Everyday Life

January 8, 2012

2012-01-08T19:00:00.001-08:00

Yesterday, we spent the day at the Chicago Wolves Game for the Girl Scout Cookie Kickoff. We had a blast. Did some cookie stuff, played some games, had amazing hot dogs, and watched the Wolves kick some butt! The girls had a great time. We (adults) had a great time. And we were all exhausted when we got home.

So, now we are on to selling cooking for the next couple of weeks. Madilyn has set an enormous goal of 2012 boxes. She is willing to work her butt off, so she says. We shall see!

january 6, 2012

2012-01-06T17:49:00.000-08:00

So, we had our first hospital visit today. Steve fell down the stairs on Monday and finally today (Friday) decided he needed to get checked out. He was having lower right back pain. So, to the ER we went. Turned out he fractured a couple vertebrae. And he feel like a complete dipstick for not getting checked on Monday like I suggested. So, we shall go to the neurosurgeon on Monday. Until then, he has some muscle relaxers and pain meds to help him keep comfortable. The ER doctor seemed to think he wouldn't need surgery, but that is up to Neuro.

We are praying for no surgery...and just a lot of resting!

January 2, 2012

2012-01-02T12:33:00.000-08:00

The second day of 2012. It's about 12* and my dear husband took our daughter and his father shooting. Yes, at the outdoor range! They left here with snow pants and winter coats. I'm not sure that by the time they get all the gear on, they will be able to pull the trigger.

Madilyn was super excited to go to the range with her daddy and papa. Papa said he hasn't been shooting in over 20 years. And Madilyn got a .22 pistol for Christmas she has been dying to shoot. I sent the camera. Hopefully, someone remembers to take some pictures!

Happy 2012

2012-01-01T18:05:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!

I hope everyone had a great night celebrating with family and friends.

We spent the evening at my in-laws house. We played card games and had snacks. The girls even sang a little Karaoke. At midnight, we went outside and blew horns and popped poppers. Exactly 5 minutes later, Madilyn wanted to go home...she was tired. She lasted abuot 10 minutes in the car before the snoring started.

We have spent the first day of 2012 in our pj's. And it's been wonderful!

Here is to a healthy, happy new year!

2011-09-26T20:25:00.000-07:00

Go ahead and say it...I am a sucky blogger. I was kind of using facebook for a while as my blog, but they had to go and mess everything there up.

At the end of August, Madilyn started 2nd grade. She is such a grown up. LOL! yes, I realize she is only 7, but she is so ... Madilyn! LOL!

I have been to a few craft fairs trying to sell my cards. So far, I haven't don't great, but I haven't lost money either. I am also trying to get my photography going.

Girl scouts is officially starting this month. And Madilyn is still playing the piano. I love listening to her play. And she loves that she can play too. She's not a big fan when her teacher gives her challenging music...but how else will she learn?!?!?!

I realize this is a rambling of sorts, but that is the only way for you to get caught up on my super exciting life!

June 14, 2011

2011-06-13T22:35:00.000-07:00

Well, so much for blogging more regularly and eating healthy! HA!

The last couple of months have been rough. Starting May 3, I got a migraine and it's not gone yet. I have started some new meds and am hoping that they work. They are a little better, but not gone yet.

I got a job...and lost it 2 weeks later. the reason "not a good fit for the company". What the hell does that mean? I have no idea.

We camped the entire last week and had a relaxing blast.

Madilyn turned 7 on June 10. I can't believe my baby is 7. Where has time gone? She is definitely no longer the 3 pound baby I gave birth to. We didn't have a big party for her this year. But some great friends came through for me and sent her cards.

I have been asked to teach some classes at the Wilmington library. I am excited about this!

I think that is all...I can't remember...my head hurts, remember?

April 4, 2011

2011-04-04T19:21:00.000-07:00

So, tomorrow starts my Healthy Eating! I am excited to get back on track. I am setting my first goal at 50 pounds. I'm excited to get started and I have a wonderful partner in crime, Trisha. She and I are going to do great!!!!

2011-04-02T08:59:00.001-07:00

Madilyn is having her cousins over for the weekend. Hannah, Kaylee, and Madilyn are having a blast. The girls came home with Steve from work last night. We had dinner and they played until way to late! LOL!!!! They were up early and playing like crazy girls! Including jumping on the bed. After a breakfast of scrambled eggs and toast, they are off again. Up the stairs...down the stairs...up the stairs...down the stairs....oy! Wonder which one is going to fall down them first!

Tonight I am going to the Wilmington Library to scrapbook with friends overnight. It is going to make for a long tomorrow, but soooo worth it. Mary, Nikki, Trisha, April...all coming from out of town. Then there are the crazy locals....Mary, Robbie, Katie, Ethel! And I think Aunt Jane is joining us as well. It should be a great time! I can't wait! And that leave Steve with all three girls! bwahahahahahahaha! I'm wondering which girls will be beaten first! LOL!

Annoyed at myself

2011-03-31T21:32:00.000-07:00

So I realized today that I read several blogs a few times a week. And I get annoyed that some of them haven't been updated in almost a month. This shouldn't annoy me...these people don't blog for me. But I love looking at their creations and I love reading about their lives. Now, I come to my blog and realize that if you were following my blog, you too would be annoyed. I update so infrequently! And I blame facebook. I upload pictures there, and update about our lives there. It's sad really! And I said at the beginning of this year that I would do better...ya, right! So here it is, 30 minutes from April first...and I am going to declare to do better once again.

Tomorrow I have an interview for a job! We REALLY need me to get this job!

Madilyn's cousin are going to spend the weekend at our house this weekend.

On Saturday, I get to scrap with some of my bff's. Nikki, April, Mary, Trisha, Robbie, and Katie! I can't wait. Although, Sunday will be a very long day. It's an overnighter at the Wilmington Library. From 6 pm to 11 am. I will be one tired momma on Sunday. But hopefully, I will have to get up bright and early for work on Monday! So if you are reading this, say a little prayer for me!!!

ONLY TWO WEEKS!!!!

2011-03-04T10:42:00.000-08:00

Two weeks from tomorrow. I can't believe it's almost here. I am super excited and have a ton of stuff that needs doing. All little things of course! We are at 120. The most we've had to date. I still have last minute donations trickling in! Now to sort all that stuff. It's fun to look at, but disappointing that I can't add it to my own stash.

If you have friends that are unable to attend, please tell them about this blog. There will be challenges and prizes here too!!!!

New Addition to our family!

2011-03-02T20:17:00.000-08:00

Meet Bailey... She is part beagle, part chihuahua. She is the light of Madilyn's eye! And we love her!

Madilyn's Tonsilectomy

2011-03-02T20:09:00.000-08:00

On February 8, Madilyn had her tonsils and adenoid removed. It was scarier for me than her I think! LOL! She was a trooper. She came home the night of the surgery and ate some salisbury steak. I am so proud of how she acted and reacted during the whole ordeal. And of course, I took some pictures.

March 2...already?

2011-03-02T20:08:00.001-08:00

I have managed to let 2 whole months pass without blogging. You would think that since I don't have a job, I would be blogging everyday! Yeah, ok.

Well, I think I will catch up a bit tonight.

Happy New Year

2011-01-01T19:36:00.000-08:00

Today is the first day of 2011!

I am excited and going into the new year with an attitude of the glass half full. This year has got to be better than last year. My cancer diagnosis and being told I was cancer free. We lost some people very dear to us and they will be missed dearly. I was "downsized" out of my job. And I'm still looking. I did work for 6 weeks at the mall on the Santa set. It was a lot of fun and a lot of work! But well worth it. So...on to 2011. May we prosper in the coming year! May our loives be filled with joy, love and laughter!

I'm a horrible Blogger!

2010-11-08T20:07:00.001-08:00

Honestly, I don't know that anyone looks at it anyway! But I am a bad blogger anyway! I forget about it. Seems that facebook has become my blog these days.

YMCA Overnighter

2010-09-26T19:35:00.001-07:00

Finally Asleep!

Painting Toes

Score!

Hannah

Madilyn

Kaylee

Dinner Time

Rock Wall

Pool Time

Dustin and Jennifer's Wedding

2010-09-20T12:35:00.001-07:00

Dad and Lorry

Dancing the night away
Madilyn with Grandpa and Lorry
Boogie Down
Dancing like a white boy!
Father daughter dance
Slow dancing with mommy
The Chicken Dance
Dancing with Lorry
Madilyn and her new aunt, Jen!
Dollar Dance
Dad and his new daughter!
Dustin and his new daughter
Madilyn and Paige
Passing out birdseed
The Neese's
The whole Henderson Gang!
The ring bearer!
Me with my siblings and dad!
The bride and groom
Steve and Madilyn

First Grade

2010-08-24T06:30:00.001-07:00

I just put Madilyn on the bus to her first day of first grade! I'm sad because my baby is growing up, but I am happy that she loves school!

Have a great day Baby Girl!

Happy Mother's Day!

2010-05-09T09:57:00.000-07:00

I have the best family ever. My daughter is a smart, beautiful, well-mannered little girl, and I am so proud to call myself her mommy! My husband, well, he's just the best!!!!

I miss you momma! Happy mother's day!

2010-05-04T18:03:00.000-07:00

So it seems that I come here when I scrap or when I need to vent...but I guess that is what blogs are for right?

I am having a terrible day! It is one of those days where I feel like crying, but not sobbing uncontrollably...just sitting quietly while the tears roll down my face cry!

I have had this overwhelming urge for about a week to hear my mom's voice. I'm not sure if I'm afraid that I have forgotten what it sounds like or that I just need a good mother/daughter chat. Either way, I want to call her. I want to hear her laugh. Because that's what we did when we talked on the phone, we laughed...a lot. Usually because I was doing something stupid to make her laugh, but still.

As I am typing this, I am listening to my daughter giggle as my dear, dear husband gives her a shower. They are laughing and using silly voices...it makes my heart swell!!!!

So I ask this...How can I be so sad and have my cup runneth over at the same time?

I've been scrapping...

2010-04-30T12:18:00.000-07:00

Prom Weekend

2010-04-26T14:25:00.000-07:00

This weekend I got the opportunity to play prom paparazzi for Paige and Devan. I had a great time and I'm pretty sure they got tired of having their pictures taken. But out of almost 200 photos, I did get a few good ones. Thank goodness for digital! If only the sun would have cooperated a little more!!!

8 years ago today...

2010-04-22T19:28:00.000-07:00

Steve proposed to me. Silly man!! LOL!

So here's the story...

We went to dinner on a random night at TGIFriday's. I always wore my mom's original wedding band and he asked to see it. So I handed it to him and quickly announced that I had to go to the bathroom. When I came back, I asked for my mom's ring back because it was making me nervous that I didn't have it. So he put it on my finger, band side up. When I turned it around, I just about freaked out...it wasn't mom's ring...it was an engagement ring. And it was beautiful! He said something about I could have it if I promised to spend the rest of my life with him! So, I asked if I could have mom's ring! LOL! Then we both laughed and I had both rings!

And I am so glad that I said yes...and that he asked. I love him more today than I did then!

And you know, somehow I think that my mom played a small part in sending him to me. She never got to meet him. He and I were dating, but I had not introduced him to my family when she passed away! So, thanks mommy!

And another month passes...

2010-04-15T20:15:00.000-07:00

Isn't it insane the amount of time that passes and how quickly it goes! There is a lot to catch up on...and I'm too tired to think about it all! Silly huh!?!?!?!?!

March 14, 2010

2010-03-14T20:35:00.000-07:00

I have been having a rough go at it as of late. Feeling a bit sorry for myself I guess you could say. I miss my mom terribly and I am angry! Angry that she is gone! Angry that she didn't see me get married, have my child, be at my bridal shower. I'm especially angry that she isn't here with me while I'm going through the cancer thing. I hate it. And there is no one to blame and I hate that even more. I have been blessed with a wonderful husband and a beautiful little girl and I have the BEST friends a girl could ask for...unfortunately, none of that makes up for my mom being gone. And I am even madder that I have 4, yes I said FOUR, older sisters, and NONE of them have stepped up to be a "mother" figure for me. I know, I'm 30 years old and I should be able to handle it...well, I can't and I'm angry and I'm sad and I'm hurt...and most of all, I want my mommy!

Over a month...and no new posts!

2010-03-12T22:32:00.001-08:00

Sorry about that! I've been crazy busy! I am planning scrap for a cure for the 5th year. And I am still dealing with some residual from the radiation. But I am getting back to my old self (emotion wise).

Anyway- just wanted to check in...and let you all know that things are crazy!!!!

The best husband EVER!

2010-02-01T20:52:00.001-08:00

I know that I have been a Debbie Downer lately. But my husband, he's the best! Yesterday, he spent the entire day cleaning our house. Even mopping the floors. And did laundry. And cooked dinner. And made me lunch for today!

I love him so much!

RIP Grandpa Croy

2010-01-31T18:20:00.000-08:00

I'm so sad today! I'm sad because I lost my last living grandparent today.

I'm even sadder because I won't be able to go to the wake or the funeral. I'll be in the hospital having radiation treament to get rid of this thyroid cancer that has become a huge pain in my ass.

Goodbye Grandpa Croy!

2010-01-30T19:24:00.000-08:00

I was told yesterday that my last living grandparent is dying. He has been unresponsive for 3 days. The only thing keep him alive is his defibrillator. So, today they have decided to have it disconnected. By they, I mean his children, my mom's siblings. I'm saddened by this, obviously because he's my grandfather...but mostly because he is a good man. You see, he isn't my mom's biological father, yet he NEVER treated her any differently. As a matter of fact, when she found out and sought out her biological father, he didn't mind! Yet, she always called him "daddy", right up until the day she died.

I miss her and I wish she could be here to comfort us all through our time of sorrow...but she's not. But, soon, my mommy will have her daddy again!!!

The good, the bad and the ugly.

2010-01-30T19:20:00.000-08:00

The good news...the body scan shows no uptakes. Just thyroid. That means that there is no cancer anywhere else as far as they can tell. YAY!

The bad news...This coming week I will be spending 7 days away from my darling little girl. She can't be near me once I receive the I131 which will probably be on Thursday! So she will go stay with her grandparents.

The ugly...watching us cry at the same time! My little girl has shed more tears than I know how to wipe away and the week hasn't even begun yet!

Can I just say that this sucks!!!

Thanks Rosey

2010-01-24T20:56:00.000-08:00

My friend Rosey shared this with me...I'm not sure if she cam up with it on her own or found it. Either way...it's funny

I wish I was a glow worm,
A glow worms never glum.
'Cos how can you be gloomy,
When the sun shines out your bum?

Thanks for the laugh Rosey!

Craziness

2010-01-24T20:25:00.000-08:00

That is in my head right now!

So on Friday I got a 2 millicurry (sp) dose of Radioactive Iodine I131. It's suppose to make my "inside glow" so that I can have a full body scan tomorrow. There are 2 reasons for the scan. 1. To see if there is cancer anywhere/anywhere else in my body. 2. To see how much of my thyroid was left behind.

Maybe I should back up...

For three weeks in a row, Jan 5, Jan 11, and Jan 18, I had blood drawn. It was a TSH level. It went from 18 to 21.1 to 21.9. Yeah, not moving too fast huh? Well, this is very upsetting to me since I supposedly don't have a thyroid at all. One would think that the level would shoot right up. But apparently, I don't do things the easy way. So, after sobbing to the doctor and the endocrinologist and the doctor's nurse, they finally decided to do something different. So here we are having the smaller dose of I131 so they can decide how much to give for the big dose.

The big dose will probably be somewhere around 125-150 millicurries. I will stay in the hospital for about 3 days. Be on complete isolation! Well, that is not entirely true. Steve will be allowed to visit. But the room will be taped off. He can't cross over the tape and I can't go near him. I think that might be worse than not being about to have visitors at all!

This whole process is not an easy thing! I thought it wouldn't be that bad. It's not like I have to have chemo. Just take a pill, right? RIIIIIGHT!

Madilyn stayed the night with her grandparents on Friday night. So when she came home Saturday night, she wanted to kiss and hug me. Well, she can't kiss me and I can't kiss her. Don't wanna contaminate her. She could hug me, but only for a minute. No sitting on my lap either. So when I tried to explain the situation a little and why she couldn't kiss me, she broke down and sobbed. SOBBED!!!!! And how do you explain to your 5 year old that it is best for all of us. When all I want to do it pick her up and smother her with hugs and kisses and wipe tears. But then my dear sweet husband swooped in and calmed her a bit. After she was calm and wasn't looking anymore, I had to go upstairs and cry my eyes out! OMG! Thought I wasn't going to be able to pull it together. The worst part is that I have to do it all again in about a week.

The bears from April that were in the basket from my friends...they helped a little. I gave Madilyn her's and she gave me mine. She kissed mine goodnight and laid it on my pillow. I found it when I went to bed. She held hers and I blew kisses at them! And tonight when Madi went to bed, she told me that she is going to sleep with that bear "until you are all better mommy!" Again with the tears! UGH!

I love that little girl so much! And I'm doing this for her...because I wanna be around for her. I wanna see her get married and have a baby and go to prom and get a license and everything else that she is ever going to do! And yes, I know how dramatic this all sounds...but right now, I am scared shitless!!!! And there isn't really a whole lot I can do about it.

And Steve...what can I say. He is my rock! I'm not sure why I am surprised...afterall, the man met my entire family for the first time at my mom's funeral! I love him! And he must love me to go through all we've been through and continue to go through!

I love you Honey! And I'm sorry that you have to go through all this! But thank you for standing by my side and making "glow in the dark" jokes! Laughter is a great medicine!

Madilyn got her hair cut...

2010-01-17T18:47:00.000-08:00

Here is the before:

Here is the after:

I have the best friends ever!!!!!!!

2010-01-08T19:50:00.000-08:00

They put together this awesome basket with all kinds of goodies. The tags are gorgeous. The candy is good. There are teddy bears, one for me and one for Madilyn for when I go in the hospital. The are marbles for when I lose mine. And there are googly eyes for when I lose sight of the big picture. There is a candle to see the light at the end of the tunnel. ALL KINDS OF STUFF!!!! And I love each and everyone of them for doing it. It means more to mean than they will ever know. It's not often that I feel as loved as I do right now. All of these people, whom I am lucky enough to call my friends...I am eternally grateful! And I don't know how I can express that to you any clearer. Love you ladies! Here are pictures of a lot of the things in the basket.

Cancer Sucks!

2010-01-08T19:42:00.000-08:00

When I went to the doctor on December 1, 2009, I got the news. The news that I have Stage 1 Thyroid Cancer. ummmm, what?!?!?!

I had a biopsy...it was negative. The University of Chicago Pathologists looked at those slides and agreed...it was negative. I had my thyroid removed.

While I was still in surgery, they did another biopsy...it was negative. So when I went for my follow up, turns out there were all wrong! So now I am off my thyroid meds, I am waiting for my TSH to hit 30 so that I can be admitted to the hospital and have a radioactive iodine treatment. This will attack the little bit of thyroid that is left and hopefully kill any cancer that may be lingering. Also, if I have cancer anywhere else in my body, the scans will show it. So, 3 days in the hospital on COMPLETE isolation. Even have to throw my clothes away. Then another 4 days home alone. Can't sleep in the same bad as Steve. I can't even be around Madilyn. Then for an additional 7 days, I won't be able to snuggle my baby! Only a quick hug. NO KISSES! In 3 months, I will go back and have a full body scan. We shall see. If it's gone, we are done. If it's not, we repeat the above!

Merry Christmas!

2010-01-08T19:31:00.000-08:00

So we made it through the holidays! Madilyn was an absolute joy this year on Christmas! She got her bitty baby twin dolls and Grandma and Papa got her the stroller. Which she just loved. She also lost her VERY FIRST TOOTH! She was eating the apple that Santa left in her stocking!

December 13, 2009

2009-12-16T19:08:00.001-08:00

Today is a big day! We went to see the Nutcracker Ballet. It was a lot of fun and we all had a great time. But it's also Papa's 71st birthday!!!! So then we went to dinner at Lonestar and had them sing to him!

2009-12-16T19:05:00.000-08:00

This is Madilyn's friend Harrison. He is a cutie. He called her the blonde Madilyn because he has a sister named Madeline that has brown hair. When he saw madilyn in her dress, he was speechless. They were so cute.

Madilyn's Holiday Program

2009-12-16T19:00:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was the school holiday program. I am so proud of Madilyn. She was so brave. She sang her loudest and said her lines loud. And she looked beautiful!!!!

Wow!

2009-12-06T20:36:00.000-08:00

A whole month! That is crazy. Things have been super busy! Madilyn has had a double ear infect for the last two weeks and missed several days of school.

We've started girl scouts also. We had our first outing to the Ice Skating ring. It was fun. There were some hickups, but we made it through. And we will start selling cookies in January.

On thursday, I had my full thyroid removed. That was interesting and I'm pretty sure that I don't like it!!!! Not to mention, I HATE being away from Madilyn and I HATE being in the hospital even less. Thankfully, I only had to stay over night.

Madilyn and I are on the mend. Hopefully, Steve won't get sick!

Pumpkin Patch

2009-11-01T18:39:00.000-08:00

We went to the pumpkin patch...in the rain and cold. It actually stopped raining when we got there, but it was muddy as all get out!!!!!! Oh and Hannah was with us. She is Madilyn's cousin.

Happy Halloween

2009-11-01T18:33:00.000-08:00

This year we had a beautiful Butterfly! Excuse me, a MONARCH BUTTERFLY! That is what she said whenever someone said she was a butterfly!

Happy Anniversary!

2009-10-19T19:05:00.001-07:00

7 years ago today, I married my best friend.

Step Out for Diabetes

2009-10-17T17:45:00.000-07:00

We walked today at Soldier Field along the lake. It was nice up until the point that we started walking, then it rained up until we were about 100 yards from the end...then there was sun! GRRRR! But it was worth it. We raised over $700. Plus, Steve, Madilyn and I all walked the WHOLE ROUTE! Almost 4 miles. I am so proud of all of us! We rewarded ourselves by going to the Rainforest Cafe afterward.

Covered Bridge Festival

2009-10-17T16:48:00.000-07:00

Last weekend, Steve and I went to Indiana for the weekend. Kind of a mini get away for our anniversary. We had a great time. We stayed at a beautiful Bed and Breakfast in Attica Indiana called the Apple Inn. It turns out that the owner is a scrapbooker. What are the chances? AND...she does retreats! **gasp** We stayed in the Devon room. It's named after the owner of the local theater. It was cool. There were painting on the wall of Marilyn Monroe, CW Fields, and one of the boys from Abbott and Costello. Okay, back to Covered Bridge... We only made it to Mansfield. And it took the ENTIRE Saturday! We didn't spend an insane amount of money, but we walked A LOT and had a great time! Also, got to smell a lot of goodies. Of course, I didn't allow myself any of those goodies. (and my blood sugars thank me).

10-16-09

2009-10-17T16:44:00.000-07:00

The day at the hospital.

That is what it was.

First was my biopsy. It went ok. The right side didn't really hurt. But the left side was a different story. It hurts to swallow. It hurts to move my head too far. And now we wait for the results, should be the middle of next week.

Then was Bill's lung biopsy. Which actually turned out to not be a lung biopsy at all. Instead it was a chest wall biopsy. Again, we wait for the results sometime next week. He is in the hospital. At least I got to come home.

It's been a while!

2009-10-15T20:14:00.000-07:00

So we've been busy! Lots of stuff happening, but most importantly we've had some health scares.

Tomorrow, I am having a biopsy on my thyroid. They are checking for cancer. The left side of my thyroid will be removed regardless, but the right side might stay in.

Also, my father in law is having a biopsy done on his lung. Something that is potentially life threatening...please pray that everything is okay. With both of us!

Cards

2009-10-04T18:10:00.000-07:00

Here are a few cards I've been working on. One is for Madilyn's Piano teacher. The "give thanks" cards are for Operation Write Home (www.operationwritehome.org). The Red, White, and Blue cards are hero cards, also for OWH.

Another Fall Project

2009-10-03T11:33:00.000-07:00

This is a fall arrangement I made for Madilyn's piano teacher. I hope she likes it.

Spirit Week Day 4

2009-10-03T11:31:00.000-07:00

Today was maroon and/or light blue day.

Spirit Week Day 3

2009-10-03T11:26:00.000-07:00

Today was TieDye/Peace Symbol Day!

Spirit Week Day 2

2009-09-29T15:19:00.001-07:00

Today was sports day. So, we got out the Bears shirt! In addition to the Cheerleader pigtails! LOL!

Spirit Week Day 1

2009-09-29T15:16:00.000-07:00

Today is Dress Up Day at Madilyn's School. They get to dress in fancy clothes or business attire.

Halloween treat buckets for Madilyn's Teachers

2009-09-27T19:06:00.000-07:00

These are the buckets I made for Madilyn's teachers. There is a candle in the middle. Then flowers all around. Then I will add in a few sweet treats at the end.

A few pictures from my birthday dinner

2009-09-14T19:17:00.000-07:00

09-11-09

2009-09-14T19:15:00.000-07:00

Red, White, and Blue Day at Madilyn's School

Happy 30th Birthday to Me!!!!

2009-09-12T20:28:00.000-07:00

It's been a good day!!!

Woke up to breakfast of biscuits and gravy and eggs. Yum. There were birthday cards and a bouquet of balloons also waiting for me. And Steve got me a new Scrapbooking tote!!! YAY!!!

Then we went to Madilyn's piano recital where she preceded to NOT play the piano. She was so nervous. The only way I could get her to play a song was to get everyone to leave the room and ask her to play a song for my birthday. She finally did! And it was great. But when everyone started clapping, she started crying. But it was great.

So, tonight, we went to TGI Friday's for dinner. Jack Daniel's Chicken and Shrimp...OMG! It was great! And a Tropical Berry Margarita. YUM! I haven't had a drink in FOREVER!!!! Steve's mom and dad got me some scrapbooking paper...very cool. Then we came home and we are just chilling. A pretty relaxing day. Noting over the top, but a great day all the same.

The only thing different, is that I am 30 now. And Madilyn was very quick to keep reminding me of that. She kept saying..."mommy, I can't believe you're 30."

We've been scrapping!!!

2009-09-02T20:31:00.001-07:00

August 30, 2009

2009-08-30T19:06:00.000-07:00

We survived the second week of Madilyn being in Kindergarten. She loves going to school. When she gets home and you ask abou her day...she always says it was good. Then I ask what she did, and she always says she doesn't remember. Strange that my 5 year old has demetia!!!

Steve made and canned some Jalapeno relish today. It smelled yummy and tasted even better. Madilyn and I had a pretty low key weekend. Se mostly stayed home. Steve went to the truck and indy races at the Chicagoland Speedway. Madi and I scrapped and watched movies. It was awesome!!!! I love having no where to go...and it doesn't happen often.

I am in full swing raising money for the Step Out for Diabetes. I would like to raise $1000. Not sure if that is going to happen, but I'm gonna try. And Madilyn is going to walk with me! I am VERY excited about that.

Step Out: Walk to fight Diabetes

2009-08-28T19:21:00.000-07:00

Madilyn and I will be walking in the October 17, 2009 walk in Chicago. We have set a goal to raise $1000. We will see how well we do. I have emailed everyone I know, asking for support. And of course, we are walking in memory of my mom.

A little Inspiration...

2009-08-27T20:33:00.001-07:00

As children bring their broken toys
with tears for us to mend,
I brought my broken dreams to God,
because He was my friend.
But then, instead of leaving Him,
in peace, to work alone;
I hung around and tried to help,
with ways that were my own.
At last, I snatched them back and cried,
"How can you be so slow?"
"My child," He said,
"What could I do?
You never did let go."

- Author: Lauretta P. Burns -

My friend Rosey shared this with...and I love it. It fits perfect for me...and probably everyone else too!

Ausgust 23, 2009

2009-08-23T20:43:00.001-07:00

Well, we made it through the first week of Kindergarten. It wasn't easy, and we were all VERY tired, but we made it. And Madilyn loves school. She has decided that she would rather be dropped off at school than ride the bus.

On Saturday, we went to the Scrapbook Expo in St Charles IL. It was a lot of fun. I actually didnt' go too crazy buying stuff, but Madilyn did every single make-n-take that was there. And as usual, she got tons of freebies!

So, here we go...Week 2 of Kindergarten!

Day from Hell!!!

2009-08-18T19:16:00.000-07:00

Today is Madilyn's first day of kindergarten. I took the day off work and she and I will have a great afternoon...YEAH RIGHT!!!

Steve and I took her to the bus stop. We waited and waited and waited...the bus was late, but came. I was completely fine. She got on the bus, sat down, and looked out the window and waved...that is when I lost it. Crying like a baby! Steve even had to take a picture of me crying to "document" the moment.

I came home to a visit from my favorite "Aunt".

I got home and was going to do some work. My boss calls and said that the other office girl was called away on an emergency. Her husband was having chest pains and was rushed to the ER. My boss called and asked that I come in after I pick Madilyn up. Ok, fine!

So I go to the bus stop to pick Madilyn up. And again I wait! Then the bus comes and Maidlyn isn't on it. As I was freaking out on the driver, another driver radio'd that she had a "Madilyn Neese on the bus and wasn't sure where she is suppose to go." Well, this made me a Super Happy Camper! So about 10 minutes later, the other bus came, with Madilyn in tow. Needless to say, I made a call to the school. Before I call them, they were well aware of the situation! Bus drivers must have called and told them I was angry! They have assured me that it won't happen again! LOL!

So, I drive to work...where I find out that the major computer program that I use for work has gone down...so I drove to work for nothing! So, I answered the phone...and that was about it.

Then I get a phone call from Steve. He said he was on his way to the Worker's Compensation doctor. For what you ask...one of his psycho's went off. The guy grabbed a fire extenguisher, sprayed Steve in the face with it, then swung it around and hit Steve in the face. Then he bit him several times. So Steve had to have a series of xrays of his noggin, several blood tests, has to take HIV meds and antibiotics. HOLY COW!!!

Then Madilyn and I went to the PTO meeting at her school. I got to talk to her teacher. She apologized profusely for the bus mishap.

Oh, and when Madilyn got off the bus...she told me her panties were wet. I thought maybe she had an accident (which has happened all of about twice since she's been potty trained). She explained that the water was coming from her backpack. So I take a look, the lid wasn't on her bottle of water. All of the water was now in her backpack...and had been dripping through her dress on the bus. Took less than one day for her homework folder to be destroyed. LOL!!!!

But, tomorrow is another day!!!!

August 18, 2009

2009-08-18T09:28:00.000-07:00

Today is Madilyn's first day of Kindergarten. Steve and I walked her to the bus stop. I didn't cry at all...until she waved at me from the bus. That is when I lot it. Steve even took a couple of pictures of me crying. He thought he should "document the occasion".

I've been scrapping!!!

2009-08-16T17:58:00.000-07:00

Camping...and boating!

2009-08-16T17:55:00.000-07:00

Our favorite summer activities!

Kindergarten Orientation

2009-08-16T17:52:00.001-07:00

OMG! I don't even know how I got through that without any tears. My baby is going to kindergarten. We met her teacher Mrs Kurtz and the student teacher Mrs Street. She loved them both instantly.

Mommy Anxiety

2009-08-03T21:04:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow I have to take Madilyn for her Kindergarten physical. I have mixed feelings about this. One part of me is ecstatic because she is so excited to start school. The other part of me is crying-hard. I am not ready for her to be in school. I am not ready to be the mommy of a kindergartener. I am definitely not ready to hand her over to strangers for 5 days a week and trust that they will watch her and nurture her the way I would, or at least the way I would want them to. Oh, such is life. This will be the first of many heartbreaking events for me in her life, this I am sure of.

Welcome Home Charlie Company

2009-08-02T18:17:00.000-07:00

Today we went to the homecoming parade for Charlie Company of the Illinois National Guard. It was amazing. It was breathtaking the amount of support that these guys and girls received. I don't personally know any of them, but I am grateful that they are willing to fight for our freedoms. God Bless America!!!

Riding a pony

2009-08-02T18:16:00.001-07:00

Madilyn Smims!

2009-08-02T18:12:00.000-07:00

Madilyn can swim like a big girl now! I am soooo proud!!!

Minnesota

2009-08-02T18:09:00.000-07:00

Steve and his brother and dad and some others went to Minnesota. They were suppose to go into Canada via canoe. But, they had horrible rains and thunderstorms. So they same home a few days early and didn't quite make it to Canada.

Pool Picture

2009-08-02T18:08:00.000-07:00

07-19-09

2009-08-02T18:00:00.000-07:00

Today, Paige turns 14. She is a beautiful young lady! We went to Merrillville, Indiana where she and her mom are staying for the National Softball Tournament. We went to Red Lobster for dinner. And then swimming at the hotel. It was soooooooo fun!

Nascar Weekend 2009

2009-07-18T23:06:00.001-07:00

07-09-09

2009-07-18T23:04:00.003-07:00

Pole Day! Madilyn went to qualifying at the track with us. We all had a great time.

July 8, 2009

2009-07-18T22:57:00.000-07:00

WE MET COWBOY TROY!!!!

It was a total fluke. We were at Race Ralley in Joliet. It was rainy and cold and were heading back to the car. And they announced him on stage. Madilyn ran toward the stage. We stayed and listed to him sing, then got to meet him and have our picture take with him. He was awesome. So nice!

Happy 4th of July

2009-07-18T22:50:00.000-07:00

We spent today at the park near the Kankakee river...in the rain. We cooked out and let off a few fire works. The rain let up just in time for the "real" fireworks display.

07-03-09

2009-07-18T22:45:00.000-07:00

I was off work today. YAY! That never happens during the week. So I took Madilyn bowling and Steve joined us for the second game. When we were done, we hit the fireworks stand.

June 28, 2009

2009-06-28T15:59:00.000-07:00

It's been a sunshiney weekend!

Yesterday, Steve, Madilyn and I went to the club to the beach for the day. We spent the day swimming and playing in the sand. I took the camera, but do you think I took any pictures? NOPE! We had a really good time...except for getting crispy fried. I am soooo sunburned. Then when we got home I went upstairs to take a shower and found Madilyn sitting in her bean bag chair in her swimsuit, bathrobe and crocs...Sound Asleep.

Today was the Howard Family Reunion. That would be Steve's mom's family. It was a good time. Visiting and getting to see people we never get to see. And good food! YUM!

Madilyn is staying the night with her Grandma and Papa tonight because Steve is having a Steroid injection in his right hip tomorrow. Hopefully, things will go smoothly. If you could say a little prayer, that would be great!

June 25, 2009

2009-06-25T19:30:00.000-07:00

This has been a sad week for me. I found out that last Friday night, my favorite Aunt, Maxine passed away. She was awesome...crazy, but awesome.

Then a few celebrities...I mean big celebrities passed away. Ed McMahon, Farrah Fawcett, and Michael Jackson. Crazy I tell ya!

Happy Father's Day!

2009-06-21T19:36:00.001-07:00

Steve didn't want to do much for Father's Day! He said he wanted to stay home and relax and watch the race. So, we did. We went to brunch at Coyote Canyon...then home to relax. Later in the afternoon, we watched the race and Steve and Madilyn finished off a whole bag of peanuts. Then dinner. Yummy pork chops that were a non-recipe concoction & mac and cheese.

2009-06-16T19:26:00.000-07:00

Father's Day is such a strange holiday for me. I never know what to buy my husband, dad, or father in law. They never say what they want. You can't just buy them jewelry like they can us! LOL! What to do, what to do! I'm sure I'll come up with something...just not sure what!

Apparently...

2009-06-15T20:58:00.001-07:00

I have the most boring blog ever! No one ever comments! Either that, or I have no friends! LOL!

More Michigan Pics

2009-06-14T19:18:00.000-07:00

Michigan Bound

2009-06-14T19:10:00.000-07:00

Madilyn and I spent the weekend in Michigan at Mary (mlouwho)'s house. We had a great time. On friday night, we didn't get there until late. On Saturday, Mary, Jeff, Madilyn and I went to the John Ball Zoo. We had a great time. Then dinner at Chili's and to the scrapbook store. Before Mary went to work on Saturday night, she and I made a few cards. On Sunday, we went to church then to the beach to play in the sand. The water was sooooo COLD!!!! What are the chances of walking to the shoreline and seeing your name in a heart. It was pretty cool. Mary is the hostess with the mostess! And Madilyn loves Mickey and Henry (the dogs)!

A couple of pictures from Madilyn's Birthday

2009-06-11T19:21:00.000-07:00

The aftermath of Madilyn's Birthday

2009-06-11T11:50:00.000-07:00

After work yesterday, Steve, Madilyn, and I went to Lonestar for dinner. And it was all HER idea. She said she wanted to have Steak for dinner...and she did. They even sang to her and brought her a HUGE brownie sundae with chocolate syrup and Whip Cream! She thought it was the coolest thing. Then off to the movies. We watched "UP!" It was a cute movie. Madilyn was getting a little restless in the middle because of the action of it. But she enjoyed it. Then off to the store to let her pick out her gift. I wanted to get her a camera of her own. But I wanted her to pick it out. So of course it's pink! Anything else would be unheard of! Needless to say, it was a late night (that is what happens when mom and dad work) but we had a great time. And now she is 5...I wonder when she's going to start asking "how many days until I'm six?" UGH!

06/10/2009-Happy 5th Birthday Madilyn!

2009-06-11T11:47:00.000-07:00

So at 5:15 this morning five years ago, I was delivering my beautiful baby girl. I wouldn't get to see her in person for another 36 hours. But she was born, and doing pretty well, and beautiful!!! Steve brought me pictured of here right away, but he wouldn't let anyone else hold her until I did. Thanks honey!

5 years ago today...

2009-06-09T15:55:00.000-07:00

right now, I was FREAKING out!!

You see, I am not suppose to be able to conceive a child. Yet, her I am...the doctors were rushing me to labor and delivery...and I wasn't in labor. NO contractions and only 30 weeks pregnant. I had been admitted to the hospital for cardiac monitoring...my chest hurt. They checked everything. I was about to be sent home, told that the baby was pushing up on my esophogus causing heart burns. Ummm...NOT! Turns out I had developed HELLP syndrome, a life threatening form of pre-eclampsia. My life was in danger and the only way to cure it is to deliver the baby. So at 30 weeks, I was being transferred to Rush University Medical Center. I was checked and monitored and asked about 3 million questions. I was so scared, and all I wanted was to understand what was happening. I received 2 units of blood platelettes. My sister in law took pictures of Steve and I "just in case". The nurses and doctors explained what could happen with the baby "just in case". It was the longest 12 hours of my life.

In about 12 hours from now, my baby will turn 5 years old!

Party Pics!

2009-06-07T19:37:00.000-07:00

June 7, 2009

2009-06-07T19:32:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we had Madilyn's 5th Birthday Party even though she doesn't actually turn 5 until Wednesday! It was a beautiful day. kinda windy and the water was cold at the beach...but it was fun!!!! Hamburgers and hot dogs on the grill, potato salad, baked beans and chips. YUM! Then presents and birthday cake. It was so fun!!!

Madilyn's Birthday Invites

2009-06-01T18:55:00.001-07:00

As usual I made them this year. I think they turned out great!!!

Princess Penelope's

2009-05-31T13:39:00.000-07:00

Madilyn went to a birthdya party yesterday at princess penelope's She had a great time. The girls got their hair, nails and makeup done. They were so adorable.

A few layouts...

2009-05-31T13:33:00.001-07:00

Memorial Day 2009

2009-05-27T20:30:00.000-07:00

On my way home from work on Friday, I saw the most amazing sight. I stopped and asked the homeowners if I could take a picture. Thank you to all those who have fought for my freedom!

KVMS School Picnic

2009-05-27T20:27:00.001-07:00

05-22-09 Today was the picnic for Madilyn's Preschool. She had a blast playing at the park with her friends and saying goodbye to her teachers. Next year, she will start Kindergarten in a different town than her preschool was in. So, here's to keeping old friends...and making new ones in the future.

Ballerina in training!

2009-05-27T20:24:00.000-07:00

Madilyn started taking ballet classes for the summer. She is absolutely adorable in her leotard and she LOVES it. She will be performing at the Strawberry Jazz Fest in Kankakee June 7, 2009. I'm just as excited as she is.

May 27, 2009

2009-05-27T18:07:00.000-07:00

I found out today that Heaven gained an angel. Ruthann, a scrap friend of mine passed away last week. She was only 39 years old. She will be sadly missed.

2009-05-20T20:09:00.000-07:00

On April 20, we went to the Circus at the Kankakee County Fairgrounds. It was a lot of fun. As usual, we didn't get a family photo, but this is good enough! Madilyn got picked out of the crowd to have her face painted for free as a "sample". She's our beautiful Butterfly!!!!