one. Since it was so late in the season we decided to skip the tree farm and just get a pre-cut tree. That was a nightmare since Lowes didnt have anymore and we were stuck getting a road side tree. That wouldnt be so bad, but we just had a terrible ice storm so everything was covered in ice. We brought home the tree and defrosted it in the garage overnight and its now sitting in my livingroom waiting to be decorated.

Last night we decided to go buy new ornaments and they are all sitting on the table waiting to be hung. We have a tradition every year everyone gets to pick out a new ornament. I usually pick out an Angel one in memory of my cousin Adrianne. Last night I was pleased to find the cow ornament our friends Matt and Dawn bought in memory of their beautiful son Kevin. I just had to buy it. I always want to be reminded of the sweet little boy that we were so lucky to have known and loved.

Today I got out my box of ornaments and started going thru them. I should remember that this is a very hard time for me, as some of the ornaments have special meaning to me. The first one that caught my eye was an ornament we were given the first Christmas after Adrianne was taken from us. "Merry Christmas From Heaven." It has a poem that goes with it and it always leaves me in tears. The why's come back and the pain hurts. But I remember that we were lucky to be family for a short period of time and I am greatful for that. Then I saw my Max, and Isis ornaments and the tears began to fall again. Max and Isis were our old dogs that have passed away. So I sat there looking at Kevin's, Adrianne's, Max, and Isis's ornaments and cried. And now I am waiting for Chris to come home so we can put all the sad, silly, funny, happy, and new memories up on the tree and enjoy the wonderful smell of the tree, and the spirit of the holiday fill the house as the kids anxiously count down 4 more days till Santa comes.


I miss you sweet Adrianne and Kevin, but you will always be in my heart, and never ever forgotten. I will celebrate your memory every year when I place your ornaments upon my tree.
Merry Christmas from Heaven
I still hear the songs
I still see the lights
I still feel your love
on cold wintery nights
I still share your hopes
and all of your cares
I'll even remind you
to please say your prayers
I just want to tell you
you still make me proud
You stand head and shoulders
above all the crowd.
Keep trying each moment
to stay in His grace
I came here before you
to help set your place.
You don't have to be
perfect all of the time
He forgives you the slip
If you continue the climb.
To my family and friends
please be thankful today
I'm still close beside you
In a new special way.
I love you all dearly
now don't shed a tear
Cause I'm spending my
Christmas with Jesus this year.
~ by John Wm. Mooney Jr.

Lots of Love,
Shel

Wednesday, December 17, 2008

BAH HUMBUG !!!

WHY !!! Why does it have to be Christmas time? WHY when I am settled into an amazing series. I just bought book 2 last night, well, yeah, I finished the book today. I have NEVER EVER read a whole book in 24hrs. I just couldnt put it down. Now I want to go to the store and buy book 3, but NOOOOO! Chris and Katey wont let me. Chris laid down the Christmas law. If there is something you really really want and its Christmas time, you cant go out and buy yourself said thing. WHAT !?!?! SERIOUSLY ?!?! I want, I NEED book 3. I dont want to wait a whole flippin week to get my next book. So now, I am going to fix a drink, and go pout in my bed and catch up on my soaps.
AND think of Edward.... yummy vampire!

Shel

Tuesday, December 16, 2008

The house

Well, Chris and I were THIS close to getting a new house.
We found a really nice rent to own and we were all ready to give a deposit and move in this weekend. We had been working out a few small details and one big detail. Because of Ashlyn I cant work out of the home. She still gets sick way to easy and I just cant put her in a daycare center. So the only way I can get any income is if I am the babysitter, and the owners of the home have a strict no business in the home policy. I talked to them and they had concerns with the added liability and wear and tear on the home. I assured them I would take out an additional $500K liability ins. for the daycare and they still wouldnt budge. Chris and I discussed it and this is a nice home, but we are not willing to go thru with it if I can not make an income babysitting. So its off. Im bummed, but we got another plan in motion. Now I can decorate this house for Christmas, and I look forward to my sister coming up for New Years Eve.

But since I dont have to pack, I went ahead and bought the 2nd book of the Twilight series.. Im already on Chap. 5, and Im going to bed to cuddle up with my book.
Lots of Love,
Shel

P.S. My cousin Erin just had a baby girl tonight !!!

Monday, December 15, 2008

The Mom song

HOLY CRAP !!!
This is amazing, I almost stood up to applaud right here at my computer.
You will LOVE this!

Saturday, December 13, 2008

Sat. Night

Well tonight is a bummer night for me.
Our really great friends back home are celebrating and having a party, and we couldnt go home. I miss having them all so close. But on the bright side, we will have a HUGE house and will have to invite everyone up to our house for a party some time. We actually meet with the guy tomorrow to get the final draft of the paperwork and will hopefully be moving in next weekend.

Today, the kids were on better behavior and they got to go see Twilight. On a scale of 1 - 10 we gave the movie an 8. The book is definately a 10!!! I had Katey prepared that the movie was not going to be better than the book so she wasnt completly disapointed. We were surprised at the amount of stuff that wasnt in the book, and the stuff that was in the book was rushed. We also felt that in the book Bella wasnt afraid of Edward at all, and in the movie she seemed terrified all the time. BUT, we really enjoyed it, and she already wants to go back and see it again. Im still completly in love with Edward. Katey asked after the movie... "Mom, now that we read the book, and we have seen the movie, do you find yourself wishing you were a vampire?" I laughed and said, "yeah, when we got home and I gave Daddy a hug, I bit his neck." We both laughed, but Chris didnt think it was very funny.

Well, I am off to bed, bummed that we didnt get a single drunk dial.... but hey, its midnight, the night is still young.

Lots of Love,
Shel

Friday, December 12, 2008

My kids are in B I G trouble!

Well about 10 mins before Chris got home the kids decided it would be a great time to get in a fight. My kids usually argue or bicker back and forth, but the do NOT fight. I told them to push the dirty clothes down the stairs to the laundry room, well Brandon didnt move fast enough for her so she took it upon her self to tell him to get up NOW!.. Well now Brandon wasn't moving NOW because Katey is not his boss so he just sat on the couch and watched tv. Now Katey decides he isnt going to watch tv until he helps her move the laundry and she said.... Oh No you dont! you are NOT watching cartoons. Get up and help me NOW. Bran replys with move out of the way Katey, you are not my boss... She then turns the tv off. He turns it back on with the remote. She turns it off again and stands in front of the spot so he cant turn it on with a remote. He yells MOVE KATEY, she says NO, you need to help me or you are not watching tv. Bran growls at her and runs across the room and slams into her and trys pushing her out of the way and this is when I hear that they are actually fighting and not arguing. I come down stairs to see Bran trying to push Katey out of the way, and Katey pushing back to stay in her spot. Neither one saw me there and BAM I swat them both on their asses before they know Im there. They both jump up and turn around and look at me and start to "tattle" on the other one. I am now furious that they were fighting and scream over them.... GET YOUR BUTTS ON YOUR BEDS RIGHT NOW AND I DONT WANT TO HEAR A SOUND FROM EITHER OF YOU! With that they both look at each other and give each other that ugh sound of disaproval that its obviously the other ones fault. I then scream again... I SAID NOT A SOUND, THE MOVIE IS OFF !! YOU ARE BOTH GROUNDED !!! Tears and screams as they go to their rooms, and 5 mins later Chris walks in to a wife who is still steaming mad at his 2 oldest children.

So.... I hope this is not a sign of how the weekend will be.
Shel

Thursday, December 11, 2008

I finished the book

OMG, OMG, OMG, OMG
I Need the next book. I swear the last few Chapters I read without breathing. I know the last few paragraphs I held my breath, and Katey noticed. She said, Man the end must be good.... breath mom, breath!

I told Katey she is staying up late to read. She must read on the bus, she must read at recess, and she must read the second she walk in the door. I want to see the movie TOMORROW NIGHT.

She wants to get the next books for Christmas, and I thought how on earth will I survive waiting till Christmas to get the next book, but if there is any way at all that we will move out of this house next weekend, I cant possibly start the next book.

Ok, I have to do some laundry, do some dishes, and get the muchkins in bed.
Lots of Love,
Shel

Wednesday, December 10, 2008

Twilight update

HOLY CRAP !!!
If you are not reading this book you are totally missing out. I have been trying to read and then Chris gets pouty after a little bit so I put it away for the night. So I was only about 2 chapters in and I went to bed early last night to get some reading done.. I only got to Chapter 5 and Chris was wanting to watch a movie and pouting that I wasnt talking to him.. so I put it away. Well tonight I decided to read it while Bran was doing homework. HOLY CRAP !!! Im almost halfway thru the book. I swear I looked at the clock and it was 6:30 and I looked at it again about 5 mins later and its now 8:30. I just dont want to put it down. Katey keeps asking... "what part are you at now?" This book is really great and sucks you in really quickly. This is a must read!!! I cant wait to finish it so we can go watch the movie.

Im off to tuck my kiddo's in bed, and settle down for some more reading.
Oh and for anyone who's read the book.... Im already totally in love with Edward!

Shel

Monday, December 8, 2008

Twilight

Ok, I have to admit, I am going to read the book with Katey.
I have heard way too much hype about how awesome the book is, and how great the movie is. Katey ordered the book at her book fair, and since it is in the house, I am curious, and I am starting the book tonight. Katey is already half way thru the book, and has been hooked every free moment reading. She wants me to hurry up and catch up so we can discuss what we are reading. Then when we are done, we are going on a mommy, daughter date to see the movie. Im really excited and am going to go now, so I can catch up on this book. I'll keep you posted on my progress, or if its as awesome as they say it is, I'll post when I am done. Oh and I am still suffering from a bad cough and I am going to make a follow up appt. with my doctor. I finished the steroids and the antibiotic, but I am still not 100% and this cough is horrible. So my "goal" for Dec, is out the window so far. Im hoping I can catch up, and make up my missed days, but I have to get feeling better first.
Off to relax and cuddle up to Twilight.

Lots of Love,
Shel

Sunday, December 7, 2008

Dec. 7th

Ok, so far December is not my month to blog. Im really sorry!
So far I am behind on my dec. goal of working out. Im feeling better from my pneumonia, and Brandon is feeling better too. I brought him into the dr. on Thurs, because he was still in pain and I didnt know what else to do. The dr. looked in his throat and it was infected. After the emergency surgery they should have prescribed antibiotics but they didnt and the Ped. was pretty ticked off. 24hrs. after starting the antibiotic and Bran was eating everything in site. The boy has more color in his cheeks and his throat doesnt hurt at all. He went to school on Friday and surprised everyone when he showed up with all his long hair chopped off, and 2 missing front teeth. The teacher told him, had he not walked up and said Hi to her, she would not have known who he was.

This weekend was really a nice weekend for me. I took Katey and her friend Krissie Christmas shopping. Katey bought for Brandon, Ashlyn, and Daddy, and Krissie bought for her Mom, and her 3 brothers. Every year Cassie and I buy gifts for our kids and put each other's names on it. This way we get what our kids like, and we dont have to ship it. I called Cassie all excited because I picked up PJ's and slippers from her to my kids, and she giggled because she bought her kids robes and slippers from me... we are so awesome! Then I took Brandon shopping today for Dad, Ash, and Katey. He picked out really nice stuff for all of them, and then we went to lunch. This evening, Chris and I went and got a few things for the kids. I just love Christmas.

The plans for this week are to fax our attorney the papers on the house that we want, and if all goes well we should be moving into the house Dec. 19th. Im not going to get too excited though, because there are some def. things we want changed in the papers and if he's not willing to make those changes then we are NOT going thru with the deal. I figure its a buyers market right now and I am not settleing. But I really hope it all works out.

Anyway, I think I am gonna shower, get PJ's on, and cuddle up with the kids and Chris and watch a movie.

Lots of Love,
Shel

Tuesday, December 2, 2008

Dec 2.

Well the 2nd day into the challenge and Im already doomed.
I have pneumonia, great, pneumonia... How does a person work out when they cant breath? I guess I'll have to keep track of how much missed time and make it up another day. Im bummed. Im going back to bed.

Shel

Monday, December 1, 2008

Dec. 1st.. new challange

Well, I did pretty well for 30 days of blogging.
This month I am going to do a 30 mins. of exercising every single day for the month of Dec. I will blog every day to show I actually worked out.
This will be a hard month with Christmas and all, but I think I can do it.

SHEL

Sunday, November 30, 2008

Day 30

Well so far we have been lucky.
Its wet out, but not a lot of snow, and not freezing cold. Its melting as fast as it comes down. I can deal with this.

But the bad news.....
Out stupid, mean, cat is sick. She's really skinny and at 1.5 yrs old she is so skinny she still looks like a kitten. She has these scabs on her neck, but no fleas, and she's been peeing in the house more, and she is now loosing a ton of hair. I took her to the vet today and she will us take her out and pet her, but she wont let the vet or anyone else near her. When the vet took her in back to get blood work and stuff, she wouldnt even let them open the cage door. So now I have to bring her back tomorrow to be sedated so they can scrape her scabs to check for parasites, test her blood, and do a full exam on her. I asked about giving her her shots and the vet said to wait until we know whats going on. She said she fears its something serious and doesnt want us shelling out a ton of money on shots and spaying if she is sick. We have not told the kids the vet feels she has a serious condition and will wait to we find out more.

But the good news.....
We heard back from the mortgage guy and he feels we qualify for a loan, I need to find out if we qualify for what the house is worth and should know this week if we are going ahead with the house. I am so excited and hope that we get to spend Christmas in our new house.

I am sick and exhausted so I am heading to bed.
Lots of Love,
Shel

Saturday, November 29, 2008

Day 29

I HATE THE FREAKIN SNOW !!!

I just checked the weather.com and it says we are under a winter storm warning and snow should start any time now. It will snow all day tomorrow and into the night and we should have 6inches by Monday morning... I hate the cold, I hate the snow, but I do love warm fire's when its cold out, and hot cocoa.

FREAKIN SNOW !!!
Shel

Friday, November 28, 2008

Day 28

Not much going on today.
I met Jen and the kids and went to firehouse - pottery place.
I had Timmy and Maddie, and Paige come too, and everyone made gifts for someone else. It was a really great time, and the kids loved it.

This evening we are going to Osaka, its my fav. Japanese resturant. Not sure whats going on tonight. We might go out, play cards, or even head home.

Have a great Black Friday.
Shel

Thursday, November 27, 2008

Day 27

HAPPY THANKSGIVING !!!

We had a very nice dinner at my Aunt Jo's house last night with our family, and today we celebrated the whole day with Chris' side of the family. His family always has full day holiday's so everyone can make either lunch or dinner, or whatever fits your schedule and it makes having to share the holiday with other family members so nice. So we had a really nice lunch, and then sat around talking, then we had some desert, then we played some games (which I was the brunt of many jokes -Thanks Candice, Jen and CAROL... you just wait till Christmas!) But all jokes were in fun, and everyone had a great time. Then we had some dinner and sat around talking with Jen and Chad till about 10pm. It was a nice relaxing day. Oh and today was Carol and Chris' little cousin Abby's birthday, and yesterday was his little cousin Garrett's birthday... just another reason to celebrate.

Brandon is doing really well, you can tell when the meds start to wear off, but other than that he has played well, and rested well, and is doing really really good.... Im just not sure how he would have handled eating without Aunt Mabes fantastic noodles.

Well I am off to tuck the kids in bed and go to sleep myself, I am exhausted.
Oh and Candice... get studying!
Lots of Love,
Shel

Wednesday, November 26, 2008

Day 26

I just got back from the dr. and he said Brandon looks great. He said is blood counts are a little low, but still in the safe zone, and he is healing great. He gave us the all clear to travel 2hrs to the QC to celebrate Thanksgiving. YIPPIE !! We still have to make him rest, and we still have to keep him on meds and watch what he eats, but WE GET TO GO !!!

So Im gonna go pack, and clean, and load the van, and Chris decided to come home early.

I hope everyone has a safe, fun, Thanksgiving.
Shel

Tuesday, November 25, 2008

Day 25

Well if you read my missed day 24 post, you know that I had a horrible night. Not much to say tonight. Im exhausted.

Bran is resting comfortably, and is very weak, very pale, very tired, and very grumpy. He got mad at me for eating peanut butter toast in front of him.
Sorry dude, next time listen to your wise all knowing Mama.

Im heading to bed early,
Nighty night.
Shel

No day 24... EMERGENCY ROOM

Sorry now day 24 post.
I like posting in the evening so I can write about how the day went.
Well, last night Brandon wanted to eat some chips because he was feeling better, I said NO, Dad said Yes as long as he chews it real good. I again said no and went into the other room in protest. The chips were fine, then he wanted some sausage, I again huffed in disagreement but this time I didnt even argue with Chris, he knew I was against it and it wasnt worth a fight.... so I thought. A mothers intuition is usually right, and as soon as he swallowed the sausage he grabbed his throat and started crying, and spitting up blood, he went to the bathroom, opened his mouth and blood started pouring out. I wanted to go to the ER but Chris said no lets wait, he did this the other day too and it stopped. So after about 20 mins and still blood I called the dr. By the time the dr called he only had pink spit so we thought it was better, but then he cleared his throat and blood started flowing again. Dr said to get to the ER right away.

I arrive at the ER and have a bucket of blood and Brandon started saying his "punchy bag thing in his throat was wrong and he couldnt breath". I called the nurse and she walked in and OMG he started vomiting clots after clots of blood. A LOT OF BLOOD, not blood mixed with saliva so it looks like blood, this was thick red blood and the nurse ran for the dr. He looked in his throat and said there was still a big clot back there and he was NOT touching it so he called the ENT who needed to get there quick for emergency surgery. After the surgery the ENT said it was a good thing the ER doc left the clot alone because it was on an artery and when he removed it, it started pumping blood. So he ended up admitting him since it was now 2am and he wanted to make sure he didnt throw up and rip something else open.

We are now home and Brandon is resting comfortably.
I need a nap.

Shel

Sunday, November 23, 2008

Day 23

Ok, so Im full of some happy juice right now, so this post should be interesting to read in the morning hours. So I never thought anyone read my blog, really if nobody reads you can blog about anything and NOBODY cares. Holdy crap, I put this tracker thing on my blog and people from all over the place check me out. Wow, you checkin me out and not tellin me how hot my shit is??? Why doesnt anyone comment? So anyway, Im totally obsessed with this tracker, and I have had people from Omaha... what up lil sis! And people from Mokena... ok that's just me, People from carlsbad CA... Im guessing this is you cousin/sis Ellie... And I have visits from Port Byron.. that must be my good friends Jeni, and Dawn... but the rest of you.. Who are you?
Im calling you out Greensville North Carolina... sign my guestbook
Prescot Arizona... you know you wanna sign my guestbook
Belleville Illinois... where the heck is belleville? Sign baby sign.
Holy smokes.. Des Moines?? You know you wanna sign my guestbook.
NEW YORK !!! Is this family??? are you family and not signing my guestbook?
Findlay Ohio... I'll give you a dollar if you sign..
I even had someone from Halifax, Calderdale... where is this? Im so excited you visited me.
Geneseo... who are you?

I am so excited to know that people are coming to my site.
keep it up, and if you are bored with what I am writing, what do you wanna know about me? Cuz I still have 7 more day that I have to blog every day and I need some idea's already.

Ok, gettin bugged by the ever so handsome hubby, and I think I need another shot of happy juice.

Nighty night all,
Shel

Saturday, November 22, 2008

Day 22

Today Chris decided to make my Grandpa's famous Amaretto Cake. Gpa always used a Dunkin Heinz yellow cake, and Chris wants to try and make it from scratch with no box mixes. So today he is making it and I sit here smelling this cake cook, and it smells yummy, and I watch as Chris puts the drizzle on the cake and now the cake looks and smells like my Gpa's cake. Yeah, the emotional side in me kicked in and I got all teary eyed. This will be the first Thanksgiving without my Grandpa, and Thanksgiving was the last holiday I got to spend with my cousin Adrianne.

On a happier note, Kathryn is having a slumber party tonight with 6 of her friends from school. Should be fun. Brandon's getting better every day, and Ashlyn has def. hit 3 1/2yrs old. Not sure why the 1/2 yrs are so bad, but she's got full attitude.

Im off to finish cleaning and try this yummy cake.
Shel

Friday, November 21, 2008

Day 21

Not much to write about today.
But I heard this song today and thought it was hillarious.
I couldnt make this shit up if I tried.
I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
Shel

Thursday, November 20, 2008

Day 20

My husband.....

Chris and I went to Highschool together. He had a girlfriend Laura all thru highschool, and I pretty much dated Hector all thru highschool. I had algebra with Chris my freshman year, and Hector would walk me to class and everyday would get jealous of Chris. Everyday he would say, you like him dont you, and I would say No I dont. BUT, there was always something about Chris that I did like. But he always had a girlfriend, and I always had a boyfriend. Then my senior year, I went to prom with a friend Kevin, and Chris went with Laura. I was friends with both him and Laura and we had mutual friends. So our group hung out all night. Its funny because I have a video tape of all of us goofing around all night playing games, and being silly.

Well the weekend I turned 18, I went to a birthday party with my sister for her friend Carrie. Carrie had been dating Chris, but pretty much had him on hold so she could get back with her other boyfriend. Chris was at this party and brought his 4wheeler. Chris was the only other person I knew at the party and we hung out all night. I got a ton of 4wheeler rides. Well that night, I didnt have a curfew for the first time in my life, and I didnt want to go home. So Chris and I went out that night, driving around in his truck and on the 4wheeler, then we came back to my mom's and watched movies till about 4am. We went out every single night that week, that month, HOLY CRAP, how did it get to be 12yrs married? He was just the one. I guess I always knew it because there was always that pull, that something about him.

Now he is my husband of 12yrs, he is the father of my children, he is still the love of my life, and yes, he is my best friend. Chris and I talk about everything, and seriously when I say everything I mean it. If there is a hot guy that said hello to me today, Chris is the first person I call up, and he is the same way. We just fit, perfectly.

Well, yesterday we were at the hospital with Ashlyn. She was very nervous about the IV and all the monitor stuff they had on her to check her heart and to check her oxygen levels. When they took her to the procedure room, she was crying that she was thirsty. Chris reached up and grabbed the IV bag, and in the sweetest, calmest voice explained to her that the water in the bag goes thru the tubes in her IV so that she can have water without even having to drink it. She smiled and started asking him questions about it. The 3 young nurses that were standing there just got this awww face and looked at each other. Yes, they would have been putty in his hands had he not been married. And I just looked at him and thought to myself... yup, he's mine ladies, ALL MINE. I swear there is nothing sexier than watching a man be a sweet, tender, loving daddy.

Ashlyn did well and they found nothing serious. She was resting all night, and today woke up with a major appitite. Brandon seems to be in more pain the last 2 days, and today has pretty much just laid on the couch crying.. my poor baby.

So I am off to go make my kiddo's comfy.
Lots of Love,
Shel

Wednesday, November 19, 2008

Day 19

Hey everyone,
Just wanted to give you a heads up that my pop-pop is doing ok. Mom called last night and said his visiting nurse jumped the gun a little bit. He has bronchitis and wasnt doing his inhaler right, thats why he was having trouble breathing. So Im not sure if he is home or not, but it sounds like he will be ok.

Please keep Ashlyn in your thoughts today. She has her colonoscopy today, and so far the prep has been really hard on her. My poor baby has been pooping her brains out. She's extra crabby this morning, and between her and Brandon... chris and I were up almost all night.
I'll update later with how everything went.

Shel

Tuesday, November 18, 2008

Pop Pop

Hey,
I just got a call my grandfather just was taken by ambulance to the hospital.
Dont know why, dont know anything. Dont even know if this is bad.

Please pray for my gpa, as he has not been doing well lately.
Shel

Day 18

Ok, today I am really really anxious.
We went and looked at a house thats rent to own, its HUGE. We filled out our apps, and the guy just picked them up. I really really hope this works out. This would be the perfect house for us, its close to Katey and Brandon's friends house, and its in their school district. Did I say its HUGE. It would give us a ton more room, and a basement w/pool table. I know I always do this, I get really excited about something before we even know if its possible. Cross your fingers everything works out.

Shel

Monday, November 17, 2008

Day 17

WOW,
I put in this new tracker and lots of people check out my blog.
So if you are a secret blog checker-outer leave me a comment of who you are, and where you are from.... this is so exciting. I didnt know anyone read my blog.

Ok, so other news... I watched this news clip on CNN about an unmotivated boy, and he adopted a us soldier as a pen pal and it has helped the boy out a ton. It was really cute, and I checked out this website... www.adoptaussoldier.org and decided this might be fun for my family to do. So I signed up and today I got our soldier. His name is Jeremy K. I cant give out anymore information to keep his info. private for his safety. But I am very excited and cant wait to share this news with the kids. I emailed him today, and plan on getting a package ready to ship by this weekend. I cant wait to hear back from him. Also, please if you are religious, please pray for our soldier Jeremy K.

Brandon news... He is doing much better today. I had to back him off of the tylenol with codein meds due to some pretty bad nausea. He's doing so much better. He was starting to get dehydrated and is doing much better getting the fluids down now that he's not so nautious. He has gotten up a few times to play today, but tires out easily. He's now resting in my bed watching cartoons.

Not much else to report so check in tomorrow.
Dont forget to leave a comment.
Shel

Sunday, November 16, 2008

Day 16

Today has been a pretty rough day for Boy.
He's been struggling with really bad nausia today and pain. Its been very hard to get him to eat or drink anything, and he started crying when I stood over him and made him eat a popsicle. You know its bad when a kid wont eat a popsicle. So he took a bite and grabbed the puke bucket and cried. I asked why he doesnt want to eat or drink, is it because your throat hurts. He said No, its cuz my tummy hurts and I think Im gonna puke. I called the dr. and he had me stop the tylenol with codein and give him ibuprofin for now. The pain should be at its worst around wed. or thurs this week, so he will need to go back on it. For now we have to get his tummy in control so he doesnt get dehydrated.

Tonight he is doing much much better. He ate a popsicle, and even ate some mashed potatoes. He's been in a much better mood too. Right now he is watching a comedy guy... Jeff Dunham with Chris and Katey.

Oh, other good news.. Chris and I have been talking about buying a house. We found a house that is rent to own, and its in the kids school district. We went and looked at it today and its HUGE. Im really excited about it and hope this works out.

I'll be back tomorrow for another update.
Shel

What happened to Day 15?

Sorry, there was no post for Day 15.

Brandon's in a lot of pain, and its a big fight to get him to drink anything, even eat a popscicle. He wont even talk. I feel so bad for him, but I know this is all to make him better. We are only on day 3, and days 4-6 are the WORST. So its hard to know that worst is still to come. MY POOR BABY.

I'll update later today and tell you how he's doing.
Shel

Friday, November 14, 2008

Day 14, updated

What a day.
We went for surgery this morning and it was not at the hospital, but at a surgery center across from the hospital. In the waiting room everything seemed ok, then they take us back to get him into a gown, and to wait to be taken into the surgery room. This 2nd waiting room was actually in recovery. This was pretty much an open room and half the room was for pre-op patients, and the other half was post-op. They had patients in and out so fast that Chris and I felt a bit uncomfortable. We felt like they just had patients stacked back to back. Im sure in the regular surgery in the hospital its the same way, but you are not right there seeing it all in the same room. There was no privacy and it was pretty crazy to see people in and out so quickly. Chris at one point said, should we reschedule for at the hospital cuz I dont like this at all. But because he's out of school for so long, and this has one of the weeks as a vacation week, its the best time for him to have it and miss the least amount of school. So we decided to just go thru with it.

Brandon was not scared at all, as we always tell him everything to expect, and he was really looking forward to the surgery. He didnt like waiting in the room, and asked the nurse if "we could get his party started" at one point. I had to explain to her that Bran's not afraid of needles, or blood, and wasnt scared of surgery either. I on the other hand had major butterfly's. So when they finally came to get him, he waved goodbye and started walking to the doors we had seen so many people go in and come back out. The nurse just looked at me with this WOW look on her face.

About 20 mins later the surgeon was already done and ready to talk to us. HOLY CRAP!! He's done? Which made us feel even more that we will never come back to this place, just made us feel like it was all rushed. Another 15 mins later and we are back in the room with Bran who is already eating a popscicle and looking quite stoned (for lack of better word). They gave him Demerol and Fentanol in surgery. After about 20 mins he started complaining about his throat and they gave him 2 more doses of Fentanol and we were being shipped out the door another 20 mins after his last dose. So basically we walked in the door at 7:30 and out the door at 10:30. I felt it was really soon to be letting us go, but Im sure they needed the space for other surgery patients.

Bran's been doing pretty well tonight. He's obviously uncomfortable, but he's being a total champ. He's not complaining much, but he's talking funny, he looks pitiful, and pale, and looks like it hurts bad when he swallows or talks. Katey got him a clipboard, paper and a pensil so he doesnt have to talk. Also I think he's had over 20 popscicles already today.

Chris, Carol (MIL ) Jim (FIL) and Katey went to see James Bond, and Bran, Ash and I are gonna cuddle up in my bed and watch a movie.

lots of love,
Shel

Day 14


Brandon has his surgery this morning.

Tonsils -out

Adnoids -out

and Turbinoplasty
(basically redoing the inside of his nose, filing down the cartlidge)

This is pretty painful and he will be out of school for 2 weeks, plus back to school for at least 1 week with no physical activity. Thoughts and prayers today are welcomed.

Lots of Love,
Shel

Thursday, November 13, 2008

Day 13

Tonight Carol and Jim, Chris parents, drove up to come watch Katey play basketball, and watch Ashlyn and Kathryn tomorrow while we are at the hospital with Brandon. Katey had a very good game, and both the A and B teams WON!!!
GO OAKVIEW.

Carol and Jim got to see Katey make a basket, and it was a very very intense game. I dont think I have ever been so stressed in all her games. This was a close game, and you couldnt go 1 min without at least 5 fouls being called, so this of course streatched the game out. It game down to the last sec. and the game was 12 -13. WHEW! Even the coach said, "holy cow, I am so drained, I feel like I played the entire game." It was a great final game.

Then after the game we went to dinner at our fav. Papa Joe's. They have the BEST italian food. Then we came home and Carol, who was afraid to even look at our snake Charlie, held him. It was really cool. Now we are off to bed, and have to get up early for surgery tomorrow.

Notice Charlie crawled up thru her hair.
Carol laughing at Charlie crawling around her neck.
I'll update tomorrow how things go.
Lots of Love,
Shel


Wednesday, November 12, 2008

Day 12

GAUDET !!!
If you are reading this blog and you know me, you know that name. GAUDET!
Its one of the names that make my stomach turn. If you dont know me, Nate Gaudet is one of the kids who helped dismember my murdered cousin Adrianne Reynolds. Jan 25th it will be 4yrs ago. Nate plead guilty to conceiling a homicide and was sentenced up to 5yrs in Juvy. I learned tonight, that Nate GAUDET was released from Juvy yesterday. We knew this was coming. The reason they want to release him at this time, is so he can be on probation for a year without his records being sealed. If they waited till his 21st birthday he wouldnt have to be on probation and his juvy records are sealed on his 21st birthday. Basically, the government can be a watch dog over him for this next year, and if he gets into trouble he will have a past and will go to prison. I understand it, I dont like it. Its an uneasy feeling, knowing that someone capable of dismembering a body, and throwing it away like garbage, is walking around free right now. How does anyone who know what happened feel safe right now? Seriously, knowing I could go home to visit family, and walk into Target, and Nate Gaudet could be standing right there. Very unsettling feelings right now. I pray to God, that he changes his life around. I pray to God that he doesnt get back into partying, and the same crowd as before. I pray to God, that the people allow him to change his life, I just hope I never have to be "those people". I hope me and my children never have to come face to face with that monster. I can not believe the emotional rollercoaster this whole mess has been. I can not explain what I feel right now.
Why's and How's come back.

Why did he do this?
Why did he help them?
How can they let someone like this out of jail?
I have a lot of soul searching to do right now.
Somehow I have to come to peace with this.
How?? How do I come to peace with this?

A very disapointed, yet understanding, yet oh so confused,
Shel

Tuesday, November 11, 2008

Day 11

So far so good, I have posted on my blog every day for 11 straight days. My goal is 30 posts in 30 days. Im enjoying blogging everyday.

Today the kids are home from school to celebrate Gpa Jim's birthday, ok and its veterans day too. The morning has been pretty lazy, as its cold outside, but this afternoon is filled with dr. appts. Ash has been to the gastro (tummy dr.) before because of an issue she has. I have a follow up today and we got a big of a scare the other day when she started pooping blood, and this tissue looking stuff. I know gross, but she did. He said it sounds like she has a polyp, and wants to schedule a colonoscopy. So he's gonna check her out today and schedule that appt. Luckily for her they will completly knock her out for it. I was nervous at first but it will give us a lot of answers, and will not only look for polyps but could give us answers to why other things are happening.

Then Bran has a pre-surgery appt. Its really just to check and make sure he is healthy enough to have the surgery. He's hoping for shots, but he wont get any today, unless they need a blood check for some reason. His surgery is scheduled for this Friday, and he has to be there at 7am.

Well, I am off to eat lunch and head to the dr. appts.
Lots of Love,
Shel

Monday, November 10, 2008

Day 10

Today was FAN-tastic.
I was actually a FAN at Kathryn's basketball game. This was their last home game. Chris stayed home today so he could go to her game. What a perfect day to choose to go. Both the A and B teams played very very well. Kathryn's last year teacher, Mr. Parker, is the announcer for the game.. well since, he was her last years teacher he knows that she is completely in love with Orlando Bloom,,,, so when he announces her he says....
"and number 12 is oakviews very own... KATHRYN BLOOOOOOM !!!"
And when she scores he says....
"and that basket was scored by BLOOOOOOM". This of course makes Katey's night, and all of her friends squeel in delight.

Ok, back to the game... The team did great, the totally kicked butt, and even Kathryn scored.

I am so happy with how well her team has improved every week, and how well they work together. She's got a real good bunch friends.

And now, Im going to bed.
Shel

Sunday, November 9, 2008

Day 9

Today has been nice.
I woke up this morning to find my baby girl sleeping between me and Chris, and Chris with is hand upon my cheek, just looking at us sleep. It was so sweet to feel him rub my cheek and to open my eyes and see the gentle look of love and admaration in his eyes. Then I feel back to sleep. I then woke again to Ashlyn whispering in my ear, that I was her favorite, favorite, favorite princess in the EVER! She then rubbed my face and my head and said "Shhh, Shhh go back to sleep pretty mommy princess." It was so awesome. I snuggled my head up next to her and she just held me and laid really still so I wouldnt wake up. It was a magical morning. When I finally crawled out of bed, I walked into the hall and Kathryn was just walking out at the same time. She smiled and gave me a huge hug. I told her I had been reading that book she wanted me to read and we went to the table and both started reading our books. She's reading the next book, and apparently I have to read it too.

We have had a fire going all weekend, and had wood delievered this morning. Its the same guy we got it from last year, and he's really nice. Chris and him stacked it right outside the garage door, and this will be much easier to get at than last year.

Then Chris and I went to Jewel-Osco... ALONE! The kids didnt want to go, and Ashlyn asked sissy if she could stay with her. It was so nice to go and not have to yell at the kids for running or getting into stuff. Now Chris is mowing leaves and we will be going to Target later to get the girls winter coats. Brandon says tonight it movie night, so we will all get in our jammies, make hot cocoa and snuggle up to watch a movie... I cant wait. What a great day!

Lots of Love,
Shel

Saturday, November 8, 2008

Day 8

Not much happened today.
But today was still nice. I slept in, and Chris woke up with a tummy ache.
Then we decide to go to Best Buy and exchange my camera cuz it broke. They are gonna try to fix it, and if they cant then they will replace it. Then we went to Costco, where I got to see my fav. Costco guy. He was sad though, as he broke up with his boyfriend last night. Yeah, for me, I got an extra hug. I hate when my friends are sad. I told him it was ok, cuz we still loved him and he laughed. I guess I am always good for a laugh. Then we came home and Katey and Brandon had turned the house into a resturante. We were seated, given a menu, a candle was lit. It was soo cute. I ordered a hot cocoa with baileys, and some goldfish. I got a chocolate pudding for desert. Chris just ordered a hot cocoa with cream. Ashlyn ordered a juice and goldfish. It was so cute too cuz they got all dressed up, and Brandon even put his suit on. Then when it was over we even got a bill.... The whole bill came to $4. Im sooo going to the KK cafe again!!! Then Chris and the kids decided to cook hotdogs on the top of the wood burning stove. I just love the smell of a wood burning fire. Now Katey is at a friends house spending the night. I plan on watching SNL with Chris, and just relaxing the rest of the night.

Have a great night,
Shel

Friday, November 7, 2008

Happy birthday sweet Kevy

Today is baby Kevin's 3rd birthday.

We love and miss you sweet boy.
You are always in our thoughts and so are your mommy, daddy, and sister.
Im sure today you are having the most beautiful heavenly birthday, and we wish we could be there to celebrate with you.

Missing you so much today, and always
Shel

Day 7 - my sister

Im so bummed today, my sister had to go home.
It's been a great week, and I love my sister so much. I seriously dont get to see her as often as I like. My sister is my best friend, and I already miss her. She totally made fun of me for crying when she left, but Im a cryer, I cry about everything. I even cried last night when we watched Gray's Anatomy.

So today we got the kids ready for school, and Cassie kissed them goodbye. Katey was really sad, and Bran was like.. ok bye. Trysta, Tryton, and Taeya all kissed them goodbye too. Then we all got dressed and went to Target, and then we went to Choo Choo Johny's for lunch. Tryton just LOVES trains, and this place is soooo cool. Its a totally train themed place, and they have a train going constantly above your head, and a train display, and pics all over the walls, and Thomas the Train playing on the tv, and train music, and video games. Tryton was so excited and was smiling ear to ear the whole time. Then when your food is done, they bring it out on a train, and the waitstaff are all dressed as engineers. It was really cool.
Then it was time to go. I really hate saying Goodbye, and hopefully Mike will get this job in Milwaukee and we will only be 2hrs away instead of 7hrs.

I miss you lil sis.
I love you,
Shel

Thursday, November 6, 2008

Day 6

Oh My !!!!!!!!
I almost failed my mission of blogging every day for 30 days. I just went to bed and realized today was the 6th. I pulled my happy butt out of bed and came all the way downstairs to blog. I wish I could be this dedicated to working out. I'd be a hottie in no time. LOL

Anyway,
Today was a good day. Mike and Cassie got here just in time to go to Katey's game. Katey has been sooooo excited about her Uncle Mikey and Aunt Cassie coming to her game. Her team lost, but they played really good. Im so proud of her. There was a little lesson in bad sportsmanship though. One of the opponant team members knocked one of our girls glasses off. Of course this was only an accident. However when the same girl then got elbowed in the ribs, it was out of line, and according to the mother so very deliberate. The girls mom told her if our girl did it again to pop her right in the face. The mother continued saying this crap and even pulled her daughter off the benches to tell her again to "knock her on her ass". Then when the game was over, she continued yelling about this to her daughter and the teamates, and I was not sure if the mother was going to follow the girl out or what was going to happen. I was seriously disapointed in the lack of sportsmanship from this mother. This is NOT what we should be teaching our girls. And our girl, is NOT aggressive at all. This girl got elbowed because she was crowding and our girl turned. It was so sad to see the mom freak out this way. But in the end, nothing came of it, and it was a good discussion on how not to behave at dinner.

I am off to bed now.
Shel

Wednesday, November 5, 2008

Day 5

Wow,
Last night and today have been filled with such excitment and emotion.
Last night was by far the most exciting election of my life. It was so exciting to sit and watch the numbers for Obama just go up and up and up. I was filled with so much hope and enthusiasm that the changes that our country need so desperatly, now have a real chance of happening. Regardless of how things went down, last night was marked forever in the history books. Either way we were having the first black man elected president, or the first women vice president. I am so thrilled, that my children got to be a part of this, and Kathryn will remember this forever.

Last night, we had Tommy and his kids over for dinner, then the kids went home and we started watching the polls. I was very excited about the elections, and also the fact that my sister, Mike, and the kids were on their way to our house. Such a great night. Tommy and Mike voted for McCain, and Me, Chris, and Cassie were OBAMA voters. It was great fun razzing each other all night long. Cassie, Mike and the kids finally got here about 10 and we had a great time hanging out till 2am. I miss my sissy!

Today Mike and Cassie went to Milwaukee for an interview (cross your fingers), and I have had the kids all day, and will have them over night... first time keeping them all night!
We have had a fabulous day, and I will be taking the kids shortly to go get Chris from the train.
Tryton just LOVES trains, so this will be fun.

Tonight I plan on having Chicken taco's, giving 6 kids baths, and all snuggly in Jammies, and settling down for the night. I do have to say, having a chaotic house, full of running kids, laughter, and screaming is the best thing ever!

Shel

Tuesday, November 4, 2008

Day 4

Chris worked from home today because they are anticipating a million people downtown tonight for the election party. So his boss asked if he was coming in, and sent out an email to everyone saying if you plan on working past 3pm, please just work from home. We talked about it last night, and Im sure its in case of rioting. I think a riot could happen out of anger if Obama looses, but I also think a bunch of drunks partying if Obama wins could lead to a riot too. Either way, Im not going anywhere near downtown. I already voted (Obama) and Chris is going to vote today. The kids are out of school today because of elections, and they had their elections yesterday. Kathryn's school voted Obama, and so did Brandon's.

This morning when I woke up, I couldnt stop thinking about the elections. Normally when Chris works from home, I sleep in. I just couldnt sleep in. Next year, I am not voting early, I love being apart of the election DAY. They didnt even give me a I voted sticker until I asked.
So I keep bugging Chris, "go vote", "I will", "go vote now", " I will". Grrr, just go vote already.

So I decide, since I am up early and everyone is home, Im gonna go get Mcdonalds for breakfast.
When I get back Brandon (8yrs) asks Ashlyn (3yrs)"who do you want to vote for? Obama or McCain?" Ashlyn reply's "Bacain" And Brandon quickly says "no Ash, you want Obama". And I quickly jump in and say "no Brandon, if she wants McCain, she can vote for McCain, thats what makes living in the US so great. You dont have to vote how everyone else votes, you get to vote for who you want, so if she wants McCain, dont try and change her opinion." Plus its really cute to hear her say Bacain.

So our house:
4 votes Obama
1 vote McCain

Monday, November 3, 2008

Day 3 blogging

Whew,
Today just flew by. My mom came in town for Katey's basketball game and we had a really nice time. Katey's team lost, but she was really happy to have her Grammie there. Then after we went to Papa Joe's for dinner. My mom and I shared a eggplant parm. and a cup of cream of mushroom soup. VERY YUMMY.
Tomorrow, I have to finish cleaning and mop, and then Wed. night Trysta, Tryton, and Taeya are coming to stay the night. IM SO EXCITED!

Shel

Sunday, November 2, 2008

Day 2 blogging

Ok, so what to blog about today??

Today I went to the store with Chris, we went to Costco where I have the biggest crush on the gayest, cutest costco guy I have ever seen. Chris loves to tease me about this, as the guy is totally gay and has a really cute boyfriend. So we went to costco and I got my hug from my fav. costco guy and that always makes my day. Then we went to Petco to get our snake a rat. Now, we were leaving petco and Chris grabbed my hand and said, you know hunny, last night when we were laying on the couch watching tv, I could totally tell that you have lost weight. Now, this made my day even more than getting a hug at costco. Im down 1 pant size, which isnt a lot, but my kids and my husband are starting to notice, and I have been feeling so much happier about how I look lately. I still have a ways to go, but Im getting there.
GO ME!

Saturday, November 1, 2008

Nov. 1st - month of blogging day 1

Today is the first day of Nov. and I have agreed to blog every day for the month of Nov. I never seem to run out of things to talk about, but lets see if I have enough to BLOG about.

Last night was the most wonderful Halloween we have had in YEARS. I do not remember the last time we didnt have to bundle up in coats, or rain jackets. I was WARM. I even worried that Ashlyn would get too hot in her pony costume. It was great. We met up with a bunch of Katey's friends, and their parents, and went trick or treating in a HUGE group. It was awesome. It was nice to drink a beer and walk with other adults and really enjoy all our children giggling, and shouting, and using their manners. They are a really great bunch of kids. Then after the trick or treating, we went back to her friend Sydney's house. We had hotdogs, chips, and more beer. The kids went inside and the adults hung out in the gargage and driveway. It was a BLAST. We even found a couple who wants us to teach them how to play euchre. NOBODY knows how to play euchre out here.

Then we came back to the house to put Ash down to bed at about 10pm. Katey was having Allie spend the night and they wanted to watch Halloween... icks, I hate scary movies.. thank GOD it was not on, and they ended up ordering Baby Mama and stayed up till 1am. I went to bed.

Today, I am working on cleaning bedrooms, and later we are going to work on the leaves.

Shel

Thursday, October 30, 2008

National blogging month

November is national blogging month... so I am going to update my blog every day for 30 days of Nov. What on earth will I blog about?? Check in to find out!

Shel

Tuesday, October 28, 2008

ok, mexico update

So.... how was Mexico??

First we had to get there!
Fri- Oct 17th,
We were supose to be the first ones to arrive in LA. We flew out of Chicago first thing in the morning, we arrived in Denver and ran to catch our connecting flight. My cousin Ellie was going to be meeting us in LA to spend the day with all of our kids. So we run to the connecting flight and its been cancelled. We run to the customer service desk and there is a HUGE line. I call Ellie and give her a heads up, and hear the disapointment in her voice. Seriously, how can we be soooo close, yet sooo far away? I finally get to the front of the line and the best they can do is get us a flight out at 9:30PM. Ok seriously?? 10 hrs in an airport with 3 children? I was not happy and had to completly cancel our visit with Ellie. Katey was in tears. Luckily the airline compensated us very well and we got $900 worth of airline vouchers and food vouchers. 10 hrs later we are on a plane with 3 kids who are about to lose their minds, and 2 parents who are ready to DRINK! We arrive in LA and finally get into bed at 2am.

Sat- Oct 18th,
Today we woke up early and had breakfast and we were very excited to be able to see our cruise ship from our hotel room. We all (24 of us, wearing matching blue shirts) take shuttles to the pier and wait in line to board the ship. It was stressful and HOT, but we were standing in front of the ship and it was HUGE. We make it thru a long reception line, get registered and whoooo hooo, we get to go onboard! We finally found our room, got on swim suits and headed for the pool to relax the rest of the day! That night after dinner, we took the kids to their first show, it was a hillarious juggler and they had a blast!

Sun - Oct 19th,
Today is Chris and I's 12th wedding Anniversary, and also our first at sea day.
It was really cool being hugged and congratulated by family all day. Jim (my father in law) even got us a present... well, he got me a present... BUBBLE WRAP! I am sooo addicted to bubble wrap and cracked up laughing when I opened it. The kids spent almost the entire day at the pool, and it was really nice to just sit by the pool and drink, and chit chat. Very relaxing day. Chris and the kids and I dressed up nice for dinner, Bran even wore his suit. At dinner a very proud Carol (my mother in law) told the wait staff that it was our anniversary, and they brought us a cake and sang "Let me call you sweetheart, Im in love with you". It was really sweet. We got family pics taken that night, and Ashlyn was very exhausted and crashed early.

Mon - Oct 20th,
Today was our first port day. We arrived in Cabo San Lucas and took a catamaran ride to Lands End , and we saw Los Arco's and Lover's beach. Jen and the boys went with us, and Carter even spotted wild sea lions on a rock. Katey was in her glory here as Lands End was in Pirates. We then arrived at a local beach and spent the rest of the day being hounded by people trying to sell us stuff. The kids had fun playing in the sand and in the waves. That night we went to dinner, and it was Chris's twin Uncle's, Tim and Terry's birthdays. The wait staff sang Happy Birthday to them, and Jim gave them each half of a candy bar... together they made a whole.. it was really funny.

Tues - Oct 21st,
Today was our day in Mazatlan, and Jen's birthday. Jen and I settled on this stone island excursion because nothing stood out to us. The only thing we really liked about it was free drinks! Well, this ended up being the best port. We had a catamaran ride around the harbor showing us shrimp boats and the coast line. Then we had a tractor ride, pretty much a hay rack with bench seating. It took us all thru town and to a private beach resort. It was beautiful. There was about 30 people there, and hammocs lined the building. It was paradise. Free drinks, Free lunch, no vendors hounding you, and waves... HUGE waves. Then we got to go on a horseback ride along the beach. The kids and I thought this was the best part. They even wanted to put Ashlyn on her own horse with a seat belt, but we said NO WAY. It was just amazing. Then we went back to the ship and had dinner with the family. Jim, who apparently had a very good time on his excursion wasnt up for dinner, but he sent his gift for Jen. 7 pairs of socks, each for a different season... ie, halloween, 4th of July, Thanksgiving... Carol loves these silly socks and Jen always makes fun of her. Jen was just cracking up as she opened each present. Again the waitstaff sang Happy Birthday, and I am sure by now they are not believing us about all these "special days".

Wed - Oct. 22nd,
Today was our last day at port. We were at Puerto Vallarta today, and this was the day we went on the Pirate ship. This was the excursion that the kids were most looking forward to. Today was cool, because we got to go with Jen and the boys, Carol and Jim, Aunt Vicki, Uncle Terry, Greg, Aunt B, and Uncle Tim. Blaker got picked to go on stage and had to feed Jen blindfolded. He got yogurt all over her and won a Tshirt. Brandon then got picked to be in the main "play". He ended up being the captain's son and then got kidnapped. He had a sword to his throat and even a "gun" to his head. Then the good pirates came and rescued him and he became captain of the ship. It was really cute, and he won a pirate bandana. We were served breakfast and lunch on this cruise and it was really really good. We got to go snorkling, and played at the beach. The kids got to do a treasure hunt and Ashlyn found the burried treasure, and they got to do banana boat rides. It was an adventure they will never forget. Then when we got back to the ship, Me, Katey, Jen and the boys went back out and went shopping at a flea market... it was really neat. We ended up doing our own thing for dinner and had a really great day.

Thurs- Oct. 23rd,
Today was Gma Ann, and Gpa Wendell's 60th wedding anniversary.
It was another at sea day, and the kids spent most of the day at the pool. We had a really nice coctail party before dinner and had drinks and appetisers. Carol, Tim, Terry and Wendy all gave really nice speeches, and we got pictures taken. It was a really nice time, and Gpa hugged my crying and that totally set me off.. I am such a softy. Then we all went to dinner and they sang to them. Im sure by now they were really tired of singing to us, but we were so proud of them. Tonight was also the chocolate buffet. I stayed in the cabin with Ash, but Chris and the kids went and LOVED it.

Fri- Oct. 24th,
Today was our last day at sea. I think you can guess how we spent the day.. Yup at the pool.
However, I didnt drink a whole lot on the cruise, but today was different. They had these really cool glasses, and Carol wanted a set of 8. So Me, Carol, Jen and Wendy got a round of drinks. Well that turned into Me, Jen and Wendy all wanting glasses too. Well that turned into 3 really happy buzzing girls who were in love with their waiter, who were a little loud and obnoxious, and having WAAAAY to much fun! We started wanting 8 glasses... Well, Carol got 8, Jen got 8, Wendy got 8, and I ended up with 10..... Can you say RUM PUNCH! This was soooooo much fun, and I really am glad I got to have a day of being silly and drinking to much, and not having to worry about it.. after all, we were on vacation and nobody had to drive home.

Sat - Oct. 25th,
Today we had to leave, board a plane... no delays, and go home to freezing cold Chicago.
Goodbye 90-100 degree's in Mexico, Hello cold and windy Chicago. Today was only 43 degrees out. I am ready to go back to Mexico.

Sunday, October 26, 2008

Mexico

We had a blast in Mexico.
I'll update more later, but for now... PICS
Lots of Love,
Shel

Thursday, October 16, 2008

Busy week

I am so excited that Tomorrow we leave for our much anticipated vacation. We fly out first thing in the morning and are headed to LA. When we get there my cousin Ellie and her husband Bob, and their 3 kids will be meeting us for the day. I am so excited that Bran will have Donovan to play gameboys with, and Ashlyn will have Emily and Riley to keep her busy. Katey of course will be gossiping it up with Aunt Ellie. We plan on doing dinner and just chilling out at the hotel, or the beach. It will be nice to let the kids go swim or just play so we can get some catching up, but mostly, I just look forward to seeing the kids play together. Nothing is better to me than watching my neices and nephews and my kids grow together as family. Then through out the day Chris family will arrive at different times. It will be exciting to see everyone trickle in. Chris' cousin Pete is living out in LA in his quest to become a famous director, and we are hoping he will be able to make a visit.

Sat. morning we will get up and have breakfast and then head over to the cruise ship. I am really excited to see their expressions when they see how big the ship is. Chris' said this ship is almost twice as big as the ship he took me on for our 5th anniversary. He also said this will be the biggest ship he has ever been on. This will be a fantastic treat for all.

Sun. is my and Chris' 12th wedding Anniversary. Its really crazy to think that 12yrs have gone by as husband and wife. He really makes my life so complete and I am so proud to be his wife and the mother of his children. I always tell him that all my dreams have come true because of him. Sun. is also our first at sea day. Lets hope none of us get sea sick.

Mon. we arrive at Cabo San Lucas, not sure yet what we are doing here, but I am sure it will be a blast. The weather is supose to be sunny and hot... mid 90's!

Tues. we arrive at Mazatlan. We were supose to go on our dolphin excursion this day but the early bird gets the worm, and our trip was full... so not sure what we are doing this day. The weather is supose to be partly cloudy with highs again in the 90's.

Wed. we arrive at Puerto Vallarta. Here we are planing on going on a pirate adventure. We board a huge pirate ship and go on a 2hr sail where they will serve us a buffet breakfast. Then we arrive at a beach where we get to banana boat, boogy board, snorkel, kayake, sand volleyball and other beach type stuff. Then we get back on the pirate ship where we are searved lunch, and we get to watch a real pirate fight with canon blasts and sword fights... then the real fun begins when they open the bar... Tequilla !!!

Thurs and Friday are at sea days again, and we arrive back in LA on Sat morning.

I will update real soon with pics and tales of our adventures.
Lots of Love,
Shel

Thursday, October 2, 2008

My buddy

Bran Buster Brown,
How do you not look at that gorgeous smile and not fall in love with this boy?
My boy, is the sweetest, loviest, craziest, funniest, most awesome little boy EVER!
My sweet little man has been having trouble with school and I took him into the dr. He checked out his tonsils and said they were huge and scarred. He said that many times kids are misdiagnosed with ADD or learning disabilities when actually, their tonsils are enlarged causing snoring, sleep apnea, and unrestful sleep. So he suggested we go to the ENT for possible tonsillectomy. Upon going to the ENT, we were informed that not only are his tonsils enlarged but so are his adnoids.. so much that the back of his nose is 60% blocked. But thats not the worst of it, the nasal tissue is so enlarged and inflamed that the front of his nose is pretty much blocked off. Add all of it together and the Dr. is afraid Bran's got some serious sleep apnea problems. He wants his Tonsils and Adnoids removed, and a Turbinoplasty (big word for reconstruct the inside of his nose). All I was expecting was the tonsils removed. So I am a little blown away with everything that needs to be done. Im also surprised that I didnt notice him having such horrible breathing problems, but now that I know, things really make sence.
But hopefully this will help Brandon in many ways.
AND he's looking forward to all the icecream and popsicles.

Friday, September 26, 2008

FFF - Silly Faces


Today's FFF
(favorite foto friday) is...
Silly Faces !!!

These are not the best quality,
but Katey and Ashlyn took these by themselves.





Enjoy,
Shel

Tuesday, September 23, 2008

Starved Rock

Sunday we enjoyed a nice brunch and hike with
Jen and the boys. Even Chad and Emma came along.
We had a wonderful time.
Here are some pics of the day.
Enjoy,
Shel







Thursday, September 18, 2008

My girls

My girls, are so awesome.
Kathryn tried out and made the girls basketball team,
And Ashlyn is just growing so big, and is so smart, and looks so much like her sissy.
I just LOVE my girls.
Oakview Jr. Vikings #12



Ashlyn Grace signing I love you, and that's how she does 3