Greetings!

My Christmas was quiet and relaxing. How was ya'll's? Friday after Christmas we made a fast trip to north La. to take our lab (Charlie) to our son's house so they could adopt him. Charlie is a beautiful dog that likes to run. One night as my husband was walking him he got off the leash and took off and crossed one of the busiest roads in BR. It was scarey, we have had a dog get run over on that road many years ago. Someone found him and brought him back after a few hours of freedom. That is when hubby decided it was time to take him some place else to live. Our son has an acre on the bayou in West Monroe. Saturday morning we let Charlie free to run the land and watched as he toured his new home. He was very excited, he ran until his tongue was hanging out. Plus he loves to run with the boys and they have an abundance of boys at their house.

We also got to hang with the grandchildren as Gabe and Marci jumped at the chance of free babysitting and a night out. Here are a few pictures of the newest grandson at almost 2 months old. He was born a little over 6 pounds and has almost doubled his weight in 2 months.

Awesome!

Yesterday I had the pleasure of spending the day with Wesley. This was to be my gift from him for Christmas. His dad dropped him off around 8:30. I had dreams of going to the movie, eating lunch with him and his dad, and maybe a little extra shopping. He had other dreams. First he wanted to go to the museum downtown, a museum over a movie what is up with that? Then I got to thinking about the few last times we went to the museum (this ain't my first rodeo you know). We end up at that "gift store" where everything is drastically marked up. So I asked him "Are you going to just go to the toy store?" He said "Sort of". Don't ya love the honesty of kids? I said "Well if you want to buy a toy I don't mind but I would rather go to another toy store." He was eager to do that. So, off we go to the museum and guess what? The museum is closed on Mondays. Sheesh! You would think they would be open THIS Monday since it is the start of Christmas vacation for school children. Wesley says "Mimi let' s go to the new toy store!" I said "OK!" We make it to the store even though the traffic in Baton Rouge is absolutely terrible. Wesley shops and shops and shops at this small locally owned store. The clerks kept asking us if we needed help, one time the young girl was suggesting items I should buy. I looked up at her (I was squatting on the floor playing with a toy that Wesley was interested in) and said "I understand that we have been here a long time and must be a bother to ya'll." She said "NO, NO!" and walked away. It was beginning to annoy me and was hoping they would leave us alone to make our decision. While Wesley was shopping I was texting his dad making plans for lunch. At last we made our purchases and headed to lunch. Lucas was anxious to see Wesley one more time before he leaves today for Philadelphia to meet the soon to be in laws. After lunch Wesley wanted to go to my house to try out one of his new toys. It is an excavating thing that you chip away at this dried clay to find a dinosaure fossil. It looked kind of cool so he immediately got started and laying everything out on my coffee table. I was busy checking email so I wasn't paying much attention. At one point he stood up and started waving his hand and I said "What?" He said the dust is bothering me. Thinking he meant my unclean house I started to just ignore him then I noticed what he had been working on and he had dust and clay parts all over my coffee table and rug underneath. I asked him what did the directions say and he said "I didn't read them" so I took them and it said you should spread newspaper underneath the project and wear protective eye glasses. OOPS! No harm he was being careful. He finally got tired of the project so I had to clean up but he did run my Swifter all over the house, it may be dirty but it smelled good. A good day with Wesley is always special to me and I am hoping him too. I won't get to see him for quite sometime since I will be gone the next time his dad has him. I sure do miss the times with that kid.

Merry Christmas to my few readers.

Last weekend we celebrated our Christmas with the kids and grandkids. We had bought a tree for the presents to be under but we didn't get around to decorating it so we just have this little bare tree sitting on a small table by the window. I have been thinking all week I need to just throw it out but haven't gotten around to it. Anyway, we are now thinking of how we will handle the Christmas day we have by ourselves and no place to eat out. I asked hubby what he wanted me to cook and he said "Nothing, can't we eat out?" I saw in the paper that Tokyo Cafe is open so I am thinking we can go eat sushi and go to a movie and call it a day. The kids are all going their separate ways. Lucas and Natalie are heading up north to meet her parents. This a big deal for Lucas. I sure hope they like him as much as we like Natalie. Gabe and Marci and kids are renting a cabin and spending a couple of nights away from the hustle and bustle of Christmas. They don't really talk to the boys about Santa so Christmas is downplayed in their family. My goal is to go on vacation with the whole family at Christmas and not do the gift thing. I think everyone is in agreement when the kids get older.
Next Monday (the 29th) I am flying to Pittsburg to meet up with a girlfriend and we are driving back in the car her dad is giving her. We will be spending 2 nights in Nashville seeing the sights. After that trip I will be nervously getting ready for my ski trip. I think about it constantly, wondering if he is as nervous as I am, wondering if he is excited about seeing me as much as I am about seeing him, wondering if I can keep from getting emotional and keep my hands off of him. Adoptees don't like the touchy feel thing from their birthmoms. I have asked a few friends at church to be in prayer for this meeting. My hope is that he will want to continue to get together with me, maybe meet Gabe and Lucas, my mom and my siblings. But most of all I just want to enjoy myself with him and be thankful that I get to see him one more time. I have enclosed some pictures of him. Ain't he cute?

Germs.................

I had this cute little posting in my head but cannot get the pictures uploaded so I will just have to use my words. Last weekend we had Christmas at our house cuz Marci worked in Baton Rouge and they want to spend their Christmas in a cabin with just their family with none of the grandparents around to spoil the kids. What's up with that???
Hubby and I bought a very small tree but never did get around to putting decorations on it. The kids didn't ever notice, they were more concerned with the presents.
On Friday Marci took off for work, Gabe and Mark ran errands and Asher, Adin and I hung out here. After getting Adin fed Asher and I decided to bake a pie. He loves to help pour and stir and I was eager to have his help. He poured all the stuff in as I directed and I gave him the spoon to stir it all together, I turn my back to get the camera and I hear this "ACHOO!" I asked him if he sneezed he said "Yes". So we got an extra special pie. Baking kills the germs and sort of breaks up the mucus, right?
The pie was delicious.
The boys love playing on my dead end street, every now and then we have to check on them and make them come back as they ride the bikes and trikes down the street. I was glad we had nice weather for them to do that.
With our Christmas over I am enjoying the quiet and looking foward to my trips. When is the right time to throw the Christmas tree out?

Tagged

8 Things About Me

8 TV Shows I Watch

1. Dancing with the Stars
2. The Amazing Race
3. Desparate Housewives
4. House
5. Law & Order
6. What Not to Wear
7. House Hunters
8. John & Kate plus 8

8 Favorite Restaurants

1. J. Alexander's
2. Galatoire's
3. P.F. Changs
4. French Market Bistro
5. Parrains
6. Ichaban's
7. Ruffino's
8. Drago's

8 Things That Happened Yesterday

1. Got to have lunch with a favorite girlfriend.
2. Ran into ex-daughter in law and had a pleasant conversation
3. Whittled away at my Christmas shopping list
4. Enjoyed pizza with neighbors.
5. Confirmed ski trip
6. Got fussed at from hubby.
7. Purchased a very small Christmas tree.
8. ????????????

8 Things I Look Forward To

1. This weekend with my family
2. Trip to Ohio
3. Ski trip to Utah
4. Next trip to So. Dak.
5. Time with Wesley, Mark, Asher, & Adin
6. Taking Christmas decorations down.
7. Playing Spoon with the family
8. Weekends

8 Things I Wish For

1. Being debt-free
2. Happiness for my children
3. Health for my family
4. A close/comfortable relationship with birthson.
5. A new house (definitely)
6. Living closer to Gabe and family
7. Spiritual growth
8. An attached garage

8 People I Tag

I don't have anyone to tag, I only read Lita's blog and the Pioneer Woman. Sorry!

Need prayers.

I am sooo excited. My relationship with my birthson has turned a corner. We have actually had a conversation about meeting. He lives in Utah and I LOVE skiing. He has just started skiing and so I asked if we could meet and ski together. He agreed. First he asked where I wanted to go and then volunteered to pay for the lift tickets and food. I am scared/excited/nervous/anxious and would like to get on a plane tomorrow and go see him. Please be praying for this. My goal is to make this a yearly thing, to get to the point that he will want to meet Gabe and Lucas and my mom and siblings, to get comfortable in this relationship (it makes me nervous when I talk to him). He doesn't need a mom at the age of 37 and he already has a mom (not sure what sort of relationship it is tho). But most of all I want this to be an enjoyable time for both of us, no pressure to have a serious talk, just 2 people skiing and enjoying each other's company. Pray that I can be relaxed and be able to keep my emotions in check. Thanks!

Thanksgiving 2008

While I am here blogging I might as well say something about Thanksgiving. Gabe and family were at our house for 10 days. It was very hectic with all the boys. My house is not real spacious so I felt like we were on top of each other many times. The boys are able to go outside since we live at a dead end street and their dad was working across the street from my house. Thankfully I have many many inside and outside toys and of course I "had" to purchase more just to keep them happy. I also have 3 battery powered vehicles for them to drive around but unfortunately only one worked. So, Mark rode Asher around and then when Wesley came over and rode his bike Mark felt the peer pressure to ride his also. Thus leaving Asher to man the only working battery operated vehicle. I bought the boys rakes and shovels which kept Asher very busy. He would tell us every day "I need to wake the weaves." So when Paw Paw was home they "waked" together. He got to ride in the wheelbarrow with Paw Paw and had a grand time.

We have a tradition in our family that on Thanksgiving day the guys play baseball with a ball made of masking tape. I am not sure how this started. But it is funny to watch the guys try to pitch/hit/catch this homemade ball.

Ok, I will bite.

Lita has tagged me and I am suppose to pick the 4th picture on the 4th album and blog about it so here goes. This is a picture of Asher who is 2. He found some stickers and decided to put them all over his face. He is a very serious little boy and it is hard to get a smile out of him so this is the result. He was very proud of all of his stickers. It was one of those quick shots because he moves fast and his mom and I thought it was hilarious that he put all of the stickers all over his face.

Things that I have learned

Even tho I have learned alot in the past 3 weeks I will narrow it down to 5 things:

1. I never ever want to have to raise kids again.
2. I definitely have become quite selfish and like my ME time.
3. If you bake something in the oven and it spills the next time you bake the smoke alarm will go off.
4. Little children are louder than a rock and roll concert at full blast.
5. I tire easier than I use to. What is that all about?

Happy Thanksgiving to all!

In a flash..........

Isn't this a sweet picture? I caught the big boys playing sweetly with Adin, Mark was playing with this toy that played songs and watching Adin's face for any response from his songs he was playing. There was a pumpkin flashlight that he had shining on Adin's face to make sure Adin could see who was playing for him. I couldn't help but capture it on film. I tried to move the flashlight so it wasn't shining on his face but Mark insisted on it being right there.

Shortly after I took the picture Mark (in the red shirt) accidently pushed a button on the toy and it quit playing the songs. In Mark's frustration he picks it up and tosses it because it wouldn't play right. Of course he got in trouble but we fixed the problem after his time out.

ON YOUR MARK...............

On your mark!

At Gabe's house the driveway slopes as you arrive and so Mark and Asher use this little hill to their advantage. They pull/push their little scooters to the top of the hill and then jump on and scoot so that gravity will take over.

Get set!

GO!!!!!!

Wesley turns 8.

Friday was Wesley's birthday. It is beyond my comprehention to believe that he is 8 already. I remember when he was born, it was right after 9/11. He is such a delight to us and has grown so much. When he was born I had this burning desire to make sure he knew he was loved and wanted. I would list over and over the many people that loved him. I had a feeling he would have a difficult road because of the age of his parents. They have done a great job so far. He is a bright kid and well liked by his classmates.
His dad had a party for him Saturday. They had a teasure hunt and hit a piniata and slept in a tent. Not sure if they got too cold to come inside or not. Here are some pictures.

Things on my mind.

A friend of mine owns a Subway restaurant and was shorthanded on Wednesday and asked me if I wanted to help during the lunch hours. I said sure, how hard can it be? Just make a few sandwiches and call it a day. HA! They started coming in at 10:30 for food and finally at 1:00 I literally ran out of there. (I had made a lunch date so I could leave early.) I was in charge of lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, bell peppers, onions and all of that on that end of the bar. If the person was short it was hard to hear them over the little bar thingy so I had to stand on my tip toes and tell them to repeat their order. Several times I put the wrong mustard on the sandwich, one time I squirted too much mayo on there and so I had to scrape off that stuff and start over. Needles to say I won't be applying for a job at the nearest Subway anytime soon. Although I did get to have one of their cookies fresh out of the oven. YUMMY!
I am slowly getting to know my birthson. He is not the greatest conversationalist but of course I don't think I am that good at it either. I keep asking the same questions over and over. I usually get an answer from him sometimes he doesn't respond and that bums me out. Anyway he rarely asks me a question about myself which leads me to think that he just isn't interested. But then he will come up with something that makes me think we are taking baby steps. I have never had to work so hard on a relationship in my whole life. It is never been very hard for me to make friends but this one guy has tested my ability many times. Anybody have any suggestions?

Happy family...

Adin Rex Livingston was born on Wednesday October 29, 2008 at around 3:30. Mark was so excited about his little brother. He said he was going to kiss his forehead when he got to see him and tell his mommy what a little tummy she had. What a sweetie he is. Starting out early giving the compliments to the ladies. Asher was like "whatever". Gabe and I took them to the hospital Thursday night and when Mark rounded the corner and saw his mommy he let out a squeal and ran to her. It was so cute. Then he crawled up on the bed and they place Adin in his lap and he started telling his mommy that the blanket was too hot and he needed to take it off of Adin. But he did kiss his forehead. He pulls his hand out of the blanket and said "Look at his fingers mommy!" (yea mommy hadn't noticed them yet). He said "I want to see his toes!" So they went thru the same ritual with the feet too. Mark will make a wonderful big brother, he is very attentive to him and wants to help mommy.

How cute is this????

Fall has arrived.........

I had great intentions of doing several postings while at Gabe's house taking care of the boys but they took the cord that you use to connect camera to computer and I could not download my pictures. They have the same camera I have and so it did not occur to me that they would need it at the hospital. After all they would be busy giving birth. Right? Makes sense to me but apparently they wanted to download pictures of the baby right away. How selfish is that???? Kidding!

So first day, I actually got to get up before the boys did. I like to fix my coffee and take a deep breath before they wake up so that was nice. Gabe's house is on the bayou of the Ouachita river and there was a beautiful fog that morning. I tried to capture it on camera but it sure looked prettier in person.

October 28, 2008

I got to spend some time with Wesley Sunday afternoon. He put his costume on so I could take a picture. Very scarey don't you agree? I would give him anything he wanted..............oh wait ....... I already do. chuckle chuckle.

Today I am heading to north La. Marci is ready to deliver the 4th grandson. I am anxious to lay my eyes on him and can't wait to see Mark and Asher's reaction to their little baby brother. Pictures will be forthcoming.

October 22, 2008

I am not very good at keeping up with this blog. I think about it writing something. I follow Lita's blog and she is fun to read, she makes it funny. She has turned me onto the Pioneer Woman. She is very entertaining. I was reading her love story and got so wrapped up in it like it was a novel. Unfortunately it came to an end and I miss hearing about her and Marlboro Man's courtship.
Right now we are on baby watch. Marci and Gabe are about to have their third son. Did I mention that I have 2 sons and almost 4 grandsons? How cool is that? Yes I would like a granddaughter but boys are so much fun. Maybe someday someone will have a baby girl but I don't beleive it will be Marci. I think after this one she will be done.
Last night Wesley and I got to attend Suessical the Musical. It was fun. I can't beleive those people danced and sang non-stop for over an hour. I would be wheezing in a heap on stage. Every now and then I would look at Wesley and he was smiling and watching the people dancing so I guess it was a hit. He told me about a month ago that I needed to get tickets so of course I did.
I am working part time for an engineering firm. I have never worked for that sort of a firm before so it is different. I am enjoying not having any of the responsibility other than to do what they tell me when they tell me. I think my hours will be cut to just a couple of days a week. Oh darn. :)

Two Delightful little boys.

This week I had the pleasure of taking care of Mark and Asher in West Monroe. I was excited about the two days I was going to get spoiling them. I wasn't needed until Thursday but I arrived Wednesday afternoon and started my "work". I got to wake them from their nap. Asher is very cuddly after his nap and I was able to partake in that. He has grown up so much from being a toddler to a little boy. He is a little fella and fit right into this little bucket that his mom keeps blocks in. He was sitting in it and yelling "WHA ME, WHA ME!" At first I thought he wanted me to rock him but when I watched him he rocked himself over and giggled. I told him to do it again so I could take his picture.

Mark was watching all of this from his perch. I asked him if his mom wants him sit up there and he said "No but I can do it when you are here." He was quite proud of himself and told me to take his picture and of course I obliged.

Friday night all was quiet at their house and I was feeling quite content and reading my book. Mom and dad were out and I thought I had gotten them down for the night when a sudden thump was heard. I waited thinking it was mom and dad coming home but then I heard little feet running. I came out of my room which is on the other side of the play room from the boys' room. Mark is standing there looking very guilty and he said "Asher is downstairs". (They have a 2 story house). I yelled for Asher and he started yelling "YAMP BWOKE! YAMP BWOKE! YAMP BWOKE!" as he walked upstairs. I said "How did that happen?" He threw up his hands and shrugged "I dunno!" So I go into their room and notice that the nightstand between their beds had toppled over and sure enough the lamp is broke and lying on the floor. Again I ask "How did that happen" in my sternest voice and both of them said "I dunno!" Guess it was a ghost. So I fuss at them and tell them they had better get in bed or I was going to spank them and they quickly crawl under the covers and lay there waiting for punshment. I tuck them in and try my best to look mean and angry and tell them to not get out of bed again and to go to sleep. They both nod with wide eyed fear. I had to quickly get out of there cuz I couldn't keep a straight face. I took the lamp downstairs and put it on the counter so their parents could see their offspring's work first thing when they got home. Mom finally got to the bottom of the story and I am not sure what actually happened but no one got in trouble and dad said he probably could fix the lamp.

I came home Saturday night and am ready for a kid free week.

Speaking of modern technology......................

On the left is a picture of a street in my neighborhood that was littered with branches. Gustav blew in Monday and left much devastation in Baton Rouge. Our electricity went out at around 11:00 a.m. that morning and stayed off for 3 days. It was very hot and sticky in this house. We tried playing cards and the cards were hard to shuffle because of the humidity. If you have never lived in the south I am not sure you can comprehend the humidity down here. I have a gas stove and water heater so thankfully we were able to cook and take hot showers. As I watched the trees being whipped around I wondered how many were going to be able to stand the pressure without breaking. I have lived in Baton Rouge for over 30 years and have seen many hurricanes but that is the worst one I have ever seen. It was scarey. I was afraid that a branch would come thru my window at any moment during the storm. After the storm we walked around the neighborhood and realized how lucky we were, there were many trees on top of houses, well I should say laying inside of houses, many utility poles laying on the road and wires everywhere. Here is a picture of one of the trees uprooted by Gustav. Charlie and I are standing by the bottom that was pulled out of the ground. They gave everyone a curfew and of course it was broken and people were arrested. You could not find a bag of ice if your life depended on it. There were long lines to get gas because not very many gas stations were able to open. Forget about going to a restaurant. No one had electricity. They would tell us that we shouldn't even go anywhere since the street lights were not working. This was the case for a couple of days. It was like living in a third world country. Standing line to get into a grocery store, waiting hours to get gas. Scarey driving. All traffic lights had turned into 4 way stops. People don't know how to do that anymore. You creep out into the intersection and pray no one will come barreling thru on their cell phone and plow into you.

We got power 3 days after the storm but not everyone on our street were not that lucky. At one point you feel guilty cuz you are living in the lap of luxury while your neighbor is miserable in the heat and humidity.

Baton Rouge is slowing healing from Gustav but it will take a while. I have heard that this is the worst BR has been hit since Betsy in 1968. Hopefully it won't happen again.

Modern Technology is the best.

About a month ago I bought my first laptop computer. I have been wanting one but could not convince Stanley that I "needed" one. The old desktop computer is slowly dying and I finally persuaded him to get a laptop. My neighbor was trying to sell me on getting a webcam on the laptop but I didn't see the need for one. He told me all the benefits to it and I could not think of anyone I knew that had a webcam on their computer to talk to. My oldest son and his family came to town and they said they were shopping for a laptop also and decided to get the same one I was about to purchase. All of a sudden it seemed that this webcam thing was a really good idea. I get to see Mark and Asher once or twice a month but seeing them more often was exciting to me. The first time Gabe got theirs hooked up and we were able to talk and see each other was well worth it. As Gabe came into view and I came into view on their computer right next to his dad was Mark jumping up and down squealing at the top of his lungs "I SEE MIMI, I SEE MIMI, I SEE MIMI!" Do I need to tell you how important this webcam has become to me? It was so worth it. Asher sits there and says "Hey Mimi." Last Saturday was Asher's birthday so Stanley and I got on the webcam and sang to him. He was so cute, he just sat there and smiled.
I have this thing I teach my grandsons, when I ask them "Who loves ya baby?" They are suppose to answer "MIMI!" I was able to teach Wesley and Mark with no problem but for some odd reason Asher has teased me from the get go and said "Paw Paw!" And then will grin and watch my reaction. So it has become this joke with Mark and Asher when I say "Who loves ya baby?" They scream "Paw Paw!"
Does it show that I love being a grandmother?

August has arrived................

School started today in Baton Rouge, public started last Thursday. Wesley just called to tell me about his day. He was disappointed that they didn't give any work today. Gee I hope he keeps that attitude. He likes his teacher and says she is pretty and is glad he got to see all of his old friends.

A girlfriend from Florida is visiting this week. Her mom had surgery this morning and she is here to help take care of her. It is weird how all of a sudden we are in this faze of our lives. I am thankful that she wanted to stay here with us.

I have gone on some interviews but nothing that came to anything. I use to work at Pier 1 several years ago and everytime I go in there they ask me to come back. I may end up doing that just for the rest of the year. Not sure if my legs can take all of that walking around. I remember that being a physically exhausting job. We had to empty an 18 wheeler once a week, rain or shine, plus get stuff off the way top shelf. I think things are different now and they said I don't have to work weekends. They didn't say anything about holidays. Didn't want to push my luck.

Marci and the boys came down. We had so much fun. We went swimming one morning. The next morning we took the boys to ride on the carousel. I think they liked swimming the best. Because Mark would not even ride on a horse on the carousel, he just sat on a

bench on the carousel.

I am looking forward to go up to north La. at the end of the month

when Asher turns 2.

Back to the old grind............

It has been awhile since I have blogged. We got home on July 7 and it seems to have taken me this long to get on my feet. I don't seem to have as much energy as I use to and I don't seem to have the drive to do many of the things I use to do. Gee, I sound drepressed but yet I don't feel blue.
I have been job searching. I really want something part time and flexible. I just went on an interview and it was just about everything I want except they only guaranteed 10 hours a week. It doesn't seem worth it to get ready and drive over there just for that. Plus it was a $2 cut in pay and that sucks.
I sent out 8 resumes this week so maybe more people will call. I don't want to go to work until school starts so that I can help with Wesley plus Marci and the boys are coming down next week to swim and I want to be free for that. This is not the first week I have sent out resumes tho, I have been sending a few each week. There were alot of positions that I am qualified for in the newspaper this week.
On another note, a friend downloaded Quickbooks onto my laptop and I am trying to learn that. I am already bored with it.
Hope all is going well with everyone out there in cyber space.

June 25, 2008

I have talked to all the family that is heading this way and they are on the road. I spoke with Mark and he said "I am on my way to South Dakota!" I wonder if he will constantly be asking "Are we in South Dakota?" I sort of wish I was with them but I am enjoying my time alone for now.
Mom is doing well, she ate a good breakfast today. We will be going to the Sr. Center for a yummy lunch. Last night I went to the bar and had a beer with some friends. Some I went to high school with and some I did not. Tonight I will help set up chairs for registration and other stuff.
I am a little concerned with the place we are staying. It seems they have had alot of problems with this guy running this place. I went for my daily walk and I knocked on his door but he did not answer. I am going to go by there later today and have a talk with him about cleaning the place otherwise he may not be getting any money from any of us.

June 24, 2008

Here it is Tuesday and it seems like this week is just dragging by. Maybe it is because I am anxious to see everyone on Thursday and Friday. I am not anxious to leave mom tho. I worry that she will continue to sit in the chair all day long and not exercise. I don't believe I have gotten her to do more than she would otherwise but I worry that they both will get lazier and lazier. So I am torn between fussing at her and getting her mad at me or just leaving her alone. She will start physical therapy on Friday so that is a plus. Her appetite is good and she is eating more every day. She says it sort of hurts to walk but she said it seems more like a sore muscle on the back of her thigh. Hopefully when more of the family comes they can get her moving better than me.

A nice weekend in the hills

I spent the weekend with my sister in Rapid City. I like going to her house because one I love seeing my sister and spending time with her and two her basement is nice and that is where I get to stay. It is like having your own apartment. I have my own bathroom, TV, computer and it is cooler down there during the summer. I love seeing Cammy and the boys and spending time with them. We went to Brandon's baseball game. He is very good. I can't wait for Stanley to watch him. Danny is one of my favorite young men. He is always so polite and I think he likes it when I come to town. I love giving him a hard time. Taylor has turned into such a handsome young man. I can't wait to see where he goes in his life.
When I got home the front door was locked. I thought Mom and Ralph were at the Medicine Rock eating so I drove out there but they weren't there. I drove by the church and then came back to their place. I walked around to the back door thinking they forgot to lock it but it was locked too. I walked around to the front and there was Ralph in his stocking feet asking me if I was lost. He said he forgot that I was coming back. Mom and I fussed at him. Mom is doing good. I am hoping she has her appetite back so I can cook some stuff for her. Tomorrow I need to dust and get everything ready for everyone. Just 4 more days and the gang will start to trickle in. I am so looking forward to seeing everyone especially Mark and Asher.

She's getting better..........

Mom got her sutures out of her incision today and the dr. said she was doing good. In 3 weeks he wants her to start weaning herself from her walker. Next week he wants her to start going to physical therapy a couple of times a week. He said he won't need to see her for 6-8 weeks. He seemed like a good dr. I liked his bed side manner. When mom asked the dr. if he wanted her to get on the table he said "No, just face the table, hold on and drop your pants." The look on mom's face was priceless. She said "For real?" He said "Yup!" It took her a minute to realize he was serious and she did it. It was funny.
Mom got out of the hospital yesterday afternoon. She still does not have an appetite. The hospital sent her home with some orange sherbert and she likes to sip on coke so we are keeping her stocked with that.
I had fun with a girlfriend in Aberdeen yesterday. It was fun to get away and visit and shop.

Life in the fast lane................

Mom is doing so much better but still wants to stay in the hospital. She will be getting her staples out from her hip replacement surgery tomorrow and still feels some nausea other than that she is doing good.
I am going to Aberdeen (this is the big city here in SD) with a girlfriend as she has a dr. appt. and it will be fun to visit with her during the ride. I don't know her very well and just met her last January. Possible I will get to do some retail therapy and that is always a plus in my book.
I am going to go to Rapid City this weekend and visit with my older sister. We plan on getting pedicures and doing girl stuff.

Roots

Main Street

Dakota Sunset Museum

I wasn't sure what to call this posting and didn't want to bore anyone by continuing the saga of how we are all feeling. Which by the way, I am doing well and hopefully mother is too. She is still in the hospital. Last night she sounded much better.
I went for a walk this morning and it is a glorious morning here in good old Gettysburg. The temperature is 60 something and it is clear and a light breeze. Much easier to walk in then the weather in Louisiana. UGH! I came home and opened all of the windows in the place just like we use to do when I was growing up.
As I walk around town (it doesn't take very long to cover most of the town) I think about how anxious I was to escape this sleepy little town and spread my wings to the big city. After living in almost a foreign country (everything about Louisiana is foreign to the average midwesterner and probably most of the other people in the US) I love coming home to this small town. I love the memories here and the people I use to know that are still here and the people that I see when there is a big reunion or celebration in town.
Gettysburg is getting ready for a celebration in a couple of weeks, this little town is turning 125. They are sprucing the place up just as I would if I had company coming to my home. They are painting the curbs, getting new awnings, putting up new signs, repairing the cracks in the asphalt. Every day I see them working and getting ready for their company.
I am proud of my little town where most of my roots are and where my parents now live.

Gettysburg High School

Courthouse

Day three

I am not shaking this virus very well. Now mom has it and I am still not feeling well. I feel horrible about bringing this up here and now she is sick. She is a real trooper tho and said it was no big deal. Poor Ralph, he waits on us going and fetching whatever we want. We were going to grill some steaks for Father's day but we don't feel well enough to eat that. I will try to write more tomorrow.

Day Two

I got all ya'll's emails and this is what is going on so far. It is 11:00 a.m. I am sick as a dog. I have been throwing up since early this morning. I guess I have what Wesley had last week. I am trying to stay in my room so as not to infect them. I was going to cook and clean the bathroom today but I guess that may have to wait. On the lighter side maybe i will lose a few pounds, tee hee.
Mom really has a hearing problem, it seems to get worse. Of course they never think of muting the tv. Sometimes they really holler at each other. But she is getting around pretty good, she did laundry yesterday and fussed at me cuz I fussed at her to sit down. She wants to feel useful so we just let her do what she wants to do.
They are not happy where the recliners are so we are going to have to rearrange furniture again. I need Marci here to tell me a good way to position everything.
The home health nurse came by, I heard her talking anyway. Not sure when she will be back.
Cammy, I definitely agree with your email. Us kids should sit down together and talk to them.
On my way up here I had thought about us doing that. Cammy, can you do the mary kay thing during a lunch?
I hope Brian takes you up on your offer to help. I will try to write later.

Day one

This morning when we got up it was 48 degrees. BRRRRRR! This Louisiana girl is cold up here. The wind is blowing but it is sunny. During my walk this morning I tried to stay in the sun just to keep warm.
Mom and Ralph are doing well. I made some scrambled eggs and toast for them and they were happy. We are getting lunch from the senior citizen's center so that is going to be taken care of.
Right now the home health nurse is here talking to mom and checking her out. Apparently she comes over a few times a week.
I have wiped down the kitchen cabinets, swept and mopped. We are going to move furniture and dust today. Mom wants us to vaccum the front room. We need to place the tv on another wall so all can sit in front of it. Doesn't that sound exciting?
I went by the Buechler Dental Clinic ( I have several classmates that work there) and visited with Sandy, Marsha, and Steve. We made plans to get together. Marsha gave me her nail tech connection so I can get a manicure.
That is about it for the day.

Going home................

Well I made to Gettysburg on Wednesday at about 3:30 and mom and Ralph had not arrived yet. So, I called and they had not even left Aberdeen, it is an hour and a half away. I was starving so I went to get a sandwich. I drove around a little and decided to get a nice cold beer at the Legion and see if anyone was hanging out. But it was too early. I had to get the key to the apt. from Logan's and so I went there and did that. By the time I got my stuff moved in they finally arrived home about 4:30 and they both look real good.
It is cold here, in the 60's and windy and cloudy. The sun finally came out and I guess tomorrow it may warm up. Mom and Ralph seem sort of tired, they are fussy with each other.
I saw 4 dead deer along the highway so ya'll be careful on the way up. They were large deer too, not babies. There is alot of construction near Sioux Falls and in Iowa, the ditches are full of water so if they get much more rain they may be covered. Through Ark. it is 2-lane, if you take hwy. 65 up you might want to avoid that way. Once you get to Missouri tho it is 4-lane.
I will keep ya'll posted on how they are doing.

Home at last.........

We got to Baton Rouge on the 6th of July. The night before we stayed at our son's house so we didn't have to arrive in BR at midnight. It was good to be home but I miss South Dakota and the weather up there and of course my mom. I enjoyed my stay with my parents and hope to do it again in about 6 months.
Since last I blogged everyone arrived in Gettysburg safe and sound and we had a roof over our heads and had a great time. The weather turned cool but it was ok. Mark and Asher loved the parade, they liked being able to walk just about everywhere. We hit the bakery for donuts several times and that is always a hit with the young ones. Mark and Asher loved playing with their cousins and just plain running crazy. I kept asking Mark if he had made to SD and he said "No not there yet!" He was such a delight as was Asher. Saturday night there was a street dance and Mark entertained us by his special moves. We laughed so hard.
Monday we left for the black hills of South Dakota. The kids did Crazy Horse the first day, the second day we all went to Mt. Rushmore and the third Paw Paw, Mark, Asher, McKenzie and I rode the 1880 train. When we got off Mark turned to me and said "Mimi I had fun!" That made it all worth while.
While in Rapid City we were treated to several dinners at my sister's house. The first night my sister's friends cooked for us and it was delicious. What a treat. the second night we got to visit with one of my favorite aunt and uncles. That is always a special treat to see them.
It is good to be home and get back into the swing of things.

On being a Mimi

On May 22 I packed my suitcase and picked up Lucas, Natalie and sweet little Wesley and off we went to Jacksonville, Fla. Lucas had a soccer tournament that started on Friday. It took about 9 hours to get there. There was a soccer game Friday morning at 9 a.m. so Lucas went to that. Wesley and I decided to try out the pool but it rained on us a few minutes into our fun. So, Natalie, Wesley and I headed for Target to get supplies for the beach plus toys for Wesley. Friday night we wanted to see the new movie Indiana Jones and was not disappointed, it was an awesome movie.
Saturday Lucas had an afternon game so we headed for the beach and didn't want to leave. But we did and promised to return. We started talking and decided to leave Jax on Sunday and head for the beaches at Panama City plus we would be half way home. Once we got checked into our hotel in PC we shopped for a boogie board for Wesley and of course Mimi had to buy t-shirts for the grandsons back home. Now it was time to head to the beach, off we go with all of our stuff. The lady at the desk told us that we shouldn't go in the water because of the under tow. We were determined to get out there though. The waves were pretty intimidating to Wesley and we could not get him to use the boogie board in there. It started raining and sent us inside for a bit then Wesley and I decided to swim. This kid never gets tired. By the end of the day I was pooped but Lucas and Natalie took over.
We got back to Baton Rouge on Monday evening and then Tuesday after Wesley baseball game he and I headed to Monroe with some fun with the other grandsons. I brought a slip and slide for entertainment. Wednesday morning the boys hit the ground running. When I walked into their room at 7:30 a.m. they both screamed "MIMI!!!". Ahh it is nice to be loved. But then Asher burst my bubble by saying "PawPaw?" Meaning of course Why didn't Paw Paw come with you. First on the adjended was to try the slip and slide out, they weren't quite as brave as I thought they would be but it was fun. See picture below.










Next they went for the pool. Apparently they are in and out of that all day long. Marci is either putting a diaper on Asher or a swimmer. We finally decided no one was watching and it was ok to just let him go naked. I love getting all 3 boys together and just watching them. They have so much energy. It was an exhausting but fun time.
Next trip is going to be on the 10th or 11th of June. I am heading to South Dakota. Driving by myself and looking forward to the alone time.

May 21, 2008

Good News! I am finished with that job I disliked. YIPPEE SKIPPEE! After the 4th of July I will look for something part time and something I like with people I like if that is at all possible. In the meantime I am heading to Jacksonville, Fla tomorrow for the weekend with my son, grandson and Natalie (son's fiance'). After that I will be taking Wesley to north La. to see his cousins. I am very much looking forward to that. I love to have all 3 grandchildren together so they can play. Speaking of grandchildren, Gabe and Marci have announced they are expecting in November and it is another boy or so the sonagram says. Who knows what will happen between now and then.
After my trip to north La. I am planning on going up to S.D. to viist my mom. She is having hip replacement surgery on June 3 and I am going to help her with that. At the end of June Gabe, Marci, Stanley, Mark and Asher will be joining me in S.D. and then we will do some sight seeing in the black hills. There is an 1880 train that goes thru the black hills and I know the boys will love to ride on that.

April 27, 2008

I understand some of you think I should retire and I agree to some extent. I do like being at home but I do like my pocket change too. I don't have alot to do at home other than scrapbook and cooking and cleaning. The last 2 are just a bit overrated if you don't have kids around. I don't have the opportunity to play with grandkids every day as Wesley is in full time school and with his mom during the week. The other grandkids live 3 1/2 hours away. So, therefore I like to work to keep busy and it gives me spending money in case I want to go shopping or travel.
Having said all of that, I started a new job March 6, it is with a temp. company and at first I thought well I can do anything for 3 months and then I started liking the job and some of the people. They have been real good to me and are wanting me to stay. Unfortunately I have to work 10 inches from someone that is not very pleasant. I have had numerous problems with her and last Wednesday was a nightmare. I talked with my supervisor who gave me no suggestions whatsoever. He did say she is retiring at the end of the year and they would like me to stay but not sure I can put up with 8 months of this person. I asked to go part time and he said no. So, this tells me that this company is not flexible and does not want to work things out. Apparently, I am the 4th or 5th receptionist they have hired to work with her. So, I think I will quit in June. We have a family reunion in South Dakota at the end of June and I have told them I have already made reservations for this. I told them when they interviewed me that I had this planned. I think that is when I will make my exit.
Any feedback will be appreciated. Life is just too short to be miserable in a job.

Basketball Florida Style

Last week we took off for an impromptu road trip. We had sort of planned it but weren't sure how things would go. We woke up really early (3:30 a.m.) and took off for Lakeland, Fla. My niece was playing basketball in the state tournaments and we wanted to see the state playoffs, they started on Wednesday at 5:00 p.m. They were two of the most exciting basketball games I have ever watched. On Wednesday they won by just 2 points, during the game they were either 2 to 4 points ahead or tied or the other team was 2 to 4 points ahead. There was never a time when we could actually relax and say "Ok I think we have this." Then on Friday it was the last game and would determine whether they won state or not. All during the first half of the game we were behind 5 to 7 points. We were screaming and worrying. At the second half we pulled up to tie then got 2 more points and then 3 more, we were 5 points ahead and very excited. About that time the other team got 2 points making the gap not so big. It was 1:00 minute left in the game and we were ahead 3 points. Our girls held them off and at 6 seconds left one of the coaches called time out. Our nerves were shattered. They all get back on the floor and start playing. I am standing there and all of a sudden my brother starts hugging and screaming at me. I guess I missed the buzzer cuz I sure didn't know the game was over. We won by 3 points. The girls were crying, all the parents were crying. It was awesome. Could not have asked for more excitement, surely my heart would not take it, haha.

February 8, 2008

Life can change in a heartbeat. How many of us have heard that? On January 17 I lost my job. I really really liked that job but it wasn't meant to be. The housing market has slowed and since I worked for a residential appraiser it affected us. There was absolutely nothing to do. So, I was off for a few days when I decided to go and see my two grandsons in north La. Their mom was working out of town so I got them to myself. Needless to say, it was a fun but exhausting 4 days. I left early Sunday morning. Before going to Monroe I booked a flight to see my mom in South Dakota. She was going to the doctor and thought maybe she would have surgery. But the doctor told her to see her other doctor. She hasn't been able to walk more than a few feet without having excruciating pain in her hip and leg. She has an appointment with 2 doctors on 2/22/08. Hopefully they will be able to fix any problems she is having and she will be up and moving again. She is depressed because she can't do anything. She told me the other day she hasn't shopped in 2 years. Gee, I would hate that.
While in SD I had a fantastic visit with my older sister, Paula. It was one of the best visits we have had in many years so I am thankful for that.
On another note, I have been able to instant message my birthson twice and he has actually responded. In the past he has ignored any correspondence from me. A year ago he responded to an email but that has been all. So that has been encouraging.
As 2008 progresses it is always exciting to see what path our lives will take. In a couple of weeks the grandsons from north La. will be visiting in BR. Mark called last night to thank me for the clothes I sent and especially the toys I sent with them. He is so adorable and his mommy is teaching him how to be thankful. It is just too cute.

Skiing in Colorado

We did our annual ski trip, this year we went to Keystone, Colorado. We have been there before and I don't remember it being so commercialized. Maybe it had something to do with the fact that we went during the Christmas holiday. We had to go at that time due to the fact that we took our 7 year old grandson, Wesley. He and his dad snowboarded together for the very first time. It was so cute to see him in his ski outfit. He is very agile and did a great job of learning to snowboard. I hope he will want to go again. This year the weather was very cold and windy. Not a good introduction to someone that had never been in that cold of weather before. But he had many layers on and did not feel it at all.
One day I hope that both of my son's families will be able to go and we can have a family vacation. I would much rather do that then spend money on all the toys that they don't need.
The picture of Lucas and Wesley was too hard to resist. When they got their rentals they headed to the slopes and I watched as Wesley copied his dad and told Stanley to quick take a picture.
I love making memories with my family, especially the grandkids.